Meatless Monday: Strawbery Avocado Couscous with Lime Vinagrette

This is a wonderfully different salad than I'm used to and I can't wait to try it now that strawberries are in season!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked couscous
• 1 avocado, halved, seeded, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup corn kernels
• 1/2 cup strawberries, quartered
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts

For the lime vinaigrette:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• Zest of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
• 2 teaspoons sugar, or more to taste

Directions:
1. In a large bowl, combine couscous, avocado, corn, strawberries, cilantro and pine nuts. Stir in lime vinaigrette.
2. To make the vinaigrette, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lime zest and juice, and sugar in a small bowl. Toss into salad and serve.

[Image and Recipe via Nature Box] 

Summer: Healthy Eating

Eating right is not just about looking good. It's also about feeling good and being healthy. It's so vital that each of us takes care of our bodies by not only consistently exercising, but also by consuming vitamin-rich foods. Avoid salt and instead reach for the Lemon Pepper and other herbs and spices that pack on flavor without the fat, calories and sodium.  Hydration is so important, especially during Summer. Choose foods that are in season. Not only are they the most fresh, but they are cheaper! P.B.B. wants you to give yourself the best chance at a long, healthy and happy life with super foods! Let's continue to have a great Summer!

Homemade Watermelon Pops

Summer is officially upon us which makes this tasty snack perfect for the season. Why buy artificially flavored popsicles at the store when you can make your very own healthy treats at home?

Simply take 2 cups of watermelon. Cube them and remove the seeds. Blend with 1 cup apple juice until smooth and pour this lovely pink mixture into popsicle molds. Freeze and enjoy!

[Recipe and Images via MinuteClinic.com]

Meatless Monday: Carrot and Ginger Juice Recipe

Perfect for Summer, this juice recipe is nutritious and delicious !

Ingredients:
* 1 bunch carrots
* 4 oranges (Navel, Blood, Valencia, etc.)
* 1 ginger root (about the size of your palm)

Directions:
Rinse the dirt off the carrots. Remove green tops. You can chop them to assist your juicer. There's no need to peel the carrots. Using a serrated knife, cut all of the rind off the oranges and separate to fit through the juicer. Break or cut apart the ginger. Run all of your ingredients through the juicer and mix. If you find the juice to be too spicy from the ginger, add another orange or water to dilute it.

Bon appetit!

Recipe and Images via BLDG25

Meatless Monday: Spiced Nuts

These treats are the perfect addition to any get together. Just make sure you make enough because no one can have just one!

Ingredients:
-1 lb. mixed nuts
-3 tbsp. fresh rosemary
-1 tsp. cayenne powder
-1 tsp. fresh ground nutmeg
-2 tbsp. dark brown sugar
-1 tbsp. kosher salt
-2 tbsp. unsalted butter

Directions:
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Toast nuts on a cookie sheet for approximately 10 minutes. Stir the nuts periodically so they don't burn. Mince the rosemary and combine with the rest of the dry ingredients in a small bowl. Using a separate bowl, melt the butter in the microwave. Then add your dry ingredients to the melted butter. When the nuts are golden brown, remove them from the oven and place in a mixing bowl. Add your melted seasoned butter to the nuts. Toss and cool before putting in a serving bowl.

Bon appetit!

[Recipe and Images via honestlywtf]

Eating In: Easy Frittata

Frittatas have quickly become a staple in my home. Perfect for weekend brunch, this dish can be catered to each individual by simply combining eggs and super fresh ingredients or those leftovers you've been wanting use.

I take my ramekin and spray it generously with an oil spray/diffuser. Then I add 2 whisked eggs and whatever I happen to have on hand. This time I used some thawed peas, chopped red bell pepper, chopped yellow onion, leftover chicken from a Chinese curry dish ordered the night before, salt and pepper. Last, but not least, I add shredded cheese. Any cheese will do. Just make sure you use shredded/crumbled pieces (which you can do yourself) to ensure for even distribution. The proportions of each ingredient are up to you and will depend on the size of your ramekin.

Next, I pop it in the toaster oven and bake for 20 minutes, then set to broil for another 20 minutes. The cheese creates a yummy golden crust and the eggs fluff up beautifully once baked. Be careful removing your ramekin, as it will be extremely hot. I love adding a dollop of Sri Racha chili sauce for an added kick. You've made a satisfying and easy, yet elegant meal for one (or for many). And you save money by not wasting leftovers. Consider using tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, herbs, bacon/prosciutto and scallions.

Bon appetit!

Eating In: Turkey Pho

Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving! This is a great way to get through some of those leftovers.

Ingredients:
- 8 cups turkey stock
-3 tbsp. fish sauce
-2 tsp. brown sugar
-6 whole cloves
-4 star anise
-1 (3-in.) cinnamon stick (broken)
-1 (3-in.) piece peeled fresh ginger (halved)
-4 oz. uncooked wide rice stick noodles (bahn pho)
-cooking spray
-1 medium onion (peeled/halved)
-3 cups shredded cooked dark turkey meat
-2 cups fresh bean sprouts
-1/3 cups cups thinly sliced green onion
-1/4 cup  fresh Thai basil (thinly sliced)
-1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
-1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 cup fresh cilantro sprigs
1/2 cup fresh mint sprigs
-6 lime wedges
-1 jalapeno (seeded/thinly sliced)
-Hoisin sauce (optional)
-Sri Racha chili sauce (optional)

Directions:
Combine the first 7 ingredients in a large stock pot over medium heat. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for approximately 30 minutes. Strain the broth and discard the solids. Return broth to the pan and keep warm. Cook noodles according to package directions. Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Coat your pan with cooking spray and add onion. Cook for approximately 8 minutes or until charred on each side. Remove from heat and cool slightly. Slice onion thinly and add to broth. Add turkey and next 5 ingredients (through salt) to pan. Bring to a boil. Cook for 2 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Place about a 1/2 cup of boodles in each of 6 bowls. Ladle about 1 1/3 cups broth over each serving. Serve with cilantro, mint, lime wedges and jalapeno. Serve with Hoisin sauce and/or Sri Racha if desired.

Bon appetit!

[Recipe and Images via MyRecipes.com]

Meatless Monday: Garlic Kale Chips

This is a super healthy and yummy snack you all should try!

Bon appetit!

Meatless Monday: Curried Tomatoes & Chickpeas

Tomatoes are in season, so it only makes sense to enjoy fresh ones as much as possible before the Summer comes to an end. This recipe is the perfect opportunity :) This uber-satisfying dish is as simple as it is delicious.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 scallions (sliced; white and light green parts separated)

1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated)

1 teaspoon curry powder

2 pints grape or cherry tomatoes

1 can (15 1/2 oz.) rinsed chickpeas (garbanzo beans)

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

salt and pepper

Directions:

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the white parts of the scallions, the ginger and the curry powder until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes). Add the tomatoes and cook until beginning to burst (about 5-7 minutes). Add the chickpeas and lime juice. Sprinkle in the scallion greens and add salt and pepper to taste.

Bon appetit!

[Recipe and Image from RealSimple.com]

Meatless Monday: Spiced Peas with Cilantro and Lime

I love citrus and spice- especially in the Summer. Peas are healthy and have such a wonderful creamy and satisfying texture- alot like mashed potatoes. Serve this unexpected dish as a side at your next BBQ or dinner party and it'll knock your guests' socks off!

Ingredients:
1 1/2 lbs. fresh peas in the pod shelled (about 2 cups) or 2 cups frozen peas
2 tbsp. olive oil
2 cloves garlic (sliced)
1/2 tsp. curry powder
1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
1 tsp. fresh lime juice

Directions:
If using fresh peas, fill a large saucepan with salted water and bring to a boil. Add the peas and cook until just tender, 3-5 minutes. Drain. Heat the oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the peas, garlic, curry powder and 1/4 tsp. salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and warmed through, 2-3 minutes. Add cilantro and lime juice. Toss to combine.

[Recipe and Images via RealSimple.com]

Meatless Monday: Thai Coconut Cucumber Salad

The Summer heat is in full effect! That means we all want to eat a little lighter and healthier, but we still want to be satisfied, right? This recipe is all of that and more. I love the brightness and color it has. You truly eat with your eyes first and this dish does not disappoint. You can have this either cold or at room temp, making it ideal for the season.

Ingredients:

(Dressing)
1/3 cup coconut milk
1 tsp. red curry paste
1 tsp. fish sauce
1 tsp. soy sauce
juice from 1/2 lime
1 tsp. agave
1/4-1/2 tsp. sriracha
1/4 -1/3 cup water

(Salad)

1/2 cup chopped cucumber

1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper

1/2 cup cooked edamame

1/2 cup tofu (baked)
1/4 cup scallions (sliced)
1/2 cup basil leaves (Thai preferably)
4-5 mint leaves (chopped)
1 cup arugula
1 cup rice noodles (cooked)
1/4 cashews (toasted and chopped)
1/4 cup coconut flakes (toasted)

Directions:
In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients except for the water. Add water, a couple of tablespoons at a time, to thin out the dressing to your liking. Taste and adjust seasoning accordingly. Place in the refrigerator while you chop the salad ingredients.

Toss all salad ingredients, except for the cashews and coconut flakes, with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning accordingly. Add the cashews and coconut flakes on top at the end so they remain crunchy. Squeeze the other half of your lime from the dressing on top (or slice lime and serve as garnish). Serve and enjoy!

Bon appetit!

[Recipe and Images via Bldg 25 Blog]

Meatless Monday: Nachos

Who doesn't love nachos? Now you can enjoy them guilt-free. This recipe is easy on the wallet as well as the waistline :)

Ingredients:
24 baked tortilla chips (approximately 3 oz.)
2 teaspoons canola oil
1 onion (chopped)
1 clove garlic (minced)
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 cup (canned) black beans (rinse and drain before measuring)
12 cherry tomatoes (halved or quartered)
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
salt and pepper
1/2 cup low fat cheddar cheese (shredded)
1/2 avocado (diced)
1/2 cup reduced fat Greek yogurt
1 jalapeno (sliced)


Directions:
Preheat broiler to high. Line a broiling pan or large rimmed baking sheet with foil and mist with cooking spray. Arrange tortilla chips, overlapping slightly, in a single lawyer on top of foil. Meanwhile, warm oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook, stirring frequently, until tender and translucent (about 3 minutes). Add garlic and jalapenos. Sprinkle with chili powder and cook, stirring until fragrant (about 1 minute longer). Stir in beans and tomatoes. Cook and stir until just warmed through (about 2 minutes). Add lemon juice and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper and give it one last stir. Spoon your yummy bean dip onto the center of your chips and spread evenly. Sprinkle cheese evenly on top. Broil, watching constantly and turning pan often until nachos are hot, cheesy and bubbly (about 1 minute). Remove pan from broiler. Sprinkle avocado over nachos and garnish with dollops of yogurt. Transfer to a platter and serve immediately.

Bon appetit!

[Recipe and Image via allyou.com]

Meatless Monday: Whole Wheat Shells with Asparagus, Peas, Feta and Mint

Nutritious and satisfying is a great combination.  You're sure to love this so much, you won't miss the meat.

Ingredients:
12 oz. whole wheat paste shells
1 lb. asparagus (cut into 1 in. pieces)
1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen baby peas
2 tablespoons garlic oil
3 green onions (thinly sliced; 1/3 cup)
1 cup sliced fresh basil
1/2 cup coursely chopped fresh mint
1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
3 oz. feta cheese (crumbled; 3/4 cup)


Directions:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add asparagus and cook for 4 minutes, or until crisp/tender. Remove asparagus with slotted spoon and transfer to serving bowl. Add pasta to boiling water and cook for 5 minutes. Add peas, return water to boil and cook for 2 minutes. Drain pasta and peas, reserving 1/4 cup of cooking water and return pasta and peas to pot. Stir in reserved cooking water, asparagus, garlic oil, green onions, basil, mint and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer back to serving bowl. Sprinkle with feta cheese.

Bon appetit!


Recipe and Image via www.vegetariantimes.com]

Meatless Monday: Vegetarian Pho

I can't even begin to describe my love for pho. The Vietnamese staple is always best on those cold and rainy days. If you want to stay off the roads and make a homemade (vegetarian) version right in the comfort of your own home, try this recipe. For a non-Meatless Monday meal, feel free to throw in any protein of your choosing (ie. beef, chicken, shrimp, etc.). I love the simplicity of this recipe that still manages to pack a punch when it comes to the flavor factor :)

Ingredients:

Broth
4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 1/2 (1/2 cup) large shallots (sliced)
1/4 cup dried shitake mushrooms
5 cloves garlic (peeled and crushed)
1 1/2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
6 1/4-in. thick coins fresh ginger
1/2 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cinnamon sticks
2 star anise
2-4 fresh basil stems (leaves reserved for soup)
2-4 cilantro stems (leaves reserved for soup)

Pho
4 oz. rice or vermicelli noodles
4 oz. tofu
1 cup soybean sprouts
1 cup watercress
2 (1/2 cup) green onions
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
pinch of cilantro
1 lime cut into wedges

Directions:
To make your own broth, place all ingredients in a large pot with 5 cups of water. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer covered for one hour. Strain broth and return to pot. Discard solids.

Cook vermicelli or rice noodles according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Divide among bowls. Ladle broth over noodles and top with tofu, sprouts, watercress and green onions. Serve cilantro, basil and lime wedges on the side to be stirred into soup.

Bon appetit!

[Recipe and Image via www.vegetariantimes.com]

Meatless Monday: Vegetarian Tortilla Soup

This has GOT to be one of my favorite soups of all time! As much as I love it with chicken, as it is traditionally served, this rendition is a nice alternative for Meatless Monday :) And as the weather cools, this classic soup is perfect to keep your tummy warm and satisfied.

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 lb. package frozen pepper and onion stir fry mix
2 cloves garlic (minced)
3 4-oz. cans chopped green chile peppers (drained)
3 tablespoons ground cumin
1 28-oz. can crushed tomatoes
4 14-oz. cans vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
1 11-oz. can whole kernel corn
12 oz. tortilla chips (personally, I LOVE the blue ones!)
1 avocado (peeled, pitted and diced)


Directions:
Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Stir in the pepper and onion stir fry mix, garlic, and cumin and cook for 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Mix in the tomatoes and chile peppers. Pour in the broth and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer for approximately 30 minutes.  Mix corn into soup and continue to cook for 5 minutes. Serve in bowls and top with cheese, avocado and tortilla chips.

Bon appetit!


[Recipe and Image via AllRecipes.com]

Meatless Monday: White Bean Soup with Tomato Salsa

Just in time for the cooler whether now that Summer has come to a close. Give this recipe a try if you're looking for flavor and comfort this season. Don't have orzo? Rice is a great substitute. Better yet, try wild rice or quinoa to add some extra nutrition.

Ingredients:
1 cup orzo
4 tomatoes (roughly chopped)
1 red bell pepper (roughly chopped)
2 small red onions (diced)
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (torn)
1/4 cup crumbled Feta cheese
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon sherry vinegar
kosher salt and pepper
1 clove garlic (crushed)
1/4 teaspoon dried red chili flake
2 15 oz. cans white beans (rinsed)
4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
juice of 2 lemons
crusty bread (optional)

Directions:
Cook the orzo according to the package directions. Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine the tomatoes, red pepper, 1 onion, basil, Feta, 2 tablespoons oil, vinegar, and ¼ teaspoon each salt and pepper. Set aside. Heat the remaining oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic, chili flakes, and remaining onion. Cook until softened for about 3 minutes. Add the beans, 3 cups broth, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Transfer the bean mixture to a food processor or blender. Pulse until combined but still slightly chunky. Season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Return the bean mixture to a saucepan over medium heat. Add the remaining cup broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in orzo. Ladle soup into bowls and spoon salsa on top. Serve with bread (if desired).

Bon appetit!

[Recipe and Image via RealSimple.com]

Meatless Monday: Shanghai Noodle Salad

Noodle dishes are so satisfying! This chilled version is perfect for Summer, allowing you to indulge while staying cool!

Ingredients:
1 lb. fresh thick Chinese wheat noodles
1/4 cup ketchup
3 1/2 tablespoons sesame oil
3 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 teaspoons lime juice
1/4 cup chopped green onion
2 carrots (peeled and shredded)
1 small zucchini (cut into matchsticks)
1 (red or orange) bell pepper (cut into matchsticks)
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Directions:
Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, stir in the Chinese noodles and return to a boil. Cook the noodles uncovered, stirring occassionally, until they have cooked through, about 5 minutes. Drain well in a strainer in the sink. Rinse the noodles with cold water several times to chill, then drain again.

In a large salad bowl, whisk together ketchup, sesame oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, kosher salt, and lime juice until brown sugar has dissolved. Place the noodles, green onions, carrots, zucchini, red pepper, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes into the bowl and gently toss to thoroughly mix the salad and coat with dressing.  Chill at least 2 hours before serving.

Bon appetit!

[Recipe and Image via AllRecipes.com]

Meatless Monday: Spiked Peach Limeade Granitas

Ingredients:

Ingredients:
4 cups water

3 cups peach slices (about 3 medium)

1 1/3 cups sugar

6 mint leaves

1 1/3 cups fresh lime juice

3/4 cup rum

peach slices (optional)

fresh mint sprigs (optional) 

Directions:
Combine first 4 ingredients in a medium saucepan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer for 5 minutes. Cool, and discard mint.

Place half or peach mixture in a blender; process until smooth. Pour pureed peach mixture into a 13 x 9–inch baking dish. Combine remaining peach mixture, juice, and rum in blender; process until smooth. Add to baking dish

Freeze 8 hours or until firm. Remove mixture from freezer; scrape entire mixture with a fork until fluffy. Serve immediately. Garnish with peach slices and mint sprigs, if desired.

 Bon appetit!

[Image and Recipe via MyRecipes.com]

What to Watch: "Heat Seekers"

I am a big fan of the show "Chopped" on Food Network.  So I'm pleased to see one of the veteran judges, Aaron Sanchez, coming out with a new show called "Heat Seekers".  He and Roger Mooking, award-winning musician and host of Cooking Channel's "Everyday Exotic", will be traveling across the country in search of some seriously spicy grub.  If you've seen the commercials, you'll notice that these two don't mess around!  Will you be tuning in?

Meatless Monday: Caramelized Onion and White Bean Flatbread

Flatbread pizza takes on a vegetarian flavor perfect for these warm Summer evenings :)

Ingredients:
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 large onion (thinly sliced length wise)
1/4 tablespoon salt
20 ounces prepared whole-wheat pizza dough (thawed if frozen)
2 tablespoons minced fresh oregano (or 2 teaspoons dried)
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 15-oz. can white beans (rinsed)
3 tablespoons water
2 teaspoons white-wine vinegar
2 plum tomatoes (thinly sliced)
1 cup finely shredded smoked Gouda (or Cheddar cheese)

Directions:

Place oven rack in the lowest position; preheat to 450°F. Coat a large non-insulated baking sheet with cooking spray. Combine oil, onion and salt in a medium saucepan. Cover and cook over medium-high heat, stirring often, until the onion is softened, 5 to 7 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low, uncover and cook, stirring occasionally, until very soft and golden, 5 to 8 minutes more. Meanwhile, roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to the size of the baking sheet. Transfer to the baking sheet. Bake until puffed and lightly crisped on the bottom, 8 to 10 minutes. Stir oregano and pepper into the onion. Transfer half the onion to a small bowl. Add beans to the remaining onion; cook over medium heat, stirring often, until heated through, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer the bean mixture to a food processor, add water and vinegar and pulse until a coarse paste forms. Spread the bean paste over the pizza crust. Top with the reserved onion, tomatoes and cheese. Bake on the bottom rack until the crust is crispy and golden and the cheese is melted, 11 to 13 minutes.

Slice and serve.

Bon appetit!

[Image and Recipe via EatingWell.com]