My main reason for wanting to be “dry” in January is to see if it improves my sleep. This is a struggle I’ve had for several years. As a registered dietitian, I know that sleep impacts hormones, raising cortisol and throwing off blood sugar. I believe that alcohol could be the reason for my frequent 3 a.m. wake-ups.

Taking a month-long break from drinking seemed like a reasonable way to evaluate if alcohol is the cause.Here’s what I’ve learned so far!

What is Dry January?

Dry January is simply not drinking for the month of January. Some people use this month as a reset period after overdoing it during the holidays. Others are “sober curious.” Dry January can be a way to determine if they want to make it a lifestyle beyond the first month.

Many of us are looking to have healthier habits in the new year. Cutting back on alcohol is a great way to improve your health, get better sleep, lose weight and even save money.

My Experience with Dry January

I’m two weeks into Dry January and staying strong with my goals. This is what I’ve discovered, day by day:

Day 1

The few days of the year it was fairly easy to abstain after a champagne-fueled New Year’s Eve party. I didn’t even think about drinking as the year began to ramp up.

Day 5

I attended a book club meeting and the host wanted to make a “warm boozy drink” that everyone could enjoy. I spoke up and requested an alcohol-free version for those of us doing Dry January. Turns out I wasn’t the only one who was looking for that option. The host ended up serving hot chocolate with lots of toppings. I enjoyed my cocoa and the inspirational conversation without the booze!

Day 6

This is when things became more challenging, as there always seems to be an opportunity to drink on weekends. I had tickets to a monster truck show, and there’s nothing I love more than beer and monster trucks. I asked my husband to get me a diet cola and was surprised that the rest of our group also chose nonalcoholic drinks to enjoy during the show. I started a trend!

After the show, we went out to eat as a family. This was the hardest time so far because typically my husband and I like to enjoy a few drinks at dinner. Luckily, The Cheesecake Factory has quite a tasty selection of mocktails, which was enough to take the edge off. It was nice to be able to wake up clear-headed on Sunday morning.

I was proud of myself that I made it through my first weekend alcohol-free!

Day 10

I read that it takes 10 days for alcohol to completely get out of your system. I hoped that by now I would be sleeping or feeling better and I can’t say I feel that different. I was still up at 2 a.m.

Day 12

For a successful second weekend without alcohol, I did a few things to make it easier to abstain. I turned down an invitation to a party that’s typically fueled with wine and instead brought my kids to a pinewood derby event on Friday night. I invited some neighbors over on Saturday who are not big drinkers. Being around others that don’t drink has helped me stay on track. Plus, they’re fun to hang out with!

Day 14

I’m proud of myself for abstaining from alcohol for two full weeks. I’ve had time to evaluate the moments I “need a drink.” It has helped me question if those thoughts are really true or if I’m just drinking out of habit.

I’ve been surprised by the number of people who told me that they too want to cut back, but feel pressured to drink socially. There’s a lot of stigma in admitting you want to abstain from alcohol, although it shouldn’t be this way. But friends seemed more than happy to abstain with me when I said I wasn’t drinking. I believe that people are afraid of others thinking they “have a problem” with drinking or being judged. Taking a break doesn’t mean you have a problem; in fact, you should be applauded for doing it!

I’ve made it this far, so I plan on finishing the last two weeks of Dry January. I’m not sure of the role of alcohol in my life moving forward, but right now I’m taking things one day at a time. Making decisions about whether I will drink at an event in the future seems overwhelming. But I know that I can make it through social events, book clubs and dinners out without alcohol, which has given me more confidence. And the realization that many friends feel the same way about alcohol and want to drink less empowers me to think about ways we could hang out withoutbooze.

Dry January Benefits

This month has many physical, mental and even financial benefits. Here are a few:

• Improved overall health. Alcohol is a toxin and a Group 1 carcinogen. Avoiding alcohol improves liver function, reduces cholesterol, lowers the risk of high blood pressure and reduces your risk of many cancers.
• Weight loss. Alcohol consumption has been correlated with increased body weight. Alcohol itself is a source of calories, plus it also lowers your inhibitions making it easier to reach for unhealthy food.
• Better sleep. Alcohol can disrupt sleep, so it’s harder to reach the deep REM sleep that your body needs.
• Improved mood and reduced anxiety. Alcohol is a mood disruptor. Hangovers make you feel depressed, grouchy and anxious.
• Financial benefits. Not drinking can save you quite a bit of money. My husband was blown away at the cost of dinner out without any drinks!

Dry January can be a great way to feel and look better. Being 14 days in, I highly recommend taking a bit of time away from drinking on an annual basis. It can help you gain clarity around the role alcohol plays in your life. (It’s also fun to experiment with nonalcoholic spirits.)

Dry January Tips and Ideas

I’m two weeks into Dry January. This is advice I have for anyone tackling a sober month:

• Enlist support. You might be surprised at how many other people want to cut back on drinking. Be the leader in your social group!
• Take it one day at a time. It’s easy to get stressed about the future and your relationship with alcohol. Instead of trying to figure it all out at one, focus on not drinking today. Worry about tomorrow, tomorrow.
• Have a plan for triggering situations. Your cravings typically won’t last more than 15 minutes, so come up with a plan to get through them.
• BYOB. If you plan to attend a party, offer to bring nonalcoholic beer or nonalcoholic wineto share.

Nonalcoholic Drinks to Mix Up All Month

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Pomegranate Ginger SpritzerConveniently, a pitcher of this non-alcoholic beverage can be made hours before holiday guests arrive. Add the club soda just before serving. Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Sunshine Lime RickeyThis is my re-creation of the lime rickey sodas served at my favorite burger place. I even tried a version using my own homemade bitters. Shelly Bevington, Hermiston, Oregon

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Tropical CoolerWith only four simple ingredients, this refreshing punch is easy to stir up in just 10 minutes. I served it at a party for my son, and everyone liked the slightly tart flavor. Robin Werner, Brush Prairie, Washington

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Watermelon SpritzerIt couldnt get much easier than this bright spritzer! Watermelon blended with limeade is cool and refreshing. Its a wonderful thirst-quencher on a hot summer day. Geraldine Saucier, Albuquerque, New Mexico

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Orange Blossom Mint RefresherI came up with this recipe because I'm not a fan of regular iced tea. This version has the perfect combination of freshness and sweetness, and the orange blossom water gives the tea a distinctive flavor. People always request the recipe. Juliana Gauss, Centennial, Colorado

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Pink Rhubarb PunchRhubarb is the featured ingredient in this blush-colored punch. A friend passed the recipe on to me, and we enjoy it so much that I thought others might, too. Rebecca Mininger, Jeromesville, Ohio

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Citrus & White Grape Juice Party PunchI was looking for a punch that wouldn't stain expensive prom dresses and tuxedos. Everyone loved this! You can mix the first four ingredients ahead of time, refrigerate and add the soda right before serving. Karen Ballance, Wolf Lake, Illinois

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Warm Cider Cranberry PunchI first made this at an instructional cooking camp. My kids loved it so much that, for a time, they insisted we make it every day. Serve it hot in the winter or with the ice during the summer. Carol Gehringer, Raleigh, North Carolina

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Mango Orange QuencherServe this beautiful beverage at your next brunch in place of mimosas. Just chill the base an hour before adding the club soda. Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Citrus Cider PunchI share this refreshing punch recipe with people who visit our apple cider mill. It's perfect for autumn and holiday gatherings. Carolyn Beck, St Johns, Michigan

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Scarlet SipperThis sweet, tart and slightly fizzy drink is a favorite for gatherings at our church. The bright color sets a festive tone, and the flavors blend seamlessly. Amber Goolsby, Geneva, Alabama

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Cranberry Cherry PunchThis crimson-colored beverage is wonderful for Christmas and looks festive in a glass punch bowl. Lori Daniels, Beverly, West Virginia

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Easy Citrus SlushOur churchs hostess committee has relied on this refreshing drink for bridal and baby showers and other events. We often use different flavors and colors of gelatin to match the decor of the occasion. Joy Bruce, Welch, Oklahoma

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Sparkling Coconut Grape JuiceThis sparkling drink is a nice change of pace from lemonade and party punch. The lime, coconut and grape combination is so refreshing. Add a splash of gin if you're feeling bold. Shelly Bevington, Hermiston, Oregon

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Pink Party PunchThis easy punch will be the highlight of any party. The fruity flavors blend perfectly together, making it impossible to have just one glass.Carol Garnett, Bellevue, Washington

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Warm Christmas PunchRed Hot candies add rich color and spiciness to this festive punch, and the cranberry juice gives it a little tang. Our children always request it for December brunches. —Julie Sterchi, Campbellsville, Kentucky

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Iced Honeydew Mint TeaI grow mint in the garden on my balcony. For this tea, I blend two of my favorite beveragesMoroccan mint tea and honeydew agua fresca. Sarah Batt Throne, El Cerrito, California

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Beat the heat with this watermelon agua fresca.

Lemony Fruit CoolerThis punch looks so pretty with all the colorful fruit floating in the bowl. It has a refreshing taste and is easy to put together. Dawn Shackelford, Fort Worth, Texas

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Lemony Pineapple Iced TeaI like to garnish this iced tea with some of our sweet Hawaiian pineapple. Beverly Toomey, Honolulu, Hawaii

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Cranberry FizzWith just five basic ingredients, this wonderfully tangy punch couldn't be much simpler to stir together. Suzette Jury, Keene, California

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Cider WassailThis traditional wassail recipe came from a dear friend in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where we lived for many years. Because it's warm, wonderful and non-alcoholic, we've even served it at church. This wassail drink is also perfect for a holiday open house. Maryellen Hays, Wolcottville, Indiana

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Rosemary LemonadeA friend suggested I add a sprig of rosemary to lemonade. The herb makes the drink taste fresh and light, and it's a pretty garnish. Dixie Graham, Rancho Cucamonga, California

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Strawberry Watermelon SlushWe like to relax on the back porch with glasses of my slush after a long, hot day. Strawberries and watermelon blend up with lemon juice and sugar for an instant refresher. Patty Howse, Great Falls, Montana

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Blackberry ShrubMaking a shrub recipe is a creative way to use up extra fruit all the way through Labor Day. We were inspired by sampling the house-made shrubs at a restaurant in California. They are as colorful and refreshing as summer drinks should be. —Gina Nistico, Denver, Colorado

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Peach-Basil CoolerMix peaches and basil with club soda for a cool and refreshing mocktail! Dana Hinck, Pensacola, Florida

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Cranberry LimeadeWhen cranberry and lime juice get together, the result is thirst-quenching. Add ice and youve got a party in a glass. Michael Passow, Poughkeepsie, New York

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Watermelon-Lime CoolerWhen temps heat up, chill some glasses and cool down with a slushy blend of watermelon, lime and ginger ale. Slurp and repeat. Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Rainbow SpritzerLayers of colorful fruit submerged in a fizzy, sweet beverage make this a kid-friendly sipper that gets two thumbs-up. Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Blackberry LemonadeHere's a special drink that's perfect when blackberries are in season. It has a tangy, refreshing flavor. Rich Murray, Nevada, Missouri

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Rhubarb Citrus PunchRhubarb grows abundantly in our large farm garden. I'll make this punch for summertime gatherings or for special occasions with our extended family. Ina Frey, St. Clemens, Ontario

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Sparkling Peach BellinisFolks will savor the subtle kiss of peach flavor in this elegant brunch beverage. Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Raspberry RefresherThis recipe explodes with raspberry flavor! It's a wonderful summertime treat.Doreen Patterson, Qualicum Beach, British Columbia

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Citrus PunchThis zesty punch is a refreshing addition to my holiday table. I love its fruity flavor and the bright sunshiny color. You can easily double the recipe if you're expecting a larger group. Dianne Conway, London, Ontario

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Raspberry Iced TeaOne sip and you'll likely agree that this is the best flavored tea you've ever tasted. Chris Wilson, Sellersville, Pennsylvania

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Red and Blue Berry Lemonade SlushThis delightfully sweet-tart beverage showcases fresh raspberries and blueberries. Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Orange Juice SpritzerHeres a zippy twist on regular orange juice. It is not too sweet and is refreshing with any breakfast or brunch entree. Michelle Krzmarzick, Torrance, California

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Iced Melon Moroccan Mint TeaI grow mint on my balcony, and this refreshing beverage is a wonderful way to use it. It combines two of my favorite drinksMoroccan Mint Tea and Honeydew Agua Fresca. For extra flair, add some ginger ale. Sarah Batt Throne, El Cerrito, California

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Rhubarb Mint TeaA bumper crop of rhubarb and mint from my garden inspired me to create this thirst-quenching pick-me-up. Raspberries deepen the tea's vibrant red color, making the drinks a pretty addition to your table. Laurie Bock, Lynden, Washington

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Blueberry Lime SlushMy husband's family makes a cranberry beverage for the holidays. I changed it up and serve it this way in winter and summer, when blueberries are in season. Rebecca Bratsman, Tacoma, Washington

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Apricot Lemonade Iced TeaEvery special occasion deserves a refreshing beverage (and a lovely punch bowl). Our tea has a tangy flavor from lemonade, apricot nectar and mint. Kay Chon, Sherwood, Arkansas

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The post I’m Halfway Through Dry January, Here’s What I’ve Experienced So Far appeared first on Taste of Home.

What Is a Blue Zone?

A blue zone is an area of the world where people consistently live to over 100 years old. Even better, people don’t just live to 100 but they live well and without the burden of chronic disease.

Dan Buettner and his team of scientists discovered the blue zones during a National Geographic expedition in partnership with the National Institute on Aging. Fortunately for us, we don’t have to travel to these zones (though we’d love to!) in order to reap the health benefits of those communities. We can learn from their lifestyles and start incorporating their healthy behaviors right away.

Blue Zone Map

The five blue zones include:

• Sardinia: An island off the coast of Italy with the world’s longest-living men.

• Okinawa: South Pacific islands with the world’s longest-living women.

• Loma Linda: An area of California where people live about 10 years longer than the average American.

• Nicoya: A district in Costa Rica where people eat very little processed foods.

• Ikaria: An Aegean island where people live an average of 8 years longer than most Americans do

What Is the Blue Zone Diet?

First, the blue zone diet is not a diet at all but rather a way of life. This well-rounded lifestyle includes daily activity, close relationships and healthy eating.

Plant Slant

One of the biggest takeaways from the Blue Zone diet is the importance of a plant-based diet. People who live in blue zones eat a wide variety of plants like beans, vegetables, fruits and whole grains. People in the blue zones tend to eat very little meat, just about five servings per month.

If you’re thinking that this plant-forward approach sounds a lot like the Mediterranean diet, you’re right. These two eating plans are similar and focus on vegetables, whole grains, plant-based proteins and healthy fats.

Start by incorporating some of these healthy vegetarian recipes into your dinner routine.

80% Rule

In addition to eating healthy foods, people in blue zones eat slightly less food than many of us. People living healthfully into their hundreds tend to follow the 80% rule, which means that they stop eating once they are 80% full rather than feeling stuffed.

People in these regions tend to eat their smallest meal of the day in the late afternoon or early evening and are then finished eating for the day.

Celebration

Perhaps the most impactful eating habit of people in the blue zones is how they view their food. In many of these zones, food is a celebration and a reason to gather with loved ones.

People in blue zones report a sense of tribe and belonging. They spend every day with loved ones and surround themselves with friends who support them. Studies show that high levels of social interaction can lead to improved heart health.

Takeaway

When we learn about a new healthy study or trend, it’s natural to want to go all in. The Blue Zone diet contains a variety of tips that could improve your health and well-being. However, remember that using the Blue Zone plan does not have to be all-or-nothing.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the best way to invest in health is through policy. This means that many of these factors are bigger than us and our individual decisions. Living in a community with walking paths and farmers’ markets makes it a lot easier to incorporate healthy changes into your lifestyle. No matter if your investments in your health are personal or on a larger scale, remember to be kind to yourself as you start to tweak your lifestyle choices.

The post What Is the Blue Zone Diet—and How Can It Help You Live to 100? appeared first on Taste of Home.

Green beans are a delicious and healthy side dish loaded with nutrients. They’re a good source of fiber and protein, which can help lower cholesterol. They’re also rich in antioxidants that fight inflammation in the body.

While raw vegetables are often the healthiest way to go, don’t reach for a raw green bean just yet.

Is it safe to eat raw green beans?

Not really. Green beans are one of those foods that you shouldn’t eat raw. That’s because green beans contain lectin, a protein that protects them from insects and fungi.

Lectin is helpful during the growing process but isn’t healthy for us to consume. It is resistant to digestive enzymes which means that our bodies can’t break it down like we do other foods.

When you eat raw green beans, the lectin in them binds to the surface of the cells in your digestive tract. This can lead to stomach upset like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and bloating. Consuming a large amount of lectin could even damage the good bacteria in your gut.

Biting into one raw green bean likely won’t cause any issues. You’d have to eat a large amount to start feeling the digestive problems from lectin.

What are the best ways to cook green beans?

So, how should you cook green beans? It’s best to avoid boiling them because boiling can zap their nutrient content.

When preparing green beans, start by washing them and trimming the tough ends. Here are four simple ways to cook green beans.

• Steam and saute: Steam green beans with water in a covered pan, then drain the water and saute them with butter or oil.
• Blanch and shock: Cook green beans in boiling water for a few minutes (this is called blanching), then place them in cold water to stop the cooking.
• Roast: Toss green beans with olive oil, salt and pepper and roast them at 425F for 10 minutes.
• Instant Pot: Toss your clean green beans and a cup of water into your pressure cooker, then sit back and relax.

If you’ve ever tasted plain, cooked green beans, you know they need some help in the flavor department. Start by adding a little fat with butter or olive oil. Then season with salt and pepper. For an extra kick, try ginger, dill, thyme or garlic.

Our Best Green Bean Recipes

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Spring Pea & Radish SaladWinters can be very long here in New Hampshire. I always look forward to the first veggies of spring and making some lighter dishes like this fresh salad. Jolene Martinelli, Derry, New Hampshire

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Grilled Green BeansI cook almost everything outdoors, including grilled green beans. I prepare this snappy side dish while the entree is cooking. The recipe has won over my picky eaters. Carol Traupman-Carr, Breinigsville, Pennsylvania

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Lemony Almond-Feta Green BeansWhen you find a vegetable recipe that demands second helpings, it's definitely worth sharing. I made these green beans for a dinner party, and that's exactly what happened! I like to use haricots verts, the skinny type of green bean. Samantha Bowman, Houston, Texas

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Roasted Potato & Green Bean SaladI made this salad to take advantage of seasonal potatoes, onions and green beans. Its a perfect twist on the tangy German potato salad my mom used to make. Readers of my blog, The Seasoned Mom, are big fans. Blair Lonergan, Rochelle, Virginia

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Fresh Green Bean SaladI had a green bean salad at a local deli and enjoyed it so much that I tried to re-create it at home. The result was yummy! It lasts for several days in the fridge, and the taste keeps getting better. Allison Brooks, Fort Collins, Colorado

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Green Beans and Radish Salad with Tarragon PestoWhichever way my garden grows, I usually build my salad with green beans, radishes and a pesto made with tarragon. That adds a hint of licorice. Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia

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Lemony Green BeansYou can throw together this dish in minutes using ingredients you probably already have on hand. Thats the beauty of it. Jennifer Tarantino, Rutherford, New Jersey

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Green Beans in Red Pepper SauceFor easy veggies, I make a simple sauce of sweet red peppers, almonds and parsley. We also like this sauce with zucchini or roasted cauliflower. Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah

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Old-Fashioned Green BeansMom would prepare home-grown green beans using this recipe, and boy did they ever taste good. The bacon provides rich flavor and the brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness. This is one irresistible side dish. Willa Govoro, St. Clair, Missouri

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Creamed Green BeansA family favorite for years, this special green bean recipe is a cinch to double and can be assembled ahead of time. When my nephews are coming for dinner, its an absolute must! Betty Shaw, Weirton, West Virginia

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Roasted Green Beans with Lemon & WalnutsI first tasted roasted green beans in a Chinese restaurant and fell in love with the texture and flavor. This is my Americanized version and it's always a big hit at our holiday table. Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia

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Balsamic Three-Bean SaladHere's my little girl's favorite salad. She devours it just about as fast as I can make it. I suggest preparing it ahead of time so the flavors can get to know each other. —Stacey Feather, Jay, Oklahoma

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Ranch Green BeansYears ago, I discovered this handwritten recipe on a note card and decided to give it a try. It's deliciously different from the usual green bean casserole and quickly became a favorite. Carol Conn, Aurora, Colorado

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Slow-Cooked Green BeansI spent hours in search of sides for a cooking demo to present to women from my church. These easy green beans became my star attraction. Alice White, Willow Spring, North Carolina

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German-Style Cabbage and BeansThis is one of my greatest hits for a potluck dish at church suppers. If you use some red cabbage, it will have very festive colors, light pink with green. It looks so pretty. Winifred Winch, Wetmore, Michigan

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Saucy Green Bean BakeHere's a different way to serve green beans. It's a nice change of pace from plain vegetables. June Formanek, Belle Plaine, Iowa

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Green Beans with ShallotsA package of frozen green beans makes these dill-icious green beans a fast and tasty accompaniment to almost any main course. Linda Rabbit, Charles City, Iowa

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Green Bean SaladThis cold green bean salad makes the perfect side dish, starring green beans, a simple vinaigrette and feta cheese.

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Southern Green Beans with ApricotsGreen beans and apricots have become a family tradition. Enhanced with balsamic vinegar, this dish will make your taste buds pop. Ashley Davis, Easley, South Carolina

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Tomato-Onion Green BeansFresh green beans are the stars of this healthy side. Serve with grilled chicken, pork tenderloin or seafood for a delicious end to a busy day. David Feder, Buffalo Grove, Illinois

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Green Bean and Potato SaladFor family reunions, my mom would make everybody's favorite green bean and potato salad. Now I'm the one who brings it. Connie Dicavoli, Shawnee, Kansas

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Zesty Garlic Green BeansThese green beans travel so well because they can either be served at room temperature or reheated at the party. Christine Bergman, Suwanee, Georgia

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Green Bean CasseroleIf green bean casserole is your go-to Thanksgiving side dish, why not make it more often? The creamy, crunchy dish is an easy make-ahead recipe that goes well with a variety of meals.

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Pickled Green BeansMake your summer produce go the extra mile with this easy pickled green beans recipe. We'll walk you through every step of making this tasty snack.

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Fabulous Green BeansMy family loves this buttery sauce over green beans, whether theyre garden fresh or frozen. Another greeny option: Try sugar snap peas. Lori Daniels, Beverly, West Virginia

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Garlic-Sesame Green BeansSauteed bits of garlic and shallot, with a sprinkling of toasted sesame seeds, turn ordinary beans into something special. Keep the recipe in mind for your garden crop in summer. Deirdre Cox, Kansas City, Missouri

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Italian Artichoke-Green Bean CasseroleMy mother and I made a few small changes to a recipe we found in a cookbook to create this comforting side dish. We increased the vegetable count and tossed in some seasonings to take the flavor up a notch. It's definitely not your average green bean casserole. Denise Klibert, Shreveport, Louisiana

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Tangy Bacon Green BeansMy grandmothers Pennsylvania Dutch-style recipe turns plain old green beans into a tangy cross between three-bean and German potato salads. Sharon Tipton, Casselberry, Florida

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Pepper Parmesan BeansA colorful mixture of peppers and green beans gets an Italian treatment with basil and Parmesan cheese in this delightful vegetable dish. The garlic adds a savory zip. Marian Platt, Sequim, Washington

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Warm Green Bean & Potato SaladThe combination of green beans and red potatoes, sometimes known as green beans Pierre, is one of my go-to side dishes. It's terrific with chicken. Preci D'Silva, Dubai

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Hungarian-Style Green BeansA vacation to Hungary inspired this flavorful side of green beans with paprika and mushrooms. Being a vegetarian, I welcome these tasty ideas. Sherry Johnston, Green Cove Springs, Florida

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Fresh Green Beans & GarlicI am a firm believer that fresh is best. I developed this recipe to take advantage of our garden veggies. It really shows off the full flavor of the green beans. Carol Mayer, Sparta, Illinois

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Lemon-Garlic Green Beans"My brother made this stove top side dish as his contribution to Christmas dinner one year. We liked it so much that it became a mainstay in our household. -Gail Orsillo of Lynnwood, Washington

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Bacon and Garlic Green BeansAdding white wine, lemon juice and garlic gives a little kick to green beans. It was enough to turn our old, traditional holiday side into a year-round favorite. Shannon Reynoso, Bakersfield, California

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Roasted Green Vegetable MedleyRoasting vegetables such as broccoli, green beans and Brussels sprouts is a fantastic way to serve them, and almost any veggie combo works. Suzan Crouch, Grand Prairie, Texas

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Beans n Caramelized OnionsBrown sugar, bacon and cider vinegar season this simple side. I often make it for family and friends, and it never fails to please!Jill Heatwole, Pittsville, Maryland

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Buttery Almond Green BeansToasted almonds add crunch to this no-fuss treatment for fresh beans. They get extra flavor from convenient onion soup mix and Parmesan cheese. Edna Hoffman, Hebron, Indiana

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Honey Garlic Green BeansGreen beans are a reliable standby, but they can seem ordinary on their own. Just a couple of extra ingredients give them a sweet and salty attitude. This is definitely my family's favorite way to enjoy them. Shannon Dobos, Calgary, Alberta

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Roasted Green Bean SaladThis easy recipe turns homegrown green beans into something special. A tangy dill and Dijon vinaigrette coats the beans without overpowering them so the fresh-picked flavor comes through. Kathy Shell, San Diego, California

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Spiced Green BeansThese yummy green beans have just the right amount of kick to spice up any meal. Howard Pierce, Naperville, Illinois

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The post Can You Eat Raw Green Beans? appeared first on Taste of Home.

When I discovered the famed Stanley Quencher Tumbler, its special featureslike a sturdy handle and strawquickly caught my eye. But what exactly is it that has the internet hooked? Here’s my honest Stanley Tumbler review.

What is the Stanley Quencher Tumbler?

At first glance, the Stanley Quencher Tumbler looks like any other large water bottle. But let me be the first (or 100th) person to tell you it’s so much more than a water bottle. The 40-ounce capacity ensures you drink eight glasses a dayand then some. It comes with a straw and sturdy handle for transporting. The beautiful colorways make it an accessory you’re proud to flaunt, but what really sets this bottle apart is the fact that it fits in car cupholders. That alone is one of the reasons it continues racking up loyal fans.

VIA MERCHANT

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Stanley 40 oz. Quencher Tumbler

You'll never be parched again thanks to this oversized tumbler that keeps beverages ice cold.

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Why Is the Stanley Quencher Tumbler Trending?

As silly as it sounds, there’s a specific side of the internet dedicated to learning about the benefits of drinking water, and with that comes talk about the best water bottles. One of the main reasons the internet fell madly in love with the Stanley Tumbler is the fact that it fits snugly inside car cupholders. No more spilled water from speed bumps or sharp turns!

The Stanley Quencher Tumbler features other smart details like two drinking options (straw or spout), a sturdy handle and stunning color options. In a video posted by @MissCarinaB, she sums up all the things the internet loves about little miss Stanley. Meanwhile, #StanleyTumbler has garnered more than 780 million views to date.

Need more proof? It’s so popular it hasn’t stopped selling out since it went viral. If it’s sold out when you read this, bookmark the page so you can check again in a few days. Stanley is restocking these tumblers as quickly as possible, so don’t give up on trying to get your hands on one. Trust me: it’s worth it!

@misscarinab

Have you tried the @Stanley 1913 tumbler?? #stanley #tumbler #stanleypartner

Aesthetic Girl – Yusei

Stanley Quencher Tumbler Features

The Stanley Quencher Tumbler is trending for many reasons, not the least of which are a few key features that make it stand out from other drinking vessels. The Stanley Quencher Tumbler keeps beverages cold, so much so that the ice in your drinks might not melt, even if left overnight. It’s easy to drink through the straw or the spout, fits nicely in your car or treadmill’s cupholder and has a nice handle. It comes in an ever-increasing assortment of colors, and it’s dishwasher-safe. What’s not to love?

How We Tested It

I got my pink Stanley Quencher Tumbler in December 2022. Upon its arrival, I was intrigued to discover it was much larger in person than on screen. I’ve had other 40-ounce water bottles before, but the slim yet tall Stanley design was a pleasant surprise. I thoroughly rinsed it with warm, soapy water, dried it off and filled the bottle with ice and water.

To truly test what the cup was capable of, I took it on all my everyday adventures: working from home, exercising at the gym, outdoor walks and running errands. I always keep a tall glass of cold water at the ready while I work from home because it’s important to stay hydrated throughout the day. But when I made the switch from a regular water glass to the 40-ounce Stanley Tumbler, I found it ten times easier to drink more than enough water.

What’s more, I only have to fill my tumbler once in the morning and one more time in the afternoon to meet my hydration goals. The best part? My water never goes warmeven after eight hours. The trick is making sure ice is added to the bottle at some point in the morning. I found that the ice tends to melt by the end of the day, but water truly stays cold for several hours, which is personally all I care about.

Another attractive feature of the Stanley is the fact that it comes with a straw and wide drinking spout for people who prefer to drink straight out of the bottle. The lid has a horizontal top that easily sets which way the water comes out. Taking the straw out, I twisted the top to open the wide drinking spout. I tested the tumbler like this for a few days until reverting back to drinking from the straw. The bottle is somewhat heavy when it’s filled to the top, so tilting it slightly to pour the water into my mouth wasn’t as easy (or fun) as drinking out of the straw.

As for traveling and running errands with the Stanley Quencher Tumbler, it depends on your method of travel. When I lived in a city and relied solely on walking, there were some hiccups with my Stanley Tumbler tests. During walks to the gym and running errands, I found it wasn’t the ideal companion when traveling on foot. This is solely because the lid isn’t 100% leakproof when using the straw. Even with the straw removed and the lid locked, a few streams of water trickle out the top. Plus, the only way to hold it while traveling on foot is the handle, and it gets heavy after a while of holding it upright.

However, since moving out of the city in June 2023 and finally having access to a car, I’ve discovered a whole new love for my Stanley Tumbler. Sure, the most attractive feature is the fact that it fits perfectly in car cup holders. But the real kicker is having enough icy cold water by my side for hours and not having to refill it over and over again on road trips or while running errands.

Traveling through the airport is a different story (the bottle is hard to fit in backpack side pockets), but luckily there are some Stanley cup accessories that solve this problem. This is officially the only large-capacity water bottle I own that fits in car cupholders, and for that, I say it’s a successful investment. (On top of keeping water cold for eight hours, of course!)

Pros

• Large 40-ounce capacity
• Fits in car cupholders
• Sturdy handle
• Keeps water cold for eight hours
• Two sipping options: straw and spout
• Double-wall vacuum insulation
• Dishwasher-safe
• Multiple pretty color options

Cons

• Lid isn’t 100% leakproof
• Not the most travel-friendly if you walk everywhere
• Ice melts after a few hours, but water still remains cold for eight hours

FAQ

Why is the Stanley Tumbler so popular?

Because people love good-looking water bottles that help them drink half their body weight in ounces per day! Plus, not every large-capacity water bottle fits car cupholders like the Stanley Tumbler. They really thought of all the things people need in a water bottle and engineered it into a cup that’s as chic as it is functional.

Is the Stanley Tumbler worth it?

In my experience, yes, it’s 100% worth it. Everyone needs a water bottle companion to keep them hydrated, and Stanley more than gets the job done.

How often do they restock Stanley Tumblers?

For the most part, the tumblers are restocked about every month.

What Other Shoppers Had to Say

Just take it from verified Stanley purchaser Emily C. when she says it’s the “best purchase Ive made in a long time. I definitely fell for the ‘TikTok made me buy it,’ but Im okay with that because this cup is the bomb. I literally bring it with me everywhere. Id say the only downside to it is that its heavy, but I couldn’t care less about that. I drink so much more water with this! Side note: I dropped this at least three times already and it still looks good as new with the exception of one minor knick in the coating from where it fell on that side. Super durable!”

“Easiest way to stay hydrated!” raves Carmen C., a verified Stanley purchaser. “Its always so hard to make sure I drink enough water throughout the day so this makes it super easy. It goes everywhere with me.”

“Absolutely love this tumbler!” adds verified purchaser Ashley H. “The soft matte material is great too! I get so many compliments. I use this tumbler every day. It’s super easy to clean and would definitely recommend the styles with a handle.”

Product Comparison

When it comes down to materials and construction, the Stanley Tumbler is super similar to Yeti and Hydro Flask. Each one of these water bottles boasts a stainless steel interior with double-wall vacuum insulation. Meaning, the bottles keep hot and cold liquids at the optimal temperature for several hours.

I’ve used an 18-ounce Yeti water bottle (not the tumbler style) and a 32-ounce Hydro Flask for years. The only big difference between each of the three bottles is the overall design and special features. The sturdy handle, straw and slim profile that fits in car cupholders are what sets the Stanley apartand for the better.

Final Verdict

Since December 2022, I’ve relied on my Stanley Tumbler for (almost) all of my hydration needs. Though it’s not my preferred companion while walking or hiking, it’s still the one I grab every single day while working from home, running errands in the car or on road trips. What’s more, I didn’t know a handle was an important water bottle feature until now. Little miss Stanley is basically my best friend at this point.

Where to Buy the Stanley Quencher Tumbler

Find the 40-ounce Stanley Quencher Tumbler on the brand’s website where it goes for $45. The tumbler isalso available at Amazon, Targetand Dick’s Sporting Goods in limited color options.

As the internet’s most coveted water bottle, we recommend claiming yours before it goes out of stock! Trust me, drinking eight glasses a day has never felt better. Don’t forget to snag these water bottle-cleaning tablets to keep them fresh all day long!

VIA MERCHANT

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Stanley 40 oz. Quencher Tumbler

Whether you're in the car, at the gym or working from home, you'll want to take this tumbler with you everywhere you go.

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The post We Tried the Internet’s Favorite Water Bottle—Here’s Our Honest Review appeared first on Taste of Home.

If you’re looking for a small but mighty nutritional powerhouse that’s easy to snack on or add to a variety of dishes, then look no further than the humble pumpkin seed. And if you’re only indulging in these tasty oval-shaped seeds during Halloween season, don’t forget that they’re available for year-round enjoyment at your local grocery storeall the yum, without having to stick your arm elbow-deep into a pumpkin.

Pumpkin Seed Nutrition Facts

One ounce of pumpkin seeds without shells, which is a standard serving size, yields the following nutritional benefits:

• Calories: 163
• Fat: 13.9 grams
• Protein: 8.45 grams
• Total Carbohydrates: 4.17 grams
• Fiber: 1.84 grams
• Potassium: 223 mg
• Folate: 16.2
• Phosphorous: 332 mg
• Magnesium: 156 mg
• Vitamin K: 223 mg
• Selenium: 2.66 g
• Lutein and zeaxanthin: 8.5 g
• Zinc: 2.17 mg

4 Health Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds

“Pumpkin seeds are high in healthy fats, protein, fiber, iron, vitamin E, zinc, manganese, magnesium and copper,” says registered dietitian Ana Reisdorf, MS, RD. “They are a great source of minerals in the diet.” And those key nutrients help make pumpkin seeds an essential food for protecting your health in the following ways:

Natural Sleep and Stress Aid

If you’re having trouble with sleepfrom occasional sleepless nights to insomniaa dose of pumpkin seeds may be the perfect bedtime snack. These little seeds are rich in magnesium and also contain a little tryptophan, a one-two punch for anyone needing more ZZZs. Magnesium has long been touted as a natural sleep aid because it helps increase relaxation and reduce stress.

Prostate Health and Fertility

As men age, their risk for prostate problems increasesbut pumpkin seeds may help stave off common issues. Why? Because they are rich in zinc, a mineral prostates need adequate amounts of for optimal health. For instance, a 2011 study of prostate tissue showed that men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH, aka prostate gland enlargement) had significantly less zinc levels. Another study shows that supplementing with pumpkin seed oil could be a clinically safe and effective alternative medicine treatment for BPH.

Additionally, the zinc in pumpkin seeds is associated with sperm countone study shows that poor zinc nutrition may be a risk factor for low quality of sperm and infertility.

Reduced Breast Cancer Risk

Studies show that the lignanscompounds found in plants that mimic estrogenin pumpkin seeds may help prevent or treat breast cancer. A large study of nearly 3,000 breast cancer patients and more than 5,000 women without the disease provided evidence that the consumption of phytoestrogen-rich pumpkin seeds is associated with reducing the risk of breast cancer after menopause.

Heart Health

Keep your ticker in tip-top shape with a daily dose of pumpkin seeds. It appears that heart-health benefits are derived from pumpkin seed oil’s power to increase your body’s ability to generate nitric oxidethis, in turn, helps expand blood vessels and reduce the risk of plaque growth in your arteries. And the high fiber content of pumpkin seeds may also help lower cholesterol levels, as studies show that individuals who consume high amounts of dietary fiber can significantly reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease.

Drawbacks of Eating Pumpkin Seeds

While you may be tempted to eat more than an ounce of pumpkin seeds hoping it will yield even more healthy results, it’s not advised. This is especially true if you choose salted options and need to watch your sodium intake. Plus, “eating a lot of pumpkin seeds may cause gas or bloating due to the fiber they contain, but this will depend on your personal sensitivity to it,” explains Reisdorf.

Finally, because pumpkin seeds are high in calories relative to their volume, it can be easy to overeatso if you’re worried about weight, always measure your portions out with a kitchen scale instead of mindlessly snacking on these tiny treats.

How to Make Pumpkin Seeds and Use Them in Recipes

“I think packaged pumpkin seeds are much easier than scraping them out of a pumpkin,” says Reisdorf. But if you’re inclined to make them from scratch, follow this step-by-step guide to roasting pumpkin seeds. And feel free to jazz up your seeds with different flavors, such as mocha pumpkin seeds,sesame-garlic pumpkin seeds, spicy pumpkin seeds and even candied pumpkin seeds for a sweet version.

Besides snacking on a small handful, there are plenty of other ways to use pumpkin seeds in your meals. “Roasted or raw pumpkin seeds add a nice crunch to salads or soups,” says Reisdorf. “They can also be added to baked goods, chia pudding or even pieanything that needs a bit of crunch with a dose of nutrition.”

The post Are Pumpkin Seeds Good for You? appeared first on Taste of Home.

So what does that mean the next time you want to heat up some leftovers?

How to Tell if Plastic Is Microwave Safe

Luckily, it’s easy to tell what kinds of plastic are relatively safe for the microwave. The first thing to do is check your container for a microwave-safe label. If you can’t find one, check the number on the container. All plastic products are labeled with a number from 1 to 7 for recycling purposes.

What is the safest plastic to microwave?

Plastic labeled with the number 5 is the safest to microwaveit is resistant to high heat and won’t warp. Microwave-safe plastic is also free of BPA, a chemical that can be harmful to our health. (More on this later.)

What plastics should not be microwaved?

Avoid plastic containers labeled 3, 6 or 7these are never microwave safe. Single-use plastic is usually a no-go for the microwave, and most takeout containers fall into this category. And if the plastic isn’t labeled or the container has visible damage, it’s safest to skip the microwave in these cases, too.

Tips for Microwaving Plastic

Keep health concerns in mind

Why can’t you microwave just any old plastic container? As we mentioned before, plastic can contain BPA and phthalates, which help make it flexible and light, but can also be damaging to human healththey can disrupt our hormones and metabolism. When plastic is heated, it melts, allowing those chemicals to leach into the food.

Opt for plastic alternatives when covering

When looking for something to cover your food while reheating, bypass plastic wrap. Cover microwave-bound containers with parchment paper, a paper towel or a plateeven a microwave-safe paper plate. (Learn more about when you can put aluminum foil in the microwave.)

Ultimately, the best option is no plastic at all, because even the safest plastics can still leach chemicals when exposed to high enough heat, especially if heated many times. Put your food in a glass container or on a plate, and zap away!

Next Up: Here are things you shouldn’t put in the oven.

The post Can You Put Plastic in the Microwave? appeared first on Taste of Home.

Why Does My Stomach Grumble?

Stomach grumbling, known as borborygmus, is the sound of gas or food particles moving through your digestive tract.

When you eat, your intestines move food and liquid along by contracting and relaxing, a process known as peristalsis. Once the food has been digested, your intestines continue to move air along your digestive tract, creating rumbling sounds.

Stomach grumbles simply mean that you haven’t eaten in a while. Your intestines are always working to move food and air through your body. You’re more likely to hear sounds when you’re hungry because there’s no food in the intestines to muffle the noise.

So there you have itwhen you hear stomach grumbles, it just means that there is no food being digested. If you feel hungry, go ahead and enjoy a meal or snack, but just because your stomach is making its presence known does not mean that your body needs a large meal. Listen to your hunger, and eat what you need to feel satisfied.

Once you eat something, you’ll notice the sounds start to quiet down. Even just a quick snack or small meal could be enough to quiet your gurgles.

It’s important to note that a constant rumbling sound may mean that you’re experiencing a chronic gastrointestinal condition such as irritable bowel syndrome. If you also notice frequent bloating, constipation or diarrhea along with the gurgling sound, talk with your doctor.

Healthy Snacks for Serious Grumbles

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Chili-Lime Roasted ChickpeasTotal Time: 50 minutesMain Ingredients: Chickpeas, chili powder Level: Beginner

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Who needs chips? These addicting, crunchy chickpeas have just the right amount of zing and crunch.Looking for a lighter snack that's still a crowd pleaser? You've found it! These zesty, crunchy chickpeas will have everyone happily munching. Recipe contributor Julie Ruble, Charlotte, North Carolina

Chocolate HummusTotal Time: 10 minutesMain Ingredients: Chickpeas, unsweetened vanilla almond milk Level: Beginner

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This chocolate hummus is an indulgent take on the classic. Serve with fresh fruit for a simple and delicious snack.This chocolate hummus is a sweet twist on the traditional recipe. Plus, it's so easy to make with just a handful of healthy ingredients. I like to serve it with pretzels for a quick snack. Recipe contributor Catherine Ward, Mequon, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer Sweet Potato FriesTotal Time: 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Sweet potatoes, garlic powder Level: Beginner

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These air-fryer sweet potatoes are crispy and fried to perfection. Be careful not to eat all of these fries in one sitting, though!I can never get enough of these air-fryer sweet potato fries! Even though my grocery store sells them in the frozen foods section, I still love to pull sweet potatoes out of my garden and slice them up fresh! Recipe contributor Amber Massey, Argyle, Texas

Dried Fruit Energy BarsTotal Time: 1 hour 15 minutesMain Ingredients: Quinoa, medjool dates Level: Intermediate

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They're easy to make ahead and are packed with healthy ingredients to keep you awake and energized. Looking for more options? Try these healthy fruit snacks that are made from real fruit and will delight kids and parents alike!These dried fruit energy bars are the perfect breakfast option for busy people. They're easy to make ahead and jampacked with ingredients such as chia seeds, quinoa and oats, which will keep you fueled throughout the day. Recipe contributor Andrea Potischman, Menlo Park, California

Roasted Curry ChickpeasTotal Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Chickpeas, curry powder Level: Beginner

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Craving chips but don't want chips? This crunchy, savory snack is easy to make and is packed with flavor.We coated chickpeas with simple seasonings to make a low-fat snacking sensation. It rivals the types sold in stores, with just a few ingredients. Recipe contributor Taste of HomeTest Kitchen

Skinny Quinoa Veggie DipTotal Time: 35 minutesMain Ingredients: Black beans, quinoa, avocados Level: Beginner

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This veggie dip is loaded with nutrients and a ton of flavor. It may be "skinny" but no one will complain!Dont let the name fool you. This good-for-you recipe may appeal to an athlete in training, but it has plenty of flavor to satisfy everyone. We use crunchy cucumber slices for dippers. Recipe contributor Jennifer Gizzi, Green Bay, Wisconsin

Hard-Boiled EggsTotal Time: 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Eggs Level: Beginner

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Eat these hard-boiled eggs plain for a quick protein fix. Or add them to another dish to make it heartier.In the kitchen, it's important to start with something simple, like how to cook hard-boiled eggs. Use this egg recipe in plenty of dishes, or eat them plain for a quick protein fix. Recipe contributor Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Cucumbers with DillTotal Time: 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Cucumbers, dill Level: Beginner

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These cucumber slices are crisp and salty. Snack on these instead of potato chips for a cool snack.Sprinkling cucumber slices with salt and letting them stand in a colander draws out excess water so they stay crisp when set on a barbecue buffet. Try this cucumber dill salad alongside any grilled entree. Recipe contributor Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Healthy Peanut Butter CookiesTotal Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Creamy peanut butter, oat bran Level: Beginner

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These few ingredient cookies are quick and healthy. And who doesn't love peanut butter?Only four ingredients and one bowl are needed for these healthy peanut butter cookies. If you want to make this recipe gluten free, make sure the oat bran was made in a certified gluten-free facility. Recipe contributor Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Sesame-Garlic Pumpkin SeedsTotal Time: 45 minutesMain Ingredients: Pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, poppy seeds Level: Beginner

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This snack is perfect for road trips when you need something easy to snack on. All the different types of seeds add great texture and crunch to the mix.This "everything" mix of pumpkin seeds with other seeds and seasoning is a fun treata lively way to use the seeds left over from your Halloween jack-o-lantern! Recipe contributor Danielle Lee, West Palm Beach, Florida.

Three-Pepper GuacamoleTotal Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Jalapeo pepper, serrano pepper, avocados Level: Intermediate

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You can't go wrong with avocado when you're trying to eat a little healthier. Dip fresh cut veggies like carrots and celery in this guacamole that is just as good as what you get at a restaurant.If you're serious about guacamole, use a molcajete. The lava stone makes a big difference on the pepper paste and is fun for guests. Recipe contributor Laura Levy, Lyons, Colorado

Confetti QuinoaTotal Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Quinoa, broccoli, zucchini Level: Beginner

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This quinoa dish is simple to make with just a few ingredients! It's the perfect healthy snack when you want something to hold you over for a longer period of time.If you have never tried quinoa, start with my easy side, brimming with colorful veggies. I serve it with orange-glazed chicken. Recipe contributor Kim Ciepluch, Kenosha, Wisconsin

No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy BarsTotal Time: 10 minutesMain Ingredients: Peanut butter, honey, oats Level: Beginner

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These peanut energy bars are great for combatting your sweet tooth. They're also easy to make (and kid friendly, too!). Feel free to substitute the peanut butter with almond or sunflower butter if you have allergies.These peanut butter energy bars are made with natural ingredients, and there's no baking required! You can substitute sunflower seeds for the walnuts. Want more fiber? Add a little wheat germ. Recipe contributor Amy Crane, Richland, Michigan

Garbanzo-Stuffed Mini PeppersTotal Time: 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Chickpeas, sweet peppers Level: Beginner

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This vibrant snack looks great on a table. Impress your friends with this crunchy and filling treat.Mini peppers are so colorful and are the perfect size for a two-bite appetizer. They have all the crunch of pita chips but without the extra calories. Recipe contributor Christine Hanover, Lewiston, California

Watermelon CupsTotal Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Watermelon, cucumber, red onion Level: Intermediate

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The red and green color combination almost makes this appetizer look like Christmas. It pops in your mouth with sweet and savory flavors.This lovely appetizer is almost too pretty to eat! Sweet watermelon cubes hold a refreshing topping that showcases cucumber, red onion and fresh herbs. Recipe contributor Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Lime-Honey Fruit SaladTotal Time: 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Lime juice, apples, pears, honey, grapes Level: Beginner

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Hot summer days, meet your match. This fruit salad is light and refreshing with just the right amount of tang. Pack this healthy snack in bags if you're on the go.Nothing is more refreshing to me than a seasonal fruit salad enhanced with this simple honey-lime dressing. Recipe contributor Victoria Shevlin, Cape Coral, Florida

Cashew CheeseTotal Time: 1 hourMain Ingredients: Cashews, nutritional yeast Level: Intermediate

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This spreads one of the most underrated vegan ingredients, nutritional yeast. It tastes just like real cheese!Spread this vegan cashew cheese on crackers, layer it on a toasted bagel or serve it with fresh vegetables. It also makes a delicious, out-of-the-ordinary sandwich spread! Recipe contributor Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Stuffed Asiago-Basil MushroomsTotal Time: 35 minutesMain Ingredients: Portobello mushrooms, Asiago cheese, basil Level: Intermediate

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These stuffed mushrooms are delightful healthy snacks that will keep you feeling energized and satisfied throughout your busy day.Even if you don't like mushrooms, you will have to try them again with these pretty appetizers, which taste divine. For a main dish, double the filling and use large portobellos. Recipe contributor Lorraine Caland, Shuniah, Ontario

Quinoa with Peas and OnionTotal Time: 45 minutesMain Ingredients: Quinoa, onion, frozen peas Level: Intermediate

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This recipe might be simple, but it's packed with flavor. Quinoa is filling without making you feel heavy.Even picky eaters will love this protein-packed dish. If you have freshly shelled peas on hand, substitute them for the frozen. Recipe contributor Lori Panarella, Phoenixville, Pennsylvania

Garlic Garbanzo Bean SpreadTotal Time: 10 minutesMain Ingredients: Chickpeas, parsley, garlic Level: Beginner

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If you want to make a dip that's more unique, this bean dip is a quick and easy way to get more protein in. Use it with fresh veggies and even fruit for a sweet and salty flavor.My friends and family always ask me to make it. I guarantee youll be asked for the recipe. Recipe contributor Lisa Moore, North Syracuse, New York

Lemon Couscous with BroccoliTotal Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Broccoli, whole wheat couscous, lemon Level: Beginner

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Who says couscous can't be a snack? This delicious dish combines vegetables and a fresh dressing that everyone will love.I combined two recipes to create this side with broccoli and pasta. The splash of lemon adds nice flavor. Instead of toasted almonds, you could also sprinkle servings with grated Parmesan cheese. Recipe contributor Beth Dauenhauer, Pueblo, Colorado

Marinated ShrimpTotal Time: 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Jumbo shrimp, rosemary, garlic Level: Beginner

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If you're a seafood lover, this shrimp recipe is for you. Pop a few of these salty and satisfying shrimps in your mouth, and your cravings for junk food will be gone.My husband's aunt shared this recipe with me ages ago. Not only is it a Christmas Eve tradition in my home, but in the homes of our grown children as well. Recipe contributor Delores Hill, Helena, Montana

Simple GuacamoleTotal Time: 10 minutesMain Ingredients: Avocados, salsa Level: Beginner

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Time to start dipping. From crackers to cherry tomatoes, this simple dip will be a healthy snack go-to.Because avocados can brown quickly, its best to make this guacamole just before serving. If you have to make it a little in advance, place the avocado pits in the guacamole until ready to serve. Recipe contributor Heidi Main, Anchorage, Arkansas

Baked Pot Stickers with Dipping SauceTotal Time: 45 minutesMain Ingredients: Chicken breast, wonton wrappers, jalapeo pepper jelly Level: Advanced

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These cute pot stickers are a wonderful snack that hold a ton of flavor. And the dipping sauce? Insanely finger lickin' good.Twisting these wonton wrappers like little candies makes them fuss-free, and the dipping sauce is packed with sweet heat. Recipe contributor Taylor Marsh, Algona, Iowa

Roasted Peppers and CauliflowerTotal Time: 40 minutesMain Ingredients: Cauliflower, red peppers, Parmesan cheese Level: Beginner

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The seasoned, roasted peppers and cauliflower are great for dipping and snacking. They are healthy, fresh and beautifully crispy.Caramelization really enhances the flavors in this easy side dish. The seasoned, roasted peppers and cauliflower are just right with nearly any main course. Recipe contributor Cheryl Wilt, Eglon, West Virginia

Really Good Snack MixTotal Time: 55 minutesMain Ingredients: Corn Chex, Crispix, cashews Level: Intermediate

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You can't snack correctly without trying this healthy and fun snack mix. It's perfect for long road trips and hikes.I grew tired of my family picking through a snack mix for their favorite ingredients and leaving the rest. So I experimented using only their most-loved mix-ins and came up with this recipe. Now there's never any left! Recipe contributor Lori Genske, Waldo, Wisconsin

Roasted Eggplant SpreadTotal Time: 1 hour 5 minutesMain Ingredients: Eggplant, red peppers, onion Level: Beginner

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This unique spread is not like your usual dips. The rich and savory flavor is one that you'll keep coming back to.Black pepper and garlic perk up this out-of-the-ordinary spread that hits the spot on a crisp cracker or toasted bread slice. Recipe contributor Barbara McCalley, Allison Park, Pennsylvania.

Caprese Salad KabobsTotal Time: 10 minutesMain Ingredients: Mozzarella cheese balls, grape tomatoes, balsamic vinegar Level: Beginner

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Tired of your usual salad? These poppable snacks deliver flavor without added calories or guilt.Trade in the usual veggie platter for these fun kabobs. In addition to preparing these for get-togethers, I often make these as snacks for my family. And because assembly is so easy, the kids often ask to help. Recipe contributor Christine Mitchell, Glendora, California

Mini Zucchini PizzasTotal Time: 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Zucchini, pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese Level: Beginner

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Looking for low carb? This simple snack recipe is a fantastic way to satisfy your pizza cravings while skipping the usual carb-filled crust.This simple snack is the perfect, low-carb way to satisfy your pizza cravings. Recipe contributor Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Black-Eyed Pea Tomato SaladTotal Time: 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Black-eyed peas, tomatoes, red pepper, bacon Level: Beginner

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If you're looking for a more substantial snack, you can't go wrong with this dippable salad. It's great on its own, but even better when you dip some whole wheat crackers into it.Spending time in the kitchen with my late aunt was so much fun because she was an amazing cook and teacher. This black-eyed pea salad was one of her specialties. It is easy to make and is a nice alternative to pasta or potato salad. Add cooked cubed chicken breast to make it a meal on its own. Recipe contributor Patricia Ness, La Mesa, California

Tangy Texas SalsaTotal Time: 15 minutesMain Ingredients: Green pepper, jalapeo pepper, tomato, grapefruit, orange Level: Beginner

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The combination of sweet and spicy flavors is perfect for dipping. Try it with pretzels, crackers or cherry tomatoes for snacking.I'm a "transplant" from Wisconsin currently living in Texas. Even after 20 years, I can't get enough of our wonderful local citrus. This is one way to work it into a main dish. The combination of tangy fruit, spicy jalapeno and distinctive cilantro is perfect over any meat, poultry or fish. We also dip into it with chips. Recipe contributor Lois Kildahl, McAllen, Texas

Polenta Mushroom AppetizersTotal Time: 55 minutesMain Ingredients: Mushrooms, garlic, Parmesan cheese Level: Advanced

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This appetizer is wonderful as a starter, but it also works as a healthy snack option. These bite-sized mushrooms are just what the doctor ordered.Simple ingredientsin fact you probably have most if not all in your kitchen are used to create a fantastic, but different appetizer. Recipe contributor Meta West, Abilene, Kansas

Zucchini & Cheese RouladesTotal Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Ricotta cheese, zucchini Level: Beginner

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This is the adult snack of your dreams. Feel free to change the filling to match your tastes but don't gloss over the original recipe.My husband enjoys this recipe so much that he even helps me roll up the roulades! You can change the filling any way you likeI have used feta instead of Parmesan, or sun-dried tomatoes in the place of the olives. Recipe contributor April McKinney, Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Peach BruschettaTotal Time: 50 minutesMain Ingredients: French baguette, walnuts, arugula, peaches Level: Intermediate

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Move over tomatoes, there's a new bruschetta topping in town! This is a wonderful way to use up your ripe peaches while making a refreshing appetizer.As a starter or light snack, this bruschetta is a wonderful way to savor the season with just a bite of fresh peach amid a medley of lively flavors. Recipe contributor Nikiko Masumoto, Del Ray, California

Shrimp Salad AppetizersTotal Time: 15 minutesMain Ingredients: Shrimp, crabmeat, endive or lettuce leaves Level: Beginner

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This bright app is also great as a quick snack. The mix of vibrant flavors will keep you feeling satisfied throughout the day.This refreshing hors d'oeuvre has gained a big following since a friend shared her family recipe with me. My son says it best: The celery and shrimp are so good together. Recipe contributor Solie Kimble, Kanata, Ontario

Green & Gold SalsaTotal Time: 10 minutesMain Ingredients: Edamame, frozen corn, avocado Level: Beginner

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Corn and edamame have this popping quality that's hard to beat. It's a great healthy alternative to creamy dips.Edamame and corn give this unique salsa its unmistakable team colors. You can add a little salt if you like, too. A healthy alternative to creamy dips, its good for the extra point. Recipe contributor Maggie Lovat, Green Bay, Wisconsin

Garlic Pumpkin SeedsTotal Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Garlic powder, pumpkin seeds Level: Beginner

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This quick and satisfying pumpkin seed recipe is great if you usually crave unhealthy chips. Feel free to add any other seasonings to the mix, like paprika or chili powder for more heat.Wondering what to do with all those pumpkin seeds guests will be scooping out at your pumpkin-carving party? This yummy, microwave-easy recipe is the answer! Save some for yourself before they're gone! Recipe contributor Iola Egle, Bella Vista, Arkansas

Pressure-Cooker Asian WrapsTotal Time: 40 minutesMain Ingredients: Chicken breast, ginger root, spring roll wrappers Level: Advanced

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Satiate your takeout cravings with this recipe that makes a great ready-made lunch throughout the week. These bite-sized snacks are packed with veggies.This recipe is similar to other Asian wraps but it's packed with even more deliciously healthy flavor. Instead of ordering Chinese, why not try making these yourself? Recipe contributor Melissa Hansen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Chipotle Berry Fruit SalsaTotal Time: 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Strawberries, blackberries, kiwi Level: Beginner

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This salsa is a delectable chip dip that everyone will want more of. Just double the recipe and watch it disappear.Not too hot, but with a bit of a kick, this salsa is a perfect topping for grilled fish or chicken. Its also a delectable chip dipjust double the recipe and watch it disappear. The spice is quite mild, but cut down on (or increase!) the chipotle peppers to suit your taste. If you like, add lime zest for an added twist. Recipe contributor Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho

Edamame HummusTotal Time: 15 minutesMain Ingredients: Edamame, tahini, mint, jalapeo peppers Level: Beginner

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Healthy dips are hard to come by. Try this out with pretzel sticks, sliced red peppers or carrot sticks.We love hummus at our house. This recipe is a scrumptious and refreshing twist on an old favorite, and it's a wonderful way to incorporate healthy soy into our diets. Recipe contributor Marla Clark, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Homemade Peanut ButterTotal Time: 15 minutesMain Ingredients: Dry roasted peanuts, honey, salt Level: Beginner

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You can't go wrong with homemade peanut butter! This is great and fun for dipping. Try sliced bananas, celery sticks or crackers.We eat a lot of peanut butter, so I decided to make my own. My homemade version is easier on my wallet, and I know what ingredients are in it. It's also a lot tastier! Recipe contributor Marge Austin, North Pole, Alaska

Cheesy Cauliflower BreadsticksTotal Time: 50 minutesMain Ingredients: Cauliflower, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese Level: Beginner

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Cauliflower is a powerhouse of a vegetable. First pizza crust and now breadsticks; soon you won't need to buy bread at all! This cheesy appetizer is worth the craze.These grain-free, cheesy cauliflower breadsticks are made with vegetables instead of flour. Serve them with your favorite marinara sauce. Recipe contributor Nick Iverson, Denver, Colorado

Crab Phyllo CupsTotal Time: 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Garden vegetable cream cheese, crabmeat, chili sauce Level: Beginner

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These cups are sure to please seafood lovers. The vegetable cream cheese makes the bites herby and irresistible.I always like a dot of chili sauce on top of these easy snacks. If you're out of crab, try them with water-packed tuna. Recipe contributor Johnna Johnson, Scottsdale, Arizona

Roasted Red Pepper TapenadeTotal Time: 15 minutesMain Ingredients: Red pepper, almonds Level: Beginner

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This tangy recipe is best paired with carrot sticks or some simple crackers. Almonds in dip, who knew?When entertaining, I often rely on my pepper tapenade recipe because it takes only 15 minutes to whip up and pop in the fridge. Sometimes I swap out the almonds for walnuts or pecans. Recipe contributor Donna Magliaro, Denville, New Jersey

Herb-Roasted Olives & TomatoesTotal Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Cherry tomatoes, pitted olives, garlic-stuffed olives, Greek olives Level: Beginner

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This makes a beautiful and tasty dip, even on the go! Pair it with your favorite Italian entrees.Eat these roasted veggies with a crunchy baguette or a couple of cheeses. You can also double, or triple, the amounts and have leftovers. Recipe contributor Anndrea Bailey, Huntington Beach, California

Spicy Mixed NutsTotal Time: 15 minutesMain Ingredients: Mixed nuts, chili powder, cumin Level: Beginner

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This curry adjacent take on nuts makes for a yummy and healthy snack. You can even give it as a gift!Cumin and chili powder give extra oomph to the classic homemade nut mix. It's a smart solution for holiday snacking. Recipe contributor Delores Hill, Helena, Montana

Tomato & Artichoke BruschettaTotal Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Grape tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, artichoke hearts, French baguette Level: Intermediate

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This healthy and crunchy snack is great for when youre hit with cravings. Its also simple and quick to make.A healthy and refreshing appetizer, I enjoy bruschetta anytime of year. For serving guests, I like to slice the garlic instead of chopping it for both beauty and flavor infusion. This is also a simple make-ahead dish: You can mix it up, cover and refrigerate for a few hours before serving. Recipe contributor Gina Bergamino, Chanhassen, Minnesota

Mango Avocado Spring RollsTotal Time: 40 minutesMain Ingredients: Rice paper wrappers, avocados, mango Level: Advanced

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These fun wraps will have you drooling! This summery treat is fresh, bright and wonderfully textured.As a fan of mangoes and avocados, I love these wraps. You can substitute tortillas for rice paper wrappers, and lettuce or spinach for sprouts. Recipe contributor Gena Stout, Ravenden, Arkansas

Grilled Brussels SproutsTotal Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Brussels sprouts, red pepper, onion Level: Beginner

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Brussels sprouts may have a bad reputation, but they are actually insanely delicious once you give them a chance. This snack is great for veggie lovers who want to get more nutrients to stay full for longer.During a beach vacation, in an effort to cook our entire meal outside on the grill, I made our not-so-simple veggie choice into a simple grilled side dish. For spicier sprouts, season with red pepper flakes. Recipe contributor Tiffany Ihle, Bronx, New York

Grilled Veggies with Mustard VinaigretteTotal Time: 35 minutesMain Ingredients: Dijon mustard, zucchini, summer squash, red peppers Level: Beginner

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Grilled veggies are a summer favorite. For a quick snack, cut these veggies into bite sized pieces and say goodbye to your unhealthy cravings.I make this healthy and inviting side dish whenever friends come over for a cookout. The honeyed vinaigrette lets the veggies shine. Recipe contributor Shelly Graver, Lansdale, Pennsylvania

Thyme-Sea Salt CrackersTotal Time: 35 minutesMain Ingredients: Whole wheat flour, thyme, salt Level: Intermediate

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When salty cravings hit, make these homemade crackers instead of chowing down on unnecessary calories.These homemade crackers are decidedly light and crispy. An addictive snack on their own, they also pair well with a sharp white cheddar. Recipe contributor Jessica Wirth, Charlotte, North Carolina

Orange Shrimp MojoTotal Time: 1 hour 10 minutesMain Ingredients: Jumbo shrimp, orange, onion, avocado Level: Intermediate

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This dish has complex flavors that work beautifully together. It hits all the notes, with a sauce you might consider remaking for other proteins.With jalapeo, orange and avocado, this enticing entree is spicy, tangy and fresh with every bite. The sauce beautifully glazes the shrimp. Recipe contributor Don Thompson, Houston, Ohio

Greek Veggie TartletsTotal Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Phyllo tart sheets, onion, feta cheese, Greek olives Level: Beginner

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These cute tarts are delicious and packed with veggies. Snack on a couple of these as you sit outside and enjoy the sunshine.The mixture in this recipe was originally a salad I made after a trip to Greece. When my husband suggested I serve it in phyllo cups, it became my most-requested appetizer! Recipe contributor Radelle Knappenberger, Oviedo, Florida

Mango Barley SaladTotal Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Barley, limes, mango Level: Beginner

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This fresh, colorful mango salad is a wonderful option if you want something sweet. The bright flavor is perfect for a smart healthy snack.I made this fresh, colorful mango salad on the fly and it was a big hit! The bright flavor is perfect for a spring or summer picnic, served right away or chilled. Recipe contributor Dan Wellberg, Elk River, Minnesota

Yogurt & Honey Fruit CupsTotal Time: 10 minutesMain Ingredients: Fruit, yogurt, honey Level: Beginner

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This snack is sweet without being too rich. Dress up your usual yogurt with some colorful new toppings!A tasty combo of fresh fruit and creamy orange-kissed yogurt, this is guaranteed to disappear fast from your breakfast table. Recipe contributor Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Grilled Zucchini with OnionsTotal Time: 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Zucchini, green onions Level: Beginner

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While you may not think of zucchini as a snack, cut them into bite sized pieces and you'll have a delicious grilled snack that won't make you miss greasy fried food.Wondering what to do with all your garden-grown zucchini in the summer? Give it a sizzle and a little heat with this healthy side. Its also an easy recipe to double or triple for summer cookouts. Recipe contributor Alia Shuttleworth, Auburn, California

Mocha Pumpkin SeedsTotal Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Instant coffee granules, pumpkin seeds Level: Beginner

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Any seasoned pumpkin seeds are a great healthy snack, but these chocolatey seeds will curb your desire for something more indulgent.Roasted pumpkin seeds are a classic fall snack. Kick them up a notch with instant coffee and cocoa powder for a mix thats mocha genius at any time of year. Recipe contributor Rebekah Beyer, Sabetha, Kansas

Baked Parmesan Breaded SquashTotal Time: 40 minutesMain Ingredients: Yellow summer squash, panko bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese Level: Beginner

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Baked yellow squash is a great snack when you're craving salty chips. The squash gets perfectly baked so it's just as crunchy as chips, but better for you.Baked yellow squash is beautifully crispy. You dont have to turn the pieces, but do keep an eye on them. Recipe contributor Debi Mitchell, Flower Mound, Texas

Tzatziki Shrimp Cucumber RoundsTotal Time: 35 minutesMain Ingredients: Cucumber, bacon, shrimp Level: Intermediate

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The bacon-wrapped shrimp, garlicky sauce and burst of cool cucumber flavor make this healthy snack a hit!I created this recipe with what I had on hand one night, and now its one of my husbands favorites! The bacon-wrapped shrimp, garlicky sauce and burst of cool cuke flavor make this a crowd pleaser. Recipe contributor Shannon Rose Trelease, East Hampton, New York

The post If Your Stomach Grumbles, This Is What It Really Means appeared first on Taste of Home.

Here’s what you need to know about wire grill brush danger (and here’s a safer alternativethe Grill Rescue brush).

Why a Wire Grill Brush Can Be Dangerous

As you might expect, wire grill brush bristles are sharp. And one study revealed that between 2002 and 2014, around 1,700 Americans had to go to the emergency room after accidentally ingesting wire bristles. And those were just the reported cases! They can cause severe damage internally, and may even require emergency surgery.

Health Canada even pushed for a new national standard to help stop these incidents from happening.

Wire Grill Brush Alternatives

Luckily, this is a problem with an easy solution, because it’s possible to clean your grill grates without a wire brush. There are plenty of other methods that work just as well, if not better.

Use a grillstone

According to Consumer Reports, the highest-rated wire brush alternative is the Earthstone Grillstone, which outperformed most of the traditional brushes in testing.

Get a non-wire scraper

I’ve found that a non-wire scraper does the trick. The Grate Grill Scrapergets right between those grates!

Get a non-wire brush with a scraper

The Grill Rescue Brush has 4.7 stars from Walmart and is everything you need to get your grill as clean as possible without the possibility of any nasty leftover wires.

Try a grill brush and scrub pad

For people with smaller grills, a giant brush isn’t really necessary. This Expert Grill Double Grill Brush and Scrub Pad is perfect for quick cleans between uses and really gets the job done.

Grab your oven cleaner

You can treat your grill grate like an oven grate and use anoven cleaner to clean it. These cleaning methods should do the trick.

Crumple up aluminum foil

You can also brush loose food particles off a warm grate with a wad of aluminum foil. Just make sure to let the grill grates cool down first to avoid injury.

Tools for Cleaning Your Grill

How to Reduce Wire Grill Brush Danger

If you currently have a wire brush, give it a good once-over. If it has any loose or missing bristles, toss it. It’s better to use some aluminum foil on the fly than take a chance with the wire grill brush. Make sure to double-check your grill as well and to check for stray bristles stuck on the grates.

Now that you know how to avoid the hazards of a wire grill brush, let’s get to some great grilling. Here are dozens of grilling ideas to try tonight!

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Chimichurri SteakTotal Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Steak, parsley, cilantro, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, garlic, olive oilLevel: Beginner

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Chimichurri sauce is an Argentinian sauce made with fresh chopped herbs, spices, garlic, vinegar and oil. We add lime juice and spicy peppers for an extra kick. While you could make the sauce when the steak is resting, I always make it the night before and store it in the fridge to help the flavors come together."Steak gets a flavor kick from chimichurri. This piquant, all-purpose herb sauce is so versatile, it complements most any grilled meat, poultry or fish." Recipe contributor Laureen Pittman, Riverside, California

Grilled Lime ChickenTotal Time: 20 minutes + marinatingMain Ingredients: Chicken breast, lime juice, green onions, garlic, dillLevel: Beginner

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I'm always looking for quick and easy dinners my kids will love. Luckily, our readers agree that this one is a family favorite. But while it's a low-maintenance main, don't let the chicken marinate in lime juice for more than a few hours. The lime juice tenderizes the meat, which can make its texture soft if it sits too long."My family is always delighted when I tell them these grilled chicken breasts are on the menu. Everyone loves the wonderful marinade; I relish the ease of preparation." Recipe contributor Lisa Dougherty, Vacaville, California

Pork BurgersTotal Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Ground pork, hamburger bunsLevel: Beginner

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Skip ground beef for a more exciting option: pork! You'll really only need the ground meat, egg and bread crumbs, but you can also add fresh spices if you wish. If you're feeding a crowd, form the ground pork mixture into two-inch patties and make sliders instead."We live on a working hog farm and love this savory burger. Everyone will love these burgerseven if your pork comes from the grocery store, not the farm!" Recipe contributor Dawnita Phillips, Drexel, Missouri

Steak and Shrimp KabobsTotal Time: 35 minutes + marinatingMain Ingredients: Shrimp, sirloin steak, mushrooms, green peppersLevel: Beginner

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If you can't decide between surf or turf, these easy-to-make skewers are the best of both worlds. Add some pineapple for extra sweetness. If you want to up the fancy factor, use other types of steak like ribeye or New York strip steak"You'll make any get-together special with these attractive kabobs. Cubes of marinated steak are skewered with shrimp, mushrooms, tomatoes, green peppers and onions, then grilled. For picnics, I assemble the kabobs at home and carry them in a large container." Recipe contributor Karen Mergener, St. Croix, Minnesota

Halibut Fish TacosTotal Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Halibut steaks, mango, avocado, lemon, Bibb lettuce, flour tortillasLevel: Beginner

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Whether you're grilling by the beach or just wish you were, this grilled fish recipe hits the spot. Halibut is delicate and might fall apart while it's cooking, but trust us, these tacos will taste just as good. Explore more of our favorite fish taco recipes to make a build-your-own taco bar."I sometimes serve the fish wrapped in lettuce instead of tortillas. Either way, the mango salsa tastes amazing with grilled halibut. This warm-weather favorite is quick, colorful and full of nutrients." Recipe contributor Kristin Kossak, Bozeman, Montana

Favorite Grilled Pork ChopsTotal Time: 25 minutes + marinatingMain Ingredients: Pork loin chops, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, soy sauceLevel: Beginner

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These aren't your grandma's pork chops. If you're used to seeing them served with gravy and applesauce, give this summery version with Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic, cayenne pepper and lots of fresh parsley a try. You'll need to marinate the meat overnight, so start this dish the night before."I start preparing this entree the night before I plan to grill it. The fabulous marinade officially convinced my family to eat pork chops." Recipe contributor Erica Svejda, Janesville, Wisconsin

Grilled Veggie PizzaTotal Time: 40 minutesMain Ingredients: Whole wheat pizza crust, mozzarella cheese, pizza sauce, tomatoes, mushrooms, zucchini, sweet yellow pepper, sweet red pepperLevel: Intermediate

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Pizza on the grill? It's quick, easy and so tasty. The secret is a 12-inch store-bought, prebaked pizza crust. Add sauce, cheese and your favorite seasonal veggies, then pop it on the grill for ten minutes."I came up with this recipe one summer as a way to use up vegetables from our garden. Grilling the veggies first brings out their sizzling flavors. Try it with a sprinkling of olives or pine nuts before adding the cheese." Recipe contributor Susan Marshall, Colorado Springs, Colorado

How to Grill RibsTotal Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes + marinatingMain Ingredients: Baby back ribs, chicken broth, soy sauce, sugar, cider vinegarLevel: Intermediate

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If you've never cooked baby back ribs, the extra-long cooking time might feel daunting. (Yes, these babies require over an hour on the coals.) But the low and slow cooking technique is hands-off and forgiving, so you can focus your time on cooking some tasty side dishes, like corn on the cob and potato salad."I like to marinate racks of ribs before adding my zesty spice rub. Then I grill them to perfection. They always turn out juicy and loaded with flavor." Recipe contributor Iola Egle, Bella Vista, Arkansas

Grilled Chicken Thighs and DrumsticksTotal Time: 40 minutes + marinatingMain Ingredients: Chicken thighs and drumsticks, brown sugar, cider vinegarLevel: Beginner

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This flavor-packed main dish is just as tasty cooked on a charcoal or gas grill, but you'll need to check the meat more frequently if you're grilling it over coals. Because the grill will typically run a bit hotter and you can't control the temperature, the chicken might cook more quickly than it would on a gas grill."When Mom makes grilled chicken thighs and drumsticks, this is the way we like it prepared. It's juicy, has great barbecue flavor and makes a big batch, so it's perfect for a summer picnic and family reunions." Recipe contributor Brenda Beachy, Belvidere, Tennessee

Chicken SatayTotal Time: 20 minutes + marinatingMain Ingredients: Chicken breasts, coconut milk, sugar, peanut butter, soy sauce, gingerLevel: Beginner

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Don't jump straight to hot dogs and hamburgers at your next barbecue. Try these Thai-inspired skewers instead. Thanks to the marinademade with coconut milk, brown sugar, coriander, turmeric, cumin, salt and white pepperthis dish is a delight for the taste buds."These golden skewered chicken snacks are marinated and grilled, then served with a zesty Thai-style peanut butter sauce." Recipe contributor Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin

Grilled Chicken Caesar SaladTotal Time: 30 minutes + marinatingMain Ingredients: Chicken, red wine vinegar, soy sauce, romaine lettuce, croutons, Caesar dressingLevel: Beginner

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There's an art to making the perfect salad. When the warm chicken straight off the grill combines with the umami flavor of the anchovies in the homemade Caesar dressing, you'll be ready to make this dish a weekly favorite."Whenever we're invited to potlucks, I'm always asked to bring a salad because people know it's one of my specialties. This dish is especially good on summer days when it's too hot to cook on the stove." Recipe contributor Deb Weisberger, Mullet Lake, Michigan

Stuffed Grilled ChickenTotal Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Chicken breast, garlic, seasoned bread crumbs, lemonLevel: Beginner

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This six-ingredient recipe is the very definition of "quick and easy." But because the chicken is stuffed, it's elevated enough to serve at a dinner party. Eat it alongside rice pilaf or pasta dishes for hearty pairings, or go lighter with side salads."As a single, working mom with two kids, I look for recipes that are fast and simple. My family loves this one and it gets me out of the kitchen fast." Recipe contributor Candi VanMeveren, Lamberton, Minnesota

Peach-Glazed RibsTotal Time: 1 hour, 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Baby back ribs, canned peaches, soy sauce, honey, brown sugarLevel: Intermediate

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In the summertime, the last thing I want to do is turn on my oven. Luckily, this dish easily comes together with farmers market finds and a few items I usually have in my pantry. The baby back ribs will need to slow cook on the grill for over an hour, but you can use the hands-off time to make a big summer saladpacked with seasonal veggies."For a fruity alternative to the usual barbecue sauce for ribs, try this slightly spicy recipe at your next picnic. The peaches add just the right touch of sweetness and a lovely color to this special sauce." Recipe contributor Sharon Taylor, Columbia, South Carolina

Tailgate SausagesTotal Time: 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Italian sausage links, brat or hot dog buns, giardiniera, provolone cheeseLevel: Beginner

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You've probably had giardiniera before, even if you didn't know the official name for it. It's a pickled veggie mixture popularized by Italian-American households, and it adds zip and tang to this sausage sandwich. You can find it in the pickle section of most grocery stores."You'll need just a handful of ingredients to fix these tasty sandwiches. Fully cooked sausages are placed in buns with cheese and topped with giardiniera, then wrapped in foil so they're easy to transport and a breeze to grill." Recipe contributor Matthew Hass, Ellison Bay, Wisconsin

Grilled Barbecued SalmonTotal Time: 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Salmon, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauceLevel: Beginner

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Cooking salmon on the grill isn't as daunting as it seems. It's not as flaky as white fish, so it won't fall apart easily, and the smoky flavor is irresistible. Typically, you won't have to flip salmon on the grill, but because both sides are brushed with sauce in this recipe, we recommend that you turn it. If you're using skin-on fillets, start with the skin side up, then flip it over. Or, remove the salmon skin before cooking."For a beautiful blend of sweet and spicy, salmon is grilled and basted with barbecue sauce perked up by brown sugar and hints of chili, soy sauce and lime." Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Salmon SaladTotal Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Salmon, spring mix salad greens, cucumber, tomato, feta cheese, red wine vinaigretteLevel: Beginner

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Your friends will step into your backyard and think they've been transported to a fancy al fresco restaurant. Add the grilled salmon to the salad while it is still warm, then drizzle the plate with homemade vinaigrette and fresh lemon juice."My son David always ordered the salmon sandwich at a local pub. In trying to replicate it, he came up with this salad. It's the only recipe he's ever made, and our entire family thinks it's superb." Recipe contributor Susan Griffiths, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina

Grilled ShrimpTotal Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Shrimp, butter, lemon juiceLevel: Beginner

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These easy shrimp skewers are so versatile. Add them to a salad, eat them as an appetizer, put them on a grain bowl or include some sides to make them the main dish. Make extra seasoned butter and try it on grilled scallops or lobster tails too."This is easy and delicious! These shrimp are great with steak, but for a special occasion, brush the sauce on lobster tails and grill." Recipe contributor Sheryl Shenberger, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Sausage Squash KabobsTotal Time: 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Turkey kielbasa, red potatoes, zucchini, yellow summer squashLevel: Beginner

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Sausage andsquash? They might not be as natural as peanut butter and jelly, but I was surprised to discover that this flavor combination is unexpected and delicious. Honey, Dijon mustard and orange zest add extra zip."Expect a crowd to gather around the grill when these flavorful kabobs are cooking. The zesty honey-mustard glaze gives a lovely sheen to the sausage and veggies." Recipe contributor Lisa Malynn Kent, North Richland Hills, Texas

Grilled Salmon SteaksTotal Time: 25 minutes + marinatingMain Ingredients: Salmon steaks, white wine vinegar, dill, Dijon mustard, mayoLevel: Beginner

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If the idea of making fish on the grill sounds intimidating, push yourself out of your comfort zone and try grilling salmon steaks. They're thicker and more durable than fillets, so they won't fall apart or dry out on the grill. If you're concerned the fish is getting overcooked, use a meat thermometer to check its internal temperature. When it reaches about 145F, the fish is done."This is a terrific way to fix salmon...and it's so easy to do. The marinade mellows the fish flavor, and the dill sauce is a wonderful complement. I once served this recipe to 12 people from the Pacific Northwest who declared it was the best salmon they'd ever eaten!" Recipe contributor Deb Essen, Victor, Montana

Grilled Meat LoafTotal Time: 1 hour + standingMain Ingredients: Ground beef, quick-cooking oats, Worcestershire sauceLevel: Beginner

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This isn't your mom's meatloaf. The recipe ingredients are traditional, but once you pop it on the grill, it becomes a fun and exciting new dish to try. Serve it with macaroni salad, preferably outside on the back deck."This recipe is the perfect twist on a comforting family favorite. Shape the meat into loaves and "bake" them on a grill. Ketchup brushed over the meat lends a little sweetness to each slice." Recipe contributor Catherine Carpenter, Barnesville, Ohio

Margarita ChickenTotal Time: 20 minutes + marinatingMain Ingredients: Chicken breast, frozen nonalcoholic margarita mix, lime juiceLevel: Beginner

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Remember that can of frozen margarita mix you've had in the freezer since last summer? It's time to put it to good use in this ridiculously simple six-ingredient chicken recipe. Basting the chicken with marinade throughout the cooking process will keep it extra juicy."Marinated in flavors of garlic and lime, this tangy margarita chicken is ready to go whenever the coals are hot! Serve with roasted corn on the cob and lemonade." Recipe contributor Kelly Bruneman, Cedar Park, Texas

Simple Pork Chop MarinadeTotal Time: 20 minutes + marinatingMain Ingredients: Bone-in pork loin chops, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlicLevel: Beginner

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Fancy doesn't always mean better. It doesn't get much simpler or more delicious than this foolproof marinade, which features only brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic and a bit of black pepper. Add a shake of red chili flakes if you like it spicy, or add rice vinegar, sesame oil and grated fresh ginger for a teriyaki twist."This marinade is so simple that I use it on all kinds of meat. For a more robust flavor, let the meat marinate in the refrigerator overnight." Community Cook Lori Daniels, Beverly, West Virginia

Key West Flank SteakTotal Time: 35 minutes + marinating + standingMain Ingredients: Flank steak, Key limes, wine vinegar, cilantro, red onionLevel: Beginner

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This dish is already bursting with flavor, but for an added zip, don't forget to add a squeeze of grilled Key lime. One of our readers calls this recipe "perfect for summer," and we have to agree."My husband, Jason, is the cook in our family. This is his recipe, inspired by his Colombian roots and our visits to Key West. Serve with sides of rice and fried plantains." Recipe contributor Gretchen Ospina, Columbia Heights, Minnesota

Bacon-Wrapped Hot DogsTotal Time: 35 minutesMain Ingredients: Hot dogs, bacon, hot dog bunsLevel: Intermediate

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If you live in Los Angeles, you know these delicious guys as "danger dogs." But don't worry, they're just as easy to cook as they are to eat. For best results, look for one of our favorite bacon brands at the grocery store."Here's a satisfying meal-in-a-bun I take to tailgate parties, cookouts, picnics and more. To transport the stuffed hot dogs, they are wrapped in foil first, then in paper." Recipe contributor Peter Halferty, Corpus Christi, Texas

Foil-Packet Potatoes and SausageTotal Time: 50 minutesMain Ingredients: Red potatoes, smoked sausage links, bacon strips, onionsLevel: Beginner

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Whether you're camping in the woods or just don't feel like scrubbing pots and pans, foil packet recipes make cooking over a fire so quick and easy. If you can't ensure even cooking (like at a campground), be sure to use fully cooked smoked sausages, or other cooked sausage varieties like spinach and feta chicken sausage."My family enjoys camping and cooking over a fire. These hearty foil-packet meals turn out beautifully over a campfire, on the grill or in the oven at home." Recipe contributor Julie Koets, Elkhart, Indiana

Grilled Lobster TailsTotal Time: 25 minutes + marinatingMain Ingredients: Frozen lobster tails, olive oil, chives, garlicLevel: Beginner

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If you're like me, the thought of making lobster tail at home is nerve-wracking. How do I devein it? How do I know when it's finished cooking? Luckily, this practically foolproof recipe is here to walk us through it. Give it a try at your next summer dinner party."I had never made lobster at home until I tried this convenient and deliciously different grilled recipe. It turned out amazing, and has left me with little reason to ever order lobster at a restaurant again." Recipe contributor Katie Rush, Kansas City, Missouri

Martha's Fish TacosTotal Time: 35 minutesMain Ingredients: Haddock, sweet corn, red pepper, avocado, flour tortillasLevel: Intermediate

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Transport yourself to the beach with this vibrant fish taco recipe, featuring grilled haddock, grilled sweet corn and even grilled tortillas (if you really want to impress). Serve alongside a refreshing watermelon saladand a big handful of napkins."We can't get enough barbecued fish at our house. This recipe can be made ahead and served cold, or you can eat it hot off the grill. It's fantastic either way!" Recipe contributor Martha Benoit, Proctorsville, Vermont

Huli Huli ChickenTotal Time: 30 minutes + marinatingMain Ingredients: Chicken thighs, brown sugar, ketchup, sherry, ginger, soy sauceLevel: Beginner

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You can thank Honolulu businessman Ernest Morgado for this unique twist on grilled chicken, which is marinated in a mixture of ginger, garlic, brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce and sherry. Huli is the Hawaiian word for "turn," which references how many times the chicken is turned while it's grilled."I got this grilled chicken recipe from a friend while living in Hawaii. It sizzles with the flavors of brown sugar, ginger and soy sauce. Huli means "turn" in Hawaiian. This sweet and savory glaze is fantastic on pork chops too. Recipe contributor Sharon Boling, San Diego, California

Big John's Chili-Rubbed RibsTotal Time: 1 hour, 50 minutes + chillingMain Ingredients: Baby back ribs, brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchupLevel: Beginner

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If you've ever had dreams of opening up a barbecue joint, making this recipe is the next best thing. Our readers say the spice rub is just as delicious on spare ribs, which are usually less expensive and tend to have more meat."When my family thinks of summer grilling, it's ribs all the way. Our Asian-inspired recipe is a welcome change from the usual barbecue-sauce versions." Recipe contributor Ginger Sullivan, Cutler Bay, Florida

Pesto Corn Salad with ShrimpTotal Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Shrimp, sweet corn, basil, olive oil, cherry tomatoes, avocadoLevel: Beginner

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Show off your farmers market hauland your cooking prowesswith this summery salad that showcases in-season veggies. To make the dish vegetarian, swap the shrimp for veggie kabobs or grilled tofu."This recipe showcases the beautiful bounty of summer with its fresh corn, tomatoes and delicious basil. Prevent browning by spritzing the salad with lemon juice." Recipe contributor Deena Bowen, Chico, California

Grilled Chicken Ranch BurgersTotal Time: 25 minutes + chillingMain Ingredients: Ground chicken, ranch salad dressing, panko, Parmesan cheese, hamburger bunsLevel: Beginner

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Chances are, you've eaten ground beef burgers at least once since summer began. Spice things up with grilled chicken ranch burgers, which are still leaner than beef burgers, but bring in a whole new depth of flavor. Serve with sliced avocado and, of course, extra ranch sauce."This is one of the most fantastic, flavorful burgers I've ever made. Ranch is a favorite in dips and dressings, and believe me, it doesn't disappoint in these burgers, either!" Recipe contributor Kari Shifflett, Lake Mills, Iowa

Korean Short RibsTotal Time: 20 minutes + marinatingMain Ingredients: Beef short ribs, soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil, Asian pear, gingerLevel: Beginner

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If you've ever cooked beef short ribs on the grill, you can easily master this recipe. The secret is in the marinade, which uses soy sauce, brown sugar, mirin, sesame oil, onion, garlic, ginger and one secret ingredient: Asian pear. The pear contains calpain, an enzyme that helps tenderize the meat."These Korean short ribs are cut across the bone lengthwise or flanken-style. The ginger gives the sweet and savory marinade a nice freshness." Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Chicken and Zucchini Foil PacksTotal Time: 1 hourMain Ingredients: Chicken breasts, mushrooms, tomato paste, zucchiniLevel: Intermediate

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While the prep work doesn't require much skill beyond chopping and sauteing veggies, you will need about 45 minutes to get the ingredients ready before you start cooking. Save this recipe for a relaxed summer weekend night."I enjoy foil-wrapped dinners cooked on the grill because there are no pots or pans to wash. You can try this with most fresh vegetables you have on hand." Recipe contributor Dianna Smith, Newport, Tennessee

Grilled Pork TenderloinTotal Time: 30 minutes + marinatingMain Ingredients: Pork tenderloins, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, fresh gingerLevel: Beginner

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It's easy to get stuck in a chicken and ground beef rut. Tonight, give pork tenderloin a chance. It's just as easy to cook as chicken, but with a juicy and tender new flavor the whole family will devour. To shake things up, try a tropical-inspired marinade with pineapple, orange juice and spices."We do a lot of grilling during the summer months, and this recipe is one my family asks for again and again." Recipe contributor Betsy Carrington, Lawrenceburg, Tennessee

Chicken with Peach-Avocado SalsaTotal Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Chicken breast, peach, avocado, red pepper, limeLevel: Beginner

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Jazz up chicken breasts with this summery twist, featuring peaches, avocado, red pepper and lime juice. If you're not a spicy food fan, simply omit the hot pepper sauce."This super fresh dinner is pure summerjuicy peaches, creamy avocado, grilled chicken and a kick of hot sauce and lime. To get it on the table even quicker, make the salsa ahead. Shannon Norris, Cudahy, Wisconsin

Banh Mi Baby Back RibsTotal Time: 3 hours, 15 minutesMain Ingredients: Pork baby back ribs, naval orange, Korean barbecue sauce, rice vinegar, daikon radishLevel: Intermediate

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Get the tang and crunch of a banh mi sandwich on your grill this season. The recipe calls for some quick pickling, so get the rice vinegar ready for the carrots, daikon radish and green onions. Our readers call this dish a "must-try.""We love both banh mi and ribs. This creative entree has all the flavors of the beloved Vietnamese sandwichsans bread. Sprinkle the pork with roasted peanuts and sesame seeds, in addition to the other garnishes, for a fun crunch." Recipe contributor Bonnie Geavaras-Bootz, Chandler, Arizona

Steak and Potato Foil PacksTotal Time: 40 minutesMain Ingredients: Steaks, red potatoes, onion, rosemary, garlicLevel: Beginner

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Bookmark this recipe for a night you feel fancy, but lazy. You'll feast on hearty steak and potatoes, but you won't do a single dish! If you're too exhausted to even fire up the grill, you can pop these in a 400F oven for 20 to 25 minutes instead."As a park ranger, I've cooked a lot of meals outdoors. I often assemble foil packs and toss them into my backpack with some ice. Then when I set up camp, it's easy to cook them over a campfire. If I'm at home, I use my grill, and the food is just as good." Recipe contributor Ralph Jones, San Diego, California

Grilled SalmonTotal Time: 20 minutes + standingMain Ingredients: Salmon, garlic, lemon, rosemaryLevel: Beginner

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Once you've mastered these basic grilled salmon fillets, get fancy with different seasonings. This week, sprinkle on a little fresh oregano and thyme. Next week, add ginger and slather the fish with cucumber lime sauce. The possibilities are endless!"The grill is a perfect cooking method for salmon. The smokiness is a subtle way to amp up salmon's mild flavor, and the high heat creates a delicious charred finish." Recipe contributor Lindsay Mattison, Hillsboro, Oregon

Vietnamese Pork ChopsTotal Time: 30 minutes + chillingMain Ingredients: Thin-cut pork loin chops, lemongrass, shallots, soy sauce, fish sauce, garlicLevel: Beginner

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Pork is a delicious staple of Vietnamese cooking, and after trying these fragrant pork chops, it's easy to see why. If you can't find lemongrass at your local supermarket, try the farmers market or an international grocery store."Serve these tender Vietnamese pork chops with rice and sliced cucumbers. In addition to grilling or broiling, they can also be cooked in a skillet." Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Grilled Pork Chops with Spicy Fennel RelishTotal Time: 35 minutesMain Ingredients: Pork loin chops, lemon, fennel, pitted green olives, basilLevel: Beginner

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Good news: The flavorful dipping sauce will last in the fridge for up to a week, so make a double batch and try it again with chicken or fish. Serve with jasmine rice and crunchy veggies, like sliced cucumber and carrot sticks."Pork chops are great for grilling! If you have time, marinate the pork chops for several hours or overnight before grilling for even more flavor. You could also add lemon juice and zest to the marinade to add a bright citrus note to the pork." Recipe contributor Gilda Lester, Millsboro, Delaware

Greek Lemon ChickenTotal Time: 30 minutes + marinatingMain Ingredients: Chicken thighs, lemon, olive oil, garlicLevel: Beginner

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Transport yourself to the Greek Isles with this bright and citrusy main that's also really good for you. With only 359 calories and 30g of protein per serving, it's time to add this Mediterranean diet dish into your weekly rotation."This grilled Greek lemon chicken is so easy to make yet so full of flavor! The lemon and oregano flavors shine in this simple dish. It pairs perfectly with some roasted vegetables or a side salad." Recipe contributor Courtney Stultz, Weir, KansasGrilled Dinner Ideas FAQWhat can you serve at a barbecue besides hamburgers?Hamburgers are a trusty cookout staple, but there are so many other foods to explore when it comes to barbecue menu ideas. While the grill heats up, prepare a plate of appetizers and flavorful salads for guests to snack on like Greek salad, broccoli slaw and marinated tomatoes.For the main course, try tuna teriyaki kebabs, grilled pork chops or grilled cauliflower wedges. And don't forget dessert: You can cook peach bread pudding, grilled honey-balsamic glazed fruit or banana butter pecan kabobs right on the grill.What is the easiest meat to grill?Once you've gotten comfortable cooking burgers and hot dogs over the coals, chicken is the easiest meat to grill. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook quickly and evenly over high heat, while bone-in chicken thighs can be cooked on either low or high heat. Because they have a higher fat content, chicken thighs are exceptionally flavorful. Leaving the skin on will keep the meat juicy and tender.What kind of side do you serve with a grilled dinner?Why grill the meat, then go inside to cook the rest of the meal in the kitchen? Just toss corn on the cob, mushroom kabobsand spicy eggplant on the already-hot grill while cooking the main dish or right afterwards. Since most veggies cook quickly over high heat, your family will be ready to eat in a flash.

The post The Dangerous Reason You Should Never Use a Wire Brush to Clean Your Grill appeared first on Taste of Home.

You’re stirring up dust

Anyone who’s ever cleaned a dusty bookcase or a neglected spare room knows dust makes you sneeze. “Dust is a common trigger for asthma and allergy symptoms,” says Jennifer Caudle, DO, a family physician and associate professor at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine. But did you know dust can actually be toxic? A meta-analysis from George Washington University found unhealthy levels of chemicals in dust that can cause everything from hormone disruptions to asthma to even cancer.

To avoid ingesting or breathing dust as much as possible, wipe up dust frequentlydon’t just save hard-to-reach spots for spring cleaningand follow a “top-down” strategy. “Start with ceilings and high shelving, and work your way to the floors to limit redistribution of dust and other particles to freshly cleaned surfaces,” says Samara Geller, a senior research and database analyst at Environmental Working Group (EWG). In addition, “look for a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter to more effectively trap dust, allergens and contaminants,” she says. Check out the spots you might forget when spring cleaning.

The post 15 Spring Cleaning Mistakes That Could Make You Sick appeared first on Taste of Home.

Don’t worry if you end up with more brownies than you can eat, either. You can store these bite-size treats in the freezer and take them out as needed. Just thaw for a few hours in the fridgeor enjoy frozen!

Editor’s Note:CBD isn’t legal in every state. Be sure you know local laws before making your own CBD brownies.

Oil vs. Cannabutter for CBD Brownies

In general, using oil creates fudgy brownies while butter makes cakey brownies. Either way works for this CBD brownie recipe because we use cannabutter that can be made with either butter or coconut oil for dairy-free brownies. Cannabutter is more economical than store-bought CBD oil, and it can be stored in the freezer until you’re ready to use it.

If you don’t want to learn how to make cannabutter, feel free to use your favorite CBD oil instead. Simply whisk the oil into the recipe alongside the vanilla extract. Our recipe makes 36 bite-size brownies, so add the appropriate number of drops to reach your desired dosage.

Tools You’ll Need

When it comes to baking, we always recommend using a kitchen scale to weigh the dry ingredients. We’ve also offered measurements in tablespoons and cups below, but using a scale is the best way to ensure the brownies will turn out with the perfect consistency.

It’s best not to microwave the cannabutter, so we recommend using a double boiler to melt the butter or oil with the sugar and cocoa powder in the second step. A heat-proof bowl set over a medium saucepan with simmering water does the trick nicely.

Finally, you’ll also need an 8×8 square baking pan and some parchment paper to make it easier to release the brownies. You can use regular parchment paper or invest in square sheets if you plan to bake brownies on the regular.

CBD Brownies Recipe

This recipe is excerpted from The Essential Guide to CBD. Learn step-by-step how to safely make your own budget-saving CBD products and edibles in this all-new resource. Get your copy now.

Ingredients

• 10 tablespoons (140g) CBD-rich cannabutter made with butter or coconut oil
• 1-1/4 cups (250g) granulated sugar
• 3/4 cups (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder (natural or Dutch-processed)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, cold
• 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup (75g) walnut or pecan pieces, toasted (optional)

Yield: 36 bite-size servings

Directions

Step 1: Prepare a baking pan

Preheat the oven to 325F. To make the brownies easier to remove from the pan, line the bottom and sides of an 8×8 square baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Editor’s Tip: The easiest way to make the parchment fit is to cut two sheets of parchment the width of the baking pan. Place one sheet in the baking pan, creasing the corners to help it stay in place. Add a second sheet perpendicular to the first one so all four sides of the pan are covered.

Step 2: Melt the butter

Make the base of these CBD brownies by placing the cannabutter, sugar, cocoa powder and salt in a medium heatproof bowl. If you’re using CBD oil instead of cannabutter, swap in regular butter or vegetable oil for this step. Set the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water and cook, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted. Continue cooking until the mixture is smooth and hot to the touch.

Remove the bowl from the heat and let cool until the mixture is just warm. Don’t worry if it has a slightly gritty texture; it will smooth out again when you make the brownie batter.

Step 3: Mix the batter

If you’re using CBD oil, add the appropriate number of drops to the warm butter mixture and stir to combine. Add the vanilla and the eggs, one at a time, stirring well after each addition. Finish by adding the flour and beating the batter vigorously for 40 strokes until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Fold in the nuts (if using).

Step 4: Bake

Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan and smooth out the top to create an even layer. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center is slightly moist with batter. To ensure the brownies are finished, look for other visual signs: The center should be firm and shouldn’t wiggle when you shake the pan, and there should be some signs of cracking on the top.

Let the brownies cool completely in the baking pan set on a rack.

Step 5: Cut the brownies

When the brownies are completely cooled, remove them from the pan by lifting up on two sides of the parchment. Place the brownies on a large plate or baking sheet and freeze them for 30 minutes, until firm.

Using a sharp knife, cut the brownies into 36 bite-size pieces.

How to Store CBD Brownies

Wrap each brownie in waxed paper or foil and store in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.

The cannabinoids in CBD brownies are most stable when stored in a cool, dark place. Store the brownies in the fridge for up to two weeks. For extended use, freeze the brownies for up to six months.

How Long Do CBD Brownies Last?

CBD brownies are good for up to two weeks in the fridge, or as long as six months in the freezer.

Can You Add Mix-Ins to CBD Brownies?

Any additions you might add to regular brownies will taste great in CBD brownies! Add chopped nuts, nut butter, fruit or jam, caramel, butterscotch, chopped-up cookies, pretzels or chocolate chips to give your CBD brownies extra flair. Don’t be afraid to frost them with fudge or peanut butter frosting, either, to create a decadent treat.

Try these other ways to cook with CBD oil.

The post How to Make CBD Brownies from Scratch appeared first on Taste of Home.

Calm CBD Gummies

If you’re searching for a product to help with mild anxiety, look into calm CBD gummies. They’re flavored with natural fruit and vegetable juices instead of artificial sweeteners, and each 10 milligram dose helps ease everyday stress.

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The post 11 Best CBD Gummies and Edibles You Can Buy Online appeared first on Taste of Home.

Gummies are a great way for any CBD newbies to get started. Each gummy has a specific dosage, so you don’t have to fiddle around with measuring out a specific number of drops. Plus, gummies taste great, which is why they’ve been a preferred way to consume vitamins for years.

Our CBD oil gummies are super easy to make and they have a fantastic sweet-tart, fruit-forward flavor. They’re fat-free, and we even have an option for making them with stevia or monk fruit extract to create a sugar-free version!

Editors Note:CBD isnt legal in every state. Be sure you know local laws before making your own CBD gummies.

Tools You’ll Need

It’s possible to make gummies without a gummy mold, but the process is significantly easier with one. We like the silicone molds best because they make it simple to pop out the finished gummies. You can use the same semi-sphere round mold you’d use for making hot cocoa bombs, or you can get fun shapes like bears, hearts and stars.

If your mold doesn’t come with one, you’ll want to pick up a liquid pipette or eyedropper. These give you the precision to add an exact amount of gummy mixture into each mold, saving you from the mess that comes with using a spoon.

Finally, you’ll need CBD. You can use a CBD tincture (made by soaking cannabis in alcohol or water) or a CBD oil (made by infusing cannabis in an oil, such as hemp oil) to make these gummies. We like using full-spectrum CBD for its enhanced health benefits, although these brands tend to be more expensive than broad-spectrum or isolate CBD.

CBD Oil Gummies Recipe

This recipe is excerpted from The Essential Guide to CBD. Learn step-by-step how to safely make your own budget-saving CBD products and edibles in this all-new resource. Get your copy now.

Yield: 24 large gummies or 48 medium-sized gummies (depending on the mold used)

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup dried hibiscus flowers or 6 hibiscus tea bags
• 3 tablespoons dried fruit powder, like raspberry or strawberry
• 1-1/2 tablespoons refined white sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon or lime juice
• 4 tablespoons unflavored gelatin
• 24 dose servings of CBD-rich tincture or oil**

**To figure out the dosage, multiple the individual dose by 24. For example, if you normally take 1 dropper (1ml, or approximately 20 drops), you’ll want to add 24 ml to the gummies. Alternately, if you’re aiming for a specific number of milligrams of CBD per gummy, you’ll need to do some math. Multiply the target gummy dosage by 24, so you’ll achieve 10mg gummies by adding 240mg of CBD to the recipe.

Directions

Step 1: Make hibiscus tea

Bring the water to a boil and pour it over the hibiscus flours (or hibiscus tea bags) in a heatproof cup or bowl. Let the mixture steep for 5 minutes before straining out the flowers. Measure out 3/4 cup tea and discard any remaining liquid.

Step 2: Simmer the gummy base

Place the 3/4 cup hibiscus tea in a small saucepan along with the dried fruit powder, sugar and lemon juice. Stir the mixture with a whisk until it’s well combined. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat, cooking until it’s hot but not boiling.

Slowly sprinkle the gelatin mixture into the pot, whisking continuously to ensure the gelatin dissolves. Continue to cook the mixture over medium-low heat until the gelatin is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glassy.

Editor’s Tip: Instead of using sugar, feel free to swap in two tablespoons honey or agave. For a sugar-free option, use 1/2 to 1 teaspoon stevia or monk fruit extract (to taste).

Step 3: Add the CBD tincture

Remove the mixture from the heat and add the CBD-infused tincture. Stir well, until the tincture is well-dispersed.

Editor’s Tip: The gummy mixture can become foamy if it was whisked vigorously during the mixing process. The foam doesn’t affect the final flavor, but some don’t like the texture, and it will prevent the gummies from being perfectly clear. To remove the foam, let the gummy mixture cool and solidify before reheating it over gentle heat with little to no mixing. The foam layer will rise to the top, where it can be scooped off with a spoon.

Step 4: Pour the mixture into a gummy mold

Place the gummy mold on a rimmed baking sheet. Using a small pipette or a spoon, carefully fill the gummy mold with the mixture. The liquid will begin to solidify after it’s removed from the heat, so work as quickly as you can! Remove any large bubbles by poking them with a toothpick or gently tapping the mold against the countertop.

Chill the gummies in the refrigerator until they’re firm, about 2 hours.

Step 5: Release the gummies

When the gummies are firm, release them from the mold by inverting the mold or popping them out from the bottom. To make the gummies chewier, let them air-dry on a wire rack in a dry room for about 24 hours.

Step 6: Sugar the gummies (optional)

To give the gummies a sugar coating, pour a small amount of sugar in a bowl. Add the gummies a few at a time and toss them in the sugar until they’re well coated. Let them air-dry on a wire rack for an hour before storing.

How to Store CBD Gummies

It’s best to store CBD gummies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They become dense and chewy when exposed to air, and they can become overly dried over time. For best texture, we don’t recommend leaving them out for more than 24 hours. If the gummies start to stick together in the container, toss them in a little cornstarch.

How Long Do CBD Gummies Last?

Our CBD gummies don’t contain any preservatives, so it’s best to consume them within two weeks. You can also freeze them in a freezer bag, where they’ll last a year. Frozen gummies are definitely chewier than the fresh ones, but they still taste great!

Can You Make Other Flavors of CBD Gummies?

We make our CBD gummies with hibiscus tea and dried fruit powder. The hibiscus is rich in healthful polyphenols, and it lends a nice, tart flavor to the gummies. That said, you can absolutely change up the flavor profile of this gummy recipe. Instead of the hibiscus, try any unsweetened fruit juice, like apple juice or grape juice, You can also play around with the fruit powder and make your own by grinding freeze-dried fruit in a spice grinder.

Want to find other ways to cook with CBD oil? We have recipes for cannabutter and CBD brownies, too. And if you’d rather buy your edibles, check out our most recommended CBD gummies and other infused treats.

The post How to Make CBD Gummies at Home appeared first on Taste of Home.

Potential Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

While apple cider vinegar has been a folk remedy for a long time, scientists are still researching its benefits. They may help with:

• High blood sugar
• Weight loss
• Digestion
• Immunity
• High blood pressure
• Sore throat or congestion
• Stopping infection
• Increasing energy
• Used externally, there are several beauty benefits to using apple cider vinegar.

Common Apple Cider Vinegar Questions:

Can I Drink Apple Cider Vinegar Every Day?

Many proponents of ACV advise taking 1-2 tablespoons daily, whether in a drink or with food. As with any remedy, you should check with your doctor first, especially if you’re pregnant.

Is It Better To Drink Apple Cider Vinegar in the Morning or at Night?

Sip your apple cider vinegar drink first thing in the morning or right before a meal. Taken before a meal, the vinegar drink can help you feel full faster, which can aid in weight loss. Take a look at these unexpected ways to use apple cider vinegar around the house.

Should I Take a Shot of Apple Cider Vinegar?

No! Taking a shot of vinegar alone is an acidic blast that can harm the enamel of your teeth and even damage your esophagus and lungs. The key is to dilute the vinegar in water. Here are some other common mistakes to avoid when taking apple cider vinegar.

Can You Drink Apple Cider Vinegar on an Empty Stomach?

Yes, you can drink diluted apple cider vinegar on an empty stomach. In fact, it’s the recommended way to take ACV. Just wait about 20 minutes or so after drinking apple cider vinegar to eat.

How to Make an Apple Cider Vinegar Drink

The ratio:

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (We like Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar)
• 8 ounces water

Even diluted, the vinegar drink may not taste fabulous, so you can add a squeeze of honey and/or a dash of cinnamon or ginger.

Sip the drink slowly. If you’re drinking ACV daily, you may want to drink through a straw to prevent wearing the enamel of your teeth. Next, check out some of our favorite homemade beauty recipes.

It’s easy to make healthy eating part of your everyday routine with these five-ingredient healthy recipes.

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White Wine Garlic ChickenThis garlic chicken is great over cooked brown rice or your favorite pasta. Don't forget a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, too. Heather Esposito, Rome, New YorkShop Now

Sage-Rubbed SalmonIf youve always thought of sage with turkey, try it with salmon for a little taste of heaven. We serve this with rice, salad and sauteed green beans. Nicole Raskopf, Beacon, New York

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Grilled Buttermilk ChickenI created this recipe years ago after one of our farmers market customers, a chef, shared the idea of marinating chicken in buttermilk. The chicken is easy to prepare and always turns out moist and delicious! I bruise the thyme sprigs by twisting them before adding them to the buttermilk mixture; this tends to release the oils in the leaves and flavor the chicken better. Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin

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Shredded Kale and Brussels Sprouts SaladThis salad is a simple and delicious way to eat your superfoods! It gets even better after it sits for a while in the fridge, so I make it ahead. I use my homemade honey mustard dressing, but any type works just fine. Alexandra Weisser, New York, New York

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Spicy Plum SalmonI created this sweet and spicy salmon after being challenged to use healthier ingredients. The fresh plum sauce really complements the smoky grilled fish. Cheryl Hochstettler, Richmond, Texas

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Jicama Citrus SaladNever tried jicama? It is a crunchy Mexican turnip, and I love to use it in this super easy salad. The jicama is ideal alongside the vibrant flavors of the tangerines and shallots. Between the sweet and sour flavors in this salad and its crunchy texture, it's all delish if you ask me. Crystal Jo Bruns, Iliff, Colorado

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Garden-Fresh Rainbow ChardChard, a member of the beet family, is prized for its green leaves and colorful stalks. Stir up these good-for-you greens with garlic and red onion. Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Lemony Zucchini RibbonsFresh zucchini gets a shave and a drizzle of lemony goodness in this fab salad. Sprinkle the goat cheese or feta on top and dive in. Ellie Martin Cliffe, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Breakfast Sweet PotatoesBaked sweet potatoes aren't just for dinner anymore. Top them with breakfast favorites to power up your morning. Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Asparagus Nicoise SaladIve used my Nicoise as an appetizer or a main-dish salad, and its a winner every time I put it on the table. Heres to a colorful, make-ahead salad! Jan Meyer, St. Paul, Minnesota

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Crab Phyllo CupsI always like a little extra chili sauce on top of these easy snacks. If you're out of crab, water-packed tuna works well too. Johnna Johnson, Scottsdale, Arizona

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Saucy Raspberry ChickenI first had this as a teenage babysitter, when the childrens mom prepared it for us to eat while she was out. The kids loved it, and so did I! Now I make it for my own kids.

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Pina Colada Carrot SaladThis sweet carrot salad, with pina colada yogurt, macadamia nuts and green grapes, has a tropical theme. Just mix and chill out. Emily Tyra, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Curry ScrambleI have eggs every morning, and this is a delightful change from the classic scrambled egg meal. I like to add sliced peppers on top if I have them on hand. Valerie Belley, St. Louis, Missouri

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Cod with Bacon & Balsamic TomatoesLet's face it, everything really is better with bacon. I fry it, add cod fillets to the pan and finish it all with a big, tomato-y pop. Maureen McClanahan, St. Louis, Missouri

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Warm Tasty Greens with GarlicMy farm box had too many greens, so I had to use them up. This tasty idea uses kale, tomatoes and garlic in a dish that quickly disappears. Martha Neth, Aurora, Colorado

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Tomato & Avocado SandwichesI'm a vegetarian, and this is a tasty, quick and healthy lunch I could eat for every meal. At my house, we call these sandwiches HATS: hummus, avocado, tomato and shallots. These are ingredients I almost always have on hand. Sarah Jaraha, Moorestown, New Jersey

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Red Potato Salad DijonMy mother made the best warm potato salad, and now it's a tradition at all of our tables. Sometimes I use Yukon Gold potatoes to make it even prettier. Patricia Swart, Galloway, New Jersey

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Garbanzo-Stuffed Mini PeppersMini peppers are so colorful and are the perfect size for a two-bite appetizer. They have all the crunch of pita chips but without the extra calories. Christine Hanover, Lewiston, California

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Chicken Pesto Roll-UpsOne night I looked in the refrigerator and pondered what I could make with chicken, cheese, mushrooms and pesto. This pretty dish was the result. Add Italian bread and a fruit salad for a complete meal! Melissa Nordmann, Mobile, AL

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Lemon Salmon with BasilAt our house we opt for healthy foods, and this lemony salmon with basil is a knockout in the good-for-you category. We have it with asparagus or zucchini. Shanna Belz, Prineville, Oregon

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Nectarine and Beet SaladBeets, nectarines and feta cheese make for scrumptious additions to mixed greens. While the combination of ingredients may seem unlikely, I guarantee it will become a favorite salad on your home menu. Nicole Werner, Ann Arbor, Michigan

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Marinated OrangesThis flavorful fruit was actually the topping in a cake recipe. But I didn't want all the calories or fat from the cakeand the oranges are a good dessert all by themselves! The dash of vanilla extract brings out the fruit's sweetness. Carol Poindexter, Norridge, Illinois

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Roasted BeetsThis roasted beets recipe makes ordinary beets taste tender and delicious with just a few sweet and good-for-you ingredients. Wendy Stenman, Germantown, Wisconsin

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Balsamic Cucumber SaladCucumber salad recipes are my absolute favorite! This fast, fresh salad is a winner at every get together. It's an easygoing, healthy side dish for kabobs, chicken or anything hot off the grill. Blair Lonergan, Rochelle, Virginia

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Rosemary Pork LoinI started growing rosemary in my garden after I discovered this pork recipe. My husband and I think its restaurant quality, and we look forward to making it after work. Judy Learned, Boyertown, Pennsylvania

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Spicy Grilled EggplantThis side dish goes well with any meat you might also be grilling. Thanks to the Cajun seasoning, the zesty eggplant gets more attention than an ordinary veggie. —Greg Fontenot, The Woodlands, Texas

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Mocha Pumpkin SeedsRoasted pumpkin seeds are a classic fall snack. Kick them up a notch with instant coffee and cocoa powder for a mix thats mocha genius at any time of year. Rebekah Beyer, Sabetha, Kansas

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Crispy Dill TilapiaEvery week I try to serve a new healthy fish. With its fresh dill and delicious panko bread crumb herb crust, this dish with mild tilapia is a winner. Tamara Huron, New Market, Alabama

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Honey-Garlic Brussels SproutsAt a holiday dinner recently, I had the best Brussels sprouts ever! They were seasoned to perfection and lightly sweetened. I've tried to re-create the dish, and this comes very close. It has just the right amount of garlic and sweetness. Robin Haas, Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts

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Peanut Butter, Honey & Pear Open-Faced SandwichesI work a 12-hour night shift at a hospital, and when I come home in the morning, I don't want to cook a big breakfast. I love these sandwiches because they're versatile; sometimes I use apples instead of pears and different cheeses, such as Brie or grated Parmesan. L.J.Washington, Carpinteria, California

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Cucumber Melon SaladThis colorful salad is tangy and delicious. The unexpected combination is such a pleasant surprise. You can use whatever type of melon you have on hand. Edie Farm, Farmington, New Mexico

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Homemade YogurtYou'll be surprised by how easy it is to make homemade yogurt. Top with granola and your favorite berries. Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Zesty Sugar Snap PeasLemon-pepper seasoning and garlic make these crisp-tender sugar snap peas flavorful and an ideal accompaniment to a variety of entrees. You'll come to rely on this six-ingredient dish. Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Flank Steak with Cilantro Salsa VerdeEven though steak is always a winner in our house, to make it even more special I add jarred salsa verde and top with freshly chopped tomato and avocado. Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia

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Thyme-Sea Salt CrackersThese homemade crackers are decidedly light and crispy. An addictive snack on their own, they also pair well with a sharp white cheddar. Jessica Wirth, Charlotte, North Carolina

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Strawberry Tomato SalsaHeres a sweet and tangy salsa that's miles away from the spicy version people expect. Serve it as an appetizer with tortilla chips for scooping, or make it part of the main event and spoon it over chicken or pork. Amy Hinkle, Topeka, Kansas

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Caesar Salmon with Roasted Tomatoes & ArtichokesThis is my "go to" recipe for quick dinners, family or guests. It's colorful, healthy, easy to prepare and absolutely delicious. The best part is it only calls for five ingredients! Mary Hawkes, Prescott, Arizona

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Brussels Sprouts with Garlic & Goat CheeseI wanted to up my veggie game, so I smothered Brussels sprouts with garlic and goat cheese. It's really a side dish, but I love to eat it for lunch! Brenda Williams, Santa Maria, California

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Grilled Lemon-Dill ShrimpThis grilled shrimp is one of my go-to recipes when I stare at the freezer and draw a blank. Add veggies if desired, but grill them separately. Jane Whittaker, Pensacola, Florida

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Sauteed Radishes with Green BeansIve heard radishes are the only vegetable you dont cook, but a cookbook from the 1950s disagrees. Green beans and wax beans round out this dish. Pam Kaiser, Mansfield, Missouri

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Goat Cheese & Ham OmeletAs a busy working mom, my breakfast needs to require minimal prep. I often combine the egg mixture beforehand and refrigerate it overnight. Then all I have to do in the morning is heat up my skillet. My favorite part is the goat cheese filling, which gets nice and creamy from the heat of the omelet. Lynne Dieterle, Rochester Hills, Michigan

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Mint Watermelon SaladI invented this refreshing fruit salad one sultry afternoon while my friends were gathered around my pool. It was quick to prepare and disappeared from their plates even quicker. The kids loved it too! Antoinette DuBeck, Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania

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Banana Oatmeal PancakesStart your day with a stack of banana oatmeal pancakes that are filled with nutrient-rich grains, oats, bananas and walnuts.

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Grilled Basil Chicken and TomatoesRelax after work with a cold drink while this savory chicken marinates in an herby tomato blend for an hour, then toss it on the grill. It tastes just like summer. Laura Lunardi, West Chester, Pennsylvania

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Fast Fruit SalsaWe like this refreshing and colorful salsa served with tortilla chips or spooned over grilled chicken. For another fruity option, try stirring in some diced cantaloupe or peaches when they're in season. Eileen Miller, Woodridge, Illinois

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Cod and Asparagus BakeThe lemon pulls this flavorful and healthy dish together. You can use grated Parmesan cheese instead of Romano if you'd like. Thomas Faglon, Somerset, New Jersey

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Yogurt & Honey Fruit CupsA tasty combo of fresh fruit and creamy orange-kissed yogurt, this is guaranteed to disappear fast from your breakfast table. Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Rosemary WalnutsMy Aunt Mary started making this recipe years ago. Each time we visited, she would have a batch ready for us. The use of cayenne adds an unexpected zing to the savory combo of rosemary and walnuts. When you need a good housewarming or hostess gift, double the batch and save half for yourself. Renee Ciancio, New Bern, North Carolina

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Feta Scrambled Egg WrapsMy daughter jokes that I am so predictable when it comes to dining out. I always order chicken souvlaki. So I thought, why not incorporate my favorite Greek dish into a breakfast wrap? It's healthy, tasty and easy to make.Mary Jo Kempf, West Seneca, New York

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Tarragon AsparagusI grow purple asparagus, so I'm always looking for new ways to prepare it. Recently, my husband and I discovered how wonderful any color of asparagus tastes when it's grilled. Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin

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Mediterranean ChickenAs special as it is simple to prepare, this flavorful skillet creation is dressed in tomatoes, olives and capers. Its a knockout main dish at my house. Mary Relyea, Canastota, New York

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Homemade Peanut ButterWe eat a lot of peanut butter, so I decided to make my own. My homemade version is easier on my wallet, and I know what ingredients are in it. It's also a lot tastier! Marge Austin, North Pole, Alaska

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Herbed Pork ChopsHerbs are a fast and flavorful way to dress up pork. Plus, they make the chops look so pretty on a platter. I prepare these year-round as a way to capture the taste of summer. Dianne Esposite, New Middletown, Ohio

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Garlic Pumpkin SeedsWondering what to do with all those pumpkin seeds guests will be scooping out at your pumpkin-carving party? This yummy, microwave-easy recipe is the answer! Save some for yourself before they're gone! Iola Egle, Bella Vista, Arkansas

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Roasted Green Bean SaladThis easy recipe turns homegrown green beans into something special. A tangy dill and Dijon vinaigrette coats the beans without overpowering them so the fresh-picked flavor comes through. Kathy Shell, San Diego, California

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Zucchini Pizza BitesZucchini pizza bites are the ideal low-carb snack when the pizza craving strikes, or the delicious way to get more vegetables into diets of all ages.

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Caprese SkewersLight, satisfyingand healthful in one impossibly easy-to-make dish? Yes, please! Enjoy these Caprese skewers as an app, side dishtruly perfect paired with grilled meat or poultryor a convenient snack. Every bite is a little taste of summer.

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Parmesan Baked CodThis is a goof-proof way to keep oven-baked cod moist and flavorful. My mom shared this recipe with me years ago and I've loved it ever since. Mary Jo Hoppe, Pewaukee, Wisconsin

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No-Fuss Avocado Onion SaladMy mother, Nena, grew up in Cuba and learned many styles of cooking. She had a knack for making something incredibly simple taste amazing. This salad is proof. By itself, the dressing is really tart, but add the avocados and onions and it's the perfect complement. —Marina Castle Kelley, Canyon Country, California

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Grilled Brown Sugar-Mustard ChickenI came up with this recipe in college and it's been a household staple ever since. It's a snap to throw together with ingredients I have on hand. Kendra Doss, Colorado Springs, Colorado

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Pea Soup with QuinoaThis soup is low in fat, high in fiber, and has a fantastically fresh flavor and wonderful texture. Best of all, its so simple to make. Jane Hacker Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Sausage Spinach SaladWant a fast way to turn a salad into a hearty meal? Add sausage. The mustard dressing also goes well with smoked salmon or chicken. Deborah Williams, Peoria, Arizona

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Whole Wheat PancakesTo fix a large batch of tender pancakes for my five children, I rely on this quick and wholesome recipe. It calls for whole wheat flour and buttermilk, which make the pancakes filling but also light. Serve them with hot chocolate for a breakfast that's sure to delight little ones. Line Walter, Wayne, Pennsylvania

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Minty Watermelon-Cucumber SaladCapturing the fantastic flavors of summer, this refreshing, beautiful watermelon-cucumber salad will be the talk of any picnic or potluck. Roblynn Hunnisett, Guelph, Ontario

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Turkey & Apricot WrapsFor these wraps, I combined the traditional Southern appetizer of jam and cream cheese with the turkey, apple and Brie sandwiches we ate at my bridal luncheon. I like to sneak fresh spinach into recipes because it has such a mild flavor. Kim Beavers, North August, South Carolina

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Spicy Pumpkin & Corn SoupA seriously quick dish, it can satisfy a hungry household in 15 minutes. My family loves sharing this soup with cornbread, or you can add a zesty kick with some Rotel. Heather Rorex, Winnemucca, Nevada

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Pork Chops with Honey-Garlic SauceThe sauce on these honey garlic pork chops is so good, I sometimes double it so there's extra for dipping whatever veggie we have on the side. Michelle Smith, Eldersburg, Maryland

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Kale SaladI love making meals that wow everyone. The flavor and nutrition in this kale salad set it apart from other 30-minute creations. Gina Myers, Spokane, Washington

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Lemon Basil SalmonMy husband came up with this easy, foil-packet recipe for flaky, fork-tender salmon. This recipe is a winner. Marianne Bauman Modesto, CA

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Dill-Marinated BroccoliA co-worker tipped me off to this splashy marinade for broccoli. The longer you wait, the better it gets. Add some fresh cauliflower if you have it. Tiffony Bush, Huntingdon, Pennsylvania

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Sauteed Pork Chops with Garlic SpinachMy family enjoys cooking easy and delicious meals. This pork chop recipe is also inexpensive, which makes cooking easier for everyone. Keep an eye on the spinachit cooks fast! Joe Valerio, Whitinsville, Massachusetts

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Cucumber and Red Onion SaladThis cucumber and onion salad is one of the first recipes I came up with myself. It's a great salad for picnics or potlucks. I always come home with an empty bowl! Brynn Steckman, Westerville, Ohio

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Pork Chops with Dijon SauceHere's a main course that tastes rich yet isn't high in saturated fat. It's easy for weeknights, but the creamy sauce makes it special enough for weekends. Bonnie Brown-Watson, Houston, Texas

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Sweet Potato & Bean QuesadillasSweet potatoes and black beans roll up together for a quesadilla thats easy, fast, fun and delicious. Brittany Hubbard, St. Paul, Minnesota

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Chicken & Vegetable Curry CouscousFor my busy family, a semi-homemade one-pot meal is the easiest way to get dinner done in a hurry. Use your favorite blend of frozen veggies and serve with toasted pita bread for smiles all around. Elizabeth Hokanson, Arborg, Manitoba

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Grilled Basil ChickenThis cinch of a marinade gives the chicken lots of Italian flavor. Serve the chicken with a tossed green salad and garlic breadsticks, or put slices on a ciabatta roll along with lettuce, tomato and mozzarella cheese for a zesty handheld meal. Lisa Moriarty, Wilton, New Hampshire

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Parmesan Roasted BroccoliSure, its simple and healthy but, oh, this roasted broccoli is also delicious. Cutting the stalks into tall trees turns the ordinary veggie into a standout side dish. Holly Sander, Lake Mary, Florida

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Thyme-Roasted CarrotsCutting the carrots lengthwise makes this dish look extra pretty. For a little more elegance and color, garnish with sprigs of fresh thyme or parsley. Deirdre Cox, Kansas City, Missouri

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Asian Salmon TacosThis Asian/Mexican fusion dish is ready in minutesperfect when time is tight! If the salmon begins to stick, add 2-3 tablespoons of water and continue cooking. Marisa Raponi, Vaughan, Ontario

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Baked Parmesan Breaded SquashBaked yellow squash is beautifully crispy. You dont have to turn the pieces, but do keep an eye on them. Debi Mitchell, Flower Mound, Texas

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Dijon-Honey Pork ChopsLemon-pepper is our seasoning of choice for these chops. With the honey-orange Dijon sauce, theres no need to pass the salt. Shirley Goehring, Lodi, California

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Easy Homemade Chunky ApplesauceHere's a comforting, home-style treat that never loses its appeal. Dish up big bowlfuls and wait for the smiles! Marilee Cardinal, Burlington, New Jersey

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Balsamic-Seasoned SteakThis simple recipe ensures a tender steak without a long marinating time. Steak sauce and balsamic vinegar are a great team, and you cant go wrong with melty Swiss on top.

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Orange AppealOranges add color and great taste to winter meals! This dish looks very bright and appealing served in a glass bowl, and it's a light and easy dessert to finish off a hearty holiday meal. As far as I'm concerned, the citrusy aroma of oranges is a must at Christmas time! Billie Moss, Walnut Creek, California

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Grilled Tilapia PiccataWe arent big fish eaters, but a friend made this for us, and we couldnt believe how wonderful it was! Now we eat it regularly. I love making it for guests because its simple, looks lovely and tastes restaurant-worthy. Beth Cooper, Columbus, Ohio

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Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh BasilRoasting really brings out the flavor of the tomatoes in this wonderful soup. It has a slightly chunky texture that shows it's fresh and homemade. Marie Forte, Raritan, New Jersey

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Lemon Chicken with BasilNo matter when I eat it, this tangy slow-cooked chicken reminds me of summer meals with friends and family. Deborah Posey, Virginia Beach, Virginia

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Pesto HalibutThe mildness of halibut contrasts perfectly with the robust flavor of pesto in this recipe. It takes only minutes to get the fish ready for the oven, leaving you plenty of time to get started on your side dishes. Nearly anything goes well with this entree. April Showalter, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Mango & Grilled Chicken SaladWe live in the hot South, and this awesome fruity chicken salad is a weeknight standout. I buy salad greens and add veggies for color and crunch. Sherry Little, Sherwood, Arkansas

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Balsamic Chicken with Roasted TomatoesThis entree is a fantastic way to savor fresh tomatoes, especially during the warm summer months. Its quite simple, but the sweet, tangy tomato glaze is so good. Karen Gehrig, Concord, North Carolina

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Lemon-Garlic Pork ChopsMy son James created these zesty chops spiced with paprika and cayenne. He keeps the spice rub in a jar to use with chops or chicken. Molly Seidel, Edgewood, New Mexico

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Grilled Shrimp with Spicy-Sweet SauceThese finger-lickin' shrimp practically fly off the platter at my get-togethers. Play with the amount of sriracha to get the spice level just the way you like it. Susan Harrison, Laurel, Maryland

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The post How to Make an Apple Cider Vinegar Drink (and Why You Should) appeared first on Taste of Home.

But what about drinking water before bed? Check out the benefits as well as one big drawback before making room on your nightstand for a midnight thirst quencher.

Pro: Better temperature control

If you’re the type of sleeper who is always tossing and turning because you’re either freezing or overheating, having a glass of water before bed may help. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drinking water helps keep your body temperature in a normal range. When you’re dehydrated, you’re more likely to feel too cold or hot. Try sipping warm water or decaf tea to relax in the evenings.

Pro: Glowing skin

Wake up to glowing skin when you end your day with a tall glass of water. When you’re dehydrated, your skin appears dull and sagging. Plump it up by drinking more water throughout the day. Hydrated skin is also less likely to have premature wrinkles, so treat yourself to a DIY face mask and cool glass of water tonight.

Pro: Easier breathing

If you ever wake at night with asthma or allergy symptoms, try keeping a water bottle on your nightstand. When you’re dehydrated, your airway constricts (becomes narrower) and this can make it harder to breathe. Drink a glass of water before bed to keep your respiratory system hydrated and relaxed.

Pro: Healthier immune system

Drinking water throughout the day keeps you healthy by flushing out bacteria from your system. When you’re dehydrated, that bacteria can sit in your bladder, leading to a urinary tract or other types of infection. If you haven’t had enough water today, drink plenty at night to ward off illness.

Here’s exactly how much water you should drink each day. Hint: It’s not eight glasses for everyone.

Pro: Less stress on your heart

Staying hydrated is an easy way to keep your heart healthy. Our heart pumps blood to the entire body, so when you’re hydrated, the blood pumps more easily and takes the stress off of your heart. Along with eating a heart-healthy diet, drinking water during the day supports your heart and every other vital organ.

Is drinking water before bed good for your heart?

Drinking water at any time of day is good for your heart. If you’re thirsty at bedtime, that means that your body needs water, so go ahead and pour yourself a glass before turning in for the night.

Pro: Weight loss

Multiple research studies have found a link between drinking water and losing weight. This may be due to the fact that staying hydrated boosts metabolism. When you’re dehydrated, your body doesn’t have the energy to burn extra calories, so be sure to sip water throughout the day to keep your metabolism humming along.

Does drinking water before bed make you gain weight?

While drinking water throughout the day is linked with weight loss, drinking water before bed may indirectly lead to weight gain. That’s because of the one major drawback to bedtime water drinkingdisrupted sleep.

Con: Disrupted sleep

Despite all of the benefits of drinking water before bed, each one could be canceled out by the one drawback. When you drink water right before falling asleep, you’re more likely to wake up at night to use the bathroom. While one or two wake-ups may not seem like a big deal at the time, chronically disrupted sleep can wreak havoc on our health.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, individuals who don’t get enough sleep are more likely to experience chronic heart disease, diabetes, obesity and depression. Sleep is crucial for restoring our health each night and repairing muscles and organs.

What is the best time to drink water?

It’s still healthy to drink water at any time of day, including bedtime, as long as it does not disturb your sleep. If you notice that you’re waking up for bathroom trips each night, stop drinking water one to two hours before bed to see if that helps. Each of our bodies is different, so the right time to stop drinking water for the day will vary for everyone.

Next up, Learn about the best and worst drinks for hydration.

The post The Pros and Cons of Drinking Water Before Bed appeared first on Taste of Home.

This food safety rule is important for everyone, particularly children, pregnant women, the elderly and those with compromised immune systems.

Why can’t you eat raw cookie dough?

Eating raw eggs can cause salmonella infection

One of the major concerns with raw cookie dough is raw eggs. The outside of raw eggs can be contaminated with salmonella bacteria, and washing them won’t help. In fact, it could increase the risk by removing the protective coating around the egg, which lets the bacteria enter the egg via the pores on the shell. Salmonella can cause fever, diarrhea, abdominal cramps and a headache that lasts four to seven days.

Uncooked flour can be contaminated with E. coli

Flour can be contaminated with E. coli bacteria. As wheat grows in fields, it can come into contact with pathogens. When consumed, an E. coli infection can involve diarrhea, stomach cramping and nausea for up to one week.

You don’t need to eat raw flour in large amounts to get sick. According to a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, the bacteria is not evenly distributed throughout a bag of flour, so even sampling a small amount could put you at risk. Luckily, protecting yourself from illness is easy: You should wash your hands, clean your kitchen utensils and bake your chocolate chip cookies to kill bacteria.

The same is true for raw batter, so wait to enjoy your brownies until after they come out of the oven.

Can you eat store-bought cookie dough raw?

Yes, if it’s labeled “safe to eat raw.” To make dough that’s designed to be devoured straight out of the jar, brands heat-treat the flour and pasteurize the eggs.

Is there a safe way to eat raw homemade cookie dough?

No, because the FDA recommends against eating raw flour. Some sources say it’s possible to heat treat flour at home by baking it or microwaving it, but FDA experts say home treatments like this may not effectively kill all bacteria. The safest way to get your chocolate chip fix is by waiting until the cookies are baked and cooled.

Recipes for Safe Cookie Dough Desserts

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Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough CheesecakeIf you love to nibble the cookie dough while youre baking, this cookie dough cheesecake is for you. Its studded with (eggless) cookie dough in every slice!

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Quick Double Chocolate BiscottiRefrigerated cookie dough gives you a head start on making biscotti from scratch. For true chocolate lovers, substitute chocolate chips for the vanilla. Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Chocolate Chip DipNext time youre tasked with bringing the dip or dessert, make our chocolate chip dip for an unexpected dish that everyone will love. Dont forget to serve it with graham crackers, strawberries and other sweets!

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Chocolate Chip Cheesecake BarsThese irresistible chocolate chip cheesecake Bars are the perfect blend of chewy chocolate chip cookie and creamy cheesecake. They're the ideal treat for any occasion and easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

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Chocolate Chip Cookie DelightThis is a simple chocolate dessert recipe for any type of potluck occasion, and the pan always comes home empty. Diane Windley, Grace, Idaho

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Quick Icebox SandwichesMy mother liked making these cool, creamy treats when I was growing up in the States because they're so quick to fix. Then I made them for my three kids.Sandy Armijo, Naples, Italy

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Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese BarsLower in fat and calories than you might ever guess, these sweet bars couldn't be easier to whip up, boast a great chocolaty flavor, and make a fun, quick dessert to bring to parties or serve to company! Jennifer Rafferty, Milford, Ohio

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Chocolate Chip Cheese BallYour guests are in for a sweet surprise when they try this chocolate chip cheese ballit tastes just like cookie dough! Rolled in chopped pecans, this chip-studded spread is wonderful on regular or chocolate graham crackers. I especially like it because it can be assembled in a wink. Kelly Glascock, Syracuse, Missouri

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Cookie Dough BrowniesWhen I take these rich brownies to any get-together, I carry the recipe, too, because it always gets requested. Children of all ages love the tempting "cookie dough" filling. This special treat is typically the first to be gone from the buffet tableeven before the entrees! Wendy Bailey, Elida, Ohio

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Chocolate Chip Ice Cream PieI got the recipe for this pie from my mom, but I changed the crust to cookie dough. Because the crust will harden after being frozen, dip a knife in hot water first, wipe the knife off and then cut. Repeat the process if needed. Letitia Landis, Rochester, Indiana

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Cookie Dough TrufflesThe flavorful filling at the center of these yummy candies tastes like genuine chocolate chip cookie doughwith no worry about raw eggs. That's what makes them so appealing. And they're easy to make. Lanita Dedon, Slaughter, Louisiana

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Sure, we all know Birthday Cake Pancakes may not be a nutrition-packed superstar at the breakfast table. But some unhealthy foods aren’t so easy to identify! We’re uncovering the sneaky go-to breakfast foods that are actually breakfast flops.

The post 9 Unhealthy Breakfast Foods That May Have Fooled You appeared first on Taste of Home.

We all know we’re supposed to drink lots of water. But that can be hard to do when water tastes so…watery. Luckily, it’s possible to get hydration from a variety of drinks, but we have to be careful that we’re not having too much of the ones that dehydrate.

That’s right: Some liquids actually encourage more water to leave your body. Plus a lot of tasty drinks include too much of things you’re looking to limit or cut out altogether, like sugar, carbs and a bunch of calories. Our list will help you determine which beverages are best for hydratingand which to avoid.

Do you really need 8 glasses of water a day? Find out what happens when one writer upped her intake.

The Best Hydration Drinks

Curious to see which beverages are the best for keeping enough fluid in you? The first three are hands-down your best hydrating choices; the rest are nice supplements.

Water

Surprised? Plain water is the best way to hydrate, no second guessing necessary. And this stylish water bottle makes it easy to drink enough.

Milk

Because it’s so much thicker than water, you might think that milk could dehydrate, but that’s not the case. In addition to calcium and vitamin D, milk contains protein to keep you fueled on even the hottest of days, another thing water can’t do. Milk: It’s not just for kids.Should you be buying organic milk? We found out.

Fruit-infused water

If it’s hard for you to drink plain water all day, infusing your water with fruit is a healthy way to add flavor without adding sugar. Our favorite combinations? Try adding lime and basil, cucumber with mint or any of these other infused water ideas. Bonus: You can flavor your own water with this handy infuser water bottle.

Fruit juice

Fruit juice contains about 85 percent water, which makes it super hydrating (just make sure you’re picking 100 percent fruit juice). The vitamins within natural fruits are also healthy. Be mindful of the sugar content, though, as juices can be packed with added sugars, which can inhibit hydration. If you’re drinking a lot of fruit juice, water it down. And for a special treat, why not freeze juice pops? Here’s a cantaloupe ice pop recipe with minimal sugar.

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Raw Generation Fruit Juice

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Watermelon

OK, so this isn’t a drink…but every time you eat watermelon, you’re retaining 92 percent of the liquid you’re eating. That’s better than fruit juice! You can try these other hydrating foods, too.

Sports drinks

Advertisements rave about the hydrating power of sports drinks, like Gatorade, which made us suspicious…but they’re actually onto something. The electrolytes, a science-y word for salts, in sports drinks can make hydration more effective. (Not to be too gross, but you know how sweat’s kinda salty? You want to add that back into your body.) Sports drinks also taste more flavorful than water, so they’re easier to drink quickly for those who force themselves to hydrate or who need quick hydration, like athletes. Again, watch the sugar and carb content, especially if you’re not working out. Unless you’re running a marathon, one rehydration drink is probably enough.

Tea

Caffeine-free teas are great, especially if it’s just an infusion of leaves in hot water. It doesn’t matter whether it’s herbal, black, green or chamomile; hot or coldtea is just about as hydrating as water. Tea is also packed with antioxidants. While the best option might be to avoid caffeine in general (it’s a diuretic, meaning it dehydrates!), drinking even regular tea in moderation will help you reach your daily goal.

Coconut water

Coconut water boasts 95 percent water content, which is better than fruit juice. It’s also typically healthier than juices and sports drinks when it comes to sugar content and added ingredients, but be sure to check the label! (Our best coconut recipes might not hydrate, but they’re good.)

Milk alternatives

The studies that found milk to be hydrating didn’t test other “milks,” like soy, coconut or almond, but the Cleveland Clinic recommended the unsweetened ones for kids as a way to keep hydrated in summer. So they’re a safe bet for adults, too. Here’s our ranking of dairy-free milks.

The WorstHydrationDrinks

Sneaky fact: Some liquids can actually work against your hydration goals. Make sure you’re not reaching for any of these beverages next time you’re thirstythey only dehydrate your body!

Soda

Soft drinks often contain caffeine, which is a culprit for dehydration; tons of sugar and sodium; and it’s bad for your bones and teeth, too. Although just about anything in moderation is fine, grabbing a Diet Coke when you’re thirsty might not do much to help. (Here’s the truth about diet soda.) Swap out soda for sparkling water if you love that carbonation while still giving your body the fluids it needs!

Beer

Consuming any kind of liquor removes water from your tissues, meaning you have to drink even more water to offset the effects. As a general rule of thumb, the higher the alcohol content, the more dehydrating your drink is. If you want to avoid dehydration, have a low-alcohol light beer.

Wine and hard liquor

Any alcoholic drink over 10 percent alcohol strength is a dehydrator, which means more of the liquid will leave your system than be absorbed. Most wines have around 12 percent, so they’re better than hard liquors (37 percent) but worse than beer (4-5 percent). Once again, we advise moderation. (How about a mocktail recipe instead?)

Cocktails with hard liquors, like vodka and rum, can be deceiving, especially if the recipes also include soda or fruit juice. Keep yourself hydrated by always drinking one glass of water for every alcoholic beverage you haveand consider switching to something less potent (like beer or wine)!

Hot cocoa

The bad news? One cup of hot chocolate contains more sugar and calories than a can of soda, dehydrating your system. The good news? You’re probably not drinking this in the summer, when it’s most important to consciously hydrate. In the winter, people tend to eat more soups and stews, which offer hydration, so having the occasional hot cocoa isn’t going to hurt.

Coffee

In moderation, coffee isn’t too bad, but once you go past that second cup, your body really starts to suffer. Drinking more than 200-300 milligrams of caffeinethe amount in two to three cups of coffeehas been shown to lead to dehydration. To keep yourself safe, switch to decaf or limit yourself to a cup or two. Bonus: Less coffee can make you less anxious.

Lemonade

Although the sweet-and-sour flavor can be tempting in the heat, lemonade is packed with sugars that don’t offer much toward your body’s needs.Swap this out for water infused with lemon slices and you’ll feel much healthier!

Sweet tea

This Southern staple screams summer, but when it comes to hydration, it’s not so sweet. The amount of added sugar in this drink cancels out any benefits that come with tea’s antioxidants, so it’s more like a dessert than a drink. That doesn’t mean you can’t drink it…it just means you have to drink plenty of water with it, too!

Energy drinks

Packed with caffeine, fake sugars and complicated chemicals, energy drinks are not hydrating. If you’re looking to energize while still getting in more liquids, we suggest tea.

Flavored milk

White milk on its own is totally fine, but you start to add unnecessary sugars when you throw flavors in there. Avoid chocolate, strawberry and vanilla milks and stick to good ol’ plain until you’re fully hydrated.

Smoothies

Fruit is healthy to eat on its own, but sometimes you can have too much of a good thing! Smoothies pack more fruit (read: more sugar) into your drinks than you’d think. Add that to the thick consistency and you may have a recipe for dehydration. That’s not to discount the other health benefits of smoothies, though. They’re great to refuel after exercise or kick-starting your day with a dose of vitamins. If you want to up the hydration factor, an easy solution is to double the amount of ice in your recipe. This will water down the drink without changing the taste too much. Try this trick on our amazing smoothie recipes.

Here's What to Eat After a Workout

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Tarragon Tuna SaladIt's surprising how a few herbs can brighten up tuna salad. Made with reduced-fat mayonnaise, this version gets its zip from mustard. It makes a terrific light lunch or Sunday brunch dish. Billie Moss, Walnut Creek, California

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Ginger-Kale SmoothiesSince I started making this green smoothie recipe for breakfast every day, I honestly feel better! Substitute any fruit and juice you like to make this recipe your own healthy blend.Linda Green, Kilauea, Kauai, Hawaii

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Here's why ginger is such a smart thing to eat after the gym.

Fruit-Filled French Toast WrapsHeres my go-to whenever we have brunch guests. If I have extra berries, I just make a fruit salad for later. Dawn Jarvis, Breckenridge, Minnesota

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Peanut Butter OatmealMy son and I eat this peanut butter oatmeal recipe every day for breakfast. It's a hearty, healthy way to jump start our morning. Elisabeth Reitenbach, Terryville, Connecticut

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Find more recipes for a healthy breakfast on the go.

Stir-Fry Rice BowlMy meatless version of Korean bibimbap is tasty, pretty and easy to tweak for different spice levels. Devon Delaney, Westport, Connecticut

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Cashew-Curry Chicken SaladMy husband and I fell hard for the curried chicken salad from our grocery store deli, and I knew I could find a way to make something similar. This greek yogurt chicken salad has become one of our favorites to take on trips to the beach. Janine Cooper-Moren, Portland, Oregon

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Peach SmoothieThe best things in life really can be the simplest. This peach smoothie uses just a few ingredients but tastes complex and delicious.

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You can create high-protein smoothies with whole foodshere's how.

Black Bean Chip & Dip BurgersI finally invented a healthy quinoa burger that wasn't dry and crumbly or really boring. These fit the billeven my grandkids prefer them over hamburgers. They taste like chips and dip in a burger! KT Rehrig, Allentown, Pennsylvania

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Colorful Quinoa SaladMy youngest daughter recently learned she has to avoid gluten, dairy and eggs, which gave me a new challenge in the kitchen. I put this dish together as a side we could all share. We love it for leftovers too. Catherine Turnbull, Burlington, Ontario

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Sweet Potato and Egg SkilletI try to incorporate nutritious sweet potatoes in meals as often as possible, especially with breakfast. I came up with this recipe to feed my family a healthy, hearty breakfastand it worked! Jeanne Larson, Rancho Santa Margarita, California

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Summer SaladThis is the perfect summer salad recipe for picnics and potlucks. It's full of pearl couscous, quinoa, colorful vegetables and fruit.

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Coconut-Ginger Chickpeas & TomatoesThis is my go-to quick dish. When you add tomatoes, you can also toss in some chopped green peppers (jalapenos, if you like heat) to make it even more colorful. Mala Udayamurthy, San Jose, California

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Banana Oatmeal PancakesStart your day with a stack of banana oatmeal pancakes that are filled with nutrient-rich grains, oats, bananas and walnuts.

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Did you know banana packs all sorts of health benefits?

Avocado & Garbanzo Bean Quinoa SaladThis delicious quinoa avocado salad is high in protein and holds well in the fridge for a few days. If you make it ahead, add avocados and tomatoes right before serving. Elizabeth Bennett, Seattle, Washington

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Chewy Honey Granola BarsThere's sweetness from the honey, chewiness from the raisins, hints of chocolate and cinnamon, and a bit of crunch. To save a few for later, wrap individual bars and place in a resealable freezer container. When you want a satisfying treat on short notice, just grab one and let it thaw for a few minutes. Tasha Lehman, Williston, Vermont

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Spinach-Mushroom Scrambled EggsMy husband and I had breakfast at a hotel and enjoyed an amazing mushroom and egg dish. As soon as I got home, I made my own rendition. Rachelle McCalla, Batesville, Arkansas

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Quinoa Chickpea SaladQuinoa contains more protein than other grains, and that protein is of unusually high quality for a plant food. That makes this a great filling main dish and the blend of flavors and colors will bring everyone at the table back for more. Suzanne Banfield, Basking Ridge, New Jersey

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Classic Avocado ToastThis is such an easy way to add avocados to your diet. Use healthy multigrain bread and top with sliced radishes and cracked pepper or lime zest, or chipotle peppers and cilantro. Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Zucchini Crust PizzaMy mother-in-law shared the recipe for this unique pizza with me. It's just right for brunch, lunch or a light supper. Loosen the nutritious zucchini crust from the pan with a metal spatula. Ruth Denomme, Englehart, Ontario

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Strawberry-Carrot SmoothiesMy children resist veggies, but they love this carrot smoothie. It packs in lots of good-for-you fruits and veggiesbut to my kids, it's just a super delicious breakfast. Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah

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Shrimp & Broccoli Brown Rice PaellaYears ago my husband and I were vacationing in France and came across an open market where a man from Spain was making paella in a skillet; we've been hooked ever since. I love to whip this up for a large group, but if the gathering is small, I know I can easily freeze leftovers for another time. Joni Hilton, Rocklin, California

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Tuna Nicoise SaladTuna Nicoise salad is a perfect lunch for a weekend or even to make ahead for the work week. Our recipe is traditional with tuna, tomatoes and beans, but is easily adaptable to suit your tastes.

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Powerhouse Protein ParfaitsParfaits have marvelous taste and texture, but many are loaded with sugar and leave you peckish for more. Heres my protein-inspired option with yogurt, fruit and nuts. Jen Hubin, Minnetonka, Minnestoa

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Asian QuinoaI love to cook andcome up with newrecipes. I serve this dish at least once a month and sometimes more. For a different twist, I'll occasionally add a scrambled egg oruse soy sauce instead of the rice vinegar. Sonya Labbe, Santa Monica, California

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Black Bean Chicken with RiceThis spicy family favorite calls for just a few basic ingredients, including chicken, black beans and rice, so its quick and easy to stir up in your skillet on a weeknight. Molly Newman, Portland, Oregon

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Nacho PopcornMy husband and I like to munch on this while watching TV. The nacho flavoring is a zesty alternative to butter and salt. Linda Boehme, Fairmont, Minnesota

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Turkey & Apricot WrapsFor these wraps, I combined the traditional Southern appetizer of jam and cream cheese with the turkey, apple and Brie sandwiches we ate at my bridal luncheon. I like to sneak fresh spinach into recipes because it has such a mild flavor. Kim Beavers, North August, South Carolina

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Chicken Tacos This chicken taco recipe features a light, refreshing salsa made from avocados and corn. The chicken takes on the perfect combination of seasonings as you cook this dish; you may even want to make extra because it's just that good.

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Farmer's Market Corn SaladI love fresh corn on the cob, especially grilled, so I am always looking for innovative ways to serve it. This recipe takes the corn right off the cob and combines it with fresh basil. Haras Cindie, Jupiter, Florida

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Asparagus Omelet Tortilla WrapSince this omelet is packed with whole grains, veggies and protein, all I have to do is add a side of fresh fruit for a healthy breakfast before work. Instead of asparagus, sometimes I make this with fresh spinach. Bonita Suter, Lawrence, Michigan

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Pan-Roasted Pork Chops & PotatoesAn easy marinade gives these chops lots of flavor, the crumb coating packs on crunch and Brussels sprouts add nutrition! Char Ouellette, Colton, Oregon

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Fresh Veggie PocketsOne summer I worked at a health food store that sold sandwiches. We were close to a college campus, so I made lots of these fresh-filled pitas for the students. Crunchy with crisp vegetables and nutty sunflower kernels, they're a fast-to-fix lunch when you're on the go.-Linda Reeves, Cloverdale, Indiana

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Ham & Egg WrapsThis is a great kid-friendly recipe that takes only 20 minutes to prepare and cook.Sharon Haswell, Cheshire, Massachusetts

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The post The Best and Worst Drinks to Keep You Hydrated appeared first on Taste of Home.

These are the foods you should never eat past the expiration date.

Sell By vs. Use By vs. Expiration Dates

Lets clear some things up. Theres a hugedifference between date labels that say sell by, use by, best if used by and expires on.

“The phrase, ‘best if used by’ is used to indicate quality onlyeven after this date, food is safe to eat,” says Lindsey Pasieka, an investigator for ConsumerSafety.org. “Another phrase, ‘expires on,’ is used to indicate the day that deterioration begins, after which a product may become unsafe to consume.”

She goes on to explain, “Sell by dates tell a milk seller, like a grocery store, when the product should leave the shelveseither in a customers arms or in the trash. For many, use by and sell by are essentially marketing terms. These allow milk producers to tell consumers when the peak freshness of the product is. They do not indicate the exact date the milk will go bad. Just like milk, you can eat these foods past their use by date, too.

These labels vary from state to state, so its not unusual for things to get a little confusing and for milk to be thrown out while its still safe for consumption.

However, its important to note that expiration dates vary based on what kind of milk youre purchasing, how its stored and how its packaged. For example,With raw or unpasteurized milk, these spoilage rates increase, as with milk made without preservatives, says Pasieka. Contamination can also jump-start bacteria growth, leading to sour milk.

By the way,these items have expiration dates, too.

How Long Can Milk Last After the Expiration Date?

How long milk lasts past its expiration date can depend on a number of factorswhether it’s opened, what kind it is and if it’s refrigerated.

How Long Does Unopened Milk Last?

According toEat By Date, whole milk lasts 5-7 days, reduced-fat and skim milk last 7 days and non-fat and lactose-free milk last 7-10 days past its printed date. This is if they’re unopened andrefrigerated.

How Long Does It Last After Opening?

Once opened, all milk lasts 4-7 days past its printed date, if refrigerated.

How Long Can Milk Sit Out?

And of course, where and how you store your milk is pivotal to its freshness. According to theFDA, if milk is left unrefrigerated for more than two hours, its considered unsafe to consume.

How to Tell If Milk Has Gone Bad

If you think that your milk might have prematurely expired, use your senses best judgment. Spoiled foods will develop an off odor, flavor or texture due to naturally occurring spoilage bacteria. If food has developed such spoilage characteristics, it should not be eaten, says the United States Department of Agriculture.

On the flip side, youll never have to worry about these foods ever expiring.

How to Store Milk the Right Way

Believe it or not, theres a specific location in your fridge where you should be keeping your milkand its not on the doors shelves.

According to Jen Giambroni, Director of Communications atReal California Milk, milk should be storedat 38 to 40F in the same containerit came in, andfar awayfrom the door. When milk is stored on the refrigerator doors shelves, its being exposed to warm air each time its opened, which encourages bacterial growth.

Also, be sure to tightly close the lid to your milk cartons, Pasieka adds. This helps reduce accidental contamination and odors from other refrigerated products.

Can You Freeze Milk?

If you have a batch you haven’t used up in time or just have too much for some reason, you can freeze milk! For best results, freeze it in an ice cube tray to make milk cubes. You can also freeze it in an airtight container.

Milk can last for several months in the freezer, but for best results, we recommend using it in the first month. After that, it starts separating and becomes grainy.

The post How Long Does Milk Last? Here’s the Real Answer appeared first on Taste of Home.

DIY Dry Shampoo

Whether you’re running late in the morning or giving your hair a break from washing, dry shampoo absorbs grease and refreshes hairno shower necessary. You can buy dry shampoo, but it’s easy to make at home, too:

Mix equal parts baking soda and corn starch (just enough for one use, or store a bigger batch in a jar). Use your fingertips to massage the powder into your scalp and roots. Let sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the starch to absorb oils, and brush out. Did you know that apple cider vinegar makes a good natural shampoo?

The post 12 Surprising Benefits of Baking Soda for Health and Beauty appeared first on Taste of Home.

Unlike some other vitamins, our bodies can’t make vitamin C, so we need to obtain it from our diets. When we don’t get enough vitamin C, we can experience fatigue, slower healing and more infections. According to the Arthritis Foundation, taking vitamin C may help prevent inflammatory arthritis. Unfortunately, when it comes to vitamin C, you can definitely have too much of a good thing.

This is how the vitamin C arthritis-connection could be affecting you.

The Dangers of Too Much Vitamin C

In 2004, Duke researchers found that when patients with osteoarthritis consumed high amounts of vitamin C, they were more at risk for developing bone spurs and joint damage. This was due to a protein in the blood triggered by vitamin C. Because a vitamin C deficiency can put you at a higher risk of developing arthritis, it’s important to find the right balance.

Take a look at the other foods to avoid if you have arthritis.

How Much Is Too Much?

The Office of Dietary Supplements recommends 90 milligrams of vitamin C for men and 75 milligrams for women each day, and the Arthritis Foundation agrees. This amount fulfills your body’s need for the vitamin without overdoing it.

The Best Sources of Vitamin C

It’s best to skip the supplements and opt for real foods instead. Vitamin C supplements like Emergen-C contain significantly more vitamin C than the recommended daily amount, which could put you at risk for arthritis complications.

Start with fresh fruits and vegetables. Of course, citrus fruits are a great source of vitamin C but watch the milligrams. Eating one whole orange will deliver 97 milligrams of vitamin C!

For men, one heaping cup of fresh broccoli will take care of your daily vitamin C requirements. For women, a baked potato has enough daily vitamin C.

Ideas for Salads That Star Fresh Citrus

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Blood Orange Avocado SaladMy refreshing side salad is such a nice addition to our calorie-loaded Thanksgiving dinner. Use regular oranges if you can't find blood oranges. Finely chopped walnuts work well in place of the pomegranate seeds, too. Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada

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Dandelion SaladThis is one my favorite salads and it is so healthy for you! Guests will be surprised at how wonderful it tastes. Frances Sheridan Goulart, Weston, Connecticut

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South-of-the-Border Citrus SaladOrange, grapefruit and jicama add color and texture to this out-of-the-ordinary fruit salad. Sometimes I'll toss in slices of mango and cucumber for extra fun. Mary Fuller, SeaTac, Washington

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Citrus Avocado SaladThis recipe nicely showcases grapefruit and oranges, which are at their peak around the holidays. Citrus fruits pair well with a sweet dressing. Sonia Candler, Edmonton, Alberta

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Citrus & Roasted Beets SaladGlistening citrus and beets star in this colorful, tangy salad. It's a refreshing mix of bright flavorsjust add chicken and it's a complete meal. Peter Eldridge, Clermont, Florida

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Favorite Fruit SaladI spend a lot of time in the kitchen, especially when our four children and nine grandchildren come to visit. They always ask for this salad when they're here for dinner. Doris Dion, Lake Ozark, Missouri

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Layered Fresh Fruit SaladPeople always pass on compliments when I take this salad to covered-dish suppers. It's nice on a hot day, with a winter meal, or as a dessert! We live on a small farm where my garden gives me lots of possibilities for fresh food. Page Alexander, Baldwin City, Kansas

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The post If You Have Arthritis, You Might Be Taking Too Much Vitamin C appeared first on Taste of Home.

When I called his pediatrician’s office to find out how we could help our little guy, the nurse suggested comfort measures like using honey as a cough suppressant and taking warm bathsbut we were to steer clear of conventional medicine.See, studies have shown that cold medicine isn’t safe or effective for little kids. That’s why you don’t see cough meds for infants and toddlers at the drugstore.

Great, I thought. Comfort measures. But then a fellow mama suggested that our whole family try elderberry syrup. At the time, the only things I knew about elderberries were that they make a delicious liqueur and that they’re used as an insult in my favorite scene ofMonty Python and the Holy Grail.Well, before we took the alternative medicine plunge, I wanted to do some reading.

How to Make Elderberry Syrup

The store-bought variety can be pretty pricey, so I chose to develop my own elderberry syrup recipe. After a few batches, here’s the one we like best. It’s a riff on the one from Real Food RN. The homemade elderberry syrup takes a few hours, start to finish, so I suggest making this a weekend project.

Ingredients for Elderberry Syrup

• 2/3 cup dried elderberries (I buy thesea package lasts ages)
• 3 1/2 cups of water
• 2-in. nub of fresh gingerroot, roughly chopped
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 1/2 tsp. whole cloves
• Rind of one orange
• 1 cup raw honey

Instructions for Making Elderberry Syrup

Step 1: Cook the elderberry mixture

Add all ingredients except honey to a medium saucepan. Bring it to a boil on high heat. Once it starts to boil, reduce the burner to medium-high. Let the elderberry mixture simmer for 45-60 minutes until the liquid is reduced by half.

Editor’s tips: Cooking honey reduces its medicinal benefits, so dont do it for this elderberry syrup recipe! And don’t worry if there are a few stems among the dried elderberries. You’ll strain them all out at the end.

Step 2: Let it cool

Remove from heat and let cool for about 30 minutes. Pour the mixture over a mesh strainer, into a glass measuring cup. Let the mixture cool until it is lukewarm. (You can toss out the elderberries and spicestheir work here is done.)

Step 3: Finish the elderberry syrup recipe

Add honey and stir until its well incorporated. Behold, your own homemade elderberry syrup! Then pour the contents into jars or bottles and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.

Editor’s tip: We pour our honey straight into the measuring cup. It sinks to the bottom, so we can see how much weve added.

My Takeaways on Homemade Elderberry Syrup

Now, when cool weather rolls around, my son and I take “Immunity Booster” every morninga teaspoon for him, a tablespoon for me. If we’re actively battling illness, we have it two or three times a day.

This elderberry syrup recipe tastes like what you’d expect: a sweetly spiced berry syrup. I’m tempted to try it over homemade ice cream or in an Italian soda! My son likes the flavor, too. It isn’t too strong for his toddler tastes.

Elderberry Syrup Benefits

The fruit of the Sambucus nigra plant, elderberries are high in vitamins A and C and anthocyanins (antioxidants that give the berries their bluish-purple hue), among other nutritional goodies. It turns out that our ancestors discovered their medicinal value long ago, and like a lot of other long-loved natural remedieshello, turmericelderberries are bursting into the mainstream. In fact, elderberry syrup has been scientifically shown to reduce the duration of influenza by as many as four days. Thanks to this and other studies, many healthcare professionals are calling for additional research on this natural cold and flu remedy.

While there isn’t yet a ton ofscientific research on elderberry syrup, I decided thatfor my sleepless familyit was worth a shot. If you’re considering trying an elderberry syrup recipe, too, check in with your healthcare professional first. (Hey, I’m an editor, not a doctor.)

I have to say, my son and I have felt healthier in the two years that we’ve made it. Despite the lack of scientific backing, we’ll keep up our cold-season traditioneven if the only real benefit of making elderberry syrup is the together time I get with my kiddo.

More Elderberry Recipes

• Elderberry Blossom Tea
• Rhubarb Elderberry Crisp

Here's What to Eat When You Have a Cold

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Ultimate Chicken Noodle SoupNutrition Facts1-1/3 cups: 239 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 1176mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 18g protein.You know that chicken soup is good for the soul, but it's also one of those foods that are good to eat when you have a cold. The medicinal benefits from the blend of celery, carrots and onions in a chicken broth can't be beat. If you want to reduce the sodium in this recipe, opt for a low-sodium chicken broth and add less salt into the pot as you cook. Find out how much protein is there in the chicken.Go to Recipe

Garlic Tortellini Soup

Nutrition Facts
1 cup: 189 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 1074mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 11g protein.

Warm and comforting, this soup offers a powerhouse of aromatic cold-fighting goodness with garlic as well as vitamin C-rich spinach and tomatoes. Simple to make and even easier to eat when you have a cold, this soup is a soothing weeknight meal with a piece of crusty bread or fluffy dinner rolls.

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Roasted Garlic Butternut Soup

Nutrition Facts
1 cup soup with 1 tablespoon blue cheese: 144 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 340mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 5g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.

This hearty puree of garlicky sweet potatoes and butternut squash is a soothing anti-inflammatory blend of vitamins A and C as well as hydrating water and broth. It's easy to whip up this soup by roasting the veggies ahead of time and blending together later.

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Slow & Easy Minestrone

Nutrition Facts
1-1/2 cups: 154 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1002mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 9g fiber), 7g protein.

Full of hydrating vegetables loaded with plant compounds and vitamins, this sick day soup couldn't be easier. All you need to do is set it and forget it in the slow cooker. Cook it while you nap and wake up to nourishing food to eat when you have a cold.

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Citrus Melon Mingle

Nutrition Facts
3/4 cup: 125 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 11mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (25g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fruit.

Bright and fresh, this fruit salad is the perfect food to eat when you have a cold. Packed with immune supporting vitamin C from the oranges, melon and grapefruit, as well as hints of fresh ginger to ease digestion, this salad is a simple healing dish to power your total body wellness.

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Carrot Soup with Orange & Tarragon

Nutrition Facts
1 cup: 117 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 823mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 4g fiber), 4g protein.

Creamy and nourishing, this soup is super simple and packed with vital antioxidants. Plus, the recipe calls for a hint of tarragon, an herb that contains manganese. This mineral can help decrease damaging stress to your cells.

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Rosemary Roasted Baby Carrots

Nutrition Facts
3/4 cup: 82 calories, 4g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 238mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1/2 fat.

Tossed with olive oil, rosemary, cumin and black pepper, these carotenoid-rich carrots are loaded with intense flavor. The best part is you don't have to tend to them as they roast in the oven. Simply set a timer and rest.

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Roasted Pumpkin and Brussels Sprouts

Nutrition Facts
3/4 cup: 152 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 255mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 starch.

Try this savory and colorful immune-supporting combo of pumpkin and Brussels sprouts. The garlic, olive oil and balsamic vinegar amp up the feel-good flavors in this dish, but you can add extra sweetness with dried cranberries. Bonus, dried cranberries are also an excellent source of antioxidants too.

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Cumin-Roasted Carrots

Nutrition Facts
1 serving: 86 calories, 4g fat (3g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 277mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.

There's nothing like warm spices to make you feel better when you have a cold. Try these cumin, coriander and garlic dressed carrots to excite your senses and soothe your breathing passages. Toast the aromatic spices in a skillet to enhance the overall flavor experience.

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Garlic-Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Mustard Sauce

Nutrition Facts
3/4 cup: 167 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 241mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 4g protein.

There are many health benefits of Brussels sprouts, and adding them to your menu during a sick week can help your body get up to speed more quickly. The carmelized flavor that results from roasting along with the Dijon mustard for dipping will put a pep in your step and immune system.

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Warm Tasty Greens with Garlic

Nutrition Facts
2/3 cup: 137 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 216mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 2 fat.

Kale is packed with vitamins A and C, which are two powerful nutrients in decreasing the severity of the common cold. If you'd rather not boil the kale in this recipe, you can saute it with plenty of olive oil. Sauteeing can also help keep some of the crisp structure of this leafy green vegetable.

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Fennel Carrot Soup

Nutrition Facts
1 cup: 117 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 989mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1 starch.

This blend of plant foods from sweet potatoes, apples, carrots and fennel is a powerhouse in a bowl. Plus, it's seasoned with curry powder, an anti-inflammatory spice blend that can soothe you when you're fighting a cold.

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Pumpkin & Cauliflower Garlic Mash

Nutrition Facts
2/3 cup: 87 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 482mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.

Garlic, pumpkin and cauliflower, oh my! This mash-up is perfect for curing whatever ails you. Tasty as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish, this vibrantly colored puree offers the best defense when you most need it.

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Chicken & Garlic with Fresh Herbs

Nutrition Facts
1 chicken thigh with 2 tablespoons cooking juices: 203 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 346mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 fat.

This one-pot meal couldn't be easier to make when you're having a sick day. Adding high quality protein to your diet gives your muscles the energy you need to get through the day. Plus, the aromatic garlic, rosemary and thyme enhances the flavor and immune-boosting impact of this cozy dish.

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Watercress & Orange Salad

Nutrition Facts
3/4 cup: 58 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 37mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.

Watercress is an excellent superfood green that is fun to use in place of other greens like spinach or kale. With a double punch of vitamin C from the peppery watercress and zesty oranges, this plant-powered dish can boost your immunity, as well as your spirits.

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Lemon Thyme Green Tea

Nutrition Facts
1 cup: 33 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 0 sodium, 9g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.

Sick days call for vitamin C, a water soluble vitamin that boosts immune health and can decrease the severity of a cold. This lemon tea is sure to soothe a sore throat and any aches and pains you have. Plus, it steeps in minutes, making it a simple elixir to help you feel better.

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Roasted Carrots & Fennel

Nutrition Facts
1 serving: 139 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 262mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 6g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1-1/2 fat.

Fennel, a licorice-flavored herb is jam-packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that boost cell health. In addition, you get a healthy dose of vitamin C, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and manganese, which all come in handy when fighting a cold.

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Herb Roasted Root Vegetables

Nutrition Facts
3/4 cup: 130 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 263mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.

You can't go wrong with fresh root vegetables to remedy a cold. This dish is loaded with immune-supportive vitamin C and potassium from the mix of white and sweet potatoes, carrots, parsnips and turnips. The high fiber also keeps the healthy bacteria teeming in your tummy.

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Orange Poppy Seed SaladIt's easy to throw together this salad when you have a cold, plus you know you're doing your body good. Packed with vitamin C from the oranges, fiber and omega-3 fats from walnuts and antioxidants from the pomegranate seeds, your immune system will get the nutritional support it desperately needs. If you make the dressing with raw apple cider vinegar, you'll get an added probiotic boost too!

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Fresh Green Beans & Garlic

Nutrition Facts
1 serving: 91 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 245mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.

If you notice digestive issues when you have a cold, it could be because of the stress on the cells in your body. To promote healthy cell turnover and to give your body the immune support it requires to heal, try this green bean dish. It's also rich with garlic, which will give you a great antimicrobial boost.

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Hearty Meatless Minestrone

Nutrition Facts
1-1/2 cups: 191 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 664mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 7g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 vegetable, 1 starch, 1 fat.

There are lots of healthy vegetarian meals out there, and this meatless minestrone is one of our favorites. The plant-based soup offers your body a powerhouse of healing nutrients from the plant compounds in the vegetables and herbs. Plus, you'll have plenty to eat throughout the week, which means less cook time when you're sick!

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Simple Tomato Soup

Nutrition Facts
1 cup (calculated without cheese): 120 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 1270mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.

Who doesn't love tomato soup when you have a cold? This soup is loaded with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant packed into tomatoeswhich is especially high in cooked canned tomatoes. If you need a comfort food classic to pair with this tomato soup, try a gooey grilled cheese sandwich.

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Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

Nutrition Facts
1/2 cup: 74 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 428mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.

Cauliflower, the ultimate cruciferous veggie, is the star in this dish. It's one of those foods that are high in vitamin C, and it's also super simple to whip together on a sick day. To add more gut-friendly bacteria, use a dollop of plain yogurt instead of mayo.

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Warm Spiced Chai

Nutrition Facts
1 cup: 102 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 44mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.

If you're feeling too under the weather for food, sometimes just a comforting drink will help. This homemade chai tea is loaded with good-for-you aromatic spices, such as cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, star anise and cloves. Many of these spices have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help your body fend off common cold culprits.

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The post This Elderberry Syrup Recipe Is So Easy (and Delicious!) appeared first on Taste of Home.

But as much as we love a hot cuppa as soon as we roll out of bed, it turns out that might not be the best time to take advantage of all coffee has to offer. In fact, scientists have found that there’s a better time to get your morning caffeine fix.

The right time for your coffee fix

Turns out the best time to drink coffee might not be first thing in the morning, but an hour after you wake up. This is because in the hour after you wake up, your body’s production of cortisol is at one of its three daily peaks, according to researcherswho published a small but intriguing clinical study. We tend to think of cortisol as the “stress hormone” because it’s secreted in higher amounts when feeling strain or tension from circumstances we perceive as demanding and decreases when we eat chocolate. Here are some more health benefits of chocolate.

But another way of thinking of cortisol is as the “alertness hormone,” because the reason our bodies produce more cortisol when we’re under stress is that it increases alertness, which supports our “fight or flight” response when we’re faced with stressful situations.

Wondering about the caffeine content? Find out how much caffeine is in your coffee.

Why you should wait

Consuming caffeine while our bodies are already at peak cortisol-production teaches the body to produce less cortisol, according to chronopharmacologists who study the way drugs (such as caffeine) interact with our body’s natural biological rhythms.

Not only does this undermine the effect of the caffeine, it also works against cortisol’s alertness effect. Perhaps even worse, it may contribute to developing a tolerance for coffee (meaning that it takes more and more just to get to the same placeyikes)!

So to get the biggest jolt from your morning coffee, try to wait an hour after waking to brew that first cup. And when you’re looking to follow up with another caffeine fix, try to do it outside the other peak cortisol production timestypically between noon and 1:00 p.m. and between 5:50 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. This will definitely help you kick any of those afternoon lull feelings and will power you into a productive evening.

The post This Is the Best Time to Drink Coffee, Scientists Say appeared first on Taste of Home.

Banana Chips

Spending the night before school starts googling things like “healthy breakfast ideas” and “what are healthy snacks for kids at school?” can be exhausting. Keep meal planning simple by upgrading your child’s favorite snacks. If she loves chips, give her that crunch with a pack of potassium with banana chips. Grab this variety pack ($20) for easy snacking on-the-go.

The post 15 Healthy Snack Ideas for Kids appeared first on Taste of Home.

Eggs

If you’ve ever heard that eating a big breakfast is good for a hangover, there’s a valid reasonespecially if that breakfast contains eggs. The amino acids in eggs help your body create glutathione, an antioxidant that is naturally depleted by alcohol consumption. No wonder so many of ourhangover-busting breakfast sandwich recipesare made with an egg!

The post The Best Hangover Food to Help You Feel Better Fast appeared first on Taste of Home.

The study, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, analyzed the effects of red meat, white meat and plant-based protein sources on cholesterol levels. Healthy adults between the ages of 21 and 65 were assigned to groups in which they were allowed to red meat, white meat and plant-based protein, each for a four-week period. The order of the proteins was random for each group. The results surprised the researchers, they said in a press release.

“When we planned this study, we expected red meat to have a more adverse effect on blood cholesterol levels than white meat, but we were surprised that this was not the casetheir effects on cholesterol are identical when saturated fat levels are equivalent,” said Ronald Krauss, MD, study author and director of atherosclerosis research at the Children’s Hospital Oakland Research Institute.

According to the study, both red and white meat raised levels of LDL (or bad) cholesterol in the participants. This was true for participants eating white meat, regardless of other types of saturated fats in their diets. The researchers found that plant-based proteins like beans and legumes are by far the healthiest options for blood cholesterol. Incorporating these 12 foods that help lower cholesterol naturally is a great place to start.

The study authors concluded that replacing red and white meat with plant-based proteins would be beneficial for those focused on lowering their cholesterol. And while you’re at it, make sure to weave these heart-healthy foods into your diet. Overall though, white meat is still a better option than red. “Our results indicate that current advice to restrict red meat and not white meat should not be based only on their effects on blood cholesterol,” Dr. Krauss said in a press release. “Indeed, other effects of red meat consumption could contribute to heart disease, and these effects should be explored in more detail in an effort to improve health.”

These Chicken Recipes Are All Kinds of Healthy

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Slow-Cooker Country Captain ChickenLegend has it that the recipe for country captain chicken was brought to Georgia in the early 1800s by a British sea captain. Although it's traditional to serve this over rice, it's also delicious with noodles or mashed potatoes. Suzanne Banfield, Basking Ridge, New JerseyGo to Recipe

Coconut Curry ChickenMy husband and I love this yummy dish! Its a breeze to prepare in the slow cooker, and it tastes just like a meal youd have at your favorite Indian or Thai restaurant. Andi Kauffman, Beavercreek, Oregon

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Shredded Chicken GyrosOur family always has such a wonderful time at the annual Salt Lake City Greek Festival. One of my favorite parts is all the awesome food. This meal is a good way to mix up our menu, and my kids are big fans. Camille Beckstrand, Layton, Utah

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Slow-Cooked Orange Chipotle ChickenEven though this chicken dish cooks for hours, the citrus keeps things fresh. We're big on spice, so sometimes I use two chipotle peppers. Deborah Biggs, Omaha, Nebraska. Looking for an easy-to-make recipe? Learn how to make a slow-cooker chicken casserole.

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Lemon Chicken & Rice SoupYears ago, I fell hard for a lemony Greek soup at Panera Bread. It was just a special back then, but I re-created it at home so we could eat it whenever a craving hit! Kristin Cherry, Bothell, Washington

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Slow-Cooked Greek Chicken DinnerI got this recipe from my sister and my family really likes it a lot. It makes the house smell so good! The amount of garlic might seem high, but it's just right. You get every bit of the flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. Terri Christensen, Montague, Michigan

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Southwestern Chicken & Lima Bean StewI love to have my daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren over for this supper. They make me so happy with their compliments or just by going to fill up their bowls again. It's a good-for-you hit. Pam Corder, Monroe, Louisiana

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Spicy Chicken and RiceAs a working mom with two kids, I have little time to prepare something hearty during the week. This recipe is easily tossed together in the morning and fabulous to come home to at night. Both of my picky eaters love it! Jessica Costello, Westminster, Massachusetts

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French Lentil and Carrot SoupIts crazy how just a few ingredients can make such a difference. Using finely chopped rotisserie chicken in this recipe makes it perfect for a busy weeknight meal, but you can leave the chicken out if you prefer. Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia

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Caribbean Curried ChickenHaving grown up in the Virgin Islands, I've eaten my fair share of authentic curried chicken. This recipe hits the mark with big, bold flavors. It's delicious served over rice. Sharon Gibson, Hendersonville, North Carolina

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Spicy Lime ChickenI've been turning this spicy lime chicken into tacos for years, but it was my son Austin who put it on cooked rice with all his favorite taco toppings. A family favorite was created out of leftovers! Christine Hair, Odessa, Florida

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Asian WrapsThis recipe is just like any other Asian wrap but with more flavor, a healthy twist and the convenience of a slow cooker. Instead of ordering Chinese, try making these yourself. Melissa Hansen, Ellison Bay, Wisconsin

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Herbed Slow-Cooker ChickenI use my slow cooker to prepare these well-seasoned chicken breasts that cook up moist and tender. My daughter, who has two young sons to keep up with, shared this great recipe with me several years ago. I now rely on cooking chicken in a Crock Pot many days a week.Sundra Hauck, Bogalusa, Louisiana

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Autumn Apple ChickenI'd just been apple picking and wanted to bake something new with the bounty. I decided on apple chicken by throwing them in the slow cooker with some barbecue sauce. The dish fills my whole house with the most delicious smell. Caitlyn Hauser, Brookline, New Hampshire

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Chicken StewRely on this slow cooker stew on busy weekends when you'd rather not be in the kitchen. Chicken, vegetables and seasonings give this stew great flavor.

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Chicken with Sugar Pumpkins & ApricotsWhen we have family gatherings, we give the slow cooker kitchen duty. This yummy chicken with pumpkin and apricots has the warm flavors of Morocco. Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada

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Chicken Taco SaladTen minutes of prep are all you need to make this delicious chicken taco salad. The slow cooker does the rest of the work, creating a satisfying and easy-to-make meal even on the busiest of weeknights.

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Slow-Cooker Chicken Enchilada Stuffed PeppersUse up leftovers and clean out the fridge by making these super simple and tasty stuffed peppers! This is an ideal weekend meal that you can put together quickly and let cook while you run errands. Katie Jasiewicz, Belle Isle, Florida. Hungry for more? Learn how to make slow-cooker chicken and rice.

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Ginger Chicken and Quinoa StewThis Asian-inspired one-pot chicken dinner is healthy and tasty. You can serve it hot, cold or at room temperature. &mash; Doris Kwon, Newport Coast, California

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So-Easy Coq au VinHeres my adaptation of the beloved French dish. I substituted boneless skinless chicken breasts for a lighter, easy coq au vin that still showcases the traditional and memorable taste. Sonya Labbe, Los Angeles, California

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Chunky Chicken CacciatoreThis healthy pasta recipe is so versatile! Look in your fridge for anything else you want to throw in, like red pepper, mushrooms, extra zucchiniyou name it. And if you're a vegetarian, go ahead and leave out the chicken. Stephanie Loaiza, Layton, Utah

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Apple Chicken StewMy husband and I enjoy visiting the apple orchards in nearby Nebraska City. We always make sure to buy extra cider to use in this sensational slow-cooked stew. Carol Mathias, Lincoln, Nebraska

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General Tso's StewI love Asian food and wanted a chili-like soup with the distinctive flavors of General Tsos chicken. The slow cooker makes this super easy, and you can use any meat you like. Its a great with turkey, ground meats or leftover pork. Lori McLain, Denton, Texas

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Chicken Merlot with MushroomsSlow cooked and savory, this dish is perfect for any night of the week, and is sure to become a staple in your home.Shelli McWilliam of Salem, Oregon

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Slow-Simmered Chicken with Raisins, Capers and BasilCapers, golden raisins and fresh basil give this dish a sweetly savory flavor. And what's better than that? The kids LOVE it. Nadine Mesch, Mount Healthy, Ohio

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Slow-Cooked Moroccan ChickenHerbs and spices really work their magic on plain chicken in this dish, and the dried fruit adds an exotic touch. Kathy Morgan, Ridgefield, Washington

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Chicken MoleIf youre not familiar with chicken mole (pronounced mo-LAY), dont be afraid of this versatile Mexican sauce. I love sharing this chicken mole recipe because its a great one to experiment with. Darlene Morris, Franklinton, Louisiana

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Pulled Chicken SandwichI was raised as a southern girl, with the love of barbecue built into my DNA. This slow-cooker recipe allows me to enjoy the flavors I grew up eating, while still following a healthy diet. Heidi Mulholland, Cumming, Georgia

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Saucy Indian-Style Chicken & VegetablesThis Indian-style dish seems to develop a devoted following. Prepared sauce makes it easy to bring the rich flavors of Indian cuisine to your family. Feel free to use more or less tikka masala sauce according to your personal taste. Erica Polly, Sun Prairie, Wisconsin

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Lemon Chicken with BasilNo matter when I eat it, this tangy slow-cooked chicken reminds me of summer meals with friends and family. Deborah Posey, Virginia Beach, Virginia

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Slow-Cooker Lemon ChickenA great way to get chicken breast at its most moist and tender is to let the slow cooker do the work. That leaves you with less than 10 minutes of prep for this aromatic slow-cooker lemon chicken recipe.

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Crockpot Chicken Noodle SoupNothing says "simple" like using a slow cooker to make Crockpot chicken noodle soup! Prep your ingredients, set the slow cooker and wait for magic to happen.

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Chicken Mushroom StewThe flavors blend beautifully in this pot of chicken, vegetables and herbs as it simmers slowly. Kenny Van Rheenen, Mendota, Illinois

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Harvesttime Chicken with CouscousEven on busy days, I can start this chicken in the slow cooker and still get to work on time. When I come home, I whip up a spinach salad and crescent rolls to round out the menu. Heidi Rudolph, Oregon, Illinois

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Slow-Cooker Chicken CacciatoreThis dump-and-go chicken cacciatore recipe is just the slow cooker meal you need for busy weeknights.

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Carolina-Style Vinegar BBQ ChickenI live in Georgia, but I appreciate the tangy, sweet and slightly spicy taste of Carolina vinegar chicken. I make my version in the slow cooker. After the tempting aroma fills the house, your family is sure to be at the dinner table on time! Ramona Parris, Canton, Georgia

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Meaty Slow-Cooked JambalayaThis recipe makes a big batch of delicious, meaty gumbo. Stash some away in the freezer for days you don't feel like cooking. Diane Smith, Pine Mountain, Georgia

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Red Pepper ChickenChicken breasts are treated to black beans, red peppers and juicy tomatoes in this Southwestern supper. We love it served with rice plumped up in chicken broth. Piper Spiwak, Vienna, Virginia

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North African Chicken and RiceI'm always looking to try recipes from different cultures, and this one is a huge favorite. We love the spice combinations. This cooks equally well in a slow cooker or a pressure cooker. Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas

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Cilantro & Lime Chicken with ScoopsI came up with this recipe when I was preparing for a large party and wanted a healthy Tex-Mex chicken to serve in tortilla chip cups. You can make this party dish ahead of time to free yourself for time-sensitive dishes. Serve it in tortilla cups or any other savory, crispy cup you like. Enjoy the leftovers over salad greens or wrapped up in tender tortillas for burritos. Lori Terry, Chicago, Illinois

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Slow-Cooked Curry ChickenOur three children love the spicy flavors found in this Crock-Pot chicken curry. Add more or less curry depending on your taste preferences. Helen Toulantis, Wantagh, New York

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Saucy Raspberry ChickenI first had this as a teenage babysitter, when the childrens mom prepared it for us to eat while she was out. The kids loved it, and so did I! Now I make it for my own kids.

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The post Can Eating Chicken Instead of Red Meat Help Lower Your Cholesterol Levels? appeared first on Taste of Home.

Take it straight

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) comes with a bit of a trade-off. On the one hand, it can do wonders for your body, like these 9 magical benefits. On the other, it doesn’t taste great. “Due to the [acidic] nature of ACV, you risk the ACV severely irritating and causing damage to the esophagus and stomach,” advises Matt Weik, BS, CSCS, owner of Weik Fitness, LLC. “Do yourself a huge favor and always dilute your ACV in a liquid.” Water is probably the way to dilute the apple cider vinegar. Not only will this protect your throat and stomach from the acid, but it will also make it far more palatable. Experts recommend using one part vinegar to ten parts water.

The post 8 Things You Shouldn’t Do While Taking Apple Cider Vinegar appeared first on Taste of Home.

Stouffers Fit Kitchen Bowls

These protein bowls are sure to satisfy everyone in your family. The beef and broccoli variety will trick ’em into thinking you ordered Chinese. Having trouble getting your family to eat their veggies? Make these zucchini desserts.

Purchase here.

The post 11 Healthy Frozen Foods for Kids appeared first on Taste of Home.

This is how some of the most popular doughnuts stack up:

Glazed

200-250 calories

If you want to walk the fine line between all-out indulgence and a simple treat, a glazed doughnut might be your best bet. Often relatively low in calories, this option can satisfy your craving with something classic and reliably delicious.

Keep in mind that calorie count varies by bakery. Krispy Kreme reports that its version clocks in around 190, while larger sizes can creep past 300.

See how doughnuts are made at Krispy Kreme.

Chocolate Iced/Frosted

250-300 calories

Who can say no to chocolate? If you prefer your doughnut topped with some of the good stuff, you’re looking at extra calories. For what it’s worth, some chocolate cake doughnuts have fewer calories than their iced cousins.

Once again, Krispy Kreme’s doughnuts had some of the lowest calorie counts, coming in at 240 calories, while Dunkin’ offers the same for 280 calories. Bonussprinkles only add about 10 calories to a donut at Dunkin’.

Old Fashioned

300 calories

Like the glazed, the OG doughnut can be lighter than some filled or topped with generous frosting. Homemade is always better, and you can minimize your calorie count by whipping up a batch of old fashioned cake doughnuts in your own kitchen.

Thetraditional cake doughnuts at Dunkin and Krispy Kreme both have about 290 calories. The Starbucks old-fashioned doughnut is more indulgent at 480 calories.

Jelly-Filled

300 calories

It shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise that adding powdered sugar and jelly will raise the calorie count on this popular doughnut (as compared to a glazed doughnut), but it’s still not as calorie-tastic as a bismark or a creme-filled, frosted long john.

Can’t give up the jelly habit? Make your own jelly-filled doughnuts at home to customize how much sugar and jam you’re adding.

More Doughnut Recipes for Homemade Happiness

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Apple Cider DoughnutsA batch of these apple cider doughnuts will have you feeling like it's peak fall season, no matter the time of year.

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If youre craving strawberry doughnuts, here is your guide to make some!

Banana Beignet BitesWhen I was a little girl, my grandmother took me aside one day and taught me how to make her famous banana beignets. Although we made them during the holidays, they're pretty fantastic any time of the year. Amy Downing, South Riding, Virginia

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Air-Fryer DoughnutsMy sons and I love doughnuts, but in the Florida heat, I rarely want to deep-fry them. I tried making this easy air-fryer doughnut recipe, and it turned out so well with no mess! Christine Hair, Odessa, Florida

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There's no better pastry to pair with coffee. Find the best types of doughnuts to make for breakfast or brunch.

Swedish DoughnutsOne day, my father got a hankering for doughnuts and asked me to make him some. I ended up trying these. Dadand everyone elseloved the results. They come out so golden and plump. Lisa Bates, Dunham, Quebec

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Drop DoughnutsRemember this recipe after your next holiday dinner. I use any leftover mashed potatoes to make these light and fluffy doughnuts. The dish was originally created by my neighbor's mother-in-law as a breakfast treat or a snack. Marilyn Kleinfall, Elk Grove Village, Illinois

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Berry-Filled DoughnutsFour ingredients are all you'll need for this sure-bet breakfast treat. Friends and family will never guess that refrigerated buttermilk biscuits are the base for these golden, jelly-filled doughnuts. Ginny Watson, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma

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Delicious Potato DoughnutsI first tried these tasty treats at my sister's house and thought they were the best I'd ever had. They're easy to make, and the fudge frosting tops them off well. When I make them for friends, the recipe is always requested. Pat Davis, Beulah, Michigan

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Glazed DoughnutsThe light coffee flavor in these tasty sugar-glazed doughnuts makes them a perfect start to the morning...on Christmas Day or any day. You'll find that the recipe is a delectable way to use up leftover potatoes. Pat Siebenaler, Random Lake, Wisconsin

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Want an easy fast-food doughnut option for Christmas day? Krispy Kreme Christmas doughnuts are a delicious go-to.

Jelly DoughnutsThere's no need to run to the bakery for delicious jelly doughnuts! These sweet treats are lighter than air. I've been fixing them for 25 years for my husband, our two daughters and their families. They disappear almost as fast as I make them. Kathy Westendorf, Westgate, Iowa

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If you want to make restaurant-style doughnuts, here's our favorite copycatKrispy Kreme doughnut recipe.

Almond Bear ClawsThis bear claw pastry recipe is absolutely melt-in-your-mouth delicious! It's impossible to resist the delicate dough, rich almond filling and pretty fanned tops sprinkled with sugar and almonds. I made yummy treats like this when I worked in a bakery years ago. Aneta Kish, La Crosse, Wisconsin

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BeignetsThese sweet French doughnuts, inspired by the ones found in Cafe du Monde in New Orleans, are square instead of round and have no hole in the middle. They're a traditional part of breakfast in New Orleans. Beth Dawson, Jackson, Louisiana

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 Looking for a fancy breakfast pastry? Learn how to make delicate, swirled French cruller doughnuts at home.

Glazed Doughnut HolesHere's a simple recipe to create a colorful and fun breakfastor snack! For the glaze, use any type of juice you like. Taste of Home Test Kitchen. Next, learn how to make a chocolate glaze for doughnuts.

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Gluten-Free Apple Cider DoughnutsI wanted to make a gluten-free apple cider doughnut that tasted so good, the fact that its gluten-free is beside the point! Kathryn Conrad, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Pumpkin Doughnut DropsI always have a few special treats handy when the grandchildren visit. These cake doughnuts are one of their favorite snacks. Beva Staum, Muscoda, Wisconsin

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Blue-Ribbon DoughnutsWhat could be more delicious than a warm homemade doughnut? I've been making these tasty treats for my children and grandchildren for many years. Kay McEwen, Sussex, New Brunswick

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Cider DoughnutsHere on our 1,250-acre farm, we usually have a quick breakfast on the go. So I often keep a batch of these light and moist doughnuts on hand. They disappear quickly because no one can eat just one! Suzanne Christensen, Defiance, Iowa

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Maple-Bacon Doughnut BitesWhile these delicious bite-size treats are ready in minutes, theyll disappear in a flash. And dont relegate the deep-fried goodness to the breakfast nookIve never had anyone turn these down no matter the time of day. Chelsea Turner, Lake Elsinore, CA

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The post Here’s How Many Calories Are in Your Favorite Doughnuts appeared first on Taste of Home.

Both types of upset stomach can feel similar, but they have a few key differences to help you know what is going on, and more importantly, when you’re going to get some relief.

Food poisoning or stomach bug?

Food poisoning is caused by eating some kind of contaminated food. According to the CDC, more than 48 million Americans experience foodborne illness every year. It could be caused by eating raw foods or contaminated chicken, meat, fruits and vegetables. The symptoms of food poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea and a high fever, and it comes on quickly. The most common foodborne illnesses include Salmonella, Clostridium perfringens and Campylobacter.

On the other hand, a stomach bug is caused by coming in contact with a virus like adenovirus or norovirus. Like food poisoning, a stomach bug can cause vomiting and diarrhea. You can catch the “stomach flu” by being in close contact with someone who has it or by touching a contaminated surface like a doorknob or phone.

It’s probably food poisoning if…

• Your symptoms came on suddenly. Food poisoning can happen quickly, and it’s not uncommon to go from feeling normal one minute to running to the bathroom the next.

• You have a high fever. The contaminated food can cause flu-like symptoms including a high fever, body aches and chills.

• It’s fast and furious. Food poisoning is truly miserable, but at least it’s quick. It usually takes your body about 24 to 48 hours to rid itself of the illness.

See the other signs of food poisoning everyone should know.

It’s probably a stomach bug if…

• Your symptoms started gradually. After you’ve been exposed to a stomach virus, symptoms usually show up about 12 to 48 hours later. They could start out as mild nausea or just feeling “off” before they really get going.

• You’re experiencing other symptoms like a headache and dry mouth. A stomach virus can wreak havoc on your entire body, so be on the lookout for additional symptoms.

• It hangs on for a few days. Most stomach bugs last two to five days, so break out the Netflix, because you may be on the couch for a while. (If you can handle looking at food, we recommend these shows.)

How to start feeling better

Because both food poisoning and stomach bugs need to run their course, there is no cure. Your best strategy is to get plenty of rest and replace fluids as you can. If you notice yourself becoming dehydrated from severe diarrhea or vomiting, try Pedialyte. Most of us reach for sports drinks when we’re sick, but they’re too high in sugar and could leave you feeling worse. If you find that you simply cannot keep any fluids down, it’s time to call your doctor.

Remember, your symptoms should start getting better soon. Grab your TV remote and a cup of tea; this too shall pass.

The Best Foods to Eat When You're Not Feeling Well

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Ultimate Chicken Noodle SoupNutrition Facts1-1/3 cups: 239 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 1176mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 18g protein.You know that chicken soup is good for the soul, but it's also one of those foods that are good to eat when you have a cold. The medicinal benefits from the blend of celery, carrots and onions in a chicken broth can't be beat. If you want to reduce the sodium in this recipe, opt for a low-sodium chicken broth and add less salt into the pot as you cook. Find out how much protein is there in the chicken.Go to Recipe

Garlic Tortellini Soup

Nutrition Facts
1 cup: 189 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 1074mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 11g protein.

Warm and comforting, this soup offers a powerhouse of aromatic cold-fighting goodness with garlic as well as vitamin C-rich spinach and tomatoes. Simple to make and even easier to eat when you have a cold, this soup is a soothing weeknight meal with a piece of crusty bread or fluffy dinner rolls.

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Roasted Garlic Butternut Soup

Nutrition Facts
1 cup soup with 1 tablespoon blue cheese: 144 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 340mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 5g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.

This hearty puree of garlicky sweet potatoes and butternut squash is a soothing anti-inflammatory blend of vitamins A and C as well as hydrating water and broth. It's easy to whip up this soup by roasting the veggies ahead of time and blending together later.

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Slow & Easy Minestrone

Nutrition Facts
1-1/2 cups: 154 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1002mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 9g fiber), 7g protein.

Full of hydrating vegetables loaded with plant compounds and vitamins, this sick day soup couldn't be easier. All you need to do is set it and forget it in the slow cooker. Cook it while you nap and wake up to nourishing food to eat when you have a cold.

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Citrus Melon Mingle

Nutrition Facts
3/4 cup: 125 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 11mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (25g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fruit.

Bright and fresh, this fruit salad is the perfect food to eat when you have a cold. Packed with immune supporting vitamin C from the oranges, melon and grapefruit, as well as hints of fresh ginger to ease digestion, this salad is a simple healing dish to power your total body wellness.

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Carrot Soup with Orange & Tarragon

Nutrition Facts
1 cup: 117 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 823mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 4g fiber), 4g protein.

Creamy and nourishing, this soup is super simple and packed with vital antioxidants. Plus, the recipe calls for a hint of tarragon, an herb that contains manganese. This mineral can help decrease damaging stress to your cells.

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Rosemary Roasted Baby Carrots

Nutrition Facts
3/4 cup: 82 calories, 4g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 238mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1/2 fat.

Tossed with olive oil, rosemary, cumin and black pepper, these carotenoid-rich carrots are loaded with intense flavor. The best part is you don't have to tend to them as they roast in the oven. Simply set a timer and rest.

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Roasted Pumpkin and Brussels Sprouts

Nutrition Facts
3/4 cup: 152 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 255mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 starch.

Try this savory and colorful immune-supporting combo of pumpkin and Brussels sprouts. The garlic, olive oil and balsamic vinegar amp up the feel-good flavors in this dish, but you can add extra sweetness with dried cranberries. Bonus, dried cranberries are also an excellent source of antioxidants too.

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Cumin-Roasted Carrots

Nutrition Facts
1 serving: 86 calories, 4g fat (3g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 277mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.

There's nothing like warm spices to make you feel better when you have a cold. Try these cumin, coriander and garlic dressed carrots to excite your senses and soothe your breathing passages. Toast the aromatic spices in a skillet to enhance the overall flavor experience.

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Garlic-Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Mustard Sauce

Nutrition Facts
3/4 cup: 167 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 241mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 4g protein.

There are many health benefits of Brussels sprouts, and adding them to your menu during a sick week can help your body get up to speed more quickly. The carmelized flavor that results from roasting along with the Dijon mustard for dipping will put a pep in your step and immune system.

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Warm Tasty Greens with Garlic

Nutrition Facts
2/3 cup: 137 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 216mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 2 fat.

Kale is packed with vitamins A and C, which are two powerful nutrients in decreasing the severity of the common cold. If you'd rather not boil the kale in this recipe, you can saute it with plenty of olive oil. Sauteeing can also help keep some of the crisp structure of this leafy green vegetable.

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Fennel Carrot Soup

Nutrition Facts
1 cup: 117 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 989mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1 starch.

This blend of plant foods from sweet potatoes, apples, carrots and fennel is a powerhouse in a bowl. Plus, it's seasoned with curry powder, an anti-inflammatory spice blend that can soothe you when you're fighting a cold.

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Pumpkin & Cauliflower Garlic Mash

Nutrition Facts
2/3 cup: 87 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 482mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.

Garlic, pumpkin and cauliflower, oh my! This mash-up is perfect for curing whatever ails you. Tasty as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish, this vibrantly colored puree offers the best defense when you most need it.

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Chicken & Garlic with Fresh Herbs

Nutrition Facts
1 chicken thigh with 2 tablespoons cooking juices: 203 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 346mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 fat.

This one-pot meal couldn't be easier to make when you're having a sick day. Adding high quality protein to your diet gives your muscles the energy you need to get through the day. Plus, the aromatic garlic, rosemary and thyme enhances the flavor and immune-boosting impact of this cozy dish.

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Watercress & Orange Salad

Nutrition Facts
3/4 cup: 58 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 37mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.

Watercress is an excellent superfood green that is fun to use in place of other greens like spinach or kale. With a double punch of vitamin C from the peppery watercress and zesty oranges, this plant-powered dish can boost your immunity, as well as your spirits.

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Lemon Thyme Green Tea

Nutrition Facts
1 cup: 33 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 0 sodium, 9g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.

Sick days call for vitamin C, a water soluble vitamin that boosts immune health and can decrease the severity of a cold. This lemon tea is sure to soothe a sore throat and any aches and pains you have. Plus, it steeps in minutes, making it a simple elixir to help you feel better.

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Roasted Carrots & Fennel

Nutrition Facts
1 serving: 139 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 262mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 6g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1-1/2 fat.

Fennel, a licorice-flavored herb is jam-packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that boost cell health. In addition, you get a healthy dose of vitamin C, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and manganese, which all come in handy when fighting a cold.

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Herb Roasted Root Vegetables

Nutrition Facts
3/4 cup: 130 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 263mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.

You can't go wrong with fresh root vegetables to remedy a cold. This dish is loaded with immune-supportive vitamin C and potassium from the mix of white and sweet potatoes, carrots, parsnips and turnips. The high fiber also keeps the healthy bacteria teeming in your tummy.

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Orange Poppy Seed SaladIt's easy to throw together this salad when you have a cold, plus you know you're doing your body good. Packed with vitamin C from the oranges, fiber and omega-3 fats from walnuts and antioxidants from the pomegranate seeds, your immune system will get the nutritional support it desperately needs. If you make the dressing with raw apple cider vinegar, you'll get an added probiotic boost too!

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Fresh Green Beans & Garlic

Nutrition Facts
1 serving: 91 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 245mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.

If you notice digestive issues when you have a cold, it could be because of the stress on the cells in your body. To promote healthy cell turnover and to give your body the immune support it requires to heal, try this green bean dish. It's also rich with garlic, which will give you a great antimicrobial boost.

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Hearty Meatless Minestrone

Nutrition Facts
1-1/2 cups: 191 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 664mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 7g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 vegetable, 1 starch, 1 fat.

There are lots of healthy vegetarian meals out there, and this meatless minestrone is one of our favorites. The plant-based soup offers your body a powerhouse of healing nutrients from the plant compounds in the vegetables and herbs. Plus, you'll have plenty to eat throughout the week, which means less cook time when you're sick!

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Simple Tomato Soup

Nutrition Facts
1 cup (calculated without cheese): 120 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 1270mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.

Who doesn't love tomato soup when you have a cold? This soup is loaded with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant packed into tomatoeswhich is especially high in cooked canned tomatoes. If you need a comfort food classic to pair with this tomato soup, try a gooey grilled cheese sandwich.

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Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

Nutrition Facts
1/2 cup: 74 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 428mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.

Cauliflower, the ultimate cruciferous veggie, is the star in this dish. It's one of those foods that are high in vitamin C, and it's also super simple to whip together on a sick day. To add more gut-friendly bacteria, use a dollop of plain yogurt instead of mayo.

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Warm Spiced Chai

Nutrition Facts
1 cup: 102 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 44mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.

If you're feeling too under the weather for food, sometimes just a comforting drink will help. This homemade chai tea is loaded with good-for-you aromatic spices, such as cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, star anise and cloves. Many of these spices have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help your body fend off common cold culprits.

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The post How to Tell the Difference Between Food Poisoning and a Stomach Bug appeared first on Taste of Home.

Helps Fight Allergies: Pineapple

Pineapple is loaded with vitamins and is an allergy-fighting powerhouse. Its secret weapon against pollen is the enzyme bromelain. Bromelain helps to calm down the irritation and swelling that causes itchy eyes and a runny nose. Bromelain can also help with coughing and chest tightness for those with asthma. Learn 10 more health benefits of pineapple.

The post 8 Foods That Help With Seasonal Allergies—and 4 That Make Them Worse appeared first on Taste of Home.