recipes

A Classic Vegetable Soup For Spring

It starts slowly. Icicles drip onto the sidewalks, snow mounds shrink under afternoon sunlight, and here in the Pacific Northwest, heavy, warm rains are ushered in. As spring approaches, our appetites desire light, fresh, yet still warming foods. Enter the classic vegetable soup.

How to Make Homemade, Hassle-Free, Healthier Ketchup

I grew up absolutely loving the super sugary, tomato-based condiment that is ketchup. Now, I’m still infatuated with it. However, I don’t buy overly sweetened ketchup anymore; I only eat ketchup that I’ve made myself. Making ketchup from scratch is cheap, ridiculously easy, healthier, and oh so delicious. I’m even comfortable with claiming that homemade ketchup is just as good as the bottled stuff, if not better (assuming that’s a possibility).

Meatless Mexican Food: Baked Vegan Chorizo & Potato Taquitos

Considering its proximity to Mexico, it makes sense for California to have some of the best, most authentic Mexican food around. I can say that with confidence because I’ve actually eaten Mexican food in Mexico on numerous occasions, since I have family members from there. I’m a Northern California girl, but I must admit that some of the Mexican food in Southern California is better than what I’ve come across up north.

Cooking With Spices 101: How To Make Chili Oil

Chili oil is great on everything. Pizzas, noodles, soups, eggs, and even for dipping bread, chili oil elevates the flavor of any meal. There is just something about the kick from the chili flakes along with the smooth, fatty mouthful of olive oil that is the perfect accompaniment.

How to Make Healthy (Homemade) Valentine’s Day Treats

Valentine’s Day is synonymous with fiery red cinnamon hearts and decadent truffles, not to mention sugar cookies, lava cake, and other sugar-rich treats. These sweets have their place, but if you’re looking to share the gift of health–without sacrificing taste–check the hydrogenated oils, chemical sweetener and preservatives at the door and make these goodies from scratch (and with love) instead.

The Heat Is On: Vegetarian Spicy Pepper Fajitas Recipe

I like my food with a little heat and a twist of citrus. If you do, too, then you will love this recipe.

These spicy fajitas are the perfect combination of spices, peppers, and fresh lime. And the tortillas –  you can't forget the tortillas!

Recipe: Grain Free Persimmon Cookies

One of my favorite fruits to eat this time of year is the persimmon. In season from October to February, persimmons are incredibly sweet, juicy fruits that are quite fittingly referred to as “the fruit of the Gods.” Not only are they delicious, but they contain numerous health benefits as well.

These Vegan Garlic Pizza Rolls Will Make You Forget Frozen Snacks

Get your garlic fix with these vegan pizza rolls. Using only pizza dough, a little olive oil, and some spices, you can make a tasty vegan version of this classic appetizer. The ingredients are simple and easy to put together which leaves plenty of room for experimenting and making the recipe your own!  Try melting some vegan cheese on top of the rolls by adding it about half way through the baking time.

5 Amazing Avocado Recipes

Summer is the time for avocados, and that’s fortunate for you because they are considered to be one of the healthiest and most nutritious of foods!  Researchers say that people who consume avocado regularly usually gain great nutrient benefits, such as an increased intake of potassium, vitamin K, vitamin E, fiber, magnesium, and monounsaturated fat. Want to get some more avocado in your mouth? Here are five amazing – and easy -- avocado recipes.

1. Easy Avocado Banana Berry Smoothie

Ingredients: