Kick Start Christmas Eve Day

by Deborah English — December 24, 2007

Step One: Straight up: go for a run, do some yoga, breath, skip, practice the hoola-hoop - whatever gets your going.

Step Two: Get your lovely worked-out body under a steaming hot shower. Let the water pummel and relax your muscles and stimulate your circulation at the same time. Okay, you're probably feeling pretty good about yourself.

Step Three: All you need now is a nutrient-packed breakfast - and then you'll be less-inclined to make a pig of yourself later. Check out my article " Fabulous Fungi " and enjoy the following breakfast knowing for sure just how fabulous you are going to feel on Christmas Day.

Parmesan Mushrooms with Egg Yolk Dressing

(Serves 4)

The Dressing:

1 organic egg yolk
2 Tbsp lemon juice
1 clove garlic, crushed
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
Sea salt and black pepper, freshly ground

Lightly poach the egg yolk in water until it begins to set around the edges. Transfer carefully from the pan and whisk together with the other ingredients, until thickened, and sort of "gloopy."

The Real Food:

8 big portabella mushrooms, stalks removed
2 Tbsp garlic-infused olive oil
½ cup Italian (flat-leafed) parsley, chopped
Chunky slices of sourdough bread (or any favorite)
Basil Pesto - to taste

Pan-fry the mushrooms in garlic oil until they are well-colored and smell mouthwateringly delicious. Meanwhile, spread the basil pesto onto the bread and place under a grill until toasted. Set the toast and portabella mushrooms onto serving plates, and top with thinly sliced parmesan and parsley.