For many years, nuts’ high fat content was perceived as far outweighing their health benefits, so they weren't considered an essential part of a balanced diet. However, perspectives started to change when, in 2003, the Food and Drug Administration released a public health statement that just 1.5 ounces (approximately a handful) of nuts each day might reduce the risk of heart disease. Since then, nuts have been making a serious comeback as one of the most important components of a balanced diet. The following varieties top the nutritionists’ lists. The Right Fat: Almonds Almonds are a rich source of vitamin E and monounsaturated fat—one of the two “good” fats—and help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. Smooth in shape and sweet in taste, almonds provide health … [Read more...]
Pecan Pralines for {National Praline Day}
I was born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina. Us tried and true Southern gals love our pecans, especially when they are in pralines. I always love going down to the Charleston Market or to Savannah's Candy Kitchen to get some fresh pecan pralines. But, since I recently moved out of Charleston, I needed a good excuse to learn to make my own pecan pralines! Being the healthy conscious person I am, I also wanted to make pecan pralines that weren't as bad for me as what I'd find in a candy shop. So, here they are. I hope you love these decadent southern pecan pralines as much as my family and I do! They take a bit of patience and you absolutely must have a candy thermometer to pull them off. The temperature is a science! So, this National Praline Day (June 23rd), … [Read more...]
Baked Pecan Caramel Cheesecake Recipe
Did you know that April is National Pecan Month? Well it is, and although we could celebrate by snacking on a handful of pecans, topping a scoop of ice cream with a few, or by tossing a few toasted pecans into a salad, what better way to celebrate than with dessert. This delicious Baked Pecan Caramel Cheesecake recipe is the perfect way to celebrate. Ingredients: Cheesecake Base 6 sheets of Graham Crackers 1/2 cup chopped pecans 4 tbs of butter (softened) 2 tbs sugar Cheesecake Filling 1 package (8oz) cream cheese (room temperature) 2 eggs (lightly beaten) 1 tsp vanilla essence 3/4 cup sugar 2/3 cup heavy whipping cream pinch of salt Additional ingredients Caramels Evaporated milk Pecans (roughly chopped) Butter (melted) for greasing the … [Read more...]
