Easy Breakfast: 3 Ways

I have never really liked breakfast foods. I would much rather eat a leftover taco bowl at the crack of dawn than anything on a diner’s menu. However, as someone with great interest in health and nutrition, I know the importance of breakfast mealtime and a complete, balanced dish to start your day. So, over the last year or so, I’ve set out to find foods that my leftover-loving self will enjoy, and that my nutrition-nerd self can approve of.

Here, I’ve gathered my three favorite combinations to share with you all. Try them out, make some changes, tell me what you love! These are my staples, and I hope they soon can be yours too.

First up, oatmeal – the ultimate breakfast food.

Vanilla Almond Oats (vegan w/ gluten free option)

Ingredients:

• 1/2 rolled oats (gluten free, if you’re like me)
• 1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
• 1/2-1 banana, sliced or torn into pieces
• dash of vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1 serving of vanilla protein powder (Nuzest is my main squeeze- use code ‘jenbenna’ for 15% off)
• almond butter (I love Wild Friends’ Vanilla Espresso Almond Butter)
• 1 tbsp pepitas or chia seeds

Method:

1. Combine oats + almond milk in a saucepan over high heat. Bring to a boil.
2. Once brought to a boil, turn heat down to low. Add banana, vanilla + cinnamon.
3. Let simmer for a couple minutes and then stir in protein powder.
4. Allow to simmer until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Transfer to a bowl and top with almond butter, pepitas and a dash of cinnamon!

Peachy Keen Smoothie (vegan + gluten free)

Ingredients:

• 2 scoops unflavored protein (I love The Natural Citizen’s organic protein)
• ~3/4 cup frozen peaches (about 4-5 slices)
• 1 1/4 cup frozen organic berries
• 1 frozen banana
• 1/4 cup coconut water (I use Harmless Harvest, but you can also use nut milk)

Method:

1. Layer into blender in order, so that the protein is the first thing to touch the blade (so go in the order I have if you have a large pitcher style blender, or reverse order if you have a smaller nutribullet style).
2. Blend!
3. Toppings: almond butter, chia seeds, Love Grown cereal, Purely Elizabeth granola

Yogurt Parfait (vegan + gluten free)

Ingredients:

• 1 serving of Kite Hill plain or vanilla yogurt
• fruit of choice (I use berries + banana)
• nut butter (I love Wild Friends’ Vanilla Espresso Almond Butter)
• chia seeds
• Other great toppings: Purely Elizabeth granola, Love Grown cereal, roasted sweet potatoes, nuts + seeds, coconut shreds

Method:

1. In a mason jar, layer ingredients as shown above.
2. I also like to eat this “deconstructed” on a rimmed plate and just stir everything together for a more ‘sit down’ breakfast.

Looking for more breakfast inspo? Check out these recipes:

• Apple Cinnamon Oats (gf, v + soy free)
• High Protein Vegan Tofu Scramble
• Gluten Free Vegan Pancakes

Organic Protein Thin Mint Bites (vegan, gf + peanut free)

It all started with the Grasshopper smoothie at Native Sun yesterday. The delicious blend of peppermint and cacao nibs with spinach and bananas brought back nostalgia of those addicting thin mint cookies I used to sell in my childhood. I love everything mint + chocolate. This is just the beginning.

I wanted these bites to pack a protein punch, so I grabbed my trusty The Natural Citizen organic protein powder (unflavored so perfect for whatever recipe I’m creating) + some raw cashews. I also wanted a little more nutritional value so I threw in some Navitas Naturals organic cacao powder – packed with magnesium, iron, polyphenols, antioxidants + minerals.

These are naturally sweetened with organic dates, which really makes them guilt free…just don’t eat them all in one sitting!

They are best stored in the fridge or freezer, as they have a fudge like consistency that might get too sticky if not kept cold enough.

Organic Protein Thin Mint Bites (gluten free, vegan, peanut free)

• Servings: 10-12
• Print

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup of raw organic cashews
• 1 cup of pitted organic dates (this measured out to 12 for me)
• 1/3 cup Navitas Naturals organic cacao powder
• 1 1/2 scoops The Natural Citizen organic protein
• 1 tsp Simply Organic peppermint flavor
• organic almond milk to facilitate blending

Method:

1. Blend cashews in blender/food processor until they’re finely chopped/approaching a powder. Pour into mixing bowl.
2. Blend pitted dates in blender/food processor. Add a splash or two of almond milk to facilitate blending, and continue until a paste forms. Scrape out and add to mixing bowl.
3. In mixing bowl, add cacao powder + protein powder. Throughly mix together all ingredients until evenly incorporated. If you have a strong food processor, this step could be done in there, alternatively. If you are having trouble getting things going, add a small splash of almond milk here.
4. Spread mixture evenly against the bottom of the mixing bowl and add peppermint flavor 1/2 tsp at a time (mix and taste after first 1/2 tsp to ensure you would prefer more). Peppermint flavor can easily become overpowering, so add to your preference. I like a good minty flavor so 1 tsp worked perfectly for me.
5. Form into 10-12 small ball. Arrange on a plate, cover, and place in freezer until firm (about 20-30 mins or so). Transfer to a container and store in fridge or freezer.

Homemade Guacamole (v, gf + soy free)

GOT FAT?

The healthy kind that is. We healthy people hear it all the time… Avocados are really high in fat! Fat is bad! Don’t eat a lot of fat! blah blah blah.

Truth is, fat from the right sources is extremely beneficial for your entire body. Yes, if you over do it you will start to put on some weight over time. No, it shouldn’t be your main source of calories. But let’s just embrace the good healthy kind of fat that’s full of rich monounsaturated fat (hello beautiful skin)!

AVOCAD-HOE das me. Gimme all the scrumptious avocados. ESPECIALLY if they’re in guac form! Today, I’m sharing the homemade guac recipe I learned from my mama once upon a time.

If you are in need of a quick, cheap, and easy recipe to bring to your next social gathering, or if you just need a snack for a little “me time”, this recipe is a total winner. The ingredients are minimal, and most are likely already in your kitchen. This recipe pairs super well with Siete grain-free chips (I love the nacho + sea salt flavors). ENJOY!

Homemade Guacamole (vegan, gluten free + soy free)

• Servings: 2-4
• Time: 7 mins
• Difficulty: easy
• Print

Ingredients:

• 1 medium avocado (either Hass or local)
• juice of 1/2 large lime
• 1-2 medium cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 slices of jalepeño, seeded and finely minced
• handful of cilantro, finely chopped
• ~1/2 tsp cumin
• optional add-ins: diced tomatoes, hot sauce, organic sweet corn

Method:

1. Slice avocado in half and scoop the insides into a serving bowl. Set the pit to the side.
2. Mash with a potato masher or fork until most or all chunks are smoothed out and it has a creamy consistency.
3. Add in the rest of the ingredients + mash to combine thoroughly.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning or spice level.

Pro tip: If you need the guac to last, either in the fridge or at a party, save the avocado pit and place it in with the dip: it keeps the dip from going brown! Remember to cover the bowl with a lid or cling wrap when storing. Best when fresh, although it will store for up to 2-3 days in the refrigerator if covered and the pit is in it.

Lululovin

If you know me personally, or just pay attention to my instagram stories, you’ve probably noticed that I am Lululemon obsessed. By some stroke of luck (possibly bad luck for my wallet) I was introduced to Lululemon through an old friend at UNCW, Lauren my yoga instructor. She has the cutest pieces that looked HELLA comfy, so I finally looked into the brand. My first two pieces were the power-y tank and the classic energy bra. To this day, the energy bra has been my go-to and all time favorite classic sports bra.

Here, I’m compiling my favorite pieces in my ever-growing collection, that have made it through the sweatiest of weight lifting or spin sessions. Of course, everything is subjective based on what I wear these for and what my body type is, but I 100% adore this brand, and after a couple requests, I thought I’d share with you guys!

I also want to preface this post with a couple things on pricing/purchasing. The majority of the recent items I’ve bought were on sale or through Mercari (a used/NWOT clothing app). There was a semester my sophomore year where I spent my entire extra scholarships on food and Lululemon, and I’m definitely a bit regretful..so don’t feel like you need a thousand pieces to look cute. For the most part, a couple staple quality items can totally revamp your workout collection!

Sports Bras

As mentioned above, one of my first Lulu purchases was the energy bra, and I have collected a couple different colors/patterns over time. It is definitely the most universally flattering bra. For example, I am not at all chesty whereas my sister is the complete opposite, and (with different sizes) the style looks awesome on both of us! Sizing, for all their bras, is based on band size rather than cup size. So try a couple different sizes and see what works best.

This style is simple, practical, comfy, supportive, flattering, and chic. I would definitely suggesting trying one on if you’ve been struggling with finding a great sports bra.

High Neck bras are another favorite of mine from the brand. Sadly, styles come in and out of circulation so the two I have here aren’t available on their website, however they are constantly bringing out new styles that are similar so I’d check those out. I like the high neck bras for traveling and lounging (in addition to cycling/weight lifting) because of how comfy and supportive they are.

Tops

I don’t know about you, but I am a tank top girl HANDS DOWN. Even though I workout all year round, I have insisted on wearing tank tops. My favorites from Lulu are no longer available, but you may find them on apps like Mercari.

The first is the trapeze twist tank, which is actually currently available in a newer style online. I love the back (of course) and that it’s lose and soft so I can do literally anything in it. This pairs really well with the high neck sports bras.

The second style I have in two versions, one that ties and one that doesn’t. However, I wear both of these every single week without fail.

I’m not really into tighter fitting tanks, although I do love the Cool Racerback in black. I have it in white but I’m considering selling because it’s just not flattering in that color on me. The black top is very cute with some of my more vibrant pants. I love tieing it in the back too, since I have a shorter torso.

Leggings

I have so many different styles (mainly ones I grabbed while they were on sale), but there are some definite standouts that I wear religiously every week no matter what, that Lulu has kept in stock year after year (in newer colors/patterns).

My current favorites are the All the Right Places crops and full length. These are the most flattering leggings I own. The stitching hits all the right places and is so amazing I fall in love every time I put them on. Plus! They have pockets, which are just the best innovation in leggings.

Another favorite is the Inspire Tight. These are also extremely flattering and have cute mesh accents on the calf. They also have little zip pockets which are nice touch, although don’t really have any practical value now that cell phones are the size of a toaster.

Those two styles (All The Right Places + Inspire) are, by far, my favorites for weight lifting and spinning. The material for both styles is Luxtreme which is sweat wicking and compression-fitting. Perfect for sweat sessions.

For lounging/traveling/wearing to class, I really like the Wunder Under Crops in regular and hi-rise versions. I like the full length ones as well, but currently Florida is just too hot for the majority of the year to wear the full length version. The crops are so amazingly comfortable and cozy, perfect for cold classrooms or the library. But they’re also breathable enough to go grocery shopping in or just walking around. The ones I have are mismatched from various sales, but they’ve come to be a go-to for me when I’m in need of comfort. Also, back in the days when I did yoga far more consistently, I loved this style for yoga class. They’re short so not too warm, but comfy and cover everything.

I’m not doing a section on shorts, because I dont really like shorts in general. I wear them when it’s that hot, but having rather large thighs makes wearing shorts a constant strip show/chaffing (TMI? probably). I also have an extremely disproportionate hip/thigh ratio, so even when pulling the drawstring, shorts just never fit me comfortably and I stay away from them as much as possible. (obviously try their shorts if you’re a short wearer)

If you don’t have a store near you, check out their size guide. For reference (or if you wanna gift me some new threads) I wear a size 4 bra + top, and size 6 bottom. This is pretty true-to-size for other brands that I wear.

What are your go-to Lululemon pieces? I am looking into getting a long sleeve top for my birthday, so let me know any recs!

Easy Baked Ziti (vegan, gf + df)

What could be better than a bowl full of ooey gooey baked ziti? One that’s incredibly simple to make and gluten and dairy free! I remember my childhood baked ziti dinners that were out of this world cozy, and that’s what inspired me to simplify (and veganize) my mom’s recipe. The outcome was truly decadent.

There’s tons of space for creativity here, so let me know all about your spin on this recipe!

Easy Baked Ziti (gluten free + vegan)

• Servings: 5
• Time: 45 mins
• Print

Ingredients:

• 1 box of pasta (I used rotini, but literally anything works here)
• 1 jar of spaghetti sauce (try a variation like roasted garlic!)
• 2 organic zucchinis, cut in half + thinly sliced (see above)
• 2 organic carrots, grated
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 2 tsp dill weed
• 2 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 container of Follow Your Heart shredded parmesan
• Chosen Foods avocado oil spray

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 350°.
2. Prep the sauce ingredients: slice zucchinis evenly + grate carrots. Then, add the veggies, sauce, spices + nutritional yeast into a saucepan.
3. Prepare pasta according to package, and heat sauce over medium low heat while pasta is cooking (8-10 mins).
4. Strain pasta and return to pot. Add the sauce mixture and nearly the whole container of parmesan to the mix and throughly incorporate.
5. Spray a 9″X 11″ pyrex dish with the Chosen Foods avocado oil spray, and transfer ziti mixture evenly into the pan. Top with the remaining parmesan.
6. Cook at 350° for about 20 minutes. If desired, broil on high for a couple minutes until parmesan on top browns.
7. Let sit 5-10 mins before eating so everything sticks together, then enjoy!

Self Care – And Why You Need It In Your Life ASAP

If there was ever a trend that was SO LEGIT, it’s self care. The older we get the crazier and more hectic things in our world become. All of  this just builds tension in our bodies, whether it be in our muscles or in our head affecting our emotions and coping mechanisms.

The best way to tell your amazing body ‘I love you’ is taking care of it on the reg. But, sometimes life interferes and our daily practices get screwed out of whack. To counteract that, let’s dive into self care

Curating special moments to appreciate your body, mind, and spirit is so essential to establishing and retaining sound wellbeing. The best part, is that it’s 100% up to you what self care means in your life. The most important thing to remember is to make the time, free of distractions, and commit to it like any other obligation you make. Your body will thank you later, and you might even avoid a meltdown or stress-induced frenzy.

Here, I’ve gathered up my favorite ways to practice self care. Try throwing one of these ideas into your self care routine and see how you feel.

Tea

There is something so relaxing and cozy about a warm cup of tea in my hands. Even if I’m grabbing some to study with, it brings about a sense of calm. The only tea brand I use is Tradtional Medicinals, ordered from Vitacost. They have SO many flavors, it’s amazing. My favorites are organic peppermint and organic nighty night. Look for caffeine free, so you’re not wired afterward (ok maybe it’s just me that’s hypersensitive to all caffeine).

Face Mask

Slathering on a face mask may be the epitome of self care. Self care Sunday on Instagram is strewn with bloggers masked in their favorite concoction. My mask of choice? Cocokind Skincare’s Chlorophyll Detox Mask. Just mix a little of the powder with filitered water, and BAM you’re Kermit the frog. But, more seriously, this mask does some amazing things to the face. The chlorophyll-rich ingredients help to purify the skin and clarify issue areas like acne. I’ve also noticed some lightening of my acne scars from consistent use of this product. Additionally it is reasonably priced and lasts forever! The ingredients are clean, straightforward, and effective.

Diffused Oil

Since getting an oil diffuser a couple weeks ago, I have used it every single day and night. Right now I use eucalyptus and lavendar oils. The lavendar is best for calming and stress relief, so I use that at night while I sleep, and while I’m reading. The eucalyptus is an exhilirating scent, so I use that when I am trying to focus on homework. It also is great if your nose is stuffy, so try it then too. The diffuser I got works super well and wasn’t absurdly expensive –> linked here. I ordered the Aura Cacia oils from Vitacost.

Dark Chocolate

In addition to tasting ridiculosuly delicious, dark chocolate contains lots of antioxidants that are great for overall health. The higher the precentage of cacao, the better. I prefer around 70% and I love bars with almonds. For maximum health benefits, it’s important to examine the ingredients panel and be sure there are few ingredients, no added milk/milk solids, and a low amound of sugar.

Adaptogens

These little miracle workers are a new addition to my diet. Adaptogens essentially help our body find balance and better adapt to stress (whether emotional/mental etc.). Mushrooms like Reishi are a great source, as well as Cordyceps + Ashwagandha. You can find these in powdered form, gel capsules, or even in superfood drinks like Rebbl (think- decadent chocolate milk that also helps our body adapt to stress better). These are part of my every day routine, but I tend to consume more when I can feel more stress coming in waves.

Books/Sodoku

Reading and doing sodoku are some of my favorite relaxing activities. Not only is it a great way to recharge the brain and bring your thoughts to rest, but it is a great activity before bed. Rather than scrolling through social media, glaring into the blue lights of electronic devices, try some good old paper (and pen) and grab a book or sodoku game. Plus, if you are prone to having a hard time sleeping, these activities can help to slow down your system and bring you to sleep at a reasonable hour.

 

What do you include in your self care routine? How do you make time for self care in a busy lifestyle? Let me know below!

Peanut Butter Krispie Bites (gf, v + soy free)

Doesn’t it seem like every blogger has their own variation of energy bites/balls/treats? Some are rolled in coconut flakes, some are matcha infused, and some even taste like cookie dough. Well, I thought it was time that I dove into the ball pit. See what I did there? But I wanted to have a straight forawrd recipe that was as equally simple as it was delicious. I just made these, nailed them on the first go, and it took me less than 15 minutes. Do I need to keep convincing you to go make these addicting little bites?

Peanut Butter Krispie Bites (gluten free, vegan, soy free)

• Servings: 12 bites
• Difficulty: easy
• Print

Ingredients:

• 1 cup organic dates (soaked in warm filtered water for ~10 mins + pitted)
• 2  tbsp chia seeds
• 1 heaping scoop The Natural Citizen Organic Protein
• 1/2 cup Wild Friends Creamy Peanut Butter
• 2-3 tbsp cup Enjoy Life chocolate chips
• 2-3 tbsp crispy brown rice cereal (I used Erewhon brand)

Method:

1. Drain dates from water and blend in a Vitamix, food processor, or other high-speed blender until they form a paste or a ball.
2. Scoop date paste out with a rubber scraper and flatten it into the bottom of a medium sized bowl.
3. Sprinkle the chia seeds and protein powder across the flattened layer, and then fold the mixture together. Continue until evenly mixed.
4. Add peanut butter and mix until evenly incorporated.
5. Spread mixture flat across the bottom of the bowl again, and sprinkle the chocolate chips and rice cereal over the layer. Fold together and thoroughly incorporate everything.
6. Steal a little bit and then roll into balls. Makes about 12 small balls.
7. Refrigerate for 20 mins to set. Store in the refrigerator.

This recipe is not only amazing as is, but it’s also a great starting point for you to create your own energy bite recipe! Be sure to tag me (@jenbenna) on Instagram if you recreate this! Would love to see your creations!

Apple Cinnamon Oats (gf, v + soy free)

Have you ever woken up craving apple pie? No? Just me? Well about a week ago I tried Health Warrior’s apple cinnamon chia bar and was blown away by how tasty it was. The next morning I crafted these apple cinnamon oats so I could indulge the healthy(er) way.

This oatmeal is packed with fiber from the oats, apples + chia seeds, keeping you fuller for longer, and helping out your gut micro biome at the same time! They also feature Natural Citizen’s Organic Protein. A couple month’s ago I starting using this as a great addition to oatmeal and smoothies. This powder is completely flavorless and contains only four ingredients, all of which are proteins! It truly is just straight up organic protein. Head on over to their page to check it out, along with their other supplement powders. I love the organic energy and digest as well for oats in the morning!

These Apple Cinnamon Oats are, easy, versatile, and require few ingredients to really hit the mark. Plus, you probably already have these ingredients in your pantry. Try it tomorrow morning!

Apple Cinnamon Oats (gf, sf + v)

• Difficulty: easy
• Print

Ingredients:

• 1 small/medium organic apple, diced (granny smith or pink lady work well)
• 3/4 tsp coconut oil/earth balance butter
• 1/2-1 tbl organic brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• dashes of nutmeg + ginger (optional)
• 1/2 cup organic gf oats
• 1 cup Califia farms toasted coconut almond milk
• 1/8-1/4 cup organic chia seeds
• dash vanilla
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1 1/2 scoop Natural Citizen Organic Protein

Method:

1. Add the chopped apple, coconut oil, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg + ginger to a small/medium saucepan. Warm over medium heat and allow to simmer until apples begin to soften a bit.
2. Once the apples are slightly softened, not mushy, add the oats, almond milk, chia seeds, vanilla + cinnamon and bring to a boil.
3. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let simmer for a couple minutes or until oatmeal begins to thicken.
4. Stir in protein powder until evenly incorporated and transfer to a bowl.
5. Great toppings include more chia seeds, a dash of cinnamon, some more apple slices + Health Warrior chia bar!

Kale Yeah! Caesar Salad (v, gf + df)

I HAVE SPENT T(W)OO MANY YEARS LIVING WITHOUT AUTHENTIC CAESAR DRESSING. Oops, caps lock got me again. But on the real, I’ve been vegan for over two years and spent the majority of that time Caesar-deprived. What kind of existence is that? What is better than caesar salad? Oh that’s right: KALE Caesar salad.

Kale is probably the best thing that’s happened to caesar salad..

In my journey to make the best caesar dressing, I stumbled across Oh She Glows’ crowd-pleasing caesar salad recipe. It was LIT. But you know me, I gotta be the best so I rolled with her recipe and made it a little more amazing with the addition of NOOCH. B12 holla!

LEGGGOOOO

Kale Yeah! Caesar Salad (vegan, gluten free + dairy free)

• Difficulty: easy
• Print

Dressing:

• 1 cup raw cashews (soak prior for 2 ish hours or overnight if you’re an adult)
• 1/3 cup purified water
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3/4 lemon juiced (save a little for the greens later on)
• 3 1/2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 2-4 fresh garlic cloves
• 1 tsp garlic powder (can you tell I like garlic?)
• 1/4-1/2 tsp dijon mustard
• 2 tsp capers w/ brine (if you remember to buy them, otherwise omit)
• fresh cracked pepper

Almond Parmesan:

• 3/4 cup almond flour (or grind up almonds in a blender into a fine consistency)
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 3 tbs nutritional yeast
• ~ 1 tsp garlic powder

Salad:

• organic romaine, chopped
• organic leafy green kale, ripped
• fresh squeeze of lemon juice
• almond parmesan (mix up all ingredients)

Directions:

1. Blend all dressing ingredients in Vitamix or food processor. Taste and adjust. The recipe I have is for a thicker consistency so if you like something thinner (it also thickens in the fridge) add more water/lemon juice
2. Toss greens together and squeeze lemon juice. Add my almond parmesan if you want. Top with copious dressing and massage into greens.
3. Wear a shirt that supports kale because you’ve offically been converted. KALEEE

 

Holiday Gift Guide 2016

The holiday season is upon us, and if you’re anything like me, you’ve waited for the last minute to go shopping for friends and family. Luckily, I have put together a jam-packed wishlist PERFECT for the healthy-foodie-amateur photographer in your life… mom are you listening??

Below, I’ve organized the items into a couple categories, so scroll through and check it out!

(red highlighted items are links for you!)

Stocking Stuffers:

1. Squarebars

These little bars pair well with oatmeal and smoothies but are even better as a tasty treat! Plus they sneak plant-based, non-gmo, gluten free protein in these sweet squares. By far my favorite flavor, especially this time of year, is chocolate coated almond spice. Other great flavors are chocolate coated mint + coconut. Grab a case for about $24 w/ free shipping using code: sydhfit (not my code, just the one I use) or just pick up at couple at your nearest health food store!

2. Bamboo toothbrush

Maybe it’s because my mom works in a dentist’s office, but I ALWAY get tooth care in my stocking. Instead of grabbing the traditional plastic ones from a store, opt for a more classy and eco-chic bamboo alternative. Not only are they super cute, they’re better for the environment!

3. Justin’s Dark PB mini cups

Chocolate is definitely a staple in holiday stockings. But most of the OG chocolate is chock full of oils and preservatives. Instead, pick up some Justin’s pb mini cups. You can find these at Target and health food stores like Earth Fare and Whole Foods. They’re inexpensive and a great sweet treat to toss into any gift!

4. Blender Bottles

These simple bottles are the difference between a chalky protein shake and a smooth creamy one. Plus, they come in a wide assortment of colors, and you can practically find them anywhere! If you’re looking for a gift for someone who works out or is interested in fitness, these make a great inexpensive gift.

5. Emmy’s Organic bites

Another great sweet treat for stockings and other small gifts- emmy’s bites. These, too, come in a range of flavors that you can personalize for your recipient. My favorite is definitely the chocolate chip cookie flavor- it’s a classic.

6. Subscription to VegNews

There is just nothing better than receiving mail-especially if it has anything to do with food! VegNews is a curated magazine that gives you the lowdown on all things plant-based. Whether it be recipes, new restaurants, or clothing lines- VegNews is your source for the latest in the vegansphere (is this a word? no).

7. Cocokind Chlorophyll mask + Chia facial oil

Last, but DEFINITELY not least are two Cocokind skincare products that I adore! The chlorophyll mask is a vibrant green powder you mix with water and apply. It seriously leaves your face glowing and bright. The chia facial oil is a simple yet effective moisturizer I love to use overnight. Not only are these products suitable for all skin types, but the company and aesthetic are unmatched. These make a great gift or stocking stuffer! These can sometimes be found at Bed Bath & Beyond, so check there first to avoid shipping costs!

8. A puppy

How did this get here…. mom are you listening yet??

Amateur Photography Gifts:

1. Amazon Basics tripod

This, besides my camera, was one of the first photography tools I acquired and I really don’t know what I’d do without it. Being a single chick in a college dorm, nobody is really there to take photos of me posing with food (this sounds so pathetic haha). Last year for Christmas my sister gifted me this tripod, along with a smartphone attachment which was really handy when my camera wasn’t working. This tripod is functional, expandable, and comes with a case. Plus it’s affordable and a must for anyone even moderately interested in photography!

2. Minimalist Baker’s Food Photography School

Dana from Minimalist Baker is an absolute hero and idol of mine. I have been following along with her blog and instagram pretty much since I went vegan. Her recipes are delicious, tried and tested, reliable, and EASY. Plus, her personality is vibrant and quirky and I just adore her. On her blog, she has a food photography school which covers every aspect of food blogging and even the social media side! This is, without a doubt, on my wishlist this year, and it’s a great gift for an aspiring food blogger!

3. Subscription to Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Photoshop is essential for bloggers of any kind. Editing photos can really elevate a photographer’s work when conditions aren’t that great. There are so many tools and options, which make it perfect for anyone interested in photography!

4. Food staging props

After you’ve learned to compose photography pieces, you really start to crave those cute little props that big food bloggers use. Here, I’ve linked some cute ones, but check out Home Goods or Target because I always find cute things there as well!

Some of my favorite pieces are:

• mason jars
• decorative utensils
• white bowls and plates
• bamboo/marble cutting boards
• small ramekins

5. DIY flatlay backgrounds

This is a great idea for a more “handmade” gift. Creating backgrounds is a great idea for food bloggers who need simple and creative backdrops for their flatlays and smoothie bowls. Below is a guide for making your very own.

http://www.thirteenthoughts.com/diy-white-marble-photography-background/

Foodie Gifts:

1. Minimalist Baker’s Everyday Cookbook

As mentioned above, I frickin love Dana from MB. This year for my birthday, I received her everyday cookbook and I love it! Her blog is already full of amazing recipes but some of her greatest dishes are in the cook book itself.

2. Amazing Grass superfoods

These are great for any health nut or foodie on your list. Each tub is full of amazing superfoods and greens that are in powder form- perfect for adding to smoothies. They come in a wide range of specialties and flavors so customize to your recipient!

3. Set of Simply Organic Spices

Simply Organic is, by far, my favorite spice brand. The quality is unmatched and the packaging is eco friendly and sophisticated. Curate a specialized set of these beautiful spices for your friend or family member! Pick from their wide range on Vitacost, to save some money too! My must haves: everyday blends garlic & herb, oregano, rosemary, garlic + onion powders, and cinnamon.

4. The Natural Citizen Boosters

This company. I just. LOVE THEM. Their products are straight forward and effective. Plus, the girls who run this MF are the definition of girl boss. Their products are a must have for the health food obessesed, plus their packaging is beyond compare.. I mean customer service is their gift! I love the organic energy, protein and digest!

5. Wild Friends Nut Butters

And finally, nut butter! Wild Friends is my favorite brand of nut butters. Whether it be the traditional pb or ab, or decadent chocolate flavors, this brand is hard to beat. Plus the packaging is adorable and the founders are so sweet! Pick up three of your friend’s favorite flavors and bundle them up for the perfect foodie gift. My favorite flavors are: Original peanut butter, Vanilla Espresso Almond Butter + Original Almond butter. Plus, they have their holiday flavors out so maybe throw in one of those as well. The nut butters can be found on their website,  vitacost, and at health food stores.