Healthier Meal Makeovers

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      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      ditto!

      about 1 year ago
    • Cooper 1 comment
    • We are SO EXCITED for this class today. I definitely need a "healthier meal makeover!" Thank you SO MUCH ladies for being here!
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      My 7 and 5 year old sons love food they can dip and spread. I make edamame hummus and eggplant dips that they love to put on pita chips or just dip carrots into. And don't underestimate a salad with every meal. I use spinach or arugula with a lemony vinaigrette or homemade buttermilk ranch dressing.

      about 1 year ago

      robin

      Emily, this is our issue in our home, too!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Emily - wow, you're lucky she eats raw veggies! what are you looking to incorporate more of?

      about 1 year ago

      altdotanise

      Oh, yes! This is us! It's not that I don't know how to make a meal healthier-- it's that I don't know how to make a healthier meal kid-friendly.

      about 1 year ago
    • Emily 4 comments
    • I can't wait!!!!!! Thank you amazing women for hosting this conversation today!!!

      Here's my first question: My younger daughter loves starchy white foods - pastas, breads, rice, crackers, etc. We use whole grain versions often, but still ... it's a lot of carbs. Here's my question - she eats raw veggies too and I would love recipe ideas for incorporating more veggies so my eight year old might actually try them!

      Thank you!!!!
      about 1 year ago
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    • Karen of 3G2S 0 comments
    • I'm going to try hard to make this one, but if I can't, I will definitely come back and read the tips that were shared. I need all the help I can get in this department. :)
      about 1 year ago
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    • Donna B. 0 comments
    • I'm definitely in need of this class :) I'll be working but I'll try to follow along.
      about 1 year ago
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    • NotQuiteSusie 0 comments
    • I'm going to miss the chat because I have to head to work but I wanted to say hello since I'm going to be reading every.single.word AFTERwards, when I get home. This is a topic I need. :) Have fun everyone!
      about 1 year ago
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      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      Welcome Robin! I think this is a great class for you.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      If you eat, it definitely counts!

      about 1 year ago

      robin

      Thanks!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      No need to be a cook, Robin! just get ideas and inspiration!

      about 1 year ago

      robin

      Great, Erin! I am a healthy eater, so that counts, right?

      about 1 year ago

      Erin O

      Welcome, Robin! It's definitely okay. You don't need to be a cook to learn about healthy cooking! :)

      about 1 year ago
    • robin 6 comments
    • Happy to be here but I am NOT a cook! Yikes! I really hope that is OK and that I am not way out of my league here...
      about 1 year ago
    • X
    • robin 0 comments
    • Great video you guys posted here in the header. Loved it!
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
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      1Chef

      It's something we all need!

      about 1 year ago
    • SouthernFairyt 1 comment
    • excited for the class today! Can't wait to talk healthier foods
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
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      Kayla S

      I'm so excited! Renee, maybe you can give me some healthy tips since you're a runner? I just started training yesterday for my first half-marathon. Looking for healthy and delicious foods that will help me continue to lose weight while I train!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Nice to learn new ideas!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      It should be fun!

      about 1 year ago
    • ReneeJRoss 3 comments
    • I can't wait for the class to start!
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Hey you!!

      about 1 year ago
    • Jennifer@Savor 1 comment
    • Super excited laadies - bring it on!
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
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    • Erin O 0 comments
    • For anyone who wants to tweet along with the class, the hashtag is #CookingConnections :)
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
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      Alison

      Hi, Debbi!

      about 1 year ago
    • Debbi 1 comment
    • It should be fun!
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
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    • Wendy 0 comments
    • What a great idea! I can't wait for the class to start!
      about 1 year ago
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      1Chef

      It's about balance!

      about 1 year ago

      @ArtoftheSpa

      TY & hi! Is iDreamofClean your twitter handle? Love it, Candy

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      Good one!

      about 1 year ago
    • @ArtoftheSpa 3 comments
    • Looking forward to chatting healthy food with you all! A passion of mine indulging without bulging ; )
      about 1 year ago
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      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      yay!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      I'm here, too! Yay!!

      about 1 year ago
    • Sommer Collier 2 comments
    • I'm here! Can't wait to get started!
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
      X

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      I just made a pitcher of lemonade!

      about 1 year ago

      robin

      Brownie is not a bad word here is it??? Please say I can keep my chocolate. Please...

      about 1 year ago

      robin

      I'm chowing down on left-over veggie stir-fry with tofu (do I get brownie points for that)?

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      yuck. my fam has been sick all week, too. :(

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      I'm here too with my tea, water, cough drops, and Tamiflu. You know I'm sick when I have no taste for food, coffee, or wine.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      I've got OJ! ;)

      about 1 year ago

      Cara

      I got my Diet coke!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      I ran out of coffee :/ I got my apple juice ready tho'. :)

      about 1 year ago
    • DinnerwithJulie 8 comments
    • I'm here too! Hot coffee in hand!
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
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      Emily

      Hi there!!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Hi!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Hey!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      How are you, Rachel? Great to "see" you today!

      about 1 year ago

      Kayla S

      Hi Katie! Glad you're here :)

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      Hi Katie!

      about 1 year ago
    • Katie Goodman 6 comments
    • Hello everyone!
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      I have a toddler. Just made him a snack and got out a toy that he hasn't seen in awhile to keep him entertained! Usually that does the trick!

      about 1 year ago

      Emily

      Hi Tiffany! So glad you can be here!!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Cooking with one hand, are ya?

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      It's a challenge - just like being a mother!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      Hey Tiffany!

      about 1 year ago
    • Tiffany 5 comments
    • Hi all! Trying to figure out how to juggle this with a crawler who's trying to get into everything.
      about 1 year ago
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    • Erin O 0 comments
    • Hi all,

      We'll be starting in a few minutes!

      A few reminders. This is all text based - like a real time blog. There is no audio or video feed, just us typing to each other.

      If the class is moving fast and you have a post or comment you want to come back to later, you can "star" it via the button above the post. You can also find Vanessa, Rachel, Renee or the co-hosts by clicking on Host Posts or Co-Host Posts at the left.

      The class will go until about 2 pm ET or so. At 2 pm ET we will give away three ConAgra Foods gift bags to three random winners.

      We will have a summary up tomorrow which will provide an overview of all the wonderful tips and suggestions that we gather today!

      A big thanks to all of you. We're excited about this awesome group, and we are so honored you are here! And thank you to ConAgra Foods, our fabulous sponsor, for partnering with us on Cooking Connections!

      THANK YOU! Over to you, Vanessa, Rachel and Renee!!!
      about 1 year ago
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      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      Since blogging I have gained 20 pounds. :/

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      i think we all are

      about 1 year ago

      Tiffany

      As are we. My husband seems to have gained 40 pounds since I met him.

      about 1 year ago
    • Hollydays 3 comments
    • Looking forward to talking about healthy meal makeovers! We are always looking for that around my house!
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      Hey lady!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      hello back to one of my faves!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      Hi darlin'!

      about 1 year ago
    • onceamonthmom 3 comments
    • So excited to see some of my favorite bloggers leading this talk!
      about 1 year ago
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      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      Welcome Jeannine!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      fun! glad you're here!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      welcome jeannine!

      about 1 year ago
    • jeannine m 3 comments
    • Hello all...this is my first time here :)
      about 1 year ago
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      1Chef

      Hola!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      Welcome Kristin!

      about 1 year ago

      Kristin Hale

      Thank Kayla, I look forward to it

      about 1 year ago

      Kayla S

      Welcome, Kristin! We hope you enjoy it!

      about 1 year ago
    • Kristin Hale 4 comments
    • First time here...very excited
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
      X

      Talk Host

      Chefdruck

      Congrats Renee! 50 pounds! That's an amazing achievement. I also hate the word diet. It implies short term, drastic changes. But it's all about moderation and educated choices.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      I am continually on a journey to healthy living! It is how I've lost 50 pounds and keep it off.

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      How about "healthier lifestyle"?

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      I never say diet, because to me that implies: no taste, no personality, etc. Healthy food can be incredibly delicious and satisfying.

      about 1 year ago

      Tiffany

      It's definitely a lifestyle change. We haven't been "dieting" to lose weight, but have been trying to make substitutions to more natural products when possible (e.g. avoiding unnecessary preservatives).

      about 1 year ago

      Cara

      diet is very negative in my book too-- because it sohould be changes that remain permanent not just for a little while

      about 1 year ago

      Alison

      We've started this week with eating healthier.

      about 1 year ago

      Kayla S

      Diet is a dirty word. It's about listening to your body, eating when you're hungry and not depriving yourself of the things that you want...just making them in a much healthier way!

      about 1 year ago

      Cara

      we've been doing the same thing-- my son needed to loose 15 pounds because of his asthma and he's lost ten -- so far, so good

      about 1 year ago

      Hollydays

      hubby and I talked about how much we hate the word diet...it's a lifestyle change...that is doable!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      That's the thing, isn't it? You don't want to suggest deprivation or settling for some sort of "lesser" food!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      It's like having an adventure - with new foods!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      I don't say diet, either. It's all about moderation and changes

      about 1 year ago
    • newyorkchica 13 comments
    • This year I am trying to introduce all healthy foods to the whole family. I never say the word diet - just healthy. Seems to be working slowly but surely.
      about 1 year ago
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      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      I was just thinking the same thing. This conversation is going fast!

      about 1 year ago

      Erin O

      If you feel like you missed anything, you can always go back later and read the conversation - and we will have a summary of the Talk posted tomorrow to provide a snapshot of the highlights!

      about 1 year ago
    • Alison 2 comments
    • sure hope I can keep up!
      about 1 year ago
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      Nicole

      It was through Rouxbe and it was wonderful. . go your own pace. . thought I was doing fine until I took the courses and learn things I couldn't imagine

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      my kids and I love to cook together -- I'd love for us to take a cooking class

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      Cooking together as a family is a great way to engage everyone in making healthy food choices. It's admittedly messy but fun.

      about 1 year ago

      Nicole

      he actually wants to be a chef so I am hoping to happen with his passion also

      about 1 year ago

      Nicole

      My six year old loves to cook ever since he was 4

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      FUN! I took one cooking class and would LOVE to take more! What kind of lessons were they?

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      How about cooking healthy foods - together!

      about 1 year ago
    • Nicole 7 comments
    • First time doing something like this.... just got done taking summer cooking lessons and ready to get some hints on how I can make great food for my family. . to create those wonderful memories I had growing up.
      about 1 year ago
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      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      Hello! and welcome!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Hi to you!

      about 1 year ago
    • Collette Oliver 2 comments
    • Hello everyone!
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
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      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      Thanks...this is going to be so fun!

      about 1 year ago

      onceamonthmom

      So excited for this talk!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Thanks for having us over, so to speak!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      I'm looking forward to learning new tricks and tips!

      about 1 year ago

      Cara

      can't wait to see all the ideas!

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      Looking fwd to it !!!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      This is so fun! Glad we get to chat with you!

      about 1 year ago

      Donna B.

      thanks, I'm looking forward to it.

      about 1 year ago

      Sommer Collier

      Thanks! We're glad to be here. :)

      about 1 year ago
    • Chefdruck 9 comments
    • Rachel, Renee and I would like to welcome you all to our Healthier Meal Makeover class. We're thrilled you are all here!
      about 1 year ago
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      @ArtoftheSpa

      I agree re fun!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      I'm new to this too - very cool!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      Hey sweets! welcome!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      It is fun!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      Welcome we are happy to have you join us!

      about 1 year ago
    • @HowToSimplify 5 comments
    • Hello! It's my first time joining a live chat...how fun!
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
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      Kayla S

      Yep! I've lost 25 in the past few months and I'm hitting a plateau now. I still want to lose, but it's about changing my lifestyle and thinking differently now. I make our food healthier without anyone being the wiser! And I'm starting to train for a half-marathon, so I hope that helps! :)

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Fat was a big issue - I'll start a new thread about cutting back on fat and sugar!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      The point is you don't have to eliminate entire food groups or your favorite foods - making them healthier makes a huge difference!

      about 1 year ago

      Collette Oliver

      Wow! That's incredible! Some of the things that make food unhealthy taste so good. How did your changes accomodate that?

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      5 pounds or 100 pounds - it doesn't matter - it's all difficult! (Unless you're my husband! :)

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      That is so great! I am duly impressed.

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Very impressive!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      WOW! That's great!

      about 1 year ago

      @HowToSimplify

      Wow, that is truly amazing! Congrats!

      about 1 year ago

      Cara

      how awesome!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      That is why I stated too, so I could lose weight! I found that you could make meals GREAT with way lower calories do you wouldn't feel like you were being deprived.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      Kudos to you Julie!

      about 1 year ago

      Kayla S

      So fantastic! I'm so proud of you!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      That is amazing! I remember reading a post you did about your journey a while back. Such an inspiring story.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      that is amazing! congratulations! you'll have lots to share then

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      165?! WOW.

      about 1 year ago

      Erin O

      WOW! Julie, that's amazing!

      about 1 year ago
    • DinnerwithJulie 17 comments
    • I'm all about healthy food makeovers. Making my favorite foods healthier is what helped me lose 165 pounds! http://dinnerwithjulie.com/2010/02/09/results-typical-2/
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
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      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      Bring on the desserts...hehe!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Yeah, like foods during the day - nice idea!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      Sounds good! I'm ready.

      about 1 year ago

      onceamonthmom

      Yum, yum and yum

      about 1 year ago
    • Chefdruck 4 comments
    • Our goal is to provide you with some easy tips to implement in your daily cooking for healthier yet still delicious dishes. We're so grateful to the Motherhood and to Con Agra for putting this class together. We'll be splitting this class into three sections: appetizers, main courses, and desserts.
      about 1 year ago
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      Talk Host

      Chefdruck

      Welcome! So excited that you are here.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      Welcoem blivey!

      about 1 year ago
    • blivey 2 comments
    • My first time also. Very excited!
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
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      @ArtoftheSpa

      I like to saute broccoli in Olive Oil w/low sodium Soy Sauce

      about 1 year ago

      Tiffany

      @DinnerwithJulie - my husband won't eat things like tomatoes, onions, peppers, or other things with similar textures. My son follows his lead. :-\

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      Sounds nice. Must try that. I bet hubby and son would love that. They LOVE broccoli. Thank you!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Jennifer - ditto!! never been to RI!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Tiffany - I feel for ya! Who wants to cook three different meals? what are they picky about? is there anything they all like?

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Roast broccoli!! seriously! with a little olive oil and parmesan cheese - it's addictive!

      about 1 year ago

      Tiffany

      I struggle with coming up with foods that can feed a variety of ages. I have an infant who's just starting with solids, a picky 4-year-old, and a picky husband. I want to make a single meal for the whole family but it's hard when the baby can't be introduced to so much yet. Ideas?

      about 1 year ago

      Jennifer@Savor

      I do - when can you come south to cook with me in RI? Miss you!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      Is there a way to make Broccoli less bitter? Even I don't enjoy eating Broccoli - How can I convince my 5 year old it's healthy for her?

      about 1 year ago
    • DinnerwithJulie 9 comments
    • Who has cooking questions?
      about 1 year ago
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      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      Welcome Alison!

      about 1 year ago
    • Alison 1 comment
    • My first time too! I hope I can keep up !
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
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      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      have you tried kale chips?? so easy and snacky! http://blogs.babble.com/family-kitchen/2010/07/06/its-easy-eating-green-with-kale-chips/

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Here's another - Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls are gluten free, dairy free, almost fat free... fill them with fresh veg, strips of chicken or pork, shrimp, mango, anything you like! Serve with peanut sauce for dipping! http://blogs.babble.com/family-kitchen/2011/02/03/vietnamese-rice-paper-rolls-with-peanut-sauce-2/

      about 1 year ago

      @ArtoftheSpa

      I like to roast asparagus spears and wrap them in Boar's head ham for a cheese free app! They are a fun finger food!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      It's the high fat dips! Romesco dip, based on roasted red peppers and almonds, is my favorite! http://dinnerwithjulie.com/2009/04/21/romesco-dip/

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      Chefdruck

      @1Chef Giving your guests some fun things to play around with their cheese is a great idea: honey, candied fruit, nuts. Gets your guests involved.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      I like to use feta if a cheese is in an app. It has a lot of flavor and is lighter.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      Love roasted pears!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      Chefdruck

      I love to use balsamic vinegar to jazz up veggies for appetizers. Drizzled on some roasted pears... yum.

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      On that cheese plate, add some beautiful fresh fruit and colorful sliced veggies. Then it's not just about the cheese...

      about 1 year ago

      LaurieM

      love the mini egg muffin idea!!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Go to the farmer's market for the most inexpensive and fresh produce and fruits.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      I love using egg beaters, green onions and salt and pepper to make mini egg muffins.. they're always a HUGE hit and super easy to make

      about 1 year ago

      Nicole

      Planning. . grocery shopping healthy . . you buy a ton of produce for it to go bad before you get that far ahead. I need better planning.

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      I like to add extra veggies for color, crunch, and low-calorie-ness!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      @Vanderbilt Wife there are low fat and no fat and low calorie cream cheeses out there. I try to stay away from dairy so I also use cream cheese substitutes.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      LOL -- so -- cheese ;-)

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      I would love some ideas on making appetizers that go beyond the old cheese and crackers. I am a cheeseaholic.

      about 1 year ago

      Vanderbilt Wife

      can there be good appetizers without lots of BACON and CREAM CHEESE?

      about 1 year ago

      Sommer Collier

      Most appetizers I make involve cheese...

      about 1 year ago

      robin

      The need for CHEESE!

      about 1 year ago
    • SouthernFairyt 20 comments
    • So, who has questions about how to make appetizers healthier? What do you find that you struggle the most with?
      about 1 year ago
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      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      here's a lower fat double chocolate chip cookie recipe. Still a cookie, but cutting out 3/4 cup of butter = 132 grams of fat and almost 1200 calories! http://blogs.babble.com/family-kitchen/2010/08/25/low-fat-sweet-treats-for-school-lunches-double-chocolate-chip-cookies/

      about 1 year ago

      @ArtoftheSpa

      Mashed sweet potatoes or canned pumpkin works like the applesauce Erin

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      I add cooked lentils and pureed kidney beans to my cookies! http://dinnerwithjulie.com/2008/10/08/day-282-everything-bagel-cheddar-cheese-and-bean-cookies-in-the-car/

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      You do need to have some fat - I've found that even 1/4 cup of butter in a cookie recipe goes a long way! You need it for flavor and texture.

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      I like to use all whole wheat flour; I'm working to fully eliminate white sugar and white flour from my kitchen entirely

      about 1 year ago

      Stephanie

      Great advice... I need to try the whole wheat flour sub next time too!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      You can usually substitute up to 1/3 of the flour with whole wheat flour.

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      Just a few tablespoons will help with a more tender texture

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      Try adding some oil too. You do need a little fat to help with a good texture.

      about 1 year ago

      Erin O

      I've used applesauce in place of butter in cookies before, with mixed results. It affects the texture a bit - any other suggestions for making them healthier?

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      I love baking and have alternatives to make things healthier and child friendly!

      about 1 year ago
    • Kate Selner 11 comments
    • I love this topic, and I love re-working recipes to be healthier, especially baking recipes. I'm all about healthier cookies, muffins and quickbreads.
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
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      Erin O

      ConAgra also has a great recipe site called Ready Set Eat - http://www.readyseteat.com!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      Thanks, Vanessa

      about 1 year ago
    • Chefdruck 2 comments
    • We'll be sharing some recipes from our blogs as well as some recipes from the Con Agra recipe site (http://www.conagrafoods.com/consumer/recipes/index.jsp) and hopefully will get you all to walk away with some easy to implement healthy changes to your meals. I'm going to hand it off to Rachel now to talk about appetizers.
      about 1 year ago
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      LaurieM

      Yeah Canola! And it supports NA farmers...

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      Chefdruck

      I recently discovered avocado oil. High smoke point, anti oxidants, and fun taste for salads.

      about 1 year ago

      KatieMae

      I used to use grapeseed a LOT but I can't find it at my grocery stores anymore :( Where do you buy it?

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Canola! Little flavour, high smoke point, and lowest in saturated fats. Canola also has omega 3s (11%), which olive oil doesn't have.

      about 1 year ago

      Hollydays

      Olive oil. but more recently Grapeseed oil. Like coconut oil in baking, but not in cooking.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      Ditto on the grapeseed!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      I use grapeseed oil or a good quality olive oil.

      about 1 year ago

      Kayla S

      I use cooking spray for almost everything...haha

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      I use mostly olive. You just need to make sure it's actually OLIVE oil and not some mix...

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      I prefer grapeseed oil, but use olive a lot too

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      You can also use grapeseed oil.

      about 1 year ago

      Jacky

      Grapeseed oil.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      I just use a non stick pan with a very small amount of olive oil or just cooking spray.

      about 1 year ago
    • KatieMae 13 comments
    • Cooking ques: What's your favorite oil for cooking, but that doesn't add too much flavor or has too low of a smoke point?
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      My problem with apps is that they are small so you end up eating a ton without really getting full but then taking in a lot of unexpected calories. Keep it simple, veggies & dip, low fat dip.

      about 1 year ago

      Jacky

      I struggle with apps too!

      about 1 year ago
    • Janice 2 comments
    • I can never think of any hot appetizers that are healthy and yummy.
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      I love that new idea. Perfect for my picky 5 yr old. TY.

      about 1 year ago

      kc

      I need new ideas for fruit and veggies for my 3 year old!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      I put a bunch of healthy snacks in a mini-muffin tin. They get a little of this and little of that. It keeps them happy and they think it's fun. (grapes, pretzels, goldfishes, carrots, dip, etc) Each compartment gets something different!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      My kids love this popcorn trail mix as a snack http://www.goodlifeeats.com/2010/12/popcorn-trail-mix.html

      about 1 year ago
    • Jessica 4 comments
    • child friendly healthy options are great! Thank you all for this wonderful forum
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
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      @ArtoftheSpa

      Yes, I even found an edamame hummus that's lower in cals than reg hummus, though I'm a huge Sabra lemon hummus fan

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      Hummus is one of my favorite snacks. Pair it with pretzels and you're got a yummy and nutritious snack.

      about 1 year ago

      blivey

      Sounds great! I'll have to try it.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      I also doctor up store bought hummus with a squeeze of lemon juice, fresh cracked pepper, oregano, and a drizzle of olive oil.

      about 1 year ago

      Hollydays

      And you can make a variety of flavors when you make it yourself without the preservatives --- black olive, red pepper, rosemary...etc!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      I recently roasted some tiny new potatoes with garlic and sea salt and served them room temperature with a horseradish dip made with lowfat plain Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and black pepper. It was a big hit.

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      Hummus from scratch is pretty simple if you have a food processor

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      Mmmm... everyone seems to like hummus! I've had hummus conversations on Twitter that have got the word trending

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      That's a great tip, Amanda!

      about 1 year ago

      blivey

      Do you make your own hummus?

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      My kids love hummus. And if you can cut the veggies in fun shapes it's even more fun!

      about 1 year ago

      Cara

      I have found that even my 18 month old likes hummus!

      about 1 year ago
    • SouthernFairyt 12 comments
    • Adding veggies with a great hummus dip is a wonderful way to eliminate cheese or add other options
      about 1 year ago
    • X
    • Janice Bissex 0 comments
    • Canola oil has a high smoke point and mild flavor. It's also a good source of heart-healthy omega-3 fats.
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
      X

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      I do the same with spinach and mushrooms. Also makes for a good lunchbox option.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      I love egg white sandwiches with black pepper and a dash of ketchup. My kids LOVE it.

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      You can add in extra bits of left-over veggies and meat as well to clean out the 'fridge!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      Using egg whites becomes second nature once you've cracked them a few hundred times! :-)

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      yum yum @slingmama I do that sometimes, too. LOVE spinach

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      I'm a fan of eggbeaters also!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      we do something similar but add a little spinach and leftover diced ham. YUM!

      about 1 year ago

      Erin O

      Yum. And bite-sized - sounds like they'd make a good appetizer.

      about 1 year ago

      Janice

      Sounds good,

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      egg beaters are great. ANd if you have time you can also just use egg whites - a cheaper but more labor intensive alternative.

      about 1 year ago
    • SouthernFairyt 10 comments
    • I use egg beaters, salt and pepper, green onions to make mini egg muffins -- they are always a huge hit and if you like a little zing, they have a southwestern flavor that is fantastic
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
      X

      Talk Host

      Chefdruck

      I love the freshness of Vietnamese food.

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      I love summer rolls. They are such a perfect light meal or snack

      about 1 year ago

      FoodforMyFamily

      These look fantastic!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Those are light, crunchy and delish!

      about 1 year ago

      Tiffany

      Those look great! My son will probably eat anything that has a dipping sauce.

      about 1 year ago
    • Katie Goodman 5 comments
    • These summer rolls with dipping sauce are one of our favorite appetizers, or in the summer they make a great, light meal http://www.goodlifeeats.com/2009/10/vietnamese-summer-rolls-with-almond-dipping-sauce.html
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      1Chef

      Stretch it a bit further with some fresh chopped strawberries!

      about 1 year ago
    • Nicole 1 comment
    • we have been mixing 2 part cool whip to 1 part strawberry cream cheese great on fruit and bagels mousse like texture
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
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      Silvia

      wow! that looks very yummy. I've never thought about adding beans to my pico de gallo!

      about 1 year ago

      blivey

      That looks like something my family would love!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      bookmarking that, Julie!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Beans are filling, fiber rich and delicious in so many dishes!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Speaking of black beans - I finally made black bean brownies that don't suck! http://dinnerwithjulie.com/2011/01/21/glutenfree-black-bean-brownies-suck/

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      This looks delish!!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      I have a black bean dip that was a hit here too. http://debbidoesdinnerhealthy.blogspot.com/2010/09/avocado-ranch-black-bean-dip.html

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      oh this is good !!!! Shud try it out one day :)

      about 1 year ago

      Cara

      we've been making this for years in my house too! it is a winner and my friends request this for parties too

      about 1 year ago

      Kayla S

      YUM! Totally making this!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      I love anything w/black beans. I think your guac would be a healthy appetizer, too Rachel! :)

      about 1 year ago
    • SouthernFairyt 11 comments
    • This black bean and corn pico de gallo is a huge hit around our house and wherever I take it http://asouthernfairytale.com/2010/12/05/black-bean-and-corn-pico-de-gallo/
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
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      Alison

      My 22 month old loves watching her show! That's great for me.....since I love her recipes!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      She does have some very good ideas! Her portion sizes aren't miniscule either!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      Love the restaurant recipe swaps too.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      Renee, I love her show! I watch it every week with the kids. :)

      about 1 year ago

      Cara

      She had a dip mixed with salsa and low fat cream cheese that looked great and baked chips

      about 1 year ago

      Kayla S

      I get those, too! She has great daily e-mails and a few cook books! I especially love when she does recipe swaps for things you find at a restaurant, like sesame chicken!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Yup, nice recipes!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      I get those, but so many products aren't available in Canada!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      She has also has a show on the Cooking Channel.

      about 1 year ago
    • newyorkchica 9 comments
    • I get email updates from hungry girl. She has some great recipes for low fat recipes that are usually laden with fat.
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
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      Talk Host

      Chefdruck

      This is such a great appetizer for the kids! So excited you shared this Rachel.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      OO Kristen, those look fabulous. I love parmesan

      about 1 year ago

      Silvia

      oh!! I'm all over that! thanks for sharing

      about 1 year ago

      Stephanie

      This is fantastic! Thanks for sharing... Hoping my 2 year old will likes this and I can use as a side since he's boycotting pretty much everything but crackers - I might be able to slide this in and get him to eat it!

      about 1 year ago

      Kristen Doyle

      I love sweet potato chips! Gaby from What's Gaby cooking had an interesting take on sweet potato chips just yesterday: http://whatsgabycooking.com/sweet-potato-and-parmesan-chips/

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      My little one loves potato in any form , size and shape :)

      about 1 year ago
    • SouthernFairyt 6 comments
    • If you feel the desire for the crunch @twopeasandpod has an amazing recipe for baked sweet potato chips http://twopeasandtheirpod.com/baked-potato-and-sweet-potato-chips/
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Jacky

      It is so good, just wish I was better and peeling and cutting :)

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      Chefdruck

      Jacky, I am addicted to butternut squash. I roast some every week and just have it in the fridge to throw in to soups, sautees and salads. So sweet yet so good.

      about 1 year ago

      Vanderbilt Wife

      Mmmm. I love butternut squash! These butternut squash wontons are also delicious and healthified by Cooking Light: http://bit.ly/c74VyH

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Oooh, love it!!

      about 1 year ago
    • Jacky 4 comments
    • Butternut squash bruschetta is good appetizer option http://bit.ly/eIygBO
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
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      Brandie

      We've done zucchini pasta. So so so good! You'd never guess in a million years it was zucchini you were eating!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      That sounds really good...now we just have to wait for zucchini to be in season!

      about 1 year ago

      Kayla S

      I LOVE zucchini! I usually saute it in a pan with some garlic and onion powder, basil, tomato and oregano and mix it with diced tomatoes or pasta sauce! It's delicious, low cal and so filling!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      Chefdruck

      Great idea! What a fun way to use zucchini and vary up the veggies.

      about 1 year ago

      Sommer Collier

      That sounds fantastic!

      about 1 year ago

      Tiffany

      We eat a lot of zucchini here - I would never have considered using them for that!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      Sounds delicious!

      about 1 year ago
    • Katie Goodman 7 comments
    • Another fun warmer weather app (or light meal) are these zucchini nachos. Lots of veggies with that great nacho taste http://www.goodlifeeats.com/2009/08/zucchini-nachos.html
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Brandie

      My kids LOVE these!!! We also do similar on tortilla and the oven top. They call those pizzatillas! =)

      about 1 year ago

      Alison

      I bet those 100 calorie sandwich thins would work great too! I bought some turkey pepperoni the other day with the intention of making mini pizzas.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      Never made those. I have to try that one day. Sounds so good.

      about 1 year ago

      Kayla S

      We use portobello mushrooms as a "crust" and then assemble the pizza toppings and either put them in the oven or on the grill! It is SO GOOD!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Everyone can ad their fave vegies and you can go light on the cheese!

      about 1 year ago

      Stephanie

      We used to do this often, and they were a great quick lunch sometimes! never added veggies so I will have to try that

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      Bagels and English Muffins are super fun for the kiddos though!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      Whole wheat tortilla are my favorite for making pizzas!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      You can grill pizza topped with lots of veggies too. It's a little more time consuming but the flavor is amazing!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      I like using whole wheat pitas - thin and crisp! and I use pure tomato paste instead of sauce - it's mellow and sweet!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      Great idea! We use bagels, but I love the English Muffin idea!

      about 1 year ago
    • Erin O 11 comments
    • One way to make healthier pizza is to use whole wheat English muffins to make mini-pizzas. As a bonus, they're easy to make! Put the English muffin halves on a baking sheet, spoon pizza sauce onto them, top with shredded mozzarella and toppings of your choice, and bake at 350 degrees for 12-15 minutes.
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
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      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      YES, Katie! I like to use guacamole or sliced avocado with roasted red pepper strips on my wraps and sandwiches

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      I love guacamole (and avocado too). It's a great healthy substitute for mayo on sandwiches or in wraps.

      about 1 year ago

      blivey

      I'm getting so many great new recipe ideas, I don't know which one I want to try first!

      about 1 year ago

      Janice Bissex

      Guacamole is my favorite appetizer. I'm sticking with avocado!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      I've also heard of using some pureed fresh peas in guacamole.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      yum! what a great idea!

      about 1 year ago

      Jacky

      I also love using pureed cooked asparagus in place of some of the avocado.

      about 1 year ago
    • SouthernFairyt 7 comments
    • Thanks for the reminder, Amanda! This guacamole is delicious and healthy and has a surprise ingredient http://asouthernfairytale.com/2011/02/06/g-is-for-guacamole/
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
      X

      Brandie

      Homemade tortilla chips ... can you share a recipe or link?

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      Chili's makes a great spinach dip I thought I wouldn't like. I should really try making it myself. Sounds yummy.

      about 1 year ago

      ginab

      That looks great, veggie strips AND tortillas would mean I would eat less tortillas!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      we always use veggie strips -- my kids prefer them to chips! ;-)

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      When we have potlucks we use vegiie strips - primarily for the kids :)

      about 1 year ago

      Alison

      sounds delicious!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      This is yummy! How 'bout veggie strips for dippers, too?

      about 1 year ago
    • Debbi 7 comments
    • Spinach, aritchoke and cheese dip is a great healthy appetizer. I've eaten WAY too much and not felt guilty at all, especially with homemade tortilla chips!

      http://debbidoesdinnerhealthy.blogspot.com/2009/11/spinach-artichoke-cheese-dip-and.html
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
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      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      Pizza is perfect! I love it b/c you can cut it into teeny tiny pieces and it's a perfect appetizer! Sometimes appetizers are all in the presentation! :)

      about 1 year ago
    • Katie Goodman 1 comment
    • Since someone mentioned pizza, we recently made this vegetarian mexican pizza http://www.goodlifeeats.com/2011/01/black-bean-mexican-pizza.html lots of vegetables on it and I made a light whole wheat crust
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      robin

      Thanks! Just enjoying reading your ideas...

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      It's happened to me, too, Robin

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      Happens Robin , happened last week too ....too many people posting at the same time :)

      about 1 year ago

      Erin O

      Sorry about that, robin! Sometimes when there is a surge in traffic, the comments are slow. We'll contact our tech people.

      about 1 year ago
    • robin 4 comments
    • Quickie tech question, can't seem to get my comments to post. They just lock up. When I hit refresh they disappear. Is my computer too slow to keep up with all the great chatting? Didn't know if any other moms were frustrated like me. Such great insights. Love all this...thanks!
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
      X

      Brandie

      Speaking of gun,. I just got a sample of aspartame free gum which made my little heart go pitter patter (we avoid aspartame in this house as much as possible. Because I don't trust it). If you are interested ... it's pur gum (http://pur-gum.com/)

      about 1 year ago

      @ArtoftheSpa

      Altoids are a good one for me or Tea Forte African Solstice its one of their desert teas w/ honey and milk OMG so decadent!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      Chefdruck

      I snack on grapes and nuts while cooking. Just having something on hand helps! Skim milk also fills me up when water doesn't do the trick.

      about 1 year ago

      Alison

      I don't snack while cooking...it's the rest of the day I have a problem with!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Make a pitcher of water and add sliced peeled cukes and some fresh fruit. Have some raw veggies and fruit. If you are truly hungry, the veggies will taste good. If not, maybe you're bored or upset, etc.

      about 1 year ago

      robin

      When I do cook, I drink wine which I can say does NOT help me eat less. :(

      about 1 year ago

      KatieMae

      I like a liitle low-fat cheese to hold me over until dinner is ready.

      about 1 year ago

      Kayla S

      I try to just remind myself how delicious the dinner is going to be and how much more I'll enjoy it if I don't eat before! Water is a good trick, too!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      I drink coffee or tea while I cook. I also keep a small bowl of raw, unsalted almonds on the counter to crunch on something.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      I'm w/Heather--water! If I'm really needing something, I might do a small cup of juice. (Right now I'm sipping OJ!)

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      I dunno.. water just doesn't do it for me!

      about 1 year ago

      Nicole

      I heard especially with sweets to brush your teeth. . toothpaste and sweet normally clashes

      about 1 year ago

      Tiffany

      Heh, I'm with you on that. I end up eating my dinner while cooking. :-\

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      For every time you think you want to put something in your mouth, try drinking a glass of ice water instead, or just cold water. I find it takes the edge off hunger.

      about 1 year ago

      notdiyheather

      I keep a glass of water close by while I'm cooking. I take a sip instead of a bite

      about 1 year ago

      Cara

      gum has been a lifesaver for me for years!

      about 1 year ago
    • DinnerwithJulie 16 comments
    • Does anyone have any tips for keeping snacking at bay? I chew gum in the kitchen while I'm cooking - keeps me from nibbling!
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      Kate - I recently found frozen artichoke hearts at trader joe's. They are great for snacking on, in salads, pasta dishes or on sandwiches. Way less work than fresh and healthier than canned or marinated.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      I'm impressed the kids love them so much! I've only had them out of a can!

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      I sure do love artichokes but sometimes get frustrated over all the work for so little. The heart is where it's at though. I could eat those, fresh and dipped in herb butter until I pass out.

      about 1 year ago

      Kristen Doyle

      We love steamed artichokes around here too... such a fun thing for them to experiment eating!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Good for you - a true eating experience!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      artichokes are one of my favorites!

      about 1 year ago
    • Sommer Collier 6 comments
    • My kids love to eat steamed artichokes with aioli...

      http://aspicyperspective.com/2011/01/defining-healthy.html
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
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      Brandie

      When we go to someone's house I always offer to bring a veggie or a fruit tray. I'm surprised how many people don't have that out. So I offer knowing there will be something healthy to snack on!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Also eat a little protein - like hard-boiled egg whites- before you go to a party.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      @Debbi...salty/sweet things are my downfall too.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      That really helps in restaurants too. Mexican places are my weakness with all the free chips and salsa. Drinking lots of water helps fill me up so I don't over eat.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      Julie, I totally get that! ;-) I find that when i eat healthier before hand, I tend to feel yucky if I add greasy on top of it.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      I find it's easier to not start than it is to stop!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      I try to stay away from the salty sweet ones, it just makes me crave more!

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      This is a gud idea :)

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      I really think snacking on greasy/sweet foods often has little to do with actual hunger - for me, anyway! It's good advice, but raw veg and water don't satisfy my cravings for sweet/salty/crunchy/chewy!

      about 1 year ago

      robin

      Water really helps!

      about 1 year ago
    • SouthernFairyt 10 comments
    • If you're going somewhere where you feel the appetizers might be too tempting -- eat some raw veggies and drink water before you go, you'll be much less tempted to snack on greasy heavy foods when you have accomplished eating healthier before hand.
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
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      Kayla S

      You can also take a container of fat free cool whip and add a packet of vanilla pudding mix to it. Just stir it together and dip your fruit! So yummy! Pistachio pudding mix works too!

      about 1 year ago

      Cara

      love this idea of pina colada!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Fresh fruit is so pretty to serve!

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      My favorite fruit dip is whipped light cream cheese mixed with brown sugar, a little vanilla extract, the juice and zest of one lime. It's outstanding with fresh strawberries, and even better with grapes.

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      This sounds yumm!!!

      about 1 year ago
    • Debbi 5 comments
    • Fruit dip is usually pretty easy with yogurt. Here's a great one for your next Luau!
      http://debbidoesdinnerhealthy.blogspot.com/2010/07/fruit-with-pina-colada-dip.html
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
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      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      I'm definitely going to try that!

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      Yogi Mayan Coco tea is pretty delicious too. Like dessert in a cup

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      Shud agree with Amanda... sounds divine :)

      about 1 year ago

      FoodforMyFamily

      Yum! Great "snack" for when you want one but don't really need one.

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Chocolate is a wonderful flavor!

      about 1 year ago

      Sommer Collier

      I have some chocolate mint tea that makes you feel like you're being really naughty! ;)

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      I don't even know what that is and it sounds divine!

      about 1 year ago
    • DinnerwithJulie 7 comments
    • Belgian chocolate rooibos tea often makes me feel like I'm having something chocolatey (which I suppose I am), for no calories!http://tnik.com/rb_belgian_chocolate.html
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      1Chef

      Yummy - use sliced veggies for dippers.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      That sounds delicious! I love spinach artichoke dip

      about 1 year ago

      Mommiecooks

      that should say delicious. (hit return to soon)

      about 1 year ago

      Mommiecooks

      Love spinach artichoke dip Charissa! Your healthy version sounds !

      about 1 year ago
    • Charissa 4 comments
    • I do a spinach artichoke dip with light mayo and reduced fat monz and parm - you get lots of volume from the veggies and you can dip with whole wheat pita chips/bread
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
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      1Chef

      OK!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      @Nicole - I use fresh or frozen raspberries and add it to a no sugar lemonade mix -- everyone loves it!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      yes yes!

      about 1 year ago

      Nicole

      what about alternatives to soda what about some beverage recommendations that are easy and cheap to make

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      Bring it! I drool over the meals you post on Facebook.

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      Yes !!!!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      I'm already so hungry it doesn't matter where we go! ;)

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      I am!

      about 1 year ago
    • ReneeJRoss 8 comments
    • Are you ready to talk about healthy entrees?
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
      X

      1Chef

      Super ideas!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      And here's a chewy fruit & oat granola bar from the White House Executive Pastry Chef! http://blogs.babble.com/family-kitchen/2010/09/02/white-house-fruit-and-oat-granola-bars/

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Here's one of my favorite chewy granola bar recipes - totally customizable! http://blogs.babble.com/family-kitchen/2011/01/10/chewy-walnut-granol-bars/

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Oh oh oh!! Homemade Raincoast Crisps!! http://dinnerwithjulie.com/2009/01/27/rosemary-raisin-pecan-crisps/

      about 1 year ago

      Brandie

      I have the King Arthur Flour Whole Grain Baking and it has a recipe for crackers and wheat thin knock offs. I've never tried it though - has anyone else?

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      Oh, just saw yours too Katie! Yum!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      Here's a recipe for granola bars: http://onceamonthmom.com/diet-oamm-nutrient-packed-breakfast-bars-healthy-recipe/

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      I love cooking with formulas....the only limit is my imagination!

      about 1 year ago

      Tiffany

      Oops! "Fast food items" - not fast food. :)

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      Totally just STARRED that, Katie!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      Here are my gingerbread inspired granola bars http://www.goodlifeeats.com/2011/01/molasses-and-ginger-granola-bars.html plus a 5 step formula to come up with your own flavor combinations for endless possibilities

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      I was going to say the same thing, Julie! I'd love to know how to do some actual crackers or something like it!

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      Have to agree !!!! My hubby travels and i make granola bars for him to munch on :)...something to remind him of home too !!!

      about 1 year ago

      Tiffany

      Those fish fillet sandwiches you get at places like McRestaurant.

      about 1 year ago

      Erin O

      Granola bars!

      about 1 year ago
    • DinnerwithJulie 15 comments
    • I think making food from scratch always beats buying prepared foods - are there any snacky, fast food items anyone wants to know how to make from scratch?
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
      X

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      so it sounds like it works like applesauce? interesting...I will have to give it a try!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      Glad it's a winner. I also got that idea from Hungry Girl ;)

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      Love it too, super simple. The kids don't miss the oil and stuff at all.

      about 1 year ago

      Alison

      that's one of my favorite diet desserts! I love using spice cake mix too!

      about 1 year ago

      robin

      I will absolutely try this...wow!

      about 1 year ago

      @ArtoftheSpa

      YES, sweet potatoes work too

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      I've done it, too! YUM.

      about 1 year ago

      Kayla S

      You're right! I've had this before and it's SO good! Love recipes that use pumpkin!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      Yes! It's very yummy!

      about 1 year ago

      Erin O

      Yes! I've done this, and it's yummy, easy and guilt-free. Great suggestion.

      about 1 year ago
    • newyorkchica 10 comments
    • Has anyone tried making boxed chocolate cake with canned pumpkin? It's easy, rich and so good. http://newyorkchica.com/2010/10/easy-recipe-easiest-low-fat-chocolate-cake/
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      This sounds yummy. I love rice.

      about 1 year ago

      ginab

      Those are so different, would be a hit!!!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Here's another - Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls are gluten free, dairy free, almost fat free... fill them with fresh veg, strips of chicken or pork, shrimp, mango, anything you like! Serve with peanut sauce for dipping! http://blogs.babble.com/family-kitchen/2011/02/03/vietnamese-rice-paper-rolls-with-peanut-sauce-2/

      about 1 year ago
    • ginab 3 comments
    • I am hosting my card group next month and love all these ideas for healthy quick appetizers that would stand in for a meal!
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
      X

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      Love that idea. Thx Renee

      about 1 year ago

      robin

      neat idea!

      about 1 year ago

      Hollydays

      Love the idea of the divided plate! We use those (from WM) for my girls, but didn't think about the division of food that way...it's usually the other way - entree in the big part...

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      .lve that. we use divided plates for the kids and we use smaller plates for us -- lots of color and fresh with a nice proten

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      Here it is: a plate to teach kids how to "load" their plate http://www.healthykidsplate.com/

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      Using a smaller plate works well. I also will fill it with as many veggies as possible.

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Right on the division of the plate. When I pack a lunch for work, I use a divided covered plate and do the same thing. Most of my lunch consists of veggies.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      Great idea, Renee. Have you seen the kids plates that are divided like that? I'm going to find the link in a sec..

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      woot!! ::fist pump::

      about 1 year ago

      Alison

      i need to lose 60 lbs., I'm interested in learning more.

      about 1 year ago

      Cara

      oh wow never heard of this idea

      about 1 year ago

      Stephanie

      I never even thought about that... we've just been using smaller plates, but this would certainly make me feel fuller with better food to boot!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      Kate that is right! Fill half that plate with veggies and the do a quarter each of starch and protein!

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      Bringing down ur Carb Intake helps a lot !!!!

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      Veggies on top half, bottom is divided in two, with meat and starch. (did i get it right?)

      about 1 year ago

      Erin O

      Interesting idea. I usually just throw the food on the plate without thinking about it.

      about 1 year ago

      KatieMae

      Listening...

      about 1 year ago
    • ReneeJRoss 17 comments
    • Over the last year I've lost about 50 pounds and one of the things that has helped me is the organization of the food on my plate. Do you know the best way to do this?
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Brandie

      Ummm Robin, I wasn't cooking. I was sleeping. :X I know. It's so late, but we were out super late and the younger kids were with grandma, so slept I did! ROFL!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      Glad you could make it! You're able to go back and read everything after too!

      about 1 year ago

      robin

      I bet you were busy cooking healthy...

      about 1 year ago

      robin

      Hi! :)

      about 1 year ago
    • Brandie 4 comments
    • Whew .. I'm late but I made it!!!
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Brandie

      Agave syrup has a mixed reputation. I do use, but not as often as I might where the consensus on it that it is a healthy replacement.

      about 1 year ago

      Charissa

      They even have agave nectar at my super Walmart.

      about 1 year ago

      Brandie

      I've tried so hard to replace my love of soda with tea. I just haven't found one I like. And I've tried a lot. I think flavored sparkling water is a good alternative. And dressing up water with lemon or cucumber in it.
      But, I reach for soda more often then I should. Sigh.

      about 1 year ago

      Hollydays

      I'm a big fan of tea and try to keep it around the house all the time - otherwise I end up drinking nothing.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      Lemonade! We juice the lemons from our tree and make lemonade all year!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      Trader Joe's has agave nectar too. Iced herbal tea with some mint and lemon is great too.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      Agave is so good. My favorite flavor is the maple syrup. After tasting that, the fake maple syrup tastes disgusting. (my kids don't like "real" male syrup - I'm trying)

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      Zevia is a natural soda that my aunt drinks. We also like flavored sparkling waters or Sparkling fruit juices. My kids think that is soda. Hansen's is also great - natural sodas and flavored sparkling waters.

      about 1 year ago

      Jacky

      Seltzer in our house too. Or water with fruit or cucumber slices.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      I'm a big fan of just water. Try brightening it up with some lemon or orange juice.

      about 1 year ago

      Nicole

      do you have to get agave nectar at a specialty store I couldn't find it at my regular one.

      about 1 year ago

      Erin O

      Is Clearly Canadian water still around? Flavored sparkling water. I used to drink the cherry one ALL the time!

      about 1 year ago

      Mommiecooks

      Club soda with a little juice could work as a sub for soda.

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Add a little fruit juice to water to make it have a little zing.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      We don't even have soda in the house. My sons get some sparkling mineral water mixed with a little lemonade or juice as a treat.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      Tea is always a good alternative. You can make iced tea and sweeten it with honey or agave nectar.

      about 1 year ago
    • Nicole 16 comments
    • what about alternatives to soda what about some beverage recommendations that are easy and cheap to make
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Brandie

      Vanderbilt Wife, me too! In fact, I almost never buy the low-fat version of items because when they take the fat out of processed foods, it's often sugar or other things they put in. You lose either way in my opinion.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      When I talk about reducing fat it's more from a weight loss perspective - we all need healthy fats in our diets, but fat contains more than twice the calories of protein or carbohydrate, so nutrient dense foods like nuts and seeds that are also high in fat are also high in calories!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      I agree - healthier fats, complex carbs (whole grains, fruit and veg) over simple sugars, whole foods!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      Chefdruck

      I love this discussion. I agree with all of you. To me, healthy is homemade, fresh food that's been lovingly prepared. We need fat and salt, but we just need to be aware of what we're putting in our mouths.

      about 1 year ago

      Nicole

      is it more cost effective to do pick your own farms or to do a farmers market or to hit a local store. .

      about 1 year ago

      notdiyheather

      I agree. For me, less processed = a healthier option.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      I think "healthy" means nutritious (in terms of fat content, sodium, etc.) as well as local, organic, fresh, in season.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      I think healthy has a different meaning for everyone. For me it's fresher foods, less processed

      about 1 year ago

      KatieMae

      I define it as using whole foods and especially being prepared at home.

      about 1 year ago

      kc

      I like that idea too. More whole foods is whatI want to focus more on. But its hard becuase I don't cook alot.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      Me, too Jessie. I hardly even buy from the grocery store anymore b/c I'm trying to buy from our local farmers, etc. It's definitely an experience in cooking and eating. More WHOLE foods and less processed.

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      Low fat isn't necessarily healthy either. Our bodies, brains, nerves and bones need fat to survive. Problem is, we often eat too much, or the wrong kinds of fat.

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      I am more into organic !!!!! And i consider that healthy :)

      about 1 year ago

      Janice Bissex

      Amen! Low fat is not the same as healthy!!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      I view healthy as more CLEAN food and less processed junk. Organic certainly plays a role in that.
      I so use SOME low fat items but I still attempt to eat as clean as possible.

      about 1 year ago
    • Vanderbilt Wife 15 comments
    • I'm just wondering how we are defining healthy? For me healthy is not necessarily low-fat. I lean more toward local, organic, etc, as being truly healthy.
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
      X

      Vanderbilt Wife

      Brandie that is hard! I am on no dairy right now because of breastfeeding my son, and it is HARD to find recipes some days!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      To save time, prep your veggies when you come home from the market. Also cook once, and eat twice (or even more)!

      about 1 year ago

      Hollydays

      Made a commitment last year to get started on healthier cooking - both for the adults and kids...it's all baby steps for us. Just adding in more fresh fruits and veggies helps a lot for us.

      about 1 year ago

      Brandie

      Time, getting into ruts, a daughter with food issues so we can't use 90% of the great recipes I come across. :(

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      blivey - where do you live?

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      I get into a rut sometimes, which is why chats like this inspire me to try new things...as soon as I recover from this flu.

      about 1 year ago

      blivey

      I have trouble finding good fresh produce

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      Time is definitely the issue. That's why I love freezer and batch cooking. @onceamonthmom has a great site w/healthy foods to cook ahead of time. http://onceamonthmom.com/diet/

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      Nothing anymore. I MAKE time. It is THAT important to me.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      When I get hungry, it's easier to give in!

      about 1 year ago

      Sommer Collier

      I've got several great low-carb recipes listed here:

      http://aspicyperspective.com/2011/02/chicken-chorizo-no-potato-hash.html

      Zucchini Chorizo Hash, Seared Scallops, Tortilla Soup...

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      Chefdruck

      Great tip Renee on Ready Set Eat. Sometimes all we need is inspiration.

      about 1 year ago

      Vanderbilt Wife

      I plan for dinners but rarely for other meals, so I feel that sometimes for lunch and breakfast we are less healthy. If I am on the go sometimes I get ravenous and then end up in the drive-thru.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      I have to agree - time.

      about 1 year ago

      Tiffany

      Checking it out now...

      about 1 year ago

      Mommiecooks

      And I would think that sometimes what you know is easier than trying to learn to change your eating habits.

      about 1 year ago

      KatieMae

      A child w/ sensory issues who refuses entire categories of foods. (He gets occ therapy, but it is slow-going)

      about 1 year ago

      Nicole

      time. .

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      Sometimes i am just bored with cooking that i tend to skip on " healthy " :(

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      Did you know that on ReadySetEat.com you can make healthier meals that take 30 minutes or less?

      about 1 year ago

      Stephanie

      definitely time!

      about 1 year ago

      Cara

      time!

      about 1 year ago
    • ReneeJRoss 22 comments
    • I'd like to know what is keeping you from making "healthy" meals?
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
      X

      1Chef

      This is wonderful!

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      Thanks !!!!

      about 1 year ago
    • ReneeJRoss 2 comments
    • Did you know that there is an entire section of ReadySetEat.com that is dedicated to healthy meals? You can also do a search for your favorite recipes and check the healthy option!
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Erin O

      Lisa - I simmered my quinoa in chicken broth to give it a little flavor. I don't think it tastes like rice, and it has a different (more interesting, in my opinion) texture.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      I have a question: Does it tastes like rice? I've never had it before.

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      I even got my teenager to eat quinoa recently. He said it was really good but had a strange texture. I was so impressed, even because he said he would eat it again.

      about 1 year ago

      Erin O

      Yum, quinoa! I just made some for the first time a few weeks ago. Tasty and healthy.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      OMG I love quinoa! It's a staple in our house.

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      I substitute Qunioa for Rice !!! More healthier !!!!

      about 1 year ago
    • Kate Selner 6 comments
    • This is one of my favorite healhy options for dinner. Very quick and easy.

      http://kateinthekitchen.com/2008/04/21/mexican-quinoa-makes-it-a-wrap/
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Hollydays

      We make zucchini bread to get some veggies in!

      about 1 year ago

      Vanderbilt Wife

      I do the grated carrots a lot! My daughter will not touch a vegetable so I definitely need to incorporate more sneaky chef moves.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      That's a great idea. I'll have to remember that one. My teen son eats anything and everything - my girls are the picky ones.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      I like to sneak in some pureed carrots into my spaghetti sauce.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      My daughter thinks its so fun to add veggies to meatloaf or meatballs. She loves keeping the secret from her dad!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      There are lots of veggies you can chop, cook, and add into family favorites. I won't tell the kids if you won't!

      about 1 year ago

      Mommiecooks

      We like to sub spinach for lettuce a lot as well.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      Love these tips! You are the "sneaky chef"

      about 1 year ago
    • Jacky 8 comments
    • Need more vegetables in your meals for kids? For taco night, mix canned pumpkin in with browned ground turkey. Add in shredded carrots to tomato sauce on pizza or pasta, moisten meatloaf with shredded zucchini. Works in out house!
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Hollydays

      ohamanda - I added that one to my list of recipes to try soon!
      Too bad my slow cooker is actually a fast cooker...most food is done in half the time (and that's cooking on low)

      about 1 year ago

      Marie

      That sounds good!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      One of my fave slow cooker recipes is a black bean/chicken mix that is perfect for tacos, over rice, nachos, etc. You can do ANYTHING with it! http://stolenmomentscooking.com/mexican-chicken-black-bean-filling/

      about 1 year ago

      notdiyheather

      I have 3 slow cookers too!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      Um...is it bad that I have 3 of them?

      about 1 year ago

      Stephanie

      always looking for a good slow cooker meal!

      about 1 year ago

      Mommiecooks

      Great recipe! I'm definitely a fan of the slow cooker.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      Yay for the slow cooker! I would DIE without it!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      I need to get a new slow cooker, mine went kaput

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      Slow cookers are awesome!

      about 1 year ago
    • notdiyheather 10 comments
    • I love using my slow cooker to make healthy meals. Here's what I'm making today http://onpansandkneadles.blogspot.com/2011/02/savory-slow-cooker-chicken.html
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Collette Oliver

      I'm with you, Cara. I need to take the plunge and bring my familly with me. The stores in my area don't carry hummus or quinoa, so it's easy to do with out, but I need to put forth the effort for the overall health of the family.

      about 1 year ago

      Cara

      I keep seeing recipes with quinoa but am scared to try it! I guess I need to take the plunge!

      about 1 year ago
    • Kate Selner 2 comments
    • This is another really delicious option; not as quick, but delicious and warming for the rest of the winter ahead

      http://kateinthekitchen.com/2009/11/13/andean-bean-stew-with-squash-and-quinoa/
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
      X

      Janice Bissex

      Yes, we add canned beans to tacos and some casseroles and soups as well. Love the convenience.

      about 1 year ago
    • Debbi 1 comment
    • Adding black beans, kidney beans, chickpeas or any beans is a great healthy way to cut back on meat.
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Janice Bissex

      Great resource. Thanks!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      Once a month mom, rocks! I just posted a recipe of hers today. Freezer cooking is essential to me. Saves so much time.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      This is one of my faves, Jessie. Freezer cooking has literally changed my life.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      I love Once a Month Mom -- she's awesome and her site is so helpful

      about 1 year ago

      Stephanie

      I think you just made my day!

      about 1 year ago
    • Vanderbilt Wife 5 comments
    • Cooking ahead and freezing really helps me stay healthier. Here's a whole month menu I worked on with Once a Month Mom for freezer cooking: http://bit.ly/i49eK9
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      Oh, yes, yogurt is a great suggestion!

      about 1 year ago

      Vanderbilt Wife

      i have done hummus on sandwiches instead of mayo. even better!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      I'm a big fan of yogurt. I don't usually do Tuna but there are a lot of chicken salads that i make with yogurt!

      http://debbidoesdinnerhealthy.blogspot.com/2010/03/sweet-chunky-chicken-salad.html

      about 1 year ago

      kc

      Wow great topic... I just finished a tuna sandwhich.. with light mayo. I really need to try an alternative!

      about 1 year ago

      Lee Ann K

      what about fat free yogurt instead of all the mayo?

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      low-fat sour cream can replace mayo very easily as a spread. You can even add some spices to it to make it "gourmet"

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      I love this garlicky red pepper spread on sandwiches! http://dinnerwithjulie.com/2009/04/21/romesco-dip/

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      My fave is just the TINIEST bit of mayo and lemon juice, shredded carrots and freshly ground pepper. OMG. The best.

      about 1 year ago

      Kayla S

      I make tuna salad with the tuna, a hard boiled egg, pickles, salt, pepper and mix it all with SALSA! So delicious!

      about 1 year ago

      Alison

      how about hummus? Or a low fat or fat free salad dressing?

      about 1 year ago

      notdiyheather

      I made mine today w/ one wedge of light laughing cow cheese and 1 Tbsp non-fat plan yogurt, plus onion and garlic for flavor. Very tasty!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      I use just a teensy bit of mayo in my tuna and add spicy mustard, celery, pickles and carrots

      about 1 year ago

      robin

      mustard is kind of yummy, I think

      about 1 year ago

      Nicole

      I am the type to load it with mayo

      about 1 year ago
    • Nicole 14 comments
    • What spread can you put on a tuna sandwhich other than mircle whip or mayo that will taste good but not have all the fat.
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
      X

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      Love vanilla and cinnamon. I even add cinnamon to my coffee, teas and milk.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      Great reminder! herbs and spices can more than make up for it. i also almost always use 1/2 and 1/2 instead of cream in recipes.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      Chefdruck

      Amanda, that's a great trick. Cinnamon and vanilla goes a long way with kids and adults!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      Me, too!!!!!!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      Good call, Debbi! Same w/sweet--add vanilla or cinnamon to trick your tastebuds into thinking sweet!

      about 1 year ago

      Erin O

      Good suggestion!!!

      about 1 year ago
    • Debbi 6 comments
    • Flavor not fat. I'm a fan of reaching into the spice cupboard instead of adding oils or creams to meals. Cumin, chili powder, chipotle and garlic are some of my favorites!
      about 1 year ago
    • X
    • onceamonthmom 0 comments
    • If you are looking to portion control, save time and have dinner available instead of falling off the "wagon" you might consider freezing your meals so that you have options - Christine does a great job of creating diet/healthy monthly freezer meals over at Once A Month Mom - http://onceamonthmom.com/diet/menus/
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
      X

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      I need all the help I can get. My 5 yr old is the worse! If it's green, red, orange or yellow she won't eat unless it's sweet. Love the fruits.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      I've used carrots, pumpkin, spinach, zucchini is also a favorite.

      about 1 year ago

      kc

      Ooh Great Idea!! What sort of veggies have you done?

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      I am so lucky to not have picky eaters!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      I love hiding food into other dishes as well.

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      That's right - add a bit of a new food to an old favorite!

      about 1 year ago
    • ReneeJRoss 6 comments
    • I know some folks have picky eaters. My son is one of them. I add veggies or fruit to muffins and my son eats them up! Mango http://cutiebootycakes.blogspot.com/2010/03/mango-muffins.html
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
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      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      I eat meatless meals sometimes but my hubby MUST have meat - either chicken, pork. He's a tough one when it comes to that.

      about 1 year ago

      FoodforMyFamily

      As a former vegetarian, we definitely eat that way more often than not. If I look at all our meals, not just dinner, we're probably about 80/20.

      about 1 year ago

      Brandie

      We have many a meat free night here. But we also enjoy our meat too! If I had to classify us I'd say "flexitarian" in that we eat meat, but often use less than a recipe calls for if I can.

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      We are about 60/40 with vegetarian meals. I try to make as little meat as possible but often get a glum teenager at the table if I do. And that boy needs to EAT. I'm amazed at what he burns through

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      We are meat eaters here too! Hubby would not last long if there wasn't meat on his plate!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      We east fish and chicken bit mostly vegetarian. My sons love tofu in a veggie stir fry.

      about 1 year ago

      blivey

      We are "meat eaters" but also like vegetarian meals. Especially, during the summer with the abundance of fresh produce.

      about 1 year ago

      robin

      Yes! I was veggie for about 16 years...so easy to do these days.

      about 1 year ago

      Jacky

      We eat very little meat, great recipe for Mexican Monday in our house.

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      I make it vegetarian all days ecxept on the weekends !!!! And of course we include eggs as and when we can !!!! Also makes my lil one eat veggies citing that Mom and dad eat it too :)

      about 1 year ago
    • Katie Goodman 10 comments
    • Do you eat vegetarian on a regular basis even if you are a meat eater? We do! I feel like it helps cut the grocery costs and keeps us eating healthy as we load up on vegetables. One of our favorites: Portabella Mushroom Fajitas (plus 5 tips for turning family favorite main dish into vegetarian compatible) http://www.goodlifeeats.com/2011/01/portabella-mushroom-fajitas.html
      about 1 year ago
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      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      I was hoping someone would post a dessert recipe using balck beans! I've been meaning to try that for quiet a while.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      These black bean brownies are amazingly good - they use an entire large can of black beans, and no flour! the boys love them and have no idea! http://blogs.babble.com/family-kitchen/2011/01/21/gluten-freeblack-bean-brownies/

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      We eat lots of lentils and cannellini beans. Being Indian, dal is a staple.

      about 1 year ago

      Brandie

      We do a lentil and black-eyed pea soup. My kids especially love it when I cook with black eyed peas and will often blast music from the band Black Eyed Peas while I'm cooking LOL!

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      The tiny french green lentils are one staple I keep all the time. They cook up so quickly, they hold their shape and taste delicious.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      we love black beans with low fat cheese and grilled chicken and spinach on whole wheat wraps

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      We use lentils on almost a daily basis and beans too !!!! Shud say its rather a part of our staple diet :)

      about 1 year ago

      Mommiecooks

      We eat beans in everything. Love them! Here's a staple soup in our house. Loaded with healthy goodness! http://www.mommiecooks.com/2010/12/01/minestrone/

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      I love cooking black beans with onions and peppers, add a can of fire roasted tomatoes and let it simmer a little, then serve it over brown rice. Everyone loves it, including the teen.

      about 1 year ago

      Lee Ann K

      My husband wont eat beans so I use lentil instead. In chili's or salads.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Here's one to get you started - quinoa salad with black beans and mango! http://dinnerwithjulie.com/2010/03/29/curried-quinoa-salad-mango/

      about 1 year ago
    • DinnerwithJulie 11 comments
    • Cooking with beans (legumes) is an easy, inexpensive way to boost fiber, protein and other essential nutrients - what are your favorite ways to cook beans?
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
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      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      I wrote a guest post on Good Cheap Eats about quinoa and a recipe for quinoa stuffed bell peppers http://goodcheapeats.com/2010/03/quinoa-stuffed-bell-peppers-guest-post/

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Nicole - I can't think of anything it is similar to - it's a grain, with its own unique, mild flavor. It does need to be rinsed before cooking to get rid of a naturally occurring bitter coating.

      about 1 year ago

      Cara

      I would love to learn more

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Check out this gluten free chocolate cake - made with cooked quinoa! It's amazing! http://blogs.babble.com/family-kitchen/2010/11/09/gluten-free-chocolate-quinoa-cake/

      about 1 year ago

      Nicole

      what is the taste similar too?

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      I have lots of recipes that included quinoa on my blog. I even made a muffin with quinoa in the base. They were delicious.

      about 1 year ago

      blivey

      I bought a box, but still haven't tried cooking it yet. Any recipes?

      about 1 year ago

      Nicole

      I know it is part of the grain family can be used in sweet or savory dishes. . and cooked similar to rice or oats.

      about 1 year ago

      KatieMae

      Only vaguely

      about 1 year ago

      Brandie

      Yes. With a dd who isn't supposed to eat wheat, quinoa is one of the first foods we turned to for her! However, I feel like I don't have many ways to cook it. I need more!

      about 1 year ago
    • DinnerwithJulie 10 comments
    • Is everyone here familiar with quinoa - what it is, how to cook it and what to do with it?
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
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      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      I make big batches of granola and eat it over creamy plain yogurt (not fat free!) - check this out, you can make granola in your skillet! http://dinnerwithjulie.com/2010/08/27/quick-skillet-granola/

      about 1 year ago

      mmmyatt

      i have just started freezing breakfast food like french toast and waffles. the kids love them and i love not buying unhealthy prepackaged versions

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      We do that too - so much easier to make extra on the weekend to save time during the week. It helps me make healthier choices too to have those things on hand vs grabbing a granola bar on my way out the door.

      about 1 year ago

      Vanderbilt Wife

      I've used this recipe for French toast sticks, which incorporates squash. My toddler gobbles them down and doesn't know! http://onceamonthmom.com/toddler-french-toast-sticks/

      about 1 year ago

      Brandie

      We do the same with pancakes. I'm not a morning person so chances of me waking up and making them is slim to none. So this works well in our house!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      I agree! You can add different fruits to the pancakes, too, for variety!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      I do the same thing--frozen french toast, frozen pancakes, etc. I add fresh fruit to them b/c then you don't need syrup!

      about 1 year ago
    • ReneeJRoss 7 comments
    • An easy breakfast is pancakes with blueberries. I make a batch and freeze them. That way I can take them on the go. Also oatmeal with fruit is a great quick and easy breakfast.
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
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      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      ilinap - wow, great idea!!

      about 1 year ago

      robin

      There are some wonderful veggie/fruit 100% juice combos on the market that are so flavorful. Very little needed to add a healthy boost.

      about 1 year ago

      Nicole

      I have a recipe for carrot cake waffles

      about 1 year ago

      Sommer Collier

      That is brilliant! I shave veggies into thin strips and mix them into noodles so they can't pick them out! ;)

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      I have never made smoothies for the kids. YIKES. I need to do that!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      I make a leprechaun smoothie with lime yogurt, limeade, a banana, and spinach.

      about 1 year ago

      robin

      I LOVE my smoothie maker...so much!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      I put fresh parsley in their smoothies - with frozen berries, they don't even notice it in there!

      about 1 year ago
    • Wendy 8 comments
    • Another idea for picky kids: sneak those veggies into their fruit smoothie (good ones are carrots, cabbage, kale, chard) They will never know.
      about 1 year ago
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      Marie

      heavy cream (although it is only 5Tbsp), over a cup of butter (the main culprit).

      about 1 year ago

      Kayla S

      Check out www.sparkrecipes.com too. They have some AMAZING stuff.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Oil is generally a healthy fat though - the kind we need in our diets.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      I have a bunch of recipes that I try to take the oil and pasta out. Add a ton of veggies to make up for it. Here is a turkey primavera recipe. I have other onion and garlic chicken recipes on my blog too

      http://debbidoesdinnerhealthy.blogspot.com/2009/12/turkey-primavera.html

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      Weight Watchers points plus info is included on all the recipes here: http://onceamonthmom.com/diet/ Most of the recipes are just "healthified" versions.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Love Cooking Light! marie - what are the high fat ingredients you want to trim?

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      If you'd like, I'd be happy to look at the recipe. I can't guarantee perfection, but I'd love to give it a shot. You can email it to me if you'd like

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      Cooking Light magazine usually features a healthy recipe makeover in each issue. I think they take reader submissions. It's fun to see what they've changed from the original.

      about 1 year ago

      KatieMae

      If you're a member, this is available on the Weight Watchers website.

      about 1 year ago
    • Marie 9 comments
    • Are there any sites that will take a recipe and make it healthier? I have a garlic chicken pasta that I love but the calories and fat kill me!
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
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      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      I love strawberries and non-fat whipped cream. Tastes so good.

      about 1 year ago

      ginab

      I agree with Julie, if I start I can't stop!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      Julie, I'm the same way

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      A nibble of chocolate or a few Trader Joe's gummi bears do the trick (no fake food dyes...just colored with natural dyes).

      about 1 year ago

      robin

      Cocoa covered almonds (just had a couple). Not too sweet. Yum

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Ditto dark chocolate! I also find that the less sugar I eat, the less I want.

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      Dark chocolate

      about 1 year ago

      Marie

      Strawberries and angle food cake, no cream

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      I like eating fruit. But I also will make some things from hungry girl on occassion.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      I love berries and adding a little vanilla or cinnamon to bananas and berries is a delicious sweet treat

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      Fruit custard - cut down on the sugar , add fruits .... the milk helps a lot too :)

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      We love fresh seasonal fruit - add dollop of fruit yogurt!

      about 1 year ago
    • Chefdruck 12 comments
    • Are we ready to talk about dessert now? Sugar and sweets are what I try to cut out when I'm trying to eat healthier, but that sweet tooth can be a powerful temptress. What desserts do you turn to to be healthy?
      about 1 year ago
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      ginab

      I agree, I am drooling....

      about 1 year ago

      mmmyatt

      i should have made myself some lunch before i started reading all this!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      No kidding, glad I ate lunch first!

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      :)

      about 1 year ago
    • Jacky 4 comments
    • Oh boy, i am really hungry now!
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
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      Deborah

      I'd eat a grilled shoe. Everything is yummy grilled, but sometimes a perfectly ripe, in-season food cannot be improved.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      Another food I haven't tried - grilled fruit. Learning so much girls! Thank you all!

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      Try grilling slices of angel food cake, then topping with berries. Wonderful light dessert

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      my kids love grilled pinapples and grilled peaches. have you ever grilled bananas? so good

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      Grilled pineapple !!!! Any day :)

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      I love grilled fruit! It's also good with a small slice of angel food cake.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      LOVE grilled pineapple! Try it with some rum over it too. Just a bit.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      Oh grilled peaches and pineapples sounds divine!

      about 1 year ago

      Sommer Collier

      Oh I LOVE grilled fruit!

      about 1 year ago

      Cara

      we grill peaches a lot in the summer!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      Grilled pineapple. OH YUM.

      about 1 year ago

      Erin O

      Grilled pineapple is delicious!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      The sweetness is enhanced by grilling!

      about 1 year ago
    • Chefdruck 14 comments
    • Fruit is sweet yet healthy. Try grilling pineapple or peaches for a healthy dessert. http://www.chefdruck.com/2010/07/grilled-peaches-over-ice-cream-perfect.html or with a little caramel sauce (http://www.conagrafoods.com/recipes-Grilled-Pineapple-Stack-with-Caramel-Sauce-3367.html)
      about 1 year ago
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      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      I'm always looking for resources for the diet menu so thanks for sharing!

      about 1 year ago
    • Nivedita 1 comment
    • This is my friends blog ... she is all about healthy eating. Hope this too can help !!!
      http://mixtomatch.blogspot.com/
      about 1 year ago
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      Jessica

      this looks delicious!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      How did I not know about this?! Oh, my goodness, can't wait to try it!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      At lease now we have lots of healthy ideas...

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      I've been seeing this all over the place! awesome idea!

      about 1 year ago

      mmmyatt

      i have two grapefruits getting old right now that no one wants to eat. i will have to try this for sure!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      I love broiled grapefruit!i

      about 1 year ago
    • SouthernFairyt 6 comments
    • i love this broiled grapefruit recipe from @twopeasandpod http://twopeasandtheirpod.com/broiled-grapefruit-recipe/
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
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      1Chef

      The ones with cinnamon on top are "extra special"! LOL!

      about 1 year ago

      Kayla S

      Oh yum! I love graham crackers! Totally trying that next time!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      yum, vanessa!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Kayla, you could use graham cracker "sticks" for dipping that pudding, too!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      And this is a great way to use my mismatched wine glasses!

      about 1 year ago

      Kayla S

      Yum! I like to mix canned pumpkin with vanilla pudding and top with some whipped cream and cinnamon! It's better than pumpkin pie!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      I totally agree--presentation is half of it!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      As the saying goes,:We eat with our eyes".

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      That sounds so good! I really am getting hungry now!

      about 1 year ago
    • Chefdruck 9 comments
    • When things are beautiful to look at, they tend to taste better. I love to make up trifles or parfaits. Berries coupled with some skim milk pudding and light whipped cream are a beautiful dessert http://www.conagrafoods.com/recipes-Berry-Pudding-Trifle-2674.html
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
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      Deborah

      Smoothies are a staple around here. Bananas and pears seem to make them very creamy without cream or yougurt. We also like frozen berries to get them icy-cold and not so watery.

      about 1 year ago

      Vanderbilt Wife

      I suppose that would require having a higher-powered blender!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      I don't strain them. A higher powdered blender with grind up those seeds.

      about 1 year ago

      Vanderbilt Wife

      Do you strain your smoothies somehow? I love berry smoothies but HATE the seeds in them!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      almond milk ice vanilla protein powder is delish! if you want a thickener other than yogurt in smoothie try ice or banana, frozen bananas are also great

      about 1 year ago

      Hollydays

      mmmyatt - we just freeze fruit and use that along with some juice for our smoothies. I have a dairy allergic kiddo so we don't use yogurt.

      about 1 year ago

      Sommer Collier

      I always add a little protein powder to smoothies to balance them out!

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      I find just a nice piece of chocolate helps take the edge off the sweet craving after dinner. A small piece, savored slowly is perfect

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      I don't use yogurt in my smoothies. I use ice, protein powder, fruit and almond or coconut milk.

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      With a little one at home i prefer making smoothies too !!!!! Plus makes her have her daily serving of fruit :)

      about 1 year ago

      mmmyatt

      my problem is i just don't like the yogurt flavor of most smoothies. i keep trying to come up with a healthy version that doesn't use yogurt.

      about 1 year ago
    • Katie Goodman 11 comments
    • Sometimes i dont really need dessert, just something a little sweet. I often opt for smoothies. These raspberry smoothies are a favorite because it's so easy to keep everything on hand for when the craving strikes. http://www.goodlifeeats.com/2011/02/raspberry-smoothie-and-cinnamon-sugar-biscuits.html
      about 1 year ago
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      Nicole

      in a real hurry we use sugar free applesauce as the base

      about 1 year ago
    • Nicole 1 comment
    • gratin are easy to make and healthy. .
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
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      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      Love this idea! We make a "breakfast sundae" like this with plain yogurt, fresh fruit, sliced almonds, walnuts, a bit of shredded coconut, and a drizzle of honey. My sons think they're getting dessert for breakfast.

      about 1 year ago

      blivey

      great idea!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      My kids were so excited about it!

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      I take homemade cake , slice it , add sliced fruits , and a scoop of vanilla ice cream !!!!!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      sounds delish!

      about 1 year ago

      Tiffany

      That does sound good, and you can keep switching out the fruit for whatever is seasonal.

      about 1 year ago

      Mommiecooks

      Yum! what a cute idea for a bite of sweet!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      That really sounds delicious!

      about 1 year ago

      mmmyatt

      that's a great idea--my kids would love the surprise of a cone for breakfast.

      about 1 year ago
    • Wendy 9 comments
    • We just made the best dessert...I haven't even written about it yet. I took a waffle ice cream cone and put tiny amount of vanilla ice cream in the bottom, filled it up with fresh fruit, a tiny squirt of whipped cream and topped with coconut! This would be a good bfast too, just sub out the ice cream for vanilla yogurt!
      about 1 year ago
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      onceamonthmom

      I love this recipe of yours!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      great idea! love my ice cream maker. You can also freeze cantaloupe and whiz it in your food processor for a quick sorbet/real slushie!

      about 1 year ago

      Mommiecooks

      I saw that before and thought it looked heavenly!

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      I have always wanted a sorbet recipe made by hand instead of an ice cream maker.... thank you !!!!

      about 1 year ago

      Sommer Collier

      I just got an ice cream maker and have been using it non-stop. Great investment!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Even just freezing slices of fruit changes things up for a different healthy taste treat!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      oh my goodness. that sounds awesome!

      about 1 year ago
    • Chefdruck 7 comments
    • It's also really easy to whip up sorbets, even in the winter. An ice cream maker makes it really easy, but you can also do it by hand. I just made a clementine sorbet that was so sweet and fresh.Topped with a little meringue makes it extra fancy. http://www.chefdruck.com/2011/01/clementine-meringue-brulee-diet-dessert.html
      about 1 year ago
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      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      oh...honey. great idea!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      I"ve never done it but would love to try, it sounds good!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      What @slingmama said -- I've baked ours before, too.. with just a dash of cinnamon and brown sugar and then drizzled with honey once it comes out

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      You can put it in the microwave with some apple juice and top with a little cinnamon and sugar if you want. Tastes kind of like apple pie.

      about 1 year ago

      Cara

      interesting idea I think It would

      about 1 year ago
    • Nicole 5 comments
    • can you poach an apple like a pear or will it not work?
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
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      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      Oops! Commented in the wrong spot, LOVE yogurt parfaits!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      Oh Debbie, I don't make my own yogurt. I'm not that adventurous!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      I've never done it but I've seen recipes for it, I'd love to try!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      I love Greek yogurt - it has extra protein!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      My kids like yogurt w/apple butter and bananas on top. YUM.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      looks delicious, Renee

      about 1 year ago
    • ReneeJRoss 6 comments
    • I make greek yogurt parfait great for dessert and breakfast! http://cutiebootycakes.blogspot.com/2010/03/greek-yogurt-breakfast-of-champions.html
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
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      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      what a great idea!

      about 1 year ago

      Brandie

      I love apple sauce. In the fall I get gobs and gobs of apples. Almost every night I have applesauce going on the stove. Bonus: it fills the house with the most delicious scent ever!!!!
      Also, because I get a mix of apples, each batch tastes just a bit different! Yummy!

      about 1 year ago

      Erin O

      It's like healthy apple crisp!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      We picked about 10billion apples this year and made tons of applesauce. The kids gobble it up!

      about 1 year ago

      Cara

      I love doing this-- i always try to find apples in the "going fast" section of produce too

      about 1 year ago
    • Debbi 5 comments
    • Applesauce in the slow cooker is a great healthy dessert. Add a bit of reddi whip to the top and you're good to go!

      http://debbidoesdinnerhealthy.blogspot.com/2011/01/applesauce-in-slow-cooker.html
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
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      Donna B.

      My grandmother used to make her own yogurt... I never thought to do it myself.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      We just get plain yogurt and dress it up ourselves...depending on what we want to have. My daughter's favorite is to add cinnamon and sugar.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      I've always wanted to try this too! Thanks!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      It's amazingly simple! and so satisfying to make your own!

      about 1 year ago

      KatieMae

      My husband loves homemade yogurt in his lunchbox - add 2Tbsp of fruit preserves & it's just like store-bought.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      That's something I have been wanting to try. In the meantime I look for lower sugar/higher protein options that are all natural. Greek yogurt is great for that. Also, I often use plain (less sugar) and add fruit to it.

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      I make my own yogurt too !!!! Any yogurt older than a week is not suitable for a culture....... !!!!!

      about 1 year ago

      Tiffany

      Cool! I'm glad to see it'll work with 2% milk.

      about 1 year ago

      Brandie

      Something I've always wanted to try, but still haven't. I'm not sure what's holding me back. All my kids love yogurt though.

      about 1 year ago
    • DinnerwithJulie 9 comments
    • How to make your own yogurt! The packaged sweetened stuff contains 36-42 grams of sugar per cup - as much as Coke! http://blogs.babble.com/family-kitchen/2011/02/01/how-to-make-your-own-yogurt/
      about 1 year ago
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      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      I'm not a big cauliflower fan either. I will however put a bunch of steamed veggies on my plate instead of noodles. THen put the sauce OVER the veggies. Doesn't taste like Pasta but you still get the flavor of the sauce.

      about 1 year ago

      Brandie

      P;lease tell me I'm not alone. I've tried the cauliflower thing and it doesn't even taste close in my mind (either with pasta or as a mashed potato sub.)
      I want it to taste good so bad, and etiher I'm doing it wrong, or you all are lying about it ROFL!!!!
      That said, we will do spaghetti squash and zucchini for pasta any day and LOVE it!

      about 1 year ago

      Donna B.

      I've recently tried cauliflower crust for pizza - it's pretty good! I googled the recipe.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      That's great! Except that cauliflower is a carb too! :) All foods can be classified as protein, fat or carbohydrate.. we just need to focus on complex carbs (ie vegetables) and less refined ones (ie white pasta).

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      YUM. I love all those subs. Spaghetti squash is my fave w/a little olive oil and roasted pine nuts!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      such great ideas!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      Cauliflower mashed potatoes are also a great low calorie substitution!

      about 1 year ago

      Kayla S

      I saute zucchini in place of spaghetti or noodles sometimes :)

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      Have you substituted spaghetti squash for noodles? It's quite tasty!

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      Have you ever pureed cooked cauliflower to create a creamless alfredo style sauce?? It's so light and refreshing

      about 1 year ago
    • Katie 10 comments
    • I love to add cauliflower to any noodle dish -- only half the noodles = less carbs and less calories!
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
      X

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      Yes, sometimes you just need chocolate!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      Those look delicious. My goodness I'm starving! lol

      about 1 year ago

      Donna B.

      I don't like bananas with chocolate (weird, I know) - I wonder if I could substitute cherries?

      about 1 year ago

      Hollydays

      yummy!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      A reader calculated the nutrition info and WW points if you read the comments for those interested.

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      Oh yeah.... I would SO eat those

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      I am making these today. Seriously. My kids will LOVE this.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      Katie, you have the most beautiful food :)

      about 1 year ago

      Sommer Collier

      They sound amazing!

      about 1 year ago
    • Katie Goodman 9 comments
    • If you're having a chocolate craving, try these Triple Chocolate Banana Muffins. They're made with whole wheat and flax too. http://www.goodlifeeats.com/2011/01/triple-chocolate-banana-bread-muffins.html
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
      X

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      It's okay, it can't ALL be healthy!

      about 1 year ago

      Kayla S

      I could eat nothing but fruit for the rest of my life if it didn't reek havoc on my mouth after a while =X

      about 1 year ago
    • Katie Goodman 2 comments
    • I have a whole category of fruit desserts here: http://www.goodlifeeats.com/category/dessert-2/fruit-desserts some healthy, some not. We love fruit based desserts in spring and summer especially. Fruit is nature's candy!
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
      X

      Deborah

      This sounds yummy:)

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      I add flax seed to everything - pancakes, smoothies, stir fry, chili.

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      That sounds delicious!

      about 1 year ago

      blivey

      mmmmmm, sounds delish

      about 1 year ago

      mmmyatt

      that DOES sound good!

      about 1 year ago
    • ReneeJRoss 5 comments
    • I made an apple crisp that was divine! I added flax seed and used oats for the crust. http://cutiebootycakes.blogspot.com/2010/10/low-fat-apple-crisp.html
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
      X

      Deborah

      I steer clear of the artificial sweeteners. I do use agave sparingly and have reduced all sweeteners. I do wish people would let you know if they substitute artificial sweeteners in their food BEFORE you eat it.

      about 1 year ago

      Janice Bissex

      Love agave, honey, and maple syrup, but use old fashioned sugar (in moderation) in most of my recipes.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      I'm a huge fan of agave but not really into the stevia or sugar alternatives. I never buy the fake stuff either.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      Thanks, julie!

      about 1 year ago

      Hollydays

      we like stevia in drinks, but I don't care for it in cooking. I usually just use straight up sugar....it's kind of that one concession, I make.

      about 1 year ago

      Donna B.

      I use a lot of stevia and agave - honey and maple syrup less so.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      Honey and Maple Sugar work wonders! I'll try anything but the fake stuff :-)

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Love pure maple syrup and local honey! Agave nectar consists primarily of fructose and glucose - mostly fructose - chemically it's similar to high fructose corn syrup..

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      My grocer stocks bags of natural organic pure cane sugar now. A little more costly but worth it to me. I also drastically cut back on the amount of sugar in every recipe and find that the end result tastes much much better.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      I use honey and maple syrup. I don't use anything made in a lab because it gives me to creeps. I'd rather use a tish of real sugar than the fake stuff on the market.

      about 1 year ago

      Nicole

      has anyone tried the stevia plant in their herb garden

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      I love honey and agave. Not a huge fan of stevia...seems like it has an aftertaste.

      about 1 year ago

      Brandie

      I've used all but stevia. They all taste good. I still mostly use cane sugar though. And I sub in agave aparingly because it's still pretty controversial.

      about 1 year ago

      Vanderbilt Wife

      I really want to like stevia but I think it tastes nasty. I will occasionally use maple syrup in my coffee--YUM! I've also been using coconut palm sugar in coffee and it is yummy--obviously not a sugar "alternative" but not as processed.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      I buy honey by the gallon...

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      I've heard mixed reviews on Agave, too.. would be interested to read more

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      Big fan!! I love using honey or pure maple syrup as a sub for white sugar, which I am vowing to never use again. I also have been using pure cane sugar too.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      I've used honey and maple syrup

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      Honey and Maple syrup !!!! tastes good too :)

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      I have not yet tried agave - I've heard mixed reviews on it.

      about 1 year ago

      Cara

      yes big fan of agave and honey-- haven't tried stevia yet

      about 1 year ago
    • Chefdruck 21 comments
    • Alternative sugars - honey, Stevia, agave, maple syrup. Have you tried them? Are you a fan?
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
      X

      1Chef

      Pear and apple slices are also nice dipped in chocolate!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      Rachel: MANDARIN ORANGES dipped in dark chocolate w/sea salt. You're killin' me. That is the best EVER.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      I was surprised to learn how much fiber there is in dark chocolate, too! 1 g per square of Lindt 70% cocoa!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Katie Goodman

      Gonna have to try the oranges dipped in chocolate. That is one of my fav combos!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      ReneeJRoss

      That sounds delicious Rachel!

      about 1 year ago

      robin

      Thanks for this!

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Everyone loves that combo. Easy to do and impressive and elegant!

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      Yumm !!! Now i am craving for some dessert after all this talk on desserts :)

      about 1 year ago

      mmmyatt

      i'll have to try these for my husband's birthday!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      I just started liking dark chocolate. I was always into milk chocolate.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      love! we did mandarin oranges dipped in organic dark chocolate with a sprinkling of sea salt. so good

      about 1 year ago
    • ReneeJRoss 11 comments
    • For Valentine's day or any day I like chocolate and fruit. This year I've made chocolate covered strawberries with organic dark chocolate (full of anti-oxidants)! http://cutiebootycakes.blogspot.com/2011/02/valentines-day-treats-healthy-version.html
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
      X

      Deborah

      Right now, citrus is in season and I cannot get enough of it; Also, having a stash of tea handy to choose from makes me feel like I'm indulging when I'm not. :)

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      Apples are a wonderful snack! Large, crunchy, and sweet!

      about 1 year ago

      ginab

      Coffee and a fiber bar (there are some really good ones out there)!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      I drink some tea with honey & Cinnamon.,. Love the Chai tea from Stash.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      An apple. Love it. Super filling too!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      I have a decaf cappucino and some almonds/dried cranberries.

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      Fresh seasonal fruit.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      or...take a little checker shaped pretzel, put a hershey kiss on it. Pop it in the microwave for 20 seconds, then smash a nut on top. Problem is...I will eat more than just 1 or 2.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      I have a hard time in the late afternoon! usually a square of dark chocolate, and sometimes some Belgian chocolate rooibos tea...

      about 1 year ago

      Donna B.

      trail mix with nuts and dried fruit, or an orange (if I have one handy). I also have a stash of Crystal Light candy for those times when I have to have something sweet.

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      Nuts are a great option too.

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      fruit - or a smoothie - or a piece of dark chocolate

      about 1 year ago

      KatieMae

      One pc of chocolate -yeah, not healthy but it takes away the sweet tooth for a while

      about 1 year ago

      Kate Selner

      I make tea. And I get out of the kitchen. Sometimes I have a small slice of bread spread with a little natural peanut butter and it seems to do the trick.

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      Nuts !!!!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      I love to munch on hummus/pita bread

      about 1 year ago

      Erin O

      Nuts are a good option for me, or maybe granola or a small bowl of cereal.

      about 1 year ago

      mmmyatt

      cocoa dusted almonds

      about 1 year ago

      Kayla S

      Dried fruit!

      about 1 year ago
    • Chefdruck 19 comments
    • Dessert time is a danger zone, but 4PM is even more difficult. How do you deal when the sugar craving strikes in the afternoon?
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
      X

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      I tried it but my food processor wouldn't break the bits of banana. I guess I need a new food processor!

      about 1 year ago

      Nicole

      yum

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      YUM

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      no. way.

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      Have to try this for sure !!!

      about 1 year ago

      Brandie

      I have to try this now. .

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      Chefdruck

      Love that!

      about 1 year ago

      Sommer Collier

      I've got to see that!

      about 1 year ago
    • Katie Goodman 8 comments
    • Check out this one ingredient banana ice cream from The Kitchn http://www.thekitchn.com/thekitchn/stay-cool/how-to-make-creamy-ice-cream-with-just-one-ingredient-093414 how cool is that?
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      I think lemons make everything better. I spent part of last summer in Sorrento, Italy, where lemons rule. Now I can't get enough fresh lemon flavor.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      Love lemon desserts!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      I love adding lemon to desserts. yum yum!

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      This sounds good !!! And true lemon adds a zing !!!

      about 1 year ago
    • Vanderbilt Wife 4 comments
    • I used less-refined sugar and whole wheat flour to make this divine lemon cake. http://www.vanderbiltwife.com/2010/03/de-luscious-lemon-cake.html

      Lemon helps really zing desserts without calories!
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
      X
    • smy509 0 comments
    • Sloppy joe meat and pasta--that was my kindergartener's lunch today and he ate it all. I should know, I was on lunch duty!
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
      X

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      I love roasted brussels sprouts with garlic and balsamic vinegar. Also good with some chopped pancetta.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      I love roasted garlic spread on whole wheat toast. You dont' miss the butter at all and the garlic is very mild.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      honey and balsamic. YUM. that sounds awesome.

      about 1 year ago

      Nicole

      does anyone have a recipe for home made italian ice opposed to heavy ice cream

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      It did go by fast. Wow!

      about 1 year ago

      Talk Host

      Chefdruck

      I love roasted carrots for a side dish. With a touch of honey and balsamic.

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      1 hour just flew by !!!!!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      WOW that went by fast!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      How 'bout some links to your favorite side dishes? That's where I get stumped...

      about 1 year ago

      1Chef

      We've covered a lot!

      about 1 year ago
    • Chefdruck 10 comments
    • We have about 5 minutes left. Just time for a few more burning healthy meal makeover questions. Anything that we haven't covered that you want to talk about?
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      ditto! so nutrient-dense and low calorie!

      about 1 year ago

      Kristin Hale

      that sounds yummy

      about 1 year ago
    • lindsay 2 comments
    • I add pumpkin to everything (oatmeal, cookies). I also make a faux pumpkin pie - canned (100% pure) pumpkin, a little cinnamon, whipped cream, almonds...it's a healthy version of America's favorite pie!
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Nicole

      yeah opposed to heavy ice cream

      about 1 year ago

      Stephanie

      that is a great idea!

      about 1 year ago

      Brandie

      That would be very nice to have! My kids also love italian ice. We have a restaurant by us that has it, and we go a few times in the summer just to get that! If we could have it at home, that would be so so nice!

      about 1 year ago

      Cara

      oh yum great idea

      about 1 year ago

      Tiffany

      Ooh, that would be great!

      about 1 year ago
    • Nicole 5 comments
    • does anyone have a recipe for home made italian ice
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Talk Host

      SouthernFairyt

      thanks for joining us!

      about 1 year ago

      Brandie

      Yep! Thanks everyone!!! =)

      about 1 year ago

      KatieMae

      Yes, thank you for the links too!

      about 1 year ago
    • robin 3 comments
    • I learned so much today. Thanks!
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
      X

      Featured Guest

      smy509

      I love grilling--I've done it even with snow on the deck. And it's my go to all summer! Fast and easy meal, a good salad (see below), a simple cut of meat on the grill and brown rice on the side.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      We just got a grill for the first time and we've used it every day for the past week. It's super fast and I don't even have to do the work (my hubby takes care of it) :-)

      about 1 year ago
    • DinnerwithJulie 3 comments
    • Convenience foods aren't always convenient - case in point: frozen battered fish takes 25 minutes to bake from frozen, which a fresh fish filet cooks in 10! What are your favorite fast and easy meals?
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
      X

      Featured Guest

      smy509

      We are at a Catholic school so no hot lunches or vending machines. Yea!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      I agree, the school lunches are pretty bad. Doritoes are an "approved" item as it contains enough corn or whatever.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      Ditto. It's rough when other kids bring chocolate bars for snacks! but an opportunity to teach them what's healthy and what isn't, and why to make good choices out in the world.

      about 1 year ago
    • smy509 3 comments
    • Sorry, I'm jumping in so late--I'm going to throw my 2 cents in about healthy lunches because that has seemed to be the easiest meal around here! Be an advocate with your child's teacher if possible. No sweets (fruit or crackers are fine--no cookies or dessert items) for morning snack allowed in my kindergartener's class.
      And he knows it and reminds me.

      So we do fruit, carrot sticks, something of that sort.
      about 1 year ago
    • X
    • Katie 0 comments
    • My friend quinn does great videos about how-to do healthy cooking. (she doesnt know I am posting these, but I think they are super helpful!)
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      thanks to everyone who pulled this class together! what fun!

      about 1 year ago
    • Nivedita 1 comment
    • So many new ideas , and that too all healthy !!!! Thanks to Motherhood and Conagra foods !!! Thanks Hosts and Co-hosts!!!!
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      notdiyheather

      great chat! thanks

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      Me too. Thanks everyone.

      about 1 year ago
    • Stephanie 2 comments
    • Thanks, ladies! I have a few recipes and websites to visit after today's chat!
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
      X

      Nivedita

      Thanks !!!!

      about 1 year ago
    • smy509 1 comment
    • Favorite sites for lunch inspiration (mine is no longer up but will return in May)...www.lunchinabox.net & www.cookingformonkeys.com. The bento idea is easy and you can plan ahead.
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      Congrats!! Hope you enjoy it!

      about 1 year ago

      Stephanie

      Congrats !!!

      about 1 year ago

      Mommiecooks

      congrats!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      newyorkchica

      Congrats to all the winners!!

      about 1 year ago

      Nivedita

      Congrats !!!!!!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      Thanks! This was fun! Congrats to the winners.

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      DinnerwithJulie

      yahoo!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ohamanda

      Fun! Thanks so much for this topic. I have about 12000 new links to read and recipes to try!

      about 1 year ago

      Brandie

      Congrats!!!! =)

      about 1 year ago
    • Erin O 9 comments
    • We've hit 2 p.m. - time flies! You've all shared amazing recipes and suggestions, and please feel free to continue talking! We'll have a summary of this fabulous class posted tomorrow!

      Without further ado! The winners of the three ConAgra Foods gift bags are:

      mmmyatt
      Jacky
      Janice Bissex

      Congrats! Please send your mailing address to me at erin.olson@themotherhood.com and we will make sure they get sent right out!
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
      X

      1Chef

      Thanks!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      It HAS been fun! Can't wait to go back and check it out again!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      ilinap

      Cheers!

      about 1 year ago
    • SouthernFairyt 3 comments
    • Thanks for joining us everyone! It's been great!
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      blivey

      Ok, I'll check them out. Thanks, again!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      Hope you enjoy them!! All the hosts have a ton more on our blogs too!

      about 1 year ago
    • blivey 2 comments
    • I can't wait to try the recipes I got today. Thanks to everyone!
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Featured Guest

      iDreamofClean

      You absolutely can! When it comes to cooking, just follow the instructions :-) http://onceamonthmom/diet

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      You can totally do it! Just make small changes. > http://www.aroundmyfamilytable.com/

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      Hope you are able to make some! All the hosts have many more healthy meals on their blogs too.
      http://debbidoesdinnerhealthy.blogspot.com/

      about 1 year ago
    • robin 3 comments
    • You hosts have made me feel like maybe I CAN cook with these great new recipes. Many look pretty easy. Thanks!
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
      X

      1Chef

      Thank you!

      about 1 year ago
    • ReneeJRoss 1 comment
    • Thanks everyone! This has been a wonderful discussion, so glad you could join us!
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
      X

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      Thanks! It WAS fun!

      about 1 year ago
    • newyorkchica 1 comment
    • Ok everyone. It was really nice, fun and very informative. Thanks for all the tips, recipes and sites. Enjoy your day!
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
      X

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      Plus they have FUN eating it too!

      about 1 year ago
    • smy509 1 comment
    • Another idea for an easy lunch--meat and cheese kebobs on coffee stirrers. I've also done it with fruit. Easy for a little one to eat and the plastic stirrer doesn't have splinters or sharp edges.
      about 1 year ago
  • Talk Host
      X
    • Chefdruck 0 comments
    • Thanks to everyone for all these great ideas. Can't wait to try them all! I'll be checking the transcript for all the great links shared today.
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
      X

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      Me too! Thanks!

      about 1 year ago
    • Wendy 1 comment
    • Thanks! I can't wait to try out all the new recipes I got today!
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      1Chef

      OK- thanks!

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Wendy

      yep...scroll down a bit to Erin O's post

      about 1 year ago

      Featured Guest

      Debbi

      Good question? I forgot about that?

      about 1 year ago
    • 1Chef 3 comments
    • Were there winners of the ConAgra gift packages?
      about 1 year ago
  • Featured Guest
      X
    • smy509 0 comments
    • More lunch inspiration, "Lunch Boxes and Snacks" by Annabel Karmel (love any of her cookbooks for kids) and "Cook it Together."

      Getting the kids involved is also key--takes more time and patience but mine love to shop and chop! And it's easier to get them to eat something when they've been part of the process.
      about 1 year ago
    • X

      Hannah

      ok, i thought it was 2 et. i'll have to keep checking. thanks

      about 1 year ago

      Erin O

      Hi Hannah! The class was 1-2 p.m. ET, so the live text conversation is over - but you can go back and read through the recipes and suggestions anytime you want! It starts at the bottom, with more recent posts at the top. We will also post a summary tomorrow with the highlights.

      about 1 year ago
    • Hannah 2 comments
    • Hey everyone I'm new here, how does this all work???
      about 1 year ago
    • X
    • Cooper 0 comments
    • This class was amazing. Very excited for the summary, which will be up today! Awesome content, ladies. Thank you so much everyone! Well done!
      about 1 year ago
Cooking Connections

This class is part of the Cooking Connections series

Talk Description

Healthier Meal Makeovers class is part of the Cooking Connections series and is served up by TheMotherhood and ConAgra Foods.

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