host posted on February 25, 2008 12:44
February is a time of love. Valentine’s Day is also the day when we take our “better-half” out to an expensive fancy restaurant. Sounds nice, but how many of you actually know what you are eating? It may sound healthy but you may be getting more than you bargained for.
Here are some tips to look for when you’re out to eat:
1. When you see a sign that says “No Added MSG,” this means restaurant didn’t add MSG during their preparation. However, that doesn’t mean the manufacturer didn’t add it during its process. This is a common deception in Asian cuisine and large chain restaurants. Play it safe ask if there is ANY MSG.
2. Remember fresh is best. Ask your server if the salad comes in a bag; if it does, it's most likely loaded with nitrates. Although we’re told that the risk is low, nitrates can be converted to the more toxic nitrite via gastrointestinal reduction, which may cause a number of health challenges. Though low levels may be OK, high nitrate intake for a prolonged period should be avoided. When in doubt, ask if they use a local farmer for their produce. If they do, it means “fresh” in most cases.
3. Remember that sugar is the most common secret ingredient in food, pizza sauce, French fries, taco meat, and even hamburger buns.
4. At most restaurants, you don’t need to use the salt shaker, as most things already have salt and come pre-seasoned.
5. Did you know? Under federal legislation, no fast-food or chain restaurants are required to provide calorie, fat, or sodium information for any of their menu items unless they describe the items as "low sodium" or "low fat."
6. Ask if the restaurant uses synthetic food colorings. Some synthetic food colorings have been linked to irritability, restlessness, and sleep disturbance in children, so check first.
With these potential dangers abounding, why not treat your loved ones to an old-fashioned meal at home with candlelight? It’s more romantic, less expensive, and ultimately healthier.
Need an idea? Here’s one you’ll love!
Rosemary-Thyme Roasted Lamb ( Makes 6-10 servings)
6 cloves of garlic, chopped
1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
½ Tablespoon Thyme
1 tsp Freshly ground black pepper
1 (6-pound) boneless leg of lamb, trimmed and tied
2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
1 tsp lemon juice
Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Place the oven rack in the lower third of the oven so the lamb will rest in the middle of the oven.
Chop six cloves of garlic. Add the rosemary, thyme, 1 teaspoon pepper. Thoroughly coat the top and sides of the lamb with the herb mixture and olive oil.
Place in the bottom of a large roasting pan. Sprinkle lemon juice. Roast for 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature of the lamb is 135 degrees (rare) or 145 degrees (medium). Remove from the oven and put the lamb on a platter; cover. Allow the lamb to rest for about 20 minutes.
Relax and enjoy the time with your loved one!