An Apple A Day

Benjamin Franklin say an apple a day will keeps the doctor away. Sixteen different biologic polyphenols were found in apples and especially in their skins. Polyphenols have a variety of different functions in the human body, including acting as antioxidants. These newly detected polyphenols may be responsible for some of the health-promoting effects of apples recognized by Franklin more than 200 years ago. But, the apples in Franklin’s day weren’t treated with toxic or persistent pesticides. Today, apples are on the list of the most contaminated fruits and vegetables published by the Environment Working Group, based on analysis of over 100,000 government reports. But an organic apple a day (the way they used to be grown) is still a great way to keep the doctor away – according to both old wisdom and 21st century science. Here is my favourite apple recepies.

Apple and Wilted Lettuce Salad

With its hot beef bacon dressing, this salad won't wait for late-comers to the table; be sure to dress it just before serving

6 cups torn romaine lettuce
4 cups torn green or red leaf lettuce
2 Red or Golden Delicious apples, cored and sliced
1/2 cup sliced celery
6 slices beef bacon
1/3 cup cider vinegar (normal vinegar will do)
1/4 cup water
1 package (.6-ounce) Italian salad dressing mix
2 teaspoons sugar
1/4 cup sliced green onion
Ground black pepper

Method:

In large serving bowl, combine romaine, leaf lettuce, apples, and celery; set aside.
In skillet, fry beef bacon until crisp; reserve drippings. Drain and crumble beef bacon into salad. In same skillet, combine reserved beef bacon drippings, the vinegar, water, salad dressing mix, and sugar; heat to boiling. Pour over salad. Top with green onion and black pepper; toss salad gently. Serve immediately.