FIRST KITCHEN BLOGS

The big new today is the Government health agencies (USDA and HHS) have issued new Dietary Guidelines for 2010.

That’s great, but how are we doing on the old ones?  I like their thinking – if we couldn’t meet the old ones then, lets make some even more restrictive ones and see how that works!!--NOT  

Seriously, we all probably need to make some improvements in our eating – and get out and get moving.  

The new guideline emphasize eating more plant-based foods and cutting down on some of the fat and sugar in our diets.   That is good advice, but lets be reasonable - don’t forget to enjoy what you are eating. 

We believe at First Kitchen we do practice a balance of incorporating healthy eating with enjoying food- that includes sharing the fun with family and friends.  

Here’s a recipe that would make the writers of the new guidelines proud.   And it tastes really good!  So get out and pick some of the those herbs your planted and get cooking!

Garbanzo, Feta, and Tomato Salad

Makes 3 cups

1 15- ounce can garbanzo beans, drained (about 1½ cups)

¾ cup diced fresh tomatoes (or grape or cherry tomatoes, halved)

¼ cup finely chopped green onions

½ cup crumbled feta cheese

1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley (and/or basil, oregano, thyme)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon red or white wine vinegar

Salt

Pepper                  

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, salt and pepper.

In a medium bowl, place garbanzo beans, feta, tomatoes, green onions and herbs; pour oil and vinegar mixture over salad, tossing gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate until chilled. Serve.

If you have been buying those fresh packaged herbs at the grocery store, a great way to save a lot of money—grow your own. 

If you have a foot of deck space you can have an herb garden- well, at least pot or two.  We’ve planted some basics like basil, rosemary, thyme, sage, mint and chives.  There are many other types of herbs so, if you are feeling creative, experiment with some others.  You’ll just have to keep an eye on them and water occasionally if it hasn’t rained.  Just clip what you need and viola… fresh herbs for cheap!  

Fresh herbs make everything taste so much better.  Add a sprig of mint to your iced tea or lemonade, or to mixed fresh berries and melon.  Basil and tomatoes are a must.  For example, use your fresh grown basil on our easy Caprese Salad- with local tomatoes from the farmer’s market. Or add the basil to your favorite pasta dish.  Grilled chicken with rosemary and or thyme adds a whole new dimension to the same old chicken breast. 

Enjoy!