HEALTH + WELLNESS
HEALTH + WELLNESS
YOUR LOCAL RACE ROUNDUP
FITNESS
DISCOVER THE POWER OF COMMUNITY WITH YOGASIX
SUSTAINABLE FITNESS WITH SARAH FERGUSON
FOOD + BEVERAGE
SMART SWEETS: BREKFAST BARS

JANUARY 2025













HEALTH + WELLNESS
YOUR LOCAL RACE ROUNDUP
FITNESS
DISCOVER THE POWER OF COMMUNITY WITH YOGASIX
SUSTAINABLE FITNESS WITH SARAH FERGUSON
FOOD + BEVERAGE
SMART SWEETS: BREKFAST BARS
JANUARY 2025
SCHEDULE YOUR COMPLIMENTARY SMILE DESIGN CONSULTATION
www.mysmileartist.com
210.496.9967
1130 East Sonterra Blvd. Suite 110 San Antonio, TX 78258
@mysmileartist @mohamedimamdds
At My Smile Artist, we are committed to providing a comfortable, high-end experience for every patient. Our office delivers exceptional care in a dentist-driven, patientcentered environment. Led by Dr. Imam, an expert in comprehensive and cosmetic dentistry, our team caters to patients seeking both routine care and full-mouth rehabilitations. Whether you're looking for a complete transformation or routine dental care, we cater to patients who demand the best. We invite you to discover a dental experience that prioritizes comfort, aesthetics, and comprehensive solutions.
Comprehensive Dentistry
Cosmetic Dentistry
Dental Implants
Sedation for a Comfortable Experience
Invisalign
LIFESTYLE LETTER
Welcome to our January Health & Wellness issue! As we kick off a brand-new year, it’s the perfect time to focus on self-care, rejuvenation, and setting intentions for a healthy, balanced life. This issue is packed with expert tips, inspiring stories, and practical advice to help you make 2025 your healthiest year yet.
Whether you’re looking to boost your fitness routine, explore new wellness trends, or cultivate mindfulness in your daily life, we’ve got something for everyone. Our goal is to inspire you to take small, meaningful steps toward lasting well-being—body, mind, and spirit.
Thank you for choosing City Lifestyle as your guide to a vibrant, healthier you. Let’s make this year shine!
With warmth and wellness,
JESSIE MANGUM, EDITOR @STONEOAKCITYLIFESTYLE
January 2025
PUBLISHER
Sarah Mottu | sarah.mottu@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Jonathan Mottu | jonathan.mottu@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Jessie Mangum | jessie.mangum@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Jessie Mangum
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Laura Squire
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
WHERE
1: iRun Texas' running group prepares for a group run. Join for your upcoming run training. 2: LaTEAda is featured on San Antonio Living speaking about their variety of tea options. 3: Diva Dance group shows off their skills while performing at a Spurs game. 4: NAWBO gathers a group of members to hit the polls and vote! 5: Guest enjoy the grand opening of FORE! Golf Swing Lounge. 6: Casino Night fundraiser hosted by Young Life San Antonio North. 7: Austyn with Austyntatious Kitchen was featured on Great Day SA for her beautiful Thanksgiving spreads
Want to be seen in the magazine?
For years, I battled with insecurities about my stomach area, feeling trapped in a cycle of frustration and self-doubt. The thought of surgery terrified me, and the prospect of long recovery times was daunting. I wanted a solution that promised lasting results without the worry. That’s when I discovered Body Sculpting at The Fountain of Youth Spa, and it has been nothing short of transformative.
I decided on the Slim and Sculpt Stomach Shaper Package, and the results have been astonishing. My stomach is now beautifully lifted and toned, and I finally have my figure back. The joy of slipping into a two-piece swimsuit or a skin-tight dress with newfound confidence is indescribable. It feels like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders, and I am embracing life with open arms.
If you’re searching for a way to rediscover and celebrate your body, I cannot recommend The Fountain of Youth Spa enough. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
- Stephanie T.
AIM Educate Private Clinic is a specialized practice dedicated to providing comprehensive evaluations for individuals with potential neurodiversity or disabilities. Their team of expert clinicians takes a compassionate, individualized approach to identify and assess conditions such as ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, and more. Through these evaluations, AIM Educate empowers families and individuals by providing valuable insights, resources, and pathways for support.
AIM Educate is committed to fostering understanding and promoting inclusivity within the community.
At My Smile Artist, artistry, stateof-the-art technology, and unparalleled expertise come together to transform smiles and boost confidence. Led by Dr. Imam, renowned for advanced training and a commitment to excellence, the practice offers comprehensive cosmetic and restorative treatments, ranging from veneers to full mouth rehabilitations. With options for IV Sedation, Nitrous Sedation, and oral sedation, every patient experience is designed to be comfortable and transformative, redefining oral health and well-being to the highest standard.
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XIA Wellness & Aesthetics is now offering personalized medical weight loss services. With a holistic approach tailored to each individual’s unique needs, the clinic helps clients achieve and maintain a healthy weight. The program features clinically proven options, including Semaglutide and Tirzepatide, to support effective weight loss and metabolic health. Additionally, Vitamin MIC B12 injections are provided to boost energy, metabolism, and overall wellness. For a limited time, new clients can receive $100 off their first month of weight loss services.
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DEAR STONE OAK CITY LIFESTYLE READERS,
As we embark on a new year, I'd like to extend warm wishes for a prosperous and joyous 2025.
If I can serve you and your family in 2025, I'd be honored to show you the dedication, expertise, and insider market knowledge I can provide throughout your real estate journey.
LAUREN FIGUEROA LAMPEL
GRI, REALTOR®
Jason Glast Group
C 210.275.1827
lfigueroa @ phyllisbrowning com @ laurenlampelrealestate
J ason g last . com
YogaSix Stone Oak, owned and operated by Ted and Angela Glutz, is more than just a yoga studio—it's a sanctuary that embodies strength, resilience, and mindfulness. After each serving over two decades in the U.S. Army, the Glutzes transitioned into the wellness industry, driven by their belief that the discipline, focus, and mindfulness they honed in the military could benefit others in their own health and fitness journeys.
Rooted in a philosophy that goes beyond physical fitness, YogaSix Stone Oak is designed to cultivate a mind-body connection, focusing on wellness, community, and personal growth. Group classes play a significant role in fostering a sense of community, motivation, and accountability. The energy of a group setting creates an environment of shared purpose, where individuals can support one another, build relationships, and stay motivated. Instructors encourage participants to focus on their own progress, while also being mindful of the group’s collective energy.
The structure of group classes offers a unique opportunity for consistency. Knowing that a class is scheduled provides members with a sense of routine and accountability. The group dynamic can be a powerful motivator—when others show up, it reinforces the importance of prioritizing selfcare. Additionally, members often stay connected outside of class through social media or text groups, creating a sense of community that extends beyond the studio walls.
The support within group yoga classes also helps students overcome common challenges such as self-doubt or lack of motivation. The non-judgmental, inclusive environment encourages individuals to show up as they are, and instructors make it clear that progress is personal and ongoing. This
support system helps many members stick with their practice over time, building not just physical strength, but emotional resilience as well.
The community aspect of YogaSix is one of its most powerful features. Members often form lasting friendships, and the sense of belonging that comes from being part of a supportive group can be life-changing. By participating in events such as member appreciation days or community outreach initiatives, students develop deeper connections with one another, fostering an environment of mutual respect and encouragement.
YogaSix Stone Oak’s community-centric philosophy helps students break through the barriers that can sometimes make it hard to stay consistent with their practice. For instance, a student who was diagnosed with cancer found strength and emotional healing through the support of her yoga community. She used yoga to cope with the physical and emotional challenges of her treatment and went on to become a yoga teacher, inspired by the resilience and healing power of the practice.
Other students have shared stories of overcoming depression, anxiety, and trauma through the support they received in the group classes. One student, who struggled with depression for years, found that yoga not only helped her reconnect with her body but also empowered her to rediscover a sense of self-worth. These personal transformations show how yoga, especially in a group setting, can offer profound mental and emotional healing.
“The energy of a group setting creates an environment of shared purpose, where individuals can support one another, build relationships, and stay motivated.”
“The community aspect of YogaSix is one of its most powerful features. Members often form long lasting friendships, and the sense of belonging that comes from being part of a supportive group can be life-changing”
Students who practice regularly in a group environment often find themselves developing stronger habits of self-care and mindfulness. Yoga becomes a tool not just for physical fitness but for emotional well-being, helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience.
The benefits of group yoga classes extend far beyond the studio walls. Many students report feeling more grounded, balanced, and centered in their daily lives, equipped with the mindfulness tools they need to manage stress, anxiety, and life’s uncertainties. Relationships with family, friends, and colleagues often improve as students integrate mindfulness into their interactions. The sense of community that begins in class often carries over into their personal lives, creating a ripple effect of positivity.
At YogaSix Stone Oak, the focus is on creating a space where every individual can grow—physically, mentally, and emotionally. The studio’s commitment to inclusivity, mindfulness, and community empowers students to take their yoga practice beyond the mat and into their daily lives. Through group classes, members not only improve their fitness but build connections, resilience, and a deeper sense of well-being. For anyone seeking to begin their yoga journey, or deepen their existing practice, YogaSix Stone Oak offers a supportive, welcoming environment to help them thrive.
ARTICLE BY JESSIE MANGUM
Visit iRunTexas, your local running shop for a professional fitting for your next pair of walking or running shoes. Join iRunTexas for one of their weekly social runs or train with for your upcoming half or full marathon. Allow them to be your training partner from start to finish.
1. Bigfoot Classic - January 4th - McAllister Park 2. River Road Run Half - January 4th - Comfort Park, Comfort, TX 3. Stride for Sight 5K - January 11th - Helton Nature Park, Floresville, TX 4. MLK 5K - January 19th - MLK Park 5. South Texas Tower Climb and Run - January 25th - Tower of the Americas 6. Time Travel Half - January 25th - O.P. Schnabel Park 7. Winter Dragon Race - January 25th - Pearsall Park 8. Das Dreizehn.Eins - January 26th - Prince Solms Park, New Braunfels, TX 9. La Llorona 10K Trail Run - January 26th - McAllister Park
Creating a Sustainable Fitness Routine
ARTICLE BY JESSIE MANGUM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURA SQUIRE
We spoke with Sarah Ferguson, fitness and nutrition coach, to explore her approach to fitness, how she tailors programs for different lifestyles, and why she believes consistency, not intensity, is key to long-term success. As the founder of Sarah Ferguson Fit, Sarah is committed to helping clients achieve lasting results through sustainable routines that prioritize progress over perfection, rather than chasing fleeting fitness trends.
“I believe the best way to achieve consistency is through routines that are flexible and realistic.”
CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR APPROACH TO FITNESS TRAINING AND HOW YOU HELP CLIENTS BUILD ROUTINES THAT ARE EFFECTIVE AND SUSTAINABLE LONG TERM?
My approach is centered on creating routines that integrate seamlessly into a client’s daily life. I work with each client to establish practical strategies that allow them to prioritize fitness and nutrition without overwhelming their schedule. Instead of intense, unsustainable regimens, we focus on progressive strength training and balanced nutrition plans that they can maintain even on their busiest days. My goal is to equip clients with habits and routines that feel manageable long-term, empowering them to keep up with their fitness journey regardless of life’s demands, and after the coaching experience.
WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE IS THE MOST IMPORTANT FACTOR IN CREATING A
FITNESS ROUTINE THAT PEOPLE CAN STICK TO?
Consistency. I believe the best way to achieve it is through routines that are flexible and realistic. For busy moms, this means finding ways to make fitness a seamless part of everyday life, rather than an added stress. Building routines that adapt to changing schedules and personal needs are essential for sustainability.
WHAT ROLE DO YOU THINK GOAL SETTING PLAYS IN DEVELOPING A SUSTAINABLE ROUTINE?
Goal setting is critical—it gives clients a sense of purpose and keeps them motivated. Every new plan starts with a specific goal or goals. I work with clients to set realistic, achievable goals, starting with smaller milestones that build confidence and momentum. We revisit and adjust these goals regularly to ensure they’re challenging yet attainable, and aligned with each client’s evolving needs.
WHAT STRATEGIES DO YOU USE TO HELP CLIENTS STAY CONSISTENT WITH THEIR FITNESS ROUTINE, ESPECIALLY WHEN MOTIVATION DECLINES?
Accountability is central to consistency. I offer regular check-ins and coaching calls to help clients stay on track and adjust when needed. I also encourage them to celebrate small wins along the way, which reinforces progress and keeps motivation high. My client app allows them to track their daily habits and overall progress. This is a key tool in helping keep clients focused and able to reflect on their progress.
HOW DO YOU ADDRESS COMMON BARRIERS THAT PEOPLE FACE WHEN TRYING TO MAINTAIN A REGULAR WORKOUT SCHEDULE?
For clients with limited time (which is pretty much everyone!), I create efficient, manageable workouts that can be completed in short sessions. For burnout, I recommend periodic rest and active recovery to ensure they’re listening to their body. Together, we identify what’s most challenging and work on strategies, like scheduling workouts at optimal times or setting up a support system, to overcome these obstacles.
HOW DO YOU HELP CLIENTS BALANCE THEIR FITNESS GOALS WITH OTHER COMMITMENTS, LIKE WORK, FAMILY, AND SOCIAL LIFE?
We work together to create a routine that doesn’t disrupt their daily responsibilities. This might mean designing shorter, more flexible workouts or offering meal-prepping tips to simplify nutrition. My coaching emphasizes finding time-efficient solutions that align with their personal life, so they feel supported in achieving their goals without sacrificing other priorities. My motto is if HAS to work with your daily life, or it WON’T work at all.
HOW DO YOU HELP CLIENTS ADAPT THEIR ROUTINES TO MAINTAIN CONSISTENCY DURING THOSE TIMES OF LIFE CHANGES?
We create contingency plans for those inevitable shifts. Whether it’s a shorter workout or a temporary focus on mobility and recovery, I help clients adjust so they don’t lose their progress. I emphasize that fitness is a journey with ups and downs, and adapting is a key part of sustainability.
“My goal is to equip clients with habits and routines that feel manageable long-term, empowering them to keep up with their fitness journey regardless of life’s demands, and after the coaching experience.”
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE JUST STARTING THEIR FITNESS JOURNEY WHO’S LOOKING TO BUILD A SUSTAINABLE ROUTINE FROM THE START?
Start small, be consistent, and prioritize balance. Focus on building a foundation of strength and gradually add in new elements as you become more comfortable. Don’t rush or compare yourself to others. Sustainable progress is steady and intentional, and the most important thing is to create a routine that feels manageable and enjoyable. Give yourself grace on the hard days and keep in mind that not everyday will be transformative, what’s important is that you gave it your best effort.
The beginning of the year is packed with inspiration and motivation to get back on track after a sweet-filled holiday season. It can feel extreme, and it also can be depleting to cut oneself off from everything indulgent after weeks of eating favorite sweet and savory recipes. For sugar lovers who believe going cold-turkey feels intimidating or overwhelming, nutrition-packed desserts are a great way to stick to healthy food goals without the guilt.
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
This recipe is a classic favorite. If you cut the bars into 16 pieces, they are around 270 calories each. They are very filling, packed with healthy goodies and taste, oh so delicious. If you can’t finish them yourself (it makes a lot!), bring samples along to your next workout class to share the love. Your accountability group will be asking you for the recipe! These come in handy for a quick breakfast on-the-go or an afternoon snack. You’ll want to taste these out of the oven once they cool a bit... simply scrumptious.
Combine:
• 1 cup wheat flour
• 2 cups cooked quinoa, cooled
• 2 cups oats
• 2/3 cup of your choice of chopped nuts
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2/3 cup raisins
• Optional: chocolate chips as desired
• Optional: add additional seeds or nuts on hand such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc.
Notes: Boil quinoa at a 2:1 water to rice ratio. For estimating, 1/3 cup of uncooked quinoa yields 1 cup cooked quinoa.
Add this mixture slowly to combine:
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup peanut butter, almond butter or sunflower butter
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 banana
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes, or until when the edges get golden brown. Bake in a 9x13-inch glass dish. After they cool, slice and enjoy. Keep them covered to maintain freshness.
Danger ahead: this snack is amazing. It’s the easiest of the bunch and also satisfies a sweet tooth craving. This can be whipped together in just 5 minutes and makes just a small amount. Feel free to take creative liberty here with your amounts, but if you make it to this recipe, they are around 90 calories per bite.
1. Cut a banana into 8-10 small slices, around 1/2 inch each.
2. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of peanut butter (or your choice of nut butter) on each banana slice.
3. Drizzle a small amount of melted chocolate chips or caramel over each bite.
4. Freeze for 15-20 minutes and enjoy!
Pro tip: A dash of sea salt flakes on top of these can be *chef’s kiss.*
These are great to keep on hand in the freezer all weeklong. Once they set, add them to a closed container to keep the bananas from browning.
Late night snack cravings are real! When finding yourself rooting through the cabinets for a sweet fix, these protein cookie dough bites are a great way to curb temptation. This recipe yields around 20 small bites, which can be cut into small squares or rolled into dough balls. Each bite is around 105 calories. If you find the dough is a little too dry, add a dash of milk as needed.
Ingredients
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup peanut butter (or alternate nut or sunflower butter)
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• Chocolate chips as desired
Pro tip: Use mini chocolate chips and for a dash of savory add sea salt flakes on top. Once combined, store the bites in the refrigerator in a covered container to keep them moist.
Chiropractic care offers far more than just relief from back pain. By focusing on spinal alignment, chiropractic adjustments aim to enhance the body’s innate ability to heal itself, ensuring that the nervous system functions at its optimal level. Dr. Demi Moreno, from MaxChiropractic in Castle Hills, explains how chiropractic care helps restore balance to the body and improve overall health.
The spine serves as the body’s protection of the nervous system, the control center for all bodily functions. When the spine misaligns, it can irritate the nerves, leading to pain and affecting the proper functioning of vital organs. “Spinal misalignments can create interference in the nervous system, reducing its ability to communicate effectively with the body,” says Dr. Moreno. Chiropractic care aims to correct these misalignments, promoting better communication between the nervous system and the body to restore balance and health. By correcting these misalignments through spinal adjustments, chiropractic care supports the body’s ability to function without relying on medications or invasive procedures. “Our approach focuses on natural healing, encouraging the body to self-regulate and heal itself,” Dr. Moreno explains.
Chiropractic care goes beyond relieving pain. It can help improve autonomic functions, including stress response, digestion, and sleep regulation. These systems are controlled by neural pathways that can be enhanced through
chiropractic adjustments, leading to better physiological balance. “When nerve function improves, it supports your body’s ability to adapt to stress, digest food more efficiently, and sleep soundly,” says Dr. Moreno.
Common signs of chiropractic needs include chronic pain or stiffness in the neck, back, or joints, frequent headaches, poor posture, digestive issues, sleep disturbances, or fatigue. Regular chiropractic adjustments not only relieve pain but can also prevent future health complications by identifying and addressing misalignments before they cause more serious problems. Dr. Moreno notes, “Chiropractic care helps you prepare your body to adapt to the environment and promotes overall health by reducing the risk of musculoskeletal issues, nervous system dysfunction, and lifestyle-related conditions.”
8 miles during a trip to Las Vegas, something she thought impossible. “She now enjoys life more fully and is on the path to a fulfilling future,” Dr. Moreno proudly states.
Another is Penny, an 8-month-old baby who was severely constipated. Her mother decided to seek chiropractic care as an alternative to medication. After only two adjustments, Penny’s digestive system improved significantly, and she was able to enjoy tummy time without discomfort. “She no longer needed medication and had regular bowel movements every day,” Dr. Moreno shares.
ments can create interference in the nervous system, reducing its ability to communicate effectively with the body.
At MaxChiropractic, Dr. Moreno emphasizes what she calls the “5 Essentials of Health”: Chiropractic, Nutrition, Mindset, Exercise, and Minimizing Toxins. These help patients understand their health from a holistic perspective, focusing on restoring the body’s natural power and performance. “We believe in teaching our patients about how to improve their health naturally, without relying on medications or invasive treatments,” Dr. Moreno shares.
Dr. Moreno shared a few inspiring patient testimonials that highlight the benefits of chiropractic care. First, Juanita, a nurse who had suffered from sciatic pain for years. After one month of chiropractic treatment, she was able to walk over
Dr. Moreno emphasizes that chiropractic care is not just for back pain; it can support a wide range of health issues, from improving immune function to managing stress and digestion. MaxChiropractic also provides specialized equipment for spinal corrective exercises, which patients can use at home to strengthen the muscles around their spine, helping maintain proper alignment and achieve faster results.
As more people embrace preventative care, Dr. Moreno believes chiropractic care will play an increasingly vital role in maintaining overall health. Chiropractic care’s focus on natural healing, spinal alignment, and optimizing nervous system function offers a pathway to improved overall health and wellness. Whether addressing pain, improving sleep, or boosting immune function, chiropractic care provides a holistic approach to achieving lasting balance in the body.
JANUARY 2025
JANUARY 11TH
Alamodome | 12:00 PM
Since 1978, the San Antonio Sports All-Star Football Game has highlighted the region’s top high school football talent, aiming to spotlight local players and increase their chances for college scholarships. Players are nominated by their high school coaches and selected by a committee of broadcasters, journalists, and former coaches. Don’t miss this exciting game featuring the future of football!
JANUARY 17TH - 19TH
San Antonio Riverwalk | 9:00 AM
Discover the best of San Antonio by supporting local artisans at the River Walk Artisan Show! Stroll along the downtown River Walk, where you’ll find a variety of booths showcasing handmade jewelry, artwork, textiles, woodworking, and more. This event is free to attend.
JANUARY 18TH
Freeman Coliseum | 6:30 PM
As a key fundraising event for the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Scholarship Fund, this exclusive party offers top-tier entertainment, delicious food, dancing, and plenty of fun—catering not only to rodeo fans but to everyone in San Antonio. With performances by Trace Adkins, Jeff Woolsey and the Dancehall Kings and The Grooves, this will be an event to remember.
JANUARY 19TH
YOSA Winter Showcase
Tobin Center for the Performing Arts | 7:00 PM
Experience the talent of San Antonio’s finest young musicians as the YOSA Symphony, Wind Ensemble, and Sinfonietta Strings bring the music of Bach, Vivaldi, Schubert, Grieg and more to life in an unforgettable concert.
JANUARY 20TH
MLK March
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Academy | 10:00 AM
The City of San Antonio, in collaboration with District 2 Councilman Jalen McKee-Rodriguez and the San Antonio Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission, led by Dwayne Robinson, invites the community to join in the nation’s largest march. The event will culminate in a celebration at Pittman-Sullivan Park.
JANUARY 25TH - 26TH
Monster Jam
Alamodome | 7:00 PM
Prepare for an adrenaline-fueled spectacle at Monster Jam at the Alamodome! Watch world-class drivers and iconic trucks go head-to-head in thrilling competitions of speed and skill, tearing up the dirt in the ultimate showdown. It’s an action-packed event the whole family will love!
January 25th at 7 PM and January 26th at 3 PM.
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ARTICLE AND
BY TYLER SHANE
Hearty food nourishes the body during cold winter months
As we continue to embrace the cold weather, we may find ourselves craving heavier and grounding foods as we retreat into hibernation. This change in appetite reflects our body’s desire to align with the cycles of nature. Moving into the New Year, it can be common to place more discipline or restrictions on our eating habits. But what if instead of dieting, we nourished ourselves by choosing to support the ebb and flow of our body’s seasons? What if we chose connection — cooking seasonal meals and allowing ourselves to pause to truly enjoy our food? Maybe cheesy bread could be served without the side of guilt.
This Italian wedding soup recipe is simple in its approach, but the result is a hearty and brothy dish. Chunky meats and vegetables add texture to the rich, savory broth making it the ideal meal to help you retreat from the cold temperatures. The Hasselback bread loaf is a straightforward, melty wonder and the perfect vessel for sopping up any leftover broth and goodies in your soup bowl. Together, the soup and cheesy bread make for a well-rounded meal to ground you this season, with a little indulgence.
• 1 Italian bread loaf
• 1 cup butter
• 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 8 oz. bag of shredded mozzarella cheese
1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. Cut foil that is 3 times the length of the bread loaf and lay flat on countertop.
3. Place bread loaf parallel to the length of the foil.
4. With a serrated knife, cut bread in ¾ in. slices, making not to cut all the way through.
5. Melt butter in a bowl. Add garlic and seasonings. Stir to incorporate.
6. With a pastry brush, coat the slices of bread with butter mixture. Be generous with your butter! If you have leftover butter, pour the rest over the entire loaf.
7. Grab handfuls of mozzarella cheese and stuff in between each slice.
8. Cover the bread loaf with foil and place in oven. Bake for 20 minutes, uncovering the foil for the last 5 minutes until the top of the bread is golden brown.
4 Servings
• 1 lb. fresh or frozen pre-made meatballs
• ½ cup carrots, diced small
• ½ cup celery, diced small
• 1 cup onions, diced small
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• 48 oz low sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup orzo pasta (or any small, short noodle)
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp fresh ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped roughly
• 1 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley
1. Whether freshly baked or cooked from frozen, prepare your meatballs and set aside. Meatballs can be prepared ahead of time and kept in the fridge.
2. Bring a medium-sized pot to medium heat. Add oil and butter.
3. Add vegetables to the pot and sweat until onions are translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir occasionally.
4. Add the bay leaf, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to vegetables. Turn heat to medium-high.
5. Bring broth mixture to a rolling boil for five minutes. With tongs, add meatballs to the boiling broth.
6. Add orzo to the broth, stirring continuously to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
7. Continue to cook the pasta for 6-7 minutes. Taste test to make sure pasta is al dente.
8. Throw the fresh herbs into the soup and add salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve immediately.