01. Pumpkin Spice White Russian

Image via The Cookie Rookie

An evening pumpkin spice latte, if you will (wink wink). This is a fun twist on a classic drink. A graham cracker rim and the liquor of your choice creates the perfect fall cocktail!

02. Stovetop Mulled Wine

Image via Gimme Some Oven

There’s nothing like warming you up like some mulled wine. The aromatics from the cinnamon and star anise, and the variety of liquors in this drink pair together perfectly. It’s sweet, easy to make and oh so cozy. Check out the recipe for some fun customizations.

03. Winter Spritz

Image via How Sweet Eats

This sparkling beverage is the perfect bubbly drink that we all crave! You can make it fancy with a fun glass and fruit on top. Pour in your favorite sparkling champagne or soda water to serve as a mocktail – which makes it perfect for kids, too!

04. Chai Espresso Martini

Image via Half Baked Harvest

Up next, the dirty adult chai. Wow your guests with this vanilla chai and honey simple syrup, on top of your classic espresso martini.

05. Sparkling Blueberry Ginger Mocktail

Blueberry and ginger with bubbly water – say no more! I don’t know about you, but we love ginger around here. It’s even better when it’s paired with vibrant fruits like blueberry and lemon.

As we transition into the colder temperatures, we want to share these 10 basic items that every wardrobe needs this winter with you!

The post 5 Of The Best Fall Cocktails and Mocktails first appeared on Inspired By This.

Image via Love & Lemons

Butternut Squash Soup 

A true fall classic! You can’t go wrong with any soup during the colder season, but butternut squash is a staple fall ingredient in any meal. This soup is sure to bring all the autumn feels!

Image via Fresh Apron

Autumn Harvest Chili

You can’t ever go wrong with a flavorful + hearty chili. It is the perfect lazy meal that can be cooked and incorporated in multiple different forms – and cannot forget to add that it is a football season fan fav!

Image via Once Upon A Chef

Chicken Pot Pie

There is nothing like a good pie on a chilly day. Chicken pot pie is a heart (and stomach) warming comfort meal that is easily shareable with family and friends. Crack open a window, let in that fall breeze, and get to cookin’!

Image via Sprinkles & Sprouts

Pumpkin Risotto

Looking to amp up your fixin’s this fall? This pumpkin risotto is a perfect way to add a fun twist to a side dish. It is sure to impress your folks and friends during your next autumn dinner party.

Image via The Craveable Kitchen

Chicken Dumpling Soup

4 words, comfort in a mug. Chicken and dumpling soup is the best companion during your Gilmore Girls binge night. It will keep you wanting second… and thirds!

We hope you try out and enjoy these 5 fall recipes! They are our Autumn staples, and we are sure they will become yours too! If you’re in need of some more fall favorites, check out these fall pumpkins/fall decor ideas!

The post 5 Fall Recipes to Cozy Up Your Seasonal Meals first appeared on Inspired By This.

Ginger Apple Moscow Mule

Image via Half Baked Harvest

Make this one with or without alcohol for the perfect fall refreshment. These flavors blend together so well!

Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Image via Pioneer Woman

Who doesn’t love a gooey mac and cheese?! The topping of crispy breadcrumbs mixed with sage is perfection.

Vegan Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Image via The Banana Diaries

Breakfast or dessert, these are a winner in our book! Pro tip : the silicone donut molds create the perfect donuts!

Whole30 Pot Roast

Image via The Defined Dish

This dish is perfect for those cooler nights – and its a guarantee family winner!

Baked Sweet Potato Parmesan Tator Tots

Image via Half Baked Harvest

This one is a must try! Everyone love tator tots, but these are elevated. Perfect for fall!

Double Chocolate Zucchini Blender Muffins – GF/DF

Image via Olivia Adriance

These couldn’t be easier. Simply add all the ingredients together in a blender, then pour into your molds!

Creamy Potato Soup

Image via Love and Lemons

If you (or your kids) are picky soup eaters, this is a must try! The toppings are everything with this potato soup!

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Image via Life in the Lofthouse

The best of both worlds here – cinnamon rolls AND pancakes! Who wouldn’t love this recipe?!

Apple Ginger Granola with Pecans

Image via The Kitchn

Granola is a great topping for yogurt, oatmeal or to add to a home made trail mix. We love this fall edition!

Ultimate Fall Salad

Image via The Kitchn

We are suckers for salads over here – especially when they aren’t your typical lettuce base. These fall flavor combinations are heavenly!

Stay tuned for more fall recipes and party ideas from us throughout the next couple months! In the mean time, check out these 10 wardrobe staples everyone needs!

The post 2023 Fall Recipes You Need To Try first appeared on Inspired By This.

Drinks

The drink aisles at Trader Joe’s are exceptional. There are so many cold pressed juice options in the refrigerator section, as well as on the shelves. The tangerine juice is a MUST try. Try swapping it for orange juice on your next trip – it’s also incredible in smoothies.

The 3 different flavors of sparkling teas are insanely good! All of them have a touch of caffeine, but the white tea puts a little extra pep in your step – which we sometimes need in the mornings. They’re the perfect (clean) pick me up and also the perfect size!

Seasonings

It’s no secret that seasonings are one of the most expensive pantry items. Trader Joe’s seasonings are not only affordable, they are super versatile. There are plenty of seasonings not pictured here, but we did snag a few pictures of our most used. The BBQ seasoning, mushroom umami, and salmon rub are also some favorites!

Pro tips coming at ya! You’re going to want to sprinkle the pizza seasoning on your roasted potatoes/fries or add it into your marinara sauce to kick them up a notch! The citrusy garlic blend is incredible on salmon, and the chile lime, we love adding it to our tacos/taquitos. The green goddess and onion salt are the best flavor enhancers for your salad dressings. Try 1/2 fresh squeezed lemon juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, and 3 tsp seasoning. Shake up & enjoy!

Our Favorite Gluten Free Snacks/Sweet Treats

Anyone else love snacking?! All of these are great, healthy snack options. Whether you’re on the go, or need to add a little something extra to tide you over until dinner, the options above are some of our favorite gluten and dairy free Trader Joe’s items.

The freeze dried fruit, fruit bars, golden berries and sunflower butter cups are clean and totally satisfy your sweet tooth. The almond flour cookies are ridiculously gooey and delicious. Pro tip with those – if you are egg free/egg sensitive, sub in 1 tbsp apple sauce per 1 egg in any baking recipe. If you’re out of dairy free milk, add in your favorite yogurt – it makes them even softer after baking.

Our Favorite Dairy Free Sauces/Dips

The dip section might be our favorite section of Trader Joe’s. The vegan options are incredibly good and have tons of great flavor. Use them on salads, pastas, or charcuterie boards. The jicima sticks (pictured earlier) along with carrot sticks, bell peppers and snap peas are a great accessory for these dips as well! Throw the chili onion crunch on anything – and we mean anything!

Other Favorite Gluten & Dairy Free Trader Joe’s Items

Trader Joe’s truly has it all. From organic frozen fruits, turkey burgers, and plenty of breakfast options, all of your daily meals can be covered with one store! They have some of the best gluten free pasta, herbs and floral options – or at least we think so!

The date syrup is a new staple in our pantry. It’s an incredible syrup/sweetener replacement on oatmeal or pancakes. Air fry the gnocchi – your kids will have no idea its main ingredient is cauliflower.

Be sure to screen shot or write down some new items from our list that you’d be willing to try on your next trip. It’s impossible to cover all of our favorites in one blog post, but this is a good starter list for those wanting to have more options that are healthy, affordable and most importantly, delicious!

The post Our Favorite Gluten & Dairy Free Trader Joe’s Items first appeared on Inspired By This.

Appetizers to Share

01. 4th of July Charcuterie Board

Charcuterie boards are always a good idea. It’s even more fun when you keep the board to the theme – in this case, with red, white and blue colors!

02. Crockpot Queso Blanco

You won’t believe how easy this white cheddar queso is. Is it even a party without queso?! The answer is no. It’s always a good idea, and one that will for sure be gone by the end of the day! *A 4th of July tip, try finding those multicolored tortilla chips to be even more festive. Enjoy!

03. Watermelon-Fennel Pico de Gallo

This mild and herby fresh salsa is the perfect refreshing appetizer on a hot summer day. Are you familiar with fennel? If not, listen up. Fennel bulb (found in the fresh produce section), will easily add a new punch of flavor to any dish you add it to. Eat it raw in salsas/salads, or sauté it with your favorite vegetables. It’s best described as having a very mild anise or licorice flavor (don’t let that deter you, though!). You can learn more about it here.

Main Dish Options

01. Beef Kabobs

These are so incredible tasty and the best part : they can be prepped ahead of time to soak up all the marinade flavor. Another great thing about beef vs chicken, is that the beef will be perfectly cooked when your veggies are ready. Fire up the grill, set these kabobs on, and dinner is ready in under 10 minutes. It also pairs perfectly with any side dish – what more could you ask for?!

02. Smokey Grilled Dry Rub Porkchops

Grilling gives everything so much flavor. Pair that with a dry rubbed bone in pork chop and we can hear our stomachs start to grumble. The best thing about pork chops is that they really do go with any ‘topping’ or side dishes. These are a little sweet with a touch of heat – the perfect summer main dish.

03. Chile-Oregano Chimichurri

Pick your favorite protein and elevate the entire dish with this sauce. Seriously, its perfect over burgers, chicken, steak or pork chops! Drizzle a little, or a lot, either way, you and your guests won’t be disappointed.

Side Dishes

01. Arugula Pesto Potato Salad

Instead of your classic mayo & egg potato salad, we have fallen in love with this bright and tangy potato salad. It’s the perfect pairing to burgers, pork chops, ribs or kabobs on the grill.

02. Root Beer Baked Beans

I couldn’t pass up sharing this one. There are hundreds of different baked bean recipes out there, but this one is on a whole new level, which is why it easily made it into our 4th of July recipes & ideas post. They are tangy, sweet and ever so slightly smokey.

03. Apple Slaw

When it comes to coleslaw, I feel like you either love it or.. it’s maybe not your go to. If you do find yourself being a slaw lover, it comes down this : do you like creamy based slaw, or a vinaigrette based tangy slaw? This recipe is tangy with tons of crunch.

04. Corn on the Cob with Honey Lime Compound Butter

Corn on the cob is an American barbecue staple. Maybe you like the classic salt and butter, or maybe you are looking to switch it up. If that’s the case, you must try this honey lime compound butter. Again, prep it ahead of time and bring it to your party for an easy flavor enhancer.

Desserts

01. Strawberry Pretzel Bars

If you have not had these yet, let this be the one you bring to your summer parties this year! It is out of this world. Think of cheesecake, but with a buttery, sweet and salty crust with a refreshing fruity topping. Need I say more?

02. Patriotic Ice Cream Cone Cupcakes

Ice cream cone cupcakes is a first for us! When I saw these adorable desserts, I knew I had to share them with you! They’re incredibly fun to create and definitely a show stopper for the 4th of July! Be sure to read through her tips & tricks – like choosing a white cake mix and poking a hole in the bottom to prevent a soggy cone bottom.

03. Patriotic Bark

Making (white) chocolate bark has been my go to the last couple years for a few reasons.

1. Its a no bake desert – all you need to do is microwave the chocolate melts.
2. You can add any ingredients you like : pretzels, cereal, m&m, – of any kind, dried fruit pieces, sprinkles etc.
3. You literally can’t screw it up

We hope that you have found some new cooking/baking inspiration from our 4th of July recipes & ideas. If you find yourself hosting a patriotic party, check out our “Everything You Need for the Perfect 4th of July Tablescape” post.

The post 4th of July Recipes & Ideas first appeared on Inspired By This.

1.) Kombucha Mocktail

Image & Recipe via Sweet Lizzy

Okay we’re just going to look past the minute amount of alcohol in Kombucha, but we don’t advise driving or operating heavy machinery after a few sips of this because mentally you’ll be somewhere far away (and because you need to stay inside). Instead of feeling nauseated and blob-like, you’ll have that good gut health glow. Paired with hibiscus and ginger, it will be a delight for the taste buds and nose alike!

2.) Grapefruit Thyme Mocktail

Image & Recipe via Flowers in the Salad

A little bit of bitter, a little bit of sweet and a whole lot of fragrant. We are super into this citrus concoction that is just as pretty as it is yummy! Just make sure that you have the recipe handy, because you know everyone on Zoom will want to know what you’re sipping on!

3.) Golden Glow Water

Image & Recipe via Half Baked Harvest

No we didn’t pick it just because it has “glow” in the name… that’s why we clicked on it. However we were not disappointed at all when we came upon this tonic-turned mocktail. It’s got some high-key immune boosters which we are incredibly thankful for. You may have already guessed by the name, but yes, it even has anti-inflammatory turmeric. You sugary sweet margarita can’t boast this (but oh how we still love, sugary margarita).

4.) Honey Roasted Pear Sparkling Mocktail

 Image & Recipe via Cotter Crunch

Don’t ask us why, but pear automatically equates to fancy in our minds. So spend your evening pearing (yes, we went there) this drink with a coordinating PJ set, a face mask and a nice read and look at you! Someone is claiming the throne as the queen of elegant self care! Look at you go!

5.) Watermelon Cooler

Image and Recipe via Better Homes & Gardens

It may not yet be summertime, and the living might not be easy. However, who’s to say that we can’t pretend that it is? This little number has got us feeling like it’s a balmy summer day. Not only is it delightful, but it’s also only 44 calories per serving! Not even a vodka water can boast that (not to mention that vodka waters taste like the tears of small children.)

6.) Chasing Summer

Image and Recipe via Food & Wine

Okay truly this one is blowing our minds! With a base of Chai Sun Tea and accents of passionfruit and… wait for it.. balsamic vinegar this mocktail has all the twists and turns to keep you on your toes! There’s even sweetened condensed milk to really seal the deal! These mocktails are so good that we might just have to whip some up as a mid-workday treat! It’s got tea!

7.) Cucumber Lime Lavender Spritzer

Image & Recipe via Simplemost

Let’s play a word association game. We’ll share a word and then say the first word we associate with it. Ready? Here we go! Refreshing? Cucumber! Tasty? Lime? Fragrant? Lavender! Well, there you have it folks! This mocktail is the epitome of all things refreshing, tasty and fragrant! Perfect to enjoy this spring weather from your window, and even helpful for a good night’s rest! Now that’s a win-win!

8.) Sparkling Pineapple Mojito Mocktail

Image and Recipe via The Pretty Life Girls

Can a cocktail sell you based on it’s bubbles alone? If so, have we got the drink for you! This concoction is easy to make and delicious with lots of pineapple, lime and even some mint to really step it’s game! These mocktails are so good that you may just be making some of these on your next (eventual) beach trip!

9.) Rose Lemon Spritzer

Image & Recipe via Half Baked Harvest

It’s beautiful and it’s tasty so what isn’t there to love? This delicate little mocktail has rosewater, honey and lemon and we are tempted to make it based on aesthetics alone. Don’t forget the rose petals for garnish because what better time to be extra than when you have all the extra time? (And you didn’t hear it from us, but it does pair nicely with vodka too.)

10.) Chocolate Moo

Image via Lindt

Oh, you know, it’s just one of our favorite mocktails! All you’ve got to do is blend chocolate ice cream, milk/ milk alternative, ice cubes, maybe some chocolate syrup if you’re living on the wild side, and voila! Now don’t forget the whipped cream and cherry on top!

If you’re thinking to yourself, “Isn’t that a milkshake?” Why yes it is. You know what they say, if it ain’t broke don’t fix it! We most certainly classify milkshakes as mocktails, and we are confident that this mocktail will completely make you forget about it not having alcohol.

Not only are these mocktails yummy, these are mocktails that are so good they’ll change the mood of your whole weekend. So make sure to enjoy your early Saturday morning! Watch the sunrise with a little savasana action, do some early morning cleaning with a quick sage to your space and make yourself a healthy breakfast. In this same amount of time hungover you will have only woken up and ordered in something greasy for breakfast.

If this article is inspiring you to go out and live your best life, check out this article on four safe cleanses to try! If this article just really made you want a drink (no judgement), then might we recommend looking into some colorful summer cocktails to try out? No matter what, happy sipping!

The post 10 Mocktails That Are So Good, You’ll Forget They’re Alcohol-Free first appeared on Inspired By This.

Gluten Free,Dairy Free Cold Pasta Salad

Image via Better with Britt

I don’t know about you, but I cannot get enough of cold pasta salads in the summer time. Not only are they are so versatile, but these pasta summer recipes are customizable. With every recipe, you can add or omit any ingredients you don’t particularly like – it’s a win win for us. If you’re brave in the kitchen, you might even find yourself throwing together your own cold pasta salad!

Ingredients

• 1 lb Rotini Noodles (I love the GF Brown Rice Quinoa Noodles from Trader Joes)
• 1.75 oz Microgreens Container
• 10 oz Cherry Tomato Medley, halved
• 1 English Cucumber
• 1-2 C Spring Mix Greens
• 1-2 TBSP Chili Onion Crisp (from Trader Joe’s – can omit if you don’t like spicy)
• 3/4 C Kalamata Olives (or olives of your choosing)
• 1/2 Red Onion, thinly sliced

Dressing

• 1/3 C Olive Oil
• Juice of 1 Lemon
• Zest of 1 Lemon
• 2 TBSP Balsamic Vinegar (can sub red wine vinegar)
• 2 TSP Oregano
• 1 TSP Crushed Fennel Seed
• 1/2 TSP Fresh Cracked Pepper
• Salt to Taste

Instructions

• Cook noodles in boiling, salted water.
• Chop salad ingredients per instructions in ingredients list.
• Mix together lemon juice, vinegar, & seasonings. Slowly whisk in olive oil.
• When noodles are done cooking, drain & rinse in cold water. Then, add to dressing and mix in chopped vegetables.

• *If you are not eating right away, leave out spring mix greens until ready to serve. You can also leave the chili crisp on the side for everyone to top theirs with. Enjoy!

Grilled Pineapple

Image via Love and Lemons

This one is so fun and the perfect simple side dish to any barbecue! You can choose to marinate the pineapple, or cook it plain with oil and some salt- either way, the grill will give it lots of great flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• Pinches of chili powder
• 1 pineapple, cut, cored, and sliced into rings
• Cooking spray or additional avocado oil for brushing the grill

Instructions

• Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium heat. In a small bowl, mix the oil, lime juice, honey, salt, and chili powder and brush onto the pineapple.
• Spray or brush the grill with oil, then grill the pineapple 3 to 4 minutes per side or until char marks form.

Mango Guacamole with a Twist

Image via Fit Foodie Finds

Have you tried mango with tajin yet? If you haven’t, it’s delicious on it’s own (just mango with tajin). However, when you put those two ingredients over guacamole, you have yourself one of the best summer recipes (or at least we think it is). Don’t knock it until you try it! Recipe via Better with Britt

Ingredients

• 1 large mango
• 4 medium ripe avocados
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped (or more, to taste)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (or more, to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt or more, to taste*
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped (can omit)
• 2 cloves crushed/minced garlic (or 1/4 tsp garlic powder)
• Tajin seasoning for sprinkling on top

Instructions 

• Cut mango cheeks (avoiding pit), skin mango cheeks by using a cup or knife, then dice into small cubes. Set aside.
• Remove the flesh and pit from the avocados and scoop into the bowl with spoon. Using a fork, mash avocado until you’ve reached desired consistency – chunky or smooth.
• Add in chopped cilantro, onion, lime juice, garlic, salt, and 1/2 of the cubed mango to the avocado. Stir until mixed together well
• Give the guacamole a taste and add more salt as needed. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and add more as desired.
• Add the rest of the mango on top & sprinkle with tajin seasoning (as desired)
• Serve mango guacamole with tortilla chips or as a side to accompany any of your favorite dishes.

Burrata with Heirloom Tomatoes

Image via Love and Lemons

A fun platter for any occasion! What’s even better is when you can find peaches and tomatoes at your local farmers market. We love that this platter is simple with bold flavors, yet it’s customizable to your preferences. Another bonus is that you can serve this dressing over a bed of greens for your lunches later in the week! This is one of those summer recipes that you can make over and over without getting tired of it.

Ingredients

Lemon-Thyme Oil (makes extra)

• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, crushed
• Peel from 1 small lemon
• 4 thyme sprigs

For the burrata platter

• 4 heirloom tomatoes
• 1 ripe peach, sliced
• 1 (8-ounce) ball fresh burrata
• ½ cup fresh basil and/or mint leaves
• 1 tablespoon toasted pistachios, chopped
• Flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
• A few cherries or fresh currants, optional
• Toasted bread, for serving

Instructions

• Combine the oil, garlic, lemon peel, and thyme in a small saucepan over low heat. Gently warm the mixture, then turn off the heat. Let steep for 20 minutes, then strain.
• Assemble the tomatoes, peach slices, and burrata on a platter. Sprinkle with salt, then drizzle with lemon-thyme oil. Top with the basil and mint and sprinkle with pistachios. Top with cherries and currants, if desired. Season to taste with salt and pepper and serve with toasted bread.

Watermelon Salsa

Image via Food Network

This is a light and fresh spin on the traditional summer recipes we all love – salsa & pico de gallo. It’s tart, sweet and just a tad spicy – what more could you want?! Your family and friend will be raving about this new take on summer salsa – we guarantee it!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 teaspoons lime zest (from about 1 lime)
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from about 3 limes)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Freshly ground pepper
• 3 cups seeded and finely chopped watermelon
• 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded and diced
• 1 mango, peeled and diced
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 8 fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
• Tortilla chips/pitas, for serving

Instructions

• Stir together the lime zest, lime juice, sugar and 3/4 teaspoon pepper in a bowl. Add the watermelon, cucumber, mango, jalapeno, onion and basil and toss gently. Chill the salsa until ready to serve.
• Add the garlic salt just before serving. Serve with chips.

Grilled Steak Salad

Image via Delish

A summer classic – grilled steak salad. We love the pairing of balsamic vinegar with steak. This fresh green salad with herbs, ripe tomatoes and creamy blue cheese has us drooling!

Ingredients

Dressing

• 4 cloves garlic, peeled, smashed
• 1/2 c. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/3 c. balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 tsp. granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

Salad

• 1 medium red onion, cut into 1/2″ slices
• 1 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt
• 1 1/4 lb boneless ribeye steak
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 5 oz. baby arugula and/or baby spinach 
• 1 avocado, pitted, sliced
• 1 c. cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 oz. blue cheese, crumbled
• Torn fresh basil leaves, for serving

Instructions

Dressing

• In a small saucepan over medium heat, cook garlic and oil, stirring occasionally, until garlic is fragrant and softened, 5 to 7 minutes.
• Transfer garlic to a blender. Add vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, and pepper and blend until very smooth. Pour into a jar and refrigerate until ready to use. 
• Make Ahead: Dressing can be made 1 week ahead. Keep refrigerated

Salad

• Prepare a grill for medium-high heat; heat 5 minutes and clean grates well. Drizzle onion with oil; season with salt. Generously season steak with salt and pepper.
• Grill onions, turning once, until char marks appear, 2 to 3 minutes per side, and grill steak, turning occasionally, until an instant-read thermometer inserted into thickest part registers 130° for medium-rare, about 6 minutes per side. Transfer onions and steak to a cutting board. Let cool slightly. Thinly slice steak against the grain.
• On a large platter, arrange arugula. Top with steak, onions, avocado, tomatoes, blue cheese, and basil. Drizzle with dressing before serving.

We hope that you’ll give a few of these summer recipes a try! And with 4th of July quickly approaching, we have you covered with everything you need for the perfect 4th of July tablescape.

The post Summer Recipes You’ll Have On Repeat first appeared on Inspired By This.

OatHaus Granola Butter

If you buy only one thing on this list, make it this Granola Butter from OatHaus. Imagine spreadable oatmeal cookies and you’ve pretty much dreamt up exactly what this tastes like! Every flavor is worth a try, but Original and Brownie Batter currently have my heart!

365 Tikka Masala Simmer Sauce

I love an easy meal option, and this Tikka Masala Simmer Sauce is SO good and makes weeknight dinner super simple. Use it as a marinade or toss it in a pan with vegetables or a protein of your choice to serve with rice and naan, and dinner is served!

Purely Elizabeth Cinnamon Peanut Butter Keto Granola

Believe me when I say this granola is everything. I love it on top of yogurt with fresh berries (and a drizzle of Granola Butter!), on pancakes or waffles, on its own…the options are endless, and this flavor feels like an indulgent sweet treat!

Feel Good Foods Cauliflower Crust Pizza Bites

Don’t be fooled: these healthier-for-you versions of your favorite childhood pizza roll snacks don’t taste any less delicious than the original snack! I love popping these in the air fryer and serving them up with a little marinara sauce or ranch and an arugula side salad for a quick, tasty, and nostalgic lunch.

Bela Lemon & Olive Oil Sardines

If you’ve been watching TikToks and Instagram Reels lately promoting “tinned fish nights” but you’re not sure how exactly to dive into the tinned fish world, this is the perfect starting point! These lemon olive oil-packed sardines are flavorful but mild (AKA, not fishy-tasting!) and they’re perfect to serve with crusty bread and crudités.

Whole Foods Bakery Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

These vegan chocolate chip cookies are inevitably the first thing that makes it into my cart every time I step foot into my local Whole Foods! They’re a tasty treat to bring to your next book club, movie night, or, you know, just keep them at home to snack on yourself!

If you love Whole Foods as much as us, be sure to check out our additional blog post : A Nutritionist’s Grocery List to Whole Foods

The post Our Favorite Whole Food Finds first appeared on Inspired By This.

01. Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

Image & recipe by Brooklyn’s Bites

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 6 celery stalks, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 lb ground Italian sausage
• 32 oz chicken broth
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes
• 10 oz cheese tortellini
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 cups kale, de-stemmed & diced
• Fresh grated Parmesan to top

Instructions:

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted, add onion, celery and garlic & simmer for 3-4 mins until the onions and celery are fork tender.

2. Add dried oregano, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes & stir until evenly coated. Push the celery & onion mixture to the sides of the pot & add ground Italian sausage to the middle. Cook for another 5-8 mins or until the sausage has cooked through

3. Add crushed tomatoes and chicken broth and simmer for 20 mins

4. Add tortellini and heavy cream and simmer for 3 mins

5. Add kale & simmer for another 2 mins

6. Top with Parmesan cheese & ENJOY! 

02. Gluten & Dairy Free Apple Crisp

Image & recipe by Brooklyn’s Bites

Ingredients:

Filling:

• 5-6 apples, sliced thinly
• 1/2 tbsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tbsp arrowroot starch
• 2 tbsp lemon juice

Topping:

• 2 cup oats
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup melted coconut oil
• 1/3 cup maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Pre-heat oven to 350

2. Place all filling ingredients into the pan and mix together until well coated & spread them evenly into the pan

3. In a medium bowl, add oats, almond flour and pecans & mix. Add melted coconut oil & maple syrup and mix again until we’ll combined

4. Pour the topping evenly over the apples

5. Bake for 35-40 mins and ENJOY!

03. Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken

Image & recipe by Half Baked Harvest

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts/thighs, cut into bite-size chunks
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 teaspoons plus 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoons paprika
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1-2 teaspoons cayenne pepper, use to taste
• kosher salt and black pepper
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 tablespoons salted butter
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cups cubed butternut squash
• 6 cloves garlic, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh grated ginger
• 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes, use to taste
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 (14 ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, toss together the chicken, yogurt, 2 teaspoons garam masala, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, 1/2 – 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon salt. Let sit 5-10 minutes.

2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear on both sides until browned, about 2 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and toss to coat the chicken. Remove the chicken from the skillet to a plate.

3. To the skillet, add the onion and butternut squash, tossing with the butter in the skillet. Cook 5 minutes, until softened. Add 2 tablespoons butter, the garlic, ginger, 1 tablespoon garam masala, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, 1/2 – 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, paprika, and the chili flakes. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add the tomato paste and continue cooking another 3-4 minutes.

4. Reduce the heat to low. Add 1 cup water and the coconut milk. Stir to combine, bring the sauce to a simmer, cook 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly. If the sauce seems too thick, thin with 1/2 to 1 cup additional coconut milk. Add the chicken and any juices in the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the cilantro. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Serve the chicken, squash, and sauce over bowls of rice with fresh naan. Enjoy!

04. Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper

Image & recipe by Salt and Lavender

Ingredients:

• 1 pound extra lean ground beef
• 1/2 medium onion chopped
• 2 heaping tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
• 3 cups beef broth
• 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the beef and onions to a soup pot. Cook over medium-high heat until the beef has browned (about 7-10 minutes), breaking the meat up with your spoon as you go along. If there’s a lot of excess fat, spoon most of it out.

2. Stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, and chili powder.

3. Add in the beef broth and increase the heat to high. Once it starts boiling, add in the macaroni.

4. Reduce the heat so it’s not furiously boiling (a rapid simmer is good). I ended up cooking mine over medium heat. Let it cook uncovered until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed (about 13-15 minutes). I stir it every couple of minutes.

5. While it’s cooking, grate the cheese (this saves prep time at the start of the recipe).

6. Take the pot off the heat and stir in the cheese. Season with salt & pepper as needed. I let it sit for a couple minutes prior to serving (soaks up the sauce and flavors more), but you can serve it right away.

05. Creamy Pumpkin Steel Cut Oats

Image & recipe by Simply Quinoa

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cups steel cut oats
• 3 cups almond milk
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 tablespoon vegan butter or coconut oil
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar , divided
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup pecans
• 1 – 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• Additional almond milk to drizzle optional

Instructions:

1. Add oats and almond milk to a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Stir in pumpkin, butter, 2 tablespoons of sugar, pumpkin spice and salt. Reduce to low and simmer for 25 – 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. For the pecans, add the coconut oil and remaining sugar to a large saute pan. Once melted and shimmering, add the pecans. Cook for 3 minutes until caramelized. Remove from heat and plate the oatmeal.

3, To serve, divide the oatmeal evenly between bowls. Top each bowl with some pecans and a drizzle of almond milk and enjoy!

06. Autumn Glow Salad with Lemon Dressing

Image & recipe by Pinch of Yum

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 cup freekeh or other grain (quinoa, bulgur, etc.)
• 1 head cauliflower
• 2 sweet potatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• a sprinkle of dried spices that you like, or a few sprigs of thyme, rosemary, etc.
• 1 large apple

For the Lemon Dressing:

• 1 bunch parsley (about 1 cup), minced
• 1 small clove garlic, minced
• 2/3 cup olive oil
• juice of one lemon (more to taste)
• 1 teaspoon agave (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the grains and place in a rice cooker with the appropriate amount of broth or water (refer to package directions – it depends on the grain). Set on the white rice setting and prep the other stuff while it cooks.

2. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Chop the cauliflower into small florets. Peel and chop the sweet potatoes. Place on a baking sheet and drizzle with oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and add a few sprigs of thyme or other dried spices if you have some that you like. Roast for 20 minutes, stir, and roast for another 10-15 minutes. When they are golden brown and soft, remove from oven and set aside.

3. While the veggies are roasting, combine all dressing ingredients in a jar with a tight lid and shake to combine. Chop the apple and set aside.

4. When the grains and vegetables are done, toss everything together. This can be done when everything is hot or when it’s cooled, although the texture will be different (heavier) when hot. Store leftovers separately (salad and dressing) if possible.

Did you know,

…that we have a food and drink section of our blog? Be sure to check it out every so often for new cooking inspiration!

The post 6 Recipes Your Entire Family Will Love first appeared on Inspired By This.

#1) Salmon and Cauliflower Rice Bowls

We’ve all seen Emily Mariko’s viral salmon bowl, and we’re here to say we are fans of it. There are a few ways we make it our own that involves even * less * effort. We follow the original recipe, however, we swap Trader Joe’s frozen Cauliflower Rice for leftover rice, and to achieve the ultimate effortless no-heat meal, we use canned Salmon, also from Trader Joe’s. It’s constantly on rotation over here!

#2) Finely Chopped Greek Salad

We love all things Brocc Your Body, however, her infamous La Scala chopped salad recipe is bookmarked for good reason. The key here (and with any chopped salad) is to chop chop chop super finely. Add leftover grilled chicken or choose to go meatless. Either way, it’s satisfying, refreshing and will have you going back for seconds. Bookmark it for yourself here!

#3) Tuna-Stuffed Avocado

You can catch us having tuna salad several times a week for a quick and easy WFH lunch, but who’s to say it’s a lunch-only food? This recipe has all of the good ingredients and none of the bad, but sure to be light enough for that post-swim dinner.

Basking in the sun all day, coming in to shower, and whipping up a no-heat, easy, energizing dinner is one of our favorite parts of Summer. Be sure to also take a peek at our Summer Sweet Treat Alternatives for that after-dinner sweet tooth cure. Enjoy, and happy end-of-Summer!

The post 3 No Heat Late-Summer Dinner Ideas first appeared on Inspired By This.