Cranberry Macadamia Nut Blondies

An easy and tasty treat is at your fingertips with these low sugar cranberry macadamia nut blondies. It is an end of lunch light sweetness that makes you feel like you are cheating on your eating plan but you’re not.

It’s made with coconut flour and some of my favorite seeds to give it added protein and fiber. Even better, the cranberries are sweetened with juice instead of sugar, while the batter is slightly sweetened with maple syrup.

Cranberry Macadamia Nut Blondie Benefits

The inulin in this recipe amount to 2 teaspoons, that’s about two servings containing 10 calories, 5 carbs, and 4.4 grams of fiber. Inulin is made from organic chicory root which comes from the dandelion family.

It is thought to help stabilize blood sugars, works like a stool softener, and feeds our good gut bacteria. According to a Healthline article a 12-week study showed the oligofructose in this little gem decreased levels of ghrelin (the hunger hormone) in 48 adults.

Pairing this fiber with flaxseed meal and chia seeds gives each serving of this end of meal treat just over 3 grams of fiber per serving and 4 grams of protein. You know what that means?

Yep, you are well on your way to meeting your fiber and protein goals for the day.

You may notice I use chia seeds in most of my blondies or breakfast bars, too. The following graphic illustrates why. . . there are powerful benefits of adding this little jewel to any recipe. (1)

Chia seed benefits

Recipe Devotion

God’s amazing handiwork is seen in some of the smallest and simplest things he made, aren’t they?!

We didn’t understand or see the power of antioxidants until a few short 40 years ago. The ability for these polyphenols and isoflavones to protect against cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and painful inflammation is truly stunning.

He also understood ahead of time how our overabundant environment of ultra-processed food would contribute to hormone dysfunction and illness. I am so grateful for his thoughtfulness and foresight in planning our rescue!

Now, if we only understand and appreciate his efforts by partaking of his magnificent garden!

Don’t forget what God puts in the garden is always good! His plan for our physical and spiritual health is perfect. We can lean into his guidance and settle in His word to find contentment in every aspect of our lives.

Cranberry Macadamia Nut Blondies


Cranberry Macadamia Nut Blondies

  • 1/4 Cup Flaxseed (Milled)
  • 2 TBSP Coconut Flour
  • 1/4 Cup Chia Seeds
  • 1/4 Cup Sesame Seeds
  • 1/4 Cup Sunflower Seeds
  • 1 TBSP Avocado oil
  • 1/4 Cup Macadamia Nuts
  • 1/4 Cup Cranberries
  • 1/2 Tsp Salt
  • 1 Tsp Cinnamon
  • 1 Tsp Baking Powder
  • 2 TSP Inulin
  • 1/4 Cup Maple Syrup ((You can use 1/2 if you like them sweeter))
  • 1 Egg
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees

  2. Combine the flaxseed meal, coconut flour, spices, salt, inulin, and baking powder in a mixing bowl.

  3. Add the nuts, seeds, and cranberries.

  4. In a measuring cup combine the egg, oil, and maple syrup.

  5. Lightly grease an 9×9 inch pan with oil. Add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture and mix well, place in the pan and bake around 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cut into squares and enjoy!


I hope you enjoy making your own cranberry macadamia nut blondies for a quick on the run breakfast or use them for after dinner treats. There are many other breakfast bar ideas on the blog, so feel free to look around and check them out!

If you need coaching, I am here for you!

References:

Knez Hrnčič M, Ivanovski M, Cör D, Knez Ž. Chia Seeds (Salvia hispanica L.): An Overview-Phytochemical Profile, Isolation Methods, and Application. Molecules. 2019 Dec 18;25(1):11. doi: 10.3390/molecules25010011. PMID: 31861466; PMCID: PMC6994964.




Watermelon Rind Pie. . .Yep! The Rind.

I’m continually wondering how to reduce waste in food items. So, when summer comes and watermelon is plentiful, making a watermelon rind pie seems logical. Well, it may actually seem a little odd to some people, but being open to possibilities with God’s creation is why he gave us a brain, right?

After all, we are made in his image and after his likeness, which could mean a number of things. (Genesis 1:26) However, the ability to think, have character traits similar to him, and to create things, all come from God.

Therefore, it’s fun to look up ways to experiment with food leftovers, especially large items like watermelon rind!

Devotion

God gives us so much joy in the little things, doesn’t he? We can explore new things, use our imaginations, and create pleasant things for the people we love. The gift of life and the fullness of joy is being carved and molded into the image of his Son, Jesus.

I can’t think of a more generous gift or way of living than to be pleasing to others. Although, I’m not great at doing it all the time, it is my heart’s truest desire.

Every minute of our devotion to what is good and pleasing to God, matters, my friend.

He sees and He knows, how you want to please Him, too. Eventually, our ultimate pleasure is being with him forevermore.

You make known to me the path of life;
    in your presence there is fullness of joy;
    at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Psalm 16:10-11 ESV – For you will not abandon my soul to – Bible Gateway

In the meantime, we’ll enjoy everything he puts in his Word, the garden! There are more than a few benefits to this watermelon rind, than I ever knew.

Once I got some taste testers in line and proper feedback, I was able to tweak the recipe to be more texture and taste friendly. Oh… . and this much watermelon rind is enough to make two pies! So, you may want to double the pie crust recipe below for another, or use your standard pie crust recipe.


Watermelon Rind Pie. . .Yep! The Rind.

  • 6 Cups Watermelon Rind * (cooked until tender)
  • 1 Lemon ((Juice and grated peel))
  • 1 Banana
  • 10 Drops Stevia ((Vanilla Cream))
  • 3 Tbsp Honey (or sugar)
  • 2 eggs
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese

Crust

  • 1/2 Cup Walnuts
  • 1/2 Cup Tapioca Flour
  • 1 Tbsp Chia seeds ((expanded in 1/4 cup water))
  • 1 tsp coconut oil ((to coat the pie dish))
  1. *Please note there is no nutritional value available in this program for the rind. I have found other sources that say it is low in calories, and high in vitamins A, B-6, and C. It also has zinc and potassium and is high in carbs 2 cubes has about 17grams.

  2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and take the washed watermelon and peel the dark green rind off of the "meat" of the rind. Cut it into small cubes and place it on a parchment lined baking sheet. Sprinkle it with a mixture of 1/4 cup of sugar and 1/8th tsp of stevia. Bake until tender about 25-30 minutes.

  3. Once it is tender, combine it in a large bowl with the juice of 1 lemon and the zest of one lemon.

  4. Add an 8 ounce package of cream cheese and mix until well blended.

  5. Add two eggs and 1 tablespoon of tapioca flour.

  6. Pour into prepared crust and bake 35 to 45 minutes.


So, are you brave enough to try it?

I will definitely try it again, since the texture issue is fixed! I’ll post better pictures, too!

If you haven’t subscribed yet, don’t forget to do that on your way out.

Also, be sure to check out other low sugar summer treats on the blog! Low Sugar Cherry Tarts, Energy Boosting Breakfast Brownies, and Cranberry White Chocolate Granola Bars are a few.

If you need a wellness coach, I am here for you request an appointment here!




Mark 1: Jesus’ Message and Authority Lead to Humility and Surrender

Mark 1 shows us the beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the son of God. His message of repentance, the faith required to believe, and his authority are all on display.

John the Baptist prepared the way,

John appeared, baptizing in the wilderness and proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.

Mark 1:4

I think it’s interesting after Jesus’ baptism the Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. When he returned, he began driving out demons (spirits).  Here are the points I noted:

  1. The demons knew him and saw his authority.
  2. He taught the scriptures with authority.
  3. With a word, the demons came out and Jesus silenced them.
  4. At once, his fame spread everywhere in the region of Galilee.
  5. He healed many, and cast out demons.

We know from the scriptures; demons have zero power in the presence of Jesus. They are silenced, sent away, and they even know their ultimate fate of torture for eternity.  

But knowing this, the demons have no power to stop their evil acts. Much like lost souls have no desire or power to stop living for themselves and harming others in the process.

The cycle of sin and abuse spiral out of control as demonic activity reigns in the lives of people. Whether they try to escape mentally through pleasure seeking, are driven to eating excessively, buy all the latest trends, or drown themselves in work, the insidious power of evil won’t loosen its grip.

 People invite more demons in through their lifestyle choices. Before they know it, the people around them are sucked into the swirling abyss of constant pleasure seeking and escape from pain. Innocent children are affected and turned towards evil too and not by their own choice!

And here we thought the Old Testament was dead and gone.

Nope.

Jesus, message, authority

God just chose this place and time to put his Son in the midst of their depraved culture to show us and them who the demons and eventually we—will surrender to.

At the mighty name of Jesus, EVERY knee will bow!

When scriptures like this speak to you and me and God opens our eyes to areas where demonic spirits have more control over our lives than the Holy Spirit, we have hope.

 All we have to do is call on him, my friend.

No demon is too big or too strong for Jesus.

If it’s the spirit of anger—hand him over to Jesus.

If it’s the spirit of fear—trust Jesus to meet your needs.

If it’s the spirit of unbelief—-ask for faith to take over instead.

If its’ the spirit of greed, gluttony, power, or selfishness—-sincerely plead with Jesus to reign over your heart in its place.

If it’s sexual sin, confess to him and repent—he is faithful and just to forgive.

No one is above the need for Jesus.

A centurion and a synagogue leader are perfect examples in the Bible of how the strong may become weak. They heard of Jesus’ power and authority to heal spiritual and physical ailments, and both came to him. They understood authority as leaders of men, who were both holding high positions, yet now power to help the people they love.

No matter how important these men were, they came to a place of humility and understood the greater power of God.

In like manner, no matter how important we think we are, eventually we will all come to a place of humility before Jesus, too.

He has been given all authority and all power. The centurion said,

Just say the word and my servant shall be healed. (Mathew 8:8)

You and I have the wholeness of the gospel and the fullness of Jesus to absorb these next few weeks and I pray we understand it as the complex, deep, and abiding word that it is.

In it we will see miracle after miracle, and healing after healing. But we will also see Jesus submitting to Father God’s will.

If we understand that concept as the most important element of worship, I believe we will walk away from this study with unshakable faith.

I look forward to studying with you! Check out the resources on the blog for your physical and spiritual encouragement!




Carob & Almond Butter Dates

Carob & almond butter dates are small little delights to enjoy after a protein packed meal. Although, carob is not the same as cocoa, it does have a similar flavor. It’s milder than chocolate, and if we have a sensitivity to chocolate, or heaven forbid. . . don’t like it. . . carob might be a good substitute.

Anyway, since I like playing with food, I’m giving it a try. If you’ve visited this site much at all you can probably guess the reason why.

The nutritional value of carob makes me a fan!

Carob & Almond Butter Dates

Benefits of Carob Almond Butter Dates

Carob comes from the Mediterranean area and is rich in phytosterols. It is particularly rich in D-pinitol, an antioxidant that lowers cholesterol and improves blood sugar regulation. It is helpful in scavenging free radicals that can be precursors to cancer, while at the same time reducing oxidative damage to the pancreas and liver. Paired with dates, another polyphenol rich gift from God’s garden, and you and I get a double dose of goodness for improving HDL-cholesterol. (1)

The fiber-rich dried date is slow to raise blood sugar, and also contains calcium, magnesium potassium and zinc. (2) Overall, the nutrient rich benefits of these two garden goodies is well worth the 5 minutes it takes to make them! I love how God puts his divine stamp on everything he makes!

Devotion

So I will bless you as long as I live;
    in your name I will lift up my hands.

My soul will be satisfied as with fat and rich food,
    and my mouth will praise you with joyful lips,
when I remember you upon my bed,
    and meditate on you in the watches of the night;

Psalm 63:4-6 ESV – So I will bless you as long as I live; – Bible Gateway

King David, the Psalmist, praises the Lord despite being fiercely chased by his enemies. His trust is fully in God spiritually and physically, remembering in his thoughts and prayers a relationship outside of his circumstances. How inspiring it is to see a war-torn soul like his search for and praise God with joyful lips.

We can turn to Him in our distress too!

Our souls will be just as satisfied as our tongues are with a sweet and tasty treat!

Carob & Almond Butter Dates


Carob & Almond Butter Dates

  • 8 Dates ((soaked then dried))
  • 1 Tbsp. Carob Powder
  • 1 Tsp Coconut oil
  • 1/4 Tsp Cinnamon
  • 1 Tbsp Almond Butter
  1. Soak the dates in warm water a few minutes and then blot them dry on a paper towel.

  2. In a small dish melt the teaspoon of coconut oil. Once it's melted and liquid add the tablespoon of carob powder. Set aside until ready to use.

  3. Open the dates and lie them flat on a piece of parchment paper. Sprinkle each one with cinnamon.

  4. Place 1/2 Teaspoon of almond butter over each date, use more if needed.

  5. Cover the almond butter with a teaspoon of the carob/coconut mixture until all are covered. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes, then enjoy.


I hope you like the taste of Carob & Almond Butter Dates as much as my friends and I do!

I’ll be looking forward to more ways to use Carob for treat recipes very soon!

It might be a nice addition to some Copycat Kind Bars or Breakfast Bars!

Take care, and God bless!




3-Step Simple Detox for a Healthier You

Simple detox is a process of giving my body a break! I achieve this by eliminating potentially harmful substances from my diet. This is done over a period of time, usually 3, 5, or 7 days. I find it important to detoxify once or twice a year. This helps my body heal from the 10% indulgences I enjoy.

Plus, the overexposure of ultra-processed food and things in my environment are causing stiffness and joint pain. Maybe you can relate!

These chemical laden items in packages are sold in the grocery store and labeled “food.” They are filled with preservatives, additives, flavorings, inflammatory oils, salt, and sugar. Even some of my favorite “healthy” items which are good for others, may not be good for me.

I know this. Yet, I am a creature of habit. I’m still overcoming the surrounding culture and its definition of what is OK!

3 step simple detox

My body is constantly in detox mode when I consume these items. It’s nice to give it a break between meals by fasting. I can also offer fresh, clean, fruits and vegetables for several days to help it remove wastes more effectively.

In the process I can identify and eliminate food intolerances. So, here is my personal 3 step process for a simple detox.

Simple Detox in 3 Steps

1. Prepare Mentally

Preparing mentally will not only make the process easier, but it will also make the purpose of detoxing clear. Why is this valuable to me at this time?

Praying for guidance is always a priority for me. I also consult a health care provider to determine possible personal contraindications.

For instance, if I am very young, detox will entail removing all sugar. I will also remove processed meats and chips from their eating plan. Then, replace them with all fruits and vegetables. The rest of the eating plan would stay the same.

The same idea works for the elderly. Pregnant or breast-feeding women should avoid detoxification. Stored toxins can be released into the breast milk and given to the infant. Good thing, I’m not pregnant!

Nor am I taking medications that lower blood sugar or blood pressure. This requires extra caution because both will naturally be lowered. I produce my own nitric oxide and let the body do what God designed it to do!

3 step simple detox

Asking myself some basic questions is helpful too:

  • What do I hope to accomplish with this detoxification process?
  • What reliable resources have I found that will help me do this safely?
  • How will I handle the discomfort of withdrawal?
  • Do I want to purchase a prepared kit from my health care provider or just eat clean and remove toxins?
  • Last, but certainly not least, what scripture can I memorize to help me remember why this is important?

2 Corinthians 10 ESV – Paul Defends His Ministry – I, Paul, – Bible Gateway

2. Plan Sufficiently

Simple detox is doable with some sufficient planning. If my family is not participating, I will need to prepare some meals ahead of time. These meals will be for them to consume. I need a grocery list of items that support detox. These include organic fruits and vegetables. I also need a good water filter and some herbal teas.

3 step simple detox

Here are some ideas I use to plan sufficiently for the three, five, or seven days:

  • If detoxifying by eliminating processed foods— I Purchase only whole food items at the store
  • I also buy plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds. (No peanuts. . . goodbye 1 jar a week!)
  • Omit dairy (milk, cheese, sour cream, yogurt) eggs, meat, and bread. (Bread, eggs and yogurt are hard for me to give up!)
  • Stock up on quinoa and brown rice.
  • Consider a multivitamin for any possible lack of intake.
  • Drink green tea and herbal teas instead of coffee or soda. (Um, coffee. . . . .the hardest part of all for me!)
  • Pick a day to begin when I can rest. I might feel bad, because headache and general malaise are common. These symptoms are going to occur with withdrawal.

3. I keep a Journal

FB video journaling helped me articulate my body’s changes. These changes occurred through the 7-day process. It also helps me identify possible food intolerance as well as addictions I need to lay before the Lord.

I normally fast by eating very clean. I remove ALL ultra-processed foods. So, organic tortilla chips, coffee, and 72% cacao chips with minimal sugar are out. All-natural crunchy peanut butter and homemade kombucha are also out!

Friend, if I can just be vulnerable here a minute, I need you to know. . . coffee is such a stronghold for me, I wanted it after every meal, like a smoker wants a cigarette.

I knew it leaches vitamins and minerals out of the meal I just ate. It also removes vital minerals from my bones. This knowledge did not stop me from drinking it. . . .many times.

The struggle is real! I need this time of reflection and restoration.

For this detox, I purchased the Core Restore 7 Day Detox because it was doctor approved. I wanted the extra support of specific nutrients for detoxification. I was told I could eat all the organic fruit and vegetables as I wanted “as much as I want”.

I have felt deprived doing detox before. The idea of eating as much as I want did not sit well with me. I am prone to excess eating. So, I do expect limitations on the amount of fruit I eat when I detox. Excess fruit spikes blood sugar unnecessarily.

I think about this. Day 5 of my detox fell on Mother’s Day. I kept walking past the bowl of grapes and blueberries. . .grabbing a handful with each pass. No wonder there was no weight loss for me personally, when others lost several pounds.

Needless to say, most of my eating pattern did not change. Since, my weight is normal, that was not my intention.

The severe stiffness in my joints was gone after day 5. My creaky ligaments, which felt like early rigor Mortise, disappeared too! I literally felt 10 years younger!

Summary Results of My Simple Detox

I felt so good after this 7-day restoring process, that I continued to omit coffee, bread, peanuts, and yogurt. I believe those three items are the reason I am so stiff and sore most of the time.

The amazing thing that happened is I can now eat peppers and tomatoes again without reflux. I could not tolerate them before because of too much acid.

Moreover, the bloating and discomfort after eating is also gone—thanks to no bread or beans, I’m sure! I reintroduced eggs and did not notice a problem. I am also drinking kombucha without any symptoms.

It was a wonderful experience. I am happy to move on to the next phase of my restoration with a Fasting Mimicking Plan. So, stay tuned. If you are looking for some clean vegan detox recipes I have plenty on my blog!

I’d be happy to coach you through your doctor supervised program, too! Locally I have one to suggest for best results! Contact me here: Mysty Pfeffer Wellness Coaching – Georgetown, OH (clientsecure.me)




Gluten Free Buckwheat/Rice Crackers

Great! I have another epic gluten free tortilla failure! No worries, this gluten free buckwheat/rice recipe makes some decent crackers.

All of the ingredients for this little soup side are costly, so learning to repurpose such failures is necessary. After all, who wants to throw away food?

Benefits of Buckwheat/Rice Crackers

Homemade crackers are nice to have around because you and I control the oil, the salt, the flavor, the nutrients. No soybean or seed oils here! Adding chia and flax seed give this multigrain, gluten free cracker more fiber and protein, too.

Buckwheat is known for the flavonoids rutin and quercetin. Rutin is an antioxidant derivative of quercetin thought to be effective in reducing oxidative stress in neurodegenerative disorders. It helps reduce inflammatory cytokines and improves nerve cell protection in vitro for Parkinson’s disease, too. You’ll be happy to know, rutin is also found in cherries, grapes, apricots, oranges, grapefruit, and plums. (1)

Quercetin, in buckwheat and many other vegetables has been studied for its ability to improve physical and mental status. It’s antiviral and beneficial in removing heavy metal poisoning and pesticide damage in cells. But not only that it is also touted for helping to fight off cancer cells and diabetes. (2)

To top it off, the added chia and flaxseed in this buckwheat/rice cracker provide a valuable omega 3 precursor (ALA), which is beneficial for lowering inflammation. As you know, less inflammation throughout the body means less problems with stiffness, high blood pressure, and cardiac problems. Plus, the high fiber content of these nutritious seeds and whole grain brown rice make this failed mess a healthy, antioxidant rich, snack.

gluten free buckwheat rice crackers

Devotion

“At least there is hope for a tree:
    If it is cut down, it will sprout again,
    and its new shoots will not fail.

Job 14 NIV – “Mortals, born of woman, are of few – Bible Gateway

What God puts in the garden is good! The beauty of whole food and antioxidant power in study after study I read reveals his divine nature!

And friend, if the trees in the woods can’t fail to sprout new growth, neither can we.

The best news is, it applies to every area of our lives where we fail.

Do you fail in areas of self-control? He has the answer. He fills us to overflowing when we place our full trust in him.

Do you fail in relationships? He is the giver of peace and teaches us how love surpasses all hurt and disappointment.

Do you lack confidence? Rest in the assurance that every failure is a learning experience that sprouts hope for tomorrow.

When we face difficulties, we can rest assured God is pruning us to produce more fruit in our lives. We realize we cannot do these health changes on our own, we need strength from him and other believers.

Gluten Free Buckwheat/Rice Crackers


Gluten Free Buckwheat/Rice Crackers

  • 1 Cup Buckwheat Flour
  • 1 Cup Brown Rice Flour
  • 1/4 Cup Flaxseed (Ground)
  • 2 Tbsp Chia Seeds
  • 2 Tbsp Sesame Seeds
  • 1 Cup Water
  • 1/4 Cup Olive Oil
  • 1 Tsp Xanthan Gum
  • 1 Tsp Salt
  • 1/4 Tsp Baking Powder
  1. Combine the flours, salt, baking powder, ground flaxseed, and chia seeds until well combined.

  2. Add the water and olive oil together and combine until well blended.

  3. Roll the dough out onto an extra-large cookie sheet between two pieces of parchment paper until the dough is very thin. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and press them lightly into the dough.

  4. I use a pizza slicer to cut the dough into small 1×1 inch squares.

  5. Bake at them 300 degrees in the convection oven for about 40 minutes, check them at 25 and 30 minutes to make sure they are completely dry or until crisp and brown.


I hope you enjoy them as much as my MetS Busters group did this week! MetS Busters is a 12-week metabolic rehabilitation program designed to help participants lower blood pressure, triglycerides, waist circumference, blood sugar, and inflammation! I’m getting great feedback and testimonies of progress as participants learn new ideas, gain the support of their peers, and implement tried and true coaching tools!

Check out more cracker recipes here:

Oat and Quinoa Crackers

I am here for you if you need spiritual and physical health coaching! Take care!

References:

Enogieru AB, Haylett W, Hiss DC, Bardien S, Ekpo OE. Rutin as a Potent Antioxidant: Implications for Neurodegenerative Disorders. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2018 Jun 27;2018:6241017. doi: 10.1155/2018/6241017. PMID: 30050657; PMCID: PMC6040293.

Deepika, Maurya PK. Health Benefits of Quercetin in Age-Related Diseases. Molecules. 2022 Apr 13;27(8):2498. doi: 10.3390/molecules27082498. PMID: 35458696; PMCID: PMC9032170.




Chia Flaxseed & Flour Tortillas

Ramping up flavor, fiber, and nutrition in your average tortilla never became so easy and delicious! Chia flaxseed flour tortillas will be a family favorite before you know it!

This very simple recipe is also meant to give you more bang for your buck. . .nutritionally speaking.

The best part is they are very simple to make!

Check out the full Chia Flaxseed & Flour Tortilla Recipe Here:


Chia Flaxseed & Flour Tortillas

  • 2 1/2 Cups Flour (Unbleached and organic)
  • 1/2 Cup Flaxseed (Ground)
  • 2 Tbsp Chia Seeds
  • 1 Tsp Salt
  • 1/4 Tsp Baking Powder
  • 1/4 Cup Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 Cup Water
  1. Preheat skillet on the stove to a 3 or 4, low heat as you prepare your ingredients.

  2. In a bowl whisk the flour, ground flaxseed, salt, baking powder and chia seeds until well combined.

  3. Add the water and oil and mix until a soft dough forms. It it's still sticky lightly four the surface for rolling the dough rounds.

  4. Pinch off about a 2 inch ball of dough and roll it out on the counter until thin.

  5. Place the round on the dry skillet and watch closely, it will cook on each side about 30 seconds. If they are overcooked, they won't be pliable like tortillas, but they will make great crackers. So, don't throw them out if this happens.

  6. Continue to roll out more balls of dough and place them in the skillet to cook.

  7. When they are cooled, they can be stored in a zip lock bag in the fridge until you are ready to use them. When ready to eat, heat each one in the microwave 10 seconds or on a hot skillet for about 30 seconds.


I look forward to giving you more simple health tips and recipes so don’t forget to subscribe to the website.

Enjoy even more tortilla ideas in the posts below:

Gluten Free Tortilla

Tortillas Three Ways

10 Ways to Use Tortillas Wraps for Dinner

What God puts in the garden is good!




Tasty & Simple Salad in a Jar Ideas

Don’t you just love salad in a jar? Well, maybe not eating it from a jar, but the flavor combination and storage capacity of these tasty mini meals or side dishes is fabulous!

It also helps us meal preppers plan the week a little easier so it flows into everyday life. Then we can actually enjoy life, instead of spending hours and hours in the kitchen.

After all, enjoying life is all about doing what we love to do and having the energy and stamina to do it, right?

Therefore, intentionally thinking about all the vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and protein we are packing in these cute little jars is going to give us the healthy bodies we need to do what we love!

Salad in a Jar ideas

Mediterranean
Style Salad

Salad in a Jar ideas

All you do is place a mix of the oil/lemon, and spices in the bottom of six-pint jars, then place a tablespoon of each vegetable in the jar. Top with a tablespoon of quinoa, a teaspoon each of sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds. Fill the rest of the jar with salad greens. Store in the fridge until ready to eat! Enjoy!

Dressing

  • 1 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 Tsp Lemon Juice
  • 1/2 tsp each onion powder, salt, and pepper—Mix in the bottom of your jars.

Vegetables/Grain/Protein

  • 1/4 Chopped Red Pepper
  • 1/4 Chopped Orange or Yellow Pepper
  • 1/4 Chopped Onion & Cucumber
  • 3/4 Cup precooked quinoa
  • 1/2 Cup chopped tomatoes
  • 1/2 Cup of your favorite olives (kalamata are great!)
  • 2 cups of Salad Greens

Turmeric/Ginger
& Veggie Salad

Dressing

  • 1 Tsp Turmeric/Ginger/Honey Sauce *
  • 1 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Veggies/Protein

  • 1/4 head of shredded purple cabbage
  • 1 small shredded beet
  • 1/4 finely minced onion
  • 1/2 Cup quinoa
  • 1/4 Cup pumpkin Seeds
  • 1/2 Cup Chick Peas
  • 2 Cups Spring Greens

Again, you’ll need six clean pint jars. In the bottom of each jar place the tsp of turmeric/ginger/honey sauce (see recipe below) and 1 tbsp on EVOO. Add 1 tablespoon of the cabbage, beet, quinoa, and chickpeas. Add a teaspoon of pumpkin seeds, then divide the spring greens among the remaining space in the jars. Walla—–you have Tasty and Simple Salad in a Jar!

What are your ideas for a great salad in a jar?

More Salad in a Jar Ideas

A Cobb salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, celery, nitrate free turkey bacon, boiled eggs, salad greens with ranch at the bottom? OH, my!

Black Bean Salad—-, black beans, peppers, onions, tomatoes, corn, & salad greens with avocado dressing (1/2 cup plain yogurt, onion powder/lemon juice/ and 1/2 avocado mashed and mixed)

Chick Pea/Red Pepper/Cabbage and Beet—–in a pint jar mix 1 tbsp EVOO, 1 tsp lemon juice, 1/2 tsp honey, a pinch of salt & pepper. Whisk together well. Add flavored chickpeas, 1 tbsp shredded carrots, 1 tbsp red and yellow peppers/ 1 tbsp of red cabbage relish, 1 cup of spring greens, 1 tsp sunflower seeds.

Store all of them in the fridge up to four days until ready to eat!

Turmeric/Ginger/Garlic/Honey Jar

This delicious concoction came from my friend Halina—she says she puts 1 cup of fresh ground turmeric/1 cup fresh ground ginger/ 1/4 cup fresh ground garlic/ and 1 cup of raw honey with 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. She then mixes it all together and divides into little gift jars.

How cute is that for an anti-inflammatory gift in a jar?

I mix a teaspoon of this with black pepper and a tablespoon of olive oil for my salad dressing. It’s delicious!

I hope you like the recipes. There are plenty more salad ideas here, so check them out too!

Red Relish and Cherry Salad

Simple Pear & Pepper Salad

Tuna & Red Pepper Salad with Quinoa

What God puts in the garden is so good! He loves us and gave his Son for our souls, as well as all these goodies in the garden for our physical health!

Enjoy this verse today for your spiritual gifts, and for the spiritual strength to do his will!

I always thank my God for you because of God’s grace given to you in Christ Jesus, that by Him you were enriched in everything—in all speech and all knowledge. In this way, the testimony about Christ was confirmed among you, so that you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ. He will also strengthen you to the end, so that you will be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful; you were called by Him into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

1 Corinthians 1 HCSB – Greeting – Paul, called as an apostle – Bible Gateway

God bless you!

If you want to check out the MetS Busters program for your workplace, church, or club, let me know here!




Sourdough Spelt & Hard Red Chocolate Walnut Muffins

A rough week of allergies calls for some healthy comfort food! Yep! Sourdough, spelt & hard red wheat muffins with chocolate and walnuts are healthy! They are also very comforting!

I’m curious what creations you make with your sourdough starters, too! With curious bakers like you and me around, the possibilities are endless.

All I did to make these extra-large muffins was use my Peanut Chocolate Chip Muffin recipe and adapt it to include the sourdough starter. It was a total guess as to what to do here and there, so don’t be disappointed if it’s not foolproof. I am, what you might call, an experimental baker not an expert.

But boy! Do they taste good!

The next time I make these, I might change the water to half water and half nutmilk or coconut milk, but really, water worked well. The house smelled like fresh doughnuts and the moisture of the muffins was spot on.

sourdough chocolate walnut muffins

Benefits of Sourdough Spelt & Hard Red Chocolate Walnut Muffins

I used a cup of organic fresh-milled hard red wheat and a cup of organic spelt for this recipe. I like the nutty flavor of the hard red wheat, plus it has 136mcg of selenium per cup. That’s ten times more selenium than other grains! It also packs 10.5 mg niacin, 73mcg of folate, 1152 mg omega 6, 51.8mg of omega 3, and 23.4grams of fiber!

Partnered with spelt, which is loaded with 113mg omega 3, 6.3mcg of vitamin K, 11.9mg of niacin, 7.7 mg of iron, 68.9mcg of folate, and we are talking about a decadent treat without the guilt! We’ll enjoy a combined duo of over 400mg magnesium, and 1500mg potassium with modest amounts (12mg) of zinc per cup!

I love what God puts in the garden for our good and his glory! There is no better way to overcome seasonal allergies! After all his testimony is true and faithful in the things that he made. . .

 Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.

Acts 14:16-18 NIV – In the past, he let all nations go – Bible Gateway

Do you know him today? Is there an emptiness in your life you cannot describe? Perhaps the sense of missing a vital piece of joy and contentment is something you can’t quite shake. Spiritual health as well as physical health is withing reach! Knowing Jesus as Lord and Savior fills that mysterious and unnamable void and can be yours today!

I will pray it consumes you, in a good way, as you seek him in his word!

You won’t regret surrendering your life to him, I promise you. In the meantime, check out the recipe for these delicious muffins to tantalize your pallet and fill your belly.

sourdough chocolate walnut muffins


Sourdough Spelt & Hard Red Chocolate Walnut Muffins

  • 1 Cup Wheat (Fresh-Milled Hard Red)
  • 1 Cup Spelt (Fresh-milled)
  • 1 1/4 Cup Water
  • 2 Tsp Baking Powder
  • 1/2 Cup Sourdough Starter
  • 1/2 Cup Honey
  • 1 Egg ((optional, you can use 4oz applesauce))
  • 2 tsp Cinnamon
  • 1/2 Cup Walnuts
  • 1/2 Cup Dark Chocolate Chips ((72% Cacau))
  • 2 Tbsp Coconut Oil (Melted)
  1. The morning of your muffin making, feed your starter so you have enough to make 1/2 cup. Let it sit until it becomes active and bubbly, this varies between 3-6 hours depending on how warm the room is. At the same time combine your fresh-milled flours in a separate bowl and add the water and baking powder. This will soak up all that good bran and germ around the wheat kernels (autolyze) and make the dough soft.

    No worries, go to work or run some errands.

  2. When the starter is activated, about 3-4 hours later, combine the starter to the flour water mixture. I let this sit anywhere from 6-8 hours. For this experiment, I put it in the fridge and went to bed.

  3. The next morning, I heated my oven to 375 degrees, got my muffin cups ready, and added the cinnamon, honey, coconut oil, and egg. I combined all of it until all the ingredients were incorporated and then placed them in the oiled muffin papers. I then baked them for about 30 minutes.

    They are BIG muffins! So, that is why they have so many calories. You can totally make 12 smaller muffins and that would be fine.

    Let them cool and enjoy!


I cannot wait to try this with my thawed pumpkin puree or with blueberries and lemons! I’ll have to change the liquid portion a bit, but they will be so good! If you get a chance to try these sourdough, spelt and hard red wheat muffins with chocolate and walnuts, I hope you enjoy them, too!

Check out the site for more recipes using fresh-milled grain, there are plenty!

Have a great day and God bless!




Naturally Colored Crackers

I love making these naturally colored crackers with vegetables and olive oil. Beets, broccoli, and cheddar are divided into three parts to make these colorful and tasty crackers.

It’s an easy way to avoid dyes in my food, too!

The concerns for dyes and preservatives in the food supply are climbing as children and young adults have more difficulty concentrating at school and at work. The History of Dyes In Food, Why it Matters, & a List of Safe Foods quotes some research articles related to dyes and behavioral problems.

naturally colored crackers

Benefits of Naturally Colored Crackers

Although fresh-milled whole wheat is the star of this crunchy snack, a good unbleached organic flour is acceptable, too. The fresh-milled grains provide the original B vitamins, plenty of fiber and protein, and necessary valuable minerals.

I thought a cup of beets would be nice for making them red. It will add a few antioxidants. A cup of broccoli is pretty cool too for making them green, and bringing in some sulforaphane, calcium, potassium, and iron. (1)

Cheddar is set aside to flavor the rest.

God provides what we need in the garden, and we can use the items in our baked goods to make ordinary crackers even better.


Naturally Colored Crackers

  • 3 Cups Wheat Flour
  • 1 Tsp. Salt
  • 1 Tsp. Onion Powder
  • 1/2 Tsp. Baking Soda

Beet Cracker

  • 1/2 Cup Beets
  • 1 Tbsp. Olive Oil
  • 3 Tbsp. Water

Broccoli

  • 1/2 Cup Broccoli
  • 1 Tbsp. Olive Oil
  • 3 Tbsp. Water

Cheddar Cheese

  • 1/2 Cup Cheddar Cheese
  • 1 Tbsp Olive Oil
  • 4 Tbsp Water
  1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees.

  2. Combine the flour, salt, onion powder and baking soda in a mixing bowl.

  3. Take 1 cup of the flour mixture and place it in a separate bowl.

    Puree the beets in the oil and water and add it to the flour. Mix into a soft dough.

    Roll out the dough onto the counter thinly and cut into desired shapes.

    Place on a cookie sheet and bake at 300 30 minutes and turn them over to bake 30 more minutes or until desired crispness.

  4. Repeat the process for the broccoli. Mixing it with the water, oil, and 1 cup of the flour. Roll out and cut into desired shapes and bake at 300 for 30 minutes each side.

  5. Use the 3rd cup of flour and mix it with the cheddar cheese, water, and oil. Roll out and cut into desired shapes. Bake at 300 30 minutes turn and bake 30 more minutes.


I hope you enjoy the crackers and the rest of the recipes on this blog!

It’s my pleasure to bring them to you!

Refernces:

Hwang JH, Lim SB. Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Activities of Broccoli Florets in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 Cells. Prev Nutr Food Sci. 2014 Jun;19(2):89-97. doi: 10.3746/pnf.2014.19.2.089. PMID: 25054107; PMCID: PMC4103733.