Make-Ahead Recipes

Roasted Feta with Honey

A dear friend called this delicious appetizer easy but “showy,” and it’s a perfect description!      As the New Year approaches, it’s natural to ponder our hopes and dreams and to consider the multitude of resolutions we could make (and possibly break) in the months ahead. It’s also a good time to look back…

Overnight French Toast Casserole

Lightly sweet and tender with delightfully crispy edges, this mouthwatering baked French toast can be prepared in advance with basic ingredients. It’s special enough for holiday breakfasts and brunches but easy enough for any given Saturday or Sunday.   Warm fires, sweet cookies, festive packages, and lots of holiday cheer with family and friends—this is…

Spinach & Artichoke Egg Casserole

In the last week alone, I’ve received quite a few reader requests for more low-carb, protein-rich meals.  It seems we’re all in the same boat–and that boat has an endless supply of sugary cookies, creamy dips, and salty snack mixes.  Tis the season! So I decided to take inspiration from a party staple–cheesy, gooey, baked…

Easy Hand & Body Sugar Scrub

This customizable, boutique-worthy scrub is effective, economical, and smells good enough to eat. It also makes a thoughtful gift that can be made in minutes!   Dry, cracked, or otherwise flaky skin isn’t the most exciting topic of conversation, although I’m pretty sure I’m not the only one who deals with it.  But guess what?…

Shortcut Beef Vegetable Soup

Everything for this hearty soup can be kept in your pantry or freezer for a speedy, well-rounded meal whenever needed.   Over the past few weeks, I’ve spent hours rolling dough for homemade dog biscuits, decorating gingerbread houses, and figuring out how to make homemade lotion. These activities are all lots of fun, but none will…

Leftover Mashed Potato Bake

Leftover mashed potatoes can be given new life with a few basic ingredients. You can even top them like a stuffed potato if you like. Whether you’re baking pies and stuffing the turkey right now or hitting the highway en route to family and friends, chances are you’re rather busy and not thinking of adding…

Homemade Cold Remedy

The holidays are full of family, friends, and good cheer. All the fun and festivities, however, seem to go hand-in-hand with a present none of us want—the common cold. There’s no joy to be found in the common cold, and I’ve long been intrigued by any home remedy that claims to alleviate its symptoms. Several…

Sparkling Cranberries

Two ingredients come together with ease for a stunning holiday dessert decoration or cheese plate garnish. The leftover syrup is delicious in cocktails, mocktails, and lemonade!   What holiday spread wouldn’t be perked up by something colorful and sparkly? These sweet-tart jewels are simple to make and can be used to decorate cakes and pies,…

Roasted Veggie & Wild Rice Salad

Roasted vegetables, wild rice, and hearty greens form the base of this colorful salad that comes to life with a flavor-packed vinaigrette. Healthy, filling, and great for meal prep!   Entertaining family and friends is supposed to be fun, but it can also be somewhat stressful. Planning, shopping for, and preparing a big meal can…

Healthy Pumpkin Snack Cake (Gluten- & Grain-Free)

Decadent enough for dessert yet healthy enough for breakfast, this easy-to-make treat is sure to become a family favorite.   The natural sweetness and tender crumb of this quick-prep treat make it a true family favorite around here.  Though I originally created it as a healthy snack or dessert option, its wholesome qualities soon made…

Stretch-a-Can-of-Tuna Salad

Loaded with filling protein and fiber-rich veggies, this remake on the classic recipe is economical, nutritious, and completely delicious! Cabbage and tuna may not seem like kindred spirits, but when mixed together in a simple salad, the results are decidedly delicious.  What’s more, every crisp forkful delivers filling protein, nutrient-rich veggies, and satisfying flavor.  What’s…

Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal

The warm, spiced flavors of the classic muffin find their way into a satisfying baked oatmeal for a nourishing, make-ahead way to start your day!   In October of 2015, Kim asked via email if I happened to have a recipe for morning glory baked oatmeal. Kim mentioned that her brother had purchased something similar…

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