Keep it Simple

LOL....I have to laugh at myself for this.
Though it was my intent to publish this post when it was penned on May 23rd, I somehow managed to forget to do so.
I do apologize to those of you following.
The bonus however, is that this week you will have 2 postings for your viewing pleasure.
Please enjoy!

The question I get asked most frequently is, 

“How do I get my food to taste so good?”

This question is most puzzling to me.  I am confused that it is not understood that if you can season meat and potatoes, you can season anything.

The key to great food is keeping things fresh and letting the natural flavors shine through and of course making everything you cook with LOVE.

Food that comes from the HEART feeds the SOUL.

Many times the most simple seasoning brings out the most amazing flavor.  For example, you can make the most perfectly flavored rice by simply toasting it prior to cooking.

This will give you a rich, nutty, buttery flavor without all the added fats.

Instructions for Perfect Rice to follow with instructions to turn it into the tastiest Spinach Rice ever.

It is a must that you always keep certain products on hand for cooking.  Keeping these items on hand will insure that you have a taste satisfying dish every time.

Following are My must have, pantry/fridge ingredients specifically for seasoning:

Sea Salt (various colors and grinds), Peppercorns (various kinds), Ground Black Pepper, Crushed Red Pepper Flakes, Granulated  Garlic, Fresh Garlic, Onions, Italian Seasoning, Fresh Thyme, Paprika, Fresh Italian Parsley, Lemon, Ginger, Olive Oil, Avocado Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar.

By keeping these simple ingredients on hand, you can impart flavor to anything.

Nourishment is a necessity but we should enjoy what we eat and it shouldn't be complicated.

Try this simple and tasty recipe and don't forget to let me know how you liked it.  Thanks for taking the ride to Whole Living with me.  Hope you'll continue the journey.

Until next time.

Blessings, Love and Light,

Carla Veggie Chef Figáro

Perfect Rice Ingredients

1 cup rice

2 cup water – 2 tblsp

¼ - ½ tsp salt (depending on your taste)

1 tblsp extra virgin olive oil

Place a deep skillet or sauté pan on stove on high heat.  Add olive oil and salt.

When oil is hot turn heat to medium and add rice.

Sauté rice until brown.

Add water ½ cup at a time.

Bring to boil, reduce heat to simmer and cover.

Simmer until all water is gone (17 – 20 min)

DO NOT REMOVE LID DURING THIS TIME.

Once all water is evaporated remove lid and place rice in a dish for serving.

Spinach Rice ingredients

1 tblsp extra virgin olive oil

1 recipe Perfect Rice (above)

1/8 tsp crushed red pepper

1/8 - ¼ cup vegetable broth

1 cup freshly chopped Spinach

1 half medium onion diced

¼ cup parmesan cheese (more for garnish)

1 – 2 garlic cloves (mashed into paste with blade edge of knife)

Place a deep skillet or sauté pan on stove on med/high  heat.

Add onion and sauté until slightly browned.

Add crushed red pepper and garlic and sauté 1 min.

Add spinach and sauté til wilted.

Stir in rice and vegetable broth until combined.

Stir in parmesan until just melted.

Remove from heat.

Garnish with parmesan for serving.