As suggested in the video, visit Organic.org or click here for the "dirty dozen" vegetables and fruits that retain the highest levels of pesticides when grown conventionally. That way you can make more informed choices in the produce aisle. Besides the ick factor, there are many reasons to avoid conventionally grown produce and livestock entirely. For one, the synthetic fertilizers used create an eco-nightmare when the runoff drains into our oceans. The fertilizer pumps up the algae, cuts off oxygen, and creates dead zones that can't sustain fish and sea creatures at all. For another, conventional farming relies on fossil fuels for fertilizer and transport, the carbon foot print is huge.
In terms of conventionally raised meat, well, where do I begin? How about with hormones, antibiotics and utterly cruel and disgusting conditions on huge factory farms that have contributed mightily to our contamination issue (e coli, salmonella) and our disconnect from nature. Major ick factors. Smaller, diverse farms that utilize sustainable and humane practices eliminate these problems almost completely. Click here or visit Humane Farm Animal Care (http://www.certifiedhumane.com) to learn more and look for their "Certified Humane" labeling to find sustainably raised dairy, meat and poultry. Few of us can afford to go green all the time in this economy, but small changes here and there count, and often they taste better. A win-win. Enjoy your healthy choices!
Broccoli in Lemon Sauce
1 head of broccoli
1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon, about 1 tablespoon
1/4 teaspoon salt
dash of Tabasco OR pinch of ground black pepper
Separate broccoli into florets, steam until tender about 11 minutes. Meanwhile mix together oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper sauce, if using in a serving bowl. Gently mix in broccoli when done. Without the Tabasco, any kid will eat this, and a few even like the spice.
Green Beans with Dijon
1 pound of green beans
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Steam green beans until tender, about 12 minutes. Meanwhile mix together remaining ingredients in a serving bowl. Stir in green beans and coat. May be served hot or at room temperature. Add a couple of red potatoes and use grainy mustard for a nice light lunch.
Chicken with Soy and Lime
4 chicken thighs (or legs or 12 wings)
Juice of 1 lime
1-2 tablespoons soy, preferably low sodium
1 pinch salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Heat oven to 400 degrees. Place thighs in bowl, mix with soy and lime. If possible, let marinade for a bit, maybe 30 minutes. Place on sheet pan, skin side up, and season, if desired with a pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper. Cook until crisp and golden brown about 35 minutes. Serve with a whole grain and those yummy vegetables. Fabuloso on the grill.
WIne choice: La Spigola from Sicily. This brings a lot of distinction for only 10 bucks. Great pair for salads or any vegetable dish.
