The holiday season is full of indulgences, treats, and food traditions. With all the deliciousness waiting to be devoured, some recipes can change an ingredient to add a little extra boost. Recently, Ali Fedotowsky-Manno partnered with Orgain to show how classic recipes can be even tastier with a simple swap.
Many people have Orgain plant protein powder in their pantry. A scoop in that morning smoothie is part of the daily routine. While that food is a staple, the protein powder can do more than whirl in a blender.
For example, the Orgain plant protein powder can be a swap in a variety of favorite recipes. Recently, Ali Fedotwosky-Manno shared her recipe for Nut Butter Protein Bites, made with Orgain’s Vanilla Almond Butter Protein Powder. The simple and delicious recipe could become a new holiday tradition in many people’s homes.
Through her partnership with Orgain, Fedotowsky-Manno graciously answered some questions via email. From favorite seasonal food to holiday wishes, she shared some thoughts on what happens in her household.
Cristine Struble: Holiday food often is indulgent. Are there ways to celebrate the classic flavors, but use better for you ingredients? Do you think that most classic recipes can be adapted to people's lifestyle preferences?
Ali Fedotowsky-Manno: There are definitely ways to celebrate the classic flavors but use better for you ingredients! Easy swaps can be made to classic recipes to make them more nutritious. Even just slipping some Orgain Nut Butter Protein Powder into the classic sugar cookie (in place of flour) can give you some extra protein and nutritional benefits. You can also swap coconut oil for butter in many recipes or honey for sugar. Or even sometimes switching out eggs for applesauce.
Struble: How do you find food balance during the holiday season? Are there some tricks to embracing the moment without having any negativity creep into the conversation?
Fedotowsky-Manno: Cocktails and wine are big during the holidays, so I try to have low sugar options like a ranch water or low sugar wine. But I also think the holidays are a time to let things be a little off-balance when it comes to allowing yourself to indulge. I definitely say yes to dessert way more often during this time of year than normal. And I think that’s OK. You just don’t want to make it a habit all year. And it only helps to add the Orgain protein powder to those sweets to give you some extra protein.
Struble: What are some favorite holiday foods and flavors that are part of your family's traditions? Have they evolved over the years?
Fedotowsky-Manno: Some of my fondest holiday memories are baking with my grandma Molly. She was always cooking up something special from apple streusel to her famous German spaetzle. Now with my kiddos, I love spending time in the kitchen and creating both new and traditional recipes with them.
Struble: The holiday season is always busy and can sometimes feel overwhelming. Are there ways to make the season feel less stressful? Do you have any special tips that work for you?
Fedotowsky-Manno: Some of my tips for making the holiday season less stressful are don’t cook everything yourself! I highly recommend pre-ordering some things to make it easier on yourself and making some things the day before. But, my number one tip is, don’t stress! The whole point of the holidays is just being with people you care about. And if anyone’s going to make a fuss over the food or anything else, then they’re not worth your stress anyway!
Struble: During the holiday season, many people have a message of gratitude, celebration, or positivity. What are you grateful for this holiday season?
Fedotowsky-Manno: I’m grateful for my family, my health and just being able to spend time with my loved ones this holiday season.
Sharing gratitude, celebrating togetherness, and enjoying delicious food is a recipe for a memorable holiday season.