We did it! My family and I were able to eliminate processed foods from our diet. To be clear, the object was not to eliminate any type of food or particular ingredient, but rather, to eliminate chemicals that allow food to sit on our shelves. My motto is “If it can sit on a shelf for 5 years, how long to you think it will stay in your body?”
I thought it might be most helpful to share some of our favorite meals.
Greek Salad
Greek salads are some of the easiest meals to have on hand and throw together quickly. Ours typically has spinach, feta cheese crumbles, kalamata olives, tomatoes, and cucumber. We like a Mediterranean vinaigrette by Cindy’s Kitchen.
In my experience, the hardest part of eating well is having the right food on hand when you want it. The best part of this salad is that the feta and olives will stay good for a long time.
Fresh Tomatoes
Fresh Tomatoes are always a good bet! We like to eat them sliced with a little sea salt, diced with a peppercorn cheese & pesto for fresh bruchetta, or juice them to make your own V8-like drink
Raw Salad
This raw salad is like my own version of the kitchen sink. It was a staple for my husband and I when we were 100% raw.
Start with a bed of spinach and add carrots, cucumbers, scallion/onion, raw sharp cheddar cheese, dried cranberries, and peanuts. We like to top it off with Cindy’s Kitchen fat-free balsamic vinaigrette Feel free to play with this one depending on what you have in the fridge. With so many items in it, each bite gives a fun, unique taste and keeps it from getting old.
Eggs
Lastly, we ditched the cereal for fresh granola, yogurt and eggs. Eggs for dinner (aka “Brinner”) is also a favorite around here. As I’ve posted before, quiches make great meals that can last a few days. Or you can whip up some scrambled eggs with pancetta, diced peppers, and onions for an Italian inspired meal.
For all your other meals, keep it simple. A meat and non-starchy vegetable really is a good meal and so quick to prepare. Keep the bread off the table when possible. If you must, make it from scratch (or buy it freshly made). The hardest part of this type of cleanse is to break those old habits, but you’ll be glad when you do.
What would you add to your list of favorites?
