To DIY or not to DIY, that is the question. Whether you want to make your own homemade salad dressing because it’s more delicious, cost effective, or because you have control over the ingredients, having an arsenal of homemade dressing recipes at your fingertips will help. While I don’t always make my dressings homemade (more on that later), knowing how at leasts gives you the option and therefore control. So, that being said, here are 10 homemade salad dressing recipe to keep tucked away in your back pocket (or your browser’s bookmarks) to use when you see fit!

Why Make Homemade Salad Dressing from Scratch?

Spoiler alert: I don’t always make my own salad dressing from scratch. Sometimes it makes sense to make it yourself, sometimes it it doesn’t. I’ll quickly run through the advantages and disadvantages to help you decide when and why it will be beneficial to make your own homemade salad dressing, and when to buy store bought.

So, as you can see, many of those ingredients are shelf-stable pantry staples that you can keep on hand to whip up your own dressings on demand! If you don’t have a well stocked pantry right now, just concentrate on buying one or two items per week and you’ll be there in no time!

Working on that basic formula, here are 11 homemade salad dressings that you can start experimenting with!
(pictured above: Sweet Crunch Winter Salad)

10 Easy DIY Salad Dressing Recipes:

Easy Homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette

This super simple homemade balsamic vinaigrette is perfect for all your green salads and pasta salads and has several options for customizing!

Go to the recipe >>>

Easy Homemade Balsamic Viniagrette – This is probably the first dressing recipe that everyone should learn. It’s simple, good on everything, and has plenty of room for customization!

Homemade Ranch Dressing

Homemade ranch dressing is creamy, tangy, and fully of savory herbs and spices. Drizzle on your favorite salad, or use as a dip for vegetables and chips!

Go to the recipe >>>

Homemade Ranch Dressing – Because who doesn’t love ranch dressing? This is America, right? 😅I like making this homemade version because it’s not as sugar laden as bottled versions, and I feel like bottled ranch tends to have the most questionable ingredients out of all store bought dressings.

Peanut Lime Dressing

This Peanut Lime Salad dressing is sweet, savory, tangy, and creamy all in one! Drizzle over salad, grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables.

Go to the recipe >>>

Peanut Lime Dressing – This dressing is positively addictive!! Try it on my Cold Peanut Noodle Salad, or just drizzle it over some roasted sweet potatoes and you won’t be disappointed!

Lemon Dill Tahini Dressing

Pour this tangy Lemon Dill Tahini Dressing over roasted vegetables, grilled salmon or chicken, potato salad, or your favorite green salad.

Go to the recipe >>>

Lemon Dill Tahini Dressing – Tahini is a powerhouse ingredient for homemade salad dressings if you’re vegan or trying to avoid dairy. It offers a nice creaminess to salad dressing without having to use dairy! Plus it lasts just about forever in your fridge.

Honey Mustard Sauce

This sweet, tangy, and creamy homemade honey mustard sauce only takes a few minutes to make and is great for sandwiches, salads, dipping, and more!

Go to the recipe >>>

Honey Mustard Sauce – This one is both a sauce AND a dressing. I love it on my Honey Mustard Broccoli Salad, but you can also use it as a dressing for chicken salad.

Lime Crema

This tangy, creamy, fresh, and garlicky Lime Crema is the key to taking your tacos, nachos, salads, and more to the next level. 

Go to the recipe >>>

Lime Crema – This dressing has earned a cult following. Just a few simple ingredients and it’s so freaking amazing drizzled on just about anything. Use it on a taco salad, tacos themselves, or even a roasted vegetable salad like my Roasted Sweet Potato Rainbow Salad.

Kale Pesto

Making a small batch of kale pesto is a great way to use leftover kale. This flavorful pesto is great on sandwiches, in soups, dips, and more!

Go to the recipe >>>

Homemade Kale Pesto – Pesto makes a great dressing, especially for pasta salads. And with this cheaper kale version, you’ll also be adding a healthy dose of greens to your meal. 

Sesame Ginger Dressing

Soy sauce, honey, fresh ginger, and sesame oil provide big flavor in this homemade Sesame Ginger Dressing.

Go to the recipe >>>

Sesame Ginger Dressing – Zingy fresh ginger and nutty toasted sesame oil come together for a flavorful dressing that will go with any Southeast Asian inspired salad. It goes really great with finely shredded cabbage, chicken, or shrimp!

Chimichurri Sauce: Good on Anything and Everything

Chimichurri sauce is a tangy, fresh, and garlicky sauce that delivers big flavor to any meal. Use as a marinade, dipping sauce, or condiment.

Go to the recipe >>>

Chimichurri Sauce – Sauces can often times double as a dressing. I love using a chimichurri sauce as a dressing for pasta salad, or as a dressing to drizzle over kebabs!

Creamy Avocado Dressing

This super fresh creamy avocado dressing is light, fresh, and great for dipping vegetables or pouring over a nice, crunchy salad.

Go to the recipe >>>

Creamy Avocado Dressing – If you love “green” flavors, this one is for you. It’s creamy, but light and herby, which makes it perfect for your big bowl garden vegetables type salads! This one also makes a great dip for fresh vegetables. 

The post 10 Simple Homemade Salad Dressing Recipes appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Did your New Year’s resolution include eating more vegetables? It’s a fantastic goal and one I get behind anytime of year, but there’s definitely a learning curve! I’m sure we’ve all had this experience: ambitiously buying a shopping cart full of vegetables at the beginning of the week, only to let half (if not all) of them wilt in the fridge by Friday. Having your vegetables end up in the garbage is practically the same as throwing your money away (except more smelly), so I wanted to round up six easy ways to use leftover vegetables, that anyone can do and with very little planning. Let’s reduce our food waste, save some money, and eat delicious food in the process. Sound good?

Make sure to bookmark this list so the next time you peek in your fridge and see something that is about to be on its way out you can browse these options and whip up something super tasty with those awesome vegetables!

Easy Ways to Use Leftover Vegetables Before They Go Bad:

1. Stir Fry

Great for: bell peppers, onions, broccoli, carrots, squash, mushrooms, eggplant, cabbage, asparagus, spinach, peas

Stir fries are my go-to easy meal because they’re incredibly fast, you can add just about ANY meat or vegetable to them, and they’re different every time. Not only will you get variety with the vegetables that you add, but you can change up the sauce every time, too. Use a basic soy based stir fry sauce like the one in my Ground Turkey Stir Fry (pictured above), a coconut based sauce like in my Spicy Coconut Vegetable Stir Fry, or even take a short cut and use a bottled sauce like in my Sweet Chili Chicken Stir Fry Bowls. And while you’re at it, top that stir fry with your leftover green onion and cilantro. ;)

2. Pizza

Great for: spinach, kale, broccoli, tomatoes, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, eggplant, zucchini

One of my jobs before I was a blogger was working the pizza station at Whole Foods. When I tell you we made pizzas out of everything, I mean everything. Any unused ingredient we could find in the kitchen made its way onto one of our creative “specialty” pizzas and we made some amazing flavor combination discoveries in the process. So when Friday rolls around, scan your fridge for leftover vegetables, leftover cheese, even your leftover meat from the week and toss it onto a pizza. And if you want pizza night to be even faster and easier, make French Bread Pizzas (pictured above), a “Quick Fix” tortilla pizza, or even a Pizzadilla.

3. Pasta Salad

Great for: zucchini and yellow squash, onions, spinach, kale, mushrooms, asparagus, tomatoes, bell peppers, broccoli, cucumber, peas, radishes, cauliflower

Cook some pasta, chop your vegetables, add a little cheese, and douse with your favorite dressing. DONE. Pasta salad really is that easy and flexible. Again, you get even more variety with this meal if you change up your dressing. The easiest option is to use your favorite bottled dressing like in my Sweep the Kitchen Pasta Salad (pictured above), you can make your own homemade balsamic vinaigrette like in my Tomato Mozzarella Pasta Salad, a lemony garlic vinaigrette like in my Greek Chicken Pasta Salad, or even something creamy like in my Creamy Lemon Dill Pasta Salad.

4. Frittatas, Omelets, and Scrambles

Great for: tomatoes, onions, zucchini and yellow squash, spinach, kale, mushrooms, asparagus, bell pepper, broccoli, avocado

Eggs and vegetables are total besties. I routinely chop up whatever vegetable I have in my fridge, add it to a skillet with a couple eggs, and make a super fast vegetable scramble. But you can also bake vegetables into your eggs like in the ratatouille frittata pictured above, bake them into little “egg cups“, fold them into an omelet, or even a breakfast egg quesadilla.

5. Soup

Great for: potatoes and sweet potatoes, onions, celery, carrots, mushrooms, spinach, kale, cabbage, corn, peas, cauliflower

Soup might be the original “catch all” recipe and they’re perfect for vegetables that may be a tad limp already (they’ll be soft after simmering in the soup anyway), and “hard” root vegetables that need longer cooking. It’s hard to go wrong when it comes to soup. Just toss whatever you have in a pot, add some water or broth, a bunch of herbs and spices, and it’s almost guaranteed to taste good. One of my favorite quick ways to use leftover vegetables in soup is to just toss whatever I have into a bowl of instant ramen. But many other soups, like the Vegetable Barley Soup pictured above, my “All You Can Eat” Cabbage Soup, or Beef and Cabbage Soup can really have just about any vegetable added to them without changing the flavor profile too much. Bonus, most soups are freezer friendly so it’s a 1-2 punch on food waste!

Roast Them!

Great for: potatoes and sweet potatoes, carrots, radishes, carrots, mushrooms, eggplant, bell pepper, broccoli, winter squash (butternut, acorn, delicata, etc.), beets, cauliflower

Roasting vegetables is like giving them a second chance at life. It’s a great option for vegetables that may already be a touch soft (and when I say soft, I don’t mean rotten, just not super crisp). Chop them up, toss with oil, salt, pepper, or your favorite seasoning blend, and roast in a 400ºF oven until they’re caramelized. Once roasted vegetables are great on salads, sandwiches, bowl meals, pizzas, pasta, burritos, tacos, omelets, or more. Or you can roast them right on the sheet pan with some meat, like my Smoky Roasted Sausage and Vegetables, and make a whole meal right on the sheet pan.

Got any tips for fellow readers? What are your favorite ways to use leftover vegetables before they go bad? Leave your tip in the comments below!!

The post 6 Easy Ways to Use Leftover Vegetables appeared first on Budget Bytes.

It’s that time of year again! Time to look back and reflect on everything that happened. I like to do an end of the year round up my favorite recipes so you can browse the best of the best in one place and make sure that you don’t miss out on anything delicious! This list of top 20 recipes of 2019 are my absolute favorites from this year, recipes that made me say, “WOW.” Recipes that I think you should put on your list ASAP!

And feel free to share your favorites in the comments below. I know we all have different tastes, so if there is a recipe that you think is an absolute must have, we want to know!

Best Budget Bytes Recipes of 2019

(in chronological order)

1. Easy Cauliflower and Chickpea Masala – This runaway hit is loved by meat eaters and vegetarians alike! The super flavorful and creamy sauce is absolutely to die for, and it’s easy to make vegan with one simple ingredient swap.

Cauliflower and Chickpea Masala

This super easy, ultra creamy, and heavily spiced Cauliflower and Chickpea Masala will be your new favorite weeknight dinner! So much flavor, so little effort. 

Go to the recipe >>>

2. Balsamic Roasted Mushrooms with Herby Kale Mashed Potatoes – Another hit from last January’s Vegetarian Challenge, this super hearty vegetarian dinner meal preps well and will not leave your taste buds disappointed!

Balsamic Roasted Mushrooms with Herby Kale Mashed Potatoes

These Balsamic Roasted Mushrooms with Herby Kale Mashed Potatoes are a vegetarian meal that will please any "meat and potatoes" style meal lover. 

Go to the recipe >>>

3. Roasted Cauliflower and Quinoa Salad – I absolutely LOVE this salad because you can actually freeze it! How many other salads can you freeze?? Not to mention it makes a great base for bowl meals and is also great stuffed into a tortilla as a wrap (with a little ranch dressing). Super versatile!

Roasted Cauliflower and Quinoa Salad

This Roasted Cauliflower and Quinoa Salad holds up well in the refrigerator for days, making it perfect for meal prep or brown bagging your lunch. 

Go to the recipe >>>

4. Creamy White Bean and Spinach Quesadillas – I love an easy quesadilla. This one is super creamy, cheesy, and flavorful, plus there is minimal chopping and cooking. P.S. there is a version with chicken, too (Creamy Chicken and Spinach Quesadillas)!

Creamy White Bean and Spinach Quesadillas

Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, these insanely delicious Creamy White Bean and Spinach Quesadillas make an awesomely fast weeknight dinner. 

Go to the recipe >>>

5. Scallion Herb Chickpea Salad – Ever wonder what you should do with your leftover green onions, parsley, and cilantro? THIS IS IT. This super yummy salad is a great filling vegetarian dish that can be scooped up with crackers or stuffed into a pita or wrap for lunch. So fresh, so good.

Scallion Herb Chickpea Salad

Light, bright, and full of spring flavors, this Scallion Herb Chickpea Salad will keep you full all afternoon. Serve as a sandwich, wrap, or salad! 

Go to the recipe >>>

6. Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken – If you’re as crazy about cilantro and lime as I am, you’ll love this super fast skillet chicken. The flavors are vibrant, fresh, and bold. Pair it with a couple of simple sides like beans and rice and your dinner is DONE.

Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken

Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken is full of the bright fresh flavors of summer. Cook it quickly in a skillet or throw it on the grill for a fast dinner! 

Go to the recipe >>>

7. Homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets – This one actually surprised me. I’ve never been a huge chicken nugget fan, but I pretty much crave these daily! Add a couple dipping sauces, some fresh vegetables, and you’ve got an awesome little meal.

Homemade Baked Chicken Nuggets

Homemade baked chicken nuggets are crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, easy to make, and make a delicious meal or snack. 

Go to the recipe >>>

8. Honey Mustard Sauce – Speaking of dipping sauces for the chicken nuggets, this homemade Honey Mustard Sauce is TO DIE FOR. Like, I wanted to just eat it with a spoon. But broccoli florets work well, too. ;)

Honey Mustard Sauce

This sweet, tangy, and creamy homemade honey mustard sauce only takes a few minutes to make and is great for sandwiches, salads, dipping, and more!

Go to the recipe >>>

9. Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Peanut Lime Dressing – I never expected sweet potatoes to taste so good with peanut lime dressing, but the combo is absolutely magical! This is one of those side dish appetizer type recipes that will accidentally become your whole meal because you won’t be able to stop.

Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Peanut Lime Dressing

Oven baked sweet potato fries drizzled with homemade peanut lime dressing, piled high with fresh cilantro, chopped peanuts, and a pinch of spicy red pepper.

Go to the recipe >>>

10. Cold Peanut Noodle Salad – I was really crushing on the peanut lime dressing this year! This amazing veggie-filled pasta salad is definitely one of my top 3 recipes of the year. It makes an amazing meal prep and is just soooo delish. Basically, it’s everything I want in a recipe.

Cold Peanut Noodle Salad

This Cold Peanut Noodle Salad with homemade peanut lime dressing is the perfect meal prep for summer! No reheating necessary.

Go to the recipe >>>

11. Luscious Homemade Lemon Curd – Ohhh-emmmm-geeee. This stuff tastes like velvet sunshine. Need I say more? Well yes, let me also say that it’s awesome on strawberry or blueberry shortcakes (and yogurt parfaits, oatmeal, waffles, English muffins, cakes, etc.). 

Luscious Homemade Lemon Curd

This luscious homemade lemon curd only takes four simple ingredients, about 10 minutes, and tastes like velvet sunshine in a jar.

Go to the recipe >>>

12. Creamy Coconut Curry Lentils – Easy dinners are always appreciated in my house. And the fact that this one is vegan and still super filling makes it an instant favorite of mine. Plus, so much fiber. And we can all use more fiber, right??

Creamy Coconut Curry Lentils with Spinach

These rich, creamy, and earthy Coconut Curry Lentils are an easy and delicious vegan option for dinner or weekly meal prep!

Go to the recipe >>>

13. Honey Mustard Broccoli Salad – It’s that magic honey mustard sauce at it again… That sweet-salty-creamy-tangy dressing pairs perfectly with the slight bitterness of raw broccoli, plus crunchy almonds, tart dried cranberries, and savory red onions. If you think you don’t like broccoli, I challenge you to try this salad.

Honey Mustard Broccoli Salad

This crunchy, sweet, tangy, and creamy Honey Mustard Broccoli Salad only takes minutes to makes the perfect summer side dish.

Go to the recipe >>>

14. Balsamic Vinaigrette – After several people commented that the dressing from this Tomato Mozzarella Pasta Salad was the best dressing they’ve ever eaten, I decided to post the dressing on its own because you really will want to just pour it on everything. 

Easy Homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette

This super simple homemade balsamic vinaigrette is perfect for all your green salads and pasta salads and has several options for customizing!

Go to the recipe >>>

15. Vegan Creamy Mushroom Ramen – Who knew that adding coconut milk to ramen could be so magical?? This is by far the best ramen hack I’ve ever come across. It’s creamy, savory, and absolutely divine. (Check out my other ways to upgrade instant ramen here.)

Vegan Creamy Mushroom Ramen

This incredibly simple Vegan Creamy Mushroom Ramen is a rich and flavorful 15 minute meal that only requires a handful of ingredients! 

Go to the recipe >>>

16. Easy Rosemary Garlic White Bean Soup – Soups have always been a favorite food of mine because they’re always just so easy, but this soup takes the cake. It’s ridiculously simple, yet so creamy and delicious. Just a few simple ingredients and a quick 30 minutes to a hearty and comforting winter meal.

Easy Rosemary Garlic White Bean Soup

This incredibly easy Rosemary Garlic White Bean Soup takes only eight simple ingredients to deliver a bowl full of rich, bold flavor.

Go to the recipe >>>

17. Maple Brown Butter Pumpkin Pie – I have to admit, this one kind of surprised me, too. Just two simple ingredient swaps on a traditional pumpkin pie recipe really takes it to the next level. Make sure to bookmark this one for next year’s Thanksgiving!

Maple Brown Butter Pumpkin Pie

This Maple Brown Butter Pumpkin Pie is the perfect special touch for your Thanksgiving dinner, without adding a lot of extra work or unusual ingredients.

Go to the recipe >>>

18. Secret Ingredient Tomato Soup – There’s not one, but two secret ingredients that make this tomato soup ultra rich and flavorful. All without any butter or cream, I might add! 100% vegan. 

Secret Ingredient Tomato Soup

This super thick, warm, and comforting tomato soup has two secret ingredients that make it rich and delicious without any dairy. 100% vegan!

Go to the recipe >>>

19. One Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta – Who doesn’t love a rich and creamy pasta dish? And it’s even better when everything cooks in one pot. I think I would call this one the #1 weeknight dinner recipe of the year. 👌

One Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

This super lush and Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights. Everything cooks in one pot and is done in under 30 minutes! 

Go to the recipe >>>

20. Classic Baked Ziti – And last but not least, the ultimate comfort food, Baked Ziti. This casserole is super rich, cheesy deliciousness. And so much easier than layering lasagna! 😅

Classic Baked Ziti

Like a freeform lasagna, this Baked Ziti has layers of pasta, homemade red sauce with Italian sausage, and three types of melty cheese!

Go to the recipe >>>

And it would be just silly if I didn’t mention one of the best things to happen this year: Budget Bytes Meal Plans! If your goal for 2020 is to get organized and efficient, check out our 4-week dinner plans, complete with 6 dinner recipes per week, grocery lists, and suggestions for using up leftover ingredients! 

The post Top 20 Recipes of 2019 appeared first on Budget Bytes.

I talk about “refrigerator salads” a lot because they’re my favorite way to make sure I’m eating healthy even when I’m like, SUPER busy. I know I’ve turned a lot of you into refrigerator salad fans too, so I thought I’d round up my favorite refrigerator salads in one place to make them easy to find! Scroll on down to read more about what a refrigerator salad is, why I love them, and see what made the list!

What is a “Refrigerator Salad”

Simply put, a refrigerator salad is a salad that holds up well to refrigeration. It’s a salad that I make on Sunday and I can keep in my refrigerator for quick meals throughout the week (and by “throughout the week” I mean for the next four days or so). I try to keep one refrigerator salad prepared and waiting every week and it really helps me meet my daily vegetable goals (because honestly, if I didn’t have a salad ready to go in the fridge I’d probably just melt some cheese in a tortilla for dinner).

The Versatility of Refrigerator Salads

Another reason I love refrigerator salads is because they can be quite versatile. Many of them can be as a side dish with dinner, usd as a bed for some grilled chicken or a boiled egg for lunch, or stuffed into a wrap or pita and make a sandwich! So you can change it up throughout the week and prevent boredom.

How Long Do Refrigerator Salads Last?

The lifespan of each salad will vary and you can find more details on the best way to store each salad by clicking through to their blog post, but to make it into this “refrigerator salad” category, I picked salads that hold up well for at least three days of refrigeration. As with most prepared foods, I don’t suggest refrigerating longer than 5 days. The environment of your particular refrigerator and ingredient freshness can impact their longevity.

19 Refrigerator Salads for Eating Healthy on the Go!

*Vegan salads marked with an asterisk.

Lemony Artichoke and Quinoa Salad

This Lemony Artichoke and Quinoa Salad is a light and refreshing summer salad that holds up well in the refrigerator and is perfect for meal prep!

Go to the recipe >>>

Lemony Artichoke and Quinoa Salad* – This one is kind of like a cold version of my Spanish Chickpeas and Rice. Lemony, artichokey goodness with plenty of plant based protein to make it meal-worthy.

Honey Mustard Broccoli Salad

This crunchy, sweet, tangy, and creamy Honey Mustard Broccoli Salad only takes minutes to makes the perfect summer side dish.

Go to the recipe >>>

Honey Mustard Broccoli Salad – This salad is my new current obsession! The tangy, creamy, sweet Honey Mustard Sauce is the perfect pair for the crunchy bitter green flavor of fresh broccoli. You’ll be hitting those daily vegetable goals EASILY with this salad.

Tomato Mozzarella Pasta Salad

This Tomato Mozzarella Pasta Salad with homemade Parmesan Balsamic Vinaigrette is the perfect light and fresh summer meal. Perfect for potlucks!

Go to the recipe >>>

Tomato Mozzarella Pasta Salad – That dressing, tho… 🤤 This indulgent salad is kind of like a Caprese salad meets pasta salad. I like to add slices of grilled chicken to this one for a totally restaurant-worthy meal, but for a lot less $$$. Keep this one refrigerated sans dressing for optimal longevity if your fridge! 

Cold Peanut Noodle Salad

This Cold Peanut Noodle Salad with homemade peanut lime dressing is the perfect meal prep for summer! No reheating necessary.

Go to the recipe >>>

Cold Peanut Noodle Salad* – Eat the rainbow! This colorful salad tastes as festive as it looks. Super crunchy, full flavored goodness that is just as delish on day four as it was on day one! It’s super filling on its own, but would also be awesome with fried tofu cubes or shredded chicken.

Cucumber and Black Bean Salad

This light and fresh cucumber and black bean salad is the perfect summer side dish. It is refrigerator stable so make it once and snack on it all week!

Go to the recipe >>>

Cucumber and Black Bean Salad – Hello, SUMMER. I pretty much serve this as a side dish to everything during the summer months. The fresh cucumber and salty feta give this hearty black bean salad a 1-2 flavor punch. So simple, but SO good.

Parsley Salad with Almonds and Apricots

This Parsley Salad with Almonds and Apricots is savory, sweet, crunchy, and drenched in a tangy homemade vinaigrette! Holds up well to refrigeration and perfect for meal prep! 

Go to the recipe >>>

Parsley Salad with Almonds and Apricots* – This salad is so underrated. The bulgur (cracked wheat) makes this salad super hearty, while the fresh parsley keeps everything light and fresh. Crunchy almonds, sweet dried apricots, and a homemade vinaigrette give the salad plenty of flavor and texture. I love this salad throughout the fall and winter months because it doesn’t rely on a lot of fresh summery vegetables, like most salads.

Roasted Vegetable Couscous

Roasted Vegetable Couscous is an easy side dish with complex flavor, with sweet roasted vegetables mixed with savory, fluffy couscous.

Go to the recipe >>>

Roasted Vegetable Couscous* – When summer vegetables are at their peak, this salad is a staple! It makes a great side dish, a tasty bed for grilled meat, or a flavorful filling for wrap sandwiches!

Cowboy Caviar Recipe

Cowboy Caviar is like a cross between a bean salad and fresh salsa with its colorful mix of beans, vegetables, and a fresh lime infused dressing.

Go to the recipe >>>

Cowboy Caviar* – This potluck classic is one that I love to make year round. It has more color, texture, and flavor than any sald I’ve made, and is so good that I like to just scoop it up with chips. I love offering this salad as a “healthy” chip dip option at parties. Even if it’s a party of one. Me. I’m the party. 

Roasted Cauliflower and Quinoa Salad

This Roasted Cauliflower and Quinoa Salad holds up well in the refrigerator for days, making it perfect for meal prep or brown bagging your lunch. 

Go to the recipe >>>

Roasted Cauliflower and Quinoa Salad* – This totally killer salad has the amazing super power of being freezer friendly! Yes, you can FREEZE this salad! It may be the first of its kind. So keep a few portions of this on hand in your freezer for “emergencies.” 

Sweet Crunch Winter Salad

When fresh vegetables are in short supply, make this Sweet Crunch Winter Salad packed full of winter vegetables and a homemade Maple Tahini Dressing. 

Go to the recipe >>>

Sweet Crunch Winter Salad* – Another great winter refrigerator salad option! When the fresh, juicy, summer vegetables are long gone you can make delish salads using the hearty vegetables of fall and winter, like cabbage, carrots, and broccoli. 

Spinach and Orzo Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

A quick homemade balsamic vinaigrette makes this simple Spinach and Orzo Salad extra special. Serve as a light lunch or a side with dinner.

Go to the recipe >>>

Spinach and Orzo Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette – Talk about tangy goodness! Between the sun dried tomatoes, homemade balsamic vinaigrette, and feta, this salad is a tangy food lover’s dream. And if you don’t have orzo, you can always sub for another small pasta variety, like couscous or even bowtie! 

Super Fresh Cucumber Salad

Super Fresh Cucumber Salad is a cold, crunchy, juicy mix of flavorful vegetables topped with a simple red wine and oregano vinaigrette.

Go to the recipe >>>

Super Fresh Cucumber Salad – You may have seen me wax poetic about this salad on social media. It’s such a classic summer staple. The aroma of the fresh cucumber and tomato is so intoxicating to me and it fills my entire refrigerator with its “super fresh” aroma, that I want to just stand with the refrigerator door open and sniff. But then I remember that I get to eat it, too. WIN. 

Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing

This Roasted Cauliflower Salad combines sweet roasted red onions, spiced chickpeas, tender cauliflower, and a tangy lemon tahini dressing.

Go to the recipe >>>

Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing* – This is one of my most VIRAL recipes, and for good reason. It’s just freaking delicious! Thankfully it holds up well in the fridge, and it’s another great option for the winter months. :)

Quinoa Tabbouleh

Fresh and vibrantly flavored, this Quinoa Tabbouleh has all the familiar flavors of traditional tabbouleh, but with easy to cook and nutrient rich quinoa instead of bulgur.

Go to the recipe >>>

Quinoa Tabbouleh* – If you’re a lemon and garlic lover, this one is for you. The homemade dressing drenches everything in super tangy lemon garlic flavor, while the cucumbers and tomatoes help keep things light. I could eat my weight in tabbouleh!

Vinaigrette Slaw with Feta

This super simple three-ingredient cabbage salad is huge on flavor and is the perfect side for all of your summer grilling. This Vinaigrette slaw with Feta will become your easy go-to side dish.

Go to the recipe >>>

Vinaigrette Slaw with Feta – This salad is perhaps my favorite way to eat cabbage. Anytime I have leftover cabbage from another recipe, I make a batch of this Vinaigrette Slaw with Feta because it’s such a tasty snack, or side to go with my dinner. And it’s just so SIMPLE. 

Marinated Lentil Salad

Marinated Lentil Salad is bright and flavorful, and infused with bold flavors like garlic and lemon. 

Go to the recipe >>>

Marinated Lentil Salad – Most people only think of eating lentils hot, but they make a great (inexpensive) base for a salad when chilled! You can even add some fresh spinach if you want to up the greens in this salad.

Greek Chicken Pasta Salad

Greek Chicken Pasta Salad is the perfectly refreshing and filling summer meal with its medley of vegetables and tangy lemon garlic dressing.

Go to the recipe >>>

Greek Chicken Pasta Salad – Another reader fav! I love this salad as a light lunch, especially during the hot months of summer. It’s filling, fresh, and has everything you need in one bowl. You can swap chickpeas for the chicken to make it vegetarian!

Lemony Cucumber Couscous Salad

Lemony Cucumber Couscous Salad is a light, fresh, and vibrant pasta salad perfect for any summer meal. 

Go to the recipe >>>

Lemony Cucumber Couscous Salad – As soon as those summer cucumbers hit the market, this is the FIRST salad I make! It’s so fresh and delightful, with those cute little couscous pearls, I can never get enough. 

Apple Dijon Kale Salad

This Apple Dijon Kale Salad is tangy, sweet, and crunchy with Granny Smith apples, walnuts, raisins, and a homemade Dijon vinaigrette.

Go to the recipe >>>

Apple Dijon Kale Salad* – I know I’ve said every one of these is my favorite, but this one really holds a special place in my heart. Those tart apples, crunchy walnuts, sweet raisins, earthy kale, and tangy homemade vinaigrette come together for one of the tastiest salads EVER. The perfect salad for fall!

The post 19 Refrigerator Salads for Eating Healthy On The GO! appeared first on Budget Bytes.

“What’s for dinner?” It’s hard enough to answer that question when you’re by yourself, but when you live in a household with multiple dietary restrictions, it becomes a nightmare. What do you do? Cook a separate meal for each person? Let everyone just fend for themselves (ha, wouldn’t that be nice)? The answer is in finding flexible recipes that can be customized on each plate, according to each persons’ needs.

The most common request I get is for households with both vegetarians and omnivores, so I’ve compiled this list of flexible recipes that can feed both vegetarians and meat eaters, to hopefully make dinnertime a little easier. But I’ll also briefly outline how to make your own list, based on whatever dietary restrictions you’re working with.

How to Make Your Own Flexible Recipe List

Although this list was designed for the vegetarian/meat eater conundrum, a lot of these recipes will work for other dietary restrictions as well, especially recipes in the bowl meal category, since each serving is built to order. To make a list of flexible recipes for your dietary needs, first find recipes that satisfy the most restrictive dietary style, then list what you can add to the finished product to satisfy the less restrictive diets. For instance, list dairy-free recipes, then possible additions, like topping with cheese or sour cream, stirring cream or yogurt into a sauce, etc. 

Taking a few minutes to research and make your list ahead of time will save you a lot of agony later. For reference, we have categories for dairy-free, egg-free, gluten-free, and soy-free recipes on Budget Bytes. 

About Flexible Recipes

Most of these options start with a “base” recipe that is vegetarian, then list options for adding meat to the finished plate. For each recipe I’ll list which types of meat match the best, and any special instructions, if needed.

You will need to cook the meat or fish separately (unless using a store-bought rotisserie chicken), but this is still much faster and easier than cooking two entirely separate recipes. And if this is regular routine at your house, consider batch cooking your meat, dividing it, and freezing it, so small portions can be thawed and reheated each night.

I’ve divided this list between several categories, like Bowl Meals, Pasta Dishes, Soups & Stews, Salads, Stir Fries, and Other so you can easily find the recipes you like best.

Chicken Tips

TL;DR: Chicken can be added to just about anything! I reference “grilled chicken” often in this list, but if you don’t have a grill, you can use the quick skillet method for cooking chicken that I used in my Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Black Bean Salsa Recipe. Or quickly bake your chicken breasts like in my Garlic Herb Baked Chicken.

So, let’s get to it!

Flexible Recipes to Feed Vegetarians and Meat Eaters:

Bowl Meals

Poor Man's Burrito Bowls

These easy no-frills burrito bowls are super fast and affordable. They're the perfect satisfying weeknight meal for times when money is tight!

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Poor Man’s Burrito Bowls – This classic bowl meal is made for customization. Simply brown some ground beef (with or without taco seasoning) or Mexican Chorizo to add atop each bowl. Shredded or grilled chicken also works well with this dish.

Mediterranean Hummus Bowls

Just about any protein or vegetable can be added to these filling and tasty Mediterranean Hummus Bowls to make them your own and use up your leftovers!

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Mediterranean Hummus Bowls – The original recipe calls for ground beef, but these tasty and colorful bowls are just as great when you skip the beef. You can add a soft or hard boiled egg for extra protein, and/or double up on the veggies to bulk it out.

Sushi Bowls with Sriracha Mayo

Sushi Bowls are a fast, easy, and inexpensive alternative to your favorite sushi bar. Get your sushi fix without spending a fortune. 

Go to the recipe >>>

Sushi Bowls – Edamame or even scrambled egg makes a wonderful protein alternative to fish in these delish Sushi Bowls. Each bowl is made to order, so they’re a breeze to customize to each eater! 

Loaded Mashed Potato Bowls

Creamy potatoes make the perfect base for a pile of colorful and flavorful toppings in these Loaded Mashed Potato Bowls. Perfect for meal prep! 

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Loaded Mashed Potato Bowls – This is a vegetarian take on a dish that KFC used to make, so it only makes sense that chicken would be a great addition for your meat eaters. I love the idea of doing some Baked Chicken Nuggets on top, but to make life easier you could always do shredded rotisserie chicken, or sliced or diced grilled chicken breast.

Coconut Jerk Peas with Pineapple Salsa

These rich and spicy Coconut Jerk Peas are super simple to make and pair brilliantly with a sweet and vibrant pineapple salsa. 

Go to the recipe >>>

Coconut Jerk Peas with Pineapple Salsa – Jerk seasoning goes great with chicken, so simply adding some grilled chicken breast or shredded rotisserie chicken is an easy answer for this recipe!

Pasta Dishes

Bowties and Broccoli

This insanely simple dinner "cheat" is ready in minutes and will keep you full for hours. Bowties and Broccoli is my go-to lazy weeknight dinner.

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Bowties and Broccoli – This is my go-to emergency meal when I’m too tired to eat or have a nearly empty fridge. It only takes a few minutes more to brown up some flavorful Italian sausage to add to your bowl. Grilled or rotisserie chicken is also an easy addition!

Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta

Easier than a box meal, this creamy tomato and spinach pasta is also more flavorful and delicious. 100% real ingredients.

Go to the recipe >>>

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta – We’ve had so many wonderful suggestions from readers over the years about how they like to add meat to this recipe. Italian sausage and chicken are the top picks, both of which you can cook separately and add to the bowl after for those who want it.

Spinach Artichoke Pasta

It's like having your favorite restaurant appetizer for dinner! Spinach artichoke pasta is filling, flavorful, and creamy!

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Spinach Artichoke Pasta – This pasta is like your favorite spinach artichoke dip appetizer turned main dish. It’s just begging for some grilled chicken on top, or even some salmon or crab!

Tuscan White Bean Pasta

This Tuscan White Bean Pasta is a fast and flavorful dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners. The caramelized garlic, basil, and Parmesan pack a huge flavor punch! 

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Tuscan White Bean Pasta – Another pasta that would be great topped with some sliced grilled chicken breast, but if you have the budget, some scallops quickly seared in a skillet would also be amazing with this pasta.

Lighter Spinach Alfredo Pasta

Creamy and rich, yet never heavy, this Lighter Spinach Alfredo Pasta is an easy and satisfying comfort food. 

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Lighter Spinach Alfredo Pasta – Grilled chicken breast is the answer again! There’s no question, chicken and pasta go together like salt and pepper. You can also try my Garlic Herb Baked Chicken with this delicious creamy pasta.

Garlic Parmesan Kale Pasta

When you're in a hurry, this Garlic Parmesan Kale Pasta is a filling and flavorful meal. Few ingredients, BIG flavor. 

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Garlic Parmesan Kale Pasta – Grilled chicken, as always, but you can also check out how I meal prepped this one with my Garlic Marinated Chicken.

Dragon Noodles

These sweet, tangy, and spicy Dragon Noodles take only a few minutes to whip up and will kill your craving for take-out.

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Dragon Noodles – Dragon noodles are such a classic and they go with so many different proteins! Shrimp and ground pork are my favorite add-ins. While I usually cook those in the same skillet as the noodles, they can easily be cooked separately and added to each plate at the end.

Broccoli Shells n' Cheese

Broccoli shells n' cheese is a classic American dish that goes well along side any meal, or as a hearty side dish. 100% real, 100% homemade.

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Broccoli Shells and Cheese – Chicken and bacon are both great with macaroni and cheese, but even something like diced ham would be a good add-in.

Soups & Stews

Slow Simmered Black Eye Peas and Greens

Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas and Greens is a great cold weather comfort food that is as healthy as it is delicious! Vegan comfort food at its best! 

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Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas – This recipe is so filling and hearty that your meat eaters probably won’t even miss the meat, but if they do, a little sliced and browned smoked sausage would be ah-maz-ing with these scrumptious stewed peas.

Garden Vegetable Lasagna Soup

This Garden Vegetable Lasagna Soup is packed full of vegetables and lasagna flavor, plus a hidden dollop of melty three cheese ricotta blend!

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Garden Vegetable Lasagna Soup – What goes better with lasagna than Italian Sausage? Simply brown up some Italian sausage in a separate skillet and add a spoonful or two to each bowl for those who want it. Sweet, spicy, or mild Italian sausage would all be great.

Vegan West African Peanut Stew

With a rich peanut and tomato sauce, sweet potatoes, collard greens, and crunchy peanuts, this Vegan West African Peanut Stew is comfort in a bowl! 

Go to the recipe >>>

Vegan West African Peanut Stew – I actually had a comment just the other day from a reader who said they routinely make this recipe to satisfy their household of mixed eaters. Shredded rotisserie chicken is their add-in of choice, and I have to agree. The soup has such powerful flavors on its own that you want to use a more mild meat.

Chunky Lentil and Vegetable Soup

This Chunky Lentil and Vegetable Soup is packed with hearty flavor, texture, and good-for-you vegetables! 

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Chunky Lentil Vegetable Soup – This is another recipe that often gets high marks in its vegetarian form from both meat eaters and vegetarians. But I also have a similar soup that contains Italian sausage, so I think Italian sausage would be a great add-in here as well.

Thai Curry Vegetable Soup

This Thai Curry Vegetable Soup is packed with vegetables, spicy Thai flavor, and creamy coconut milk. Ready in about 30 minutes! 

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Thai Curry Vegetable Soup – Shrimp! This one is begging for shrimp. Quickly sauté some shrimp in a separate skillet, or use pre-cooked frozen shrimp (thawed, of course) to add to individual bowls. I think rotisserie chicken wouldn’t be so bad, either.

Salads

Grilled Vegetable Pasta Salad

This classic summer Grilled Vegetable Pasta Salad features smoky fire licked vegetables and a homemade creamy balsamic vinaigrette. 

Go to the recipe >>>

Grilled Vegetable Pasta Salad – As I established earlier, grilled chicken goes with just about any pasta dish, but I think smoked sausage would be a more interesting choice here. Slice and brown some sausage in a separate skillet, and add to the plate for those who like it.

Apple Dijon Kale Salad

This Apple Dijon Kale Salad is tangy, sweet, and crunchy with Granny Smith apples, walnuts, raisins, and a homemade Dijon vinaigrette.

Go to the recipe >>>

Apple Dijon Kale Salad – Chicken is a natural fit for cold crunchy salads. Shredded rotisserie, sliced, or diced grilled chicken are all great. 

Cold Peanut Noodle Salad

This Cold Peanut Noodle Salad with homemade peanut lime dressing is the perfect meal prep for summer! No reheating necessary.

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Cold Peanut Noodle Salad – Chicken wins again with these cold dishes. The peanut lime dressing in this salad has wonderfully strong flavors, so you don’t want to overpower it with a meat choice that is overly flavorful. Shredded rotisserie chicken would stir really well into the textures of this salad.

"Sweep the Kitchen" Pasta Salad

Throw together meals like this "Sweep the Kitchen" Pasta Salad are my favorite way to use up leftovers in the kitchen. Easy, versatile, and never boring! 

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Sweep the Kitchen Pasta Salad – Literally any meat you have already cooked! Okay, I say that not knowing what you have in your fridge, but the idea behind this salad is that you’re using up your leftovers to make a monster pasta salad. Salami and other deli meats tend to go great in pasta salads!

Creamy Lemon Dill Greek Pasta Salad

Creamy Lemon Dill Greek Pasta Salad is packed with bold flavors and fresh vegetables, making it a delicious light lunch. 

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Creamy Lemon Dill Pasta Salad – Plain grilled or rotisserie chicken is great, but Garlic Marinated Chicken is even better!

Stir Fries

Spicy Coconut Vegetable Stir Fry

This rich and spicy coconut vegetable stir fry is adaptable to whatever vegetables are lingering in your fridge, making it a great sweep the kitchen recipe!

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Spicy Coconut Vegetable Stir Fry – Again, chicken is going to be the obvious answer (I’d do shredded rotisserie chicken here), but shrimp is more fun! Sautéed in a separate skillet, then added on top of your bowl, or pre-cooked frozen (thawed) shrimp stirred in.

Sweet Chili Tofu Bowls

Sweet Chili Tofu Bowls are a fast, fresh, and flavorful dinner packed with vibrant colors and nutrients. 

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Sweet Chili Tofu Bowls – Chicken takes only minutes to stir fry, so cook some up in a separate skillet, add a little extra sweet chili sauce, and then you can easily build two versions of the same bowl.

Salad Bar Vegetable Lo Mein

When you need dinner to be fast, easy, and satisfying, this Salad Bar Vegetable Lo Mein is your answer. It's as simple and satisfying as it gets!

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Salad Bar Vegetable Lo Mein – Chicken or shrimp, quickly sautéed in a separate skillet is your ticket with this meal! 

Simple Mushroom Broccoli Stir Fry Noodles

With just a few ingredients you can make these easy and delicious Mushroom Broccoli Stir Fry Noodles for a fast weeknight dinner.

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Simple Mushroom Broccoli Stir Fry Noodles – I love the idea of ground beef with this recipe. Make a double batch of the sauce, then brown one pound of ground beef and add half of the sauce once browned. Continue to cook until that sauce thickens up, then spoon the sauced beef over the mushroom and broccoli noodles!

Other

Roasted Vegetable Couscous Meal Prep

Roasted Vegetable Couscous Meal Prep is a super filling, veggie-packed meal that can be made with chicken or vegetarian with chickpeas. 

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Roasted Vegetable Couscous Meal Prep – Although it was designed as a meal prep, you can actually serve it on a regular plate for dinner. #sarcasm This recipe has both the vegetarian and meat-eater versions built right in, so click over to the recipe to read the details!

Loaded Sweet Potatoes with Lime Crema

Loaded Sweet Potatoes are the perfect pre-portioned item for your weekly meal prep. They reheat well and can be customized to fit your needs. 

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Loaded Sweet Potatoes with Lime Crema – These loaded sweet potatoes are kind of like a self contained bowl meal! Each person can customize their potato to their liking. Browned Mexican chorizo would be seriously amazing with these flavors!

Easy French Bread Pizza

French Bread Pizza is the perfect budget-friendly fast and easy weeknight dinner. Customize the toppings to fit your taste buds or what you have on hand! 

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French Bread Pizza – Who doesn’t love a “Make Your Own Pizza” night?? Probably the easiest customizable dinner around. Plus, you can grab a handful of whatever toppings you want from a salad bar, and not have any leftovers. Try adding pepperoni, sausage, chicken, ham, or any deli meat to your pizza.

Spicy Baked Black Bean Nachos

For the perfect Spicy Baked Black Bean Nachos, layer your chips and toppings for the perfect chip-to-topping ratio.

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Spicy Black Bean Nachos – Bake the vegetarian nachos as written, then top the individual plates with browned ground beef or Mexican chorizo. YUM. 

Easy Oven Fajitas

These Easy Oven Fajitas are a simple "set it and forget it" way to get that smoky sweet flavor of traditional griddle fajitas.

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Easy Oven Fajitas – This is a chicken recipe as written, but you can separate the vegetables and chicken onto two baking sheets so eaters can customize their fajitas to their liking without having the ingredients touch. I also do a version with sliced portobello mushrooms, so you can also add that to the vegetable mix!

Make Ahead Bean and Cheese Burritos

Perfect for stashing in the freezer, these Make Ahead Bean and Cheese Burritos will save you on busy weeknights!

Go to the recipe >>>

Make Ahead Bean and Cheese Burritos – Each burrito can be easily customized to include ground beef, chicken, or chorizo. Just make sure to keep everything properly labeled so there are no surprises later!

What about you? What are your favorite ways to customize recipes to meet the needs of your household, without having to cook multiple recipes every night? Share your expertise in the comments below, and help a friend out! :)

The post Flexible Recipes that Feed Vegetarians and Meat Eaters appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Some of my favorite emails from readers are the ones describing how learning to cook together as a couple has been a highlight of their relationship (I even got invited to a wedding once!). Every task is more fun when you do it with a friend, and cooking together is one where you’ll learn about yourself and each other in the process. AND you get to enjoy a really awesome meal when you’re done. So, crack a bottle of wine, pick one of these 10 Date Night Dinner Ideas, and have fun cooking dinner together tonight! 

What Makes a Great Date Night Dinner?

My criteria for these Date Night Dinner Ideas is that they be at least a little bit fancy (no hamburger helper style meals here), but still very easy. Because while you want to make a really awesome meal, you don’t want it to be so complicated that you can’t have fun or interact with your partner. ;) I kept the sides simple, again to reduce stress, but you can always add more when your skills improve!

Date Night for Less than $15

Most of these dinners will cost less than $15, depending on how stocked your pantry is or what prices are like in your area, but I can pretty much guarantee that it will be less than half the cost of going out to eat. Plus, most of these dinners make 4-6 servings, so you’ll have a couple servings leftover to eat for lunch the next day, allowing you to relive the magic of the night before. ;)

13 Date Night Dinner Ideas for Valentine’s Day and Beyond:

Sheet Pan Pesto Chicken Dinner – This recipe has everything you need for a full dinner in one recipe. The chicken, potatoes, and tomatoes roast together on one sheet pan as you whip up a simple salad for the side. This is restaurant quality goods with very little effort, so you can chat up you date while the food roasts. Approximate cost: $11.99

Blackened Shrimp Pasta with Homemade Garlic Bread – If you can’t afford a romantic weekend getaway to New Orleans, bring it into your kitchen with this super simple Blackened Shrimp Pasta and a side of buttery Homemade Garlic Bread. Besides, date night is definitely a good excuse to splurge on shrimp! Approximate cost: $10.53

20 Minute Honey Mustard Chicken with Parsley Salad with Almonds and Apricots – Pan sauces are a great technique to learn for new cooks, so if you and your sweetheart are new in the kitchen, this 20 Minute Honey Mustard Chicken is a great place to start. It’s fast, easy, and you get a super luscious pan sauce as a result. Pair it with this Parsley Salad with Almonds and Apricots to play up the sweet-savory flavor combo and you’ll feel like you’re at a fancy bistro. Approximate cost: $9.56

Spinach and Feta Turkey Meatballs, with pasta, marinara, and sautéed zucchini – This is one of my favorite meals, so easy and tasty! You’ll find the recipe for the meatballs in the link above, but I simply paired it with 8 oz. pasta (cooked), a store-bought jar of marinara, and then I quickly sautéed about a pound of sliced zucchini in the skillet after browning the meatballs. Super easy! Approximate cost: $12.26

Ravioli with Sage Brown Butter Sauce and Homemade Garlic Bread – This Ravioli with Sage Brown Butter Sauce is the epitome of low maintenance meals that feel fancier than they really are, making it perfect for date night! Pair it with some simple garlic bread on the side and you’re good to go! Approximate cost: $5.30

Blackberry Sage Pork Chops with Maple Brown Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes – The sauce on these pork chops is soooo good, it will make your date weak in the knees! It’s sweet, savory, rich, and perfect for spooning over the nutty flavor of the Maple Brown Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes. It’s a match made in heaven (like you two!). Approximate cost: $12.02

Sushi Bowls with Sriracha Mayo and Sesame Slaw – Sushi is a really fun project to learn together in general, but if you’re not quite up for the rolling technique yet, you can do your sushi bowl-style! It’s really easy and you can customize the toppings based on your preferences. Sushi Bowls are kind of a meal on their own, but if you want to bulk up your meal a bit, Sesame Slaw makes a nice side. And if you happen to be near a Trader Joes, their frozen gyoza are THE BOMB and would go great with both of these recipes. Approximate cost: $14.05

Fresh Tomato Basil Pasta with Ricotta and Homemade Garlic Bread – This Fresh Tomato Basil Pasta with Ricotta is ridiculously simple, but the addition of fresh basil and creamy ricotta makes it just a little extra special. I would splurge on good Ricotta for this one to take it over the top. Pair it with some simple Garlic Bread for a classic, light, summery date night dinner. Approximate cost: $11.12

Sweet Potato Tacos with Lime Crema and Cilantro Lime Rice – Tacos for date night?? YEAH! Who doesn’t love tacos?? Plus when you’re making tacos with love, they’re totally special enough for date night. Make sure to give those corn tortillas a good char for that extra special touch, and I promise this will be a meal to remember. Plus, this one is really easy to make vegan if you swap out the regular sour cream for a vegan sour cream alternative. :) Approximate cost: $7.13

Chicken Piccata with Parsley Pesto Pasta – Chicken Piccata is another example of a recipe where a simple pan sauce transforms a plain piece of meat into something seriously special. Drizzle that sauce all over your plate and the Parsley Pesto Pasta for maximum yumminess! Approximate cost: $11.45

Pasta with 5 Ingredient Butter Tomato Sauce and Homemade Garlic Bread – If you and your date are true beginners in the kitchen, this recipe is a great place to start. You’ll have fun making your pasta sauce “from scratch” and you’ll be amazed at just how rich and flavorful it can be with so few ingredients. Pair it with the classic homemade garlic bread and you will have mastered Cooking for Couples 101. Approximate cost: $9.69

Maple Dijon Chicken Thighs with Carrot Orzo Salad – These Maple Dijon Chicken Thighs look a lot fancier than they really are. Just mix up a quick sauce, poor it over the chicken, and let the oven do the rest of the work while you chat up your date. :) This one is just begging for a crisp white wine, so pair it with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or one of my favorites, Albariño. Approximate cost: $10.77

Tuscan White Bean Pasta with Homemade Garlic Bread – Just look at how pretty this dish is! I mean, if you want to impress your date or even just impress yourself with the cooking skills you’ve gained, make this amazing Tuscan White Bean Pasta. Your date will be “picture perfect.” Again I paired this with a simple Homemade Garlic Bread because we don’t want to get too complicated and garlic bread is a must with a big plate of pasta! Approximate cost: $8.88

Want Dessert?

I have to admit that I don’t cook a lot of desserts, but here are two really great options that aren’t too complicated and the flavors are universal enough to go with just about any meal:

Fudge Brownie Pots for Two

Strawberry Shortcake 

Also, check out my friend’s blog, Dessert For Two, for lots of great dessert (and dinner) ideas for two! She knows what’s up!

Share for fun…

And just for fun, if you want to share how cooking together has brought you and a loved one (anyone, not just a date) together, or you have a funny date night dinner story, feel free to share them in the comments below!

The post 13 Date Night Dinner Ideas for Valentine’s Day and Beyond appeared first on Budget Bytes.

One of the biggest hurdles most people encounter when contemplating a vegetarian lifestyle, or even just practicing a “meatless Monday” is the question, “Where would I get my protein?” So I wanted to write this quick, non-definitive guide to plant based proteins to show that it’s a lot easier than you think. I’ve rounded up these five food groups, which can provide a good source of plant-based proteins and, when used in a balanced and varied diet, can provide all the protein you need.

We tend to box food into groups like “carb” “fat” or “protein,” but the truth is that most foods contain a mixture of these nutrients. So I’m hoping you’ll find some surprise protein sources in the list below, which will in turn give you more options and flexibility when creating your budget-friendly meals. Replacing some or all animal proteins with plant proteins can be very cost effective, and has been a valuable strategy for keeping my budget in check over the years.

The nutrient values listed in the examples below are estimates and have been sourced from the USDA Food Composition Databases.

5 Easy Sources of Plant-Based Protein

Pictured: Vegetarian 15 Bean Soup

Beans and Lentils

Beans and lentils are probably the most commonly known source of plant-based protein, and my favorite way to increase the protein content of my food while keeping costs low. Beans and lentils are extremely inexpensive, provide a ton of nutrients like fiber and minerals, and are very shelf stable.

How to Use Beans and Lentils

One of my favorite cost-cutting tricks is to replace half of the ground meat in recipes with either lentils or black beans (see: Sloppy Joe’s Plus, Baked Beef and Black Bean Tacos, Snap Challenge One Pot Chili Pasta). Beans and lentils also make the most hearty and satisfying soups and stews. Some of the least expensive and most loved recipes on this website are bean or lentil based soups. Plus, they also tend to be very easy to make (see: Winter Lentil Vegetable Stew, Slow Cooker Lentil Vegetarian Chili, Smoky Potato and Chickpea Stew). But beans aren’t just for soups and stews. Browse my entire collection of Bean Recipes and Lentil Recipes for more ideas.

Examples of Bean Protein Contents (per 1/2 cup cooked):

• Chickpeas – 7 grams
• Kidney Beans – 7.5 grams
• Brown Lentils – 9 grams
• Black Beans – 7.5 grams

Pictured: Soy Marinated Tofu Bowls

Soy

While technically a bean, there are so many different soy based products available on the market that I decided it needed a mention of its own. In addition to the fresh whole bean form (often called edamame), soy beans can be made into tofu, tempeh, soy milk, and more. Soy products are generally less expensive than meat and because their popularity has been booming over the past few decades, they can be found in most major grocery stores. This wide range of products makes it easy to work a little more soy into your meal plan.

How to Use Soy Products

Frozen, shelled Edamame makes an easy protein filled snack, or they can be added to salads or bowl meals (see: Sesame Slaw, Spicy Tuna Guacamole Bowls). Tofu has a very unique texture that can take some getting used to, but once you do it’s quite versatile. I use it in stir fries, dips, sandwiches, and more (see: Pan Fried Sesame Tofu with Broccoli, Curried Tofu Salad, BBQ Tofu Sliders). If you’re not a fan of tofu’s texture, definitely check out tempeh, which is a fermented soy bean product. It’s a great addition to stir fries, sandwiches, and more (see: Sweet and Spicy Tempeh Bowls, Buffalo Tempeh Sandwiches). Soy milk can be used in many recipes in place of dairy milk, although it can be a little less creamy, so the results may be subjective. I think soy milk works great in recipes like overnight oats, baked oatmeal, and smoothies (see: Golden Milk Overnight Oats, Pumpkin Smoothie, Oatmeal Cookie Baked Oatmeal).

Examples of Soy Product Protein Contents:

• Shelled Edamame (1/2 cup) – 9 grams
• Extra Firm Tofu (3 oz.) – 9 grams
• Tempeh (3 oz.) – 16 grams
• Soy Milk (1 cup) – 7 grams

Pictured: Parsley Salad with Almonds and Apricots

Whole Grains

Most people think of grains as a “carb” but when you consume them in whole form, they can provide a significant amount of protein as well. Like beans and lentils, whole grains are very inexpensive and shelf stable, making them a budget powerhouse ingredient. Build your meals on a base of whole grains and you’ll have a very filling meal that costs just pennies. Brown rice is a common whole grain, but you should also consider branching out to other grains like quinoa (technically a seed, but cooked and used like a grain), farro, and bulgur (cracked wheat). And of course there is the always versatile oat!

How to Use Whole Grains

Cooked and cooled grains make an excellent addition to salads, taking them from a “side” to a “main dish” (see: Roasted Cauliflower and Quinoa Salad,  Parsley Salad with Almonds and Apricots, Mediterranean Farro Salad with Spiced Chickpeas). I also love switching up the base for my bowl meals to include a variety of grains (see: Soy Marinated Tofu Bowls, Sweet Potato Grain Bowls with Green Tahini Sauce). Grains make a great breakfast, too! In addition to the million ways to use oats, I’ve enjoyed both quinoa and farro for breakfast (see: Apple Nut Quinoa, Banana Nut Breakfast Farro).

Examples of Whole Grain Protein Contents:

• Quick Oats (1 cup cooked) – 6 grams
• Oat Bran (1 cup cooked) – 7 grams
• Bulgur (1 cup cooked) – 5.5 grams
• Brown Rice (1 cup cooked) – 5.5 grams
• Quinoa (1 cup cooked) – 8 grams

Vegetables

Vegetables are usually the last place people expect to find significant amounts of protein, but some vegetables contain a surprising amount! Add fresh or frozen vegetables to your pastas, salads, soups, casseroles, and more. I keep frozen vegetables on hand at all times to add to whatever I might be cooking for a quick nutrient boost. Here are some vegetables that you can add to your plate to help to your daily protein intake:

• Russet Potatoes (large, 3-4.25″, baked) – 8 grams
• Broccoli (1 cup cooked) – 4 grams
• Sweet Peas (1 cup cooked) – 5 grams
• Kale (1 cup cooked) – 3.5 grams
• White Mushrooms (1 cup raw) – 3 grams
• Brussels Sprouts (1 cup cooked) – 4 grams
• Spinach (1 cup cooked) – 5 grams

Pictured: Make Ahead Seeded Oats

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are a concentrated source of plant-based protein, but they are also one of the most expensive. Luckily they’re fairly shelf stable, and can often be kept in the freezer for even longer periods. In addition to protein, nuts and seeds provide plenty of fiber, healthy fats, and minerals. Whether you’re using nut butters or whole nuts and seeds, adding just a tablespoon or two to your meals each day can go a long way.

How to Use Nuts and Seeds

I like to stir chia, hemp, or flaxseeds into my morning oats or smoothies (see: Make Ahead Seeded Oats, No Sugar Added Blueberry Almond Overnight Oats, Pumpkin Smoothie). I’ve also been successful in adding seeds to a variety of baked goods, like my Seeded No-Knead Bread or Apple Flax Muffins. Sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds are great for adding to salads and bowl meals for extra crunch. And of course there are nut butters, which are great for much more than toast! I use peanut butter in sauces, stews, and baked goods (see: Spicy Coconut Vegetable Stir Fry, African Peanut Stew, Peanut Butter Brownie Baked Oatmeal).

Examples of Nut and Seed Protein Contents:

• Peanut Butter (2 Tbsp) – 7 grams
• Almond Butter (2 Tbsp) – 7 grams
• Chia Seeds (1 oz.) – 4.5 grams
• Flaxseed (2 Tbsp ground) – 2.5 grams
• Hempseed (2 Tbsp, hulled) – 6.5 grams
• Pumpkin Seeds (2 Tbsp) – 5 grams

And that’s it! With all of these choices you can switch up your protein sources often and find a mix that fits your budget, taste buds, and dietary needs.

If you’re a veteran of the vegetarian lifestyle, share your favorite plant-based protein sources in the comments below so we can all learn from each other! 

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Whoa. Did you just see that?? That bright flash was 2018, gone just as quickly as it came. 2018 was kind of a wild ride, but it left me with a lot to be grateful for, including some really killer recipes. :) Each year I like to go back through the archives and compile my favorite recipes from the previous year as a way to say, “Hey, if you haven’t tried these yet, YOU’RE MISSING OUT.” So, are you ready for some recipe FOMO? Then scroll down for the Best of Budget Bytes 2018, 25 of the most amazing recipes of the year! …if I do say so myself. 😅

P.S. I had a couple more recipes scheduled for this last week of the year, but my computer finally died completely yesterday, so I’ll be without photo editing capabilities until I can get it fixed. I hope this tides you over until then!

Best of Budget Bytes 2018

According to me, In chronological order. 

Pork and Peanut Dragon Noodles – I can’t believe this recipe has only been in my life for one year. I honestly don’t remember life before it. Yes, it is that epic. Try it and try it NOW. (If you’re a vegetarian and still haven’t tried the original Dragon Noodles recipe, try it and try it NOW.)

Sheet Pan BBQ Meatloaf Dinner – The easiest, tastiest dinner EVER. Everything you see on that plate cooks on one sheet pan, making it super low effort, and with barely anything to clean up. Don’t believe me? Click over to the blog post to see the video of how it’s done.

“All You Can Eat” Cabbage Soup – Eat as much as you want of this soup and it will barely make a dent in your budget, or your diet. It’s full of nothing but the good stuff (vegetables) which also happen to be super inexpensive. Win-win.

Slow Simmered Black Eyed Peas and Greens – I love a good pot of beans. They’re tasty, filling, good for you, and super inexpensive. But this pot right here, might be one of my all-time favorites yet. Not only are the black eyed peas tasty on their own, but I went one step further and added some hearty greens to make this a super well-rounded bowl of goodness. Plus they freeze great, so you just can’t lose here.

Herb Butter Chicken Thighs – If there’s one skill you need to know for tasty weeknight dinners, it’s how to make a quick pan sauce. This recipe for Herb Butter Chicken Thighs uses the quick pan sauce method to turn boring thighs into something truly mouth-watering. And once you know how to make a pan sauce, you can make a different flavor every time!

Scallion Herb Cream Cheese Spread – This one hasn’t gotten a lot of attention or traffic, but it is definitely one of my favorites. If you like cream cheese, this is like taking your cream cheese up ten levels. Plus I like that it gives me a way to use up the extra parsley and cilantro that I seem to have in my refrigerator at all times. Oh, and if you don’t already have lemons on hand in your freezer for making recipes like this, you should definitely be freezing your whole lemons.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup – This is a great year-round soup because it’s filling and flavorful, yet still light and fresh. Bookmark this recipe so that when it’s 90 degrees out in the middle of the summer you can pull out your slow cooker and make this awesome meal without heating up the kitchen.

Easiest Burrito Bowl Meal Prep – Burrito bowls are the king of meal prep. They’re so easy and full of so many flavors. And I don’t know about you, but somehow I never get tired of variations on the beans and rice theme, so I can eat this every day for a week and love it no less. :P

Thai Coconut Curry Carrot Soup – Look at that gorgeousness. 😍 And I promise the flavors are just as vibrant and amazing as the photo. A little bit of spicy Thai curry, creamy coconut to cool you down, and the subtle sweetness of carrot and sweet potato. It’s a silky smooth bowl of heaven.

Garlicky Kale and Ricotta Pizza – Don’t hate, kale on pizza is GOOD. Especially when paired with that creamy ricotta. I dare you to try it.

Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Black Bean Salsa – Oh man! Just looking at this photo is making me long for summer! This recipe is so fresh and vibrant, and packs up for a really nice meal prep if needed. Cook the chicken in a skillet, or outside on your grill if the weather permits! (Summer, I’m coming for you!!)

Beef Kofta Meatballs with Roasted Vegetables – The spice mix in these meatballs is just 👌Definitely a change of pace from your usual Italian style meatball, and they pair so nicely with the charred edges of the roasted vegetables. This is a picture of what I might consider a perfect meal.

Curried Tofu Salad – If there was a yearly award for “most surprisingly delicious” this one would definitely win. I wanted to experiment with an egg-like tofu salad, but I never expected to fall this much in love with it. It’s just so surprisingly light and refreshing, while also being quite filling, making it perfect as a snack or lunch main. I’d eat that whole bowl if left alone with it unsupervised.

Spinach Feta and Turkey Meatballs – Not going to lie, 2018 was the year of the meatball in this house. I just became obsessed with them for some reason, but I’m not sorry about it. These Spinach Feta and Turkey Meatballs are, without a doubt, one of my favorite meatballs. Plus they just make for such an easy weeknight dinner!

Slow Cooker Vegetarian Lentil Chili – Who doesn’t love a good slow cooker recipe? And who doesn’t love chili?? Bring ’em both together and you’ve got a winner. This vegetarian chili is a nutrition powerhouse AND extremely inexpensive, which gives you a little wiggle room to go a little nuts with the toppings. ;)

20-Minute Honey Mustard Chicken – More pan sauces to the rescue! Dinner is so fast and easy when you make a simple pan sauce. This one is both savory and sweet, with a little bit of tang from the mustard. SO GOOD. Pair it with a salad and a dinner roll, and you’re DONE.

Creamy Salsa Chicken Skillet – A jar of salsa is a highly underrated and versatile ingredient, and it tastes good on pretty much everything. The salsa in this recipe becomes a quick and easy creamy sauce for pan seared chicken, which you can then just eat as is or spoon over a bed of hot rice (I vote for rice!).

Sheet Pan Pesto Chicken Dinner – Would you believe that this one cooks on just one sheet pan as well?? Aside from the salad, of course. Such an elegant dinner, worthy of any date night, and so easy to prepare. Keep this one bookmarked for Valentine’s Day!!

Sweet and Spicy Glazed Chicken Thighs – For years people have been asking me if they could use the spice rub from my Glazed Pork Chops on chicken and I finally decided to show you instead of just tell you “yes.” I think I might even like the chicken better than the pork chops!!

One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta – My favorite “one pot” pasta yet? Those are strong words, but I stand behind them. A homemade Cajun seasoning blend makes this pasta fiery delicious, while the creaminess of cream cheese keeps everything cool. This is one is definitely worthy of your weekly rotation.

Vegan Winter Lentil Vegetable Stew – I declared this my favorite soup/stew of the year as soon as I made it, and I haven’t changed my mind about that. There is so much flavor and texture going on here that you won’t even notice there is no meat. Every time I make this I want to eat bowl after bowl after bowl!

Fluffy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes – I finally unlocked the secret to super light and fluffy mashed potatoes. It’s all about rinsing, not once, but TWICE during the process. I won’t even tell you how many times I made these mashed potatoes this winter, but you might need two hands to count the number. Once I got a taste I just couldn’t get enough.

Ravioli with Sage Brown Butter Sauce, Spinach, and Walnuts – I know I’ve said it before, but brown butter is MAGIC. In this recipe it creates a light, nutty sauce that drenches ravioli and spinach, for a super simple and elegant meal. I hope Aldi carries their butternut squash ravioli all year because I want to put this one on repeat!

Giant Slow Cooker Meatballs – I told you that 2018 was the year of the meatball. These giant slow cooker meatballs are not only fun, but they cook in the slow cooker, making them ridiculously simple. This is what easy dinners are all about.

Spicy Coconut Vegetable Stir Fry – Because I can never have too many recipes that use up whatever vegetables I have on hand. And this sauce, OH THIS SAUCE. Pure spicy coconut heaven. You’ll be slurping it up before it even gets to your bowl.

What was your favorite thin you cooked (from any recipe website) in 2018? Drop the link in the comments below! I love to see what you’ve been cooking! :)

The post Best of Budget Bytes 2018 appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Take out food is so tempting because it’s fast, easy, and usually very satisfying (the most comforting of all comfort food). But it can also be a budget killer. So, when you’re tempted to dial for take out or you find yourself browsing Postmates, consider making one of these easy take out fake out recipes so you can stay in control of your budget (and diet). 

What is my criteria for take out fake out recipes? It has to be simple, totally delish, and similar in style to the take out classics we’ve all grown to love. Get your bookmarks ready!

Take Out Fake Out Recipes for Busy Nights

Pictured: Pork and Peanut Dragon Noodles

Pizza

Pictured: Garlicky Kale and Ricotta Pizza

Pizza is probably the hardest take out for me to resist, but luckily I’ve grown quite fond of making it at home, and have even come up with a few valuable shortcuts. I love my Thin and Crispy Pizza Crust for last minute pizzas because it takes less than 30 minutes and requires no rising. Top it with whatever you’ve got in the fridge, or hit the grocery store salad bar on the way home to pick up some goodies. I also love Pizzadillas or French Bread Pizzas for quick last minute pizza take out alternatives. Don’t forget, making your own Thick and Rich Pizza Sauce is also really fast and easy!

Noodle Dishes

Pictured: Salad Bar Vegetable Lo Mein

Noodles are the ultimate comfort food, and when they’re drenched in a rich salty sauce and delivered straight to your door, they’re almost impossible to resist. BUT you can make them just as easily at home, and then you can bulk them up with as many veggies as you want. :) My Salad Bar Vegetable Lo Mein is an easy classic (no chopping required), or there is this super simple Stir Fry Beef Noodles if you want a little meat. Dragon Noodles have been my favorite take out alternative for YEARS, so much so that I’ve even made two other versions: Pork and Peanut Dragon Noodles and Lime Shrimp Dragon Noodles! Chicken Yakisoba takes a little more chopping, but it’s so worth the work.

Burgers

Pictured: Green Chile Turkey Burgers

Burgers are incredibly easy and you don’t need a grill to make them great! By adding a few “extras” into your patty, homemade burgers can be pretty incredible. Instead of a plain beef burger, try something fun like my Green Chile Turkey Burgers, or Pineapple Pork Hawaiian Burgers.

Stir Fry

Pictured: Easy Sesame Chicken

Stir fry recipes are no doubt the easiest and fastest dinner recipes out there, and there are an endless number of vegetable-protein-sauce combinations to choose from. Some of my favorites are: Easy Sesame Chicken, Easy Orange Chicken, and Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry. But there are plenty of options for vegetarians as well. Check out Spicy Coconut Vegetable Stir Fry, Vegetable Stir Fry with Noodles, or Vegetable Not Fried Rice.

Tacos!

Pictured: Baked Beef and Black Bean Tacos

Why are tacos such a popular street food? Because they’re FAST and EASY. Same goes for when you make them at home. Fish Tacos with Cumin Lime Slaw are super easy and light, Blackened Shrimp Tacos are great for people who like things a bit spicier, or if you’re vegetarian check out my Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos with Lime Crema (OMG that crema…). Into hard-shell tacos? Try my Baked Beef and Black Bean Tacos. Seriously, baking your hard shell tacos makes allll the difference.

Bowl Meals

Pictured: Easiest Burrito Bowl Meal Prep

The commercial food industry is finally catching on to how awesome bowl meals are and I feel like you can find them at just about any quick service restaurant these days. Luckily, they’re super easy to make at home, too. AND you can make them ahead so you won’t even have to think about it last minute. Some of my favorite bowl meals are: Easiest Burrito Bowl Meal Prep, Sushi Bowls with Sriracha Mayo, Loaded Mashed Potato Bowls, Bibimbap, and Slow Cooker Taco Chicken Bowls.

So those are my picks when I’m craving take out, but am trying really, really hard to control my budget. What are your favorite take out fake out recipes? Share yours in the comments below!

The post Take Out Fake Out Recipes for Busy Nights appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Raise your hand if you’ve got a “friendsgiving” gathering to attend this weekend! 👋 Friendsgivings are becoming more and more popular, which is awesome from a budget standpoint, since they’re often conducted more like a potluck, with everyone pitching in. So I’ve compiled a few good friendsgiving recipe ideas to help you navigate this new cultural phenomenon. What makes these friendsgiving picks different than just any old Thanksgiving recipe? I selected these friendsgiving recipes because they travel well, don’t need to be served fresh out of the oven, are easy to scale up and make big batches, or are conducive to serving as small bites or serving buffet style. Ready to see what I’ve got?

You can also check out my Easy Thanksgiving Dinner for Beginners meal plan.

15 Friendsgiving Recipe Ideas

Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs – These cute little meatballs are made for friendsgiving. They’re the perfect small bite to set out for guests as an appetizer, and are super easy to make if you’re not exactly a master chef.

Spinach Artichoke Dip – Serve this as an appetizer or a side dish with dinner! You can mix everything together before you leave the house or the day before, then just pop it in the oven to bake once you reach your destination.

Mashed Potatoes – What would Thanksgiving be without mashed potatoes? And luckily you can never have too much. Bring these Brown Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes for a little something different, or stick to a classic like Fluffy Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes.

Apple Dijon Kale Salad – I always breathe a sigh of relief when I see fresh greens in a Thanksgiving spread because all those rich and heavy sides can be a bit overwhelming. This salad is full of fall flavors, like apples and walnuts, and the kale holds up extremely well, so it’s perfect for making ahead. Keep the dressing separate until you reach your gathering, then dress and toss to coat. Even if the salad sits out for a while that kale will stay strong and sturdy!

Mushroom Herb Gravy – I love the idea of bringing a separate gravy like this Mushroom Herb Gravy for vegetarians. So even if your host is making a turkey and traditional gravy from the pan drippings, everyone can have a rich and flavorful gravy to spoon over their mashed potatoes and stuffing, whether they eat turkey or not.

Cranberry Sauce – Such a classic that you can’t go wrong. This is one of the easiest recipes on the list, so if you’re a newbie cook this is one you can definitely conquer!

Broccoli Cheddar Casserole – If you want to bring something that will get eaten until it’s GONE, it’s Broccoli Cheddar Casserole. No one can resist that creamy, cheesy, comfort food!

Savory Vegetable Stuffing – Another great option if your friendsgiving will include vegetarian patrons. You can bring a separate batch of this vegetarian stuffing for those who prefer to avoid the one prepared with turkey drippings, sausage, or other meat.

Colcannon – Instead of plain mashed potatoes, add some greens! My biggest gripe with Thanksgiving food is that it is often lacking in the green area. Colcannon is a great fix for that. No one can resist buttery mashed potatoes, and you’ll get your greens at the same time. :)

Sweet Potato Cornbread – This cult classic will have your friends talking for years to come. This rich, orange colored cornbread is almost dessert-like in its sweetness and is full of warm fall spices. This will make a stunning addition to your friendsgiving spread.

Sweet Molasses Dinner Rolls – If you want to go all out and impress, these homemade Sweet Molasses Dinner Rolls will do it. They’re soft, subtly sweet, and have the most gorgeous brown color. Double up the recipe for larger gatherings, or divide the dough into smaller pieces if you anticipate people needing to fill their plates with small bits of several dishes.

Mini Dark Chocolate Pecan Pies – I actually had friendsgiving in mind when I made this recipe! I imagined a pyramid of these pretty  little pecan pies sitting out on a buffet table as the perfect sweet treat to cap off a meal. …And if by some strange reason there are any leftover at the end of the party, you can freeze them for later. ;) But there won’t be any leftover.

Cranberry Almond Cake – This cake is stunning! And super easy. So if you want a great fall/winter themed cake to bring to your gathering, this is it. Those cranberries will bring lots of gorgeous color to the table!

Pumpkin Cheesecake Mousse – Just because it’s November doesn’t mean pumpkin is over! Bring this mousse to serve as an appetizer with Cinnamon Pita Crisps for dipping. A little dessert before dinner doesn’t hurt!

Candied Almonds – I’ve actually brought these candied almonds to a friendsgiving in the past and they were a hit! Your friends won’t be able to stay out of them. They’re the perfect little crunchy bite to nibble on as you wait for the main course.

What are your favorite recipes to bring to friendsgiving?? Share in the comments below!

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