Growing up I remember a handful of foods simmering away in the oven. Typically these dishes were saved for the weekend due to their extended cooking time. Roast, ribs, rotisserie chicken, meatballs. Chicken pot pie was one of those foods that I recall vividly. It torments your nose while it bakes. The buttery crust, gooey center & cozy smells emitting from the kitchen drove me mad! By the time dinner was served I'd been drooling for hours. Now that I have a family of my own, I understand the commitment that plays into meal prep & ample cook time. Both of which I don't often have the luxury of experiencing! With two little kids life gets busy! There isn't two hours to spare for dinner prep. So, I've had to learn how to make my favorite classic meals into a version that fits our needs. Because shouldn't we have Chicken Pot Pie on a Tuesday? Yes! Weeknight meals need to be under 45 minutes, fit our dietary restrictions (gluten free, some dairy free options) & preferably enjoyed by all. I find that making meals "deconstructed" helps encourage kids to try new things. I spoon the chicken & veggies on their plates alongside the puff pastry rounds. The adults eat the Deconstructed Chicken Pot Pie as a soup. If we're in need of a lighter meal we will skip the puff pastry. The soup is delectable on it's own! Give this 30 minute meal a try. You will not be sorry. Let me take your senses to the smell of simmering savory pie in the oven. . . . Save these recipes for later:
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Have you tried baked oatmeal? It's easy trust me. Each week I enjoy making something special for my family. A sweet bite they can enjoy during the week when things get busy. This is typically some sort of banana bread, energy bite, muffin or any other fun recipe I find on Pinterest. I always keep it simple because I'm NOT a baker. Now you know, any baked good I post will be on the easier side. :) Lately, I've been adding baked oatmeal into the mix. Baked oatmeal is an easy thing to prep & serve for breakfast throughout the week. I like to bake it the night before & store in the fridge. In the morning, slices can be reheated quickly or taken on-the-go. Toppings like honey, apple butter, nut butter or maple syrup make it extra tasty! The base of the baked oatmeal makes it easy to switch out the flavors based on the ingredients you have on hand. This version adds a few (shelf-stable) apple ingredients that give it a cozy fall vibe. A few tips for making this recipe: - Purchase "baked apple chips" that have no sugar added: the dried chips soften in the oven & prevent the oatmeal from becoming soggy. - Use unsweetened applesauce: the sweetness from the maple syrup & apple chips really do the trick! - The vanilla protein powder adds a nice subtle flavor (& obviously added protein!). If you prefer to leave out the protein powder add two extra tablespoons of gluten free oats. - Store in the fridge. Eat within 4-5 days! - Serve with some nut butter & maple syrup for an extra tasty morning treat! Your house is going to smell like you baked a lovely apple pie. Yet you only spent 15 minutes mixing up this yummy baked oatmeal. I'd call that a win! Click the link below to download the recipe! Instagram Reel showing this recipe: Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Enjoy :) Other recipes you might like:If you enjoyed this recipe be sure to leave a comment below!
Thanks for stopping in please visit @simpledelishhealthy for more recipe inspiration. Add a new flavor profile to your lunch or dinner routine!Have you seen the viral TikTok trend for salmon rice? It’s amazing. . .I could eat it every day honestly! It’s a delicious combination of leftover salmon & rice. Combined with mayo, sriracha, coconut aminos (or soy sauce) & lots of toppings (think avocado, sesame snacks, green onions..). After making salmon rice a handful of times I started using the “sesame snacks” more frequently to top fried rice or eat with proteins. My kids will devour them on their own!! They’re the perfect amount of salty & crunchy. Very addicting!! One day for lunch, I pulled out some canned tuna & leftover rice, & came up with these delicious little sesame wraps. Going for sushi doesn’t happen often since going gluten free. I like to make my favorites at home, this way I can control the ingredients. The wraps themselves are a bit more involved in the process, but they can still be made quickly! Perfect for leftover rice that’s ready to use. You can find sesame snacks in the international food aisle near soy sauce (in most grocery stores) or look for larger sesame sheets typically used for sushi. Costco & Thrive Market (online) have them as well! When serving this to picky eaters or kids: - separate ingredients on the plate to let them build or consume as they wish - leave out sriracha if they don’t like spice - make with canned salmon if preferred Be sure to pin or print for later!Other high protein recipes:We are all out there trying to be the best version of ourselves each day. It's a (tough) commitment that I've made to myself over the last few years. This mentality doesn't stop when I leave the house! You can maintain a healthy lifestyle while traveling. It's possible there is a balance to it all. Here are 5 tips I use on a consistent basis to keep my mental & physical health in check while on the go.1. Plan a daily walk, even on travel days.![]()
I don't always feel like exercising or have time when on a family vacation. I know that movement is key to keeping my body active & functioning correctly. So, I always plan to walk each day. Nothing crazy fast or strenuous, just 30 minutes. This could mean exploring an outdoor shopping area, nature trail or nearby neighborhood. At the airport, my husband and I like to walk the kids back and forth through the terminals (no sitting down until closer to flight). This is good for all of us! *Tip* - wear your walking shoes on your travel day....saves space in your bag & encourages you to move!
Road trips are a bit different. . . simply plan to explore a bit once you get there (aka walk outdoors or around a shopping area) OR take a walk (or workout) before you get in the car. I always try to fit in a workout the morning of travel if possible, it makes me more relaxed! If I'm feeling extra motivated. . . Lately, I've been packing a fabric "booty band" with me on trips. It's super light and easy to cram into a full bag. I don't always use it but it gives me the option of fitting in a leg/booty sequence if I want to. YouTube is a great source for quick resistance band workouts or simply use bodyweight! The fabric booty bands I love {does NOT slip or smell like rubber lol}: single // set of 3 A more traditional rubber resistance band set: set of 3 2. eat outside as much as possible.
My husband often makes fun of me due to my love for outdoor dining. This might seem like a funny tip but trust me it's a huge benefit for your mental health. Which we all know is key to our overall health. The fresh air, sunshine & outdoor noises always make me feel lighter. They help me enjoy my location in a deeper way. Plus the vibe outdoors feels less rushed vs inside a restaurant. If you have kids, the scenery is built in entertainment! Bonus they learn the important life lesson of how to shield food from bugs!
3. Plan Snacks & Breakfast food.
![]() 4. Hydrate. Hydrate. Hydrate!
Staying hydrated (& fed) are my top concerns when it comes to our wellbeing on vacation. I'm very easy to get along with if these two requirements are met!! If possible I bring a reusable water bottle to use on trips. I will fill it up throughout the trip & carry it everywhere. We purchase large jugs of water once we reach our destination for easy refills. Obviously, there are some instances that a reusable bottle is just not the move....for me the beach is a no-go. Sand everywhere no thank you.
See my favorite reusable bottles for adults & kids linked below! Other hydrating drinks: Sparkling water: any & all yes please Coconut water "Spa water": aka water with fruit, yum I also like to bring Nectar hydration packs for a little something different. These electrolyte packs travel so easy! I like these specifically because they have no added sugar, only slightly sweetened with stevia. The sunset orange reminds me of drinking orange Gatorade as a kid. They make the perfect afternoon fruity drink that hydrates & provides essential minerals! Linked HERE.
- ADULT HYDRATION -
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- KID HYDRATION -
![]() 5. Research healthy restuarants & grocery stores prior to traveling.
Take time to look at your destination on Google Maps before you head out. See what restaurants or food stores are nearby or available at the hotel. READ THE REVIEWS! Check out their Instagram or website. You can learn a lot about restaurants with some quick sleuthing.
My husband and I are gluten free so this is essential when traveling! We have to know what places can accommodate our diet. This goes for choosing healthier dining options as well. I highly recommend looking the menu online before you visit a restaurant. Look through it & pick out what you want to order ahead of time. Not when you're hangry & sitting down. This always helps me make better choices when it comes to food because I have more time to think it over. "Are you ready to order yet?" - The worst feeling when you can't decide!! thanks for stopping in. Catch up with me on Instagram or leave a comment below with your tips!Need a healthy meal that still hits the spot?
My Classic Burger Bowl will be featured in my upcoming cookbook "Simple. Delish. Healthy." It's so simple & perfect for anyone wanting to eat a bit healthier....so I had to share! Customize using your favorite burger patties, toppings & sauce.
I'm playing around with a few versions of the burger bowl to include in the cookbook as well. Be sure to click the button below to watch how you can make it at home!
*affiliate link: use code JENKINS10 for 10% off your order
Check out Pt. 2 of
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Thank you to everyone who followed along on the january eat 6 challenge!
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Let's all strive for home cooked meals this january.
Over the last few months I have naturally been cooking at home for a majority of the week. This has always been a priority but lately it hasn't been such a struggle. For me, this really takes the guesswork out of what to eat....it has to be something in the house!
But honestly, eating out can be a challenge.
Figuring out where to eat.
Parking.
Mask or no mask?
What kind of mood are my kids in today?
Deciding what to eat off the menu.
Asking about food allergies.
Making any modifications to the menu item.
Paying. Tipping. Remembering leftovers. Finding the car.
Is you order online there's a whole other set of complications! You get the gist!
Eating at home also provides me with control over what my family is eating. The ingredients, quality & portions. Feeding my family nutritious meals is really important to me. So, I strive for a majority of the week to make dinner at home. Does that mean we are eating kale salads & scratch-made meals every night? NO.
It looks like this:
- Recipes that take around 30-45 minutes.
- A handful of simple ingredients.
- A variety of fresh, frozen & pantry items.
- Family favorites, new combinations & recipes to try.
But honestly, eating out can be a challenge.
Figuring out where to eat.
Parking.
Mask or no mask?
What kind of mood are my kids in today?
Deciding what to eat off the menu.
Asking about food allergies.
Making any modifications to the menu item.
Paying. Tipping. Remembering leftovers. Finding the car.
Is you order online there's a whole other set of complications! You get the gist!
Eating at home also provides me with control over what my family is eating. The ingredients, quality & portions. Feeding my family nutritious meals is really important to me. So, I strive for a majority of the week to make dinner at home. Does that mean we are eating kale salads & scratch-made meals every night? NO.
It looks like this:
- Recipes that take around 30-45 minutes.
- A handful of simple ingredients.
- A variety of fresh, frozen & pantry items.
- Family favorites, new combinations & recipes to try.
Will you join me in cooking 6 meals at home every week in JAnuary?
This might sound scary but I promise it isn't! As a full-time working mom I know how valuable time is in the evening. I have put together 5 weeks of meals that won't have you pulling your hair out! LOTS of low-carb options, a few plant based meals, express meals & slow cooker recipes. + A few days throughout the month where you can take a break & order out! Adjust as you go: switch recipes around, make substitutions, or sub in your own recipe.
GRAB YOUR FREE DOWNLOAD BELOW - A FULL MONTH OF RECIPES TO KEEP YOUR JANUARY GOALS ON TRACK!
*Click the links below for recipe planner.
January - Eat 6 Challenge (slideshow) or (PDF download)
*You can bookmark the slideshow URL for easy recipe access from your computer, phone or tablet.
* PDF will have active links when downloaded. When printing the PDF use "landscape orientation" for best results.
Need visuals or inspiration? Pinterest Inspiration Board
GRAB YOUR FREE DOWNLOAD BELOW - A FULL MONTH OF RECIPES TO KEEP YOUR JANUARY GOALS ON TRACK!
*Click the links below for recipe planner.
January - Eat 6 Challenge (slideshow) or (PDF download)
*You can bookmark the slideshow URL for easy recipe access from your computer, phone or tablet.
* PDF will have active links when downloaded. When printing the PDF use "landscape orientation" for best results.
Need visuals or inspiration? Pinterest Inspiration Board
Move aside buffalo dip...
My go-to shareable appetizer is almost always some sort of dip. I mean who doesn't enjoy a plethora of dip options at a gathering?! For years I have always brought THIS (lightened up) buffalo dip to any social gathering. As amazing as it is, I feel like there's a new dip in town.
One worth a spot at your next taco night, football party, or potluck. When experimenting with one of Trader Joe's new seasoning blends (Everything but the Elote Seasoning) I came up with this Street Corn Dip. *Info below about where to find/how to make this seasoning.
The perfect balance of creamy & stringy cheese....
Tangy lime flavor yet rich...
Added flavor & texture from fresh spinach & garlic...
Ideal for dipping chips, veggie sticks, or taquitos (!!)...
You can make this delish dip in under 15 minutes to quickly satisfy that snack tooth...that's a thing right? :)
Scroll down for recipe! Be sure to tag me on Instagram (@jenkinshouseonthehill) or send me a message if you try this dip. I love seeing you all recreate my recipes! <3
One worth a spot at your next taco night, football party, or potluck. When experimenting with one of Trader Joe's new seasoning blends (Everything but the Elote Seasoning) I came up with this Street Corn Dip. *Info below about where to find/how to make this seasoning.
The perfect balance of creamy & stringy cheese....
Tangy lime flavor yet rich...
Added flavor & texture from fresh spinach & garlic...
Ideal for dipping chips, veggie sticks, or taquitos (!!)...
You can make this delish dip in under 15 minutes to quickly satisfy that snack tooth...that's a thing right? :)
Scroll down for recipe! Be sure to tag me on Instagram (@jenkinshouseonthehill) or send me a message if you try this dip. I love seeing you all recreate my recipes! <3
Elote Seasoning:
- Info on Everything but the Elote Seasoning that I use from Trader Joes HERE.
- Check your local grocery store spice aisle! They may have a similar version.
- Homemade version HERE.
- Check your local grocery store spice aisle! They may have a similar version.
- Homemade version HERE.
- Similar versions can be found on Amazon
Looking for more appetizers?
*This post contains affiliate links. I will earn a small commission if you shop using one of my links. Thank you for supporting HOTH!
An easy, yet fancy appetizer.

When the weather starts getting cooler we tend to spend more time at home. Less running around in general. For me that means....more time to cook & experiment with food! On the weekends, I like to try out new recipes that I wouldn't have time to make during the week. A dish I recently ate at a restaurant & this blog post had me thinking about a new savory appetizer.
Crostini with ricotta, tomato jam & crispy prosciutto.
It's seemingly "fancy" but the process is very simple. I used store-bought crostini to save time ( Scharr GF Italian Crostini) but you could easily make your own by crisping up some bread. The tomato jam for the crostini bites takes time to cook down. But the ingredients come together very quickly & it requires little intervention. The prosciutto can be crisped up in just a few minutes in the oven. After that, it's time to layer!
Make this for some friends or your partner & watch for that "impressive" look!
How perfect are these appetizer plates for this savory bite?? I'm picturing many desserts, snacks & appetizers served on these classic white plates. These affordable plates have a timeless look that won't go out of style. Plus they're low maintenance: chip & scratch resistant, dishwasher - microwave - oven - freezer safe.
Shop my appetizer plates by clicking the image below!
Crostini with ricotta, tomato jam & crispy prosciutto.
It's seemingly "fancy" but the process is very simple. I used store-bought crostini to save time ( Scharr GF Italian Crostini) but you could easily make your own by crisping up some bread. The tomato jam for the crostini bites takes time to cook down. But the ingredients come together very quickly & it requires little intervention. The prosciutto can be crisped up in just a few minutes in the oven. After that, it's time to layer!
Make this for some friends or your partner & watch for that "impressive" look!
How perfect are these appetizer plates for this savory bite?? I'm picturing many desserts, snacks & appetizers served on these classic white plates. These affordable plates have a timeless look that won't go out of style. Plus they're low maintenance: chip & scratch resistant, dishwasher - microwave - oven - freezer safe.
Shop my appetizer plates by clicking the image below!
Other posts you might like:
Be sure to share this recipe with a friend or save for later!
I'm not big into creating seasonally appropriate meals.
I've been known to eat a caprese salad in winter or devour a bowl of tortilla soup in mid summer. With that being said, I do like to experiment with some seasonal flavors from time to time! I know most (normal) people love to eat with the seasons so I want to honor that!
Here are a few of my favorite recipes that feature basic fall ingredients. No shopping for crazy, hard to find items. Scroll for some quick & easy recipes that you can incorporate into your fall routine. Enjoy!
Here are a few of my favorite recipes that feature basic fall ingredients. No shopping for crazy, hard to find items. Scroll for some quick & easy recipes that you can incorporate into your fall routine. Enjoy!
We made these delightful salted caramel pancakes last weekend on a whim & were so delighted! They were a fun twist on our classic pancake breakfast.
Super simple...
- Mix up King Arthur Gluten Free Pancake Mix according to the box. You could use any mix you like!
- Using 1/4 cup of the batter make individual pancakes. We love to make extra for the next day! Spray the pan with coconut oil when making the pancakes. This give them a yummy flavor & is a better oil to cook with.
- Onto each pancake spread a bit (or a lot!) of salted caramel sauce. I used a small jar I picked up at a gift shop. There are plenty of options at any grocery store or gourmet food shops!
- Top the stack with lots of cinnamon & chopped up gala apples.
& devour.
Super simple...
- Mix up King Arthur Gluten Free Pancake Mix according to the box. You could use any mix you like!
- Using 1/4 cup of the batter make individual pancakes. We love to make extra for the next day! Spray the pan with coconut oil when making the pancakes. This give them a yummy flavor & is a better oil to cook with.
- Onto each pancake spread a bit (or a lot!) of salted caramel sauce. I used a small jar I picked up at a gift shop. There are plenty of options at any grocery store or gourmet food shops!
- Top the stack with lots of cinnamon & chopped up gala apples.
& devour.
a warm & spicy iced drink extra creamy with the addition of pumpkin Roasted Harvest Vegetables: + 4 small sweet potatoes (cut into small chunks) + 1 lb. brussel sprouts (cut in half) + 2 tbsp. avocado oil + 2-3 tbsp. maple syrup + 1 cup toasted pecans + S & P Toss vegetables with half of maple syrup and avocado oil, season with S & P. Bake on 425° for 25 minutes until crispy. Toss vegetables with remaining oil, maple syrup, and pecans. | a super simple meal for those hot fall days sweet, salty, crunchy & tart amp up a boxed chocolate cake mix |
This recipe needs no introduction.
. . . . just in case you need a little encouragement
You might be one of these three people:
1. It's a busy season. You've got _______ after work/school often. You won't be home in time to make dinner. It's either take out or have something already made at home.
2. Your family is picky.... but if a recipe contains pasta & ranch you know you can sell it.
3. You love BLTs & can't think of anything better than a pasta salad version.
If you happen to be one of these people then I've got the perfect recipe for you!
>> All ingredients can be prepped ahead of time & thrown together in a few minutes.
>> The homemade dressing is super easy to make & uses Greek yogurt as the base.
>> The end result can be modified to fit the needs of your eaters. For the kids I leave out the spinach or add just a little.
>> No need to make a side dish! Just grab a bowl
I made my family eat this two nights last week while I perfected the recipe. They loved every minute of it!! No complaints here.
You might be one of these three people:
1. It's a busy season. You've got _______ after work/school often. You won't be home in time to make dinner. It's either take out or have something already made at home.
2. Your family is picky.... but if a recipe contains pasta & ranch you know you can sell it.
3. You love BLTs & can't think of anything better than a pasta salad version.
If you happen to be one of these people then I've got the perfect recipe for you!
>> All ingredients can be prepped ahead of time & thrown together in a few minutes.
>> The homemade dressing is super easy to make & uses Greek yogurt as the base.
>> The end result can be modified to fit the needs of your eaters. For the kids I leave out the spinach or add just a little.
>> No need to make a side dish! Just grab a bowl
I made my family eat this two nights last week while I perfected the recipe. They loved every minute of it!! No complaints here.
*If using gluten free pasta eat sooner rather than later. This type of pasta doesn't hold up as well cold.
Other posts you might like:
Hi I'm Kelsey.
I help busy women embrace cooking at home with my fuss-free family recipes!
I help busy women embrace cooking at home with my fuss-free family recipes!
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