Dani's Corner

Dani Spies is a Certified Health and Nutrition Counselor, Fitness Trainer and Mom who is passionate about finding simple ways to make real, whole, nutrtious foods a part of an everyday kitchen. More about Dani »

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Bite-Sized Blueberry Bran Muffins

Bite-Sized Blueberry Bran Muffins
Remember the abundance of blueberries I mentioned a few weeks back when I was making my Whole Wheat Blueberry Scones?  

Well, they're baaaaaack...  

Only this time they are jam packed into some Bite Size Blueberry Bran Muffins!  

KidBite: Whole Wheat Pasta w/ Eggplant, Mozzarella, & Tomato Sauce

KidBite: Whole Wheat Pasta w/ Eggplant, Mozzarella, & Tomato Sauce
When treated with a little TLC, eggplant is a very kid-friendly veggie.

It's soft, creamy, mildly nutty and super easy for a 'three-toothed one year' old to mash on the top of her mouth. 

Mixing it with some whole wheat pasta and tomato sauce was an easy way for me to introduce a new veggie to Katie since she absolutely adores her pasta (or as she says, DASTDA).

Video: 20 Minute Tomato Sauce

Video: 20 Minute Tomato Sauce
When my Mom made sauce, she made sauce.

It was always a huge pot and an all day affair.

It was always on Sunday and it will always be a memory that reminds me of my childhood.

Sweet and Tart Beet Dressing

Sweet and Tart Beet Dressing
Having been raised in an Italian kitchen, I usually don't get to fancy with my salad dressings.  

A little olive oil, garlic, and vinegar or lemon juice and I'm a "happy-salad-eatin'-camper" BUT when I found a recipe in the Whole Foods Cookbook for a salad dressing that was made from RAW BEETS, I just had to give it a try. 

Whole Wheat Blueberry Scones

Whole Wheat Blueberry Scones
Big, fat, plump, juicy blueberries have been all over the place lately, which is really no surprise considering it is berry season, but very exciting none-the-less!

The best part about seasonal produce is the price... when there is an abundant supply, there is a decrease in cost (yeah) which is why I had no problem handing a heaping cup of fresh blueberries over to these simple and tasty scones!

Broccoli and Cheese Breakfast Casserole

Broccoli and Cheese Breakfast Casserole
I have so many recipes bookmarked from so many great food blogs out there but somehow or other I always seem to fall back on Kalyn!

This Broccoli and Cheese Breakfast Casserole was inspired by a recipe I found over on Kalyn's Kitchen.  I know you guys know who Kalyn is by now...

Cold Beet and Fennel Soup

Cold Beet and Fennel Soup
Call me naive but I never realized that beets kinda, sorta have a bad rap.

While I was researching different beet recipes, I came upon article after article speaking of the universal challenge people tend to have with beets.  

They are too earthy.  They taste like dirt.  They are too messy to work with!

Roasted Apricot Crunch w/ Vanilla Yogurt Cream - Video

Roasted Apricot Crunch w/ Vanilla Yogurt Cream - Video
Now I'm not bragging... but the truth is that I don't like to watch the news and I very rarely read the newspaper.

What can I say, I'm a sensitive kind of gal and more times than not the news leaves me with thoughts and images in my mind that I find I am better off without!

Enter my husband...

Potato Crusted Swiss Chard Quiche w/ Goat Cheese

Potato Crusted Swiss Chard Quiche w/ Goat Cheese
I think there is a fine line between "healthy eating" and "depriving yourself of foods you love".

There are a lot of "not so healthy" foods that I would never give up simply because the pleasure I get from eating them nourishes me on a whole different level than the simple science of micro and macro nutrients.

For instance...

Asparagus Soup (For the Whole Family)

Asparagus Soup (For the Whole Family)
I admit that I have been less than consistent when it comes to making Katie "baby / toddler" foods.

It's just that when it comes right down to it, it can be challenging enough just to get a nutritious, homemade meal on the table for Beng and I, never mind a separate meal for Katie!  But that does NOT mean that I have not been making great food for Katie because I have, but here's the deal...

Rustic Pesto Potato Salad

Rustic Pesto Potato Salad
When I was growing up both of my parents had very different takes on potato salad

My Mom, who is Irish and German, was all about a good old fashioned potato.  Big chunks of potato, tossed and bathed with lots and lots of real mayo!

My Dad on the other hand, who is 100% Italian, traveled a different road...

Clean and Simple Asparagus Pasta

Clean and Simple Asparagus Pasta
Although I often approach pasta with a very strategic (yet delicious) game plan, sometimes I just need to step away from all the rules and just enjoy a simple, seasonal dish.

I was not in the mood for meat or fish or beans or dairy.

I was simply looking for a QUICK and TASTY way to use up the last lovely bunch of asparagus that was hanging out in my veggie drawer.

Pineapple and Banana Smoothie

Pineapple and Banana Smoothie
If you are wondering why it has taken me three months to post a new KidBite recipe the answer is simple.

Katie has figured out how to do things she wasn't doing three months ago.

I mean three months ago she started doing things like this:


Banana Split Breakfast Bites

Banana Split Breakfast Bites
As I've mentioned in the past, eating healthy does not need to be complicated.

And contrary to popular belief, it does not take any longer to prepare a nutritious meal than it does any other type of meal.

The bottom line is this:

How-To Make Tzaziki - Video

How-To Make Tzaziki - Video
I love looking to other cuisines to find "Clean and Delicious" recipe inspiration!

Tzaziki is a Greek inspired sauce (some say dip) that is made from Greek yogurt and cucumbers and it is very simple to make.


Golden Beet & Beet Green Greens Pasta w/ Ricotta and Feta Cheese

Golden Beet & Beet Green Greens Pasta w/ Ricotta and Feta Cheese
Growing up, there was always a fifty-fifty shot that "macaroni" (as my parents like to call it) would be on the dinner menu.

We easily had pasta three times a week.

Spaghetti and Meatballs,  Linguini and Clam Sauce, Pasta Fagioli, Cheese Raviolis, Lasagna, and Fusilli and Meat Sauce were just some of our childhood staples.

And as a mother who wants to get a simple meal on the table rather quickly, I get it.  Pasta is a fast, easy, and delicious solution BUT how oh how can we ensure that that we are not sitting down to a nutritionally void meal??

Edamame, Mint & Cottage Cheese Pasta - Video

Edamame, Mint & Cottage Cheese Pasta - Video
My Dad is Italian.

My Mom is Irish and German.

But other than some pretty mean stuffed cabbage and a potato salad that is no joke, my Mom kept our kitchen 99% Italian. 

Crunchy Asian Pear and Cabbage Salad

Crunchy Asian Pear and Cabbage Salad
Have we ever discussed my love of "Slaw" before?

I can't remember whether or not we have so I'll just keep this short and sweet:

Beet, Beet Greens, Feta, Dill, and Quinoa Salad

Beet, Beet Greens, Feta, Dill, and Quinoa Salad
Ever notice how fresh, nutritious foods not only taste great BUT also happen to be absolutely beautiful?

I mean honestly, I could walk circles around a good produce section or a local farmers market just ooohing and aaahing at all the beautiful colors and shapes that surround me.

Roasted Spaghetti Squash w/ Broccoli Rabe (aka Rapini) & Canellini Beans

Roasted Spaghetti Squash w/ Broccoli Rabe (aka Rapini) & Canellini Beans
Hip hip hooray for an extra hour of light.

This is huge in my world because it buys me that much more time to get a decent picture of what I'm making for dinner so I can share it with you guys! 

No light = No picture = No new recipes on the blog  -  So needless to say, I'm a happy camper! 

AND can you guess what was for dinner last night?

Simply Spinach (frozen) Soup

Simply Spinach (frozen) Soup
I am not a big "frozen food" person.  

It's not that I have anything against frozen foods (as a matter of fact I can see how they could be a lifesaver for many) I just rarely think to use them.  

Strawberry-Vanilla Protein Oats

Strawberry-Vanilla Protein Oats
Counting calories has never worked for me.  In all honesty it drives me INSANE.  I find myself getting crazy over the littlest things and always end up self sabotaging in one way or another.

This is why the "Clean Eating" style has become my favorite guideline when it comes to eating. Clean Eating does not focus on calories, rather it focuses on...

Roasted Eggplant Couscous Salad

Roasted Eggplant Couscous Salad
I have no groceries in the house, I haven't cooked in about five days and I ate enough chocolate and drank enough "Skinny Girl Margaritas" over the weekend for each and every one of you!!

After a three day getaway to Palm Springs (first one since pre-Katie), this clean-eatin' Mama needs to get her rear in gear.

Game-Day (or any day) Guacamole

Game-Day (or any day) Guacamole
I used to have a video post showing how I liked to make my Guacamole but it was one of the videos I lost in my big video crash!  So in the words of Snookie (from the Jersey Shore)...

Mango and Chickpea Brown Rice Salad

Mango and Chickpea Brown Rice Salad
Gotta love a quick meal that comes together with no plan... just a few random ingredients hanging around the kitchen and BAM...

Rutabaga Mash (and Some Turkey Day Ideas)

Rutabaga Mash (and Some Turkey Day Ideas)
As much as I love veggies (and I really do LOVE em') there are a handful of them that I just don't eat enough of!

The Rutabaga would definitely fall into the category of "Under Appreciated Vegetables" in my life (and my guess is that this may be the same for many of you as well).

Summer Squash Frittata - (video)

Summer Squash Frittata - (video)
As you read the title of this post you are probably thinking, "Summer Squash at the end of October?  Hmmm, a little out of season, no?"

And to this I respond....

Pumpkin Vanilla Oats

Pumpkin Vanilla Oats
Ever notice how versatile pumpkin is? 

Well, it's that time of the year again when pumpkin starts pleading to be mixed into all sorts of d'lishes dishes... sweet, savory, salty, spicy... you name it, pumpkin always seems to find a way to fit in!

Peach and Raspberry Crisp

Peach and Raspberry Crisp
If I had to pick my favorite dessert in the whole wide world it would have to be ANY form of warm fruit CRISP topped with vanilla ice-cream.

Notice I didn't say slump, crumble, or cobbler... for me, it has-to-be THE CRISP.

Greek Style Salad

Greek Style Salad
During the summer months, I often make salad the main course for dinner at least once, if not twice, a week.  Not only is a light and refreshing option during the hotter weather but it also doesn't require me to turn on my stove (or do any actual cooking for that matter) which is a nice option when your husband REFUSES to turn on the air conditioning unless the temperature is ABOVE a hundred degrees and there is NO breeze (which never happens here in SO.Cal - so you can understand why I like no-cook options during the summer months!)

"Rachada" Mushroom Salad

Who would ever think to use raw mushrooms as the main ingredient in a cold salad?

Not me BUT I'll tell you who...

Better than Banana Ice Cream

Better than Banana Ice Cream
This is one of the most amazing little culinary tricks that I've learned yet.  Simply genius. 
I just couldn't wait to share it with you guys...

Onion and Tomato Salad w/ Blue Cheese

Onion and Tomato Salad w/ Blue Cheese
Sometimes I forget how little it takes to make a great salad.  Basically all you need is one in-season veggie along with some salt, pepper, and olive oil to make a knock-your-socks-off salad and this recipe is the perfect example.

Black Bean and Kale Topped Sweet Potatoes w/ Avocado Mash

Black Bean and Kale Topped Sweet Potatoes w/ Avocado Mash
Slight change of plans from the weekly menu plan!  Originally these were going to be Black Bean Tacos but I couldn't resist the big fat pre-cooked sweet potatoes sitting in my fridge!  So I took the same idea BUT swapped sweet potatoes for the taco shells and let me tell you...

Bright Green Oats

Bright Green Oats
Don't ask me why, but the idea of starting the day with a handful of greens mixed into my breakfast makes me really excited.  Not to mention looking down into this colorful bowl seems to be another "feel good" way to start the day... it just looks happy.  It's like my breakfast bowl is smiling at me...

Mint & Dill Romaine Salad (simplicity at its best.)

Mint & Dill Romaine Salad (simplicity at its best.)
Now that we all know how to make our fresh herbs last, I figured you would all be running out to stock the fridge with some of your favorites (just let me believe what I want people) and might be in need of a new clean, simple, and d'lishes recipe idea to put them to use.

Fruit Nut & Oat Cookies

Fruit Nut & Oat Cookies
If you've been reading my blog for a while, surely you don't need me to tell you that I am certainly not the world's most proficient writer;).  Short and to the point tends to be my basic style, so while after eating these cookies I had a hundred of different ways to explain just how absolutely d'lishes they are, the only thing that I can think to say about them now is, "Holy Yum!".

Lentil Joe's

Lentil Joe's
I grew up eating the real-deal Sloppy Joe's (a.k.a. "Manwich")  and I'm not gonna lie... they were one of my favorites!  But as my eating habits shifted, Sloppy Joe's just kind of fell off the radar.

Egg White Scramble (in the microwave!) - Video

Egg White Scramble (in the microwave!) - Video
I know from past experience that I am going to get a handful of "isn't the microwave a not so 'clean' way of making healthy food" questions/comments on this video, so I thought I would start by addressing this point... 

Basil Oil

Basil Oil
Barely a recipe but certainly a super simple way to add a ton of flavor to a dish with very little effort.  And c'mon, let's be honest... who does like to get a lot of bang for a little buck ;).

Peanut Butter Performance Pancakes

Peanut Butter Performance Pancakes
Ahhhh, Southern California... I just finished a beautiful six a.m. hike with my friend Mary, and when I got home boy was I hungry! I wanted something hearty and satisfying without being overly indulgent.  These Peanut Butter Performance Pancakes were exactly what the doctor ordered!

How-To Make Kale Chips - Video

How-To Make Kale Chips - Video
Oh, Kale Chips... where to begin? 

Salty, crunchy, crispy AND nutritious... you are a pregnant (and non-preggo) womans dream!  Unbelievably, amazingly, delicious! 

Sweet and Savory Couscous

Sweet and Savory Couscous
Technically speaking couscous is not a grain.  Essentially, it's a really quick cooking pasta.  It's made from whole wheat durum flour (the same ingredient your whole wheat pastas are made from).

Deviled Eggs - Video

Deviled Eggs - Video
After showing you guys how to make the perfect hard boiled egg last week, I figured I better share a clean and simple way to put them to good use!

How-To Make Stove Top Popcorn - Video

How-To Make Stove Top Popcorn - Video
Popcorn is one of my favorite snacks to make (especially after dinner), BUT I have to admit that I am not a huge fan of microwave popcorn!  I'm also not a big fan of lots of kitchen gadgets (ie. a popcorn maker), which makes this the perfect popcorn recipe for a girl like me...

Rich & Creamy Blue Cheese Dressing (without the fat!)

Rich & Creamy Blue Cheese Dressing (without the fat!)
Blue Cheese dressing is definitely at the top on my list when it comes to salad dressings. Actually, my favorite way to eat a salad is doused with vinegar and dipped into a side of blue cheese dressing... yum!

Oatmeal, Chocolate & Cranberry Cookies

Oatmeal, Chocolate & Cranberry Cookies
Who says oatmeal has to be limited to your breakfast bowl?

These Oatmeal, Chocolate, and Cranberry Cookies are the perfect ending to a clean, simple, and d'lishes meal!

Oatmeal Parfait

Oatmeal Parfait
Hot, fluffy oats... warm bananas and maple syrup... sliced strawberries... creamy yogurt and cottage cheese... crunchy walnuts... I mean, c'mon, do I really need to explain why I have been so obsessed with my morning Oatmeal Parfait?

Happy Valentine's Day!

Happy Valentine's Day!
Why not start your Valentine's Day with a beautiful and healthy meal that will be sure to leave you with plenty of extra room for some Chocolate Covered Strawberries later in the day?!

Super-Foods Chocolate Bark

Super-Foods Chocolate Bark
If you're gonna go there, why not go there with ingredients that add value to your body rather than ingredients that take value away?  It's not like your taste buds are going to be missing out on anything!!  It's a win-win.

Quick and Simple Lentils with Dandelion Greens

Quick and Simple Lentils with Dandelion Greens
Have you guys tried the pre-cooked, vacuum packed, lentils from Trader Joe's?

They are super simple, really convenient and quite tasty!

Simply Steamed Broccoli & Sweet Potato Bowl

Simply Steamed Broccoli & Sweet Potato Bowl

As much as I love to cook, I'd be lying if I said I that I am always in the mood to cook.  On the other hand, I could count on one hand the seldom times in my life when I have not been in the mood to eat!  So what's a girl to do when she is in the mood to eat, but necessarily in the mood to cook? 

Curried Coconut Butternut Squash Soup - Video

Curried Coconut Butternut Squash Soup - Video

I know that I am forever telling you guys how quick and easy "d'lishes, nutritious foods" can be so why should this post be any different?!  This Curried Coconut Buternut Squash Soup is about as simple as it gets and it honestly comes together in about twenty minutes.

Butternut Squash and Pomegranate Salad

Butternut Squash and Pomegranate Salad
D'lishes and beautiful, I will definitely be making this Butternut Squash and Pomegranate Salad again!  I just love the idea of using the flesh of the squash in a salad, it just goes to show you just how darn versatile Butternut Squash really is.

Cranberry Studded Bean Dip

Cranberry Studded Bean Dip
Rich, creamy and oh-so-satisfying, you would never know this tasty Bean Dip was packed with so much nutritious goodness!

Chocolate-Peppermint Mini Grahams

Chocolate-Peppermint Mini Grahams
If you're in need of a super-simple-fun-and-festive holiday treat than look no further because these "Chocolate-Peppermint Mini Grahams" are all of the above!   Who would think you could make such a lovely little treat using only three ingredients?!  So I thought in the name of a little holiday fun, I would provide you with: 

Seriously Simple Acorn Squash

Seriously Simple Acorn Squash
You introuduce to me to someone who says they don't like veggies and I can just about guarantee you that it's because they haven't really tried the enormous variety of veggies that exisit!!  These poor souls can only remember the over cooked broccoli and boiled brussel sprouts they ate a kid and have been cheating themselves out of some absolutely d'lishes foods!!

Chocolate-Peanut Butter "Pizza"

Chocolate-Peanut Butter
Although my Chocolate-Peanut Butter "Pizza" isn't much of a recipe per say, it sure is a "yummy-scrummy-I just-feel-like-having-something-good-to-eat" snack idea! 

Mashed Cauliflower - Video

Mashed Cauliflower - Video

*Updated with a video 11/09 - You guys asked for this recipe to be demonstrated in a video, so here ya go!

Let me first say, that I have nothing against potatoes. As a matter of fact, I love potatoes... especially baked potatoes.  Oooooh and french fries.  I really love french fries.  I'd be lying if I said I that a crispy, crunchy, perfectly salted, fry didn't do it for me.  I mean seriously, is it even possible to not like a French fry??

But, here's the deal...

"No-Bake Sweet Potato Pie" Pancakes

It doesn't happen often, but every now and then I come up with a recipe that impresses even me!  These "No-Bake Sweet Potato Pie" Pancakes were just one of those recipes where I really felt the need to pat myself on the back, and not just because they taste amazing...

Crunchy Topped Apple Oat Bran Muffins

Crunchy Topped Apple Oat Bran Muffins

Apparently, when one becomes pregnant, while the body focuses on nourishing the little blueberry, other bodily systems can have the the tendency to slow down.  Let's just say I've been keeping the local bakeries in business lately buying bran muffins for breakfast and decided it was due time to get into the kitchen and whip up my own!

 

Triple Herbed Potato Salad

Triple Herbed Potato Salad
Potatoes get a bad rap.  It's the whole "high glycemic index thing" that sends people into a "potatoes-are-the-anti-christ" frenzy.  Sure potatoes have a lot of carbs and a high glycemic index but for the love of God they grow out of the ground... how bad can they be??  Let's discuss...

Curried Black Bean and Sweet Potato Skillet

Curried Black Bean and Sweet Potato Skillet

Although it is still 75 degrees and sunny here in So.Cal you can still begin to sense that fall is right around the corner.  The nights are a little cooler, the days are a little shorter, and the only place I want to be is in the kitchen whipping up some of my warm and comforting fall favorites like this Curried Black Bean and Sweet Potato Skillet!

Strawberry-Vanilla Smoothie - Video

Strawberry-Vanilla Smoothie - Video

Here in Southern California, September is one of the hottest months we have so this Strawberry-Vanilla Smoothie is still on my menu.

Besides, I really wanted to sneak in one more summery QuickBite before we start cuddling into the warmer foods of fall.

Whole Wheat Penne w/ No-Cook Tomato Sauce & White Beans

Whole Wheat Penne w/ No-Cook Tomato Sauce & White Beans
I know I left you guys high and dry this Labor Day weekend but the truth is I didn't do much cooking.  I'm headed to Jersey later this week to spend a week down the shore with my family so I was laying pretty low this weekend.  But I did get to make this Whole Wheat Penne w/ No-Cook Tomato Sauce and White Beans!

The PB&B Sandwich - The Ultimate Snack Food

The PB&B Sandwich - The Ultimate Snack Food
Unlike the self-proclaimed life of Denise Richards, eating well does NOT need to be complicated.  Sure we can complicate it if we want to and more often than not we do, but the truth is that it doesn't have to be that way.

Protein Pancakes

Protein Pancakes

I wasn't planning on posting this recipe for Protein Pancakes this week, but after this conversation that I had with my Dad, I changed my mind!

It went something like this: 

Mango-Ginger-Blueberry Crisp

Mango-Ginger-Blueberry Crisp

Rememeber all the extra mangos I mentioned I had on hand last week?  Well it didn't take long to figure out what to do with them! 

Mango Cucumber Salsa w/ a Kiss of Rosemary

Mango Cucumber Salsa w/ a Kiss of Rosemary

Gotta love the mango... sweet, hearty, creamy, cooling and overall d'lishes!  I mean really, what's not to like?! 

And it just so happens that I've got mangoes coming out of the wazoo...

Apple and Cheddar Egg "Pizza"

Apple and Cheddar Egg

Hey guys... I'M BACK!  Lot's of fun, long trip, happy to be home BUT most importantly... happy to be back in my kitchen with my knife and my cutting board!  Man oh man, did I miss cooking!

Frozen Banana and Cacao Topped Yogurt

Frozen Banana and Cacao Topped Yogurt
As a Health Counselor and Food Coach I find that many of my clients are more interested in clean, simple, and d'lishes ideas than they are actual recipes.  It's not they don't enjoy the recipes, it's just that for most, a normal, busy work week just doesn't allow the time for them. 

Fruit and Flax Smoothie

Fruit and Flax Smoothie
For those of you that receive my newsletter, this Fruit and Flax Smoothie is old news.  This is the smoothie that was the featured this June as the recipe of the month. (what can I say, I've been a busy girl... notice there were no new videos this month??  Let's just say I've fallen a little behind schedule, but I promise... they will be back;)).

Broccoli "Slaw"

Broccoli

Don't ask me why, but it seems every time I went to the grocery store this week I bought broccoli. 

Broccoli, broccoli, broccoli. 

So when I peeked in the veggie drawer last night to decide what was gonna be for dinner, guess what came pouring out?  Yep.  Broccoli!  Broccoli and a head of Napa Cabbage.

Sesame Kale w/ Mushrooms

Sesame Kale w/ Mushrooms

Although there really are tons of Leafy Greens to choose from, Kale tends to be one of my favorites.  It's just SO HEARTY and SO RICH and SO SATISFYING that it seems to be my green of choice. 

Kale has so much to offer and if you still haven't tried it then we seriously need to talk! 

Soba Noodle Salad w/ Mizuna

Soba Noodle Salad w/ Mizuna

Spring time is naturally a very cleansing time of year.  After a long, cold winter of heartier, heavier foods, Spring rolls in with its fresh, light flavors that are designed by nature to help clean us out and lighten us up a bit!

Leafy greens are the number one ingredient missing in the American diet which is why I've decided to focus on Spring Leafy Greens this month!
 

Asparagus and Tofu Stir-Fry w/ Cashews

Asparagus and Tofu Stir-Fry w/ Cashews

Ever since the beginning of "Asparagus" month, I have had a stir-fry on the brain. I just wasn't sure exactly what I wanted to do.  So I began searching around on some other food blogs for ideas (which by the way is about the only place I search for recipes online these days).

I found a recipe that caught my eye over at The Perfect Pantry and decided to give it a try. (if you have never visited The Perfect Pantry before you really must, you'll learn everything you'll ever need to know about items you can keep in your pantry)! 

I pretty much stuck to the recipe except I bulked up the veggie department a bit and added some tofu in order to get a little protein into the meal.  Speaking of tofu, let me give you a little tofu tip...

Asparagus and Herb Omelet - Video

Asparagus and Herb Omelet - Video
Food is simple AND cooking is simple.   It's that simple.

Of all of the cooking classes I have attended, all the cook books I have read, and all the cooking shows I've watched, there is one on going fact that seems to be repeated:  Keep it Simple!

Israeli Couscous Salad w/ Asparagus and Feta

Israeli Couscous Salad w/ Asparagus and Feta

My initial plan was to make this salad using farro, but I couldn't get my hands on any so I turned to the cupboard for a convenient alternative.

I wanted to use a heartier grain or rice and thought Israeli couscous would do the job.  Couscous is really just another form of pasta (it's like really little pasta balls).  The only difference between Israeli couscous and regular couscous is the size. Israeli couscous is bigger and the size makes for a great texture (just be sure to cook your couscous like you would your pasta... al dente!).

Balsamic Asparagus with Chopped Eggs

Balsamic Asparagus with Chopped Eggs

So here we go...another asparagus recipe!  And you probably won't be suprised to hear me say that this is another super easy dish!

As far as the asparagus goes, all I did was steam it up.  Which reminds me...

Simply Grilled Asparagus

Simply Grilled Asparagus

Grilling is one of my favorite ways to enjoy asparagus As a matter of fact as the weather gets warmer I like grilled just about anything!

This is a very simple way to cook asparagus and it's quick too.  Try serving it with a squish of fresh lemon or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar when it's done cooking.  Enjoy!

Spring-Time Asparagus Pasta

Spring-Time Asparagus Pasta

I love when things just work themselves out effortlessly.  You know those times when everything just comes together without any thought or struggle.  Just a little non-linear, unorganized, spontaneous inspiration.  I seriously love that!

Banana Boat

Banana Boat
Oh, where to begin?!  This is simplicity at it's best!!

Banana.  Peanut butter.  Cacao Nibs.  Goji Berries.  That's it!

Napa Cabbage and Watercress Salad

Napa Cabbage and Watercress Salad

Here's another quick recipe starring, "Cabbage"The cabbage with it's cool, crunchy self was perfecty paired with the tender, spicy watercress. I served this with some Curry Coated Tilapia (which I'll be posting soon) and I've gotta say, it was d'lishes!

Braised Red Cabbage and Apples

Braised Red Cabbage and Apples

Back to cabbage!  Braised red cabbage is a pretty classic side dish, but it is not a dish that I ever ate growing up.  As a matter of fact the first time I ever had this dish was at Houston's, they often serve it as a side dish topped with goat cheese (that's what gave me the idea).

Red Cabbage Salad

Red Cabbage Salad

When I was growing up we always had red cabbage in the fridge.  We didn't get too experimental with it, it was pretty much used as a staple in our "green salad".  That green salad made it to the table almost every night of the week and it was one of the only things that my sister and I were allowed to make (since there was no cooking involved).

Cilantro Slaw

Cilantro Slaw
Certainly I can't do a cabbage month and not post any slaw recipes!!

Now if you think you don't like coleslaw, stay tuned... because there are so many different ways of making it you just might bump into an idea that turns you on!

Cabbage with Dill and Peas

Cabbage with Dill and Peas

So, here we go... cabbage recipe numero uno!  This side dish is a very quick and simple one to make. 

Cabbage loves dill so I decided to pick up some dill when I was at the grocery store this week and let me tell ya, I'm happy I did because it really brought this dish to life.

Minty-Pea Quinoa

Minty-Pea Quinoa

When it comes to finding a quick way to spruce up a side dish the key is ingredient is FRESH HERBS.

Fresh herbs are a small way to pack BIG FLAVOR,
without needing a lot of time or additional ingredients.  Just chop up a few tablespoons of whatever herb you choose and you can completely transform your dish. 

Butternut Squash and Quinoa Frittata

Butternut Squash and Quinoa Frittata

Mmmmm, mmmm, mmmm am I loving Quinoa!! I made a big bucket of it over the weekend and have been throwing it in to just about everything all week long. 

When I saw this recipe over at Anticiplate,  I just knew I was gonna have to give it a go.   

Quick-Quinoa Breakfast

Quick-Quinoa Breakfast

New Quinoa recipe number two... Quinoa Porridge!

I've made this recipe a few times in the past but was recently reminded of it when I saw this post over at Closet Cooking (I love that site, Kevin is always trying something new).

Quinoa Raisin Muffins

Quinoa Raisin Muffins

Batters up!  Here is my first new recipe using Quinoa this month.  I must say, quinoa is one of those ingredients that just has my wheels spinning... there are so many things you can do with it.

For some reason my mind keeps going toward sweets like muffins, cookies, and puddings but don't worry, I'm determined to get some savory dishes in there as well.  As a matter of fact, I'm thinking about making a Butternut Squash and Quinoa Frittata for dinner tonight... I'll keep you guys posted.

Clean and Simple Egg White "Omlette"

Clean and Simple Egg White

So this one isn't so much a recipe as it is an idea. 

Really you can use any veggies or any cheese that you have hanging out in the fridge, it's is less about the details and more about the big picture.

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchilada's

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchilada's
Are you looking for a warm, nutritious, comforting meal that will knock your socks off??  Well, my friends... look no further because this is the one!

I saw this recipe over at Karina's Kitchen (a gluten-free blog), and loved it so much I made it twice in one week. Yep.  Twice.

Black Bean and Avocado Salsa

Black Bean and Avocado Salsa

Just made this for dinner along with a very simple Teriyaki Tuna that I threw on the Foreman Grill (actually my husband did the "grilling... what is it with guys and the grill?).

This is definitely one of my go-to side dishes. 

Butternut Squash Chili w/ Kale

Butternut Squash Chili w/ Kale

I know that technically last week kicked off the New Year but for me this week is really the official kickoff.  This Butternut Squash Chili w/ Kale is the perfect meal to start off the New Year on the right foot!

Greens and Beans (Yum!)

Greens and Beans (Yum!)

Here's a little trivia for you guys...

What's the number one ingredient missing from the American diet?  Now I don't wanna give it a way or anything, but I'll give you a hint... look at the picture above. 

Yep... you guessed it, dark leafy greens or any dark greens for that matter.  Crazy, right?

 

Spaghetti Squash with Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower

Spaghetti Squash with Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower

I am a huge fan of Spaghetti Squash and I'm really surprised to realize that I have never posted a recipe using Spaghetti Squash before!  Huh... go figure:).

 

Spinach Scramble - Video

Spinach Scramble - Video

*updated from the archives.

As you may know, I am a big fan of "whole foods" and I think that whole eggs are a perfectly delicious and nutritious food.  I love adding them to just about anything; breakfast, lunch, or dinner. But anytime I am trying to pull back on my calorie intake a bit without pulling back on flavor, I skip the yolks and stick to the whites

Chocolate and Peanut Butter Oatmeal

Chocolate and Peanut Butter Oatmeal

Here's another simple and d'lishes way to whip up some oatmeal for breakfast.  Remember, I almost always make my oatmeal ahead of time,  so all I  have to do is reheat it with some yummy "add-in's" come breakfast.

"Pear Cobbler" Oatmeal

What's a Jersey girl to do on Christmas Eve Day when the temperature is about to reach 75 degrees here in Southern California?

Why, make a breakfast that would hit the spot in the middle of a snowstorm, of course!  I mean, c'mon... how else am I gonna make it feel like Christmas??

Steel Cut Oats

Steel Cut Oats

Okay, so this isn't exactly a recipe, it's more of a strategy that I use to be sure that I have time for a nutritious breakfast.

No-Bake Sweet Potato Pie - Video

No-Bake Sweet Potato Pie - Video
Last year I made a NO-Bake Apple Pie that I loved so much I really wanted to come up with some more "No-Bake" Pie ideas.  

I mean basically I just pick a pie, think of all of the flavors and ingredients that go into it and then SIMPLIFY!! 

Brown Rice Crispy Treats

Brown Rice Crispy Treats

Tis' the season to jump into the kitchen and whip up some of your favorite goodies...  right??

These little goodies are SO GOOD.  It's funny because they taste exactly like rice crispy treats BUT there is no marshmallow involved... huh?!  Go figure!

Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Baked Sweet Potato Fries

I think I've mentioned it before but that won't stop me from saying it again, "I love fries".  Love em'!

What's not to love? Seriously, you tell me because I can't think of one thing.  

I also love sweet potatoes (what can I say, I just love food)... so needless to say, these fries really do it for me; they're the best of both worlds.

Eggs-on-Quick Veggie Brown Rice

Eggs-on-Quick Veggie Brown Rice

I just had to show you another way I like to eat the Veggie Brown Rice. 

I'm telling you guys, ya throw an egg on top of just about anything and you've got yourself a meal.  I usually have this for breakfast but it would definetely work for lunch or even a light dinner. 

Quick-Veggie Brown Rice

Quick-Veggie Brown Rice

This dish is a perfect example of how a little "pre-preppin'" can save you A LOT of time.

I always have a container of some type of rice or grain ready to go for the week so when I'm pressed for time I can still eat something that is clean, simple, and d'lishes!:). 

Roasted Root Veggies

Roasted Root Veggies

Talk about a feel good food.  Roasted roots satisfy on so many different levels.  They are warm, sweet, salty, savory, hearty and so, so satisfying.  This is one dish where you think to your self, "Could something so simple and d'lishess really be SO good for me?"

And the answer is Yes!  Yes. Yes. Yes. And yes!

Quinoa, Leek & Cherry Stuffing

Quinoa, Leek & Cherry Stuffing

Can you believe that Thanksgiving is just two weeks away?? Just two weeks!

I don't know that I'll be cooking Thanksgiving dinner this year.  In all honesty, I have been experimenting with different Turkey Day dishes since September, so I kind have that, "been there, done that, and don't really need to do it again" feeling.  But then again who knows.  I've been known to change my mind.

Anyway, let's talk turkey, or in this case, stuffing!

Quinoa

Quinoa

If you haven't tried Quinoa (pronounced keen-wa) I'd say, "now's the time".  It's clean, simple, and d'lishes (I know I'm a dork, but I couldn't resist).

Technically, Quinoa is a seed, but for all intents and purposes we'll keep things simple and group it with the grains.  And in the world of grains, it just doesn't get any easier than Quinoa.

Swiss Chard w/ Peppers and Garbanzos

Swiss Chard w/ Peppers and Garbanzos
I usually pick up a couple bunches of leafy greens when I'm doing my grocery shopping... whatever looks good, I'm not too picky. This week it just so happened to be Swiss Chard.

Cumin Scented White Beans

Cumin Scented White Beans

Yikes, I almost forgot... this is the Cumin Scented White Bean recipe that I promised!  I served them with my Simply Seared Tuna w/ Triple Herb Sauce. They literally take all of ten minutes to throw together!

Banana Oat Muffins

Banana Oat Muffins

What can I say... the cool, crisp air really gets me in the mood for baking!  I have to be careful though, because unlike so many talented bakers out there, I have a hard time keeping my fingers out of the batter OR resisting anything that is fresh baked out the oven!

Quick-No-Cook Breakfast

Quick-No-Cook Breakfast

"Breakfast is the most important meal of the day!

How many times have we all heard this? 

Maybe there's something to it...

Summer Lovin' Veggie Soup

Summer Lovin' Veggie Soup

Although I don't have a garden of my own bursting with veggies that are begging to be eatin' up, what I do have are glorious Southern California Farmer's Markets that are bursting with veggies (and fruits, nuts, breads, etc.) that are begging to be eaten up!! 

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

Hummus is very simple to make at home.

This recipe only takes about five minutes to whip up and you can really taste the difference between home made and store bought.