15 Hydrating Foods Plus 20 Recipes

One of the most vital parts of overall health is hydration, and during the summer, drinking enough water can be more difficult thanks to the rising heat. Your body is made up of about 60% water and you need to constantly stay hydrated, replenishing lost fluids. 

Water plays a role in nearly every system in your body, including your heart, brain, blood, muscles, and other vital organs for life. Studies show that most Americans don’t drink enough water daily, so it’s crucial to find more ways to make drinking water more of a habit (see tips here!) and stay hydrated.

One simple way of doing so is consuming more foods with a high water content! Here are 15 especially hydrating foods that you may want to keep on hand during these hotter months:

1. Apples

2. Cabbage

3. Cantaloupe

4. Celery

5. Cucumber

6. Grapefruit

7. Lettuce

8. Oranges

9. Peaches

10. Radishes

11. Spinach

12. Strawberries

13. Squash

14. Tomatoes

15. Watermelon

Most of these foods are delicious all by themselves, but you can also take them and get creative with different meals!

Here are 20 recipes that use the previously listed hydrating foods you can make this week.

1. Air Fryer Apple Sausage and Veggies

This recipe combines apples, zucchini, and bell peppers, which I didn’t list above but also have a high water content! It’s quick, easy, and delicious. In just 15-20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, fresh, and colorful meal ready to eat!

2. Easy Crock-Pot Applesauce

This honestly couldn’t be simpler! Break out your crockpot and fill it with apples to make homemade applesauce, perfect for breakfast on the go or a quick snack.

3. Zesty Purple Cabbage Slaw

Bright and gorgeous, this is one of my favorite, crave-worthy side dishes. It’s a zesty, tangy bowl of goodness that makes for a beautiful and distinctive dish that will be sure to get compliments and conversations going at your next party!

4. Cantaloupe Summer Salsa

This salsa is so refreshing and hydrating, perfect for outdoor BBQs, picnics, patio dinner parties, and meals with friends and family! Enjoy it on its own, as a dip, or served over your grilled chicken or fish.

5. Shaved Fennel + Celery Salad

This is a super easy dish with a satisfying complex flavor and crunch! And don’t worry if you don’t have much time before dinner or your event because this salad works wonderfully as a meal prep. Make a few hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate until ready to use!

6. Tangy Beetroot + Cucumber Herby Salad

A unique combination of ingredients yields a delicious, fresh, interesting salad for your next party or get-together! If you have your garden, be sure to pluck any ripe fruits and veggies or visit your local farmers market because there’s nothing quite like the flavor of locally grown, vine-ripened produce!

7. Cucumber Tomato Herbed Salad

Here’s another double threat with cucumbers and tomatoes! ​​This salad is quite versatile, so if there’s something you don’t like or don’t have on hand, leave it out and then add something else.

8. Simple Grapefruit Vinaigrette Salad Dressing

Gluten-free, refined sugar-free, simple, light, and fresh – the perfect salad dressing! The addition of herbs elevates the fresh flavor. You can use any fresh herbs you personally love to create your summertime masterpiece.

9. Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps

We LOVE lettuce wraps here at Clean Food Crush, and this is one of my favorites — protein-packed, low-carb, and antioxidant-rich, thanks to the radicchio! The flavor combination is incredible with creamy peanut butter, tangy fresh lime, salty aminos, umami sautéed mushrooms, a bit of heat from the hot sauce, and a touch of sweetness from the honey.

10. Cantaloupe Orange Ginger Turmeric Juice

There are endless benefits to this juice! It’s a staple in my house during the winter months while the cold and flu are going around, but it’s just as tasty and healthy when it’s hotter outside. It’s incredibly hydrating, full of nutrients, a strong antioxidant, infection-fighting abilities, and much more!

11. Honey Roasted Peaches

Peaches are a great fruit to snack on, especially when you’re craving something sweet, and the additional honey, cinnamon, and maybe whipped coconut cream make this a delicious dessert. For an added health bonus, this fruit contains good-for-you antioxidants, including vitamin C, polyphenols, and carotenoids!

12. Crispy Air Fried Radishes

Radishes are a cruciferous vegetable that contain antioxidants, fiber, magnesium, potassium, and vitamin C. These air-fried radishes are perfectly seasoned and crispy on the outside, creating a very satisfying side dish when craving something crunchy and salty. One taste, and you’ll be hooked! 

13. Sautéed Fresh Lemony Spinach

Spinach has many health benefits: it can lower blood sugar, help prevent cancer, aid in bone and eye health, prevent heart attacks, and has anti-inflammatory properties. This is definitely a food you should keep on hand all year round!

14. Shrimp Salad with Fresh Strawberries

Talk about a perfect summertime lunch! It couldn’t be easier to throw together, making it great as a quick meal just for you or for something more to feed the whole family. I really recommend using the absolute freshest, highest quality ingredients you can get your hands on… it makes all the difference.

15. Strawberry Baked Pancakes

Fluffy, sweet baked strawberry pancakes for a simple recipe that’ll feed the whole family in the morning while putting a smile on their faces! While it’s a basic, easy recipe, it has plenty of nutrients that will provide our bodies with sustainable energy.

16. White Lasagna Zucchini Boats

Zucchini boats are one of my family’s favorite dinnertime meals throughout the summertime. It’s a dish that’s both healthy and indulgent, perfect for a summer evening when you’re craving something hearty that won’t weigh you down! Plus, zucchini is full of important nutrients like potassium, B vitamins, dietary fiber, and antioxidants.

17. Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

I got inspired by the beautiful traditional Chow Mein flavors, textures, and ingredients and created this lower-carb version that uses spaghetti squash noodles. Combining savory and umami flavors from ingredients like coconut aminos, and sesame oil creates a rich and satisfying taste experience.

18. Sliced Garden Tomato Salad

Honestly, there’s no food that feels so perfect for these sunny days quite like a juicy garden tomato. They also come with an impressive nutritional scoreboard that includes vitamin C, potassium, folate, and vitamin K.

19. Frozen Watermelon Pops

When the craving for a summertime popsicle hits, try these frozen watermelon pops! This is the simplest recipe on this list with only 1 ingredient, and will still impress.

Have your kids help you prepare them, then enjoy them as a refreshing afternoon treat! Feel free to give one to your puppy because it’s just as nutritious for them. (Just don’t let them eat the rind, and be aware that this might not be the snack for dogs with sugar sensitivities or diabetes—always talk to your vet with any questions or concerns!)

​

20. Marinated Watermelon Faux Poke Bowls

This is a fun, playful spin on traditional poke bowls to enjoy this summer while watermelon is plentiful and at its peak ripeness. Thank goodness it’s peak watermelon season during these hot summer months!

To ensure that you don’t get dehydrated this summer, add extra veggies and fruits to your diet with recipes like these 20! Also, soups, broths, and drinks (like these refreshing summer drinks) can also contribute to your water intake. 

Check out this post for more unexpected hydration benefits and how much water you need, and this post for 9 easy ways to make drinking water more of a habit!

Let me know your favorite part of summer in the comments below! 

The post 15 Hydrating Foods Plus 20 Recipes first appeared on Clean Food Crush.

The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Steak to Perfection

Indulge in the Rich Flavor of Steakhouse-Quality Ribeye Steaks from the Comfort of Your Own Home!

My family and I are obsessed with this incredibly easy skillet ribeye steak recipe that yields mouth-watering results every time! With just a few simple steps, you’ll be savoring tender, juicy steaks that rival even the finest steakhouse
cuisine.

Say goodbye to overpaying for a luxurious meal out and hello to a culinary experience that will leave you feeling like a chef extraordinaire!

Get ready to impress your loved ones and elevate your dinner game with this foolproof skillet ribeye steak recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

One SUPER IMPORTANT Tip: Grab a good meat thermometer.

Steak can be super intimidating – I get it! We spend our hard-earned money on a beautiful cut, the last thing we want to do is overcook it or not thoroughly enjoy it.

Intimidating for sure!

I’ve heard this fear voiced from our community A LOT over the years.

Cooking THE BEST DARN steak at home can be REALLY EASY as long as we have a basic guide to follow.

Here are the reasons why it is important to buy steak with lots of marbling:
– Tenderness: Marbling makes the beef tender. When the fat melts during cooking, it keeps the meat moist, so natural juices don’t evaporate in the pan.
– Juiciness: Marbling keeps the meat moist, so natural juices don’t evaporate in the pan.
– Flavor: Marbling adds flavor and juiciness as the fat melts into the steak.
– Texture: Marbling makes it easier to chew beef, so the person eating the beef perceives the beef to be more tender.
– Health: The type of fat that is considered marbling is unsaturated fat, which is an important part of a healthy diet.

Marbled meat also contains oleic acid, which is also found in things like olive oil.

The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Steak to Perfection

Are you a steak lover looking to achieve the perfect doneness? Look no further!

Cooking times for skillet ribeye steaks can vary depending on thickness and the quantity of steaks you’re cooking, but internal temperature is the key to getting it just right.

Use this handy guide to ensure your steak is cooked to your liking:

Internal Temperature and Doneness Chart for Ribeye Steak
– Rare: 120-130 degrees f (sear for 2-3 minutes per side)
– Medium Rare: 130-140 degrees f (sear for 3-4 minutes per side)
– Medium: 140-150 degrees f (sear for 4-5 minutes per side)
– Medium Well: 150-160 degrees f (sear for 5 plus minutes per side)

Remember, internal temperature is the most reliable indicator of doneness, so make sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to perfection. Happy cooking!

If you eat beef, you might want to consider making sure it comes from grass-fed cows!

Grass-fed beef offers up to 5x the amount of omega-3 fatty acids as conventionally raised beef.

It’s also higher in conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a type of fat that appears to be linked with a lower incidence of some chronic diseases.

Plus, it’s higher in vitamins A, E, and antioxidants compared to beef from cows that were fed grain.
You can buy grass-fed beef in most supermarkets … but a nearby farmer’s market/local butcher can help you to find a great local source.

Because grass-fed is a little leaner than grain-fed beef, cook it at a lower temperature for a shorter time to avoid damaging the omega-3s.

REFERENCES:

WebMD 
HealthLine
HealthLine

How To make your own Ghee:

1 serving

Ingredients:

• 1 (12-oz) ribeye steak (about 1-1/4 inches thick)
• 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt, or to taste
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• 1 Tbsp tallow, avocado oil, ghee, olive oil, or a combination of these fats
• 1 fresh garlic clove, peeled and crushed

Instructions:

Pat your steak dry with paper towels and allow it to sit and reach room temp, on the counter, for about 20 minutes.
Season both sides with sea salt and pepper.

Heat a skillet or heavy-bottom pan over medium-high heat until it’s really hot.

Drizzle your fat/oil of choice in the pan and carefully add the steak.

Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until a golden-brown crust is developed. Flip the steak and rub the developed crust with your garlic.

Cook for another 2-3 minutes for rare. For medium-rare cook it a bit longer, around 4-6 minutes.

Full, precise temperature guide to cooking the perfect steak with full internal temps listed (which is the best indicator of doneness) is written for you above in the description.

Transfer your steak to a cutting board, rub the other side of your steak with the garlic clove, then place the crushed garlic on top and cover with a large lid.

Allow your steak to sit for about 5 minutes, to seal in all the juices. Remove the lid and slice against the grain.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Rachel

The post [VIDEO] The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Steak to Perfection first appeared on Clean Food Crush.

Breakfast Berry Quinoa Bowls

While we usually think of quinoa at other meals as a savory side dish – I think this complex carbohydrate is just the thing we require to give us that nice steady energy to start our day!

We’re infusing our quinoa with bright and sweet flavors during the cooking that creates a perfect breakfast or snack idea.

Quinoa is gluten-free, high in protein and one of the few plant foods that contains all nine essential amino acids.

It is also high in fiber, magnesium, B vitamins, iron, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin E and various beneficial antioxidants.

Yeah…ditch the breakfast cereal and try our quinoa breakfast cups one morning you’re feeling like stepping outside the norm. I think you’ll be happily surprised!

Rachel’s notes:

You may use *any* seasonal fruit or berry in place of this berry combination, so have some fun with that!

I use unsweetened, grass fed Greek yogurt (whatever is on sale) but coconut yogurt, or a non dairy yogurt will work as well.

Try cottage cheese in place of the yogurt for another protein-packed breakfast or snack idea!

Sweetness Factor is a very personal taste preference, so you may want to use more or less raw honey or pure maple syrup, depending on YOUR family’s specific taste preferences.

Use ANY unsweetened/plain milk of your choice. My personal favorite for this recipe is unsweetened coconut milk or cashew milk. Any unsweetened nut milk, coconut milk, high-quality grass-fed cow’s milk, or heavy cream all work really well here. Use what you personally like and have on hand.

What about Quinoa?

If you haven’t tried quinoa yet, now is the time! And if you HAVE tried it and didn’t love it, try it again …
… and this time be sure to rinse the quinoa granules first using a fine mesh strainer – since that can help with the bitter/earthy flavor some varieties can have!

Quinoa has earned superfood status because of its impressive nutritional profile.

It’s a good source of several important minerals, and it appears to help lower blood sugar levels AND aid in weight loss because it’s packed with protein and fiber.

Even though it’s considered a grain, it’s not really a grain (it’s a seed) – and that means it can be enjoyed by people who are sensitive to gluten.

Serve it like this for breakfast, as a side dish, or in salads!

REFERENCES:
MedicalNewsToday
HealthLine

Looking to include Quinoa at Breakfast Time more often?

We’ve got you:

Breakfast Quinoa Cups!

Breakfast Quinoa Taco Bowls

Loaded Quinoa Poached Egg Breakfast Bowls!

Quinoa + Veggie Egg Frittata Muffins!

4 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed and drained
• 1 2/3 cups milk of choice (I use coconut milk)
• 2 Tbsps raw honey or pure maple syrup
• 1 Tbsp fresh lemon zest
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Toppings for the bowls:

• plain Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt
• fresh berries of choice
• nut butter or seed butter of choice

Instructions:

Place your rinsed quinoa in a small saucepan then add the milk, honey, lemon zest, and vanilla.

Bring to a boil while stirring to combine ingredients, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pan. Cook for 12-15 minutes.

Once the cooking time is up, remove from heat and allow your quinoa to absorb all the liquid, for about 5 minutes covered in the pan.

Divide your cooked quinoa equally among your serving bowls and top as desired with yogurt, strawberries, and a drizzle of nut butter.
Enjoy!
Rachel

The post [VIDEO] Breakfast Berry Quinoa Bowls first appeared on Clean Food Crush.

Spice-up-Your-Life Carrot Salad

This FRESH grated carrot salad is a vibrant, tangy, and refreshing side dish or snack that has a welcome little kick thanks to the spices!

The combination of crunchy, sweet, and slightly spicy makes for an irresistible and interesting salad to add to your collection of favorites!

Budget-friendly thanks to the very BASIC ingredients, completely nutrient-packed, yet still ABSOLUTELY mind-blowing delicious!

Our Spiced Carrot Salad is surprisingly hearty and sturdy…PERFECT to make for meal prep for your busy week ahead, as it holds up very well in the fridge.

If you’re looking for something FRESH and tasty to bring to a potluck or BBQ this summer without spending a ton of cash, and still impressing your crowd, then you’re gonna love this one!

Spiced Carrot Salad is the perfect dish to bring or serve at parties since it actually tastes even BETTER when made a few hours ahead! Double, or triple the recipe because it will go fast.

 Rachel’s Tips:

Since there are only a few simple ingredients used here, I really recommend using the absolute freshest, highest quality ingredients you can get your hands on…it makes all the difference.

I REALLY prefer golden raisins over the typical raisins we all grew up with.

Golden raisins are much plumper, and juicy, with a more delicious, fruitier, lighter flavor.

Have you tried them yet?

If you search the health food stores or Amazon, you can often find raisins sweetened with pure apple juice rather than cane sugar.

Make SURE that you actually love the taste of the olive oil that you use for your salads such as this, because your salad will come out tasting very much like the oil you use. They each have their own unique flavor.

The fresh lemon zest really elevates your salad game! Don’t skip it!

 ALWAYS use freshly-squeezed lemon juice from an actual fresh lemon. Bottled lemon juice from the store will give your salad a strange metallic or overly acidic taste. We want this to taste super bright and fresh.

Some Carrot facts if you care:

These party platter favorites are one of the most nutritious veggies out there as they are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

They may help fight cancer, lower your blood pressure, keep your immune system strong, help your bones stay healthy, AND help protect your vision.

Fun Fact: If you eat more than 10 medium-sized carrots a day for a few weeks, you’ll build up too much beta-carotene in your body and develop a condition called carotenemia … and your skin will start to turn orange!

Carrots are great in soups, salads, stews, stir-fries, and casseroles. You can eat them raw, steamed, roasted, baked, and even juiced.

How often do you eat carrots? (Hopefully you’re not eating 10 of them every day!)

REFERENCES:

Medical News Today 

WebMD 

Cleveland Clinic 

Garbanzo beans, or chickpeas, are full of protein, fiber, and loaded with vitamins and minerals.

Canned, jarred, or pouches of chickpeas or garbanzo beans are readily available at local grocers and online retailers such as Amazon.

I love to keep them in my pantry because I don’t always plan ahead to soak my own beans, so the canned ready-to-eat option shaves a lot of time off prep!

That being said, cooking your own dried chickpeas or beans at home is more cost-effective, and you’ll get to choose and control what is added, such as salt or herbs.

Using dried chickpeas or beans (not canned):

The package of dried beans/chickpeas will have directions for you to soak and cook them at home.

You’ll just need to plan ahead the day before you’re going to follow my hummus recipe below.

When I’m using dried chickpeas, I usually soak them overnight with PLENTY of water because they will expand.

After an overnight soak, I’ll rinse them off, then add fresh water to the pot. Simply cook them over a low simmer for around 2 hours.

Your chickpeas can be cooked all by themselves or with garlic cloves, onion pieces, carrots, celery, or bay leaves, sea salt, or even broth added to the pot for flavor.

Don’t overcook them, as we still want a firm texture much like canned chickpeas.

Allow to cool and dry completely, then follow the directions for the recipe below.

Ohh…Be SURE to try out these salad recipes, too:

CFC’s FAVORITE Crunchy Kale Salad

Thai Inspired Salad

Layered Sweet Potato Salad

Grilled Asparagus Salad

Broccoli + Fresh Corn + Bacon Salad

4 servings

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup golden raisins
• 1 x 15 oz jar chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 fresh lemon, zest and juice
• 1 lb rainbow carrots
• 2 Tbsps extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 fresh garlic clove, pressed
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp sea salt, or to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

Place the raisins, lemon zest, lemon juice and chickpeas in a large bowl and stir to combine.

Using a food processor or hand grater, shred your carrots then place them in the bowl.

Add in all of your remaining ingredients: olive oil, garlic, seasonings, and parsley.

Taste test, then add more of anything you like to fit your taste preference.

Stir well to combine and serve immediately, or cover and allow to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.

Will stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Enjoy!

Rachel

The post Spice-up-Your-Life Carrot Salad first appeared on Clean Food Crush.

Foods that Fight Inflammation Plus 20 Recipes

There are two kinds of inflammation: acute and chronic. The former is often important, as it’s one of the body’s defense mechanisms. 

Acute inflammation is the process of the immune system fighting harmful stimuli and beginning the healing process.

Think about when you’ve had a cut, bruise, or infection. While your body heals, you’ll likely experience at least some of the four signs of inflammation: redness, swelling, pain, and heat. 

Chronic, or systemic, inflammation, on the other hand, is a serious health concern that has been linked to several diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, cancer, depression, and Alzheimer’s.

Like every other aspect of health, diet has a major effect on chronic inflammation.

Foods can either cause, worsen, or fight it.

So, if you’re struggling with inflammation, it’s important to know what foods to avoid and which to eat more.

Foods to Avoid:

• Refined Carbohydrates (White Bread, Pastries, Pasta)

• Fried Foods (French Fries, Fried Chicken)

• Sugar & High-Fructose Corn Syrup (Candy, Cookies)

• Soda & Other Sugar-Sweetened Beverages

• Red Meat (Burgers, Steaks)

• Processed Meat (Hot Dogs, Sausage)

• Margarine, Shortening, & Lard

• Alcohol

Alternatively, some foods and drinks help reduce inflammation—particularly fruits and veggies, which are high in natural antioxidants, polyphenols, and other anti-inflammatory compounds.

Foods to Enjoy:

• Bone Broth

• Ginger & Turmeric

• Wild Caught Fatty Seafood (Salmon, Tuna, Sardines)

• Green Leafy Vegetables (Spinach, Kale, Collards)

• Avocados

• Cucumbers

• Tomatoes

• Nuts (Almonds, Walnuts)

• Berries (Strawberries, Blueberries, Raspberries, Blackberries)

• Citrus Fruits such as Oranges

• Dark Chocolate and Cocoa

• Olive Oil

• Veggie Soup

• Green Tea

• Coffee *according to some studies*

There are a ton of ways to enjoy these various anti-inflammatory foods!

Here are just 20 of our best recipes to help fight inflammation:

1. Homemade Bone Broth

Bone broth is packed full of collagen, proline, glycine, glutamine, and many minerals, which provide several health benefits, including boosting the immune system, maintaining gut health, and reducing inflammation. So, make yourself some broth and enjoy the never-ending benefits! 

2. Instant Pot Veggie Broth

Here’s another broth option for you, this one with veggies rather than bones! Still just as tasty with its own list of health benefits. In addition to gut health and inflammation reduction, this veggie broth is rich in vitamins and minerals, great for a detox, and helps with weight loss.  

3. Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower

Turmeric gets its health benefits from its main active ingredient, curcumin, which is LOADED with antioxidants and is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.

It adds a rich flavor to several recipes and is the key to these tasty roasted cauliflower bites!

4. Turmeric Lemon Ginger Protein Balls

In addition to its anti-nausea properties and ability to kill off the bad guys in our gut that can harm us, ginger is a powerful inflammation fighter and immune booster.

With these delicious protein balls, you can get more of this root and turmeric in your diet! They have a surprisingly sweet + savory + slightly peppery flavor that’s super tasty!

5. Turmeric Ginger Chicken Rice Skillet Recipe

This one-pan chicken dish is delicious and super quick, making it great for a quick dinner or meal prep idea!

Since you’re only using one pan, the clean-up is simple as well. Really, this skillet recipe couldn’t be more of a win!

6. Wild Tuna Cucumber Boats

Wild-caught seafood is rich in minerals, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce inflammation and help prevent digestive issues. If you have a party coming up or need an appetizer, then these tuna boats are great! They’re a perfect finger food, refreshing, full of vitamins, and super tasty.

7. Pan Roasted Salmon and Carrots

Another one-pan recipe for a quick dinner and easy cleanup! It takes a total of 20 minutes to have dinner ready for the whole family. As a bonus, both the salmon and the carrots here are good for inflammation and overall health. 

8. Tropical Salmon Meal Prep Bowls

Here’s a triple-win for you! Along with salmon, avocados have anti-inflammatory properties, and mangoes are high in antioxidants and aid in strengthening the immune system. Add this recipe to your list, especially as the weather warms up; it’s a summer favorite in my house!

9. Crunchy Kale Salad

Keeping it SUPER SIMPLE with this easy-to-make fresh salad + tangy dressing that’s a total crowd-pleaser. The almonds and the kale will help lower inflammation and provide several other benefits, such as helping to improve bone, skin, and hair health!

10. Spinach, Feta, and Rice Casserole

Dark, leafy green veggies are a vital part of a healthy diet, and this savory, hearty, creamy, nourishing, and comforting casserole is a fantastic way to eat more.

It’s bursting with fresh flavors thanks to the garlic and all the fresh herbs! Double the recipe and save any leftovers for easy lunches.

11. Greek Yogurt Cucumber Salad

This cucumber salad is super simple, incredibly hydrating, and a perfect hot-weather dish. Cucumbers contain vitamin C and other antioxidants and have natural anti-inflammatory benefits. 

12. Cucumber Avocado Salad

Here’s another simple, tangy, creamy, crisp, fresh, and hydrating salad to fill out your Summer weekly menus! Make it for a quick lunch, or double the recipe and make a big ole’ bowl for your backyard BBQs!

13. Marinated Tomatoes

Where are my tomato fans at? This one is for you! These are so flavorful and refreshing and never last long in my house.

14. Baked Parmesan Tomatoes

Impress your guests and friends at the next party you attend with these baked parmesan tomatoes. They’re rich and cheesy while still being hydrating and full of vitamins!

15. Trail Mix Granola Bars

Having healthy snacks on hand is essential; these are the perfect grab-and-go snack or breakfast. They’re crunchy, nutty, chewy, slightly sweet, and packed with energy through complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fiber!

16. Chocolate Almond No-Bake Truffles

These truffles taste like a bite of dessert but are loaded with nutrients to keep you fueled and energetic, making them another great snack or treat option. No-bake and less than 20 minutes of hands-on time! This is a fun one to make with the kids.

17. Berry Breakfast Tart

I LOVE this gorgeous berry breakfast tart; its light and refreshing taste is great. Feel free to be creative and make this your own by choosing which berries and fruits you add on top.

All berries are potent in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, so you can’t go wrong here!

18. Flourless Double Dark Chocolate Brownies

I’m sure you don’t need more reasons to enjoy some chocolate, but here’s one anyway! 70% cocoa dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and has some major anti-inflammatory effects. So, treat yourself to a pan of these decadent brownies!

19. Orange Creamsicle Homemade Ice Cream

This is a homemade version of one of my favorite creamy summer treats. It’s so fresh and bright tasting, and it even smells delightful! Feel free to alter the recipe and sweetness slightly to fit your tastebuds!

20. Nourishing Homemade Veggie Soup

Ending on a high note with this nourishing, budget-friendly, comforting soup! Make a giant pot because soup tastes even better the next day and makes for an effortless meal later that week!

Though inflammation is essential, it can be painful, frustrating, and dangerous, so consuming anti-inflammatory foods is always a good idea. Plus, all of these have several other health benefits, so your body will thank you for adding them to your diet!

Remember that if you have ANY health concerns, always consult your doctor. 

Let me know what anti-inflammatory food is your favorite and how you like to prepare it in the comments below! 

The post Foods that Fight Inflammation Plus 20 Recipes first appeared on Clean Food Crush.

Asparagus Health Benefits + 12 Recipes

Asparagus is in season now! It’s BEST from late March to June, so now is a great time to get creative with this veggie.

Also, here’s a fun trivia fact: these little green (or white and purple) stalks are actually part of the lily family. They’re also super tasty and incredibly nutrient-dense.

Asparagus are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, disease-fighting antioxidants, and fiber, making them full of health benefits. 

Here are only 5 health benefits of asparagus:

Blood Clotting & Bone Health

Vitamin K helps blood clot properly and is crucial for bone health! Some studies show this vitamin helps protect against bone fractures, produces bone-related proteins, and regulates bone resorption.

So, consuming foods high in vitamin K is essential for avoiding uncontrolled bleeding after an injury. (If you have any worries, like if you’re taking blood thinning medications like warfarin, be sure to talk to your doctor about which foods are safe for you).

Promote Digestion & Gut Health

Asparagus also contains inulin, which becomes a food source for good and healthy gut bacteria. As a soluble fiber, inulin helps promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.

Additionally, asparagus is full of fiber, which fuels gut bacteria, helps your body digest food, and absorbs important nutrients. If you want to read more about how gut health is vital for overall health, check out this post.

Blood Pressure Control

Fiber has many other benefits, including the regulation of cholesterol, which can cause heart disease and other problems. Plus, the potassium in asparagus can help lower cholesterol and regulate your heartbeat. 

Rich in Antioxidants

Antioxidants like vitamin A and vitamin E assist the body in fighting off “free radicals,” or oxygen particles that cells produce as waste. Free radicles can damage cells and raise the risk of diseases, so eating antioxidant and anti-inflammatory foods like asparagus helps reduce the risk of chronic health problems.

Support Prenatal Health

Finally, asparagus is great for prenatal health! A single serving provides a third of your daily allowance of folic acid (vitamin B9), which is an important nutrient that helps reduce the risk of neural tube defects during pregnancy. Folic acid helps prevent anemia, tingling hands and feet, and even birth defects!

Keep in mind that the FDA regulates folic acid supplements, and their effects vary from person to person, so always talk to your doctor before taking it or any other supplement! Always talk to your healthcare provider about any worries during pregnancy.

As you can see, asparagus is a TOTAL POWERHOUSE for nutrition!

Not only that, it’s very versatile and beautiful to add to all of your Spring & Summer meals!

Here are 12 delicious recipes to choose from:

1. Quick Pan-Steam Method for Asparagus

This is one of the simplest ways I know to cook asparagus! It really removes the intimidation and any barriers like time and energy keeping you from eating healthy.

Definitely try this because if you like it, then it’ll be a staple in your house!

2. Asparagus + Quinoa with Bacon & Fresh Spinach Salad

Bright, beautiful, fresh, green, all the things you want for a tasty spring salad! There’s a nutty, healthier appeal thanks to the quinoa, and the crumbled bacon only adds to the appeal!

Topped with tangy, super-delicious homemade dressing, this salad is sure to become a favorite.

3. Asparagus & Sun-dried Tomato Stuffed Chicken Skillet

This skillet is one of my all-time favorites in the Springtime. It’s also super popular among the children. It has all the nutrients of asparagus plus the protein and flavor of the stuffed chicken! 

4. Roasted Tomato + Asparagus Egg Breakfast Bake

Despite how easy this breakfast bake is, it’s still super impressive! If you’re entertaining in the future and need to feed a crowd, then this will be a lifesaver for the crowded mornings. Be sure to double the recipe if needed!

5. Baked Sea Bass + Asparagus

Buttery, delicious, flaky, melt-in-your-mouth, lemony, white fish! Each fish has its own nutritional makeup… but they’re all a nutrient-dense source of protein and micronutrients that contain very few calories.

6. 15-Minute Chicken + Asparagus Stir Fry

Here’s a super quick recipe for those nights you don’t have the time or energy for anything more than an easy 15-minute, highly nutritious (and tasty) meal. It’s also excellent for Meal Prep and refrigerates well for 3-4 days.

7. Grilled Asparagus Salad

I absolutely adore chopped veggie salads. That’s pretty obvious because we sure have a lot of them here on the CFC website.

Our Grilled Asparagus Salad takes it all up a notch! If you’re looking for a dish to bring to that BBQ that’ll impress, this is it.

8. Asparagus + Tomato Frittata

When spring rolls around, this frittata starts showing up on our household menu more and more often! It’s such a great weekend breakfast, full of taste, nutrients, and protein. 

9. Asparagus + Egg Toast

As you can see, I’m a big fan of the asparagus and egg combo. So, of course, I decided to get creative with this breakfast recipe. Thankfully, it turned out perfectly! 

10. Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

I know many people aren’t sold on enjoying bacon in moderation, but I enjoy a good nitrate-free, high-quality bacon a few times each month as a special treat.

This is such a quick and easy recipe you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried it before! Word of caution to those who try this recipe: It’s highly addictive! 

11. Mustard Garlic Chicken + Chickpeas & Fresh Asparagus

If you have a busy spring ahead of you, then be sure to save this recipe. It’s great for meal prepping, so you can prepare it in advance and save yourself time and energy in the future! Then you’ll have a colorful and delicious quick dinner.

12. Asparagus Summer Salad

I wanted to end with another beautiful chopped salad that’s fantastic for spring AND summer. It’s filled with nutrients, not only from the asparagus but also the arugula, squash, cucumber, and more! Feel free to get creative and make this salad your own—tailored to your tastes! 

So, what do you think? Do you like asparagus? What’s your favorite way to enjoy this veggie?

Let me know in the comments below! 

The post Asparagus Health Benefits + 12 Recipes first appeared on Clean Food Crush.

How to Cook Quinoa + BONUS Week ONE Challenge Approved Quinoa Salad

Have you tried cooking Quinoa in the past and found that you didn’t really like it?

You’re not alone! This is something I hear often. I’ve put some tips and tricks together to change this!

Quinoa is so incredibly great for us, and it’s a BIG part of our 30-Day Challenge program!

Quinoa is week ONE Approved and something I really encourage you to incorporate for life.

I often have a big container of cooked quinoa stashed in my fridge. It’s easy to prepare once you know how, adds protein and fiber to a tasty salad, and also makes a great addition to a soup or casserole!

It really is a versatile food that everyone would benefit from having on hand!

Rachel’s Tips to ADD MORE FLAVOR to your Quinoa:

Aside from rinsing beforehand, there are some additional ideas you can incorporate to increase the flavor of your quinoa:
Add a clove or two of garlic to the cooking process, or minced garlic
Use broth instead of water to cook your quinoa in
Add a bay leaf while cooking
Add fresh lemon juice and/or zest once finished cooking
Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, basil, or mint at the tail end of cooking
Add chopped fresh arugula or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking time
Add a teaspoon of olive oil that you love

You can make a quick Quinoa Salad after your quinoa is cooked and cooled.

I often do this during week ONE of our 30-Day Challenge program because all of these ingredients are Challenge Approved and this is so tasty!

Week ONE APPROVED Quinoa Salad:

• 4 cups cooked and cooled Quinoa

• 2 cups small diced fresh tomatoes with most of their juices

• 2 cups small diced crisp cucumbers

• 1 small red onion, diced small

• 1 bunch fresh parsley or other fresh herbs, minced

• 1 large fresh lemon, juice and zest

• 1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil

• sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Gently toss ingredients together, taste test and adjust to your preferences.

This recipe is very adjustable and can be made to your own desired outcome.

Stays good in the fridge for 5 days, so this is excellent for meal prep.

It wasn’t that long ago that quinoa was an exotic grain that most of us hadn’t heard of!

Now it’s a healthy “superfood” staple that a lot of people keep in their kitchens.

Quinoa contains several important minerals – including magnesium, iron, and zinc – and it may help lower blood sugar levels.

It’s also a good source of fiber and antioxidants.

Even though it’s considered a grain, it’s not really a grain (it’s a seed) – and that means it doesn’t seem to bother most people who are sensitive to gluten.

I’ve got a quinoa tip for you!

If you’ve tried quinoa in the past and thought it tasted bitter, it was probably because it was still coated with saponins, a chemical produced by the plant to protect itself when it’s growing.

Make sure you rinse the quinoa before you cook it! I know this can be a little tricky because the seeds are so small … but I have a trick for you:

THE TRICK: Place the tiny seeds in a coffee filter, and then put the filter in a sieve or colander before you rinse.
Do you have quinoa in your pantry?

REFERENCE:

MedicalNewsToday

HealthLine

Britannica

ANY broth works GREAT to cook your quinoa! Use vegetable broth, chicken, or beef bone broth to increase the protein and nutrients.

Homemade Instant Pot Vegetable Broth

Homemade Chicken Bone Broth Recipe

Homemade Roasted Beef Bone Broth

To store your cooked quinoa:
Cooked quinoa should be refrigerated in an airtight container to keep out moisture and contamination.

It can last for five days in the refrigerator and six months in the freezer.
Here are some of our FAVORITE Quinoa Recipes for you to try:

Black Bean Quinoa Chopped Salad for Light and Fresh Clean Eats!

Quinoa + Olive Herbed Salad

Turkey Quinoa Taco Bake

Quinoa Chopped Salad

Nectarine Quinoa Tabbouleh

Mango Quinoa Chopped Salad

Spicy Chipotle Quinoa

Servings 4

Ingredients:

• 1 part uncooked quinoa (example: 1 cup dry quinoa)

• 2 parts water or broth (example: 2 cups water/broth)

• sea salt, to taste (around ¼ teaspoon salt per cup of dry quinoa)

Instructions:

Place your dry/uncooked quinoa into a fine mesh strainer and rinse really well under running water for about 30 seconds or so.

Transfer your rinsed quinoa to a pot and add the water/broth, and sea salt.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Simmer uncovered until your quinoa has absorbed all of the liquid, about 15 minutes.

Turn the heat off, cover the saucepan, remove from the heat, and allow your quinoa to steam/rest in the covered pot for 10 minutes.
Remove the lid and fluff your quinoa with a fork.

Add any additional items from my suggestions above to make your quinoa suited to your personal taste.
Enjoy!
Rachel

The post How to Cook Quinoa – BONUS Salad first appeared on Clean Food Crush.

All About Sweet Potatoes + 21 Delicious Recipes

Sweet potatoes are starchy root vegetables with a sweet taste (obviously) that are grown worldwide.

But fun fact: sweet potatoes actually aren’t potatoes at all!

They’re not yams, either, but they are a part of the morning glory family. 

Whatever they’re scientifically classified as, the fact remains that sweet potatoes are a popular food thanks to their delicious taste and versatility! They’re certainly one of my favorite ingredients to use.  

Not only are they tasty, but they offer several health benefits, such as the following:

Incredibly Nutritious

Sweet potatoes are considered a superfood because they’re packed full of fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, manganese, and fiber, all essential nutrients for your body to function properly. A single sweet potato contains almost 400% of your daily vitamin A requirements! Orange and purple varieties of sweet potatoes are also rich in antioxidants.  

Promotes a Healthy Gut

The previously mentioned fiber, specifically soluble fiber, helps support digestion and absorbs water in order to aid in easy bowel movements. (Go here to learn why fiber is vital for your health).

Additionally, the antioxidants found in sweet potatoes assist in good gut bacteria production, which contributes to overall gut health.

Improves Eye Health

Beta carotene is an antioxidant found in many vegetables, including sweet potatoes. Once ingested, your body converts it into vitamin A, which might help prevent vision loss and improve eye health.

Reduces Inflammation 

In addition to improving eye health, beta carotene helps reduce inflammation by “cleaning” the body’s cells of free radicals (that’s what causes inflammation).

Paired with vitamin C, an antioxidant in its own right, sweet potatoes can definitely aid in alleviating discomfort caused by unnecessary inflammation.

Aids in Weight Loss

So, yes, sweet potatoes are a starch with a high carbohydrate count, but that doesn’t mean they can’t help you maintain a healthy weight! In fact, complex carbs are essential and come with an array of health benefits (read more about that here).

Dietary fiber and the other possible sweet potato health benefits, such as reducing inflammation, helping control blood sugar, and supporting fat loss, are excellent for weight loss and maintaining a healthy weight.  

Strengthens Immune System and Might Help Avoid Some Health Issues

First and foremost, with any health concern, always consult your doctor first! And though all of these still need more scientific studies, we know a few things for certain, one of which is that vitamin A is critical to a strong immune system, and sweet potato contains a good amount of the vitamin.

With that being said, it is highly possible that eating sweet potatoes can help protect you against several chronic illnesses.

One study suggests the vegetable can help strengthen the brain and avoid cognitive decline. Other studies have found sweet potatoes have cancer-fighting properties. 

Also, sweet potatoes can aid in controlling blood sugar, and their mix of nutrients might promote cardiovascular health, both of which are important for helping protect against or manage symptoms of diabetes and heart disease.

Now that we know WHY sweet potatoes are great, let’s look at some fantastic recipes to use them in!

Here are just 21 of my favorite sweet potato dishes:

1. Santa Fe-Inspired Sweet Potatoes

If you’re trying to feed your family on a budget, then this is one you should try!

They’re also easy to throw together and great for families with several different taste buds. Everyone can choose their own toppings to make their dish perfect for them.

2. Crispy Crunchy Air-Fryer Sweet Potato Chips

Having a healthy snack on hand is always wise, and these chips are one of my favorites. They’re irresistible and so satisfying to munch on with the combination of sweet and salty.

For more tips on mindful snacking, check out this article and go here for snacking myths to avoid.

3. Baked Sweet Potatoes Stuffed with Tuna + Spinach Salad

Here’s another super tasty and budget-friendly meal for you!

Most of these ingredients are probably in your kitchen right now, and if not, it’s still a very flexible and forgiving recipe, so you can alter it to work for you and your family.

4. Sweet Potato Pancakes

These divine sweet potato pancakes are a spin on the traditional recipe!

They have the most satisfying fluffy texture and delightful flavors and will leave the body feeling full of energy rather than bloated and tired like simple carbs cause.

5. Beef + Sweet Potato Sliders

Honestly, this recipe couldn’t be more straightforward or more delicious! Top these sliders off with some Clean Eating Homemade Ketchup or Homemade Mayonnaise.

6. Crock Pot Sweet Potato + Quinoa Soup

Here’s a nutritious and time-saving soup for you! I genuinely don’t think you can eat too much soup, and honestly, many of us could be enjoying it even more often! It’s an incredibly convenient, healthy, and hydrating meal that’s great for meal prepping.

7. Sweet Potato Eggs Benedict

Eggs Benedict is an iconic breakfast classic that doesn’t have to be as complicated or intimidating as it seems.

This recipe makes the meal more accessible and will appeal to those who are gluten-free, skipping bread, and/or are simply sweet potato lovers!

8. Chili Sweet Potato Fries

If you have someone difficult to please in your life or who refuses to eat your “health food,” then make these, and say nothing about the fact that sweet potatoes are nutrient powerhouses!

They’ll be too busy enjoying the explosion of flavor to pay attention to the untraditional spin on a delicious meal.

9. Sweet Potato Hash

Add this to your weekly breakfast menu, trust me!

It’s DELICIOUS. The bacon and sweet potatoes complement each other perfectly. Plus, there are several reasons to eat eggs every day!

10. Pulled Chicken Sweet Potato Sliders

My crock pot is my personal savior!

There have been so many days where I have NO time to cook, so I throw all the ingredients in the slow cooker in the morning and come home to a fully prepared and tasty meal, just like this!

11. Smashed + Roasted Sweet Potatoes

These smashed + roasted sweet potatoes combine all the best things: a sweet and creamy center with lightly salty and crispy edges. You can try making these potatoes with different variations of fresh or dried herbs, and you’ll have a brand-new flavor each time!

12. Chipotle Roasted Sweet Potato Salad

Slightly spicy, creamy, and ULTRA flavorful, with a tangy spin on the ole’ potato salad!

It’s great for backyard parties because you can make it a few hours ahead, then pull it out of the fridge and serve.

13. Chickpea Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

​​Here is a creative, budget-friendly, and SUPER FLAVORFUL plant-based meal idea for your new week.

And did I mention easy? It just takes a few minutes of hands-on time, and you’ll have something absolutely delicious to enjoy!

14. Sweet Potato Sloppy Joe Bowls

I LOVE sloppy joes, and this recipe takes everything great about that childhood favorite meal and makes it something new and exciting!

These bowls have a hint of sweetness from the tomato sauce and maple syrup, a complex and tangy finish thanks to the mustard and coconut aminos, and bursts of flavor from the freshly chopped vegetables.

15. Layered Sweet Potato Salad

Not only is this sweet potato salad BEAUTIFUL, but it’s super convenient to serve guests, so you should save this recipe for any future gatherings you might have.

And feel free to get creative when you make it so it’s tailored to your taste buds!

16. Sweet Potato Pizza Snacks

You only need a few simple ingredients to make these delectable roasted sweet potato pizza snacks.

They’re great for kids to make because they are easy and fun, but also, pizza is very familiar to kids – so they’re more likely to want to try this version!

17. Lentil + Sweet Potato Soup

Here’s another great recipe for my fellow soup lovers! Also, a single serving of lentils provides about 32% of the body’s necessary daily fiber and can aid in lowering cholesterol. 

18. Roasted Chicken + Sweet Potato

Meal prepping can be overwhelming, but finding the right recipes make all the difference.

The tasty chicken morsels mixed with crispy roasted sweet potatoes and topped with tangy fresh shredded cabbage make for a perfectly balanced nutrition for your week ahead!

19. Chili Lime Sweet Potato Gratin

This gratin is most popular in the Fall and Winter, especially as a side dish for big holiday meals, but it’s fantastic year-round.

So, either save this recipe to return to later in the year, or go ahead and make it soon because I promise you will LOVE this perfectly tender and layered chili lime sweet potato gratin!

20. Hearty Beef + Sweet Potato Stew

Stew, like soup, is an excellent meal for warming you up, saving time, and packing nutrients into one bowl. PLUS, it’s delicious, so you’ll want to try this hearty stew soon!

21. Healthy Roasted Garlic Mashed Sweet Potatoes

I’m ending with this recipe because mashed potatoes are a favorite and a classic, and this sweet potato version only adds good things to the dish.

The flavors are complex and indulgent enough to serve guests the next time you’re entertaining, but you might also want to add this recipe to your regular dinner rotation.

There you have it, 21 creative, tasty, simple, and nutritious ways to enjoy sweet potatoes year-round!

It was REALLY difficult to narrow this list down to twenty, but I hope you like the ones I decided to share. If you want more, simply use the search bar on our website to scroll through our other recipes.

If you share your meals online, be sure to tag me so I can see all your wonderful sweet potato creations!

Keep CRUSHing it! 

The post All About Sweet Potatoes first appeared on Clean Food Crush.

25 Delicious Zucchini Recipes

Zucchini, a summer squash, is typically considered a vegetable, but like the tomato, it’s actually a fruit!

The zucchini is an “immature fruit” as it comes from a seed and grows on the flowering part of a zucchini plant and can blossom into beautiful (and edible) flowers. 

The summer is a great time to eat zucchini because even though it’s available year-round, the prime season for zucchini is May to September.

So, why is zucchini a go-to fruit in our house and here at CleanFoodCrush?

Well, there are SEVERAL reasons.

Nutritional Value

Zucchini has many health benefits and is loaded with vital vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, such as fiber, vitamin B6, iron, zinc, vitamin A, and potassium.

These nutrients are important for healthy digestion, preventing oxidative stress, regulating blood sugar levels, improving heart health, and strengthening eyesight. 

Weight Loss

Because zucchini has a high water and fiber content but low calories, it can aid in weight loss by reducing hunger and helping you control your appetite. 

Hydrating

Zucchini has a refreshing taste and is full of water (94%, to be exact), which can help keep you hydrated during the hotter months of the year. 

Inexpensive & Versatile

This fruit is affordable, so you can either buy a good amount or grow your own without hurting your wallet.

It’s also versatile, so you can enjoy it in several ways, like raw, grilled, roasted, or sliced into noodles for a pasta substitute.

You can get really creative with zucchini, as exemplified below!

So now that you know why you should eat more zucchini, let’s talk about how!

Here are 25 delicious recipes using this summer fruit:

Sesame Roasted Baby Zucchini

We’re starting simple with this genuinely EASY, budget-friendly, and all-out flavorful recipe!

Sesame-roasted baby zucchini is terrific as a quick side dish at dinnertime or a tasty afternoon snack.

Zucchini Noodle Beef Lasagna Soup

Lasagna is one of my favorite meals – it’s so warm, comforting, and full of nostalgia!

With this lasagna soup, you get all of the tasty flavors of the classic dish but with more nutrients and fewer carbs. PERFECT comfort food! 

Slow Cooker Zucchini Lasagna

This is more of a classic lasagna recipe, but using a slow cooker!

I use my crockpot year-round because I find it SO convenient to throw a few ingredients together in the morning when I’m full of energy, then we have a meal ready to eat whenever we’re ready for it later in the day…

no matter what the day happens to throw at me. 

Zucchini Crust Pizza

Another classic comfort food with a fun and healthy twist!

This is a lot like cauliflower crust pizza but with zucchini. It probably won’t be as crispy, but it’s still delicious!

Double Chocolate Zucchini Muffins

Chocolate delicious-ness! Yes PLEASE.

The entire family devours them whenever I make these, and the muffins are gone way too quickly.

Turkey Meatballs + Zucchini Noodles

If you or any of your family likes spaghetti and meatballs, then you must try this recipe.

This tasty-satisfying dish comes together pretty quickly, making it perfect for weeknights!

Marinated Zucchini Salad

Talk about refreshing! Marinated into perfection, this salad might seem straightforward (and it is), but that doesn’t take away from its wonderful flavor profile. 

Sesame Shrimp and Zucchini Stir Fry

One pan, quick, easy, and as simple as it gets!

Rather than ordering takeout, try this stir fry recipe.

You feel SO GOOD knowing that you invested the 20 minutes needed to get something highly nutritious (and tasty) on the table.

Blueberry Zucchini Breakfast Muffins

These make for a great and super quick breakfast.

They might not be typical blueberry muffins, but they’re just as delicious, fluffy, naturally sweetened, and full of nutritious whole foods!

Zucchini Sliders

Our combination of perfectly seasoned grass-fed ground beef and lightly charred zucchini with just a touch of melty cheese is sure to hit the spot!

Summer Zucchini Salad

This salad is PERFECT for the Summer, particularly as a side dish to take to a neighborhood or family barbecue.

Shrimp Taco Zucchini Boats

I love making zucchini boats, experimenting with recipes, and creating new meals.

This particular recipe is a fan favorite because who doesn’t love tacos?! 

Zucchini Chicken Enchilada Roll-Ups

As you can see, there are very few classic comfort foods that we can’t remake using this handy little fruit!

So, next time you want enchiladas, try this low-carb, gluten-free, and nutritional version with your Summer zucchinis.

Chocolate Pumpkin Spice Zucchini Bread

Sometimes you get a craving for Fall in the middle of Summer.

When that happens, turn to this decadent bread that mixes everything we love about zucchini with everything we love about pumpkin spice (plus chocolate)! 

Beef and Zucchini Skillet

This skillet is ultra-satisfying and will be a crowd favorite – it’s sure to impress!

Also, try it with bison too! Bison can be a nutritious alternative to beef, as it contains more omega-3 fatty acids (which is a GOOD thing!).

Breakfast Zucchini Rolls

These breakfast rolls are unique, and the recipe is seriously more effortless than it looks.

It’s high in protein and packed with flavors which is the BEST way to start your day.

Thai Chicken Soup with Zucchini Noodles

If you’re healing from an illness or excessive inflammation, try this soup, as it has many restorative ingredients, like bone broth, lemon juice, and fresh ginger. 

Roasted Ranch Zucchini Bites

Roasted Ranch Zucchini Bites are great as a side dish or a tasty afternoon snack and are SUPER simple!

Zucchini Pizza Cups

If you have kids or teens at home, invite them into the kitchen with you to make these little pizza snacks!

They’re great for children to make because they are easy and fun, and kids will likely be familiar with pizza and excited to try it!

Italian Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Another fun stuffed boat recipe for you, this time with a fun Italian twist complete with marinara sauce and mozzarella!

Sautéed Shredded Zucchini

I spent YEARS making this before I finally decided to share the straightforward recipe!

It’s garlicky, creamy, and nicely cheesy…oh, and packed with veggies. 

Clean Eating Creamy Zucchini Potato Soup

I needed to include another soup recipe in this list because I LOVE soup (here are 5 reasons why)!

This potato soup is warm and creamy, perfect for a comforting meal. 

Zucchini + Chicken Stir Fry

The whole family loves this flavorful, simple stir fry!

It’s excellent for meal prep since the leftovers taste even better the next day.

Cheesy Zucchini Corn Chips

My family can’t be the only one that loves chips.

Along with the unique cheesy zucchini chip recipe, I’ve also included a suggestion of my favorite store-bought corn chips and homemade BBQ sauce recipe to pair with this!

Spicy Jalapeño Zucchini Frittata Breakfast

This frittata is perfect for the weekend and makes a tasty, nutritious/fast dinner option! Feel free to edit the recipe and the amount of jalapeño, so it’s perfect for your tastebuds. 

I could overwhelm you with dozens more zucchini recipes, but I’ll stop here for now!

As you can see, there are SO many ways to use this squash.

Take the whole Summer to experiment until you find your favorite zucchini recipe.

Then let me know in the comments or by tagging CleanFoodCrush when you share your creations!

The post 25 Delicious Zucchini Recipes first appeared on Clean Food Crush.

Mexican-Inspired Garden Fresh Salmon Skillet

THIS QUICK Skillet Meal is EXACTLY what you’re going to want to make when all those ripe zucchini and tomatoes start to show up in our gardens and farmer’s markets here shortly!

Just 20 minutes and some SIMPLE ingredients are all you need, and you’ll have a DELICIOUS and nutritious dinner on the table – FAST!

What’s really in those seasoning packets?!

I love to mix up my own seasonings with organic spices because those little packets of taco seasoning are usually made with canola and soybean oils linked to inflammation, sugar, anti-caking agents, and natural flavors. Not to mention making my own taco seasonings actually tastes better too! YIKES! Many of us grew up with the packets and had no idea!

BEST Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix

You’ll never purchase those store-bought packets again, after making them yourself!!

So simple, delicious, and lasts for several months – so double or triple this recipe and keep it handy in a small glass container near your stove.

Ingredients:

• 2 Tbsps. chili powder

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp paprika

• 3 tsps. ground cumin

• 2 tsps. sea salt

• 2 tsps. ground black pepper

Instructions for Taco Seasonings:

• In a small mixing bowl, whisk all ingredients until combined well.

• Store in an airtight container.

• To use your homemade spice mix in recipes, start with a smaller sprinkle – taste test to decide the amount of spice for your family’s taste.

• Usually, 1-2 Tablespoons per pound of ground meat is the perfect amount.

Food Fact!

Wild salmon contains an antioxidant called astaxanthin, this is what makes the wild salmon meat a beautiful dark pink to red color.

It’s because of its natural diet!

Although wild-caught salmon typically costs a bit more than farmed salmon, it’s definitely worth its weight!

Wild-caught salmon has more vitamins, minerals, and anti-inflammatory benefits.

I try to purchase salmon when I notice wild-caught salmon is on SALE.

If it’s a really great sale, then maybe I’ll stock the freezer too.

This recipe is EXCELLENT for meal prep too!

Simply add 1/2 cup of brown rice, or quinoa, veggies, lime wedges, and your salmon fillet, to each food prep container. Stays well in a sealed container in your fridge for up to 3 days.

4 servings

Ingredients:

• 2 Tbsps. homemade taco seasoning blend

• 4 skinless salmon filets

• 2 Tbsps. olive oil or avocado oil

• 1 medium red onion, diced

• 3 fresh garlic cloves, chopped

• 3 medium zucchini, diced

• 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced

• 1 x 15oz can black beans, drained and rinsed well

• sea salt and ground pepper, to taste

• 1 tsp crushed chili flakes, or to taste

• a handful of fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

• 1/2 cup crumbled cheese, like Cotija or feta cheese

• 2 fresh limes or lemons, juiced

Instructions:

Rub your salmon filets with the taco seasoning on both sides.

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, or until blackened and flaky.

Set aside on a plate.

In the same skillet sauté the onions for 2 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.

Add in your zucchini, tomatoes, and beans. Sauté for 5 minutes or so, then season lightly with sea salt, pepper, and crushed chili flakes.

Return your blackened salmon back to the skillet and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and crumbled cheese.

Serve with plenty of lime juice and enjoy!
Rachel

The post Mexican-Inspired Garden Fresh Salmon Skillet first appeared on Clean Food Crush.