Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Easy & Healthy Turkey Meatballs

There's a million and one meatball recipes to satisfy everyone. From chickpea meatballs for vegetarians to saucy beef for the meat lovers. Whatever it is, it's a comfort food for many, and very delicious!

Today I am sharing a recipe for meatballs I came up with after I was asked to make a healthier version of my signature meat balls. So, I substituted the veal/pork mix I usually use, and started using ground turkey. I also cut out fry/searing the meatballs before cooking, and just put it straight into the oven instead.

If you're looking to eat healthier meals and keep them delicious, not to worry.. this recipe is for you!

Ingredients

2 cups lean ground turkey
2 cups tomato sauce/crushed tomatoes
1 egg
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup light goat cheese
1 garlic clove, minced
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp sage
(1/4 cup shredded light mozzarella cheese is optional)


Directions

Add turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, spices and 1 tbsp olive oil in large bowl. Mix together with hands, and form large balls.

Then stuff goat cheese balls that you would previously form, into the meat balls. Re-roll the ball. (Makes about 5-6 large balls)

Add tomato sauce and remaining olive oil in an oven pan. Place meatballs on top and cover with a bit more tomato sauce.

Bake at 400F for 15 minutes, then lower heat to 350F and bake for another 40 minutes. For the remaining 5 minutes, you can sprinkle shredded light mozzarella on top.

Enjoy with some pasta, a salad, or on its own!

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

Why you need Apple Cider Vinegar in your life

Apple Cider Vinegar is a liquid which is made from apple must or cider and can range from a pale to amber colour. This vinegar isn't just for cooking. It's actually one of the best things for you (if you're not allergic to it that is!) Organic apple cider vinegar is the way to go, because it contains "mother of vinegar" and that's the key component to its awesomeness. Here are some reasons why you should be using more apple cider vinegar:


  • Helps with weight loss by encouraging the liver to suppress body fat accumulation from cells
  • Studies have shown drinking 2 tablespoons of ACV a day can lower glucose levels in blood
  • Drinking it will raise HDL (good cholesterol) and lower the levels of triglycerides (bad cholesterol)
  • Helps to break up mucous throughout the body when suffering from allergies or a chest cold
  • Eases sinus congestion when consumed
  • Reduces the frequency and severity of headaches 

  • As odd as it sounds, ACV eases heart burn when consumed over time because it can heal the Esophagus and lower the amount of acid in your stomach, Do not drink however if you suffer from an ulcer
  • Very good for improving hair by adding shine and strength. Add 1 teaspoon to 2 cups water and rinse hair after shampooing
  • Improves the look and feel of skin by regulating pH and softening and diminishing dark spots. Wet a cotton ball with ACV/water mix and dab on face 3x weekly to see results
  • Can lower blood pressure and improve heart health
  • Removes skin tags and warts
  • Known to sooth sunburnt skin. Just add a cup of ACV to a bath to ease pain
  • Can give your body a natural boost of energy when feeling sluggish
  • Kills head lice and fleas. Many parents use an ACV/water mixture remedy on their children's hair or their pets fur
Try keeping it around your kitchen and using it a bit more. I'm sure you'll begin to see apple cider vinegar as a bit more useful!