Vanilla Candied Brussels and Pistachio Peppered Beef topped with a Poached Egg – Serves 4

I can pretty much add an egg to everything…  And I do.   As previously mentioned, throw out the notion that eggs and their yolks are bad for you…  Totally yesterday’s news.

Egg yolks contain MORE nutrients than an egg white.  Egg whites have fewer calories and protein compared to the whole egg.  However the yolk provides extra protein along with micronutrients that include iron, phosphorus, zinc, and folate, and the fatty vitamins (A, D, E, and K).  The B-complex vitamins found in whole eggs include biotin, selenium, and choline which are crucial during the creation of the human nervous system as well as its maintenance throughout the lifespan.  

These are two incredibly easy recipes to make and/or keep for leftovers during the week.  As I always say, leftovers always taste best, plus you don’t have to lift a finger.  Basically I made both recipes and then consecutively layered them with a poached egg on top.  This can be made at breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner…  Brunch was my poison of choice.

Vanilla Candied Brussels

Ingredients: 

  • 1# Brussels sprouts, quartered
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
  • 2 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • About 1 tbsp/enough to grease a cooking sheet – coconut oil or EVOO

Methodology:

  1. Pre-heat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Grease a cooking sheet with coconut oil or EVOO.
  3. In a mixing bowl combine the Brussels sprouts, vinaigrette, vanilla extract, and spices, then lay out evenly on the cooking sheet.
  4. Roast in the oven for 20 minutes or until desired texture is achieved (less than 20 minutes for more moisture or greater than 20 minutes for crispiness).  At the cooking half point, utilize a spatula and lightly toss the Brussels to ensure that all sides are cooked well.
  5. Remove from oven, set aside for use, or cool down and store.

 

Pistachio Peppered Beef

Ingredients:

  • 1# beef, ground (98% lean)
  • 1/2 cup yellow and red bell peppers, diced
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced and minced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, minced
  • 1/4 cup pistachios (make sure all the shells are removed – you don’t want broken teeth)
  • 2 sweet potatoes, diced/minced/chopped
  • 2 tbsp garlic, minced
  • About 1 tbsp/enough to grease a frying pan – coconut oil or EVOO
  • Spices to taste (2-3 shakes):  Cumin, paprika, curry powder, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and black pepper
  • Optional:  Salt

Methodology:

  1. Drizzle coconut oil or EVOO in a frying pan under medium-high heat.
  2. Toss into the frying pan onions, sweet potatoes, cilantro, and garlic, and mix well for about 3-5 minutes or until onions are golden.
  3. Add pistachios,peppers, spices, and ground beef to the pan.  Sautee for 10-15 minutes until beef is well cooked or has met an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit (this is the minimum temperature set by the USDA to kill E-Coli).
  4. Set aside to add to a meal or cool down to store.

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Poached Egg

Ingredients:

  • 4 whole Eggs
  • 2 cups water or just enough to cover the egg
  • 1 tsp white vinegar
  • Pinch of sea salt

Methodology:

  1. In a saucepan bring water to a boil then reduce to a simmer.
  2. Add a pinch of salt and white vinegar.
  3. Drop one egg in and using a large spoon whip the water around the egg in circular motion until the whites are close to the yolk.  Cook for about 2 minutes then remove and repeat with the remainder eggs.
  4. Serve atop the layered Vanilla Candied Brussels and Pistachio Ground Beef.
  5. Don’t forget to poke the yolk for extra taste!

 

xxx – Sarah

Wellness Travel Essentials

If you’re anything like me – airports can be stressful when trying to stick to your meal plans or stay within a budget.  Let’s face it, $5.50-7.00+ for a 16-24 ounce water bottle is legit nuts.  Since air pressure can lead to migraines – I try to limit my sugar intake which would only aid and abet.   As a frequent flier fanatic, I’ve perfected my travel routine, and compiled some travel secrets that will help you to eat and drink like a champion.

  1. Reusable tumbler or water bottle (24 ounces+):  Most airports have begun to go green and offer water re-fill stations thus locate em and start walking!  This is a great way to save on expensive water purchases.
  2. Snack sandwich bags:  Great for portioning your food.  I always say – eat half on the departure trip and save the other half for the return trip.  These are some great items to toss/mix into sandwich bags:
    1. Beef or turkey jerky:  Great way to consume lean protein when on the road.  I opt for either the Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s brand of basic jerky.  I love the teriyaki versions but then that means more additives – so no.  Pick and choose your poison.
    2. Nuts:  I love pistachios that are shelled since they keep my fingers busy during the long flights.  Raw nuts are also a great option (almonds, cashews, pistachios, macadamia, etc.) if you’re doing work or want an easy munch.
    3. Plantain chips:  Great alternative to regular potato chips and are usually just seasoned with S&P – for these, I usually go to the bulk section of Whole Foods or buy the packaged version(s) from Trader Joe’s then re portion into a sandwich bag.
    4. Protein powder:  Pre-portion one full scoop for mixing later during the trip to help meet your protein needs if you are not a meat eater nor wanting to open up a can of stinky beans or fish.
  3. Protein bars:  I love nut/fruit bars especially those gluten and dairy-free.  When choosing bars opt for those above 5-7 grams of protein and less than 10 grams of sugar.  There are SO many out there but my favorites include: Kind and RXBAR.
  4. Sealed bag of cucumbers, basil, mint, or berries:  This is an easy way to make your plain water more ‘artisanal’ when on the road and not wanting to opt for powders such as Crystal Lite.

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Happy and Safe Travels Y’all!

xxx – Sarah

Nutty Chocolate Drops – Serves 10

This has quickly become my favorite go to when I have a sweet tooth…  It’s free of the major food inflammatory agents aka gluten, peanuts, eggs, and dairy.  Another winning bullet point is that it’s free of white refined sugar and its sweetness is derived from dates.

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Medjool dates are a great fruit to add sweetness to a dish without reaching for processed sugar or its alternatives.  Unlike other fruits, its nutrient content lacks vitamins A and C.  However they are a great source of energy due to their carbohydrate/sugar content, potassium (dates beat bananas in this department), and soluble fiber.  Therefore if you’re making a smoothie pre-or post-workout be sure to add a date or two!  Now, this may be a bit TMI but if you’re constipated be sure to add some dates into your life!  The dates work as a great solidifying agent to give your bowels a push.

Let’s get down to business.  If you are craving the sweets instantaneously, the good news is that this tastes phenomenal without being cooked and is safe for consumption.  However, if you can wait a few minutes – pop these drops into the oven for 5-10 minutes!  Also, good news, if you’re not a chocolate person that’s okay because these drops taste amazing without it!

Ingredients:

  • 3 tbsp. coconut oil; melted
  • 1 cup cashews; soaked and strained (try to soak for 10-15 minutes)
  • 1 tbsp almond butter; crunchy or creamy (unsalted and aim for crunchy for some texture)
  • 1/3 cup oatmeal; dried
  • 3-4 medjool dates; remove the pits
  • 2 tbsp coconut flour
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • OPTIONAL but highly recommended: 1/3 cup milk or dark chocolate mini chips
  • To taste: sea salt (I added about 1-2 pinches)

Methodology:

  1. Utilizing a food processor, combine all ingredients BUT the chocolate chips.  Pulse until blended then transfer to a mixing bowl.
  2. Add in the chocolate chips and stir well until the mixture appears uniform.
  3. On a piece of parchment paper, create small drops/balls using a tablespoon and/or your hands to mold.  Set each drop/ball about a ‘thumb’ of distance between each other.
  4. If you want to eat right away – do so.
  5. If you want to wait and cook em – Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 5-10 minutes until golden then set aside to cool.
  6. If you want to wait and have em cold – place in the refrigerator and nibble when ready.
  7. It’s time for some dates in your life.

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xxx – Sarah

 

Pomegranate Spiked Strawberry Bacon Dates – Serves 7

The holidays are winding down but with the colder weather still upon us the parties continue thus New Years resolutions beware aka ‘damned if you and damned if you don’t.’   Who said you have to start the new year without a taste of heaven?  Just choose wisely try not to go back for seconds.  This is my favorite appetizer creation of 2016 so far!

Tips to prevent overeating:

  • Select a dessert plate whose diameter excluding the rim is 4-5 inchesIMG_4127
  • Only one plate serving aka only one trip to load the plate
  • Keep everything on the surface of the plate rather than creating piles
  • Food should not graze the rim (#thestruggleisreal)

 

Recently when visiting Gruene, Texas, I came across a fabulous shop called The Gruene Olive: Tasting Room – just opened about 2 weeks prior to Christmas and is the perfect space to grab a tasting and leave with goodies for families and friends.  This delicious recipe utilizes their Pomegranate – Quince White Balsamic Vinegar!

Benefits of Balsamic Vinegar:  1) Low in calories, high in antioxidants called polyphenols, and 3) Low in sugar/low glycemic index.

Ingredients:

  • 7 medjool dates; sliced into quarters
  • 9 slices of bacon; trimmed (remove the fatty white areas)
  • 3-4 large berries; sliced from the bottom up then halved
  • 2-3 tbsp pomegranate-quince white balsamic vinegar; for drizzling
  • Cooking tools recommended for best results and easy clean-up: parchment paper and toothpicks

Methodology:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. On a baking sheet place add a piece of parchment paper.
  3. Combine one strawberry slice with a medjool date slice then wrap with bacon.  Only use just enough bacon to wrap then cut and use the remainder of the bacon for the next date/strawberry combo.  After cutting the bacon and wrapping the date/strawberry then secure with a toothpick.  Repeat until all the dates are gone.
  4. Drizzle the wrapped dates with the balsamic vinegar.
  5. Cook for 25-30 minutes until browned or until the aroma cannot be resisted.
  6. Chew your way to heaven.

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xxx – Sarah

 

Time to Become the Best You Possible

So if you’re like me then you’re on a lifelong journey to achieve optimal wellness that is constantly changing due to new information.  The key is to obtain information from a trustworthy source – always look at the background of the individual and his/her services to see if it fits with your goals but pay attention to education and the mission.

As a professional I have learned there is not one solution for achieving your goals nor one template.  If you are looking to make improvements, changes, and/or modifications to your life – contact me today for a free consultation.

Consultation – FREE

30 minute nutrition counseling, goal planning, grocery shopping, education session, follow-up meetings – $35/person/session

60 minute nutrition counseling, goal planning, grocery shopping, or customized nutrition education session – $70/person/session

***All the above options can be in-person if the geography is right!  Otherwise virtual methods will be utilized.


INITIAL MONTHLY PLANS (+ free initial consultation):

  • Menu meal plan and diet framework – $125
  • Workout plan – $100
  • Meal and workout regimen – $175

EXTENDED MONTHLY PLANS/CHANGES TO MONTHLY PLANS (done on a weekly and monthly basis):

  • Menu meal planning – $50
  • Workout plan – $40
  • Meal/workout regimen – $65

IN PERSON WORKOUTS:

30 minute session: $25/person/session

60 minute session: $50/person/session

***Payments are non-refundable

How to Properly Ring in the New Year Guilt-Free

If you’re anything like me, the New Year sometimes means parties, outings, or a simple gathering with friends/family.  One sure thing is that there will either be tons of alcohol, food, or BOTH.  Simplify your ‘next day guilt blues’ with these tricks!

  • Hydrate: 
    • Drink your body weight (pounds) in ounces or get super close – for example, if you weigh 100#, try to drink 100 ounces
    • Drink a full glass of water (8 ounces) before meals/snacks to help fill up and prevent hydration pangs from being misled as ‘hunger’
    • Avoid highly carbonated beverages early in the day to prevent bloating, fatigues, and headaches
    • Chase alcoholic beverages with water – for example, for each glass of alcohol, try to drink a glass of water
  • Fuel up properly:
    • Eat your meals as routinely as possible to help prevent excessive grazes or binges at the food table
    • Protein and healthy fat sources aid in satiety, warmth, and recovery thus pick wisely
      • Lean proteins: beef, lamb, eggs, chicken, and turkey
        • TIP – If you are easily tired, lay off the turkey since it’s a tryptophan carrier
      • Healthy fats: olive oil, avocado, coconut oil, canola oil, nuts, and seeds
  • Outfits:  Dress for success but keep your extremities warm (hands, feet, and head)

 

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Make 2016 a prosperous and healthy year… In other words, keep checking my site for more tips!

 

xxx – Sarah

Shrimp Squash Boats Stuffed with Brussels and Peppers – Serves 2

Guess you can say I’m mad about squash.  Not a lie.  Seriously so easy to make and cures me of my pasta craving – absolutely works like a charm.

Shrimp is a great source of lean protein and it is a HBV protein making it well absorbed.  A four ounce portion of shrimp is about 100-110 calories, 20-25 g protein, 1.2 g fat, and contains no carbohydrates.  When cooked under moist heat/oil most of its juices and water content is retained.  This is a fantastic recipe demonstrating just that.

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Ingredients:

  • 1 spaghetti squash; halved diagonally to form a boat shape with the insides (pulp and seeds) scooped out
  • 1 small red bell pepper; diced
  • 1 medium yellow onion; diced
  • 1 cup of Brussels sprouts; quartered (keep the leaves as they shed when cut)
  • 1/2 pound jumbo shrimp; raw, peeled, and deveined
  • 1 tbsp garlic; minced
  • 1 small shallot; minced
  • 1 spring rosemary; minced
  • To taste – ground black pepper (about 2-3 shakes with my spice shaker)
  • To taste – ground French thyme (about 2-3 shakes with my spice shaker)
  • To taste – sea salt (about 1-2 full grinds or 1/2 tsp)
  • EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) – to coat the both pans

Methodology:

  1. Pre-heat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit then line a cooking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Place the boat shaped spaghetti squash atop with the insides facing up on the pan and cook for 30 minutes.
  3. On a plate mix the shrimp and garlic together into a ball.  Allow to sit for 5-10 minutes for the garlic to be well absorbed.
  4. In a large sauté pan drizzle EVOO under medium-high heat then when the oil is dispersed add the following ingredients: red bell pepper, yellow onion, Brussels sprouts, shallot, and rosemary.
  5. Allow the vegetables to sauté and mix over a period of 10-15 minutes depending on how crisp you want the vegetables.  I sautéed the vegetables until the onions were golden in color.
  6. Top the vegetables with spices (sea salt, French thyme, and black pepper) as desired and stir well.
  7. In a separate pan while the vegetables are sautéing drizzle EVOO and allow the pan to heat up under medium-high heat.  Transfer the shrimp/garlic ball onto the pan.
  8. Sear each side of the shrimp for 2 minutes – each side should be seared at least twice or until a golden color is achieved.
  9. Remove the squash from the oven and drain if there is liquid pooled in the middle.  Using a fork gently pull down the sides of the squash until the spaghetti is formed.  Keep the spaghetti in the shell of the squash boat.
  10. Stuff the vegetables into the shell atop the spaghetti then garnish with the shrimp on top.
  11. If you want to further heat up the squash boat then place in the oven for 5-10 minutes to absorb the residual heat as the oven cools down.
  12. Have your utensils ready and dig in!

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xxx – Sarah

 

 

Quinoa and Asparagus Hush Puppy Cakes – Makes a Dozen

Bread, buns, and cakes stress me out sometimes.  I try to find gluten-free options in the store that are appealing but lately none stand out.  I’m in the mood for texture/grittiness but without the wheat.  Rather than buying overpriced gluten-free options I opted to make my own…  These cakes are pretty darn good if I may say so.

I am heading out of town this weekend and wanted to use everything in my pantry/refrigerator… Successfully did just that.  The recipe calls for quinoa which is a fantastic gluten-free grain.  It is a great protein source for vegetarians and vegans since it is a complete protein – contains all of the nine essential amino acids!  Had a taste tester who said these were like a healthy but yummy version of hush puppies hence the name!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup quinoa, cooked (utilized the Organic Tricolor Quinoa from Trader Joe’s – so delish)
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/3 cup aged parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 cup asparagus, minced
  • 2 tbsp garlic, crushed or minced (when in a bind I opt for ready-to-use garlic products which are a staple in my refrigerator – I love the Roasted Minced Garlic from Spice World)
  • 1 cup coconut flour
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt or ‘to taste’ (I did about 3 full grinds of my salt – equivalent to 1/2 tsp)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper; ground
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper; flakes

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Methodology:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, olive oil, eggs, asparagus, garlic, and flour, stir well.
  2. Add the necessary spices (S&P) then stir well or mix with your hands.
  3. Under medium-high heat drizzle olive oil in a large saucepan then using your hands create Ping-Pong shaped balls and place on the pan.  Keep a space between each ball then flatten with a spatula.
  4. Allow to heat each side for 3-4 minutes until slightly browned then finish with a 30 second-1 minute sear on each side.
  5. Set to the site on a cool plate or wire rack.
  6. These cakes are absolutely heavenly when added to a salad, topped with meat, or topped with cooked veggies.
  7. Enjoy!

 

xxx – Sarah

To cook quinoa:  Combine 1 cup quinoa and 2 cups water bring to a boil atop stove then reduce to a simmer and cover.  I usually allow it to sit out on the stove top covered for 2-3 hours then start utilizing it by itself or in other recipes such as this one.

Workouts for the Workaholic – Session #8

Everyone needs a mid-week ‘pick me up’ and mine is going to the gym.  I have always had a weak upper body but in recent years I’ve witnessed transformations – more toned, able to sustain more weight, and form that looks professional rather than sloppy.

Years ago I hated pushups but now they’re a staple.  A simple pushup allows for focus not only on muscles of the chest but keeping a firm core.  As you’ve already guessed, this workout focuses on the chest along with a mix of core, triceps, glutes, and some tabata for a sweat boost.

**All sets in this workout are to start with a light to medium weight for the first set and then progress in weight without compromising form or remain with a challenging weight.

**When moving from exercise to exercise or waiting between sets keep the rest no more than 60 seconds.

Tabata Warm-up:  Air Squats – 3 sets (30 seconds on, 30 seconds off)

Exercise #1 – Tabata:  Lateral High Jump Side Skaters (click the link to see the video) – 5 sets (30 seconds on, 30 seconds off)

Exercise #2 and #3 – Superset:  Stability Ball Decline Pushups – 4 sets (15/12/10/8), and Stability Ball Reverse Plank Glute Raises (15/12/10/8)

Exercise #4:  Flat Bench Press with Barbell – 4 sets (15/12/10/8)

Exercise #5:  Cable Barbell Tricep Pushdowns – 4 sets (15/12/10/8)

Exercise #6:  Cable Chest Flyes – 4 sets (15/12/10/8)

Exercise #7:  Dumbbell Tricep Extensions – 4 sets (15/12/10/8)

Exercise #8:  Dumbbell Chest Flyes – 4 sets (15/12/10/8)

Exercise #9:  Clapping Pushups – 1 set to FAILURE/EXHAUSTION

**Alternative to Clapping Pushups:  Chest-to-Ground Pushups traditional style with feet on the ground or work from your knees

 

xxx – Sarah

PS – I am working on creating more videos… Stay tuned!

Fit and Vegetarian

Well… I must admit that I have been cheating on my website with eDietitians aka writing for them.  Whoops.  I recently wrote an article for them in June and just finished my latest article for the October edition.  The June article can be accessed at: http://edietitians.com/2014/06/14/fit-and-vegetarian/.  The article for the october edition is based on HIIT modality of training aka high intensity interval training therefore stay tuned!

 

xxx – Sarah