We hope you enjoy these Cut The Crap Costa Rica Kitchen Recipes and information on local fruits and vegetables. We have provided descriptions and nutrition information for produce that is common in Costa Rica and other Central American countries. These foods are generally grown in-country which reduces their costs.
Although we are not nutrition experts or doctors, we have consulted these experts and have used our own experience to form the basis for the health benefits of most dishes. The majority of recipes and foods are healthy choices; however, we have added a few "not so healthy" choices to satisfy those occasional cravings.
Costa Rica Kitchen Recipes, try something new. Remove things you don't need. Cook what is local. And, stay in budget.
Watermelon – SandiaBy Steve PageIt is composed of approximately 92% water, and is a good source of Vitamin A, C, and B6. You can find it throughout Central America and can be bought in most stores year-round in Costa Rica. We love to buy watermelon - sandia from fruit stands and the back of local farmers’ trucks and (read more...)Gluten Free- Fried Spaghetti with Sour Cream SauceBy Nikki PageLooking for a delicious fried spaghetti recipe with creamy cream sauce? You just found it. Packed with vegetables to add color, flavor, and nutrients, the creamy sauce and soft pasta will satisfy your cravings.Pasta & Vegetables In White SauceBy Nikki PagePasta and Vegetables in White Sauce is a delicious dish that incorporates some vegetables that are frequently overlooked. Eggplant and zucchini add flavor and nutrients to this dish along with splashes of color. The bright vegetables and creamy sauce will have your mouth watering anticipating the delicious flavors to come.
Tip: For a gluten-free option, simply replace the standard pasta with a gluten-free variety and cook as instructed.
Fried SpaghettiBy Nikki PageIf you are looking for a light meal that really hits the spot, make sure you try this Fried Spaghetti. It works great for a quick easy dinner or lunch. It is also a great alternative to standard boiled noodles with sauces. The fried spaghetti noodles offer a different texture and the fresh tomatoes and onions top it off nicely, to complete the dish. Fried Egg SandwichBy Taya PageEgg sandwiches are a quick and easy way to prepare a hot lunch. These delicious delights are satiating and although they are fried, they are still fairly nutritious.
Note: Although we prefer white bread, whole grain bread is a healthier choice. There are several bakeries and many supermercado that offer a wide selection of bread options. For a little variety, you can also substitute a tortilla for the bread.
Mamón Chino – RambutanBy Steve PageWould you eat that weird looking fruit? We would! Mamón Chinos are DELICIOUS!
Mamón Chinos are also known as Rambutan. These red hairy treats are the perfect snack for a day at the beach, or to throw in your backpack for a hike in the jungle. (read more...)PineappleBy Steve PageCosta Rica has the sweetest and best-tasting pineapple that we have ever eaten! This amazing fruit is so juicy and delicious that it makes the perfect refreshing snack on a hot day. We make it a point to keep cut pineapple in our refrigerator, so we have it ready to eat. Pineapple is (read more...)Coconut MeatBy Steve PagePeople frequently get coconuts or pipas on the beach to drink the water but then throw the rest away. Unfortunately, they are missing some of the best parts of the coconut, the meat. Coconut meat is packed with a ton of nutrients and healthy fats.
This tropical delight is high in ascorbic acid, B vitamins, and proteins. In addition, it helps to restore oxidative tissue damage and is a source of healthy fats, proteins, and various vitamins and minerals. Coconut meat contains 17 amino acids out of the 20 amino acids needed for optimal protein formation–meaning it is great for building muscle mass. Do some research and soon you will see that the water is just the icing on the cake.
The easiest way to access the meat in the coconut is with a machete or large knife. A few solid whacks and you'll soon be looking into the white bliss of tasty nutrition. Use a spoon to easily separate the meat from the shell. Then you can easily use a knife to cut the coconut into bite-size pieces.
We generally eat coconut meat raw. We have tried toasting it and baking it too, but usually, we don't want to wait to cook it. It is great to eat it fresh right out of the shell.
Health benefits of Coconut Meat:
1. Medium Chain Fatty Acids - are broken down much faster than long chain fatty acids.
2. Does Not Contribute To High Cholesterol - unlike long chain fatty acids do.
3. Boosts the Immune System - through antioxidants and the trace mineral manganese.
4. Reduces Inflammation - due to antioxidants.
5. Healthy Digestion - due to high fiber content.
6. Supports the Nervous Systems - from high amounts of trace mineral manganese.
7. Promotes Heart and Cell Health - with minerals potassium and copper.MangoBy Steve PageMangoes are a great snack and a perfect addition to fruit salads, smoothies, and desserts. This tropical fruit is packed with nutrients and has a delicious flavor. The bright yellow meat brings vibrancy to any plate. Its sweet tropical taste always brings thoughts of warm sunshine and (read more...)