Grace O

April 24, 2023

Published by Grace O

Mushroom Medley

This side dish pairs well with chicken or beef or game meats. You can use almost any variety of mushrooms in any combination. I leave the small mushrooms whole because they look nicer that way, but you can chop them if you prefer. Mushrooms contain selenium, an antioxidant that boosts immune function and reduces cancer risk. Beta glucans in mushrooms boost the immune system. Mushrooms are also a good source of vitamin D, for strong bones. You can learn more about the incredible benefits of mushrooms in my blog on Miraculous Mushrooms. Serves 2-4 Ingredients 1 cup shiitake mushrooms 1 […]

April 24, 2023

Shot of a young woman blowing her nose with a tissue at home

Published by Grace O

Foods That Can Help You Fight Allergies

When pollen is flying through the air on a spring or summer breeze, foods that reduce allergy symptoms can be a lifesaver. Eating specific compounds—such as the FoodTrients omega-3 fatty acids, curcumin, gingerol, oleuropein, and quercitin, as well as probiotics—go a long way toward reducing the swelling of nasal passages and the production of antihistamines. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in large, deep-water fish, whole grains, and nuts. You can also take omega-3 supplements daily to help fight inflammation. Curcumin is an ingredient of the spice turmeric. I have a few recipes using turmeric if you need some ideas for […]

April 11, 2023

Published by Grace O

Alternative Flours Are Springing Up All Over

The demand for alternative flours has never been greater, and food companies are delivering. As I see it, there are several reasons for this including the fact that many people are avoiding gluten, which is the protein in wheat flour. It can cause gastric distress in some individuals with celiac disease and many other people feel their energy level and well-being improve by avoiding gluten. Whatever the reason consumers are flocking to alternative flours, there are scores of delicious new flours and meals to replace traditional wheat ones. At the Natural Products Expo in Anaheim, CA, last month, the FoodTrients […]

April 11, 2023

Published by Grace O

EggCeptional International Egg Recipes

Is there any more perfect food than an egg – both to look at and to eat? The pristine white or café au lait brown ovals are so full of promise. The rich golden yolk is quivering with possibilities. Besides being beautiful, eggs are nutritional powerhouses and prime FoodTrients. They are rich sources of selenium, vitamin D, B6, B12 and minerals such as zinc, iron and copper. Eggs contain fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K and are a source of high-quality protein at a mere 84 calories each. Their inexpensive yet high-quality protein content makes you feel fuller longer […]

April 11, 2023

Published by Grace O

Lebanese Morning Walnut Cake Is a Sweetie

My friends from Lebanon make this not-too-sweet cake as a breakfast treat. I love its walnut flavor. Benefits Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids for heart health; fiber for gut health; protein to support healthy muscle mass; and beta-sitosterol, which may help lower cholesterol levels. Serves 6–8 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp. baking powder 4 eggs 1½ cups sugar 1 cup walnut oil 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract 1 cup chopped walnuts Butter and flour to coat Powdered sugar, as garnish 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. 2. In a large bowl, mix the flour and baking powder […]

March 28, 2023

Published by Grace O

Slow Cooking Is Fast, Easy & Affordable

I had never used a slow cooker until a few years ago when someone gave me one as a sort-of joke. To tell the truth, I’ve come to love it! You throw in a few ingredients in the morning, you come home in the evening and dinner’s ready. The Crock-Pot debuted for home cooks over 40 years ago as a method to cook dried beans. It became an efficient way for homemakers and busy people to serve affordable, tender, delicious meals using inexpensive cuts of meat, making it easy for moms and dads to prepare wholesome meals every day. Crockpots and […]

March 14, 2023

Published by Grace O

Eastern European Favorites Walk on the Lighter Side

Eastern European foods are not necessarily known for their healthy attributes. In general, the foods of countries including Russia, Poland, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Lithuania and the Czech Republic are heavy on meat, sour cream and lard or chicken fat. However, they are delicious comfort foods, no matter where in the world you or your ancestors hail from. In the spirit of FoodTrients, I’ve adapted some recipes to make them lighter, more healthful versions of the originals. Here are a few of the guidelines I used to make these recipes more modern and health-friendly: Add vegetables – By increasing the […]

March 14, 2023

Published by Grace O

Try Tasty Quinoa for Breakfast

Think beyond traditional cereals and try this high-protein, high-fiber grain instead. On its own, quinoa is rather bland but if you take the time to spice it up to your liking, it makes a healthy and filling breakfast. Make a batch ahead of time to last for several days; you can simply add some more liquid and heat it up or take it to go with you. This healthful cereal takes minutes to prepare and provides long-lasting energy for your day. YIELD 2 cups of quinoa; 4 breakfast servings 1 cup dry quinoa (rinsed well and drained) 2 […]

February 25, 2023

Published by Grace O

Soup Recipes Warm It Up for Winter

On freezing winter days, nothing warms you up more than a hot, hardy bowl of soup. Add to that a variety of ingredients that boost your immune system, and you’ve got the makings of a perfect cold-weather meal. While we don’t have the severe winter weather that much of the country has, we do have chilly winter nights here in California. On those nights, I love to come home and prepare a delicious soup. Here are six of my favorite soup recipes that I hope you will enjoy. Potato Kale Soup Serves 4 This Balkan-inspired recipe has clean, bright flavors that […]