My Quest for Greatness

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I remember researching “enlightenment” at 14 years old.  I wasn’t quite sure what I was looking for, but I knew that something inside me sought answers.   I wanted to learn about life and intention. Little did I know it would be the experiences throughout the next decade that would teach me the all-too-important lessons a book never could.

To say the last several years had their share of ups and downs would be a slight understatement.  It hasn’t been an easy journey… yet I wouldn’t have it any other way.  

My quest for greatness begins with what I strive for in life:  authenticity, integrity and purpose. 

Authenticity (def): the degree to which one is true to one's own personality, spirit, or character, despite external pressures.

Perfect.  How often do we hear that?  Perfection was so important to me; it caused me to abandon my authenticity.  I had the picture perfect life planned at 14: graduate high school, go to a great college, meet a beautiful girl, get married, buy a house, have kids and grow old.  It was simple.

Sometimes life doesn’t go as planned.  The reality ended up quite different from my “plan” and I couldn’t allow myself to let go of what I thought “perfect” should be.  Why?  I have discovered we often try to show everyone that we are flawless in hopes that we will be liked and accepted.  Not only is it impossible to please everyone; we shouldn’t even try.

Our beauty lies in our vulnerability, our love, our complex emotions - our authentic imperfections.  When we embrace who we are and choose to be authentic, instead of perfect, we open ourselves to deep meaningful relationships and real happiness. There is no need to pretend to be someone you’re not.  You are perfectly imperfect just the way you are.

MY LIFE

Integrity (def): the concept of consistency of actions, values, methods, measures, and principles.

Another pivotal discovery in my adult life is that circumstance does not define character… integrity does.  Aristotle said it best with, “we are what we repeatedly do.”

Being rebellious in high school does not define me as “bad ” just the same as graduating college with honors does not define me as “good”.  Serving on active duty in the Marine Corps does not define me as a “jarhead” the same way I am not a “frat boy” because I joined a fraternity.  I am nothing in quotation marks.  I am me.

As long as I strive to consistently align my thoughts with my actions, I will live with integrity.  It is my belief that integrity is the glue between authenticity and purpose.

Purpose (def): the reason for which something is done or created or for which something exists.

When I discuss finding and living your purpose, I’m not referring to placing your life on hold to discover something mysterious that’s hidden somewhere nearly impossible to reach.

I genuinely believe we all have a unique arrangement of strengths, experiences and passions that blend together in unexplainable ways, leading us to our most authentic, purpose driven lives.

It is almost too easy to get wrapped up in the notion that “someday when I’ve figured it all out and I’ve discovered my purpose, I’ll be happy and until then my life sucks”.  Living a life of purpose is all about knowing that our highest goal or ultimate purpose is seeing just how consistently we can plug into the best within us.  With that as our goal, every moment gives us an opportunity to be on purpose.

“In life we do things.  Some we wish we had never done. Some we wish we could replay a million times in our heads.  But they all make us who we are, and in the end they shape every detail about us.  If we were to reverse any of them we wouldn’t be the person we are.  So just live.  Make mistakes.  Have wonderful memories.  But never ever second guess who you are, where you have been, and most importantly where it is you’re going.” –Unknown

Here I stand on my personal quest for greatness. Striving to live with authenticity, integrity and purpose. Excited to embrace the growth and development as I focus on only that which I can control.  No regrets, no worry of the past for it is has led me to this moment that I wouldn’t trade for the world.  Proud of the  life I’ve created, as it all makes sense when I look back to connect the dots.  It is perfectly imperfect and it has only begun.

To your quest,

Mike Sherbakov  

Salmon Broccoli Scramble

Salmon, broccoli and egg whites combine for the perfect protein-packed breakfast. Add a side of avocado for healthy fats and a serving of fruit for a delicious start to your day.
Servings: 2

Here's what you need...

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 cup fresh broccoli, cut into small pieces
• 5 egg whites
• 8oz grilled or smoked salmon, separated into small pieces
• dash of salt and pepper

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 225 calories, 7g fat, 557mg sodium, 6.5g carbohydrate, 1g fiber, and 33g protein. 

-Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow-

Mike Sherbakov, CSCS, RYT, CPT

Guilt-Free Cobbler

This recipe makes a perfect dessert for any time of the year. I used peaches, but feel free to substitute with apples or pears. Traditional cobblers and pies are filled with fat and sugar - this recipe is much lighter, but will satisfy your sweet tooth just as well. 
Servings: 1 

Here's what you need:

• 1 sweet, ripe peach (or apple or pear)
• coconut cooking spray
• 1 teaspoon agave nectar
• pinch of sea salt
• pinch of freshly ground cinnamon

1. Wash, peel and pit the peach. Chop into bite-sized pieces.
2. Pre-heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Spray lightly with coconut cooking spray.
3. Saute the peach pieces for about a minute, then add the agave nectar, salt and cinnamon. Continue to saute for another few minutes until it turns a deep golden color.
4. Serve and enjoy immediately!

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 53 calories, .2g fat, 100mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate, 1.8g fiber, and 1g protein. 

-Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow-

Mike Sherbakov, CSCS, RYT, CPT

Wild Blackened Catfish

Any caveman would be proud of this catch! Wild caught catfish is delicate and flaky, with loads of flavor. Catfish contains healthy fatty acids, provides complete protein, is a source of vitamin B-12, and is low in mercury. Pair it with dark leafy greens and some fruit for the perfect caveman meal. 
Servings: 4 

Here's what you need...

• 2 teaspoon olive oil
• 4 fillets wild caught catfish
• blackened seasoning (try Cajun's Choice)
• 1 lemon, sliced

1. Preheat oven to 350. Lightly oil a glass pan.
2. Coat the catfish fillets in the olive oil. Generously apply the seasoning to both sides of each fillet.
3. Line the fillets in prepared pan, and top with sliced lemon.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until flaky.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 160 calories, 9g fat, 120mg sodium, 0g carbohydrate, 0g fiber, and 17g protein. 

-Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow-

Mike Sherbakov, CSCS, RYT, CPT

Protein Pumpkin Pancakes

Enjoy these tasty pumpkin pancakes without guilt. Made with almond meal and packed with protein from eggs, these pancakes are sure to satisfy without shortchanging your results. 
Servings: 5

Here's what you need…

• 4 large eggs
• 3/4 cup egg whites
• 1 can of pumpkin
• 1 cup almond meal
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• dash of nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• cooking spray

1. In a medium bowl, mix all of the ingredients together.
2. Heat pancake griddle to medium heat and coat with cooking spray.
3. Cook each side about 3 minutes until brown, then flip and cook remaining side.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 255 calories, 15g fat, 112mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate, 5g fiber, and 19g protein. 

-Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow-

Mike Sherbakov, CSCS, RYT, CPT

Sesame Chopped Salad

This has to be one of my favorite recipes.  Super healthy, super tasty.

• 1 cup cabbage
• 1 carrot
• 1 green onion
• 1 Tablespoon fresh cilantro
• 1 Tablespoon sliced almonds
• 2 teaspoons sesame low fat dressing
• 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast

1. Chop the cabbage, carrot, onion and cilantro into very small pieces. Add the almonds and toss with dressing.
2. Top with chopped chicken breast.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 276.5 calories, 7.5g fat, 468mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate, 7g fiber, and 26g protein. 

-Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow-

Mike Sherbakov, CSCS, RYT, CPT

Easy Egg Muffins

Here is the perfect snack to enjoy guilt-free. Each muffin is packed with protein that will fuel your day and support muscle growth. Make a bunch of these and save them in the fridge for snacks-on-the-go.
Servings: 6 

Here’s what you need…

• 6 omega-3, organic, free range eggs
• 1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1/8 cup of organic shredded cheese
• sprinkle of salt and pepper

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Line muffin tins with paper liners or grease lightly.
3. Mix up the eggs, add bell pepper, cheese and seasonings. Fill 6 muffin tins.
4. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the egg is fully set.

Nutritional Analysis: One muffin equals: 89 calories, 6g fat, 120mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate, .16g fiber, and 7.5g protein. 

-Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow-

Mike Sherbakov, CSCS, RYT, CPT

Chocolate Protein Pudding

Here is a protein packed snack that the whole family will love. It's important to enjoy snacks that are low in carbohydrates and sugar, and high in protein in order to shed body fat and develop healthy muscles. This recipe delivers on all fronts, without sacrificing flavor. 
Servings: 1 

Here's what you need...

• 6 oz Greek Yogurt, plain, fat free
• 1 scoop high quality chocolate protein powder
• Sprinkle of unsweetened cocoa powder

1. In a small bowl use a whisk to combine the yogurt and protein powder. Mix until all lumps have disappeared.
2. Garnish with a sprinkle of unsweetened cocoa powder.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 220 calories, 0g fat, 445mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate, 0g fiber, and 42g protein. 

-Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow-

Mike Sherbakov, CSCS, RYT, CPT

 

S.G. French Toast

Sprouted Grain French Toast. Just because you gave up white bread and sugar doesn't mean that you can't enjoy a delicious plate of French Toast! This recipe is made with sprouted grain bread, egg whites and protein-packed Greek yogurt. The whole family will love it. Servings: 5

Here's what you need...

• 5 slices cinnamon raisin, sprouted grain bread
• 1 cup egg whites
• 6 oz fat free, Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• dash of salt
• Optional: additional fat free Greek yogurt and pomegranate seeds for topping.

1. Preheat a skillet, or pancake griddle over medium high heat. Lightly coat with cooking spray.
2. In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg whites, yogurt, vanilla, cinnamon and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Dip each slice of bread in the egg white mixture, flipping to coat each side. Place on the prepared skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side, until the eggs set and turn golden.
4. Serve immediately with the additional yogurt and pomegranate.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 127 calories, 0 fat, 157mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate, 2g fiber, and 12g protein. 

-Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow-

Mike Sherbakov, CSCS, RYT, CPT

Breakfast Protein Parfait

Here's a great recipe to make the night before for an easy grab-n-go breakfast straight out of the fridge. It's packed with protein, vitamins and minerals for sustained energy all morning long. And it tastes great too.

Servings: 1

Here's what you need...

• 1/4 cup Greek Yogurt, plain or fat free
• 1/4 cup low fat cottage cheese
• 1 scoop high quality strawberry or vanilla protein powder
• 1/4 cup fresh berries
• 1 Tablespoon pecan pieces, toasted

In a small bowl use a whisk to combine the yogurt, cottage cheese and protein powder. Mix until well incorporated. Place half of the yogurt mixture into a clear cup, top with the berries and then the remaining yogurt mixture. Top with pecans.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 260 calories, 6g fat, 307mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate, 4g fiber, and 38g protein.

-Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow- 

Mike Sherbakov, CSCS, RYT, CPT

A Twist on Tuna Salad

Most recipes for tuna salad call for fat-filled mayonnaise, but this recipe uses fat free Greek yogurt instead. You get all the creaminess without added calories to set back your results.

Servings: 5

Here's what you need...

• 2 (5oz) cans wild albacore tuna, packed in water
• 1 cup fat-free Greek yogurt
• 2 Tablespoons champagne mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried dill weed, plus more for garnish
• Dash of freshly ground pepper
• 1 green apple, shredded
• 2 cups green cabbage, shredded
• 4 cups organic mixed greens

Drain the tuna and flake in a medium bowl. Add the yogurt, mustard, dill and pepper. Mix until creamy and well combined. Add the shredded apple and cabbage. Mix well. Arrange mixed greens on plates, then use an ice cream scooper to place the tuna mixture. Sprinkle with dill weed.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 140 calories, 1 fat, 210mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate, 2g fiber, and 20g protein.

-Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow- 

Mike Sherbakov, CSCS, RYT, CPT

Breakfast Bird Nest

You know that curbing your carbs will help you lose weight and tone up, so try this low carb breakfast. It's a great way to eat some veggies with breakfast.
Servings: 4

Here's what you need...

• 4 large, round tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 slices organic, nitrate-free turkey bacon, chopped
• dash of dried oregano, plus more for garnish
• optional dash of salt (added salt is not in nutritional analysis)
• dash of pepper
• 4 organic, omega-3, free range eggs

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Wash tomatoes, slice off the tops and scoop out the insides. Place tomatoes on a pan, and bake for 5 minutes.
3. In a skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add garlic. Add onion. Add chopped bacon. Saute for 5 minutes, until mostly cooked. Add the spices and mix well.
4. Turn oven to broil.
5. Fill each tomato with the bacon mixture, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top of each tomato. Crack an egg into each tomato then sprinkle with oregano. Place in the oven under broiler for 5 minutes. Remove from oven once the top has set, and you'll have perfectly done over easy eggs.
6. For well done eggs: change oven temperature back to 400 degrees F, and continue to bake for an additional 10 minutes.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 98 calories, 5g fat, 162mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate, .6g fiber, and 9g protein.

-Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow-

Mike Sherbakov, CSCS, CPT, RYT

Shredded Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Another sure-fire way to feel better than ever is to eat a diet that is high in fiber and protein and low in refined sugar and carbohydrates. These shredded chicken lettuce wraps are easy to make and will keep you on track with your healthy, fit lifestyle.
Servings: 6

Here's what you need...

• 1 Tablespoon chile pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 Tablespoon dried oregano
• 1/2 cup lime juice, divided
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• 6 whole chicken legs
• 3 cups shredded cabbage
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 6 large butter lettuce leaves

1. In a small bowl combine the chile pepper, salt, pepper, oregano, 1/4 cup of the lime juice and the olive oil. Place the chicken in a large baking pan and coat with the seasoning mixture. Cover and refrigerate for 4 hours.
2. Meanwhile, in a large bowl combine the cabbage, onion, cilantro and remaining 1/4 cup lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate for 4 hours.
3. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Roast the chicken legs for 40 minutes.
4. When the chicken has cooled, discard the skin and bones and shred the chicken.
5. Fill each lettuce leaf with a spoonful of cabbage mixture, topped with shredded chicken.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 248 calories, 12 fat, 740mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate, 2g fiber, and 26.7g protein.

-Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow-

Mike Sherbakov, CSCS, CPT, RYT

Creamy Egg Salad

Most recipes for egg salad call for fat-filled mayonnaise, but this recipe uses fat free Greek yogurt instead. You get all the creaminess without added calories to set back your results.
Servings: 3 Here's what you need…

• 8 organic, free range eggs
• 4 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 Tablespoons onion greens, chopped
• 1/4 cup non fat Greek yogurt
• 2 teaspoons champagne mustard
• 1 teaspoon fresh squeezed lemon
• dash of salt and pepper

1. To boil the perfect egg: place eggs in a large pot and cover with cold water by half an inch. Heat the water to a boil, turn off the heat and cover the pot. Wait exactly 7 minutes, and then place the eggs in a bowl of ice water for 3 minutes.
2. Peel and chop hard boiled eggs, discarding 4 yolks. Place in a large bowl. Add celery, onion greens, yogurt, mustard, lemon, salt and pepper. Mix well.
3. Chill and then serve.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 148 calories, 7 fat, 212mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate, 1g fiber, and 16g protein.

-Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow-

Mike Sherbakov, CSCS, CPT, RYT

Poached Pears & Cottage Cheese

Here's a recipe that serves your sweet tooth like a dessert without derailing your results. Poaching pears is a simply, easy process. The pears end up sweet and tender, like canned pears, but without the added sugars. Serving with low fat cottage cheese adds protein and makes this snack filling and nutritious.
Servings: 6

Here's what you need...

• 4 cups fresh squeezed orange juice
• 4 cups water
• 1 (2 inch) piece fresh ginger, peeled
• 6 whole cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• zest from an orange
• 6 pears
• 3 cups low fat cottage cheese

1. Place all ingredients, except pears in a large saucepan over low heat.
2. Wash, peel and core the pears. Use a small melon baller to scoop out the core from the bottom of the pear.
3. Place all the pears in the saucepan, making sure that all the pears are fully covered with liquid.
4. Bring the pot to a simmer for 30 minutes. When the pears are soft, but not mushy, remove from liquid.
5. Serve each pear over 1/2 cup of cottage cheese.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 177 calories, 1 fat, 452mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate, 5g fiber, and 15g protein.

-Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow-

Mike Sherbakov, CSCS, CPT, RYT

Lettuce Wrapped Fish Tacos

These tacos are the perfect get-ready-for-beach-season meal. Flaky, protein-filled fish topped with mango salsa and wrapped in a crunchy guilt-free lettuce leaf. It's flavorful, satisfying and will keep you on track with your fitness goals.
Servings: 8

Here's what you need...

• 4 (3.5oz) Cod Fillets
• 1/2 cup tropical vinaigrette
• 1 lime
• 4 large pieces of butter lettuce
• 4 Tablespoons guacamole
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 4 Tablespoons mango salsa

1. Marinate the cod fillets in dressing for 20 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a pan with olive oil.
3. Place marinated cod in prepared pan, cut lime in half and squeeze juice over cod. Bake for 15 minutes.
4. While cod is baking, separate leaves from lettuce, being careful to keep them intact. Assemble individual tacos by putting a tablespoon of guacamole on a lettuce leaf, topped with 1/4 cup of cabbage.
5. Once fish is done, change oven to broil for a few minutes, watching closely until top is browned. Remove from oven.
6. Top each prepared taco with a piece of fish, a spoonful of salsa, and a slice of the remaining lime half.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 141.5 calories, 2.5 fat, 61mg sodium, 4.8g carbohydrate, 1.2g fiber, and 23g protein.

-Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow-

Mike Sherbakov, CSCS, CPT, RYT

Classic Chopped Salad

This salad is filled with tender roasted veggies and crunchy fresh lettuce. These foods are fresh and fiber-filled – exactly the kind of meal that defines clean eating. Add a side of lean protein and a tall glass of water for the perfect meal. Servings: 4

Here's what you need...

• 1 cup asparagus, chopped
• 4 large carrots, chopped
• 5 green onions, chopped
• 1 green zucchini
• 1 yellow zucchini
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• dash of salt and pepper
• 4 cups of romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup kalamata olives, chopped
• 2 Tablespoon pine nuts, toasted

For the dressing:

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 2 Tablespoons lime juice
• 1 Tablespoon agave nectar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon champagne mustard

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Place the asparagus, carrot, onion and zucchinis in a large bowl, mix well with the olive oil and salt and pepper. Place on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, stirring after the first 10 minutes.
2. Meanwhile place the remaining salad ingredients into a large bowl. In a small bowl combine all of the dressing ingredients and whisk with a fork.
3. Once the veggies are roasted, mix into the salad bowl and toss with the dressing.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 148.3 calories, 8g fat, 182mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate, 5g fiber, and 5g protein.

-Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow-

Mike Sherbakov, CSCS, CPT, RYT

Sweet Paprika Chicken & Veggies

Here's a new and tasty way to prepare lean chicken and nutritious veggies. Meals that are high in protein and fiber, like this, are exactly what you need to be eating in order to see amazing results.
Servings: 8

Here's what you need...

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 16 oz of skinless, chicken tenders
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 red onion, chopped
• 4 carrots, chopped
• 3 heirloom tomatoes, chopped
• 2 green bell peppers, seeded and chopped
• 2 Tablespoons coconut flour
• 2 Tablespoons sweet paprika

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.
2. Season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet, over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook, turning occasionally until browned. Transfer to a roasting pan.
3. Add the vegetables to the skillet and maintain the heat on medium. Cook, stirring often, until the onion is translucent. Sprinkle in the flour and paprika and stir well. Bring to a boil and cook until the tomatoes give off their juices, about 10 minutes. Pour the veggies over the chicken and cover.
4. Bake for 30 minutes, uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 211 calories, 3 fat, 390mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate, 5.5g fiber, and 29g protein.

-Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow-

Mike Sherbakov, CSCS, CPT, RYT

Quick Chickpea Salad

Preparing healthy, fresh meals doesn't have to take hours of your day. This tasty salad is filled with protein, fiber and nutritious veggies. Prepares in 10 minutes.
Servings: 4 Here's what you need…

• 1 (15oz) can chickpeas
• 1 zucchini
• 2 tomatoes

For the dressing:

• 2 Tablespoons parsley, minced
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 2 Tablespoons lime juice
• 1 Tablespoon agave nectar

1. Drain the chickpeas, but do not rinse. Place in a medium sized bowl.
2. Slice the zucchini lengthwise, rotate and slice lengthwise again to form 4 long pieces. Chop into small slices and add to the bowl.
3. Cut the tomato into 4 pieces. Scoop out the seeds and discard. Chop into small pieces and add to the bowl.
4. In a small bowl combine the dressing ingredients. Pour over the chickpea mixture and mix well.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 138 calories, 2.5g fat, 188mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate, 4g fiber, and 6g protein.

-Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow-

Mike Sherbakov, CSCS, CPT, RYT

Quinoa Fruit Salad

This refreshing summer salad is made with quinoa. Quinoa is a gluten-free, protein-packed seed. It's a complete protein, containing all 9 essential amino acids. Add a side of lean protein to your salad and you've got a highly nutritious, balanced meal.
Servings: 6

Here's what you need...

• 3/4 cup plain non-fat greek yogurt
• 2 Tablespoons lime juice, divided
• 1-15 fresh mint leaves, minced
• 2 cups cooked quinoa
• optional dash of salt and pepper
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1 cup green grapes, halved
• 1/2 cup raspberries
• 1 teaspoon agave nectar

1. In a small bowl combine the yogurt, 1 tablespoon lime juice and the mint. Pour over the cooked quinoa and mix well. Season with salt and pepper.
2. In another bowl combine the fruit, agave nectar and remaining lime juice.
3. Cover and refrigerate each bowl for 2 hours, to allow the flavors to emerge, then combine the fruit with the quinoa and serve.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 114 calories, 1 fat, 13mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate, 2.5g fiber, and 6g protein.

-Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow-

Mike Sherbakov, CSCS, CPT, RYT

Stuffed Southwest Chicken

You know that skinless chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, but grilled chicken night after night gets boring. Here's a new way to dress up your healthy lean protein. The southwest flavors of chiles and lime make this a seriously tasty meal.
Servings: 4

Here's what you need...

• 4 oz light cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 (15oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1 (4oz) can Hatch green chiles, roasted and chopped
• Salt and pepper
• 4 organic, boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• Tajin seasoning (blend of dehydrated lime, ground chile peppers and salt)

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In a medium bowl with an electric mixer on low speed, combine the cream cheese, drained tomatoes, corn and chiles.
3. Slice through the thick part of each chicken breast so that it opens like a book. Double wrap the chicken with plastic wrap and out it with a meat until it's 1/4 inch thick.
4. Season one side of each chicken breast with salt and pepper, then flip it over and spread with 1/4 of the cream cheese filling. Roll each chicken breast up and place it seam side down in a baking dish. Rub a little olive oil over the top of the chicken then season with Tajin and salt and pepper.
5. Cover and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the cover and bake for another 15 minutes.
6. Thinly slice and then serve.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 234 calories, 6g fat, 522mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate, 3g fiber, and 31g protein.

-Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow-

Mike Sherbakov, CSCS, CPT, RYT