06/10/2024
Green’s My Favorite Color
I have LOVED the color green since I was a child, even when my classmates thought green wasn't cool. But look at us now—everyone wants to "go green" and "eat greens." It's like green is the new black, and I'm here for it!
In the midst of diet wars and nutritional debates, one thing anyone can agree is the unmatched benefits of leafy greens. Packed with nutrients and low in calories, these veggies are the superheroes of the plant world, backed by generations of wisdom and heaps of scientific research.
But let's be real for a moment. Are we all munching on our greens daily, living happily ever after? Probably not. Many people barely manage to sneak a leaf or two into their burger as their weekly green intake. So, how do we start incorporating these superfoods into our diet? It's a challenge, especially with picky eaters in the mix.
Still, making an effort to include more fresh vegetable greens is totally worth it. The rewards are immense: improved immunity, increased energy, and a reduced risk of diseases.
Luckily, the leafy green vegetables are incredibly versatile and can be added to your meals in countless ways. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Salad Staples: Toss kale, spinach, and arugula into a vibrant salad. Add nuts, seeds, and a zesty dressing for a nutrient-packed lunch.
Green Smoothies: Every morning I blend spinach and kale with some fruit for a breakfast smoothie that's nutritious and delicious. Rumor is that Melania Trump also makes and/or enjoys green smoothies in their oceanfront home in West Palm Beach.
Soups and Stews: Stir vegetable greens into soups, stews, and curries not while cooking, but just before serving to boost color and nutrients without compromising texture.
Green Wraps: Use sturdy greens like collard or cabbage leaves instead of bread or tortillas for a fresh, low-carb option. There are green vegetable tortillas, but why not skip the flour and use collards or cabbage leaves.
Sautéed Greens: Lightly sauté greens with some water (some want garlic and olive oil) for a simple, tasty side dish. I would avoid the oil.
Green Dips: Blend fresh vegetable greens into your favorite dips, like pesto or hummus for an extra health kick.
Crispy Chips: If you insist on 'dry food', you can make your own DIY kale chips seasoned to perfection—for a crunchy, health-supporting snack.
Fermented Greens: Experiment with fermenting greens to create tangy sauerkraut or spicy kimchi.
Green Desserts: Yes, you can even sneak greens into desserts! Try baking them into zucchini brownies or spinach cakes.
Embrace the green life—it's delicious, nutritious, and easier than you think!
Some think of 'green' as money or environmental stewardship (or even a political party, where a VEGETARIAN is running, yet again, as their Presidential Candidate). Those, also, but think green vegetables!
Green’s My Favorite Color. Maybe yours will be also!