Leaning Into a Balanced Life

What should I do if my kid only wants to eat fruit? How do I start food prepping? Do I have to give up sweets completely?

You can find the answers to questions like these and a whole lot more on Lindsay Livingston’s delightful blog, The Lean Green Bean. Lindsay is a registered dietitian, Crossfit enthusiast, and mom of three littles. Her goal is to teach people that healthy living doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.

The Lean Green Bean had humble beginnings, but now helps tens of thousands of families eat healthier and live better. “I was sharing photos of my dinners every night on Facebook,” Lindsay says, “and my mom and husband suggested I start a blog to help keep all the recipes in one place and make them easy to share.”

As a busy working mom, she doesn’t strive for perfection, but balance. Her Instagram feed is a mix of delicious recipes, happy kids, and the beautiful chaos that is everyday life. “My goal is to show people that healthy eating can become a way of life, that it’s possible to eat healthy even when you’re busy. And that eating healthy doesn’t mean restricting sweets, eliminating entire food groups or constantly depriving yourself of foods you love!”

For one thing, Lindsay would never say “adios” to Mexican food, and that includes black beans. “Black beans are my favorite because they go so well with Mexican flavors, and we eat Mexican-style meals at least twice a week around here!”

Lindsay is also a fan of dried beans in general. “They’re a great source of protein and fiber,” she says. “They’re also inexpensive and a great way to incorporate more plant protein in your diet. Plus, there are so many different varieties that almost everyone can find one they like!”

Add some more beans – and balance – to your diet with Lindsay’s White Bean Muffins. These little beauties are gluten- and dairy-free and make a tasty breakfast or snack.