I first tasted falafel at a NYC institution during my college days, likely after a few too many happy hour specials. I remember being transfixed by the crunchy warm orbs bursting with flavor and feeling curious about the pungent and mysterious creamy white sauce that coated the balls - and no that wasn't the discounted liquid ferments talking. Years later, and few happy hours less, I learned the deep, dark, delicious secret of most falafel balls - their immersion into a deep fryer. For a virtuous spin on traditionally fried falafel, I baked the balls and loaded them with flavorful herbs and aromatic spices. That mystery white sauce? It got swapped too for a creamy mint-laced tahini. With a more discerning approach to happy hours and street "meat", these baked falafel are the perfect remedy for curing a gnawing hunger or a painful hangover.
Read moremy favorite way to eat pancakes
Who doesn't love Sunday morning pancakes? More often than not, they leave you unsatisfied, sleepy, and searching for your next hunger fix a mere hour or so after consumption. Refined carbohydrates from white flour and sugary pancake mix typically lack fiber and protein that keep you full and sustain your energy. Don't you worry; we've got your next weekend brekky covered. Try out these gluten-free, protein packed pancakes which will leave you feeling satiated and energized and primed for all of your weekend revelry.
Read moreWho Knew Caesar Was a Vegan?
Caesar salad is notoriously known for its cheesy, garlicky, and creamy dressing that blankets leafy, watery greens. What it is not known for is its nutritional attributes. Traditional caesar salad dressing contains anchovies, raw egg yolk, and parm - tasty, but not necessarily virtuous. For a vegan and healthified version, I made a few swaps and modifications to add nutrient density to a classic dish without sacrificing palatability and mass appeal.
Read moremy favorite way to fuel after a workout
Adequately fueling your body post-workout is essential to replenish used glycogen (stored carbohydrates used for energy) and to restore strained muscles. Carbohydrates, which get absorbed by the muscles first, and protein, which prevents muscle breakdown, are the ideal post-workout nutrient combo. Opting for real, clean sources of protein and carbohydrates is also important to keep in mind as opposed to immediately jumping to processed protein powders or 20-ingredient energy bars.
Read moresay hello to my little friend
The are many reasons why sweet potatoes are rock star tubers. They are versatile, vibrant in color, and pack a serious nutritional punch. Their flexibility is highlighted in this dish, serving as an edible bowl for spicy and flavorful beans. These stuffed spuds could be a great dish at a causal dinner party with a few options of fillings and garnishes to suit your guests taste preferences. Whole roasted sweet potatoes are also a great item to have on hand. They can serve as a blank canvas and are amendable to a multitude of toppings and fillers - especially useful on "clean out the fridge" kind of days.
Read moreNot Your Mama's J-Pen
J-Pen, as I affectionately like to call this soup, or Jewish Penicillin, is the type of recipe that has becomes habitual from years and years of exposure. Somehow, the steps and process permeate my being and, every time an inkling of a cold emerges, J-Pen is the first line of defense. In my family, each generation puts their unique imprint on the soup, but the root of the matter is always the same. For my version, I add extra immune boosters - ginger and turmeric - to add that nutrient oomph. I also take the extra step of browning the chicken, a simple albeit slightly timely step that yields a multitude of value in flavor. Browning the chicken not only locks in the juices and creates a caramelized crust on the meat, but also the browned bits in the pan add a fantastic foundation to the soup, lending depth and flavor. The finishing touch of lime, which is one of my favorite tricks learned from my Mexican co-workers during my restaurant days, provides a refreshing burst of acidity as well as a dose of Vitamin C. Although this soup is not your mother's J-Pen, it for sure will become a staple in your home on frosty nights or "under the weather" days.
Read moreRadish to the Rescue: Potent Party Starter
The husband and I have a ritual where we do not dine out on Valentine's Day. Maybe it is the countless years of working in the service industry, pockmarked with overpriced prix fixes and catering to cranky couples who feel like they MUST dine out on the 14th, that just makes me want to stay in. Instead, we typically grab a great bottle of sparkling and provision a few special ingredients to elevate our evening meal.
Read moremy favorite way to eat spaghetti
Nothing beats incredibly fresh homemade pasta from an amazing restaurant but, since we can't indulge in fresh pasta everyday of the week, my favorite way to eat spaghetti is from a squash! Yup, that yellow oval shaped squash, when sliced in half, roasted, and scraped, produces spaghetti-like strands of significant nutrient density. This yellow-hued veg is rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, is gluten-free, and is the perfect alternative to pasta. Swap out your basic noodles for spaghetti squash in any of your favorite recipes.
Read moreHow to Sustain Your Motivation + a Very Cheery Smoothie
It’s February! The second month of the new year. How are you faring with your "resolutions" and dedicated decisions to make this year healthier and happier? It is easy to lose momentum and steam as January passes and the days seem to get colder and snowier. Birthdays and celebrations and any excuse to indulge start to reappear, and rich and decadent comfort food seems like the only way to keep warm. It is essential to keep in mind that the small positive shifts that you make over time have major long-term ramifications. Consider every meal a Monday morning - an opportunity to start fresh and get back on the healthy eating track. Focus on what you have already changed and continue to set realistic goals for yourself.
Read moreTrade Up Your Wing Dings for This Healthier Alternative
Football is usually synonymous with wings. Fried greasy nibbles, indigestion, and hangovers also typically go hand in hand with game day. For a healthy alternative to chicken wings, consider these spicy buffalo chicken meatballs that pack all of the elements of a basket of wings into compact balls-minus the butter, grease, and oil. Serve these spicy little balls with a cooling herb dip to elevate your game day viewing pleasure.
Read more