Cherry Chocolate Protein Smoothie

This smoothie gets the antioxidants from the cherries, the protein from the protein powder and nut butter, the healthy fats from the coconut milk and avocado, and the omega 3's from the chia-seeds.  But, this smoothie is basically a healthy milkshake; it's that good!  It's nutritious, balancing, and insanely delicious and satisfying.

But good luck enjoying your full portion if you have cute little food thieves hangin' around. ;)

INGREDIENTS:

- 1 1/2 cups frozen organic cherries (I buy mine from Costco)

- 2 ripened bananas

- 1 small avocado

- 1 scoop chocolate protein powder (I like this kind)

- 1 heaping tablespoon of almond or peanut butter

- 1/4 cup chia-seed gel (recipe here)

- 1 BPA-free canned coconut milk (I like this kind)

- handful of spinach or other greens

- Optional: handful of ice cubes 

DIRECTIONS:

1.  Place all ingredients in a high-speed blender, and blend until smooth and creamy.

2.  Serve immediately and enjoy!

Approximately 2-3 servings

Immune-Boosting Chicken Soup

Tender pieces of chicken, fresh vegetables, herbs and spices is what makes this soup healing, detoxifying, and immune boosting.

If I ever feel a sickness coming on, or just want to make my body scream with joy, this is my go-to soup! 

Oh, and it tastes divine. :)

INGREDIENTS:

- 1 1/2 to 2 lbs organic chicken breasts

- 2 tablespoons extra virgin coconut or avocado oil

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 2 cups celery, chopped

- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced

- 4 garlic cloves, minced

- 2 quarts chicken broth (homemade is best, or I like this kind)

- 2 cups carrots, sliced

- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric

- 2 teaspoons unrefined sea salt

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into small florets

- 1 1/2 cups frozen peas

- 1/4 cup fresh parsley

DIRECTIONS:

1.  Trim any excess fat off of the chicken, place in a large skillet, cover with water, sprinkle with salt, and turn to high heat.  Once it reaches a boil, turn down to a simmer, partially cover, and cook for 10 minutes.  Remove skillet from heat, cover, and set aside for 15 minutes.

2.  Meanwhile, add oil to a large stockpot and turn to medium heat.  Add the onions, celery, ginger and garlic, and sauté  for 5-6 minutes to soften.

3.  Add the broth, carrots, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, salt and pepper.  Bring to a boil, then turn to medium-low and cook for 20 minutes.

4.  Refer to step 1, and remove chicken with tongs, and place on a cutting board, allowing to cool for 5 minutes before shredding.  Shred the chicken (I use two forks), and carefully place in the stock pot.

5.  Add the broccoli, peas and parsley and continue cooking until broccoli is barely fork tender, about 10 minutes.

6.  Serve and enjoy!

Approximately 6-8 servings

(Adapted recipe from here)

Wholesome Custard

It's hard to believe that this delicious and decadent dessert is full of nutrient dense ingredients, making it an excellent choice for adults AND for babies over one.

Egg yolks are loaded with vitamins A, D, E and K, as well omega-3 fats, folate and vitamin B12.  Combine that with more healthy fats, vitamins and minerals from the real cream, this is a dessert that not only tickles your taste buds, but boosts your brain health and immunity as well!

My kids lick their bowls clean every time.  And so do I.

INGREDIENTS:

- 6 egg yolks, preferably from pastured hens

- 2 cups good quality cream (I like this, this or this kind), or sub with coconut milk

- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (but try using less if making for babies)

- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

- pinch of unrefined sea salt

- extra virgin coconut oil for greasing

DIRECTIONS:

1.  Preheat oven to 310 degrees and lightly grease (4 to 6) ramekins with extra virgin coconut oil.

2.  Separate the egg whites from the egg yolks and place the yolks in a medium-sized bowl. (Discard or save whites for a later use).  Beat the yolks with a fork or whisk until smooth.

3.  Add the rest of the ingredients, and mix well.

4.  Carefully pour mixture into prepared ramekins.  Grab a 9x13 casserole dish, fill up with water halfway, and carefully place ramekins in it, then put in oven.

5.  Bake for 1 hour, or until custard is no longer liquid in the middle, and is slightly browned.

6.  You can enjoy them right away, but I prefer the firmed up texture after refrigerating for at least 4 hours.  Serve as is, or sprinkle nutmeg on tops or fresh berries, and enjoy!

Approximately 4-6 servings

(Adapted recipe from here)

Comfort Meatballs

These meatballs are a cinch to make, and have a spot-on texture, delicious flavor, and heat!

I do take a short-cut on these meatballs, and use Stonewall Kitchen Country Ketchup.  This ketchup doesn't have any artificial flavors, preservatives or high fructose corn syrup, unlike most ketchups out there.  It does however have a touch of pure cane sugar, so if that's something you avoid completely, then just be aware of that. (You can purchase this ketchup at Vitacost, Amazon, Harmons, or your local health food store). :)

It's the perfect main dish to bring to gatherings or parties, because everyone will love them!

INGREDIENTS:

- 2 pounds grass-fed ground beef

- 1 cup gluten-free, quick cooking oats (I use this kind)

- 1 cup milk (I like raw or almond milk)

- 3 tablespoons onion, finely chopped

- 1 1/2 teaspoons unrefined sea salt

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- 4 tablespoon extra virgin coconut oil

- 1 bottle Stonewall Kitchen Country Ketchup

DIRECTIONS:

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef and oats.  Pour in the milk, and then add the onions, salt and pepper.  Stir to combine, (I like to use my 'clean' hands for this).

2.  Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop, then form into balls and place on a 9x13 casserole dish.  Continue forming balls until all the mixture is used up. (You might need an additional small glass dish, if meatballs don't fit in same dish). Cover dish(es) with saran wrap, and place in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until you're ready to cook them.

3.  Remove from fridge and preheat oven to 350 degrees.

4.  In a large skillet, add the coconut oil, and turn to medium heat.  Carefully place individual balls into hot skillet, and cook for about 1 minute, on each side, or until lightly browned.  They do not have to be cooked all the way through.  Place browned meatballs back in casserole dish, then repeat the browning process, until all mixture is used up.

5.  Now pour and spread the ketchup evenly over top of the meatballs.  Place in oven and bake for 45 minutes.

7.  Serve, and enjoy!

Approximately 5-8 servings

(Adapted recipe from here)

Almond Ginger Green Smoothie

My 2-year-old isn't a fan of vegetables... and so I'm constantly disguising them in his food each day.  Smoothies are such an easy and delicious way to practice this, which is what inspired this particular smoothie.  It's nicely sweet, but also has a good dose of vegetables and healthy fats.  

Such a great smoothie, and for all ages too!

INGREDIENTS:

- 1 cup almond milk (homemade is best, or I like this kind)

- 2 tablespoons almond butter

- 1 inch chunk of ginger, peeled, and roughly chopped

- 1 small cucumber

- 4 stalks celery

- 2 ripe bananas

- 1 avocado

- handful of ice cubes

- optional: drizzle of raw honey (add only if you'd like it extra sweet)

DIRECTIONS:

1.  Add all ingredients into a high-speed blender, and blend until smooth and creamy.

2.  Serve immediately and enjoy!

Approximately 2 servings

Lemon Noodles and Summer Squash

I am in love with Tolerant noodles.  They're made from only 1 ingredient; lentils, making them gluten-free, high protein, low glycemic and ridiculously delicious.  Because of these amazing noodles, I've been craving more pasta lately.

This simple dish features these noodles (or your noodle of choice of course), along with seasonal summer squash, greens, and buttery lemon sauce.

It's the perfect quick-fix on a any summer night.

INGREDIENTS:

- 12 oz. gluten-free noodles (I love this kind)

- 1 medium-sized lemon, zested and juiced

- 2 cups spinach, roughly chopped

- 1 medium summer squash, cubed

- 4 tablespoons good quality butter

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- optional: 3 tablespoons pine nuts

- 1 teaspoon unrefined sea salt

- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

- 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, plus more for sprinkling

DIRECTIONS:

1.  Bring 3 quarts of water to a boil in a large stock pot, add noodles, and cook according to package instructions.  Once done, drain in colander, then add noodles back into stock pot.  Sprinkle the lemon zest and spinach over noodles, stir, and set aside.

2.  In a separate saucepan, add cubed summer squash, and enough water to barely cover.  Sprinkle with a little salt, and bring to a boil.  Quickly reduce heat to a simmer, cover and cook for a couple minutes, or until barely fork tender.  Drain and set aside.

3.  In another small saucepan, melt butter on medium heat.  Once melted, add minced garlic (and optional pine nuts), and sauté for 2 minutes.  Stir in the lemon juice.  Pour mixture over noodles, and stir gently.  

4.  Now add in the summer squash, parmesan cheese, salt and pepper, and gently stir to combine.

5.  Serve with additional parmesan cheese on top, and enjoy!

Approximately 3-4 servings

(Adapted recipe from here)

Quick and Easy Tomato Soup

I love eating soups year round, because it's a great way to consume lots of vegetables and reheat quick leftovers.  What I don't like, is standing over a hot stove for long periods of time in the hot summer months, which is why this quick and easy tomato soup is the perfect year-round soup to make.

Tomatos are full of endless vitamins, such as vitamins A, C, E, K, and B6, as well as magnesium, fiber, folate and more.

It is, however, very important to avoid canned tomatoes as much as possible, because impurities and poisons, including aluminum, can be absorbed easily into the body.  If you must buy canned tomatoes, you'll at least want your cans labelled as BPA-free.  (Bisphenol A, (BPA), is an ingredient in the vinyl lining that can leach into the body and can adversely affect the brain, behavior, and the way estrogen is metabolized.  It's especially something women and children should avoid!)

This recipe uses boxed tomatoes, making it a simple and delicious way to enjoy this classic soup.

INGREDIENTS:

- 2 tablespoons extra virgin coconut or olive oil

- 1 medium onion, finely chopped

- 3 large cloves garlic, minced

- 1 26 oz. box strained or finely chopped tomatoes (I use this kind)

- 1 1/2 cups vegetable or chicken broth (no sugar or gluten added)

- 1 cup coconut milk (I use this kind)

- 2 teaspoons dried basil

- 1 1/2 teaspoons unrefined sea salt

- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

- 1 tablespoon tomato paste

- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

- optional: 1 teaspoon coconut sugar

DIRECTIONS:

1.  In a large saucepan, add oil and turn to medium heat.

2.  Add onions, and sauté until translucent; about 4 minutes.  Stir in garlic and sauté for 1 minute more.

3.  Add remaining ingredients, and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes.

4.  Serve as is, or carefully pour into a blender, and blend until very smooth and creamy.

5.  Ladle into bowls and enjoy as is, or paired with some gluten free crackers or grilled-cheese.  

Approximately 3-4 servings

(Note:  This soup tastes even better the next day)

(Adapted recipe from here)

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Nice Cream

Nice Cream is simply just ice cream that's very kind to your body.  :)  This decadent treat begins by blending frozen bananas in almond milk, (at which point you could already stop and enjoy this treat), BUT we're going to take it to the next level by adding sinfully delicious natural peanut butter and dairy-free mini chocolate chips.

It's a healthy, 4-ingredient dessert, that'll make your summer that much better!

INGREDIENTS:

- 6 frozen bananas (I peel, half, then place in ziplock bag to freeze)

- 1 1/4 cups unsweetened almond milk

- 1/2 cup organic, unsweetened peanut butter (any nut or seed butter would work fine too)

- 1/4 cup Enjoy-life chocolate chips

DIRECTIONS:

1.  Place the bananas and almond milk in a high-speed blender and blend until texture is like soft-serve ice cream. (This might take a bit of scraping down sides, and some stop & go with the blending).

2.  Pour mixture into an 8x8 glass dish.

3.  Place teaspoon sized drops of peanut butter all over the top, then smash and stir a little to incorporate.

4.  Sprinkle top with chocolate chips, and treat yourself now, BUT for best results, cover dish with plastic wrap, and place in the freezer for 3 hours.

5.  When ready to serve, set on counter for 10 minutes, then scoop out desired amount, and enjoy!

Approximately 6 servings

(Adapted recipe from here)

Watermelon Coconut Sorbet

Here are a few fun facts about watermelons!

1. Watermelons are actually a fruit AND a vegetable.

2. You can eat the rind and seeds, both of which are very nutritious.

3. It's best to eat watermelon (or any melon) 30 minutes before or after any other food, or else you might get a rumbly tummy.

4. It's rich in anti-inflammatory substances.

5.  It's very hydrating, as well as being full of many vitamins such as Vitamins C, B6, A, potassium, magnesium and lycopene.

So here's a fun and refreshing way to use summer's favorite fruit!

INGREDIENTS:

- 4 cups cubed watermelon

- 1 BPA-free canned coconut milk (I use this kind)

- 1 small lemon, juiced

- 1/4 cup organic, pure maple syrup

- 1/8 teaspoon unrefined sea salt

- optional: unsweetened coconut for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

1.  Place all ingredients in a blender, and pulse until smooth and creamy.  (This can take a bit of patience; stop blender and scrape down sides, blend and repeat, until everything is incorporated).

2.  Serve now like soft-serve ice cream, or store in a sealed container, to scoop out later.

3.  Top portions with shredded coconut, and serve!

4. Enjoy!

(Optional directions:  After it's blended, pour into popsicle molds, and freeze for at least 4 hours)

(Adapted recipe from here)

Chocolate Protein Smoothie

I don't typically enjoy smoothies unless they're full of stabilizing proteins, healthy fats, omega 3's and more!  This balanced Chocolate Protein Smoothie is just that, and then some!

Sunwarrior Protein powder is one of my favorite protein powders.  It's a plant-based protein powder that has a compete amino acid profile, as well as being raw, soy-free, gluten-free, non GMO, dairy-free and vegan.  There are no chemicals, fillers or artificial ingredients in this one!

This smoothie is a perfect way to start your day, or to refuel after a good work out.

INGREDIENTS:

- 3 perfectly ripe bananas

- 1 BPA-free can coconut milk (I use this kind)

- 1 avocado

- 2 tablespoons almond butter

- 1 tablespoons hemp seeds

- 1/4 cup chia-seed gel

- 1 scoop chocolate protein powder

- large handful of spinach

- handful of icecubes

DIRECTIONS:

1.  Place all ingredients into a high-speed blender, and blend until smooth and creamy.

2.  Serve immediately and enjoy!

Approximately 2 servings

Mini Donut Muffins

These delicious little muffins are gluten-free, nut-free and refined-sugar free, yet still have a wonderful texture and sweetness similar to a donut hole!

High in fiber, and low in carbs, these muffins are the perfect snack or treat for you or your little ones.

INGREDIENTS:

- 2/3 cup coconut flour

- 2 teaspoons cinnamon

- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

- 1/2 teaspoon unrefined sea salt

- 1/2 cup coconut sugar

- 4 eggs, preferably from pastured hens

- 1/2 cup good quality butter, (I like this kind)

Topping:

- 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon

 - 1/3 cup coconut sugar

- 3 tablespoons extra virgin coconut oil, melted

DIRECTIONS:

1.  Preheat oven to 350 degrees, and lightly grease a mini muffin pan with coconut oil or butter.

2.  Combine all ingredients in a medium-sized mixing bowl.

3.  Use a cookie scoop, and scoop batter into prepared muffin pan.

4.  Place in oven, and bake for 10 minutes.  Remove from oven, and let cool for 10 minutes.

5.  Melt coconut oil, and place in shallow bowl.  Combine cinnamon and coconut sugar in another shallow bowl.

6.  Dip the very top of muffin gently in the coconut oil, then dip in cinnamon/sugar.  Repeat until all muffins are coated.

7.  Enjoy!

Makes approximately 18 muffins

(Adapted recipe from here)

Vegetable Korma

I'm obsessed with curries.  Love everything about them, especially when they're fully loaded with vegetables.  It makes me extra happy that my family is on board with curries too!

More good news, this curry is so-oo easy to make, and there's nothing exotic that you'll have to go buy from the grocery store.

Full of nutrients, healthy fats and more, I'm pretty positive you're going to like this one!

 

INGREDIENTS:

- 1 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin coconut oil

- 1 small onion, finely diced

- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed (I like Yukon)

- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced

- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped (wear gloves when chopping)

- 1/3 cup raw cashews

- 1 3/4 cups tomato sauce, I like this kind, (or 1 15 oz. BPA-free can tomato sauce)

- 2 teaspoons unrefined sea salt

- 1/2 tablespoon curry powder (add an additional tablespoon if you want it spicy)

- 1 cup frozen peas

- 1 bell pepper, any color, chopped

- 1 1/2 cups coconut milk or heavy cream

- optional:  cilantro for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

1.  Prepare all vegetables and set aside.

2.  Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat.  Stir in the onion, and cook until tender.

3.  Mix in the ginger and garlic, and continue cooking for 1 minute.  

4.  Add the potatoes, carrots, jalapeno, cashews and tomato sauce, and stir.  Season with salt and curry powder, mix and allow to cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5.  Add peas, bell pepper and coconut milk into the skillet, and stir.  Reduce heat to medium low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until potatoes and carrots are fork tender.  

6.  Garnish with cilantro, and serve as is, or serve over sprouted rice or quinoa.

7.  Enjoy!

Approximately 4 servings

(Adapted recipe from here)

Sausage, Cabbage and Sweet Potato Casserole

I have been LOVING casseroles lately.  No special steps, but just basically throwing all the ingredients together, and then having a delicious feast an hour later.

This dish features two of my favorites: sweet potatoes and cabbage, in addition to my husband and kids' favorite: sausages..

Now, it's best to purchase nitrate and gluten-free sausages with the fewest ingredients possible.  Luckily they're becoming easier to find these days in a variety of stores.

Pictured below I used Aidell's Chicken and Apple Sausages.  It was delish!

(I also think this would make for a great Hobo Dinner for any up and coming camping trips!)

INGREDIENTS:

- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

- 5 carrots, peeled and sliced

- 1 small onion, roughly chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped

- half head of cabbage, roughly chopped

- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth, (I like this kind)

- 2 tablespoons extra virgin coconut or avocado oil

- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian Herbs

- 1 teaspoon unrefined sea salt

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- 4 or 5 gluten-free sausages, sliced

- optional:  good quality ketchup to serve with

DIRECTIONS:

1.  Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

2.  Place chopped sweet potatoes, carrots, garlic and cabbage in a 9x13 casserole dish.

3.  In a small bowl, combine the broth, olive oil, Italian Herbs, salt and pepper, and stir.

4.  Pour over vegetable mixture, and toss to coat.

5.  Place in oven and bake for 40 minutes, stirring gently, half-way through.

5.  Carefully remove from oven, and add sliced sausages on top.  Place back in oven, and bake for additional 10 minutes.

6.  Remove from oven and gently stir, then serve as is or with a bit of ketchup.

7.  Enjoy!

(Adapted recipe from here)