Fresh Succotash

Succotash originated from Narragansett Native Americans living in the area now known as Rhode Island. The name is derived from a Narragansett word meaning “broken or boiled corn kernels.” Native Americans introduced succotash to struggling colonists in the 1600s.

Happy 4th of July to all my fellow Americans! Today is the perfect time for a historic fresh vegetable side dish originally shared by Native Americans in the 1600s. Succotash is a highly underrated dish made with fresh sweet corn kernels, squash, onion, tomatoes, and lima or other beans. I remember enjoying it as a child with summer meals. Many Americans consider it a southern dish, but there are variations of the dish across the country. Now in modern times you can personalize the seasoning blend to be Greek, Latin, or Cajun. For example, you could use a green bell pepper or a red one. Today I am adding green beans, red bell pepper, cumin, and a jalapeno pepper. You can add whatever beans you have. Nearly every version has lima beans included but sometimes with the addition of other beans. I recommend using fresh vegetables in the summer if available except for the lima beans. You may use frozen lima beans defrosted.

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The Best Vegetarian Chili

It’s Lent and time for meatless meals, but this dish is really a spicy treat anytime of year. I’m really loving Muir Glen’s fire roasted tomatoes lately and am basing this dish on 3 cans of their crushed tomatoes.  Add peppers and chili with loads of beans and corn and you’re almost there. Today I’m trying vegetarian burger crumbles and with all the bright bold roasted tomato flavor it’s a winner. Adjust the spices to meet your family’s tastes. Need meat? Use low-fat beef or ground turkey.

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Healthy Diet: Health Benefits and Risks With Low-Cost, Nutritious Beans

Beans are such a healthy addition to your diet. Because a 1/3 cup of cooked beans  contains around 80 calories, no cholesterol, lots of complex carbohydrates, and little fat, they are a nutritious ingredient in your recipes. They have lots of vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins and potassium. Beans are low in sodium and high in fiber which promotes digestive health and relieves constipation. Eating beans may help prevent colon cancer, and reduce blood cholesterol (a leading cause of heart disease). The complex carbs and protein help manage diabetes by releasing a slow, steady source of glucose. This prevents sugar spikes associated with simple carbs. Read More