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Grain Free Sunbutter and Jelly Bars | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Grain Free Sunbutter and Jelly Bars

No time to make a sandwich? No problem. Grab some grain free sunbutter and jelly bars from the freezer and an allergen friendly lunch is ready in no time.

Grain Free Sunbutter and Jelly Bars | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

We’ve been back to school for exactly one week. And I’m already sick of packing lunches. Anybody else?

In all honesty I don’t mind it *too* much. But it sure is nice when I have some easy things to pack that are filling and nutritious.

Skip the nuts.

Of course I’m always conscious of allergies too. So while peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are about the easiest thing to make I don’t pack them in my daughter’s lunch (even though she is not allergic to nuts).

Recently I started using sunbutter in place of nut butters. My kids love it! I love that I don’t have to worry about them getting nuts on their baby sister when they eat it. Plus I can send it to school without potentially causing another child harm.

That means my daughter does get sunbutter sandwiches once in a while. They are easy and delicious.

Grain Free Sunbutter and Jelly Bars | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Skip the bread.

But there is something even easier!

Grain free sunbutter and jelly bars are easy to make, easy to pack and easy to eat. You get the added bonus that you don’t have to worry about making or finding decent bread! This is especially key if you are gluten, grain or anything else free.

To make the dough simply dump all of the ingredients in a bowl and mix. The “jelly” filling is just three ingredients pureed in the blender for thirty seconds.

Then pour, bake and eat.

Grain Free Sunbutter and Jelly Bars | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Skip the long lunch prep.

I like to make a big batch so I can keep a bunch in the freezer. Then packing lunch is easy and has virtually no preparation. In fact kids can pack it themselves!

A sunbutter and jelly bar paired with veggies and dip and some fresh fruit is a great lunch. Or you can really boost the nutrition factor by pairing it with a thermos of your favorite soup. My daughter loves split pea!

Grain Free Sunbutter and Jelly Bars | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Change the flavor.

Let your kids pick the jelly flavor. Strawberry is a favorite here. But raspberry, cherry and blueberry all work well.

If your kids don’t like jelly then you can make the bars without the filling. It will be like a sunbutter and honey sandwich.

Are you in need of another easy lunch component to add to your rotation? Skip the sandwich. Go for grain free sunbutter and jelly bars. They are sure to be a hit!

Don’t need to pack a lunch? Serve them for breakfast. Kids love them any time of day.

Grain Free Sunbutter and Jelly Bars | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Grain Free Sunbutter and Jelly Bars
Serves 12
A nut free bar that is easy to pack and takes the place of a sandwich.
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Bar
  1. 1/2 cup sunbutter
  2. 1/2 cup tapioca flour
  3. 2 eggs (or flax or gelatin eggs)
  4. 1/4 cup honey
  5. 1/4 cane sugar
  6. 1/2 tsp. unrefined sea salt
  7. 1/4 tsp. baking soda
Filling
  1. 1 cup fruit (strawberry, blueberry, cherry, raspberry), thawed and drained if using frozen
  2. 1 1/2 tsp. grass-fed gelatin
  3. 1 Tbsp. honey
Bar
  1. Heat oven to 350*F. Grease a 7x11 baking pan.
  2. In a large bowl combine all of the bar ingredients. Beat until well mixed.
  3. Spread half of the dough into the greased pan.
  4. Blend the filling ingredients in a blender until pureed. Pour the filling over the dough in the pan. Spread.
  5. Pour the remaining half of the dough on top of the filling.
  6. Bake for 40 minutes.
  7. Allow to cool. Cut into bars.
  8. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or in the freezer for up to one year.
Notes
  1. White rice flour can be substituted for tapioca. It will no longer be grain free.
  2. The eggs can be replaced with ground flax seeds.
  3. You can also assemble the bars by pouring all of the batter into the pan and pouring the filling on top.
  4. Any nut or seed butter will work in place of the sunbutter.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/
This post is linked to Savoring Saturdays.

Crockpot Sprouted Orca Bean and Squash Chili | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Crockpot Sprouted Orca Bean and Squash Chili

Put a new spin on your usual chili by adding Bob’s Red Mill orca beans to create sprouted orca bean and squash chili. Pair it with freshly baked corn bread for a hearty week night dinner.

Crockpot Sprouted Orca Bean and Squash Chili | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

I am partnering with Bob’s Red Mill and Stonyfield for this post. I have been compensated for my time commitment to use these products. However, my opinions are entirely my own and I have not been paid to publish positive comments.

There is nothing quite like a bowl of hot chili on a cool fall day. You can add lots of vegetables, make it extra meaty, spice it up or keep it mild.

I’ve made chili many ways. The possibilities are endless.

Try something new.

But one thing I have never added to my chili is orca beans! In fact I had never heard of them until recently.

Bob’s Red Mill orca beans are so fun. They look like mini orca whales with the black and white exterior. What kid wouldn’t love to have whales swimming around in her chili?!

Crockpot Sprouted Orca Bean and Squash Chili | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

A lot to love about beans.

One of the things about orca beans that stood out to me right away was the nutrition content. They have lots of fiber, protein, folate, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, iron and zinc. Talk about packing a punch!

Just be sure to sprout your beans first to make them easier to digest and to make the vitamins and minerals available. That means thinking ahead to start the beans the day before you make chili. But it only takes about thirty seconds to get them sprouting.

The other unique thing about this chili is the pureed squash. It adds thickness and a hint of sweetness. Combine that with tomatoes, onions, peppers, zucchini, broth and your choice of beef or chicken. Dinner is served!

Crockpot Sprouted Orca Bean and Squash Chili | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Top it. Pair it.

Sprouted orca bean and squash chili can be eaten as is or you can add a variety of toppings. We like to add grated cheese and avocado. Another delicious addition is Stonyfield plain yogurt. It cools down the spice and adds a creaminess to the chili.

Of course you can’t just have a bowl of chili. Sprouted orca bean and squash chili is great served on noodles or rice.

But our favorite way to eat it is paired with cornbread! You can make traditional cornbread. Or if you have corn allergies like we do try my corn free cornbread. You’ll never know the difference.

Crockpot Sprouted Orca Bean and Squash Chili | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Eat it now, eat it later.

Load up the crockpot with a big batch of chili. Serve it for dinner and pack up the leftovers for school lunches. Simply heat it in the morning, and it will stay warm in a thermos. Spread a generous helping of butter on leftover cornbread. It doesn’t get much easier or tastier!

Chili also freezes well. So you can keep some on hand in the freezer for an easy lunch or dinner.

My kids love orca beans. They are great in chili or cooked and eaten plain. Give them a try and see what your kids think. Then add them to sprouted orca bean and squash chili. They won’t be able to pass up killer whales in their soup!

Looking for a new, easy dinner this fall? Crockpot sprouted orca bean and squash chili is perfect any night of the week.

Crockpot Sprouted Orca Bean and Squash Chili | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

 

Crockpot Sprouted Orca Bean and Squash Chili
Serves 6
A new twist on chili with orca beans and squash.
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Ingredients
  1. 1/2 cup Bob's Red Mill orca beans
  2. warm water
  3. 2 cups chicken or beef broth
  4. 1 lb. ground beef or chicken
  5. 1 cup pureed squash
  6. 1 cup diced tomatoes
  7. optional: 1/2 cup diced onion
  8. optional: 1/2 cup green peppers, diced
  9. optional: 1/2 cup zucchini, diced
  10. 2 tsp. unrefined sea salt
  11. 1 tsp. garlic powder
  12. 1/2 tsp. chili powder
  13. 1/4 tsp. cumin
  14. optional toppings: shredded cheese, avocado, Stonyfield plain full fat yogurt
Instructions
  1. The day before making the chili, place the beans in a bowl and fill it with warm water. Let it sit 8 hours. Drain the water. Let the bowl sit in a warm area or in the oven (turned off) with the light on for 8 hours.
  2. When ready to prepare, cook the meat. Add it to the crockpot.
  3. Saute the onion, peppers and zucchini (if using). Add them to the crockpot.
  4. Add the sprouted beans, broth, squash, tomatoes and seasoning.
  5. Cover and cook on HIGH 6-8 hours or on LOW 8-12 hours, until beans are fully cooked.
  6. Add toppings to individual bowls if desired.
Notes
  1. This chili freezes and reheats well.
  2. You can replace the squash with pumpkin.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/

This post is linked to Savoring Saturdays.

Creamy Sprouted Red Lentil and Sausage Stew | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Creamy Sprouted Red Lentil and Sausage Stew

Start the school year with nutrient dense creamy sprouted red lentil and sausage stew. It is full of broth, vegetables and protein for a great lunch or dinner.

Creamy Sprouted Red Lentil and Sausage Stew | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

I am partnering with Bob’s Red Mill and Stonyfield for this post. I have been compensated for my time commitment to use these products. However, my opinions are entirely my own and I have not been paid to publish positive comments.

Ready or not, summer is over. The holiday has come and gone. It is back to school time for everyone.

It is also time for the weather to turn cooler and the days to be shorter.

After hot summer days it is time to return to a warm bowl of soup, freshly baked bread and hot apple cider.

Creamy Sprouted Red Lentil and Sausage Stew | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Soup is the perfect fall food. It is comforting and warm. But it will also help boost your immune system if you include lots of homemade bone broth. Just what you need for warding off illnesses in the fall.

You can go the traditional route with chicken noodle and beef vegetable soup. Or maybe spruce it up a bit with squash or split pea.

But I’ve got a new soup for you that the whole family will love. The really great thing is that it is easy to make and packed with nutrients.

Creamy Sprouted Red Lentil and Sausage Stew | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

It starts with lentils.

Sprouted red lentil and sausage stew starts with Bob’s Red Mill red lentils. They contain lots of fiber, protein and iron. It is important to sprout them first for easier digestion and absorption of nutrients. It will also allow them to cook very quickly.

If you’ve never sprouted lentils it is so easy. Just put warm water over them. That’s pretty much all there is to it.

Now add bone broth, sausage and vegetables to these colorful lentils and you’ve got an amazing soup that comes together in no time.

Looking to add even more nutrition? Toss your favorite greens in during the last few minutes of cooking (I like spinach). Then top it all off with some plain Stonyfield yogurt for creaminess and healthy fat.

Your kids will love it.

Are you worried your kids won’t be willing to try lentils? No need for concern. The lentils cook down and virtually disappear into the soup. It just looks like sausage and vegetables. But the lentils will give the soup a great texture and thickness. They make it really filling.

Creamy Sprouted Red Lentil and Sausage Stew | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Great for lunch or dinner.

You’ll want to make a big batch of sprouted red lentil and sausage stew. Have it for dinner one night. Then pack the leftovers in lunches. Simply warm it on the stove for a  minute in the morning and pack it in a thermos.

This stew also freezes well. So you can make a double batch to eat some now and freeze a meal for another busy week night or easy lunches later on.

Red lentil and sausage stew is filling enough to be your whole meal. But we like some variety. So I serve it with crackers and cheese, bread with jam or a delicious sweet bread like pumpkin, zucchini or winter spice.

Have you ever had red lentils? Are you ready to try some?

Whether you’re new to lentils or they are a staple in your pantry, this creamy sprouted red lentil and sausage stew needs to be on your menu this fall.

Creamy Sprouted Red Lentil and Sausage Stew | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Creamy Sprouted Red Lentil and Sausage Stew
Serves 6
A creamy, rich stew filled with sprouted red lentils and sausage.
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Ingredients
  1. 1/2 cup Bob's Red Mill red lentils
  2. 3 cups warm water
  3. 3 cups chicken broth
  4. 1/2 lb. ground sausage, cooked and crumbled OR precooked sausage, cut up
  5. 2 large carrots, cut up
  6. 1/2 cup sweet potato, cut up
  7. 1 small onion, cut up
  8. 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
  9. 1 tsp. unrefined sea salt
  10. 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
  11. 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
  12. 1/2 tsp. dried dill weed
  13. 1 cup plain, whole milk Stonyfield yogurt
  14. optional: 2 cups chopped greens (spinach, kale, chard)
Instructions
  1. In a small bowl combine the lentils and warm water. Let sit in a warm place or in the oven with the light on for at least 12 hours. Drain water and return to warm place for another 6 or more hours to sprout.
  2. In a large sauce pan saute the vegetables in olive oil 5 minutes.
  3. Add the broth and seasoning.
  4. Simmer 20 minutes.
  5. Add the sprouted lentils and cooked/cut up sausage.
  6. Simmer another 20 minutes.
  7. Add greens in last 3 minutes if desired.
  8. Top individual bowls with plain yogurt and stir into soup.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/
In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog.

This post is linked to Savoring Saturdays.

Brain Booster Milkshake | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Brain Booster Milkshake

Get the school morning started right with a brain booster milkshake. Full of protein, vitamins and minerals it will keep your kids going all day.

Brain Booster Milkshake - Nutrient-dense drink kids love!

School mornings can be hard. Get breakfast on the table. Feed the baby. Brush everyone’s teeth. Find shoes and backpacks.

You do your best to prepare and have things go smoothly. But even with good planning it is tough to always give your kids the nourishment they need before heading out the door.

Especially if you have a child like mine that eats very slowly and ends up often only managing a few bites of breakfast.

To make sure she starts her day the right way I created my brain booster milkshake.

Brain Booster Milkshake - Nutrient-dense drink kids love!

Are Milkshakes Healthy?

This milkshake is packed with some nutritional powerhouses.

  • raw milk – easy to digest protein, calcium and vitamins
  • raw pastured egg yolks – B vitamins that are critical for brain function and concentration
  • probiotics – for gut health and boosting the immune system
  • grass-fed collagen – easy to digest protein and important amino acids
  • maple syrup – carbohydrates for energy and trace minerals
  • unrefined sea salt – trace minerals

I usually serve the milkshake with something else like a homemade granola bar or even dinner leftovers! But even if she doesn’t take a single bite of her breakfast I know she’s going to be fueled for the morning as long as she drinks her brain booster milkshake.

This is a really good option for kids with oral SPD and chewing problems. A milkshake goes down pretty quickly. It is also easy on the digestive system. The nutrients are very easy to absorb and utilize.

Brain Booster Milkshake - Nutrient-dense drink kids love!

One of the key components is the raw, pastured egg yolk. Have you ever read about them? Though often deemed as unhealthy or bad for your heart the opposite is actually true. And eaten raw (as long as they are pastured) the nutrients are not damaged and are easy to absorb.

Egg yolks are amazing little packages of nutrients, specifically B vitamins that are essential for your child’s brain development and ability to focus. They contain other nutrients such as choline (necessary for methylation), selenium (great for the thyroid) and biotin (helps with blood sugar regulation – perfect for breakfast!).

Milkshake for Breakfast or Lunch

I sometimes put milkshakes in my daughter’s lunch too. She struggles to eat much lunch at school. There just isn’t enough time for her, and she’s busy talking. But she usually comes home with an empty cup!

This is also great for kids going through orthodontic work. The day after adjustments their mouth can be very sore and chewing can be a challenge. A milkshake is always in my daughter’s lunch the day after her expander gets adjusted. I tell her that even if she can’t eat anything she should be sure to drink her brain booster milkshake.

Brain Booster Milkshake - Nutrient-dense drink kids love!

Healthy Chocolate Milkshake

The base milkshake recipe is vanilla. But you can create other flavors too. My kids love when I add a bit of cocoa powder or carob powder for a chocolate shake.

Add some strawberries from your freezer stash for a strawberry shake. Any berry or even cherries will work.

Sometimes we really get creative and add mint extract. It tastes like mint ice cream (my kids’ favorite!).

If you can’t have dairy, coconut milk is a great substitute! Any milk alternative will work.

Serve it in a fun cup with a straw or in a sealed cup to pack in a lunch box.

Whether you serve it for breakfast, lunch or both you’ll know your child is getting essential nutrients with a brain booster milkshake. All they have to know is they get something delicious to drink!

Get your kids excited about breakfast. What flavor do you think they’ll like best?

Brain Booster Milkshake - Nutrient-dense drink kids love!

Brain Booster Milkshake
Serves 1
A delicious shake perfect for breakfast or lunch that will give your kids the nutrients they need to perform their best.
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Ingredients
  1. 1 cup raw milk or coconut milk
  2. 1 - 2 raw pastured egg yolks
  3. 1 Tbsp. grade B maple syrup
  4. 1/4 tsp. unrefined sea salt
  5. 2 tsp. grass-fed collagen
  6. 1/2 capsule preferred probiotics
  7. 1/2 capsule preferred multi-vitamin
  8. optional: 2 tsp. carob powder or cocoa powder OR 1/4 cup berries or cherries
  9. optional: 1/2 tsp. organic vanilla OR 1/4 tsp. organic mint extract
Instructions
  1. Combine all of the ingredients in a blender or a cup with a lid.
  2. Blend or shake until well combined.
  3. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/
In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog.

This post is linked to Savoring Saturdays.

Lemon Elderberry Gummies | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Lemon Elderberry Gummies

Help ward off the back-to-school illnesses with a fun, fruity treat. Lemon elderberry gummies not only taste great, they are good for you!

Lemon Elderberry Gummies | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

For many school is already back in session. For others it is only a week away. Either way there is one thing on every parent’s mind when school starts.

How long until the kids start getting sick?

As kids start spending more time inside and around their friends it is inevitable that germs will spread. There are many natural remedies to help your child’s immune system stay strong and avoid some illness.

One simple remedy is elderberry syrup. It helps ward off viruses and minimizes their severity. My kids love taking it right off the spoon.

Lemon Elderberry Gummies | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Make it fun.

Another great way to add elderberry syrup into your diet is adding it to gummies. Kids don’t even know they are doing something good for themselves by eating these fun, fruity candies.

The lemon adds some vitamin C along with the elderberry for even more immune support.

These gummies are also packed with grass-fed gelatin that is helpful for healing the gut and supporting the whole body. Plus it provides easy-to-digest pure protein.

Great for everyone.

I like to serve lemon elderberry gummies for breakfast and snacks or pack them in lunches for my oldest. They are great to have around for the younger kids as well. Even toddlers love to munch on gummies!

No need to buy fruit snacks. Most of them are filled with artificial flavors and colors.

Even if you buy the ogranic/natural varieties they still contain “natural flavor” which is actually almost the same thing as artificial flavor. And for kids like mine it has the same effect on their mental clarity and behavior.

Lemon Elderberry Gummies | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Fast food.

Although homemade gummies may sound like a daunting snack to make it is actually very simple. Lemon elderberry gummies go from the pan to the fridge in about five minutes.

Simply mix the ingredients, heat and pour. That’s all there is to it.

You can get the kids involved with this project by letting them pick the shapes. See what candy molds your grocery store carries or buy some online. I like to use silicon molds so I don’t have to worry about putting hot liquid in plastic. Plus gummies are much easier to remove from the silicon molds.

If you don’t have any molds you can simply pour the warm liquid into a glass pan. When the lemon elderberry gummies are gelled you can cut them into squares or any shape you like.

No lemon juice on hand? You can use blueberry, cherry or lime juice instead. Try all four varieties and see what your kids like best.

Are you looking for easy, healthy snacks for school lunches? Are you looking for easy ways to help keep your kids healthy?

Lemon elderberry gummies are just what you’re looking for! Fruity, fun and healthy. Whip up a batch to start the school year right.

Lemon Elderberry Gummies | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Lemon Elderberry Gummies
Yields 25
A fun, fruity treat to help ward off colds.
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Ingredients
  1. 1 cup organic lemon juice
  2. 2 Tbsp. elderberry syrup
  3. 1/2 cup honey
  4. 4 Tbsp. grass-fed gelatin (NOT collagen)
  5. 1/4 tsp. unrefined sea salt
Instructions
  1. In a small saucepan combine the lemon juice, elderberry syrup, honey and salt. Whisk to combine.
  2. Add the gelatin and whisk to combine.
  3. Let sit one minute.
  4. Heat over low-medium heat, stirring frequently, until mixture is warm and has become liquid again.
  5. Pour mixture into molds or a glass pan (smaller pan for thicker gummies, larger pan for thinner).
  6. Refrigerate until firm, about thirty minutes.
  7. Remove from molds or cut into shapes.
  8. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/

In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog.

This post is linked to Savoring Saturdays.

Nectarine Squash Pops | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Nectarine Squash Pops: Sugar Free First Birthday Popsicles!!

When your summer baby turns one you need a safe, sugar free treat. Nectarine squash pops are the perfect solution! Two ingredients, lots of flavor and no allergens.

Nectarine Squash Pops | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

First birthdays definitely require a celebration.

You made it! You made it through the first year.

The first year of sleepless nights, crying and dirty diapers.

The first year full of firsts! Smiles, coos, laughs, rolling, crawling and maybe even walking. First foods, first teeth, first words.

Nectarine Squash Pops | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Let them eat cake.

A birthday celebration requires a special birthday treat. Usually that means cake.

I LOVE decorating cakes. I look forward to our family birthdays each year because I get to create new cakes.

I’ve done Dora, monkeys, dinosaurs, cars, arts and crafts, Legos, cows, Frozen, bulldozers, April showers and princesses for my kids. I’ve even done airplanes, sports and Cat in the Hat for my nephew, basketball and Calvin Knights for my dad, a fall cake for other family members and a neat recital cake for my sister-in-law.

I wanted to continue that tradition with my third child. With the challenges we’ve faced over the last year we are all certainly ready to celebrate.

Of course I set to work experimenting with new recipes that were free of her allergens.

I made a couple batches of cupcakes (that she loved!)…only to find out more foods that bother her.

Nectarine Squash Pops | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Who needs cake?

My daughter’s allergies combined with my preference to keep her at least gluten free for now (she’s been grain free up to this point) make birthday cake almost impossible. We can’t use:

  • wheat
  • rye
  • barley
  • oats
  • rice
  • sorghum
  • amaranth
  • buckwheat
  • tapioca
  • potato
  • arrowroot
  • coconut
  • almond
  • nuts
  • quinoa
  • millet
  • beans

Add to that no coconut oil, palm shortening, butter or egg whites and you’re not left with much.

Birthday Pops.

I gave up on the idea of birthday cake and opted to do popsicles! They make a perfect summer treat.

Since these popsicles are for a one year old I made them without any added sweetener. I even added some vegetables to keep them mild and nutritious.

Nectarine squash pops make a birthday dessert you can really feel good about serving to the whole family.

Nectarine Squash Pops | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Eat in season.

I chose fruit that is in season here in Michigan in late August. Nectarines are so sweet and have such a bright color. They make a great base for a popsicle.

You can use peaches instead if you prefer the flavor.

I ended up making a second batch since we ate the first batch before the birthday! I added some watermelon to the second batch for extra color and sweetness. Watermelon is another late summer fruit that almost everyone enjoys.

Nectarine Squash Pops | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Fun and Fast.

Nectarine squash pops are the easiest birthday dessert you’ll ever make. Puree cooked squash and cut up nectarine with an immersion blender or in a regular blender and pour the puree into the popsicle molds. Done!

They are also easy to serve. Simply take them out of the molds a few minutes before serving to take the chill off. Pass them out and enjoy.

For older kids you can add chunks of fruit like cut up strawberries, whole blueberries or raspberries to the puree before filling the molds. Then you’ll really have a fruity, colorful treat.

You can also add a tablespoon or two of honey for big kids. It really covers up any hint of squash flavor. My oldest is pretty picky about flavors and textures. She said she couldn’t taste the squash at all when I added a bit of honey.

I was very disappointed that I couldn’t make a cake for my baby’s first birthday. But I’m so happy with how these nectarine squash pops turned out! I’m even happier that my daughter likes them…and that they are so healthy and free of allergens.

Do you celebrate any summer birthdays?

Instead of cake try nectarine squash pops. They make summer celebrations delicious and healthy.

Nectarine Squash Pops | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Nectarine Squash Pops
Serves 4
A fruity, sugar free summer birthday treat.
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Ingredients
  1. 3 medium nectarines, peeled and pitted
  2. 3/4 cups cooked butternut squash
  3. optional: 1/2 cup watermelon (seeds removed)
  4. optional: 1 - 2 Tbsp. honey
Instructions
  1. Puree the nectarines and squash (and watermelon and honey) with an immersion blender or in a blender.
  2. Fill popsicle molds and freeze until firm.
Notes
  1. You can replace the nectarines with peaches.
  2. For little ones let the popsicles sit out for a few minutes to soften before serving.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/
In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog.

This post is linked to Savoring Saturdays.

Herb Roasted Vegetables with Creamy Honey Mustard | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Herb Roasted Vegetables with Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing

Herb roasted vegetables with creamy honey mustard dressing put a new spin on salad. They make the perfect side dish all year long.

Herb Roasted Vegetables with Creamy Honey Mustard | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

I am partnering with Wayfair and Stonyfield for this post. I have been compensated for my time commitment to use these products. However, my opinions are entirely my own and I have not been paid to publish positive comments.

I love a fresh salad in the summer. To be honest I could eat a salad for breakfast, lunch and dinner all summer long!

But I do have a family to cook for. And I don’t have any big salad fans.

That means it’s time to put a new spin on salad.

My kids LOVE roasted vegetables. They often eat all of their vegetables first when I roast them.

So when challenged by Stonyfield and Wayfair to create a new summer salad I went with something I knew my kids would enjoy.

Herb roasted vegetables with creamy honey mustard is a hearty summer salad everyone will love.

Herb Roasted Vegetables with Creamy Honey Mustard | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

The vegetables.

Most of the time I roast cauliflower, Brussels sprouts or cabbage. If you think those are vegetables your kids don’t like try them roasted. You might be surprised!

During the summer there are plenty of other fresh vegetables to add to the mix, like zucchini, peppers and beans.

I used a combination of year round staples and fresh summer vegetables to create a colorful blend.

Add lots of extra virgin olive oil, unrefined sea salt and some fresh or dried herbs for a pop of flavor.

Herb Roasted Vegetables with Creamy Honey Mustard | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

The dressing.

What’s a salad without dressing? To top this beautiful blend I put a creamy spin on my favorite honey mustard by adding whole milk Stonyfield yogurt.

The bright yellow dressing really pops against the rainbow of vegetables. And it adds a burst of flavor. Roasted vegetables with creamy honey mustard will be the center of attention at your dinner table.

Creamy honey mustard also makes a great veggie dip.

My kids may not be huge salad fans, but they do love veggies and dip! So another way to eat salad in the summer is to skip the lettuce and go straight for fresh vegetables with creamy honey mustard.

Herb Roasted Vegetables with Creamy Honey Mustard | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

The presentation.

Herb roasted vegetables with creamy honey mustard is a great salad for entertaining. All of the prep work is done in advance so you can visit with your guests.

But you can’t serve a beautiful salad without the proper dishes. That’s where Wayfair comes in.

Have you checked out their assortment of salad bowls and kitchen gadgets? There is so much to choose from!

My favorite color is blue and I like simple. So of course I picked a stunning cobalt blue salad bowl. I love how it is wide and shallow – perfect for presenting a colorful salad. You can see the whole assortment of vegetables.

I have been searching for a salad dressing container for some time now. I usually just use a small mason jar. But for serving to guests that is not so convenient. This cruet is just what I’ve been looking for. (Plus I learned a new word…cruet). These will come in so handy when I serve salads at parties and family gatherings.

Herb Roasted Vegetables with Creamy Honey Mustard | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

My favorite product from Wayfair is this set of condiment cups. They are perfect for dipping veggies in dressing. They are also great for holding after school snacks. They come in four fun colors so each kid can pick what color they like. Did you know that can make vegetables taste better? It can.

Whether you need a fancy salad to serve to guests or you’re just trying to get your kids to eat more veggies, herb roasted vegetables with creamy honey mustard work well.

Let your kids help chop all of the vegetables and make the simple dressing. Then use some fun, festive serveware from Wayfair to brighten up the table.

What is your favorite summer salad? How do you dress it up?

Let Stonyfield and Wayfair spruce up your next salad.

Herb Roasted Vegetables with Creamy Honey Mustard | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Herb Roasted Vegetables with Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing
Serves 6
Bright vegetables seasoned with herbs and drizzled with a creamy honey mustard dressing.
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Vegetables
  1. 10 cups variety of vegetables (cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, carrots, onions, peppers, zucchini, cabbage, beets, parsnips, rutabaga)
  2. 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  3. 2 tsp. unrefined sea salt
  4. 1 tsp. dried basil
  5. 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
  6. 1 tsp. dried dillweed
Dressing
  1. 1/2 cup plain, whole milk yogurt
  2. 1/2 cup honey
  3. 1/4 cup mustard
  4. 1/4 tsp. unrefined sea salt
Vegetables
  1. Cut the vegetables into uniform chunks.
  2. Heat oven to 375*F.
  3. Place vegetables on a parchment lined baking sheet.
  4. Pour olive oil over vegetables and season with salt and herbs.
  5. Toss to coat.
  6. Bake for about 1 hour, until vegetables are tender and browned.
Dressing
  1. Combine all of the ingredients and mix well.
  2. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  3. Serve vegetables warm, drizzled with honey mustard.
Notes
  1. The dressing can be made in advance.
  2. The dressing will last about 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
  3. The dressing can be used as a veggie dip.
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Green Bean and Bacon Casserole | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Green Bean and Bacon Casserole

Green bean and bacon casserole is a real food version of the classic side dish. With nourishing ingredients like bacon, raw milk and fresh beans it is healthy and filling enough to be a main dish.

Green Bean and Bacon Casserole | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Every summer we have a garden with a variety of vegetables. We change up what we grow each year.

But one thing we always have is beans!

I am in the kitchen freezing beans a couple times a week all through July and into August so we can enjoy them all year.

Our favorite way to enjoy beans is cooked fresh. My son always has to have second and sometimes third helpings. He knows what’s good!

Green Bean and Bacon Casserole | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

A new twist on an old favorite.

This year I decided to use some of our abundance to recreate the classic green bean casserole.

The original includes canned beans, canned cream soups and fried “onions” on top. To me that means MSG, thickeners and all sorts of strange ingredients I don’t care to consume.

My homemade green bean and bacon casserole is made with fresh beans, homemade bone broth, raw milk and pastured bacon. It really doesn’t get any better than that!

Green bean and bacon casserole can be served traditionally as a side dish. But my version is so filling that I served it as the main course! Give me a big pile of green bean and bacon casserole and a slice of sourdough bread and I am a happy mama.

The kid seal of approval.

This was the first time eating a green bean casserole for my kids. They couldn’t get enough! My husband thoroughly enjoyed it as well.

Green bean and bacon casserole is great when beans are fresh. It also works with frozen beans. So you can enjoy it year round.

Green Bean and Bacon Casserole | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Make it work for your schedule.

It is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings and holidays. You can even make it for an easy week night meal. Green bean and bacon casserole can be prepared in advance and baked at dinner time.

As a busy mom I love meals like this. I prepare it during the day while the kids are napping or at school. Then when dinner time rolls around and everyone needs my attention I just pop it in the oven.

No time to bake it? No problem. Green bean and bacon casserole is great straight from the pan. Serve it on a bed of rice and you’ve got a complete meal.

If you enjoy the crispy onions on top of green bean casserole simply fry up some onion slices until crispy. Add them to the top after it is done baking.

If you don’t have bacon on hand you can substitute cooked chicken. Then use whatever fat you have on hand in place of the bacon grease (lard, tallow, butter, etc.).

Whether you’ve got fresh summer beans or you’re working through your freezer stash green bean and bacon casserole is sure to please the whole family.

My only regret when making this was that I didn’t have time to take better photos before my kids devoured it!

Did you grow up on green bean casserole? You’ll love this updated, nutrient dense version.

Green Bean and Bacon Casserole | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Green Bean and Bacon Casserole
Serves 6
An updated version of the classic green bean casserole. This one is filled with nourishing ingredients and can be served as a main dish.
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Ingredients
  1. 1 lb. green/yellow beans, snipped, cut
  2. 1 cup chicken broth
  3. 1 cup milk (can be replaced with broth to make it dairy free)
  4. 2 Tbsp. all purpose flour, tapioca flour or cornstarch
  5. 1 tsp. salt
  6. 1/2 tsp. pepper (optional)
  7. 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
  8. 1/2 lb. pastured, nitrite/nitrate free bacon, cooked, crumbled, grease reserved
  9. 2 Tbsp. bacon grease
  10. 1/2 small onion. sliced (optional)
Instructions
  1. Cook the beans in water until tender, 30 - 40 minutes. Drain.
  2. Heat the bacon grease in a large skillet.
  3. Stir in all purpose flour OR mix tapioca or cornstarch with 1/4 cup of the broth and add to grease.
  4. Cook 1 minute.
  5. Slowly stir in the broth and milk.
  6. Season and simmer until it thickens.
  7. Add the cooked beans and simmer on low 5 minutes.
  8. Add the bacon.
  9. Transfer to a 1 1/2 qt. casserole dish.
  10. Bake at 350*F for 20 minutes.
  11. Cook onion slices in bacon grease until crispy.
  12. Top casserole with onion slices when serving.
Notes
  1. This can be served straight from the pan without baking.
  2. This can be prepared in advance and baked when ready to eat.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/
In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog.

Homemade lunch meat makes packing healthy lunch a breeze. Plus it's great for little ones too!

Homemade Lunch Meat

Lunch time just got easier and healthier with homemade lunch meat! It is perfect for school lunches or even for babies. Add it to your to-do list!!

Homemade lunch meat makes packing healthy lunch a breeze. Plus it's great for little ones too!

Warning.

You may want to cover your ears.

I’m going to use the dreaded L word – LUNCHES.

There. I said it.

As much as I don’t like to think about it, before we know it we’ll be packing school lunches again.

Homemade lunch meat makes packing healthy lunch a breeze. Plus it's great for little ones too!

You want to send your kids to school with nutritious food. But you also don’t want to make their lunches too different or “weird” (liver pate or sardines anyone?). Not to mention you don’t want to spend an hour making lunch.

Just the other day my seven year old asked why I never put “normal” sandwiches in her lunch like her friends have. She mentioned peanut butter and jelly and ham and cheese.

Need more ideas? Check out Katie’s healthy lunch box e-book!

I don’t send peanut products often because I don’t want to make the school an unsafe place for those with allergies.

The ham and cheese? Well, we just don’t have any lunch meat.

Until now.

Homemade lunch meat makes packing healthy lunch a breeze. Plus it's great for little ones too!

Did you know you can make your own lunch meat?

Homemade lunch meat is so easy to make. It literally takes five minutes of hands on time.

Want to learn how?

Head on over to Kitchen Stewardship where I share my simple homemade lunch meat recipe.

And don’t forget to check out the Healthy Lunch Box ebook!

Homemade lunch meat makes packing healthy lunch a breeze. Plus it's great for little ones too!

In need of a few more ideas for the lunch box? Try some of these:

Sweet potato salmon burgers

Teff and sorghum cherry bars

Gluten free pizza crackers

Strawberry apple salad

Fruit on the bottom  yogurt

Soaked gluten free bread (great for sandwiches with lunch meat!!)

Gluten free crackers

Quinoa bars

Salmon salad

In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog.

Five Minute Peach Jam | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Five Minute Peach Jam

Peach jam in five minutes? Yes! And only three ingredients. Simple, healthy and bursting with flavor. Five minute peach jam is a great way to capture summer in a jar.

Five Minute Peach Jam | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Growing up I ate one thing on my toast – grape jelly. Always.

Now that I’m older and cook for myself and my family I like to have a lot more variety. So I make strawberry jam, cherry jam and raspberry jam.

This year I tried peach jam. Wow! It’s like summer in a jar.

Chop. Mix. Simmer.

For real – that is all there is to it. Cut up fresh peaches, add sweetener and grass-fed gelatin. Simmer about five minutes.

Fresh peach jam awaits.

You can even make peach jam without any sweetener if your peaches are sweet enough. Else a couple tablespoons of sweetener really kicks up the flavor.

Five Minute Peach Jam | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Let the kids help.

This is a great project for getting your kids in the kitchen. Peal and pit the peaches and let your child cut them into small chunks. A dull knife is just fine for chopping peaches.

Then let them measure the sugar and gelatin.

Older kids can help with the cooking as well. If you are making a pureed jam this is a great way to teach older kids how to use an immersion blender.

Five Minute Peach Jam | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Spread it on. Stir it in.

Once the jam has chilled for a few hours it will be gelled enough to serve. Spread it on homemade gluten free bread, sourdough bread or your favorite muffin. My kids couldn’t get enough of this peach jam on freshly baked bread alongside a big bowl of soup.

Another great way to use peach jam is mixed into plain, whole milk yogurt. It makes instant peach yogurt without any thickeners, gums or added flavorings.

Spruce up your oatmeal by stirring in peach jam. Top with some crispy pecans and breakfast is served.

Five Minute Peach Jam | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Stock the freezer.

This recipe is for a small batch to eat fresh. You can easily triple it (or more!) and freeze the jam. Then you can enjoy it all year long.

Peach jam in the middle of winter is a real treat! Not to mention it’s very cost-effective. One jar of homemade jam costs about $1.25 (give or take).

The same amount of quality store-bought peach jam would cost about $5.00.

Grab a few peaches and your kids and mix up a quick batch of five minute peach jam. Then enjoy this allergen free spread all year long to change up your breakfast.

What is your favorite type of jam or jelly? Do you make your own?

Five Minute Peach Jam | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Five Minute Peach Jam
Yields 1
Simple and healthy, five minute peach jam is a great way to capture summer in a jar. Only three ingredients and tons of flavor.
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Ingredients
  1. 1 cup peaches, peeled, pitted, cut into small pieces (juice reserved)
  2. 3/4 tsp. grass-fed gelatin
  3. 1 - 3 Tbsp. organic cane sugar or honey
Instructions
  1. Add peaches and juice to a small saucepan.
  2. Add the gelatin and stir. Let sit 1 minute.
  3. Add the sugar.
  4. Bring to very low simmer and let cook 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
  5. Mash or puree if desired.
  6. Pour into a half pint jar.
  7. Chill until gelled.
  8. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or in the freezer for up to 1 year.
Notes
  1. An easy way to reserve the peach juice is to cut the peach directly over the pan and let the juice drip down while you cut.
  2. You can leave out the sweetener to make this sugar free jam.
  3. This makes one half pint of jam. Multiply the recipe by how many jars you want to make.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/

In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog.