 For the love of a healthy smoothie! -AC Art Of Food Today’s Health Smoothie Tip: ‘Less is BEST!’ Often times we have great intentions on starting, and most importantly, sticking to a good healthy eating routine. So let’s talk smoothies. What an awesome opportunity to toss all the beneficial elements into a one-stop-shop, cool, and refreshing drink...right? WRONG! Loading your blender with ‘all the things’ will absolutely take you above and beyond your ideal daily calorie allowance, defeating your healthy weight goals. So of course, AC Art Of Food is helping you take the guesswork out of healthFUL smoothing! 😜 These *4 Smoothie Elements* will ensure your blend is healthy, delicious, and calorie maintainable:
 Excellent boosts, both spirulina and chlorella! -AC Art Of Food 🌞Today’s Morning Rise Smoothie: 1- spinach 2- mixed frozen berries 3- lime 4- spirulina ...DELISH! Great Eats & Healthy Living! 😋 ❓What’s in your favorite blend?
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  ACAOF Maple Nut Granola! #Yummy |  |  |  |
First fruit, vegetables, and herbs planted in the spring, AC Art Of Food
Herbs are such a beautiful accent to all-season dishes and are just as delicious by themselves as salads and in pestos. With the warmer months dedicated to the initial planting season for herbs, primarily because of their delicate structures, the mind wonders if it's at all possible to even grow, let alone, tend to such tender leaves in the colder seasons.
The answer: YES!
The answer: YES!
Let potted herbs save your winter, AC Art Of Food
Now let's first start with which herbs are ideal for growing and harvesting in cooler weather:
- Chives
- Cilantro
- Lavender
- Mint
- Parsley (flat Italian or curled)
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Thyme
Hanging herbs after harvesting is a great and aromatic way to dry delicious herbs, AC Art Of Food
Planting these precious greens in the colder months is really no different from growing them in the hotter months with the obvious exception of colder temps. Indoor/outdoor, in the ground or in pots, the biggest and obvious minor tweak is protecting the leaves during a frost. If you choose outdoors and in-ground for your herb landscape, you will need to apply a fleece-type covering when the weather threatens frost.
The great and convenient advantage of planting in containers is that when the temperature drops, you can simply and easily bring them inside- plus their delicious fresh aroma fills your space acting as a natural air freshener!
Now, what to do with these herbs in the coming months?
The great and convenient advantage of planting in containers is that when the temperature drops, you can simply and easily bring them inside- plus their delicious fresh aroma fills your space acting as a natural air freshener!
Now, what to do with these herbs in the coming months?
CHIVES
With their mild onion flavor, chives are awesome as a topping to a hot steamy baked potato, mixed with your cream cheese as a spread, and a delicious topping to roasted veggies and meat/meal-like proteins. -AC Art Of Food
CILANTRO
This bright fresh blood cleansing herb is an obvious compliment to many Latin inspired dishes, soups, and stews. But cilantro is also great to brighten your smoothies! -AC Art Of Food
LAVENDER
This purple majesty has a calming effect and comforting flavor that's perfect steeped as a tea. Lavender adds a great as a twist to homemade cane sugar cookies, as well as an essential ingredient in many homeopathic treatments. -AC Art Of Food
MINT
Refreshing and soothing, mint is ideal steeped as a tea to ease cold and flu symptoms. It brightens and is delicious in salads. And if a tummy ache is brewing, chewing a leaf or two is known to help ease the ache. -AC Art Of Food
PARSLEY
Once only recognized as the consummate garnish, Parsley's benefits are finally being recognized and used in smoothies, salads, wraps, spreads, and is an excellent breath freshener. -AC Art Of Food
ROSEMARY
This deep, earthy, and rich herb is superb in crockpot stews, soups, and baked in breads. This woodsy herb is also amazing in roasting autumn root-veggies like potatoes, acorn squash, and turnips. -AC Art Of Food
SAGE
This fuzzy flat-leaf herb when dried and burned cleanses and purifies the air in your home. Sage has deep earthy notes similar to that of rosemary, and is not only great in soups and stews, but is the traditional kick often found in sausage. This leaf can also be steeped in a pan to infuse olive oil and/or butter. -AC Art Of Food
THYME
Thyme is a delicious and versatile herb that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Perfect for stuffing whole fish and roasting with potatoes and other veggies. From soups and stews, to syrups and scones, thyme is a magnificent addition to your autumn herb garden. -AC Art Of Food
ACAOF'S
NON-DAIRY FRESH AUTUMN HERB BUTTER
- 2 cups non-dairy butter, softened (earth balance)
- 1 tbsp thyme, chopped
- 1 tbsp sage, chopped
- 1 tbsp rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp chives, chopped
Prep:
- Combine all above ingredients.
- Scoop herb butter into a container with sealed lid, preferably glass.
- Let set in fridge for at least 1 hour to firm.
- Enjoy on warm bread, add to sauces, mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, fish, etc.!
WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE HERB?
LET ME KNOW IN THE COMMENTS BELOW!
Plant Based Burger Battle- At Home, AC Art Of Food
Baybaaay, when I tell you!!!!! The Dr. Praeger's Perfect Burger is out here giving The Beyond Burgera WHOLE marathon-run for their money!! Let the Plant Based Burger Battle begin!
I stumbled across this amazing find while perusing the aisles of my local Costco. Now, one of my best girlfriends hipped me to Dr. Praeger's Spinach Cakes while in Cincinnati a few years ago and they were delicious by themselves as a side, but not on a bun. See, I don't particularly care for veggie patties that are of a bean and/or potato consistency. It feels too heavy on me like carb-on-carb. So the mimic of an animal-like texture protein patty, say that of a Beyond, Impossible, or my new discovery, Dr. Praeger's, is ideal!
Plant Based Burger Battle- At Home, AC Art Of Food
But I digress.
When perfectly seared by adding a bit of Abstract Spice on both sides to pefectly season and create a delicious crust, this 'burger' surpasses the Beyond Burger HANDS DOWN!! To my Beyond lovers, you know that greasy residue and strange scent that comes from the purchased frozen Beyond Burger patty once thawed? Well those two things tend to discourage some of the healthful eaters out here attempting to eliminate animal protein from their diet. Fortunately, the Dr. Praeger's burger is free of these unfortunate characteristics. No greasy residue, and no strange odor. This burger patty is similar in color and frozen when purchased, but is individually wrapped, unlike the 2-patty packaged Beyond. Both are similar in how they cook up, but the Dr. Praeger's patty has a texture SO much more similar to that of an animal protein burger, my hubby had to keep double checking to make sure he wasn't eating the turkey burgers by mistake!
What's more, the price for an 8-pack of these delicious soy and gluten free, 20g of pure protein packed, individually wrapped 'burgers' is approximately $12 a box! That's a good $1 cheaper per patty than that of The Beyond Burger!
When perfectly seared by adding a bit of Abstract Spice on both sides to pefectly season and create a delicious crust, this 'burger' surpasses the Beyond Burger HANDS DOWN!! To my Beyond lovers, you know that greasy residue and strange scent that comes from the purchased frozen Beyond Burger patty once thawed? Well those two things tend to discourage some of the healthful eaters out here attempting to eliminate animal protein from their diet. Fortunately, the Dr. Praeger's burger is free of these unfortunate characteristics. No greasy residue, and no strange odor. This burger patty is similar in color and frozen when purchased, but is individually wrapped, unlike the 2-patty packaged Beyond. Both are similar in how they cook up, but the Dr. Praeger's patty has a texture SO much more similar to that of an animal protein burger, my hubby had to keep double checking to make sure he wasn't eating the turkey burgers by mistake!
What's more, the price for an 8-pack of these delicious soy and gluten free, 20g of pure protein packed, individually wrapped 'burgers' is approximately $12 a box! That's a good $1 cheaper per patty than that of The Beyond Burger!
So if you're any where near a Costco, be sure to pick up a box of these AMAZING Dr. Praeger's Perfect Burger patties. Deliciously sensible, certified, kosher, sustainable, and vegan!
WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE PLANT BASED BURGER?
LET US KNOW BELOW AND TELL US HOW YOU TOP THEM!
*WARNING*
~ALL SMOOTHIES ARE NOT CREATED EQUAL~
*WARNING*
With all the buzz surrounding convenient healthy eating and drinking, It's no wonder smoothies are the main go-to for a quick and nourishing, portable meal- but What's Really in your Smoothie?
ALL SMOOTHIES ARE NOT CREATED EQUAL!
Many times, the well known brand 'health conscious' brick and mortars add astronomical amounts of sugar to their delicious smoothies defeating, instead of assisting, in healthFUL living. Now, the sugars aren't necessarily added sugars like additional honey, agave, or table sugar. These sugars reside in the syrups and juices that these fruits are packaged in. And for the nuttier smoothie menu options, they tend to be sweetened with more than 6 grams per serving of sugar- exceeding the standard serving size portion of natural nut butters found on the the shelves of your local grocer!
Long story short, the average calorie contents of a basic store-bought smoothie is upwards of 400+ calories with the sugar content easily exceeding 10-20 teaspoons! You might as well have cupcakes!
First, don't eat the cupcakes, lol!
Secondly, make it a point to invest in your health by investing in a quality blender and create your own healthy smoothies at home. Follow my Healthful Smoothie Tips tips below that will ensure you have a delicious and TRULY healthy smoothie, and not just a dessert with fruit!
ALL SMOOTHIES ARE NOT CREATED EQUAL!
Many times, the well known brand 'health conscious' brick and mortars add astronomical amounts of sugar to their delicious smoothies defeating, instead of assisting, in healthFUL living. Now, the sugars aren't necessarily added sugars like additional honey, agave, or table sugar. These sugars reside in the syrups and juices that these fruits are packaged in. And for the nuttier smoothie menu options, they tend to be sweetened with more than 6 grams per serving of sugar- exceeding the standard serving size portion of natural nut butters found on the the shelves of your local grocer!
Long story short, the average calorie contents of a basic store-bought smoothie is upwards of 400+ calories with the sugar content easily exceeding 10-20 teaspoons! You might as well have cupcakes!
First, don't eat the cupcakes, lol!
Secondly, make it a point to invest in your health by investing in a quality blender and create your own healthy smoothies at home. Follow my Healthful Smoothie Tips tips below that will ensure you have a delicious and TRULY healthy smoothie, and not just a dessert with fruit!
HEALTHFUL SMOOTHIE TIPS
- Choose a leafy green (ex., spinach and/or kale).
- Choose a plant based milk or a water (ex.,spring or coconut).
- Choose a fresh or frozen fruit for sweetness and nutrients.
- Add a natural sweetener to taste if necessary- the amount of sweetness you add will pale in comparison to that amount if purchased out. (ex.,agave, raw honey, 100% maple syrup, stevia).
- For a more 'electric' smoothie, add lime juice! (alkalines)
- Amp up your homemade smoothie with your favorite supplement and/or protein powder (hemp seeds, flax, and chia seeds are great nutritional additions as well).
'If you must purchase...'
Healthful smoothie tips
- MAKE YOUR OWN SMOOTHIES AT HOME!
- But if you must purchase:
- Choose smoothies with the least amount of ingredients- less is best!
- In addition, be sure you can pronounce and recognize the ingredients listed in your smoothie choice.
- ASK about healthier low calorie/sugar options. It's never a dumb question to ask if and when it concerns your health!
- AVOID artificial sweeteners and/or sugar-free options. These options simply add harmful chemicals to your body that do much more harm to the body.
- If you'd like to omit sugar all together, request 'no sugar added' instead.
Click here
what's your favorite smoothie combo to make at home?
*
What's your favorite smoothie to buy when you're out?
Let me know in the comments below!
Each week AC Art Of Food is sharing with you different healthFUL meal ideas that you can create and try out, and even share with friends and family!
THIS WEEK'S MEAL:
*Lemon Bowtie pasta w/ ROASTED BROCCOLI & MUSHROOMS*
LEMON BOWTIE PASTA W/ ROASTED BROCCOLI & MUSHROOMS
1. Season, toss together, and lay out evenly on a cooking oil sprayed pan the following ingredients.
Roast for 10-12 minutes until veggies are toasty brown.
Roast for 10-12 minutes until veggies are toasty brown.
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 pint mushrooms, sliced
2 tbsp Abstract Spice
2. In a large serving bowl, line the bowl with:
2 cups fresh spinach
3. In a separate bowl, combine with roasted veggies:
2 cups bowtie pasta- prepared per package instructions, in salted water
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup lemon juice + *1 whole lemon for slicing as garnish
sea salt & fresh cracked pepper to taste
1/2 cup green onions, sliced
4. Pour tossed pasta salad into spinach lined bowl. Top with lemon slices and additional green onions.
Enjoy!
WHAT DID YOU HAVE FOR DINNER THIS WEEK?
*
LET ME KNOW IN THE COMMENTS BELOW AND YOU MAY BE NEXT WEEK'S FEATURE!
Each week AC Art Of Food is sharing with you different healthFUL meal ideas that you can create and try out, and even share with friends and family!
this week's meal:
*QUICK & HealthFUL meatball sub*
ACAOF's Meal of the Week: Quick & HealthFUL Meatball Sub- AC Art Of Food
My intent with this was to repurpose some leftover tomato sauce I had on hand from Sunday's spaghetti and meatball extravaganza, mission accomplished!
But wait, what about the vegetarian in the family? See, I try to refrain from double-cooking and try more of a 'elevated' option. This case was no different. You see, I created two subs in one- one half meatball, the other meat-less ball! The result, everyone's happy....including me with my Quick & HealthFUL Meatball Sub!
This is a super easy and quick meal that served with a salad is truly a complete meal. You can truly make this sub whatever you want it to be- vegan, vegetarian, and meatFUL, lol! Thanks to Aldi's offering of meat-less Italian meatballs this meal is rated vegetarian- but you'd never guess it by the look or taste!
What's more, I also added my traditional 'sneaky' marinara (includes purre' carrots for extra veggies and added sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes), low-fat mozzarella cheese, and a super soft French bread loaf, in a matter of minutes- under 20 minutes to be exact, dinner was served.
You'll love this versatile supper-sandwich that's a perfect grab and go with very little clean up!
But hey, don't take my word for it- try it for yourself!
But wait, what about the vegetarian in the family? See, I try to refrain from double-cooking and try more of a 'elevated' option. This case was no different. You see, I created two subs in one- one half meatball, the other meat-less ball! The result, everyone's happy....including me with my Quick & HealthFUL Meatball Sub!
This is a super easy and quick meal that served with a salad is truly a complete meal. You can truly make this sub whatever you want it to be- vegan, vegetarian, and meatFUL, lol! Thanks to Aldi's offering of meat-less Italian meatballs this meal is rated vegetarian- but you'd never guess it by the look or taste!
What's more, I also added my traditional 'sneaky' marinara (includes purre' carrots for extra veggies and added sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes), low-fat mozzarella cheese, and a super soft French bread loaf, in a matter of minutes- under 20 minutes to be exact, dinner was served.
You'll love this versatile supper-sandwich that's a perfect grab and go with very little clean up!
But hey, don't take my word for it- try it for yourself!
quick & healthful meatball sub
On Med/High heat for 3 minutes sauté :
 2 tbsp olive oil |  1/2 onion, sliced thin |  2 pints sliced mushrooms |  1/2 tsp sea salt & pepper |
Stir in and cover lowering heat to Medium to simmer:
 1 jar marinara sauce |  2 tbsp Abstract Spice |  1/2 cup water |  1 package Aldi's meat-less meatballs |
Slice loaf in half and sprinkle 1/2 of the mozzarella on one half:
 1 loaf French loaf bread, halved |  16 oz. low-fat mozzarella, shredded |
Next:
- Add vegan meatball sauce to cheese half of sub.
- Coat the opposite side of the loaf with just sauce.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top of meatball side and close.
- Place in the oven on a sheet pan for approximately 10 minutes until cheese is melted.
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- Garnish with dried parsley and slice in sections for easy grabbing!
enjoy!
ACAOF's Meal of the Week: Quick & HealthFUL Meatball Sub- AC Art Of Food
What did you have for dinner this week?
*
let me know in the comments below and you may be next week's feature!
Each week AC Art Of Food is sharing with you different healthFUL meal ideas that you can create and try out, and even share with friends and family!
This week's meal:
*Corn, Shrimp & Kale Bisque*
ACAOF Meal of the Week: Corn, Shrimp & Kale Bisque- AC Art Of Food
I completely intended for this dish to be a chowder, but with the sweltering Georgia heat, I decided to thin it out a bit, lol!
The base of the bisque is completely vegan and the shrimp can easily be replaced with a plant based alternative protein to overhaul this as a complete vegan transformation.
The flavor of the below combined ingredients blend together perfectly with outstanding flavor and texture. A satisfying hearty soup, yet not too heavy to make you feel weighed down. The freshness of the raw kale, and pops of sweetness from the fresh corn sing a melody of deliciousness to any palate.
Allowing the shrimp to cook in the broth lends an authentic ease of preparation not negating from the true tenderness and full sea flavor that meld together perfectly in this bath of smooth scrumptious notes that dance on your tongue!
But hey, don't take my word for it- try it for yourself!
The base of the bisque is completely vegan and the shrimp can easily be replaced with a plant based alternative protein to overhaul this as a complete vegan transformation.
The flavor of the below combined ingredients blend together perfectly with outstanding flavor and texture. A satisfying hearty soup, yet not too heavy to make you feel weighed down. The freshness of the raw kale, and pops of sweetness from the fresh corn sing a melody of deliciousness to any palate.
Allowing the shrimp to cook in the broth lends an authentic ease of preparation not negating from the true tenderness and full sea flavor that meld together perfectly in this bath of smooth scrumptious notes that dance on your tongue!
But hey, don't take my word for it- try it for yourself!
corn, shrimp & kale bisque
In a Dutch Oven or Pot on Med/High heat:
 2 tbsp oil (olive, avocado, or grapeseed) |  2 tbsp vegan butter |
Sauté together for 4 minutes:
 Chopped onion  Chopped garlic cloves |  Chopped celery  2 tsp sea salt & 1 tsp fresh cracked pepper |
Sprinkle on sauté mixture to thicken and flavor:
 2 tbsp flour |  1/2 tsp nutmeg |
Gradually pour in:
 3 cups water |  1 cup almond milk (80-90 calorie) |
Season liquid base with:
2 tbsp Abstract Spice
Add in, stir, and cover for 4 minutes:
 4 cups chopped kale |  2 cups corn kernels |  2 lbs medium raw, deveined, peeled shrimp |
Stir in and leave uncovered for 10 minutes on Med/Low heat:
1/2 cup dry sherry (chardonnay will work as a sub)
Garnish with:
 Chopped scallion greens |  Additional shrimp, roasted |
enjoy!
ACAOF Meal of the Week: Corn, Shrimp & Kale Bisque- AC Art Of Food
What did you have for dinner this week?
*
let me know in the comments below and
you may be
next week's feature!
Amazingly delicious and SUPER simple Grilled Potatoes- AC Art Of Food
Hubby decided to override my planned Sunday dinner of Salisbury steak and onions, mashed potatoes, and green beans for an impromptu mini cookout in the backyard. I wasn't too upset realizing that this meant I didn't have to do much work for dinner 😆.
But at the last minute when it was last call for the grill, I needed another side and thought how great a baked potato would be!
So I scrubbed some 'taters and threw them on the ol' barbie. That's when it crossed my mind of how tempting it would be to load these puppies up with butter, sour cream, and cheese even! Unfortunately, that's not exactly the route I've been committed to lately.
Then I remembered I'm not locked down to having a traditional baked potato, I'm AC of AC Art of Food! Let me do it with a healthy twist! And that I did!
Grabbing inspiration from my God Mom's recipe for her delicious Lemon & Parsley New Potatoes, I decided to create these beauties. Simple, light, and only around 6 ingredients. And remember, you can always make it your own!
After the grill and ready to be dressed- AC Art Of Food
Not your Typical Grilled Potato
recipe
ingredients:
 5 medium sized scrubbed baking potatoes |  1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil |
 1 tsp smoked paprika |  Juice from 1/2 a lemon |
 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese |  Favorite herbs like parsley, dill, and/or basil- chopped |
 Sea salt to taste |
the process:
- Place potatoes on top grill rack and cook for approximately 1 hour, or until center in tender and skin is crisped.
- With a towel securing the cooked potato and protecting hands from the heat, slice each potato forming 1/2 to 1 inch thick discs- it's OK if potato crumbles during slicing.
- Once all sliced potato discs are laying flat on your platter, drizzle with the extra virgin olive oil.
- Drizzle on lemon juice.
- Sprinkle on cheese, paprika, and parsley.
- Finish with pink salt to taste
- Place back on the grill rack until cheese is melted and serve.
Enjoy!
What other toppings would you try to make this recipe your own?
Let me know in the comments below and I'll give it a try!
It's summertime and the peaches are ripe!
And what better way to show appreciation for nature's goodness and merciful stone-fruit than with my succulent Georgia Peach Slow Cooker Turkey Thighs recipe!
🍑'Georgia' because I had a super ripe on on hand and threw a peach in for flavor!😜
This recipe guarantees a delicious and savory, mouth-watering-fall-off-the-bone experience you'll want to try again, and again, and AGAIN!
What makes this even better is that preparing this and other meals in the slow cooker doesn't emit much heat which makes it perfect for summer cooking!
And what better way to show appreciation for nature's goodness and merciful stone-fruit than with my succulent Georgia Peach Slow Cooker Turkey Thighs recipe!
🍑'Georgia' because I had a super ripe on on hand and threw a peach in for flavor!😜
This recipe guarantees a delicious and savory, mouth-watering-fall-off-the-bone experience you'll want to try again, and again, and AGAIN!
What makes this even better is that preparing this and other meals in the slow cooker doesn't emit much heat which makes it perfect for summer cooking!
georgia peach slow cooker turkey thighs
ingredients:
 6 turkey thighs   1 peach, halved and pitted |  1 chopped carrot  1/2 onion, cut up  3 cloves of garlic |  1/4 cup Abstract Spice  1/8 cup olive oil  4 cups water |
preparation:
Throw it all in the slow cooker on high for 6 hours.
🍽
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Enjoy!
What deliciousness do you like to put in your slow cooker?
Let me know in the comments below for a chance to have your recipe featured on
ac art of food's recipe page!
*AC Art Of Food in NO way supports nor condones the abuse of drugs, however when used responsibly, cannabis holds many benefits and has been proven to have lifesaving affects.*
In honor of this green holiday, I found a recipe that incorporates the beneficial cannabis oil and a healthy sweet treat all at the same time!
But first, let me provide a bit of education for those out there a bit reluctant or all out against this flowering plant of the Cannabaceae family, when used responsibly that is.
Paraphrased from Wikipedia:
Cannabis, also known as marijuana among other names, is a psychoactive drug from the Cannabis plant used for medical or recreational purposes.
The main psychoactive part of cannabis is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
Cannabis can be used by smoking, vaporizing, within food, or as an extract.
Cannabis is also known as hemp, although this term is often used to refer only to varieties of Cannabis cultivated for non-drug use.
Cannabis has long been used for hemp fibre, hemp seeds and their oils, hemp leaves for use as vegetables and as juice, medicinal purposes.
Preliminary evidence suggests that cannabis can reduce nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy, improve appetite in people with HIV/AIDS, and reduce chronic pain and muscle spasms.
(www.wikapedia.com)
Below are just a few of the amazing benefits derived from cannabis:
Again, when used responsibly and as medicinal, cannabis is quite beneficial and a lifesaver to many. And like with anything used irresponsibly, this plant can be harmful- yet, there are no findings of cannabis having fatal effects.
But first, let me provide a bit of education for those out there a bit reluctant or all out against this flowering plant of the Cannabaceae family, when used responsibly that is.
Paraphrased from Wikipedia:
Cannabis, also known as marijuana among other names, is a psychoactive drug from the Cannabis plant used for medical or recreational purposes.
The main psychoactive part of cannabis is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
Cannabis can be used by smoking, vaporizing, within food, or as an extract.
Cannabis is also known as hemp, although this term is often used to refer only to varieties of Cannabis cultivated for non-drug use.
Cannabis has long been used for hemp fibre, hemp seeds and their oils, hemp leaves for use as vegetables and as juice, medicinal purposes.
Preliminary evidence suggests that cannabis can reduce nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy, improve appetite in people with HIV/AIDS, and reduce chronic pain and muscle spasms.
(www.wikapedia.com)
Below are just a few of the amazing benefits derived from cannabis:
- Fights cancer
- Fights depression and anxiety
- Helps in treating autism
- Seizure regulator
- Helps heal broken bones faster
- Aids in focus, concentration
- Glaucoma treatment
- Helps M.S. patients
- Can relieve pain and arthritis
- Eases nausea
- Helps with eating disorders
Again, when used responsibly and as medicinal, cannabis is quite beneficial and a lifesaver to many. And like with anything used irresponsibly, this plant can be harmful- yet, there are no findings of cannabis having fatal effects.
Now for the good stuff!
Epicurious has a delicious popcorn treat to satisfy your cravings in honor if today! This recipe combines a flavor combo for your palate that is sensational!
I mean really, sweet + savory + spicy + popcorn + weed... any objections?
This particular recipe in its current form is vegetarian, not vegan. However, to make this popcorn recipe completely vegan, swap the honey for agave.
If you're going to have the munchies anyway, might as well cut out the middle man and get it all in one. This recipe will seriously step up any basic Netflix & Chill evening!
Don't take my word for it, CLICK BELOW and try it out for yourself!
Epicurious has a delicious popcorn treat to satisfy your cravings in honor if today! This recipe combines a flavor combo for your palate that is sensational!
I mean really, sweet + savory + spicy + popcorn + weed... any objections?
This particular recipe in its current form is vegetarian, not vegan. However, to make this popcorn recipe completely vegan, swap the honey for agave.
If you're going to have the munchies anyway, might as well cut out the middle man and get it all in one. This recipe will seriously step up any basic Netflix & Chill evening!
Don't take my word for it, CLICK BELOW and try it out for yourself!
high honey-sriracha popcorn
*reciPe*
Photo- Teri Lyn Fisher/ Food Styling- Maria Fantaci, AC Art Of Food
Instead of buying prepackaged fruit cups and/or fruit in gel, try simply taking a few minutes to prepare fresh cut fruit in a large container for easy accessibility and serving.
Many of these prepared fruit snacks found on grocery shelves may be labeled as 'natural', and in most cases that's great, but nothing beats assembling your own to create a fresh fruit snack that you feel certain about and know that nothing extra has been added.
In addition, the natural snacks found in stores often contain artificial preservatives to assure freshness. Try my approach below and feel great about the all-natural alkaline preservative I recommend for your fresh fruit assembly.
You simply save so much and gain peace of mind with preparing your own food period.
In preparing your own fresh cut mixed fruit you:
Many of these prepared fruit snacks found on grocery shelves may be labeled as 'natural', and in most cases that's great, but nothing beats assembling your own to create a fresh fruit snack that you feel certain about and know that nothing extra has been added.
In addition, the natural snacks found in stores often contain artificial preservatives to assure freshness. Try my approach below and feel great about the all-natural alkaline preservative I recommend for your fresh fruit assembly.
You simply save so much and gain peace of mind with preparing your own food period.
In preparing your own fresh cut mixed fruit you:
- $ave money.
- Select your own fresh produce.
- Boost health and drop pounds with a healthy snack easily accessible and on hand.
- Peace of mind that you're serving the best to you and your family.
four (4) simple Steps to
preparing, storing, and enjoying
your own all-natural fresh mixed fruit:
1. Select your fruit
 Bananas (Promotes digestion and skin health and boosts energy) |  Strawberries (Rich in Vitamin C & free radical fighting antioxidants to boost immunity) |  Blueberries (Antioxidants fighting free radicals to boost immunity) |  Oranges/Mandarins (Rich in Vitamin C to boost Immunity) |
2. Cut your fruit
Cut your choice fruit in bite-sized pieces for easy eating and toss them all into a bowl.
3. Naturally preserve your mixed cut fruit
Squeeze fresh alkaline-rich lime juice on your fresh cut fruit to natrually preserve by preventing oxidation and to keep fresh!
4. Securely store your fruit
 Select storage containers with tight lids to ensure longer freshness. *Note- glass is best! |  Mason jars with secure air-tight lids lock in freshness and are super convenient! |  Glass bowls come in various sizes to store your favorite chopped fruit! |
Nothing left to do but enjoy!
What are your favorite fruit combinations?
Let AC Art Of Food know in the comments below!
Let AC Art Of Food know in the comments below!
Easy & Crisp Air Fried Baked Potato & Salad, AC Art Of Food
There is truly nothing more comforting than a piping hot, tender in the middle, super filling baked potato right out of a traditional oven. However, some would beg to differ that popped in the microwave for a fraction of the time is the best thing to happen to this root veggie since the dollop of sour cream.
But what if I tell you that the best of both worlds is yours for the taking?
I present to you, the world....well the air fryer that is, lol!
By popping your potatoes in the air fryer, you still get that moist and tender inside, but with an added crispy outside skin that leads you to believe all is truly right with the world! And to make this scrumptious combination even better, it is created in half the time of a baked potato prepared in a conventional oven.
I have prepared these potatoes both as a whole and halved and find that while left whole, there's still the crispy skin, but it takes a bit longer for the inside to get just right. While the halves cooked perfectly every time based on the instructions below.
*CULINARY HEALTH TIP*
There's a misconception out there that 'white' potatoes are the devil! Well, that's simply NOT true. And to be clear, potatoes are not a white food as it relates to white flour, white rice, white bread, etc. Saying that a potato is a white food is like saying an apple, pear, or some blueberries are as well. Last time I checked, most potatoes are brown on the outside and come in various colors from red to even purple! Now, indeed they are starchy and should be eaten in moderation, but they are ok to eat and are good for you!
Check out a few of the benefits found in this nutrient packed root vegetable:
But what if I tell you that the best of both worlds is yours for the taking?
I present to you, the world....well the air fryer that is, lol!
By popping your potatoes in the air fryer, you still get that moist and tender inside, but with an added crispy outside skin that leads you to believe all is truly right with the world! And to make this scrumptious combination even better, it is created in half the time of a baked potato prepared in a conventional oven.
I have prepared these potatoes both as a whole and halved and find that while left whole, there's still the crispy skin, but it takes a bit longer for the inside to get just right. While the halves cooked perfectly every time based on the instructions below.
*CULINARY HEALTH TIP*
There's a misconception out there that 'white' potatoes are the devil! Well, that's simply NOT true. And to be clear, potatoes are not a white food as it relates to white flour, white rice, white bread, etc. Saying that a potato is a white food is like saying an apple, pear, or some blueberries are as well. Last time I checked, most potatoes are brown on the outside and come in various colors from red to even purple! Now, indeed they are starchy and should be eaten in moderation, but they are ok to eat and are good for you!
Check out a few of the benefits found in this nutrient packed root vegetable:
- fiber rich
- potassium
- vitamin C and B6
- cholesterol free
- heart healthy
- full of antioxidants
- digestive health aid
- gluten-free
what you Need:
1 Potato, scrubbed clean and halved
1 tsp olive oil
1 tbsp Abstract Spice
optional:
 Fresh or dried chives/other favorite herb |  Butter/Vegan butter |  Sour cream/non-dairy sour cream |
equipment:
Air Fryer
Easy & Crisp Air Fried 'Baked' Potato
My SCRUMPTIOUS 'Possible' Burger! AC Art Of Food!
The very first time I experienced the renowned ‘Impossible Burger’ was right around the corner at my neighborhood bar and grill, Sandtown Pub. My sister and I were finishing up some last minute holiday grocery shopping and were famished! I suggested we stop here because I had been meaning to give this burger that I heard so much about a try. We sat down, placed our order, and waited. Shortly after our food arrived pipping hot and smelling amazing, the waitress nods to my burger, ‘You’re going to love that right there’! I was super excited (as I usually am when it comes to food, duh!), and excitedly asked her had she had the burger herself. She told me that everyone that comes in to order it raves about it. Not only that, they had one customer that would come in on a regular basis and order this Impossible Burger and add BACON to it! WTH??!?!?! She said one day she couldn’t stand it any longer and just had to ask the patron why is it that they would take this perfectly delicious plant-based-vegan burger and defeat its purpose by adding crisped swine to it! She said the customer looked at her puzzled and said, ‘…wait, this isn’t meat’? Can you believe it! This faithful customer had been ordering this burger all this time having NO clear idea at all that it was vegan!! Once she told me that, I already knew it was going to be phenomenal….and it did not disappoint!
 WHOA!?!? |  Topping a vegan burger with bacon?!?, AC Art Of Food |
The burger itself reminds me of how Steak ’N’ Shake burgers USED to be. Juicy and delicious, and crispy around the edges. That’s what this Impossible Burger was. Great flavor and amazing texture with all the fixings, including a soft toasted bun.
If you have not experienced the Impossible Burger yourself, I highly recommend you finding one and devouring it immediately!
*****
Now here I go. We were having burger night one Friday at the house, and I decided I would take out this pack of Beyond Burgers that were in the freezer. When I’ve prepared this particular burger in the past, I’d simply season on both sides and lay on the grill. However, I had the taste for an Impossible-style burger that night.
So I began to flatten the Beyond Burger, season and flip, and place on the grill.
*NOTE TO SELF: Next time I’ll wait to flatten the burger once it’s on the grill, as when I tried to flatten it on a platter, the burger tore apart easily.
As I grill both sides, I begin to see the edges crisp up and my mouth begins to water. The grill marks are perfect giving it that great char-look. I dress the burger with an ‘Everything’ bun, spinach, no tomato, pickle, sliced onion, mayo, and mustard, and DIG IN!!!!
OMG!!! Now, it wasn’t that either version was better than the other, the Impossible at Sandtown Pub, or the Beyond from my kitchen. They were both equally delicious in their own rights! Each had a unique flavor of their own which was very tasty all around.
Needless to say, when I want to go out for a burger or if we’re grilling or having family burger night at the house, it’s good to know I’m covered deliciously either way!
If you have not experienced the Impossible Burger yourself, I highly recommend you finding one and devouring it immediately!
*****
Now here I go. We were having burger night one Friday at the house, and I decided I would take out this pack of Beyond Burgers that were in the freezer. When I’ve prepared this particular burger in the past, I’d simply season on both sides and lay on the grill. However, I had the taste for an Impossible-style burger that night.
So I began to flatten the Beyond Burger, season and flip, and place on the grill.
*NOTE TO SELF: Next time I’ll wait to flatten the burger once it’s on the grill, as when I tried to flatten it on a platter, the burger tore apart easily.
As I grill both sides, I begin to see the edges crisp up and my mouth begins to water. The grill marks are perfect giving it that great char-look. I dress the burger with an ‘Everything’ bun, spinach, no tomato, pickle, sliced onion, mayo, and mustard, and DIG IN!!!!
OMG!!! Now, it wasn’t that either version was better than the other, the Impossible at Sandtown Pub, or the Beyond from my kitchen. They were both equally delicious in their own rights! Each had a unique flavor of their own which was very tasty all around.
Needless to say, when I want to go out for a burger or if we’re grilling or having family burger night at the house, it’s good to know I’m covered deliciously either way!
The 'Impossible Burger', AC Art Of Food
What plant based burgers are your favs and how do you dress them? Let me know in the comments below!
The BEST Ever Veggie & Dumplings- AC Art Of Food
I’ve learned to not let things intimidate me based on what others experience to be just that. Instead, if I’m interested, I simply attempt it myself. And after a few attempts, I mastered my version of this hearty comfort food fav. Let me introduce you to a delicious masterpiece, my BEST Veggie & Dumplings Recipe Ever!
Oh how I love a good chicken and dumpling, however, nowadays I’m not consuming chicken, but some in my family are. For this reason I purchased a fully cooked organic rotisserie chicken, chopped it up, and allowed for those that wanted chicken to add it to their own bowl! The kids really loved being able to have their hands in preparing a part of their meal, and I liked it because I could control their portion sizes as well. So much so, they began to realize how great the the dish was without so much of the focus on the chicken! And my favorite part was that I could ladle myself a delicious, steaming, creamy helping of this delicious stew and not have to pick out the chunks of chicken.
Oh how I love a good chicken and dumpling, however, nowadays I’m not consuming chicken, but some in my family are. For this reason I purchased a fully cooked organic rotisserie chicken, chopped it up, and allowed for those that wanted chicken to add it to their own bowl! The kids really loved being able to have their hands in preparing a part of their meal, and I liked it because I could control their portion sizes as well. So much so, they began to realize how great the the dish was without so much of the focus on the chicken! And my favorite part was that I could ladle myself a delicious, steaming, creamy helping of this delicious stew and not have to pick out the chunks of chicken.
 |  |  |
Now, it has become habit with every dish I prepare with an animal protein, to also look for a delicious way to prepare it vegetarian and/or vegan. My first approach is usually to deconstruct the meal itself into its intricate components and go from there. I switch this out for that, omit something all together, add a sprinkle of Abstract Spice to make it all come together…plant based.
Below are a few tips I ponder when converting a dish to plant based:
- Find a plant protein substitution that is similar in texture to the animal protein.
- Various mushroom types, jackfruit, tempeh, and tofu are my usual go-tos.
- I find bean substitutions to be too soft in texture, but it just depends on what I’m making and/or what I can combine it with.
- Often times you’ll find that no substitution is needed at all, and the dish is great without!
- If dairy or a dairy based ingredient is listed, shoot for a plant based product.
- Nut, hemp, and soy based milks are a great substitute when cooking.
- Although some may not like the taste or texture, these plant based versions are virtually and tastefully non-detectable in the cooking process.
Veggie & Dumplings, AC Art Of Food
What are your go-to animal protein substitutes? Let me know in the comments below!
BEST Ever Veggie & Dumplings REcipe
Easy Refrigerator Greens Omelette- AC Art Of Food
One Saturday a few weeks ago, I needed a protein packed bite to eat right after my workout but was short on time since I needed to be at the grocery store within the hour. So what’s a culinary health resource foodie to do?!?!?
Since I was at the end of the week, there were only small amounts of my weekly haul of kale, spinach, green onions, and fresh herbs left over in the fridge crisper unused from the week’s meals.
Now I have posted previously on how to make a delicious ‘green’ omelette, but this is just a reminder that when you’re bored with the hum-drum of scrambled, fried, and/or boiled eggs, it’s always a great idea to use what you have on hand in the fridge to make something protein rich, folded(lol!), and tasty!
Since I was at the end of the week, there were only small amounts of my weekly haul of kale, spinach, green onions, and fresh herbs left over in the fridge crisper unused from the week’s meals.
Now I have posted previously on how to make a delicious ‘green’ omelette, but this is just a reminder that when you’re bored with the hum-drum of scrambled, fried, and/or boiled eggs, it’s always a great idea to use what you have on hand in the fridge to make something protein rich, folded(lol!), and tasty!
Delicious Bio Coffee- AC Art Of Food
And what delicious warm beverage do I sip in the mornings while feasting on my breakfast? Why a cup of DELICIOUS coffee of course! But not just any cup of coffee, my Bio Coffee! Bio Coffee is the ONLY true alkaline coffee on the shelves today with a full serving of vegetables and wheatgrass! Ok, a bit much for your usual morning java? Seems to good to be true? A 'healthy' coffee with all this goodness and mercy couldn't possibly taste good, right?
This satisfying vitamin-rich blend reminds me of a favorite cappuccino mix from a certain company with an 'international' name. It's truly an amazing treat that my hubby and I enjoy literally every morning. The aroma is so enticing that you have to indulge in a cup! No worries if you need it to be a tad bit sweeter, simply add a tablespoon of your favorite plant based creamer and WHOLA!
So while you're reducing food waste by making my Easy Refrigerator Greens Omelette, DON'T FORGET get your cup of culinary health morning joe!
This satisfying vitamin-rich blend reminds me of a favorite cappuccino mix from a certain company with an 'international' name. It's truly an amazing treat that my hubby and I enjoy literally every morning. The aroma is so enticing that you have to indulge in a cup! No worries if you need it to be a tad bit sweeter, simply add a tablespoon of your favorite plant based creamer and WHOLA!
So while you're reducing food waste by making my Easy Refrigerator Greens Omelette, DON'T FORGET get your cup of culinary health morning joe!
What are some dishes you create from left over items in your fridge? Let me know in the comments below!
Easy Refrigerator Greens Omelette- AC Art Of Food
easy refrigerator greens omelette
Broccoli Slaw & Rice Noodle Stir-fry with a side of Crisp Tofu, AC Art Of Food
Ever been in the produce section of the grocery store, and while picking up a package of your favorite salad blend you notice that container of broccoli shreds? You know, it resembles the bag of shredded cabbage and carrots for a make-quick coleslaw, but it's green?
Well I've grabbed a bag here and there, usually when it's warmer out though. I'll mix it with a zesty garlic dressing and toss in some grilled shrimp for a light and delicious quick summer dinner. But what else could I use it for? I mean it's broccoli for crying out loud! Accompanied with nutrient rich carrots and purple cabbage. It's a package full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber goodness and mercy! What else would make it sing as a side or a main?
Enter Broccoli Slaw & Rice Noodle Stir-fry!
What an absolute genius way to make this convenient crisp and crunchy veggie mix sing! I mean, in 15 minutes or less this light and healthy dish comes together with great texture and Asian flare! Kicking it up a notch and stepping outside-of-the box, I opt for the rice 'noodle' as opposed to the more traditional long or short rice grain. Add your choice of grilled, baked, or broiled protein such as chicken, tofu, and/or seafood, and you're set for a one pan experience! However, my preference is having it alone as a noodle bowl with the addition of only a splash of sriracha.
I say an 'additional' splash of sriracha because the recipe calls for my ACAOF Stir-fry Sauce to be mixed in the dish which includes the spicy condiment. Now, feel free to use your favorite store bought sauce, I just love this sauce because I know exactly what's in it and don't have to worry about the extra ingredients I don't need.
ACAOF Stir-fry Sauce
It's simple, just mix together:
This sauce brings the dish together in such a delicious way, it's no wonder I chose to devour it all by itself!
Well I've grabbed a bag here and there, usually when it's warmer out though. I'll mix it with a zesty garlic dressing and toss in some grilled shrimp for a light and delicious quick summer dinner. But what else could I use it for? I mean it's broccoli for crying out loud! Accompanied with nutrient rich carrots and purple cabbage. It's a package full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber goodness and mercy! What else would make it sing as a side or a main?
Enter Broccoli Slaw & Rice Noodle Stir-fry!
What an absolute genius way to make this convenient crisp and crunchy veggie mix sing! I mean, in 15 minutes or less this light and healthy dish comes together with great texture and Asian flare! Kicking it up a notch and stepping outside-of-the box, I opt for the rice 'noodle' as opposed to the more traditional long or short rice grain. Add your choice of grilled, baked, or broiled protein such as chicken, tofu, and/or seafood, and you're set for a one pan experience! However, my preference is having it alone as a noodle bowl with the addition of only a splash of sriracha.
I say an 'additional' splash of sriracha because the recipe calls for my ACAOF Stir-fry Sauce to be mixed in the dish which includes the spicy condiment. Now, feel free to use your favorite store bought sauce, I just love this sauce because I know exactly what's in it and don't have to worry about the extra ingredients I don't need.
ACAOF Stir-fry Sauce
It's simple, just mix together:
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce or liquid aminos
- 1 tsp sriracha
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil
This sauce brings the dish together in such a delicious way, it's no wonder I chose to devour it all by itself!
Broccoli Slaw & Rice Noodle Stir-fry, AC Art Of Food
How would you serve this dish? Are you solo, or would you top it?
Let me know in the comments below!
Broccoli Slaw & Rice Noodle Stir Fry
Make it easy with simple variety! A Cheese Platter That Flatters, AC Art Of Food
For A Cheese Platter that Flatters...
●Grab your favorite cheeses from @aldiusa (AWESOME variety and inexpensive!)
●Grab some dried fruit and fresh produce (@SimplyProduce in College Park, Ga has the freshest and best fruit and veggies you can buy!)
....and all will be right with the world😌... well, at least for your gathering!🤗
It doesn't have to be extravagant or intimidating to be a crowd pleaser.
In fact, there's no good or bad way to style a cheese platter as long as you remember to always include these 4 components:
- The Cheese: nice hard cheese are great, but always include a soft spreadable one as well (brie, herb spread, etc.)
- The Cracker: Grab a variety of seeded crackers- they add additional variety. A bland water cracker is a perfect canvas for a complex flavorful cheese palate. *NO SALTINES!*lol!
- The Nut: A variety of smoked almonds, cashews, and walnuts are my go-tos! You favorite crunchy nuts should be delicious enough to eat alone. *NO PEANUTS!*lol!!
- The Fruit: Since this is not a fruit platter, try to always use seasonal, and reach outside the box. Grapes are a no brainer addition, but jazz it up with cubes of dragon fruit, blackberries, figs and/or star fruit depending on the season. And don't forget the dried fruit! Apricots, cherries, figs and pineapples are delicious dried accompaniments!
In all things Culinary Health, MAKE IT YOUR OWN!
Add your own pizzazz of tasty items you love for a delicious platter work of 'Art'!!
Stick to the basic 4 above and you're good!👍🏾.
Make it Your Own! A Cheese Platter That Flatters, AC Art Of Food!
What are the must-haves for your
cheese platter?
Click here to purchase your Culinary Health Cookbook Vol.2- The Clean Eating Jumpstart eBook now!
Whew, it's finally COMPLETE!!
This has been no easy task in the attempt for completion while balancing a family of 5, the bill paying 9 to 5 J.O.B, setbacks, the day to day upkeep of ACAOF, and well, simply life itself. Trying to get the design just right- but not too identical to Volume 1, as well as what to include and not, deemed equally trying. However, after over a year of research, experimenting, test kitchen successes and fails, I've finally completed what I feel is one of the best value-added beneficial guides for clean eating!
So without further ado, I am pleased to introduce the release of my latest labor of love:
Culinary Health Cookbook Volume 2- The Clean Eating Jumpstart eBook
Thirty(30) pages of delicious healthful recipes to jumpstart your clean eating lifestyle!
And as an added bonus, I've included inside this ebook two(2) lists, or mini books, that will help you maintain this healthy journey:
(1) *Kitchen Culinary Overhaul List (what you should have on hand)
(2) *Culinary Health Snack List (17 snack ideas)
The introductory price is a steal at $8 and will be set at its regular price of $9.99 January 1, 2019. So grab it now while you can!
This health-trendy world is full of diets, cleanses, and detoxes, that promise 'quick' weight loss and temporary wellness 'boosts'. But they're just that, temporary. This cookbook series is created for you to LIVE healthier for the LONG term! Included are realistic meals, ideas, and snack ideas that you and your whole family will love as well as your body!
Please understand, AC Art Of Food does not restrict nor try to set drastic limitations for your eating regimen- why do that!?! The purpose is to introduce you to new and 'outside-the-box' ways to get more clean/whole food in and processed food out! I want to make you love food again, the way it's supposed to be, and help you live your very BEST life at the same time!
Thanks so much for your continued support, and here's to a healthier YOU!
AC Price,
CEO/Owner and Culinary Health Consultant
This has been no easy task in the attempt for completion while balancing a family of 5, the bill paying 9 to 5 J.O.B, setbacks, the day to day upkeep of ACAOF, and well, simply life itself. Trying to get the design just right- but not too identical to Volume 1, as well as what to include and not, deemed equally trying. However, after over a year of research, experimenting, test kitchen successes and fails, I've finally completed what I feel is one of the best value-added beneficial guides for clean eating!
So without further ado, I am pleased to introduce the release of my latest labor of love:
Culinary Health Cookbook Volume 2- The Clean Eating Jumpstart eBook
Thirty(30) pages of delicious healthful recipes to jumpstart your clean eating lifestyle!
And as an added bonus, I've included inside this ebook two(2) lists, or mini books, that will help you maintain this healthy journey:
(1) *Kitchen Culinary Overhaul List (what you should have on hand)
(2) *Culinary Health Snack List (17 snack ideas)
The introductory price is a steal at $8 and will be set at its regular price of $9.99 January 1, 2019. So grab it now while you can!
This health-trendy world is full of diets, cleanses, and detoxes, that promise 'quick' weight loss and temporary wellness 'boosts'. But they're just that, temporary. This cookbook series is created for you to LIVE healthier for the LONG term! Included are realistic meals, ideas, and snack ideas that you and your whole family will love as well as your body!
Please understand, AC Art Of Food does not restrict nor try to set drastic limitations for your eating regimen- why do that!?! The purpose is to introduce you to new and 'outside-the-box' ways to get more clean/whole food in and processed food out! I want to make you love food again, the way it's supposed to be, and help you live your very BEST life at the same time!
Thanks so much for your continued support, and here's to a healthier YOU!
AC Price,
CEO/Owner and Culinary Health Consultant
get your copy now of the
culinary health cookbook volume 2- the clean eating jumpstart
~click here~
Smooth & Creamy Cheesy Sauce with Broccoli , AC Art Of Food
A really delicious cheese sauce is not the usual thing you’d think to make from scratch. It’s one of those items that you simply purchase to add to a dish. You buy cheese to nuke in your microwave and pour over your nachos, fries, and hot dogs.
You buy the cheese product that you cube and toss in your slow cooker for the ever fitting gathering appetizer which is ‘Rotel Cheese Dip’.
And you usually buy this same cheese to melt and pour over your pipping hot baked potato.
You buy the cheese product that you cube and toss in your slow cooker for the ever fitting gathering appetizer which is ‘Rotel Cheese Dip’.
And you usually buy this same cheese to melt and pour over your pipping hot baked potato.
The purchased store-bought stuff, not from AC Art Of Food
But what if I told you that with just a few ingredients and maybe 10 minutes you could make your very own Smooth & Creamy Cheesy Sauce from scratch? Would you let me show you how?
Not only will I masterfully show you how to make a deliciously simple cheese sauce that you can store and save for later, but I will also give you a:
Not only will I masterfully show you how to make a deliciously simple cheese sauce that you can store and save for later, but I will also give you a:
- Vegetarian option
- Vegan option
- Vegan non-processed option
Cheese makes everything taste better, even if it's vegan! AC Art Of Food
The feature ingredient in this recipe is obviously the real cheese. But sub that cheese with a plant based one such as Daiya and/or Follow Your Heart, and you've created a luscious vegan version.
Now, although delicious, the above mentioned cheeses are processed. Toss them out all together and add more nutritional yeast for a delicious vegan non-processed sauce that will give you life!
ADD INs:
Oh, the add-ins! In true AC Art Of Food fashion, what would a zesty Smooth & Creamy Cheesy Sauce be without making it your own, right? RIGHT!
So try some of these ingredients below for your signature sauce!
- Fresh broccoli florets
- Fried onions
- Chopped green onions
- Bacon (meat-less versions welcome and just as delicious!)
- Mushrooms
- Fresh chopped greens (spinach, kale, etc.)
- Chopped or shredded grilled chicken or steak
- Shrimp
- Ground meat or meat-less crumbles
Now which will you choose?
Deliciousness in Cheese, AC Art Of Food
which sauce will you try? Or what add-ins would you pick?
Let me know in the comments below!
Smooth & Creamy Cheesy Sauce- vegan if you like
The Question: Just How 'Fresh' is Amazon's Grocery Delivery Service...Really?
Unlike most of you out there, I adore grocery shopping! I mean seriously, the whole preparation of seeking out weekly deals, coupons, planning the meals for the week to produce the list, and the art of deciding from which of the 3-4 stores I will arrive at first on Saturdays to retrieve the best deals for my selections sends tingles down my spine! Hell, I even started my own grocery concierge- ‘A Cart Of Food’ (see the play on the name, lol!), where I would grocery shop for clients. I had a few clients that were extremely happy, however, time became an issue, and well, let’s face it- when the big box Instacart, Clicklist, and AmazonFresh businesses came on the scene, it was laughable for just me to compete on the larger scale. And in this case the old saying rings true, if you can’t beat them, have them do your shopping too!
Unlike most of you out there, I adore grocery shopping! I mean seriously, the whole preparation of seeking out weekly deals, coupons, planning the meals for the week to produce the list, and the art of deciding from which of the 3-4 stores I will arrive at first on Saturdays to retrieve the best deals for my selections sends tingles down my spine! Hell, I even started my own grocery concierge- ‘A Cart Of Food’ (see the play on the name, lol!), where I would grocery shop for clients. I had a few clients that were extremely happy, however, time became an issue, and well, let’s face it- when the big box Instacart, Clicklist, and AmazonFresh businesses came on the scene, it was laughable for just me to compete on the larger scale. And in this case the old saying rings true, if you can’t beat them, have them do your shopping too!
Grocery shopping Saturday for AC Art Of Food!
This past Monday I found myself stranded without a vehicle since my hubby took one to work and my oldest used the other to get to school. I had just gotten back in town and had not yet had the opportunity to grocery shop for the family before the week got started. This is when I decided I would try the Amazon Fresh service. Already a proud and loyal Prime member, on top of having several close friends to positively speak of their personal experiences, I decided to give it a go! I was thoroughly impressed by the easy online process from beginning to end along with the selection of fresh, organic, and familiar trusted brands. Unfortunately after selecting my items, I realized that they did not deliver same day, and decided to cancel my cart. Customer service with Amazon Fresh is no different from that of Prime where courteous and pleasant reps are always speaking with a smile and ready to accommodate however they can.
Although unable to receive the service on Monday, I thought it a great idea to still utilize the service along with my regular Saturday shopping excursion just for the experience and to see if and how I could maybe incorporate this convenience going forward. So just like earlier in the week, on Friday before I walked out the office, I made my selection of approximately 20 items to be delivered between the hours of 7-9am for the following day, approved the tip amount for the driver, and pondered if this grocery shopping method was cost-friendlier than my normal Saturday pavement-pounding only ritual.
Later that evening around 11pm, my family tells me things they would like added to the list….really….at 11pm!?! No worries, I pull up the app and the banner let’s me know that I am STILL able to add items to my list for the same delivery window time! So I add my son’s bananas and my hubby’s cereal, and turn in for the evening.
Although unable to receive the service on Monday, I thought it a great idea to still utilize the service along with my regular Saturday shopping excursion just for the experience and to see if and how I could maybe incorporate this convenience going forward. So just like earlier in the week, on Friday before I walked out the office, I made my selection of approximately 20 items to be delivered between the hours of 7-9am for the following day, approved the tip amount for the driver, and pondered if this grocery shopping method was cost-friendlier than my normal Saturday pavement-pounding only ritual.
Later that evening around 11pm, my family tells me things they would like added to the list….really….at 11pm!?! No worries, I pull up the app and the banner let’s me know that I am STILL able to add items to my list for the same delivery window time! So I add my son’s bananas and my hubby’s cereal, and turn in for the evening.
Groceries arrived safely and on time! AC Art Of Food
Bright and early around 7am, my phone rings and it’s the Amazon Fresh delivery guy letting me know he’s at my door with my groceries. Super excited, I jump out of bed, throw on the robe (y’all it’s cold out now!) and completely ignore the fact that my hair is standing up on its own on top of my head. It doesn’t even matter because I am literally feeling like a kid on Christmas morning! The driver is SUPER nice and friendly for it to be that early in the morning. He insists on handing me each bag and for me not to have to bend and reach to grab them on my own. He does not enter the house, but stands where he can safely hand each bag to me to where I can securely bring them in. Once all the bags are in he wishes me a great day and thanks me for my business. Awesome experience! I hurriedly transport each bag to my kitchen island and immediately break into each literally like it’s the morning of December 25th! My eyes are all starried as I reach in checking off each item on my list I pull it out of the bag. However, my eyes become a little less excited as I see that I am almost done opening my packages, but there are way more items on my list still to be checked off. Dang it! I realize they have forgotten at least 8 items from my list. And the missing items aren’t even the last minute ones I added just several hours prior. My heart sank as I contacted Amazon to tell them what happened. The rep, as usual, was very nice in listening to my ordeal, but simply offered the choice of a refund or delivery of the missing items. Unfortunately, the earliest my incognito items could be delivered was 9pm. I expressed that a refund would be fine and I would just have to make a trip out to get the forgotten items since it would be so late for them to re-deliver to me. And that was it. She did apologize for the inconvenience, which is great, but that doesn’t help the fact that now I have to leave my home to pick up grocery items, COMPLETELY defeating the purpose of the service. Unsettled by this resolution, I reached back out to Amazon Fresh and spoke with Jinell, who after hearing what happened did not hesitate to extend a credit for the mishap.
A nice haul, just missing some items- AC Art Of Food
Now, will I use this service again? Absolutely! I completely understand that things happen and have every bit of confidence that they will get it right, and that when issues arise they will handle it promptly and accordingly to my satisfaction- as they have always through Amazon Prime.
Just a little info on Amazon Fresh- AC Art Of Food
SOME INFO:
THE GOOD:
THE BAD:
THE OPPORTUNITY:
- Amazon Fresh is $14.95 monthly for Amazon Prime members. Personally I felt that with the annual fee, not to mention the recent increase in the monthly Prime membership, that this would have been an included service for members. However, I was told by the representative that the amount of sales and coupons provided by Amazon Fresh online will in most cases eat up this fee.
- This is not a same day service so plan accordingly at least a day prior. There is the option to have your items left outside your door and an ‘Attended’ option to be notified if you are home to personally receive your groceries.
THE GOOD:
- Ease and convenience.
- Easy user-friendly interface.
- Quality selection of products, organic, and trusted brands (Whole Foods products).
- Comparable prices to what you’d find in the stores and in some cases even less expensive.
- EXCELLENT delivery experience
- Effective issue resolution
- Proper storage for cold and frozen items (some of my bags had partially frozen water bottles in the bags to keep the refrigerated items cool and ice packs/bags to keep frozen items frozen!)
THE BAD:
- Not having an accurate out-the-door checkpoint to ensure all items are correctly selected for orders.
THE OPPORTUNITY:
- For a more effective issue resolution, train customer service reps to automatically provide an 'inconvenience credit' for missing items when a refund is requested.
HAVE ANY OF YOU EVER UTILIZED AMAZON FRESH OR ANY OTHER GROCERY SHOPPING/DELIVERY SERVICE?
LET ME KNOW YOUR EXPERIENCE IN THE COMMENTS BELOW!
The combination of sweet-tart cherries and the savory creaminess of this fresh cheese make for a phenomenal appetizer in my super simple Goat Cheese Spread & Cherry Compote Crostini.
Last weekend I decided to bring the retro 'dinner party' term to life in 2018. What started off as a make-up for a missed birthday event for a friend, turned into a beautiful opportunity to celebrate a good friend, along with good food!
Last weekend I decided to bring the retro 'dinner party' term to life in 2018. What started off as a make-up for a missed birthday event for a friend, turned into a beautiful opportunity to celebrate a good friend, along with good food!
The key to an enjoyable evening of cooking for friends is to not over-complicate the process. Deliciously simple is the way to win! And what's easier than bread, cheese, and fruit? Now, I'm known to put a mean cheese platter together loaded with wonderful fresh and aged cheese varieties, salty dried meats, nuts, sweet dried and fresh fruit, and various gourmet crackers. However, I decided I wanted a more 'Autumn' feel. While my infamous cheese platters are all the rave when it's warmer out, I wanted to take a different approach for the cooler time of the year. Warm crusty bread, creamy herb cheese spread, and deep earthy sweetness of stewed-like stone fruit just speaks 'Fall is here'!
My initial dried fruit of choice was cranberries. However, right next to the package was an equally tasty looking bag of dried cherries! Needless to say, either one would work magically, but my love for cherries during the summertime spoke a little louder given that I could bring them to life in the Fall. Not to mention the awesome health benefits cherries have such as melatonin(sleep aid), cardiovascular health, anti-aging properties, as well as having the power to lower hypertension.
For the cheese spread, cream cheese is added to create a more smooth consistency when spreading as opposed to the goat cheese alone having the tendency to crumble when applied. But no worries, the tangy goat cheese flavor still reigns supreme!
The baguette in this assembly presents a heartier vehicle for this delicious foodie topping combo that brings its own delicious identity when drizzled with fresh extra virgin olive oil. The sprinkle is simply added flavor. Remember, in cooking you must season each layer for maximum flavor!
My initial dried fruit of choice was cranberries. However, right next to the package was an equally tasty looking bag of dried cherries! Needless to say, either one would work magically, but my love for cherries during the summertime spoke a little louder given that I could bring them to life in the Fall. Not to mention the awesome health benefits cherries have such as melatonin(sleep aid), cardiovascular health, anti-aging properties, as well as having the power to lower hypertension.
For the cheese spread, cream cheese is added to create a more smooth consistency when spreading as opposed to the goat cheese alone having the tendency to crumble when applied. But no worries, the tangy goat cheese flavor still reigns supreme!
The baguette in this assembly presents a heartier vehicle for this delicious foodie topping combo that brings its own delicious identity when drizzled with fresh extra virgin olive oil. The sprinkle is simply added flavor. Remember, in cooking you must season each layer for maximum flavor!
So enjoy this recipe and feel free to substitute dried cranberries or even dried berries, to toast the season! (yep, pun intended!)
What's your favorite dinner appetizer go to? Post it below in the comments and let me try it too!
Goat Cheese & Cherry Compote Crostini
Green Goodness Curry Taco Boats, AC Art Of Food
*happy NATIONAL TACO DAY*
My trainer instructed me to forego carbs after breakfast for the remainder of the day to achieve one of my health goals. This is not a problem with these fresh and crisp Green Goodness Curry Taco Boats. I generally try to leave carbs alone in the evening anyway and this recipe makes it so much easier to do so! This is essentially why I created such a delicious twist on the usual 'Taco Tuesday'.
Even though the shell has been replaced with a cool and refreshing crisp lettuce leaf, the warm vibrant and rustic flavors of the curry spice balance this one-handed masterpiece perfectly. With Abstract Spice as the all natural seasoning base for flavor, the added rich fall spices of curry and paprika are heightened for a more distinguished tasting taco. Taking this flavor to an additional level is the arugula. Usually I have fresh cilantro as a garnish for my tacos that packs bright flavor, however, the 'peppery' bite of arugula deepens the warm spice tones to pair even more harmoniously with these tacos. Finishing with a squeeze of lime adding delicious zing to the layers of flavor and freshness, these tacos are a force to be reckoned with!
Like with many of my newer recipes, my Green Goodness Curry Taco Boats also include simple ingredients and preparation making it an ideal recipe to prepare during the week. You can even prepare the curry seasoned filling ahead of time and just heat and serve when you like. These are also super convenient for packing for lunch!
Even though the shell has been replaced with a cool and refreshing crisp lettuce leaf, the warm vibrant and rustic flavors of the curry spice balance this one-handed masterpiece perfectly. With Abstract Spice as the all natural seasoning base for flavor, the added rich fall spices of curry and paprika are heightened for a more distinguished tasting taco. Taking this flavor to an additional level is the arugula. Usually I have fresh cilantro as a garnish for my tacos that packs bright flavor, however, the 'peppery' bite of arugula deepens the warm spice tones to pair even more harmoniously with these tacos. Finishing with a squeeze of lime adding delicious zing to the layers of flavor and freshness, these tacos are a force to be reckoned with!
Like with many of my newer recipes, my Green Goodness Curry Taco Boats also include simple ingredients and preparation making it an ideal recipe to prepare during the week. You can even prepare the curry seasoned filling ahead of time and just heat and serve when you like. These are also super convenient for packing for lunch!
HOW DO YOU LIKE YOUR TACOS? LET ME KNOW AND MAYBE I'LL FEATURE YOUR RECIPE IN A POST!
*GREEN GOODNESS CURRY TACO BOATS*
Fall Pumpkin Spice Protein Pancakes, AC Art Of Food!
I was looking for a delicious way to welcome the cooler season for breakfast and created these Fall Pumpkin Spice Protein Pancakes! Unlike your ordinary pancake, these are full of texture and the warm taste of Autumn. The almond flour presents the hearty texture thats filling and fluffy at the same time. Packed with whole oats and ground almonds, they are also an excellent source of fiber and protein.
And can you believe it, they have the nerve to be better for you than your standard white flour based pancake too!
And can you believe it, they have the nerve to be better for you than your standard white flour based pancake too!
 Fall Pumpkin Spice Protein Pancake ingredients, AC Art Of Food |  Fall Pumpkin Spice Protein Pancakes- mixed and ready to pour! AC Art Of Food |
The ingredients are whole and simple. You can purchase oat flour, however, I take my rolled oats in the canister and toss them into my mini-blender and ground my own flour. This is an awesome tip to use that will yield an all-natural 100% product, fresh, and a save to your pockets.
Around this time right at the turn of the season, grocery store shelves are packed with pumpkin spices throughout! I snagged my spice at one of my favorite farmer's markets that I have been patroning for as long as I can remember! Yep, none other than Your Dekalb Farmer's Market! My goodness, they have everything in there!
These Fall Pumpkin Spice Protein Pancakes are sure to become a season tradition in our home. Obviously butter and maple syrup are a must. But adding warm spiced apples on top would definitely set these babies off right!
There's no better way to say 'Welcome Fall'!
Around this time right at the turn of the season, grocery store shelves are packed with pumpkin spices throughout! I snagged my spice at one of my favorite farmer's markets that I have been patroning for as long as I can remember! Yep, none other than Your Dekalb Farmer's Market! My goodness, they have everything in there!
These Fall Pumpkin Spice Protein Pancakes are sure to become a season tradition in our home. Obviously butter and maple syrup are a must. But adding warm spiced apples on top would definitely set these babies off right!
There's no better way to say 'Welcome Fall'!
What are your favorite fall time breakfast favs? Let me know in the comments below and share your delicious ideas!
Fall Pumpkin Spice Protein Pancakes, griddle up! AC Art Of Food
Fall Pumpkin spice protein pancakes
Super Easy Garlic & Herb Cauli Mash, AC Art Of Food photocred: veggie on a penny
I am so in love with this dish, my Super Easy Garlic & Herb Cauli Mash! I know, I know, the versatility of the cauliflower has been trending for a while now, and believe me, I have purchased several heads of cauliflower for over a year now and have never attempted the simplest of recipes for it, namely this mash. I would buy it with great intentions and hope for a carb-free crust for our family's Friday Pizza Nights. Even got an idea to blend it smooth for a nice and creamy chowder. Unfortunately, it would just end up sitting in my crisper, sometimes half eaten if I chose to roast it alongside some fresh broccoli florets. However, just a few months ago while on vacay I did experience a phenomenally health-wise dish that I have since tweaked and renamed (recipe post coming soon!). But mashed potatoes? Like, I have experienced the worst and inadvertently, the absolute BEST mashed potatoes. Boxed and from scratch. Soupy and some so thick you needed a knife AND fork! Needless to say, I’m serious about my mashed potatoes! So how can I consciously attempt to fool my family, let alone myself, with such a switch? And I believe that was the issue- it's a texture thing. Part of the greatness of what makes my Grandma JJ's homemade mashed potatoes the very BEST was the divine texture. Not too smooth, not too thick, intermittent lumps that would melt in your mouth. See! How can this cruciferous vegetable even come close? Other than the no/low carb factor and the benefit of it being all vegetable, taste wise.... I was skeptical.
Super Easy Garlic & Herb Cauli Mash, AC Art OF Food photo cred: the novice gardenener
But low and behold, I DID IT! I created my very first cauliflower mash! I prepared this dish just as I would my standard from scratch mashed potatoes and the result was delicious! The look was not so much that of the mashed potatoes. While others that sampled this mash were floored that it tasted 'just like mashed potatoes', I personally fell prey to the texture difference. The flavor indeed is an amazing resemblance, but the texture, other than being a bit thick and creamy, was not. It was missing the starchy ‘grainy’ texture that cooked potatoes possess- but not a deal breaker by far! This is a definite go-to in the Price household going forward! As a matter of fact, I'm posting this recipe at the request of one of my tasters, lol!
What's more is that this delicious recipe has the comforting flavor of homemade mashed potatoes, without the guilt! Only 33 calories and 3 carbs per serving! Compare that to the 129 calories and 25 grams of carb in real mashed potatoes per serving!
What's more is that this delicious recipe has the comforting flavor of homemade mashed potatoes, without the guilt! Only 33 calories and 3 carbs per serving! Compare that to the 129 calories and 25 grams of carb in real mashed potatoes per serving!
Are you a fan of cauliflower or nah?
Drop a comment below and let me know how you prepare your cauliflower!
Mmmmm! Super Easy Garlic & Herb Cauli Mash, AC Art Of Food
Super Easy Garlic & Herb Cauli mash
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