Main Dishes

Blackened Fish Tacos with Hot Honey Mayo and Mango Chutney – Gluten Free

December 30, 2025
Sandra Shields, Healthy Food and Wellness Blogger, Health Coach, Balanced Living, Clean Beauty Consultant
8 comments
Balanced Eating, Dairy Free, Dinner, Easy Dinner Recipe, Feel Good Food, Fish Tacos, Food, Gluten Free, Healthy Meals, Nutrient Dense Meals, Protein Rich Meals, Recipe, Recipes, Seafood Recipe, Sweet and Spicy

As I was gazing out the window sipping a cup of hot tea and watching the snow falling in quite a big snowstorm Monday, (also watching the birds at the feeder eating black sunflower seeds), I started thinking about what to do with the Cod I had in my freezer.

I have been bored with Cod, but in a fish taco, that could be exciting for the taste buds, especially if it had spices with some heat and was paired with a tangy hot honey sauce and mango chutney on top all wrapped in a warm corn tortilla with some red shredded cabbage for some crunch.

Cod is very finicky, you have to cook it to 145 degrees to be food safe, but just a smidge more, I mean 155 degrees, and it is like rubber. This Blackened Fish Taco hit all the spots, it was tender and flaky with spicy, savory and sweet. The family said this is definitely “blog worthy”. That is a phrase we use when I am testing recipes to share here. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do. In my opinion, it is definitely a reason to have cod in your freezer.

Blackened Fish Tacos with Hot Honey Mayo and Mango Chutney – Gluten Free

2 Pounds of Cod (approximately 7 pieces)

3 Tablespoons of Avocado Oil, for frying

Corn Tortillas

2 Limes

Shredded Purple Cabbage

Mango Chutney

Hot Honey

Mayonnaise

Blackened Seasoning, recipe follows

Salt

Let’s make the blackened seasoning ( you can also purchase it already made for you) Here is my homemade recipe that makes just enough for the fish:

Blackened Seasoning

1 Tablespoon of Paprika

1 Teaspoon of Salt

1 Teaspoon of Garlic Powder

1 Teaspoon of Onion Powder

1 Teaspoon of Oregano

1/4 to 1/2 Teaspoon of Cayenne Pepper depending on how much heat you like

Mix the spices together in a small bowl, and it’s ready to use.

Hot Honey Mayonnaise

1/2 Cup of Mayo (I use Primal Kitchen)

1/4 Cup of Hot Honey (I got mine in the deli section of our grocery store)

1 Tablespoon of Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice

1/2 Teaspoon of Salt

Whisk it all together, and put it into the refrigerator until it’s time to serve.

Directions for the Fish Tacos:

You will need a large frying pan for the fish, and a smaller one to warm the corn tortillas.

Place two tablespoons of avocado oil in the large pan and one tablespoon in the smaller pan.

Sprinkle your Cod with all of the blackened seasoning on both sides evenly, and place it in the pan. Put your pan on a hot burner on high, and cook the fish for three minutes on one side, and then flip it over for another three to four minutes. Use a thermometer to gage the heat until the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees, being careful not to go over, so your fish is as tender as possible. This depends on the thickness of your fish. When the fish is done, squeeze the juice of one lime all over the cooked fish.

**Save this recipe for later 📌**
Blackened Fish Tacos with Hot Honey Mayo & Mango Chutney

Meanwhile heat your corn tortillas in the smaller pan in avocado oil one at a time, flipping them with tongs to warm both sides.

To serve, place a blackened piece of cod on a warm corn tortilla, top with hot honey mayo, a dollop of mango chutney, and some shredded purple cabbage. Enjoy! This recipe came together quick and easy, and I can’t wait to make it again. It is gluten free and dairy free, and a healthy dinner entree. Serve it with veggie sides or a nice leafy green salad.

**Blackened Fish Taco with Hot Honey and Mango Chutney**

As the near year is just a few days away, I wanted to also share my thoughts on going into 2026. Lets make 2026 unbelievably good for us. Let our mindsets be intentional this year. Not resolutions, but small choices and resets each week. Tips: Put some post it’s on your mirror, set a reminder on your phone, set aside daily space for yourself even if it’s 10 minutes that is different than before, start a journal that is vision centered kind of like a vision board.

“The greatest danger for most of us is not that our aim is too high…” – Michelangelo

I always love to hear from you!

Blessings,

Sam

Sandra Shields, Health Coach

Bold, Gut-Friendly Flavor: Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free Tandoori Chicken

If you’re craving something warm, spicy, and satisfying—but need to keep it both gluten-free and dairy-free—this Tandoori Chicken is exactly what your meal rotation needs.

Made with a creamy unsweetened coconut yogurt marinade, warming anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric and ginger, and juicy bone-in chicken thighs, this dish is packed with bold flavor and nourishing ingredients. Perfect for summer grilling or year-round roasting, this version skips the dairy without compromising on richness and depth.

✨ Why I Love This Recipe

As someone who’s committed to clean, nutrient-dense meals that work with my gut—not against it—this Tandoori Chicken checks all the boxes:

Naturally gluten-free & dairy-free
Rich in anti-inflammatory spices
Gut-friendly and hormone-supportive
Easy to meal prep or double for a crowd
Versatile: bake, grill, or air fry

🛒 Ingredients

2 lbs bone-in chicken thighs (skin on or off, your choice)
1¼ cups unsweetened coconut yogurt
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp ground ginger
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tbsp ground fennel
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp ground turmeric
½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
2 tsp sea salt
¼ tsp white pepper

🍋 How to Make It

1. Make the Marinade
In a large bowl, combine the coconut yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and all of the spices. Whisk well until smooth.

2. Marinate the Chicken
Add chicken thighs to the bowl and coat thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight to let the flavors soak in.

3. Cook Your Way

Oven method (my go-to): Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment. Arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the skin is crisp and the meat is cooked through.
Grill: Preheat to medium-high and grill for 6–8 minutes per side. The photo shows my bone in chicken thighs cooked on our Blackstone grill.
Air fryer: Cook at 375°F for 20–22 minutes, flipping halfway.

4. Finish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro if desired and serve with lime wedges. Pairs beautifully with cauliflower rice, white or brown rice, grilled veggies, or a crisp cucumber salad.

🧠 Nutrition Note

This recipe is packed with powerful spices that support digestion, reduce inflammation, and help regulate blood sugar. Turmeric and ginger in particular are two of my favorite go-to’s for overall wellness and hormone balance.

Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram if you make this—I love seeing how you recreate Sam Eats Her Nutrients recipes in your own kitchen! 📸 Let’s Connect!

I share a mix of healthy recipes, clean beauty tips, and handmade projects from my studio.
Follow me @SewGlowEatWell for a peek into what I’m cooking, crafting, and creating.

📌 Save It for Later:

“Bold & Gut-Friendly: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Tandoori Chicken”
A perfect meal prep star or crowd-pleaser—pin it, share it, make it again and again.

Easy Compounded Fresh Basil Garlic Butter

Basil is an amazing herb. It is like sunshine in a plant, the flavor of it is beautiful and mild enough to eat the leaves tossed in a salad. It is my favorite fresh herb. I have a very large plant that keeps giving and giving, and it is more difficult to find after summer in large bunches. You can’t do a whole lot with a little plastic container that you find at the grocery store. I start craving fresh basil mid-winter after the crunchy autumn maple and oak leaves are covered by white snow, and my fresh basil has long been killed by frost. Up here in Northern Michigan that is about January.

I like to go to my local food coop to find large bunches when it’s too cold to grow it outdoors myself so I can make and freeze pesto. I also have grown it indoors in the wintertime with an Aerogarden Hydroponic System that is tabletop sized. This year, I have been making a compound butter with my fresh basil and freezing it into tablespoon sized cubes to keep the fresh basil flavors going in my kitchen long after Summer is gone.

Here is my easy and incredibly delicious recipe to add pops of flavor to vegetables, proteins like steak, eggs, and meatballs, pasta, and breads. I like to use this butter 50/50 with a drizzle of olive oil and a pat of this compounded butter over steamed vegetables. Try it with steamed Brussels sprouts! It’s delicious. For even more salty savory flavor, grate some fresh Parmesan over them too. Top a steak cooked on a Blackstone grill with this butter for a restaurant quality T-Bone or New York Strip. A cast iron pan stove top to oven works well also. I also like to use it for spiralized zoodles, and add it to halved baked squash fresh from the oven with a drizzle of honey. It’s excellent on beets, broccoli, carrots and potatoes. Here is my recipe:

Easy Compounded Fresh Basil Garlic Butter

2 Cups of Fresh Basil Leaves

1 Pound of high fat butter like Plugra or Kerrygold (cubed) You can use salted or unsalted.

2 Tablespoons of Garlic Infused Olive Oil

1 Teaspoon of Salt

In a food processor, add the fresh basil leaves and pulse until they are finely chopped. When the basil has been finely chopped, add in the remaining ingredients, and pulse in your food processor until it is blended and incorporated. You will have to stop the processor and scrape down the sides a couple of times. Lay out a parchment lined baking sheet and scrape your compounded basil garlic butter onto the sheet. Using an offset spatula, form the butter into a square block, and place it in the freezer overnight. The next day lay the frozen butter onto a cutting board and cut into 32 squares. Place your butter pats into a zipped freezer bag or sealed container, and keep them in the freezer. Use as needed!

**Basil Garlic Compounded Butter on Gluten Free Bread Ready to Broil**

Let me know how you like to use this butter. I’d also love to hear what your favorite fresh herb is and how you use it.

Fresh Tomato Spaghetti Sauce: A Versatile and Delicious Recipe

Hello! Can you believe how fast Summer went by? We still have plenty of gorgeous weather coming our way in September, and my tomato plants are producing like they are on steroids. I made the most delicious spaghetti sauce with them, and I wanted to share the recipe, because it is incredibly delicious, and a great way to take advantage of all the benefits tomatoes offer and use the bounty of fresh tomatoes. Fresh tomatoes are delicious, but when you are growing them, they are quite a bit like zucchini in their abundance when they start ripening. I don’t like to waste food, and the tomatoes need a good recipe. Now I’m a girl who loves a yummy sauce not just for pasta and spaghetti, this sauce is so good over vegetables, lentils, polenta, zoodles, and more. I have two options for you too. You can make it meatless, or as a last step in the recipe, you can add ground pork, sausage, beef, chicken or turkey.

Fresh Tomato Spaghetti Sauce: A Versatile and Delicious Recipe

In this recipe I removed the skins from the tomatoes, but left the seeds. I have a variety of tomatoes, and you use what you have. If you don’t grow your own garden, you can get fresh tomatoes at a local farmers market and produce stands. Trust me, it’s worth it.

I’d love to hear what fresh produce you have enjoyed most over the last few months in the comments. It has been a very busy season here, and the Summer was wonderful and fleeting. I tried to soak up as much outdoor activities and sunshine as possible. My son got married in August, and I had the pleasure of being in the company of my grandchildren quite a bit while they were off school. This included taking my granddaughter to swim lessons at the lake two days a week in the mornings. and taking all three of them boating and swimming. We’ve had lots of beach time and backyard BBQ’s, and I’m not quite ready to give it up! I will also be sharing this month another new recipe for a compounded butter using fresh basil that is a smart time saver that bumps up the zing factor. It is freezable into tablespoon pats! A delicious flavor boost!

So, enough gabbing, here is my recipe for Spaghetti Sauce using fresh tomatoes! But first here’s a photo of the sauce adding a combination of ground pork and beef. The hands on time for this sauce is about 45 minutes. It simmers for a few hours, and you just need to stir it a few times.

Spaghetti Sauce Using Fresh Tomatoes

Ingredients:

3 Pounds of Fresh Tomatoes

5 Cloves of Garlic (Peeled and Smashed) Low FodMap Option substitute 3 Tablespoons of Garlic Infused Olive Oil)

2 Tablespoons of Olive Oil (if you are making Low FodMap, this would be part of the garlic oil above.)

8 Ounces of Tomato Paste (I like this organic brand.)

4 Cups of Water

1 Tablespoon of Dried Parsley

1 Tablespoon of Dried Oregano

1 Teaspoon of Dried Basil

1 Bay Leaf

2 Teaspoons of Salt of Choice (I used Himalayan Pink Salt here. I like that you get trace minerals in this salt)

Ground Pepper to taste.

To begin this recipe we need peeled tomatoes. It is very easy to do with a pot of boiling water. The skins slip right off after plunging them in the water for 3 minutes. Bring a large stock pot up to a rolling boil. Add a tablespoon of salt. Now, carefully add half of your tomatoes into the boiling water and set a timer for 3 minutes (Alexa is my best friend). After the time is up, remove the tomatoes to a bowl with a mesh strainer and cool slightly. Meanwhile, add the remaining tomatoes to the boiling pot and set a timer. When the tomatoes are cool enough to handle, slip off the skins using a knife when necessary for the little bits that stick and remove the core. Slice the tomatoes in half. There is not a lot of chopping here. They will deconstruct with the cooking….easy! After all the tomatoes are peeled and halved. Prepare a large saucepan (I love my Martha Stewart Red Dutch Oven. It is heavy and built for a long simmer.)

Add the olive oil to the Dutch oven, and turn the burner on medium high. Peel and smash your garlic cloves. Leave them whole. They will infuse the sauce as it simmers. Add them to the just hot oil and cook until they are fragrant, about one minute. Now, add in your prepared tomatoes and the rest of the ingredients, including the tomato paste and 4 cups of water. Bring the sauce to a boil, then turn it to a low simmer and simmer uncovered for 2 to 3 1/2 hours. When the sauce is getting to be a nice thick consistency, it is ready. Taste it for salt and pepper. If you want to add ground meat, now is the time to saute your meat of choice and add it to the sauce. It is ready to serve over anything you want. It is so delicious! Enjoy. It’s a very good thing!

BBQ Shredded Pork and Tater Tot Casserole

I have been obsessing a bit lately on how easy a tater tot casserole is to put together and the endless possibilities. It seems tater tots delight the young and old alike based on how my family’s eyes light up when I put this one on the table. A BBQ pork tater tot casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the savory flavors of barbecue pork with the crispy texture of tater tots, all baked together in a casserole.

Who doesn’t like shredded barbecued pork? The BBQ sauce adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory pork. There is also a layer of creamy refried beans before the tater tots, and it’s all topped with good aged cheddar cheese and takes only 30 minutes to bake in the oven. The contrast between the crispy tater tots and the creamy cheese makes for a satisfying texture. Another bonus is this can be made ahead and also frozen in advance. If you are looking for time saving tips, I recommend making two and freezing one for a night when you don’t have time or are too tired to cook. I’m raising my hand here. 🙂

BBQ Shredded Pork and Tater Tot Casserole

Ingredients:

1 Cooked Pork Roast, Shredded

Favorite BBQ Sauce (I used my recipe here)

10 ounces of Refried Beans (I used Thrive’s Refried Pinto Beans)

1 Cup of Chopped Green Onion

Two Tablespoons of Capers

Two Large Jarred Roasted Red Peppers (I used Thrive Market Organic) Diced

1 Bag of Tater Tots

10 Ounces of Shredded Aged Cheddar

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Grease a 9 x 13 glass casserole dish. Toss together the shredded pork and barbecue sauce adding enough sauce to make a nice saucy, juicy mixture.

Stir the refried beans in a bowl with a fork to loosen them up. If they are not spreadable, warm them in the microwave for one minute. Then, spread a layer of refried beans evenly over the shredded pork. Sprinkle the tangy salty capers evenly over the beans and 3/4 cup of sliced scallions.

Now, dump the frozen tater tots on top of the beans, and spread them out evenly. Top with the diced roasted red peppers, then the shredded cheddar. Bake in your preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, when the tater tots are golden brown and the casserole is bubbly, remove it from the oven and sprinkle it with the remaining sliced green onions.

Serve! You can provide additional toppings like hot sauces and ranch. Tip: Add jalapeños or use a spicy BBQ sauce for some heat. Serve with a fresh salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables.

This casserole is great for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings. It’s easy to prepare in advance and can be a crowd-pleaser due to its hearty and flavorful nature.

A BBQ pork tater tot casserole is a versatile and enjoyable dish that brings together familiar flavors in a comforting and satisfying way.

Happy eating!

Sam

Nourishing Winter Mediterranean Quinoa Bowls with Lemon Vinaigrette, A Symphony of Flavors

There is something about winter where our bodies intuitively crave colorful, fresh food, or is it just me? This Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl has hearty, warming quinoa and an array of colorful, flavorful fresh food and textures that will nourish you! From creamy avocado, to crunchy peppers and omega rich hemp seeds, it will make you feel satisfied and is bursting with flavor.

Winter cravings often whisper the desire for warmth and color on our plates. If you’ve ever found yourself yearning for a burst of freshness amid the chilly season, you’re not alone. Embrace the winter palette with this vibrant Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl — a symphony of hearty quinoa, succulent chicken, and an orchestra of colorful, nutrient-packed ingredients.

Picture this: a bowl brimming with fluffy quinoa, perfectly cooked chicken tenderloins, and an array of vibrant vegetables dancing in a melody of textures. From the creamy embrace of avocado to the crisp crunch of bell peppers, each bite is a celebration of flavors. As you savor the omega-rich hemp seeds, the bowl transforms into a winter feast that satisfies both the body and the soul.

Quinoa adds a comforting, healthy base to your colorful masterpiece.

Juicy chicken tenderloins are protein packed to elevate your bowl.

Creamy avocado adds a luscious richness that complements the other textures and adds healthy fat.

Bell Peppers, Cucumber, Shredded Carrot: A trio of colors and crunch, these vegetables bring freshness and vibrancy to every spoonful.

Hemp Hearts: A sprinkle of omega-rich goodness, adding a delightful nuttiness to your bowl.

Red Cabbage: Vibrant and crunchy, red cabbage not only adds color but also a boost of antioxidants.

Green Onion, Fresh Cilantro or Parsley: These herbs provide a refreshing aroma and a burst of flavor, enhancing the overall experience.

Here’s the ingredients to put together your bowls. You can have these all on hand and pre-prepared in your kitchen and refrigerator to grab and assemble quickly.

Ingredients:

Cooked Quinoa, I used sprouted and cooked mine in a small rice cooker

Cooked Chicken Tenderloins, I baked mine with olive oil, a little Djon mustard, salt and pepper whisked and brushed over them.

Avocado, sliced

Bell Peppers, chopped….any color you like

Cucumber, sliced

Shredded Carrot

Hemp Hearts (I like these)

Red Cabbage, shredded or chopped

Green Onion, sliced

Fresh Cilantro or Parsley

Lemon Vinaigrette:

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and maple syrup.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble your bowls by placing a scoop of cooked quinoa in the center of the bowl and building the rest of the ingredients around it. Finally sprinkle with fresh herbs, hemp hearts and drizzle with the vinaigrette.

Let me know if you made this in the comments. I always love to hear from you!

Buffalo Chicken Tostadas, Gluten and Grain Free

Buffalo Chicken dishes are a huge fan favorite, and I can say I crave buffalo chicken! When I recently had a company I was unaware of offer to send me samples of their gluten and grain free Rise & Puff Tortillas with only 5 clean ingredients (cassava flour, tapioca flour, pure avocado oil, honey and sea salt) and no preservatives, I said yes, and started brainstorming a delicious recipe to make with them. These are the Rise & Puff Award Winning Tortillas with no added gums and quality ingredients that tasted delicious.

The sky is the limit with these tortillas, and I am so excited to find one on the market that toasted up nicely and remains flexible for folding, or you can toast it longer and it becomes crispy!

Let’s go! This Buffalo Chicken Tostada recipe has shaved purple cabbage and yellow onion for crunch, and Greek yogurt, a healthier alternative to sour cream, and creamy delicious avocado! I always feel like I’ve hit the jackpot when an avocado is perfectly ripe! You are going to love the homemade buffalo sauce that is bursting with flavor, and I used boneless chicken thighs, which are very tender and don’t dry out.

The buffalo chicken is made in a skillet on the stovetop, then you simply toast the tostadas in a pan and assemble them. I love that you can make the buffalo chicken in advance and reheat it when you want to make them. I am all about time saving and ease! It’s a crazy busy world, and this makes it easier to make them quickly with low stress when you have hungry people to feed, including yours truly. Nothing worse than a hangry cook! These are also great to have on hand in the fridge for breakfast tostadas with eggs, taco night, and quesadillas. There are a lot of recipe ideas on their website as well if you’d like more inspiration.

Buffalo Chicken Tostadas, Gluten and Grain Free

This recipe makes 6 to 8 tostadas.

Ingredients:

To Cook the Chicken:

2 Pounds of Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs

1 1/2 Tablespoons of Olive Oil

1 Teaspoon of Sea Salt

1/4 Teaspoon of Black Pepper

In a large skillet add 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil, and brown the chicken thighs on each side sprinkling with the salt and pepper. They do not need to be cooked in the center. They will cook as the sauce simmers.

For the Buffalo Sauce:

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

1/3 Cup of Franks Hot Sauce

1/4 Cup of Pure Honey

1/4 Cup of Ghee

2 Tablespoons of Coconut Aminos

1 Tablespoon of Garlic Infused Olive Oil or 1/2 Teaspoon of Garlic Powder

1/2 Teaspoon of Salt

1/2 Teaspoon of Black Pepper

To assemble you will need:

1 Package of Rise & Puff Tortillas

Thinly Shaved Red Cabbage

Thinly Sliced Yellow Onion

1 Ripe Avocado, Sliced

Plain Greek Yogurt

Directions:

After you have browned the chicken on both sides and whisked together the sauce ingredients in a bowl, pour the sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Bring the chicken and sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer with the lid 3/4 on, so the steam escapes, for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fork tender. Remove the lid and continue to cook on medium heat until the sauce has evaporated a good bit and is thick. Remove the chicken from the sauce onto a cutting board, and shred or chop. Add the chicken back to the skillet. Now you are ready to toast your tostadas and assemble. In a hot skillet with a little bit of olive oil (I used a coated cast iron skillet) toast the tortillas for 15 second per side, or until they have bubbled and browned. (see the photo)

Remove them from the skilled and assemble the tortillas by adding buffalo chicken to the bottom, following by shaved red cabbage, onion, avocado and Greek yogurt. Sprinkle with additional salt and pepper if desired. Enjoy!

I always love to hear from you! Leave a comment for me.

Farmhouse Fennel and Zucchini Frittata with Chicken Apple Sausages & Beautycounter Clean Skincare Holiday Sets Are Here!

Farmhouse Fennel and Zucchini Frittata with Chicken Apple Sausages

Eggs in a skillet with loads of delicious ingredients! Frittatas are the perfect way to use your vegetables, cheese and proteins in the fridge and reduce food waste. They are an easy, all in one skillet to oven meal that makes weeknight dinners easier. I think you are going to love this recipe for Fennel and Zucchini Frittata with fully cooked Chicken Apple Sausages. It’s one pan cooking, and an all in one meal. This would be good with a crisp green side salad. I made it in a heavy cast iron skillet with a ceramic coating inside called ‘The Always Pan’. You will need an approximately 10 1/2 inch skillet for this recipe that is oven safe up to 400 degrees F. If you use a larger skillet, that’s perfectly fine. Just shorten your baking time.

It seems like I am always creating main dish recipes that are fairly quick. That’s because I feel the stress of getting dinner on the table for a family every night, and I think chances are you do too. I like to make homemade meals as much as I can, because they are healthier, and the bonus leftovers help pack lunches the next day. This Frittata is also a great breakfast choice!

You can use this frittata recipe as a template, and substitute equal amounts of other veggies that you have on hand instead too. Frittatas are very versatile, which is another bonus about them. Other suggestions are green, red or yellow peppers, leeks, spinach, kale, mushrooms, broccoli and asparagus.

Here’s how to make it!

Farmhouse Fennel and Zucchini Frittata with Chicken Apple Sausages

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.

Ingredients:

12 Large Eggs

1 Large Fennel Bulb, diced

1 Medium Yellow Onion, diced

1 Medium Zucchini, diced

1/2 Cup of Grated Parmesan Cheese

1 cup of Grated Irish Aged Cheddar Cheese (I like Kerrygold)

1 Package of Chicken Apple Sausages, or Another Chicken Sausage you like that is Fully Cooked (I used Butcher Box Sausages)

1/4 Cup of Milk of Choice

2 Tablespoon of Garlic Infused Olive Oil

2 Tablespoons of Butter of Ghee

1 1/2 Teaspoons of Sea Salt of Pink Salt

1 Teaspoon of Black Pepper

Directions: In your oven safe skillet, add the olive oil and butter or ghee. Chop your fennel, onion and zucchini. Add the fennel and onion to the skillet after the fat has melted and the skillet is hot along with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Sautee these two vegetables, stirring occasionally until they are becoming tender. Then, add the chopped zucchini and another 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and cook for five more minutes. Meanwhile, whisk the eggs in a large bowl, add the milk to the eggs, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt and pepper, and fold in the cheese, reserving about 1/4 cup for the top. Smooth the vegetables in the skillet into an even layer. Slice your sausages, and place them in an even layer on top of the sauteed vegetables. Now, gently pour the egg and cheese mixture over the sausages, and sprinkle with the rest of the cheese.

Place a baking pan under your skillet to catch any possible drips, and transfer it to your preheated 400 degree F. oven. Bake until golden and puffy and set in the center for 30 to 40 minutes.

This recipes makes 4 large servings or 6 regular serving

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Featured Ingredients:

Squalane: Derived from olives, it draws moisture into skin to replenish and condition.
Grapeseed Oil: Fast-absorbing and helps maintain moisture.
Jojoba Seed Oil: Works to soothe and moisturize skin.
Shea Butter: Helps hydrate and condition skin.

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Have a happy, health day!

**Beautycounter’s Safer Skincare Holiday Sets for 2023**

Buffalo Chicken and Ranch Oven Hashbrowns

The official days of Fall are almost here, and it is September, even though it has been pretty darn hot and humid, even up here in Northern Michigan! But that hasn’t stopped me from decorating my home for fall and dreaming up some new recipes for the crisp days coming when the football games start, kids are back to school, it gets more hectic, and we start craving hearty foods and always lots of flavor!

I don’t know about you, but I love a good hashbrown. But, they take so long to make and can be tricky on the stovetop, and by tricky, I mean, you can’t walk away from them. Buffalo chicken, potatoes and ranch all are crave worthy ingredients, and I thought, why not make a recipe using all these delicious foods that I can make quickly. Let’s face it, we are almost all juggling so much nowadays. Some days I feel like my whole day is a race, yet I am responsible for feeding an equally busy, hungry family, and I still want them to tell me how yummy it is. I have never been a “Grab it and Growl person”. My husband had that a lot growing up, and no disrespect to any loving mom. We all want good things for our children. I’m just an overachiever in that department and always have been having been trained by a mom who did mostly scratch cooking.

This recipe uses real food ingredients, and I added a shortcut! You can use a store bought quality rotisserie chicken as an option. (Make sure it’s gluten free if you are eating g/f.) They are very easy to find anymore, and it makes this recipe super quick. Also, if you have an Instant Pot, you can cook a whole seasoned yourself chicken in there during the day and have it ready and warm at dinner and just need to take it off the bone. Or…… cook the chicken the day before, debone and shred it for making this recipe the next day. Didn’t I tell you I have options for ya? I get it! Some days are crazy. I’m right there with you. But, there is nothing better on a crazy day than to make this feel good recipe! I even had leftovers for lunch the next day.

Let’s make Buffalo Chicken and Ranch Oven Hashbrowns!!

Buffalo Chicken and Ranch Oven Hashbrowns

Ingredients:

1 Whole Roasted Chicken, deboned and shredded (however you like to make it. Mine was in the Instant Pot seasoned with salt and pepper)

2 Pounds of Frozen Hashbrowns (I use Cascadian Farms 1 lb bags. I order from Thrive Market here.)

1 Medium Chopped Yellow Onion (omit if Low FodMap and substitute 1 Tablespoon of Garlic Olive Oil for 1 Tablespoon of Ghee)

4 ounces of Romano Cheese, shredded finely

4 Ounces of Asiago Cheese, shredded finely

3 Tablespoons of Butter or Ghee

1/2 Teaspoon of Onion Powder (omit if Low FodMap)

1/2 Teaspoon of Sea Salt

1/2 Teaspoon of Black Pepper

For the Sauce:

1/4 Cup of Frank’s Hot Sauce

4 Tablespoons of Butter or Ghee

1 Tablespoon of Apple Cider Vinegar

4 Tablespoons of Honey

I use my recipe for Won’t Miss a Think Ranch here. Make this or use your favorite clean ranch dressing.

Fresh minced parsley and basil for the top (optional) plus more hot sauce to drizzle on top if you like extra heat.

Directions:

Shred your chicken. Melt the buffalo sauce ingredients in a saucepan, and pour over the chicken and toss to coat it evenly. Set aside.

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Let’s make the easy, crispy and absolutely delicious sheet pan hashbrowns in the oven. I’m getting excited now! 😉 In a large bowl, break up the frozen hash browns with your hands. If they are really frozen, you can use a meat pounder. Isn’t it convenient these are made from frozen and you don’t have to thaw them first? I love that for convenience. Add 3 Tablespoons of melted butter to the hashbrowns along with a medium chopped onion, the onion powder, Romano and Asiago cheeses, salt and pepper. Toss to coat thoroughly. Lay out a large rimmed baking sheet, grease it lightly and then lay a piece of parchment paper on top. Pour your hashbrowns onto the sheet pan and press them firmly down in one even layer. Bake the hashbrowns on the top shelf of your oven for 40 minutes until golden brown with crispy edges. Make sure to check them after 35 minutes as every oven is slightly different. You can make just the hashbrowns too!

When the hashbrowns are golden brown and crispy, pull them out of the oven. Make sure your buffalo chicken is still warm. If not, reheat it in the microwave. Now, dollop the shredded buffalo chicken on top the the hashbrowns as shown, drizzle with ranch and sprinkle with fresh minced parsley and basil and extra hot sauce if desired.

Take it to the table and serve it cut into squares with a large spatula! Can I say yum? It’s so good. I like to serve it with more veggies on the side and a leafy green salad.

Ramekin Baked Eggs with Polenta, Marinara and Cheese

Hello! How are you? I hope you are having a good July. It’s been quite hot here lately in Northern Michigan, and I have been making these little ramekins of goodness that are full of flavor, have a delicious, creamy texture and are nourishing but not over filling or heavy. Since summer can be busy with a lot more outdoor activities, this recipe uses a premade marinara that is convenient whatever time of year. Who am I kidding, life if always busy.

This recipe is naturally gluten free, and I am happy to have expanded the foods I tolerate well to include polenta and aged cheese. This dish has nourishing eggs full of protein, healthy fats and Omega 3. I try to look for local eggs or pastured organic eggs, and I like the ones with the really yellow yolks. The marinara is a good source of lycopene. Cooked tomatoes have a higher amount than fresh. So, that’s a plus, but those fresh tomatoes in summer are really something aren’t they? Rao’s marinara is just about as close as you will get to homemade. I like to keep a couple jars in my pantry at all times to have handy. The aged cheddar is a source of protein and contains very little lactose, so it is easier to digest if you generally don’t tolerate other dairy. It tastes so good, and just an ounce adds so much flavor. Polenta is naturally gluten free and a source of fiber and protein, and it is a wonderful, creamy texture when cooked properly. My dad used to put leftover polenta in a loaf pan and refrigerate it, then slice it the next day, and brown it on the stove in a pan. It was very good leftover like that. I like to cook mine in an instant pot. What a marvelous, time saving invention! The results are successful every time, and I don’t have to watch the pot as it cooks. I find the texture always comes out perfectly. Try this no fail recipe. I use Bob’s Red Mill Polenta.

This is a very versatile dish good for breakfast, lunch or dinner. It is easily reheatable too. My daughter, who is doing a nursing internship this summer, packs it in her lunch. It is one of those easy recipes that you can effortlessly modify to make more of less.

Here is the recipe. You can make the polenta ahead of time and put these together really quickly. Just reheat the polenta before using. You will only use half the batch in the recipe above to make six ramekins, so you can use the rest for another time or purpose.

Ramekin Baked Eggs with Polenta, Marinara and Cheese

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.

Ingredients:

1 Cup of Cooked Polenta. (See the recipe link above.)

Marinara Sauce (I like Rao’s brand)

6 Ounces of Cubed, Aged Cheddar Cheese

Twelve Quality Eggs

Salt and Pepper to Taste

Directions:

Grease 6 Ramekins by brushing the insides with olive oil.

Place the ramekins on a rimmed baking sheet. Spoon in marinara sauce into the bottom of each ramekin. Add a couple large spoonfuls into each. Add 1/4 Cup of warm polenta on top of the marinara sauce and spread it to the edges of the ramekin. Now add about an ounce of cubed cheddar on top of the polenta evenly. Crack two good quality eggs on top of everything and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

Bake the eggs in your preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until the whites are set and your yolks are how you like them cooked. Remove them from the oven, and cool for about ten minutes before eating.