Never in a million years did I think so many of you wanted to see what I ate.  I always joke because my food pictures are beyond ugly.  I’m typically whipping something together in 10 minutes or less and putting it on whatever dish happens to be cleaned.  If I do take a picture it’s usually at my desk where I’m doing work while shoveling the food in simultaneously.  Food has just never been something I’m overly passionate about.  Even as someone in the health/wellness industry – I do not pride myself in making beautiful & delicious meals all the time (or ever LOL).

My biggest goals when it comes to making meals is 1.) Can I make it under 10 mins? 2.) Is it balanced? and 3.) Can I clean it up easily?  So needless to say, I don’t have time to take pretty pics or set up a shot for one meal.  With creating workouts, I TOTALLY have the patience for this because I ENJOY working out.  But with meals, not so much.  By the way, this isn’t to say I don’t have a MASSIVE amount of respect for anyone who’s a food blogger or loves making meals because my hat is OFF TO YOU!  I gain so much inspiration from photos like that and if I can make it quickly…..bring on the pretty food pics. 

I’ve officially been meat free for over 5 months now.  CRAZY…..I know.  As a former and massive meat eater, this has definitely been a transition.  I’m pretty happy about it though, and for the most part I feel really good!  I actually just got done watching “What The Health” a few weeks ago.  I wanted to see what all the hype was about.  I have a zillion comments on it, but I’ll save that for another day.  In my opinion though, it wasn’t THAT amazing and also not information that wasn’t already covered in past documentaries.  But for those of you who are new or just joining, it might help to have the back story.  Feel free to check out my

30 days of no sugar and no animal protein BLOG HERE.

All this being said, it inadvertently forced me to get slightly more creative with meals.  The loaded sweet potato has become a STAPLE!  It perfectly satisfies my sweet cravings and instead of reaching for my sugary granola like I used to do – this has taken place of that (and is much more nutritious/sits better in my tummy).

Get ready for the freaking easiest recipe in the world.  No, but I actually even take out the whole cleaning, chopping, soaking, & baking aspect.  THANK GOD FOR THESE NEW “READY TO HEAT” organic sweet taters that are now sold at most major grocery stores.

Cut the potato in half and make checkered cuts on the inside.  You don’t HAVE to do this by any means, but the reason I do it is so everything can melt into the potato. After you have done this, take coconut oil spray and spray the entire potato.  Place back in the microwave for 20 seconds.

Here’s what I used for this specific potato.  Feel free to use your favorite brands of any of these ingredients.  I rotate between using Agave and Pure Maple Syrup (not pictured).  

1. Spray potato w/ coconut oil spray
2. Add any nut butter/peanut butter to each side of the potato and allow it to get soft
3. Once the nut butter starts to melt, use a spoon to spread it into each side of the potato (I usually don’t exceed 2 tablespoons of nut butter)
4. Sprinkle with cinnamon
5. Drizzle agave over the top (I usually don’t exceed 2 tablespoons)
6. Add optional toppings like fresh fruit, coconut shavings, bee pollen, etc.

BOOM!  That’s it!  My favorite part is how damn good it tastes and how genuinely simple it is to make.  I will have this to satisfy sweet cravings or if I’m wanting something other than oatmeal for breakfast.  It’s a great source of carbs & fat.  I do have one little trick to add more protein to this.  I don’t do it every single time, but sometimes if I’m feeling like I want to make it more filling!  I will melt the nut butter in the microwave for less than 15-20 seconds.  I will then stir in 1/2 scoop of protein powder (I use vanilla).  It will make the nut butter super thick, but it still melts fine into the potato.  It gives the nut butter a vanilla taste and pairs well with the sweet potato.  I also know there are a few nut butter brands on the market with added protein, so that’s also an option.

Probably much easier than you guys imagined yes??  Trust me…..it must be easy if I’m making it LOL.  I’m all about finding SUPER QUICK meals I can make because I honestly don’t have time to slave away in the kitchen.  Tag me on social @daniellepascente if you make this.  I’d love to see your beautiful pictures (HAAAAA).  I’m almost positive everyone will make a bomb ass looking loaded sweet tater.

P.S. Fall is upon us (WHAT…..WHOA…..CRAZY)!  I still can’t believe summer is basically over.  If you haven’t figured out your fall workout plan, feel free to come check out my programs page.