As we transition from a season of holiday foods and festivities into New Year’s goals and resolutions, we may be feeling a little more stressed, lacking of energy and have aspirations to feel lighter and leaner. Leaving the past year’s weight (not just the scale) behind, while making space for new.
Eating with the seasons is very beneficial in many ways. During the winter months, we often desire warm, heavier foods. We may still be craving sugar from the sweets and cocktails enjoyed during previous festivities. Food should not be about deprivation, but about nourishment. These recipes are a great combination of health, seasonal eating, heartfelt nourishment and ones that will accompany your new year goals. Enjoy these guilt free goodies while nourishing your body.
4 Simple Seasonal Recipes for Increased Energy, Weight Loss and Immune Support
BAKED PEARS WITH COCONUT MILK
Serves 2
- 2 large pears
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1⁄2 cup coconut milk
- 1⁄4 cup pumpkin seeds
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
Slice the pears in half and remove the core. Place the pears face up on a baking tray. Drizzle with coconut oil and cinnamon. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes until soft. Remove from the oven and serve with warm coconut milk and pumpkin seeds.
HEARTY WHITE BEAN SOUP
Serves 4
- 1 15-ounce can of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed 1 32-ounce box of vegetable broth
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 2 large carrots, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1⁄2 bunch kale, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- sea salt and black pepper to taste
Add cannellini beans, vegetable broth, celery, carrots, onion, and garlic to a large soup pot over high heat. When the broth comes to a boil, turn down the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft. Add the kale, sage, rosemary, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the kale is wilted.
IMMUNE BOOST SMOOTHIE
- 1 1⁄2 cups dairy dairy-free milk or water
- 1 cup kale
- 1 cup spinach
- 1⁄2 cup blueberries
- 1 tablespoon flax seed
- 1 tablespoon bee pollen
- Dash of ginger powder
Blend ingredients and top with bee pollen. Enjoy!
SPICED APRICOT BALLS
Makes about 10 balls
- 8 pitted dates
- 1 cup dried apricots
- 1⁄2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1⁄2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1⁄2 teaspoon nutmeg
Add all the ingredients to a blender or food processor. Blend until all the ingredients are mixed well. Form into balls and store in the refrigerator in an air-tight container.
