Spooky Bonus Blog
Hey there, spooky friends! With Halloween creeping up on us, I'm excited to share a special recipe that's not just for the season but for year-round enjoyment. This longevity recipe is perfect for keeping you feeling healthy and energized, no matter the time of year. So, gather round, and let's brew up something truly magical!
If you don't know me, then welcome! Let me tell you a little bit about myself. I love Greece and everything about it! I fell head over heels in love with Greece the first time I went for a vacation. The crystal-clear waters, stunning landscapes, and rich history left a lasting impression on me. I was captivated by the warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and the vibrant traditions of the Greek people. Every corner of the country seemed to be steeped in ancient history and mythology, adding to the allure of this beautiful place. I have been fortunate enough to visit numerous islands, including Syros, Santorini, Kalymnos, and Mykonos, and each one has its own unique charm. The experience of exploring ancient ruins, indulging in local delicacies, and witnessing breathtaking sunsets has made Greece a place that I hold dear to my heart.
I'm very interested in Blue Zones. Blue Zones are regions of the world where people live much longer than average. These areas have a high concentration of individuals over 100 years old, and the residents tend to have lower rates of chronic diseases. The concept of Blue Zones was popularized by National Geographic Fellow Dan Buettner, who identified five regions as Blue Zones: Ikaria (Greece), Okinawa (Japan), Ogliastra (Sardinia), Loma Linda (California), and Nicoya Peninsula (Costa Rica). These areas share common lifestyle and environmental factors that contribute to the longevity and well-being of their inhabitants.
Ikaria, an enchanting island in Greece, is a "Blue Zone" due to the exceptional longevity and well-being of its inhabitants. Its serene lifestyle, rich Mediterranean diet, strong sense of community, and active daily routines have captured global attention.
The stunning landscape—featuring beautiful coastlines, lush mountains, and therapeutic hot springs—provides an ideal environment for promoting holistic wellness. The island's unique culture, complete with regular social gatherings and a relaxed approach to life, greatly contributes to the vitality and health of its residents. Many visitors are drawn to Ikaria, eager to immerse themselves in its rejuvenating atmosphere and learn from the wisdom of its long-living people.
I haven’t had the chance to visit this incredible island yet, but it’s definitely at the top of my travel bucket list! Keep an eye on my social media pages, as I’ll be sharing all the exciting details from my upcoming trip to Ikaria soon.
The local diet is primarily vegetarian, featuring legumes, vegetables, beans, fruits, occasional meat, and, of course, a little wine! I’m excited to share a favorite recipe for Greek Gemista, which are stuffed tomatoes. YUM! Since it’s Halloween, I’ve even cut little Jack-o'-lantern faces into them before cooking—which is a fun twist you can choose to do as well!
Greek Gemista (Stuffed Tomatoes) Recipe:
Ingredients
- 2 baking potatoes, cut into wedges
- 2 large tomatoes
- 2 bell peppers
For the Filling:
- ¼ cup rice
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 2 small zucchinis, diced
- Chopped tomato flesh
- 2 garlic cloves, grated
- 6 ounces of water or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint
- 6 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
For the Sauce:
- 16 ounces of pureed tomatoes
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ to 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
Instructions
1. **Preheat your oven** to 400°F.
2. **Prepare the Vegetables:** Peel the potatoes and cut them into wedges, soaking them in cold water to preserve their brightness. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and bell peppers, discarding the seeds, and scoop out the tomato flesh, setting it aside in a bowl.
3. **Make the Filling:** In a pan, let the olive oil warm, and allow the onions to become soft and golden, about 10 minutes. Infuse the aroma with grated garlic for a few seconds. Add the rice, cooking until it shines with translucence. Stir in the vibrant tomatoes, zucchini, seasoning them with salt and pepper, and gain bliss as the liquid evaporates. Fold in the parsley, mint, oregano, and crumbled feta, creating a harmonious blend. Adjust the flavors to your liking and set this masterpiece aside.
4. **Prepare the Sauce:** In another pan, gently sauté the onions in olive oil until they radiate warmth and golden hue, about 10 minutes. Add garlic, allowing its fragrance to emerge. Pour in the pureed tomatoes, seasoning them boldly with salt, pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, sugar, and oregano. Let it simmer, thickening with purpose for about 10 minutes, while you taste and adjust the notes of flavor.
5. **Assemble the Dish:** Pour the vibrant sauce into a baking dish, a canvas for your creation. Drain the potatoes, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and oregano for that extra touch. Optionally, season the insides of the vegetables with a hint of salt. Stuff each vegetable generously with the filling, topping them proudly, and brush lightly with olive oil. Nestle the stuffed vegetables into the sauce, filling any gaps with the seasoned potatoes, and cover with parchment and foil.
6. **Bake:** Let your creation bake covered for 45 minutes, then unveil it by removing the foil and parchment. Allow it to bake for an additional 35-40 minutes until the potatoes are tender and inviting.
7. **Serve** with toasted bread, and savor the rewarding journey of flavors you’ve crafted!
Enjoy this delicious and healthy Greek Gemista recipe, and feel free to get creative with the presentation, especially if you're making it for Halloween!
Find out more about Blue Zones here!
