Our Favorite {Healthy} Meal
In our ongoing battle of the bulge, we do try--and actually do enjoy--eating healthier food (though as you may have noticed, "treats" are kind of our middle name too). Typically, California has the market cornered on healthier options, particularly since there is lots of access to fresh fruits and veggies year-round, but one thing that is lacking here that can only be found back South...ZOE'S! For the uninitiated among you, Zoe's Kitchen is the Greek food version of Chipotle (for those of you uninitiated, Chipotle is the Mexican food version of Zoe's, you get it?) Anyway, Zoe's is taking it's time crossing the Mississippi, so while we wait, we figured out how to make our favorite Zoe's staple--the healthy and delicious greek slaw.
ZOE'S GREEK SLAW
* Ingredients: 1 bag shredded cabbage ~ 1 6oz package crumbled feta ~ 2 - 3 chopped green onions (white & green parts) ~ 1/4 cup red wine vinegar ~ 1/2 cup olive oil ~ salt & pepper
* Directions: combine oil, vinegar, S&P in the serving bowl; top with cabbage, feta, and green onion; toss, then refrigerate until you eat it!
The great thing about this slaw is that it can be eaten alone or as the base for some good form of protein--grilled chicken, shrimp, even tofu (pictured above). Sauteed onions and/or mushrooms on the side are not bad either!
To round out this healthy mediterranean feast, we took some inspiration from our second home, Trader Joe's. It sells a small pre-packaged bean salad called "balela" that is delicious. Here's our take on it...
TJ'S BALELA
* Ingredients: 1 can of black beans (rinsed/drained) ~ 1 can of garbanzo beans (rinsed/drained) ~ 1 can of diced tomatoes (drained) ~ 1 minced clove of garlic ~ 1 - 2 chopped green onions (white & green parts) ~ 3 TBSP Olive Oil ~ 1 TBSP Vinegar ~ 1 TBSP Lemon Juice ~ Parsley (about 1/4 cup) ~ Mint (about 2 TBSP) ~ salt & pepper
* Directions: Mix all ingredients together, let flavors meld for a bit, then enjoy!
Another healthy eating secret--drink "La Croix" sparkling water! Sold at Target, Costco, Wal-mart, Publix, Kroger, etc. There's no calories, no sodium, no sugar, and no artificial flavoring--it's basically like drinking air in a citrus grove! Lots of yummy flavors too.
Oh and after all this healthy eating, why don't you enjoy a little treat. I think I know someone who can make a recommendation (here).