Lemon Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies

I am pretty excited about these little guys. I love lemon everything, especially in the summer. This recipe is really simple to make using a food processor. These cookies make a great dessert or pair perfectly with a cup of coffee.  

Egg Labels - What Do They Really Mean?

There are so many different types of eggs to choose from at the store. Since eggs are such a nutrient powerhouse it's important the know what you're buying. It can be a little overwhelming and confusing. Here is a breakdown of the types of eggs available in most stores and what they really mean.

Homemade Coffee Creamer and Butter Coffee Recipe

Most store bought coffee creamers have a very long list of ingredients most of which are not going to help you get through your day feeling energetic and alert. Why add this commercial concoction to your cup of joe every morning? There are some other options that are delicious and also good for you.  I've been on my version of a "Bullet Proof" coffee kick for awhile (coffee mixed with coconut oil and grass-fed butter). Read more about bullet proof coffee here. 

Grilled Peach and Chicken Salad

 This time of year peaches are amazingly juicy. They become even more sweet and juicy when grilled. The bitterness of the arugula in this salad balances out the sweetness of the peaches. This is a great light summertime meal perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. 

Directions:

Season chicken breasts generously with sea salt and pepper. Heat grill to medium heat. Grill breasts for about 8-10 minutes on each side depending on thickness. 

While chicken is cooking mix mustard, vinegar, olive oil and water in a large bowl using a whisk. Cut peaches in half and remove the pits. Use coconut oil to coat peaches for grilling. 

Place peaches on grill for about 3 minutes on each side, until soft, but not mushy. 

When chicken is done let sit while mixing arugula in large bowl to coat in vinegar mixture. 
Cut chicken into strips and peaches into wedges. Plate arugula, chicken and peaches and toss as desired. 

Ingredients:

- 4 chicken breasts

- 5 ounces arugula

- 3 yellow peaches

- 1 Tbsp ground mustard (should be thick and grainy)

- 1 Tbsp white balsamic vinegar

-1 Tbsp olive oil

- 1 Tbsp water

- Sea salt

- Pepper

3 Ingredient Trail Mix ...and why I obsessively read food labels

If you take the time to look at the ingredients in most trail mix at the store you may be a little surprised. Trail mix is supposed to be a healthy on the go snack. Most trail mix has added sugar and highly processed oils. I started making my own trail mix with ingredients I love. It is so easy and cost effective.  I only use 3 ingredients - walnuts, dark chocolate and coconut. 

Here is the label from one of the most popular trail mix brands.

Planter's Nut and Chocolate Trail Mix

Ingredients: PEANUTS, CHOCOLATE CANDY PIECES [MILK CHOCOLATE (SUGAR, COCOA BUTTER, MILK, CHOCOLATE, LACTOSE, SOY LECITHIN--EMULSIFIER, VANILLIN--ARTIFICIAL FLAVOR), SUGAR, ARTIFICIAL COLOR (INCLUDES YELLOW 5 LAKE, YELLOW 6, BLUE 1 LAKE, RED 40 LAKE), GUM ARABIC, CORN SYRUP, CARNAUBA WAX, BEESWAX, CONFECTIONER'S GLAZE], RAISINS, ALMONDS, COTTONSEED OIL.

EWW... corn syrup, food dye AND cottonseed oil. This is why I read labels on EVERYTHING. It may take me a little longer in the grocery store, but it is definitely worth it. You never know what strange chemical or additive may be lurking in your food until you check all the ingredients.

If you make this trail mix the ingredient list will look something like this:

Walnuts, Coconut, Dark Chocolate (evaporated cane juice, natural chocolate liquor (non-alcoholic), non-dairy coconut butter) ...no processed crap! 



3 Ingredient Trail Mix

- 1 cup Walnuts
- 1/2 cup Unsweetened Shredded Coconut
- 1/3 cup Dark Chocolate Chunks (I recommend Enjoy Life chocolate chips)


Directions: 

Remember it's all about ingredient quality. Look for raw nuts that were not roasted in any gross processed oils. Make sure the shredded coconut does not have added sugar. Read labels on the dark chocolate chips. This is why I recommend the Enjoy Life brand. Most brands have soy and other sketchy ingredients. You can order Enjoy Life on Amazon if you don't find it in stores. 

To make: Combine all ingredients, keep in a sealed container or bag. For maximum freshness store in the refrigerator (this is not necessary). 
You can mix these to whatever ratio you like best. I am a huge coconut fan so I usually add a little more coconut.