24-hour food recall.  Sometimes I do this just to look at what I ate during the day.  From one day to the next, one meal to the next, I do not see much variation.  This is something I have to work on—variety.  I guess when it comes to food, I am somewhat of a creature of habit.  Veggies (I have variety when it comes to my vegetables, I promise), beans, eggs, chicken, banana, seeds, repeat.  I am on my own form of the Paleolithic diet.  However, I do find ways to spice it up a bit.

One thing I will note, I am big into whole foods.  I rarely use juices, and I never blend any meals.  I am all about volume.  A whole apple to me is much more satisfying than a half a cup of apple juice.  More filling, and I find I eat less of it.

A typical clean meal…

Golden cherry tomatoes, eggplant, broccoli, summer squash, spinach, mushroom, snow peas, and kale.  Then I sprinkled some chopped chicken, pink Mediterranean salt, and some of the fix-ins shown below.

Some of my own, natural, healthy additives…

Beets

As someone who does not eat sugar, I have to satisfy my sweet tooth in any way possible.  Enter beets.  These pretty purple plants offer a great flavor to any dish.  I love them roasted or steamed, and I get them at Trader Joe’s.

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Hot Sauce

It took me awhile to get comfortable with hot sauce.  But now, I am an addict.  I put it on just about everything…my eggs, my salads.  For those of you who don’t like spicy, I recommend you start with something light, like a medium salsa, and work your way up to the spicy stuff.  From what I hear, it helps boost the metabolism…at least for a little while after eating.

(H)

Oregano

So tasty, and so many incredible health benefits.

Fresh Dill

I became aware of dill purely by accident.  I was eating a salad with some spring mix in it, and I tasted something strong, yet flavorful.  Not a typical response to greens.  I asked my mom about it, and she introduced me to my new best friend dill.  I absolutely love the taste and the smell.  Sprinkle some dill on your meals!  It’s great fresh.

Apple Cider Vinegar & Mustard

This mix is a staple in our home.  A strong, demanding flavor that makes for a healthy alternative to most dressings.

Chipotle Pepper Hummus

I am sensing some themes here.  One, Trader Joe’s.  Two, spicy food.  I love to have meals that clear the sinuses, obviously.  This hummus is delicious, but any hummus is a great, wholesome option as a sandwich spread, dip, or salad topper.  It can add up quickly, so be conscious.

Find a taste you love, and add it!  I highly recommend exploring the herbs in your local supermarket.  Ciao!