Katie's Kitchen

Okay so here are a couple things that we have tried this week....
FIRST OFF this has been a very frustrating week for me- BUT I am on the up and up and doing a couple of these meals has helped me realize YET again that we can eat really yummy foods just modified a little. I am still learning how to mix the correct foods but anyways here are a couple of our favs:
1- Simple Stuffed Shells
So my hubby and I are both training for some big races this summer so carbs/proteins are really important to us! Pasta is a family fav so just learning how to eat it healthy. Here is what the original recipe calls for- and then I will tell you my version....

24oz Cottage Cheese  (KATIE- stay the same we LOVE cottage cheese!)
1/4 C Parmesan cheese- grated (KATIE we just sprinkle on top)
1 t garlic powder 
2 eggs
S & P
12 oz lg pasta shells UNCOOKED (KATIE- I actually use Penne Pasta now- whole grain. Any type works but it is fun to have different types each time! We also have been 1/2 the recipe)
1 C spinach leaves torn (KATIE- I double this or more- we have added all sorts of different veggies too!)
14 oz can diced Italian tomatoes (KATIE- I hate tomatoes but this gives it a yummy taste you could probably add home grown tomatoes to X-out any processed stuff!)
14 oz jar spaghetti sauce (KATIE- again use Organic or I have even left this out!)
2 c shredded mozzarella cheese  (KATIE- used to be our favorite topping now we either leave off or again just sprinkle on top)

***Combined first 5 items in a  small bowl mix well. Spoon into shells (or just place on top of pasta) Use 13X9 pan tuck spinach into between shells; pour tomatoes and spaghetti sauce on top- make sure all pasta is covered. Cover with aluminum foil; bake at 375* for 30 mins uncover and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese bake another 15 mins or until cheese is melted. Serves 6

Another idea:
Crock pot or grill chicken breasts and get creative with the fixings- we have used honey, VERY LIGHT soy sauce, salsa, chopped tons of fresh veggies and just let them cook a couple hours etc! We have chicken at least 2 night a week and love thinking of new ways to make it, while staying some what healthy!!!
Add some steamed broccoli or beans
or whole wheat pasta a fantastic dinner super easy and fast!

Lastly:
Salads are a huge part of staying on a healthy diet. I did so well last year- eating salads 2-3x a day! I am starting that again but just having the same old stuff KILLS me so here are a couple topping I have found to spice up a boring salad
LEMON JUICE!!!- Now I REFUSE to give up Ranch at any cost- if I am doomed to be fat forever because of it... So be it! I love ranch! BUT I have found if I put some lemon juice on the lettuce I only use a tiny bit of ranch! AND ALWAYS ON THE SIDE.
Chopped up apples, strawberries, blueberries, oranges- fruit has an amazing way of adding a delightful flavor!
Nuts- not a huge fan, but they help add texture.
Cottage cheese on the side
Brown Rice- adding something hot with it helps
Hard boiled egg...MMMM and some times imitation crab (only on special occasions!)