A few years ago, I decided to change my eating habits and become vegetarian. Sounds nice, right?
Well… after a few weeks my body said NOPE. Zero energy, always tired, feeling weak...and this was with me trying to get all the right vitamins: B12, iron, calcium, zinc, omega-3… everything.
I did a lot of research, and that’s where the first problem appeared: vitamin B12. You mostly get it from dairy or cereals. But because of Crohn’s disease, my intestines are not friends with milk and dairy..I won't drink it, but I use it for cooking and baking when I'm in remission.
Then there’s iron, calcium, zinc, etc. Most of them come from legumes, seeds, and nuts. Guess what? My intestines hate those too. So I became more and more tired, sleepy, and weak. My body was clearly not happy.
I also tried that lifestyle with fish only... pesc… pesceta… pescetarian? (I still can’t say it 😂). I love seafood and honestly thought: “This is it! No meat, I’ll be strong again!”
Oh… I was wrong.
After a lot of trying, research, and listening to my body, I accepted the truth...my body needs meat. I take many pills that already make my body weaker, so food is very important for me. Now I eat meat 4–5 times a week, plus seafood (again...my favorite 😍). I also drink magnesium and calcium every day... one glass a day!
Small problem... fresh seafood here is almost impossible to get. I don’t live near the sea, and yes, fresh is always better. Most fish travels from Spain or Norway before it reaches my plate. Long journey, little fish 😉
But when I go to the sea? First thing I order? YES...SEAFOOD. ALL OF IT. (Spain, I’m waiting for you!)
Today I couldn’t decide what to cook. My husband went to the shop and came back with octopus and salmon. Best. Husband. Ever. 😉
The octopus was already pre-cooked, so straight into the oven...easy life. Not perfect, but close enough to feeling like I’m eating by the beach.
Best side dish with octopus and salmon? Mashed potatoes.
Not to brag… but I make the best mashed potatoes 😉
You know how to do it? Boil the potatoes until soft, add a bit of milk, sour cream, butter, and salt. No measurements...I cook by taste. Yes, I’m a pro 😎
And for the salmon?
Garlic, parsley, butter, lemon juice, salt. Mix it, spread it on the salmon, oven at 200°C for 15 minutes. Done.
Octopus goes in the oven too.About 15 minutes until a little crunchy.
Ahhh… perfect meal. I’m happy. My tummy is full. Life is good 😊
So no, I can’t be vegetarian. Also, being near the sea and not eating fresh seafood? That would make me cry.
And we don’t want that 😉
If you have a different salmon recipe, feel free to share it in the comments 😉
