Elle Republic

Berries with Vanilla Mascarpone Cream is definitely not a brand new discovery, but it is oh-my-goodness-how-could-something-so-simple-be-so-delicious good! What’s not to love about fresh summer berries and my secret dessert weapon - mascarpone. Naturally sweet, yet surprisingly light, buttery soft mascarpone cheese makes everything taste glorious (and with 1/2 the calories of butter, it’s not as bad you might think, plus who would ever think of being so self indulgent to...

Insalata caprese (meaning, the salad from Capri) is the perfect summertime dish. I first experienced how delicious mangos in a caprese salad could be while enjoying a Thursday night (a.k.a. "little Friday") get together with friends at a neighboring café that serves up authentic Italian slow food. Mango Insalata Caprese -- a perfect summer salad The great thing about this salad is that you can throw it together in minutes. Though,...

Originating from the South America Andes, quinoa has been referred to by the Incas as being the "mother of all grains" (though, technically quinoa isn't a grain at all, but the seed of the Goosefoot plant). It tastes great, it's high in protein, and it's gluten-free. Quinoa is simple to prepare and packed with goodness, making it a perfect foundation for a tasty and satisfying meal. This quinoa salad with...

Zucchini is one of those vegetables that is extremely versatile and whether eaten raw or cooked can be completely yum-worthy. This is a great example of that -- zucchini ribbons tossed in a Thai inspired, tangy and spicy dressing. For good taste and attempts to disguise another dreaded zucchini dish from my favorite Schwabe, I first switched out green for a golden yellow. Do you think he knows there...

Did you know that rhubarb is good for you? Some even consider it a contender for joining the long list of “superfoods“. It's no secret that rhubarb is packed with minerals and vitamins, but it also has something called polyphenols -- an anti-cancerous compound that scientists are claiming may help prevent the growth of cancer cells. So eating a nice spring crumble or these tasty muffins could actually be...

Not everyone is as infatuated with artichokes as I am. I could eat them any possible way imaginable, whether they are fresh, marinated or simply from a can. They are a great addition to, well…as I see it...anything. In this case, their pure sweet and nutty flavor can be enjoyed in this simple orzo dish that is packed with fresh and zesty flavors. I’m on a little bit of an...