Day: August 10, 2025

**Mediterranean-Inspired Pasta Salad with Fresh Vegetables and Herbs**

The Mediterranean diet is celebrated for its health benefits and vibrant flavors, drawing from the culinary traditions of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. A Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad is a delightful way to enjoy these flavors, combining fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and wholesome pasta. This dish is perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or a potluck contribution, offering a burst of freshness and nutrition.

**Ingredients:**

1. **Pasta:** Choose a sturdy pasta like fusilli, penne, or farfalle that can hold up to the dressing and mix-ins. Whole grain or gluten-free options can be used for added health benefits.

2. **Fresh Vegetables:**
– **Cherry Tomatoes:** Juicy and sweet, they add a pop of color and flavor.
– **Cucumbers:** Crisp and refreshing, they provide a nice contrast in texture.
– **Bell Peppers:** Red, yellow, or orange bell peppers add sweetness and crunch.
– **Red Onion:** Thinly sliced for a bit of sharpness.
– **Olives:** Kalamata or black olives offer a briny depth.
– **Artichoke Hearts:** Marinated artichokes add a tangy element.

3. **Herbs:**
– **Basil:** Fresh basil leaves for a sweet, peppery aroma.
– **Parsley:** Adds a fresh, slightly peppery flavor.
– **Oregano:** A staple in Mediterranean cooking, providing an earthy taste.

4. **Cheese:**
– **Feta Cheese:** Crumbled feta offers a creamy, tangy contrast.

5. **Dressing:**
– **Extra Virgin Olive Oil:** A high-quality olive oil is essential for authentic flavor.
– **Lemon Juice:** Freshly squeezed for brightness.
– **Garlic:** Minced garlic adds a pungent kick.
– **Salt and Pepper:** To taste.

**Preparation:**

1. **Cook the Pasta:** Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.

2. **Prepare the Vegetables:** While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Slice the olives and quarter the artichoke hearts.

3. **Make the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

4. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, olives, and artichoke hearts. Add the crumbled feta cheese and toss gently.

5. **Add Herbs and Dressing:** Tear the basil leaves and chop the parsley and oregano. Add them to the salad. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine, ensuring everything is well coated.

6. **Chill and Serve:** For best results, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. Serve cold or at room temperature.

**Nutritional Benefits:**

This Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The vegetables provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, while the olive oil offers healthy monounsaturated fats. Whole grain pasta adds fiber, and the herbs contribute additional nutrients and flavor without extra calories.

**Conclusion:**

A Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad is a versatile and nutritious dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a standout choice for any meal. Whether you’re looking to embrace a healthier diet or simply enjoy a delicious and satisfying dish, this pasta salad is sure to delight your taste buds and nourish your body.

Political compromise raises questions around feasibility implementation and EU’s innovation edge After nearly two years of negotiations, the Council of the EU has adopted its negotiating position on the proposed revision of the pharmaceutical legislation on 4 June 2025. This milestone reached under the Polish presidency follows intense debate and numerous concessions among Member States. […]

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### Warm Peach Crisp Yogurt Bowl Recipe

#### Introduction
A cozy peach crisp yogurt bowl is a tasty and healthful way to kick off your morning or savor as a treat. This recipe merges the sweetness of peaches with the smoothness of yogurt and the crunch from a homemade crisp topping. It’s a perfect mixture of tastes and textures that can be tailored to your preferences.

#### Ingredients

**For the Peach Filling:**
– 4 juicy peaches, pitted and sliced
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

**For the Crisp Topping:**
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for a gluten-free alternative)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for a dairy-free choice)

**For Serving:**
– 2 cups Greek yogurt (plain or flavored)
– Fresh mint leaves (optional, for decoration)

#### Instructions

**1. Prepare the Peach Filling:**
– In a medium bowl, mix the sliced peaches, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss until the peaches are evenly coated.
– Move the mixture to a small saucepan and cook over medium heat for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peaches are tender and the mixture is bubbly. Take off the heat and set aside.

**2. Make the Crisp Topping:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
– Add the melted butter and mix until the blend is crumbly and thoroughly combined.
– Spread the crisp topping uniformly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool a bit.

**3. Assemble the Yogurt Bowl:**
– In serving bowls, place a generous scoop of Greek yogurt as the base.
– Spoon the warm peach mixture over the yogurt.
– Finish with a handful of the crisp topping for extra texture and flavor.
– Decorate with fresh mint leaves if desired.

#### Tips for Customization
– **Fruit Variations:** Replace peaches with other fruits like berries, apples, or pears depending on what’s in season.
– **Yogurt Options:** Opt for flavored yogurt for an extra sweetness or plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free alternative.
– **Sweetness Level:** Modify the amount of brown sugar in the peach filling and crisp topping to match your taste.

#### Conclusion
This warm peach crisp yogurt bowl is not only delectable but also full of nutrients. It’s a flexible recipe that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Whether you seek a fulfilling breakfast, a delightful snack, or a nutritious dessert, this bowl is sure to satisfy. Relish the comforting flavors of warm peaches and the crunch from a homemade crisp topping, while reaping the benefits of the protein and probiotics in yogurt.