SUPERFOOD MICROALGAE WAFFLES
There is an abundance of superfoods in this recipe and also included is my nourishing microalgae supplement from ZivoLife. Delicious, nutrient-dense foods satiate and provide our microbes with what they need to thrive. Why buckwheat? Buckwheat is not a grain but is considered a fruit seed and part of the rhubarb family. This high-performance grain has many health-boosting nutrients and phytochemicals. Phytochemicals are compounds produced by plants that protect cells from damage that could lead to cancer. In addition, this seed is the richest source of rutin, an antioxidant touted to cut your risk of cardiovascular disease, blood clots, inflammation, and blood pressure. Buckwheat is also a natural source of D-chiro-inositol. Inositol assists in the body’s crucial function of cellular growth. It is a type of sugar that aids in the body producing insulin.
SPAGHETTI SQUASH AND A PALMFUL OF NOODLES DELIZIOSO
Embrace the many benefits this dish offers. Rich in nutrients from hearts of palm noodles, white beans, your favorite greens, and fresh herbs. The hearts of palm noodles are all the craze lately, but they are a creative and enjoyable alternative to pasta with several sources of essential vitamins and minerals. The benefits go beyond antioxidants, balanced macros, and optimal digestion. More plant-based meals satiate, support heart health, and reduce overall inflammation in the body. This simple meal can be customized with greens of your choosing and additions from your pantry that will leave food waste to a minimum.
SAVORY CHICKPEA WAFFLES
Chickpeas or garbanzo beans are a wonderful source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, so incorporating chickpea flour into this latest creation seemed logical to add nutritional value to this dish. The addition of more fresh vegetables paired beautifully but I’m guessing a sweet version is doable and on the horizon for this chef soon! So many different profile flavors to consider for these waffles with light, unique, and crispy textures. It’s important to let the batter sit for at least an hour. I’ve made this recipe up to 9 hours ahead of time and let sit at room temperature so if you’re a planner like me or want to prep for the night before or breakfast for dinner option, go for it!
SALTED CARAMEL PUMPKIN SMOOTHIE
If immune health is a top priority, the benefits of the pumpkin in this smoothie should make this a staple in your routine. One-half cup of canned pumpkin offers about 3.5 grams of healthful fiber in addition to plenty of beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, iron, and folate. Riced cauliflower is a secret cruciferous vegetable addition that is naturally high in fiber and B vitamins. Cauliflower is considered a superfood because it’s nutrient-rich and has a high antioxidant content. When our immune system is properly supported, our cells are better equipped to ward off germs and speed up healing when invaders are present. Make this smoothie as a drink or use less ice to create a thicker base for a bowl topped with fresh fruit and granola. I do suggest trying this with a tablespoon of almond butter or subbing half the amount of non-dairy milk for canned coconut milk. Both are delicious additions that make a creamier smoothie.
SALTED CHOCOLATE CARAMEL SMOOTHIE W/ A TWIST
Let’s bring cauliflower back in Vogue! Let’s appreciate this low-carb, cruciferous vegetable that is rich in nutrients and fiber. The perfect way to sneak this superfood back into your rotation. In addition, polyphenols, antioxidants, and nutrients feed your microbes and support a robust immune system!
SALAD DRESSING IN A SNAP
This dressing was inspired by two clients picking a simple dressing with no fat off the internet. We made it healthier w/o soy and enhanced the flavors with fresh herbs. There is no oil in this dressing so during the RESET phase it helps keep excess fat low as you heal. Some clients complain that vinegar bothers them so if you feel discomfort, save this till after the detox phaseAfter the RESET phase and into Maintenance, this should be a staple for so many reasons. It’s void of preservatives, artificial flavors, and added sugar alcohols.Recently I added a touch of good-quality olive oil and served this over potato salad, rice crackers with tomato slices, and a cold chickpea pasta salad. Thanks again, Karen and Laura.
ROASTED SWEET POTATO FRIED RICE
This simple go-to meal is a huge time-saver with minimal prep involved when you use riced sweet potatoes from the freezer section. After Reset, adding in frozen riced cauliflower or broccoli is highly encouraged to reap the benefits of these sulfur-rich vegetables. I have included a small amount of rice at times, along with roasted potatoes, as all the different textures and tastes are delicious and full of fiber-rich and gut-friendly nutrients.
ROASTED VEGETABLES AND MUSHROOM STEW
This soup was the result of my cleaning out the fridge one day. I love mushrooms, especially when sautéed and finished with sherry or cooking wine. This soup is built on the deep flavors of caramelizing the mushrooms with sherry/wine on the stovetop and roasting the vegetables in the oven.Whole-grain buckwheat is a gluten-free superfood option that is like barley in texture. The benefits of buckwheat shine, as it is a great source of protein, fiber, zinc, magnesium, and folate. In combination with the additional ingredients below, it makes for a hearty, nutritiously rich, and deeply satisfying stew worthy of a cold night in front of a fire.
QUINOA VEGETABLE SUSHI WITH SPICY CHICKPEA TAHINI SAUCE
My husband loves to make sushi at home and would live on sushi rice if he could, but I thought of incorporating quinoa to increase the nutritional content of the meal. What you put into the sushi is up to you. I have used sweet potato, purple sweet potato, steamed asparagus, and cooked beets. This is a great way to be creative and use cooked or raw vegetables. I am a big fan of tahini as it provides so many beneficial functions for our hormones. The spicy combination of chickpeas and the kick of spice is heavenly. We have been putting the extra sauce on everything.
PUMPKIN BUCKWHEAT CEREAL MUFFINS
Buckwheat cereal is an excellent alternative for those who are sensitive to oatmeal. Cream of buckwheat cereal is small grain-like typical to cream of wheat. You can use buckwheat cereal (Bob Mill’s – the grains are a little thicker), but you may need a little more liquid if the batter gets too thick. Buckwheat is a highly nutritious, easily digested superfood. It is an excellent source of protein, containing eight of nine essential amino acids and fiber. In addition, minerals such as manganese, magnesium, copper, and zinc help support positive immune system responses.While making these muffins, I encountered the dilemma of not having dates. No problem! I subbed in some dried blueberries and goji berries. On another occasion, I had only half a can of pumpkin, so I added a mashed banana to the mix. Something like applesauce would work also. A lack of ingredients shouldn’t throw a wrench in your day (See Tips in Planning Your Meals).