June 1, 2025

Flavor-Packed Couscous Salad with Cherry Tomatoes

Couscous Salad Couscous can be served warm or chilled. This North African grain is made from coarsely ground semolina (durum wheat endosperm) that is parboiled. It cooks up very quickly and can be tossed with any number of sauces and vegetables. You can use golden couscous, natural pearl couscous, or tricolor pearl couscous instead of the whole grain. Serves 4 2 cups cooked whole-grain couscous, chilled for 2 hours 1⁄2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1⁄2 cup roasted almonds 1⁄4 cup minced chives 2–3 Tbs. whole, fresh mint leaves 1⁄4 cup golden raisins 1⁄4 cup radish slices Dressing 2–3 Tbs. olive […]
May 30, 2025

Maple Herb Roasted Tofu

If you think tofu always lacks flavor, you have to give this sweet, savory, and herbaceous soy-based holiday entree a try. A simple blend of oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and tamari or soy sauce combine to create a flavorful entree that’s wholly worthy of a coveted spot on your holiday table. The added aroma from fresh, wintry herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage is just a bonus. Vegetarians and meat-eaters alike will love this comforting and festive main dish! The tofu provides plant-based protein for strength while the vinegar and tamari promote gut health. Rosemary boosts brain power. […]
May 12, 2025

Adobo! A Delicious Dish Heard Round the World

As the song goes, “You say, Adobo and I say, adobo….” Yes, it’s confusing. There’s Spanish adobo (the original adobo from Spain), Mexican adobo, Filipino adobo, and others. How can these dishes, created so many miles apart, have ended up with the same name? Adobo is a Spanish rub or marinade typically made with paprika, oregano, salt, garlic, and vinegar to flavor meat before cooking. It comes from the word, adovar, which means ‘to marinate.’ Mexican adobo is a fusion of indigenous and colonial influences. In the Mexican version, crushed chilies, spices, and vinegar are used to make a marinade […]
April 7, 2025

We’re Designing Dishes for Great Gut Health

Gut health refers to the overall wellness of your digestive system, particularly the balance and function of the microorganisms that live in your gastrointestinal tract. Did you know that your digestive system is a whole plant/animal kingdom of its own? The GI tract is a complex system responsible for digesting food, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste from the body. It’s inhabited by trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, collectively known as the gut microbiota or gut microbiome. Chew on this: There are more microbes in your digestive system than there are cells in your body! It’s estimated that […]
April 7, 2025

Golden Healing: Anti-Inflammatory Turmeric Rice

Turmeric Rice This rice is mildly spiced because it’s designed to go with Grace’s Turkey in Turmeric Sauce. If you want the rice to carry most of the flavor, substitute coconut milk for half of the water. Then serve it with grilled turkey, chicken, or fish. Either way, you get both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits from the fresh turmeric. YIELDS 2 cups Ingredients 1 cup jasmine rice ½ cup Fresh Turmeric Juice or 1 tsp. turmeric powder 2 cups water Procedure 1. Rinse rice under running water once. Drain and set aside. 2. Combine the turmeric juice or powder with […]
March 18, 2025

Tofu & Veggie Stir-Fry: A Tasty, Nutrient-Rich Delight!

Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry Tofu is an excellent alternative to meat, and this stir-fry will provide you with plenty of health-boosting vegetables. Broccoli is a good source of lutein, a hedge against macular degeneration. Cauliflower and kale have phytonutrients that protect against cancer. I use a wok to prepare this dish, but a large skillet will work, too. The tofu doesn’t have to be fried first, but frying gives it a nice texture. SERVES 2-4 Ingredients 1 package (8 oz.) firm tofu 6 Tbs. peanut oil 1 Tbs. grated gingerroot 2 Tbs. minced garlic 1 cup baby carrots 1 cup […]
March 17, 2025

Deliciously Good for Your Gut: Pineapple Black Bean Salsa

Pineapple Black Bean Salsa Party food can most definitely be colorful, delicious, and healthy at the same time. This pineapple black bean salsa is a perfect example. Pineapple, beans, avocado, and other nutrient-dense ingredients combine to create a festive dish that promotes optimal energy levels, digestion, and wellbeing. This dish is also versatile. Try serving it with tortilla chips as an appetizer or use it as a sweet and spicy topping for grilled tofu or fish. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit at your next summer barbecue. Serves 6-8 Ingredients 1 pineapple, peeled and diced (about 2 ½ […]
March 17, 2025

Salmon Poached in Pickling Spices

Pickle juice makes a nice poaching liquid, but I’ve found that pickling spices without the vinegar are even better for poaching fish, especially salmon. You can make your own spice mix or you can buy prepackaged pickling salts. I top this poached salmon with my Pecan and Sundried Tomato Tapenade and my Mock Sour Cream. It can be served hot or cold. BENEFITS: Salmon is an excellent source of heart-healthy Omega-3 fatty acids, which can also help improve cognition. Omega-3s beautify your skin by reducing inflammation and enhancing the skin’s ability to retain moisture. SERVES 4 Ingredients 3 cups water […]
March 9, 2025

Sweet Potato and Jackfruit Delight

This exotic dessert is a beloved treat across Asia! Featuring jackfruit—one of the world’s largest and most antioxidant-rich tree fruits—it delivers a mild and tropical taste . You can discover this golden fresh fruit in specialty markets or conveniently canned at Asian grocers. Be sure to pick ripe jackfruit, glowing in a vibrant yellow. Combined with creamy coconut milk, known for its skin-hydrating and elasticity-boosting powers, and nutrient-packed sweet potatoes loaded with carotenoids and potassium, this dessert is as nourishing as it is delicious! SERVES 6-8 Ingredients ¼ cup tapioca 2 cups water 1 can (8 oz.) jackfruit, drained of […]