Elle Republic

Chia is an edible seed, belonging to the same family as mint, oregano and thyme, and comes from the desert plant Salvia Hispanica which is grown in Mexico. The use of chia seeds go back to Mayan and Aztec cultures - “Chia” meaning strength, has a history of being used an energy booster within these cultures. Chia seeds are an unprocessed, whole-grain food that can be absorbed by the body as...

As you know, I love anything green, delicious, and fresh. And because a large part of me also loves good ole comfort food, I am even happier when I can combine something like pasta with something healthy. Like this flavor bomb of a pesto. I mean who could say no to a bowl of arugula and basil pesto finished off with fresh zingy lemon, and then tossed with oh-so-treasured pine...

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...