New Beginnings

We are well into January and most of us have probably made some kind of resolve to change some habits and eat healthier. The Whole Foods, Plant Based Living for Kids blog wants to help you along the way. I have to confess that recently I have been allowing myself too many "treats."

True Confessions:

• I recently bought donut holes AND ate them.
• My sweet spot is "Hint of Lime" chips with salsa. The salsa is good....but the chips are LOADED with fat and not whole grain. Yes, I've indulged.
• M&Ms. Need I say more.

One site I look to over and over again for good recipes is "Whole Foods." They have a series of Health Starts Here recipes that are a surefire way to get back up on the horse. Check them out here.
I recommend the "Grain Stuffed Red Peppers." Share some new recipes you've tried that are keeping you on the straight and narrow.

Thanksgiving Twist

With Thanksgiving coming upon us, you'll want to check out Whole Food's website for alternative recipes. In my family, I know I can't convince people to forego turkey; my husband can't wait to have turkey! There would be a revolt if I even mentioned it, and I'm not hosting so I can't impose that on other people anyway.

I am looking around for good harvest recipes so I can bring some different dishes. I know I don't want to end my Thanksgiving day with my pants unbuttoned because I'm so full, but I now some people are probably looking forward to that experience.

I have found some great recipes at the Whole Food's site that I'm going to try, such as the Lentil Loaf. I recently made Quinoa Cakes, and they were delish! I shared them with a friend  and she loved them (right Julie? -chime in!). These recipes are both reminiscent of stuffing, and I'm still on the hunt for a good veggie dish to bring as well. Another great site is the 21-Day Vegan Kickstart, by PCRM.

So, as you plan for Thanksgiving, take  a baby step. Think: whole foods, plant-based, nutrient rich, healthy fat. Add one dish that is an alternative to your traditional meal. Why not try a low-fat version of sweet potatoes, for example. Sweet potatoes are so good for you, but we generally slather them with butter and marshmellows.

The baby step for this week is try a new Thanksgiving dish and share your experience here. What are you planning on making?