A few of my favourite veggie things

Thank goodness February is almost over. Finding good things about this month is very difficult. Good moods are few and far between, and it seems so appropriate to cuddle on the couch with some chips and watch American Idol. So, in order to boost my spirits (and perhaps yours!) I am going to focus on the positives, things which I have discovered during the month of February.1. Whole Foods Market

I know a lot of opinions vary about natural and organic foods. Some people only buy organic, while others (probably the majority) think its a hoax. As I've mentioned several times, I LOVE food. Like, seriously have a mad crush on it. I get excited when 6pm comes around, just so I can cook. Last week, a girlfriend and I discovered Whole Foods. I've been commuting to Oakville for almost 6 months, and had yet to step foot into this place. An hour later, we both left with huge smiles on our faces. The variety is amazing, freshness bar none, and most importantly, the prices were not too insane. Now, I didn't buy everything organic, which cost a bit more, but all in all, what I paid here was just slightly higher than any other grocer. But, the foods I got were made with natural ingredients, and I got foods which I couldn't find anywhere else. I have a new crush, and its name is Whole Foods.

2. Spicy Mixed Nuts

Amazing. Simply amazing. I have already sent this recipe to several people and all love it. I got it from Skinny Bitch in the Kitch. Here is the recipe:

1 egg

2 tablespoons warm water

1 pound roasted, salted mixed nuts

1/3 cup sugar

2 teaspoons salt

1.5 teaspoons cayenne powder

Preheat oven to 250F

In a medium bowl, whisk the egg and water until foamy. Add the nuts and toss to coat. Transfer the nuts to a strainer and let drain for at least 2 minutes.

Meanwhile, wipe out the bowl and combine the sugar, salt and cayenne. Add the nuts, tossing to coat. Spread the nuts in a single layer on a large rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 40 minutes. Stir with a spatula and spread the nuts out again. Reduce heat to 200F and bake another 30 minutes, or until dry.

They nuts will crisp as they cool to room temperature. Thoroughly cooled, they can be stored for up to one week in an airtight container.

If you try this and don't like it.....then....I just don't know. Side note, you don't need this much sugar. I use about 1/2 a cup and if I need more than gingerly add it while coating the nuts.

3. M.I.A.

I know this doesn't directly link to food, but, exercise is a part of a veggie lifestyle. I saw Slumdog Millionaire in January, and earlier this month decided to download some of the songs. O Saya is an absolutely amazing song. The beat is great for running, especially when you are about to approach a really tough hill or need that extra bit of motivation. I've downloaded a couple of her songs and they make running that much easier.

So there you go- 3 little things which help make this month that much more bareable.

peace, love and carrots.