Roasted Broccolini with Pistachios

Broccolini, or baby broccoli, is similar to traditional broccoli, but with smaller florets and longer, thinner stalks. It is actually a cross between broccoli and Chinese broccoli. Unlike broccoli, it retains its flavor and crunch when cooked at high heat. I decided to roast the broccolini with some pistachios for a simple side dish. When roasted, it gets a sweet, caramelized flavor and a fantastic crunchy texture. Topped with some garlic and parmesan, it is simple, healthy and not boring. I particularly like roasting it because I can just throw it in the oven and forget about it while prepping the rest of the meal.

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Garlic Ginger Broccoli

So in my quest to make broccoli exciting, I decided to concoct an Asian-inspired version that uses my current obsession: fresh ginger. This recipe is healthy, simple and takes 5-10 minutes to make. I has a lot of flavor with minimal calories and is a convenient side dish to whip up on a busy night.

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Chicken Lo Mein

I decided to do another Takeout Makeover tonight using one of Craig's favorites: chicken lo mein. In Cantonese, lo mein means "stirred noodles," and this dish comes in many variations with all different combinations of meat and veggies. Traditionally, lo mein is a high calorie dish filled with sodium and fat. In this version, I used whole wheat spaghetti, lean skinless chicken breast, and lots of veggies. I also cut back the fat and sodium by using only one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and a small amount of low sodium soy sauce. Fresh garlic and ginger flavor this dish, which highlights lots of crisp fresh veggies. Next time you feel like reaching for a take out menu, try throwing this together instead.

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7 Make Ahead Healthy Staples: How one hour on Sunday can give you a week's worth of cheap, nutritious meals

Most people are simply too busy to prepare three meals a day. But everyone knows that cooking your own meals is both healthier and cheaper than eating out. What many don't realize is that with some planning, organization and an hour on Sunday night, you can fill your refrigerator with a variety of nutritious, convenient options that will last you through even the busiest week.


7 Make Ahead Staples:

1. Hard Boiled Eggs

One hard boiled egg has only 70 calories and 6 grams of high quality protein. They are portable, versatile and can be consumed on the go. Cooked, they last about one week in the fridge.

Cost: The best part about eggs: they are CHEAP. A dozen eggs ranges from $2-5, making it an affordable protein option.

How To:
1. Place eggs in saucepan and fill with enough COLD water to cover by 1 inch
2. Cover and bring to a rolling boil
3. Reduce heat to low and cook eggs for 10 minutes
4. Remove from heat and place eggs in cold water or ice water to chill.
5. Dry cooled eggs and store in a Tupperware container that's lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.

Ideas:

• Eat for breakfast, lunch, dinner or as a quick filling snack.
• Chop and add to salads
• Slice and add to sandwiches or crackers

Rest after the jump

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