As we reflect on another incredible year, the journey of Unbound Wellness continues to be a profound source of joy and gratitude. While every year brings its unique set of challenges, 2018 was undeniably rich with moments of growth, connection, and culinary creativity. At the very core of this platform, and indeed one of my deepest passions, lies the art of crafting nourishing recipes – creations I am always thrilled to share with you, our amazing community.
Food is far more than just sustenance; it’s a powerful tool for self-healing, a medium for artistic expression, and a fundamental way we connect with the world and each other. The kitchen becomes a canvas where we can explore creativity, infuse passion into our daily lives, and profoundly enhance our health, one mindful meal at a time. It’s a unifying force, a universal language, and there’s an endless potential in what we can achieve through thoughtful preparation and shared experiences around the table.
I feel incredibly blessed and thankful for the opportunity to share my culinary creations and wellness insights with each of you. Your engagement, your trust, and your willingness to embark on this health journey with me are truly inspiring. It’s your enthusiasm that fuels the continuous development of new, delicious recipes designed to support your well-being.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the culinary highlights of 2018! Based on an analysis of website traffic, recipe engagement, and vibrant discussions across social media, here are YOUR top favorite recipes from Unbound Wellness for the year. These dishes resonated most deeply with you, proving their deliciousness and efficacy in your own kitchens.
Your Most Loved Recipes: Unbound Wellness Reader Favorites of 2018
1. Anti-inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup
“ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. My whole family LOVED IT!!!!”- Regin
This comforting Turmeric Chicken Soup quickly became a cherished staple, celebrated for its incredible flavor and potent anti-inflammatory properties. Infused with golden turmeric, a powerhouse spice known for its healing benefits, this soup offers a soothing embrace, perfect for chilly days or when you need a gentle nutritional boost. Its popularity is a testament to its delicious taste and the comforting, healthful experience it provides, making it a beloved choice for families seeking both flavor and wellness.
2. Spinach Avocado Chicken Burgers
“I made this with ground turkey and they were amazing, especially with the avocado mayo! That really put the flair over the top.” – Beth
Elevating the classic burger experience, these Spinach Avocado Chicken Burgers offer a fresh, wholesome, and incredibly flavorful alternative. Packed with nutrient-rich spinach and creamy avocado, they deliver a satisfying texture and a burst of flavor. The suggestion from a reader to use ground turkey highlights its versatility, while the homemade avocado mayo truly takes this dish to another level, adding a luxurious, healthy twist that makes it an unforgettable meal. These burgers are a perfect example of how healthy eating can be both exciting and utterly delicious.
3. Mexican Chicken Poppers
“The Mexican Sweet Potato Chicken poppers are amazing! Thank you so much. I’ve been following an AIP diet for a few months now do to issues with gluten, nightshades…. My family loved them too. It has been so hard finding recipes that I can eat and that my family likes too. TheCilantro, Avocado, Lime sauce is great too. I’ll be using it for everything, topping burgers tonight and dipping the poppers in it for lunch tomorrow. I’ll be trying many of your recipes.” – Paula J.
These Mexican Chicken Poppers became an instant hit, especially for those navigating dietary restrictions like the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP). Their vibrant flavors and satisfying texture prove that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing taste. The testimonial beautifully illustrates how challenging it can be to find family-friendly AIP recipes, and these poppers filled that gap wonderfully. Paired with the versatile Cilantro, Avocado, Lime sauce, they offer a burst of zesty freshness that complements the savory chicken, making them perfect for appetizers, snacks, or a light meal. They embody the joy of wholesome, delicious food that everyone can enjoy.
4. One Pot Lasagna Skillet
“This was delicious and so easy to make! Perfect for a quick weekday meal. My husband asked for this to be made on a regular basis. It’s clean and very flavorful!” – Ashley G.
The One Pot Lasagna Skillet proved to be a weeknight hero, celebrated for its incredible ease and irresistible flavor. This ingenious recipe captures all the comforting essence of traditional lasagna without the fuss and multiple dishes. It’s a truly “clean” and flavorful meal, perfect for busy evenings when you crave something hearty yet simple to prepare. The feedback from readers, especially spouses requesting it regularly, speaks volumes about its universal appeal and success as a healthy, convenient family dinner option. It’s a testament to how healthy eating can be both delicious and efficient.
5. Paleo Egg Roll Soup
“Delicious, easy and affordable.” – Nicole
This Paleo Egg Roll Soup quickly became a fan favorite, especially during colder months, offering all the beloved flavors of an egg roll without the grain-based wrapper. It’s a brilliant solution for those following Paleo, Whole30, or AIP diets, delivering a comforting and hearty meal that’s both delicious and incredibly satisfying. Nicole’s succinct review perfectly captures its essence: “Delicious, easy, and affordable.” This soup exemplifies how dietary-friendly meals can be rich in flavor, simple to prepare, and kind to your budget, making healthy eating accessible to everyone.
6. Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
“This was awesome! I had this soup often growing up, but have never been able to successfully make it myself. This recipe was amazing – thank you!” – Melanie
Bringing the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean to your kitchen, this Paleo Greek Lemon Chicken Soup was highly praised for its authentic flavors and comforting warmth. For many, like Melanie, it evoked cherished childhood memories, finally allowing them to recreate a beloved dish with a healthy, grain-free twist. The bright tang of lemon combined with tender chicken and aromatic herbs creates a truly restorative and flavorful soup. Its success lies in its ability to deliver a taste of home while aligning with modern wellness principles, making it a truly special and heartwarming recipe.
7. One Pan Greek Chicken Meal Prep
“I love it! Added some red and yellow bell peppers. Rating a 10!” – Shana
For those committed to healthy eating even on the busiest schedules, the One Pan Greek Chicken Meal Prep became an indispensable tool. This recipe champions simplicity and efficiency, allowing you to prepare nutritious, flavorful meals in advance with minimal cleanup. Shana’s enthusiastic “Rating a 10!” coupled with her customization suggests its adaptability and deliciousness. It embodies the essence of smart, clean eating, making it easier than ever to stick to your wellness goals throughout the week. This meal prep solution is a testament to the power of thoughtful planning for sustained health.
8. Turmeric Chicken Meal Prep
“Really good chicken and broccoli! I drizzled some extra Olive oil over the chicken and broccoli before putting it in the oven. I will make this again. For the kids they are theirs with basmati rice” – Erica
Another triumph in the realm of convenient and healthy eating, these Turmeric Chicken Meal Prep bowls combine the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric with the ease of prepared meals. Erica’s feedback highlights its versatility and family-friendliness, demonstrating how easily it can be adapted for both adults and children, even accommodating different preferences like serving with basmati rice. This recipe offers a balanced and flavorful option for weekly meal planning, ensuring you have wholesome, ready-to-eat food at your fingertips. It’s a smart choice for maintaining energy and wellness throughout a busy week.
9. Turmeric Bars
These innovative Turmeric Bars soared in popularity as a unique and delicious way to incorporate the powerful anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric into a convenient snack. Perfect for a quick energy boost or a healthy treat, these bars offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Their ease of preparation and portability made them a go-to for many readers seeking wholesome, grab-and-go options that support their overall well-being. They exemplify how functional foods can be incredibly tasty and seamlessly integrated into a busy lifestyle.
10. Copy Cat Chipotle Burrito Bowls
“Yummy! So good, easy and much cheaper than the beloved chipotle.” – Julie
Craving your favorite takeout without the questionable ingredients or hefty price tag? Our Copy Cat Chipotle Burrito Bowls were a resounding success, offering a homemade version that’s just as satisfying, if not more so. Julie’s feedback perfectly encapsulates why this recipe was such a hit: it’s “yummy,” “easy,” and “much cheaper” than the original. This recipe empowers you to create custom, healthy burrito bowls right in your own kitchen, packed with fresh ingredients and flavors tailored to your preferences. It’s the ultimate solution for a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly meal that tastes like a restaurant indulgence.
My Personal Culinary Highlights and Honorable Mentions from 2018
Beyond the reader favorites, some recipes hold a special place in my heart for their innovation, comfort, or sheer deliciousness. These are the dishes I found myself returning to, perfecting, and truly enjoying throughout the year, representing the diverse and delightful world of healthy eating:
- Christmas Cut-out Sugar Cookies: A festive classic reinvented, these cookies bring holiday cheer without compromising on dietary goals, offering a taste of tradition with a wholesome twist.
- Grain Free “Corn” Bread: This clever creation defies expectations, delivering the rustic comfort of cornbread in a grain-free, paleo-friendly format. It’s perfect as a side dish or paired with your favorite chili.
- Grain Free “Rice” Crispy Treats: A nostalgic treat, reimagined! These crispy delights prove that childhood favorites can be made healthier and still retain all their irresistible charm, a fantastic option for a sweet, simple snack.
- Cauliflower Pumpkin Risotto: A sophisticated yet comforting dish, this risotto cleverly uses cauliflower to create a creamy texture, while pumpkin adds a beautiful autumnal flavor and a boost of nutrients. It’s elegant and surprisingly easy to make.
- Crispy Chicken Nuggets: A healthier, homemade version of a beloved fast-food classic, these nuggets are perfect for kids and adults alike. They’re crispy, satisfying, and comply with Paleo and AIP guidelines, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
Unbound Wellness: A Comprehensive Year in Review (2018)
Milestones and Growth for UnboundWellness.com
2018 was a year of unprecedented growth and exciting developments for Unbound Wellness. Each milestone achieved was a direct reflection of the incredible support and engagement from our dedicated community.
1. Pageviews Increased by a Staggering 95%!
To see over 1.6 million people visit this little corner of the internet this year is nothing short of breathtaking. This statistic isn’t just a number; it represents a growing community of individuals seeking healthier lifestyles, finding inspiration, and discovering delicious, nourishing recipes. It signifies that the message of holistic wellness and the power of food is resonating deeply, and for that, I am unspeakably grateful. Your trust and consistent visits make all this possible, and it motivates me to continue delivering valuable content.
2. The Launch of Autoimmune Protocol Makeover Ebook
A significant highlight was the successful launch of my new ebook, Autoimmune Protocol Makeover. This comprehensive guide was crafted with immense care and dedication to provide practical, accessible resources for those navigating the Autoimmune Protocol. It aims to demystify AIP, making the journey simpler, more enjoyable, and truly transformative. You can explore this invaluable resource and begin your own makeover right here!
3. An Exciting, Transformative Project on the Horizon
Behind the scenes, 2018 also involved embarking on an incredibly exciting and substantial project. This endeavor has been a labor of love, requiring significant time and energy, and I am absolutely brimming with anticipation to share it with you all in 2019! It promises to bring even more value and resources to the Unbound Wellness community, and I assure you, it will be worth the wait.
A Look Back: Significant Personal Milestones in 2018
Beyond the blog, 2018 was a year of profound personal growth and significant life changes that deeply influenced my perspective and commitment to wellness.
1. My Diagnosis with OCD
One of the most impactful personal events of the year was receiving a diagnosis of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). This journey brought challenges but also immense understanding and an even deeper appreciation for mental health. It underscored the holistic nature of wellness – that physical health and mental well-being are intrinsically linked. I openly shared my experience in a dedicated blog post, hoping to foster a sense of community and reduce stigma around mental health discussions. You can read my full story and insights here.
2. An Enriching Food Photography Workshop in Paris
A personal highlight was the opportunity to travel to Paris for an intensive food photography workshop. This experience was not only a dream come true but also an invaluable investment in enhancing the visual storytelling of Unbound Wellness. Learning new techniques and honing my craft means I can present recipes to you in an even more appealing and inspiring way. The magic of Paris and the vibrant culinary education truly fueled my creative spirit. Relive my Parisian adventure here!
3. Officially Transitioning to Full-Time with Unbound Wellness!
Perhaps one of the most monumental steps of the year was officially transitioning to dedicate myself full-time to Unbound Wellness. This move was a leap of faith, a culmination of years of passion and hard work, and a profound commitment to this community. It means more time, energy, and focus can be poured into creating high-quality content, developing innovative recipes, and supporting your wellness journeys with even greater dedication.
4. My Husband and I Purchased a New Home!
As a wonderfully chaotic end to the year, my husband and I closed on a new house just this week! This wasn’t a big geographical move, as we’re staying in the same beloved area, but it signifies a significant new chapter. The new space will provide a dedicated environment for creative work, recipe development, and photography, allowing Unbound Wellness to grow even further. It also represents another beautiful step towards growing our family – not a pregnancy announcement, but rather a hopeful step in preparing for “baby Hoover” in the future. I firmly believe that God has perfect timing for all things, and I trust fully in His plan for our lives and our family’s expansion.
Anticipating the Future: What’s to Come for Unbound Wellness in 2019
Looking ahead, 2019 promises to be another year of exciting growth, innovation, and deeper connection within the Unbound Wellness community. My commitment remains steadfast: to provide you with delicious, nourishing recipes and valuable resources that empower your health journey.
1. Unveiling the Big Project
The groundwork laid in 2018 for that major project will finally come to fruition. I promise it’s something I’ve poured my heart into, and I truly believe it will be an incredible asset for many of you. Get ready for an exciting reveal that aims to elevate your wellness experience!
2. More Diverse Recipes and Engaging Recipe Videos
Once the initial projects are off my plate, I am eager to dive back into creating an even wider array of delicious and health-supportive recipes. A key focus will be to double down on producing more engaging recipe videos. I personally love watching them for inspiration and learning, and I believe they offer an invaluable way to guide you through the cooking process, making healthy eating more accessible and enjoyable. I’ve also been contemplating the launch of a dedicated YouTube channel to host these videos and potentially explore other wellness topics in a dynamic format. Your feedback is crucial here: If a YouTube channel sounds appealing to you, please let me know in the comments below!
3. A Fresh Look: Website Redesign for Unbound Wellness
After navigating the excitement of purchasing a new home, one of my next big goals is to initiate a complete website redesign for Unbound Wellness. This platform has grown immensely, and a fresh, modern look and enhanced user experience are certainly in order. A redesign will improve navigation, optimize for mobile devices, and simply make your visits here even more enjoyable and efficient. Stay tuned for a cleaner, more intuitive Unbound Wellness experience!
4. Embracing the Unforeseen: Whatever God Has in Store
While planning and setting goals are important, I also firmly believe in the journey of life unfolding as it’s meant to. I don’t claim to have every detail figured out for 2019. I know that just as He does every year, God will undoubtedly bring surprises, unexpected blessings, and new lessons. All I can do is continue to trust in His perfect timing and guiding hand, remaining open to the path He sets before me.
Once again, words cannot fully express my gratitude for your presence here. Your unwavering friendship, incredible support, and thoughtful comments mean the absolute world to me. It is an honor to share this journey with you, and I eagerly anticipate all the new recipes, insights, and connections we will forge together in 2019!
I’d love to hear from you! What were some of your personal favorite discoveries or achievements in 2018? And what are you most looking forward to in 2019, both in your own life and from Unbound Wellness?
Your insights are incredibly valuable! If you have any specific requests for content or recipes in 2019, please consider sharing them in my reader survey. Your input helps shape the future of Unbound Wellness!