"Clean Slate," our newest cookbook published by Clarkson Potter, is full of more than 160 delicious recipes and emphasizes a clean, whole diet of vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergen-free options. Thankfully, there are several delicious dessert recipes included, as well.
So, how did the challenge work?
We decided to organize into groups of three people. For breakfast and dinner, we were on our own, but lunch was prepared and eaten communally at the office. Every day, within each three-person group, one person would go to the test kitchen to cook lunch for the other two members of the group. Then, we'd all eat together in one of our larger conference rooms. The next day, the roles would switch, and someone else would prepare the meal for the remaining two group members. This made sense financially, and also allowed each member to be an active participant. We made sure not to cook the same meal twice.
One of our favorite meals was the delicious Baked Sweet Potato with Greens. Loaded with nutrients and rich, starchy flavor, we were surprised at how filling this simple dish was. Not to mention that it was a cinch to make.
Everyone agreed that the challenge changed the way they thought about their eating habits, and were surprised at the benefits they were already reaping -- just a few days into "eating clean." One employee found that she was better able to fall asleep at night because her daily sugar intake had lessened so drastically. Others commented that they felt more clear-headed during the day.
At first, we all thought of the three days as a "challenge." We emerged, however, viewing Clean Slate as more of a "lifestyle." And that, we believe, is the true aim of the cookbook.
Sure, maybe not all of us have the time or energy to cook healthfully every single day, but our mind-sets had shifted. We recognized what made us feel healthier and understood that cooking without any processed additives could have real, tangible impacts on our lives.
And that's something we should all celebrate.
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