GOODNESS
Garlic: Garlic is in the same family as onions and leeks, and purportedly provided ancient Roman soldiers the courage to battle the barbarians. Whether or not it gives you courage, it is known to lower blood pressure, which is great for your heart and helps prevent stroke. In addition, it has a long history as a digestive aid, so don't be shy with this wonderful herb, no matter what it does to your breath!

Sage: This delightful herb is a key player in some terrific recipes, but it is also a great purifier, fighting both bacteria and viruses. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory, and is used by many to ease the symptoms of arthritis. It also helps to lower blood pressure and control blood sugar. Like rosemary, it has been used since ancient times as a memory enhancer. Although it is just fine in foods, you should avoid excessive quantities of sage if you are pregnant.

Thyme: This aromatic herb has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties and contains thymol, a well-known antiseptic (you might be gargling with it). It's good for the digestion and is supposed to have some aphrodisiac qualities, although that just may be be due to the well-known connection between love and good food.
ADVERTISEMENT
Recipe

Buffalo Meatloaf with Spinach and Roasted Baby Potatoes

serves
prep time: 10
cook time: 77

ingredients

  • 1 pound baby Yukon Gold or Dutch yellow potatoes
  • 1/3 cup olive oil, divided
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped crimini (baby bella) mushrooms
  • 1 cup chopped red onion
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 pound ground buffalo meat
  • 1 large egg
  • 3/4 cup tomato sauce, divided
  • 1/2 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper
  • 1 garlic clove, pressed
  • 2 5 ounce bags fresh spinach

directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Toss potatoes with 1 tablespoon oil in medium bowl. Place on 13x9 inch rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan. Sprinkle with salt. Roast 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons oil in medium skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and onion, sauté, until mushrooms are beginning to brown and onion is translucent, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat, mix in sage and thyme. Cool slightly.

Mix buffalo, mushroom mixture, egg, 1/2 cup tomato sauce, panko, salt, and pepper in large bowl. Push potatoes to sides of baking sheet, shape buffalo mixture into 6x3 inch loaf in center of sheet. Roast 30 minutes. Combine 1/4 cup tomato sauce and red pepper in small bowl. Pour over top of meatloaf. Roast 20 minutes longer. Remove from oven, let rest while preparing spinach.

Heat remaining 2 tablespoons oil and garlic in large pot over medium-high heat. Add spinach, and toss until wilted, about 3 minutes. Season to taste with salt. Slice meatloaf, serve potatoes and spinach alongside.