Baking has never been my strong suit but, since embarking on my culinary journey in the Chef's Training Program at The Natural Gourmet Institute for Health and Culinary Arts, my feelings toward baking have improved. It was in the wheat-free and gluten-free baking class where my affinity for chocolate coconut macaroons was permanently realized and my appreciation for baking as an art form was confirmed. The simplicity of this decadent recipe is an easy sell, and its light and rich taste and texture seals the deal. Gluten-free chocolate coconut macaroons - perfect for Passover or for a seamless gluten-free treat.
Read moreback to school breakfast - oatmeal stuffed baked apples with cinnamon yogurt
Baked apples with cinnamon yogurt can fall into either the breakfast or the dessert category. They are easy to make, provide fiber, protein, and complex carbs, and, bonus, they make your kitchen smell incredible. Baked apples are no new recipe revelation but, with a healthy twist and a generous serving of yogurt, this take is certainly more balanced and nutritious than your grandmother's version.
Read morethe perfect apple crisp to get you ready for fall
Nothing quite says fall like an apple crisp. Cinnamon and spices mingled together with tender apples and a buttery, crumbly, crispy topping oozing with flavor and decadence. Yet, not all apple crisps are created equal. This crisp is loaded with flavorful seasonal apples and topped with an oat and nut mixture sweetened with maple syrup and dates. Decadent enough for dessert - healthy enough for breakfast.
Read moreradish recs: turn up your hot chocolate
Looking for a drinkable dessert this Valentine's Day that's just the right amount of naughty? Look no further than this dark chocolate hazelnutty cocoa with a splash of the hard stuff - guaranteed to get the sparks flying and the libido pumping.
Read moreditch the prix fixe and make your own valentine's day dinner
I am all for dining out on special occasions but, after years of slinging over-priced prix fixe menus during my restaurant days, I relish the opportunity to cook Valentine's dinner at home. Spending time with your special person in the kitchen is the perfect opportunity to connect. Source a few unique ingredients, grab a nice bottle of wine, light some candles, put on some tunes, and you're in business.
Read morehealthy holiday series: what's for christmas morning?
I rarely bake. When I do, I try and create healthified versions of classic favorites. One of the reasons that I typically do not dabble in the baking department is because I lack control and end up munching away at the finished product - regardless of its level of deliciousness. When contemplating a warm and comforting Christmas morning breakfast that would not be riddled with regret, I settled on one of my personal favorites, banana bread.
Read morepumpkin icebox pie
If you think that pumpkin pie is just for Thanksgiving, then this recipe is not for you. For everyone else, especially all my fellow pumpkin heads and aficionados, then you have come to the right place. Pumpkin is a hallmark of the fall and winter season, and this pie allows you to celebrate the squash in all its orange-hued glory. Gluten-free, simple, and delicious, this icebox pie will be sure to leave its mark on any festive gathering.
Read moreboo! healthy halloween...so scary
The holiday known for gorging on absurd amounts of sugar and chocolate puts any dentist or dietitian in a stupor. You can have your cake (or brownie) and eat it too with this virtuous treat that will be sure to scare all your halloween guests silly.
Read morepeach + blueberry crumble
I am by no means a baker - I like to leave that to the pros. In the summer when fruit is pure magic and little to no sugar or "extras" are needed, I break out of my anti-baking mentality. This crumble is what I like to call "baby baking" or "baking light". Precise measurements are not 100 percent required, and the ingredients are adaptable, depending on what fruit you happen to have on hand or what is in season.
Read morebalsamic roasted strawberry chia pops
In the summer months our bodies gravitate toward cool and refreshing foods. Unfortunately, most ice creams, popsicles, and sorbets are laced with processed sugar, gums, and emulsifiers. Before you blame me for ruining all your childhood ice cream memories, consider this nutritious and virtuous popsicle. Not only will this summer time treat cool you down, it will load you up with calcium, protein, omega 3's, Vitamin C, and fiber. Sweetened only with pure maple syrup and roasted strawberries, these popsicles are nutritious and balanced enough to begin your day with. Believe me, I have conducted extensive research.
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