I just spent an amazing weekend in Vermont with some of my very best lady friends. It is always an amazing feeling to spend time with those that you love, the ease in which you communicate and the instantaneous closeness that falls over you, even when you haven't seen one another in a long time. It makes me miss my college days when we were only a step away from one another instead of plane trips and car rides.

When we get together we don't skimp on fun, food, or drinks and although I follow an alkaline lifestyle, I still indulge in the richness of the experience and usually wind up eating way too much! When i come home it takes a little bit of an easing in process to get back on track.

Today I worked out and then decided to start that so called easing in process by creating a simple dish that is big on flavor but also light and fresh. Eggplant is a filling vegetable with a dense texture, when it is grilled it takes on a smoky flavor that is just right paired with the peppery quality of arugula, juicy tomatoes, and creamy fresh mozzarella.

In honor of the easing in process, a little dessert seemed in order. After a weekend filled with indulgence we sometimes feel that we need to jump right back in to our diets but in reality I like to slide back into healthy eating so that I do not ever feel deprived. Grilled pineapple is amazing on its own and with the addition of a little vanilla bean gelato it was divine. I hope that you enjoy!

Grilled Eggplant with Tomato, Mozzarella and Lemon Arugula

2 Eggplants, sliced into rounds

1/2 tsp Garlic Powder

1/2 tsp Pink Himalaya Sea Salt

2 tbs Olive Oil

2 Tomatoes, Sliced

Fresh Mozzarella, Sliced

1 cup Arugula

1/2 of a lemon, juiced

Dried basil for garnish

Pre heat your grill of a grill pan. Slice the eggplant and toss with the olive oil, garlic powder, and salt. Arrange in the grill pan, grilling each side for about 5 minutes or until the eggplant is soft throughout.

Meanwhile, slice the tomato and mozzarella and place to the side. Take the arugula, toss with a drizzle of olive oil, a dash of sea salt, and the juice from half of a lemon.

Plate: Place the arugula on a plate. Top with one slice of eggplant, a slice of tomato, a slice of mozzarella, a little arugula and a second slice of eggplant. Drizzle with olive oil and a little dried basil and enjoy!

Grilled Pineapple with Vanilla Bean Gelato, Sliced Almonds and Coconut

For dessert, using your grill pan or grill, grill a few circular slices of pineapple to bring out the sweetness. Top with a scoop of gelato, ice cream, or yogurt and top with sliced almonds and coconut. Enjoy and healthy eating!