I noticed an improvement in fresh veggies when I got a microwave and didn't cook them in lots of water. Just a little water, with a lid on the dish. And the leftovers taste better when warmed up the next day. I undercook veggies, to keep the fresh flavor and I often eat the juice that forms as well. I use minimal salt and maybe a little butter. I love basil for flavoring because it is slightly sweet. The farmer's markets have the fresh food and you can taste the difference. I am spoiled eating from the garden and won't eat much canned food from the store, but my home canned tomato sauce is heavenly. I have never learned about French cooking, so plain and simple tastes good to me. I like variety and try new foods when I think about it. I eat a few raw foods just because the nutritionists say it is good for you. After a while, I like the food, but may not actually love it. It is a process, I think. Dorisena