Alexandrea Garza

Today, I want to share with you my special recipe for Turkey Chili that is as healthy as it is delicious. Trust me, once you try it, it’s going to become a staple in your home during chili season.

Ingredients:

1lb ground turkey
1 tablespoon avocado oil
1/2 white onion, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 packet of chili seasoning
28 oz can of fire-roasted tomatoes
1 can pinto beans, rinsed
1 can red kidney beans, rinsed
4 oz can diced green chilies
2 cups chicken broth

Optional Toppings:

Shredded cheese
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Tortilla chips for serving

Instructions:

Prep Work:

Begin by preparing your ingredients: dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the red bell pepper. Make sure to rinse both types of beans under cold water.

Cooking Process:

Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the avocado oil.
Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until the onions become translucent.
Add the ground turkey to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks, ensuring even browning.
Once the turkey is mostly cooked through, sprinkle over the packet of chili seasoning.
Add the diced red bell pepper to the pot, stirring to combine.
Introduce the fire-roasted tomatoes, rinsed pinto beans, rinsed red kidney beans, and diced green chilies into the pot. The fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky depth of flavor that really enhances the overall dish.
Pour in the chicken broth. The amount of broth you use can be adjusted based on how thick or soupy you prefer your chili.
Stir everything together, then allow the chili to simmer for 20-30 minutes. .
Taste test and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Serving Suggestions:

Some shredded cheese, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a handful of crunchy tortilla chips can really take this dish over the top.

Final Thoughts:

There you have it—a Turkey Chili that’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and goodness. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly evening or needing a substantial meal to fuel your family, this turkey chili promises to deliver satisfaction in every spoonful.

This recipe has become a staple on my winter menu for 2024

What You’ll Need

Mixed Greens or your fave salad lettuce
Handful Cranberries
Coconut Sugar Almonds (get sliced almonds, 1 tbs butter and 1/4 cup coconut or brown sugar)
1-2 Oranges, we use Clementines
2 tbs Goat Cheese
My favorite salad cutters (linked here)

Dressing Ingredients

1 tbs Balsamic Vinegar (add more to taste)
2 tbs Olive Oil
1 teaspoon Honey (add more to taste)
1 garlic Garlic
Salt
Pepper

Coconut Sugar Toasted Almonds

These give the salad a nice sweet crunch. I use them in place of a crouton. You could do plain sliced almonds or any nut that you enjoy. I like to make a big batch of toasted sweetened almonds and use it throughout the week. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1/4 cup of brown sugar or coconut sugar to a pan on medium low. Let everything melt and then add in a bag of sliced almonds. Continue to mix it and watch until they start to get toasted. Just a few minutes. Take them off heat before they burn. Let them cool, break them up, store in airtight container for a week.

Assembling The Salad

There’s so much flavor in this salad and I love to make sure there is flavor in every bite. After the salad is in the bowl I am generous with the cranberries and almonds. It adds so much texture and taste to the salad. Next, I distribute slices of fresh oranges, their juicy sweetness contrasting beautifully with the tangy goat cheese. Once all the ingredients are in the bowl, it’s time to prepare the dressing. In a separate bowl, mix together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, and a clove of minced garlic. Season it with salt and pepper according to your personal preference. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and give everything a gentle toss to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated. I love these salad scissors. It makes my at home salads taste restaurant quality! After that, your sweet winter salad is ready to be enjoyed.

Are you craving something sweet yet want to raise your protein intake? Imagine sipping on a luscious smoothie that tastes like dessert but is chock-full of protein and good-for-you ingredients. If the idea of a chocolate-covered cherry or chocolate-covered strawberry in the form of a smoothie piques your interest, then I’ve got the recipe you’ve been waiting for. It’s a perfect post workout shake for Valentine’s Day! This smoothie brims with rich chocolate flavors and the natural sweetness of cherries, all blended into a high-protein potion that’s perfect for a post-workout boost or a delightful morning kickstart.

Let’s dive straight into the steps so you can whip up this tasty treat in no time.

Ingredients for Your Chocolate Cherry Strawberry Smoothie

Before we get started, make sure you have these ingredients on hand:

1/2 cup of frozen cherries
1/2 cup of frozen strawberries
1 serving of chocolate protein powder code ALEX20
1 tablespoon of cocoa powder
1 serving of PB2 or nut butter of choice
1 cup of unsweetened almond milk
Optional 1/2 or full frozen banana
Cacao Nibs for topping

Crafting Your Protein-Rich Creation

Step 1: Cherry Preparation

The key to a creamy smoothie is using frozen fruit. It eliminates the need for added ice and gives the smoothie a thick texture. Tip: freeze your fresh fruit before it goes bad so you always have it on hand!

Step 2: Add it all together

Pour in 8oz of almond milk into your blender. Add in frozen fruit, nut butter and protein powder.

Step 3: Blending Brilliance

Blend the mixture on high speed until everything is thoroughly combined and the texture is silky smooth. Check the consistency and add more almond milk or ice to reach your preferred thickness.

And top with cacao nibs for that chocolate crunch!

The Health Benefits You Can’t Resist

This chocolate cherry protein smoothie isn’t just a flavor-bomb; it’s also loaded with health benefits. Cherries are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. They’re also known to promote better sleep, which makes this smoothie a perfect choice for an evening snack. I’m currently trying to add in a few cherries or tart cherry juice daily to help with my acne prone skin.

The protein powder provides a hefty dose of muscle-bolstering nutrients, essential for post-exercise recovery. Cocoa powder, in addition to adding that rich chocolate taste, contains flavonoids linked to heart health.

Unsweetened almond milk keeps the calories low, and peanut butter contributes to your protein and fat intake.

Sip and Savor

The satisfaction of sipping on a dessert-like smoothie that’s actually wholesome and protein-packed is hard to beat. Give your taste buds something to dance about and your body something to thank you for.

It’s time for you to blend your own chocolate covered cherry strawberry protein smoothie. Enjoy the process and most importantly, enjoy the sumptuous results.

Give it a try and let your senses be delighted by this sweet yet healthy concoction. You may just find that it’s your new favorite way to indulge without a smidgeon of guilt. Cheers to your health and happiness!

Products Used:

Beast Blender: I’ve had this blender for over 2 years now and it’s still going strong. I love it because it’s super high power but small and sleek on my countertop. You can get different sized cups depending on the size of your smoothie. I actually bought one for my sister for Christmas and she has been so impressed!

Vegan Protein: I am not vegan but dairy- free protein digests better and agrees better with my stomach. I love this Chocolate Maca one because Maca is also great at balancing hormones. Most dairy free protein powders taste chalky and thick but not this one. It is my absolute favorite! I found it bc my favorite smoothie shop in town uses this exact one. Now I have smoothie shop level quality at home for a fraction of the price. Check it out here: https://go.sproutliving.com/alexandreagarza2 use my code ALEX20

Cacao Powder: Organic Cacao Powder gives your baked goods and smoothie that decadant rich taste!

Cacao Nibs: They taste like a bitter crunchy chocolate chip in the best way. It really balances out the sweet creamy taste of the shake.

Introduction

Craving something spicy, hearty, and delicious? This Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta is the perfect dish to satisfy your taste buds. This recipe combines the robust flavors of Italian sausage with the heat of chili flakes and the comfort of pasta. It’s a quick and easy meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. So, grab your apron, and let’s heat things up in the kitchen! Linking my favorite non-toxic pans here (they are also on sale!)

Ingredients

To whip up this flavorful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
3 spicy Italian sausages
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon red chili flakes
1 can (14oz) fire roasted diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons basil
Salt and pepper to taste
8 oz rigatoni
1 cup dry white wine
1/4 cup pasta water
1/2 cup heavy cream
Fresh basil leaves for garnishing

Preparation

Before you start cooking, it’s crucial to prepare all the ingredients. Here are the steps:

Remove sausage from casings
Mince the garlic cloves.
Open the can of diced tomatoes, ready to pour.
Grate the Parmesan cheese.

Cooking

Now that we have our ingredients prepped, it’s time to bring this dish to life. Follow these steps:

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
Add the sliced Italian sausages and cook until browned.
Add the minced garlic, tomato paste, basil chili flakes to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant.
Add in white wine. Cook on med high for 4-5 mins to cook out alcohol
Add heavy cream and continue simmering
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add in fresh grated parmesan and reserved pasta water
Add cooked and drained pasta to sauce
Serve with fresh basil and more parmesan for topping

Tips and Tricks

Here’s a little secret to take this dish to the next level: When you’re simmering the sauce, add a pinch of sugar. It balances out the acidity from the tomatoes and enhances the overall flavor of the dish. And don’t forget, always save some pasta water. The starchy water can help to loosen the sauce and make it cling better to the pasta.

Original Recipe

I first heard about this recipe from tiktok a few years ago. I later on found this recipe from JawnsICooked and it is perfect. I’ve made it many times.

Conclusion

And there you have it—a spicy, flavorful, and satisfying Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta. It’s an incredible mix of flavors that will surely impress your family and friends. So, why wait? Get into the kitchen and start cooking! Bon appétit!

The festive cheer of Christmas is often accompanied by a delightful array of decorations that transform our homes into magical winter wonderlands. However, as the season ends and the New Year begins, we’re faced with the task of taking down these decorations and storing them until next Christmas. Organizing Christmas decorations effectively helps in maintaining their longevity, makes setting up for next Christmas easier, and keeps your home clutter-free. In this blog post, I’ve linked some of my favorite decor organizers!

Decoration Organization

Storage Solutions for Christmas Lights

Christmas lights are a crucial part of festive decorations. They bring a sparkle to our homes, but storing them can be a hassle. One of the best ways to store Christmas lights is by wrapping them around cardboard or paper rolls and securing them with tape. This method ensures that the lights remain untangled, and you can easily pull out just the length you need for next year’s decorating.

Alternatively, investing in storage reels or bags designed specifically for Christmas lights can also make organization easier. These allow you to wind the lights around them, keeping them neat and protected from damage.

Organizing Ornaments

Ornaments are delicate and need to be handled with care when storing. One way to do this is by using plastic or cardboard dividers in storage boxes. These separators keep the ornaments from bumping into each other, preventing breakage and keeping them organized.

For those who have a large collection of ornaments, investing in an ornament storage box can be useful. These boxes come with multiple compartments and layers, making it easy to store and access many ornaments.

Christmas Tree Storage

Storing an artificial Christmas tree can take up a lot of space. One solution is storing the tree in its original box if you still have it. If not, investing in a specialized Christmas tree storage bag or box can make organization easier and keep your tree protected from dust and damage. If your original box is wearing thin or you’re looking for an upgrade, I’ve found a fantastic Christmas tree storage bag that’s durable, spacious, and easy to use. This Christmas tree storage bag is an excellent investment to keep your tree safe from dust and damage, making the post-Christmas cleanup a breeze. Its sturdy construction and significant capacity make it a must-have for any Christmas decoration organization arsenal. Check it out!

Wreath Organization

Wreaths are another holiday decoration that need special attention while storing as they can easily get crushed or tangled. It’s best to store wreaths in a hard plastic wreath storage container that can protect against dust, dampness, and accidental crushing. If you have limited storage space or many wreaths, a handy solution could be a hanging storage bag. It helps keep the shape of the wreath intact while utilizing vertical storage space.

Happy Holidays

As we draw the curtain on this season’s festivities, I hope you all have an incredible holiday season, filled with joy, warmth, and cherished moments with your loved ones. I trust that you found this blog helpful in easing the post-holiday cleanup and preparing for a fresh start in the new year. Remember, proper organization and storage can extend the life of your favorite holiday decorations, ensuring they continue to bring joy for many years to come. Here’s to welcoming the new year with open arms and hearts full of hope!

The holiday season is upon us, and it’s time to spread joy through thoughtful gifts. Whether you’re a woman looking for the perfect self-care treat or someone searching for the best gifts for the women in your life, we’ve got you covered. Our comprehensive Christmas gift guide features curated items from fashion to beauty, fitness, and kitchen essentials. Let’s dive in!

Fashion Items

In the realm of fashion, we’ve handpicked some stylish and practical pieces that any woman would love to add to her wardrobe.

1. Free People Bag: This bag is my go-to for my everyday essentials. Can fit so many things and easy to carry.

2. Dagne Dover Belt Bag: For women who value functionality without compromising style, the Dagne Dover belt bag is the perfect pick. Its sleek design and ample storage make it a practical fashion statement.

Lululemon Align leggings: These soft leggings are perfect for any activity, from yoga to running errands. They come in a variety of colors and lengths, making them a versatile addition to any wardrobe.

4. Half- Zip Hoodie Lululemon: This comfortable and versatile hoodie is perfect for any occasion, from running errands to lounging at home.

Beauty Products

For the beauty enthusiast, these products are sure to please.

1. Rosie Jane Perfume: A scent can be a powerful memory trigger, making Rosie Jane perfume a thoughtful and personalized gift. This line of fragrances is known for its unique, sophisticated scents that are perfect for any occasion.

Wellness

If she’s a fitness enthusiast or planning a new year resolution to get more active, consider these:

1. Hoka Shoes: Known for their advanced shoe technologies, Hoka shoes ensure maximum comfort and support for any workout. Giving a pair of these means gifting comfort and long-term health benefits.

2. Hatch Restore: A good night’s sleep is crucial for overall wellness. Help your loved one get better rest with the Hatch Restore, a smart sleep aid that promotes relaxation and improved sleep patterns

Oura Ring: For the tech-savvy fitness enthusiast, the Oura ring is a must-have. This smart ring tracks various health metrics such as sleep, activity levels, and heart rate, providing valuable insights for optimizing wellness goals.

Kitchen Essentials

For the home chefs or those who simply love a well-equipped kitchen, these items are sure to delight.

1. Caraway Pans: Non-toxic and aesthetically pleasing, Caraway pans are the perfect blend of functionality and style for any kitchen. Known for their even heat distribution and easy clean-up, these pans are a gift that keeps on giving.

Electric Tea Kettle: For the tea lover, an electric tea kettle is a must-have. It heats water quickly and efficiently, making enjoying a hot cup of tea effortless. Look for one with different temperature settings for optimal brewing.

Our ultimate women’s Christmas gift guide aims to make your holiday shopping as stress-free as possible. These curated items ensure that you can find the perfect gift for any woman in your life, no matter her interests or style. So go ahead and explore these items, share the holiday spirit, and make this Christmas a memorable one! Happy shopping!

One of the most common questions I have gotten since having Rocco, is “What pump are you using?” I have been using the Spectra S1 pump and really like it so far! I have really enjoyed pumping since it gives me peace of mind knowing how much Rocco is eating. It has been working really well for us thus far. I really like the Spectra pump and love using it with the pumping bras. Those have really been essential because I can use the pump hands free. Another item I have loved using is the Lansinoh ice packs that really help when your milk is coming in. That can be a really painful process so putting these ice packs in your bra really help with the pain during that process. I also ordered a bunch of extra pump parts to make it so I always have one handy. This has helped a lot too. Then, we will use this container for the dishwasher to store all the pump parts which makes the cleaning process so much easier. Additionally, I have been then using the Medela bags to store the milk. Then we put the milk in this plastic tray in our freezer. That system has worked really well for us with Rocco.

Ice Packs|Bra Pads|Bottles|Burp Cloths|Milk Bags|Storage Container|Black Pumping Bra|Nude Pumping Bra|Extra Pump Parts| Dishwasher Storage|Robe|

Baby Rocco is here and we are over the moon. He is the sweetest little guy and we are so happy with our little family. Julian is loving being a big brother and it is so cute to watch. Over the past couple weeks we have been relying on some essentials! I am rounding up everything below that we have actually been using and loving with Rocco. These have all been truly “essential”.

Kyte Baby Outfit|O2 Baby outfit| Halo Sleepsack|Dock-a-tot|Burp Cloth|Barefoot dreams blanket|Carrier|

Glass bottles|Drying rack|Scrubber|Face Balm|Water Wipes|

We have been loving this pack and play. It is so nice we can roll it into whatever room we are in and change him there. Then when he is older the bottom part can be used as a traditional pack and play. It has come in so handy for diaper changes throughout the day.

For baby boy #2, I decided to put together nurses baskets for the staff at the hospital and my doctor’s office. The nurses and staff at both the hospital and doctor’s office have done and do so much to make sure you are safe, comfortable and well taken care of during your experience there. This is one way to say “thank you” for all they do! I filled the baskets with mostly blue items for baby boy. I added snacks for them, hair ties, some beauty goodies, Liquid IV for hydration, dry shampoo, candy, gum, chapstick, things like that! Anything that is helpful for long shifts or after!

Pop Corners|Eos Chapstick|Batiste dry shampoo|Gum |Hand Cream|Tula Moisturizer|Tula Cleanser|Kate Somerville| Mascara|Liquid IV|

This is just a fun way to say “Thank You” to all the hospital staff. I tried to include items that I knew would be helpful on long shifts or ways that they can have a little self care after. To assemble the baskets, I filled the bottom with the “grass” like in Easter Baskets, and then put things like candy on the bottom too, to help prop up the items in the basket. That way a lot of the fun stuff was on more of display and the items were able to be seen better. It was a fun process!

With baby #2 arriving VERY soon. I put together my hospital bag the other night and wanted to share a few of the items that I will be taking with me to the hospital. I remember when I had Julian it was good to have a slip on shoe so I love the ones I found below. I also found this cute mask bag to keep all the masks in that I will use for the hospital. Of course, I had to include my favorite “mama” tie dye robe too! There are also essentials like the Frida Mom postpartum kit, which I have heard great things about! I also included a link to our latest pregnancy update you don’t want to miss, below!

My Favorite Turkey Chili Recipe