Nutrition

Butternut Squash Ravioli

Care of Andrea Howe of Glowingongreens.com Autumn is a time that brings warmth into your life through hearty meals, family gatherings, and cozy sweaters. When I think of autumn foods, butternut squash recipes are without a doubt my go-to. Butternut squash is not only good for comforting and warm recipes, but it is packed full of nutrients. Squash is a category of many vegetables, including zucchini, pumpkin, or butternut squash. Their bright orange colour comes from the same nutrient that gives carrots their colouring– carotene! In the body, carotene is converted into Vitamin A, which is essential for eye health, bone health, and immune function. Butternut squash is also packed with vitamin C which aids in immune health, as well as skin and tissue repair. Both vitamin A and C are important to have in the colder months to help keep your immunity strong. Butternut squash contains many antioxidants, which help fight free radicals that can lead to cancer and disease development, one reason consuming at least one green and orange vegetable every day is recommended. Eating a diet rich in orange vegetables, including butternut squash can lower your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, metabolic… Read More

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Food and Recipe of the Month: Basil Pesto

Basil – the famous herb which is likely in everyone’s vegetable garden in the summertime. Basil is known for its fresh and flavourful taste, and is popular in many recipes in Italian and Thai cuisine. The two most common variaties of basil are Genovese basil and Thai basil, however there are well over 15 types. Basil is rich in many vitamins and minerals that can greatly benefit our health. It contains antioxidants, including chlorophyll, giving it that bright green colour. Antioxidants are able to fight free-radical damage, and reduce the risk of cancer cells and diseases from forming. Basil also contains essential oils, which are anti-inflammatory, so it may be beneficial for those with arthritis, heart disease, or type 2 diabetes. Its anti-inflammatory properties may also be helpful for those who experience headaches, poor digestion, or acid reflux. Not only does it contain these powerful nutrients, but it can also be used as a flavour enhancer in cooking, replacing added sugar or salt. Therefore, using basil in your cooking can reduce the amount of unnecessary additional seasoning. Basil can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, sauces, and tea. It’s most popular use is in pesto,… Read More

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Food and Recipe of the Month: Spinach

Care of Andrea Howe, of glowingongreens.com  Spinach, a favourable leafy green, is famous for being packed full of non-heme iron, as well as shrinking down into almost nothing when cooked. This vegetable is unique as its mild flavour can be incorporated into almost every type of dish, from smoothies and green pancakes, to pasta and salads. Not only is it impressively versatile, but it comes with an abundance of nutrients. Spinach is an excellent source of iron, which is especially important for infants, pregnant women and breast-feeding mothers, and those not eating meat. Iron travels in the blood attached to hemoglobin to help deliver oxygen around the body. It is best absorbed with vitamin C, so add a little lemon or lime juice over your spinach salad for maximum nutrient benefits. Spinach is also packed with potassium, magnesium, vitamin K, and calcium, which are all important nutrients for strong bone health. These nutrients can strengthen bone density and reduce fractures, especially in older adults and women over the age of 50. Spinach loses volume when wilted and condenses, which is the best way to maximize the benefits of these nutrients. Spinach can be found in various forms, such as… Read More

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Food and Recipe of the Month: Grilled Lemon and Garlic Asparagus

Care of Andrea Howe, of glowingongreens.com  With Spring on the horizon and buds beginning to grow, local asparagus is the perfect April vegetable to have in your fridge. Grilling, steaming, or roasting, this vegetable is so versatile and can be prepared with a variety of meals. Asparagus is known for its bright green colour and crunchy texture. This green colour is from a pigment called chlorophyll, which is a phytonutrient with abilities to reduce inflammation and stop free-radical damage. This means it can reduce cancer cell formation, heal wounds and tissue damage, as well as increase energy levels. Additionally, that crunch from asparagus is from their high fibre and water content. Studies show that a diet rich in fibre can help with a variety of comorbidities such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. It makes us feel full longer, reduces blood sugar and blood pressure, and improves overall well-being. Although blanching asparagus is the healthiest way to cook it, they can be prepared in just about any way. Try this Grilled Lemon and Garlic Asparagus recipe to serve at your next dinner party. Grilled Lemon and Garlic Asparagus – 1 bunch asparagus – 1 lemon, juice and zest… Read More

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Food and Recipe of the Month: Vegetable Barley Soup

Care of Andrea Howe of glowingongreens.com  As the cold winter months progress, choosing hearty dishes is essential to stay warm. Barley is an impressive grain due its vast health benefits, and its ability to keep us feeling full for a long time. Barley, like other whole grains, is rich in B vitamins which aid in brain health, red blood cell development, and increasing energy levels. Additionally, barley is rich in soluble fibre, particularly beta-glucan which causes us to feel full for longer thus reducing appetite and aiding in weight loss. This fibre can also reduce blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol, lowering the risk for cardiac diseases. Beta-glucans also produce short-chain fatty acids which reduce inflammation and reduce the risk of cancer cell formation. Not only do these powerful grains have amazing health benefits, they are also delicious and easy to cook. This chewy and nutty grain can be served is many dishes like soups, stews, salads, or on its own. Check out this Vegetable Barley Soup recipe to gain these amazing benefits. Ingredients – 1 tbsp olive oil – 1 yellow onion, diced – 3 carrots, peeled and diced – 3 stalks of celery,… Read More

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Food & Recipe of the Month: Pumpkin Ravioli

Care of Andrea Howe of glowingongreens.com  I bet you thought pumpkin season was over, but not yet! Pumpkins are such a versatile vegetable and are packed full of beneficial nutrients. They are a great fall staple to incorporate into your diet. Pumpkins are known for their rich orange colour. This comes from the powerful antioxidant beta-carotene which our body converts into vitamin A. This antioxidant is able to stabilize free radicals from damaging our cells. Free radicals are toxins found in our environment from pollution, smoking, alcohol, and more. Free radical damage can cause advanced aging as well as certain diseases and cancers. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for our bodies. It is known for maintaining adequate vision, as well as strengthening our immune system. Studies show that high amounts of vitamin A in our body can reduce risk for certain cancers including lung, bladder, and cervical. Additionally, pumpkins are rich in vitamin C, another powerhouse antioxidant. Vitamin C is known to increase white blood cell protection, strengthening our immune system as well as aiding in skin and bone repair. Pumpkins just may be the perfect food to give you all the nutrients needed to fight… Read More

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Food and Recipe of the Month: Tahini Dill Dressing

Care of Amy Symington of ameliaeats.com  Contrary to popular belief, tahini isn’t solely used for making hummus or just topping falafels. Its rich and creamy texture lends itself to both savoury and sweet recipes. Use it in noodle bowls, stir-fries, dressings, marinades, sauces, dips, on toast with fresh figs or in cakes, muffins, or cheesecakes! Even though it is simply just ground up sesame seeds, its flavour is quite complex. It has a mildly sweet, yet slightly bitter taste and is often used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. It is rich in protein, healthy fats, and vitamin E and is a source of calcium. It also contains anti-inflammatory properties helping to minimize inflammation in the body and consequently reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. Try the below creamy and dreamy tahini dressing as a fun and flavourful way to reinvent those winter root vegetables whether they are roasted, spiralized or just straight up raw! Recipe and photograph by Darren Kemper are shared from Chef Amy’s cookbook “The Long Table Cookbook: Plant-based recipes for optimal health” available for preorder online here. All author… Read More

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Food and Recipe of the Month: Cherries and Cacao Cherry Cheesecake

Care of Andrea Howe at glowingongreens.com  Cherries hold the prize for being the most popular summer fruit in our kitchens! They’re tart, sweet, and that perfect treat on a hot day. Not only are cherries bursting with flavour, but they are also packed full of amazing antioxidants, vitamins, and nutrients. Cherries are known for their deep red/purple colour. That bright colour comes from a powerful antioxidant called anthocyanin. These antioxidants can aid in cell damage repair, and preventing further harm from occurring, resulting in a reduced risk of many cancers and chronic disease. They can also reduce blood pressure levels, cholesterol levels, and increase metabolism. Are you an athlete? Cherries have been seen to enhance exercise performance and speed up recovery time by reducing muscle soreness in marathon runners. They can also reduce inflammation in those individuals with arthritis or inflammatory diseases due to their ability to fight free-radicals and reduction of uric acid levels in the body.  So, not only do cherries taste good, but they are a powerhouse for combating many health conditions. Add this superfruit into your diet with this Cacao Cherry Cheesecake… Read More

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Food and Recipe of the Month: Peaches

Care of Andrea Howe at glowingongreens.com  Summer weather calls for peachy moods, and peach-filled recipes. This bright fruit is packed full of flavour and nutrients, and a perfect addition to your plate. Peaches are known for their abundance of antioxidants. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that aids in cell repair from free-radical damage, protecting your body from aging and disease. Additionally, they contain fibre, that key nutrient for improved overall health. Fibre reduces inflammation and can improve symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders such as IBS. It also reduces LDL cholesterol, and blood sugar levels, thus reducing risk of Type 2 Diabetes and heart disease. This juicy fruit can be enjoyed in a variety of ways like baked in a tart, sliced in a salad, or grilled as a decadent accompaniment. Peaches are an Ontario grown summer fruit and can be found at local farmers markets and grocery stores. Try this rich grilled peach pancake recipe at your next family brunch. Blueberry and Grilled Peach Pancakes Ingredients – 1 cup oat flour – 1 tbsp flax seed – 1 tbsp baking powder – 1 tsp cinnamon – ½ tsp salt – 1 cup… Read More

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Food and Recipe of the Month: Strawberry Hazelnut Chia Pudding Parfait

Care of Amy Symington of ameliaeats.com Strawberry season is an exciting time of year because it means longer, warmer and sunnier days in addition to eating these sweet, sun-warmed berries! Aside from being almost everyone’s favourite tasty treat in spring they are also something to feel good about including in your daily diet! Berries, in general, contain anthocyanins, which are dark colour pigments found in fruits and vegetables and also a powerful antioxidant, which has been shown to help with the prevention and management of chronic diseases such as heart disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes and cancer. They are also an important component of an anti-inflammatory diet aiding in the reduction of chronic inflammation which has also been linked to an increase in chronic disease. Moreover, they contain high levels of vitamin C, another powerful antioxidant which helps to neutralize damage-causing free radicals in the body. Enjoy them in smoothies, your granola, a chia pudding parfait or baked in pies, tarts, muffins, cakes and scones or simply eat them out of a bowl straight up! Strawberry Hazelnut Chia Pudding Parfait Makes 2 servings Ingredients 1 cup unsweetened almond milk ½ cup chia seeds 1 tbsp maple syrup… Read More

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