Dill Pickle Salad

This simple and nutritious chicken salad recipe incorporates diced dill pickles and pickle juice for a burst of flavor. Perfect for preparing in advance or for meal prepping lunches, it's a tasty way to utilize leftover cooked chicken.

If you have a fondness for pickles, you're in for a treat! Inspired by the Trader Joe's Dill-icious Chopped Salad Kit, I created a healthier version.

• The salad showcases the tangy and salty essence of dill pickles, both in the garnish and the salad dressing. For an extra twist, consider adding dill-based sauerkraut such as Wildbrine or opt for a wholesome pickle chip brand like Siete Foods.

Interested in more effortless meal prep lunch ideas?

• Dill pickle salad is a speedy dish, taking only 25 minutes from start to finish.

• Rich in gut-friendly probiotics, high in protein, and low in carbs.

• A convenient method to use up leftover batch-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.

• The pickle flavor will leave you craving more!

GUT-FRIENDLY MEAL ADVANTAGES

To enhance your beneficial bacteria levels, this meal is part of a seven-day meal plan that emphasizes foods promoting healthy gut bacteria growth and maintenance.

You can access this meal plan through the Nourished Roots Membership Plan! Here's the direct link for access!

Check out the fun meal prep hacks in the video below!

If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag a photo to #fromtherootsblog on Instagram. We love seeing what you come up with!

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This simple and nutritious chicken salad recipe incorporates diced dill pickles and pickle juice for a burst of flavor. Perfect for preparing in advance or for meal prepping lunches, it's a tasty way to utilize leftover cooked chicken.

SERVINGS: 4 PREP TIME: 15 MIN COOK TIME: 25 MIN

Ingredients

SALAD BASE

• 3 cups shredded chicken (can use rotisserie)

• 4 cups massaged kale

• 1 cup dill pickles, chopped

• 1/2 cup radishes, sliced

• 2-4 hard boiled eggs

• 1-2 cups crushed crackers

• 1 cup sauerkraut (optional)

SALAD DRESSING

• 1 cup plain greek yogurt

• 2-4 Tbsp pickle brine

• 1 Tbsp dill weed (can take from dill container)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp maple syrup

• S+P (to season)

Directions:

• To make dressing: In a small bowl, mix all ingredients until combined. Taste test to see if you need to add more seasoning, acid, or more pickle chunks!

• To assemble the salad, combine all vegetable ingredients from SALAD BASE to a large mixing bowl and toss to combine well. Add in dressing and breadcrumbs and toss and garnish with quartered or halved eggs, serve and enjoy!

*To make hardboiled eggs: Place eggs in a small pot. Cover eggs with water and cover pot with lid. Bring water to boil. Once boiling, turn off and set a timer for 12-14 min. When done, drain and place eggs in an ice cold water bath to stop the cooking process. Peel the shells off once cool to touch.

Notes: I use this brand crackers so that this recipe is gluten and grain free!

Broccoli Salad

The ultimate dairy and gluten-free broccoli salad for any occasion. Your guests will never suspect it's actually good for them!

BROCCOLI SALAD RECIPE HIGHLIGHTS

• Incredibly simple to prepare!

• The dairy-free dressing will quickly become your preferred choice for any dish. It's naturally sweetened and provides a good balance of fat and protein.

• Perfect for preparing in advance, making it suitable for various occasions such as barbecues, potlucks, or weekday lunches.

• Ideal for those who dislike red onions! *However, if you're a fan like me, feel free to include ⅓ cup of red onion in the salad!

• I've been making this for years, and it's always a big hit! #noleftovers

TIME SAVING TIPS BEFORE AN EVENT

• Buy fresh pre-cut broccoli or prepare and wash your broccoli the day before the event.

• Cook bacon for breakfast, setting aside some for breakfast and chopping the rest for the broccoli salad.

• Soak cashews overnight to make the dressing the next day, or boil them for 10 minutes.

• Remember to chill the recipe in the fridge. This allows the broccoli to absorb the dressing, enhancing the flavor of the salad!

Looking for more nutritious and enjoyable crowd-pleasing recipe ideas? Explore: Apple Pecan and Bacon Salad with Caramelized Shallot Vinaigrette Dressing, Hasselback Sweet Potatoes, Prosciutto Wrapped Figs, Roasted Beet Hummus.

If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag a photo to #fromtherootsblog on Instagram. We love seeing what you come up with!

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The ultimate dairy and gluten-free broccoli salad for any occasion. Your guests will never suspect it's actually good for them!

Servings: 6 Prep: 15 MIN Cook time: 0 MIN

Ingredients

For the salad

• 2 large broccoli crowns (florets only), finely chopped

• ½ cup bacon, chopped

• 1 ½ cups seedless red grapes, quartered

• ⅓ cup dried cranberries or dried cherries

• ⅓ cup roasted or raw sunflower seeds

• 2 Tbsp lemon juice

• S+P to season

For the dressing

• 1 cup raw cashews, soaked

• ¼ cup water

• 2-4 Tbsp pure maple syrup

• 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar

• ½ tsp minced garlic

• 1 tsp sea salt

• ½ tsp ground black pepper

Instructions

1. For the dressing: Place cashews in a bowl and cover cashews with water and soak for 2 hours or overnight. (if you are short on time, soak them in boiling water for 10 min).

2. Drain cashews and transfer to blender with the rest of the dressing ingredients. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. If dressing is too thick, add 1 Tbsp increments of water until desired creaminess. *2-4 Tbsp syrup is for desired sweetness.

3. For the salad, Place broccoli, grapes, sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, bacon bits and lemon juice in a large mixing bowl. Add dressing and toss thoroughly to coat. Season with salt and pepper and lemon juice to taste. Serve chilled.

Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls

Craving a sweet treat that won't sabotage your healthy lifestyle? Try these Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls – they're a hit with gym goers and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

HERE’S WHY WE LOVE THEM:

• An adequate amount of protein per serving

• No baking required, easy to prepare

• Minimal ingredients needed

• A healthy Valentine's Day snack or dessert

• Ideal as a pre/post workout snack

WHAT MAKES THEM SO PROTEIN-PACKED?

This recipe uses nut butter and a clean protein powder source as its primary protein sources. We recommend using the vanilla flavor from Equip Foods – it provides the perfect balance of sweetness and nutrition. If you're interested in trying this protein powder, use the code ROOTS at checkout to receive 15% off. Don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more exclusive promo codes from this brand!

MORE SNACK BALL RECIPES

snickerdoodle protein balls

dark chocolate chip protein bites

lemon and coconut energy balls

chai latte donut holes

fig, vanilla & orange energy balls

If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag a photo to #fromtherootsblog on Instagram. We love seeing what you come up with!

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Craving a sweet treat that won't sabotage your healthy lifestyle? Try these Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls – they're a hit with gym goers and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Servings: 36-38 balls Prep: 5 MIN Cook time: 0 MIN

Ingredients

• 3 cups gluten-free oats (or oat flour)

• 1 cup vanilla protein powder

• 2 Tbsp ground cinnamon

• ½ tsp pink Himalayan sea salt

• 1 cup pure maple syrup

• 1 ½ cup nut butter

• ½ cup coconut oil (half melted)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ - ½ cup white chocolate chips

• 1/4-1/2 cup freeze dried strawberries

Instructions

1. In a food processor, blend oats until flour consistency and then add the rest of the ingredients to process minus the chocolate chips. Fold in the white chocolate chips and use a 1 tbsp measuring spoon or cookie scooper to turn into balls!

Notes

1. Although it's not necessary, melting the coconut oil can improve the dough's texture and the distribution of the white chocolate chips throughout the balls, creating a delightful cheesecake flavor.

2. Use code: ROOTS for 15% off our preferred clean protein powder source!

Tart Cherry Sleepy Time Mocktail

Tart Cherry Sleepy Time Mocktail: A Nightly Drink for Restful Sleep and Gut Health

Are you looking for a delicious and healthy drink that can help you get a good night's sleep? Introducing the Tart Cherry Sleepy Time Mocktail - the perfect nightcap for anyone looking to improve their sleeping habits and gut health!

As a nutritionist and personal trainer, I understand the importance of sleep, and I have been drinking this mocktail for the past 9 months. It has become my go-to recipe, and it has even gone viral on TikTok!

What Makes the Sleepy Girl Mocktail?

The recipe only requires two key ingredients: pure tart cherry juice or concentrate and magnesium powder. Here's why they are essential for a good night's sleep:

1. Pure Tart Cherry Juice - Tart cherries contain a high concentration of melatonin, a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and induces drowsiness at night. They are also rich in the amino acid tryptophan, which helps the body produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation.

2. Magnesium - Magnesium glycinate is a vital mineral that regulates melatonin and cortisol production, promoting muscle relaxation and reducing anxiety.

This power couple is linked to positive sleep results, making this mocktail perfect for your nighttime routine.

Mocktail Beneficial Add-Ins

• Citrus - Adding fresh citrus juice like lemon or lime provides vitamin C, which supports your adrenals and helps your body recover from stress-related damage.

• Prebiotic Soda or Mineral Water - Top off your mocktail with prebiotic soda or mineral-enriched bubbly water. Not only does it taste great, but it also supports beneficial gut bacteria. However, be aware that prebiotics may trigger digestive discomfort like gas and bloating.

  • Favorite sources: Poppi cherry lime flavor and lime flavored Topo Chico mineral water

• Sea Salt - Add a pinch of sea salt to support your adrenal glands and promote optimal hydration. Sea salt is also rich in magnesium, which helps promote restful, deep sleep.

Now that you have the nutritional background on this viral TikTok drink, start making your own and enjoy a restful sleep and improved gut health! Check out the Nourished Roots membership for more tips on supporting optimal sleep.

MORE HEALTHY MOCKTAIL + BEVERAGES

Adrenal Cocktail

Harmony Hot Chocolate

Fire Cider Bone Broth

Moon Milk

If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag a photo to #fromtherootsblog on Instagram. We love seeing what you come up with!

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Tart Cherry Sleepy Time Mocktail: A Nightly Drink for Restful Sleep and Gut Health

Servings: 1 Prep: 5 MIN Cook time: 0 MIN

Ingredients

• ¼ cup tart cherry juice or 2 Tbsp tart cherry juice concentrate

• 1 scoop or serving magnesium powder

• Top with prebiotic soda or mineral sparkling water

• pinch of sea salt

• Ice

Directions

1. Start by pouring cherry juice or concentrate into a tall glass. Mix in magnesium powder and add ice. Top it off with soda or mineral water, and stir until all the ingredients are well combined. For an extra zing, squeeze in lime juice and add a pinch of sea salt. Finally, sit back, relax, and enjoy the rest of your night!

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SHOP OUR FAVORITE INGREDIENTS FOR THIS RECIPE!

Gluten Free Walking Tacos

Healthy Walking Tacos: A Quick, Fun, and Customizable Meal

Have you ever tried a walking taco? It's the perfect meal for those who are short on time, love customization, and want to keep it healthy. This meal is perfect for quick lunches, lazy family dinners, or even game night!

When I was a child, my family would make tacos in individual-sized chip bags like Fritos or Doritos. This allowed us to choose our own toppings, while also eating right out of the bag, making it mess-free for our parents. It was a delightful experience!

HOW TO MAKE YOUR WALKING TACO

Assembling your walking taco is easy and fun! Just gather all your favorite taco toppings and go from there. You can even choose healthy and gluten-free options!

grass-fed ground meat

shredded lettuce

fresh organic salsa

lactose free or organic raw shredded cheese

pickled onions (with addition of jalapeños) pg. 54 in cookbook

avocado lime crema pg. 45 in cookbook

Gluten-free chips that are made in premium avocado or coconut oil like Jackson’s chips.

Want more healthy and fun Mexican inspired recipes? Check out: Mexican eggs Benedict, Paleo Crunchwrap Supreme, and Mexican Harvest Turkey Chili.

If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag a photo to #fromtherootsblog on Instagram. We love seeing what you come up with!

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Servings: 4 Prep: 10 MIN Cook time: 10 MIN

Ingredients

To make taco meat:

• 1 lb grassfed ground meat (beef, chicken, turkey)

• 1 packet of siete foods taco seasoning

• ⅓ cup water

Toppings:

• individual chip bags (favorites: Jackson’s Chips, Siete Foods, Barnana Plaintain chips)

• shredded lettuce

• diced tomatoes or salsa

• avocado

• lime wedges

• cilantro

• cheese or queso

• sour cream or greek yogurt

• pickled onions

• avocado lime crema

Instructions:

1. To a skillet, add 1 Tbsp avocado oil over medium high heat. Add your ground meat to the skillet and break apart as it cooks. Mix in the seasonings and water once browned. Transfer the meat into a bowl and set aside until ready to assemble walking tacos.

2. Prepare the rest of the toppings of your choice!

3. When ready to assemble, take individual sized chip bags and roll down the tops. (You can also add chips to a bowl if you don’t have chip bags!) Fill the bags or bowl with taco meat and the rest of your desired toppings. Enjoy!