Veggies...what are they good for?

Edamame (Green Soybeans)

The soybean (U.S.) or soya bean (UK) (Glycine max) is a species of legume native to East Asia. [Also known as edamame] It is an annual plant that has been used in China for 5,000 years as a food and a component of drugs. Soy contains significant amounts of all the essential amino acids for humans, and so is a good source of protein. Soybeans are the primary ingredient in many processed foods, including dairy product substitutes.
(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soybean)

Spiced Edamame

· 2 teaspoons kosher salt
· 1 teaspoon chili powder
· 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
· 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
· 1-pound edamame, in the pod (green soy beans)

Heat the salt, chili powder, and pepper flakes in a small dry skillet over medium heat, stirring until hot and aromatic, about 3 minutes. Remove from the heat and crumble in the oregano.

Boil the edamame pods in salted water until tender, about 8 minutes. Drain in a colander and pat dry. Toss the edamame pods with the chili-salt and serve warm.
(http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/recipes/recipe/0,,FOOD_9936_28533,00.html)

Pasta with Broccoli, Edamame & Walnuts

· ¾ pound chunky pasta
· ¼ cup olive oil
· 4 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
· 3 cups bite-sized pieces of broccoli
· 1 cup shelled edamame
· ¾ teaspoon salt
· ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
· 1 cup chopped toasted walnuts
· Salt and pepper
· Grated Parmesan or Romano cheese

Bring a large covered pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente.

Meanwhile, warm 2 tablespoon s of the olive oil in a large skilled on low heat. Add the garlic and cook for a few seconds. Add the broccoli with about ½ cup of the hot pasta-cooking water, turn the heat to high and cook for about 2 minutes. Add the edamame, salt, and herbs. Continue to cool until the water evaporates and the broccoli is crisp-tender and bright green, about five minutes. Remove from the heat.

When the pasta is done, drain it. In a serving bowl, toss the pasta with the vegetable mixture, the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and the toasted chopped walnuts. Season with salt and pepper. Serve topped with grated cheese. (Moosewood Restaurant: Simple Suppers, p.22)