My Favorite Simple, Clean Eating Recipe!

Simple, fast and healthy…oh did I forget affordable? These are four key words that make me ecstatic when I’m cooking or looking for new recipes to try. The meal I am about to share with you has become a staple in my meal planning, and was inspired by my roommate, Renee. Let me introduce you to Cauliflower Fried Rice.

Now I am not sure about you, but I tried food processing cauliflower florets one time, and it created the biggest kitchen mess of all time. Thankfully, my favorite grocery store, Trader Joe's, now has Cauliflower Rice already pre-chopped and ready to go. The other great thing about Trader Joe’s is that it has pre-cut mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, mushrooms, carrots, onions etc.) saving you from extra dish washing and time spent chopping various veggies to put in your rice mix. The only other ingredients you need? A little sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic and of course, eggs, to get some protein in the mix. Just imagine this recipe as the healthy version of Benihana’s fried rice. 

This is one of those recipes where I just wing it. First, I get a large pan and put it over medium heat with some sesame oil (about a tablespoon), chopped garlic, and then dump in the mixed veggies. I cook the veggies down for about 5 minutes and then I dump in the bag of cauliflower rice. While those cooking, I grab another pan and scramble about 3-4 eggs. Once the eggs are cooked I mix it in with the cauliflower and veggie mix and cook it for about another 5 minutes, while adding a couple tablespoons of soy sauce. I wouldn’t recommend dumping the whole bottle of soy sauce on the mixture, but rather adding it in stages to see if you like the taste/flavor. If you add too much it’ll be soggy. After a little taste test your cauliflower fried rice is good to go. Bon Appetite!

P.S. If you’re not in a daring mood and are looking for a little more guidance, just click this link to find a great starter recipe as a guide for your first time around!

 

 

A Bite of the Big Apple

Yes, I am talking about the food of New York.  Anyways, I was fortunate enough to pay a visit to my brother who lives in Williamsburg and I wanted to share my foodie experience in the Big Apple. You should check out these eateries if you have a chance. 

Breakfast/Brunch

Egg: I agree that there are several amazing breakfast and brunch places in New York to eat at, but if you’re hanging in Brooklyn, don’t miss Egg. I ordered the Eggs Rothko, which is an egg cooked inside brioche bread topped with cheddar cheese... YUM. My brother ordered the French toast, which honestly was to die for. Okay maybe that’s because I’m like buddy the Elf and overdo it with the syrup, but the bread slices themselves were fluffy and just melted in my mouth.  Right next door to Egg is an overpriced trendy chocolate shop that you can get cute gifts for friends. Also, don’t forget to head towards the water and get one of the best panoramic views of NYC.

Snack

Little Collins: This little hole in the wall in Midtown East café has a whopping 4.5 stars on Yelp.  Little Collins is famous for their avocado toast. I know what you’re thinking- why should I pay $8.00 for someone to smash an avocado and smear it on toasted bread? Little Collins perfects the Smash by adding feta cheese, pepitas, chilli flakes, parsley and some other ingredients that allow this midday snack to be packed with flavor. If you’re shopping on 5th Avenue, I recommend straying off the beaten path to Little Collins for a quick snack break.

Dinner

Xixa: Located on the south side of Williamsburg, Xixa (pronounced sheeksa) is an unconventional Mexican tapas restaurant with an ultra chic and low-key vibe. The food is tapas style, which is great because then you have the chance to try a bunch of different dishes. You can customize your drink based on homemade infused alcohols they have. We ordered everything from the famous grilled carrots and arctic char ceviche to the braised short rib and churros for dessert.  This is a hidden gem in Williamsburg.

Special Occasions

Momofuku Milk Bar: I have been obsessing over the Momofuku Milk Bar cakes since I first saw someone post a picture of it on Instagram. The thing about this cake is you cant buy it by the slice or on the West coast, so I had to wait until a special occasion to get a 6 inch, overpriced birthday cake for my 25th. Needless to say this cake was probably one of the best cakes I have ever taken a bite of. If there’s someone you really care about and you want to treat them to something sweet when you’re in NYC, order a Momofuku birthday cake. I promise you will not be disappointed.