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Posted in RECIPES, Salads

Beet and Apple Salad Recipe

The varied tastes and textures of beets, apples, pistachios, and greens combine with a sweet and sour vinaigrette to make this salad as delicious as it is nutritious.

PREPARATIONINGREDIENTS
PREP 20 min.2 BEETS, SLICED, RAW OR STEAMED
SALAD BOWL1 APPLE, THINLY SLICED
SERVES 41 c LETTUCE
1/2 c PISTACHIOS, PEELED
2 Tbsp HONEY
2 Tbsp WHITE WINE VINEGAR
2 Tbsp DIJON MUSTARD
6 Tbsp OLIVE OIL
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Tear or chop washed LETTUCE as desired.
2. Toss the BEETS and APPLES together
3. To make dressing, whisk together HONEY, VINEGAR, and MUSTARD, drizzle OLIVE OIL slowly into the mixture as you continue to whisk
Posted in PLANT FOOD FACTS

Carrot Facts

Carrots get their bright orange color from beta carotene, an antioxidant that your body converts into vitamin A.

The carrot (español: zanahoria) is an humble root vegetable favored by Bugs Bunny and generations of parents. You can eat carrots raw or cooked. They are weight-loss-friendly and have been linked to lower cholesterol levels and improved eye health. Carotene antioxidants have been linked to a reduced risk of cancer.

Recipe: Carrot Ginger Soup

1 medium raw carrot (60 g)
alpha carotene 2,120 mcg
beta carotene 5,055 mcg
calcium 20.1 mg
calories 25
carbohydrates 5.8 g
copper 18% DV
fiber 1.7 g
folate 11.6 mcg
iron 15% DV
magnesium 30% DV
vitamin A 509 mcg
vitamin E 0.4 mg
vitamin K 8.1 mcg
Sources: Healthline / Medical News Today
Posted in PLANT FOOD FACTS

Nopal Cactus Facts

The nopal is known for high antioxidant, vitamin, and mineral content.

The nopal cactus, native to Mexico, is commonly known in English as the prickly pear cactus (español: nopal ).

Nopales are the pads of the nopal cactus. Sauteed nopales can be added to many dishes, such as salads, quesadillas or scrambled eggs. The sweet and colorful prickly pears, called tunas in Spanish, are delicious just as they are. Just peel and eat. The prickly pear fruit contains the flavonoids kaempferol and quercetin, which are antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.

Recipe: Sauteed Nopales

1 cup raw nopal
calcium 141 mg
calories 13.8
carbohydrates 2.86 g
fat 0.8 g
fiber 1.89 g
protein 1.14 g
sugar 0.99 g
vitamin A 198 mcg
vitamin C 8 mg
vitamin K 4.56 mcg
SOURCE: Medical News Today
Posted in RECIPES

Fried Cabbage Recipe

Tangy and tasty fried cabbage is a delicious menu staple

PREP 10 min / MEDIUM HEAT / COOK 10-12 min / SERVES 4

  • INGREDIENTS
    • 2 c GREEN CABBAGE, thinly sliced
    • 1 Tbsp CIDER VINEGAR
    • 1 tsp WORCESTERSHIRE SAUCE
    • SALT and PEPPER to taste
  • INSTRUCTIONS
    1. Heat OIL to medium heat
    2. Add CABBAGE and stir lightly
    3. Lower heat and saute to desired consistency
    4. Add VINEGAR, WORCESTERSHIRE SAUCE, SALT and PEPPER
Posted in PLANT FOOD FACTS

Cabbage Facts

Cabbage is low in calories and rich in Vitamins K and C

Cabbage is a leafy green, red (purple), or white (pale green) biennial plant grown as an annual vegetable crop for its dense-leaved heads. It is closely related to broccoli and cauliflower; Brussels sprouts; and Savoy cabbage. Cabbage can be eaten raw, steamed, or pickled, as in sauerkraut or kimchi.

Recipe for Fried Cabbage

100 g (3.5 oz) cabbage
calcium 4% DV
calories 25
carbohydrates 5.8 g
fiber 2.2 g
folate 43 µg (11% DV)
iron 4% DV
manganese 8% DV
protein 1.28 g
vitamin B6 0.124 mg (10% DV)
vitamin C 36.6 mg (44% DV)
vitamin K 76 µg (72% DV)
SOURCE: Wikipedia
Posted in PLANT FOOD FACTS

Apple Facts

Apples have a low glycemic index (GI), 29–44, but they are rich in simple sugars like fructose, sucrose, and glucose, 

An apple (español: manzana) is a sweet, edible fruit produced by an apple tree (Malus domestica). Apple trees, which originated in Central Asia. They are cultivated worldwide. Its wild ancestor, Malus sieversii, is still found today. There are more than 7,500 known cultivars of apples, resulting in a range of desired characteristics. Trees and fruit are prone to a number of fungal, bacterial and pest problems, which can be controlled by organic and non-organic means. In 2010, the fruit’s genome was sequenced as part of research on disease control and selective breeding in apple production.

1 raw unpeeled medium apple (100 g) contains%dv
CALORIES82
CARBOHYDRATES13.8 G
FAT0.2 G
FIBER2.4 G
PHOSPHOROUS11 MG2%
PROTEIN0.3 G
VITAMIN B64.6 MG 3%
VITAMIN C6%
Sources: Wikipedia
Posted in RECIPES

Brussels Sprouts Dijon

A sophisticated vegan entree or a tasty side dish.

PREPARATIONingredients
PREP 10 min2 c BRUSSELS SPROUTS
COOK 15 min MED HEAT2 CLOVES GARLIC, FINELY CHOPPED
NON-STICK SKILLET1 1/2 c WATER
SERVES 41 Tbsp NUTRITIONAL YEAST
2 Tbp DIJON MUSTARD
1/4 c BALSAMIC VINEGAR
2 Tbsp HONEY
SALT AND PEPPER TO TASTE
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Wash BRUSSELS SPROUTS and cut in halves
2. Heat skillet to medium temperature, add GARLIC and BRUSSSELS SPROUTS stir lightly, and cook until brussels sprouts are crisp around the edges, about 5 minutes
3. Add WATER and cook until brussels sprouts are soft, 7-8 minutes
4. Whisk together MUSTARD, BALSAMIC VINEGAR, NUTRITIONAL YEAST, and HONEY, and drizzle the mixture over the brussels sprouts.
5. Continue cooking 1-2 minutes until heated through
6. Sprinkle with SALT and PEPPER
Posted in PLANT FOOD FACTS

Quinoa Facts

Quinoa’s gluten-free seeds are rich in protein, fiber, B vitamins, and minerals in amounts greater than in many grains.

Quinoa (/ˈkiːnwɑː/ from Quechua kinwa or kinuwa) Chenopodium quinoa is a pseudocereal, a flowering plant related to spinach and amaranth. It originated in the Andean region of northwestern South America and was first eaten by human beings in the regions known today as Peru and Bolivia around three thousand years ago. The United Nations declared 2013 The International Year of Quinoa because of its nutrient value and potential to contribute to food security worldwide. Quinoa can be sprinkled on salads, added to soups and stir fries, eaten alone or combined with oatmeal and other grains as a cereal. Recipe for Fluffy Quinoa.

1 cup cooked quinoa (185 g)
calories 222
carbohydrates 39 g
copper 18% DV
fat 4 g
fiber 5 g
folate 19% DV
iron 15% DV
manganese 58% DV
magnesium 30% DV
phosphorous 28% DV
potassium 9% DV
protein 8 g
zinc 13% DV
Sources: Wikipedia / Healthline
Posted in RECIPES

Sautéed Asparagus Recipe

A tasty side dish for any meal

PREPARATIONINGREDIENTS
PREP 5 min2 c FRESH ASPARAGUS
COOK 5-7 min MED HEAT1 CLOVE GARLIC, FINELY CHOPPED
NON-STICK SKILLET1 Tbsp VEGETABLE BROTH
SERVES 42 Tbsp LEMON JUICE
SALT AND PEPPER TO TASTE
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Wash ASPARAGUS, leave whole or cut as desired
2. Heat VEGETABLE BROTH to medium temperature
3. Add ASPARAGUS and finely chopped GARLIC clove and stir lightly
4. Lower heat and sautée to desired tenderness
5. Add LEMON JUICE and SALT and PEPPER near the end of the cooking time
Posted in PLANT FOOD FACTS

Brussels Sprouts Facts

Brussels sprouts are low in calories but high in many nutrients, especially fiber, vitamin K and vitamin C.

The brussels sprout (español: coles de bruselas) is a member of the Gemmifera Group of cabbages (Brassica oleracea), grown for its edible buds. The leaf vegetables are typically half and inch to one-and-a-half inches in diameter and look like miniature cabbages. They have long been popular in Brussels, Belgium, and may have gained their name there. They contain kaempferol, an antioxidant that may reduce cancer growth, decrease inflammation and promote heart health. Because of their high fiber content, they promote regularity, support digestive health and reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes. They are very high in Vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting and bone metabolism. The fiber and antioxidants in Brussels sprouts may help keep your blood sugar levels stable. They are a good source of ALA omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce inflammation, insulin resistance, cognitive decline and blood triglycerides. Brussels sprouts can be roasted, boiled, sautéed or baked. They are a good addition to pasta or stir-fries. Recipe: Brussels Sprouts in Balsamic Dijon Sauce.

1/2 cup (50 g) cooked brussels sprouts
calories 28
carbohydrates 6 g
fat 4 g
fiber 2 g
folate 12% DV
maganese 58% DV
protein 2 g
vitamin A 12% DV
vitamin C 81% DV
vitamin K 137% DV
Sources: Healthline / Wikipedia
Posted in PLANT FOOD FACTS

Brazil Nuts Facts

Brazil nuts are rich in healthy fats, selenium, magnesium, copper, phosphorus, manganese, thiamine, and vitamin E.

Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa) (español: nuez de Brasil) is a South American tree in the family Lecythidaceae. Among the claims for Brazil nuts are that they may support thyroid, heart, and brain function, and reduce inflammation.

WARNING: Individual intake should be limited to one to three a day because excessive amounts of selenium have been linked to increased risk of diabetes and prostate cancer.

1 ounce (28 g) Brazil nut
calories 187
carbohydrates 3.3 g
copper 55% RDI
fat 19 g
fiber 2.1 g
magnesium 33% RDI
manganese 17% RDI
phosphorous 30% RDI
protein 4.1 g
selenium 175% RDI
thiamine 16% RDI
zinc 10.5% RDI
vitamin E 11% RDI
Sources: Wikipedia / healthline
Posted in PLANT FOOD FACTS

Black-eyed Peas Facts

Black-eyed peas are rich in fiber, iron, folate, potassium and Vitamin A.

The black-eyed pea (español: guisante de ojo negro) (Vigna unguiculata), also called black-eyed bean, cowpea or southern pea, is an annual plant from the pea family (Fabaceae) and is grown for its edible legumes. Black-eyed peas get their name from their appearance. They’re cream-colored with a little black speck that resembles an eye. Although their name would make you think they’re a type of pea, black-eyed peas are actually beans.

Black-eyed peas have high levels of dietary fiber, which helps to promote regular bowel movements and improve digestive health. They are high in iron and in folate, a B vitamin needed to make normal red blood cells. Low levels of folate can cause anemia. Black-eyed peas are rich in potassium, a mineral that helps keep your blood pressure levels at healthy numbers and lowers your risk of heart disease. They are surprisingly high in vitamin A, with more than one-fourth of your daily vitamin A needs in one cup. Vitamin A helps maintain healthy skin and mucus membranes, and it produces the pigments in the retina of the eye. They are a great addition to stews, soups, curries and salads. They can also be a perfect side dish, or they can be mashed into a dip.

1 cup of black-eyed peas, cooked
calcium 211 mg (21% DV)
calories 160
carbohydrates 36 g
fat 0.6 g
fiber 8.2 g
folate 210 mcg (52.5% DV)
iron 1.9 mg (10.6% DV)
magnesium 86 mg (22% DV)
niacin 2.3 mg (11.5% DV)
phosphorous 84 mg (8.4% DV)
potassium 690 mg (19.7% DV)
protein 5.2 g
riboflavin 0.2 mg (11.8% DV)
thiamine 02 mg (13.3% DV)
zinc 1.7 mg (11.3% DV)
vitamin A 1305 IU (26% DV)
vitamin B6 0.1 mg (5% DV)
Source: Dr. Axe
Posted in PLANT FOOD FACTS

Jackfruit Facts

Claims for jackfruit are that it may help regulate blood sugar, protect against disease with antioxidants, prevent skin problems, and promote heart health.

The jackfruit (español: yaca) (Artocarpus heterophyllus), also known as jack tree, is a species of tree in the fig, mulberry, and breadfruit family. Its origin is in the region between the Western Ghats of southern India and the rainforests of Malaysia. Jackfruit is a common ingredient in South and Southeast Asian cuisines. It is available internationally canned or frozen and in chilled meals as are various products derived from the fruit such as noodles and chips.

1 cup sliced jackfruit
calories 155
carbohydrates 40 g
copper 15% DV
fiber 3 g
magnesium 15% DV
manganese 16% DV
potassium 14% DV
protein 3 g
riboflavin 11% DV
vitamin A 10% DV
vitamin C 18% DV
Sources: Wikipedia / healthline
Posted in PLANT FOOD FACTS

Guava (Guayaba) Facts

Among the claims for guavas are that they improve heart health, blood sugar levels, painful menstruation, digestion, and skin.

Guava (español: guayaba) is a tropical fruit cultivated in many tropical and subtropical regions. Psidium guajava is a small tree in the myrtle family, native to Mexico, Central America. Guavas are typical Myrtoideae, with tough dark leaves and white flowers with five petals and numerous stamens. The fruits are many-seeded berries. I had just moved to Guadalajara, Mexico, when I tasted my first guayaba. I was hooked. When ripe, the guayaba, or guava, is very sweet and delicious, peeling, seeds and all. Just wash and eat it like an apple. They are also made into a popular candy called ate. (pronounced ah-tay). Guayabate is one of my favorite sweets.

1 raw guava (100 g)
calories 63
carbohydrates 14.32 g
fat 0.95 g
fiber 5.4 g
sugars 8.92 g
vitamin A 624 IU
vitamin C 228.3 mg
Sources: Wikipedia / healthline / MedicalNewsToday
Posted in PLANT FOOD FACTS

Zucchini Facts

Particularly high in Vitamin A, zucchini also contains a variety of minerals, antioxidants, and other vitamins.

Zucchini and Fennel Saute Recipe

Zucchini (español: calabacita), also known as courgette, is a summer squash in the Cucurbitaceae plant family, which includes melons, spaghetti squash, and cucumbers. It can grow to more than 3.2 feet (1 meter) in length but is usually harvested when still immature — typically measuring under 8 inches (20 cm). Although zucchini is often considered a vegetable, it is botanically classified as a fruit. It occurs in several varieties, which range in color from deep yellow to dark green. Zucchini is delicious raw or cooked. Since the skin of the plant contains high levels of antioxidants, it is best served unpeeled. Zucchini can be grated, sliced, or stuffed. It is delicious boiled, steamed, grilled, baked, broiled, or breaded and fried. It is a healthy ingredient in salads, soups, and breads, and a tasty addition to many favorite dishes. Zucchini contains a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Cooked zucchini is particularly high in vitamin A. It is rich in water and fiber, promoting healthy digestion. Zucchini’s fiber may increase insulin sensitivity and stabilize blood sugar levels, potentially reducing risk of type 2 diabetes. Zucchini may lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and other risk factors for heart disease. It contributes to healthy vision and may lower risk of age-related eye conditions.

1 cup sliced zucchini (113 g)
calories 19
carbohydrates 4 g
copper 8% DV
fat 0.4 g
fiber 11 g
folate 8% DV
magnesium 10% DV
manganese 16% DV
potassium 8% DV
protein 3% DV
thiamine 5% DV
vitamin A 40% DV
vitamin B6 7% DV
vitamin C 14% DV
vitamin K 9% DV
Sources: healthline

Posted in PLANT FOOD FACTS

Blackberry Facts

Blackberries are rich in fiber, manganese and Vitamins C and K. They are credited with improving brain and oral health.

The blackberry (español: zarzamora) is an edible fruit produced by many species in the genus Rubus in the Rosaceae family. The taxonomy of the blackberries has historically been confused because of hybridization and apomixis, so that species have often been grouped together and called species aggregates. Blackberries are delicious just as they are with no more preparation than washing. They make a delicious and healthy addition to smoothies, fruit salads, or green salads.

With a Glycemic Index (GI) of 25 and a Glycemic Load (GL) of 4, blackberries are an excellent food for weight loss and diabetes control. There is promising ongoing research that indicates blackberries fight cancer and help prevent heart disease. The leaves are rich in tannin and have antibacterial properties. They have been used medicinally since at least the time of the ancient Greeks. They are made into an astringent tea which is used to relieve sore throats, mouth ulcers, diarrhea and thrush.

3.5 ounces (100 g) of blackberries
calcium 29 mg
calories 43
carbohydrates 9.61 g
fat 0.49 g
fiber 5.3 g
folate 25 µg
iron 0.62 mg
magnesium 20 mg
mangnese 0.9 mg
niacin 0.646 mg
phosphorous 22 mg
potassium 162 mg
protein 1.39 g
riboflavin 0.026 mg
thiamine 002 mg
zinc 0.53 mg
vitamin A 214 IU
vitamin B6 0.03 mg
vitamin C 21.0 mg
vitamin E 1.17 mg
vitamin K 19.8 µg
Sources: Wikipedia / healthline
Posted in PLANT FOOD FACTS

Beet Facts

Beets are low in calories and a source of many nutrients, including fiber, folate and vitamin C and contain nitrates and pigments that help lower blood pressure and improve athletic performance.

The beetroot is the taproot portion of a beet plant, usually known in North America as the beet. It is one of several cultivated varieties of Beta vulgaris grown for their edible taproots and leaves (called beet greens). Beets can be served raw or cooked in a variety of ways. The greens are edible too, and can be added to a salad or cooked and served as a side dish.

Recipe for Beet and Apple Salad.

3.5 ounces (100 g) cooked beets
calories 44
fat 0.2 g
fiber 2 g
folate 20% DV
iron 4% DV
magnesium 6% DV
manganese 16% DV
phosphorous 4% DV
potassium 9% DV
protein 1.7 g
vitamin B6 3% DV
vitamin C 6% DV
Sources: Wikipedia / healthline
Posted in PLANT FOOD FACTS

Bay Leaf Facts

Bay leaves or the essential oil derived from them have been shown to help prevent candida, heal wounds, potentially fight cancer and aid digestion.

The bay leaf comes from an evergreen tree of the Lauraceae family. The baby leaf is delicately fragrant with a bitter taste. It is most commonly used in the dried version of the whole leaf when cooking. The leaf should be removed from the dish before serving. Bay leaf is an ingredient in many favorite dishes around the world. It brings to mind the tantalizing smell of Italian food cooking. It is used in cooking for a distinctive, savory flavor for soups and stews. It is an ingredient in a cologne known as bay rum, and can also be found in cosmetics, soaps and detergents.

They are used for diabetics due to evidence they can help manage blood sugar and lower cholesterol. This herb is also antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, and while further research is needed to confirm the efficacy, it may help treat dandruff, muscle and joint pain, and skin infections.

1 Tbsp (2 g) crumbled bay leaf)
calories 5.5
carbohydrates 1.3 g
fat 0.1 g
fiber 0.5 g
iron 4% DV
manganese 7% DV
protein 0.1 g
vitamin A 108 IU
Sources: Dr. Axe
Posted in PLANT FOOD FACTS

Basil Facts

Basil is anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant. It helps prevent diabetes. It is used to reduce pain and fever, combat stress, and boost the immune system. It fights cancer and protects blood vessels and liver.

Basil is a culinary herb of the family Lamiaceae (mints). Basil is used in cuisines all over the world. Depending on the species and cultivar, the leaves may taste somewhat like anise, with a strong, pungent, often sweet smell. Basil is used as a fresh herb in recipes all over the world. It is an essential ingredient in many Italian dishes. Basil is also used to create perfumes, household cleaners and in dental-care products.

1 cup of fresh basil
calories 2
manganese .24 mg (12% DV)
vitamin A 56 mg (24% DV)
vitamin C 4 mg (8% DV)
Vitamin K 88 mg (108% DV)
Sources: Wikipedia / Dr. Axe
Posted in PLANT FOOD FACTS

Barley Facts

Barley is rich in fiber, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. It improves digestion, and can help with weight loss and blood sugar levels. It lowers cholesterol and helps prevent heart disease and cancer.

Barley, a member of the grass family, is a major cereal grain grown in temperate climates all over the world. It was one of the first cultivated grains, going back as much as 10,000 years. Barley has been used as animal fodder, a source of fermentable material for beer and certain distilled beverages, and a component of various health foods. It is used in soups and stews, and in barley bread. Barley grains are commonly made into malt in a traditional and ancient method of preparation.

1/4 cup uncooked dry hulled barley
calories 160
carbohydrates 34 g
copper .025 mg (11% DV)
fat 1 g
fiber 8 g
magnesium 61 mg (15% DV)
manganese .9 mg (45% DV)
niacin 2 mg (10% DV)
phosphorous 121 mg (12% DV)
potassium 250 mg (6% DV)
protein 6 g
selenium 17 mg (25% DV)
thiamine .2 mg (20% DV)
Sources: Wikipedia / Dr. Axe