Lentil Quinoa Salad with Dill

 Lentil Quinoa Salad with Dill

Ingredients
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups water
  • 1  1/2 cups lentils, canned, drained and rinsed
  • 4 scallions, chopped
  • 1/4 cup dill, fresh, chopped
Directions

Prep

  1. Chop scallions and dill

Make

  1. Add quinoa and water to a small saucepot & bring to a boil
  2. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed
  3. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork
  4. Add warm cooked quinoa to a mixing bowl with lentils, dill, and scallions
  5. Add enough dressing to coat and serve warm or chilled
Dressing
Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 Tbs red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced or pressed
  • 1 Tbs lemon zest
  • salt, to taste
  • black pepper, to taste
Directions

Prep

  1. Mince or press garlic

Make

  1. Add all ingredients to a mason jar with a lid and shake to blend
Notes

Experiment with different combinations of grains, legumes, and herbs! 

Chicken Bone Broth Benefits and How To Video

Chicken Bone Broth Benefits and How To Video

Why do we love bone broth? These 3 benefits:

  1. Glycine Content: Bone broth contains the amino acid glycine, which is involved in the synthesis of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant. Glutathione plays a role in the detoxification of certain substances in the liver.
  2. General Nutrient Support: The vitamins, minerals, and amino acids in bone broth may support overall health, including the proper functioning of organs involved in detoxification. However, it’s important to note that a well-balanced and varied diet can provide these nutrients from multiple sources.
  3. Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial for supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes. Since bone broth is a liquid, it contributes to overall fluid intake, aiding in hydration.

What does the research say about bone broth benefits?

While bone broth is often touted for its health benefits, it’s important to note that the scientific evidence supporting some of these claims is limited, and more research is needed to establish definitive conclusions. That being said, here are some potential benefits of bone broth that are supported by at least some scientific evidence:

  1. Nutrient Content: Bone broth is rich in several nutrients, including collagen, gelatin, amino acids, and minerals. While the exact composition may vary, these elements contribute to the nutritional profile of the broth.
  2. Joint Health: Some studies suggest that collagen supplementation may have positive effects on joint pain and function. Collagen, a major component of bone broth, provides structural support to joints and connective tissues.
  3. Digestive Health: The amino acid glutamine, present in bone broth, is known for its role in maintaining the integrity of the intestinal barrier. This could potentially benefit individuals with certain digestive issues, although more research is needed.
  4. Hydration: Bone broth is a liquid, and staying hydrated is essential for overall health. Consuming broth can contribute to daily fluid intake.
  5. Electrolyte Balance: The electrolytes in bone broth, including sodium, potassium, and chloride, can help maintain electrolyte balance, especially during periods of illness or increased physical activity.
  6. Bone Health: The minerals found in bone broth, such as calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, are essential for bone health. However, it’s important to note that the concentration of these minerals may not be as high as in other sources.

It’s crucial to emphasize that while these potential benefits exist, more rigorous and comprehensive research is needed to draw firm conclusions. The evidence supporting bone broth’s efficacy for specific health conditions is often preliminary, and individual responses may vary. Furthermore, it’s essential to consider the overall diet and lifestyle, as relying solely on bone broth for nutritional needs may not provide a well-rounded source of essential nutrients.

Raspberry Hemp Overnight Oats

Raspberry Hemp Overnight Oats

Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, plain
  • 1 cup oats, rolled gluten free, if needed
  • 1 cup almond milk, unsweetened or milk of choice
  • 2 Tbs chia seeds
  • 1 Tbs maple syrup
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 lime, zested (for 1 tablespoon lime zest)
  • 1 Tbs hemp seeds for garnish
  • 1 cup raspberries, fresh
Directions

Prep

  1. Zest lime for 1 tablespoon of zest.

Make

  1. In a glass jar mix yogurt, oats, milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla, and lemon zest
  2. Add the top to the jar and shake
  3. Leave in the fridge overnight
  4. Top with hemp seeds and raspberries
The No-Cook Summer Recipe Series: Mango Salsa

The No-Cook Summer Recipe Series: Mango Salsa

Welcome to the last post of or series! Thank you for joining us as we embraced the cool and fresh, savoring the simplicity and beauty of uncooked ingredients. Beyond their convenience, no-cook recipes are a celebration of seasonal abundance and creativity.

This series was created with the summer heat in mind, so you can can stay fueled and cool all summer long!

Our last recipe of the series is a delightful combination of ripe, juicy mangoes, zesty lime juice, and colorful vegetables that come together in a burst of flavors. This sweet and tangy salsa is perfect for pairing with tortilla chips, as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, or as a refreshing side dish on a warm summer day.

Sweet and Tangy Mango Salsa

This Sweet and Tangy Mango Salsa is a celebration of tropical flavors that will add a burst of freshness and zest to your meals. Enjoy the delightful combination of juicy mangoes, zesty lime, and colorful vegetables in every spoonful!
Prep Time 6 minutes
chilling time 30 minutes
Total Time 36 minutes
Servings 6

Ingredients

  • 2 large ripe mangoes peeled, pitted, and diced
  • 1 medium red bell pepper diced
  • 1/2 red onion finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño seeded and diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • juice of one lime
  • 1 Tbsp honey
  • 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced mangoes, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, diced jalapeño pepper, and chopped cilantro.
  • In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey (or agave nectar), extra-virgin olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  • Pour the dressing over the mango and vegetable mixture in the large bowl.
  • Gently toss all the ingredients together until the salsa is evenly coated with the sweet and tangy dressing.
  • Taste the mango salsa and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more lime juice, salt, or honey to balance the flavors to your preference.
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mango salsa to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  • Before serving, give the salsa a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing.

Notes

Serve the Sweet and Tangy Mango Salsa as a refreshing dip with tortilla chips or as a flavorful topping for grilled chicken, fish, or tacos.
The No-Cook Summer Recipe Series: Cowboy Caviar

The No-Cook Summer Recipe Series: Cowboy Caviar

Gone are the days of slaving over a hot stove; instead, we invite you to continue to embark on a delightful journey of no-cook recipes that showcase the bountiful offerings of nature, transformed into nourishing masterpieces without the need for any heat.

This series was created with the summer heat in mind, so you can can stay fueled and cool all summer long!

Our third recipe is versatile- serve it as a side dish or dip for parties, gatherings, or family meals. Plus, you can prepare it in advance and let it sit in the fridge until you’re ready to serve, making it a convenient and delicious option to snack on throughout the week.

Cowboy Caviar

Cowboy Caviar, also known as Texas Caviar, is a zesty and flavorful salsa-style dip that combines a variety of colorful vegetables, beans, and a tangy dressing. It's perfect for serving as a side dish, a dip for tortilla chips, or even as a filling for tacos.
Prep Time 2 minutes
Total Time 2 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients

For the salad:

  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels canned, fresh, or frozen
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper diced
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 jalapeño pepper seeded and diced

For the dressing:

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed black beans, black-eyed peas, corn kernels, diced cherry tomatoes, diced red and green bell peppers, finely chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, and the optional diced jalapeño pepper (for those who enjoy some heat). Gently toss the ingredients together to ensure even distribution.
  • In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, fresh lime juice, honey (or agave nectar), ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences, adding more lime juice for tang or more honey for sweetness.
  • Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the Cowboy Caviar to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. For even better results, refrigerate it overnight.
  • Before serving, give the Cowboy Caviar a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing and flavors. Garnish with additional cilantro leaves if desired.

Notes

Serve the Cowboy Caviar as a side dish alongside grilled meats, or as a flavorful dip with tortilla chips. You can also enjoy it as a filling for tacos or alongside grilled chicken or fish.
The No-Cook Summer Recipes Series: Caprese Salad Skewers

The No-Cook Summer Recipes Series: Caprese Salad Skewers

The sun-kissed days of summer are in full swing, bringing with them an abundant harvest of vibrant fruits, fresh vegetables, and a medley of aromatic herbs. As we bask in the warmth of the season, the last thing we want is to spend time over a hot stove or grill.

This series was created with the summer heat in mind, so you can can stay fueled and cool all summer long!

Below are some simple and delicious caprese salad skewers. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make these skewers a popular choice for serving as finger food, appetizers, or even as a light summer snack. They offer a burst of fresh flavors that are sure to please any palate, making them a delightful addition to any summer gathering.

Summery Caprese Salad Skewers

The vibrant red tomatoes, creamy white mozzarella, and vibrant green basil leaves create a beautiful color combination, while providing a flavorful addition to any meal.
Prep Time 12 minutes
Total Time 12 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients

  • 16 cherry tomatoes
  • 16 small fresh mozzarella balls
  • 16 fresh basil leaves
  • Balsamic glaze or reduction as desired
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 16 small skewers or toothpicks

Instructions

  • Wash the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. Drain the mozzarella balls if they are packed in water.
  • Take a skewer or toothpick and start by threading one cherry tomato onto it, followed by one mozzarella ball, and then one basil leaf. Repeat this pattern until you have four ingredients on each skewer, ending with a cherry tomato on top.
  • Lightly season the skewers with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
  • Just before serving, drizzle the Caprese salad skewers with a balsamic glaze or balsamic reduction and a generous drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil.