Cooking for Two: Healthy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes

Sloppy Joes (aka Manwhich) are a childhood staple that are arguably one of the messiest and least healthy foods my friends and I grew up with.  In an effort to bring the sloppy joe back into my life, I modified it with healthy ingredients to limit the fat and salt while keeping the juicy flavor.

(Keep in mind, I made this as a recipe for two.  If you need more, double it!)

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb ground turkey
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced green pepper
• 1 8oz can tomato sauce (no salt added)
• 1 15oz can low-sodium kidney beans (drained)
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp. chili powder
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 tsp. marjoram
• 1/2 tsp. pepper
• 1/4 tsp celery seed
• 1/2 tbsp red wine vinegar

Preparation:

1. Toss ground turkey, onion, and green pepper in a non-stick skillet.  Cook on medium-high until meat is just browned.

2. Transfer turkey mixture into a slow cooker. 

3. Add all remaining ingredients and mix well.

4. Set slow cooker on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 5-6 hours. 

5. Serve it on a bun and enjoy!

Winter Foods

Winter is fully upon us, which can mean cold wins, snowy streets, and sparse sunlight.  However, the cooler weather also means some delicious, healthy crops are finally in season.  Buying food in season saves money, benefits the environment, and can add variety to your diet.      

        

Next time you’re looking for some healthy greens, consider stocking up on broccoli and brussel sprouts.  From January – March, broccoli and brussel sprouts are in their prime.  Cabbage and its superfood cousin kale are also in season during the colder months.

Green not your thing?  Winter is also the best time of year for root vegetables.  Parsnips, rutabegas, and turnips are in season.  Roasting these vegetables can add a comforting warmth to your cold-weather meals.

In terms of fruit, winter is a great time to stock up on some citrus.  While citrus is generally associated with tropical summers, grapefruit, lemons, tangerines, and oranges are actually in season in January and February. 

The Perfect Gift

Still searching for that perfect gift for the holidays?  If you're stuck trying to find a hilarious present, a gift for someone with unique tastes, or something for that person who has everything, check out these sites for some help!

http://finding-dreams.quazen.com/shopping/gifts/best-websites-for-unique-gifts/