Loaded Sweet Potato Skins - Healthified!

Love loaded potato skins? This is usually a greasy bar snack, but the version below turned that grease-laden dish into a delicious appetizer that is healthy enough to eat for a meal! These baked sweet potato skins are topped with spinach, spiced chicken, turkey bacon, and parsley, with a dollop of Greek yogurt.

It was football game day, and I wanted a healthy appetizer for the game. I got this recipe from 21 Day Fix creator Autumn Calabrese and her brother chef Bobby Calabrese on FIXATE, the exclusive Beachbody On Demand cooking show.

Portion Fix Containers
1 Yellow
1 Red

Makes 4 Servings

INGREDIENTS

4 baked medium sweet potatoes cut in half
1 tsp olive oil
½ tsp sea salt (or Himalayan salt)
4 oz shredded cooked chicken breast
4 slices cooked turkey bacon
2 tsp thyme or salt-free poultry seasoning
1 cup steamed spinach
½ cup reduced-fat (2%) plain Greek yogurt
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Heat oven to 400° F.
2. Scoop flesh out of the sweet potatoes and reserve for another use.
3. Place skins on baking sheet. Brush with oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 10 minutes, or until crisp.
4. While skins are baking, combine chicken and poultry (or thyme) seasoning in a small bowl; mix well. Set aside.
5. Top each sweet potato half evenly with spinach, turkey bacon, chicken, yogurt, and parsley.

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Pumpkin Pie Energy Bites

I don’t know about you, but when the days start getting darker and that crisp breeze picks up, my craving for pumpkin pie, pumpkin pancakes, pumpkin spice lattes, and all the pumpkin-y goodness of fall skyrockets.

Lucky for me (and hopefully for you) pumpkin treats don’t always have to be unhealthy. These Pumpkin Pie Energy bites pack all the autumnal flavor I want without the added sugar and calories I don’t. Perfect for the very real struggle of trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle amid all the holiday temptation.

So why are these delicious little pumpkin balls called “energy” bites? Dates! The sweet and sticky fruit that holds all the good stuff in this recipe together is known to be a great source of energy and fiber. In addition, pumpkin’s high concentration of potassium helps replenish that important electrolyte after workouts. Sweetened with pure maple syrup and rolled in coconut flakes, these treats are a clean alternative to candy and cake cravings – and they won’t cause you to crash. Plus, the addition of raw pecans and hazelnut extract take the nutty and earthy flavors up a notch; because healthy doesn’t have to be boring.

But maybe the best thing about these Pumpkin Pie Energy Bites is that they don’t involve any baking. You can get that pumpkin pastry flavor without turning on an oven – just a few spins around a food processor and rolling into balls and you’ve got more than a dozen sweet morsels packed with clean and healthy fall flavor.

This Pumpkin Pie Energy Bites recipe is from Autumn Calabrese’s FIXATE cookbook. That might be helped by the fact that each serving includes not one, but two pieces of pumpkin goodness. And, this sweet treat doesn’t even use up those scarce and precious yellow containers, which is a major score. 21 Day Fix-ers, you know what I’m talking about! These energy bites count as one purple Portion Fix container and half of a blue container.

Watch 21 Day Fix creator Autumn Calabrese and her brother, chef Bobby Calabrese make a similar version of this recipe for Pumpkin Pie Energy Bites on their healthy cooking show, FIXATE!

Container Equivalents
1 Purple
½ Blue

INGREDIENTS

1 cup pitted dates
Warm water
½ cup raw pecan halves (or pecan pieces)
⅓ cup canned pumpkin puree
¼ cup unsweetened coconut flakes , reserve small amount for garnish
1 tsp . pure hazelnut extract (or pure maple extract)
1 tsp . pure maple syrup
2 tsp . pumpkin pie spice
1 pinch sea salt (or Himalayan salt)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Place dates in a medium bowl; cover with water. Let soak for 10 minutes. Drain. Set aside.
2. Place pecans in food processor; pulse until finely ground.
3. Add dates, pumpkin, coconut, extract, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and salt; pulse until well mixed. Place in a medium bowl. Refrigerate, covered, for 30 minutes.
4. Using clean hands, roll into tablespoon-sized balls; roll in reserved coconut (if desired).
5. Store, refrigerated, in airtight container.

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Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls - 21 Day Fix/FIXATE

Who can resist peanut butter and chocolate? (Answer: No one.) It’s a magical combination that hits all the right flavor notes, even if you don’t have a sweet tooth.

Thanks to Autumn Calabrese and her professional chef brother Bobby, you can have your peanut butter and chocolate and eat it, too — their recipe for Peanut Butter Chocolate Balls are the bomb. These kid-approved mouthfuls of sweet, snacky goodness are fun to make and even more fun to eat.

And kids of all ages can enjoy these: They’re the perfect finisher after a family dinner or a holiday, like Christmas or Valentine's Day!
Luckily these treats won't put you off track for your health and fitness goals, because they are perfectly proportioned for a healthy combo of delicious and nutritious.

Serving Size: 1 ball = 1 yellow and 1 tsp according to color coded portion control plan

INGREDIENTS

Parchment Paper
1 cup all-natural creamy peanut butter (only ingredient should be peanuts)
1 Tbsp cornstarch (I used GMO-free)
3/4 cup coconut flour
2 Tbsp pure maple syrup (I used stevia)
8 oz semisweet chocolate (62% cocoa or higher)
2 tsp extra-virgin coconut oil, unrefined
Directions:

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. 
2. Combine peanut butter, cornstarch, coconut flour, and maple syrup in a medium bowl. Blend well with a spatula. The mixture will turn in to a dough.
3. Shape dough into 24 1-inch balls. If dough is sticking to your hands, spray your hands with a little coconut oil spray. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet and stick a toothpick in the center of each ball. Place in refrigerator for approximately 20 minutes. 
4. When peanut butter balls are ready, place chocolate and 2 tsp coconut oil in a microwavable bowl. Heat in microwave at 50% power in 30 minute increments until chocolate is just melted. Be sure not to burn the chocolate. 
5. Remove balls from the refrigerator. Hold each ball by the toothpick and dip into chocolate, swirling to coat. Use small spoon as needed to help coat each ball. Return to baking sheet and repeat until all peanut butter balls are covered. 
6. Place baking sheet back in refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until chocolate is hardened. 
7. Store in an airtight container in refrigerator or freezer. 

Tips:

*You can also melt the chocolate in the microwave (This is what I did). Place morsels and oil in microwave-safe container. Microwave on 50 percent power for 30 seconds; stir. Microwave for an additional 30 to 45 seconds or until just melted. Do not overcook.

*To prevent the balls from sticking to your hands when you roll them, lightly coat your hands with nonstick cooking spray. (I just used a cookie scoop and not my hands).

*You can substitute the peanut butter for almond or cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter to make them nut free.

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Easy Chicken Noodle Soup - Fixate Style

Always warm, comforting, and good for helping to cure a cold, chicken soup is a staple! Made with whole, clean ingredients this recipe is from Autumn Calabrese's Fixate Cookbook and it fits perfectly into the 21 Day Fix or any nutritious meal plan.

Serves 4 (1 1/2 cups each) Prep Time: 15 min. Cooking Time: 20 mins.

21 Day Fix Container Equivalents (per serving): 

1 Red

2 Green

1 1/2 Yellow

INGREDIENTS

2 tsp. Olive Oil
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cups sliced celery (about 4 medium stalks)
4 cups low-sodium organic chicken broth
3 cups chopped rotisserie chicken breast, boneless, skinless
1 1/2 cups sliced carrots (about 3 medium)
1 tsp. dried oregano leaves
1/2 tsp. sea salt (I use himalayan salt)
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1 1/4 cups dry whole wheat pasta (like penne, rotini, shells, or farfalle) I used gluten-free brown rice and quinoa blend shells I bought at Trader Joe's.
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Heat oil in large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and celery; cook, stirring frequently, for 5 minutes, or until onion is translucent.
3. Add broth, chicken, carrots, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil. Add pasta, reduce heat to low; gently boil for 10 minutes.
4. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top before serving

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (per serving): Calories: 357 Total Fat: 8 g Saturated Fat: 2 g Cholesterol: 96 mg Sodium: 518 mg Carbohydrates: 25 g Fiber: 5 g Sugars: 5 g Protein: 44 g

If you would like more recipes like this and support in your health and fitness journey, or to be considered for one of my accountability groups, fill out the form below. 

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All Access Membership Challenge Packs - A revolution in workouts

Start the New Year with the gift of fit! Beachbody is giving a pretty big gift this season. As a coach my job is to support people on their health and fitness journey by running virtual challenge groups.

Beachbody has invited me to run a group in January that allows participants to achieve results and GET PAID TO GET HEALTHY through the Beachbody Health Bet!

But Beachbody has taken it one step further. Yesterday they announced a revolution in fitness as we know it through the ALL ACCESS ON DEMAND CHALLENGE PACK available December 27.

The Annual All-Access Beachbody On Demand membership provides total access to EVERY PROGRAM available on Beachbody On Demand, plus future releases!

SO WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?
Starting December 27, 2016, receive this limited time offer by purchasing either the Annual All-Access Beachbody On Demand + Shakeology Challenge Pack or an annual membership. 

Why is this so Revolutionary?
Beachbody has completely revolutionized the way we look at at home workouts with the previous release of programs like Insanity and P90X. People started to get incredible results while working out at home.

Now Beachbody is doing it again. They understand the importance of nutrition but also that weight loss and fitness is a lifestyle. It’s not a 21 day or a 30 day committment. It’s a long haul mindset that starts by giving you ALL the tools you need to achieve your results over time.

What is included in the Annual All-Access Beachbody On Demand + Shakeology Challenge Pack?

1) 1-Year Membership to Beachbody On Demand with all content included, plus future releases

2) Shakeology (choice of 30-day supply on Home Direct)

3) Portion Fix (includes 7-piece portion control container set, eating guide, large blue container & shaker cup)

4) Access to my virtual accountability groups throughout 2017 as well as 1:1 daily motivation and support.

What are my All-Access Price Options?

• The Annual All Access Beachbody On Demand Challenge Pack is $199 (not available until Dec. 27).
• The Annual All Access Beachbody On Demand Membership is $99.95. This option does not include Shakeology, the portion containers or access to my challenge group.
• You can also choose the Beachbody on Demand Kick Start Challenge Pack which includes the 3 day refresh, which is truly the BEST option to start fresh, cleanse and get on the path to success in the new year and that is $239 US and $277 Canadian. (not available until Dec. 27).
• If you bought a challenge pack between 12/1 and 12/26 you can upgrade to this challenge pack offer for $69 again by using the link below.
• www.BODMembershipChange.com on or after Dec. 27.

What if I already have the Beachbody Club Membership?
Coaches and customers who don’t currently have a Beachbody On Demand membership can purchase this membership.

If you are an existing Beachbody On Demand Customer you will HAVE to cancel your current membership by calling customer service at 1-800-470-7870 and canceling and then you will be price adjusted accordingly. Then, you can complete this form by clicking on the link to upgrade to the all access subscription www.BODMembershipChange.com. You cannot do this until the Dec. 27 when it is launched.

Workouts Included:
All content, digital tools and workouts available on Beachbody On Demand, including popular hits like 21 Day Fix, CORE DE FORCE, CIZE, 22 Minute Hard Corps, PiYo, and Country Heat, Hammer & Chisel, P90X3, Insanity, ALL OF THEM, plus future releases.

You will also have access to the Fixate Cooking Show as well as all nutritional guides PDFs and workout calendars.

How Long After I Order is All-Access Available?
Within 24-48 hours after purchase you can access Beachbody on Demand All Accesss!

What Do I Offer as a Coach?
As a coach, I have been on my own fitness journey for five years. I started my journey with 21 Day Fix, and learned about the importance of nutrition and long term commitment with P90X. Throughout the past three years, I’ve maintained my weight loss. My health and fitness journey is a lifestyle that I’ve commited to long term.

I am able to work with people who are ready to make change permanent. The all access challenge pack gives you the same tools I’ve used at your fingerstips. Want to gain muscle and tone? Hammer and Chisel is yours! Need to learn the basics of nutrtion? Great! Let’s start the 21 Day Fix? Love your cardio? Cool. Let’s kick butt with some Max30! You want a different MMA style workout? Let’s crush it with Core De Force. You have the ENTIRE catalog!

2017 is going to be your healthiest year to date!

With the accountability from me as your 2017 coach, the simplified nutrition of Shakeology and the Fix Portion Control program, as well as a catalog of top rated fitness programs, you have everything you need to get started on your journey and continue throughout 2017 and beyond.  

Are you ready to learn more? Complete the application below so that I may contact you within 24 hours.

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Get PAID to get HEALTHY!

Many people put their health on hold during this time of year. I get it, I used to be one of those people. I’d make excuses for myself….”It’s just to busy right now” or “I’ll be out of town too much” or “I want to bake Christmas cookies and go to parties” and so on and so forth. It wasn’t until I dropped those excuses that I found lasting health and wellness.

We all have a choice to make TODAY. Will you be making lasting changes in 2017? Do you want to break that pattern of excuses and do something TANGIBLE to increase you health and happiness? The HEALTH BET is back and can help you break the cycle of excuses forever. Last fall, it helped so many of my clients stay ACCOUNTABLE for a full 30 days and get them headed back on the right path with exercise and nutrition. Not only that, those that stuck with it for the full 30 days got a CASH payout.

Beachbody recently announced they’re doing it again, this time INCREASING the cash pot. 

My Health Bet Participants Get:

• Fitness program + meal plan
• 30 servings of Shakeology
• Peer support and accountability
• 1:1 coaching from me (I’ll check in with you if you go “missing”)
• Access link to My Challenge Tracker App
• Clean eating recipes

How it Works:

• No money required for buy-in
• Split a pot of 3M+ (to be shared by all Beachbody clients who meet the qualifications)
• Log 3 workouts/5 shakes per week
• That’s it!

Spaces in my Health Bet group will be limited so I can ensure I have time to give everyone 1:1 coaching. Reserve your spot today! No money is required for the buy-in. You only need ME as your coach and a challenge pack (a fitness program bundled with Shakeology). FLASH SALE: Everyone who signs up for the Team Beachbody Health Bet with me BEFORE 12/23 will also get a copy of FIXATE by Autumn Calabrese.

Please MESSAGE ME (Vanessa McLaughlin) on Facebook or fill out the form below if you are interested and I’ll help you find the right program for your needs and goals and set you up!

*Challenge Pack purchase required to reserve your spot.

FLASH SALE – Until Friday, December 23 ONLY – purchase your challenge pack through me and I will also send you a copy of the FIXATE cookbook!! 

Please fill out the application below for an exclusive spot in my Beachbody Health Bet Challenge!

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Beef Stew with Sweet Potatoes - Fixate style

My entire family absolutely LOVED this recipe. It takes some prep and planning for time. You need to let it simmer on the stove for 2 hours. Total time is about 3 hours but most of that it is simmering and you can go do other things, like maybe workout?

This recipe is from Autumn Calabrese's cookbook, Fixate, which has the container requirements for every recipe!

She also has an online cooking show of the same name, where she shows how to make new recipes, also with container equivalents. Want to watch the show? Contact me to find out how!



Beef Stew with Sweet Potatoes
Serves 6
Container Equivalents:

1/2 green 

1/2 yellow 

1 1/2 red


INGREDIENTS
1 tsp olive oil
1 lb. 10 oz. raw lean beef stew meat
1 medium onion chopped
1 medium carrot, sliced
2 medium celery stalks chopped
4 cloves garlic finely chopped
8 cups low sodium organic beef broth
1/2 cup red wine
1/4 tsp sea salt or Himalayan salt
1 tsp ground black pepper
1 tsp ground paprika
3 bay leaves
2 medium tomatoes chopped
2 large sweet potatoes cut into 1 inch cubes
2 tsp cornstarch
lukewarm water

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Heat oil in large pot over medium high heat.

2. Add stew meat; cook, stirring frequently, for 4-5 minutes, or until browned.

3. Add onion, carrot and celery; cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-6 minutes, or until onion is translucent.

4. Add garlic; cook, stirring frequently, for 1 minute.

5. Add 1 cup broth and the wine; cook, stirring constantly, scraping bottom of pan so beef doesn't stick, for 5-8 minutes, or until liquid is reduced in half.

6. Add salt, pepper, paprika, bay leaves and tomatoes. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; gently boil, stirring occasionally, for 5-8 minutes, or until liquid has almost completely evaporated, and tomatoes begin to break down.

7. Add remaining 7 cups broth. Bring to a boil over medium high heat. Reduce heat; gently boil, stirring occasionally, for 2 hours.

8. Add sweet potatoes, cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender.

9. Combine cornstarch and water in a small bow; whisk to blend.

10. Add cornstarch mixture to stew; cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes, or until stew has thickened slightly.

If you would like more healthy recipes, or support in your journey to get healthier, fill out the form below to be considered for my private accountability group where I give meal plans, recipes, tips to stay on track, and how to make healthy a lifestyle!

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Demand ME TIME Accountability Group

My son came home from school Friday with news about his lunch. "Mom, you forgot to put peanut butter in my sandwich. But don't worry, I just ate the bread plain and I still had my milk."

I forgot to put the peanut butter between the two slices of bread. It wasn't the first time.

But let me back track for a minute and start by telling you that I have royally screwed up motherhood. I mean, the crisp magazine, shiny images of motherhood - THOSE are not my motherhood and they have always been lost on me.

I would make a ridiculously good real life transformation for Pottery Barn, but let's be honest... I don't pottery barn. The transformation would be lost on the McLaughlin boys.

I Target.  I Marshalls. I Kohls.

I DO NOT Pottery Barn.

Now combine that with the fact that:

I am the mom that needs to be reminded of every email at least 50 times.
I am the mom that has forgotten the field trip permission slip.
I am the mom that rarely gets to the bus stop with my teeth brushed or my hair combed.
I am the mom who refuses to put clothes away. I mean ever. Everyone gets a basket of clean clothes in their room. That's it.
I am the mom who will spray a dirty T-shirt with Fabreeze when my kids really, really just HAVE to wear it that day,.
I am the mom that tries really hard to get her kids to eat healthy but every once in awhile they they eat chicken nuggets and mac n cheese.
I am the mom that has had to run the washer about twice per load because I forget about it.
I am the mom that has a messy house, stains on the carpet, handprints all over the wall, and knicks on every wall in the house.
I am a mess of a mom and I AM DAMN PROUD OF IT.

For 13  years that I have been trying to navigate the ever roaring rip tides of parenting I have always felt like I was being swallowed alive by the tossing waves.

Until I realized...

My kids are turning out to be pretty damn good.

And so that's what I want to share.

Aside from looking like a train wreck 90% of the time- I am pretty darn MOM-FIDENT.

Why I Believe a DEMAND ME TIME CHALLENGE is NECESSARY...
1. I've learned that moderation is a heck of a lot more gratifying than deprivation.
2. I've learned that I am more patient when I make myself a priority.
3. I've learned that it is not selfish when I have some me time. My time is 6 am. Every day. No one comes near mama at 6 am.
4. I've learned that failing at motherhood is part of growing in motherhood.
5. I've learned that perfection is a myth.

Because let's face it. Life demands so much of you. But do you demand more for yourself?

More energy? 

More confidence? 

More strength? 

More accountability? 

More support? 

More of what makes you feel ALIVE?

YOU deserve more.
I am looking for women who:

• Are willing to take 22-30 minutes a day to push play at home with a fitness program we select together.
• Will follow a simple meal plan that is kid friendly and husband approved.
• Will replace one meal with nutrient dense Shakeology.
• Are sick of getting asked the question "What's for dinner?" and never having an answer.
• Want to kick some of the bad habits such as- negative self talk to the curb.
• Want to FEEL CONFIDENT at the parties, in the skinny jeans and the dresses sitting in the back of your closet. 
• Are interested in a JUDGEMENT FREE environment to talk about the real life of moms.

What you will receive:

• Daily support, accountability, and a close community of women like you.
• A free downloadable app to track your fitness goals and check your progress.
• 30 Days of Beachbody on Demand including programs like, Chalean Extreme, P90X3, T25, and Hammer and Chisel.
• 30 day supply of nutrient dense Shakeology. 
• Customizable meal plans, container portion control system and recipes as well as access to the Beachbody on Demand exlcusive: Fixate, a cooking show by Autumn Calabrese, creator of the 21 Day Fix. 
• An opportunity to win $500 for submitting your results.
• Me as your virtual coach.

Please note:

This opportunity is open to 10 women who are willing to "selfishly" invest $4 a day in themselves in order to:

1. Feel CONFIDENT in their skin- lose weight, tone, up, gain muscle (or all of the above)

2. Gain energy to keep up with the demanding to do list

3. Give up the guilt and and stop asking, "am I enough."

I know *GASP* how can I possibly invest $4 in myself is what you are asking yourself?

What if it doesn't work?

It works.

I guarantee it.

And I can speak from experience, this could potentially change your life.

As an online virtual health and fitness coach, a recovering lawyer, and a mom who's just kinda winging it, I am opening the doors to my next online fitness and nutrition accountability.

In order to participate, please complete the application below so that I can message you before Sept 19.

*If you miss the deadline and would like to be considered for our next group, please complete the application so that I may provide you with upcoming details. 

Fill out my online form.

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You're INVITED to the COUNTRY HEAT Test Group!

Country Heat features the hottest country music, using fully licensed songs that you’ve probably heard on the radio. Not only did Autumn pick these songs for their popularity, she specifically matched her moves to the faster and slower beats to create the perfect interval training within each routine. The result? A fired-up metabolism that burns maximum calories and fat—in just 30 minutes a day!

Starting August 8, I will run a TEST GROUP for the launch of this program! And in my groups, my customers ROCK new programs and their results have been rewarded! AND, I will be doing the program and participate in the group not only as a coach, but also as a challenger!

Will you be one of the 10 participants I am allowed to coach through the 30 day program???
How does this sound...

Potential $500 winnings for sharing your results?
A free tee?
AMAZING RESULTS!
I am 100% IN and ready to lead!

So.....

What is Country Heat?

Country Heat is a high-energy, low-impact dance workout that's so simple and so fun, you'll love it from the very first step. Each 30-minute routine is packed with easy-to-follow dance moves set to the hottest country music around.

All you have to do is follow along and before you know it, you're scorching calories, burning fat, and melting away the pounds as you reshape your entire body – all in just 30 days.

Plus, it comes with an easy-to-follow portion control nutrition plan to maximize your results.

Click here for a full list of songs!

Who is the IDEAL Heat Participant?

Anyone who's looking for a simple, fun, and effective way to lose weight and get fit. While Country Heat is perfect for beginners, it's also a great cardio-based workout for people at all fitness levels who like to dance or want to stay in shape. It's also a great choice for people who like to dance but are intimidated by choreography.

There are no complicated moves, no weights or equipment—just follow along and you'll be dancing right from Day One. Also great for anyone looking for a low-impact exercise program (no jumping or weights).

Test Group Participants will Also Receive:
** As a thank you to all of my test group participants, I will include Autumn's exclusive bonus workout, Dance Mash-Up.
***Upon completion of the program each participant will receive a free t-shirt when they submitting their results and could potentially win $500 or more!

Participant Expectations:
1. Participants will be expected to check in daily to our accountability group using the challenge group tracker app.
2. Participants will follow the workout schedule designed by Autumn Calabrese for the 4 weeks of the program. (Additional workouts are ok to do as well!)
3. Tracking results is absolutely required!
4. Participants will be given a variety of recipes, meal ideas, and snack options, but will be expected to follow a meal plan designed to help them lose weight, shred fat, and build muscle. Meal plan options will be provided.
5. One meal a day will be replaced with nutrient dense Shakeology. Shakeology is a complete meal replacement that will be part of the included meal plans designed to help you optimize results.

How do I sign up?

1. Complete the application below to be added to the launch email list. You will receive an email update once you've submitted the application.

2. The program will be released on July 28. Participants will receive a link to a discounted test group challenge pack which includes all the necessary workouts, meal plans, and challenge tracker account information needed for the test group. The only cost is that of the challenge pack.

3. Refer a buddy and receive the Fixate Cookbook! It will help you bring best nutrition to this amazing workout.

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Banana Oat Pancakes - 21 Day Fix

I remember going to listen to Tony Horton (creator of P90X and it's iterations) speak, and he said: "I used to eat pancakes for breakfast. That's butter, sugar, flour, and eggs. I might have well been eating birthday cake, as it has the same ingredients!"

I've always tried to eat healthy, but I realized this was true. Pancakes had the same ingredients as birthday cake! Time to find a healthier version.

These from the FIXATE cookbook are delicious and healthy, and the real test came when my husband (a true buttermilk pancake lover) and my kids tried them. They finished the entire batch; I tripled the recipe.

Autumn Calabrese, the creator of 21 Day Fix and 21 Day Fix Extreme, wrote a cookbook called FIXATE. The greatest feature of this cookbook: It gives the container equivalents for each recipe!
Thank you Autumn Calabrese for providing me with a healthy alternative to cake!

Container Equivalents:
1 yellow
1/2 purple

Makes 8 pancakes, 2 per serving.

INGREDIENTS

1 cup unsweetened almond milk
2 large eggs
1 large ripe banana
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
1 tsp. baking powder, gluten-free
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon (we love cinnamon, so I used 1 tsp.)
dash sea salt or Himalayan salt
2 cups old fashioned, gluten free, rolled oats
1/2 tsp. extra-virgin, organic coconut oil
3 cups fresh mixed berries (I made three batches, and used blueberries for one, then 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips for the next batch, and plain for the final batch to please the 3 tastes in my house).

DIRECTIONS

1. place almond milk, eggs, banana, extract, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and oats in a blender. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat oil in nonstick skillet over medium-low heat.
3. Pour 1/4 cup batter onto the skilled; cook for 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles form around the edges of the pancake. Cook for additional 90 seconds.
4. Continue with the remaining batter.
5. Serve with fresh berries.

Nutritional information:
Per serving (2 pancakes)
Calories: 137
Total Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 47mg
Sodium: 139mg
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 5g

For more healthy recipes and support in your fitness and nutrition journey, check out my accountability groups or fill out the form below for more info!

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Banana Oat Pancakes - FIXATE style

I remember going to listen to Tony Horton (creator of P90X and it's iterations) speak, and he said: "I used to eat pancakes for breakfast. That's butter, sugar, flour, and eggs. I might have well been eating birthday cake, as it has the same ingredients!"

I've always tried to eat healthy, but I realized this was true. Pancakes had the same ingredients as birthday cake!  Time to find a healthier version.

These from the FIXATE cookbook are delicious and healthy, and the real test came when my husband (a true buttermilk pancake lover) and my kids tried them. They finished the entire batch; I tripled the recipe.

Autumn Calabrese, the creator of 21 Day Fix and 21 Day Fix Extreme, wrote a cookbook called FIXATE. The greatest feature of this cookbook: It gives the container equivalents for each recipe!
Thank you Autumn Calabrese for providing me with a healthy alternative to cake!

Container Equivalents:
1 yellow
1/2 purple

Makes 8 pancakes, 2 per serving.

INGREDIENTS

1 cup unsweetened almond milk
2 large eggs
1 large ripe banana
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
1 tsp. baking powder, gluten-free
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon (we love cinnamon, so I used 1 tsp.)
dash sea salt or Himalayan salt
2 cups old fashioned, gluten free, rolled oats
1/2 tsp. extra-virgin, organic coconut oil
3 cups fresh mixed berries (I made three batches, and used blueberries for one, then 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips for the next batch, and plain for the final batch to please the 3 tastes in my house).

DIRECTIONS

1. place almond milk, eggs, banana, extract, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and oats in a blender. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat oil in nonstick skillet over medium-low heat.
3. Pour 1/4 cup batter onto the skilled; cook for 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles form around the edges of the pancake. Cook for additional 90 seconds.
4. Continue with the remaining batter.
5. Serve with fresh berries.

Nutritional information:
Per serving (2 pancakes)
Calories: 137
Total Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 47mg
Sodium: 139mg
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 5g

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2

Pumpkin Muffins with Maple Cream Cheese - FIXATE style

It's the season for EVERYTHING pumpkin!  Pumpkin coffee, cookies, breads, soups, raviolis, butter, crackers, cereal, and today at the store, I even saw, pumpkin spice peanut butter!!

However, these pumpkin foods are usually full of processed ingredients and imitation flavorings. When I saw this recipe in the FIXATE cookbook, I knew I had to try it, especially with the cream cheese center! Full of whole foods, clean ingredients and healthy, these muffins were perfect, paired with coffee as an afternoon snack.

Another delicious recipe from this book, and I'll be making these every fall!! 

(Makes 2 Servings)
Per serving:
1 purple

1 orange

INGREDIENTS

2 oz cram cheese

1 TBSP pure maple syrup (I used organic, local honey, because I don't like maple syrup)

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1 cup canned pumpkin puree

1 1/2 cups almond flour

1/4 tsp. baking soda (gluten free)

1 dash sea salt

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees

2. Prepare nine muffin cups by lining them with muffin tin liners or coating with spray. Set aside.

3. Combine cream cheese and maple syrup (or honey) in a small bowl. Mix well, set aside. 

4. Combine egg and pumpkin in a medium bowl, mix well. Set aside.

5. Combine almond flour, baking soda, and salt i a medium bowl. Mix well. 

6. Add almond meal mixture to egg mixture; mix until just blended.

7. Spoon batter into each prepared muffin cup, filling a little less than 1/2 full.

8. Spoon about 1 heaping tsp. cream cheese mixture into the center of each muffin. Evenly fill muffin cups 3/4 full with remaining batter.

9. Bake 16-18 minutes, or until golden brown and toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. 

10. Transfer muffins to rack to cool.

Nutritional Information

Total Fat 13g

Saturated Fat 2g

Cholesterol 28 mg

Sodium 166 mg

Carbohydrates 8g

Fiber 3g

Sugars 3g

Protein 6g

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Mac and Cheese - FIXATE Style

Who doesn't love a warm, cheesy, creamy comforting bowl of Mac and Cheese? But the boxed stuff is processed and full of preservatives, and the real, homemade version is full of saturated fat and calories. I don't know about you, but it's tough for me to just eat a 1/2 cup - the recommended serving size. All that creamy, melted cheese and carb-laden pasta, I could jump in a pan of homemade mac and cheese.

Lucky for me, Autumn Calabrese, creator of 21 Day Fix and 21 Day Fix Extreme, wrote a cookbook called FIXATE. The greatest feature of this cookbook: It gives the container equivalents for each recipe! AND it includes a healthified recipe for Mac and Cheese, still comforting, still cheesy, and still delicious, and for a TWO CUP SERVING!


I made mine gluten free with the ingredients in parentheses below, but the original recipe calls for whole wheat pasta.

Makes 8 two cup servings
Prep Time: 20 min. Cooking Time: 17 min.

CONTAINER EQUIVALENTS (per serving)
1/2 Green

1/2 Yellow
1/2 Red

1 Blue

1/2 teaspoon

INGREDIENTS

4 oz. dry whole wheat macaroni (I used quinoa/brown rice blend fusilli from Trader Joe's)
4 tsp. organic grass-fed butter
2 TBSP unbleached whole wheat flour (I used brown rice flour)
1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk
1 1/4 cups freshly grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese
3 cups cooked, chopped chicken breast, boneless, skinless
4 cups chopped broccoli florets, steamed
1 tsp. sea salt
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS
1. Cook pasta according to package directions. (Do not use salt or oil if suggested in directions). Set aside.
2. Melt butter in large saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add flour; cook, whisking constantly, for 1 minute or until brown (don't let it burn).
4. Slowly whisk in almond milk; cook whisking constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes, or until mixture thickens and there are no lumps.
5. Reduce heat to low. Add cheese; cook, whisking constantly, for 2 to 3 minutes or until melted.
6. Add chicken, broccoli, salt, and pepper; cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute, or until heated through.
7. Serve immediately

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

Calories: 245 per 2 cup serving
Total Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Cholesterol: 68 mg
Sodium: 486 mg
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugars: 0 g
Protein: 25 g

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0

Almond Chocolate Protein Bars - FIXATE Style

My husband loves sweets.....BUT they have to be healthy....AND taste delicious!  He's also always looking to get more protein in his diet, because he lifts weights.  So, for quick protein on the go, he buys protein bars. But then I told him to look at the sugar content!!  Either the bars are loaded with sugar, or contain artificial sweeteners.

When I found these protein bars in the FIXATE cookbook, and made them, they met all his requirements: sweet, protein filled, healthy, clean ingredients, and taste delicious!!  Another plus: no cooking!!

Autumn Calabrese, the creator of 21 Day Fix and 21 Day Fix Extreme, wrote a cookbook called FIXATE. The greatest feature of this cookbook: It gives the container equivalents for each recipe!

These protein bars are gluten free, and sugar free, and I've enjoyed one every afternoon with a cup of coffee.

Makes 16 square bars
Prep Time: 15 min. Cooking Time: None!! You just put them in the freezer!

CONTAINER EQUIVALENTS (per serving)
1/2 Yellow
1/2 Red

INGREDIENTS
1 cup oat flour, gluten-free
1 cup whey protein powder, vanilla flavor
1 cup almond flour
1/2 tsp. sea salt
1 cup all natural almond butter
2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, (melt for 30 seconds in microwave, take out and stir, melt for another 30 seconds in microwave, take out and stir - continue process until completely melted).

DIRECTIONS

1. Line 8x8 inches baking pan with parchment paper. Set aside.
2. Place oat flour, protein powder, almond flour and salt in food processor; pulse to mix.
3. Add almond butter and extract; pusle for 1 minute, or until crumbly.
4. Add almond milk; pulse for 1 minute or until mixture forms soft dough.
5. Press dough into prepared pan. Smooth top with spatula.
6. Freeze, covered for 15 minutes.
7. Remove from freezer and pour melted chocolate over protein bars, and spread evenly.
8. Freeze for 10 minutes until chocolate sets.
9. Cut into 16 squares 2x2 inches each.
10. Store in freezer for up to one week in airtight container.

TIPS:
I used Sun Warrior- Warrior Blend Raw Vegan Protein in Vanilla for the protein powder. It's soy-free, gluten-free, non-GMO, dairy free, AND sugar free.  So, I added 1/4 cup stevia powder to the mix and a few more drops of almond milk.  You could also add 1/4 cup of honey to sweeten it, if you're using a protein powder without sweetener.

You can substitute almond butter with peanut butter, cashew butter, or to make it nut-free, use sunflower seed butter.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Calories: 182 (per 1 square)
Total Fat 13 g
Saturated Fat 2 g
Cholesterol 17 mg
Sodium 122 mg
Carbohydrates 11 g
Fiber 3 g
Sugars 3 g
Protein 8 g

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Flourless Chocolate-Chickpea Brownies - FIXATE style

My three "boys" (my two sons and my husband) LOVE brownies. For their birthdays, they all rather have a whole pan of brownies, rather than cake.  So, for at least a year, I've been search for a brownie recipe that they will eat and enjoy, but not filled with junk and preservatives!

I've made about 10 pans of different clean-eating brownie recipes: some had spinach in them, some were gluten free and made with coconut flour, some came out like a pan of flat, tasteless cardboard, some had a grainy texture, and some had a chewy, almost gummy-like texture.  In other words, they did not pass the kid-taste test, they did not get two thumbs up!!

Until these!!!

I was a bit skeptical, as the main ingredient is chickpeas, but I made them anyway, because so far, of all the FIXATE recipes I've tried, the family loved them all! They were chocolaty, fudgy, and perfect for my boys!

Autumn Calabrese, the creator of 21 Day Fix and 21 Day Fix Extreme, wrote a cookbook called FIXATE, with tons of clean eating recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, desserts, and even Shakeology! The greatest feature of this cookbook: it gives the container equivalents for each recipe!!!

Here is the FIXATE recipe for brownies:

Container equivalent:  1 yellow

INGREDIENTS

Non-stick cooking spray

1 (15 oz) can chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed

1/4 cup organic, grass-fed butter, melted (or extra virgin coconut oil)

2 large eggs

1/2 cup pure maple syrup (or raw honey)

2 tsp. pure vanilla extract

1/3 cup organic, unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 tsp. baking powder, gluten-free

1 pinch sea salt

1/4 cup chocolate chips

DIRECTIONS

Hot out of the oven

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Line 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Lightly coat with spray. Set aside.

3. Place chickpeas, butter, eggs, maple syrup, extract, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in blender or food processor, cover, and blend until smooth.

4. Add chocolate chips; mix by hand until blended.

5. Evenly spread batter into prepared pan.

6. Bake for 25 to 28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the brownies comes out clean.

7. Cut into 16 squares.

Two thumbs up from my son and his best friend!!

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:

Calories 106 per 1 brownie

Total fat 5g

Saturated fat 3g

Cholesterol 31mg

Sodium 95mg

Carbohydrates 13g

Fiber 1g

Sugars 8g

Protein 2g

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1

Banana Apple Muffins - FIXATE Style

Today there was a fall chill in the air, and I was looking for something warm and comforting to go with a cup of green tea, that would satisfy my sweet tooth, and still stay within my clean eating meal plan.  I also had some overripe bananas to use, and was looking for something different than banana bread. I found these muffins in the FIXATE cookbook.

Autumn Calabrese, the creator of 21 Day Fix and 21 Day Fix Extreme, wrote a cookbook called FIXATE.

The greatest feature of this cookbook: It gives the container equivalents for each recipe!!!

These muffins are gluten free, dairy free, and sugar free, but taste like a sweet, bakery muffin!  My boys enjoyed these with a cup of hot cocoa!!

Makes 9 muffins
Prep Time: 20 min. Cooking Time: 18 min.
CONTAINER EQUIVALENTS (per serving)
1 Purple
1 Blue

INGREDIENTS

2 large eggs

1 cup mashed very ripe banana (about 2 medium bananas)

1 TBSP organic, grass-fed butter, melted

1 1/2 cups almond flour

3/4 tsp baking soda (gluten-free)

1 dash sea salt

1/2 cup chopped apple (about 3/4 of a medium apple)

1 TBSP cinnamon - the original FIXATE recipe does not include cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger, but it's fall, and these spices make food delicious, and make my house smell cozy, so I decided to include these and live a little!! :)

1 tsp nutmeg

1 tsp ginger

DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Prepare nine muffin cups by lining with muffin tin liners or coating with spray.
3. Combine eggs, banana, and butter in a medium bowl. Mix well. Set aside.
4. Combine almond flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Mix well.
5. Add almond flour mixture to egg mixture. Mix until blended.
6. Add apple. Mix until just blended.
7. Divide batter evenly between prepared muffin cups.
8. Bake 16-18  minutes, or until golden brown and toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Transfer muffins to rack to cool.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Calories per muffin: 161
Total fat: 12 g
Saturated fat: 2 g
Cholesterol: 45 mg
Sodium: 157 mg
Carbohydrates: 11 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugars: 4 g
Protein: 6 g

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