Cravings and Menus

Cravings can sometimes feel like a challenge when trying to maintain a healthy diet. Last week, mashed potatoes were the star of the cravings, and this week, the desire has shifted to fresh salads with a bold, tangy dressing reminiscent of Roquefort cheese. Store-bought salad dressings often contain preservatives, added sugars, and unhealthy fats, which can derail healthy eating goals. I cannot have them especially if they contain "gum-gums". Luckily, there’s a delicious homemade alternative using gorgonzola cheese crumbles that satisfies the craving without compromising nutrition.

Homemade dressing using Gorgonzola cheese crumbles.

Cravings are signals from the body or mind that often reflect a need for comfort, flavor, or specific nutrients. Mashed potatoes offer creamy texture and warmth, while salads with blue cheese dressings provide tangy richness and freshness. The key to healthy eating is to balance these cravings with nutrient-dense ingredients and portion control. This is where I tend to run into trouble. If it tastes good I want that to continue.

Mashed potatoes get a bad reputation for being heavy and calorie-dense, but they can be part of a healthy meal when prepared thoughtfully:

Use whole potatoes with skin for extra fiber and nutrients. I cheated there.

Substitute heavy cream or butter with Greek yogurt or a small amount of olive oil. 

Add herbs like garlic, chives, or rosemary for flavor without extra calories. 

Control portion size to keep the meal balanced.

Store-bought blue cheese or Roquefort dressings often contain additives and excess sodium. Making your own dressing with gorgonzola crumbles allows you to:

Control the amount of cheese and fat.

Use fresh ingredients like lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs.

Avoid preservatives and artificial flavors.

Customize the flavor intensity to your liking.

Homemade Gorgonzola Salad Dressing Recipe

This dressing is creamy, tangy, and easy to make. It pairs perfectly with mixed greens, nuts, and fruits.

Ingredients

1/4 cup gorgonzola cheese crumbles

1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 small garlic clove, minced

Salt and black pepper to taste

Water to thin (optional)

Instructions

In a small bowl, combine gorgonzola, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and garlic.

Whisk until smooth. Add water a teaspoon at a time to reach desired consistency.

Season with salt and pepper.

Chill for 15 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.

This dressing keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Salads don’t have to be boring. Here are some combinations that work well with the creamy, tangy dressing:

Classic wedge salad: Iceberg lettuce wedge, cherry tomatoes, crispy bacon bits, and gorgonzola dressing. This was recommended by google but I don't do bacon or iceberg lettuce. I added it in here for those who still those things cuz it sounds tasty.

Pear and walnut salad: Mixed greens, sliced pears, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and dressing.

Beet and arugula salad: Roasted beets, peppery arugula, toasted pecans, and gorgonzola dressing.

Apple and celery salad: Crisp apples, sliced celery, toasted almonds, and dressing.

Adding nuts and fruits balances the richness of the cheese and adds texture and nutrients.

Prepare dressing in advance: Keep in a jar in the fridge for quick salad assembly.

Chop salad ingredients: Wash and cut vegetables and fruits, store separately to maintain freshness.

I intend to Embrace my cravings with creativity and care, and expect that I’ll find healthy eating more enjoyable and sustainable. I'm planning my week with these ideas and I shall savor every bite. Bon Appetit'

“I asked the librarian if the library had books on paranoia. She whispered, ‘They’re right

behind you.’”