Christina Cooks: Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Whole Foods but Were Afraid to Ask

Cooking show host and author Christina Pirello is the woman who put the fun back into healthy cooking. In Christina Cooks she's responded to the hundreds of questions that her viewers and readers have asked her over the years—with lots of sound, sane advice, hints, tips, and techniques, plus loads of great recipes for scrumptious, healthy meals with a Mediterranean flair.

No Dairy ?

No problem! Unless you are a nursing infant, dairy is the least natural product you can choose. There are so many alternatives: soymilk, nut milks, or grain milks. And use olive oil or avocado oil instead of butter for the richness you crave. You'll adore the velvety Creamy Cauliflower Bisque with Pumpkin Seed Pesto or Biscuits D'Oro - and never miss the cream or buttermilk of the traditional recipes

Got the Breakfast Blahs?

Think outside the cereal box for creative breakfast alternatives. Try sweet vegetables with your porridge.. .just one of many ways to get your engine going in the AM. My Blueberry-Corn Griddle Cakes, Sweet Polenta, and Banana Nut Muffins will make you eager to get up in the morning.

How do I get my kids to eat healthy foods?

One meal at a time...Start with familiarbut in healthier versions. Every kid - and every kid at heart - will devour the Mini Pesto Pizza with Artichoke Hearts or Roasted Vegetable Pasta

Where's the beef - and protein?

Cows are vegetarian. They eat grass. I say skip the middleman (middlecow?) and go for grains, beans, and vegetables that are loaded with protein. Try the Braised Escarole with Apples, the Spectacular Pot Pie (with its secret source of protein), or Cannellini Beans with Wilted Bitter Greens.

Desserts will make me fat!

You can choose from a host of luscious desserts that will satisfy any sweet tooth— without the simple sugars and saturated fat that are the biggest villains. You don't have to resist the Upside-Down Apricot Tart or Giant Chocolate Cookies.

Go On! Live a little.

Christina