Oh just some French toast. NBD.
This version with Cville Crunch bread (which is 100% whole wheat with flax and walnuts – my fav) topped with seared pears, chia seeds, coconut and Justin’s Chocolate Almond Butter.
Almost too decadent with all that chocolaty taste!
Matt and I had to record commercials for the radio again (one of our most fun business meetings!) so we treated ourselves to lunch after.
Our neighbor owns a lunch spot called Zazus, so we headed to that side of town to try it out.
I had the chicken curry bowl that came with rice, chicken curry, lettuce, almonds and COCONUT! (That looks like cheese on top, but it’s coconut). Made the dish!
Matt and I also shared some chips. His tilapia wrap was quite good too.
Afterwards we went next door to the best coffee shop in the world: Shenandoah Joe.
I was thinking while I sipped my decaf cappuccino that SJ’s coffee really is the BEST I have tasted worldwide – including some of the fancy places in San Francisco and Chicago.
I wouldn’t necessarily say it’s better than those places, but it’s on par – delicious coffee. I drink their Ethiopian Decaf every day (best decaf I’ve ever had for sure), and we love the owner Dave!
After our coffees, we went home to chill for a bit. Matt is taking one afternoon off during the week for family time to make up for missed Saturday mornings together, and this was it!
Then, we went RUNNING! I haven’t been on nearly the amount of runs that I would like lately. Being home alone, it’s just easier to take him to the gym than it is to coordinate running outdoors. But today Matt and I traded spaces – me first, him second. Mazen slept for a long nap while I was gone.
My run was awesome. Despite not running in a while, my legs remembered what to do and I have shaved a whole minute off my pace from my first couple of runs*.
*That doesn’t mean I’m fast. It means my first few runs were realllllly slow!!
Post run cereal snack:
For dinner, Hillary came over for a weeknight feast!
The meal we created we absolutely divine!
Roasted Twin Oaks tofu
A TON of roasted broccoli + cauliflower plus sweet potatoes!
Rice + sautéed mushrooms, all coasted in a wonderful peanut sauce.
Hillary was in charge of the sauce and said she might share the rough recipe in the comments. It was a mix of PB2, tamari, sriracha, brown sugar, and peanut butter, at least!
Having company over called for a little dessert (I admit I really need to cut back on the weeknight desserts….!!) so we pulled out a slice of Larbs’s birthday cake from the freezer!! She saved this for me and had it hand delivered by mom on a trip in November. It was an incredible cake from her favorite bakery, and of course the frosting was the highlight.
A sliver for each of us was the perfect ending to a fun dinner.
Molly @ RDexposed says
My sweet tooth has been having flare ups now that it’s the holidays. I have been forcing myself to be strong and ride out the cravings.
Laura @ Sprint 2 the Table says
Your roasted plate looks fantastic – I’m going to have to do that today. It’s been far too long since I’ve baked tofu.
Parita @ myinnershakti says
Your dinner looks similar to mine. The combination of veggies, tofu, and homemade peanut sauce never gets old!
jenn says
Totally, totally agreed on the Shanendoah Joe. It is SO so so good. I LOVE their cappuccinos with the sweet Brazilian Blue .
Matt says
I always get the 8oz Traditional sized (“Traddy” if you want the barista to think you’re cool) with Dark Horse. It’s rich, chocolatey, and fruity like plums.
A barista once convinced me to get this when I didn’t know what I wanted and I was blown away. I’m not joking when I say I was thinking about this drink for three days afterwards!
Kay Lynn says
I’m really enjoying the posts lately! You seem like you are really enjoying life.
So…Whole Foods just opened here in Boise and it is HUGE! I was completely overwhelmed. In your opinion, what are the “can’t miss” items at WF? I want to start adding a few fun things to our mix at home. Would appreciate any tips! 🙂
KathEats says
Other than their amazing hot bar, most of the stuff I buy is generic/produce. I do really like their cereals (wheat waffles), whole wheat tortillas, goat feta, baked beans, triscuit crackers…
Linda says
The peanut sauce sounds delicious, I would definitely love to have the recipe!
Tine says
Kath, you look so great! Being a mom suits you very well!
You still have that glow on your face and you look superduper happy.
I’m 13 weeks pregnant right now and hope I will look that fit, healthy and shiny like you when I’ll be a mom!
KathEats says
🙂 Congrats! Hope you’re feeling well
Alicia @ Wanna Be Ina says
And now I am craving Thai! 😉
Katie @ Peace Love and Oats says
That chicken curry bowl you had for lunch looks amazing, it makes me really want some Thai food!
Claire @ Live and Love to Eat says
You have so many incredible hometown foodie spots – I feel like all we have are big chain stores!
deb says
Kudos on getting out for a run…yay for fresh air and endorphins!
I would really reconsider bringing Mazen to the gym this time of year.
Considering how flu/RSV/colds are spread, the gym is a hotbed for germs. Even though your little guy’s not “playing” with other children, there are so many airborne germs and it’s doubtful the baby equipment and children’s area is sterilized/sanitized on a daily basis.
It’s also doubtful that the caregiver is able to wash his/her hands frequently while handling and caring for all the kids.
Just food for thought, not being critical.
Katherine says
They actually sanitize every single toy at the end of the day and have a break in the afternoon where they close to do it again. I brought both of my kids to this gym daycare as babies and continue to do so now. My children never got sick when they were too young to be mouthing things. Once they were crawling and socializing more, they got sick a fair bit, but now seem to have really strong immune systems and it has made the start of pre-school much more smooth!
Janine says
Don’t be scared of a few germs! Kid’s don’t eat enough dirt these days – google the Hygiene Hypothesis….
Colds and flues aren’t a ton of fun, but they are a normal part of life. Just keep supporting his immune system with breastmilk, Vitamin D, and maybe some probiotics if your Doc agrees.
Jackie says
It’s good for kids to be exposed to illnesses when they are old enough to not have a life threatening reaction to common things like the flu and the cold (RSV). Many, many healthy young babies are hospitalized from RSV, even breastfeed ones!
And as for the I did it and my kids were fine argument, well, that just means you were lucky, not that it’s a good idea.
Erin says
What do you think moms who work outside the home do? We take our kids to daycare.
Jackie@ MuscleUpMom says
Don’t you think day care for the purposes of going to work vs. exercising is different? Especially for such a young baby. Especially during the winter sick season? Especially when there are other alternatives (DVDs at home, getting a babysitter, walking/running with the jog stroller, trading off with your husband)?
Erin says
Sure, there is some difference. But he’s there for maybe an hour? I don’t think it’s as big of a deal as people are making it out to be. I’m a few years into being my son’s mom and I still second guess myself, without being criticized by people who don’t know me. I just think that people should trust that she makes responsible choices and not nit pick, that’s all. Plus, he’s a small baby still, but lots of babies, unfortunately, begin daycare at only 6 weeks old. I do think that’s a tragedy and that this great country has a lot to learn from other countries who provide lots of paid maternity leave.
Sara @ fitcupcaker says
I want to eat your food right off your blog page! And I love cereal I could probably eat it for any meal!
Elise @ Expeditions of Elise says
I love that vest you wore on your run! Where did you get it? I should get a vest for running.
KathEats says
Old navy super cheap!
Sarah says
Oh man, I NEED that sauce! I hope the recipe appears 🙂
Ashley @ Coffee Cake and Cardio says
Great job on your run Kath! That’s great that you took a minute off.
Ashley @ My Food 'N' Fitness Diaries says
Yumm, that French toast sure does look decadent! Great job on your run! I’m sure it must feel awesome to get back to it!
Molly says
Where are your running tights from? In need of a winter pair! Thanks!
KathEats says
They are American Apparel that I got through a Fit Box with PV.Body that I’m reviewing for BERF soon! I LOVEEEE them!
Darla says
FYI Molly (and Kath), Groupon just had a deal for American Apparel a couple days ago if you’re interested in checking it out.
KathEats says
Ooo!
Spice Chicken says
I need winter running tights too, and my problem is that most pairs are way too long because I’m 5’2″. Are you a shorty too or can you wear regular lengths? Just wondering if the American Apparel tights come in short.
KathEats says
I’m 5’2″ as well and these are perfect… They don’t appear to be short length
Cait's Plate says
Good to know about the decaf SJ! I will definitely make a point of going there if I’m ever in Cville. I have yet to find a decaf I really LOVE.
Also, you can never go wrong with roasted veggies! That whole dinner plate looks incredible 🙂
Lauren says
Maze is starting to get the baby chins and I love it, his mama is feeding him well! It must be awesome to know that he is growing because of what you are providing him. He is really precious.
KathEats says
It’s crazy to me that I grew him and I am still growing him!
Melissa says
BEST FEELING IN THE WORLD!
karen says
What does NBD mean?
KathEats says
No big deal : )
Lisa says
I recently started roasting cauliflower and it’s my current favorite vegetable! Actually, cauliflower and carrots together…mmm.
As for desert, I eat it everyday. 😉
Kavi says
Good coffee is one of life’s best little treats! It’s nice that you live so close to such a great coffee shop.
Brett says
Love SJ. I live for an iced coffee from SJ.
Susan H. @ The Food Allergy Chronicles says
The roasted veggie medley looks soooo good! I think roasted cauliflower will be on the menu soon! 🙂 Weather has been perfect for getting outside…taking advantage of it as much as I can before the snow hits! 🙂
Nicole@ livingthesweetlifestl.wordpress.com says
I love all the different bowls and plates you use…so cute!
Averie @ Averie Cooks says
roasted broccoli + cauliflower plus sweet potatoes plus that tofu – that is a great dinner. I want that dinner!
And that decaf capp and coffee being the best ever – that is such high praise! Wow, wish I could try it now!
kim@hungryhealthygirl says
You look great, Kath and way to go on the run!
Amanda @Eat More Rabbit Food says
I love roasted veggies! And I bet that peanut sauce was amazing with them! Thanks for giving me some dinner inspiration! Congrats on your run! 🙂
Stefanie @ Thin Vegetarian says
Those roasted veggies and tofu look amazing!
Hillary B says
Peanut Sauce:
Makes about 1 cup of sauce? This a total estimation of ingredients – I didn’t measure at all, and just kept adding stuff to the bowl in spoonfuls and splashes until I thought it tasted good and was the right consistency.
Maybe 1/2 cup of pb2? (pb2 is powdered peanut butter – I used it because I had it on hand and it’s good for making sauces. 1/2 cup of traditional peanut butter would be a fine starting place. I just used whatever I had left in the jar)
1/3 cup water (start with a few tablespoons and add water as necessary to thin it out)
2 tablespoons of regular peanut butter (we used this to thicken the sauce when I had thinned it out too much)
2 tablespoons tamari (or soy sauce)
1 tablespoon sriracha (more or less to taste)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon Hoisin sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
Add all ingredients in a bowl and whisk until desired consistency is achieved (ours was about the consistency of chocolate syrup). I meant to add a splash of lime juice and a drizzle of sesame oil to this as well, but forgot to bring those over. I kept tasting it and adjusting as I went (too salty- added brown sugar. too thin – added more PB, etc). It was lick-your-plate good.
Ella P says
Thank you so much, Hillary, so kind of you indeed.
KathEats says
Yay thanks H!!
Kelly says
Thank you so much for sharing your recipe. I can’t wait to make this on my own.
cyndy says
Thanks!!!
Shana says
Thanks! Can’t wait to try this!
Darla says
Thanks you. I’m excited to try it!
Emily @ Emily Eats and Runs says
It’s so cool that you and Matt personally know your local restaurant and shop owners! It sounds like Charlottesville is a great community.
Mark says
We don’t have a Great American Harvest here. What do think of the Ezekiel sprouted breads? I really like there sesame and raisin breads.
KathEats says
Thumbs up for nutrition
Liz says
Aghr! The 3rd pic of the baby smiling!!! Cuuuuuuuutttteee! Maze is such a lovely cute baby!
Carly @ Snack Therapy says
Yay for your run! Very exciting. Even more exciting? That French toast….. GIMMIE SOME :).
Natalie says
I love the bicycle mug. Do you remember where it’s from or have the link to it online?
KathEats says
It was a gift unfortunately
Lynda @ Healthy Hoboken Girl says
Fisherman Eddys in NYC
Larbs says
It’s the best cake I’ve ever had!! BOTH buttercream and cream cheese icing is what makes it…
Spice Chicken says
That sounds dangerous but so good. What kind of cake was it? It looks like maybe carrot or spice?
Annette @FitnessPerks says
Mmm roasted veggies with a good sauce is the best. YUMM.
Amanda B. says
Chocolate for breakfast again!!!!!
Eric Ashburn says
Thanks for the great info! My wife has been following your blog for a while now. We are clean-eating, foodies with a newborn, so pretty similar in interests as well as life-timing. Your information is great, pictures are wonderful and message draws focus to important things in life. Keep up the good work.
KathEats says
Thanks Eric!!
Angel7 says
I would love to try a cup of Shenandoah Joe’s coffee!
Kristen@Change of Pace says
Soon enough Maze will be able to go in the jogging stroller! Then you can have family runs 🙂
Lily says
You go girl! You body is rockin’! 😉
Michelle (Peachy Palate) says
Well done on the run regardless and you’re looking like your fighting fit!!! I want that dinner, it’s like all my favourite savoury things on a plate!
kiki says
haha. I know one of your runs was reallllly slow.
KathEats says
Haha
Katie @ Talk Less, Say More says
Your french toast always makes me so hungry just to look at!! Mmmm
Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin says
I’m having a sort of similar dinner – roasted broccoli, BBQ tempeh, and roasted sweet potato with almond butter. I love how roasted dinners are simple, but always so satisfying!
Verenique B says
mmmm your french toast looks amazing! i love french toast!!!
Verenique B says
seriously! wanna come to my house and make my bfast sometime???
🙂
Ashley @ Hudson on the Potomac says
How do you roast your tofu?? I’ve never tried and am intrigued!! I always just saute mine on the stove, roasting sounds even easier!
KathEats says
It was actually sauteed in safflower oil – put in and walk away method!
Lynda @ Healthy Hoboken Girl says
You look amazing!!! So glad you got in a run. Thanks for always inspiring us to eat well and live well. Hugs to the little man…so cute!!
Rachel S. says
Can you please start selling your bread online?!? Every time I see the delicious stuff my stomach growls.
Kelsey @ SoMuchLifeToLive says
Better than INTELLIGENTSIA!!??? Just kidding…I’m not a coffee pro so I really wouldn’t know, but I felt like I should stand up for Chicago’s snobiest coffee shop:)
It’s so so hard for me to cut back on evening desserts! If you come up with any good ideas or suggestions, could you share?
Ilane says
Kath, your meals are always awesome. I have to replicate these dishes 🙂
1. For how long did you roast your veggies? At what temperature?
2. Do you squeeze the tofu before sautéing it? Which kind do you prefer to use?
Thanks!!!
KathEats says
Our veggies are always 400* for about 40 minutes, although the broccoli may have been a little less. But remember the 4’s
And we use a local tofu called Twin Oaks that is really thick. Even so, I don’t formally press tofu – just informally with my hands and pat very dry before cooking
Ilane says
I don’t remember the 4’s… 🙁
Which 4’s are they?
KathEats says
400* for 40 minutes
Birdie says
Good for you getting back into your fitness routines – so important for mental, physical, and emotional health. I’m a walker these days, used to run but am in cancer recovery right now. I do hope to get back to it in the future.
I’m wondering about the cake – I’ve never frozen cake, and I’m wondering how you get it ready to serve. Do you simply let it thaw for a little while? Stick it in the oven? Does freezing cake and frosting change the consistency or taste? Now that I’m down to one teenager at home, sometimes I want to bake a layer cake for fun, but there’s no way we could get through it before it gets stale.
KathEats says
Glad you are in recovery <3
We froze it in aluminum foil and the key is to remove the foil before thawing - so the frosting doesn't stick. I just put it on a plate and let it come to room temp. Sometimes get a lift from the microwave
Katie @ SkinnyMinnieMoves says
I love that chocolate almond butter. But always end up eating too much! Whoops