Leo (July 23 to August 22) rules the fifth house of the zodiac, the house of pleasure, creativity and romance. Need I say more? Ruled by the Sun, Leo is the most flamboyant and grandiose sign of the zodiac. The Lion loves to entertain, and won't spare any expense to lavish his guests with the best that money can buy. Born during the season when the pleasures of earth are ripening and ready to be enjoyed, Leos love nothing better than to surround themselves with friends and family, be the center of attention, and enjoy!
Caviar -- Caviar is the lightly salted egg (fish roe) of sturgeons that have been allowed to mature. According to a Harvard study, "the sturgeon, the only fish whose roe was ruled by the FDA as caviar, is prehistoric and has been around for 250 million years. References to caviar in literature and art date back almost as far as the sturgeon itself." The best caviar available is Beluga and comes from the Caspian Sea, making Russia and Iran the leaders in production. Ijust n ancient times it was reserved for royalty. Although high in cholesterol, one serving of caviar is loaded with vitamins A, B and E. This decadent appetizer was created for the extravagant Lion.
Cayenne -- What other sign could possibly conjure up the spice that cayenne pepper does? Not many. This medicinal herb has many healthy benefits for the Leo; Cayenne pepper has a stimulating effect on the circulatory system and is considered the best seasoning in regard to blood flow and as an aid to the digestive system. A little goes a long way, so use with caution. The Lion loves the spice of life so add a little cayenne to your dish and you just may be in for the time of your life.
Figs -- Known as the fitness fruit, figs are loaded with fiber, vitamins and minerals that help with lowering blood pressure, losing weight, promoting bone and teeth health, and stabilizing blood sugar and cardiovascular health. Figs are delicate and have a unique taste and texture, making them popular in one of the oldest cookies in America -- Fig Newtons. The Lion loves the sweetness of the fig and the extra energy that it packs.
Caviar -- Caviar is the lightly salted egg (fish roe) of sturgeons that have been allowed to mature. According to a Harvard study, "the sturgeon, the only fish whose roe was ruled by the FDA as caviar, is prehistoric and has been around for 250 million years. References to caviar in literature and art date back almost as far as the sturgeon itself." The best caviar available is Beluga and comes from the Caspian Sea, making Russia and Iran the leaders in production. Ijust n ancient times it was reserved for royalty. Although high in cholesterol, one serving of caviar is loaded with vitamins A, B and E. This decadent appetizer was created for the extravagant Lion.
Cayenne -- What other sign could possibly conjure up the spice that cayenne pepper does? Not many. This medicinal herb has many healthy benefits for the Leo; Cayenne pepper has a stimulating effect on the circulatory system and is considered the best seasoning in regard to blood flow and as an aid to the digestive system. A little goes a long way, so use with caution. The Lion loves the spice of life so add a little cayenne to your dish and you just may be in for the time of your life.
Figs -- Known as the fitness fruit, figs are loaded with fiber, vitamins and minerals that help with lowering blood pressure, losing weight, promoting bone and teeth health, and stabilizing blood sugar and cardiovascular health. Figs are delicate and have a unique taste and texture, making them popular in one of the oldest cookies in America -- Fig Newtons. The Lion loves the sweetness of the fig and the extra energy that it packs.
Flambé -- The flambé preparation is perfect for the Lion in its dramatic and flamboyant presentation. Flambé is the French term for the method of "flaming," which is generally done tableside by igniting alcohol with food right before serving. Popular dishes are Cherries Jubilee and Steak Diane. If you want to ignite the fire in your Leo companion, serve a flambé dish and you will definitely turn up the heat.
Foie Gras -- Foie Gras is the Grand Dame of liver pate and the actual French translation for "fat liver." This rich delicacy has been at the tables of the most prestigious gastronomes in history. Dating back to the Egyptians, foie gras was discovered around 2500 BC. Foie gras is the goose liver of force-fed geese that are fattened over a period of 4 to 5 months, which the French have perfected and taken to whole other level, called Alsatian foie gras. When serving foie gras, always start as an appetizer when the palate is clean, so you can enjoy the rich and sweet texture. Leos love to serve the best of everything, and this will be the perfect fit.
Grapes -- Grapes date back to 3500 BC, making them one of the first fruit crops to be domesticated. While seedless grapes may be more desirable, grape seed extract prevents heart disease. Wine was first made from grapes in prehistoric times. Red wine is known to lower bad cholesterol and raise good cholesterol, contributing to a healthy heart. Grapes and a nice low fat cheese served with a glass of red wine would be the perfect dessert choice for the heart of every Leo.
Foie Gras -- Foie Gras is the Grand Dame of liver pate and the actual French translation for "fat liver." This rich delicacy has been at the tables of the most prestigious gastronomes in history. Dating back to the Egyptians, foie gras was discovered around 2500 BC. Foie gras is the goose liver of force-fed geese that are fattened over a period of 4 to 5 months, which the French have perfected and taken to whole other level, called Alsatian foie gras. When serving foie gras, always start as an appetizer when the palate is clean, so you can enjoy the rich and sweet texture. Leos love to serve the best of everything, and this will be the perfect fit.
Grapes -- Grapes date back to 3500 BC, making them one of the first fruit crops to be domesticated. While seedless grapes may be more desirable, grape seed extract prevents heart disease. Wine was first made from grapes in prehistoric times. Red wine is known to lower bad cholesterol and raise good cholesterol, contributing to a healthy heart. Grapes and a nice low fat cheese served with a glass of red wine would be the perfect dessert choice for the heart of every Leo.
Honey -- Considered to be the nectar of the Gods, especially the Sun God, the regal lion will benefit from the natural properties associated with this amber liquid. Honey has long been used for treating burns or wounds, as it facilitates the healing process. It is also synonymous with happiness, fulfillment and elevating one's mood. So when the Lion in your life is starting to roar or that magnanimous heart is feeling wounded, honey will be just what the doctor order to soothe the savage beast.
Lobster -- Lobster is sacred to the Greek Gods. It is the also king of the shellfish. Both these facts make it a most appropriate feast for the king of beasts. Leos love extravagance, luxury and richness, and lobster is considered to be all three in many countries. The rich flavor sits well on the royal palate.
Marzipan -- Marzipan is made of ground almonds and sugar blended into a golden paste, richer and finer than almond paste. It receives its distinct flavor from bitter almonds. Many have seen the colorful marzipan candies formed in the shapes of fruits. Marzipan is also used as a filling in pastries, wedding cakes, Christmas cakes and King Cakes seen during Carnival Season. A trinket is baked into one of the King Cakes and the person who receives it is crowned King or Queen of the party. Carnival or Mardi Gras is the ultimate party, sure to draw the attention of a Leo. Even if he isn't graced with the trinket, he has already been crowned king of the zodiac.
About the Author
Sabra Ricci is a chef to the celebrities and caterer on the beautiful island of Maui. She is renowned for her healthy, delectable menus. A graduate of the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco, Sabra worked in Paris for YES Catering Company and as a consultant at Grail Springs Spa in Canada. During the 2003 fashion week in New York City, Sabra was one of four chefs selected to participate in the "Five Star Feast," a "Chef to the Celebrities" cooking extravaganza and live demonstration hosted by Joan Lunden.
Recipes for Leo >>
Lobster -- Lobster is sacred to the Greek Gods. It is the also king of the shellfish. Both these facts make it a most appropriate feast for the king of beasts. Leos love extravagance, luxury and richness, and lobster is considered to be all three in many countries. The rich flavor sits well on the royal palate.
Marzipan -- Marzipan is made of ground almonds and sugar blended into a golden paste, richer and finer than almond paste. It receives its distinct flavor from bitter almonds. Many have seen the colorful marzipan candies formed in the shapes of fruits. Marzipan is also used as a filling in pastries, wedding cakes, Christmas cakes and King Cakes seen during Carnival Season. A trinket is baked into one of the King Cakes and the person who receives it is crowned King or Queen of the party. Carnival or Mardi Gras is the ultimate party, sure to draw the attention of a Leo. Even if he isn't graced with the trinket, he has already been crowned king of the zodiac.
About the Author
Sabra Ricci is a chef to the celebrities and caterer on the beautiful island of Maui. She is renowned for her healthy, delectable menus. A graduate of the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco, Sabra worked in Paris for YES Catering Company and as a consultant at Grail Springs Spa in Canada. During the 2003 fashion week in New York City, Sabra was one of four chefs selected to participate in the "Five Star Feast," a "Chef to the Celebrities" cooking extravaganza and live demonstration hosted by Joan Lunden.
Recipes for Leo >>
