Ever Ready: Meatless Monday

Monday, March 2, 2020

Meatless Monday

Research studies suggests that people are more open to trying healthy behaviors at the start of the week. Monday offers an opportunity to “reset” and get back on track after any lapses over the weekend. Consuming less red and processed meat and more plant-based foods such as vegetables, beans, soy, and nuts can offer many potential health benefits. Consider these two recipes

Start your day with Banana Mango Avocado Smoothie

Recipe comes from sallysbakingaddition.com

Cook's notes: Glowing Skin Smoothie recipe title caught my attention. The desert heat and wind do a number on your skin in the Southwest and I need to find ways ways to revitalize and hydrate my skin.
The frozen banana and avocado add thickness to the smoothie. The mango and pineapple sweeten things up and the coconut water adds a tropical flare. With the addition of kale or spinach this smoothie packs a HUGE nutrient punch. Coconut water is ideal since it is so hydrating for our bodies and skin. It is sold in most grocery stores and at Target and Walmart. You can substitute regular water,almond milk or your favorite juice. Try adding in 1/2 cup blueberries as they are another super food great for your skin!
Ingredients:

1/2 cup plain coconut water
2 frozen ripe bananas, previously peeled & sliced
1 cup chopped pineapple (frozen or fresh)
1 cup chopped mango (frozen or fresh)
2 cups spinach or kale
1/2 avocado, sliced
optional: 1 tablespoon ground flax or flaxseed oil

Directions:

A strong, powerful blender like Vitamix or Ninja works the best but since I am not on my home turf, a food processor worked fine.
Add all of the ingredients to the blender in the order listed. Blend for at least 3 minutes or until smooth. Scrape down the sides of the blender as needed. Add more coconut water if it's too thick.

Quinoa Enchilada Bake with Black Beans and Butternut Squash

https://sockfairies.blogspot.com/2015/01/quinoa-enchilada-bake-with-black-beans.html

Quinoa is a good gluten-free source of protein, iron, and fiber. It is a quick and flavorful way to get in a serving of whole grains. About the size of couscous pellets, quinoa cooks in about 20 minutes. The only special handling required with quinoa is to give it a good rinse before cooking; otherwise, the grains can be bitter.