World Pasta Day

This might not be the type of post you would expect on a nutritionist's web site but here we go. I'm a big fan of pasta, so couldn't just let this day pass without any mentions. What's even more, I just had my home-made lasagna. The point I'm trying to make is that pasta is not necessarily bad for you. Just make sure you pay attention to a few things: avoid the highly processed white pasta and focus on the lovely spelt, durum or other whole grain types. For coeliacs and those with gluten sensitivity, I have good news: there is now pasta made of quinoa, beans or lentils. Probably you've already heard of the courgette 'spaghetti' craze, which can also be an alternative, although the taste is quite different. I really like it but I know that my Italian friends would think it's not sensible to call it a spaghetti. add some fresh herbs while you're cooking that pasta dish. Some rosemary or basil would fit quite nicely. If you are studying hard or you need to concentrate then choose rosemary. If you would like to do something for your heart today, then add basil. try to use organic meat if you are using any meat at all. I know it's more expensive but even a few decades ago meat was considered as a sort of luxury in many countries. It has now changed and you can buy those lovely promo priced chicken breasts every day. Is it good for you? No. Is it good for the environment? No. So maybe next time think about it and buy fewer but better quality. I will discuss this in more detail at a later time but now, let's focus on my original topic: World Pasta Day! chop vegetables in your dish and cook it bake it or steam it lightly, depending on the type. Carrots, broccoli, butternut squash, sweet potato would all go well with many pasta dishes. Be creative and try new versions, who said that lasagne cannot be made with asparagus or beetroot? use coconut or olive oil for cooking. I know that the taste of coconut can be a bit off-putting for a pasta dish but thankfully you can now buy it with a neutral taste. last but not least: sit down at the dinner table / coffee table / whatever table you have, which is not your work desk and enjoy talking to your dinner partner(s). If you are eating on your own, then focus on the taste and don't switch on the TV while you are eating. Make meal times meaningful and don't try to multitask. You can do that tomorrow at the office, right?