Baltimore Eats Magazine_First Edition

RECIPE
Cleanses are popular this time
of year, but extreme measures
like the Master Cleanse
or juice fasting are usually
unnecessary. If you don’t want to survive
on vegetable juice for a week (or
more), there are simpler and gentler
ways to reset your system.
The principles of a successful
cleanse are quite simple: take it slow,
enjoy real food and prepare meals in
advance. If you’re armed with delicious
and nourishing recipes, you’ll
actually look forward to your cleanse
as opposed to counting down the
days until it’s over. This is more about
Snap Pea and Asparagus Salad
Recipe For A Satisfying
Spring Cleanse
Spring is a time for renewal. After a winter of hibernation (and Netflix) it’s
time to ditch the heavy comfort foods in favor of lighter, more refreshing
fare. With produce like strawberries, spinach and lettuce in season, there’s
plenty to eat without missing the mac ‘n cheese too much.
a lifestyle change than a quick fix, so
there’s no need to go to overboard.
My Daily Detox Plan
Increasing your vegetable intake is
the name of the game. Whether you
eat them raw or steamed, consume a
variety of colorful veggies (especially
the green, leafy ones). Visit your local
farmers market or join a CSA (community
supported agriculture) to see
what’s popping up in the fields lately.
Try a new vegetable like dandelion
greens or daikon radish if you’re feeling
adventurous.
Making some easy changes to
your diet will leave you feeling happier,
stronger and more energetic as
the weather warms up. There’s so
much to do during these long days—
it’s important to eat foods that will
support your activities!
Here’s a snapshot of my daily
spring cleanse:
Start your day with lemon water,
followed by fruit and nuts, or a
smoothie with protein powder.
Don’t forget to add spinach or
kale to the smoothie for an extra
vitamin and mineral boost.
Sip green tea mid-morning or
in the afternoon, and switch to
chamomile tea in the evening to
relax. Green tea is a natural detoxifier
and won’t drain your adrenals
like coffee can.
Eat a hearty salad with steamed
veggies for lunch. Mix it up with
arugula or mustard greens for a
spicy kick.
Serve protein and veggies for dinner,
such as chicken breast with
our Snap Pea and Asparagus Salad.
Drink plenty of water all day long
to flush the toxins out of your
body. If you start feeling thirsty,
you’re already dehydrated. Sip water
throughout the day instead of
chugging your daily intake in one
shot.
Mindful eating habits are also important.
Remember to chew slowly
and without distraction. This way,
you’ll be able to recognize signs of
fullness sooner. If you end up eating a
donut at your morning meeting, don’t
panic and give up. Try again at your
next meal. Getting used to a new routine
can take time.
Stick with it, and you’ll notice a
change in your overall disposition.
You may experience clearer skin,
more energy and increased immunity.
Often, a gentle detox can also ease
symptoms like digestive discomfort,
belly bloat and intense cravings.
Get started:
1. Create a weeklong menu.
2. Look for new recipes to sprinkle
into your meal plan.
3. Prepare a grocery list and stock up
on everything you need.
4. Discard or set aside “unsavory”
items you wish to avoid, such as
processed foods, sugar and coffee.
5. Cook a few meals on a free day, so
you’re not scrambling last minute.
Enjoy eating in a way your body will
love!
Author Bio
Serves: 4
Ingredients
4 cups chopped lettuce
1 bunch asparagus, steamed,
grilled or roasted
2 cups sugar snap peas
1 plum tomato, diced
⅓ cup sherry vinegar
¼ cup olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
¼ cup chopped fresh basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
1. In a large bowl, combine the
lettuce, asparagus, snap peas
and tomato.
2. In a small bowl, whisk the
vinegar, oil, garlic and basil.
Snap Pea and
Asparagus Salad
Personal Chef Chris Welsh is the
Executive Chef and Owner of Secret
Ingredient. She believes that the secret
to living a healthy and balanced
life starts with wholesome food.
For over 15 years, she has helped
dozens of busy families, professionals,
those with dietary needs, and
people recovering from illness, save
time and eat healthier.
Chef Chris serves Main Line Philadelphia,
PA towns and surrounding
communities. For more tips and recipes,
or to learn about her personal
chef services, visit: Secret-Ingredient.
com.
3. Pour dressing over the salad
and toss well. Season with
salt and pepper to taste.
Serve immediately.
Chef’s Note: Replace the
vinaigrette with your favorite
dressing, if desired.
Disclaimer: This information is
not intended, and should not be
taken, as medical advice. Nor
is it intended to treat, diagnose,
make claims or suggest
a change to your diet. I’m not
a doctor or nutritionist. I’m a
healthy foods chef. If you have
a medical concern or question,
speak with your healthcare
provider.
52 Baltimore Eats Magazine September 2017
September 2017 Baltimore Eats Magazine 53