Fancy vinegars and quality olive oils.
Aged balsamic vinegars and cold pressed or flavoured olive oils are incredibly trendy right now. They are a great addition to any kitchen pantry and with a simple drizzle can significantly enhance the taste of everyday dishes. These types of products can found at most grocery stores and all specialty food stores.
Gourmet coffee beans.
Another trendy food item this year is specialty coffee beans. Whether you prefer fair-trade, certified organic or flavoured, there is something for everyone. Just be sure that the recipient actually has the proper coffee equipment to use them. In a world of Nespresso and Keurig fanatics you can never be too sure!
Homemade spice mixes.
A quick internet search will bring up a never-ending list of DIY spice combinations. We love the idea of speeding up meal prep for friends and family. Some of our favourite examples include: taco seasonings, steak spices, chili seasonings, chai tea spice blends, salad dressing spice mixes, meat rubs, etc. Package the spice mixes in small mason jars or spice bottles and add a ribbon for a festive touch!
Potted herbs
A small pot of rosemary or thyme this time of year makes a great gift for those who enjoy cooking. Both of these herbs are found in many fall and winter dishes such as turkeys, roasted chickens and stews. These plants can be tricky to find this time of year, but are most often found in select grocery and garden stores.
Specialty teas.
You can never have too much tea! Around this time of year pretty much all tea shops offer gift sets of tea which make perfect host/hostess gifts. They also usually have several festive limited-time only seasonal blends that are perfect for winter.
What are your favourite go to host/hostess gifts? Let us know in the comments below!
– Monica & Lisa
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You likely will not be able to tolerate your favourite sushi rolls because of the rice and seaweed wrap, however there are several other equally satisfying options on every Asian-style restaurant menu to consider.
Indulge in an order of tartar or sashimi. These rice-less options are easier to digest.
Don’t be afraid to ask if your favourite sushi rolls can be made with a cucumber wrap instead of the traditional seaweed wrap. This is often a ‘low carb’ option on sushi menus.
Order a side of edamame beans. These soybeans are not only a good source of protein, but they are also rich in fibre.
Try a protein rich Asian soup. Asian-style restaurants often have a traditional soup with eggs, tofu, chicken, and/or shrimp. Prioritize the solid pieces and leave most of the broth behind.
Salmon or tuna salad. Most sushi restaurants have a simple green salad with a seared piece of fish and a flavourful salad dressing.
Sandwiches & Wraps·
Choose a sandwich on toasted bread. If it is a large sandwich, remove the top piece of bread. Great options include: chicken salad, egg salad, tuna salad and deli meats.
Wraps are also a good option. Opt for baked chicken rather than crispy chicken.
Breakfast egg sandwiches
Choose a breakfast wrap or a toasted english muffin sandwich. Skip the bacon and sausage.
Salad
Almost all restaurants now have a green salad with chicken. Again, opt for grilled chicken instead of crispy chicken.
Other high protein options include: taco salads, chickpea salads and bean salads.
Chili
Whether you choose the vegetarian or meat version, chili packs a lot of protein. They are also very easy to digest making them the perfect option if you have recently transitioned to solid food.
Here are some other helpful tips to challenge those old fast food habits:
Skip the combo option… yes, even if it’s cheaper!
Don’t order a drink. You will be less tempted to drink and eat at the same time if you don’t have a refreshing beverage staring you down during your meal.
Eat in the restaurant instead of in the car. If you are driving and eating, food is more likely to block. You can’t be mindful if you are multitasking!
Choose foods described as: grilled, baked, sautéed, broiled, steamed, boiled, etc. more often. These cooking methods are lower in calories.
Many corner stores and gas stations now have ‘grab and go’ options in their fridges such as sandwiches, salads, protein shakes, yogurt parfaits, etc. Next time you get gas, make a mental note of 3 appropriate meal options you could choose if you were in a pinch.
Bon appétit!
