Archive for: February, 2018

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Stressed-out cacao trees produce more nutritionally potent chocolate – new research

A bite of your favorite chocolate bar can take off the stress for most people – studies have already looked into it – but research has shown that putting cocoa trees under stress can lead to better-tasting chocolate. In particular, drought and other weather conditions have more impact on cocoa production than how the tree themselves are grown. The […]

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Green leafy vegetables irrigated with wastewater may contain high levels of toxic heavy metals

A study published in the IOSR Journal of Environmental Science, Toxicology and Food Technology showed that irrigating agricultural fields and green leafy vegetables  with wastewater may result in potentially hazardous buildup of heavy metals including copper (Cu), lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn), as well as nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr) and cadmium (Cd). “On the survey of study […]

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Quick Chicken Pho

Great for pho beginners, this recipe is also terrific for cooks in a hurry,” writes Nguyen. “Keys to this streamlined approach include toasting spices and lightly searing ginger and green onion, which help to extract flavor fast. Poaching the chicken in the broth adds savory depth.” (The broth is a lower-sodium adaptation of Nguyen’s original. […]

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Pan-Roasted Pork Chops with Cabbage and Carrots

A generous side of fresh veggies makes hearty comfort food lighter. Super-succulent pork chops and roasted carrots are paired with vastly underrated cabbage to create a vibrant vegetable medley that is equal parts flavorful and nutritious. Aromatic caraway lends earthiness while apple jelly adds a sweet contrast to the finishing sauce. This meal is pretty enough […]

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Beef Tenderloin with Balsamic Asparagus

Beef tenderloin steaks are often considered a special-occasion cut, but when they go on sale (or you’re ready for a splurge), this classic preparation is foolproof. Use a timer rather than turning, prodding, or overcooking the steaks, and set the timer again while they rest so you don’t slice too soon. You could also use […]

Arugula, Egg, and Charred Asparagus Salad

Just a hint of char on the asparagus adds fantastic complexity to this simple 5-ingredient spring salad. Look for medium stalks rather than pencil-thin ones—those would char and dry out too quickly. A soft-boiled egg adds protein and richness; let the slightly runny yolks mingle with the rest of the salad before enjoying. Whole-milk Greek […]

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Cod with Herbed Pea Relish

Ingredients 1 cup thawed frozen green peas 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano 2 tablespoons chopped shallots 2 tablespoons capers 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 4 (6-oz.) cod fillets 1 tablespoon olive oil How to Make It Combine peas, […]

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Farro, Green Bean, and Kale Salad

This recipe goes with: Farro Salad Lunch Box Ingredients 4 cups water 1 cup halved haricots verts or green beans 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 1 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 (8.5-oz.) pkg. precooked farro (2 cups) 2 cups thinly sliced lacinato […]

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Spanish “Tortilla” Omelet

Say hello to next-level breakfast for dinner. Inspired by a traditional crispy, potato-studded Spanish tortilla, our quick-fix fluffy omelet is topped with potato chips for a touch of crunch. Ingredients 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided 1 cup thinly vertically sliced onion 4 garlic cloves, minced 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano, divided 3/8 teaspoon kosher salt […]

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Spinach, Hummus, and Bell Pepper Wraps

Fresh, flavorful, veggie-packed, and ready in a 10-minute snap—now that’s a meal we can stand behind! Hummus delivers a winning combo of protein and healthy fat for staying power, while fresh bell peppers and spinach provide a satisfying crunch. Tomato-and-basil feta cheese adds a kick of salty tang and Mediterranean flair. Make this wrap the […]