April 26, 2016

Pecan & Sundried Tomato Tapenade

I found the inspiration for this tapenade while at a health spa in Mexico. Of course, I put my own special FoodTrients spin on it to create a great topping for fish and a dip for crackers and bread. The pecans can be toasted or raw. I like to use sundried tomatoes preserved in olive oil. Benefits Pecans contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can help improve your blood circulation by lowering triglycerides, or bad fats. Omega-3s help your skin by reducing inflammation that can lead to accelerated skin aging. Tomatoes, especially sundried, are a rich source of lycopene, an antioxidant […]
August 11, 2015

Simple Curry Cabbage Slaw

  Surprise your guests with a unique slaw of unexpected texture and color packed full of flavor and healthful nutrition! Cabbage has anticancer and cardiovascular benefits because of the unique enzymes, antioxidants and nutrients including glucosinolates that it contains. These compounds contribute to the pungent nature of cruciferous vegetables like cabbage, broccoli and Brussels spouts and are health-promoting when consumed. By adding complex natural flavors like coconut, lemon juice, and soy sauce, this dish offers a savory and unique blend of textures that your guests will love. Adding turmeric, curry powder, and cumin skyrocket the nutritional and antioxidant value and […]
February 4, 2015

Homemade Sardines with Tomatoes

It’s hard to find a better health combination for your arteries than lycopene and Omega-3s. This recipe combines the power of tomatoes with delicious homemade sardines. Brining the fish makes all the difference, and cooking blends the fish and tomato flavors. I prefer to use small whole fish such as smelt, mackerel, or herring, which have a lower mercury content than larger fish. If you use a larger fish such as trout or tuna, cut it into pieces. I serve these tomato sardines over brown rice or combine them with mayonnaise, celery, onion, carrot, and jicama and make a sardine […]
January 27, 2015

Homemade Enchilada Sauce

  Try buying enchilada sauce in a can or jar and you’ll be hard-pressed to find one without sugar somewhere on the ingredient label. Why alter the wonderful anti-cancer effects of a tomato-based product with an inflammatory food like sugar? The reason sugar is almost always added is because tomato-based sauces can be acidic and sugar adjusts this flavor well. Try the recipe without any sweetener, but if you find it a tad acidic, you can try a small amount of neutral sweetener such as agave syrup if needed. The health properties of tomatoes, particularly lycopene, are enhanced by cooking […]
December 15, 2014

Quinoa Tabbouleh on Pita

By changing the bulgur wheat usually found in tabbouleh with quinoa, you are getting a nutrient-dense gluten-free grain that acts as a complete protein. It also has silica for building collagen, which helps boost your skin’s elasticity. The tomatoes provide heart-healthy lycopene, the parsley gives us detoxifying chlorophyll and antioxidants, and the olive oil helps lower inflammation. To make this a gluten-free appetizer, swap the pita rounds for flaxseed crackers or eat the tabbouleh alone as a salad. SERVES 2 Ingredients 1/2 cup quinoa 1/2 tsp. kosher salt dissolved in 1 cup water 2 cups finely chopped parsley 1/2 cup […]
July 2, 2014

Mama’s Chicken Saute

    My mother made this dish for our family dinners whenever we wanted comfort food. I always think of her when I make it. It has chicken and egg–symbols of the life cycle. I usually serve it over some form of potato: mashed, boiled baked, or even fried (baked potatoes are the healthiest option). The chicken provides detoxifying selenium, and the tomatoes offer heart-healthy lycopene. The garlic contributes immune-boosting allicin compounds, while the olive oil adds natural anti-inflammatory compounds (oleocanthal and oleuropein). SERVES 4 Ingredients 2 Tbs. olive oil 2 Tbs. minced garlic 1/2 cup diced onion 2 cups […]
July 3, 2013

Grilled Swordfish in Secret Marinade

    The secret to this dish is the oyster sauce in the marinade. For years, people have asked me what makes this swordfish so tangy and delicious. I’ve refused to divulge my secret…until now! The marinade makes the fish so flavorful that it doesn’t need any extra sauce. But you can top it with my Papaya Relish for more antioxidant power. SERVES 2 Ingredients 1/3 cup oyster sauce 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 2 lemons) 1/4 cup olive oil 2 swordfish steaks (about 6 oz. each) Procedure 1. In a small bowl, combine the oyster sauce, lemon juice, and […]
December 6, 2012

Mustard-Crusted Tri-Tip

      Mustard is a highly popular and widely used condiment that has sparked interest among nutritionists. Its detoxifying selenium and magnesium have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce blood pressure. Its phytonutrients seem to inhibit the growth of certain cancer cells. Mustard also stimulates the saliva glands, aiding in digestion. I like to use Dijon mustard for the crust on this tri-tip, but you can use any flavorful prepared mustard. As with all red meat, the lysine in the beef repairs tissue and helps skin build new collagen. I use grass-fed beef for its omega-3s and other healthful […]
November 21, 2011

Cranberry Compote

Cranberries are high in antioxidants and immune-boosting vitamin C. They even have a bit of resveratrol in them—the heart-friendly nutrient found in red wine. This recipe will keep for many days in the refrigerator. I use it in my Cranberry Bread Pudding and on its own as an accompaniment for poultry. YIELDS about 4 cups Ingredients 1/2 cup water 1 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar 1 cup fresh cranberries Procedure 1. Boil the water and sugar in a large nonreactive saucepan, such as copper or enamel-coated cast iron, for about 5 minutes. 2. Add the cranberries and boil until […]