Snack Attack

I'll admit, snacks are my weakness. I like crunchy little tidbits and tiny bursts of sugar. (Don't judge me, we all have an Achilles' heel.) I try to keep a handle on my inner snackaholic, but it's hard to exercise self control when you are constantly surrounded by leftover cake and extra cookies. Oh the woes of a photo stylist! My new goal is to provide myself with travel portions of healthier alternatives in order to stay on track. Today, I made a creamy cashew butter that will be the perfect companion to crunchy celery sticks. I started with a cup of roasted cashews in the food processor. Slowly, I drizzled in olive oil until I got the desired consistency. I added a pinch of cinnamon, the juice of half an orange and a sprinkle of sea salt. The result was subtly sweet and decadently rich. Watch out, vending machine... there is a new treat in town.

Apple Jicama Salad

Let the battle begin. Spring has sprung and that means bathing suit season is right around the corner. Uh oh... the heavy doses of cheesy polenta that sustained me through the winter have packed on a few extra pounds so it's time to get in shape! I need to dial up the workout and pay closer attention to what I eat. No more heavy comfort food or thick stews, lighter fare is in order. Fresh veggies will soon arrive in my garden and green salads will abound. Until then, I am at the mercy of the local produce department and today they did not disappoint. Red apples, jicama, celery, and cilantro combined to make a wonderfully crunchy salad that was sweet, flavorful and satisfying. I added spicy almonds that were toasted and tossed in smoked paprika, salt and cayenne pepper. A squeeze of lemon and a spritz of balsamic vinaigrette and the dish was complete. Ok, bikini... game on!! We'll see who has the last laugh.