The In Between Week - Mini Episode 2

Send us Fan Mail🎙️ Episode 2: Eating Without Tracking — Using the PPP Plate(Protein • Produce • Pleasure)The week between Christmas and New Year’s can make tracking food feel overwhelming — but not tracking can feel just as stressful. In this episode, I share how I eat without logging a single bite and still feel grounded, confident, and in control.I walk you through the PPP plate (Protein, Produce, Pleasure) — a simple, realistic framework I use during busy, food-filled weeks when routines are off and perfection isn’t the goal. This approach helps you navigate parties, potlucks, and everyday meals with intention instead of guilt, while still supporting energy, fullness, and consistency.To make this week easier, I’m sharing two of my go-to recipes that align perfectly with the PPP method — one fresh, satisfying salad and one cozy, low-effort crockpot soup you can rely on when decision fatigue is high.Recipes Featured in This Episode🥗 Thai Chicken Peanut Salad This is one of my favorite balanced meals when I want something flavorful and filling without overthinking food.Thai Chicken Peanut Salad – 30g protein, packed with flavor, ready in 3 minutes.Sauce (choose one):Trader Joe’s shortcut: 2 tbsp Trader Joe’s Peanut Sauce thinned with 2 tbsp waterDIY: 2 tbsp peanut butter, 1 tsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 tsp tamari, 2 tbsp waterToss with 2/3c coleslaw mix, 15g cucumber, 15g red bell pepper, green onion, and 5 oz cooked chicken breast. Dice, toss, and enjoy!  Time saver: Cook once, eat twice.🍲 Bonus Crockpot Soup (Low-Effort, High Return) I’ve included a simple crockpot soup recipe in the show notes for days when you want a nourishing dinner without spending time in the kitchen.Protein: lean chickenProduce: vegetables that cook down into a comforting, hearty baseEase: minimal prep, dump-and-go, and great for leftoversThis is the kind of meal that supports consistency during busy weeks — warm, grounding, and satisfying without feeling heavy.Easy Gluten-Free Crockpot Chicken Parmesan SoupThis cozy, dump-and-go crockpot soup brings all the classic chicken parmesan flavors — without the breading and completely gluten-free. It’s perfect for busy weeks, meal prep, or when you want comfort food with minimal effort.Why you’ll love it:Gluten-freeSlow cooker friendlyMinimal prepFamily-approved comfort foodIngredients:1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)1 (24 oz) jar gluten-free marinara sauce4 cups gluten-free chicken broth1 tsp Italian seasoning1/2 tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves minced)Salt & pepper, to taste1 cup shredded mozzarella1/2 cup grated ParmesanOptional Add-Ins:Chopped zucchini or spinachGluten-free pastaRed pepper flakesDirections:Add chicken, marinara, broth, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.Shred the chicken and return it to the soup.Add veggies or gluten-free pasta during the last 30–40 minutes.Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy.Finish with extra cheese and fresh basil if you have it — and enjoy!I don’t lose progress when I stop tracking — I lose progress when I stop eating intentionally. Using the PPP plate and relying on simple, balanced meals helps me stay calm, confident, and connected to my goals during the in-between week and beyond. I'd love and appreciate a 5 star review, and sharing my content with a friend who might love to listen!Find me on Instagram for daily life, tips and fun content: @wellness.with.virginiaHelpful Links:Join my 21 Day Reset: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=wellnesswithvirginiaWant to try a FREE workout and try my FAVORITE seasonal crock pot dishes?Free FASTer Way 30-Minute Workout: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/workout-free?aid=wellnesswithvirginiaFree Crockpot Meal Guide: https://www.fasterwaytofatloss.com/guide/crockpot-meals?aid=wellnesswithvirginiaMy favorite high quality protein use this for a discount!https://www.equipfoods.com/WELLNESSWITHVIRGINIA