As weird as it sounds, if you intend to plant a garden, it’s really not too early to decide now what you’re going to grow later this year. Even with all the snow, spring (and planting season) will be here before you know it. However, the best method for deciding what to plant is to begin with evaluating your dietary needs.
A diet that has a low glycemic index is probably the healthiest. It helps you fight insulin resistance, allows you to feel more satisfied without wild food craving swings, decreases your risk of heart disease and Type 2 diabetes, and allows you to lose weight in a healthy fashion. Depending on your area and climate, consider the following vegetables:
– Asparagus
– Beans – green and waxed
– Broccoli
– Cabbage
– Cucumbers
– Eggplant (try some of the more exotic varieties for fun!)
– Greens (mustard, turnip, spinach, etc.)
– Okra
– Onions
– Squash (including zucchini)
If you’re looking for an alternative squash recipe (other than boiling it to death or deep frying it) consider this one:
2 crookneck yellow squash or zucchini, diced
1/2 yellow or red onion, diced (you can use more if you like onion!)
1 egg, beaten
Boil the squash and the onion together. Do not over-boil. The squash should be cooked through but not mushy. Drain well. (I like to blot with a paper towel to get as much water out of the squash as possible.) Spray a skillet with non-stick cooking spray and over medium heat, fry the squash and onion until lightly browned and dry. Add the beaten egg and toss until egg is cooked and evenly distributed throughout the squash. Salt and pepper to taste.