by Susan Oswald

Created on: June 30, 2007

Eating foods that you love and at the same time cutting fat seems impossible. When we sit down to eat we not only want a visual experience but a tasteful one. We think in order to enjoy foods they must be fried or smothered in heavy rich sauce. We become so accustom to eating this way we never realize what good eating can be. One ingredient can not only change how you look at food but can add to your overall health.

Olive oil is the key to good and healthy cooking. Every time you prepare food simplicity is the key. You can make incredible pasta dishes with crunchy fresh vegetables and toss with a light coating of olive oil. Then season well. This will add to the flavor and adhere to each piece of the pasta. You will feel satisfied and your body will thank you. Another great cooking idea is grilling an assortment of vegetables. My favorite is a head of fresh romaine lettuce washed and left in its natural bunch. Place it on the grill. With a basting brush lightly coat the leaves with olive oil. Salt and pepper to taste. Rotate the head of lettuce on each side. Do this for approximately five minutes. When the grill marks appear remove the head of lettuce from the grill. Pull off each leaf and arrange on salad plates. Top with fresh shrimp and Parmesan cheese. Drizzle with a light dressing made with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. You might be surprised at what a great dressing recipe you can create.

The taste of olive oil is distinctive. It is light and not heavy. Combined with many different fresh or dry seasonings the flavor will be impressive. You will be able to taste the flavor of the food itself. Each time you go to use a heavy fat put olive oil in its place. Soon it will become the one ingredient you can't do without.Using olive oil is a much healthier replacement for other fats. Not only will you cut your calories but your body will thank you too. You will have the best of both worlds ,great cuisine and a healthy body.

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