Balsamic reduction is a game changer. I know some people make their own balsamic reduction, but I tried once and totally burned it. It turned black, filled my kitchen with an acrid smell, and left me scrubbing a pot with my salty tears. Okay, so I didn’t cry. But I didn’t feel great about the whole thing. I forgot about balsamic…
Salads
Grilled Chicken Salad with Warm, Pistachio-Crusted Goat Cheese
Warm pistachio-crusted goat cheese tops off this clean salad with cherries, jicama, grilled chicken and baby greens.
Wheat Berry Salad with Butternut Squash & Warm Cider Vinaigrette (Vegan)
This whole grain wheat berry salad will add a burst of color to any Thanksgiving table. Chunks of roasted butternut squash are tossed with bright pomegranate arils, sliced green apple, baby kale and candied walnuts, all bundled up in a warm cider vinaigrette.
Plant Power & A Quick Mediterranean Salad
I like quick, easy-to-assemble meals and snacks, so I keep a bunch of healthy staples on hand and prep fruits and vegetables when I have some time (like weekends). In my guest blog post for Sharon Palmer, “The Plant-Powered Dietitian,” I share exactly what those staples are, so head over for a list of my “must…
Acorn Squash with Red Quinoa, Almond, and Apple Salad in Maple Vinaigrette
Thanksgiving is tomorrow! If you’re still planning your menu, I’ve got a simple, wholesome side dish that combines some of the best Thanksgiving flavors in a pretty package. You roast acorn squash halves and then fill them with a red quinoa, fruit and nut salad all tossed in warm maple vinaigrette. So, on this Technique…
Canning Jar Salads
I’ve got salad-in-a-jar fever – and the only cure is MORE canning jars. Are you looking for an easy, stress-free way to eat more fruits and vegetables during the week? Do you want to find fun ways to get your kids to eat their greens? Do you have a little extra time on the weekend…
Eggless Chicken Caesar Salad (20 minute meal)
Skip the high-fat creamy bottled dressings or raw eggs, and get the same tangy flavor you love in Caesar salads with a vinaigrette dressing. This salad is robust enough to serve on its own, but it can be paired with soup or a side of whole wheat pasta for a heartier meal. Shortcuts: Halve prep…
Red Quinoa, Chicken, & Goat Cheese Power Salad
Welcome to 2012! Holiday indulgences are in 2011 – a whole *year* ago…now it’s time to focus on powering up for a healthy 2012. Toss this salad in your tupperware for a satisfying lunch that’s loaded with health-promoting foods. What’s in this salad that’s so good for you? Red Quinoa: Whole grains don’t have to…
Loaded BBQ Burger (hold the meat)
Calling all Meat Eaters, Veganistas, Flexitarians, and Whatever’s in the Fridge-Grabbers – I’ve got a thick, juicy burger that you’re all going to like. It’s slathered in BBQ sauce, topped with melted cheddar, and loaded with crispy romaine, a fresh tomato slice, and chunks of ripe avocado. Oh yeah, and instead of meat, it’s…
Caroline is a freelance writer, nutrition communication consultant, and counselor with a holistic approach to healthy living. 
