Sparkling Pineapple Ginger Agua Fresca – #NewWayToSparkle Mocktail

Posted on April 11, 2016 by Jennifer FIsher

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #NewWayToSparkle #CollectiveBias

I’ve got my sparkle on! Not just the skirt or the sweat, but I’ve been making every moment sparkle with Dasani Sparkling, a delicious and healthy alternative to sugary carbonated beverages. I drink a ton of water to support my sweaty lifestyle as a runner, obstacle course racer, CrossFit fan and yoga enthusiast – it’s so important to stay hydrated. However, sometimes water starts to get boring and I need a little treat to top off my tank.

Enter Dasani Sparkling . . . especially the two new flavors of this sparkling water brand, Tropical Pineapple and Raspberry Lemonade. Refreshing, flavorful and just the right amount fizz to make me feel like celebrating . . . without the consequences of a cocktail or other adult beverage. It’s easy to transform a can of this no-calorie carbonated water into a yummy mocktail – one of my favorite ways is to add pressed ginger root, stevia and a bit of mint to a can of the Tropical Pineapple flavor. That’s it! Check out the recipe for Sparkling Pineapple Ginger Agua Fresca below!

We all know drinking water is essential for athletes, but did you know ginger also works wonders on a physically stressed body? In addition to a host of other benefits, ginger eases up inflammation and muscle pain for those days when you’ve gone all beast mode on a workout. Ginger also helps quell nausea – like when that sprint to the finish line has made you feel like hurling in the nearest trash can. And, if that isn’t enough, ginger boosts the immune system, protects against many types of cancer and relieves migraines.

I hope your enjoy my recipe (below) for Sparkling Pineapple Ginger Agua Fresca – the bubbly water has hints of pineapple complemented with the zing of ginger. Dasani Sparkling has no calories straight out of the can, and this drink stays very, very low calorie yet thanks to the addition of a little stevia along with the ginger.

Find more easy-to-make recipes that are refreshing and fun to make with Dasani Sparkling Water by visiting this link: NewWayToSparkle. Purchase the new, sleek cans of Dasani Sparkling at your nearest Target on the bottled water aisle (near the sodas, juice or on an end-cap) for a special intro price of 3 for $9 (plus a 5% cartwheel offer) now through May 1, 2016. #NewWayToSparkle

Sparkling Pineapple Ginger Agua Fresca Recipe #NewWayToSparkle #Ad

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Do you have a favorite mocktail? Are you a ginger-lover? What do you drink after a workout? Please share in the comments below – XOXO, Jennifer

Sparkling Pineapple Ginger Agua Fresca

Prep Time

5 mins

Total Time

5 mins

Cuisine: American, Mexican

Servings: 1 serving

Ingredients

1 12-ounce can Dasani Sparkling Water - Tropical Pineapple Flavor
1 1/2" length fresh ginger root
1 to 2 packets powdered stevia
1 small wedge pineapple
1 teaspoon chopped fresh mint leaves

Instructions

Pour can of Dasani Sparling water into tall glass.
Cut ginger into 1/4" thick discs. Using garlic press, squeeze juice out of ginger directly over glass. Can also use fine grater to grate about 1 to 2 teaspoons of ginger instead.
Add 1 to 2 packets stevia, according to sweetness preference.
Add chopped mint to glass.
Lightly stir to combine. Add ice to top off glass
Garnish with pineapple wedge.

Paleo Carrot Ginger Gazpacho – Some Bunny Loves You

Posted on March 6, 2016 by Jennifer FIsher

Each time I enjoy my recipe for Lemony Carrot Ginger Gazpacho, I want to kick off my sandals and run through the green lawn shouting “whoohoo!” That’s because this light and lovely chilled soup captures the essence of spring, and I live for the spring . . . and summer. Warmer weather calls for cooler food and this chilled soup is a twist on gazpacho, a classic Spanish recipe. For my version, I’ve added carrots, ginger and a coconut water base to help with hydration. Perfect for a light lunch, Easter brunch or way to start your pool-side dinner – save a few cucumber slices for your eyes so you can feel like a pampered spa guest.

When I serve this Lemony Carrot Ginger Gazpacho to my family, I smile and say “some bunny loves you!” That’s because I know how much wholesome, healthy nutrition in packed into each spoonful of this chilled soup– loads of lycopene, vitamin K, potassium and dietary fiber to mention a few benefits. Plus, you get all the healing benefits of ginger – it helps tame digestive issues, reduces inflammation, boosts the immune system. Plus, I personally adore the zingy taste – you can add more or less fresh ginger depending on your preference.

To optimize taste and health benefits, please use fresh ginger and not ground ginger, bottled minced ginger or ginger paste. A little knobby length of ginger will stay fresh in your produce bin for a couple months and if you have the right grater, it’s easy and mess-free to get what you need. Not trying to sound infomercial-y, but this Dual Gage Grater is a must-have for ginger, garlic, turmeric, citrus zest, hard cheeses and such it’s only $3! The two sides each have a different grate size and the “V” shape catches all the teeny-tiny shavings so they don’t fall all over the counter or plate – you simply tip over into the bowl and scrape off. Plus, after you rinse off and dry, it slides back into itself for easy storage.

This recipe works for many diet types including Paleo, vegan, vegetarian, raw, sugar-free, gluten-free and more. Also, if you’re a meal-prepper, this soup that doesn’t’ need to be reheated makes a nice alternative to the standard make-ahead fare for grab-and-go healthy lunches and quick dinners. Keep refrigerated in tightly sealed mason jars or plastic containers for up to five days and transfer to a lunch box with ice-pack. Enjoy. Linking up with The Fit Foodie Mama and Running on Happy – please check out!

Are you a gazpacho fan? Do you prefer warm weather or hot? Did you run a race this weekend or have a competition? Please share in the comments below — XOXO, Jennifer

Lemony Carrot Ginger Gazpacho -- Paleo

Prep Time

15 mins

Total Time

2 hrs 15 mins

This chilled soup is a light and lovely prelude to any spring meal -- Paleo, sugar-free, vegan, vegetarian, raw and low-sodium.

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Soup, Vegetable

Cuisine: American

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

2 cups sliced carrots (about 4 large carrots)
1 cup cucumber chunks, peeled and seeded (about ½ large cucumber)
1 15-oz can no-salt added diced tomatoes (don’t drain juice)
1/3 cup chopped red onion
1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest (plus extra for garnish)
2 tablespoons fresh grated ginger more more if you like "ginger spicy"
1/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
12 ounce unsweetened coconut water
garnish lemon zest, snipped mint, unsweetened shredded coconut optional

Instructions

Add sliced carrots to microwave-safe dish and add ½-inch water to bottom. Top with lid and microwave for approximately 3 minutes or until steamed and tender, but not mushy. Remove from microwave and add to colander, rinsing with cold water. .
Add carrots, cucumber, tomatoes with juice, onion, ginger, vinegar, lemon zest and lemon juice to blender. Pour coconut water on top and process until smooth, adding more coconut water if needed (or sub water, if can empty).
Can serve at room temperature, but tastes better if chilled for several hours prior. Garnish with additional lemon zest, snipped mint and unsweetened shredded coconut.

Buh-Bye Bloat! Dandelion Greens Detox Smoothie

Posted on March 3, 2016 by Jennifer FIsher

Oh, we all have those days when the dreaded bloat is out of control. Personally, sometimes my tummy can stick out more than my butt. I’ve reduced my family to tears of hysteria (and fear) on more than one occasion by sticking out my distended middle as far as humanly possible – I look like a skinny 6-month pregnant woman or have an awful basketball sized tumor! Maybe it’s too much salt, not enough water, low fiber intake, that time of the month . . . or all of the above. I think we can all agree that being bloated and retaining water is not only an uncomfortable feeling, but also a self-confidence shaker – even though we all know that by eating healthfully, this gut grief not a lasting situation. Can’t believe I’m doing this, but I’ll share pictures of me taken within a short period of time — before dinner and already bloated (left) and feeling fabulous early one morning (right)! .

Rather than staying swollen up like a balloon, you can stop the suffering and get on the path to that slim and trim you with my Dandelion Greens Detox Smoothie. Packed with all sorts of healthy ingredients that promote healthy digestion and hydration, this green smoothie recipe is also very light, so you don’t have to fret about overdoing the liquid calories.

For under 120 calories, you get a 20-ounce glass of goodness that has no added sugar, progresses you towards your daily fiber needs, and even has a touch of protein from the dandelion (surprise!) It’s also rich in many vitamins and minerals, especially potassium, magnesium, calcium and vitamin K.

Here’s a rundown on the ingredients and how they can tame your tummy troubles.

Cucumber: Not only is this veggie is loaded with water (95% to be exact) which helps improve hydration, it also is a good source of a flavonoid antioxidant called quercetin that help reduce inflammation and puffiness – that’s why we have all long-loved to put slices over our eyes.

Coconut Water: High in potassium and other electrolytes, this watery juice from inside the coconut helps to flush sodium out of the body and restore healthy hydration levels. For convenience, I love to have this Coconut Water Powder on hand.

Banana: Bananas are rich in potassium, a mineral that helps manage fluid levels in our bodies and can assist in shedding salt-related water retention. Also, this dietary fiber in this popular fruit keeps things moving along in your digestive system.

Ginger: This root is a wonder when it comes to health benefits, anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea, migraine relief and more. It also contains an enzyme that optimized the absorption of proteins and Lessing protein-related bloating and gas in the process.

Dandelion Greens: Dandelion greens (as well as the root) are a fantastic detox food that cleanses the liver, flushing toxins and excess water out – perfect if you have lots of water retention. Dandelions have a surprising amount of protein for a “green” and even more calcium than spinach. You can also use the greens (mainly found in the early spring) in salads or sautés or reap benefits from drinking a dandelion tea or taking a dandelion root extract or supplement.

Buh-Bye Bloat! Try my Dandelion Greens Detox Smoothie Recipe #Fitfluential #FitFam

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Linking Up With: Happy Fit Mama, The Fit Foodie Mama, Hello to Fit, Fairy Burger, Chocolate Runner Girl, Jill Conyers,

Have you ever tried dandelion greens before? What do you do to beat bloating? Please share in the comments below – XOXO, Jennifer

Dandelion Greens Detox Smoothi

Prep Time

5 mins

Total Time

5 mins

Tame your tummy troubles with this low-cal smoothie filled with bloat-busting ingredients like cucumber, dandelion greens, coconut water, ginger and more.

Course: Beverage, Breakfast, Smoothies, Snack

Cuisine: American

Servings: 1 20-ounce smoothie

Ingredients

1 cup unsweetened coconut water
1/2 cup chopped fresh dandelion greens can swap spinach, if unavailable
1/2 cup banana slices
1/2 cup peeled and seeded cucumber, cut in chunks
1 teaspoon fresh squeezed lemon juce
1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger root
optional couple drops of stevia
1/2 cup ice, more if needed

Instructions

Add all ingredients to blender and process until smooth, adding more ice if necessary. Pour into tall glass and enjoy immediately.

Brunch on This | Tipsy Topsy Turvy Cranberry Ginger Cake

Posted on December 25, 2015 by Jennifer FIsher

Merry Christmas, y’all! Actually, I’m getting my post up late . . . so the day is almost over, but I hope lots of hugs were had, laughs were shared and memories were made! With our oldest home from college, it’s been wonderful to have everyone together again . . . and get back the full-immersion effects of being the only female of five people under the roof.

Today, I made big Christmas morning brunch for my kiddos, husband, mom and dad and family visiting from out of town. A few of the dishes are traditional non-negotiables, like the Overnight French Toast, Barn Raiser Beef & Egg Bake, and Cinnamon Monkey Bread. But, I always like to come up with a new holiday brunch recipe – and this one for Tipsy-Topsy-Turvy Cranberry Ginger Cake was a hit! There is still plenty of holiday time left to make this delicious dish which can also double as a dessert (throw a scoop of ice cream on top). Don’t worry, the alcohol content in the liquor burns off, so it’s just fine to feed to the children.

Oh, so did I mention that after brunch and presents and clean-up, we went stand-up paddle boarding?! Only in Austin!

Brunch on this –> Tipsy Topsy Turvy Cranberry Ginger (Coffee) Cake

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So, what was your most memorable happening today? Or, have you ever made an upside down cake — with what fruit? Please share in the comments, XOXO — Jennifer

Tipsy Topsy Turvy Cranberry Ginger Cake

Prep Time

10 mins

Cook Time

50 mins

Total Time

1 hr

Course: Breakfast, Fruit

Cuisine: American

Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup Grand Marnier liquor
2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
2 tablespoons grated Meyer lemon zest
12 ounces fresh cranberries
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated white sugar
1/4 cup melted butter
2/3 cup milk
2 large eggs
Lemon slices, cranberries, whipped cream optional garnish

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350F
In small saucepan, melt butter and whisk in liquor and brown sugar. Stir in ginger and lemon zest and continue to cook for 2 minutes until combined and beginning to bubble.
Spray pan with cooking spray and pour brown sugar mixture into bottom of pan. Add cranberries to top of brown sugar mixture; set aside.
In medium mixing bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, salt and sugar.
In another bowl, whisk together oil, milk, eggs and vanilla. Pour wet contents into bowl of dry contests and beat for 2 minutes with mixer or by hand, until well combined but not over mixed.
Pour batter over cranberries.
Bake for approximately 50 minutes in center rack of oven or until toothpick pulls clean.

Muscle-Making Orange Mango Protein Drink with Ginger #TryAboutTime

Posted on May 14, 2015 by Jennifer FIsher

I always refuel after longer runs and intense workouts with a protein-rich recovery snack or drink. However, in the oppressive Texas heat, I often feel a tiny bit nauseous and my brain signals tell my appetite to take a hike. But, I know I just have a 30 minute window to get in some fluids, carbs and healthy protein to rehydrate and help repair/build muscle – what’s a girl to do?!

ProHydrate from About Time makes a great recovery drink after run.

No watch today, but I know it’s “About Time” fomr my ProHydrate!

Well, I have a new “go-to” strategy to gas up my tank! Prohydrate from About Time is the perfect solution – it’s ready-to-drink, loaded with whey protein isolate and has a light, refreshing taste – more like a crisp, cool sports drink than a heavy protein shake. In addition to the protein (the perfect amount for post-workout), the 12-oz. beverages are sweetened with Stevia adding just 3g carbohydrates and 95 calories to your intake. To help my body process the protein, I also add a healthy complex carb alongside Prohydrate, usually a banana or other piece of fruit. Two other things to love about this new product from AboutTime.com – it’s gluten-free and has no artificial colors or flavors.

Of course, Prohydrate tasty really great swigged straight from the bottle – Raspberry Lemonade and Orange Mango are flavorful and #onfleek ! But, another great idea is to add some pressed ginger juice for a whole host of additional preventative and restorative benefits. Athletes will appreciate how ginger eases up inflammation and muscle pain for those days when you need a little extra TLC after working out. Ginger also helps combat nausea – like when that burpee cash-out on the WOD has you running to a bucket. And, if that isn’t enough, ginger boosts the immune system, protects against many types of cancer and relieves migraines.

Making the ginger juice is really simple. If you’ve got a juicer, just throw in a bunch of this gnarly-looking root and process – voila, spicy-strong ginger juice! If you don’t have a juicer, you can make “ginger water” by cutting up slivers of ginger root and place in a pot covered with water. Bring to a boil and then reduce and simmer for 30 minutes or until at least half of the water has evaporated. Pour through a strainer into glass jar to remove ginger pulp. To add to your Prohydrate, I would suggest starting with 1 teaspoon of the pure ginger juice or 1 tablespoon of the “ginger water” – stir into the drink, taste, and then add more depending on your preference for the “pow” factor of ginger!

About Time has so many other great products that fit in with my lifestyle – for example the AUX Pre-Workout Drink designed to increase metabolic performance and promote rapid recovery is great and so is are the protein pancake mixes – I made these eye-popping Tart Cherry Chocolate Chip Protein Pancakes from a big tub of the mix.

If you want to find out more, join in the Twitter chat on Thursday, May 21, 2015 at 9 pm ET. Following the hastag – #TryAboutTime and @_TryAboutTime

Workout Recovery Zing #ProHydrate + Ginger @_TryAboutTime #TryAboutTime #Ad #FitFluential

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What nutrition products do you use to recover from a workout? Please share in the comments!

This post is sponsored by FitFluential on behalf of About Time.

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Tag Archives: ginger

Paleo Carrot Ginger Gazpacho – Some Bunny Loves You

Buh-Bye Bloat! Dandelion Greens Detox Smoothie

Brunch on This | Tipsy Topsy Turvy Cranberry Ginger Cake

Muscle-Making Orange Mango Protein Drink with Ginger #TryAboutTime