Shanthi Appelo, MS, RD

These bites capture that festive peppermint mocha flavor in a more balanced, bite-sized form that provides a bit of fuel.

With just a few ingredient swaps, cookies can get a nutrition boost with fiber, protein and even healthy fats - all while satisfying a sweet tooth.

If scrolling and swiping makes you feel less than festive, don’t let social media put a damper on your holiday celebrations.

With grocery prices high and holiday spending right around the corner, many are feeling the pinch at the checkout line. But eating well doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

Shakshuka loosely translates to “all mixed up” in Arabic. It’s originally a North African dish featuring poached eggs in a flavorful tomato sauce.

This filling dinner leans on shelf-stable pantry staples and is elevated with a few extra ingredients.

This recipe is a great and versatile way to elevate chickpeas. To save more on this recipe, the oil can be swapped for canola, vegetable oil or whatever is in the pantry.

For those managing diabetes, the traditional Thanksgiving spread can pose a challenge. However, it is possible to enjoy the feast without sending your blood sugar soaring.

Sweet potatoes, with their caramelized edges and buttery centers, become the perfect canvas for a crumble of tangy feta and a handful of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary or parsley.

Steaming is one of the best cooking methods to retain broccoli’s vibrant green color, crunch and health benefits. Compared to methods like stir-frying and roasting, steaming uses gentle heat and minimal water, helping the florets retain both nutrition and flavor.

Tossed with tender kale, fragrant sage and just enough butter to bring everything together, this dish features comfort without being overindulgent. It’s easy enough for a weeknight and elegant enough to impress – especially when you tell everyone the gnocchi is made from scratch.

Enjoying food-centered holidays can be a real challenge for people with diabetes but there are ways to make these traditional gatherings more diabetes-friendly.

When an onion “fights back,” it’s just defending itself with an eye irritant. This volatile molecule that reaches your eyes, reacts with the water in your tear film and produces the stinging sensation that triggers reflex tears.

With a few tweaks and additional ingredients, you can make this humble cut of meat into flavorful, healthy dishes that keep mealtime exciting while supporting health goals.

Here are some ideas on how to make your charcuterie offerings extra spooky.

Between getting dressed up and heading out for trick-or-treating, sitting down for a nutritious meal might not seem like a priority, but it can make a big difference.

Whole wheat pizzas topped with the classics and veggies made into spooky toppings make this meal a wholesome option ahead of trick-or-treating.

Juicy mozzarella balls wrapped in prosciutto and topped with pimento-stuffed olive “pupils” transform an ordinary pasta dish into something straight out of a haunted Italian kitchen.

Spaghetti squash is nutrient-dense – low in calories but high in fiber, beta-carotene and vitamin C. It helps support a healthy gut, eyesight and immune system.

When that sweet tooth hits, it’s easy to reach for cookies, candy or ice cream. These are great in moderation, but what if your dessert could satisfy cravings and offer nourishing qualities at the same time?

These cinnamon sugar apple rings are an easy breakfast addition or treat. Dipped in a batter and seared, they have a soft fluffy outside with a satisfying crunch inside.

Deconstructed lasagna skips the most time-consuming and fussy parts of traditional lasagna while delivering similar flavors. This creamy pasta sauce relies on nutrient-rich butternut squash along with ricotta for creaminess and is balanced with pesto for a contrast in flavor.

Let’s look at the causes of childhood obesity, preventable factors and ways to create healthy habits for children.

Tailgates are as much about food and fun as they are about the big game, but planning a dish that satisfies a hungry crowd can feel overwhelming. Wow your crew with fan favorites while adding in a little extra balance with these recipes.

Baguette or flatbread topped with sweet, caramelized onions and crisp apple slices offer a refreshing break from heavier fare. This dish strikes the balance of sweet, savory and crunchy.

Buffalo chicken dip is a fan favorite at any tailgate — creamy, spicy and difficult to stop eating. This lighter version, made with cottage cheese and less cream cheese, keeps the flavor but dials back the heaviness

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

Love corn? We've come up with two unique seasoning of elote to explore new flavors.

As the back-to-school season approaches, parents and guardians are tasked with the job of packing nutritious lunches for their children. Students who consume a balanced lunch perform better academically and have more energy throughout the day.

Amid all the change, figuring out how to eat healthy can feel like another challenge, but it doesn’t have to be.

This is a comfort food upgrade packed with nutrients and flavor - and it only requires cleaning one pot and no chopping.

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, juicy peach straight from the oven.

Peaches are more than just a summer treat - they're a nutrient-rich fruit offering a variety of health benefits. They can add a burst of flavor to salads, complement proteins when grilled and can shine at the breakfast table.

This seasonal recipe is a lighter take on a classic dessert with less sugar and butter, while packing in fiber from whole wheat oat flour and oats.

Panzanella is a classic Tuscan salad made of dried Italian bread, ripe tomatoes and a simple vinaigrette. This version adds grilled peaches which brings caramelized flavor to this dish without added sugar.

This delicious summer appetizer strikes the balance between simplicity, nutrition and restaurant-quality flavor.

There are a myriad of physical and mental health benefits associated with eating outdoors. Here is how getting into the habit of eating outside here and there can improve your health.

While many frozen treats are loaded with added sugars and ultra-processed ingredients, it’s surprisingly easy to make something indulgent and nourishing at home.

This year, consider swapping out some of the heavy, traditional dishes for lighter, plant-forward options that don’t sacrifice flavor. Here are three simple, wholesome recipes that spotlight the best of Michigan’s summer harvest.

Fresh-caught Great Lakes whitefish pairs well with creamy, citrusy slaw for delicious tacos.

A playful and healthier take on a backyard staple, these corn “ribs” transform sweet corn into a smoky, satisfying side.

Heirloom tomato flights are a beautiful and effortless appetizer that offer a punch of nutrition.

June is National Dairy Month, a good time to look at the pros and cons of dairy milk, how dairy compares to milk alternatives and the dangers of raw milk.

Prioritizing health doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or tradition. It’s an opportunity to reimagine Father’s Day favorites with a fresh and wholesome twist.

This shaved frozen fruit treat relies on the natural sweetness of ripe seasonal strawberries. Strawberries are loaded with vitamin C, fiber and phytonutrients that support heart health and reduce inflammation.

Salmon is a powerhouse of heart-healthy omega-3s, high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamin D and selenium. The feta cheese brings a rich, tangy flavor to the salmon burgers, while cap

This Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad is packed with fiber-rich vegetables, healthy fats from olive oil and antioxidant-rich herbs.

By grilling half a head of romaine, the salad body stays intact well and makes for a beautiful presentation. This recipe takes on a Southwestern flavor with cotija cheese, cilantro and chipotle ranch.

Grilling is a popular cooking technique because of the flavor and caramelization it produces. A good marinade combined with the fire of the grill allows complex flavors develop with a texturally pleasing aftermath.

Memorial Day is the unofficial kickoff to grilling season. It’s the perfect time to gather with loved ones, enjoy the warmer weather and indulge in delicious grilled foods. Try one of these healthy grilled skewer pairings for your Memorial Day celebration.

This swordfish is lightly marinated and grilled to perfection. Swordfish is a great selection of fish to grill – it’s meaty enough to hold its texture compared to more delicate options that may fall apart. The salsa verde uses flat leaf parsley as the base herb where a small bit of jalapeño kicks up the heat and capers give it a complex, salty bite.

This Mother’s Day, why not flip the script? Give Mom a well-deserved break from kitchen duty and let the kids take over with a simple, heartfelt brunch.

Cinco de Mayo has evolved into a lively celebration of Mexican heritage and pride. Celebrate the occasion with these two creative and healthy recipes.

Try one of these easy-to-prepare recipes packed with flavor and seasonal produce Michigan has to offer this spring.

Mushrooms are a great way to add a savory component to any recipe, so it’s perfect in a stroganoff. Enjoy this recipe for meatless Monday with silken tofu mixed in or go the meat route with seared or grilled chicken. This recipe goes great with broiled asparagus.

This green goddess dressing uses creamy avocado and tangy Greek yogurt as a base to enjoy the goodness of fresh herbs. Use as an antioxidant-packed salad dressing, dipping sauce or drizzled on top of grilled meats.

Eggs are a staple food for decorating and eating during the Easter holiday. But this year, consumers may take a different approach to set their holiday table. If you’re looking for light and delicious recipes to serve this Easter, we’ve got you covered with three fresh ideas.

Crudité cups are an easy appetizer that everyone can enjoy at the table or when socializing. These individual cuts of blanched and fresh vegetables, paired with an herb-based dipping sauce, are light and refreshing.

Waffles are a classic celebratory breakfast. Their health value can be elevated by skipping the syrup, making them whole grain, topping them with fresh strawberries and a light creamy topping.

These three-ingredient cookies’ natural sweetness comes from fiber-rich dates. They are a more wholesome, nutrient-dense alternative to the door-to-door sold cookies.

Want to get better, more consistent sleep? Improving sleep quality may be a few diet tweaks away. Here’s how food affects the sleep cycle, and which foods promote and disrupt a good night’s sleep.

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day as a family is a great way to break the routine and make the day-to-day exciting. Creating colorful, creative snacks is a good way to foster a love for healthy eating while making memories. Here are two easy-to-make, nutritious ideas.

Caffeine is a stimulant that has wide-ranging effects on the body. You have to consider its impact on digestion, whether it dehydrates you and how it affects your heart before consuming unhealthy amounts of it.

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

Made by simmering rice in milk with spices, rice pudding takes on a creamy consistency that pairs well with fruit. This recipe features cardamom and allows the pudding to take on a complex flavor profile with a sweetness that marries well with the hint of brown sugar.

These glazed carrots are roasted until fork tender and served with a creamy Greek yogurt sauce for a dose of protein. The pistachios add a nice contrasting crunch and flavors that work so well with this spring crop. Enjoy this vegetarian delight as an appetizer or a side.

This refreshing salad has crisp romaine and sweet strawberries. The vinaigrette is made from champagne vinegar and fresh strawberries that perfectly marry basil and heart-healthy olive oil. The quick-pickled onions and goat cheese add complex flavors to this spring salad.

Many of us are looking for keto soup and high protein soup recipes this winter to complement our fitness goals. Check out these two hearty winter soup recipes, both of which are health and easy to make.

While genetic factors play a role in heart health, lifestyle choices—especially diet—are critical in managing risk. Heart-healthy eating can improve cholesterol levels and triglycerides, reduce inflammation and support healthy blood pressure.

Cherries are abundant in Michigan because the state is the top producer of tart cherries and the fourth largest producer of sweet cherries in the U.S.

The Big Game day is America’s second largest food consumption day after Thanksgiving. Popular dishes include wings, chips and dips - the latter being a particular Midwest favorite.

Wings are a Big Game staple. In fact, the National Chicken Council estimates Americans eat 1.45 billion chicken wings during the special night.

These gingery and lightly spicy noodles get their creaminess from healthy fats in peanut butter. Sugar snap peas and shredded carrots add a nice crunch and boost the fiber and antioxidants content.

This smoothie is naturally sweet and creamy from mango and banana. The oats add a subtle nutty flavor and contribute to a more filling and nourishing smoothie.

This pancake batter consists of only five ingredients and is easily made in a blender. Blueberries and lemon zest add refreshing elements and are a perfect flavor combination in this breakfast treat.

These oat bars are a perfect chewy and refreshing snack packed with antioxidants from the deep colored raspberries. Between the raspberries, chia seeds and oats, this recipe is packed with fiber that’ll help keep you full until your next meal.

Oats are a popular breakfast staple and for good reason. Packed with essential nutrients, they’re an excellent source of fiber, vitamins and minerals.

Expect high protein food products, foods that promote healthy aging and functional water to be among the trendiest food and beverage items of 2025.

While health content like recipes and workout inspiration can be helpful, it’s a good idea to be mindful of red flags when influencers push products or plans.

Holiday festivities often mean pulling out recipes we only eat once a year. But seasonal dishes don’t have to be complicated – or lacking nutrition.

The holiday season often brings an abundance of indulgent foods. While it’s OK to enjoy your favorite foods, it’s a good idea to mix in nutrient-dense and vegetable forward options with the traditional spread.

These seafood crab and dill bites are a perfect refreshing and protein-packed starter. Dill adds a burst of flavor while cucumber brings a crisp element to this dish.

These appetizer bites are earthy and savory. Sautéed mushrooms and a zesty horseradish cream filling make an elegant and flavorful appetizer.

This bite-sized appetizer brings balanced flavor with fat from avocado, acid from lime, salt from turkey bacon and a sweet-tart flavor from sundried tomatoes. These bites will bring color to your holiday table.

Take a break from the normal holiday shopping routine while being kind to the environment at the same time by making handmade, DIY gifts. Here are some ideas.

Leftovers are nice, but after a few meals of Thanksgiving turkey, it might be time to spice things up. Here are some delicious ways to do that.

While turkey, stuffing and mashed potatoes are often the stars of the table, Friendsgiving is a great opportunity to make twists on family favorites and share cultural dishes. Consider featuring dishes that offer a modern twist on classic sides.

Crispy rice salads are trending all over social media. This one is a fall-inspired take with nutrient-dense kale, sweet-tart cranberries and a thyme vinaigrette.

Dips and spreads often lean on heavy cream cheese or mayo-based ingredients. This whipped feta provides a creamy, tangy alternative with more health value.

Green beans are a classic vegetable side, but the fresh, sauteed versions often get overshadowed by heavier, richer dishes. This simple yet elevated recipe takes the humble green bean to the next level.

As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, many Americans find comfort in seasonal beverages. While these drinks can be a treat, they often come with excess ingredients that can negatively affect your health if consumed frequently.

A chai latte is a spiced beverage that combines warm, creamy milk with a robust blend of black tea and aromatic spices that provides a balance of sweetness and warmth. Simply steep tea bags in oat milk heated in a pot and add spices.

This cozy fall drink features the creamy, nutty and earthy flavor of pistachio. The pistachio syrup is incorporated with the espresso shot, to allow the flavors to melt together. By adding the pistachio syrup to the espresso rather than the milk, it helps prevent the milk from burning and provides a smoother taste.

Whether going door-to-door or attending a party, candy is synonymous with Halloween. Between the sweets, it can be a good idea to add in nutrient-dense recipes and talk to children about healthy behaviors around candy.

This layered taco dip is bound to be a Halloween party crowd-pleaser from flavor to presentation. The dip is made up of protein-rich lean turkey, seared with vegetables and taco seasoning for a fragrant base.

Making these spooky treats is a great crafty family activity with a delicious aftermath. Naturally sweet Honeycrisp apple slices are lightly dipped in a dark chocolate, then drizzled with white chocolate to form a festive webbed pattern.

These ghostly bites feature classic Italian fresh flavors of tomato, oregano, basil and mozzarella cheese.

Eating a healthy and well-rounded diet can improve mental health and make mental health obstacles easier to deal with. On the other hand, a poor diet can be a catalyst for poor mental health and can make it more difficult to manage mental health struggles.

Malnutrition is often associated with being severely underweight. However, anyone whose body is deprived of the nutrients it needs to maintain healthy tissues and organ function is malnourished.

Diet culture has made many reluctant to consume pasta. However, a 2020 study found that in general, pasta eaters had better diet quality compared to those who avoided it.