From schools ending abruptly, to workplaces no longer being a thing, the cancelation of summer camps, empty nests becoming full houses again and summer vacations turning into social distancing at the beach…it is a challenge trying to stay calm and healthy, yet sprinkle in rays of sunshine and laughter as much as possible. Cooking can easily be placed on the back burner. And by back burner, I mean not even desiring to turn on the burner or oven amongst the heat and stir crazy feeling in your own kitchen. How can we spark some culinary energy? How do we keep things cool, yet creative? You do not have to turn your oven on to prepare a tasty, satisfying meal. When working with fresh produce, a fridge, freezer, and blender, you can stimulate your taste buds by trying new foods and new methods of meal prep. You’ll activate pathways in your brain that fight boredom and promote happiness. You’re bound to discover some fun and tasty foods to bring more joy and creativity into your daily life. And hopefully, all of those around you too! Cool down with flavored ice Take your cocktail, mocktail, or pitcher of water to the next level by making flavored ice cubes. All you need is water, an ice cube tray, and some fruit and fresh herbs. Simple, satisfying, hydrating creativity. Fill your ice cube tray about 1/3 of the way with water. Then add some fresh squeezed lemon or lime juice, along with some chopped fresh herbs or fruits. Freeze overnight and get ready to experience the flavor-infusing power of your ice cube efforts in your daily water, or next fresh beverage creation. Here are some tasty combinations:
Let’s NOT turn on the oven. Just don’t do it. Stay cool. Keep it simple. But tasty. Mix and match with one item from two or three, or as I suggest, all of categories. Toss them together. Munch time. Start with a base of GREENS (at least 1–2 cups per serving):
Add a lean PROTEIN (suggest 3–5 ounces per serving):
Add a WHOLE GRAIN (suggest 1/3–1 cup per serving):
Add some FRESH or FROZEN PRODUCE (unlimited; cut into bite-size pieces):
Add a DRESSING of sorts (suggest 2 tablespoons per serving):
Add some FRESH HERBS (umlimited):
Add any additional desires (suggest 1–2 tablespoons total, per serving):
Need some help with protein & veggie combos?
For comments, thoughts, requests or anything else you feel the need to share, please do: amysmargulies@gmail.com
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The rebellious RdAs a longtime promoter of healthy cooking and eating, Amy's focus is on plant-based eating, with a rebellious twist - that she and no one, needs to be perfect. Archives
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