July 30, 2022

North African Freekeh

Ancient grains are trending, so you have probably heard of the roasted young (green) wheat called freekeh (pronounced free-kuh). This grain and the dishes made with it are from North Africa. In this recipe, I’ve combined it with savory garlic, fresh lemon, mint, sweet dates and nourishing chopped kale for a well-rounded side-dish full of flavor. Freekeh can be found in Whole Foods and other health-food stores or online. Benefits: Freekeh is packed with fiber and protein, so it will keep you full and satiated for hours. It also has vitamin B for energy, heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, and manganese […]
July 19, 2022

Oatmeal-Date Cookies

I love classic American oatmeal cookies, and Moroccan elements like dates and cardamom make them more interesting and healthier. These treats require less butter and sugar than regular recipes because of the natural sweetness dates provide. This recipe, found in my latest cookbook Anti-Aging Dishes from Around the World, uses whole-wheat flour in addition to all-purpose for a boost of fiber and nutrients while maintaining a soft texture. Benefits: Dates are full of detoxifying fiber and also offer B vitamins for building blood cells, potassium for strong bones, and iron for healthy red blood cells. Adding oats to your cookies […]
August 1, 2021

FoodTrients Energy Bars

You can easily make your own granola bars with your most favorite ingredients in the comfort of your home. These simple bars are sweet from dates and offer plenty of texture and crunch, not to mention heart-healthy omega-3s, from a variety of nuts. Be sure to use the variety you enjoy the most! Almond butter helps the mixture stick together while coconut flakes add depth of flavor and more texture to the mixture. These are perfect before or after workouts or for a snack at school or work. Feel free to roll these into balls instead of bars if desired. […]
May 24, 2021

Moroccan Brownie Bites

You won’t believe these brownie bites are completely raw, vegan, and fruit-based! This recipe blends Medjool dates from Morocco with walnuts and cocoa powder to create a rich, chocolate treat that’s perfect for a special occasion, party, or holiday. Roll these bites in nuts or other toppings if you do not care for coconut—the possibilities are endless. Benefits: Dates contain fiber, which lowers blood cholesterol, and potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and is an important electrolyte. Walnuts contain fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin E, which supports healthy brain function. Cocoa is full of catechins that can […]