Make-Ahead Recipes
Everything Bagel Seasoning
Add delicious crunch, flavor and health appeal to a long list of everyday foods with a quick sprinkle of this toasty, seedy, easy-to-make mix. I’m a big believer in little things. The little things in life can truly make a big difference in the coarse of a day, whether it’s getting an extra half…
Split Pea Soup with Ham
Wholesome, economical pantry ingredients combine with refrigerator staples in this hearty, comforting, slow cooked soup. Makes a big batch and freezes well too. It’s funny how tastes change. When I was little, the color and name alone were unappealing. Now, I consider split pea soup to be a soul-warming comfort food and one of…
Homemade Parmesan Croutons
A simple mix of herbs, spices, olive oil and Parmesan makes snack-worthy croutons that add crisp crunch to soups, salads, casseroles and more. The flavor-packed bites offer a practical way to make use of leftover bread, from baguettes to sturdy sandwich bread, with an excellent gluten-free option. I’m usually one to skip the croutons.…
Paleo Granola
My favorite grain-free granola is lightly spiced and naturally sweet without being sticky like many Paleo granolas. The recipe also offers savings over expensive store-bought alternatives and convenient choices based on what you may have on hand. This recipe was inspired by my Aunt Peggy, who first brought me a jar of her favorite Paleo…
Roasted Curried Cauliflower
Simply roasted cauliflower is nutty and delicious as is, but this nutritious, cruciferous vegetable soars to new heights when tossed in this flavor-packed spice mixture. Loaded with warm, bright flavor, it takes mere minutes to prepare and can be transformed into a filling meatless meal with a few easy additions. The only thing better…
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…
