Eat Your Veggies!

“Regardless of how broccoli is prepared, peeling the stems is the secret to even cooking and tasty broccoli.”  Marian Morash

When was the last time you made a healthy salad and everyone clamored for the recipe?

I have given them to you for food, just as I have given you grain and vegetables.. (Gen. 9:3, NLT)

We all know that eating vegetables is a healthy thing to do!  We also know that more than likely, we’re not eating enough of them in our daily diets.  I’ve chosen a salad that features the pretty, green tree-like vegetable called broccoli.

The name “broccoli” comes from the Latin word brachium, which means “branch,” or “arm.”  Americans have grown it in their gardens for less than 100 years.  The first commercially grown broccoli was grown and harvested in New York, then planted in the 1920′s in California.  This vegetable is highly recognized for its anti-cancer nutrients.  It is a cruciferous vegetable and member of the cabbage family, which is helpful in preventing certain types of cancer.

Broccoli is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, folic acid, iron, and calcium.  It also contains some important phytochemicals, such as beta-carotene, indoles and isothiocyanates.  Phytochemicals prevent carcinogens (cancer causing substances) from forming.  They also stop carcinogens from getting to target cells and help boost enzymes that detoxify carcinogens.

When shopping for broccoli, choose bunches that are dark green.  Good color indicates high nutrient value.  Florets that are dark green, purplish, or bluish green contain more beta-carotene and vitamin C than paler or yellowing ones.  Choose bunches with stalks that are very firm.  Stalks that bend or seem rubbery are of poor quality.  Avoid broccoli with open, flowering, discolored, bud clusters and tough, woody stems.   I always buy organically grown broccoli knowing it’s grown without pesticides and herbicides.  However, organically grown broccoli just plain tastes better!  This salad is colorful and will delight even your “picky” eaters.

Prayer Power
Father, we continue to be thankful for the overflowing bounty of wonderful, healthy foods that You have given to us.  Thank You for Your grace as we become obedient to follow You with our whole hearts!

Link of the Day
Broccoli Salad

Blessings on you as you continue to incorporate more healthy vegetables in your diet.

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