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Tuesday, September 22, 2015

Protein Waffles

Protein Waffles

Recipe from Fixate cookbook


Ingredients:
  • 2 cups oat flour (grind raw oats in blender or food processor to make flour)
  • 2 tbsp ground flaxeeds
  • 3/4 cup whey protein powder, vanilla flavor (I used Shakeology)
  • 1 tsp baking powder, gluten free
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
  • 4 large egg whites (1/2 cup), beaten to form stiff peaks
  • 1 pinch sea salt (I used pink Himalayan salt)
  • Nonstick cooking spray (I use Coconut Oil)
  • Pure maple syrup

Directions:
Prep time-30 min
Cooking time-36 min
Serves 12 (1 waffle each)
  1. Preheat waffle iron.
  2. Combine oat flour, flaxeeds, protein powder, and baking powder in a medium bowl; mix well. Set aside.
  3. Combine extract and almond milk in a medium bowl; whisk to blend. 
  4. Add the flour mixture to the milk mixture; whisk gently just until a smooth batter forms. 
  5. Gently fold in egg whites.
  6. Cook 2/3 cup batter in preheated waffle iron, lightly coated with spray, for approximately 3-5 minutes (or according to specifications by your particular model), or until crips and golden brown. 
  7. Place each waffle on a serving plate, top with one chicken breast, drizzle with maple syrup, and enjoy! 

Thursday, August 20, 2015

Zucchini Bake

Recipe from Fixate Cookbook
I have 101 reasons lately to try new recipes and it's mostly due to my new favorite cookbook, Fixate by Autumn Calabrese! My recent favorite is this delish Zucchini Bake! I am obsessed with Zucchini and this is a cheesy and fresh summer recipe!! SOOOO good and very easy to make, plus for your fellow Fixers, it's approved for your containers!!! 

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 min (took me more like 5) 
Cooking Time: 20 min (you can cook main dish while you wait!)
Container's: 2 Green, 1/2 Purple, 1 tsp

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 Tbsp. freshly grated lemon peel
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme leaves
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano leaves
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt (I used Pink Himalayan)
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 4 large zucchini, quartered lengthwise
  • 1 Tbsp. olive oil
  • Lemon wedges for garnish

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350F 
  2. Combine cheese, lemon peel, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and garlic in a small bowl; mix well. Set aside.
  3. Place zucchini skin side down on large baking dish. Brush with oil covering all of zucchini. Sprinkle evenly with cheese mixture.
  4. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until tender.
  5. Serve with lemon wedges.

Plated wtih grilled chicken breast.

ENJOY!!!!




Friday, June 26, 2015

Two Ingredient Cookies



These are my all time favorite and, GUILT FREE, treat when I'm craving something sweet! It's so simple and the kids love helping me make them! They are gone in seconds in our house!!! 

INGREDIENTS :
  • 2 very ripe organic medium bananas
  • 1 cup rolled oats (I like the Trader Joe's brand)
  • add ins : 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or dried fruit or nuts, chia seeds or even spices like a teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Have fun!



DIRECTIONS :
  1. Preheat oven to 350 F. and prep a baking sheet with parchment paper (not wax paper). 
  2. In a bowl, squish the bananas with a fork, add in the oats and continue mixing until both ingredients are fully incorporated. 
  3. Scoop about a tablespoon of batter per cookie. Bake for about 13-15 minutes until a golden.
  4. Remove from oven and allow to fully cool before serving (about 30 minutes)

E N J O Y!

Tuesday, February 17, 2015


Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs raw 93% lean ground turkey
  • 1 cup all natural mild salsa
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa, cooled
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp sea salt or Pink Himalayan Salt

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375 F
  2. Combine turkey, salsa, quinoa, eggs, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl; mix well by hand or with a rubber spatula
  3. Shape mixture into shape of loaf and place on ungreased 13 X 9 baking pan OR pace spoonful in muffin pan
  4. Bake for 60-70 minutes in 13 X9 pan OR Bake 45-55min in Muffin Pan
  5. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
  6. Serve with veggies and sweet potato  
**Fellow 21 Day Fix/Extreme (1/2 yellow, 1 red, 1/2 purple for meatloaf muffin. This picture also has 1 yellow (sweet potato), 1 green (broccoli).

Tip: Cut cooked meatloaf into single serving (or use single muffin) and freeze in single resealable plastic bags for future meals! 

Monday, February 16, 2015

21 Day Fix Extreme Meal Plan and Prep


The time is here and it's time for me to jump into the 21 Day Fix Extreme meal plan and create something that works for me and our lifestyle. Tyler and I are committed to getting at least 2 full rounds of the fix extreme in before we go to Cancun, Mexico this April for the Team Beachbody Success Club Trip!! 



I received my order last Friday and completely went over the entire plan through the weekend. We didn't want to set ourselves up for failure and start then because we had our last treat meal planned for Valentine's Day! Last night I sat down and calculated out my calorie range and Tyler's so I made sure we were each getting the right amount of containers in for each day. There are some great 21 Day Fix apps in the app store, I prefer the one by Fat Chicken Studios because you can calculate for use of 1/2 containers. If you're more of a pen and paper kind of person you can print of the tracking sheets by going to teambeachbody.com and then the Get Fit tab, the tracking sheets! 

I like to use a spreadsheet to make my meal plan because it's easy to follow and I print that sucker out and put it smack in the middle of my fridge so I know what my plan is. That way, I don't roam the fridge and wander from my plan. I like to make a grocery list and get all of my groceries on Sunday so that way I have everything I need to stick to my plan and I don't get caught in a pickle! If you fail to plan, you plan to fail! 


My 21 Day Fix Extreme Meal Plan Based on Category 1 (1200-1499 cal)

So since this is my first week of the fix extreme what is my game plan?  Well I am following the regular fix extreme plan because I want to get my nutrition in check, I want to get my body used to eating the correct portion sizes and I know that there are going to be a few days where my body just craves some of the things I was allowing myself to have before like chocolate, wine and an extra carb or two. I also know that anytime I start a new workout program the first week is awkward.  You are trying to learn the new moves, plus a new eating plan, your sore, and it takes a lot of mental energy to think through your food.  So I expect that it will be a little more exhausting than usual.  I also know that week 2 is always so much better. So my goal is to do my best the first week but not to beat myself up over it either.  

Last night we took our pictures and measurements because your most accurate measure of progress is NOT the scale but in fact its the measurements and the pictures.  Trust me you will see inches disappear before the pounds and the scale is just not the most accurate measure of progress.  So go by how you feel, your energy level, your clothes and how they fit and throw the scale out the window! 

Our Before Pics
Now I encourage you to create a meal plan and to write it down because its easy to forget what you are eating, to not have the food in the house and to make poor choices if you don't have a clear focus.  So if you are serious about this workout and the results then you want to be prepared.

I am not doing the Countdown to Competition plan initially.  I am going to at least do 2 weeks of the Fix Extreme Nutrition Plan and then switch over to countdown to competition.  I want to give my body time to adjust to fix eating first.  Also, if you feel this is to restrictive then just follow the extreme plan!  You will still get great results.  But if you feel yourself plateauing or not getting results at all then you might have to follow her countdown to competition plan.  I really find that this is very similar to the "How to lose the last 10 pounds" By Tosca Reno book I read and implemented 3 years ago.  It's tough and restricted but doable.

For the workouts:  You are going to need a set of light and heavy weights and a resistance band. Personally I was using 5 and 8 lbs but also up to 10 lbs for some of the lower body exercises because my legs are stronger.  The resistance band is used quite frequently so make sure you have one of those. They are inexpensive and you can get them from Dicks, Walmart or Target.  

Alright I think we are ready!!!!
 

What Week 1 Groceries Look Like
So bottom line the 21 day fix extreme is all about no cheats, no treats, workouts that push you to the max!  I know personally that when it gets down to the last 10 lbs and or you are trying to get abs or change your body you have to go extreme!  Its not something you have to maintain forever but you have to get the results then go into maintenance.  It can be done!  That's why Team Beachbody has coaches like me. My job is to provide you with support, accountability, guidance and tips to start and finish the program!!!  

Day 1 Fix Extreme (5:30 am Wake Up Call was Rough!)

If you would like to join my 21 Day Fix Extreme Group please contact me by completing the form below.


Thursday, February 5, 2015

What the What is Beachbody On Demand?!

My excited face for the awesomeness of BB On Demand
I am SOOOO excited that I earned a spot in the official Test Group for the new Beachbody On Demand that will be launched in March to the public!!! What does this mean?? We all know how convenient it is to be able to do things from our computers or smart phones/tablets and most of us NEVER leave the house without them...well now, Beachbody members will be able to stream LIVE workouts from any computer or smart phone/tablet...I mean that is freaking awesome!!!


How will it work?

Beachbody Club Members will have unlimited access to the On Demand once they login to their Team Beachbody profile.  As soon as it launches in March all you will have to do is click on Start Stream and choose from the library of workouts...you can even test out an individual workout from on of the newer programs to see if you like it before you buy it!! You can be anywhere, at any time and follow a workout from the program you select! 

Which Workouts will be part of On Demand:

  • P90x, P90x2, P90x3
  • Insanity
  • Turbo Fire
  • Brazil Butt Lift
  • Ten Minute Trainer
  • ChaLEAN Extreme
  • Asylum Vol 1
  • Tony One on One (Vol. 1)
  • Hip Hop Abs
I don't know about you, but I'm pretty excited about this!! We travel a lot now (thanks to Beachbody) and I'm always packing up my workouts to take with me, but sometimes hotels don't have dvd players...so now instead of missing out on my workouts, I can just grab my phone or laptop and BOOM, stream my workout!! This is a game changer and now there will be absolutely no excuses to not get it done!! Convenience at it's finest!! Can't wait to share with you what kind of results I get from using the On Demand!! Stay Tuned!! 



Monday, February 2, 2015

The 21 Day Fix Extreme is Here: Get it Now And Get My Support to Complete It! Are You In??


The moment we have all been waiting for {well at least I have been waiting for} is here!!!! The 21 Day Fix EXTREME is officially available for purchase through me as your coach!!!!!


It's time to TURN UP THE HEAT ON YOUR RESULTS! It's time to take your fitness level to the max and get those abs and the muscle definition you have been working towards.  You might be reading this thinking that you are not necessarily looking for a ripped up body but you want to get your fitness to the next level and in that case this is absolutely for you too!  I would definitely say that if you are down to the last 10-20 pounds of your weight loss journey and you already have a base level of fitness then this program would be a good fit for you!

It combines strength training with steady state cardio and power moves to bring your body 6 days of intense change for your body! 

Nutrition is honestly 80% of your results and with Extreme you are going to be eating ONLY clean foods. So in the Fix you were able to have your wine or a treat once in a while. With the Extreme that is gone!  You are 100% clean and you are dialed into nutrition with the portion controlled containers and a list of approved foods and recipes to go along with that!

21 day fix extreme is here
So who is this program for?

1.  People who want a dramatic short term weight loss solution for a big event like a vacation, wedding, photo shoot ect....

2.  21 Day Fix Graduates or individuals who have completed programs like P90X, P90X3, Insanity Max30, T25, Turbofire, Asylum, Chalean Extreme.

3.  People who do not have a lot of weight to lose that are dedicated, committed to following the nutrition plan and have a no BS attitude.  There are no excuses, if you want the results its time to dig a little deeper and get them!  The biggest key to this program is the nutrition plan!  Having that will power to say no to the treats!  The great part is that you are not on this journey alone.  My job is to have you in my closed online support and accountability group and coach you through the entire program from beginning to end.  My goal is to make sure that you do in fact get the very best results possible.  I will provide daily accountability, tips, recipes, and we will cheer each other on and help each other stay focused when life gets in the way! Accountability was definitely the secret sauce for me!!!

4.  This program is also for people who don't want to count calories or macros. Its based on a simple and easy to follow portion controlled container system that gives you a very specific list of foods and ways to prep and prepare your meals.

Sample of Fix snack with containers
What do you get when you purchase this program?

Well the best way to get this program is with what is called a "challenge pack"  that is the 21 day fix extreme complete program.  7 workouts, the portion controlled containers, the nutrition guide, program manual, countdown to competition plan and a bonus DVD called the "CHALLENGE" which you only get when you order through me as your coach!  This comes with free shipping and a discounted price when you purchase the package this way! Honestly this is the best bang for your buck.  This also gives you access into my challenge group for the customized support, meal planning, tips, recipes, accountability, how to handle cravings, temptations and social events!  I won't let you fail.  If you want to succeed we will do this together!  I love my job and seeing other people reach their goals is the best feeling in the world.


I am also launching the 21 day fix extreme test group starting on the 9th of February!  I am going to help you set realistic goals, teach you how to follow the meal plan, how to plan your week, your days, your meals and snacks so that you can get the best results possible. We will hold each other accountable with a daily check in and rating of your day!  Our goal is to help you reach the results that you want!!!!  Do you want to do this program but you are AFRAID you will fail or that it will be another program that sits on the shelf and collects dust?  Well then join the accountability group! It does not cost anything additional.  It's just a perk of purchasing the program through me as your coach!  

If you are ready to change, I will help you succeed!!!!!

Why am I doing the 21 day fix???  I am going on a Team Beachbody Trip in 2 months and I want to tone, tighten and feel wonderful in my bathing suit and summer clothes!  I love the feeling of being confident because I am eating healthy and exercising!  My goal is to just be in the best shape I can personally be for myself!  I'm doing this to bust out of my winter body and be ready for the warmer weather when it arrives!  IT takes more than 1 month to reach your ultimate goals with your health and fitness!  So I know that if I start now I will be at the goal when the weather warms up!

Get the 21 Day Fix EXTREME NOW!!!!! HERE


To get the Fix Extreme and have me as your accountability coach click here!

Complete the application for my group:


Wednesday, January 28, 2015

What is the 21 Day Fix EXTREME?


Do You Want the 21 Day Fix EXTREME? Click for Application


A year ago, almost to the day, Team Beachbody  launched the now #1 home fitness program the 21 Day Fix Created by Autumn Calabrese! The 30 minute total body workouts paired with the easy to follow nutrition guide and portion controlled containers created amazing buzz and nothing short of breath taking results!  Seriously for ME personally nutrition and portions were the missing links to me results.  I was eating clean, working out regularly but I was not getting the results I wanted.  The portion controlled containers paired with a food list categorized by the most nutrient dense and highly recommended foods at the top and the lowest nutritional value foods at the bottom!  I began to see results, my body changed and I am walking proof along with my hundreds of fix graduates that it works!!!!  



So after a few rounds of the 21 Day Fix and after crushing your initial fitness goals 
Autumn realized that she needed something that can take your fitness to the NEXT level!  
So now we are excited to announce the launch of the brand new 21 Day Fix EXTREME!!! Coming February 2nd to anyone who has a Team Beachbody Coach 
(if you don't have one, make me your coach please).


The goal with the 21 Day Fix Extreme is to create killer results, more muscle tone, definition, tightened up nutrition plan and advanced moves.  This worked is truly meant to get you shredded.  Autumn actually shares her competition meal plan with you to help you shred those pesky pounds that many of us hold on to.



Who should buy the program?

21 Day Fix EXTREME is ideal for those with a dramatic short-term weight
loss deadline--such as an upcoming vacation, photo shoot, or other big event.
It's an excellent next step for 21 Day Fix graduates ready for a new challenge
or graduates of other extreme programs like P90X, Insanity, and FOCUS T25.
Fix EXTREME is also great for those who don't have much weight to lose,
but want to get shredded and see abs; those with a "no BS" attitude toward
workouts and nutrition; or anyone who doesn't want to count calories, weigh
 their food, or follow complicated recipes.

I would not recommend the 21 Day Fix Extreme for a beginner.
This is an advanced program.  Autumn did talk about that when she was in
 Pittsburgh for our event last weekend.  So I want to make sure that you know
 to do the 21 day fix FIRST before moving to this program!

So what are the details?
The program is 21 days long!
You do 1 30 minute workout each day.
You do not need a lot of space to do this workout.  A 6 square foot area is all that you need.
What type of shoes do you need?  Cross Trainers or aerobic shoes are necessary.

The workouts include:  
Plyo Fix Extreme, Upper Fix Extreme, Lower Fix Extreme, 
Pilates Fix Extreme, Cardio Fix Extreme, Dirty 30 Fix Extreme  and 
Yoga Fix Extreme. 

There will be a bonus workout that you get for ordering through a coach plus 
there is also additional workouts that you can purchase also. 

Power strength extreme and ABC Extreme.

What Comes with the 21 Day Fix Extreme

What are the workouts all about??

  • Plyo Fix Extreme: An explosive lower-body workout that uses jumping and resistance to torch calories and sculpt muscles.
  • Upper Fix Extreme :By alternating opposing muscle groups, this no-rest upper-body workout will shred the chest, back,shoulders, and arms.
  • Pilates Fix Extreme: Using a resistance band for every exercise, this intense mat workout works the entire body, placing emphasis on the core.
  • Lower Fix Extreme: Glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves will get stronger, leaner, and more defined with 30 minutes of challenging resistance work.
  • Cardio Fix Extreme: Combining weighted cardio moves with traditional metabolic training intervals keeps the heart ratesoaring.
  • Dirty 30 Extreme: Using only seven compound moves focusing on multiple body parts at a time, this workout will burn extra calories while defining muscles. Get down and dirty, and get it done.
  • Yoga Fix Extreme: A fast-paced flow yoga class, combining strength, balance, flexibility, and power.
  • Power Strength Extreme: Based on functional movement patterns, these nine total-body exercises will change the way the body moves, increasing strength, endurance, and power.
  • ABC Extreme: A 30-minute workout that targets common problem areas by pushing abs, butt, and cardio to the extreme.  It'll get that competition body ready for the stage.
  • The Fix Challenge: Keep things interesting and burn off calories with this quick resistance workout!
Autumn Calabrese and Me @ SoCal Beachbody Event


Lets talk nutrition plan!

While the 21 day fix allowed for wine and chocolate the 21 Day fix extreme does
not.  It is 100% clean eating for these 21 days.  You do have the option to eat out at restaurants but you still have to follow the nutritional guidelines laid out.  Just think about it this way!  You can do anything you put your mind to for 21 days.
I can say from previous experience with Insanity Max 30 that when I followed
the nutrition plan to the T I really got amazing results.  I have never had abs
before and they were popping out!  I really do attribute a lot of my progress to
nutrition.  So make sure to take this part extremely serious.

You will get the 21 day fix portion controlled containers with your program
purchase!



So do you want to be the first to get it??? 

21 Day Fix Extreme Results
Plus I am going to be hosting an EXCLUSIVE 21 Day Fix Extreme TEST Group where I will be mentoring you through the program, teaching you how to navigate the nutrition plan, create a meal plan, prep, give you snack ideas, recipes, and tips.  Plus you will get daily videos, motivation and accountability right from me in a closed online group!!!  Our goal is to set realistic and achievable goals and to go 100% in for 21 days to achieve the very best results we can achieve!!! 

Does this sound like something you would like to do?  If so, complete the application below to be considered for a spot in my exclusive test group!!!!


The launch date is set for February 2nd.  If you complete the application
 I will give you the details of my group plus get you up to speed with
launch details, extra information and tips!  What are you waiting for??
 Summer isn't that far away, imagine what you can accomplish in 21
days but really imagine the possibilities if you made this a lifestyle
change!  Ummm.... total transformation by June! It could really happen!
Let me help you make it a reality!!!



Tuesday, January 27, 2015

Super Bowl Sunday Recipes and Tips



LET'S GET READY TO RUMBLE...OH WAIT, THAT'S NOT FOOTBALL?

With Super Bowl coming up this weekend I think back to my past Super Bowls and all of the snacking, sitting on the couch, more snacking, cocktails, and more sitting...Did you know that more Americans gain wait on Super Bowl than any other day of the year! That's CRAY! Most of the food is smothered in ridiculousness of cheese and fats and grease! Leaving most people with half of their daily intake of calories consumed by half time. My old self would have relished in what then I considered "greasy goodness" but now it leaves me feeling gross and trying to find a way to avoid it, but still enjoy the day with family and friends! 

Being realistic, I know most everyone is going to indulge, but I'm hoping that these recipes may give you some better options, but still satisfy that thought of the "greasy goodness". You don't want to reverse all that hard work that most all of you are working towards as a result of your New Year's resolution! So...here are some tips and recipes that I am looking forward to this weekend! 



Tips:


  •  Don't show up to your party with an empty stomach!! I always drink my Shakeology right before I go to any party or function because I've realized it helps keep me away from hovering the appetizer and dessert platters! If you don't have Shakeology you can try eating some lean protein to help keep you full! 
  • Most people will find their seat next to the snacks, but the best seat in the house should be the closest to the TV, but the furthest away from the snacks! 
  • Be in the moment! The more your participate in watching the game and CHEERING for the team you hope to win, the less likely you'll have time to think about the food! 
  • Most importantly, don't slack on your workout!! Get up early and get it out of the way before you even leave the house! 
Snacks:

Sweet Potato Skins with Uncured Bacon

Original recipe from TeamBeachbody
We replaced fried white potatoes with nutrient-packed, baked sweet potatoes in this light and healthy makeover of a popular bar snack. Instead of bacon and sour cream, our recipe uses turkey bacon and Greek yogurt. Get the Recipe. 


Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Original Recipe From TeamBeachbody
These tangy, spicy chicken tenders dipped in creamy blue cheese sauce are delicious enough to make you forget they’re only 158 calories per serving. Get the Recipe

Almond Crust Chicken Fingers with Honey Mustard Sauce
Original Recipe from TeamBeachbody
These chicken fingers are baked, not fried, and have a crunchy almond crust. Get the Recipe.

Habanero Chili
Original Recipe TeamBeachbody
This hot, flavorful chili is tasty and filling. Get the Recipe.

Hummus Filled Hardboiled Eggs
Original Recipe TeamBeachbody



These can be made with homemade hummus recipe below. I’ll let you in on a little secret, when I photographed these eggs, the amount of hummus in the recipe didn’t quite fill the center of the egg white, so I dropped a single garbanzo bean into the center of each to take up space…and I loved the texture it added. Get the Recipe.


Dip

Healthier Seven Layer Dip

Original Recipe TeamBeachbody
What is a game day buffet table without a seven-layer dip? We created a lighter version that has all of the flavor and only 136 calories per serving. Get the Recipe

French Onion Dip

Original Recipe TeamBeachbody

When I was a kid, French onion dip was the go-to appetizer at every party. Back then, we made if from a powdered mix and sour cream. I experimented with a healthier way to create this favorite dip from scratch using caramelized onions and nonfat yogurt. The result? It’s even tastier than the original. Get the Recipe.

Chips

Baked Corn Tortilla Chips

Original Recipe Teambeachbody

These baked corn tortilla chips taste fresh and have a satisfying crunch you’ll love, without the guilt. Serve with the seven layer dip or dress them up with a squeeze of fresh lime and a touch of salt. Get the Recipe. 


ENJOY!!

Buffalo Chicken Tenders



These tangy, spicy chicken tenders dipped in creamy blue cheese sauce are delicious enough to make you forget they’re only 158 calories per serving.
Total Time: 50 min.
Prep Time: 5 min.
Cooking Time: 15 min.
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
4 Tbsp. hot pepper sauce (like Frank’s®), divided use
2 Tbsp. white vinegar
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. paprika
1 dash cayenne pepper (to taste; optional)
1 lb. raw chicken tenders
¼ cup nonfat plain yogurt
1 Tbsp. crumbled blue cheese
4 medium celery stalks, cut into sticks
Preparation:
1. Combine 1 Tbsp. hot sauce, vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne in a small bowl; mix well.
2. Add chicken; toss to coat. Marinate, covered, in refrigerator for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat oven to 375° F.
4. Place chicken in a baking dish. Discard any remaining marinade. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until chicken is no longer pink in the middle.
5. Combine yogurt and cheese in a small bowl; mix well. Set aside.
6. Combine chicken and remaining 3 Tbsp. hot sauce in a large bowl; toss gently to blend.
7. Serve chicken with dip and celery.

Sweet Potato Skins with Uncured Bacon



Nutritious baked sweet potatoes replace fried white potatoes in this healthy makeover of a popular bar snack. Instead of fatty bacon and sour cream, our sweet potato skins recipe uses turkey bacon and nonfat Greek yogurt. With only 190 calories per serving, they make a delicious snack, and can even be eaten for lunch or dinner.
Total Time: 20 min.
Prep Time: 10 min.
Cooking Time: 10 min.
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
4 baked medium sweet potatoes, cut in half
1 tsp. olive oil
½ tsp. sea salt (or Himalayan salt)
8 Tbsp. low-fat plain Greek yogurt
2 slices cooked turkey bacon, chopped
2 medium tomatoes, chopped
8 green onions, thinly sliced
Preparation:
1. Heat oven to 400° F.
2. Scoop flesh out of sweet potatoes and reserve for another use.
3. Place skins on a baking sheet. Brush with oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 10 minutes, or until crisp.
4. Top each sweet potato half evenly with yogurt, turkey bacon, tomato, and green onions.

Almond Crusted Chicken Fingers with Mustard Sauce



This kid-friendly meal is great for adults too!
Total Time: 35 min.
Prep Time: 15 min.
Cooking Time: 20 min.
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
2 Tbsp. raw honey
2 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
2 tsp. rice wine vinegar
Nonstick cooking spray (or olive oil cooking spray)
2 large eggs
2 Tbsp. water
1 lb. raw chicken breast tenders, skinless
1 cup whole wheat Panko bread crumbs (Japanese-style bread crumbs)
½ cup finely chopped sliced almonds
1 dash tsp. sea salt
1 dash tsp. ground black pepper
Preparation:
1. Combine honey, mustard, and vinegar in a small bowl; mix well. Chill.
2. Preheat oven to 425° F.
3. Line baking sheet with foil; lightly coat with spray.
4. Combine eggs and water in a medium shallow bowl; whisk to blend.
5. Soak chicken in egg mixture for 30 minutes, turning once; set aside.
6. Combine bread crumbs, almonds, salt, and pepper in a large resealable plastic bag; shake to combine.
7. Working with a few pieces at a time, lift chicken from egg mixture, letting excess drip back into bowl, and drop into bag containing bread crumb mixture. Seal bag and shake to coat; repeat with remaining chicken.
8.Place chicken on prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, turning after 10 minutes, until no longer pink in the middle and golden brown.
9. Serve with honey mustard dipping sauce.

Habanero Chili




This hot, flavorful chili is so tasty, even meat eaters will love this recipe.
Total Time: 35 min.
Prep Time: 15 min.
Cooking Time: 20 min.
Yield: 10 servings, about 1 cup each
Ingredients:
2 lbs. seitan
Nonstick cooking spray
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 habanero pepper, seeded and deveined, chopped (use gloves to handle)
1 tsp. chili powder
½ tsp. paprika
½ tsp. sea salt (to taste; optional)
1 dash ground black pepper
1 14.5 oz can black beans, do not drain
1 14.5 oz can kidney beans, do not drain
2 medium tomatoes, chopped
Preparation:
1. Place seitan in food processor; pulse until it has the consistency of ground beef. Set aside.
2. Heat large skillet, lightly coated with spray over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion; cook, stirring frequently, for 5 to 7 minutes, or until translucent.
3. Add garlic, habanero pepper, and seitan; cook, stirring frequently, for 3 to 4 minutes, or until seitan is golden brown.
4. Add chili powder, paprika, salt (if desired), and pepper; cook, stirring frequently, for 2 more minutes.
5. Add black beans, kidney beans, and tomatoes; cook, stirring frequently, for 5 to 7 minutes, or until mixture is heated through.
Tip: Serve chili on top of cooked whole grain pasta (½ cup). Any remaining chili can be frozen to be reheated at a later time.
Tip: If you find habanero too spicy, substitute with jalapeƱo.