We’re midway through January — how are those resolutions going? I’ve always been more in the mindset that if I don’t MAKE resolutions, I can’t BREAK them (such a cop-out, I know). I’m more interested in the idea of doing things that are good for you because you enjoy them. Because let’s face it — if you hate doing something, chances are you aren’t going to keep doing it.

Case in point: I hate spinning. Loathe it. Every time I set foot in a spinning class, the first thing that goes through my head is “THIS IS THE WORST DECISION I’VE MADE ALL DAY!” I don’t like spinning during class, I don’t like how I feel after class. There is nothing redeeming to me about it at all — fitness benefits, be damned!

Instead, I do what I like. Yoga, cardio in the form of step classes or treadmill runs, and a ballet-style workout called Ballet Beautiful. The more I do these things, the more I actually work out. I even bought myself this silly pair of ballet slippers to wear during the workout because if all else fails, I can always be persuaded with cute shoes.

Similarly, you will never find me eating a bland dish just because it’s healthy. Personally, the deprivation diet tactic has never been sustainable for me. I’d rather eat what I enjoy and hold myself accountable for finding balance than go cold turkey and give up on sugar or carbs or gluten or whatever. Lately I’ve been on a carrot juice kick — it helps me curb cravings for refined sugar because it’s naturally sweet and (most importantly) I enjoy drinking it. Highly recommended!

I wanted to share a few of my favorite recipes that don’t taste like cardboard (in fact, they taste delicious) but can still keep you on track as we round out the dreaded first month 0f resolutions. Enjoy!

Baked Falafel — This is a recipe from my friend Emily’s blog, which I’ve been using for a few years. I typically toss all of the ingredients except the onion into my food processor, which makes whipping these up a breeze. Stir in diced onion after everything else is mixed to maintain a nice contrast in the falafel patties. Serve on flatbreads or pita bread with tabouli!

Cabbage and White Bean Soup — We tried this simple and delicious soup from Food52 last week, and I was really surprised by how flavorful it was. I think people are sometimes turned off by the image of cabbage soup, but don’t be! It’s perfect for a cold day and is chock-full of delicious veggies!

Thai Beef Salad — One of Mark Bittman’s recipes that I revisit over and over. A cool, crisp salad with a little bit of a punch.

Poached Cod with Tomato and Saffron — Cod is one of my favorite fishes because you don’t have to do a whole lot to it to make it delicious. On its own, it has a mild flavor with a flaky and buttery texture. Poach it in this delicate tomato, white wine and saffron liquid and you’re good to go! Hearty flavor without heavy ingredients.

Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookies — Because you’ve been good enough. Cut this recipe in half, portion out a few cookies for yourself, and bring the rest in to your office to share. You’ll be keeping your healthy(ish) resolution AND scoring brownie points at the same time! Win-win.