Cooking with Karina: Fall Finesse

These Granola Cluster Cookies make for a healthy, filling snack or dessert. 

Karina Arnold is a senior at the University of Oklahoma who’s passionate about healthy cooking. She provides creative, healthy recipes and tips on clean eating.

Labor Day marks the beginning of fall and end of summer. The Houston weather doesn’t reflect dropping temperatures and cool breezes, but nevertheless fall in Houston means Back to School, work, holidays and stress. Here are some tips to start your fall semester on a high note and continue to knock out and rock out through the season.

1. Buy your Christmas gifts now: Yes, holidays are on the horizon and if you are like me, you like to get your gifts early before you are broke and before store shelves are whipped clean from last-minute shoppers. When I buy my gifts before my fall semester gets packed, my gifts are more thoughtful since I do not feel pressure to buy the first thing I see. Furthermore, I buy extra gifts I can give to family, acquiesces or teachers. These “emergency gifts” include soaps, wine or fun knick-knacks that anybody can enjoy.

2. Have a family, house or community calendar: Display a large, monthly calendar in a common space in your household so everyone can write down important events, appointments or plans. Of course, there is no need for my roommate to know I have an exam Monday, but writing down that my parents are visiting over the weekend is a significant plan that affects the entire household. Furthermore, when my mom or dad schedules a family dinner, dates and times can get lost or forgotten in the family group chat. Writing them down is concrete visual evidence my brothers and I can’t forget.

3. Plan and prep: Before I go to bed, I lay out my workout clothes and pack my gym bag. Additionally, I pack my backpack with the books I need for class and make sure my laptop and phone are fully charged. These little steps seem insignificant, but during the morning rush, they save a lot of time and stress. Having my gym routine written down and clothes out lets my focus on the workout. For school, having my backpack ready saves me the time of scanning my planner and looking for books. My number one time-saver is food prep. Prep for Success and pack your lunch so you can grab and go. For a sweet, mid-day treat, I love these Granola Cluster Cookies which are loaded with fiber-full and iron rich nuts and easy to pack. Whether it’s for meetings, parties or personal snacking purposes, making a batch of these cookies is easy work with a delicious pay-off.

4. Take time to yourself: Don’t apologize for Treating Yourself to yummy food, a spa day or relaxing with a book. Be Thank-Full for your friends, family and health. With a positive mindset and an upright attitude, you will have a fulfilling fall season.

Do you have any tips or tricks to preparing for the holidays? Comment below!