Black Bean and Squash Chili

Autumn is in the air today where I live.  A clear sky, cool temps, and a light breeze require a sweatshirt.  But after the horribly hot summer this weather is very much welcome.  And did you know that today also marks the first day of autumn on the calendar?  And what comes to mind when thinking about food at this time of year?  Soups and stews.  Be ready.  I love cooking stews and...

Apple “Teeth” Snack

Cute or creepy?  Whatever you think of this apple “teeth” snack, they will be a hit with your children.  And maybe even the kid at heart of yourself or someone else. Simple to prepare, this snack will go over well.  And it is always a good idea to have a healthy snack midafternoon or as an after school snack. Not only does the apple provide you with great fiber and vitamins, the sunflower...

Must Have Pasta Salad

When I think of pasta salad I think “hot summer lunch.” But it does not have to be hot or be summer to enjoy a pasta salad. And it does not have to be lunch. It could be a side dish or salad to a meal. It could even be a snack. Pasta salads are a great way to get in some raw vegetables. And you do not really have to follow a recipe. Use whatever vegetables you want or have on hand. And all...

Banana Nectarine Smoothie

I never made or drank smoothies in my dairy indulging days.  Now they are a staple in my diet.  A good friend of mine introduced me to smoothies without milk products and I remember thinking that was unusual.  I had just assumed that smoothies had to have yogurt or milk.  But lo and behold…they do not need milk and yogurt and they can still be thick and creamy and maybe even dreamy.  I...

Grilled Sweet Potatoes and Apples

If you are not a fan of sweet potatoes, I think this recipe will change your mind.  And if not, maybe some scientific facts will.  After all, I sometimes find it easier to eat healthy when I know how good the food is for me.  Sweet potatoes are probably under eaten here in America.  I found a statistic that states in 1943 sweet potatoes were consumed 21.7 pounds per capita and in 2007 it...

Raspberry Spinach Salad

I know that for many people, when they hear “spinach” they think either “yuck” or “Popeye,” and “makes you strong.”  Well, if you are eating canned or frozen spinach I can see where the “yuck” might factor in.  But by buying fresh spinach you can toss that excuse out the window.  And let’s clear up the whole Popeye thing.    Yes, spinach is good for you which we’ll...