Recipe Help?

Recipe Help

Getting tired of the same old, same old, or just ready for some new ideas?

Eating healthy and clean should NOT feel like a chore. It is fun and you can eat DELICIOUS foods.

Yes, you can browse the internet and find some great recipes, but that takes time!! How about an awesome cookbook that will have 101 clean recipes that will be your new go to's? Autumn Calabrese, the celebrity trainer for the 21 Day Fix and 21 Day Fix Extreme has come out with her amazing new cookbook Fixate!

It takes her simple color-coded container system for measuring perfect portions and applies it to 101 of her favorite family recipes to give you Fixate, a delicious approach to healthy weight loss. So you're not just eating tasty, healthy foods-you're eating just the right amount. Each Fixate recipe lists color-coded container equivalents and nutrition facts, so you can use Autumn's system for measuring portions and make sure your nutrition is on track.  

Um hello -- this is what I have been waiting for.  The poor hubs has been stuck with my same 5 -6 favorite recipes of mine and while I am a creature of habit, it might be nice to have some new deliciousness in our bellies! 

Are you paleo? gluten-free? vegan? or vegetarian? 

No problemo!! The cook book will include recipes that will work for you! 

AND on top of it all you will get Autumn's personal tips for preparing meals quickly upgrading leftovers, and stocking your kitchen with absolute must-haves. Everything to help you get started in the kitchen.  

Are you as excited as I am about this yet?!?! I cannot wait to get my HANDS on this baby! 

If you are already a challenger or customer of mine -- you can get this cookbook on July 14th!! 
-->I KNOW I will be on top of it grabbing my book!

It will release for the general public on August 6th! :) 

Cant wait? Need a little sneak peak. Go HERE and get a few recipes to start!

BETTER YET: want it for FREE? I am going to be giving away 2 copies of this glorious cookbook to the those people who are ready to take charge of their health and fitness to join me on a health and fitness journey! I will be doing a drawing for all who purchase a challenge pack from me in July.  If you are interested, fill out the application below! 

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Summer Holiday Survival Guide

Summer Survival Guide

How to enjoy your holiday weekend while staying on track

A big holiday weekend is coming up!! I hope you are ready to enjoy it! 

While I plan on indulging a little - I still have goals that I am after and big things to accomplish so I am not going to throw in the towel. I have some things I plan on doing to keep me on track and want to share with you! 

1) Have a plan!

What will you be doing? Are you going to be traveling, in hotels, camping, being with family and friends?
Make sure you schedule in your workout and treat it like a meeting with your boss that you cannot miss.  

If you know you will be away from the kitchen or your store (we all have our faves) pack some of your go-to foods and snacks to have with you! 

2) WATER! 

 Water is the way to go if you can. However, sometimes we all need a little drink.  Try to stay away from those fruity, frozen, high calorie drinks.  

Stick to something like a vodka soda water with a splash of lemon or lime AND some water to go with.  It's just a lower calorie option but still calories -- so do this in moderation! 

3) The 80 - 20 rule

Its all about moderation.  No one is perfect, and that's GOOD! You can still enjoy grandma's cookies that you have been thinking about all week, but pass up the treats during the week if you know you'll be hanging with gram on the weekend! Just decide when you are going to splurge and go for just that treat! Its a balancing act.

4) Portion Sizes

Do you know what the proper portions look like? I know my 21 day fixers do -- thanks for the containers Autumn!
But if you don't use this graphic to help you --> 

And grab the smaller plate if available.  It is going to help you manage those portion sizes and still enjoy in  moderation.  

5) Go Prepared!

Don't just assume that there will be fruits and veggies or clean/healthy snacks to munch on.  You do not want to end up being HANGRY and caving in and making bad choices.  *trust me -- I know this one -- as a picker eater I have learned this the hard way! 

Now I make sure to fuel up with some shakeology ahead and offer to bring a side dish to share that I can enjoy. 

Don't get me wrong, I'll likely still have a snackie in my purse justttt in case too! (something like apples or peanuts)

This way you can eat at the party and get to stay on track! 

Here is a list with clickable links to some yummy 4th of July inspired treats: 

Fruit Wands

Star Spangled Fruit Salad

Red White and Blueberry Yogurt Popsicles

Independence Day Frozen Fruit Pops

Red White and Blue Cheese and Fruit Tray

You can and WILL make it through the weekend.  Its a learning process and a journey so just take it one step at a time.  Small steps in the right direction still means progress.  :) 

Starting July 6th is a 21 Day Fix Up Your Summer Challenge group! If you want more details contact me by filling out the application below! 

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Summer Vacation Tips

Summer Vacation Tips

First before we get into the tips -- let me apologize for being a bit absent as of late.  Along with being a beachbody coach I am a full time teacher.  It is closing in on the end of the school year (5 more days with students to go) and things get a LITTLE crazy at the end of the school year.  So much to do and so little time to do it.  

With that being said -- I am more than ever -- aware that summer is right around the corner.  
I have a family beach trip that I am BEYOND excited and looking forward to this summer.....which got me thinking....
Man how am I going to keep on track with my health and fitness routine while I am at the beach house with my family?! 

I came up with some ideas for myself and thought -- hmm I bet other people are going to be going on summer vacations -- I MUST share my ideas.  
Please feel free to implement these ideas and make them work for you.  Do some, do all, do none -- but if they help in any way, I am happy!! 

Here are some tips that I have come up with: 

• Working out
• Take your DVDs with you! 
• Cant do that? Try Beachbody On Demand!!
• It great on the go, as long as you have WiFi you can stream those workouts! 
• Take a long walk, run, or bike ride around the area -- I love seeing whats around me
• Swim laps in the the pool or "laps" in the ocean! You can still be in the water enjoying your vacation, but also getting a great workout in! 
• Find a local class or studio to go to near your vacation spot -- I am sure there is one somewhere! 
  
• Two scenarios here:
• Family/friends who are really into fitness and supportive of your journey
• Get them involved!! 
• Take this time to have a  member join you on your workout! Share your workout routine with a new loved one or friend. 
• Have them share their workout with you! Try something new with someone who will make it fun.  
• Family/friends not as supportive 
• Don't let them get you down!  You are a work and progress and doing great.  No need to stop for them! 
• Get up early and crush your workout.  If you have to do it while everyone is sleeping to avoid the conflict -- do it.  Your body will thank you for it in so many ways.  
• Do your workout after they go to bed.  
• Find ways to be active during the day.  Go for that walk.  Take the stairs.  Do some lunges, squats, crunches, etc. in your room when no one else is around.  Youtube or google some great short routines to squeeze in.  Any workout is better than no workout at all! 
• If you health and fitness is a priority to you then find time where you can still fit something in. 

• Eating
• Be sure to take/buy your favorite healthy foods and snacks to have with you for your trip! 
• I know not everyone is going to be trying to stay on track with their vacation so try to stick to your healthy foods as much as you can
• I am not saying you can't indulge here and there (its vacation after all) -- but its all about moderation -- 80/20 rule ladies and gents! 
• Still try to fit in your 5 - 6 meals (3 main meals with 2-3 small snacks) each day.  I know this one will be tricky for me -- but we need to fuel our bodies right.  Just do your best!! 
• Continue to watch your portion sizes
• Take the smaller plate if available
• Keep practicing those great portion habits you have learned along your journey
• Visit the local food markets
• Grab some great, fresh, and healthy foods for the week
  
• Eat in -- instead of going out 
• In my family we all take a night and make dinner.  We go out still -- but not EVERY night.  
• This will help you to control what food you are fueling your body with 
• Watch what you drink
• Try to stick to water when you can -- add some flavors into it if needed
• Am I saying not to indulge at all? No - its vacation, have some fun! but don't go nuts!!
• Make a healthy snack/treat
• You can feel like you are cheating but still getting a treat! 
• Make some frozen banana pops
• Here is a list of 7 fun popsicles to make 
• My favorite idea is the lemonade popsicles! 
• Plan your cheat meal into your week 
• Do you know that you are going to be going to to your favorite summer hot spot? Make it your cheat for the week and try to stay on track for the rest of the week 

• General Habits

• WATER WATER WATER
• It's hot and if you are going to be out in the sun you are going to be sweating so drink up.  Water is so important on a day to day basis but important still if you are going to be outside sweating a lot 
• Sun Screen 
• Take care of your skin and those around you!! I know we all know the drill with sunscreen -- but don't forget it or dismiss it!
• We need to take care of our bodies!  
• Sleep 
• Get your sleep on vacation.  The typical adult needs 7 - 9 hours of sleep.  I know I am for this daily -- but don't always get them. 
• I am going to use vacation to get me on TRACK with this! 

I hope these help you to keep on track with your health and fitness journey.  If you have any great tips or ideas, please feel free to share by putting them in the comments below! I always love learning from others!! 

Happy Summer!! 

Parmesan Pita Crisps

Parmesan Pita Crisps

This is great recipe for a snack or even a get together.  Easy to make for one -- or make more batches and share with friends.  

Ingredients

• Whole-wheat pita
• Cooking spray
• 1/8 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350°
2. Line baking sheet with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray
3. Cut pita in half horizontally
4. Cut each pita half into six wedges 
5. Divide the wedges evenly over baking sheet
6. Lightly coat wedges with cooking spray
7. Sprinkle cheese and pepper evenly over wedges
8. Bake at 350° for 11 minutes or until crisp

Pair it with some delicious homemade hummus or salsa and you are good to go!!

For the 21 Day Fix-ers --> This would count as: 
1 yellow
1/2 blue

Hope you enjoy!! :) Munch on! 

My 21 Day Fix Extreme Journey

My 21 Day Fix Extreme Journey 

Goodness gracious I cannot believe I have been rocking the 21 day fix extreme since March!! {Hmmm...maybe I should rock a new program in May!}
Sometimes I get so into a program and routine I forget to stop and realize how far I have come.  So today I am stopping to share with you all my journey! 

I must admit -- I totally have a girl crush on Autumn Calabrese (she is the trainer who does the 21 Day Fix and 21 Day Fix Extreme) and love doing her programs.  I love the variety that the Fix and Fix Extreme provide.  Its a different workout each day and I love working all those the different muscle groups. 

The 21 Day fix is a program that forever changed the way I looked at clean eating and nutrition and when the 21 Day Fix Extreme came out I was pumped. 

I love how easy clean eating is on this program and the workouts offered -- I have even fallen in love with..... *gasp* PLYO day! (call me crazy--I know!) It seriously kicks my butt every time -- but in a strangely great kind of way.  I am a sweaty hott mess after the workout but I know I am trying to build a body that I am confident in.  I must admit pilates with a resistance band always gives me quite the go around, but I am growing in love! 

Check out one of my meal plans to see what type of things I can eat on the 21 day fix.  You eat 5 - 6 times a day and I always feel full! :) Planning it out ahead of time helps to keep me on track and more likely to stick with it.  

Have I stayed 100% on track with my eating and never missed a day with the 21 day fix extreme-- ABSOLUTELY NOT! 

I am not perfect and I don't try to be.  I am a goofball, a little quirky, and full of energy and enthusiasm.  BUT we all get tired, we all get busy -- and life happens.  


I get stressed, I eat some not so good for my body things.   I indulge in chocolate (my true love -- other than my husband).  Do I let that stop me?--No way jose!

I have had my fair share of sweets and treats on this journey.  I mean when grandma sends you some of your favorite triple chocolate cookies, you don't say no!!  When the girl scout cookies come in and you want some, you eat some! 
Its all about balance and moderation. If you completely deprive yourself of the things you love, you will be miserable.  So let yourself have the things you love -- just not all day every day!   

Have I missed a day here or there (or maybe 2 or 3 in a row)? -- YES! 
But I cannot dwell on the days that I miss.  I just keep pushing onward and try to make each day better than the last.  Missing a day happens -- life gets busy, but I try not to let it happen more than 2 days in a row because its hard to get back into it once I break.  

I use my challenge groups to keep me on track.  I work daily with some amazing coaches and challengers who help to keep me accountable.  I post my goofy post workout selfies along with my challengers.  I love seeing everyone support each other and cheer each other on.  

I may be busy -- I teach full time and spend lots of time and energy on all things for my classroom and my 22 little loves -- but you have to take time for you.   I can handle 30 minutes each day to take care of my body.  30 minutes -- that's not even 4% of your day! It may seem hard to find that time in the beginning, but I can promise you it will be totally worth it.  30 minutes of you time is good for your mind, body, and soul.  :) 

Here is what the 21 Day Fix Extreme did for me: 

I "quote" the before and after because I am not done! I am on a journey to be the best me and I am not stopping anytime soon!

For me -- it is not about being skinny for me, its about being healthy, happy and proud of who I am.  And each day I am getting closer.  

If you are interested in learning more about joining me in a challenge group fill out the application below! :) 

Fill out my online form.

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Water Benefits!

Water Benefits

Drinking water is so important.  When I started my fitness journey I gave up all those terrible pops and sugary drinks and MAN did I see a change!! I gave up my pop habit cold turkey and while it was hard a first I honestly believe it was 100% worth it.  I

My body started to crave water! And it felt gooooood.  

I did not realize how terrible all those other drinks really were.  Why are we putting all of this crap into our bodies?! No need to add in extra calories and extra additives. Water has so many great benefits and you can make it work for you.  Its not just about weight loss -- its so much more.  

Why Should You Drink Water?

• Water removes dangerous toxins from our bodies
• Water cushions our body's joints
• Water helps aid in weight loss/regulation
• Water helps to suppress your appetite
• Water will reduce your cravings
• Water aides in digestion
• Water transports oxygen and nutrients to the cells in our body
• Water helps to regulate body temperature
• Water defends against blood clots
• Water will relieve that "bloating"
• Water helps fight headaches
• Water helps keep our skin clear and healthy
• Warm water stimulates the immune system
• Cold water reduces inflammation
• Water helps energize muscles

So ladies and gents --- Drink up!! Who would not want all of these amazing benefits of water!

How Much Water should You Drink?

If you take your weight and divide it by two, that is the number of ounces you should be drinking! 

Coffee and pop do NOT count in that water intake, and these should be kept to a minimum. Caffeine and artificial sweeteners are toxins and do not do ANYTHING for your body. 

In taking artificial sweeteners only makes you crave it more, so kick the habit and get rid of it altogether!

Tips to Drink More Water

1) Add in some flavor for variety 

Be sure to use something natural and not those store bought flavors.  Try adding in watermelon chunks, mint, orange slices, lemons, berries, and the list could go on.  Find something you think that will make you want to drink the water! 

2) There's an app for that! Use your phone to help you. 

Try Waterlogged for iPhone or Water Your Body (for Android and iPhone)

**Not big on apps? Just set a few alerts on your phone throughout the day to remind yourself to hit the water cooler.

3) Keep the water close by

If you’re stuck at your desk all day or on the road traveling for hours, you’re not going to make it a priority to go get water very often. The fix: Always keep a big tumbler of water on your desk or a water bottle in your bag so you have no excuse. And if you work at a desk, leave the cup in plain sight so you’re constantly reminded. On the go, keep your water bottle next to you every time you hop into the car, or buy a package of bottled water to keep in the car. Whenever you're driving about, your water will be within easy reach from your car's cup holder. Think about other places you can stash some water bottles (under your desk, next to the couch, in your purse, and more).

4) Snazzy water bottle
Splurge on the perfect reusable water bottle. Whether it's your favorite color or a unique design, the more you bond with your bottle, the less likely you'll be to lose it. Slap an inspirational sticker or image onto it, or even write on it with a permanent marker. Now you're ready to drink from it throughout the day—don't forget to refill it as soon as it's empty.

--My Favorite Water Bottle: Contigo 

I need ICE COLD water in order to drink it.  And my contigo can 

keep my water very cold.  Not the plastic ones (I find they sweat) but the metal ones.  It keeps ice in my water bottle all day long through at least 2- 3 refills while I am at work.  

-->Marked water bottle you say?

Mark the bottle at one hour interval
Every hour, you should drink about a glass of water (200 ml)
At the time marked on the bottle, your water should be at that level
(e.g by 2 pm the water should be at the 2 pm level)
Finish one whole water bottle -- Refill it! 
The marking serves as a visual reminder encourage you to drink water and allow you to see your progress

5) Sip up/Straw
Gulping all that water can seem daunting. So get a package of straws to slowly sip it instead. You can even pick up a water bottle with built-in straw.  You’ll drink more water with a straw, and you’ll drink faster. Win-win

6) Transitions

Have a big glass of water at every transitional point of the day: when you first get up, just before leaving the house, when you sit down to work, etc.

7) Fight those cravings 

When you have a junk-food craving, down a glass of water immediately. You feel full quickly and avoid the calories, and it lets time pass till the craving fades.

Not a tip -- but good to know.  Might be a little personal BUT what color is your urine? 

If it's colorless or very light, that's a great indication that you're hydrated. If it's dark in color (close to an amber shade), you know you need more water! 

Have I convinced you to drink more water yet?!?! 

DO IT! I seriously drink water ALL the time now.  

Water, water, water! and maybe a little treat ;) (I cant give it all up) now and then.  

Your body will thank you for it, you only have one body so nourish it and help it keep you living longer, better, and healthier! 

21 Day Fix Approved Pickles

21 Day Fix Approved Pickles

I am a serious dill pickle lover!! Sign me up to munch on them anytimeeeee -- honestly! 

But here is the thing.....there is one heck of a lot of salt in them -- and as much as I LOVE salt, I really don't want to be guzzling it down.  

So when I found this healthy alternative over at geniabeme.com, I was thrilled.  

Sign me up for some clean eating, delicious, make my own PICKLES! :) 

Ingredients: 

• 1 whole cucumber 
• water
• white vinegar
• coriander seeds
• dill
• garlic powder 

*Optionals: black pepper, chili peppers, any spices you want! 

Directions: 

1. Cut cucumber into slices
2. Place them in a small container or ziploc baggie 
3. Pour in/measure equal parts water and white vinegar until most of the cucumbers are covered
4. Add in coriander seeds, dill, and garlic powder (no exact measurements here -- I just eyeballed it) 
5. Place in fridge for a couple of hours and -- ENJOY!! 

*Note: I am a fan of pretty sour pickles and if you do the equal parts they are going to be sour! If you would like more or less sour, just adjust the amount of vinegar up and down to your liking :) 

If you love this idea you could always try it with other veggies :) 

Hope you loved this recipe as much as I did.  Feel free to comment below and let me know your thoughts.  

Pizzadilla

Pizzadilla

Who said you have to give up the food you love when you eat clean?! -- NOT ME!!

I LOVE pizza. If I could manage to eat it everyday, I would so be there! Fortunately I have found a way to work pizza into my healthy lifestyle and embrace it with clean eating.

Best part -- well there are a lot of great things about this but -- its quick, easy, and even kid approved!!

Ingredients:

• Whole Wheat Tortilla
• Pizza toppings of your choice
• Great place to get in some veggies
• 1/3 cup Shredded Cheese
• Pizza Sauce

Directions:

1. Cut up toppings you want.
2. Place 1/2 of the cheese on half of the tortilla shell. Place other toppings on that and then put the rest of the cheese on top, fold tortilla in half.
3. Heat skillet with medium heat.  
4. Cook Tortilla on heat until cheese melts and is browned, make sure you flip it after a couple minutes.
5. Remove from heat, cut with pizza cutter. 
6. Dip slices into the pizza sauce! (We like to warm the pizza sauce in the microwave a bit, but that's optional) 
7. Enjoy!!!

This recipe is my go to on the weekends when I am feeling like I am going to give into some pizza cravings but still want to stay on track.  Even the hubby will ask for it on the weekends!! :) 

Crockpot Chicken Tacos

Crockpot Chicken Tacos

Okay, ready for a great busy day meal?!?! Stay tuned for this! 

I seriously LOVE using my crockpot to cook anythingggg.  If I know I am going to have a busy day, this recipe is my go to.  Crockpot meals are honestly something I love -- just so nice to come home and not have to think about making dinner, right?  This one is a house favorite and so easy.

There are so many options for this yummy recipe that I tried in my first challenge group.  

These are great served as a regular taco on either a soft whole wheat tortilla shell or even on a hard shell taco. They are great made into a quesadilla and it tastes wonderful served over a bed of lettuce! You can have some leftovers for lunch the next day.  Put it on a salad, sandwich, or use it as a dip with some chips!  Whatever way you decide to make it, you won't be disappointed!

Here it goes: 

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. chicken breasts (I use boneless, skinless)
• 1 can of organic black beans
• 1 container of fresh salsa
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1/3 cup water (only use water if chicken is thawed)
• 1/3 brick of cream cheese

Directions: 

1. Put all ingredients except cream cheese in the crockpot 
2. Cook on low for 5 - 6 hours or high for 3- 4 hours 
3. You can use frozen or fresh chicken breasts. But remember, if you are using frozen, omit the water :) It makes it really runny if you use the water with the frozen chicken.
4. *Shred the chicken before serving 
5. 20 minutes before serving stir in the cream cheese until melted
6.  Top with greek yogurt in place of sour cream, cheese, lettuce, or your favorite Mexican toppings
7. ENJOY with tortilla shells or over tortilla chips

*I shred my chicken quickly and easily using two forks --- pulling the chicken apart. 

--> Picture coming soon <-- 
~we gobbled this up so quickly I forgot to snap a picture~

Hope you love this recipe as much as we do at my house! 
Let me know your thoughts! :) 

Shakeology Chocolate

Shakeology Chocolate 

Do you have a sweet tooth?! --- but don't want to ruin all the hard work you have been doing in the kitchen and on your fitness? Then this is for you!

I am OVER THE MOON excited about this.  I love sweets and treats and have a hard time resisting them so finding this recipe is a lifesaver!! 

I have been working to cut sugar (*working* being the key word).  It's hard work but I am trying because it is so addictive and the more I eat the more I crave it! This means less sweets and treats in my meal plans but --- never fear ---- Shakeology chocolate to the rescue! 

I saw another coach mention that she was going to try this and I HAD to give it a whirl too!! 

The recipe is SO simple 

• 1 scoop of Chocolate Shakeology 
• 1 spoon of coconut oil melted

Here's what'cha do: 

1. Stir it together
2. Spread it on a sheet of wax paper
3. Put into the freezer until solid
4. Break or cut into chunks 

.....and enjoy!!

Just had myself a chocolate bar with zero guilt. :)  nom nom!! 

21 Day Fix/Fix Extreme Portions: 

1 spoon of coconut oil is a good fat 

1 shakeology serving is 1 red

*So I counted it as a red and as a spoon. 

You could add all sorts of deliciousness to this recipe if you wanted.  Think about adding in some peanut butter, PB2, or other nuts to give it some variety! 

I am so excited to stay on track and still have chocolate!

-->get out there and try it, you will not be disappointed. 

Then let me know your thoughts in the comments below! 

If you want to try it and don't have shakeology contact me for the details on how to score you own!!

Seasoning Mixes

Seasoning Mixes

Are you looking for something to add a little little extra flavor to your dishes? Need a little change up?  I LOVE these mixes.  

--> You can use them as a rub for roasting or grilling chicken, meat or fish, or use them to spice up ground chicken, turkey, or beef. You can also use these mixes to flavor rice, lentils, beans, quinoa, and vegetables!

**These mixes are all-you-can-eat for the 21 Day fix! --- SCORE! 

All-Purpose Seasoning

4 tsp. onion powder
2 tsp. garlic powder
2 tsp. mustard powder
1/4 tsp. dried thyme
1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
1 tsp. sea salt

Smoky Southwestern Seasoning

1 Tbsp. chili powder
2 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. coriander
1/2 tsp. onion powder
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp. sea salt

--> This one is my favorite <--

**I also add: 

1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes

1/2 tsp. ground cayenne

I put this on chicken like its my job!!! Its my favorite way to cook chicken and then take it in my lunch with me for the next day.  I love it oven baked or grilled, and now that the weather is starting to get warm grilled will be on the menu more often.  I love the flavor or this spice and seriously panic when I  get low.  Every time I make it, I make it in a double batch because I am that obsessed and go through one batch wayyyy to fast!! 

Mediterranean Seasoning

4 Tbsp. dried parsley, crushed
4 tsp. dried onion flakes
2 tsp. dried basil, crushed
1 tsp. ground oregano
1 tsp. ground thyme
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. sea salt
1/4 tsp. ground black pepper 

Mix these babies up and enjoy! Let me know your thoughts and your favorite. 


All recipes on this page are from the 21 Day Fix Eating Plan Book by Beachbody.

Flourless Brownie Muffins

Flourless Brownie Muffins

I LOVE this recipe.  It was one of the first recipes I branched out to when I decided to embrace clean eating.  I was worried I would not be able to still enjoy my sweets and treats---BOY was I wrong.  Thank goodness for Beachbody having some delicious recipes for me to try! 

I looked at the ingredients and must admit, when I saw garbanzo beans I was thinking---Oh goodness, how will this taste delicious at all?!?  But once I made them I wanted to gobble them all down.  I had to control all my urges and tell myself that even though they are very healthy --- it is still all things in moderation and I shouldn't gobble up the whole pan myself without sharing with my hubs! 

*Bonus* It's 21 day fix (my favorite program) approved!

Check it out, try it, and let me know yours thoughts!! 

Prep Time: 20 min.
Cooking Time: 12 min.
Yield:12 servings, 1 cupcake each

Ingredients:

• 1 (15 oz.) can chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained, rinsed
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup pure maple syrup
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp. baking soda
• 3 Tbsp. coconut oil, melted
• 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips

Preparation:

1. Preheat oven to 350° F.
2. Prepare 12 muffin cups by lining with muffin papers or coating with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.
3. Place chickpeas, eggs, maple syrup, cocoa powder, baking soda, coconut oil, and extract in blender or food processor; cover. Blend until smooth.
4. Divide batter among 12 prepared muffin cups.
5. Top each muffin with about four chocolate chips; push into batter.
6. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
7. Cool completely and enjoy!

21 Day Fix Containers: 

1 Yellow

1/2 Blue/Orange

21 Day Fix Extreme Recipe: Chicken Fajitas

21 Day Fix Extreme Recipe: Chicken Fajitas 

I have been rocking Autumn Calabrese's new program, the 21 Day Fix Extreme, for few weeks now!  It has been great.  Now.....am I smiling my way through each and every workout?! --- NO.  Those workouts are tough and they kick my butt.  I am sweaty, sore, and gross by the end --- but I LOVE it. The good news is anytime your body is sore from a workout it means that it's challenging your body in a whole new way. 

One of the great things that comes with each fitness program is a nutrition guide.  This guide was full of some great recipes that I was ready to try!! Sometimes you just need a new one to throw into the rotation.  

If you are looking for a delicious new recipe --> look no further! Try this one out. I doubt you will be disappointed.   You can even save some that will make great leftovers too!

If you have non clean eaters in your family you can still do the chicken fajitas but just give everyone else shells to use instead of lettuce! 

This recipe makes 4 servings and 2 fajitas each 

Ingredients: 

• 1 tsp chili powder 
• 1/2 tsp sea salt 
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin 
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder 
• 1/2 tsp olive oil, divided
• 4 (5-6 oz) raw chicken breast, boneless, skinless, cut into 1/2 in strips 
• 1 medium red or green red bell pepper, cut into thin strips 
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced 
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice 
• 8 large romaine (or butter) lettuce leaves 
• 1/2 medium avocado, thinly sliced 
• 1 cup fresh salsa 
• lime wedge for garnish optional 

Directions: 

1. Combine chili powder, salt, cumin, garlic powder, and 1 tsp oil in large resealable plastic bag. 
2. Add chicken, bell pepper, and onion; mix gently to coat. Refrigerate for 15 minutes.
3. Heat remaining 1 tsp. oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. 
4. Empty contents of bag into skilled; cook stirring frequently, for 5 to 6 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through. Remove from heat. Add lime juice.
5. Evenly top lettuce leaves with chicken mixture, avocado and salsa. 
6. Garnish with lime wedges if desired. 

Notes: 21 Day Fix Extreme Containers --> 2 Green, 1/2 purple, 1 red, 1/2 blue 

You gotta try this! Let me know your thoughts!!