image from weightwatchers.com
As summer approaches, the gym becomes increasingly crowded in anticipation of bathing suit season. On April 1^st, I made an April Fools Day resolution to entirely revamp my eating habits—but it was no practical joke. While this was partially to achieve a better beach body, it was much more about establishing a healthier lifestyle. And, I must say, I feel great! Here, I share with you 3 easy recipes that have become staples of my diet.

Power Smoothie

1. 1 large, ripe banana, chopped

2. ½ cup of fresh strawberries, chopped

3. ½ cup of Greek yogurt

4. 4 ice cubes

It doesn’t get simpler than this! Throw all of the ingredients in the blender and blend till smooth. I like to have one of these in the morning because it’s super refreshing and the protein from the yogurt keeps me going through out the day.

Cinnamon-sugar knots

I snagged this sinless treat from WeightWatchers® (http://www.weightwatchers.com/food/rcp/index.aspx?recipeid=59171). 1 serving (2 knots) are only 2 PointsPlus™, a value determined by a food’s total fat, protein, fiber and carbohydrates. I love that I can guiltlessly enjoy 2 every night…and I promise that they’re as good as they smell!

1. 2 Tbsp sugar

2. ½ Tsp ground cinnamon

3. 11 Ounces refrigerated bread stick dough

4. 3 serving(s) butter-flavour cooking spray

-Preheat oven to 375ºF. Coat a large baking sheet with cooking spray.

-In a small bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon. Mix well and set aside.

-Unroll breadsticks and cut each in half lengthwise (to make a total of 24 pieces). -Arrange pieces on prepared baking sheet and coat with cooking spray. Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon-sugar mixture over each piece. Tie each piece into a knot (pulling dough gently if necessary). Sprinkle remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture over knots.

-Bake until puffed up and golden brown, about 15 minutes. Serve warm. Yields 2 knots per serving.

Perfect Pita

1. 1 whole wheat pita

2. 6 cucumber slices, chopped

3. 1-2 Tbsp of hummus (try roasted red pepper flavor for an extra kick)

4. 2 Tbsp black olives, chopped

5. ½ cup grilled chicken strips

Although I currently and will continue to endorse The Pita Pit, I’ve found that making homemade pitas is easy and relatively inexpensive. Plus, they’re perfect for either lunch or dinner! While these are my favorite pita-stuffers, there’s really no limit to what you can put in yours!

-Toast the pita to your liking

-Open the pita and spread hummus on the inside

-Stuff in the cucumbers, olives and chicken

-Fold together and enjoy!

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