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by Caitlin H,

Jun 17, 2024

You might think you can no longer have many of your favorite treats on a low-carb diet.

These heavenly, delish desserts prove that’s simply not true! All you need to do is swap familiar ingredients with keto-friendly replacements — and voila! You’ll have every confection you desire without going outside the keto diet line.

Here are 10 favorites you can make in 20 minutes or less.

Keto Key Lime Fluff

Servings: 6
Net Carbs: 2.5g

Cheesecake lovers, this one’s for you. A delicious blend of four simple ingredients is all you need to create this scrumptious key lime-flavored Keto Key Lime Fluff.

Recipe courtesy Sugar Free Londoner

Keto Peanut Butter Fudge

Servings: 15
Net Carbs: 3g

These Peanut Butter Fudge bites epitomize creamy, rich, and decadent treats. They’re perfect for peanut butter lovers and any keto follower who just wants to pop in a quick treat to satisfy their sweet tooth.

Recipe courtesy All Day I Dream About Food

Cookies and Cream Keto Fat Bombs

Servings: 6
Net Carbs: 4g

Feeling fancy? Whip up these no-bake Cookies and Cream Keto Fat Bombs in a jiffy for delicious treats that look as elegant as they taste.

Recipe courtesy Gnom-Gnom

Keto Brownies

Servings: 25
Net Carbs: 1.6g

For a chocolatey treat that melts in your mouth, try these easy-to-make Keto Brownies. They use almond flour instead of regular flour to ensure they’re low-carb and keto-friendly. Thankfully, the ingredient swap doesn’t skimp on taste, ensuring these are a dessert everyone will love!

Recipe courtesy Chocolate Covered Katie

Orange Creamsicle Jello Whips

Servings: 4
Net Carbs: 2g

There’s nothing quite like a fruity, velvety orange creamsicle on a warm summer day. Enter: Orange Creamsicle Jello Whips, a fun-to-make, sugar-free refreshment perfect for enjoying on a patio at sunset.

Recipe courtesy Resolution Eats

Keto Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake

Servings: 1
Net Carbs: 4g

With a mug, a few keto-friendly ingredients, and 5 minutes is all you need to create a mouth-watering cinnamon roll snack perfect for a morning meal or after-dinner dessert. Trust us, you’ll repeatedly return to this Keto Cinnamon Roll Mug Cake.

Recipe courtesy The Diet Chefs

Easy Keto Chocolate Mousse

Servings: 2
Net Carbs: 7g

Mousse often appears in keto dessert round-ups, and for good reason! It’s a rich, decadent pleasure that takes almost no time to make. This particular Easy Keto Chocolate Mousse recipe is so easy that it’s hard to find a reason NOT to make it.

Recipe courtesy Stylish Cravings

Keto Brown Butter Pralines

Servings: 10
Net Carbs: 1g

Browned butter is one of the most delicious things you can enjoy, and this recipe makes good use of it. You can quickly whip up these crunchy, mellow Brown Butter Pralines on the stove and then refrigerate or freeze them to enjoy all week long.

Recipe courtesy Low Carb with Jennifer

Keto White Chocolate Caramel Blondies

Servings: 16
Net Carbs: 2g

A buttery base and sugar-free caramel topping make these Keto White Chocolate Caramel Blondies a crowd-pleaser for bringing to a neighborhood barbecue, family gathering, or friendly party. Once they bite into these decadent desserts, they’ll have difficulty believing they’re low-carb.

Recipe courtesy Choc Zero

Keto Edible Cookie Dough

Servings: 16
Net Carbs: 2.6g

You can have your cookies and eat them too with this easy 15-minute Edible Cookie Dough recipe, which you can enjoy by the spoonful.

Recipe courtesy I Can’t Believe It’s Low-Carb

 

 

 

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Author: Caitlin H
Diet-to-Go Community Manager

Caitlin is the Diet-to-Go community manager and an avid runner. She is passionate about engaging with others online and maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. She believes moderation is key, and people will have the most weight loss success if they engage in common-sense healthy eating and fitness.

 

This strawberry rhubarb galette is made with fresh sweet strawberries, tart rhubarb, and a rustic, flaky, buttery crust. Serve with vanilla ice cream and it’s the perfect spring and summer dessert!

Why I Love This Recipe

Strawberry and rhubarb season is upon us so what better way to celebrate than make a sweet, refreshing dessert.

Since I’m basically the galette queen now (a title I’ve crowned myself with), I figured I’d stick to what I know. And I know flaky, buttery crusts, amirite? If you’re new here and like WTF, let me introduce you to my heirloom tomato galette and my asparagus and mushroom galette. YA WELCOME.

If you’re wondering why I love galettes so damn much, it’s because the crust is easy to make in the food processor and you don’t have to perfect rolling out the dough or folding it over because it’s meant to be imperfectly rustic. Plus, you can fill them with whatever your sweet heart desires. Savory? Sweet? You can have it all.

If you haven’t had a strawberry rhubarb combo before, you haven’t lived. Rhubarb is actually a vegetable despite popular belief. BUT paired with sweet berries, it’s the perfect flavor bomb of sweet and tart. 

Serve this baby warm with a scoop of cold vanilla ice cream on top and you will have friends for life. Trust me. If you’re looking for a dessert to bring to your next summer potluck, this is bound to be a hit. 

Ingredients You’ll Need

Notes on Ingredients

all-purpose flour: Acts as part of the base for the crust. I use a combination of all-purpose flour and whole-wheat pastry flour. 

whole-wheat pastry flour: Helps the crust have a fine texture and adds a little fiber and nutty flavor.

sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to the crust and the filling. 

salt: Enhances the flavor of the crust. 

butter: I use unsalted butter but the main trick here is that it must be cold! Don’t take the butter out of the fridge until you are ready to cube it up and throw it in. 

water: This also must be cold! I like to stir a few ice cubes in a cup of water and let them sit for a minute before pouring the water into the food processor. The water helps the crust form together. 

egg: Used to make an egg wash to create that nice golden brown color of the crust. 

strawberries: provide a sweet, refreshing flavor. 

rhubarb: has a tart and slightly sour flavor that balances out with the strawberries. 

lemon juice: boosts the flavor of the filling and prevents the crust from becoming soggy. 

vanilla: adds a touch of sweetness and flavor to the filling.

cornstarch: helps thicken the filling. 

Nutrition Benefits of this Recipe

Both strawberries and rhubarb are great sources of vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. 

Vitamin C is an antioxidant so it has protective effects on the body. Diets high in vitamin C have been associated with lower risks of cardiovascular disease, stroke, cancer and increased longevity. 

Rhubarb is also a fantastic source of vitamin K, which is an essential vitamin for bone health and blood clotting. 

In other words, you can have your dessert and as a bonus get your vitamins in too!

Equipment You’ll Need (affiliate links – if you make a purchase I receive a small commission)

Food Processor or Pastry Cutter

Rolling Pin

How to Make Strawberry Rhubarb Galette

To make the dough:

Combine dry ingredients. Add flours, sugar, and salt to a large mixing bowl and stir to combine then add to food processor. 
Cut in cold butter. Using the food processor (or a pastry cutter or two knives) cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse meal. 
Add cold water. If using a food processor, add cold water while machine is running, until the dough holds together (about 15-30 seconds). Otherwise, add water to the bowl and using a fork or your hands, mix together until dough forms.
Turn and chill dough. Turn the dough out onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Press into a flat, round disc, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for 30-60 minutes.
Roll dough. Once the dough has chilled, roll it out onto a lightly floured surface, about 12 inches in diameter, 1/8 inch thick. Transfer dough to parchment paper.

To make the filling and assemble:

Combine filling ingredients. Mix together strawberries, rhubarb, lemon juice, sugar, vanilla and cornstarch in a medium bowl until combined. 
Add filling to dough. Pour strawberry rhubarb filling onto the dough, leaving a 2-inch border.
Fold edges. Gently fold the edges of the dough over, covering about 2 inches of the filling, pressing gently to adhere the folds.
Brush with egg wash. Brush egg wash over the exposed dough edges. Sprinkle sugar over dough edges.
Bake and cool. Bake at 400 degrees until crust is golden-brown and filling is bubbling, about 35-45 minutes. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring the galette with parchment paper to a cooling rack. Gently pull parchment paper out from underneath while keeping the galette on the cooling rack. Let galette cool to room temperature, or at least for two hours.

Expert Tips

Be sure to refrigerate dough ahead of time for at least 30-60 minutes. Dough can be made up to three days in advance.
Make sure to transfer rolled out dough onto parchment-lined baking sheet BEFORE piling with toppings. I’ve made that mistake before and it’s really hard to transfer to a baking sheet when it’s weighed down with filling.
Be careful not to roll the dough out too thin. Galettes are meant to be rustic – it’s okay if some juices escape the crust, but be sure the dough is thick enough to prevent excess juices from leaking. 
If you’re short on time, you can also use store-bought pie crust.
Letting the galette cool to room temperature before slicing will help the juices set.

Storage and Preparation

Leftovers can be stored at room temperature for up to 24 hours and in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Dough can be made up to three days in advance and stored in the refrigerator wrapped in plastic wrap. If refrigerated for more than 60 minutes, let sit out at room temperature for 15-30 minutes before using.

Dough can also be stored in the freezer for up to three months. If frozen, let dough defrost overnight in the fridge before using.

Recipes That Pair Well

Coconut Milk Vietnamese Iced Coffee Ice Cream

Coconut Milk Strawberry Ice Cream

Dairy Free Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream

For more strawberry inspiration, check out my other recipes below! 

Balsamic Roasted Strawberry Shortcake

Easy Strawberry Chia Jam

Mini Balsamic Strawberry and Cream Popsicles

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Smoothie

If you like this recipe, please be sure to comment and give it a 5 star rating below. If you make it, share it on Instagram and tag me @karalydonrd and I’ll re-share it with my followers! If you want to save this recipe for later, be sure to pin it on Pinterest!

Don’t ever miss a recipe! Sign up to receive my monthly newsletter with a round-up of recipes from the previous month and get my FREE guide when you sign up: Rediscover the Joy in Eating: 5 Simple Steps to Stop Stressing Over Food + Enjoy Every Bite

This recipe was retested, reshot and revamped to bring you the most delicious (and most beautiful) dish! The original post was published June 2019. 

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Easy 5-Minute Salmon Salad

Privacy & Cookies Policy

Eminence Organics has come a long way from our humble beginnings in Hungary. Since 1958, our mission to enhance your well-being naturally through extraordinary products and extraordinary service has taken us from the Hungarian countryside to Vancouver, Canada and beyond. Today, we have roots in Hungary at the Eminence Certified Organic Farm, a growing team at our central office in Vancouver and thousands of spa partners that carry our results-driven, organic products worldwide. Here is a brief look at our incredible journey.

From Hungary With Love

Eminence Organic Skin Care began years ago with the organic ingredients and natural skin care techniques used for generations by Koronczay family estheticians. However, the defining experience that led Boldijarre and Attila Koronczay into the skin care industry was an unlikely one. At the age of four, Boldijarre was diagnosed with an extremely rare form of leukemia and was given a 0.1% chance of survival. His mother and grandmother turned to organic nutrition to help his body heal. Incredibly, Boldijarre made a full recovery and since, the brothers’ goal has been to enhance people’s well-being through organic nutrition and skin care.

The Move To Vancouver, Canada

Years after his recovery, Boldijarre followed in Koronczay family footsteps and became a trained esthetician with a passion for natural and organic ingredients. In 1996, with the goal of bringing organic skin care worldwide, he and Attila set their sights on Vancouver, Canada. Boldijarre says: “We particularly chose Vancouver due to the healthy lifestyle that the city could provide, as well as [it being] one of the greenest cities in North America… We were also looking for a place that had a mild climate all year long, due to having natural and heat-sensitive products.”

To begin, the Koronczay brothers worked minimum wage jobs and renovated apartments in exchange for rent. Attila remembers: “We dealt with years of rejection while the market wasn’t ready to understand the benefits of organic. Even the spa industry wasn’t interested in organic products… My brother and I shared a sofa bed for almost a decade. But, we shared the same dream and same dedication to our ideas and to each other.”

A Global Brand

It was nine years before Eminence Organics took off in North America. The company started small, with Boldijarre working at a local spa and sharing the skin care line with his private clients. Word of his organic facials and Hungarian-style massage techniques quickly spread, and he soon had a lengthy waitlist. With his background in engineering and logistics, Attila stepped in to oversee business operations, bringing Eminence Organics products from Hungary to North America.

Today, Boldijarre is a spa industry icon with an unparalleled reputation as a Master Esthetician, developing skin care products that have attracted A-list clientele, including Katherine Heigl, Laura Dern and Kristen Bell. Attila continues to direct the day-to-day operations of the business, overseeing farm production, product development and manufacturing in Hungary.

Our central office is in Vancouver but we keep close ties to our Hungarian roots. At Eminence, people often ask, “Is Eminence really made in Hungary?” All of our products are, in fact, formulated in Hungary, where the majority are also manufactured then sent to Canada for hand pouring. Although a variety of our natural, organic and Biodynamic® ingredients are globally sourced, the majority are still grown in Hungary.

Ingredients For Success

At Eminence Organics, we are incredibly proud of how far we have come. The secret to success? Boldijarre tells Dermascope: “Success is working all the time and making it look easy. It’s only through decades of hard work, late nights, sacrifices, uphill battles and hundreds of miles spent on the road each year that have made Eminence into the global brand it is today.”

Watch this video to see some of the milestones that have marked our journey:

How long have you been a fan of Eminence Organics? We would love to hear how you were introduced to our skin care! Share your story with us in the comments below or join the conversation on social media.

I’ve been a big fan of retinol and prescription retinoids since they came on the scene for anti-aging in the early ’90s. However, back then, the lack of education and the availability of only prescription retinoids meant that the side effects could be quite severe. There was a limited understanding of how to use them properly to minimize these effects, which unfortunately discouraged many people from trying. Fast forward to today, and I’m not only thrilled that retinol is now available without a prescription, but I’m also incredibly excited about the new ways we’ve discovered to use it. Introducing: the retinol sandwich method.

Having worked with vitamin A and retinoids for a long time, it’s truly exciting to see what we can do with them now. So, what’s the reality behind this popular technique?

What is Retinol?

Let’s start from the top: What are retinol and retinoids? Derived from vitamin A, these are powerful agents that can address and reverse various signs of aging. These signs may include fine lines, wrinkles, post-breakout marks, enlarged pores, and brown spots. Whether in prescription form (like tretinoin) or over-the-counter options (such as Advanced Resurfacing Serum), retinoids have the potential to significantly enhance the skin’s appearance, promoting a more youthful, radiant-looking skin over time.

However, those who have used retinol or retinoids before have likely experienced a period of purging, otherwise known as “the retinol scaries.” This can be anything from an increase in breakouts to dryness, flaking, or irritation. Taking place almost immediately, this process happens while skin is adjusting to an increase in cell turnover. It’s because of this that lingering breakouts that might’ve taken weeks (or even months) to surface will all appear at once. This means that, before it gets better, your breakouts can actually get worse.

Not sure if this is right for your routine? Check out my beginner’s guide to retinol and retinoid usage!

What Is the Sandwich Method for Retinol?

While recently trending on TikTok, the retinol sandwich method isn’t a new concept in skincare at all. Sprouting from the ever-popular ‘moisture sandwich’ method, which promotes layering your products in order of viscosity, the idea of the retinol sandwich is to apply your retinol serum in between two layers of moisturizer (i.e. the bread) in an attempt to minimize its potential side effects. This is a great concept to try out if you’re someone with sensitive skin, a compromised barrier, or are new to the ingredient.

How Do You Sandwich Retinol?

Trying out this method is easy! Here’s the technique I recommend:

In the PM, cleanse skin thoroughlyApply toner (or hydrating essence) and serum for your skin typeApply a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to damp skinAllow this to dry completelyApply your retinol or retinoidGive your retinol time to absorb, then apply a second layer of the same moisturizer

This technique allows the first layer of moisturizer to act as a buffer between your skin and the hard-hitting active ingredient, while the second layer locks it all in. If you’re in need of additional buffering, I advise using an essence, like Moisture Infusion Toner, along with your toner and serum. Alcohol-free toners are great because water acts as a carrier to deliver ingredients deep into your skin, but in this case, that’s probably not something you’re seeking. By adding a serum-infused toner, or essence, you’re providing a little extra buffering as opposed to just a water-based toner.

Best Practices

I always recommend using a lightweight, non-greasy lotion for your skin type. Heavy creams have a larger molecule and, when applied before retinol or a prescription retinoid, prevent the actives from penetrating the skin. This is why I recommend a lighter, oil-free lotion, like Skin Recovery Lotion, that will provide a buffering layer of hydration without blocking the vitamin A product from working. That’s the key— you don’t want to dilute it to the point that it doesn’t work, just enough to take the edge off a little bit to manage some of the side effects.

Does the Retinol Sandwich Method Work?

This method can help mitigate irritation, dryness, and flaking while still providing youth-boosting benefits. If you have sensitive skin, want to focus on barrier protection, or are new to the ingredient, this is an effective option for limiting harsh side effects.

Does Sandwiching Retinol Between Moisturizer Make It Less Effective?

In short, no. When applying a it, you’re putting a specific percentage, say .1%, on your face. The percentage used doesn’t change no matter what you apply before or after it, meaning you aren’t making it less effective. However, what might change is the ability of the product to penetrate the skin. Applying moisturizer first does not necessarily dilute it, while mixing the two together would, but it does minimize the active’s ability to penetrate the skin.

All in all, using a hydrating cream before applying retinol won’t dilute its potency, it will just mitigate some of the negative side effects.

What Are the Benefits of the Retinol Sandwich Method?

By eliminating the usual side effects associated with retinol, skin will experience increased smoothness, hydration, and a brighter glow due to fewer opaque, dead skin cells. By creating a buffer, the skin barrier is less likely to become compromised, resulting in less dehydration and sensitivity.

Additionally, retinol sandwiching is a great option for those with acne-prone skin. Since acne-prone skin is already active and facing inflammation, I generally advise against using a stimulating active ingredient, as it can add even more inflammation. However, the sandwich method can make retinol more agreeable for skin, allowing those with acne to still receive anti-aging benefits

Should I Add It to My Routine?

If you’ve decided it’s time to start using retinol, then deciding if you want to add sandwiching to your routine is pretty simple: is it causing you unwanted dryness, redness, or irritation? Then give it a go! Even if you just want to spot treat particularly dry areas, such as around the eyes, nose, and mouth, you can apply moisturizer to just those areas before going in with retinol.

However, if you want to reap the maximum effects of retinol or retinoid and are okay with the typical side effects associated with this serum, you may want to opt out of sandwiching entirely.

Best Products To Use With the Retinol Sandwich Method

If you’re eager to try this ingredient but are concerned about the possible setbacks, you can start by sandwiching with any retinol or retinoid (here’s the difference), but I recommend keeping an eye out for one with these four things!

However, if you’re looking to skip the additional steps required for sandwiching, I recommend using a retinol gentle enough that a sandwich or phase-in period isn’t required, like Advanced Resurfacing Serum. Not all retinols are created equally due to varying strengths and intensities, and this serum is formulated for sensitive skin and for those whose skin has been unable to tolerate prescription retinoids. From here you can work your way up to a more powerful option without the additional steps or products.

Experiencing the retinol scaries? Our new Rest Day Masque is a deeply moisturizing and reparative treatment that will instantly correct parched skin, tightness, and visible flaking often caused by actives such as retinoids, exfoliating acids, or benzoyl peroxide.

What Are There Cons to Sandwiching Retinol?

While sandwiching is a safe and effective way to reduce irritation, these are a few things you should consider before trying it out yourself.

Slower results: Because sandwiching reduces the absorption of product, it may take longer to see visible results compared to using retinol alone.Potential for irritation: While sandwiching can reduce the likelihood of irritation, some people may still experience some, depending on the thickness of the moisturizer, concentration of ingredients, and sensitivity of skin.Cost and product usage: Using more product (two layers of moisturizer) each time you apply retinol can lead to faster depletion of your products and increased cost over time.

How Often Should I Use This Technique?

How often you use this method can be very similar to lifting weights. Somedays, you may only want to lift 5lbs, while other days you may opt for 20lbs if you know you’re going to have some extra downtime after. I really believe that a “no pain, no gain” philosophy can be applied to retinol usage.

If you’re a retinol beginner, I would suggest using this method 1-2 times per week, gradually increasing the frequency as your skin adjusts. However, I know that if I don’t have any special occasions or a need to be filming anytime soon, then I don’t mind my skin peeling a little if that means receiving more noticeable results. Also, oilier skin types may not need to sandwich as much as others since their oil acts as their own built-in buffering method.

Remember, retinol causes skin to be more susceptible to sunburns so make sure you are only using it at night (and don’t forget sunscreen in the morning!).

Ultimately, the retinol sandwich method is a great technique to utilize if you want the anti-aging results without the drawbacks. Just understand that you may not see results as quickly if you aren’t pushing your skin’s limits.

Diet-to-Go is the Catalyst For Improved Diabetes and Wellness

by Caitlin H,

Jun 24, 2024

When Richard’s two children sat down with him on New Year’s Day to outline several life changes he needed to make to start caring for himself better, he took it to heart.

Two days later, Richard signed up for Diet-to-Go. Within five weeks, he lost 15 pounds and saw a rapid stabilization in his blood sugar levels.

And when he shared Diet-to-Go with a friend, who then went on to lose 80 lbs, he realized how powerful food choices can be.

10 Keto-Friendly Desserts You Can Make in 20 Minutes or Less

by Caitlin H,

Jun 17, 2024

You might think you can no longer have many of your favorite treats on a low-carb diet.

These heavenly, delish desserts prove that’s simply not true! All you need to do is swap familiar ingredients with keto-friendly replacements — and voila! You’ll have every confection you desire without going outside the keto diet line.

5 Ways to Work Out with Your Furry Friend

by Caitlin H,

Jun 10, 2024

Dog owners will be the first to tell you that their beloved furball is more than just a pet to them — in many ways, it’s like a child. There’s a good reason for this. Dogs have their own unique personalities, traits, and quirks. They thrive under routines. And they are capable of loyalty and love beyond most people’s expectations.

It shouldn’t be a surprise that dogs are good for your health, and there are several fun ways to work out with them.

Man Uses Diet-to-Go to Shed 100+ Pounds Ahead of Hip Surgery

by Caitlin H,

Jun 3, 2024

For many people, a medical scare is the catalyst for making a big life change. That was certainly the case for 73-year-old Rodney Arnold, a retired Sacramento code enforcement officer from Hawaii who has shed more than 100 pounds with Diet-to-Go.

“I found out I had to have hip surgery,” Rodney said, remembering a doctor’s visit in late 2022. “They wouldn’t touch me unless I lost a lot of weight and my BMI was 30.”

A Dive Deep into 5 Fish We Love

by Caitlin H,

May 27, 2024

Fish is a delicious and nutritious protein that often finds its way into healthy diets—and for good reason. It’s a filling main dish packed with a wide range of nutrients. It’s also extremely versatile, affording home cooks and chefs the ability to create unique and tasty dishes that millions of people enjoy daily.

Let’s dive deeper into the health benefits of five of the most popular kinds of fish and our delicious meals that feature them!

A Look at the Most Popular Prescription Weight Loss Drugs

by Caitlin H,

May 20, 2024

GLP-1 agonist weight loss drugs (think Ozempic and Wegovy) are all the rage right now, available at clinics and spas nationwide. They promise users a quick way to shed pounds, and many studies show they are quite effective in doing just that.

But do they work long-term? What are the downsides? And are they right for you? Here’s a deeper look at these weight loss drugs, including pros and cons and how to use them most effectively paired with your Diet-to-Go meals.

Food Cravings? Manage Them With an Intuitive Approach

by Caitlin H,

May 13, 2024

Food cravings are a part of life.

Whether you find your mind wandering to how nice it would be to enjoy a favorite baked good or feel an insatiable need for a childhood staple, cravings are real.

For some people, they’re harmless. But for others, they can quickly get out of hand, leading to overeating and excess calories that derail weight loss plans and make achieving goals pretty darn impossible.

How good are you at managing your cravings?

10 Delicious, Creative Twists to Elevate Your Oatmeal

by Caitlin H,

May 6, 2024

Eating a healthy, balanced breakfast is one of the best things you can do to improve your chances of reaching your weight loss goals.

Experts say people who eat breakfast start their day off right by giving them fuel to get through the morning without succumbing to temptations like office snacks or fast food at lunch.

And one of the best go-to morning meals — we’re talking easy and delicious — is oatmeal.

But how do you keep what could be a pretty bland dish from getting boring?

8 Outdoor Activities to Enjoy the Healing Power of Nature

by Caitlin H,

Apr 30, 2024

Fresh air. Warm sunshine. Green leaves. Birds chirping happily. The sound of dirt crunching beneath your feet. There’s something uniquely restorative about spending time in nature.

Being outdoors has been shown to have a number of benefits for your mental and emotional health, like reducing stress and increasing your quality of sleep. Activities in nature are also a boon for your physical health, typically requiring movement and exercise, which can improve your cardiovascular and muscular health.

Need a suggestion to help motivate you to move outdoors? Whether you’re a fitness expert or are just looking to relax and collect some vitamin D, we have some ideas for you!

This Carbohydrate is a Boon for Reducing Belly Fat

by Caitlin H,

Apr 22, 2024

One of the biggest struggle areas many of us have is undoubtedly around our bellies. Belly fat often seems to be the quickest to burgeon and slowest to go away.

Unfortunately, studies show belly fat increases the risk of things like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. It also can be uncomfortable and make finding clothes that fit challenging.

Thankfully, there is good news for those of us who want to target this problematic area — and the solution may lie in boosting this carbohydrate. 

7 Heart-Pumping YouTube Dance Workouts

by Caitlin H,

Apr 15, 2024

If you’re looking for a fun fitness form that engages your entire body — and your mind! — look no further than dancing.

Dancing is one of the best heart-pumping ways to torch calories while simultaneously improving muscle tone, strength, balance, core strength, and joint health. Plus, your mind stays engaged and sharp as it learns choreography and keeps pace with the steps.

What’s more: This well-rounded, full-body workout is actually fun! Time flies as you whirl around and step to the beats, ensuring you’re not staring at the clock and watching the minutes tick by until the workout ends.

Ready to give it a shot?

Diet Derailed? Bounce Back With These Effective Strategies

by Caitlin H,

Apr 8, 2024

Many of us set out on a weight loss journey with all the passion, commitment, and dedication we need to succeed.

But then a day comes where we inevitably fall off the wagon and relapse into old poor eating habits, forgo our fitness classes, and just, kind of, give up.

What can you do to make it easier to jump back up on the wagon?

Our 8 Favorite Spring Side Dishes

by Caitlin H,

Apr 1, 2024

There’s something special about enjoying brightly colored food that looks just as pretty as the flowers, fruits, and veggies that sprout in spring.

Take advantage of this bountiful season by creating one of our 8 favorite spring side dishes — delicious items like roasted carrots, avocado deviled eggs, pasta salad, and more — all of which you can bring to any upcoming event to leave your guests feeling satisfied and asking for more.

Healthy Meal Delivery Works Best for These Types of People

by Caitlin H,

Mar 25, 2024

The healthy prepared meal delivery market has exploded in recent years. This market consists of companies that send customers fresh or frozen prepared meals that are individually portioned and aim to support a healthy diet. Most providers offer a range of meal plans for unique diets, such as vegetarian, low-carb, calorie-controlled, Mediterranean, and more. Convenience and the time-saving aspect of the meals are likely significant factors pushing the industry’s growth.

So, what types of people can potentially gain the most from freshly prepared, healthy meals delivered right to their door?

How to Enjoy Restaurants and Parties While Losing Weight

by Caitlin H,

Mar 18, 2024

Undertaking a weight loss journey means adjusting your diet and focusing on eating healthy meals. It also may mean incorporating regular fitness routines into your daily schedule. And it always means dedication and a commitment to a better lifestyle.

While there will be challenges along the way, one of the most significant you’ll likely face is navigating familiar social situations that typically involve eating out and diet-derailing food. The people who successfully lose weight learn how to navigate these social situations in a classy way that keeps them on track. And we can all learn something from how they do it.

Reduce Your Sugar Intake with These Tips

by Caitlin H,

Mar 11, 2024

Sugary foods are prevalent in our world. A staggering number of the packaged foods and beverages purchased by U.S. households contained added sugars. In addition, a large percentage of U.S. food supply products contain either caloric or low-calorie sweeteners.

With sugar being so prevalent in regularly purchased products, it may seem impossible to escape consuming high-sugar foods regularly, which can be problematic for your health. Experts say that eating foods with too much sugar can cause a host of issues.

So how can you reduce the amount of sugar you’re eating?

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This is often the time of year when many of us are counting down the days until daylight saving brings us longer days and spring brings warmer weather. Sometimes, the wait also brings with it feeling incredibly down, sad, and perhaps even depressed. And that’s more than understandable.

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When it comes to losing weight, there’s a certain exhilaration that hits you when you get on the scale and see that your first 10 pounds are gone.*

For people trying to lose 50 pounds or more, that first 10 pounds is a significant milestone. You’ll probably feel excited, flushed, and — hopefully — proud of your success. It’s confirmation that you can — and will — reach your goals.

And while the mental and emotional benefits are worth paying attention to, the physical benefits of losing 10 pounds are also quite impressive.

We broke down seven things that happen to your body immediately after losing 10 pounds — changes to keep top of mind along with the well-earned exhilaration to keep you motivated and going strong.

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by Caitlin H,

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You know that exercise is essential, with countless studies showcasing how it can improve everything from heart health to immunity, skin vitality, and more. But if you’re getting on in life, there’s a good chance you’ve noticed any movement becomes a bit more difficult the older you get — whether you’ve ever been an avid exerciser or not.

The reality is that while you should always strive to make exercise an integral part of your life, it’s going to look different at various stages in your life — and that’s more than okay.

We’re here to help you figure out what type of exercise might be appropriate for you to try!

7 Lifestyle Tips to Lower Bad Cholesterol

by Caitlin H,

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Cholesterol plays a vital role in your body, ensuring your body’s blood cells can replicate and you get essential vitamins.

But high cholesterol levels can have the opposite effect, increasing your risk of serious diseases that lead to strokes, heart attacks, and even death.

Wouldn’t you like to have a few easy lifestyle tips you can implement immediately to lower cholesterol levels and possibly add years to your life?

Perfect for a weeknight, make-ahead dinner, these Greek salmon quinoa bowls feature marinated, buttery salmon, fluffy quinoa, fresh greens, and a zesty Greek salad. Topped off with feta cheese and homemade tzatziki, these bowls are sure to satisfy and nourish!

Why I Love This Recipe

 This recipe is Mediterranean inspired, boasting a bright lemon-herb marinade, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, rich Kalamata olives, salty feta, and a refreshing homemade tzatziki.

My love for Mediterranean food has always been there but I definitely fell deeper for it after honeymooning in Greece. Give me all the fresh tzatziki and feta!

I’m always looking for ways to bring vibrant flavors into the kitchen and this recipe does just that. 

The flavors in this bowl pair together so well and it’s simple to make or even be prepped ahead of time. You can make the tzatziki, quinoa, and Greek salad ahead of time (think: Sunday when you have a little more time to spare). Then on a weeknight, an hour before you want to eat, marinate the salmon for 15-30 minutes, bake it for 20, and then assemble your bowls!

Speaking of time-savers, you could also cook the salmon one day in advance too and buy store-bought tzatziki! Cause, hey, life is busy, right?! As a working mama, I get it. We need efficiencies in the kitchen!

And have you noticed how family-friendly bowls are?! I’ve got a selective toddler at home and with recipes like these he can choose which components he likes, which he wants to try, and which he’s going to pass on. I present. He chooses. We move on.

Seriously this is one of my favorite dinners to whip up during the week. It’s hearty, satisfying, nourishing, and did I mention delicious?! 

Ingredients You’ll Need

Notes on Ingredients

salmon: has a buttery, rich flavor and pairs well with citrus tastes. 

olive oil: used to marinate the salmon and to enhance the flavor of the tzatziki sauce. 

lemon juice: provides the bright punch of acidity that compliments the salmon nicely in both the marinade and tzatziki. 

fresh oregano: a staple herb in Mediterranean cooking. If you don’t have fresh oregano, dried can work. 

fresh dill: has a tangy flavor that compliments the salmon perfectly and is highly aromatic. 

garlic: adds a punch of flavor to the marinade and tzatziki. 

Dijon mustard: adds a tangy, sharp flavor with a bit of spice and pairs well with the lemon juice in the marinade. 

honey: provides a subtle sweetness to the marinade. 

salt and pepper: essential flavor enhancers. 

quinoa: versatile grain that has a nutty, slightly earthy flavor. You can substitute for rice if you prefer. 

cherry tomatoes: adds a juicy, sweet taste to the dish. 

cucumber: provides a mild and refreshing taste to the tzatziki that balances out the garlic and lemon. 

red onion: sharp, pungent flavor, adds crunch and depth to the dish. 

Kalamata olives: add a rich, slightly salty taste. Kalamata olives are used commonly in Mediterranean cuisine. 

green bell pepper: gives a nice crunch and pop of color. 

mixed greens: bulk up the bowls and adds more freshness and crunch

crumbled feta: contributes a creamy texture and some saltiness. 

Greek yogurt: the primary ingredient to the tzatziki that adds a creamy texture to the dish. 

fresh mint: adds a bright and sharp flavor to the tzatziki. 

Nutrition Benefits of This Recipe

This dish is Mediterranean inspired and studies have found that a Mediterranean diet is associated with several health benefits like reduced incidences of cardiovascular outcomes and chronic diseases, improved immune function, and increased longevity. Mediterranean diets are characterized by a high intake of fruits and vegetables, legumes, whole grains, olive oil, and nuts.

Salmon, the main protein source of this bowl, is a great source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, B-vitamins, selenium, potassium, and antioxidants.

Quinoa, the starch or carb component of this meal, is a nutritious whole grain that is high in protein, fiber, folate, zinc, and magnesium. 

Equipment You’ll Need (affiliate links – if you make a purchase I receive a small commission)

Mixing Bowl

Whisk

How to Make Greek Salmon Quinoa Bowl

Prepare marinade. Whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, dill, garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small mixing bowl until emulsified.
Coat salmon. In a shallow bowl or large Ziploc, add salmon and pour half of marinade over. Let marinate for 15-30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Chop veggies. In a medium mixing bowl, add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives and green bell pepper. Pour remaining marinade over top and toss to coat.
Prepare tzatziki. Grate cucumber and squeeze out any excess water using a cheese cloth or clean dish towel. Add cucumber, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, dill, mint, olive oil and salt to a small bowl and whisk until combined.
Bake salmon and assemble bowls. Place salmon on parchment-lined baking sheet, discarding excess marinade, and bake at 325 degrees F until medium or until fork inserted into center of filet flakes easily, about 18-22 minutes. To assemble bowls, evenly divide quinoa, mixed greens, tomato salad, salmon, and feta between bowls. Serve with a dollop of tzatziki.

Expert Tips

To cook quinoa: in a small pot, bring 2/3 cup rinsed quinoa and 1 1/3 cups water to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to low for 15 minutes (or follow cooking instructions on package).
To meal prep: cook quinoa, make tzatziki, and assemble tomato salad ahead of time. You can also cook salmon one day in advance. The night of, simply assemble the bowls!
The salmon can be cooked in advance but I would only let it marinate for an hour at the most.
Buy premade tzatziki at the store for a time-saver!

Storage and Preparation

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

For meal prep: cook quinoa, assemble Greek salad, and make tzatziki ahead of time and store in separate containers. You can also cook the salmon one day in advance too (but I prefer cooking mine fresh the day of!). The night of, simply cook the salmon and assemble your bowls! Salmon can be marinated up to 1 hour in advance of cooking. 

Recipes That Pair Well

Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

Slow Cooker Greek Baked Beans

Air Fryer Cauliflower

Air Fryer Garlic Bread

For more quinoa inspiration, check out my other recipes below! 

Mediterranean Steak Grain Bowl

Vegan Chickpea Burgers

Middle Eastern Spiced Quinoa Salad with Eggplant and Pomegranate

Ancient Grains Bowl

Mushroom Black Bean Veggie Burger

If you like this recipe, please be sure to comment and give it a 5 star rating below. If you make it, share it on Instagram and tag me @karalydonrd and I’ll re-share it with my followers! If you want to save this recipe for later, be sure to pin it on Pinterest!

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