APPLE PINEAPPLE CARROT SPICED SALAD WITH BOILED EGGS

HOW TO BOIL EGGS TO GET A SOFT, CREAMY YOLK: Bring the water up to a boil, then lower it to a rapid simmer. Add the eggs to the pot, and start your timer. If you’re just cooking a couple of eggs, five minutes is perfect for a runny yolk. Cool the eggs slightly by […]
DETOX WATER

DETOX WATER & THE IKARIA DIET: The whole notion of detox water fits in perfectly with a diet inspired by the Ikarian way of life. Detox water is simply water to which any number of fruits and vegetables may be added for both flavor, nutrition and easy hydration (it’s more flavorful so you’ll be inclined […]
AVOCADO HUMMUS

PERFECT HUMMUS EVERY TIME! Did you know that blending your chickpeas when they’re still hot (right after they’re cooked or reheated canned ones) results in a light and fluffy mix, ready to absorb tahini, olive oil, and spices? Maybe the best tip for consistently good hummus is adding excellent tahini. The rich and complex flavor […]
MUSSELS COOKED IN TOMATO SAUCE

TIPS FOR PERFECT MUSSELS, FRESH VS FROZEN: Always buy your mussels fresh; frozen mussels have a mealy texture. Make sure the mussel shells are firmly closed. If they are open a little, give them a firm tap against the side of the sink or the counter. If they close, you can eat them. If not, […]
RED & WHITE QUINOA BOWL WITH PEAS, CARROTS AND PEPPERS

DIFFERENT TYPES OF QUINOA: There are many different types of quinoa grown in the Andes, where this ancient grain originates. We find some of them in western supermarkets as well. Here’s a quick guide: Quinoa or White Quinoa- is the most common kind of quinoa available in stores, so you’ll often see it just called […]
BROCCOLI CRUST PIZZA WITH MUSHROOMS, AVOCADO AND CREAMY LIGHT CHEESE SAUCE

BROCCOLI PIZZA CRUST – A FEW TIPS! This ersatz but delicious pizza definitely tastes best the day it is made. But if you’re a pizza lover like I am, you also know the guilty pleasures of enjoying a leftover slice the next day. You can reheat this in a hot oven at about 400 degrees […]
Sugar Free Lemon Ice Pops
CHILLED BEET-TOMATO BORSCHT

BEETROOT NUTRITION: Beets – both the greens and the bulbs – are an important part of the Ikaria diet and an important ingredient in the Greek and Mediterranean diets. The greens are nutritionally comparable to iron-rich spinach but the bulbs are also very healthy, although they contain natural sugars and carbs. Overall, beets are a […]
Farro Salad With Sundried Tomatoes, Feta And Herbs

ABOUT FARRO: Farro, a high-protein, high-fiber ancient whole-grain wheat, figures prominently in the Mediterranean diet. It looks similar to barley, though with a slightly more oblong and larger grain. Like barley, farro retains a notable amount of chew when it gets cooked. Farro and barley can be used interchangeably in most recipes. Farro is a […]
Overnight Oatmeal with Greek Honey, Bananas, and Chia Seeds

NUTRITIONAL INFO ABOUT OATMEAL: Oats are rich in carbs and fiber, including beta-glucan fiber. This fiber helps reduce cholesterol and blood sugar levels, promotes healthy gut bacteria, and increases feelings of fullness. They are also a great source of high-quality protein, with a good balance of essential amino acids. Oats are loaded with important vitamins, […]
The Simplest Spicy Shrimp

SERVING TIP: You can serve these shrimp as is, or over brown rice or quinoa.
Zucchini Veloute

ABOUT VEGETABLE SOUPS: One of my favorite ways to cook vegetables is in soups, and the variations and versatility are endless. You can make almost any vegetable into a simple but elegant soup and the beauty is in the garnishing. Drizzle thin threads of olive oil over the soup; stream a little balsamic or honey […]