Serendipitous Spinach

Serendipity is a great word that means a "happy accident" or "pleasant surprise".  That's just what we learned this week about our Superhero friend Manganese.  This amazing mineral is like a friend you never knew you had.  Even though it's a Trace Mineral (which means we only need a small amount) it packs a mighty healthy punch by helping everything from regulating blood sugar, strengthening bones and supporting cartilage.  It also helps other nutrients to do their job like biotin, thiamine, and choline, just to mention a few (all magnificent minerals  and vitamins we will learn about soon).

Spinach Omelet

Spinach is one of the greatest ways to get your Manganese (as well as 22 other vitamins and minerals).   Just one cup of this magic green food has 85% of your daily need for Manganese.  So dig in, whether it's chopped up in an omelet, blended in a smoothie, or tossed in a salad, your body and brain will thank you.

Try making this simple spinach salad for personal snack time or for your family to enjoy.

Spinach Berry Salad

Story Time:

Once upon a time I made a salad with no rules!!

I put a - handful of spinach,  a sprinkle of my favorite fresh berries (any kind you like), a few crumbles of feta cheese (or your favorite kind), and a few walnuts (peanuts and almonds are great too).

Then I used the same berries, another handful, mashed them with a fork until they got juicy, added a squeeze of lemon juice, a dash of sugar, and some olive oil.  I mixed it all together and gave it a taste.  (Add a bit more of this or that depending on your taste - remember your taste buds are boss).

I poured on the dressing (after I gave myself a high five for making my own salad dressing - seriously cool) and took a big bite of my serendipitous spinach berry salad.

I am awesome, I thought!!!

THE END

Yes, yes you are.  Congratulations on making your own powerhouse salad and dressing.  Now make another one for your family!

Your Turn:  What are some other ways that your family enjoys eating spinach?