Recipes

Here’s a bird eye’s view into my life this past week – papers and post-its everywhere, literally everywhere; waking up way too early and staying up way too late staring at my computer; happy neighbors welcoming mountains of leftover treats; and the Beach Boys playing the background. It’s been chaos, but the good happy chaos that ensues before any vacation. Today I am headed out to Puerto Vallarta for a wedding and then to a little beach town called Sayulita for a week of sun, surf camp (eek!), relaxation, and likely eating my own body weight in chips.

The recipes and meal plans are all scheduled and ready to go, but I may be a bit slower when responding to email and comments. I have a hard time disconnecting completely, even on vacation, but am going to do my best to stay away from the computer as much as possible. So since all I can think about it the beach at this moment (and the fact that I still haven’t packed or cleaned my house) I thought it would be fun to share some recipes to bring a little sunshine into your home since we can’t have it outside. Put on the Beach Boys, break out the grill, and pretend for the moment it’s warm and sunny.

1. Ceviche, 3 points plus
I love this simple and low point Ceviche recipe made with fresh fish, lots of citrus juice, and veggies. It is perfect on it’s own by the spoonful, scooped up with some baked tortilla chips, or as a tostada with some black beans, cabbage slaw, and avocado, which is my personal favorite.

2. Fish Tacos with Avocado Cream, 5 points plus
These fish tacos are incredibly quick and easy to make. They come together in just minutes and can easily transport to a beach somewhere. They also make a great meal for anyone observing Lent and looking for more fish dishes.

3. Cowboy Turkey Burgers, 6 points plus
Summer usually means grilling, so why not clean the snow off the grill (or grab a grill pan) and cook up some burgers. These turkey burgers, studded with cheese and jalapenos, make a great quick dinner that will bring back memories of summer.

4. Slow Cooker Jerk Chicken, 4 points plus
Although most of us don’t use our slow cookers too often in the summer, this Jerk Chicken recipe reminds me of summer with its Caribbean inspiration. Toss it all in the crockpot and when you get home have a yummy, sweet, and spicy meal. The leftovers also make delicious enchiladas.

5. Mango Sorbettos, 0-1 points plus
Last but not least is a favorite summer dessert that can work equally well in the winter, especially since I have started to see mangoes on sale at every market nearby. You can make this recipe with almost any fruit and it is the perfect frozen dessert after any meal.