Chocolate Chip Date Bars

Try making these chocolate chip date bars for a quick snack to fuel your day! Dates are known to promote a healthy nervous system, are a great source of fiber, and help lower cholesterol levels. Cashews reduce the risk of diabetes, boost bone and oral health, reduce the risk of anemia, and promote the development of red blood cells. Add in other nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds to promote good digestion and provide a good source of protein. Eat these for breakfast or as a snack when you are on the go! Enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups medjool dates, pitted

• ¼  cup cashews

• ¼ cup almonds

• ¼ tsp sea salt

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ cup paleo-friendly dark chocolate chips

Instructions:

1) Combine all ingredients, aside from chocolate chips, in a food processor until well-combined and sticky.

2) Once well-combined, add in and lightly mix the chocolate chips.

3) Line baking pan with parchment paper. Firmly press mixture into pan and place in freezer for an hour. Cut into bars and enjoy!

Slow-Cooker Chicken

Try this simple slow-cooker chicken recipe for lunch or dinner! Chicken is known to be a great source of lean protein and rich in phosphorus. Onion helps promote respiratory health, enhances brain health, and prevents inflammation throughout the body. Carrots help improve liver function, heart health, and digestion. Paprika helps regulate blood pressure, is a great source of vitamin C, and controls cholesterol levels. Add in thyme, garlic powder, salt and pepper for additional flavor and enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken

• 1 medium onion, sliced

• 1 carrot, chopped

• 2 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp thyme

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 2 dashes salt & pepper

Instructions:

1) Place sliced onions and carrots on bottom of slow-cooker.

2) Place whole chicken on top of onions and carrots and sprinkle with spices. Cover and turn slow-cooker on high.

3) Cook 4-5 hours until chicken is cooked through and no longer pink (internal temperature should be at least 170F).

4) Serve and enjoy!

Banana Baked Oatmeal

This banana baked oatmeal is a quick and healthy breakfast option that is packed with fiber and protein! Gluten-free oats are cholesterol-free, low in saturated fat, and rich in iron. Bananas are known to be rich in fiber, help lower blood pressure, and help promote nutrient absorption. They also play a part in improving bone health and are rich in vitamin B6! Ground flaxseeds are immune boosting, high in fiber, and a great source of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats. Cinnamon contains many antioxidants, helps prevent Type 2 Diabetes, and plays a major role in weight management. Place a whole banana (sliced in half) on top of the oatmeal before baking for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups gluten-free oats

• 1.5 ripe bananas, mashed

• 1 whole banana (not mashed)

• 1 ½ cup almond milk

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1 tbsp ground flaxseed

• 2 tbsp maple syrup

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ¼ tsp sea salt

Instructions:

1) Preheat oven to 375F. In a large bowl combine oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and sea salt.

2) In a separate bowl combine bananas, almond milk, maple syrup, flaxseed, and vanilla extract. Mix well.

3) Combine the wet ingredients with oat mixture and stir well.

4) Pour mixture in 8x11 dish lined with parchment paper. Slice a whole banana length wise and place on top of the oatmeal mixture with the inside of the banana slices facing up.

5) Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top of the oatmeal is golden brown.

6) Let cool for 10 minutes, cut into slices, and enjoy!

Sweet Potato Breakfast Hash

This sweet potato breakfast hash is a great morning meal option that will keep you full and fueled! Sweet potatoes are a great source of beta carotene, low in sodium, and free of cholesterol! Chicken is known to be rich in B vitamins and is an excellent source of protein. Garlic is beneficial in digestion, helps with hypertension, and reduces high cholesterol levels. Spinach is packed with nutrients, high in antioxidants, and strengthens the immune system. If desired, add in an egg and chopped bacon for extra protein and enjoy!

Ingredients:

Serves 2

• 1 tbsp coconut oil

• 1 lb. organic chicken sausage (sliced into half inch circles)

• 2 cups sweet potato, peeled & cubed

• 1/4 cup red bell pepper (sliced)

• 4 cups spinach

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tsp dried parsley

• 1 dash salt & pepper

• 1 egg and 4 slices of chopped bacon (optional)

Instructions:

1) Heat 1 tbsp coconut oil in large skillet, add in sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned.

2) Add sweet potatoes, bell pepper, and minced garlic and stir.

3) Stir in salt, pepper, and parsley.

4) Cook until sweet potatoes are soft, about 10 minutes.

5) Add spinach and cook until wilted.

6) If desired, add in cooked bacon and one egg. Cook until desired consistency for egg is met.

7) Serve hot. Enjoy!