Category: Meal Plan Tips

The winter holiday season is well underway, and the magic of shared traditions is stronger than ever. The familiar, delicious taste of well-known holiday foods probably isn’t leaving your mind. However, this season, let’s slide beyond borders and explore the many ways the world celebrates this time of year. So, come along, and let’s embrace the spirit of togetherness that makes this season so special.

Winter holiday foods around the world

This winter, we’re packing our curiosity, not our passports, for a culinary adventure around the globe. So, grab your sense of wonder and a hearty appetite because the world’s festive feast awaits.

Europe’s Winter Food Symphony

As the crisp winter air settles across Europe, a different kind of warmth takes hold. It’s the warmth of shared meals, crackling fireplaces and rich culinary traditions passed down through generations. From the shores of the Mediterranean to the snowy peaks of Scandinavia, each European country offers its own melody of spices and flavors into the tapestry of winter holidays.

Italy’s “Festa dei sette pesci”

On Christmas Eve, Italian families gather around tables rich in pescatarian delights – a tradition known as the “Festa dei sette pesci” (Feast of the Seven Fishes). Picture plates overflowing with clams, mussels, oysters, cod, and eel, all bathed in fragrant garlicky olive oil and lemon juice. This culinary delight symbolizes fertility and spiritual renewal.

French Bûche de Noël and other Christmas delights

In France, the winter holidays bring an exquisite sweetness to the table. The Bûche de Noël easily takes center stage. It’s a chocolate Yule log cake with meringue mushrooms, dusted with powdered sugar. But the French festive feast extends beyond. Imagine foie gras with fig chutney, coq au vin simmered to perfection, and delicate pastries studded with candied fruits. Each bite is a celebration of French artistry.

Germany’s Stollen: A fruity bread treat

From its humble beginnings as a simple meal, Germany’s Stollen has become a cherished holiday tradition. It’s a dense fruit bread with raisins, candied citrus peel, and marzipan. Its rich aroma creates the perfect atmosphere for joyful gatherings. Dust each slice with powdered sugar to keep the tradition as special as it’s always been.

North America’s festive melting pot 

As snowflakes swirl and fireplaces crackle across North America, the spirit of the winter holidays ignites a diverse symphony of flavors. Each family table sings its culinary carol in this melting pot of cultures and traditions.

The iconic turkey and stuffing

No North American winter holiday feast is complete without the centerpiece: the majestic roast turkey. Its golden color and wonderful vegetable side dishes make this a cherished tradition that has been passed down through generations. Whether adorned with cranberry sauce or green bean casserole, the turkey and stuffing symbolize the bounty of the land and the warmth of shared joy.

Hanukkah’s golden delights

As menorah candles flicker, Jewish families celebrate Hanukkah with piles of latkes and crispy potato treats fried in olive oil. These savory bites are traditionally served with sour cream and applesauce. They’re the ideal way to celebrate the miracle of light and the resilience of faith. Each bite crackles with a crispy texture and bursts with flavor, a reminder of the importance of family during the winter months.

Mexico’s festive flavor bombs Tamales

South of the border, the aroma of steaming tamales fills the air, announcing the arrival of Christmas cheer. These corn masa parcels are packed in colorful husks and bursting with pork, chicken, or cheese fillings. Their deliciousness brings true joy throughout winter holidays and is made for sharing among loved ones.

Winter holiday delicacies across other continents

While the aroma of roast turkey may define winter holidays for many, there’s a whole world of unexpected flavors waiting to be discovered beyond the familiar. 

China’s sticky sweet rice cakes

For the Lunar New Year celebrations in China, a sweet note takes center stage with Nian gao, AKA glutinous rice cakes. These sticky and chewy treats, symbolizing prosperity and rising fortune, come in various flavors and textures. Nian gao offers a delightful introduction to Chinese New Year traditions, proving that sweetness can be a powerful part of any festive celebration.

South Africa’s braai

While the rest of the world huddles under blankets during the winter holidays, South Africans fire up their beloved barbecue “braai.” Sizzling boerewors sausages, juicy steaks, and marinated kebabs fill the air with warm, smoky aromas. As laughter dances around the flames, the braai becomes a center of community. This different view reminds us that winter doesn’t have to lock us indoors. It can also be a time for gathering and celebrating under the summer sun.

Australia’s Pavlova cloud of sweetness

No Aussie holiday feast is complete without Pavlova. It’s a meringue cake topped with whipped cream and a symphony of seasonal fruits. Light as air and delicately sweet, this dessert perfectly aligns with the laid-back Aussie spirit. Whether adorned with juicy kiwi slices, tangy passionfruit, or vibrant berries, each bite is a burst of summer sweetness, a perfect finale to a sun-kissed celebration.

Final thoughts

Winter holidays always bring the spirit of sharing across borders and traditions. As fireplaces crackle and tables get packed with festive feasts, you can feel tradition’s warmth and delicious flavors’ comfort.

In these moments, food becomes the bridge that connects hearts with no words needed. No matter how simple it may sound, the culinary experience reveals a profound truth – despite our differences, we share a common desire for connection and belonging.

And food, in its beautiful simplicity, provides a vessel for these desires. It allows us to celebrate each other’s traditions, appreciate cultural diversity’s richness, and find comfort in the universal language of shared meals.

So, as you gather around your table this winter, remember the stories each bite carries. Open your heart to the new flavors on your plate, for they may well hold the key to understanding a different perspective, a different life story. Let the aromas guide you, the laughter draw you in, and the shared bites remind you that, at our core, we are all connected by the simple yet powerful magic of food.

We’ve all been there; a bowl of buttery mashed potatoes stares back at us from the fridge, and we have no clue what to do with it. But before you resort to a bland reheat or, even worse, throw them away, check out our leftover mashed potato recipes.

With a few very creative ideas and simple preparation methods, you can turn these “unwanted leftovers” into a true feast.

Why save leftover mashed potatoes?

Mashed potatoes are among the most versatile side dishes you can transform into various savory and sweet meals with just a few extra steps and ingredients. Their neutral taste makes it effortless to infuse them with other ingredients and produce completely new meals with very little effort.

Leftover mashed potatoes also have a prolonged refrigerated life. They store well in the refrigerator for three to five days, making them a great ingredient to have on hand for any time inspiration strikes.

Of course, if you are a sustainable practice enthusiast (which we hope you are), minimizing food waste is a large step in the right direction. By turning leftovers like mashed potatoes into new meals, you can get new meals that will satisfy your taste buds while making a positive impact on the environment. 

Leftover mashed potato recipes

Not sure how to exploit the goldmine that mashed potatoes are? Put on your apron and get ready to craft the most amazing dishes with our leftover mashed potato recipes.

Mashed potato pancakes

Are you tired of the same old breakfast routine? If so, perfect, because with these “crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside” pancakes, you’ll turn yesterday’s side dish into today’s breakfast delight. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes;
• 1 egg;
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour;
• salt and pepper to taste;
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

Start things off by grabbing a bowl where you’ll mix your ingredients. Add the mashed potatoes, egg, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix them thoroughly until they are well combined. Now, put a skillet over medium heat and coat it with two tablespoons of olive oil. 

Scoop spoonfuls of your mixture and add them to the skillet. Proceed by flattening them into pancakes. Cook them on both sides – when they turn golden brown, remove them from heat. Finally, combine them with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy.

Mashed potatoes casserole

A casserole with creamy mashed potatoes, oozing melted cheese, and a golden crust topping sounds like one of the most irresistible leftover mashed potato recipes imaginable? Making it is simpler than you might think. Ingredients:

• 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes;
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese;
• 1/2 cup sour cream;
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions;
• Salt and pepper.

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a bowl where you’ll mix the mashed potatoes, sour cream, half of the shredded cheese, green onions, salt, and pepper. Now, place that mixture onto a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Put it in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know that it’s ready when the cheese gets melted and bubbly. As a final touch, garnish it with green onions before serving.

Place the mixture onto a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

Bake it for around 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with extra green onions before serving.

Loaded mashed potato balls

The loaded mashed potato balls can be the perfect one-bite appetizer that is bound to impress your guest. Of course, if you’re more fond of keeping them for yourself, you’re in for a truly delicious snack. You’ll need these ingredients to make them:

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes;
• 1/2 cup shredded bacon;
• 1/4 cup chopped chives;
• 1 cup breadcrumbs;
• 2 eggs, beaten;
• Cooking oil for frying.

Mix the mashed potatoes alongside shredded bacon and chopped chives. Grab handfuls of the mixtures and form small balls. Then, dip each ball into beaten eggs and roll them in breadcrumbs to get them fully coated.

Next, heat some oil in a pan and fry the potato balls until they reach a golden brown color. There will be some excess oil once you finish them – use paper towels to remove it. Finally, enjoy them with your dipping sauce of choice.

Adding herbs and spices to your leftover mashed potato recipes

As mashed potatoes don’t taste like much on their own, you can use that as an advantage to elevate them with herbs and spices. They are an excellent base for mixing with other ingredients, and, like a sponge, they can absorb a variety of healthy flavors and bring out the best in them.

For example, you can add fresh chopped rosemary to get a very fragrant and savory meal. Rosemary has that recognizable pine-like aroma that will add a very unique flavor to the dish. Its herbal notes complement the creamy texture of the potatoes, creating a delightful taste experience.

Roasted garlic is another fantastic addition to mashed potatoes by adding a very rich flavor. By roasting it, you remove the harsh garlic flavor and transform it into a sweet and mellow spice. 

Finally, you can experiment with thyme to add a slightly floral taste to the meal. With its earthiness and versatility, it will combine perfectly with a variety of dishes, with leftover mashed potatoes being one of them. Just like that, with one simple ingredient, you can turn a simple side into a sophisticated culinary creation.

Final thoughts

Having a batch of leftovers is something we all deal with on a daily basis. However, that doesn’t mean you should simply throw them away. Instead, get a little creative, and you’ll soon discover that, with these leftover mashed potato recipes, you can turn yesterday’s lunch into a culinary delight.

So, the next time you find yourself with surplus mashed potatoes, try out one of these combinations and create something delicious from what was once considered leftovers. Happy cooking!

When thinking of ice cream, the first word that comes to mind is probably deliciousness, but unfortunately, the word guilt almost immediately follows it up. But did you know that, with a few tweaks and turns, you can turn this classical dessert into healthy ice cream that you can enjoy on a regular basis? Whether you’re low-cal, low-fat, dairy-free, or vegan, we’ve got a scoop waiting for you. 

Health benefits

Traditional, store-bought ice cream is often perceived as junk food (which it truthfully is), making it best for you to avoid it whenever possible. There are some healthy products on the market, but with many hidden sugars and additives, finding nutritious options often feels like finding a needle in a haystack.

Luckily, you can bypass these sugar-packed treats by making your own homemade ice cream that can be a true nutrition bomb. When you make ice cream at home, you can control the ingredients and select solely those that will boost its nutritional content. 

For example, you can make a wonderful healthy ice cream with blueberries and strawberries. Blueberries have high levels of antioxidants called anthocyanins, which improve cognitive function while reducing oxidative stress. Strawberries, on the other hand, are loaded with vitamin C, which strengthens and preserves your immune system and promotes skin health. 

Ice cream is a dessert, after all, and as such, it should do its job of satisfying your sweet tooth. However, that doesn’t mean you have to stuff it with sugar – quite the contrary. You can make your healthy dessert beautifully sweet with granulated sugar substitutes like honey or maple syrup.

With these, you’ll get to reduce your refined sugar intake while adding rich and distinctive sweetness. Another fantastic experiment we advise you to experiment with is dark chocolate. It does an excellent job at intensifying the flavor while providing antioxidant and heart health properties.

Finally, to make your healthy ice cream extra nutritious, consider enriching it with superfoods. You can add acai berries, which are known for their antioxidant content. Matcha powder will give it a vibrant green hue while bringing its wealth of antioxidants. Chia seeds introduce omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, making it one of the best additions possible.

Overall, homemade healthy ice cream brings numerous health benefits to the table when made with the right ingredients. Now, let’s get to the fun part and see how you can combine these components for a scoop of nutritional goodness.

Healthy ice cream recipes

Healthy ice creams come in all kinds of shapes and sizes. Here are a few different variations and recipes for making this healthy dessert from the comfort of your home.

Low-calorie ice cream

Mango sorbet is a refreshing, tropical ice cream that’s bursting with flavor. And with only 70 calories per serving, it’s a perfect guilt-free dessert to cool down on a hot day. Here’s what you’ll need to make it:

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and frozen;
• 1/2 a cup unsweetened plain almond milk;
• 1/4 cup lime juice;
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (optional).

First, blend the frozen mangoes in a high-powered blender until smooth and creamy. Proceed by gradually adding almond milk and lime juice while blending until you reach the consistency you like. You can stir in chopped mint to make it extra refreshing (if desired). Freeze the mix for at least one hour before serving.

Macros (per serving):

Calories: 70, Carbs: 17g, Fat: 0g, Protein: 1g

Dairy-free ice cream

These healthy popsicles are the perfect blend of caffeine and creamy coconut goodness. They’ll energize you with their delicious flavors, and on top of that, they’re completely dairy-free.

• 1 can of full-fat coconut milk;
• 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee;
• 1/4 cup maple syrup;
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract;
• a pinch of ground cinnamon.

To make these popsicles, simply whisk together coconut milk, coffee, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Then, pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze it for at least four hours. When you take them out of the freezer, run warm water over the mold briefly to loosen the popsicles and make it easier to pull them out.

Macros (per serving):

Calories: 120, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 6g, Protein: 1g

High-protein ice cream

If you want your healthy snacks to be an extra protein boost, we’ve got you covered. This nutritious ice cream sandwich is packed with antioxidants and protein, perfect for enthusiastic gym-goers.

• 1 cup frozen blueberries;
• 1 cup fresh spinach;
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt;
• 1/4 cup plant-based milk;
• 1/2 scoop vegan protein powder;
• 1/4 cup granola (optional).

Grab your blender and blend frozen blueberries, spinach, Greek yogurt, and plant-based milk until smooth and creamy. Then, proceed with adding the protein powder and give it another blend to mix nicely. Finally, pour into bowls and top with granola and fresh berries.

Macros (per serving):

Calories: 250, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 5g, Protein: 20g

Vegan ice cream

If you’re rock the vegan meal plan, this recipe is exactly what you’re looking for. This strawberry oat milk ice cream is both vegan and gluten-free, offering a delightful blend of creamy oat milk, sweet strawberries, and a hint of maple syrup.

• 2 cups frozen strawberries;
• 1 cup rolled oats, soaked in 1 cup water for 2 hours;
• 1/2 cup unsweetened oat milk;
• 1/4 cup maple syrup;
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract.

First, prepare the soaked oats by draining and blending them until smooth. Then, blend frozen strawberries, oat milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until creamy and combined. Freeze the mixture for at least three hours. It’s important to stir it occasionally during the first hour to prevent ice crystals.

Final thoughts

Enjoying a homemade, healthy ice cream is a delightful culinary experience paved with mindful choices. You can turn a traditionally unhealthy snack into a nutritional powerhouse by carefully selecting your ingredients. Enjoy the sweet journey of creating ice cream that’s as good for you as it is delightful.

In their attempts to find the ideal nutrition plan, many individuals encounter challenges along the way. Despite their efforts, they may need help discovering the perfect plan that aligns with their goals. 

This article will explore five common reasons individuals have not found their ideal nutrition plan. By addressing these challenges head-on, individuals can optimize their dietary choices. With these solutions, you can continue your path toward long-term nutritional success.

A lack of clarity on goals

When choosing your ideal nutrition plan, you must set precise goals. Without them, you can find yourself switching between different diets. That happens because you don’t fully understand what you are trying to achieve.

Setting goals motivates you to stick to your diet and commit to a nutrition plan. You may simply want to lose or gain weight. Your goal might also be to improve your athletic performance or manage a health condition. Whichever it is, knowing exactly what you want to achieve before setting up your meal plan is crucial.

A meal plan isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s quite the opposite, as everyone wants different results. In addition, everyone has a different body (body mass index, muscle mass, height, and weight). These factors are vital for making the ideal nutrition plan to follow.

Finally, setting clear goals will allow you to track your progress. By doing so, you can determine if your meal plan is effective. These goals will be the perfect indicator if you should continue with your diet or if it needs any changes.

A lack of knowledge

The ideal nutrition plan will cover all the nutritional values your body needs. Each person has unique requirements based on their body composition and goals. Hence, you must know how to meet those needs to get the desired results.

There are many diet plans for you to choose from. Vegetarian, intermittent, or carnivore diets are only a few examples. With that many choices, it can truly get overwhelming. It can get difficult to determine which one is ideal for your needs.

Hence, you must carefully examine your diet plan and its contents. You must confirm that it has everything needed to achieve your goals. Doing so is challenging, but you can always reach out to professionals to help you find the right plan for your needs.

Not addressing underlying issues

Underlying issues can be a significant obstacle in finding your ideal nutrition plan. Emotional factors like stress and anxiety can impact your nutrition and meal choices. Many people turn to food as a way to deal with their emotions. That usually leads to unhealthy eating habits. That’s why working on your emotional health is vital, like you would with your physical health.

Another issue preventing your meal plan from working is hormonal imbalance. They can affect your metabolism and appetite. That makes sticking to your diet difficult. If you suspect hormonal imbalances, you should reach out to a health specialist. They will help you to identify and address any issues.

Lack of time or availability of healthy products

Another reason you are still looking for your ideal nutrition plan can be a lack of time or availability of healthy products.

If certain foods aren’t available when you need them, you might pick the wrong substitute and fail to hit your caloric goals. Similarly, if you lack the time to prepare the next meal on your nutrition plan, the faster option is usually not as healthy.

To solve this, you can resort to the meal prep option. When you do have the time for shopping and cooking your meals, use it for bulk buying and preparation. For example, meat and veggies are excellent options for meal prep. That also applies to soups and starches.

However, if you still don’t have enough time to prepare your food in bulk, there are more alternatives. You can opt for our healthy food delivery service and get all your meals at your doorstep. Simply choose the meal plan that aligns with your goals and leave the rest to us. We’ll prepare each meal according to your exact needs and deliver them three times per week, ensuring their freshness.

Trial and error

To make the best possible nutrition plan, trial, and error must be balanced. Results will take time to show. It’s not always possible to see the effectiveness of a nutrition plan immediately. 

By using trial and error, you can monitor the long-term effects of a meal plan. That allows you to make adjustments based on what worked and what didn’t over a certain period.

Too much experimenting can also slow down your progress for the same reason. Since results take time, you might think your nutrition plan isn’t effective. However, you must be patient to see the results. In that process, changing things up can sometimes cause more harm than good.

Once you have a solid meal plan, stick to it for a few months before making changes. People can react differently to various foods. Of course, if you notice that certain foods aren’t sitting well, search for alternatives that will suit your body better. When you find the right combination, stay patient and keep tracking your results. After a few months, you will have the ideal answer as to whether you are on the right path.

In summary

Finding the ideal nutrition plan can be a challenging task. Everyone has their specific goals and preferences, and a meal plan must cater to their needs. Other factors like dietary and health restrictions are also vital when choosing the right meal plan.

Nutrition science keeps evolving, making it essential to stay updated with the latest research. To balance these factors, you must experiment and try out different things. The safe option is to reach out to professionals and get their assistance. Regardless, being patient and committed is the key to discovering an ideal meal plan.

Introducing seasonal produce is undoubtedly the best way to enjoy the freshest ingredients that nature has in stock. They burst with freshness and exciting flavors, which is the perfect opportunity to spice up your meals with the healthiest fruits and veggies.

But before we get the recipes, let’s first take a closer look at which ingredients are at their peak in the winter season.

Getting the best out of winter seasonal produce delights

As the temperature drops, the winter seasonal produce opens up countless opportunities for your culinary creativity. These seasonal fruits and vegetables have distinct flavors and textures that you can translate into exquisite meals.

In addition to their exceptional taste, winter seasonal produce comes packed with essential nutrients which is vital for staying healthy in the winter. Vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants, and many other immunity-strengthening nutrients make these items a fantastic addition to your recipe book. Now, let’s get to the winter seasonal produce this December has to offer.

Fruit in season now

Pomegranates

The jewel-like seeds of pomegranates add a touch of elegance to your dishes. They’re juicy, delicious, and incredibly healthy, with perks like:

• promotes heart health;
• anti-inflammatory properties;
• rich in antioxidants;
• digestive health;
• skin health, and much more.

Apples

While apples are available year-round, they truly shine in the winter months. The crisp texture and sweet-tart flavor of varieties like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith make them perfect for both snacking and cooking. The versatility of this seasonal produce allows you to include them in salads, pies, or simply enjoy them on their own.

Citrus fruits

December is synonymous with citrus fruits, bringing a burst of sunshine to the cold season. Oranges, grapefruits, and mandarins are in their prime, and there are plenty of recipes you can include them in. You can even make healthy juices and shots as a quick and convenient immunity booster. On top of their refreshing taste, they’re packed with nutrients that’ll ward off winter blues and keep you healthy.

In addition to these, you can also enjoy other seasonal produce fruits like:

• kiwis;
• persimmons;
• cranberries;
• dates;
• dragon fruit;
• passion fruit.

Vegetables in season now

Brussels sprouts

These tiny green veggies are packed with nutrients and at their best during the winter months. They’re known for their versatility in the kitchen, from sautéing to shredding and incorporating them into salads. However, Brussels sprouts truly shine in the nutrient region, as they’re rich in vitamins K, C, and A, magnesium, potassium, and other health-promoting goodies.

Winter squash

Acorn, butternut, and spaghetti squash are abundant in winter. Their sweet and nutty flavors make them perfect for soups, stews, and even roasted dishes. Plus, they are rich in vitamins and fiber, so your health will be well-protected by adding these to the menu.

Root vegetables

Root veggies like carrots, parsnips, and turnips are another seasonal produce that thrives in the winter chill. As you’d expect, they are delicious and excellent sources of essential nutrients. Roast, mash, or include them in hearty winter stews to enjoy their wholesome goodness.

In addition to these, you can also enjoy other seasonal produce vegetables like:

• leafy greens;
• cruciferous vegetables;
• onions and garlic;
• potatoes;
• winter herbs;
• fennel.

Seasonal produce recipes

Now that we’ve explored the richness of winter seasonal produce, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and create some delightful recipes. 

Citrus-infused Brussels sprouts salad

This salad harmonizes the robust flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts with the refreshing zest of citrus fruits. When topped with pomegranate seeds and crumbled feta cheese, it becomes a symphony of colors, flavors, and nutritional goodness. Here’s what you’ll need to make it:

• Brussels sprouts, halved;
• mixed greens;
• oranges, segmented;
• pomegranate seeds;
• feta cheese, crumbled;
• olive oil;
• balsamic vinegar;
• salt and pepper to taste.

Roast halved Brussels sprouts until golden brown. Combine mixed greens, roasted Brussels sprouts, orange segments, and a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, tossing gently to coat. Top it off with crumbled feta cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of citrusy freshness.

Roasted winter vegetable medley

This wholesome dish features a colorful array of carrots, parsnips, and butternut squash, roasted to golden perfection and infused with the aromatic flavors of rosemary and thyme. The ingredients needed for this dish are:

• carrots, peeled and sliced;
• parsnips, peeled and sliced;
• butternut squash, diced;
• Olive oil;
• rosemary and thyme, minced;
• salt and pepper to taste.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).In a large baking dish, toss together sliced carrots, parsnips, and diced butternut squash. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle minced rosemary and thyme over the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper and coat evenly. Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and golden brown. You can serve it as a delightful side dish to complement your main course.

Roasted apple and root vegetable hash

This delicious dish merges the comforting sweetness of roasted apples with the hearty flavors of healthy carrots, sweet potatoes, and red onions. It can serve as a side dish or you can enjoy it on its own, and here’s how to make it:

• apples, peeled and diced;
• sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed;
• carrots, peeled and chopped;
• red onion, sliced;
• Olive oil;
• thyme, fresh or dried;
• cinnamon;
• salt and pepper to taste.

Preheat the oven once again to 400°F (200°C). Toss diced apples, sweet potatoes, chopped carrots, and sliced red onions in olive oil. Spread everything on a baking sheet and sprinkle with thyme, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Proceed with roasting until the vegetables get tender and caramelized, about 25-30 minutes. Serve this aromatic and sweet-savory roasted apple and root vegetable hash as a flavorful side dish or a delightful brunch option.

Final thoughts

Opting for seasonal produce is a flavorful approach to your cooking efforts that combines deliciousness with healthy nutrition. Seasonal fruits and vegetables are harvested at their peak, so you’ll get the best out of each ingredient you choose.

Let the season guide your culinary choices, savoring the simple joy of combining health with the delicious richness of winter’s harvest.

If you’re looking for a healthy and convenient nutrition plan, you should probably consider meal delivery services. Why? Easy. Meal delivery services provide consistent calories on a daily basis. At the same time, they keep you away from the “bad stuff” with too many carbs and keep you on the low carb meal plan.

In this article, we’ll explore your options for how to find the perfect meal delivery service near you.

The appeal of low carb meal delivery services

Here’s why you’ll find meal delivery services super appealing. Let’s break it down for you.

First off, convenience is the name of the game. With meal delivery services, you can say goodbye to grocery store madness and the hassle of meal planning. Instead, picture this: just a few clicks or taps, and voila! Delicious, ready-to-eat meals magically arrive at your doorstep. No more stressing about what to cook or spending ages in the kitchen. You can reclaim that precious time and use it for things you actually enjoy.

These services cater to all kinds of tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or maintain a low carb meal plan, they’ve got you covered. Say goodbye to the headache of figuring out what to eat and hello to a menu filled with dishes that match your preferences. It’s like having a personal chef who knows exactly what you like.

And the best part? The food is seriously top-notch. If you know how to pick the right service. Many meal delivery services team up with professional chefs to whip up restaurant-quality meals. So you get to savor scrumptious dishes without the hassle of making reservations or burning a hole in your wallet. It’s like treating yourself to a fancy dining experience right at home.

Last but not least, these services open up a world of culinary adventure. You can explore new flavors and cuisines without leaving your kitchen. They often offer diverse menus inspired by various traditions, so you can try exciting dishes you might never have considered before.

That’s why people opt to embrace the convenience, variety, and gourmet experience of meal delivery services.

How to know if a meal delivery service delivers to your address?

To determine if a meal delivery service delivers to your address, there are a few simple steps you can take. Start by visiting the service’s website or app and look for an option to enter your address or ZIP code.

This will allow you to check if they operate in your area. Alternatively, you can reach out to their customer support team via phone or email and provide them with your address.

They will be able to confirm whether they can deliver to your location. Remember to double-check any delivery restrictions, such as minimum order requirements or delivery fees, to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Best way to choose a meal delivery service near you

When you’ve selected your top 5 options for meal delivery services, here’s how to narrow it down from there.

Check out review websites and customer testimonials. Take a look at what others are saying about their experiences with different meal delivery services. Pay attention to factors like food quality, delivery reliability, and customer service. This will give you a better idea of which ones are worth considering.

Another great way to find meal delivery services is by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or coworkers. They might have personal experiences or know someone who does. Word-of-mouth can be a valuable resource when it comes to finding reliable and trustworthy services.

Don’t forget to explore social media platforms as well. Many meal delivery services have a presence on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Follow their pages to get a feel for their offerings, check out customer reviews, and even snag some exclusive deals or discounts.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to reach out directly to the meal delivery services you’re interested in. Ask them about their menu, which often spans from low carb meal plan options to high protein dishes. Check out their delivery areas, and any special dietary considerations they accommodate. Their responsiveness will show their commitment to customers.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to find a fantastic low carb meal plan provider. Happy exploring and enjoying the convenience of delicious meals delivered right to your doorstep!

3 extra things every meal delivery service should have

Let’s give you three more pieces of criteria that you can use to narrow down your local meal delivery service. Your choice should always check all three of these boxes:

1. Menu Variety and Customization: A top-notch meal delivery service should offer a diverse and enticing menu. It should cater to various dietary preferences. It should include options for vegans, vegetarians, and those with specific dietary restrictions. The availability of customizable meals is also essential. That allows customers to personalize their orders.

2. Fresh and High-Quality Ingredients: The quality of ingredients is paramount. A reliable meal delivery service should prioritize using fresh, locally sourced, and high-quality ingredients. This commitment ensures that customers receive delicious and nutritious meals. They should also be transparent about ingredient sourcing. If they have any certifications, such as organic or sustainable practices, they should show them. That adds an extra layer of trust and confidence for customers.

3. Efficient Delivery and Packaging: Timely delivery is a crucial aspect of any meal delivery service. Customers expect their meals to arrive at their designated time slots. The whole point is convenience and avoiding unnecessary delays. A well-organized delivery system and clear communication regarding delivery updates are essential. Also, look for eco-friendly packaging. That plays a vital role in maintaining the quality and presentation of the meals. Packaging should be sturdy, leak-proof (when necessary), and environmentally conscious. That reflects the service’s commitment to sustainability.

By focusing on menu variety and customization, fresh and high-quality ingredients, and efficient delivery and packaging, a meal delivery service can deliver a delightful experience, surpassing customer expectations, and building a loyal customer base.

You probably already heard about cold-pressed juices and how healthy they are. Therefore, you must think that it would be a good idea to try them and see the benefits for yourself.

They are refreshing, sweet, and crisp and they should have a perfect balance of nutritious ingredients. More and more people decide to use them so they can reach some health, wellness, or weight goals. They go well with diet and meal prep plans for weight loss.

In this text, we will mention what is the difference between cold-pressed juices and normal juices, what are the benefits that cold-pressed juices bring. Additionally, we will mention some companies that do delivery, if that is more convenient for you.

What is the difference between normal juices and cold-pressed ones?

Regular juices

Making normal juices involves a centrifugal juicer that uses sharp blades that spin at a high speed to extract the juice. The process is faster than cold pressing, but, it generates heat, which is not good.

Heat is not good in this case because it destroys vibrant, flesh flavor and degrades the nutritional value of the ingredients. Additionally, many of them have a lot of artificial flavors, added sugar or sweetener, or other chemicals that will mask the low quality of the product.

Likewise, normal juices have to be pasteurized. During that, the juice gets heated to the temperature of 160 F. Pasteurisation indeed kills harmful bacteria, but, it also destroys many of the health benefits that raw fruits and vegetables bring. Pasteurization makes juice less flavourful, too. Soda is also an example of regular juice that is unhealthy.

Cold-pressed juices

Opposed to that, cold pressing does not involve heat which is important because there is nothing that lowers the quality. Cold pressing makes juice nutritious and flavourful. The difference in taste is something that you can notice immediately.

This type of making juice uses a hydraulic press. Therefore, provides more minerals, vitamins, digestive enzymes, antioxidants, and other nutrients compared to using heat when making regular juices.

First, we wash veggies and fruits, and after that chop them. Furthermore, the ingredients go to a hydraulic press and that machine applies pressure where every drop of juice from fruits and veggies is being used.

Depends on the company and the way they choose. Some calculate all the ingredients and squeeze them together, while others squeeze all ingredients separately and then mix them. The most important thing to remember is that throughout the process there was no heat at any point.

Benefits of cold-pressed juices

There are many benefits of drinking these kinds of juices and some of them are:

1.   Weightloss

When you start drinking juice every day, or even if you do juice feasts, you will start releasing weight immediately. This is the part that makes people excited, even more, when they notice better digestion, fewer allergies, a better immune system, a balance in hormones, and less disease. To clarify, it is a great way to lose weight, release toxins, and be healthy.

2.   They reduce cravings

We all have cravings for some kind of snack or food. The great beauty of the juice is that can suppress many cravings. For instance, if you crave sugar, an orange or apple juice can help you with that. The sugar that we get from vegetables and fruits is naturally occurring and way better than processed sugars. Adding spices and herbs will give your juice different flavors. Therefore, if you crave pizza, you will need tomatoes, basil, green pepper, and oregano, and you will have your pizza in a cup.

3.   Easy vitamin absorption

Of course that it is great to eat raw vegetables, but, drinking juice will help your body absorb vitamins faster. For instance, celery juice helps when you are dehydrated and green juice with lemon and ginger helps when you are tired. Whatever needs you might have, there is fresh juice that can help. Our body digests fresh juice in only fifteen minutes and during that time it gets the most of the nutrients from it. It is a great way for healthy hydration.

4.   They help us detoxify and heal

If you need detox and healing, juicing is one of the best ways to do so. Getting enough fruits and vegetables in our diet, on daily bases is very important and juicing makes this even more convenient. Vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that our body needs will come with fresh juice. That way they will be easily digestible and fast absorbed. For instance, if you drink a glass per day, you can boost your health, detoxify your body, have more energy, and increase recovery from an illness.

5.   They provide minerals, enzymes, vitamins, and nutrients

We did mention this previously, but, we needed to emphasize it. With juices, you are giving your body pure, fresh, live foods, and vitamins are fast absorbed. All the enzymes that we have in juice, help us with our digestion process.

Companies that do delivery cold-pressed juices

If you don`t have time, or just don`t want to make cold-pressed juices by yourself, here is the list of companies to choose from, so you can get them delivered to your door:

1.   Jet Fuel Meals

Juices are cold-pressed, raw, and natural. The blend tastes incredible and has three-five times of minerals, vitamins, and amino acids than when juice is made through another method.

2.   Raw Juicery

They gather ingredients from many different countries, and juices are slowly raw and cold-pressed the same day when you order and delivered to you the next day. However, it might happen that some blends are not available.

3.   Green House Juice

This company has convenient size bottles, and you can choose from three to twelve-pack sizes. They do not offer single servings. The juices are cold-pressed and lightly filtered so they can stay fresh for up to ten days.

4.   Lemonkind

These juices are sustainable, offered in packs, not single servings, and some of them are slightly sweetened. This company offers three different cleanses – detox, debloat, and weight loss.

5.   Juiced!

This company produces small-batched, raw juices and they offer different kits to choose from. However, shipping may be delayed so you need to have a backup plan, just in case.

Where else can you get these juices?

Besides the previously mentioned, you have other options. One of them is to get a blender, or a press (if you do not have one already) and just make sure that you always have fresh fruit and vegetables in the fridge.

Another way is to find a local juice store that can provide you with the juices you like. Additionally, you can check near grocery stores, many of them have a hydraulic press and you can choose the ingredients right away and make your fresh juice.

The bottom line

There are many reasons why people might decide to start drinking cold-pressed juices. However, one of the most common is that they are time savers along with their healthy side. Even more so if you decide to get a delivery service.

They are healthy and a great way to get all the vitamins from veggies that you don`t usually eat. It is faster to drink the juice than to chew a veggie that you don`t enjoy very much.

Whichever way you choose, you will be happy with the results. Enjoy your juices!

If keto is new to you or you have done it for a while, you probably decided to start it because you wanted to lose weight. Maybe you saw or heard of someone who has reduced their weight using the keto diet. A Keto meal plan is popular because one of the biggest benefits of following a high-fat and low-carb diet is weight loss.

We need to be aware that keto is not a quick fix. That is not something that happens overnight and we need to be patient and determined. It took us a long time to put on some weight, so we will need some time to lose it. 

You should always consult with a professional before you start a new diet plan or make changes in your lifestyle. Here are some tips and tricks for the keto meal plan for weight loss.

How does weight loss work with keto?

This diet plan helps you to increase energy levels and improves lipid status, and blood sugar. It will lead to weight and fat mass loss and reduces waist measurements.

How does weight loss work? When can we see the results? How much can you expect to lose? We are sure that these are the questions that you need answers to.

This diet works because it leads to a natural metabolic change where your body switches to the state of ketosis. It means that your body will start to use fat for fuel instead of glucose. It uses fat that you eat, fat that your body generates (cholesterol), and fat that your body has stored. You are eating fewer calories, most processed food is not in your daily diet, and your diet is balanced and consists of more whole foods. That is why it leads to fat loss, too. When your body enters ketosis it can lead to appetite suppression.

Losing weight depends on your body and your goals. It is all individual, sometimes you might lose 10 pounds sometimes 200. Your age, body fat percentage, height, starting weight, activity level, or existing conditions have an impact on your metabolism and play a big role in your rate of loss. A healthy goal would be to maintain to lose one to three pounds per week.

If you stay at a calorie deficit and stay consistent, for the first month of keto, most people lose around 10 pounds or more. After a month your body adapts to burning fat as fuel. Adaptation can take weeks, so you need to stick with the plan to teach your body to be a fat burner in a difference of a sugar burner. In addition, managing electrolytes is important, too. You will need more sodium, magnesium, and potassium during this time so you can fight symptoms of keto flu. 

During the first stages of a keto diet, many people will lose weight fast as water loss. You drastically remove carbs from your diet and that is why you lose a lot of water weight. Fewer carbs will cause lover insulin, which allows the kidneys to eliminate surplus sodium. Of course, it is different for everyone.

Tips to lose weight faster

If you are new to this, or if you are on a keto diet plan, but weight loss is not happening, this is what you can do:

Start counting your calories.

Use a keto macro calculator to find out how many calories you need to eat if you want to lose weight.  You need to figure out where those calories should come from. Some of them need to come from carbs, protein, or fat. Follow those numbers for several weeks and see if it works. Plan your meals, or if you are not sure how to do so, the best idea is to get low-calorie meal delivery. It can help you relax a little bit if this is all new to you.

Seek outcome, not ketones.

Don`t think about burning fat all the time. Ketosis does not mean that you are burning body fat, and it’s not something that works for everyone. The important part is the results. Try different things until you find something that helps you reach your weight loss goals. This can sometimes mean that you need to eat carbs to get out of keto. One day a week have a carb refeed day, eat carbs before or after exercising or try different types of keto.

Try intermittent fasting.

A lot of people said that it worked for them. You are not eating for one part of the day, and then you have all your calories in a short time window. Itself, intermittent fasting is a powerful tool for overall health and weight loss. 

Try not to consume sweeteners or dairy.

Eating dairy can cause retaining water and carrying more weight around. It can stop you from reaching your goal. Even if you are lactose tolerant, too many dairy products can make you feel bloated. You don`t have to do this forever, just until the results start happening.  Too many sweeteners may cause inflammation or gastric distress and also lead you to crave sugary foods.

Exercise.

When we work out we burn more fat. Exercising helps burn glucose faster and helps you get into ketosis and stay there, which results in weight loss. If you are not sure how to start, try daily walks or jogging, or workout classes. You can also hire a professional coach. A coach will see your blind spots and help you stay on track. They will have a plan for you and help you get the results you want. Find someone who has a degree in Dietetics or Nutrition, or who is a registered dietician. A coach who knows what it is like to struggle with losing weight and who has already helped others.

Don`t eat between meals.

Snacking is not a friend of those who wants to lose weight. Most keto snack foods are caloric, like cheese or nuts. Meals are already high-fat and snacking can only add calories. Try to have three or two meals a day and don`t eat anything between them.

Drink a lot of water.

This is a big deal. If you drink enough water you will easily see the difference between real hunger and cravings, you will remove toxins and decrease appetite. Before you eat, drink water.

Be sure that you are eating enough salt.

When you are on keto your body retains water differently, so sodium and other electrolytes get out of your body quickly. You also need sodium and potassium. Vitamin C is also important.

Keep it simple.

Don`t stress and plan every step. You don`t want to overwhelm yourself because it will seem harder than it is. Complicated meals will seem too hard at the beginning. Get into ketosis using a simple keto diet plan. Give your body time to adapt.

Carefully read labels.

Sometimes it seems that food is keto-friendly, but we need to check carefully. In some products, there is starch or carbs that we are not counting and that can prevent us from getting into ketosis.

Try these things mentioned above and keep track of fat loss for a few weeks. They should lead to weight loss. If you are not seeing results after one or two months, maybe keto is not the right choice for your body and you can find something else that works better for you.

Summary

The main thing about making your keto meal plan for weight loss is to have a calorie deficit. As the change happens you can strengthen and shape your body by exercising, too.  The change will not happen fast and you may not see the results right away. It is different for everyone, so listen to your body, and encourage yourself. We are here for all your concerns. It is easier when you have someone to answer all your questions. 

Commit to the process and you will see the changes you wish. 

With so many things to do, meal preparation can be difficult, but it’s much more difficult and hectic when you’re trying to cut down on trips to the store. If you can afford it, healthy meal delivery services might be a solution. Nowadays there are so many different meal delivery services available online that can provide a healthy meal to your doorsteps.

So now don’t have to move around the city to get to some healthy meal points during our tiring schedule. We just need to get to some healthy meal delivery service websites like jetfuelmeals.com and need some clicks and payments and meal with on its way within no time. 

The Healthiest meal delivery services in 2021 are listed below;

• Jetfuelmeals
• Sunbasket
• Green Chef
• Blue Apron
• Gobble
• Freshly
• EveryPlate
• Purple Carrot
• Hungaryroot
• Fresh and Easy

Healthiest Meal Delivery Service

1. Jetfuelmeals

As a result, Jetfuelmeals is the healthiest meal delivery service, and it’s easy to understand why. In addition, it allows you to choose based on your preferences, such as cutting back on shellfish or going gluten-free. Dinners may be “ready in 15 minutes” if you’re pressed for time, or you can choose “luxury” meals from the brand’s culinary collection to feel like a gourmet. The delivery service of jetfuelmeals is rapid fast and they ensure that the food remains fresh and hot during the time of delivery.

As a result, the recipes are generally basic yet tasty. Examples include potatoes and chicken steaks with some gravy, sesame balls of chicken, and bagels. Jetfuelmeals offers you so many benefits. You can cancel any time of your order at any time with Jetfuelmeals’s subscriptions. As per reviews of already existing clients, the staff of jetfuelmeals is entirely supportive. All these multiple factors make jetfuelmeals.com, the best healthiest meal delivery service in 2021.

2. Sunbasket

Subscribe to Sunbasket if you’re considering the diet or if you’re concerned about food allergies. Licensed nutritionists approved all of the recipes, which include there are paleo, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available to consumers. As well as antibiotic- and hormone-free meat, Sunbasket utilizes sustainably sourced wild-caught fish and organic fruit that is in season and season only. In only 30 minutes, you can whip up meals.

3. Green Chef

Meal kits that are free of single-use plastic might be difficult to find, but Green Chef aims to be as environmentally friendly as possible with their meal kits and other products. Paper bags and cardboard boxes used to distribute the company’s kits are produced from recycled materials. The company’s website provides helpful tips on how to recycle the packaging. From the ice packs to the plastic bags, everything else may be reprocessed. The certified organic meals are made using ingredients obtained from sustainable and traceable farms and producers.

4. Blue Apron

Why did Blue Apron, one of the earliest meal-kit delivery businesses, become so popular so quickly? Anyone with little to no culinary expertise may easily follow the recipes, and they all take less than 45 minutes to create.

 Local farmers and fishermen are also used to obtain Blue Apron’s food (which is free of hormones and antibiotics). In addition, all of the packagings may be recycled fully. You do have to sign up for a plan, but if you want to keep it simple, you may sign up for as little as two recipes each week for two people.

5. Gobble

Everything is precut, marinated, and peeled, so you don’t have to worry about weeping while chopping onions. None of their recipes take more than 15 minutes to prepare, according to the company. Chef-designed meals are introduced every week, offering alternatives for people with a wide range of dietary requirements.

There is also a Lean and Clean diet with low-carbohydrate and lean protein alternatives that are under 600 calories. If you’d like to add breakfast, snacks, or sides to your order, you may do so when you check out. You can also purchase supermarket add-ons like sauces and grains at checkout. Two-person plans can contain as little as six meals a week, while four-person plans can include up to 12 meals each week.

6. Freshly

When it comes to meal kits, freshly is the service for you if you like the concept of getting them delivered, but wish they were already cooked before they were delivered. There are more than 30 nutritious meals each week that can be heated in three minutes thanks to the fresh collaboration with chefs. All you have to do is heat it and set the table.

There’s no processed sugar or gluten in any of the recipes, and there are plenty of paleo or Whole30-friendly alternatives, such as spaghetti squash with meatballs or slow-cooked pork with sautéed greens. Almost like ordering takeout, except the dishes are sure to be delicious and healthy.

7. EveryPlate

Every plate is the cheapest meal kit which is easily accessible in the market, EveryPlate takes great pleasure in being one of the best. A single serving of each meal costs only $5, and the site is quite straightforward to use.

Featured dishes include pie shepherd, Greek pitas chicken, and lemony linguine Alfredo. This includes a variety of Premium dishes including shrimp linguine and herb butter steak. A recipe card is included in each kit to help guide you through the cooking process, which includes photos and detailed directions on each card.

8. Purple Carrot

It is very easy to make vegetable dishes by using the purple carrot. Everything comes in a proper package that can be recycled and comes with a recipe booklet that explains how to prepare everything. Tofu, almonds, and quinoa are among the protein-rich components in the dishes, even though they’re vegan. Start your day well with a variety of nutritious and tasty meals. They are somehow trying to meet the standards of jetfuelmeals meal delivery service as jetfuelmeals is one of the best in the business. And because of following the right footsteps, there customers are increasing continuously.

9. Hungaryroot

There are many vegan and vegetarian food delivery services, but Hungry root is one of the best. Every aspect of the meal plan is adjustable, and it’s meant to be a non-judgmental approach. In addition to asking questions such as “what are your food goals?” or “are you a pescatarian or going peanut-free?” Hungry root also asks about your taste preferences, such as “whether or not you have a sweet tooth, hate cereal in the morning, or enjoy a savory meal”.

10. Fresh and Easy

Fresh and easy may be the only meal package that simplifies the entire cooking procedure. The ingredients which are prepared are delivered in the pan of the baking oven, so you can just pop them in the oven and dive in once they’re hot. For those who don’t have a lot of time to prepare but yet want their food to taste fresh and handmade, Fresh and Easy provides a wide variety of meals (and not like airplane food).