Ari, Author at Ari's Menu

“Nutella” Granola {vegan + gluten-free}

May 7, 2013 · by Ari ·

Once upon a time, I discovered the peanut butter & Nutella sandwich. Then, I discovered the Nutella + spoon combination. And sometimes the spoon never even came to join the party. Shameless.

I can’t even have Nutella in the house these days. It’s just too tempting. Occasionally, I’ll buy it for a recipe (and then eat my oatmeal out of the empty jar and feel like I’ve died and gone to heaven), but I think it’s about time that I get to eat chocolate hazelnutty goodness for breakfast every single day. Does that not just sound like perfection?

The best part? You don’t even have to buy Nutella for this recipe, but the taste is uncanny. I took one bite after it finished cooking and quickly exclaimed “It tastes like NUTELLA!!!” Just simple granola loaded with hazelnuts with some cocoa powder added to the mix. It is not overpoweringly sweet, and it doesn’t taste like dessert. I think the sweetness is perfect, but if you want a sweeter granola, you can absolutely add some extra brown sugar, or honey, or agave.

I also discovered the secret to the biggest, fattest granola clusters–check those monsters out!! I’m always looking for the big, chunky clusters, and this time I got it right. I did not stir this granola once while it cooked. I just let it do it’s thing, flipped it around half way through, and ya know what? Everything cooked evenly, nothing burned, and I had granola clusters the size of my hand! What??? Now the problem is not eating those clusters every time I step into the pantry. It’s kind of a problem…

“Nutella” Granola

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour, 45 minutes

Yield: Approx 10 cups

Serving Size: 1/2 cup

“Nutella” Granola

Simple and easy chocolate hazelnut granola tastes remarkably like Nutella! The big clusters and bold flavors are totally addicting and will have you constantly reaching back for more.

Ingredients

5 cups rolled oats (use gluten-free if that’s important to you)
2 cups hazelnuts, roughly chopped
1 cup slivered almonds
heavy pinch sea salt
3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup honey or agave
2/3 cup cocoa powder (I used Hershey's special dark)
2 tbsp coconut oil

Instructions

Preheat oven to 300. In a very large bowl, mix together the oats, nuts and salt.
In a small saucepan, warm the applesauce, brown sugar, honey/agave, cocoa powder and coconut oil until well combined, whisking constantly. Add the applesauce mixture into the dry ingredients and toss to combine. Evenly divide granola in an even layer between two large baking sheets.
Bake until browned and crispy, about 50 minutes-1 hour, turning half way through.
Cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature. The granola will stay fresh for at least one month. I've never made a batch last any longer than that, but it's still great a month in and probably for longer.

Notes

If you'd like, you may gently stir the granola every 20 minutes while cooking. This will lead to less clusters and a finer granola. I prefer to be able to break the clusters up myself afterwards, but if you like a finer granola, then stirring will help.

https://arismenu.com/nutella-granola-vegan-gluten-free/

Drink & Dish: Blueberry Pancakes {with video!}

May 5, 2013 · by Ari ·

I know that no one is *perfect*, but I’d have to say my mom is pretty darn close. So today, rather than tell you about how awesome the pancakes are (they are awesome, and make sure you check out the video at the end for all my pancake secrets!), I have compiled a list of a few of the many reasons I love my mom.

1. My mom is the best listener. Any time I have a problem, she says all the right things. I can call her at any time of day and I know I can count on her to be my confidant, and give me A+ advice. She is a social worker, so in addition to her 28 years (gross, I’m old) of experience, she’s also legitimately educated in advice giving and people skills.

2. She is hilarious and totally weird. When I was little, she would do this weird clap-in-patterns thing. I seriously don’t know how else to even explain it, but I was always so embarrassed. Now I see all my weird little quirks, and realize how alike we are. I appreciate that she taught me to be silly, and to be myself. Now I love all of her little oddities. They make her unique, and she wouldn’t be my mom without them.

3. She is my biggest cheerleader, and also my biggest advocate. I love the positive support and encouragement I get from my mom, but it is the times when I see her stand up and fight for me that I am taken aback. My mom, rarely angry, occasionally turns into a real mama bear, and I can see her fight to protect me. I don’t care how old I am, I will always appreciate feeling protected, and I will also always need to hear her tell me “Good job. I’m proud of you.”

4. She is the most patient woman I have ever met. It doesn’t run in the family. I simultaneously admire, and am in awe of her patience. You know when you want to grow up and be just like your mom? Yeah, I still feel that way, and I keep hoping one day it will happen.

There are a million more things I could say, but I’ll try not to make this a novel. Check out the latest episode of Drink & Dish for my pancake secrets, Nicole’s amazing Blackberry Wine Cooler (check out the recipe–they are AWESOME!), and our favorite memories with our moms.

What is your favorite thing/memory about/with your mom?

Whole Wheat Blueberry Pancakes

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield: 12 pancakes

Serving Size: 2 pancakes

Whole Wheat Blueberry Pancakes

Perfectly fluffy whole wheat and vegan blueberry pancakes are perfect for any brunch occasion!

Ingredients

2 tbsp milled flax seed
6 tbsp water
2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp baking soda
dash salt
2-3 tbsp brown sugar*
2 cups unsweetened almond milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup fresh blueberries

Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together flax seed and water. Let stand for 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and brown sugar. Gently mix in flax mixture, almond milk, and vanilla, stirring until just combined, then fold in blueberries. Let stand for 10 minutes.
Preheat griddle or large pan over medium-low heat, and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Pour 1/4 cup batter for each pancake. Cook until top forms small bubbles and bottom is golden brown, about 5 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until golden.

Notes

*I used 2 tbsp brown sugar, but you can easily use 3 if you like your pancakes on the sweeter side.

https://arismenu.com/drink-dish-blueberry-pancakes/

Sun-dried Tomato & Basil White Bean Burgers {vegan + gluten-free}

May 1, 2013 · by Ari ·

Healthy, vegan, gluten-free and full of flavor, these sun-dried tomato & basil white bean burgers taste like pizza in a burger! So delicious even meat eaters will crave them.

You guys, it is suddenly HOT here in Phoenix. Like, over 100* and I’m wondering what the H happened to spring, and I want a do-over kind of hot. Gross.

Somehow I have all these fond memories of last summer feeling all “I love summer! Summer is awesome!” mixed in with “Why did I ever make the CHOICE to run when it is 100* at 5am?!?! *&$#*&!!!”

Oh yeah, it’s because summer means swimming and barbecuing and an excuse to eat burgers every single night while you lounge by the pool with a margarita in hand. Now that sounds like something I remember loving.

Well it’s only the beginning of May, and since the temps began to sore, I have made an embarrassing amount of burgers. Like, you will probably get tired of my 9 billion burger recipes by mid June, but I just can’t stop.

I end up making a lot of meat for dinner because, well, I live with a boy, and most boys love meat. Most boys probably also don’t prefer being called “boys” when they over over 30 years old, but that’s neither here nor there… Anyway, my husband is so lucky because I make him lots of meat, but every now and then I fool him by saying I’m making “burgers” and then I serve him something like this. And he can’t lie about how much he loves it because his plate is clean in about 4 seconds.

I actually made these for 3 of my favorite meat lovin’ boys to rave reviews! It almost tastes like pizza in a burger. The unmistakable sun-dried tomatoes give tons of flavor to the beans, and the basil adds a perfectly light freshness. I actually thought these were going to be a disaster. I kept staring at them thinking “They look soooo dry! What did I do wrong???” But looks can be deceiving because the texture was spot on–slightly crispy on the outside, and perfectly tender and that word that I hate (you know the one) on the inside.

I topped mine with fresh greens, sliced tomatoes, pesto and a little fresh mozzarella cheese. Obviously if you’re vegan, you’ll want to leave off the pesto and cheese, or find a vegan variety. I could have lived without the cheese, but the pesto definitely adds a special something, so I highly recommend finding one within your eating preferences.

Sun-dried Tomato & Basil White Bean Burgers

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Yield: 6 burgers

Serving Size: 1 burger

Sun-dried Tomato & Basil White Bean Burgers

Healthy, vegan, gluten-free and full of flavor, these sun-dried tomato & basil white bean burgers taste like pizza in a burger! So delicious even meat eaters will crave them.

Ingredients

2 cans white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 medium onion, roughly chopped
3 cloves garlic
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (from a bottle packed in olive oil), patted dry
4-5 medium basil leaves
pinch salt
pinch pepper
1/3 cup almond meal
1-2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Place about 3/4 of the beans (eyeball it), onion, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, salt and pepper in your food processor. Blend for 30-45 seconds until combined. Transfer to a large mixing bowl. Stir in almond meal and remaining beans.
Heat olive oil on a large skillet over medium heat. Form mixture into 6 patties and carefully transfer to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the bottom is browned and set. Very carefully flip and cook for an additional 4-6 minutes until the opposite side is browned and set as well. Serve immediately, or store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

https://arismenu.com/sun-dried-tomato-basil-white-bean-burgers-vegan-gluten-free/

“Spaghetti” & Meatballs {gluten-free}

April 29, 2013 · by Ari ·

So, we all know by now that I have a slight obsession with spaghetti squash. The truth is, I probably won’t give it up until I have created every noodle-y dish known to man using this fabulous vegetable. And even then, I will probably go back to the beginning and make them all again, because it just never.gets.old.

I was raised on Italian food. My dad doesn’t cook and he loves pasta, so it was normal for us to go out to fancy Italian dinners multiple nights per week. Sure, there are some healthy options when you go to an Italian restaurant, but let’s be honest–we really want pasta. All of the pasta. And then more pasta.

Well, you guys know I AM ALL ABOUT THE SAUCE. Pasta is a vehicle. A mostly tasteless way to get to some alfredo sauce or spicy marinara. Or pesto. Or…MEATBALLS.

Honestly, when you have huge delicious meatballs, do you even need spaghetti??? Well, I like a side of spaghetti with my meatballs. A nice side of spaghetti squash to hold onto some sauce, give me some texture, and fill out the rest of my bowl because, let’s be honest, I am always looking for the maximum amount of food possible, and veggies are the way to get there. Bonus points for them being better than “real” pasta.

OMG and can we talk about these meatballs???? They are ridiculous. I’d actually never made meatballs before, but I went with a combination of spicy turkey sausage and lean ground turkey. I added some chopped garlic, some onions to keep them juicy, and some oats to help keep them together. Fun fact–did you know you can sub oats for breadcrumbs in recipes like meatballs and meatloaf? I always do, and it always comes out great!

Sometimes using lean turkey can cause dishes to come out dry, but between the turkey sausage and the onions (my friend Kristi gave me the onion tip!), these meatballs were perfectly juicy and tender.

“Spaghetti” & Meatballs

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour, 10 minutes

Yield: 6-8 servings

The classic comfort of spaghetti and meatballs with a lightened up, gluten-free and grain-free twist. Served with spicy Italian meatballs and spicy marinara sauce.

Ingredients

For the spaghetti squash:

1 large spaghetti squash, halved
2 tsp olive oil
pinch each salt and pepper

For the meatballs:

1 lb lean ground turkey (93% or higher)
1 lb spicy turkey sausage
2-3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1 egg. lightly beaten
1/2 cup oats (use gluten-free if that's important to you)
1 tsp Italian seasonings (preferably homemade)
small pinch cayenne pepper

For the sauce:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, chopped
1 28oz can crushed tomatoes
1 tbsp Italian seasonings
2 tsp crushed red pepper (more or less depending on desired spiciness)
pinch each salt and pepper
freshly grated parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

To make the spaghetti squash, preheat oven to 400. Scrape the seeds and stringy center from the spaghetti squash. Drizzle each half with 1 tsp olive oil. Use your fingers to rub oil into squash. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Lay each half face down in a large baking dish and cook until tender, about an hour.
To make the meatballs, place a wire rack inside a large cookie sheet. Spray with nonstick spray. Set aside. In a large bowl, gently combine all your meatball ingredients.. Do not over mix, just combine. Roll into approx 2" balls (or however large or small you like them). Transfer to prepared wire baking sheet. Bake at 400 (you can throw them in at the same time as your squash!) until cooked throughout, about 25 minutes.
To make the sauce sauté onion and garlic in 1 tbs olive oil over medium heat until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Add crushed tomato and remaining spices. When sauce starts to bubble, reduce heat to a simmer until thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
To plate, scrape the insides of the spaghetti squash. The squash when fully cooked will come out easily in spaghetti-like noodles. Top with sauce and add meatballs. Serve immediately. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

https://arismenu.com/spaghetti-meatballs-gluten-free/

Looking for more spaghetti squash recipes?

“Spaghetti” & Spicy Meat Sauce

Spaghetti Squash Boats

Skinnified “Fettucine” Alfredo

Noodleless Chicken “Pad” Thai

Buckeye Brownies

April 25, 2013 · by Ari ·

My favorite (and best) cooking inspiration has always been making things for the people I love. Especially birthdays. Birthdays are my favorite thing in the world, and nothing brings me more happiness than making the perfect treat to show my love.

In fact, to date my favorite recipe I’ve ever made was for Steve’s birthday last year. I have to tell you, though–these give them a run for their money!

When I saw this post on Brown Eyed Baker a couple of months ago, I immediately sent it to Nicole–the idea is genius, the photos are absolutely gorgeous, and I wanted to jump through my screen and lick every crumb.

So when I was deciding what to make Nicole for her birthday this year, I knew exactly where I wanted to start. Of course, I changed a few things to make these a little less indulgent, but they still tasted rich and decadent. The brownie layer is the fudgiest brownie I have ever tasted, and the peanut butter tastes like the inside of a Reese’s cup, and then that perfectly glossy glaze? I diiiieeee.

The good thing about cooking for your BBF (best blog friend–I know, we’re totally, like tweens) is they don’t mind that you cut into their birthday dessert to photograph it, and maybe sneak a tiny bite so that you can make sure it’s perfect before you give it to them. 😉 Thanks for taking one for the ~~team~~ blog, Nicole!

Buckeye Brownies

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 3 hours

Yield: 32

Serving Size: 1 brownie

Buckeye Brownies

Rich and fudgy brownies topped with creamy sweetened peanut butter, followed by a chocolate peanut butter glaze--these brownies are to-die-for!

Ingredients

For the brownies:

1/3 cup Dutch-processed cocoa
1 1/2 tsp espresso powder
1/2 cup + 2 tbsp boiling water
2 ounces unsweetened chocolate, finely chopped
2 tbsp coconut oil, melted
3 eggs
1 tbsp vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups sugar
1 3/4 cups white whole wheat flour
dash salt
3/4 cup nonfat vanilla yogurt

For the peanut butter layer:

1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
1 1/3 cups powdered sugar
3 tbsp coconut oil, melted
2-3 tbsp unsweetened almond milk

For the chocolate peanut butter glaze:

1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips
1/3 cup creamy peanut butter

Instructions

To make the brownies, preheat the oven to 350. Line a 9x13 pan with aluminum foil and spray lightly with nonstick spray. Set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, espresso powder and water. Add unsweetened chocolate and whisk until combined. Beat in eggs one at a time, then beat in vanilla and sugar. Stir in flour, salt and yogurt until combined. Do not overmix.
Transfer batter to prepared baking dish. Bake set and until a toothpick inserted a couple of inches from the edge comes out with a few crumbs, about 30 minutes. Cool completely on wire rack.
To make the peanut butter layer, beat together peanut butter, coconut oil and powdered sugar until smooth. Add milk 1 tbsp at a time until you reach a smooth, spreadable texture. Spread evenly onto cooled brownies.
To make the glaze, place chocolate and peanut butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20 second increments, stirring between each, until melted. Spread glaze evenly over peanut butter layer. Cool in the refrigerator for 30 minutes, then serve. Store in an airtight container for up to one week.

Notes

Recipe adapted from Brown Eyed Baked

https://arismenu.com/buckeye-brownies/

10 Minute Taco Salad

April 24, 2013 · by Ari ·

You know that go-to outfit that you can always count on when you don’t know what to wear? The one that always looks cute, is super comfortable, and always makes you feel like a million bucks? This salad is like that. Except, I wouldn’t wear it. That would be such a waste of so much deliciousness.

It doesn’t require much explanation. What I can tell you is I have made this more often than any other meal. Ever. I never thought to photograph and post it because it seems so simple and straight forward, but it’s easy to forget that it is those easy and straight forward recipes that I didn’t have back in the day, and those exact recipes that helped me finally be able to lose weight and kick my Taco Bell habit for good.

You can add/subtract whatever you want really. You can use a store bought taco seasoning or make your own, and you can include whichever fresh veggies make your heart happy. I always use romain hearts as the base for crunch, and add cucumber and tomatoes. A lot of times I add chopped carrots, and tons of extra cilantro. Some avocado pieces never hurt, either. Really, there’s no wrong way to make this salad.

Okay, there is ONE wrong way–inside a greasy, deep-fried taco shell. I mean, what is even the point of that thing??? Oh, and also, don’t omit the cinnamon. I know it sounds crazy, but it will take the flavor of your taco salad to the next level. It will become your taco salad secret weapon. Like a ninja. Okay, I’m done.

10 Minute Taco Salad

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Yield: 6 servings

10 Minute Taco Salad

Ridiculously easy, healthy and delicious taco salad. My go-to meal that I continue to make over and over again.

Ingredients

1/2 sweet onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1/2 tbsp olive oil
20 oz ground turkey breast (or 93% lean ground turkey, or 96% lean ground beef)
3 tbsp taco seasoning (preferably homemade, or at least reduced sodium variety)
pinch cinnamon
1/2-3/4 cup water
16 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
2 romain hearts, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 large or 2 persian cucumbers, sliced

Optional Toppings:

Reduced fat cheddar cheese
Nonfat plain Greek yogurt
Fresh cilantro
Sliced avocado
Salsa

Instructions

Heat onion, garlic and bell pepper in olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add ground turkey and cook until turkey is fully browned. Add taco seasoning and cinnamon. Slowly add water until the meat has reached your desired level of liquid (some will cook out, so add a little more than you'd think). Increase heat to bring liquid to a light boil, then reduce to simmer.
Meanwhile, heat beans in a small sauce pan over medium heat until fully warmed.
Place chopped romain in large serving bowls. Layer with cooked meat, beans and fresh veggies. Add any desired toppings.

https://arismenu.com/10-minute-taco-salad/

Drink & Dish: Chicken Enchilada Dip {with video!}

April 22, 2013 · by Ari ·

I think the happiest day of my life was the day Chipotle started serving brown rice. Maybe you think that makes me a total freak? But if that’s true, you clearly don’t understand my love for Mexican food. I mean, I live in Phoenix. Mexican food is more common than hamburgers.

I’ve always been all about the cheese enchiladas. And quesedillas. Pretty much anything with cheese is sure to be a winner in my book. Did I ever tell you about how when I was younger I would “snack” on blocks of cheddar cheese? In fact, just this morning, I told Steve that cheese was my favorite food group.

I’m pretty sure the abundance of cheese is what fuels my love for Mexican food, which is why it’s often difficult for me to find healthy options. No matter what I say, I cannot convince myself that 11 servings of cheese is “healthy”. It’s really sad. If you can help convince me, I would greatly appreciate it. 😉

Luckily, this dip has the perfect amount of cheesy goodness, but with a lighter touch. Most of the creaminess comes from nonfat plain Greek yogurt and the avocado–the avocado is like my secret weapon. I put it in on a whim, and it ended up totally making the dish! It’s like if you took an enchilada and stuffed it with guacamole–I mean, HOW COULD THAT BE BAD???

This dip is super simple with only a handful of ingredients, and it comes together in minutes. It’s perfect for any party or get together, and the bold flavors and creamy texture are sure to be a hit with whoever you’re serving!

Do you guys do anything to celebrate Cinco De Mayo? My plan usually includes eating Mexican food, drinking margaritas, and apparently, wearing a mustache. You’ll have to check out the video to understand that one. Nicole and I were in a rare form of ridiculousness this episode.

Make sure to check out Nicole’s perfect margarita recipe too!

Chicken Enchilada Dip

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Chicken Enchilada Dip

Green chile enchilada dip with creamy avocado, goat cheese and Greek yogurt. Perfectly creamy and cheesy, with a lighter twist.

Ingredients

10-12 oz cooked chicken, shredded (I used the meat from 1 rotisserie chicken)
4 oz goat cheese
1 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
1/2 pint enchilada sauce
1 avocado, pitted and skin removed
Shredded cheddar cheese for topping*
Black olives and green onion for garnish, optional
Baked corn chips for serving

Instructions

Combine chicken, goat cheese, yogurt, enchilada sauce and avocado in a medium pan over medium heat. Stir constantly until all ingredients are melted and combined.
Transfer to your serving dish (make sure it's oven safe) and top with cheddar cheese (I used about 1/3 cup). Broil until cheese is browned and bubbly.
Top with olives and onion if desired. Serve with chips or veggies.

Notes

*I usually use a reduced fat cheddar cheese, but it doesn't melt quite the same. For photos, I used full fat. If you're concerned about appearance, I would encourage a full fat cheese, but if you're purely concerned with taste, reduced fat will still taste great!

https://arismenu.com/drink-dish-chicken-enchilada-dip/

Curried Chicken Salad {without mayo}

April 18, 2013 · by Ari ·

Today I am going to tell you something so embarrassing. Like, I can’t even believe I’m going to tell you, but it’s just so embarrassingly funny that it would be wrong to not give you the opportunity to laugh at me.

Okay, first let me tell you that on Sunday morning I woke up and stretched in bed. All of the sudden my neck snapped, and the pain was immediate. I have barely been able to move my head since. I even called in sick to one of my jobs on Monday and I never call in sick. Anyway, I’ve been glued to the couch after making my way through every episode of How I Met Your Mother that Netflix has to offer, I found myself needing something to watch to ease the pain.

This is where things get ugly. You see, when I’m sick, I love mindless TV. I love that it keeps going and going. I love that I only have to tune in every now and then to understand what’s going on. And I love that I don’t have to use my brain. So this morning when I was deciding what was next while I waited for my stupid neck to heal (I’ve been blogging from the couch laying on my back with my laptop on me knees when I don’t absolutely have to be at work), I may have chosen the most embarrassing TV show ever.

Like, ever. So when Steve came home this afternoon from Landis (he just hangs out at the bike shop for no reason….), I quickly tried to turn off the TV so he wouldn’t see just how low I’d stooped. Then I tried to distract him by pretending to be interested in his trip to the bike shop, but it was no use.

Steve: Are you watching Dawson’s Creek???

Me: I don’t wanna talk about it….

Steve: Babe, I know you’ve been having a hard time (as he struggles to speek through his eruptive laughter)…. Well It would be worse if you were watching it on Hulu or something.

Me: I DON’T WANNA TALK ABOUT IT!!!

Steve: Really?? REALLY?????

(He then gets out his laptop and attempts to post on facebook about me. I plead with him not to embarrass me on the internet–clearly, I’m fully capable of doing that myself…)

Me: (finally) I thought I should start at the beginning.

And that my friends is how ridiculously embarrassing I am. That pretty much sums up my life.

But you know what? Even when I can’t move, I can still make this ridiculously easy chicken salad. It was the first thing I made in days, and I was so thrilled to actually do something productive. I MADE FOOD!! For, like, the entire week! I don’t suck at life!!

One of my best healthy habits (when I actually do it) is making a bulk healthy meal on Sundays that I use for lunch for the entire week. The thing is–you actually have to make it, and you have to REALLY like it if you’re going to eat it all week long (I usually take myself out to Chipotle one of the days, because, I mean, COME ON!). This is what we call lazy woman’s “food prep”.

This chicken salad is so simple with only a handful of ingredients, and it comes together in minutes giving you an entire week’s worth of lunch in less time than it takes me to make breakfast in the morning. And, umm, I would TOTALLY eat this every day for the next 10 weeks. It is bold and flavorful with the curry seasoning, and has a spicy kick with sweet grapes and crunchy almonds and celery–it is perfection. You can eat it on lettuce, with a fork, on rice cakes, in a sandwich, in a Dr. Seuss book… It doesn’t matter how you eat it because, trust me, you will love it!

Curried Chicken Salad {without mayo}

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Yield: 6-8 servings

Curried Chicken Salad {without mayo}

Healthy, bold, flavorful and protein-packed curried chicken salad in minutes with no mayo.

Ingredients

1 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
1 tsp dijon mustard
1 1/2 tbsp curry seasoning
pinch garlic salt
pinch cayenne pepper
10-12 ounces cooked chicken, shredded (I use the meat from a whole rotisserie)
2 ribs celery, finely chopped
3/4 cup grapes, halved
1/4 cup slivered almonds

Instructions

To make the dressing, whisk together Greek yogurt, mustard and seasonings in a large bowl.
Add remaining ingredients and toss until combined. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

https://arismenu.com/curried-chicken-salad/

Plain Ol’ Chocolate Chip Cookies {vegan}

April 17, 2013 · by Ari ·

Sometimes you just need plain, simple, classic comfort food. This is one of those times.

Would you believe I didn’t have a chocolate chip cookie recipe on here? I’m actually more intimidated by simple, well-known recipes. I feel like it has to be *perfect* and I don’t want to post it, until I know I’ve gotten it right.

Chocolate chip cookies with no butter is not an easy feat, my friends. You see, with peanut butter cookies, it’s easy–the fat in the peanut butter works perfectly, and you don’t realize you’re missing the butter, but in a plain ol’ chocolate chip cookie? The flavors I associate are butter, brown sugar and, well, chocolate! But honestly, butter is probably number one.

The secret? It’s the combination of apple butter, which gives the perfect texture (far superior to applesauce or yogurt in cookies) and the tiniest bit of butter extract. That stuff is magical. Using cornstarch in place of an egg not only makes them vegan, but helps keep them thick and chewy, and the massive amount of chocolate chips is 100% necessary. Also, a tiny sprinkle of salt on your dough just before it goes into the oven will take your cookie flavor to the next level! Not quite salted, but it evens out the sweetness.

The result is healthier chocolate chip cookies that taste like the real deal. Thick, chewy, with a slight crunch on the outside, and that perfect soft, gooey, and extra chocolatey inside. I am finally ready to share my chocolate chip cookies with you, because I finally got it right.

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Prep Time: 40 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Yield: 1 1/2 dozen

Serving Size: 1 cookie

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Simple, classic, vegan and whole grain chocolate chip cookies that taste just like the real deal.

Ingredients

1 1/4 cups white whole wheat flour
1 tbsp cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
dash salt
1/2 cup apple butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/8 tsp butter flavoring (optional, but recommended)
1 heaping cup dark chocolate chips
sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking soda and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat together apple butter and sugars until combined. Beat in almond milk, vanilla and butter flavoring. Slowly add in dry ingredients, beating until just combined. Beat in chocolate chips. Cover and chill dough for 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
Preheat oven to 375. Line a large baking sheet with silpat or parchment paper.Use a small cookie scoop, or roll dough into 1" balls. Add a tiny pinch (or more if you want them to have the "salted" taste) of sea salt to the top of each cookie dough ball.
Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and just set. Do not over bake. Allow to cool completely on cookie sheet. Store in a loosely covered container for 5-7 days.

https://arismenu.com/chocolate-chip-cookies/

Portobello Breakfast Cups

April 16, 2013 · by Ari ·

It seems strange to go “back to normal” today. I was originally going to post these yesterday, but it just didn’t seem right. I had too many things rolling around in my brain, and I needed to use this blog for what I originally started it for–to share my thoughts. I love sharing recipes, but I also always want this blog to be a place I approach with honesty and the truth of my thoughts. So if you took the time out of your day to read those thoughts, I also want to say thank you.

Okay, let’s attempt to get back to normal, shall we? You know how I eat the same thing for breakfast every single day? Well, I actually usually eat this for lunch. I love sweet breakfast for breakfast and savory breakfast for lunch. I know, I’m kind of a freak. One day, after eating this for about the 6th consecutive day, I thought I’d take a picture of it.

Except when I eat this, I just chop the mushroom up and throw everything together in a big bowl, but that’s not exactly visually appealing, or at all photogenic. So this time I put everything in nice little mushroom cups for you. Then, after I took this picture, I threw everything into a big bowl.

It’s funny, I rarely use eggs when I bake. I’ll use them if I’m using other dairy products, but that’s not very often, so I usually leave them out to keep them friendly for my vegan friends. But on their own? I love eggs. Especially a runny yolk.

This meal comes together in less than 20 minutes, and it is packed with healthy veggies–perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

Portobello Breakfast Cups

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Yield: 2

Serving Size: 2 cups

Portobello Breakfast Cups

A simple, veggie-packed breakfast, lunch or dinner. Grain and gluten-free.

Ingredients

4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
2 tbsp olive oil, divided
1/2 large sweet onion, chopped
1 bell pepper (red, yellow, orange, etc.), chopped
1 zucchini, chopped
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
large handful chopped kale, approx 1 cup loosely packed
1 chicken sausage, sliced
1/4 cup 75% reduced fat cheddar cheese (or whatever cheese you want to use, or no cheese if you wish)
4 eggs
salt and pepper to taste
Chalulah for topping, optional

Instructions

Line a medium-large baking dish with tin foil. Add portobello mushrooms and drizzle lightly with 1 tbsp olive oil. Broil until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, zucchini and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes, until fragrant. Add kale and chicken sausage. Season with salt and pepper. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.
While vegetables finish cooking, fry eggs over medium heat in a large nonstick skillet until bottoms are browned, and eggs are cooked to desired consistency (for me, it's about 5 minutes).
Top cooked portobellos with sauteed vegetables, then cheese. Top with fried egg. Add a few shakes of Chalulah is desired.

https://arismenu.com/portobello-breakfast-cups/

Find Hope

April 16, 2013 · by Ari ·

Like many of you, I spent the majority of yesterday glued to the news and social media. I sat stunned, unable to tear myself away from the news that continued to break my heart. I found myself momentarily lose faith. After all, the past several months in our country have been heartbreaking. I never wrote about Sandy Hook because I couldn’t talk about it. I kept imagining if it were my students, and I thought of how much I love them. I couldn’t watch the news, and I couldn’t talk about how I felt.

Then yesterday as I watched and waited for the news on my friends’ finish times, everything changed in one moment, and my heart dropped. This time also felt too close to home, but I couldn’t not watch. I watched helplessly as my heart sank further and further into my chest, with the reality of both tragedies weighing down on it.

But then I saw a photo of the people who rushed in to help. Yes, in these horrible situations there is 1, maybe sometimes a small few, person/people with cruelty and hatred int heir heart, but there are millions with love. There is good, love and kindness all around. If we forget that, we’ve let the hatred win. I refuse to let them win, and while that doesn’t mean I am not still heartbroken, I am equally inspired by the strength of this community.

This morning I am inspired and comforted by the words of my amazing coach.

“The marathon community/running community are shinning examples of GOOD!!! With the support of our running community…dreams are achieved, challenges are overcome, friendships form, friendships turn into family, lives change for the positive. Our running community is experiencing a tragedy, but we will find strength in each other and we will continue to shine, support, celebrate and overcome.

This tragedy darkened everyone’s “Dream Boston Marathon Experience” but we will not let it stop our celebration of the good, the positive and the successes!

We are a SUPPORTIVE, STRONG, COMMUNITY of runners that will continue forward as shining examples of the GOOD in this world!!”

So let’s be the good in the world. Let’s give to those who are grieving, and do everything in our powers to make this world better. Let’s love unconditionally and preserve our idealism. Let’s not give the monsters behind these attacks any more power. And let’s continue to be that amazing, strong, and inspiring community we are known for being.

**My heart goes out so deeply to those who were effected–directly, or indirectly, and I am filled with gratitude for every single individual who jumped in to help. This world is filled with heroes.

Grilled Skirt Steak with Blackberry Avocado Salsa

April 11, 2013 · by Ari ·

Did I ever tell you about the time I gave up red meat? I was actually super strict about it for a couple of years. When I first started losing weight, it was one of those easy swaps that was easy to make, and for the most part, I still stick to lean poultry and fish, but I’m not so sure red meat deserves the bad rep it seems to get.

I had never even eaten skirt steak (to my knowledge), but we went out a couple of weeks ago for my step-dad’s birthday, and I ordered this salad with skirt steak and avocado. It had other things, but I can’t even tell you what they were. For me, it was all about the skirt steak and avocado.

It was so bold and flavorful that I immediately became obsessed with the idea of recreating my own at home. I’d also been dying to try a fruit salsa. A lot of people make them with strawberries, but I hate strawberries almost as much as I hate pineapple. I know, I’m so weird about the fruits I hate.

Anyway, I have a pretty serious blackberry obsession. Specifically blackberry jam on wheat toast with an egg white omelet whenever I go out to breakfast. Something about that perfect combination…I crave it. As soon as I sit down, I check to see if blackberry is in that little stack of jams. I’ve also recently put it in pancakes, muffins, and now….salsa. Weird, right?

If by weird you mean DELICIOUS, then yes. It’s totally weird. This is one of those instances where the flavors just magically work together. You can’t really explain it, it just works.

It was really easy to make. The longest part is marinating the steaks, but you just need to do it. You can totally do it in the morning before work, or even begin the night before, but the steak and the marinade need to become BFFs for at least an hour, preferably more. Give them time to fall deeply in love, which if you saw Les Mis, you will know it can happen unconvincingly after about 90 minutes of far more interesting exposition.

So, moral of the story: marinate your meat. Longer is better. In the end, the star is going to be the blackberry avocado salsa anyway. It’s sweet, citrusy, spicy and creamy from the avocado. It’s pretty much the thing dreams are made of.

Grilled Skirt Steak with Blackberry Avocado Salsa

Prep Time: 1 hour

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour, 10 minutes

Yield: 6

Grilled Skirt Steak with Blackberry Avocado Salsa

Bold marinated and grilled skirt steaks topped with a sweet and spicy blackberry avocado salsa.

Ingredients

For the steak:

1 1/2 lbs skirt steak, fat trimmed as much as possible
1 cup red wine
2-3 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 tbsp worcestershire sauce
3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp dijon mustard
heavy pinch each of salt and pepper

For the Blackberry Avocado Salsa:

12 oz blackberries, chopped
1 medium avocado, cubed
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
handful fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1 lime, zest and juice
1 jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped

Instructions

Begin by making the steak marinade. In a large bowl, whisk together wine, garlic, worcestershire, vinegar, mustard, salt and pepper. Transfer with steaks to an airtight container. Make sure there is enough liquid to cover your steaks. If not, add extra red wine. Refrigerate for at least one hour or up to overnight.
To make the salsa, gently toss all ingredients together in a large bowl. Do not over mix or you will lose the chunks of avocado. Cover and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Grill meat until desired doneness. I like mine medium and it took about 4 minutes per side. Serve topped with blackberry avocado salsa.

Notes

You may use any cut of steak (or any meat, or non meat) you like. The salsa would be great with a filet, or sea bass, or even over some cooked quinoa if you want to keep it vegetarian!

https://arismenu.com/grilled-skirt-steak-with-blackberry-avocado-salsa/

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Drink & Dish: Chicken Enchilada Dip {with video!}

Curried Chicken Salad {without mayo}

Plain Ol’ Chocolate Chip Cookies {vegan}

Portobello Breakfast Cups

Find Hope

Grilled Skirt Steak with Blackberry Avocado Salsa

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