Why did you start your blog?
I started this blog to share my story and to help others find happiness and success in eating a clean, healthy, unprocessed diet. It took me a long time to gain the knowledge to change my diet, and I want to share this continuously growing wealth of knowledge with all of you. I was frustrated with all the half-truth information on health the media gives to the public, so I wanted to create a place that others, like me, could find the best information we need to look after ourselves. Many friends and family members noticed how my eating habits changed me (inside and outside) and they were always asking me what I was eating. I was constantly writing down my recipes for people. I realized that writing a blog would be an easier way for me to spread my knowledge and recipes to everyone!
When did you start Nikki's Plate?
I started my blog May 2015. Still a work in progress!
What is your education?
I am currently in my fourth year of my Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. In my nursing education, we learn a lot about how the body works and what the body needs to be healthy. I have studied nutrition as an elective but my knowledge behind my eating habits really came from personally exploring what works best for me. I found that my university studies gave me the foundation I needed for my personal lifestyle. I have done tons of research on gluten free and dairy free dieting as well as eating unprocessed whole foods. My knowledge is always growing and I will continue to spread it to each of you! I usually throw in health facts to each of my recipes, but that may just be the nurse in me!
How did you learn to cook?
Practice! I was the worst cook ever before I change my eating habits. I had mastered how to make Kraft Dinner but thats about it. I asked my dad tons of questions because he loves to cook. He gave me tons of great advice and tips when I was struggling. Cooking became a passion of mine and something I strive to improve each day. I love being artistic with it and enjoy the endless possibilities.
What is your food philosophy?
"Eat Healthy, Live Happy". I am still in shock at how eating the way I did changed my life. I am happier then I have ever been. I have more energy, I am more confident on the outside and the inside and stress does not run my life anymore. Eating healthy truly made me happier. I will never go back to the bad eating habits I had. My diet is not just a diet anymore... it is my lifestyle.
What is your typical meal day?
I usually start everyday with overnight oats or a pancake. I have a snack about 2-3 hours later. My snacks are usually some hummus and veggies, homemade granola or protein bars, or a homemade muffin. About 2 hours later I have brown rice with veggies and a protein. Then 3 hours later I will have another snack and finish the day with a dinner of a protein and lots of veggies. I usually get a sweet tooth after dinner so I will have homemade dark chocolate or medjool dates with almond butter on them. YUM
What ingredient can you not live without?
I would probably have to say coconut oil! So delicious and so many ways to use it.
What sugars do you use in your recipes?
I do not used refined or processed sugars. I use a lot of pure maple syrup - because.. well I am Canadian and it is easy to come across here and its down right delicious! I use medjool dates a lot too. I use honey, pure coconut sugar or agave syrup sometimes as well.
What oils do you cook with?
I use coconut oil a lot because of the many health benefits and of course the amazing taste! I will occasionally use extra virgin olive oil if I don't want the coconut taste in a recipe.
