I’m thrilled to introduce a new monthly feature here called The Minnesota Series, where I’ll spotlight favorite spots in and around the Twin Cities. Expect everything from cozy coffee shops to outdoor escapes and memorable restaurants. I’ve realized I haven’t done Minnesota justice on this site, so this series is my way of changing that. … Read more

“Wait, you’re telling me you can get a boost of protein AND eat frozen s’mores?!” Yes — with these Frozen Peanut Butter Protein S’mores, you really can have it all. Greek yogurt, protein powder, honey, and peanut butter combine to create a creamy, protein-rich filling that takes the place of traditional marshmallow. Topped with melted … Read more

Servings: 6 Servings Salsa Verde Cruda Salsa Verde Cruda is a fresh, bright green salsa made from raw tomatillos, serrano chiles, lime, cilantro, and a touch of olive oil. Unlike roasted or cooked green salsas, this uncooked version preserves the tomatillos’ tartness and the herbs’ lively aroma, resulting in a silky, zesty sauce perfect for … Read more

Our take on a simple salmon sushi burrito recipe brings together all the bold, fresh flavors of a spicy salmon roll—rolled burrito-style in nori for a satisfying, handheld meal. This recipe is easy to scale, great for a sushi night at home, and perfect for anyone who loves fresh fish, tangy pickled ginger, and creamy … Read more

Smashed red potatoes are a simple, crispy, and flavorful way to prepare small red potatoes. Boiled until tender, gently smashed, and then finished under a broiler or on the grill, they develop golden, crunchy edges while remaining creamy inside. Finish with your favorite seasoning and a sprinkle of Parmesan for an irresistible side dish. The … Read more

Servings: 6 Servings Camote Enmielado Camote Enmielado is a classic Mexican dessert of thick sweet potato slices gently simmered in a fragrant piloncillo syrup. Infused with cinnamon, cloves, vanilla and citrus, the sweet potatoes become tender and caramelized, glazed in a deep, aromatic syrup. This comforting dish is naturally sweet, simple to prepare, and perfect … Read more

These homemade strawberry pop tarts combine a flaky, protein-forward pastry with a sweet strawberry filling and a creamy cottage cheese glaze. They’re a fun breakfast treat that’s perfect for family mornings or special occasions — I love topping mine with rainbow sprinkles for extra cheer. Each pop tart provides about 9g of protein, making them … Read more

Mini Mexican Street-Style Hotdogs These Mini Mexican Street-Style Hotdogs are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines crispy bacon-wrapped smokies, toasted slider buns, and a topping of sautéed onions and jalapeños. Finished with mayo, ketchup, and mustard, they’re irresistibly savory and ideal for parties, game day, or casual snacking. Servings: 16 mini hotdogs Prep: 15 mins | … Read more

There’s a lot of debate online about the best oven temperature for baking chicken breasts — 400°F, 350°F, 425°F? After decades of experience (and watching my mom cook), the temperature that reliably produces juicy, tender chicken breasts is 375°F. At this temperature you avoid drying out the meat while still getting even cooking and a … Read more

Servings: 6 servings Pollo Asado This pollo asado is marinated in citrus, garlic, and warm spices for bold, smoky flavor that’s perfect for grilling. The bright acidity of lime and orange balances the smoky paprika and earthy achiote, resulting in juicy, well-seasoned grilled chicken. Simple to prepare and easy to scale, this grilled chicken works … Read more