A few months have passed since our last blog, but by the end of 2009 we were back on track. CFNI partnered with the Capital Area Food Bank and conducted a workshop titled "Creating a Healthy Food Bag" on December 3, 2009. We provided information on factors that promote a healthy lifestyle and how to plan a healthy meal based on the food bag contents. The workshop included hands-on exercises where the participants had to create a healthy food bag using the information we provided them. Lastly and probably the most fun for everyone was the cooking demonstration. Using an electric skillet we prepared a pasta dish with spiral macaroni, tomatoe sauce, onions, green peppers, red beans, ground turkey, a little red wine, mozarella cheese, and seasonings. We used a recipe that might accomodate the types of foods included in a food pantry bag. The main recipe ingredients also could be changed based on the food bag content. For example, red beans could be changed to black beans. Mixed vegetables, corn, or green beans could be added. Ground meat didn't necessarily have to be added. The type of cheese could vary or be left out entirely for those who are lactose intolerant. The workshop ended with all the participants excited about the information we provided them and loving how we ended with a tasty dish!
For 2010, we've got lots of plans. First, we want to continue to develop our partnership with the Capital Area Food Bank by conducting a couple of workshops for them. Second, we've scheduled two Skillet Gatherings this year. One will be held in June and the other in October. Third, we're working on creating a community nutrition e-newsletter. It will be published quarterly with the first issue due out in April. Lastly, we've committed ourselves to blog on a monthly basis to keep everyone up to date on our activities.
Food debate of the week: Eat snakes?
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