Thursday, October 27, 2016

Banana Crumb Muffins

After many mediocre banana muffin recipes, I finally found one that is worthy of my muffin pan: Banana Crumb Muffins.  These muffins are moist, have the perfect amount of banana flavor, and have accents of cinnamon, sugar and nutmeg that make them perfect for Fall.  Topped with a cinnamon and butter streusel, they are sinfully delicious (and not that bad for you, shockingly). Recipe below.





Pistachio Pesto Pizza


I just came across this Pistachio Pesto Pizza from my trusty recipe drawer and it was a homerun!  I made a few tweaks on my end and served it with Giada's Veal Milanese (topped with baby arugula, shaved parmesan, and fresh lemon).  My husband said it was one of the best meals he's had in a long time. 

The pizza is even good two days later (I ate it alongside my Spaghetti Squash Lasagna with Spinach). 

This could also serve as a great appetizer for Thanksgiving. 

Recipe below:

Wednesday, October 26, 2016

Autumn Ingredient Salad

With November upon us, it's time to start planning for most important meal of the year. Here is a vibrant salad that celebrates Autumn's most popular vegetables like cauliflower, butternut squash, brussel sprouts and dried fruits (mulberries and pomegranate seeds), all woven together by a mouthwatering horseradish, garlic and chili flake dressing. Not only is this salad delicious and healthy but it can also be made a day in advance, which is key when prepping for Thanksgiving.



Recipe after the break:

Spaghetti Squash Lasagna with Spinach


Comfort food doesn't have to be unhealthy when you choose a base like spaghetti squash and pair it with (lightened) traditional lasagna ingredients... like low-fat ricotta and mozzarella cheese.  Try this Spaghetti Squash Lasagna with Spinach from Cooking Light to see what I mean. It's divine.

I recommend prepping the squash in advance since it takes an hour alone to cook in the oven for the base before you add any of the lasagna ingredients.  You can always microwave it if you don't have time. I used vodka sauce and loved it!

Enjoy! Recipe after the jump:

Catalina-Cranberry Chicken


After a quick trip down memory lane, I decided to make my (late) Grandma Rose's favorite weeknight meal and it truly hit the spot: Catalina-Cranberry Chicken served with brown rice and steamed green beans with lemon and parmesan. It's healthy-ish, downright comforting, tangy yet sweet, and de-licious. Perfect for a night on the couch watching the Cubs in the World Series. Go Cubs Go! Did I mention that this recipe is made with just four ingredients? It's the easiest dish in the book.

PC: Kraft

Halloween ideas on the go


Here are some easy take-along recipes if you're headed to a kids Halloween party:

Hot Dog Mummies:
I made these tonight for my kids and froze the rest for Halloween on Monday. How cute is the ketchup and mustard spider web?


Salted Caramel Butter bars:
My MIL introduced me to these insanely amazing, crowd-stopping bars. A hit with kids and adults alike. 


Dirt Dessert Recipe:
A popular recipe from your youth that never gets old. You can also portion them out for kids in individual cups. 


I'll also be bringing one of my favorite cornbread recipes to go along with my friend's chili:

Iron-Skillet Cornbread: 


or 

Ina's Corn Muffins: 


Happy Halloween!


PC: southernliving, recipediaries, browneyedbaker, bonappetit, foodnetwork

Monday, October 10, 2016

Mini Meatball Pasta Bake


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While I normally don't enjoy being summoned by my kids during a work out (since it is the only time that I watch the Food Network), a recent interruption proved worthwhile because my son saw this Mini Meatball Pasta Bake being prepared by the Pioneer Woman and begged me to make it for him. As a Mom of a picky eater, this was a dream come true so you can bet your bottom dollar that I ditched my treadmill and ran to the store instead. Fast forward a few hours later and this was the best decision I ever made since all three of my kids licked their plates clean. I don't know if this is just a case of an unbelievable dish to serve all kids everywhere-for all future playdates and holidays or if my kids are just getting older and are starting to enjoy the finer things in life... regardless, it is a must-make and is wonderful for the whole famiglia.

Feel free to use a healthier pasta or spiralized option for a lower carb meal. And don't forget to sprinkle extra grated parmesan on top before serving.

Finally, I served mine with a cauliflower pizza. (Also by the Pioneer Woman). This is a no-fail recipe and will be my go-to for years to come.

Recipe after the jump:

Saturday, October 8, 2016

Maple and Mustard Seared Tuna

Here's the perfect recipe for keeping things light during the work week: Maple and Mustard Seared Tuna Steak. The flavor combination of maple syrup, lemon juice, red pepper, and dijon mustard yields a perfectly flavorful steak that won't leave you feeling full and restless. Pair it with roasted green beans or mashed (japanese) sweet potatoes.

PC: Cooking light



Friday, October 7, 2016

Apple Snickerdoodle Muffins


With three kids in school and a year-long work project under my belt, I feel like I can conquer the culinary world. While some ladies nest and organize their house, I organize my kitchen and meals. Left over challah? No problem, I'll make a freezer full of french toast. Too many bananas? Say hello to my Peanut Butter Banana Muffins.  The list goes on and on.  

My latest conquest came about with too many apples in my refrigerator: Apple Snickerdoodle Muffins. These muffins are light and airy with the perfect addition of apples layered in cinnamon and sugar. (I swear they are light, look at the ingredients). 

I can't think of a more perfect breakfast or snack for Fall. 

Recipe after the break: