As a nutrition coach and Head Chef for Venice Nutrition, I understand the need to spice up your meals from time to time and step out of your culinary “box”.  As a person who leads a very busy lifestyle and is trying to balance work, fun and making my health a priority, I understand how easy it is to eat the same foods day in and day out.  Sometimes I think to myself, if I eat another chicken breast, I’m going to scream!  But yelling won’t get me (or my clients who count on me to help them progress) anywhere!  However adding some creativity to my meals (and yours) will.

One of my long term clients (and great friend) came to me not too long ago because she was struggling with getting back on track.    She had lost weight with me in the past and due to health issues and life circumstances out of her control, fell off course.  When she tried to re-visit her meal plans she just “couldn’t do it.”  I did a little digging and realized that she was eating the same foods day in and day out.  Her protein shake breakfast was always followed by her eggs and oatmeal.  Her snacks were always cottage cheese and fruit.  Now I’m not knocking any of these choices- they’re not only healthy but happen to be a few of my personal staples.  The challenge was my client was only eating these foods and not trying anything new.  Sound familiar?  We put into effect a few of the strategies below and my client is finally back on track and enjoying food again. 
So how do you break out of your same old diet?  It’s time to add some spice!

1.  It all starts at the grocery store.  When you make up your list each week, vow to try a new food item in each category.  For example, if you always grab pears as your fruit of choice, try some pre-cut pineapple.  Sick of broccoli?  How about bok choy or roasted asparagus?  Can’t stand another piece of chicken?  Pork tenderloin is lean, easy to prep and delicious.

2.  Visit the Venice Nutrition Recipe Tab.  These recipes are designed to get you to try new foods altogether or to at least put a creative spin on some of your old favorites.  Best of all, there fast and simple to make.  For example, we all have chicken and brown rice on hand but that can get boring.  Check out our new Creamy Chicken and Rice recipe for a hearty, home cooked and delicious take on your old stand-bys.

3.  If you’re pressed for time but really want some variety try visiting your local gourmet market like Whole Foods.  Here you can find pre-cooked and seasoned seafood like grilled shrimp and salmon and even roasted vegetables.  Another great choice is rotisserie chicken which can be found at even your local market.

4.  Visit the spice aisle.  There are so many delicious seasonings out there to choose from; cilantro, red pepper flakes, thyme, lemon pepper and more.  Sometimes a different flavor profile can change an entire dish.

The greatest benefit to breaking out of your boring culinary rut is the renewed sense of excitement.  Having a few tasty and different meal options to choose from may be just what the nutrition coach ordered!  Have fun and enjoy!

Valerie Cogswell
Head Chef and Nutrition Coach