Tag Archives: Health

The Easiest Ways to Boost Your Metabolism

Quite simply, metabolism refers to all chemical reactions in the body (the terms metabolism and metabolic rate are also used interchangeably). It’s basic science: the higher your metabolism is, the more calories you burn and the easier it is to lose weight. Conversely, if you have a slow or sluggish metabolism, you will likely feel low on energy, find yourself gaining weight despite your best efforts, and you might even struggle with depression or other mood disorders. Here are nine ways to boost your metabolism that you can start right away.

Don’t skimp on protein

While all foods raise your metabolic rate for about three hours after eating, protein raises it by up to 30%, compared to 5-10% with carbohydrates and 3% with fats, according to a 2014 study. Furthermore, protein is key to feeling full, therefore reducing cravings and overall calorie intake throughout the day. Strive to eat protein with every meal and snack.

Pretty woman eating bowl of salad at home in the living room

Drink green tea

Studies have shown that the simple act of drinking green tea can boost your metabolism by 5%, and burn more fat. Always opt for natural green, jasmine or oolong tea, and steer clear of canned or bottled versions that contain a long list of other ingredients (primarily sugar).

iced green tea
Image: Pixabay

Eat more spicy foods

Don’t like spicy? Well, maybe give it another shot. Capsaicin is a primary ingredient in hot peppers, and is known for its metabolism-boosting effects. One study even suggested that eating enough capsaicin could burn an extra 10 calories per meal.

spicy dish food
Image: Pixabay

Drink coffee

The news that coffee can boost your metabolism by up to 11% will probably make many coffee drinkers very happy. The leaner you are, the more coffee will likely boost your metabolism, and vice versa. Remember though, if you suffer from anxiety or insomnia, don’t overdo it.

hot coffee cappuccino
Image: Pixabay

Try interval training

Workout ruts and chronic cardio can wreak havoc on your weight loss plan, but high intensity interval training (HIIT) can seriously take it to the next level. Multiple studies have proven that short bursts of very intense exercise will burn more fat and increase your post-exercise metabolism much more than endurance cardio will. Instead of bee-lining it to the elliptical machine, try your gym’s Tabata class. You can also easily do HIIT at home, getting in a great workout in just 15 minutes.

tying shoes fitness exercise
Image: Pixabay

Drink cold water, but not with meals

Drinking water, period, will help to speed up your metabolic rate. One study even showed that drinking a half liter of water sped up children’s metabolism by up to 30% for an hour afterwards. Cold water might boost your calorie burning potential even more, but can also interfere with digestion if consumed with food. Keep your meal-time water to room temperature, but opt for icy cold any other time of day.

cold bottle water

 

Get up

Sounds obvious, but if you spend the bulk of your day sitting, your metabolism is suffering. Getting up every hour from your desk and walking around will not only burn more calories, but prevent you from developing some serious muscle imbalances (back pain, hunched shoulders, etc).

woman at work with tablet

 

Use coconut oil

Coconut oil contains medium chain fatty acids, which are known for their fat burning and metabolism boosting properties. Replace any vegetable oils you might be using (canola, soy, corn, etc) with coconut oil in cooking.

st lucia coconut pieces
Image: Pixabay

 

Get your beauty rest

Don’t roll your eyes at this one, as it is biologically nearly impossible to lose weight if you’re not sleeping enough. Lack of sleep takes a serious toll on your hormone levels, and in any battle against your hormones, you will not win. Studies show that lack of sleep is hugely related to obesity, due mainly to its metabolism-lowering effects.

sleeping woman city 

Whatever your goal, boosting your metabolism will raise your energy levels and support weight loss efforts. If you already do all of these things but still feel sluggish or like something just isn’t right, speak with your doctor.

High Protein Vegetarian Dinners for a Healthy Heart and Mind

Maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle can be onerous through record-breaking ice storms and Siberian-intensity windchill. Mid-winter blues can wreak havoc on our commitment to fitness and diet, ultimately undoing much of the payoff warm-weather workouts awarded us. Aside from self-driven exercise inspiration, making the effort to eat well during the dark months can make all the difference. There are a number of ways to keep yourself active this winter, including going out and dressing up, even in the bitter cold. Cooking warm, healthy meals is another way to keep yourself on track. These high protein vegetarian meals are high in calcium and protein, two essential energy-boosting nutrients. Swap another night of takeout for one of these rejuvenating recipes.

Nutty Quinoa Tofu Bowls

Serves 2

Protein: 43g

high protein vegetarian nutty tofu bowl

What you’ll need:

1/2 cup quinoa

2 teaspoons olive oil

1 cup broccoli florets

2 tablespoons peanut butter

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 small diced bell pepper

1/2 teaspoon grated ginger

4 slices extra firm tofu, baked

2 tablespoons roasted peanuts

1/2 teaspoon brown sugar

4 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon maple syrup

1 clove minced garlic

 

How it’s done:

Cook quinoa in water according to directions while heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add red pepper and cook until soft.

Set in a separate bowl and add broccoli to the skillet.

Cover and steam until broccoli is tender.

Combine broccoli and peppers in a separate bowl.

Mix peanut butter, lime juice, water, soy sauce, sugar, and ginger in a small bowl and set aside.

Mix soy sauce, syrup, olive oil, garlic, and pepper in a small baking dish.

Place tofu in the dish and let marinate for 30 minutes, flipping the tofu regularly.

Preheat oven to 400ºF.

Place marinated tofu on baking sheet and bake for 40 minutes, until edges are dark.

Top each quinoa bowl with two slices of tofu and chopped peanuts. Serve warm and enjoy!

 

Cashew Noodles with Broccoli

Serves 4

Protein: 26 grams

Cashew Noodles vegetarian

What you’ll need:

5 cups broccoli florets

4 cups enriched egg noodles

3 tablespoons vinaigrette of choice

1/2 cup roasted, unsalted cashews

 

How it’s done:

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add broccoli and cook until soft.

Set aside and return water to a boil.

Add noodles and cook through until soft. Drain well.

Put vinaigrette of choice, cashews, and 1/2 cup water into a blender and purée until smooth.

Return warm noodles to mixture and broccoli.

Cook over medium heat, tossing gently, until heated through.

Serve warm with tofu or other mixed vegetables if desired.

 

Zucchini Paneer with Chickpeas

Serves 4

Protein: 28 grams

Zucchini Paneer vegetarian

What you’ll need:

1 cup chopped tomatoes

4 medium cubed zucchinis

1/2 cup water

3 tablespoons grapeseed oil

2 tablespoons chopped ginger

1 chopped red onion

1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds

1 teaspoon turmeric

1 tablespoon garam masala

1 cup diced paneer

1/2 cup chopped cilantro

1 cup chickpeas

 

How it’s done:

Heat grapeseed oil in a large skillet.

Add onion, chopped ginger, and all spices.

Cook for three minutes. Add tomatoes, zucchini, and water.

Cook until zucchini is tender. Add garam masala and cover.

Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat and add remaining oil.

Fry paneer cubes until golden brown. Add to the zucchini and stir well.

Toss in cooked chickpeas and serve with rice of choice.

 

Mushroom and Black Bean Burger

Serves 4

Protein: 30 grams

Black Bean Burger vegetarian

What you’ll need:

2 cans seasoned black beans

1 cup sliced portabella mushrooms

1/4 cup vignette of choice

1 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup onion, grated

4 slices swiss cheese

4 tablespoons olive oil

4 whole wheat hamburger buns

1 cup spinach

1 large sliced tomato

1 egg

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

 

How it’s done:

Drain canned black beans and mash thoroughly.

Add bread crumbs, onion, egg, and chili powder to bean mixture.

Let sit for 5 minutes. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Make small patties from bean mixture and place the patties in the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, flipping regularly.

Place cheese on each patty, and continue cooking until burgers are heated through.

Toast buns until golden.

Place patties on buns and top with tomato, spinach, mushroom, and vinaigrette.

 

Spinach, Mushroom, and Ricotta Grilled Cheese

Serves 2

Protein: 25 grams

Grilled Cheese vegetarian

What you’ll need:

1/3 cup reduced-fat ricotta cheese

1/4 cup fresh spinach

1/2 cup mushroom of choice

1 tablespoon basil

1 clove garlic, crushed

1 tablespoon black pepper

4 slices sourdough bread

1 tablespoon reduced-fat butter

1/2 cup reduced-fat alfredo sauce

 

How it’s done:

Fry garlic in a small amount of olive oil over medium heat.

Remove from heat and add ricotta, spinach, mushroom, pepper, and basil to the garlic.

Mix well. Spread one side of each slice of bread with butter.

Divide the ricotta mixture in half and spread it on the unbuttered sides of two slices of bread.

Return the pan/skillet to the stove over medium heat and place the sandwiches in the pan.

Cook until cheese has melted and both sides are golden brown.

Sprinkle with extra seasoning and serve with Alfredo sauce.

Get in Fighting Shape at These 5 Boxing Gyms

Boxing isn’t just for professional fighters anymore, it’s become the latest go-to workout for your favorite celebs and supermodels. Studios are popping up all over the US and they feature multiple methods and systems to incorporate boxing into your fitness routine, regardless of your fitness level or expertise. Great for improving your hand-eye coordination, decreasing stress levels, and improving your cardiovascular health, boxing is also a great stress reliever. Here are some boxing gyms across the country to get you started.

 

Rumble Boxing

Rumble Boxing features a unique mix of boxing and strength training all in one class combining high intensity interval training (HIIT), strength training, metabolic conditioning, and cardio in each class.  The group-based fitness classes give a sense of community which means extra motivation to push through your workout. And music is a big part of any rumble class! Celebs like Kendall Jenner, Selena Gomez, and Justin Bieber have all been known to frequent Rumble boxing classes. Rumble currently has studios in both New York City and Los Angeles.

 

9round

Shannon and Heather Hudson, a couple from South Carolina who previously owned a Karate school, founded 9round in 2008. The mission behind 9round was to create an affordable workout that would allow busy parents (like themselves) to fit an amazing 30 minute workout into a tight schedule. By 2012, 9round had expanded to over 100 locations across the nation, and they now boast over 700 locations all over the world with more in development.

 

Impact Strong

 

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“You can’t hire someone else to do your push ups for you” -Jim Rohn

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Impact Strong features 30-minute-long kickboxing classes that will have your body burning fat for up to 48 hours after you’ve finished your workout. Classes are available for all levels of fitness, from beginners to advanced and if you have extra time in your day, Impact Strong also has a separate 30 minute HIIT workout class that can be taken before or after your Kickboxing class to amp up your results.  Impact Strong currently has gyms in Texas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Jersey, and Utah.

 

Title Boxing Club

 

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#WCW – @xo.healthy – Stiff jabs over stiff drinks any day of the week. 🥊🔥 — #boxing #TITLEBoxing #FightLikeAGirl

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Title Boxing Club features boxing and kickboxing classes committed to giving people of all ages, fitness levels, and abilities access to an empowering workout. These classes aren’t routine, making every class different and challenging. Each workout includes a warm up, rounds, active rest, and a core and cool-down session. Title Boxing Club has over 180 locations and is available all over the United States.

 

Everybody Fights

 

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Our love for boxing is real 🥊❤️ #everybodyfights @rachelg_photography @hloonan

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Everybody Fights was founded by George Foreman III, a professional boxer with a perfect 16-0 record who grew up in the World of Boxing alongside his father, legendary two-time heavyweight champion George Foreman Sr. George opened the first Everybody Fights location in Boston in 2014 and now has locations in New York, Boston, Kentucky, and Chicago (a location in Philadelphia will be opening in 2019).

Asian-Inspired Dishes You Can Cook at Home

Not only is cooking at home healthier (sayonara, excess salt), but it’s wallet-friendly too, and more than a few recipes are easy to recreate with the help from some basic ingredients. Asian spices are aromatic and taste wonderful but every additional teaspoon of flavor can be overwhelming. When cooked at home, we can tweak recipes to our personal tastes and preferences. You only need some spices, vegetables, rice, noodles, and protein. Some of the usual suspects in Asian-inspired dishes include coconut milk, ginger, chili, peanut, and lemongrass, to make endless possibilities and combinations. Here are a few of my favorites.

 

Coconut Curry Chicken

asian dishes 5

What You’ll Need:

Boneless, skinless chicken breast
Vegetable oil
Curry powder
Onion
Garlic, crushed
Coconut milk
Diced tomato
Tomato sauce
3 tablespoons sugar
Salt and pepper for flavor

 

Tomatoes, curry, and coconut blend together perfectly to create a semi-spicy and fragrant sauce for this curry recipe. Although the step-by-step recipe is meant for the stove top, laziness got the best of me and I dumped everything into my crockpot (after cooking the chicken first!) and let it slow cook for double the time. White rice is a perfect accompaniment but it also worked well with fresh noodles.

 

Full recipe: https://salu-salo.com/coconut-curry-chicken/

 

Tom Yum Soup

asian dishes 4

What You’ll Need:

Shrimp
Tomatoes
Limes
Thai chilies
Mushrooms
Lemongrass
Kaffir lime leaves
Galangal root
Fish sauce
Sugar: 1 teaspoon

 

Yum is right. Hailing from Thailand, Tom Yum Soup is composed of a spicy, citrus broth filled with herbs, vegetables, and shrimp. Make the broth more flavorful by starting with a base of seafood broth or half broth and half water (we won’t tell!).

 

Full recipe: https://www.eatingthaifood.com/easy-thai-tom-yum-soup-recipe-sour-spicy-soup/

 

Stir-Fry Sauce

asian dishes 4

What You’ll Need:

Soy sauce
Sugar
Sesame oil
Rice wine or sherry
Oyster sauce
Ground pepper
Cornstarch

Thanks to Chinese culture, Westerners have adopted the super easy, tasty, and convenient way to get more vegetables and lean protein in our diets by stir-frying. Use up any old veggies, but you can make your recipe more special by including bamboo shoots, water chestnuts, or other ingredients typical in Asian cuisine. Cook the protein for a few minutes on high heat first, add the vegetables and cook for a few more minutes before adding the sauce. Here is an easy sauce recipe that will take your dish from good to great and only requires whisking the ingredients together before using or storing.

 

Full Recipe: http://jeanetteshealthyliving.com/the-best-stir-fry-sauce-recipe/

Poke Bowl

asian dishes 2

What You’ll Need:

Soy sauce
Sesame oil
Grated, fresh ginger root
Green onions
Roasted macadamia nuts
Dried seaweed
Red pepper flakes
Kosher salt

 

The spices used in this raw fish salad originate from Asian countries. Hailing from Hawaii, poke is traditionally made with cubed chunks of raw tuna, seaweed, salt, nuts, soy sauce and sesame oil. Japanese spices are commonly used but can be substituted with Korean spices for a slightly different final product (that pairs nicely with a bit of kimchi).

 

Full Recipe: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/254946/chef-johns-hawaiian-style-ahi-poke/

Spring Rolls

asian-inspired dishes

What You’ll Need:

Shrimp, deveined
Cucumber
Carrots
Buckwheat or Rice noodles
Iceberg lettuce
Fresh cilantro
Fresh mint
Avocado oil
Soy sauce
Rice paper wraps
salt
Plain peanut butter
Chili garlic paste
Cornstarch

Originally made in China and called a “spring” roll because they were made for Spring festivals using in-season vegetables, they are now a favorite dish across the continent served year-round and filled with a plethora of ingredients. This recipe is inspired by Vietnamese cuisine and uses peanut butter in the dipping sauce.

Full Recipe: https://www.watchwhatueat.com/vietnamese-healthy-spring-rolls/

How Much Protein Do You Actually Need?

Protein may be the Beyonce of nutrition. Composed of chain-forming molecules called amino acids, protein forms tissue, muscles, organs, enzymes, collagen, and many important hormones; in short, proteins are what make us who we are.

Ironically, of the three macronutrients that make up our diets (including carbohydrates and fats), proteins should only account for 10-30% of our daily requirements, and those wanting to increase muscle mass still only need as much as 35%.

Our bodies already create many of the amino acids that we need, but the others, called essential amino acids, are obtained through our diet. And since proteins cannot be stored, we need to eat the right quantity and quality daily. But how much is enough? What happens when we get too much or too little? And, is it possible to meet our daily protein requirements while following vegetarian or vegan lifestyles?

 

How much protein do we need?

The average person only needs about 0.36 grams of protein per pound of body weight. Meaning, a 130-pound person who rarely works out only needs an average of 46.8 grams of protein per day. On the other hand, protein is essential in muscle-building and repair and athletes require more than the average person. High-intensity athletes are encouraged to eat between 0.5 – 0.8 grams of protein per pound while bodybuilders may require a little more still.

how much protein 1

To put the quantities into perspective, 100 grams of turkey breast yields 22 grams of protein while 1 egg and 1 ounce of dry roasted almonds each provide 6 grams.

After some time, regularly eating more protein may lead to weight loss because it helps burn fat, but overconsumption can also have the opposite effect and lead to weight gain. Other side effects of too much protein include bad breath, constipation, diarrhea, organ failure, and even cancer. Too little protein can lead to unhealthy muscle and weight loss, fatigue, and a weakened immune system.

 

How can you be sure you’re getting enough protein in your diet?

In a perfect world, we wouldn’t need to think about this question because we would meet our nutritional requirements with a well-rounded diet. In reality, however, planning meals can be difficult amid pursuing successful careers, family obligations, and hobbies. MyFitnessPal is an app that can record the carbohydrates, fats, and proteins consumed in meals. Logging in regularly can help be more mindful of nutritional intake.

how much protein 2

Animal meat and dairy aren’t the only ways to eat more protein. Those on a vegetarian or vegan diet can get a delicious boost with shakes since protein powders come in a variety of ingredients and flavors. Healthy and satisfying vegetarian dishes are possible with a few simple pantry staples like tofu, beans, and nuts. Soups are another guilt-free way to create satisfying meals filled with protein.

Protein Shakes that Actually Taste Good

It’s no secret that a diet high in healthy, lean protein helps maintain muscle mass and protects the body’s immune system, keeping us stronger and full of energy to tackle life’s demands. In addition to keeping our metabolism high-functioning and our mood stabilized, our hair and nails are primarily comprised of proteins, further emphasizing the power of the macronutrient.

Protein powder, in particular, is an excellent source of protein for those on a vegetarian or vegan diet, or who have trouble sustaining an adequate protein intake. In fact, women who drink protein shakes are more likely to lose weight and gain muscle than women who don’t. The Food and Drug Administration recommends 45 to 50 grams of protein a day for women who adhere to a 2,000- calorie diet, which is a simple goal with the assistance of protein shakes.

There are dozens of brands and types of protein powder on the market. From soy-based to whey, there’s an option for everyone. Deciding which protein powder is best for your lifestyle requires you to consider your budget and dietary restrictions. While whey protein is the most common and affordable, soy, hemp, and vegan blends may better suit your way of life. Many of these recipes include a particular type of powder, but can be substituted with a more suitable type. If you’re invested in the Fitspo life, protein shakes are a must. If you’re just trying to get in shape for an upcoming trip, we’ve got you covered too. Check out these recipes and get motivated to try your own.

 

Dark Peppermint Protein Shake

27 grams of protein

cocoa protein shake

What you’ll need:

1 scoop Designer Whey Gourmet Chocolate Protein Powder

1 large banana

1 cup almond milk of choice

2 tablespoons cocoa powder of choice

1/3 teaspoon peppermint extract

 

How it’s done:

Blend all ingredients in blender until smooth. Add three ice cubes and serve with nonfat whipped topping if desired.

 

Coffee Lovers’ Protein Shake

25 grams of protein

coffee protein shake

What you’ll need:

8 ounces non-dairy milk of choice

1.5 scoops Muscle Milk Protein Powder, Vanilla

1/2 cup black coffee of your choice

1 teaspoon cocoa powder of choice

 

How it’s done:

Brew cup of black coffee. Blend until smooth and toss in ice for a refreshing pick-me-up.

 

Coconut Cream Pie Protein Shake

Protein content varies based on protein powder

coconut protein shake

What you’ll need:

1 frozen banana

3/4 cup coconut water

1 scoop no added sugar vanilla protein powder of choice

1 tablespoon coconut oil

2 tablespoons unsweetened coconut flakes

 

How it’s done:

Blend until smooth with ice. Top with coconut cream and flakes if desired.

 

Strawberry Surprise Protein Shake

24 grams of protein

strawberry protein shake

What you’ll need:

1/2 cup vanilla-flavored almond milk

1/2 cup strawberry flavored Greek yogurt

1 scoop Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder, Vanilla

1 teaspoon honey

1/2 cup frozen strawberries

 

How it’s done:

Blend all ingredients and serve with ice. Top with berries of your choice.

 

Matcha Madness Protein Shake

30 + grams of protein

matcha green tea protein shake

What you’ll need:

1 cup sweetened almond milk

1 teaspoon premium Matcha green tea of your choice

1 cup honeydew

1 scoop Vega Protein & Greens Vanilla Protein Powder

 

How it’s done:

Blend all ingredients for up to a minute to be sure Matcha has blended evenly. Serve with ice.

8 Healthy Ginger Recipes to Fire Up Your Diet

Knobby and sometimes intimidating, ginger can fire up your diet and your central nervous system, boosting your metabolism by as much as 20 percent. Once peeled and grated, ginger also can easily be thrown into various sauces, glazes, and marinades: soothing morning sickness, reducing exercise-induced muscle pain, relieving chronic indigestion, lowering blood sugar, and suppressing the growth of cancer cells.

Part of the holy trinity of Asian cooking, if you really enjoy the burn of fresh ginger and want even more, dehydrate it—this causes the spice level to double. Can’t take the heat? “Cut the ginger into coins to perfume a dish with a light ginger flavor with little-to-no burn,” says Hali Bey Ramdene, Kitchn’s Food Director. You can store unpeeled ginger wrapped in plastic in your fridge for three weeks or in your freezer for six months. Need to store peeled or cut chunks? Freeze the nubs or submerge them in vodka.

Tangy freshness, light spiciness, warmth, and mellow sweetness: here are 8 recipes that’ll deliver a fiery punch to your dinner plate.

 

Vegan Carrot-Ginger Soup

ginger recipes
Photo courtesy of Lydia Walshin

What you need:

  • Olive oil
  • Chopped onion
  • Roughly-chopped carrots
  • Grated ginger
  • Thinly-sliced garlic
  • Sweet curry powder
  • Ground coriander
  • Long-grain white, brown, or basmati rice
  • Orange juice
  • Agave nectar
  • Kosher salt
  • Fresh black pepper
  • Pumpkin seeds or chopped flat-leaf parsley for garnish

Pureéd to silky smoothness, Soupchick’s carrot-ginger soup is a mix of spicy and bright ginger root, garden-fresh carrots, and summer citrus topped with crunchy pumpkin seeds. Vegan and gluten-free, with nutty coriander, mild sweet curry powder, and agave nectar—an all-natural sweetener that’s one and a half times sweeter than sugar—will tickle your roughly 10,000 taste buds.

 

Ginger Pear Smoothie

ginger recipes
Photo courtesy of Silk/Danon North America

What you’ll need:

  • Sliced pear
  • Grated ginger
  • A chopped and frozen banana
  • Cinnamon
  • Ground flax
  • Vanilla almond, soy, or coconut milk

Power through your workday with Silk’s ginger pear smoothie. A blend of potassium-rich bananas, antioxidant-packed pears, inflammation-busting ginger, and dairy-free almond milk, this five-minute, 230-calorie smoothie will help you keep your cool.

 

Instant Pot Korean Beef Tacos

Korean-Beef-Tacos_TasteofYum
Photo courtesy of Jenna Arend

What you’ll need:

For the Korean beef

  • Canned or fresh pears
  • Fresh ginger
  • Garlic cloves
  • Soy sauce
  • Brown sugar
  • Sesame oil
  • Top sirloin or chuck roast

For the tacos:

  • Chopped cilantro
  • Chopped peanuts
  • Sriracha mayo or yum yum sauce
  • Flour or corn tortillas
  • Kimchi or coleslaw

Fire-eaters, if you can’t beat the heat, join it. Straight out of an instant pot, Pinch of Yum’s food-truck, fusion-style tacos are like edible heatwaves. Gingery, garlicky, melt-in-your-mouth beef is piled onto bendy, pillow-soft tortillas and topped with chopped peanuts, sriracha mayo, and kimchi—a hot and spicy Korean staple made from fermented veggies.

 

Coconut Ginger Sweet Potato Casserole

ginger recipes
Photo courtesy of Diana Johnson

What you’ll need:

  • Sweet potatoes
  • Grated ginger
  • Coconut milk
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Orange zest
  • Orange juice
  • Chopped pecans
  • Chopped candied ginger

While sweet potatoes may have honeyed flavors and velvety textures, they’re not potatoes or yams. They’re actually part of the morning glory family. What’s inside of these gorgeous orange root tubers? Vitamin A, manganese, calcium, fiber, and vitamin C. All the more reason not to confine these root veggies to Thanksgiving day —where they’re topped with cornflakes, pecans, brown sugar, and gooey marshmallows. Eating Richly’s coconut ginger sweet potato casserole features coconut milk, orange juice, chopped pecans, ground cinnamon, and candied ginger that’s at home on any plate at any time of the year.

 

Asian-Style Garlic Ginger Chicken Wings

What you’ll need:

  • Chicken wings
  • 7up regular, ginger ale, club soda, or sparkling wine
  • Soy sauce
  • Sesame oil
  • Grated garlic
  • Grated ginger
  • Sea salt
  • Diced scallions
  • Finely-chopped cilantro

Up your chicken wing game with Dennis Littley’s garlic ginger chicken wing recipe. The finger-lickin’-good chicken is marinated in 7up—Littley’s favorite mixer and childhood friend—for half an hour. Soy sauce, sesame oil, red pepper, grated ginger, and grated garlic are roundhouse kicks to your tongue.

 

Homemade Gingerbread Ice Cream

ginger recipes
Photo courtesy of Sue Moran

 What you’ll need:

  • Heavy cream
  • Low-fat milk
  • Sugar
  • Ground ginger
  • Cinnamon
  • Allspice
  • Ground cloves
  • Grated nutmeg
  • Molasses

Beat the heat with The View From the Great Island’s homemade ginger ice cream.   A simple mix of heavy cream, low-fat milk, sugar, molasses, and ground ginger with just a touch of vanilla, its fiery flavor will catapult your taste buds into the magic of Christmastime.

 

Grilled Eggplant with Ginger Dressing

ginger recipes
Photo courtesy of Sarah Gory

What you’ll need:

  • Japanese eggplants
  • Spring onions
  • Fresh ginger
  • Sesame oil
  • Mirin
  • Tamari or soy sauce
  • Rice wine vinegar
  • Sesame seeds
  • Bird’s eye chilies
  • Extra-virgin olive oil
  • Coconut rice

Fire up the grill and your flavor palate. Highgate Hill Kitchen’s Japanese eggplants are cut lengthways, coated with olive oil, and charred for 15 minutes until creamy and tender. Then they’re sprinkled with a flaming-hot ginger sauce and placed on a bed of cooling coconut rice—which is prepared by soaking white rice in coconut milk or cooking it with coconut flakes. Sesame seeds, spring onions, and bird’s eye chilies top this dish off, adding crunch and a rainbow of colors.

 

Asian Pork Meatballs

ginger recipe
Photo courtesy of Colleen Kennedy

What you’ll need:

For the meatballs:

  • Ground pork
  • Minced sweet or red onion
  • Minced garlic
  • Sesame oil
  • Kosher salt and pepper

For the ginger garlic sauce:

  • Sesame oil
  • Minced garlic
  • Minced ginger
  • Red wine vinegar
  • Honey
  • Chili with garlic sauce
  • Cornstarch
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Here’s your go-to, foolproof, Asian-style meatball recipe that you’ll never want to be without. Souffle Bombay’s pork meatballs are stuffed with minced red onion, garlic, and ginger. After being fried in olive oil until golden brown, they’re baked on a sheet pan and slathered in a ginger-honey sauce that has notes of garlic and chili.

Simple Zucchini Noodle Recipes to Try Right Now

Whether you’re a health-conscious fitness junkie, or adhering to a vegan lifestyle, zucchini noodles are a lifesaver. Zoodles (zucchini noodles) effectively cut carbs out of traditional pasta dishes and add a good source of protein instead. Zucchini and squash are excellent sources of Vitamin A, C, and B6, and provide the essential dietary fiber our routines often lack. There are a variety of options for vegetable spiralizers on the market right now that allow you to duplicate these dishes with ease, especially smaller, handheld gadgets that require less commitment in the kitchen. Here are a few recipes to get you started.

 

Greek Zoodle Salad

greek zucchini noodles

Time: 15 minutes

Serves: 2

What you’ll need:

2 large zucchinis

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

½ cup pitted black or green olives

2 ounces low fat crumbled feta cheese

How it’s done:

Mix lemon juice, vinegar, and olive oil and set aside. Using a vegetable spiralizer, cut the zucchini into noodles. Combine zucchini noodles, tomatoes, olives, feta, and dressing until coated evenly. Serve chilled.

 

Zoodles Pad Thai

thai zucchini noodles

Time: 30 minutes

Serves: 2

What you’ll need:

2 large zucchinis

2 tablespoons fish sauce

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 lime

1 scrambled egg

1/4 tablespoon cayenne pepper

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup chopped mushroom

1 cup extra firm tofu (or chicken if you prefer)

1/2 cup peanuts

How it’s done:

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add tofu or chicken and sauté until contents color and are almost completely cooked. Add cooked scrambled egg to mixture. Stir in the garlic. Reduce heat and add zoodles, sauces and peanuts. Combine all until fully cooked. Add a dash of lime juice for taste.

 

Sesame Zoodles

tofu sesame zucchini noodles

Time: 20 minutes

Serves: 3

What you’ll need:

2 cloves minced garlic

2 tablespoons sesame oil

4 medium zucchinis

¼ cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter

2 tablespoons sesame seeds

How it’s done:

Mix sesame oil, garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, and peanut butter in small bowl. Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add zoodles and sauté until slightly softened. Drain zoodles and toss in dressing and sesame seeds. Serve lukewarm.

 

Zoodle Marinara

marinara zucchini noodles

Time: 15 minutes

Serves: 2

What you’ll need:

2 medium zucchinis

2 ripe tomatoes, chopped

8 ounces tomato paste

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons parmesan cheese

1 clove diced garlic

How it’s done:

Blend tomatoes, paste, garlic, and vinegar in a blender until smooth. Heat in small pan on low heat and stir in zoodles. Top with parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm.

 

Peanut Butter Zoodles

peanut zucchini noodles

Time: 30 minutes

Serves: 1-2

What you’ll need:

3 small zucchinis

1/2 bell pepper

1/2 tablespoon soy sauce

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter

1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

How it’s done:

Toss zoodles and peppers in a small bowl and set aside. In a separate bowl, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger with a tablespoon of water. Combine both bowls in medium skillet until fully cooked. Serve warm.

9 Meal Kits Made For Millennials

We get it. As much as you like the idea of cooking a fresh, homemade meal, after a busy day the very thought of setting foot in the supermarket, trying to decide what to make, and actually making said dinner is enough to make you skip it altogether for a glass of wine and a bowl of popcorn. Been there, done that. Those days were made for meal kits.

Whether you want a quick and simple weeknight dinner, want to try something gluten free, or simply want farm fresh ingredients delivered to your door, there’s a meal kit service made for you. Here are nine we think are worth your time – dinner is officially served.

If You’re Just Getting Started With Meal Kits

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the meal kit options out there you can’t go wrong with the classics. Blue Apron and HelloFresh are two of the most well-known and most popular of meal kits. Prices for each start at $8.74 per meal.

With Blue Apron you can choose from two to four recipes per week for either two people or a family plan and you can even order wine to pair with your meal.

HelloFresh lets you choose from several different types of plans including a vegetarian plan and you can choose the number of recipes you want to use each.

BlueApron_Box_01

For Indian Food

Craving authentic Indian food? Saffron Fix has you covered. You can subscribe to their meal kit which will give you either two or three recipes (each designed to serve two people per recipe) every other week. Or, you can shop for ingredients that will help you make your own Indian cuisine inspired dishes, such as tacos or burgers. Boxes start at $49.95.

For Your Sweet Tooth

A meal isn’t a meal without dessert. Enter Red Velvet NYC, the dessert version of a meal kit. Shipping nationwide, you can sign up for a subscription or order à la carte. Each box comes with pre-measured ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes. Boxes start at $22.

*Featured image courtesy of Red Velvet NYC

The Meal Kit For When You Don’t Want To Cook

Freshly isn’t really a meal kit. Yes, it’s a subscription-based service but the meals come fully-prepared to your door. Read: no planning, no prep work and no cooking. Prices start at $8.99 per meal or $49.99 per week with the price per meal decreasing based on the number of meals you purchase. The meals come already cooked, you simply heat them up normally in about 3 minutes. And everything comes fresh, not frozen.

The Meal Kit for Budding Chefs

Those that know their way around a kitchen and want to cook like their favorite celebrity chef will love Chef’D. Admittedly, the service can be a bit overwhelming. They have more than 900 different meals, but you can order à la carte or through a subscription, and the search function of the website makes choosing a snap. Chef’D partners with brands and chefs to create the recipes, so you can cook your favorite chef’s favorite recipe. Each box comes with the recipe, ingredients, and notes on flavor profiles.

chefd meal delivery

If You’re Gluten Free

Most meal kits weren’t made for those with dietary restrictions and those that are tend to get pretty pricey. Mom’s Place Gluten Free is one of the exceptions. Choose from mixes for dinners, breakfasts, desserts, and more. All of the food is gluten free, non-GMO, and contains no preservatives. Plus, there’s no subscription. Simply order what you want, when you want it.

Mom's Place Gluten Free
Photo courtesy of Mom’s Place Gluten Free

 

For Your Four-Legged Best Friend

Meal kits are no longer just for people. Farmer’s Dog is a delivery service for your pooch. You fill out a questionnaire about your dog, including age, personality traits, and more (it takes a maximum of 5 minutes) and then you’ll receive a recommendation for one of Farmer’s Dog’s  house made dog foods.

For Farm Fresh Produce

Have the farmers market come to your door. Farmbox Direct is a delivery kit for people that love to cook but don’t love shopping for food. It delivers vegetables and fruits directly from farmers markets to you.  You can choose to receive boxes weekly and even customize your delivery schedule months ahead of time. Each box can be customized to accommodate allergies or preferences such as all vegetables one week or all fruit the next. Not sure what to make? Their website has plenty of ideas. Boxes start at $41.95.

How to Maximize Your Massage Benefits

We can all agree that everyone loves a good massage. Who doesn’t like relaxation, pain and stress relief, and overall well-being? However, with so many options out there, choosing the right one can feel a bit like ordering Chinese takeout.

That’s where I come in. Who am I? Just your friendly neighborhood massage therapist, here to break it down for you.

Types of Massage

On the regular line up: Deep Tissue & Swedish Massage (also called Relaxation). These are mostly just levels of pressure. “Deep” means more pressure and more focus on problem areas. “Swedish” means light pressure and a more general, full-body approach.

If it’s available, I always recommend Integrative Massage (sometimes called Therapeutic Massage). This means that a combination of techniques are going to be used to treat you, rather than sticking to just one. This doesn’t mean it won’t be relaxing, but it will be more specific to your pain and dysfunction.

If you’re an athlete of any sort, say, a weightlifter, cyclist, horseback rider, or are training for your first marathon, you’d definitely benefit most from either Sports Massage or Therapeutic. Sports Massage will focus on muscles and movements specific to your sport and can even be tailored for before or after an actual event.

massage 2

Before and During Your Session

The absolute best way to get the massage that’s right for you is to communicate with your massage therapist. Give us a quick rundown of what you’d like us to focus on before the session.

massage

Here’s the most important part, though: during the massage, let us know if you’d like us to change something that we’re doing. If you tell us right away that the pressure is too deep, or not firm enough, we can adjust and make sure the rest of your massage is awesome.

Body cues can only tell us so much. People may feel like we’ll be offended if you say something, but a good therapist won’t mind.

It’s your massage and we want it to be what you want and need. Massage therapists are known for being intuitive, but as it turns out, we can’t read your mind as well as we can your muscles.

Other Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Massage

1. Get massaged frequently. This isn’t a ploy to make more money. You wouldn’t exercise once a year and expect to see lasting results.

2. Do your homework. We might give you stretches or exercises for you to do on your own time. These are to enhance the massage benefits and help maintain what we’ve worked on. Try to add them into your daily routine, that way you don’t have to think about doing them. Maybe while you’re on your coffee break, after your workout, or while you’re dancing in front of the mirror planning your outfit for the day; whatever works for you.

3. Drink water. There’s a reason we offer you a drink immediately after a massage. Massage moves cell waste through your body faster and water helps flush it out. You’ll also have a higher chance of being sore and fatigued after a massage if you’re dehydrated, similar to after a workout.

4. Find a therapist that’s compatible with you. Recommendations are great, but remember that everyone likes and needs different things and therapists have different styles. The therapist that your best friend loves might not always be the right therapist for you. Also, don’t feel bad if you want to try a different therapist. Personally, I see a few depending on what type of massage I want that day.

To wrap it all up in an expensive sheet with a swan shaped towel on top: Get massaged often. Make sure you’re getting the type of massage that will be the most beneficial for you. And don’t forget to tip your therapist. 🙂