Recipes For A Bikini-Body

The older we get, the harder it is to stay fit. Our metabolic rate generally slows—ugh. We need to make an effort to make better food choices and exercise choices in order to live a good life.

Summer is nearing and the call of the island is irresistible. In my opinion, for one to truly enjoy the beach or the swimming pool is by jumping into the water, swim and frolic. It’s liberating and fun!

We all love our tunics, robes and caftans but you can’t swim in them. It’s time to face the music and don a swimsuit. Let’s get ready for our bikini-bodies!

Here are some healthy and super easy recipes to get started:

Breakfast

Tomato, Basil & Onion Omelette with Mixed Greens and Balsamic Vinaigrette

Ingredients: 1 whole tomato, chopped; 1 tbsp onion, chopped; 1 egg; 1 tbsp water; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (to grease the pan); fresh basil leaves; 1 cup mixed greens. For the dressing: 1 tbsp. balsamic vinegar; 1 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; salt and pepper

Easy peasy: Step 1: Beat egg with cold water, set aside. Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp. of extra virgin olive oil in a small, non-stick frying pan, then swirl in the egg. Cook until done to your liking. Step 3: Spoon the tomato, basil and onion mix over half of the omelette. Step 4: Fold omelette over the tomato, leave for about 30-45 seconds, then slide onto a plate. Serve with a salad with balsamic vinaigrette dressing.

2-Egg White Frittata with Basil and Spring Onions

Ingredients: 2 egg whites; 2 tbsp cold water; fresh basil and spring onions, finely chopped; 1 tbsp mozarella cheese; 1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil; salt and pepper

Easy peasy: Step 1: Beat eggwhites and cold water in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp. of extra virgin olive oil in a small, non-stick frying pan, then swirl in the egg. Step 3: Add the basil, spring onions and cheese then, cover the pan for 30 seconds. Step 4: Cut in wedges and serve with a smile! (I only eat 2 pieces and refrigerate the left over)

Lunch

Pan Seared Garlic Chicken Breast with Mixed Greens and Balsamic Vinaigrette

Ingredients: 1 small chicken breast; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp olive oil; salt and pepper; 1 cup mixed greens; For the dressing: 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 1 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; salt and pepper

Easy peasy: Step 1: Heat a skillet over medium high heat. Add olive oil. Step 2: Season the breast with garlic powder, salt and pepper. Put chicken in the pan and sear both sides until cooked. Step 3: Cut chicken into cubes. Serve with a salad with balsamic vinaigrette dressing.

Healthy Pancit Canton

Ingredients: 1 pack of buckwheat noodles; onion, cabbage, carrot and broccoli; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp Bragg’s Liquid Aminos; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; pepper

Easy peasy: Step 1: Cook buckwheat noodles according to the package. Step 2: Steam all veggies then add to the cooked noodles. Step 3: Make sauce/dressing – in a jar, add olive oil, Bragg’s Liquid Aminos, lemon juice and pepper, shake well.  Serve size: 1/2 cup noodles and 1 cup veggies

Dinner

Lean Burger & Broiled Broccoli

Ingredients: 150 grams lean ground beef; 1 egg white; 1 head broccoli; 3 tbsp olive oil; salt and pepper

Easy peasy: Step 1: In a bowl, mix broccoli and olive oil, season with salt and pepper. Step 2: Using an airfryer or toaster or oven, broil the veggies for 10-15 minutes until cooked. Step 3: Mix lean beef and egg white. Season with salt and pepper. Step 4: In a pan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Pan sear the burger on both sides.

Stir Fry Pechay, Shrimp & Squid

Ingredients: 1 bunch of pechay or bokchoy, chopped; 1 small squid, cut into rings; 30 grams of fresh or frozen shrimps; garlic powder, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/4 cup water, salt and pepper

Easy peasy: Step 1: Heat pan and add the olive oil. Fry the squid and shrimps. Step 2: Add the pechay or bokchoy, season with garlic powder, salt and pepper. Step 3: Add the water and cover. Cook until veggies are slightly wilted. Serve with a smile!

Tips:

• It’s all about portion control. If you’re making a batch, make sure to divide it into smaller meals.
• Meal preparation is key. Plan a menu and prepare all the ingredients in different containers. You’re likely to eat healthy when you have healthy food readily available.
• Use smaller plates to make the food seem more. This is effective in “tricking” our brain.
• Drink lots of water. A glass before and after eating and drink 10 glasses a day.
• Eat 3 meals a day only but you can snack in between with Kashi Crisps (available at Healthy Options) or Jacob’s Hi-Cal Crackers, 2 pieces only.
• No alcohol. No desserts.
• Avoid parties and gatherings for now unless you have the willpower to not eat and drink.
• Sleep early so you don’t have to deal with unnecessary midnight snacks.
• Don’t buy junk food. If it’s not in the house, you won’t eat it.
• Read inspiring stories on healthy weight-loss and keep dreaming of that bikini body!
• Stay active. Keep exercises light if you’re eating smaller portions. Try swimming, biking or walking.
• Reunite with your kitchen or learn to cook basic recipes. It’s empowering!
• Seek your doctor’s advice before going on any kind of diet. Make sure your heart and hormones are in check plus, you may also need vitamins and supplements.

I really believe that eating healthy and staying active are the answers to a rockin’ body!

We have 8 weeks to prepare for the beach. I think that’s enough time to get fit. If we keep at it, we can do it!

Who’s with me?