February is all about romance, and who’s the most romantic
group of people on earth, possibly even the universe? It’s Italians!
Giacomo Girolamo Casanova de Seingalt was an Italian from
the Veneto region . He listed
adventurer, author and librarian on his resume and was the most famous lover of
all time. If you’re not sure, ask any
Italian the following question: “Besides yourself…who is the greatest lover of
all time?” The answer - “Casanova”.
Casanova was said to consume several dozen oysters each morning
for breakfast. He reported spectacular and scandalous benefits. He called them “the nectar of the gods”, among
other things we won’t mention here. This is a family newspaper, after all.
There no concrete data to reinforce Casanova’s belief that
his breakfast increased his libido.
However, there are many studies that show that oysters are very beneficial
to a healthy lifestyle. My personal
studies have found oysters are delicious and I have concluded they should be
enjoyed as often as possible.
Oysters have great nutritional value. They’re low in fat and
calories (around 10 calories per raw oyster) and packed with healthy minerals. Four
or five medium size oysters supply the recommended daily allowance of iron,
copper, iodine, magnesium, calcium, zinc, manganese and phosphorus. And did I
mention the benefits to your taste buds.
In he spirit of romance, health and Casanova enjoy this
simple recipe and a toast con il tuo
amore.
“Oysters with Prosecco and Pink Peppercorn
Sauce”
Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup diced shallot (about 3
medium)
- 1/4 cup white balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp. freshly ground pink
peppercorns
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1/2 cup Prosecco – with the remaining bubbly share a toast
with con il tuo amore
- 12 oysters on the half shell
Directions:
In a small bowl,
combine the shallot and vinegar and let stand for 10 minutes. Add the ground
pink peppercorns, salt and Prosecco and stir to combine. Pour over Oysters.
