Cinnamon Ginger Hot Cocoa

Hot cocoa is one on my most favorite things IN THE WORLD! And when the weather starts to get chilly, I start to get the itch for this savory treat. I have to admit that I have a long history of quick cocoa fixes, but I was determined to create a recipe that I loved early in the season this …

Maca Smoothie

Maca is a Peruvian root grown in the Andes mountains, and is rich in Vitamins B, C, E, calcium, iron and amino acids. Need a quick boost? Add a bit of maca powder to your morning smoothie and enjoy the simple pleasures of this superfood. Blend the following ingredients: 1 tsp maca 1 banana 1-1 1/2c frozen mango & pineapple chunks 1 giant …

Cream of Mushroom Soup

I am always looking for simple solutions for meals. Mark and I both have really packed schedules and if we don’t have some quick options, eating out always becomes so appealing! Soup recipes are a great go-to. I adapted one I found from mushroom-appreciation.com and it was so-very-good (and it’s super simple and quick, too). Enjoy! 24 oz cleaned and …

Power Smoothie

I was at Whole Foods and I had the thought “it must be lucky to drink fresh coconut water in the new year” so I bought one…and pomegranates make a regular appearance in our house this time of year. I was so excited to enjoy this smoothie and while it wasn’t pretty (red pomegranates and green greens not the best …

A little bacon in my smoothie….

Balance & Thrive is all about finding balance so that you can thrive in your life. Finding balance is health and indulgence. Finding balance prioritizes simplicity. Finding balance is fun. Our New Years day smoothie was a perfect example of balance – packed full of healthy nutrients and superfoods garnished with a little bacon indulge. Mark was pleasantly surprised by the …

Spicy Soba Noodles

Wow! This past week has been a whirlwind of Christmas celebrating. I loved spending time with some of my favorite people, even if it felt a bit like speed dating at times – a quick hello, what’s new and then on to the next. While I enjoyed time with family and friends, I was challenged at times switching up my …

Marko’s Crepes

1/2 cup Almond flour 1/2 cup Coconut flour 6 eggs 3/4 cup Almond milk (if you tolerate dairy milk works here too) 2 tsp honey Mix all ingredients and beat until smooth consistency. Drizzle olive oil on nonstick pan and poor in batter to lightly coat bottom of pan. When you see the bubbles throughout flip and cook on other …

Lentil Soup

Who loves soup? I sure do. Especially when it’s chilly chilly outside. This lentil soup was simple to prepare and again provides you the flexibility to make it your own. Add in some diced tomatoes or Swiss chard or play around with the seasonings. Use this as a base and get creative. This was dinner with a simple salad. Tasty …

Breakfast Bars

Everyone is busy busy these days and I am all too often hearing that there is “no time” for healthful eating. I get it, I have a lot on my plate too, but prioritizing your health is a must…because as we all know, when your body has had enough it will force you to take a time out. Running around …