June/July 2025
Below was the teaser graphic for my NEW Evolution in Travel
H. Luiz Martinez
Editor
…but more on that in a moment.
I hope you enjoy this 2-Month packed issue where we highlight great recipes, travel tips, and of course, all the holidays & events that we celebrate in June & July.
Be sure to catch my pernil asado recipe (It’s so good), it’s easier than you think and I’ve included 2 videos so that you’ll have visual guides to follow along. Plus- be sure to catch Travel Tips.
My NEW Evolution in Travel is near- I’ve been teasing it for a lil’ bit but I had to make some decisions regarding what I call: PREtirement. I needed to sell off some assets this year but wanted to continue travelling.
I’ve not traveled to Europe in 5 years, but if my plan goes my way I’ll be in Europe- THIS YEAR!
I’m revealing it all on my NEW YouTube Page: LIFE with HLuiz.
Please come along with me on my Evolution and brand NEW Adventure- I’m so excited!!
I’m posting a NEW video on #LIFEwithHLuiz after my last interview (there’s been 5 already) in TEXAS. I plan to post the video explaining what I’m doing before FLaF’s LipSync/ Karaoke- DISNEY, Fri July 11 @ 630p EST.
I already have Travel/ Food vids on my new channel but please Subscribe now so that you may come along this journey with me.
LIFE with HLuiz
Happy Father’s Day
I always wanted to be a Father, a Dad, a Papi to and for a child. When I met my Henry, he came complete with the sweetest little boy at almost 5 years old. It was love at first sight!
Raising that child together has been the greatest joy of my life! Our current workout / workday schedules had us leaving by 6am and back home by 7pm- but becoming custodial parents to a young child, something had to change. We wanted him to have at least one Father at home before and after school, so we decided that I be the one to stay home during those critical years. It also allowed me to finish my post-graduate education.
We were there for morning breakfast talks, afternoon homework & study prep and cooking dinners together. The weekends were everything! We had full, busy schedules but never regretted it.
Henry and I, although we couldn’t believe it possible, grew even closer- raising this child has bonded us in ways that made being a Parent all that much sweeter. We promised each-other to not lose each-other on this adventure called fatherhood. Our son is nearly 33 years old now, but I swear he was just 5 yesterday,
I want to take this time to thank Henry and our beloved Baby Boy, Jonathan. They have given me the honor and the opportunity to be the best Papi (Henry is titled “Daddy”) that I can be to the most wonderful son in the world.
I wish all of you a very Happy Father’s Day- every day as well!
My Greatest Loves
Sunday, June 15th, 2025
The Power of Oatmeal: Why This Breakfast Staple Should Be on Your Plate Every Single Day of Your Life
When it comes to healthy eating, few foods pack as much nutritional punch as oatmeal. This humble breakfast grain is more than just a cozy morning comfort—it’s a superfood that supports everything from heart health to weight management. Whether you’re looking to lower cholesterol, boost gut health, or simply feel fuller longer, oatmeal should be a go-to in your daily diet. Let’s dive into the top health benefits of eating oatmeal—and why this whole grain deserves the spotlight.
1. Oatmeal Is just a Huge and Heart-Healthy Powerhouse
One of the most celebrated benefits of oatmeal is its role in promoting cardiovascular health. Oats are rich in betaglucan, a type of soluble fiber that helps reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. According to studies, just one bowl of oatmeal per day can lower cholesterol and support healthy blood pressure.
2. Supports Weight Loss and Appetite Control
If you want to shed pounds or maintain a healthy weight, oatmeal can be your best ally. The high fiber content keeps you feeling full and satisfied longer, helping to curb cravings and reduce overall calorie intake.
3. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
Oatmeal is a low-glycemic index food, which means it digests slowly and helps prevent spikes in blood sugar. For people with type 2 diabetes or those trying to maintain steady energy throughout the day, oatmeal is a smart, stable carb choice.
4. Boosts Digestive Health
Your gut health plays a key role in overall well-being, and oatmeal delivers a solid dose of prebiotic fiber to nourish your microbiome. It helps prevent constipation, promotes regularity, and supports a balanced digestive system.
5. Affordable, Versatile, and Easy to Prepare
From classic steel-cut oats to quickcooking or overnight oats, there’s a type of oatmeal for every lifestyle. Top it with fresh berries, chia seeds, honey, or nut butters for added nutrition and variety. Plus, oatmeal is one of the most budget-friendly health foods out there.
6. Packed with Antioxidants That Fight Inflammation
Oatmeal is rich in powerful antioxidants, especially avenanthramidesunique compounds found almost exclusively in oats. These antioxidants help reduce chronic inflammation, improve circulation, and may lower blood pressure. Combined with oatmeal’s magnesium and manganese content, these compounds provide a natural defense against oxidative stress and support long-term cellular health.
Final Thoughts on Oatmeal
Eating oatmeal daily is a small habit that delivers big health benefits. With its incredible nutritional profile, proven effects on cholesterol, digestion, and blood sugar—and its convenience—it’s no surprise that oatmeal continues to earn its place at the top of the healthy eating pyramid. Whether you’re trying to lose weight, protect your heart, or just want a wholesome way to start your day, make oatmeal a morning ritual you won’t want to miss.
I Eat Oatmeal Most Days
I like oats! I like hot oatmeal, I like overnight oats, I like muesli, and pretty much anything oatcookies, shakes, granola, oatbars. My favorite breakfast these days is making a small bowl of piping hot rolled-oats. I give it a splash of plant-based cream and some real maple syrup. Then I get into the toppings. Fresh fruits, dried fruits, and/ or freeze-dried fruit are faves. Ohdon’t forget the coconut flakes, pistachios, almond slices, and walnut pieces. I enjoy making my own flavored oat milks too. Did I mention that I like oats?
GrazingElevated:HowtoCreatea Charcuterie-StyleHummusPlate
This summer, it's all about the delicious hummus plate! Creamy, colorful, and endlessly customizable. A hummus plate brings bold flavor and flair to your next gathering, beach picnic, in front of the TV, or solo snack session.
Step 1: Choose Your Hummus
Go classic or get wild. Set the scene:
• Garlic white bean (lemony, garlicky, savory perfection)
• Roasted red pepper (for a smoky, sweet edge)
• Black bean hummus (for that umami Latin vibe)
• Avocado hummus (creamy and lush)
• Spicy harissa or jalapeño-lime (if you like a kick)
*Choose one variety and set your accruements around it or do what I do- set out a variety of flavored hummus-in little bowls.
Step 2: Add the Bold + the Briny
This is where flavor happens. Think salty, sharp, and briny:
• Kalamata olives
• Marinated artichokes
• Pickled red onions
• Cornichons or mini gherkins
*Arrange these around the hummus like little edible jewels.
Step 3: Crunch & Color
Balance the creaminess with crisp textures:
• Rainbow carrots (I like the elegant Spring carrots)
• Radish (try to find watermelon radish- so pretty)
• Fruits (strawberries, grapes, blueberries, orange slices)
Step 4: The Carbs
• Pita triangles (toasted or soft)
• Crackers (seeded, herbed, or gluten-free)
• Bread (baguette, ciabatta or store-bought slices)
STEP 5: ADD THE MEATY GLAM
Charcuterie means meat, and we’re honoring the classics:
• Prosciutto – delicate, buttery ribbons you fold like edible silk
• Serrano Jamón – bold, nutty flavor with a melt-in-your-mouth finish
• Pepperoni rounds – spicy, salty hits of joy
• Turkey or bresaola for added variety
*Presentation Hack: Fan them out, fold them into rosettes, or layer them like petals.
FINAL
WORDS: The charcuterie-style hummus plate is more than food— It’s a vibe! It’s where texture meets taste, where classic meets global, and where you’re free to mix buttery meats, bold spreads, and bright produce into every glorious bite. Whether you’re grazing with friends, prepping content, or just living your best solo snack life…
How Not to Be ThatTourist in Europe
Listen, globe-trotters if you're jetting off on a fabulous European vacation filled with croissants, cobblestone strolls, and camera-ready castles, don’t forget: every country has its own cultural “do’s and don’ts.” What’s casual in the States might come off gauche in, say, Vienna. From double cheek kisses in Paris to punctuality in Switzerland, the little things do matter. So, before you hop on that flight, take a moment to brush up on these unspoken etiquette rules that'll keep your trip stress-free, your hosts happy, and your vibe oh-so-cosmopolitan.
Let’s keep it real Europe is fabulous, magical, and delicious destination, but it’s also big on etiquette. So if you're planning that dreamy vacation (you know, sipping wine under the Eiffel Tower, twirling pasta in Rome, living your best life in Lisbon), it pays to know the local rules of the land or risk becoming the walking definition of a culture clash.
Different countries equal different customs, and if you want to be more cosmopolitan and less cringe, then these travel etiquette tips will guide you like a pro through Europe.
Get the Greeting Right
Kisses, handshakes, or just a nod? Europe’s got a whole language of hellos. In the UK, you might get a handshake, though among friends, cheek kisses are becoming the norm. Now hop over to France and you’ll need to “faire la bise.”
You got it- air kisses on both cheeks (sometimes four, if you're fancy). Cheeks touch, the smooch is loud, and the rhythm is real. Women kiss everyone; men mostly kiss women but I’ve seen heterosexual men kiss other men. But if you are ever unsure, go classic: offer a handshake and save yourself the awkward lean-in fumble. Cultural charm, unlocked. But do us ALL a favor, if you’re in America and you’re an American- please don’t faire la bise. It’s so pretentious.
Queue Like a Champ
Americans may love their free-for-alls, but in Europe? Order is everything especially in the UK, where queuing is basically a national sport. Don’t even think about skipping the line unless you want dagger stares from well-dressed grandmothers. Western and Northern Europe keep it classy with tidy lines for coffee, trains, and even escalators.
The further south or east you go, expect a little more... chaos. Want a pro tip? Buy skip-the-line passes for museums and top attractions, and you’ll be breezing past crowds like European royalty.
Dine Like You Have All Day
Forget fast food vibes Europeans like to linger. Meals here are an experience, meant to be savored slowly, with wine, conversation, and maybe dessert. Don’t expect the server to whisk away your plate as soon as you’re done. That would be rude. If you're in a hurry (you’ve got West End Theater tickets?) then let your server know upfront and ask for the check when you order. Otherwise, chill, relax- you're on Euro-time now.
Don’t Over-Tip (Like I Tend to Do)
Look, I love showing appreciation—but tipping in Europe is a whole different game. No need to bust out 20% on every meal. In most places, 10% is gracious, and many restaurants in countries like Italy already include a service charge on the bill. Rounding up a cab fare or tipping a stellar guide? Perfectly fine. But don’t go dropping bills at the pub in London—they’ll look at you like you just tipped the Queen. When in doubt? Ask your concierge what’s cool.
Lower the Volume, Superstar
I love a good laugh, but Europe is not the place to shout across the plaza or narrate your life on speakerphone. Keep your voice soft in public places— especially in galleries, cafés, subways, and museums. Loud talkers get the dreaded European shush, or worse... the slow head turn. Trust me, you don’t want that smoke. Save your loud-ass voice for Ibiza nightclubs or Mykonos.
Take the Selfie... But Read the Room
Sure, that cathedral is giving everything it needs to give. Snap the pic. Do the pose. But if you’re blocking foot traffic, standing in someone’s commute path, or staging a photo shoot in a crowded plaza, you’re gonna get some serious side-eye. Be aware of your surroundings and step aside when needed. The vibe is confident tourist, not clueless roadblock.
Follow the Locals’ Lead
When in Rome… or Amsterdam… or Barcelona… do what the locals do. That means standing on the right (or is it left?) on escalators, walking in rhythm with foot traffic, and never stepping into a bike lane in Copenhagen unless you have a will written. Europeans are polite, but their cyclists are fast—and fierce. Watch, learn, and follow suit. You’ll look less like a tourist and more like a seasoned traveler who’s been here before.
Final Thoughts
A European vacation is a magical, once-in-a-lifetime escape (or once-a-year if you’re lucky like me!) filled with food, fashion, and unforgettable views. But nothing kills the vibe faster than making a cultural faux pas. A little respect, a little awareness, and a dash of charm go a long way. Blend in, be gracious, and travel smart. You’ll earn smiles instead of stares and come home with nothing, but stories and a camera roll full of magic.
Differences between
Pork Shoulder, Picnic Shoulder,
Pork Butt & Boston Butt
I know it may seem confusing, at first- but it’s not that complicated once somebody explains it. So here I go…
The entire shoulder on the front leg of a pig is divided into two sub-primal cuts— the upper, less-tough part of the shoulder is pork butt (also known as Boston butt) and the lower, tougher part of the shoulder is called picnic butt (this is what’s primarily used to make pernil asado).
These butt cuts have nothing to do with the pig’s hindquarters (or its butt)the hindquarters are where the hams are located and carved. So why do they call it that? Just to confuse us? Well, no- I mean, it’s confusing yes, but in colonial New England, butchers packed inexpensive cuts of meat into large barrels, called butts, for storage and for transport. The shoulder meat packed into these barrels became known as pork butt, and the name stuck. And while we’re on the subject of names- I explained that pork butt is also known as Boston butt almost everywhere in the US- except in Boston. It’s like French Fries, fried potatoes known the world over, except in France. The pork butt or Boston butt is used for dishes like pulled pork,
Now picnic pork is the tougher, lower part of the shoulder. It’s very sinewy because that where all the muscles are really moving when the pig walks, hops, trots and runs. When picnic pork is smoked, they call it picnic ham (an inexpensive substitute to actual ham but with similar flavor) because most actual hams sold are smoked too. Since it’s a tougher piece of meat, it must be cooked on low and slow.
So why in the world do they call it picnic pork? (These names though!)
Since the lower pork butt (which is actually the lower part of the shoulder) is a tougher, less expensive cut, the story goes that it’s more fitting for casual dining, like picnics and outdoor events. However, when seasoned, prepared and cooked oh so right, you can’t tell a Puerto Rican, Cuban or a Dominican that a picnic pork shoulder is not the choice cut for a pernil asado dish.
I hope I provided some clarification on the cuts, the names of these cuts, their location on the pig and the origin of why they are named as such- or are you even more confused? jajajaja! Let me know! #AskHLuiz
Cooking a pork shoulder roast is great but crafting a pernil asado (picnic shoulder) is an experience- some even say it’s a religious experience. For most Latinos, having a succulent pernil asado, just conjures up warm memories of childhood to present day. During special events, festivities and major holidays (even Thanksgiving- hold the turkey) you will, 9 times out of 10, find a pork picnic cut roasting in some oven or a whole pig on a spit- roasting over an open flame should you be so lucky! I know my Vegan friends are running for the hills right now. But if they were Latino before they were vegan (jajaja!) they know what I mean.
My mother was extra extra on Thanksgiving. She would stuff a large turkey with shreds and shreds of pernil asado. I can just quiver with delight thinking about that delicious roast-pork stuffed turkey. However, it was more than just that succulent pork meat, much more than that.
It was the house full of family- laughing to stories, dancing to salsa & merengue, drinking coquito, making pasteles and the spirit of whatever we were celebrating.
When I make my own roast pork, the aroma alone transforms me to a child, where we would get kicked out of our own home because they didn’t want us kids to hear the latest bonchiche (gossip). Some of the men in the family would play-fight for the biggest piece of cuerito (pork skin) while the elders would sit, cross-armed and looking to see who was not seasoning the pernil right (are your knife punctures deep enough for the mojo?) or who was making the pasteles incorrectly (aceite, masa, carne and 1 olive- just 1 olive!). Then there were the cooking debates. This one’s arroz con gandules is the best but her potato salad is shot to hell. This one makes a great empanada but why did she start adding raisins to it- for sweetness? What the… But one thing they all agreed on: my Father made the best pernil asado!
Mi Pernil Asado
Here’s another video of how I finish cooking my tasty “pernil asado” and how I like to plate it and presents it- not only just for the holidays but for everyday. We love it!
Here’s a quick video of how I prepare my tasty “pernil asado” for the holidays and in general. It truly is a family fave and I make this dish about 4 times a year,
Tap on the picture to see the Part I of the video.
Tap on the picture to see the Part I Iof the video.
You’ve been Cancelled…
your flight has been cancelled that is, so now what do you do?
The 1st thing you should know is that airlines do NOT offer cash for cancelled flights. I don’t know where people got that from but some folks would call me asking, “They gotta pay me, right?”
And that’s the 2nd thing, if your flight gets cancelled or delayedDO NOT CALL H. Luiz Martinez!
I am not equipped to handle such a call. Do not waste valuable time with me because all I can really do is say- call your airline reps.
There is growing pressure from Washington to financially compensate passengers for cancelled flights and severe delays. There are ACTS proposed so let’s see if they finally become LAWs. But as of this storywe do not have a Passenger Bill of Rights like other European countries. We do have an Airline Customer Service dashboard and the information there is invaluable. Always check this dashboard as I often do for the latest on our rights for airline travel. It’s a government sanctioned site that is trying to give passengers more rights and better compensation from airlines.
Another thing you should know, if and when an airline offers you a meal voucher and / or a hotel stay voucher, that it is a gift on behalf of the airline. There are no federal laws requiring airlines to provide passengers with money or other compensation when their flights are delayed.
My favorite airline and partner JetBlue automatically offers credit or travel vouchers for 3+ hour delays. I found out that Alaska Airlines does the same. Other airlines, you would have to call and / or email your requests.
When you find yourself with a significant flight delay or cancellation, send an email to the customer service department within the airline with the details of your experience. Do not start demanding compensation(s) and keep your call professional. Studies prove that customer care reps want to help people. If you’re pleasant, they may go out of their way to get you the “extras” but if you’re rude- you’d be lucky to get the bare minimum.
Keep it short and simple with dates, flights and confirmation codes, and ask for appropriate compensation. If you have elite status, your compensation may be higher than if you don’t.
You can always see what the airline offers and then reply with what you think is fair if you aren’t sure what to ask for. If the airline doesn’t respond to you, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Transportation, which will force the airline to respond to your inquiry within 30 days.
If you’re in the airport and your flight is significantly delayed, most airlines will rebook you for free on their next flight out if they have enough seats. Some will even offer free rebooked flights on other airlines to get you to your destination. You may also choose to rebook a flight out of pocket if you know that your travel insurance / credit card would cover the expense.
Keep in mind that if you do accept vouchers from your airline for your inconvenience, you may not be entitled to further compensation.
Get familiar on what to do, know what your airline policies are regarding cancellations & delays and what your travel insurance will compensate you before you travel.
Stay calm above all else.
Pride is more than just marching in a parade and feeling fab for a day / weekend. Pride is a selfaffirming feeling where one feels free of shame, free to love and simply put- free to be!
Gay Pride, LGBTQ+ Pride and now more commonly said Pride- is an institution. It’s a chance to show visibility and to demonstrate to the younger generations that all will be okay. There are still bullies out there but it does get better.
Visibility also helps others see that LGBTQ+ communities are really just like everyone else. We are as wonderful, strange, positive, cheery, negative, nasty, beautiful, and ugly as everyone else on the planet.
“
We are more alike than unalike.”
-Maya Angelou
Being a positive role model may inspire and affect change, not only in LFBTQ+ Communities but in general. It happens on a small scale but small scales can be impactful;
I cannot tell you how many times I’ve crossed paths with would-be homophobes and bigots. Usually, I find out- after they tell me how the used to be- before “we” became acquaintances and then friends.
I am always in shock when they tell me about their stories. The friends, in my case, start out by telling me that I was the only gay person that they have met. Then they segue to (or so they tell me)- I’m not really down with gay folks- but you’re cool.
This is where I get them. I say, I cannot be the only cool gay person in this world filled with gay folks, right? Trust me, there are others out there- maybe not as cute, but they’re out there. This usually gets a laugh out of them but it also gets them thinking.
Then I suggest that they may have gay people around them, but they may have felt they couldn’t be who they really are around bigotry and homophobia. This really makes them think.
Most admit that they were bigots, homophobes and some even racist because they were “brought up” that way. Yes- all those terrible ways to “be” is learned behavior- usually starting within the home.
They way their role models (parents, family, society, etc.,) are/ were is who they became. Well, that’s what “role-models” do- right or wrong.
Prejudices that were grandfathered to them, kept them from getting to know someone (or anyone) who is gay. Or kept the gay folks- closeted around them for fear of rejection.
Then they explain that, I have influenced them to strive for a more positive life. They really enjoy my stories regarding my relationship with Henry. They also enjoy it when I speak about my son and the stories of my childhood really crack them up.
I believe that they start to see that gay folks are no different from other folks and what brings us joy or what brings us down is really the same things. We all have just one life to live- might as well live it well and free of hate or dislike for different groups.
Always live your best life (gay or straight)- you never know whom you’re influencing. Happy Pride!
The Casa Sol Cocktail
• 2 very ripe mangoes pureed or 2 cups of mango juice
• ¼ cup of fresh lime juice
• sugar to taste (we use ½ cup)
• 1 bottle of Cava (any brand)
• ½ cup of vodka (we use Tito’s)
• Mango and lime slices for garnish
Casa Sol Cocktail: place your peeled mango slices in a blender with lime juice and sugar- quantity depending on the mango’s sweetness.
Half-fill glasses with puree and add ice. Top it off with the Cava.
I promise you’ll have the most refreshing cocktail ever!
Sparkling Tequila Sunset
• ¼ cup of the best Tequila
• ⅓ cup of fresh OJ or otherwise
• squeeze of lime
• squirt of honey
• beer (we use Modelo Especial)
*These proportions are for 1 serving
Place your ingredients in a large glass, add ice and top with beer.
I came up with this one while in Mexico. Henry wanted a little taste of something but we couldn’t find what. I asked for the ingredients plus seltzer water- I’m not a fan of beer. They didn’t have any seltzer so I used ginger ale. The cocktail was pretty good. The next evening, they were out of ginger ale so I used Modelo Beer. This worked out well- Modelo Especial has orange blossom notes and honey. Perfect! I’m still not a fan of beer but am a fan of Modelo!
Pride Rum Punch
See if you can use all the Pride Colors to Sip Your Colors with this Punch
• Red: strawberry, raspberry
• Orange: oranges, cantaloupe
• Yellow: lemons
• Green: green apple, kiwi
• Blue: blueberries
• Purple: grapes
• Fruit Juice (we use Cran-Grape)
• Lots of Rum (we use Bacardi)
So this is basically my rum punch recipe revamped for Pride. I use the same fruits I have used for the cover of this Pride Issue. Pour in as much rum as you like and see if you can use all the pride colors.
The Watermelon Cooler
This is a very refreshing cooler. It is nothing more but a delicious watermelon infused water with slices of lime or lemons.
Carefully slice off the rind off an entire small watermelon. Then thinly slice the round-end side and place it flat in a large pitcher or water dispenser. Then add lots of citrus slices on top- I usually use limes. On top of that, add lots of ice then your best water fill to the top. This is a great non-spirited option for your parties. Happy Pride and Happy July!
THE SCOOP: Pistachio Rose Vanilla
Ice Cream is the Floral-Fantasy You Didn't Know You Needed
Pistachio Rose Vanilla ice cream is what happens when your favorite Middle Eastern dessert elopes with a Parisian perfume— and they honeymoon in a cashew milk swirl. This flavor is elegant without being fussy, sweet with a twist, and totally addictive in the best way. The velvety vanilla base gives your taste buds something familiar to hold onto, while crushed pistachios add that satisfying crunch. But it’s the hint of rosewater that lifts it to luxurious levels—like eating ice cream in a garden, sunroom, or on your cute back porch.
Make It at Home in 5 Minutes
(No Ice Cream Machine Needed!)
You’ll Need: 1 pint of your favorite vanilla ice cream- slightly softened (I used a quart of store-bought vegan cashew-based vanilla ice cream and just doubled the recipe); 2 tsp of rosewater (food grade only) use 1 tsp if you’re new to the flavor of rose water; 2 tbsp of chopped pistachios (raw, roasted, or unsalted; optional freeze-dried rose petals for garnish.
How to: scoop the softened vanilla ice cream into a mixing bowl. Drizzle in the rosewater and stir in the chopped pistachios and a half cup of freeze-dried (I use whole) rose petals. Return to freezer- 30 minutes to firm. Scoop into your cutest bowl or cone, sprinkle with more rose petals, and serve with main-character energy.
Loaded Taco Salad Supreme
When I make bowls of these loaded taco salads, we just can’t wait to do a swan-dive, right in the middle of it all. Find out what makes these supreme
The Vibrant Bowl That Eats Like a Fiesta
Forget the sad, soggy salads of yesterday—this Taco Salad Supreme is bold, brilliant, and bursting with flavor. It's crispy, creamy, spicy, cool, crunchy, and refreshing all at once. We're layering textures. We’re stacking flavors. We’re tossing colors like confetti. This is a full-on SALAD SITUATION.
WHAT’S IN THIS TACO SUPREME?
Seasoned Ground Beef
Rich, juicy, and perfectly spiced
Butter LettuceSoft, tender, and oh-so-luxurious
Roasted Corn
Charred, juicy, smoky-sweet
Sliced Cherry Tomatoes
Sweet, bright, and ready to burst
Avocado Slices
Creamy, dreamy, and necessary
Scallions (Green Onion)
Sassy, sharper, cousin of onions
Corn or Tortilla Chips
Salty, crunchy crisps of joy
Sour Cream (mine is vegan)
Cool, tangy dollop- so refreshing
HOW TO BUILD THE BOWL:
Start with butter lettuce, romaine, or arugula- make a bed in the bowl. From there, I like to go around from the center out with the ingredients. Add a big spoonful of ground beef (sometimes pork belly, grilled chicken or slices of beef). Next, I lay the corn (or tortilla) chips. I place a dollop of sour cream or fresh vegan yogurt to the bowl too. Sprinkle some seasoned cherry tomatoes as well. Avocado slices- so bright and delicious right at 12 o’clock. To complete the bowl, add the roasted corn and more tomatoes near the ground beef. Sprinkle the scallions on top of everything.
*This is NOT a salad pretending to be satisfying—it’s bold, balanced, and so very BUILT. It’s protein-packed, flavor-stacked, and photo-ready. Whether you eat it from a plate, bowl, or straight out the mixing bowl (no judgment), one thing’s for sure: this is the salad that NEVER gets left behind.
#EatYourColors. #TacoSaladGlowUp. #LiFEwirhHLuiz.
Sunday, June 8th, 2025
What an incredible day, as the National Puerto Rican Day Parade often is!! I enjoyed and had fun on my TikTok LIVE stream and to do PRESS with my wonderful company “H. Luiz Presents… “ for my NEW YouTube Channel:
LIFE with HLuiz
*tap on the NPRDP picture below to watch the HIGHLIGHTS of the parade
Tell them H. Luiz sent you!
*available exclusively on AMAZON
Meditative Art and Positive Vibes by H.Luiz Martinez
Meditative Art, Art Therapy, Mindful Art or simply just Doodling has been around since forever- they're found in caves for goodness sakes. Don't let anyone tell you any different. Create fun, easy patterns and create beautiful designs- I call them tableaus. Inside, I'll tell you how I got started (40+ years ago) and how you too can benefit from creating your own tableaus. I even show you how you can make one-of-a-kind gifts with your artwork.
Over 40 years ago, I used to doodle on everything I can get my hands on. It wasn't until I started doodling on my homemade book covers (I started with brown paper bags but graduated to white kraft paper) that people really started to notice my artwork.
Meditative Art and Positive Vibes - Colors
It’s finally here- the coloring book for Meditative Art and Positive Vibes! Some of the tableaus that I’ve done on Live Streams, some postcards that I’ve sent to you, some of the giftbags that I’ve designed and even some new designs and patterns too- all here for you to color.
A lot of you have expressed that coloring is just as therapeutic for you, so this book was created with that in mind. You may color with as many colors as you’d like or as little color as you would like as well.
Doodling, drawing and coloring kept me calm, motivated and positive- I’m sure it can do the same for you. All you need do is give it a try.
Coloring tableaus that I have already created gives me double the calm, twice the meditations and two time all the fun. There’s already a 2nd book in the works- a larger book with bigger spaces to color. Some tips and tricks to blending too. This will be out in 2025.
on AMAZON
Meditative Art and Positive Vibes Coloring Book
I wanted to introduce Meditative Art and Positive Vibes to our youth but on a level that was easy for them to understand. Creating this coloring book with the same principles and meditative properties as the 1st book was really the goal and intention.
This coloring book teaches our children to take ownership of their art work. Which in turn, gives them the very tools that they may internalize to take ownership and some responsibility over their very young lives.
When I was a child, I would color the people, animals and objects in my coloring books(s), colors that were in my imagination. People might be colored a light shade of blue or a dark shade of green with hair colored- orange or pink. Cats and dogs may be purple. The sky may be a cool red or a warm yellow tone, and the sun a bright turquoise.
The actual sky is blue of course but I couldn’t control that but I could control my coloring books though.
#AskHLuiz
We are bringing back the hashtag #askhluiz to the social media stratosphere. In your own posts and / or comments, if you ask a travel or cooking question that you want me to try to answer, use the hashtag #askhluiz and I may be able to answer your question.
Please note that all #askhluiz question may be read by anyone and everyone so please keep it cute or keep it on mute. Your question may be published or posted in Eat Your Colors magazine and / or any “H. Luiz Presents…” media channels in order to answer your question to a broader audience.
Also keep in mind: I am a Travel Journalist and a Publisher. I am not a Travel Agent. You’d be surprised how many people (strangers and friends) ask me if I can get them the best rates for said hotels and resorts. Sometimes they ask me if I can book the cheapest airfare for them too. Or they’ll say/ask: I’m celebrating my [insert milestone event her] and I have only this much [insert amount here] to spend, what’s the best you can do for me? Uhm… what??
Most times, it’s just folks wanting me to do the research for them. Don’t they have the same search engines as the rest of us? Do they have time to price check and price compare their own travel plans? Because I truly don’t. Most places I stay are complimentary because they want content creation, create a video for them or feature them.
All that being said, do not use #askhluiz to make your travel plans and / or make your travel bookings. I am not a Travel Agent.
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