Turmeric Mashed Potatoes | Dairy-free, Plant-based, Whole30

Everyone has their own special way of making mashed potatoes, and often for me that includes winging it! You know, a little of this and a little of that – and sometimes this potato side dish turns out better than others, lol! Vegan Turmeric Mashed Potatoes - dairy-free, gluten-free, plant-based, healthy complex carbs

The last time I made the best mashed potatoes worthy of putting on repeat, I made sure I to write down all the details for future replication. Vegan Turmeric Mashed Potatoes are dairy-free, plant-based, gluten-free and awesome complex carbs to fuel running. Ground turmeric serves as a functional ingredient, I appreciate those anti-inflammatory benefits. Also, the earthy undertones of turmeric play so nicely with potato – and the beautiful COLOR, people might think these are sweet potatoes at first glance! Continue reading

Syrupy Rosemary Maple Oranges – Paleo, Vegan, Gluten-free Dessert

I have a certified sweet tooth, but the simplest, most wholesome foods will satisfy it, like nature’s candy – fruit! In cooler weather, citrus is a dependable pick from the produce department and you can easily turn them from lunchbox snack to elegant dessert with this recipe for Syrupy Rosemary Maple Oranges. Rosemary Maple Oranges

This vibrant paleo fruit dessert is best made in a cast iron skillet, and can be done on the grill for a little smoky flair or inside on the stovetop. The ingredients are super simple – oranges, coconut sugar, real maple syrup, fresh rosemary and a pinch of Himalayan pink salt. Continue reading

Chipotle Pumpkin Cheddar Grits & Black Bean Bowl

This post is sponsored by Cabot Creamery, in conjunction with Healthy Aperture, as part of a blogger cooking contest. All content, opinions and enthusiasm remain my own!

I’m starting to get those fall-time feels! Cooler weather, cozy meals, seasonal flavors, and this year more family time around the dinner table. Not only are we staying home more and eating out less, we’ve also got a couple college kids who are able to extend their visits thanks to this new online learning situation. Quick, easy and affordable! This budget-friendly family favorite makes a great fall-inspired dinner on busy nights. White cheddar and pumpkin make stone ground grits so creamy, and chipotle chile powder adds just a touch of smoky heat. Add my suggested toppings to make it a balanced meat with under 400 calories and 20g protein per serving. Gluten free, lower carb and meal prep / freezer friendly. Get more quick and easy meal recipes and clean eating ideas at thefitfork.com

That being said, I’ve had to flex my creative cooking muscle to come up with budget-friendly ideas that will keep my three hungry guys filled up without breaking the bank (and interfering with my running shoe budge, lol). Cheesy, hearty meals are ALWAYS a winner with them, so I’ve relied on flavorful Cabot cheese, along with staples from my pantry) to create a Chipotle Pumpkin Cheddar Grits & Black Bean Bowl. Continue reading

Best Ever Balsamic Mushrooms & Onions | Paleo, Vegetarian

Balsamic Mushrooms & Onions are one of my favorite side dishes and seem to go with almost everything! If vegetables could have a little black dress, this would be it – easy but elegant and suitable for all occasions!Balsamic Mushrooms and Onions are an easy 30 minute side dish that is paleo friendly and vegetarian.

This simple sauté is a flavorful accessory to steaks, you’ll be transported to the feel of white tablecloth steakhouse dining in your own home.  Not just a steak side dish though, also pairs magnificently with seafood, chicken, pork . . . or pile up on a baked sweet potato or bowl of grits for some ahhhh-mazing comfort food feels. Read on for this best of the best sautéed mushroom recipe: Continue reading

Grilled Watermelon with Cherry Balsamic Salsa | Paleo, Vegan, Whole30

Got the grill going this weekend? My Grilled Watermelon with Cherry Balsamic Salsa is a simple yet stunning addition to your summer spread.

Grilled Watermelon with Cherry Balsamic Salsa

Bursting with sweet-savory flavor thanks to the season’s best produce, this creative fruit salad is a family favorite for backyard cookouts and pool parties. Plus, with simple, fresh ingredients, it fits with Paleo, Whole30, Vegetarian, Vegan and Mediterranean diets. Continue reading