Omega-3 and 6 for your Brain

Spaghetti with Anchovies and Poppy Seeds
(This recipe was invented by Mastercook Gianni A. Sarcone)
• The omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fishes are a primary building block of brain tissue, so they will amp up your thinking power. Anchovies are rich on Omega 3 fatty acids, and they also provide niacin, which can help ward off Alzheimer's disease and slow the rate of cognitive decline. Moreover, this fish contains calcium, iron, phosphorus, and selenium, for cell function.
• Poppy seeds are the best source of linoleic acid, or LA — a healthy fat that improves the workings of the cerebral cortex, the area of the brain that processes sensory information, including that of pleasure. They are also very good sources of minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, copper and manganese, which play a very important role in proper metabolism, increasing the bone density, and improving muscle activity. Poppy seeds are available in blue-gray and off-white varieties, which are very similar in flavor and texture. Blue-gray variety is considered 'European' poppy seeds, as it is found mostly in Western countries. They add a nutty flavor and texture to foods.

Ingredients • spaghetti (100 gr. per person). • olive oil. • 4 anchovy fillets per person. • 5 tbs. (tablespoons) of poppy seeds per person.

Direction • Take the anchovy fillets out of their container and put them in a dish in order to drain some of their oil away. • Cook the spaghetti 'al dente' according to the package direction (approx. 9 min.) • Meanwhile, heat up a large frying pan with 3-4 tbs. of olive oil, then add the poppy seeds (5-6 full tbs. per person) and let them simmer gently over a low heat for about five minutes. • Once your spaghetti is cooked al dente, drain them and immediately throw them into the frying pan containing the poppy seeds, add the anchovy fillets, toss and mix everything quickly while cooking over a high heat for about 2-3 minutes. Then, serve hot and "buon appetito"! • If you find the finished dish a bit salty for your taste, next time, you can rinse the anchovy fillets in water and pat dry with kitchen paper. Wine • To accompany this meal, we suggest dry white wines like Vermentino (Italy), Riesling (Germany) or Luins (Switzerland). Online Grocery • Anchovy fillets are normally available in any supermarket and most of the time are in a small jar with olive oil. However, you can purchase Italian anchovy filets here. • You can also purchase poppy seeds here.