Olive oil has long been a staple in Mediterranean diets and is thought to have cancer inhibiting properties, although the Mediterranean diet also includes many nutrient rich fresh fruits and vegetables as well.
Also used extensively and associated with the region is garlic,especially Italian cooking , which I adore.
To some, healthy and delicious are mutually exclusive, but just try this recipe using two of the mainstays in Mediterranean cooking and you may change your mind.Try this as an appetizer or if you're like me, accompany with some cheese,get some Italian crusty bread, and your favorite wine(in moderation of course) and call it a meal!
Roasted Garlic:
If you're doing just a small amount, use your smallest or individual casserole, set your oven to 400 degrees and wash, remove husks and the bottom stem from the garlic head. Place in baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Cover with lid or aluminium foil and bake for 40-60 min. If you're doing larger quantities, muffin tins work great as each head gets it's own space. When done, remove and cool. Each clove becomes a little tube for squeezing the delicious and healthful spread on bread or crackers. I also like to make a dipping sauce from olive oil and red peppers, basil and oregano.For heart healthy foods that lower cholesterol click here.
