Use salt, with discretion, to increase the flavor of your food.

            In recent years, salt has gotten a bad reputation. Yes, your body does need salt to function; the problem arises when you consume too much of it. Consuming too much of anything, even water, can kill you.

Manufacturers liberally add salt to packaged foods as a flavor enhancer and preservative. If you eat many ready-made foods, then you’ll probably consume too much salt—a perfect example of why cooking for your family can be so important. When you cook your own food, you have 100 percent control over the amount of salt in your finished dish instead of being at the mercy of someone else’s choice.

            Don’t underestimate the effect of a bit of added salt. Many times a finished dish will taste flat in spite of the fact it includes a lot of fresh ingredients, herbs, and aromatics such as garlic and onion. When I wonder why a dish tastes this way, I realize I have yet to add salt. It’s amazing how just a little salt makes the taste of the other flavorings pop.

  

            When you buy and cook real foods, you have 100 percent control over the amount of salt you add to the dish.  If you have a health problem that requires you to limit your intake of salt, then please follow your doctor’s advice, eat less processed foods, and eliminate salt from the dishes you cook.  If you don’t have a problem, then use salt, with discretion, to increase the flavor of your food. It will enhance the taste and your enjoyment.

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

Food Safety Tip: For food safety keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold---when in doubt throw it out.   

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