Food and Recipes
3 Ideas to Think Outside the Picnic Basket
In 2022, canned vegetable company Libby’s Vegetables held a Great American Picnic survey to find out which plate is most commonly seen at picnics in the U.S. If you’re looking to refresh your picnic basket ideas, try one of these fresh recipes:
Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce
Though traditional fried spring rolls in a sweet and sour sauce serve up a delicious treat, these fresh and nutrient-packed Vietnamese spring rolls are perfect for a healthy appetizer or part of a meal.
Watermelon “Fries” with Lime Yogurt Sauce
Watermelon tastes great on a hot day - it’s crunchy and thirst-quenching. These watermelon fries are served with a lime protein-packed yogurt sauce.
Corn Salsa Dip
This corn salsa is packed in veggies like creamy avocado and colorful Roma tomatoes and bell peppers. Easy to make, this recipe comes together in under 15 minutes.
Sizzling Summer Eats - Tips for Grilling Perfect Vegetables
Grilling meats is a popular summer tradition, often leaving vegetables to take a backseat. However, grilling vegetables is an excellent choice for side dishes as they’re naturally low in calories but rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber.
Spark up Your 4th of July Table with 2 Festive Recipes
Fourth of July celebrations are synonymous with outdoor barbecues. If you’re looking to update your recipe collection for the occasion, consider trying one of these fresh, patriotic recipes for entertaining or bringing to a cookout.
Red, White and Blue Caprese Salad
The red, white and blue salad provides a fresh and light option, showcasing seasonal produce with the sweetness of blueberries complementing the savory mozzarella and tangy balsamic glaze.
Bang Bang Grilled Chicken Skewers with Spicy Slaw
These skewers are packed with protein and feature a creamy, slightly spicy sauce that adds a zesty kick. Lightly marinated and grilled instead of fried, these are lighter than their traditional “bang bang shrimp” counterpart.
9 Iconic Michigan Ice Cream Parlors to Visit
From the upper peninsula all the way down to Jackson, Michigan is dripping with iconic ice cream parlors. How many of these classic Michigan ice cream spots have you tried?
Sip Outside the Box with 3 Smoothie Recipes
While the word “smoothie” is synonymous with “healthy,” many smoothies may be packed in added sugar and other unhealthy ingredients. However, smoothies can be a great vehicle to pack in nutrient-dense ingredients into a snack or meal replacement if made right.
Inflammation Busting Smoothie
This smoothie contains a chockful of anti-inflammatory ingredients from almond butter, cocoa powder, kale and berries. It’s packed in healthy fats, fiber and goodness.
Healthy “Dessert” Smoothie
Nothing says decadent like the combination of banana, peanut butter and chocolate. In this recipe, cocoa powder provides that chocolate flavor without the added fat and sugar. Instead, it adds anti-inflammatory properties and fiber. Powdered peanut butter provides the flavor of peanut butter but at a fraction of the calories and fat.
Brain Health Smoothie
In this recipe, frozen bananas provide a nice smooth texture and natural sweetness. In addition, the fruit contains potassium which aids in promoting healthy blood pressure. High blood pressure has been shown to put strain on the brain. This smoothie also contains many ingredients promoted on the MIND Diet, specifically designed for brain health and to prevent or delay dementia.
Healthy Summer Dinner - Recipe Roundup
During the summer months, Michigan supplies many local produce options including hot-weather crops such as strawberries, cherries, beans, blackberries, squash, and more. Summer fruits and veggies can be included in dishes to add nutritional quality and flavor. Try one of these summer-inspired recipes to make the most of the season.
Sushi Simplified - Easy Steps to Perfecting Homemade Rolls
While many sushi chefs spend upwards of 10 years studying their craft, it’s possible to make delicious beginner rolls at home. If you’re new to making sushi at home, try one of these easy rolls using approachable seafood and ingredients.
Philadelphia Roll with Veggies
Philadelphia rolls are a staple at the majority of American sushi restaurants. This easy beginner roll is made with smoked salmon and cream cheese, but with some added vegetables for a crunch. Jalapeño adds a little bit of heat, while green onion adds an extra pop of flavor.
Spicy Avocado Shrimp Sushi Roll
This roll features shrimp, creamy avocado and a hint of spice from sriracha. The green onion sprig adds both a nice crunch and pop of flavor.
3 Seasonal Dishes with Strawberries
Strawberry season is here, and it’s a fruitful time for Michiganders. According to Michigan Grown, our state generates $6.6 million from strawberry production, including more than 43,000 tons of fresh strawberries. Strawberries are not just a staple to the local economy, but also to health.
Dark Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding with Strawberries
This pudding tastes so decadent it’s surprising it’s made from only nutrient-dense ingredients. The cocoa powder packs in fiber and antioxidants while the chia seeds pack in brain-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and heart-protective fiber. Simply whisk the ingredients together, let sit overnight and let the magic happen.
Strawberry Cottage Cheese Toast
Loaded in fiber and protein, this recipe is a great breakfast or elevated snack choice. Simply toast bread, add a dollop of cottage cheese and sliced strawberries and top with slivered almonds and a drizzle of balsamic reduction.
Strawberry Garden Feta Salad
Nothing screams summertime more than a fresh salad with strawberries. The sweetness of the berries pairs wonderfully with the savory elements of the salad ingredients and feta cheese.
Healthy Grilling Recipes for Your Memorial Day Menu
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.
2 Bite-sized Tapas Recipes to Spoil Mom for Mother’s Day
Making something for mom is special - you don’t have to break the bank to make her feel celebrated. Alongside something crafty, preparing some special dishes for mom is a great way to celebrate her.
Michigan’s Best Farmers Markets
Michigan is home to roughly 300 farmers markets. Here are more than a half dozen of our favorites from around the state.
Spice Up Cinco de Mayo with Two Healthy Recipes
Cinco de Mayo is more than just a day for margaritas and tacos; it commemorates the Mexican army's victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Despite its historical significance, Cinco de Mayo has evolved into a lively celebration of Mexican heritage and pride.
Celebrate Dog Appreciation Month with Activity and Homemade Treats
Did you know that more than one-third of families in the U.S. have a dog, and most people consider their dogs as family members? As our furry friends are part of our family, it's essential to take care of their health. Making your own healthy dog treats can be easy and requires only a few simple ingredients.
No-bake Pumpkin Bites
These no-bake bites are made from healthy and delicious ingredients for your furry friend. The recipe comes together in just 5 minutes and is ready to serve within an hour.
Blueberry Pup-accino
Dogs go crazy over this recipe and it requires no visit to the drive-through. Simply add a few staple household ingredients to a blender, scoop and serve.
3 Elevated Grilled Cheese Recipes
Grilled cheese sandwiches have long held a cherished spot in the hearts and stomachs of many, not just kids. In fact, according to a 2019 YouGov survey, grilled cheese reigns as the most popular sandwich among Americans.
Pizza-inspired Grilled Cheese
In this recipe, melty fresh mozzarella alongside your favorite pasta sauce and Italian herbs come together for pizza flavors without the effort. In general, mozzarella is lower in sodium and calories than other cheeses, making it a heart healthier option.
Fig and Pear Grilled Cheese
This recipe puts a sense of class into a grilled cheese. The bitterness of the Brie cheese is perfectly accompanied by the fig jam. If you don’t have fig jam, any other type of jam will provide a hint of sweetness to cut the bitterness.
Buffalo Grilled Cheese
This recipe has that kick of buffalo everyone loves – the tang from the vinegar and the kick of heat from cayenne. Both the avocado and jack cheese adds a creamy component that literally makes this a melt-in-your-mouth meal.
3 Spring-inspired Mocktail Recipes
April is Alcohol Awareness Month, which sheds light on the role of alcoholic beverages in our lives. Alcohol is a central component of social gatherings, celebrations and moments of relaxation. As spring arrives, and the opportunities for celebration increase, consider trying one of these refreshing mocktail options.
Ginger Lemon Mocktail
Ginger and lemon are ideal flavor combinations for a refreshing beverage. In this balanced mocktail, citrus provides a refreshing acid profile, honey balances it with sweetness while the ginger adds a hint of spice.
Grapefruit and Thyme Refresher
This refreshing mocktail recipe is citrusy with light hints of woodsy and savory elements from the thyme. The grapefruit’s bitterness mocks the taste of alcohol, while its tartness is balanced with honey.
Three Healthy Sandwich Recipes for Leftover Hard-boiled Eggs
Leftover hardboiled eggs can be used for a range of things like snacks, salads and sandwiches. Check out these sandwich ideas to make the most of the Easter leftovers.
Pesto and Sautéed Spinach Egg Sandwich
This nutrient-dense sandwich features garlicky pesto and sautéed spinach for a rich base. Tomatoes and mozzarella add additional Italian elements for this filling egg sandwich.
Scandinavian-inspired Smoked Salmon Egg Sandwich
This toast features Scandinavian influence of flavors including rye bread, smoked salmon with lemon, peppery arugula, crisp English cucumber and mustard.
Avocado Egg Toast with Fresh Sprouts
This protein-rich avocado toast features heart-healthy fats from the avocado, protein from the eggs and a host of health benefits from the seasonal sprouts.
The Month-by-Month Guide for When to Eat Michigan Produce
Certain fruits and veggies are in-season in Michigan between March and September. Learn about each one and find out how long each growing season lasts.
Welcome Spring with Three Healthy Recipes
During March and April, Michigan experiences a bounty of spring produce including cool-weather crops. Try one of these spring-inspired recipes to make the most of the season’s produce.
Crispy Broccolini and Mushrooms with Gochujang Noodles
This recipe showcases the famous Korean spicy-sweet paste, gochujang, heart-healthy olive oil, a hint of honey and plenty of garlic. The result is a delicious sauce that coats fettuccine noodles.
Beet Whipped Feta with Orange Zest
This vibrant recipe is perfect for spring entertaining. Greek yogurt, which is rich in calcium, vitamin D, probiotics and protein, serves as a creamy base for this dip. Beets add a bright pink color as well as antioxidants.
Pistachio Crusted Salmon with Roasted Asparagus
This is a simple and heart-healthy recipe perfect for family weeknight dinners. The dish features salmon brushed with a mixture of Dijon mustard and honey that sticks the rich breading of panko breadcrumbs and pistachios.
Three Non-Alcoholic St. Paddy’s Day Drinks
Here are three delicious and easy-to-make non-alcoholic St. Paddy's Day drinks that are perfect for celebrating the holiday.
Three Healthy Cabbage Recipes
Incorporating cabbage into your diet can provide numerous health benefits. Here are three healthy cabbage recipes to try.
8 Healthy Snacks for Pregnancy
These healthy pregnancy snacks incorporate many key nutrients and are also easy to prepare, transport and eat whether at home, work or on-the-go.
Everything You Need to Know About White Strawberries
White strawberries are sweeter than red ones and can even smell tropical. Here’s what you need to know about this cream-colored fruit.
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Best Ways to Make Your Diet Heart Healthy
Want to make some heart-healthy changes to your diet? It’s easier than you might think and it starts with some basic meal-planning tips.
What to Know About the New Mayo Clinic Diet
A new diet and healthy lifestyle program being rolled out by the well-known Mayo Clinic is creating a buzz.
Which Cooking Oils Are Best for Heart Health?
Grocery aisles are filled with choices. All oils are a type of fat, so they should be used sparingly compared to other ingredients in your diet. But there are some easy ways to tell which oils are better for your health.
Cheese You Can Eat if You’re Lactose Intolerant
If you're lactose intolerant but still crave cheese, there are several kinds that won't upset your stomach and can still satisfy your taste buds.
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.
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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Is Peanut Butter Healthy?
Peanut butter lovers may be aware of some of the pros and cons associated with their rich, creamy snack of choice. Let's dive into those, as well as some of the lesser-known peanut butter health facts.
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.
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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.
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.
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.
Dry January Mocktails and DIY Garnishes
Ready to take part in Dry January? Here are some recipes for mocktails and DIY garnishes.
Exploring the Pros and Cons of Milk Alternatives
From soy to almond milks, let’s look at the pros and cons of milk alternatives when it comes to your health and the environment.
Whole Foods to Eat in the Winter
In the colder months especially, using whole foods to create nourishing and satisfying meals is one way to give ourselves a delicious health boost.
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.
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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.
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.
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.
Cucumber Shrimp Bites
These crunchy, sweet and savory delights offer healthy fats from the avocado and protein from the shrimp – adding a satisfying element.
Holiday Hummus Wreath
This hummus dip is filled with healthy fats and protein to add a satisfying element.
3 Healthy Holiday Appetizers for Potlucks and Parties
If you are looking for a tasty dish to bring to a holiday party, we’ve got you covered with these easy-to-make appetizers.
Foods to Help Digestion and Bloating
The foods we eat, even our history with food, can impact our daily digestion.
What is a Mocktail?
Call it a mocktail, a virgin version or a non-alcoholic drink. They’re the hottest things on the beverage menu right now.
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.
Cardamom Chocolate Chip Cookies
This recipe for Cardamom Chocolate Chip Cookies that are free of milk, eggs, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soy and sesame.
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.
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.
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Rethink Thanksgiving Leftovers with These Recipes
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.
Diabetes-Friendly Thanksgiving Ideas
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Vegan Thanksgiving: Metro Detroit Restaurants, Food Trucks With 2023 Holiday Menus
Detroit area vegans rejoice! There’s a long list of metro Detroit and Michigan restaurants offering 100% plant-based Thanksgiving meals.
Best and Worst Ways to Cook a Turkey
There are so many different ways to cook a turkey. Let’s look at some of the best - and worst - ways to get this big bird onto your holiday table.
Pros and Cons of Vegan Cheese
Thinking of switching to vegan cheese? The plant-based product has its fair share of health advantages compared to dairy cheese. But it has its drawbacks, too.
One-pan Maple Glazed Salmon with Crispy Broccoli
Whether you’re cooking for a family or just yourself, a one-pan dish is arguably the perfect lazy-day meal besides takeout.
Tips for Decoding Egg Labels
Free-range. Cage-free. Organic. What do all these words on your egg cartons really mean?
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“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.
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.
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.
Nutrition Differences in Farm-Raised vs. Wild-Caught Fish
Does it matter if the fish on your plate was pulled fresh from a local lake or flown in from a fish farm?
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