Trying New Foods
Are you a food risk taker? Do you like trying something new? I’m going to put myself into the ‘yes’ column on these questions and I’m going to nudge you to do the same. Making the most of new food experiences, including what you eat, opens up new flavors, textures, and top-notch nutrition!
Trying New Seafood
Seafood in general has a lot going for it. Salmon and shrimp are the top 2 choices of seafood for Americans. Did you know? Think about how many times you’ve enjoyed these two favorites and how many times you’ve cooked them. Probably quite a few. Squid, on the other hand, may be a seafood choice that you’ve rarely cooked or never even considered. Squid is actually a powerful source of protein with 13 grams in an average, 3 ounce serving. Along with the protein, the same serving has minimal carbs, minimal fat, minimal sodium, and only about 80 calories, and the bonus is nearly 20% of the daily value of vitamin B12.
Recipe for Squid Stew
To make a new or, to some people, weird food like squid something you want to try, add it to foods and flavors you already like. The Squid Stew Recipe here combines many favorite Mediterranean ingredients and flavors with simple, frozen squid rings that add a seafood flair.
Serves 4-6
- 1/4 cup Extra virgin olive oil
- 2 Onions, chopped
- 4-6 cloves Garlic, left whole
- 1 or 1-1/2 pound Squid, fresh or frozen – I buy a bag of frozen squid rings at the grocery store
- 1 cup White wine – Or, feel free to substitute broth
- 1 can, 28 ounces Diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 Eggplant, skin on, diced into small cubes
- 1 cup Frozen peas
- Salt & Fresh ground pepper to taste
- 1 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup Fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- Heat oil in large skillet. Add chopped onions and saute lightly, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add garlic cloves and saute 1 minute longer.
- Add squid and saute while stirring, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add wine (or broth), tomatoes, diced eggplant, frozen peas, salt, pepper, parsley and basil (optional).
- Stir everything together and cook at a simmer over medium low heat for about 20 minutes.
Trying New Foods is Fun!
Variety is truly the ‘spice of life’ and this expression definitely applies to trying new foods. Push yourself. Cook with your friends or family. Have a party. All of these are great opportunities to stretch yourself and to eat nutritiously. Squid stew may become your new favorite recipe but how will you know if you never try it? Join me on facebook for daily tips about all kinds of foods, or get my free report called 3 Tasty Menus for Busy Families and Everyone.
What new seafood will you try?