Wait a minute – you can actually EAT parsley?

I know, I know, it’s usually a garnish on your plate which you quickly push to the side. But wait…this little garnish is a powerhouse of nutritional goodness.

Compared to Broccoli, a cup of chopped parsley has more potassium, folate, calcium, and nearly nine times the vitamin A.

Ok, you’ve got my attention but what the heck do I do with this stuff?

Chop and add to spaghetti, pizza, soup, and stews. And of course let’s not forget my fave – a smoothie. Here are two:

Super Easy Peasy Veg
8 oz of V-8 juice (I like the spicy hot kind)
1/4 c. chopped parsley – work your way up to a full cup if you don’t usually add greens to your juice/smoothies.
Blend well and enjoy!

Orange ‘licious
one orange, peeled
1/2 c. pineapple
1/4 of a banana (these are great frozen when they’re too ripe to eat, then grab a chunk out of your freezer bag)
1/2 c. greek yogurt – plain or vanilla (I like fage) OR use 1/2 c. almond milk in plain or vanilla
handful of ice to make it as thick as you like
water as needed to blend or you can use some of the pineapple juice but you want pineapple in its own juice not with syrup
1/4 to 1/2 c. chopped parsley – work up to a cup or use a couple of tablespoons of chopped parsley and a handful of spinach or butter lettuce.

Your body will thank you and you can start your day feeling great!

A pear a day, keeps your body humming

Pears are just as good if not better for you than apples.  According to the Environmental Working Group, one pear has more fiber, potassium, and folate – and less pesticide residue – than one apple.

So mix it up this year, take a pear with your lunch instead of the usual same old apple.

Peary Goodness Smoothie
1 pear, core cut out
1 apple, cut into quarters, seeds removed
handful of spinach (tiny handful or few leaves if you’re new to green smoothies)
1 c. water (if you’re a green smoothie lover)
or
1 c. apple or grape juice (if you’re new to green smoothies. If it’s too sweet, use 1/2 c. water and 1/2 c. juice. then gradually work your way to just water, no juice).
or
1/2 c. vanilla greek yogurt and little water to blend as needed
ice to thicken
blend well

Enjoy!