Do you want to cook up an amazing Valentine’s Day dinner but worried that it might throw you off track of your health and weight loss goals? I totally understand the “struggle” but the thing is you can eat the foods you love and lose weight! It’s true! There is a strategy we use here and lots of clients to prove it but that conversation is for another day. Today we are talking delicious, romantic or (nonromantic is you’d prefer, ha!) dinner recipes that you can enjoy guilt-free. They contain the perfect combo of protein, healthy fat and fiber. The best part, you can swap out any of the proteins for another, if you don’t like, for example if you don’t eat shrimp use chicken, not a fan of mushrooms? Swap it them out and use broccoli instead. Regardless these recipes are all about bringing big flavor and love to the table while keeping your health in check.

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

Nothing says romance like a homemade pasta meal. Lighten it up by using brown rice or chick pea pasta, cashews for a creamy like richness, and lots of garlic for flavor. Add in shrimp for a protein boost and a sprinkle some cheese on top. Viola!

Ingredients

• 1 cup Cashews (raw, soaked for at least six hours, rinsed)
• 1 1/4 cups Water
• 6 ozs Brown Rice Fettuccine (dry)
• 1 lb Shrimp (large, peeled and deveined)
• Sea Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)
• 2 tbsps Extra Virgin Olive Oil (divided)
• 1/3 cup Shallot (finely chopped)
• 2 Garlic (cloves, minced)
• 3 tbsps Lemon Juice
• 3 tbsps Butter
• 1/2 cup Parmigiano Reggiano (finely grated)

Directions

1. In a blender combine the soaked cashews and water. Blend until completely smooth. Set aside.
2. Cook the fettuccine al dente according to package directions. Reserve some of the cooking water and set aside.
3. Meanwhile, place the shrimp on a plate lined with paper towel and pat dry. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Warm 1/4 of the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once warmed, add the shrimp and cook for two to three minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the remaining oil and the shallot. Cook, stirring often, until softened and just starting to turn golden brown, about two minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
6. Add the lemon juice to deglaze the pan. Add the butter and stir until melted. Add the cashew cream and simmer for one minute, until bubbling. Remove from the heat and stir in the parmesan cheese until smooth.
7. Add the fettuccine to the skillet and toss to combine. Fold in the shrimp. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to thin. Divide onto plates and season with salt and pepper. Enjoy!

Why You’ll Love It: It’s creamy and luxurious without the heavy feeling.
Pro Tip: Use spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash for an even lighter dish.

One-Pan Herbed Gnocchi and Mushrooms

Imagine tender gnocchi and earthy mushrooms, all cooked in one pan for minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Use potato gnocchi to keep things tasty and add a variety of mushrooms and herbs for a rich, shitake-packed dish.

Ingredients

• 16 ozs Potato Gnocchi
• 8 Cremini Mushrooms (quartered and/or halved if small)
• 2 cups Shiitake Mushrooms (stem removed, sliced in half)
• 3/4 cup Shallot (thinly sliced)
• 1/3 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Sea Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 tsp Chili Flakes
• 1/2 cup Fresh Sage
• 1/2 Lemon (juiced, zested)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425ºF (220ºC).
2. Add the gnocchi, mushrooms, and shallot to a large baking sheet. Add the oil, salt, pepper, and chili flakes, and toss to coat the gnocchi. Spread it out in an even layer, using another baking sheet if needed.
3. Scatter the sage leaves on top. Transfer to the oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes, until the mushrooms are browned and the gnocchi is crispy.
4. Top with lemon juice and zest. Divide evenly between plates and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love It: It’s comforting, earthy, and perfect for a cozy Valentines night.
Pro Tip: A tad of fresh herbs can really elevate the whole dish.

Pan-Seared Steak

Choose a lean cut of steak for this dish and give it a good sear for that irresistible crust. Serve it with a side of steamed green beans, broccoli or a light and lemony arugula and parm salad for a balanced, indulgent meal.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsps Parsley (chopped)
• 1 tsp Mint Leaves (chopped)
• 2 Garlic (cloves, minced)
• 1 1/2 tsps Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 1/2 tsps Lemon Juice
• 8 ozs Ribeye Steak, Boneless (room temperature)
• 2 Eggs
• Sea Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)

Directions

1. In a small bowl combine the parsley, mint, garlic, oil, and lemon juice. Set it aside.
2. Pat the steak very dry with paper towel. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat until hot. Place the steak in the middle of the skillet and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping and turning every two to three minutes, until a dark crust has formed on both sides and the steak is cooked to your liking. Remove and let rest for about 10 minutes.
4. In the same skillet, crack the eggs, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the whites are set and the yolk is cooked to your liking. Take the skillet off the heat.
5. Spoon the parsley sauce over the steak and eggs. Serve and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love It: It’s a classic and who doen’t love a good steak (Sorry, not sorry Vegans)
Pro Tip: Let the steak rest before slicing to ensure it’s juicy and tender.

Keeping It Healthy:

• Mindful Portions: It’s all about enjoying the night, not overstuffing. Serve modest portions to keep things light and satisfying.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best taste and health benefits. Think whole grains, lean proteins, and lots of veggies.
• Slow Down and Enjoy: This meal is as much about the experience as the food. Take your time, enjoy each bite, and cherish the company.

With these recipes, you’re all set for a romantic and healthy Valentine’s dinner. They’re proof that you can have your steak (or pasta!) and eat it too, even when you’re keeping an eye on health and wellness. So light those candles, set the table, and get ready for a night of delicious romance.

Happy Valentine’s Day! May it be filled with love, laughter, and delectable food. ❤️

If you need more support for your goals and you know you need accountability or expert guidance, check out the different ways we can help.

1. 1:1 High Touch, VIP Coaching. Check out the details here.
2. Simple Metabolic Reset Small Grp. Find info here.
3. Book a call to find the best fit for you!

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