Motherhood Balance

Hello to our amazing Desired Health community!

Nothing says spring in Minnesota like green grass, budding trees, and the hint of the colors and fragrance from all things flowering 😊 We hope you have a favorite and get to enjoy it while spending time outside and absorbing that awesome Vitamin D!!

Clinic Updates

Our Next Class & Patient Appreciation Reminder

Our next Motherhood Balance event takes place on Saturday, May 3, from 10-11 AM at our clinic in Anoka. The focus is on pre & post-natal wellness, to support a healthy and natural pregnancy and post-partum experience. Use the QR code below to sign up today!

Our Patient Appreciation Deal is available until May 1!

You have one more week to receive 20% off our wellness plans 😊 This is a great way to maximize your family’s healthcare goals and incorporate the benefits of chiropractic care into your lifestyle. Let’s put your health savings into action now!

Community Scan – Outdoor Family Fun

Are you looking for ways to incorporate purpose + family time + sunshine into your outings in the month of May? Look no further than the suggestions below. While specific events are still being finalized, here are some general ideas of the types of events that are sure to combine all your goals into one:

Park Openings and Spring Celebrations: As the weather warms up, Anoka County Parks often host events to celebrate the arrival of spring and the full opening of their facilities. These could include nature walks, guided hikes, and family-friendly activities. Keep an eye on the Anoka County Parks website for their 2025 Spring/Summer Activity Guide.

Farmers Markets (Early Season): While some larger farmers markets might start a bit later in May or June, smaller community markets sometimes begin in early May. These offer a great outdoor family outing, allowing you to support local vendors and enjoy fresh produce. The “Farmers Market on the Rum” in Anoka starts later in June, with other local markets having earlier start dates.

Outdoor Concerts or Music Events (Early Season): Some communities or local venues might start hosting outdoor music events in early May as the evenings become milder. Check local event listings for possibilities. Coon Rapids and Ramsey have some great performers each season!

Fishing-Related Events: With fishing season opening, there might be family fishing clinics or derbies organized at some of the lakes or parks in Anoka County. A “Kids Fishing Clinic” is listed in Coon Rapids for May 6,2025,

Bike Events or Trail Activities: Early May is a pleasant time for biking. Anoka County Parks have extensive trails, and there might be organized family bike rides or events promoting cycling. Either way, make time to hit the trails!

Tantalize Your Tastebuds

Dinner Recipe of the Month: Lemon Herb Chicken and Asparagus Pasta

Here’s a great dinner option to bring delicious nutrients to your active family after a great day outside together. This dish is bright, flavorful, and incorporates the season’s delicious asparagus. You can easily adapt it with other spring vegetables your family enjoys, like peas or snap peas.

Yields: 4-6 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 pound pasta (such as penne, rotini, or farfalle)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, dill, or a mix)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté the chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add garlic and asparagus: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the asparagus pieces and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until tender-crisp and bright green.
4. Make the sauce: Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice into the skillet. Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine.
5. Add herbs and cheese: Stir in the chopped fresh herbs and the Parmesan cheese. If the pasta seems a little dry, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce. Season with more salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Divide the pasta among plates. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.

Tips and Variations:

• Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other spring vegetables like frozen peas (stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking), snap peas, or chopped bell peppers.
• Make it creamy: For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet along with the garlic for a little heat.
• Vegetarian option: Omit the chicken and add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans or chickpeas for protein. You could also add some sautéed mushrooms.
• Make it ahead: You can cook the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta fresh and then combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

Enjoy this fresh and flavorful spring dinner with your family!

We Appreciate You!

Thank You for Being Part of Our Community!

We’re excited to continue being part of your health and wellness story. If you have any questions or need to schedule an appointment, feel free to reach out.

Wishing you all a joyful, healthy, and peaceful rest of the week!

Dr. Desiree & the Desired Health Team