The Devine Nutrition Recipe + Blog is back!!!!

Thank you for subscribing to either our blog back in the day or the Kitchen Counter Cooking School!

The goal of the blog is to relay sound nutrition advice and of course.. get you and your family back in the kitchen!
As a Registered Dietitian for over 18 years (WOW), I have seen a trend in adults and kids relying on take out foods or boxed meals for dinners and meals. And as a busy parent, there is a time and place for take out or dining out for sure. I would never deny that. But there is so much research to support the benefits of family cooking and family dinners and it starts at home. I started Kitchen Counter Cooking School about 1.5 years ago at home to teach basic cooking skills to my daughter. It has been a blast and we have tried many new dishes.
I never focus on food labels or fat or sugar with her but rather on enjoying whole foods. All foods and recipes can fit in a healthy diet. Let teach our kids about moderation, trying new foods and quality time in the kitchen!

A few benefits of family dinners and cooking at home for children:
– Better nutrition overall. Increase in fruits, veggies, whole grains, calcium, you name it!
– Regular family dinners are linked to lower rates of depression, anxiety, and risky behaviors (Journal of Adolescent Health, 2012).
– A study in JAMA Pediatrics 2023, found that kids who engage in regular family meals have better self esteem and resilience.
– Higher academic performance. A report from Columbia University’s National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse found that students who participate in family meals at least 5 times a week are TWICE as likely to get A’s and B’s in school.
– Stronger family bonds and social skills. Conversations during dinner help build vocab and language skills leading to better literacy outcomes (Harvard Graduate School of Education).

Now.. onto a new recipe!
Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Garlic Sauce

Ingredients:

Grilled Shrimp:
1 lb. large shrimp peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional

Corn Salsa:
1 cup frozen corn thawed
1/2 cup red onion diced
1/4 cup cilantro chopped
1 jalapeño seeded and minced (optional)
1 lime juiced
Salt to taste

Creamy Garlic Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon cilantro chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Bowl:
1 avocado sliced (or mashed)
Sesame seeds for garnish
green onions chopped, for garnish
Instructions:

Prep the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toss to coat.
Make the Corn Salsa: Combine corn, red onion, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, lime juice, and salt in a bowl. Mix gently and set aside.
Grill the Shrimp: Grill the shrimp over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Bowls: Divide the corn salsa between bowls and top with grilled shrimp, avocado (sliced, cubed or mashed), and drizzle with Creamy Garlic Sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Enjoy~

Kelly (and Addy)