Variety is the spice of life.

Have you ever tried jicama, parsnips, kumquats or broccoli rabe? Do you know what they are? I am going to guess you are in a food rut and you only eat what is familiar. I have had many friends over for dinner and I am always puzzled when someone looks at an unfamiliar vegetable with trepidation and reluctance. I often have to reassure them that it is not poison and if they taste it, and do not like it, they do not have to finish it.

I promise you even if the fruit or vegetable is new to you, if you purchased it at a grocery store, it will not harm you. You might not like the taste, but it will not cause shock and sudden death. How many times did your mother tell you to just try one bite? Have you ever used that same line on your children? You know they incorrectly judge the taste by how it looks; set an example for them and be the first to try fruits and vegetables that you have never tried before.

Why is this a big deal? Because as America’s Cooking Cheerleader™, I want you to cook a few nights a week so you reap all of the health, financial and family benefits that cooking gives you. If you try different foods, you will not get bored; also, a large variety of real foods ensures that you will get more nutrition. So be daring and buy some fennel and see what happens. You just might decide you like it better than celery.

Cooking is easier than you think and you and your family are worth the time and effort it takes.

Simple cooking idea: Buy mozzarella cheese when it is on sale, cut it into usable portions, label it, wrap it well, and put it in the freezer. After you defrost it in the refrigerator, the taste and texture will be perfect.

Copyright ©2010 by Gigi Centaro. All Rights Reserved.