Plant-Based Eating . Is It For You?

Being vegan for me is more than just a way of eating—it’s a lifestyle rooted in awareness, health, and compassion. For me, it’s about making choices that nourish my body while also being thoughtful to the rest of the planet and all who live on it.  

That’s why I love sharing plant-based recipes, hoping to inspire others to explore healthier, more intentional ways of eating. But I often wonder—does this resonate with you? Have you ever tried one of my recipes or thought about including more plant-based foods into your diet, even if you’re not vegan?

Beyond recipes, I also care deeply about what’s actually in our food and the overall impact of processed foods have on our health. With growing concerns about GMOs, harmful pesticides in our produce, and heavy metals, such as lead and cadmium, in most of of our spices, I believe we all deserve transparency, education, and awareness about what we’re putting into our bodies and how it's affecting us, our planet, and our water supply. Awareness, not fear, is the key. That’s why I try to focus on whole (not processed), nourishing foods and ingredients I can trust ( If I can find them).

I know many people don't believe that organic (less pesticides) is not any better than those grown with a full spectrum of pesticides. Or those that feel safe using plastic water bottles or plastic to store food or use in the microwave. Many eat many processed foods and are comfortable with it. It's hard to know who is right. Yet, we see that the rate of cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol are in astronomical numbers, while research indicates they are correlations between what and how we eat and disease.

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Are these topics important to you? Do you like to see my recipes, discussions on food quality, or both? 

Whether you eat plant-based or are looking for inspiration for plant-based recipe ideas, simply like my delicious food, or are here out of courtesy for me visiting your blog, I do appreciate you being here and your comments. I've just been curious. I would love to hear your feedback and thoughts. 

My Notes: 

I am a Whole Foods vegan by choice. 

I am gluten-free because of Celiac and get very sick if I consume gluten.

IN MY KITCHEN - MARCH 2025

I'm in my Florida condo for the winter season. I cook about 4 nights a week, and we eat out about 3 nights a week. It seems to be the way everyone socializes (and puts on weight). Of course the weather is warm, so it makes it easy to be out and about and even walk to some of the restaurants.   

I'm joining Sherry and other bloggers for In My Kitchen monthly blog share hosted by Sherry's Pickings where any blogger can join in! 

This is what has been going on in my kitchen this past month. 

Sweet and Sour Cabbage Side Dish

If you are a fan of cabbage, you will love this easy to make sweet and sour side dish. It can be made using either red or green cabbage or a combination of both.  Your choice!

Made with white cabbage

Mardi Gras

Although I have never been to New Orleans, it is on my list of places to visit. However, I doubt I would ever consider visiting during Mardi Gras, because it would be too wild and crazy for me. 

I don't know much about Mardi Gras except that they eat gumbo and jambalaya, King bread and Po' Boy sandwiches. I also know that the predominant colors are purple, gold, and green. and they wear costumes and have parades! 

 I did a little research on the history and origins of Mardi Gras.