Following through + Healthy (protein packed) Mango Parfait

I took the first step towards one of my 2014 goals and signed up for a half marathon!

It’s not until December and I’m a little nervous since I haven’t ran in awhile, but a half marathon has been on my bucket list since I completed my first race and I’m pumped about finally crossing it off my list.  Plus, you get a tiara and a boa so you can cross the finish line like a diva!  How could I not sign up?!

K, now on to some sweet & creamy deliciousness that’s good for you, but taste like it’s bad for you!

I think mangoes are a love ’em or hate ’em kind of fruit.  Fortunately, I’m in the love ’em group.  I’m the only one in my house that likes them.  But that’s just fine by me!  I can eat them in peace without anyone wanting to share and when I buy them, I don’t have to worry about someone else stealing them!  😉

I’m trying to be better about my nutrition since I’m on week 5 of my workout program and I’ve seen zero changes.  I’m certain it’s because I haven’t been eating as well as I should be.  I can tell I’m getting stronger and my cardio has improved, but I’d like to see some changes on the measuring tape, scale or the way my clothes fit.

I started using MyFitnessPal again, even though I hate it.  Logging calories is a PITA.  It’s annoying and can be time consuming, but it works, so I begrudgingly started logging again.  *my username is katiehigg if you want to add me and see what I’m eating*

I did really well over the weekend so I’m looking forward to starting this week off right.  I had this yummy protein packed mango parfait for dessert last night and breakfast this morning.  It’s seriously delicious and a great reminder that healthy foods don’t have to be boring or tasteless!

1/2 cup plain greek yogurt (I use Fage 0%)
1/2 scoop protein powder (Jay Robb’s Vanilla is my protein of choice)
dash of vanilla extract
half a mango – diced (sub any fruit you like if mangoes aren’t your thing!)
*sweetener – optional (I don’t use any because my protein has sweetener and the mango was so sweet, but do what tastes good to you!)
* 1/8 cup granola – optional (I used Udi’s Au Naturale Gluten Free granola)

Measure your yogurt out and add the protein powder a little at a time until it’s completely mixed. Add the vanilla extract and do a taste test.  You’ll want to add your extra sweetener now if you are using a powder sweetener.  If you’re using honey, you can easily add it in the end. Then add your fruit (and granola if you choose to) and it’s ready to eat!  But, eat slowly to savor every bite because you’ll be sad when it’s gone!

Nutrition: Calories 271 // Carbs 36g //  Fat 2g // Protein 28g // Sugar 26g

*nutrition facts are based on my specific ingredients and therefore will be different based on the different brands you use