How to Freeze Bananas

As I have mentioned in a previous blog, reducing my household food waste is one of my 2021 goals. Not all food that is wasted can be saved or eaten, but a lot of food waste can be prevented, especially at home. Growing up—and even still now—my mom always had a tip for freezing food […]

Food Safety During a Power Outage

North Carolina has a Winter Storm Warning for the next two days with power outages likely due to ice. Our colleagues on the Safe Plates team have several resources to help you prepare for power outages and keep your food safe. Check out this video from Dr. Ben Chapman, NC State Extension food safety specialist, […]

Quote bubble that says from a participant

“I highly recommend it, you will be glad you did it.”

Below is a testimonial from a recent Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less participant that completed the program: “I started this program with some hesitation but I am so grateful for it. Carrie, our instructor, was great. She really motivated us. She was so encouraging and knowledgeable. This program teaches you to read labels, move […]

Heart Healthy Valentine’s Day Dinner at Home

Treat your significant other or loved one to a special dinner by securing a dinner reservation at this year’s hottest new restaurant—your own kitchen. Last February, our colleagues at Homegrown filmed a cooking demonstration for a heart healthy Valentine’s Day dinner. Watch and learn as Carolyn Dunn, NC State Extension nutrition specialist, guides you through a simple […]

6 Healthy Homemade Salad Dressings

Part of Eating the Med Way includes choosing olive oil and using herbs and spices. You can use olive oil for cooking, dressings, and marinades. Using herbs and spices in your cooking is a great way to add flavor without adding a lot of salt. Below are 6 delicious salad dressing recipes that are great for […]

posts of simmering stock

Reduce Your Food Waste – Make Vegetable Stock

One of my goals for 2021 is to establish more environmentally friendly habits in my daily life. Specifically, I want to be more mindful of food waste. Fortunately for me (and for you), the Safe Plates team is kicking off 2021 with an Avoiding Food Waste campaign. I can’t wait to see what tips and […]

Make Smart Breakfast Choices

Eating a nutritious breakfast (whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and a lean protein such as eggs) maintains blood sugar levels and sets the tone for a day of healthy eating. This also promotes weight maintenance and weight loss by maintaining blood glucose levels and your metabolism. Check out this handout from our colleagues at NC EFNEP […]

Cross sections of various citrus fruits

Winter Citrus Salad

This recipe comes from Med instead of Meds and is a fabulous salad for citrus lovers! The recipe was created by Chef Ellen Clevenger-Firley and is a wonderful way to enjoy fresh citrus any time of the year, including during its peak season – winter. Serves 4Serving Size: 2 cups (481 grams)Prep Time: 15-20 minutesTotal […]

How to Stay Active & Warm this Winter

Whether you are planning on exercising or socializing outdoors this winter we have some tips to help you stay warm! We want you to dress like an onion, and by that, we mean dress in layers. Here is a general guide for your “onion” layers: 1st Layer: You should wear wicking materials, made from a […]

Healthier Eggnog Recipe

Christmas is this Friday! For many families, eggnog is a timeless tradition during the holidays but it comes with a hefty amount of calories (around 180 calories for 4 ounces). For those who crave the flavor on a regular basis try out this recipe for a healthy eggnog smoothie: Recipe from NC EFNEP Ingredients ½ […]