In which I talk about my lunch.

My family is notorious for discussing food to an extent that most others find ridiculous. Our family newsletter is as much a food log as a diary. This includes detailed descriptions of any important meals, along with pictures. Let me see if I can locate one (I'm on my parents' computer)...

There we go. Not sure what this is or what the occasion was, but judging by the pointsetta I'd say Christmas or new year's. I had no idea this was abnormal until I went to college - about the same time that I realized the retort "what, do you have a piano tied to your arm?" and the exclamation "it's colder than a well digger's boot in here" were also unique.

Anywho, I was making myself a delicious arugula salad for lunch today and I found myself wondering exactly what sort of nutrient value the ingredients have. So, afterwards, I looked it up - we love the internet. I was surprised by some of the results (from Nutrition Data, a handy li'l website). There may or may not be commentary inserted.

Arugula: a good source of Protein, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Vitamin B6, Pantothenic Acid, Zinc and Copper (mm, can't get enough copper these days...), and a very good source of Dietary Fiber, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Folate, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium and Manganese.

Avocado: a good source of Dietary Fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin K and Folate. (Also a good source of deliciousness.)

Raw Broccoli: a good source of Protein (! protein? really? broccoli is a good source of protein. ok), Vitamin E, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Pantothenic Acid, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus and Selenium, and a very good source of Dietary Fiber, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Vitamin B6, Folate, Potassium and Manganese.

Pumpkin Seeds: a good source of Protein, Vitamin K, Iron and Copper, and a very good source of Magnesium, Phosphorus and Manganese. (also the number one aphrodisiac for males, apparently. I hear it's chocolate for women).

Roasted Almonds: a good source of Magnesium, and a very good source of Vitamin E (Alpha Tocopherol) and Manganese.

Goat Cheese: a good source of Protein and Copper. (Copper! Really? If so, I am all set for my copper intake, thank you.)

Olive Oil: well, well, well... what've we got here? some omega-3's, some Vitamin E and K? Alright.

Balsamic Vinegar: Trace amounts of lots of stuff, sugar (YES), and ... I'm sorry... ash? What?


A few things concluded:

• Yes. I am a nerd.
• I'm a bit iffy on our source here. But that's ok. My curiosity is satisfied.

p.s. - try the salad, it's delicious.