By: Jacqueline Gomes, RDN, MBA

April 20th, 2018

April 22^nd is Earth Day, and what better way to show appreciation for our planet then by adopting eco-friendly food habits. Chances are you might even improve your own health while doing so.

Believe it or not, the way we handle, use and choose our foods can play a major role in conserving energy and preserving the environment. Here are three ways you can implement change for a better Earth and a better you. 

1. Buy local, organic, and seasonal produce. By choosing produce wisely, you support local agricultural business, reduce harm to the environment caused by transport, and obtain foods at their peak nutritional quality!
2. Reuse cups, utensils and bottles. Plastic manufacturing is a large contributor of pollution. Wash and use your plastics multiple times to reduce waste. Properly recycle when it is time to dispose of these items.
3. Be mindful when you eat meat. Greenhouse gases produced from animal farming are one of the greatest sources of harmful emissions into the atmosphere, even more so than car pollution! Limit your consumption to reduce your carbon footprint; your overall health is likely to improve as well.

Eat Smart Tip: Focus on plant-based proteins and always include fruits and vegetables at each meal for the most in health benefits, both for you and our planet.

Three Bean Soup

Prep: 15 minutes

Cook: 10 Minutes

Serves: 6 Servings

Ingredients:

• 3 quarts vegetable stock
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans (drained)
• 1 (15-ounce) can garbanzo beans (drained)
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans (drained)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 2 ribs celery (diced)
• 3/4 cup onion (chopped)
• 1 small green bell pepper (diced)
• 1 small red bell pepper (diced)
• 8 cloves garlic (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• 1 teaspoon basil
• 1 cup dry pasta, Penne or Rotini
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• Pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. In a large soup or stockpot, combine everything except pasta, vinegar, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer partially covered until carrots are tender-crisp, stirring occasionally.
3. Add pasta and cook until tender, about 10 more minutes.
4. Stir in vinegar and season with pepper.