Do not fear…I am not totally going to the dark side of super healthy. This lady still loves her butter, bacon, sugar and flour. But I have to focus on getting my health back to neutral. The holidays were fabulous! I spent the best New Years in a long time on a Celebrity Cruise through the Carribean but while I was there I did tons of activities with the kids. Swimming, snorkeling, hiking, bike riding, etc. But each night I was sore and more tired than I felt I should be so….I decided to use this as my “check it before you wreck it” moment. So, thanks to a relaxing cruise I was able to get my life in neutral and really think about some goals for 2014. I am going to strive to take better care of me. No more putting off workouts, taking more time to create a healthier meals for me and my family, plus just taking care of my body.
So with that said, today it is all about making a fun salad without sacrificing flavor, crunch or deliciousness. Salads do not have to be boring. Add some grains, nuts, fresh fruits or crunchy veggies. Lighten up your dressings by adding honey or agave in lieu of sugars. Simple changes that will make a huge difference over the year.
Here is a gem of a salad I had while on board the ship in the Spa Dining section of the ship. It was unbelievably delicious! So, I just had to have them tell me how they did it!
Fresh Greens and Kale Chopped Salad w/ Sugar Free Poppyseed Dressing
1 package cole slaw mix
2 cups baby kale greens
2 cups butter lettuce greens, torn into pieces
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup roasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
In a large salad bowl mix together the greens and slaw mix. Sprinkle with cranberries and roasted pepitas. Drizzle with dressing.
Sugar Free Poppyseed Dressing
1/2 cup lite mayonnaise
1 tablespoon agave nectar
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
salt and pepper
1 teaspoon poppy seeds
2 tablespoon onion, minced fine
In a small bowl whisk together the mayonnaise, agave nectar, white wine vinegar, salt and pepper, and poppy seeds. Stir in the minced onion. Drizzle over salad.
Here is a soup that is hearty but guilt free! I promise even the biggest of boys will love this soup. It is perfect to pack in a mason jar to take to work the next day too!