Not interested in learning a TikTok dance? That’s ok, because it’s all about fun recipes when I use this app!! I have learned so many food hacks and mouth-watering creations from TikTok over the last bunch of months and they are very user friendly (you do not have to be a chef to create any of these). There are millions of #foodhacks videos featuring meal-prep shortcuts, simple ingredients and healthy options guaranteed to save you tons of time. 

TikTok has really ended up the place for the most innovative recipe ideas and cooking hacks. My advice in short: if you’re not already on the social platform, you should be!

Here are 3 of my faves that I found inspiration for on TikTok that I have also created my own videos for – you can find the recipes there. I have a sweet treat, a socially distanced party And the great news- they are healthy and easy to make!

1.) Dark Chocolate Coconut Oil Fudge

This fudge is different from regular fudge in the fact that it is much lower in sugar (and uses more natural sources of sweetener), is totally dairy-free and vegan, and is packed with healthy fats thanks to a good chunk of coconut oil. Coconut Oil is a great dairy free and gluten free healthy swap. Both are pantry staples that are so versatile – so many Tik Tok favourites agree! Coconut does not only lend an amazing taste and creamy texture but so nutritious – ideal healthy fat – filled with fibre, MCTs and antioxidants. This freezer fudge also only has 5 ingredients! 

• 1/2 cup melted coconut oil
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Unsweetened shredded coconut, for garnish

Whisk all ingredients together until they are super smooth – I pour the mixture into lined muffin tins and freeze for an hour. I like to cut mine in half so I get 12 servings

2.) Apple Nachos

Ready in under 5 minutes, apple nachos make a great snack, breakfast or light lunch. They are a well loved classic loved by kids and adults alike!

Apple nachos are an easy way to get in a good dose of protein too, easily giving you about 8 grams for every 2 tablespoons of nut butter you use. Not too bad at all!

Gather some of your favorite apples and get ready to enjoy a simple, healthy and delicious treat. They are naturally vegan, gluten free & grain free!

2-4 apples of choice depending on if you’re sharing!

Toppings:

• 1/4 – 1/3 cup natural nut butter (peanut, almond, sunflower, etc.)
• small handful chocolate chips 
• small handful shredded coconut
• small handful slivered almonds
• sprinkle of cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions

Apples: Wash, core and cut your apples into 1/4 inch slices. I like to cut mine into quarters, take a small paring knife and carefully remove the core and upper and lower end where dirt may still be collected (even after washing). Lay apple quarters on a flat surface with the inside of the apple facing up, carefully slice your apple into 1/4 inch slices, even 1/2 inch slices is good too. Whatever thickness you prefer, no rules here! Place apple slices in a small bowl with the lemon juice, toss to coat (this will stop them from browning)

Nut butter: Heat your nut butter just until warmed and somewhat runny, it should be warm enough to drizzle. Stove top or warm in the microwave for 20 – 30 seconds.

Assemble: On a serving plate, lay your apple slices in a single layer around the outside edge, then layer another small layer over those but towards the inside center of the plate. Drizzle the nut butter in a circular motion, from the middle of the plate to the outside edge. You can also just zig-zag the butter from one side to the other if you like. Again, no rules – just do what you feel is best! Top with chocolate chips, coconut flakes, almonds and sprinkle of cinnamon (or whatever you’ve chosen to use as your toppings).

Serves one generously, or two as a small plate.

Enjoy this simple yet delicious treat!

3.) Deconstructed Sushi Bowls

After many failed sushi roll attempts I was over the moon when I came across this idea on TikTok! All of the best parts of the sushi rolls I love simply put in a deconstructed “SUSHI” bowl, yes please!

I always love making a large batch of brown rice for the week to use for meals and this has been one of my favorite “hacks” to play with for lunch and dinner, the bonus is you can also keep it veggie if you like and the simplicity of it is mind blowing!

This is a great pre or post-workout meal, it’s filling but I never feel weighed down. This deconstructed sushi roll salad is quickly and easily assembled with leftover brown rice. Highlighted with Japanese-inspired textures and flavors, it offers a fresh perspective on the definition of salad. Great for lunches and or dinner, this all-in-one bowl is not only pleasing to the eye, but the stomach too.

A salad version of a deconstructed sushi roll, this dish is quickly assembled with leftover brown rice and simple things like avocados, cucumber & shrimp. 

Dressing:

• 2 tbsp (30 mL)pickling liquid from jarred pickled ginger
• 2 tbsp (30 mL)seasoned rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp (15 mL)toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Salad:

• 1 cup (250 mL)cooked, U.S. short grain brown rice
• 1/2 lb (250 g)cooked shrimp or sliced crab (Pollock) or salmon or tuna
• 1 avocado, peeled and sliced
• cucumber slices
• 1/4 cup (50 mL)wasabi peas (optional)
• 1/4 cup (50 mL)crumbed or sliced nori (roasted seaweed)

Directions

• In a small bowl, whisk together ginger pickling liquid, vinegar and sesame seeds. Set aside.
• In two small bowls, divide rice. Arrange seafood or fish, avocado and cucumber slices decoratively over rice. Drizzle dressing over each.
• Top with wasabi peas and nori.

We all want to stretch our dollars as much as we can, and a really easy way to do that is to buy pieces for our wardrobe that are multi-seasonal. You won’t need to pack away your summer clothing with some simple styling tricks that will take your favorite sunny day basics into Fall! The exciting news is that you can have a super stylish & functional wardrobe without having to break the bank.

The key is to create a base with great staple pieces like denim, leggings and tees that you can mix and match in a variety of ways. Putting a new seasonal wardrobe together can take a bit of time, but don’t panic, Natalie Sexton, fashion & lifestyle expert says you don’t need to get everything all at once! Here are more fashion tips from her:

The Sweatsuit! 2020 is definitely the year of comfy clothes, and matching sweatsuits have been flooding our Instagram feed! – There are so many fun options out there from tie dye to floral to bright colors or you can keep it simple with neutral hues too. This 2 piece sweatsuit came in under $30 so why not pick up a few to mix and match!

Soft Pants! A great option to still be comfy, especially sitting at a desk for long periods of time. Look for warm neutrals like khaki and details like drawstring waist or paper bag waist which is also very on trend this season! Cotton and jersey knits are lightweight and breathable, you still have the comfort of pj’s. There is something to be said about getting dressed and ready every morning, even if your work or studies are at home. It sets the tone for your day and helps create routine and good habits to being productive & successful!

The Cardigan! I am so excited that The Cardigan is the must-have sweater of 2020, for many reasons!  These are cozier than blazers, while still being a bit more elevated than a hoodie, allowing you to comfortably sit between casual and dressy! They come in a range of colors and materials, so you’re taken care of whether you prefer pattern, lightweight ribbing or a wool knit. AND It’s usually thick enough to take the place of a light jacket for the first couple months of Fall. This is a must have layer – pick up a few in different weights, and for styling options choose a neutral go-to and a fun pattern to mix it up. 

For more from Natalie, visit her Instagram.

You don’t have to be famous to rock these trendy styles! Natalie Sexton, fashion & lifestyle expert shows us how you can try the latest summer outerwear looks your favorite celebrities are wearing for yourself. Here’s more from her:

Two major trends we are seeing straight from the celebs are modern raincoats & 80’s/90’s windbreakers!

This 80’s/90’s trend is back and better than ever! All of the fashion girls are wearing them all over Instagram. This classic item of fashion is starting to move past the trend category and into a staple must-have for your closet. You can either choose a bold color and really make a statement with your look or you can go simple with a more neutral black or blue to keep the look sporty but still classic. Given that these ‘90s jackets are so light and breathable, you can use them as your final layer on top of a sweater, a tank, and a tee-shirt combination. You can also tie it around your waist if you’re trying to keep in line with that ‘90s theme, because yes, this look is back in a big way.

Even though the temps are rising we still have our rainy days and cooler mornings & evenings that we need an extra layer for. Waterproof Outerwear doesn’t have to be frumpy or stiff. Look for metallics and pastels in lightweight fabric that won’t have you squeaking around! Choose a classic shape, don’t go too oversized or you can look like you are wearing a tent. Streamlined shapes that cinch or belt at the waist are functional, flattering and fashion forward.

Invest in your outerwear – technical fabrics, 100% waterproof, removable hoods and packable styles are ideal.

Choose a high quality fabric and a fit that you love! Don’t choose something too trendy if it’s not your style or comfort zone

The oversized trend is sticking around and make these lightweight outerwear pieces easy to transition into when the Fall rolls around because you can easily layer up underneath.

For more from Natalie, visit her Instagram: @natalie_sexton_