Tips and Recipes to Help You Lighten Up Your Menu for Early Spring Dining
All winter long, my sturdy cast iron pot serves me well as I prepare heavy stews and soups. But with the advent of spring, the stew pot is packed away and out comes the wok and saucepan as I turn to lighter fare for family dinners.
Going meatless is one way to trim some ‘weight from the plate’, and when it comes to preparing delicious meals, the first items that I load up my pantry with are versatile root vegetables. As well, organic onions, peppers, and celery are among the ingredients sure to put the “spring back in your step,” as grandma use to say.
Also prized are budget-friendly pulses and grains rich in vitamins and minerals along with protein, potassium, and dietary fibre. They are low in fat and calories, yet provide a satisfying alternative to traditional meat dishes. (Studies have shown that cutting back on meat can help to reduce the risk of stroke, heart disease, cancer, Type 2 diabetes, and obesity.)
Pulses and grains also contain antioxidants which help to ward off various types of body invaders. So go ahead and lighten up with these favourite recipes! You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to serve meatless meals that your family will love. Recipes serve four to six people.