Mini Corn Dog Muffins

Let's just pretend the Super Bowl didn't happen, shall we (we're a Bronco family... need I say more)? To ease the pain of the so-called "game" that we watched today, I made these adorable little corn dog mini muffins. Normally, I'd make the corn bread mix myself but honestly, I was far too exhausted after our 3 hour hike so I will fully admit that I used the good 'ol boxed corn muffin mix and some Hebrew National hotdogs. If you're going to go down that road and eat hot dogs you might as well eat some that have the most "meat" in them. I've provided you with a recipe that I've used before to make corn bread so I know it'll be good. Hey! The NCAA season is fully underway so make these for your next bball party and you'll DEFINITELY impress your guests! P.S., this recipe will make a LOT so if you're only baking for a few, cut it in half!

What you'll need:

3 cups flour


1 cup sugar


1 cup cornmeal


2 tbs. baking powder


1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt


1 1/2 cups milk


1/2 pound unsalted butter, melted and cooled


2 extra-large eggs

1.     Preheat your oven to 350*. Liberally grease a mini muffin tin with non-stick spray.

2.     In a large bowl, mix together the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, mix together the wet ingredients. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry and mix until there are no lumps.

3.     Fill each muffin tin about ¾ the way up. Cut the hotdogs into 6 pieces each. Place one hotdog in the middle of each corn muffin.

4.     Bake for 15 minutes (or until golden brown).

5.     Let cool and serve with your favorite condiments. 

Super Bowl Snacks

By now, you're either finalizing where you'll be going to watch the Big Game or, if you're hosting, you're scrambling and realizing you're 3 days away and in desperate need of some each yet crowd-pleasing recipes. I've compiled a list of my top 10 favorite party foods for you. I know I've been on a health kick and trying to promote lower calorie eating but there are some events (this being one) that you can't skimp on the fried goodness. These recipes are all great for large crowds or just your few best buds. P.S. GO BRONCOS!

1. Chicken Parm Cupcakes
2. Oven Fried Chicken (wings for the game)
3. Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
4. Roasted Caprese Pops
5. Guac and Chips
6. Baked Chicken Taquitos
7. Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders
8. Fried Artichoke Hearts
9. Cornmeal Onion Rings
10. Caesar Salad
11. Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip (not pictured, but still a must!)

A Healthy Start

As you all know, I've been on a major health kick and diet for the past few months. As a result of some very hard work and dedication, I'm proud to say that I've lost about 50 lbs since September 1st. I feel great, I look great, and I can finally wear jeans without wanting to cry. Yes it was a huge physical change but it was equally a mental one. This was not a diet for me, but a lifestyle change. 

A lot of people have been asking me what I did to drop the weight. I followed a variation of the HCG diet with a doctor (click the link and it'll take you to his page). The process was challenging at times but to see how far I've come and looking at pictures side by side I'd do it again 100 times if I knew how great I'd feel in the end. Now, it is very pricy. But I PROMISE you that it is worth it! If you just can't afford it right now (lets be honest, not many of us can) then follow this guide I've made for you below. THE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS are to drink enough water (you should be drinking 3-4 liters EVERY DAY), and to NEVER skip a meal! 

I really hope this helps you all; it should give you a good jump start to get that body, AND MIND, you've always wanted.

Your breakfast should consist of 4-5 ounces EACH of protein and fruit.
Lunch should consist of 4-5 ounces EACH of protein, fruit, and vegetables.
Dinner should consist of NO MORE than 4 ounces EACH of protein and vegetables. 
NOT counted in the 4 ounces is the unlimited foods. Those do NOT count in your meals. They're to be eaten freely to hold you over or as a filler at meal time. Don't go TOO overboard, though! 

YES

Lean protein

Fish (all)

Chicken

Turkey

Turkey bacon

Eggs

80/20 ground beef

Apples

Oranges

All berries

All vegetables

Coffee (TRY TO LIMIT TO 2 CUPS)

Non-fat Greek yogurt (limited)

Vegan aioli

Avocados (1/2 per day)

Hummus (try to limit amount to 2-3 tbs. And only if served with veggies)

NO

Dairy

Butter

Fats

Oils (USE OLIVE OIL/CANOLA OIL SPRAY)

Bananas

Grapes

Pineapple

Carrots (if possible, none. LOTS of sugar)

Soda (unless diet)

Pasta

Bread

Croutons

Flour

Beans

Rice

Mayonnaise

Breadcrumbs (buy PLAIN melba toast and grind in a food processor to make your own)

UNLIMITED

Cucumbers

Peppers (any/all kinds)

Tomatoes

Red onion/shallots

Lettuces

Cabbage

Garlic

Herbs

Salt/pepper/seasonings

Any ZERO calorie dressings (Walden farms)

Water

Sparkling/flavored water (as long as zero calories)

Tea