Saturday, December 29, 2012

Top 12 Healthy, Real-Food Recipes of 2012

With 2012 quickly waning, it's the time of the year when we're all given to reflection and looking back upon the year.  And so it is that I've been thinking about the year in review for Sweet Peas and Pumpkins, too.

I only share recipes on this blog that I've made and given a big thumbs' up.  But each year there are some that are my absolute favorites. 

Here's the best of 2012, in no particular order:


Fish Tacos with Chipotle Cream Sauce and Lime:  An easy weekday dinner that will transport you South of the Border.  Smokey chipotle and bright citrus combine to give your palate a little party.






Peanutty Stirfry: Make it with tofu and it's vegetarian and vegan, but any lean protein will do.  Super easy stir-fry with delicious, kid-friendly flavors.




Homemade Ranch and Chipotle Ranch Dressing Mix:  I can't tell you how many times this homemade mix has come in handy, for dressing, for seasoning, for recipes, and thanks to the suggestion of my friend Liz, on popcorn!



Apple Cinnamon Vegan Baked Oatmeal:  A great make-ahead breakfast for busy mornings, loaded with lots of fiber and nutrition, without loads of added sugar.





Chana Masala: Think of this as Indian Chili--spiced chickpeas with rice make it a great cold-weather dinner.




Chocolate Zucchini Muffins with Strawberries:  A sweet, yet healthful treat.  Your kids will never know there is so much nutrition hidden inside!
 

Make-It-Your Own Asian Noodle and Vegetable Salad:  A great summer salad to make ahead for picnics, potlucks or a light supper.  Tastes great no matter what time of the year!


Quinoa and Curried Chickpea Salad:  One of my all-time favorite recipes.  Love making this up on Sunday, perfect for lunches the following week.
 

Homemade Pumpkins Spice Smoothie:  Vegetables for breakfast never tasted so delicious or healthful.  


The Best Barbecue Veggie Burgers:  Soy-free, bean-free veggie burgers, that my kids inhale as I smile with glee as they eat a load of veg.






Homemade Pad Thai:  The ultimate take-out, fake-out.




Greens and Ham Rolls:  Pizza dough rolled up with ham and kale, baked and ready for your kids' lunchbox or for a fun snack.


And two bonus recipes (I just couldn't narrow it down to just 12!!):

Baked Sweet Potato Chips:  Baked in your oven, crispy and tasty.



Homemade Mole Sauce:  My most recent savory recipe, make a big batch and use it to flavor up anything from potatoes to steak and in between.





It's hard not to include several others, 2012 was a great year of kitchen cooking!

Life is sweet,
SPC

1 comment:

Pro Gait Analysis said...

Fantastic post! I love the Greens and Ham Rolls, I think they will be a new addition to my daughter's lunch box. Thank you :)