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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Kale & Bean Soup

I’m still happily making soup for my main meal. I like ones with lots of veggies and beans.  The secret really to most good soups is the stock you use as your base.  Kale & Bean Soup is very similar to Easy Tuscan Bean Soup, but today I’m choosing to use a good chicken stock and have added kale, potatoes, and fire roasted tomatoes.
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