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LUCA MOVIE🛵 – DISNEY and Chef Eric

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Had a great time with Amanda @meowmeix, preparing delicious pasta along with @BlueApron and @PixarLuca for the upcoming movie LUCA.

What an awesome way to start the summer – Go on an unforgettable ride with #PixarLuca, streaming on @DisneyPlus June 18.

Can’t wait for all the kids in our summer cooking camps to watch Luca and cook with BlueApron! Happy viewing and Bon Appetit!

#Disney+ #LetsBlueApron #PixarLuca

About the Picture In the Header:

Pixar’s artists embarked on research trips to the Italian Riviera to prepare the setting of the film (Vernazza pictured).

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Quick And Easy Good Eating Habits

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We hope you enjoy our Summer-Ready Decorating Ideas post. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated! Check out our YOUTUBE Channel for summer recipes Chef Eric’s YouTube Channel.

 

Choosing the foods we eat and taking care of the time we dedicate to each of our meals, without interfering in our daily work and responsibilities is a must. Being as productive and as healthy as possible is the key to having a balanced lifestyle.

Eating three meals a day helps keep energy levels up and hunger at bay, according to (livestrong.com). Chef Eric and his team compiled the main benefits of having a healthy breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. We also added quick recipes that will be a good option in our day to day, giving us all the energy, nutrients, and water we need.

As main advice, Chef Eric recommends that we should consume our 3 main meals in a 12-hour range. For instance, if we eat our breakfast at 7:00 am, our dinner should be at 7:00 pm. Let’s take a look at some QUICK AND EASY GOOD EATING HABITS!

1. BREAKFAST:

The importance of a healthy breakfast every day is because it helps to maintain nutritional balance throughout the day. Since it is the first meal we eat after a period of 10 to 12 hours of fasting, it is important that breakfast is away from processed foods. Choose real foods instead! Shakes are a magnificent option since almost immediately they conjugate all the nutrients and vitamins necessary to start the day right. You can combine different fruits and veggies, according to the purpose of your diet. Shakes can detoxify, nourish, and feed the body with the right amounts of healthy foods.

The most important benefits of a healthy breakfast are:

– Improves physical performance, the lack of breakfast causes fatigue and loss of energy
– Covers the needs of vitamins and minerals
– Controls body weight as it helps to keep our metabolism active, avoiding the accumulation of fat
– Increases productivity at work and there is greater mental clarity
– Reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes
– Reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases
– Prevents the risk of obesity and overweight problems
– Improves concentration and behavior
– Maintains good growth and development
– Contributes to maintaining health and well-being
– Helps to preserve muscle mass, when we age we tend to lose muscle mass, which leads to bone and joint complications, hence the importance of supplementing with physical activity.

Lastly, the myth that skipping breakfast helps you lose weight faster, it’s FALSE!

Bonus Recipe # 1:

Banana, Mango, and Vegetable Smoothie: 2 Servings

Ingredients:

For the base:
• 80 g of kale or baby spinach
• 1 mango
• 2 bananas
• 2 tablespoons of hemp seeds
• Mint leaves
• Basil leaves
• 1 small handful of alfalfa sprouts
• Water

For the topping:
• 1 tablespoon of hemp seeds
• Sliced ​​mango
• Banana cut into slices

Method:
• Blend the base ingredients
• Serve in a bowl
• Add the toppings so that it is pleasing to the eye

2. LUNCH:

Lunch provides the energy that the body needs to face any activity. In the afternoon, having lunch reinforces a good dose of nutrients to your body and many more benefits that we will mention below:

– Nutritious and balanced lunch options should have 7% vegetables, 15% protein, and 15% carbohydrate
– Each ingredient that we use in our plate must benefit our organism
– Drinking water before eating lunch helps to have good digestion
– To accompany lunch, drink water or tea! Avoid dairy and sugary drinks
– You can eat whole grains or cereals, and avoid refined grains such as white rice and white bread
– Try to choose fish, poultry, legumes and nuts. Limit red meat and processed meats!
– Variety of colors in vegetables: Reds reduce the risk of cancer (tomatoes, peppers, radishes, watermelon, apple), orange and yellow strengthen the immune system (carrot, pumpkin, pineapple, peach), greens are detoxifying, help the immune and bone system (lettuce, artichoke , broccoli, spinach), and white ones, lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and prevent diabetes (onion, garlic, cauliflower, mushrooms)
– For preparations and supplements, healthy oils such as canola, and olive oil should be used. Do not use margarines or trans fats
– Having ketogenic or “ketos” lunches as an alternative, helps us burn fat

Bonus Recipe # 2:

Grilled Swordfish with Herb Butter Yield: 4 Servings

Ingredients:

• Swordfish or other meaty fish, cut into 2 pounds 1 to 1 ½ inch steaks
• Olive oil 1/4 cup
• Lemon, zested and juiced 1 each

Herb Butter
• Unsalted butter, room temperature 1/2 c / 1 stick
• Mixed herbs, chopped 1/2 cup
• (Parsley, dill, chives, tarragon, chervil, thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:
• Brush the fish with the olive oil and lemon juice. Let stand at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
• In a bowl, combine the ingredients for the butter and mix thoroughly. Season to taste with salt and pepper and set aside.
• Prepare a grill pan on medium heat.
• Spray the grill pan with oil and grill the fish for 7 to 10 minutes, turning once.
• Remove the fish from the grill and place on a heated serving platter. Brush with the softened herb butter and garnish with the lemon zest

3. DINNER:

A healthy dinner is one that is easily digestible and helps to have a good night’s rest. It is important to keep the following in mind and achieve a perfect end of day:

– Going to bed lighter after a healthy dinner can be the solution against insomnia
– The digestive process is relieved as it helps to repair any problems caused by heavy and abundant meals
– Eating a light dinner is a healthy habit that allows you to wake up earlier the next day and with more energy
– Improves general health and mood
– Eating lighter is the key to living longer and staying fit
– When you have a light dinner during the summer, it helps to keep your body temperature stable
– Try to eat dinner at least two hours before going to sleep
– Light cooking methods such as boiling, baking, and steaming are the most recommended in the evening hours
– Very heavy recipes with high fat content should be avoided. Dinners should contain in very moderate measures foods rich in Omega 3 or healthy fats
– You should only have dinner if you feel hungry

Bonus Recipe # 3:

Grilled Vegetable Ratatouille:

Ingredients:

• Olive Oil ¼ cup
• Garlic cloves, minced 4 medium cloves
• Thyme, chopped fine 1 t & sprigs for garnish
• Parsley, chopped fine 1 Tablespoon
• Rosemary, chopped fine 1 teaspoon
• Red Onion 1 large
• Basil, chiffonade 2t & sprig for garnish
• Zucchini, large 1 each
• Eggplant, large 1 eggplant
• Yellow squash, large 1 each
• Red Bell Pepper, roasted, peeled & chopped 1 pepper
• Tomatoes, roasted, peeled and chopped 2 tomatoes

Method:
• Heat a Grill Pan over medium heat. Combine the oil in a small bowl with garlic, thyme and rosemary. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Set the bowl aside.
• Trim the zucchini and eggplant. Peel the eggplant, and slice the eggplant and zucchini into ½ inch thick rounds. Peel and cut the onions into ½ inch slices. Brush the vegetables with the garlic herb oil.
• Place the vegetables on the hot grill pan. You may have to grill in batches. Grill, turning the onions several times but the other vegetables once, until dark grill marks appear.
• Continue grilling until the vegetables are cooked through. While grilling, spread the chopped tomatoes on a platter. Place the finished vegetables on the platter on top of the tomatoes. Garnish with fresh herb sprigs and roasted pepper.

Prepare healthy and balanced recipes for your everyday menu. You will begin to see improvements in your body in no time! If you eat a healthy dinner, and prepare light, and rich dishes for the whole family – your children will get used to eating healthy from a young age. Take advantage of these QUICK AND EASY GOOD EATING HABITS! Make sure to include the little ones in the cooking process so they learn how easy and fun it is to eat healthy.

Chef Eric recommends healthy snacks if you feel a bit hungry between meals. You can incorporate walnuts, almonds, or peanuts in moderate portions. Fruits are also a good alternative for a healthy snack!

For additional fun, quick, and delicious recipes – don’t forget to subscribe to Chef Eric’s YouTube channel! Chef Eric’s YouTube Channel.

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Benefits of cooking with Kids

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TOP 7 Reasons to Teach your Kids How to Cook!

We hope that you enjoy reading this blog – Benefits of cooking with kids! Subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated! Check out our YOUTUBE Channel for more ideas Chef Eric’s YouTube Channel and check out for more information on our LIVE SUMMER KIDS CAMPS with Safety Protocols in place.

BENEFITS OF COOKING WITH KIDS:

TOP 7 Reasons to Teach your Kids How to Cook!

For children, living fun and entertaining experiences are the basis of their physical and emotional development. Let’s discover the surprising benefits of cooking with Kids!

Activities related to cooking are the perfect resource for kids to learn to develop different skills in a didactic way. It is time to take advantage of the time spent at home and start to teach your children something new and exciting! Cooking will help them in the future and bring amazing benefits in the present. Chef Eric shares the benefits of cooking with kids. This blog is based on his vast experience teaching cooking courses to the little ones:

1. Creative Mind:

Whenever the human being learns something new, the brain creates new ways to put what has been learned into practice. This shows the importance of constantly stimulating the mind – It is time for your children to practice different activities! Cooking awakens their senses; making them explore fields they have never seen before, or have previously ignored. Children learn and experiment to understand the connections and harmonies in the kitchen. Cooking will help them to become more creative – Take advantage of this activity to let your children’s imagination fly!

2. Motor Skills Development:

Fine motor skill is the coordination of movements of small muscles in coordination with the eyes. For this reason, we carry out activities to strengthen our motor skills since kindergarten. These are very important for the development of cognitive areas and language. Cooking is an ideal activity to develop these kinds of skills. Cutting-washing vegetables, peeling foods, eating fruits, learning to use kitchen implements such as knives, and learning different culinary techniques are some of the processes that contribute to motor skills development. Experimenting with various textures, flavors, and shapes is also great for human development!

3. Mathematical Ability:

Children involved in the culinary arts are exposed to mathematical and chemical concepts in a didactic way, even without realizing it! Weight, quantities, and fractions are essential when preparing food. Chemical concepts are also part of the cooking experiment; everything that can happen with the different ingredients when mixed in their different states!

4. Autonomy:

As children learn and practice cooking, they adopt independence in each of the processes that cooking involves. It is important that they are supervised by a responsible adult or a professional to guide them, and prevent any accidents in the kitchen. Afterward, with experience, and practice, the child will have the autonomy of cooking, thus giving him security and self-confidence!

5. Learning about Healthy Food:

By involving or inspiring children to learn about each of the ingredients and foods, they will surely want to know where these come from and what they are made of. This knowledge will allow them to identify which foods are healthy and which are not! This concept also encourages them to cook the food. As we know, cooking at home can be much healthier than eating at most restaurants.

6. Teamwork:

Cooperating from an early age will help kids to socialize and work with others! Cooking classes generate great interaction between kids, achieving successful teamwork. For children, cooking becomes a great team activity!

7. Reinforcement of Emotional Intelligence:

Emotional intelligence is the ability to express, understand, manage, and perceive emotions. This type of intelligence achieves behaving in an appropriate way socially.

As mentioned above, culinary arts awaken the senses that reinforce, and activate emotional intelligence. During the preparation of a recipe, conversations must be held – kids learn to listen and reason! Additionally, the cuisine world is wonderful and diverse. The little ones enjoy learning about other cultures, flavors, and textures!

We hope that you have enjoyed reading this blog – Benefits of cooking with kids!

Our Kids Cooking Camps are coming up this summer with safety protocols in place! Don’t miss the opportunity to have your kids join us in this amazing experience! Registration is open. Click on the link to see details: https://culinaryclassroom.com/kids-summer-programs/ and Check out our YOUTUBE Channel for more ideas! Subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated.

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Mother’s Day Ideas

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SURPRISING MOM ON HER DAY

Chef Eric wishes all the moms out there a Happy Mother’s Day! We hope you enjoy our Mother’s Day Ideas. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated! AND check out our YOUTUBE Channel for more ideas Chef Eric’s YouTube Channel.

Let us tell you some history about one of the most special and commemorative days of the year – Mother’s Day Celebration. We also added some Mother’s Day Ideas to make mom feel super special on her day!

A little History…

The origin of the celebration dates back to 1865 in the United States. Activist and poet of the time, Julia Ward Howe, proposed to establish a special day as a way to reconcile the parties involved in the Civil War. This proposal was made through religious celebrations and peaceful demonstrations; where mothers of families who were victims of the war marched in Boston. Due to Julia’s success, activist Ann Jarvis from Virginia, began to organize mothers’ meetings to exchange different issues. These meetings were held for many more years! On May 12, 1905, Ann Jarvis passed away, and her daughter, also named Ann Jarvis, commemorated her every year by organizing a Mother’s Day celebration every second Sunday in May. From 1907, Jarvis started a campaign to make this date official. Based on Howe’s demand, the petition was spread throughout the country, and different personalities supported the cause. President Woodrow Wilson signed the official recognition of Mother’s Day in 1914. YAYYYY!

There are many reasons why we must thank mom on her special day. Let’s not forget any detail so that she can spend a day full of unforgettable moments. Below are Chef Eric’s Mother’s Day Ideas for an Unforgettable Celebration. Let’s do this!

1. Breakfast in Bed:

First surprise of the day, spoil her with her favorite breakfast in bed! Make sure you are aware of her morning favorites…Get a little creative and add a flower to the plate. There’s nothing better than waking up to the smell of coffee, eggs, toast and pancakes. If you can’t make it to breakfast, you can surprise her at lunch, or dinner with her favorite meal!

Check our Chef Eric’s YouTube Channel for cooking inspiration and delicious recipes!

2. Involving the Little Ones:

This important day gives the little ones the opportunity to use their imagination. Encourage them to prepare a surprise gift for mom!
Arts and crafts activities encourage creativity in children while they surprise mom – It doesn’t get better than this! The gift might not necessarily be the most elaborate or perfect but the result will always be the greatest. A mother’s or grandmother’s heart full of tenderness, love, and a big smile!

Here’s an original craft idea:

CLOTH BAG: Mothers can use this bag to go to the supermarket, avoid using plastic bags, and contribute to the environment, all at the same time. This is a great, unique, and exclusive gift! Let your kid’s imagination run wild and create a work of art on the surface of the bag:

Materials:

  • Basic Cotton Bag
  • Brushes
  • Drawing Tools & Painting Supplies: Choose from Oil Pastels, Several types of Paint,
    Tempera, and other drawing tools to help you create the perfect masterpiece!
  • Template of a special drawing (or you can make a freehand drawing)
  • Colored buttons, needles, and threads

Now that you have all the materials – It’s time to GET TO WORK…Another way to involve children is to invite them to participate in the preparation of breakfast (under adult supervision). There are great benefits of learning to cook as a child that contributes to human development. To learn more on this topic, click on Cooking with Kids post. 

3. Online Shopping:

There are two things to keep in mind at this point. First, take into account the world situation and stay away from crowded places, such as shopping centers. Second, many times giving mom the opportunity to choose the right gift fulfills her desires and avoids that this gift remains kept in the trunk of memories. So Gift Certificates to her favorite store are a great option!

Choose to shop online! It is easy, practical, and safe. Keep your options open, maybe gift her an experience!

Shop here for Chef Eric’s favorite equipment, cookware, gadgets and tools:  https://www.amazon.com/shop/chefericsculinaryclassroom.

4. Spa at Home:

Moms have always been multitaskers and often forget to pamper themselves. This is the perfect day to stay away from worries and stress – what about a good SPA hour at home?

First, adapt a space with very dim light or candlelights, a humidifier with lavender scent, and relaxing background music. You have two options depending on your budget: one hire a professional masseuse for the perfect massage. Two, recreate a spa scene and start with a facial mask, you can find many natural options online, or use a charcoal mask that you can easily find in any beauty store.

5. Movie Night and Popcorn:

There are plenty of Mother’s Day Movies on Netflix. To end this special day, you can choose the perfect mother’s day movie. Don’t forget to make popcorn and snacks of her liking to accompany the movie. This amazing activity can be done with the whole family! Here are some great options:

  1. Step Mom
  2. The Life Ahead
  3. Dumplin’
  4. Joy
  5. Room
  6. Wonder
  7. Instant Family
  8. Mamma Mia!
  9. Mother’s Day

Being a mother is one of the toughest jobs on earth. Show mom how much you appreciate all that she does every day. Give her a day full of surprises as a form of gratitude for her infinite love, dedication, and generosity. Every day should be Mother’s Day!

We hope you enjoyed our Mother’s Day Ideas, subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated.  Check out our YOUTUBE Channel for more ideas Chef Eric’s YouTube Channel and check out our website to learn more about our culinary programs.

Chef Eric wishes all the moms out there a Happy Mother’s Day!

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Amazing Easter Ideas

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Make the most of your Easter celebration with our list of the most Amazing Easter Ideas for kids and adults! Over time the Easter celebration has changed. In the beginning, families met on this special date to share a lamb dinner. Today, in the United States, Easter is a traditional date to share with family, and carry out different activities. Chef Eric shares his Amazing Easter Ideas for an Easter Celebration full of flavors, colors, and plenty of fun at home. 

 

1. Plan Ahead!

To have a successful Easter celebration and ease your worries; you should make a checklist for the materials and ingredients needed for the celebration. This should be done a few days before the celebration. Go shopping for the decorations and activities that you will carry out that day. Don’t forget your ingredients to share a delicious recipe with your loved ones! 

 

2. Decoration

We are very close to Easter, and it is necessary that you have your home set for this celebration. Our Amazing Easter Ideas will help you achieve this task! Some simple and practical elements can give a spring air and a fresh look to your home. 

Easter has the prettiest colors! Purple, white, red, pink, green, gold, as well as pastel colors, should definitely be part of the decoration! Either on the furniture, or in the functional, and decorative objects that you use that day.

For the table, it is recommended to use a yellow or green tablecloth. You can add a table runner, an arrangement of flowers, napkins, and striking tableware. Use figures of rabbits and eggs to achieve more symbolism, you can even add a center arrangement with a basket of purple-painted eggs!

Add snacks that help to highlight the decoration of the table! Some cookies and chocolates in the shape of rabbits and eggs. On the healthier side, add carrots slices, with small broccoli flowers to make the effect of leaves. 

Apart from the table, add some decorative elements! A crown on the door of your house, some garlands on the stairs, and in the backyard! All maintaining the same spirit, and the figures of rabbits and eggs, with the festive tones of spring. 

 

3. Activities and Games

 

Custom Glasses

Materials:

  • Plastic Glasses
  • Cardboard or other types of paper
  • Colors or Crayons
  • Scissors
  • Straws
  • Tape or glue

 

This activity is suitable for children. Draw the shape of an egg or the face of a rabbit on a piece of paper, or cardboard of a size smaller than the glass. You can use printed templates as well! Color, paint, or fill with different materials of your choice, and cut out each part to stick it on the glass. You can make figures to cut out and stick on the straw as well. This fun activity can become the personalized drink glasses that the kids will use during the celebration.

 

Decorate Your Own Easter Egg

Materials:

  • Eggs
  • Tempera
  • Scissors
  • Tape or glue
  • Balloons
  • Papier-mâché

 

This is one of the oldest traditions for the Easter celebration. According to history, people painted,  decorated the eggs, and gave them to their loved ones!  First, you must empty the egg. Make the design you’d like on the eggshell. You must be very careful not to break it!  You can also use plastic eggs you get from the craft store. Another option is to inflate balloons, and use paper-mâché to line them in order to paint on them. It is an awesome option to make giant eggs!

 

Egg Racing

Materials:

  • Eggs
  • Spoons

 

The contestants of this game should have their own spoon that they will hold with their mouth and teeth. They will put the egg on it and start the race, without dropping the egg from the spoon. Whoever drops the egg loses! 

 

Easter Egg Toss

Materials:

  • Eggs

An egg is thrown between the players, the distance between them increases each time the egg is successfully captured. The distance makes it increasingly difficult to catch the egg, the idea is to catch it, and not drop or break it between hands. 

And DON’T forget the traditional Easter Egg Hunt! This is every child’s favorite part of the holiday!

 

4. Reflection

Beyond the celebration, games, and food – Remember that this is an important day to reflect on family. Make it memorable! Have a short speech ready before sharing the meal as a family. Wish your loved one love,  joy, health, and happiness! This will make your celebration even better!

For Easter recipes and other holiday recipes, visit our Youtube channel. Learn different techniques and dishes with Chef Eric. Chef Eric’s Culinary Classroom wishes you a Happy Easter!

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Lower Your Cholesterol

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FOODS AND HABITS THAT HELP LOWER BAD CHOLESTEROL

We all know that inadequate diets and bad habits can increase the probability of suffering from cardiovascular, heart, and other related diseases. If you are looking to Lower Your Cholesterol, you are at the right place! 

In recent years, there have been concerns about the trend of consuming saturated fats over other types of fats. According to recent studies, American adults obtain 11% of their calories from saturated fats. For this reason, Chef Eric decided to share his list of healthy habits and foods to help you lower your cholesterol levels. Cook well, eat well, and BE well – and live longer! 

HABITS:

Physical Exercise:

We all know that exercise is a must when talking about healthy habits. The 70/30 rule suggests that 70% is diet and the remaining 30% is physical activity. This rule helps to regulate body weight by helping to raise good HDL cholesterol and lower LDL cholesterol. Remember that being overweight increases triglycerides and therefore bad cholesterol. Aerobic-Type Exercises are recommended. Exercises such as walking, jogging, swimming, dancing, skiing, and pedaling are highly recommended for 30 minutes a day,  and 3-4  times a week. A great start is to walk your dog and lift some 5-pound weights!

Avoid Certain Foods:

Avoid the following foods in your daily menu. Saturated fats, sugars, cold cuts, excess alcoholic beverages, frozen juices, and precooked meals. These are pro-inflammatory products since they are ultra-processed foods often high in calories. 

Healthy Cooking:

Incorporate healthier cooking techniques and Lower Your Cholesterol! Try to have your foods baked, steamed or grilled. These are great options. Pay attention to your meals, and make sure they are well balanced. Check out Chef Eric’s online cooking video series. These classes can teach you recipes with different and healthy cooking techniques. 

Eat Your Veggies & Fruits:

Fruits and vegetables are a good source of vitamins and minerals; including folate, vitamin C, and potassium. They’re an excellent source of dietary fiber, which can help to maintain a healthy gut and prevent constipation and other digestion problems. My latest favorites are raw radishes and raspberries – but not together. I’ve even been known to drink vegetable juice and smoothies with lots of vegetables and vegetable powders – an easy way to incorporate vegetables with a little sweetness from fresh-frozen fruit.

The American Heart Association recommends four servings of fruit and five servings of vegetables per day. 

Vegetables have zero cholesterol, and also contain a component called sterol. This element intervenes in the intestine, decreasing the absorption of bad cholesterol.  According to MedlinePlus, one serving of fruit, or vegetables must be equivalent to the palm of your hand. Eating vegetables and fruits can reduce the risk of heart diseases, heart attacks, and strokes.  

Include Fiber and Antioxidants:

It is recommended to consume between 25 to 35 grams of soluble fiber daily. Soluble fiber is found in foods such as whole-grain products, vegetables, and some fruits – helping to reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the blood. Antioxidants such as vitamin C, carotenes (a component in yellow or orange fruits and vegetables), flavonoids (phytonutrients, plant chemicals such as tea), and lycopenes (a component in red fruits and vegetables) prevent cholesterol from oxidizing and hence plug the arteries. 

FOOD:

Here are Chef Eric’s top picks when it comes to the foods you should add to your daily diet:

Olive Oil:

Extra Virgin Olive Oil contains a large amount of sterols that help reduce LDL cholesterol and increase good cholesterol, without increasing triglycerides.

Egg Whites:

You can eat two egg whites with one yolk for breakfast. This option is rich in fatty acids that help increase good cholesterol.

Oatmeal:

This food contains a component that considerably reduces the level of bad LDL cholesterol, beta-glucan. Just 3 grams of uncooked oatmeal added to a natural smoothie does the job! 

Soy:

It contains phospholipids that act on the metabolism of fats. In addition to reducing bad cholesterol, it increases good cholesterol, reduces sugar levels, and regulates intestinal transit relieving constipation.

Blueberries:

They are antioxidants and contain Vitamin C. They reduce blood pressure and inflammation in general!

Apples:

This fruit contains flavonoids and antioxidants in its skin, which contributes to the reduction of cholesterol.

Artichoke:

The gallbladder needs cholesterol to function. By consuming artichoke, we are consuming a component called cynarin that makes the gallbladder work more than normal. For this reason, it burns more cholesterol, reducing it from our bloodstream.

Almonds, Walnuts, and Nuts:

Walnuts, almonds, and dried fruits such as Chia should be consumed daily. A maximum of 25 grams per day, due to their high caloric content. It is advisable to consume them raw. You can add them to yogurts, and salads! These also contain good fats, and omega 3 that reduce bad cholesterol, prevent clot formation and provide fiber. 

The combination of 20 grams of almonds with 1/4 of a cup of dark chocolate is scientifically recommended as a very heart-healthy snack. I love this snack!

 

Remember to always consult your doctor before starting a new diet or fitness program!

We hope you’ve enjoyed reading this blog as much as we’ve enjoyed writing it for you. Can’t wait to see you soon! Don’t forget to register for Chef Eric’s newsletter and check out his new cooking video series. You will learn many recipes and culinary techniques that will contribute to your physical and mental well-being. You also can visit his YouTube channel for many instructional videos. 

 

 

online chef

Learn to be a chef online: FAST AND HEALTHY FOOD!

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Now is the time to learn to be a chef online! Fast food has been an answer to our hunger needs in our daily eating routine for many years. This is due to our busy schedules, personal obligations, and family affairs, which leave us very little time to prepare a healthy meal.

The United States ranks first with the highest rate of obesity in the world, not a very encouraging figure that is affecting people of all ages. This is because many of us feel we don’t have the time and opt for non-healthy fast food options.

We should not define fast food as “bad” since there are several ways to make it a good, complete, healthy, and exquisite option for the palate. Let’s rethink Fast Food and opt for healthier choices!

Chef Eric will guide us with his advice on how to make fast food healthy and leave behind all types of myths.

1. Measure the Quantities:

Myth: “You need large portions to be fully satisfied.”

You actually DON’T need large portions to be fully satisfied. Measuring quantities at home is a great advantage because you have control of portioning foods, such as meats and carbohydrates in smaller sizes. Chef Eric’s advice, increase the portions of fruits and vegetables! You will be satisfied without feeling full and heavy. Also, use a Kitchen Food Scale – it is super easy and very precise!

2. Replace Unhealthy Ingredients with Healthy Ones:

Processed ingredients is what we currently get in supermarkets with compounds, like saturated fats that increase bad cholesterol, LDL. Additives and refined sugars are the most harmful and only provide additional calories. Chef Eric’s advice, replace these ingredients with fresher ones like legumes, fruits, and vegetables. These provide fiber, vitamins, minerals and other important components that will help you have a healthier body and mind. Olive Oil is a very good option for food preparation and it works amazing as a salad dressing. A great tip to flavor your meals is to use ingredients that aid digestion such as spices, garlic, and ginger.

3. Drink Water or Natural Drinks instead of Soda:

Up to 60% of the human adult body is water. We need water to survive! Choose the healthiest drink you can have – WATER! You can drink it as it is or add some fruits/juices to give it a twist with fresh flavors. This makes a fun and refreshing option with vitamins and minerals! Remember that good wine with moderate consumption can always complement your dishes. Chef Eric’s advice, try a natural tea that will help you improve digestion at the end of your meals!

4. Healthy Side Dishes:

There are several options to accompany the main dish. You can choose roasted or cooked foods that have lower fat content such as rice, corn, and steamed potatoes. Go with low-calorie dressings or olive oil for your salads. On the other hand, fruits can always compliment a good dish. Try some slices of grapefruit, green apple, orange or others of your preference. Blueberries and grapes with natural yogurt are a healthy option due to their antioxidant components. Learn new ways to make your side dishes -you can learn to be a chef online! Check out my NEW Video Cooking Series – from Knife Skills to full meals – includes instructions/recipes!

https://culinaryclassroom.com/online-cooking-classes/

5. Food Prepared at Home:

You already know that cooking at home will improve your diet and help you maintain good eating habits. Chef Eric has courses available for you to learn to be a chef online! It is not necessary to spend hours in the kitchen. Chef Eric advises you on some simple, delicious, and very healthy fast food dishes below:

 

Crab Meat and Rice Bowl (20 minutes)

Ingredients for 4 servings:

• Imitation Crab Meat – 100 grams/4 ounces

• Long Grain Rice – 400 grams/11 ounces/1 ½ cups

• Green Peas – 50 grams/2 ounces/1/4 cup

• Pitted Green Olives – 100 grams

• (1) Carrot, grated

• (1/2) Red bell pepper, sliced thinly

• Salt and Pepper to taste

• Olive Oil, 1 teaspoon

• Mineral Water – 800 milliliters (3 cups for the rice and 1 cup for the peas)

 

Method:

Rice: (Uses a pot)

In a medium pot, add water, and salt to taste and a little olive oil – bring to a boil.

Add rice, cover and simmer for 15 minutes, until it is completely dry. Remove from heat.

 

Peas: (Cooking parallel to rice)

In a pot boil 1 cup mineral water.

Add a pinch of salt and cook the peas for 10 minutes or until tender.

Drain.

Let it cool!

 

Add all ingredients to the bowl:

Cold Rice and Peas

Red Bell Peppers cut into juliennes or thin slices

Olives cut in half

Grated Carrot

Imitation Crab

Add Olive Oil and Ground Black Pepper to taste and ENJOY!

 

Chicken Bowl with Eggplant and Arugula Parmesan (20 minutes)

Ingredients for 4 servings:

• 4 Boneless, skinless Chicken Breasts

• 1 large Eggplant cut into thin slices

• 60 grams/2 ounces of Arugula/2 handfuls

• 50 grams/1/4 cup of Parmesan Cheese

• Grated Mozzarella Cheese/1/2 cup

• 1 cup of fresh Basil, chopped

• 1 small Red Onion, chopped finely

• 3 diced Tomatoes

• 2 Eggs

• 1 tablespoon of Red Wine Vinegar

• 4 tablespoons of Olive Oil

• 1 cup of Panko bread crumbs

 

Method: Need several bowls and 2 skillets

1.   Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the eggplant slices for 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Place the slices in a baking dish large enough to hold the chicken breasts.

2.   In a small bowl, add half a cup of basil, tomato, onion, add vinegar as well as 2 tablespoons of olive oil and stir together. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.

3.   Preheat the oven to 400° F.

4.   In a medium bowl, mix the parmesan with the panko bread crumbs and set aside.

5.   In a separate bowl, beat the 2 eggs with a tablespoon of water and set aside.

6.   Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Drip them in the egg, and then the Parmesan and panko mixture.

7.   Heat a tablespoon of oil in a medium skillet. Brown the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side. Remove the chicken and place on the eggplant slices in the baking dish.

8.   Add mozzarella to the top of the chicken breasts and bake for 5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

Mix the arugula with the tomato/onion mixture and serve on a plate with some of the chicken topped with more grated mozzarella. Garnish with the remaining basil!

We hope you enjoyed Chef Eric’s tips on Fast and Healthy Food as well as the recipes. Follow these tips, eat fast, and healthy. Visit our Youtube Channel and find lots of recipes to make at home. See you in the Kitchen!

Check out my NEW Video Cooking Series – Knife Skills to full meals/desserts – includes instructions/recipes!

Shop here for Chef Eric’s favorite equipment, cookware, gadgets and tools.

 

stvalentinewithcheferic

Cooking Lessons Online: TIPS FOR THE PERFECT DATE NIGHT AT HOME!

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VALENTINE’S DAY CELEBRATION!

Involving our Senses in a Practical and Romantic Dinner for Two!

Every night can turn into a date night, especially during this season. February is the month when we celebrate love.

Why are date nights necessary? Date nights foster communication, increase feelings of intimacy, decrease the chances of taking each other for granted, decrease stress, and build attachment.
With that said, we’ve come up with a list of date night ideas such as Cooking Lessons Online to spice things up during this season.

A little history…

Valentine’s Day is celebrated in several countries of the world, including The United States. Valentine’s Day began to be popularly celebrated around the 17th century.

By the middle of the 18th, it was common for friends and lovers of all social classes to exchange small tokens of affection or handwritten notes, and by 1900 printed cards began to replace written letters.

An estimated 145 million Valentine’s Day cards are sent each year according to the Greeting Card Association. This makes Valentine’s Day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year.

Chef Eric could not miss this important month to give you his advice for a practical and romantic date night or/and Valentine’s Day celebration at home. These 6 tips will awaken your positive emotions and your 5 senses.

1. Invitation:
Send a virtual invitation, even if you are celebrating from home. Find a virtual site such as https://www.paperlesspost.com and https://www.greetingsisland.com/invitations to create your card. Take the first step to awaken emotions in your partner, in this case, SURPRISE and HAPPINESS. This invitation must be consistent with the time of the date, pastel colors by day, and stronger colors if it is at night. The most important is to think about your common tastes, colors, and styles. We suggest that you add a phrase that identifies you as a couple, a verse from a poem, or a song that is part of your relationship’s history.

2. Cancel Plans:
You and your partner must be clear that during the date cellphones should be off. This time and activity should be dedicated to the two of you ONLY. If another activity or invitation interferes with the celebration, it is suggested that these plans get canceled right away. If there are children, look for the option of a babysitter or someone to take care of them. All the free time should be for an unforgettable date night or Valentine’s Day celebration. The emotion of LOVE will be part of tip #2. Why? Because you will be giving undivided attention and priority to your partner. This will make your soulmate feel special and appreciated.

3. Recreate a Good Environment:
This element is a must because it will remain in the memory forever. This tip will awaken the emotions of JOY and SURPRISE as well as your SIGHT and SMELL senses. You have different options, such as decorating the table either inside or in the garden of your house, with rose petals or flowers of your partner’s preference. We recommend red roses for an ultra-romantic and unforgettable setting. Use candles with aromas, such as cinnamon, lavender, or vanilla. The kitchenware should not be disposable, try cloth napkins instead of paper! This works better for a romantic time and at the same time it is planet-friendly. Another fun option is to recreate a picnic. You can choose to do it inside or outside in the garden. We recommend that you check the weather in advance, the cold can spoil your evening! Or use a heater and make a small campfire.

A strip of very dim warm light bulbs or a strip with special photos hanging is a great option to remember the special moments that you have lived as a couple. Don’t forget to dress to impress and wear a good perfume, you are also part of the environment!

4. Music:
Liven up the romantic setting with good music and low volume. This tip complements the previous one of recreating a good atmosphere. It is suggested to put together a playlist with songs that are part of your relationship’s history. A fun idea is to put the songs in chronological order to remember the first time that song or songs were part of the stages of your lives. You can also add songs to the list that are of your preference and that awaken your sense of HEARING. You can even go further, generating a CALM and FUN environment. Take advantage of this element to dedicate a new song to your partner or get a little romantic, and invite your partner to dance.

5. Quick and Easy Meal for Two:
This tip is one of the most important parts of the celebration. The idea is to spend a pleasant, calm, and, stress-free day. Chef Eric suggests preparing a quick, easy, and delicious meal that will awaken all of your senses. Cooking Lessons Online can help you achieve this task like a pro!

SIGHT: Good plating, highlighting the food, and ingredients. Remember that at the end of the day, everything enters through the eyes.
SMELL: Through the perception of the aroma of each ingredient, and also the aroma of a good wine that will accompany the dish.
TOUCH: Through the textures of the food and the temperature. So be careful, the human palate can withstand temperatures from -4 ° F to 122 ° F.
TASTE: Through the harmony and intensity of the foods.
HEARING: When you talk to your partner about what the menu is going to be; awakening the appetite. The hearing sense also participates with the sound of the different food textures!

Check out Chef Eric’s Online Cooking Series, where you can learn more about food prepping, plating, quick – easy, and chef-grade meals to enjoy with your partner. These Cooking Lessons Online can definitely help you to WOW your partner!

6. Couple Games:
To end a successful date night, you can plan different games. Get creative, write words on the back of your partner so that she or he can guess the words. This game will cause laughter and caresses that will awaken the sense of TOUCH, exploring the emotion of DESIRE towards your partner.

We hope you enjoy our date night tips. Keep it simple, let yourself go, and play with your senses. Happy Valentine’s Day!

online culinary classes photo

Online Culinary Classes: IT’S TIME TO LEARN TO COOK!

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There is no better time than now to learn to cook. Take that online culinary class that you’ve always dreamed of! Gastronomy is the art that studies the different cultural perspectives where its central focus is food and the relationship with human beings. It is the study of food and culture, the art of preparing and serving food, the cooking styles of particular regions, and the science of good eating.

Today and more than ever, the time we dedicate to cooking is extremely important as it is an essential part of our lives. For this reason, Chef Eric has created his 12 Episode Cooking Series. The main purpose of these online culinary classes is to teach you the fundamentals of cooking in a simple and professional way – making this task not look as difficult as you may think.

Here are the reasons why now is the perfect time to learn basic cooking skills and start your culinary journey:

  1. Meeting a Primary Need:

    Cooking is a fundamental skill that we should all learn at an early age. The art of cooking satisfies one of the most basic needs of our life. An online culinary class will help you to prepare your meals according to your cravings and give the best to your palate.

  2. Learn New Techniques and Cooking Recipes:

    Chef Eric in his first online culinary class discusses Knife Skills and teaches you how to make the different cuts for vegetables. During this course, you will learn different foundations, culturally diverse recipes, and the versatility of each ingredient (different types of meat, carbohydrates, and seafood). By obtaining this basic yet powerful knowledge; you will surely want to initiate your journey as a master chef.

  3. Raise Awareness About Food Waste in the World:

    As beginners, one of the most common mistakes we make is not knowing how to measure portions. This can generally lead to food waste. It is important to begin to raise awareness of this error so that you will know how to portion food properly. This will generate a balance between cost, value, and care for the planet.

  4. Gain Confidence by Cooking Well:

    Taking into account all the advice of Chef Eric in each of his classes, you will practice and clear doubts that will help you to experiment with tranquility. Cooking for other people is incredibly beneficial for your well being, and you will lose your fear by gaining confidence in yourself. As you learn, everything is more practical and with fewer mistakes. This will help you feel like an expert and your self-esteem will thank you. There is nothing better than cooking to release stress and gain confidence at the same time!

  5. Learn How to Plate:

    With these exciting classes, you will learn to present your dishes in a beautiful way; adding value to what you have learned. Remember that giving the final touch when serving a dish to your family or people you love is extremely important. Cooking is an art that we first appreciate with our eyes!

  6. Spend Quality Time with Friends:

    During this time you will discover that many of your friends might be in the same situation of wanting to explore the world of cooking. After taking these online culinary classes, you will be able to share your knowledge and recipes with other Foodie Friends. This is a great way to stay connected!

    Cooking is a fundamental knowledge of our daily routine. This activity is highly valued professionally in all countries of the world. It’s your turn to learn, don’t miss the chance to improve your cooking skills. Take advantage of Chef Eric’s 12 Episode Video Course and take control of your kitchen!

    If you are in LA and want to experience the classes in person, check out Chef Eric’s upcoming classes for beginners and professionals. Chef Eric has the perfect programs for you at his Culinary Classroom in Los Angeles (Covid Safety Procedure are in place).

Click to learn more about the culinary programs.

Can’t wait to cook with you!

Post holiday detox

Post Holiday Detox

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Foods that will help you with post holiday detox.

7 Tips to help you cleanse and detox your body after the holidays.

The average American gains between 1 to 10 pounds between Thanksgiving and Christmas, according to Healthline. Let’s be real – the festivities usually lead to over-eating. From meetings to holiday celebrations, we end up eating and drinking quite often. This is why a Post Holiday Detox is a must!

Chef Eric shares foods for a natural detox at home. This eating plan will help activate the body’s self-cleaning system to eliminate toxins, regain energy, and improve your mood. These power foods can be included in smoothies, soups, or solid foods. 

Natural Yogurt:

  • It is a probiotic food
  • Exercises the work of regulating our digestive system
  • Contains high levels of protein, enzymes and calcium
  • It must always be without sugar, fruits or additives
  • Natural Yogurt is suggested at breakfast and dinner

Sesame Seeds:

  • Generates protection in liver cells against the consumption of alcohol and chemicals- Regulates bad cholesterol
  • Contains proteins, vitamins and minerals
  • It is suggested in small quantities

Black Radish:

  • High content of folic acid
  • Source of vitamin C
  • Removes bilirubin from the liver
  • Contains a large amount of water and fiber
  • Helps eliminate retained fluids

Carrots:

  • Contain beta-carotene and falcarinol that help the proper functioning of the liver helping to detoxify the body
  • Improves the skin
  • Improves eye health

Avocado:

  • Provides potassium and lowers blood pressure
  • Decreases anxiety
  • Takes care of brain health
  • Helps the proper functioning of the liver
  • Helps to level blood sugar

Water:

  • Mixed with a little vinegar, lemon and baking soda – it helps digestion
  • Purifies the body
  • Activates and cleanses our organs: 1 glass before eating for digestion
  • Regulates blood pressure: 1 glass before taking a shower 

Green Tea:

  • Cleanses the kidneys, liver and lungs
  • Diuretic drink with antioxidants and nutrients
  • Consuming green tea daily helps reduce the risk of heart attacks
  • Green Tea helps you lose weight

For this Post Holiday Detox, it is important to eliminate refined sugars, saturated fats, flours, alcohol and tobacco from your diet. The idea of the Post Holiday Detox is to generate a routine of healthy habits in which you can include different legumes, fruits and vegetables.

Professional recipes from chefs, such as Chef Eric can teach us to improve our diet. Check out Chef Eric’s New Video Cooking Series and learn more. The full twelve video series is available for purchase, and it comes with a PDF version of Chef Eric’s new cookbook. Receive an additional 15% OFF if you purchase by 12/31/20. Remember that daily exercise and eight hours of sleep are a must when it comes to healthy habits.! 

Chef Eric wishes you a Healthy and Happy New Year! For cooking inspiration ideas and culinary classes visit our YouTube channel. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter to receive a FREE video class and learn to cook online!

 

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