CORNBREAD STUFFING DRESSING WITH SAUSAGE AND LEEKS

MOUTH-WATERING DELICIOUSNESS.  This recipe is the perfect combination of sweet and savory incorporates fennel spiced sausage and sweet Bosc pears with sinfully rich cornbread.  Is this “healthy”…well, not so much.  But it’s Thanksgiving and we’ve replaced the high calorie and fat loaded mashed potatoes so why not indulge a little?

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POMEGRANATE-WALNUT GAUCAMOLE

THIS RECIPE IS A MOUTH ZAPPER. I was inspired by Rick Bayless’s guacamole from the Red O and adapted his recipe slightly for a spiced-up version!  From the slight kick of the serrano chili to the fresh burst of sweetness from the pomegranates to the earthy crunch of walnuts, this is a fabulous fall accompaniment to this meal or as a mouthwatering starter.

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REAL DEAL CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE

IF YOU HAVE A SWEET TOOTH LIKE ME, THERE’S NO PASSING ON DESSERT. I wish I could take credit for this recipe, but I can’t.  This is 100% deliciousness from Against the Grain.  Our family eats minimal gluten and even if you don’t—this recipe rocks.  Who knew that the Mediterranean staple used in hummus and  starch extracted from tropical plants are what make this cookie not just gluten free but GRAIN-FREE too!  The tahini and arrowroot are combined with coconut sugar, coconut oil and chocolate chips to create a thin, chewy decadent treat that’s also nut-free!  It’s a miracle cookie!

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AVOCADO CILANTRO BIB LETTUCE SALAD

I’VE MANAGED TO GET BOTH MY HUSBAND AND KIDS HOOKED ON GREEN SALADS so I included this Avocado Cilantro Bibb Lettuce Salad because it’s incredibly easy to make and is packed with good fats.  And, for  those kids who don’t like avocado, don’t worry – it’s so blended into the dressing and they won’t have a clue! I’ve managed to add in some additional fiber too with broccoli stems!

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ROASTED CAULIFLOWER SALAD WITH LENTILS AND DATES

IN SERACH OF THE PERFECT SIDE? I love this Roasted Cauliflower (or Broccoflower) Salad with Lentils and Dates.  This recipe is loaded with antioxidants, vitamins and more animal-free protein and is also a great entrée salad too.  The rich flavors of the tahini, ginger, and cinnamon combine incredibly with the sweetness from the roasted cauliflower and the dates! Bonus points for simplicity—this salad can be prepared in advanced (separated) and then combined and tossed before dinner.

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SPICED BEER CAN CHICKEN

IN SEARCH OF A FOOL PROOF BBQ RECIPE? I might have found you just the solution that stirs sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors all together!  A pinch of cumin, coriander, paprika, garlic, lemon, salt and pepper with a splash of cayenne for a little kick and a can of beer is all you’ll need–now, here’s where you choose: Do you guzzle half of a cold one down (grinning) or shove a half-empty beer can up the bird’s ass and walk away smiling?  Protein done!

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GRAIN-FREE CHOCOLATE ZUCCHINI CAKE

WHO DOESN’T LOVE CHOCOLATE CAKE? I know I always find myself holding back from indulging in the sweetness of a good late night-sweet but we all need a little “yum” sometimes. When I first stumbled upon this recipe I found myself both intrigued and confused of how incorporating a vegetable like zucchini could possibly translate into a tasteful dessert. To my surprise however I was quick to learn not to judge a recipe by its ingredients. The result? A protein packed grain-free dessert that both my kids and I can enjoy without the hour delayed regrets that often follow sugary indulgence.

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KOHLRABI PIZZA BITES

CRAVING THOSE CARB-RIDEN, GREASY LITTLE PIZZA BITES THAT CLAIMED AN EYE-LEVEL SPOT IN EVERY GROCERY STORE BACK IN CIRCA 2004? Well, fret no more–I’ve cooked up (literally) the perfect solution, savory cheese and tomato topped kohlrabi! You know that vegetable that’s the new “it” thing at the farmer’s market? Well turns out it tastes pretty darn yummy after a little heating and seasoning!

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