Baked Plantain Tostones with Two Salsas

Breaking Free from the Dieting Mentality: A Path to True Nourishment

Have you ever felt trapped by the endless cycle of dieting? The control, restriction, and guilt can feel overwhelming, especially in today’s world where social media constantly pushes the “next big thing” in health.

The Dieting Mentality in the Social Media Era

Scroll through Instagram, and you’ll find countless claims of the “ultimate” diet—keto, raw vegan, intermittent fasting, and so much more. Each promises perfection, but most come without real science, sustainability, or acknowledgment of YOUR unique needs.

The result? Confusion, pressure, and an endless chase for a version of health that might not even be right for you.

It’s easy to get caught up in these trends, feeling like you’re never enough or not doing it right. But the truth is, dieting often focuses on control, punishment, and perfectionism—none of which are pathways to real health or happiness.

A Shift in Focus

What if we approached food and health differently? What if, instead of chasing trends, we chose to reconnect with our bodies and nourish them in a way that aligns with how God created us?

Here are four ways to start breaking free from the dieting mentality today:

1️⃣ Ask what your body truly needs: Pause before meals and listen. Are you hungry, thirsty, or simply craving comfort? Honoring your body starts with understanding it.

2️⃣ Focus on abundance: Instead of thinking about what you can’t eat, think about what you can add to your plate. Vibrant, whole plant-based foods can be both satisfying and healing.

3️⃣ Unfollow triggers: If social media makes you feel less-than or pressures you to conform, it’s time to hit unfollow. Your health journey is YOURS, and it doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.

4️⃣ Invite God into your journey: True freedom comes from surrendering control and trusting God’s wisdom. Pray for guidance, strength, and clarity as you care for the body He so wonderfully created.

True Nourishment and Connection at My Retreats

Breaking free from the dieting mentality isn’t always easy, but it’s absolutely possible—and you don’t have to do it alone.

At my retreats, we dive deep into the journey of food freedom and self-discovery. Imagine:
🌿 Nourishing meals that energize and heal.
🌿 Workshops to help you unlearn diet culture and rebuild trust with your body.
🌿 A supportive community of like-minded individuals who understand your journey.
🌿 Space to reconnect with God, nature, and your purpose.

These retreats aren’t just about food; they’re about freedom, connection, and stepping into the vibrant life you were made for.

If this resonates with you, I’d love to invite you to join me. [Click here to learn more about my upcoming retreats]

Together, let’s leave behind the dieting mentality and embrace true nourishment—for our bodies, minds, and spirits.

Blessings,
Damian

What’s Your Next Step?
If you’re ready to take the first step, try out my new recipe [here](insert link) and start shifting your mindset toward abundance and freedom. I’d love to hear how it’s going for you—feel free to comment below or connect with me on Instagram!

Now let's dive into the recipe.

Ingredients

For the Tostones:

• 4-5 green plantains
• Parchment paper

For the Pico de Gallo:

• 1 large tomato
• 1/2 onion
• 1 bell pepper
• 1 small bunch cilantro
• 3-4 limes
• Salt to taste
• Optional: fresh chilies

For the Avocado-Cilantro Crema:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 4-5 tablespoons fermented cashew cream
• 1 large bunch cilantro
• 2 limes
• 2 garlic cloves
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed

Instructions

For the Tostones:

1. Peel plantains and cut into 1-1.5 inch thick pieces
2. Place on parchment-lined baking tray, leaving space between pieces
3. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes until soft
4. Remove from oven, cover with parchment paper and flatten with a flat-bottomed cup
5. Return to oven for 5-8 minutes until crispy

For the Pico de Gallo:

1. Finely chop tomato, onion, and bell pepper
2. Finely chop cilantro
3. Combine vegetables with lime juice and salt
4. Optional: add finely chopped chilies

For the Avocado-Cilantro Crema:

1. Prepare fermented cashew cream: blend cashews with water and let ferment overnight (or add probiotics to speed up process)
2. In a blender, combine avocado, fermented cashew cream, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and salt
3. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed for desired consistency

To Serve:

Arrange tostones on a platter with both salsas in separate bowls. Optional: serve with additional vegetables for dipping.