Considered one of the tastiest of the beans, fava beans have been consumed for over 6000 years. Although they require more preparation than most other beans, they are filled with both flavor and nutrition. Fava beans, also known as broad beans or horse beans, were originally cultivated in the Mediterranean or Asia Minor. These green [...]

Herbs and spices have been around since our ancestors early days. I have sometimes wondered how early humans figured out how to use certain parts of trees or plants to obtain specific benefits. Fortunately, we are the beneficiaries of their experimentation. Herbs and spices are used as flavor enhancers and home remedies; they have even [...]

Spring is here and summer is around the corner. Maybe you have noticed a few extra pounds around the middle and are embarking on a new exercise routine. Perhaps you have decided to train for an event like a long distance swim, 1/2 marathon or century ride. What you consume and when to fuel your [...]

I have to say that I am so excited this time of year. Each new day, a different tree or shrub is flowering and the garden is teeming with new life. However, with all this new growth comes the dreaded pollen making many allergy sufferers hibernate indoors with their windows and doors closed. It is [...]

Artichokes have been prized vegetables since ancient times. In some societies, only men were allowed to consume artichokes, which were considered aphrodisiacs. Fortunately, this prohibition has been lifted and all can now enjoy these flower buds. Artichokes originated from the Mediterranean area. The name “artichoke” is derived from the Italian for “pine cone” due to [...]

Daffodils’ yellow heads are blooming, days are getting longer and asparagus is now coming into season! You can tell that asparagus is part of the spring crop as prices slowly come down to more appealing levels. Spring is also the time when asparagus is most flavorful. Asparagus, a member of the lily family along with [...]

Most of us probably only think of mustard as a condiment, but actually the leaves, seeds and stems of the mustard plant are all edible. The seeds are used to spice Indian and other foods, to make the condiment mustard and to produce mustard oil. The stems can be cut finely and sautéed or added [...]

Considered a vegetable, but actually a fruit, avocados are rich in health-promoting compounds. Avocados are in the same family as cinnamon and bay laurels. Native to Central and South America, they are also called alligator pears. There are three main categories of avocados that originate from and thrive in different regions; the West Indian, Guatemalan [...]

In the past while doing my produce shopping, I sometimes felt that I opted for the same vegetables all the time—spinach, carrots, kale and broccoli. So the urge would strike to try something new that was not part of my normal repertoire. Such inspiration occurred a few years ago after returning from Italy and sampling [...]