open the mind.

leslie — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:10:43 +0000

Yesterday, I mentioned that I have always seen cooking as a natural partner to health. I also believe health has a second, possibly more important partner: an open mind.

I could never experiment in the kitchen if I wasn’t open to new flavors. I’d feel hypocritical if I claimed to be health-conscious, but wouldn’t give any and all healthy foods at least one chance.

Without that sense of adventure, I might never have:

Eaten seaweed – this is dulse, and it is amazing. Packed with salty flavor and so, so good for you. I’ve got more sea veggies on my grocery list for next week.

Downed drinks the color of grass – this is berry flavored Amazing Grass and almond milk. I thought it was just ok; I was out of greens that day, and I have the samples to use up, so it was useful.

Bought chia seeds – I thought people were crazy when I first saw these pop up. But these little seeds are versatile and fun to experiment with – recipes to come!

Created a beautiful dinner even when I wasn’t in the mood to cook. This took me 6 minutes to throw together, and it looked and tasted beautiful.

An open mind has taken me through three separate long-term stints abroad. It’s taken me through two changes in my college major. It’s taken me through my first insane year as an “adult.” And it has taken me from the pickiest eater to the boldest. I’m thankful for it.

Do you have an open mind when it comes to new foods? What are some of the “stranger” things you’ve tried?

thankful thursday.

leslie — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 15:00:11 +0000

I’m thankful that I’m willing to try new foods.

I’m thankful that vegetables are my favorite food group.

I’m thankful that fats don’t scare me anymore.

I’m thankful for recently rediscovered chocolate European memories.

I’m thankful for yoga (no surprises there), and for muscles I didn’t know I could have.

What are you thankful for?

the whole plate. » dulse

open the mind.

thankful thursday.