Vegetarian Burrito Recipe

Since we came back from Paris, I've been very diligent about regularly visiting the gym. I'm happy I've finally shed the extra pounds I gained during the holiday season. Part of what got me there was switching from white rice to brown rice. The family doesn't seem to mind; in fact, we all prefer it now.

Today, I threw together a very quick meal made with brown rice. I filled burritos with the brown rice, black beans, a little shredded cheese, guacamole and tomato salsa. The meal is complete as the combination of beans and rice together are an excellent meat substitute (great complete protein for a vegetarian diet). And for the carnivores in the house, I added leftover steak from last night's dinner.

To flavor the brown rice without adding too many calories, I tossed it with caramelized onions, mushrooms and a little cream cheese. One tortilla is very filling and is more than enough for one person. I prepared the rice, guacamole and salsa in separate bowls and let everyone assemble their own burrito. It's a quick on-the go meal, so I had more time to hit the gym in the evening!

Vegetarian Tortilla Soup Recipe

I had 5 tortillas left-over from the burritos we made over the weekend that were going stale, so I decided to make a large pot of tortilla soup. I use the tortillas as a thickening agent in the soup, and also as a garnish on top of the dish. To the tortillas I added tomatoes and tomato paste for a little tartness, jalapeños for a little heat, and some kidney beans and soy chorizo for protein.

The spices give the soup an earthy flavor and the Cotija cheese and sour cream that I top each serving with are very soothing for the taste-buds.

Tortilla soup is a really hearty dish that's the perfect cure for the dreary weather we've been having here as of late.

Super Bowl Guacamole and Salsa

I love making guacamole. My version of guacamole is basically a mashed Haas avocado with salsa and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy!