SUPERFOODS THAT WORK BETTER TOGETHER
Tomatoes + olive oil
You already know that olive oil is a heart-healthy fat shown to boost “good” HDL cholesterol and lower “bad” LDL cholesterol that can clog your arteries. (considering the Extra Virgin Olive Oil is high polyphenol and fresh) When paired with tomatoes, though, it has even more superpowers. A 2000 study in Free Radical Biology and Medicine had people consume tomato products with extra-virgin olive oil or sunflower oil. Researchers found that olive oil raised the antioxidant activity of the lycopene in tomatoes, while no effect was seen with the sunflower oil.
Brussels sprouts + olive oil
These mini-cabbages pack several key nutrients, including vitamin K. “It regulates blood clotting in our bodies and it also may be helpful for bone health,” says Keri Gans, RD, author of The Small Change Diet: 10 Steps to a Thinner and Healthier You ($8; amazon.com). Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning its best absorbed in a meal that contains fat. That’s where the olive oil (when high quality ) comes in. It mostly contains monounsaturated fats, which are thought to help lower your risk of heart disease. Prep these two by lightly sautéing the veggies in olive oil, Gans says. You’ll boost your intake of vitamin K and keep your heart happy too. Try this simple recipe the next time you are in the mood for this power duo.
The healthy fat in extra-virgin olive oil helps you better absorb the vitamins in your greens. So skip the fat-free dressing. Try this simple and polyphenol packed balsamic.
When using a few high quality ingredients, you can cook simply and actually bring out more flavors in simple foods. Let Extra Virgin Olive Oils be your catalyst for decadent delights and healthy nights!
#synergy