RSS

Tag Archives: vegetarian

WIAW #53: Oh The Places You Will Go

Another Wednesday means another What I Ate Wednesday.

You won’t guess where I am? That’s right, I am in Massachusetts. Of course, New England is always calling. For this WIAW, I show you some eats I have been grubbin’ on. But before we do that I wanted to talk about something that may be on your mine. Why are you seeing wheat?wiawphotobuttonWell to be honest and this is the honest truth; I just haven’t been hungry for anything. So the only thing I manage to eat is a sandwich that someone prepares for me. How does my stomach feel? Most of the times, it’s okay and I try to stick to sourdough or not to whole wheat bread (less bran for digesting). I know it probably not the best thing but I wanted to show you that I am human.

Hanging with mom at the mall and made a stop at Panera Bread for a delicious panini!

It’s just that I have been all over the place, [even the post is all over] and these eats will show you so. Non-the-less they are delicious. Oh, I had to share with you some yummy vanilla froyo with blackberries and almonds with my mom while we were at the mall. Who can pass up some froyo?Now for breakfasts, I have been doing this awesome WholeFoods find from Nature’s Path; Qi’a! It’s a delicious gluten-free superfood cereal and I’ve mix it into my breakfast cakes. The stats are awesome, you just really have to check it out. I tried out the cranberry vanilla in store and fell in love. And it has 15% of iron, which is perfect for my anemic behind.For snacks, I couldn’t resist picking up on of these bad boys.And how bout my lunch today? My friend and I went for Brazilian. My, oh, my! But I think I am the only one who eats Vegetarian style at a specialty meat BBQ place.Other snacks have included bananas, apples, pears, nuts/seeds and dark chocolate chips. Nothing too interesting. But so far my favorite meal was this one of a turkey and herb sandwich on sourdough bread with blackberries and yogurt. Mmm, mmm good!Question: Do you ever feel being in the blog/ social media world that you have to be perfect? I sometimes feel that but now I am just being me and showing that I am not perfect, I have flaws… MANY, MANY flaws. But it’s what makes me, me.

About these ads
 

Tags: , , , , , , , ,

WIAW #48: Down To The Wire

Happy What I Ate Wednesday! Thanks Jenn for hosting this food party.wiawphotobuttonIt’s time to get cracking! I have one month until the conference and it is time to kick it into high gear. It’s down to the wire now; cleaner eats and less sweets. *cringe*

Breakfasts: Breakfast cakes again! But for this one I took out all the sugar except for maple syrup. I’m trying to cut back on “adding sugar” to things. Topped it with some pumpkin seeds and the Nature’s Path granola I found. I was seriously hungry.IMG_20130430_084259For snack, it’s some variation of fruit and nuts or cheese and nuts. 532302_10101549381459000_596674822_nLunches have been some homemade black bean and quinoa burgers topped with more black beans and some spinach with an olive oil drizzle.163577_644189342261296_1807677602_nI normally don’t do an after lunch snack because lately my lunches have kept me full and I have an earlier dinner. This ones was delicious; egg white omelette with Kerrygold gouda cheese, black beans, almonds, strawberries and yes… more spinach!100MEDIA_IMAG1180For after dinner, I have a trail mix of pumpkin seeds, raisins, sunflower seeds and a few chocolate discs. Since I have one month until my personal training conference, I’m buckling down.nutsQuestion: How do you eat “cleaner” for events? I definitely like to cut out the dairy, get in my protein, fruits/ veggies and lower the carbs a bit. 

 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,

Sunday, Sunday…

Warning: I’m going to ramble here!

(Wait for tomorrow… there will be EXCITEMENT)

That’s what Sundays are for. This week was quite a week. Some awesome recipes and yummy foods. Like free cheese. Who doesn’t like free cheese?532239_10101544724686210_1870195383_nAnd with this yummy cheese, I decided to make an egg white scramble on some Ener-G toast with some spinach on the bottom. I like to eat “savory” breakfasts as lunch. Rarely ever as a breakfast.554061_10101544724691200_2080452202_nI don’t know why, but it’s a a quick simple post workout lunch. I had a good leg and ab session that day. I am feeling all sorts of good. A post in incomplete without a mirror shot!559944_10101544724825930_189668492_nI’ve been cleaning up my eats and it feels great. I’m limiting my dairy intake (uh because of bloating and “stuff”) but I had my last Greek yogurt one day with hemp hearts and pepitas. Love me them hemp hearts. Perfect way to get my omega-3′s ’cause fish makes me cringe. As you can see, I’m going back to my “vegetarian roots.” Like I said, just doing what works for yours truly. I made some “mac n’ cheese” with none other then spinach on the bottom. Surprise, surprise.558972_10101544724865850_984213104_nOh, I also got a couple of new goodies. I wanted a bar to stash in my bag for emergencies and I found the chocolate chip cherry torte from Larabar. I despise Larabars except for the coconut cream pie and chocolate chip cookie dough. Maybe this one won’t be so bad?525411_10101544724781020_1575227794_nAnd for when I am on the go, some organic instant oatmeal packets. You know I got maple. I’m a maple addict if you couldn’t already tell. 558873_10101544724696190_1046059398_nSpeaking of on the go (don’t ask me why I just said that) I have a little “nutty and healthy” giveaway coming for you within the next week. Just gathering the last few touches, so stay tuned.

Question: Are you a Larabar fan?

Like I said, I only like two flavors, but I barely tried many except for cashew cookie, blueberry muffin, apple pie and chocolat. Any suggestions?

 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,

WIAW #45: Back To Basics

Happy WIAW everyone! Head on over to Peas and Crayons if you are new to the party.wiawphotobutton This is my frist WIAW in a while where it’s just me back to my basic food. As it gets warmer, I do like my cereal sometimes. Organic Honey Nut O’s w/ frozen (thawed raspberries).IMG_20130409_083612Even going back to some grapes, cheese and nuts for a snack. A classic.IMG_20130408_143804I don’t know how many times I had this lunch ever since I got that bread. Sometimes I have it with the sliced turkey, other times grilled chicken.544116_629484633731767_967961_nOh and even doing more vegetarian based dishes. I do miss my beans! I at this with some white rice and broccoli. Quick, easy, and delicious!IMG_20130408_142131Another classic in my eats? Chocolate! Good ole dark chocolate versions of these. I love that they have a little bit of everything; fiber, protein and healthy fats. Not to mention, they are easy to make.733810_629528920394005_1900445050_nQuestion: What are some of your “classic eats?” I definitely do a lot of almonds and chocolate. Those are presents in some way everyday!

 

Tags: , , , , , , ,

Vanilla & Almond Protein Squares (or “Truffles”)

I was craving a vanilla almond Luna bar and a Rise almond honey protein bar all in one. Don’t ask me how that craving came about, but I know I wanted them both. I decided to take one of my “truffle” recipes and came up with this yummy thing.IMG_20130403_122135This recipe is gluten-free and can be vegan if you use Earth Balance and a vegan protein powder. It literally took me under 10 minutes to make. It’s even faster if you already have caramel sauce in the fridge. You know I have some ready; you just never know.IMG_20130403_104948Vanilla & Almond Protein Squares/ “Truffles” Ingredients (Inspired by this recipe)’

  • 1 1/2 Tbsps of Almond Butter (I used Justin’s Maple)
  • 1 Tbsp of the Homemade “Caramel” Sauce (makes all the difference! Or try 2 tsps of coconut oil. It may change the taste, so beware! Or do an oz. of melted dark chocolate (pictured first and it’s really good!).
  • 1 Scoop of Vanilla Protein Powder
  • 1 tsp of Pure Maple Syrup (or Agave)
  • 1/4 tsp of Vanilla Extract
  • Filling (optional): sliced almonds, dark chocolate chips, etc.
  • Coating: Roll truffles into vanilla protein powder or your choice*

Prepare the “caramel” sauce before making this recipe. Place nut butter in the microwave for about 20 seconds if you need to softened. Then mix the first five ingredients to form a soft “cookie” dough, that can be made into a square or ball either using your hands or melon scooper.

If too thick, add more “caramel” sauce. If too liquid-y, add more protein powder. Then add your choice of filling, if you want an extra crunch. These pictured don’t have anything inside, I just ate then with almonds on the side.

Then take the mixture and make into two squares or four truffles and roll in your choice coating*. I used vanilla protein powder, but have fun with it. Make it your own. Maybe even try and dip it into dark or white chocolate for a decadent treat!IMG_20130403_104917Question: What’s you favorite Luna, Rise or protein bar?

I’m going to say Luna’s vanilla almond (duh), the Rise almond honey protein bar (duh x’s two) and thinkThin’s dark chocolate. I just can no longer eat that one because of the peanuts. Boo.

 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

25 Before 25 Change: A Paleo Week?

Instead of doing a week vegan, I am deciding to do a week Paleo.

Why? Well I have been doing a ton of research the past few days on soy and the Paleo Diet after watching the movie “In Search of The Perfect Human Diet.” It goes into great detail about food during the time of our ancestors and how they didn’t suffer with any food related problems until the introduction of grains, soy, dairy and, of course, processed foods.

Soy Products

 If you haven’t seen it, I definitely recommend you check it out. I know for my New Year’s Resolution I opted not to eat meat and do Vegetarian. But like the weather in Massachusetts, I always change my mind. Now, doesn’t mean I am going to grab any piece of meat I find. I still stick to the “buy organic, humanly raise, grass-fed antibiotic and hormone freemantra I declared last year. Easier said than done, I know.

Local, Grass-Fed Beef? Yes, Please!

Through all my research, the best article I found related to all this was this one from Cave Girl Eats. It summed up information on soy and grains (and their “anti-nutrient” properties) as well as the health benefits from eating a Paleo Diet. How do I feel about Vegetarian diets? Honestly, I still feel like eating Veg gives me the most energy and feels best for my *ehem* bowel movements.

Vegetarian Food Pyramid

When will this occur? Well I do have to finish up my groceries and not having a million dates with people before I leave. To be honest I am tired of labels. I try to stick to what my body enjoys which is mostly vegetarian, eliminating oats and brown rice, and eating dairy products. I also got rid of the scale and calorie counting. Honestly some days I eat 2,600 calories and others 1,600.

Ditch the Scale!

Granted I know more about nutrition then the average American, but I know what works for me. And how I am now seems to work but now I want to try out this challenge of eating a week Paleo. My bile reflux is under control and I am not as gasy anymore with my current diet.

Paleo Food Pyramid

However, I still am a tad bloated so I want to see what this diet will do for me. Maybe it will do wonders. Maybe it will do nothing at all. But I am going to give a go. Oh and check out my meal planning for this week. Yes, I’ve been good. Just click the image to enlarge, will ya?

Looks Like Paleo Week Starts This Sunday!

Looks Like Paleo Week Starts This Sunday!

Question: Have you heard of the Paleo Diet? What’s your take on it? And have you heard any crazy information on soy and it’s “anti-nutrient” properties. Gee nutrition information seems endless.

I’ll just stick to what works and call it a day. (Note: Click images for their original source!)

 

Tags: , , , , , ,

LiveFit & “Nutella” Fudge Truffles

Casey over at Vegerita found my blog and introduced me to LiveFit! What is LiveFit? It’s a body building program by Jamie Eason. It’s broken down into three phases and lasts 12 weeks. I decided to give it a try because I am looking for a challenge and I wouldn’t mind a short worker.

The only struggle is the non-cardio business. I’m as much of a cardio junkie as I am a chocolate addict. Okay, maybe not as much, but you get the picture. So far I am on day three and I notice that I feel the intensity. I can’t wait to see how the rest of the workouts go.

You know I will be updating you on that for sure. If you want any information on it, check out the website and Casey’s blog too! Onto the eats. The program has a specific diet plan that you should follow. I decided to get a bit more strict on it. Here are my purchases;IMG_20130216_182113I got lentils from Trader Joe’s to try because I want to get in a good amount of protein and iron without having to eat meat. Meat has slipped into my diet here and there, but I don’t want it.IMG_20130216_193919I also got this brown rice protein powder by NutriBiotic to try.IMG_20130216_182124It smelled pretty good and I decided to make a protein pancake with it. It’s for work Monday, so I’ll let you know how it came out sometime Tuesday. IMG_20130216_191759Lastly, I made some truffles using the amaretto fudge truffle recipe. I subbed the almond butter for chocolate hazelnut butter, omitted the almond extract and “caramel sauce,” added 1/2 tbsp of non-dairy milk and filled it with crushed hazelnuts. So good and had a “Nutella” like taste.IMG_20130216_193833Now one thing I wanted to tell you guys about what I met up with a Personal Trainer from Planet Fitness. They offer free personal trainer training if you have the Black Card. He went around me with in the gym for an hour showing me what machines are good for what body parts and how to properly excises each muscle group. He also gave me my target heart rate (which is 166) and told me to do weights first.

Now normally I do cardio first but he said the first 20 mintues of your workout, you’re body is burning up glucose,  then it starts burning fat. So if you do 15-20 minutes weights then cardio, you will be burning fat during your cardio session. I always heard different things but after reading about LiveFit, I think that’s the point; Burn fat!

Question: Have you ever heard of LiveFit? What’s your current workout plan?

 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,

WIAW #39: My Dad’s Big 5-0

It was my dads 50th birthday last week. He sure doesn’t look it but like he always says “trust me, I feel it.” For this WIAW, I bring to you the eats I had on his birthday.IMG_20130207_194055Oh, and If you don’t know what WIAW is, check it out over at Peas and Crayons! feb wiawBreakfast was this mix of Chobani honey bee-nana, almond butter, maple drizzle and almonds. I could actually eat this all day…IMG_20130207_080558Snack? well I don’t know if coffee counts as a snack, but I added some Vega protein smoothie powder to it. I guess that makes it somewhat of a snack, hehe.IMG_20130207_111931Lunch was just an egg white omelette with spinach, I tried to keep it light. I then had another cup of coffee and protein cake. I was trying to keep it pretty light so I could stuff my face at dinner.IMG_20130207_151811We went to Texas De Brazil for my dad’s birthday. All you can eat Brazilian food.IMG_20130207_180709I ate this plate times three!  I had rice, black beans, cheese, mashed potatoes, cheese balls, the lot. IMG_20130207_181211They also had these fried bananas with cinnamon sugar. Oh my gosh!IMG_20130207_183247Dessert? Since I can’t have the cake (or the frosting really), I had the some frosting with vanilla ice cream. So yummy.IMG_20130207_151336Question: Have you ever been to Texas De Brazil? Or any Brazilian restaurant  I love Brazilian food, it’s seriously the best food I have ever had!

 

Tags: , , , , ,

WIAW #38: Look Familiar?

Okay, so I have been pretty much eating the same thing over and over. I’m in a horrible food rut, but I am not bored it with at all! I crave it every day and look forward to my same boring meals.

For this What I Ate Wednesday brought to you by Peas and Crayons, it’s going to be pretty much the same boring meals you saw last week. Okay, now I am just getting receptive. I’ll stop. I promise…wiawphotobuttonBreakfast? I decided to eat another breakfast cake with raisins, but this time I paired it with some “caramel fried” apples. Really super delicious

IMG_20130131_203301A little bit of coffee while working… IMG_20130205_122604Oh and this cappuccino truffle from Godiva is to die for!IMG_20130205_142001Lunch? Why yes I know, same cheesy egg cake with the brown rice wrap and spinach. It’s just so good and I haven’t gotten tired of it yet.Who says you can’t have a little chocolate?IMG_20130205_115740Lets just say, it was a coffee filled day. Had to fuel up for my trip ya know?IMG_20130206_131100 Right now I am eating some dinner. Well just a black bean and spinach wrap. I’m not too hungry.IMG_20130206_181843As for dessert, probably some yogurt, almond butter and trail mix. I feeling healthy tonight.

Question: Do you ever have those weeks where you have the same meal all the time? It’s been two of those weeks for me. But if it works, why knock it?

 

Tags: , , ,

Why Yes, I Am Planning!

Happy Monday my friends! This week is going to be a crazy one. When do I not say that? I guess that’s just a typical day in the world of Sabrina.

As the title says, I am planning for the week ahead! It terms of eats, it starts from yesterday and will end for Wednesday. Four days of the same eats isn’t bad at all.

Since I am going to NY for my dad’s birthday mid week and I don’t want to buy anything that will go bad. I probably won’t use it until Sunday. Here are the eats and please excuse the recycled pictures:

What’s on the menu?IMG_20130124_212059Breakfast: Cinnamon-Raisin Breakfast Cake
IMG_20130112_181025Snack: Light String Cheese w/ Raw Almonds & PearwrapLunch: Brown Rice Wrap w/ Spinach & Cheesy Egg CakeIMG_20130103_183130Snack: Stonyfield Blends (Low-Fat Vanilla)IMG_20130110_145611Dinner: Spinach Salad w/ Sunflower & Pumpkin Seeds, Almonds, Cheddar & Black Beans (use your imagination and remove the raisins and swap the eggs for black beans)cakeSnack: Protein Cake or Yogurt (or a bit of both, hehe)

Now what about workouts?

  • Sunday: Shoulders + Elliptical (20 minutes)
  • Monday: Total Body #2 + Jog (20 minutes)
  • Tuesday: Yoga [+ Cardio]
  • Wednesday: Lower Body + Arc (20 minutes)
  • Thursday: Rest Day
  • Friday: Yoga [+ Optional Cardio] or Total Body #1 + Jog (20 minutes)
  • Saturday: Active Rest Day

Question: What does this week look like for you? I hope y’all have a good week and stay tuned for a delicious cake recipe from yours truly this week!

 

Tags: , , , , , , ,

 
Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.

Join 75 other followers

%d bloggers like this: