Make-Ahead Recipes

Roasted Veggie Pesto Pasta

Quite possibly my favorite pasta, which I make on repeat, this satisfying meal is nourishing comfort food at its best. It delivers a hearty dose of vegetables, allows for endless customization, and leftovers are a treat. When it comes to comforting meals that the whole family enjoys, this pasta recipe ranks high.  It’s entirely different…

Roasted Wild Mushrooms

The simplest of ingredients and a straightforward technique transform earthy mushrooms into a meaty, savory, satisfying dish that can be enjoyed in so many ways. And though wild mushrooms are widely available and contribute interest and textural variety, this hands-off technique will make the most of basic button mushrooms.         When I…

Spinach Pesto

Easy, accessible, and endlessly versatile, this flavorful pesto is especially ideal when fresh herbs aren’t available. Perfect for adding flavor to pasta, pizza and flatbread, sauces, sandwiches, and so much more, the simple recipe can be customized with a variety of nuts, seeds, and cheeses. Plus it maintains its vibrant green color and freezes well!  …

Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole

A modern remake of my mom’s classic casserole, this rendition of a childhood favorite is lighter but still delivers the memorable flavor. There’s even a crunchy topping, an option for extra veggies, and excellent alternatives for some dietary restrictions. (And Mom approves!)       Who doesnโ€™t love a comforting chicken and rice casserole? If…

Southern (with a Twist) Cornbreadโ€ฆ naturally gluten-free with a dairy-free option

The magic begins when you pour the simple batter into a hot skillet. This unique recipe is naturally gluten-free with a dairy-free option and has been a hit with readers (and my family) for years. And have you noticed how leftover cornbread always seems dry? There’s a great tip for “refreshingโ€ it, and I also mention how I…

Salt-Free Smoked Paprika Chicken with Lime

Watching your sodium intake can be challenging, but this recipe proves that you can skip the salt without losing the flavor. Plus, it’s easy to make and the leftovers can be transformed into a brand new meal! (For those who may be interested, there is a link to a video above the recipe card.)  …

Vegan Chili (that meat-eaters enjoy too!)

With its flavor-packed, quick-cooking, crowd-pleasing appeal, this meatless recipe defies traditional chili logic and is 100% worthy of the weekly dinner rotation. Good enough for game day too!    When we think of chili, we typically think of a meaty, long-simmered stew that requires a lengthy list of ingredients and a good bit of chopping.…

Perfect Skillet Chicken

Does achieving a flavorful, golden brown crust on a boneless, skinless chicken breast seem impossible, especially when cooked over medium-low heat with the simplest of ingredients? This fool-proof technique is a keeper and will make a meal out simply roasted vegetables and virtually any salad โ€“ even a salad kit from the grocery store. Chicken.…

Chia Pudding Breakfast Bowls

This nutrient-dense alternative to the popular acai bowl takes just a few minutes to prepare and offers a deliciously filling, no-cook start to the day. The concept is similar to overnight oats, as you can top and customize to taste.ย  Chia seeds. They have a reputation for being a superfood, which is all well and…

Baked Almond Cake Donuts or Muffins (grain-free)

No messy frying step needed for deliciously satisfying, grain-free donuts. No donut pan? No problem. The recipe can be made as muffins instead!    I have a clear vision of the best donut I ever ate. It was from a cafe called Philz during a visit to Los Angeles several years ago. My family and…

Frisco’s Peruvian Green Sauce

Looking for a condiment that complements and elevates seemingly everything? This flavor-packed sauce is easy to make๏ผand makes enough to share. We almost always have a jar in the refrigerator, and whenever I whip up a fresh batch, I give a jar away.         How many times have you enjoyed a restaurant…

Christmas Potpourri

The aroma of warm spices and fresh citrus join festive cranberries in this colorful, easy-to-make mix that is perfect for gift giving. Printable gift tags included above recipe card.   My very thoughtful friend, Anne Besterman, is to thank for this festive recipe, which although made of edible ingredients, is not intended for consumption. Christmas…

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