Packing a lunch is a great way to save money and eat nutritiously during the work or school day. With a little planning, you can make it a part of your daily routine. Start by asking yourself a few questions.

Today’s blog will focus on one of the most nutritious plant-based protein and carbohydrate sources: lentils! One cup of cooked lentils is only 230 calories and provides 40 grams of carbohydrates, 18 grams of protein, and 16 grams of fiber.  Lentils may protect against certain types of cancers, heart disease and other health conditions.

While it’s important to exercise often, it can be tough during hot weather. Follow these tips to stay sun safe.

Why should you garden?Gardening is a great way to exercise, relieve stress and grow your own fresh produce. It is also a great form of exercise since you will be bending down to move plants and twisting around to reach for tools. Spending time in nature can also help improve your mental health. While it will take some time to get your garden started, it can eventually provide you and your family with fresh fruit and vegetables at a lower cost than the grocery store. 

Exercise is important for staying healthy and you can do it at home without going to a gym! One no-equipment exercise is the push-up, which helps you build strength in your chest, arms, and shoulders. You don't need special equipment - just a flat surface with enough space to move your body. You can use a yoga mat for comfort, but it's optional. When you do a push-up, focus on feeling your arm and chest muscles working.

Tofu is an important food in many East Asian and Southeast Asian cultures. It is a great vegetarian protein source and is created by pressing soymilk into a solid block. Tofu has a very mild flavor that soaks up seasonings and spices very well. While you can eat tofu right from the package, most people choose to press the tofu of extra water, season with their favorite flavors and cook it to get the tofu a little crispy.

Do you need extra wiggle in your budget? Creating and using a grocery list can help! The less time you spend in a store, the less you’re likely to spend. A grocery list can help you get in and out of the store with the food items you need. First, what do you want to cook this week? Plan out a few meals around your weekly schedule. Next, what is in your cupboards, refrigerator, or freezer? Add to or change your meal plan with these food items. Using what you already have on hand will decrease food waste and save you money too.

Bad weather doesn't have to stop you from getting in your exercise! The next time the weather has you stuck inside, remember these fun ideas to be active at home.  

If you’re planning a holiday meal or potluck, chances are you will have at least a few side dishes at the table. Once everyone has had a chance to dig in, you might have some leftover potatoes, breads, stuffing, and maybe even a few veggies. Using your side dishes as ingredients in other recipes can keep your post-holiday meals exciting. POTATOES Holiday meals are often full of potato options. Mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, and yams are great on their own or remixed into a new dish. Here are just a few ideas to liven up your leftover potatoes:

Repurposing your holiday leftovers is a great way to save you time and money during the busy holiday season. Plus, creating new dishes out of your favorite holiday foods reduces food waste and keeps you from eating the same thing day after day!Many holiday meals include whole birds or roasts, so you may have some meat left over. Luckily, meats are versatile in recipes. Turkey, ham, chicken, beef and pork roasts can all be used interchangeably in…