Introduction to Irish Food

  Introducing a World of Flavor

A visit to rural Ireland is filled with spectacular views of lush, green hillsides and fields. Ireland's green countryside is perfect for raising cattle and sheep and dairy farming.   The country's mild climate provides a long growing season for a variety of vegetables and fruits. Irish cooks take advantage of the local harvest by choosing to cook with high quality, local and fresh ingredients.

Irish cooks keep it simple in the kitchen. Dishes are prepared using basic ingredients and easy to follow recipes.

The common staples in an Irish kitchen include:

• Potatoes (you may have guessed this!)
• Root vegetables (parsnips, carrots, etc...)
• Cabbage
• Whole grains
• Beef, mutton (lamb/sheep) and fish
• Dairy products - cheese, milk, butter and buttermilk

Herbs and Spices in Irish Cooking

Herbs grow well in Ireland and are used in many soups, stews and main dishes. Commonly used herbs include parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme and bay leaves. Irish bakers like to use nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves and vanilla to create delicious breads and cakes.

For more information,  sign up for Fresh Ideas and get great advice on healthy eating for your family.

Family Italian Valentine's Day Dinner Menu

 

 

Lemon Caper Baked Salmon

Garlic Parmesan Potatoes

Asparagus

Strawberries & Banana Cream

Heart-healthy salmon is a delicious mildly-flavored pink fish.  It's a perfect choice for a Valentine's Day dinner menu.  We've baked this salmon with the wonderful Italian flavors of capers and lemons.  A mayonnaise mixture applied to the salmon keeps it moist while baking and the bread crumb topping offers a nice crunchy texture. 

The baked salmon accompanied with flavorful garlic parmesan potatoes, steamed asparagus and a dessert of strawberries with banana cream makes a colorful, healthy Italian-inspired family meal.

Introduction to Italian Food

  

Italy has 20 regions, each with its own specialty dishes and cooking styles. A common factor across every region is the use of fresh products. From the far north regions to the southern shores, fresh food is the key to great tasting dishes. Italian recipes are handed down from grandmothers to the next generations.  Many recipes are surprisingly simple, so you do not need to be a culinary expert to cook up great Italian dishes at home.

  

Traditionally, the preparation of Italian food is as much of a part of the feast as the actual meal. Kids can join in on the cooking fun by washing produce, measuring ingredients, stirring, and more.  Children who get involved in preparing their food are more likely to eat it.