Weight Loss Recipes

Cinco de Mayo is the day to celebrate Mexico’s unique culture and enjoy the delicious food it inspires. Whether you’re planning a party or just want to share in the fun with your family, you can indulge in tasty Cinco de Mayo appetizers and still stick to your weight loss plan. To help get the fiesta started, we’ve gathered our favorite Mexican-inspired appetizer recipes. They’re all simple yet bursting with real flavor. You will love them on Cinco de Mayo, and any other day of the year!

Chips and Nachos:

1. Air Fryer Tortilla Chips >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb and 1 Extra

You can enjoy restaurant-style tortilla chips at home. All you need are corn tortillas and an air fryer, the handy appliance for making low-fat food. The chips come out fresh, warm and crisp. Give them extra spice with chili powder or add a bit of sweetness with cinnamon. Get the recipe for Air Fryer Tortilla Chips here! >

2. Bell Pepper Nachos >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: ½ PowerFuel, 1 Extra and 1 Vegetable

There is no more enjoyable way to get in a serving of non-starchy vegetables than this version of nachos. We replaced the chips with crunchy yet sweet mini bell peppers but kept all the savory nacho toppings, including plenty of melted cheese and fresh avocado, black beans, pico de gallo and fresh cilantro. Add lean ground meat, soy chorizo or shredded chicken breast and your nachos become a well-balance meal. Get the recipe for Bell Pepper Nachos here! >

3. Crispy Nacho Chips >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb

Cheese-flavored tortilla chips are so addicting but the bags you get in the store are loaded with unhealthy fats and excess calories. You can get all the pleasure and none of the grease when you make your own in minutes in your oven. Simply cut mini corn tortillas into triangles and bake them in the oven until they’re crisp. Toss them in a blend of spices (as fiery as you like it) and nutritional yeast, an ingredient that tastes like powdered cheese, and prepare to snack. Get the recipe for Crispy Nacho Chips here! >

4. Crispy Cauliflower Nachos >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 PowerFuel, 1 Vegetable and 1 Extra

Firm, mild-flavored cauliflower makes a filling and nutritious foundation for the nacho ingredients you love. After the cauliflower browns and turns crisp in the oven, you top it with seasoned ground turkey and shredded cheese, plus tomatoes, red onion, pickled jalapeno and fresh cilantro. This alternative to standard high-calorie, high-fat nachos just might become a new favorite for your gang. Get the recipe for Crispy Cauliflower Nachos here! >

5. Healthy and Cheesy Cauliflower Nachos >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 PowerFuel, 2 Extras and 1 Vegetable

Pull this version of nachos out of the oven and everyone will reach for a bite. Along with the cauliflower you get lots of ground turkey with taco spices, melted cheese, creamy avocado and fresh pico de gallo. For even more fiber and protein, add black beans. Get the recipe for Cheesy Cauliflower Nachos here! >

Salsa, Guacamole and Dip:

6. Easy Homemade Pico de Gallo Salad >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 Vegetable

Pico de gallo (pronounced peak-oh day guy-yo) is a raw, chunky type of salsa that’s loaded with flavor and nutrients. We make it with cherry tomatoes, red onions, colorful bell peppers, jalapeno peppers and fresh cilantro. You can dip chips or veggies in it, and it’s a tasty topping for salads, whole-grain pasta, rice, meat or seafood. Best of all: it’s an unlimited recipe so you can use as much as you want. Get the recipe for Homemade Pico de Gallo Salad here! >

7. Mexican Street Corn Dip >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb and 3 Extras

Instead of the same old dips, try this fresh way to enjoy one of Mexico’s most beloved snacks. It stars sweet corn that’s been charred to bring out its flavor, plus cheese, avocado, jalapeno peppers, onions and garlic blended with mayonnaise. You can serve it warm or cold, with raw vegetables or tortilla chips to swipe through it. Get the recipe for Mexican Street Corn Dip here! >

8. Fiesta Crab Guacamole >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 2 Extras

Bring Fiesta Crab Guacamole to a party and you can just sit back and watch it disappear. It takes the familiar ingredients of the popular dip and adds the succulent taste and texture of real crab meat. The seafood spice blend known as Old Bay kicks the flavor up to the next level. Get the recipe for Crab Guacamole here! >

9. Baked Salsa Verde Chicken Dip >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 PowerFuel and 2 Extras

A heated dip makes an elegant appetizer that’s filling and flavorful. To make this one, you start with shredded chicken (a cooked rotisserie chicken from the grocery store saves you time). It is blended with low fat cream cheese, nonfat plain Greek yogurt, along with roasted tomatoes and green chiles. After baking in the oven, the dip comes out warm and melted with a lightly brown top. You won’t be able to resist dipping in before it cools. Get the recipe for Salsa Verde Chicken Dip here! >

10. Mango Salsa >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb

For a sweet variation on classic salsa, swap out the tomatoes for mangoes. The citrus-flavored fruit pairs well with hot and sweet peppers, plus onions and cilantro to make a dip that lights up all of your taste buds. You can also use this salsa to punch up the flavor of grilled seafood or chicken. Get the recipe for Mango Salsa here! >

11. Tropical Guacamole >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 3 Extras

Pineapple and mango bring their sweet, tropical flavors to this delicious version of guacamole. It still starts off with the familiar ingredients: ripe avocados, diced onions,  jalapeno peppers and fresh-tasting cilantro. When you add in the fruit, you get a whole new blend of taste sensations for your dipping delight. Get the recipe for Tropical Guacamole here! >

12. Party-Perfect Pico de Gallo >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: Free Food (Unlimited)

Pico de gallo and chips are ideal mates. When you dip, you get a satisfying crunch from the chips and the complementary flavors of tangy tomatoes, spicy and sweet peppers, zingy onions and garlic in each bite. This pico de gallo is easy to make in a few minutes, but it’s sure to be a hit at any party. Get the recipe for Pico de Gallo here! >

13. 7-Layer Southwest Dip >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: ½ SmartCarb, 1 PowerFuel, 1 Vegetable and 1 Extra

Seven delicious ingredients, including avocado, shredded cheese, hearty black beans and diced tomatoes come together in every bite. This dip is ready for any party, but it’s so low in calories and high in nutrition you can make it for yourself whenever you want. Enjoy it with a serving of non-starchy vegetables like cucumbers and bell peppers. Get the recipe for 7-Layer Dip here! >

Quesadillas:

14. Easy, Cheesy Veggie-Lover’s Quesadilla >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 2 PowerFuels, 1 SmartCarb, 1 Vegetable and 1 Extra

Take an everyday quesadilla to the next level with ingredients that pump up the flavor and the nutrition. For this version we used semi-soft goat cheese, which has a mildly tangy taste and it melts into delicious creaminess. Caramelized onions, sautéed kale and sweet cherry tomatoes add texture, fiber and potent nutrients. If you’re not a fan of those veggies, you can substitute spinach, bell peppers or mushrooms. Whichever you choose, you get in one of your four daily servings of non-starchy vegetables. Get the recipe for Veggie Quesadillas here! >

15. Spicy Shrimp Quesadilla >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 PowerFuel, 1 SmartCarb and 1 Extra

Plump, juicy shrimp are an ideal PowerFuel to add to quesadillas. They’re high in protein, tender to bite into and their mild flavor pairs well with many other ingredients. This recipe also features lightly spicy jalapeno peppers, sweet bell peppers and green onions, plus cayenne pepper and chili powder to give it a zesty taste. Melted cheddar cheese holds it all together. Get the recipe for Shrimp Quesadillas here! >

16. Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb, 2 PowerFuels and 1 Extra

Sometimes simple meals are the most satisfying. These quesadillas, for example, feature basic ingredients such as chopped chicken breast, shredded cheese, onions and peppers melted together between whole wheat tortillas. Top with fat-free sour cream and all the salsa you’d like and savor every bite. Get the recipe for Chicken and Cheese Quesadillas here! >

Other Cinco de Mayo Appetizers

17. Healthy Late Night Chicken Taquitos >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb and 1 PowerFuel

What can you do when you have a craving for a Mexican-inspired snack long after the dinner hour? With this simple recipe, you can have the answer in less time than it takes to go to the drive-thru or call for delivery. These taquitos are simple to make with just a whole wheat tortilla, shredded or canned chicken breast, cheese, salsa and all the chili powder your taste buds can handle. Get the recipe for Chicken Taquitos here! >

18. 5-Ingredient Avocado Chips >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 PowerFuel

Avocados are high in healthy fats and they can be the nutritious foundation of golden brown and crispy chips. You make the chips in the oven with just a handful of ingredients, including real parmesan cheese. You can flavor them with your choice of seasonings, spicy or mild. Get the recipe for Avocado Chips here! >

19. Chicken Taco Pinwheel Wraps >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 PowerFuel and 2 Extra

Pinwheel wraps are easy to prepare and fun to eat. Stuff a whole-wheat tortilla with a blend of protein-rich shredded chicken, Mexican cheese, cream cheese, salsa and chili powder, Roll it up tightly and put it in the fridge for 30 minutes. Then just slice it into pinwheels you can pop in your mouth or dip into a bowl of salsa. Get the recipe for Chicken Taco Pinwheels here! >

20. Shrimp Taco Bites >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb and 1 PowerFuel

Shrimp are party food that is healthy enough to eat anytime because they’re high in protein and low in saturated fats. Shrimp take center stage in this flavorful appetizer that also features avocado and tangy pico de gallo atop a crisp tortilla. All together they’re a perfectly balanced snack with one PowerFuel and one SmartCarb. Get the recipe for Shrimp Taco Bites here! >

21. Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn >

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb, ½ PowerFuel and 1 Extra

You can transform ordinary sweet corn into a treat that’s the perfect for Cinco de Mayo. If you cook the corn in the air fryer, you don’t even have to wait for a large pot of water to boil. Once the ears are tender and juicy, you flavor them up by rolling them in a sauce featuring real mayonnaise, lime juice and zesty spices like chili powder, paprika and black pepper. Sprinkle on crumbled cotija cheese and chopped fresh cilantro, then dig in. Get the recipe for Mexican Street Corn here! >

The post 21 Easy Cinco de Mayo Appetizers appeared first on The Leaf.

from The Leaf https://leaf.nutrisystem.com/cinco-de-mayo-appetizers/

A faster metabolism can feel like the “holy grail” of weight loss. As we age, our metabolism often slows down and many of us notice that even though we are eating the “same foods we’ve always eaten,” we’re still gaining weight. That can be incredibly frustrating.

Fortunately, there are scientifically backed ways that you can naturally boost your metabolism, such as certain exercise programs like high-intensity workouts or weight-lifting routines. Drinking more water and getting enough sleep have also been shown to contribute to an overall improved resting metabolic rate. But you might be surprised to know, there are also certain foods that can naturally boost your body’s metabolism. Incorporating these metabolism-boosting foods into your diet can be one of the easiest ways to give your metabolism the jumpstart that you’re seeking!

If you’re wondering what foods naturally boost metabolism, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of some of our favorite foods that can help you speed up your resting metabolic rate, as well as how you can incorporate them into your day!

1. Chili Pepper

Spicy foods like chili peppers can give your metabolism a jolt! This is because chili peppers contain a chemical capsaicin, which has been shown in a number of studies to boost metabolism by increasing the number of calories you burn. A review of 20 research studies, published in the journal Appetite, found that capsaicin can help you burn around 50 extra calories each day.

While you can find plenty of recipes that incorporate chili peppers and other spicy foods containing capsaicin, maybe you don’t feel like cooking. If that’s the case, we have a number of spicy Nutrisystem meals that will fit the bill!

2. Avocado

As far as foods that help boost metabolism, avocado is another favorite. A study, published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, found that those following a diet high in monosaturated fat (like that found in avocados) had more energy and as a result, burned more calories.

One of the trending ways to eat avocado right now is on toast—and we’ve got some great ideas for you. But there are plenty of other ideas that you might never have thought of like using it for salad dressings, baking with it or even subbing it for mayo. Just watch your portion sizes as the calories in avocado can add up fast! It’s considered an Extra on the Nutrisystem program.

3. Milk

According to the The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, research has also indicated that foods which are high in protein can also help naturally boost metabolism. This is part of a process called the thermic effect of food (TEF). Protein causes the largest rise in TEF as compared to carbs and fats. Since the protein content of milk hovers around eight grams per cup, according to Healthline, it is a great choice if you’re seeking foods that speed up your metabolism for weight loss.

Milk is an easy food to incorporate into your diet as it can be added to smoothies, healthy cereals or even enjoyed plain. Milk is also packed with helpful nutrients like calcium, B vitamins, potassium and vitamin D, says Healthline.

4. Tempeh

Thanks to its high protein count (around 15 grams per half cup, according to the United States Department of Agriculture), tempeh is another great choice for metabolism-boosting foods. It also makes an excellent meat substitute. If you’re looking for a great tempeh recipe to try, this Moroccan Tempeh Vegetable Stew is full of flavor and easily fits into your weight loss plan.

Of course, any foods that are high in protein can be foods that help boost metabolism. This can include PowerFuels like Greek yogurt, black beans, edamame and more. Because eating a diet that is high in protein is also known to help you feel more full and prevent you from overeating, there are many healthful benefits to fitting these metabolism-boosting foods into your daily eating plan.

5. Lentils

As far as foods that help boost metabolism, lentils—and other legumes such as beans and peas—are another great choice. A review, published in the British Journal of Nutrition, found that eating lentils can play a central role in preventing and treating metabolic syndrome. They may also boost metabolism thanks to their rich protein content.

According to the Mayo Clinic, lentils are also rich in fiber and low in fat—and they make another great replacement for meat. Consider adding them to a variety of dishes, including soups, casseroles or salads.

6. Kale

Kale—as well as other leafy green veggies like spinach—can also play a role in a faster metabolism as a result of being high in iron. Research shows that iron can have a direct impact on an individual’s metabolism. According to Medical News Today, “If a person has low iron levels, they may not send enough oxygen to their muscles. Muscles that are low in oxygen cannot burn fat for fuel as well as they should. Low iron also interferes with optimum metabolism in the body.”

Smoothies are a popular way to add metabolism-boosting foods like kale to your diet without even noticing. It can be easily snuck in and takes on the taste of the fruits that you’re using. But there are many different ways that you can incorporate more leafy greens into your diet in a nutritious and delicious way.

Get a personalized weight loss plan tailored to your unique metabolism! Click here to learn more about the all-new Nutrisystem >

The post 6 Foods That Naturally Boost Your Metabolism appeared first on The Leaf.

from The Leaf https://leaf.nutrisystem.com/metabolism-boosting-foods-to-jumpstart-your-metabolism/

Boost your burn with a little spring cleaning! Now is the perfect time to check items off the household “to-do list.” Though you certainly might not enjoy housework or chores, it may help to know that many of these activities can burn serious calories. Not only will your home be cleaner, but you’ll feel good about slimming down while you work. We’ve put together a list of some common household chores that can keep you fit and healthy while staying productive.

Here are 10 household chores that can help you lose weight and burn calories:

1. Sweep and Mop to See Pounds Drop

Looking to tone those arms and shoulders? Sweeping and mopping both make a great upper body home workout. But on top of that, these household chores double as exercise and are serious calorie blasters. According to Good Housekeeping, 138 minutes of mopping floors is estimated to burn somewhere around 405 calories if you’re working vigorously. Throw in some lunges while you’re at it and you’ll truly get in a total body toning home workout—all the while getting things done!

2. Push It!

For more at home arm workouts, grab the vacuum and get to work. Vacuuming is also a great way to get your heart rate up for some cardiovascular benefits. In order to get more out of it, try exaggerating your movements. Take big lunges as you move the vacuum forward for some added leg toning. You might also consider picking up the tempo. Put on some music and throw in some dance moves as you work. It’s a great way to make chores and housework more fun while accomplishing both cleaning and exercise goals. Plus, you’re safe at home in quarantine.

3. Trim the Grass to Trim Your Waistline

If you’ve got a push mower, then mowing the grass can be a great calorie burner. According to Harvard Health, a 155-pound person burns about 167 calories in 30 minutes of push mowing the lawn. Just make sure you’re staying hydrated as things heat up outdoors! Check out these helpful H2O tips to practice proper hydration and ensure you’re drinking enough water as the weather gets warmer!

4. Wash Away the Calories

Another activity that can be done is washing the family car. According to Harvard Health, 30 minutes of vigorous car washing can torch somewhere around 167 calories in a 155-pound person. Channel your inner Karate Kid with some “wax on wax off” movements with the sponge and you’ll feel those arm muscles burning in no time. The more you scrub, the more calories you burn and the cleaner your car gets. It’s a win all around!

5. Get Your Spring Cleaning Underway

There’s something about having the windows open and the fresh air coming in to inspire people to spring clean. It probably has to do with a new season and a fresh beginning. While decluttering during spring cleaning is good for the mind, it can also be good for the body. Lifting and moving heavy items, bagging up clothing donations and rearranging can all help work up a sweat. Whether you’re clearing out a garage, a closet or a junk room, you’ll feel good that you’re making your home cleaner and more organized while also burning calories. Take a peek at these six spring cleaning to-do’s for added weight loss this season.

6. Grab the Paint!

Tired of staring at the same white walls while you’re stuck at home? You may be rethinking one or more of your wall colors. A fresh coat of paint can do wonders when it comes to an easy room makeover. But it can be a great workout, too. According to Harvard Health, painting inside for 30 minutes can burn 167 calories in a 155-pound person. Painting is a fantastic way to work your arm and leg muscles. You’ll get a room refresh while building lean muscle that helps you burn calories.

7. Ditch the Dishwasher

While you might be used to tossing all those dirty dishes in the automatic dishwasher, why not take a half hour to do a sink-full by hand? You’ll conserve household energy while using your own energy to burn calories. The harder you scrub, the more you’ll burn and the cleaner those dishes will be! Now is also a great time to get out some of those hard-to-clean pots and pans and put some elbow grease into your effort.

8. Weeding Away the Calories

When it comes to yard work, pulling weeds might be pretty low on your “want-to-do list.” But knowing that it can be a great calorie buster might move it up a few notches. You’ll get in some leg toning exercise as you squat and bend. Plus, you’ll need to use your arm muscles to yank and pull at those deep-rooted weeds. Your body—and your plant beds—will look better because of it. 30 minutes of weeding can burn 172 calories in a 155-pound person, according to Harvard Health. While weeding away in your yard, you can enjoy even MORE health benefits from gardening. Check out the surprising benefits here! >

9. Do a Window Wash

30 minutes of window cleaning chores is thought to burn somewhere around 167 calories in a 155-pound person, says Harvard Health. But getting the grime off the inside and outside of your windows will also make you feel good. Rather than looking at dirty smudges and streaks, the sun can shine in and you can enjoy it to its fullest!

10. Scrub that Tub

If you’ve got soap scum build-up, it takes some serious power and energy to scrub your tub or shower clean. That hard scrubbing can burn a lot of calories if you’re working up a good sweat. The more elbow grease power you put in, the more payoff—both in the form of a clean surface as well as toned muscles! It’s another win all around.

The Leaf Weight Loss Blog is here to help you stay healthy! Learn more helpful fitness exercises, wellness tips and healthy, easy to make recipes to keep you and your family happy and nourished.

Are you in need of a healthy meal delivery service? We’re here for you! Learn more about Nutrisystem programs >

*Always speak with your doctor before starting an exercise routine.

The post 10 Household Chores That Seriously Burn Calories appeared first on The Leaf.

from The Leaf https://leaf.nutrisystem.com/chores-to-burn-calories-during-coronavirus-quarantine/