On The Menu: Schmaltzy Tomatoes with Chicken Thighs, Sea Bass & Summer Thai Curry
Sunday Meal Prep | Week of June 29th
On Friday, I shared a bit about my personal journey to reclaim my body after having kids. Back in grad school, we were taught to never make it about ourselves. That stuck with me. My job is to support you, not make it about me. But over the years, I’ve realized that my lived experience is part of what makes me good at this. I’m patient zero. I know what it’s like to navigate nutrition in real life—pregnancy, postpartum, stress, travel, moving cities (and countries).
That said, this isn’t just about motherhood. The themes (wanting to feel stronger, more energized, more like yourself) are universal. No matter where you are in life, I hope something in my story resonates.
A quick note on something that came up in the comments: weight lifting and “bulking.” Some women naturally build muscle more easily or have body types where it’s more visible—but for most, gaining too much muscle is unlikely.
Still, I recommend getting a DEXA scan and a hormone panel. If your muscle mass is already high, you might adjust your training goals. And if your androgens (like testosterone) are elevated—like in PCOS—it can sometimes contribute to a bulkier feeling.
Strength training supports metabolism and fat loss, but most fat loss still comes down to nutrition. So again: get a DEXA. It’s the best way to understand your baseline.
Speaking of diet (and the comment section from Friday’s post), someone asked in the comments if my diet has changed much throughout this “body reclamation” process. Honestly, not really. But that’s not because diets shouldn’t evolve (they absolutely should). It’s more a reflection of the years I’ve spent studying nutrition and fine-tuning what works for me. The things I rely on most are the same ones I talk about constantly here in this meal prep series (and pretty much all my posts). They’re not sexy, but they work:
More home-cooked meals: Hands down the best thing you can do for your health.
Prioritize protein: For energy, fewer cravings, blood sugar balance, and muscle maintenance.
Eat a variety of plants: For fiber, micronutrients, and your gut.
I know cooking at home can feel like a lot. But I’m here to help make it easier—and more enjoyable. I try to elevate these dishes while keeping them approachable, so you can feel excited about cooking dinner.
Nutrition science can feel clinical and, frankly, a little sterile. I’m more interested in the beauty of it all: the vibrant colors at the farmers market, gorgeous salads served in gorgeous bowls, a nourishing meal shared with people you love. When you genuinely enjoy the process and the food, it’s easier to prioritize.
Okat, that’s my little rant for today. Sending love—and lots of home-cooked meals—your way. (The recipes this week are banging. Don’t miss them.)
xx Mia
A few meal-prep adjacent things I’m currently into:
I’ve been experimenting with some new face cleansers and I’m obsessed with both Goop’s new Daily Detox Foaming Cleanser and Wonder Valley’s Oil Cleanser (yes, the olive oil people, and yes, it’s incredible). Goop’s feels like a deep clean—I love it in the shower. Wonder Valley’s is luxurious and perfect for dissolving makeup and SPF at the end of the day.
Ever since last week’s dinner with Carly of
I’ve been craving Asian flavors and working on some new summer recipes. I can’t get enough of ponzu right now—it’s salty, citrusy, and so good in marinades and sauces. I like the Muso from Japan brand. Stock up…it’s definitely making an appearance in an upcoming Sunday menu.We also have a big trip planned this summer, so I’ve been on the hunt for cute, packable, and fun summer staples:
Jelly flip flops (yes, I caved and I got them)
These gorgeous sandals (that are sold out in my size, sob)
A gingham shift dress from Dôen (these shorts too, which I already wear every day).
This summer bag I’ve wanted years
Another paracord anklet, because one isn’t enough
Alright, now let’s talk summer food.
This Friday is a holiday, and I know many of you are either traveling or just trying to stay cool in the summer heat. So this week’s menu is light and easy—but never boring. Think: a simple summer curry, the most epic pasta salad with grilled shrimp, and chicken thighs with schmaltzy burst tomatoes.
Happy cooking!
