Lynbrook | New Hyde Park | NY

Fitness

RECIPE OF THE WEEK: STUFFED SPAGHETTI SQUASH

This week try some stuffed spaghetti squash. This zesty, southwestern-inspired meal tastes great and is healthy for you too!

Prep Time: 30 mins           Total Time: 1 hr 45 mins     Servings: 4-6

 Calories: 605kcal    Carbohydrates: 34g    Protein: 34g    Fat: 33g    

Ingredients/ Equipment:

  • 2 small spaghetti squash, cut in half and seeds removed (about 3 lb. each)
  • 3 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 2 tsp. kosher salt
  • 1 tsp. black pepper
  • 1 lb. ground turkey
  • 1 (1-oz.) packet taco seasoning
  • 1 (15-oz.) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 c. frozen corn
  • 1 c. salsa, plus more for serving
  • 2 c. shredded Mexican blend cheese (about 8 oz.)
  • 1 c. fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Plain Greek yogurt or sour cream, for serving
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced, for serving
  • Hot sauce, for serving

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  2. On a baking sheet, place the spaghetti squash cut-side up. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of the oil and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of the salt and pepper. Flip the spaghetti squash cut-side down and bake until fork-tender, 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  3. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil over medium heat. Add the turkey and cook, crumbling with a wooden spoon, until the turkey is lightly browned, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the taco seasoning and ½ cup of water and cook until thickened slightly, 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in the beans, corn, salsa, 1 cup of the cheese, and three-quarters of the cilantro.
  4. Let the squash cool slightly before carefully flipping over, cut-side up. Use a fork to loosen the flesh and form spaghetti-like strands. Divide the turkey mixture among the spaghetti squash halves and mix it gently with the squash strands. Sprinkle the halves with the remaining cup of cheese. Return the squash to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, 10 to 15 minutes.
  5. Serve the squash topped with yogurt, avocado, hot sauce, salsa, and the remaining cilantro.

Original recipe can be found at pioneerwomen here!

RECIPE OF THE WEEK: CILANTRO LIME CHICKEN TACOS

Enjoy chicken lime tacos this week.  A super tasty high protein full of fresh flavor and healthy ingredients. 

Prep Time: 15 mins       Cook Time: 10 mins       Total Time: 25 mins     Servings: 5

 Calories: 407kcal    Carbohydrates: 60.8g  Protein: 31.8g  Fat: 20.4g     Serving = 2 Tacos

Ingredients/ Equipment:

  • 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 8 to 10 6 inch flour or corn tortillas
  • Juice of 2 limes + zest of 1 lime
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp honey
  • 2 Tbsp cilantro, chopped
  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp honey
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 avocado
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 3 Tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp Sriracha
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup water, depending on consistency

Directions

  • Place chicken in a large ziplock bag or bowl.
  • To make the marinade, whisk together lime juice, zest, olive oil, garlic, honey, and cilantro until combined and pour over top of chicken until completely coated. Cover and marinate chicken for about 4 hours to overnight.
  • To make the coleslaw, combine cabbage, carrots, green onions and cilantro in a large bowl. In a smaller bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey and salt and toss together with slaw mixture.
  • To make the avocado crema, combine the avocado, garlic, cilantro, yogurt, lime juice, sriracha and salt/pepper in a food processor and pulse until combined. With the motor running, slowly add the olive oil and water until smooth until you have your desired consistency.
  • To cook the chicken, pre-heat outdoor grill or grill pan on medium-high heat and add marinated chicken breasts. Sprinkle with a little salt and cook chicken about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until juices run clear. Transfer chicken to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes before cutting. This keeps them juicy!
  • To assemble the tacos, place chicken in a tortilla and top with slaw and a drizzle of the avocado crema. Serve with a fresh squeeze of lime and enjoy!

Original recipe can be found at eatyourselfskinny here!

RECIPE OF THE WEEK: EASY LEMON BUTTER FISH

This week enjoy lemon butter fish. A fast, high protein meal that is delicious and will have you feeling fantastic!

Prep Time: 7 mins       Cook Time: 12 mins       Total Time: 19 mins     Servings: 12

 Calories: 302kcal    Carbohydrates: 9.9g    Protein: 25.7g    Fat: 19.8g

Ingredients/ Equipment:

  • 12 firm white fish fillets, about 6 inches long, 1-inch thickness throughout (cod, halibut, or mahi mahi are great )
  • 9 TB melted butter
  • Juice and zest from 1 medium lemon
  • 1.5 tsp kosher salt, divided, plus extra to taste
  • 3 tsp paprika
  • 3 tsp garlic powder
  • 3 tsp onion powder
  • 0.75 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 9 TB olive oil
  • freshly chopped basil or parsley leaves, for garnish and flavor
  • extra lemon slices for serving

Directions

  1. Use paper towels to thoroughly pat-dry excess moisture from fish fillets. This step is crucial for fish to brown nicely in pan – otherwise, it will steam instead of brown. Set aside.
  2. In a bowl, combine melted butter, lemon juice and zest, and 1/4 tsp kosher salt. Stir to combine well. Taste and add a bit more kosher salt, if desired.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine remaining 1/4 tsp kosher salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Evenly press spice mixture onto all sides of fish fillets.
  4. In a large, heavy pan over medium high heat, heat up the olive oil until hot. Once your oil is sizzling, cook 2 fish fillets at a time to avoid overcrowding; this allows for even browning.
  5. Cook each side just until fish becomes opaque, feels somewhat firm in the center, and is browned, about 2-3 minutes per side; lightly drizzle some of the lemon butter sauce as you cook, reserving the rest for serving. Take care not to over-cook, as that will result in a tougher texture. Season with extra kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  6. Serve fish with with remaining lemon butter sauce, basil or parsley, and lemon wedges.

Original recipe can be found at chewoutloud here!

RECIPE OF THE WEEK: SHEET PAN THANKSGIVING DINNER

Get your Thanksgiving plans in order and try this sheet pan Thanksgiving dinner. A great meal that the whole family will enjoy during the holidays!

Cook Time: 30 mins    Additional Time: 3 hrs    Total Time: 3 hrs 30 mins     Servings: 12

 Calories: 608kcal    Carbohydrates: 38g    Protein: 59g    Fat: 26.5g

Ingredients/ Equipment:

  • 1 boneless turkey breast, 2 to 2½ pounds
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided, plus more as needed
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 large garlic cloves, finely grated
  • ¼ cup light mayonnaise
  • 2½ tablespoons za’atar
  • 1-pound sweet potatoes, peeled and cut lengthwise into 1-inch-thick wedges
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 pound brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved lengthwise
  • ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
  • Fresh lemon juice, to taste

Directions

  • Heat the oven to 400ºF. If the turkey breast comes tied, untie it.
  • Pat the meat dry with paper towels. Season the turkey all over with 1½ teaspoons of the salt and the black pepper, then rub all over with the garlic.
  • In a small bowl, stir together the mayonnaise and za’atar.
  • Transfer 2 tablespoons of the za’atar mayo to a separate small bowl and brush that all over the turkey.
  • Set the remaining za’atar mayo aside. Let the turkey sit at room temperature for 15 minutes while you prepare everything else.
  • In a large bowl, toss together sweet potatoes, 1 tablespoon of the oil, the maple syrup, ¼ teaspoon of the salt, and the red pepper flakes.
  • Place turkey on a rimmed sheet pan and arrange the potatoes in a single layer around it. Roast for 20 minutes.
  • In the same bowl toss the brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of the oil, the cumin seeds, and the remaining ¼ teaspoon salt.
  • Give the potatoes a toss after roasting for 20 minutes, and push the wedges to one side of the pan to make room for the brussels sprouts.
  • Add the sprouts and continue to roast until the sprouts and potatoes are golden brown and a thermometer inserted in the thickest part of the turkey registers 145ºF, 20 to 30 minutes longer (for a total turkey roasting time of 40 to 50 minutes).
  • Allow the meat to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  • While the turkey is resting, season reserved za’atar mayo to taste and add a little more oil and salt, if needed. Season to taste with lemon juice. Serve the za’atar mayo alongside the turkey and vegetables.

Original recipe can be found at skinnytaste here!

RECIPE OF THE WEEK: THE BEST WHOLE ROASTED CHICKEN

Need some early ideas for Thanksgiving dinner, look no further. Try this best whole roasted chicken recipe and you may have a competitor for your Thanksgiving turkey this year!

Prep Time: 10 mins   Cook Time: 75 mins  Total Time: 1hour 25 mins   Servings: 6

 Calories: 354kcal    Carbohydrates: 13.9g    Protein: 32.9g    Fat: 19.1g

Ingredients/ Equipment:

  • 1 large carrot, halved lengthwise and cut into thirds
  • 1 stalk celery, cut into large thirds
  • 1 – 2-4 pound whole chicken, giblets removed and patted dry
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • salt
  • freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 head garlic, top sliced off
  • 1/2 yellow onion, cut into 2 large pieces
  • 1 lemon, cut in half
  • 4–6 sprigs fresh thyme

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
  2. To a small mixing bowl add the melted butter, garlic, lemon zest, 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme, and a generous pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper.
  3. Place the celery and carrots in a cast iron and skillet. Use a paper towel to pat the chicken dry and then place the chicken on top of the veggies, breast side up.
  4. Rub the melted butter mixture under the skin of the chicken as well as inside the cavity of the chicken, being sure to use all of the butter.
  5. Stuff the chicken cavity with the head of garlic, pieces of yellow onion, lemon, and fresh thyme. If you like, use a bit of kitchen twine to tie the drumsticks.
  6. Drizzle the olive oil over the skin of the chicken and then use a basting brush to ensure that the skin is well coated with oil. Liberally season the chicken with salt and fresh cracked black pepper.
  7. Place the chicken in the oven, on the middle rack, and roast for 1 hour and 15-30 minutes, basting every 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature, at the thickest part, reaches 165 degrees.
  8. Remove the chicken from the oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes in the skillet.

Original recipe can be found at allthehealthythings here!

RECIPE OF THE WEEK: HOMEMADE BLACK BEAN VEGGIES BURGER

This week enjoy homemade black bean veggie burgers. These healthy and tasty black bean burgers will never have you going back to regular burgers.

Prep Time: 15 mins   Cook Time: 20 mins    Total Time: 35 mins   Servings: 4  

Calories: 198kcal    Carbohydrates: 33g    Protein: 11g    Fat: 3g

Ingredients/ Equipment:

  • cooking spray
  • 1 (16 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • ½ green bell pepper, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • ½ onion, cut into wedges
  • 3 cloves garlic, peeled
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Thai chili sauce or hot sauce
  • ½ cup bread crumbs

Directions

  • Preheat an outdoor grill for high heat. Lightly oil a sheet of aluminum foil with cooking spray.
  • Mash black beans in a medium bowl with a fork until thick and pasty.
  • Finely chop bell pepper, onion, and garlic in a food processor. Stir chopped vegetables into mashed beans.
  • Stir together egg, chili powder, cumin, and chili sauce in a small bowl. Add to the mashed beans and stir to combine. Mix in bread crumbs until the mixture is sticky and holds together.
  • Divide the mixture into four patties and place on the prepared foil.
  • Grill on the preheated grill for about 8 minutes on each side.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!

Original recipe can be found at allrecipes here!

RECIPE OF THE WEEK: SHEET PAN LEMON GARLIC SHRIMP AND ASPARAGUS

This week enjoy lemon garlic shrimp and asparagus. This easy to make one pan high- protein low-carb meal makes making a healthy dinner effortless!

Prep Time: 5 mins   Cook Time: 15 mins  Total Time: 20 mins   Servings: 1/4th of recipe

Calories: 302kcal      Carbohydrates: 6.2g     Protein: 27g    Fat: 19.5g

Ingredients/ Equipment:

For The Asparagus:

  • 1 lb thin to medium asparagus, ends trimmed
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For The Shrimp:

  • 1 lb medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 3 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 Tbsp minced garlic
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, leave this out if you don’t like a little heat
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, garnish after cooking

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, melted butter, lemon juice, zest, garlic and seasonings.  Add shrimp and toss everything together until completely coated.  Set aside and let shrimp marinate while asparagus cooks.
  • On a large sheet pan sprayed with nonstick spray, arrange asparagus on one side of the pan, drizzle with olive and add garlic and lemon zest.  Toss until completely coated then season with salt and pepper.  Place in the oven and bake for 5 minutes.
  • Once asparagus has cooked, remove from the oven and add the marinated shrimp to the other side of the pan, arranging them so that they are all in a single layer.  Place everything back in the oven and cook for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, until shrimp are opaque and pink in color.
  • Remove from the oven and squeeze with additional lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh parsley.  Enjoy!

Original recipe can be found at eatyourselfskinny here!

RECIPE OF THE WEEK: CHICKEN CAESAR WRAP

This week enjoy a chicken caesar wrap. Loaded with flavor this high protein meal is the perfect grab to go option on the run!

Prep Time: 10 mins    Total Time: 10 mins     Servings: 4

Calories: 338kcal      Carbohydrates: 27g       Protein: 35g     Fat: 10g

Ingredients/ Equipment:

  • 12- oz. cooked chicken breast cubed or shredded – about 3 cups
  • 1/2 cup lite caesar salad dressing (120g) store-bought or homemade (see notes)
  • 1/2 cup salad croutons, cut in half (28g)
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese – freshly grated is best!
  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/4 tsp each: garlic powder & black pepper
  • 4 pieces green lettuce or romaine lettuce
  • 4 spinach tortillas I used Mission carb balance spinach

Directions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, caesar dressing, croutons, parmesan, lemon juice, garlic powder and black pepper.
  2. Lay the tortilla out and place the lettuce on top (it will pretty much cover the whole tortilla). Scoop 1/4 of the chicken mixture on top. Fold the tortilla lengthwise over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll into a secure wrap. Repeat for each wrap.
  3. Slice in half and enjoy! If meal prepping, slice wraps in half and store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Original recipe can be found at laurenfitfoodie here!