MEATLESS MONDAYS

One Day a Week Cut the Meat

Albert Einstein once said, "Nothing will benefit human health and increase chances for survival of life on Earth as much as the evolution to a vegetarian diet."

Although Einstein uttered the statement more than half a century ago, the truth of his words is evident now more than ever. A close look at the facts shows that the world's biggest problems — disease, hunger, and environmental destruction — are closely linked to the practice of raising animals for food. With obesity rates at an all-time high and our natural resources dwindling away, the arguments for plant-based eating are getting harder to ignore.

According to the American Dietetic Association, "Appropriately planned vegetarian diets are healthful, nutritionally adequate, and provide health benefits in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases.” That's right: not only is plant-based eating nutritionally "adequate;" it can actually prevent disease!

In the United States alone, more than one million people fall victim to these top killers: heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and other chronic diseases -- all of which have been strongly linked to diets high in animal products.

Meatless Monday Recipe: 

Orecchiette with Edamame, Tomatoes and Ricotta Salata   ( Adapted from The Complete Italian Cookbook ) Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds shelled edamame 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil ½ medium onion, minced 1 pound grape or cherry tomatoes, cut in half 1 pound orecchiette or small shells- multi-grain or whole grain, if possible Ricotta salata cheese, finely crumbled or grated- you can substitute with grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese Salt and pepper 1. Bring 4 quarts water to boil in a large pot for cooking the edamame and the pasta. 2. Add the edamame to the boiling water and simmer for two minutes. Transfer the edamame with a slotted spoon to a large bowl. Set aside. Keep pot of water on the heat. 3. Heat the oil in a large skillet. Add the onion and saute over medium heat until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes and salt and pepper to taste and simmer until the tomatoes soften slightly but do not lose their shape, about 4 minutes. 4. Stir in the edamame. Cook until the beans are completely tender, 2 to 3 minutes. Adjust the seasonings. 5. Bring the pot of water back to boiling and add the orecchiette or small shells. Cook until al dente and drain. 6. Toss the pasta with the tomato-edamame sauce and mix well. Divide among individual bowls and sprinkle with cheese. Serve immediately. Enjoy your Meatless Monday! Monday Motivator: Fall Into Festive Fitness Autumn’s crisp air makes it the perfect time of year for outdoor exercise. Do yard work, take the dog to the park or try a round of kickball or soccer. Add some fun to your routine this week and you’ll be moving in no time! Have a great week and remember keep moving with small steps and have fun!

Best in health always,

Lisa 

LQ WELLNESS

973-383-0955

lisaquinnwc@embarqmail.com

" Smile, breathe, and go slowly." ~ Thich Nhat Hanh