SEASONED THOUGHTS

Extra Virgin Olive Oil—often called EVOO—is one of the most celebrated foods in the world, yet also one of the most misunderstood. When it’s real, fresh, and truly extra virgin, it’s a powerhouse of flavor, nutrition, and natural goodness. But not all olive oils are created equal, and understanding the value of true  EVOO can make all the difference in your kitchen and your health. Picture of Koroneiki olives growing in Messenia, Greece Well-known olive oil brands are sometim

At first glance, seed oils may sound perfectly natural. After all, they come from plants like sunflower, canola, soy, and corn — how bad could that be? But the truth is, most seed oils you find in today’s grocery stores are far from natural. They’re highly processed, genetically modified, chemically treated, and a major source of inflammation in the modern diet. Canola Oil Seed oils — sometimes called “vegetable oils” — are made by extracting oil from tiny seeds that don’t na

The Surprising Story of Canola Origins: Canola oil began as rapeseed oil -- a lubricant once used to keep World War II submarine engines and heavy machinery running smoothly. It wasn't originally intended for food, but for industrial use Reinvented: In the 1970s, Canadian scientists bred a new version of the rapeseed plant with lower levels of natural toxins. To make it more appealing for the food industry, they renamed it "canola" short for " Canadian oil." The new name

When I cook, one of the most important things I pay attention to is the quality of the ingredients I’m using—especially making sure they’re clean, fresh, and responsibly sourced. It’s not about being perfect, but I’ve learned that what I put into my body really does matter. I feel better when I eat better. When I use real, whole foods—things without a ton of additives or chemicals—I notice a difference. I have more energy, fewer stomach issues, and just an overall better sens

Now that you understand the benefits and flavors of organic spices, how can you incorporate them into your cooking? Here are some practical tips: Start Simple : Begin by adding a pinch of your favorite organic spice to everyday dishes. This could be sprinkling paprika on roasted vegetables or adding cumin to your soups and stews. Create Homemade Spice Blends : Combine several organic spices to create your own blends. For example, mix organic paprika, garlic powder, and onion

Shopping for groceries definitely feels like it takes longer these days, and a big reason for that is the need to read ingredient labels. It’s not just about picking up whatever looks good anymore—now we have to take the time to check what’s actually inside everything. Here’s why: 1. Health Concerns Are Top of Mind People are way more focused on health now. Whether it’s trying to avoid processed sugar, checking for trans fats, or steering clear of anything artificial, we’ve a