We’re always on the hunt for quick, delicious recipes that make dinner feel a little easier. And this time of year, pasta is almost always the answer. With kids off school, warmer days ahead, and the familiar weeknight scramble to pull something together, simple pasta recipes are a reliable go-to: easy to adapt, endlessly versatile, and always satisfying. So we did the digging and rounded up a collection of truly delicious pasta recipes to shake up the usual dinner routine.
As much as I’ll h
We’re always on the hunt for quick, delicious recipes that make dinner feel a little easier. And this time of year, pasta is almost always the answer. With kids off school, warmer days ahead, and the familiar weeknight scramble to pull something together, simple pasta recipes are a reliable go-to: easy to adapt, endlessly versatile, and always satisfying. So we did the digging and rounded up a collection of truly delicious pasta recipes to shake up the usual dinner routine.
As much as I’ll happily say yes to a bowl of mac and cheese any day of the week, sometimes you want something that feels a little more inspired. The good news: there are so many simple pasta recipes that deliver big flavor without a complicated ingredient list or a long prep time. And when spring and summer produce starts showing up, pasta becomes the perfect canvas. Think bright herbs, sweet peas, zucchini, tomatoes, and all the colorful vegetables that make this season’s cooking feel especially fresh.
10 Pasta Recipes With 10 Ingredients or Less
Below, we’ve rounded up our favorite simple pasta recipes, each made with fewer than 10 ingredients. For the nights when dinner needs to be simple but still feel special, these pastas have you covered.
Burst Tomato Pasta
This pasta is proof that a handful of smart ingredients can turn into something that feels surprisingly special. The mix of cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste creates a sauce that’s bright, jammy, and deeply flavorful—without asking much of you in return.
This is the kind of pasta we crave when the farmer’s market is overflowing and dinner needs to stay simple. With caramelized zucchini, bright lemon, plenty of parmesan, and fresh herbs, it’s equal parts comforting and fresh.
A good lemon pasta always earns a spot in our rotation. This one feels especially worth repeating. It’s creamy, colorful, and full of the kind of bright, layered flavor that keeps dinner from feeling one-note.
Lemony Spring Pasta Salad with Olives, Artichokes, and Bacon
This is the pasta salad we’d bring to any spring gathering (hoping we can take leftovers home). It’s packed with bold, Mediterranean-inspired flavor: briny olives, artichokes, parmesan, and a lemony green dressing that makes the whole thing feel fresh.
When a recipe calls for only a handful of ingredients and one pan, we’re immediately interested. This one delivers all the creamy, bubbling comfort of a pasta bake, with pesto and spinach keeping it bright enough to feel balanced.
This pasta proves that minimal effort can still lead to a major payoff. The miso adds a salty-sweet umami depth that makes the tomato sauce feel unexpectedly rich and memorable.
For anyone who wants to eat more greens without committing to another salad, this pasta is the answer. The blended spinach sauce is vibrant and silky, with just enough lemon and parmesan to make it feel balanced and flavorful.
One Pot Garlicky Mushroom Pasta with Sausage & Arugula
Rather than being overly rich, this recipe keeps things tasting balanced. A small amount of Italian sausage adds plenty of flavor, while mushrooms and greens make it feel hearty, vibrant, and weeknight-friendly all at once.
Spaghetti With Garlicky Shrimp, Asparagus, & Tomatoes
“Garlicky shrimp” is my official favorite word pairing. I often find that when pasta recipes include shrimp, the petite protein-packed shellfish lacks serious flavor. Here, four cloves of garlic do the trick and send a major punch throughout this dish.
This is the ultimate spring pasta dish. Judging by the color alone, you can quickly tell that the flavor is fresh and bright. Camille makes this recipe at least once a week, and everyone on Team CS is right there with her in keeping this in our go-to rotation.
There’s this moment that happens every April when the first truly in-season strawberries show up at the market: I take a bite, and that feeling of spring floods my system. It’s when the pale, flavorless berries that have traveled for a week are replaced by the deep, red, juicy ones that fill the kitchen with the scent of sunshine. That moment is what inspired this strawberry galette—it channels all those feelings and wraps them up into the most gorgeous (and simple) dessert.
I’ve been making
There’s this moment that happens every April when the first truly in-season strawberries show up at the market: I take a bite, and that feeling of spring floods my system. It’s when the pale, flavorless berries that have traveled for a week are replaced by the deep, red, juicy ones that fill the kitchen with the scent of sunshine. That moment is what inspired this strawberry galette—it channels all those feelings and wraps them up into the most gorgeous (and simple) dessert.
I’ve been making some version of this recipe for years, changing up the fruit based on what’s in season (see this pear galette or this insane heirloom tomato & burrata galette). For this one, seize the window of about six weeks when the strawberries are this good and lean into how effortless this preparation is. It’s about 20 minutes of actual effort, then an hour for cooking and cooling.
A Simpler Way to Bake a Pie
Here’s the thing about galettes: they’re all the reward of a homemade pie with none of the intimidation. There’s no perfectly crimped edge, no blind baking, and no anxiety about lattice. You fold the dough over the filling, press it down, and the rustic, imperfect edges are the whole point. You really want to embrace that organic, wabi-sabi vibe here.
This might be divisive, but I use frozen pie crust for this. Because here’s the thing—a good frozen crust (Dufour is my pick if you can find it, or Trader Joe’s all-butter crust in a pinch) is genuinely delicious, and life is short. If you want to make your own, absolutely go for it. But don’t let the idea of making pastry from scratch stop you from making this.
Before the strawberries go on, spread a layer of whipped cream cheese across the center of the dough. It creates a creamy, slightly tangy barrier between the pastry and the fruit—soaking up some of the juice while the galette bakes and transforms into something that’s not quite cheesecake, not quite custard, but completely incredible. If your cream cheese isn’t already at room temp, ten seconds in the microwave gets it there.
The strawberries themselves get tossed with granulated sugar, lemon zest, a little cornstarch (this is what keeps things jammy rather than soupy), and a pinch of salt before being mounded over the cream cheese. Then comes the fold: start folding the dough over the berries, pleating as you go. There’s no wrong way to do this, so relax and have fun with it. Brush the crust with egg wash, press sliced almonds into the dough (toss them with a little extra egg wash first, so they actually stay), and finish with a generous sprinkle of turbinado sugar for crunch. The thyme is optional, but I love it here—something about that herby, floral note with the sweet strawberries feels very spring garden-to-table.
How to Serve This Strawberry Galette
Bake until the crust is golden and the strawberries are bubbling and jammy, about 25 minutes. Some juice will leak out onto the parchment—this is totally normal and actually looks beautiful. Then the hard part: you have to let it cool on a rack for a full hour before you cut into it so the filling can set. Serve it slightly warm or at room temperature, with a dollop of softly whipped cream. I’ve also had it for breakfast the next morning with coffee (highly recommend).
This is spring in dessert form—the kind of recipe that makes you remember why you love cooking in the first place. Simple ingredients, seasonal fruit, and something that looks so beautiful without trying too hard. Scroll on for the recipe, and drop a comment if you make this one!
A rustic strawberry galette with a cream cheese filling and almond-studded crust is spring in dessert form. So simple, and a stunning centerpiece to any gathering.
Ingredients
Units
1 frozen pie crust, defrosted in fridge overnight (or make homemade)
Let the pie crust come to room temperature on the counter for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 400 degrees with the rack in center position.
Combine sliced strawberries with sugar, zest, salt, and cornstarch in a bowl.
On a sheet of parchment, roll out the dough to a 12-inch round, lightly flouring if needed. Transfer the parchment to a baking sheet.
If needed, microwave the cream cheese for 10 seconds to make it spreadable, then spread across the center of the pie crust, leaving a 2-inch border.
Mound the strawberries and their juices in the middle of the dough and leave a 2-inch border. Fold the border over the fruit, pleating as you fold and leaving the center of the galette exposed. Brush the crust with the egg wash.
Toss almonds with a little more egg wash, then press into the crust. Sprinkle with turbinado sugar and thyme (if using).
Bake until the crust is golden and the strawberries are bubbling, about 25 minutes. Don’t worry if some juices leak! Cool on a wire rack for an hour, then serve.
If you haven’t yet subscribed to my Substack, it’s where I get a little more personal—writing from the heart about self-care, motherhood, wellness, and all things in between. My community loved this post there, so I wanted to share an excerpt with you here.
It was 5 pm on a Tuesday. I’d picked up the kids from school, dropped them at golf, powered through a backlog of emails (including a very important response that absolutely had to go out that day), finished a blog post, written an Instagr
If you haven’t yet subscribed to my Substack, it’s where I get a little more personal—writing from the heart about self-care, motherhood, wellness, and all things in between.My community loved this post there, so I wanted to share an excerpt with you here.
It was 5 pm on a Tuesday. I’d picked up the kids from school, dropped them at golf, powered through a backlog of emails (including a very important response that absolutely had to go out that day), finished a blog post, written an Instagram caption, and gone back for golf pickup. The second they got in the car, I heard it:
What’s for dinner?
Here’s what was going through my head in that moment: we’d ordered takeout the night before, so that felt like a cop-out. My suggestion of “breakfast for dinner” was met with a chorus of not again (fair point). And the very last thing I wanted to do was fight traffic to the grocery store and start a meal from scratch.
Honestly, it sometimes feels like too much to think of something to make for dinner night after night after night (anyone else?). And here’s the thing: I actually LOVE cooking, and the kitchen is one of my happiest places. Putting on a playlist, pouring a glass of wine, making something from nothing. It’s where I get so much of my inspiration and joy. So the fact that I was sitting there resenting my children for being hungry felt like a problem worth solving.
But I’ve realized: it’s not really about dinner. It’s about decision fatigue. The invisible mental load of reinventing the wheel every single night—accounting for different moods, different preferences, whatever we do and don’t have in the fridge—on top of an already full day. By 5 pm, my brain is tapped, and sometimes the last thing it can handle is yet another open-ended question.
SO, instead of screaming, figure it out yourselves!! into the void, I did something about it. I built a system. I know, I know, “system” sounds rigid and not fun, so let me be clear: it’s really just a simple framework that does the thinking for you ahead of time, so that by the time dinner rolls around, the decisions are already made. That way, you’re set free to enjoy the creativity of putting a good meal together and enjoying it with your people.
It’s not meal prep or a meal plan. It’s a rhythm—and once you have it, weeknight dinners start to feel less like a daily crisis and more like something you can truly enjoy again.
In this post, I’m pulling back the curtain on:
The dinner recipes that are part of our current lineup
How to shop, plan, and prep for them in a way that’s completely feasible and non-stressful, even when life is busy
The simple filter I use on nights when I literally can’t make another decision
Unlock the full post here for the system I use to take the stress out of weeknight dinners. I’m breaking down the simple structure that helps me plan, shop, and answer “what’s for dinner?” without the nightly scramble.
While Mother’s Day is often centered around the one who brought us into the world, widening our lens reveals just how many mother figures are woven into our lives. It’s a beautiful reminder to celebrate not only those mothering in the traditional sense, but also the women who nurture, support, and help bring something new to life.
Need a last-minute gift? Save yourself some stress and head to one of our favorite spots: Target. For this Target Mother’s Day Gift Guide, we
While Mother’s Day is often centered around the one who brought us into the world, widening our lens reveals just how many mother figures are woven into our lives. It’s a beautiful reminder to celebrate not only those mothering in the traditional sense, but also the women who nurture, support, and help bring something new to life.
Need a last-minute gift? Save yourself some stress and head to one of our favorite spots: Target. For this Target Mother’s Day Gift Guide, we’ve rounded up gift ideas for all the mothers in your life—including new moms, mom friends, and mother figures in your life. A Target run never lets us down, and these gifts are the perfect way to say thank you to the moms in your world.
Entering motherhood is a whirlwind of every raw emotion coupled with the bare necessities of life. It’s both a tender and trying time—so if there’s a new mom in your life, chances are she could use the reminder that she’s worth tending to, too.
Especially if she’s wearing the same outfit for the sixth day in a row, slipping on these will remind any new mom that she hasn’t lost her sense of style.
Something as small as putting on hand cream can make a new mom feel a little more taken care of and at ease. This set comes with four different scents: Light Rose, Ginger, Crisp Citrus, and Peace of Mind.
For when she does leave the house: This dress will feel both flattering and effortless. Simple to dress up or down without feeling too fussy. Cue Mom’s night out.
With a scent so good, she may not even need to light it. But it will still help her nightstand feel less like a pharmacy shelf and more like a centering place.
Mom friends can be lifelines, from easing after-school pick-ups to swapping advice in the group chat. Whether you’re a fellow mom yourself or just have friends who also happen to be moms, now’s the perfect time to say, “I see you, and I’m grateful for you.”
Because of them, you are. These are the role models and truth-tellers who have always been in your corner—who are a little more down the road from you and share valuable wisdom in their wake. Let them know how much you appreciate all the time they’ve invested, and while it’s likely they’d rather have your presence over presents, a thoughtful gift never hurts.
These bags have a cult following for good reason. Tip-proof, waterproof, easy to clean, and customizable—she won’t run out of options for places to bring it.
If you’ve spent the last few years optimizing your protein intake (great!), there’s a chance you’ve overlooked the nutrient that makes it all work better. Enter: fiber. It’s one of the most impactful nutrients for women’s health, but most of us aren’t getting nearly enough. As a nutrition consultant, I can’t tell you how often I see women who are doing so much right. Yet they’re simultaneously dealing with bloating, irregular energy levels, or stubborn hormonal symptoms. And 9 times out of 10,
If you’ve spent the last few years optimizing your protein intake (great!), there’s a chance you’ve overlooked the nutrient that makes it all work better. Enter: fiber. It’s one of the most impactful nutrients for women’s health, but most of us aren’t getting nearly enough. As a nutrition consultant, I can’t tell you how often I see women who are doing so much right. Yet they’re simultaneously dealing with bloating, irregular energy levels, or stubborn hormonal symptoms. And 9 times out of 10, when we look at their fiber intake, there’s a gap. Let’s talk about how much fiber you need (we don’t fibermax around here), and simple ways to pair it with protein for meals that truly sustain you.
Why Fiber Deserves Way More Credit
Although fiber doesn’t get the same spotlight as protein or healthy fats, it subtly influences almost every system in your body. From digestion and blood sugar to hormones and immunity, fiber is foundational. It feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut, helps regulate how quickly glucose enters your bloodstream, supports healthy estrogen metabolism, and keeps your digestive system moving efficiently.
How Much Fiber Do You Need?
Despite how important fiber is, the numbers tell a different story. The recommended daily intake for women is about 25 grams. Most American women are getting roughly 15. That 10-gram gap might not sound like a lot, but it’s enough to affect your energy, your hormones, and how well your body absorbs the nutrients you’re working so hard to eat.
The Benefits of Fiber for Women
Fiber does a lot more than keep you regular (although that matters, too!). Here’s a closer look at why it’s especially important for women.
1. Supports Gut Health From the Inside Out
If you’ve been investing in your gut health—probiotics, fermented foods, bone broth—fiber is the piece that ties it all together. Specifically, soluble fiber acts as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in your gut and helping them thrive. Without it, even the best probiotics won’t have much to work with. A well-fed microbiome means better digestion, less bloating, stronger immunity, and improved nutrient absorption.
2. Helps Balance Your Hormones
This is one of the most underappreciated benefits of fiber for women. Your liver metabolizes excess estrogen and packages it up to be eliminated through your digestive tract. But without adequate fiber, that estrogen can be reabsorbed back into the body instead of exiting. Over time, this can contribute to estrogen dominance—hello, PMS, breast tenderness, heavier periods, and mood swings. Fiber binds to that used-up estrogen in the gut and helps escort it out. For women navigating perimenopause, PCOS, or any kind of hormonal imbalance, fiber is a non-negotiable.
3. Stabilizes Blood Sugar
If you’ve ever eaten what you thought was a balanced meal and still felt a crash two hours later, fiber might be the missing variable. Soluble fiber slows the absorption of glucose into your bloodstream, which means more sustained energy throughout the day. This matters for more than just how you feel after lunch! Chronically unstable blood sugar is linked to increased inflammation, fat storage (especially around the midsection), and heightened cravings. Adding fiber to a meal is one of the simplest ways to smooth out that curve.
4. Keeps You Full
Fiber adds volume and staying power to meals without adding a ton of extra calories. It slows digestion, triggers stretch receptors in the stomach that send satiety signals to the brain, and prolongs the release of fullness hormones. If you find yourself grazing all afternoon or still feeling hungry after eating, it’s worth looking at how much fiber is on your plate—not just how much protein.
5. Reduces Inflammation
Many of the best sources of fiber (berries, leafy greens, oats, flaxseeds, cruciferous veggies, etc.) are also packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. And on a deeper level, fiber feeds gut bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation in the gut lining and beyond. For women dealing with joint pain, skin issues, fatigue, or any chronic inflammatory pattern, fiber-rich foods are a powerful place to start.
Fiber Is Protein’s Best Friend
Here’s where I see the biggest disconnect. So many women are eating enough protein—which is fantastic—but they’re not pairing it with enough fiber. And that pairing is what makes the difference between a meal that holds you over for four hours and one that leaves you reaching for a snack by 2 pm.
Protein and fiber work through different satiety pathways. Protein stimulates hormones like PYY and GLP-1 that tell your brain you’re full. Fiber prolongs the presence of those very same fullness hormones. Together, they create a slow, sustained digestive process that keeps blood sugar steady and energy consistent.
Think of it this way: protein is the anchor of your meal. Fiber is what holds the anchor in place.
High-Fiber MVPs to Keep on Hand
Berries (raspberries are the fiber queen at about 8 grams per cup)
Chia seeds (10 grams per 2 tablespoons)
Lentils (about 15 grams per cooked cup)
Avocados (10 grams per whole avocado)
Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and artichokes
Oats, quinoa, and sweet potatoes
Black beans and chickpeas
Flaxseeds, almonds, and sunflower seeds
Easy Fiber and Protein Meal Pairings
Instead of doing macro math, I like to keep things simple. Build your meals around a strong protein source, then layer in fiber. Here are some of my favorite pairings that come together quickly and taste amazing.
Breakfast
Greek yogurt + chia seeds + raspberries + a drizzle of raw honey
Simple Ways to Eat More Fiber (Without Overhauling Your Diet)
If your fiber intake is on the lower side, start small. Jumping from 15 grams to 35 overnight is a recipe for bloating and discomfort. Instead, try these gentle shifts:
Add, don’t subtract.Sprinkle chia or flaxseeds on your yogurt. Toss a handful of spinach into your smoothie. Stir white beans into soup. These small additions compound quickly.
Swap strategically. Trade white rice for quinoa or brown rice. Choose sourdough over white bread. Use chickpea pasta instead of traditional pasta. Not every meal, but when it makes sense.
Eat your fruits and veggies whole. Juice strips out fiber. When you eat a whole apple versus drinking apple juice, you’re getting all the fiber that slows sugar absorption and feeds your gut. The same goes for blending whole fruits versus juicing them.
Front-load fiber at breakfast. Starting the day with a fiber-rich meal sets the tone for more stable blood sugar and better energy all morning. Overnight (grain-free) oats, a veggie-packed egg scramble, or a smoothie with greens and flaxseed are all easy wins.
Hydrate as you increase. Fiber needs water to do its job. As you eat more of it, make sure you’re drinking enough fluids to keep everything moving smoothly.
The Missing Link in Your Meals
Fiber isn’t the flashiest nutrient on the block. But when it comes to the benefits of fiber for women, the list is long—and it touches everything from gut health and hormones to blood sugar, satiety, and inflammation. If you’ve been focusing hard on protein (which, again, is great!), think of fiber as the missing teammate. The two work better together than either one does alone. Start with one small change this week (an extra serving of veggies with dinner or a sprinkle of ground flax on your yogurt) and let your body feel the difference.
Edie Horstman
Edie is the founder of nutrition coaching business, Wellness with Edie. With her background and expertise, she specializes in women’s health, including fertility, hormone balance, and postpartum wellness.
It’s time to celebrate the ladies who get it done. Mother’s Day is the best because it’s about the women who raised us, the sisters in arms who are raising us now, and of course, you and me. (Tip to avoid unmet expectations: Spend the day doing what your fam thinks you want to do, then take yourself on a solo date the next day to do what you actually want to do. Works every time.)
With so many people to celebrate, I’m always tracking affordable Mother’s Day gifts that still feel thoughtful.
It’s time to celebrate the ladies who get it done. Mother’s Day is the best because it’s about the women who raised us, the sisters in arms who are raising us now, and of course, you and me. (Tip to avoid unmet expectations: Spend the day doing what your fam thinks you want to do, then take yourself on a solo date the next day to do what you actually want to do. Works every time.)
With so many people to celebrate, I’m always tracking affordable Mother’s Day gifts that still feel thoughtful. My Notes app is basically a running list of ideas, constantly updated throughout the year when I spot something someone I love would appreciate. I’ve dropped some of those gold-mine finds here, alongside a few current faves from the mommas on our team.
28 Affordable Mother’s Day Gifts Under $50 for Every Type of Mom
Whether you’re shopping for your mom, your sister, your friend, or yourself (because yes, solo date = solo shopping), you’ll find something here worth gifting. Let’s unpack it—the best affordable Mother’s Day gifts under $50 are here.
For Her Home
Gifting for the home can be tricky—it can easily veer into “here’s something to help you do more chores.” And if there’s one thing moms don’t need, it’s another reminder of everything on their plate (though, to be fair, there are caveats—I freakin’ love the blender I got last year).
The key is choosing pieces she’ll use often and enjoy every time she reaches for them. Think: a handmade mug that feels special in her hands, the cutest citrus squeezer she’ll actually leave on the counter, or a set of bowls destined for nightly ice cream. These are joy gifts: functional, but never just functional.
When it comes to edible gifts, going budget-friendly just means getting a little creative. I love a high-low pairing, for example. A good bottle of white wine with her favorite movie theater candy. Or, try something elevated paired with something equally thoughtful—like Alison Roman’s pasta sauce with bronze-cut pasta in the fancy bag. It’s simple, a little indulgent, and guaranteed to be used (and enjoyed) immediately.
There’s a phase of motherhood when facemasks start collecting dust—little reminders of a time that once was. Instead, I like to give wellness gifts that she can incorporate into her daily routine, so she can enjoy some deep breaths even in the midst of the chaos. A weighted eye mask she can slip on at the end of the day. A bath soak for Sunday nights. A journal that doesn’t require a 5 a.m. wake-up call. These are small ways to build in a moment of pause, even when life feels full.
Our team tests a lot of products, and these are the ones that consistently make the cut. A mix of current favorites and longtime staples, each one earns its place in her routine—easy, effective, and a little bit luxurious.
One of the best affordable Mother’s Day gifts is something that taps into what she loves right now. A puzzle that’s almost too pretty to put away. A book for the aspiring birdwatcher (we all know one). The water bottle that replaces all others. A cookbook for the baker who treats every recipe like an occasion. Because sometimes the best gift is the one that reminds her she’s more than just “mom.”
If you haven’t yet subscribed to my Substack, it’s where I get a little more personal—writing from the heart about self-care, motherhood, wellness, and all things in between. My community loved this post there, so I wanted to share an excerpt with you here.
Something most people don’t know about me is how much I LOVE makeup. Yes, I keep it simple and really natural, but that doesn’t mean I haven’t fully embraced the magic of a skin-perfecting cc cream, plumping lip color, or mascara that mak
If you haven’t yet subscribed to my Substack, it’s where I get a little more personal—writing from the heart about self-care, motherhood, wellness, and all things in between.My community loved this post there, so I wanted to share an excerpt with you here.
Something most people don’t know about me is how much I LOVE makeup. Yes, I keep it simple and really natural, but that doesn’t mean I haven’t fully embraced the magic of a skin-perfecting cc cream, plumping lip color, or mascara that makes my lashes look a mile long.
I worked my way through college at the Clinique counter, and it was there that I saw the transformative power of beauty in action. A woman who’d shyly wandered up would let me show her the blush placement that lifted her cheekbones, or the lipstick that truly suited her skin tone—and she’d walk away feeling like the most beautiful version of herself. That experience permanently shaped how I think about makeup: it should be simple, and it should make you feel like you.
Thanks to the weird world of influencer marketing, I get sent tons of new products to try. When it comes to makeup, I end up keeping maybe 5% of what I receive. I’m highly discerning when it comes to products that really work, and I’d rather have a makeup drawer full of simple, easy products I use daily than one bursting with things I rarely use.
Here’s what I’ve noticed, though: most people’s makeup drawers tell a different story. Too many products, too many steps, and somehow it still takes forever—or gets skipped entirely on the busy days when you actually want to look good.
So today I’m sharing the routine I’ve spent years refining down to its most essential form. Five minutes, start to finish—whether it’s a day full of Zooms or I’m going out at night. I’m also sharing the natural nail rehab routine that has finally gotten my post-gel nails actually growing again.
I’ve never actually written this out step-by-step before, so consider this the closest thing to watching me get ready in my bathroom. Below is the exact routine and the products that make it work.
My Daily Makeup Routine
After doing my skincare (all details here), I prep with this mattifying primer. I should mention that my t-zone gets really shiny throughout the day, which doesn’t do any favors for the appearance of my pores. So I aim to create a more matte look throughout the center of my face, and let the shine and highlights happen on my cheekbones, brow bones—wherever the light naturally hits.
Then I use my fingers to dot this foundation onto my nose, forehead, undereyes, eyelids, and chin, press it into my skin, and then blend out. I always go back to this one thanks to its good amount of coverage and natural finish, plus it looks like your real skin. And it really lasts through the day.
Unlock the full post here for my exact 5-minute makeup routine—the one I’ve refined over the years to feel polished, natural, and actually doable on busy days. I’m sharing every step, the products that make it work, and the nail rehab routine that finally got my post-gel nails growing again.
By the time spring arrives, I’m ready to move on from the heavier meals of winter and into something that feels a little lighter, a little brighter, and a lot more energizing. Enter: spring salad recipes that will actually keep you full and energized,
Because the best salads aren’t just a pile of greens—they’re layered with texture, flavor, and enough substance to carry you through your day. Think crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and protein-forward ingredients that make these feel like real m
By the time spring arrives, I’m ready to move on from the heavier meals of winter and into something that feels a little lighter, a little brighter, and a lot more energizing. Enter: spring salad recipes that will actually keep you full and energized,
Because the best salads aren’t just a pile of greens—they’re layered with texture, flavor, and enough substance to carry you through your day. Think crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and protein-forward ingredients that make these feel like real meals, not an afterthought.
The Case for Spring Salads (That Actually Satisfy)
Below, I’ve rounded up my favorite fresh spring salads—from light, citrusy bowls to hearty, grain-based options—all designed to celebrate the season and leave you feeling your best.
Protein-Packed Spring Salads That Eat Like a Meal
Farmers Market Steak Salad
This salad hits that perfect balance of fresh and deeply satisfying. Juicy, garlicky steak layered over crisp, colorful vegetables and tossed in a sharp shallot vinaigrette. It’s hearty, protein-rich, and exactly what you want when you’re craving something substantial without feeling heavy.
Golden, seared halloumi adds that perfect salty bite against fresh greens and seasonal vegetables. It’s warm-meets-crisp, with enough richness to turn a simple salad into something memorable.
Black Lentil Salad with Roasted Vegetables & Goat Cheese
Earthy lentils meet crisp vegetables and a sharp vinaigrette for a salad that feels grounded but not heavy. It’s packed with plant-based protein and holds up beautifully.
Salty feta, creamy beans, and a punchy lemon relish come together in a way that feels both simple and special. It’s bright, bold, and filling enough to stand on its own.
A little crunchy, a little creamy, and deeply satisfying, this is kale at its best. The white beans add substance, while the dressing softens everything just enough. Trust me, it’s crave-worthy.
This is the kind of pantry-friendly salad that somehow tastes far more elevated than it should. Creamy white beans and olive oil-packed tuna create a satisfying base, while herbs and acid keep everything feeling vibrant and fresh.
Flaky salmon, crisp greens, and a bright, citrusy finish make this one feel equal parts light and grounding. It’s rich in protein and healthy fats, so you get that fresh, springy energy—without the mid-afternoon crash.
Peppery radish, crisp fennel, and juicy grapefruit strike that perfect balance of sharp and refreshing. Each bite wakes up your palate, making this one feel like spring in its purest form.
Shaved zucchini feels delicate but holds its own with a bright, zippy dressing and just the right amount of texture layered in. It’s elegant without trying too hard—perfect for when you want something fresh but a little elevated.
Sweet snap peas bring that unmistakable spring crunch, paired with fresh herbs and a light dressing that lets everything shine. It’s simple, crisp, and exactly what you want on a warm afternoon.
Cool cucumbers and golden, crunchy rice create an endlessly satisfying texture contrast. Tossed in a punchy, flavor-packed dressing, this is the kind of salad you keep going back to for “just one more bite.”
Sweet peas and fresh mint are a natural pairing that never gets old. Light, bright, and just a little nostalgic, this one captures everything we love about spring in a single bowl.
Thinly shaved fennel brings a subtle sweetness and crunch, lifted by citrus and herbs. It’s clean, understated, and the perfect reset alongside richer dishes.
Grilling romaine transforms it completely—adding a subtle smokiness that makes this feel unexpectedly indulgent. Finished with a bright dressing, it’s simple but far from basic.
Chewy farro, sweet tomatoes, and plenty of herbs make for a salad that feels effortless but incredibly well-balanced—equally suited for dinner parties or weekday lunches.
Grapefruit, Avocado, and Golden Beet Salad with Crunchy Chickpeas and Feta
Creamy avocado meets tart grapefruit for a combination that’s both refreshing and satisfying. It’s bright and clean, with just enough richness to keep you coming back for another forkful.
Juicy strawberries and creamy burrata are a pairing that feels almost too easy—until you taste it. With a hit of herbs and acid, it’s sweet, savory, and unmistakably seasonal.
Somehow, my calendar has gone from slow winter evenings to fully booked days—work plans, dinners, workouts, and a to-do list that never really ends. I’m not complaining (it’s all things I love), but it does mean I need dinners that can keep up.
I’ve never been a meal-prep person, but I do rely on a few simple components that I can make ahead and use throughout the week. Enter: these crispy baked black bean tacos. They come together fast, feel satisfying, and hinge on a smashed black bean fil
Somehow, my calendar has gone from slow winter evenings to fully booked days—work plans, dinners, workouts, and a to-do list that never really ends. I’m not complaining (it’s all things I love), but it does mean I need dinners that can keep up.
I’ve never been a meal-prep person, but I do rely on a few simple components that I can make ahead and use throughout the week. Enter: these crispy baked black bean tacos. They come together fast, feel satisfying, and hinge on a smashed black bean filling you can prep in advance and turn into dinner in minutes. (Win. Win. Win.)
Ingredients for Crispy Black Bean Tacos
The beauty of these tacos is that they rely on ingredients you probably already have—or can grab in one quick trip. Nothing complicated, just a handful of pantry staples that alchemize into something far more satisfying than they should be. Work smarter, not harder, folks!
Onion. Adds a subtle sweetness as it cooks down and builds the base of flavor.
Garlic. For depth. Optional, but is garlic ever really optional?
Tomato paste. A small amount goes a long way in adding richness and that savory, slow-cooked flavor.
Chipotle in adobo. Smoky, a little spicy, and what makes these taste like more than just beans.
Taco seasoning. You could pull individual spices, but this is my favorite shortcut.
Salsa. Another shortcut that works. It adds flavor, texture, and saves you from extra chopping.
Black beans. The base of it all. Pinto or kidney beans work too, but black beans hold up best here.
Cheese. Go for something that melts well and has a little sharpness.
Tortillas. I usually reach for flour, but corn works just as well—use what you love.
How to Prepare These Crispy Baked Black Bean Tacos
The best part of this recipe is that the filling can be made days in advance. When you’re ready to eat, all that’s left is assembling and crisping the tacos. The black bean filling is deeply savory and smoky, and honestly works far beyond tacos. Use it for nachos, grain bowls, or anything that needs a little extra substance during the week.
Build Flavor First (It Matters)
This is where the magic happens. Trust me, it’s worth taking a few extra minutes here.
Start with the onions. Cook them until soft and just golden. This adds a subtle sweetness and gives the filling that cooked-all-day flavor.
Cook the tomato paste. Let it deepen to a brick red before moving on. This removes any sharpness and adds richness.
Bloom the spices. Stir them into the aromatics and let them get fragrant. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.
Get the Texture Right
The goal: thick, scoopable, and not watery (so your tacos stay crisp).
Use the bean liquid. Add the beans with their liquid—it keeps everything creamy without needing anything extra.
Mash as you go. Use the back of a spoon to smash the beans in the pan. Cook until the mixture thickens and the excess liquid cooks off.
Assemble + Crisp
Layer strategically. Add cheese to the edges of the tortilla so it crisps directly against the pan.
Don’t skip the second layer of cheese. Once cooked, open the tacos slightly and add a bit more cheese. Let it melt slowly for that perfect finish.
How to Get Them Extra Crispy
Let the pan do the work. Don’t move the tacos around too much. Give them time to sit and develop that golden, crispy edge.
Cheese goes on the edges. Let a little cheese spill out onto the pan—it crisps up and creates that perfect, lacy texture.
Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if you need to. Too many tacos at once = steam, not crisp.
What to Serve with These Crispy Baked Black Bean Tacos
These tacos absolutely hold their own, but if you’re making a night of it, this is where it gets fun. Think: a simple taco bar with a few really good sides.
A quick, satisfying smashed black bean taco built for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Units
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
1/4cup salsa of choice
1 can of black beans
for assembly: tortillas and cheese of choice
Instructions
Build the filling. Heat a drizzle of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion with a pinch of salt and cook until softened and lightly golden, about 5–7 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and tomato paste. Cook until the tomato paste deepens to a brick red. Add the chipotle peppers and taco seasoning, stirring until fragrant.
Pour in the salsa and black beans (including their liquid). Stir to combine and let simmer for a few minutes.
Using the back of a wooden spoon, begin mashing the beans directly in the pan. Continue cooking and mashing until the mixture is thick, cohesive, and most of the liquid has cooked off.
Assemble the tacos. Lay out your tortillas. Sprinkle cheese over one half of each tortilla. Add a spoonful of the black bean mixture, then top with a little more cheese. Fold the tortillas over to create a half-moon shape.
Cook until crispy. Heat a pan with a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the tacos and cook for a few minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy, with melted cheese inside.
Serve. Serve warm with your favorite toppings—guacamole, avocado crema, or salsa all work. Enjoy!
Whenever a gift-giving holiday rolls around, my mom goes one of two routes: the classic “don’t get me anything,” or a list of practical staples she’ll end up buying herself anyway (think: notepads, a fresh tube of mascara—you know the type). Which makes finding 2026 Mother’s Day gifts for her feel like a challenge I’m determined to get right. The truth is, she doesn’t need a gift to feel my love—she gets that in the countless FaceTimes, texts, and love notes that keep us connected between coast
Whenever a gift-giving holiday rolls around, my mom goes one of two routes: the classic “don’t get me anything,” or a list of practical staples she’ll end up buying herself anyway (think: notepads, a fresh tube of mascara—you know the type). Which makes finding 2026 Mother’s Day gifts for her feel like a challenge I’m determined to get right. The truth is, she doesn’t need a gift to feel my love—she gets that in the countless FaceTimes, texts, and love notes that keep us connected between coasts. But that’s exactly why I want to find one that feels worthy of it. (Is my overthinking showing?)
I’m not a mom myself, but Mother’s Day still feels personal. It’s about the women in my life who show up, care deeply, and somehow make it all look effortless: my sister, who doesn’t just run marathons but wins them; a dear friend who hosts with the kind of ease I’m still trying to master; and my own mom, who deserves something far more thoughtful than anything she’d ever ask for.
The best gifts are the ones she wouldn’t splurge on herself—but once she has them, they elevate her everyday. Ahead, I’ve rounded up the gifts I’m actually giving this year. My style of Mother’s Day gifting is focused on thoughtful, beautiful finds for every kind of mom in your life.
This is where things get interesting. The best gifts here are the ones she wouldn’t buy for herself, but once she has them, she can’t imagine living without them.
This is what you get her instead of telling her to “take some time for herself.” Each mask comes with a meditation. I’m currently on my third set of these (obsessed) and I’ve started to tuck the little meditations into everything from letters to care packages for my loved ones.
Bedding, for Mother’s Day? Actually groundbreaking. She’d never buy this for herself, but she definitely has a Pinterest board dedicated to the color. It’s the kind of upgrade she’ll think about every night once she has it.
If she’s even a little into skincare, this is the tool she didn’t know she was missing. It’s quick, effective, and makes a visible difference. (This skincare-obsessive writes from experience.)
If she’s the type to reapply lotion three times a day and still not be satisfied, this is the upgrade. Skin feels softer, looks better, and actually stays that way.
A nostalgic, beautifully printed apron that turns everyday cooking into something you actually look forward to. (Shout out to everything Friend of Mine does—it’s Mother’s Day gifting gold.)
For when you want something that feels a little more personal—without veering into anything overly precious. These are the pieces she’ll actually always keep.
For the mom who can throw together a simple meal and still make it feel like a whole thing. A beautiful set that makes even a quick lunch look intentional.
A good mug is weirdly personal. Maybe that’s why I have 20 and always come back to the same one? This mug has just enough weight and shape to make it feel like hers from the first sip.
Not overly positive, not unrealistic—this is about staying grounded when things are hard. It’s the kind of book she’ll read slowly, underline, and come back to when she needs it most.
I trust Anima Mundi with pretty much every part of my routine, so this was an easy yes. It’s rich in botanical ingredients like helichrysum, aloe, and jojoba, so you actually wake up with hydrated, calmer, noticeably better-looking skin—not just the idea of it.
This is the one people stop her for. It’s light, floral, and somehow always reads as her skin, but better—not overpowering, just unmistakably good. The kind of scent she’ll wear every day and still get asked about.
For when she wants to slow down, but needs a reason to do it. This is the kind of book she’ll pick up, read a few pages of, and always keep on the nightstand.
One of those small additions that makes her feel like she has her life together—at least in the morning. Rich, slightly earthy, and packed with real antibacterial benefits, it’s the kind of upgrade she’ll actually stick with.
If she’s still waking up to her phone, this is the upgrade. It’s softer, calmer, and makes her mornings feel noticeably less chaotic. (Bonus: It doesn’t require a phone to operate—so she has no excuses for keeping it out of the bedroom.)
Some gifts just slip seamlessly into her life—no occasion required. These are the pieces that elevate her everyday style with ease, blending function, comfort, and just the right amount of polish.
I’m fully convinced every woman needs one incredible leather jacket, and this is it. It’s timeless, slightly oversized in the right way, and works with everything—from a clean, minimal look to something softer and more feminine.
You know them for their luggage—this is just as good. If she’s the kind of mom who leaves the house with no less than seven things in her hands, this bag is the answer. Big enough to carry everything without collapsing into chaos.
Living with roommates comes with its own set of patterns: shared spaces, overlapping routines, the comfort of knowing someone else is always just down the hall. But when it comes to food, those patterns rarely align. We might find ourselves in the kitchen at the same time, but with entirely different cravings, schedules, and needs. More often than not, I’m cooking for one.
And as someone who genuinely loves to cook, I’ve found that it’s not always as simple as it sounds. Batch cooking loses
Living with roommates comes with its own set of patterns: shared spaces, overlapping routines, the comfort of knowing someone else is always just down the hall. But when it comes to food, those patterns rarely align. We might find ourselves in the kitchen at the same time, but with entirely different cravings, schedules, and needs. More often than not, I’m cooking for one.
And as someone who genuinely loves to cook, I’ve found that it’s not always as simple as it sounds. Batch cooking loses its appeal after the second day. Grocery shopping becomes an exercise in over- and underestimating (too much of one thing, not enough of another). Ingredients feel like they come in quantities designed for a different kind of life, one where meals are shared, and nothing goes to waste.
Still, there’s something I’ve come to appreciate about cooking for yourself. It asks you to be a little more intentional—to choose what you’re in the mood for, to make something that meets the moment exactly as it is. And when the recipe is right, it can feel less like a compromise and more like a small act of care.
Why Cooking for One Is Harder Than It Should Be
In theory, cooking for one sounds simple. Fewer ingredients, less time, minimal cleanup. But in practice, it rarely works that way.
Most recipes aren’t designed with a single person in mind, which means you’re constantly adjusting—halving measurements, rethinking portions, or committing to leftovers you didn’t necessarily want in the first place. And then there’s the grocery store, where everything seems packaged for families or at least two people, leaving you to choose between not having enough… or having way too much.
When every meal requires a little extra thought, it can start to feel easier to default to something repetitive or skip the effort altogether. Which is why having a handful of recipes that actually work for the way you live makes all the difference.
5 Smart Ways to Make Cooking for One Easier
A few small shifts can make cooking for one feel less like a daily puzzle and more like something that fits naturally into your life.
1. Buy ingredients that can carry across multiple meals. Instead of shopping for a single recipe, think in overlaps. A bunch of herbs, a jar of sauce, a cooked grain—ingredients you can use in slightly different ways over a few days without feeling like you’re eating the same thing twice.
2. Cook components, not full meals. Rather than committing to one fully assembled dish, prepare a few building blocks you can mix and match. Roast vegetables, cook a protein, make a simple dressing—then assemble meals based on what you’re in the mood for.
3. Freeze sooner than you think you need to. If something isn’t going to get used in the next day or two, freeze it. Half a loaf of bread, leftover soup, cooked grains, etc. It’s less about saving food for later and more about giving yourself options when you don’t feel like starting from scratch.
4. Keep a few “bridge” ingredients on hand. Eggs, tortillas, greens, yogurt—ingredients that can turn whatever you have into an actual meal. They’re the difference between feeling like you have nothing to eat and pulling something together in minutes.
5. Let meals repeat—but change one thing. Cooking for one doesn’t mean reinventing dinner every night. It just means avoiding boredom. Keep the base the same, then swap a sauce, a topping, or a seasoning. Familiar, but not monotonous.
Not every recipe translates well when you’re cooking for one. The ones that do tend to share a few key qualities—small details that make the difference between something that works once and something you’ll come back to again and again.
It scales easily. No complicated math or awkward half-measurements—just simple portions that make sense for one.
It minimizes waste. Ingredients are either used fully or can be repurposed in another meal.
It’s flexible. You can swap what you have on hand without compromising the dish.
It’s quick enough for a weeknight. Ideally under 45 minutes, with minimal cleanup.
It actually satisfies. A balance of protein, fat, and carbs so you’re not hungry an hour later.
The recipes below check all of these boxes—designed to be simple, adaptable, and worth making even when it’s just for you.
15 Easy Dinner Recipes for One
Whether you live alone or just find yourself on your own for dinner more often than not, consider this your go-to list of easy, satisfying recipes designed with real life in mind. Minimal waste, flexible ingredients, and just enough effort to make it feel special. Light a candle, pour something fun, and set the table (even if it’s just for you). Cooking for one, done well, is something worth romanticizing.
Flexible, Build-Your-Own Meals
Detox Salad with Creamy Cashew Tamari Dressing
This vibrant, veggie-packed salad is meant to serve four, but when I’m having it as a meal, I pile my plate high with all the greens—and add protein like grilled chicken, salmon, crispy tofu, or chickpeas to make it truly satisfying.
The ultimate clean-out-the-fridge meal. Think creamy, smoky hummus, warm flatbread, and whatever fresh vegetables you have on hand. This meal comes together in a way that somehow feels completely intentional.
A perfect clean-out-the-fridge dinner that still feels elevated. Crisp greens and roasted vegetables, plus a punchy herb sauce, make it anything but basic.
The salad that eats like a full meal. Crispy tofu, creamy dressing, crunchy toppings: basically every bite hits that perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Burrata Toast with Blood Orange, Pistachios & Honey
A little luxurious, a little effortless. Creamy burrata and citrusy brightness make this the kind of dinner for one that feels like a treat, not an afterthought.
This is the kind of salad that actually feels exciting. Pick up a pack of crispy, salty halloumi and layer it over fresh, herby greens. The tangy vinaigrette makes every bite feel balanced and just a little addictive.
A reminder that the simplest dinners are often the ones you come back to. This dinner party-ready pasta (that’s an easy treat for one) makes the most of jammy tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil for a low-effort meal.
A few scrolls on Instagram and suddenly it feels like your wellness routine is incomplete. There’s always a new powder, capsule, injection, or “daily essential” promising everything from better energy to balanced hormones. As a nutrition consultant, I see how quickly that kind of marketing turns into a long supplement list. But in most cases, less is more. In fact, my ethos is deeply rooted in the belief that supplements are meant to support your foundation, not replace it. With that in mind, h
A few scrolls on Instagram and suddenly it feels like your wellness routine is incomplete. There’s always a new powder, capsule, injection, or “daily essential” promising everything from better energy to balanced hormones. As a nutrition consultant, I see how quickly that kind of marketing turns into a long supplement list. But in most cases, less is more. In fact, my ethos is deeply rooted in the belief that supplements are meant to support your foundation, not replace it. With that in mind, here’s a simple supplement guide to help you tune out the unnecessary noise.
It’s an umbrella term. And it includes everything from vitamins and minerals to herbs, botanicals, enzymes, and other nutrients. Most people think of supplements as a daily multivitamin or a few basics like vitamin D or magnesium, but they actually come in many forms! Including capsules, powders, gummies, liquids, and even fortified foods and drinks. In simple terms, supplements are not meant to replace food or be the foundation of your nutrition. Instead, they’re designed to complement a balanced diet, helping to fill in gaps or support specific needs when food alone may not be enough.
The Purpose of Dietary Supplements
At the end of the day, supplements aren’t a substitute for a balanced diet. And unlike prescription drugs, supplements aren’t allowed to be marketed for the purpose of treating, diagnosing, preventing, or curing diseases. Knowing this, be wary of supplements that make disease claims, such as “lowers high cholesterol” or “treats heart disease!”
In our baseline supplement guide below, each supplement has a specific purpose—and has been vetted for quality.
The Truth About How Supplements Are Regulated
Surprisingly, the FDA isn’t authorized to review dietary supplement products—for safety and effectiveness—before they’re marketed. Rather, manufacturers and distributors take this responsibility. They make sure their products are safe before they go to market. Seems like a bit of a loophole, right? Here’s the caveat: If the dietary supplement contains a new ingredient, manufacturers must notify the FDA. In that case, the FDA will review (not necessarily approve!) the new ingredient for safety, but not effectiveness.
Who Takes Responsibility for Quality?
In terms of quality, this also falls on manufacturers. They ensure their products are pure. Meaning, they don’t have contaminants or impurities. Furthermore, supplements must be accurately labeled according to current Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and labeling regulations. That being said, the FDA will get involved if there’s a serious problem associated with a dietary supplement. They have the power to take the dietary supplement off the market due to safety concerns or false/misleading claims.
The Risks in Taking Supplements
As with medications and over-the-counter drugs, there are risks in taking supplements. Many supplements contain active ingredients that have strong biological effects. Depending on usage, this could make them unsafe. For example, the following actions could lead to harmful consequences:
Taking supplements without notifying your healthcare provider
Combining supplements
Using supplements with medicines (whether prescription or over-the-counter)
Substituting supplements for prescription medicines, particularly before, during, and after surgery
Consuming too much of some supplements, such as vitamin A, vitamin D, or iron
Taking supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Keep in mind that everybody requires different nutrients, so please consult your healthcare provider before changing your supplement routine.
Do You Need to Take Supplements?
This is the million-dollar question. First and foremost, it’s important to understand that we’re all bio-individuals. We all have unique nutritional needs. And that includes supplements. While supplements are heavily marketed, not everyone needs them. Some people don’t require as many as others. However, a “reference range” and an “optimal range” aren’t the same thing. When possible, optimal is ideal. Therefore, supplements can be incredibly useful for not only filling gaps in your diet but also helping you reach optimal levels. Our supplement guide is here to do both.
3 Things to Consider Before Taking a New Supplement
Whether you’re eyeing new supplements or you’re already taking a few, here’s how to make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck:
Have you been diagnosed with a deficiency (iron, vitamin D, etc.)? What does your blood work show? Make sure that what you’re taking has a targeted purpose. Rather than waste your money on unnecessary supplements, get your healthcare provider’s stamp of approval first. In the context of nutritional counseling, supplement guidance by a professional is key.
Just because a supplement comes from a “natural” food store doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safe. As noted above, look for specific labels and do your research. Be wary if you’re currently taking other prescriptions or over-the-counter drugs.
Know how much of the supplement you’re supposed to take. A common misconception about dietary supplements is that if a vitamin or mineral is good for you, increasing your intake might deliver additional health benefits. This isn’t the case. For example, too much vitamin D can actually weaken bones, and biotin—a popular supplement to improve skin, nails, and hair—can interfere with lab-test results when taken at high levels.
When to Take Your Daily Supplements
This depends, of course! Some supplements are more specific about the time of day (I prefer magnesium at night), so you can research the individual recommendation for those. However, most are generally flexible. What matters is that you choose a time you know you can be consistent with. As for the empty stomach versus food debate, some vitamins are fat-soluble, and some are water-soluble. Those that are fat-soluble, like vitamin D, should be paired with a source of fat. Some vitamins only need to be paired with water, like B vitamins and vitamin C.
What You Probably Don’t Need (Despite the Marketing)
Before we get to the guide, let’s talk about what you don’t need. Spend a few minutes on Instagram, and it’s easy to believe you need a supplement for everything, from cortisol “calming” gummies to melatonin for sleep and greens powders for energy. While some of these can be helpful in specific situations, they’re often marketed as quick fixes for issues that are better addressed at the root. Chronic stress, for example, is rarely solved with a gummy and is more often tied to factors like sleep, blood sugar balance, and overall lifestyle. The same goes for melatonin, which can be useful short-term but isn’t always the best long-term solution for ongoing sleep issues.
In many cases, focusing on foundational habits will have a far greater impact than adding another supplement, making it important to be discerning about what you actually need versus what’s simply being marketed to you.
Simple Supplement Guide
Before getting into the weeds with a long list of targeted supplements, these are a few foundational ones I tend to come back to as a nutrition consultant. They’re widely beneficial, often under-consumed, and can support everything from energy and metabolism to sleep and overall health when used appropriately.
Vitamin D3 + K2
A high-quality vitamin D3 paired with K2 is a great place to start, especially if you’re not getting consistent sun exposure. This combination supports immune function, mood, and bone health, with K2 helping direct calcium to where it’s needed most. In practice, I find vitamin D (which actually functions as a fat-soluble prohormone!) is one of the most common deficiencies I see in clients, and supporting optimal levels can make a noticeable difference in resilience and overall well-being.
Magnesium
Magnesium is one of the most common deficiencies and plays a role in hundreds of processes in the body, including nervous system regulation and sleep. I love the beeyavibe powder for its calming effect, especially in the evening. Many of my clients notice improvements in sleep quality, stress levels, and even digestion when they consistently incorporate magnesium.
Omega-3 (Fish Oil)
A high-quality fish oil can help balance inflammation and support brain, heart, and hormone health. Look for trusted brands like Nordic Naturals or Rosita that prioritize purity and sourcing. From a nutrition standpoint, most diets are lacking in omega-3s, and I often recommend this as a foundational supplement, particularly for those dealing with skin concerns or hormone imbalances.
Creatine
We’ve said it once, but we’ll say it again: creatine isn’t just for athletes. It can support muscle recovery, strength, and even cognitive function, making it a valuable addition for women as well! I typically recommend it (5 grams) for clients who are strength training or working on building lean muscle, as it can enhance performance and recovery when paired with regular exercise. I don’t recommend creatine gummies as research has shown the dosage isn’t always accurate. Instead, opt for creatine monohydrate from Lineage or Thorne.
Spore-Based Probiotic
A spore-based probiotic, like Epetome, can help support gut health in a more resilient way than traditional probiotics. These strains are designed to survive the digestive process more effectively, which can make them a better option for some individuals. In my experience, this can be especially helpful for clients who have dealt with ongoing gut issues or who haven’t seen results from standard probiotics.
While these aren’t one-size-fits-all, they’re a strong starting point before layering in more personalized supplements like a multivitamin or targeted nutrients based on your individual needs.
Edie Horstman
Edie is the founder of nutrition coaching business, Wellness with Edie. With her background and expertise, she specializes in women’s health, including fertility, hormone balance, and postpartum wellness.
Disclaimer: As always, this is not medical advice. Supplements should be tailored to your individual needs, so it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your routine.
This post was last updated on April 20, 2026, to include new insights.
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