Lauren Brooks Fitness

Don't you dare throw your coconut flesh away!  When I was pregnant with my first baby 6 years ago, I some how stumbled upon fresh young coconuts.  The market near my house would actually open them for you if you requested it.  They would stick a straw in the top and I would drink the coconut water as I walked around shopping.  Well by the time I was done shopping I had already finished it and was craving another one.  The fresh coconut water that came out of these amazing coconuts were pure heaven to me and extremely hydrating.  I was extremely thirsty during my pregnancy to the point even water wouldn't satisfy me.  Now many times I would eat the flesh, but sometimes my stomach wouldn't be in the mood for it.  I actually use to just throw the coconut away. BIG MISTAKE!  Scoop the flesh out and put it in the freezer for homemade smoothies and ice cream treats. Here is a smoothie I just made this morning before my strength and ...

I'm in Love! This is for all the quinoa lovers out there. This has to be my favorite sweet quinoa dish of all times.  It can be eaten cold as a salad, main dish, or as a warm side dish. Perfect for the summer time, but I will definitely be eating this all year around.  This healthy recipe was inspired by a homemade quinoa salad I purchased at a local farmers market.  The flavors mixed together so beautifully that I had to hold back in finishing the whole thing.  It's completely vegetarian and vegan with little to no salt at all.  It makes up a complete protein, while also providing healthy fats, and a superb amount of antioxidants from the dark cherries.  Even my 15 month old loved it! Here is the recipe I came up with.  It's always nice when you can use some of the foods right from your own yard. I used a fresh orange off my tree and lots of fresh mint.  Yummy! 1 cup of Quinoa  (inca red or regular) 3/4 fresh squeezed orange juice 1....