Eating out and healthy don’t typically go hand in hand. In fact, I have worksheets and handouts for my clients to help prepare them for dining out. I’ve given countless talks on how to successfully dine out, but the truth it’s not likely that one meal out is going to completely ruin your goals. It’s all about eating real whole foods, and eating as clean as possible - at home or out.

My husband and I recently dined at Sea Salt in downtown Naples, and I was so impressed by their healthy dinner options. The fish was so fresh, and they were also able to modify almost anything on the menu to meet my gluten free and dairy free needs, making it so much easier for me!

Sometimes I worry about going out to eat…is there going to be anything I can eat…will someone try to pass wheat pasta off as gluten free (it’s happened!)… is this going to be more stressful than enjoyable?

The staff at Sea Salt, Sasi and Tanya took excellent care of us, and made sure that everything was allergen free for me. I would definitely recommend Sea Salt to anyone who is gluten free and dairy free, they made it so easy for me!

Dining at Sea Salt is a very different dining experience, it almost felt as though we were transported to another city. We felt very safe amidst COVID-19, and really enjoyed the decor and the theme of the restaurant. Upon seating our waitress, Sasi, explained to the different salts that they were serving that evening. We were served pink himalyean, black lava salt from Hawaii, and red clay salt from Hawaii. I love how this creates a unique experience each time.

I often tell my clients to be wary of the bread basket, but we definitely enjoyed a piece or two! Everything in moderation, plus we had to try the salts.

We were first served small bites of salmon & faro for my husband, and an apple slaw and shrimp for myself. These bites may have been small, but they were some of the best bites of the evening! My husband is still talking about the salmon and faro.

We then split the grilled octopus, which is one of my favorite dishes to order when dining out…and a super healthy one I might add!

For our entrees we had branzino and wagyu shorts ribs, served with sorbet and gelato for dessert.

This was a super special meal for us, and made great leftovers the next day!

Sea Salt served us some super fresh bites, and the meal really built upon itself. We were able to taste everything without feeling overly stuffed.

Thank you to Sea Salt for hosting us.

#hosted #ad

Today I am so excited to share a recipe from one of my favorite influencers and wellness professionals Mariya Kulyk RN, HWNC-BC

Check her out @holisticnursecoach and her website www.theholisticnursecoach.com coming soon!!

Have you ever come across a beautiful, fresh artichoke at the grocery store, but decided to pass because you had to idea what to do with it? I am so excited to share my absolute favorite way to prepare an artichoke that is both EASY and delicious.

It’s important to also mention that artichokes not only taste good, they are good for you! Artichokes are a good source of fiber and essential vitamins like Vitamin C. It’s a win-win!

Easy Steamed Artichokes

Ingredients:

2 fresh artichokes

Tip: When selecting artichokes at the store, look for ones with tightly-packed leaves, give them a squeeze, and you should hear a rubbery sound, indicating that they are fresh!

4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
1 lemon
filtered water
sea salt
pepper

Directions:

Prepare artichokes: Begin by trimming the end portion of the stem. Place an “X” at the tip of the stem with your knife to ensure it cooks through. Use a serrated knife to cut about 1 inch off the top of the artichoke, revealing it’s insides. Trim the edges of leaves so they are flat. Rub the top of artichoke with lemon to prevent browning (oxidation).
Fill a large pot with about 2 inches of filtered water. Squeeze the juice of 1/2 of lemon into water and leave it in the pot. Add 2 tbsp of EVOO. Bring to a boil.
Reduce the water to a simmer, place the artichokes on their sides and cover with a tight lid.
Simmer for 35-45 minutes, depending on their size. They should be fork tender.

Tip: Check the water level halfway through to make sure it didn’t run out!

5. Remove artichokes with tongs. Cool for a couple minutes before cutting in half.

6. Scoop out the choke with a spoon.

Tip: The choke is a white, fibrous, hair-like section of the artichoke right above the stem and artichoke heart. This area is important to remove as it can be a choking hazard, this is also where the arti-choke got it’s name!

7. Finish the artichokes with a drizzle of EVOO and with sea salt.

8. Dipping vinaigrette: simply mix the juice of 1/2 lemon with 2 tbsp of EVOO, add pepper and salt to taste, and use it as a dipping sauce for your tasty, pull apart, artichoke. Enjoy!