Enlightened Eater

Choosing smart carbs, those with a low glycemic index, offers a host of health perks.  The carbohydrates in legumes  are not only slowly absorbed but along with  the fibre contained, allow you to feel fuller for much longer than quickly digested carbs. Dried beans and peas also provide a potent blood cholesterol-lowering wallop. This speedy […]

I first tasted preserved lemons on an Oldways trip almost 20 years ago when a group of us – food writers, nutritionists, chefs and food historians – explored the Mediterranean Diet through traditional foods of Morocco. As is standard for these Oldways culinary explorations, the top experts on the subject were there to provide detailed […]

You don’t even have to eat this compote to enjoy it – a wonderful aroma will permeate your kitchen while you prepare it.  The secret ingredient is the crystallized ginger. I had forgotten about all about this compote until a few weeks ago when a couple of clients told me that they had found the […]

If you’re still looking for a crisp cookie for a cookie exchange, here’s a yummy offering with the goodness of whole grains and nuts. It’s also great if you just want to bake some cookies! Enjoy! Double Oat Chocolate Chip Cookies Makes 4 1/2  dozen cookies 3/4 cup soft non-hydrogenated margarine 1 cup granulated sugar […]

We just don’t eat enough onions. All too often,  they’re  used simply as a flavor booster in cooking as opposed to a  star ingredient.  But when you look at their disease-fighting arsenal, you might want to rethink your onion eating. Onions  offer a wide range of benefits including anti-cancer action and heart healthy,  blood sugar […]

Savoury  cocktail fare can pack a mighty caloric  wallop.  Fried and pastry covered choices abound at this time of year.  A few nibbles here and there at each festive gathering can certainly contribute to  that holiday weight gain. If you’re hosting any events, here’s a make ahead  offering that’s a real crowd pleaser – both […]

Here’s a tasty and simple way to reap cranberries’ assorted health perks. This simple recipe, adapted from  the Ocean  Spray  kitchens, that’s great with chicken and fish and of course, turkey. Santa Fe Cranberry Relish Makes about 2 ½  cups/ 625 mL or 10 servings 1 12-ounce (300-g)  package fresh or frozen cranberries 3/4 cup  […]

Brrr   …. It’s that time of year again when soup is absolutely necessary.  With the arrival of shorter days, appetites can perk up in preparation for hibernation.  Fool your body into thinking you’re doing so with a hearty soup. Here’s  a change of pace lentil soup with a hint of curry that’s perfect for the […]