(Feature Impact) A healthy brain goes beyond reading exercises and completing puzzles – it extends to the kitchen, too. Emerging nutritional science is clear that what people eat doesn’t just fuel the body; it shapes memory, mood and cognitive health.

Among the foods you can include in your diet to give your brain a boost are peanuts and peanut butter, staples valued not only for their convenience but also for their cognitive benefits. In fact, a study published in the “Journal of the Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease” found adults 60-80 years old who did not eat peanuts and peanut butter regularly were 30-50% more likely to perform poorly on tests measuring learning, memory, language, processing motor speed and attentiveness compared to those who did consumer peanuts and peanut butter.

It’s not just the older generation that can benefit. According to research published in “Clinical Nutrition,” a study of college students ages 18-33 showed consumption of peanuts and peanut butter was associated with improved memory function and decreased anxiety, depression and stress.

Consider this key information from the Georgia Peanut Commission before your next meal planning session.

Nutrients that Give the Brain a Boost

Despite their small stature, peanuts pack a nutrition punch. Their unique blend of various vitamins, minerals and bioactive compounds includes:

• Niacin, which can slow cognitive decline and reduce the risk for Alzheimer’s disease, according to the “Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry”
• Vitamin E, found to promote healthy brain aging and delay cognitive decline
• Resveratrol, believed to be beneficial in fighting against Alzheimer’s disease and other nerve degenerating diseases, per the “Journal of Biological Chemistry”
• P-coumaric acid, an antioxidant that appears to target the neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate mood, stress and anxiety

Peace of MIND

Peanuts are included in the MIND diet, a combination of the Mediterranean and DASH diets, which specifically includes foods shown to benefit the brain.

Adding peanuts to your menu can be a breeze. Look no further than a powerful main course like Crunchy and Creamy Cold Green Pea and Peanut Salad, a perfect accompaniment at potlucks and cookouts as an easy side or light main course.

Brain Food for Thought

Supporting your brain starts with the right nutrition, and evidence makes clear peanuts and peanut butter should be top-of-mind as you head to the grocery store. For help getting started, find more recipes and nutritional information by visiting GAPeanuts.com.

Crunchy and Creamy Cold Green Pea and Peanut Salad

Recipe courtesy of The Peanut Institute
Servings: 8

Dressing:

• 1/3       cup sour cream
  
• 1 1/2    tablespoons mayonnaise
  
• 2          teaspoons apple cider vinegar
  
• 2          teaspoons sugar

Salad:

• 1          package (20 ounces) green peas, frozen
  
• 1          cup celery, chopped
  
• 1/3       cup red onions, chopped
  
• 1          cup dry roasted peanuts
  
• 6          slices thick cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
  
• 1          pinch salt, or to taste
  
• 1          pinch freshly ground black pepper, or to taste

1. To make dressing: In small mixing bowl, whisk sour cream, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar and sugar.
2. To make salad: In large mixing bowl, combine frozen green peas, celery and onion. Pour dressing over salad and toss to combine. Refrigerate at least 2 hours.
3. Before serving, stir in roasted peanuts and crumbled bacon. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Nutritional information per serving: 230 calories, 17 g carbohydrates, 12 mg cholesterol, 3 g saturated fat, 9 g unsaturated fat, 5 g fiber, 11 g protein, 249 mg sodium, 6 g sugar, 1 g added sugar.

SOURCE:

Georgia Peanut Commission

STM Daily News’ Food and Drink section highlights the stories, trends, flavors, and events shaping today’s food culture. From recipes to restaurant news, it keeps readers connected to what’s fresh and worth tasting.

(Feature Impact) A bit of shade and diligent sunscreen use can go a long way, but protecting your skin – the body’s largest organ – takes more than just the basics for optimal health, particularly during the hottest times of the year.

In fact, it’s not only about what you put on your body, but in it, too. Emerging research suggests grapes may do more than simply provide hydration, nutrition and natural sweetness; they may help support health at the genetic level. A study published in “ACS Nutrition Science” found consuming grapes changed gene expression in human skin and helped support biological processes associated with healthier, more resilient skin.

These findings add to mounting evidence that grapes act as a “nutrigenomic” food, meaning the antioxidant and other polyphenol compounds naturally found in grapes may influence how genes behave in the body. The results also highlight how whole foods like grapes may influence important biological pathways in the body, according to John Pezzuto, dean and professor of pharmaceutics at the Western New England University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.

“We are now certain that grapes are a superfood and mediate a nutrigenomic response in humans,” Pezzuto said. “The changes in gene expression indicated improvements in skin health.”

Along with making foods like Grapes from California a regular part of your diet, consider these ways to support and protect skin throughout the year.

Cool Down After Sun Exposure

Time in the sun can leave skin feeling dry or irritated, even with sunscreen and protective clothing. After going for a run or spending time at the pool, make sure to rinse off sweat and chlorine with a gentle cleanser then follow up with a lightweight moisturizer or lotion to replenish skin and leave it feeling fresh. Applying moisturizer regularly – especially after showering or washing your face – can help lock in hydration and support your skin’s natural barrier.

Consume Skin-Friendly Foods and Beverages

A cold glass of water goes a long way, but what you put on your plate can play a role in how your skin looks and feels, too. Foods that deliver antioxidants and other polyphenols, like California grapes, may help support skin health from the inside out. An additional bonus: With their high water content, grapes can help maintain hydration, particularly during warmer months.

For the best of both worlds, add an easy beverage to your menu with California Grape Rosemary Spritzers, which combine sparkling water and grapes with a hint of rosemary for a sip that’s equal parts refreshing and delicious.

Don’t Forget Lips and Eyes

Layering sunscreen on exposed skin might be your first priority before stepping into the sun. However, lips and eyes shouldn’t be forgotten. Often overlooked in skin care routines, lips are especially vulnerable to sun damage and dehydration. Make sure to use a lip balm with SPF protection throughout the day and reapply often.

Similarly, the delicate skin around the eyes might be one of the first places to show signs of sun damage. Wear sunglasses with UV protection to shield both your eyes and surrounding skin from harsh rays.

Keep an Eye on Changing Skin

New spots, skin changes or itchiness shouldn’t be ignored. Perform regular skin checks at home, particularly if you spend a lot of time outdoors, and routinely visit a dermatologist who can help catch potential concerns early in support of long-term skin health.

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Find more ways to support your skin with nutritious foods and recipes by visiting GrapesFromCalifornia.com.

California Grape Rosemary Spritzers

Servings: 8

• 8          rosemary sprigs (about 6 inches long)
  
• 24        whole Grapes from California
  
• 2          quarts sparkling water
  
• 1 1/2    cups sliced Grapes from California
  
• ice

1. Partially strip rosemary branches, leaving 3-4 inches of greenery. Skewer three grapes on each branch.
2. Pour water into large pitcher. Add sliced grapes and stir.
3. Fill eight glasses with ice and grape sparkling water. Garnish each drink with grape-rosemary skewer.

SOURCE:

California Table Grape Commission

At our core, we at STM Daily News, strive to keep you informed and inspired with the freshest content on all things food and beverage. From mouthwatering recipes to intriguing articles, we’re here to satisfy your appetite for culinary knowledge.

Visit our Food & Drink section to get the latest on Foodie News and recipes, offering a delightful blend of culinary inspiration and gastronomic trends to elevate your dining experience. https://stmdailynews.com/food-and-drink/

Few meals are as comforting and satisfying as a slow-cooked roast beef. Add a generous splash of red wine, and this classic dish transforms into something truly special. The wine helps tenderize the meat while creating a rich, flavorful sauce that elevates the entire meal.

Whether you’re preparing a Sunday family dinner, hosting guests, or simply craving a hearty homemade meal, this Red Wine Roast Beef recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with simple ingredients and straightforward preparation.

Why Cook Roast Beef with Red Wine?

Red wine adds depth and complexity to the cooking liquid, blending beautifully with beef broth, herbs, and vegetables. As the roast slowly cooks, the wine reduces and concentrates, creating a savory sauce packed with flavor.

Dry red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, or Pinot Noir are excellent choices. The key is to use a wine you would enjoy drinking.

Red Wine Roast Beef Recipe

Ingredients

For the Roast

• 3–5 pound beef chuck roast, top sirloin roast, or top round roast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

For the Braising Liquid

• 2 cups dry red wine
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 bay leaves

Directions

Step 1: Season the Beef

Pat the roast dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.

Step 2: Sear the Roast

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy roasting pan over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until a deep golden-brown crust forms, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Remove the roast and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Add the onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.

Pour in the red wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the wine to simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Slow Roast

Return the beef to the pot. Add the beef broth and bay leaves. The liquid should come about halfway up the roast.

Cover and place in a preheated 325°F oven.

Cook until fork-tender:

• 3-pound roast: 2½ to 3 hours
• 4-pound roast: 3 to 3½ hours
• 5-pound roast: 3½ to 4 hours

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Remove the roast and tent loosely with foil. Strain the cooking liquid and return it to the pot.

Simmer until reduced by approximately one-third. For a thicker gravy, whisk together 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons cold water, then stir into the sauce until thickened.

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Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Internal Temperature and Resting Guidelines

For the most accurate results, use an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the roast.

• Rare: 120–125°F
• Medium-rare: 130–135°F
• Medium: 140–145°F
• Well-done: 160°F and above

Keep in mind that the internal temperature may rise by 5–10°F while the roast rests.

After cooking, allow the roast to rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing. Resting helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty roast pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Roasted baby potatoes
• Buttered green beans
• Roasted Brussels sprouts
• Fresh crusty bread
• Yorkshire pudding

The rich red wine sauce is perfect for spooning over potatoes and vegetables.

Leftovers Are Even Better

One of the best things about roast beef is that leftovers often taste even better the next day. Thinly slice the meat for sandwiches, French dip sandwiches, wraps, or breakfast hash.

Final Thoughts

Red Wine Roast Beef combines simple ingredients with slow cooking to create a meal that feels both rustic and elegant. The combination of tender beef, aromatic herbs, vegetables, and a rich wine-infused sauce makes this recipe a timeless favorite for family dinners and special occasions alike.

The next time you’re looking for a comforting meal with impressive flavor, pour yourself a glass of red wine and let this classic roast do the rest.

Related Recipes & Further Reading

• Allrecipes – Red Wine Pot Roast Recipes
• Food Network – Roast Beef Recipes Collection
• Serious Eats – Roast Beef Techniques and Tips
• The Spruce Eats – Classic Pot Roast Recipes
• Taste of Home – Slow-Cooked Beef Recipes
• Bon Appétit – Braised Beef and Red Wine Dishes

Love discovering new recipes, cooking tips, food trends, and drink ideas? Visit the Food & Drink section of STM Daily News at https://stmdailynews.com/food-and-drink/ for a growing collection of delicious recipes, culinary inspiration, and food-related stories. While you’re there, join the conversation by leaving a comment and sharing your own experiences, tips, or favorite recipes. Don’t forget to sign up for our STM & Coffee newsletter to receive the latest articles, recipes, and updates delivered straight to your inbox so you never miss a story from STM Daily News.