Live to 100

 

Have you seen the new series on Netflix called Live to 100? It is fascinating! It follows Dan Buettner as he explores the five Blue Zones, those places where people have a greater likelihood of living long, productive lives. 

I've been reading his books and applying some of the principles for a few years now. I think there is a lot of wisdom here to digest.

So what do these Blue Zones have in common?

*They eat healthy plant-based diets. Lots of beans, leafy greens and vegetables, olive oil, nuts. They eat very little sugar and processed foods, and are very selective on meats and how often they are served.

*They get most of their exercise from doing simple tasks outdoors: walking, biking, gardening.

*They live in community and make social connections a priority.

*They have faith communities where they show up, often, and volunteer.

*They have a sense of purpose and mission every day.

Simple things. But they have a big impact.

I recently made this ratatouille. It was amazing! This is definitely a Blue Zone-type meal.

Here's my combination:

Olive oil, several tablespoons

1 sweet onion, chopped in bigger pieces.

2-3 cloves garlic, minced

1-2 eggplants, peeled and cubed (some cooks sweat the eggplant by putting in a colander, salting, and setting aside. I skipped this part, and it was fine)

1 red and 1 yellow bell pepper

1 zucchini, cubed

1 can diced or crushed tomatoes

A few tablespoons of tomato paste or tomato sauce

Red pepper flakes

Red wine

Fresh herbs, salt and pepper

Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Sauté onion, garlic and peppers in olive oil. Add a dash of red pepper flakes.  Add eggplant and cook for 5-10. Add zucchini, then add crushed tomatoes. Add fresh herbs and seasonings to taste. Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar (or both!) and more olive oil if needed. Cook until veggies are tender, then serve with a sprinkle of cheese.

You can serve this on top of rice, quinoa, couscous, or pasta. Or you can serve it stew-style, like I did. So good! This tastes like summer!

One of my favorite quotes from the documentary is when Dan is interviewing an old woman on the Greek isle of Ikaria. He asks her "What is the best tea to drink daily?"

She answers "Wine!"

Ha ha ha! Love that!

Salut!