Tag: healthy

Eatin’ Clean in the Summertime

Is the weather driving you crazy over the summer? You’re either melting away from the scorching heat in one area, or suffering through severe storms in other areas.

It’s mid-July in California and we are right smack in the middle of a hot summer. However, right now is the best time to get your health on track before the busy school days start again in the fall. Fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables are abundant at this time of year, and it’s a great opportunity to get important nutrients in your body. Typically around the months from May-August, the sweetest fruits and the crispiest vegetables are in season, and eating clean is a wonderful way to get your health back in gear.

In the west coast with the sweltering heat it can get difficult to cook a homemade meal. I’m not a fan of grilling outdoors or even cooking over a hot stove when it’s over 85 degrees. I don’t even try to plan meals during the summer because we’re either working, traveling, or getting ready for school. But one thing I try to keep on track is eating healthy. It doesn’t really matter what time of year or the season, because eating healthy helps keep my energy up and running. If I can dedicate just 5 meals in the week to eating healthy, I’m aligned to my personal health goals. It might not be easy to eat clean and healthy when you’re busy, but it’s crucial to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

So what exactly does clean eating mean? Simply defined, clean eating is eating food that is unprocessed, preservative-free, and made with as few ingredients as possible. While many foods in the markets today are processed, the key is to avoid or limit overly processed foods as much as possible. Below are some steps to eating clean in the summertime and beyond. Keep track of what you eat in the summer so you can continue with a clean and healthy journey through all seasons.

Baked Falafel Sandwiches

5 steps to eating clean in the summer:

1- Buy fresh produce – organic and locally grown when possible. Fresh produce is the number one rule to eating clean and simple. Check out EWG’s Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen on the most and least toxic produce: https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/dirty-dozen.php

2- Buy whole grains and lean protein. Whole grains are still intact with all of their nutrients ensuring you’ll get all of the health benefits. Lean protein with little to no fat are not as taxing on your body when digesting and processing through your system.

3- Make meals and snacks from scratch at home. When you start with ingredients that you are in control of, you know what you’re putting in your food.

4- Use as few ingredients as possible. The risk of eating out or buying cooked food in stores is because of all the ingredients in there that companies need for flavor and preserving. When you make your own food, use just the basics – lean protein, vegetables, and seasonings that fit your lifestyle.

5- Limit sugar or cut it out entirely. While cutting out sugar entirely might be hard to do, try eating more fruits and using fruit-based sweeteners to sweeten your food.

Teach your children to eat clean and healthy:

1- Take your child to the grocery store with you. Let them start by learning about all the fresh produce that are available. If the stores have samples of the produce, encourage your child to try it out if it’s a fruit or vegetable that they typically don’t eat.

2- Depending on the age, have your child help you prepare the meals at home. Teach them and let them help you cut up from the fresh produce you just bought at the store. When children are involved in making meals from scratch, they feel a connection to the food they eat.

3- Serve up fresh fruits and cut them up in cute shapes if necessary. Mix it up once in awhile by including honey (for children over age 2) or plain yogurt for kids to dip their fruit in. Continue with this style of snacking so kids can learn to grab fresh fruits instead of an overly processed sugary snack.

4- Teach your kids to be mindful of what they eat. Don’t be distracted by the TV, tablet, or phone while you’re eating. Being mindful is an ancient practice to be more aware of what you are eating and how food should taste. It also helps with proper digestion of food.

5- Use simple recipes when it comes to teaching kids to eat clean. The less ingredients used, the more their taste buds can distinguish between processed food and food made with less ingredients.

6- Teach your children to read labels. If your child likes a certain store bought food, let them read the ingredient label as well as the labels on the packaging. If it’s a snack that isn’t all too healthy, let them see how many unpronounceable words there are in the ingredients list. You’d be surprised at their reactions to all the ingredients that they don’t recognize.

How to eat clean and healthy in restaurants:

1- If you can choose the restaurant, then choose one you regularly frequent. This way you already know what’s on the menu and how the restaurant and staff works.

2- If you know the name of the restaurant you’re attending (but you didn’t choose it), look at the menu online so you can get an idea of what’s available.

3- Get to know your server. The servers at restaurants are usually very accommodating. Peruse the menu first and ask the server ahead of time if they allow changes or alterations to the menu items. If they do, then know ahead of time what you’d like to order. If they don’t then just stick with the basics, such as a fresh salad, dressing on the side, and a fruit plate if it’s available. Then if the server brought out your dish accurately, be sure to tip well as they usually have to be specific with the chefs and food preps.

Whether you’re just starting to eat more clean or you’re a seasoned pro, remember to have a plan on how you want to eat clean. Make grocery lists, search online for ideas and tips such as mine, and have self control over what you eat.

Here’s to eating clean in the summer and beyond!

***photos courtesy of EWG, MarthaStewart.com, Pinterest

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products.

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

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Summer Gains, Winter Losses

In Southern California the heat rises, temperture flares, and outdoor plants wither. Oftentimes, I’d rather drink a cool beverage than slave over a hot stovetop.  The great thing that can come from hot summers is losing extra weight that was gained during the colder seasons. I’m not promoting eating less to lose extreme weight, but it’s easy to miss a meal or two when it’s too darn hot to cook or stand by a hot oven. Our own body temperatures fluctuate with the changing seasons, and we tend to feel sluggish and tired when the climate is hot, dry, or humid. The only caveat to eating less in hotter weather is that we might gain everything back again when the temperature cools down.

Tips during the summer months to help you through winter:

  • Realizing how important hydration is. Oftentimes we get too busy to hydrate ourselves, or too  tired to get up for some water. I bought a really cool new reusable tumbler that has an attached straw. It’s easy to fill up with ice and water and drink throughout the day.

 

  • Water isn’t the only type of hydration. Some people don’t like drinking plain water and will substitute it with juice and soda. But that isn’t the healthiest approach. If you’re not a plain water drinker, know that you can still get plenty of water intake from certain fruits with high water content: watermelon, strawberries, citrus fruits, kiwi, cantaloupe, grapes, and peaches just to name a few.

  • The importance of exercise. I exercise at home because I’m not a gym type of person, and sometimes I get lazy and don’t want to exercise or move around. But I know that isn’t great either, so I do at least minimal 20 minutes of exercise. Find the right type of exercise for your body and needs and participate at least 20 minutes a day. Exercise best when it’s early in the morning as your body is just waking up, or in the evening right before bedtime as your body is winding down.

 

  • Eat seasonally. While summer weather can get pretty crazy depending on where you live, it’s also my favorite season because of the fresh seasonal fruits. Living in the West coast can bring some really delicious and wholesome seasonal fruits and vegetables. Watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, peaches, cherries, apples, and cucumbers are all fresh and easy to find where I live. Take advantage of your regional area and find fresh fruits and vegetables that are in season. They are mostly decently priced and taste a whole lot better than when out of season.

 

  • Less sugar for longevity and slimmer bodies. I’m not a big sweets person, but I do love sweet food now and then. Sugar can cause and prolong various diseases in your body, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, skin problems, weight gain, and dental issues, to name a few. Sugar can be disguised in many forms and raise blood pressure that leads to many other health problems. Watch your intake of unnecessary added sugar especially in your food and beverages.

 

  • Start a new hobby. If you have school-aged children and they’re not at school or in camp, you might find summer to be the best time to learn something new with your children. Find something that you and your kids can enjoy and extend the hobby throughout their lifetimes, or at least through the year. Try planting a garden, learn how to use AI, learn a new craft, learn a new language, and try a new type of exercise such as martial arts, dance, etc. just to name a few.

 

  • Write down your goals for the rest of the year. When school starts again, my days blur into each other and oftentimes I’m left wondering how I can accomplish even the simplest of tasks. While I freelance at home and work at a school, time is essential to getting things done. Summer is a great time to write down your goals for the rest of the year. Your plans from earlier this year might have changed or needs adjustment. It’s okay to make changes to what fits best with your lifestyle.

Summertime quote by Wilma Rudolph

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products.

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

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In a World Full of T-Rexes Be a Brachiosaurus

Vegans and vegetarians get bad reps. People joke about them eating grass or are treehuggers, or any other combination of misunderstood allegations. So what exactly are the definitions of vegans and vegetarians? According to the Vegan Society (https://www.vegansociety.com/): Veganism is a philosophy and way of living which seeks to exclude—as far as is possible and practicable—all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose; and by extension, promotes the development and use of animal-free alternatives for the benefit of animals, humans and the environment. In dietary terms it denotes the practice of dispensing with all products derived wholly or partly from animals.                      A vegetarian has a similar philosophy except some vegetarians will include eggs and dairy in their diet and choose to not eat meat and seafood as a health choice. A plant-based diet is usually the normal food choice for vegetarians.

Being a vegan or vegetarian isn’t an easy choice, and oftentimes it takes years of self-discipline and practice to make it work. I became a vegetarian at a very young age, and if you’ve read any of my previous posts, you’ll know that I chose not to eat meat due to witnessing animal cruelty. While choosing a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle isn’t for everyone, it can be one of the best ways of staying healthy with the right diet, exercise, and mindset.

As a vegetarian, I have found eating the right balance of food quite a challenge. Many years ago when there weren’t a lot of food choices for me, I had to get really creative. Now that the new generations are trying to be more health conscious – whether as a trend or just general upgrading of life – you can find many alternatives to protein and other products that keep us healthy and thriving. For any beginner vegans or vegetarians, I’ve compiled a list of foods that are alternatives to eating meat. Even if you don’t choose this lifestyle, you can still see what other food choices you can make to keep your body and mind healthy.

Vegan and Vegetarian Protein:

  • Potato

  • Brown Rice

  • Spinach

  • Quinoa

  • Mushrooms of any type

  • Kidney Beans

  • Pinto Beans

  • Green Peas

  • Macadamia Nuts

  • Lima Beans

  • Wheat Bread

  • Garbanzo Beans

  • Lentils

  • Pecans

  • Soybeans

  • Walnuts

  • Hazelnuts

  • Cashew Nutts

  • Chia Seeds

  • Oats

  • Tofu

  • Flaxseed

  • Pistachio Nuts

  • Almonds

  • Hemp Seed

  • Peanut Butter

  • Pumpkin Seeds

You can add any of these plant proteins into your daily diet. Certain plants are high in amino acids which can generally be found in animal meat, but can also be found in these type of foods:

  • Chia Seeds

  • Yogurt

  • Vegetables that include Cabbage, Broccoli, Carrots, Eggplants, and Corn

  • Fruits that include Apples, Bananas, Cherries, Grapes, and Peaches

  • Soybean

  • Beans, Legumes, and Whole Grain

  • Mushrooms

  • Quinoa

  • Dairy and eggs for vegetarians who consume them

Whatever your reasons are for not eating meat and choosing a plant based diet, know that there are many wonderful food choices out there. Whether you’re doing it for ethical purposes or for health reasons, there are many benefits to eating a vegan and vegetarian diet.

Start off slowly by eliminating certain types of meat and slowly incorporating more plant based food. If you have specific dietary or health risks, please make sure you check with a health professional before going completely vegan or vegetarian.

Wishing you all a healthy 2024!!!

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products.

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

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***photos courtesy of ohmyveggies.com, Marthastewart.com, EatingWell

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2021 Holiday Digital Gift Guide

As we’re quickly closing in on the Christmas holiday and companies have started their Black Friday deals earlier this year, I wanted to offer you my annual holiday digital gift guide. In this guide, you’ll find products that fits everyone on your gift list. I usually start my gift list in October but have already started picking up gifts here or there if I think the recipient might enjoy it. Whatever you plan on doing this holiday season, know that even the smallest gift can pack a lot of meaning.

Whenever possible, support small business and family-owned. Support environmentally conscious brands and brands that do not use animal testing. Support businesses that give back. And support brands that are conscious of the health and wellness of their consumers. When we shop responsibly, we are also giving back to the world and generate better karma.

GIFTS FOR CHILDREN:

Whether it’s your own children, a relative, or friends, know that children will inevitably want something for Christmas. In the US, regardless of your religion or beliefs, you’ll see Christmas decorations and sales for this holiday season as early as October. To not break the bank this year and to reduce overall waste, here are some gifts that could last them a very long time.

  • DIY craft kits. One of my favorite craft kits is from Green Kids Crafts (https://www.greenkidcrafts.com/). Their craft boxes are great for children ages 5-12, but can be tailored for any child. While it’s a subscription type of gift, they do sell craft kits individually as well as unique single gifts. They focus on STEAM and support whole education for children with their craft kits.

  • Plants. Yes, most children LOVE growing their own plants! There’s just something so fun in watching the little seeds you planted grow into something beautiful and edible. Start off with seeds, soil, and either a small pot or in-ground and you’ll get your little gardener interested in nature very soon!

  • Green toys. What are green toys? They are toys made from non-toxic, renewable, and safe materials. Green Toys (https://www.greentoys.com/) has a delightful collection of fun and non-toxic toys ranging from toy cars, bath toys, arts & crafts, and so much more!

  • Museum tickets. Start children at a young age to appreciate various cultures. Whether it’s the arts, nature, or pop culture, children can benefit from learning about things that can expand their curiosity and intelligence.

  • Books. We are taught to read at a very young age and in school, books are usually required as an assignment. When you get kids interested in reading on their own terms, you help them develop a love for learning. Books, whether on paper or digitally will greatly benefit kids of any age.

GIFTS FOR CULINARY DELIGHTS:

Who doesn’t love great food, especially during the holiday season? But to give some truly unique and delectable food gifts means taking extra steps in finding the right ones.

   

  • Epicure – I recently discovered this fabulous company founded by two women who wanted to share their love for healthy food that’s also delicious and wholesome. Epicure foods are made with simple, organic, and allergy-friendly ingredients suitable for the whole family. Their products range from spice blends, meal solutions, protein blends, nutritional yeast toppers, dip mixes, salad dressings, desserts and chef quality cookware. You can find something for almost everyone of every need. Be sure to check out their specials going on right now: https://debradillabough.epicure.com/en-us

 

  • Gem City Fine Foods – One of the best things about allergy-friendly foods is that you can find new and exciting options. They offer delicious desserts that are gluten-free and vegan so they are suitable for almost everyone. Gem City Fine Foods is currently offering a holiday special on their Holiday Collection which includes gluten-free pumpkin cheesecake and peppermint chocolate torte: https://www.gemcityfinefoods.com/collections/holiday-collection. Be sure to use HOLIDAY21 for 21% off items in the Holiday Collection.

 

  • Popilicious – freshly made and scrumptious gourmet popcorn treats are suitable for kids and adults. These uniquely blended popcorn cakes and popcorn bites offer a truly unique marriage of flavor profiles. From chocolate to pumpkin to peppermint, gifting these popcorn treats and getting some for yourself is a fun way to celebrate the holiday season. Right now, use code HOLIDAY15 to get 15% off: https://popiliciouspopcorn.com/

GIFTS TO CLEAN LIVING:

Clean living is a term for using products made from simple and non-toxic ingredients. From bath products to food to clothing, we can start our journey to living cleaner and healthier and go beyond by supporting brands who live by this rule.

  • Plaine Products. Founded by two sisters who wanted to better the world by reducing plastic waste, Plaine Products carry natural and organically made products for body, face, and hands. Their wide range of products come in reusable aluminum cans and a returnable empty cans option. They have a great gift section suitable for children, men, and women: https://www.plaineproducts.com/ref/Suzan%20C./. Be sure to use code HappyMom for 20% off.

  • Mermaid Straws. I’ve been using their reusable straws and beverage bottles for a couple of years and their beautiful designs and high quality products are always a joy to use. These fun and gorgeous bottles, straws, and gift pouches made wonderful gifts for others and to keep some for yourself too! Be sure to use code SCG_MAMA.15 for 15% off: https://bit.ly/3gEArzH

  • Beekeeper’s Naturals. This holiday season, gift immune boosting gifts that the whole family will enjoy. Beekeeper’s Naturals makes honey products that go beyond just basic honey. With their curated bee pollen and bee propolis which is known for their antibacterial properties, you’re gifting your loved ones honey that tastes phenomenal but is also great for them. Be sure to use code Happymomblogger15 for 15% off: http://www.beekeepersnaturals.com/

  • Gourmet Tea. One of the best thing about tea is their magnificent health benefits. From antioxidative stress to losing weight, tea isn’t just for tea lovers. It’s the perfect beverage for when you want to wake up, wind down, or just have as a regular beverage. Tea Drops is one of my most favorite brands of gourmet tea. Tea that is made with only natural and organic ingredients, Tea Drops tea are adorably shaped into hearts, ovals, and Hello Kitty! My son loves Tea Drops and I’ve gifted so many people with their tea that it’s always a delight for them! Be sure to use code: BA-suzan20 for 20% off: https://bit.ly/34DUWKF

  • Organic Chocolate. For the chocolate lovers in your life or just someone who likes to indulge now and then, gifting organically grown chocolates is a great way to offer something healthy and delicious, but also supports the organic cacao industry. Be sure to check out small farm and fair-trade companies such as Equal Exchange: https://equalexchange.coop/, Alter Eco: https://www.alterecofoods.com/, and Unreal: https://www.unrealsnacks.com

  • Simply Straws. I found this women-owned brand by chance one day and immediately fell in love with their gorgeous glass straws. Once I started using glass straws, I knew it would be an instant addition to my everchanging range of reusable straws. Their glass straws are beautiful to look at and so easy to use. It’s similar to using a glass cup and glass straws look stunning with everything you drink from! Right now, Simply Straws is offering a “12 Days of Gifting” where each day there is a special on their site: https://simplystraws.com/. You’ll definitely find some wonderful gifts for practically everyone on your list!

With this list, you will definitely find something for the people in your lives. Anything from eco-friendly toys to food to bath products, there is sure to be something that will delight your recipient!

Wishing you all a peaceful, joyful, and healthy Holiday Season!

 

Photos provided by websites included in post.

Affiliate disclaimer: some of these links you click through and purchase can provide me with a minimal affiliate commission. I truly appreciate your participation.

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products.

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

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Earth Day – April 22, 2016

earthday-promo

I’d like to think that every day should be Earth Day. After all, we live in a world where we have mast resources of practically anything we can get our hands on. Yet, as humans living on this planet, we are also destructing our own world and endangering our precious environment.

Earth Day was officially coined in April 1970 by a US Senator as the day to support environmental protection and awareness. Now celebrated across the world, Earth Day can be celebrated with even the smallest of acts. No gesture is too small for every step in helping the environment get healthy and abundant is the right step.

Following are some simple steps taken from New Hope Network (http://deliciousliving.com/green-living/4-ways-pay-it-forward-earth-day?cid=nhbc#slide) on how you can help this Earth Day:

You always recycle. You buy organic. But in honor of Earth Day (April 22), why not up the eco-friendly ante? Here are four fun ways you can show Mother Earth a little love.

  1. Live near a beach or a river? Organize a waterside cleanup day in your community. Offer prizes for the people who collect the most junk.

watersidecleanup-earthday

  1. Instead of spraying weeds with herbicides, pour boiling water over weeds (just don’t splash the plants you actually want to keep).

weedkiller-dlearthday

  1. If you’re up for a bigger project, transfer your water-sucking green lawn into a xeriscape, which uses attractive, native dry-loving plants to boost curb appeal.

xeriscapeit-earthday

  1. Bring along small cotton bags to use in the grocery bulk and produce sections, instead of flimsy plastic bags. (Pictured: Flip & Tumble Produce Bags)

producebags-earthday

So this Earth Day, pick up trash around your neighborhood, plant some trees or flowers, recycle responsibly, reuse what you can, turn off electricity when not in use, reduce your water usage, use recyclable water bottles, and pretty much anything you can put your mind to as long as you commit to helping the world become a cleaner and healthier place.

HAPPY EARTH DAY!

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Garlic Gold – Products Worth Reviewing and Special Offer

We’re true garlic eaters in our household. I was raised on eating garlic in practically every meal. I can eat garlic in its raw form or cooked, but either way, there’s just something about the unique spiciness and bitter flavor of garlic that satisfies my taste buds. I’ve slowly trained my son to enjoy garlic too and that’s mostly because garlic is so good for you and the uses are abundant. And, until recently, I didn’t know there was a new way of enjoying garlic – and that comes in the form of toasted garlic bits, made by Garlic Gold. Garlic Gold makes organic garlic products and we were immediately seduced by the crunchy, toasty, and slightly sweet flavor of Garlic Gold’s garlic nuggets.

Garlic Gold, which they are called hand-crafted, artisanal, gourmet garlic food products, comes in the form of garlic nuggets, garlic oil, and garlic vinaigrettes. They use only certified organic ingredients in all of their garlic-themed products and with their product line so simple and straightforward, you’re sure to find a product that will become your kitchen’s main staple. Only problem is, they’re so delicious, that they won’t last long in your kitchen. Garlic Gold’s distinctive combination of organic garlic and organic cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil really sets the standard for all things garlic. Their garlic products can be enjoyed with virtually any dish or eaten alone, as my son and I find ourselves doing every time.

Garlic Gold began with a young chef and his chef dad in the hopes of developing something “garlicky” that can be enjoyed by everyone and everywhere. Their school project turned into a huge success when the likes of food icons David Rosengarten, Chef Emeril and Kath Younger tried Garlic Gold’s products and were instantly hooked. Garlic Gold’s products are hand-crafted to this day still and the simple concept of merging garlic and olive oil became more than just a condiment – it became a step above all other garlic condiments. When my son, my husband, and I first tasted Garlic Gold’s gold nuggets, we were so amazed at the incredibly wonderful taste of their garlic nuggets. When I read the ingredients, I was a bit surprised that it contained only organic garlic, and organic olive oil. I was imagining an array of salt additives or enhancers that made it so scrumptious, but I think what really made it excel in flavor was the fact that it was hand toasted to a perfect crunchiness. The crunch is just right – not too hard, and not too mushy. It was garlic heaven indeed!

I think what makes Garlic Gold products really exceptional is the fact that their ingredients are simple yet sophisticated. Most everyone knows the taste of garlic and yet with Garlic Gold, the garlic in their ingredients are sweeter and smoother with a slight undertone of bitterness to it. And the fact that organic extra virgin olive oil is used instead of regular cooking oil really helps with the garlic nuggets not being too greasy and the blend of olive and garlic flavor meshes perfectly. Their products are also really easy to use – you don’t even have to chop up the garlic yourself. Just add the garlic nuggets into prepared dishes or, you can add it while you’re cooking to give it that “secret” garlicky flavor everyone will be asking you about.

Garlic Gold currently carries the following products:

Garlic Gold – a blend of toasted organic garlic and organic extra virgin olive oil. Drizzle this over bread, vegetables, seafood, as a dip, or stir-fried into dishes and you’ll have an excellent taste of toasty garlic and olive oil flavor.

Garlic Gold Nuggets (Original, Italian Herb, Parmesan, and Sea Salt) – these are toasted with organic extra virgin olive oil to a perfect crunchiness! They are great sprinkled over rice, pasta, vegetables, soup, or eaten by itself.

Garlic Gold Oil – a blend of garlic and extra virgin olive oil in a delectable infusion. Use this in place of your regular olive oil to give it that unique garlicy flavor.

Garlic Gold Vinaigrettes (Meyer Lemon, Classic Balsamic, and Red Wine) – use this as you would with any vinaigrettes; as a dressing, a marinade, a dip, or however way you would like it.

Garlic Gold’s headquarters nestles in Ventura, California and they make and test all of their products in their “certified organic kitchen”. In their facility, they also create new and interesting recipes that can be found on their website: http://garlicgold.com/garlic-gold-recipes/. Their products can be found in most natural grocery stores and I’ve seen them in certain national supermarkets. You can also purchase their products online. Since I discovered Garlic Gold not too long ago, they sent me some of their products to try and review. I tried their entire line of Garlic Gold Nuggets and their Garlic Gold Oil and I have to say, their nuggets didn’t last very long in our cupboard. My son ate them all – he would sprinkle them on the palm of his hand or in his spoon and eat them straight up! Garlic Gold has also offered readers of Happymomblogger a 20% off discount at their online store for a limited time . Just enter: happymom20 in the “coupon code” area when you’re checking out. Here is the direct link to their website: http://garlicgold.com/. Trust me, you will not be disappointed at Garlic Gold’s delicious and ultra-scrumptious organic garlic condiments! Since garlic and olive oil has so many health benefits, why not try them in a different way? And if you have trouble getting your kids to eat anything – try sprinkling some Garlic Gold nuggets on their dishes – they’ll gobble up their food!

 Here is a dish I made with organic tofu, broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, onions, teriyaki sauce, and Garlic Gold Nuggets.

Here is a photo from their website: Sausage Spinach Fritatta.

Here is another photo from their website: Asparagus Rotini.

Hurry! The 20% off discount ends on July 28, 2011! Enter: happymom20 at checkout.

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products. 

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

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