How Can I Find the Best Choices at Restaurants for My Whole Family?

Schools nationwide have opened their doors for a new academic year launching the annual back-to-school rush.  Families like yours are once again falling into a busy routine of school, homework and after-school activities, making family meals a little harder to come by.  There’s no doubt, according to research, that these family meals can have a positive …

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What Are the Best Heart Healthy Choices at Vietnamese Restaurants?

Q:  I was recently placed on a low-sodium, low-fat diet after I was diagnosed with congestive heart failure.  What are the best dishes to choose at a Vietnamese restaurant? Good nutrition and lifestyle are an important part of heart health.  In general, it is best to choose whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean protein, low-fat or …

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Roasted Tomato Salsa from Taco John’s

Whether it’s an evening gathering or Sunday football, spice it up with fresh roasted tomato salsa! Makes 3 Cups Salsa Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs ripe red tomatoes (round or Roma)                                                ½ lb tomatillos, peeled ½ lb sweet onion, peeled and cut into ½ thick slices                                 2 jalapeños                ½ bunch fresh cilantro, leaves only, chopped                                                                     Juice …

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Do you use MSG?

MSG (monosodium glutamate) is an additive used to highlight flavors found in foods, including canned soups and processed meats.  It’s also often used by Chinese restaurants and sometimes may also be contained in ingredients used by other kinds of restaurants.  Some of the restaurants that participate in Healthy Dining may use MSG in the preparation …

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Noodles vs. Pasta?

Question: I use the terms “noodles” and “pasta” interchangeably—but I’m not sure that I should. Can you tell me what the difference is between the two? Answer: Excellent question! If you’re referring to pasta, then you’re OK using either term—because pasta is a type of noodle. However, noodles are not a type of pasta. (Think about bread; English muffins …

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