Marion is starting their process to become a “Blue Zone”. This means we have been chosen as a site where we will strive to live longer, better lives by making improvements in schools, grocery stores, restaurants and other areas in the community. This is very exciting for me as I often work with all of … Kale Artichoke Dip
Today, all I could think about is WARMTH. I stuck close to the space heater in my office for even the slightest bit of comfort. These negative temperatures are rough on an outdoors person like myself. When we head to the Rose Bowl on Wednesday (woo!) I will be soaking up the sun as much … (Veggie Loaded) Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A few weeks ago, we had our annual parmesan cheese wheel cracking which is referred to as the “Crack Heard Around the Midwest”. I like to call it one the best days of the year. What chef wouldn’t love having as much fresh parmigiano reggiano cheese as they want? … Hot Artichoke Parmesan Dip
Fall is slowly approaching! Although it doesn’t feel like it outside quite yet, I took it upon myself to get a jump start on testing dishes with fall flavors. Butternut squash is one of my absolute favorite veggies. It’s creamy and buttery texture is so comforting. Paired with kale and sundried tomatoes, this dish is … Barley Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash and Kale
I’m a huge fan of buying local produce. It tastes garden-fresh and with less distance to travel, you are guaranteed a fresher product. This time of year, sweet corn, tomatoes and cucumbers are great vegetables to incorporate into your favorite salads or pasta dishes. Grilled Zucchini and Tomato Salad Serves 4 All you need: Marinade … Local Produce
Leafy greens are a vegetable you know you should be eating but may be a little uneasy to try. Well, I’m here to show you they can be super delicious if prepared correctly. Here are four recipes to try this summer that are satisfying and may actually leave you craving more! Kale: Excellent source of … Leafy Greens
As the weather slowly warms up, it’s the perfect time to plan a outdoor picnic! These two side dish recipes are a perfect compliment to grilled meats and fish. They can stay at room temperature so food safety won’t be a concern if you’re planning an all-day event. … Picnic Salads
I recently found out that April is grilled cheese month so I had to figure out a way to highlight one of my favorite quick meals. Although the traditional grilled cheese with tomato soup is a-maz-ing, here is a recipe that combines the two and makes for a delicious sweet and salty bite. … Grilled Cheese with Tomato Onion Jam
It’s citrus season! There are so many delicious varieties of citrus fruits to choose from, but my favorite are clementines. They’re sweet, juicy and super easy to peel. After visiting a local co-op which had some beautiful fruit and veggies to choose from, I decided to make a clementine vinaigrette and serve it over leafy … Spinach Salad with Clementine Vinaigrette and Homemade Croutons
Since I moved to Iowa, I rarely see people eating vegetarian (the meat is quality, I get it!). Having worked at a vegetarian catering company before taking this job, I still have an appreciation for eating meatless meals now and then. I’m a veggie freak so it’s not too difficult for me to throw a … Vegetarian Favorites!
