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10 Vegetables that are really fruits

Squeezing enough vegetables into your diet can be difficult enough — and that’s before you start considering that some of those veggies are actually fruits. Scientifically speaking, a fruit comes from a seed-bearing part of a plant that grows as the result of a fertilized flower. Another way to tell is that fruits usually have seeds on the inside. Vegetables on the other hand, come from just about any other part of a plant. Fruits and vegetables tend to get categorized in Western culture based off of how we use them — savory must mean it’s a vegetable, and sweet must mean it’s a fruit. But of course, in the botanical world, things are really more complicated than that. Here are 10 vegetables that really should count as part of your daily fruit intake: 1. Tomato You’ve likely heard this one before, but many people still get this wrong thanks…

Edamame, olive salad

This edamame, olive salad will make you feel like you’re lunching at a seaside restaurant on some far flung Greek island. I swear it! It’s such an unusual combination that your taste buds will think you’re on vacation. I had a variation of this salad last week at an unlikely waterfront spot in North Carolina. The restaurant served mostly seaside style bar food, except for this incredible side dish. I’m so glad I ordered it. It was easily my favorite thing I had that meal — aside from that delicious Southern sweet tea. That’s hard to beat. This edamame, olive combo makes for a simple salad but not one where you want to cut back on quality. A bag of shelled edamame should only run you a few dollars, so splurge on the fancy olives — you know, the ones from the olive bar. Or at least get a good brand of jarred kalamatas.…

Mediterranean tricolored rotini crab pasta salad

I make this recipe no less than 10 times a year. It’s always a hit at friend gatherings. It’s a must at Memorial Day. I never have leftovers when I bring it to work potlucks, and it’s perfect to have ready in the fridge anytime you think people might stop by. Plus, you can prepare it the night before, never worry about keeping it hot, and you can adapt the recipe to make as much as you like. When you have to feed a large number of people, try this pasta salad instead of your go-to lasagne. I made a huge bowl of this for my friends after they had their baby and they appreciated someone finally brought them something lighter and healthier! You can add anything to the mix from shredded mozzarella to sunflower seeds or blueberries. I like tossing in mandarin orange slices for a touch of sweetness and crushed croutons for some…

This is why you’ve never eaten a fresh olive

Olives are fruits that grow on trees, but have you ever wondered why you’ve never seen a fresh olive in the produce section of your grocery store? And did you know that those black olives sitting atop your pizza slice probably started in groves as green olives? As part of the series Reactions, The American Chemical Society and PBS Digital Studios produced a video that touches on the history of eating olives — it’s actually pretty recent — as well as the three chemical processes that make olives lose the terrible tasting compound, oleurpein, that prevents us from eating them fresh. Check this out to learn more about the three chemical methods producers can use on the fruit of the Olea Europaea to bring us the salty little snacks we know and love.  Why can’t you buy fresh olives? https://youtu.be/oStoeHntfG8 Also see, VIDEO: How to build the perfect charcuterie tray. Follow us on Instagram.

Tortellini skewers are an easy holiday appetizer

We’ve all been there. You have to bring an appetizer to a party, but “veggie tray” has already be claimed from the list. What do you bring when you’re concerned about travel time and keeping an appetizer warm or cold? Tortellini skewers are the answer to this age-old appetizer question. They’re both filling and festive, and the easy-to-eat design, means people will pick this up and they’ll be gone in no time. This dish can be served either warm or cold, so no need to stress about hauling coolers or reserving time in your friend’s oven. And it’s only 4 ingredients! Now that makes for holiday merriment. holiday Tortellini skewers Ingredients 10 ounce package of pre-made tortellini (multi-color make for some fun) 1/4 cup prepared pesto 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, julienne 1-2 tbsp fresh grated Parmesan cheese about 2 dozen skewers Directions Cook tortellini as the package per the package directions. Drain tortellini and toss with…

Learn to build a charcuterie board like a pro

During the holidays, when we’re almost guaranteed to be entertaining, the charcuterie board is a brilliant way to keep guests satisfied until the main course comes out. It’s the ultimate make-ahead appetizer, giving guests a fabulous feast without wasting any precious space in the already over-worked oven. In case you’re unfamiliar, or have trouble pronouncing it (like me and everyone else), it’s shar-kood-er-ee. But you can make it easy on yourself and just call it a cheeseboard. (Technically a cheeseboard is primarily cheese, while ‘charcuterie’ is the French word that refers just to the cured meats. But most people today use the terms interchangeably.) The larger platters are more appropriately named for the types of items that are included. Italians call it ‘antipasti.’ Greeks call it ‘mezze.’ Spanish call it ‘tapas.’ It’s all pretty much the same idea — small servings of each culture’s take on breads, spreads, meats, cheeses and snackable fruits and veggies,…

Delicious party rings your guests can’t pass up

Party rings are always so inviting. They’re packed with all kinds of goodness, and you can cut off as much or as little as you want to eat. And every circle has a center, meaning a built-in hole for a delicious dip meant to be shared with friends. Sure, there is shrimp cocktail, but there’s a whole world of ideas out there from buffalo chicken to biscuits and gravy. Party rings usually simple to make and pretty to look at, making them the perfect thing to bring to a holiday get-together. Here are 10 party food rings you can make and take to your next party. Buffalo Chicken Crescent Ring It’s easy, spicy, and who doesn’t love buffalo chicken dip? https://www.pinterest.com/pin/154881674664849364/ Garlic knot chicken alfredo ring There are just too many good things in that title to pass up. Yum! https://www.pinterest.com/pin/405183297717303686/ Chili Dog bread ring This would be a hit at any kids party, for…