And they’re refreshingly recognizable.

What exactly is a superfood?

The truth is that superfood isnt really a technical term for which there is a clear-cut, formal definition.

new-super-foods-GettyImages-1443793402

Photo:Tatiana/Getty Images

Heres why pulses, mushrooms, and salmon are getting special attention right now.

Pulses

Whats a pulse, you ask?

(Other types of legumesbesidespulses include soybeans, peanuts, and fresh peas.)

Spiced Rice With Crispy Chickpeas Recipe

Caitlin Bensel

What makes these little guys so special?

She adds that pulses are particularly goodsources of soluble fiber, which helps manage blood cholesterol levels.

Feel free to usecanned, no-salt-added pulses, dried pulses, and dehydrated pulses, Gensler says.

creamy-mushroom-soup-1219din

Jen Causey

is what can lead to GI discomfort.

Mushrooms

Welcome to the superfood club, edible fungi!

Hearty and flavorful, mushrooms are a versatile plant food that deserve a spot in your weekly meal rotation.

Roasted Spiced Salmon Recipe

Greg DuPree

All seafood, including salmon, is a rich source of lean protein.

you could even download theMonterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watchapp!

Findtasty salmon recipesright here, plus moretips for cooking salmonthatll make even fish-haters change their tune.