I recently learned that one of the best mushroom soups I have ever tasted was actually made with butter despite being told by countless people it was vegan.  I should have realized it the first time I tried it based only the way it coated my spoon but I wanted to believe someone actually took the time to make a vegan soup.

When training many topics of conversation arise and recently I keep getting asked if there is a difference between cacao, cacao nibs and cocoa. I didn't know the exact answer so I spent a few hours scouring the internet so next time I was asked I could give an actual answer. Cacao and cocoa may sound similar, but both of them are unique when it comes to taste, nutrition, and cost.

Are you looking for a quick soup to make for your lunch or for an alternative to a nut based milk while cleansing?  Jamie from LIVing Wellness created this Raw Soup for her clients to have when they need something to tide them over during the cleansing process.

Use this whole food, non-processed, sweetener in your recipes instead of honey, agave, maple syrup or coconut nectar that are all processed.  It adds potassium, magnesium, fiber and a lovely hint of caramel flavoring to your recipes. 

Do you have any "difficult" guests coming for Thanksgiving Dinner?  Those vegans, vegetarians and picky eaters can make cooking dinner even more challenging.  The internet is full of vegan recipes for Thanksgiving but some of them can be rather challenging to make and end up being a complete disappointment.  Since I am one of those guests this year I wanted to give you a few options so you can wow all of your guests...even me! :) 

Need an easy dessert to take to a dinner party?  These truffles are raw, vegan and best of all no one will know unless you tell them! They freeze beautifully so I keep a few dozen in my freezer if I have a sweet tooth or need to throw together a dessert last minute. 

If you are tired of traditional hummus but still need something to dip those fresh veggies in try this recipe.  It is easy to make, has great flavor and full of protein.  Feel free to try different herbs or omit them for a more traditional hummus.  

This is a satisfying salad that is easy to make ahead of time and will give you the protein and nutrients you need after a long run or bike ride this summer!  I also like to make a few of these on Sunday afternoon so I have a few meals already prepared for Monday and Tuesday. 

Are you looking for an energy bar that is lower in calories and added sugar for your kids?  This bar might be a good option for you! I made these bars for one of the Super Teen Sunday sessions and the kids seemed to enjoy them. 

This is one of my staples and you can typically find it in my refrigerator hanging out in a glass jar!  I adapted this recipe from one of my favorite cookbooks, "It's All Good" written by Gwyneth Paltrow.