February 2008 Newsletter: My Heart-Healthy Valentine’s Day

When I was growing up, Valentine’s day wasn’t just about chocolate. Granny always made her own treats, handmade goodies that had nothing to do with candy.

One Valentine’s, she created a basket full of hand-sewn pin cushions in the shape of a heart stuffed with fragrant rose and lavender potpourri. But now that I’m older, I always think of giving food this time of year.

Why not make your sweetheart a special meal that is not only tasty, but heart healthy too? Start out with with a bright red appetizer, cherry peppers stuffed with mozzarella and basil served with a glass of chilled champagne or Prosecco. Salmon with orange balsamic glaze or spicy sausage and spinach lasagna paired with a chilled glass of white wine makes a sweet main course. Finish off with a heart-healthy dessert like my sweet heart cupcakes or serve them with fruit and coffee for breakfast in bed or a late brunch.

Healthy Brunch Ideas: February 2008 In Style Magazine

Florida’s super fruit, grapefruit, can add some serious sparks to your Valentine’s Day.

That’s because this citrus star is full of antioxidants that let your heart stay strong and give your skin that special glow. Plus, at only 90 calories a cup and with zero fat, Florida grapefruit juice can help you maintain a healthy weight.

Read my article in the February 2008 In Style Magazine.

Prevent Colds and Slim Down – Stay Hydrated!

As the indoors heat up, keep your body at its peak by ensuring you are properly hydrated. Watch my video with recipes that replenish your body and help you to fuel up. Hydration and hunger may not be something you think of in tandem, but you should. Eating meals with high water content allows you to feel full faster – a healthier formula for weight loss than the typical diet of deprivation.

Fighting a winter cold or want to prevent one? Staying hydrated may be the key to keeping the winter sniffles at bay. Does Vitamin C really help to prevent colds? Visit the SkinnyChef blog and read the entry on Cold Prevention to find out.

How Sweet is Your Love Recipe Contest

This February, in honor of National Grapefruit Month and Valentine’s Day, we’re asking grapefruit enthusiasts to submit a grapefruit recipe they love. It can be an appetizer, entrée, dessert or beverage, but must include either one half of a grapefruit or 8-ounces f grapefruit juice. The winner will earn a trip for two to Florida to cook with me, visit a grapefruit grove and shop for fresh grapefruit.