Recipes

cabbage
Recipes

Three Healthy Cabbage Recipes

Incorporating cabbage into your diet can provide numerous health benefits. Here are three healthy cabbage recipes to try.

Paczki-inspired pancake with raspberries
Recipes

Paczki-Inspired Pancakes

Skip the line for Paczkis this year, head out to the grocery store, and come home and make these Swedish-style pancakes with a raspberry sauce instead.

Recipes

Valentine’s Day Dinner Recipes for Dummies

Putting together a three-course meal for a special someone on Valentine's Day can feel overwhelming. The good news is it doesn’t have to be complicated. Check out this easy three-course line-up with health-forward dishes.

Recipes

Air Fried Breaded Chicken Parmesan

Chicken parmesan is an Italian-American staple and an ultimate comfort food. If you’re looking for a lighter option to the deep-fried dish, this air fried version skips the heavy fat and crisps up similar to the real deal.

Recipes

Bruschetta with Garlic Baguette Slices

While bruschetta involves simple ingredients and a few simple steps, this appetizer is full of flavor. The bruschetta topping is prepared a traditional Italian way, leaning on the simplicity of the herbs and tomatoes to deliver mouthwatering bites.

Recipes

Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Chocolate-covered fruit is a delectable treat that leans on fruit for natural sweetness. To get a perfectly coated strawberry, it’s important to first wash and dry the fruit to allow for a stable surface for the chocolate to adhere to.

Recipes

3 Easy Appetizers for the Big Game

Watching a football game makes it easy to mindlessly snack and forget about portions. It’s a good idea to mix in some lighter appetizers for nutrients and balance. Here are three easy appetizers to enjoy during the next big game.

Recipes

Healthy Nacho Cheese Sauce for Loaded Nachos

This healthy nacho cheese sauce recipe features a cottage cheese-based cheese sauce that packs in filling protein and gut-healthy probiotics while reducing the overall saturated fat of the dish. Use it for loaded nachos during the big game.

Recipes

Baked Mozzarella Sticks

These mozzarella sticks are tossed in flour, covered with beaten egg and then drenched with an Italian herb-seasoned parmesan cheese panko breading. Rather than the traditional deep-frying, these are lightly coated in olive oil then baked until crispy.

Recipes

Sesame Seared Green Beans

These sesame seared green beans are bursting with flavor and have the perfect level of crunch. In this recipe, the green beans are seared first to ensure the other ingredients don’t burn.

Recipes

Healthy Paczki Recipe: Battered Banana Paczki Bites

In this healthier paczki recipe, banana slices are dipped in a fluffy batter, seared to golden perfection, then served on a platter with drizzles of raspberry preserves and a dusting of powdered sugar. Enjoy as breakfast or dessert.

Recipes

30+ Healthier Big Game Recipes to Try

Here are some healthier big game recipes that will score big with your guests. We’ve got you covered with these nutrient-rich options, many of which are plant-forward, packed with antioxidants and high in protein.

Recipes

2 Healthy Winter Soup Recipes to Cozy Up With

There's nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of soup to bring comfort and nourishment during cozy season. Creating your own soups at home provides a canvas for creativity and ensures control over the ingredients.

Recipes

Roasted Garlic, Pepper and Tomato Tortellini Soup

The bell peppers, tomatoes and garlic that provide a base for this soup are first roasted, then blended to creamy perfection. Roasting the vegetables allow complex flavors to develop and brings sweetness out of the garlic. The soup base serves as a nutritious base for the Italian tortellini.

Recipes

Creamy Curry and Veggie Soup

This flavorful creamy curry and veggie soup packs in a healthy dose of nutrients from onions, garlic, mushrooms and tomatoes. The curry paste is lightly sauteed to bring out the variety of flavors, then combined with creamy coconut milk.

Recipes

Dry January Mocktails and DIY Garnishes

Ready to take part in Dry January? Here are some recipes for mocktails and DIY garnishes.

Recipes

Spicy Pineapple Mocktail

This spicy tropical drink offers a balance of sweet and spicy with a kick of acid. Because pineapple juice is naturally sweet, add honey as needed to suit your sweetness preference.

Mocktails
Recipes

9 Easy Mocktail Recipes to Try

Mocktails are getting more popular by the month. Good ones are fun, flavorful, refreshing, and they don't leave you hungover the next day. Keep these easy-to-make recipes on your radar.

Recipes

Cranberry Mule Mocktail with Dried Citrus Garnish

This cozy drink features a balance of tart and sweet, with a hint of gingery spice. Allow frozen cranberries to double as ice and decorate with a dried citrus wheel.

Recipes

Sparkling Pear Mocktail with Rosemary Sprig

The rosemary sprig brings woodsy and peppery notes to this otherwise refreshing drink – making it perfect for the holidays.

Recipes

Enjoy These Festive - and Healthier – Holiday Mocktails

Mocktails are a good alternative to add balance to a holiday event. Here are recipes for two healthier versions of the popular drinks.

Recipes

Cucumber Shrimp Bites

These crunchy, sweet and savory delights offer healthy fats from the avocado and protein from the shrimp – adding a satisfying element.

Recipes

Holiday Hummus Wreath

This hummus dip is filled with healthy fats and protein to add a satisfying element.

Recipes

Pear Salad Skewers

Skewers are an easy crowd-pleaser – convenient to grab and eat.

Recipes

Chocolate-dipped Shortbread Cookies with Crushed Candy Canes

This recipe for Chocolate-dipped Shortbread Cookies with Crushed Candy Canes is free of milk, eggs, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soy and sesame.

Recipes

Cardamom Chocolate Chip Cookies

This recipe for Cardamom Chocolate Chip Cookies that are free of milk, eggs, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soy and sesame.

Recipes

Allergy-friendly Holiday Cookie Recipes

For those with food allergies, baking holiday cookies can pose a challenge. Here are two allergy-friendly holiday cookie recipes.

Holiday cookies
Recipes

Healthier Holiday Desserts: 2 Recipes to Try

The holidays are hectic enough. Minimize your time spent in the kitchen by trying these recipes for a four-ingredient peanut butter cookie and dairy-free pie crust.

Recipes

10 Ways to Make Thanksgiving Side Dishes More Nutritious

It’s time to push aside the gravy boats and heavy sauces for healthier holiday options.

Recipes

Shaved Brussels Sprouts and Apple Salad

The bitterness of the Brussels sprouts and the sweetness of the apple perfectly marry in this fall salad recipe.

Recipes

Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Lemon Herb Ranch Drizzle

Unlike many Thanksgiving dishes with sweet potatoes, this recipe leans on the natural sweetness of the fall crop by omitting excess added sugar.

Recipes

3 Healthy and Seasonal Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Fiber-rich root vegetables and crucifers stretch their seasonality into November, making them favorites around the Thanksgiving table. Check out these three recipes.

Recipes

Superfoods for Seniors and a Delicious Smoothie Recipe

Our bodies’ needs change as we age. Seniors need to pay special attention to a variety of nutrients. Here are some tips for seniors to stay healthy and thrive.

Jarcuterie
Recipes

“Jarcuterie” and Individual Serving Ideas at Your Next Tailgate 

Events like tailgating look different during the ongoing pandemic. Individual servings are a great way to reduce germs when groups are dining together.

Recipes

How to Make a Mirepoix

Mirepoix may sound fancy, but it’s really just a simple flavor base for dishes like soups and sauces made from onions, celery and carrots. A mirepoix starts with finely dicing your veggies, the ratio being two parts onion to one part carrot and one part celery.

Recipes

3 Spooky and Nutritious Halloween Snacks

For those looking for Halloween food options, try one of these three healthy food ideas to help take the focus away from candy.

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Recipes

How to Roast Pumpkin Seeds (Plus Two Tasty Variations)

Don't sleep on homemade roasted pumpkin seeds this fall! Here is a basic recipe for this crispy, crunchy and delicious snack, plus two fun variations.

Recipes

Cinnamon Apple Pie Overnight Oats

Fall in love with these easy, sweet overnight oats made with pure Michigan apples. Just combine ingredients at night and it’s ready for you in the morning.

Recipes

10 Edible Halloween Crafts to Make with Fruit

While it’s okay to enjoy hard-earned candy from trick-or-treating on Halloween, it’s nice to partake in activities to take the focus away from candy.

Recipes

Breakfast Hack: Premade Omelet

Life gets busy no matter who you are and for many – whipping up a wholesome breakfast is at the bottom of the priority list on hectic mornings. But making breakfast in advance can make the difference between a stressful and a seamless start to your day.

Recipes

3 Recipes to Take Advantage of Winter Squash

Winter squashes are versatile and can be used in savory soups, roasted as a side dish or incorporated into some desserts. Try these recipes.

Recipes

Roasted Butternut Squash Salad

This cozy fall salad is a satisfying side dish or star of the show if combined with protein. Butternut squash is roasted until tender and caramelized in heart-healthy olive oil, thyme and maple syrup for a hint of sweetness. It’s then tossed with a kale-based salad massaged in a maple thyme vinaigrette.

Recipes

The Secret to Cooking Delicious Eggs in the Microwave

Want a healthy start to your day but don’t have a lot of time? Check out these easy recipes for cooking eggs in a microwave for a protein-packed breakfast.

Recipes

No-Cook Tailgate Recipes to Make for Game Day

A delicious part of football season is the tradition of a tailgate spread on game day. We've got you covered with these recipes.

Recipes

Cilantro Lime Dressing

Cilantro lime dressing is a zesty and flavorful condiment that not only enhances the taste of your favorite dishes but also offers several health benefits.

Recipes

Mexican-Inspired Shrimp Bowl

One way to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month is by exploring the Hispanic nations’ cuisine. Here is a recipe to get started.

Recipes

How to Make a Pumpkin Spice Latte

Here’s a step-by-step process for making your own version of the autumn classic at home.

Recipes

Winter Holiday Simmer Pot

Don’t be surprised if you hear, “Is someone baking apple pie?” with this blend of simmer pot ingredients on the stove. 

Recipes

Fall Holiday Simmer Pot

  This delightful blend of colorful fruits, herbs and spices brings a scent of warmth to your home, whether you’re expecting company or spending a cozy day at home.  

Recipes

Simmer Pot Recipes for a Fresh-Smelling Home

Simmer pot recipes are an easy, affordable and natural way to have your home smelling good. Check out our recipes.

Shanthi Appelo preparing three healthy apple recipes
Recipes

3 Healthy Apple Recipes

Apples are often referred to as nature's toothbrush and offer a plethora of health benefits. Here are three simple and healthy apple recipes to savor the goodness of this super fruit this fall.

Drizzled Apple “Donut” Snacks
Recipes

Drizzled Apple ‘Donut’ Snacks

This donut-shaped snack packs in both flavor and health value. This easy-to-make recipe takes under 15 minutes: simply slice the apples, core them, and then drizzle and add toppings.

Fall Spiced Yogurt Dip with Apple Slices
Recipes

Fall Spiced Yogurt Dip with Apple Slices

The fall-spiced Greek yogurt provides a creamy source of protein, while the crisp apples add a fantastic source of fiber and contrast.

Apple Crumble For Two
Recipes

Apple Crumble For Two

When you find yourself with only one or two apples in your pantry, don't worry! This delicious apple crumble is made with just a few ingredients.

Recipes

Herb and Greek Yogurt Whipped Feta

This dip is inspired by Mediterranean cuisine and blends bold flavors with creamy textures.

Recipes

Classic Fresh Salsa

Not only is salsa delicious, but it's also a nutritious powerhouse, filled with vitamins and antioxidants from the fresh ingredients.

Recipes

10 Healthy and Fun Michigan-Inspired Snacks for Your Kids

Activities with children – whether playing in the backyard or exploring your community – are never complete without snack time. Here are some tasty, healthy snacks that will keep your little ones energized throughout the day.

Recipes

Baked Salmon Rice Cups

Transform this nutritional powerhouse salmon into a delightful school lunch option by creating baked rice cups.

Recipes

Mini Black Bean Quesadillas

This Tex-Mex dish is packed with plant-based protein from black beans.

Recipes

Healthy Out-of-the-lunch-box Ideas for Kids

Different food groups provide vital nutrients to fuel a child’s day. Here’s how to get at least three of the five groups into your child’s lunch.

Vegan Lemony Hummus Sandwich
Recipes

Vegan Lemony Hummus Sandwich

This vegan sandwich features creamy hummus, fresh lemon juice, roasted red pepper, oregano and peppery arugula.

Southeast Asian Mother Making Sandwich For Her Son Breakfast
Recipes

3 Actually Healthy Sandwich Ideas

Check out these healthy sandwich ideas that will elevate any lunch.

Salmon Burger with Lemon Dill Sauce Sandwich
Recipes

Salmon Burger with Lemon Dill Sauce Sandwich

The seared salmon patty is made with canned salmon, an egg to bind, panko breadcrumbs for texture and plenty of flavor.

Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Whipped Feta
Recipes

Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Whipped Feta

This recipe leans on grilled chicken, a protein superior to deli meats for a sandwich.

Peach Shaved Ice
Recipes

Peach Shaved Ice

This shaved frozen fruit treat relies on the natural sweetness of ripe seasonal peaches.

Peach Bruschetta
Recipes

Peach Bruschetta

This summery recipe combines the sweetness of ripe peaches with tomatoes and fragrant basil.

Grilled Peach Salad
Recipes

Grilled Peach Salad

Grilled peaches take this summer salad to another level.

Recipes

3 Unique Ways to Use Peaches

While peaches taste great on their own, they are also delicious when incorporated into both savory and sweet recipes.

Shark Week Snacks
Recipes

Shark Week-friendly TV Snacks

Enhance your Shark Week viewing routine with these nutritious themed snacks.

Roasted Tomato Ricotta Crostini
Recipes

3 Summer Recipes Featuring Juicy Cherry Tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes taste most sweet at their peak summer ripeness, so it’s best to use them at this stage in refreshing recipes.

Creamy Tomato Orzo
Recipes

Creamy Tomato Orzo

This one-pan recipe comes together in 30 minutes and is perfect for a summer weeknight.

Seared Crispy Halibut with Cherry Tomato Piccata
Recipes

Seared Crispy Halibut with Cherry Tomato Piccata

Elevate any summer evening with this refreshing dish. This recipe features lightly pan-seared halibut that has a crispy edge without frying.

Vegan cherry ice cream
Recipes

Michigan Cherry and Chocolate Vegan Ice Cream

Looking for a delicious way to cool down on a hot summer day? We’ve got you covered with this vegan ice cream recipe featuring Michigan cherries.

sliders
Recipes

Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Jicama Slaw

If you’re firing up the grill this Fourth of July, try these savory Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sliders with Jicama Slaw.

Roasted Tomato Ricotta Crostini
Recipes

Roasted Tomato Ricotta Crostini

In this summer favorite, sweet cherry tomatoes are roasted in olive oil, dry white wine, garlic and herbs.

Fourth of July
Recipes

4 Small Plates for the Fourth of July

If you are looking for food ideas for your Fourth of July celebration, we’ve got you covered – from grilled sliders to a refreshing dessert.

Watermelon Jalapeño Gazpacho Shooters
Recipes

Watermelon Jalapeño Gazpacho Shooters

Indulge in the ultimate summertime soup with this delectable gazpacho recipe.

picnic
Recipes

5 Healthy Picnic-friendly Foods

Check out Shanthi’s surprising must-haves for your best sunny day. Plus, some fun and healthy food options.

Roasted Zucchini Pasta
Recipes

Grilled Zucchini Salad with Bruschetta and Herbs

Grilling brings out the natural sweetness of zucchini, which goes great with cherry tomato bruschetta.

Hummus Dip with Summer Vegetables 
Recipes

Hummus Dip with Summer Vegetables

Enjoy the nutritious and flavorful chickpea spread, hummus, with a delicious vinaigrette-tossed seasonal vegetable medley on top.

Farmers Market
Recipes

Maximizing Farmers Market Finds with Seasonal Vegetable Recipes

If you’re looking for delicious meal ideas using the summer crops, check out these tried and true recipes.

taco
Recipes

Best of Shanthi’s Summer Recipes 

If you are looking for some menu inspiration, consider some of Shanthi's favorite summer recipes.

chimchurri
Recipes

Chili Lime Chimichurri

Chimichurri is a delicious blend of herbs, aromatics, olive oil and an acid that is very versatile in nature.

cucumber mint salad
Recipes

Cucumber Mint Feta Salad

This refreshing salad can be served as an appetizer or alongside grilled meats and vegetables.

Grilled Caprese Skewers
Recipes

Grilled Caprese Skewers – Makes 8 Skewers

These caprese skewers feature traditional flavors but take it to the next level on the grill.

skewers
Recipes

Healthy Grilling Recipes for Your Memorial Day Menu

Skewers are a great option to mix meats and veggies, and are easily customizable to an individual’s preference. Try one of these skewer pairings.

Shawarma-inspired Veggie Loaded Chicken Skewers
Recipes

Shawarma-inspired Veggie-Loaded Chicken Skewers – Serves 4-6

In this recipe, the grill marries the Middle Eastern-inspired flavors of the marinade, chicken and veggies beautifully.

Tropical Citrus-glazed Salmon Skewers
Recipes

Tropical Citrus-glazed Salmon Skewers – Serves 4

In this recipe, salmon is marinated then skewered and grilled to perfection with cherry tomatoes and pineapple for a tropical element.

pear salad
Recipes

Pear and Parmesan Arugula Salad with Lemon Juice and Olive Oil

This spring salad contains only whole ingredients and leans on olive oil and lemon for a simple, but nutrient-dense vinaigrette.

shrimp salad
Recipes

Shrimp and Apple Salad with Ginger Vinaigrette

Grilled shrimp marinated in a heart-healthy olive oil-based mixture add a delightful contrast to the crunchy salad.

Meeting of girls at the fashion restaurant
Recipes

3 Delicious Salads with Seasonal Greens

Salads don’t have to be boring. By using a variety of creative ingredients and dressings, you can build a delicious salad that is tailored to your tastes.

salmon salad
Recipes

Grilled Salmon and Pepper Salad with Avocado and Grapefruit

This balanced salad packs in omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins C and K along with plenty of phytonutrients and fiber to support overall health.

strawberry no-jito
Recipes

Strawberry No-Jito

This Strawberry No-jito is a mocktail made with fresh mint leaves and strawberries, lime juice, sparkling water and simple syrup.

mimosa
Recipes

Fresh-squeezed Mimosa Mocktails

This refreshing drink is perfect for those who want to enjoy the flavors of a mimosa without the alcohol content.

Mother's Day mocktails
Recipes

3 Brunch Mocktails for Mother’s Day

Raise a glass to the mothers in your life and enjoy a refreshing mocktail in their honor with these three delicious options.

Sangria mocktail
Recipes

Non-alcoholic Sangria

This sangria-inspired antioxidant-packed drink is a great way to enjoy the flavors of the classic drink, sans the alcohol.

mock-a-rita
Recipes

Blood Orange Mock-A-Rita with a Kick

This refreshing mocktail — made with blood orange, jalapeño, lime juice, simple syrup and lime-flavored sparkling water — is perfect for Cinco de Mayo.

tacos
Recipes

Margarita-marinated Chicken Tacos with Citrus Avocado Salsa

These balanced tacos offer fresh, tasty elements like avocado and grapefruit that are rich in heart-healthy fiber.

latin couple cooking mexican sauce together in their kitchen at home in Mexico city
Recipes

Healthy, Fresh Cinco de Mayo Recipes

As we celebrate Cinco de Mayo, consider these easy reicpes, which put a fresh spin on Mexican-American cuisine.

Toum Recipe
Recipes

Toum Recipe: Everyone’s Favorite Garlic Sauce

Toum is a Lebanese garlic sauce with a creamy, fluffy consistency that’s a perfect addition to grilled meats and veggies alike.

A Healthier Michigan is sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, a nonprofit, independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.
No Personal Healthcare Advice or Other Advice
This Web site provides general educational information on health-related issues and provides access to health-related resources for the convenience of our users. This site and its health-related information and resources are not a substitute for professional medical advice or for the care that patients receive from their physicians or other health care providers.
This site and its health-related information resources are not meant to be the practice of medicine, the practice of nursing, or to carry out any professional health care advice or service in the state where you live. Nothing in this Web site is to be used for medical or nursing diagnosis or professional treatment.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other licensed health care provider. Always consult your health care provider before beginning any new treatment, or if you have any questions regarding a health condition. You should not disregard medical advice, or delay seeking medical advice, because of something you read in this site.