Genesis 1:29—And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you is shall be for meat.

Greetings folks! The purpose of this column is to promote healthier eating habits. Food, as you will agree, is a big part of our lives and vital to living a healthier life. So many people are sick these days, and I believe some of this is due to food choices, how the food was grown, what type of fertilizers were used and whether or not pesticides were used on them. The following recipes are for your health as well as mine. In my younger years, I did not eat healthy. As a result, I had physical illnesses that I am still fighting.

Vegetable Minestrone

4 cups vegetable broth or stock

4 cups tomato juice

1 tablespoon organic basil leaves

1/8 teaspoon organic peppercorns, ground

1 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons organic garlic powder

2 carrots, sliced

2 stalks of celery, chopped

1 onion, chopped

1 cup sliced mushrooms

Parmesan cheese

2 (14 ounce) cans organic diced tomatoes with basil

1 1/2 cups uncooked organic pasta

*Note: Using organic ingredients is only a suggestion, although the flavor is usually better. If at all possible, use the best quality ingredients you can find in your local supermarket. Also, adding meat is an option.

Italian Salad

1 head romaine lettuce

1 bunch watercress

1 red pepper, seeded and julienned

1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, quartered

1 heart of celery with leaves, finely chopped

1 small red onion, finely sliced

1/2 cup small seed sprouts

2 carrots, peeled and grated

1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded

1 cup cooked chickpeas

dressing of your choice

Herbed Garlic Bread

1/2 cup butter

1 large loaf French bread

1/2 teaspoon thyme

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon rosemary

Grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon oregano

Fresh minced parsley

1/2 teaspoon basil

In a small saucepan combine the butter, thyme, rosemary, oregano, and basil. Heat over low heat until the butter is melted. Slice the bread and generously brush the butter mixture on each slice. Sprinkle with minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Bake in a 475 degree oven or under the broiler until lightly browned.

Hopefully, the following months ahead will pleasantly please our palates as well as bring health and enjoyment from the foods we eat. Until next time!

Psalm 104:14—He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herbs for the service of man: that he may bring forth food out of the earth.