Author: Clarissa Vanner

Christmas is coming and with it comes family get-togethers and parties. There’s no reason for buying store made appetizers when they’re so easy to make yourself! These finger food ideas can be used for appetizers, party snacks, a light lunch, the first course of a dinner, or just nibblies as you drink some fantastic wine.

We made sure to only include recipes that can be prepared in 30 minutes or less, and yes this includes the prep and cook time. Don’t waste any more time in the kitchen when you could be enjoying the party!

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1. Deviled Egg Bar

Deviled eggs are a crowd pleaser and are perfect for parties. But before you go and make your favorite deviled egg recipe, consider creating a deviled egg bar instead! A deviled egg bar will allow your guests to build their own with toppings they enjoy. Some great topping ideas are assorted meats, herbs, cheeses, pickles, and more! Be sure to set out small plates, forks and napkins to go alongside your display as well.

A deviled egg bar is a fun, interactive way to feed your guests and makes appetizers into a fun activity. Your guests will surely never forget this dream appetizer spread!

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2. Make Your Own Bruschetta Bar

Bruschetta is a classic Italian finger food that never goes out of style and is a foolproof crowd pleaser. Instead of preparing bruschetta yourself, create a bruschetta bar so that your guests can customize the toppings to suit their liking. This also helps alleviate the work for you making this a quick and easy recipe!

Simply dish out the toppings into serving bowls (which can be done ahead of time). Then all the work you have to do is grill the bread, set out the toppings and dig in! Your guests will love how delicious and interactive this appetizer is.

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3. Copycat Big Mac Bites

Surprise your friends with a platter of these delicious copycat Big Mac Bites at your next holiday gathering. The sliders feature a juicy beef patty and an authentic copycat Big Mac sauce that everyone will enjoy! These Big Mac Bites are absolutely drool-worthy and the Big Mac sauce is so spot on that your friends will be shocked that it didn’t come directly from the drive-thru!

These Big Mac Bites come together fairly quickly which makes them the perfect quick and easy appetizer to throw together for a crowd. You can also serve a keto-friendly option like these low-carb Big Mac bites!

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 4. Cobb Salad On A Stick

People may not be drawn to a bowl of a salad but they will surely be drawn to a platter of salad on a stick! These cobb salad sticks include all the best ingredients of a cobb salad, from a hard-boiled egg to crispy bacon, and fresh tomatoes. The benefit to serving cobb salad this way is that its a super easy app to grab and go while your guests are mingling.

Be sure to serve the cobbs with this delicious homemade avocado ranch dip that truly sets this appetizer over the top. As a bonus, this is also a keto-friendly recipe.

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5. Caprese Christmas Wreath

Wreaths certainly have a place on your front door but this holiday season, make this delicious Caprese Christmas wreath and share it with friends and family. It’ll surely capture everyone’s attention too. Not only is it vibrant in festive red and green colors but it’s so delicious too.

You could take a few different approaches with this appetizer. You could transform the flavors of a Caprese salad into fun skewers, or simply lay out tomatoes, basil and mozzarella into the shape of a wreath in a more charcuterie-style fashion. This finger food is full of fresh flavors and is incredibly easy to put together!

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6. Christmas Tree Cheese Platter

This Christmas finger food idea is so easy you won’t even need a recipe! Finger foods can be as simple as whipping up a delicious cheese and cracker platter. They’re a timeless crowd favorite and an easy appetizer that your guests can eat casually throughout the evening.

For Christmas this year, get creative and transform your cheese platter into one that looks like a Christmas tree. Start by choosing your favorite cheeses, crackers and possibly a few grapes too. Arrange the platter by decreasing the length of each row and before you know you’ll have a delightful Christmas tree shape.

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7. Cranberry Brie Bites

These elegant cranberry and brie bites would be a stunning addition to your holiday table. They may look fancy and intimidating but they’re actually incredibly easy to make.

With 3 simple ingredients and 25 minutes of your time, you’ll have this appetizer ready to eat in no time! Be sure to cook these cranberry brie bites in a muffin tin to turn this appetizer into the perfect finger food. While this recipe is so tasty on its own, you could also top with toasted walnuts or pecans for added crunch. Also be sure to top with a small rosemary sprig as garnish for a festive touch.

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8. Crockpot Drunken Bourbon Whisky Meatballs

Meatballs make great appetizers, especially for parties! They’re easy to grab and go and the perfect bite size snack before the main course. So set it and forget it this holiday season and make a batch of these drunken bourbon whiskey meatballs. This recipe is made in a Crockpot and only require 2 to 3 hours in comparison to other recipes that need 5 to 8 hours.

A package of frozen meatballs is smothered in a drunken bourbon whiskey sauce and then is cooked low and slow. Your friends and family will take one bite and will be back for seconds and thirds!

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9. Pigs In A Blanket

These miniature pigs in a blanket are delicious and come together in under 30 minutes. Topped with everything bagel seasoning, they’ll surely excite your taste buds.There’s no better way to start off a holiday meal than with a few delicious appetizers, and these savory pigs in a blanket will be sure to impress your guests.

If you can’t find the popular Trader Joes Everything But The Bagel Seasoning, this recipe provides instructions on how to make your own. You can also make the delicious homemade dipping sauce recipe — made with sour cream, mustard, and mayo — that pairs perfectly with this appetizer.

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10. Cake Batter Dessert Hummus

It may seem odd to enjoy a sweet flavored hummus, but we assure you that this cake batter dessert hummus is a game-changer! In only 5 minutes, you can create a dessert hummus at home using a food processor. This protein-rich appetizer will quench any sweet tooth craving yet is still packed with all the benefits and nutrients of traditional hummus.

To make this dessert hummus festive simply swap the rainbow sprinkles for red and green or any festive sprinkles that you like! Serve with wafers, cookies or fresh fruit. As a bonus, this is a dairy-free and vegan-friendly recipe.

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11. Instant Pot Artichoke and Spinach Dip

Prepare a bowl of ooey-gooey artichoke and spinach dip in a hurry this holiday season by using an Instant Pot! The delicious flavors of this dip are provided by ingredients like alfredo sauce mix, loads of cheese, and garlic powder!

By pressure cooking the dip you’ll be able to have it ready to eat very quickly! Spinach and artichoke dip is a crowd pleaser and once you discover how easy it is to make using the Instant Pot, you’ll want to make this for every occasion. Once cooked, serve the dip in a bread bowl or with your favorite chips.

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12. No-Bake Lemon Meringue Pie Dip

Who says you have to save dessert for last? Serve this lemon meringue pie dip as an appetizer and watch it disappear quickly! This dip is full of zesty flavors of lemon and sweet condensed milk. Plus, with only seven common ingredients, it’s inexpensive to feed the crowd you’re hosting!

Another bonus is that this recipe is also super light which will ensure your guests won’t get too full for when the heavy foods like turkey and stuffing are served. Top the dip with a beautiful homemade meringue and you could even add a few festive sprinkles on top too.

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13. Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Roasting chicken in the oven may take a while but if you cook it in your Instant Pot it can be done incredibly quickly! This quick and easy Instant Pot buffalo chicken slider recipe will definitely be a hit this holiday season. They’re easy to serve up to a large crowd and are almost guaranteed to be enjoyed by all, no matter a person’s tastes or aversions.

Best of all? This recipe only requires 8 simple ingredients that you likely already have at home! Tender shredded chicken is smothered in the most creamy buffalo sauce. Top the sliders with ranch and garnish with a pickle!

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14. Tuna Pickle Boats

Tuna pickle boats are about to rock your world! This simple appetizer scoops tuna salad into a dill pickle. They’re the perfect salty snack to serve to a large group and they’re friendly to multiple different lifestyles. They’re dairy free, gluten free and this recipe is also keto-friendly.

The best part is that these pickle boats can come together in just 5 minutes and require 5 simple ingredients: 5-6 dill pickles, 1 can of light flaked tuna, 1/4 cup of light mayo, 1 tbsp of fresh dill and salt & pepper to taste! Prep will take you 5 minutes and this app will be ready to enjoy!

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15. Quick and Easy Charcuterie Kabobs

Charcuterie boards are a growing trend, especially for parties since they’re perfect for grazing! What’s better than a delicious spread of meat, cheese, jam, and fruit? While you could serve a traditional charcuterie board at your next holiday get together, we highly encourage that you try making these charcuterie kabobs!

You and your friends will get to indulge in all the same ingredients you love about charcuterie but the kabobs make it easy to grab, go, and enjoy! We recommend serving the kabobs with delicious dips such as balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, olive oil, or any dipping sauce you enjoy!

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16. Speedy Tzatziki Sauce

Add in a little Greek to your holiday table this year! Tzatziki sauce can be enjoyed on salads, wraps and more but it also makes a great dip too. Thankfully, this recipe not only requires simple ingredients but it comes together in just 12 minutes.

This homemade sauce tastes so fresh and pairs so well with a variety of breads and vegetables. The base of this tzatziki sauce is Greek yogurt and it is seasoned with fragrant dill, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Finally, serve the dip with pita bread and fresh veggies. This recipe also keeps well in the fridge for leftovers.

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17. Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Scallops

These bacon-wrapped scallops look gourmet but they’re actually incredibly easy to make. Your guests will be so impressed when they see this appetizer at your holiday dinner. Better yet, this recipe comes together quickly too as the scallops can be ready to eat in just 20 minutes!

With a few simple ingredients like butter, brown sugar, and garlic you’ll be able to achieve an impressive flavor! The recipe provides several helpful tips to ensure the scallops are cooked to perfection. The brown sugar brings a unique sweet flavor which pairs perfectly with the savory bacon and salty scallops. Serve and enjoy!

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18. Puff Pastry Sausage Rolls

Forget the frozen sausage rolls this holiday season because this impressive recipe is so easy to make! Made with store-bought puff pastry, sausage and a few seasonings you’ll have this delicious sausage roll appetizer ready in just 25 minutes.

These little bites are full of flavor thanks to seasonings like basil, oregano, and thyme. They’re so savory and delicious — everyone will be back for seconds! You could also easily do variations of this recipe by adding different toppings such as bell peppers, onion, or cheese. Be sure to serve with a few dipping sauces including classic ketchup, spicy ketchup, honey mustard, and spicy mayo.

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19. Apple Goat Cheese Crostini

Crostini are a great appetizer option because you can top them with whatever creative toppings you can think of. This recipe combines sharp goat cheese and sweet apple to create an unforgettable appetizer that will be perfect to serve at your next holiday gathering.

These apple goat cheese crostinis come together in just 20 minutes and only require a handful of ingredients. Ingredients like lemon zest and juice, fresh tyme, and ground black pepper provide even more delicious flavor. The recipe uses a broiling technique to give the crostini a golden, crunchy finish that is so satisfying. Serve and enjoy!

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20. Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread

Who doesn’t love garlic bread? Considering it’s a crowd favorite you’ll want to add it to the appetizer menu. While garlic bread is obviously delicious as its own classic recipe, why not change things up a little for the holiday season? This cheesy garlic pull apart bread is truly an experience.

This isn’t any ordinary garlic bread recipe, it’s ooey-gooey cheesy and the pull-apart pieces make it an easy grab and go treat. To create the pull-apart pieces simply make generous slices throughout the bread and then fill with loads of cheese and garlic. This will be a foolproof hit!

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21. Smoked Salmon And Cream Cheese Pastries

Would you believe that an impressive appetizer like these smoked salmon and cream cheese pastries only takes20 minutes to make? This recipe proves that it can be done, and better yet, it only requires 4 simple store-bought ingredients.

You’ll need 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, cream cheese spread, a package of smoked salmon and fresh toppings. Be sure to keep an eye on the pastry as it bakes so that they don’t puff up too much, however, if they do this recipe provides a tip on what to do next! These appetizers look gourmet but are so simple to make.

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22. Loaded Baked Potato Bites

Everything you love about classic loaded baked potatoes can now be enjoyed in a delectable bite-sized appetizer. This delicious recipe comes together in just 30 minutes and will be an instant hit with your friends and family of all ages.

Simply bake the potato slices until they’re tender and golden and then top with ooey-gooey cheese. After the cheese has become bubbly you’ll want to allow the potatoes to cool slightly before adding the delicious toppings. The recipe suggests topping with grated chopped bacon, green onions or chives and a dollop of sour cream. These are both tasty and simple!

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23. Ham and Cheese Slider

These ham and cheese sliders may be a simple appetizer but they have a remarkable flavor. These neat and tidy sandwiches are packed with quality cheese and scrumptious ham. This classic combination is one that everyone loves, but may have never tried in the form of a slider.

If you want to make it a little more gourmet, you can add a slice of tomato or roasted red pepper. Sometimes though, basic is better! This is the perfect comfort food for your next holiday party! Be sure to serve these immediately because sliders are best warm and fresh. Your party guests will love these!

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24. Simple Savory Christmas Trees

How adorable are these appetizer Christmas trees?! They present themselves so beautifully on a platter and are also really fun to create. Gather a few family members and make these fun Christmas trees as a family for your Christmas party. They’ll love how interactive this appetizer is but will be even more impressed with the final result!

All you need for this easy finger food is puff pastry, green olives, cheese, salami, and whipped cream cheese. The recipe outlines the technique for folding your creation into a perfect Christmas tree. Your guests won’t be able to get enough of this appetizer — and that’s a guarantee!

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25.  Caprese Garlic Bread

Garlic Bread is one of those recipes that you don’t want to mess with because it’s so good already. Why fix something that isn’t broken, right? Well, think about this caprese recipe as garlic bread dressed up for Christmas.

This finger food is not only delicious and easy to eat, but it will be consistent with your Christmas decorations with the green basil and bright red tomatoes. Drizzle with a little balsamic reduction for the perfect tangy finish to this appetizer. These are so tasty and easy to make that your guests will beg you to make them every year!

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26. Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

You could buy store-bought jalapeno poppers but this homemade version is so much better! After all, there is something so satisfying about creating and indulging in something homemade. They taste so fresh and your guests will certainly appreciate the added effort.

Don’t be intimidated though! This recipe is very simple and in no time you’ll have an exciting finger food to add to your holiday table. All you need are 3 ingredients which include: jalapeno peppers, cream cheese and slices of bacon. In less than 30 minutes you’ll have the perfect savory and crispy appetizer ready to serve and enjoy!

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27. Seven Layer Dip

Every party needs a delicious dip to kick off the evening. This seven-layer dip will not disappoint as its full of many enticing flavors. Your guests will love this dip because its warm and cheesy but also a great appetizer to graze on throughout the evening.

The first layer starts with refried beans followed by a layer that features sour cream, cream cheese, and taco seasoning. The dip is finished with a layer of salsa and loads of delicious topping such as lettuce, cherry tomatoes and black olives. Be sure to serve the dip with your favorite chips or pitas!

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28. Turkey Cranberry Sliders

While turkey may be the main course at your Christmas dinner this year, these sliders would be a great way to get everyone’s appetites ready for the meal! These sliders contain slices of turkey deli meat, cheese, and cranberry sauce. They’re like a mini holiday dinner in a bite-sized bundle!

Sliders are excellent finger food because they’re filling enough to tide you over and they’re easy to put together. You’ll have this tasty treat ready to eat in just 25 minutes. These turkey sliders could also be a great option to use up leftovers that are inevitable with a big holiday feast.

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29. Cheese Wontons

There’s no denying that one of the best things about the holidays is the food spread. It can range from healthy fruit trays to delectable chocolates and even exciting treats like cheese wontons. While this recipe may seem initimidating, it actually only requires a few key ingredients such as cream cheese, scallions and garlic powder.

With a creamy center and crispy exterior, you’ll be shocked at how quickly these disappear at your next holiday gathering. Better yet, this is a Panda Express Copycat recipe so prepare to see everyone’s amazement when they discover you made them yourself. Serve and enjoy!

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30. Easy Red Salsa

If all else fails, you can never go wrong with a big bowl of salsa and tortilla chips for an appetizer this holiday season. While store bought salsa is obviously delicious, if you’re looking to impress this holiday season be sure to make a batch of this delicious homemade red salsa.

Making your own salsa is easier than you may think and it’s full of fresh and flavorful ingredients that you’re going to love. Simply toss the ingredients into a food processor, pulse to mix, and serve! A few of the key ingredients that give this salsa flavor include onion, cilantro, lime, garlic, and jalapeño.

The post Finger Food Ideas For Christmas In Under 30 Minutes appeared first on Forkly.

Fall might just be my favorite season. It’s the season that is welcome after a well-enjoyed summer. We trade scorching hot days for brisk cool ones. We change light clothing for beautiful layers and we transform our summery barbequed meals and salads for meals that are savory and hearty.

One of the best kitchen gadgets for fall is the slow cooker. There’s something about coming home after a long hard day to a home filled with a delicious aroma that makes us dream of fall. We have found some of the most savory recipes that will make you wish it was Fall whenever you make them. From soups to stews and even a few bevvys too, you’ll be transitioning into the season of fall tastefully and with a full satisfied belly.

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1. Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Chili

There are several things that will signal the start of fall such as the release of PSL’s at Starbucks or fallen leaves. In the food world, that signal is without a doubt when squash and pumpkins are ready. This warm bowl of butternut squash chili will warm your soul and fill your bellies.

This chili is filled with hearty ingredients such as cubed butternut squash, black beans, and northern beans. It has loads of seasoning to make this dish fill the air while it cooks. It’s very filling and is vegetarian-friendly, better yet, the whole family will love it.

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2. Crock Pot Chili And Sweet Corn Bread

If you prefer a traditional chili then you might love this recipe more. Like traditional chili, the base of this recipe is made from ground beef. Then to make it extra hearty and savory it’s filled with red kidney beans, onion, celery, and tomato sauce.

You’ll need a few bold seasonings like cumin, chili powder and Worcestershire sauce that will make this chili stand out from the rest. Along with the chili, you’ll also get a delicious must-try cornbread recipe that will pair perfectly with a warm bowl of chili.

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3. Slow Cooker Chili Mac

Following the chili trend, this recipe is far from traditional yet, is incredibly delicious. This slow cooker recipe actually combines a comfort meal like chili with another classic comfort meal like mac and cheese and transforms them into one exciting meal.

The base is made from the same ingredients as a traditional chili recipe such as ground beef, onion, garlic, crushed and diced tomatoes but what makes this unique are the noodles. The trick is to not to add them in until the last 15 minutes of cooking so they don’t turn into a disgusting mush. Once your slow cooker has done its work, you’ll want to top your bowl off with ooey-gooey cheese shreds that makes this recipe so irresistible.

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4. Slow Cooker Shepard’s Pie

Growing up, Shepard’s pie often made the meal rotations. It’s savory, comforting and often, a crowd favorite. As an adult, I never fathomed the idea of creating Shepard’s pie in a slow cooker but this recipe proves how easy it actually is.

The base of this Shepard’s pie is made from lamb mince. It’s browned in onion then added to the slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients. This will slow cook for at least 5 hours. Right before those 5 hours are up, you’ll want to peel and cook the potatoes to make the savory mashed potato layer. Once completed, you’ll add them to the slow cooker and cook for an additional 1 to 2 hours.

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5. Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Along with chili, soups are other awesome recipes that make us dream of Autumn. Soups come in many flavors and textures that there is definitely a soup out there for everyone. Chicken noodle soup has to be one of the best soup classics.

This recipe is conveniently made in the slow cooker so that you can come home to a delicious homecooked meal with minimal effort. This recipe is made from boneless chicken breasts, chicken stock, spaghetti noodles and enough seasoning to keep it exciting. Keep this recipe on hand because you’ll want to make it all year long.

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6. Slow Cooker Beef And Barley Soup

Another classic and timeless soup recipe is beef and barley soup. It’s savory soup base and chunky pieces of beef will make you think of fall whenever you enjoy it.

The soup base comes from beef broth and crushed tomatoes. Then you’ll fill the slow cooker with browned beef chunks, cubed carrots, and potatoes, diced celery and loads of seasonings. The smell of it cooking will definitely make your mouth salivate in anticipation for dinner.

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7. Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup

Butternut squash soup is one of my most favorite fall recipes. It’s creamy, hearty and definitely filling. The warm flavors always remind me of fall whenever I enjoy it.

Carrot and butternut squash provide this soup with a hearty flavor while a Granny Smith apple helps balance it out with it’s sweet and tart flavors. You’ll need a few more ingredients and several hours to make this soup come to life. Once cooked, an immersion blender will help you create the creamy texture.

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8. Slow Cooker Creamy Pumpkin Soup

Squash and pumpkin have a similar flavor but they’re distinct enough that you can surely taste the difference. Try this creamy pumpkin soup to get you into the fall spirit!

Some squash and pumpkin soup recipes are quite sweet but rest assured, this recipe is not. Pumpkin puree and several seasonings make this soup taste like fall while unsweetened coconut milk will make it extra creamy!  If you’re looking for something savory to warm the soul then you’ll love this recipe.

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9. Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie is another classic family meal. It’s an easy way to throw good sources of protein and vegetables all into one meal. This recipe isn’t like your traditional chicken pot pie as there isn’t a crust that surrounds the filling but serve this slow cooker chicken pot pie with a warm biscuit and you’ll won’t even notice the difference.

The trick is to cook chicken breasts amongst the other ingredients for around 8 hours until it reaches a tender texture. Then, you’ll want to take the chicken breasts out, shred and mix back in to finish cooking.

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10. Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken

Pull apart chicken is so easy to make with a slow cooker. You simply let the chicken cook for hours until it’s tender and easy to pull apart. Slow cooking chicken is also great for flavor. The chicken has a longer time period to soak up all the flavors and delicious sauce.

The other great thing about slow cooking is because of the temperature settings you can either cook it for just a couple of hours or up to a full day and the results will be great either way. Once the chicken has cooked in the scrumptious honey BBQ sauce, you’ll want to shred it using two forks then mix it around in the sauce. Serve the chicken on your favorite bun and top off with coleslaw for a crunchy bite.

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11. Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Pulled pork is often enjoyed during the summer but because the flavors are warm, delicious and exciting it can make you daydream of fall too. By slow cooking, the meat will reach a tender texture that can easily pull apart. The flavors will fill your home with a warm and inviting scent.

This recipe walks you through how to create delicious pulled pork in the slow cooker and even provides you with a delicious sauce that the roast is bathed and cooked in. Then, once the pork is ready all you’ll have to do is shred, and then serve on a bun with your favorite barbeque sauce.

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12. Crockpot Beef Stew

One of my favorite food memories as a kid is when I wrote an “about me” profile, I once wrote, “my favorite food is my Mom’s homemade beef stew”. There was something about the stew that made me always think about home cooking, warm memories, and good food. It’s nostalgic for some, and others it’s simply a deliciously warm meal that is especially enjoyed on a cool Autumn day.

This slow cooker recipe can be the perfect meal to enjoy with your family as you transition into the cooler months. It has loads of flavor, and plenty of texture that keeps something like a stew still new and exciting.

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13. Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls

Taco and burrito night is a lot of fun, however, generally, it does take a bit of work. In an attempt to help you save time and effort you need to try this slow cooker chicken burrito bowl recipe.

It’s savory and thrilling and better yet will be perfectly enjoyed on a brisk fall day. The great thing about this recipe is it has a lot of adaptations. If you need to make it vegetarian it’ll walk you through how to customize the recipe. Furthermore, this recipe does require you to add in additional ingredients 2 to 3 hours into cooking so if you’re unable to fulfill this step it will walk you through how you can cook it all day but still end up with the same end result.

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14. Slow Cooker Chicken And Mushroom Stroganoff

The great thing about this slow cooker recipe is that the flavors will help you transition into to fall nicely but this recipe requires minimal effort. It will only take a couple minutes to throw all the ingredients into the slow cooker. Go about your day and you’ll have a meal ready for you and your family in no time.

This chicken and mushroom stroganoff serves nicely on a bed of noodles. Don’t be surprised when this meal gets requested time and time again.

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15. Slow Cooker Spiked Apple Cider

When thinking about fall favorites, apple cider always comes to mind. The sweet flavor of apple mixed with the perfect flavors of cinnamon and cloves that makes us think of fallen leaves and cool breezes.

This apple cider is special for a couple reasons. Firstly, it’s made in a slow cooker which means you can prepare a large warm batch for a party or for a fun family function. Secondly, this apple cider recipe gets a grown-up makeover and is spiked with brandy. This will quickly become your new fall favorite too.

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16. Crock Pot Apple Cider

If you don’t love alcoholic beverages or are seeking a family-friendly option, then you need to try this crock pot apple cider recipe. It takes on a similar approach to the previous recipe but requires a few different ingredients.

This recipe skips the brandy and premade apple cider because this recipe is completely homemade. This recipe requires not just orange slices but lemon slices too. You’ll also add in sliced apples and fresh cranberries. Then to season make sure to add in cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and whole star anise. By adding water to cover all the ingredients and a bit of sweetener of your choice, the slow cooker will bring this apple cider to life.

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17. Slow Cooker Loaded Mashed Potatoes

Along with stew, mashed potatoes often made my top favorite food lists. There’s something about mashed potatoes that makes them so comforting. Apart from all the carbs (obviously), it’s the creamy texture, buttery and salty flavor that makes me love them so much.

This recipe isn’t any ordinary mashed potato recipe, they’re loaded with additional exciting ingredients and conveniently made in the slow cooker. It works by allowing the potatoes to cook in the slow cooker for up to 7 hours with just broth and a few seasonings. Then you’ll add in butter and mash until they’re nice and creamy. The last step is the best part when you’ll throw in all the fun ingredients that make these loaded mashed potatoes so alluring.

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18.  Slow Cooker Fried Apples

The slow cooker can do more than just cook us delicious hearty meals or drinks that make us dream of fall, slow cookers can cook delicious desserts too. Come full circle with your slow cooker and try making these fried apples for a treat to share with your family or bring them to a party.

First, you’ll want to peel and cut apples then you’ll want to add them to the slow cooker with a bit of cornstarch. Once the apples are evenly coated you’ll add in sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, butter and lemon juice and cook the apples until tender, it’s incredibly easy! They’ll taste great on their own or you could serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a divine treat.

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19. Slow Cooker Pumpkin Monkey Bread

When I think about flavors of fall, pumpkin always comes to mind. The great thing about pumpkin is that its a vegetable that can be used in savory meals but also in sweet dessert recipes too. This pumpkin monkey bread is a must try this fall season.

This monkey bread recipe begins with 2 cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls. The bread achieves a pumpkin flavor from both pumpkin pie spice and from canned pumpkin and has a sweet cheesecake filling that make this bread highly addictive.

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20. Pumpkin Overnight Oats

Your slow cooker can be a great tool for creating the perfect overnight oats. It’s an easy way to prepare a breakfast meal while you sleep, after all, mornings are too crazy to be whipping up elaborate breakfast’s.

This overnight oats recipe is special because it has savory flavors of pumpkin that will have you embracing the season of Fall. You’ll want to make sure to use steel cut oats and not mistakenly quick cooking, instant or rolled oats as they will cook too quickly. Pumpkin puree, ground cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg will give this breakfast meal an Autumn makeover.

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21. Crockpot Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler

The fun thing about cobbler is it can be made with many different ingredients. It tastes wonderful with berries but importantly, for fall, pumpkin is what shines in this recipe.

The cobbler will only need a couple hours to cook in the slow cooker. This means you can set the dessert in the slow cooker, enjoy a wonderful meal with friends and family and have a warm dessert to indulge in after your wonderful meal.

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22. Slow Cooker Pumpkin Spice Latte

As soon as summer comes to a close, pumpkin spice lattes, AKA PSL, is all the rage. You might be tempted to run to your nearest Starbucks for a quick PSL fix but you have got to try this recipe.

The recipe proves how easy it is to make your own pumpkins spice lattes at home. Conveniently it’s made in the slow cooker which means the aroma will fill your home as it heats up. This crock pock PSL would be great to bring to a gathering or party to share.

The post Crock Pot Recipes To Get You Excited For Fall appeared first on Forkly.

There is nothing quite as satisfying as eating soup on a cold or dreary day or for when you’re feeling under the weather. Soup is delicious but cooking it low and slow is the best way to achieve a wonderful depth of flavor. So cooking soup low and slow in a slow cooker is a no-brainer! Slow cookers are amazing kitchen gadgets because they do all the hard work for you and in most cases, don’t require supervision.

There are so many great recipes you can make in a slow cooker such as crockpot honey garlic chicken, slow cooker apple crisp and even slow cooker potluck recipes, however, today we’ll be focusing on all the delicious soup recipes you should try! So let’s all indulge in effortless cooking and fill our bellies with a savory and comforting bowl of soup!

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1. Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

We’re going to start with a classic and crowd favorite, a chicken noodle soup. This soup is often the go-to for when you’re feeling under the weather but it truly can be enjoyed any time of year.

With soft noodles, tender chicken, and crunchy veggies, there is a lot to look forward to in this soup. There are also many fragrant seasonings in this soup such as Italian seasoning, thyme, rosemary, and more.

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2. Easy Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

Lasagna is delicious, however, it does require quite a bit of effort and time to assemble. The perfect solution to enjoying a delicious lasagna without all the effort is to enjoy the same flavors in a soup!

This recipe combines lasagna noodles with ground beef and the perfect seasonings to replicate the flavors you have come to know and love. Be sure to serve the soup with a dollop of ricotta cheese, and additional shredded cheese for an authentic lasagna experience.

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3. Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup

Beef barley soup is hearty and savory. Full of tender chunks of beef, and wholesome veggies, this is a meal your whole family will love.

This recipe requires 15 minutes of hands-on time and yields 6 servings. You’ll also be provided with tips on how to freeze the soup for later as well as a tip on how to pick the perfect piece of meat for this soup.

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4. Slow Cooker Butternut Squash And Sweet Potato Soup

Not only is this soup savory but it’s vegetarian and vegan-friendly. Free of dairy, yet still incredibly creamy thanks to the blended veggies.

Along with butternut squash and sweet potato, this soup also contains apple. The apple makes the soup sweeter, however, if you don’t enjoy sweet flavors you can omit this ingredient. Additionally, the soup is also seasoned with a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg.

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5. Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie is delicious but we all know that it’s the filling that’s the exciting part. So ditch the pie crust, throw the ingredients in a slow cooker and enjoy chicken pot pie as a soup!

Don’t worry, you don’t have to miss that beloved pie crust as this soup is served with a flaky biscuit. You’ll also enjoy the incredibly creamy texture thanks to heavy cream.

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6. Tomato Tortellini Soup

Savory tomato soup is filled with delicious tortellini pasta and together they create one unforgettable comforting meal. A few ingredients such as onion, basil, and garlic provide the wonderful flavor.

Keep in mind, this soup recipe yields 6 servings. Simply toss the ingredients into a slow cooker and allow it to cook low and slow.

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7. Easy Taco Soup

Try something different this Taco Tuesday and share a pot of delicious taco soup with your family. This soup is full of classic taco ingredients such as ground beef, beans, and corn.

It’s important to season the soup with cumin, chili powder, and a few other seasonings to provide an authentic taco flavor. Finally, serve the soup with a dollop of whipped cream and shredded cheese.

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8. Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

This split pea soup may be comforting and delicious but it is also healthy! In fact, it contains roughly 21 grams of fiber as well as 28 grams of protein per serving.

This soup also contains ham which adds flavor and protein. Additionally, the soup requires just 5 minutes of hands-on time which makes this an effortless meal to throw together.

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9. Slow Cooker Potato Soup

Everything you love about baked potatoes can now be enjoyed in a warm bowl of soup! This slow cooker recipe combines russet potatoes with cream cheese, chicken stock, and a few seasonings to create a delicious and creamy soup.

To recreate the loaded baked potato flavors, be sure to top the soup with shredded cheese, scallions, and crumbled bacon. Don’t be surprised when this soup becomes a new favorite in your house!

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10. Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup

Italian wedding soup is classic and often, a crowd favorite too. It can now be prepared effortlessly with the help of a slow cooker. This recipe does require homemade meatballs, however, the time and effort that go into preparing them will be well worth the effort.

Both the homemade meatballs and the soup are infused with fragrant seasonings. It’s also important to note that the pasta is not added to the slow cooker until 20 minutes prior to dinnertime. This is because if the pasta is added in too early, you’ll be left with soggy, overcooked pasta!

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11. Slow Cooker Carrot Ginger Soup

This slow cooker soup recipe is full of healthy veggies and packed with flavor. To achieve the most flavor, be sure to use freshly minced or pressed garlic as well as freshly grated ginger.

Once cooked, you’ll need to blend the ingredients with an immersion blender. The addition of coconut milk, as well as the help of a blender, will create a silky smooth texture. Finally, serve the soup with a dollop of sour cream.

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12. Slow Cooker French Onion Soup

French onion soup can be prepared effortlessly with the help of a slow cooker. Filled with caramelized onions, savory broth, and loads of ooey-gooey cheese, there is a lot to look forward to.

To create caramelized onions, you’ll first need to cook the onions with butter, sugar, and seasonings for 8 hours. Then you can add the remaining ingredients and cook for an addition 4 hours. While the total cook time is almost 12 hours, the depth of flavor will be well worth the wait.

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13. Hearty Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup

Slow cooker minestrone soup is delicious and chock full of healthy ingredients. This soup has an excellent combination of comforting pasta, protein-rich beans, and healthy veggies.

The only hands-on work required for this recipe is chopping the veggies, the rest of the work is completed by the slow cooker making this an effortless meal to throw together.

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14. Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup

This wild rice soup is creamy and overflowing in flavor. It consists of simple ingredients such as chicken broth, wild rice, chicken and a few chopped veggies.

You’ll only need a dash of poultry seasoning as well as some white wine to create a brilliant depth of flavor. The soup becomes creamy with the addition of milk, butter, and flour but this isn’t added until the very end.

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15. Slow Cooker Clam Chowder

Seafood lovers, this soup is calling your name! With a creamy texture and rich flavor, this clam chowder is dressed to impress!

This chowder consists of tender potatoes, clam pieces, thick-cut smoky bacon, and several wonderful seasonings. Be sure to garnish the soup with additional bacon pieces, chives, and your favorite crackers.

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16. Slow Cooker Vegetable Barley Soup

This slow cooker soup recipe is perfect for a Meatless Monday or if you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet. It’s budget-friendly, full of flavor and certainly healthy. Each serving contains about 164 calories.

This soup is chock full of veggies, from green beans to sweet potato, and carrots. It is also loaded with wonderful flavor thanks to seasonings such as paprika, oregano, thyme, and more.

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17. Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli fan or not, you’re going to love this creamy broccoli cheddar soup. This recipe is a copycat version of Panera Bread’s broccoli cheddar soup. Take one bite, and you’ll feel like you’re dining at the restaurant.

The soup is creamy, cheesy, and oh so savory! Keep in mind, there are instructions on how to prepare this soup on the stovetop, however, to gain instructions to cook it in a slow cooker, simply scroll to the bottom of the recipe.

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18. Slow Cooker Tomato Soup

Tomato soup is a classic, however, ditch the cans of soup because making it from scratch is just as easy! Plus, the slow cooker basically does all the work for you which means this is a great weeknight dinner contender.

This budget-friendly soup recipe contains simple ingredients such as canned diced and crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and several delicious seasonings. To make it creamy, simply use an immersion blender to blend the soup.

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19. Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup

Who needs the drive-through when you can dig into this delicious soup! All the flavors you love about cheeseburgers are now morphed into an incredibly savory and comforting soup.

You won’t even miss the burger bun as this soup contains chunks of comforting potatoes and is served with crunchy croutons. You could also serve the soup with sliced pickles for a full cheeseburger experience.

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20. Slow Cooker Beef Ramen

Ramen is delicious because it has a wonderful depth of flavor. While you may be used to ordering takeout from your favorite restaurant, it’s actually quite easy to make at home too.

This recipe requires that you sear the meat prior to adding all the ingredients to the slow cooker. While this is an extra step, it will only add more flavor to the soup. It’s also important to cook the ramen noodles separately so that they don’t overcook or become soggy in the slow cooker.

The post Easy Slow Cooker Soup Recipes appeared first on Forkly.

Let’s face it, we all live busy lives and with those busy nights come stressful dinner times. If you’re like me, it’s all too often that I get home from work exhausted and the last thing on my mind is cooking a darn meal. We get it, it is exhausting. But what if we could help make those hectic weeknights a little easier?

We have found 20 amazing weeknights meals for you. The best part, they’re all 30 minutes or less! So set up that Ipad, put your favorite Netflix show on and your dinner will be ready before your show even ends! Get ready to have epic meals every night, bye bye fast food!

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1. Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice is a comforting classic that you can’t go wrong with. This specific recipe tastes just your like your favorite Asian takeout dish but maybe even a little better. The best part? You can make and enjoy this in the comfort of your own home!

This chicken fried rice recipe happens to be budget friendly and is exploding with flavor and textures. You’ll experience flavors of jasmine rice, garlic, soy sauce, loaded veggies, and tender chicken bites. Don’t be surprised when the family requests this one again. It may even become one of the staple dishes in your dinner rotation.

Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 18 min

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2. Skillet Tuscan Tortellini

One pot meals are the best for minimal clean up which in conclusion means less mess, hooray! This skillet tuscan tortellini meal will take just 18 minutes to make, but don’t let the short cook time fool you, this dish is packed with flavor.

Tortellini are fun little pasta bites that offer a surprise in the middle. In this dish, you want to use an irresistible cheese filled tortellini. You’ll combine the tortellini with sausage, several veggies and tons of seasoning. To complete the dish you’ll want to consume all the ingredients in a savory tomato sauce and garnish with parmesan cheese.

Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 8 min

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3. Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine With Spinach And Tomatoes

Are you craving carbs for dinner tonight? Quench your carb craving by whipping up this delicious shrimp fettuccine meal. The cheesy and creamy sauce tossed with tasty vegetables will have you and the whole family coming back for seconds.

In this dish, you’ll find soft fettuccine noodles, tender shrimp and savory tomatoes and spinach. Your dinner will come together in just 30 minutes and it will taste like Italian cuisine just stepped into our kitchen. It’s a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for weeknights when you’re in a pinch for time but still want a hearty meal for dinner.

Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 20 min

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4. Quick & Easy Instant Pot Macaroni and Cheese

You can never go wrong with classic mac and cheese. Both children and adults alike love this cheesy bowl of goodness! While you may be tempted to grab a box of mac and cheese from the grocery store for a quick dinner, we promise using the Instant Pot and our homemade recipe is just as easy (if not easier)!

We found that homemade mac and cheese packs even more flavor and cheesy texture that you and your family are going to love. The best part is that this recipe requires simple and inexpensive ingredients which makes this an excellent weeknight meal.

Prep time: 0 min, Cook Time: 10 min

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5. Teriyaki Salmon

Salmon is a great healthy and simple meal to incorporate to your weekly menu. Experience salmon like never before with this delicious teriyaki sauce recipe. The homemade teriyaki sauce is full of sweet and flavorful ingredients and will only take you a few minutes to whip up.

The sauce has hints of bold ginger, zesty lemon, garlic and is sweetened with brown sugar and honey. Depending on how hungry you are, you could eat the salmon on its own or while it cooks in the oven you could cook up a side of rice and steamed veggies of your choice.

Prep time: 15 min, Cook Time: 15 min

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6. One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Chicken parmesan is delicious but all the steps it takes to get there isn’t always realistic for a busy weeknight. When your craving for chicken parmesan creeps up you’ll want to give this one-pot recipe a try. It simplifies chicken parm in a streamlined way but still brings all the great flavors of the classic dish that you love.

Not only will this meal flood the flavors of chicken parmesan in your mouth but it also is cooked in just one pot. In just 30 minutes you can enjoy this cheesy flavorful and filling meal that your entire family will love.

Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 20 min

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7. Tuscan Sausage Potato Soup

Some days you just grave a big ol’ bowl of soup. It’s comforting, warm and packs a lot of flavor into just one bowl. This Tuscan sausage and potato soup is definitely not lacking in the flavor department and is definitely full of amazing textures.

You’ll find chunky potatoes, delicious Italian sausage and nutrient-dense kale in this soup. Add a bit of cream to make it extra creamy and you’ll be able to enjoy this in no time. Soups often freeze well too so you might want to make a double batch of this one and have an even quicker meal the next time you want to enjoy it.

Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 20 min

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8. Quick & Easy Instant Pot Deconstructed Lasagna

Lasagna is a crowd favorite in my household but unfortunately, it does require quite a bit of work to prep. So we set out to transform a traditionally labor-intensive meal into one that is quick and easy and fit for a busy weeknight.

The solution? Use an Instant Pot and try our deconstructed method! You’re able to indulge in the same savory flavors you know and love but won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen preparing it. It tastes just as delicious and comforting as traditional lasagna without all the intense prep work. You’ll be so impressed with the final result!

Prep time: 0 min, Cook Time: 30 min

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9. Steak Fajitas Recipe

If you feel like having a fiesta for dinner you’ll want to bring these steak fajitas to the dinner table. It starts with steak strips and sliced peppers and ends with a soft tortilla and perfect toppings.

To make the steak and veggies even more flavorful you’ll want to whip up a quick marinade and have it sit in the fridge overnight. Then when you’re ready to prepare the meal you’ll cook all the ingredients in one skillet. It only takes 25 minutes so you can fuel the bellies of your family before soccer practice in a hurry. A perfect weeknight meal!

Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 15 min

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10. 5-Ingredient Baked Chicken Enchilada Tacos

Tacos, fajitas, and enchiladas might seem similar but what makes them truly different is the filling and often the spices and flavor. Taco night is often a family favorite and you’ll definitely want to give this recipe a try if you’re looking for an easy twist on a classic meal.

To make these chicken baked chicken enchilada tacos, you’ll start by shredding a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken (the inexpensive kind from the grocery store), mixing with enchilada sauce and filling taco shells fitted into a casserole dish. Then top them off with loads of cheese before you bake them to perfection in the oven.

Prep time: 15 min, Cook Time: 10 min

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11. One-Pan Cheesy Jalapeno Chicken

If you want to feed your family a protein-packed cheesy dinner then this would be a great fit for you. This is another one pan wonder meal that will make your busy weeknight dinners a breeze.

To get this meal going you’ll want to start with a flavorful chicken rub prior to cooking it in the pan. They’ll start in the pan but finish in the oven to reach a crispy yet tender perfection. While the oven does its magic you’ll get started on the cooking the corn and jalapenos in the same pan used for the chicken. You’ll then add the chicken back into the pan, add a generous amount of cheese and finish with zesty lime juice.

Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 15 min

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12. Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie is another insanely comforting meal, especially during the cooler months, but it does require some work. Why not make a family-favorite meal effortlessly using your Instant Pot? You’ll never make chicken pot pie the traditional way again after using your Instant Pot to help along the way.

While you can’t exactly bake a pie in the Instant Pot, you can cook the delicious filling of a chicken pot pie. It’s savory, creamy and full of delicious flavors and intriguing textures. To complete the meal, serve a bowl of the chicken pot pie with a warm biscuit! Enjoy!

Prep time: 5 min, Cook Time: 25 min

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13. Perogy Kielbasa Skillet

Perogy’s do taste great on their own but once you try them in this skillet dish there might be no turning back. This recipe combines perogies, kielbasa, caramelized onions, and ooey-gooey cheese into one incredible meal.

To save yourself time on those busy weeknights you’ll want to purchase store-bought perogies. The secret to making this dish extra creamy and cheesy is to combine cream cheese, sour cream, and chicken broth. The secret to preventing the sour cream from curdling is to add a bit of flour to the mixture. The best part is this meal takes less than 30 minutes to make.

Prep time: 5 min, Cook Time: 15 min

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14. Mini Chicken Pot Pies

When it comes to classic family dinners, chicken pot pie often makes the list. The idea of combining vegetables with chicken and a creamy filling all inside a flaky pie crust has stood the test of time. This is mostly because the savory flavor is so wonderful which makes you crave it time and time again.

This recipe takes the idea of chicken pot pies but serves them in adorable single servings, you can thank your muffin tin for that. You can have these mini delights made within 30 minutes and their single servings mean you and the family and eat them on your way out the door.

Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 20min

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15. Instant Pot Kung Pao Chicken

Why order takeout when you can make delicious Asian cuisine from the comfort of your own home! Once again the Instant Pot comes in handy to create and cook a delicious meal in the knick of time! Your family will absolutely love this Asian dish.

With one pot and 30 minutes, you can be digging into this sweet and savory kung pao chicken! This dish is loaded with flavor and pairs wonderfully with a side of rice. This recipe is super easy to prep, requires a quick cleanup, and creates a satisfied belly. It doesn’t get any better than that!

Prep time: 5 min, Cook Time: 25 min

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16. Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta With Chicken

If you have a hard time prying your kids away from their beloved mac and cheese, then you’ll want to give this garlic penne pasta recipe a try. The creamy texture alone will have them adding this dinner to their favorite list. It brings all the cheese flavors they love in a new form paired with tender chicken and flavorful garlic.

You can easily achieve this creamy garlic sauce by combining chicken broth with milk. Then, add some parmesan cheese to complete this ooey-gooey dish that will be fun for you and for the kids! It takes just 10 minutes to prep and 15 to cook, which is another bonus!

Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 15 min

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17. 7 Layer Dip Burritos

Dinners don’t always have to be extravagant to taste wonderful and to fill you up. This 7 layer burrito bowl meal shows how a no-bake recipe can make a delicious meal that the whole family will enjoy.

7 layer dip is often a popular appetizer that makes an appearance at many parties. However, if you combine those lovely layers into a soft tortilla you’ll have a filling and flavorful meal in no time. All you’ll need is 15 minutes of your time and easily accessible store-bought ingredients. From refined beans to creamy guacamole these burritos have all the flavors you’ll ever want.

Prep time: 15 min, Cook Time: 0 min

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18. Easy Weeknight Leftover Chicken Quesadillas

Do you have leftover chicken sitting in your fridge? Then you need to whip together this delicious easy weeknight leftover chicken quesadillas! Quesadillas don’t get enough attention and considering they’re so easy to prepare we should make them more often! They’re the perfect meal to use up leftover chicken and not to mention they taste delicious!

All you need to make this recipe is pre-cooked chopped or shredded chicken (we used leftover chicken from our Instant Pot Whole Rotisserie Chicken), salsa, and shredded cheese of your choice! These quesadillas pair great with guacamole, sour cream and our favorite, Copycat Chipotle Burrito Sauce.

Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 15-20 min

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19. Pepperoni Cheese Pizza Bombs

You might be tempted to grab a pizza on a busy weeknight but when you find out how easy these pizza bombs are to make you’ll surely want to make them on the regular instead. They will be a huge hit with your family!

One of the best parts about this recipe is that you don’t even have to make any complicated pizza dough. Instead, you’ll use store-bought crescent rolls. This will allow you to have a fluffy, flaky delicious pizza crust. By stuffing the crescent rolls with cubed string cheese, pepperoni and pasta sauce you’ll accomplish a savory pizza bomb that will keep everyone wanting more.

Prep time: 2 min, Cook Time: 10 min

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20. Chicken In Coconut Mango Verde Sauce

Busy weeknights don’t mean you can’t experiment or try something new when it comes to your meal. If you’re looking to add a little variety to your life when it comes to the food department then you’ll definitely want to try this recipe.

This meal starts with stir-fried chicken and mixed vegetables and then ends with a creamy coconut mango Verde sauce. While the sauce may sound intimidating, it’s actually very simple. To make the sauce, it’s as easy as tossing all the ingredients into the blender and blending until velvety smooth. This meal pairs wonderfully with rice of your choice.

Prep time: 20 min, Cook Time: 10 min

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21. 30-Minute Instant Pot Orange Chicken Dump Dinner

Our 15-Minute Instant Pot Orange Chicken is so popular that we decided to transform those flavors into a quick and easy one-pot dump dinner! This idea essentially means that you dump all the ingredient into the pot and pressure cook without the need to do any sautéing!

The Instant Pot makes cooking delicious meals so easy and effortless. While you wait you can catch up on your favorite TV shows or more productively, tackle your to-do list! In 30 minutes (or less) you’ll have yourself a delicious dinner, sides and all to enjoy! These citrusy and savory flavors will become a new favorite in your house.

Prep time: 5 min, Cook Time: 25 min

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22. Skillet Meatloaf With Pan Gravy

Meatloaf is another family classic that has been making an appearance on the dinner table for many years. It’s savory and comforting but often takes what feels like hours to cook. This game-changing recipe allows you to enjoy the flavor and texture you love about meatloaf but in 20 quick minutes.

The secret in saving time is to make individual sized meatloaf patties instead of just one loaf. To cook, you’ll saute them in a skillet. Then with the drippings that are left over, you’ll make a creamy and irresistible gravy sauce to pour on top. They’re filling enough on their own but if you have some extra time you could even make mashed potatoes to pair.

Prep time: 5 min, Cook Time: 15 min

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23. Bang Bang Fish Tacos

If the color of this meal doesn’t make a lasting impression on you, the flavor surely will. Fish tacos are often a restaurant classic but this recipe shows you how easy it is to make them in your own home too.

For convenience and to save yourself some time you’ll want to use store-bought fish sticks. However, the homemade bang bang sauce is what will truly shine in this recipe. If you haven’t had bang bang sauce before, the flavors are the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. This dinner comes together as easy as combing a cabbage slaw, fish sticks, bang bang sauce all on top of a soft tortilla.

Prep time: 16 min, Cook Time: 14 min

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24. Quick & Easy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta

This delicious Tuscan chicken pasta recipe is essentially the more sophisticated version of mac and cheese. It’s so creamy and filling that your kids are still going to love it but you’ll be happy to have something a little fancier than good ol’ mac and cheese!

Our Tuscan chicken pasta contains vibrant flavors of sundried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, and is topped with fresh basil. The creamy sauce comes from cream cheese, milk, and parmesan cheese. The Instant Pot makes this recipe incredibly simple to make and allows you to create a homemade dish without an excessive amount of prep.

Prep time: 5 min, Cook Time: 25 min

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25. Caesar Salad Wonton Cups

It’s no surprise that encouraging children to enjoy and eat salad can be a difficult task. Although, if you present the salad to them in a fun way they might feel more inclined to eat it. This recipe shows exactly how you can do that.

Caesar salad is delicious on its own. It’s often made of creamy Caesar dressing mixed with crisp romaine lettuce and then topped off with salty bacon bits, crunchy croutons, and cheese. To make it fun for the kids you’ll make edible bowls out of baked wonton papers that they surely won’t be able to resist.

Prep time: 20 min, Cook Time: 10 min

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26. Lemon Chicken And Asparagus Foil Packs

Foil packs are a great way to achieve single servings ready in a hurry. They’re also great because you can grill them or bake them all year round and they’ll turn out perfect either way. We love this lemon chicken and asparagus foil pack meal as an easy weeknight hack.

This recipe combines tender chicken and asparagus with zesty lemon. These foil packs also only take 30 minutes to make so you can have a protein-rich meal ready for the family swiftly. The chicken will come out juicy and the asparagus will be flavorful for an incredible weeknight meal that all will love.

Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 20 min

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27. Easy Weeknight Instant Pot Copycat Hamburger Helper

Much like mac and cheese, hamburger helper is also readily available at the grocery store in a boxed form. While the boxed variety is easy to make so is our homemade version! If you or your family is a big fan of hamburger helper, this recipe will help you elevate the dish to a new level.

Once again the Instant Pot allows us to make homemade versions of our comforting favorites. To replicate a true copycat version of Hamburger Helper you will need ground beef, cream of mushroom soup, egg noodles and just a few other ingredients. Your picky eaters are bound to love this dinner too!

Prep time: 0 min, Cook Time: 26 min

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28. Instant Pot Taco Soup

We’ve looked at fajitas and we’ve discovered baked tacos but now it’s time to take those Mexican flavors we love and put them into a soup. Remember that Instant Pot you received as a gift during the holidays? You’ll get to break it out and put it to hard work again.

This soup includes shredded chicken breast, protein-rich black beans, corn kernels and loads of other flavors we love about tacos. To garnish this soup and give it an authentic taco flare you’ll want to add tortilla chips, a dollop of sour cream and a generous handful of shredded cheese.

Prep time: 5 min, Cook Time: 25 min

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29. Better-Than-Takeout Low Carb Egg Roll in a Bowl

While egg rolls are delicious, they tend to be a little unhealthy because they’re usually deep fried! They’re also a lot of work to make from scratch, which isn’t always ideal for a weeknight meal.

If you’re a big fan of egg rolls but don’t want all the work, let us introduce you to our Egg Roll in a Bowl, which is essentially the filling of a traditional egg roll. It’s as delicious as it sounds and it’s quick to make with a little help from your Instant Pot. This recipe is also fairly low carb, which means it’s Keto Diet approved!

Prep time: 2 min, Cook Time: 22 min

The post Easy Weeknight Meals: Great Recipes in 30 Minutes or Less appeared first on Forkly.

Every new year comes new diet trends and we’re on a mission to discover what they are and help you understand why they’re trending. It is evident that the general public is trying to move away from fad diets and instead move towards healthy ways of living. With that said, there is a strong emphasis on diets such as the vegan diet, the paleo diet, the Mediterranean diet, whole 30 and so many more.

With so many different diets come many conflicting restrictions. Should we eat meat? Should we not eat meat? Should we boycott eggs, should we give up dairy and so on. It is so easy to get lost in the overwhelming information.  Dr. Hyman has decided to read between the lines of these diets and has discovered that perhaps we shouldn’t be following one diet, but the combination of two. In a blog post, Dr. Hyman explains how he came up with the term the pegan diet which is a combination of the vegan diet and the paleo diet. The vegan diet is a diet that abstains from the use of any animal products or by-products. In contrast, the paleo diet, also known as the caveman diet is a diet that relies on foods that humans would have consumed during the Paleolithic era.

Studies have shown that both diets can help aid weight loss, improve heart health, lower cholesterol and even could reverse diabetes. While both diets are different they do have similarities and Dr. Hyman recognizes that a combination of both diets as well a personalized approach depending on your own personal health conditions, preferences, and needs could promote a very healthy way of living. The main thing to remember is that both diets focus on wholesome foods that are sustainably raised. We’re going to go over what is recommended and what is not recommended on this diet as well as some excellent recipes to help get you started. Keep in mind we are not medical doctors and we highly recommend that you seek your medical professional before making any changes to your diet.

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1. Put Emphasis On Low Glycemic Foods

Both the paleo diet and a vegan diet can agree that foods that are low in sugar and refined carbohydrates are good for us. In fact, studies have shown that low glycemic foods could result in weight loss, lower blood sugar levels as well as lower the risk of heart disease which is a common problem among Americans.

In conclusion, avoid refined sugary foods and refined carbs. Instead, choose organic options such as green vegetables, nuts, fruits, and lentils.

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2. Enjoy Loads of Veggies And Fruits

Both diets will agree that a plate that is thriving in fruits and vegetables is the best way to go. Hyman recommends that 75 percent of your diet and your plate should be made up of low glycemic vegetables and fruits.

Keep in mind, the deeper the color and the more variety, the better! “This provides a high phytonutrient content protective against most diseases.” Explains Hyman.

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3. Consume The Right Kind of Fats

When consuming fats it’s important to put an emphasis on a diet that is thriving in omega 3’s. This fatty acid is essential for maintaining both a healthy body and brain!

Keep in mind that you’ll want to avoid vegetable oils, sunflower oil, corn oil, canola oil and especially soybean oil. That’s because these types of oils are highly processed. Instead choose foods that are high in omega 3’s such as olive oil, nuts, coconut, and avocados.

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4. Avoid Dairy

While some diets encourage dairy consumption, both the paleo diet and the vegan diet do not condone it. Not everyone is intolerant to dairy products but studies have shown that it may contribute to obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

If you feel the need or urge to have dairy products try goat or sheep products but make sure it is enjoyed as a treat and that the products are always organic. There are plenty of dairy-free versions of your favorite dairy foods to try out too.

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5. Avoid Gluten

Gluten allergies and intolerances are on the rise and at a fast rate! Thanks to gluten, millions of Americans are suffering from inflammation, autoimmunity, digestive disorders, and for some, obesity.

While we don’t need to cut out grains from our diet entirely they should be enjoyed in very limited amounts. Try to stick to smaller portions such as 1/2 a cup per meal and choose low glycemic grains such as quinoa or black rice.

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6. Save Sugar For Special Occasions

It’s easy to give in to a sugar craving. After just a few butes, before you know it you’ve indulged in a whole bag of candy.
While on the pegan diet, it isn’t recommended that you give up sugar entirely (that would be unrealistic), instead, it recommends you treat sugar as a treat.

This includes all forms of sugar. This is great because you can strike a healthy balance with your sugar intake rather than eliminating it from your diet altogether.

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7. Limit Legumes

Legumes are widely known as a great source of minerals, fiber, and plant protein. However, Hyman recommends consuming less than one cup of legumes per day. Overindulging in legumes could cause digestive issues and could spike blood sugar levels in diabetics.

If you are going to overindulge in legumes, stick to lentils and try to avoid big starchy beans. Find out some tasty ways to prepare legumes for lunch abd dinner with a quick search online.

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8. Treat Animal Products And meat As A Side Dish

Reducing your animal product and meat consumption is not only good for your health but great for the environment too! Raising animals for consumption require enormous amounts of food, energy, water, and land. Some studies show that animal agriculture may be responsible for more greenhouse gasses than our world’s transportation systems combined.

In addition to the environment, over-consuming meat could have a negative impact on our health. Recent studies have shown that meat could pose a health risk for colon cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. You don’t have to give up meat entirely while following the pegan diet, instead, vegetables should be the star of your plate and meat should be treated as a side dish or a condiment.

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9. Choose Grass Fed or Sustainably Raised Foods

As we discussed previously, the pegan diet doesn’t discourage meat consumption entirely. However, Hyman explains that if you’re going to consume meat that you should make sure it’s grass-fed or sustainably raised.

In addition, if you’re going to consume fish, ensure to look for fish that are low in mercury and other toxins. Some great examples are sardines, herring, and other small fish. However, Hyman recommends that we avoid tuna, swordfish, and Chilean sea bass.

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10. Say No to Chemicals and Franken-Foods

The vegan and paleo diet both agree that when choosing foods its good to stay away from franken-foods. This essentially means any foods that have chemicals, additives, dyes, preservatives, MSG (monosodium glutamate), and artificial sweeteners.

Further, you’ll also want to look for foods that are low in pesticides, hormones, antibiotics and choose little to no GMO foods. Pay a visit to the organic aisles of the grocery store and carefully read the labels to avoid franken-foods.

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11. Pancakes

A gradual transition into a new diet could be the key to success. Jumping into brand new foods, meals and other things you’re not used to it can be both intimidating and unenjoyable.

Instead, transform your favorites into foods that are tolerated on your new diet! These pancakes are grain-free, gluten-free, refined sugar-free, and definitely pegan diet approved! Better yet, the whole family will love them!

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12. Eggs Benedict With Asparagus on Portobello Mushroom

Perhaps you’re looking for a breakfast that is a little more gourmet. This eggs benedict breakfast is the perfect lazy Saturday morning breakfast and looks like it came straight from a restaurant.

Traditionally, eggs benny is made with English muffins, bacon, and poached eggs. While a few of those ingredients aren’t exactly pegan diet approved, this recipes proves that with a few substitutions you can indulge in your favorites effortlessly! A portabello mushroom takes place of the muffin, and asparagus provides a lovely crunch and flavor!

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13. Cookie Dough Bites

I don’t know about you, but when I have a sweet tooth craving, especially when it comes to snacking, I always crave chocolate chip cookies. A classic chocolate chip cookie recipe requires loads of sugar and other unhealthy ingredients.

These cookie dough bites could be the perfect snack to help you transition into your new diet. They’re gluten, sugar, dairy, and egg-free! But don’t worry, they have a lovely flavor that will have you wanting more.

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14. Cucumber Watermelon Salad

Leafy green salads can get old fast! To add some excitement into your diet try making this cucumber watermelon salad! It is so fresh and packs a ton of wonderful flavors.

What I love about this salad is that it’s simple yet the exciting flavors and textures will have you quite intrigued. Crisp cucumbers are paired with sweet watermelon and are complemented by soft avocado. Then, the salad is lightly seasoned with fresh basil, juice of a lime, and a drizzle of olive oil.

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15. Roasted Veg & Lentil Salad

In contrast, this roasted veggie and lentil salad contain savory flavors. Lentils are a great source of protein and as Hyman explained, if you’re going to consume legumes you’ll want it to be lentils!

In addition to lentils, this salad recipe is made up of roasted mushrooms, tomatoes, pepper, broccoli, and sweet potato. You’ll also make a delicious homemade (and healthy) salad dressing that adds an exquisite flavor. It’s a hearty meal that will definitely get you full and satisfied.

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16. Veggie Mushroom Burger

I get it, we’ve all craved a juicy cheeseburger at some time or other. Quench those cravings with a healthy and delicious veggie mushroom burger. These burgers pack a ton of flavor and the toppings make it even better!

Not only is this a meatless burger but it doesn’t contain any beans or grains! It’s a great way to add even more veggies into your day. The patties are made from mushrooms, caramelized red onions, almond flour, an egg and loads of seasonings that provide the wonderful flavor. A food processor will help them come together quickly!

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17. Cauliflower Walnut Taco Meat

Enjoy these pegan-approved tacos for Taco Tuesday and your family will go crazy for them! From the taco meat to the taco seasoning, everything is homemade! But don’t worry you can have this meal prepared in well under an hour and the flavors will be well worth it.

The taco meat is made up of roasted cauliflower, mushrooms, and walnuts. The seasoning brings out the flavor you know and love but doesn’t contain any preservatives or added sugars that a store-bought mix might have. If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, the taco meat will store well in the fridge for up to 5 days or 1 month in the freezer!

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18. Jackfruit BBQ Pizza With a Sweet Potato Crust

Pizza is adored by both children and adults alike. It’s great party food and great for lazy nights in but unfortunately a lot of store-bought or take-out pizzas contain sugary sauces and processed meats and cheese.

This jackfruit bbq pizza has loads of flavor and will surely quench your pizza craving. Before you scrunch your nose up at the word jackfruit, you’ll be quite impressed once you try it! It’s has a meaty/pulled pork texture that mimics meat perfectly! This pizza is vegan and paleo-friendly which means it is perfect for the pegan diet!

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19. Cranberry Bliss Bars

Cranberry bliss bars are one of Starbuck’s most sought after treats. However, a traditional cranberry bliss bar is made from enriched flour, loads of sugar, and other ingredients that aren’t pegan approved.

However, we understand that cutting sweet desserts out of your diet is not entirely realistic. Instead, copycat recipes like this are created so that we can indulge in those crave-worthy treats without the guilt! These bars are made from loads of wholesome ingredients you can feel good about.

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20. Caramel Cheesecake

Another excellent dessert option would be this caramel cheesecake. This is nothing like your traditional cheesecake recipe but the flavors are unreal!

This cheesecake is gluten-free and dairy-free. You might be asking yourself how can you create a cheesecake without dairy? It’s actually quite simple. Cashews are an excellent cheese substitute and will provide the cheesecake with a lovely creamy texture. In addition, the crust is made from Medjool dates, shredded coconut, and a couple of other ingredients. Lastly, the cheesecake is paired with a gorgeous homemade salted caramel sauce that is seriously drool-worthy.

The post The Pegan Diet: What It Is And Recipes To Get You Started appeared first on Forkly.

Beetroot, more commonly known as beets is a hearty vegetable that has been cultivated for thousands of years. Those who love beats may describe the flavor as hearty and rich while others think it tastes like, in simple words, dirt. It may take an acquired taste to love beets but after discovering their amazing health benefits you may just want to learn to love them.

Beets are packed full of important vitamins and minerals which is what gives them such powerful capabilities for our health. Some of these nutrients include iron, copper, magnesium, b vitamins, potassium and many others. We’ve researched what makes beets so special besides their stunning gem-like color. Read along to discover what they could do for you!

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1. They Can Aid In Heart Health

It’s important that we take care of our body especially the vital organs. Studies have shown that beets may do wonders for maintaining a healthy heart. Firstly, they contain betaine and folate, both of which can help lower blood levels of homocysteine. Maintaining a lower level of homocysteine is important because if too high, you could have a higher risk of artery damage as well as heart disease.

Secondly, a proper blood flow is highly important for maintaining a healthy heart. Some studies have shown that beetroot juice could help improve blood flow. This is due to the dietary source of nitrates beet juice has to offer. Keep your heart beating strong with this healthy vegetable.

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2. Can Help Maintain Healthy Blood Pressure

Maintaining your blood pressure goes hand in hand with encouraging a healthy lifestyle and a healthy heart. While high blood pressure is a common problem some say it could be managed by approaching it naturally such as with the foods we eat. This is, however, a serious medical condition so always consult your doctor prior to making any changes.

Beets can help lower your blood pressure because they’re high in nitrate. Our bodies take nitrate and will turn it into a gas called nitric oxide. This gas works by relaxing the muscles in our blood vessels and this, in turn, ensures that our arteries are properly dilated. Further, the gas also works by preventing our blood from thickening and clotting which promotes healthy blood flow and in the result, lowers blood pressure.

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3. Beets Boost Your Energy!

When the afternoon slump rolls around many of us reach for a cup of coffee, however, some healthy foods good give us just the boost we’ve been searching for. Studies have shown that beets can be great energy boosters, even for athletes who need the perfect boost to get through a serious workout.

Once again, thanks to nitrates, beets are a natural energy booster. Some studies have shown that nitrates improve the efficiency of mitochondria, this is what produces energy in our cells. Keep in mind to it could take 2-3 hours for blood nitrate levels to peak so consider sipping on freshly pressed beet juice or eat beets 2-3 hours before working out.

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4. They Can Encourage Weight Loss

Maintaining weight and losing weight can both be a difficult task especially when we’re surrounded by so many appealing but unhealthy foods. Recent studies have shown that beets could help encourage weight loss for a couple of reasons.

Firstly, they’re extremely low in calories, just one cup of beets is a total of 50 calories. Secondly, they’re high in soluble and insoluble fiber which helps us to feel full for longer. Last but certainly not least, beets are high in magnesium which could encourage detoxification within the body as well as increase our metabolism.

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5. Beets May Increase Immunity

Changing seasons can both be exhilarating and daunting. Often, seasonal changes can bring the common cold. To help boost your immunity to fight off something such as the common cold you may want to consider eating more beets.

Like many vegetables, beets are very nutrient dense. They contain Vitamin C, B-complex and loads of antioxidants, all of which help to relieve minor aches and pains as well as prevent fatigue. All of these healthy nutrients could seriously boost your immunity to help fight off the common cold and fevers.

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6. They’re A Great Source of Fiber

Having a healthy dose of fiber in your daily diet is important for several reasons. It could encourage weight loss, it could lower blood sugar levels as well as fight unwanted constipation. Generally, it is recommended that the average woman intakes around 25 grams of fiber a day and around 38 grams for men. One cup of beets contains almost 4 grams of fiber would be a great addition to your daily intake.

Further, beets happen to contain both soluble and insoluble fiber which does a lot for our body. For example, soluble fiber could help lower cholesterol while insoluble fiber could help prevent constipation. Lastly, a diet that is thriving with fiber could also help prevent chronic diseases. All in all, it is clear that fiber is extremely important.

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7. They Help Promote Healthy Digestion

A beets fiber content is what makes it an excellent food for promoting healthy digestion. Some symptoms of an unhealthy gut include chronic bad breath, mood swings, skin problems, and digestive issues like bloating or chronic constipation. All of these qualities can add up to make one quite miserable. In an attempt to help avoid these symptoms you could try adding beets to your diet.

Furthermore, we have to thank not just the fiber content found in beets but also betaine which can also help reduce the risk of developing hemorrhoids and constipation. A happy digestive system could lead to a happier you!

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8. They Can Prevent Anemia

Anemia is a condition that can occur if your blood lacks healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is a red protein that has the duty of transporting oxygen in the blood vertebrates. If your hemoglobin is low or abnormal and or there are not enough or abnormal red blood cells then the cells in your body won’t get enough oxygen.

Consuming beets more regularly could help prevent anemia because red beets have a high amount of iron. Iron has an important duty of regenerating red blood cells as well as preventing anemia. Beets are also rich in vitamin C and some studies show that this vitamin could help boost iron absorption.

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9. Beets Benefit Your Liver

The liver is a vital organ that is in charge of filtering blood that flows through the digestive tract before it passes through the rest of the body. It’s capable of deciphering what is good for us and what is consider waste. The liver has quite a big job and eating more foods to help with this process could benefit you.

Firstly, due to being high in antioxidants and many other nutrients allows the beet to a have powerful cleansing and detoxing capabilities. Some of these include betalains which are pigments with heightened anti-inflammatory properties that encourage detoxification, betaine encourages the liver cells to eliminate toxins and pectin is a fiber that can diminish toxins that have been removed from the liver.

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10. They Can Help Maintain A Healthy Brain

Aging can take a serious toll on our brain. This becomes more evident when the simple forgotten tasks become a regular thing. To help keep your brain and cognitive function nice and healthy you may want to consider consuming beets more regularly.

It is known that with age, the blood flow to our brain decreases which is part of the reason for decreased cognitive function and some studies say that eating beets could help prevent that. Further, due to nitrates found in beets, makes them an excellent food to improve brain neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to change and adapt.

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11. Beets Help With Anti-Aging

A healthy brain is definitely linked to feeling younger and healthy which we talked about previously but beets can do more anti-aging wonders too. Beets are high in folate which can stimulate the production and repair of cells both of which can help prevent premature aging.

Furthermore, a healthy dose of folate in your diet could help fight off unwanted wrinkles and other poor skin conditions. Along with folate, beets are also a great source of vitamin A which could help prevent age-related vision loss. If you spend a lot of money on anti-aging skin care remedies then you may want to try saving some money and simply add more beets to your diet.

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12. They Are Rich In Antioxidants

A diet rich in antioxidants is also important to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Studies have shown that antioxidants can help fight off harmful free radicals as well as could prevent oxidative stress and damage to the cells in our body. Further, some studies also believe that antioxidants could prevent several types of chronic diseases.

Beets are thriving in antioxidants which is another great reason why we should have them more frequently. To be specific, beets are rich in phytonutrients called betalains and this is what gives beets their powerful antioxidant properties. It is also was is in charge of giving beets their deep color.

The post Why You Should Be Eating Beets appeared first on Forkly.

Chia seeds come from the plant Salvia Hispanica and are known for their tiny black seed appearance. Chia seeds have been consumed for many years. They were considered a prized food for the Mayans and Aztecs because of their powerful abilities. Back then they often relied on chia seeds as a source of sustainable energy. The word chia actually means strength according to the ancient Mayan language and there is no wonder why today we consider it a powerhouse food. We’re going to dig into their incredible health benefits and what these tiny yet powerful seeds can do for you. Once you get inspired by how they can benefit you, you’ll most likely want to start adding them to your diet every day. There is no need to worry because we got you covered there too, check out some delicious recipes HERE.

1. Fiber

A diet that lacks fiber has a higher risk of chronic constipation, high cholesterol, diabetes and even heart disease. Fiber is important because it can help regulate our bowels, can speed up the movement of food digestion through our intestines and it also provides fuel for good bacteria that is in our large intestines. These factors all play an important part in maintaining a healthy body.

Chia seeds happen to be an excellent source of fiber which is a big reason as to why it would be a good idea to start incorporating them into your diet more often. For just 1 ounce serving, chia seeds offer 11 grams of fiber and depending on your gender and your age that could be anywhere from 35-50% of your daily recommended value.

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2. Could Encourage Weightloss

If you’re looking to cut a few pounds or are trying to maintain your weight you might want to start adding chia seeds to your everyday diet. Due to their fiber content that we talked about previously, makes them a great contender in helping to aid weight loss.

Some studies have shown that diets that are rich in fiber help you to stay fuller longer which means you’ll most likely consume fewer calories and in result could help with weight loss. There isn’t a lot of concrete science yet proving that chia seeds will make you lose weight, however, considering they’re easy to consume in many different recipes and offer many health benefits it definitely wouldn’t hurt to try.

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3. Loaded With Antioxidants

Our body can produce a few antioxidants on its own which help to ward off on-going oxidative damage in our bodies. However, our bodies are also exposed to many free radicals from factors such as our environment. This is why consuming more antioxidants in our diet would be a wise choice.

Chia seeds happen to be thriving with antioxidants. They can help protect our cells from free radicals which could put you at a lower risk of cancer and metabolic disorders. You could even add chia seeds to an antioxidant-rich fruit like blueberries for a delicious and nutrient-dense smoothie.

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4. Anti-Inflammatory And Could Help Your Joints

Dealing with inflamed joints and muscles can be an utter nuisance and not to mention for some, can be quite painful. To help with inflammation in the body you may want to start consuming chia seeds more regularly.

Chia seeds are awesome anti-inflammatory foods because they have a ratio 3:1 of Omega 3’s to Omega 6’s. This is favorable because omega 3’s can help reduce inflammation whereas Omega 6’s could increase inflammation. So consuming a food that is higher in Omega 3’s than 6’s could help keep that inflammation away. Furthermore, their antioxidant content that we talked about previously also contributes to their anti-inflammatory responses in your body even further.

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5. Boost Your Energy

If we’re feeling lethargic we often reach for a cup of coffee, tea or an energy drink. However, you could reach for chia seeds and they could actually give you the energy you need too.

Some believe chia seeds could enhance your exercise performance and would be a great healthy and natural sports drink. To do this you’d want to mix your chia seeds with coconut water. The reason for this is because coconut water is one of the richest natural sources of electrolytes.

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6. Excellent Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are a crucial part of a healthy diet. They can help promote a healthy brain and body by fighting off poor moods, maintaining eye health, could fight off inflammation and many other great benefits. There is no wonder why so many professionals are recommending more omega-3s into our diet.

Chia seeds are actually packed with omega-3 fatty acids and would be a great and easy way to consume more of it. You can also find omega 3 in foods like salmon but when comparing the two gram for gram, chia seeds contain more.

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7. Could Help Diabetics

Diabetes occurs when the bodies ability to respond or produce the hormone insulin is impaired. Chia seeds may not be able to cure diabetes but they could help a diabetic control their blood sugar and protect the heart.

Some recent studies show that chia seeds could help improve glucose and insulin intolerance. In addition to, many diabetics want to lower triglycerides and raise HDL cholesterol levels (a.k.a. the good cholesterol) and some studies show that chia seeds can help with that too. However, if you are diabetic, it is extremely important to discuss dietary changes with your Doctor first.

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8. Improve Digestion

No one likes poor digestion. The feeling of bloating or constipation is an utter nightmare and can really ruin your day. To help regulate your digestion you’ll want to ensure you include chia seeds regularly into your diet.

Chia seeds are so powerful for the digestion because of their source of magnesium. Our muscles use magnesium to boost contractions and in turn, helps promote bowel regularity. Chia seeds also form a gel-like substance when combined with a liquid and when this runs through our digestive tract it can act like a cleanse and gives our colon, in nicer words, a makeover.

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9. Anti-aging

Chia seeds are a powerhouse food indeed, especially when it comes to the beauty department. First, chia seeds contain essential amino acids and that combined with their source of protein and sulfur help promote healthy long hair. Second, chia seeds have been known to help fight off blemishes and acne. Thirdly, Zinc is what can help fight off bacteria and omega 3’s can encourage hydration in the skin.

Furthermore, chia seeds also offer a generous dose of B vitamins. These vitamins are important for fighting off free radicals that can promote aging. They may not prevent aging from happening because that is inevitable but they surely could try and help you age more slowly and gracefully.

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10. Strengthen Bones And Teeth

We talked about how chia seeds have anti-aging properties but another aspect of developing and aging is maintaining healthy bones and teeth. This is all thanks to the calcium nutrient that chia seeds have to offer.

Calcium is vital for our bone health but also to help our muscles to contract properly, to keep our heart beating healthily and to enable blood clotting. Some studies show that if you compare chia seeds gram for gram with several dairy products chia seeds have a much higher calcium content.  This also offers an excellent alternative to those who have dairy allergies or choose to live a plant-based lifestyle.

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11. Great Source of Protein

Protein is an important part of a healthy diet. We need protein to help build and repair our body tissues. It is also used to help make hormones, enzymes and many other natural occurring body chemicals. In addition, protein is the foundation of our muscles, bones, cartilage, skin and our blood.

Chia seeds also happen to be a great source of protein. Roughly two tablespoons of chia seeds can yield 4 grams of protein. To put that into perspective a single egg contains 6 grams of protein so if you’re vegan or looking to cut back on your morning eggs chia seeds would be an excellent replacement. You could also use chia seeds as an egg replacer in many recipes, how cool is that! Bottom line if you’re looking for more ways to include healthy proteins whether you follow a plant-based diet or not, chia seeds would make an excellent choice.

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12. Rich In Vitamins And Minerals

It’s quite common for the average person to take vitamin or mineral supplements to help achieve the daily recommended amount. Some foods, like chia seeds, have a healthy profile offering quite a few vitamins and minerals. They’re well known for being high in calcium but they’re also high in a mineral called magnesium. Studies show that magnesium can encourage calcium absorption and in result can help support a healthy nervous system and bones.

Following, you can also find copper, phosphorus, iron, and zinc in chia seeds. Lastly, the vitamins that encourage healthy nails and hair such as vitamin B2, vitamin B12, niacin, and thiamin can also be found in chia seeds. They may not offer us every single vitamin and mineral our body needs but they sure do have quite a lot to offer.

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