I grew up with mashed potatoes that came from flakes in a box, peaches that came from heavy syrup in a can, and iced tea that came from powder in a jar.
“Fresh” was not an adjective one would use regarding food in our home. Fast, yes. Frozen, yes. Fresh, no.
In fact, it wasn’t until my twenties that I really started learning about fresh ingredients, cooking, and baking. As a kid, I thought cake mix in a box was what people referred to as “making it from scratch”.
The fact that I am now familiar with the concept of fresh food doesn’t necessarily mean I partake in its healthiness and deliciousness as often as I should. Or really at all, when I’m in my own home.
I eat way too much fast food. And my cooking is mostly limited to placing frozen food stuffs into the microwave.
Luckily, many of my friends are fantastic cooks. And I’m always knocked out by what their culinary creations do to my rather sheltered taste buds. And these delectable dishes are undoubtedly much healthier than my usual fare.
My ears always perk up when they say, “Oh it’s so easy…” And then they lose me by the fourth ingredient. My brain just shuts off like it does after the fourth step in an algebraic formula.
Spirited women know it’s never too late to turn over a new leaf. And things are going to change around here. This week I bought flour tortillas, cheddar cheese, tomatoes, red onions, avocados, and cilantro. Then I made a Mexican pizza. Upon the first bite, I dubbed it “Pizza del Delicioso Muy Muy”. And I have to tell you, it kicked my usual frozen pizza’s butt.
I don’t plan to become Julia Child. But I also don’t plan to continue relying solely on fast or frozen food at mealtimes. Fresh is good -- fresh air, fresh linens, fresh flowers, fresh food, and best of all -- a fresh start!
- Monica Regal
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