You ever wonder why Europeans are generally in good physical shape even though they are not a bunch of gym rats like us, the Americans? Yet, we are still the fattest people in the world with heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and others chronicle diseases. Even though many of us have taken the step to eat healthier, but we generally settle for broiled broccoli, steamed carrots, and grilled chicken breast. I have gone through the same tedious menu just like everyone of you who is devoted to look pretty…yes, I said “pretty”. However, the more experience I get from cooking and reading about nutrition, the more flexible I get with my cuisine choice. I have started trying new recipes originating from different countries. Not only can I stay healthy with my diet, but I can also satisfy my appetite by creating more than just bland mixed of steamed vegetable and grilled white meats.

Recently, I have become very interested in Greek food, mostly consisted of olives, onions, feta cheese (creamy, salty, and full of flavor), tomatoes, sea food, and bread (gotta have my carbohydrates). The Grilled Shrimp Greek Salad i made, picture shown above, provides sufficient amount of healthy fats from extra virgin olive oil, proteins from feta cheese and shrimp, and healthy carbohydrates ( about 10 grams of fibers) from vegetables and whole-wheat pita bread. Now you may wonder why that I consume rich and somewhat fatty feta cheese even though I monitor my body fat percentage strictly. I must emphasize the importance of proportion that many of us neglect in our diet here, even when eating healthy. Remember the old saying, “everything in moderation”? Trust me, I have grown to hate the tedious and bland way of cooking the is advertised in all kinds of health magazines. If you take up the responsibility and know when to say no (especially to chocolate mousse) to excess of sweets and fats, then you will be in a good shape. Plus, diary product is good for bone structure strengthening and calcium production, especially when women go through their periods or reach menopause.

so relax a little bit, add some spice to your diet by eating natural foods with rich flavors. You will dine happily and still look pretty.