Health for Life cooking in November

Cornbread Stuffing

This stuffing is made with home made no oil cornbread and is loaded with onions, celery, and carrots along with just the right holiday seasonings. My Uncle Ron, who is the only member of my family who really gives me grief about my eating habits, actually complimented me on this dish a couple of years ago when I had the family over for Christmas dinner. It's also been well received in my holiday cooking classes for the past two years.

Festive Mashed Potatoes w/No-Chicken Cashew Gravy

Winter squash is what gives this dish of mashed potatoes it's orange glow. Because of the color, it turns an other wise low micro-nutrient food, such as a white potato, into a more festive and nutritious one. Top it off with No-Chicken Cashew Gravy and YUM! So creamy and delicious!

Steamed Brussel Sprouts w/Avocado Dip

I know very few people who like brussel sprouts. But I'm convinced that it's because of the way they are cooked. When these little gems are steamed to perfection they are tender and delicious and are one of my most favorite vegetables. I have to admit however, that I prefer them much better with this avocado dip than by themselves. And that's a good thing because when you add a fat, such as avocado, to your vegetables it can increase the absorption of those fat soluble phyto-nutrients by up to 10 times!

Cranapple Salad

As soon as cranberries are available, I start having this delicious salad for breakfast. Cranberries are high in anti-oxidants and phyto-chemicals but are very bitter and hard to eat on their own so I've added some sweet apples and a few dates to sweeten. Then a few fresh spinach leaves to add a festive look and increase the nutrients even more. Then some chopped walnuts to increase the nutrient absorption and add some omego 3 fatty acids. Once you try this salad, you'll be hooked too!

Non-Dairy Pumpkin Pie w/Whip Cream

MMMMM! I love pumpkin pie. And I don't feel a bit of guilt when I dig into a slice of this very healthy vegan version. This pie is sweetened 100% with dates and there is no tofu, no eggs, and no fuss. The thickening component of the dates is what give this pie it's firm structure. Top it off with a non-dairy whip cream and you will never miss your old time favorite.

And there you have it! Health for Life cooking for the holidays. The dates for this months classes are Wednesday November 3 and Tuesday November 9. Hope to see you in class.

April