Grace O

February 18, 2026

Published by Grace O

Chinese Lunar New Year 2026: Good Health, Good Fortune, and Longevity

Celebrate Good Health, Good Fortune, and Longevity Through Food The Chinese Lunar New Year is one of the most joyful and meaningful celebrations in the world. In 2026, Lunar New Year began on February 17 and usherd in the Year of the Horse — a symbol of vitality, energy, and forward movement. For centuries, families have gathered around the table to welcome a new year filled with health, prosperity, and happiness. At the heart of the celebration is food — not just for nourishment, but for symbolism, intention, and well-being. At FoodTrients®, we love traditions that bring people together around […]

February 12, 2026

Published by Grace O

Tart Cherry Bread Pudding with Cherry Compote

A lightly sweet, nutrient-rich dessert layered with antioxidant-packed tart cherries and toasted walnuts. The compote forms a beautiful ruby topping when inverted — warm and glossy, or chilled and sliceable. Ingredients For the Bread Pudding 3 cups whole-grain or whole-wheat bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (slightly stale works best) 2 large eggs 1½ cups fat-free evaporated milk (or 1½ cups unsweetened almond milk + 2 tbsp Greek yogurt for richness) 2 tbsp melted butter or Smart Balance ¼ cup organic sugar, coconut sugar, or xylitol ¼ cup chopped walnuts, lightly toasted ¼ cup dried tart cherries ½ tsp lemon zest […]

February 11, 2026

Published by Grace O

Tart Cherries: Powerful in Every Bite

Tart cherries — especially Montmorency varieties — are emerging as one of nature’s most impressive anti-inflammatory fruits. Their deep ruby color signals a rich concentration of anthocyanins and polyphenols, plant compounds known to help calm inflammation and protect cells from oxidative stress. Whether enjoyed frozen, dried, or as juice concentrate, tart cherries deliver powerful support for muscle recovery, joint comfort, heart health, and brain function. But you don’t have to be an athlete to benefit. Everyday stress, aging, poor sleep, and chronic low-grade inflammation can all take a toll on the body. Tart cherry juice offers a simple, food-based way […]

February 11, 2026

Published by Grace O

Sweet & Savory Red Cabbage with Crispy Bacon

Weller Red Cabbage This cherished Weller family recipe for red cabbage with bacon is a beautiful blend of comfort and nourishment. The gentle sweetness of the cabbage pairs perfectly with the savory richness of bacon — though you can easily leave it out for a lighter, plant-forward version that’s just as satisfying. It’s a wonderful complement to turkey and game meats like venison or buffalo, especially during the cooler months. 1. Broil the bacon in the oven for 5–7 minutes or until it begins sizzling on top. Turn over and broil another 3–5 minutes or until crisp. 2. Drain the […]

February 11, 2026

Published by Grace O

Naturally Sweet Macadamia Cream Flan

Macadamia Cream Flan Macadamia nuts are rich in heart-healthy, anti-inflammatory monounsaturated fats. Eating more of these healthy fats can help keep your skin youthful and your waistline trim. Egg yolks contain lutein, which reduces the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Yields 8 small servings Ingredients Caramel ½ cup water 1 cup xylitol or sugar Flan 8 egg yolks (organic, free-range, or Omega-3-enriched) 1 egg (organic, free-range, or Omega-3-enriched) 2 cups Macadamia Cream ⅔ cup xylitol or sugar 1 tsp. lemon zest Procedure Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Make the caramel: In a small saucepan, combine the water […]

February 11, 2026

Published by Grace O

It’s a Melt-in-Your-Mouth Chocolate Mousse

Dark Chocolate Mousse It’s hard to imagine, but this vegan version of chocolate mousse offers the same satisfaction as its richer, less healthy sibling. Contributed by my colleague Dr. Lynn Blair, it has all of the same creaminess, the satiny, melt-in-your-mouth pleasure, and the full, no-holds-barred taste you expect from a dense and rich chocolate mousse. And if that’s not enough, just add plenty of great health benefits. Soy contains isoflavones, which help preserve bone density, lower your risk of certain cancers, and may alleviate menopausal symptoms. Dark chocolate has catechins, which are neuroprotective, and theobromine, which improves blood flow […]

February 10, 2026

Published by Grace O

Let Me Count the Ways I Love Chocolate!

Valentine’s Day brings warmth and joy to the often gloomy month of February. And let’s be honest—what’s Valentine’s Day without chocolate? As a child, I cherished the rare occasions when my parents treated me to American-made chocolates as a special reward, making each bite even more delightful. Later in life, my husband won my heart with roses and decadent chocolates on this romantic holiday. It’s no surprise that chocolate has become synonymous with love! The great news is that chocolate is an honest-to-goodness FoodTrient! Dark chocolate is loaded with vitamins, antioxidants and even some fiber. Sugar, butter, milk and admittedly other […]

February 10, 2026

Published by Grace O

Sweetheart Baobab Butter Squares with a Healthy Twist

These squares are like lemon bars but made with antioxidant-rich baobab. Baobab is an African fruit that has a powdery texture. You can buy it from Amazon or you can use fresh lemon juice (3 Tbs.) or lemon zest (1 Tbs.) instead of the baobab powder. Feel free to substitute gluten-free flour for the wheat-based flour. BENEFITS: Baobab is a good source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that appears to guard against heart disease and stroke and also protects the skin from the aging effects of ultraviolet rays. It contains fiber, which helps with detoxification and gut health. Yields 12 […]

February 5, 2026

Published by Grace O

New Food Guidelines – We Are Ahead of the Curve!

FoodTrients is Ahead of the Curve! For years, FoodTrients® has encouraged what the new guidelines highlight: colorful vegetables and fruits, clean proteins, healthy fats, whole grains, and fewer ultra-processed foods. This is how I was raised, how my father (a physician) taught me to nourish the body, and how I cook for my family — and for all of you. Real food matters. What we eat can help us feel better. And every bite can support graceful aging. As someone who has spent decades studying food-as-medicine, traveling the world to discover healing ingredients, and creating recipes that support longevity, I […]