live simply.

There is not much more to say, except that I am trying to do this...

Yes trying to surf more (a must), but also re-teaching myself how to live more simply and enjoy life and what (and who) I've been blessed with. 

Life is more fun with a surfboard under your feet, and friends to share the ocean with! 

Original art by BXC Design

blackened chicken & cilantro lime quinoa

Thanks to Pinterest and Sarcastic Cooking, I made this delicious and summery recipe last night.

1. Mix the following rub for 2-3 chicken breasts, depending on size:

• 1/2 tsp of paprika
• 1/4 tsp of salt
• 1/4 tsp of pepper
• 1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper
• 1/4 tsp of onion powder (which I didn't have, so used garlic powder instead)
• 1/4 tsp of cumin

2. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with the dry mixture, then add olive oil to a pan or skillet and cook the chicken. 

3. Cook 1 cup of quinoa (rinsed) in 2 cups of organic chicken stock

4. Quinoa dressing: 

• Juice and zest from 2 limes
• A dash of salt and pepper
• 2 T of cilantro, chopped

5. Mix the dressing into the cooked quinoa

6. Serve the chicken on top of the quinoa

7. For added flavor, make this avocado cream sauce: 

• Flesh from an avocado 
• 2 T of Greek yogurt
• Puree in a blender of food processor until smooth. 

8. Serve on top of the chicken 

Bon appetite!

coconut french toast with coconut syrup

So this morning I was craving something coconut-y, and found a recipe for french toast with coconut syrup. Not the healthiest of breakfasts, but it was worth it. The recipe was from Cooking a la Mode (click link for original recipe), but I changed a few things based on what I had and to make it seem a little healthier in my mind.

Here's my revised version:

• 4 eggs
• 1 cup almond milk
• 2 tsp vanilla
• 2 T coconut flour
• Ezekiel bread

Combine ingredients, then dip both sides of the bread in mixture and place on a hot greased pan or skillet. Flip over when browned. 

Serve with hot coconut syrup:

• 1/2 cup butter
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp coconut extract

Place butter, buttermilk, and sugar in a saucepan. Stir over medium heat until butter melts and sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil and boil for one minute.

Remove from heat, and add baking soda and extract, stirring constantly. It will bubble up so make sure you pan is large enough. Continue to stir syrup and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. 

Bon appetite!