SAVE THOUSANDS on GROCERIES in 2024! #savemoney #moneysavingtips #homemadesimple

Through our website, we want to bring people closer to delicious, creative meals that nourish both body and soul. We don’t intend to become famous chefs –we just love food!

We firmly believe in celebrating the beauty of different cultures through their cuisine. From home kitchens to 5-star restaurants, each meal has its own secret recipe for success.

The love for Saffron initially inspired us on this journey, but our mission is much larger than that. We strive to provide helpful resources and meaningful conversations about organic farming techniques, cooking tips and culinary customs from around the world.

If you’d like to join us in showcasing your special family recipes or other noteworthy ideas relating to food culture, please reach out at [email protected] –your contribution will be highly cherished!

For now, love yourself and enjoy this one ... 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the side effects of basil?

Basil is an herb that originated in tropical regions of India, Africa, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina, and Chile.

The plant is easy to grow in most climates and requires little maintenance. Basil also thrives in poor soil conditions and is very drought tolerant.

As for the health benefits, more than 200 known compounds are found in basil, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, lignans, polysaccharides, essential oils, vitamins, and minerals.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, basil contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties which may help relieve symptoms associated with arthritis, asthma, allergies, bronchitis, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, digestive disorders, depression, eczema, insomnia, infections, migraines, osteoporosis, psoriasis, respiratory problems, stress, and ulcers.

Basil is also a culinary spice and is often added to tomato sauces, soups, salads, pasta dishes, rice dishes, dips, casseroles, pizza toppings, pesto, chicken wings, and popcorn.

However, like all herbs, basil should be consumed in moderation. Too much of anything is not good for you. For example, eating large amounts of basil could lead to stomach upset. And if you have sensitive tummies, avoid consuming basil during pregnancy.

If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your doctor before taking herbal supplements.

You should only take one type of supplement at a time. If you take other medications, make sure they do not interact with each other.

You should never use herbs while on medication unless directed by your doctor.

Some people experience allergic reactions when using herbs, especially those allergic to ragweed. Symptoms include hives, swelling around the mouth or eyes, shortness of breath, chest tightness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness, fainting, heart palpitations, blurred vision, loss of consciousness, seizures, or even death.

Some people who take certain medications may develop an allergy to basil. These drugs include:

• Antacids (like Alka Seltzer)
• Anti-anxiety medicines (Valium, Xanax, Ativan, etc.)
• Beta-blockers (like Propranolol)
• Blood thinners (like Coumadin)
• Calcium channel blockers (like Amlodipine)
• Cholesterol-lowering drugs (like Lipitor, Zocor, Mevacor, and Pravachol)
• Diabetes medicine (like Glucophage)
• Diuretics (like Lasix)
• Heartburn medicines (like Prilosec OTC)
• Hormone therapy (like Premarin, Tamoxifen, Femara)
• Insulin (like Humalog, Lantus, Novolin R)
• NSAIDs (like Aleve, Motrin, Advil, Excedrin, Tylenol, Ibuprofen)
• Oral contraceptives (like Ortho Evra, Yasmin, Loestrin, Ovrette, Yaz, and Seasonale)
• Pain relievers (like Aspirin, Celebrex, Vicodin, Percodan, Darvocet, Dilaudid, Fiorinal, Tylenol 3s, Naproxen, Motrin, Tramadol, Ultram, Voltaren

Should You Use Herbs and Spices for Brain Health?

Herbs and spices have been used for centuries to improve brain health. Research shows that these natural remedies may help prevent dementia and Alzheimer's. Some herbs may even boost memory.

However, no scientific evidence proves that eating an herb-rich diet can keep your mind sharp. When it comes to improving cognitive function, there are more effective ways to do it.

One study found that older adults who took 1000 mg of vitamin B6 daily had fewer mental lapses than those taking placebo pills. Another study showed that drinking coffee could increase blood flow to the brain. Other studies suggest that exercise, socialization, and sleep improve brain health.

The bottom line is that herbs and spices probably won't make much difference to your overall health. But they might give you extra energy and focus, which can come in handy during the day.

Is eating raw basil good for you?

I'm sure everyone knows that fresh herbs are great for cooking but did you know that you could eat them too? Raw, uncooked herbs are packed full of nutrients and vitamins that we normally have to cook.

They contain more antioxidants than any fruit or vegetable. And they also help our immune systems stay strong and healthy.

The best way to enjoy these delicious little green gems is to eat them raw from the garden. But there's nothing wrong with enjoying them cooked, either. They taste even better when sautéed in olive oil and served alongside pasta or rice.

There are lots of ways to incorporate raw herbs into recipes. Add them to salads, soups, sandwiches, wraps, omelets, stir-fries, and pesto.

Just make sure you wash them well first!

What is the difference between "regular" and smoked paprika powder?

Regular Paprika Powder (Piment d'Espelette) is an essential ingredient for our recipes. We use it for its intense flavor and color. It's also used as a spice and seasoning agent. Smoked Paprika Powder (Paprika Chorizo) adds a smoky taste and aroma to dishes. Both types of Paprika Powder come from Spain, where they grow the best peppers in the world.

Smoked Paprika Powder (Chorizo Paprika) is made from red peppers, which are dried slowly in special ovens. This gives them a rich flavor. They are then ground and mixed with salt, garlic, and spices.

Regular Paprika Powder (Espelette Paprika) is made by grinding green bell peppers without additives.

Is it okay to use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

It is best to pick up fresh herbs whenever possible when using herbs.

Although dried herbs are convenient, they don’t provide the same benefits as fresh herbs.

Fresh herbs contain essential oils that give your food a unique flavor. These oils help preserve the nutrients within the herb.

Dried herbs lose all their flavor after drying, so they cannot replace fresh herbs.

You should only use dried herbs if you absolutely must. Otherwise, you should get your fresh herbs from the market.

How is basil used for medicinal purposes?

In ancient times, doctors would prescribe basil leaves to treat colds and coughs. Today, basil contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties, making it an ideal remedy for arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, eczema, gout, hay fever, indigestion, migraines, menstrual cramps, sinus infections, sore throats, ulcers, varicose veins, and more.

Basil is also known for its ability to help protect against cancer, heart disease, diabetes, skin conditions, and even aging.

Basil is often referred to as "the herb of grace" because it helps us relax and unwind after stressful situations. It is also said to improve memory and concentration, boost energy levels, increase libido, and enhance athletic performance.

The list goes on and on. Basil is a versatile plant that offers a wide range of benefits for our health and well-being.

Statistics

• For those with high cholesterol, garlic supplementation appears to reduce total and/or LDL cholesterol by about 10-15% (72Trusted Source73Trusted (healthline.com)
• Studies have shown that cinnamon can lower fasting blood sugars by 10-29% in diabetic patients, which is a significant amount (9Trusted Source10Trusted (healthline.com)

External Links

[TAG100]

• Peppermint oil (Mintoil®) in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: A prospective, double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial


• Curcumin reverses the effects of chronic stress on behavior, the HPA axis, BDNF expression, and phosphorylation of CREB

[TAG103]

• Amazon.com: Starwest Botanicals Organic Bilberries Whole, 4 Ounces: Grocery & Gourmet Food

[TAG105]

• Ashwagandha | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center


• Grape Seed | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

[TAG108]

• Efficacy and Adverse Effects of Ginkgo Biloba for Cognitive Impairment and Dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis - IOS Press

How To

How to Use Herbs and Spices in Cooking?

Herbs and spices are a great way to add flavor without adding calories. If you've been cooking for years, you already know how easy it is to make even bland foods taste delicious. Try these tips to add more flair to your dishes.

Herbs and spices are essential ingredients in any kitchen. In addition to making food taste better, they also help keep food fresh longer. From enhancing the flavors of soups and sauces to infusing drinks with exotic tastes, herbs and spices go far beyond traditional cooking.

The most important thing to remember when using herbs and spices is to use them sparingly. Even though they may seem like powerful ingredients, they have a strong scent. So, sprinkle them on top instead of piling them onto a dish.

You'll find that the best herbs and spices come in small containers. This makes them easier to measure out, so there won't be any waste. Plus, you'll save money because you won't have to buy large amounts.

Another tip is to avoid placing herbs and spices directly on hot pans. Heat will quickly dry out the herbs and spices, leaving a bitter aftertaste. Instead, place them on paper towels to absorb excess moisture.

Use herbs and spices liberally in recipes where they naturally complement each other. For example, cinnamon pairs well with apples, while garlic complements tomatoes. Once you learn how to combine flavors, you'll be able to create your signature dishes.

Try experimenting with different herbs and spices to spice up meals. For instance, mix thyme, rosemary, oregano, and basil in a bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste. Then toss the mixture with pasta, chicken, or fish.

After the meal, store leftover herbs and spices in airtight jars. This will prevent them from drying out. Also, wrap unused herbs and spices tightly in plastic wrap. They should stay fresh for at least three months.

If you're looking for ways to improve your diet, consider trying new herbs and spices. You can experiment with different blends until you discover your favorite combination. The possibilities are endless!

[TAG110] If you love lasagna, but don’t love the time it takes to do all that layering, then this amazing lasagna soup is for you! Unlike many lasagna soup recipes,

[TAG111] Thanks to Neovide for sponsoring this video. US customer link: Europe customer link: Indian food is one of the most flavorful cuisine in the world. It

[TAG112] A collection of fun and delicious soup recipes is just what is needed for deciding on what to make for dinner tonight!

[TAG113] Homemade meatballs are drenched in a creamy mushroom sauce and served over noodles, rice, or potatoes. This dish goes from stovetop to tabletop in 45 minutes!

[TAG114] Gluten-Free Apple CrispThis gluten-free apple crisp combines soft-baked apples flavored with maple and warm spices and a crumbly oat topping. Instead of using

[TAG115] Easy Apple Galette RecipeFrom-scratch apple galette is as delicious and impressive as apple pie, but half the time and work! This easy yet impressive fall

[TAG116] These stuffed peppers deserve a spot in your dinner rotation! They’re the perfect combination of comforting and fresh, filled with a delicious blend of rice

[TAG117] Guess the food & drink by emoji! Test your knowledge with this food, drink and fast-food challenge! Can you Guess The Food By Emoji? Put your skills to the

[TAG118] Baked Spaghetti is a speedy and simple casserole option, perfect for those busy weeknights when time is tight! Pair it with a side salad and garlic toast for a

[TAG119] Amazing Vietnamese Street Food Early 2023 - Recommended By Food Oscar 00:00 Ho Thi Ky Night Market 8:03 Mac Thien Tich Street 16:50 Da Kao Market

[TAG120] "Food Wars" hosts Harry Kersh and Joe Avella travel across NYC to find the best bagel in the city. They'll be visiting four different locations in just one day

[TAG121] Everything you love about a classic Caesar salad with a few delicious extras! I love fewer foods in life more than a really good classic Caesar salad. But

[TAG122] Join this channel to get access to perks: Music Credit: Back in My Bag, Again - Iso Indies Epidemic Sound Like to try it. Let me share the link:

[TAG123] Easy to make full flavoured recipes. Life is too short for boring food!

[TAG124] Pumpkin Cake is a warm and flavorful dessert with easy ingredients. Top it with some cream cheese frosting or eat it as-is for dessert or an afternoon snack!

[TAG125] Funny stories about healthy food with Maya and her family!

[TAG126] This mango smoothie recipe is like sunshine in a glass! It’s cool and creamy, with a sweet, tangy tropical flavor and the cheeriest color around. It tastes

[TAG127] This easy cheesy nachos recipe is loaded with seasoned beef, beans, and lots of fresh, flavorful toppings. Serve with salsa & sour cream for a delicious

[TAG128] Live from LA Cocina de Gloria Molina in Los Angeles, CA: An exhibition based on Recetario para la memoria, a cookbook that collects recipes and remembrances

[TAG129] Pumpkin Pancakes (Thick & Flavorful!)Wake up to homemade pumpkin pancakes filled with the warm spiced flavors of fall (and sometimes chocolate chips, too).

[TAG130] Pumpkin Spice WafflesAs delightfully crisp as the fall mornings they're made for, these enticingly spiced pumpkin waffles are an extra-special way to start

[TAG131] Thanks Chef iQ for sponsoring this video. Check out Chef iQ smart meat thermometer and use code GUGAFOODS20 for 20% off: Not many things impress me anymore

[TAG132] Salisbury Steak is one of our favorite comfort foods! Tender beef patties smothered in a rich onion and mushroom gravy, this one-pan Salisbury steak dish is

[TAG133] British and American "Food Wars" hosts Harry Kersh and Joe Avella swapped places to try each other’s fast food menu items and find all the differences between

[TAG134] Good healthy lunch ideas are like gold. In the middle of a busy work day, lunch is the longest break I take. It’s a time to reset, relax, and re-energize to

[TAG135] This pumpkin overnights oats recipe is guaranteed to help start the day right! Creamy, sweet, and with all the great fall pumpkin, and pumpkin spice flavors

[TAG136] Baked Apple Cider French ToastThis baked apple cider French toast combines some of the fall season's favorite flavors: apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, pecans,

[TAG137] HEALTHY & KID-FRIENDLY MEALS easy dinner recipes made in minutes. The Latest Recipes st. Patrick's Day Recipes Hello! I'm Sara! Welcome to Dinner at the Zoo!

[TAG138] Beef Bourguignon is an elegant, hearty dish that's cooked all in one pot! Serve with fresh buns or a side salad for a dish everyone will love!

[TAG139] This classic French crepe recipe is easy to make with 7 basic ingredients. Feel free to customize with your favorite sweet or savory fillings! Is there

[TAG140] This pear salad recipe is easy to make in 15 minutes, and has gourmet appeal. It features blue cheese or feta, toasted almonds (feel free to substitute walnuts

[TAG141] Make a classic lasagna the easy way in the Crockpot!  This simple recipe is layered with noodles, meat sauce, and ricotta cheese filling, just like the oven

[TAG142] These chicken breasts are tender and juicy on the inside with deliciously crispy skin and an amazing mushroom filling! This recipe is easy enough for a

[TAG143] Brown Butter Pumpkin Oatmeal CookiesThese soft and chewy brown butter pumpkin oatmeal cookies are the perfect choice if you’re looking for a fun, flavorful,

[TAG144] In my book, this chilaquiles recipe is the ULTIMATE Sunday brunch. Sorry pancakes, waffles, and French toast—after years of living in Austin, I wake up

[TAG145] These homemade biscuits are so quick and easy. You can have fluffy flaky biscuits made from scratch in under an hour!

[TAG146] Birthday Cake Cinnamon Rolls (Funfetti)Make someone's birthday wishes come true by waking them up with these extra soft & sprinkle-loaded birthday cake

[TAG147] This homemade Pumpkin Soup is perfect for colder fall weather! Warm-up with a bowl of this creamy, savory soup!

[TAG148] Skip the sour cream—this cilantro lime crema is the BEST way to add a burst of tangy flavor to tacos, burritos, nachos, and more. I love it because it’s more

[TAG149] Borscht is a traditional homemade soup. It's made with fresh ingredients like cabbage and beets, and is garnished with sour cream and dill!  This easy and

[TAG150] Apple Cobbler, homemade, and completely from scratch! Made with tart apples and a buttery sweet biscuit-like topping, this is a simple and delicious cobbler.

[TAG151] From comfort foods to indulgent dishes browse hundreds of recipes that your family will love and make over and over again. Cooking Classy has never been easier,

[TAG152] This peanut curry lentil soup recipe is full of feel-good ingredients and features the coziest blend of sweet, savory, spicy flavors. September soup season has

[TAG153] Pumpkin Bread is an easy and delicious homemade quick bread perfect for fall! Made with pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and pecans it brings together all the

[TAG154] This CrockPot Chicken and Potatoes recipe is so easy to make! Chicken, potatoes and carrots slow cooked in a flavorful broth, served warm with a fresh bun or

[TAG155] This eggplant lasagna recipe is perfect for this time of year. Summer produce is still abundant, but the temps are starting to cool off. After months of

[TAG156] Skillet Apple Cider Chicken (Quick & Easy)This ultra-flavorful apple cider chicken is made in just 1 skillet. It's an easy dinner recipe you'll want to make on

[TAG157] Homemade beefaroni is a hearty, savory one-skillet meal that takes only minutes to prep and is ready in under an hour. Serve with a fresh crisp salad for a

[TAG158] Quinoa bowl recipes are some of my favorite easy meals to toss together for a healthy lunch or weeknight dinner. I love them because They’re customizable.

[TAG159] Chicken and Rice in the Crockpot is the perfect weeknight meal! This one-pot dish means easy dinner and easy clean-up. Plus leftovers are great for lunches the

[TAG160] This easy beef stroganoff recipe is one of the best homemade meals for a busy weeknight! It's filling, economical, and makes for great leftovers!

[TAG161] This hearty lentil bolognese recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan and simmered with the most delicious bold and savory flavors. On those days when you’re

[TAG162] This garlic yogurt sauce is the simplest sauce you’ll ever make. In fact, it’s so simple that I wondered if I should even share it. Does a 5-ingredient,

[TAG163] Here Are the Best Apples for BakingLearn which apple varieties are the very best for baking, and why their texture, flavor, and level of sweetness matters.

[TAG164] Our Cooking Club is a fun way to celebrate the Love & Lemons community of readers. The concept is super simple—each month, I choose a recipe. You make it,

[TAG165] A family food blog with hundreds of simple, tested and approved recipes. Find easy step-by-step photo cooking instructions and video recipes.

[TAG166] Jalapeño Cheddar Soft PretzelsA spicy twist on a twisted classic, these jalapeño cheddar soft pretzels start with my easy homemade pretzel dough. Add a little

[TAG167] This corn pasta recipe is late summer in a bowl. Just like the season, it feels transitional. While it’s bursting with fresh, summery produce like sweet corn

[TAG168] Why aren’t we all making grilled carrots more often? That’s what I asked myself after I tried this grilled carrots recipe for the first time. Because friends,

[TAG169] 30+ Healthy Breakfast RecipesStart the day on a nutritious note with one of these healthy breakfast recipes. Ingredients like whole wheat flour, oats, fruit,

[TAG170] If you’re not making chimichurri at home, you absolutely should be! This Argentinian green sauce is fresh and tangy, and you can mix it up in under 10

[TAG171] Donut Frostings (Strawberry, Vanilla, & Chocolate)Whether you're frying up some classic glazed doughnuts or baking some cake-style doughnuts in a doughnut pan,

[TAG172] How to Make Homemade Glazed DoughnutsMaking homemade glazed doughnuts is easier than you think. Ready in about 2 hours, these taste like doughnuts from your

[TAG173] This whipped ricotta dip will be my go-to appetizer for the rest of the summer…and fall…and winter. It feels elevated, but it couldn’t be simpler to make.

[TAG174] This healthy seed crackers recipe is easy to make, packed with nutrients, and irresistibly delicious! With so many fun crackers on the market nowadays, I can

[TAG175] This tofu sandwich recipe doesn’t skimp on flavor. Smoky BBQ tofu plays off a tangy, nutty cabbage salad, which in turn contrasts with sour dill pickles,

[TAG176] 30+ Back-to-School RecipesWelcome to the tastiest back-to-school season yet! I've gathered 30+ family-friendly back-to-school recipes. From baked oatmeal for

[TAG177] Healthy Blueberry Banana MuffinsThese healthy blueberry banana muffins taste wonderfully wholesome and soft, and are quick and easy to make without a mixer.

[TAG178] Of all the vegetable recipes I post, eggplant recipes are the most divisive. Early on, this surprised me, because eggplant recipes have always been some of

[TAG179] find out hundres of delicous food recipes

[TAG180] This eggplant salad recipe is what you should make after a trip to the farmers market in late summer. It features some of the best produce of the season:

[TAG181] Easy to make with simple ingredients and SO fresh and delicious.

[TAG182] Breakfast Egg Muffins (Frittata Muffins)If it's healthy grab-and-go morning fuel you're after, try these easy breakfast egg muffins. As delicious as a frittata

[TAG183] In my opinion, every home cook needs certain kitchen essentials. These basics make cooking easier, more efficient, and—best of all—more enjoyable. With the

[TAG184] It’s blackberry season—let’s make blackberry crisp! Our kiddo loves fresh fruit, so I’ve been getting all kinds at the farmers market this summer. Peaches,

[TAG185] Do you have an opinion about corn pizza? Love it? Hate it? Never tried it? I’m firmly in the “love it” camp, and I’m sharing my favorite corn pizza recipe in

[TAG186] Fresh tomato recipes go on repeat in our house every summer. In the dead of winter, there’s nothing I crave more than a summer tomato—sweet, juicy, and ripe.

[TAG187] Raspberry Swirl Sweet RollsIn this recipe, buttery dough spirals around a juicy, sweet-tart raspberry filling made from frozen raspberries. You can make the

[TAG188] This bruschetta-inspired pasta is tossed with fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, onions, balsamic and finished with a sprinkling of crispy garlicky breadcrumbs.

[TAG189] 40 Gluten Free Dessert Recipes Everyone LovesSave this list as your go-to resource whenever you need a gluten free dessert recipe idea. From easy flourless

[TAG190] Flourless Peanut Butter Oatmeal CookiesWhen looking at the ingredients (only 9!) for these flourless peanut butter oatmeal cookies, you'll find the glaring

[TAG191] What Baking Means to YouHi bakers! I'm sharing a different kind of post today. It's not a recipe, not a baking article, and it's not an update on life. It's a

[TAG192] Lemony orzo and chickpeas are simmered in a lightly-spiced broth and tossed with spinach. A new favorite 1-pan, 10-ingredient, 30-minute meal here in our house.

[TAG193] The food blog with mostly healthy recipes made with real, whole foods inspiring more people to get into the kitchen and cook something good.

[TAG194] Fresh watermelon and cucumber are tossed with lemon and mint and served over a bed of silky whipped feta. For all of you fellow watermelon feta salad lovers

[TAG195] Zesty cauliflower steaks are served over hummus and sprinkled with a lemony pine nut gremolata. One of those low-effort, high-reward recipes you are going to

[TAG196] This grilled ginger lime pork tenderloin recipe is incredibly easy to make and bursting with rich, savory flavor. Today we’re throwing back to one of the very

[TAG197] This easy summer dessert recipe can be made in less than 20 minutes and is the perfect way to celebrate when fresh peaches are in season. Warm and juicy

[TAG198] This mango lentil salad recipe comes together easily in less than 30 minutes and is bursting with fresh and vibrant ingredients. New favorite lentil salad

[TAG199] This vibrant green salad is loaded up with chickpeas, dates, avocado, loads of fresh mint, and tossed with a lemony za’atar shallot vinaigrette. I’m officially

[TAG200] These spicy garlic chili oil noodles are quick and easy to make and tossed with the yummiest garlic ginger chili oil. Feel free to toss with shrimp or your

[TAG201] This roasted vegetable enchiladas recipe is easy to customize with your choice of veggies and baked to delicious cheesy perfection. One of our family’s

[TAG202] My go-to classic potato salad recipe is easy to make, perfectly zesty and creamy, and always a crowd fave! I’m returning to my Midwestern roots today to pay

[TAG203] These crumbled falafel bowls are easy to make with crispy “falafel” crumbles, your choice of rice or greens, and lots of fun toppings! My new favorite

[TAG204] This homemade tahini sauce recipe is quick and easy to make with 5 ingredients and tastes amazing with everything from falafel to roasted veggies, grilled

[TAG205] This homemade tahini recipe is easy to make with 3 ingredients and tastes so deliciously nutty and creamy. Ever tried making homemade tahini? ♡ This beloved

[TAG206] A food blog with hundreds of quick and easy dinner recipes. Classics done right, incredible one pot recipes, Asian takeout at home and holiday feasting!