From the Plant-Rich Diet Team — September Food Facts & Recipes #3

When we cook a meal, many of us think primarily of the main ingredients — a protein source , vegetables, maybe a starch of some sort. But herbs and spices are healthy ingredients in their own right, and vegetarian dishes, particularly Middle Eastern and Asian-inspired ones, often make liberal use of them.

Some of the healthiest spices are turmeric, ginger and cinnamon, all of which are anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich. And cumin and cardamom are known to lower cholesterol and work as an anti-diabetic.

So the next time you plan a dinner (hopefully plant-based), why not try a recipe that uses some healthy spices, such as this lentil soup from Nutriciously — nutriciously.com/vegan-lentil-soup. It’s a perfect meal on a crisp, fall evening.

Enjoy!