Calamari Salad

I looooove calamari! One of my favorite types of seafood, squid is low in calories and high in protein. It is a great addition to many dishes. Although most people only enjoy calamari deep fried, there are many healthy ways to enjoy it. This salad is a quick and simple way to throw together a flavorful and impressive dish.

The secret to tasty calamari is how long you cook it. Strangely enough, you can either cook it very briefly or for a long time. For example, cooking the calamari for longer than 60-90 seconds will result in it being too rubbery. However, if you  keep cooking it for 30 minutes, it will taste great. The key to this dish is to flash fry the calamari. Get your olive oil and garlic really really hot and then just throw it in for 60 seconds. As soon as the edges begin to get opaque, take it off and throw it in the fridge. This is essential. Since it's perfectly safe to eat raw, you don't have to worry about cooking it through. Just a flash will keep it tender and tasty.

In this dish, the calamari is tossed with a ton of fresh veggies and flavored with fresh lemon and herbs. It is simple, tasty and takes literally 10 minutes to put together. Throw the whole thing in the refrigerator for 15 minutes and you are good to go. The longer you let it sit, the more flavorful the salad will be.

Full recipe and photos after the jump!
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Wholesome Wednesday Links

• What is actually in that hot dog? - NY Times
• 10 easy ways to squeeze in exercise - HuffPo
• 25 100-calorie snack ideas! - WebMD

And finally... some discussion of Generation Y eating and cooking habits!

"Raised with unprecedented exposure - both real and virtual - to world cuisines and global concerns, this Millenial Generation now coming of age as young adults is redefining what it means to love food. These 20-somethings aren't just passionate about, say, Mexican cuisine or counting bad or good cholesterol. Their foodie lifestyle is one part cooking, one part social conscience."

 - From the Christian Science Monitor

Greek Orzo Salad

Whole wheat orzo salad is a great way to enjoy a light pasta and veggie dish that is perfect for a cookout or party. Served cold, this dish combines delicious Greek flavors with fresh, seasonal produce. Filled with fiber, whole wheat orzo is a filling and healthy way to enjoy pasta salad. This recipe makes 4 servings and actually tastes best if you leave it in the fridge for a bit before eating. Serve topped with feta or grilled shrimp or chicken.

Read more for the full recipe.
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