Conversation with my husband: “Hey, my mom said she’d watch the kids so we can go on vacation. Where do you want to go?” “Um, doesn’t matter. No kids is enough of a vacation.” “Ooookay. Well, I’m going somewhere. You should come with me.” “Let’s see where we can fly for the cheapest, book a … Read more

This high-protein, low-calorie pizza makes it easy to enjoy a favorite food while staying on a weight-loss plan. Fast and simple to prepare, it yields a soft, golden crust topped with melty cheese. Surprisingly light: the entire pizza contains about 460 calories. Many clients ask whether pizza fits in a calorie-controlled diet. The answer is … Read more

When summer heats up and I don’t want to turn on the oven, salads are my go-to lunch. They’re quick to assemble and endlessly flexible. With a base of lettuce, spinach, or kale, you can build a satisfying meal from whatever vegetables and protein you have on hand. We keep a few store-bought dressings in … Read more

Make your own circus animal cookies with this easy recipe: buttery shortbread cookies dipped in melted chocolate and finished with colorful sprinkles. You might also enjoy our other cookie recipes and treats. Watch our step by step video! Circus animal cookies have been a nostalgic snack for decades. The boxed versions are often labeled shortbread, … Read more

Name Help is a series at Appellation Mountain. Every week, one reader’s name questions will be discussed. We rely on thoughtful comments from the community to help expectant parents narrow down their name decisions. Thank you in advance for sharing your insight! Reanna writes: I am expecting my second child (we don’t yet know the … Read more

Sound the trumpets! Today is an exciting day: I’m thrilled to officially introduce the cookbook I created for you. Earlier this year I left the financial industry to focus on cooking and The Curious Plate full-time, and working with Page Street Publishing to write this book has been a dream. After months of recipe testing … Read more

Yogurt mint sauce is a fresh, herby condiment that adds brightness and flavor to many dishes. Drizzle it over chicken, lamb, or beef, or use it to enliven roasted vegetables, rice, or salad bowls. I had fresh mint and parsley in the fridge that needed using, so I turned them into a quick blended sauce. … Read more

I’ve been experimenting with plantain recipes again after a triumphant trip to Brixton Market. This is my West African-inspired slow cooked duck, sweet potato and plantain curry. Why You’ll Love This West African Slow Cooker Duck and Plantain Curry Plantain curry with duck and sweet potato, scented with warming spices? This dish brings together bold, … Read more

This garlic cheddar biscuits recipe yields soft, buttery, cheesy drop biscuits that mimic Red Lobster’s famous cheese biscuits. Ready in less than 30 minutes, they’re quick, satisfying, and perfect served warm. These cheesy biscuits pair wonderfully with soups like Tuscan white bean or shrimp and corn chowder, make a tasty accompaniment to seafood pot pie, … Read more

These easy gluten-free pumpkin bars use just a few real-food ingredients and come together in one bowl. They’re moist, full of pumpkin flavor, and studded with chocolate chips. Naturally flourless, they can be enjoyed paleo or adapted for keto. If you love pumpkin, these pumpkin bars are an effortless way to enjoy the season. They’re … Read more