Food For Thought

Food. Defined in Webster's dictionary as, "something used in the body of an organism to sustain growth, repair, sustain vital processes, and to furnish energy". At the fundamental level food is exactly what Webster's dictionary says it is, "something that sustains life and supplies energy". Just last week I stated that in order to truly love and enjoy food for what it is we must put aside such simple definitions to get a better appreciation for it, so that we can become better "eaters". Food itself takes root in culture, ethnicity, religion, nationality... the list goes on. With that said, today's dish was inspired by the start of the Lent season.

Obviously the primary focus of this dish was designed to abstain from animal proteins. Black-Eyed Peas with Sauteed Spinach and Vegetables over Tortiglioni. This is a Greek inspired dish that contains copious amounts of monoustaturated fats (good fat) and fiber. The primary source of this "good fat" comes from heavy emphasis of olive oil in the dish.

Last week I discussed refocusing our time management skills so that we can devote more time to preparing our food. This recipe was a shining example of just that. Upon returning home from work, after finishing my food shopping, I prepped the entire dish (about 20-30mins). I then proceeded to the gym where I was able to get in a 30min tempo run (one in which I'm sure Max V. would have said I wasn't running fast enough). The exercise served as a great way to refocus my mind in order to prepare me for a relaxing night of cooking. When I returned home all that was left to do was add the ingredients into a pot and sautee the spinach. Once again using simple ingredients (plus large amounts of olive oil) I was able to create a dish that was delightfully filling, seasonal, and healthy. From prep to the dinner table you're looking at 60-70mins. Just as a strong/balanced body comes from time invested, so does a dinner menu.

Please feel free to try this dish yourself by selecting the NY Times link below.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/23/health/nutrition/22recipehealth.html?scp=2&sq=Black-Eyed%20Peas&st=cse

Thanks for Reading,

Brett

Comments

[Kristin Thor Budden]

I have to say, your picture looks 10 times more delicious than the recipe's one!