You’re probably already eating a lot of foods that are plant-based and don’t even realize it. So when you think about doing the One Meal a Day for the Planet 30 Day challenge in January, it won’t be as hard as you think.
One way that’s super easy to swap out is using a (good) olive oil in place of butters and fats. I have found when you use a really good EVOO, you don’t even need extra flavors from butter or cheese – the oil will elevate your flavor for you.
Easy ways to do this are simple:
– roasting a mixture of vegetables tossed in European Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) and salt and pepper
– pasta dishes with European Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) instead of a cream sauce, such as Broccoli Rabe with garlic and olive oil
– hummus!
What is an EVOO and why is European best?
I live in Astoria – so there is a constant daily battle over who has better olive oil – Greeks or Italians, but one this is for sure, European olives and oils are the tastiest. Over thousands of years and farmers, the olive tree has evolved into hundreds of varieties and produces the most delicious yields – like Olitalia.
Olitalia believes all great cooking revolves around great oil. Olitalia is the #1 brand most used by chefs in Italy and is now available for home cooking in the US. Look for Olitalia at Eataly locations.
How to make Hummus
For some reason, people find hummus intimidating and hard to make. I have a solid, go-to hummus that I make myself at home that is simple and delicious, and if you give it a try, you might stop buying store-bought hummus altogether.
Red Bean and Eggplant Hummus
Ingredients:
– 1 eggplant
– 1 15-oz. can red kidney beans (rinsed and drained)
– 3 TBSP of European Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)
– 2 garlic cloves
– 1 tsp cumin powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– juice of one small lemon
– salt and pepper to taste
– fresh pita or naan to dip in!
Directions:
1. Heat the oven to 400 degrees F and place the eggplant on a baking tray. Roast for 40 minutes or until soft. Allow time to cool and then peel/remove the skin.
2. Place the roasted eggplant flesh and all other ingredients inside a food processor, EXCEPT the European Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO).
3. Pulse until smooth.
4. Slowly add in the European Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) until it becomes smooth and dipping consistency.
5. Add salt and pepper to taste, and warm up your pita bread/naan in the oven for about five minutes. Cut into serving pieces and enjoy!
Available at Eataly locations. Go to https://www.olitalia.com/ww-en/ and follow us at https://www.instagram.com/olitalia.it/
