Tag: ideal

Have you ever been to Biella? This is why it is the ideal day trip – Italian Cuisine

A weekend out of town for Lombard and Piedmontese. To find the wonder of nature, the architectural works of ancient times and eat well. Without going too far from home

Are you looking for a trip out of town about an hour's drive from Milan, away from crowded places?
Exactly 100 km from the city center there is a territory in Piedmont that is still not very touristy, but that can offer a lot: the Biella area.
For lovers of nature, but also of culture and good food, it is possible to have a 360-degree experience, all within a short distance.
Here are some of the most beautiful places to visit for a perfect trip to the Biella area

Ricetto di Candelo

Arriving in these areas we advise you to make a stop in Candelo, a small town on the outskirts of Biella, which protects inside a medieval jewel: Il Ricetto di Candelo. A rare example of a perfectly preserved village from the 14th century, as it was never used for residential purposes, but as a refuge in case of attack. In autumn, local wineries meet here for an event dedicated to wine and it is therefore the best time to experience it, while in spring it is dressed in thousands of varieties of flowers for the Candelo in Fiore event.

Baraggia

From the walls of Ricetto di Candelo you can see the Baraggia plateau in the distance. Go there to find yourself in a unique landscape, which is so reminiscent of the African savannah. A clearing of heather and tall yellow blades of grass surrounded by oak woods and with mountains in the background. Take some time for a rejuvenating walk.

Burcina Park

An entire hill with a unique botanical park in the world, which overlooks the Biella panorama at 360 degrees, from the Pre-Alps to the plain. Every season here is a riot of colors thanks to the thousands of botanical species that have been planted here since the mid-nineteenth century by the Piacenza family, a pioneer of the ancient wool industry that owned these lands, in particular by Mr. Felice Piacenza. He imported plants and trees from all over the world to create his dream park. He hired no architects or landscape architects, and he created this incredible botanical heritage himself! A walk here is recommended, especially in autumn to see amazing foliage, or in spring to see the fully flowered "rhododendron basin". Inside the park, donated to the municipality of Biella in 1934, there are also two delicious dining options.

Biella Piazzo

The city of Biella has a historic center divided into two points: one in the plain, where the main commercial activities are located, the Gothic cathedral and the Romanesque baptistery, and one in the so-called "Piazzo", the oldest area of the city, dating back to medieval.
The Piazzo stands on a hill and can be reached by funicular. Its Piazza Cisterna is animated by the outdoor tables of bars and restaurants and becomes the evening meeting point, in a truly suggestive setting of arcades and ancient houses.

Sanctuary of Oropa

A must at least once in your life is to see the sanctuary of the Sacro Monte di Oropa, dedicated to the Black Madonna, a pilgrimage destination for centuries. Oropa is above all known for its spectacular and mammoth dome nestled between the Biella Pre-Alps, but it is also famous for another work of art … polenta concia! The typical Biellese dish par excellence which consists of a polenta creamed with butter and local cheeses, which becomes so creamy and stringy… to be eaten strictly with a spoon.

Bessa

Since the times of the ancient Romans, here there was literally a gold mine, the piles of stones due to extraction dating back to between the 2nd and 1st centuries BC, with traces of even earlier frequentations represented by rock carvings on boulders erratic. Here every year the best gold prospectors arrive from all over the world to compete in the Italian Championship.

The Cervo Valley

The Cervo Valley was a popular summer holiday destination until the 1960s. Here, in fact, people came for the cool climate given by the altitude and the Cervo stream. Some of the villages are really small jewels, such as Campiglia Cervo, Piedicavallo or Rosazza, famous for being a "mystical" city, in its rich and decorated houses you can recognize different Masonic symbols.

Oasis Zegna

Above the wool district of Trivero, this area offers a lot: from the beautiful "panoramic Zegna" road that leads to the ski slopes of Bielmonte to the marked trails for walking, mountain biking or snowshoeing in winter in the Bocchetto area. Sessera. In autumn, days dedicated to the discovery of foliage are also organized.
Here nature is the protagonist, you are spoiled for choice!

Farro: because it is the ideal cereal for those who play sports – Italian Cuisine

This ancient grain has numerous benefits for figure and health. Rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, it is an excellent ally for losing weight and optimizing training results

The spelled, in particular the integral one, is a real natural supplement for those who play sports. This ancient grain, thanks to the richness of micro and macronutrients, has a toning action. It helps the body during intense physical efforts such as training to deal with stress and fatigue with an extra gear. One of its strengths is versatility. Spelled flakes, for example, mixed with milk or yogurt, oilseeds and seasonal fruit for breakfast are perfect for making super-energetic porridge and muesli. At lunch, its grains paired with legumes (or eggs, fish or meat), seasonal vegetables and extra virgin olive oil are perfect for preparing quick and practical unique dishes to be consumed before training. "Thanks to the richness of fiber and complex carbohydrates, they help to keep appetite under control and not to make the muscles lack the" fuel "essential to face training", he explains Nicoletta Bocchino, nutritionist biologist. Whole spelled pasta is also excellent for sports enthusiasts, especially if you go to the gym in the early afternoon. «Although from a caloric point of view it is similar to that of wheat (100 grams provides about 350 calories), it is more digestible. It therefore allows you to face light training, but with the right energy . says the expert, who here explains why spelled is the ideal cereal for sports enthusiasts.

Counteracts the drop in energy

"Whole spelled, in flakes, puffed or in the form of derivatives, including bread, has the great advantage of providing energy to the body in a slow way. In fact, it has a lower glycemic index than that of wheat and allows better modulation of insulin secretion to limit sudden energy drops during training, "says nutritionist Nicoletta Bocchino. "The merit is of the complex carbohydrates and fiber of which it is a source that ensure energy and satiety for a long time".

Combats fatigue

Spelled provides a series of precious vitamins to combat the sense of fatigue during and after the workout. It provides B vitamins. «Contains vitamin B2 and vitamin B3, which play a fundamental role in the energy metabolism of fats, sugars and proteins. This cereal is also a source of tryptophan, a precursor of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that help you feel energized during training. Furthermore, its grains combined in the same meal with foods that provide vitamin C (spinach, lettuce, rocket, kiwi, citrus fruits) provide iron that is more easily assimilated by the body, useful for less fatigue, "says the expert.

Promotes muscle and bone health

Spelled provides methionine, an essential amino acid. «Combined with legumes (chickpeas, lentils, beans, peas) in the same meal, it provides all the essential amino acids involved in the development and maintenance of muscles. In addition, it promotes the formation of proteins, which are essential for post-workout muscle recovery. Spelled is also a good source of calcium, a bone-healthy mineral. It strengthens the skeleton and reduces the risk of suffering joint pain and osteoporosis ", says the expert.

Helps stay away from cramps

Spelled is rich in vitamins that have an antioxidant action. "This cereal in particular provides good amounts of vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E which act as antioxidants for the control of free radicals that form during intense efforts, reducing inflammatory states during physical activity", says nutritionist Nicoletta Mouthpiece. Finally, its grains are an extraordinary source of magnesium. "This mineral promotes the correct functioning of the circulatory system and provides the muscles with an important help, counteracting the cramps that can occur during and after training".

Pistachios are the ideal quarantined snack: 6 recipes – Italian Cuisine

They ensure fiber, good fats and healthy proteins. They are perfect for recharging energy and good mood during breaks from study, work or after the workout. Here because

Pistachios are a treasure trove of minerals, vitamins and other precious substances for the proper functioning of the body. Consumed in the right quantities, they are the ideal snack to recharge your energy. Thanks to their nutritional properties, they help you feel more sprint from a physical and mental point of view. Let's see in detail what benefits they have and how to use them to prepare delicious snacks with the advice of American Pistachio Growers, non-profit association that unites American pistachio growers, ed Ermina Ebner, nutritionist biologist and food educator.

They are good for muscles

Exercising and following a complete, healthy and balanced diet is essential for staying healthy and fit. American pistachios are the ideal snack for those who train. Within 20-30 minutes from the end of the training it is necessary to consume a meal or snack, digestible and at the same time complete with all the nutrients (water, carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals) in the right proportions. American toasted pistachios are perfect for recovery. They supply proteins complete with all 9 essential amino acids in adequate quantities. Among these, the leucine stands out. In a portion of about 30 grams they contain 475 mg. The advantages? Leucine is digested very quickly and provides a good stimulus for muscle protein synthesis.

They fight physical and mental fatigue

Pistachios are the ideal ingredient to regain concentration during breaks from work or study or to recharge energy after physical activity. They are in fact a good source of minerals. Among these, calcium, magnesium and potassium stand out which favor physical and mental recovery. They are also a source of B vitamins, valuable for fighting fatigue and feeling more snappy and vital.

They favor a good mood

Pistachios contain a booster of nutrients that support the tone. They are in fact a good source of tryptophan, an essential amino acid precursor of serotonin, the hormone that helps you feel more serene and relaxed. They are also a source of B vitamins, involved in the production of well-being neurotransmitters. Finally, they contain tyrosine, an essential amino acid that promotes the production of dopamine, also known as the motivation hormone, which helps you feel satisfied and full of desire to do.

6 delicious recipes for snacks based on American pistachios

Delicious smoothie to recharge after yoga

Recipe for 4 people. Leave 4 sachets of green tea to infuse in 500 ml of boiling water for about 5 minutes. Let them cool down. Shell and roughly chop a cup of American pistachios. Wash, peel and cut into small and regular pieces 1 ripe mango, 1 kiwi and 3/4 cup sliced pineapple. Add all the ingredients in the mixer and blend everything until a smooth and homogeneous mixture is obtained. Pour into 4 glasses and garnish with kiwi or pineapple slices.

Pistachio and sunflower seed crackers for a quick break

In a bowl mix together 200 grams of flour type 0 and 50 grams of corn flour. Finely chop 15 grams of pistachios together with 5 grams of sunflower seeds. Add the mince to the flours and season with a teaspoon of paprika, black pepper and the peel of half an untreated lemon. Add two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and mix well with a wooden spoon. Finally add half a glass of water, mixing everything first with a spoon and then with your hands. After 5 minutes the dough, worked both inside the bowl and on the work surface, will be homogeneous and ready to be rolled up in the food film and placed in the refrigerator for at least an hour. Preheat the oven to 180 ° C, roll out the dough and cut it using a cookie cutter of the desired shape. Cook the crackers for about 10-12 minutes at 180 ° C.

Ricotta, pistachio and turkey breast meatballs for the post-workout aperitif

Coarsely chop 60 grams of American pistachios. Put 100 grams of turkey breast slices in a mixer together 120 grams of ricotta and blend until soft. Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Remove two slices of crust bread and blend with an egg, 1 sprig of thyme and 2-3 sage leaves. Mix the two compounds, add 30 grams of Parmesan cheese, a pinch of salt, pepper and nutmeg and a little breadcrumbs to combine. With wet hands form the meatballs and pass them in the chopped American pistachios. Place them on a baking tray covered with parchment paper. Take a round of oil and bake at 200 ° C for about 20 minutes.

Pistachio and cheese bread to strengthen muscles and bones of the over

Coarsely chop 70 grams of American pistachios. In a bowl mix 150 grams of 00 flour and 100 grams of whole wheat flour. Create a recess in the center and pour 6 grams of brewer's yeast and 150 grams of warm water into it. Knead the dough by absorbing all the flour gradually. Add the chopped pistachios and 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Knead vigorously until a soft and homogeneous dough is obtained. Put the bread dough to rise in a bowl, covering with cling film or a cloth for at least 2 hours. Once leavened, take the dough and form a loaf. Place the loaf on a baking tray covered with paper and let the bread rise for another hour. With a smooth blade knife, make transverse cuts on the surface of the bread, brush with oil and bake in a preheated oven at 200 ° C. Cook for about 30/35 minutes, then cut the pistachio bread into slices and serve together with 30 grams of Parmesan cheese.

Pistachios for children's snack after an hour of movement

For 8 pistachios equal to 8 portions. Prepare the American pistachio flour. Put the pistachios in the freezer the day before or a few hours before proceeding with the preparation. Add corn or rice starch or potato starch to the blender. One teaspoon for every 200 grams of pistachios is enough. Blend the pistachios a little at a time until a fairly fine powder is obtained. Proceed several times. Then, shell the number of toasted pistachios until about 100 grams. Put them in a blender and add half a teaspoon of starch (corn, rice, potato starch). In a bowl, whisk the eggs with the sugar until they are creamy and frothy. Add a generous spoonful of 00 flour, pistachio flour and starch slowly sifted, alternating them with 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil to be poured flush. Mix well with the help of whips or an electric mixer. Finally add half a sachet of baking powder and a little pistachio grain. Cover a 10 cm cake mold with parchment paper and pour the dough. Bake at 180 degrees for about 30-40 minutes. Proceed with the toothpick test after 30 minutes to check the cooking. If the toothpick comes out damp, the cake will have to be cooked a little more, otherwise the oven can be turned off. Leave to cool for 5 minutes in the oven with the door open, then remove it from the oven and let it cool down well before gently removing it from the mold. Divide into 4 portions. Melt a square of dark chocolate in each bain marie (or in the microwave) for each slice and the tasty snack is ready to be enjoyed slowly.

Pistachio yoghurt cake for post workout recovery

In a food processor chop 30 grams of pistachios, add 200 ml of partially skimmed milk or vegetable drink of oats or rice and then 250 grams of low-fat white yogurt or soy. Mix well. First add 100 grams of brown sugar, then 350 grams of whole wheat flour and 30 grams of starch, sifting them. Add 5 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil flush and lastly a packet of vanilla yeast. Mix very well to obtain a creamy and homogeneous, but dense dough. At the end add another 30 grams of whole pistachios, mixing the dough gently with a spoon only so as not to crumble them. Transfer to a 24-26 cm diameter cake pan covered with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees centigrade for about 30 minutes. Let cool before removing the cake from the mold. Cut it into slices and add the jam or fruit jam.