Who wants watermelon?

When I was growing up, watermelons were a favorite summer time fruit in our household. On a hot day, the taste of a cool slice of watermelon (with a pinch of salt) was not only refreshing, but also helped us stay hydrated. My mom, who is a lover of watermelons herself, very rarely purchased the … Read More


Festive Fish Taco

Makes 4 servings (Serving Size: 2 tacos) This recipe is a 3-step recipe. First, make the salsa. Second, make the coleslaw. And third, cook the fish and assemble the tacos. The salsa and slaw can be made the day before to allow flavors to blend. SALSA – Ingredients: 1 mango, finely chopped ¼ cup green … Read More


Freezing fruits and vegetables for "plan-overs"

Let me tell you, I recently stumbled upon a few great resources for freezing fruits and vegetables. Planning my meals has been a top priority, but with the abundance of local North Carolina produce here in the summer, it has become increasingly important to me to make the most out of my purchases. Before I … Read More


Quick and Healthy Homemade Pizza

When my children were young, they always asked for pizza, so I decided that we would start making our own. Ours were not only healthier pizzas, but also more economical. This also gave us an opportunity to “cook” together, providing us with another fun family activity. Here are some of my suggestions: Start with a … Read More


NC EFNEP's Peach Pointers

North Carolina peaches are a great summertime fruit.  They are most abundant and least expensive June through September. Learn how to select, store, and prepare them in this short video.https://youtu.be/_37xcn1ImSMFor the recipes featured in the video, check the links below: Peach Salsa: http://www.great-salsa.com/peachsalsarecipes.html Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Peach Marinade: http://www.food.com/recipe/grilled-chicken-with-balsamic-peach-marinade-133801 Spinach Salad with Peaches and … Read More


Strawberry Season

My family can’t eat enough strawberries at this time of year! They are a good value at the farmers markets and grocery stores. Be careful to only purchase what you will use within a couple of days, to avoid having the strawberries get moldy and go bad. If you plan to buy strawberries in bulk, … Read More


Pizza Meat Loaf

Looking for recipes that will help you prepare balanced meals for your family on a tight budget? Check out the cookbook. It’s a great guide created specifically to help those of us on a budget plan and prepare healthy, thrifty meals for our families. Whether for breakfast, lunch or dinner, this cookbook is a winner! … Read More



Sweet Potato Recipes

Oven Fries  Makes 6 servings Serving Size: 10 fries Ingredients Non-stick cooking spray 4 medium baking potatoes or sweet potatoes 2 tablespoons oil seasonings (optional)* *Try one or several of these seasonings: salt, pepper, seasoning salt, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika Directions Preheat oven to 475°F. Lightly spray baking sheet with non-stick cooking … Read More


No salt added!

When my dad was diagnosed with high blood pressure his doctor told him to avoid adding salt to his food and to choose foods that are low to no sodium. Of course my dad thought he would never enjoy food again. I knew I had to help. I showed him and my mom how to … Read More


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Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP)

North Carolina State University
Agricultural and Human Sciences Department

Cooperative Extension at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (CAES)