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 […]
November 21, 2014

Cinnamon Coffee

This delicious cold-weather drink has a host of health benefits. Both cinnamon and nutmeg decrease inflammation inside the body. Cloves have high levels of antioxidants for skin renewal and regeneration. Molasses and evaporated milk provide calcium for strong bones and teeth. And coffee contains antioxidants that help prevent damage to your DNA. SERVES 4 Ingredients 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk 4 Tbs. molasses (or to taste) 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp. each ground nutmeg and cloves 4 cups freshly brewed coffee Cinnamon sticks as garnish Procedure 1. In a medium saucepan, warm the evaporated milk over low heat […]
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 […]
November 22, 2013

Dressing Up Savory Stuffing

I use this stuffing for my Stuffed Turkey Rolls. Homemade croutons, raw celery, and sausages give this dish its unique flavor and texture. To serve as a side dish, spread the stuffing in a greased baking dish and bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes. YIELDS 2-3 cups Ingredients 4 Tbs. olive oil 1/2 cup chopped onion 1/2 lb. ground turkey 2 slices cubed whole-wheat bread Sea salt and ground pepper to taste 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning 1 cup turkey or chicken broth 1/4 cup chopped celery 1 can (5 oz.) mashed Chicken Vienna sausages (optional) Procedure 1. Heat 3 […]
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 […]
July 2, 2013

Strawberry-Avocado Relish

  No cooking is required for this condiment. The strawberries, avocado, and cilantro all contain antioxidants. Strawberries are also very high in vitamin C and flavonoids, while avocados also provide glutathione, a detoxifying agent. I use this relish with my Summertime Grilled Chicken, but it also makes a great topping for grilled fish and a satisfying dip for whole-grain tortilla chips. YIELDS about 2 cups Ingredients 1 1/2 cups diced strawberries 1 diced medium-size avocado 1/4 cup minced red onion 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes) 1 Tbs. chopped cilantro 1 tsp. sugar Sea salt and ground pepper to […]
June 29, 2013

Honey-Lime Dressing

This is a very versatile dressing that you can toss with my Apple Barley Salad or with any mixed greens. The lime juice provides immune-boosting vitamin C, while antioxidant compounds in the chili powder help to neutralize free radicals in your cells. If you want a spicier dressing, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Both contain capsaicin, which stimulates circulation. This dressing makes the perfect marinade for my Summertime Grilled Chicken. The lime brings out the flavor of the poultry, and the olive oil keeps it from sticking to the grill. To use this dressing with fruit salad, simply […]
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 […]