Why Cooking is Hot

I'm always impressed by the number of young people who are regular shoppers at Daisy Mae's Market at Findlay Market. Not only do these young people buy bananas, apples, and other easy-to-eat fresh produce, but they also buy jicama, eggplant, fresh basil, and more. They're definitely interested in eating healthy, cooking, and making food fun.
However, the young people aren't alone. I've noticed a renewed interest in cooking across all ages in the last few years---and this includes my own renewed interest. Maybe it's the economy since it's definitely less expensive to eat at home than go to a restaurant. Maybe it's a general trend toward "cocooning" or  increased awareness about relationships between diet and good health.
I know we're influenced at our house by all the inspiring cooking shows on television. Any time we want to watch, we can find Anthony Bourdain traveling all over the world and sharing his culinary experiences or Barefoot Contessa whipping up something that looks delicious. When we want a dose of competition with our cooking, we cheer for Man vs. Food or the Iron Chef. I'm sure all of these non-stop food shows have definitely encouraged more people to get into the kitchen.

For me personally, I credit much of my renewed interest in cooking to Google. Yes, we have plenty of cookbooks, old recipes, and handwritten notes that we often use as our cooking resources. However, I find the easiest and quickest way to come up with a dinner idea is by putting a few words in the Google search window.  For example, I thought today I could stop by Kroeger & Sons and pick up some sausage. I've also had a craving for sweet potatoes. I entered "sausage" and "sweet potatoes" in the Google search window and came up with this: Oven-roasted Sausage and Sweet Potato. Looks easy, includes lots of vegetables, can be prepared ahead of time. Bingo! I'm a cook!
I'm interested in hearing what inspires you to spend more time cooking. Leave a comment and we'll all learn something new.

Healthy Foods from A to Z

We've reached Day 12 of our 12 Days of Healthy Foods. We began with "A for Apple" so it's only fitting that we end with "Z for Zucchini." Zucchini used to be considered just a summer squash, but these days we're able to enjoy this versatile vegetable year-round.

Zucchini is rich in health benefits and is a good source of manganese, Vitamin C and A, and dietary fiber. Research has shown zucchini has possible anti-cancer effects, is good for heart health, and may help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol. Because zucchini is also an anti-inflammatory, it may be helpful for asthma and arthritis sufferers. The dietary fiber found in zucchini also helps regulate the digestive system.
Zucchini is one of the easiest vegetables to grow in a home garden. Without too much attention, a few plants will yield enough zucchini in the summer for your family and a bunch of your neighbors. For this reason, it seems there are hundreds of zucchini recipes to try...This Zucchini Tomato Casserole might be a good place to start. You can get some free zucchini today (1/16/11) at Daisy Mae's Market at Findlay Market with your $15 purchase.
I hope you've enjoyed our 12 Days of Healthy Foods and that you remember a few of the nutritious tips we've learned. Since we've only touched the tip of the iceberg with 12, I hope you continue to explore other foods and keep healthy eating as one of your resolutions throughout all of 2011.