Tag Archives: nut-free

  1. Cassava Flour Paleo Brownies {nut-free, gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free}

    These Cassava Flour Paleo Brownies are allergen-friendly being nut-free, gluten and grain free, refined sugar-free along with dairy-free. These fudgy, rich brownies feature both cacao powder and melted dark chocolate you are gonna love these rich, ooey gooey, chewy grain-free paleo brownies!!

    Cassava Flour Paleo Brownies {nut-free, gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free}

    Cassava Flour Paleo Brownies {nut-free, gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free}

    Are you a brownie lover? I wasn’t growing up, but I sure am now! I LOVE a dark chocolate, fudgy, double chocolate chip brownie. Growing up my mom never made desserts from scratch. It was always a boxed brownie mix with water, eggs, and vegetable oil. There is nothing wrong with that if it’s your jam but learning more about nutrition and the value that ingredients can provide in terms of nutrients, I wanted to make a healthier version. This is a simple recipe that is allergen-friendly and more importantly delicious!  Once I realized that I don’t enjoy the overly sweet brownie recipes, I started testing with different sugars, different types of chocolate, and flour alternatives.

    Who would have thought that all purpose flour, almond flour, and cassava flour would yield such different results! The major concern for me was it needed to be gluten-free. The second concern was the amount of sugar. I really don’t do well with a lot of sugar, buttttt if you want a brownie, you need sugar to get that crinkly top. So, you will see 1 full cup of coconut sugar in this recipe but overall, it is what completes this brownie. You can always remove some of the sugar, just remember that altering the recipe will yield different results.  

    Cassava Flour Paleo Brownies {nut-free, gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free}

    Good news for you we have our very own Tasty Yummies Raw Organic Coconut Sugar! One of the other positives for using coconut sugar is that it has been shown to have a lower glycemic index. What does that mean? It means that coconut sugar has been shown in some studies to have less of an impact on your blood sugar. It may help with not getting or feeling that sugar rush and then a crash twenty minutes later. Everyone has a different reaction to sugar, but with using a sugar that is less processed can be more beneficial than using refined sugars.  

    Read the rest of this entry »

  2. Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Chicken Meatballs {Gluten-free, Grain-free, Keto options for Dairy-free)

    These Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Chicken Meatballs are the perfect, easy-to-make protein you can batch prep / make in bulk and use throughout the week a variety of different delicious ways. With so much versatility and being gluten and grain-free, keto-friendly and very easy to make dairy-free these will definitely become a staple for your family!

    Roasted Pepper and Goat Cheese Chicken Meatballs {Gluten Free, Grain-free, Keto with options for Dairy Free & Whole30}

    Roasted Pepper and Goat Cheese Chicken Meatballs {Gluten Free, Grain-free, Keto with options for Dairy Free & Whole30}

    Meal prepping has been making life so much easier lately. I’m not a person who can eat the same thing three or four days in a row. I need variety! Also, as the seasons are changing, I’ve been craving some lighter foods and lots of vegetables. I’m not sure where my original inspiration came for these Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Chicken Meatballs, but I am glad that vision came and I think you are going to love this new recipe! 

    Read the rest of this entry »

  3. Gluten-free Butter Cookies (Dairy-free option)

    These Gluten-free Butter cookies are a classic simple recipe that can be made during any time of the year but are special to us during the winter holiday season. We adapted one of our family’s recipes to make our butter cookies gluten and dairy free. The cookies still have the same buttery rich flavor from the ghee (clarified butter) without the lactose or casein.


    Gluten-free Butter Cookies (dairy-free)

    Gluten-free Butter Cookies (dairy-free)

    Butter cookies can be known to be a bit dense so for our recipe we really recommend you mix the butter and sugars together until they are light and fluffy. It may take 3-5 minutes to get to that fluffy consistency that we are looking for so we recommend using a stand mixer if you have one and a hand mixer will also work for this recipe. Room temperature ingredients are important with this recipe. Having the butter and egg yolks at room temperature helps the dough come together with the coconut sugar.

    If you can’t find ghee at your local grocery store, we have a recipe to make your own ghee at home and it is so easy and worth your time to make a batch to have on hand. Using a high quality organic butter (pasture-raised if you can find it) is optimal when making ghee. If you do not have dairy sensitivity you can for sure use regular high quality butter in this recipe it swaps very easily.

    Read the rest of this entry »

  4. Dark Chocolate Crispy Peanut Butter Balls – No Bake {Gluten-Free + Cane Sugar-Free}

    These gluten-free Dark Chocolate Crispy Peanut Butter Balls are literally ALL of my favorite things in one. Dark chocolate, peanut butter, they’re a little creamy, a little crunchy and they have the perfect bit of salt on top. WHAT? Did I dream these?

    Dark Chocolate Crispy Peanut Butter Balls - No Bake {Gluten-Free + Cane Sugar-Free}

    Dark Chocolate Crispy Peanut Butter Balls - No Bake {Gluten-Free + Cane Sugar-Free}

    We had a small outdoor, safe, Thanksgiving celebration here at out house with our little “Pandemic Pod of Pals” and I made a full spread of classic, Thanksgiving food w could enjoy outside on our deck. Our friend Audrey offered to bring her famous Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls to share and when dinner ended and I pulled them from the fridge, made sure they were gluten-free and then promptly popped one into my mouth. After I yelled a few overly excited expletives I realized for me, it was love at first bite!! I believe while I was dancing with one of these in my mouth, my exact quote was (and I will leave out my excited use of the F-word) – “OMG, what is this magic? This is all of my most favorite things in one bite!!!”

    After getting Audrey’s original recipe, I made a few small tweaks to the recipe, swapping powdered sugar for coconut sugar and maple syrup, leaving out vegan butter and cutting it in half and opting for salted grass-fed butter instead (you can also use ghee or coconut oil here, too) and the box of sprouted brown rice cacao crisps I already had in the pantry made for the perfect crispy crunchy interior.

    There’s just something about the classic flavors of dark chocolate and peanut butter that I will never tired of and while there are so many nut butter alternatives and yeh, sure, they are good, they just don’t quite do it for me the way that peanut butter does (see below for options and alternatives for other options, if you must).

    Dark Chocolate Crispy Peanut Butter Balls - No Bake {Gluten-Free + Cane Sugar-Free}

    Making these Dark Chocolate Crispy Peanut Butter Balls was a therapeutic baking session (sans actually baking) thanks to the sadness of my cancelled plans. There’s something about being in the kitchen, Christmas music blaring and making something sweet that is instantly soothing to the soul.

    The best part about these, since they make well over 4 dozen balls, they are perfect to portion out and share with people you love, especially for the holidays. Leave a small box for your neighbors, give some to your trainer in an effort to bribe him to go easy on you in your workout (I might have done that) or just keep them ALL for yourself.

    I have since learned, thanks to Google that these Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Balls are a classic recipe, though many of the original recipes include half as much cereal and peanut butter and a full cup of powdered sugar, plus milk chocolate. I can’t even imagine how overly sweet those are. I really love that these Dark Chocolate Crispy Peanut Butter Balls are the perfect amount of sweet without hitting you over the head with it.

    I hope you enjoy these Dark Chocolate Crispy Peanut Butter Balls as such as I did – and please let me know if they make you scream swear words out of pure glee, too!

    By the way, in other circumstances I would have loved to share process photos while I made these, but to be fair, I did make them at like 8pm on a Sunday night after we found out our Yosemite trip had been officially cancelled because our campgrounds had closed due to this secondary lock down in California. So it is what it is, like the rest of 2020!

    Also, hey – did you hear the news?

    Speaking of chocolate, in case you missed it, I officially unveiled the brand new Tasty Yummies web store last week and introduced the three exclusive Tasty Yummies raw organic dark chocolate bars – Basic B, Salty B and Spicy B. All of the bars are dairy-free, cane sugar-free featuring the right amount of sweetness from mineral-rich coconut sugar, and luscious raw cacao butter stone ground at low temperatures. I am so proud of these bars and I am so excited to finally share them with all of you.

    While I wouldn’t necessarily recommend melting down these Tasty Yummies Chocolate Bars like 10 of them for this particular recipe, they are the perfect bar to savor and enjoy every single day.

    Read the rest of this entry »

  5. Winter Salad with Chicken, Root Veggies & Champagne Vinaigrette

    If you thought salad was only a summer dish, I promise this Winter Salad with Chicken, Root Veggies & Champagne Vinaigrette is sure to change your mind. This salad has a ton of warming flavors with a winter vibe from the rosemary to root veggies with lots of options for you to customize to your family’s needs.

    Winter Salad with Chicken, Root Veggies & Champagne Vinaigrette

    Winter Salad with Chicken, Root Veggies & Champagne Vinaigrette

    This Winter Salad with Chicken, Root Veggies & Champagne Vinaigrette is a wonderful way to celebrate the bounty of the season with a meal-sized salad FULL of nutrients and valor.

    Winter Salad with Chicken, Root Veggies & Champagne Vinaigrette

    Winter Salad with Chicken, Root Veggies & Champagne Vinaigrette

    First up is the roasted rosemary balsamic garlic chicken that smells like a night with heavy snow and everyone hanging out by the fire all nicely warm and cozy. This chicken is quick to cook, but you can also plan ahead and prep the chicken a day or two ahead, if you are someone who batch preps your proteins at the start of the week. It makes easy weeknight meals even easier. If you want to this Winter Salad to be a side dish to another protein, simply leave the chicken out.

    Winter Salad with Chicken, Root Veggies & Champagne Vinaigrette

    Next up we have some roasted sweet potatoes that add a nice sweetness and texture and can take the place of croutons any day. You may be surprised with the roasted beets in this salad but the nutty earthy flavor they provide pairs very nicely with the rosemary chicken. A sprinkle of goat cheese and chopped pecans are the perfect final add-ins. The topper is the champagne vinaigrette. It sounds fancy, it tastes fancy, but don’t worry it is very simple to make and I’m pretty sure this will become a staple dressing.

    Read the rest of this entry »

  6. California Avocado Ranch Chicken Salad

    This creamy rich, California Avocado ranch chicken salad recipe is a delicious, easy, everyday dairy-free recipe, it is also Paleo, Keto and Whole30 compliant!

    California Avocado Ranch Chicken Salad

    California Avocado Ranch Chicken Salad

    When it comes to easy meals on the go, for me, it always starts with quality protein and healthy fat. A meal that starts with these two staple macronutrients means more balanced blood sugar, adequate satiation and satisfaction levels and less of a need for all day snacking.

    Whether you follow a paleo approach to your eating, keto or low carb, if you are simply focusing on a balance nutrient-dense, whole foods diet, this simple recipe can be made with leftover batch prepped shredded chicken or a roasted or rotisserie chicken and it’s great for prepping ahead for the week for easy quick lunches or even a quick breakfast option.

    Serve on top of your favorite greens in California Avocado boats, on your favorite toasts or with crackers, however you want to enjoy it.

    California Avocado Ranch Chicken Salad

    We love chicken salads for easy, fast meals. Most weeks I prep a few pounds of shredded chicken in the Instant Pot or we grab a rotisserie chicken at the market, this makes for fast meals and lots of versatility.  You can also buy pre-cooked chicken, or make shredded chicken in a slow cooker with enough chicken broth to cover and cook it for 4 hours on low.

    California Avocado Ranch Chicken Salad

    This California Avocado Ranch Chicken Salad features my easy-to-make, dairy-free avocado ranch dressing with California Avocados as the star of the show, bringing rich, creamy goodness without dairy or eggs. Best part, you can use this amazing California Avocado ranch dressing here in the chicken salad, or whip it up quickly and thin it out a bit to dress your favorite salad or leave it on the thicker side for a delicious dip for fresh veggies.

    I love how quickly this can get put together with minimal ingredients and so much satiating and flavorful goodness.

    California Avocado Ranch Chicken Salad

     

    California Avocado Ranch Dressing

    gluten-free, dairy-free, paleo, egg-free, nut-free, whole30, keto, AIP
    Print Pin Rate
    Prep Time: 5 minutes
    Total Time: 5 minutes

    Ingredients 

    • makes approx. 8oz dressing
    • 1 Fresh California Avocado, seeded
    • ¼ - ⅓ cup unsweetened non-dairy milk*
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    • 1 teaspoon chives
    • ½ teaspoon dried dill
    • ½ teaspoon garlic
    • ½ teaspoon onion
    • ½ teaspoon sea salt
    • Black pepper, to taste

    Instructions

    • Add all the ingredients to a food process or the butcher of a high speed blender. Start with the 1/4 cup of non-dairy milk, continuing to add more as needed to reach your desired consistency, you may want to add upwards of 1/2 cup for a thinner dressing. You can also use a hand-held immersion blender.
    • Cover and refrigerate; eat within 3-5 days.

    Notes

    Recipe notes:
    Add as much non-dairy milk or water to thin to your desired consistency
    You can use fresh herbs in place of dried, I recommend approximately 1 tablespoon of each of the herbs. 1 small clove of garlic and 2 tablespoons fresh onion
    Depending on your dietary preferences, to make your California Avocado Ranch dressing creamy like a traditional ranch dressing you can also add in 1/4 cup greek yogurt or 1/4 cup avocado oil mayonnaise

    California Avocado Ranch Chicken Salad

    California Avocado Ranch Chicken Salad

    gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free, paleo, Whole30, Keto, AIP
    Print Pin Rate
    Prep Time: 5 minutes
    Total Time: 5 minutes
    Servings: 4 servings

    Ingredients 

    • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced, chilled
    • ¼ cup diced celery
    • ¼ cup dice red onion
    • ¾ cup California avocado ranch dressing, more or less to taste
    • Salt and pepper, to taste

    Instructions

    • Add the chicken, celery and onion to a medium mixing bowl. Add desired amount of avocado ranch and mix well. Refrigerate until ready to eat. Serve in California Avocado, on toast, over a salad or enjoy as is.
    • Refrigerate, eat within 3-5 days.

     

    This post is sponsored by the California Avocado Commission but all opinions are my own.

  7. 3-Ingredient Dark Chocolate California Avocado Truffles

    3-Ingredient Dark Chocolate California Avocado Truffles

    3-Ingredient Dark Chocolate California Avocado Truffles

    3-Ingredient Dark Chocolate California Avocado Truffles

    These decadent and delicious Dark Chocolate California Avocado Truffles can be made with just 3 simple ingredients. Plus, with the added bonus of the avocado you get all the amazing nutritious goodness of one of my favorite functional foods. 

    Rather than heavy cream or butter you’d usually find in a traditional chocolate truffle recipe,  avocado steps in and takes this simple recipe up a notch. Best part, you don’t even taste the avocado, all you taste is the rich dark chocolate, but it gives the truffles a decadent, creamy texture and it takes your dessert to the next level. Read the rest of this entry »

  8. Bacon and Chive Spaghetti Squash Fritters with California Avocado Lime Dipping Sauce {gluten-free, paleo, Whole30, keto}

    Bacon and Chive Spaghetti Squash Fritters with California Avocado Lime Dipping Sauce {gluten-free, paleo, Whole30, keto}

    Bacon and Chive Spaghetti Squash Fritters with California Avocado Lime Dipping Sauce {gluten-free, paleo, Whole30, keto}

    I try very hard to not play favorites with foods, but that’s a lot easier than it sounds. I will always have favorites, not just from a a flavor standpoint, of course there are foods that hold emotional attachments, memories and traditions and as a Holistic Nutritionist, there is a great long list foods I also really love from a functional perspective.

    Avocados are one of my favorites that cross all three. There is not a week that goes by that we don’t have avocados available in our home. Besides being totally obsessed with how they taste and how versatile they are, they can go from savory to sweet, with ease, I also love what a functional and healthful food avocados are.

    With nearly 20 essential vitamins and nutrients avocado are also a good source of fiber and folate, potassium, vitamin E and B vitamins. As well, as a source of healthy fats, avocados they play a vital role in a balanced, nutrient-dense diet and health fats essentially work as a nutrient-booster enabling fat soluble nutrients in foods eaten alongside the avocado, to become more assimilated and absorbed, nutrients like vitamins A, D, E and K.

    I had the pleasure, a couple years back, of visiting a California Avocado grove not too far from my own home and I was so honored to see these beautiful fruits growing in their natural habitat, being cared for and tended to by a family of growers right here in my own state. The lab of love for this fruit, picked by hand by families who have been growing to and tending these trees for years, gave me a new appreciation for one of my favorite foods. Walking the groves I got to, first hand, see the patience, the love, care and craftsmanship and taste the difference and my love grew deeper.

    Bacon and Chive Spaghetti Squash Fritters with California Avocado Lime Dipping Sauce {gluten-free, paleo, Whole30, keto}

    I have a long list of ways that I love to enjoy avocados, but I especially love a delicious sauce like this one, to highlight the flavor of this delicious fruit. These crispy, flavor packed bacon and chive spaghetti squash fritters are taken up a notch thanks to this flavorful, creamy sauce that you are absolutely going to want to put on anything and everything.

    With the addition of the lime and a tangy yogurt, besides flavor and a little punch, the acidity also works to prevent the avocado from browning, keeping this delicious dipping sauce, vibrant and fresh.

    Bacon and Chive Spaghetti Squash Fritters with California Avocado Lime Dipping Sauce {gluten-free, paleo, Whole30, keto}

    This California Avocado Lime Dipping sauce is also great as a creamy salad dressing, it’s amazing drizzled over roasted veggies. Use it as a marinade for chicken or as a sauce a top your favorite fish or other protein. It also makes a great veggie dip or a dip for your favorite crackers or chips.

    These simple Bacon and Chive Spaghetti Squash Fritters with California Avocado Lime Dipping Sauce is a quick recipe to make and a great option for leftover spaghetti squash. They make a delicious side dish or a super fun starter / appetizer.  I think you are really gonna love these.

    I like to make the dipping sauce first and place into the fridge to chill while making the fritters.

    Bacon and Chive Spaghetti Squash Fritters with California Avocado Lime Dipping Sauce {gluten-free, paleo, Whole30, keto}

     

    California Avocado Lime Dipping Sauce {gluten-free, paleo, Whole30, keto}

    gluten-free, keto, paleo, whole30, nut-free
    Print Pin Rate

    Ingredients 

    • 2 California avocados
    • 4 tablespoons lime juice, from 2 limes
    • ¼ cup fresh cilantro
    • ¼ cup yogurt, non-dairy yogurt works just fine here
    • ¼ teaspoon sea salt, more to taste, as needed
    • black pepper or red pepper flakes, to taste

    Instructions

    • Add all of the ingredients to a high powered blender or food processor and blend until well combined. An immersion blender will also work.
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste (just a little at a time), then blend again and taste. Add more salt and pepper, if necessary. Store the sauce in the fridge in an airtight container and give it a good stir before serving. It will keep and stay fresh for upwards of 3 to 4 days.

    Bacon and Chive Spaghetti Squash Fritters with California Avocado Lime Dipping Sauce {gluten-free, paleo, Whole30, keto}

    Bacon and Chive Spaghetti Squash Fritters with California Avocado Lime Dipping Sauce {gluten-free, paleo, Whole30, keto}

    gluten-free, paleo, Whole30, keto, grain-free, dairy-free, nut-free
    Print Pin Rate
    Prep Time: 15 minutes
    Cook Time: 15 minutes
    Total Time: 30 minutes
    Servings: 12 fritters

    Ingredients 

    • 4 cups cooked spaghetti squash threads
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • ½ teaspoon sea salt
    • teaspoon black pepper
    • ¼ cup coconut flour
    • 2 large eggs, whisked
    • 4-5 slices bacon, cooked, drained of fat, and finely chopped (1/4 cup)
    • 2 tablespoon chives, finely minced
    • 1-3 tbsp ghee, refined organic coconut oil or preferred cooking fat for frying

    Options to add:

    • ¼ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
    • ¼ teaspoon chipotle powder
    • Cook in bacon fat for extra flavor

    Instructions

    • Remove the "spaghetti" from your spaghetti squash with a fork and place in a large mixing bowl.
    • Add the mound of squash to a clean kitchen towel (or a few paper towels) and squeeze out any excess moisture. Really give it some good squeezes. Don’t skip this step, it’s worth it for finished product - you will be surprised how much excess liquid comes out. Add the garlic and onion, power salt, pepper, and coconut flour. Add in the whisked eggs, the bacon and the chives.
    • Mix really well with fork until all ingredients are fully combined.
    • Using your hands, form into 12 equally sized patties, made with approximately 1/4 cup of the mixture each.
    • Flatten and place on a parchment lined baking sheet. Continue forming until all are ready to be cooked.
    • Heat a large skillet over medium high heat and add your ghee or coconut oil. Once the pan is hot, please the fritters in.
    • Once they'e browned on one side, flip and brown on the second side.
    • Drain on paper towels and continue to fry in batches, as necessary, adding more cooking oil as needed.
    • Serve right away with the avocado lime dipping sauce and enjoy!

    Notes

    Leave out the bacon to make these vegetarian.

     

     

    This post is sponsored by the California Avocado Commission but all opinions are my own.

  9. How to Make Hemp Milk +Video {Keto, Paleo, Vegan, Nut-free, Whole30}

    How to Make Hemp Milk. Today I am teaching you to make my super simple homemade hemp milk. No need for soaking or straining, no planning ahead, just two ingredients to super easy homemade non-dairy milk. Plus, a few of my favorite flavor variations, Creamy Strawberry Vanilla Bean and Rich Chocolate Hemp Milks.

    How to Make Hemp Milk {paleo, vegan, keto, whole30, nut-free}

    How to Make Hemp Milk {paleo, vegan, keto, whole30, nut-free}

    I am excited to show you how to make Easy Homemade Hemp Milk. It’s one of my favorite meal prep recipes and it’s great when you are in a pinch. Whether avoiding dairy milk is a priority, preference or necessity, I find homemade non-dairy milks to be the best for taste and cost as well as knowing exactly what is in there.

    There are so many reasons to make your own non-dairy milks at home, but if I am being honest, often the time and the planning ahead becomes a big reason why I just don’t do it. I forget to plan ahead to soak the nuts or seeds, then I don’t want to fuss with straining the milk. 

    This homemade hemp milk is a favorite of mine for those last minute moments when I realize I have nothing on hand and I just want a quick smoothie, post-workout shake or even a tasty latte. Unlike most homemade nut milks or non-dairy milks, there’s no soaking overnight and no straining after you blend, so it’s ready whenever you are. You just need a high speed blender, like a Vitamix and about 2 minutes of your time! That’s literally it. 

    By not straining your homemade hemp milk, you maximize the nutritional benefits of the hemp seeds (hemp hearts) along with the extra fiber.

    You can strain if you want it to be more like commercial non-dairy milks, it’s super easy, with a nut milk bag or cheesecloth, but the best part about not straining, you retain all the amazing benefits of the hemp hearts.

    NO SOAKING NECESSARY

    Hemp seeds contain no phytic acid, the mineral-binding antinutrient common to most nuts, seeds, grains, and legumes (which we talk about at length in my nut milk how to post and this sprouting tutorial for nuts, seeds, grains and beans).

    How to Make Hemp Milk {paleo, vegan, keto, whole30, nut-free}

    Nutritional Benefits of Hemp Seeds (Why I Don’t Strain my Hemp Milk)

    Hemp seeds (or hemp hearts) are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and they are rich in plant-based essential fatty acids, omega 3s, omega 6s, plus due to the optional ratio of these two EFAs in hemp seeds, it’s a great option for reducing inflammation. Hemp also contains including GLA, Gamma-Linolenic acid (GLA), a necessary building block for some prostaglandins that has been shown to support hormone balance, inflammation and more.

    Hemp seeds are also rich in vitamin E which is great for your immune function. As far as minerals, hemp is a great source of manganese and magnesium, potassium, phosphorous, zinc, among others. Most excitingly, hemp seeds are a quality complete plant based protein, with all 20 amino acids present, including the 9 essential amino acids our bodies cannot produce – this is CRAZY rare in the plant kingdom, this is part of why I never bother straining them out.  Per a 30 gram serving of hemp hearts, (approx. 2 heaping tablespoons) you get 10 grams of protein and 10 grams of Omega 3 + 6s. Hemp seeds are also rich in fiber, which is one of the other reasons why I prefer to leave the whole seeds in my homemade hemp milk.

     

    My Blender of Choice + A Special Offer:

    All you need is a good blender! That’s it. I recommend a high speed blender for the very best results for super creamy Homemade Hemp Milk. Vitamix is my preferred high speed blender. Using this link, you, the Tasty Yummies community receives $20 off of your first purchase of an Ascent Series product (featured above) plus FREE SHIPPING.

    Read the rest of this entry »

  10. Instant Pot Hamburger Soup aka Ground Beef Stew {Paleo, Keto, Whole30}

    This Instant Pot Hamburger Soup is a simple, weeknight meal is a breeze to throw together, it’s hearty and budget-friendly. This comforting classic version of a ground beef stew is paleo, Whole30 and keto-friendly. 

    Instant Pot Hamburger Soup - Paleo, Keto, Whole30

    Instant Pot Hamburger Soup - Paleo, Keto, Whole30

    This simple, humble Instant Pot Hamburger Soup was born accidentally. You see, I had fully meal planned for this week , which is exciting enough when I plan ahead and to that and on the menu I had my Instant Pot Beef Stew, it’s a favorite of mine, it’s pure, cozy comfort food that reminds me of my childhood. I had planned to leave out the white potatoes and mix up the veggies to suit my tastes and needs. I love that this stew recipe is generally affordable as chuck roast or stew meat is often an budget-conscious cut of meat, however I hit up my local grocery store and the grass-fed chuck roast was $12 / pound, EEEEK and no other quality stew meat option. That’s a hard NOPE!! I wasn’t making a stew that cost over $30 in meat. I looked to my left and there I found grass-fe, grass-finished ground beef, $4.99 / pound. Perfect, I thought, I would just make my beef stew with hamburger meat and it would be amazing.

    To create this ground beef stew I made a few light changes, I increased the broth, went with less meat, I left out the potatoes and opted to create for more of a soup, then a stew, though it still had those cozy stew vibes with the veggies and the flavors.

    Read the rest of this entry »

  11. Keto Chocolate Avocado Pudding {Paleo, Vegan}

    This rich, decadent, smooth Keto Chocolate Avocado Pudding has become a favorite treat around our house. It’s decadent, creamy and so so easy. Ready in just a few minutes, with just 5-ingredients!

    Keto Chocolate Avocado Pudding {Paleo, Vegan}

    Keto Chocolate Avocado Pudding {Paleo, Vegan}

    You all know from following me, I am not a big treats and sweets gal. I just don’t crave sweets these days and I generally prefer to avoid the keto-fied treats loaded with suspect sweeteners. I generally just stick to my daily dark chocolate. A square or two of 85-100% dark chocolate and I am a very happy girl. Chocolate truly is my love language.

    Hubby is a little bit different than me. The man grew up on sweets. The really sweet sweets! They are his comfort food, so I am always looking for ways to please both our palates.

    Keto Chocolate Avocado Pudding {Paleo, Vegan}

    This Keto Chocolate Avocado Pudding is a creamy, whipped mousse-like dessert that comes together quickly and it really hits the spot. The best part, as like most recipes you’ll find here on Tasty Yummies, SO many fun flavor options. Add in a little nut butter and some sea salt and it’s delightful. Bump up the coconut flavor with shredded coconut, toasted coconut flakes or maybe a little coconut extract. Mint Chocolate pudding is nice, add a little mint extract and/or fresh mint leaves. Try adding some cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne for a spicy Mexican Chocolate pudding. Lastly a little espresso powder is also really really nice. Read the rest of this entry »

  12. Grain-free Salmon Pumpkin Dog Treat Recipe

    This Grain-free Salmon Pumpkin Dog Treat Recipe will make you the most popular dog parent around. This DIY treat has just 5 simple ingredients that are loaded with nutrients for your furry baby and they are cost-effective, too!

    Grain-free Salmon Pumpkin Dog Treat Recipe

    Grain-free Salmon Pumpkin Dog Treat Recipe

    If you’ve been following along with me on Instagram, then you know all about Uncle Larry.

    If you don’t, let me fill you in. Uncle Larry is the rescue pup who came into our lives back in November. During the midst of the horrible Woolsey fires in Malibu, I was feeling helpless being so close, yet so far away, down here in Long Beach.

    In the early days of the fire, as the devastation mounted, I felt like I needed to do something, but I didn’t know what exactly. As I was thumbing through my Instagram stories I saw the calls for help for displaced animals, both from the families evacuated under emergency circumstance from their homes and the animals from shelters in the fire zones, also being evacuated. There just wasn’t enough room for all of them and with the threat of euthanasia looming there was a desperate need for foster families.

    For the first time ever, without hesitation I said to Mark “we need to foster a dog”. I say for the first time ever, because while we have considered it a million times over, it’s not a decision to take lightly when you already have pets, when you travel a fair amount and you know yourselves well enough to know there is a high probability that any animal you take in, may never leave.

    Read the rest of this entry »

  13. Smoked Salmon Dip {Paleo, Gluten-free, Keto} + Video

    This Paleo Smoked Salmon Dip has become synonymous with party invites for me. Ready in about 5 minutes, with just 4 ingredients, it’s fuss-free at it’s finest. I make with a dairy-free cream cheese, but you can also make with regular cream cheese, as well.

    Smoked Salmon Dip {Paleo, Gluten-free, Keto}

    Smoked Salmon Dip {Paleo, Gluten-free, Keto}

    This Paleo Smoked Salmon Dip has turned into a bit of a mainstay when it comes to entertaining, it was my signature move this past holiday season. I’ve literally brought it to every party, event and dinner, from prior to Thanksgiving and including the holiday straight through Christmas and our New Year’s Eve celebrations, too. Over the summer it is a hit at BBQs and picnics, too!

    With the classic flavors of smoked salmon with cream cheese, with a couple of additional ingredients to maximize the punch of taste, this is a must for parties and it’ll impress even the non-paleo folks, as well.

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  14. Chocolate Smarter Smoothie {Keto, Paleo, Vegan-option} + Video

    My Chocolate Smarter Smoothie is my most favorite, most often made smoothie. Loaded with flavor and a thick, rich and creamy texture, this blood sugar balancing meal replacement shake gives you enough protein, fat and fiber to keep you full for hours on end and it’s loaded with so much goodness.

    Chocolate Smarter Smoothie {Keto, Paleo, Vegan-option} + Video

    Chocolate Smarter Smoothie {Keto, Paleo, Vegan-option} + Video

    In case you missed it over on Instagram, I am calling this week Smoothtember Week and it’s a full week all about the Smarter Smoothies. In addition to sharing the brand new video for my Smarter Smoothies formula, this week I will be sharing three of my personal, MOST favorite Smarter Smoothie recipes. These are my classic go-to smarter smoothies then I come back to, time and time again!

    Today, I am sharing my most favorite of all smoothies EVER my Chocolate Smarter Smoothie. As a chocolate lover, through and through, this is one of my absolute favorites. It’s rich, creamy, it has so much flavor and despite tasting like a dream, I don’t have to be worried about consuming a candy-bar worth of sugar at my first meal. This is great when I am looking for a quick and easy post-workout meal or often I will use as my afternoon meal, if I am not looking for a larger meal.

    This Chocolate Smarter Smoothie skips out on the fruit and the sweet stuff, so you’ve got all the flavor of a chocolate shake, without a ton of sugar. This recipe uses cauliflower rice to create a delicious creamy texture, but you can also use frozen zucchini If you want additional greens add some baby spinach. If you are looking to add some carbs, try a little frozen butternut squash or a fruit that you love, strawberries or raspberries pair really nice with the chocolate.

    Finally, chocolate is an amazing superfood loaded with antioxidants, polyphenol and many minerals, it has been shown to be anti-inflammatory and to support lowering insulin resistance. Read more about the benefits of chocolate here.

    As always, this smoothie is creating my Smarter Smoothies formula. If every meal-replacement smoothie that you create has adequate protein, fat and fiber, if you make sure you are getting loads of nutrients from leafy greens, veggies and/or  herbs and you add those crunchies on top, so your digestion is working at it’s full potential – you will always be getting everything you need! The fruit and those bonuses/boosts we talk about in the Smarter Smoothies post, those are extras – have fun with those, but don’t make the sugary fruits the shining star!

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  15. Golden Spiced Smarter Smoothie {Keto, Paleo, Vegan-option} + Video

    My Golden Spiced Smarter Smoothie is my go-to smoothie when I am looking for a post-workout complete meal and it’s perfect for the fall and winter months, in all it’s cozy aromatic spices. This blood sugar balancing meal replacement shake gives you enough protein, fat and fiber to keep you full for hours on end and it’s loaded with so much goodness.

    Golden Spiced Smarter Smoothie {Paleo, Vegan-option} + Video

    Golden Spiced Smarter Smoothie {Paleo, Vegan-option} + Video

    In case you missed it over on Instagram, I am calling this week Smoothtember Week and it’s a full week all about the Smarter Smoothies. In addition to sharing the brand new video for my Smarter Smoothies formula, this week I will be sharing three of my personal, MOST favorite Smarter Smoothie recipes. These are my classic go-to smarter smoothies!

    Next up, I am sharing my Golden Spiced Smarter Smoothie. This smoothie is one of my absolute favorites, when I am looking for a quick and easy post-workout meal, with flavor, vibrant color and lots of healing benefits!

    This Golden Spiced Smarter Smoothie is loaded with so much good stuff, it’s crazy! The reason I particularly love this smoothie post workout is the carbohydrates from the butternut squash, while it’s under 12 net carbs (less if you make this two servings), it’s still a bit more than my traditional smoothies, since they tend to be quite low carb. It’s a nice way to replenish, without the crash of many other carbohydrates, it’s especially great after a more intense workout, I will actually add more like 3/4 to 1 cup of the squash if it’s more of a carb-up meal or if I am making servings for two.

    The ground turmeric is also a nice addition as it’s a powerful anti-inflammatory that is wonderful for supporting your muscles and joints after a workout – read more about the benefits of turmeric here, (this is the already boosted turmeric powder I use, most times). Obviously more or less turmeric will change the golden color of the smoothie, I recommend going with 1 – 2 teaspoons, based on what you prefer taste wise. But please BE CAREFUL, turmeric will stain your hands, clothes and basically anything it touches. Of course, we are also getting amazing benefits for our muscles and our recovery with the high-quality full amino acid profile protein by way of the grass-fed beef isolate protein (this is the one I prefer), a high-quality protein is necessary for repairing and rebuilding your muscles.

    I prefer to use Ceylon cinnamon in my pumpkin pie spice blend, because Ceylon cinnamon has been shown to lower fasting blood glucose levels. Is a little cinnamon in your smoothie gonna cure your diabetes, nuh uh, but it you are in the prediabetic range, adding a little Ceylon cinnamon to your diet every day, may offer some help in your blood sugar management.

    Our fat is working to keep us full and satiated, it helps to mitigate blood sugar spikes, and when using MCT oil, you get an easy-to-burn fuel source that brings a nice hit of energy. Of course, the fiber, as usual is great for keeping you full and satiated, as well as feeding your healthy gut microbiome.

    As always, this smoothie is creating my Smarter Smoothies formula. If every meal-replacement smoothie that you create has adequate protein, fat and fiber, if you make sure you are getting loads of nutrients from leafy greens, veggies and/or  herbs and you add those crunchies on top, so your digestion is working at it’s full potential – you will always be getting everything you need! The fruit and those bonuses/boosts we talk about in the Smarter Smoothies post, those are extras – have fun with those, but don’t make the sugary fruits the shining star!

     

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  16. Classic Green Smarter Smoothie {Keto, Paleo, Vegan-option} + Video

    My Classic Green Smarter Smoothie is a blood sugar balancing meal replacement shake that gives you enough protein, fat and fiber to keep you full for hours on end and it’s loaded with so much goodness.

    Classic Green Smarter Smoothie

    Classic Green Smarter Smoothie

    In case you missed it over on Instagram, I am calling this week Smoothtember Week and it’s a full week all about the Smarter Smoothies. In addition to sharing the brand new video for my Smarter Smoothies formula, this week I will be sharing three of my personal, MOST favorite Smarter Smoothie recipes. These are my classic go-to smarter smoothies!

    First up, I am sharing my Classic Green Smarter Smoothie. This is my go-to when I want a vibrant green smoothie, loaded with all the good stuff!

    I often notice that folks’ (and especially smoothie and juice shops) their Green Smoothies have so much sugary fruit that while they taste so freakin’ amazing, if you take a look at what’s in there, you are consuming an incredible amount of sugar in one sitting. Oh and newsflash, it’s liquified, so there’s no chewing, there’s no slowing things down, it’s just a straight mainlined shot of sugar (fructose) to the liver.

    Yes, I know that sugar from fruit isn’t exactly the same as sugar, it’s not refined. It’s not manmade.

    And let me just stop you… absolutely I am 100% aware that fruit has tons of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and loads of benefits – totally! Great, yes, it’s better than a candy bar in that way. But, when we are strictly talking about blood sugar, blood sugar hormones, hunger hormones and all that other stuff going on inside out body, sugar is sugar is sugar. Sorry, but that’s the truth. Want some frui? Eat one single whole piece of in-season fruit, with the fiber in tact. Chew it. Enjoy it. But, it’s best to keep the fruits in your smoothie, to a minimum.

    The main reason I care so much when it comes to meal replacement smoothies , is when you craft that Green Smoothie with a ton of sugar, and you aren’t cognizant of the protein or fat that you include, this is why you are hungry in about an hour, reaching for more stuff to give you a quick hit of energy and next thing you know, before lunch you’ve blasted through a ton of calories, sugar and you’re still tired and not satiated.Read more here about the importance of building your meals smarter for a day of lasting energy, so you can avoid that afternoon crash.

    This is where my Smarter Smoothies formula comes in super handy. If every meal-replacement smoothie that you create has adequate protein, fat and fiber, if you make sure you are getting loads of nutrients from leafy greens, veggies and herbs and you add those crunchies on top, so your digestion is working at it’s full potential – you will always be getting everything you need! The fruit and those bonuses/boosts we talk about in the Smarter Smoothies post, those are extras – have fun with those, but don’t make the fruit the shining star!

     

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  17. Banh Mi Salad {Keto, Paleo, Whole30}

    Banh Mi Salad. This is a delicious take on Vietnamese classic sandwich, the Bánh mì. Keto, paleo, Whole30 and gluten-free, this deconstructed take on one of my favorite sandwiches is loaded with flavor, fresh crunchy vegetables and so much color. I cannot wait for you to try this one.

    Banh Mi Salad {Keto, Paleo, Whole30}

    Banh Mi Salad {Keto, Paleo, Whole30}

    Alright all my keto, paleo, Whole30 pals, you didn’t think I would leave you hanging on this whole Banh Mi thing, did you? I shared my delicious gluten-free Banh Mi Sandwich a few weeks back, as part of a Sammie Smackdown Contest with Canyon Bakehouse, all for a very good cause, but a lot of you, like me, are generally on that grain-free train. I feel ya, I feel better that way, too! But, there’s no reason we can’t get it on these sammie vibes, in our own way. Enter the Banh Mi Salad, my new favorite thing!

    Banh Mi Salad {Keto, Paleo, Whole30}

    Banh Mi Salad {Keto, Paleo, Whole30}

    I entered my tasty take on this classic Vietnamese sandwich, the Banh Mi, to try to win $10,000 for my charity, Joyful Heart Foundation. Joyful Heart is a leading national organization with a mission to transform society’s response to sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse and support survivors’ healing. Through healing, education, and advocacy, they are paving the way for innovative approaches to treating trauma, igniting shifts in the way the public views and responds to these horrific acts of violence and reforming legislation to ensure justice for survivors – and ultimately working to end this violence, forever!

    Voting is still open. It remains open until August 20th and you can vote up to 3 times a day for my sandwich, with extra votes coming in if you share on social media and sign up through email to win a years worth of gluten-free bread! Head over to the Sammie Smackdown contest on Canyon Bakehouse’s website and help me by voting EVERY SINGLE DAY until the contest ends on 8/20. It would mean the world to me to win this money for this incredible, privately funded organization, doing such important work. 

    In the meantime, if sandwiches and bread aren’t so much your thing, you need to make this epic salad, inspired by that sandwich. All the flavors, tastes and vibes, without the bread. (And yes, I am aware that Banh Mi literally translates to bread, so this becomes an oxymoron of sorts, but I am OK with that.) If you are following a paleo or keto approach to your eating or maybe just doing a Whole30 and looking to have something fun, this salad is for you!!

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  18. Grain-free Spicy Cauliflower Fritters {Keto, Paleo, Whole30}

    These Grain-free Spicy Cauliflower Fritters are an amazing way to embrace the cauliflower love, taking the cauli-rice trend to a whole new level. These versatile patties can be adapted to whatever flavor and spice blend you’d like and served with your favorite sauce, we like Chipotle Lime Aioli.

    Grain-free Spicy Cauliflower Fritters

    Grain-free Spicy Cauliflower Fritters

    Veg based fritters have always been a favorite of mine, either as a quick bite appetizer or snack, or atop a large bed of greens as a main dish, I find them to be quick, simple, cheap and versatile. Since I have removed both grains and beans from my diet, due to my autoimmune conditions and my digestive issues, I haven’t really messed with too many veggie-based fritters, cakes and patties in recent years. But, after a recent exploration with cauliflower, which is one of my favorite, versatile, low carb, starch-like veggies – these fritters were born and they have quickly become a new fav.

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  19. Grilled Spicy Shrimp and Veggie Skewers with Pineapple Turmeric Salsa {gluten-free, paleo, Whole30, keto}

    Ready in no-time, these Grilled Spicy Shrimp and Veggie Skewers are fast, simple, and so crazy-flavorful. Turmeric adds a boost of health benefits and flavor depth to both the marinade and the Pineapple Turmeric Salsa served on the side. This recipe is gluten-free, paleo, whole30 and keto compliant. 

    This post and recipe were created in partnership with MegaFood®. I am proud to work with brands that care about the health of its consumers and the planet. As always, all opinions, ideas and text are my own. Thanks for supporting the sponsors that allow me to create new and special content like this for Tasty Yummies.

    Grilled Spicy Shrimp and Veggie Skewers with Pineapple Turmeric Salsa {gluten-free, paleo, Whole30, keto}

    Grilled Spicy Shrimp and Veggie Skewers with Pineapple Turmeric Salsa {gluten-free, paleo, Whole30, keto}

    There’s something so special about the food of summer. At our house, we opt for lots of easy-to-make, all-encompassing meals that don’t require too many pots and pans or heating up the kitchen. But more, I LOVE celebrating all the vibrant colors and tastes of the season. And we are ALWAYS down for a grill-centric meal over here.

    By now you folks know I am all for getting in ample superfoods and supplements, be it classically in tablet or powder form, tossed into smoothies – I have some very important supplements that are part of my everyday routine, no excuses. That said, there is something I love so much more about foods and supplements working together in harmony. Often, there are other nutrients found in our foods that work symbiotically with these supplements and other nutrients to ensure the best chance for assimilation and absorption. 

    Grilled Spicy Shrimp and Veggie Skewers with Pineapple Turmeric Salsa {gluten-free, paleo, Whole30, keto}

    Grilled Spicy Shrimp and Veggie Skewers with Pineapple Turmeric Salsa {gluten-free, paleo, Whole30, keto}

    Turmeric is one of those foods/supplements that I don’t ever miss! I’m serious, I take it every day. I have personally seen improvements in the health of my joints and muscle recovery post-workout by consistently including turmeric in my diet over the past few years*. In fact, I can almost always feel a marked change if I miss even a single dose. It’s pretty wild. 

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  20. 15-Minute Paleo Taco Skillet Dinner

    This 15-Minute Paleo Taco Skillet Dinner is ready in just about 15 minutes and it’s loaded with quality protein, fibrous leafy greens and if you top it with avocado, you’ll get some bonus healthy fats. A perfect, low-carb, one pan meal to please all!

    Super Easy Taco Skillet {Gluten-free, Paleo & Whole 30-friendly}

    Super Easy Taco Skillet {Gluten-free, Paleo & Whole 30-friendly}

    I have been loving a good one-pan meal these days. Despite the, I am sure, blanket assumptions that when you don’t have kids, you have all the time in the world for meal planning, it can actually be quite hard, even still, in a child-free home. Without the forced structure and routines that comes with having little ones, we can often flail and have to just “make do”.

    I am not that great at planning ahead some weeks and I am often not that methodical with our meal planning, so there are always staples that we have around, so there are always those staple-inspired meals. You know the ones – they aren’t all that glamorous and they are more about the function than the fashion.

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  21. Radicchio Salad with Bacon Lardons, Manchego & Six Minute Egg {gluten-free, keto}

    This Radicchio Salad with Bacon Lardons, Manchego & Six Minute Egg is inspired by a delicious meal I had at Tasty n Alder early this year to Portland, Oregon. This salad straight up swept me off my feet and left a lasting impression on this self-proclaimed salad-a-holic!

    Radicchio Salad with Bacon Lardons, Manchego & Six Minute Egg (Gluten-free, Keto}}

    Radicchio Salad with Bacon Lardons, Manchego & Six Minute Egg (Gluten-free, Keto}}

    Traveling is one of my very favorite things to do. I feel alive when I am exploring new places and I always return to the home I love so much, feeling inspired by the people, the cuisine, the history, traditions and stories.

    This year has already been off to a really great start for my travels and as always, my cooking and my recipes that I create after I return to my kitchen, are absolutely inspired by the places I visit.

    All that to say that I would LOVE to take credit for the brilliance of this incredible Radicchio Salad with Bacon Lardons, Manchego & Six Minute Egg. But alas, this one comes by way of an epic meal I had while traveling. Of course. This from a recent trip to Portland, Oregon, the mecca of amazing, inspired, seasonal, real food eats. This salad is my recreation of quite possibly one of THE best salads I have ever had in my entire life. Right? I know, that’s a pretty HUGE statement, especially for a self-professed salad lover such as myself.

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