Sewing and Soymilk

May is Lyme Awareness Month

2010-05-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

This month is Lyme Awareness Month. As someone who has suffered from Lyme for the last nine years, trust me when I say... wear your chemicals! I know, I talk constantly about a natural, non- toxic lifestyle but when it comes to Lyme Disease permethrin and Deet (over 40% concentration) are your best friends. You can get Lyme all year round but now is when the new nymphs are hatching, so their is a larger prevalence.

New Food Post

2010-05-19T11:35:00.000-07:00

Cooper is waiting (not so) patiently for another food post... I promise there will be one soon! So if you like raw yogurt and cheesecake keep checking back!

Vegan Speedy Dessert

2010-05-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

So, the other day I was seriously craving dessert but I didn't have the energy to make anything from scratch or go to the store.

Well, did you know that a lot of cake mixes and frostings already packaged are vegan? (Just use egg replacer instead of eggs when making it)

So, I made spice cupcakes and cream cheese frosting in a flash and ate way too many.

The frosting tasted nothing like cream cheese and of course I worried about all the ingredients in the mix that I couldn't pronounce, but I'd probably do it again if I was in another dessert jam...

Eating Healthy on a Budget

2010-05-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

This post mostly pertains to living in San Diego, but the stores may be in your area too. This post helps me to figure out where to get my healthy groceries while saving the most money, but it isn't as gas- efficient as shopping all in one place, so keep that in mind when figuring out your own shopping needs.

Trader Joe's

no sales, but always low prices.

best price on:

nut butters

protein bars (when other places aren't having sales)

cereal

oatmeal

frozen vegetables and fruit

coffee

tea

salad dressing

agave

hummus

general needs vitamins

flowers

eggs

milk

butter

yogurt

Henry's

has weekly sale items and stocks more variety of items than Trader Joe's included health food items as well as supplements and vitamins.

best price on:

bulk bin items such as nuts, grains, pasta, snacks, granola, flour, etc...

organic produce

Whole Foods

Has more variety than Henry's or Trader Joe's but generally more expensive. Has coupons available in weekly flyer that can make items the least expensive of the three. Amazing amount/ quality of free samples.

Is perfect for finding those sought after health- food items and emerging trends in the health industry including cookbooks, magazines, and personal products

Has an excellent variety of quality organic produce

best price on:

couponed items

Red, White and Blue Oats

2010-05-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

So the other day I was craving oatmeal but I wanted to add a little protein to it so I thought to throw in some of my new red quinoa from the store. Made with coconut milk and topped with fresh blueberries it tasted incredibly decadent even though it was healthy. Steel cut oats and quinoa take a little longer to cook than regular rolled oats. If you want to cut down on the cooking time listed in the recipe, soak them in the milk overnight and then you only have to heat them through in the morning.

In a couple of weeks it's memorial day so this would be a patriotic and tasty breakfast to make for your family. I'm hoping, though, that the weather will have finally turned around here and the last thing on our minds is a hot breakfast!

Click here for the recipe...

An oldie but goodie... Hummus!

2010-04-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

I made hummus for the first time! I know people have been making their own hummus for forever, but it was a new treat for me. I started with dried chickpeas instead of canned and kind of guessed at the other ingredients so I have no idea if it's actually authentic. It tasted like hummus to me, and it tasted amazing! This makes a thicker hummus, not quite as thin as the kind you buy in the tub. That was on purpose, because I get tired of making veggie sandwiches where the hummus falls out of the bread! If you want to make yours more of the traditional consistency then just add a little extra lemon juice. I highly recommend using the dried chickpeas as well, it made for a great flavor and only takes a little thinking ahead and some water!

Click here for the recipe...

Cabbage, Spring onion and Potato Cakes

2010-04-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

This recipe was inspired by the mashed potatoes my fiancee, Ian and I had in Ireland over the summer. On a farm in Southern Ireland we had Colcannon- mashed potatoes filled with cabbage that was cooked in butter. In Northern Ireland we had Champ- mashed potatoes filled with chopped, cooked spring onions. Both were delicious and we ate more than our fill of them. So I put the two recipes together and made potato cakes to make them slightly more unique. They tasted great, but didn't make great leftovers micro-waved so make sure you finish them up or reheat them in the oven for the best turnout.

Click here for the recipe...

Chickpeas and Kale

2010-04-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

When I saw this recipe on Smitten Kitchen, I knew I had to try it, and it was delicious! The only substitution I made was kale for spinach since I like the way it holds more of its shape and texture under heat. My whole family enjoyed this and I think yours will too! It's not too spicy or ethnic tasting for those who prefer more simple dishes.

Click here for the recipe on SmittenKitchen...

Whole Wheat Flax Bread

2010-04-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

I've always been intimidated by making my own bread, until I tried to make my own this last weekend. It's really easy! Of course, I used a mixer with a dough hook. Having always kneaded my own pizza dough in the past I can say that that mixer saves you a TON of energy making bread. This recipe is pretty healthy for you, the wheat gluten adds extra protein and the flax adds extra b vitamins and omega-3's. And it tastes a lot better than store bought packages with ingredients you can't even pronounce, right?

Click here for the recipe...

Jamie Oliver at TED awards

2010-04-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

Do many of you watch Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution on TV? Well, I love the show and the message he is promoting. Click on the video below to hear his inspiring speech at the TED awards. Enjoy!

2010-04-19T07:27:00.001-07:00

So, lately I've been struggling to come up with inspiration for what to cook for dinner. I've mostly been eating kale chips and pasta and veggies out of boredom.

So, when I saw that Bianca from VeganCrunk was having a comfort food cookbook giveaway I had to enter...

Click here for your own chance to enter for The American Vegan Kitchen cookbook

The return of cold weather

2010-04-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

Well, after some really nice weather, it's back to being cold and rainy here in Connecticut. I had to look at this picture to remind myself at least we're past the snowy months...

Coconut Ginger Blondies

2010-04-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

I had to wait to post this recipe until I knew that the goodies had safely arrived at Ian's house. They were a surprise treat I mailed him recently.

I followed pretty standard blondies recipes but added a twist- a taste of the tropics! Instead of chocolate or nuts I added shredded, unsweetened coconut and candied ginger. I didn't veganize this recipe since Ian doesn't follow (and doesn't want to!) my dietary restrictions, so if you're looking for a dessert for someone with butter and eggs, look no further.

These are pretty quick to make and after thirty minutes in the oven, you're good to go!

Click here for the recipe...

Healthy Coco-nutty Candies

2010-04-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

I made these candies for my Pops. He really loves Almond Joys so I wanted to make something a little healthier that he could munch on. These are the easiest things to make, no cooking necessary, just mixing a few things together in a bowl. The reason why I say they're healthier is the ingredients are only unsweetened, shredded coconut, agave, ground almonds and coconut oil. So if you have a free ten minutes, impress your loved ones with these. These would be great to bring to a party in little miniature muffin foils and you'll fool everyone into thinking you spent hours making the little suckers.

Click here for the recipe...

French Cooper

2010-04-13T09:00:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of our dog, Cooper. He's figured out that the dirt near the bbq tastes like his favorite thing ever- meat. So, he enjoys a little before we get to him and then walks around looking like he has a little french mustache made out of dirt...

Sweet Potato Hamburger Buns

2010-04-10T11:06:00.000-07:00

I wanted to make a healthier version of hamburger buns since my family and I pretty much grill once a week with burgers. (I've been eating boca burgers though, and they taste so much better grilled than cooked in the oven or microwave!)

These buns turned out amazing, they're adapted from several different recipes I've seen floating around blogworld. They're actually made from sweet potatoes so they are loaded with nutrients you wouldn't normally be getting from white rolls. Even my Dad, who is a die hard white hamburger and hot dog bun kinda guy really loved them.

My only complaint was that I made them a little thick. Next time I'll make them the same shape but use less dough for a thinner bun. That means I'll get even more out of the recipe!

The leftovers made for great breakfast (like pictured above) slathered with non- dairy butter. mmm...

Click here for the recipe...

Ian's Peanut Butter Treats

2010-04-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

I made these Peanut Butter Treats when Ian came to visit a while ago and he loved, loved, loved them! Of course, who doesn't love sugar, peanut butter, and chocolate?

This recipe couldn't be easier- it doesn't even involve any baking at all. So even if you're really tired (like I was!) you can still surprise a loved one with a treat. I used dark chocolate to cover them since the peanut butter balls are pretty sweet on their own, and a touch of sea salt on top really helped to balance them out.

Click here for the recipe...

Cranberry Kugel

2010-04-04T18:04:00.000-07:00

I wanted to make a recipe for Passover so I picked one that my grandma had once served me a piece of...Kugel. No, she isn't Jewish, she picked it up on a whim from a Jewish bakery when she was coming back from a casino trip one day.

I ended up loving it, but when I went to recreate it I wanted to make one without the raisins since I don't particularly like them.

Well, after making this dish using egg noodles, cream cheese, and sour cream, I found out that cheese and eggs are no- no's on Passover from a friend. So, I only served this dish to non- Jewish family members, and they raved about it.

So, as long as you aren't keeping kosher or dairy-free right now, give this recipe a shot!

It only takes thirty minutes in the oven and many of the ingredients are staples in our pantry already.

Click here for the recipe...

Winner! Winner!

2010-03-31T20:19:00.000-07:00

The (randomly picked) winner of the plane ticket is...

Amanda R. of Connecticut!

Amanda, e-mail me tomorrow and we can discuss all the details.

Congratulations!

Giveaway!

2010-02-19T11:42:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone!
As you probably know by now my fiancee and I are entered into a contest to win our dream wedding. My maid of honor, Jacque Cerone, came up with the brilliant idea of offering a prize for voting! She even offered to have it be our wedding present! :)
Come on you know you want to vote...who doesn't love winning something?!
In these rough economic times everyone could use a free flight to see family, friends, or significant others. So... that's the prize! A plane ticket for anywhere in the continental US for up to $250!!
Now, here's the rules:
1. You have to visit this website http://www.ultimateweddingcontest.com/entries/23109
and vote for Ian and Katy. You have to log in using your e-mail address and make sure that you follow up with the confirmation e-mail you receive, or your vote won't count. Make sure to check your spam/ junk mail folders because a lot of confirmation e-mails are being directed back there.
2. After you've confirmed your vote, make a note of what number vote you were and e-mail me back with your name, contact information, and what number vote you were. Send this to my email at sewingandsoymilk@gmail.com
3. For another entry in the contest post a link to our page on your facebook, myspace, twitter, blog, or other social networking service. Then, send me a link to that site and i will count it as a second vote.
4. Or, for even more entries forward this e-mail to your contact list. For every friend of yours who enters, you will also receive another chance at winning the plane ticket! Just make sure that when they e-mail me to be entered in the contest they mention your name or how will I know?!

The contest ends on March 30th, 2010 at midnight
The winner will be announced on this blog!

Good Luck!

This contest is limited to people within the continental united states and over the age of 18

Stuffed French Toast

2010-01-24T10:48:00.000-08:00

Because of my medicine I've been trying to have more high- fat breakfasts instead of my usual smoothies. I thought I was going to seriously miss my smoothies, but french toast stuffed with cream cheese and fresh blueberries changed my mind!

I used sprouted wheat bread which made the meal more filling and piled fresh blueberries on top when it was done cooking for some extra antioxidants.

The maple syrup, however, I have no excuse for!

Stuffed French Toast Recipe

Donation to Haiti

2010-01-22T18:50:00.000-08:00

So today I finally donated money to Haiti. I was looking for the organization that I wanted most to give my money to and one directed towards helping the animal survivors really called out to me. If something happened at my home I hope someone would be kind to my dog, Finn.

I donated here and you can too!

This picture is courtesy of The Animal Rescue Site

Hungarian Pork Paprikash

2010-01-21T12:21:00.000-08:00

Today i made another dish from Martha Stewart's Recipe, Pork Paprikash. It was delicious! I was inspired to make it because of a fellow traveler Ian and I met in Morocco. A group of us foreigners went camping in the Sahara Desert and after our long camel trek she and her (new!) husband told us what their home- Hungary- was like for them. She told us about stews with potatoes, tomatoes, bread, and made our mouths water. So, when I came across this Hungarian Paprikash I needed to make it. It didn't hurt that we had all the ingredients already in our fridge.

Here's a picture of the delicious dish my family enjoyed

Here's a picture of the trip where I met the lady who inspired me to make this dish
(Wow, that's a mouthful...)

Black Bean and Spinach Soup

2010-01-19T09:00:00.000-08:00

Tasted okay, looked really gross. An experiment I wouldn't recommend you try...

Donut Cupcakes

2010-01-17T09:00:00.000-08:00

I saw a version of this recipe on Bread and Honey, a blog I enjoy following. Instead of just sticking to the tips posted, though, I decided to make the ingredients a little bit more me.
They are a great treat to make when you are craving those fried circles- minus all the grease. Even my parents said, "Wow, these really taste like donuts!"

This recipe made enough to fill an entire cupcake tray and a few mini loaves as well!

My pops, below, holding one of the finished products

Cupcake Donuts Recipe

Giveaway at Chocolate Covered Katie

2010-01-16T12:35:00.001-08:00

So, when I was reading one of my blogs that I check daily, Chocolate Covered Katie, I saw that there was a give away going on for none other than a Vita-Mix Blender...woohoo! I instantly pictured myself making my morning smoothie without having to keep adding juice and then, still, tilting the blender practically upside down to get all the fruit ground.

If you guys want the chance to win a blender, just visit her site here to learn about how to sign up:

Vitameata- Mix Giveaway

In case any of you guys are unfamiliar with her site, I thought I'd share a staple of hers I've been making recently; Fudge Babies. Unfortunately, they haven't lasted long enough to take a picture but, trust me, the whole family loves them. In fact, I made them for my mom to take to a party alongside some not-so-healthy truffles at Christmastime and they went first!

They are raw and healthy for you so you can totally indulge. The ingredients she lists are dates, walnuts, vanilla and cocoa. I left out the vanilla and they were still wonderful. I hope you try these out!

Ugly Pancakes...

2010-01-14T12:00:00.000-08:00

Here's an easy, and sweet, way to incorporate soymilk into your diet, especially if you aren't a big fan of the flavor straight out of the carton.  I also added some oatmeal to the base of this recipe to increase the fiber in the recipe.  For some extra spunk... I threw in a handful of chocolate chips, walnuts, smashed banana and a dash of cinnamon.  But really, almost anything could be added.  I would try any combo of dried fruit and nuts instead of chocolate chips if you want to be extra good :) 

The resulting ugliness of these pancakes was due to my own pancake flipping/ spreading skills, not the recipe.  Inside they tasted light and fluffy.  So, don't worry, yours might end up much better looking!

1 c. rolled oats

1/2 c. all- purpose flour

1/2 c. whole wheat flour

2 Tbl. Agave Nectar

1/2 Tbl Baking Powder

Dash Salt

1 c. Soy Milk

1 egg

1/8 c. Vegetable Oil

In a medium- sized bowl gently stir together all the dry ingredients.  Set aside and pull out a larger bowl.  In this bowl mix all the wet ingredients together.  Now, slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into your wet mixture.  Don't mix for too long, to avoid tough pancakes.

Add a pat of butter to a skillet over medium- low heat.  Pour level scoops of the mixture (with plenty of room between...) onto the melted butter.  When bubbles start to rise and the edges look cooked flip over onto the other side and cook for an additional minute.

Smother in your favorite toppings- butter and syrup for me!

Whole- Wheat Pizza

2010-01-12T12:00:00.000-08:00

This time my Pops bought some pre- made dough at our local grocery store so we didn't have to wait a few hours for our own whole wheat dough to rise... and then rise again. This meal was a collaborative effort since my Pops is the expert on making pizzas. He heated up his round pizza stone in the oven to get things going at 425 degrees.

After rolling out the dough to the right size he put it on the hot stone for eight minutes without any ingredients on top, making sure that no bubbles were forming on the crust.  This makes it crispy and not soggy, a pizza problem we've encountered in the past.

Once the crust was pulled out we added sauce and our favorite staples; olives, onions, mushrooms, red peppers, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and a handful of pepperoni.  I'm more of a turkey or veggie pepperoni girl but there's no convincing my Dad of their merits.

Another fourteen minutes in the oven (or until the cheese is melted and starting to brown in a few places) and that pizza was done!  We let it sit for a few minutes before slicing and diving in.

A few of the Pioneer Woman's Best

2010-01-10T16:21:00.000-08:00

I don't know if you guys follow Ree Drummond of The Pioneer Woman but her recipes are wonderful. I can't think of one I don't want to try so it's hard to pick where to begin. So, I didn't pick- I had Ian, my fiancee pick. He was craving steak bites and cheesy garlic bread and even though we're miles apart that's what I picked to make for my family.

He's promised to make the recipes for his family all the way back in California.

Steak Bites

A nice addition to the steak bites was a side of sauteed mushrooms, garlic, and onion. To do this I just chopped two large garlic cloves, 10 mushrooms, and a small onion. I put a pat of butter into a hot pan and added in all the veggies. A few minutes later they were browned and beautiful and ready to be topped on the steak bites.

Also with this meal I made The Pioneer Woman's Garlic Cheese Bread

The only substitution I made to this dish was using some fresh Thyme that was in the house instead of the chives- it was a great substitution. Even after broiling it for a minute too long (look at those crispy edges!) this was by far the best part of the meal. I will definitely be making this again and I bet Ian's family will love it just as much.

Book Review

2010-01-10T13:40:00.000-08:00

So, my fiancee bought me this book for my plane ride back home to Connecticut (Isn't he sweet?). Well, between missing my connection because of weather and then safety concerns delaying take off later in the day, I finished the book! This is the second book from Dave Eggers that we have read, the first was What is the What. (I know books are supposed to be underlined, but I'm fairly new to the blogging world and I can only find italics and bold, so, there you go.)
This book, Zetoun, is set in New Orleans around the time the hurricane hit. It depicts all the happenings, dramatic and otherwise, for a Muslim family living in the area. It never delves too long into one subject... racism, floods, tragedy, family... but, rather, approaches a subject directly and then ebbs away, like the natural flow of water; eroding the human psyche slowly, practically unseen until the damage is too great to look past.
Zetoun was far better in my opinion than the previous book by Mr. Eggers. As the events rolled through you weren't spared from the rest of daily life, or only given the juiciest parts of the family's tale. By the end, I felt like I couldn't understand what it meant to be muslim trapped in a horrific natural event in the United States but I knew what it meant to be human dealing with each day and the uncertainty of what it will hold.

Vacation in San Diego

2009-12-17T15:57:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm back in San Diego for a short while. I just got in today and it was so great to see my sister after all these months. Tomorrow Ian gets in and Saturday the rest of the family will arrive. Can't wait to celebrate Christmas with some sunshine!

I was a little low on Vitamin D, ya know! Jackie's puppy Hercules came in the car to pick me up from the airport. He's only a couple of months old but he already weighs 40 lbs. He still has that puppy look to his features, though. He's learning the tricks and training well...except for remembering to pee outdoors.

Slight break, but I'm back!

2009-10-25T12:19:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone! My boyfriend and I went to Ireland for several months to work on organic farms. That's why there has been a serious lack of postings. If you would like to read about our adventures and see some pictures head on over to
pizzaisprettygood.blogspot.com

So, now that I'm back in the States I will make sure to start putting up some great Fall recipes!

sugar substitutes

2009-05-31T08:15:00.000-07:00

I recently received an E-mail from the San Diego Lyme Support Group that listed some interesting tips on artificial and natural sweeteners. Of course, I always try and use natural sugar substitutes but there are times when I'm absolutely craving a Diet Coke. These notes provided me with some helpful reminders, as well as new reasons, to resist those cravings and stick to my Stevia! I copied the e-mail here so hopefully you can learn a little bit more about the sugar substitutes currently on the market. Have a good Sunday!

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT SWEETENERS: ARTIFICIAL AND NATURAL

ARTIFICIAL:

Sucralose:
- increases ph in intestines
- decreases effectiveness of Rx by rerouting them back to the intestines
- promotes weight gain
- kills 50% of good bacteria in gut
- has long term accumulative effect
- is stored in fat in body

Aspartame:
- breaks down to formaldehyde in the body
- causes destruction to nerve cells and brain tissue
- not safe to cook with as breaks down in heat.

Saccharine:
- documentated to cause cancer, especially bladder cancer

NATURAL:

Xylitol:
- found naturally in plants and trees
- has a cooling effect in the mouth
- helps to reduce plaque in the mouth by killing oral bacteria (Strep mutans)
- helps to reduce bad breath due to killing bacteria in the mouth
- has 2/3rds the amount of calories than sugar
- has low glycemic index
- has been shown to help prevent weakening of bone improving bone density
- use of xylitol chewing gum can help prevent ear infections (has a mild
anti-biotic effect) and is used in sinus washes to reduce sinus infection
- some evidence that it reduces candida in the mouth when chewing in gum or
lozenges
- helpful in preventing transmision of Strep mutans from lactating mothers to
infants, thus reducing risk of tooth decay in nursing children.
- no known toxicity
- like all of the alcohol sugars, it can have a laxative effect when consumed in
large quantities though it is greatly less than sorbitol as it is a larger
molecule
- can be harmful to dogs when given large quantities

Erythritol:
- found naturally in many plants
- has almost no calories
- safe for diabetics; does not effect blood sugar levels
- no known harmful side effects
- can have laxative effect at larger quanties
- has a cooling effect in the mouth

Stevia:
- comes from a chrysanthemum-type of flower
- known to kill candida
- no known harmful effects
- has a bitter aftertaste
- may have beneficial effects on blood pressure and diabetics
- not as expensive as other natural sugar alternatives
- safe to cook with

Sorbitol:
- can cause intestinal gas and has a laxative effect in larger quantities
- is used in alot of commercial products so it is easier to get too much if you are
using it also as a sugar alternative.
- can lead to Irritable Bowel Syndrome when used habitually like chewing gum or candies.
- used alot in sugar-free candies

Mannitol:
- used in sugar-free candies
- used pharmaceutically to increase kidney filtration
- can be dangerous in large quantities; may cause harmful effects on kidney function, heart function, and fluid balance in the body and cranium (brain)

Maltitol:
- used in sugar-free candies
- does have carbohydrates, only slightly less calories than sugar
- has high glycemic index
- poor substitute for sugar as it almost is sugar
- can cause same intestinal disturbance as other sugar-alcohols

Flax as egg substitute

2009-05-12T21:21:00.000-07:00

Yep, another flax post. Flax can be used as an egg replacer. This is important for making delicious baked goods. Now, you can make them more vegan- friendly and with an extra dose of healthy nutrients. Using flax instead of eggs incorporates Omega 3 fatty acids, B vitamins, protein, manganese, magnesium, phosphorous, iron and calcium into the recipe. To use mix together 1 Tbsp. ground flax seeds (also called flax meal) with 3 Tbsp. of water for each egg in the recipe.

note: try using this in larger baked items- cake, brownies, etc... flax can make the goods a little more crumbly, making it hard for small cookies to hold up.

animal free makeup

2009-05-10T18:28:00.000-07:00

(beautiful picture to the right courtesy of arbonne.com!)

So, my mom sells Arbonne products. While I understand everything she tells me about them I have yet to invest much of my own money into the line- until now. On top of being made from all fresh ingredients like kiwi, orange, etc... all of the products are vegan. I thought that pertained solely to the exclusion of milk or similar ingredients into their formulas. Nope. Many cosmetic companies, especially some mineral make-up lines include animal by- products. All the sick animals, parts that don't get sold as meat, bones, etc... are pushed through an industrial grinder and turned into a fine powder which is utilized by many industries, including the skin care industry. I will now be investing my hard earned cash into Arbonne makeup products because the alternative is too disgusting to fathom. If you would like to read more about the products visit my mom's page and take a peek!

Cucumber water is my new favorite drink.

2009-05-08T23:21:00.001-07:00

Today was my going away party at the office... Just one short month until Ian and I are in Ireland, yay! My co-workers threw an impromptu gathering that had a lot of healthy and simple recipes. My favorites came from Sarah. First, she had a homemade cranberry dressing to go with the green salad. Then, she had a fresh quinoa cold salad. But the real kicker was what she brought for a drink- cucumber water! It was a hit with everyone; the combination of fresh mint and the light, earthy taste of cucumber was utterly refreshing. This drink was just a further reminder that summer is almost here! Here are Sarah's recipes for you to enjoy:

Cranberry-Maple Salad Dressing
2/3 c. Maple Syrup
1 c. cranberries (or a fruit of your choosing, raspberries would work well!)
1/2 c. Apple Cider Vinegar
1 c. Olive Oil

Blend all ingredients until smooth except for the oil. When the mixture is smooth slowly add the oil while the blender is in motion. Refrigerate and enjoy!

Cold Quinoa Salad
2 c. Vegetable broth
1 c. quinoa, rinsed thoroughly
1/3 c. yellow peppers (any other color substitution is fine...)
1 Tbsp. minced garlic
2 Tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped finely
Salt and pepper to taste

Bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the quinoa to the broth . Reduce the heat, cover and let simmer for 15 minutes. Once all the liquid has been absorbed take off the heat. Fluff lightly and fold remaining ingredients into the hot quinoa.

Cucumber Water
1 cucumber
1 quart water
1/2 lime
1 Tbsp mint, chopped finely
1 Tbsp. sugar

In a blender combine the cucumber and 1/2 the water. Once they are combined pour the mixture over a piece of cheesecloth to remove seeds and excess pulp. Then, add the remaining water and seasonings. Stir well and drink on hot days!

Product Review: Organic Sunshine Burgers

2009-04-20T22:00:00.000-07:00

So, today I picked up some Organic Sunshine Burgers. These are unique because they are also gluten- free, something I've had difficulty finding in the faux meat world. I tried out the Southwest style and they had a pleasant kick to them. However, the texture was a bit off- a little too dry and crumbly to hold up on the bun with a bunch of fixings. I would buy these again because of the flavor, but only when I'm feeling extra flush. At my local grocery store these were pretty pricey and came with only three burgers in the box.
I recommend eating them how I did tonight; top your burger with half of a smashed avocado, a slice of cheddar- flavored cheese alternative, soy bacon, a tablespoon of natural barbeque sauce and a dash of both garlic and onion powder. I chose a toasted whole wheat bun to stuff that all in but eating them with a knife and fork might help with the textural issues and prevent any spillage. Overall, this meal was filling and stopped any cravings I was having for fast food on the spot!

Banana Brown Rice Pudding

2009-04-18T21:38:00.000-07:00

Even though the months say it's spring, there's still a chill to the air here in San Diego. Because of that after work I was craving something sweet and comforting to warm up. I also wanted to utilize more of the ground flaxmeal I had in the fridge. Banana Brown Rice Pudding was the solution. This recipe is super easy and makes dessert for two!

Ingredients:

2 1/2c. almond milk (or soymilk)
1/4 c. brown rice
1/8 tsp. vanilla
1 1/2 Tbsp. maple syrup or agave
1 Tbsp ground flaxmeal
dash cinnamon
dash nutmeg
1/2 banana, mashed
1/2 banana, sliced for garnish

Directions:

1. Mix all ingredients except for banana in a medium sized sauce pan
2. Turn to low heat and let simmer for 30 minutes, stirring frequently
3. Add mashed banana and simmer for another ten to twenty minutes. Add more almond milk if mixture has completely absorbed all liquid before the rice is soft and chewy.
4. Place into serving bowls and garnish with sliced banana. I added a touch more maple syrup on top of mine for some extra sweetness! Enjoy!

The lowdown on flax

2009-04-16T12:43:00.000-07:00

Pretty much everything I knew about flax was that it was high in fiber, which aids bowel movements. While that was enough to get me putting it into my yogurt every morning, I was curious to learn more about what I was putting into my body. Turns out, flax helps out with a lot of other things as well. It is a good source of ALA which aids it in fighting heart disease.

Now, remember all that fiber I was telling you about? Flax is rich in the soluble kind which means that it will help reduce cholesterol. That fiber combined with the protein flax also contains means you'll stay full longer when you use it as an additive in your foods.

I purchase mine pre- ground and the reason for that is because the outer hull on the flax seed can be rough for us to digest. If you bought yours whole you can always grind it yourself. After I've thrown mine in the yogurt I put the bag in the fridge or freezer- this keeps it staying fresh for longer.

Ground flax has a mild nutty flavor to it and adds a slight crunch to your foods.

Need some ideas about how to use it? Throw it in your hot or cold cereal, pancake mix, peanut butter sandwiches, on top of fruit salad, or mix it in with creamcheese to top bagels. My favorite is to mix it with strawberry creamcheese and pair it with fresh sliced strawberries on a whole grain bagel.

If you don't have time to do your own mixings don't worry, many products on the market now are proudly containing flax. Just read labels and check packages to see if you're getting your flax fix.

A new quote for you!

2009-04-06T11:22:00.001-07:00

As I'm sitting here at the beginning of another work looking at all the things on my desk that need to be completed, anxiously awaiting my trip to Texas this Thursday, I received an e-mail from my good friend Rebecca. Rebecca is one of the kindest, gentlest souls I have ever met and has continously provided a wealth of inspiration for all areas of my life. I thought I would share with you the words she provided that will get me through the next four work days...

Lovely Katy,
As promised, here is that great quote that I wanted to share with you:
"We know little, but that we must trust in what is difficult for it is a certainty that will never abandon us...and only if we arrange our lives in accordance with the principle which tells us that we must always trust in the difficult, what now appears to us as most alien will become our most intimate and trusted experience...Perhaps everything that frightens us is in its deepest essence, something helpless that wants our love."
A jewel from Rainer Maria Rilke shared by my mentor, Christina.
Always,Rebecca

Have a wonderful start to your week!

TEST

2009-04-03T12:15:00.000-07:00

TEST

An oldie but goodie... Hummus! Recipe

2000-06-30T19:03:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

1 c. dried chickpeas

2 tbsp. raw, unsalted cashews (or pieces)

2 cloves of garlic

1.5 tbsp. olive oil

1 tbsp. tahini

juice from 1 lemon

1/2 tsp cumin

1/2 tsp salt

dash of black pepper

Directions:

1. Place the chickpeas in a bowl and cover with water, soak overnight.

2. Place the raw, unsalted cashews in a bowl and cover with water, soak overnight.

3. In the morning cook the chickpeas in water and cook for an hour to an hour and a half, until soft and 'mushable.' Some recipes call for three to four hours, so use your best judgement with your chickpeas.

4. Drain the chickpeas and cool by running cold water over them.

5. Drain the cashews from the water they were soaked in.

6. In a food processor add all the above ingredients one by one and mix until pureed.

7. This hummus is thicker so add extra lemon juice to thin if that is your preference.

Cabbage, Spring onion and Potato Cakes Recipe

2000-06-30T18:40:00.000-07:00

Makes 10 small cakes

Ingredients:
2 c. finely chopped green cabbage
3 spring onions, chopped finely
six small potatoes
1.5 c. panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp nondairy butter
salt
pepper

Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees
2. Heat 1 Tbsp of nondairy butter in a frying pan on medium heat. Put the cabbage and spring onions in the butter and stir every so often.
3. While that is cooking put water and a dash of salt into a medium sized pot and bring to a rolling boil. Add the potatoes and boil until soft when pierced with a fork, about 15 minutes.
4. Drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot. Add in the softened cabbage and spring onions and mash together thoroughly.
5. Mix in 1/2 cup panko crumbs and salt and pepper to taste
6. Form into small patties, a little smaller than the palm of your hand.
7. Place the patties one by one in the rest of the crumbs and press the coating into all sides of the patties.
8. Put the patties on a baking sheet and melt the remaining butter in the frying pan. Drizzle the butter over the patties.

Cranberry Kugel Recipe

2000-06-30T17:57:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

1/2 lb. egg noodles

1/4 stick of melted butter

1/2 lb. cream cheese

1 c. sour cream

1/4 c. packed brown sugar

3 eggs

1/2 tsp. allspice

1/4 c. dried cranberries

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees

2. Heat water to boiling and add in the noodles. Boil for 5 minutes.

3. In a medium mixing bowl combine the noodles with all the other ingredients

4. Spray a 9x9 square baking pan with cooking spray

5. Press the noodle mixture into the pan and bake for 35 minutes, until set and beginning to turn golden on top

Whole Wheat Flax Bread Recipe

2000-06-30T15:31:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

1.5 c warm water

1 tbsp olive oil

3 tbsp agave

1/2 tsp salt

2.5 c whole wheat flour

1 c unbleached white flour

1/3 c vital wheat gluten

4 tbsp ground, toasted flaxseeds

1 packet active dry yeast

Directions:

1. Allow the salt, oil, agave, and yeast to sit in the warm water for 2-3 minutes.

2. In a large bowl (or mixer) combine the flours, wheat gluten and flax.

3. Add in the water with yeast combination. Mix until combined and then continue mixing with the dough hook for at least ten minutes. If using a bowl, turn the dough out onto a floured board and knead for the same amount of time.

4. Grease two loaf pans and put one half of the dough into each. Allow the dough to rise until double, 30 minutes to an hour.

5. Bake the dough at 350 degrees F for 30 minutes or until light brown and golden on top. If you tap the bottom of the loaf it should sound hollow.

Healthy Coco-nutty Candies Recipe

2000-06-30T15:03:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

3/4 c. ground almonds

1 c. shredded, unsweetened coconut

2 tbsp coconut oil

2 tbsp agave

optional:

3 tsp. unsweetened cocoa

chocolate/almonds for decorating

Directions:

1. Combine the first four ingredients in a medium bowl and use a fork to thoroughly combine.

If you want the candies to be chocolate flavored combine the unsweetened cocoa as well.

2. Using your hands, mold the coconut-almond mixture into small mounds and set on a plate or tray.

3. If you like, melt chocolate over low heat and place 1/2 tsp on top of each mound and place an almond on top.

Coconut-Ginger Blondies Recipe

2000-06-30T14:49:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

1 c unbleached flour

2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

7 tbsp butter (salted)

1 3/4 c packed brown sugar

2 tsp vanilla

1 dash freshly grated nutmeg

2 eggs

1/4 c finely chopped candied ginger

1/4 c unsweetened coconut flakes

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and grease a 13"x9" pan.

2. In a medium bowl combine all the flour, baking powder and salt.

3. In a medium saucepan melt the butter, turn off heat, and add in brown sugar, nutmeg, vanilla and eggs.

4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just combined.

5. Fold in the ginger and coconut.

6. Spread the batter into the greased pan evenly and bake for thirty minutes.

7. Cut and enjoy!!

Red, White and Blue Oats Recipe

2000-06-30T14:29:00.000-07:00

Serves: 2

Ingredients:

1/4 c steel cut oats

1/4 c red quinoa (rinsed well)

2 tsp agave

2 c. nondairy milk such as coconut milk

1 c. fresh blueberries

Directions:

1. In a medium pot bring the coconut milk to a boil. Add in the steel cut oats and red quinoa and reduce the heat to low.

2. Cook for 30 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed.

3. Stir in the agave

4. Serve in two bowls and top with 1/2 c. fresh blueberries each

Donut Cupcakes Recipe

2000-06-30T12:14:00.000-07:00

Recipe:
Ingredients:
1.5 c. all-purpose flour
1.5 c. whole wheat pastry flour
2 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp cinnamon
3/4 c. buttermilk
1 1/2 sticks softened unsalted butter
1/2 c. white sugar
1/4 c. brown sugar
2 large eggs
For topping:
2/3 c. powdered sugar
1 Tbl brown sugar
dash cinnamon

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour a standard-size cupcake pan or use paper wrappers.

2. In a large mixing bowl beat the butter until it becomes softer. Add the sugar a few parts at a time and incorporate thoroughly. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing these in well.

3. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg. Mix them together.

4. Begin slowly adding the flour mixture into the egg/butter mixture. Alternate between adding the flour mixture and adding the buttermilk into the egg/ butter mixture. Mix gently.

5. Place the batter evenly until the hollows of the cupcake pan. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until a toothpick or cake tester comes out clean and the tops have a rich, golden color.

6. Wait an hour, or the next day, depending on your patience to add the topping. Combine the sugars and spice in a small bowl and pour slowly into a sifter. Sift over the cupcakes until they are evenly, but not thickly, covered.

Sweet Potato Hamburger Bun Recipe

2000-06-30T11:24:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

2 medium sweet potatoes

1.5 c warm water

1 tsp agave

2 tsp salt

1 packet active dry yeast

3 c whole wheat flour

3 c unbleached white flour

Directions:

1. Cut the sweet potatoes into medium- sized chunks and boil in salted water until they are soft and easy to mash. Drain the water and transfer the potatoes to a clean bowl. Mash them with an electric mixer or with the back of a wooden spoon.

2. In a measuring cup add the water, agave, salt and finally the yeast. Let that sit for as long as your yeast packet directs (anywhere from 2-10 minutes).

3. Mix the sweet potato and the yeast water together and begin slowly incorporating all the flour.

4. When all the flour is mixed in turn the dough out onto a floured large cutting board. Knead the bread for 10- 15 minutes.

5. Place the dough in a bowl that has been brushed with oil and brush some over the top of the dough as well. Place seran wrap or a warm, damp towel over the top and let it sit and rise for an hour. Make sure the bowl is placed in a warm and draft free area for optimal rising.

6. Punch down the dough and shape into round, flat rolls. I placed mine on two ungreased baking sheets. Cover and let rise again for another forty five minutes.

7. Heat the oven to 450 degrees and bake the rolls for 15 minutes.

8. Let settle and cool before enjoying!

Stuffed French Toast Recipe

2000-06-30T10:49:00.000-07:00

Recipe Serves 1, adjust accordingly

Ingredients:

2 pieces sprouted wheat or whole grain bread

1 egg

1/2 c. vanilla almond milk

dash cinnamon

1 tsp. canola oil

1.5 Tbsp. Cream Cheese

Handful fresh blueberries (plus more for decorating if you want!)

Instructions:

1. Spread cream cheese over one slice of toast and place the blueberries on top. Place the second piece of bread on top.

2. In a shallow dish mix the egg, almond milk and cinnamon together. Place the cream cheese sandwich in the egg and milk combination, flipping after two minutes. Leave on the other side for two minutes.

3. In a small skillet heat the canola oil and place the sandwich in the oil. After three minutes flip and cook on the other side.

4. Top with extra blueberries, maple syrup, whatever you like!

Ian's Peanut Butter Treats Recipe

2000-06-30T02:00:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

2 c. graham Crackers

1 c. natural peanut butter (or almond butter, depending on preference...)

1 c. confectioner's sugar

1/2 pckg dark chocolate chips

1 tbsp. vegetable oil

sea salt for sprinkling

Directions:

1. Combine the first three ingredients in a medium mixing bowl. Using a fork, thoroughly mix together.

2. Roll the mixture into balls and place on parchment paper on a baking sheet. Place into the freezer while you melt the chocolate.

3. In a double boiler melt the dark chocolate slowly over low heat and add in the vegetable oil.

4. Set out a cooling rack with parchment paper underneath and take out the tray with the peanut-graham-sugar balls.

5. One by one dip the frozen balls into the chocolate and place on the cooling rack. Sprinkle with a touch of sea salt.

6. Leave untouched until completely firm.