Burger King has announced this week that they will be offering a delivery service which means that fast food will be even more accessible to people and their families.

Most people might be puzzled at why I would even promote their menu on my blog, but I am a realist when it comes to the average American’s diet.

Personally, Burger King would be one of the last places that I order food from, but I also understand that so many individuals LOVE them some BK! I also acknowledge that fast food is here to stay for a long time, so why not give my junk food lovers better options.

Trust me, I was once a BK lover back in my junk food-loving days so I know how delicious and addicting those value meals can taste….

Hypothetically…. If I was to call up Burger King to order some food, I would order from the following 5 options that are all under 500 calories.

These items should be ordered as a “cheat/ treat” meal on your Dirty Couch Day, because they may contain excess fat, sodium and preservatives. 

Tender Grill Garden Salad = 230 Calories

Dressing: Make your own at home. Lemon juice, Red wine vinegar, Balsamic Vinegar or even Mustard.

4 piece chicken tenders+ Side Salad = 230 Calories

Make your own salad dressing at home.

Fruit topped Oatmeal + Black Coffee= 270 calories 

Add skim milk and skip the cream. 

Cheeseburger + Side Salad = 340 Calories

Make your salad dressing at home.

Whopper Jr + Side Salad = 380 Calories

Make your salad dressing at home.

Whole Grain Ciabatta w/ Ham, Egg & Cheese = 380 Calories

Ask for no cheese and make this an even better choice.  Or Just turn it into Egg & Cheese.

Happy New Year everyone!

One of the top New Year’s resolution for most people is to get in shape and eat better.

Yes, this is a wonderful lifestyle change for anyone, but most individuals start the year obsessing about their new diet plan and making it to the gym every single day, that it can become overwhelming and exhausting.

Extreme diet + over training = burn out and fail (from experience)

So what are my top 4 suggestion for 2012?

No, I’m not going to tell you to get on a strict “diet” and munch on romaine lettuce, or commit to 5-7 days a week at the gym, because I don’t even want to do that!

For 2012… I suggest we all stop and smell the roses!

* SLOW DOWN & RELAX * EAT DELICIOUS FOODS * NO MORE BORING CARDIO * LOVE YOURSELF AND LIFE

1. Slow down and relax. Stop being so hard on yourself and take it easy. At the end of the day, you’re the only person that truly cares about your imperfections. I’m sure your friends and family love you regardless of how many dimples are on that cute butt cheek of yours! Yes,  I used to be that obsessive gym-goer and munched on bland veggie cuts, and I hated every minute of it. When I finally stopped stressing, extreme dieting, and living in the gym, I actually started seeing more visible results. Hmm…. I wish I would’ve known this before putting in years worth of torturous elliptical sessions.

2 Eat delicious Foods! Whenever a person approaches me about their new fad diet (examples Fat Flush/Lemonade Cleanse/ Low and No Carb/ Raw/ Special K Cereal etc), my advice is that I’m against anything extreme, and that they should consider eating “healthy, and well-balanced” meals all the time, instead. Life is short, but can also feel long if you’re miserable. Learning to eat healthy all the time, will make your weight loss journey easier and more enjoyable. And always treat yourself to a little bit of junk and desserts once in a while, as long as you are aware and moderate. When it comes to achieving a healthy weight, I like to suggest that individuals figure out their daily caloric needs, and then gradually start deducting calories for a healthy and realistic weight loss plan. Study after study has shown that the key to weight management is simple: Calories in vs Calories out. And yes, a calorie is a calorie, but I like to suggest that individuals eat “quality calories” from nutritious fruits, veggies, whole grains,(CARBS! YAY!)  lean protein, low fat dairy, heart-healthy fats and yes, even chocolate! Dark chocolate if possible of course

NO MORE BORING CARDIO SESSIONS. I remember those mornings when my alarm would go off and imediately felt exhausted from the thought of being on a boring treadmill or elliptical. Music helped a little, but the bottom line was that I disliked the workout. After years of trial, error and torture, I now can say that I only get on the treadmill for 3-5 minutes for a warmup before my 30-45 minute workouts. Oh… and I only work out 3 x per week vs 5-7 when I used to be obsessive. Working out should be fun, yet effective. Instead of an hour on the treadmill, I’d rather challenge my body through resistance training. No, I don’t look like the hulk lol. I feel more feminine and sexier than ever. I love my strong body. If you’ve never tried resistance training, ask a knowledgeable friend, look up youtube videos , maybe a fun workout video, or even hire a personal trainer to help you with putting together a fun protocol. You don’t have to keep them forever, but just enough to get you started. Also, try varying it up! Take a fun Zumba dance class, Vinyasa yoga, rock climbing, or even a fun walk with friends in your neighborhood. The key is to enjoy your workouts so that you can continue being active for the rest of your healthy life

Be Positive and love yourself and life. Oh, it’s so easy to slip into that dark place in your mind where life can get overwhelming, negative and depressing. At age 30, I have truly come to realize that my perception of any situation whether good or bad, can be controlled by my powerful mind. Practicing mindfulness and appreciation has helped me feel peaceful and more connected with everyone around me. When something bad happens, it’s easy to turn into a drama queen and make a mountain out of a mole hill. Being a drama queen is not only a waste of energy, but it can also affect others around you and push them away. I’m no Deepak Chopra or Eckart Tolle (spiritual dudes), but I try to live and face each minute as it comes and make the best of it. Of course, it’s not always easy and I have to find other ways to reach that peaceful place whether it’s through exercise, meditation, having a glass of wine or beer, or popping a xanax! Ha ha.. I really  don’t need xanax, but if you’re doc prescribes it, then I’m sure it’s well needed (Disclaimer: please consult with your doctor to see if you’re a proper candidate for anti-axiety meds before sampling).  Oh! And stop trying to keep up with the Jones’. Do I wish I was part of that worry-free, rich 1%? Of course!

But I’m also content with my fun and simple life. Appreciating what I have over what I don’t, is truly a priceless feeling. Everything I do, earn and achieve is for me, myself and I.

I hope you’re having an amazing start to the New Year and as a gift from me, please enjoy this fun and easy sample meal plan below to get you on a healthy track!

Love, Ghada

In the last post, I showcased a delicious tasting menu that I was lucky to enjoy at Pepperoncinis Sotto of Phoenixville, PA. One of my favorite dishes of the menu was the refreshing, yet comforting Arugula salad. This salad was so good, that I had to try to remake it at home.  This may not be the exact recipe, but I thought it came really close!

Ingredients:

Citrus Vinaigrette 

• 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 cup grapefruit juice
• 2 tablespoons canola/ olive oil
• Salt n Peppa

• 4 cups Arugula greens
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas
• 1/2 cup sliced radish
• 1/2 cup halved Kalmata olives
• 1/4 cup pistachios
• 2 oz shaved parmesan or to your liking

Preparation:

Happy Independence Day!

Growing up, I was lucky to have such open and worldly parents that embraced all their friends’ traditions and celebrations.

So if there’s any day off andor holiday scheduled.. then you bet ya that this Middle Eastern bunch is joining in on the party somehow.

For this 4^th of July, my brothers and I went against the typical park BBQ and picnic and decided to keep it cozy and local at our parent’s house. I guess we were just not in the mood to lug all the food, chairs, and cooking supplies, and not have access to a clean bathroom and comfy couch to lounge on after.

We started our cookout around 11 am and my mom and dad had already prepped most of the meats and side dishes, and all we had to really do is get the grill going and start cooking!

When it comes to grilling meat on the grill, I am far from skilled so I passed the responsibility on to my two younger brothers Khalid and Yousef.

While the boys got the flame going and started the grilling, my parents chopped up the salad and finished prepping the side dishes, and I got on my laptop to call my older brother on Skype!

My older bro Mo lives in Kuwait and runs a design firm, and since he couldn’t be with us in person, I Skyped him to enjoy our gathering via webcam. Yay for Skype!

While Mo and I chatted, the aroma from the grill started to flow in the house and was definitely causing me to get hungry and distracted. If only Skype can invent a scent application so that my brother could smell what I was smelling or even taste the food.. maybe one day

After talking for a while, Khalid and Yousef started bringing in the finished grilled items that they were devouring way before it made it to the table.

Unlike most cookout menus that feature the typical hot dogs, burgers and potato salad, my family likes to put a Middle Eastern twist to ours.

CHECK OUT OUR FAMILY MENU!

Grilled Lamb & Beef Kebabs.

Spiced Yogurt Chicken thighs

Peppered Liver Skewers

Roasted Grape Tomatos

Roasted Vidallian Onions

Fresh Garlic Hummus

Chopped Middle Eastern Salad

OTHER SIDES

Pita bread, Pickled Vegetables & Yellow squash

Dessert: Fresh Juicy Watermelon

Everything on the menu was homemade and prepared with love.

In addition to the food being so delicious, most of the menu was figure-friendly, protein and fiber-packed, low carb, and full of vitamins and minerals

Tune in next week when I reveal my parents’ special

KEBAB RECIPE

I promise that you’ll LOVE every bite of it!

Now that I showed you what I had for my cookout, I would love to hear about your menu!  Did you have a special dish that you like to prepare for others? Do you have a delicious, healthy dessert that you offer?

Mmmmmmm… I Love good food!

I’m always being asked on what I eat, what brands I prefer and suggestions for healthy delicious recipes. Since I’m a foodie, I have a few rules about what I keep stocked in my kitchen.

My food items MUST be healthy, figure-friendly and DELICIOUS! (according to my palette of course )

Check out some of my recent favorites!!!!

Joseph’s Middle East Lavash Bread

Joseph’s provides you with a healthy, reduced carb, high protein Lavash bread, now containing flax! These Lavash have no cholesterol and contain three healthy ingredients: Flax, Oat Bran and Whole Wheat which may help protect your heart, while losing weight. Each serving of this Lavash (half of each large bread), contains 3 grams of fiber and just 4 net carbs!

I LOVE this wrap! I can have it for breakfast, lunch and dinner!

KING OSCAR SARDINES

If you haven’t read my post on the health benefits of sardines, then click here. Unlike other brands that taste fishy and gross, this Mediterranean style can of sardines is beyond delicious! It has black olives, heart healthy olive oil, garlic and oregano…  You can find this at your local grocery store, but I suggest going on AMAZON.com and buying a case to save a few dollars.

Canned Pumpkin Puree

You can always find this in the bakery aisle in any grocery store, and you’ll always find a few cans in my pantry

Pumpkin is full of beta-carotene that’s amazing for giving your skin an all-year glow.

This creamy puree is also low in calories, carbs and sugars.

I love making pumpkin oatmeal, pumpkin pudding and even pumpkin smoothies!

Check out my pumpkin protein pie by clicking here

Maple Grove Sugar Free Salad Dressing

Salad is such a staple in my diet, but without a little bit of yummy dressing, it can be hard to take down.

Maple Grove makes a bunch of sugar free products and dressing that are not only diabetic friendly, but also figure friendly!

They’re all low in fat, carbs and calories. My favorite ones so far are the Italian Balsamic and Raspberry.

When your salad tastes so good, it makes you want to eat it all the time!

JELL-O!!! Sugar Free JELL-O

This is my fake dessert gift to myself at the end of the night if I’m craving something sweet.

10 calories… ZERO carbs… ZERO sugar and 1 gram of protein. I love JELL-O!

ok ok … one more!!!!

Snookie’s favorite nut! PISTACHIOS

Almost 90% of the fat found in pistachios is the healthy mono- and polyunsaturated fats. Good fats can help keep you full and shed that unwanted belly fat that can lead to heart disease and other complications.

Personally, eating pistachios is a fun and yummy experience. Its packed with fiber, potassium and other goodies. After I measure my portion, I grab my handful of nuts and take a timeout on the couch. I have to open each little guy perfectly and get the nut out. If it’s sealed closed, it becomes a game to somehow break it open. If it gets stressful, then I just replace it with another one from the bag lol.. Mmmmm

Now that I shared a few of my favorite recent foods, I want to hear some of yours

What’s in your kitchen!!!!

The other night, I treated myself to a cheat meal at one of my favorite local restaurants that’s known for their daily soups and specials. As I browsed the menu, I noticed that their Appetizer special was “Lobster Mac & Cheese”, a dish that every staff member raved about.  Being that this creamy, fatty dish is one of my favorite comfort foods, I decided to order it!

My Lobster Mac & Cheese was beyond delicious but unfortunately, it wasn’t a figure-friendly meal if you’re watching your fat, calorie and carb intake.

When it comes to comfort foods that I love, my philosophy is not to just have them as my “cheat meals” but to have them whenever my belly desires!  In order to make that reality, I always do my research to re-create the recipe by substituting healthier ingredients in the mix.

So if you’re a Mac & Cheese LOVER like myself, you’re going to love this low cal, low fat version!

The recipe below contains 6 servings. Each serving has less than 250 calories, contains 3 grams of fat, 28 grams of carbs and packed with a whopping 16 grams of Protein!!!

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup: Non Fat Evaporated Milk
• 1 cup low fat cottage cheese (I love friendship whipped)
• 1/2 cup fat free/ part skim ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup low fat shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp whole grain bread crumbs (4C has a great low sodium one)
• 3 cups of dry whole grain elbow or spiral macaroni

Preparation:

• Boil and Cook your pasta
• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Heat the milk in a saucepanover low heat. Add the cheeses until they melt, stirring constantly.
• Stir in the nutmeg, pepper, and salt. Remove the cheese sauce from the heat. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mixwell.
• Pour the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs. Bake the casserole for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and the top is browned.

How easy was that!!!

If you’re adventurous and want to spice this simple dish up, feel free to throw in some greens like a pack of frozen spinach pre-baking , or even some more protein like clump crab meat, ground turkey or even some spicy sausage to give it a little kick!

New Year’s Eve is only 2 weeks away and the invites are starting to roll in. Lots of people may choose to lay low and enjoy a quiet evening at home watching the ball drop around the world, but many others are planning an evening of getting glammed up and painting the town all sorts of colors with friends.

Unless you’re very strict and disciplined, the Holiday season can pack on a few pounds from all the holiday eggnog, alcohol, and all the feasts at your family gatherings.

If you’ve indulged a little more than you thought, you’re probably feeling a little more bloated and stressing fitting into that New Year’s eve outfit that you’re dying to rock!

I will be the first to admit that I have shoved a few extra holiday cookies in my mouth and the scale is a little upset at me.

Not feeling cute in a cute outfit is not cute! I know that when I’m feeling a little pudgy in a cute outfit, I just want to strip it off and put on my comfy, no-fail, hide everything black pants and top….

There’s no need to be mad at yourself because you have 2 weeks before the fun event. Plus…. I’m sure you’re the only one that has noticed the few pounds, so ultimately, this trim down is for YOU.

Below, I’m going to showcase my  sample meal plan that will help trim a few pounds, flatten out my bloated belly, and get me feeling and looking great on my fun night out!

Follow the 7 day meal plan and repeat for the second week

My trim down diet is NOT a starvation diet. The meals are well balanced and full of nutrition to keep my body working at its best.

I allow myself one mini cheat meal on the weekend and that usually involves some yummy carbs or sugary treats like hearty chocolate chips!

I also provided some links to the foods. Click on them, and the link will take you to a suggested product that will work in this diet.

Good Luck!

Day 1:

• Breakfast: 1/2 cup of oats (dry) with low cal sweetener, 1 egg + 1/4 cup egg whites
• Snack: 1 scoop protein shake (egg white protein + 1 cup almond milk)
• Lunch: Tuna salad wrap with lettuce, tomato, onions and spicy mustard
• Snack: Protein Bar (low carb/ low sugar/ low calorie) + medium apple
• Dinner: baked salmon, grilled asparagus with olive oil
• Late night snack if I’m starving: 1/2 cup cottage cheese w/ sweetener

Day 2:

• Breakfast: Spinach, tomato and feta omelette (1 egg + 1/4 cup egg whites) + 1 whole grain toast
• Snack: 1 non fat plain yogurt w/ 1/2 cup blueberries
• Lunch: Grilled chicken, green beans (spray butter) + 1 cup brown rice
• Snack: 10 almonds + 1 medium banana
• Dinner: Lean Beef & Broccoli (no starchy carbs)
• Late night snack if I’m starving: Protein Bar or Shake (low carb)

Day 3:

• Breakfast: 1 tablespoon of Natural Peanut butter on whole grain muffin with a side of plain non fat yogurt sweetened with low cal sweetener
• Snack: low fat string cheese w/ cucumber slices
• Lunch: Chicken and wild rice soup and medium orange
• Snack: Protein Bar (low carb/ low sugar/ low calorie) + medium apple
• Dinner: Grilled vegetables and poached tilapia with lemon juice
• Late night snack if I’m starving: 1 boiled egg or scrambled eggs (1 egg + 1/4 cup egg whites)

Day 4:

• Breakfast: scrambled eggs with smoked salmon + 1 whole grain toast
• Snack: Protein Bar (low carb/ low sugar/ low calorie)
• Lunch: Turkey sandwich w/ lettuce, tomato, avocado + carrot sticks
• Snack: 1 cup edamame
• Dinner: shrimp stir fry w/ broccoli, snap peas, carrots, celery & low sodium soy sauce + 1/2 cup brown rice
• Late night snack if I’m starving: low fat string cheese and 2 turkey slices

Day 5:

• Breakfast: spinach, feta and egg whites (1/2 cup) in whole grain low carb wrap
• Snack: 1 scoop protein shake (egg white protein + 1 cup almond milk)
• Lunch: Small cup of lean beef chili + side salad with oil/vinegar
• Snack: Protein Bar (low carb/ low sugar/ low calorie) + medium apple
• Dinner: 1 cup brown rice and beans (1/2 cup) with lean chicken
• Late night snack if I’m starving: Protein Bar or shake

Day 6:

• Breakfast: Protein Bar (low carb) + 1 cup almond milk
• Snack: 1 oz walnuts with 1 medium banana
• Lunch: Grilled chicken parm (topped with marinara and light cheese) with a side of spinach
• Snack: Non fat plain yogurt with 1/2 cup mixed berries and sweetener
• Dinner: Beef stew with vegetables (1 bowl) + side salad OR CHEAT MEAL. (Light cheat since we’re trying to trim down)
• Late night snack if I’m starving: celery and sweet red pepper slices

Day 7:

(if you cheated too much the night before, this is a good light day to recover and get back on track)

• Breakfast: Non fat plain yogurt + 1/2 cup peaches + scoop protein shake (blend and drink… mmmmmm delicious!)
• Snack: 1 scoop protein shake (egg white protein + 1 cup almond milk)
• Lunch: grilled chicken salad with balsamic vinegar.
• Snack: Protein Bar (low carb/ low sugar/ low calorie) + medium apple
• Dinner: grilled scallops on spinach and mushrooms
• Late night snack if I’m starving: 1 cup almond milk

After following this plan, you should feel more trim and ready to party! Also, pay attention to the boost of energy you will get from eating healthier and lighter without starving your body.

Have fun and be safe everyone!

Love,

Ghada

“Crazy Ghada is doing what? She’s exhibiting at the Philadelphia Food & Wine Show? I’m not sure if that’s a good decision”.

Criticism and judgement seems to come naturally from people who like to play it safe in life. I can’t tell you how many times I had to hear critiques and negativity from people regarding my ventures. I’ve heard it all from I’m nuts, to I’m just wasting my time”.

Well, my reply back to those individuals…when it comes to most things in my life whether it has to do with business or pleasure, I prefer to just jump and go for it! Over thinking certain things just leads to doubt, fear and even backing out completely. Like the Nike slogan…. Just do it! Life is too short and I never want to look back and say… “should’ve, could’ve, would’ve”.

A little over a month ago, I heard that the Food Network’s Food & Wine Show was coming to the Philly area, so I jumped at the opportunity to become an exhibitor. After making a few calls, I was in! Right after, I called my favorite friend and trainer Lisa, and asked her if she would join me and she did! Yay!

The Philadelphia Food & Wine Show was held on Halloween weekend at the Valley Forge Convention Center. The event showcased over 100 vendors who offered the best of wines, desserts and gourmet foods. Another exciting part of this event was that celebrity Food Network stars took the main stage to educate and demonstrate their cooking skills.

First, I’ll tell you a little about my experience and the products I offered, then I’ll fill you in on the some of the best tasting food items that I stumbled on!

Decorated with multi-colored Autumn leaves and serving bowls, the Smallworld Beauty table offered sugar free carb-conscious protein bars, no-sugar added cranberry pumpkin muffins and no sugar added Date-o’s. The Smallworld Beauty table stood out as the “healthy” table

Every item on the table was figure friendly, low fat and low in sugar.  Other fun items that were showcased were my Detox Greens and all natural liplove lip balms.

Every attendee had a chance to sample bite-sized bits of both the Coconut Coco Cream and Vanilla Apple Fudge Bars.

These were perfect for individuals who were watching their weight, carbs and even gluten.

This next product was a big hit! A few weeks before the show, I collaborated with a famous Philly chef to create a no sugar added, low fat, Cranberry Pumpkin Harvest Muffin… Mmmmmm. The main ingredients were whole wheat, cranberries, pumpkin puree and egg whites. Everyone was so impressed at how “moist” these low fat desserts tasted.

Another crowd pleaser, was my Mommy’s Date-O’s! Made with 100% Whole Wheat, flaxseed meal, light olive  oil, and pureed dates, this “O” shaped pastry just crumbled in your mouth. This dessert is a popular Middle-Eastern pastry that is typically baked with white flour and served with afternoon coffee and tea. Date-O’s are low in fat, low in sugar and sodium and high in fiber. Oh my Date-O’s… I can eat them everyday! These are only made by special request, so email me if you’re interested in buying some

I had such a great time! I met so many people and learned so much about what the people had to say about my products. Any feedback… is good feedback

Just because I was working, it didn’t mean that I wasn’t going to run around and check out what the other vendors had to offer. There was so much to taste and sample, and some were just so good that I had to purchase some for my own!

Fiore’s Garlic Sauce: Behind this one booth stood the cutest little Old man who was showcasing his “most famous garlic sauce”.  There was a bowl with the garlic sauce along side cut-up hearty Italian bread. Using a tooth pick, I poked one of the breads and dipped deep in that sauce. Wow… that’s garlicy but soo good!

Hempzel’s Sourdough Pumpernickel & Onion Hard Pretzel: I love hemp! When it comes to nutrition, hemp is superior to flax. It’s full of protein, fiber and Omega 3-6-9 similar to fish oil. These delicious pretzels were perfectly hard meaning that they won’t break your teeth. Hempzels also had other hearty and tasty flavors to choose from.

Crazy About Hummus’ Pumpkin Hummus:

What!!!!! Pumpkin Hummus? OMG… that is delicious!!!! I would have never thought to combine those two ingredients! This is a perfect protein packed item that is excellent for skin health! Give me two!

Bookbinder’s Gluten Free Soups:

What’s more comforting and satisfying than a hot cup of hearty soup! These gluten free soups were so good that I had to taste each and everyone that was showcased. My favorites were definitely the butternut squash with mushrooms, and the zesty tomato. I wish I had more right now as I write this

Famous Kirby’s Pretzels: Holy Moly this stuff is HOT!!!! If you love super duper spicy or want to play a mean prank on someone, try some of these Red Hot Chili pretzels. Wow… Manufactured by a husband and wife team, Famous Kirby’s introduces a line of HOT pretzels, potato chips, pop corn and even chocolate! I love spicy food but I definitely need some milk close by when eating these.

Don’t worry, Famous Kirby’s also comes in Mild for those who can’t handle the heat.

There were so many other great vendors at the show but I couldn’t afford to buy everything so I stopped at those.

If you would like to read more details on the Food & Wine Show, then click on this http://www.gourmetshows.com/pdf/2010/GS_SHOW%20GUIDE%20LAYOUT_102710.pdf

If you attended this show, then what was your favorite taste?

I know what you’re thinking… but NO, that’s not what I was referring to!

During my Jamaica getaway, I had a chance to enjoy a few authentic Jamaican dishes. Even if you’ve never been to the islands, I’m sure you’re already familiar with the popular dishes like Jerked Chicken, Rice and Beans and Jamaican patties.

On my first waking morning in Jamaica, I woke up and brewed some Blue Mountain Coffee, a smooth and delicious cup of Joe that many friends raved about, The coffee is grown in a designated area in Jamaica’s Blue Mountains and has a blue/green color to it. It’s aroma is bold and the taste is smooth and clean.

After sipping the last drop of my coffee, I put on some comfy beach gear and headed to get some breakfast.

The breakfast buffet was located on the end of the resort which gave me an excuse to walk along and admire the crystal blue waters before putting something in my belly.

When I got to the restaurant, the host showed me to my table and pointed out the breakfast buffet. The full spread was definitely tourist friendly.

Vacationers had their choice of the typical egg station, pancakes, cereal, fruit and juices. As I browsed through the selection, I noticed a “Jamaican Breakfast” section all the way in the corner, where no one was venturing towards. Of course, I had to go take a peak!

When it comes to traveling, my philosophy is to indulge in the culture as much as possible, so if Jamaicans are having a special breakfast, then I will have it too!

There were three trays filled with authentic concoctions. The first one was steamed yams and plantains, second was Callaloo (Jamaican collard greens) and the third looked like fish and eggs maybe?

The Chef noticed that I was confused so he came over and said “this is Jamaica’s national dish: Ackee and Salt fish”

Well then! That’s all he had to say… one scoop of Jamaica’s national dish coming right up! I took a little bit of everything and went back to my table to start chowing down.

I forked into the yams, plantains and Callaloo and the taste was close to what I expected.

Then came the Ackee and Saltfish…. Mmmmmm … The Salt fish definitely overpowered the dish and the Ackee was perfectly complimentary. It resembled both the texture and taste of an avocado.  Yummy!

For the remaining few days, I made this meal my staple breakfast.

So, what is this Ackee?

After doing some online research, I discovered that Ackee is Jamaica’s national fruit that grows on trees. This fruit was brought by slave ships from West Africa.

The Ackee fruit is reddish on the outside, and as it ripens, it opens up like a flower on the tree. The inside has three shiny glass-like seeds and surrounded by Arilli, a yellow edible meat.

Jamaicans consider this fruit a nutritious vegetable packed with essential fatty acids, vitamin A, zinc and protein.

As I continued to read about this crazy looking fruit, I realized that it was “illegal” in certain countries including the US.

Illegal? I didn’t experience any euphoria from eating it, so why illegal?….

The Ackee fruit can be quite poisonous if eaten unripe. The seeds also contain toxic chemicals that may cause bodily harm.

Ackee poisoning produces nausea and acute vomiting without diarrhea, followed by dizziness, slight fever, convulsions, coma and death. There is extreme hypoglycemia which can be corrected by IV glucose. The symptoms begin 2-3 hours after the meal, although the incubation time is sometimes shorter. The patient has intense thirst. There is pronounced sweating, tachypnea and tachycardia, headache, general weakness and hypotonia. The child is confused or stuporous. Tonic-clonic convulsions occur in one quarter of patients. Fatty degeneration of the liver, similar to Reye’s syndrome, is seen. Death may follow within 12 hours.

Ok… now that’s not cute! ….

In order to avoid toxicity, Jamaicans only pick fully ripened Ackee and rigorously boil the yellow meat before incorporating it in a dish.

The US still has a ban on Ackee fruit, but has allowed a few manufacturers to import “canned Ackee” that has been approved safe.

If you would like to taste this yummy Ackee, order it by clicking here

I’ve never seen this on a local Jamaican menu, but then again, I never looked or asked for it.

If you’ve experienced this dish before, I would love to hear your thoughts. If you know of any unique recipes, please share as well!

Yay for food!

xoxo

Cutting carbs is a great way to slim down before summer arrives. Carbs are the body’s main energy source, but excess carbs can easily be stored as fat.

This next low carb dish has been one of my favorite easy-to-make dishes these last few weeks. It’s simple, delicious, flavorful and very addicting.

These yummy grilled buffalo chicken bites only require a few ingredients and a few minutes of my time.

Ingredients:

• Boneless chicken breast(s)
• low sodium hot wing sauce (or mild)
• 1 tbsp worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt n peppa
• 4 tbsp fat free blue cheese dressing
• 1 oz crumbled blue cheese

Preparation:

• Season chicken with salt n peppa
• heat olive oil in a pan
• grill chicken 3-4 minutes on each side
• remove chicken and let it cool
• chop up chicken into cubes
• heat your pan again and pour your worces. sauce, wing sauce and blue cheese dressing
• toss your chicken bites and stir around until fully coated
• pour concoction into a bowl and sprinkle the remaining crumbled cheese on top.

I love to eat these chicken bites straight, on a bed of romaine or even stuffed in a low carb tortilla wrap.

So Yummy!