Meatless Southwesthern Spaghetti Squash

So, I haven't blogged about food in a while because for the last three weeks I've really tried to make better choices when it comes to my diet. When that happens, I tend to simplify our meals with a protein and a few sides or when in doubt, I just fix a salad.

That leaves for a very boring and lonely blog.

Until now.

I created a delicious lunch the other day and I was astounded at the amount I could eat, for relatively few calories. So here is what I did:

1 c. cooked spaghetti squash (I cook mine by slicing squash in half, scooping out the seeds, and microwaving in a water bath for 7-8 minutes, or until soft. Use a fork to scrape out the squash. Super simple!)
1 tsp. taco seasoning
3/4 tsp. cilantro paste
1/4 c. frozen peppers/onions
just less than 1/4 c. frozen chopped spinach
just less than 1/4 c. frozen chopped kale
1/4 c. canned corn
handful of cherry tomatoes, sliced
1/2 avocado, chunked
2 tbsp. corn/black bean salsa
1/4 c. fat free, plain Greek yogurt (as a substitute for sour cream)

Toss the first 7 ingredients in a sauce pan and simmer for about 10 minutes until frozen veggies are cooked. Top with remaining ingredients.

It was so easy it almost hurts and wait for it, this entire plate full of yummyness was only 208 calories (give or take because I estimated on certain ingredients, but still.) It was SO filling.

Do yourself a favor and make this - even if you aren't on a diet, you could toss in some meat of your choice and make it super hearty. You won't be disappointed.

SoapBox Soaps In Review

I was elated to be chosen for Influenster's SoapBox Soaps campaign, and when I opened my full sized bottles of (completely free) shampoo and conditioner, I was even more excited!

I have been a member of Influenster for about 4 months, and so far, I've had the opportunity to sample and review a slew of products, in addition to a few online campaigns for eBay gift cards. If you aren't a member of this incredible (FREE) platform, you should. Sign up here with my referral link.

My box included the Bataua Fruit version of SoapBox's shampoo and conditioner. It has a very uplifting, fruity aroma and has worked incredibly well for my 'normal' hair. And by normal, I mean that I don't have any issues with curls, coloring, or excessive grease. If anything, my hair is a bit on the flat side, but ultimately, it is very average. There are three other scents available in SoapBox's shampoos and conditioners: argon oil, coconut oil, and acai berry. Of the four scents, my favorites are the argon and coconut versions because they have a very sophisticated, neutral aroma that isn't too feminine or fruity.

The SoapBox shampoo leaves my hair feeling very clean and healthy. The conditioner is also much lighter in texture and density than most other conditioners. It does not have a heavy residue or leave my hair feeling weighed down.

My husband tested it, but unfortunately, he suffers from a very dry scalp and some mild dandruff, so this product didn't really help with that issue. Although Bataua fruit does help to nourish the hair and scalp, I think the Argon oil version would be more appropriate for his needs.

One of the best things about SoapBox products is their commitment to humanitarianism. For every bottle of shampoo, conditioner, or hand soap purchased, they contribute a month of safe drinking water or a bar of soap to a community or population in need. There is a code on the back of each SoapBox product that can be entered on their website for a review of how that purchase has helped someone else. In light of a recent earthquake in Nepal, I am thrilled that SoapBox is taking the initiate to offer assistance and relief when so many people there could us it.

I love the fact that by purchasing from SoapBox, I am also contributing to the greater good of global society. I also love being a part of Influenster and getting the chance to test out new products!

I received these products complimentary for testing purposes.