Grace O

July 17, 2026

Published by Grace O

Your Gut Loves Variety—Here’s Why Whole Grains Belong on Your Plate

Last week, we explored the simple challenge of eating 30 different plant foods each week to support a healthy gut microbiome. The wonderful thing about this challenge is that it doesn’t have to be complicated—every fruit, vegetable, herb, spice, bean, nut, seed, and whole grain counts. This week, I’d like to shine a spotlight on one of my favorite food groups for gut health: whole grains. When I visit my local farmers market during the summer, I’m always inspired by the colorful produce that fills every stand. Fresh kale, sweet peppers, mushrooms, herbs, and crisp vegetables remind me that the […]

July 16, 2026

Published by Grace O

Cauliflower Steaks with Goat Cheese

Cauliflower Steaks with Goat Cheese These cauliflower steaks can serve as a vegetarian main course or sit beautifully alongside grass-fed, grilled rib-eye or Porterhouse steaks. Piment d’Espelette is the French version of paprika. It’s mild and full-flavored. You can use paprika or red pepper flakes (1 tsp.) instead. A member of the nutrition-packed, cruciferous cabbage family along with Brussels sprouts and broccoli, cauliflower is anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich, and may boost both heart and brain health. Eating cauliflower provides impressive amounts of vitamin C, vitamin K, beta-carotene, and much more while supporting healthy digestion and detoxification. Cauliflower has indoles (sulfur compounds) […]

July 9, 2026

Published by Grace O

30 Plants a Week: A Simple Longevity Habit

Forget the latest superfood craze. Nutrition experts say one of the simplest ways to support a healthy gut—and potentially a longer, healthier life—is by eating a wider variety of plant foods every week. When people think about longevity, they often picture expensive supplements, restrictive diets, or the latest “miracle” superfood. But researchers studying the gut microbiome are pointing to something much simpler: variety. Instead of focusing on one “perfect” food, scientists have found that people who eat a greater diversity of plant foods tend to have more diverse gut bacteria—a hallmark of a healthier microbiome. Since gut health has been […]

July 1, 2026

Published by Grace O

Food, Family & Freedom: Celebrating

America’s 250th Birthday! A message from Grace O One Nation. Many Cultures. Endless Healthy Traditions As we celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States this Fourth of July, I’m reminded that one of America’s greatest strengths has always been its diversity—not only in the people who call this country home, but also in the foods, traditions, and cultures we share around our tables. Every family has its own favorite Fourth of July recipes. Some traditions have been passed down for generations, while others have traveled here from around the world. Together, they tell the story of America—a nation built […]

June 30, 2026

Published by Grace O

Ramp Up the Flavor with Wild Boar Kebabs

Wild boar has more flavor than tame pork. It has to be tenderized a bit, but that’s easily accomplished with an onion-juice marinade. You can use pork or beef medallions instead of boar and any type of cubed vegetables. BENEFITS: Wild boar (and therefore pork) has protein and lysine for building muscle, bone, and blood. It also contains phosphorus for nerve and muscle function and vitamin B12 for protecting nerves and brain cells. Yields: about 6 skewers Ingredients 1 lb. wild boar medallions or pork tenderloin 1/2 cup each cubed white onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper […]

June 26, 2026

Published by Grace O

Ashitaba Potato Salad: A Fresh Twist on a Classic

Ashitaba Potato Salad Potato salad is a great way to showcase ashitaba leaves. These healthful leaves, grown in Japan and Southeast Asia, are often dried, ground and taken as a dietary supplement. I grow my own ashitaba plants here in Southern California and I like to eat them fresh. The dark green leaves taste like spinach or sweet kale. But if you can’t find fresh ashitaba leaves, this potato salad is delicious without them. I like to use fingerling potatoes, but you can use small white new potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes instead. I prefer the French haricot vert variety […]

June 17, 2026

Published by Grace O

Up Your Game with Grilled Artichokes & Moringa Dip

Grilled Artichokes With Moringa Dip In this tasty appetizer, I pair moringa–which is loaded with strength-building protein, calcium, iron, vitamins A and C, and potassium–with artichokes, which add lutein for eye health and fiber for gut health. I like to steam the artichokes first and finish them on the grill, but you can omit this step to save time. Add other grilled vegetables such as red bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus to expand on this delicious party food. SERVES 4-6 Ingredients 4 artichokes, trimmed and steamed for 30 minutes 2-3 Tbs. olive oil 1 cup olive oil mayonnaise 1 Tbs. […]

May 20, 2026

Published by Grace O

Memorial Day Gathering — Simple, Nourishing & Made for Sharing

For me, Memorial Day has always been about gratitude, family, and gathering around the table with the people we love. As someone who grew up in Southeast Asia and later made America my home, I have always appreciated the way food brings people together across generations, cultures, and traditions. This year feels especially meaningful as our country approaches its 250th anniversary — honoring generations of courage, sacrifice, and service by the men and women who helped protect the freedoms we enjoy today. Memorial Day reminds us to pause, reflect, and appreciate those sacrifices while also celebrating the simple joys of […]

May 18, 2026

Published by Grace O

Grilled Watermelon with Lime, Mint & Pistachios

Grilled Watermelon Grilling watermelon lightly caramelizes its natural sugars and gives it a surprisingly rich, smoky flavor while keeping its refreshing juiciness. This colorful summer dish is perfect for Memorial Day gatherings because it’s simple, unexpected, and easy to prepare outdoors alongside the rest of the barbecue menu. Fresh mint, lime, and pistachios add brightness, crunch, and heart-healthy nutrients that beautifully balance grilled foods and richer barbecue dishes. FoodTrients Benefits Watermelon is naturally hydrating and rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to heart and skin health. Pistachios provide plant protein, fiber, and healthy fats that support satiety and cardiovascular […]