“The luck o’ the Irish!” you hear. But are you really so lucky with the food? Let’s see!

Potatoes

“Boil ’em, mash ’em, stick ’em in a stew!” Purple, yellow, red, sweet, russet. So many different kinds of potatoes, and so many different ways to eat ’em!

Benefits:

Potatoes contain a large variety of nutrients including potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, zinc, copper, vitamin C and B vitamins. They are gluten free (hooray!), full of fiber and can help with blood sugar. Purple potatoes are good for helping to regulate blood pressure. Sweet potatoes can enhance immunity, vision health and weight loss.

Cons:

As with everything, use in moderation. Don’t go overboard. Potatoes are often deep fried, doused in oil and salt which can deplete their nutritional value. Instead, opt for baked, or you can make your own homemade fries.

Cabbage

Red cabbage is different from green cabbage… in more than just color.

Benefits:

Red cabbage contains a more powerful nutritional profile than green cabbage. It helps boost the immune system, can fight inflammation and, when fermented into a great probiotic such as kimchi (both red or green), it helps promote a healthy gut. It also contains even more Vitamin C than oranges!

Green cabbage does contain about twice as much Vitamin K as red cabbage.

Cons:

Again, too much of a good thing could turn into too much of a bad thing.

Corned Beef

Benefits: 

If it is made properly, corned beef can be a good source of protein, zinc and iron.

Cons: 

You can run into problems with a lot of the store bought cuts of corned beef meat, as you can usually find it full of artificial additives, chemicals and lots of sodium (but not the kind you want in your diet).

However, you could opt for a healthier corned beef recipe to make your Irish feast complete!

Happy cooking and…

HAPPY SAINT PADDY’S DAY!!!!! 

It’s spring time… and St. Patrick’s Day in the same month! It’s time to bring out the green! Green shirts, green decorations, green food… wait, what?

Yes, your first thought of green food MAY not be a pleasant one, but let me reassure you: Green is such a delicious color! There are so many great healthy foods and recipes you can make. So when you plan your next St. Patty’s day party (or even just a spring get together) and you want to go all out with color of the season… you’re covered!

• Avocados – A great source of healthy fats, protein and fiber, there are so many delicious dishes you can make with avocados. From smoothies, to brownies, to chocolate mousse, to the ever popular guacamole.
• Broccoli – Raw or cooked, this green vegetable is high in calcium and good for your eyes. Place them on a vegetable tray to serve to guests or serve them cooked with a little bit of sea salt sprinkled on top.
• Cucumbers – This green vegetable is great for hydration and detoxification. Throw some slices of cucumber and limes in some water for a nice hydrating drink.
• Green Apples – Top the slices with cinnamon and you have a sweet and nutritious dish that can help your heart and digestive system.
• Green Cabbage – Cabbage feels like a must-have on St. Patrick’s day. It is also very good for you, giving your body some much needed iron and vitamin C.
• Green Tea – There is more than one type of green tea… but whatever kind, and whether you drink it hot or cold, it boosts your heart health, brain health and helps weight loss. So make a cup, try adding lemon or orange juice for a refreshing burst of flavor… or, if tea is not your thing but you still want the benefits, you can try adding some chilled green tea to ice cream, or make a green tea and mango smoothie.
• Limes – Boost your immunity and enjoy some refreshing drinks (limeade is a favorite) AND dessert. It’s a win win!
• Spinach – A fresh garden salad on a spring day is so refreshing. Toss in some fresh kale for some added antioxidants and detox ability.

Now that we have had our daily dose of fruits and vegetables, it is time for dessert. Have some mint… and add it to your ice cream!

Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

A few other delicious green foods you can add to the list are honeydew, kiwi, green beans and asparagus.