I put a spin on classic Texas beef chili by adding mushrooms and quinoa. Beef Mushroom Quinoa Chili (gasp), what?! Sit down if you need to, let that sink in. It may be a little unconventional but, darn, if it isn’t just as spicy, satisfying and downright delicious as old-school chili. I think if hard-pressed, even strict chili enthusiasts would have to agree. 
So why did I put mushrooms and quinoa in classic Texas-style beef chili, you ask? I’ll admit, first was out of practical necessity – I *thought* I had a little more ground beef in the freezer than I actually did. I figured adding mushrooms (which everyone knows pair well with beef) and quinoa (which has a similar texture of ground beef) would help me stretch the recipe — which it did indeed! But there are other benefits too! Read on to get the recipe and learn all the benefits of this beef chili with mushrooms and quinoa. Continue reading


Some may associate watermelon with only the warm-weather months, but I’m here to spread the good cheer – watermelon is an amazingly versatile and economical fruit that can be enjoyed 365 days a year. In fact, watermelon is a super delicious and decidedly healthful way to bring family and friends together and make memories wherever you may be gathered. Read on to find out my strategies to survive and thrive through the holidays with watermelon.