31 Days of Healthy, Happy Holidays New tips for more joy and less stress this December Holidays got you stressed? Bury your inner Scrooge with these delightful to-dos of fun, food, friendship, and more. Trying even a few of them throughout the holiday season will ensure your December is filled with happiness, health, joy, and inspiration. Consider them a gift from us to you. December 1: Seek Icy Thrills Winter activities such as skiing, ice-skating, sledding, and tubing aren't just great calorie burners, they're exhilarating. "The speed and fresh air give you a sense of elation that you just don't get with many other workouts," says Robyn McKay, PhD, a positive- psychology researcher at Arizona State University. December 2: Belt Out "Santa Baby "Singing is linked to stress reduction. Even better, join a choir. One study revealed that on average, choral singers rate their satisfaction with life higher than the general public does--even when the actual problems the singers face are more substantial than those of the rest of us. December 3: Enjoy a Candy Cane Studies show that just the menthol smell alone will pep you up to enjoy the holiday festivities. It's also yummy for your tummy, helping to calm an upset stomach. December 4: Munch Meringues These holiday cookies have fewer than 20 calories a pop--and zero fat--so you can eat a handful without breaking the calorie bank. December 5: Add 27 Dresses to Your Netflix Queue Even the expectation of watching a favorite comedy ups mood-boosting endorphins by 27%, shows new research. December 6: Skip the Baubles Instead of requesting jewelry, ask your husband to take you dancing. People are happier when they have life experiences instead of receiving material items, experts say. December 7: Tap Into the Power of Flowers People feel better and perkier when they see a bouquet first thing in the morning, and the energy boost lasts throughout the day, reports Harvard researcher Nancy Etcoff, PhD. December 8: Get a Helper's High A recent study shows that people who were asked to perform a different kind act every day--small courtesies such as helping a neighbor shovel her walk--reported a marked increase in happiness after 10 days. Whether you do it with money or time, giving is good for you. "Helping others increases your own level of gratefulness and positive emotions," says Sheela Raja, PhD, a psychologist and stress researcher at the University of Illinois. December 9: Send Your Old Pillow Packing To wake up feeling your best, you need a comfy headrest. If your pillow doesn't quickly spring back after you fold it in half, it's time for a new one. December 10: Hold Hands With Your Sweetie When couples were more affectionate for a month, researchers saw a dip in their stress hormones and blood pressure and an increase in a hormone thought to calm and counter stress. December 11: Cut Down Your Own Tree Being in the great outdoors reduces stress, improves mood, and boosts happiness, reports Eeva Karjalainen, PhD, of the Finnish Forest Research Institute. It may also strengthen your immune system by increasing the number and activity of cancer-destroying cells. For a feel-good feeling to the season, be sure to "treecycle. December 12: Stargaze "Concentrating is very meditative," says Boston-based psychologist Alice Domar, PhD. "And you really have to focus to see things in the sky--the Milky Way doesn't have a sign on it! December 13: Become a Softie Dry, flaky skin is a downer. Keep your skin baby soft by switching to a superhydrating body cleanser. Two that leave you silky smooth: Dove Winter Care Beauty Bar ($7 for six bars; drugstores) and Melvita Extra-Rich Shower Cream ($17; melvita.com). December 14: Window-Shop The same brain chemicals that make sex so pleasurable rise sharply when you're window-shopping. (No wonder Sex and the City had such a winning formula!) To avoid overspending, peek through the glass when stores are closed or you've left your wallet at home. December 15: Bask in a Nutcracker Ballet Performance Haven't seen Clara and the Sugar Plum Fairy twirl and leap since you were a little girl yourself? Get tickets to a local community performance. New research shows that people who regularly attend cultural events feel healthier and more vital than those who don't participate. December 16: Grin While You Shop Having a cheery attitude during the holiday season increases the chances that those around you will feel warm and fuzzy too, according to one study. December 17: Treat Yourself to a Salon Facial "I love facials for a relaxing experience and a temporary glow," says New Orleans dermatologist and Prevention advisor Mary Lupo, MD. Schedule it a day away from any big event, so the pinkness has time to fade. December 18: Make Holiday Cards Gratitude Cards Instead of signing your cards with a generic "Hope all is well," take time to express to friends and family what they really mean to you. Studies find that showing gratitude increases your own happiness by as much as 25%.

December 19: Savor Your Sunday Pick any Sunday this month and make it an errand-free day. Better yet, fill it with as many pleasurable activities as possible. Research shows that people have better attitudes, more energy, and fewer aches and pains on the weekends--a benefit that comes from having more control over your schedule and being able to spend time with loved ones. December 20: Dive Into a Good Book "Reading can have a tranquilizing effect," says Timothy Shanahan, PhD, a professor of urban education and reading at the University of Illinois at Chicago. "I usually read before going to bed--it stops my mind from racing and allows me to get away from myself for a few moments, which helps me relax and sleep well." December 21: Get on a Roll A foam roller, that is. This hot fitness tool also has a more pleasurable use: rolling on it to massage tight glutes, deltoids, triceps, and hamstrings (about $25; sporting goods stores). "It's the next-best thing to a professional massage," says Michele Stanten, Prevention fitness director. December 22: Hit the Snooze Button Sleeping 7 1/2 hours a night for 3 straight nights guarantees you'll get through at least five full sleep cycles a night, garnering the full benefits of stage-4 sleep (the most nourishing and restful)--and bolstering your immunity. December 23: Pamper Your Peds Give shopped-out feet a well-deserved time-out with a 10-minute soak in the spearmint-, rosemary-, and eucalyptus-infused Aromafloria For Feet's Sake Perfectly Soft Spa Foot Soak ($10.50; aromafloria.com). Or, for instant relief, spritz them with Freeman Bare Foot Cooling Foot Mist ($4; freemanbeauty.com). December 24: Make Friends With Hot Cocoa Just holding a warm beverage makes us more generous and friendly, find Yale University researchers. Turns out warm hands are linked to warm hearts by way of a part of the brain called the insula, which helps process both physical temperature and emotions. December 25: Sit By a Crackling Fire Tuning in to the sounds of nature--listening to tweeting birds or rain on the roof also qualifies--quickly reduced stress in one recent study. December 26: Buy a New Lipstick The daily pick-me-up you'll get from it will be more satisfying than clothes or accessories, which you'll only wear every once in a while, finds new research. December 27: Plan Your Next Vacation Looking forward to a trip can boost your mood for as long as 16 weeks prior to the departure date, finds Dutch research. December 28: Mellow Out to Mozart Yes, even if you're usually a Lady Gaga fan. After three 28-minute sessions of listening to Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, people felt more peaceful, more relaxed, and less stressed than those who tuned in to other music; they also felt higher levels of awe, wonder, and mystery. December 29: Make a Date With Your College Roommate Simply spending time with a favorite friend increases levels of the hormone progesterone, which can lower feelings of anxiety and stress, finds a recent University of Michigan study. December 30: Peel Yourself a Clementine When researchers mapped the moods created by certain fragrances, they found the scent of this sweet, juicy fruit more likely to boost joy. Not only will a whiff of one help keep you happy, the vitamin C, calcium, and potassium in it will help keep you healthy too. December 31: Go for a Moonlight Walk Two-thirds of British women recently confessed to being bored by their daily routine. You too? Then shake things up: Eat breakfast for dinner, reroute your commute, or take a new exercise class. Source: Prevention.com

MEATLESS MONDAY RECIPE

Hope everyone had a great Labor Day weekend.

Meatless dishes are full of vitamins, minerals and other important nutrients that are good for your body. The following recipe is packed full of herbs, spices and delicious flavors to satisfy your taste buds.

Curried Sweet Potato & Lentil Soup

Prep Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

• 2 Tbsp canola oil
• 1 med onion, roughly chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Tbsp minced fresh ginger
• 2 Tbsp curry powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 4 plum tomatoes, chopped
• 1 c dried lentils
• 1 qt unsalted vegetable stock (we used Kitchen Basics) or water
• 1 can (14 fl oz) light coconut milk (we used Thai Kitchen Lite) or 1 1/2 c stock or water
• 1 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2" chunks
• 1 sm zucchini, roughly chopped
• 1/2 c green beans cut into thirds
• 1/2 c chopped cilantro or fresh parsley

1. HEAT oil in deep frying pan or medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and ginger and cook 1 minute longer. Stir in curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until powder is darkened and fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes.

2. STIR in tomatoes and lentils. Add stock and coconut milk. Bring to a boil. Partially cover and reduce heat to low so soup bubbles gently.

3. COOK, stirring occasionally, until lentils begin to soften, about 15 minutes. Stir in potatoes and more stock or water if mixture looks dry. Cover and cook about 10 minutes. Stir in zucchini and green beans, adding more water if needed to keep everything brothy. Cover and cook until lentils and all vegetables are tender, 5 to 10 minutes longer. Stir in cilantro and salt and black pepper to taste.

NUTRITION (per serving) 446 cal, 17 g pro, 63 g carb, 20 g fiber, 15 g fat, 6.5 g sat fat, 974 mg sodium

Best Ever BBQ Chicken

A last minute BBQ chicken recipe to add to your Labor Day cookout.
Give your tastebuds a tingle with this healthy tasty BBQ chicken.

Makes: 4 servings

Ingredients
1/4 - cup chili sauce
2 - tablespoons low-sodium ketchup
1 - tablespoon honey
1 - tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 - teaspoon ground ginger
1 - teaspoon Dijon mustard
3/4 - teaspoon black pepper
1/4 - teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 - teaspoon red pepper
12 oz. - boneless, skinless chicken breast

Directions
1. Coat a grill rack with nonstick spray. Fire up the grill and heat up to 350 degrees.
Place rack on grill.
2. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, mix the chili sauce, ketchup, honey, vinegar, ginger, mustard, black pepper, garlic powder and red pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove from the heat. Set aside.
3. Place the chicken on the rack over the heat. Grill, uncovered, for 10 minutes. Turn the chicken over and brush with the sauce. Grill until the chicken is no longer pink, 5 to 10 minutes. Brush with the remaining sauce before serving.

Per Serving: 120 calories; 1 g total fat; .3g sat fat; 48mg cholesterol; 233mg sodium; 6g carbs; 2 g sugars; 19g protein

Picnic Salads

Here's a few healthy salads to go with your Labor Day BBQ.

Summer Tomato, Onion & Cucumber Salad
Makes: 6 servings, about 1 1/2 cups each
Prep Time: 50 minutes (including 30 minutes marinating time)

Ingredients
3 - tablespoons rice vinegar
1 - tablespoon canola oil
1 - teaspoon honey
1/2 - teaspoon salt
1/2 - teaspoon freshly ground pepper
2 - medium cucumbers
4 - medium tomatoes, cut into 1/2 inch wedges
1 - sweet onion, halved and very thinly sliced
2 - tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh tarragon

Directions
1. Whisk vinegar, oil, honey, salt and pepper in a large shallow bowl.
2. Take fork prongs and run them down the sides of cucumber to make a stripped decoration.
3. Sliced cucumber into thins rounds. Add the cucumber slices, tomatoes and onion to the dressing; gently toss to combine.
4. Let stand at room temperature for a least 30 minutes and up to 1 hour.
5. Just before serving, add fresh tarragon and toss.

Per serving: 58 calories; 3g fat; 0mg cholesterol; 8g carbs; 1g sugars; 1g protein; 2 g fiber; 202mg sodium


Country Potato Salad
Makes: 8 servings, about 1 cup each
Prep Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients
2 - pounds small potatoes
1 - cup chopped celery
1/4 - cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 - cup sliced green onions
2 - tablespoons chopped fresh dill
2 - tablespoons minced carrots
3/4 - cup nonfat buttermilk
1 - tablespoon lemon juice
1 - tablespoon canola oil
1/2 - teaspoon salt
Freshly ground pepper to taste

Directions
1. Place potatoes in large saucepan, cover with water and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium and cook, partially covered, until just tender, 12 to 20 minutes, depending on their size. Drain and let cool for about 15 minutes.
2. When the potatoes are cool enough to handle cut into bite-size pieces and put them in a large salad bowl.
3. Add celery, onions, carrots, parsley and dill to potatoes. Toss to combine.
4. In small bowl combine buttermilk, lemon juice, oil, salt and pepper. Pour over potato salad and toss gently. Chill before serving.

Per Serving: 139 calories; 4g fat; 1g sat; 2g Mono; 58mg cholesterol; 20g carbs; 6g protein; 2g fiber; 272mg sodium

Healthy Tips for Labor Day Grilling

Everyone loves to grill out on Labor day with family and friends. Here are a few tips and tricks to enjoy these barbecue favorites guilt-free.

Chicken Brats: 148 calories, 9g total fat, 0 carbs, 60 mg sodium, 16g protein.

Hot Dogs; 98% fat-free Turkey Wieners: 40 calories, .5g total fat, 3g carbs, 470 mg sodium, 5g protein

Lean Turkey Burgers: 160 calories, 9g total fat, 0g carb, 85mg sodium, 18g protein

Whole Wheat Sandwich Rounds: 100 calories, 0g trans fats, cholesterol free

Condiments: Go light on the ketchup, sweet relish and mayonnaise. Heavy on the mustard it’s less in calories. Watch the sweet pickles they are high in carbs and sodium. Try Cucumber slices with a bit of lemon-pepper seasoning.

Hold the Sautéed Toppers: Raw bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, cucumber, etc add a few vitamins and minerals and make a small burger into a thicker bite.

Boycott Cheese: Skip the cheese on hamburgers to reduce saturated fat and calories. Instead, add flavor enhancers such as salsa, hot sauce, wasabi, or Worchester sauce.

Go Topless: Hold on we're talking about hamburger buns. Use only half the bun to cut carbs. Opt for a whole grain bun when you have the choice. If available, use a lettuce-leaf topper to help keep your fingers clean. Or use sandwich rounds that are the same size as a half of regular bun.

By Hope S. Warshaw, R.D., CDE

Food Truck Party

Posh amazed the employees of a company with six different food truck stations that had great tasting themed food and fun atmosphere.

There was Gogi-a-go-go Station with Korean beef lettuce wraps and fresh made Kimchi and Pickled Cucumber Salad.

An All American Three Little Pigs Station with pulled pork topped with coleslaw on a mini-roll displayed in checkered paper boats.

The Gotta Tostada Station had mini tostada shells filled with beans, shredded chicken and all the fix'ns.

Next they traveled to Caboodles of Noodles Station which was Asian style noodles tossed with Vegan vegetables and served in a Chinese take- out box with chopsticks.

Then they sailed over to the Caribbean Tropical Tacos of mini taco shells filled with grilled fish, shredded slaw and tropical fruit salsa served on bamboo trays.

The last station was the Cupcake Factory where
an assembly line of different flavored cupcakes were all trayed up for the taking.

All stations were decorated according to there theme with a colorful sign to match and a pleasant server to help with your order.

Client Comment:
It was great and your whole team is so wonderful and pleasant.
The employees could not quit talking about it!
Thanks again,
Jeanie

Meatless Monday Recipe

This is a quick, easy and inexpensive dinner. It's healthy and low in calories.



STUFFED ZUCCHINI BOATS
serves: 8
prep time: 30 minutes
cooking time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

4 medium zucchini
1-cup chopped tomatoes
1/2 tablespoon Italian seasonings
¼ cup chopped onion
½ teaspoon fresh chopped basil
½ teaspoon fresh chopped oregano
1- 16oz can red kidney beans drained (reserve 1/2 cup) and rinsed
½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. Cut zucchini in half length wise and scoop out pulp, leaving ¼ inch thick shells.
2. Mash kidney beans with 1/2 cup reserved liquid and mix with pulp. Add chopped tomatoes Italian seasoning.
   
3. Add remainder of ingredients and mix well.
4. Place zucchini halves in 13x9x2 baking dish sprayed with oil.
5. Spoon stuffing mixture into zucchini shells.
6. Bake at 350 degree for 30 minutes or until zucchini is tender.

Serve with green salad.

Enhance Your Productivity With Brain Food

1. Berries-- contain two main sources of antioxidants to improve memory, balance and coordination.
2. Yogurt-- stimulates alertness and concentration.
3. Nuts -- clear up brain fog, enable you to think more clearly and enchance your mood.
4. Eggs -- an important component for the body's manufacture of neurotransmitters.
5. Salmon -- king of the ocean -- is rich in protein, vitamin A & C and brain boosting omega 3
6. Tomatoes -- are a fantastic brain food with a unique antioxidant source which help protect the brain against free radical damage.
7. Dark Chocolate -- is rich in antioxidants and natural stimulants which increase endorphins to enhance focus and concentration.
8. Brown Rice -- will help maintain concentration and improve memory because it has the perfect mix of carbohydrates and fiber to fuel the Brain.
9. Green Tea -- enhances memory and focus and fights mental fatigue. It contains catechins which help you relax mentally and maintains your focus. Safely enjoy two small cups a day. Rich in antioxidant, amino acid and vitamins.
10. Avocado -- contributes to a healthy blood flow which is required for a healthy brain.
11. Seeds --contain a lot of protein beneficial fat and vitamin E as well as stress releasing antioxidants and important brain boosting minerals like magnesium.
12. Wheat Germ -- is a powerful brain booster, because it is rich in selenium.
13. Sweet Potatoes -- are especially brain nourishing as they are rich in B6 neurotransmitter and antioxidants
14. Dark Green Vegetables -- boost mood alertness.
15. Spinach -- helps form oxidative stress.
16. Coffee -- Safely enjoy two small cups a day. Rich in antioxidants, low in calories.
17. Fruit -- packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, low in calories.
18. Whole Grains -- boosts flow to the brain and contains essential vitamins for protecting your memory.
19. Broccoli -- enhances cognitive functions and improves brain power.

Boy we sure have a lot to eat just to keep us on the ball everyday. Lets have a feast.

It's August

The months are going by fast, to me anyway. We just put the finishing touches on our new website and new Pure and Natural menu. The website has a fresh, clean, pure feel to it, just like our Pure and Natural menu. Which has great new items for those with dietary restrictions. All the menu items are fresh, flavorful and healthy. Please tour the new website and review the new Pure and Natural menu. http://www.poshproductionsinc.com

Teresa Dinh, Executive Director of the Arthritis Foundation presents Carol Miller, president of Posh Productions Inc., with an award for being a proud sponsor and donating to the Arthritis Walk on May 15, 2011.

Meatless Monday Dinner Tonight---
Now that the days are starting to heat up, it's time to take the cooking outside. Here is a great grilled pizza from Martha Stewart.

WEST COAST GRILLED VEGETABLE PIZZA

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Posh-Productions-Inc/242345414679

50th Anniversary Celebration

We were overjoyed at the success of the party made in large part by your delicious food and congenial people. Thank you for your attentiveness, flexibility and enthusiasm from our first meeting through our good night on Sunday.

We look forward to seeing (and tasting) POSH again in a few months. Until then, enjoy you summer.

Thanks
Lorellen

Meatless Monday Recipe

Tofu Stir-Fry with Whole-Wheat Spaghetti, Vegetables and Peanut Sauce

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Posh-Productions-Inc/242345414679

Posh Review -- Healthy Lunch

I am a registered dietitian and was invited to talk with the employees about healthy nutrition. I was so thrilled to see the menu you offered; it was absolutely perfect. I was also impressed to see your nutritional information that you provided for the lunch menu.
I will certainly contact you if there is ever any case to which I can recommend a caterer.
Once again, thank you from a dietitian's perspective on providing a healthy and tasty lunch.
Robyn Moss, MS, RD

12 FOODS THAT HELP YOU HEAL

12. Dandelion

The same pesky weed known for ruining lawns has a long history of being used as a healing herb in cultures around the globe. One cup of raw dandelion greens provides 535 percent of the RDA of vitamin K and 112 percent of the RDA for vitamin A. Dandelion greens are also a good source of vitamin C, calcium, iron, fiber, and potassium. Among all foods, it's one of the richest sources of vitamin A; among all green vegetables, it's one of the best sources of beta-carotene.

Dandelion has been used for centuries to treat hepatitis, kidney, and liver disorders such as kidney stones, jaundice, and cirrhosis. It's routinely prescribed as a natural treatment for hepatitis C, anemia, and liver detoxification (poor liver function has been linked to numerous conditions, from indigestion and hepatitis to irritability and depression). As a natural diuretic, dandelion supports the entire digestive system and increases urine output, helping flush toxins and excess salt from the kidneys. The naturally occurring potassium in dandelions helps prevent the loss of potassium that can occur with pharmaceutical diuretics.

Dandelion promotes digestive health by stimulating bile production, resulting in a gentle laxative effect. Inulin, a naturally occurring soluble fiber in dandelion, further aids digestion by feeding the healthy probiotic bacteria in the intestines; it also increases calcium absorption and has a beneficial effect on blood sugar levels, therefore being useful in treating diabetes. Both the dandelion leaves and root are used to treat heartburn and indigestion. The pectin in dandelion relieves constipation and, in combination with vitamin C, reduces cholesterol. Dandelion is excellent for reducing edema, bloating, and water retention; it can also help reduce high blood pressure. On top of all that, dandelion contains multiple antidiarrheal and antibacterial properties.

In Chinese medicine, dandelion is used in combination with other herbs to treat hepatitis and upper respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia. The sap from the stem and root is a topical remedy for warts. Imagine -- all this from a lowly weed!

How much: How much dandelion to incorporate into your diet boils down to two factors: availability and personal preference. Dandelion greens are considered a specialty item in some areas and therefore can be difficult to find. They also have a pungent taste, and people tend to love or hate the flavor. If you can find fresh dandelion greens and you enjoy the taste, make them a regular part of your diet.

Tip:

· Use the root in soups or sauté it on its own.

· If the raw leaves are too bitter for you, try them lightly steamed or sautéed.

Posh Review

I love Posh! They are the best catering company I have ever used. They are very cutting edge and always ahead of the trends. They always surprise me with their innovative menu interpretations. What my husband and I really appreciate is they make all our parties magical! We just had our 35th wedding anniversary party and all our guests were blown away by the gourmet food and the presentation was wonderful. Thank you for making all our parties special.
Cathy, Huntington Beach

Posh Review

Posh fits this company to the tee. Mina a friend of mine has used this company for all of her parties and I always commented on how great the food and service had been. It was not your ordinary catering company. So when it was time for me to have the Grand Opening of my business, I called upon Posh to cater it. It was a smash of a party, everyone was in the room where the food was most of the night and I think just about all of the 100 people that were there commented on how great the food and party was. Their presentation of the food was fabulous and everything tasted even better than it looked. I had found it difficult trying to decide just what to serve as there were so many outstanding items to choose from. Their service was impeccable and all in all helped to create a most memorable evening.
Mike, Laguna Niguel

12 FOODS THAT HELP YOU HEAL

11. Kale

Kale is highly nutritious, has powerful antioxidant properties, and is anti-inflammatory. One cup of cooked kale contains an astounding 1,328 percent of the RDA for vitamin K, 192 percent of the RDA for vitamin A, and 89 percent of the RDA for vitamin C. It's also a good source of calcium and iron.

Kale is in the same plant family as broccoli and cabbage, and, like its cruciferous cousins, it contains high levels of the cancer-fighting compound sulforaphane, which guards against prostate, gastric, skin, and breast cancers by boosting the body's detoxification enzymes and fighting free radicals in the body. The indoles in kale have been shown to protect against breast, cervical, and colon cancers. The vitamin K in kale promotes blood clotting, protects the heart, and helps build strong bones by anchoring calcium to the bone. It also has more antioxidant power than spinach, protecting against free-radical damage. Kale is extra rich in beta-carotene (containing seven times as much as does broccoli), lutein, and zeaxanthin (ten times the amount in broccoli). In Chinese medicine, kale is used to help ease lung congestion.

How much: Like cabbage, the more kale you can eat, the better. A daily serving is ideal. Eat it as much as you can, as long as you can find it fresh at your local grocery or farmer's market. In some areas, it's available all year; in others, it only makes an appearance during summer and fall.

Tips:

· Kale's growing season extends nearly year-round; the only time it's out of season is summer, when plenty of other leafy greens are abundant.

· Steam or sauté kale on its own, or add it to soups and stews. Cooking helps tenderize the leaves.

Kale is also a great addition when it's blended in fruit smoothies or juiced with other vegetables.

Posh Review

We had a pasta dish from Posh. I thought it was pretty good! The sauce was very delicious it had great flavors. The people are pretty cool, I'd recommend them again.
Hoang, Garden Grove

12 FOODS THAT HELP YOU HEAL

10. Broccoli

You'll find it difficult to locate another single food source with as much naturally occurring health-promoting properties as broccoli. A single cup of steamed broccoli provides more than 200 percent of the RDA for vitamin C (more than oranges), nearly as much of vitamin K, and about half of the daily allowance for vitamin A, along with plentiful folate, fiber, sulfur, iron, B vitamins, and a whole host of other important nutrients. Calorie for calorie, broccoli contains about twice the amount of protein as steak -- and a lot more protective phytonutrients.

Broccoli's phytochemicals fight cancer by neutralizing carcinogens and accelerating their elimination from the body, in addition to inhibiting tumors caused by chemical carcinogens. Studies show evidence that these substances help prevent lung and esophageal cancers and may play a role in lowering the risk of other cancers, including gastrointestinal cancer.

Phytonutrients called indoles found in broccoli help protect against prostate, gastric, skin, breast, and cervical cancers. Some research suggests that indoles also protect the structure of DNA and may reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Extensive studies have linked broccoli to a 20 percent reduction in heart disease risk. In Chinese medicine, broccoli is used to treat eye inflammation.

How much: If you can eat a little broccoli every day, your body will thank you for it. If you can't swing it, aim for eating it as regularly as possible. Like many other vegetables, broccoli provides fantastic nutrition both in its raw form and when it's properly cooked. Cooking reduces some of broccoli's anticancer components, but lightly steaming it will preserve most of the nutrients. Broccoli is available fresh year-round in most areas, but if you can't find it where you live, frozen broccoli is a good substitute.

Tip:

• Steaming or cooking broccoli lightly releases the maximum amount of the antioxidant sulforaphane.

4th of JULY GRILLING PICNIC MENU

Brats with Mango Relish
Makes: 4 servings
Start to Finish: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 large fresh mango, seeded, peeled, and halved
• 1 small red onion, cut in 1/2-inch slices
• 4 cooked smoked bratwurst (12 oz.)
• 4 buns, split
• 2 hearts of romaine lettuce, halved
• 1/2 tsp. Jamaican jerk seasoning

Directions

1. Brush mango and onion with 1 tablespoon cooking oil.

2. On rack of uncovered grill place mango halves, onion, and brats directly over medium heat. Grill for 8 minutes, or until mango and brats are browned and heated through and onion is crisp-tender, turning once halfway through cooking. Lightly toast buns for 1 to 2 minutes on grill. Set aside mango, onion, and brats.

3. Lightly brush romaine with cooking oil. Grill 1 to 2 minutes, directly over medium coals, until lightly browned and wilted, turning once.

4. For relish, chop grilled mango and onion. Combine in bowl with 1 tablespoon cooking oil, the jerk seasoning, and salt and pepper. Serve brats in buns with relish and romaine.

Finger-Lickin' Barbecue Chicken
Makes: 6 servings
Prep: 45 minutes
Marinate: 2 to 4 hours
Grill: 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 3 to 4 pounds meaty chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, and drumsticks)
• 1-1/2 cups dry sherry
• 1 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 bay leaves
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 15-ounce can tomato puree
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons light-flavored molasses
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, crushed
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon ground red pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar

Directions

1. Place chicken in a plastic bag set in a shallow dish. For marinade, in a medium bowl stir together sherry, onion, lemon juice, bay leaves, and garlic. Pour over chicken; seal bag. Marinate in the refrigerator for 2 to 4 hours, turning bag occasionally. Drain chicken, reserving marinade. Cover and chill chicken until ready to grill.

2. For sauce, in a large saucepan combine the reserved marinade, the tomato puree, honey, molasses, salt, thyme, red pepper, and pepper. Bring to boiling. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, about 30 minutes or until reduced to 2 cups. Remove from heat; remove bay leaves. Stir in vinegar.

3. For a charcoal grill, arrange medium-hot coals around a drip pan. Test for medium heat above the pan. Place chicken pieces, bone sides down, on grill rack over drip pan. Cover and grill for 5 0 to 60 minutes or until tender and no longer pink, brushing with some of the sauce during the last 15 minutes of grilling. [For a gas grill, preheat grill. Reduce heat to medium. Adjust for indirect cooking. To serve, reheat and pass the remaining sauce with chicken

Garden Three-Bean Salad
with Fresh French Dressing

Makes 8 servings.
Start to Finish: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups green beans, trim if desired
• 2 cups frozen shelled sweet soybeans (edamame), thawed
• 8 cups salad greens
• 1 cup canned white beans such as cannellini, thoroughly rinsed and drained
• 1 cup radishes, quartered and/or sliced
• 1 recipe Fresh French Dressing (recipe below)

Directions

1. In a microwave-safe bowl combine green beans with 1/4 cup water and 1 tsp. salt. Toss to distribute salt among beans. Microcook, uncovered, on 100 percent power (high) for 3 to 5 minutes or until just tender. Set aside and allow to cool.

2. Place salad greens in a large salad bowl; add green beans, edamame, and white beans. Add about half the dressing. Sprinkle with pepper and toss gently. Pass remaining dressing.

Fresh French Dressing: In a blender combine 2 medium tomatoes, halved and seeded; 2 to 3 Tbsp. red wine vinegar; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 Tbsp. snipped fresh tarragon; 2 Tbsp. tomato pa ste, and 2 tsp. Dijon mustard. Cover and process until thoroughly blended. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Tomatoes vary in juiciness, if dressing is too thin, blend in additional tomato paste, 1 teaspoon at a time. Refrigerate until serving time.



Greek Pasta Salad
Makes 12-16 side dishes
Prep: 40 minutes
Chill: 2 to 24 hours

Ingredients

• 12 oz. dried fusilli or penne pasta (about 4 cups uncooked)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, quartered
• 1 medium cucumber, halved lengthwise and sliced
• 4 green onions, sliced
• 1/3 cup pitted kalamata olives, halved
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 2 Tbsp. snipped fresh basil or 2 tsp. dried basil, crushed
• 2 Tbsp. snipped fresh oregano or 2 tsp. dried oregano, crushed
• 1 Tbsp. anchovy paste (optional)
• 4 to 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese (4 oz.)
• Fresh oregano leaves

Directions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain in a colander. Rinse with cold water; drain again.

2. In a large bowl toss together the cooked pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, green onions, and olives.

3. In a screw-top jar combine the olive oil, lemon juice, basil, the 2 tablespoons oregano, anchovy paste (if using), garlic, salt, and pepper. Cover and shake well. Drizzle over past mixture; toss to coat.

4. Cover and chill in refrigerator for as least 2 hours or up to 24 hours. To serve, add feta cheese; toss. Sprinkle fresh oregano leaves.

Skillet White Beans
Servers: 12-14 side dishes
Prep: 25 minutes
Cook: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 large sweet onion, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced (2 cups)
• 3 Tbsp. butter
• 1/2 cup maple or maple-flavored syrup
• 1/3 cup white balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
• 2 Tbsp. packed brown sugar
• 2 Tbsp. snipped fresh sage
• 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
• 2 15-1/2- or 16-oz. cans navy beans, rinsed and drained
• 2 15 1/2- or 16-oz. cans butter beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 15- to 16-oz. can garbanzo beans (chickpeas), rinsed and drained
• Dairy sour cream
• Yellow, red, and/or green tomatoes, chopped (optional)
• Sage leaves (optional)

Directions

1. In 12-inch skillet cook onion in hot butter over medium heat about 15 minutes or until very tender and browned, stirring occasionally. Stir in maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, sage, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Add beans; stir to coat.

2. Cover and cook over medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes or until heated through, stirring occasionally. Transfer to a serving bowl. Top with sour cream. Garnish with tomatoes and sage leaves.

Margarita Grilled Corn
Makes: 8 servings
Prep: 25 minutes
Grill: 25 minutes
Stand: 2 hours

Ingredients

• 8 ears fresh corn in husks
• 4 tsp. finely shredded lime peel (peel from 2 to 3 limes)
• 2 tsp. kosher salt or sea salt
• 1/3 cup butter, melted
• 1 tsp. chili powder
• Small Limes (optional)

Directions

1. Carefully peel back corn husks, but do not remove. Scrub ears with stiff brush to remove silks. Rinse ears. Pull husks back up around corn. Place in large pot; cover with water. Soak 2 to 4 hours; drain well. Peel back husks and pat corn dry with paper towels.

2. For lime salt, in small bowl stir together lime peel and salt. Brush some of the butter on corn. Sprinkle lightly with lime salt and chili powder. Fold husks back around ears. Tie husk tops with strips of corn husk or 100% cotton kitchen string.

3. For charcoal grill, grill corn on rack of uncovered grill directly over medium coals for 25 to 30 minutes or until tender, turning and rearranging occasionally. (For gas grill, preheat grill. Reduce heat to medium. Place corn on grill rack over heat. Cover; grill as above.)

4. To serve, remove ties from corn; peel back husks. Pass remaining butter, lime salt, chili powder, and limes for squeezing.

This is our recipe of the month on the July Newsletter. Sounds like a fun food grill.

Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Kebabs
Yield: Serves 8
Prep Time: 32 minutes

Ingredients
• 1/2 cup whipping cream
• 1/2 cup crème fraîche
• 2 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar
• Zest of 1/2 lemon
• 1 angel food cake (1 lb.)
• 32 strawberries (2 lbs.), preferably
about 1 1/2 in. wide, hulled to create a V-shaped hollow
• 6 tablespoons strawberry jam

Directions
1. Beat whipping cream, crème fraîche, sugar, and zest in a bowl with a mixer until thick enough to
hold a soft shape. Chill.

2. Cut cake into parallel slices 1 1/2 in. wide, then cut slices into 32 chunks, each 1 1/2 in. Save
remaining cake for other uses.

3. Heat grill to medium-low (300° to 350°). Put strawberries in a large bowl. Microwave jam in a
glass measuring cup until bubbling, about 30 seconds. Using a pastry brush, dab hulled insides of
berries with jam, then brush remaining jam over berries and turn gently to coat all over.

4. Hold a pair of bamboo skewers so they're slightly separated and thread a chunk of cake onto them, then a berry crosswise, then another chunk of cake and another berry. Repeat to make 15 more kebabs.

5. Grill kebabs, covered, turning once with tongs, until grill marks appear, 3 to 4 minutes; cake should release from grate when it's toasted, but if not, nudge with tip of tongs. Serve with cream mixture.

• Make ahead: Through step 4 up to 2 hours, covered and chilled.