top of page


Recipes
I am not a chef but I do know good food. This is a collection of short recipes you can try, to add a few extra power foods for the brain into your eating pattern.
Search


Sauerkraut and Black Bean Salad
This savory snack is formulated to enhance intestinal microbiota while delivering crucial dietary fiber to feed to good microbes. Utilizing raw sauerkraut promotes digestive wellness, while cook black beans, chia seeds, and pumpkin culinary seeds safely escalate the fiber payload to well over 15 grams per serving. Perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or paired with taco night. Ingredients 1 cup sauerkraut 1/2 cup cooked black beans (rinsed and drained) 2 tbsp chia seeds 1.5 tb

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
Jul 91 min read


Cocoa Mint Power Smoothie
This energy-boosting cocoa mint smoothie offers an excellent balance of nutrients, specifically designed for physical and cognitive recovery. It helps address B vitamins and iron deficiencies with nutrients from fresh spinach, cacao nibs, and soy milk, while avocado provides heart-healthy fats. Ingredients 1 scoop chocolate protein powder (or how ever many scoops is 30g protein) 1.5 cups soy milk 1 cup fresh spinach 1/4 avocado 2 tbsp cacao nibs 1/2 cup rolled oats 2 dates, p

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
Jun 181 min read


Almond Matcha Energy Bites
An incredibly convenient, calorie-dense performance snack engineered specifically to fuel highly active lifestyles without requiring refrigeration or preparation work at the beach. Almond butter serves as a source of monounsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E. Matcha powder offers sustained focus without energy spikes. Almond matcha energy bites are a great snack option between meals or between training sessions. Ingredients 1/2 cup rolled oats 2 tablespoons smooth almond butt

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
Jun 101 min read


Recipe for a Caffeine Nap
When my athletes report feeling tired or low energy in the afternoons or between training sessions, I recommend a snack before more caffeine. However, this could be a potentially more potent strategy. Caffeine naps, or "coffee naps," involve consuming caffeine right before taking a short nap of typically 15–20 minutes and have garnered interest for their potential to enhance alertness and cognitive performance. The concept leverages the timing of caffeine absorption and its i

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
Jun 92 min read


Mint Chocolate Protein Mini Muffins
Designed specifically to satisfy an athlete's sweet tooth while maintaining recovery metrics, these mint chocolate protein mini muffins pack high-quality protein and incredible flavor into a compact snack. Whole wheat flour supply the rich dietary fiber necessary for digestive wellness, while mint extract provides a freshness to your chocolate treat. This satisfies chocolate cravings without compromising sports nutrition goals. Ingredients 2 scoops chocolate protein powder (o

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
May 211 min read


Banana Chai Smoothie
This creamy, aromatic banana chai smoothie is formulated to support training and muscle recovery. It provides a dense source of carbohydrates and 30 grams of protein to assist in post-run repair, while delivering dietary fiber from chia and flaxseeds to promote steady energy release and gut health. Ingredients 1 medium banana 1.5 cups unsweetened soy milk 1/4 cup rolled oats 2 tbsp chia seeds 2 tbsp ground flaxseed 1/2 scoop vanilla protein powder (or however much is about 15

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
Apr 231 min read


Lemon Blueberry Protein Bites
A satisfying treat, these lemon blueberry protein bites are designed for sustained power during long ocean rescue shifts or taxing swimming blocks. Rolled oats and real dried blueberries deliver carbs to replenish glycogen lost during intensive exercise. Vanilla protein boosts the protein content for direct muscle support, while cashew butter and chia seeds provide sustained energy. Ingredients 1/2 cup rolled oats 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (or however many scoops is 30 g

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
Mar 191 min read


Coconut Chia Protein Bites
These calorie-dense, portable protein bites are designed specifically to fuel intensive multi-sport training and maintain stable blood sugar levels. Combining healthy fats from cashew butter with fiber-rich chia seeds and a little extra protein, these coconut chia protein bites provide long-lasting satiety and rapid muscular recovery on the go. Ingredients 3 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut 2 tbsp cashew butter 1/2 cup dry rolled oats 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (or howev

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
Mar 191 min read


Dark Chocolate Cherry Protein Bites
Designed specifically to meet the high energy demands of highly active individuals, these protein bites provide a balance of fast-acting carbs and sustained healthy fats. Tart cherries add a rich source of antioxidants that assist in muscle soreness recovery, while the chia seeds and almond butter deliver slow-burning fuel. Formulating these dark chocolate cherry protein bites ensures portable nutrition for on-the-go fueling and recovery. Ingredients 1 cup oat flour 1 scoop c

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
Feb 141 min read


Glorious Green Smoothie
This nutrient-dense green smoothie is specifically formulated to address low iron storage and Vitamin B levels, featuring iron-rich spinach and kale combined with fortified soy milk and protein. Rolled oats and hemp seeds provide complex carbohydrates and essential fatty acids, making it an excellent pre- or post-workout energy source that supports cardiovascular and cognitive health. Ingredients 1 cup raw dinosaur kale, stems removed 1 cup fresh baby spinach 1/2 cup cucumber

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
Jan 151 min read


High-Protein Apple Cinnamon Walnut Muffins
This high-protein apple cinnamon walnut muffin serves as a nutrient-dense snack designed to provide post-run satiety and recovery. Formulated without protein powder, it uses naturally high-protein cottage cheese and eggs as its structural base. Whole wheat flour provides fiber, while walnuts contribute omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for mitigating training-induced inflammation. Diced apples add natural sweetness making this a perfect study snack or post-training snack. Ingredie

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
Jan 21 min read


One Pan Baked White Fish
Light, vibrant, and packed with brain-friendly nutrients, this one pan baked white fish is the perfect combination of flavor and function. With your choice of fish, it features beans or potatoes, juicy cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and onion — all topped with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of lemon, garlic, and paprika. Whether you're fueling up for a productive afternoon or looking for a nourishing dinner, this easy-to-make dish delivers a satisfying and wholesome boost.

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
Dec 31, 20251 min read


Homemade Cabbage Kimchi
This homemade kimchi recipe brings bold flavor and gut-friendly benefits to your kitchen with a vibrant blend of fermented cabbage, spices, and fresh vegetables. Made with simple ingredients like garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes, this traditional Korean staple is both fiery and tangy, with a touch of natural sweetness from carrots and green onions. Whether you're new to fermenting or a seasoned pro, this easy recipe offers a delicious, probiotic-rich addition

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
Dec 30, 20251 min read


Mediterranean Baked Ziti with Sausage
This Baked Ziti with Black Olives, Artichokes, Cherry Tomatoes, Sausage, Spinach, and Parmesan is a hearty, flavor-packed twist on a classic comfort dish. Each bite brings together the richness of savory sausage, the briny bite of olives, and the brightness of tender vegetables. All of these ingredients are baked to perfection with melted cheese. It’s a satisfying, nutrient-dense meal that fuels both body and mind. This dish is perfect for sharing after a long day or refuelin

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
Nov 4, 20251 min read


Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bites
These chocolate peanut butter protein bites are the perfect pick-me-up for test days, race days, or any time you need quick brain recovery. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients like oats, peanut butter, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and vanilla, each bite delivers about 5 grams of protein to keep your mind sharp and your energy steady. They’re rich, satisfying, and easy to make ahead of time. Ideal for recovering from cognitive performance events (CPEs) or as a snack, one bit

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
Oct 29, 20251 min read


Chocolate Chip Banana Mini Muffins
Are you looking for a delicious yet healthy snack? These whole wheat chocolate chip muffins are perfect for you. They are not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. These muffins are a great source of energy. Enjoy 2-3 muffins before an hour-long training session for an energy boost. With the right ingredients, you can enjoy a guilt-free treat that satisfies your sweet tooth. Ingredients: 2 cups whole wheat flour 4 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
Sep 10, 20251 min read


My Favorite Acai Bowl with Toppings
My favorites acai bowl provides high-fiber complex carbohydrates to fuel mind and body performance, combined with protein and soy milk to deliver key nutrient benefits like iron and B vitamins to recover from a long training session. The inclusion of hemp and chia seeds offers essential fatty acids, supporting cardiovascular health and reducing inflammation. Ingredients 1 packet frozen unsweetened acai puree 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (or however many scoop 30 grams prote

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
Aug 21, 20251 min read


Cocoa Peanut Butter Smoothie
This nutrient-dense cocoa peanut butter smoothie is created to provide high-quality fuel for marathon training while being easily digestible for runners struggling with a pre-workout appetite. Cocoa and peanut butter deliver antioxidant support and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Packed with iron from spinach and chia seeds, and B-vitamins from soy milk. The balance of slow-digesting complex carbohydrates from oats and immediate fuel from banana ensures sustained enduranc

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
Jul 17, 20251 min read


Creamy Tofu Pasta with Salmon and Peas
Ingredients: 2 servings whole wheat pasta 1 block silken tofu 6 oz soy milk (or more depending on the cream sauce consistency) 1/4 cup nutritional yeast 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 lbs bag green peas (fresh or frozen) 1 lbs salmon fillet, cut into cubes Salt and pepper to taste Instructions: Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set it aside. In a blender, combine the firm tofu, soy

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
Jun 26, 20251 min read


Berry Brain Boost Smoothie
Packed with antioxidants, healthy fats, and plant-based protein, the Berry Brain Boost Smoothie is a delicious way to fuel your day and support cognitive health. A vibrant mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries blends beautifully with creamy soy milk, crunchy nuts, and nutrient-rich chia seeds. This smoothie is both satisfying and smart, making it a perfect choice for breakfast or a mid-day brain boost snack. Ingredients: 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberr

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
May 15, 20251 min read


Vegetable Miso Soup
Warm, nourishing, and full of umami flavor, this miso soup recipe is a comforting classic with a wholesome twist. Made with savory vegetable broth, tender mushrooms, tofu, and fresh spinach, it’s infused with miso paste and soy sauce for depth, while a touch of sesame oil adds a rich, toasty aroma. Finished with bright green onions, this simple yet satisfying soup is perfect as a light meal or a soothing starter packed with plant-based goodness. Ingredients: 4 cups vegetable

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
May 8, 20251 min read


Homemade Protein Powder
This homemade protein powder is a wholesome alternative to store-bought blends, made entirely from real, nutrient-dense ingredients. A mix of nuts, seeds, and oats provides a balanced source of plant-based protein, healthy fats, and fiber, while cinnamon, and a pinch of salt add natural flavor without any additives or preservatives. Perfect for smoothies, oatmeal, or baking, this DIY powder fuels your body and brain with sustained energy and supports overall wellness, one sco

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
May 8, 20251 min read


Dark Chocolate Nut Clusters
These Dark Chocolate Nut Clusters are a simple yet indulgent treat that combines rich, antioxidant-packed dark chocolate with crunchy, heart-healthy nuts. Perfect as a snack or a sweet bite after a meal, they offer the ideal balance of flavor and texture with just a hint of natural sweetness. Easy to make and easy to love, these clusters are a wholesome way to satisfy your chocolate cravings, no baking required. Ingredients: 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans, cashews

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
Apr 24, 20251 min read


Summer Breeze Mocktail
Cool down with a refreshing Summer Breeze Mocktail, a tropical-inspired drink that’s as vibrant as a sunny day. This fruity blend combines sweet pineapple juice, hydrating coconut water, and zesty citrus from orange and lime juice, with a splash of grenadine for a gorgeous sunset hue. Served over ice and topped with fresh fruit slices, it’s the perfect alcohol-free sip for poolside lounging, backyard gatherings, or any moment that calls for a taste of summer. Ingredients 1 cu

Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN, RD, CSSD
Apr 17, 20251 min read
bottom of page
.png)