Everything is bigger in Texas. And our friend Emily Weeks, a Fort Worth-based registered dietitian, makes good-for-you, flavor-packed recipes that stay true to this saying.
An award-winning nutrition expert, Emily has been featured by the likes of BuzzFeed, Cosmopolitan and Huffington Post, just to name a few. She splits her time between working as a school wellness expert and writing her blog Zen & Spice, where she showcases deliciously nutritious recipes designed to inspire mindfulness in the kitchens and homes of her readers.
We’re so happy Emily took some time out of her busy schedule to dish with us! Scroll through this post to read more about why she loves seafood and see some of her favorite, reader-approved Zen & Spice dishes.
Tell us about your blog.
I’m a nutrition and culinary expert based in Fort Worth. I believe the path to a nourished, happy life is to develop a healthy relationship with food, our minds and our bodies. By cooking more at home, eating and moving intuitively, we can achieve peace of mind and be happy in the here and now. Zen & Spice is all about empowering you to trust in your natural ability to create the balanced and nourished life you’re meant to live. You know, intuitively – what works best with your own body.
Being mindful of what nourishment and self-care you need in your everyday life helps you stay connected to your mind, body and soul. Creating delicious meals doesn’t have to be complicated – exploring the use of real foods in creative new ways will help you experience familiar, everyday ingredients in a whole new light. Whether it’s exploring new flavors in the kitchen or trying out new exercises that stimulate the body and mind, keeping an open mind can make each day fun and exciting. Everyone needs a little spice in their life!
Why do you love seafood?
I’m a huge fan of seafood because it not only tastes great, it’s good for you, too. There are so many options, as well – salmon, shrimp, tuna, scallops, tilapia, etc. You never get bored! Seafood is a great source of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, as well as a lean source of protein.
What is your favorite seafood dish to make at home or order at a restaurant?
My all-time favorite seafood dish is Shrimp Scampi! I have a recipe on my blog that’s made with half pasta and half zucchini noodles. The sauce is made from white wine, garlic, butter and shrimp, and it’s a delicious, lightened-up version of Shrimp Scampi!
What’s next on your “must make” or “must order” seafood list?
I love ordering scallops at restaurants. Pan-seared in butter, scallops are soft and tender and just melt in your mouth.
What are your tips for people who might be intimidated by the thought of preparing seafood at home?
Start easy – buy precooked shrimp and toss them into a salad or pasta dish. Also, tilapia and salmon are great “starter” fish, due to their quick cooking nature and mild flavor.
What are your tips for people looking to improve their health by including seafood in their diet?
I always keep one or two types of seafood in my freezer. Many grocery stores sell frozen, individually packed fish like tilapia or salmon. You can defrost these quickly for a weeknight meal. Invest in a grill pan for your stove – this makes cooking fish very fast and adds great flavor (and pretty grill marks!).
A few favorite seafood recipes from Zen & Spice:
Simple Panko Crusted Tilapia
This Panko Crusted Tilapia pairs perfectly with seasonal veggies, such as asparagus.
Get the recipe here.
Baked Coconut Shrimp
Sweet, salty and savory – this delicious Baked Coconut Shrimp won’t last long.
Get the recipe here.
BBQ Salmon & Sesame Noodles
Easy to pull together, this recipe can be ready in just 20 minutes, making it a surefire weeknight favorite.
Get the recipe here.
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