Fall Nourish Bowl

Warm up with this cozy Fall Nourish Bowl — packed with roasted veggies, quinoa, and creamy hummus for the ultimate autumn comfort meal. Nutritious, hearty, and full of seasonal flavor!
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Air Fryer Carrot Fries

Crispy, healthy, and kid-approved! Air fryer carrot fries are the perfect guilt-free snack packed with nutrients and flavor. Discover why they’re a must-try today!
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Chicken Teriyaki Bowl

Enjoy a healthy, balanced Chicken Teriyaki Bowl packed with protein, veggies, and whole grains. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish features homemade teriyaki sauce, brown rice, and fresh vegetables for a flavorful, nutrient-dense meal your family will love.

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Lentil Barley Soup

Discover a fresh take on hearty veggie barley soup! Packed with vibrant, nutrient-rich vegetables, this homemade version brings comfort and flavor without the heaviness. Perfect for cozy days or when you’re craving a healthy, feel-good meal.
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Rainbow Tofu Bowl

This delicious Rainbow Tofu Bowl is the latest buzz in our household.  Packed with nutrient-rich veggies and protein-packed tofu and quinoa, this dish is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Whip it up in no time for a nourishing and satisfying meal that celebrates the beauty of nature’s bounty.
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Leek, Potato and Pea Soup

Indulge in the cozy comfort of a timeless favorite with this Leek, Potato, and Pea Soup. Let each spoonful transport you to a world of warmth and flavor. Embrace simplicity and nourishment in every bowl.
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Palak Dal

Hearty and wholesome Dal Palak (Spinach Dal), lightly spiced, makes a great comforting meal and is a seasonal favorite. It’s also a classic source of plant-based proteins, especially in the diets of vegetarians and vegans.

Discover the irresistible comfort and nutritional richness of Palak Dal, a beloved staple in Indian cuisine. Packed with protein-rich split urad dal and nutrient-dense spinach, this dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also evokes cherished childhood memories and brings families together.

Let’s dive into the delicious world of Palak Dal.  This is a dish that’s not just about flavor; it’s about the warmth of home and the nostalgia of childhood. If you grew up in an Indian household, chances are Palak Dal made an appearance on your dining table.  Each bite serving up a hearty dose of comfort and tradition with every spoonful.

Palak Dal isn’t just a dish; it’s a connection to your roots, a taste of home no matter where you are. It’s the dish your mom made when you were feeling under the weather, the dish that always brought the family together around the dinner table.  Picture this: creamy split urad dal mingling with vibrant green spinach, all cooked up with a blend of spices that make your taste buds dance. This dish has been warming bellies and bringing smiles for generations, and it’s not hard to see why.

Now, let’s break it down. First up, we’ve got split urad dal. This stuff is like nature’s protein powerhouse, perfect for all you vegetarians and vegans out there. It’s got the goods to help your muscles repair and grow, and it’s great for keeping your energy levels steady throughout the day.

But wait, there’s more! Urad dal is also packing some serious fiber, which means it’s doing wonders for your digestion and keeping you feeling full and satisfied. Plus, it’s got a low glycemic index, so it’s not messing with your blood sugar levels like some other foods might.

Spinach, or Palak is the other main ingredient.  It’s a nutrient-packed superhero in its own right. Loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, and iron, spinach is full of antioxidants and phytonutrients to strengthen your body.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro in the kitchen or a newbie looking to expand your culinary horizons, Palak Dal is a dish that’s sure to win you over. So the next time you’re feeling hungry, why not give it a try? Your taste buds and your body will thank you for it!

 

Avocado Toast (5 Easy Recipes!)

Indulge in the healthful and versatile world of avocado toast with our five tantalizing recipes! From spicy chaat masala to classic Caprese, discover a symphony of flavors while exploring the nutritious benefits of creamy avocados.

Avocado toast has surged in popularity not only for its delectable taste but also for its array of health benefits and adaptability. Bursting with nutrients, fiber, and healthy fats, avocados offer a plethora of advantages for both your palate and your well-being. Let’s delve into five tantalizing avocado toast recipes that exemplify its versatility and goodness.

1. Chaat Masala with Red Chili Flakes

Experience a fusion of flavors with the aromatic essence of chaat masala paired with the spicy kick of red chili flakes. This combination adds depth and zest to the creamy avocado base.

2. Shredded Hard-Boiled Egg

Elevate your avocado toast with the addition of shredded hard-boiled egg, offering a protein-packed boost to your morning routine or midday snack.

3. Caprese Avocado Toast

Indulge in the classic Italian flavors of Caprese salad atop your avocado toast. Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves complement the creamy avocado, creating a symphony of taste and texture.

4. Hard-Boiled Egg with Everything Bagel Seasoning

Savor the irresistible crunch and savory taste of everything bagel seasoning combined with the richness of sliced hard-boiled egg. This recipe promises a delightful medley of flavors with every bite.

5. Pesto Pistachio Avocado Toast

Treat your taste buds to the vibrant combination of aromatic pesto, crunchy pistachios, and creamy avocado. This savory-sweet ensemble offers a delightful sensory experience that will leave you craving more.

Incorporating avocado toast into your culinary repertoire not only delights the palate but also nourishes the body with essential nutrients. Whether you opt for a traditional approach or embark on a culinary adventure with innovative toppings, avocado toast proves to be a versatile and healthful dish suitable for any occasion. So, seize the opportunity to explore the endless possibilities of avocado toast and relish in its delectable goodness!

Rustic Veggie Bake

Discover the magic of Rustic Veggie Bake – where vibrant flavors, aromatic herbs, and fresh veggies collide. Prepare it ahead for intensified, mouthwatering goodness.
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Easy Weeknight Meals

Discover quick and delicious weeknight meal ideas perfect for busy evenings with school and activities in full swing.  Get inspired and simplify your family dinners tonight!
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Cauliflower Steak with Hummus Dressing

These Cauliflower Steaks with Hummus Dressing are simply seasoned with a balsamic marinade and making them absolutely delicious.  Tender and packed with flavor, the pomegranates add a but of crunch, the hummus adds a bit of tang.  It makes the perfect vegetarian meal or side dish.
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Roasted Vegetables Barley Bowl

A delicious and nutritious Roasted Vegetable Barley Bowl filled with barley, arugula, hummus, a variety of veggies including asparagus and blistered tomatoes, all topped with a sprinkle of chili flakes for just a little heat.  It’s perfect for a weeknight meal.
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Roasted Tomato Soup

A simple classic, this slow Roasted Tomato Soup is rich, creamy, and comforting.  Made with roasted fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, and fresh basil, this tomato soup is full of flavor.  Get your grilled cheese ready because this recipe will have you praying for a rainy day and savoring every element of the season.
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Spinach, Pear, and Pomegranate Salad

This Spinach, Pear, and Pomegranate Salad is light, hearty, delicious, loaded with feta and candied pecans, and exceptionally healthy.
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Roasted Fennel and Potato Soup

A delicious and creamy soup that is hearty and pure comfort food during the cold winter months.
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Carrot Top Pesto

Simple, easy, earthy, and sustainable, this delicious Carrot Top Pesto is a versatile dish that can be used as a sauce, dip, or a topping.
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Rainbow Farro Salad

A healthy vegetarian rainbow salad filled with red cabbage, roasted veggies, herbs, feta cheese, chickpeas, and farro.
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Instant Pot Kali Dal

**Original blog posted March 2020.  Updated March 2022**
Kali dal is a very popular Punjabi dish and one of those comfort food meals that my husband has grown up with.  It has also become one of Sanaya’s favorite comfort foods too so of course I had to find a way to perfect this recipe for both of them.  I would say this recipe rotates in our house at least every 2 weeks.

I love it for its nutritional content, loaded with protein, fiber and low in carbs and calories.  With all the rainy days we’ve had recently, this is one recipe I can’t pass up.  An easy, one-pot meal, this goes great with naan or rice.

Yep, I put a ton of jalapeños as a garnish.  Traditionally, it’s cilantro. But, it actually tasted good with the extra jalapeños on top!
A while back, we had a potluck and playdate with my friend Janani and her family.  I don’t remember what I made, but I do remember that both my husband and I fought for the last bite of her dal.  It was A-MA-ZING!  It had a burst of flavor to it that we were both impressed and he actually said it was one of the best dals he has had in his life…. that’s huge coming from a Punjabi!

Most recipes of this specific dal have a basic of three spices, and I’ve found pretty simple in flavor.  Works great for many but Janani’s recipe just had this burst of flavor, you didn’t want to stop eating it.

I begged her for her recipe, tried making it and failed.  I tried a few more times to the point my hubby was actually sick of seeing dal…….oops.  So I went to Janani’s house, had her tell me exactly what to do while I made it with her watching over me.  I’ve been using her recipe ever since, however, I did make a few changes to it.  I know, I know, why?  I changed a little of the technique on which ingredients she cooks in what order, and changed the ratio on some of the basic spices but they are all there.  The changed version is what I have listed below but if you’re interested in her original version, message me and I will send it to you.

When I talked to Janani about her recipe, that’s when I figured out it’s the spices and the amount of tomatoes that she uses which give the dal its integrity in flavor.  You really need to try out this recipe.  It’s so delicious!
If you don’t have an instant pot, follow the same instructions for a slow cooker and set slow cooker time for 8 hours.

Here are the tools I used for this recipe:

 

Chickpea Chocolate Chip Cookies

Grain-free, gluten-free, and vegan, these chickpea chocolate chip cookies are out of this world.  Pillowy soft, fluffy, sweet, melt in your mouth, chunky chocolate chip cookies.  Continue reading “Chickpea Chocolate Chip Cookies”

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding

Thick and creamy chia pudding layered with shredded coconut, mango chunks, and roasted pistachios.  The fresh tropical flavors for a healthy breakfast will become your favorite way to start the day!
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Teriyaki Tofu Noodle Bowl

Crispy, sweet, and salty bites of tofu paired with sauteed bright broccoli on a bed of rice noodles.  It can’t get any better than this.  Filled with protein, this Teriyaki Tofu Noodle Bowl is perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch prep.
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Almond Butter Muffins

These healthy almond butter muffins are the perfect tasty treat.  They are perfect to add in the lunchbox for a snack or dessert, or even to eat for breakfast.
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Tandoori Cauliflower Tacos

These tandoori cauliflower tacos are marinated in a vibrant tandoori yogurt sauce and burst with flavor in each bite.  Perfect for lunch or dinner, these meatless tacos are easy to make and filling.  Continue reading “Tandoori Cauliflower Tacos”

Dragon Fruit Smoothie Bowl

This Dragon fruit Smoothie Bowl is a beautiful, quick, and easy tropical breakfast recipe!  Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya, is nutrient dense food packed with antioxidants, low calories making it a great option for vegan and paleo diets.  Made with just 3 ingredients, dragon fruit, mango, and coconut water, add your favorite toppings and enjoy!
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Creamy White Bean Soup with Spinach

This Creamy Vegan White Bean Soup is a healthy one-pot soup that will fill you up, give you energy, and is full of flavor!
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Haldi Doodh (Golden Milk)

Growing up in an Indian household meant turning to natural and food remedies for minor ailments.  If you had a tummy ache, Mom made us eat carom seeds or even cumin seeds.  If we had a cold sore in the mouth, she would make us keep a clove on the sore for a few hours.  There are so many more remedies that my mom and grandmother used but the one I remember and is most popular these days is turmeric.

As soon the cold weather set in or the first cough or sneeze of the season was heard, my mother would add turmeric to everything we ate.  She would also make us drink Haldi Doodh or turmeric milk before bed each night.  As a child, I hated this.  As an adult and a mom, it is now my go to.  Over the years, I’ve changed it from the basic turmeric and milk to adding a few new ingredients.  Take a look!

  • Turmeric – the most important ingredient as it has natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.  The powder form is most commonly used though sometimes, I do use the actual root.
  • Black Pepper – has anti-inflammatory properties and improves brain function.  It is most important in this recipe because it activates the curcumin properties in turmeric therefore making the turmeric much more effective.
  • Honey – is full of antioxidants, antibacterial, and antifungul properties.  It’s also an age old remedy used to help sore throats.
  • Cardamom pods – have antioxidant and diuretic properties, and is rich in compounds that help fight against inflammation.
  • Ginger – also has anti-inflammatory properties, helps lower blood sugars, and improve heart disease risk factors.  Ginger also helps fight against bacteria and viruses which can help reduce the risk for infections.
  • Cinnamon – is also loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.  In addition, it helps lower blood sugar levels, and helps fight bacterial and fungal infections.

Basically, every spice added to this recipe has anti-inflammatory or antioxidant properties or both.  I normally use cow’s milk when I make this for the kids but I have made it with almond milk and it has turned out just as good.  I do recommend not to use sweetened milk if you are using a plant based milk as it changes the taste of the final product.

Here’s to wishing a healthy winter and a Happy New Year with my first recipe this year!

Here are the tools I used for this recipe:

 

Beet and Butternut Squash Salad

A perfect combination of fall flavors, this salad is perfect for lunch or as a side for dinner.  Roasted beets and butternut squash are served over peppery arugula, tangy feta cheese, earthy walnuts, sweet pomegranate arils.  Tossed in a maple dressing that is easy to make and shake, this beautiful salad is gluten free and nutrient dense!
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Cranberry Apple Quinoa Salad

This Cranberry Apple Quinoa Salad is filled with bursts of sweetness, texture, and nutrients.  The quinoa soaks up a delicious Maple Dressing and the arugula gives just a hint of a peppery note.  What’s best is it’s great to eat for lunch, or have as a side dish.
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Autumn Squash Soup

Creamy and nourishing, this delicious Autumn Squash Soup is just perfect for a cozy dinner at home during these cold days.  This soup is a spin off of Panera’s Autumn Squash Soup without the extra calories.  But don’t worry!  It still tastes amazing and just like Panera’s.  The best part is that whilst you make this delicious soup, your home is going to smell like fall.  Can it get any better?
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Beet Pesto

Vibrantly pink, nutty, tart, and tasty, this Beet Pesto is absolutely delectable.
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