Practical tips, reliable recipes, & family-friendly food ideas

Homemade Mac n Cheese Recipe

A good deal of getting our kiddos to eat what we eat involves compromise.  If I’m going to introduce something new during dinner, I try to make sure it’s accompanied by something familiar, something I know my kids will enjoy.  Mac n cheese is one of our “go to” side dishes.  If my daughter could choose just one thing to eat for the rest of her life, macaroni and cheese would be.. Read More

Easy Crispy Asian Chicken with Soyaki Sauce

Have you wondered how the chicken (like General Tso’s or Crispy Honey) at Chinese takeout establishments could achieve such crispy chicken texture without deep frying it?  A while back, I heard the secret was cornstarch. I decided to give it a try on my own, making my best guesses on recreating the texture.  This recipe doesn’t have quite the buildup of batter on the outside, but the chicken gets nice and crispy… Read More

Spring Family Menu 4 – Easy Family Meals x 5

It’s still Spring (technically), but summer is near.  This week’s menu features 5 easy family meals with a couple of little surprises for the grill.  I love grilled food! Not only does the grill impart a distinct, flavorful char on things we cook on it, but it makes clean up quick and easy.  I also find that cooking outdoors helps to keep our (indoor) kitchen nice and cool in the warmer.. Read More

Super Easy Southwest Pasta Recipe

This is one of many ridiculously easy pasta recipes I have up my sleeve (and the first to be officially documented).  I’ve shared it with countless friends and family members who have all given me positive feedback regarding the ease and the taste of this flavorful, healthy, kid-approved pasta recipe.  I hope it will become a favorite weeknight dinner for your family, too!   Some quick tips before you get started:.. Read More