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Mediterranean Sunshine... As the workdays get longer and free time lessens, it's hard not to slip into the doldrums. A great way to forget the chill in the air is to reflect on the sunny Mediterranean region and the bounty of robust flavors it has to offer. What could be better than hearty Veal Stew With Mushrooms or a generous bowl of steaming Green Minestrone Soup? Studies show that the lack of sunshine can give people the blues so, while a two week trip to the Mediterranean may not be feasible, partaking of its healthful diet could be just the boost you need. Eat a balanced meal filled with fresh greens. Take advantage of the citrus fruits that are in season-such as clementines and tangerines. While you may crave sugars and carbohydrates on these blustery days, avoid overdoing it and opt for satisfying bean or lentil dishes. Freshly baked goods are always tempting after a romp in the snow, but you can cut down on some of the fat and cholesterol by baking with olive oil instead of butter. Following are some great tips for baking and roasting with olive oil as well as some delicious recipes for the warm and hearty comfort foods that make coming in from the cold even more inviting. While the sunny Mediterranean may not be footsteps away, the warmth and tastes of the beautiful region are at your fingertips-and the perfect way to heat up any day. Bake Better With Olive Oil Rich in monounsaturated fatty acids and cholesterol free, olive oil makes the perfect substitute for other fats. Use the following conversion chart for all your favorite baked goods when substituting Bertolli® Extra Light Taste Olive Oil for butter or margarine. Butter/Margarine Bertolli Extra Light Taste Olive Oil 1 tsp. 3/4 tsp. 1 tbsp. 2-1/4 tsp. 2 tbsp. 1-1/2 tbsp. 1/4 cup 3 tbsp. 1/3 cup 1/4 cup 1/2 cup 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp. 2/3 cup 1/2 cup 3/4 cup 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp. 1 cup 3/4 cup Savor Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables Now is the perfect time to eat your greens, potatoes and carrots. Kale, mustard greens and radicchio are terrific tossed with a light olive oil vinaigrette-and don't forget about sweet potatoes and squash. Get extra vitamin C by taking advantage of citrus fruits such as oranges and tangerines-tossed in a salad, served as dessert or baked in a delicious Almond and Orange Torta. Oven Roast for Richer Taste Warm up your kitchen by turning on your oven to roast vegetables. Marinate your favorite vegetables such as potatoes, onions, carrots-even Brussels sprouts or asparagus-with Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil, garlic, fresh pepper, thyme, sage and vinegar. Preheat a shallow baking sheet filled with a tablespoon of olive oil; then toss in the vegetables and roast for about an hour. Experiment with your favorite seasonal winter vegetables to complement all your cold-weather meals. Bertolli Recipe Book Offer: To receive a copy of Bertolli Celebrates the Mediterranean Menu, a $5.95 value, send a check or money order for $2 to cover postage and handling to Bertolli Nutrition Center, P.O. Box 2001, Grand Rapids, MI 55745-2001 CFP. Mediterranean Sunshine... Oven Roasted Red Bell Peppers and Eggplant Veal Stew With Mushrooms Pizza Bianca Arugula, Orange and Red Onion Salad Almond and Orange Torta Green Minestrone Soup SOURCE: Bertolli Olive Oil

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