I hope you are having a great weekend! Make sure you check out this week’s coaching sessions- I’m changing up the times and topics. Keep going.🤍

What’s Cooking this Week?

Sweet potatoes are one of my favorite vegetables to incorporate into recipes whenever possible. You can stuff them, use them as a base for bowls, incorporate them into tacos, add them as a topper for salads, or use them as a side. Whether stuffed, used as a base for bowls or tacos or simply served on the side of a salad, they add flavor and nutrition. 

While meal prepping with sweet potatoes may seem like a pain, it’s easier more accessible with a few simple strategies. Try batch roasting them at the beginning of the week or making roasted sweet potato cubes. And did you know that sweet potatoes can be frozen for up to four months?

I love incorporating sweet potatoes into my diet because they are the perfect carb. They are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals and support digestive health, boost the immune system, and reduce inflammation. Their low glycemic index means they provide sustained energy levels without causing spikes in blood sugar. 

This recipe is delicious! You can use the same cooking method with any spice and protein you enjoy. I love creating a Mexican version. See my homemade taco seasoning below. Consider doubling this recipe, then place your additional servings into meal-prep containers to reheat for fast, healthy meals all week!

Make your taco seasoning- it’s simple and a lot healthier than store-bought. Try it and let me know what you think!

â—¦ 1 tablespoon chili powder
â—¦ 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
â—¦ 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
â—¦ 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
â—¦ 1/2 teaspoon paprika
â—¦ 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
â—¦ 1 teaspoon sea salt
â—¦ 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

PHOTO CREDIT: ©CleanFoodCrush.com

Sweet Potato Quinoa Tots

Have you ever repurposed sweet potatoes into tots? This recipe is family-friendly and fun to eat! It’s an easy weeknight option and a perfect appetizer, finger food, or main dish (have it as a side with any protein!). I make them with pantry ingredients I always have on hand, and they can be made ahead of time as part of meal prep or even frozen.

PHOTO CREDIT: ©eatingbyelaine.com

Beef & Sweet Potato Bowls- Easy Meal Prep Idea!

This is a repeat because we can’t stop talking about it! Cafe Member Shawn’s favorite lunch—a balanced bowl with lean ground beef, roasted potatoes, and roasted beets.

Shawn’s tip? Opt for frozen lean ground beef from Costco, a wallet-friendly protein option for family meals. He browns the meat in multiple servings for convenience. To streamline his process, Shawn preps the potatoes by microwaving them first and then roasting them at 400 degrees for about 15 minutes. This simple method saves time and makes it easier to cut the sweet potatoes.

Shawn tops his bowl with G Hughes® Sugar-Free Original BBQ Sauce—a savory touch without the added sugar. For an extra crunch and sweetness, he includes roasted beets. He cuts the beets into cubes and roasts them at 400 for about 15 minutes.

French Onion Chicken Skillet

This is one of my favorite recipes! The beef broth and caramelized onions make it rich and comforting. This french onion chicken recipe can be made in one skillet or one pan. I usually add extra chicken so there’s more protein to go around. You can store this French onion chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-4 days. 

PHOTO CREDIT: ©healthyfoodiegirl.com

This Week’s Coaching Sessions- Changing it Up!

Use the Coaching Sessions for help or coaching support- think of me as your Concierge Nutritionist! I’m here to answer questions and connect you with others on their healthy journey. Can’t make a call but have a topic or question? Email amy@foodandmoodlab.com. And, you can just listen in too- no video required, just drop in. All sessions will be recorded and can be accessed from the member resources page.

Please note the new times for the coaching sessions this week.

As a reminder, this week’s coaching sessions will be on:

Monday, 4/29 @ 12 ET – Meal Plans- When (If) to Use One and DIY
Thursday, 5/2 @ 7 PM ET- How Food Actually Affects Your Mood, Top Foods for Mental Health
Saturday, 5/4 @10 ET- Meal Prep & Member Q&A

Wellness Sessions- In Case You Missed Them!

Over the past few weeks, I’ve hosted a few “teaching kitchens” on various health and wellness topics. Check them out, and feel free to share them with friends.

What health and wellness topics are important to you, and what would you like to learn about? Anything goes! Tell me.Â