Nifty Idea for Health Nuts on the GO!!!

So I came across a great idea and I had to share it because I love a healthy smoothie in the morning.... but I hate removing 13 items from my fridge every time I make one! This will save you so much time and will make sure you are always getting your favorite add ons to your morning smoothie. I have recently discovered the awesomeness that is coconut water. I don't really care for the taste on its own, but it is awesome to replace the juice you would normally add to a smoothie. Its super low in sugar and calories but packed with vitamins and minerals, especially potassium. Great for after workouts! You can obviously replace or add anything you like to these, but this combination is pretty spectacular :)

Santa must have been into the wine last night?

Super Smoothie Ice Cubes

1 bag spinach, washed 

1 cup plain soy milk (you could also use almond or rice)

1 cup coconut water

1/2 cup pomegranate juice

2-3 tablespoon pumpkin seed protein powder (or any protein powder you have)

Place all ingredient in a blender and blend on high for 1-2 minutes until absolutely smooth. Pour contents of blender into ice cube trays. This makes about 2 trays. Place trays flat in freezer until frozen, pop out of trays and place a plastic bag. 

Now when you want some veggies and protein in your morning smoothie just grab 2 or three cubes and add your favorite fruit, yogurt, juice, or whatever you want! 

Mini Caprese Salads

My friend Leslie was daring enough to let me cater her sister-in-law, and her baby shower these past two weeks. It was my first time catering, and while at one point I was almost in tears, everything turned out okay. One of my favorite dishes I made were these cute little mini caprese salads. I know I have already made a caprese variation but I just love this flavor combination! I also have fresh basil growing in my window and that alone makes the flavor so much more spectacular. These come together quick and the wow factor will leave people thinking you slaved for hours. You can serve with plain balsamic vinegar and olive oil, or with a sweet balsamic reduction. Either way, you will love these!!

Mini Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction

1 container Bocconcini Mozzarella

1 pint cherry tomatoes

1 handful fresh basil

1  cup balsamic vinegar

In a small saucepan add vinegar and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer. 

While vinegar is reducing assemble your salads. Take a toothpick and skewer one tomato, followed by a basil leaf, and a bocconcini ball. If the cheese is fairly large, cut in half with a knife so everything is bite sized. 

Repeat until everything is used up. At this point (10-15 minutes later) the vinegar should be thick and syrup like. Place all your mini skewers on a serving plate and drizzle with reduction.  

Garlic and Herb Tomato Salad

If you are living in a place where you may have the last of your fresh tomatoes, this is a great recipe to try! Even if you have to use store bought tomatoes, this fresh and super easy recipe is a great side dish, and is healthy to boot. Basil and garlic are the perfect accompaniment to fresh tomatoes, and also a great alternative to the Halloween candy I am sure you are all still eating. I would be, but I already ate it all. 

Garlic and Herb Tomato Salad

 3 cups of tomatoes of your choice

2 cloves garlic

1/2 cup fresh basil

2 tablespoons onion

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and Pepper to taste

Cut tomatoes into manageable pieces. Cherry tomatoes halved and medium tomatoes in quarters. 

Mince garlic, dice onions, and chiffonade basil. 

Add all ingredients to a medium bowl, along with olive oil, salt and pepper. Toss to combine, and refrigerate for 1 hour before eating.