Is Arugula Good To Eat Raw?
Arugula is a popular leafy green vegetable that is commonly enjoyed for its peppery taste and nutritional benefits.
One question that many people have about arugula is whether it is good to eat raw.
Nutritional Benefits of Raw Arugula
Raw arugula is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, calcium, iron, and potassium.
It is also low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great addition to any healthy diet.
Taste and Texture of Raw Arugula
The taste of raw arugula can be quite strong and peppery.
Some people enjoy this taste, while others are put off by it.
The leaves themselves are tender but slightly chewy, which can take some getting used to if you’re not used to eating raw greens.
Is It Hard to Digest Raw Arugula?
Arugula is generally considered easy to digest, even when eaten raw.
However, some people may experience discomfort or bloating after eating large amounts of raw arugula or other leafy greens.
The Healthiest Way to Eat Arugula
The healthiest way to eat arugula depends on your personal preferences and dietary needs.
Eating it raw preserves its nutritional content, but cooking it can make it easier to digest and change the flavor profile.
Can You Eat Arugula Like Lettuce?
Yes!
Arugula can be eaten raw in salads or sandwiches just like lettuce.
It can also be cooked into soups or pasta dishes for added flavor and nutrition.
Is Arugula Healthier Cooked or Raw?
Both cooked and raw arugula have their own health benefits.
Eating it cooked can help break down its tough fibers for easier digestion while retaining many of its nutrients.
Eating it raw delivers the maximum amount of nutrients.
In conclusion, eating raw arugula is a healthy option due to its numerous nutritional benefits but some people may find its flavor quite strong if they are unaccustomed to strong-tasting greens.
Additionally, choosing whether you will eat it cooked or broached entirely depends on your personal preference in terms of nutrition value versus taste experience.
Overall arugla, however, remains an excellent vegetable with various long-term health benefits that make including them in your daily meals a great idea!
Is Raw Arugula Hard To Digest?
Arugula is a leafy green vegetable that is low in calories but high in nutrients.
It is often eaten raw in salads or used as a garnish for sandwiches or pizza.
Some people may be concerned about the digestibility of raw arugula especially if they suffer from digestive problems.
The fiber in arugula
Fiber is essential for good digestion, and arugula contains both soluble and insoluble fiber.
Soluble fiber dissolves in water and forms a gel-like substance, which helps to slow down digestion and makes you feel fuller for longer.
Insoluble fiber adds bulk to your stool and helps to move it through your digestive system.
The combination of soluble and insoluble fiber in arugula makes it easy to digest.
The enzymes in arugula
Arugula contains enzymes that help to break down food during digestion.
These enzymes are important because they help your body absorb all the nutrients from your food more effectively.
When you eat raw arugula, these enzymes are still intact, which means that the vegetable can be easily digested by your body.
Possible side effects
While arugula is generally safe to consume, some people may have an allergic reaction to it.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include itching, swelling, or wheezing.
If you experience any of these symptoms after eating raw arugula, stop consuming it immediately and seek medical attention.
Additionally, some people may experience bloating or gas after eating large quantities of raw arugula due to its high fiber content.
It is best to start with small amounts of this vegetable if you have not eaten it before and gradually increase your intake over time.
The verdict
In conclusion, raw arugula is not hard to digest for most people since it contains both soluble and insoluble fibers as well as digestive enzymes.
However, some individuals may experience digestive discomfort due to its high fiber content or have an allergic reaction.
To avoid any negative reactions, it’s always best to start with small amounts of this vegetable until you know how your body reacts.
What Is The Healthiest Way To Eat Arugula?
Raw arugula
Eating arugula raw in a salad is a popular and healthy option.
Raw arugula is low in calories, high in fiber, and provides essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin K, calcium, and folate.
Unlike other leafy greens such as spinach or kale, arugula has a peppery flavor that adds a unique taste to your salad.
Cooked arugula
Cooking arugula is another way to enjoy its benefits.
When cooked, the peppery taste decreases and its flavor becomes milder.
The health benefits of cooked arugula are similar to those of the raw version.
Sautéed arugula
Sautéing arugula with a little bit of olive oil and garlic can add an extra depth of flavor to your dish while maintaining its nutritional value.
It’s important not to overcook the arugula as it can become mushy and lose some of its nutritional value when exposed to high heat for too long.
Arugula pesto
Another way to consume arugula is by making pesto with it.
Arugula pesto can be used on pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip for vegetables.
Just like raw and cooked versions of arugula, pesto made with this leafy green also contains nutrients that provide health benefits.
In conclusion, there are many ways to consume this leafy green vegetable.
Whether you prefer it raw or cooked, it’s an excellent addition to any diet due to its numerous health benefits.
Can You Eat Arugula Like Lettuce?
Arugula and lettuce are both leafy greens that are widely used in salads.
However, they have some distinct differences in taste, texture and nutritional value.
Arugula has a peppery taste, while lettuce has a milder taste.
Arugula is also more nutrient-dense than lettuce, containing higher amounts of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Arugula vs Lettuce
Lettuce is often used as the base for a salad due to its mild flavor and crunchy texture.
It comes in many varieties such as iceberg, romaine, butterhead, and leaf lettuce.
While it has some nutritional value like fiber and Vitamin C, it is not as nutrient-dense as arugula.
In contrast, arugula has a spicy flavor and a tender texture that can add complexity to any salad or dish.
It’s packed with nutrients like Vitamin K, calcium and iron which are important for healthy bones and red blood cells.
Ways to Eat Arugula
There are many ways to incorporate arugula into your diet:
- Add it fresh to salads or sandwiches
- Sauté it with garlic and olive oil as a side dish
- Puree it with nuts and cheese for pesto
- Toss it with pasta dishes or use as flatbread topping
Can You Eat Arugula Raw Like Lettuce?
Yes!
Arugula is perfectly safe to eat raw just like lettuce.
Is Arugula Healthier Cooked or Raw?
Eating arugula either cooked or raw provides several health benefits because of its high nutritional content such as vitamins A,C,K folate, calcium etc.
However the method of cooking will affect the nutrient content of arugula:
- Cooking arugula: Like other vegetables, boiling or simmering will reduce the nutritional content of arugula due to leaching into water.
- Eating raw: if eaten raw without overcooking retains all its nutrients.
- Eating combination: The good way is to combine cooked and raw preparation methods so that we get nutrients from both the sides.
What Are The Side Effects Of Eating Arugula?
Eating large amount of arugula does not cause any serious harm but few people may experience minor side effects like:
- Bloating & gas: this can be experienced by some people especially if they consume large amounts of cruciferous vegetables including kale, cabbage etc at once.
- Kidney stones: People who are already prone to kidney stones should limit intake of foods that contain high oxalates including dark green vegetables like spinach, bok choy, aruhgla etc.
- Allergy : certain individuals may develop an allergic reaction after consuming aruhgla, it causes itching rashes on skin along with nose congestion etc.
Final Thoughts
You can easily substitute lettuce with nutrient-rich arugula in your salads or other dishes.
Eating this leafy green vegetable either cooked or raw provides several health benefits due to its high nutrition content but make sure you don’t overdo it because excess of anything is not good for health.
Is Arugula Healthier Cooked Or Raw?
Arugula is a leafy green vegetable that is part of the Brassicaceae family, which also includes broccoli, kale, and cabbage.
Arugula can be eaten raw or cooked, and both ways provide different health benefits.
Nutritional value of raw and cooked arugula
Raw arugula has high concentrations of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
Eating raw arugula also provides fiber, which helps with digestion and weight management.
Cooked arugula loses some of its vitamin C content but gains more vitamin K.
Vitamin K plays an essential role in blood clotting and bone health.
The difference in taste
Raw arugula has a slightly bitter taste with peppery notes.
Cooking the leaves softens their texture and makes the taste milder than when it’s eaten raw.
Conclusion
In conclusion, arugula can be healthy when eaten either raw or cooked.
When you eat it raw, you benefit from high nutritional value such as vitamins A & C, calcium and iron amongst others.
Cooking it might make it easier to digest for some people as well give one vitamin K.
However, cooking reduces the amount of vitamin C in the leaves.
Choose to eat it whichever way you prefer based on your personal preferences and dietary needs.
What Are The Side Effects Of Arugula?
Arugula is a healthy and nutritious leafy green vegetable that is enjoyed by many people.
However, like any food, it can have side effects if consumed in large quantities or if you have an allergy or sensitivity to it.
Can Arugula Cause Stomach Problems?
One of the potential side effects of eating arugula is gastrointestinal distress.
Some people may experience bloating, gas, stomach cramps, or diarrhea after consuming this leafy green.
If you are prone to digestive issues, start with small amounts of arugula and gradually increase your intake to see how your body responds.
Is Arugula a Laxative?
Arugula has a high fiber content which can help regulate digestion and promote healthy bowel movements.
In some cases, this may cause a laxative effect which can be beneficial for those suffering from constipation.
However, consuming too much arugula can lead to diarrhea and other digestive discomforts.
Does Arugula Cleanse the Liver?
Arugula contains antioxidants and sulfur-containing compounds that are thought to support healthy liver function.
While arugula alone cannot cleanse the liver, incorporating it into a well-rounded diet including other liver-supportive foods such as broccoli and garlic may help improve overall liver health.
Conclusion
Although arugula has numerous health benefits, it can also cause side effects in some people such as stomach problems or digestive issues.
It is important to listen to your body when incorporating new foods into your diet and consume them in moderation until you know how your body reacts.
Is Arugula More Healthy Than Spinach?
Nutritional Comparison of Arugula and Spinach
Arugula and spinach are both considered to be superfoods because of their high nutritional value.
However, arugula has more calcium and vitamins C and K than spinach.
On the other hand, spinach has more iron, folate, and vitamin A.
Health Benefits of Arugula
Arugula is packed with antioxidants that help to fight off free radicals in the body.
It is also a good source of dietary nitrates which can help to lower blood pressure levels.
Additionally, arugula can aid in digestion because it contains fiber that promotes healthy bowel movements.
Health Benefits of Spinach
Spinach is known for its high iron content which helps to prevent anemia.
It is also rich in Vitamin A which improves vision health.
Regular consumption of spinach can boost your immune system as well as reduce the risk of several chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.
Conclusion: Which One Is Better?
Both arugula and spinach have their unique set of health benefits.
While arugula has higher content of certain nutrients such as calcium, vitamins C and K; spinach provides more iron, folate an vitamin A per serving.
The choice between these two greens ultimately comes down to personal preference or dietary requirements.
Including both greens in your diet can ensure that you are getting a wide range of nutrients for optimal health.
Which Is Healthier: Kale Or Arugula?
Nutritional Comparison
When it comes to nutritional value, both kale and arugula are considered superfoods.
However, each has its own unique set of vitamins and minerals that make them different from each other.
Kale is known for being rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, beta-carotene, and calcium.
It also contains iron, potassium, and folate.
On the other hand, arugula is a good source of vitamins A and C, calcium, potassium, and magnesium.
It also has a high concentration of antioxidants.
Health Benefits
Both kale and arugula have numerous health benefits.
Kale is known for its anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the risk of heart disease and various types of cancer such as breast cancer.
It can also help improve bone health due to its high calcium content.
Arugula also has anti-inflammatory properties along with phytochemicals that help boost the immune system.
It contains sulfur-containing compounds that are beneficial for detoxification processes in the liver.
Arugula may also have benefits for gut health by promoting healthy digestion.
Cooking Methods
Both kale and arugula can be eaten raw or cooked.
However, it’s important to note that some nutrients are lost during cooking.
Kale can be cooked in various ways such as steaming or sautéing without losing much of its nutrient value.
Arugula should be consumed raw to retain its nutritional content as much as possible because cooking can destroy some of its nutrients.
The Verdict
Both kale and arugula have their own unique set of nutritional benefits depending on your needs.
If you’re looking for a leafy green with high amounts of vitamin C and calcium for strong bones, then kale might be your best choice.
However, if you’re looking for a leafy green with antioxidants and detoxifying properties to support liver function then arugula might be the way to go.
In conclusion, both kale and arugula are excellent choices if you want to add more greens to your diet.
The key is to choose the one that best suits your specific nutritional needs based on their individual characteristics as outlined above.
Why Does My Stomach Hurt After Eating Arugula?
Gastrointestinal issues
Arugula is a cruciferous vegetable that contains a compound known as sulforaphane.
Sulforaphane is known to have anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting properties, but it can also irritate the lining of your gut, causing bloating, gas, diarrhea or stomach cramps.
If you have a sensitive stomach or suffer from an inflammatory bowel condition such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, the consumption of raw arugula may trigger inflammation or worsen some digestive symptoms.
Bacterial contamination
Like many leafy greens, Arugula can be contaminated with bacteria such as E.coli and Salmonella which can cause food poisoning symptoms like nausea, vomiting or stomach pain when consumed.
To reduce the risk of bacterial contamination wash your arugula thoroughly before consuming it either raw or cooked.
Also ensure that you buy organic produce that has been grown and handled safely.
Ways to prevent stomach discomfort when consuming arugula
If you’re experiencing stomach discomfort after eating Arugula there are certain things you can do to help prevent this discomfort.
- Cook your arugula: Cooking your veggies breaks down their fibers which makes them easier to digest.
- Try adding a handful of Arugula in soups or stews for added nutrition and flavor.
- Combine with other greens: Mix arugula with other greens like spinach or lettuce to reduce its concentration in your meal and make it easier on your gut.
- Start small: If you’re new to consuming Arugula start small and gradually increase the amount that you consume over time.
- This will allow your body time to adjust to the fiber content found in Arugula.
In conclusion, while there are many health benefits associated with consuming raw arugula, it may not be suitable for everyone due to its potential side effects on digestion.
To avoid any health complications, consider cooking your arugula or combining it with other greens to lessen its impact on your digestive system.
Additionally ensuring that Arugular is washed thoroughly and selecting organic produce can go a long way in preventing bacterial contamination associated with this veggie.
What Are The Side Effects Of Eating Arugula?
1. Gastrointestinal problems
Arugula is known to contain goitrogens, which are compounds that can interfere with the production of thyroid hormones, causing gastrointestinal issues.
Moreover, arugula has a high fiber content that can also cause bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort in some people.
2. Kidney stone formation
Arugula contains oxalates, which can contribute to the formation of calcium oxalate kidney stones.
People who have had kidney stones in the past or are at risk for developing them should consume arugula in moderation or avoid it altogether.
3. Allergic reactions
Like any other food item, some people may develop an allergic reaction to arugula.
Symptoms of arugula allergy typically include hives, itching, and swelling of the face and throat.
4. Interference with blood thinners
Arugula is a rich source of Vitamin K, which plays a significant role in blood clotting.
People taking blood-thinning medications such as Coumadin (warfarin) should be cautious with their intake of Vitamin K-rich foods like arugula since it may interfere with their medication’s effectiveness.
5. Pesticide residues
Arugula is one of the leafy greens most likely to contain pesticide residues since it is grown close to the ground where pests often thrive.
Therefore it’s advisable to wash your arugula thoroughly before consuming it.
In conclusion, while arugula is generally safe and healthy for most people when consumed in moderation, some individuals may experience side effects when eating it raw or cooked with other foods or drinks that could lead to unwanted outcomes.
Always consult with your healthcare provider or nutritionist before suddenly adding it into your diet if you have medical concerns about its consumption.
Is Arugula Better For You Cooked Or Raw?
Arugula is a leafy green that is packed with nutrients such as vitamin K, vitamin C, calcium, and potassium.
Its distinctive peppery flavor makes it popular in salads and sandwiches.
The Benefits of Eating Raw Arugula
Eating arugula raw preserves its nutritional value because cooking can destroy some of the vitamins and minerals present.
Raw arugula can provide numerous health benefits such as boosting your immune system, preventing cancer, improving heart health, and maintaining healthy skin.
The Benefits of Eating Cooked Arugula
Cooking arugula can enhance its taste and make it easier to digest.
The heat breaks down the fiber present in the vegetable making it easier for our body to absorb the essential nutrients.
Cooked arugula can provide health benefits such as improving eye health, reducing inflammation, and lowering blood pressure.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both raw and cooked arugula have their own set of benefits.
If you are eating it solely for its nutritional value, then consuming it raw is better.
However, if you prefer having a tastier option or have a sensitive digestive system that may not tolerate raw greens well – opting for cooked arugula won’t deprive nutritional value either.
It all comes down to personal preference and how your body responds to this vegetable.
You can include both raw and cooked arugula in your diet to gain maximum benefit from this superfood.
Is Arugula A Laxative?
Arugula, also known as rocket, is an edible plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family.
This green leafy vegetable has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its unique peppery taste and numerous health benefits.
One common question people have about arugula is whether it acts as a laxative.
The short answer is yes, it can help relieve constipation and promote bowel movements.
Why Does Arugula Act as a Laxative?
Arugula contains a significant amount of fiber, which plays an essential role in promoting regular bowel movements.
A single cup of arugula contains about one gram of fiber, which is roughly 4% of the daily recommended intake for adults.
The fiber in arugula adds bulk to your stool, making it easier to pass through your digestive system.
It also helps keep your gut healthy by feeding beneficial gut bacteria and preventing constipation.
Other Health Benefits of Arugula
In addition to its laxative effects, arugula has many other health benefits.
It’s packed with nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants that help protect against chronic disease.
Studies have also shown that arugula may have anti-inflammatory properties and could help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
How to Incorporate Arugula into Your Diet
Arugula is very versatile and can be eaten raw or cooked in various dishes.
You can add it to salads or use it as a garnish on pizza or pasta dishes.
You can even blend it into smoothies for an added nutrient boost.
When eating arugula raw, make sure to rinse it thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
You can also mix it with other greens like spinach or kale for added flavor and nutrition.
Cautions When Eating Arugula
While arugula is generally safe for most people to eat, some may experience allergic reactions or digestive issues when consuming large amounts.
Some people may also find that eating raw arugula causes stomach discomfort or bloating.
To avoid these issues, start by introducing small amounts of arugula into your diet and gradually increase the serving size over time.
If you experience any discomfort or allergic reactions after consuming arugula, stop consuming it immediately and consult your healthcare provider.
Overall, arugula is a delicious and nutrient-dense vegetable that can offer many health benefits when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Does Arugula Detox The Liver?
Arugula and liver health
Arugula is a great source of antioxidants such as flavonoids, carotenoids and vitamin C that can help protect the liver from oxidative stress.
In addition, it contains beneficial compounds such as indole-3-carbinol which triggers enzymes in the liver to detoxify carcinogens.
How arugula supports liver detoxification
Studies have shown that arugula has compounds that support liver detoxification by increasing the production of glutathione, a protein that plays a crucial role in helping the liver eliminate toxins from the body.
Glutathione is essential for preventing damage to cellular components caused by peroxides and free radicals.
The best way to eat arugula for liver health
The best way to consume arugula is to eat it raw or lightly cooked in order to maintain its nutritional value.
Arugula leaves can be added to salads, sandwiches or smoothies for a boost of nutrients.
The bottom line
Arugula contains important nutrients and antioxidants that support liver function and aid in its detoxification process.
Eating it raw or lightly cooked is an effective way to reap its benefits.
However, if you have any concerns about your liver health or are experiencing symptoms, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before making any dietary changes.
Can Arugula Cause Stomach Problems?
Arugula is a popular leafy green vegetable that is often used in salads and other dishes.
While it is generally considered safe to eat, some people may experience digestive issues after consuming arugula.
Here are some of the ways in which arugula can cause stomach problems:
Eating too much raw arugula
Arugula has a distinctive, slightly bitter flavor that can be overpowering when consumed in large quantities.
Eating too much raw arugula at once may cause bloating and gas, leading to stomach discomfort.
It is best to limit your intake of raw arugula and pair it with other milder greens such as spinach or lettuce.
Nitrate content
Arugula contains nitrates, which are compounds that help plants grow.
In some people, consuming foods high in nitrates can lead to stomach problems such as diarrhea and vomiting.
Pesticide residue
If the arugula you consume has been exposed to pesticides or other harmful chemicals during farming, it can result in adverse health effects such as gastrointestinal issues.
It’s important to wash your arugula thoroughly before consuming it.
Sensitivities and allergies
Some people may have sensitivities or allergies to certain compounds found in arugula that can lead to digestive issues such as nausea, abdominal pain, or diarrhea.
If you experience any of these symptoms after consuming arugula or any other food, seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while most people can consume arugula without experiencing any adverse side effects on their digestive systems, others may experience discomfort due to the reasons mentioned above.
Moderation and ensuring proper washing of the vegetable before consumption are essential for preventing stomach problems caused by consuming too much or contaminated vegetables.
Does Arugula Cleanse The Liver?
Arugula has long been known for its detoxifying properties, and there’s no denying the health benefits of this leafy green.
But can it really cleanse your liver?
Let’s take a closer look.
What is the function of the liver?
Before we dive into the question of whether or not arugula can cleanse your liver, let’s first discuss what the liver does.
The liver is a vital organ responsible for processing everything you consume and filtering out toxins from your bloodstream.
It produces bile, which helps break down fats and absorbs essential vitamins and minerals.
How does arugula help in cleansing the liver?
Arugula contains compounds that have been shown to support healthy liver function.
These compounds include glucosinolates, which help to stimulate enzymes in the liver that filter out toxins.
Arugula also contains antioxidants that protect against damage caused by free radicals, reducing inflammation in the body.
Other foods that are good for liver health
While arugula is undoubtedly a great addition to any diet for its myriad of health benefits, it’s not the only food that can help support a healthy liver.
Other foods that are beneficial for liver health include:
- Leafy greens such as spinach and kale
- Berries such as blueberries and raspberries
- Citrus fruits like lemon and grapefruit
- Turmeric
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Nuts and seeds like almonds and chia seeds
The bottom line
While there is no magic food that will detoxify your body or cleanse your liver overnight, incorporating arugula into your diet can certainly be beneficial for overall health.
Eating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables along with lean protein sources like fish or chicken is key to supporting healthy organ function.
Equipment
- Oven
Ingredients
ROASTED PECANS
- 1/2 cup pecan halves raw
- 1 1/2 Tbsp coconut oil or sub vegan butter or olive oil // melted
- 1 Tbsp coconut sugar brown sugar, or cane sugar
- 1 pinch sea salt ground cinnamon and cayenne pepper
DRESSING
- 3 Tbsp olive oil divided
- 2 medium shallots thinly sliced
- 1 pinch sea salt
- 1 pinch pepper
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1-2 Tbsp maple syrup or sub other sweetener of choice
SALAD
- 1 1/2 cups strawberries hulled quartered, organic when possible
- 7 ounces arugula organic when possible
- 3 Tbsp hemp seeds or sub 1/4 cup cooked quinoa
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (176°C) and prepare a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. 8 minutes in the oven.
- Meanwhile, whisk together the coconut oil, coconut sugar, sea salt, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper in a small mixing bowl.
- Toss roasted nuts with spice mixture once they have been removed from the oven. Return to the baking sheet and toast for 4-7 minutes, or until aromatic and golden brown, being careful not to burn.
- Let it cool slightly after removing from the oven before sampling to assess the flavor. When required, season with extra salt or coconut sugar. Place aside to cool.
- Heat a small skillet over medium heat while the pecans roast. When heated, add 1/3 of the olive oil and the entire shallot. 3-4 minutes, or until tender and aromatic. Remove from the heat and leave to cool slightly.
- Combine shallot, balsamic vinegar, remaining olive oil, maple syrup, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper in a blender or food processor. Puree until totally smooth. Seasonings should be tasted and adjusted as needed.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the arugula, hemp seeds, strawberries, and the majority of the toasted nuts. Drizzle with 2-3 tablespoons dressing. Toss gently to mix.
- Garnish salad with the remaining pecans. Serve with extra dressing on the side. Serves two as an entrée and four as a side dish. Fresh is best.
Video
Nutrition
My blog is all about creating delicious meals with ingredients that are easy to find in your local grocery store. I’m passionate about making yummy meals that I can share with my friends and family.