One Sunday morning in October, I went to visit a friend who loves anything “pumpkin spice” so I brought some homemade pumpkin spice muffins and pumpkin chocolate chip cookies. There were three of us enjoying a really nice visit and a few laughs. I mentioned it was my first time making the muffins (since then, I’ve improved the recipe.) My friend took one bite, looked at me in complete surprise and said it was delicious. She then admitted she was hesitant to try one because she thought it would “taste healthy”. She tried it anyway as a polite gesture and was glad she did. I laughed because it wasn’t the first time I’ve heard that. In many ways we’ve been conditioned to think healthy means sacrificing taste and pleasure-that healthy is no fun! I respectfully disagree. “Healthy” can be delicious and something to look forward to!
This visit with friends inspired my holiday gift to you- a few recipes and a challenge! (More on that later). You’ll find these recipes range from something that will help you stay fueled through the season’s hustle & bustle, to a quick and easy main course, something sweet and a mocktail/cocktail (the choice is yours). In most cases I have done some tweaking of a basic recipe to make it my own, either to get a good balance going or to simplify it. As far as I’m concerned, simple is the key, especially this time of year.
Tuscan Shrimp with White Beans and Tomatoes over Arugula
This delicious meal is easy, makes a great presentation and is big on flavor! My niece once served it minus the shrimp as a warm salad choice at a buffet dinner and I was an immediate fan. The addition of the shrimp makes it a complete meal.
Sauté 2 cloves of crushed garlic in a medium skillet with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add in a 15 oz can of no salt added diced tomatoes, 1 tsp of sage, 1 tsp of thyme , 3 tablespoons of white wine and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Stir in a well rinsed can of organic low sodium navy beans with 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil. Simmer 3-4 more minutes. Add in raw shrimp and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes. Serve over a bed of arugula. (Can top with shaved Parmesan cheese.)
Dark Chocolate Pomegranate Bites
Simple and festive!. Pomegranate seeds are packed with antioxidants but don’t let that fool you, they are delicious! I like to seed a pomegranate myself but seeds are sold separately for a time saving option. These measurements are not exact (I take after my mom in that regard) but have no fear, the recipe is forgiving so adjust accordingly. Leftover pomegranate seeds make a good snack , oatmeal topping or yogurt add-in.
2 cups pomegranate seeds
8 oz dark chocolate chips
Mini cupcake papers (parchment type if possible)
Line a muffin tin with cupcake papers and fill ⅓ with pomegranate seeds. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave at 30 second intervals, stirring in between. Pour chocolate into cupcake papers with a tablespoon over the seeds. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. After removing from the fridge, serve immediately. I found they keep well in the fridge for up to a week if in an airtight container-can also be frozen.
Cranberry Margarita Spritzer
A version of this festive drink was the “Bride’s Signature Cocktail” at my daughter’s wedding.
1.5 oz Silver Tequila (can substitute with vodka or leave out the alcohol all together)
A quick pour of Cranberry Juice
Cranberry-Lime flavored seltzer
Squeeze of fresh lime juice
Muddled mint leaves
Pour over ice in a tall glass
Garnish with more mint leaves and fresh cranberries-enjoy!
Chocolate Mint Protein Shake
I’ll be honest, I left this recipe for last for a good reason- I didn’t think it would hold your interest if I listed it first. But, when we’re out shopping all day or running around checking off “to do” list items, we might forget a very important thing to do-eat! Having something portable and nutritious on hand is important. It serves the body well and helps to keep blood sugar balanced. This tasty shake can be enjoyed hot or cold and is a perfect “grab & go” option. Use a personal size blender and mix the following ingredients:
1 cup non dairy milk (I use almond milk)
1 serving of your favorite chocolate protein powder
¼-½ tsp peppermint extract
½ of a banana (optional)
1 tablespoon of almond or peanut butter
3 ice cubes
Blend and pour into a “to go” bottle. If going with the hot option, make sure it’s a thermal bottle and that the shake is safely heated in the microwave after blending.
Wishing you and yours a very happy and healthy holiday!
