How to Eat Chia Seeds for Gut Health: Never Eat Them Dry (+ 6 Easy Recipes That Actually Work)

You know that sluggish, bloated feeling after a meal? It's frustrating and can make you feel like your gut has a mind of its own. If you've been searching for ways to support digestive health, you've probably noticed chia seeds everywhere—from smoothie bowls to wellness blogs. These tiny seeds can work wonders for your gut, but there's one critical rule about how to eat chia seeds: never eat them dry. Why You Should Never Eat Chia Seeds Dry Here's the thing about chia seeds—they're incredibly absorbent. When you sprinkle them dry onto your yogurt or toss them into your mouth as a quick snack, they don't just sit there. These little seeds can absorb up to 10-12 times their weight in water, and if you eat them dry, they'll start absorbing liquid from your digestive tract instead. This can lead to some pretty uncomfortable consequences. When chia seeds absorb water inside your stomach or esophagus, they form a gel-like consistency and can clump together. For some people, this may cause digestive issues like bloating, gas, and cramping. In more serious cases, dry chia seeds can create a blockage in your digestive tract, especially if you're not drinking enough water with them. The good news? This is completely avoidable. By soaking your chia seeds before eating them or adding them to liquids, you're letting them do their absorbing thing outside your body. This way, you get all the benefits without the uncomfortable side effects. Think of it as a simple prep step that makes all the difference for your gut. The Health Benefits of Chia Seeds for Gut Health Now that you know what not to do, let's talk about why chia seeds are worth adding to your routine when prepared correctly. These tiny powerhouses are an excellent source of many nutrients that can support your digestive system in some pretty impressive ways. Here's what makes chia seeds so beneficial for gut health: High fiber content: Just two tablespoons of chia seeds contain nearly 10 grams of fiber, which is about 35% of your daily value. This fiber helps keep things moving through your digestive system and acts as a prebiotic, feeding the good bacteria in your gut. Complete protein: Chia seeds contain all nine essential amino acids your body needs, making them a plant-based protein powerhouse. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids: They're also rich in omega-3s, which may help reduce inflammation throughout your body, including in your gut. Natural gel formation: When you soak chia seeds properly, they form a gel that can help slow digestion in a good way, potentially helping you feel fuller longer and supporting more stable blood sugar levels throughout the day. When your gut bacteria are happy and thriving thanks to all that prebiotic fiber, your entire digestive system tends to function better. 6 Easy and Delicious Recipes for Using Chia Seeds Ready to put your chia seeds to work? Here are six simple ways to safely incorporate them into your daily routine. Each of these recipes ensures your chia seeds are properly hydrated, so you can enjoy all the gut health benefits without any of the risks. Let's explore how to eat chia seeds the right way. 1. The Perfect 5-Minute Chia Pudding This is the ultimate beginner-friendly recipe that you can customize to match your taste preferences. Ingredients: 1/4 cup chia seeds 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based) Sweetener to taste (honey, maple syrup, or stevia) Toppings (fresh fruits, nuts, or granola) Instructions: Mix chia seeds and milk in a bowl. Stir in your preferred sweetener. Let sit for 5 minutes, stirring again to avoid clumping. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight until thickened. Serve with toppings of your choice. 2. Blueberry-Peach Smoothie Adding pre-soaked chia seeds or chia gel to any smoothie instantly boosts the fiber content and creates a thicker, more satisfying texture. This particular blueberry-peach combination only takes 10 minutes to prepare and delivers a delicious fruity flavor packed with antioxidants. The chia seeds blend right in, giving you that creamy consistency without overpowering the taste. If you're looking for even more smoothie ideas to keep your routine interesting, there are plenty of creative combinations to explore. 3. Chia-Sourdough Bread This recipe takes chia seeds in a savory direction and creates a wonderfully soft texture. Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup chia seeds 1 cup sourdough starter 1/2 teaspoon salt Water as needed Instructions: Combine flour, chia seeds, and salt in a bowl. Stir in sourdough starter and add water gradually until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth. Let rise for 2-4 hours until it doubles in size. Preheat oven to 375°F and bake for 25-30 minutes. The chia pudding mixture incorporated into the dough adds moisture and nutritional value—this dough has 104% hydration, creating an incredibly tender loaf. 4. Fresh Dill & Chia Seed Dressing The natural gelling property of chia seeds makes them perfect for salad dressings, acting as a natural emulsifier. Ingredients: 1/4 cup chia seeds 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based) Sweetener to taste (honey or maple syrup) Fresh dill and additional seasonings as desired Instructions: Mix chia seeds and milk in a bowl. Stir in your preferred sweetener. Let sit for 5 minutes, stirring again to avoid clumping. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight until thickened. Add fresh dill and seasonings before serving. You can add it on salads, drizzle it over roasted vegetables, or enjoy it as a luscious and tangy dip with crudités, crackers, or your favorite crispy snacks. 5. Overnight Oats This classic breakfast option just gets better with the addition of chia seeds for extra creaminess and nutrition. Ingredients: 1/2 cup rolled oats 1 tablespoon chia seeds 1 cup almond or dairy milk Toppings (fresh fruits, nuts, or coconut flakes) Instructions: In a jar, combine oats, chia seeds, and milk. Stir well, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, add your favorite toppings and enjoy. The chia seeds create a thicker, creamier texture while you sleep, making this a quick and nutritious breakfast that requires zero morning prep work. 6. No-Bake Energy Bites These little snacks are perfect for when you need a healthy energy boost on the go. Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut or almond) 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup 1/4 cup chia seeds 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional) Instructions: In a bowl, mix all ingredients until well combined. Chill the mixture in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Roll into small balls and store in an airtight container in the fridge. These bites stay fresh for weeks and make grabbing a nutritious snack incredibly easy. Your New Go-To for a Happy Gut The secret to enjoying chia seeds safely comes down to one simple rule: always let them absorb liquid before you eat them. Whether you're making pudding, adding them to smoothies, or baking them into bread, giving these seeds time to hydrate means you'll get all the gut-supporting benefits without any digestive discomfort. Start with a tablespoon or two to see how your body responds, then feel free to experiment with different recipes and flavors. Your gut will thank you for taking this small but important step, and you might just discover your new favorite healthy snack along the way.

https://unsplash.com/photos/person-making-latte-art-nzyzAUsbV0M Coffee lovers view their morning bean brew as nonnegotiable when it comes to starting their day right. There are many ways to enhance the flavor, but if you’re lactose-intolerant, you may feel like you’re missing out. However, great alternatives exist. Try these dairy-free coffee creamer recipes to find new favorites that will perk up your cup of joe and make you look forward to waking up.  Why Homemade Creamer Is a Game-Changer Sure, you can buy dairy-free creamers at the grocery store. However, the options might be limited. Plus, it’s best to avoid the preservatives and excess sugar that are often found in these products. They typically contain thickeners like carrageenan, which can harm gastrointestinal health, as well as titanium dioxide, an additive that can cause immunotoxicity, inflammation and neurotoxicity. This is bad news if you already have a sensitive stomach. Dairy-free coffee creamer recipes can be tailored to your taste. You control the ingredients and level of sweetness, plus you get to experiment with new flavor combinations. You can feel confident that you’ll avoid the stomach cramps, bloating and gas that occur when you’re lactose intolerant. The Building Blocks: Your Guide to a Perfect Creamer Base https://unsplash.com/photos/brown-coffee-beans-on-white-ceramic-mug-beside-stainless-steel-spoon-f5Qpv6wps1Y Before diving into the directions, it’s helpful to understand the ideal ingredients that make for a delicious dairy-free coffee creamer recipe. Here are the top options to keep on hand in your kitchen: Nut-based creamers: These are creamy, rich and full of healthy fats. Cashews can be blended to create that satisfying creaminess you crave, while almonds impart a great deal of flavor. Seed-based creamers: Hemp and sunflower seeds are great options if you also have nut allergies. Hemp seeds contain protein and unsaturated fats, while sunflower seeds are a great source of vitamins E, B1 and B6. Oat-based creamers: Using oat milk as your base is an excellent choice because it’s naturally sweet and creamy. It’s free of saturated fat and cholesterol, making it a healthy choice, and it is also a very budget-friendly option. Coconut-based creamers: Coconut cream is the gold standard for richness and decadent flavor. It provides subtle sweetness and is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easily digested and used by the body for energy. Basic Nondairy Creamer Start your dairy-free coffee creamer recipe journey with this foundational recipe that is quick, easy and versatile. It only has three ingredients, making it an easy favorite you’ll reach for time and again. Place one 13.5-ounce can of coconut milk, 1 cup of oat milk and 3 tablespoons of light brown sugar in a blender. You can also add a teaspoon of pure vanilla extract if you’d like. Blend on high speed for about 10 to 20 seconds. Then, strain the mixture into a lidded container and refrigerate for up to 10 days. Be sure to shake well before using. Maple Almond Nondairy Creamer If you like pancakes or waffles, you’ll love this dairy-free coffee creamer recipe to complement your favorite breakfast. The almond milk and maple syrup impart a subtle sweet flavor that will make your mornings complete. Combine 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and ½ teaspoon of cornstarch in a saucepan. Stir the mixture frequently over medium heat until it reaches a slow boil. Remove from heat and whisk in the vanilla. Refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to five days, shaking before use. Flavored Nondairy Creamer Sometimes you want something unique in your morning brew. Transform a basic Monday into a sunny getaway by adding orange extract, or try something bold like a jolt of mint. This recipe can be personalized to your tastes and can be made differently each time. Place 1 1/4 cups of almond milk, 3 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of your extract of choice and 2 tablespoons of honey in a blender. You may also add ½ teaspoon of xanthan gum to thicken. Mix until well blended and store in the fridge. Experiment with different extracts, such as peppermint, hazelnut or caramel.  Maple Hemp Nondairy Creamer This nut-free dairy-free coffee creamer recipe has an ultrarich, frothy texture. This is due to the healthy fats in the hemp seeds, which create a foam that’s ideal for cappuccinos and lattes. This option is perfect for those with nut, gluten or soy allergies, as well. Place ¾ cup of hulled hemp seeds and 1 ½ cups of water in a blender. Blend for two minutes until smooth and creamy. Strain the mixture through a nut milk bag or a sieve lined with cheesecloth, and then squeeze the pulp to extract all the cream. Pour this back into your blender. Add 1 ½ to 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 3/4 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt and blend until creamy, about one minute. Oat Cream Nondairy Creamer This oat-based dairy-free coffee creamer recipe is ideal if you are looking for a low-budget option with no added oils, which you might find in store-bought versions for emulsification. This is also ideal if you’re watching your weight and are looking for something low in fat that still tastes great. Rinse 1 ½ cups of rolled oats. Add to the blender with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. You can add dates to taste if you’d like a bit of sweetness. Blend for 25 seconds at high speed until smooth, and then pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or nut milk bag into a container and refrigerate. Shake it well before using. Storage Tips and Tricks https://unsplash.com/photos/person-filling-milk-on-glass-LpLGzfo1JjY After you’ve made your nondairy coffee creamer of choice, you’ll want to store it properly to ensure freshness. It should be kept in a sealed, airtight container, such as a Mason jar or a bottle with a tight-fitting lid. This will prevent it from absorbing other odors from your fridge and prevent it from spoiling too quickly. You should use it within the time frame mentioned in your recipe, generally no longer than 10 days.  Be aware that separation is normal when using these natural ingredients, so you’ll need to shake well before use.  Reimagining Your Morning Ritual With Dairy-Free Coffee Creamer Recipes Making your own coffee creamer enables you to control the ingredients, taste and consistency you desire. You can experiment with different bases and flavors until you find your favorite combination. Having something healthy and delicious in your fridge makes it much easier to get out of bed on a chilly morning and face the day with confidence. Rise, shine and make the best brew for you.

If you’ve recently discovered the Ninja Creami, you already know it’s a game-changer for homemade frozen desserts. From rich ice creams to light sorbets, it’s designed to transform simple ingredients into creamy, flavorful treats. Here are some of the best Ninja Creami recipes to transform your sweet treat game. 1. Protein Ice Cream This is the recipe that started it all. Take your favorite protein shake or powder, mix it with milk and freeze it overnight. When you process it in the Ninja Creami, the texture becomes thick and smooth, like real ice cream. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to satisfy a sweet craving without losing track of their fitness goals. Vanilla, chocolate, salted caramel, and cookies and cream are the most popular flavors, but you can experiment with almost any protein powder you like. 2. Strawberry Cheesecake Creami This one tastes like dessert from a cafe, only lighter. Blending cottage cheese or Greek yogurt with strawberries and a hint of maple syrup creates a creamy, tangy base that the Ninja Creami transforms into a rich, frozen cheesecake texture. The strawberries add natural sweetness, while the dairy gives it protein and a smooth consistency. It feels indulgent yet refreshing, and it’s easy to adjust the sweetness to suit your taste. 3. Coffee Creami This is for the people who love their morning coffee and want to keep it going through dessert. Cold brew or espresso mixed with milk and a touch of vanilla turns into a rich, frozen latte once processed. The flavor is deep and satisfying, and the texture comes out silky without feeling heavy. It’s a great mid-afternoon pick-me-up or post-dinner treat if you use decaf. While coffee already makes you alert, adding some protein powder can help you sustain your energy levels and keep you fuller for longer.  4. Chocolate Banana “Nice Cream” Bananas are the secret weapon in this one. When blended and frozen, they create a naturally sweet and creamy base. Add cocoa powder or chocolate protein powder and the Ninja Creami turns it into something that tastes like soft chocolate ice cream. It’s dairy-free, low in added sugar and surprisingly filling. You can even add a spoonful of nut butter to make it richer and more satisfying.  5. Vanilla Chai Protein Dessert If you like warm spices, this one’s a must-try. Combine vanilla protein powder with a bit of chai concentrate or a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg before freezing. Once it’s spun, it has the same cozy flavor as a chai latte but in frozen form. The subtle spice blends perfectly with the creamy texture, and it feels comforting and energizing at the same time.  6. Blueberry Coconut Sorbet This one’s light and refreshing. Blueberries blended with coconut milk and a small amount of honey or agave turn into a smooth, tropical sorbet that’s naturally dairy-free. The Creami brings out the fruit’s vibrant color and locks in the fresh flavor. It’s the kind of Ninja Creami recipe that looks fancy but only takes a few minutes of prep.  7. Peanut Butter Protein Ice Cream If you’re a peanut butter fan, this one’s unbeatable. Mixing milk, a scoop of vanilla or chocolate protein powder, and a spoon of peanut butter makes a rich and creamy base that turns perfectly smooth after freezing. It’s packed with protein and has that sweet-salty balance that makes it hard to stop eating. 8. Matcha Honey Creami Matcha powder adds a subtle earthiness that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of honey and the creaminess of milk or yogurt. The result is smooth and energizing, with a bright green color that’s as pretty as it is tasty. Additionally, matcha is rich in antioxidants and nutrients, including iron and vitamin A, providing a health boost while satisfying your sweet tooth.  9. Oatmeal Cookie Creami This one feels nostalgic. Oat milk, vanilla protein powder and a sprinkle of cinnamon and brown sugar give it that cozy oatmeal cookie flavor. It’s decadent, comforting and the kind of dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl.  10. Mango Lassi Dessert Inspired by the classic Indian drink, this version blends mango chunks, Greek yogurt and a dash of cardamom. Once frozen and processed, it’s sweet, tangy and incredibly smooth. It’s also full of natural vitamins and protein, making it a great option for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Mango is also a great addition to your diet as it boosts your immune system and can ease constipation.  11. Chocolate Mint Creami This one feels like a healthier version of mint chocolate chip ice cream. Mixing chocolate protein powder with a drop of peppermint extract creates that refreshing flavor combo, and the Creami gives it a rich texture. It’s the perfect dessert for mint lovers.  12. Almond Mocha Treat Think of this as a frozen version of a café mocha. Coffee, chocolate protein powder and a splash of almond extract blend into a tasty, energizing dessert that feels indulgent and balanced. It’s ideal for a little afternoon treat. 13. Cinnamon Roll Dessert A cozy, dessert-for-breakfast kind of recipe. Vanilla protein powder mixed with a dash of cinnamon, maple syrup, vanilla essence and a spoonful of Greek yogurt creates a creamy, sweet base. It tastes just like the inside of a cinnamon roll — warm, spiced and buttery.  14. Apple Pie Creami This recipe is perfect for fall and tastes just like apple pie filling, only colder and creamier. Blend unsweetened applesauce with vanilla protein powder, a little cinnamon and nutmeg. The Ninja Creami turns it into a light, spiced ice cream that’s comforting and nostalgic — especially with a sprinkle of crushed graham cracker on top.  How to Customize Your Ninja Creami Recipes A few small tweaks can take your Creami creations to the next level. Here are some ideas and tips to make your frozen desserts even better: Use different milks such as almond, oat, macadamia or coconut for dairy-free versions. Adjust sweetness with honey, agave, maple syrup or sugar-free alternatives. Add fruit purees or extracts for new flavors without extra calories. Layer flavors in the pint before freezing to create natural swirls. Let your base freeze for at least 24 hours for the best texture. After spinning, if the mixture looks crumbly, re-spin with a splash of liquid for creamier results. Add mix-ins like crushed cookies, cereal, nuts, chocolate chips, pretzels, marshmallows or fruit after spinning to keep them crunchy.  Store leftovers in the freezer and re-spin when you’re ready to eat again. It revives the texture perfectly.  The Ultimate Healthy Sweet Treat These Ninja Creami recipes prove that healthy eating doesn’t have to mean boring food. With a little creativity, you can turn simple ingredients into protein-packed ice creams, fruity sorbets or creamy coffee desserts that taste like they came from your favorite cafe. These recipes are so good, you could even have them for breakfast. 

If you love the taste of a sweet apple on a nice autumn morning, you’ll be happy to know that National Apple Day is a fantastic event that coincides with the harvest season. Plus, the B+M team has you covered with some easy recipes that you could whip up to celebrate the momentous occasion. When Is National Apple Day? National Apple Day is on October 21. The holiday was launched in 1990 by the UK organization Common Ground to raise awareness of the Earth’s rich and diverse landscape. It started as a small gathering before it boomed into a staple autumn holiday in Britain and worldwide.  America has a strong affinity for all fall-season foods, from pumpkins to cinnamon. Apples are also right up that alley, making National Apple Day a wonderful day to celebrate.  Benefits of Eating Apples “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” is a famous quote for a reason. These fruits are rich in fiber, which lowers blood sugar levels and boosts digestion. They are also rich in Vitamin C and potassium, which improve heart health and other bodily functions.  Apples can be processed into new ingredients, such as apple cider vinegar (ACV), which carries all the benefits of these fruits and more. There’s anecdotal evidence that drinking one tablespoon of ACV diluted in eight ounces of water may help with acid reflux. However, further scientific research is needed. Apple Recipes to Try Out Celebrate National Apple Day by trying fall and festive recipes incorporating your sweet bushel. You could prepare them with or for your loved ones and chat about anything under the sun.  1. Baked Apples Baked apples are potentially the easiest way to prepare these fruits while maximizing their mouthwatering sweetness. Combine brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg in a bowl. Set it aside afterward. Slice your apples into uniform pieces and add a layer to a greased baking tray. You can leave the skin on or off, depending on your preference. However, remember that apple skin contains 4.4 grams of fiber, and if you’re health-conscious and want to feed your gut bacteria, it’s worth keeping those colorful skins on. Sprinkle on your brown sugar mix and make another layer before baking. Vanilla ice cream with this dish is top tier. 2. Apple Mug Cake A warm apple mug cake would make a delicious afternoon snack. Grate your fruits to make them easy to incorporate with the rest of your ingredients. Add flour, baking powder, melted butter, brown sugar and vanilla extract, and your fruit goes straight into a microwave-safe mug. Some people like to add a little lemon juice to complement the sweetness of the apple, but it’s optional. While it’s cooking, you could prepare a cold strawberry apple juice to go with it. Blend both fruits with water and enjoy your little concoctions.  3. Apple Crumble Apple crumble is one of those recipes that just gets you excited about these colder seasons. It starts by cooking diced apples on the stove with a little water to make them tender. Then, sprinkle a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg and brown sugar. Toss and layer onto a baking sheet. For the topping, mix flour, salt, brown sugar and butter together. It should create a crumbly mixture to place on top of your apples. Bake until the top is golden brown and the inner filling is bubbling and jammy.  4. Spicy Apple Cider Doughnuts Enjoy this warm, spiced treat on fall mornings or even at night by the fire. Pour apple cider into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until about half a cup remains. Cool it completely. This is the apple essence that flavors the traditional doughnuts.  Mix your dry ingredients like flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, mix eggs and sugar until smooth. Add buttermilk, butter, vanilla and the cooled cider. Mix both bowls to make the dough and fry until golden brown. Coat with a sugar and cinnamon mix, serving while still warm.  If you’re health-conscious, increase the cinnamon, which is loaded with cinnamaldehyde, giving the spice its antibiotic, antiseptic and antifungal properties. You can also bake the doughnuts if you prefer to avoid fried food. 5. Apple Pie Making apple pie is one of the best ways to enjoy that fruity yet cozy aroma. Slice your fruits thinly and coat them with brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg. Set this aside while coating your pie pan with a pre-made crust. If you want to make the pie dough from scratch, you only need flour and cold butter. Massage the ingredients until crumbly and add ice water to smoothen it out. Chill before using. Add a layer of rolled-out dough onto the greased pan and add your apple filling. For the top crust, cut up strips and layer them into a checkered pattern. You can also get creative by making more intricate shapes like a leaf to represent the season.  6. Cinnamon Apple Smoothie Bowl Another easy recipe to whip up is the cinnamon apple blast. For the base, combine apple sauce with yogurt and one mashed frozen banana. You can also add almond milk and vanilla for both texture and taste. Top with flax seeds, granola, sliced apples and your favorite fruits with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon.  7. Waldorf Salad Waldorf salad is an American classic for National Apple Day. To make it, cut up celery, red grapes, apples and lettuce. Toss them in a bowl before adding crispy walnuts.  Many people debate whether to use yogurt or mayo for dressing, and it simply comes down to personal preference. Whisk the cream with lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle it over the salad and toss it again before eating.  8. Caramel Apples If you’ve never eaten caramel apples before, now’s the best day to try it. You can make the sauce with sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, light corn syrup, butter and vanilla extract on a stove. Add sticks to your bushel and dip them one by one into the heated liquid, ensuring you get an even coat. Baby marshmallows, nuts and sprinkles would go well on the sides.  9. Apple Strudel Apple strudel is a gift from the Germans. Make the sweet filling with sliced apples, cinnamon, sugar and raisins. For the dough, you can mix flour, salt, water, oil and lemon juice. Knead until it forms an elastic ball and let it rest. Spread the dough on parchment paper and roll it out until flat. Spread butter and a few breadcrumbs around it before arranging your apple filling on one-half. From there, you can fold the bare part of the dough on top of the fruits.  Tuck the dough close and transfer the lump to a baking sheet. Bake until golden brown. You can add powdered sugar on top and slice up the servings.  Other Ways to Enjoy National Apple Day Not up to making some apple recipes? There are still tons of ways to enjoy National Apple Day, such as: Go on an orchard tour: Visit a nearby apple orchard and learn more about how these fruits are grown. It’s also a great opportunity to just bask in nature while enjoying the novelty of apple picking.  Buy local apple creations: Stock up on fruits from your local farmers to support their cultivation. You can also try different local apple products like ACV, jam, wine and more to celebrate.  Learn a new apple fact: Did you know Granny Smith is a real person? Maria Anne Smith developed the cultivar in 1868 after accidentally propagating the infamous light green apple.  Live Apple-y Ever After National Apple Day is a quaint yet meaningful holiday that celebrates the land and what it provides to humanity. Pick your favorite apple variety and have a blast making a delicious dish. Have an apple-tastic day! FAQ Are Raw Apples Healthier Than Cooked Ones? Raw bushels may have more vitamin C, but cooked apples still provide fiber and antioxidants, especially if you leave the peel on. How Should You Store Apples for Freshness? Keep the bushels in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer in a perforated bag, as the cooler temperatures slow the ripening process.  Can I Freeze Apples? Yes, you can treat raw apples with a little lemon juice to prevent discoloration or cook your apples and freeze them for pie fillings. [Published on 10/21/2024 -- Updated on 10/28/2025]

Are you craving breakfast or an afternoon snack that’s incredibly delicious, easy to make and packed with nutritional benefits? Instead of whipping up your usual egg toasts or pancakes, why not try golden milk overnight oats? It’s a beautiful blend of healthy ingredients that creates a delicious flavor, especially when mixed with rolled oats and your favorite fruits, seeds and nuts. Discover its health benefits and three easy recipes. What Is Golden Milk? Golden milk, turmeric milk or turmeric latte consists of healthy ingredients like milk, ginger, turmeric, nutmeg and cinnamon. It has a bright gold appearance, stemming from the mixture of milk and turmeric. Some people mix other spices and sweeteners to create their desired mixture. At first, it may seem a lot, but it packs a punch in terms of nutrients and benefits. You can drink it as is or mix it with other dishes, such as overnight oats. What Is Golden Milk Good for? This ingredient feels like a warm hug for your body, offering the following benefits: Reduces inflammation: Turmeric contains curcumin, the compound that gives it a striking yellow color. Many studies associate it with lower inflammation levels, resulting in decreased risk of chronic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and heart illnesses. Better brain power: Curcumin can help improve your working memory and mood, offering you that much-needed boost you need to start the day. Fights oxidative stress: Golden milk is a rich source of antioxidants, which can help neutralize free radicals that can harm your cells. Improved gut health: Curcumin and turmeric alone or in combination with other medications can help relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.  Helps lower blood sugar levels: Cinnamon can help lower blood sugar by slowing down the breakdown of carbohydrates. Like other food ingredients, it can come with possible health risks. If you’re buying pre-made golden milk, pay attention to the ingredients list and look for possible ingredients that may trigger an allergic reaction. As long as you don’t have allergies to the ingredients, you can enjoy everything that golden milk has to offer. 3 Golden Milk Overnight Oats Recipes to Try One of the most enjoyable ways to enjoy this natural elixir is to add it to overnight oats. It’s a solid alternative to your milk of choice, giving your meal an extra nutritional boost. Here are four golden milk overnight oats recipes to try out. 1. Easy Golden Milk Overnight Oats This recipe is ideal if this is your first time making overnight oats. It’ll make you realize how easy it is to create such a delicious and nutritious meal that you can enjoy as a breakfast or a snack. It’s rich in healthy fats, fiber, good carbohydrates and protein, making it a great pre-workout meal. Golden milk ingredients: 1 ¼ cups of coconut milk or any nondairy milk ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon ½ teaspoon of turmeric ¼ teaspoon of cardamom ¼ teaspoon of ginger ⅛ teaspoon of black pepper ½ tablespoon of coconut oil Maple syrup, honey or agave syrup to taste Oats and add-in ingredients: ½ cup of steel-cut oats or 3/4 cup of rolled or quick oats Chia seeds Collagen peptides powder Nut butter Blueberries Hemp hearts Protein powder Instructions: In a saucepan over low-medium heat, add milk and spices, then whisk until warm. Add in your preferred sweetener and whisk until it dissolves. Do not let the mixture come into a boil. Remove from the saucepan and cool for 10 minutes. Add oats, chia seeds and other preferred add-ins in a 16-ounce jar. Pour golden milk into a jar and seal with a lid. Give the container a shake and store it in the refrigerator for at least eight hours before eating. Top with fresh fruits like blueberries or add more cinnamon or nut butter. 2. Vegan-Friendly Recipe Looking for a vegan golden milk overnight oats recipe? This is your best bet. The golden milk recipe contains black pepper to help your body absorb turmeric better. Don’t be scared to try this out — just add your favorite vegan ingredients and you won’t notice the pepper taste at all. Ingredients: ½ cup of rolled oats ¼ teaspoon of ground turmeric ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon ⅛ teaspoon ground ginger 1 tablespoon of chia seeds Pinch of salt and black pepper ⅓ cup of unsweetened plain nondairy yogurt 2 teaspoons of maple syrup ½ cup of nondairy milk Instructions: In a medium bowl, mix all dry ingredients together. Stir until everything is combined. Pour nondairy yogurt, maple syrup and milk. Mix well. Add the mixture into a jar and seal with a lid. Put in the refrigerator for at least four hours before serving. Add desired toppings and enjoy. Some topping ideas include fruits and almonds, pecans and walnuts, which are rich sources of healthy fats, proteins and fiber. 3. Elevated Golden Milk Overnight Oats Ready to take your overnight oats to the next level? Try this recipe if you’re tired of the usual, classic recipe. Instead of chia seeds, you’ll need sweet basil seeds, which have twice the amount of nutrients, to upgrade your overnight oats.  Ingredients: 1 cup of rolled oats ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder 1 tablespoon of basil seeds 1 cup of cashew milk or any other plant-based milk ¼ teaspoon of black pepper 1 teaspoon of ginger 1 teaspoon of cardamom 1 teaspoon of Ceylon cinnamon 2 tablespoons of honey 1 whole vanilla bean Almond yogurt Banana Optional: puffed amaranth and pomegranate seeds Instructions: In a medium bowl, add rolled oats, basil seeds, black pepper, cinnamon and honey. Mix before adding milk, vanilla, ginger, turmeric and cardamom. Pour the mixture into a jar, seal with a lid and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, add honey, caramelized bananas, almond yogurt and other preferred toppings. Store in the fridge for up to four days if fresh milk was used. Create Your Golden Milk Overnight Oats Today Embrace the nourishing power of golden milk overnight oats! If you noticed, all recipes only take less than 15 minutes to create, as long as you already have the ingredients ready. These game-changers are sure to wow your family and friends, too. Don’t forget to share the goodness with them!

There are so many ways to start the day, but rice for breakfast might be the best one. It’s easily available and simple, especially when you already have a handy rice cooker at home. Plus, it’s relatively easy to digest and provides plenty of energy due to its carbohydrate content. You can also cook it in many ways.  Which Rice is Best for Breakfast? Whole-grain rice, like brown rice, is an ideal breakfast option. It contains bran and germ to provide a more nutrient-dense meal, leaving you full and nourished throughout the day. However, you can also explore other options like white rice if that’s what’s available to you.  There was also some evidence that brown rice helped reduce body weight, though it did not significantly affect blood sugar control in pre-diabetic or type-2 diabetic people. Further research is necessary to confirm its effectiveness. That said, it’s worth including in your weight loss journey.  Who Even Eats Rice for Breakfast? There are many people who eat rice for breakfast, but it’s typically recognized as a staple in Asian cuisine. In fact, China consumes more rice than any other country, eating 145 million metric tons of it from 2024 to 2025. In terms of lifestyle, athletes and bodybuilders are big fans of white rice. The food group is rich in carbohydrates and fulfills the macronutrient count needed to fulfill extreme training without exhaustion. If you want to work on your physical health, it’s certainly worth looking up.   Best Asian Recipes with Rice There are many Asian breakfast cuisines that love incorporating rice, so you have plenty of options when you want to start having rice for breakfast. Here are the 10 tastiest ones: 1. Bibimbap Bibimbap is a popular dish that people often get when introduced to Korean cuisine. The direct translation is mixed rice with meat and assorted vegetables. Spinach, bean sprouts, mushrooms and carrots are the typical vegetables added into the recipe, but you can explore more additions like seaweed and onions.  2. Oyakadon Japanese chicken and egg rice bowl or oyakodon is another breakfast staple to try out. It has quite a flavorful broth that starts with dashi and soy sauce before incorporating sake and sugar. From there, you can slice and simmer chicken breast or thighs into the mix. Top it onto a bed of freshly cooked rice with an egg.  3. Tapsilog Tapsilog is made of meat, fried rice and egg. Filipino tapa is traditionally beef that’s cured with different spices and dried or smoked, but you can explore other options like corned beef or fish. One of the most unique ingredients in its marinade is calamansi juice, which adds a tanginess and tenderizes the meat. You can substitute with other citrus fruit juices.  4. Roast Eggplant If you want a simple introduction to having rice for breakfast, roasted eggplant is pretty easy to whip up. When grilled, these vegetables are rich in fiber and water while being low in starch. Pair this with a tahini and turmeric sauce that is nutty, earthy, and aromatic all at once. Some also garnish it with fresh cilantro and mint leaves.  5. Khao Pad Krapow Khao Pad Krapow is a popular must-try dish from Thai cuisine. What sets it apart from other dishes is the addition of basil leaves and the extra kick from chilies. Plus, unlike pad kra pao that’s just stir-fried meat and basil, this dish tosses the meat with leftover rice together, making it easier to make in just one pot.  6. Miso Salmon Create a delicious Japanese miso salmon rice bowl to start your morning off right. Marinate the fish first in soy sauce and miso, along with sesame oil and ginger, before frying. Run some cucumbers on a mandolin to get perfectly sliced circles, which will add a crunchy addition to the savory breakfast meal.  7. Tuna Onigiri Want an easy breakfast to take with you on the way out the door? Onigiri is a great travel food because it is handheld. These tuna mayo onigiri, especially, are so enjoyable because they are so simple to make. You can use an onigiri mold to get the iconic triangular shape right, or try your hand at a plastic wrap.  8. Edamame Fried Rice Edamame is a delicious soybean that can add a nice texture to your fried rice. Plus, it can account for 20% of your daily protein intake without a single ounce of meat. For the best results, get some leftover brown rice and add some julienned carrots into the mix. Pair with a protein of your choice, like egg or meat.  9. Congee Chinese congee or rice porridge is versatile— you can top it with sausage, bacon, and other kinds of protein. It mainly utilizes long-grain white rice, but you can use whatever’s available. Either way, it goes into this flavorful broth filled with chicken or vegetable stock. Sliced ginger makes it even more flavorful.  10. Poha Poha is a traditional Indian breakfast that’s absolutely flavorful. The word translates to flattened rice and it can also be topped with just about anything. Some do eat it as is, though, as the onion, spices, herbs, lemon juice and peanuts already give it a distinctive taste. However, you can also do yogurt and vegetable salad on the side.   How to Make Rice Breakfasts Healthier Rice for breakfast can already be quite healthy. However, there are a few key steps that you can take to ensure that it’s even more nutritious and geared for weight loss. Try these out: Portion right: One cup of rice per meal is enough to help you feel full during breakfast time. You can still cook multiple portions so that you have leftovers to experiment with for the next few mornings.  Sprinkle in extras: To lessen the carb count and increase the nutrition, add a variety of grains and other foods to your rice. For instance, you can add quinoa, corn, lentils, and mushrooms along with your seasonings of choice.  Add a healthy side dish: Similar to some of the recipes on this list, you can add a healthy side dish to balance out the rice’s heaviness. Think coleslaw, cucumber salad or slices of avocado.  Enjoy Rice Breakfast Meals Rice for breakfast is an underrated way to kick-start your morning and fill up your stomach. Make sure you try out your favorite recipes and add them to your rotation. Share photos with us on our social media accounts and happy cooking!

It’s easy to become a little self-indulgent with what you eat throughout the week. However, if you’re trying to be conscious of conditions like diabetes, you have to be more intentional with what your diet looks like. These diabetic-friendly meals can help you feel satisfied while keeping your blood sugar levels steady.  1. Vegetable Stir Fry There’s nothing more simple than sauteeing a pan full of colorful vegetables. Pick your favorite vegetables for the stir fry. Peppers and broccoli are often necessary, but you can take a leap by adding some mushrooms. These contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to help manage diabetes.   2. Buffalo Chicken Salad Wraps Buffalo chicken is such a delicious component, but you can make it a diabetic-friendly meal by turning it into a salad wrap. Try to look for low-carb wraps or tortillas for the base. You can also combine it with chopped celery, carrots and lettuce for texture and nutritional value. Opt for low-fat mayonnaise for your sauces.  3. Mango Veggie Spring Rolls These mango veggie spring rolls mainly require a little slicing before you roll them up in rice paper wrap, making them some of the easiest dishes to make. Go the extra mile by making a strawberry dip to accompany these. Berries contain antioxidants, which can reduce high blood sugar and insulin levels.    4. Baked Oatmeal with Pears Baked oatmeal with walnuts is a simple dish you can whip up for morning, noon or night. You can add cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves for a pop of flavor before balancing out your ripened pears. Also, extra tip— some oatmeal brands may use sugar as a preservative, so be sure to look out for the no-added-sugar labels.  5. Salmon with Green Beans Salmon fillets are such versatile pieces of protein. Go simple by baking them on a bed of green beans. For the sauce, you can mix olive oil and soy sauce for a more tangy taste. Others like to add brown sugar to the mix, but you can add minced fresh ginger and use sesame oil over Olive oil for more Asian flavor.  6. Stuffed Bell Peppers  Stuffed bell peppers are a hearty diabetic-friendly meal that is perfect when you love Mexican flavors. To make it a more diabetic-friendly meal, swap traditional rice for black beans instead. Others also choose to use standard tomato sauce over salsa since it’s a little less sweet.   7. Cabbage Steaks au Poivre Tender cabbage steaks have been all the rage lately, and they’re almost as simple to make as regular ones. Find a medium-sized head of this vegetable and slice it into the shape of a steak. For the sauce, try to use vegetable or chicken broth that’s low in sodium to keep things mellow.  8. Baked Pork Chops Another option to stray from your usual sirloin steaks is pork chops! These cuts are already quite lean, so use a marinade and avoid overcooking them to keep them as juicy as possible. You can pair this with a salad of your choice.   9. Beef Stew Beef stew is just such a comfort dish. You can pick lean stewing beef or lamb for the meat to keep your blood sugar in check. Make sure you cut them into the same size as your vegetables to help everything cook at the same time.   10. Shrimp Avocado Salad  If you want a high-protein and refreshing meal, shrimp avocado salad is the way to go. You can steam your shrimp instead of frying to avoid oiliness. For a twist, add slices of red onions to complement the softness of your avocado.  11. Tuna Melt Wrap Short on time? The tuna melt wrap is one of the quicker diabetic-friendly meals. Drain your tuna and mix it with Greek yogurt since it’s less fatty than mayonnaise. Add in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, relish and your preferred spices. Corn, red onion and cheese go well in this dish. 12. Low-Fat Carbonara Carbonara often gets a bad rep, but there are many ways to make it healthier. For example, pick lean-back bacon and low-fat soft cheese when making it. For extra veggies, stir in thawed frozen peas with your egg mixture.  13. Chicken Lettuce Wraps Another light meal option you can go with is chicken lettuce wraps. Some people opt for ground turkey instead of chicken to switch things up while keeping it lean. As for the lettuce, look for Bibb or butter lettuce for larger-sized leaves.  14. Chicken Tzatziki Bowls Create a filling bowl of chicken tzatziki and your favorite vegetables. You can marinate your chicken in Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, shallots and spices. Pair it with ginger tahini with a subtle lemon flavor to balance out your tzatziki sauce.  The Secret to Making Diabetic-Friendly Meals While there are numerous other recipes to make diabetic-friendly meals, it’s important to know the habits and basics to help you further manage your condition. Try out these tips: Portion wisely: As important as it is to add as much variety to your plate as possible, you also have to focus on proper portioning. The larger the portion sizes, the more carbs, fat, sugar and salt you introduce to your diet. Try to focus on just one plate at a time. When you feel full, stop and save the leftovers for next time.   Have a good schedule for eating: It’s best to have a usual eating time that you can stick to when eating, as it gets your body used to processing everything. Schedule breakfast, lunch and dinner time. Keep in mind that people with type 1 diabetes may undergo constant hunger even when they eat regularly, so add room for snacks.  Find alternatives when possible: One technique used in almost all these recipes is finding a diabetic-friendly alternative for more triggering foods. For example, swapping out black beans for rice can lead to a healthier diet. If you want to choose the latter options, remember rule one on portions! Meal Prep Mindfully for Your Condition A personal home menu you enjoy is important for fulfilling and filling meals. Adopt these easy, diabetic-friendly meal options and cook some delicious dishes. Share with us your favorite recipes on our social media!

Have you ever seen a picture of food online and thought about how you’d love to recreate it? Bento box recipes look appetizing and complex due to their vibrant components. However, beginners should never shy away from the challenge. You could also create a magnificent packed lunch with a little practice around the kitchen. What Is a Bento Box? A bento box is a tray of food with a little bit of everything inside. The single-serving meal traditionally includes rice or noodles accompanied by fish or eggs and other ingredients, assembled and ready to be eaten. More modern variations of this packed lunch have entered the spotlight so expect anything from sandwiches to pasta and more. There are different types of bento boxes, often reserved for the more experienced chefs. For example, the “Kyaraben” style mimics characters from anime and cartoons, while “Oekakiben” creates pictures of landscapes and monuments. As a beginner, you can focus more on filling up the tray and making it delicious first. A traditional bento box is a compact and segmented container. Reusable ones are made of wood, metal, and plastic. Tiered lunch boxes also work like magic for multiple sections. You can also use a glass storage container to hold all the components together.  Best Beginner Bento Box Recipes To make bento boxes more beginner-friendly, incorporate mains and sides that you’re already familiar with making. Here are a few recipes to try out for your tray.  1. Breakfast Bento Box Start your breakfast bento box with a cup of cooked rice. You can mix it with veggies and scrambled eggs for extra protein. Place the rice in one section of your tray and add protein. Bacon works just as fine, but marinated chicken can add more flavor. In another, lay down a bed of peas and place sliced hard-boiled eggs and tomatoes on top. You can also pick out other sides, like a salad, to balance out the rest of the meal. 2. Tonkatsu Bento Box For a more traditional bento box, consider making Japanese pork cutlets. Get boneless pork chops and coat them in flour. Dip them in egg and add panko bread crumbs for a crispy and crunch crust when frying. You can create the sauce with soy sauce, ketchup and a few spices. Place cooked rice in one section again and add a little sesame seed on top. You can add extra sides like scrambled eggs or salad to complement the meat. 3. Stir Fried Tofu Bento Box The first component of the stir-fried tofu bento box is sesame soba. You can cook the soba noodles in salted water for about four minutes or until softened. Drain and rinse with cold water before adding sesame seeds and oil, along with a little white pepper. Coat your tofu cubes with flour and garlic powder. Season with black pepper before sauteeing it in a pan until golden brown. After that, warm your veggies, such as broccoli and carrots, and assemble them in the tray. 4. Keto Surprise Bento Box Consider making zucchini noodles for your bento box. You can run the veggie through a spiralizer to create those beautiful strands. For one section, mix it up with pesto sauce and a few cherry tomatoes. In another segment, you can add a few pieces of marinated chicken breasts. Add a cup of nuts and make room for a small cup of fruity yogurt. 5. Healthy Carbonara Bento Box Carbonara is always a great recipe for beginners. Cook the pasta until al dente and saute bacon. For the base, you can whisk eggs, parmesan cheese, and pepper together. Add all the components to the skillet before transferring a serving into the bento box.  As for the sides, you can add a few more extra strips of bacon. Shiitake mushrooms and a salad would also be lovely additions to balance the creaminess of the main dish. 6. Sandwich Bento Box If you’re using a bigger container, consider making ham and cheese sandwiches. You can sprinkle a little Parmesan outside the bread for a crispier and more flavorful crust. Grill until your gruyere, mozzarella or other chosen cheese is fully melted. Fruits and nuts are great additions for variation. To use up your loaf of bread, you can also make mini peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Use a cookie cutter to create fun shapes. 7. Pinwheel Bento Box Spread cheese on a tortilla and top it off with spinach and smoked salmon before rolling it up. You can get around seven pinwheels per tortilla, depending on the size. Just remember to slice it evenly and add it to your bento box, stacking one on the other.  For another section, combine watermelon, cucumber, and feta to create a dynamic salad. On the sides, add a few of your favorite nuts and chocolates. Other Tips for a Great Bento Box Experience Focus on the journey, not the destination. Here are a few extra tips on how to make the bento box-making experience more creative and engaging: Have a list of food: A bento box is relatively customizable, as you can just swap out certain ingredients for others. Write down your favorite grains, proteins, veggies, starches and fruits. You can play a mix-and-match game while meal planning. Use food dividers: A traditional bento box will have built-in segments. Use food dividers on a regular container to just make it yourself. Silicone cups or metal liners can improve the overall presentation. Take advantage of colors: Bento boxes are appealing because of their colors. Make sure you’re using local and fresh ingredients that pop out from the container. If you have a neutral-colored main, add reds and greens through fruits and vegetables. Add a small sweet treat: Savory meals are mouthwatering, but it’s nice to have dessert to cleanse the palette. Make space for a small sweet, like a wrapped candy or homemade truffle. Learn to experiment: Once you get the hang of bento boxes, consider experimenting. You can create little eyes and mouths from seaweed to create faces. You can cut the apples into bunnies or the sausages into an octopus. Share to show you care: A bento box is a single-serving meal. However, you will likely have many ingredients for multiple containers. Give one to someone you love and have a meal together. Prep Your Food Bento box recipes are enjoyable, making breakfast, lunch, and dinner much more fun. You can try new things and pick up a new technique or two. Whether you create these every day or save them for special occasions, they’ll look amazing.

A delicious, home-cooked meal is the best way to celebrate with your loved ones. Whether you’re looking forward to Christmas, hosting a graduation party or welcoming family from out of town, a turkey could feed everyone with enough leftovers for lunch the next day. All you need is a trusted way to make it come out of the oven ready to eat. Try Martha Stewart’s turkey recipe to improve your cooking skills without breaking a sweat. Special Occasions That Are Perfect for Turkey Dinners Although Thanksgiving is the quintessential night to make a turkey, you can roast a bird for all kinds of other occasions. If you have any of these coming up in your future, it could be the perfect opportunity to pair your favorite sides with fresh turkey: Christmas night New Year’s Eve Birthdays Graduations Anniversaries It’s really never a bad time to try out a new turkey recipe. And your grocery store will never run out, given how the meat industry processed 218 million turkeys in 2024 alone. All you have to do is find a recipe people have tried and loved. That’s where Martha Stewart’s never-fail cooking process comes in. Make New Memories With Martha Stewart’s Turkey Recipe Even someone who’s a beginner in the kitchen can make Martha Stewart’s turkey recipe. She simplifies the process, so you don’t need a multi-day preparation process. Just get a defrosted turkey out of your fridge and start cooking. Ingredients One whole, thawed turkey (any bird between 16-24 pounds will work, but 20-21 pounds is best) One 750-ml bottle of pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc 3 sticks (1.5 cups) of unsalted butter 1 extra stick of unsalted butter (½ cup) for rubbing 2 teaspoons black pepper 2 teaspoons salt Your preferred stuffing (optional) 1 cup of dry white or red wine for gravy (optional) Cheesecloth Giblet stock Instructions Remove the plastic wrap or bag from your turkey and place it in a roasting pan with a metal rack inside. Pat down the turkey with paper towels and leave the pan on your kitchen counter for two hours. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) agrees that two hours is the time limit for leaving food unrefrigerated. Any longer and you’ll risk bacteria growing on your turkey. Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit when your turkey has 30 minutes left on the counter. Melt your butter and mix it with white wine in a large bowl. Press the cheesecloth into the mixture and let it soak while you prep your turkey. After the two hours pass, ensure your turkey is breast-side up on your pan’s metal rack. Remove any pop-up timer that came in your turkey. Fold the wings under the turkey and cut the legs open if they arrived tied with twine. Remove any giblets left inside the bird. Fill the body cavity with stuffing so it covers the entire floor. You’ll cook the rest of your stuffing as you prefer and eat only the stuffing that cooks separately. Eating the stuffing inside your turkey could lead to cross-contamination since the stuffing will cook more slowly within your bird. Putting some inside your turkey just helps your bird absorb more flavors. Use new twine to tie the legs back together, but tighter than before. They should overlap like the turkey is sitting with one leg over the other. Fold the neck flap beneath the breasts, if possible. Melt an extra stick of butter just enough in the microwave to make it soft. Spread it by hand over the outside of the turkey to coat it in a thick layer of butter. Remove your cheesecloth and squeeze it lightly. It should remain damp, but not drip heavily. Save the butter and wine mixture in your fridge. Wrap the cheesecloth around the outside of your turkey and tuck the corners underneath the bird. It should cover the breasts and legs. The area tied together with twine will stick out. Bake your turkey for 30 minutes. Generally, it’s safe to estimate your cooking time by multiplying the weight of your turkey by 13-15 minutes per pound. After 30 minutes, use a baster to drench your turkey in more of the butter and wine mixture.  Bring your oven down to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for another 2.5 hours.  Baste every 30 minutes while it cooks. After the 2.5 hours pass, remove the cheesecloth.  Cook for one more hour, basting halfway through the final hour. Check your turkey’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer after the last hour of cooking (or after it’s cooked for a total of four hours). You should insert the thermometer into the breasts, legs and wings. Each should reach at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit before your turkey is ready to eat. You can put it back in the oven for another 30 minutes if needed. If every part of your turkey is 165 degrees Fahrenheit, leave it on your stove and turn your oven off. If you’d like to make homemade gravy, pour the juices from the bottom of your roasting pan into a pot. Give it ten minutes to sit on your stove so the grease rises to the surface. Skim the grease off of the juice mixture and add the extra cup of white or red wine. Scrape any crispy bits off of your pan and add them to the gravy as well. Bring the gravy to a boil and add your giblet stock. Turn the temperature down to just below a boil and let it cook for 10 minutes or until half the liquid is gone. Pour the gravy through a strainer and into a serving bowl. You could also pour it back into the pot and mix a roux in to thicken it as desired. Your turkey will be delicious, but your meal won’t feel complete with turkey alone. Consider serving it with butternut squash mac and cheese or glazed carrots to turn this traditional comfort meal into one that’s packed with vitamins. Supplies You’ll Need to Make This Recipe If you’re going to make Martha Stewart's turkey recipe, you’ll need some supplies. Check out these household staples to have everything you need for turkey dinners all year round. Turkey Roasting Pan With Metal Rack A heavy-duty roasting pan doubles as the cookware you can use to cook gravy after your turkey finishes cooking. Don’t skip out on the metal rack, either. Lifting your turkey off the bottom of the pan allows the heat to reach all sides of the bird, facilitating more thorough cooking in less time. $27 from Amazon Cheesecloth Cheesecloth soaks up all that buttery goodness and keeps it in place while your turkey bakes. If you get a long run of cheesecloth, you can cut it to the exact amount you need to wrap your bird in a single layer and tuck it underneath the legs. $5.45 from Amazon Meat Thermometer The outside of your turkey might look golden brown, but that doesn’t mean the meat cooked all the way through. A waterproof digital thermometer ensures you can check the meat deep within your bird before it’s time to eat. You can also use it to check pork and beef in future meals. $15.99 from Amazon Baster You can use a silicone brush to cover your turkey in butter every 30 minutes, but they drip liquid all over ovens. A baster ensures it carries liquid to your meat without making a mess. This baster even comes with a miniature brush to clean every inch after your meal ends. $21.33 from Amazon Have Fun Trying the World’s Best Turkey Anyone can make Martha Stewart's turkey recipe. If you have all the necessary supplies and a trusty timer, you’ll have dinner ready in four hours. Pair it with sides your guests will love to serve a meal they’ll never forget.

Family parties should always have the best food. It brings people together and makes every moment more magical. If you’re bringing a dish to a get-together in the next few weeks, consider making one of these easy fall recipes. You’ll give the party a seasonal vibe while making something people of all ages can enjoy. 1. Sweet Potato Breakfast Burritos Brunch is the perfect opportunity to make sweet potato breakfast burritos. As long as they contain the famous orange root veggie, black beans, eggs and cheese, you’ll have a classic base ready to go. Personalize each burrito to your loved one’s unique flavor palettes. They’ll get to munch on something delicious and made with love just for them. Sweet potatoes also help regulate blood pressure, so everyone will feel better while your meal supports their long-term health. 2. Homemade Pumpkin Pizza Who can say no to pizza? It’s the ultimate meal to bring to a family get-together. It’s also one of the easiest family fall recipes you can make. Swap tomato sauce and Italian seasonings with pumpkin puree and fall spices. The savory, cheesy slices will have everyone coming back for seconds. You can even make this dish outside to enjoy the autumn breezes while they last. If you let your grill warm to between 350 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit and cook your pizza directly on the grate, you’ll have dinner ready when the crust is bubbling and browned. 3. Maple-Glazed Carrots People often bring dinner recipes to parties, but it’s also nice to have a few side dishes. Combine carrots with the sticky sweetness of maple syrup to make each portion more appealing to younger family members while impressing loved ones of all ages with your slow-roasting skills. 4. Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese You might already be using butternut squash to create creamy dishes, so add it to your next batch of mac and cheese. If you puree softened squash with a bechamel sauce, your little ones might not even notice it’s not your usual recipe. Every bite will taste like autumn without compromising on everyone’s favorite comfort food at your next family dinner. 5. Vegetarian Quinoa Chili If you have a few vegetarians in your family, there are easy fall recipes they’ll love, too. Make some quinoa chili and pair it with sourdough bread for dipping. Farmers harvest quinoa in early fall, so there should be plenty available at farmers markets and local grocery stores. Make this at least 30 minutes before your get-together to bring the biggest hit of the season. 6. Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bread Give everyone some fresh apple cinnamon oatmeal bread to snack on while you play board games. It’s also the perfect breakfast to enjoy before visiting a corn maze, taking a family hike or any other fall activity you’ve been planning since summer’s heat started to fade. 7. Cranberry Chicken Bake You might think cranberries have to wait until Christmas, but they’re a great autumn ingredient, too. Add them to your grocery list before baking easy fall recipes this year. You could merge a cranberry sauce with onion soup mix, water and Russian salad dressing to bake some mouthwatering chicken breasts in your oven before your next party. Pair it with some mashed potatoes or mac and cheese to win the unofficial dinner competition at your family’s next potluck. 8. Cinnamon Roll Waffles Breakfast is often the best time to make family fall recipes. When everyone’s just starting to wake up on a group vacation or the morning after Thanksgiving, they’ll race to the kitchen for your cinnamon roll waffles. There’s something so cozy about enjoying a cinnamon-based pastry while autumn leaves fall outside your window. 9. Baked Ham With Pomegranate Molasses Glaze Merge your family’s favorite baked ham meal with pomegranate to give them something new this fall. It’s exactly what you should make if you want everyone to think you’re a pro in the kitchen. All you have to do is whisk the glaze on your stove, drizzle it over a ham and bake that ham for about two hours while you spend your day prepping for your get-together. When you serve it, your family will think you’ve made a Michelin-star meal because it’s so delicious. 10. Broccoli Cheddar Soup Broccoli is a spring and fall vegetable, so lean into your leafy greens this autumn. You could serve it in homemade bread bowls or with a side salad. The buttery cheese base will capture every child’s attention while the adults in your family revel in the health-boosting benefits of the broccoli. You can even save your leftovers in the freezer because broccoli retains its shape and flavor when frozen. Enjoy Easy Fall Recipes as a Family Browse family fall recipes before your next get-together. You’ll find something everyone will enjoy because it’s easy to merge autumn foods with your favorite meals. Everyone can celebrate good times together before fall fruits and veggies go out of season.