Calling all pasta lovers around the world! What better dish is there to bring to your next summer BBQs and beach picnics than a homemade macaroni salad or macaroni casserole? Did you know that macaroni is one of the largest varieties of dry pasta? In fact, in the US alone the elbow macaroni noodle is…

The July weather is perfect for sitting outside and relaxing, which is one of the reasons National Picnic Month is celebrated in July. Grab a basket, and some friends to celebrate, after all some of the best foods are eaten on the go.   When packing your basket full of treats there are some food…

Did you know there are approximately 40,000 bean varieties in the world? Pinto beans, lima beans, baked beans, chickpeas, there are so many to choose from. Beans are quite well known for being an excellent source of protein and fiber.   Beans have a lot to offer when it comes to nutritional benefits! They are…

What’s a better way to celebrate summer than enjoying a scoop (or two!) of your favorite ice cream? The month of July is National Ice Cream Month, and it’s the perfect time to enjoy this nice ice-cold treat.   Did you know that vanilla is the most popular ice cream flavor? However, there a ton…

As the availability of vaccines spreads, the world is slowly beginning to open back up again. For months, many people have been separated from their closest loved ones and friends. Although people have been able to connect over webcams and online meetings, nothing can replace human-to-human interaction. Gradually a return to normalcy has begun, and…

Did you know that batology isn’t the study of bats? It’s the study of berries! Celebrate these pulpy and delicious fruits this July for National Berry Month.   It makes sense that July is home to this national holiday because it is the month when berries are at their peak. There are so many different…

Many complications can occur during pregnancy such as birth injuries and preterm labor. However, recent research suggests that a healthy diet during conception and into the second trimester can help reduce the rate of complications. Mothers in the study who ate a well-balanced diet high in produce, whole grains, nut, and legumes had a reduced…

It is finally summer! There is no better way to celebrate the start of this warm weather season than with a bowl of fresh produce for National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month. While fruit and vegetables make a great snack any time of year, there is nothing better than chilled juicy watermelon on a hot…

Did you know that June 21st is the first official day of summer? There is no better way to kick off the first day of summer than with a nice, cold, refreshing smoothie. On June 21st not only is it the start of a great season but it’s also National Smoothie Day!   Celebrate the…

With the first day of summer just a few days away, it’s the perfect time to head outside and enjoy the warm weather. And, what’s a better way to celebrate nice weather than by having a picnic. Grab a basket, some sandwiches, and head to your neighborhood park this June 18th for International Picnic Day….

Did you know that there are certain diseases and illnesses that men are more prone to than women? Men typically have a shorter life expectancy than women. That is why this week in June, the 14th to the 20th, International Men’s Health Week is celebrated.   Early detection is key when it comes to the…

What ingredient can turn a bland meal into something very flavorful? If you were thinking of spices or herbs, you were right! I can’t think of a better way to celebrate National Herbs and Spices Day on June 10th than trying out a new dish with your least used spices.   While you can always…

Whether you’re a first-time gardener or a seasoned pro, get your seeds and soil ready because this week is National Garden Week! During the first full week of June, it is all about learning and celebrating the wonderful benefits of gardening. From having endless fresh fruits and vegetables to providing a sense of community and beauty…

Can you name a food that can be used in smoothies, cereals, and coffee? If you were thinking milk, you are right! This nutritious beverage is celebrated all month long for National Dairy Month.   National Dairy Month began in 1939 as a way to encourage families to drink more milk. Grocers across the nation…

For the last year, the world has been turned upside down and everyone’s daily lives have been interrupted. From “commuting” to work to social events, there is no normal anymore. Every aspect of life has been disrupted, which includes eating.   Scientists have studied the impact that the pandemic has had on eating habits. They…

Memorial Day weekend is upon us which means that it is the start of grilling season. What better way to kick off the unofficial beginning of summer than with a nice juicy hamburger? Celebrate this barbeque favorite on May 28th for National Hamburger Day. Clean off your grills and great ready for some delicious hamburgers….

On May 25th, it’s all about throwing it back to an old school tradition, the classic “brown bag” lunch. It’s National Brown Bag It Day! On this “retro” day, it’s a reminder for everyone to skip the restaurant or cafeteria lunch for the day and pack your own lunch from home.   3 Benefits to…

Did you know that 350 slices of pizza are eaten each second in the United States? That should come as no surprise considering pizza is one of America’s favorite foods! Celebrate this delicious crowd-pleasing food on May 21st for National Pizza Party Day (and it’s my birthday, so another reason to celebrate!)   This fun…

In many cultures, it’s customary to begin a meal with a salad. From Greek to Caesar, there is an abundance of salads to choose from. Grab a wooden bowl, tongs, and toss together your favorite mixed greens for National Salad Month this May.   Salads can be a prelude to a meal or a meal…

Mother’s Day is May 9th this year, but it is also the beginning of National Women’s Health Week! What better way to honor a mother, sister, aunt, or friend than by committing to getting healthier together. This is a great opportunity to join together and make your health a top priority. Now more than ever…