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Banana blossom salad with peanut dressing

We are fortunate living in the Northern Rivers region. There is an abundance of fresh, 

local produce readily available and seasonal. Due to the climate,

bananas plants are a natural thriving herb (yes, a herb and the banana itself is classed as a berry).

Not often seen in the markets, bananas blossoms are a popular addition to salads and stir fries 

throughout South East Asia. 

For this great Thai salad, ask the banana growers at the local farmers market to bring a blossom in 

for you next time, they will be somewhat surprised and excited by the request. Enjoy!

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Target Heart Rate=((Maximum Heart Rate - Resting Heart Rate) x %intensity)+Resting Heart Rate

To establish your Maximum Heart Rate (MHR) you follow this equation: 220 - Age = ?

For example if you are 40 years old then your MHR is 220 - 40 = 180 bpm

To establish your Resting Heart Rate (RHR) you must take your heart rate first thing in the morning before you rise from bed. Count your heart rate over 1 minute.

So if you are a 40 year old person, your Resting Heart Rate is 70 bpm and you want to work at 80% for your training session your Target Heart Rate would be:

((180 - 70) x .80) + 70 = 158 bpm

Heart Rate Calculator: www.ottawarun.com/heartrate.htm

Bananas contain three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber. A banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy.

Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world's leading athletes.

But energy isn't the only way a banana can help us keep fit. It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet.