Nichole Dandrea-Russert, MS, RDN

From their early days of cultivation to their status as a food of the gods in ancient Rome, walnuts have long provided top-notch nutrition and unmatched flavor. In this article, we dive into the world of walnuts, including the different types, how to store and toast them, and how to include them in both sweet and savory dishes.

Sweet potatoes are one of the most versatile and delicious foods out there — and they’re incredibly healthy to boot. From their origins in the highlands of Peru to their place on the festive tables of England’s King Henry VIII, societies have long had a love affair with these colorful tubers. So let’s find out how to choose, store, and prepare sweet potatoes to eat them on a regular basis.

If making homemade vegetable broth is new to you, get ready for a few perks! From a culinary perspective, making your own vegetable broth is fun and flavorful, and it allows you to experiment with a variety of vegetables (and vegetable parts!). From an environmental standpoint, you avoid food waste and unnecessary packaging that comes with store-bought brands. And, from a cost-savings mindset, you’ll save money. Check out this article on how making homemade vegetable broth can be easy and versatile in a variety of plant-based recipes.

People who are die-hard meat lovers aren’t always open to going plant-based, even if it could benefit their health in some way. And oftentimes, if you try to convince them otherwise, that can actually fuel their reluctance and resistance. So what can you do to help the people in your life embrace healthier food options and gradually shift toward a more plant-based lifestyle?

Halloween isn’t exactly known for its health-conscious treats. But you can have a happy and healthy Halloween by using whole, plant-based ingredients to create your own festive goodies. Indulge in the spirit of Halloween (without overindulging in added sugar) with these seven healthy Halloween recipes that are fun for all ages!

Discover the mouthwatering world of umami, the so-called “fifth flavor.” Recognized in the West only for the last few decades, umami foods have long occupied a place of pride in traditional Asian cuisines. But there’s been concern about the use of the flavor enhancer MSG, a synthetic source of umami often associated with Chinese restaurants. So is there a difference between MSG and natural sources of umami? And can we enjoy umami flavor from plant-based sources?

Grapes have evolved from being solely used for wine into a popular snack in their own right. This article explores the natural sweetness and versatility of fresh grapes, offering tips on choosing, storing, and cleaning them to preserve their flavor. Unlock the secrets to enjoying this delicate fruit in various ways, from freezing them to incorporating them into both sweet and savory recipes.

Figs are far more than cookie fillings and strategically-placed leaves in Bible paintings. Discover the versatility of figs in enhancing various dishes, from desserts to savory meals. Learn how to choose, store, and make the most of the nutritious fig, a natural sweetener that can elevate your culinary game.

If you don’t have a solid plan to use up produce or know how to properly store it, your vibrant, nutritious, and flavorful fruits and vegetables can quickly transform into mush. And wasted food is wasted time, money, and resources. It can also put a wrench in your meal plans. And food waste has a detrimental impact on the planet. This article and video provide tips on how to extend the shelf life of and use up, fruits, veggies, and herbs in a variety of culinary applications to avoid waste and get the most out of your food.

Potassium is an essential nutrient for health, participating in every biological process that relies on electrical signals, including heartbeat, muscle firing, and nervous system activity. But many people in the modern world are potassium deficient, which has contributed to an epidemic of high blood pressure and other chronic diseases. So why is this? Is potassium hard to obtain from food or necessary to supplement? Get the facts on this critical mineral and electrolyte.

Papayas are less well-known than some other tropical fruits. But they deserve just as much attention as, say, pineapples or mangoes. This article provides tips on how to select and use papayas, including how to pick a ripe one, how to cut and store them, and a variety of recipe ideas to incorporate papayas into your diet.

Summer squash is a versatile and abundant vegetable. But sometimes, it can be difficult to know how to deal with the sheer volume that comes from the garden. Or even what to do with it when it’s available at the grocery store or farmers market. How do you select, store, and prepare summer squash for maximum nutrition and culinary value? And what are some creative ways to cook it and make the most of a summer harvest?