It’s suddenly that time of year again. That weird middle ground between winter and summer – otherwise known as spring, lol. It feels like one big, unnecessary pause. My mom and I were just chatting about this phenomenon, actually. In the past, I’ve hated the spring because it always felt so blah. This spring in particular, though, I’ve actually really enjoyed! And I credit alllll of that to New York weather. The buds on the trees, the sound of birds outside my window while I work from home, the light-jacket temps. Super nice! But now, I’m ready for that feel-good in the body, head-to-toe health, soaking in the sun energy…and I’m not getting it. I’m at the level of pale and sickly-looking that causes people around me to ask if I’m alright.
Needless to say, I feel drained, uninspired, and like I’m sitting in some weird limbo. It feels like even the seasons are waiting for something. And I didn’t know how to remedy that! For a second there, those feel-good summer vibes seemed to be nearly impossible to recreate in the springtime. Or are they?
What this post is about…
This post is here to help everyone else in the same boat. Where you want to start setting yourself up for success and feeling like you’re waking up from a loooooong hibernation. I’ve got some answers!
It’s no secret that my mom and I believe food is at the root of everything. Problems? Food can solve them. Had the best day ever? Celebrate with food! Feeling like you have no idea what to do next? Why not debate over food. So, we put our heads together on how to get out of this springtime rut and really embrace what spring is SUPPOSED to be about: new beginnings & fresh starts! I’m ready to feel GOOD again – and we have some recipes that will get us all back on track.
What we’re featuring are recipes that are high in nutrition, protein, and all of the good leafy greens. The answer is in the ingredients! So, we’re going to focus on meals that will bring color back into your skin, make you feel energized for the day ahead, and don’t bog you down in the process. Our suggestions?
Baked Flounder with Lemons and Butter
We are OBSESSED with any mild, white fish recipe whenever we feel the need to lighten things up. This recipe, in specific, is especially great. Flounder is naturally high in Vitamin B12, which is a nutrient that helps keep your body’s blood and nerve cells healthy. It also helps prevent megaloblastic anemia, a blood condition that makes people tired and weak – so lots of good energy production! Plus, the lemon in this dish isn’t just a great source of antioxidants, it also contains your daily Vitamin C intake, helps produce collagen for your skin, aids the body in absorbing iron, and supports your immune system. Not too shabby!
Mongolian Beef
Believe it or not, this recipe is one I turn to again and again to feel satisfied and full, yet super fresh and healthy! The base of simple jasmine rice makes it great for both digestive health and supports the immune system. But the beef and the broccolini are where the health benefits really shine! Yes, of course, there are sauces and spices and all that jazz in this recipe – but we’re not trying to cut out all of the good fats & carbs because that’s not the point of the post! We’re trying to FEEL better, and Mongolian Beef DEFINITELY checks that box.
So, not only does the beef taste delicious, but it feels great too. Red meat provides us with iron, zinc, and B Vitamins, while the broccolini on top is high in calcium and magnesium, which help to regulate blood pressure. As a cruciferous vegetable, it’s also high in fiber! Fiber keeps you full for longer periods of time, helps you digest food properly, and prevents constipation. It also keeps your blood sugar at a low level. Again: check, check, and another check!
Antoni Porowski’s Pulled Chicken w/ Cilantro & Lime
For the ultimate healthy & light meal, look no further than this recipe from Antoni. Simply shredded chicken, lime juice, red onion, and rice (or naan if you’re not GF). It’s incredible! The flavor profile is so layered and fresh while the post-meal-vibes make you want to run a marathon or clean your house. It really just gives you everything you need and nothing you don’t. And it fills you up 😉 Red onions are full of sulfur compounds that protect the body from ulcers and various cancers. They also fight bacteria in the urinary tract – which is great for anyone (like myself) who often deals with recurring UTIs. Limes, on the other hand, re high in Vitamin C and antioxidants. The lime juice in this recipe serves to improve immunity, reduce heart disease risk factors, prevent kidney stones, aid iron absorption, and promote healthy skin.
Vegetable & Beef Shish Kabobs
As mentioned in the Mongolian Beef mention, red meat is our friend! Unless you’re a vegetarian/vegan lmao. There are so many benefits to a simple meal with ingredients that fuel and fill you. And, especially with this recipe, that is elevated to the max. Shish Kabobs are one of my favorite meals to eat in the summer because they’re so delicious and so hearty. Plus, they’re super DIY! You can add any veggies/meats on there that you want or are craving. We’ve made them with chicken before and it was just as delish.
Our favorite combo? Plenty of onions (debatably the best part), beef filets, zucchini, and bell peppers. Bell peppers are great for Vitamin C intake, zucchini has Vitamin B6 and supports eye health, and yellow onions have practically too many benefits to list. Most notably, they’re anti-inflammatory, protect against cancer, reduces the risk for Alzheimers, and aids the digestive system.
Honorable Mention: Stanley Tucci’s Tomatoes
I KNOW I know…beating you to it by saying I’m 100% aware that I’m the CEO & Founder of the Stanley Tucci’s Tomatoes fan club. BUT there’s a reason for it, and if you’ve liked any of our recipes/content/thoughts in the past – take my word for this one. Tomatoes have a million and a half health benefits, and I personally love to eat these as a little snack. They can be a super easy way for you to get your nutrients & vitamins in while you’re working, cleaning, or just hanging out! Tomatoes provide important nutrients like Vitamin C and potassium. They’re also rich in antioxidants and are linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers!
Now go and feel better through food – because that’s usually ALWAYS the answer.
xoxo,
Kim & Tess
