Avocado Hummus Recipe

Hummus is a natural, vegan food than can pair well with nearly any diet. The main  ingredient in Hummus are Chickpeas, which are an excellent source of fiber. You can find countless Hummus variations in stores, but I prefer the taste of fresh, homemade Hummus. As much as I enjoy, Hummus, I also enjoy avocados, which are full of healthy fats and have numerous health benefits, such as lowering cholesterol, lowering blood pressure, and improving overall heart health. I have paired the two together for a delicious, healthy, gluten-free snack which is far more tastier than any store bought Hummus.

INGREDIENTS

1/2 lb cooked chickpeas, drained
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
4 tbsp fresh lemon juice
3 tbsp Tahini
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 cup low-fat plain yogurt
1 large avocado

PREPARATION

1. Cut avocado in half, and remove pit.
2. Drain beans and rinse until water runs clear. Puree beans and garlic in a food processor.
3. Add remaining ingredients and process until smooth and creamy. Add more salt and/or lemon juice if desired.
4. Transfer to a container, cover and chill until ready to serve.

Tuna Stuffed -Tomato Recipe

When it comes to healthy eating, canned tuna has it all- It is packed full of protein and is low in fat and calories. Tuna is an excellent source of essential omega 3-fatty acids, which research has shown decreases the risk of abnormal heartbeats, which can lead to sudden death. Omega-3 fatty acids also play a key role in decreasing triglyceride levels (cholesterol), slow growth of atherosclerotic plaque, and lower blood pressure.

Protein will help fill you up faster and you will stay full longer. Here is a very quick and easy recipe that is great for a mid- morning or afternoon snack,  lunch, or even dinner.


INGREDIENTS
2 Roma Tomatoes, halved
1/4 Cup Canned Tuna in Water, drained
1 Teaspoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Ground Pepper, to taste
Sea Salt, to taste
2 Teaspoons Sliced Fresh Chives

PREPARATION

1. In a small bowl, add your drained tuna, olive oil, salt and pepper and stir until all ingredients are well mixed.
2. Scoop out the insides of your tomatoes with a melon baller.
3. Fill with tuna and top with chives. Add more salt and/ or pepper if desired.

Another favorite recipe of mine is my Spicy Southern Tuna Boats or S.S Tuna :)  Tuna tastes great alone, but it's always more fun to find foods to fill it with!

If you prefer a little spice in your Tuna, try adding Tony Chachere's Original Creole Seasoning. I honestly use this on every entree I eat. Another nice alternative to this recipe is adding a few sprinkles of your favorite cheese to the top. Then, place your tuna- stuffed tomatoes in the oven and broil for 1-2 minutes.

Tuesday's Tasty Treats - Cheddar Chicken

Growing up, my mother tried to teach me to cook, but I insisted I could live off of Ramen Noodles forever. If my family would let me, I would probably cook them every night. My husband would wither away if all I cooked was Ramen Noodles. I am not creative in the kitchen and I prefer to cook meals that are quick and easy. One of those quick meals is a simple, yet scrumptious coated chicken.


Ingredients

• 1 cup crushed Special K / Cornflakes cereal
• 6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
• 1/8 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup butter, melted

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees
2. Add cornflakes to a large ziplock bag and crush until flakes.
3. Mix cornflakes, parmesan cheese and cheddar cheese.
4. Dip the chicken breasts in melted butter, then roll in the cornflake crumb mixture.
5. Place chicken in a lightly greased baking dish.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 - 40 minutes, until juices run clear.

Enjoy!