Pour 350g of pasta bows into a large saucepan full of fresh water and place over a medium/high heat. Chop 2 courgettes up into small pieces and add to the pasta. Break up 1 head of broccoli up into small florets and place in the saucepan. Peel and chop 1 carrot up into small thin pieces and add to the pasta. Cook for approximately 12-15 minutes or according to the instructions on the packet. Add 85g of frozen peas to the ingredients 3-4 minutes before you remove the saucepan from the heat. Drain the pasta and the vegetables in a colander. Pour 1 tin of chopped tomatoes into a large saucepan and place over a medium heat. Add 4 tablespoons of cream cheese to the tomatoes and stir until all of the cream cheese has melted. Pour in the pasta and vegetables and stir well. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Divide the ingredients up and serve in a bowl or on a plate. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top of each of the pasta dishes and serve.
I haven’t always been a fan of olive oil, it is something that I grew to love over time with much thanks and persistence from others. Italian food is one of my favourite types of cuisine, and I have been cooking Italian food since I was a young girl. Olive oil has always been around me and a main ingredient for various recipes of mine. Olive oil is a rich in health benefits, when both consumed and used on the hair and skin.
For centuries, olive oil has been celebrated as nature’s liquid gold, revered for its myriad of health and beauty benefits. Derived from the fruit of the olive tree, this ancient elixir is not only a staple in Mediterranean cuisine but also a cherished ingredient in skincare and wellness rituals around the world. Join me as we delve into the rich tapestry of benefits that olive oil offers for both beauty and health.
Nourishing Skin Elixir
Olive oil is a powerhouse of antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids that work wonders for the skin. Rich in vitamin E, it helps to protect the skin from free radical damage, keeping it youthful and radiant. It’s emollient properties make it an excellent moisturiser, deeply hydrating the skin without clogging pores. Whether it is being used as a standalone facial oil, added to bathwater for a luxurious soak, or incorporated into DIY skincare recipes, olive oil leaves the skin soft, supple, and glowing with health.
Natural Hair Care Wonder
Say goodbye to dull, dry hair and hello to luscious locks with the help of olive oil. This versatile oil is a godsend for hair care, thanks to it’s nourishing properties and ability to promote healthy hair growth. Packed with vitamins A and E, olive oil helps to strengthen hair follicles, reduce split ends, and impart a glossy shine. Whether used as a pre-shampoo treatment, a leave-in conditioner, or an ingredient in homemade hair masks, olive oil revitalises and restores hair to its natural beauty.
Heart-Healthy Elixir
In addition to its beauty benefits, olive oil is also celebrated for its numerous health benefits, particularly for heart health. Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, olive oil helps to lower LDL cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and protect against heart disease. Its anti-inflammatory properties also make it beneficial for conditions such as arthritis and joint pain. Incorporating olive oil into your diet as a cooking oil, salad dressing, or drizzle over dishes not only adds a delicious flavour but also promotes overall health and well-being.
Aids Digestion and Weight Management
Olive oil is not only good for your heart but also for your digestive system. It aids in the absorption of nutrients, supports healthy digestion, and helps to regulate bowel movements. Additionally, the healthy fats in olive oil promote satiety and keep you feeling full for longer, making it a valuable ally in weight management and maintaining a healthy weight.
From nourishing the skin and revitalising hair to promoting heart health and aiding digestion, the benefits of olive oil are truly remarkable. Whether used topically as a skincare elixir or ingested as a dietary supplement, this ancient treasure offers a wealth of beauty and health benefits that have stood the test of time. So, why not incorporate a dose of liquid gold into your daily routine and experience the transformative power of olive oil for yourself?
What is the best gift to show dad, step dads, granddad’s how much we love them? Some men would be happy with breakfast in bed and a good old cup of tea, Yorkshire tea that is! Other men might be committed to intermittent fasting and prefer not to eat anything until 11/12pm. What works for one, might not work well for another.
I think one think we can all agree on though, is Father’s day is a great time to buy gifts for dad’s summer wardrobe, or summer garden due to the date. This summer father’s day falls on Sunday 18th June.
I am guessing that there are lot of dad’s and granddad’s out there with holiday’s and mini breaks booked over the summer holidays. Even if they don’t, so long as the weather is good this summer, how much does dad/granddad love being outside in the garden and enjoying some food and drink?
My fathers day gift guide is inspired by the summer holiday’s and thinking about what all of the men would enjoy doing this summer.
No one wants to see dad or granddad sweltering outside in the heat wearing a jumper or long sleeve shirts. Nor does anyone want to see him in that dodgy cartoon T-shirt that he’s been wearing in the garden for that past two/three decades. This beautiful cotton colour block polo shirt from Marks and Spencer’s makes a beautiful gift. Suitable to wear for both evening and day, at £38.00.
Autograph – Pure Supima® Cotton Colour Block Polo Shirt from Marks & Spencer’s £38