Healthy Cooking With Sun Basket

At the start of the new year, I set the goal of eating less meat, more organic produce and more locally sourced foods. I feel such a responsibility to not only eat better for myself and my family, but for the planet!

A little while back, I was just getting really bored of making the same ol’ meals; I’m also a full-time working mom, so dinners tend to be whatever I can whip up within 15-20 minutes. I wanted to find something that fit within my normal meal regime (gluten-free, lighter fare), but I also wanted to explore foods that I don’t normally cook with.

Say hello to Sun Basket!

My sister was actually the first person to rave about Sun Basket. I thought I’d give it a try and I’ve been hooked ever since. I love that you can get vegetarian, paleo, or gluten-free meals; meals that actually look and taste like you just ordered it at a restaurant. Not to mention, they are fun to put together! We all enjoy cooking the meals at our house (Parker even helps) and I’ve actually learned quite a bit (like how to do a perfect roasted piece of chicken or how to cut a beet- haha!). It makes for a fun family night.

This last time we got our delivery, we went with two “lean and clean” paleo meals and then one Friday night meal, a tofu burger with a chipotle mayo, carrot slaw, red peppers, and sprout.

So yummy!!

If you want to try out their meals, I can promise you that you won’t be sorry. They have given me a code that gives you 3 free meals, so grab your discount by clicking the link below and let me know how you like it!!

3 FREE MEALS WITH SUNBASKET

ENJOY! x

I only work with companies that I know and love. All opinions and text are my own.

DIY | Rose Salt Scrub

I don’t know about you guys, but a good body scrub is my best friend. I started using the one by Fresh when I was pregnant and I was hooked. Since then, I’ve tried a few others, but none really compare. Since the Fresh scrub is so pricey and because I’m a notorious over user when it comes to products, I tried to find one at a better price point but have yet to love one like I do theirs.

Here is what I don’t love about some scrubs: They don’t smell good enough. Or, they have way too much oil, not enough scrub (if you know what I mean). OR… they just have way too many crappy ingredients – no thanks!

So when I say that I just made an amazing homemade body scrub, I come from a very critical background.

And honestly, this is one heck of a body scrub that was so easy to make. You can head to a local natural food store for these ingredients or if you live in Portland, I bought these at Fettle (formerly The Herb Shoppe).

1 jar

1 cup hawaiian course sea salt

1/4 cup melted organic coconut oil

1 tbs apricot oil

2 tbs finely chopped dried rose pedals

6 drops of rose essential oil

*optional: add a few drops of lemon (energizing) or bergamot (uplifting) essential oil in the blend

Mix ingredients with a fork or spoon and store in an airtight container for up to two months.

A Weekend Away: The Oregon Coast

Last week Tyson and I, along with my sister and her fiance, all stayed at the cutest little house in Arch Cape. The weather forecast was rainy and stormy, so we packed the car up with board games, blankets and some good books. If you haven’t been to the Oregon coast in stormy weather, I highly suggest it!

We bundled up in the house, listened to music, played games, made some fancy cheese plates, and lit one of my sisters candles. Her “earthly dwellings” candle was a perfect fit to our night. And naturally, when you are in such a cute house, you take photos of everything. Like candles and dogs and such…

The next morning we woke up to a big break in the clouds and some sunshine and spent the morning drinking mimosa’s and walking along the beach…

The Oregon coast is always a good idea.

Until next time! x

Brasada Ranch Getaway

Last weekend Tyson, Parker and I grabbed both sets of Grandparents and headed to Brasada Ranch for some much needed relaxation. This place has been on my bucket list ever since I moved to Portland, so you can imagine the anticipation.

Prior to our stay, we organized our itinerary: horseback riding, golf for the guys, spa time for Tyson and I, and of course… as much time as possible at the pool. I packed my camera and some books, making a commitment to myself to be off social media (except to post the fun photos of course) and be away from my email. Trust me, you don’t want any distractions while you are there.

As we pulled up to the ranch retreat, we received our keys to our 3-bedroom cabin from the main lodge and headed to our “home” for the next few days. Pulling up to our cabin, I felt like it was too good to be true. We were greeted by chirping birds, sunshine, a light breeze and the smell of juniper and sage; a recipe for a great vacation.

After we all got settled in, the guys headed right out for their tee time.

These three guys were like teenage boys at an adventure park. With permanent smiles on their face, I think it is safe to say they enjoyed the world-class golf course, very much.

Meanwhile, my mom and I enjoyed some horseback riding.

hat: urban outfitters (similar) | scarf: urban outfitters | tank: topshop | sweater:

old navy | jeans: gap (similar)

We had the most amazing trail guide with us that day. She took us up and around the backside of Brasada where you get to see some great views of the mountains and soak up all the natural settings around you.

I find riding horses to be so peaceful.

The following day was spent swimming in the pool until our fingers pruned. Tyson insisted on taking Parker down the water slide. The overly cautious mom in me said, “heeeeck no,” but ended up giving in. Needless to say, Parker was safe and one ridiculously happy camper.

The pool at Brasada is EXACTLY what we have been looking for in the Northwest. I’m from San Diego where there is no shortage of awesome pools and it is something I’ve missed a lot since moving to Portland. If only Brasada were closer, you would find my family posted there all summer long!

Next stop after the pool was some spa time for Tyson and I. I haven’t been to a spa for a massage in a long time (I usually gravitate toward facial treatments), so this was SO needed. I opted for the Sleep Well massage, while Tyson chose the Athletic Recovery massage. I’m a pretty picky spa-goer (I worked at one for 6 years!), but I was incredibly impressed with the services. My massage felt so luxurious. They also have the coziest robes for you and the softest linens on the massage table. I’m a details person, so that meant a lot to me!

My husband went for more of a productive massage; he’s been pretty sore from running a lot and other lifting. He was so happy with his and felt like he got a lot out of it, which is exactly what he was hoping for.

One extra great touch? They brought us cocktails after our massages. I don’t think it gets better than that… ; )

The rest of the evening was spent hanging with our family. We all went out for dinner at Brasada’s Ranch House which was perfect for a family. I went for their special which was a shrimp risotto and devoured it. All of us were super impressed with the food.

One thing you have to do, is make sure you grab some of their packets of s’mores and head to the fire pit on the property at sunset.

A desert sunset is breathtaking.

I’m really looking forward to coming back to this place. In fact, our whole family is too. It’s one of those places that you want to keep as your summer family getaway every year. However, I kept telling everyone how I would love to see this place in the winter too. For such a kid-friendly place, you wouldn’t believe how peaceful it feels. We all fantasized about living on the property the whole time we were there, so I think it’s safe to say that we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

Until next time, Brasada! Thanks for the great memories ❤

Cauliflower "Rice" with Swiss Chard and Crimini Mushrooms

Ever since Trader Joes started selling the frozen organic riced cauliflower, I have been hooked! This is such a simple, lighter, starch-less option to pair with dinner and if made correctly, I would take this over actual rice any day.

Oh, and mom tip: It takes about 8 minutes to make (win!). I don’t have time for complicated meals anymore!

Anyway, have fun with this stuff! I mix up my cooking style with the “rice”, depending on what is in the fridge and what I feel like. I also love make it with turmeric and shaved brussel sprouts. And even better, Parker loves it too.

Cauliflower “Rice” with Swiss Chard and Crimini Mushrooms

1 bag of frozen cauliflower rice OR 1 head of cauliflower riced by food processor

2 C. swiss chard, chopped

1 C. crimini mushrooms, chopped

1 Tbs. grapeseed oil

1 Tsp. garlic powder

1 Tsp. sea salt + extra if needed

2 shakes of cayenne pepper

Directions:

Turn stove up to medium-high heat

Add cauliflower rice and mushrooms

Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over rice and mushrooms

Cook for about 5 minutes

Add in oil, then the swiss chard

Add in garlic, sea salt and cayenne

Cook until soft (about another 3-5 minutes)

Take a taste test to see if you need anymore salt

Turn off heat, serve and enjoy!

Healthy Food Guide: Portland

Well, it’s no secret that Portland is just about the best town there is when it comes to food. We pretty much have anything and everything here. Which also means a lot of healthy options, but also a lot of not so healthy ones.

Below, I’ve put together a list of my favorite healthy places to eat in Portland. And I give major props to this city for gluten-free and vegan options just about anywhere (even bars!).

Best Healthy Breakfast Spots

1. Prasad (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): Now with two locations, this place is SO good. The Classic Oatmeal or Chili Scramble is a must-try!

2. Kure (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): This place is another great option at any point during the day. Their juices and smoothies are SO tasty and packed with nutrients. My personal favorite is the Lush Life smoothie. I’ve also heard rave reviews about the Hangover Helper smoothie and that it will help you feel like a different person. I wouldn’t know, I’ve just heard about it… ; )

3. Bob’s Red Mill (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): Yes, this is at the HQ where they make all of the awesome Bob’s Red Mill products. I personally love the museli and yogurt, but there are loads of options and the food is extremely affordable.

4. Radio Room (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): Back in my single days, this spot was my favorite place to go on the weekend after a night out. They have a lot of options for carnivores and herbivores, as well as great gluten-free options. My go-to? The Classic Rocker Scramble and the pint Mimosa with blood orange (yes… I repeat… pint!). YUM.

5. Fern Kitchen (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): Tons of healthy, tasty options and they use all local and organic produce. I love the “Eggs Your Way” with tempeh and New Cascadia toast.

Best Healthy Lunch Spots

1. The Whole Bowl (Vegan/Gluten-Free): I think if I had to eat a single meal for the rest of my life, it might be this. And yes, there is just one bowl on the menu and you can order it “veganized” or “full loaded.” Either way, it is so dang good.

2. Harlow (Vegan/Gluten-Free): This is the sister to Prasad and just as tasty. I love their bowls; specifically the Urban Bowl. I also can’t leave there without ordering their Turmeric Toddy (hot). This place has a lot of space too, so I like to grab my computer and get some work done there from time to time.

3. Jade (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): Ahhh, this place! I honestly can’t say enough good things about this spot. This place is a unique twist on veitnamese and thai food, but it is so much lighter and healthier than most places. The Minced Chicken dish is my go-to. And you have to order the sweet rice with mango for afterwards. Mmm!

4. Garden Bar (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): If you are a salad-for-lunch kind of person, this will be your new favorite. The salads on the menu are great, but if you prefer to mix your own, you can do that too. The Bliss-Detox salad is excellent!

5. Cultured Caveman (Paleo): This place is a great spot, especially if you eat a paleo diet! I will warn you, it is pricier than most lunch spots, but well worth it. Make sure to grab some bone broth while you are there. They also have amazing chicken tenders for kiddos!

Best Healthy Dinner Spots

1. Bamboo Sushi (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): This is actually the first sustainable sushi restaurant in the world and let me just tell you, this spot is never a disappointment. Make sure when you visit, you order everything because everything is so delicious. I also really love their happy hour menu. It’s no wonder this place is so popular!

2. Farm Spirit (Vegan/Gluten-Free): This is a multiple-course dinner place, so you are going to have to reserve your spot and pay ahead of time. But don’t worry, this is totally worth it. You are not only getting incredible food that just so happens to be vegan, you get to enjoy an amazing culinary experience.

3. Andina (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): Talk about a culinary experience, Andina is just that. I recommend ordering a bunch of tapas to try. My favorites are the Quinoa Con Verduras and the Atun Fusion. They have a lot of fresh and healthy options, which is why I like it there so much. Oh yes, and don’t forget to order a Pico Sour! They are the BEST!

4. Park Kitchen (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): If you are looking for a great Northwest style cuisine, you won’t be disappointed here. They have plenty of healthy, seasonal options and a great happy hour.

5. Blossoming Lotus (Vegan/Gluten-Free): This place is deeeeelicious. I highly recommend the mac n’ cheese and a slice of raw cheesecake. Everything here is organic and vegan.

6. Higgins (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): Don’t be misled by the traditional decor; this place is great! It isn’t up there as the hippest spot in Portland, but this is a great, classic Portland restaurant and because of that, it has a lot of charm. They are known for their Northwest cuisine and using locally sourced ingredients. I recommend ordering their seasonal fish dishes.

7. Luc Lac (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): This place has, hands down, the BEST pho in town. I will just leave it at that!

Best Healthy Bars/Breweries:

1. Sweet Hereafter (Vegan/Gluten-Free): Ahhh, this place is great for a good drink and a vegan meal. Definitely not your typical bar food. My go-to? Old Fashioned with a Jamaican Bowl (ask for a brown rice tortilla on the side to make a burrito out of it).

2. Wilder (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): I love this place. It has a great date night vibe and the food is super tasty. It is the perfect spot to go if there are vegetarians and/or meat eaters in the group. What to order? Wilder burger and ask for it over polenta. And don’t forget to order one of their craft cocktails. There are so many good options.

3. Ground Breaker (Gluten-Free): This is a 100% gluten-free brewery. It also has some really great healthy food options for all dietary needs!

4. Bye & Bye (Vegan/Gluten-Free): I like to head here with a large group of friends. The food is super tasty, they have great vegan/gluten-free options, and the drinks are always strong. My drink of choice: Lefty’s Prayer. Food pick: Brussel bowl.

5. Interurban (Vegetarian/Gluten-Free): This is one of my favorite bars in Portland. They have the best old-fashioned’s and such great food. You can find a lighter meal here or a heavier one; either way, your belly will be happy : )

Best Dessert Spots:

1. Back to Eden (Vegan/Gluten-Free): This is my absolute favorite dessert spot in Portland. No matter what your food sensitivity might be, they have a dessert for you! My favorite? The dairy free yogurt in a gluten-free waffle cone.

2. Eb and Bean (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): You will not be disappointed here. This is an organic yogurt spot that also has some great dairy-free options.

3. Petunias (Vegan/Gluten-Free): This bakery is completely vegan and gluten-free, and is my go-to for office treats, birthday treats, etc. Their black and white cake is out of this world!

I am always on the search for new, healthy places to indulge. I will keep this list updated as I find new places. And as always, please share your favorites with me!

Watermelon, Arugula & Feta Summer Salad

I love mixing watermelon in salads during the summer. I know it might sound a little strange, but once you try it, I can assure you that you will like it! This particular salad is inspired by one of my favorite chef’s, Ina Garten, and is one of my go-to side dishes for summer parties. In fact, when I’m trying to make a sure-bet dish, I always turn Ina; she really is the best.

Watermelon, Arugula and Feta Summer Salad

6 C. arugula
2 C. seedless watermelon (diced in cubes)
1 C. crumbled feta
1 C. chopped mint leaves

For the dressing:

1/4 C. fresh squeezed orange juice
1/4 C. fresh squeezed lemon juice
1/2 C. olive oil
1/4 C. minced shallots
1 tbs. honey
1 tsp. coarse sea salt
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

Directions

In a medium size bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, oil, shallots, honey, salt, and pepper.

Place the arugula, watermelon, feta, and mint in a large bowl. Add in dressing (enough to coat the salad lightly). Add in extra sea salt or pepper if needed.

Enjoy!

Camping for the Weekend

With all this crap happening in the world, escaping for the weekend was exactly what I needed. I don’t know about you, but I literally can’t seem to think of much else lately. I’ve taken some time away from social media and the news, which has definitely helped. And while doing so, I’ve clung on to spending time with my family (my happiest place) and being outdoors (the runner up).

So without a question, a camping trip seemed like the most logical idea.

And I will say, all is right with the world in the secluded mountains : )

Oregon, you never disappoint.

The Longevity Book Giveaway

I’ve always loved Cameron Diaz for the obvious reasons: she’s beautiful, smart, talented and funny. But what has really impressed me about her, is how she has shed light on some really important topics.

When I read her first book, The Body Book, I thought; well flipping done! It was the best holistic and practical approach to health and happiness I had read in a long time. So, when The Longevity Book came out, I knew it would be a worthwhile read. And once again, she nailed it.

We all know that in today’s world there is a huge emphasis on age reversal. We hear about it just about everywhere; but in The Longevity Book, a new conversation is started. You’ll have to read this book to get the full dialogue (it’s seriously SO good), but I love that 1) It is encouraging a healthier embrace to the aging process and 2) It is a big reminder that just because you might look great on the outside, doesn’t mean that everything is great on the inside. As you probably already know, I am a firm believer in a mind/body approach to health and wellbeing and I am so impressed at how this book tackles that.

So, without further ado, this morning I am super excited to be teaming up with Cameron’s new book, The Longevity Book. They are kindly giving away a copy of the book to THREE lucky winners. Checkout how you can enter below!

The Longevity Book Giveaway

To enter, you need to complete the following:

1. Follow @thebodybook and @lindsaynead on instagram
2. Tag two friends in the giveaway post
3. For an extra entry, comment on the giveaway post and tell me what you are embracing most about aging.

The winner’s will be chosen by Sunday 7/10 and will be contacted through instagram DM!

GOOD LUCK ❤

High Protein Egg Muffins (With Arugula, Feta and Quinoa)

Recently, I have been putting some major effort into getting back in shape. It only took about a year and half to find the motivation after Parker was born, but HEY, gotta start somewhere. To be honest, I have actually really enjoyed the last year and a half of being relaxed about what I ate and a lot more lenient with working out. But, since I’ve got a lot of awesome things coming up (and some that might require a lot more photos of myself), I realize that I want to put some time into my body before that all happens.

Plus, summer.

With that said, I have been working on a plan with a trainer (which I will go into more details about later). My schedule is a bit crazy so I have been having to do more home workouts; but I’ve been working out 4-5 times a week. And as for my meals – I’m trying to keep everything in balance (protein- carbs- fats) for my personal body type and goals, which requires a lot of preparation. The hardest part for me is upping my protein count without a starch based protein (like beans, sweet potatoes, etc) and having to eat 5 times a day- it’s easy to run out of ideas!

These egg muffins however, have been a lifesaver! And even better, Parker LOVES them. They are packed with nutrients, simple to make and a perfect ratio of protein, carbs and fats. I like them as a snack or for a quick breakfast.

High Protein Egg Muffins

3 eggs

1 C. egg whites

2 Tbs. plain almond milk (or regular organic milk)

1 C. cooked quinoa

1 C. arugula

1/2 C. feta

1/2 C. chopped mushrooms

1/4 C. chives

sea salt + pepper to taste

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees
In a mixing bowl, combine the egg whites, eggs, milk and some salt and pepper (whisk well and set aside)
Spray muffin tins with oil (about 9)
Stuff the arugula, mushrooms, and chives evenly into each tin (not too full)
Add about a tablespoon of quinoa into each tin (over the veggies)
Then, sprinkle some feta on top of the mixture in each tin
(Alternatively, you can mix together all of the ingredients excluding the egg mixture, together in a bowl before placing them into the tin)
Gently mix together the ingredients in each tin
Divide and pour in egg mixture evenly over all 9 tins (filling just barely to the top)
Cook for about 20-30 minutes.

Enjoy!!