Keep this on hand for a quick meal, or prepare in batches to give as gifts.

Mix pasta, spinach, beets, onion and walnuts in a salad bowl. Combine maple syrup, vinegar and olive oil in a small jar and shake well. Pour over salad. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until you're ready to eat.

Process the beans and spices in a blender, then refrigerate until ready to serve with baked corn chips or toasted whole-wheat pita triangles.

Bananas that are getting past ripe work perfectly in smoothies. Peel them, wrap them in plastic, and freeze them.

Farmers across the country raise this sweet, slightly nutty-tasting fish.

A flavorful soup that's a snap to prepare.

You don't have to tell anyone these are homemade, healthy granola bars. Just let your guests enjoy the chewiness of the oats and dense chocolate flavor from the highest-quality dark chocolate you can find.

In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and pot herbs.

Toss wheat cereal and cashews with raisins, dried blueberries, dried cranberries, or chopped dried apricots.

Put all ingredients in blender and blend for about 20 seconds. If mixture is too thick, add a little more vegetable broth. Serve hot or cold.