Brussels Sprout Gratin


Friends, it is my call of duty in life to get these darn kids to EAT THEIR BRUSSELS! It’s debatable, no? I mean is it really required? Sure they love plenty of the veggies we serve around here, great, fantastic, I’ll take it! But they just don’t do the whole Brussels Sprout deal. They cringe at just the mere sight of them…before even a taste.

But Im a giant fan…and so is Nick…and it has been my 6-year long quest to find a way for these kiddos to see that they really are yummy. We roast them, throw maple syrup on them, butter them to the nines, even shred them and still, nothing. Nada. “Mom, I tried them but I just don’t care for them” is usually the response I get when they are served.

So, it is with great accomplishment and near tears of joy that I present to you the recipe that has done it. They are believers. They are Brussels Sprout believers!  Continue reading

Best Beef Stew


You guys, I just can shake this need for comfort food! It’s officially spring, but this weather has me feeling the need to stay warm and cozy. Am I alone here? We are slowly sprinkling in lighter, brighter foods these days, but for now, this stew is tasting so very yummy! Continue reading

Buffalo Shrimp Salad


Hi buddies! Wanted to drop by and officially remind you (I’m sure you don’t need the reminder-my guess is you have been counting down the days, too) that tomorrow is officially the first day of spring. SPRING! Hallelujah! Continue reading

Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken Burrito Bowls


After a friend recently asked for this recipe it occurred to me I don’t even think I’ve shared it with you..which is an absolute disgrace considering how much I utilize this one. Continue reading

Best Ever Quick Chicken Noodle Soup


Happy flu/cold season! Has it hit your house yet? Fortunately the kids have managed to dodge the flu (please, karma, don’t jinx me here) but we’ve all had a round of yucky colds. And, as I made this recipe for about the 5th time since Christmas, it occurred to me I don’t think I’ve even shared it with you!

I realize “best ever” is fairly aggressive, friends. But for as little time and ingredients you need to put into this soup I’m not sure you’ll find an easier recipe that yields this kind of superior comforting, savory flavor. My kids love this…and I wish you could see the baby kicking those chubby feet when he gets to indulge in a piece of crusty bread that’s soppedup all of the broth…it’s a sight for sore eyes! It just has that warm, healing effect. Such a staple! Continue reading

4 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chorizo Queso Dip


Well, friends, the Vikings lost. While I’m not much of a follower of the NFL, that game was a major deal in our home. Mostly because we were excited to watch our hometown team while having an “appetizer dinner” on the couch….but nonetheless, my heart couldn’t help but break a little for those players. It was a good run, MN!

Our dinner consisted of the worlds largest charcuterie board put together by the kids complete with dips, fruits, meats, chocolate, nuts, the whole she-bang…and this queso dip. This little gem of a queso dip! Continue reading

Korean Steak Tacos


My guess is if you’ve ever had Korean Beef Tacos in any way, shape or form I’m not going to have to do much convincing here to get you to make this recipe. But just, in the tiniest case, that you’ve never been blessed with such a delightful experience, let me just say a few words of encouragement… Continue reading

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Bowls with Avocado-Cilantro Dressing


Happy New Year, friends! I hope your 2018 has been off to a great start!

Nothing like starting the year off with a bright, healthy, oh-so-yummy new meal to add to your rotation, right? This time of year meals can get so mundane for me. I love a good soup or stew, don’t get me wrong. But with the lack of fresh ingredients available the inspiration for new dishes can just be way more challenging. But I’ll take the challenge…because this one is a sure thing!

Continue reading

Baby Food: Savory Lentil and Veggie Purée 


Ok mamas, papas and caregivers…can we talk baby food super briefly?

Man am I learning that sometimes you just have to bite the bullet and go the store bought food route which I’m totally ok with..I love all of the healthful options they make these days and it’s so convenient. But here’s my beef…why do these companies feel the need to make everything taste sweet?! Even if those jars have spinach, green beans or peas in them they often times still wind up putting pears or apples in the bulk of the ingredients. I love that my baby is getting veggies “snuck in” to these varieties because of the nutrients. But I also want him to taste savory…and learn how delicious veggies can be in savory form. Continue reading

Cranberry Almond Muffins


I hope you all had a wonderful thanksgiving! And now we enter the holidays…bring on the warm, cozy food! It’s a great time of year to utilize all of the gorgeous fresh cranberries around and this recipe celebrates them in the most wonderful way.

It took me a couple try’s to get this recipe right….and now, I feel pretty darn good sharing it with you because man, oh man, are they a treat! Continue reading