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 […]
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, […]
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 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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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, […]
SERVING TIP: You can serve these shrimp as is, or over brown rice or quinoa.
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 […]