Make-Ahead Recipes
30-Minute Minestrone
An abundance of colorful veggies is the basis for this classic, comforting soup, which cooks in one pot for a go-to meal on a busy night. The flexible recipe is protein-rich and plant-based, but a variety of meats may be added for those who enjoy. Soups provide a stellar way to increase our of…
Elderberry Syrup
Elderberry syrup has become my go-to remedy for fighting colds and flu and is very easy to make. For best relief, take it at first sign of a virus. A spoonful a day also works well as a preventative measure. (As a bonus, this all-natural remedy tastes far better than conventional, store-bought syrups－and is less…
Sesame Soy Meatballs
These party-perfect meatballs are saucy, tender and bursting with irresistible Asian flavor. The bite-size option is ideal as an appetizer while the standard-size can be served over rice for a crowd-pleasing entree. Prep-ahead tips offer built-in convenience. Reviewing a cookbook is a task I always enjoy. As I scan the pages, I can often sense…
Homemade Bailey’s Irish Cream
Quick and easy to make at home and every bit as delicious as the store-bought bottle－less expensive, too. Irish cream is delightful in coffee, on the rocks, or in a variety of baked goods. It’s a novel treat for holiday and hostess gifts and perfect for St. Patrick’s Day! A reader from France kindly…
Stuffing Waffles
Stuffing waffles are a quick way to make a fun meal out of leftover stuffing. Top with leftover turkey and gravy, a fried egg, cranberry sauce or whatever sounds good to you! Sometimes I’m not sure which I enjoy more－the big turkey dinner or the leftovers that follow! Realistically, if you’ve been working hard…
Easy Make-Ahead Gravy Base or Quick Gravy
A quick and easy base to which pan drippings are added for a deliciously stress-free (and lump-free!) gravy. May be prepared up to 4 days in advance. Do you fret over making the gravy? It’s the last-minute job that must be done as you’re trying to complete a myriad of other tasks and get everything to…
Cranberry Apple Crisp
A delightful balance of sweet and tart adds something special to this easy crisp, which can be made dairy- and gluten-free if needed. While I will always have a fond place in my heart for my grandmother’s black raspberry and apple pies, with their flaky, buttery crusts and sweet-tart fillings, I’ve broken with holiday tradition…
Holiday Sangria
Infused with cranberry, orange, and apple, this make-ahead cocktail is a festive crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving and all of your holiday celebrations. Looking for a signature drink to complement a festive menu or take to a holiday gathering? Enter the following sangria. This jewel-hued beverage will serve you well from Halloween through New…
Pumpkin and Black Bean Soup
This super-healthy, stick-to-your-ribs, vegan soup is easy to customize and makes a big batch － perfect for easy dinners and packable lunches all week long. Freezes well, too! First, I must tell you that my husband does not care for pumpkin in savory recipes like sauces or soups — but he adores this…
Roasted Pumpkin Butter
Naturally sweetened and perfectly spiced, this foolproof, no-scorch recipe adds something special to toast, oatmeal, yogurt, baked goods and more. Plus it freezes well and makes a lovely gift. If you’ve never made pumpkin butter before, this foolproof recipe is reason to start! The flavor of homemade pumpkin butter is truly in a…
3-Ingredient Teriyaki Brussels Sprouts & Lentil Stir Fry
Inspired by a Trader Joe’s shortcut recipe but using ingredients anyone can find, this protein-rich, plant-based meal is a dream on a busy night. Enjoy it as is or use the recipe as a framework and customize to taste. You may have read one of my recent mentions about my older son. He’s…
Waldorf Chicken Salad
Loaded with lean protein and fresh produce, this hearty salad perfectly balances savory and sweet ingredients while hitting all the right texture notes. Enjoy as a packable lunch or easy dinner! Waldorf salad always reminds me of my grandmother. It was the first non-baked good she taught me how to make－I was probably…
