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  • MEAL PLANS | Jenn Messina, RD

    MEAL PLANNING MADE EASY Are you looking for new ideas in the kitchen? A customized plan that works for your nutrition goals and activity. But one that is also scaled for your family size, and addresses food preferences, allergies, or medical conditions? ​ I’m now offering customized meal plans with a complimentary 15-minute consultation to take the guesswork out of cooking. You will receive a meal plan customized by a registered dietitian including recipes, instructions, customized prep time, and recommended portion sizes based on your health goals. Plans are fully digital through an online app that you can download for free to your smartphone or tablet, take it with you anywhere. Options for you to make “smart substitutes” from your personalized list of meals that are nutritionally equivalent including restaurant options. WHAT WILL YOU RECEIVE? Option to add in your own family meals and work them into your plan Select your meals and then auto-populate to your digital grocery list, check off the items that you already have and then shop online or in-store Use your daily log if you want track what you are eating Quick View Dietitian's Costco Shopping List Price C$17.00 Quick View Meal Plan Sampler Price C$27.00 Presale Quick View School Lunch Cheat Sheet Meal Plan Picky Eaters Will Love Price C$47.00 Quick View Personalized 8 Week Meal Plan Price C$250.00 Quick View Personalized 6 Week Meal Plan Price C$200.00 Quick View Family-Friendly 5-Day Meal Plan Price C$50.00

  • Event Page | Jenn Messina, RD

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  • HIGH PROTEIN GRANOLA BAR | Jenn Messina, RD

    HIGH PROTEIN GRANOLA BARS I love a good grab-and-go snack but store bought granola bars are often lower in protein. Try this little recipe for a homemade, high protein and zero-packaging alternative. Ingredients ​ 1 cup ground almonds 1 cup rolled oats ½ cup nut butter (my fav is almond hazelnut), room temperature ½ cup shredded coconut 4 medjool dates 2 tbsp chia seeds 1 tbsp maple syrup 1 tbsp coconut oil, melted ​ ​ Instructions ​ Line a pan with parchment paper Remove seeds from dates and purée in blender (or bullet) with a few tablespoons of water. Add date purée to a large bowl and then add all other ingredients (use your hands in necessary) Press onto pan in a rectangular shape and let cool in fridge Once the granola is cooled, slice into bars and enjoy! Back to Recipes

  • KALE CHIPS | Jenn Messina, RD

    KALE CHIPS This is an easy no-fail kale chips recipe! This is the perfect solution if you're craving a light, crunchy, and flavourful snack. Ingredients ​ Baby kale 2 tsp avocado oil (any oil will work) Pinch of salt and pepper 1/2 tsp garlic powder * Season with chilli flakes if you like it spicy! ​ ​ Instructions ​ 1.) Massage the kale with the oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder and other seasonings of your choice 2.) Bake 300 °F for 10 minutes 3.) Toss the kale chips and bake for another 8-10 minutes 4.) Enjoy! ​ ​ ​ Back to Recipes

  • FAQ | Jenn Messina, RD | North Vancouver Dietitian

    FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What Is A Dietitian? In this day of modern technology everyone is a “nutrition expert”. So I wanted to clarify what exactly a dietitian is! Registered Dietitians (or an RD) has 4 years minimum of undergraduate education, over 1,500 hours of supervised practice (aka real in person hands-on experience), a provincial board exam, and a requirement for continuing education to maintain our RD credential. We go through very similar undergraduate training as doctors and then on top of that are required to take many nutrition classes as well foundational science like biochemistry, microbiology, physiology, anatomy and so much more. Anyone with an online course in nutrition can call themselves a ‘Nutritionist’ but a Registered Dietitian is the most trusted source of reliable, life-changing advice that takes into account your medical conditions, social factors, dietary and lifestyle factors and your personal goals. 14 Reasons To See A Dietitian While you certainly can (and should) see a dietitian when you are diagnosed with a medical condition or have symptoms that are affecting your health, know that you can see a dietitian even if you just are curious about trying a new diet or have questions about what it is you are eating. Here are my top reasons to see a dietitian: 1. You’re healthy & curious. If you want to know if what you’re eating is right for your health and goals it could be helpful to discuss with a dietitian. Or if you want to make a change to a different style of eating such as vegan, vegetarian, paleo, gluten-free etc. it's a great idea to make sure you`re fueling your body with what it needs. 2. Your relationship with food needs help. If you are tired of yo-you diets and are looking for help building (or rebuilding) a healthy relationship with food, navigating this crazy world of endless nutrition information it`s time to see a dietitian. Or if you have an eating disorder, a disordered relationship with food or would like to work on repairing your relationship with your body it`s time to see a dietitian. 3. You have digestive issues. Digestive complaints can range from gas, bloating, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, stomachaches, and everything in between. Meeting with a dietitian can help guide you on diet or lifestyle changes that could help. Don’t just guess or go off google, ask a professional. 4. Abnormal bloodwork. If you have abnormal blood work (whether self-tested or through a doctor) or if you have been told by your doctor you need to change your diet. This could include elevated cholesterol or blood sugars, low iron, kidney dysfunction, liver issues, the works. 5. You have diagnosed or suspected food allergies, intolerances or sensitivities. Before cutting anything and everything from your diet it’s important to work with someone who can guide you through the process. 6. You have been diagnosed with a chronic disease. This can include diabetes, heart disease, cholesterol issues, cancer, autoimmune disorders, IBD, IBS, high blood pressure, metabolic concerns, chronic kidney disease, liver problems, and everything in between. However, if you have a family history of any chronic disease, it would be a good idea to see a dietitian before you are diagnosed with such a disease. 7. You are either always hungry or never hungry. Hunger is a very important indicator to help guide your health. You may wake up in the middle of the night hungry or maybe you don’t even know what hunger is supposed to feel like. Hunger should be normal and recognizable and easily fixed with food. If you are hungry all the time (or never hungry) let's figure this out together. 8. You are experiencing fatigue even when sleeping well. Being tired when you go to bed is normal. Being tired around the clock and not being able to function or feel like you are going to fall asleep is not normal and should be investigated further. 9. You are concerned that one of your kids isn't getting what they need. Is your little person a picky eater. Or have they decided to become a vegan. Or are your worried they aren't eating enough or eating too much. Meet with me for a family session and we can come up with a plan to help make sure everyone is meeting their needs to grow and thrive. 10. You are experiencing hormonal issues such as thyroid concerns, infertility issues, PCOS etc. This can look different to different people but if you are feeling like your hormones could be off, it’s time to talk to someone and get back on track. 11. You are pregnant, thinking about becoming pregnant, or post partum. See a dietitian to make sure you are nourishing your body and your baby with everything you need. Postpartum recovery is also super important for your health and wellness whether or not you are breastfeeding. 12. You want help with meal planning. You need to jump start your daily eating with a plan. I offer customized meal plans that are tailored to you and are fully online and interactable to give you menus, recipes, grocery lists, and swaps. No more cooking multiple meals either, all family members are considered! 13. You want to improve athletic performance. You want to gain insight into how to fuel your sports or activities and gain endurance and some competitive advantage through diet/lifestyle. 14. You want to manage your weight. I almost didn’t but this one on here, hence why it’s last, but think it’s worth noting. Weight is not a marker of health, but it can be important to work with a professional if you think you need to or need help to gain, lose, or maintain your weight How Much Do Dietitian Services Cost? Registered Dietitian services are often covered under extended health insurance plans and dietitians can now direct bill to insurance companies. This means less out of pocket expenses and more time focusing on what is important to you. Initial Assessments are 60 minutes in length and include a detailed summary of your nutrition plan and unlimited email support for 3 weeks following the session. This is $250. Depending on your needs follow up sessions are 45-60 minutes and are generally recommended 4-6 weeks after the initial session for long term lifestyle change. These range from $175-200. What Does A Dietitian Do? This has long been a confusing point. It seems that many people believe dietitians are the food police, we put people on strict diet (no more chocolate!), or we order special diets for hospital patients. While some dietitians may do these things we are so much more than that! Dietitians are meant to help translate the science of nutrition into tangible (and tasty) meals that satisfy your body and soul. We are trained to get to the root of the problem, spot areas of success or deficiencies, help you feel your best, and become healthier whether there is a disease involved or not. We are also counsellors and specialize in behavior change and use an unbiased client-centric approach. A lot of people feel like they have to wait for everything to be terrible to see a dietitian or wait for `the perfect time' as they think everything in their diet will change 180 degrees and that’s not at ALL the case.

  • RED COCONUT CURRY | Jenn Messina, RD

    KID APPROVED : RED COCONUT CURRY Looking for a kid-approved 15 minute curry recipe? Look no further! This curry is protein-packed and the riced cauliflower (a zero prep option) helps sneak some veg in this hearty meal. I like to use JLek's red curry paste from Stong's market to add a punch of flavour, without the spice. Ingredients ​ 1 pack frozen, riced cauliflower (about 3 cups) 1 pack ground chicken 1 regular sized can coconut milk (full-fat) 3-4 tbsp JLek red curry paste Optional: garnish cilantro ​ ​ Instructions ​ ​ Heat your frying pan over medium heat. Add some oil and add the red curry paste Add your ground chicken and riced cauliflower to the pan and mix Add 1 can of *full-fat coconut milk and stir Serve with rice or riced cauliflower! ​ * Generally I recommend full-fat coconut milk as low-fat coconut milk is just regular coconut milk with extra water! Save the $ and buy a small can of coconut milk and add your own water if you want to use a low-fat option. ​ ​ ​ Back to Recipes

  • OLDRECIPES | Jenn Messina, RD | North Vancouver Dietitian

    RECIPES QUINOA SALAD This is my go-to make ahead lunch that saves me from the monotony of sandwiches. It delicious, vibrant, and packed with veggies, protein, whole grains and healthy fat to keep you fueled for hours of running around! > Read More POZOLE SOUP This Mexican classic is quite easy to make and super delicious. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken and make something new and fresh. > Read More ALMOND POWERBALLS I couldn’t find a recipe for protein balls that included food in my pantry so I whipped this one up! As you can tell I like easy recipes and minimal mess. > Read More ATOMIC GREEN SMOOTHIE This smoothie was developed to increase the greens my kids eat. We called it atomic green mango shake and it’s a massive hit. ​ > Read More BOSS BUDDHA BOWL This bowl is so beautiful it is (almost) too pretty to eat. Inspired by the pricey cafes I figured a homemade version can’t be much harder. > Read More CREAMY CHOCOLATE MOCHA SHAKE This shake is as creamy as it is delicious. A staple in our house when I need to get out the door but don’t have time to have breakfast and have a coffee. This combines both! > Read More OVERNIGHT OATS I don’t know about you but I need to do some prep to make my crazy weekdays work. These overnight oats pack tons of fiber, protein, and probiotics. > Read More SUPERQUICK PROSCIUTTO & FIG PIZZA This dinner is quick and tasty! Pick up some premade pizza dough at your local bakery and a couple ingredients and you have a pizza dinner that tastes gourmet! > Read More HIGH PROTEIN GRANOLA BARS I love a good grab and go snack but storebought granola bars are often lower in protein. Try this little recipe for a homemade, high protein and zero packaging alternative. > Read More > Read More HEARTY ASIAN TACOS Are you craving hearty tacos with a nutritious twist? These protein-packed lettuce tacos contain a delicious whole grain called spelt. These tacos are a wonderful source of iron, fiber, and protein. > Read More ​ EASIEST CHEESE PIZZA This dinner is just too easy and my kids love it. Way better than buying pizza from any takeout shop! My littles love making the dough and adding their own unique toppings. > Read More PIZZIAOLA MESSINA This is a twist on an Italian favourite, it literally means “pizza maker” sauce. The little variations have been incorporated over time to increase the veggies and save wine for drinking! > Read More TOO EASY CHOCOLATE CHIA PUDDING Chia seeds are remarkable for adding texture and holding water. They swell to form a gel and add healthy fats and protein to food. This pudding is creamy and delicious. A perfect snack or desert. > Read More ​ HIGH PROTEIN BURRITOS I don’t know about you but my mornings always seem rushed! Get some quality protein for breakfast! These burritos are loaded with macros that will keep you full and satisfied for hours. . > Read More FRAGRANT SLOW COOKER CHICKEN CURRY I love a good set & forget recipe. One is a great option for make ahead meals and will feed you and yours for multiple meal! The chicken is so tender and the veggies don’t lose their crunch! > Read More PEANUT BUTTER AND JAM SMOOTHIE This smoothie is so creamy. The protein from the peanut butter and Greek yogurt give this smoothie staying power and the fibre from the berries, chia and the oats will keep you energized for hours. > Read More MOM HACK LASAGNA This recipe was developed over time based on my love for pasta and also for cooking once and feeding my family multiple times. It’s a family favorite! The key is to make it as easy as possible. > Read More THE BEST SHEET PAN GNOCCHI This recipe is fast and delicious and uses only one pan. Minimal mess and maximum flavour. If you didn’t know you could bake gnocchi, you may never go back to boiling again ! > Read More 20 MINUTE THAI CURRY WITH TURKEY What the heck do you do with all those leftovers!? This is perfect if you‘re like me you love leftovers. We use some shortcuts to make this curry nice and easy. > Read More CRISPY CHICKEN TENDERS This recipe is a family favorite and I get everyone in the family helping at various “stations”.Panko breading helps keep these strips nice and crispy! > Read More CRISPY CHICKEN TENDERS THE BEST (VEGAN) BROWNIES This is not only an amazing recipe for vegans but an amazing product in general. This was also approved by my babies which makes it a double win! > Read More TOASTED ALMOND AND FIG GRANOLA Granolais notorious for being a high fat, high calorie food. Try this delicious crunchy and sweet alternative for a great way to kick start your day. ​ > Read More ​ KALE CHIPS This is an easy no-fail kale chips recipe! This is the perfect solution if you're craving a light, crunchy, and flavourful snack. ​ > Read More ​ SIMPLEST LASAGNA SOUP I love an easy meal that has everything in one pot! The veggies I added are interchangeable and a great way to use up odds and ends in the fridge. > Read More ​ SHEET PAN HONEY GARLIC CHICKEN I love a good sheet pan meal and they don’t get any easier than this. Everything cooks on 2 large pans and you have enough food for multiple meals yay! > Read More ​ ONE POT RED WINE BOLOGNESE This one pot red wine bolognese pasta is quick and easy. Throw all your ingredients into a pot and let it sit and stew altogether.This is a perfect hearty sauce for the family! > Read More ​ ONE POT RED WINE BOLOGNESE These little tasty bites are perfect when you’re on the go, I make a big batch and roll have in cocoa powder and half plain. ​ ​ > Read More PEANUT BUTTER BALLS PEANUT BUTTER BALLS BEST ONE BOWL BREAKFAST COOKIES These breakfast cookies are delicious and filled with all the good stuff! Make a batch and then pop them in the freezer to keep them fresh. ​ > Read More BEST ONE BOWL BREAKFAST COOKIES 15 MINUTE SOBA NOODLE ZOODLE SALAD This is pretty much the fastest meal going. This salad is a great vegan make-ahead lunch. ​ > Read More KIDS FAVOURITE BREAKFAST COOKIES My kids love helping with this one! It is loaded with whole grains and plant based protein and fibre. It is the perfect breakfast for the whole family and it’s kid approved! T > Read More CHOCOLATE ALMOND DREAM SHAKE This tastes as good as it sounds, it’s creamy and dreamy and packed full of protein and fat to keep you full for hours. This packs a punch with 28g of protein wow! > Read More QUINOA POWER BALLS These delicious little bites are perfect for those that want to try something new! Quinoa flakes are high in protein and fibre and gluten free! ​ > Read More APPLE CINNAMON MUFFINS These are delicious, healthy and packed with nutrients to keep you full for hours. ​ ​ ​ > Read More VANILLA BEAN APRICOT GRANOLA . This granola gives you a great source of fibre and protein to keep you full and satisfied! ​ ​ ​ > Read More KID APPROVED RED COCONUT CURRY Looking for a kid-approved 10-minute curry recipe? Throw everything in a pan and serve! ​ ​ ​ > Read More 15 MINUTE CURRY QUINOA PRAWNS This recipe is fast and delicious and can be made in 15 minutes! ​ ​ ​ > Read More CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER COOKIES These no bake cookies are the perfect healthy grab n' go snack any day. The Mumgry Chocolate Peanut Butter is like no other nut butter you have tried! > Read More GRILLED CHICKEN AND RICE PILAF This smokey chicken and rice pilaf is the perfect dish for any summer BBQ. It's super flavourful and so easy to make. ​ > Read More 4 INGREDIENT BREAKFAST COOKIES These 4 ingredient breakfast cookies are unbelievably good! But let’s be honest, cookies at any time are always a good idea! > Read More HOMEMADE TOMATO BASIL SAUCE This tomato sauce is loaded with flavour, choose cherry tomatoes when they are sweet for the best flavour. > Read More HIGH PROTEIN SOUR CREAM DIP This sour cream dip is packed with protein and is perfectly versatile as a snack dip, sandwich spread, or marinade. > Read More PEANUT BUTTER BANANA TOAST This super easy breakfast will leave you and your kids feeling full for hours! . > Read More CHICKEN & QUACAMOLE WRAP In a time crunch? These wraps make a perfect on-the-go lunch, perfect for the whole family. > Read More VEGETABLE QUINOA CHILI If you have cooked leftover quinoa on hand, give this hearty chili a try! > Read More ONE PAN SIMPLE BEEF PASTA SKILLET This recipe is perfect for anyone that wants a hearty pasta dish while avoiding heaps of dishes to clean. > Read More CURRIED CHICKPEA CAULIFLOWER COUSCOUS This is a surprisingly fast and easy recipe that is vegetarian/vegan friendly! ​ ​ > Read More BLUEBERRY MANGO SMOOTHIE This is the perfect summer smoothie! > Read More CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER SMOOTHIE BOWL Who doesn't love a creamy smoothie bowl?! Top this smoothie bowl with any nuts, seeds, or fruits of choice! > Read More KIDS FAV OATMEAL PANCAKES (GLUTEN FREE) These are delicious, full of fibre, protein and whole grains. These take minutes to make, freeze well and everyone loved them! > Read More LENTIL MCNUGGETS ​ My kids love to handheld food that they can dip. These nuggets are super quick and super tasty. > Read More KIDS FRENCH TOAST ​ French toast is a great way to incorporate protein, use bread that would otherwise be trashed. > Read More NUT-FREE KIDS PROTEIN BALLS Back to School means snacks need to be “nut-free” these little protein balls are full of fibre, healthy fats and protein to keep little one full for hours. > Read More LEMON CAPER LINGUINE ​ This pasta is delicious, uses minimal ingredients, and best of all takes only 20 minutes to make! ​ > Read More BETTER THAN TAKEOUT: CHINESE FRIED CHICKEN & BROCCOLI This recipe is so easy you'll wonder why you ever bothered with Chinese takeout in the first place! > Read More TEMPEH "CHICKEN" STRIPS Tempeh is also loaded with prebiotics, which is a type of fibre that provides fuels for the healthy gut bacteria and can improve digestive health. > Read More PROTEIN PACKED TOMATO SOUP It's soup season! This soup is rich and creamy (without the cream!) The secret ingredient? Cannellini beans! ​ > Read More ONE BOWL BANANA BREAD - FUNTASTIC EDITION I don’t know about you but I need things to be easy. The less mess the better. ​ ​ > Read More HUMMUS HEADS What better way to make snacks FUN and increase the chances your kids will try beans & veggies than creating your own hummus heads! > Read More COOKIE DOUGH PROTEIN BITES These protein bites are made with a handful of pantry staples and are a delicious no bake treat! You will be fighting your kids for them > Read More CREAMY STRAWBERRY & CAULIFLOWER SMOOTHIE This sweet pink smoothie is so dreamy and smooth, you and your kids won't even notice the cauliflower! ​ > Read More HIGH IRON WEEKEND WAFFLES These high iron beauties will be a hit with even your pickiest little one! ​ > Read More THE BEST BLACK BEAN BROWNIES These are NOT the typical “healthy” substitution. ​ ​ > Read More

  • VANILLA BEAN APRICOT GRANOLA | Jenn Messina, RD

    VANILLA BEAN APRICOT GRANOLA This recipe is super simple and great to make ahead for the whole week stored in an airtight container. It gives you a great source of fibre and protein to keep you full and satisfied and it’s oh so delicious! I love adding this to yogurt or make a smoothie bowl with it. Ingredients ​ 2.5 cups rolled oats ½ cup Bran Buds ½ cup sliced toasted almonds 2 bananas, mashed ½ cup applesauce ¼ cup honey 1 tsp vanilla ½ tsp salt 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted 20 dried apricots, cut in half ​ ​ Instructions ​ ​ Preheat oven to 350 °F and line 2 trays with parchment paper In a large bowl, mash 2 bananas with a fork and add oats, bran buds, sliced almonds, applesauce, salt, and vanilla In a small bowl combine coconut oil and honey and microwave for 20 seconds (or warm in a pan over the stove), add this to the oats mixture and stir to combine. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown ​ ​ ​ Back to Recipes

  • THE BEST VEGAN BROWNIES | Jenn Messina, RD

    THE BEST (VEGAN) BROWNIES This is an amazing brownie recipe. Not only is this an amazing recipe for only vegans but an amazing product in general. This was also approved by my babies which makes it a double win! You better believe we gobbled these up in seconds! Ingredients ​ 1 cup + 2 tbsp milk of choice (we used soy) 1/2 cup + 3 tbsp canola 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract 1 cup white flour 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1/4 tsp + 1/8 tsp salt 1/2 tsp baking powder 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup white sugar 2 tbsp ground chia seeds 1 tbsp ground instant coffee ​ ​ Instructions ​ Whisk together the first 3 ingredients, then set aside Preheat oven to 330°F Grease a 9×13 pan and set aside In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine all remaining ingredients Pour wet into dry, stir to combine, and pour into prepared pan. Smooth down. Bake for 16 minutes The brownies will look a little underdone when they come out, but that’s okay! Test with a toothpick cooked through (ish) they firm up. Drizzle with icing if desired use 2 tbsp coconut oil melted, 1 tbsp cocoa powder and 1.5 tbsp icing sugar Back to Recipes

  • COOKIE DOUGH PROTEIN BITES | Jenn Messina, RD

    COOKIE DOUGH PROTEIN BITES These protein bites are made with a handful of pantry staples and are a delicious no bake treat! You will be fighting your kids for them. Ingredients ​ 1 3/4 cup oat flour (or grind your own oats in a food processor) 1/8 tsp salt 1/3 ground almonds (or your fav protein powder) 1/2 cup natural cashew or almond butter 1/3 cup maple syrup 1 tsp vanilla 1/3 cup milk choice (add additional 1-2 tbsp as needed) 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips ​ ​ Instructions ​​ In a small bowl whisk together nut butter, syrup and vanilla. If the nut butter is too hard, microwave for 15-20 seconds before combining In a large bowl add oat flour, ground almonds (or protein powder) and salt and stir Add the nut butter mixture to the flour and stir in the milk and chocolate chips. The mix should be sticky and moist Roll into tablespoon size balls and chill for 30 min in the fridge before transferring to an airtight container to freeze ​ ​ Back to Recipes

  • SCHOOL PRESENTATIONS | Jenn Messina, RD | North Vancouver Dietitian

    SCHOOL WORKSHOPS Let's get started! Jenn is excited to offer both in-person and virtual workshops for parents and students this 2023-2024 school year! ​ Her presentations focus on food neutrality and body diversity & inclusivity. ​ 1. Virtual 60 minute workshops are available for parents/caregivers on common topics such as supporting 'picky' eaters, raising kids with intuitive eating skills, and promoting body positivity Cost: $500 plus gst for parent workshop 2. In-person 60 minute student presentations are available for grades K-12. For schools with more than one class per grade, these can be combined for a single presentation (or two grades can be combined e.g. K/1, 2/3, 4/5). Please note that the ideal group size is one to two classes per workshop. Presentations will be customized to the curriculum points for each grade Cost: $375-$500 plus gst for student workshop with discounted rates for multiple sessions booked in one day ​ 3. Virtual 60 minute teacher workshops are available to support teachers with ideas, lesson plans, and resources to teach kids about nutrition, body image, weight based teasing. Cost: $500 plus gst for teacher workshop ​ Please email Jenn directly or message her on the "Say Hello" tab ​

  • MOM HACK LASAGNA | Jenn Messina, RD

    MOM HACK LASAGNA This recipe was developed based on my love for pasta and cooking. It’s a family favorite! The key is to make it as easy as possible. I don’t always use reduced fat dairy products but the meat has enough fat to keep the lasagna moist and creamy. You can also save time using pre-grated cheese but we like shredding it ourselves. Good quality sauce and tomatoes allows you to skip most additional herbs or spices. Ingredients ​ 600g extra lean ground beef 12 mushrooms 3 cloves of garlic 1 small onion, peeled 1 box pre-washed baby spinach 1 jar Italian Passata Sauce with basil 1 can fire roasted tomatoes Ricotta cheese (reduced fat) Mozzarella cheese (reduced fat), shredded Parmesan cheese, shredded 1 box whole wheat lasagna noodles Olive oil Salt and pepper ​ ​ ​ Instructions ​ Start running the tap and fill up a large pot with HOT salted water, this speeds up the time it will take to get your noodles ready. Heat the pot over high heat with a lid. When a rolling boil cook noodles per package instructions. I like to undercook by 1-2 minutes to ensure the pasta is al dente in the end. My Italian husband hates soggy noodles! Preheat the over to 375 °F. Heat another large pan over the stove at medium heat and add a tbsp of olive oil. Use a food processor or bullet to quickly chopped your onion into fine pieces. Add this to the fry pan and cook until golden Meanwhile, use your bullet to chop the garlic and add it to the onions. Pan fry together for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and not burnt. Add ground beef to the pan and cook until the meat is no longer pink. Slice and add mushrooms to meat after brown. Then add box of spinach, bottle of sauce, can of tomatoes and simmer until the spinach is wilted down. It will seem like too much spinach but it shrinks a lot! Get a glass 8 x 12” Pyrex glass pan and layer the bottom with noodles evenly. Use 4 noodles/row. Layer the meat sauce, a dust of mozzarella cheese, noodles, ricotta cheese, noodles and final layer of meat sauce. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown Back to Recipes

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