Caprese Skewers

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Updating as we go

Early in 2021, I relocated and started updating my website; I’ve been making changes and improving everything as I go. This recipe is one of the many things I’ve tried to improve.

Simple and fancy looking

Who doesn’t love something that looks fancy, tastes delicious, and is so simple to make that you could leave the kids to make it? I know that I do. These caprese skewers are one of the easiest recipes ever, and they always gather compliments when I make them. No cooking is needed; you need some chopping and skewers, and you are good to go. Did I mention how cool they look on the plate? 

Ideal for company

I first made these skewers for a UFC pay-per-view event when I was hanging out with friends. Making food for fights isn’t as easy as you might think. You spend half the day with your eyes glued to the action and afraid to look at what you are eating because you know you will miss that knockout shot. The main appeal of these skewers is that they are finger food, and you don’t need to take your eyes off the fights while you eat them. Grab, munch and repeat. The first time I made them, the plate was cleared in a single round, which usually means they are a hit. They have been on the menu for pay-per-view parties ever since.

Caprese skewer recipe

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
  • 10 cherry tomatoes
  • 5 mini mozzarella balls
  • 10 fresh basil leaves
  • mini skewers

Instructions

Cut the cherry tomatoes in half.

Cut in half any of the large basil leaves.

Cut in half the mozzarella balls.

Take a mini skewer and thread on a piece of mozzarella, then a basil leaf and a piece of tomato, repeat to fill up the skewer.

Repeat with the remaining ingredients.

Lay out the skewers and drizzle them with the balsamic glaze before serving.

Caprese skewers

  • Rating: ★★★★★
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“Simple



Credit: Cath @ easycleaneats 

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
  • 10 cherry tomatoes
  • 5 mini mozzarella balls
  • 10 fresh basil leaves
  • mini skewers

Directions

  1. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half.
  2. Cut in half any of the large basil leaves.
  3. Cut in half the mozzarella balls.
  4. Take a mini skewer and thread on a piece of mozzarella, then a basil leaf and a piece of tomato, repeat to fill up the skewer.
  5. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
  6. Lay out the skewers and drizzle them with the balsamic glaze before serving.

Nutrition

Per Serving: 50 calories; 2.6g fat; 3.2g carbohydrates; 3g protein

Equipment

  • Knife
  • Chopping board
  • Skewers
  • Plate 

Nutritional disclaimer

Nutrition information is provided as an estimate based on the ingredients used and available in my area (New Zealand). The nutritional information is here to help you understand the recipe; I use MyFitnessPal to generate my estimates. For more accurate nutritional information, please use a nutritional calculator with the ingredients in your area.

Seed crackers

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Nut-free option blurb

I am one of those unfortunate people who are allergic to not only peanuts but also tree nuts. When it comes to food options, not having nuts on the menu can be challenging at times and frustrating at others. There are so many foods I would love to try or eat regularly, but will never get the chance, thanks to nuts. Not eating nuts doesn’t have to be the end of the world; there are always replacements and alternatives that mean you can have a nut-free option. This recipe is my attempt to create a nut-free version of a usually nut-packed recipe.

Crackers are back on the menu

Crackers and cheese, oh, how I had missed thee. For a long time, crackers were off the menu because the wheat flour and sugar didn’t agree with my system. I wanted to find a suitable replacement that didn’t taste like cardboard.

Perfect cracker 

After a little trial and error, I came up with these nut-free crackers that are family-friendly and guilt-free. There are no fillers or gums in these crackers; the water and chia seeds bind everything together without ending up with soggy crackers. The recipe below creates plain and unflavoured crackers; they are an excellent starting point to add any flavour you want. 

Seed crackers
Seed crackers

Range of flavours

  • 1/2 tsp. salt, 1 tbsp. garlic powder and 1 tbsp. rosemary
  • 1 tbsp. paprika, 1/2 tsp. salt and 1 tsp. chilli flakes 
  • 1 tbsp. caraway seeds and 1 tbsp. ground coriander
  • 1 tsp. thyme, 1 tsp. garlic powder and 1/2 tsp. lemon zest

Seed crackers recipe

Seed crackers ingredients
Seed crackers ingredients

Ingredients

  • 100g sunflower seeds
  • 30g pumpkin seeds
  • 25g sesame seeds
  • 75g chia seeds
  • 250ml water

Instructions

In a bowl, mix chia seeds with water and let them sit for 10 minutes. The chia seeds will then soak up the water and become sticky.

In a food processor, blend half of the sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds until they are ground to a powder consistency.

Transfer the ground seeds to a bowl.

Add the remaining seeds to the bowl along with any seasoning and mix well.

Seed cracker mix ready to spread out
Seed cracker mix ready to spread out

Add the chia seed mix to the bowl and make sure it is well combined.

Preheat the oven to 170 degrees C/ 330 degrees F.

Line a baking tray with baking paper or a silicone liner and spread the seed mix over the tray. 

The mix should be thin but without holes.

Seed cracker mix ready for the oven
Seed cracker mix ready for the oven

Use a knife to score marks in the mix, making it easier to break into crackers later.

Bake for 1 hour at 170 degrees C/ 330 degrees F.

When the crackers are completely dry and a light golden colour, take them out of the oven. 

Allow the crackers to cool for a few minutes before breaking them along the score marks. 

Allow the crackers to cool completely before serving or storing.

Seed crackers
Seed crackers

“Seed

  • Rating: ★★★★★
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“Seed



Credit: Cath @ easycleaneats

Ingredients

  • 100g sunflower seeds
  • 30g pumpkin seeds
  • 25g sesame seeds
  • 75g chia seeds
  • 250ml water

Directions

  1. In a bowl, mix chia seeds with water and let them sit for 10 minutes. The chia seeds will then soak up the water and become sticky.
  2. In a food processor, blend half of the sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds until they are ground to a powder consistency.
  3. Transfer the ground seeds to a bowl.
  4. Add the remaining seeds to the bowl along with any seasoning and mix well.
  5. Add the chia seed mix to the bowl and make sure it is well combined.
  6. Preheat the oven to 170 degrees C/ 330 degrees F.
  7. Line a baking tray with baking paper or a silicone liner and spread the seed mix over the tray.
  8. The mix should be thin but without holes.
  9. Use a knife to score marks in the mix, making it easier to break into crackers later.
  10. Bake for 1 hour at 170 degrees C/ 330 degrees F.
  11. When the crackers are completely dry and a light golden colour, take them out of the oven.
  12. Allow the crackers to cool for a few minutes before breaking them along the score marks.
  13. Allow the crackers to cool completely before serving or storing.

Nutrition

Per Serving:50 calories; 4g fat; 2g carbohydrates; 2g protein

Try this with

  • Cheese
  • Dips

Equipment

  • Small mixing bowl
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Food processor or spice mill
  • Spatula 
  • Baking tray
  • Baking paper or silicone liner 

Nutritional disclaimer

Nutrition information is provided as an estimate based on the ingredients used and available in my area (New Zealand). The nutritional information is here to help you understand the recipe; I use MyFitnessPal to generate my estimates. For more accurate nutritional information, please use a nutritional calculator with the ingredients in your area.

Avocado tuna melts

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Do we have tuna? 

For a long time on a weekend, when I asked the question, ‘What do you want for lunch?’ The answer was ‘Do we have any tuna?’. I won’t go into how much I dislike it when people answer a question with a question. Let’s focus on the recurring request for tuna every weekend. Every week, the same request is made for a tuna cheese melt. I don’t have any issues providing tuna for lunch; I get bored with the leftover tuna in the fridge and don’t want to eat it. Life is too short to eat that much tuna. 

How to make tuna interesting 

I find tinned tuna very difficult to eat on its own. I know it is good for me, but it is so boring! I looked for an alternative to the standard tuna melt to make tuna more interesting. I came up with these avocado tuna melts. 

Two birds with one grill 

I figured that if I had the grill on to make tuna melts on bread for kids, there would be no downside to having a different kind of tuna melt myself. A quick rummage in the fridge later, and the avocado tuna melt was born. Avocado is the perfect ingredient that makes the tuna less dull and adds a creamy texture that stands up to the grill’s heat. 

If you want to use up those uneaten bits of tuna or that can in the pantry, give these melts a go. 

Avocado tuna melt recipe 

Avocado tuna melts ingredients

Ingredients 

  • 1 avocado 
  • 2 cans of tuna 
  • 2 tbsp. Parsley, chopped 
  • 1 tbsp. Lemon juice 
  • 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika 
  • 1/4 tsp. salt 
  • 1/4 tsp. black pepper 
  • 1/4 cup gruyere cheese, grated 
  • 2 tbsp. Chives, chopped 

Instructions

Preheat the grill on the highest setting. 

Cut the avocado in half lengthwise and remove the pit. 

Cut the avocado in half lengthwise
Cut the avocado in half lengthwise 
Cut the avocado in half lengthwise
Cut the avocado in half lengthwise 
Remove the pit
Remove the pit

Scoop out the avocado flesh into a large mixing bowl.

Scoop out the avocado flesh
Scoop out the avocado flesh
Scoop out the avocado flesh into a large mixing bowl.
Scoop out the avocado flesh into a large mixing bowl.

Put the avocado skins on a lined baking tray.

Put the avocado skins on a lined baking tray.
Put the avocado skins on a lined baking tray.

Mash the avocado with a fork.

Mash the avocado with a fork.
Mash the avocado with a fork.

Add the tuna to the avocado and mix.

Add the tuna to the avocado and mix.
Add the tuna to the avocado and mix.

In a bowl, add the parsley, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. 

In a the bowl add the parsley, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
In a the bowl add the  parsley, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. 

Mix well.

Mix well
Mix well

Add the tuna avocado mix back into the avocado skin. 

Add the tuna avocado mix back into the avocado skin.
Add the tuna avocado mix back into the avocado skin then bake

Grill for 5 minutes so that the tuna and avocado start to colour. 

Top the tuna mix with the cheese and grill again to melt the cheese. 

Top the tuna mix with the cheese and grill again to melt the cheese. 
Melt the cheese.
Melt the cheese. 

Garnish with chopped chives and serve. 

Garnish with chopped chives and serve. 

Avocado tuna melt

  • Servings: 4
  • Rating: ★★★★★
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Avocado is the perfect ingredient that makes the tuna boring, adds a creamy texture that stands up to the heat of the grill.



Credit: Cath @ easycleaneats

Ingredients

  • 1 avocado
  • 2 cans of tuna
  • 2 tbsp. Parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp. Lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. black pepper
  • 1/4 cup gruyere cheese, grated
  • 2 tbsp. Chives, chopped

Directions

  1. Preheat the grill on the highest setting.
  2. Cut the avocado in half lengthwise and remove the pit.
  3. Scoop out the avocado flesh and coarsely chop it.
  4. In a bowl, mix together the avocado, tuna, parsley, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Add the tuna avocado mix back into the avocado skin.
  6. Grill for 5 minutes so that the tuna and avocado start to colour.
  7. Top the tuna mix with the cheese and grill again to melt the cheese.
  8. Garnish with chopped chives and serve.

Nutrition

Per Serving: 240 calories; 17 g fat; 8 g carbohydrates; 17 g protein

Equipment  

  • Knife  
  • Chopping board  
  • Mixing bowl  
  • Spoon  
  • Fork  
  • Baking tray   
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Nutritional disclaimer

Nutrition information is provided as an estimate based on the ingredients used and available in my area (New Zealand). The nutritional information is here to help you understand the recipe; I use MyFitnessPal to generate my estimates. For more accurate nutritional information, please use a nutritional calculator with the ingredients in your area.

Banana bites

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Ready for a snack

I’m trying different things as snacks at the moment; I had been munching on yoghurt and fruit for a while, so I needed to switch things up a bit. I had a stack of bananas and some protein white chocolate in the cupboard, so I thought I would have a go at making my own banana bites. 

No peanut butter, thanks

I am one of those unfortunate people who is allergic to not only peanuts but also tree nuts. When it comes to food options, not having nuts on the menu can be challenging at times and frustrating at others. Not eating nuts doesn’t have to be the end of the world; there are always replacements and alternatives that give you a nut-free option. I’ve seen peanut butter banana bites all over the internet, but it was not an option for me. This recipe is my attempt to create a nut-free version of a usually nut-packed recipe.

Sunflower seed butter

Instead of using peanut butter, I decided to use my homemade sun butter as the alternative filling on my banana bites. As I am not a milk or dark chocolate fan, I decided to use my white chocolate for a perfect coating.

Banana bites recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 banana
  • 1/4 cup sun butter
  • 1 bar protein white chocolate

Instructions

Peel the banana and slice it into 26 pieces.

Line a baking sheet or flat plate with a silicone liner.

On half of the banana pieces, add a small dollop of the sun butter.

Top each piece that has sun butter on it with another piece of banana.

Place the banana in the freezer to harden the sun butter for about 15 minutes.

Before taking the banana bites from the fridge, melt the chocolate.

Take a small microwave-safe bowl and break up the chocolate.

Microwave the chocolate for 30 seconds at a time and mix between.

Repeat until the chocolate is melted and runny.

Take the banana bites from the freezer.

Dip half of each bite into the melted chocolate and place it back on the lined baking sheet.

Return the bites to the freezer for another 15 minutes.

Transfer the set bites to an airtight container and stop in the fridge for up to 3 days.

“Banana

  • Servings: 4
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Credit: Cath @ easycleaneats 

Ingredients

  • 1 banana
  • 1/4 cup sun butter
  • 1 bar protein white chocolate

Directions

Peel the banana and slice it into 26 pieces. Line a baking sheet or flat plate with a silicone liner. On half of the banana pieces, add a small dollop of the sun butter. Top each piece that has sun butter on it with another piece of banana. Place the banana in the freezer to harden the sun butter for about 15 minutes. Before taking the banana bites from the fridge, melt the chocolate. Take a small microwave-safe bowl and break up the chocolate. Microwave the chocolate for 30 seconds at a time and mix between. Repeat until the chocolate is melted and runny. Take the banana bites from the freezer. Dip half of each bite into the melted chocolate and place it back on the lined baking sheet. Return the bites to the freezer for another 15 minutes. Transfer the set bites to an airtight container and stop in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Per Serving: 156 calories; 11g fat; 11g carbohydrates; 5g protein

Equipment

  • Knife
  • Chopping board
  • Spoon
  • Small microwave-safe bowl
  • Fork
  • Baking sheet
  • Silicone liner or baking paper

Nutritional disclaimer

Nutrition information is provided as an estimate based on the ingredients used and available in my area (New Zealand). The nutritional information is here to help you understand the recipe; I use MyFitnessPal to generate my estimates. For more accurate nutritional information, please use a nutritional calculator with the ingredients in your area.

Avocado burger buns

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Ready for more grain-free bread, please

It’s time to break out the BBQ down here in the Southern Hemisphere, which means lots of burgers being made in the sunshine. I’m not looking to add all the carbs that go with the beef burgers, so I’ve been whipping up quick bread with a twist.  

Avocado abundance 

Whenever avocados are in season, I try to make the most of them. We all know that avocados have a small window of perfect ripeness, and they all hit that point simultaneously. So as not to waste them, I buy and then freeze the avocado pulp. To make my quick break a little more interesting, I’ve used some avocado pulp to make my burger buns extra. If you have fresh avocados, they also work for this recipe. If you use frozen avocado pulp, make sure it is completely thawed before folding it into the mix.

Burger buns recipe

Ingredients

  • 4 egg whites
  • 2 avocados 
  • 4 tbsp. buckwheat flour
  • 1/4 tsp. cream of tartar
  • 1/4 tsp. baking soda

Instructions

Preheat oven to 160 degrees C/ 320 degrees F. 

Line a baking tray with baking paper or a silicone liner. 

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites for 30 seconds using an electric whisk or stand mixer. 

Add the cream of tartar and keep whisking on high speed until stiff peaks form.

Place the avocado flesh into a food processor, and blend until you get a smooth puree.

Add the avocado puree to the egg whites.

Add the buckwheat flour and baking soda to the bowl with the egg whites.

Use a spatula to combine the ingredients together; fold the ingredients together, don’t stir them. 

You want a smooth, fluffy batter.

Divide the batter into 12 rounds on the baking tray.

Bake the buns for 15 – 20 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden.

Remove the buns from the oven and transfer the buns on the baking paper to a cooling rack.

Let the buns cool for 10 minutes before filling them up with burgers.

Remove the buns from the oven and transfer the buns on the baking paper to a cooling rack.

Let the buns cool for 10 minutes before filling them up with burgers.

“Avocado

  • Rating: ★★★★★
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“What



Credit: Cath @ easycleaneats 

Ingredients

  • 4 egg whites
  • 2 avocados 
  • 4 tbsp. buckwheat flour
  • 1/4 tsp. cream of tartar
  • 1/4 tsp. baking soda

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 160 degrees C/ 320 degrees F. 
  2. Line a baking tray with baking paper or a silicone liner. 
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites for 30 seconds using an electric whisk or stand mixer. 
  4. Add the cream of tartar and keep whisking on high speed until stiff peaks form.
  5. Place the avocado flesh into a food processor, and blend until you get a smooth puree.
  6. Add the avocado puree to the egg whites.
  7. Add the buckwheat flour and baking soda to the bowl with the egg whites.
  8. Use a spatula to combine the ingredients together; fold the ingredients together, don’t stir them. 
  9. You want a smooth, fluffy batter.
  10. Divide the batter into 12 rounds on the baking tray.
  11. Bake the buns for 15 – 20 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden.
  12. Remove the buns from the oven and transfer the buns on the baking paper to a cooling rack.
  13. Let the buns cool for 10 minutes before filling them up with burgers.

Nutrition

Per Serving: calories; 4g fat; 4g carbohydrates; 2g protein

Equipment

  • Baking tray
  • Whisk
  • Food processor
  • Spatula
  • Mixing bowl
  • Cooling rack

Nutritional disclaimer

Nutrition information is provided as an estimate based on the ingredients used and available in my area (New Zealand). The nutritional information is here to help you understand the recipe; I use MyFitnessPal to generate my estimates. For more accurate nutritional information, please use a nutritional calculator with the ingredients in your area.

Quick bread

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Bread 

Bread is a funny thing. It is one of the few foods I know that does not agree with me, but I still crave it regularly. I try my very best to avoid it, but some meals just feel incomplete without it. Burgers are one of the meals that don’t feel right without bread. I love a salad bun, but sometimes, I want a burger bun. 

Quick bread
Quick bread

Time to experiment

I’ve experimented with different recipes using gluten-free, grain-free flours over the years, but never felt satisfied with the result until now. Now, full disclaimer: This bread is not bread. These little ‘bread’ rounds are made from egg and cream cheese, no flour or yeast, but they are amazing. Don’t get me wrong—they are not ‘like’ bread—they are nothing like bread; they are better than bread in a few ways.

It’s bread Jim but not as we know it

Sorry, my inner geek was showing again. Now with the Star Trek reference out of the way, let us return to the bread. They might look like a squished meringue, but I can assure you they are not. They can stand up to a burger and make a great sandwich option without the downside of a flour-based bread, like feeling very full or bloated. They don’t break apart when you pick them up or crumble while you eat them like some gluten-free breads. The structural integrity of these little bread rounds is impressive. They have stood up to melted cheese, sauerkraut and even sliced tomatoes so far for me. If you are looking for an easy replacement for a slice of bread without feeling like you have cardboard as an alternative, give these bad boys a go.

Quick bread recipe

Quick bread ingredients

Ingredients

  • 3 eggs, separated
  • 3 Tbsp. cream cheese
  • ¼ tsp. cream of tartar
  • 1 tbsp. garlic powder

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 150 degrees C, 300 degrees F

Separate the eggs; there must be no yolk in the white.

In one bowl add the egg yolks, cream cheese and garlic powder.
In one bowl add the egg yolks, cream cheese and garlic powder.
whisk together the egg yolks, cream cheese and garlic powder until smooth.
Whisk together the egg yolks, cream cheese and garlic powder.
whisk together the egg yolks, cream cheese and garlic powder until smooth.
whisk together the egg yolks, cream cheese and garlic powder until smooth.

Whisk together the egg yolks, cream cheese, and garlic powder in a bowl until smooth.

In another bowl, whisk the cream of tartar and the whites; whisk until the whites are fluffy and form stiff peaks.

In another bowl add the egg whites and cream of tartar.
In another bowl add the egg whites and cream of tartar.
Whisk until the whites are fluffy and form stiff peaks.
Whisk until the whites are fluffy and form stiff peaks.

Mix one tablespoon of the egg whites into the egg yolk mix.

Take one tablespoon of the egg whites and mix it into the egg yolk mix.
Take one tablespoon of the egg whites and mix it into the egg yolk mix.

Slowly fold the egg whites into the egg yolk mixture, trying not to break down the egg whites too much.

Slowly fold the egg whites into the egg yolk mixture, try not to break down the egg whites too much.
Slowly fold the egg whites into the egg yolk mixture, try not to break down the egg whites too much.
Try not to break down the egg whites too much.
Try not to break down the egg whites too much.
Bread mix
Bread mix

Line a baking tray with baking paper

Spoon the mixture into 12 even disks.

Spoon the mixture into 12 even disks.
Spoon the mixture into 12 even disks.
Spoon the mixture into 12 even disks.
Spoon the mixture into 12 even disks.

Bake for 20 minutes in the middle of the oven.

Bake for 20 minutes in the middle of the oven.
Bake for 20 minutes in the middle of the oven.

Move the tray to the top of the oven for a minute to colour the bread, make sure to watch so that the bread does not burn.

Remove the bread from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack for 10 minutes before eating.

Remove the bread from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack for 10 minutes before eating.
Remove the bread from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack for 10 minutes before eating.

This bread will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 7 days.

Quick bread

  • Servings: 12
  • Rating: ★★★★★
  • Print

This keto friendly bread is easy to make and a great alternative for traditional bread



Credit: Cath @ easycleaneats

Ingredients

  • 3 eggs, separated
  • 3 tbsp. cream cheese
  • 1/4 tsp. cream of tartar
  • 1 tbsp. garlic powder

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 150 degrees C, 300 degrees F
  2. Separate the eggs; there must be no yolk in the white.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, cream cheese and garlic powder until smooth.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together the cream of tartar and the whites; whisk until the whites are fluffy and form stiff peaks.
  5. Take one tablespoon of the egg whites and mix it into the egg yolk mix.
  6. Slowly fold the egg whites into the egg yolk mixture, try not to break down the egg whites too much.
  7. Line a baking tray with baking paper
  8. Spoon the mixture into 12 even disks.
  9. Bake for 20 minutes in the middle of the oven.
  10. Move the tray to the top of the oven for a minute to colour the bread, make sure to watch so that the bread does not burn.
  11. Remove the bread from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack for 10 minutes before eating.
  12. This bread will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 7 days.

Nutrition

Per Serving: 58 calories; 2 g fat; 6 g carbohydrates; 3 g protein

Equipment

  • Fork
  • Spatula
  • Whisk
  • 2 bowls
  • Baking tray
  • Baking paper
  • Cookie cutter for discs
  • Cooling racks
  • Measuring spoons

Nutritional disclaimer

Nutrition information is provided as an estimate based on the ingredients used and available in my area (New Zealand). The nutritional information is here to help you understand the recipe; I use MyFitnessPal to generate my estimates. For more accurate nutritional information, please use a nutritional calculator with the ingredients in your area.

No rice sushi

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Sushi is back on the menu 

Sushi is one of the most popular options for lunch, and the sushi roll is, without doubt, one of the most recognisable forms. One of the best things about sushi is its versatility; you can have any filling you want and even have your sushi without rice. That is right, no rice sushi.

Swap the carbs for protein 

The best approach I have found when making no-rice sushi is swapping the rice for protein. For this recipe, I have swapped out the rice for cooked chicken, but it can also work with tuna, salmon, pork, or eggs. All you need to do is make sure the protein is mixed with something like mayo that makes it sticky enough to hold the sushi roll together. I love to add some seasoning to the protein to help add some flavour and a little kick.

Variety is the spice of life

The beauty of this recipe is that you can add anything you want (within reason) to the sushi as a filling. I love to mix things up to have a mix of vegetables that are crisp, crunchy and soft, so each bite is interesting to eat and packed with flavour.

No rice sushi

Ingredients

  • 5 nori sheets 
  • 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 2 tsp. Chicken seasoning
  • 3/4 cup easy mayo
  • A mix of vegetables cut into matchsticks 
    • 1 Carrot
    • 1 Celery stick
    • 1 Pepper
    • 1 Cucumber

Instructions

Mix the chicken, chicken seasoning and mayo in a bowl to form a thick paste. 

Take the sushi mat and place it on a clean flat surface.

Take a sheet of nori, and put the nori sheet smooth side down.

Take the filling of choice and spread it out on the nori sheet.

The mixture should be spread evenly, but not to the edge of the sheet at one end.

Take the additional fillings (vegetables, cheese, etc.) and lay them out on top of the spread-out filling.

Lay out the fillings in lines starting near the edge of the nori sheet. 

Each filling should have its own line with a space between the next line.

Have the sushi mat in front of you with the edge without filling furthest away from you.

Lift the edge of the mat up and use the mat to roll the edge of the nori over the first line of filling.

Make sure that the fillings are sticking together.

Tuck the nori into the roll and use the mat to continue rolling and tucking the nori; remove the mat from the roll as you go.

Move slowly so that the sushi roll is even.

Roll the sushi roll backwards and forward to seal it and keep it tight for cutting.

Let the sushi roll sit for a minute to make cutting easier.

Cut the roll into segments with a sharp, wet knife.

Serve and eat immediately.

No rice sushi

  • Servings: 28“
  • Rating: ★★★★★
  • Print

“One



Credit: Cath @ easycleaneats

Ingredients

  • 5 nori sheets
  • 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 2 tsp. Chicken seasoning
  • 3/4 cup easy mayo
  • Mix of vegetables cut into matchsticks
  • 1 Carrot
  • 1 Celery stick
  • 1 Pepper
  • 1 Cucumber

Directions

  1. Mix the chicken, chicken seasoning and mayo in a bowl to form a thick paste.
  2. Take the sushi mat and place it on a clean flat surface.
  3. Take a sheet of nori, and put the nori sheet smooth side down.
  4. Take the filling of choice and spread it out on the nori sheet.
  5. The mixture should be spread evenly, but not to the edge of the sheet at one end.
  6. Take the additional fillings (vegetables, cheese, etc.) and lay them out on top of the spread-out filling.
  7. Lay out the fillings in lines starting near the edge of the nori sheet.
  8. Each filling should have its own line with a space between the next line.
  9. Have the sushi mat in front of you with the edge without filling furthest away from you.
    10. 10.Lift the edge of the mat up and use the mat to roll the edge of the nori over the first line of filling.
  10. Make sure that the fillings are sticking together.
  11. Tuck the nori into the roll and use the mat to continue rolling and tucking the nori; remove the mat from the roll as you go.
  12. Move slowly so that the sushi roll is even.
  13. Roll the sushi roll backwards and forward to seal it and keep it tight for cutting.
  14. Let the sushi roll sit for a minute to make cutting easier.
  15. Cut the roll into segments with a sharp, wet knife.
  16. Serve and eat immediately.

Nutrition

Per Serving: 85 calories; 5g fat; 3g carbohydrates; 7g protein

Equipment

  • Sushi rolling mat
  • Spatula
  • Spoon  
  • Mixing bowl

Nutritional disclaimer

Nutrition information is provided as an estimate based on the ingredients used and available in my area (New Zealand). The nutritional information is here to help you understand the recipe; I use MyFitnessPal to generate my estimates. For more accurate nutritional information, please use a nutritional calculator with the ingredients in your area.

Apple chips

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Updating as we go

Early in 2021, I relocated and started updating my website; I’ve been making changes and improving everything as I go. This recipe is one of the many things I’ve tried to improve. 

Getting off the sugar train

Over the last year, sugar has crept back into my diet, and I’ve noticed the adverse effects of late. Between my busy work life and lots of travel for work, I have found it challenging to eat clean and stay healthy. I decided to return to the sugar-free wagon and start feeling more like myself again.

Easy snack

Apple chips are a cheap and easy snack. They make a great alternative to potato chips; they are sweet, crisp and slightly addictive. If you are looking for a way to get fruit into little people, they are a brilliant option. 

Apple chips recipe

Ingredients

  • 3 apples
  • 2 tsp. ground cinnamon

“Apple

  • Rating: ★★★★★
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Credit: Cath @ easycleaneats

Ingredients

  • 3 apples
  • 2 tsp. ground cinnamon

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 100 degrees C/ 220 degrees F.
  2. Line two baking trays with baking paper or a silicone liner.
  3. Cut the apples into thin slices, for uniform size slices you can use a mandolin.
  4. Spread the apple slices on the baking trays, making sure you have no overlapping edges.
  5. Sprinkle the ground cinnamon on top of the apples.
  6. Place the baking trays in the oven.
  7. Leave the chips in the oven for two hours; turn them over after the first hour.
  8. Let the chips cool before eating.
  9. Keep the chips in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week

Nutrition

Per Serving: 40 calories; 0 g fat; 11 g carbohydrates; 0 g protein

Equipment

  • Knife 
  • Chopping board
  • Mandolin
  • Baking tray
  • Baking paper or silicone liner

Nutritional disclaimer

Nutrition information is provided as an estimate based on the ingredients used and available in my area (New Zealand). The nutritional information is here to help you understand the recipe; I use MyFitnessPal to generate my estimates. For more accurate nutritional information, please use a nutritional calculator with the ingredients in your area.

Boiled eggs

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Perfect boiled eggs

Don’t you just hate it when you get a hard-boiled egg with that green ring inside; I think it has to be the most off-putting thing.

Getting the perfectly boiled egg is not difficult; the secret is that it is just about timing.

Soft or hard, it is all the same.

From much trial and error, I have found that the method for getting perfectly cooked soft and hard-boiled eggs is the same; the only difference is how long you leave the eggs in the water. To get perfect boiled eggs, here are some of the essential things to remember:

  • Start with cold water
  • Bring the water to the boil
  • Take the pan off the heat to let the eggs cook

Everyone has their own version of the “perfect egg”, but some guide times are a good place to start.

  • White just set and yolk runny 3 minutes
  • White set and yolk slightly runny 4 minutes
  • White set and yolk custard consistency 6 minutes
  • White set and yolk creamy consistency 10 minutes
  • Firm white and firm yolk 15 minutes

For the perfect boiled eggs, every time, here is what you need to do.

Place your eggs in a saucepan and fill the pan with cold water; you want at least 3cm of water over the top of the eggs.

Set the pan over high heat and bring the water to a boil. 

Set the pan over high heat and bring the water to a boil. 

You don’t need to cover the pan at this point.

Wait for the water to come to a boil.

Remove the pan from the heat and put a lid on the pan. 

Wait for the water to come to a boil.

Remove the pan from the heat and put a lid on the pan. 

Start the timer.

Remove the pan from the heat and put a lid on the pan. 

When the timer goes off, remove the eggs from the pan.

Gently tap the egg with a spoon to break the shell; don’t crack the shells if you have 3-minute eggs.

Place the eggs into a bowl of cold water; this will stop the eggs from cooking.

Let them sit in the cold water for at least 1 minute (and stop the green ring).

The eggs will then be ready to eat, peel off the shells, and you are ready to go.

Perfect eggs peeled and ready to eat

If you have any eggs that you will not use straight away, leave them in their shells and store them in the fridge.

Instant Pot / Pressure Cooker option

Equipment

  • Instant Pot
  • Trivet for the Instant Pot
  • Long-handled tongs

Instructions

Pour one cup of water into the bottom of the Instant Pot.

Place the trivet inside the pot.

Place the trivet inside the pot.

Place the eggs on the top of the trivet, leave space between them.

Place the eggs on the top of the trivet, leave space between them.

The eggs will be steamed during cooking.

Add the pressure cooking lid to the Instant Pot and make sure the lock is closed.

Set the timer for your desired consistency on the high pressure setting. 

Set the timer for your desired consistency on the high pressure setting. 
  • Soft-boiled eggs: 3 to 4 minutes at high pressure.
  • Medium-boiled eggs: 5 to 6 minutes at high pressure.
  • Hard-boiled eggs: 8 to 10 minutes at high pressure.

These times work for up to 10 eggs in an 8-quart Instant pot.

When the timer beeps, release the pressure immediately.

As soon as the pressure has dropped, remove the eggs from the pressure cooker using the tongs.

As soon as the pressure has dropped, remove the eggs from the pressure cooker using the tongs.

Place the eggs into an ice bath as quickly as possible.

Place the eggs into an ice bath as quickly as possible.
Perfect eggs peeled and ready to eat
  1. Pour one cup of water into the bottom of the Instant Pot.
  2. Place the trivet inside the pot.
  3. Place the eggs on the top of the trivet, leave space between them.
  4. The eggs will be steamed during cooking.
  5. Add the pressure cooking lid to the Instant Pot and make sure the lock is closed.
  6. Set the timer for your desired consistency on the high pressure setting. 
  7. Soft-boiled eggs: 3 to 4 minutes at high pressure.
  8. Medium-boiled eggs: 5 to 6 minutes at high pressure.
  9. Hard-boiled eggs: 8 to 10 minutes at high pressure.
  10. These times work for up to 10 eggs in an 8-quart Instant pot.
  11. When the timer beeps, release the pressure immediately.
  12. As soon as the pressure has dropped, remove the eggs from the pressure cooker using the tongs.
  13. Place the eggs into an ice bath as quickly as possible.

Egg wraps

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Egg wraps are a great option for breakfast lunch and dinner; you get to replace your standard wrap which is made with grains and chemicals with something that is just protein and healthy fats. 

I love eggs because they are so versatile and these wraps just reinforce how versatile they can be. 

Egg wraps ready for eating
Egg wraps ready for eating

The key to good egg wraps is using a flat non-stick pan, I have a crepe pan that I use to make my wraps, but any good quality non-stick frying pan will do. 

Egg wrap recipe

Egg wraps ingredient
Egg wraps ingredient

Ingredients

1 egg per wrap

The key to good egg wraps is using a flat non-stick pan, I have a crepe pan that I use to make my wraps, but any good quality non-stick frying pan will do.

Lightly oil the bottom of the pan and preheat the pan over a low to medium heat.

Lightly oil the bottom of the pan and preheat the pan over a low to medium heat.
Lightly oil the bottom of the pan and preheat the pan over a low to medium heat.

In a bowl, whisk your egg with a fork until the egg is smooth.

In a bowl, whisk your egg with a fork until the egg is smooth.
In a bowl, whisk your egg with a fork until the egg is smooth.

Pour the egg into the centre of your pan and use the back of your fork to distribute the egg evenly in the pan. You want the egg as thin as possible without creating holes.

Pour the egg into the centre of your pan
Pour the egg into the centre of your pan 
You want the egg as thin as possible without creating holes.
You want the egg as thin as possible without creating holes.
When the edges of the wrap start to lift, use a spatula to turn the wrap over.
When the edges of the wrap start to lift, use a spatula to turn the wrap over.

When the edges of the wrap start to lift, use a spatula to turn the wrap over.

When the edges of the wrap start to lift, use a spatula to turn the wrap over.
When the edges of the wrap start to lift, use a spatula to turn the wrap over.

Cook for about 45 seconds on the other side.

Cook for about 45 seconds on the other side.
Cook for about 45 seconds on the other side.

That is it; just repeat those steps for each wrap.

That is it; just repeat those steps for each wrap.
That is it; just repeat those steps for each wrap.
Place the wrap on a flat surface
Place the wrap on a flat surface
Add the filling
Add the filling
Wrap and eat
Wrap and eat

Egg wraps

  • Servings: 1
  • Rating: ★★★★★
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Egg wraps are an amazing low carb option that are quick and easy to make



Credit: Cath @ easycleaneats

Ingredients

  • 1 egg per wrap

Directions

  1. Instructions
  2. The key to good egg wraps is using a flat non-stick pan, I have a crepe pan that I use to make my wraps, but any good quality non-stick frying pan will do.
  3. Lightly oil the bottom of the pan and preheat the pan over a low to medium heat.
  4. In a bowl, whisk your egg with a fork until the egg is smooth.
  5. Pour the egg into the centre of your pan and use the back of your fork to distribute the egg evenly in the pan. You want the egg as thin as possible without creating holes.
  6. When the edges of the wrap start to lift, use a spatula to turn the wrap over.
  7. Cook for about 45 seconds on the other side.
  8. That is it; just repeat those steps for each wrap.That is it; just repeat those steps for each wrap.

Nutrition

Per Serving: 72 calories; 4.8 g fat; 0.4 g carbohydrates; 6.3 g protein

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Frying pan
  • Spatula  

Nutritional disclaimer

Nutrition information is provided as an estimate based on the ingredients used and available in my area (New Zealand). The nutritional information is here to help you understand the recipe; I use MyFitnessPal to generate my estimates. For more accurate nutritional information, please use a nutritional calculator with the ingredients in your area.