We all have our favourite kitchen tool, fruit or vegetable, or spice / seasonings that we simply can not live without. Every grocery trip includes these items because they're must-haves in the kitch. Let's take a look at some of the things in my kitchen that are always available / I can't live without.

A good tomato sauce relies only on a few, quality ingredients, and that's why I always have a few cans of San Marzano tomatoes in my pantry. They're naturally a bit sweeter, less acidic, and have a thicker puree. They're a touch more expensive than your typical canned tomato, but when it comes to a good sauce, there's really no other option.

I remember the first time I tried brussel sprouts pretty vividly; I hated them. I thought they were stinky and if I remember right, they had been boiled without any love or attention. They scarred me so much so that it was probably 10 or 15 years before I tried to eat them again. With that being said, I regret letting those stinky boiled sprouts sour me to how amazing brussel sprouts are when they're cooked properly.

I am such a big fan of brussel sprouts now that I eat them once a week, usually roasted, with some kind of delicious garnish combination that enhances their wonder. As much as I love them for their flavour, they're also incredibly nutritious and full of vitamins & antioxidants. Let's take a peek at 5 reasons why you should be eating more brussel sprouts!

Brussel sprouts are considered a great source of fiber which as we all know, is crucial to our overall health. Getting enough fiber prevents constipation, promotes gut-health, and is actually linked to a lower risk of heart-disease & diabetes. Healthy gut bacteria is linked to our mood, contributes to anti-inflammation, and contributes to our bodies immunity. More fiber is good!

The beta-carotene found in brussel sprouts has been studied for its ability to protect our eyes. The carotene found in brussel sprouts can prevent oxidative stress and blue-light damage. 

The most important reason of all, they're simply delicious. They're so good steamed, roasted, baked, or even pan fried, you really can't go wrong. They're fabulous raw in a salad, baked with butter & seasonings, or roasted and finished with a little hard cheese and some balsamic. As long as you cook & season them properly, you're in for a delicious treat.