Make-Ahead Recipes

Paleo Granola

My favorite grain-free granola is lightly spiced and naturallyย sweetย without being sticky like many Paleo granolas. The recipe also offersย savings over expensive store-bought alternatives andย convenient choices based on what you may have on hand.ย          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 Syrupย 

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๏ผ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 Baileyโ€™s Irish Cream

Quick and easy to make at home and every bit as delicious as the store-bought bottle๏ผless expensive, too. Irish cream is delightful in coffee, on the rocks, or in a variety of baked goods. Itโ€™s a novel treat for holiday and hostess gifts and perfect for St. Patrickโ€™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๏ผ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 Crispย 

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 ๏ผ 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 โ€” 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 youโ€™ve never made pumpkin butter before, this foolproof recipe is reason to start! The flavor of homemade pumpkin butter is truly in a…

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