Roast Your Own Sunflower Seeds

  With three kids (and their friends) always on the prowl for something to keep them going between meals, I’m always on the hunt for healthy, protein-filled, easy-to-nibble foods. Sunflower seeds are the perfect intersection of these two searches — delicious AND nutritious. Plus, they’re safe even for those with nut allergies. Here’s the cloud to my silverContinue reading “Roast Your Own Sunflower Seeds”

Fruit Smoothies

I LOVE smoothies. My kids LOVE smoothies. I mean, really, who doesn’t love smoothies? I once kept a whole cookbook devoted to smoothies on my shelf. But I quickly realized that the beauty of a smoothie is that you don’t need a recipe. Just a few guidelines, maybe, and a willingness to taste and adjust asContinue reading “Fruit Smoothies”

Jam Bars

These have to be one of my most requested cookies — and one of my healthiest dessert recipes. Made from our homemade jam, oats and whole wheat pastry flour, they boast protein and fruit and not so much sugar. But my kids don’t care about that. They like them for their buttery, naturally sweet taste.Continue reading “Jam Bars”

Whirley-Pop Popcorn

  Is there a snack more fun than fresh-made popcorn? It’s warm and salty, buttery and airy. It’s not complicated or expensive, but feels more festive than, say, opening a bag of chips. While there are many ways to pop your own popcorn, I am fond of the Whirley-Pop method. I purchased our pan years ago andContinue reading “Whirley-Pop Popcorn”

Spinach Banana Muffins

  We are a big muffin family and I often find ways to tuck veggies (think pumpkin, zucchini) into my batter. But when I first made these, I braced myself for a chorus of frowns and yucks. Instead, these muffins disappeared. They were a hit for breakfast and snack and were requested for dessert one night. You heardContinue reading “Spinach Banana Muffins”