Grilled Fish Tacos from Puesto

Grilled Fish Tacos from Puesto

by | Feb 6, 2019 | All, Home, Nutrition, Recipes

“One of our goals with every new dish that we create is that we want to make an impact with big bright flavors but we also want our guests to leave Puesto feeling great.  We feel that cooking with great quality fresh produce and ingredients is the only way to achieve that.”

Executive Chef Katy Smith

Puesto

Grilled Fish Tacos with Melon Salsa from Puesto

Ingredients

For the Habanero Crema

  • 1 Habanero
  • 2 cloves of garlic, in their husks
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 tablespoons of ripe avocado (about ¼ each)
  • 1 tablespoon Mexican Crema
  • 1 Tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • ¼ cup olive oil

For the Melon Salsa

  • ½ cup Ripe cantaloupe, cut into ¼ inch cubes
  • 1/3 cup Roma tomatoes, cut into ¼ inch cubes, about 2
  • 1/4 cup diced Red Onion
  • 1 bunch cilantro
  • Kosher salt
  • 1-2 Limes
  • 1 Serrano chile

To Plate

  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 1 lb fresh white fish cut into 8 pieces
  • Kosher salt
  • Shaved Red Cabbage
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • Lime wedges for serving

Method

Step 1:

For the Crema

  1. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the garlic and habanero to the skillet.
  3. Rotate frequently until the habanero is golden brown on all sides and the garlic is brown and softened.
  4. The habanero should take about 5 minutes, the garlic should take about 12.
  5. Allow the garlic to cook until handleable and remove the skins and discard. Remove the stems of the habanero.
  6. Add the garlic, habanero, honey, crema, avocado, and lime juice to a blender jar along with a pinch of salt.
  7. Start the blender.
  8. Slowly stream in the oil through the top of the blender until combined.
  9. Taste and add more seasoning if necessary.
  10. Allow to cool completely.

Step 2:

For the Salsa

  1. Cut the tomatoes, cantaloupe, and red onion.
  2. Chop cilantro.
  3. Mince the serrano.
  4. In a mixing bowl combine the melon, red onion, tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of cilantro, the juice of 1 lime, a pinch of salt, and about 1/3 of the serrano.
  5. Taste the salsa.
  6. Add more salt if needed, and add more lime juice and serrano if desired.

Step 3:

For the Tacos

  1. Set a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1/2 tsp water.
  2. Add tortillas to pan, about 4 at a time and cover to warm the tortillas through.
  3. Heat the remaining tortillas adding another ½ tsp of water.
  4. Transfer warmed tortillas to a cloth or foil and wrap to keep warm.
  5. Drop oil onto skillet. Place portioned fish in and sprinkle with salt.
  6. Cook for 1 1/2 minutes. Flip and cook 1 more minute depending on the thickness of the fish.
  7. While the fish cooks, place tortillas on plates. Place the fish on top tortilla.
  8. Garnish the fish with a slice of avocado and cabbage. Lightly spoon the habanera crema over the fish. Top with melon salsa over the habanero crema.
  9. Serve with lime wedges.

Yields 8 tacos. 

To view all locations and hours of operation, please visit http://eatpuesto.com/locations/.

Featured Recipes

The Basics of Health, Fitness, and Nutrition – Podcast Ep. 16

The Basics of Health, Fitness, and Nutrition – Podcast Ep. 16

by | Jan 28, 2019 | All, Home, Podcast

Welcome to the 16th episode of the Living Healthy Podcast, presented by LA Fitness.

On this episode of the Living Healthy Podcast, we speak with a doctor named Bobby, a dietitian named Candy, and a personal trainer named Mark(y). (I may have added the “y” just to keep things consistent.)

All guests are experts in their field and share their knowledge with us on the topics of health, nutrition, and fitness. This episode may be all about the basics, but it’s anything but boring.

Stick around to the end of the episode for a special announcement (Hint: you may win something pretty cool!)

This podcast should not replace any exercise program or restrictions, any dietary supplements or restrictions, or any other medical recommendations from your primary care physician. Before starting any exercise program or diet, make sure it is approved by your doctor.

Timecard Markers – The Basics – Podcast Ep. 16

Intro    

Begins at 0:01    

**Part 1 – Health** 

Dr. Bobby Davari (of Kaiser Permanente Orange County), Joins the Show  

Begins at 1:00   

How Do Doctors Determine Health? 

1:17 

How to Keep Blood Sugar from Spiking 

4:10  

The Waist-to-Hip Circumference: Truth or Fiction? 

5:55 

Is “Skinny Fat” Really a Thing? 

8:45 

Does Fat Help the Body at All? 

10:35 

What Are Some Simple Things Listeners Can Do to Improve Their Health?  

11:47 

**Part 2 – Nutrition** 

Candice Maher, RDN, (of Kaiser Permanente Orange County), Joins the Show  

13:56 

How Many Calories a Day Do You Generally Need?  

14:15 

Can You Eat Whatever You Want If You Stay Within Your Caloric Limits? 

15:48 

How Much Does It Matter to Cut Out Soda and Fruit Juice When It Comes to Dieting?  

16:28 

Are Natural Sugars (Like from Fruit Juice) Healthier for the Body? 

18:32 

What Are Some of the Most Important Things Our Listeners Should Know About Improving Their Nutrition?  

20:29 

**Part 3 – Fitness** 

LA Fitness, Personal Training Director, Mark Joseph de Guzman, Joins the Show  

22:27 

What Are Some of the Differences Between: Bodyweight, Selectorized and Free Weight Training?  

23:08 

What Should Beginners Begin With? 

24:07 

Do You Need to Strength Train and Cardio Train to Achieve Results? 

25:04 

What’s Involved in a LAF Fitness Assessment? 

27:34 

How Many Times Should You Aim to Work Out?  

28:41  

How Many Rest Days Should You Give Yourself? Should You Still Keep Active on Rest Days? 

29:33 

What Are Some Basic Things Our Listeners Should Take Away About Fitness?  

30:29 

Outro (AND SUPER EXCITING ANNOUNCEMENT!!)  

 30:57  

Recommended Podcast Episodes 

What to Expect When Joining LA Fitness

What to Expect When Joining LA Fitness

by | Jan 4, 2019 | All, Fitness, Home

It’s the start of the New Year, which means endless possibilities for what you can accomplish in the twelve months that lay ahead! A fresh start, a clean slate, a brand-new year! It’s exciting just thinking about the positive changes that can be made. For many, taking control of their fitness and nutrition tops the list of changes wanted. While not everything in life can be controlled, your fitness and diet can be. Positive and healthy changes made to these parts of your life can transfer to other aspects of your life too! This probably leaves you asking yourself, “Where do I begin? How do I start?”

A great place to help kickstart a new positive change is to surround yourself with other like-minded individuals. That old saying about you becoming who you surround yourself with is pretty accurate. Chances are that if you’re around a group who prioritizes the importance of fitness and focuses on healthier eating habits, they’ll help inspire you to do the same – and keep you motivated!

That is why joining a local gym may be the key factor needed to accomplish your goals. However, for some people, this can be scary. There’s the pressure of thinking you already need to be in somewhat decent shape before joining or the fear of not knowing what to expect that can be holding you back. Change can be scary but change causes growth and growth in a positive direction is worth a bit of uncomfortableness in the beginning. Trust us, your future healthier self will thank you.

To put some of the unknown scariness of joining a gym aside, we’ve compiled a list of what you can expect when joining an LA Fitness.

  1. Greet the front desk staff and let them know you’re interested in joining.
  2. A sales representative will greet you and give you a tour of the club.
  3. They’ll take you to the service area and ask what your goals are.
  4. After careful review, they’ll educate you on plan and pricing options.
  5. They’ll introduce you to a PT representative who will set you up with a free fitness assessment.

You can always try us out first! Click here for a guest pass.

Once you’re all signed up you’ll have access to –

Group Fitness Classes

You’ll have access to many different options for group fitness classes including member favorites like cycle, yoga, and Zumba®. Group Fitness is a great place to begin if you don’t know where to start with gym equipment. It’s a fun way to keep your cardio options interesting so you never get bored during a workout again. Plus, some Group Fitness classes incorporate weight training or body weight exercises, meaning you can get your strength training in this way too!

Pool*

Our pools are kept at a comfortable temperature in the low 80’s. Swimming doesn’t just have to be saved for the summer months. Try out a Group Fitness Aqua Fit class for some low impact cardio or enjoy the swimming lanes on your own when classes aren’t in session. The pool can even be a great way to unwind after a tough workout. Certain clubs even have a spa available to all members to relax in and help loosen up the muscles after a long day. Make sure to check to see if your club has these options available.

Weight Room

Each LA Fitness weight room typically boosts over 20,000 pounds of free weights for members to use. Dumbbells start at 5lbs. and go all the way up to 100 lbs. There are also plate weight options, barbell options, and resistance training equipment. The variety ensures that there’s a little something for everyone, depending on your fitness level and weight training preferences.

Locker Room

The locker room is the one place you’ll want to visit every time you work out in our gyms. With full-sized lockers, showers, a dry sauna, and restrooms, you’ll definitely benefit from our spa-like amenities. Just make sure to bring your own lock and please remember that lockers are for day use only. Some clubs even provide a towel service in case you left yours at home.*

Cycle

Our cycle equipment is available for Group Fitness classes and solo workouts. In a Group Fitness setting, riders can expect to pedal a distance of 15 to 20 miles in a one-hour class! Cycle can be a great way to get in some HIIT training, otherwise known as high-intensity interval training. For those new to cycle, don’t let the distance or high intensity scare you away. Each class starts off at a beginner’s pace which you’re able to stay at until you get comfortable to pick your speed up. As long as you keep the pedals moving, you’re doing your body some good.

Cardio

Ellipticals, treadmills, cross-trainers, stationary bikes, and stair climbers are what you can expect to find in the cardio section of an LA Fitness. If you’re not one for Group Fitness classes, these might be a better option for you to still get your cardio in. With plenty to choose from, you have the option to train different parts of your body, to choose a low impact or high impact option, or to simply switch up the routine if things get stale with your workouts. (It’s good to switch up your workout roughly every two weeks anyway to keep the body surprised!)

Pro Results® Personal Training*

This is the best option if you’re looking for someone to help hold you accountable for your workouts and make sure you’re doing the correct workout each time you’re in the club. It’s important to mention that when you join Pro Result® Personal Training, you’re not just being told what to do and how many times a week to do it, but you’re learning as well. You’ll be paired with a trainer that knows your specific goals and how to help you accomplish them. During your training, you’ll learn what equipment works best for you, helpful tips on cardio versus strength training, and how you can better improve your diet.

Selectorized Equipment

We recommend our selectorized equipment stations for those who are new to working out. These machines often times will help you focus on form to help you better understand how to do the exercise without causing injury to yourself. These machines can be adjusted to your strength level and height, and there are machines designed to focus on specific target areas. If you’re unsure how to use a piece of equipment, there’s usually a sticker diagram attached the machine showing you how to use it properly. If you’re still unsure, visit our personal training department and have them help you.

Basketball/Club Leagues*

Our basketball courts are full length and built for free play. They can also double as a volleyball court. Basketballs and volleyballs are provided for players to use during their time in the gym. For those who are looking for something more than freestyle pickup games, some LA Fitness clubs offer leagues you can join for an additional cost. Ask the front desk of your club for more details.

Racquetball/Club Leagues*

Racquetball courts can be reserved on the LA Fitness mobile app for up to two hours of play time. If you choose not to reserve online, you can also come in to the club and grab a free court. They are first-come, first-serve. For those who are looking for something more competitive, some LA Fitness clubs offer leagues you can join for an additional cost. Ask the front desk of your club for more details.

Stretching Area

The stretching area helps you recover after a hard workout. By taking 10 to 15 minutes to stretch after your workout, you can help lengthen your muscle tissues which will help you recover faster and get stronger. Nobody wants a pulled muscle – that’s why there’s an area dedicated to post-workout rest and stretch.

Kids Klub*

Perfect for the busy moms, dads, grandmas, grandpas, and anyone else who may be responsible for watching the little ones while also trying to get their workout in. Our staff make sure your child is watched after, and safe and secure, while you enjoy your workout in peace. Check your home club for Kids Klub hours.

Front Desk/Mobile Check-in

The mobile check-in is a fast and convenient way to get your workout started faster. Have your phone out, the app ready, and simply scan your way in when entering the club to save you time at check-in.

Some additional member and non-member benefits include access to:

  • The Living Healthy Blog
    • Includes: Member Spotlight success stories, health, nutrition, and wellness articles to help educate you, and Living Healthy recipes from restaurants across the nation.
  • The Living Healthy Podcast
    • The official podcast of LA Fitness hosted by two Living Healthy members dedicated to learning more about the world of health, fitness, and nutrition. Every other week a guest is brought on to the show to give listeners a better understanding of what it takes to be healthier overall. (Listen here!)
  • Ask Our Dietitian
    • LA Fitness registered dietitian, Debbie James, is here to help answer your nutrition-related questions. That’s right – you can ask us your nutrition questions free of charge! Please note: We do not currently provide personalized nutrition plans, but you can send us in your nutrition-related question here for a chance for it to be a featured question on our blog.
  • Ask A Trainer YouTube Series
    • Filled with member questions related to fitness, this is the go-to place if you have a fitness question that you can’t seem to find the answer to. (Watch here.)

What are your health and fitness goals? Let us know in the comments below!

Click to explore our clubs, here.

*Amenities and classes vary by location. Some amenities and classes may be available for an additional fee. Pro Results® Personal Training requires an additional fee and entry into a separate agreement.

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Experience the Dory Catch from Lido Bottle Works

Experience the Dory Catch from Lido Bottle Works

by | Jan 2, 2019 | All, Home, Nutrition, Recipes

“The Dory Catch at Lido Bottle Works highlights and encompasses the true meaning of local in every ingredient. The fish changes every day. Here’s one you can make at home. Try and support a local farmer’s market when you shop for this.”

Executive Chef Amy Lebrun , Lido Bottle Works

Photography provided by: Lido Bottle Works

Lido Bottle Works is located at 3408 Via Oporto #103, Newport Beach, CA 92663. Open Monday through Thursday 11am to 11pm, Friday and Saturday from 11am to 12am, and Sunday from 11am to 10pm. For the menu and additional details, please visit lidobottleworks.com.

LIDO BOTTLE WORKS DORY CATCH

Photography by: Niyaz Pirani, Knife & Spork Public Relations

Recipe provided by Executive Chef Amy Lebrun of Lido Bottle Works

Ingredients

For the Salmon

  • 2 each 6 oz. Salmon Fillet
  • 1/8 tsp. Smoked Paprika
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 1 tbs. Olive Oil
  • 1 tbs. Butter

For the Kabocha Squash Puree

  • 1 cup Squash Puree (peeled and small dice)
  • 2 oz. White Onion (small dice)
  • 2 each Garlic Cloves (small dice)
  • 1/4 cup White Wine
  • 2 tbs. Olive Oil
  • 2 oz. Seasonal Apples (peeled and diced)
  • 2 oz. Heavy Cream
  • 4 oz. Vegetable Stock
  • 1 tsp. Salt

For the Fingerling Potatoes

  • 1 cup Fingerling Potatoes (cut into 1/4 inch coins)
  • 2 tbs. Olive Oil
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 1/2 oz. Chopped Parsley

For the Winter Green Salad

  • 1 oz. Apple (thinly sliced)
  • 1 oz. Fennel (thinly sliced)
  • 2 each Radishes (thinly sliced)
  • Handful of Garden Green (of your choice)
    • *Chef’s Note: I prefer Dandelion, Mustard, Arugula, Frisse, Kale, Blommsdale Spinach and Chard.
  • 2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
  • 1 oz. Olive Oil
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

Method

Step 1:

For the Salmon

  • Season filet with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Put salmon in a buttered saute pan and in the oven at 350 degrees.
  • Cook to the desired temperature.

Step 2:

For the Kabocha Squash Puree

  • In a small pot on low heat add oil, garlic, onion, apples and white wine. Sweat until cooked through and alcohol is cooked out.
  • Add squash, cream, vegetable stock, salt, and pepper and cook until squash is cooked through.
  • Transfer to a mixer/blender/food processor to puree. If the puree is too thick, add more vegetable stock to it to thin out and make super smooth.

Step 3: 

For the Fingerling Potatoes 

  • Toss fingerling potatoes in oil, salt, and pepper.
  • Put on a sheet pan and roast in the oven at 350 degrees until cooked through.
  • You can cook the potatoes at the same time as the salmon, but note that the potatoes will take longer to cook.

Step 4:

For the Winter Green Salad

  • In a bowl toss all ingredients together and coat with lemon juice and olive oil.

Featured Recipes

Lose 50 lbs. the Safe Way

Lose 50 lbs. the Safe Way

by | Jan 1, 2019 | All, Ask Our Dietitian, Home, Nutrition

Question:

What type of foods should I eat, and exercises should I do? I want to lose 50 lbs. safely. I’m 5’7″ and weigh 203 lbs. and I want to reduce my BMI. How can I stay motivated to workout consistently and hard?

– Kristy M.

Answer:

Since your height and weight don’t tell me anything about who you are, it’s difficult to say what foods you should eat. There are several approaches to weight loss. One is to start with what you already eat and reduce portions, say by 25%. Another is to calorie count and track your intake. You could also go vegetarian. But realistically, the plan you choose should match up with how you live and what you believe about food. I mean, telling you to cook steel cut oats if you dash out the door in 10 minutes each morning is a set-up for failure! I can say that nearly everyone could stand to eat more wholesome, unprocessed ‘clean’ plant-based foods and avoid fried food, candy, junk food, and soda.

I’d encourage you to work through our 90 Day Nutrition Plan to a Leaner You, laid out over three parts. #MoveMoreBurnMore

Motivation comes from within, but a repeating few mantras or sayings can help keep you focused:

  • Don’t shoot for perfection, just better or more than current.
  • “The only bad workout is the one that didn’t happen.”
  • Each bout of exercise brings you closer to your goal – sooner.

As far as working out hard, know that it takes a change to create a change – push yourself out of your comfort zone so your body is forced to adapt.

– Debbie J., MS, RD

This article should not replace any exercise program or restrictions, any dietary supplements or restrictions, or any other medical recommendations from your primary care physician. Before starting any exercise program or diet, make sure it is approved by your doctor.

Some questions have been edited for length and/or clarity.

Ask our Dietitian

Have a nutrition question? Our registered dietitian is ready to help!

Email nutrition@lafitness.com or submit your question below and it may be featured in an upcoming article!

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