Try a New Spice Day!

One of my favorite things to do is to try a new spice! Fresh or dried it is always  fun to add a new spice to chicken or veggies just to see what happens.Add a little at a time and taste as you go!!

(Make sure your chicken is cooked first..lol)

One good way to do this is to take a culinary journey done the "ethinic food" isle at your grocery store. There are always great Asian, Spanish, Mediterranean, etc. spices! 

My rule of thumb: The Harder to Pronounce the Spice the Better It Must Be! 

Tip: if you are weary of spicy spices try to smell your new spice before buying, if you can. When in doubt ask or do some quick smart phone research...So you aren't shocked at dinner when flames fly out of your ears! 

Try these spices:

Za'atar: Mediterranean spice, made up of thyme, sesame seeds, sumac and salt

Sumac:Middle East/ African spice, pairs well with meats and fish

Aleppo pepper: Syria/ Turkey, slightly sweet mild pepper

Piment D'Espelette: French spice, often replacing pepper

Enjoy!

 

Spring Has Sprung! Let's Get Cookin'

In light of the BEAUTIFUL weather that is upon us, lets cook up some tasty and healthy spring meals!

I don't think there is anything better than a cool, crisp sandwich to go along with the warm breeze of Spring. So, how about a healthy spin on your favorite sandwiches.

Spring Tips for Healthy Sandwiches:

1. Go Whole Wheat! Whether loaf or wrap, always opt for whole wheat over white and cheesy breads. 

2. Watch out for the dressings!! Many dressings are tasty and can be deceivingly fattening. Go with low or no fat dressings or just do without. Salt/Pepper and a Light Vinaigrette dressing should spice up your sandwich and not leave you with guilt.

3. Veg? Yes, please! Nothing is better than a sandwich loaded with my favorite veggies. I never feel bad about piling them high. Sometimes, nothing else is needed. I love making veggie wraps and feel so refreshed after eating one.

4.One slice is enough for me! Do one slice of cheese, instead of two/three. It will add the flavor but not the fat.

5.Pair me up, Scotty!  Pair your sandwich with a salad or apple, instead of chips or french fries. This will do wonders on the waist line. 

Enjoy!

Life Took Over! Im sorry blog :(

So life took over and I haven't had time to blog. But, here is another great recipe to get us back on track.

 

Meatloaf is a great home-style meal but can be very bad for you! All the fat, calories, cholesterol. Here is a more healthy option for this hearty meal.

Ingredients:

Meat Loaf

-2 lb ground turkey breast

-1.5 cup wheat bread crumbs

-2 egg whites

-1 garlic clove

-1onion

-3/4 cup peas (optional)

Sauce

-1 cup ketchup

-1/2 cup mustard

-1 tbs hot sauce

-1tbs lemon juice

-1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Recipe:

1. Heat oven to 400 degrees C. 

2.  Fold together turkey, bread crumbs, onion, garlic, peas, and eggs. Be careful not over mix the turkey.

3. Mix all sauce ingredients and salt/pepper to taste.

4. Make mixture into patties and cover with sauce.

5.Bake on grilling tray or in cupcake tins for 1 hour or until 165 degrees internally.

*I have made this a ton of times and live to serve with steamed veggies or sweet potato fries.

Enjoy!