Smoothies are a perfect vehicle for nutritional goodness, but it can be easy for smoothies, meant as a snack or meal, to become loaded with sugar, artificial sweeteners and plenty of ingredients you probably can’t pronounce. The most satiating smoothies will include some protein, healthy fat and complex carbs. Having this combination will be satisfying and deliver you optimal nutrients. Let’s put it into practice.

The mimosa, blending sparkling wine, such as Champagne or Prosecco, with juice, like orange or grapefruit, is a bright and refreshing way to start off breakfast or brunch but can be enjoyed any time you might need to fight off a case of the “scaries” or scurvy.

This Mother’s Day, why not throw a special brunch, cocktail hour, or coffee date honoring those friends whose friendships not only impact your life, but also the lives of your children. Put some extra effort in, iron the linens, set a pretty table, make or purchase some beautiful food, and buy all the flowers.

For many families, Easter carries a deep spiritual significance; still, it’s hard to resist the charm of fluffy little chicks, beautifully decorated eggs, kids in their Sunday best, and all the fun and magic of the Easter Bunny delivering baskets full of treats.

Growing your own fruits and vegetables at home may feel intimidating. Perhaps you have a history of sad houseplants and swore off all things requiring a “green thumb,” or maybe you don’t have a yard. Adding home-grown basil to your spaghetti marinara, biting into a fresh strawberry, and grilling up vegetables from your backyard can be rewarding and delicious experiences!

Not only do nasturtiums make a colorful and easy addition to any Inland Northwest garden, but all parts of the plant are edible, too. The nasturtium’s iconic round leaves can be baked to create chips that are similar in shape and size to classic potato chips and carry a brittle crunch like seaweed snacks.

It is customary if not mandatory to indulge in a libation or two on St. Patrick’s Day, whether your blood runs green or not. St Patty’s Day signature beverages are often concoctions crafted around either beer or whiskey, possibly dyed green and/or mixed with a splash or more of Irish cream. But the big bold flavors associated with traditional Irish fare can certainly stand up to a good red or white wine if beer and whiskey aren’t your lucky charms!

Foraging for wild asparagus will add flavor to your meals, make for a beautiful day out on the Spokane River and save your money. Take advantage of these tasty plant shoots and incorporate them into your next recipe.