Monday, September 30, 2024

Simple Squash Soup



A velvety, comforting soup made with butternut squash that is great for cold days.

Ingredients:

  • 1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: roasted pumpkin seeds, drizzle of coconut cream

Instructions:

Put olive oil in a big pot and heat it over medium-low heat

Put in the garlic and onion, and cook for about 5 minutes, until the onions are soft

Put in the vegetable broth and cubed squash

Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and let it cook for 20 to 25 minutes, until the squash is soft

Blend until smooth, either with an immersion blender or by adding small amounts at a time to a regular blender

Add pepper and salt to taste

Serve hot with extras if you want


Friday, September 27, 2024

Gluten-Free Carrot Cake



This gluten-free carrot cake is a delightful twist on the classic recipe, perfect for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking for a healthier alternative. It's moist, flavorful, and loaded with wholesome ingredients like almond flour, coconut, and maple syrup.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups grated carrots
  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 1/2 cup coconut flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
  • 3/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Instructions:

Set the oven to 350F 175C and heat it up

Clean and grease a 9-inch cake pan

Place parchment paper inside the pan

Grate the carrots, add the almond flour, coconut flour, shredded coconut, and chopped walnuts to a large bowl

Beat the eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt together in a different bowl

Add the melted coconut oil and mix them in

Mix the dry ingredients with the wet ones until everything is well mixed

Add the baking soda and powder and mix them in until they are evenly spread out

When the cake pan is ready, pour the batter into it and spread it out evenly

After the oven is hot, bake it for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick stuck in the middle comes out clean

The cake should cool in the pan for 10 minutes before being moved to a wire rack to cool all the way down

After the cake has cooled, you can frost it with cream cheese frosting if you want to, or you can serve it plain

Have fun!


Wednesday, September 25, 2024

Freezer-Friendly Ham and Cheese Muffins



These Freezer-Friendly Ham and Cheese Muffins are a delicious and convenient breakfast option. They are packed with savory ham, cheddar cheese, and green onions, making them perfect for a quick and satisfying meal on the go. Plus, you can make a batch, freeze them, and enjoy them whenever you like!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup diced ham
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Instructions:

Warm your oven up to 375F 190C, and you can either grease or line a muffin tin with muffin liners

Mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl with a whisk

First, beat the eggs in a different bowl

Then, add the milk and broken up butter

Combine well

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ones and mix them together just until they are mixed

Be careful not to mix the batter too much; it should still have some lumps in it

Cut up the green onions, ham, and cheddar cheese and mix them in

Fill up each muffin tin cup about two-thirds of the way to the top with muffin batter

The muffins should be baked in a hot oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick stuck in the middle comes out clean

First, let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes

Then, move them to a wire rack to cool completely

When the muffins are completely cool, you can wrap each one in plastic wrap and put them in a container or freezer bag that won't let air in

Write the date and name on the jar

For 30 to 40 seconds, or until hot all the way through, heat up a frozen muffin in the microwave

Have fun!


Monday, September 23, 2024

Kim's Tiramisu Cupcakes



Indulge in the rich and delightful flavors of Tiramisu with a twist! Kim's Tiramisu Cupcakes are a perfect blend of coffee, cocoa, and mascarpone cheese, all packed into a convenient cupcake form. These moist and flavorful treats are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
  • 1/4 cup Kahla or coffee liqueur
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder
  • 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp instant espresso powder
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Cocoa powder for dusting
  • Chocolate shavings for garnish

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350F 175C and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt

Set aside

In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition

Stir in the vanilla extract

Gradually add the dry ingredients and the milk, alternating between them, starting and ending with the dry ingredients

Mix until just combined

In a small bowl, combine the brewed espresso and Kahla

In a separate bowl, sift the cocoa powder

Divide the cupcake batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin

Add 1 tsp of the espresso-Kahla mixture to each cupcake and swirl it with a toothpick to incorporate the flavors

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean

Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely

In the meantime, prepare the tiramisu frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and instant espresso powder until smooth and creamy

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form

Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the tiramisu frosting on top of each cupcake

Dust the cupcakes with cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate shavings

Chill the cupcakes in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld

Enjoy your decadent Kim's Tiramisu Cupcakes!


Saturday, September 21, 2024

Chopped Chicken Wild Rice Salad + Balsamic Lemon Cilantro Dressing



The crunchy vegetables, tender chicken, and nutty wild rice in this Chopped Chicken Wild Rice Salad make for a great mix of textures and tastes. The Balsamic Lemon Cilantro Dressing makes the dish taste better by adding a zesty and herbaceous kick. This salad is healthy and filling, and it's great for any event.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked wild rice
  • 2 cups chopped cooked chicken breast
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced any color
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked wild rice and chopped chicken breast

Add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, diced bell pepper, and fresh cilantro to the bowl

Toss all the ingredients together until well combined

In a separate small bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together: - 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar - 2 tablespoons lemon juice - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 clove garlic, minced Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat all the ingredients evenly

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped walnuts over the top of the salad

Season with salt and black pepper to taste

Serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve

Enjoy your Chopped Chicken Wild Rice Salad with Balsamic Lemon Cilantro Dressing!


Friday, September 20, 2024

Lion Latte



Indulge in the rich and creamy Lion Latte, a delightful coffee drink with the sweetness of caramel and a touch of cinnamon. Perfect for coffee lovers!

Ingredients:

  • 1 shot of espresso
  • 8 oz of steamed milk
  • 1/2 oz of caramel syrup
  • Whipped cream
  • Caramel drizzle
  • Ground cinnamon

Instructions:

Brew a shot of espresso

Steam 8 oz of milk until frothy

Add 1/2 oz of caramel syrup to the espresso

Pour the steamed milk over the espresso-caramel mixture

Top with whipped cream

Drizzle caramel sauce over the whipped cream

Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top

Serve and enjoy your Lion Latte!


Wednesday, September 18, 2024

Keto Chocolate Avocado Truffles



These keto chocolate avocado truffles are a creamy and decadent treat that's low in carbs and high in flavor. Avocado adds a rich texture while cocoa powder provides a deep chocolatey taste. They're perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while staying on track with your ketogenic diet.

Ingredients:

  • 2 ripe avocados, mashed
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup powdered erythritol
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts optional, for coating

Instructions:

In a bowl, combine mashed avocados, cocoa powder, erythritol, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth

Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up

Roll the chilled mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter

If desired, roll the truffles in chopped nuts to coat

Place the truffles on a lined baking sheet and refrigerate for another 30 minutes before serving


Thursday, September 12, 2024

Haloumi, Fig, and Pomegranate Salad



The sweet and sour flavors in this Haloumi, Fig, and Pomegranate Salad go so well together. Fresh figs and grilled haloumi cheese go well together, and the pomegranate seeds give it a juicy, tangy twist. This salad is quick to make, colorful, and tastes great. It's topped with a honey balsamic dressing and fresh herbs.

Ingredients:

  • 200g haloumi cheese, sliced
  • 4 fresh figs, quartered
  • 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves

Instructions:

Set a grill pan over medium-high heat to get it hot

Put haloumi slices on the grill and brush them with olive oil

Cook for two to three minutes on each side, or until the grill marks turn golden brown

To make the dressing, mix the honey, salt, pepper, and the rest of the olive oil in a small bowl with a whisk

Mix the mixed greens, grilled haloumi, fresh figs, and pomegranate seeds together in a large salad bowl

Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss it to cover everything

Add the chopped parsley and mint to the salad

Serve right away as a tasty and refreshing salad


Tuesday, September 10, 2024

Paleo Chocolate Avocado Cake



Rich, moist, and luscious, this Paleo chocolate avocado cake is devoid of grains and refined sugars. Honey and coconut flour naturally sweeten the dish, while avocado adds healthy fats and a creamy texture. It's the ideal guilt-free treat for any situation.

Ingredients:

  • 2 ripe avocados, mashed
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/2 cup coconut sugar
  • 1/4 cup raw honey
  • 1/4 cup coconut flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350F 175C

Grease a cake pan with coconut oil and dust with cocoa powder

In a large bowl, mix mashed avocados, eggs, coconut sugar, and honey until well combined

Add coconut flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and vanilla extract

Stir until smooth

Pour batter into the prepared cake pan

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean

Allow the cake to cool before slicing

Enjoy!


Sunday, September 8, 2024

Fall Harvest Chicken



This Fall Harvest Chicken recipe combines the flavors of autumn with tender chicken breasts, sweet apples, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans, all glazed with maple syrup for a delightful seasonal dish.

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 apples, sliced
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup

Instructions:

Warm the oven up to 190C 375F

Salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and olive oil should all be mixed together in a small bowl

Cover chicken breasts with a baking dish and brush them with the olive oil mix

Put pecans, apple slices, and cranberries around the chicken

Spread maple syrup all over the food

Put it in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked

Enjoy while hot!


Friday, September 6, 2024

Perfect Bacon



Learn how to cook bacon in the oven for a mess-free and delicious experience. This method ensures that your bacon turns out crispy and evenly cooked without splattering grease all over your stovetop.

Ingredients:

  • 6 slices of bacon
  • 1 baking sheet
  • Parchment paper

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400F 200C

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier

Lay out the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don't overlap

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness

Keep a close eye on it as cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the bacon and your oven

Once done, carefully remove the bacon from the oven and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease

Enjoy your perfectly cooked bacon without the mess!


Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Stuffed Crust Pizza Dip



This Stuffed Crust Pizza Dip recipe lets you enjoy the tasty taste of pizza in the form of a dip. It's great for parties, game day, or just a night in. You'll get your pizza fix from the stuffed crust and the cheesy, savory dip.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound pizza dough
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives optional
  • 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni optional
  • 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers optional
  • 1/4 cup sliced onions optional

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375F 190C

Roll out the pizza dough into a circle large enough to fit your oven-safe skillet or baking dish

Place the skillet or baking dish on a flat surface and press the dough into the bottom and up the sides to create the stuffed crust

Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the bottom of the crust

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using

Mix well

Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the mozzarella cheese layer in the crust

Pour marinara sauce over the ricotta mixture and spread it out evenly

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce

If desired, add your optional toppings like black olives, pepperoni, bell peppers, and onions

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving

Serve with breadsticks, crackers, or sliced baguette for dipping


Monday, September 2, 2024

Superfood Spinach Salad w/Roasted Sweet Potatoes



A tasty and healthy dish, this Superfood Spinach Salad with Roasted Sweet Potatoes has the benefits of fresh spinach, the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, and the wonderful tastes of cranberries, pecans, and feta cheese. That tangy and slightly sweet balsamic vinaigrette dressing makes this healthy salad taste even better.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Turn on your oven and heat it up to 425F 220C

Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper to the diced sweet potato and toss it all together

Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet

Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are soft and slightly crispy

The dressing is made by whisking the honey, salt, pepper, and the last tablespoon of olive oil together in a small bowl

To make a salad, put together roasted sweet potatoes, chopped pecans, fresh spinach leaves, and crumbled feta cheese in a large bowl

Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together

Serve right away as a tasty and healthy superfood spinach salad


Watermelon Feta and Mint Quinoa Salad

In this healthy and refreshing summer salad, sweet watermelon, creamy feta cheese, and fresh ...