During the cold winter months, thoughts of getting comfortable on the couch, drinking full-bodied reds and eating grounding foods are all too common. Hunkering down is the human version of hibernation. However, as spring is right around the corner, our attitudes begin to shift. With that said, the idea of comfort food also begins to lighten up as cravings and nutrition goals change. Here are three recipes you can use to wake your body up from the inside out.
Pizza – Eat Healthy in the Comfort of Your Home
We all love pizza, but unfortunately, pizza doesn’t love us back the same way. After a slice, we tend to feel bloated and sluggish. Insert a plant-based cheese and almond flour crust, and you can enjoy the classic pizza flavors without all the repercussions.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp. Marinara Sauce
- 1 almond flour tortilla
- 1 cup of chopped veggies (broccoli, spinach, cauliflower, or ones of your choice)
- ¼ cup of shredded vegan mozzarella cheese
Macaroni and Cheese
Mac & cheese is something that we often whip up for our children but usually avoid ourselves. However, there are some vegan alternatives that provide a similar satisfaction, and our favorite is riced cauliflower and/or broccoli with a sweet potato and nutritional yeast “cheesy” sauce. The veggies provide a noodle-like base while the sauce gives it a bold flavor and creamy texture. Plus, the dish is low-carb and gluten-free. You can enjoy it out of the bowl or on top of a baked potato, and add a dash of hot sauce if you’re brave enough!
Hot Chocolate
Spring is right around the corner, but the sun isn’t here to stay just yet. Cold weather and April showers are the perfect time for you to enjoy a cup of something chocolatey. Swapping raw cacao and nut milk for processed chocolate powder and dairy milk turn this into a decadent but not consequential sweet treat.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp. raw cacao powder
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- ¼ tsp. Ground ginger
- ⅛ tsp. Sea salt
- Coconut whipped topping (if you want)
- Cinnamon to taste
Now that you have some meals in mind, it’s time to spring clean your energy.