Pumpkin Pandemonium

Yes. I realize that title was a stretch. But just work with me here.

Since fall is in full swing (at least with this 65 degree weather it feels like it is!) I thought I'd do a quick pumpkin recipe round-up for all who are itching to get that pumpkin smell through their house!

Here we go...

Pumpkin & Dark Chocolate Muffins

Pumpkin Graham Smoothie

Pumpkin Pancakes

Pumpkin Pie Spiced Almonds

 

Pumpkin Waffles 

Protein Power

I'm guessing you have all heard people say that it is important to have some protein when you eat a small snack or even when you eat a meal. Why is that? Because protein has staying power - it keeps you full longer - and it keeps your blood sugar levels in check. And protein is just a good thing to eat! The problem some people run into is that it is much easier to find a carb loaded snack than a protein packed snack. So here are some options for you snack-on-the-go people!

- cheese stick
- 10 to 15 almonds
- hard boiled egg
- a serving of greek yogurt
- 30 pistachios
- 2 Tbsp. peanut or almond butter with celery
- 1/4 cup hummus with carrots and celery
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 2 slices of turkey with some sliced peppers
- 2/3 cup edamame in the shell
- Trio Bar
- protein bites (lots of recipes online: here and here and here)
- homemade granola bars

 

Find the snacks you like and try to keep some with you in your backpack or purse. That way when you do get hungry, you don't end up at the nearest gas station trying to find something that looks good. Instead, you have a healthy option that will keep you satisfied and help your mind stay alert!

Quick (and simple) Quinoa

Quinoa is a grain that is also a complete protein. That’s why we love it! There are tons of health benefits associated with adding quinoa to your diet, not to mention how good it is to just try to whole grains that carry a good amount of protein too. So here is a quick and simple dinner that you can add to your recipe box.

I make my quinoa in the rice cooker. Pop it in and let it cook, and it stops when it is done and keeps it warm until you are ready to eat. Perfect!

While the quinoa cooked, I chopped some almonds and toasted them in the oven at 400 for about 10 minutes.

Once the quinoa finished, I put some on a plate, added 2 drops of pesto (I believe it was purchased from Costco, but you can always make your own!) and topped with roasted almond.

On the side I added some roasted butternut squash and a little leftover crockpot chicken. Yum!