Have a Cornucopia of Corn This Summer!

Everyday, you could be eating corn and not even know it. Chances are, if you purchase a processed product from the market aisles, or even make a trip to the fast food joint, then you’re buying corn. I’m not just talking about the cereals or popcorn; anything from ketchup to soda to even fresh ground beef used to be corn at one point. How does corn appear in all of those products?

Corn is a highly subsidized crop in the U.S., meaning that corn farmers get government money for growing the crop. This keeps the prices low- low enough for large corporations to use corn in many of their products, making most of the corn to be used for processing, not for eating fresh. Corn sweeteners, like high fructose corn syrup, are used in many products, which many believe causes an unhealthy effect on consumers. Sodas, sweetened cereals, and even pasta sauces might contain this cheap sugar substitute. Since there is such an abundance of corn in this country, much of it is used to feed cattle and other livestock. Cows are by nature a grass-eating animal, but because of the cheap price of corn, cows are now mostly grain-fed. So, yes, even the meat you eat was corn at one point.

But the best way to enjoy corn is to know that you’re eating it so you can really enjoy it. It tastes good and is good for you, so just eat it! Corn is so versatile because it can either be eaten as a vegetable or like a grain.And, you can eat it at any time of day during any meal.

Try these for taste:

Breakfast:

• Corn cereals
• Grits
• Pozole

Lunch:

• Corn Salad
• Corn Tortilla Tacos
• Grilled corn
• Corn fritters
• Corn chowder

Dinner:

• Tamales
• Polenta-crust pizza
• Pupusas
• Corn Bread
• Creamed corn

Desert:

• Corn pudding

Drink:

• Atole or champurrado
• Chicha and chicha morado

Snacks:

• Blue corn chips
• Popcorn

Despite all of the many ways to enjoy corn, one of the best ways is corn on the cob. It doesn’t get simpler than that. Sweet corn is a popular variety to enjoy because it tastes great by itself! Especially during the summer months, when corn is in season, you’ll find the cheapest and tastiest varieties. Throw a few ears on the grill and or boil in a pot, husks and all, after 15 minutes or so, you’ll have warm and juicy corn. The only processing you’ll need is to peel the husk. But if you do like a little bit of flavor, try light seasonings like little bit of salt and pepper, lime, or chili powder.

Corn isn’t just a tasty bite to eat because it’s quite healthy for you too. Corn contains antioxidants to help fight cancer and disease and it can help your heart stay healthy with folate. The healthiest way to enjoy it is to eat it fresh or quickly cooked, because after factory processing some vitamins and minerals get lost. And you can’t forget that corn is a whole grain, giving you a good dose of fiber, protein, and carbohydrates with every crunch.

Take advantage of this time of year and eat sweet, fresh corn as much as possible. Make it a point to bring corn to a picnic BBQ. Have a weekly grill night. Use leftovers in a salad or soup. Once you’ve had enough, keep some in the freezer to pop out for those cold fall nights when all you can do is reminisce about summer days and the juicy kernels of corn.

For more on corn, check out the documentary, King Corn.

M.I.S.S. Healthy Bites: Get Your Grill On

Now that we’ve equipped you with the M.I.S.S. Summer BBQ Playlist, you’ve got to come correct.  If you’re lucky enough to have a 3 day weekend, try to spend today on the healthy tip….in front of the BBQ. While hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, and soda usually define the typical barbeque cuisine, don’t limit yourself to quick and easy unhealthy choices. With a little determination, you can get your grill on with fresh vegetables and perfectly marinated meat. Just don’t be scared to handle the flame!

For the carnivores, the key to a delicious BBQ is to get your marinade right. There are so many concoctions out there that it may be difficult to select just one to fit your palette. From soy sauce to honey to soda and even beer, most marinades originate from creativity. My suggestion is to raid your fridge and your pantry to mix up your own secret recipe. Soak your favorite cuts of meat overnight if possible for maximum flavor, but if you’re crunched for time, a few hours will be enough to make your BBQ finger lickin’ good.

To have a balanced meal, you can’t forget about the vegetables. Grilling vegetables take healthy eating to a whole new level. The smoky flavors from the flame usually enhance the sweetness of different vegetables, which is why so many restaurants use grilled veggies in their popular dishes. It’s a taste of it’s own! You can use your favorite marinade recipe, but usually, the best seasoning for grilled vegetables is something simple. Brush on a flavorful oil, like olive or sesame, and sprinkle with sea salt and pepper. You can even add a splash of lemon or a blend of your favorite spices for more kick. Those simple ingredients will boost the flavor, allowing you to get a full taste of the vegetable.

Which veggies go great on the grill? Try:

• Corn
• Peppers
• Onions
• Zucchini
• Asparagus
• Portabellos
• Squash
• Tomatoes

After you marinate, how will you grill it?

• On skewers?
• Wrapped in foil?
• In a grill basket?
• Straight on the grill (which leaves those oh-so-attractive grill marks)?

How you present your food for your folks is almost important as how it tastes, so make sure your meat is well done (or medium, if you prefer) and done well. And…if you care about your peoples, you should remind them that the delicious meat that you made is full of protein to build muscles and strengthen hair and nails. Don’t forget to mention that the fresh-grilled vegetables contain fiber to clean the digestive system, and are loaded with an assortment of different vitamins and antioxidants. Sharing is caring so pass the plate and educate.

Chow!

Summer, Summer, Summertiiiiiiiiiime! Introducing M.I.S.S. July, the Upper Playground Adidas Superstar BBQ. Part of the 35th Anniversary Expression Series, what doesn’t say Summer more than a BBQ! So you know we had to hook up some finger lick’n nails…all the necessities for your ‘Q: Hot Dogs, Chips ‘n Dip (please believe those are real chips and French onion dip, we certainly don’t play, especially when it comes to nails…and food!), Drank, Hamburger on a Sesame seed bun, and some watermelon! Just thinking of summer and bbq’s brings to mind a certain back ‘n the day song…and so we leave you with this…

Yeah I got on sneaks but I need a new pair
Cause basketball courts in the summer got girls there
The temperatures about 88
Hop in the water plug just for old times sake
Break to ya crib change your clothes once more
Cause you’re invited to a barbecue that’s starting at 4
Sitting with your friends cause y’all reminisces
About the days growing up and the first person you kiss
And as I think back makes me wonder how
The smell from a grill could spark up nostalgia*

*All song Lyrics from “Summertime” by Will Smith…Duh!

Adidas Superstar 35th Anniversary Expression Series #14, Shoes Courtesy of Upper Playground
A Smoke & Mirrors Creative Production
Download the M.I.S.S. July calendar here and the desktop here.

Links to previous month’s calendars and desktops after the jump . . .

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The Dime Piece ladies have invited you to join them at Joyrich this Sunday MAY 18th for a YARD SALE + BBQ from 12 – 6.  Dimepiece will be selling samples from Summer 07 and Holiday 07 for 50% off!

7700 Melrose Ave in the Back Alley of JOYRICH!