Living Well 4/23/26
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April Create MHV Club Members of the Create MHV Club met on Wednesday, April 8th for their April meeting. Mrs. Mary Fuquay led the Decorative Door hanger craft. Those who attended were: Elsie Harrison, Mary Fuquay and Pam Smith. The next Create Club meeting will be on Wednesday, May 13th at 10 a.m. at the Extension office.
Extension Programs coming up:
Wednesday, April 22 – Healthy You Exercise class will meet at 9 a.m. at the Extension office. Wear cool, comfortable clothes, supportive shoes and bring water to drink.
Wednesday, April 22 – Dining with Diabetes Lesson 3 will meet at 1:30 p.m. at the Extension office
Thursday, April 23 – ServSafe class and exam. Class starts at 7:30 a.m.
Friday, April 24 – Healthy You Exercise class will meet at 9 a.m. at the Extension office. Wear cool, comfortable clothes, supportive shoes and bring water to drink.
Tuesday, April 28 – Modeling Squad practice for Club congress at 5:15 p.m. at the Extension office.
Wednesday, April 29 – Dining with Diabetes Lesson 4 will meet at 1:30 p.m. at the Extension office
Thursday, April 30 – Salt Free Spice Blend Workshop at 4:30 p.m. at the Coffeeville Public Library Plant Swap
Friday, May 1 – Healthy You Exercise class will meet at 9 a.m. at the Extension office. Wear cool, comfortable clothes, supportive shoes and bring water to drink.
Monday, May 4 – Sewing for Service will meet at 9 a.m. at the Extension office.
Monday, May 4 – 4-H Home School- will meet at 1:30 p.m. at the Extension office. We will begin working with puppets.
Monday, May 4 – Canning Basics at 5:30 p.m. Join us to learn all about how to preserve food using various methods. Informational session only. Class is free and open to the public.
Wednesday, May 6 – Healthy You Exercise class will meet at 9 a.m. at the Extension office. Wear cool, comfortable clothes, supportive shoes and bring water to drink. Thursday, May 7 – Looped with Love Crochet MHV Club – will meet at 10 a.m. at the Extension office.
Thursday, May 7 – Modeling Squad practice for Club congress at 5:15 p.m. at the Extension office.
Friday, May 8 – Healthy You Exercise class will meet at 9 a.m. at the Extension office. Wear cool, comfortable clothes, supportive shoes and bring water to drink.
Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs, or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762
Grilling Equipment Guide
With the average gas grill costing upwards of $1000, we thought we would do a series on ways to grill outside and inside that don’t require a huge propane grill. Of course you can always go the used route to get one for much less than retail.
Charcoal grills
Charcoal grills deliver that classic smoky flavor that many people associate with summer cooking. They reach high temperatures, making them ideal for searing meats and charring vegetables. While they take more time to heat and require a bit more hands-on attention, the payoff is deep, rich flavor. For heart-healthy grilling, let the coals burn down to avoid flare-ups and pair your foods with low-sodium rubs and marinades.
Wood grills
Cooking over wood adds another layer of complexity, infusing foods with subtle, aromatic flavors depending on the type of wood used—like hickory, apple, or mesquite. Wood grilling is great for slow cooking and can elevate vegetables, fish, and lean proteins with a natural smokiness. Keep it heart healthy by avoiding heavy sauces and letting the natural flavors shine with herbs, citrus, and spices.
Gas grills
Gas grills are convenient, consistent, and easy to control, making them a popular choice for everyday grilling. With quick ignition and adjustable heat, they’re perfect for cooking a variety of foods from delicate fish to hearty vegetables. Because they produce less smoke than charcoal, they’re ideal for lighter, cleaner flavors—just add a simple marinade or dry rub to keep things heart healthy.
Electric grills
Electric grills are a great indoor or apartment-friendly option, offering grill marks and high heat without open flames. They’re easy to use, quick to heat, and perfect for smaller portions of chicken, fish, vegetables, or tofu. Since there’s less smoke, they work well with bright marinades and spice blends to build flavor without rely
Grill pans
Grill pans bring the grilling experience right to your stovetop, creating those signature sear marks and caramelized edges. They’re ideal for quick meals and smaller spaces, especially when outdoor grilling isn’t an option. Use a light brush of oil and medium-high heat to cook vegetables, lean meats, or plant-based proteins while keeping cleanup simple and flavors bold. I like to start cooking on the stove to make marks on one side then put the whole pan in the oven to finish it unattended. It is a good idea to use a seasoned cast iron grill pan.
Air fryers
Air fryers aren’t traditional grills, but they can mimic that crisp, roasted texture with very little oil. They’re excellent for cooking marinated proteins, vegetables, and even fruit, delivering a satisfying bite without deep frying. For heart health, they’re a great tool to reduce added fats while still achieving a delicious, slightly charred finish.
Broiler
The broiler is one of the most underrated “indoor grills,” using high, direct heat from above to create a beautifully browned and slightly charred surface. It’s perfect for quick cooking—think fish fillets, chicken breasts, or sliced vegetables. Keep a close eye while cooking to prevent burning, and use simple seasonings to highlight natural flavors without excess sodium.
Article Source adapted from: https://www.foodandhealth.com/blog/grilling-equipment-24nyl
