An Apple a Day Keeps the Doctor Away

Salad Greens are an important part of a healthful diet because they can be year-round sources of vitamin A, vitamin C, and other nutrients. Red and dark green leafy vegetables are generally higher in antioxidants, vitamin B6, and other nutrients than lighter colored greens. Remember, the darker the lettuce leaf the more nutritious it is.

Did you know?

·  Lettuce is the second most popular fresh vegetable in the United States behind potatoes.

·  The average American eats approximately 30 pounds of lettuce each year, which is five times what was eaten in 1900

·  Lettuce is a member of the sunflower family.

Our Choices Matter!

The average food item travels 2,000 miles from where it is grown to our plates. By eating local food, you are enjoying food that was picked or harvested within a day or two. It is fresher and full of optimum nutrients for growing kids and adults alike.

Creating lifelong healthy eaters by connecting the cafeteria to the garden, classroom, and the community

~GIVE IT A TRY AT HOME~

Mixed Green Salad with Oranges, Dried Cranberries, and Pecans

Preparation time: 30 minutes; Serves 6

Recipe on epicurious.com, from Bon Appetit, Nov. 1998

Ingredients:

1 cup plus 3 tablespoons orange juice

6 tablespoons dried cranberries

3 1/2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons white wine vinegar

1 tablespoon grated orange peel

6 cups mixed baby greens

3/4 cup pecans, toasted

3 oranges, peel and white pith removed, segmented

What to do:

·  Bring 1 cup orange juice to simmer in heavy small saucepan. Remove from heat. Mix in dried cranberries. Let stand until softened, about 30 minutes. Drain well; discard soaking juice.

·  Whisk oil, vinegar, orange peel and remaining 3 tablespoons orange juice in small bowl to blend. Mix in cranberries. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before serving.)

·  Place greens in large bowl. Toss with 2/3 of dressing. Divide greens among 6 plates. Add orange segments to bowl; toss with remaining dressing. Top salads with pecans and orange segments.