Holidays and celebrations are a part of life where food is often the centerpiece. Whether your typical routine meals are low carb, slow carb or no particular diet approach at all, joy and tradition are more important than deprivation during the holidays.
That said, if you want to stay true to low carb or slow carb during holidays or celebrations, it does not have to mean tasteless, boring dishes. There are many options and many recipes that can stand in and stand up to joyful social eating.
Valentine’s Day
This Southern Italian-Sicilian recipe for fresh asparagus can be served as a side dish or a snack, either hot or at room temperature. A light batter of Parmigiano or Pecorino Romano cheese, garlic, bread crumb, chopped Italian parsley and egg turn fresh asparagus into a special treat that Italians, and my family, devour in a …
High teas and afternoon teas are great, but they can be a bit on the formal side. A casual afternoon tea with snacks and games can be a great alternative. Throwing your own party means you can control the budget, select your favorite finger food and enjoy a creative activity if so desired. We have …
Persian saffron rice pudding makes a scrumptious springtime dessert, often enjoyed for Ramadan or Easter. In this recipe, traditional Persian spices of cardamom, cinnamon and saffron pair with sweet rice for the classic rice pudding dessert. Rose water is also added, which gives it a floral hint that is quite unique. Jump to: RECIPE | …
This Southern Italian olive oil cake recipe is enhanced with fresh oranges, Grand Marnier, and cardamom spice. Easy to make in one bowl with a whisk, this cake is not-too-sweet, and very aromatic. It is enjoyed by Italians for breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack, or as a dessert. I especially love it during Easter week as …
For many people in urban settings, growing tomatoes and edible plants in pots is necessary due to space constraints (or lack of an area with 6 hours of direct sunlight). This video and post explains the 6 key requirements for growing food in containers or pots. Jump to: Growing Vegetables in Pots | Choosing the …
Short on garden space? You can still grow your favorite vegetables on a balcony, on a deck, on a roof top, or in a small side yard. Growing vegetables in small urban spaces is easier however if you opt for growing baby vegetables (aka mini vegetables). Jump to: Benefits and Nutrition of Baby Veggies | …
Have a kid in college or a loved one living abroad? This holiday season, let them know you’re thinking of them by sending a themed holiday care package filled with homemade treats and other goodies. Below, you’ll find 7 festive recipes that ship well. Jump to: Chocolate Cherry Bark | Pumpkin Seed Brittle | Zucchini …
Looking for a nice martini recipe for the holidays, to wow guests at your next party, or just to celebrate Friday night? I’ve got you covered! Have a look at my 8 favorite martini drinks for every occasion. What Exactly is a Martini? Let’s clarify one thing first. Traditionally, a martini is just a mix …
The seed catalogs all start coming to the mailbox in late Winter and that means it’s time to dream of your perfect garden. It’s going to be different this year right? Well gardening has a ton of benefits, even when it’s not perfect, and these gift ideas are perfect for your favorite gardener and their …
Make the holidays extra festive with one of my favorite twists on the classic: a peppermint espresso martini! The perfect boozy pick-me-up to serve after a long family dinner, your guests will love this sweet and minty holiday cocktail. Jump to:RECIPEIngredientsMethod Peppermint Espresso Martini Ingredients Espresso martini… but make it festive! If you’re still looking …
The Italians I know go all out for Winter holiday celebrations, and this show-stopping beef braciole (aka braciola) is often a centerpiece on the Southern Italian table. This Sicilian (Neapolitan) version includes pine nuts, prosciutto, parsley, garlic and cheese as the filling (raisins if you want the sweet flavor). It is served with high quality …
This version of pozole rojo is from mi amiga who lives in the Bajío region of Mexico (west-central Mexico). It is a luscious slow-cooked stew made with pork, hominy, Mexican spices, and a blend of mild to moderate chile peppers in the rojo sauce. It is simple to make without a lot of hands-on time, …
Have you ever been served spicy chile oil with tasty and addictively crunchy bits at a Mexican restaurant or bar? This homemade Mexican chile oil is called salsa macha, and it’s a breeze to make. Use it on everything from tacos to rice to pizza! Jump to: Recipe | Serving Suggestions | Shelf Life What …
This buttery galette dough makes a free-form tart that is not only easy but is crisp and flaky and can be made ahead by several days without drying out. The filling is the popular New England combination of apples and cheddar cheese, along with aromatic Fall spices. A beautiful addition to your Thanksgiving table! Jump …
Move over, fake-tasting and sugary supermarket vanilla vodka! Find out how to make delicious vanilla vodka yourself at home using just two ingredients: vodka and real vanilla beans. Jump to: RECIPE | Ingredients | Method | Ideas for Drinks I love playing around with making my own liqueurs! Whether it’s something summery like blueberry-infused liqueur …