Banana Bread Cookies

More About This Recipe

• Spring Break is right around the corner!
  
  If you’re anything like me, you’re 50% ecstatic for sunshine and relaxation, and 50% freaked out by the arrival of another bikini season.  Eek!  A bikini? After the holidays, and all that Valentine candy? It’s time to tune up your eating, so you’ll be in tip-top form for any beach destinations in your future.
  
  Shedding some pounds and toning up is all about lean meats, whole grains, and lots of fruits and veggies. Before you groan, remember: It doesn’t have to be boring! Check out some of my favorite flavorful recipes that will help you reach your Spring Break svelte-y self. (Let’s start with a cookie, shall we? Read on…)
  
  Banana Bread Cookies
  
  Banana bread cookies are one of my favorite low-on-guilt, high-on-flavor treats.  They are low in sugar, and they have an extra dose of fiber from the banana and oatmeal—which helps keep you full longer. Bonus: the chocolate chips will satisfy your sweet tooth. Whip up a batch, and share them with your friends!
  
  Citrus Quinoa and Chicken Salad
  
  I love this dish! It’s packed with tons of flavor, along with loads of protein from the quinoa and chicken. Healthy fats from the avocado will keep you satisfied. Best of all? It’s easy to throw together! I like to make a big batch and then eat it for several lunches or dinners.
  
  Apple, Kale and Feta Salad
  
  I’m convinced this salad holds the perfect flavor combination: sweet apples, salty feta cheese, tangy vinegar, and lots of crunch. Yum! But besides the winning flavor combo, you’ll love this one for its health benefits.  Kale is packed full of vitamins, and walnuts have healthy fats.
  
  The great thing about this salad is that it’s even better the next day. I promise it won’t wilt like other green salads. Make it in advance, and use the time you save to hit the gym or go for a walk!
  
  Consider using fat free feta cheese; you won’t mess with the tastes, and you definitely won’t miss the extra calories. And add some chicken to make a complete meal.
  
  Here are some other light meal ideas from Tablespoon to jump start your journey to the Spring Break bikini:
  
  Angel Hair Pasta, Beef & Broccoli Dinner
  Healthified New Orleans -Style Stuffed Peppers
  Stir-Fried Broccoli and Mushrooms with Tofu