Amaranth Pizza "Pasta" Wraps

This recipe was inspired by amaranth, a whole-grain, gluten free staple unique to the Aztecs.  It contains all of the essential amino acids, including lysine, which is lacking in most grains.  Amaranth is a complete protein and is extremely versatile! It adds protein and texture to this delicious baked dish.

Ingredients
1 Spaghetti squash
2 1/2 c. Vegetable broth

1 c. Bob's Red Mill Amaranth

2 t. Garlic powder

2 t. Italian seasoning 

2 t. Onion powder

2 T. Olive oil
1 1/2 c. chopped tomatoes

5 low carb wraps

1 1/2 c. Mozzarella cheese
2 c. marinara sauce
1/2 c. Mozzarella cheese (as topping)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Split spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and place it face up in a baking dish with 1/4 c. of water.  Bake for approximately 40-45 minutes. Allow to cool, then use fork to "pull" out spaghetti-like strands into bowl.

Bring vegetable broth to a boil.  Add amaranth.  Reduce to simmer and cook for approximately 25 minutes.

Mix seasonings, olive oil,  1 1/2 c. cheese and tomatoes in bowl with spaghetti squash.  Coat baking dish with cooking oil and begin to fill each wrap with mixture, rolling and stacking alongside each other.  Top with 2 c. marinara sauce and remaining 1/2 c. cheese.  Bake for approximately 30-40 minutes.

Fuel Your Fitness Grocery List

Maintaining a healthy diet does not have to be stressful and time consuming.  Equipped with the right resources, it IS possible to plan meals for the week, shop efficiently and prepare food that is full of nutrients and flavor!

I have created the following list based on personal experience and resources that I have come to trust over the years. I am a certified personal trainer and certified fitness instructor with over 15 years of experience in the industry.  Please be advised that it is best to consult your doctor or a registered dietitian if you have specific dietary needs.  The following tips offer advice to ease the stress of shopping.

• Emphasize moderation and prioritize foods that are minimally processed. 
• Eat for energy! Provide your body with the right kind of fuel and you'll feel less tired and more energetic.
• Avoid labeling food as "good" or "bad." 
• Be aware of excess sugar and the impact it has on your health.  Here is a great article by Kristin Kirkpatrick of Huffington Post, 10 Things You Don't Know About Sugar.
• Also be aware of prices and the impact they have on your wallet! 
• If you're looking to improve your financial fitness, I suggest downloading apps to your favorite grocery stores.  Typically they feature sale prices, coupons and more.  My favorite is the Target Cartwheel app.  From time to time I use the Kroger and Winn Dixie apps.

Carbohydrates

Quinoa

Brown Rice

Sweet Potato

Whole Wheat Pasta

Oatmeal (The flavored varieties have a lot of added sugar, stick with unflavored and add fruit, protein powder, nut butters and more)

Low Carb Tortillas
Ezekiel Bread or Whole Wheat Bread
Fresh, Frozen or Canned in Light Syrup Fruit (prioritize fresh, then frozen, then canned)
Fresh, Frozen or No Salt Added Canned Vegetables


Fats
Coconut Oil
Olive Oil
Avocado
Nut Butters (Natural, avoid reduced fat because they contain a lot of added sugar)
Fish Oil


Proteins
Nonfat, Plain Greek Yogurt
Lowfat Cottage Cheese
Tofu
White Meat Chicken or Turkey (remove skin)
Beef: Round, Sirloin, Chuck Arm, Loin, and Extra-Lean Ground
Pork: Leg, Shoulder, Tenderloin
Protein Powders (There are a lot of great options at Vitamin Shoppe. Shipping is FREE when you spend $25 or more.)
Eggs
Beans
Legumes
Lentils
Fish and Shellfish (Not battered)

Misc.
Mustard
Hot Sauce

Salsa

Herbs & Spices

Flavored Vinegars

Tea

Coffee

Be proud of yourself for taking the time to plan your meals and shop wisely.  Nutrition is just one component of a healthy lifestyle.  Make sure include restoration and activity as well.  For more information about my online programs and Fuel Your Fitness Method, click here. What are YOUR favorite healthy shopping tips? Have I left any off the list? Comment below and share on social media with #FYFmethod!

Healthy Eating for the Person Who Hates to Prep: Part 2

In the first part of this two part series, I discussed methods for eating healthy while maintaining a busy life.  The majority of us do not have the time to shop for and cook elaborate meals on a daily basis.  Below, I have listed a variety of food combinations that I incorporate as snacks and meals throughout the day.   Keep in mind I am a vegetarian, so feel free to add your choice of protein to the following (egg, chicken, tuna, other lean meats).  At some point, I'm pretty sure I have eaten any of the following as breakfast, lunch OR dinner.

• Italian Nachos.  This consists of a low carb tortilla wrap and blue corn tortilla chips topped with melted mozzarella shredded cheese, marinara sauce and spinach.  Add your choice of protein which, for me, is usually black beans.
• Oatmeal Concoction.  This is my creative name for regular oatmeal topped with natural peanut butter.  It gets more exciting when I add fresh fruit, honey, yogurt, protein powder, chunks of Quest bars...anything!  I also add cinnamon because it is an anti-inflammatory and helps stabilize blood sugar levels.  Just be sure to watch portions because it's easy to go overboard and the calories will add up.
• Nicecream.  I have been making "nice cream" for quite some time. But it wasn't until I discovered the hashtag that I realized there was a name for it.  Basically, I freeze bananas (break into chunks first and store in a ziploc bag), then blend with a scoop of protein and a minimal amount of almond milk.  The result is a protein shake so thick, you can eat it with a spoon. Thus, resembling ice cream.  Feel free to use fruits other than bananas!  Add protein for more flavor and nutrients!
• Protein Jello.  Prepare sugar free jello as instructed.  Before refrigerating, add 1 container of nonfat Greek yogurt and mix thoroughly.
• Cottage Cheese and Chips. Or cottage cheese and crackers! Veggies! Pretzels! Cottage cheese is high in casein protein, which is digested slowly and keeps you feeling full.  I've been know to add salsa to this as well.
• ProYo Bowl.  This is a combination of nonfat greek yogurt with protein powder, mixed with some water.  This "bowl" is similar to the oatmeal recipe listed above.  Once I stir the yogurt and protein with some water, I get creative.  I'll add raisins, nut butter, fruit, Kashi cereal, etc.  Again, watch portions because it's easy to go overboard and the calories will add up.

• Sweet Potato Fries.  Microwave your sweet potatoes, let cool and then cut into slices.  Mix with coconut oil (about 1 T. per large potato) and cinnamon.  Bake for 15-20 minutes at 375 or until crispy.
• Veggie Wrap.  Has anyone else tried those individual boxes of vegetable medleys from Green Giant?? I love them! I'll cook one and put in on top of a low carb wrap, then top with cottage cheese.
• PBJ! A classic favorite.  I recommend using Ezekiel bread because of it's a source of complete protein.  My favorite peanut butter is Skippy's low sugar/low sodium, natural variety.  Opt for fresh strawberries or a low sugar jam.
• Popcorn.  Using popcorn seeds and a brown paper lunch bag, I make my own! This allows you to add your own choice (and amounts) of toppings.  Place about 1/4 c. of seeds in a brown paper lunch bag.  Seal the top by folding it over a couple of times.  Microwave for 2-3 minutes or as needed.  I'll usually top with butter spray.  I have also sprinkled it with low sodium taco powder.  Ranch dressing mix is another option I have used.
• Fiesta Bowl.  Brown rice, black beans and salsa. Add avocado for some healthy fats! Want more greens? Add spinach!
• Quest bars!  When all else fails. 

Have you tried these snacks or do you have ones that are similar?

Comment below or tag me on social media at @inspirelingefitness.  I'd love to hear from you.

Healthy Eating for the Person Who Hates to Prep: Part I

There are days I wish I spent more time "cooking." That I could fully stock my kitchen, get out the pots and pans, and bring to life every recipe I have saved on Pinterest. Every once in a while, it happens. I preheat the oven. I boil water. I chop vegetables. Unfortunately, this doesn't happen as often as I would like.

In the "meantime" I have managed to stay healthy and eat nutritiously with simple recipes that require very few ingredients and minimal prep time. I will be sharing those with with you in part 2 of this series. Until then, the following information provides a very honest overview of my eating habits and preferences.

• I tend to snack throughout the day rather than consume an official breakfast, lunch or dinner. 
• Overall, the goal should be to consume minimally processed, whole foods. Anything else should be consumed in moderation.  
• Research has shown that when people have MORE food options, they tend to consume more (i.e. overeat). When people stick with their tried and true favorites, they are less likely to overindulge.  
• These suggestions are based on what I have observed, learned and what works for me.  
• The goal is to use them as inspiration to find a plan that works for YOU!  

Now that you familiar with some of my philosophies on nutrition, I would like to share some tips from my online client, Tod Meisner. Tod is the Executive Director of Client Leadership with Verge Pipe Media. Recently, has learned how to prioritize his health along with a career, son and personal life. The following are realistic action items that have helped him maintain his fitness and keep him feeling his best.

• Make sure to eat breakfast, anything healthy.  I tend to have multi-grain cereal and milk or a protein bar.  That's when I take my vitamins too.
• Try to plan ahead for lunch or, in other words, stick with your routine.  You will find yourself eating junk or picking a place to eat that's not healthy if you don't plan accordingly.  Bring a healthy lunch with you.
• Don't be afraid to have small snacks. I've seen good luck losing or maintaining healthy weight when I have a mid-morning or mid-afternoon snack.  Protein and fruit is a great combination.
• Grocery shopping--don't grocery shop on an empty stomach!  You will regrettably buy something less healthy because you are hungry.  I'm a list guy, so I suggest always having a list and making sure you have the essentials.

For more ideas regarding healthy (and easy!) eating, visit some of my favorite resources.
Ripped Recipes
Skinnytaste
Fit Men Cook
Got a sweet tooth? Be sure to visit Chocolate Covered Katie
For hundreds more of my favorites, head to my Pinterest page Reasons to Cook More Often

Optimal Snacks for Optimal Health

Do you find yourself continually losing attention and dozing off between the hours of 3pm and 4pm? Not sure you can survive the 11am hour before heading to lunch? You will be happy to hear that snacking two hours after your lunch (or an hour before) can prevent this from happening. A snack that contains fiber, some protein, healthy carbs and healthy fat slows digestion and provides steady energy to calm your cravings. The same principle also applies in the morning, depending on the time frame between breakfast and lunch, if you find yourself ravenous. Otherwise, you may be more likely to choose unhealthy foods and risk overeating at lunch time.

While we focus on healthy eating to prepare our breakfast, lunch and dinner, it is equally important to consider the quality and timing of our snacks as well. Consumed throughout the day, healthy snacks will stabilize your blood sugar, serve as a source of protein for your muscles, and provide carbohydrates to keep you energized and focused on the task at hand. Carbohydrates are your brain's primary source of fuel. The body breaks carbohydrates into glucose, which it uses toward brain activity.

Popcorn and a Low Fat Cheese Stick
Be aware of the microwavable popcorn you find in the chips and dips aisle at the grocery store. Many are loaded with saturated fat and are high in calories. Without these additives, popcorn is a very nutritious source of fiber and many nutrients. Check out my previous blog for a simple and easy way to make a healthy version--using just seeds and a brown paper lunch bag!

Carrots and Hummus
A perfect combination of crunchy and creamy. The carrots provide a solid source of healthy carbs and the hummus is derived from chickpeas, a healthy source of protein.

Peanuts and Raisins
Ahhhh...my favorite! I have this daily. It is a great sweety-salt combination and the fats from the peanuts are very satiating. While dried fruit and nuts tend to be high in calories, I prepare this snack in a plastic baggie so I have a single serving of each.

Apple
I like to pair an apple with a protein or fat source. Any of the following are great examples.
-Cottage Cheese
-Protein Shake (Quest Nutrition Salted Caramel is my current fave!)
-Peanut butter
-Greek Yogurt

Quest Nutrition Bar
Quest bars are a great source of whey isolate protein which has been shown to increase muscle mass, aid in the loss of body fat, enhance immune function and much more. They're gluten free and contain 17g of fiber too so they'll keep you full! Almost every ounce of carbohydrate in the bars comes from fiber, which will keep your insulin levels low and your stomach satisfied. Fiber has been shown to do many things such as controlling hunger, improving digestive health and preventing certain diseases. Click here to order your Quest bar (shipping is free on orders over $25).

Oatmeal with Peanut Butter
I have been addicted to this since a friend told me about it in college! Cannot tell you how many others have become addicted as well. Try it, you will love it! Keeps you full for hours.

Tea
Sometimes you may not be hungry at all, just restless and/or dehydrated. There are several benefits to drinking tea, including increased alertness without the jitters induced by the caffeine in a coffee. Green tea also improves your body's ability to burn fat!

Yogurt and Peanut Butter
This one may sound strange at first, but again, like the peanuts and raisins it's an amazing treat to satisfy your salty-sweet cravings. Add a piece of fruit for a complete snack!

Coconut Chia Seed Pudding

This is a super convenient, nutrient dense breakfast that could be enjoyed any time of the day. It requires only a few ingredients and a sealed container. 

1 1/2 cups oatmeal

1/4 cup chia seeds

1/4 cup maple syrup 

2 T coconut oil

2 t cinnamon

3/4 cup coconut milk

Mix all ingredients. Refrigerate overnight.

Chia seeds are an excellent vegetarian source of protein, much higher than most plant foods.  Protein is a weightless friendly macronutrient that can reduce appetite and cravings.  Coconut oil is high in short and medium chain fatty acids, which are easily digested and sent right to the liver, providing instant energy.  What are your favorite ways to incorporate chia seeds and coconut oil into your diet? Comment below or tag me on social media! @inspirelingefitness

Zucchini Crust Pizza

This tasty treat is fun to make and provides a low carb source of nutrients.  One zucchini has just 25 calories and it has more potassium than a banana!  

Ingredients

1 zucchini

1 egg

1/4 cup bread crumbs

1/2 cup parmesan cheese

1 t. sea salt

1 t. cayenne pepper

3/4 c. low fat, shredded mozzarella cheese

3/4 c. sauce

Preheat oven to 450.  Line pizza pan with foil.  Shred (or use the Veggetti) zucchini.  Chop into fine pieces.  Use paper towel to absorb as much moisture as possible.  Combine zucchini in a large bowl the egg, bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, salt and cayenne pepper. Mix and then spread onto foil lined pan.  Top with sauce and cheese, along with any meats or veggies you would like to add.  Bake for approximately 15 minutes.  Allow the pizza to cool so the crust is as dense as possible.

Pumpkin Coconut Cupcakes

Infused with ginger and cinnamon, these coconut topped cupcakes are a delicious way to sneak in some healthy fats and fiber!  The saturated fats in coconut oil contain medium chain triglycerides, which are metabolized differently than long chain fatty acids, and can have therapeutic effects. Pumpkin in a great source of fiber, providing more than 20 percent of the daily value for fiber in one serving.  This helps keep you full and can reduce hunger. 

Ingredients

1 15 oz can of pumpkin

2 t. baking powder

2 t. cinnamon

1 t. ginger 

3/4 c. almond flour

1/4 c. Coconut Oil

1 T. vanilla extract

1/2 c. nonfat Greek yogurt

4 packets of xylitol

1 T. vanilla extract

1/4 c. shredded coconut

Preheat oven to 400 degrees and place liners in muffin pan. Mix the pumpkin, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, almond meal, coconut oil and vanilla extract.  Distribute evenly into muffin liners. Bake for approximately 45 minutes.  Allow to cool before frosting.  To make frosting, stir nonfat Greek yogurt with stevia and vanilla extract.  Top with shredded coconut and cinnamon.

Cauliflower Parmesan Bites

Cauliflower Parmesan Bites! With pumpkin seed sprinkles. My friend has been raving about pumpkin seeds so I picked some up during my last trip to Trader Joe's. A 1/4 cup serving contains 15g of fat, 6 which are polyunsaturated and 5 which are monounsaturated. 

Studies show that eating foods rich in monounsaturated fats (MUFAs) improves blood cholesterol levels, which can decrease your risk of heart disease. Research also shows that MUFAs may benefit insulin levels and blood sugar control, which helps control cravings and energy levels. 

Evidence shows that eating foods rich in polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs) improves blood cholesterol levels, which can decrease your risk of heart disease. 

HOW TO MAKE THIS TREAT?

I steamed the cauliflower in the microwave, dipped in almond meal, then dipped in liquid egg whites, and coated in a mixture of garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, Parmesan cheese and nutritional yeast. I cooked on the skillet with about 2 T of olive oil (another healthy fat!). 

Ingredients
2 1/2 cups cooked cauliflower
1/2 cup almond meal
3/4 cup liquid egg white
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
3 T. nutritional yeast
2 t. garlic powder
2 t. onion powder
2 t. cayenne pepper
2 T. pumpkin seeds
2 T. olive oil

Four Ingredient Protein Pizza - Gluten Free!

Yes, it's true. And easy! And healthy! I've made something similar before, in the microwave. But to be blog-worthy, I decided to use the oven. Chances are you may already have the ingredients to make this. 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 

Combine equal parts liquid egg white and brown rice flour. 

Coat a pan with olive oil to prevent sticking (ok, there's a 5th ingredient) and pour/spread "dough" onto it.  Don't fret, he dough will likely be a little runny before it is baked.

Top with sauce, cheese, and whatever yumminess you like. 

Bake for 15-20 minutes.  Enjoy! 

Spaghetti Squash Stir Fry

Spaghetti Squash Stir Fry! Not gonna lie, this was my first time making stir fry. I love spaghetti squash, I need to eat more veggies, why not get creative with it??

Ingredients

1 cooked Spaghetti squash

2 T. Garlic

1/4 c. Liquid aminos

1/2 c. Apple cider vinegar

1 cup Snap peas

1 cup Broccoli

1 cup Bell pepper

Directions

Cook the spaghetti squash in the microwave by poking it with a fork a few times then cooking for 5 minutes. Let cool. Slice in half and use fork to "pull" strings. Put chopped veggies and squash into frying pan, add garlic, apple cider vinegar, and liquid aminos. Takes about ten minutes to cook, stirring occasionally. 

Did you know Braggs liquid aminos contain16 essential and non-essential amino acids? This means that you won't have to struggle to combine different kinds of proteins. You can add Braggs to anything you are eating to provide a distinct savory, "meaty" flavor while cooking. 

Spicy Sweet Potato Fries Wrap

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Microwave 2 small sweet potatoes for 3-4 minutes, until they are soft, but not mushy. Cut into slices and coat with approximately 3 T olive oil, 2 t cayenne pepper, 2 t oregano,  2 t Spike and 2 t nutritional yeast. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Place a handful onto low carb wrap and top with low fat cottage cheese. Enjoy!