What is Teresa Carles and Flax & Kale?
Teresa Carles and Flax & Kale represent a unique culinary vision that blends tradition, flavor, and healthy living. Originating from a humble beginning in 1979 and evolving into a symbol of innovative vegetarian cooking, the project is deeply rooted in the values of healthy food, quality ingredients, and sustainable practices. The ethos is built on the belief that taking care of one’s health need not be boring or demanding—deliciously healthy recipes are at the heart of the initiative. Chef Teresa Carles, a self-made culinary expert with over 35 years of experience, leads this journey by creating recipes inspired by traditional Catalan cuisine and perfected through a passion for natural and local products. With an online store and a healthy flexitarian restaurant that serves up 80% plant-based dishes alongside a touch of oily fish, the project continuously challenges norms while always celebrating the best that land and nature have to offer.
Main Benefits and Key Figures
Key facts about this project highlight its impact and dedication, as shown in the following points:
- Over 140 employees passionate about innovative healthy food.
- An established R&D&I team committed to improving life quality through nutrition, knowledge, and technology.
- More than 35 years of hands-on experience in vegetable and natural products.
- A blend of living tradition and modern healthy practices, incorporating local produce that emphasizes seasonality and sustainability.
- Culinary offerings that combine the best of flavorful ingredients with the promotion of disease-free, fulfilling health.
Tasty and Healthy Culinary Experience
At its core, the project is about creating a deliciously healthy experience. The belief that healthy food can be both tasty and practical has led to recipes designed to satisfy the palate with maximum organoleptic pleasure. By using the best seasonal fruits and vegetables—farm-produced whenever possible—the culinary approach emphasizes that a proper diet should not feel like a sacrifice but rather a delightful opportunity to nurture body and soul. The casual, engaging spirit is evident in every dish, inviting those who crave not just flavor but also nutritional value to enjoy a meal that makes them feel lighter and happier.
Innovative Approach in Vegetarian Cuisine
The project shines as a model of vegetarian and healthy cuisine in Barcelona and beyond. It started with a dream in a small village in Algerri, Lleida, where Teresa Carles was born into a humble farming family, directly connected to nature and the land. Drawing inspiration from her roots and influenced by traditional family recipes, Teresa embraced a natural and healthy diet—a journey that led her to travel across Europe and the USA, exploring vegetarian culinary trends. Such explorations enriched her expertise and set the stage for the creation of one of the country’s leading vegetarian restaurants, a pioneering venture in healthy breakfasts, brunches, and continuous kitchen services that operate from 12 to 24 hours.
Tradition Meets Modern Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is not just a buzzword here; it is a way of life. Deeply connected to the countryside and the traditions of Catalan cuisine, the project upholds environmentally friendly practices by sourcing local produce, favoring organic and seasonal ingredients, and even farming seasonal fruits and vegetables when possible. The emphasis is on maintaining a healthy balance between tradition and modernity while ensuring that every meal contributes to both personal wellness and environmental sustainability. Suitable for those who appreciate culinary artistry in every bite, the project proves that a vibrant, sustainable diet is achievable without compromise.
Celebrating a Rich Culinary Heritage
Teresa Carles is not only a name but a legacy. The project tells the story of a woman whose childhood in a small village among olive trees, wheat fields, and gardens inspired her lifelong commitment to healthy, vegetarian cooking. Over the decades, her dedication transformed a small restaurant, Paradís de Lleida, into an influential culinary hub. Each dish is a tribute to her family’s heritage, refined with modern sensibilities and a passion for innovation. This dedication ensures that the heritage of Catalan cuisine is celebrated in every bite, reviving memories of home-cooked meals and the craft of artisanal food preparation.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 2 – Zero Hunger: Promoting access to nutritious food that contributes to a healthy, balanced diet.
- SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being: Emphasizing the link between proper nutrition and disease-free, robust health.
- SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production: Prioritizing local and organic products while reducing food waste.
- SDG 13 – Climate Action: Supporting sustainable farming practices and environmentally friendly methods.
- SDG 15 – Life on Land: Enhancing biodiversity through the favoring of local produce and the preservation of natural food sources.
A Journey of Healthy Living and Continuous Innovation
The tale of Teresa Carles and Flax & Kale is one of evolution, growth, and the unyielding pursuit of a healthier lifestyle. Whether it is through an extensive collection of food products ranging from olive oil and olives to jams, vinegars, and even a curated selection of wines, the project blends traditional recipes with modern innovation. With a clear motto of “Eat Better, Be Happier, Live Longer,” the initiative champions a lifestyle that rejects dogma and embraces the natural flavors of the land. This continuous innovation is also reflected in their biannual menu changes, aiming to keep vegetarian cooking attractive and accessible. With every dish served and every product offered, the project reaffirms its commitment to quality, sustainability, and above all, a passion for good, natural food… a journey that truly celebrates the art of living well.
