Exclusive Interview with Aubrey of italktofood

Aubrey King is the vibrant author of italktofood, a blog discussing everything from culinary school, weekend adventures, and living a healthy and full life. Everything from her colorful salads to birthday cake popcorn are drool (and pinterest) worthy. Her passion for life, food, and balance are so apparent throughout her daily posts, I love when she pops up in my Google Reader!

 

How did you get interested in food and blogging?

A: In 6^th grade I began taking notice of the unhealthy lunches served at school and began packing my lunch instead. I brought yogurt and salads, and began to get creative in the kitchen, finding that I preferred the healthier foods. As I got older, I have become so thankful I started eating this way when I was young. In high school, I was in an outdoor club and loved the healthy lifestyle they promoted.

It was not until I began culinary school at age 20 that I discovered blogs like KERF and HTP. Once I discovered the blogging community and had free time during school, I began writing a blog, but very loosely. During a four month stint at a restaurant, I blogged everyday.

 

What is your food philosophy?

A: Simply put, balance. I feel better eating less processed foods, those that are fresh and colorful. As a culinary student I see where my food comes from, so I choose natural, whole foods and simple ingredients because my body runs better on them.

 

Why culinary school?

A: I actually started school at the University of Nevada Reno studying Dietetics, but quickly realized that I was more interested in food than the process to becoming an Registered Dietitian. After looking for a culinary school that offered a bachelors degree, I transferred to the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY. (She wrote a great post all about it here.)

 

What is your college experience like at the CIA?

A: Our school has 2800 students, with one huge building so it’s not exactly a campus. They have a great gym and pool, and offer intramural sports. There are clubs for every food-related interest—everything from brewing beer to making salami.  The CIA is strict, the students have to wear business casual daily and attend every single class (or you get dropped). The food is totally different; they do not have a food court. Instead, the food the classes prepare is available to eat, so choices can change daily.

 

Living in a dorm, what are your favorite meals?

A: With just a mini fridge, I keep natural crunchy peanut butter, Chobani yogurt, fresh vegetables, and oatmeal on hand. The school offers a free salad bar, which I eat at daily, as well as one meal that the students have prepared. My weekends tend to be more indulgent.

What are your plans for the future?

A: My boyfriend and I have the same goal of owning a farm one day. I dream of having a restaurant as well, cooking the vegetables and animals we raise. Our food would be freshly harvested and the menu would change adapting to whatever foods are in season. I am already educating myself on how to start one, and believe there is so much satisfaction in knowing that you grew something and cooked it yourself. Things taste better from farm to table, and I would be so happy doing that when I graduate.

 

Check out Aubrey’s blog and follow her on Twitter to see her delicious recipes, impressive workouts, and tales of love and her unique college experience!

 

Claire Brooks-Schulke is a Health Writer for College Lifestyles. She likes tea, spin class, and reading healthy living blogs.

Intern Kitchen: A Peak Into a Nutrition Major’s Lab

The life of Nutrition majors is not just cooking and eating delicious food; however, the few classes in which we get to do so are a welcomed break from Organic Chemistry and Microbiology. This quarter, I am taking a class discussing principles involved in the selection, purchase, and preparation of foods through the eyes of a consumer. We plan, cook, and serve meals with emphasis on diet restrictions, budget constraints, cultural preferences, and nutritional aspects.

Each week in lab the professor and TA select their favorite meal based on taste, presentation and creativity—and my group was selected. Our breakfast consisted of blueberry bran muffins, a broccoli and mushroom quiche, and a tropical smoothie topped with granola.  Having friends over for brunch? Try these recipes to impress your guests!

 Blueberry Bran Muffins (adapted from yummly.com)

1 ½ cups oat bran

1 cup nonfat milk

½ cup unsweetened applesauce

1 egg

2/3 cup brown sugar

½ tsp vanilla extract

½ cup all-purpose flour

½ cup wheat flour

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp baking powder

½ tsp salt

2 cup blueberries (We used frozen)

Mix together bran and milk, let stand for 10 minutes. Mix applesauce, egg, brown sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl. In a larger bowl combine flour, wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Stir wet and dry ingredients until combined—avoid overmixing! Gently fold in blueberries. Scoop into muffin cups.

Bake in 375° oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until tops spring back when lightly tapped.

Broccoli & Mushroom Quiche (Adapted from allrecipes.com)

2 tablespoons butter

1 onion, minced

2 cloves minced garlic

2 cups chopped fresh broccoli

1 ½ cups chopped mushrooms (We used baby portabella)

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

4 eggs, well ebaten

1 ½ cups milk

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon butter, melted

 

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Over medium-low heat melt butter in a large saucepan. Add onions, garlic and broccoli. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are soft. Spoon vegetables into crust (see recipe below) and sprinkle with cheese.
3. Combine eggs and milk. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in melted butter. Pour egg mixture over vegetables and cheese.
4. Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until center has set.

Butter Pie Crust (from Bon Appetit)

1 ¼ cup all purpose flour

2 tsp sugar

1/3 tsp salt

½ cup (1 stick) chilled unsalted butter, cut into cubes

3 tablespoons ice water

Mix flour, sugar, and salt in processor.  Add butter; pulse until coarse meal forms. Gradually blend in enough ice water to form moist clumps. Gather dough into ball and chill for an hour. Roll out and place in pie pan.  Bake for 10 minutes prior to putting filling in to prevent sogginess of the crust.

 Mango-Pineapple Smoothie Bowl

4 cups fresh squeezed orange juice (We used oranges from my parents tree!)

3 cups fresh diced pineapple

3 cups frozen mango

Blend

Granola

(Adapted from peasandthankyou.com)

2 ¼ c. old fashioned oats

¾ c almonds, roughly chopped

1.2 t. salt

3 T brown sugar

3 T honey

2 T oil

Preheat oven to 250° degrees

Combine oats, almonds and salt in a large bowl.

In a smaller bowl, combine brown sugar, honey, and oil.

Pour wet ingredients on top of dry and stir until evenly coated.

Spread granola mix on a baking sheet topped with parchment paper. Stir every 15 minutes to ensure even toasting.

Est cook time: 1 hour.

 

Claire Brooks-Schulke is a Health & Sorority Writer for College Lifestyles. She loves sundresses, spin class, tea, and going to bed early. 

Train Like a Tribute: Hunger Games Inspired Workouts

Unless you’ve been living under a rock (or disguised as one like Peeta), you’ve probably been exposed to the phenomena The Hunger Games . From the trilogy holding the number one spot on Amazon for months to the movie’s premiere being the third most successful release ever, The Hunger Games is quickly becoming “the next big thing.” Katniss’s character is captivating—she is strong, courageous, and fans easily fall in love with her. In a recent interview with Self Magazine, Jennifer Lawrence shares that her physical conditioning for the role focused on balance, strength and agility to prepare for the roll of Katniss.  Want to spice up your own workout routine? Channel your inner tribute and try these Hunger Games-esque workouts without the bloodshed and starvation.

Trail Running

Katniss spends plenty of time running (and sometimes tumbling) around the forest. Taking your run from the treadmill to the trail challenges your body’s balance, feels better on your joints, and is a wonderful way to enjoy the spring weather and flowers.

 Body Combat

Actual person on person combat may risk physical injury, but a fun class like kickboxing, Body Attack, or a Turbo Jam DVD will still give you ample time to practice your punches and release your pent up stress and anger.

 Kettlebells

This recent fitness craze is a more practical way to build functional strength than lifting 100 pound bags of flour over your head like Peeta. Check out Ellen’s article to learn more about them!

 Archery

Haven’t picked up a bow and arrow since summer camp growing up? Practice intense focus and channel your inner-Katniss at a local range. Not accessible? Look for U.S. archer Khatuna Lorig in the Olympics this summer who trained Jennifer Lawrence to shoot. In an interview with NPR, Lorig states, “Once you start shooting, you’re gonna like it… Come on, how can you not like archery? You have to be physically strong, and you have to be mentally strong. So what else do you need in your life?”  Lorig’s comment definitely resonates with Katniss fans awed by her determination, strength, and passion.

 

Can’t get enough of The Hunger Games? College Lifestyles has our review of the movie, thoughts on Catching Fire, and style inspiration!

 

Claire Brooks-Schulke is a Health & Sorority writer for College Lifestyles. She is a huge Hunger Games fan and loves the strength Katniss possesses. 

 

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How to “Heart” Your Heart

Conversation hearts. Heart jewelry. Broken hearts. Whether you are head over heels in love or a strong supporter of Singles Awareness Day, February undeniably has a focus on hearts. Unfortunately, more can be wrong with a heart than it solely being lonely or broken. According to the American Heart Association, Heart Disease is the number one killer of women. More women die from heart disease than all forms of cancer combined; therefore, we all can benefit from being more aware and taking preventative measures.

 Move More

Spending an hour every day at the gym is not always possible, enjoyable, or reasonable. However, quality workouts combined with moderate exercise (like walking around campus) can be achieved and contribute to a healthier lifestyle overall. The AMA recommends a minimum of 30 minutes of movement 5 days a week. College Lifestyles recommends cross fit, 2012’s fitness crazes, and fitness apps on your iPhone.

Eat Mindfully

A well-rounded diet positively impacts almost every aspect of your life. It fuels your brain and body, boosts your immune system, and helps prevent chronic diseases. Consume a diet with heart-healthy whole grains, various fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats (like olive oil and almonds). Of 25 top heart healthy foods, CL loves oatmeal, blueberries, sweet potatoes and tea!

 

Stress Less

Stress can take a serious toll on your body– headaches, exhaustion, and becoming over-emotional. It is unavoidable during college, but developing coping mechanisms and ways to release it will be beneficial in the long run. Making yourself a priority is crucial– slow down, take part in positive self-talk, and spend time doing something you enjoy.  Yoga is a great way to unwind, loosen up tense muscles, and focus on you.

 

Talk to you Doctor

It is advised that everyone has a yearly checkup, and if you haven’t had one in awhile, swing by your University’s Health Center or your regular doctor next time you’re home. Cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar are rarely on a college student’s radar, yet it is still important to be aware now. A simple blood test and blood pressure check allow you to gain insight on your health.

 

Claire Brooks-Schulke is a Health & Sorority Writer for College Lifestyles. After having heart issues she became much more aware of how to take care of her health and always wears a heart rate monitor to gauge her exertion during exercise and stay in safe ranges. 

Balancing Greek Life and College Life

It is no secret CL loves Greek Life. Our CEO is currently the National Vice President for Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority and over a dozen of our interns proudly wear letters. We understand there is a fine line in a savvy co-ed’s life between making the most of being in a house and having no life outside of it. From socials to philanthropy, dinners to meetings, there is always something to do or a sister to see. As great as being Greek is, chances are you have friends and a life outside of your sorority. Here are a few ways to make the most of your Greek experience without having it encompass your life.

Don’t feel the need to go to everything

Sororities give you an opportunity to do something almost daily—our calendars are packed with dozens of events a month. For new members, it is easy to feel overwhelmed with all the activities. It is ok to pick and choose what you want to go to—there are some socials, philanthropies, and events at the house that you may not be interested. Don’t go! Spend that time with your friends outside of your sorority, studying, or purely having time for yourself.

 

 

But don’t just go to mandatory events

Meetings, initiation, and various other chapter events are non-negotiable; however, these events are not what will make your college experience memorable. Sharing ritual and secrets with your sisters is great, but it is important to utilize the social opportunities for your benefit. You have access to so many fun events non-Greeks miss out on—so take advantage of them! Older sisters in your house are a great resource for advice of all kinds; seek their expertise on boys, classes, jobs, and housing.

 

 

Balance is key

Ultimately, like everything else in college, it comes down to balance. Our lives are a whirlwind and prioritizing is crucial. Undergrad years are so much more than just school, and being Greek provides a plethora of great opportunities. The Panhellenic Creed says it best—that we, as undergraduate members of women’s fraternities, stand for good scholarship, for maintenance of fine standards, and for service through the development of character inspired by the close contact and deep friendship of individual fraternity and Panhellenic life. When life gets overwhelming, take a step back and reevaluate what is important to you. Your sisters will always be there, even if you don’t make it to every event offered.

 

 

Claire Brooks-Schulke is a Health & Sorority writer and a proud member of Chi Omega. She tries to maintain a healthy balance of school, Greek life, outside friends, and herself and succeeds by using her planner and being realistic about time management.

 

 

 

 

4 Different and Delicious Ways to Use Oatmeal

College Lifestyles really, really, really loves oatmeal– but sometimes oatmeal can be a little bland. Sure, it is inexpensive, easy to make, and healthy (full of fiber and whole grains) but its plain flavor can grow old fast. Traditionally, it is eaten topped with berries, bananas, or brown sugar, but there are even more ways to use standard rolled oats. Savory Oats Source Liv(e) Love Laugh Sounds a little scary, right? Just think of oats like you would another grain! They don’t need to be reserved just for a bowl with brown sugar in the morning. Cook oats in water, milk or broth and add in any combination of cheese, vegetables, spices, and protein (meat, beans, tofu). CL recommends Liv(e) Love Laugh’s recipe. Transition oatmeal from your traditional breakfast food to meals after 11 AM. Smoothies and Shakes Source My Body Zone Soak a half-cup of raw oats in milk overnight and add into your favorite smoothie. A combination of Greek yogurt, fruit, ice, oats and your choice of liquid create a satisfying meal. Muesli Mix Want to feel like you are eating breakfast in Europe? Forget tiny cups of coffee and pastries; try this delicious staple! Muesli is simply a combination of raw oats, nuts, and dried fruit, typically mixed with yogurt or milk. You can purchase muesli in most supermarkets or easily make your own. Mixing the muesli with yogurt the night before and letting it sit overnight will create a smooth, chewy consistency and a perfect breakfast to grab on your way out the door. Oat Flour Source Happy Herbivore Oat flour is a gluten free option adding a rich, nutty flavor to baked goods. You can make your own by placing  raw oats into a food processor or purchase a bag right next to your traditional wheat flour. It may take a little trial and error to achieve baking success, since it acts slightly different than white flour. Check out Happy Herbivore for successful recipes!                                             Claire Brooks-Schulke is a Health & Sorority Writer for College Lifestyles. She ate a bowl of oatmeal while writing this as inspiration and loves making muffins with oat flour.

Working Out On Your Period: Here’s Why You Should Sweat

If you’re feeling bloated, emotional, and having cramps we understand that the last thing you want to do is throw on spandex and crank out some sprints. Yoga pants, frozen yogurt, and Gossip Girl are just so much more appealing, right? Working out through your period may actually help you breeze through your time of the month. You can reduce bloat, get flooded with endorphins, and relax the muscles causing cramps. Here is how to sweat it out with minimal discomfort.

 

Take the stairs

Sometimes, we just really need to avoid that bounce running gives us. Try the stair climber! A ridiculously good workout that your backside will appreciate (as will your boobs). It is perfect for reading a magazine, doing a few intervals, and getting all hot and sweaty.

 

Work on those Abs

A little advice my mom gave me in high school that sounds completely counterintuitive. Doing sit-ups actually helps reduce cramps, because the contraction and release of your muscles will ease the pain and discomfort.

 

Stretch it out

Yoga has amazing health benefits no matter what the time of the month. This may not be the time to try Bikram, but a gentle flow class or even a few poses on your own will work wonders. Deep breathing has been shown to help balance your mood and some poses will relieve cramps.

Try bow pose:

 

As moody and uncomfortable as your period may cause you to feel from time to time, the rush of endorphins and the relaxation of your muscles and mind will pay off.

 

Claire Brooks-Schulke loves spin class, lifting weights, and putting chocolate covered espresso beans on her frozen yogurt. She giggles every time she thinks of Ashton Kutcher referencing women’s periods in No Strings Attached.

CL’s Latest & Greatest: Spring Intern Claire Brooks-Schulke

 

 

 

Name: Claire Brooks-Schulke

 

School: Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and I just returned after studying abroad in Switzerland!

 

Major: Nutrition; Minor: Psychology

 

Year in studies: Second

 

I have been with College Lifestyles since: December 2011

 

Greek Affiliation: Chi Omega

Organizational Involvement: Campus Crusade, Hall Council, Nutrition Club, Study Abroad

 

Pets: Jack the dog

My friends say I am: Tenacious, adventurous, dependable, caring, trustworthy, confident in my opinions and self, that person who makes things fun, motivated, relational, joyful, energetic, passionate, and dedicated. (I had to ask them, and apparently they think highly of me!)

 

Astrological sign: Leo

 

My personal style is: California-esque. I’m usually either in a sundress or workout clothes

 

Favorite clothing stores: Nordstrom, Roxy, The Gap

 

Favorite book/author: Jodi Picoult, and I’m currently obsessed with The Hunger Games

 

Favorite quote: The most important thing in life is to learn how to give out love, and how to let it come in. ~Morrie Schwartz

 

My screensaver is:

 

On my IPod you will find: Everything from Jason Aldean, Tyrone Wells, Dev, Jimmy Eat World to Macklemore

 

Must have beauty product: Biore Skin Preservation Dual Fusion Moisturizer. It has SPF 30 in it and I wear it every day!

 

I have a slight obsession with: Currently—tea, The Hunger Games, kickboxing, my Google Reader

 

I dislike: Weather extremes & wearing pants and shoes.

 

Last movie I watched: We Bought A Zoo

 

Last book I read: Mockingjay

 

My definition of a classy co-ed: A classy co-ed is tasteful & appropriate, someone worth respecting.

 

Why I am excited about being an intern with College Lifestyles: The whole reason I got involved with CL was because I thought Shelly sounded like a grown-up version of myself. I am thrilled to work with ambitious, intelligent, and classy women.