Healthy Brunch Recipes to Try this Weekend

On the weekend, you have more time to cook a big breakfast — or brunch! If you and your friends or family enjoy having a late, leisurely brunch, these healthy recipes make delightful options:

Baked French Toast Fritters With Apples and Bananas
The addition of fruit makes this recipe the perfect combination of nutritious and decadent. Using whole-wheat bread instead of carb-heavy white helps you stay on track with your diet, while peanut butter and fruits are sweet substitutes for the usual maple syrup.

Pita Pizzas
For those who enjoy a more savory taste for brunch, these pita pizzas are fast, simple to make, and incredibly tasty. Using grilled chicken, whole-wheat pitas and a few other common ingredients, you can create a filling meal that guests of all ages will love.

Tuna and Avocado Cobb Salad
Avocado is a nice addition to just about any brunch dish, and this Cobb salad combines it with protein-rich tuna for a fresh, healthy meal.  The usual heavy Cobb dressing gets a makeover with lemon, lime, honey and olive oil, and the whole thing equals just 224 calories.

To browse even more healthy brunch recipes, visit the NIH website here.

Austin Nature and Science Center: Expand Your Mind

Situated on the western boundary of Zilker Park, the Austin Nature and Science Center offers a fun opportunity to delve into the fascinating natural world. The wild animal exhibits feature a variety of animals that have been orphaned or injured and can no longer live in the wild, like owls, hawks and other raptors, as well as reptiles and mammals. The Dino Pit is always a hit with kids, allowing them to become miniature paleontologists while digging for bones in a giant sand pit that’s outfitted with shovels, rakes and buckets. The butterfly exhibit lets you view the beautiful flutterers in a lovely habitat. The center offers a variety of programs for kids, adults and families. They also run kid’s camps during school breaks.

Open every day with free admission.

Austin Nature and Science Center
301 Nature Center Drive
Austin, TX 78746
(512) 974-3888
http://www.yelp.com/biz/austin-nature-and-science-center-austin-2

Sip Coffee With a Cause at Dominican Joe

Dominican Joe is an independently-owned coffee shop located on the intersection of Riverside and South Congress. As the name suggests, this shop serves coffee farmed in the Dominican Republic. Not only is this java ecologically friendly and delicious, but it also helps support farmers who are trying to lift themselves out of a devastated economy. Dominican Joe doesn't stop there. Using the profits from the store, Dominican Joe helps support Makarios, a non-profit that helps educate impoverished children.

The cafe also serves pastries, plus lunch and breakfast items sourced from local eateries. You can even order a thick yogurt based smoothie made with healthy ingredients, like berries and peaches. Free Wi-Fi is offered.

Dominican Joe
515 South Congress Avenue
Austin, TX 78704
(512) 448-3919
http://www.dominicanjoe.com/
http://www.yelp.com/biz/dominican-joe-austin

Happy New Year!

Wishing everyone a happy and healthy 2014!

Expect Local Fare and Craft Beers at Snack Bar

Right off South Congress is Snack Bar, an intimate eatery serving up some delicious organic, local fare. Self-described as "indie", Snack Bar proudly boasts an authentic Austin vibe, from the local food to the Texas craft beers.

Here, meats and eggs are hormone free, humanely treated, and raised on pastures. The menu is healthy and offers plenty of vegan and gluten free options. Try the fried eggs with leek, cabbage, shrimp, and bacon, or go for the bagel topped with salmon, cream cheese, and dill. Other entrees include the avocado quinoa with pineapples and banana peppers, braised lamb with couscous and dates, and the goat tostadas with avocado and pico de gallo.

Wash everything down with local craft beers from Lone Star and Fireman's #4 to Wytchmaker and Scratchin' Hippo. Regulars love the relaxing atmosphere, outdoor fire, and the dog-friendly policy at Snack Bar.

Snack Bar
1224 South Congress Avenue
Austin, TX 78704
(512) 445-2626
http://snackbaraustin.com/
http://www.yelp.com/biz/snack-bar-austin

Congratulations

Plan a Getaway to These Top 5 Beaches

Daydreaming about a tropical beach getaway ? If you find your mind wandering to some sandy, sunny resort, stop dreaming and start planning! Your next trip could be to one of the top five beaches in the world. 

Rabbit Beach
Italy may be known for museums, pasta, and pizza, but have you ever thought about the beaches? In Lampedusa, Italy, you'll find one of the world's most beautiful beaches. You'll never want to leave after seeing the crystal clear water and sparkling sand of this secluded beach.

Grace Bay
It's easy to see why the Turks and Caicos Islands are such a popular resort location. The beaches do get crowded, but that's because they are some of the best in the world. Relax in the sand, float on the gentle waves, or explore the sea with snorkeling gear. The waters are crystal clear, so you can see all the wonderful sea life at the bottom. 

Matira Beach
You may be shocked by the beauty of this amazing tropical location, but don't let that stop you from participating in all the great activities. Watch a sunset on the beach or explore on one of the scenic hiking trails. Several boutiques and eateries are nearby. 

Hanalei Bay
You don't even have to leave the United States to enjoy a tropical location, thanks to the beautiful beaches in Hawaii. Hanalei Bay is one of the best on the island. Surfers and paddle boarders will love the ocean. If you're looking to just relax on the beach, the picturesque mountains in the background are sure to please. 

Playa Paraiso Beach
This natural beach in Cayo Largo Cuba is free of any hotels or resorts. It's named "paradise beach" for a reason. The shallow waters are great for long walks on the beach with the waves lapping at your feet. Get to the beach early to secure a seat and umbrella.

Public Domain/Public Domain

Pick Up Flowers, Cookies, and a Sandwich at Walton’s Fancy and Staple

What do macaroons, a deli, flowers, and Sandra Bullock have in common? They can all be found at Walton's Fancy and Staple in Austin. This charming cafe serves made-to-order deli sandwiches and is filled with fresh made pastries, cakes, and cookies. Stop by during lunch and try the customer favorite "Turkey Sweet," a turkey sandwich with applewood smoked bacon, caramelized onions, apples, and white cheddar on a croissant.

Walton's also offers a small breakfast menu. Don't miss the challah French toast, made with a creme brulee batter and topped with fresh berries and real maple syrup! Grab several sweets to take home and a bunch of fresh flowers to cheer up your space. Although it's a casual spot with counter service, the space is full of charm with antique warehouse decor crossed with Parisian cafe elements.

Walton's Fancy and Staple
609 W Sixth Street
Austin, TX 78701
(512) 542-3380
www.waltonsfancyandstaple.com
www.yelp.com/biz/waltons-fancy-and-staple-austin

Season’s Greetings!

Wishing everyone a happy and safe holiday season with all the warmth and splendor this time of year has to offer. Happy Holidays!

Gourdough’s: Delightful Donuts

Ready to fall in love with a big, freshly baked donut heaped with creatively decadent toppings? Head to Gourdough’s, where the motto is, ‘Big. Fat. Donuts.’ Fans flock to the shiny silver aluminum trailer in South Austin to indulge. Maybe that’s because these donuts are handmade, fried fresh to order and served hot. Combine that with creative toppings and fillings, not to mention the fun, funky names, and you’ve got a winning combination. 23 flavors include Cherry Bombs – donut holes topped with glazed cherries, cinnamon sugar & sprinkled with cake mix, Flying Pig – donut topped with bacon & maple syrup icing, Baby Rattler – topped with crumbled fudge Oreos, fudge icing and a gummy rattlesnake, and much much more!

Gourdough's
1503 S. 1st Street
Austin, TX 78704
(512) 707-1050
http://www.gourdoughs.com/
http://www.yelp.com/biz/gourdoughs-austin

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