Ever wondered if it was possible to help the environment just by eating delicious foods? By going green, people can make decisions on what they do or eat to help the environment in a non-harmful way. Going green is when people choose how they can select quality foods that could better our environment. To go green is mostly about eating a lot of green foods but not just green, also more healthier foods. Spring has begun and warmer weather is starting to arise. This very green smoothie is a good way to cool down with spring’s warmer weather and by going green as well. 

Ingredients: 

• Kale 
• Banana 
• Spinach 
• Apple Juice 
• Mango 

  Just mix these ingredients in a blender and enjoy a very green smoothie. In the spring, a popular harvested vegetable is peas. By going green, eating a lot of vegetables is a great way to help our environment. Spanish teacher Ms.Wells is a vegan eater, and while that is not the same as going green, it has the same benefits. She says, “I became vegan for my health but also because I’m a huge animal lover.”  One of her favorite recipes is split pea soup, which she says is, “ warm, hearty, and includes a lot of nutrients.” Here is the recipe to try! 

Ingredients: 

• 1 lb dried green split peas
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 yellow onion – chopped
• 6 cloves garlic – finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon marjoram
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 8 cups vegetable stock/broth
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce – or soy sauce
• 4 medium Yukon gold potatoes – peeled and cubed
• 2 large carrots – peeled and chopped
• Salt to taste

Steps: 

1. Rinse split peas. Set aside.
2. In a large pot on medium heat, add the oil and chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add in the garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, marjoram, and black pepper, and sauté for an additional two minutes. 
4. Add the split peas, vegetable stock, and Worcestershire sauce to the pot. 
5. Bring to a boil on high. Reduce heat to low, cover the lid, then simmer for 60-75 minutes, or until the peas are tender and beginning to disintegrate. 
6. Add the potatoes and carrots into the soup. Bring to a simmer again. Simmer for 10 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. 
7. Salt to taste. 

April is a good time to try these recipes with both Earth Day and with springtime coming soon. Enjoy!