NYC - Big Apple-tite

This weekend I went up to NY to celebrate my college roommate's daughter Karis's birthday party.  It was awesome; as part of a Korean tradition Karis had several objects placed in front of her including books (scholar), thread (long life), coins (money).  She chose the coins which signals a wealthy future.  Later she also played with the gavel -- look out NY bar 2036!!! It was wonderful and allowed me to have a mini-reunion with my Wellesley ladies. 

However the weekend was a flurry of mussels drenched in butter and pernod, french bread soaking up the aforementioned butter broth, pieces of pistachio cake and green tea cake, gruyere omelet, and martinis.  It was quite the weekend.


The Aftermath


Then I came home and logged my meals.  I know I wasn't trying to stay within my points but with a sinking feeling I realized I was over my weekly allowance by 108 points.  Sigh.  After being down another 3 lbs by Saturday, by Monday morning I'd gained back 4.  But I will not be discouraged!

And...

Today is Valentines Day and I cooked up a healthful meal to get back on the right track!!!  Enjoyed it with a wonderful glass of cabernet sauvignon (a well-worth-it 4 points).

Salmon and black bean tostadas
(Adapted from eatingwell.com)

6 corn tortillas = 6 points

8 oz of salmon = 8 points

2 tsp of olive oil = 2 points

1 c shredded cabbage and carrots = 0 points

2 Tbsp jalepeno brine = 0 points

2 Tbsp pickled jalapeno = 0 points

1 c black beans rinsed = 4 points

3 Tbsp salsa = 0 points

3 Tbsp lowfat greek yogurt = 1 point

1/2 avocado cubed = 4 points

lime wedges = 0 points

1 tsp of cumin

1 pinch of cayenne

3 servings = 25 points

1 serving = 9 points

Directions: Place cabbage mixture in a bowl and stir in brine and chopped jalapenos.  Let rest.

Use 1 teaspoon of olive oil to brush each side of the tortillas and bake in 375 degree oven for 12 min (turn over after 6 min).  Use other teaspoon of olive oil to brush top of salmon, place it skin down on a baking sheet and broil for 7 min (or until it just starts flaking).  Let rest for 5 min.  

Take the 3 tablespoons of salsa and greek yogurt in a food processor with the rinsed black beans.  Puree with cumin and cayenne.  Put into microwave safe bowl and heat for 1 min.

Spread the black bean mixture on the crisped tortillas.  Top with some salmon and avocado, and finally with the cabbage mixture.  Serve with lime wedges!

Tip: For even quicker prep, sub canned salmon in here.  Or forego salmon entirely and top with some 3/4 c shredded cheddar cheese (which means + 9 points for cheese and -9 points for broiled salmon and olive oil) so still 9 points per serving.

Also I could totally just eat the black bean mixture on its own - so good!