Salads & Side dishes

This Crunchy Thai Quinoa Salad is full of fresh veggies and crunchy peanuts, all tossed together with a creamy peanut dressing. It’s colorful, tasty, and perfect for lunch or dinner! I love how easy it is to whip up this salad. Just cook the quinoa, chop the veggies, and mix them together! Plus, the peanut dressing is so good that I might even use it on other dishes. Key Ingredients & Substitutions Quinoa: This is the star of the salad. It’s nutty and packed with protein. If you have dietary restrictions, you can substitute it with couscous, rice, or even … Read more

This Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad is a fun mix of flavors! With juicy chicken, crunchy veggies, and a tangy dressing, it’s a perfect meal for sunny days. I love how refreshing it is—great for lunch or a light dinner! Plus, it’s easy to whip up, so no one will blame you if you make it twice in one week! 😄 Key Ingredients & Substitutions Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this salad. If you’re looking for a meat alternative, try grilled shrimp or even cooked chickpeas for a plant-based option. Spices: Chili powder and cumin add great … Read more

This Broccoli Blueberry Salad is a colorful and crunchy dish that mixes fresh broccoli, sweet blueberries, and hearty chickpeas. It’s packed with flavors and is super healthy! Adding blueberries gives it a fun twist! I love how the sweet little berries pop in your mouth. It’s perfect for lunch or a side at dinner. Trust me, you’ll want to make it often! Key Ingredients & Substitutions Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are key for this salad’s crunch. If you can’t find fresh, frozen broccoli can work too; just thaw and drain it. I prefer using smaller florets for better texture. Blueberries: … Read more

This Mexican Corn Coleslaw is a colorful mix of crunchy cabbage, sweet corn, and zesty lime dressing. It’s refreshing and super easy to whip up for any meal! I love serving this slaw at barbecues. It adds a nice crunch to burgers and is perfect for hot days. Plus, it takes just minutes to make—what’s not to love? 😄 Key Ingredients & Substitutions Cabbage: I love the combo of green and purple cabbage for color and crunch. If purple cabbage isn’t available, you can stick to just green or even go for Napa cabbage for a different texture. Corn: Fresh … Read more

This tasty Low-Carb Broccoli Salad is a crunchy delight! With fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, and a creamy dressing, it’s a perfect side dish for any meal. If you’re like me and love bacon, this salad won’t disappoint. I could snack on it all day! Plus, it’s quick to whip up for potlucks or family dinners. Key Ingredients & Substitutions Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are the star. If you can’t find fresh, frozen broccoli works too. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well for the right texture. Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a savory touch. If you need a bacon … Read more

This Fall Harvest Steak Salad is a beautiful mix of tender steak, fresh greens, and yummy roasted veggies. The crunchy apples and nuts add a nice touch that makes each bite exciting! It’s like a cozy hug in salad form! I love it as a light dinner or a hearty lunch. Plus, it’s a great way to use those autumn veggies hanging around your kitchen! 🍂 Key Ingredients & Substitutions Flank or Sirloin Steak: Both cuts are great for this salad. Flank is more tender, while sirloin is a bit sturdier. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider grilling … Read more

This colorful Vegan Quinoa Salad is packed with tasty veggies and protein-rich quinoa. It’s fresh, healthy, and super easy to whip up for lunch or a side dish! I love how crunchy and vibrant this salad is. You can toss in whatever veggies you have on hand—it’s like a party in a bowl! 🎉 Perfect for meal prep too! Key Ingredients & Substitutions Quinoa: This is the star of the salad, rich in protein and fiber. If you’re unable to find quinoa, you can substitute it with farro, bulgur, or couscous for a different texture and flavor. Chickpeas: They add … Read more

This marinara sauce is the key to a tasty pasta night. Made with juicy tomatoes, fresh garlic, and herbs, it’s simple yet bursting with flavor! Who knew making great sauce could be so easy? I love tossing it with my favorite noodles. It’s like giving pasta a warm hug. Try not to eat it all by the spoonful! 😂 Key Ingredients & Substitutions Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This is essential for flavor. You can use regular olive oil, but extra virgin gives a richer taste. Sunflower or avocado oil are suitable alternatives if you’re looking for a different flavor profile. … Read more

This Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad is fresh and crunchy! It mixes sliced cucumbers, creamy avocado, and sweet crab meat for a taste of sunny California. This salad is perfect as a side dish or a light snack. I love how quick it is to whip up — just chop, mix, and enjoy. It’s like having sushi in a bowl! 🍣😋 Key Ingredients & Substitutions Cucumbers: For the best crunch, use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers. They have thinner skins and fewer seeds. If you’re in a pinch, regular cucumbers work too, just peel them for a better texture. Imitation … Read more

This colorful Mediterranean lentil salad is packed with fresh veggies, herbs, and protein-rich lentils. It’s a healthy, tasty mix that makes a perfect side dish or light lunch!