When the calendar flips to May, everything starts to feel lighter—the air, our mood, and yes, even the food we crave. This grilled lemon-herb chicken is the kind of dish that feels like sunshine on a plate. It’s simple, fresh, and ideal for those warmer evenings when you want dinner to be delicious but not heavy.

Pair it with quick-cooking couscous and a creamy cucumber yogurt sauce, and you’ve got a meal that’s healthy, satisfying, and full of Mediterranean flavor. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting friends, this one’s a crowd-pleaser.

What You’ll Need

For the chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Juice and zest of 1 lemon

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the couscous:

• 1 cup couscous

• 1 cup boiling water or chicken broth

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

• Juice of 1/2 lemon

• Pinch of salt

For the cucumber yogurt sauce:

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove water

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It

Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl or zip-top bag, mix the olive oil, lemon juice and zest, garlic, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and coat it well. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—or even better, a few hours if you’ve got time.

While that’s soaking up flavor, make the cucumber yogurt sauce. Just stir the grated cucumber into the Greek yogurt, add dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, and mix. Pop it in the fridge to chill while everything else comes together.

Next up: couscous. Place it in a bowl with the olive oil and a pinch of salt. Pour over boiling water or broth, cover the bowl, and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff it with a fork, then stir in lemon juice and parsley. Done.

When you’re ready, heat up a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side, until it’s cooked through and has nice grill marks. Let it rest a few minutes before slicing.

Serve the sliced chicken over the couscous and add a generous spoonful of the cucumber yogurt sauce on the side—or drizzle it right on top.

Extra Tips

Want to make it a lemon herb grilled chicken bowl? Layer the couscous, chicken, sauce, and a handful of fresh greens like arugula or spinach. It makes a perfect lunch and keeps well for leftovers. This is one of those dishes that looks impressive but is secretly super easy. And it’s versatile—you can swap couscous for quinoa or serve it over a salad if that’s more your vibe.

Ready to bring fresh, feel-good flavors to your kitchen this May? This is a great place to start.

When it comes to beauty, what you put on your skin matters—but what you put in your body may matter even more. True radiance starts from within, and your daily nutrition plays a powerful role in how your skin glows, your hair shines, and your nails stay strong. Here’s how to support your natural beauty from the inside out with key nutrients that nourish every cell.

Why Inner Health Reflects Outer Beauty

Your skin, hair, and nails often show the first signs of internal imbalance. Inflammation, dehydration, gut issues, and nutrient deficiencies can lead to dull complexions, breakage, and hair thinning.

By prioritizing vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats in your diet, you’re helping your body build stronger, more resilient tissues—naturally and effectively.

Top Nutrients That Support Skin, Hair & Nail Health

1. Collagen

Collagen is the structural protein that keeps skin firm and elastic. Natural production slows with age, but supplementing with hydrolyzed collagen peptides may improve hydration, reduce wrinkles, and enhance skin texture.

Recommended options:

• Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides

• Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein

2. Vitamin C

This antioxidant powerhouse helps protect skin from free radicals and also boosts collagen production. It contributes to a more even skin tone and supports immune function.

Best food sources: Citrus fruits, bell peppers, strawberries, broccoli
Supplement to consider: LivOn Labs Lypo-Spheric Vitamin C

3. Biotin (Vitamin B7)

Biotin is essential for producing keratin, the protein that makes up your hair and nails. It can help reduce brittleness and encourage growth—especially when your levels are low.

Top choices:

• Sports Research Biotin with Coconut Oil

• MegaFood Skin, Nails & Hair 2

4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

These healthy fats keep skin hydrated, reduce inflammation, and may help soothe conditions like acne or dryness.

Food sources: Salmon, walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds
Supplement option: Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega

5. Zinc

Zinc supports cell repair, helps regulate oil production, and plays a key role in managing acne. It also supports the immune system and wound healing.

Consider trying:

• Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Zinc

• Thorne Zinc Picolinate

6. Hyaluronic Acid

Known for its ability to retain moisture, hyaluronic acid works from the inside to keep skin supple and hydrated. Oral supplements may help improve elasticity and reduce dryness.

Supplement to try: Hum Nutrition Glow Sweet Glow Gummies

Beauty-Boosting Foods to Include in Your Diet

• Avocados: Rich in vitamin E and healthy fats

• Sweet potatoes: High in beta-carotene for skin protection

• Berries: Loaded with antioxidants and vitamin C

• Leafy greens (like spinach and kale): Provide vitamins A, C, and K

• Bone broth: A natural collagen source

Don’t Forget Hydration

Drinking plenty of water is one of the simplest ways to support healthy, glowing skin. Staying hydrated helps flush out toxins and maintain skin elasticity. Try adding lemon, cucumber, or herbs for a refreshing twist.

By nourishing your body with the right nutrients, you’re building beauty from the inside—supporting long-term skin, hair, and nail health in a way that goes deeper than surface-level treatments.

Protein is essential for strong muscles, balanced hormones, and lasting energy—but getting enough of it can feel like a challenge on a fully plant-based diet. The good news? You don’t need meat, dairy, or eggs to hit your protein goals. With the right choices, you can thrive as a vegan and stay fueled, fit, and full.

Here’s how to increase your protein intake the healthy way—100% vegan approved.

1. Prioritize Protein-Rich Plant Foods

Some plants are surprisingly rich in protein. Add these staples to your grocery list:

• Legumes: lentils, chickpeas, black beans, edamame

• Whole grains: quinoa, farro, bulgur, oats, brown rice

• Soy products: tofu, tempeh, soy milk

• Seitan: a wheat-based meat alternative with about 20g protein per serving

• Nuts & seeds: almonds, hemp seeds, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds

• Nutritional yeast: 8–10g protein per 2 tablespoons plus a cheesy flavor kick

These foods form the foundation of a high-protein vegan diet—no powders required (but we’ll get to that too!).

2. Combine Foods for Complete Protein

Some plant proteins are low in certain amino acids. While it’s not necessary to combine them all in a single meal, eating a variety throughout the day ensures your body gets everything it needs.

Smart pairings include:

• Rice and beans

• Hummus and whole grain pita

• Tofu, broccoli, and brown rice

• Oatmeal with nut butter and chia seeds

Over time, these combinations add up to complete protein coverage.

3. Use Vegan Protein Powders (Smartly)

Protein powders can be a helpful addition—especially for active lifestyles or when time is tight. Look for clean, plant-based blends made from:

• Pea protein

• Brown rice protein

• Hemp protein

• Pumpkin seed protein

• Soy protein isolate

Recommended brands:

• Ritual Essential Protein (Daily Shake 18+)

• Nuzest Clean Lean Protein

• Orgain Organic Protein

Mix into smoothies, oatmeal, or energy bites for a convenient protein boost.

4. Build High-Protein Meals (Not Just Snacks)

Start each meal with protein in mind rather than playing catch-up with snacks later. Here are a few examples:

• Breakfast: Tofu scramble with veggies and avocado toast

• Lunch: Quinoa salad with chickpeas, edamame, and tahini dressing

• Dinner: Stir-fried tempeh with soba noodles and bok choy

• Snack: Chia pudding with almond butter and hemp seeds

Aim for 15–25 grams of protein per meal to stay energized and support muscle health.

5. Snack Smarter

Keep protein-rich snacks handy so you’re not stuck reaching for empty carbs.

Some great options:

• Roasted chickpeas

• Nut butter with fruit

• Trail mix with almonds and pumpkin seeds

• Vegan jerky (made from mushrooms, soy, or seitan)

• Edamame

• Plant-based protein bars

6. Track (Temporarily) If Needed

If you’re not sure you’re hitting your goals, try tracking your meals for a few days using an app like Cronometer or MyFitnessPal. It can help you make small adjustments—and show you where you’re already doing great.

Protein Is Possible on Plants

A vegan diet can absolutely provide all the protein your body needs—without sacrificing your values or nutrition. With a bit of planning, variety, and creativity, you’ll meet your protein needs and feel great doing it.

Because plant power isn’t just possible—it’s delicious.