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5 Best Thanksgiving Sides for the Holiday Season

5 Best Thanksgiving Sides for the Holiday Season

Photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels

Thanksgiving is here with us again. If you’re looking for delicious thanksgiving sides, then this article is for you. Thanksgiving dinner is not complete without side dishes, from sweet potato casserole to stuffing, homemade soups, or cranberry sauce. Here are the top five thanksgiving sides that you’ll love.

Cranberry Sauce1

Nothing beats freshly made cranberry sauce as a compliment to your thanksgiving menu. Make the best cranberry sauce with this thanksgiving side recipe in less than 15 minutes with just five ingredients. The combination of cinnamon and orange juices gives both a sweet and tart taste. You will love it. The best part is that you can prepare three days in advance to enhance the flavor.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups freeze dried cranberries
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 1½ cups sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • Peel of 2 oranges
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • Salt to taste

Directions

  1. In a large saucepan, combine water, sugar, and orange juice. Then, add rehydrated cranberries, a pinch of salt, orange peels, and cinnamon sticks.
  2. Let the mixture simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently.
  3. Cook for about 10 minutes while stirring frequently or until all or most of the cranberries have popped.
  4. Set aside to cool for about 30 minutes. Use immediately or refrigerate until ready to use.

Roasted Cauliflower2

Want to make healthy thanksgiving sides? Look no further than this crisp and delicious roasted cauliflower with toasted panko and raisings. The panko breadcrumbs bring the crispy feel, while the raisins bring in the sweet and tangy taste and will wow your taste buds. Your kids will not even notice that they are eating vegetables.

Ingredients

  • 8 cups of freeze dried cauliflower
  • ½ cup panko bread crumbs
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon dried red bell pepper
  • ¼ cup pine nuts
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 2/3 cup raisins
  • 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Directions

  1. Heat oven to 425°F. Spread the rehydrated cauliflower on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle olive oil, salt, and pepper and toss to coat evenly. Roast for about 40 minutes or until the florets are golden and crispy, tossing occasionally.
  2. Meanwhile, roast the pine nuts in a pan over medium heat for about 5 minutes until lightly brown. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
  3. Melt butter in the pan over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and toss until lightly brown. Then, set aside.
  4. Add the chicken broth, vinegar, and raisins to another saucepan over medium heat. Simmer until the liquid reduces in quantity and the raisins become plump.
  5. Mix all the elements: the roasted cauliflower, pine nuts, panko, raisin mixture, and parsley. Toss until well combined. Serve warm.

Sweet Potato Casserole3

What is Thanksgiving without sweet potato casserole? This sweet potato casserole is the best thanksgiving side dish you’ll ever have with minimal ingredients. The pecans add a nutty and crunchy feel to the velvety casserole.

Ingredients

  • 10 cups freeze dried sweet potatoes
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 cups almond milk
  • ½ cup fresh sage leaves
  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger
  • Black pepper to taste
  • A pinch of sea salt

For the Topping

  • 1 ½ cups oats
  • 1 cup pecans
  • 1 cup walnuts
  • 2 tablespoons dried sliced garlic
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1 tablespoon separate
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, minced
  • 2 tablespoons sea salt
  • Black pepper to taste

 Directions

  1. Rehydrate the sweet potatoes.
  2. To make the topping, combine oats, half of the olive oil, pecans, walnuts, garlic, maple syrup,  thyme, rosemary, and salt in a food processor and pulse until just combined. Then, set aside.
  3. Place the sweet potato in a food processor. Add in the remaining olive oil, milk, ginger, salt, and pepper and pulse to combine. Spread the mixture into the baking tin.
  4. Sprinkle the topping, additional nuts, and sage over the sweet potato. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for about 20 minutes or until the topping browns and is crispy.

Broccoli and Cheese Casserole4

This thanksgiving side will spice up your thanksgiving dinner menu. Use freeze dried broccoli to save time for washing and cutting them up.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups freeze dried broccoli, rehydrated
  • 1 ½ cup chicken soup cream
  • 2 tablespoons melted  butter
  • 8 ounces processed cheese, sliced
  • 2 sleeves round crackers, crushed

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Spread broccoli into a medium baking tin. Sprinkle half of the melted butter over the broccoli, add the chicken soup and stir until combined. Spread evenly on the dish.
  3. Spread half of the cheese slices over the broccoli mixture. Then, bake for about 25 minutes.
  4. Then, remove from the oven and stir to blend the broccoli with the cheese evenly. Cover with remaining cheese, sprinkle with crackers, and the remaining butter.
  5. Put it back in the oven. Then, bake for about 20 minutes or until the cheese starts to melt.
  6. Set the casserole aside for about 15 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.

Vegan Bologne Sauce5

If you are vegan or want to try meatless thanksgiving sides, try this tasty sauce made from textured soy that is high in protein and will be ready in a few minutes. The best part is that no one will notice or crave meat.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Add water to a pot, add salt and let it boil. Add the pasta and let it cook according to the instructions on the pack.
  2. Heat the oil in a large pan and add the rehydrated vegetables for about two minutes. Add in the tomato paste and the water and stir well. Add in the textured soy protein and the thyme, mix correctly, then cook for another two minutes.
  3. Add the soy sauce, stir well and add salt and pepper to your liking. Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top.
  4. Serve with pasta and your favorite salad. You can sprinkle some Parmesan on your pasta dish if you are not vegan.

Don’t forget to add these easy Thanksgiving sides to your Thanksgiving dinner menu. Share your thoughts in the comments section below. Happy eating!

 References

  1. https://www.momontimeout.com/best-ever-cranberry-sauce/
  2. https://themodernproper.com/roasted-cauliflower
  3. https://www.loveandlemons.com/sweet-potato-casserole/
  4. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/219596/thanksgiving-broccoli-and-cheese-casserole/
  5. https://www.onegreenplanet.org/vegan-recipe/meaty-pasta-bolognese-sauce/
5 Dried Jalapeño Pepper Recipes That’ll Turn Up the Heat

5 Dried Jalapeño Pepper Recipes That’ll Turn Up the Heat

dried jalapeno flakes
Photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich from Pexels

If you're a fan of spicy food, you know all about the warmth and zingy aftertaste that comes with adding jalapeños to your meals. But deseeding the spicy pepper can often be a handful. So, this is where dried jalapeño flakes come in.

Made from actual jalapeño peppers, the flakes are just as nutritious as the real deal and pack the same heat. They're also easier to work with as they can be used as regular spices (a teaspoon here and a tablespoon there).

So, if you're ready to make spicy-food cooking a breeze, these five spicy recipes will show you how to cook with dried jalapeño peppers and turn your dishes into hot masterpieces!

1. Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread Muffins

Laced with dried jalapeño peppers, these cornbread muffins are the perfect side to any dish, from soups to meatloaf. Their slightly spicy flavor also pairs great with chicken, whether grilled, baked, or in a salad.

Ingredients:

  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 cup dried jalapeño peppers
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • A pinch of salt

Directions:

1. Add the jalapeños and 1/2 cup of warm water to a cup and soak for 15 minutes. Drain and squeeze gently to remove excess liquid. Set aside.

2. Preheat the oven to 350oF and line a muffin tin with cupcake lines. Set aside.

3. Add the egg, sugar, milk, and butter to a bowl and stir to combine.

4. Add the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to a bowl and combine. Make sure not to overmix the batter.

5. Fold in the cheese and dried jalapeño flakes.

6. Transfer the batter to the muffin tin and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the muffins are golden brown. Remove from the oven, let cool, and enjoy!

2. Jalapeño Bean Dip

No legume pairs better with jalapeños than pinto beans. In this recipe, the duo teams up to create a silky-smooth dip with a zing that's perfect for game nights, family dinners, and even potlucks. Top with cilantro for bonus presentation points!

Ingredients:

Directions:

1. Add the bacon and 1/2 cup of warm water to a bowl and soak for 15 minutes. Drain and squeeze gently to remove excess liquid. Set aside.

2. Meanwhile, add the beans to a pot, fill with water until they're covered, and bring to a boil. Cook for half an hour until they're fork-tender. Drain and transfer to a food processor.

3. Add the mayo, cream cheese, cumin, salt, and garlic to the food processor and pulse until smooth. Add the dried jalapeño flakes and pulse a while longer to combine.

4. Preheat the oven to 350oF and grease a 9-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Transfer the dip to the pan, top with cheese, and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with bacon, and enjoy!

3. Jalapeño Guacamole

Even though guacamole isn't a traditionally spicy food, this version kicks things up a notch with the addition of dried jalapeño flakes. You can serve it as a side to your meals or slather it on a tortilla for Taco Tuesday. Either way, it's guaranteed to wow your palate.

Ingredients:

  • 1/3 cup dried jalapeño peppers
  • 1 avocado, peeled and pitted
  • 2 tsp cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tsp sour cream
  • 1 tsp lime juice (optional)
  • Salt, to taste

Directions:

1. Add the jalapeño peppers and 2/3 cup of warm water to a bowl and soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, drain and squeeze gently to remove excess liquid. Transfer to a food processor.

2. Add the remaining ingredients and pulse until smooth and creamy. Serve immediately.

4. Jalapeño Chicken Enchiladas

Soaked in a delicious jalapeño-tomato sauce, these chicken enchiladas are a spicy dream come true. They're also blanketed with cheese for some extra creaminess.

Ingredients:

Directions:

1. Add the chicken bits and 6 cups of warm water to a pot and soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, drain and squeeze gently to remove excess liquid. Set aside.

2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and onions and sauté for 5 minutes. Stir in the chili powder and oregano and cook for another 2 minutes. Add the tomato sauce, salsa, and dried jalapeño flakes, and stir well. Nestle the chicken bits into the sauce, cover, and cook for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked.

3. Warm the tortillas in the microwave to make them pliable. Remove the chicken from the sauce and transfer it to a bowl. Add 2 cups of the sauce and 1/2 cup of cheese to the bowl.

4. Divide the chicken mixture among the tortillas, roll them tightly and place them in a greased 13x9-inch baking dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the tortillas and top with the remaining cheese.

5. Bake the enchiladas for 25 minutes in a preheated oven at 350oF. Remove from the oven, top with avocado and sour cream, and serve.

5. Jalapeño Mac & Cheese

Boasting a jalapeño-infused roux, this recipe is perfect for when you want to spice things up a bit but still satisfy your comfort food cravings. The heavy cream-milk-and-cheese combo also makes the dish extra creamy and comforting.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 tbsp dried jalapeño peppers
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups Cheddar cheese, grated
  • 1/2 tsp cumin (optional)
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Add the jalapeños and 1/4 cup of warm water to a cup and soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, drain and squeeze gently to remove excess liquid. Set aside.

2. Cook the pasta according to the package's instructions, drain and set aside.

3. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the jalapeños and sauté for 5 minutes. Whisk in the flour and cook for another 5 minutes. Stir the roux often to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan.

4. Pour in the milk and heavy cream and stir to combine. Add the cheese one cup at a time and cook for another 10 minutes. The sauce will thicken, so make sure you stir often.

5. Once ready, pour the sauce into the pasta pot and stir well to combine. Serve immediately.

Would you cook with our dried  jalapeño peppers? Let us know your favorite recipes in the comment section down below!

References:

  1. https://kathrynskitchenblog.com/jalapeno-cheddar-cornbread-muffins/#recipe
  2. https://www.cookinglight.com/recipes/jalapeno-popper-bean-dip
  3. https://www.chilipeppermadness.com/chili-pepper-recipes/guacamole/extra-creamy-roasted-jalapeno-guacamole/
  4. https://www.thewickednoodle.com/chicken-enchiladas-roasted-jalapenos/#mv-creation-228-jtr
  5. https://www.modernhoney.com/creamy-jalapeno-macaroni-and-cheese/
7 Pumpkin Recipes to Ring in the Fall Season

7 Pumpkin Recipes to Ring in the Fall Season

pumpkin recipes
Photo by EKATERINA BOLOVTSOVA from Pexels

In case it's not clear by now, fall is synonymous with pumpkins(1). Come autumn, the colorful gourd makes its way into our kitchens and infuses everything we eat (or drink) with its sweet, earthy flavor - be it soups, pies, or lattes. So, to usher in the new season and its cozy vibes, we rounded up seven delicious pumpkin recipes that'll warm you up from the inside out and make you forget all about summer (and its juicy produce).

1. Red Pepper & Pumpkin Soup

Instead of your typical pumpkin-only soup, this recipe adds sauteed red pepper to the mix, making the dish all the more appropriate for chilly fall nights. Serve it with a slice of toasted sourdough bread for maximum cozy vibes.

Ingredients:

Directions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the red pepper, garlic, paprika, and pumpkin and sauté for 5 minutes until the pumpkin turns soft.

2. Remove the pan from the heat and transfer the pumpkin-red pepper mixture to a food processor. Start blitzing on low while adding the heavy cream and vegetable stock half a cup at a time. Blitz the mixture until all the pumpkin and peppers are pureed. If the soup is too thick for you, add more stock or heavy cream (one tablespoon at a time).

3. Return the soup to the pan and cook for another 3 minutes over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately.

2. Cheddar Pumpkin Grilled Cheese

Pumpkin isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think of grilled cheese. But this autumnal take on the classic proves that the gourd: a) pairs excellent with cheddar and b) can be a kick in the palette throughout fall.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pumpkin
  • 1/3 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 8 slices of sourdough bread
  • 8 tsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 smoked paprika
  • 2 tbsp dried chives
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Add the chives and 4 tablespoons of warm water to a cup and soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, drain the water using a small sieve, separating the chives from the water.

2. Transfer to a large bowl and add all the remaining ingredients. Toss to combine. Set aside.

3. Preheat the oven to 450oF. Meanwhile, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread one teaspoon of butter on four bread slices, lay them with the butter side facing down, and divide the pumpkin mixture between them.

4. Butter the remaining bread slices and top with the butter side up.

5. Bake the grilled cheese for 6 minutes, flip, and bake for another 6 minutes until golden brown. Serve immediately.

3. Pumpkin Sausage Pizza

Adding pumpkin to your pizza may be well beyond your comfort zone. But this recipe proves the gourd deserves a place on your dough - especially if it's paired with sausage and roasted in advance. If you want to push your pizza boundaries, even more, you could also experiment with the sauce and try something new.

Ingredients:

  • 16 ounces of ready-made pizza dough
  • 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1 3/4 cups pumpkin, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup textured soy protein (TSP) sausage bits
  • 2/3 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 3 tbsp olive oil (plus one for brushing the dough0
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Add the sausage bits and 2 cups of warm water to a bowl and soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, strain the water with a sieve and slightly squeeze the sausage to remove excess liquid. Set aside.

2. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 375oF, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, toss the pumpkin with the olive oil and salt, and roast for 15 minutes until lightly browned. Remove from the oven and set aside.

3. Flour a surface and roll out the pizza dough until you form a 12-inch circle. Then, brush the dough with the remaining olive oil.

4. Pour the sauce on top and spread it across with the back of a spoon.

5. Season with thyme and top with the shredded cheese, pumpkin, and sausage bits.

6. Bake for 15 minutes or until the dough turns golden brown.

4. Pumpkin Carbonara

It's a mystery why pumpkin isn't such a popular choice for pasta dishes since the gourd (especially when pureed) can make your creations creamy AF. Still, it's never too late to experiment with this unique pasta ingredient and give your spaghetti the creaminess they deserve.

Ingredients:

Directions:

1. Add the bacon bits and 1 cup of warm water to a bowl and soak for 15 minutes. Drain the bacon with a sieve and lightly squeeze to remove excess liquid. Set aside.

2. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions, making sure you reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

3. Heat the olive oil and sauté the bacon until slightly browned in a small skillet. Remove from the heat and set aside.

4. Mix the pumpkin puree, egg yolks, and cheese in a bowl, and season with salt and pepper.

5. Then, toss the pasta with the pumpkin mixture, adding the reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce. Stir in the bacon and serve immediately.

5. Pumpkin Chicken Chili

Chicken chili is in a league of its own. But adding a hint of pumpkin to the mix can beef up the dish even more and make it perfect for chilly fall nights. This version also melts in a bit of cream cheese for extra richness.

Ingredients:

Directions:

1. Add the chicken and bell peppers to a bowl with 5 cups of warm water and soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, drain the water with a sieve and slightly squeeze the foods to remove excess water. Set aside.

2. Pour the olive oil into a pot and heat over medium heat. Add the chicken-bell pepper mixture, the onion, and the garlic and sauté for 5 minutes.

3. Add the broth, pumpkin, tomato sauce, jalapeño peppers, and seasonings. Cover with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 20 minutes.

4. Add the cream cheese and stir until it's melted. Let cool for a while and serve.

6. Pumpkin Spice Latte

If there's one drink that epitomizes fall, it's the famous pumpkin spice latte (PSL). The seasonal brew combines the warm flavors of nutmeg, cinnamon, allspice, and cloves with pumpkin's earthy notes and coffee's pungent taste. On occasion, you can top it with whipped cream and maple syrup. Talk about next-level indulgence!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup oat milk
  • 1/2 cup brewed coffee
  • 2 tbsp pumpkin puree
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp allspice
  • 1/4 tsp cloves
  • Whipped cream, for topping (optional)

Directions:

1. Pour the milk into a small pot and warm over low heat until it's almost simmering. Note that it shouldn't reach a boiling point.

2. Pour the coffee into a mason jar and add the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and spices. Mix well to combine.

3. Forth the warm milk until foamy with a frother and pour it into the coffee jar.

4. (Optional) Top with whipped cream and a pinch of cinnamon.

7. Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Filling

Give your cinnamon rolls an autumnal makeover by adding not one, but two favorite fall mainstays, i.e., pumpkin & apple. Topped with vanilla frosting, the dessert is the tastiest way to start your chilly weekend mornings.

Ingredients:

For the pumpkin cinnamon roll dough

  • 2 tsp active dry yeast
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 egg

For the apple filling

  • 1 1/2 cups freeze dried apples
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

1. First, make the apple filling. Add the apples to a bowl with 3 cups of warm water and soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, drain the water and squeeze gently to remove excess liquid. Transfer to a skillet and add the remaining apple filling ingredients. Turn the heat on to medium-low and cook until the apple is fork-tender. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool and thicken.

2. Then, make the pumpkin cinnamon roll dough. Warm the milk and add to a bowl along with the maple syrup. Stir in the yeast, whisk well, and leave to sit for 10 minutes until frothy.

3. Mix flour, cinnamon, and salt in another bowl.

4. Add the sugar and butter to a third bowl and stir until combined. Stir in the yeast mixture and mix vigorously (perhaps on a stand mixer).

5. Add the egg and pumpkin puree and continue mixing.

6. Slowly spoon in the flour mixture and work the dough for 5 minutes until you form a pliable dough.

7. Transfer the dough to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap and let it rest for 2 hours.

8. Flour a work surface and roll the dough into a large rectangle (12 x 18 inches). Brush the dough with melted butter and spread the apple filling evenly from side to side.

9. Roll the dough inwardly and cut lengthwise into 2-inch slices. Transfer them to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet with the swirl side up and bake in a preheated oven (350oF) for 25 minutes. Top with vanilla frosting, and enjoy!

Which are your favorite pumpkin recipes? Let us know in the comments down below!

References:

  1. https://secondharvestetn.org/blog-post/why-fall-is-pumpkin-season-and-why-were-ok-with-it/
  2. https://www.archanaskitchen.com/roasted-red-pepper-and-pumpkin-soup-recipe
  3. https://dizzybusyandhungry.com/cheddar-pumpkin-grilled-cheese-sandwiches/
  4. http://www.italianfoodforever.com/2013/10/pumpkin-sausage-sage-pizza-paired-with-moretti-beer/#mv-creation-916-jtr
  5. https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/a33984426/pumpkin-carbonara-recipe/
  6. https://www.staysnatched.com/pumpkin-chicken-chili/
  7. https://www.ambitiouskitchen.com/homemade-pumpkin-spice-latte/
  8. https://twocupsflour.com/apple-pie-pumpkin-cinnamon-rolls/
5 Lunch Recipes to Enjoy With the Fam on “Take Your Parents to Lunch” Day

5 Lunch Recipes to Enjoy With the Fam on “Take Your Parents to Lunch” Day

lunch recipes
Photo by Ella Olsson from Pexels

Let's be honest: Οnce they reach a certain age, teenagers believe that spending time with their parents is boring and uncool. However, experts(1) agree that family group activities, such as shared meals, benefit kids and adults by strengthening their bond and developing a deeper connection.

And that's why National "Take Your Parents to Lunch" Day(2) is becoming more popular each year. The annual holiday poses an excellent opportunity for parents and kids to bond over lunch, whether at the school cafeteria or a nearby park (picnic, anyone?).

So, to help you join the celebrations and create unique memories with your kid, we rounded up five easy lunch recipes that'll make this year's National “Take Your Parents to Lunch” Day all the more precious.

What is National "Take Your Parents to Lunch" Day?

Celebrated on October 14th, National "Take Your Parents to Lunch" Day is an annual event where parents share a meal with their kids, usually at the school's cafeteria. However, that doesn't mean you can't take the celebrations elsewhere as a park picnic would also be a great idea.

The purpose of this event is to give parents and children the chance to spend some quality time together - considering both tweens/teens these days often have little (or no) time to engage with their families.

Of course, spending time as a family is just one of the perks, as parents can also get a glimpse of their children's school lives and learn more about them. For example, they can learn about their favorite foods and those that never touch their plates.

5 Easy Lunch Recipes for National “Take Your Parents to Lunch” Day

1. BBQ Chicken Burrito

When it comes to making a meal that no kid (or grown-up) can resist, burritos are a no-brainer. This easy version calls for BBQ-flavored chicken and cheese, a combo guaranteed to wow everyone's palate. Don't be afraid to add cilantro to the mix. Picky eaters will hardly notice it in this medley of flavors.

Ingredients:

Directions:

1. Add the chicken, onion, and 2 cups of warm water to a bowl and soak for 15 minutes. Drain water and squeeze gently to remove excess water. Set aside.

2. Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat and sauté the chicken-onion mixture for 5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl, add the BBQ sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to combine.

2. Microwave the tortillas to make them pliable and divide the mixture between them equally. Top with cheese and cilantro and roll them up burrito-style.

3. Wrap in foil and bake for 10 minutes in a preheated oven at 350oF so that the cheese melts. Remove from the oven and pack for lunch.

2. Corn & Tomato Pasta Salad

If you don't have enough time to spend in the kitchen, then salad is the way to go. But, we're not talking about the bland, all-green piles of lettuce. This lunch recipe features corn, tomato, and pasta. The best part is that it also travels well. So, it's perfect for a picnic (if you plan on skipping the school's cafeteria).

Ingredients:

  • 1 package of uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup dried corn
  • 1 tsp dried jalapeno peppers (optional)
  • 1/3 cup Feta cheese or queso fresco, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt & pepper

Directions:

1. Add the corn and 1 cup of warm water to a bowl and soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, drain, and squeeze gently to remove excess liquid. Set aside.

2. Cook the pasta according to the package's instructions. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water. Transfer to a large bowl.

3. Add the remaining ingredients and toss to combine. Cover with a tight lid or plastic wrap and pack for lunch.

3. Tortellini Tomato Soup

Soup may not be the perfect candidate for your kiddo's lunchbox. But if the weather is cold (which will be since it's October), soup is a great way to warm up from the inside out. The added pasta also makes the dish less watery. So, there's little chance of spilling it, anyway.

Ingredients:

  • One package of cheese tortellini
  • 1 cup tomato basil soup mix
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package's instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.

2. Add the milk to a pot and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the tomato soup mix and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

3. Stir in the pasta and parmesan cheese and season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Transfer to insulated bowls to keep the soup warm and pack for lunch.

4. Caramelized Sausage & Onion Baguette Sandwich

A step-up from the usual ham-and-cheese sandwich, this lunch recipe will appeal to the kid (and parent) with an adventurous palate. The sandwich is also smeared with mustard and stuffed with lettuce for a flavorful crunch.

Ingredients:

Directions:

1. Add the sausage and 2 cups of warm water to a bowl and soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, drain and squeeze gently to remove excess liquid. Set aside.

2. Heat the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the sausage, onion, and balsamic vinegar to the pan and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 10 minutes, frequently stirring, until most of the liquid has reduced to a thick sauce. Remove from the heat and set aside.

3. Slice the baguette down the middle and spread the mustard on one side. Spoon the sausage-onion mixture, top with the lettuce, and season with salt (if needed). Wrap in foil and pack for lunch.

5. Carrot Cake Blondies

No lunch is complete without dessert. So, why not round out your meal with this easy blondie recipe? Featuring almost a cupful of carrot, the treat is as healthy as it is delicious. For a wow-worthy presentation, serve it with a scoop of cream cheese frosting on top and a teaspoon of chopped nuts.

Ingredients:

  • 3/4 cups unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 1/4 cups brown sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup dried carrots
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2/3 cup chopped nuts of your choice

Directions:

1. Add the carrots and 1 cup of warm water to a bowl and soak for 15 minutes. Once hydrated, drain, and squeeze gently to remove excess liquid. Set aside.

2. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350oF. Line an 8x8 baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.

3. Add the butter and sugar to a bowl and whisk until smooth. Stir in the carrots, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk to combine.

4. Stir in the flour, salt, cinnamon, and nuts and mix well to combine.

5. Transfer the batter to the baking pan and bake for 20-23 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the blondie comes out clean. Remove from the oven, let cool completely, top with cream cheese frosting, and pack for lunch.

Which lunch recipes would you like to try for "Take Your Parents to Lunch" Day? Let us know in the comments down below!

References:

  1. https://www.dhs.gov/employee-resources/blog/2020/08/25/benefits-family-meals
  2. https://www.nationaldaystoday.com/national-take-your-parents-to-lunch-day/
  3. https://www.sixsistersstuff.com/recipe/bbq-chicken-burritos/#wprm-recipe-container-96823
  4. https://reciperunner.com/tomato-corn-pasta-salad/
  5. https://www.galonamission.com/one-pot-creamy-tomato-tortellini-soup/#wprm-recipe-container-7782
  6. https://www.biffenskitchen.com/recipes/sausage-caramelised-onion-baguette/
The Power of Gratitude: 7 Ways to Become More Grateful

The Power of Gratitude: 7 Ways to Become More Grateful

gratitude
Photo by George Dolgikh from Pexels

Do you ever take time to reflect on the positive in your life? Or do the negatives affect your outlook on life?

World Gratitude Day is September 21. This day is an opportunity to appreciate your friends, colleagues, and everything you are grateful for. Although you should practice gratitude daily, you may sometimes feel anxious, upset, or even depressed due to life's disappointments.  The good news is that consistently practicing gratitude counteracts negative emotions.

Recognizing your blessings, particularly amid adversity, strengthens your mental toughness. We all have the capacity and chance to practice thankfulness. Instead of moaning about what you don't have, appreciate all you have for a few seconds. 

Why Should You Practice Gratitude Every Day

Gratitude enhances the quality of your sleep

People who are grateful sleep better. Starting today, take 15 minutes to write or reflect on what you're grateful for before you sleep. According to research, taking a few minutes before falling asleep to reflect on what you're grateful for gives you better and longer sleep.

Gratitude enhances physical health

A grateful person is more likely to be motivated to prioritize self-care habits such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and getting regular health checkups. Therefore, they are healthier and live longer than people who are pessimistic about life.

Being grateful boosts self-esteem.

Negative emotions, such as anger and jealousy, contribute to low self-esteem. Focusing on the positive parts of your life enhances your self-esteem and productivity levels. A grateful life saves you from comparing yourself to others who seem to be doing better than you. Instead, you will appreciate the journey and trust that your path will lead to success and happiness.

Gratitude is good for your mental health.

Expressing gratitude during stressful or challenging times makes you mentally strong. Rather than being preoccupied with troubles, gratitude enables you to concentrate on the positive aspects of your life.

Gratitude fosters relationships.

Recognizing people's contributions to your life is the key to stronger bonds. A polite person who often expresses their gratitude to their friends and family gets to have stronger connections and happier relationships. Get the thank you notepads today and write to your friends and coworkers.

Gratitude helps to minimize negative emotions.

Thankfulness increases happiness and decreases despair and is one of the most basic yet powerful strategies to raise your mood. When you are grateful for your own life, you experience less aggression, resentment, or envy,  which can affect your life and how you relate with others. Grateful people are more inclined to be more emphatic to others than reactive, even when others give them unfavorable feedback. Allowing ungratefulness in your life makes you more sensitive to the needs of others and has less desire to pursue vengeance. 

7 Ways to Practice Gratitude

1. Practice daily gratitude mindfulness.

Take a few minutes every day in the morning or evening to count your blessings. Learn to appreciate that you get to go to work instead of lamenting about the traffic or early mornings. In the evening, think about five things that happened on the day you are grateful for. 

2. Say "thank you" frequently.

Write a thank you note or message to express gratitude to a few people daily. Expressing your feelings on paper might assist you in appreciating the good in your life. Always say thank you whenever your friend, family, or a stranger helps you with a task. The two magic words will also make the other person happy. 

3. Maintain a gratitude journal.

Have you ever tried gratitude journaling? It is similar to a gratitude mindfulness, except you write down what you are grateful for. Spend a few minutes to write three to five things you are thankful for every day in a gratitude journal. If this is too much for you, begin journaling once a week. To make the habit stick, practice gratitude mindfulness on days when you don't write in your diary.

4. Go on a gratitude walk.

Do you enjoy going for walks? It is, after all, another opportunity for you to practice thankfulness. It is similar to a mindful stroll in which you focus on the good aspects of your surroundings. Pay attention to the pleasant and lovely things around you - such as flowers, birds, or buildings - you may see as you walk. Smile and say hi to anybody you see in your area. Feel grateful for their presence or their compassion.

5. Keep a gratitude jar.

Get a colorful jar and decorate it to your preference. Every day drops a note of what you are grateful for that day. You can do that for a month or a year and then review at the end of the period. Keep writing what comes to your mind. When you need to cheer yourself up or are feeling demotivated, you can look at the jar and know that the good is more than the bad. 

6. Make a gratitude inventory.

An inventory sounds similar to having a gratefulness jar. However, an inventory is a list of things you are grateful for about yourself, others, or what you have. You will create the inventory once,  unlike the jar where you must keep writing until the jar is full. List down the positive counters in your life, strengths, and the people you are happy to meet. You can also write what you have. To make it organized, create categories and write anything that comes to mind under each category

7. Keep smiling

Whenever you feel a negative thought coming in, think of the person or thing you're thankful for, and then smile. It takes less effort to smile than to frown. And it's also good for your well-being and can enhance your mood. 

Do you want to practice gratitude every day? Gratitude can change your life and improve your mental, emotional, and physical health. The benefits of gratitude are so significant that you'll want to incorporate it into your life all year, not just during World Gratitude Day.

Try these simple tips and see your life getting better

References

  1. https://www.mindful.org/an-introduction-to-mindful-gratitude/
  2. https://www.forbes.com/sites/womensmedia/2016/07/08/8-ways-to-have-more-gratitude-every-day/?sh=555255321d54
  3. https://www.lifehack.org/articles/communication/40-simple-ways-practice-gratitude.html
  4. https://www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2021/12/01/14-simple-ways-to-practice-gratitude-in-your-everyday-professional-life/?sh=28388092521d
3 Pizza Recipes for National Pepperoni Pizza Day

3 Pizza Recipes for National Pepperoni Pizza Day

pizza recipes
Photo by Sydney Troxell from Pexels

September 20 is National Pepperoni Pizza day. It’s that time of the year again when you can get super excited about cheesy, saucy, mouthwatering pepperoni pizza. You may wonder what could be so special about this seemingly ordinary Tuesday in September. Let me tell you. Nothing is more American than pepperoni pizza. The combination of cheese, tomato sauce, and pepperoni is genuinely remarkable.

Looking for something a little different than your typical pepperoni pizza? We’ve got you covered. Here are 3 hearty pizza recipes for you if you want to make your version of hot pepperoni pizza at home. But first, there’s a slight twist: the toppings.

How to Make Pepperoni Pizza with Fruit and Vegetable Toppings

Ditch the typical pizza toppings that contain processed foods and give a chance to healthy veggies and fruits to wow you with their colors and flavors. Wondering where to get fruits and veggies that may not be in season? Don’t Worry, because we offer the best quality freeze dried fruits and veggies and guarantee availability even if they are out of season. Rehydrate the fruits and vegetables, dry them thoroughly before layering on the pizza, chill them first, and add them to the pizza just before serving.

Vegetable pizza toppings

Fruits pizza toppings

Combo 1
Combo 2
Others

1. Homemade Pepperoni Pizza

Try this hearty pepperoni pizza recipe with your favorite toppings. It will be ready in less than 1 hour.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 8 oz. ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 cup warm water
  • ¼ cup canola oil
  • Salt to taste
  • 3 cups flour
  • ½ cup dried onion
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 3 teaspoons dried oregano
  • ½ tablespoon dried basil
  • ½ cup organic dried green pepper
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 6 ounces of your favorite pepperoni

Directions

  1. Mix the sugar and yeast in water in a mixing bowl, then set aside for about 4 minutes. Pour in the oil and salt. Then stir in 1 cup of flour at a time. Combine to form a dough. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 3 minutes until elastic.
  2. Put the dough in a greased bowl and turn until greased on all surfaces. Cover and place in a warm for about 40 minutes to double in size.
  3. Meanwhile, sautée the beef and onion over medium heat until the steak is cooked and forms into crumbles; drain.
  4. Prepare a 12-inch pizza pan
  5. Punch down the dough and split it in half. Place one-half of the dough in the pizza pan. 
  6. Spread the pepperoni and mozzarella over the crust.  Add the toppings, then bake at 400°F for about half an hour or until the crust is gently browned.

2. Easy Fruit Pizza

This fruity pizza is bound to be a hit with the whole family. It’s the real meaning of having your cake and eating it: sweet but healthy.

Ingredients

Pizza Crust
  • 5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup softened butter 
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon salt
For frosting
  • 16 oz. cream cheese
  • 2 cups powdered sugar

Directions

Pizza Crust Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  2. Combine the sugar and butter. Beat in eggs and vanilla until well combined. Add all the dry ingredients and combine to form a dough.  Put the dough into a large basin and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill for 1 hour.
  3. Use a rolling pin to make a large circle. Then, place on a pizza pan or prepared stone sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Using your hands, press the dough evenly on the pizza pan.
  4. Bake for 15 minutes or until the edges and top start to brown. Set aside to cool before adding the topping.
Frosting Instructions
  1. Mix cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. If you want a sweeter frosting, you can add more powdered sugar.
  2. Spread on a cooled sugar cookie crust.
For Fruit Toppings

Use freeze dried strawberries, raspberries, peaches dices, blueberries, and kiwi Fruit. Add the fruits just before serving, and then sprinkle with coconut flakes. Decorate to your liking.

3. Veggie Pepperoni pizza

Try this mouthwatering veggie pizza at home. It combines the goodness of dried spinach, freeze dried bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and onion.

Ingredients

  • 1 batch of whole wheat pizza dough
  • 1 cup pizza sauce
  • 2 cups dried spinach
  • 2 to 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup artichoke, cubed
  • ½ cup freeze dried red bell peppers
  • ½ cup red onion, chopped into thin wedges
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup pitted olives, halved
  • ½ cup sliced almonds (optional)

To garnish: basil leaves, red bell pepper, grated parmesan cheese

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 500°F. Place a rack in the upper second rack from the oven and baking steel or stone on the highest rack of the oven. Spread the pizza sauce on both crusts, leaving 1 inch of the borders uncovered. 
  2. Spread spinach over the sauce. Cover with cheese. Then top with the tomatoes, bell pepper, and other toppings over the pizza
  3. Bake the pizza crust on the top tack for about 12 minutes until the crust is golden. Keep monitoring if you are using baking steel or stone.

September is the month of all things delicious and cheesy. Enjoy any of these pizza recipes with friends and family on National Pepperoni Pizza Day. Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

References

  1. https://cookieandkate.com/veggie-pizza-recipe/
  2. https://www.favfamilyrecipes.com/easy-fruit-pizza/
  3. https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/homemade-pizza/