Shrimp cocktail is undeniably a beloved appetizer, cherished by many for its simplicity, elegance, and irresistible flavor. Its widespread popularity can be attributed to a combination of factors that make it a quintessential choice on menus across the United States, even in towns like Boulder, Colorado. First and foremost, shrimp cocktail’s appeal lies in its taste and texture. The crisp, succulent bite of chilled shrimp pairs perfectly with the tangy, zesty cocktail sauce. The contrast between the cold, briny seafood and the spicy, tomato-based condiment creates a harmonious flavor profile... Read More

Cruciferous vegetables are vegetables of the family Brassicaceae such as cauliflower, cabbage, bok choy, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and similar green leaf vegetables. High in vitamin C and soluble fiber with multiple nutrients and phytochemicals, cruciferous vegetables are one of the dominant food crops worldwide. In the fall, cruciferous veggies like Brussels sprouts and cauliflower are abundant.  Perhaps you’d like to try something new?  Allow me to introduce you to some cruciferous veggies you might not have tried. Mizuna.  Also known as Japanese mustard greens, mizuna has a rich, peppery... Read More

Hamburgers hold a special place in the hearts and stomachs of Americans, and this love extends even to places like Boulder, Colorado, with its unique blend of student and local populations. But why are hamburgers the most popular food in America, and how does Boulder contribute to this phenomenon? Firstly, hamburgers are the quintessential American comfort food. Their history dates back to the late 19th century when German immigrants introduced the concept of ground beef patties to the United States. Since then, hamburgers have undergone a glorious transformation. They are now customizable canvases,... Read More

Onion rings have a special place in the hearts and taste buds of many, and in Boulder, Colorado, they have garnered a particularly fervent following. These crispy, golden-brown rings of delight are not just a beloved snack; they’re practically an institution in this vibrant city nestled against the Rocky Mountains. But what makes onion rings in Boulder so popular and some of the best in the state? Let’s explore the factors contributing to their fame. First and foremost, Boulder’s love for onion rings is intertwined with its eclectic culinary culture. The city is known for its... Read More

Sherman’s travel embarked on a culinary journey with the ambitious goal of discovering the finest dining establishments in every state across the United States. Their quest led them to Boulder, Colorado, where they uncovered a true gem among restaurants. Nestled on the iconic Pearl Street Mall, this culinary haven has stood the test of time, proudly serving patrons for nearly two decades. Its enduring presence speaks volumes about the restaurant’s unwavering commitment to quality and excellence. What truly sets Frasca Food & Wine apart are the numerous accolades it has earned,... Read More

Boulder, Colorado, is renowned for its thriving coffee culture, and it’s no surprise that the city boasts some of the best coffee shops in the state. Several factors contribute to the widespread popularity of coffee in Boulder and the exceptional quality of its coffee shops. First and foremost, Boulder’s demographic makeup plays a significant role. The city is home to a diverse population of students, academics, tech professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts. This eclectic mix of residents fuels a strong demand for coffee, with people seeking caffeine for various purposes – whether... Read More

Bakeries in Boulder, Colorado have garnered immense popularity for several compelling reasons, contributing to a thriving food culture in the region. Here’s a closer look at why bakeries are so beloved and why Boulder boasts numerous excellent chefs and foodies: Health-Conscious Community: Boulder residents are known for their health-conscious lifestyle. Many bakeries in the area cater to this demographic by offering a wide range of organic, gluten-free, and vegan options. Boulder’s residents value high-quality, nutritious baked goods, which drive demand for innovative and healthy... Read More

Grits, a beloved Southern staple, have gained widespread popularity among people from all walks of life, transcending regional boundaries. This popularity can be attributed to several factors, including their versatility, comfort food appeal, and adaptability to various culinary styles. Moreover, grits have become a canvas for world-class chefs, even in places like Boulder, Colorado, where their culinary prowess knows no bounds. Here’s why grits have captured the hearts and palates of so many: Versatility: Grits are incredibly versatile. They can be served as a simple side dish or transformed... Read More

Sugar is everywhere, almost impossible to avoid.  It’s in foods like bread, pasta sauce, salad dressing, and ketchup. It can be challenging to find sugar in your food because nutrition labels are not required to list all sugar.  In 2018, nutrition labels will be required to call out all added sugar but, in the meantime, you’ll have to do some sugar sleuthing to manage your sugar intake. The Institute of Medicine has made recommendations for sugar intake.  Since sugar isn’t a required nutrient in the diet, the institute has not issued a recommended dietary allowance, but does suggest... Read More

Downtown Boulder’s Fall Fest is a cherished annual event in the Boulder community that typically spans three delightful days during the autumn season. This festival brings together residents and visitors alike to celebrate the vibrant spirit of Boulder with a mix of enticing offerings. Food and Brews: One of the highlights of Fall Fest is its diverse and delectable selection of food and beverages. Local restaurants and food vendors showcase their culinary creations, offering a wide range of flavors and cuisines. Craft breweries often join in, providing attendees with the opportunity to... Read More

The New York Times, a renowned publication with a rich history of culinary reporting, has once again turned its spotlight on the vibrant American dining scene. In a recent article, they unveiled their carefully curated list of the “50 American Restaurants They’re Most Excited About.” This highly anticipated list not only celebrates culinary excellence but also showcases the diversity and innovation found in the culinary landscape across the United States. Denver, a city known for its breathtaking Rocky Mountain backdrop, is currently enjoying a culinary renaissance that has earned... Read More

Ayurveda, the ancient science of natural health, is based on the principle that, in order to  live well, you must find balance. So when things heat up in the summer, the key to perfect health is to find ways to cool down – mentally, emotionally and physically. The governing agents for Ayurveda are the doshas – Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Summertime is Pitta season, and it affects metabolism, digestion and heat in the mind, body and environment. When Pitta becomes aggravated and overheated we get out of balance, affecting our emotions, body and behaviors. You may have noticed that, during hot... Read More

As the temperatures cool down, it’s a great time to cook some healthy comforting food.  As we’ve all heard for some time now, it’s important to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables – 5 to 9 servings is the recommendation. If you’re tired of the same old broccoli and green beans, how about something different? Locally grown produce is kinder to the environment and ensures that your produce is as fresh as possible. Fresher is better when you want to maximize the nutrient value of your produce. Here’s a sample of what’s available in Colorado this fall and... Read More

There is a growing body of evidence showing that eating spicy food can not only add life to your years, they add years to your life! Researchers collaborating from the Harvard School of Public Health and Brigham and Women’s Hospital published the results of a study conducted in China that compared adults who ate spicy foods regularly with those who did not. The study, which gathered data from over 487,000 people aged 30-79, found that people who eat spicy foods 6 or 7 times a week, had a 14% lower risk of premature death for all causes than people who ate spicy foods less than once a week. In... Read More

There seems to be some confusion about whether dairy should be part of the American diet.  While some dietitians recommend dairy, specifically milk, because it’s a good source of calcium and vitamin D — nutrients that contribute to bone health — researchers say that the science behind milk consumption and bone health is not conclusive.  So, what are the benefits of dairy products? While there is nutrient value to dairy products, most are available from eating other foods.  There are benefits to consuming dairy products, some of which are contrary to what we previously believed... Read More

Whether from your garden, the farmer’s market or the grocery store shelf, fall produce is fresh, seasonal and happening now!  Eating healthy may seem harder come fall, when your favorite summer produce dwindles and the choices seem fewer and, perhaps, unfamiliar. Take advantage of the opportunity and think outside the box in your fall food preparation. Most fall produce can be prepared in a number of tasty ways and all of the produce mentioned here is grown locally. Brussels sprouts are exceptionally rich in protein, dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Sprouts are a good source... Read More

We’ve all noticed that the sun rises later each day this time of year.  We see the change in the weather and make the accompanying changes in our food and clothing choices.  The autumn season is all about change – the leaves, the weather, our habits. Seasonal mood shifts often include less energy, feeling less social, cravings for carbs and changes in sleep habits, partly due to the change in exposure to daylight.  In the Western world, we talk about our circadian clock. The circadian clock monitors changes in day length and tells us when to feel sleepy and when to wake up and... Read More

We all have our favorite foods that we just can’t seem to live without, but what if our desire to eat certain foods is our body crying out for a specific nutrient? Food cravings can be described as a mild malnutrition, certainly not with the consequences as scurvy or other diseases related to chronic deprivation. Many who don’t eat enough whole foods or too many processed foods, suffer from a milder malnutrition that suggests nutrient deficiency.  Below is a little chart that shows some of the common cravings associated with nutrient deficiency. Craving Deficiency Eat this…. Chocolate Magnesium Nuts,... Read More

Boulder, Colorado, is often regarded as a hidden gem among food enthusiasts. While it may not have the same Italian culinary reputation as cities like New York or Boston, Boulder’s food scene has its unique charm and exceptional Italian dining options. The city’s burgeoning reputation as a foodie destination can be attributed to several factors. First and foremost, Boulder places a significant emphasis on using locally sourced and fresh ingredients. With its proximity to farms and a commitment to sustainability, restaurants in Boulder can offer a farm-to-table experience that many... Read More

Eighty percent of all people use plants as medicine to treat everything from digestive distress and fever to muscle pain and asthma, according to the World Health Organization. Did you know that eating spices like garlic, ginger or paprika can reduce the number of free radicals in your body? Free radicals are organic molecules responsible for aging, tissue damage, and possibly some diseases. These molecules are very unstable and look to bond with other molecules, destroying their health and further continuing the damaging process. Antioxidants, found in many spices and herbs, are molecules that... Read More