What is Mediterranean Month? Mediterranean Month is celebrated throughout May. The Mediterranean Diet, though, has powerful nutrition and awesome flavors that deserve attention all year long. Just as important to good health in the Mediterranean is a unique lifestyle that emphasizes an appreciation for food, its enjoyment and fresh air. Foods Central to the Mediterranean Diet Olive oil, zucchini, tomatoes, fresh basil and rosemary, artichokes, crusty bread, fish, shellfish, red wine, pasta, feta cheese, garlic, olives and more. Lifestyle Behaviors Central to the Mediterranean … [Read more...] about Mediterranean Month – A Time to Eat Healthfully!
Need a Simple Flavor Boost? Try Dried Spices & Herbs!
Easy Additions Let’s face it…bland food is not very exciting for anyone. The good news is that a simple sprinkle can make things better. In fact, dried spices and herbs can add fabulous flavor and great nutrition to your favorite dishes. Flavors to Try Being adventurous with food is a great approach for everyone. Here are a few shake-on options to sample: 1. Ground cinnamon goes deliciously with hot or cold cereal or a baked sweet potato. Sprinkle it on. 2. Ground cumin jazzes up a breakfast egg and cheese burrito or a lightly buttered ear of corn-on-the-cob. Sprinkle and … [Read more...] about Need a Simple Flavor Boost? Try Dried Spices & Herbs!
Seasonal Pick – Strawberries!
NC Strawberries are Here! In NC, strawberry season arrives in May. Just think of all the opportunities to include a sweet treat like fresh, local strawberries in your meals and snacks - it is definitely a long list. Adding strawberries is truly a smart idea, for flavor and great nutrition. Nutrition Features of Strawberries The simple truth is that strawberries 'rock' for good nutrition. One cup of berries cut into halves provides 3 times the daily requirement for vitamin C + 3 grams of fiber + health-enhancing antioxidants + only 50 calories. By anyone's standards, this is one very … [Read more...] about Seasonal Pick – Strawberries!
Grocery Shopping 101: Fruits
Why Fruit? Good nutrition is all about enjoyment and variety. Fruit is a crowd pleaser as it offers variety, healthy carbs, fiber, vitamins, minerals and water. A big bonus in fruit is the natural sweetness as well as an abundance of antioxidants. These natural plant elements can strengthen all your health and help guard against heart disease, high blood pressure, cancer and inflammation-- a sweet deal! Grocery Store Tips 1. Enter the store with a list of at least 3-5 fruits for your shopping cart. Choose 2 fruits that are in-season and then add 1-3 more colors to the mix. Remember, … [Read more...] about Grocery Shopping 101: Fruits
Grocery Shopping 101: Vegetables
Why Vegetables? Good nutrition is all about variety. Vegetables are a 'must-have' for variety, providing carbs, fiber, vitamins, minerals and water. The bonus in vegetables is an assortment of health-enhancing phytochemicals. These natural plant elements can strengthen your immune system or help prevent chronic diseases -- very important! Grocery Store Tips 1. At the very least, fill the top-front section of your shopping cart with vegetables. Include several colors, and mix-n-match the fresh, canned and frozen. They all count. 2. Try a new vegetable every shopping trip. Perhaps it … [Read more...] about Grocery Shopping 101: Vegetables
Seasonal Vegetables = Smart Choices
What's in season now? Fields of vegetables are growing strong in Monterey County's Salinas Valley of California right now. It is a sight to see -- spinach, lettuces, fennel, artichokes, carrots and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower stretch for miles on end. Why is seasonal a smart choice? Seasonal produce is a great choice for satisfying flavors and top-notch nutrition. Shop for the abundance from California as well as the local region of North Carolina. It's a wonderful way to appreciate what America's agricultural areas are doing for us every single day. … [Read more...] about Seasonal Vegetables = Smart Choices