Eating out well — on the road

 

Road trips can be difficult for families that are concerned with eating real, nutritious, and delicious food while traveling. I have always dreamed of a day when an organic chain would open up and be right there at the travel plaza next to the Bob Evans and McDonalds. Yes, we pack our food – bring healthy snacks, etc. – but even I get tired of this. Crumbs everywhere, my legs surrounded with coolers and bags and every few hours having to dig through the bag so someone can eat. Then, once we land in some small town to visit family, my dinner choices out are often TGI Fridays or Applebees. Fortunately I am finding out that you can find some chain restaurants that are taking some care to what goes into their foods. Not only that, but the desire to eat well is spreading… fast. You can find ways to accommodate your passion for nourishing food, even on the road.

Curried Tomato and Corn Chowder

This is the kind of cooking I love to do during the summer. Finding ways of using up every bit of vegetables from the CSA or farmer’s market can be challenging (when you have pounds of zuchini every week) and lots of fun.

This week my husband was visiting his dad’s farm in eastern PA with the kids. They came back with lots of veggies, including 40 (yes, that’s right, I said 40!!) ears of corn and a bag of tomatoes, as well as a gallon of raw goat’s milk. Great opportunity for a chowder!

Life Coaching for Moms- From Amy in VA

I went to high school with Amy, and after YEARS of not being in touch, we found out that we lived in the same town! I am thrilled she could share with our readers what she has been doing recently and how this has helped her create a more fulfilling life- as a woman and a mother! The great news about her services is that they are done over the phone and she is offering the first ones free! Take advantage- and be sure to let us know how things went!

One morning (and two afternoons) — Mulitiple meals!

 

The other day I realized I had an orange pepper, a few shitakes, a leek and a couple of carrots in my refrigerator. I didn’t have any big meal plan, but knew I had to use them. I have these things laying around from time to time because when I go to the market I pick what looks good, try to get foods of different colors and like to try new things. So, inevitably, some things are left unused and in danger of being tossed- so I come up with something. Or several- as you will read.

10 Americans by Ken Cook of Environmental Working Group-

We all know pollution and toxins are bad for you. But the Environmental Working Group has conducted perhaps the deepest analysis of this issue on the most vulnerable demographic on the planet. Some shocking information in one of the most entertaining presentations of the conference. 

Roasted Beet Salad with Walnuts and Feta

I love beets!  My family, on the other hand is not so keen on them. But since we got a huge bunch from the CSA this week I had to use them.  

Beets are high in folate, manganese, potassium, dietary fiber and vitamin C. They can be beneficial in the fight against heart disease, inflammation, and they have been shown to be especially beneficial  against colon cancer.

What do I do with beans? A Question from Kristin in MD

 

Rinsed after soaking all night- now to the rice cooker.

Chili- I actually used meat this time which I rarely do

Pasta with diced tomato, tofu and beans- I served broccoli on the side

Quick lunch for kids today with left over beans

  Currently, my family has little to no beans in our diet aside from the occasional baked beans in the summer or canned black beans which my children aren’t fans of.  I know that there are wonderful recipes out there in which beans are a main ingredient.  I just have this mental block about the long process of soaking beans before preparing a dish.  Please share any kid friendly, easy to prepare bean dishes that I can start with so that I can add the much needed bean back into our diets.  Thank you.

Garlic Scapes

What is a garlic scape?
A garlic scape is the stem at the top of the bulb. They look like long curly stems with tiny flowers on top. You only get these delicious treats for a short while. In Virginia- we see them in June and I believe they will still be around for a few weeks more.

Swiss chard Quesedilla

 

I love Swiss chard- and with all leafy greens I go through phases of craving one over another. I went through a huge Swiss chard phase and decided to plant some in a pot. I bought the plants already started and grew about 5 of them on my deck. I managed to chop one pot down and use in a green smoothie and on a pizza. They have since regrown and I have added a few more.

The All American and Healthy 4th of July!

When it comes to food, the 4^thof July holiday means hamburgers, hot dogs, cole slaw and ice cream.  There is no reason not to celebrate the holiday with the all of the American foods you like – just choose your ingredients  wisely.