Try new things

I was introduced to this salad by the farmer (and a friend), Ollie, who runs our CSA. I honestly have never had radicchio until she gave me a huge beautiful head of it a few weeks ago. The leaves are deep magenta, similar to cabbage, with thick white veins. Radicchio is a chicory which is part of the daisy family. Its leaves have a bitter flavor, which is mellowed by grilling or roasting. 

But the salad I'm suggesting is raw, making it perfect for summer barbecues. You don't need to turn on the oven or fire up the grill. It's easy, almost too easy.

Simply drizzle—rinsed, dried, chopped leaves—with raw honey, balsamic, and olive oil. Don't be stingy with the honey, it helps cut the bitterness. Add a dash of sea salt and pepper, and a handful of pistachios to garnish. Enjoy! 

Energy snacks

I've always been a morning person. I enjoy getting up early, and having time to myself before I start the day. I can tell a big difference when I do. Running first thing in the morning, before breakfast or coffee, is my favorite routine. I always hated running in the cold, until I trained for a half-marathon last year. Now I prefer it to running in the sweltering summer heat. There's something about running half-asleep in the cold that I find invigorating. I think part of it is wearing proper running tights. I could live in them (and often do on the weekends).

As the weather is becoming colder, I've started to increase my distance again. With that comes an increase in appetite. I decided to make homemade energy snacks, instead of buying larabars at the store. These snacks are so easy to make (if you have a food processor) and are to eat on-the-go. I thought Josh would be skeptical, but he loves them. I've already made several batches the past few weeks. What do you munch on pre- or post-workout?

Feel free to add substitute your favorite dried fruit (dates, cherries, cranberries) here. Another variation I tried was with more apricots and coconut butter. These snacks are loaded with heart-healthy fats, omega 3s, fiber and protein to keep you satisfied.

Energy snacks
2 cups almonds
4 dried apricots, soaked in hot water for 10 minutes
1.5 tsp cocoa
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp almond extract
3 tbsp honey
1 tbsp flax, soaked in hot water for 10 minutes
Shredded unsweetened coconut

Soak the almonds in clean, filtered water for at least 4 hours.* Pour out water and rinse almonds. Put almonds into a food processor with the remaining ingredients (except the coconut) and blend. If it's too dry, add a little melted coconut oil or more honey. You should be able to roll into 1 inch balls easily with your hands. Roll through the shredded coconut and enjoy pre- or post-workout.

*I think this step is key. Not only does it help your body digest the almonds easier, but it give the snacks a better texture.