Healthy strawberry & white bean chopped salad with balsamic grilled chicken, pecans & goat cheese. Easy summer lunch!

Ingredient Information

• Chicken Breast– You can grill the chicken and chop the veggies ahead of time for a quick assembly later.
• Olive Oil
• Balsamic Vinegar– or a quick chicken marinade
• Romain Lettuce– If you don’t have romaine, spinach or a spring mix blend pairs beautifully with strawberries and balsamic
• White Beans– cannellini or great northern beans work best)
• Chopped Strawberries– if you smell your strawberries and they smell like strawberries then they are ripe!
• Red Onion
• Pecans– Toss the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until they are fragrant. It adds a deep, smoky crunch
• Goat Cheese– substitute with feta if preferred
• Dijion Mustard– acts as an emulsifier and adds tang
• Honey– for a touch of natural sweetness
• Garlic Powder
• Salt– use liberally in this recipe and all others

Nutrition Benefits at a Glance

This recipe is a powerhouse of nutrients. Strawberries provide a massive dose of Vitamin C and antioxidants, while the white beans offer plant-based fiber to aid digestion. Combined with the lean protein from the chicken, this meal is designed to keep your energy stable all afternoon.

Chopped Salad For Summer

Chopped Wedge Salad

Chopped Kale Waldorf Salad

Summer Salad w/ Lemon Vinaigrette

Chopped Fajita Lettuce Cups

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Strawberry & White Bean Chopped Salad

Healthy strawberry & white bean chopped salad with balsamic grilled chicken, pecans & goat cheese. Easy summer lunch!

Course Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword grilled chicken, salad, strawberry

Prep Time 17 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Ingredients

Salad

• 2 large chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 head of romaine lettuce
• 1 cup white beans rinsed
• 2 cups chopped strawberries
• ½ red onion chopped
• ½ cup pecans chopped
• ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese

Dressing:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt to taste

Instructions

• Place chicken breasts in a large zip lock bag and use a meat mallet to make them all an even width.
• Then add in 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar to the bag, zip it up and shake it around to coat the chicken. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
• Grill the chicken until cooked through (165 degrees inside) and set aside.
• Take your romaine, chop it thoroughly and add to a large bowl.
• Add in beans,strawberries, red onion, pecans and goat cheese.
• In a mason jar combine all of the dressing ingredients and shake to combine.
• Chop the chicken and add to the bowl along with the dressing. Toss to combine!

The post Strawberry & White Bean Chopped Salad appeared first on Little Bits of Real Food.

Crispy potatoes meet a creamy cucumber dill sauce. This easy, healthy side features roasted gold potatoes over a refreshing Greek yogurt dressing.

Ingredient List

• Plain Yogurt– The ideal hybrid base for a rich yet tangy mouthfeel
• Light Mayonnaise
• Garlic Powder– Brings a robust, savory flavor to both the potatoes and the dressing
• Lemon Juice
• Chopped Dill– Chopped finely to infuse the dressing with iconic, earthy brightness.
• Dijon Mustard– To provide acidity, depth, and emulsification
• English Cucumber– Deseeded and finely chopped for a refreshing, crunch factor
• Avocado Oil– A high smoke point oil essential for achieving maximum crispiness without burning
• Petite Gold Potato– Naturally buttery and tender with thin skins that crisp up beautifully

Step By Step

1. Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, stir together the Greek yogurt, mayo, garlic powder, lemon juice, dill, Dijon mustard, and chopped cucumber. Set this aside in the fridge so the flavors can blend.
3. Cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Toss them with the avocado oil and a bit of salt.
4. Place potatoes on the baking sheet. Roast in the oven at 425°F for 35-40 minutes until they are golden and crispy.
5. Spread the dressing in a thick layer on a plate or platter. Pile the hot potatoes right on top and serve immediately.

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Potato Side Dish

Unlike traditional potato salads that are heavily laden with heavy mayonnaise, this recipe uses a clever base of plain Greek yogurt. This simple swap slashes the calories while adding a punch of protein and a natural tanginess that cuts right through the richness of the roasted potatoes. Combined with finely chopped English cucumber, the dressing doubles as a vibrant tzatziki-style bed that makes this a remarkably healthy potato side dish.

Roasted and Crispy Potatoes Galore

Crispy Garlic Potatoes {Whole30}

Maple Thyme Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Smashed & Loaded Potatoes

Pesto Hasselback Potatoes

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Crispy Potatoes with Creamy Dill Dressing

Crispy potatoes meet a creamy cucumber dill sauce. This easy, healthy side features roasted gold potatoes over a refreshing Greek yogurt dressing.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword dill, greek yogurt pasta, platter potato salad, potato salad, roasted potatoes, summer, yogurt dressing

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes minutes

Total Time 55 minutes minutes

Servings 3

Calories 333kcal

Ingredients

• ½ cup plain greek yogurt
• ¼ cup light mayonnaise
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp chopped dill
• 1 tsp dijon mustard
• ½ cup deseeded and finely chopped english cucumber
• 2 tbsp avocado oil
• 1.5 lbs petite gold potatoes

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a bowl, stir together the Greek yogurt, mayo, garlic powder, lemon juice, dill, Dijon mustard, and chopped cucumber. Set this aside in the fridge so the flavors can blend.
• Cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Toss them with the avocado oil and a bit of salt.
• Place potatoes on the baking sheet. Roast in the oven at 425°F for 35-40 minutes until they are golden and crispy.
• Spread the dressing in a thick layer on a plate or platter. Pile the hot potatoes right on top and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 333kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 200mg | Potassium: 1067mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 59IU | Vitamin C: 47mg | Calcium: 72mg | Iron: 2mg

The post Crispy Potatoes over Creamy Dill Dressing appeared first on Little Bits of Real Food.

Savory ground beef meets roasted sweetness. A healthy, gluten-free twist on comfort food that’s ready in under an hour!

Ingredient Information

• Olive Oil
• Green Bell Peppers– any color bell pepper will work great
• Yellow Onion
• Garlic– don’t be afraid if jarred garlic
• Ground Beef– Not a fan of beef? Swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option
• Tomato Paste
• Ketchup
• Water
• Maple Syrup– If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or brown sugar works perfectly to cut through the acidity of the tomatoes
• Dijion Mustard– this is different from yellow mustard and it has a little better kick
• Chili Powder
• Worcestershire Sauce– feel free to use this liberally for the recipe
• Kosher Salt
• Sweet Potato– If you prefer a classic vibe, this filling is just as delicious inside a baked russet potato.

Pro Tip

If you’re meal prepping, store the Sloppy Joe meat and the roasted potatoes separately. They reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven for a quick 5-minute lunch!

Have you tried stuffing your sweet potatoes with anything unusual lately? Let me know your favorite toppings!

Sweet Potatoes Recipes Galore

Sweet Potato & Chicken Apple Sausage Quinoa Bake

Spiralized Sweet Potato Casserole w/ Maple Pecan Crumble

Sweet Potato & Kale Chili {Whole30}

Crispy Garlic Sweet Potato Wedges

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Sloppy Joes Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Savory ground beef meets roasted sweetness. A healthy, gluten-free twist on comfort food that’s ready in under an hour!

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Keyword easy dinner, ground beef, sloppy joes, stuffed sweet potatoes

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 1 hour hour

Servings 4

Calories 541kcal

Ingredients

• 1 tsp olive oil
• ⅓ green bell pepper minced
• ½ large yellow onion minced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 Tbsp tomato paste
• ⅔ cup ketchup*
• ⅓ cup water
• 1 Tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp dijon mustard
• ¾ tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• 4 sweet potatoes

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 400°F.
• Prick the sweet potatoes with a fork and roast them on a baking sheet for 45–60 minutes until tender.
• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bell pepper and onion, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in the garlic for the last 60 seconds.
• Add the ground beef to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
• Stir in the tomato paste first to let it “toast” for a minute. Then, add the ketchup, water, maple syrup, mustard, chili powder, worcestershire sauce, and salt.
• Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10–15 minutes until the sauce has thickened and coated the beef beautifully.
• Slice the roasted sweet potatoes down the center and fluff the insides slightly with a fork.
• Generously ladle the Sloppy Joe mixture into the center of each potato.

Notes

• I like to use primal kitchen ketchup to lower the sugar!

Nutrition

Calories: 541kcal | Carbohydrates: 54g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 81mg | Sodium: 555mg | Potassium: 1161mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 32273IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 104mg | Iron: 4mg

The post Sloppy Joe Stuffed Sweet Potatoes appeared first on Little Bits of Real Food.

The ultimate fusion burger! Ginger-garlic chicken patties with a zesty Kewpie slaw and a kick of spicy chili crunch.

Ingredient List

• Ground Chicken– Swap ground chicken for ground turkey or even ground pork for a more traditional “potsticker” feel.
• Ground Ginger
• Garlic Powder
• Green Onions
• Soy Sauce– Use Tamari or liquid aminos instead of soy sauce
• Salt
• Coleslaw Mix– your produce section has this ready to go
• Kewpie Mayo– If you can’t find Kewpie, use regular mayonnaise with a pinch of sugar and a drop of rice vinegar.
• Lime Juice
• Chili Sauce– Not a fan of spice? Swap the chili crunch for a drizzle of honey or hoisin sauce for a sweet-savory vibe.
• Burger Buns– gluten-free bun or in large lettuce wraps if you are looking for an alternative.

Pro Tip

• Since ground chicken can be sticky, wet your hands slightly with water or a tiny bit of oil before forming the patties. This prevents the meat from sticking to your skin and helps you get a smooth, even shape!

More Recipes with Ground Chicken

Orange Chicken Meatballs

Caramelized Fennel & Date Chicken Sausage

Thai Curry Cauliflower Rice and Chicken Sausage Bake

BBQ Bacon Chicken Meatballs

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Chicken Dumpling Burgers

The ultimate fusion burger! Ginger-garlic chicken patties with a zesty Kewpie slaw and a kick of spicy chili crunch.

Course Dinner, lunch

Cuisine American, Asian

Keyword burgers, dumplings, slaw

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 7 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 598kcal

Ingredients

Burger

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 4 chopped green onions
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• ½ tsp salt

Coleslaw:

• 3 cups coleslaw mix
• ¼ cup kewpi mayo
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp soy sauce

Spread:

• ½ cup kewpi mayo
• 2 tbsp chili crunch
• 4 Burger Buns

Instructions

The Patties

• In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ground ginger, garlic powder, chopped green onions, soy sauce, and salt.
• Divide into 4 patties.
• Pro Tip: Since chicken is leaner than beef, lightly wet your hands to prevent sticking while shaping.

The Cooking Process

• Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat with a splash of neutral oil.
• Cook for about 5–6 minutes per side. Because this is chicken, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• While the burgers cook, lightly toast your buns. A toasted bun provides the structural integrity needed for the creamy slaw.

The “Dumpling” Elements

• Whisk the Kewpie mayo, lime juice, and soy sauce in a medium bowl. Toss in the coleslaw mix.
• Stir the chili crunch into the remaining Kewpie mayo.

Assemble the Burger

• Bottom Bun: A thick layer of the Chili Crunch Spread.
• The Patty: Hot and juicy straight from the pan.
• The Slaw: Pile it high—the crunch is essential here.
• Top Bun: Add another thin swipe of spread if you’re feeling bold.

Nutrition

Calories: 598kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 42g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 21g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 115mg | Sodium: 1604mg | Potassium: 824mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 201IU | Vitamin C: 23mg | Calcium: 106mg | Iron: 3mg

The post Chicken Dumpling Burgers appeared first on Little Bits of Real Food.

Upgrade your breakfast with this decadent Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake. Golden, bubbly, and perfect for a crowd!

Ingredient Information

• Mini Crossants– If you can’t find croissants, a loaf of brioche or challah torn into cubes works as a great substitute.
• Ham– Swap the ham for sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for a savory veggie version.
• Onion– Chopped and caramelized for a deep, rich flavor.
• Chives– Adds a bright, herbal pop
• Swiss Cheese– Shredded for that classic melt
• Gruyere Cheese– Don’t have Gruyère? Sharp white cheddar or even fontina are excellent melting alternatives
• Eggs– The protein-packed custard base
• Whole Milk– any milk preference will work for this recipe
• Dijon– Adds a subtle tang
• Stone Ground Mustard– Provides texture and a bit of “zip.”

Step By Step

1. Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Tear the croissants into large chunks. Layer half in the dish, followed by the ham, sautéed onions, and half of the cheese blend. Top with the remaining croissants.
3. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, mustards, 2 tbsp chives, salt, and pepper.
4. Evenly pour the mixture over the croissants. Press down lightly to submerge. Top with the remaining cheese.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
6. Once removed from the oven, top with remaining chives.

This savory bake is versatile and pairs well with several sides:

• Light & Fresh: Serve alongside a crisp arugula salad with a simple lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the cheese.
• The Brunch Spread: Pair it with a fresh fruit platter and a round of mimosas or spicy bloody marys.
• Sweet & Savory: Add a side of maple-glazed bacon or a small bowl of Greek yogurt topped with honey and berries for a balanced meal.

Easter Brunch Recipes for the Big Day

Spring Veggie Salad with Creamy Feta Herb Dressing

Twice Baked Ranch Potaotes

Easter Leftover Egg Salad

Whipped Goat Cheese with Honey Glazed Carrots and Pistachios

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Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake

Upgrade your breakfast with this decadent Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake. Golden, bubbly, and perfect for a crowd!

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Keyword blue cheese, breakfast bake, croissant, ham

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 41 minutes minutes

Servings 10

Ingredients

• 10 store bought mini croissants
• ½ lb ham slices
• 1 sweet onion chopped & caramelized*
• ¼ cup chopped chives
• 4 oz swiss cheese shredded
• 4 oz gruyere cheese shredded
• 8 eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tbsp dijon
• 1 tbsp stone ground mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
• Tear the croissants into large chunks. Layer half in the dish, followed by the ham, sautéed onions, and half of the cheese blend. Top with the remaining croissants.
• In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, mustards, 2 tbsp chives, salt, and pepper.
• Evenly pour the mixture over the croissants. Press down lightly to submerge. Top with the remaining cheese.
• Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
• Once removed from the oven, top with remaining chives.

Notes

*to caramelize onion, add 1 tbsp oil to a pan over medium heat.  Add onions and cook until caramelized.

The post Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake appeared first on Little Bits of Real Food.

Creamy Feta Herb Dressing meets crisp spring veggies. This chopped salad is healthy, vibrant, and ready in minutes.

Ingredient List

• Asparagus– Blanched for a tender-crisp snap
• Peas
• Butter Lettuce– Soft, sweet, and the perfect delicate base
• Radish– Chopped for a peppery crunch
• Garbanzo Beans– Rinsed and drained for a nutty protein boost.
• Avocado– Chopped for healthy fats and creaminess
• Feta– Salty and tangy
• Greek Yogurt– For a probiotic-rich, creamy texture
• Olive Oil– Heart-healthy fats
• Lemon Juice– Bright acidity to cut through the richness
• Dijon Mustard– An emulsifier with a little kick
• Parsley
• Dill–  Forget store-bought. This herb-infused dressing uses fresh mint, dill, and parsley to create a “garden in a bowl” experience
• Mint

Step By Step

1. Boil water then add in chopped asparagus and boil for 2 minutes, then add in the frozen peas and cook for another minute. Then use a slotted spoon to take out the asparagus and peas and place them in a bowl of ice water.
2. Chop the butter lettuce and radishes into small bite sized pieces and add them to a large bowl. Add in the asparagus and peas.
3. Then add in garbanzo beans and avocado.
4. Make the dressing by combining all dressing ingredients except the herbs in a blender and blend until smooth. Add herbs and pulse until they are fine.
5. Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat. Then top with remaining feta.

Pro Tip

• If you want to make this for the week, keep the dressing on the side. Butter lettuce is delicate and will wilt if dressed too early. Add the avocado just before serving to prevent it from browning!

Every Salad Style to Meet Your Needs

Warm Kale Waldorf Salad

Grilled Corn & Avocado Salad

Shaved Brussels Sprout & Kale Salad with Sweet Basil Dressing

Fig and Sage Roasted Broccoli Salad

Safe this pin for Spring Veggie Salad with Creamy Feta Herb Dressing for later.

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Spring Veggie Salad with Creamy Feta Herb Dressing

Creamy Feta Herb Dressing meets crisp spring veggies. This chopped salad is healthy, vibrant, and ready in minutes.

Course Salad

Cuisine American, Mediterranean

Keyword chickpeas, feta cheese, salad, spring, spring salad, veggies

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Servings 8

Calories 233kcal

Ingredients

Salad:

• 1 bunch of asparagus
• 2 cups frozen peas
• 4.5 oz butter lettuce
• 2 radishes chopped
• 1 cup garbanzo beans
• 1 avocado chopped
• 4 oz Feta

Dressing:

• 4 oz feta
• 2 oz Greek yogurt
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley
• 1 tsp dill
• 1 tsp mint

Instructions

• Boil water then add in chopped asparagus and boil for 2 minutes, then add in the frozen peas and cook for another minute. Then use a slotted spoon to take out the asparagus and peas and place them in a bowl of ice water.
• Chop the butter lettuce and radishes into small bite sized pieces and add them to a large bowl. Add in the asparagus and peas.
• Then add in garbanzo beans and avocado.
• Make the dressing by combining all dressing ingredients except the herbs in a blender and blend until smooth. Add herbs and pulse until they are fine.
• Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat. Then top with remaining feta.

Nutrition

Calories: 233kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 26mg | Sodium: 339mg | Potassium: 350mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1027IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 177mg | Iron: 2mg

The post Spring Veggie Salad with Creamy Feta Herb Dressing appeared first on Little Bits of Real Food.

Upgrade your meal prep with these savory Bacon Gruyère bites. Crispy, cheesy, and naturally gluten-free!

Ingredient Information

• Bacon– Thick-cut works best for texture
• Onion– Finely chopped to provide a sweet, savory base.
• Almond Flour– Unlike white flour, almond flour is low-glycemic and packed with healthy fats and Vitamin E, keeping you full longer.
• Baking Powder– this is different from
• Salt– use liberally and from the heart
• Black Pepper
• Egg– A powerhouse of high-quality protein and choline, essential for brain health.
• Gruyere Cheese– Shredded (freshly grated is always better for melting!)

Step By Step

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy. Place it on paper towels to cool, then chop it.
3. Cook the onion in the bacon grease for 5-7 minutes, until soft.
4. In a large bowl, mix together almond flour, baking powder, salt, pepper and eggs.
5. Stir in the cooked bacon, onion, and ¾ cup of shredded cheese.
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Scoop the mixture into balls on the prepared baking sheet and flatten them slightly.
8. Top with the remaining cheese (or extra if you like).
9. Bake for about 13-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are set.
10. Enjoy warm or store them in an airtight container in the fridge to reheat later!

The Best Way to Serve

These bites are incredibly versatile. To elevate your breakfast game, try serving them:

• With a Side of Greens: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the cheese and bacon perfectly.
• The “Dip” Method: Serve with a side of spicy Dijon mustard or a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with chives.
• On the Go: These are meal-prep heroes. You can make a double batch on Sunday, freeze them, and pop them in the microwave for 30 seconds on your way out the door.

Great Morning Breakfast Meal

Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake

Bacon & Gruyere Breakfast Bites

One Pot Caramelized Onion and Sausage Pasta

Coconut Curry Dumpling Meatballs

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Bacon Gruyere Breakfast Bites

Upgrade your meal prep with these savory Bacon Gruyère bites. Crispy, cheesy, and naturally gluten-free!

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Keyword bacon, breakfast, breakfast bites, egg bites

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 13 minutes minutes

Servings 18

Calories 154kcal

Ingredients

• 12 oz. bacon
• 1 onion chopped
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 4 eggs lightly beaten
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F.
• Cook the bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy. Place it on paper towels to cool, then chop it.
• Cook the onion in the bacon grease for 5-7 minutes, until soft.
• In a large bowl, mix together almond flour, baking powder, salt, pepper and eggs.
• Stir in the cooked bacon, onion, and ¾ cup of shredded cheese.
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Scoop the mixture into balls on the prepared baking sheet and flatten them slightly.
• Top with the remaining cheese (or extra if you like).
• Bake for about 13-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are set.
• Enjoy warm or store them in an airtight container in the fridge to reheat later!

Nutrition

Calories: 154kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 54mg | Sodium: 303mg | Potassium: 65mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 110IU | Vitamin C: 0.5mg | Calcium: 88mg | Iron: 1mg

The post Bacon & Gruyere Breakfast Bites appeared first on Little Bits of Real Food.

Sweet, savory, and creamy. This whipped dill goat cheese with honey carrots is the perfect easy, healthy appetizer.

Ingredient Information

• Goat Cheese– Make sure your goat cheese and cream cheese are at room temperature before whipping to avoid lumps
• Cream Cheese
• Salt
• Dill– fresh dill is best for this recipe
• Lemon Juice– be sure to roll your lemon on the counter before you juice
• Avocado Oil– olive oil can also work if that is all you have
• Chopped Carrots– Cut your carrots into uniform “coins” or small cubes to ensure they cook evenly and are easy to scoop.
• Honey
• Pistachio– rough chop the pistachios so they are perfect for each bite

Step By Step

1. In a bowl combine softened goat cheese, cream cheese, salt, dill and lemon juice.
2. Use a hand mixer or whisk to whip and combine the ingredients.
3. In a pan over medium heat, add 1 tbsp oil. Once the oil is hot, add carrots and cook, stirring occasionally until carrots are caramelized. Top with honey and toss to coat.
4. Pour carrots over whipped goat cheese and top with chopped pistachios.

Pro Tip

Serving Suggestions: Serve this with toasted baguette slices, sourdough crackers, or even cucumber rounds for a low-carb option.

So Many Ways to Enjoy Goat Cheese Dips

Whipped Goat Cheese with Bacon & Pecans

Whipped Goat Cheese with Honey, Cranberry & Walnuts

Whipped Goat Cheese with Crispy Pepperoni & Hot Honey

Whipped Goat Cheese with Pistachios & Cherries

Be sure to Pin this Whipped Goat Cheese with Honey Glazed Carrots & Pistachios for enjoy later.

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Whipped Goat Cheese with Honey Glazed Carrots and Pistachios

Sweet, savory, and creamy. This whipped dill goat cheese with honey carrots is the perfect easy, healthy appetizer.

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Keyword appetizer, goat cheese, honey, roasted carrots

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Servings 10

Ingredients

• 8 oz goat cheese softened
• 4 oz cream cheese softened
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp chopped dill
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp avocado oil
• 2 cups chopped carrots
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tbsp honey
• ¼ cup chopped pistachios

Instructions

• In a bowl combine softened goat cheese, cream cheese, salt, dill and lemon juice.
• Use a hand mixer or whisk to whip and combine the ingredients.
• In a pan over medium heat, add 1 tbsp oil. Once the oil is hot, add carrots and cook, stirring occasionally until carrots are caramelized. Top with honey and toss to coat.
• Pour carrots over whipped goat cheese and top with chopped pistachios.

The post Whipped Goat Cheese with Honey Glazed Carrots and Pistachios appeared first on Little Bits of Real Food.

Upgrade your pasta night with this one-pot meal: Savory sausage, slow-cooked onions, and a creamy parmesan sauce.

Ingredient Information

• Sausage – use any type of sausage you enjoy, spicy, hot they all work
• Sweet Onion– Thinly sliced and caramelized for natural sweetness
• Minced Garlic
• Bone Broth– Adds richness and nutrients to the “sauce.”
• Pasta – any size an shape will work, rigatoni is our favorite
• Asparagus– Adds a fresh, snappy crunch to balance the richness
• Heavy Cream– Just enough to make it luxurious without being heavy.
• Parmesan– Use freshly grated Parmesan if possible; it melts much smoother than the bottled stuff.
• Salt & Pepper– measure both of these with the heart

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Pasta

• Maximum Flavor, Minimum Cleanup: By cooking the pasta directly in bone broth, every noodle absorbs the savory goodness, and you only have one pot to scrub.
• The Flavor Foundation: Sautéing the onions in the rendered sausage fat creates a rich, “liquid gold” base that makes the sauce taste like it simmered for hours.
• Perfectly Balanced: The sweetness of the caramelized onions and the richness of the parmesan are perfectly cut by the fresh, earthy crunch of the asparagus.
• Protein-Packed: Using chicken bone broth instead of water adds extra protein and a silkier texture to the final sauce.

One Pot Meals for the Week

One Pot Chicken Shawarma

One-Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Rice

One-Pot Chicken Enchilada Rice

One Pot Rosemary Bacon Orzo

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One Pot Caramelized Onion & Sausage Pasta

Upgrade your pasta night with this one-pot meal: Savory sausage, slow-cooked onions, and a creamy parmesan sauce.

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Keyword asparagus, one pot meal, pasta, Sausage

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 24 minutes minutes

Servings 8

Calories 452kcal

Ingredients

• 1 lb sausage
• 1 sweet onion thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 4 cups chicken bone broth
• 1 lb pasta i like rigatoni but use your favorite!
• 1 bunch asparagus chopped
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Set a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sausage (if using links, remove the casings first). Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
• Turn the heat down to medium. Add your thinly sliced onions to the sausage fat. Cook them low and slow, stirring occasionally, for about 12–15 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for just 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in a splash of the chicken bone broth to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot.
• Add the rest of the chicken bone broth and bring it to a rolling boil. Stir in your pasta. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer. Set your timer for 13 minutes.
• When there are about 5 minutes left on the timer, toss the chopped asparagus right on top of the pasta. Put the lid back on to let them steam-cook until tender-crisp.
• Once the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed (it should look saucy, not soupy), turn off the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Then add in the sausage and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Nutrition

Calories: 452kcal | Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 50mg | Sodium: 522mg | Potassium: 335mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 167IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 83mg | Iron: 2mg

The post One Pot Caramelized Onion and Sausage Pasta appeared first on Little Bits of Real Food.

Easy one-pan dinner! Juicy chicken dumpling meatballs baked in a creamy, spinach-packed coconut curry sauce.

Ingredient List

• Light Coconut Milk– make sure and use the canned version which has only light coconut milk with no additives
• Soy Sauce– tamari (for Gluten-Free) or Coconut Aminos (for Paleo/Lower Sodium)
• Curry Powder– ginger and curry powder (which contains turmeric) are famous for their anti-inflammatory properties and digestive support.
• Garlic Powder
• Grated Ginger– if you are lucky you can usually find grated ginger in frozen cubes or canned in the produce section at your local store.
• Spinach– spinach is loaded with Vitamin C, K, and iron, helping with energy levels
• Ground Chicken– ground turkey can also be used in
• Garlic Powder
• Green Onions– you can use the whole green onion, green and white ends. You just need to trim the roots off.
• Salt– I like to be liberal with my salting
• Chili Crunch– for an extra kick and crunch

Step By Step

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2. In a 9×9 inch pan combine 1 can of light coconut milk, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp curry powder, 2 tsp garlic powder and 2 tsp grated ginger and stir to combine. Add in spinach and stir to mix it in.
3. In a separate bowl combine ground chicken, 1 tsp ground ginger, 1 tsp garlic powder, chopped green onions, 2 tbsp soy sauce and ½ tsp salt. Mix to combine.
4. Scoop meatballs into roughly 12 meatballs and nestle them into the sauce in the pan.
5. Place in the oven and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove and stir the meatballs and the sauce.
7. Serve over rice!

How to Enjoy Your Curry

While this is delicious straight out of the pan, here are three ways to level it up:

1. Over Grains: Serve atop a bed of jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up every drop of that golden sauce.
2. Noodle Bowl: Toss in some cooked rice noodles or udon for a “laksa” style experience.
3. Low-Carb Style: Enjoy it as a hearty soup or serve over roasted cauliflower.

Coconut with Curry or Any Other Combo

Cashew Coconut Crusted Salmon over Creamy Curry Pasta

Coconut Sweet Potato Curry

Mango Coconut Chicken Salad

Curry Almond Butter Chicken Salad Sandwich

Be sure to Pin this Coconut Curry Dumpling Meatballs to make later.

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Coconut Curry Dumpling Meatballs

Easy one-pan dinner! Juicy chicken dumpling meatballs baked in a creamy, spinach-packed coconut curry sauce.

Course Dinner, lunch

Cuisine Asian, Thai

Keyword coconut, curry, dumplings, meatballs

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 191kcal

Ingredients

Sauce:

• 1 can light coconut milk
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp grated ginger
• 2 cups spinach

Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 4 chopped green onions
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• ½ tsp salt

Garnish:

• Chili crunch
• Green onion

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
• In a 9×9 inch pan combine 1 can of light coconut milk, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp curry powder, 2 tsp garlic powder and 2 tsp grated ginger and stir to combine. Add in spinach and stir to mix it in.
• In a separate bowl combine ground chicken, 1 tsp ground ginger, 1 tsp garlic powder, chopped green onions, 2 tbsp soy sauce and ½ tsp salt. Mix to combine.
• Scoop meatballs into roughly 12 meatballs and nestle them into the sauce in the pan.
• Place in the oven and bake for 30 minutes.
• Remove and stir the meatballs and the sauce.
• Serve over rice!

Nutrition

Calories: 191kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 98mg | Sodium: 1379mg | Potassium: 770mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.5g | Vitamin A: 1421IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 35mg | Iron: 2mg

The post Coconut Curry Dumpling Meatballs appeared first on Little Bits of Real Food.

The easiest dessert! Flaky pie crust rounds topped with sweet, juicy strawberries and cream. Ready in just 15 minutes.

Ingredient List

• Pie Crust– store bought crust is what makes this recipe so quick and simple
• Strawberries– the combo of large and small pieces of strawberries works great for this recipe.
• Sugar– white sugar is truly the only thing that can be used in this recipe
• Whipping Cream– a quick toss in the mixer and you have homemade whipped cream
• Vanilla Extract– measure with your heart for the vanilla

Pro Tip

Want to take it up a notch? Try these presentation styles:

• The Napoleon: Layer three thin layers of crust with cream and berries in between for a high-end, stacked look.
• Shortcake Fries: Cut the pie dough into thin strips before baking. Serve them in a glass with a side of strawberry “salsa” and whipped cream dip.
• Ice Cream Sandwich: Swap the whipped cream for a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream while the crust is still slightly warm.

Simple Desserts for Busy Nights

Pecan, White Chocolate & Cranberry Tarts

Chocolate Orange Energy Balls

Chocolate Dipped Raspberry Energy Truffles

Chocolate Peppermint Freezer Fudge

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Pie Crust Strawberry Shortcakes

The easiest dessert! Flaky pie crust rounds topped with sweet, juicy strawberries and cream. Ready in just 15 minutes.

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword pie crust, pie dough, strawberry, strawberry dessert

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Servings 2

Ingredients

• 1 roll of pie dough
• Sugar to top
• 2 cups chopped strawberries
• 2 tbsp sugar
• Whipped cream

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
• Roll out the pie dough then use a round cookie cutter or wide mouth jar to cut 6 circles out of the dough.
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place each pie round on the sheet. Sprinkle each with sugar to coat.
• Bake the pie rounds for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown on the edges.
• While the pie dough cooks, add chopped strawberries to a bowl and top with 2 tbsp sugar. Use a fork or potato masher to mash the strawberries slightly. This will bring out their juices and make a sauce for them.
• Once the pie rounds are cooked. Top each with strawberries and whipped cream!

The post Pie Crust Strawberry Shortcakes appeared first on Little Bits of Real Food.

The ultimate game day dip! Creamy whipped blue cheese topped with crispy buffalo chicken nuggets. Quick and easy.

Ingredient Information

• Cream Cheese– tub or block will work, use your favorite
• Crumble Blue Cheese– provides that iconic tang and punch, buy it in a block or pre crumbled
• Milk
• Chicken Nuggets– use your favorite high-quality brand (extra crispy is best!
• Buffalo Sauce– For that classic vinegar-and-cayenne heat

Step By Step

1. In a bowl, combine blue cheese, cream cheese and milk, then season with salt.
2. Cook nuggets in an air fryer or oven until crispy.
3. Chop the nuggets into small pieces and add to a bowl. Pour in the buffalo sauce and stir to coat.
4. Pour nuggets over the cheese mixture.
5. Serve with crackers, carrots and celery!

Pro Tip

To make this a complete appetizer spread, serve your whipped blue cheese with:

• Fresh Veggies: Celery sticks and carrot planks are the classic choices to cut through the richness.
• Crunchy Carbs: Thick-cut potato chips, toasted baguette slices, or sturdy pita chips.
• Sweet Balance: A drizzle of honey over the buffalo chicken adds a “hot honey” vibe that pairs beautifully with blue cheese.

Dip Baby Dip

The Ultimate Bacon & Hot Honey Chicken Pretzel Dip

Whipped Goat Cheese with Crispy Pepperoni & Hot Honey

Whipped Goat Cheese with Bacon & Pecans

Whipped Goat Cheese with Honey, Cranberry & Walnuts

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Whipped Blue Cheese with Crispy Buffalo Chicken

The ultimate game day dip! Creamy whipped blue cheese topped with crispy buffalo chicken nuggets. Quick and easy.

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Keyword blue cheese, buffalo chicken, dip, whipped blue cheese

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Servings 10

Ingredients

• 8 oz. cream cheese
• 1 cup crumbled blue cheese
• ¼ cup milk
• Salt to taste
• 3 cups of chicken nuggets
• ½ cup buffalo sauce

Instructions

• In a bowl, combine blue cheese, cream cheese and milk, then season with salt.
• Cook nuggets in an air fryer or oven until crispy.
• Chop the nuggets into small pieces and add to a bowl. Pour in the buffalo sauce and stir to coat.
• Pour nuggets over the cheese mixture.
• Serve with crackers, carrots and celery!

The post Whipped Blue Cheese with Crispy Buffalo Chicken appeared first on Little Bits of Real Food.