Simple Yet Gourmet

  I'd like to dedicate this post to my Mom and siblings who have an Instant Pot but never use it because they don't know what to make in it.  I'm still learning new things myself, but these eggs are something I make frequently and they are so easy to do.  Plus, it's totally hands off so you don't have to sit and babysit a pot of boiling water and they peel so easily! It's handy to have hard boiled eggs on hand for sandwiches (have you tried the Egg Salad Sandwich with Bacon and Cheddar Cheese yet ?) , salads, deviled eggs, or just to snack on! I tend to grab one of these in the late afternoon when it's too close to dinner to eat something big but I want a protein packed snack to tide me over.  Hope you'll give these a try!

Did you know that Sunday is Johnny Appleseed day?  Making these muffins would be the perfect way to kick off the day!  Just look at those nicely domed tops, crumbly streusel topping, and that thick vanilla glaze.  I'm ready to go make another batch right now just looking at them.  But don't start thinking these muffins are all looks- they have goodness underneath too! What you don't see is a light, delicious cinnamon muffin base infused with bits of apple-y goodness.  There is so much texture in these muffins!  I love them and I'm pretty sure ol' Johnny would too.  Such a perfect Fall muffin!

 I know, I know.  We already have like 5 banana muffins posted on this blog.  I have put off posting this recipe because of that fact, but here's the thing.  While those muffins are all delicious and great in their own way, when I have ripe bananas you know I'm either making these muffins or banana bread.  More often, these muffins because they are perfect for a grab and go snack or breakfast.  My family LOVES these muffins! They have such a deep chocolate flavor and are so moist.  What my family doesn't think about, but I love, are that these muffins are healthier than your average muffin.  They are made with whole wheat flour, coconut oil, greek yogurt for extra protein, and have less sugar that most other muffins.  These are best warm (they can be reheated in the microwave for 10 seconds) and those bites with melted chocolate chips are the absolute best!

There is nothing fancy about this salad, but considering the fact that I've been making it for the last 18 years, it's a keeper.  I love it because it comes together quickly, it's customizable, meets my criteria for a one dish dinner (protein, fiber, and veggies), and everyone in the family will eat it without complaint! This pasta is perfect for a make ahead dish for those nights that you know there isn't going to be much time to make dinner but you still want something healthy and satisfying.  I'm writing this they way I typically make it, but you could totally add in some other veggies like cucumbers, tomatoes, raw broccoli, etc.  You can even use a different type of pasta.  I like to use the Ronzoni Garden Delight Veggie though because it actually contains a 1/2 serving of veggies per serving!