I have to admit right off the bat, I never look for salad recipes. Therefore, I don’t expect anyone else to do that either. So, when a lady requested some salad recipes, I realized what I take for granted in my daily regimen is not the same for everyone. Therefore, if you are looking for a fresh take and full impact for staying full, you’re in the right place. Sustaining and easy salad ideas are here for your enjoyment!
Breakfast Salad and Eggs
Now, don’t be put off by the thought of salad first thing in the morning. It is delicious! The firs thing to do is get that image of iceberg lettuce out of your head and think about lucious spinach, arugula, and beet greens found in an organic 50/50 blend of greens.
The benefit is a good start to your day of magnesium, manganese, potassium, vitamin E, protein, and antioxidants to get you through your morning without feeling hungry or deprived. Here is how simple it is:
Gather 2 cups of salad greens on a plate or shallow bowl, sprinkle with some onion powder, drizzle a capful of organic extra virgin olive oil over it plus a capful of apple cider vinegar, and set aside.
Prepare two free range eggs according to your preference: soft, medium, hard cooked over 1 tsp of organic extra virgin olive oil. In the same skillet add 1 tablespoon of sunflower seeds and 1 tablespoon of pumpkin seeds, until just toasted.
Place the eggs and seeds over your greens and enjoy!
Prebiotic and Probiotic Loaded Salad Fix
Another sustaining and easy salad idea comes from the same salad mix of 50/50 blend or this salad. It is a perfect blend of flavor and nutrition: Here’s what you add:
1 cup finely chopped broccoli
1 cup finely chopped carrots
1/2 cup cucumbers
1/4 cup finely sliced beets
1/4 cup each blueberries and blackberries
If you prefer you can add 3 ounces of your favorite meat (chicken breast, fish, steak) or 1/2 cup garbanzo beans.
For your dressing Mix 1/4 cup full fat plain Greek Yogurt with 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon oregano, and a tablespoon of fresh parsley and lemon balm. It’s better with minced, juicy tablespoon of onion (but if you’re in a hurry use the onion powder).
God’s Word Sustains Us Too!
The Lord sustains him on his sickbed; in his illness you restore him to full health.
The Lord does sustain us in our times of sickness and restores us to full health. Moreover, this is not just physical, but also spiritual and mental. I need Him to sustain me every day, His word provides the encouragement I need to overcome mental attacks and his garden provides all the nutrients to fight against environmental attacks.
Take advantage of these sustaining and easy salad ideas today, my friend, because what’s in God’s garden is so good!
Two 15 Minute Preparation Day Meals
Two Easy Meals for One or Two People
Hello, my heart friend. I find myself in need of a few quick meals that are easy to prepare and store for my lunch the next day. How about you? Thinking ahead and preparing the meals on my preparation day, helps me eat a little healthier too. I know I want my vegetables to be crisp and flavorful, so stir-fry is my go to. Shrimp is on sale this week and it will compliment the veggies well for my first meal.
The second meal, incorporates broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots with Adele’s Chicken Apple Sausage. So, here is your shopping list for both:
1 lb. organic carrots
1 bunch organic broccoli
1 head of cauliflower
1 ounce of coconut aminos
2 tablespoons organic extra virgin olive oil
1 cup fresh snap peas
1 onion
1 lb organic button mushrooms
1 package Adele’s Chicken apple sausage
1 12 oz bag shrimp
1 red pepper
Onion powder
1 bulb of garlic
If you are in a pinch and do not have time (or the energy) to cut up all theses vegetables don’t hesitate to make your life a little easier and substitute a 12 ounce bag of frozen, already chopped stir-fry vegetables and a 12 ounce bag of California Style vegetables. They both contain all of the vegetables listed above.
15 Minute Shrimp Stir-Fry
First, sauté 1 cup of precooked shrimp in 1 minced clove of garlic and heated olive oil, heat for about a minute then remove from the skillet and set aside.
Second, place the stir-fry vegetables into the skillet ( this can be your 12 ounce bag of stir-fry vegetables) or sauté 1/2 cup mushrooms in 2 tablespoons of olive oil, add the onions, then the carrots, stir until just tender, add 1/4 cup diced red pepper and snap peas. Add the 1 cup chopped broccoli last. Mix 1 ounce of coconut aminos with 2 ounces of water and add this to the pan, stir well then add incorporate the shrimp.
It only takes about 15 minutes. ****I do not add salt to this dish because the coconut aminos is high in sodium, it is spread throughout the dish, but if you are on a low sodium diet you may want to use less, maybe a teaspoon instead of an ounce***
15 Minute California Blend with Chicken Apple Sausage
First, heat a medium skillet with very lightly coated olive oil.
Next, thinly slice the sausage and sauté until browned. Remove from heat, cover, and set aside. Add 1 ounce of olive oil mixed with two ounces of water to the skillet. Follow that with 1 tsp onion powder, 1 teaspoon pepper, and a pinch of salt.
Lastly, stir until just tender and return the sausage to the pan, mix well and serve or store for lunch the next day!
I hope these easy 15 minute meals help you have an easier week! Maybe it will offer you less time to stress over what to eat and more time to spend enjoying life. Here is a beautiful message from Paul in chapter 5 of Romans to spend some time on today as you check off one more thing on your to do list:
Therefore, since we have been declared righteous by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. We have also obtained access through Him by faith[ into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also rejoice in our afflictions, because we know that affliction produces endurance,endurance produces proven character, and proven character produces hope. This hope will not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
You have a blessed day and remember, what God puts in the garden is good!
Caramelized Carrots & Asparagus
The month of May in the Ohio Valley brings forth really nice asparagus patches. The flavor and health benefits of asparagus make it a star side dish or main meal in our house. Caramelized carrots and asparagus with walnuts is an easy delicious way to enjoy this springtime vegetable.
Although, I love eating and preparing this vegetable, I don’t have great success growing it in my garden. Hopefully, that will change as I read about the ph. of soil, fertilizing, and appropriate harvesting. In the meantime, I’ll enjoy my local grocer’s variety and whip up this recipe for my family
What’s God Put’s In The Garden is Good
As I think about the nutritional value of asparagus, I think about our loving Creator placing just the right amount of folate in our food for us to thrive. There are 89 micrograms per cup, which is 22% of a lady’s daily requirement. (1) If combined with a cup of black-eyed peas half of the daily requirement for folate is met…NATURALLY. Why is this important?
Pay attention, heavens, and I will speak; listen earth, to the words of my mouth. Let my teaching fall like rain and my word settle like dew; like gentle rain on new grass and showers on tender plants. For I will proclaim Yahweh’s name. Declare the greatness of our God! The Rock-His work is perfect; all His ways are entirely just, A faithful God, without prejudice, He is righteous and true.
Deuteronomy 32: 1-4
We all have a folate receptor 1 gene (FOLR1) which need this B vitamin to transmit information through the membranes of our cells. It repairs DNA, regulates gene expression, protein production, and is vital for nerve impulses and transmission. (2) No wonder spinach, broccoli, brussels sprouts, beef liver and black-eyed peas are so valuable!
They provide the natural form of folate absorbed by the intestines and utilized by our bodies to continue the necessary functions of our cells. Without it we are more susceptible to depression, dementia and chronic disease.
Caramelized Carrots & Asparagus
1 Bundle Fresh Washed and Chopped Asparagus
3 Organic, peeled and sliced Carrots
2 Cloves Minced Garlic
1/4 Cup Chopped Walnuts
2 Tbsp. Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/2 Tsp. Onion Powder
1/2 Tsp. Salt & Pepper
In a medium skillet, add 1 cup water with the sliced carrots and minced garlic. Cover and bring to a simmer. Watch it closely and stir until all the water is almost boiled off, add the olive oil, stir well until the carrots are tender and just caramelized. Add the asparagus, seasoning and walnuts. Leave uncovered and stir frequently to keep it from sticking, about 5 minutes is all you need to steam the asparagus. Serve immediately as a main dish or special side!
So, enjoy your caramelized carrots and asparagus dish and feed your cells at the same time!
“And when the hour came, he reclined at table, and the apostles with him. And he said to them, “I have earnestly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. For I tell you I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” Luke 22:14-16
The beauty of the Seder meal is the retelling of Israel’s flight from Egypt. As Judeo-Christian histories overlap this season, I have an opportunity to appreciate some of the things our Messiah, Jesus, may have enjoyed with his disciples before becoming the Passover lamb.
Traditionally, the story of the Exodus is retold with families of faith around the world. The bitterness of slavery, as well as God’s deliverance from the death angel are read. In addition to this, the plagues of judgment and preparing the unleavened bread for a hasty departure are retold to the next generation.
Therefore, each food item represents a part of the Israelite’s flight from Egypt. Interestingly enough the symbols also represent Jesus as the suffering servant for new covenant believers as well. Prior to his betrayal and during the last supper together, he washed the disciples feet in preparation for the meal.
Jesus, The Suffering Servant
Although, this task was usually placed upon the lowest household servant, Jesus demonstrates to the apostle’s humility in serving. He also gives a whole new meaning to loving our enemies. In fact, the thoughts of Judas were clear to Christ as he knelt before his betrayer to wash his feet.
Furthermore, celebrating the Seder meal with Jesus at the center brings depth to the celebration. A keen awareness of my slavery to sin and the tears of anguish for my slavery is revealed. The bread of life for my body, became the bread of life for my soul with the death, burial and resurrection of our risen Savior!
A lovely rendition of this meal, incorporating the last supper can be found on You Tube in “Shabbat in Your Home” here is the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wVHa_hDwAlM
So, I hope you enjoy an easy and delicious Seder Meal with Jesus this week as you prepare your heart for our Lord. Personally, this meal will forever change the way I observe and practice the history of my faith.
Bitter Herbs and Vegetables
Cucumbers, Onions, Mint, & Celery 1 Chopped Organic English Cucumber 1 Tablespoon Finely Chopped Onion 2 Teaspoons Fresh Chopped Mint (I used Lemon balm) 3 Stalks of Celery Washed and Chop 1 Tablespoon Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil Salt to taste
Wash and cut the celery for a tray. Combine the chopped cucumber, onion, and mint (a bitter herb) in a bowl, while seasoning with salt and the olive oil and set aside while you prepare the reminder of your meal. A small dish of salted water to dip the vegetables in is served alongside the the vegetables for dipping. The salted water represents the tears of the Israelites during their years of enslavement.
Jesus, The Bread of Life
Matzah This recipe is very similar to the tortilla shells I make, the only difference is the amount of ingredients are different, they are baked, and the dough is pierced with a fork. This is a very simple and delicious reminder of the bread and body of Christ.
As they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take and eat it; this is My body.”Then He took a cup, and after giving thanks, He gave it to them and said, “Drink from it, all of you.” Mathew 26;25-27
Preheat oven to 425 and place a stone pizza pan into the oven to heat. Combine 1 cup of flour, ½ teaspoon of salt in a bowl and whisk until salt is combined. Add 1/3 cup of hot water to one teaspoon of olive oil then add the liquid until it is all combined. Knead the bread lightly and divide into 8 balls. Roll out into squares until very thin then use a fork to pierce the bread all over (As you can see above mine were too thick) Bake 2 min on first side, flip them over, bake 2 more minutes, then remove and brush with olive oil and salt.
Charoset According to tradition, this side dish represents the brick and mortar the Israelites made for Pharaoh. I used: 1 Organic chopped Gala Apple 1/2 Teaspoon Cinnamon 1 Tablespoon of Honey 2 Tablespoons of Finely Chopped Pecans Place all the ingredients in a bowl and serve with the Matzah
Lamb Chops and Roasted Potatoes & Parsley
4 Lamb Chops 2 Tablespoons Fresh Chopped Rosemary 2 Large Clove Minced Garlic Chopped and Salted 1 Lbs. Organic Small Golden Potatoes 1 Tablespoon Chopped Parsley ½ Teaspoon of Salt.
Preheat Oven to 450 Set the Lamb Chops on a paper towel to dry completely and set aside. Meanwhile, place an iron skillet on medium high heat on the stove.
Wash and prepare potatoes for a baking dish, toss them with 2 tablespoons of organic olive oil and 1 teaspoon of salt. Place in the heated oven for 20 minutes and bake until golden brown. Remove, stir and add the chopped parsley.
Make a rub with the finely minced then mashed garlic, ½ teaspoon of salt, and the chopped rosemary, rub the herbs on the meat. Place a table spoon of olive oil in the well heated skillet and sear the chops on one side 3 minutes (without turning). When browned turn over and heat the other side 3 minutes. I finish them off in the heated oven for three more minutes, then let them rest.
I have enjoyed reading the articles and watching the videos! For instance, it has inspired me to make the following recipes with the encouragement of Candice Reyes at Hooks2Crook! I did not know about the connection between Jesus and the Seder Passover meal until this week! I hope you have a blessed Resurrection Sunday and the eternal hope of our Lord, Jesus Christ!
Cashew Cauliflower & Asparagus Medley
Does your body sometimes crave the goodness of the garden? Mine does, especially after indulging in too many sweets while on vacation. Even though I maintain that 80% fruit, vegetable, whole food plan, that 20% of junk is causing misery. So, it’s back to basics with this Cashew Cauliflower & Asparagus Medley.
Cauliflower is a Powerhouse in Fighting Disease
When I think of all the benefits of cauliflower and asparagus I start to feel better already. The idea of decreasing joint pain and stiffness is appealing with this combination of anti-inflammatory delights. Cauliflower for instance, contains antioxidants that help fight cancer, the aging process and aide hormone balance. As a member of the brassica family of vegetables, cauliflower contains phytochemicals that lower oxidative stress, promote detoxifying enzymes, stimulate the immune system, decrease the risk of cancer, inhibit cancer causing mutations at the cellular level, as well as reducing the ability of cancer cells to grow and reproduce (1). We are talking, POWERHOUSE, of God given ability to fight disease.
While the benefits of cauliflower are amazing, its sister asparagus, in this dish also empowers our cells to fight disease! The polyphenols extracted in one study showed five antioxidant nutrients to fight disease; including ferulic acid, quercetin, rutin, isorhamnetin and kaempferol (2).
I don’t know about you, but I’m in! I’m starting by combining the lovely cauliflower with asparagus and cashews.
What God Puts in The Garden is So Good!
And God said, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food. Genesis 1:29
There is no doubt science reveals the complexity and phenomenal plan of God’s provision for our bodies. His provision for our bodies is only outdone only by His provision for our mind and souls… through his word. So be assured today, in the beginning was the word and the word was with God and the word was God, he was with God in the beginning and the word became flesh and dwelt among us in the form of Jesus. (John 1:1, 14).
What a beautiful plan for divinely designed people!
Cashew Cauliflower & Asparagus Medley
6 Button Mushrooms (Cleaned and Chopped)
1 Tbsp. Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/4 Onion
1 Clove Minced Garlic
1/2 Head Organic Cauliflower, washed and Chopped
5-6 Spears Organic Asparagus
1 TSP Thyme
1 TSP Onion Powder
1/2 TSP Pepper
1/4 Cup Chopped Cashews
Sauté the mushrooms in heated olive oil until tender. Add the onions and garlic and cook until translucent, about a minute or two. Then add the chopped cauliflower and asparagus and cook a couple of minutes until just tender, add spices and top with chopped cashews.
Enjoy!
So, if you like this Cashew Cauliflower & Asparagus medley you may also like more dishes from the brassica family! You can check them out here:
Super simple and delicious Kale and Butternut Squash Quesadilla’s will be just the right side to your chicken chili! I know, I’m wearing out that butternut squash, but when a girl can’t eat tomatoes but loves Mexican food…something has to give! So, I ‘m giving it all the chances I can for making a healthier meal. All you’ll need is a slice of Havarti cheese and the recipes for Quinoa Chia Tortilla Shells and Butternut Squash/soup below.
All you have to do is heat your skillet, spread your butternut squash over half of the tortilla, place your fresh cut kale over that, sprinkle with some onion salt. Split one slice of Havarti cheese evenly over the kale; then fold your tortilla shell over and brown in the buttered skillet about 3-5 minutes each side! Yum! You never know, Kale and Butternut Squash Quesadilla’s may just be your new favorite too!
Remember, what’s in the garden is so good!
The earth produced vegetation: seed-bearing plants according to their kinds and trees bearing fruit with seed in it according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good.
The first time I saw Soft Fish Taco’s on a cooking show, I thought, “WHAT!?” So, of course I wanted to try it. I don’t remember what fish or spices they used to make it either. A general rule of thumb for basic items like fish tacos is use what you know tastes good with fish and if it doesn’t turn out go back and look at the recipe. Now, the exception of course is baking; I follow the recipe to the T the first time, then change as I prefer. My guess is, you may too.
The standout for me on the first recipe I saw years ago was the garlic cucumber yogurt sauce, Tzatziki. Delicious! I love to make a red cabbage vinegar slaw to go on the side as well. Yum. If you can find Ice Atlantic cod, that is wild caught in Iceland, that is best. The Pacific cod in my local grocer is from China, and I’m not sure how trustworthy anything processed from there is anymore.
Cod Fish Benefits
The benefits of cod fish are: It’s low in calories and provides B12, magnesium, potassium and zinc. Included in this impressive nutrient load is approximately 90mcg of iodine; which is important for people with low thyroid function. Cod is also a good source of protein (20 grams for approximately 3 ounces). It is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids as well, which are touted for their heart health benefits. The funny thing is, studies show the fish oil capsules help with inflammatory pain like arthritis but are not conclusive with improving heart health. However, eating the actual fish is! There is always a lead in Science revealing a link back to food in its natural form, isn’t there? Kind of like what God puts in the garden (and the waterways) to nourish and sustain us!
Come and have breakfast,” Jesus told them. None of the disciples dared ask Him, “Who are You?” because they knew it was the Lord. Jesus came, took the bread, and gave it to them. He did the same with the fish.
Jesus knew exactly what Peter, James and John needed after a long night of fishing. They not only need the nourishment of fish and bread, but of encouragement to do the necessary work of fishing for men. Men and women looking for something to fill the emptiness in their souls. An emptiness only Jesus, himself, can fulfill. Fortunately, for the disciples and us, he provides both. Take heart today, be strengthened by knowing the gospel of Jesus and His provision. Who knows? We may have the privilege of eating breakfast with Him too some day!
In the meantime enjoy these soft Cod Fish Tacos!
Soft Cod Fish Tacos
1 10oz Package Thawed Cod Fish
1 Tbsp. Olive Oil
1 Tsp. Chili Powder
1/2 Tsp. Paprika
Coat fish with seasoning cut into medium chunk, sauté fish in olive oil until done approx. 5-7 minutes. Or toss with seasoning and olive oil and bake at 400 for 18-30 min.
Serve over Tzatziki sauce (1/2 cup plain yogurt/ 1 cloves mashed roasted garlic/ 1/4 tsp pepper, 1 squeeze of lemon juice)
or Red Cabbage Slaw (1/2 cup shredded red cabbage, 1 tsp apple cider vinegar, 1/4 tsp salt. 1 tbsp. olive oil, 1 tbsp. onion, 1 tbsp. minced orange or yellow pepper.
or Daikon Radish Slaw
1/2 cup shredded daikon radish, 1/4 cup shredded cucumber, 1/4 tsp. salt, 1/2 tsp no salt seasoning, 1 tsp apple cider vinegar, 2 tsp olive oil.
The Soft Fish Tacos are really good on these homemade tortilla shells or Over a Quinoa Bowl!:
A Cottage pie is one of my favorite meals on a cold winter day. Well actually, any day of the year works, but when it’s cold outside and the oven is on…I just get that toasty, comfortable cottage feeling. Now, since I’m reading a book about excess carbohydrates and Alzheimer’s Disease, I want this one to be low carb. As you probably see throughout the internet, cauliflower in place of potatoes is one way to accomplish that task. So, I’d like share my version of a simple Low Carb Cottage Pie, using cauliflower.
Wellness Tip: Reducing carbohydrates is beneficial for all of us since the prevalence of prediabetes and insulin resistance is approaching 80 million people in the United States. Research studies reveal a strong relationship between insulin resistance and dementia. Since, we all know loved ones with one or the other, it is wise to know how to combat this escalating chronic disease. Insulin resistance in synonymous with high cholesterol and elevated triglycerides both of which contribute to oxidative stress on our cells. Especially, the cognitive area of the brain. {1} Therefore, taking measures to reduce oxidative stress is wise for all of us. We can do that by eating a primarily plant based diet (80%) reducing daily sugar consumption, and lowering starchy vegetables and grains. This Low-Carb Cottage Pie is a start!
The difference between a Shepherds’ Pie and a Cottage Pie is the meat. I’m using lean ground beef for this instead of lamb. To make it even easier, I’m adding a bag of frozen chopped vegetables. Making things easier to prepare helps me stay on track with healthier eating throughout the week. I want preparing meals to be easier for you, too.
The other area that I want to be easier for you, is trusting God. His word declares an account of His provision and love. I am encouraged today, knowing He loves me and provides for me and my family. I’m sure the two of us can look back during times of distress and see where He walked beside us. We can take comfort today as He continues to shepherd us through trying times:
The Lord is the strength of His people; He is a stronghold of salvation for His anointed.Save Your people, bless Your possession, shepherd them, and carry them forever.
2 12 oz Bags Frozen Cauliflower or One Whole Head Fresh
1 1lb Lean Ground Beef/Chicken or Turkey
1 12 oz Bag Mirepoix Blend Vegetables (Or 1/2 cup each chopped onion, celery, 1 cup carrots).
2 Cups Beef Broth
3 Tbsp. Flour
1 Tbsp. No Salt Spice Blend
4-6 oz Heavy Cream
Preheat oven to 375 Degrees
Place the cauliflower in a 8×8 dish and bake covered with foil until tender, about 30-40 minutes
Meanwhile, sauté' ground meat in a large skillet until brown, add the vegetables, cover and simmer until the vegetables are tender. Mix the 2 cups of cold broth to a mixing cup and add the flour, mix thoroughly. Pour the broth/flour bend into the ground beef and vegetables and simmer About 20 min.
When the cauliflower is done, place it in a blender, add 1 tsp. of no salt spice blend (or your season to your taste with salt and pepper) and add 4 ounces of the cream blend until it's smooth. If you need more cream add an ounce at a time as needed.
Place the ground meat mixture into the 8×8 dish and cover with the creamed cauliflower. Bake about 10-15 minutes., then serve. Refrigerate any leftovers, they'll be good for 4-5 days depending on your space in the fridge.
Have a wonderful day and remember, what’s in the garden is good!
References:
Maciejczyk M, Żebrowska E, Chabowski A. Insulin Resistance and Oxidative Stress in the Brain: What’s New? International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2019; 20(4):874. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20040874
Low Sugar, Orange Creamsicle Cake Roll
Rest assured, you and I don’t have to panic when emotional eating creates cravings. Especially with this low sugar, orange creamsicle cake roll around. I’ve seen the images of sugar hitting the pleasure region of the brain on CT scans. So, I know how enjoyable and addictive it is.
However, when I had an emotional day last week, coming off a sugar fast, I didn’t want to completely blow my good behavior… Strange thoughts like Twinkies started intruding on my weak feelings. Really?! I haven’t had a Twinkie in probably twenty years. Close to the shelf-life of those deplorable things. Nope, I can’t do that.
With the temptation of Twinkies off the palate, I began to think about orange cupcakes. You know those ones with the thick orange icing on top? So, even though I dodged a Twinkie, I couldn’t stop thinking about orange cupcakes. No, that is not going to work either. Rehashing good sweets and really bad sweets is the kind of battle I face in my weak moments. My friend, it is also how food lovers create new things and try to make them better. Well, better for us anyway.
What is it about sugar that just reaches that pleasure spot in the brain? I’ve enjoyed my time in God’s word every single morning. Enjoyed it well, I promise you. I sat happily immersed in the comfort, peace, and strength only He can bring. At the same time, I still wanted that orange cake. Jesus reminded me in His word….
No, He doesn’t give like the world gives. My heart “must not be troubled”. I know he wasn’t talking to me. He was telling the disciples He was going to die. Something He had to do, so all of us can live. They weren’t taking it well. In fact, they were handling it as poorly as me losing a loved ones respect.
So, the one thing I can tell you is, this low sugar, orange cream sickle cake roll did NOT soothe the ache in my heart. Only good humbling sorrow in the arms of Jesus can do that. However, it sure did taste good. Now, the first time I made it, I zested my orange, and began to place half of the orange into a bowl. As I thought about my pumpkin roll and the amount of pumpkin in it, I realized there was not enough substance to this orange pulp. Spying the butternut squash on the stove, I liked the color and thought it might be like other squash and take on the flavors of the things combined with it.
So, I thought, “Why not?” Maybe the butternut flavor will be mild to minimal with a lot of orange zest. It was actually pretty good, I used 2/3 cup just like I do with the pumpkin roll, and it made the cake a pretty light orange color. However, it was too dense and heavy. So I made it again, with just 1/3 cup of butternut squash and ….bingo! It’s so good.
Now, no low sugar creamsicle cake roll is as comforting as Jesus, of course…but it’s still hits a sweet spot to soothe to my sore emotions. Best of all, when taken in small slices, there is no guilt.
Low Sugar Orange Creamsicle Cake Roll
3 Large Cage Free Eggs
1/3 Cup Organic Sugar plus 1 scoop pure stevia
1/3 Cup Fully Cooked Butternut Squash
1/2 Fresh Orange Pulp
1 tbsp Orange Zest
1/2 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
1 Cup Organic Unbleached Flour
1/2 Teaspoon Baking Powder
1/4 Teaspoon Salt
Cream Cheese Filling
1 8oz Block of Cream Cheese
1/2 Fresh Orange Pulp (remove the white stuff)
1/2 teaspoon Pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon Orange zest
3 Tbsp. Organic Powdered Sugar
Preheat oven to 375.
Beat eggs, squash, orange pulp, orange zest, vanilla, sugar and stevia mixture until fluffy. Add the flour and baking powder and continue to blend well. Set aside.
Prepare a 9 x13 baking sheet or jelly roll pan with lightly greased butter. Place parchment paper over the baking sheet and lightly grease the top with butter. Add the batter and spread it evenly, bake for 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, lightly sprinkle a dish towel with powdered sugar.
When the cake is done, carefully turn onto the dish towel. Cover and gently roll into a tight roll. Place it in the freezer for 15 minutes.
As the cake is cooling, combine softened cream cheese, remaining orange pulp and zest, vanilla and powdered sugar in a bowl. Whip until smooth and creamy.
When the cake is cooled, unroll it and apply the cream cheese filling. Roll it up as tight as you can and sprinkle with powdered sugar. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.
I hope you like it as much as the hubby and I do! Remember, what God put in the garden is good! And if we give Him half the chance, He soothes the soul too!
Garden Veggies and Black-Eyed Peas
I wonder sometimes why they call these beans peas. Although, they are in the legume family, they have no relation to the peas. However, don’t let that stop you from soaking, rinsing, and stewing them with some garden veggies. This savory garden veggie and Black Eyed Pea stew is well worth the time and effort of soaking and simmering. Not only is it low calorie, it is loaded with nutrients.
So, if you’re looking for a substantial amount of folate, fiber, magnesium, potassium, and zinc, you’ve picked the right legume. Pair this with carrots, onion, garlic, and spinach and you have a strong start to strengthening your heart! In the meantime, you’ll also be meeting your daily energy needs. Check out additional benefits of this hearty legume Here.
And don’t forget, strengthen your heart with God’s word each day too!
Lord, You have heard the desire of the humble; You will strengthen their hearts. You will listen carefully, doing justice for the fatherless and the oppressed so that men of the earth may terrify them no more. Psalm 10:17-18
Garden Veggies & Black-eyed Peas
1 16 oz bag Dry Black Eyed Peas
4 Cups Water
2 Cups Vegetable Broth
1 Large Onion
3 Cloves Garlic Minced
2 Carrots Chopped
1 Cup Fresh Spinach
2 Teaspoons Cumin
2 Teaspoons Thyme
1 Teaspoon Each Salt and Pepper
Rinse and soak beans according to package directions. Rinse again. Place in a large soup pot and bring to a boil with four cups of water. Simmer one hour, then add spices, salt and pepper, carrots, onions, and garlic. Simmer another hour until beans are done. Chop spinach leaves and add just before serving.
Enjoy!
Staying on track with a focused plan to heal the heart physically and spiritually will bless those around you for years to come! Hang in there because you and your family are worth it! You can start with meals like this Garden Veggie and Black-eyed Pea stew.
