Getting Spicy

I wanted to start this post by saying something about teaching old dogs new tricks, but that just didn't seem right. Metaphors are good, but the reality is that we are not old dogs. We are vibrant people who, have several decades to continue to make a difference in other people's lives. Staying healthy to live long enough to do that, and keep up with those who are younger than we are, is key to successfully accomplishing such goals.
Another key to success? Variety. That's right. And when it comes to food, variety is not on everyone's radar. More often than not, we are rushing through eating, finishing some child's leftovers, or skipping meals all together. Not good. For those who are fortunate enough to have found Ideal Protein, incorporating the variety with the healthy can become challenging.
Have no fear- here are some tips and tricks and little ideas to keep your regular, and healthy foods interesting. If all goes well, we'll even have more resources for you in the coming weeks, just in time for grilling season!

• Whether in an early Phase or Maintenance Phase of Ideal Protein, stick with olive oil. It's better for you and tastes just as good when rubbed on a roast chicken before cooking, or drizzling over veggies to be roasted.
• When having your daily salads my most successful dieters stick with olive oil and vinegar. Simply sprinkle a little Italian Seasoning or Herbs de Provence over the lettuce and voilà! You have a sugar free, and very tasty, Italian or French dressing for your salad.
• Use Leeks. They are an approved vegetable, easy to find, and won't caramelize and turn all sugary when cooked.
• Running out of veggie options? Sauté a cup of mushrooms and a cup of leeks in a little olive oil and toss over your lean protein. You're getting veggies and adding flavor to your meal.
• Use spice rubs instead of marinades. Most marinades are loaded with sugar which helps with flavor and browning. Spice rubs without sugar add plenty of flavor and are often more interesting. Just apply liberally over any kind of meat, wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate a few hours or over night. Bring to room temperature about a half hour before cooking. The flavor permeates the meat and just by looking at these, can't you see all the flavor fun?!

So, have fun with your food. Try some new things, and remember: a few little dried herbs can take any meal from bland to awesome.