Photo by Nicole Franzen; styled by Mariya Yufest

As 2011 draws to a close and we contemplate new (or renewed) commitments to ourselves in the new year, our thoughts inevitably corner one recurring resolution: eat healthier. But that pledge alone isn't going to make most of us jump out of bed on January 1. There needs to be an underlying motivation -- something to put a spring in your step as you move through the kitchen and market. Our advice? Take a trip down the spice aisle and vow to explore new flavors as you improve your diet in 2012. Whether you eat to live or live to eat -- or, most likely, you fall somewhere along the spectrum of those two poles -- spices, herbs, and other seasonings offer benefits that will appeal to you. Not only do spices enable flavor diversity and creativity, many contain micronutrients necessary for optimal health.

Consider the sesame seeds in the Japanese seasoning used in this recipe. If you've had hummus, you know the combination of sesame and lemon is a winning pairing, but these oval seeds also contribute minerals like calcium, copper, and zinc, which aid bone health, among other concerns.

The other obvious benefit of using spices and seasonings? Healthy, delicious food doesn't have to be laborious -- great flavor is just a few shakes away.

Sesame and Lemon Broccoli

Serves 4 to 6

2 pounds broccoli, stems removed, crowns cut into large florets
1 tablespoon Japanese sesame seasoning (gomashio)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

See the full recipe (and save and print it) here.

Like this post? See the Easy Everyday topic from last week: Crispy Cashew Rice Treats.