Although the prickly hairs of the stinging nettle plant are not enjoyable for our skin, the benefits of ingesting these spinach-like green weeds are incredible. High in minerals including calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus and manganese, nettles are also an excellent source of vitamin C, B complex vitamins and beta-carotene. The plant also acts as a mucus- clearing expectorant for treating asthma and chest colds, and its high iron levels can alleviate anemia and poor circulation. Surprisingly enough, nettles even contain 10 percent protein--more than any other vegetable--and thus contain high levels of easily absorbable amino acids. No wonder these greens were used in several types of recipes to cure weakness, illness and allergies in several cultures around the world!

It's nearly spring; in some places, you can almost feel it creeping in. But we still have a few more weeks to wait until spring produce makes itself available. Until then, consider the humble turnip, a root vegetable that is the perfect addition to your Meatless Monday meals. The turnips themselves are rich in antioxidants and potassium, and when the greens are attached, you also get a heaping serving of calcium, vitamins K and A, and beta carotene. The sweet turnips and bitter greens are easy to use in a number of different recipes.

It wasn't too long ago that beets were unknown to many, save in pickled and canned form. But today, most of us have embraced beets in all their forms: red or yellow, roasted or boiled, cold or warm, in salads or in soups. We're even cooking up beet greens and serving them for dinner! But there is even more to learn about beets: what about the heirloom varieties? Today, we're taking a closer look at the beautiful and delicious Chioggia heirloom beet, with its surprising, candy-striped interior.

Sourdough bread is the perfect thing to have on-hand: swipe it with butter and jam for a delicious breakfast; use it as sandwich bread to surround your favorite fillings. Having sourdough dough, though, is even better. Not only can you vary the ways in which you use the bread, but you can even use the dough to create a variety of different recipes. There are studies that have shown that sourdough may be edible for people with gluten intolerance. And the best part of all… it’s easy to make at home!

Looking for a sneaky way to get more fruits and vegetables in your (or your kids') diet? Try these six fruit and vegetable purees for moister, healthier baked goods. Purees are excellent fat substitutes in baking. All you need to know is which flavors work best for the type of baking you're doing. Choosing the right puree can add nutrients that might not otherwise be available in your baked goods. 

With Lent in full swing, you might be looking for easy, and delicious, fish and meatless recipes for upcoming Fridays. Use sustainable low-toxin fish to try these three preparations that focus on flavor and seasonal ingredients.

Beans can be a meatless meal planner's best friends. They're chock full of plant proteins, making them a filling addition to any meal. And because of their mild flavor, they're extremely versatile! But don't take our word for it: take a look at some of our all-time favorite red bean recipes and see for yourself how much red beans can bring to your meatless Monday meals.

Cooking pasta is as simple as dumping noodles into a pot of boiling water—but there are certain tips that chefs use to make sure their pasta comes out perfect every time. To prevent sticky noodles, un-stick them in a snap, and get other essential pasta cooking tips, read on.

There are infinite ways to use eggs in the kitchen, but did you know that eggs can also be a useful beauty and household item? Just as they have a place in just about every cuisine, eggs also come quite in handy around the house. From glistening leather to a gleaming complexion, discover how these 20 unusual ways to use eggs can improve your life.

Valentine's Day may not fall on a Monday this year, but that's no reason not to make this meatless Monday romantic. Serve up some of our favorite romantic meatless recipes to kick the week off to a great start. You can even save some of your favorites for the 14th!