My Healthy Attempts

Cinnamon Cacao Roasted Almonds

2014-06-22T05:57:00.000-07:00

Have you ever tried activated (or soaked) nuts? Let me tell you, its simple and the results are amazing! It results in a LIGHT and CRUNCHY bite!

Also - OIL FREE!!!!

Activating nuts mean that by soaking you encourage beneficial enzymes and increases the vitamins! And it makes the nuts so much easier to digest!

But thats not whole reason I do this - they taste so MUCH BETTER!!

These are the nuts - your kids will ask for!

Use in a trail mix with dried fruit and carob/dark chocolate chips

Chop and top yogurt

Chop and add to your granola

Top your breakfast oatmeal (search my amazing recipes!)

Or just eat PLAIN!

For the recipe visit veggievoodoo.com

Chocolate Chunk Cherry Almond Cookies - Gluten/Sugar/Egg/Dairy Free!

2014-05-26T11:46:00.001-07:00

I know I've been on the dessert overhaul lately on this blog!

Its the time I have the most fun and the love experimenting.

I have an amazing GREEN SMOOTHIE CAKE coming soon! We used it for my Babies First Birthday! It was amazing and everyone loved it!

But before I get ahead of myself - this one is also an amazing crowd pleaser. DO NOT BE SCARED - everyone will like these - even those who are leery of trying anything 'healthy.'

They will never know!

They are melt in your mouth amazing!!! I buy sugar free Dried Cherries online, if you aren't so picky, feel free to pick up any dried cherries you can find.

For the Recipe VISIT veggievoodoo.com!

APPLE PIE cookie dough bites!

2014-05-01T11:57:00.000-07:00

Its never the wrong time of year for Apple Pie right?

Who cares if its not late july picnics or beautiful fall weather, I'm going to enjoy Apple Pie ANYTIME!!

(for more apple pie fun try Easy Apple Pie or Apple Pie Oatmeal)

I have to say, my kids L.O.V.E.D this!

I mean - couldn't stop asking for them.

Which made me happy. All I have to do is make a huge batch, freeze, and remove for after school snacks. SOooo easy!

I can even throw them into a lunch for a healthy sweet treat!

Go ahead and try these!!! Let me know what you think!

1 C Regular Oats (gluten free if possible)

1/3 C Boiling Water

1 tsp Coconut Oil

1/2 tsp Sea Salt

1/4 tsp allspice

1 Tbsp Cinnamon

pinch of Nutmeg

1 tsp Vanilla

1/4 C Walnuts

1/4 C Pecans

1/2 LARGE Apple (honey crisp, pink lady, fuji) (or one small one)

1 Packet of Nunaturals Stevia (or 1/2 tsp) - to taste (or 1-2 Tbsp honey, for not sugar free)

Directions:

1) Put Oats in Blender or food processor and make Oat Flour

2) Mix in salt, allspice, nutmeg, and cinnamon with oat flour

3) Mix Oil into boiling water, and stir into oat mixture until it clumps together. Let sit a few minutes.

4) In food processor pulse nuts until chopped VERY small (almost a butter consistency, but not quite). Add in Apple with skin and pulse until apple is chopped. Add in Vanilla and Stevia.

5) Mix Oat mixture and apple mixture together. Either by hand or very lightly with food processor. You don't want to over process!

6) Roll into balls with hands (you may want to refrigerate a bit before doing this, but I never do). Roll into Oats.

7) Store in Fridge or Freezer for long term. I love microwaving for a few seconds to make them warm!

It seriously tastes like Apple Pie Cookie Dough!!

(If you are a fan of Candied Ginger, this would probably taste great in these!

I'm not a huge fan, but the flavors would be awesome!

3 minute Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats!

2013-06-23T20:34:00.000-07:00

Honestly - is there anything better than Chocolate and Peanut Butter!

I mean, the two complete my life!

I about die when I eye those gooey chocolate rice bars on pinterest. Amazing!

I'm sure, but I would definitely not be able to eat just one!

So to the kitchen I went! The PERFECT little treat for kids

(or afternoons when I need a mommy "pick-me-up")

I like to store them in my freezer, so I have to wait for them to thaw and it controls portion size!

But with these little babies, you won't feel as guilty if indulging wins!

Wrapped in packages and Tied with bows - anything looks cuter!

1/3 c honey

1/4 c crunchy peanut butter (all natural!)

1/4 c raw cacao powder or cocoa powder

1/2 tsp salt if pb is unsalted, or you like salt!

1/2 tsp vanilla

3/4 c puffed brown rice cereal

1/2 c regular oats

Mini Chocolate Chips or Unsweetened Carob chips (for a lower sugar option)

(ps. I like lots of salt! Salt and sweet are for me!

So lessen the salt if you want, but if you like salt - go with kosher salt! Its the best!)

Warm the Honey and Peanut Butter a little in microwave safe dish.

Stir and add the rest of ingredients.

Stir quickly and let cool a tiny bit before adding chips.

Roll into balls with hands and place in fridge until hardened

ENJOY!

Roasted Butternut Squash and Crispy Chickpea Quinoa Salad

2013-06-03T12:10:00.003-07:00

Tried and Tested!

This was a winner - for sure! Some things on pinterest flop, but I loved this one!

Its worth the extra work.

Yummy and large enough to serve for dinner, or make it on monday and eat it all week!

My kind of lunch!

Isn't it beautiful? Crispy Chickpeas are amazing with the soft, sweet squash!

Click HERE for recipe

I used Baby Kale instead of Arugula, and added feta cheese!

Enjoy!

Banana Cream Pie Quinoa Porridge

2013-05-26T19:43:00.001-07:00

Still don't know what it is with me and breakfast. When I have a weekend morning, where I can relax and not feel rushed, I love to use my morning energy to create something yummy.

Seems to start the day right. Don't you think?

This will not disappoint! Complete with Chia Seeds and Quinoa creating a protein packed superfood ensemble! 1 Cup of cooked Quinoa has only 222 calories, 8.14 grams of protein, and 3.4 grams of fat!

In this breakfast jumpstart porridge you have 12 grams of protein and 12 grams of fiber! If you are an athlete wanting more protein - feel free to add some plant based protein powder!

Be creative with your toppings! Chopped pecans or walnuts, shredded coconut (toasted would be good!), cinnamon, and sliced bananas!

Ingredients:

1 Cup Cooked Quinoa

1 mashed ripe banana

1/2 tsp Cinnamon

1/2 c Almond milk

1 Tbl Chia Seeds

Few Vanilla Stevia Drops

Pecans and unsweetened coconut for topping

Cook quinoa according to directions. Blend with remaining ingredients.

Let sit a few minutes to thicken.

Enjoy!

Toasted Coconut French Toast

2013-05-12T12:44:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like a tasty and relaxing Breakfast in Bed on Mothers Day!!??

Right?

Well I wish I could say that was the start to my day.

My husband got called in to the hospitl at 2 AM and I had the fun task of bathing 3 kids, getting them dressed for church, and having to actually do my hair today - all before 8:30 AM!

Lets just say there was a lot of crying and yelling. Ugh - we all said sorry and eventually got over it, but my Coconut French Toast was on the back of my mind all morning.

...Way would have trumped my Larabar for breakfast!

Drizzled with a tiny bit of Pure Maple Syrup (you gotta give somewhere right?)

and topped with your fruit of choice; this crunchy, toasted goodness will soon become your favorite!

And what can go wrong with Coconut? Right?

SIMPLE, IMPRESSIVE, TASTY, AND GOOD FOR YOU!

Ingredients:

3-4 eggs

1/4 C kefir, or buttermilk

2-3 Tbl almond or regular milk

1 tsp almond or coconut extract

Unsweetened shredded coconut (put in food processor to dice small)

1-2 Tbl coconut palm sugar or sugar (optional!!)

5-6 Slices of slightly stale/old Whole Wheat Bread.

(This is amazing on Great Harvests' Honey Whole Wheat, but that is candy in our house and I rarely buy it. Sprouted Whole Grain Bread, is my bread of choice. (TJ has a great option sweetened with DATES!))

Whisk the eggs, buttermilk, milk, and extract. In separate bowl mix coconut and Sugar (if using). Turn on heat on a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Dredge each slice of bread in egg mixture. I even let it sit there while each one cooks (about 2-3 minutes). Then dip bread in Coconut, covering both sides. Place on heated pan and don't touch for about 2 minutes. Flip to cook other side. It should appear lightly browned and toasted.

Top with larger pieces of coconut, walnuts, fruit, and maple syrup.

ENJOY!

Artichoke and Sun-dried Tomato Kale Salad

2013-04-29T06:35:00.003-07:00

Nothing speaks Spring like a Bright Green Salad!

I'm on a quest for some colorful new options, so stay tuned!

This salad spoke to me.

Artichoke hearts and Sun-dried tomatoes! Can't ever go wrong.

Topped with a simple dressing and parmesan cheese! You're lunch won't be disappointed!

4 cups baby kale and/or spinach

3 green onions sliced

1 large cucumber diced

1/2 c chopped sundried tomatoes

1 cup diced canned artichoke hearts

1 cup canned garbanzo beans

1/4 c Toasted pine nuts (2 minute recipe below)

Dressing:

1/4 c olive oil

2-3 Tbl balsamic vinegar

1/2 tsp Italian seasoning or oregano

1/2 tsp salt or more to taste

Combine all salad ingredients. Whisk the dressing ingredients well. Pour over salad and use hands to massage into leaves. Let sit 10 minutes to soften and let flavors blend.

Toasted Pine Nuts: Rinse well, and sprinkle Kosher Salt on them. Place in a brown paper bag. Fold over top, place in Microwave (yes I said microwave!) and cooke 1 1/2 minutes. Shake to distribute salt. They should have a slight crunch. They may need an extra 30 seconds.

ENJOY

Chocolate Cherry Bomb! Super Green smoothie

2013-04-21T18:14:00.002-07:00

2 Large Handfuls Greens (Kale, Spinach, Chard)

1/2 C Milk

1/2 C Coconut Water or Water

1/2 C Frozen Cherries

1/2 Frozen Banana

Amazing Grass Chocolate Powder

Protein powder of choice

1/2 Tbl Cacao Powder

1/2 c Unsweetened Shredded Coconut

Blend all ingredients well

Top with cacao nibs and cherries

Enjoy!

Simply Spring - Spinach Egg Pizza

2013-04-11T12:21:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love a simple, elegant, gourmet meal??

Pretty enough to serve to those guests you have coming over!

(That's always a stresser!)

This meal looks like you slaved all day, but its only minutes to prepare!

Ingredients:

prepared pizza dough, I love Trader Joes whole wheat and my local store carries a sprouted dough I LOVE

Spinach, baby or just chopped

3 Garlic cloves, sliced

1 tomato sliced

Sweet Onion Sliced

3-4 Eggs

Freshly grated parmesan cheese

chopped basil

Roll out dough and pierce with a fork all around. Cover the pizza with chopped spinach (do not go light, really cover it!). Spread sliced garlic all around along with sliced tomatoes and onions. Push the spinach down and create a little nest in each quarter of the pizza. Carefully crack the egg into the space. Cover with salt and pepper and parmesan cheese and basil.

Bake at 450, 12-15 minutes. You want the egg to still be slightly runny, if you prefer it to be cooked more, put it under the boiler for a couple minutes.

Serve in quarters so each person gets an egg. :) Enjoy!

Easter Morn - Lemon Berry Crepes

2013-03-31T08:49:00.002-07:00

Even though the skies may bring some dull gray, I was bound and determined to pretend otherwise! Just closed my eyes and focused on the birds chirping (it works!)

... I'm so ready for spring!

Nothing says spring more than LEMONS.

This time of year always brings about a citrus focus;

where ever treat, snack, meal and scented candle is lemon flavored! YUM!!

It just screams bright and sunny!

These were the perfect balance of tart, sunny lemon for me.

My husband wanted more sweet, but he always does!

For me they were the perfect combination of that tart and sweet combination.

Crepes:

1 1/2 C Milk (any milk would work)

3 Eggs

1 tsp Lemon Zest

1/4 tsp Lemon Extract

1 Tbl Fresh Lemon Juice (or more to taste)

1 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract

Dropper of Vanilla Stevia, or pinch of Stevia Powder, Or just 1 Tbl of Sugar

1 Tbl Melted Coconut Oil or Butter

1 1 1/2 C Whole Wheat Pastry Flour

Whisk wet ingredients, then slowly add flour whisking well. Heat non-stick 8-9 inch skillet over medium/low heat. Add about 1/3 cup of bater and quickly swirl the pan to cover. Let cook until you see edges curled and not wet, flip and cook for about a minut more.

Berry Syrup:

1 LARGE Orange Juiced (about 1 cup of juice)

1 C Fresh or Frozen Berries of Choice

1 Tbl Chia Seeds

Add juice and berries to small pot. Simmer for about 10 minutes. Turn of heat and smash slightly. Stir in chia seeds and let cool slightly until ready to serve.

Lemon Curd Filling:

1 C Low Fat or Fat Free Greek Yogurt

2 Tbl Raw Honey, (or more to taste)

1/2 Lemon Squeezed

1/2 tsp Lemon Extract (taste to see how much lemon you want and adjust)

Whisk all ingredients together.

Fill each Crepe with yogurt filling and fresh berries if you like. Top with Berry syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

ENJOY!

Sweet Potato Guacomole Burritos

2013-03-21T19:27:00.002-07:00

I Know I know - Another mexican/burrito option. I've been into quick dinners lately!

Easy and fast!

Ingredients

1 can black beans

1 large sweet potato, diced

1/2 onion, diced

2 cloves garlic

2-3 cups of baby kale or spinach

Small handful chopped cilantro

1 large avocado

Salsa

Whole wheat tortillas

Sauté sweet potatoes in a little coconut oil. Add garlic and kale, till its wilted. Stir in rinsed beans and cilantro. Mash avocado with a little garlic salt and salsa. Spread on tortilla. Fill tortilla with potato and bean mixture. Add cheese if you desire. Fold in one edge and roll. Place seam side down on hot pan to brown and toast. Flip. Slice and serve with guacamole, salsa, and Greek yogurt!!

Amazing Black Bean Spinach Enchiladas

2013-03-12T08:58:00.003-07:00

I was super excited when I saw this recipe on pinterest!

I altered the recipe a little bit, to give it more depth.

It was worth it!

We loved them!

Perfect Sunday meal!

Picture borrowed from the garden grazer

Ingredients

{For the sauce}

1 clove garlic

3 cups organic low sodium vegetable broth

1/4 cup tomato paste

1/4 cup all purpose flour

2 Tbsp. olive oil

2 tsp. cumin

1/4 tsp. garlic powder

1/4 tsp. onion powder

1/4 tsp. chili powder

Salt/pepper

{For the enchiladas}

1small onion, diced

1 cup chopped mushrooms

15 oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained

1 1/2 cups corn (I used frozen, thawed)

6 oz. fresh baby spinach (baby kale would be great too!)

6 green onions, thinly sliced

1 large sweet potato, cooked and diced

1/3 cup cilantro, chopped

2 tsp. cumin

1-2 cups shredded 3 cheese blend (or pepper jack, etc.) ( I used lite cheese from TJ)

8 whole wheat tortillas

Directions

Make the sauce: in a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add tomato paste, flour, 2 tsp. cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder. Cook 1 minute, whisking. Whisk in broth, bring to a boil. Reduce to simmer, and cook until slightly thickened about 8 minutes. Salt/pepper to taste, and set aside.

In a skillet, saute mushrooms in 1-2 tsp oil, until softened. Remove separate bowl.

Quick saute the spinach in olive oil over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until slightly wilted. Add to mushrooms.

In a large bowl, combine beans, 1-2 cups cheese, spinach, corn, green onions, 2 tsp. cumin, and cilantro.

Preheat oven to 375.

Lightly spray a 9x13 inch baking dish, and pour a small amount of the sauce to coat the bottom.

Generously fill tortillas with mixture, roll up tightly with ends tucked in, and place seam side down in dish.

Pour remaining sauce over the enchiladas, coating evenly. Sprinkle 1 cup (or less) cheese on top.

Bake about 20 minutes, and garnish with cilantro, avocado, salsa, greek yogurt (pseudo sour cream), and/or green onions.

Chocolate Cherry Cookies - SUGAR FREE!

2013-02-26T14:23:00.005-08:00

Our new Favorite (sugar free (shhh))

Chocolate Cherry Cookies!!

These are seriously so much better than you would think!

I was ecstatic when my husband said I could actually call these a cookie! :)

They are grain/gluten free and sugar free!!!!!

Recipe slightly adapted from wing it vegan

Ingredients

1/2 C dried unsweetened dried coconut

1/2 C Date Sugar or coconut palm sugar

1/4 C cocoa powder

1/4 tsp baking powder

1/8 tsp baking soda

Pinch salt

1/2 C almond or peanut butter

4 Tbs almond or coconut milk

1 1/2 tsp vanilla

1/2 - 3/4 C Dried Cherries!! The cherries are key! They really make the cookie.

Try to find unsweetened cherries, here is a link

Optional Add Ins: Dark Chocolate Chips ( I use cacao nibs for a sugar free crunch instead), toasted Macadamia Nuts - chopped, White Chocolate Chips - would be amazing if you weren't too concerned about sugar, Dried Cherries!! The cherries are key! They really make the cookie.

Try to find unsweetened cherries, here is a link

Bake at 375, 15 minutes

(I flattened my slightly before baking)

If you can hold out - put them in a paper bag and let sit overnight.

They taste way better the next day!

Kid Meal - Easy Oven Baked Fish Sticks!

2013-02-18T08:17:00.003-08:00

Easy, Easy and KID FRIENDLY!

My kids seriously devour these when I make them. I've always wanted to try freezing them and warming them up quickly for dinner, but we NEVER have leftovers!!

Ingredients:

1 C Cornmeal

1 C White Whole Wheat Flour (or gluten free blend)

1/2 C Grated Fresh Parmesan Cheese (or more if you like)

1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper

3/4 tsp Garlic Powder

1/2 tsp Salt

3 Eggs

About 1 1/2 pounds of preferred white fish (tilapia, halibut, etc)

Directions:

1) Oven to 450

2) In One bowl combine all dry ingredients

3) In another shallow bowl whisk eggs.

4) Slice fish into chunks or 1 inch strips

5) Place each strip into flour mixture, then dip in eggs, then coat fully in flour mixture again. You may have to rinse your hands in-between to keep them from getting slathered, I just use a fork and spoon to dredge the fish with coating.

6) Place on greased cookie sheet in an even layer. Bake for about 10 minutes, until crispy. You may have to spritz with olive oil half way through if they look too dry.

Serve with Homemade Ketchup!!

Naturally sweetened/grain free chocolate chip cookies!

2013-02-09T15:25:00.000-08:00

Nothing like a yummy, Naturally Sweetened Chocolate Chip cookie!

Not to mention, grain free and full of protein and fiber!

I'm really into Date Sugar right now!

Been having fun finding ways to use it!

Ingredients:

1 can garbanzo beans (drained and rinsed)

1/2 cup quick oats (or certified-gf quick oats)

1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce

1 tbsp oil (canola, veg, or coconut)

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

1/4 tsp baking soda

1 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

1 cup Date Sugar, or soaked dates blended

3/4 cup unsweetened carob chips or mini Choco chips

1/4 c milk, only add if batter seems dry

Put all ingredients in food processor and pulse until blended well.

Add extra choco chips at the end if you want a little crunch.

Place into greased muffin tins and bake at 350 for about 7-9 minutes.

Naturally Sweetened Banana Bread

2013-01-26T18:03:00.003-08:00

You will not be disappointed This is very moist and no one would guess there is

no REFINED SUGAR OR HONEY!!

Its all natural which makes me happy.

I was even more happy that my husband LOVED it - he's my toughest critic!

Or make muffins for a HEALTHY breakfast on the go!

I 've also thrown them into lunch boxes

1 1/4 cup dried dates (about 7 ounces), pitted and soaked in about 1 cup milk

2 Tablespoons coconut oil melted

1 large eggs, at room temperature

1flax egg (1 Tbl of ground flaxseed mixed with 1/4 cup water. Let sit 10 minutes)

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce or cinnamon applesauce

1 Tablespoon pure vanilla extract

2 cups white whole wheat flour

1/2 teaspoon fine grain sea salt

1 teaspoon aluminum-free baking soda

1/2 teaspoon aluminum-free baking powder

1tsp cinnamon

3 large, ripe bananas, mashed

1/2 cup raw walnuts or pecans, coarsely chopped

1/4 cup raisins , opt.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9 x 5 x 3 loaf pan.
Place the dates in a mixing bowl and cover with milk. Let sit at least one hour (or overnight). Blend. Add to kitchen aid or mixer.
Turn the mixer on low speed and blend
Add the oil and beat until well blended. Add the eggs ad flaxseed egg, beating well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix.
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Add to the oil-date mixture and mix until just combined.
Fold in the mashed bananas and walnuts.
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out barely clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Remove from the pan and cool on a rack. For muffins I only did about 20 minutes.

I store on counter for a couple days then into the fridge for about 3-5 days.

Cream-less Broccoli Soup- kid favorite!

2013-01-21T20:32:00.001-08:00

This is a favorite for our family.

SO SO FAST AND EASY!

My kids call it monster soup! It's simple and packed with nutrients!

Click HERE for the recipe

I just use veggie broth and top with avocados, pumpkin seeds or pine nuts, and a little Parmesan

ENJOY!

BEST of 2012

2013-01-09T18:02:00.000-08:00

Here are our Favorites and Most Popular from the Year (in no particular order)!

1) Lemon Broccoli Pesto

Ingredients:
Large Head of Broccoli and Stems roughly chopped

(or two small heads) (reserve some for topping pasta)

1 C Sunflower Seeds (soaked for an hour if possible)

1/4 C Pine Nuts

Large Handful of Fresh Parsley or Basil

1/2 Lemon, Juice and Zest

1 Large Clove Garlic

Small Handful of Parmesan Cheese (optional - put how much you want!)

1-2 tsp Sea Salt (to taste)

Put all ingredients in food processor, and blend until combined.

While in processor, drizzle in 2 Tbl Milk, 1 Tbl Olive Oil, and about 1/4 C water. Watch it closely until you get the consistency you want.

Mix with Whole Wheat Pasta and top with Some Broccoli And optional Parmesan Cheese and/or Pine Nuts.

I mixed my pesto with Zunchinni Noodles, made with a sprilalizer. YUM!

2) Almond Quinoa Granola Bars

(refined sugar free)

WOW!

Talk about a power food bar! Quinoa is GREAT for you, just one 3.5 oz serving provides 12-15 g of protein!

Inspiration taken from Anja's Food 4 Thought

Ingredients:
1/4 C Uncooked Quinoa

1/4 C Ground Flax Seed

1/2 scoop of protein powder (optional)

1/2 tsp Sea Salt

1/4 Dried Dates (about 5)

1/3 C Dried Prunes (about 8)

1/4 C Raisins

3/4 C whatever nuts seeds you want (pumpkin, sunflower, almonds, walnuts, etc)

Banana sweetener (recipe below)

1 C Old Fashioned Rolled Oats (GF if needed)

Place above ingredients (except banana sweetener and oats) in food processor, pulse until combined well.

Banana Sweetener:

In small pot mash 2 VERY ripe bananas and 1/4 C Almond Butter. Cook over low heat until well combined. (not too long)

Add Banana mixture to nut mixture, and pulse until combined.

Add 1 C Old Fashioned Rolled Oats (gluten free optional) and pulse just barely until combined, don't over process.

Spread in bread pan lined with parchment and bake at 350 for about 25 minutes.

Let cool and slice into bars.

3) Homemade Wheat Thins

I was SOOO excited to find this recipe!! I have always loved wheat Thins, but stopped buying them, trying to rid myself of processed food! These are a GReaT replacement and taste very similar! I am going to keep experimenting to create a fat free and gluten free version.

(I'll let you know!)

THese are WAY easier and more simple than my trusty Graham Crackers,

so this might be my new go to for snacks!

Dip in Hummus, or Edamame Hummus or Guac!

Click HERE for the recipe

4) Whole Grain Blueberry Scones

Great for Guests, Holidays, or Sunday Mornings!

You could easily make the dough the night before and let sit in fridge until ready to cook.

Ingredients:

3/4 C Fat Free Plain Greek Yogurt

1 Egg

1 1/2 C Spelt Flour (or Whole Wheat Pastry Flour)

1/2 C All Purpose (or Whole wheat Flour)

1/2 C Old Fashioned Oats

4 tsp Baking Powder

1/2 tsp Baking Soda

1/2 tsp Salt

1 tsp Stevia Powder (or 1/4 C Honey/or Maple Syrup or Brown Sugar (you choose!))

4 oz. Unsweetened Applesauce

1 C Berries - fresh or frozen ( I did blueberries, raspberries would be amazing!)

Orange Sweetened Cranberries (bulk bins)

Zest of 1 Orange

Juice of 1 Orange

1 Banana (melted in microwave)

Whisk Egg and Yogurt and set aside. Combine Flours, oats, Baking Powder, Soda, Salt, and stevia (if using a liquid sweetener blend into yogurt). Use a fork and add applesauce, juice, and mashed melted banana to bowl. Mash with a fork until crumbly. Add yogurt mixture to dough. Use fork to combine. Just stir until combined. Fold in Berries and Cranberries.

Place dough in fridge at least 1/2 hour or overnight. Form about 1/4 c of dough into 1 inch thick circles (or thick balls - whatever you prefer) on greased sheet or silpat.

Cook at 375 for about 16 minutes. (15-20)

5) Peanut Thai Un-Pasta!!!

Definitely something I can make for company or to impress!

My Family FREAKED over this!

Husband calling it NUMBER ONE! (I was shocked!)

Un- Pasta:

2 Tbl shredded Fresh Ginger

2 Cloves Garlic, Minced

3 Large Carrots, Chopped -or a big handful of shredded Carrots

3 Baby Bok Choy Diced

3-4 Green Onions, Diced (reserve a little bit of the green parts for garnish)

1-2 Large Handfuls of Sugar Snap Peas

1 VERY LARGE Zuchinni (spiralized or cut into thin matchsticks, or use a vegetable peeler to get skinny linguini noodles, or you could even grate them!)

1/4 C Vegetable Broth for Sautéing

Get Broth hot in big stir fry pan, add all vegetables but zuchini. Cover with lid, stirring every once and while, until they soften. Stir in Zuchini, and turn to low heat.

Sauce:

1/3 C All Natural Peanut Butter

1/3 C (or a tiny less) Brown Rice Syrup

1/2 tsp Sesame Oil

1/4 C Nama Shoyu or Good Quality Soy Sauce

2 Tbl Rice Vinegar

2 Tbl CornStarch

Blend all ingredients together with a whisk until well combined. Add to vegetables and bring to a low simmer until it thickens.

Served over Brown Rice or even better Brown Rice and Quinoa mixture.

Garnish:

Sunflower Sprouts (or any kind you like), Sirachi Sauce (increase your metabolism), Green Onions, Diced Peanuts or Slivered Almonds, and Cilantro!

6) Skinny Cookie

I was excited to try this one!

Grain Free and Low Sugar!

Recipe HERE (texanerin)

7) Banana Chocolate chip Muffins and Banana Oat Pancakes (couldn't decide!)

I was so excited to try this recipe when I saw it! They just looked delectable!

I made a few changes to cut sugar and fat, and ended up with a tasty, moist, fiber full, protein packed, perfect muffin! It's also GLUTEN FREE! Which means it will be easier for you to digest and easier on your stomach.

adapted from HERE

Ingredients:

1 C Ground Flaxseed

1 1/4 C Oat Flour (oats ground in blender)(GF if need be!)

1/2 scoop of any protein powder (optional)

1/4 C Sucanat

1 tsp Powdered Stevia

2 tsp Baking Powder

1/2 tsp Baking Soda

1/2 tsp Xanthum Gum

1 tsp Cinnamon

2 Ripe Bananas, mashed well

2 Eggs

1/4 C Cinnamon Applesauce Unsweetened

1/4 C Skim, 1%, or Almond Milk

1/2-1 C Dark Chocolate chips, or unsweetened carob chips (to lower sugar even more)

Whisk all dry ingredients in one bowl (except choco chips). And whisk all wet ingredients in separate bowl. Combine the two together and mix just until combined. Fold in Chocolate chips.

Bake at 325 for 25 minutes. LET COOL - they are pretty moist

Makes one dozen

6 Grams of protein per muffin!

Banana Oat Pancakes

Ingredients:

1 1/2 C Soymilk (or any milk)

3/4 C White Whole wheat Flour (or GF - Buckwheat/Oat flour)

2 tsp Baking Powder

1/2 tsp Baking Soda

1/2 tsp Kosher Salt

1/4 C Flaxseed Meal

3/4 C Uncooked Rolled Oats

1/4 C Cranberries

2 Tbl Sunflower Seeds

1/2 Banana

Blend all ingredients in blender, just until combined. If you have time to let batter sit 5-10 minutes, its a little better.

Seriously so many others I could not choose from!

Runners Up:

Orange pistachio granola bars - RAW and no sugar added!

No bake Cookies and Peanut Butter Cookies

Chipotle Black Bean Soup!

Frozen Pumpkin Waffles

Fluffy Coconut Almond Oatmeal

New Year...New You - Easy Steps

2013-01-08T19:37:00.000-08:00

So I have been out with the flu for the first part of the year. Yuck!

I NEVER get sick and HATE It when I am.

But I wanted to re-post some info on how to START a healthier year, with some easy steps.

BASIC TIPS FOR:

I get A LOT of questions of how to start eating healthy. How to switch your lifestyle and incorporate better habits. Of course there are many levels of healthy eating, simple to extreme. I have become more and more extreme over the years (according to the hubby!).

But there's always a place to start, and things to do, if you don't want it to take over your life. :)

1) Extremely limit or throw White Flour. Besides acting the lack of fiber and acting like sugar in your body, it's extremely processed and has no health benefits! (besides bulking up the thighs) :) and making you want more and more. Replace white Flour with White Whole Wheat flour (king arthur), or even better, try bean flours, oat flour, or spelt flour is my favorite right now. You can usually replace a 1:1 ratio. Sometimes I lessen the sugars to make sure I don't over sweeten it.

2) Replace the Sugar with natural Sugar Alternatives or sweet fruit. I use Raw Honey and prefer Date Honey or Date Sugar. I have to admit -this is hard! It takes a while to really get your body used to being off and not craving this stuff. Check out my treat section for more options.

3) Add more whole grains. Try replacing white pasta with whole grain pasta. Barilla is a great option. For even better options, (which can be pricey), try spelt noodles, buckwheat noodles (for stir frys or soup), quinoa noodles. Use brown rice or quinoa, instead of white rice.

4) LIMIT or eliminate PROCESSED FOOD: SODA (that is my number one things everyone should be off!), Crackers, granola bars, chips, fruit snacks, boxed meals, even meat! etc. Just eliminating these things alone will make you healthier.

5) Try limiting your dairy. By adding Green Smoothies and more veggies to your diet, you DO NOT have to worry about loss of calcium! Dairy is hard on your stomach and really not that great for you! I drink almond milk and eat greek yogurt (sometimes) and kefir. Sometimes I have feta cheese. You decide the right amount for you.

6) Try cutting out oils and eating more nuts, nut butters, avocado's. And LITTLE amounts of Coconut Oil.

7) If you aim for a pound of raw vegetables (green smoothies count) and a pound of cooked vegetables in a day - you will be off to a great start and healthier lifestyle! Make a big batch of soups for lunch and try to add a salad to dinner every night.

For ideas of how to get started check out my Recipes.
I follow a guideline of always trying to eat healthy inside of my home,
when we go out, I make the best choice I can make, but don't stress about it. Have fun!

I love the book Eat To Live - great suggestions!!

Please ask if you have questions! :)

There is a print button on each post for your convenience. :)

Simple/All purpose Butternut Squash Sauce

2012-12-27T20:41:00.003-08:00

pic borrowed from Here

pic borrowed from HERE

1 Large butternut squash, or 1 1/2 pounds cubed squash

1/4 Cup Milk (or more if you want it creamier)

Coarse Salt and Pepper to Taste

1 Tbl Honey

1/4 C Chopped Fresh Basil

If you want a more "cheezier" tasting sauce and less sweet. Omit the honey, add about 1/4 c of Brewers yeast (or nutritional yeast), and 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder.

Steam the squash till soft, puree with the rest of ingredients.

THAT'S IT!! You'll love it!

I eat as pizza sauce (with feta, cranberries, sauteed spinach or baby kale, toasted walnuts, onions), over baked potatoes (sweet potatoes are amazing with it!), green beans, chicken if you like, and pasta!!

Really it can be used anywhere!! Let your imagination have fun!

Gingerbread Breakfast Cake in 5 minutes!

2012-12-18T10:46:00.005-08:00

I'm sorta in love with gingerbread and nutmeg lately! I'm going insane with the ideas!

Coconut Nutmeg bites, Nutmeg milkshakes, gingerbread cookies! YUM!

Here is a little taste of gingerbread in a bowl!

Its fast, healthy, can be gluten free, and FUN for breakfast!!

AND YOU COOK IT IN THE MICROWAVE!

Ingredients:

1/4 C Oats or Oat Bran

2 Tbl Flour (preferably White whole wheat or GF)

2 Tbl Buckwheat Groats (I find these in bulk bins)

1 Tbs Flaxseed ground

pinch Salt

1/4-1/2 tsp ginger (depending on how much you like)

1/2 tsp Cinnamon

pinch Nutmeg

1 tsp Vanilla

1/2 Tbl Molasses

1/2 Tbl Maple Syrup (or more to taste)

2 Tbl Canned Pumpkin Puree

1/4 C Milk

1/4 C Raisins

Mix all dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately Then add to a medium sized glass or microwaveable bowl (that is sprayed with non-stick spray). Cook for about 3-4 minutes in microwave. It becomes spongy and cake-like around the outside and slightly soft in the middle. Let cool for a few minutes, pour upside down on a plate. Top with Bananas, nuts of choice, and milk if you like.

Homemade Corn Dog Muffins!

2012-12-09T08:15:00.001-08:00

Easy and Fun for the kids!!!
Lunch or Dinner!
I try to do something they will really like once and while. :)

Ingredients:
4-6 whole tofu (I use smart dogs) or turkey dogs (your choice)
⅔ cup cornmeal
⅓ cup whole wheat pastry flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp paprika
1 Tbl Stoneground Spicy Mustard
a dash of Garlic Powder
a dash of Onion Powder
¼ tsp Black Pepper
1 Egg
1/3- ⅔ cup plant-based milk
1 tbsp Sugar

Directions:

1) Oven at 425.

2) Mix dry ingredients first, than incorporate the wet. Add the milk last until you have a creamy, but not too wet consistency. Slice the dogs in thirds, pour a little batter (1 Tbl) into sprayed mini muffin pan. Squish in Dog and then Cover with some more batter. Don't over fill.

3) Bake for about 15-18 minutes. Until lightly browned. Serve with Ketchup and Mustard!

More Dessert?? Yes please! - Mint Fudge Brownies

2012-12-02T17:10:00.002-08:00

Mint Fudgy Brownies

(that's what my kids named them)

BRING ON THE HOLIDAYS! It's so hard isn't it???

I am obsessed with chocolate and mint. I wanted to find a grain free, sugar free, low fat, high protein treat that satisfied this craving.

THIS WORKED! My kids actually downed them as well.

And you will freak over the the recipe!!

Just make sure you keep the secret ingredient HUSH HUSH or people will not even try them!!

Inspired by Joel Furhman's Black Bean Brownies

Ingredients:

1 Can no-salt-added or low-sodium black beans, drained

10 Medjool dates, (the big ones - I get them at costco)

2 tbsp raw almond butter (if you want to do peanut feel free)

1 tsp vanilla

1/4-1/2 tsp Mint Extract, (to your taste)

1/2 cup natural, non-alkalized cocoa powder

1 tbsp ground chia seed

Add first five ingredients to food processor. Process until smooth. Then add remaining ingredients.

Pour into a 8x8, lightly greased pan. Spread with a spatula. (they will be thick)

(I even think you could roll in balls and roll in cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or coconut and they would be delightful!)

Bake at 200 for 1 1/2 hours.

Cool COMPLETELY before slicing.

I served with my

Quick - Go To - in a flash Ice 'Milk' Cream

I don't have exact measurements, I Just throw it in.

As an estimate

1 Cup of Ice

3/4 C Milk

1 Frozen, chopped, banana

1 tsp vanilla or almond extract

Stevia, optional- if you want it sweeter

Blend and serve right on top!

This would be great with my low fat chocolate ganache. It's not sugar free, but it's tasty for a ganache!

Click HERE

Awesome Peanut Butter Cookies

2012-11-18T08:23:00.000-08:00

Healthy and Delish!

The Perfect after-school snack!

Recipe adapted from HERE

Wet:

1/4 C All Natural Almond Butter

1/2 C All Natural Peanut Butter (or just do all one nut butter if you want)

1/2 C Fat Free Plain Greek Yogurt

1/2 C Coconut Palm Sugar

2 Tbl Strawberry low sugar Jam (I like TJ's)

1/2 tsp Vanila Extract

2 Tbl milk

1 Tbl Chia seeds mixed with 1/4 C water (let sit ten minutes!)

Dry:

3/4 tsp Baking Soda

1/4 tsp Salt

1 1/2 C Regular Oats

1/2 C Whole Wheat Pastry Flour

Blend wet and dry seperately and combine, mix just until combined.

We added 1/4 C Mini Chocolate Chips (just for fun!)

400 degrees for 7 minutes. Flatten a little before you put them in the oven.

Cool right away and completely