Spring Pesto Pasta Salad

The past few months, I made a promise to myself that I would start putting my health first, both physical and mental. I have always been an active person, having played tennis my entire life, but I got into a rut after my college career was over. I’d be lying if I said the transition was easy. Adjusting my eating habits was difficult, going from an athlete who trained at least four hours a day to a woman in the work force with maybe an hour or two to workout.

Everyone’s body is different. I am short and muscular with an hourglass body type, so trying to achieve the same figure as a woman who wears a size 2 and is six feet tall is completely unattainable for me. Everyone is unique, and it took me a while to learn to understand that my needs won’t look like someone else’s.

This is what worked for ME! I am no nutritionist or personal trainer…I want to make that clear!

I upped my protein and carb intake, and lowered my fat intake. With the amount of fish, avocado, and nuts I eat, and healthy fats I cook with, I was getting more than enough fat in my diet. However, upping my protein and carb intake made me feel full longer and gave me enough energy to get through both my cardio and weight lifting workouts.

This year, I have also cut out alcohol completely. I really wanted to see how far I could push myself and test what my body was capable of achieving. I didn’t want all of my hard work during the week to go to waste during one night of drinking on the weekends. Immediately, I noticed a difference. So much of my dehydration, bloating, and stomach issues were a direct result of bloating. My skin has cleared up, I have slept better, and I have had more energy. Again, that is just what has worked for me!

This Spring Pesto Pasta Salad is a yummy example of an on-the-go lunch. It is quick, filling, and can easily be prepped in advance. I hope you try it!