Garlic & Herb Cheesy Eggs with Avocado Toast

Breakfast is a time of the day when I really like to eat something filling and savory. This recipe is just that! It makes the perfect recipe for your brunch or lunch table for entertaining as well! With the garlic and herb flavors from the spreadable cheese paired with the creamy avocado and crunchy toast it is just perfection. This is also a great transitional recipe if you are re-starting a low carb lifestyle and slowly lowering your carbs. You can also customize this recipe with the cheese flavor you use, the toast brand, and how much avocado you prefer. 

Garlic and Herb Cheesy Eggs & Avocado Toast- Serves 1
1 egg
1 tsp heavy cream
1 Tbsp garlic & herb cheese spread, I use Alouette Brand or Boursin Brand
1/2 avocado
1 slice of your favorite toast, I use Daves Killer Bread (thin sliced)
salt
pepper
crushed red pepper flake (optional)
1/2 tbsp butter

Whisk together the egg, heavy cream and a pinch of salt and pepper.
In a small pan melt the butter and scramble the eggs to your liking. Then mix in the cheese spread and allow to warm up. Mix in the cheese with your eggs as it warms up.
Remove from heat.
Smear the avocado on top of your toast and season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper.
Top with your egg mixture and ENJOY!

Culinary Gift Guide 2019

Happy December!

Whether you need a gift for a foodie, recipe creator, or culinary lover in your life OR you have someone who needs some joy sparked into their kitchen I have a few gifts that will be sure to help you out with anyone on your list! I even included a few smaller gifts that I absolutely love in case you need a white elephant, secret Santa, or stocking stuffer. 

Ninja Coffee Bar!

I use this baby every day. There are SO many functions but not too many where I get overwhelmed and dont need or use them. I love making pots or cups of hot coffee or a travel iced coffee for the road. The east of setting the timer as well as cleaning this coffee maker make it #1 on my list

Mine (refurbished)

Latest Model

Cuisinart Food Processor

This food processor is amazing. It is super quiet, really does the job too. No big chunks of unpulsed food is ever left. This is one product where I think you should splurge and get one GOOD food processor. I cant recommend this one enough. All the parts can also be cleaned in the dishwasher and it has enough functions to be useful and not so many that it becomes confusing. 

Mine (PINK)

Latest Model

Emulsion Blender

Perfect gift for anyone who doesn't have one! I use this ALL the time. It is so much easier to blend sauces in the pan they were cooked in rather than having to transfer (and clean!) a blender. 

I also dont think you need to spend the big bucks on one of these. The one I have works perfectly and I love it!

Blender

Air Fryer

I use my air fryer every day- sometimes multiple times per day! Its so much quicker and easier than preheating and waiting for the oven. The effortless way it crisps up food is almost magical. I have a 5qt and a 7qt and I would recommend both! 

Mine

Latest Model

Non Stick Pans

If you haven't upgraded your nonstick pans in a few year treat yo self! I recently upgraded and I'm mad I didn't do it sooner. Pots and pans just dont last like they should. I say, buy them on sale and upgrade them when you need to. No reason to sacrifice your dishes because your pans are not up to par anymore. 

Full Set

Hand Held Spiralizer

Obsessed is not a strong enough word. The price point cannot be beat and this is another gadget you can throw right in the dishwasher. If this isn't stuffed into some stockings on your list, it definitely should be!

Spiralizer

Veggie Peeler

This peeler is a must have! It might sound like overkill, I already have peeler and it works just fine.... but does really though? Does your hand cramp while using it? Can it peel tough items like squashes? 

If you need an upgrade I love this one and cant recommend it nearly enough!

Veggie Peeler

Sil Pat - nonstick mat

This mat is like magic! Everyone should have at least one in their kitchen! I use this for cookies, vegetables, breakfast bombs, pizza bites... anything I want to bake on a baking sheet and that I dont want to stick. Super easy to clean and SO useful!

Sil Pat

Spice Jars

Love LOVE these jars. I've had them for years now and love how they not only organize my spices but also how well they keep them fresh. They also have a magnet so you can stick them to your fridge too! 

Spice Jars

FTC DISCLAIMER: This video and blog post are not sponsored. All opinions are my own. Products linked above may be affiliate links which means I earn a small commission. This does not affect you as a consumer. If you use my links I really appreciate you supporting me and my channel!

LOW CARB Taco Eggs

If you are a taco lover like myself, you will absolutely love this dish. I make tacos a lot for dinner which means I always have leftover taco meat. This is one of my favorite ways to use it up and make a filling, low carb meal! I say meal by the way because I eat this for breakfast, lunch OR even dinner! Whenever the craving hits! The best part is you can use your favorite cheese, your favorite salsa, or even add queso or guacamole or whatever toppings are your favorite!

Taco Eggs- Serves 1 
1/4-1/3 cup leftover taco meat (beef, chicken, or turkey seasoned with Taco Seasoning)
1 egg
1/2 Tbsp butter
1 Tbsp half and half
1/4 tsp Taco Seasoning
1/4 cup of your favorite cheese (I use a Mexican cheese blend)
Plus any toppings you choose!

In a bowl whisk together the egg, half and half and 1/4 tsp taco seasoning and set aside (add a pinch of salt if your taco seasoning doesn't have any in it)
In a skillet over medium high heat melt the butter.
Then add the taco meat and warm through, about 2 minutes.
Then pour the egg mixture over the top and scramble the eggs with the meat.
Then top with your cheese and mix in to melt.
Flatten your eggs to get the cheese crispy. Flatten and wait 1-2 minutes and then flip to crisp the other side.
Serve with your favorite topping!
I love salsa and sour cream with some chopped, pickled jalapeños! 
Enjoy!

DIY Yogurt Bark | LOW CARB Dessert!

Yogurt bark is all the rage right now BUT what I didn't realize until now is that this might be the most perfect low carb sweet treat EVER! You can customize this recipe to whatever you like as far as flavors and for whatever you have on hand. There are literally thousands of combinations so you can make any flavor-craving you are having at the moment. What I believe might just be the best part is you don't have to feel guilty because as long as you choose low carb ingredients you are good to go AND you're staying on track with your low carb lifestyle. This is the combination I used today but use whatever you like and have!

Yogurt Bark- Cherry, Almond, Chocolate- Serves 1

1 container of Oikos Triple Zero Yogurt, Cherry Flavor

3 Tbsp chopped raw almonds

3 Tbsp low sugar, no sugar chocolate chips

I used a 15 oz ramekin lined with a piece of parchment paper. 

Scoop in the yogurt and smooth into an even layer with a spatula.

Then top with all of your toppings. Lightly push in the toppings so they are submerged in the yogurt. 

Freeze uncovered for at least 4 hours.

When you are ready to eat allow to sit at room temperature for at least 5 minutes then break apart into chunks and ENJOY!

*UPDATED*

I recently made this recipe using Keto Ratio yogurt for more protein!

18g of protein for the whole recipe!

Coconut Cashew Yogurt Bark:

1 container of Keto Ration Yogurt- coconut flavor

2 Tbsp unsweetened coconut flakes

1/4 cut raw cashews, chopped

Combine the yogurt and coconut flakes. Then stir in 1/2 the cashews. Smooth into a small ramekin like THIS thats been lined with parchment paper and freeze for a few hours or overnight. 

Run the bottom of the ramekin under hot water to loosen the bark. Remove and break into pieces. 

Old Fashion Daiquiri

*Some of the link that appear on my page may be affiliate links for Amazon. It does not affect you as the consumer but I may make a small commission off the purchase. #paidads 

It's been awhile since I have posted a cocktail but we are right in the middle of Summer and I thought it was a good time to post the best Summer cocktail ever! With only a few ingredients this one is easy to make but oh so delicious! Use a good quality white rum and definitely use fresh lime juice- it makes a difference, and make your own simple syrup. That will ensure a great cocktail the first time and every time.

Old Fashion Daiquiri- makes 1
8-10 ice cubes
2 oz of white rum
1 oz lime juice
1 oz simple syrup (recipe below)
lime slice for garnish
martini glass

To make a batch of simple syrup combine 1 cup of water with 1/2 cup of Swerve Sweetener in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves. Remove from the heat, allow to cool then add to a mason jar or a tuber ware and keep in the fridge.

Chill a martini glass by filling it with ice and cold water. Let it sit as you make the cocktail.

In a shaker add the ice cubes, rum, lime juice, and simple syrup. Shake for 20 seconds.
Spill out the cold water from your martini glass. Pour the mixture through the strainer into the martini glass and garnish with a slice of lime.

*Tips*
- If this is not strong enough add another 1 oz of rum.
- If this drink is too strong mix in some plain club soda until you get the desired strength.
ENJOY!

LOW CARB Chick-Fil-A

Chick-Fil-A has always been a favorite of mine. The best part is that I can get so many low carb options here. I just stay away from the buns, fries, and shakes and I'm golden! You're probably thinking.. no buns, fries, or shakes... what's left?! Well, there are quite a few options and they are ALL delicious! Here are some options on what to order:

Original Chicken Nuggets- 1 gram of carbs each. Order in quantities of 4, 6, 8, or 12 depending on how many carbs you allot for your meal

Original Chicken Sandwich Deluxe (no bun)- 10 grams of carbs. Crispy chicken, cheese, tomato, and lettuce.

Grilled Chicken Sandwich Deluxe (no bun)- 3 grams of carbs. Grilled chicken, cheese, tomato, and lettuce.

Grilled Chicken Nuggets- quantity 4 are 1 gram of carbs. Quantity 6 or 8 are 2 grams of carbs!

Side Salad- 8 grams of carbs. I can't seem to find out if that includes the crispy red pepper "croutons" they give on the side. I will update once I find out.

Salad Dressings- Ranch 2 grams of carbs or light Italian 3 grams of carbs are my 2 favorites!

Dipping Sauces- Mayo is 0 carbs. Zesty Buffalo is 1 gram of carbs. Ranch is 2 grams of carbs. If you can handle the carbs go for the Chick-Fil-A sauce- my absolute favorite but it will cost ya 6 grams of carbs per container.

Drinks- My go to is Coke Zero. I will occasionally get Diet Dr Pepper or a water. You can also grab a small Diet Lemonade for 4 grams of carbs... it is delish!! Really great tasting lemonade if you are craving a low carb lemonade that doesn't taste low carb AT ALL!

*No-Bun-Please Link*

LOW CARB KFC!

Another episode for ya for what to order while your out and about and need to get some fast food or sit down at a popular restaurant. This time I went to KFC. Let me tell you I did not have high hopes. I really didn't. The last time I was at KFC I got the original fried chicken and I hate to say this but it wasn't that good. This time I went in hoping to find some low carb options and I ordered the grilled chicken and boy was it amazing!! The skin was seasoned perfectly and the chicken was super tender. The skin actually was cooked so well that it felt like I was eating a lightly breaded chicken. But I definitely wasn't. The grilled chicken options at KFC are all 0 grams of carbs for each piece!!

I ordered 2 grilled chicken thighs and an individual side of green beans.
Nutritional facts:
325 calories
4 grams of carbs
18 grams of fat
35 grams of protein
2 grams of fiber
2 NET CARBS

The green beans were also surprisingly delicious!! Check out my video above for my honest reaction to the meal and to get a couple more facts about KFC and ordering low carb.

The website that I get my fast food info from is No Bun Please
You can also go to the meal calculator from KFC to see how many carbs are in the meals you enjoy!

Where should I go next?!

Italian Sandwich Frittata LOW CARB

Another amazing meal prep for any meal of the day right here. I am all about meal prepping for a few hours on Sundays so I can stay on track during the week. Don't get me wrong, I love cooking but with the fast pace of life these days I am so thankful when I can pull something already prepped out of the fridge, heat it up, enjoy it and then get back to life.  Eating on the go and meal prep doesn't have to be tasteless and blah though- don't forget that! You can have a delicious meal waiting for you- you just have to choose the right recipes and give yourself options. This recipe is perfect for any meal of the day. Why? Well, I will tell ya! It is a recipe for all the flavors of an Italian Cheesesteak but they are packed into a frittata that you can take on the go and stay on track with a low carb lifestyle. If you're not a fan of frittatas then you could also put these into muffin cups and enjoy then that way. I also have a lot of people say they are not a fan of reheated (or any) egg. Well I hear ya and I agree HA! That is why I fill my frittatas and egg cups with a lot to the filler and really only have the egg as the binder that keeps everything together. I hope you love this one because we definitely do!!!

Italian Sandwich Frittata- Makes 5 servings
7 eggs
2 Tbsp half and half OR heavy cream
10 oz Steak Umms meat, cooked
5oz fresh mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup banana peppers
4 Tbsp pizza sauce, plus more for dipping- I use Raos
Salt and Pepper to taste

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.
Then in a medium skillet cook the steak umms meat until it is all browned and no longer pink.
VERY important- drain the meat well. You can even remove to a paper towel to soak up some of the residual grease.
Whisk together the eggs, half and half, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Spray a 9 inch pie plate with cooking spray and layer in the cooked meat and banana peppers. Then pour the egg mixture over.
Slice the mozzarella and top the frittata evenly. Using a fork submerge each slice of cheese into the egg so it is well coated.
Then top with the pizza sauce.
Bake for 25 minutes.
Allow to rest for at least 3 minutes before you serve. If you are meal prepping allow it to cool slightly and then package up with extra pizza sauce for dipping on the side.
Enjoy!

Nutritional Facts Per Serving:

400 calories

23 grams of protein 

2.2 grams of carbs

0 grams of fiber

Fajita Chicken LOW CARB

The easiest meal prep with the tastiest flavor! Isn't it the best feeling when you know you have a delicious lunch waiting for you while you're at work or you have a quick meal you can heat up on the go or while you're home? I am always looking forward to my next meal so when I know I have some fajita chicken in the fridge, I'm a happy girl! This is not authentic and it's definitely just following the directions on the seasoning packet BUT I have a few ways to make this perfect and I hope you add it to your meal prep really soon.

Fajita Chicken- Makes 4 servings
1 lb chicken breast cut into thin, small pieces
1 cup of bell pepper sliced thin
1 cup of white onion cut into thin half moons or diced
1 packet of Fajita Seasoning or 1/3 cup of homemade Fajita Seasoning
1/3 cup water
2 Tbsp olive oil

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat.
Once the oil is very hot add in the chicken. Spread to a single layer.
Allow the chicken to cook for 3 minutes.
Flip chicken pieces over to cook an additional 2-3 minutes until cooked through.
Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside making sure to reserve the oil in the pan.
There should be 1 tbsp of oil still in the pan, add more if needed.
Over medium high heat add in the onions and the peppers.
Cook them for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are soft and well browned.
Add the chicken back in and turn down the heat to medium.
Sprinkle the fajita seasoning over the chicken and the veggies. Give everything a good mix.
Add in the water and stir well.

Allow to bubble and thicken for 1-2 minutes.
Then you are ready to serve! Enjoy!

Nutritional Facts per serving

Not including toppings

180 calories

27 grams of protein 

10 grams of net carbs

Low Carb Pizzeria Order

Ok how many of you reading this have ever been in this situation: you look at the clock and its 5:30 pm... you don't feel like cooking, you don't feel like cleaning up the kitchen after cooking, you want to order something to be delivered to your house thats not going to ruin your low carb diet. Anyone? You definitely have options and that is what this blog post and video above is ALL about today!  I have been ordering from pizza places for years! All while keeping strict to my low carb diet. There are quite a few options if you really look at the menu and try not to be too upset over not ordering pizza.

Here are the options I mentioned in the video!

*Wings! Make sure they are not breaded but you can order wings plain, with buffalo sauce, or my fav- garlic parmesan! They taste like garlic bread and are just delicious!

*Burgers! I know, why would I get a burger from a pizza place? I actually love the burgers at pizza places. The meat that the restaurant is using is already top quality for the meatballs and pizzas so why would you expect anything less for a burger? It really is good! My favorite is a California cheeseburger with avocado, no bun. Delish!

*Cheesesteaks! No guy, I'm not crazy... I order cheesesteaks all the time and I just use the roll as a bowl ha I don't eat the bread I just use a fork and eat the meat inside! Pizzeria cheesesteak meat is usually the best of the best so the meat just melts in your mouth! I like to get a California cheesesteak with lettuce, tomato, onion, and mayo. YUM!

*Salads: My go-to is always an antipasto salad. Kinda of like an Italian sub in a bowl! It's perfect with some Italian dressing and I love it!
-The other salad I always get is a chicken Caesar salad. The combo is just absolutely fabulous!

Let me know what you like to order from your neighborhood pizza joint!

LOW CARB Burger King!

You can still go out to eat and to the drive thru and stay on track with a low carb diet! 

The key is knowing what to order! I started a new series on my YouTube channel for "Eating Out Low Carb" to help everyone out and to show you what I like to order at certain restaurants and fast food joints hehe

This video is for Burger King! Probably my favorite drive thru... just amazing burgers. Am I right?

Check out the video above! You'll see that I ordered a Double Whopper with Cheese and no bun.

The nutritional facts for what I ordered:

720 calories

56 grams of fat

9 grams of carbs

1 gram of fiber

40 grams of protein

Check out NO BUN PLEASE to get more ideas for what to order and other restaurants' carb info!

low carb Mexican Rice

I have been craving all dishes that are Mexican inspired lately. I just cant get enough taco salads and burrito bowls and fajita chicken... Mexican cheese and sour cream and pickled jalapeños.... like I seriously am addicted!!! To go along side or underneath all of these awesome dishes I needed a bomb Mexican rice. This is not authentic by any means BUT it is delicious and it's super easy and totally customizable so I hope that makes up for the fact that it is not at all authentic.
Use your favorite salsa and go to town!!! This versatile dish is even perfect with rice, just sub some cooked rice for the cauliflower. You can please everyone with this dish! It almost sounds too easy... but its seriously a game changer for all you Mexican cravings!

low carb Mexican Rice- Serves 4 (1 cup per serving)
4 cups of riced cauliflower
1 green onion (aka scallion), sliced thin with b green and white separated
1/2 cup low carb salsa, I use Frontera Brand
1 Tbsp of butter, divided
1 Tbsp taco seasoning, get my recipe HERE)

Melt 1/2 Tbsp of butter over medium high heat.
Add in the white part of the scallion and stir.
After one minute add in the riced cauliflower and stir.
Add in another 1/2 Tbsp of butter and stir
Then add in the taco seasoning. Stir well to incorporate.
Cook for 3 minutes.
Add in the salsa, stir and cook for another 3 minutes. This helps cook out the raw cauliflower taste.
Top with the green top of the scallion and serve!
Enjoy!

Nutritional Facts 

Per Serving:

56 Calories

2.2 Grams of Protein

2 Grams of Carbs

*this is the nutritional facts for exactly the ingredients I used. If you use different salsa I encourage you to use the My Fitness Pal app to figure out the exact macros for your dish*

Other recipes you might like!

*Garlic & Pea Cauliflower Rice

*Cilantro Lime Cauli-Rice

*THE BEST DISH EVER*Low Carb Rice-A-Roni

* Cauliflower Fried Rice

*Low Carb Basil Coconut Rice

Eggplant Pizzas

Craving pizza again? Ya, me too. LOL
Don't derail your diet journey- just make these eggplant pizzas instead! You might already have all the ingredients on hand! If you think you might not like this recipe for whatever reason- eggplant skin, small portion, thick cut eggplant.... just make it and thank me later. If you follow my directions for this one I promise you'll love it. Oh yea and I didn't invent this. It's a recipe that's all over the internet. BUT I think I've cracked the code to making them taste amazing every time! I hope you love em too!

Eggplant Pizzas- 1 Serving
4 slices of eggplant- cut 1/2 inch thick (about 7 ounces total)
2 Tbsp marinara sauce
4 Tbsp shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
garlic powder
onion powder
Italian seasoning
Salt
Pepper
chopped parsley for garnish

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
Line a baking sheet with tin foil and lightly spray with cooking spray.
lay the eggplant circles on the baking tray and brush with olive oil then sprinkle with salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Flip the eggplant and brush with olive oil and season the other side with spices.
Bake for 18 minutes.
After they are finished remove from the oven and top with 1/2 Tbsp each of marinara sauce and then 1 Tbsp each of mozzarella cheese.
Broil for 4 minutes but watch them closely so they don't burn. Depending on your oven you might need more or less time.
Top with some chopped parsley and ENJOY!

Nutritional Facts:

For the entire recipe

217 calories

8.5 net grams of carbs

8.8 grams of protein

Ham, Egg, n Cheese Cups LOW CARB

This recipe is all over Pinterest, I did not make this up but I DO think I have perfected it. With a few helpful tips I wanted to make sure these came out perfect for YOU the first time and every time. These cups are perfect for meal prep, a brunch, a snack, or breakfast for 1. Watch the video above to get all my tips and tricks and follow the recipe below to recreate them at your house!

Ham Egg n Cheese Cups- Makes 2 cups
2 thin slices of ham deli meat
1 slice of American Cheese OR 2 Tbsp of your favorite shredded cheese
2 large eggs
Salt
Pepper
Onion Powder

Take out your ham, cheese, and egg and allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes while the oven heats up.
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees and grease your muffin tin.
Once the oven is preheated then assemble your cups (video will give further instruction).
Place the ham in your muffin tin and form to shape the cup. Tuck in any pieces sticking up- they will burn. Then put in your cheese. If using American I like to use half a slice folded in half.
Next, crack in your egg carefully so you
dont break the yolk. Then sprinkle on salt, pepper, and onion powder. A dusting of each one does the trick.
Then depending on how cooked you like your yolk, follow the cooking times below:
15 Minutes= Runny Yolk
17 Minutes= Semi-solid, still runny yolk in the center
18 1/2 minutes= how mine looked in the video, fully cooked yolk, middle is still a little "jelly"
20 minutes= a solid cooked yolk all the way through

ENJOY!!!

Nutritional Information:

For 2 Egg Cups

208 Calories

1.7 Grams of Carbs (no fiber)

15.5 Grams of Protein

low carb Savory Broccoli & Bacon Frittata

It is very seldom that I hear my husband crave a meal prep two weeks in a row... but folks, this was a recipe he wanted to have for his breakfast at work not just one week but two weeks in a row. I bring you my Savory Broccoli & Bacon frittata! featuring smoked gruyere cheese, dried thyme and nutmeg. This frittata is perfect for any meal- it is perfection for meal prep- just make it and then me later. Normally I would say use whatever ingredients you like and have however, this time I urge you to make it exactly as it is written. Each ingredient is necessary and all the ingredients together build such a tremendous flavor profile I wouldn't want you to switch it up and be disappointed. I hope you enjoy and by the way- what a perfect edition this would be to your Fathers Day brunch!

Savory Broccoli & Bacon Frittata- Serves 5
1 cup broccoli florets, chopped into bite size pieces
6 slices of cooked bacon, broken into bitesize bits
1/2 cup thinly slices onion
1 Tbsp finely chopped (or grated) garlic
1/2 cup smoked gruyere cheese
1/4 tsp dried thyme
1/8 tsp nutmeg
7 eggs
2 Tbsp half and half
Salt and Pepper to taste

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees
Combine the egg, half and half, dried thyme, and nutmeg. Add in a pinch of salt and pepper.
Whisk until well combined. Set aside.
Grease a 9 inch pie plate with cooking spray.
Layer in the onions, garlic, broccoli, and bacon.
Pour the egg mixture over the veggies. Make sure to coat the mixture in the egg.
Top with the gruyere cheese.
Bake for 25 minutes.
Let sit for about 5 minutes before serving.
If you are making this dish for meal prep I would advise to let it cool for about 15 minutes then cut it into portions and keep refrigerated until you are ready to eat. ENJOY!

Nutritional Information:

Per Serving:

185 Calories

14 Grams of Protein

2.5 Grams Net Carbs

Keto Ice Cream!

I can finally say I have found the most amazing ice cream that is Keto and LOW CARB friendly!!!
If you are like me and with the Summer upon us you're craving ice cream then you need to check out Rebel Creamery! The crazy thing is this is not only just keto and low carb friendly, it's probably the best ice cream I've ever eaten. There's no weird aftertaste, no chalky flavor, and the ice cream is super creamy - almost like velvet. The chocolate chips in the ice creams I have tried have the most amazing chocolate taste. It tastes how chocolate SHOULD taste. It's incredibly rich and melts right in your mouth. When I was eating this ice cream I actually felt guilty... guilty because there was no way this could be low carb with the way it tasted. I was actually blown away. I urge anyone living a Keto or Low Carb lifestyle to check out this brand. I fully stand behind them as a company because they are doing it right and they are literally helping me live my lifestyle! That's the best part about living Low Carb - I am able to find healthy alternatives to my cravings and to everyday food. That is my main reason for this blog and what I try to do every day in my life!  Check out my video above to watch me taste test a few flavors on camera- I had so much fun filming that video and hope you all enjoy it too!

Flavors I tried and loved: Mint Chip, Peanut Butter Fudge, Cookie Dough, and Coffee Chip. All are phenomenal!!!!

Coffee Chip (left), Cookie Dough (right)

Copycat SUJA Lemon Love Drink

Here's my version of the Suja Lemon Love drink that I am quite obsessed with. To clarify I'm obsessed with the flavor but not the price tag. I was able to get mine on sale for 2 for $5.00 but the regular price of a 12 oz bottle is $3.99 in my grocery store. Since the ingredients seemed simple enough I thought I would try to recreate this one at home not only to save a buck but because I am all about that instant gratification life and if I want it, I want to be able to make it!
What does this taste like? Think a sweet and spicy lemonade! Completely refreshing and perfect for Summer.

Copycat Suja Lemon Love
Sweet & Spicy Lemonade  - Serves 1
1 1/2 cups of cold water 10 drops liquid sweetener (more or less to taste) 1 1/2 lemons juiced 1/16 tsp ground cayenne pepper (more or less to taste)

Mix everything together and ENJOY this wonderful sweet and spicy lemonade!

*Remember to make it to your liking- if this recipe is not spicy enough, add more cayenne. If you prefer sweeter lemonade, add more of your favorite liquid sweetener.

Click HERE to get more info on the Suja original!

The Best Roasted Butternut Squash EVER!

When I wrote that title I meant it! This is the best!!! Not only because it's delicious but it's also simple and easy to make and the ingredient list is super short. Don't let the chopping of a butternut squash deter you from making this recipe. Most grocery stores already have one chopped up for you! What I'm trying to say is- whatever you have to do to make this recipe just do it...
Watch the video above to see exactly how I chop up my squash and how much seasoning I use. Each squash is going to be a different size so the spice amount I list below are to be used as a guide. When seasoning your squash just make sure to get a nice, thin layer of seasoning onto all of your pieces and you will be good to go!

Roasted Butternut Squash
1 butternut squash (Around 2 lbs)
1 1/2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
non-stick cooking spray

Preheat oven to 415 degrees.
Spray a large cookie sheet with non-stick spray.
Peel the squash, cut off the ends, cut in half, and remove the seeds.
Then cut each half into half moon shapes. Cut each half moon into 3 strips and then curt each strip into cubes. (Watch the video above for clarification)
Arrange the cubes of squash onto a baking sheet in a single layer.
Drizzle on the olive oil then sprinkle on salt and pepper, and then the garlic powder and chili powder.
Toss with clean hands and arrange again in a single layer.
Put into a 415 degree oven for 15 minutes.
Take out and toss with a spatula and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes (30 minutes total).
Let cook slightly and then ENJOY!

 Nutritional Facts 

for 1 cup

103 Calories

13.5 Net Carbs

1.5 Grams of Protein

Low Carb Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

Get ready for my favorite recipe of the moment! Every single ingredient in this dish is on my favorites list. You've got your cheese, chicken, and of course garlic n butttta. SO. GOOD. If I was telling you about this recipe in person I would probably say "I cant even..." because I say that for everything in life that is phenomenal and amazing. I cant even- because I cant even believe I'm eating this and it is low carb. Please try it and let me know how much you love it too!

Notes about this recipe- I didn't use pasta- I used zucchini noodles BUT You could totally use any kind of pasta or veggie noodle of your choice and the dish would be just as amazing.
*If you need more servings just multiple by how many people you need to feed! It's that easy!
*Red pepper flake is optional but oh so tasty. The amount in this recipe will give you a subtle burn at the end of each bite.
*The amount of garlic I used is how much I like and I love garlic. Use a little less if you're not as big of a fan.

Low Carb Garlic Butter Pasta- Serves 1
1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 Tbsp unsalted butter- divided in half (I use Kerrygold)
1 1/2 Tbsp chopped garlic
3 oz cooked chicken, cut into bite size pieces (I used grilled chicken I had prepped but you could use rotisserie too)
2 cups zucchini noodles (Or 2 cups of any pasta you would like)
1 oz fresh mozzarella
1/4 tsp red pepper flake (optional)
Pinch of dried oregano
Parmesan cheese for topping

In a large skillet add the olive oil and 1/2 tbsp of butter. Then turn on the heat to medium.
Immediately after turning the heat on add the garlic and red pepper flake. (By adding it now the flavor of the garlic and pepper flake will infuse into the butter and oil)
Within a minute everything will begin to bubble. Then add in the chopped, cooked chicken.
Stir everything and allow the chicken to warm for about 30 seconds.
Next, add the zucchini noodles. Sprinkle with a pinch of oregano and some salt and pepper to taste.
Stir everything together and allow to warm through for 30 more seconds.
Then top the mixture with the mozzarella cheese and cover for 3 minutes.
Top with some parmesan cheese and you are ready to go! Enjoy!

Nutritional Facts:

Per Serving (before adding any parmesan)

415 Calories

24 Grams of Protein

7.8 Net Grams of Carbs

Intermittent Fasting Routine & What I Eat in a Day

*May 2019*

My fasting window is 7pm-11am (when I DONT eat)

My eating window is 11am-7pm (When I DO eat)

Before 11am:
1 or 2 Cruise Control Coffees
This is how I make mine:
Brewed coffee, 1 Tbsp unsalted Kerrygold butter, sprinkle of pink Himalayan sea salt, 1 tsp of MCT oil, and 1 Tbsp Heavy Cream

11am: small snack to break the fast

3-5 macadamia nuts 

12:15pm: Lunch

 Today I had a nourish bowl

 1 cup roasted butternut squash, 3 oz grilled chicken, 1 cup of spinach with 1/2 tsp extra virgin olive oil and 1/2 tsp balsamic vinegar

3pm: Snack 

3 Tbsp whipped cream, 4 chopped raw almonds, 2 Tbsp almond butter

6:30pm: Dinner 

Tomato, fresh mozzarella, basil leaves with salt, pepper and balsamic drizzled on top

*Water with a sprinkle of Himalayan sea salt and 1/2 of a lemon juiced OR club soda with 1/2 a lemon and 1/2 a lime juiced.

*No wine but if I did have wine I would have had 1 or two 4 oz glasses at most of red wine.
My favorite is a blend by 19 Crimes. I would finish all wine the same time as my food so none after 7pm.

As my diet evolves I will update you again with what I am eating each day! Subscribe to my youtube channel and this blog so you don't miss any updates or new recipes!

Crockpot Mexican Chicken Chili

Happy New Year Everyone!

My first official post of 2019 is a recipe that I think I have made 17 times in the past 2 months... no joke. This chili just doesn't get old. I love making it for meal prep because working from home with a 10 month old does not mean that I have to miss out on a great comfort food lunch. I can pop a bowl in the microwave and in a matter of minutes I have a hot lunch that keeps me on track with my low carb lifestyle. The best part is, when I am creating crock pot recipes I want throw everything in. I mean I need to have absolutely NO prep work at all. 

Well this one is another no prep, easy, crockpot, low carb masterpiece! 

Another thing I'd like to mention- this recipe is totally customizable- use mild salsa or use hot salsa for a spicy chili. Use black olives, use green olives- whatever you enjoy. I have made this so many different ways depending on what I have in my fridge and it's delicious every time.

#newyearsameme 

Crockpot Mexican Chicken Chili- makes 6 servings
24 oz jar of salsa (to stay low carb make sure the salsa is less than 2 grams of net carbs per serving)
1/4 cup water
1 cup chicken stock
1 Tbsp taco seasoning
1 can green chiles (4 oz)
1 can olives (14.5oz or about 1 1/2 cups)- green or black, whole or sliced (whatever you like!)
1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
4 oz cream cheese, cut into cubes

Turn your crockpot onto high and add in the salsa, water, green chiles, olives and chicken stock, stir.
Then put the chicken in and sprinkle on the taco seasoning.
Cook on high for 6 hours.
After that, remove the chicken and shred it with 2 forks.
Before you add the chicken back in, add in your cream cheese and stir. Give it a minute for the cream cheese to start to melt and stir again. Then add in the shredded chicken and put the lid back on for another 10 minutes to warm everything through.
At this point you can serve the chili or you can put the crock pot on a warm setting until you're ready to serve!
I like to serve this in a bowl topped with sour cream, shredded cheddar, shredded lettuce and sliced green onion!
Enjoy!