Tag: hunterdon county

  • Lemon Blueberry Muffin Mugs with Vital Proteins® Collagen Peptides

    Lemon Blueberry Muffin Mugs with Vital Proteins® Collagen Peptides

    Lemon Blueberry Muffin Mugs with Vital Proteins® Collagen Peptides

    This Lemon Blueberry Muffin is the perfect dessert when you are looking for something simple and easy to make that will fulfill your sweet cravings.

    Mug recipes are great because there are many different flavors and types you can make, they require minimal time and use just one dish.

    A serving of Vital Proteins® Collagen Peptides is featured in this recipe, which provides 20g collagen peptides per serving and hair, skin, nail, bone and joint health benefits.**

    The blueberries are a perfect touch as they have a sweet, yet neutral flavor that balances out the other ingredients. Topped with a coconut whipped cream, it captures all of the flavors together creating a perfect and sweet treat.

    Lemon Blueberry Muffin Mugs

    A yummy, nutrient-dense treat!
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 1
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 1/2 Cup flour gluten free 1:1 flour is used in this recipe
    • 1/2 Teaspoon baking powder
    • 1/2 Teaspoon baking soda
    • 1 Tablespoon cinnamon
    • 1 Serving Vital Proteins® Collagen Peptides
    • 1.5 Tablespoons maple syrup
    • 1 Teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1/4 Cup almond milk
    • 1/2 Teaspoon lemon rinds grated
    • 1 Tablespoon butter melted or use any oil
    • 1/4 Cup blueberries fresh or frozen
    • coconut whipped cream for topping

    Method
     

    1. In a large mug, combine all of the dry ingredients except blueberries and mix together.
    2. Whisk in the wet ingredients and combine until they form a batter-like consistency.
    3. Add in the blueberries and then place on a plate in the microwave.
    4. Microwave for 2.5–3 minutes, pausing if batter looks like it may overflow. (Pausing will allow it to settle and not make a mess.)
    5. Take out of the microwave and top with coconut whipped cream and blueberries.
    6. Enjoy!

    **These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

    Recipe courtesy of Vital Proteins

  • Pomegranate “Gin” Fizz Mocktail with Vital Proteins® Marine Collagen Peptides

    Pomegranate “Gin” Fizz Mocktail with Vital Proteins® Marine Collagen Peptides

    Pomegranate “Gin” Fizz Mocktail with Vital Proteins® Marine Collagen Peptides

    A fun, effervescent way to enjoy your summer evenings.

    Filled with pomegranate juice, freshly squeezed lime juice, maple syrup, soda water, with a sprig of rosemary, this mocktail brings in flavors from the garden with a sweet twist. This mocktail is a great alternative when you are looking for something to sip on that is alcohol-free.

    What makes this mocktail toast-worthy, is the Vital Proteins® Marine Collagen Peptides that dissolves so effortlessly into the mixture and provides hair, skin, nail, bone and joint support.**

    Pomegranate “Gin” Fizz Mocktail

    Time to enjoy this delicious and simple Pomegranate Fizz Mocktail!
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 1
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 1/2 Cup pomegranate juice
    • 1 Teaspoon maple syrup
    • 1 Cup soda water
    • 1 Serving Vital Proteins® Marine Collagen
    • 1 Sprig rosemary
    • 1 lime wedge/round
    • 1 Tablespoon pomegranate seeds

    Method
     

    1. In a glass, add the lime, maple syrup, pomegranate juice and mix together well.
    2. Next, add the Marine Collagen and mix until it fully dissolves.
    3. Add the soda water to fill the glass.
    4. Top with a lime wedge, pomegranate and a rosemary sprig.
    5. Enjoy!

    **These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

    Recipe courtesy of Vital Proteins

  • What makes people healthy?

    What makes people healthy?

    What makes people healthy?

    Exploring the social determinants of health

    Why are some people healthier than others? Yes, your genes play a big role. But there are other determinants of health that have nothing to do with your genetic makeup. Where you live, how you’re educated, and other societal influences are all important factors in our health. Find out more.

    Two hypothetical kids

    There are significant implications for advantage and disadvantage related to social determinants of health. Look at socioeconomic position, for example: a child born into a higher tax bracket is much more likely to be in a higher tax bracket when they’re older.

    Let’s take a look at the life course trajectories of two hypothetical kids. Joe is born into an affluent neighborhood, while John lives in subsidized housing with his six siblings in a single parent home.

    Joe’s parents are able to afford organic produce, put Joe into private school, and drive him to and from his various sporting activities throughout his childhood. As a result, Joe gets an excellent education that allows him to attend university, secure a job in a top tax bracket, and enjoy an active social life.

    John’s father works double shifts to make ends meet, but the only apartment he can afford has a black mold problem that has given John respiratory issues for years. John’s school is oversubscribed, and he’s falling behind because of sick days. To support the family, John takes a construction job and eventually drops out of high school. Years of manual labor and poor self-care have taken their toll on John, and he lives with chronic pain.

    You can imagine that two very different states of health and well-being are being experienced by Joe and John in later life. These differences may not necessarily be due to differences in the individuals, but in the broader social and economic circumstances in which they find themselves.

    What next?

    To address systemic issues such as the negative impact of social determinants of health, we must look to addressing modifiable aspects of lifestyle at the individual level and systemic inequities at the population level.

    Your DNA is not your destiny

    Although there are many social determinants of health that you can’t control, focus on the ones that you can control, such as diet, exercise, and social connections.

    • Pack yourself a healthy lunch.
    • Go for an evening walk with your partner.
    • Plan a family gathering.

    When you need nutritional help, chat with your health care practitioner. They may recommend certain supplements, such as the following:

    Nutritional helperBenefits
    vitamin Cimmune health, wound healing, bone health, antioxidant protection
    vitamin Dbone health maintenance, decreased risk of cancer mortality, mood stabilization
    vitamin B6red blood cell formation, brain processes and development, immune function, and steroid hormone activity
    vitamin B12brain support, red blood cell genesis support, energy booster
    magnesiummuscle repair, neuromuscular facilitation, blood sugar control
    zincsleep support, digestive support, reproductive organ support

    Article courtesy of Alive Magazine

  • Refreshing Watermelon Popsicles

    Refreshing Watermelon Popsicles

    On a hot summer day, nothing beats the sweet, juicy goodness of watermelon.

    Imagine that refreshing flavor transformed into a delightful frozen treat: watermelon popsicles! These vibrant and mouthwatering popsicles are incredibly easy to make and will keep you cool all summer long.

    Bursting with natural sweetness and hydration, they are perfect for both kids and adults alike.

    So let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe and get ready to savor the essence of summer in every bite.

    Nicole Catenaro

    Refreshing Watermelon Popsicles

    These delightful watermelon popsicles are a cool and healthy way to beat the summer heat. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy the refreshing taste of watermelon popsicles! So gather your ingredients, get creative with your molds, and let the sweet flavors of this frozen treat transport you to a sunny paradise. Enjoy!
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 4 cups Fresh watermelon chunks (seedless)
    • 1 tablespoon Freshly squeezed lime juice
    • 1-2 tablespoons Honey or sweetener of choice (optional, adjust to taste)

    Method
     

    1. Start by cutting the watermelon into small chunks, removing any seeds if necessary. Ensure the watermelon is ripe and juicy for the best flavor.
    2. If you're using wooden popsicle sticks, soak them in water for about 10 minutes to prevent them from splintering during freezing.
    3. Place the watermelon chunks into a blender or food processor. Blend until you achieve a smooth and liquid consistency.
    4. Add the freshly squeezed lime juice to the watermelon puree. Lime juice enhances the overall flavor and adds a tangy kick.
    5. Taste the watermelon mixture and assess its sweetness. Depending on the natural sweetness of the watermelon, you may choose to add a little honey or sweetener of choice.
    6. If desired, gradually add the sweetener of your choice, blending again until well combined. Remember, watermelons are already sweet, so add sweeteners sparingly to maintain a balanced taste.
    7. Carefully pour the watermelon mixture into popsicle molds or small paper cups, leaving a little space at the top for expansion during freezing.
    8. Place the popsicles in the freezer and let them set for about 30 minutes to an hour, or until they become partially frozen.
    9. Once partially frozen, insert the popsicle sticks deeper into the molds or cups to secure them in place. This will help the sticks stand straight when the popsicles are fully frozen.
    10. Return the popsicles to the freezer and allow them to freeze completely for about 4-6 hours or overnight.
    11. When ready to enjoy, remove the popsicles from the molds or peel away the paper cups. If the popsicles don't easily release from the molds, run the bottom of the molds under warm water for a few seconds to loosen them.
    12. Serve the watermelon popsicles immediately and relish in the refreshing taste of summer. They are perfect for poolside lounging, backyard barbecues, or simply as a guilt-free dessert.
  • CBD Limeade

    CBD Limeade

    Looking for a delicious and refreshing way to incorporate CBD into your summer routine? Look no further than CBD-infused limeade! This delightful beverage combines the tangy flavors of fresh limes with the potential relaxation benefits of CBD oil or CBD-infused tincture. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply want a relaxing drink to enjoy on a sunny day, this CBD limeade recipe is a fantastic choice.

    CBD Limeade

    Remember, it's crucial to follow the dosage guidelines provided with your CBD product and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or questions about using CBD. So, take a sip of this delightful beverage and savor the unique combination of zesty lime flavors and the potential benefits of CBD. Cheers to a refreshing and relaxing experience!
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 20 minutes
    Servings: 4
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 6 Limes
    • 1/2 cup Fresh Lime Juice
    • 4 cups Water
    • 1/2 cup Honey adjust according to taste
    • CBD oil or CBD-infused tincture as per your desired dosage
    • Ice cubes
    • Lime slices for garnish
    • Fresh mint leaves for garnish

    Method
     

    1. Begin by squeezing the juice from 4 to 6 limes, collecting the juice in a pitcher.
    2. Add 4 cups of water to the pitcher along with the fresh lime juice.
    3. Stir in 1/2 cup of honey until it completely dissolves.
    4. Add your preferred dosage of CBD oil or CBD-infused tincture to the pitcher. Start with a small amount and gradually increase until you reach your desired dosage. Make sure to follow the instructions on the CBD product regarding dosage.
    5. Stir the limeade mixture well to ensure that the CBD is evenly distributed throughout.
    6. Take a moment to taste the limeade and adjust the flavor if needed. You can add more lime juice, water, or honey to achieve the desired taste profile.
    7. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the CBD-infused limeade over the ice, allowing it to chill.
    8. For an eye-catching presentation, garnish each glass with a lime slice and, if you like, a few fresh mint leaves.
    9. Enjoy!
  • What’s the deal with BCAAs?

    What’s the deal with BCAAs?

    What’s the deal with BCAAs?

    Breaking down the basics of branched-chain amino acids.

    BCAA supplements may be the talk of your gym, but are they all they’re cracked up to be? Before you make any decisions, go back to the BCAA basics. Here are 10 things you should know about BCAAs.

    1. Needed by your body

    Getting their name from their “branched” molecular structure, there are three types of BCAAs: leucine, isoleucine, and valine. This trio makes up three of your body’s nine essential amino acids—called so because your body needs them to function, but can’t produce them on its own.

    2. Found in your food 

    BCAAs are found in protein-rich plant and animal sources. In addition to beef, chicken, fish, eggs, and milk, you can get BCAAs from corn, soy, beans, chickpeas, lentils, whole wheat, brown rice, almonds, cashews, and pumpkin seeds.

    3. Available in supplements 

    If you are eating a balanced diet—especially one with adequate protein—you’re likely already getting enough BCAAs. Still, there are reasons that you may want to add a BCAA supplement to your routine. If you and your health care practitioner determine that a BCAA supplement could provide needed support, you’ll find them most commonly in the form of powders, tablets, or capsules.

    4. Ease muscle soreness 

    BCAAs can aid in reducing the muscle soreness you may feel after a workout.  Known as delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS), you may know the feeling best two or three days after a particularly hard workout.  Research has shown that BCAAs, especially when ingested prior to working out, can help suppress DOMS.

    5. Help you exercise longer 

    Studies have found that BCAAs can help enhance athletic performance by reducing exercise fatigue. The reason for this benefit has been linked to BCAAs’ ability to lower serotonin levels and interfere with tryptophan absorption—two chemicals that work to make you feel more tired during your workout.

    6. Protect your liver 

    Studies have shown that BCAAs help protect the liver of those who eat high-fat diets by providing support to gut flora that prevent fat accumulation in the liver. Further, BCAA supplementation has been shown to provide beneficial effects in those with advanced cirrhosis, a severe liver disease.

    7. Prevent muscle wasting 

    Muscle wasting is the reduction in skeletal muscle, which is brought on by a number of causes including disuse. BCAAs can help slow this muscle-wasting process. Separate studies have shown that BCAAs can provide beneficial effects to slow or prevent muscle wasting in a range of cases, including those involving cancer, advanced liver disease, and kidney damage.

    8. Support your well-being

    Adequate intake of BCAAs has been linked to a reduced risk of anxiety and depression, and an improved stress response.  In fact, one study showed that subjects with severe depression showed decreased BCAAs in their systems, suggesting that a low level of BCAAs could play a role in depression symptoms and low energy metabolism.

    Article courtesy of Alive Magazine by Laura Newton

  • Road Trip Cooking

    Road Trip Cooking

    Road Trip Cooking

    Go exploring with these make-ahead recipes.

    Piling into the car and hitting the open road presents both challenges and delights. When planning your on-the-road menu, choose dishes that pack well or that get better as leftovers. Dig out your cooler and read on—it’s time to hit the road!

    Kale and Napa Cabbage Salad with Sumac Pickled Onions

    Kale and Napa cabbage stand up for hours to the sweet and puckery dressing, and hearty farro will keep you going while on the road.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 8
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 Cup red onion finely sliced
    • 3 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar
    • 1/4 Teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
    • 1 Teaspoon maple syrup
    • 1 Teaspoon sumac
    • 1/4 Teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 Teaspoon black pepper
    • 2 Tablespoons olive oil divided
    • 5 Cups kale finely sliced
    • 1 Cup Napa cabbage finely sliced
    • 2/3 Cup fresh mint finely sliced
    • 3 Medjool dates pits removed, finely chopped
    • 2 Cups cooked farro drained and cooled

    Method
     

    1. In small bowl, combine onion, vinegar, red pepper flakes, maple syrup, sumac, salt, and pepper, and set aside.
    2. In large bowl, add 1 Tbsp olive oil and kale, and massage kale for a few minutes with your hands. Let stand for 20 minutes.
    3. To assemble salad, toss kale, pickled onion dressing, and remaining olive oil with cabbage, mint, dates, and farro. Keep cool or refrigerate for up to 4 hours before enjoying.

    Freeze-Ahead Breakfast Wraps

    Make these wraps anytime and stick them in the freezer for your next excursion.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 6
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    Wraps
    • 2 Tablespoons olive oil
    • 2 Cups sweet potato peeled, diced
    • 2 Teaspoons sweet smoked paprika
    • 1 Cup shallot finely diced
    • 1 Cup red bell pepper diced
    • 2 Oz goat cheese
    • 1 Cup baby spinach leaves chopped
    • 8 eggs beaten
    • 6 10 inch tortillas
    Smoky red pepper “ketchup”
    • 1 Teaspoon olive oil
    • 1 red bell pepper
    • 6 baby plum tomatoes
    • 2 Medjool dates pitted
    • 1/4 Teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 Teaspoon sweet smoked Spanish paprika
    • 1/8 Teaspoon hot Spanish paprika

    Method
     

    1. For wraps, in large skillet on medium-high, heat 1 Tbsp olive oil, add sweet potatoes, and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once sweet potatoes are tender, pour into bowl and add sweet smoked paprika; stir through.
    2. In the same skillet, add 1 Tbsp olive oil, shallots, and red bell pepper and cook on medium-low heat for 2 to 3 minutes, until soft and shallots are translucent. Scrape into bowl with sweet potatoes and add goat cheese and spinach leaves; stir to combine.
    3. Wipe out skillet, add remaining 1 tsp olive oil, and heat on medium. Pour in beaten eggs and stir while cooking until you have a loose custard, approximately 3 minutes. Add vegetables from bowl into skillet and stir through to combine, being careful not to overcook eggs. Remove from heat.
    4. Lay out tortillas, divide egg-vegetable mixture evenly among them, and wrap or roll. Allow to cool completely and pack for freezing.
    5. To make ketchup, rub red bell pepper and tomatoes with olive oil, add to baking dish, then place under oven broiler. Turn pepper, broiling for 5 minutes on each side, until the whole pepper is blackened. Toss tomatoes occasionally and remove them in advance of the pepper if they’re getting too dark. They should be slightly charred. When pepper is black on all sides, remove from oven and place in paper bag to cool. Tomatoes can cool in baking dish.
    6. Meanwhile, in food processor, pulse dates to chop. Once bell pepper is cool, remove and discard skin. In bowl of food processor, place pepper, tomatoes, and remaining ingredients and pulse until you have a sauce with a loose texture. Seal in container and refrigerate or freeze.
    7. When it’s time to cook, thaw wraps and sauce in fridge or cooler for 8 hours or overnight. To cook wraps, warm on medium-hot grill for 5 to 7 minutes each side, until center of wrap is warm.

    Vegetable and Cashew Salad Rolls with Peanut Sauce

    Veggies and dip are a healthy road trip staple. Take them a step further in this recipe, inspired by Vietnamese-style salad rolls.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 4
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    Peanut sauce
    • 3 Tablespoons peanut butter
    • 1.5 Tablespoons rice wine vinegar
    • 1 Teaspoon sesame oil
    • 1/2 Teaspoon tamari
    • 4 Tablespoons water or more as required
    • 1/2 Teaspoon ginger grated
    • 2 garlic cloves peeled and crushed
    • 1/4 Teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
    Salad rolls
    • 8 rice paper wrappers
    • 1 Bunch fresh mint leaves
    • 4 radishes thinly sliced
    • 8 butter lettuce leaves
    • 5 broccoli florets thinly sliced
    • 24 cashews pulsed in food processor to pea-sized pieces
    • 2 medium carrots cut into matchsticks
    • 1 Cup baby spinach leaves stems removed

    Method
     

    1. In small bowl, combine peanut butter, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, and tamari. Add water, a little at a time, and mix slowly with a fork or spoon to gradually loosen the stiff peanut butter mixture. Once sauce is smooth, if you want a looser consistency, add more water, a teaspoon at a time. Once you’re happy with the consistency, add gingerroot, garlic, and red pepper flakes; mix through, and then pack into a sealable container.
    2. To assemble rolls, first set out a clean cutting board for your workspace. Fill a wide, shallow bowl with hot (not boiling) water and, working quickly, soften one wrapper in water and lay it on your cutting board. Place 3 mint leaves and 3 radish slices on wrapper. Add lettuce, fill with cashews, a few slices of broccoli, and a few carrot matchsticks, and finally spinach. Roll tightly and repeat with remaining wrappers until you have 8 rolls.
    3. Pack in a sealable container, keep cold, and eat within 24 hours with spicy peanut sauce.

    Article courtesy of Alive Magazine

  • Minted Strawberry Lemonade

    Minted Strawberry Lemonade

    Minted Strawberry Lemonade

    For a quick and delicious addition to your summer table try this minty-sweet-tart drink! Try different variations for a fun twist, such as basil instead of mint, or limes instead of lemons! Give it a try this summer to help beat the heat!

    Minted Strawberry Lemonade

    A bright, tart, and sweet summer beverage.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Total Time 15 minutes
    Servings: 10
    Ingredients Method Notes

    Ingredients
      

    • 2 32 oz bottles Santa Cruz Organic® Lemonade chilled
    • 9 oz Strawberry spread (see notes)
    • 1 bushel Mint finely chopped
    • 1 whole Lemon thinly sliced
    • A few mint leaves for garnish

    Method
     

    1. COMBINE lemonade, fruit spread and chopped mint in pitcher. Stir until blended.
    2. SERVE over ice. Garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves.

    Notes

    Strawberry fruit spread, or jam, can be used for this recipe. Any other fruit spread or fruit preserve could be used as well.

    Recipe via Santa Cruz Organic

  • MUSH Ready-To-Eat Oats

    MUSH Ready-To-Eat Oats

    Have you been looking for an easy and ready-to-eat breakfast that ACTUALLY tastes good?! Then try MUSH and their ready-to-eat oats for a flavorful breakfast experience like no other!

    One of the cool things that makes these oats so unique is that instead of cooking the oats to make a traditional oatmeal, MUSH cold-soaks their oats in dairy-free milk to get them to a fluffy, pudding-like texture we love.

    In addition to the creamy, light texture, this soaking process not only helps the ingredients retain their valuable nutrients, but also makes them easier to digest! These flavor-rich and ready-to-eat oats will make you wonder why you ever chose another breakfast!

    • Vanilla is rich in Antioxidants
    • Blueberries are packed with Vitamin C
    • Apples are loaded with Vitamin C
    • Strawberries are potent in Manganese, Potassium, and Antioxidants
    • Coffee increases energy levels and improves brain function

    Every MUSH starts the same but is finished off with nutrient packed ingredients that provide a delicious flavor profile. Oats are one of the healthiest, most nutrient dense superfoods available. 

    They are heart and metabolism healthy because they contain large amounts of beta-glucan fiber, which is known for lowering blood sugar levels, improving insulin resistance, and reducing cholesterol levels.

    MUSH then adds clean, healthy ingredients that give each one a rich and delicious flavor!

    With MUSH, anyone can elevate their nutrition to the next level! To learn more, go to their website https://eatmush.com/ !

    RESOURCES:

    https://eatmush.com/

    https://eatmush.com/pages/mush

    https://eatmush.com/pages/mission

    https://eatmush.com/pages/about

    https://eatmush.com/pages/ingredients

  • Qure Water

    Qure Water

    Qure Water believes that an active lifestyle, proper hydration, and natural nutrition are crucial to good health, happiness, and a balanced life. Thus, Qure set out to achieve an exceptional pH of 10, allowing one to completely hydrate, restore, and re-energize oneself. Qure is the ultimate alkaline water, as the pH of 10 has many health and hydration benefits.

    Qure’s hydration concept is simple: to make a high pH water that is only made with super clean base water and infused with natural ionic alkaline minerals. They decided that the best way to do this would be to research how Mother Nature naturally mineralizes it’s spring water and replicate this process. By creating a big portable clean room with reenacting rain and the pressure, Qure figured out a way to simulate nature in a large box. This Quration process is something that has never been done before in the water industry and thus sets them apart from their competitors.

    Qure constantly strives to provide optimal health benefits, as well as a consistent pure, clean, and refreshing taste.

    Come into any one of our Basil Bandwagon Natural Market locations to Qure Your Thirst – on sale through July 31, 2021. For more information on Qure Alkaline Water, please visit https://qurealkalinewater.com/ .

    Resources:
    https://qurealkalinewater.com/
    https://qurealkalinewater.com/who-we-are/
    https://qurealkalinewater.com/explore-qure/the-science/
    https://qurealkalinewater.com/qure-alkaline/