Spring Break is near and relaxation and sunshine are on the agenda for most. Fun in the sun can be a nice workout so fuel your body with good foods. It is that time of year to spring clean your diet.
Say goodbye to winter comfort foods and welcome spring and its fresh flavors and bright colors.
Although it can be hard to maintain healthy habits while having fun on the mini vacation, be sure to pack good eating habits along with your beach attire.
Healthy eating is simply just eating smart, especially during the warmer seasons. Spending the majority of Spring Break being active will require a boost in your energy, so foods that are full of vitamins and protein area great choice.
I shared my recipe that is full of both protein and energy-boosting vitamins. The Citrus Spring Chicken is loaded with vitamin C because of the orange and lime juice. Using the zest of the peels offers an abundance of vitamins A, C, B5 and B6, which transforms the food into energy. The chicken, of course, on its own is full of protein. Pair it with veggies and the number goes up. Use your judgment.
Making healthy choices more frequently prevents unhealthy crash diets right before Spring Break. Remember to stay hydrated; cocktails do not count. As the weather gets warmer, drinking enough water is very important.
It is very easy to get dehydrated when spending a lot of time in the sun. Water is a great pick, but there are foods that are contributors to hydration as well.
Cantaloupe, watermelon, berries, oranges and tomatoes, just to name a few, can benefit.
Have a fun, healthy and safe Spring Break; eat well and stay hydrated.
Desiree Arnold/Foghorn
Citrus chicken served with freshly steamed carrots, cashew rice medley and chicken breasts topped with oranges and a lime is a dish to dive into this Spring Break.
Citrus Spring Chicken
INGREDIENTS: 4 chicken breasts
1 large orange (zest and juiced) 4 limes (zest and juiced)
1 cup cilantro (chopped)
2 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoon garlic (chopped or minced) 4 tablespoon soy sauce
1⁄2 cup honey
SUGGESTION:
Pair with veggies and rice
*(I paired with steamed fresh carrots and a lime, dates and cashew rice medley)
STEPS:
1. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees
2. In bowl zest and juice orange and limes 3. Whisk in soy sauce, honey and cilantro 4. Heat oil
5. Add in garlic
6. Brush chicken with the citrus marinade (on both sides) 7. Sear chicken on each side (3 min)
8. Place seared chicken in baking pan
9. Pour remaining marinade over chicken
10. Cover and bake 20 min
11. Enjoy!
Yields: 4
Cost: $2.56 per serving
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