The foundation of this cookbook comes from the simple concepts of “eating for health”, seasonally, locally, and cooking from scratch. Sourcing nutritious, safe, and fresh foods reap the reward of more energy, less toxic load, and aging gracefully. These recipes encourage seasonal produce that will support our needs throughout the year. When we cook from scratch, we can wisely choose healthful ingredients which taste much better. Avoiding the “center aisles” at the grocery store where the processed foods are will lower the food bill, eliminate the cheap and toxic ingredients, and decrease salt, sugars, and bad fats that play havoc with our health.

 

The introductions at the beginning of the book and starting each chapter further encourages healthful ingredients. The main introduction explains of healthful choices of cooking staples, such as fats and oils, salt and pepper, seasonings, and grains.  The BREAKFAST BEGINNINGS introduction encourages starting the day “well fueled” with “clean” proteins, fruits and vegetables, and some grains. THE MAIN EVENT Introduction helps wise choices of all the different protein sources, including vegan. My favorite and the largest, FRESH SALADS & DRESSINGS chapter has an introduction explaining the importance of organic, especially with fresh produce. Commercially prepared dressings have the potential of us ingesting unhealthy oils, and chemicals that are used as stabilizers, conditioners, and preservatives. Fresh made dressings are so easy to whisk up. I have included my favorites which I have a few in the refrigerator most of the time. The DELICIOUS SOUPS introduction provides a few guidelines for making delicious and nutritious broths, the foundation of any great soup. Choosing healthful seasonings is also mentioned. The SUPER SIDES introduction visits several “super” vegetables, encouraging eating more of these great vegetables and grains.  The DESSERTS AND SNACKS introduction explains man’s addiction to sweets. These recipes encourage natural sweeteners, healthy fats, and using seasonal fruits. As we decrease the daily consumption of sugars, our bodies will recalibrate our sugar drive.

 

Six chapters are divided with colored edges, making them easier to find. These recipes have been prepared numerous times in my kitchen. The ingredients and instructions are clear and to the point.   Many of them present variations for the cook to add a personal touch. That is part of the “art of cooking”! I will also continue experimenting in “my lab”. I cannot help myself! My desire is to inspire others to LOVE preparing nutritious food for themselves and their loved ones to promote improved health.