Green, The Ides of March, and St. Patrick’s Day
The Ides of March, which falls on March 15th, is a day with significant events throughout history, but within Irish culture, the Ides of March is associated with the arrival of Spring and a time of renewal for our natural world.
Being only a couple of days apart, the Ides of March and St. Patrick’s Day usher in the arrival of Spring and a time of renewal for our natural world. As a holiday, St. Patrick’s Day celebrates Irish people, their culture-rich history, and heritage. During this time of greenery and renewal, celebrations center around food and togetherness.
Most of us think of the shamrock when we think of St Patrick’s Day, and rightly so as it is said that Saint Patrick used this unassuming three-lobed plant to explain the Holy Trinity to Irish people. As such, the shamrock is often held as a symbol for Irish people. Like the shamrock, green foods are a common theme during St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, and in terms of our wellness and seasonal availability, this holiday is the perfect reminder that we should eat more green vegetables to keep a healthy and balanced diet.
The Benefits of Healthy, Green Vegetables
Chlorophyll is responsible for giving green vegetables their color, but chlorophyll also offers anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce the risks of diabetes and heart disease. Green vegetables offer many nutrients ranging from fiber for healthy digestion, to vitamins and minerals such as vitamin K and A to encourage bone and immune function, folate for producing red blood cells, as well as vitamin C for healthy skin and immune system.
Overall, the Ides of March and St. Patrick’s Day are important days in Irish culture that celebrate the arrival of spring and the abundance of fresh, green vegetables that it brings. Use this time to enjoy the changing of seasons, celebrating other cultures, and maintaining your diet for optimal health and well-being.
Chef-Inspired Entrees
Based on seasonal and regional ingredients, our Chefs will have dozens of new recipes to select from during March. Recipes offered will vary by location and are featured with you in mind. A few of our favorite entrees that you might see offered are:
- Green Beans, Any Style
- Garlic Chicken with Avocado
- Pesto Salmon
- Orange Spinach Salad with Pesto Chicken
- Green Super Smoothies
- Irish Soda Bread
- Rosemary-Mushroom Pot Pie
- Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup
- Potato-Leek Soup
- Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
