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GOODNESS

Carrots: We all know that carrots are good for your eyes, but did you know they have anti-cancer properties as well? They have the nicely named carotenoids that are antioxidents -- chemicals that mop up the damage that results from ordinary metabolism. That, in turn, helps to keep your cells from turning rogue and hanging with the cancer gangs. If that's not enough to make you grab a carrot, they turn out to be immune-system stimulators as well, meaning you'll have fewer occasions to ask "What's up, doc?" Yes there's a little sugar in them, but also a lot of fiber to buffer it, so only the most sugar-restricted people should worry. By the way, the vitamin K in carrots is easier to absorb if you eat them with a bit of oil or fat, like a dip.
helps prevent cancer

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!
heart healthy, lowers blood pressure, prevents stroke, lowers bad cholesterol

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.
helps prevent inflammation

Recipe

Glazed Fingerling Potatoes and Baby Vegetables

serves
prep time: 10
cook time: 71

ingredients

1 pound fingerling or other new potatoes, halved lengthwise
1 1/2 pounds baby carrots with greens, peeled if desired and greens trimmed to 0.5 inch
1 1/2 pounds baby turnips (about 1 inch) with greens, greens trimmed to 0.5 inch
1/2 head new garlic or 3 large regular garlic cloves, thinly sliced
8 sprigs fresh thyme
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil
1 1/2 cups water
,
Garnish: fresh thyme sprigs

directions

Combine all ingredients except water and butter in a deep 12 inch heavy skillet or wide 3- to 1 1/2 gallons heavy pot and toss to coat with oil. Add water to skillet and bring to a boil. Cover skillet tightly and simmer vigorously over moderate heat, shaking skillet occasionally, until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.

Transfer vegetables with a slotted spoon to a platter, discarding thyme sprigs, then boil cooking liquid 1 minute to emulsify oil. Remove from heat and add butter, swirling skillet until butter is incorporated. Pour sauce over vegetables.

Cooks' note:

All ingredients except butter can be combined in skillet 1 hour ahead and kept, covered, at room temperature (make sure cut sides of potatoes are submerged in water).