So, it’s a brand new year and we’re all a little wiser fatter, right? I don’t make resolutions, but I do try to get back to some type of normalcy with my eating. And thank goodness everyone else does too. Makes it easier! You’re all such enablers. Lol.
I sure could go for a big ‘ol bowl of carrots right now. Or any of the following…
Date and Nut Butter Balls – they are naturally sweetened with dates and full of delicious nuts; packed full of nutrients, protein, and fiber to give you fuel for the day. I usually eat one or two before running. At only 104 calories a ball, there’s no guilt.
Eggs Benedict with Smoked Salmon – my absolute favorite breakfast, taken down a notch…but only in calories, not deliciousness.
Asian Grilled Steak Salad – this has all those great components that a salad of substance should have, imho – fresh produce, acidity, sweetness, and a flavorful dressing. Filling, yet light. I just love it.
White Bean Dip – great garlicky and lemony flavors, blended together with fresh herbs. Nice creamy texture. Another proven example of how a few simple ingredients can make magic.
Texas Caviar – black-eyed peas and peppers coated with a tasty vinaigrette. I could eat an entire bowl without batting an eye. But since we’re working on portion control, I will refrain. Maybe.
Chicken with Sofrito – an anything but boring chicken dish that’s coated in a fresh, healthy Spanish sauce and baked. Get in my belly!
Skinny Root Beer Banana Smoothie – are your bananas starting to turn brown? Cut them up and freeze them. Then they’ll be at the ready for this simple and tasty smoothie anytime!
Layered Greek Dip – the colors alone….
Roasted Acorn Squash with Onion, Grapes, & Thyme – all of it. So damn good. And not bad for you. Win!
Turkey and Cranberry Salad with Toasted Pecans and Smoked Gouda – this is from the Recipe Girl cookbook, with a great balance of ingredients, in flavor and in texture. Happiness.
Baked Coconut Chicken Tenders with Apricot Mustard Sauce – moist chicken, surrounded by a crispy sweet coconut shell, and then dipped into a tangy sauce. This is a big hit in my house.
Grilled Fish Tacos with Chili Lime Slaw – best grilled fish tacos I have ever had. The end.
How long do you think we’ll all last before we’re shoveling sugar again? Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Oy.
Happy New Year to you!
I already started my skinny new year 2 months, since I wanted to be way ahead of the game when this day came.
Does that make sense? lol
Honestly, I did too. Paul and I actually started running again daily and cutting back on our portions right after Thanksgiving. And I figure if I was able to maintain that through the treat-laden month of December, I can do anything! Happy New Year to you, too!
Yes, ma’am, these are happening. Because some of us want to fit into our wedding dresses next year. Ahem.
Hee heee! How much fun is it to say that?? So excited for you, friend <3
Thanks Amy. I’ve been thinking about the Texas Caviar for a few days now, black-eyed peas for New Year’s Day and all that. I’m putting them to soak now!!
Oh, you’re doing dried beans! Let me know how that comes out. I love that salad…it’s my friend at 3pm when I want to eat my entire pantry. Happy New Year to you, Andrea!
Thanks for these ideas, Amy. I am taking the greek dip to a party tonight, and the fish tacos are on my menu for next week, for sure! May 2014 be a wonderful year for you, Paul and the kids, and here’s hoping we finally get to meet in person!
YEEEESSSSS. We will make it happen, we will!
Lord only knows I need this after my Christmas shabang! Plus, the leftovers.!!Here’s a crummy part about empty nest–you are the ones eating the leftover candy. While that might sound like a good thing, after awhile, you just want it to go away, but you can’t throw away perfectly good food, right? Ugh. Tomorrow’s another year, right? And happy new year to you and your beautiful family. I hope it is a fabulous one for you!
No, I get it. It used to be that I wouldn’t want to part with the left over treats. But the last few years, I’ve been pawning it off on friends and family right as they’re leaving, so they can’t say no! Happy New Year, Julie! Here’s to a great 2014!