They say diet is everything!
Now, I have been saying that I want and need to lose 10 kilos for over two years now but it was not till recently that I actually put effort into it. Learning to be more disciplined, I have started eating healthy and have managed to stay at it for a good week now.
So if you are like me, if you are planning to lose weight but can’t seem to find the time to workout, change up your eating habits. Below is a list of clean eating ideas that don’t just taste good, they help you lose weight too.
1. Quinoa Salad with Asparagus, Dates and Orange
Whole grains are the basic needs on the clean diet and quinoa, makes for the best. It is high in fibre and it is a brilliant source of protein that provides all nine essential amino acids making it fully protein. Slightly crunchy, the nutty taste mixes well with many nuts, fruits and vegetables. Plus, it takes less than 20 minutes to cook.
2. Spinach and Beans Burrito Wrap
Wraps are a great if you are eating clean. Convenient and consisting of a bit of variety, the spinach and beans burrito wrap is packed with whole grains and plenty of fibre. Perfect for lunch, the wrap will keep you energised all afternoon. Opt for grilled chicken with cheese if you do not fancy spinach and beans.
3. Vegetable & Tuna Pasta Salad
This delicious dish is made with zucchini, sun-dried tomatoes, arugula and chunks of light tuna. Make sure you use tuna that is lower in mercury rather than white albacore tuna. For the best flavour, combine the pasta salad with light dressing about one hour before serving.
4. Arugula, Grape and Sunflower Seed Salad
Fresh, wholesome and delicious, there are so many ways to enjoy a salad. This one in particular features spicy arugula, sweet red grapes and another clean eating basic, sunflower seeds. Seeds and nuts are great for clean eating because they fill you up, provide magnesium, zinc, vitamin E and selenium. A splash of fruit juice makes for the perfect and cleanest dressing.
5. Grilled Tomato Gazpacho
Refreshing and filling, this soup is absolutely delicious! Grill the vegetables for this refreshing soup earlier in the day or the night before and serve it in clear Spanish wine tumblers to show off the rich colour.
6. Tenderloin Steaks with Red Onion Marmalade
Offering a meal high in protein, lean steaks are quickly broiled then topped with sweet and sour onions. Naturally high in protein, beef tenderloin is also the source of iron, B12, B6 and niacin. Consuming small amounts of protein throughout the day helps with building lean muscle mass and keeping blood glucose level stable so you don’t feel lethargic. Serve with steamed green beans and mashed potatoes for a family-pleased meal that you can enjoy.
7. Carrot Soup with Yogurt
Delicious, nutritious and comforting, soups are a clean eating mainstay when prepared with fresh ingredients. Vegetable purees in particular make for the perfect way to enjoy fresh-tasting cream soups without relying on heavy cream and butter for flavour. Add a dollop of plain tart yoghurt to impart a smooth velvety richness.
8. Couscous & Fruit Salad