This week on The?Maria?Liberati?Show, we explore how nature nourishes both body and mind. My guests — April?Thompson, a passionate forager and food writer, and Oscar?Trelles, author of The?Human?OS?Manual — share how reconnecting with the natural world can transform the way we live, eat, and think.

April?Thompson brings her deep knowledge of wild foods and sustainable living, showing how foraging can be a mindful practice that awakens creativity and gratitude. She reminds us that every forest, field, and garden holds edible treasures waiting to be discovered — and that learning to identify them helps us rediscover our place in the ecosystem.

Oscar?Trelles offers a fascinating perspective on human potential through his book The?Human?OS?Manual. He explores how understanding our “operating system” — the way we process experiences, emotions, and energy — can help us live more consciously and harmoniously. His insights pair beautifully with April’s approach to foraging, creating a conversation that bridges nature, science, and self-awareness.

Together, we discuss how tuning into the rhythms of the earth and our own inner systems can lead to a more balanced, inspired life — one that celebrates both nourishment and knowledge.

So we talked about foraging for many ingredients but especially Dandelion Greens. Here is a recipe you can use

?? Dandelion Greens Soup

A rustic, spring-inspired recipe celebrating nature’s edible gifts.

?? Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh dandelion greens, washed and chopped
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or light chicken broth)
• 1 medium potato, peeled and cubed (for creaminess)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmigiano-Reggiano

?? Directions

1. In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. 1. Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent and fragrant.
   2. Stir in the potato cubes and cook for 2–3?minutes.
   3. Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle boil.
   4. Add the dandelion greens, reduce heat, and simmer for about 10–12?minutes until the greens and potatoes are tender.
   5. Blend the soup lightly with an immersion blender for a creamy texture (or leave it chunky for a rustic feel).
   6. Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
   7. Serve warm, drizzled with olive oil and topped with shaved Parmigiano if desired.

   ?? Story Tip

   Dandelions are among the first greens of spring — slightly bitter, deeply nourishing, and symbolic of renewal. This soup captures that spirit perfectly, turning a humble wild plant into a refined, comforting dish.

?? Listen to the full episode on The?Maria?Liberati?Show or wherever you stream podcasts.