The Art of the Mason Jar

Convenience plays a large role in my daily routine. I joke sometimes that my purse is a suitcase, because it is large and in charge! I just like to feel prepared. Every morning I "get ready for the day." This means regardless of the day, rain or shine, plans or no plans, I always make an effort to get myself together, because it makes me feel good. Do something everyday that makes you feel good. Maybe it's an early morning spin class or a meditation yoga class. By starting your day off right, you're setting the tone for your day, and I promise you, it will be a good day if you make it a good day! 

Being prepared makes all the difference when it comes to healthy food choices. Between our busy daily routines and juggling X, Y and Z throughout the day, sometimes running to the nearest fast casual restaurant or deli to pick up a bite to eat is easier and more convenient than prepping ahead. Being prepared with sometime to eat before you become starving and want to eat everything in sight makes all the difference to your health and nutrition. 

I've found that using mason jars to prep food ahead and organize for a couple of days makes a really easy "grab and go" in your own home. Not to mention, people will comment because it actually looks pretty cool too! 

If your mornings are busy prep a greek yogurt berry bowl in a mason jar and take it to go. For lunch or a snack, layer power veggies in a mason jar with a little dressing on the side. Simple Easy and nutritious!

#1. Morning Glory Bowl

1/2 cup blueberries

1/2 cup strawberries

1/2 cup 0% Greek Yogurt

1/4 cup all natural (gluten-free optional) granola

1 teaspoon pure honey

Directions - Layer ingredients in a mason jar, drizzle honey on top and enjoy. 

#2. You're a Peach

1 small peach diced

1/2 cup 0% Greek Yogurt

1/4 cup pistachios

1 teaspoon all natural honey

Directions - Layer all ingredients in mason jar and enjoy. 

Veggie Jars

Create your bowl 1/4 cup each.

Corn

Carrots

Quinoa

Black Beans

Kidney Beans

Celery

Tomatoes

Lima Beans

Mushrooms

Kale

Arugula

Lettuce

Dressing: 

2 Tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar

2 Tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar

1 teaspoon dijon mustard

salt and pepper to taste

Directions - Layer selected veggies in a mason jar and mix in dressing when you're ready to eat and enjoy!

"Fall in Love with Taking Care of Yourself"

Morning Kick Starter!

Spring is on its way! We've all gotten cozy and bundled behind our coats, but it seems as though now is probably a good time to start planning for that lighter, healthier, body.

Here's a great low-sugar, cold-pressed juice I do every morning to start my day off right. It's energizing, great for your skin and overall total body. What could be better than that? Just a quick, fresh juice in the morning will give you loads of nutrients, fill you up, and give you the energy to start your day off right. Plus, you'll curb all those pastries and sugary delights first thing in the morning! Don't worry, one for dessert later won't hurt ;)

Morning Kick Starter 

1 Green Apple

1 Bunch Kale

2 Handful Spinach

4 Celery Stalks

1/2 Lemon

1 slice Watermelon

Hope this morning juice becomes a part of your routine as it is mine! Don't forget to experiment with other fresh vegetables and fruits that you like. Your local farmer's market is a great place to see what's in season and how you can add a little spin to your favorite morning juice or smoothie. Enjoy!

-Chef K

Summer Salads

When it’s sunny out, sometimes there’s nothing better than having a crisp, fresh, tasty salad. I’m sure we can all agree that we are all also preparing for our bikini summer bodies too! Whether you’re making them at home, or dining out, some of the best salads don’t have any leaves at all! A huge favorite of mine is our Insalate di Stagione. I take warm, sweet beets and other vegetables like carrots, sprouts, and mushrooms, and cook them ever so slightly to keep them still nice and crisp. The vibrant colors are beautiful too! So now you have this base of gorgeous, fresh, healthy vegetables all packed with flavor just waiting to be dressed up. This is the best part…simple reduced balsamic vinaigrette gets drizzled all over them. It’s thick, sweet, and has that pure, deep balsamic taste that we all love. Next I shred some slices of ricotta salata cheese to top it off. This is a hard ricotta cheese, that is slightly salty and gives the salad that nice bite. To jazz it up even more, I plate it in a Parmesan crust bowl. I know…amazing right?! Altogether it’s just fresh, crisp, warm, sweet, salty, crunchy, and perfect in every bite! Best of all, it is so simple to make. So that’s my summer salad tip for the day! Try making your version at home, or come visit us at Bocca di Bacco! Enjoy!

-Kristin