Nike Launches Air Zoom Pegasus 33!

We love a good Nike launch here at H&H, so we are thrilled to let you all know about their latest kicks to join the Nike family that are already on our wish list!

At last the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 33 is here: a shoe proven to go the distance. It is available from Nike in both the Classic and Jungle Pack colour for £100. The Pegasus is already one of Nike’s most famous and popular shoes, which Mo Farah relies on to provide a “secure, light and faster performance”.

Air zoon pegasus 33

The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 33 is the latest Nike shoe to be produced, with it being renowned for its smooth and responsive ride. It has double the zoom air in order to allow you to be more responsive when you run.

The Pegasus 33 contains Nike Zoom Air pockets in the forefoot of the shoe’s midsole, along with additional Zoom Air units in the heel. This latest technology is designed to make running effortless, allowing you a greater range of movement and motion.

We hope that like Mo Farah and other competitive runners, you can find the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 33 a key component of your success! Get yourself a pair here!

 


Best Ways To Get Your OM on In London!

Yoga. To some, it’s simply a form of exercise… to others (and us); it’s a way of life that enriches the mind and soul, as well as the body. The real beauty of yoga is how differently it can affect people and how it fulfils everyone in such a unique way. You, for example, may find it really helps your body’s flexibility as you sit all day long at a desk, but your neighbour or work colleague may practice yoga for it’s positive mental offerings.

We love how there can be a class of 20-30 people all practising the same moves and sequences, and yet if you were to look inside each of their minds, everyone would be experiencing and feeling something different. You can be in your own little world and can essentially have a session tailored to your emotional and physical stance that day.

So, as it’s International Yoga Day, we thought we’d share with you some of our favourite places in London to get our OM on which hopefully will inspire you (if it hasn’t already) to explore the wonderful and rewarding world of Yoga!

 

Triyoga – Chelsea

A long lasting favourite of ours has to be Triyoga, Chelsea. There really is a class to suit everyone’s desires and their wide variety of inspirational instructors are second to none. Give us thier Vinyasa Flow Yoga class any day of the week! It’s also set in a perfect location for hitting local, healthy eateries such as The Good Life Eatery and Tanya’s!

 

The Power Yoga Company – Fulham

Tucked away in the pretty streets of SW6, expect classes at The Power Yoga Company to be intimate, cosy and nurturing for the soul. We love that you can grab a delicious, post-yoga smoothie or nibble at their Juice bar too! Everything on their menu is made by hand, and is free of dairy, eggs, gluten, soy and nasty preservatives.

 

Hotpod Yoga – Notting Hill, Hackney, Brixton

Hotpod yoga is definitely the one for those of you who love the heat mixed with something slightly out of the ordinary! Work off your weekend antics in their awesome, 20-person inflatable studios and step out of the 37 degrees heat feeling super-charged and detoxified!

 

Steffy White – Our favourite portable yogi!

Whenever we need a yoga session in the comfort of our home (because there are some days when you just want to zone out in your living room!), we call upon Steffy! Her warming nature and focus on building a healthy mind is why we really recommend her to anyone craving a soul-nourishing session. Don’t get us wrong; Steffy is no one-trick pony… you want to master a headstand or crow? She’s your girl. You want to have a physically demanding Ashtanga practice? She’s your girl! And it’s not just us who love her! Ella, founder of Deliciously Ella swears by her too!

These, of course, are just a selection of amazing ways to get your OM on so wherever you are, whatever practice you choose, we hope you have an amazing time celebrating International Yoga Day!

words by Molly Jennings


Win A Summer Juice Cleanse & £150 Hip & Healthy Voucher!

We’re so excited to let you all know that Hip and Healthy have partnered up with the super people at Plenish Cleanse to give you an awesome opportunity to win ‘Your Summer Fitness Kit’, which includes a £150 Hip and Healthy voucher, as well as a one month’s supply of Plenish Cleanse’s probiotic water and a Planish Cleanse! Woah!

Kara Rosen, founder of Plenish Cleanse has worked tirelessly to create an organic juice product, that wasn’t completely loaded with sugar (although natural) from fruit. After suffering from strep throat for over a year, Rosen discovered that the cure could lie in correct nutrition. As a result of this Plenish cleanse was born and is still rapidly growing today!

Plenish Cleanse has just released an innovative new probiotic water. A raw, dairy free, vegan probiotic drink that contains no additives, preservatives, dairy or sweeteners. This little wonder drink will help boost your body’s immunity, mood and skin. Yes please!

There are three variants of the water – zesty Lime Cucumber, refreshing Pineapple Ginger and juicy Blueberry Pear!

Penish Cleanse’s innovative probiotic water is devised with the help of nutritional experts to ensure it’s superb nutritional quality. Their probiotic water is created by placing high quality organic ingredients under pressure, rather than using heat to extract their nutritional goodness. This therefore means that every bottle of probiotic goodness is fresh and packed with nutrients.

Plenish Cleanse has also formulated a delicious juice cleanse which we think you’ll love! Devised by their in-house dietician, the juice cleanse is perfect for anyone wanting to re-energise and re-vitalise their bodies. There are three different cleanses depending on your specific goals, ranging from 1-7 days. The cleanses will have you drinking delicious, healthy and yummy juices, so get ready to feel lighter and full of energy!

 

In order to win your free one month’s supply of Water +, a Plenish Cleanse and a £150 voucher for Hip & Healthy, click here!

The competition closes on the 30th of June 2016.

 

 


Summer Solstice – How To Embrace The Longest Day Of 2016!

Today is officially the longest day of 2016! Boy, Summer Solstice has come around fast! Here at Hip and Healthy, we want to make sure you have the best day possible from start to finish, so we have come up with some top tips that will maximise your energy levels as well as reducing stress levels!

We’ve come up with a combination of foods and supplements in the hope that you will live the longest day of the year to the fullest! That of course is dependent on your energy levels! A frequently asked question we get is “what foods can help boost my energy levels?” Well, we have come up with a number of suggestions for you that are not only incredibly yummy, but will give you that burst of energy you are looking for to kick start your summer!

 

NUTRITION

Matcha
Match tea is a very simple way to add numerous health benefits to your diet. Matcha is an anti-oxidant powerhouse, allowing your body to fight off diseases to make sure you are in top health for summer!

There are many benefits of Matcha compared to loose leaf tea as you ingest the whole leaf when you drink it, receiving 100% of the nutrients contained within! When it comes to you achieving optimum health and boosting energy levels, there is no match for Matcha!

Lentils
Lentils are a large source of protein, full of fiber, and make a good base for an energy rich meal. Lentils are a popular food choice due to being a great vegan source of protein and high in nutritional value. Due to their complex carbohydrates and fiber, lentils increase slow-burning energy, providing you with vitality for Summer Solstice!

Maca Powder
Within only a few days of using Maca in your diet (we love it in smoothies!), your energy levels can dramatically increase. It’s a great supplement to use particularly if you do a lot of exercise as it’s known for increasing stamina (most of the top athletes will take Maca to boost their performance). Only very small amounts are needed to have an effect. As well as smoothies, we’ll pop a teaspoon or two in to juices, homemade nut mylks and porridge!

 

 

YOGA POSES

Another passion of ours (incase you didn’t know) is yoga, so we have recommended three of our top poses that we find increase energy and decrease fatigue. Many postures reduce stress and maximize your energy levels so you can achieve more out of your day!

Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Dog)
This pose is one of the most iconic poses and can be used at any level of ability. It allows the back of the body to open up and lengthen increasing your blood and oxygen flow to the brain, allowing you to become more energized. It is a very easy pose to do anywhere, particularly just at home, so we recommend adding a few throughout your day to feel the amazing benefits!

Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Bridge pose)
This pose is known for alleviating stress and clearing your head for the whole day ahead! The body is energized when holding this pose as lower body and the core is strengthened. The endocrine and nervous systems are also stimulated when holding this pose so you’re bound to feel full of life and energy!

Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Lord of the Fishes Pose)
This is a straightforward pose with a low difficulty level meaning it’s suitable for anyone! The more you practice this pose, the more advanced it gets, and the more benefits you will see. The twisting motion the pose involves, works both ends of the spine relieving discomfort, backache and fatigue. This reduction in fatigue will allow you to have more energy so you can achieve great things!

 

 

ACTIVITY

To put these yoga poses into practice, tonight you can join Steffy White and Frame at their 2016 Summer Solstice special yoga event! The Summer Solstice workshops take place in Frame’s Kings Cross and Victoria venus, providing you with a chance to spend 90 minutes reflecting on yourself and the season ahead. If you would like a more challenging class, Frame Shoreditch will be offering a 2 hour workshop focused on practicing 108 Sun Salutations (this workshop is not recommended to beginners).

You can book online now in order to get your class! You better be quick to get a spot!

words by Lara Jacobs


Carly Rowena – Fitspiration

We sat down with one of our favourite fitness bloggers, Carly Rowena, to discuss how she found her dream job as a personal trainer and how she motivates her clients!

What is your morning routine like?
My morning routine usually consists of a VERY early 5:30am wakeup call followed by a quick run with my french bulldog and my favourite Berrys and Oats Good Guru Breakfast, then it’s off to the gym to train my gorgeous clients and then myself, i never have much time so my workouts have to be quick and efficient which is why you’ll normally find me doing a circuit mixed with a cardio HIIT.

 

What advice do you give to your clients who struggle to find time to exercise?
There are never enough hours in the day for anyone and i totally understand that. When it comes to talking to my clients about finding time I generally ask them how often they watch tv or scroll through Facebook because that’s the time they could be working out. AND you don’t have to be in a gym, all you need is yourself… the world is your playground and your body is the machine.

 

What inspired you to give up your job in marketing?
My followers! I never knew that I wanted to be a personal trainer until I started making videos. I initially started with random topics and the fitness ones grabbed the most attention, 3 months in and my followers suggested that I started training people! It was a passion I didn’t know I had but one I am so happy to have found, it’s the best job in the world!

 

What do you love most about personal training?
I adore watching others grow in confidence, I don’t think of it as personal training, more as life coaching. I’ve watched my clients change their bodies, end and find new relationships and completely change careers due to the confidence they have found just from moving their bodies.

 

What advice would you give to anyone who feels unfulfilled in their current jobs?
Explore other options! I used to trawl google, even writing in the search bar ‘what is Carly’s Dream Job’! I never thought I was going to find it and was miserable. It wasn’t until I put myself out there and tried new things that the world ended up showing me my talent, let the world do that for you.

 

Are there any mantras you live by?
‘You Can’ – because quite simply there is nothing on this world that you can’t.

 

What does your day on a plate look like?
Oh I love food, it’s honestly one my favourite things and the reason why I have to train like I do. Breakfast is usually the same during the week because I have to be up so early and I have been loving The Good Guru oats and berry’s with some extra blueberries on top! Post workout I always have some almonds, a homemade mocha shake or a banana. Lunch is usually chicken with stir fried vegetables and dinner is either homemade chilli, fish with sweet potato mash or rice. There is always either some popcorn, a nakd bar or lindt chocolate in there somewhere!

What is your favourite thing to do on a weekend?
I long for the weekends, it’s my only ever chance to sleep past 8am and to go to the gym in my own time and for as long as I like. The weekend is when I make sure to put my family and friends first, real life is the best feeling, laughing so hard you think you might never stop!

 

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
‘Life is not an emergency’ – I get so swept up in the social media world that sometimes I forget that those 10 emails are not an emergency, that I can take a break if I need it, it’s so important to disconnect.

 

How do you unwind in the evenings?
I am a huge fan of the headspace app, that and playing with my dog while listening to Spotify. Sound is a huge chillout for me. TV and movies just get me excited so I try to unwind with chilled playlists and have some one of one time with my puppy steven! Before bed I always make sure to use my headspace app, it takes just 10 minutes and is the ultimate headrest.

Follow Carly Rowena on instagram and don’t forget to check out her daily antics on Youtube!


An Exotic Wellbeing Retreat Like No Other!

After travelling for weeks around India we were feeling slightly frazzled and were looking for a haven to retreat into, where we could slow down and enjoy some peace and quiet in a beautiful setting with good food, like-minded people, an adventurous spirit and inspiring activities. Enter Soul & Surf in Varkala in the South-West of India. An exotic wellbeing retreat whose characteristics embody all of these things.

 

Built for surfers and yogis alike, the cliff-top beach retreat has a relaxed vibe and a really special atmosphere. Set up in October of 2010, Soul & Surf, Varkala (the first of the Soul & Surf group) is the brainchild of a couple from the UK – Ed and Sofie Templeton who left their jobs to travel the world. Once they discovered the untouched surf of Kerala, they couldn’t leave. The Varkala retreat offers the perfect place for beginner and experienced surfers alike to enjoy the surf of India, while practicing yoga in their downtime to keep their bodies ready for more waves.

Each morning we would wake and meet in the early hours (around 6.30am!) for teas, coffees and bananas and then head out for our morning surf on the beautiful warm water coastlines. The surf instructors were passionate, encouraging and hugely knowledgeable and would mean that after two solid surfing weeks most people went from complete beginners to being able to get up on their boards and beginning to experiment with turns across the waves. At around 10.30am we would return to base-camp to be welcomed by the most incredible healthy but filling brunch spread to help us re-fuel; the freshest fruit, tea, keralan coffee, juice, bread and then a daily hot offering – think a mix of western classics like muesli or kedgeree with South Indian breakfasts like fragrant, spiced dosa with tomato dhal. The Soul & Surf cafe also stays open most of the day so if we were peckish a delicious snack or lunch was minutes away.

In the afternoon we could return for a second surf or make the afternoon our own by relaxing in the lush cliff-top gardens of Soul & Surf or renting a tuk-tuk and exploring more of Varkala. Come early evening, the daily sunset rooftop yoga class was the perfect way to wind down after a day of activity. No yoga class was the same from vinyasa flow to restorative yin to stretch out and counteract the hard day’s surf. During our stay we also enjoyed bonfires, barbecues, cliff-top outdoor film screenings of surf and feature films, homemade stone-baked pizza, live music evenings as well as relaxing massage and meditation sessions. It was heaven! When it came to be our time to leave we simply didn’t want to, we had found our real-life paradise. For added karma, the place is also committed to giving something back firstly to their surf club for village kids, locally as well as supporting the charity SISP in Kerala and commitment to donate 1% For The Planet.

Soul & Surf

As well as their home base in Varkala, India, Soul & Surf also pops up all over the world when they find somewhere really special. From the South-West coast of Sri Lanka (so successful that last November the set-up became permanent) to Little Andaman, a far-flung, untouched island in the middle of the Bay of Bengal for a wilder more adventurous trip. And if you’re looking for a trip which doesn’t commit you to a long-haul flight then Soul & Surf also often appears closer to home, with past destinations including Cornwall and their most recent in Portugal, which we promptly signed ourselves up for! Arranged by Soul & Surfers Adam and Rachel we found the whole Soul & Surf Indian experience transported overseas, staying in a beautifully protected natural reserve in the South-West tip of portugal in the village of Figueira. We enjoyed brilliant surf and company, relaxing yoga and some of the tastiest food we’ve ever eaten, courtesy of the talented Millie. Mid-way through the week we had a day off from surfing which we used to explore the surrounding area with off-road runs and mountain biking over the incredible coastlines. One spectacular morning we even walked down to our own private beach for a yoga practice with Rachel – an immersive outdoor experience like no other surrounded by the sun, sea and sand where you really felt connected to nature and your practise. It truly is a magical and exotic wellbeing retreat like no other.

And those special experiences with like-minded people are what really defines everything you’ll find at Soul & Surf, no matter the location. Plus, unlike many wellbeing breaks, the prices won’t send your blood pressure skywards. A week’s stay includes accommodation, breakfast, daily surf guiding, mineral water and use of yoga mats and daily yoga sessions. Additional yoga and any massage or treatments are extra and can be purchased on a daily basis.

Having such a memorable time with Soul & Surf we decided to steal 10 minutes with the co-founder Ed Templeton to get the inside scoop of how with his wife he has created such a goldust experience for healthy travellers:

 

What led to you coming out to India and deciding to set-up Soul & Surf?
The need to leave behind the 60hr week, stressful business I ran before, to slow down a bit, to travel, to have the time and space to connect with the moment through surf, through yoga with a bit of meditation. Whilst on that trip with my wife Sofie we hit upon the idea of a way to extend the trip by setting up a very low key surf & yoga retreat in off the beaten track (surf-wise at least) in Varkala, Kerala.

 

What made you pick Varkala to be the first place to set up Soul & Surf and what was your vision for it?
On our round-the-world surf trip we spent 3 months in Varkala. We felt really at home there, Sofie completed her yoga teacher training nearby and I surfed alone every single day without seeing another surfer. The vision at the time was just a short-term extension of our adventure. No long term business aspirations, just the desire to surf & practice yoga every day

 

What kind of traveller is Soul & Surf made for?
Someone who still wants a bit of adventure, to connect with a place with a culture in the way travellers do, but maybe someone who has a bit less time these days to arrange an off the cuff, full-on travel experience.

 

The friendly, authentic community vibe blew us away – do you think this is quite a unique thing to Soul & Surf?
It blows us away on a daily basis. The genuine feeling of community is for us, and many of our guests, the most rewarding part. It’s the surf, the yoga and the location that initially attracts people, but that kind of ‘preselection’ means that there are like-minded people from all over the place, staff & guests alike hanging out, sharing stories, ideas and inspiration.

I’m not sure if it’s unique to us, but it is definitely the thing that makes it a very special part of our guest’s experience.

 

When would you recommend to visit?
For wave size and consistency it’s best in October, November, March, April, May. For endless sunny days and cooler evenings but less consistent waves and lots more tourists December, January & February.

 

We hear you have just opened up in Sri Lanka? Tell me more!
Yes, we’ve done Pop-Ups there for the last 3 years and finally took the plunge to open full time, year round here last November. The property we use here is higher spec, with swimming pools and beautiful architecture so we run a higher-end week long surf & yoga retreat operation in Sri Lanka, but with similar aims of laid back but attentive hospitality, great food, great staff and to find and create that intangible ‘community’ vibe.

wwww.soulandsurf.com / www.facebook.com/SoulandSurf


Steal Their Style – Our Fave Insta Fit Fashionistas!

At Hip and Healthy, we are all about taking inspiration from our favourite instagrammers! There’s nothing better to kickstart our motivation than stealing a few style tips from these insta fitties who have a workout wardrobe to die for! Plus, they’ve all been spotted wearing kit from our store so you know where to look if you’re ever in need of some fresh new gear!

 

Lydia Elise Millen @lydiaemillen
The first chic and stylish blogger we can all take inspiration from is Lydia Elise Millen. Lydia, a lifestyle, health, fashion and fitness blogger began her journey to health and happiness in 2011. Since then, Lydia has taken the fashion industry by storm, but has recently really got into the world of fit-fashion! Lydia’s blog beautifully covers how to live well and happy and she’s even been spotting wearing our exclusive (and hard to get hold of) Tully Lou Parna Pants!

 

Tiffany Watson @tiffanyc_watson
Tiffany Watson may be renowned for her role on Made In Chelsea, however there is no denying that Tiffany has made quite a mark in the health and wellbeing industry with her beautiful blog, featuring all things yoga, food and lifestyle. Tiffany has also just luanched, in partnership with Multipower and Lonan O’herlihy, an amazing new bootcamp called Tonan. Tonan, held weekly at the Budokwai centre in Chelsea, is perfect for anyone looking to tone up and feel empowered, happy and energized!

 

Samantha Angelo – The Eye Travels @samantha_angelo
Samantha Angelo inspires us all with her tales, of health, fashion, music and travel. Enchanted by self-expression and individuality, Samantha’s passion and flair for life shines through in every blog post. “The Eye Travels” brings fantasy to fashion and romanticism in living the life you’ve dreamed up.” We just love scrolling through her insta!

 

Naturally Sassy @naturally.sassy
We have to say Naturally Sassy is a particular favourite of ours! As a professional ballet dancer, Sassy’s journey began through the discovery of using the correct nutrition to fuel and heal her body. Sassy’s healthy philosophy stretches far beyond that of simply looking good – she inspires us all to energise our bodies with the healing properties of delicious and nutritious food.

 

Dress Like a Mum @dresslikeamum
Dress like a Mum is definitely one for you mummy’s out there! Zoe, founder of Dress Like a Mum, seeks to campaign to change the assumption that after having a baby or two, mothers lose their style and flair for fashion. Zoe proves to us all, that despite having two children, a hectic schedule and a career, that mothers should never have to sacrifice their look! She is seriously inspiring at loves rocking out in our Mara Hoffman leggings!

 

Michon Van As @michonvanas
International model Michon Van As is perfect to follow for travel inspiration! However, be warned… your eyes may turn green with envy at the sight of her toned pins and amazing photo shoots!

 

Camilla Akerberg @camilla_akerberg
Online fitness and nutrition coach, blogger and model; Camilla Akerberg is one to follow to really kick start your motivation to be the best version of you. One look at her toned abs, you’ll be running to the gym! She’s often sporting a L’urv Sportswear outfit from time to time too! So if you want to nab her fit style then head over to our store to check out our curated selection of L’urv Sportswear!

 

Ellie Lemons @ellielemons
Personal trainer and health coach Ellie Lemons offers us an insight into her world of health and nutrition! With a bachelor in Health Science, Ellie’s expertise are worth following to help you achieve the body you want and a happy and healthy mindset. She’s loves to stay fit and never fails to look good while doing so!


Day On A Plate – Nina Parker

The lovely Nina Parker, culinary writer and author of Nina St Tropez & Nina Capri (and this week’s guest editor!) shares with us, her typical day on a plate! If you could ever be jealous of a day on a plate, it would be this one!

 

Breakfast

Brekkie for me totally depends on the day of the week. If I have deliveries then it is usually a banana and spelt toast or if I have a free morning at my computer then I have a delicious homemade breakfast smoothie. Smoothies are often made with a combination of almond milk, oats, almond butter, bananas, frozen raspberries, pinch of ground cinnamon or vanilla extract. I want one just thinking about it! Weekends I tend to go the whole hog and enjoy ricotta pancakes or poached eggs, smoked salmon and toasted sourdough. I am particularly fond of the ricotta hotcakes at Granger and Co.

 

Lunch

I spend most of my time in the kitchen so it is pretty easy for me to be healthy for lunch during the week as I can just rustle something up in seconds. I love to make fresh green salads with pulses, roast vegetables, avocado, poached eggs, seeds and nuts. I have just come up with a killer sweet corn fritter with crushed avocado, coriander, paprika, turmeric and lime that I have been making for lunch once a week. It’s delicious! I am also always shooting dishes for magazines and my instagram so I often will eat whatever recipe I was shooting after. I would say that I am mostly a vegetarian during the week and then at the weekend I am more relaxed and will have roast chicken, fish or meat. I am a firm believer that a good balance is key to being healthy.

 

Teatime

This is quite an important pause in my day as it means making something yummy and having a quick break from work. I have really begun to love Matcha and I like it in tea with fresh mint leaves or mixed into a cinnamon latte with almond milk. I feel like it’s comforting but also gives you a boost of energy which is better for you than coffee. I do a lot of gluten-free baking so I may be lucky and scramble for some leftovers otherwise I will probably have some fruit and nuts at this point in the day. I work quite late these days so this snack time is essential to keep me going.

 

Dinner

When I am cooking for myself and feeling a little lazy I tend to go for broccoli, green beans, kale with salmon fillet or tofu and a punchy tahini dressing. I live round the corner from Itsu and those takeaway boxes practically jump into my bag for my midweek dinner on my way home. I host quite a few dinner parties at my flat and I have been making my roast squash gnocchi for guests recently which is a nice, easy recipe from my new cookbook NINA Capri. They are light, fluffy and delicate and are made with a little rice flour making them gluten-free. Post dinner I may need a small piece of dark chocolate but only 70% cocoa or over will do otherwise I find it too sweet. All of the chocolate that I use in baking is from Ecuadorian coco beans and is made organically in a small factory in Leicester and the depth in flavour is incredible. I think my cakes sell due to the quality of this amazing chocolate. If you are going to have a treat, then treat yourself to the best!

 

Need to catch up on the rest of Nina Parker’s Guest Edit? Check out her super delicious, dairy free, Berry Frozen Yoghurt and discover how she stays fit and healthy! 

 


Gluten Free Pizza – Nina Parker

PRAIANO PIZZA

While writing my new book Nina Capri, I became so obsessed with how pizza was made that I would quiz pizza chefs in every restaurant I visited. In the small seaside town of Praiano, on the Amalfi coast, I was surprised to come across gluten-free pizza at the renowned pizzeria La Brace, where the chefs were kind enough to teach me a few tips. I will never forget speaking in French to the waiter who would translate my questions into Italian for the chef Claudio.

Here, I have included two gluten free pizza bases. For version one, I created a wheat flour substitute that helps to make a good ‘pretend’ wheat-tasting base. The second is a very quick option using chickpea flour. Psyllium husks can be found at health food shops. Both can be served with the toppings of your choice.

 

Gluten-free pizza base one

2 1/2 tsp fresh yeast

1 tbsp tepid water

35g ground almonds

1 level tbsp psyllium husks

1 tsp gluten-free baking powder,

heaped

1 tsp sea salt

295ml tepid water

1 tsp honey

1 tbsp plus 2 tsp extra

virgin olive oil

for the flour blend

220g rice flour, plus extra

for dusting

50g potato starch

20g tapioca flour

15g chickpea flour

 

 

Gluten-free pizza base two

Makes 2 pizza bases

90g chickpea flour

1/2 tsp turmeric

1/4 tsp paprika

120ml water

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

 

Base one method

In a small bowl, add the yeast and 1 tablespoon of tepid water and leave for 5 minutes.

Combine the ingredients for the flour blend in a bowl and measure out 225g. Place the measured amount into a large bowl with the ground almonds, psyllium husks, baking powder and sea salt. Use a spatula to stir in the yeast mix, then gradually incorporate 295ml of tepid water, followed by the honey and olive oil. Beat well for about 5 minutes to form a wet dough. Transfer the dough to a clean bowl, cover with cling film and leave to rise for about 1.5 hours, by which point the dough will have formed bubbles.

Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas mark 4, and line 2 baking trays with baking parchment. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into 2 large even pizza circles, about 1cm thick. Divide between the 2 prepared trays and bake for about 20–25 minutes. Remove and increase the heat on the oven to its highest setting. Scatter the pizza bases generously with your chosen toppings and bake for another 10–12 minutes, until cooked. Serve immediately.

 

Base 2 method

In a bowl, combine the flour and spices. Slowly stir in 120ml of water and season with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over a medium–high heat, spoon about half the batter into the pan to give you a base that is 1cm thick, then spread the batter out evenly. Cook for 1 minute until golden, then turn over and cook the other side for another minute. Repeat with the remaining batter to make 2 bases.

Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas mark 6, and line 2 baking trays with baking parchment. Transfer the pizza bases to the prepared trays and scatter generously with your chosen toppings. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until cooked. Serve immediately.

This recipe is taken from Nina’s new, Capri-inspired cook book, Nina Capri which you can buy here!

52736_ORIO_NCA_CVJKT_39.pdf


Hip & Healthy Guide To Capri – Nina Parker

La Dolce Vita travelled down from Rome to experience the stunning coastline, pebbled beaches, perfect weather, clear blue waters and delicious food. All of this still exists but aside from the dessert rooms and gelaterias there is a more healthy and lighter side to Capri that you might not know about! It’s time to put on your walking shoes!

 

Where to stay

Doctor’s famous villa in Anacapri
This house is where my family and I stayed while shooting my book. You will notice the stunning kitchen, which appears on my front and back cover. We fell in love with this villa, which sleeps up to 12 people and has a pool, lovely garden, pizza oven and gorgeous views of the sea. I think this would be the perfect spot to host a retreat, the rooms are pretty and you could definitely teach some memorable yoga classes on the terrace by the pool. I want to go back just thinking about it.

Capri Palace, Anacapri

This is a more high-end option to stay in but it offers some amazing spa treatments including one quite unique treatment called La Scuola de la Gambe. This focuses on improving blood circulation, lymphatic flow in the legs, helps boost metabolism and prevent the formation of cellulite. What’s more, the hotel is flooded with lovely artwork featuring Miro, Kandinsky and some dramatic bronze sculptures. Like many places on the island it boasts camera-worthy views at every angle especially one by the pool where you can see the neighboring island of Ischia.

Villa La Lamparella is a set of two gorgeous holiday apartments located in the centre of Capri. They have lovely interiors and have that special Caprese feel with self-catering kitchens and cute terraces. They have a stunning instagram account to get a proper feel of the flats and views!

There are so many B&B’s on the island and I have two here which are both extremely sweet and very close to the main square.

Quattro Stagioni

Reginella

 

Where to eat and drink

Da Gelsomina
When you book the restaurant for lunch or dinner you need to ask for the shuttle service to pick you up from square in Anacapri as the walk up is a very steep hill. On arrival you are greeted with another breathtaking view by a swimming pool, which is wonderful for cooling off on a hot day. I particularly love this place for its antipasti of mixed vegetables but mostly because it offers the most incredible gluten-free ravioli with the classic and regional caciotta cheese with fresh tomato sauce. Delicious and unforgettable!

Il Riccio
This is owned by Capri Palace and is one of the most incredible looking restaurants. Everything is covered in blue ceramic tiles, with sails draped over the terrace and red coral and shells hanging everywhere. It is not that old a restaurant, however, it has made a name for itself and holds a well-deserved Michelin star. The food is served on Amalfi ceramic plates and offers some of the freshest seafood around. It was also featured in the Capri episode in Steve Coogan’s Trip To Italy! After lunch you can lounge on the sun beds on the nearby terrace.

La Fontelina
This is a stunning beach restaurant serving up delicious traditional Italian food in an amazing setting. We used this rocky beach to shoot many of the photos for the book, the blue and white deckchairs and gorgeous rocky alcoves, truly capturing the essence of Capri. It is worth booking a sun lounger for pre and post lunch as the swimming is wonderful. It is no wonder that Dolce and Gabbana hosted their couture show at the restaurant and love shooting their campaigns on the island. I personally prefer this place for lunch but it is also dreamy for a romantic dinner, offering mixed seafood and vegetable dishes. You can either access the restaurant by getting the boat from the Marina Piccola or take the long walk down the Pizzolungo.

Buonocore Gelateria
This place is quite legendary and it always has a queue going round the corner of eager ice cream goers, patiently waiting for their treat. They offer a lovely selection of fruit sorbets, which are worth trying and you can eat it out of one of their homemade waffle cones. Many of the cones are still a little warm after just being made and you can smell the sweet warm aroma of vanilla extract wafting down the street!

Farmacia Internazionale
If you are looking for a good health food store to stock up on gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan snacks, then this is quite a good pharmacy on Via Roma. They offer tofu, different non-dairy milks, chips, crackers and even vegan croissants!

Via Roma, 24, Capri NA, Italy

Merendero
Merendero, is located on one of my favourite beaches on the island of Capri, La Marina Piccola. The beach is rustic and pebbled with a beautiful arched rock in front of the snack bar. Here you can buy lots of freshly cut fruit including some delicious watermelon, they also do some great smoothies.

 

Where to work out

Run
I am a keen runner and Capri is amazing for this as you can do lots of up and down hills. I particularly love the route down from the top of the hill near the centre of Capri, all the way down to the Marina Piccola. You can also do a route from Anacapri piazza down towards the lighthouse, which is on the far side of the island. The challenging routes are all filled with sunshine and stunning scenery.

Walk
Capri is full of wonderful walks and you don’t need to rent a car so it is worth putting on your trainers and making the most of the hikes. There are two walks, which are particular favourites of mine; one of the Pizzolungo, which is the walk from the main Capri piazza down towards the iconic Faraglioni rocks. This is absolutely stunning and could not be more romantic. There are two routes to take and the other route involves starting near the restaurant le Grottelle where you can also catch a glimpse of the famous Arco Naturale. On both walks you will see the views that have made this island famous, pretty villas that you might recognise from either James Bond or Brigitte Bardot films and you will get a great work out too!

Swimming
As I have mentioned, the beach at La Fontelina is great and the swimming is very relaxing. There is a beach in the Marina Piccola where you have to pay for a sun longer, however, it offers some beautiful swimming. Alternatively, there is a public beach on the other side of island near the Marina Grande.

Boats
Renting a boat for a day is almost essential and if the weather is clear you can explore round the island and see the talked about grottos. Hiring a boat is completely worth it, even if only to drive through the famous Faraglioni rocks. It is truly an unforgettable and dramatic experience! There is a lovely lady called Julia Braun who arrived on the island one summer and fell in love and has never left. She is the person to go to and who took us out on one of her boats during the shoot. She offers a great selection of different options for renting.

Email her for details: [email protected]

Yoga
An inspiring lady called Camela runs retreats in Capri and Bali, with a few coming up this summer. It sounds incredibly dreamy and the locations are without a doubt some of the most relaxing spots to practice. Her retreat includes a spa treatment, hikes, lunches, dinners, private boat trips to the blue grotto among other activities.

 

Transport

Flights
London to Naples.

Ferry
You need to get either the bus from outside the airport to Naples port or get a taxi which will cost you about 15-20 euros. Boats to Capri go every 20-30minutes and maybe even more during the busy summer months. The boat takes about an hour.

Taxis
Capri has taxis on the island but they are quite expensive and I would recommend only getting one when you arrive and leave your hotel.

Bus
The buses are the best way to get around as they are cheap and run regularly all over the island. They are also quite a fun mode of transport as they are not your average bus. You will know what I mean once you have a ride!

 

Feeling inspired? Get your self a copy of Nina’s amazing, new, Capri-inspired book, Nina Capri here!


Wild Berries Frozen Yoghurt – Nina Capri

Whether you’re looking to jazz up your summer evening dinner parties (with minimal effort) or you’re just wanting to discover a new, healthy dessert recipe, this Wild Berries Frozen Yoghurt recipe from Nina Parker’s new book, Nina Capri, will tick all your boxes as well as being perfect for batch-making!

Ingredients 

400g coconut yoghurt

500g mixed frozen berries

2 tsp vanilla extract

100g honey

few drops of lemon juice

 

Method

Gelato and sorbet are probably the favourite desserts here in the bay of Naples, but frozen yoghurt has become quite popular too! This is a wonderful refreshing sugar-free dessert and is very easy to make. It’s a particular favourite with my nephew Phoenix.

Use a stand mixer to blend all the ingredients until combined. Churn in an ice-cream machine. Once churned, scoop out into a plastic container and freeze for at least 1 hour. Alternatively, if you don’t have an ice-cream machine, freeze the mixture for 20 minutes. Mix with a fork and return to the freezer for 15 minutes. Continue doing this at 15–20 minute intervals until it firms up, then remove from the freezer about 15 minutes before you are ready to serve. It keeps in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Recipe from Nina’s new book, Nina Capri – Order here!


Guest Editor – Nina Parker

We’ve got an exciting new Guest Editor for you this week! We sat down with culinary writer and author of Nina St Tropez (a deliciously wholesome cook book inspired by the culinary delights of St Tropez) and discussed her latest book, Nina Capri, and how she likes to stay fit and healthy!

What inspired you to choose Capri to focus your new book on?

My first book was all about St Tropez and trying to show the more laid-back side of the town, the more classic rustic aspects along with lots of the local’s hangouts. I have trained in Italian kitchens and so Italian food seemed the obvious choice for me to explore next. I wanted to create something similar with the Capri book like I did for the St Tropez. I feel that Capri has many similarities to St Tropez. It has that same glamour, intrigue and beauty and so I felt there was no other contender for an Italian location. It definitely has its own special feel and atmosphere and I think this is down to the dramatic rocky coastline.

 

In your opinion, what is the single, most important element of a healthy lifestyle?

One of the most important things is definitely diet. I think there are so many health fads flying around and really to eat clean is to buy fresh fruit, vegetables and fish and to home cook. Simple is always best and to use good quality ingredients. This way you have the taste, you gain all the health benefits from the food and my personal favourite, you enjoy it. Food needs to be delicious, life is too short!

 

Where did you find your love for cooking?

I have always been interested since I was little but it is something that I truly became obsessed with once I left university and started working in Italian restaurant, L’Anima. With cooking, I love the way I am continually learning new techniques and cuisines. Nothing makes me happier than discovering a new amazing place to eat!

 

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Ignore anyone who tells you no. You need to hundreds of no’s before you get a yes!

 

Do you have any plans for a future book, and if so, have you chosen a particular region?

I would love to do a California book. Maybe in the pipeline… fingers crossed! There are so many incredible foods to cover over there and of course you would find some stunning location photography.

 

To compliment your delicious and healthy food, what type of exercise to you like to do?

I am seriously into running as I used to do long distance at school but most of all I love tennis.

 

Do you ever struggle to balance your work life with your personal life? 

Not usually but with the book coming out it has been quite difficult with lots of events. I’m hoping for a more quite time nearer August to relax a bit.

 

How do you unwind in the evening?

At the moment I am so exhausted that only Peaky Blinders or Game of Thrones will do!

 

Whats your morning routine? 

I wake up and have a large glass of water to refresh. Novak Djokovic recommends this in his book so I do whatever he says! Then I shower, brush teeth, go to my sister’s where I do all my cooking as my kitchen is pea-size and make a smoothie in her Vita Mix. They are the smoothie household and they are pretty pro. Frozen fruit, almond milk, bananas, cashews, avocados and oats. Delicious start!

Get yourself a copy of Nina Capri here!