Vegas Veggies: Desert Air Stealing B Youth?
By Franklin Everett ShawForget those expensive anti-aging creams promising miracles. The secret to youthful skin and a vibrant body might be growing right here in our Las Vegas backyards, or waiting for you at the local farmer’s market. We’re talking about desert-adapted vegetables, specifically purslane and tepary beans.
These aren’t your average grocery store finds. They’re nutritional powerhouses perfectly suited to thrive in our harsh climate, and even better, they can help you thrive in it too.
Let’s dive into how Las Vegas residents can harness the power of these “Vegas Veggies” for a youthful glow and overall well-being.
First, let’s talk about purslane. This unassuming succulent is often considered a weed, but it’s actually a nutritional goldmine.
Purslane is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, even more than some fish oils! These healthy fats are crucial for skin elasticity, reducing inflammation, and keeping your heart healthy.
It’s also a fantastic source of Vitamin A, a powerful antioxidant that fights free radical damage, a major contributor to aging.
Look for purslane at the Downtown 3rd Farmers Market on weekends. You’ll want to find plants with vibrant green leaves and firm stems. Avoid any that look wilted or yellowing.
Now, how do you prepare it? Raw is best for preserving its nutrients. Add it to salads for a lemony, slightly peppery kick.
You can also lightly sauté it with garlic and olive oil for a quick and healthy side dish. Don’t overcook it, or it will become slimy.
A common mistake is not washing purslane thoroughly. It grows close to the ground, so it can be sandy. Soak it in cold water for a few minutes, then rinse it well.
For a DIY skincare boost, try this purslane face mask: Blend a handful of fresh purslane with a tablespoon of plain yogurt and a teaspoon of honey. Apply to your face for 15 minutes, then rinse with cool water. The yogurt provides lactic acid for gentle exfoliation, while the honey is a natural humectant, drawing moisture to the skin.
Next up: tepary beans. These little beans are a desert staple, cultivated by indigenous peoples for centuries.
Tepary beans are incredibly drought-tolerant and packed with protein and fiber. They’re also a good source of iron, which is essential for energy production and healthy skin.
What makes them special for anti-aging? Their high antioxidant content. Tepary beans contain compounds that help protect your cells from damage caused by UV radiation, a major concern in Las Vegas.
Look for tepary beans at the Las Vegas Farm, or even better, try growing your own! Several varieties are available, including the “White Tepary” and the “Brown Tepary.”
Growing them yourself ensures you know exactly where your food is coming from and how it’s been grown. Plus, gardening is a great stress reliever!
Preparing tepary beans requires a bit more effort than purslane, but it’s worth it. They need to be soaked overnight before cooking to reduce their phytic acid content, which can inhibit nutrient absorption.
After soaking, rinse them well and cook them in fresh water until tender, about an hour. Don’t add salt until they’re almost done, as it can toughen the skins.
A delicious and healthy way to enjoy tepary beans is in a Southwestern-inspired soup. Combine them with corn, tomatoes, chili peppers, and your favorite spices.
You can also use them to make a hearty bean dip or add them to salads for a protein boost.
A common pitfall is undercooking tepary beans. They should be soft and creamy, not hard or crunchy. If they’re still firm after an hour of cooking, continue simmering them until they reach the desired consistency.
Now, let’s talk about combining these Vegas Veggies for maximum benefit. A purslane and tepary bean salad is a nutritional powerhouse.
The omega-3s from the purslane complement the protein and fiber from the tepary beans, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Add some chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing and hydrating dish, perfect for a hot Las Vegas day.
Remember, consistency is key. Incorporating these Vegas Veggies into your diet regularly will yield the best results.
Don’t expect overnight miracles, but over time, you’ll notice improvements in your skin’s radiance, energy levels, and overall well-being.
One challenge you might face is finding these ingredients consistently. Farmer’s markets are your best bet, but availability can vary depending on the season.
Consider joining a local CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program to ensure a regular supply of fresh, locally-grown produce.
Another challenge is overcoming the “weed” stigma associated with purslane. Many people are hesitant to eat something they consider a nuisance.
Educate yourself and others about its nutritional benefits and delicious flavor. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Finally, remember that diet is just one piece of the puzzle. A healthy lifestyle also includes regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management.
Combine these factors with the power of Vegas Veggies, and you’ll be well on your way to a youthful and vibrant life, right here in the heart of the desert.
So, ditch the expensive creams and embrace the power of purslane and tepary beans. Your skin and body will thank you for it.