Pop Pop’s Spaghetti and Meatballs

There are some recipes you never change. Recipes that are shared from generation to generation bringing with them memories of family meals filled with stories and laughter. These are the recipes that elevate our health more than a kale salad or a tofu burger. My dad (Pop Pop) made this recipe for as long as…

Happy New Year with Pork and Sauerkraut

For many families, pork and sauerkraut is a traditional New Year’s day meal. I can’t remember a New Year’s day without it. I make this dish once a year using a lean pork loin instead of a pork roast and add onions and apples to cut the saltiness of the kraut.

Lentil, Sausage and Spinach Stew

Even though this heartwarming stew contains meat, it builds its protein heft from lentils. The sausage plays a background role, just enough to add a spicy richness without overwhelming the healthfulness of the dish. Cooking healthy is not an all or nothing proposition. Sometimes just the right amount of a heavier, richer ingredient can elevate…

Sausage, Mushroom and Butternut Squash with Ribbon Noodles

This is a hearty but healthy dish for those cold winter nights. The richness of flavor allows for some lighter ingredient substitutions. You can use less sausage because the mushrooms are an excellent stand in for meat and the herbs add a pop of fresh flavor. Butternut squash is a nutrient powerhouse providing a good…

Nacho Pepper Bites

Who doesn’t want a healthier way to enjoy nachos? By swapping out the chips for mini bell peppers and replacing high fat meat with lean ground beef or turkey, you get all the flavors of nachos without all the saturated fat and extra calories. As an added bonus, you’re getting a host of nutrients from…

Football Tailgate Beef Stew

Fall + football = hearty beef stew. This recipe feeds 8-10 people so it’s perfect for a tailgate or for serving those fans that gather in your family room. I love it because although it’s hearty, it’s made with lean beef, lots of veggies and simple seasonings. Plan to start this early because it will…

Broiled Lamb Loin Chops with Rosemary, Olive Oil and Lemon

I’m not a vegetarian but I seldom eat red meat. My protein sources are mostly seafood, eggs, tofu, nuts and beans. I try to practice what I preach which is very simple, quoting author Michael Pollan, “Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants”. However, my husband and son love to have lamb over the holidays so…

Apricot Glazed Pork Tenderloin

Pork tenderloin is a good choice for a lean, fast cooking protein. This recipe is simple with only 3 ingredients: pork tenderloin, whole grain mustard, and apricot preserves. In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of whole grain mustard and 1/4 cup of apricot preserves. Rub the pork tenderloin with a small amount of…