I am on a roll these days: getting assignments done, eating well. I wonder if it’s the time of the month!?
I was able to get all but one thing on my to-do list complete today, and I put in a buffer time slot, so I’m doing well!
We are completely out of fruit in this house with the exception of a few blueberries that I am saving for tomorrow’s breakfast. I REALLY wanted an apple this afternoon to go with my crackers and AB/PB but the bread machine ate all the fruit! They were still a delicious snack. A few kashis (plus about 5 more straight from the box) with a tsp each of Barney Butter and Naturally More –
I also had a sip of this guy! Freshly brewed stout. And quite good!
Mailtime, mailtime, mail—time!! (Blue’s Clue’s tune 😉 )
Thanks to my buddy GENA for sending me some novels to read!!!!!!!!!!!!! (And a book for Matt on baking!) I absolutely cannot wait to read these books. I need some good fiction in my life!
Dinner tonight: Airplane Food!
Remember when I ate these two couscous dishes on my flights to Africa (and remember when I went to Africa!? I cannot believe the trip is over, and I cannot believe I went to AFRICA! It feels like a dream!) The one on the left was smoked salmon and peppers with peas and the one on the right was dried fruit, almonds, cabbage, carrots, grapes.
So tonight’s dinner was a hybrid of these two made with this:
For two servings:
- 1 box of couscous (1/3 for her, 2/3 for him) sprinkled with cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chickpeas
- ~1/3 cup sliced bell peppers
- 2 dried figs, 1 apricot, 1 tbsp raisins, all hydrated in some hot water
- 3-4 oz of smoked salmon, chopped (I buy a “bad” kind from Harris Teeter. I need to find wild Alaskan in smoked form, I know. Kelsey just found some at TJ’s, so maybe it’ll be good.)
- 2 tbsp chopped almonds, toasted in oven or microwave for 60 seconds
- Cilantro garnish (very important!)
Super easy to make too – the only cooking was the couscous (and the beans way back when)
It was really good, but not as good as my airplane versions!!! I loved the mix of textures:
- Fluffy: Couscous
- Crunchy: Almonds + peppers
- Chewy: Salmon
- Soft: Fruit
- Mushy: Beans
Bite This
I meant to blog these two posts from Weekly Bite last week and got too busy! Estela (an R.D.) wrote two posts on weight loss that I think deliver excellent messages. I especially like what she writes on hunger:
I am off to do one or all of these: bath, yoga, reading.
Speaking of reading, I am currently reading Bethenny Frankel’s book Naturally Thin. (I feel like I have a “connection” with her because I watched Martha Stewart Apprentice in 2005 and no one else did, right?! I also have a “connection” with Katie Holmes because Dawson’s Creek was filmed in Wilmington, NC where I’ve visited my whole life!) I recently read an article of Bethenny’s in Health and thought she had some great ideas on healthy eating, so I got the book on Amazon. The cover and style are kinda cheesy (this is 2009, not 1995!) but so far the book is awesome. I’m only on Chapter 2 though..
To the books!
jen says
Kav & Clay is amazing! I hope you enjoy it. I’ve got Middlesex up on deck for when this semester is over too.
WendyF says
That couscous looks divine. Speaking of airplane food, I have to fly to Thailand tomorrow for 4days. 20 hours of airplane food 🙁 Debating whether to take oatmeal.
Oh by the way , if you like spicy food add some harissa or the siracha hot sauce to the water and stir before you add the couscous. It is quite good.
WEEKLY BITE says
That dinner combo looks really appetizing!
Glad you liked the articles!!
Shannon (The Daily Balance) says
Middlesex is a fantastic read — enjoy 😉
Lisa D says
haha, you most definitely have lots of celebrity connections! I am looking forward to your review of the rest of the book. I love Bethanny on real housewives. she cracks me up!
Run Sarah says
That looks so yummy! I have a box of whole wheat couscous I haven’t been inspired to cook with yet…I’ll have to give something similar a try.
Jennifer says
Wait you eat WELL around the time of the month?!
sarah (ghost world) says
middlesex = my favorite book ever. bringing pediatric endocrinology to the mainstream — who would have thought?? love it!!!
FoodsThatFit says
Kath-
I have the Artisan Bread in 5 Minutes a Day and it is one of my favorites. It has a lot of the same ideas as Mark Bittman’s No Knead Bread recipe. It makes the process to much easier, especially for people like me that always ruin anything with yeast in it 🙂
KatieMoo says
Hey Kath,
I’m trying to lose weight but I always feel hungry! I know that I’m eating enough. Did you always feel hungry when you were trying to lose weight? If so, how did you get through those feelings? Anyone else’s input would also be appreciated!
Thanks,
Katie
Nicole says
I love Kavalier and Clay! It’s a really great book, I hope you like it 😀
Lori says
Kath,
Have you seen Bethany in The Real Housewives of New York City? She is so *sharp* 🙂
Elizabeth says
Middlesex is so interesting. I began reading that (can’t remember if I had the time to finish it or not)… it was so intriguing!!
Lisa says
Middlesex is super good. Enjoy!
melissa says
I liked the book. I heard of it from this blog which gave an interesting review of it:
http://www.skwigg.com/blog/
There is some controversy in the comments — very interesting. Maybe check it out when you are done with the book!
VeggieGirl says
Grrrrreat books and dinner!!
Courtney (The Hungry Yogini) says
I JUST put that book on my nightstand to read tonight!!! I can’t wait… she is really great. AND she went to the Natural Gourmet Institue which is where I want to go. I love her whole philosophy. Very much like intuitive eating! NIGHT!
Tina says
I LOVE Bethenny Frankel! I’ve been reading her articles in Health since she first started and I love her thinking on eating– no restrictions!
Mizz Independent says
Also just ordered Naturally Thin on Amazon! Mine is still on its way though 🙁 Can’t wait to hear what you think!
Lee says
Middlesex was a great book.
Liz says
Kath, I really hope you enjoy reading “Middlesex”. It’s very well written and never dull. Have a good night.
Adi (oatonomy.com - repaired!) says
Looks like a great book stash! Isn’t it so nice reading for fun instead of reading school material?
Enjoy!
Bec says
this is probably one of the first times someone has tried to recreate airplane food!
Sharon says
Oh wow, those are great novels!!
Danielle says
That dinner looks so colorful and yummy! To think it was inspired by airplane food!
Laura says
Your dinner looks so yummy!! I have never tried smoked salmon before, I will have to try some!! I got Bethany’s book and I cant read it!
Heather says
Kashi Crackers are such a great snack! Pb and hummus (not at the same time haha) are perfect with them!
It must have been so fun recreating that meal. Looks like you did a darn good job! Yummy!
Have fun relaxing with yoga and your books tonight!
Ileana says
The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay is my favorite book of all time.
I am so jealous of you, because you are getting to read it for the first time, which is something I never get to do again!
kristin point says
I love the tj’s wild smoked salmon!
Suzanne says
What a coincidence! I’m reading NATURALLY THIN too! I didn’t watch Bethany on The Apprentice – I only know her from The Real Housewives of NYC and her youtube videos. I am only on Chapter 1 (I keep falling asleep because I only have time to read before bed and I always exhausted.)
I really like her philosophy – I feel like she is talking directly to me and about me. I am a compulsive calorie counter and carb binger at night – and I’m always feeling guilty about everything I eat. I have been trying to lose 10 pounds for the last year (constantly losing and gaining back 5 pounds). I’m obviously doing something wrong. I can’t wait to finish the book and learn something!
Anyone else stuck in a weight loss rut?
Kath, when you were losing weight – how many calories did you cut each day?
LK- Healthy Delcious says
that couscous looks great- so nice and colorful! I want to read bethenny’s book too….
Katie says
I have been a quiet follower for awhile (but apparently like many others); I love love love Middlesex! I love hearing about other people reading it because it’s so great!
Jennifer says
I’m going to see if my library has that book Naturally thin. I’ve been reading books about people who have lost weight and kept it off and its really inspired me to keep going with my weight loss. I admire that you and your husband eat so healthy. I’ve been eating way healthier than before and finally have gotten off the couch to exercise which I think will be the key!
Hangry Pants says
I read Middlesex for my book club. Some people really like it and find it interesting. I never got into it. I can’t wait to hear your thoughts.
Priyanka says
The couscous looks so yummy! I am so making that!
Making Love In The Kitchen says
Middle sex is a great book! And I too have always felt a connection with Katie Holmes- but I think it was because her character Joey always reminded me of Vanessa. (I hope she doesn’t see this comment- she’ll kill me!)
Erin says
LOL, leave it to Kath to try to recreate plane food. I’m still totally jeally of that trip of yours!
Kara says
Mixing textures is the greatest! And couscous can make a meal!
Amanda says
Ok, I’ve been reading for over a year and have never commented, but I had to say that you must read Kavalier & Clay first! It is so, so wonderful. My favourite book ever.
And then read What Is The What by Dave Eggers. It will sort of fit in with your recent trip to Africa, though in a horribly depressing way.
Courtney says
I love, love, LOVED Middlesex. My bookclub read it a couple years ago and it was hands down our favorite book we read.
Amanda says
I am reading Bethenny’s book too! I love how it basically re-iterates everything I feel like I already know, but in simple terms and in the form of her “rules”. I did, however, read it at the gym and the guy next to me was peeking over and asked what I was reading. He “didn’t get” why I was reading it because I am thin … ha ha it’s one of those books that is hard to explain.
sue says
what a delicious dinner…and how nice of your friend to send over those books! great reads!
Kim says
Middlesex is great! The ending is a bit abrupt, but I loved the book in general.
Bethanny Frankel… meh. She has always stricken me as such a fame whore, but I admit I’m interested to hear reviews of her book.
KLM says
Bath!! I am J-E-A-Lous..
Janet says
Hahaha – I totally read that wrong at first and thought literally you had a bread machine that ate your fruit, like you made fruit bread in it or something. Yeah, that totally made no sense, I must be tired, ha!
I just read MIddlesex, too! And I totally watched Bethenny on Martha Steward Apprentice – I always forget about that! I kind of want to read that book, too.
Dinner looks fab. 🙂
Hallie says
I’m currently reading Intuitive Eating, but I’ve heard good things about Naturally Thin, too. I’m thinking maybe if I read enough of these kinds of books, something will click for me…we’ll see, I guess.
I felt the same way you did after I went to Israel…like, did that REALLY happen or was it a fantastic dream 🙂
Moran (The Running Addict) says
So jealous of all the books!
I should be on a roll too!! Have so much work from school!
Caroline says
That plate with the PB & crackers is beautiful!
Jessica says
I have to reiterate the love for Kavalier and Clay. One of the best books I’ve ever read.
I’m not sure if it’ll be to your taste, I know from past experience recommending it to people that it’s often a love it or hate it thing, but if you give it a chance it will really stick with you.
What’s the book on the far left? The cover looks familiar but I’m not sure I remember it. My days of bookstore lounging have been limited since they closed my favourite store last summer.
Lara (Thinspired) says
I think it’s awesome that you are immulating food you had on a plane! You really know how to travel since the food was THAT tasty! 🙂
I am dying to know about Bethany’s book! It is on my amazon wishlist but, frankly, the cover kind of turns me off. What if the content is circa 1990, too?! Haha. Thanks for the link to the article, maybe that will get me to buy the book. I hope you do a review?!
Kerri says
Dinner looks great! I love that brand of couscous. I remember that Martha Stewart show. What ever happened to the winner? Don’t forget Joshua Jackson…Pacey and Joey forever!
K says
I had to read Middlesex in English – I wasn’t a big fan of it but it’s alright. Hope you like it!
Kath says
WendyF ,
Ack – good luck! Make a pit stop at the KLM lounge for me 🙂
KatieMoo ,
I didn’t always feel hungry. Is it time of the month? Are you getting enough water? Are you eating heavy foods with lots of volume (veggies + fruits + dairy) and not too many packaged things?
Lori ,
I want to start watching RHONYC – when is it on?
Making Love In The Kitchen,
I can totally see the connection 😉
Janet ,
Lol 🙂
Kath
MLT says
Loved Kavalier and Clay and Middlesex! Just a warning on K and C though- I found it a little hard to get into and so did my husband and mom. The first few chapters are a bit of a struggle, but it’s so worth it if you stick with it! I’m excited to hear what you think. What’s that book on the far left?
JENNA says
I love your line on feeling a connection with people….I get the same way! Too funny!!
Your couscous looks so good!!
Anon says
Guess I’m only the 2nd dissenter on Bethanny. I think fame whore, too, and that she also looks like a triceratops in the show now. She lost so much weight and her shoulderblades look like they could cut someone up.
Beadie @ What I Ate Yesterday says
Thanks for those links, Kath. Very interesting article, everything she says my RD has been telling me for some time now 🙂
brandi says
that dinner looks great! I love couscous.
Meredith (Pursuing Balance) says
Middlesex is so good!
Katie says
I watched Martha’s Apprentice! I wish she’d do another season.
kristy says
Middlesex is a great book! I loved it.
I also watched the Martha Stewart Apprentice. One of the few…
amanda says
middlesex is a great book. also housekeeping is awesome too! it is a really interesting story.
Suzanne says
KATIEMOO –
You’re not alone! I have the same problem! I am ALWAYS hungry. I eat very healthy foods but I never feel full.
I am ok during the day at work because I pack all my food from home, but as soon as I get home and eat dinner – I am famished right afterwards. I end up binging between 7pm – bedtime.
I keep blaming my willpower – but that’s not it. I am literally hungry. I even sit there and wait the 20 minutes to assess my hunger.
Maybe Kath is right – maybe we are not getting enough water?
KATH –
I’m not sure you if you missed my question or just chose not to answer…but I was just wondering how many calories you cut a day during your weight loss? Is 200-300 calories enough if I am also working out everyday (burning around 300-400 calories)?
Thanks!
Michelle Hisae says
I read that same article in Health, and I love her outlook on nutrition and exercise. It’s a very intuitive way of looking at a healthy diet and workout routine. I’ve been curious about her book, too, so don’t forget to give us your final review! 🙂
That dinner of yours looks so great. I love putting raisins in something savory for a pop of sweetness. Such a pleasant suprise.
Gena says
It makes me so happy when everyone’s talkin’ books! Glad you all liked the choices 🙂
Heather says
Bethenny’s book changed my life! In fact, when I was searching for oatmeal recipes for my carb based meal, that is how I came across you! I have lost 10 pounds since reading her book without doing anything but implementing some of her rules. And you inspired me to start food blogging. I highly recommend the book to everyone!
Jess says
The Adventures of Kavalier and Clay and Middlesex are both wonderful. I just got the Artisan Bread book. Can’t wait to see what Matt makes from it.
Tracey says
I loved Martha Stewart’s Apprentice show, too! Thought I was the only one!
Kate says
Hi Kath! It’s Kate again from Health! How are you liking the book? She blogs for us regularly and contributes to many of our photo shoots.
Here are the top two piece of advice she gave me:
1. After a long day, stay away from the baggy sweats! Put on fitted yoga pants and a slim top—you’ll be much less likely to overeat if you can see the shape of your body through your clothes.
2. If you’re looking to cut calories but can’t stand the thought of sticking to water at a cocktail party, order a glass of vodka (or similar hard liquor) on the rocks with a lime. It definitely won’t go down as easy as wine, so you’ll have no trouble sticking to just one.
Ange C. says
I am loving Betthany’s philosophies (a lot like your’s Kath!) but i have to admit she is sooo darn skinny! From the Housewives show, i can tell she is toned, but she’s just really emaciated looking. It’s kind of hard to enjoy her words of wisdom with her looking like that. She’s totally witty and fun to watch though!!!
Maggie says
I watched Martha Stewart Apprentice too! Loooved that show, and now Bethenny is everywhere. Good for her, she must have a great PR person!
Kath says
Suzanne ,
I talk about my calorie amount on my FAQ page. Read the parts about NET calories.
Heather ,
Welcome!
Kate ,
Thanks for the tips!
Kath
Kelly says
Hi Kath! I’ve been reading your blog for awhile now and I love it! I totally watched Bethenny on “Celebrity Apprentice with Martha Stewart” too! I think you will be very entertained by “Real Housewives of NYC” if you start watching it. I don’t think anyone has responded to your question about when it airs – it’s on Tuesday nights at 10 PM (and they rerun episodes allll the time so you should have no problem catching up!).
jamie says
Wilmington is great…I have lived here for 30 years. 🙂