The Spaghetti Squash

This year my resolution was not to get fit, or to slim down, but to attempt to try new recipes on a more regular basis. To focus on healthy eating by taking basic vegetables and glamorizing them into delicious innovative meals. Last night was my first undertaking (dun, dun, dun) with the spaghetti squash. At first, I must admit I had never had this before, nor had ANY clue how to make it, but after last nights (easy) success I can seriously admit this will become a regular staple in my diet. As someone who has a deep love affair for all things carb, I was looking for a healthy pasta substitute that gives me the same visual and mouth watering appeal. Spaghetti squash, you are it! Here is a simple, easy to follow recipe for making a delicious spaghetti squash "faux pasta" dinner that you will surely come to love. I look forward to more adventures with this tasty item and promise to share any successes! Do you have any vegetable recipe recommends? I would love to hear about them!

Laura & Squash - 1    Carb packed pasta - 0

  *   1 medium spaghetti squash
  *   6 oz of roasted chicken sliced (or lean ground turkey can also be used)
  *   1/4 onion
  *   1 garlic clove
  *   1 tbsp oregano
  *   1 can of plain organic tomato sauce (homemade sauce can also be used, see here! or  just  chopped tomatoes roasted in the oven)

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees. Cut squash in half and scoop out the seeds and mush, then bake cut sides face down on a baking sheet until tender - about 45 minutes. Let stand until cool enough to handle. Scrape flesh into long strands using a fork. Let the strains drain in a colander, but cover them to keep warm. While the squash is draining grab a non stick pan and heat up chopped onion and garlic until soft but not brown. Add oregano and your cooked chicken slices and mix until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Next stir in your plain tomato sauce and allow the mixture to cook together to blend flavours.  Now plate your squash, add your sauce and sprinkle with fresh herbs for added flavour! Enjoy!

B b q Bliss

This wednesday was the perfect day for a bbq. No better way to break up a busy work week

 than some time outdoors in the fresh air with happy feet. 

There was sunshine, steaks and shades. 

Life is good!

lipgloss, burts bees "rubarb" lip shimmer/nail polish,opi "it's wine o'clock!" / sunglasses, dollarama / sandals, aldo / mouth watering steaks, village grocer / beaut blue sky, nature.  

Turmeric : The Golden Spice

Turmeric, is a spice of the ginger family that is not only stunning in colour, but has been around for centuries. The active ingredient in this golden spice is curcumin. This interesting plant, typically grows wild in the forests of South and Southeast Asia and is a main ingredient in a variety of Indian, Persian and Thai dishes. 

In medieval times turmeric became known as "Indian saffron", since it was widely used (and still is) as a cheaper alternative to the far more expensive saffron spice. 



Much like its ginger relative, the root has a yellowish-brown exterior with a dull orange interior that looks bright yellow when powdered. The aroma it gives off is rather earthy and the flavour is warm with a sharp and slightly bitter aftertaste.

Buying:
Although you may occasionally find fresh turmeric in the produce aisle, you'll have a much easier time finding the dried variety. Ground turmeric will maintain its colouring properties indefinitely, although the flavour will diminish over time (6-8 months roughly), be safe  purchase in moderation. Also, be sure to store this spice in airtight containers, out of sunlight.

Cooking:
 
For cooking, this golden spice pairs well with lentils, cauliflower, chicken and lamb. It is often recommended that you saute the spice in a little oil before adding it to other ingredients; this technique, called “blooming”, brings out turmeric's flavour. Be careful though, as turmeric can stain skin, clothing, countertops, and even utensils.

Healing:
Turmeric’s ability to heal wounds is renowned in India, as they have even invented  Band-Aids saturated with this spice. To try this at home, make a paste out of turmeric and water, apply to the area for up to an hour, and then rinse. Be sure to wrap your infected area with a cloth as not to get the turmeric colouring on other things. Since the colour doesn't dissolve well in water, use a little hydrogen peroxide to lift the stain before washing it out. This spice is also extremely well-known for its helpful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. You can find turmeric pills within many of the local pharmacies to help in the care of anti-inflammatory related issues.