clean eating

I came across the Clean Eating magazine while shopping at our local organic grocery store.  I was hooked before I walked out the door.  Although we don't follow a strict "clean eating" diet we watch what we eat and try to keep informed on ways to prepare meals that are healthy and low in fat.  Of course there are the nights when you crave a delivered pizza or chinese food but for all those other times, this magazine is great.  The Clean Eating philosophy is simple.  Consuming food in its most natural state - or as close to possible to it.  It is not a diet but a lifestyle approach to food and how it is prepared, leading to health, well-being and a lean look.  

Their approach is realistic. There are fast and easy solutions to everyday meals, tips on how to shop wiser, comparisons on well-known items (even frozen meals!), and they provide a 7-day eating plan complete with grocery list and recipes. The website is a great way to check out the magazine, especially if you can't find it locally.  This recipe, by Food Network star Robin Miller, looked yummy.  Maybe we will try this tonight??  Betcha I can get my 3 year old to eat it too!

Skillet Ginger Chicken with Cilantro and Lime
NUTRIENTS PER 1 1/2 CUP SERVING: 
Calories: 408 
Total Fat: 8 g  Sat. Fat: 1 g    
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.5 g  Polyunsaturated Fat: 2 g 
Carbs: 49 g    Fiber: 6 g  Sugars: 3 g   
Protein: 35 g   Sodium: 687 mg   
Cholesterol: 66 mg

• 8 oz vermicelli or whole-wheat angel hair pasta (dry)
• 2 tsp peanut oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• ¼ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• ¼ cup chopped scallions (white and green parts)
• Lime wedges for garnish (optional)

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain, reserving ¼ cup of cooking water.
2. Meanwhile, heat peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger, and cook 1 minute. Add chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 3 to 5 minutes. Add reserved cooking water, soy sauce, sesame oil and lime juice. Bring to a simmer. Add pasta and cook 1 minute to heat through, stirring frequently.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cilantro and scallions. Serve with lime wedges on the side, if desired.

NUTRITIONAL BONUS:
Chicken is an essential source of vitamin B3 (aka niacin), which is necessary for the body to convert protein, fats and carbs into usable energy. You should have no trouble converting the macronutrients in Miller’s skillet dish – one serving offers over 66 percent of your daily need of the B vitamin.