Book Review: From the Olive Grove: Mediterranean Cooking with Olive Oil

From the Olive Grove: Mediterranean Cooking with Olive Oil by Helen Koutalianos

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


I would love to visit an olive grove!

This book was written by a family with such true passion and dedication to the craft of fine olive oil. The introduction was educational, entertaining and alluring, made me wish I could afford more decadent ingredients.

There are so many stylish and approachable recipes in this book, but not all in our dietary plan. I did note a couple recipes to try later and if I had a broader diet I am sure I would try more.



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Why hello again!

So I just realized I could post my Goodreads book reviews to Blogger kind of simply; the first is below.

I have been trying to read up on the diverse world of the Mediterranean Diet as it is very healthy for all of us, but especially for my partner (per science (Go Gophs!) and several of his doctors). We have the lofty goal of a no added salt, low carbohydrate, no animal fat, no red meat, low white meat, fatty fish, consistent vitamin K, low cholesterol, low sugar, high fiber, high protein, spicy, satisfying, and delicious diet.

Believe it or not, the Mediterranean region covers a lot of these bases, but I have to really read the recipes and plan to play around with herbs and peppers for flavor.


I thought I would share my search with others, first with the book reviews and later with recipe reviews. Book or other source suggestions are welcome!

Book Review: The Mediterranean Prescription: Meal Plans and Recipes to Help You Stay Slim and Healthy for the Rest of Your Life

The Mediterranean Prescription: Meal Plans and Recipes to Help You Stay Slim and Healthy for the Rest of Your Life by Angelo Acquista

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


This book was ok, I ended up being distracted by the author's love of his own cooking, which seems odd as he certainly must be a good cook to have a cookbook. Also, I turned out not liking the weight-loss solution tone of the book. I am not so much a diet person, but I am trying to pull and understand elements of this vast way of life to improve the quality and health of my cooking. Overall it was ok.



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