• Pumpkin Chili

    Pumpkin Chili

    Chili is a great solution to any freezing winter evening. This chili is wonderful for the holiday season because of the addition of pumpkin and warming holiday spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, and ginger. Enjoy with some sweet potato fries and top with avocado for a completely satisfying meal. Pumpkin Chili 1 lb. ground beef 1 Read more

  • Coconut Kale Smoothie

    Coconut Kale Smoothie

    Naturewell in Silverlake. This place is the inspiration for today’s post. Here’s the dilemma: I could drive to LA, navigate traffic, find parking on Sunset Blvd (not an easy feat), then pay $7.50 for a 20 oz. coconut kale smoothie OR I could make my own beverage in the comfort of my kitchen for a Read more

  • Yam Gratin with Cashew Cream Sauce

    Yam Gratin with Cashew Cream Sauce

    Warning! This is NOT a particularly ‘easy’ clean plate recipe. It will take some time to put together, especially if you do not have a mandoline or slicing blade on your food processor. Slicing this stuff by hand is tedious for sure. HOWEVER, if you dedicate yourself to this dish, you will not be disappointed. Read more

  • Lemon Goji Cookies

    Lemon Goji Cookies

    Aren’t they cute?! I’m definitely on a cookie “kick” these days. Which is funny because I’m not a very “cookie” kind of person. I think it’s because they are a simple and inexpensive way to contribute to a party, give as gifts, etc… Not to mention that when I attend a holiday gathering full of Read more

  • Roasted Butternut Squash with Pecans and Cranberries

    Roasted Butternut Squash with Pecans and Cranberries

    It’s a gorgeous day here in Sunny South Orange County! I definitely can’t complain when it’s a mild 75 degrees on December 11th. Here’s a recent shot from LA… not too shabby. Today, I’m keeping it seasonal… but not overly “holiday”. This is a very easy and delicious side dish that would pair well with Read more

  • Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies

    Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies

    This post was requested by my friend Denise… so you can thank her if you love them! These little beauties are fantastic for your any of your holiday sweet snacking desires. They go great with coffee and they make an allergy-friendly dessert at all those work parties. They’re not overly sweet but they are satisfying Read more