Chili was never really my thing—especially not the kind that’s basically ground beef soup with five cans of beans and zero personality. But then I met this chili. Technically, it’s more of a spicy superfood soup, but it’s got tomatoes, chili powder, and a big flavor punch… so we’re calling it chili and rolling with it.
It features some of my favorite ingredients—like roasted bell peppers, red onion, and spicy sweet potatoes (trust me on this one). The cayenne kicks, the colors pop, and it actually leaves you feeling full and kind of proud of yourself.
And if you’ve been sleeping on sweet potatoes because of that weird marshmallow Thanksgiving casserole? Same. But spicy, roasted, chili-soaked sweet potatoes are a whole new game.
Here’s what you’re going to need to make this:
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium onion chopped
1 Large Tomato diced
1 bell pepper chopped
3 cloves garlic minced
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp garlic powder
0.25 tsp cayenne pepper
0.5 tsp ancient fine sea salt
0.25 tsp Freshly ground black pepper
4 large sweet potatoes peeled and cubed into 1″ pieces
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 tbsp Parsley Freshly Chopped
1 lb. Italian sausage cooked
Directions:
In a large pot over medium heat, heat oil.
Add onion and bell pepper and cook until soft.
Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
Add tomato paste and stir until well-coated.
Add sausage and cook, breaking up meat with a wooden spoon until no longer pink. (or add in already cooked sausage)
Add chili powder, oregano, garlic powder, and cayenne, and season with salt and pepper
Add sweet potatoes, broth, and tomatoes, and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and let simmer, covered until sweet potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
Garnish with parsley before serving.
Spicy Superfood Chili
Here's a delicious recipe that is amazing right off the stove, and just as amazing as left-overs!
If this chili made you feel like a kitchen rockstar (or at least like someone who didn’t totally screw up dinner), sharing it helps me so much.
Whether you pin it, text it to your clean-eating bestie, or post it to your stories—every little share helps grow this blog and keeps the good recipes coming.
Thanks for supporting this spicy little corner of the internet. ❤️
This spicy sweet potato chili is just one of the clean, flavorful meals featured in my book, Eat Clean 21—a 21-day reset packed with recipes that don’t taste like sad diet food.
If you’re looking for a simple way to eat clean, feel better, and still enjoy your food (imagine that!), this book’s for you. 👉Grab your copy of Eat Clean 21 here.
Almost a year ago, I had a huge struggle with anxiety due to a never-ending series of traumatic events. Looking back now, I can see that what I struggled with was so much more than anxiety. It was my ADHD (racing thoughts and brain fog) mixed with a little PTSD (traumatic-event-related stress) topped off with depression and over a million ruminating thoughts that took control of my life. Now that’s a lot of acronyms, but to sum it all up, I was miserable! A dear friend of mine brought over a book about tapping. While I was extremely grateful to her for thinking of me and trying to help, I don’t think I was ready to heal yet. I wrongfully thought at the time that if I took steps toward healing, then it meant I had to become okay with what happened. I wasn’t okay. The book sat on the side table for the next few months as I sat in my misery.
We finally decided to take a trip as a family to Jamaica for some fun and healing. Knowing that I had several hours of driving, airports, and flying, I gathered up all of the self-help books that had been gifted to me! I spent all of our travel time reading each page word-for-word. I’ll later make a new post about the entire Jamaican healing journey and review the books I read. (Here are some of my travel stories) Tapping was the one that had the most significant and immediate effect. As I sat alone one morning on our balcony having coffee, a negative thought took hold and would not let go! I thought to myself, “Oh hell no, not here. Not in paradise!” I did about 5 minutes of a tapping technique, and I found INSTANT relief.
While this has not been the end-all, cure-all for me – it’s most defiantly a tool that has helped tremendously. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, dear friend!
Okay, So what the heck is “tapping?”
Not a new concept, but totally new to me (the book I read was actually published in 2008)! Better late than never!
Tapping, also known as Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), is a simple technique to alleviate trapped negative emotions. It involves using your fingertips to tap the body’s nine specific meridian points (energy points) while addressing your negative feelings, thoughts, memory, or emotions. Scientists and other professionals claim this process can release the negative energy connected to those thoughts, emotions, or memories. It has definitely helped me!
Here’s the specific technique I use:
I focus on my issue, such as a ruminating thought, bad memory, or simply being angry and hurt for something someone did to me. I rate the intensity of that negative feeling (this is important for later).
I try really hard to remember what I am grateful for and what I am capable of (this is difficult when I’m in a victim mindset, but I try my best to power through the hopelessness and find at least one thing that I know I’m capable of, or thankful for, or love about myself).
I then start tapping on my body’s meridian points (beginning with the karate chop point on the side of my hand).
While tapping the hand, I repeat what is known as the “setup phrase.” This phrase acknowledges the issue while simultaneously acknowledging what I’m thankful for. Here’s an example: “Even though I am experiencing the pain and trauma of (insert memory or thought) and I’m really angry, I deeply and completely accept myself and my feelings.” or “Even though (insert name) did (insert event) and it hurt me, I am beautiful and worthy of love.” A great ADHD example is: “Even though I lost track of time, I accept myself. I am unique and powerful!”
I then move on to each of my body’s meridian points as I state what is known as a “reminder phrase.” Example: “I am experiencing pain and trauma from this memory, but I can release the grief, and I can experience happiness. The meridian points include the top of the head, eyebrow, side of the eye, under the eye, under the nose, chin, collarbone, and under the arm. I repeat the reminder phrase several times with each meridian point.
I repeat the entire process 2-3 times.
I then rate the intensity of the emotion or thought again. If the intensity has not decreased, I begin the sequence again.
Sometimes I tap to address a painful memory, and sometimes it’s as simple as regaining focus on my work after a distraction. This technique doesn’t have to be used for only deep painful stuff. It can be everyday crap like “Even though my kids are climbing the wall and the laundry has piled up, I accept that I am a good mom.”
Resources:
I am so happy to have found this tool and the specific technique that has worked for me. To me, this technique is all about accepting things that you cannot change, releasing the negative energy connected to those things, and instilling a tremendous love for yourself. I cannot promise that tapping will work for you, but If you’re interested in learning more, here are some resources that I have found helpful:
The information I have provided in this article is of my own personal experience and is not meant as medical or mental health advice. I am not a doctor and I am not making claims that this tool will heal you or even work for you. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis please visit your nearest hospital or call 911.
If you or someone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) any time, day or night, or chat online. Their Crisis Text Line also provides free, 24/7, confidential support via text message to people in crisis when they dial 741741.
I am not affiliated with or paid by Gaia or the Tapping Solution Foundation, but I have included links to Amazon products that are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site at no additional cost to you. This helps fund my work and research. I appreciate your support!
This quinoa tabouli recipe is one of my family’s all-time meal prep winners. Whether you need a quick lunch, a hearty side dish, or a “just one bite” snack that turns into a full bowl—this one’s got you covered.
🌿 Why Mediterranean Cuisine Rocks
The Mediterranean diet is all about balance. It focuses on fresh, whole foods and a moderate intake of healthy fats—especially from olive oil, avocados, and nuts. It’s not about restriction. It’s about fueling your body with food that feels good and tastes even better.
Let’s set you up for success. You’ll need a few kitchen tools and some fresh ingredients:
Tools
A pressure cooker (I use my InstaPot)
A large bowl
One big airtight container or 2–4 small ones for grab-and-go storage
Ingredients
1 cup quinoa
2 cups filtered water
2 cups flat leaf parsley, chopped
1 can garbanzo beans (chickpeas), rinsed and drained
1 English cucumber, chopped
1 medium red onion, chopped or sliced
2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
½ cup olives, sliced
Juice of 1 large lemon
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
½ cup coconut aminos
1 tsp ancient fine sea salt (or to taste)
½ tsp ground black pepper (or to taste)
🔥 Cooking the Quinoa Like a Boss
Here’s where the InstaPot magic comes in. I love using it for quinoa because:
I don’t have to babysit it.
It gives the perfect fluffy texture every single time.
While the quinoa does its thing, you can chop, prep, and measure out the rest of the ingredients. By the time it’s done, everything’s ready to mix. Boom. Meal prep done faster than you can say “Mediterranean tabouli.”
🥣 Let’s Put It All Together
Step 1: Combine 1 cup quinoa with 2 cups filtered water in your pressure cooker. Step 2: Set to high pressure for 3 minutes. (Your pot may take 8–10 minutes to pressurize before the countdown starts.) Step 3: While the quinoa cooks, prep your veggies:
Rinse and drain your chickpeas.
Finely chop your parsley (trust me, big leaves are awkward in tabouli).
Chop the cucumber and red onion (I prefer slices, but go with your vibe).
Cut the grape tomatoes in half—bonus points if you use a rapid slicer (my favorite kitchen hack!).
Measure out your olives, olive oil, and coconut aminos.
Cut and squeeze the lemon, making sure to avoid those sneaky seeds.
Step 4: Once the quinoa’s finished cooking, let it naturally release steam for 10 minutes. Then, carefully release any remaining pressure and remove the lid.
Step 5: Add the quinoa to your bowl of veggies and stir until everything is perfectly combined.
Step 6: Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy all week long—up to 6 days of fresh, delicious goodness.
🎥 Wanna See It in Action?
If you’re a visual learner or just love a good before-and-after reel, check out the TikTok I made while whipping this up. 📲 I’ll embed the video right here so you can save it, share it, or just hit replay 47 times.
A peek inside my Eat Clean 21 program 👀 Quinoa Tabouli 1 Cup Quinoa (cooked and cooled) 2 Cups Flat Leaf Parsley (thinly sliced) 1 English Cucumber (chopped) 1 Medium Red Onion (sliced or diced) 2 Cups Cherry Tomatoes (halved) 1/2 Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil 1/4 Cup Coconut Aminos Sea Salt and Black Pepper To Taste Gently Toss and Enjoy!
Start by cooking the quinoa, I like to use my insta pot pressure cooker. You can do this ahead of time and place cooked quinoa in the refridgerator.
Add quinoa and water to the instapot and stir
1 Cup Quinoa, 2 Cups Filtered Water
Pressure cook quinoa on high for 3 minutes (this takes about 10 minutes total counting the time it takes the instapot to pressurize)
While quinoa is cooking, chop / slice the vegetables, and place all of the ingredients in a large bowl.
1 Can Garbanzo Beans (Chickpeas), 2 Cups Flat Leaf Parsley, 1 English Cucumber, 1 Medium Red Onion, 2 Cups Grape Tomatoes, 1 Large Lemon, 0.5 Cups Extra Virgin Olive Oil, 0.5 Cusp Coconut Aminos, 1 tsp Ancient Fine Sea Salt, 0.5 tsp Ground Black Pepper, 0.5 cup Olives
Once the timer goes off, allow the instapot to naturally release steam for about 10 minutew, then manually release any remaining pressure.
Once steam is released, carefully remove the lid.
Add the quinoa to the bowl full of ingredients and toss together until combined.
Serve warm, or place in an airtight container in the refrigerator and serve cold for up to 6 days.
Yep—this delicious, nutrient-packed recipe is straight out of my book, Eat Clean 21! If you’re ready to reset your eating habits and fuel your body with real, whole foods (without giving up flavor or fun), this book is your go-to guide.
Inside, you’ll find 21 days’ worth of clean meals, tips to beat the cravings, and easy recipes just like this one that support your energy, digestion, and focus.
If this recipe just upgraded your lunch game—share the love! 📌 Pin it, post it, or text it to your favorite food-prepping friend. Every time you share, you help keep this blog going and inspire others to eat better without the boring.
I am excited to announce the release of my latest book, “Eat Clean 21: A 21-Day Detox and Nutritional Cleanse.” The program was initially available as a digital download on this website. Clients who participated in the original version of this program had great results! They experienced weight loss, increased energy, clearer skin, and higher levels of cognitive functioning.
The new and improved program is published on Amazon as both paperback and Kindle!
The basis of my detox and nutritional philosophy remains the same: eat real food and nourish the body, do not starve it. Diets are usually a scam and/or an unsustainable way to make changes to your health. Many cleanse, diet, and detox programs on the market can leave you feeling miserable! The Eat Clean 21 program is not a die. It’s unlike any other cleanse. It’s a 21-day introduction to a clean, whole-food-eating way of life. With my program, there’s no calorie counting or fasting involved – just a focus on reconnecting with real, nourishing food. You’ll feel satisfied and energized throughout the 21-day program.
Anyone who wants to start or continue a healing journey! Whether you’re looking to reset your metabolism, kickstart your weight loss journey, improve your cognition, or heal your digestive system, the Eat Clean 21 can help! It’s one of the only cleanse programs that truly support your body’s needs without leaving you feeling hungry, moody, or deprived!
During the program, you will be eliminating some highly processed foods and toxic food groups, but you will be replacing those things with foods extremely high in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Clients who have participated in the program felt so full and nourished. As a result, they barely noticed they had eliminated anything! I even had a client state that they had difficulty eating junk food after the cleanse! Eventually, processed food just doesn’t taste good anymore!
We traded snow boots for flip flops and escaped to Moon Palace Jamaica in mid-January—and let me tell you, it was absolute paradise. Most of our days were spent parked on the beach, with Jerk Hut chicken in one hand and a frozen drink in the other. #NoRegrets
If you’re dreaming of a family vacation with beach time, incredible food, nonstop kid activities, and a little R&R for yourself, keep reading.
Where We Stayed 🛏️
Our Deluxe Resort View with Balcony at Moon Palace gave us a perfect peek at the beautiful resort while offering just enough space to wind down at night. The room was cozy, clean, and came with all the comforts you’d expect. But let’s be honest—the beach was the real star of the show. From the moment we arrived, it was clear this trip would be more about sand between our toes than splashing in the pool.
Days on the Beach ☀️
This time we skipped the pool—this trip was all about the beach life. While the kids played in the water all day long, we kicked back under the sun, enjoying ocean breezes and no responsibilities.
And the best part? Non-motorized water sports were included with our stay. The kids rotated between kayaking, paddleboarding, and the Hobie Cats (which they thought were the coolest things ever).
They also couldn’t get enough of the FlowRider® Double Wave Simulator, where they surfed, wiped out, and repeated that cycle for hours at a time.
Big Kid Energy at the Arcade 🎮
Every evening, the boys headed to Wired Lounge, the on-site arcade. It’s packed with console video games, fun challenges, and even snacks. Open from 9 a.m. to midnight, this place became their post-dinner hangout spot. And honestly, it gave us some much-needed adult downtime. Win-win.
Spa Time = My Time 💆♀️
The next morning, while they were off on a fishing excursion, I took full advantage of a rare solo moment. I snuck away for a morning of pure bliss. The Moon Palace Spa is heaven on earth. I booked a massage and hydrotherapy session, and it was next level.
✨ What is hydrotherapy? It’s a series of hot and cold plunges, saunas, steam rooms, and jet-powered pools designed to detox, relax your muscles, and reset your nervous system. It’s basically a spa circuit for the soul. Highly recommend.
Dining at Moon Palace 🍽️
We’re a foodie family, and Moon Palace did not disappoint. We tried almost everything and here are the standouts:
Jerk Hut: We ate here at least once per day. It’s casual, located near the beach, and serves traditional Jamaican jerk and other local favorites. So. Dang. Good.
Boulangerie: Our go-to for morning coffee and late-night ice cream. Open 24/7 and feels like a chic Parisian café.
Buccaneers Reef: The buffet—especially for breakfast—is where it’s at. You’ll want to try a little bit of everything.
Pier 8, Momo, and Gondola all brought their A-game too. From Caribbean grill to Asian fusion to Italian a la carte, there’s something for everyone.
Bonus Experience: Swimming with Dolphins 🐬
As if the food wasn’t enough to rave about, right next to the resort, you’ll find a dolphin encounter. We bought tickets in the main lobby and had a magical time swimming and interacting with dolphins in the ocean. Total highlight.
What to Pack for Moon Palace Jamaica 🧳
Don’t forget these travel essentials! (Affiliate links coming in hot 💸)
Water Shoes!!! (One of my kids DID get stung by a sea urchin) These are my go-to.
Beach Tote – Big enough for sunscreen, towels, water, books, etc. The resort is a little walk away. You’ll want to be prepared. I love this waterproof tote!
Please Share This Post 💌
Now that you’re packed and ready to go, if this Moon Palace Jamaica review made your daydreams even stronger…Share it, pin it, or send it to your group chat. Every click, share, and comment helps my little blog grow—and helps more families plan amazing vacations. Thanks for the support!
