Homemade crispy kale chips are a delicious, tasty treat consisting of very few ingredients. One of the easiest recipes that pack a powerhouse of health benefits.
With fall foods showing up at the farmers markets, you may find an abundance of kale in your community, at the local farm or in your garden. I planted kale early spring and it’s been flourishing through the seasons since. With so much kale to enjoy from my own backyard, I have been enjoying it in salads, soups and alone- such as this tasty treat.
Kale chips can become soggy, so it’s recommended that you cook them on lower temps for a longer duration of time. Once baked, they store well in an air tight container and typically last up to a week long. Though I can never keep them that long because I LOVE them as a healthy snack.
Kale is one of the healthiest greens and a veggie loaded with antioxidants (which help remove unwanted toxins). Kale contains calcium, a variety of vitamins and fiber. Did you know that eating a cup of kale packs a punch of over 200% of your daily Vitamin A and 134% of Vitamin C? Vitamins that help support the body, reduce inflammation and support the immune system as we head into the colder seasons. Even more of a reason to enjoy this nutrient packed snack during the fall season.
With all of the health benefits, detoxification support and immune boosting benefits, this tasty treat is one I think may become a staple in your kitchen or pantry this fall and winter.
Crispy Kale Chips
Ingredients:
1 large bunch kale
1 tablespoon coconut oil
Sea salt to taste
Directions:
Preheat oven to 275 degrees F.
Wash and dry kale completely. Remove stalks and tear leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place the pieces of kale into a mixing bowl and lightly coat with coconut oil and sea salt (or seasoning). Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes. Flip each leaf and bake for another 5-10 minutes or until edges are crisp. Serve or store (once cooled) in an air tight container.
Note: I use garlic powder in place of salt but you can use any seasoning you desire.
It’s the last day of the year and many of us are making “resolutions” for the New Year ahead. Have you thought about the goals you want to achieve in 2017? Do you worry about them sticking or how they will play out? So many people make resolutions for the New Year but quickly fall back into their old habits. That’s why I am sharing these Top 5 Tips for Making Your New Year’s Resolutions Stick.
1. Make Sure Your Goals Are Clearly Defined
I was that gal who made resolutions and jumped into the New Year with enthusiasm and excitement. I set goals that were often times black and white. They left me feeling frustrated when I didn’t accomplish them. Now I set clear, attainable goals with a better plan and mindset. I also write them down. The pen and paper can be pretty powerful. Don’t just think about it. Write it down!
Create specific, challenging but sustainable and “doable” goals. Set goals with a positive mindset and clear path. Break them down into action steps that don’t seem painful to think about. A positive mindset will play a huge part in your success. If you hit a roadblock or your plan changes, allow for some flexibility and adjustment. You don’t have to give up. Just alter the plan a bit.
2. Scratch the Idea of Instant Gratification
So many people want everything right now! Instant gratification may sound great, but often times, the process and journey is what really creates us. Yes, you may hit some roadblocks and frustrations along the way, but it’s not always a bad thing. Instead of looking at a goal as a pain in the ass, hard to accomplish task, think of it as a path to a more incredible YOU!
The concept of instant gratification often leads to procrastination, self-sabotage, stress, anxiety and frustration. To break free from the “instant gratification desire,” know what you want, create a community to support you, plan for “success celebrations” that keep you focused and anticipate road blocks along the way. Remember, the journey may reveal some pretty amazing things! Have patience, my dear.
3. Get Up When You Think You’ve Slipped Up
I’ve touched on road blocks a few times because it’s highly possible that you’ve experience some of your own. I am sure you will experience many more down the road. That doesn’t mean you need to throw in the towel and give up.
Instead of beating yourself up and giving up on your goals, throw on those big girl stilettos and keep doing your thing. Tell that negative voice in your head to go away and keep working towards your goals! Our mindset plays a huge part in our success, and it’s something that we need to be aware of on a daily basis. If you want those goals, keep going after them. Even when things don’t go according to plan. Remember, you may have to change direction but don’t give up! ?
4. Share Your Goals
Sharing your goals with others has many benefits. Accountability and community help us a great deal when we are trying to accomplish goals. If you share your goals with others, you will be more inclined to stick to them. In addition, the support from others helps when you’ve hit a roadblock or feel like giving up.
You may find that you share similar goals with others. Maybe you have a friend who is looking to lose some weight this year. Maybe you want to clean out things in your life and make room for things that serve you better. Maybe you’ve thought about hiring a coach or finding a positive support system.
Having others to talk to and share experiences with can really help. You may find more clarity as well. Don’t be afraid to share. It will help you along the journey.
5. Make Time (Not Excuses)
How many times do you say you’re too busy to do something? Your day may be filled with work, the kiddos, carpool, commitments with friends, planning your meals and squeezing in some time for you (If you’re even making it).
Yes, we are all busy! Time goes by rather quickly during the day, but this is where planning is key! Maybe you need to carve out some extra time in the morning or evening. Consider switching up some current activities (especially those that do not serve you well). Maybe for once, you need to make that time for you! Ladies, it’s not selfish. I know I say this all of the time, but it’s so true!
Instead of making up a bunch of excuses, make time. What activity can you add to your schedule that you enjoy? Who can you ask to join you? Start small and be easy on yourself. Talk to your family and ask them for support. If something comes up, it’s OK! Create additional space in your calendar. Also, drop the guilt!
It’s pretty incredible the things you can accomplish when you make these simple changes and others.
When it comes to your goals this New Year, I encourage you to try some of these tips. They’ve been a game changer in my life, and I want you to experience the same. If you’ve found these tips (or others) helpful, I would love to hear about it. I welcome you to comment below or message me.
if you’re looking to accomplish goals this year and want some help and accountability, i welcome you to contact me. setting clear goals, having accountability and finding a good support system help pave a solid path to success.
As we head into 2017, I wish you an incredible year! A year filled with much happiness, love, light and health.
