all things food
‘Tis the season for giving! Luckily, giving goes in hand with receiving with a holiday cookie exchange. This cookie swap has become a popular and convenient way to bake up a batch of your favorite Christmas cookies for sharing—and to come home with a sweet variety. We know Santa would give a jolly “ho-ho-ho!” if […]
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‘Tis the season for giving! Luckily, giving goes in hand with receiving with a holiday cookie exchange. This cookie swap has become a popular and convenient way to bake up a batch of your favorite Christmas cookies for sharing—and to come home with a sweet variety.
We know Santa would give a jolly “ho-ho-ho!” if these eight festive cookie recipes made the cookie cut at your holiday cookie exchange… Continue reading "12 Sweet Christmas Cookie Exchange Recipes"
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 […]
The post Crock Pot Recipes To Get You Excited For Fall 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.
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.
The Rogue Brussel Sprout / Shutterstock
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.
Aimee Lee Studios / Shutterstock
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.
Brent Hofacker / Shutterstock
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.
istetiana / Shutterstock
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.
Marie C Fields / Shutterstock
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.
iyd39 / Shutterstock
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.
Brent Hofacker / Shutterstock
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.
JeniFoto / Shutterstock
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.
Edward Fielding / Shutterstock
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.
Brent Hofacker / Shutterstock
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.
Brent Hofacker / Shutterstock
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.
Slawomir Fajer / Shutterstock
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.
Brent Hofacker / Shutterstock
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.
Timolina / Shutterstock
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.
Dulin / Shutterstock
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.
pilipphoto / Shutterstock
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.
Elena Shashkina / Shutterstock
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.
Elena Veselova / Shutterstock
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.
Urban Nature / Shutterstock
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.
Nataliya Arzamasova / Shutterstock
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.
Stephanie Frey / Shutterstock
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.
Oksana Mizina / Shutterstock
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Savory soup recipes made effortlessly in a slow cooker!
The post Easy Slow Cooker Soup Recipes 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!
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.
Irina Mos / Shutterstock
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.
Elena Veselova / Shutterstock
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.
Foodio / Shutterstock
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.
eClick / Shutterstock
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.
Elena Veselova / Shutterstock
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.
Olga Nayashkova / Shutterstock
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.
Ezume Images / Shutterstock
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.
Olga Markova / Shutterstock
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!
Brent Hofacker / Shutterstock
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!
Slawomir Fajer / Shutterstock
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.
Brent Hofacker / Shutterstock
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.
Elena Shashkina / Shutterstock
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.
Olga Nayashkova / Shutterstock
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.
Elena Shashkina / Shutterstock
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.
Foodio / Shutterstock
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.
JoannaTkaczuk / Shutterstock
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.
Charles Brutlag / Shutterstock
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.
Billion Photos / Shutterstock
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.
AS Food studio / Shutterstock
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.
Ezume Images / Shutterstock
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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 […]
The post Easy Weeknight Meals: Great Recipes in 30 Minutes or Less 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!
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.
Shutterstock/gkrphoto
Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 18 min
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.
Shutterstock/NADKI
Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 8 min
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.
Shutterstock/Elena Shashkina
Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 20 min
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
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.
Shutterstock/AS Food studio
Prep time: 15 min, Cook Time: 15 min
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.
Shutterstock/Ezume Images
Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 20 min
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.
Shutterstock/Brent Hofacker
Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 20 min
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
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!
Shutterstock/James Stiles Photography
Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 15 min
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
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.
Shutterstock/Ezume Images
Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 15 min
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
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.
Shutterstock/Sea Wave
Prep time: 5 min, Cook Time: 15 min
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.
Shutterstock/Brent Hofacker
Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 20min
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
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!
Shutterstock/Elena Shashkina
Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 15 min
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.
Shutterstock/Timolina
Prep time: 15 min, Cook Time: 0 min
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
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.
Shutterstock/janosmarton
Prep time: 2 min, Cook Time: 10 min
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.
Shutterstock/AS Food studio
Prep time: 20 min, Cook Time: 10 min
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
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.
Shutterstock/PosiNote
Prep time: 5 min, Cook Time: 15 min
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.
Shutterstock/Teri Virbickis
Prep time: 16 min, Cook Time: 14 min
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
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.
Shutterstock/Brent Hofacker
Prep time: 20 min, Cook Time: 10 min
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.
Shutterstock/Ezume Images
Prep time: 10 min, Cook Time: 20 min
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
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.
Shutterstock/from my point of view
Prep time: 5 min, Cook Time: 25 min
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.
Turmeric is known for its vibrant canary yellow color and vibrant flavor that has been complimenting curry dishes for ages. It is also favorable because it is known as a natural medicine, traditionally in Chinese Medicine and the Indian system of medicine. Turmeric contains a lot of health benefits like being able to treat cuts and […]
The post Reasons You Should Be Having Turmeric Everyday appeared first on Forkly.
Turmeric is known for its vibrant canary yellow color and vibrant flavor that has been complimenting curry dishes for ages. It is also favorable because it is known as a natural medicine, traditionally in Chinese Medicine and the Indian system of medicine.
Turmeric contains a lot of health benefits like being able to treat cuts and wounds as well as help heal boils on the skin. It is believed that turmeric can also help preserve the youthfulness of the skin and help prevent acne. Turmeric is available everywhere as they can be grown in almost any climate. Although it generally prefers a warmer climate if you have the proper know-how and attention you can grow them too. We have discovered 12 reasons why you should be incorporating turmeric into your diet.
Turmeric does wonders for our digestive systems because it can stimulate the gallbladder which then releases bile. The bile then helps our bodies break down the food we eat all the while helping our bodies absorb fats and certain nutrients. This is certainly enough reason to add a spoonful of turmeric to your meals!
Following, turmeric has also demonstrated to be an excellent gas reliever. There is nothing worse than trying to enjoy your day or evening and then get hit with the feeling of being bloated. Recent studies have shown that turmeric helps calm the digestive system which, in turn, helps relieve gas.
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Turmeric is also a great ingredient for anti-inflammatory benefits. A recent study has shown nearly 1.4 million Americans are affected by inflammatory bowel disease. Two main types of this disease include Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Depending on your condition, turmeric could help alleviate some inflammation naturally alongside your regular treatments.
So, why is turmeric helpful in combatting inflammation? That’s because it contains an important compound called curcumin which is the main active ingredient found within. It has powerful anti-inflammatory effects as well as being an excellent antioxidant. Consider discussing the benefits of turmeric with your doctor if you’re dealing with inflammatory symptoms.
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Our liver is a very important organ that stores extra nutrients, helps get rid of toxic substances, manufactures our blood proteins as well as stores blood glucose and produces cholesterol. Clearly, our liver is a vital organ that we really need to take care of.
When it comes to turmeric that powerful compound we talked about early, curcumin plays an active role here. It has a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory which both help improve the function of the liver. It has also been shown to help prevent liver cirrhosis (a condition in which the liver does not function properly due to long-term damage).
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There are several types of wounds such as small open wounds, closed wounds and open bleeding wounds. If you find yourself with an open bleeding wound make sure to seek medical treatment immediately to prevent blood loss or infection.
If you have a small wound like an abrasion or puncture using at home treatments and remedies may be suited. Tumeric can often be used as an antiseptic when helping heal a wound by using turmeric paste covered with cotton cloth. It can often be used in place of over the counter ointments. Once again the active compound, curcumin found in turmeric has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties all contributing to making it an excellent choice for a natural antiseptic.
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It is not proven that turmeric can cure Alzheimer’s disease but there are several studies that show it may help to prevent it. Key roles that are contributors to Alzheimer’s disease are oxidative damage and inflammation. Turmeric may help relieve oxidative damage in the brain and reduce inflammation
Another feature of Alzheimer’s disease is a buildup of protein plaques. It turns out that turmeric has been shown in some studies to help clear these as well. While we don’t know If consuming turmeric daily can definitely help prevent Alzheimer’s disease, it’s certainly worth a shot. Try implementing it into your snacks and meals at least once day.
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The next time you have minor aches and pains such as sprains or joint pain, consider trying a natural remedy before you reach for your bottle of Tylenol or Ibuprofen. Not only does turmeric give your dishes a rich distinct flavor but it can help aid your minor aches. It works by its anti-inflammatory agents that help relieve minor pains.
You don’t need to eat turmeric in its powder form by the spoonful, but instead, consider adding it to your dishes as a seasoning to still achieve the helpful benefits it has to offer. You can even buy turmeric in a supplement form if you do not prefer the taste.
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There are so many weight loss programs and supplements out there that it can be easy to forget about many natural ingredients that can actually help our bodies. Tumeric would be one of those ingredients that can help manage your weight for a multitude of reasons. It’s worth adding to your diet if weight loss is one of your health goals.
Recent studies have shown that turmeric is a triple threat. It can help prevent fat accumulation, can help accelerate diet-induced weight loss, and it can help our bodies regulate our metabolism. Consider adding turmeric to your everyday diet when you are trying to manage your weight.
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Depression is a very serious and unfortunately a common condition in the present day. Many factors such as an unhealthy lifestyle, low social support and living chaotic lives can play as contributors to depression.
Furthermore, inflammation can be present in depression from contributors such as lack of sleep, vitamin D deficiency, smoking, poor diet and even lack of physical activity. As we have discovered previously turmeric may be a good choice when choosing an anti-inflammatory agent to consume if experiencing depression. You can purchase it in a supplement form at your local drug store or can even add it into your meals as a seasoning. Make sure to speak to your doctor if any symptoms of depression arise and consider talking to your talking about the benefits of turmeric when discussing anti-depressants.
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If you haven’t experienced psoriasis, it is a noncontagious skin condition that causes buildup on the skin. Some symptoms include red scaly patches, itchy skin, burning skin as well as swollen joints and stiffness. Since there is no cure for this skin disease, treatments are necessary to lower the severity and frequency of outbreaks.
Curcumin found in turmeric is a powerful agent in this case. Recent studies have shown that turmeric can help relieve the symptoms of psoriasis. Not only can you consume the spice in your meals and through supplements but you can also purchase it as a tea or consider making your own tea.
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There is nothing worse than planning an event and have a major break out prior to that event. We may be spending a lot more money of ance preventatives than we like to admit but I don’t blame you, we like clear blemish free skin. The next time you’re trying to find a remedy to help prevent acne consider turmeric.
As discussed before curcumin, that superpower agent found in turmeric is again the hero in this case. It can help reduce redness from acne as well as contains powerful antimicrobial properties. However, consuming turmeric daily will give better results for your acne rather than rubbing turmeric paste onto your skin. Once again, when in doubt always consult your doctor.
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When the cooler months hit, the seasons change, and school starts back up that is when our immune systems are tested. It’s important to work towards a healthier and stronger immune system daily so that when those events happen in our lives you don’t get hit hard with a sinus infection or worse, the flu.
Turmeric has been shown to help boost your immune system through the amazing qualities we discovered earlier such as the anti-microbial properties, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant properties. These all work to help boost our white blood cell count (these are the blood cells that help fight off bacteria), it can help encourage our metabolisms, it can help us get a good nights sleep, and can detoxify our bodies. All of these play important roles when building a strong immune system.
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As I get older and have little moments of forgetfulness or loss of my mathematical skills, I’m always looking for ways to make my brain sharper. Practicing math, reading books are a few ways to keep your brain sharp. However, recent studies show that consuming turmeric daily may just help increase your brain function as well.
Curcumin, the compound in turmeric, nourishes and protects the brain in a variety of different ways. It can help increase blood flow to the brain to improve memory and concentration as well as increase neuroplasticity (your brain’s ability to change and grow throughout your lifetime). There are large varieties of benefits that turmeric can help contribute to improving the brain, it might be a good idea to consider consuming turmeric daily.
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If you are seeking inspiration on how to incorporate turmeric into your diet every day you can visit HERE for some amazing turmeric recipes that are more than just curry dishes.
The post Reasons You Should Be Having Turmeric Everyday appeared first on Forkly.
A lot of us make a huge effort to make sure the content of our cupboards and kitchens reflect the lifestyle we want to live and the healthy bodies we want to achieve. Unfortunately, thanks to marketing and a variety of mixed messages about food, it can get a little confusing about what is actually […]
The post “Healthy” Foods That Are Actually Bad For You appeared first on Forkly.
A lot of us make a huge effort to make sure the content of our cupboards and kitchens reflect the lifestyle we want to live and the healthy bodies we want to achieve. Unfortunately, thanks to marketing and a variety of mixed messages about food, it can get a little confusing about what is actually good for us. To make things easier, we’ve discovered twenty foods that are easily misunderstood to be healthy, when really, they are far from it!
It seems that the marketing for a variety of cereals has you exactly where they want you. Using health-friendly words, without being actually healthy. Yet, so many sugary cereal boxes have that “health” checkmark.
White there may be a few whole grains in a cereal it simply does not make up for the fact that it is often coated with sugar, frosting or even mixed with marshmallows. Skip these cereals and try something more wholesome such as oatmeal, or a shredded wheat cereal.
Dried fruit is not only colorful and attractive, but it is extremely tasty too. In fact, many people will enjoy this snack in the place of dessert.
Unfortunately, you may as well be eating a cookie because dried fruit has about three times the amount of sugar in it because it is condensed. Therefore, you will find yourself eating multiple pieces of dried fruit and getting piles of grams of sugar and calories.
Fruit Cocktail is an easy canned item you can have on your shelf when you are looking for a juicy treat and have run out of fresh produce. Filled with peaches, pineapples, and cherries, it’s no wonder people think it’s a healthy choice.
This is the part where you get disappointed. The syrup that is used to preserve the fruit actually contains an entire day worth of sugar. This doesn’t seem so delicious anymore, now, does it?
When you want a salad, we all know the most fattening part of it is the dressing. Selecting a low-calorie version of ranch dressing or Italian dressing seems like a healthy choice.
In reality, companies are using piles of additives to maintain the flavor while ensuring the calories are cut down. These additives are detrimental to your body, so you are much better off using some olive oil and vinegar (balsamic, red wine etc.) to top your salad and give your body some good fat instead!
If you’re in a hurry and need a quick snack, selecting a low-fat muffin is an easy snack to eat on the fly. Coming in a variety of flavors and recipes, these muffins are definitely delicious.
The truth is if companies are reducing the fat, they need to make up for the lack of taste. This is where sugar comes in. They amp up how much sugar is added so you can feel good about eating less fat but maintaining the same great flavor. Unfortunately, we all know, sugar is no better than fat. It’s a lose-lose situation.
The same story applies to light or low-fat peanut butter. Since we know that in most cases when something is removed, must be replaced to maintain flavor. Surprisingly enough, in the case of peanut butter, full-fat is a much better option.
Peanut butter is ripe with monounsaturated fats that are great for our bodies, so when we read how much fat is in the peanut butter (excluding saturated fat) we can be confident that we are eating fats our body truly needs, removing those healthy fats and replacing them with more carbs and sugar isn’t exactly the road to good health.
Probiotic and greek yogurt are fantastic snacks, but there’s a catch. Sometimes there’s so much added to the yogurt that the nutritional benefits get lost in the mix.
The best thing you can do is buy low-fat, plain yogurt and make additions to it yourself. This way, you have control over how much sugar your body is taking in, which fruits and flavors you’d like to have, and in return, you’re saving yourself from digesting 10+ grams of sugar you didn’t necessarily want.
Spinach pasta is the same old story of additives wreaking havoc on something that was supposed to be a good thing. While it may be bright green, there are not many antioxidants here!
Spinach Pasta should just be called pasta because there’s so little spinach in the noodles. There’s certainly not enough spinach for you to reap the benefits in one serving either.
While the word “diet” is often on the front of the bottles of sugar-free soda, it’s really just a marketing tactic. It’s meant to confuse you into thinking that swapping out a full-sugar soda for a diet sugar-free variety, is a step in a healthier direction. When perhaps, it’s doing more harm than good.
As with many other foods, when you subtract the primary source of flavor, you need to replace it with alternative ingredients which require a lot of additives to bring the flavor back. In the case of diet sodas, that’s in the form of unhealthy artificial sweeteners. A great alternative to diet sodas is sipping on carbonated water, and add in your favorite fruits for flavor!
Juice in the morning seems like a really straightforward option for most families. The catch is, you have to make sure that there are no added ingredients. Look for the 100% pure orange juice if you absolutely need juice in the morning.
The problem with fruit juice is, even if you buy the 100% pure juice, it is still packed with sugar. Many think that if it’s natural sugar it’s no problem, but the truth is, sugar is sugar! If you buy the stuff that has added sugar, you are getting a double whammy of sugar that you don’t need. A better way to approach you morning drink is by adding a few tablespoons of 100% pure juice to the bottom of your glass, then fill with water. You still get the orange juice taste without all those unneeded grams of sugar.
This is the same age-old story we hear all the time. Let’s get something straight, just because a snack bar is advertised as a protein bar and is loaded with protein, that does not mean it’s a healthy choice!
While many protein bars are actually ok for your health, many are just candy bars marketed to make you think it’s a healthy choice! Make sure you’re reading your labels to stay informed, or try eating natural sources of protein such as lean meat, hummus, milk, and nuts which are way better options and only have a fraction of the sugar and calories.
Much like diet soda or protein bars, frozen yogurt has a reputation for being a healthy dessert you can enjoy in large quantities, without a worry. Unfortunately, this is simply not the case. While “froyo” may be lower fat compared to ice cream, it is still packed with sugar and calories just like any other dessert. Not to mention all those fun toppings we tend to add on.
If you are looking to enjoy a healthy dessert, blending up a frozen banana with some dark chocolate chips and strawberries is a great alternative, it’s a surprisingly sweet treat!
When you have to eat at a fast food restaurant, opting for a salad may seem like a healthy option, and sometimes, it can be! The problem with fast food salads is how quickly the ingredients add up to calories. If you order a chicken salad with breaded chicken and use a package a creamy dressing over your bacon bits and shredded cheese, suddenly, your salad is basically the same amount of calories and fat as a hamburger!
With some healthy suggestions, you can make this healthy option a success. Make sure you asked for grilled chicken as opposed to crispy as your protein, and either enjoy without salad dressing or just use half a packet of dressing.
Agave nectar has earned itself a place in the health food world as a great alternative to regular sugar. Unfortunately, it does not deserve this place among other sweeteners such as maple syrup, simply because of what it actually is made up of.
Regular sugar contains about 50% fructose which is the stuff we are really trying to avoid. It messes with your metabolism and is a threat to your overall health. Believe it or not, agave nectar is actually between 70-90% fructose, making it even worse for you than regular sugar.
The word “organic” is plastered on the front of a huge amount of food in the grocery store now. Marketers are making the word “organic” synonymous with the word “healthy”. For a lot of people, it’s paying off! There’s a huge group of people buying into this marketing technique and are being sadly misguided.
Just because a food says organic, does not mean it is healthy in the least. Sure, the products may not have pesticides on them, but at the end of the day, it’s the same ingredients that you would find in a regular bag of chips or bag of candy. The same goes for the nutritional facts – fat, calories, and other additives are still very present in these organic foods.
When you’re looking to skip some calories and fat, opting for a veggie burger may seem like a very logical option. A great tip for selecting foods is opting for the more “pure” item on the menu. Which food has the least amount of additives and ingredients? This is where many times, the veggie burger fails.
A beef or chicken burger is often a combination of meats and spices. A veggie burger will often have spices and a wide variety of ingredients that are both pure and “filler” additives. To make a veggie burger taste good, you need to add a fair amount of additives. As a result, you may end up eating more calories and additives than if you just ordered the beef burger.
This item on our list is a little more complicated than the average “healthy” item that really isn’t all that healthy. One way to check and see how healthy your margarine is by seeing how solid it is. If your margarine is as hard as butter, it’s not a good option. If you buy one that has olive or avocado oil in it, it will be soft and creamy – that’s the stuff you want!
Some kinds of margarine are a good option when you are looking for a spread that is a healthier option to butter. Butter is made from animal fat and therefore has a higher content of trans fat. If you can get a trans fat free margarine made from olive oil or another plant-based oil, it’s a great spread for your toast. The problem lies in margarine that has trans fat anyway, plus a lot of additives. In that case, sticking with butter is a better option.
They’re visually stunning and also are technically foods that are healthy, so what makes them such a problem? The best way to get a healthy chip option is by making them yourself. Then you get to control how much oil and salt is added, and they can be baked instead of fried.
No matter what kinds of root vegetables are in your packaged veggie chips, the nutrients are often lost among the oils, salts, additives and possible frying. By the time they are packaged, these chips have a ton of calories and fat, just like regular chips!
Beans are known as a fantastic food to eat for protein and fiber, especially for vegetarians. When eating baked beans, be sure to read the nutrition facts so you know exactly what you are eating. If you enjoy cooking, try your hand at making your own baked beans so you can monitor exactly what’s put into them.
Baked beans are not as healthy as consumers may think, because they are canned. This results in high sodium content, often high sugar and lots of additives. Selecting an organic, low sodium can of baked beans is a great solution to this problem.
Much like many of the advertised prepackaged health foods, frozen diet dinners aren’t worth the money and aren’t worth the time saved from cooking. Making pre-portioned meals at home is a fantastic way to have healthy meals available quickly when you need them.
Frozen diet dinners are often advertised as wholesome meals with lots of health benefits. The problem is, many of them are packed with additives and preservatives so they can still taste fresh even when they are not. When you’re looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle, having a bowl of food packed with extra ingredients is definitely not worth it.
The post “Healthy” Foods That Are Actually Bad For You appeared first on Forkly.
If there’s one type of food we can all get on board with, it’s Mexican food! It’s irresistibly delicious and never fails to deliver a unique flavor. But we often get stuck on tacos, fajitas, and burritos while forgetting that there are so many more ways to enjoy this cuisine. Our Low Carb Taco Soup is a fantastic […]
The post Instant Pot Low Carb Taco Soup appeared first on Forkly.
If there’s one type of food we can all get on board with, it’s Mexican food! It’s irresistibly delicious and never fails to deliver a unique flavor. But we often get stuck on tacos, fajitas, and burritos while forgetting that there are so many more ways to enjoy this cuisine.
Our Low Carb Taco Soup is a fantastic option for those who are on a low carb or Keto diet and want to still appreciate and experience the joy (yes, it sparks joy for us) that comes with Mexican food. Top it off with guacamole, sour cream and cheese for added flavor. Let’s get cooking!
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One of the most unique aspects of the Instant Pot that sets it apart from a slow cooker or even an old school pressure cooker is the Sauté setting. This setting gives you the ability to sauté certain parts of your meal before pressure cooking it with the rest of the ingredients.
For this recipe, we started by sautéing the onions and garlic in some olive oil. This helps bring out the flavors while also softening and slightly caramelizing the onions. Instead of biting into a semi-crunchy onion (gross!), cooking the onions this way will make them almost non-existent without losing that good onion-y flavor.
This is a true comfort meal, perfect for colder weather where you need a bit of a warm-up. It’s hearty and packed with spice, but the best part is how quickly it comes together in the Instant Pot. Soups often take at least an hour or so on the stovetop to deepen the flavor, but pressure cooking has the same outcome in a small fraction of the time – this soup only cooks for 5 minutes! When you’re planning your dinner, just remember that the pot needs time to come to pressure. It took our 6 Quart Instant Pot Duo around 15 minutes to come to pressure, but this will vary depending on the model and size you’re using.
It’s important to remember that this recipe is exactly what we say it is – a soup! It will not come out like a burrito bowl or a taco stew, it is a true soup recipe. With that said, serving some nacho chips alongside this meal for those family members who are eating carbs, is a great way to bulk up the meal and really make it a fiesta!
If you want to get extra creative, you can chop up some fresh veggies and add them on top for garnish. If you’re following a strict Keto diet and need to up the fat content more, slice up some avocado to garnish the soup with, increase the cheese from 1 to 1 1/2 cups or more, and use full-fat sour cream for serving.
This recipe is also a fantastic way to add veggies into your child’s diet (or your own!) without them realizing! If they are really opposed to veggies, dice them up finely and saute them so they get extra soft and blend in with all the other ingredients. Additionally, some kiddos may find this recipe a little spicy, so you can adjust the seasonings accordingly or add some sour cream on top to cut the spice!
You can omit the chili powder, cumin, and paprika and replace with a package of store-bought taco seasoning, if desired.
If you’re following a Keto diet, ensure you check the carbs in the diced tomatoes as they will differ significantly across brands and depending on the pre-mixed seasonings. We used Primo Unseasoned Diced Tomatoes that have 4 grams per half cup – the lowest we could find at our local grocery store.
If you’re following a strict Keto diet and want to up the fat content, garnish with sliced avocado and full-fat sour cream. You can also increase the cheese from 1 cup to 1 1/2 cups and garnish with more.
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Christmas dinner is the highlight of the holiday season. Every family has their own traditional meal. Most in the United States have the big turkey dinner with all the fixings. Some also make a holiday ham with their turkey to feed all their guests. Some people go untraditional and instead make lamb or a fish […]
The post 12 Easy Christmas Dinner Recipes appeared first on Forkly.
Christmas dinner is the highlight of the holiday season. Every family has their own traditional meal. Most in the United States have the big turkey dinner with all the fixings. Some also make a holiday ham with their turkey to feed all their guests. Some people go untraditional and instead make lamb or a fish dish.
Whatever your preference, we’ve rounded up a list of 12 easy meals you can make this upcoming holiday season. We included both traditional and non-traditional mains, as well as a few add-ons such as a recipe for delicious homemade gravy. Follow along for 12 easy Christmas dinner recipes that you can make this year.
Warm, cheesy and filled with flavor, lasagna is another great and easy option for your upcoming holiday dinner. This one takes 45 minutes to prep and 45 minutes to bake. You can also easily double this recipe and make two casseroles if you’re serving a larger crowd.
To begin to make this recipe you’ll need ground beef, pork sausage, onion, green pepper, condensed tomato soup, eggs, and mushroom stems. Some of the seasonings include Italian seasoning, salt, pepper and garlic powder. It’s key to also layer in multiple different types of cheese including cottage cheese, ricotta, Parmesan and mozzarella.
Shutterstock/Nataliya Arzamasova
This Christmas salad is the perfect side dish to pair with any main course at your upcoming holiday gathering. It could even work as a main course if you have any vegans or vegetarians attending your event. This particular salad starts with a kale base and is topped with delicious add-ins to give its holiday flavor. Think apple slices, crunchy pecans and sweet pomegranate arils.
This recipe is a welcome healthy addition to any holiday table spread. You can also feel free to experiment with this recipe depending on your preferences. Try oranges instead of apples, or blue cheese instead of feta!
Shutterstock/Rawpixel.com
No matter what meat you opt for as your main course this holiday season, be sure to make a homemade gravy to go alongside it. From classic turkey, chicken, pork, or beef, savory gravy can transform any dish into something memorable that your guests will not forget.
While gravy from a can may be easier, your guests will be impressed if you make it homemade, and it’s surprisingly easy to do.
All you need for homemade gravy is drippings, fat, flour, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. It’s an easy, foolproof recipe that’s ready in 5 minutes and will leave a lasting impression.
Shutterstock/Elena Veselova
Ultra juicy roast beef topped with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper — what sounds better for the holidays? While turkey and ham may be your initial first idea for Christmas dinner this year, roast beef is another great option. While roast beef may seem intimidating at the first, it’s actually very easy.
The key is to ensure the meat you’re purchasing is high quality. Next, get creative with your seasonings. Sage, parsley, oregano, thyme and rosemary are a few popular options when it comes to roast beef. Lastly, allow the beef to roast slowly in the oven until done. Slice and enjoy!
Shutterstock/Lapina Maria
What would Thanksgiving be without a roast turkey? This is your classic turkey recipe for the holidays. While turkey can seem intimidating at first, this recipe will give you a step by step guide for a delicious and surprisingly easy way to tackle this seasonal tradition.
After big holidays, you can also buy turkeys on sale at the grocery store and keep them in the freezer. Every so often pull one out and either roast it or cut it into pieces and use it like you would chicken. You can find them at great prices so it’s a good way to save money.
circlePS / Shutterstock
If you’re having a smaller group this year for Thanksgiving, it might be a good idea to consider a stuffed turkey roll instead of a traditional large turkey. It’s a great seasonal dish to make if you’re only feeding 2-3 people. If you’re hosting more people, you can always just double or triple the recipe.
This unique stuffed turkey breast has some special flavors that are perfect to compliment the season. It’s got a cranberry, apricot, and pistachio stuffing which gives tangy, savory flavor in every bite. Your guests will be so impressed with this delicious turkey roll recipe. Enjoy!
Shutterstock/Anna Shepulova
If you like lamb for the holidays, this pistachio crusted lamb is a great option. The pistachios are a beautiful green color, which make a great holiday theme for Christmas. You could easily turn this recipe into a crown roast by buying two racks of lamb and tying it together with string.
The even better news? This recipe only takes 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, meaning you can definitely whip this up if you’re in a pinch. The crust is filled with beautiful flavors such as pistachios, Parmesan cheese, rosemary, and olive oil that your guests will definitely love.
Shuttestock/donatellatandelli
Duck is a great option if you’re having an intimate Christmas dinner and don’t want to cook a huge turkey. This sweet and sour duck recipe combination is beautiful. It makes a really impressive special occasion dish but it’s actually easy to make. The cranberry glaze is really festive.
While duck may seem intimidating at first, rest assured that this recipe is incredibly easy to pull off. It’s easy to cook and looks amazing on a holiday table. Duck meat is naturally rich in flavor and pairs perfectly with a fruity sauce. This particular sauce only requires three ingredients: honey, balsamic vinegar, and dried cranberries.
Shutterstock/Shebeko
This roast pork dish is really impressive. Crackling isn’t an easy thing to make, so your guests will be extra surprised when you bring this to the table. This recipe is a good method for foolproof crackling. It includes tips and tricks, like using foil balls to level the pork skin to ensure the perfect crispy crackle all over.
This recipe is a guaranteed hit, especially when paired with homemade gravy. If you’re feeling a little more experimental this holiday season, this crackled pork recipe is definitely worth a try! You and your guests will not be disappointed at its tender yet crispy texture.
Shutterstock/Liv friis-larsen
Cooking a turkey breast for Christmas is a great option if you’re feeding only a few people, and if you all like dark meat. It’s cheaper than buying the whole turkey and you get exactly what you want. You can find them in the frozen section of your large supermarkets around the holiday season.
You still have all the benefits of turkey with its crispy skin and tender meat without the hassle of cooking an entire bird. Pair this with some homemade gravy, creamy mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and green beans, and you have a delicious holiday spread that all your guests will love.
Shutterstock/Africa Studio
Honey hams are a classic Christmas dinner option. Baked honey hams are the perfect party food. They’re salty, delicious and a classic that you can’t go wrong with. This honey ham recipe is glazed with the delicious flavors of pineapple juice and basted with a buttery, sticky glaze. Juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, you can’t go wrong with this honey ham recipe!
Another good tip is that you can find good quality and very affordable hams after the holidays are over. They’re great to have in your freezer for Sunday dinners any time of the year.
Shutterstock/Elena Veselova
Salmon is definitely a non traditional Christmas dinner. It is common is the coastal States, but uncommon in the central ones. Regardless of where you’re located, salmon is a delicious and healthy option for your holiday dinner that you may not have previously considered.
This particular salmon recipe uses a no-fail method to bake the fish. It’s made with lemon and garlic which gives the fish a wonderful flavor and is baked in the oven for a delicious flaky finish. This recipe is delicious and definitely works well as a holiday main course that your guests won’t be expecting. Enjoy!
Shutterstock/ Marian Weyo
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The holiday season is fast approaching and Christmas will be here before you know it! Seasonally themed drinks are often the most overlooked parts of a Christmas party. Spice things up this year with a signature drink. We found 12 amazing Christmas drinks that you are going to love. We have some wonderful hot chocolate […]
The post 12 Holiday Party Recipes: Christmas Themed Drink Ideas appeared first on Forkly.
The holiday season is fast approaching and Christmas will be here before you know it! Seasonally themed drinks are often the most overlooked parts of a Christmas party. Spice things up this year with a signature drink. We found 12 amazing Christmas drinks that you are going to love. We have some wonderful hot chocolate drinks for children, and we have some alcoholic drinks just for adults. We didn’t forget about that classic Christmas drink- eggnog! We included both a traditional version, and one that’s egg free.
What is your holiday drink of choice?
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Christmas breakfast and brunch are a great family tradition. Christmas morning is chaotic, with children waking up early to see what Santa has brought them. It can be hard to find time for a good breakfast when you’re busy unwrapping presents and getting ready for guests later that day. We love the idea of a […]
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Christmas breakfast and brunch are a great family tradition. Christmas morning is chaotic, with children waking up early to see what Santa has brought them. It can be hard to find time for a good breakfast when you’re busy unwrapping presents and getting ready for guests later that day. We love the idea of a Christmas brunch family tradition, where everyone has to sit down and eat together. To make breakfast faster, and still special, we adore casseroles and quick recipes.
We’re sharing some of the best Christmas breakfast and brunch recipes. What is your Christmas morning tradition? Continue reading "12 Christmas Breakfast and Brunch Recipes"
