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February is not only the month of love; it's also National Cancer Prevention Month. Cancer takes the lives of about 10 million people annually [1], so learning and spreading awareness about this deadly disease is crucial. At the start of 2024, let’s make sure our health is our priority by learning more about and spreading relevant information about preventing cancer through great food and healthy ingredients!
At Borges, we believe in promoting a healthy lifestyle, and what better way to contribute than by promoting our latest product - the Borges Sunflower and Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) blended oil? It’s a healthy new addition to the kitchen that can help us prepare health-conscious meals and limit the risk of lifestyle diseases such as cancer.
Photo: [LINK]
Two Powerhouse Oils
Borges Sunflower and EVOO blended oil is a perfect combination of two powerhouse oils known for their health benefits. Sunflower oil is rich in vitamin E and low in saturated fats, while EVOO is packed with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
The neutral profile of sunflower oil helps maintain the stability of the blend during cooking, while the robust flavor of extra virgin olive oil adds depth and character to dishes.
Additionally, the combination provides a healthier cooking alternative by preserving the heart-healthy properties of olive oil while benefiting from the practical aspects of sunflower oil.
Cancer-Preventive Properties [2] [3]
Studies have suggested that the components found in both sunflower and olive oil have cancer-fighting properties. The antioxidants, such as polyphenols in EVOO and vitamin E in sunflower oil, are known for their ability to neutralise free radicals in the body that damage cells, potentially reducing the risk of cancer development.
Extra virgin olive oil has a well-established reputation for reducing the risk of cancer-related mortality. A study conducted by Harvard University in 2022 revealed that individuals who include a minimum of 1.5 teaspoons of olive oil in their daily diet lower their chances of dying from cancer by 17%.
This blend is versatile, suitable for various culinary applications, including sautéing, frying, and salad dressings. It not only enhances the overall taste of dishes but also promotes a balance of essential nutrients, making it a preferred choice for those seeking both flavor and health-conscious cooking.
Explore these oils today with our recipes below to experience a double dose of health!
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad [4]
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INGREDIENTS:
- 1 ½ cups dry quinoa
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ cup Borges Sunflower and Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 tbsp Borges Balsamic Vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, pressed
- ½ teaspoon dry basil, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme, crushed between your fingers
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cups arugula
- 1 15 ounce can garbanzo beans, drained
- 1 small jar roasted red bell peppers, drained and chopped
- ¼ cup Borges Black Pitted Olives, roughly chopped
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Cook the quinoa according to package directions with ½ teaspoon salt added to the water. Cool completely.
- Mix together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, pressed garlic, basil and thyme. Whisk until well combined. Season with salt and ground black pepper and set aside.
- To a large serving bowl, add the quinoa, arugula, garbanzo beans, roasted red peppers, black olives, and feta cheese.
- Drizzle with the dressing and garnish with basil. Season to taste. Serve at room temperature.
Herb-Infused Grilled Chicken [5]
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INGREDIENTS:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- zest of 1 lemon
- juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup Borges Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp Borges Sunflower and Extra Virgin Olive Oil for sauteing
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Create the marinade by mixing the lemon juice, zest, 1/2 cup of olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a non-reactive glass dish, or plastic ziptop bag, and pour the marinade over the chicken. Make sure to evenly coat the chicken, then cover and refrigerate for 2 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (or about 204°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade and wipe off the excess. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sear the chicken breasts for 2 minutes on each side, until they're golden brown.
- Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with a baking rack, and roast at 400°F for 20-30 minutes depending on the thickness of the chicken breast, or until the internal temperature reads 165°F (or about 75°C).
As we celebrate National Cancer Prevention Month, let’s revel in the goodness of a healthy lifestyle. Try out these flavorful nutritious dishes and charge yourself up with the health-boosting benefits of Borges Sunflower and EVOO blended oil. With just a few drops of this blend, you not only enhance the flavors of your dishes but also reduce the risk of cancer.
References:
[1] https://ourworldindata.org/cancer#
[2] https://www.aboutoliveoil.org/olive-oil-and-cancer
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3502042/
[4] https://www.foodiecrush.com/mediterranean-quinoa-salad/
[5] https://www.delishdlites.com/ingredients/chicken-recipes/garlic-lemon-thyme-roasted-chicken-breasts/