The Biggest Loser Cookbook Offers A Variety of Easy, Healthful Recipes

After reading Jodi Picoult, I felt some lighter fare was in order. Literally. I picked up The Biggest Loser Cookbook the other day at Borders, and was excited to "read" it for the Soup's On Challenge.

The basic philosophy behind The Biggest Loser "diet" is to eat mostly unprocessed, natural foods. In the words of trainer Kim Lyons, "If God didn't make it, don't eat it" (xi). Thus, the recipes in the cookbook rely on natural ingredients, as well as some specialty foods that you probably don't have sitting in your pantry. The recipes aren't exotic, but you will probably have to make a special trip to the grocery store before trying most of them.

The recipes are divided into 6 categories: Breakfasts; Hearty Snacks; Sandwiches, Soups, and Stews; Sides and Salads; Main Courses; and Sweet Snacks. They come from past contestants on The Biggest Loser and from chef Devin Alexander. All of the recipes seem fairly easy to prepare; some have as little as two ingredients. As I was flipping through each section, I was surprised at the variety and originality of the dishes presented. I marked plenty recipes I want to try (after a trip to the grocery store, of course). I also liked that nutrition facts were listed for each dish.

I only found one recipe I could make with the ingredients I had on hand. It didn't turn out so well, but I think that was my fault :) Here's the recipe:

FROZEN HOT CHOCOLATE

2/3 c. hot water

1 packet (.29 oz.) sugar-free, fat free hot chocolate mix

2 T. aerosol fat-free whipped topping (optional)

In a small freezer-safe plastic container with a lid, combine the water and chocolate mix. Stir or whisk to dissolve the powder completely. Let stand to cool. Cover the container and place in the freezer for 4-5 hours, or until solid.

To serve, let the container stand at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, or until the hot chocolate is just starting to melt slightly around the edges. Or, place the container in the microwave and cook on high power for about 30 seconds. (It should still be somewhat hard and need to be scraped with a spoon.) Dollop with whipped topping, if desired. Serve immediately.

Makes 1 serving

Per serving: 25 calories, 2 g. protein, 4 g. carbohydrates, 0 g. fat, o mg cholesterol, 1 g. fiber, 150 mg sodium

I think my problem was that I didn't let the concoction freeze long enough (it had been in the freezer for barely 4 hours when I took it out). It was solid, though. Anyway, I opted to put it in the microwave for 30 seconds ... and it melted. I tasted one of the more solid chunks, and it reminded me of a sugar free fudgsicle. Not bad. I'm going to attempt this one again, since it's really easy. I'll let you know how it turns out.

I'm not sure how to rate a cookbook, but I'm excited about this one. The recipes seem easy, varied, and healthy. I'm looking forward to whipping up some more good, healthy fare from past contestants on my favorite weight loss reality show!