This has to be one of my (and the hubby’s) favorite types of lettuce wraps just for the simple fact that it tastes like the taco we all know and love, without the added carbs! We could probably eat it for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and not feel gross afterwards. It’s so easy to put together and can be customized how you like, or with whatever is left in the fridge. Try it this Taco Tuesday!
-Melanie
Health tips: Low fat, low carb, heart healthy, diabetes friendly, anti inflammatory
I am really enjoying Giada’s newest cookbook “Happy Cooking”! The recipes are just so clean, delicious and not too difficult. In this intense summer heat, I’m especially looking for refreshing, light dishes that don’t use the oven or stove. I came across her Easy Peasy Chicken Salad and my husband and I just loved it. It has great herby flavors from the fresh tarragon and chives, brightness from the lemon and crunch from the snap peas. Because I’m obsessed with the slight bite of brown mustard in creamy sauces, I just added a bit. I also used non-fat Green yogurt to make it even lighter. So yummy!
-Melanie
Health tips: Low fat, heart healthy, low carb, diabetes friendly
Ever wonder what you can do with extra taco meat? This isn’t an exact recipe, but it’s a wonderful method for using extra taco meat in another reimagined meal. It’s still fairly light and very tasty, even your kids will love it! Sort of a mix between a burger and a sloppy Joe, but better. Plus, there is room to make it your own. Try it soon with your family!
-Melanie
Health tips: Low fat, heart healthy, kid friendly
I belong to a private group on Facebook that is comprised of women who are there to encourage each other through health, fitness, and food. My sister-in-law posted this recipe from Skinnytaste. I had all the ingredients on hand, so I thought I’d give it a try. I was NOT disappointed! I was super simple to make and tastes delicious! You will not be disappointed. Thank you Skinnytaste!
-Tammy
Health tips: kid friendly, diabetes friendly
The amazing flavors of rosemary and Dijon mustard are some of my favorites, and it doesn’t take much to make magic. Plus, they are natural, low-fat ingredients! I was inspired by Ina Garten’s roasted mustard chicken thighs while watching the Food Network. I saw that she had dredged her chicken in Dijon as the binder which I thought was genius! It not only keeps the bread crumbs on but adds great flavor underneath. I use skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs to keep it light. Baking the breasts keeps it super moist too. It’s one of my husband’s favorite chicken recipes and he says he doesn’t miss the fried version at all, especially with the crispy Panko!
-Melanie
Health tips: Low fat, kid friendly, heart healthy, anti-inflammatory
I could just swim in a giant batch of mashed potatoes during the holidays…they are my absolute favorite holiday side! If I’m lucky enough to snag leftovers after Thanksgiving, I love to make these reimagined potato cakes. I was inspired by www.justataste.com. As if the flavor of mashed potatoes aren’t delicious already, the added goodies enhance them even more. They remind me of smashed loaded baked potatoes with the cheese, sour cream, chives and bacon…YUM!
-Melanie
Health tips: Cheat recipe, kid friendly
I don’t know where to start! I grew up eating Chicken Kiev. I LOVE it! We didn’t have it all the time, as it was considered one of those “fancy dinners”. And what’s not to love about chicken, garlic, butter, and parsley?!?! I hadn’t thought about it in years…until…I had a dream that I made little meatballs out of them which got me on the Rachael Ray show! It was the best dream, EVER! Of course, I woke up and realized it was only a dream…however, that didn’t stop me from trying to come up with a recipe and make them! I am so, so proud of this one! Totally took me back to my childhood. I called my mom to tell her. Understandably so, she wants me to make them for her. I cannot wait for her and YOU ALL to try these too!
-Tammy
Health tips: kid-friendly, kidney-friendly, diabetes friendly
Happy Halloween! We have a wonderful block to trick-or-treat on. Because of this, we invite people over to hang out. There are plenty of snacks and beverages for both adults and children. I always make sure I have savory dishes and not so many sweet dishes. The kiddos will have enough sweets with the candy! I did however make these mini pumpkin pie bites to snack on. They turned out really yummy! A prefect little sweet treat for this fun-filled day! Have a safe one!
-Tammy
Health tips: kid-friendly
Nothing says comfort food more than meatloaf! However, just hearing the words comfort food makes me think of gut-busting food. But not this meal. I’ve lightened it up by making mini meatloaves rather than one giant one. And I nestled them in zucchini noodles and tomato sauce, rather than regular noodles. Protein and veggies makes this a healthy meal! Enjoy!
-Tammy
Health tips: diabetes-friendly, low carb, kidney-friendly, kid-friendly
Who doesn’t love a one-pan dish? Easy clean up! I found this recipe a few years back in my Rachael ray magazine. It’s super easy, healthy, and delicious! My kiddos always enjoy this meal too! You can make it kidney friendly by “leaching*” your potatoes to take out some of the potassium! If you want a quick, week-night meal, then please try this! Thank you Rachael Ray! As always, you are my inspiration! Enjoy!
-Tammy
Health tips: kidney-friendly, kid-friendly
Family Apron 