food

My Favorite Way to Unwin(e)d with FitVine

This post is sponsored by FitVine, however, I am sharing my own thoughts. All opinions are my own.

This post is sponsored by FitVine, however, I am sharing my own thoughts. All opinions are my own.

If you know me, you know that I love my #WineWednesdays and at-home (or virtual) happy hours with friends! There's nothing better than a nice glass of wine with dinner to help me unwind at the end of the day or a couple of glasses shared over a cheese and fruit board with my girlfriends. That's where my go-to, FitVine, comes in. FitVine makes a variety of ten different delicious wines that are all perfect for those who are active, have dietary restrictions, or are just looking for a better way to fit wine into their life, so basically everyone!

All FitVine wines have less sugars, carbs, and calories than traditional wines. They're also all keto, paleo, and vegan friendly as well as gluten-free and non-GMO. So what does that mean for taste and ABV? Absolutely nothing! They all have a full-bodied, delicious flavor and the alcohol content you'd expect from standard wine. A few other great things I love about FitVine are that their wines have no flavor additives and fewer tannins. It honestly doesn't get any better than FitVine in my opinion!

One of my favorite blends is FitVine's Pinot Noir which has just 0.03g of sugar, 3.7g of carbs, and a 13.9% ABV per 5 oz glass. It's super smooth and well balanced with hints of black cherries and honey, and it's the perfect compliment to your favorite cheese board or at-home happy hour! I picked it up right from my local Walmart, but you can find it at Publix, and Whole Foods as well, or you can find a store near you here.

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I'm also a huge fan of FitVine's Cabernet Sauvignon. It has just 0.06g of sugar, 3.9g of carbs, and a 14.1% ABV per 5 oz glass. I picked it up at my local Whole Foods when I was grabbing all of the ingredients for this flavor-packed one-pan dinner, and it couldn't have paired better!

One-Pan Baked Salmon, Potatoes, and Mushrooms Recipe:
(Serves 2)
1. Pour yourself a glass of FitVine Cabernet Sauvignon to enjoy while you prep and cook your dinner.
2. Quarter 8-10 baby potatoes, toss them with avocado oil, sea salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme, and bake on a baking sheet in a preheated 425 degree oven for 10-15 minutes.
3. Season two salmon fillets with seafood seasoning or the seasonings of your choosing (sea salt and pepper work perfectly fine).
4. Slice 8-10 Baby Bella mushrooms, and toss them with avocado oil, sea salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme as well.
5. Add the salmon fillets and mushrooms to the same baking sheet, and continue to cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until the fish is cooked through.
6. Serve with your favorite fresh greens, tomatoes, and/or other veggies and a nice glass of FitVine Cabernet Sauvignon, and enjoy! That Cabernet-mushroom combo is perfection, trust me!

You truly can't go wrong with any of FitVine's wines. Some of my other favorites are their Sauvignon Blanc and Rose, and I love to make a nice, light mimosa with their Prosecco. There's really a FitVine wine for everyone! I usually pick mine up at my local Whole Foods or Walmart, and they're also available at Publix. You can use this store locator to find the closest retailer near you. Let me know which wine you try first and which is your favorite in the comments below!

Fueling Your Fitness Routine - Mind, Body, and Spirit

This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx.

This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx.

When thinking about fitness, it’s generally the norm to just think about various exercises and ways of working out, but there are so many different pieces that go into a balanced fitness routine. From fueling and refueling the body to wearing the right gear, there are a number of crucial components to consider. That’s why I’ve rounded up a few of my favorite products that make all the difference in my fitness routine. So whether you’re looking for your next favorite supplement, a place to store your wedding ring while you work out, or even a way to tap into your spirituality and keep a sound mind before, during, and after a workout, I’ve got you covered.

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One of the biggest parts of health and fitness for me is what I’m putting into my body to not only fuel my fitness routine but also my everyday life. That’s why I’m a huge fan of Ancient Nutrition. Their Multi Collagen Protein combines five types of collagen so that you don’t have to choose between bovine and marine collagen and can get the benefits of both. It supports a healthy gut, skin, hair, nails, and joints and all of the collagen is sourced from non-GMO, pasture-raised, cage-free, and cruelty-free sources. I also love their Zinc + Probiotics supplement to support a healthy immune defense and gut digestion.

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When it’s time to suit up for my workout, the right leggings are absolutely key! I want them fitted but breathable, and I can’t stand when a legging rolls down mid-workout. That’s why I love these No nonsense Wide Waistband Sports Leggings. The fabric is lightweight with a built in stretch that moves with you. The wide waistband stays in place without rolling down for a nice, smooth look. You can use the code Sports25 for 25% off!

Another key piece in my fitness routine is the perfect snack bar. Whether I’m grabbing one to bring on a hike, or I’m fueling up before a spin class, a delicious snack bar with great ingredients is key. Queue the new Nature ValleyTM PackedTM sustained energy bars. Both the Peanut Butter & Cranberry and Almond Butter & Blueberry flavors are amazing, and these bars have the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and chewy textures. They’re really the ultimate snack bar and perfect for any occasion!

So now that you’re fueled and ready to go in your perfect workout outfit, you’re still missing one thing - a place to put that ring so it doesn’t keep getting in the way (or even worse fall off) during your workout. RingHero to the rescue! These adorable wrist bands are not only stylish, but they discretely store your rings or other jewelry while you get in that me time! RingHero protects your jewelry from sweat and damage while also keeping it within view right on your wrist. You can use the code BabbleBoxx10 for 10% off!

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We’ve made it through our workout, and now it’s time to refuel with the most delicious, easy plant-based meal. That’s where Veestro comes in. They ship fully-prepared plant-based meals straight to your door, and all you have to do is heat them up and enjoy! It really doesn’t get any easier, especially after a nice, hard workout. You can use the code BABBLE25 for 25% any order through October 31, 2020.

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One thing we don’t often think about in terms of health and fitness that truly plays such and important role is the mind and spirit. That’s why I love this Amenti Oracle and Feather Heart Deck and Guidebook. It’s a unique and fun way to tap into your spirituality and spark the imagination. It makes for a great gift or self-purchase for anyone who’s into divination or mystical, and it pairs great with tarot cards!

From the perfect workout gear to some of my favorite snacks, supplements, and meals, there really is so much that goes into a fitness routine outside of the actual workout. I hope you’ve enjoyed some of my fun finds! Let me know which you try and how you like them in the comments below.

Celebrating National Nutrition Month with BabbleBoxx

This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx.com.

This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx.com.

March is National Nutrition Month, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with some delicious and nutritious food! That’s why I was super excited when my BabbleBoxx showed up at my door. I literally felt like a kid on Christmas morning diving into the box, and it did not disappoint! Packed with tasty food and beverages, this box was literally stacked with the best goods. I may even have some discount codes on these amazing products for you, so you’ll definitely want to keep reading. So what’s inside?

VeeTee’s Thai Jasmine Rice & Wholegrain Brown Rice & Quinoa

Microwavable in just 2 minutes with no artificial flavorings, colors, or preservatives, this rice is super easy to whip up and perfect for any meal! The Jasmine Rice has that traditional sticky texture to authentically enhance (and soak up) your favorite Asian dish, and the Wholegrain Brown Rice and Quinoa is super versatile. You can use it as the base of a dish, as a side dish, or in a salad. No matter how you enjoy it, you won’t be disappointed! Does it get any easier than microwaveable rice? Make sure to check VeeTee out here: http://bit.ly/veetee-rice.

Wonder Kombucha

With only 10 grams of sugar per serving, Wonder Kombucha is the perfect non-alcoholic prebiotic beverage to nourish naturally occurring probiotic bacteria in the gut. It’s certified organic, non-GMO, gluten free, AND vegan making it the perfect way to improve your gut-health regardless of any dietary restrictions. You can get a $4 coupon for Wonder Kombucha for the month of March here: https://amzn.to/2GwYmUe.

Happy Healthy Co. Açaí bowls, Overnight Oats, and Smoothies

Eating healthy really doesn’t get easier (or tastier) than Happy Healthy Co.’s Açaí bowls, Overnight Oats, and Smoothies. Their smoothies come in 5 delicious flavors made from antioxidant-rich whole food ingredients. You just add your favorite milk or water, blend, and enjoy! The overnight oats come in 3 flavors made from heart healthy ingredients. You simply add your favorite milk or water, and place them in the fridge overnight. Voila! Delicious, easy oats to enjoy cold or hot. Packed with antioxidants, their healthy acai bowls couldn’t be easier. Thaw and enjoy same day or overnight in the fridge. All cups include only non-GMO ingredients and are produced in a nut-free and vegan facility. Find out more about them here: www.happyhealthyco.com, and get your mix and match bundle box delivered straight to your door anywhere across the continental US. New customers will receive $10 off their first order through the month of March.

Nutiva Organic MCT Powder Vanilla & Organic Squeezable Steam Refined Coconut Oil

Nutiva products have been a favorite of mine for years, and their Organic Vanilla MCT Powder and Organic Squeezable Coconut Oil just deepen my love. Made without chemicals, filler oils or additives, the vanilla MCT powder is the perfect way to boost you brain health and metabolism. It’s the perfect addition to your daily coffee, smoothie, or shake to keep you energized while providing mental clarity and fat burning benefits throughout the day. It’s a pure formula free form hexane, chemicals, GMO fillers, dairy, and gluten while also being certified organic, non-GMO, vegan, and Keto. The Organic Squeezable Steam Refined Coconut Oil is made from organic dried coconut without any chemicals. Thanks to the steam-refining process, it has a neutral flavor and scent making it perfect for baking, sautéing, stir-frying, and any and every other way you use butter, olive oil, and vegetable oils. Like the MCT powder, it is also certified organic, non-GMO, Keto, and vegan. Use the code NUTIVA25! or this link: https://store.nutiva.com/discount/NUTIVA25! now through 5/31/19 for 25% off all MCT powder flavors and refined/virgin coconut oil pouches.

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Laird Superfood Creamers: Original, Cacao, Turmeric, and Unsweetened

If you’re looking to upgrade your daily coffee, Laird Superfood Creamers are the all-natural way to do it! Did I mention they’re also great in tea, smoothies, and your favorite baked goods? With naturally occurring MCTs, these creamers provide an energy boost without the crash. They’re made from all-natural, whole food ingredients without anything artificial, and they fit into basically all diets. There’s the Original Superfood Creamer which contains just four ingredients, the Cacao Superfood Creamer for my chocolate lovers out there, the Turmeric Superfood Creamer which is my personal favorite to add to tea, and the Unsweetened Superfood Creamer which has just a subtle natural sweetness from real coconut. Learn more here: https://lairdsuperfood.com/pages/laird-superfood-creamers, and new customers can use the code BABBLE20 for 20% off their first order (offer expires 6/1/19).

Let me know which products you try and what you think in the comments below!

Daily Goodie Box Review

So I just received my first Daily Goodie Box, and I can literally say within this first sentence that you should all go sign up RIGHT NOW. Like no joke. There are so many great quality goodies, and it's literally free. You sign up (no credit card required), they send you a box depending on availability, and you give feedback on the products inside. I'd try to get you guys a discount code, but no need because it's literally FREE (yes, shipping is included). Plus the products inside are legitimately great quality products and a cover a wide range.

My box included:
-Pipcorn - Delicious Mini Popcorn. I've had Pipcorn before and LOVE it, so it's definitely nice to see something I know and love in this box.
-Gertrude Hawk - Peanut Butter Meltaway Bar. I haven't had this bar, but I know Gertrude Hawk, and that's some delicious, quality chocolate.
-True Natural - Benecos Natural Beauty Lipgloss. I'm all about natural beauty products, so I loved seeing this certified natural, cruelty free, and gluten free lipgloss.
-Bhatki - Yerba Maté Chai Artisan Tea. I love me some chai, and this one seems to have the best, straight-forward ingredients.
-Miss Jones - Organic Cookie Mix. Organic sea salt chocolate chip cookies? Count me in! I'll be baking these as soon as I get this posted. 
-Elemental Herbs - All Good Organic Skin Food. I use coconut oil every day (like a lotion), so I'm super excited to try this GMO-free, vegan, and gluten free coconut oil.
-Savant Naturals - Savi Crisp Chocolate Protein Bar. Can't wait to try these protein bars that are free of artificial sweeteners, colors, and flavors!
-Wild Foods - Cocotropic, Chocolate Nootropic Drink. This powder sounds awesome! It contains reishi mushroom, raw maca powder, mucuna pruriens, and wild turmeric all helping to improve mental performance. You can sip it hot like hot cocoa or add it to smoothies, coffee, or other recipes.
-RunGum - Energy Gum. Gum that's packed with B vitamins, caffeine, and taurine to help keep you energized and improve performance. I will definitely be giving this a try before my next workout.
-Älsa - Energy Drink Mix. A healthy energy drink powder mix that's both vegan and gluten free. Another one to try pre-workout or just for that added boost of energy.

I'm literally excited about every single product, and can't wait to give them all a try. Check each one out, and don't forget to head on over to Daily Goodie Box to subscribe and get a box of your own!

Taste of Whole Foods Market - Graduation Party

Another weekend means another Whole Foods Market event! This week's theme is graduation parties, and Whole Foods Market Princeton has some seriously delicious ideas! I had the chance to make the heirloom tomatoes with sherry vinaigrette and the shrimp and tortellini with olive bruschetta pasta salad. Both dishes have minimal ingredients and are super simple to throw together. Plus they're both SO tasty and perfect for a grad party or really any spring/summer party you have coming up! The tomatoes are so fresh and light, and the pasta salad really packs a flavor with only three simple ingredients.

You can get the full recipes for both of these dishes and all of the ingredients this Saturday 5/14/16 from 12-4 PM when you stop by Whole Foods Market Princeton. Plus you can taste test them yourself! Trust me, you will not be disappointed!