Broccoli Salad + August Updates & Challenge!

Summer, where did you go? I can not believe we have made it to August and that the summer is coming to an end. Not to mention that we are eight months into the year!

This summer has been incredible. However, I feel as if I have hardly been home. Our apartment is in need of some serious end of summer attention and my poor routine is nonexistent. From three weeks in Dallas, Michigan, house sitting, Fredericksburg, and weekend festivities; I have not met my step goal in ages! Coming into the summer I was averaging about 14k a day and now I am struggling to reach 7k. So much of it is the heat (I know, excuses).
At work, I like to utilize my lunch by walking our parking garage but trying to cool off in business apparel, and smelling like outdoors, isn’t fun.

Likewise, Rosie isn’t having it either. Our vet discouraged us from outdoor activities until we begin to see cooler weather. They had a few pets in the area with emergency attention due to the heat and when they told us that, our walks halted! Other than our short walks around the complex, we pretty much hibernate indoors and complain about having to go outdoors. A bit ridiculous but, this is not my time of year. We are both missing our walks in the evenings!

Which leads me to a fun challenge!

This exact conversation stirred up a handful of interests between work and my personal circle so I have decided to carry it over to all of the Wholesome Joy readers. During the month of August, I am challenging you to meet your daily step goal. There is no minimum goal or weird requirements to accept this challenge. Whatever your goal is, meet it! Every day. Hopefully, we can share our progress as the month progresses!

If you do not have any sort of tracker, but have a smart phone, The fitbit app has the ability to track steps and movement by using the GPS on your device. Taking your phone with you everywhere can be a challenge in itself, but I am a firm believer in anything being better than nothing. I also believe that the iPhone comes with a similar feature through the health application.

If you’re feeling extra sassy and would like to stay accountable and competitive, please feel free to add me on fitbit!

You can locate me by searching for my connected email– WholesomeJoyBlog@gmail.com
I hope you join in on the fun!
Happy stepping!

Broccoli salad is one of my absolute favorite sides in the world. If I told you this was the best recipe out there, I would be lying. My Mother-in-law’s broccoli salad is the best there is and until you’ve had hers, you have not lived. Along with many other incredible dishes that comes out of their kitchen. Naturally, her salad inspired me to make my own that many people can enjoy during and after their transition into a “paleo” lifestyle. This recipe can be modified to meet those embarking on a Whole 30 or those wanting to refrain from processed sugar and conventional mayo.

I also find this recipe to be a great addition to our meal prep for the week. This salad holds up well in the fridge all week long and is even more delicious as the flavors soak into the broccoli. I hope to bring you even more meal prep worthy ideas and recipes this month with not only school beginning, but sports. My brother coaches high school football and if your child’s schedule is anything like his, a little grace and preparation can be your lifeline.

Happiest of days to you, my best friends!

Broccoli Salad
Serves: 6-8
Time: 1 hour, including prepping and sauce

Sauce:
1 Batch of Homemade Mayonnaise
1 1/2 Tablespoons of Pure Maple Syrup*
2 Tablespoons of White Vinegar
4 Scallions, thinly sliced
Pinch of Salt
Pinch of Pepper

Salad Ingredients:
2 broccoli crowns, washed and cut into bit size pieces
1/4 Red Onion, diced
Dried cranberries or raisins
5-6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/2 cup Walnuts, chopped

* Omit ingredient if you are currently embarking on a Whole30. For those focused on a ketogenic lifestyle, substitute a drop or two of liquid stevia, swerve, or monkfruit.

 

Directions:

1. Begin by preparing your sauce. Combine all ingredients and stir to incorporate. Cover and refrigerate for one hour.
2. Prep the remaining salad ingredients by cutting them to the specified size.
3. Place all ingredients into a large bowl.
4. Just before serving, pour over the salad and stir to incorporate.
5. Serve along side your favorite protein and store the remaining salad in the refrigerator for up to one week.