There’s a particular kind of afternoon that I want to bottle up and remember forever. The kind where nobody is looking at their phones, the wine glasses keep getting refilled, and somehow two hours pass, and no one has moved from the table. That’s how I remember the day that Camilla Marcus joined a group of friends and me for lunch in my backyard to celebrate the launch of her cookbook, My Regenerative Kitchen.

We’d been trying to make it happen for weeks, and when it finally came together on a warm spring day, the afternoon delivered everything we’d imagined. We set big platters of food on the table outside, served everything family-style, and lingered in that easy, unhurried way that only happens when the food is simple and the company is everything.

The menu tasted like spring. Chilled pea gazpacho passed around in little bowls. A fennel salad. Rose dark chocolate bark for dessert with coffee. Natural wine and sparkling water. And these tartines, which were the thing everyone kept talking about afterward.

The Chef Behind the Recipe

If you’re not familiar with Camilla Marcus, she’s one of those cooks who makes everything feel both effortless and considered. Her approach to cooking is easygoing and intuitive, grounded in a deep appreciation for seasonality and the farmers who grow the food. She’s also the founder of west~bourne, her direct-to-consumer brand making feel-good provisions inspired by California’s bounty. I’d known Camilla for a few years and am always excited for a chance to cook together—and these tartines perfectly represent the way she thinks about a meal.

The recipe comes from her cookbook, My Regenerative Kitchen, and her description of them is perfect: the ultimate chef snack. Equal parts creamy and crunchy with peak-season ingredients. No rules, and absolutely no fuss.

Canyon “Essentials” Dinnerware, Set of 12

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Cocina Salt & Spice Tray

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The Sunday Salad Set

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What Elevates This Tartine Recipe

When it comes to food that’s this simple, the beauty’s in the restraint. The last thing we want to do is complicate something where every element is so good it earns its place. That means the bread matters (thick-cut, from a good bakery, fried in avocado oil until golden and crisp). The tomato is key (find the best heirloom you can get your hands on). And the blue cheese—frozen and shaved thin so it melts into lacy ribbons over the warm bread—is the secret ingredient that takes this to another level.

The roasted beet tartine—yogurt or crème fraîche spread thick, golden beets layered on top, finished with toasted pepitas—has slightly more surprising ingredients. Beets and crème fraîche are a combination I knew I loved, but something about the contrast with the crisp fried bread made it feel completely new. Cool and creamy against all that crunch.

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A Few Tips for Success

Serve these as a starter, a lunch, or, honestly, the sort of snack that becomes the whole meal because you can’t stop eating them. They’re best when the tomatoes are at their peak, so definitely keep these top of mind as we head into the summer months.

We made these in a large cast-iron pan and kept them coming in batches. (You won’t believe how much the simple touch of frying the bread elevates these tartines.) And keep in mind Camilla’s more-is-more rule when it comes to the crème fraîche. It keeps these tartines feeling absolutely indulgent.

If you’re building a spring lunch around these, the pea gazpacho and a simple fennel salad round it out perfectly. Add a bottle of something cold and pink, clear your afternoon, and linger as long as you possibly can.

This recipe is from Camilla Marcus’ cookbook, My Regenerative Kitchen.

Tartines with Heirloom Tomato, Blue Cheese, and Golden Beets

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★★★★★

5 from 1 review

• Author: Camilla Marcus
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings

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Description

Chef Camilla Marcus’ tartine recipe from My Regenerative Kitchen — fried bread, heirloom tomato, blue cheese, golden beets. Simple, seasonal, and worth every bite.

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Ingredients

Units USM

• 2 slices thick-cut bread (a simple country loaf or brioche works beautifully)
• 4 tablespoons avocado oil, plus more to garnish
• Maldon salt and fresh cracked pepper
• 1 heirloom tomato, sliced
• 6 slices blue cheese, frozen to firm up, then shaved
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup sheep’s milk yogurt or crème fraîche
• 6 slices roasted golden beets
• 1 tablespoon toasted pepitas

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Instructions

1. Drizzle a cast iron skillet with enough avocado oil to coat the bottom, and get it hot over medium-high heat. Fry the bread evenly on each side, moving it around and flipping as you go, until nicely crisped and golden brown all over. Remove from the pan and drain on a rack or kitchen towel — hit it with a pinch of Maldon salt immediately while still piping hot.
2. On one slice, layer the tomato slices, then top with the shaved blue cheese and finish with a drizzle of avocado oil, Maldon salt, and cracked pepper.
3. On the other slice, spread the yogurt or crème fraîche in a generous layer, top with the sliced golden beets, and garnish with the toasted pepitas. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve immediately, while the bread is still warm.

• Prep Time: 10
• Cook Time: 5
• Category: sandwich

Keywords: tartine

The post This Tartine Recipe Is Peak Spring on a Plate appeared first on Camille Styles.

Omega-3-rich salmon is the perfect fish for grilling — its naturally high fat content keeps it moist and flavorful over high heat, making it far more forgiving than leaner fish that can dry out quickly on the grill (1). Bold and satisfying, salmon can stand up to big flavors, which is why it pairs so beautifully with this zesty Sriracha aioli. These sliders come together in just 20 minutes and are impressive enough to serve at your next cookout.

Active time: 20 minutes | Total time: 20 minutes

Salmon Sliders with Sriracha Aioli 

Ingredients

• Cooking spray
• 1/3 cup (83g) light mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tbsp Sriracha pepper sauce
• 1 tsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 lb (455g) sockeye salmon fillet, skin and pin bones removed
• 8 slider buns
• 1 cup packed baby arugula

Directions

Prepare a charcoal fire or preheat a gas grill to medium-high heat. Coat the grill rack with cooking spray.

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, cilantro, Sriracha, and soy sauce. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Cut the salmon into 8 pieces, about 55g each. Grill for 3–5 minutes, turning once, until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Thin tail pieces may be grilled on lightly greased foil and stacked after grilling if needed.

Spread about 1 tsp of the aioli on the cut side of each bottom bun. Top with the salmon and arugula then place the top bun in place. Secure with a pick if desired and serve immediately.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 2 sliders (each includes 2 oz. salmon + 1 tsp sauce)

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 446; Total Fat: 19g; Saturated Fat: 4g; Monounsaturated Fat: 5g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g; Cholesterol: 63mg; Sodium: 739mg; Carbohydrate: 36g; Dietary Fiber: 2g; Sugar: 5g; Protein: 30g

Nutrition Bonus: Potassium: 509mg; Iron: 12%; Vitamin A: 9%; Vitamin C: 6%; Calcium: 10%

Originally published: September 12, 2015; Updated June 2026

The post Salmon Sliders with Sriracha Aioli appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

Farro is a dietitian-approved grain to cook with because of its delicious nutty flavor and impressive fiber and protein content (1). Semi-pearled farro is easy to find at grocery stores and is the star of this whole-grain risotto-like Instant Pot dish. Fresh peas (frozen is fine in a pinch), baby spinach and lemon give this hearty dish a beautiful pop of color and bright, fresh flavor.  

RD Tip: If desired, the baby spinach can be subbed with other vegetables such as fresh pea shoots or baby arugula.

Active time: 15 minutes | Total time: 45 minutes

Pressure Cooker Fresh Pea Farrotto

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large leek, light green and white parts only, rinsed well and thinly sliced
• 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
• 1 1/2 cups (270g) semi-pearled farro
• 3 medium garlic cloves, minced
• 2 1/2 cups (613g) chicken bone broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup (145g) shelled fresh peas (or frozen, thawed)
• 1/2 cup (40g) shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 2 cups (60g) baby spinach
• 2 tsp lemon juice

Directions

Add oil to Instant Pot, select Sauté and adjust to Normal/Medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the leeks and celery and cook, stirring frequently, until the leeks are tender, about 4 minutes. Add the farro and garlic and cook, stirring frequently, for 1 minute. Press Cancel.

Add the broth and bay leaf and stir to combine. Lock on the lid, select the Pressure Cook function and adjust to High pressure for 9 minutes. Make sure the steam valve is in the Sealing position.

When the cooking time is up, let the pressure come down naturally for 10 minutes, and then quick-release any remaining pressure. Stir in the peas and cheese. Cover and let stand for 3 minutes to allow the cooking liquid to thicken. Remove and discard bay leaf. Season with the salt and pepper.

Toss the baby spinach with the lemon juice. Divide the farrotto among 4 bowls. Top with the baby spinach and serve.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 1 ⅔ cups farrotto, 1/2 cup baby spinach

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 435; Total Fat: 14g; Saturated Fat: 4g; Monounsaturated Fat: 6g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g; Cholesterol: 11mg; Sodium: 739mg; Carbohydrate: 60g; Dietary Fiber: 10g; Sugar: 3g; Protein: 19g

Nutrition Bonus: Potassium: 222mg; Iron: 25%; Vitamin A: 33%; Vitamin C: 16%; Calcium: 20%

Originally published April 4, 2020; Updated May 2026

The post Pressure Cooker Fresh Pea Farrotto appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

These mini meatloaves prove that comfort food and nutritious eating can go hand in hand. Swapping traditional breadcrumbs for almond flour keeps the recipe low-carb and gluten-free, while sautéed onion, bell pepper, and grated zucchini add moisture, flavor, and a boost of vegetables to every bite. A topping of marinara sauce and melted mozzarella makes these as satisfying as they are nourishing. Pair with whipped cauliflower mash to round out a cozy, weeknight-friendly dinner.

Active time: 15 minutes | Total time: 45 minutes

Mini Meatloaves

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped or grated
• 1 medium red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 lb 95% lean grass-fed ground beef
• 1 small zucchini, grated and patted dry with a paper towel
• 1/2 cup (45g) almond flour
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup (237ml) low-sodium jarred marinara sauce, divided
• 1/2 cup (28g) grated part-skim mozzarella cheese

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Heat the olive oil in a small saute pan over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 5 minutes. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and let cool for 10 minutes.

Add the ground beef, zucchini, almond flour, egg, balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Stir with a wooden spoon or clean hands until well blended. Divide the mixture into 4 portions. Form each portion into a small meatloaf about 4 1/2 inches (11cm) long on the prepared baking sheet. Press down the length of each meatloaf with the side of your hand to create a 1/2-inch deep divot in the center so it cooks evenly and catches the sauce and cheese. Spread the top of each meatloaf with 1/4 cup (59ml) marinara sauce and sprinkle with the mozzarella cheese.

Bake for 30 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of a meatloaf registers 160°F.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 1 mini meatloaf

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 390; Total Fat: 23g; Saturated Fat: 5g; Monounsaturated Fat: 6g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g; Cholesterol: 131mg; Sodium: 544mg; Carbohydrate: 13g; Dietary Fiber: 4g; Sugar: 6g; Protein: 34g

Nutrition Bonus: Vitamin D: 5%; Calcium: 19%; Iron: 24%; Potassium: 910mg; Vitamin A: 9%; Vitamin C: 89%

Originally published February 2021; Updated May 2026

The post Mini Meatloaves appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

These slow cooker sliders give you all the savory, sweet and tangy flavors of a classic Cuban sandwich but with a dose of whole grains, some heart-healthy fats and almost 60% of your daily calcium needs (1).  Our recipe uses pork shoulder simmered in a sweet, citrus broth made from fresh orange and lime, and is served on a whole-grain slider bun with Swiss cheese and pickles.

Active time: 40 minutes | Total time: 7-8 hours (if using low-heat setting)

Slow Cooker Pork Sliders

Ingredients

• 1 ½ tbsp cumin
• 1 ½ tbsp dried oregano
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• 1 (3.5 lb) pork shoulder, trimmed of as much fat as possible
• 1 tbsp avocado or olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 medium (110g) white onion, thinly sliced
• 1 lime, juiced
• 2 medium oranges, juiced (about 1 cup juice)
• 1/2 cup (120g) water
• 16 whole-grain slider rolls
• ⅓ cup Dijon mustard
• 16 (448g) 1-oz slices of Swiss cheese
• 16 pickle slices

Directions

Prepare the rub by putting cumin, oregano and salt into a small bowl. Toss to combine.

Sprinkle rub over the pork shoulder, and use your fingers to massage the rub into the meat.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil to the skillet, and allow it to heat. Add the pork shoulder to the skillet and sear until it is brown all over, about 7–10 minutes.

Put the pork shoulder into the slow cooker, then add the garlic, onion, lime juice, orange juice and water. Cook pork shoulder on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until meat completely falls apart and temperature reaches 195–205°F.

Take the pork shoulder out of the slow cooker, and shred the meat with a pair of tongs or two forks. Add as much juice from the slow cooker as needed to your shredded pork to keep it moist and juicy.

Split the slider buns and toast them. Spread each bun half with ~½ tbsp mustard, ¼ cup of slow-cooked pork, one a slice of Swiss cheese and pickle. Serve and enjoy!

Serves: 8 |  Serving Size: 2 sliders 

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 719; Total Fat: 36g; Saturated Fat: 15g; Monounsaturated Fat: 12g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g; Cholesterol: 185mg; Sodium: 1263mg; Carbohydrate: 35g; Dietary Fiber: 5g; Sugar: 8g; Protein: 61g

Nutrition Bonus: Potassium: 946mg; Iron: 28%; Vitamin C: 37%; Calcium: 58%

Originally published October 7, 2015; Updated May 2026

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Arroz caldo is one of the most comforting dishes in Filipino cuisine — a rich, gingery chicken and rice porridge topped with crispy garlic and a soft-boiled egg that is eaten for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or any time you need something warm and restorative. This version swaps the traditional glutinous rice for quick-cook oats, adding a hearty dose of fiber and whole-grain goodness without sacrificing any of the dish’s signature warmth and depth of flavor. If you have never tried arroz caldo before, consider this your introduction — and if you already love it, consider this your new weeknight shortcut.

Active time: 15 minutes | Total time: 25 minutes

Oatmeal Chicken Caldo

Ingredients

• 4 tbsp (56g) coconut oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp (6g) minced ginger
• 1/2 yellow onion, diced
• 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
• 3 cups water
• 1 cup (80g) Quick Cook Oats
• 1/2 tsp fish sauce
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 4 boiled eggs, halved
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced
• Juice of one lemon or calamansi

Directions

In a small skillet, heat 2 tbsp of the coconut oil over medium heat. Add 2 tbsp of the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until deep golden and fragrant, about 7 minutes — watch carefully as the garlic can turn from golden to burnt very quickly. Remove with a slotted spoon, drain on a paper towel-lined plate, and set aside.

In a medium pot, heat the remaining 2 tbsp coconut oil over medium heat. Add the ginger, onion, and remaining garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink on the outside, about 3–4 minutes.

Pour in 3 cups of water and bring to a boil over high heat. Stir in the oats, reduce the heat to medium, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the porridge reaches your desired consistency — about 3 minutes for a looser texture or up to 5 minutes for a thicker, more porridge-like result. To confirm the chicken is fully cooked, insert an instant-read thermometer into a piece of chicken — it should register 165°F (74°C). Season with the fish sauce and black pepper, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Ladle the caldo into four bowls and top each with the crispy toasted garlic and chopped green onion. Arrange two egg halves alongside each bowl and finish with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon or calamansi juice. Serve immediately.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 346; Total Fat: 22g; Saturated Fat: 14g; Monounsaturated Fat: 4g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g; Cholesterol: 247mg; Sodium: 159mg; Carbohydrate: 17g; Dietary Fiber: 3g; Sugar: 1g; Protein: 22g

Nutrition Bonus: Vitamin D: 13%; Calcium: 5%; Iron: 12%; Potassium: 389mg; Vitamin A: 1%; Vitamin C: 12%

Originally published: November 7, 2018; Updated June 2026

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The Instant Pot renders chicken thighs fall apart-tender and slender Japanese eggplant deliciously custard-like in just 12 minutes under high pressure. As an added bonus, quinoa, which is a complete protein, can be cooked at the same time using the “pot-in-pot” method (1). You’ll need a tall trivet and 6-cup (1.4L) baking dish that fits inside the pot to cook the quinoa above the chicken mixture.

Active time: 10 minutes | Total time: 40 minutes

Pressure Cooker Ginger Chicken and Eggplant

Ingredients

• 1 lb (454g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, meat cut into 1/2-inch (1.3cm) strips
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) low sodium chicken broth
• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tsp sambal oelek
• 1 large Japanese eggplant, cut crosswise into large (2-inch/5cm) lengths
• 3/4 cup (128g) dry quinoa, rinsed and drained
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/2 cup (12g) basil leaves, torn

Directions

Select the sauté function on the electric pressure cooker and adjust to high heat. Season the chicken all over with salt. Add the olive oil to the pressure cooker and, when hot, add the chicken. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes, or until browned. Add the ginger and garlic and cook for 20 seconds, or until fragrant. Press cancel.

Add the chicken broth, soy sauce, and sambal oelek, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Arrange the eggplant on top of the chicken without stirring.

Place a tall trivet over the chicken and eggplant mixture. In a heatproof baking dish or bowl, combine the quinoa with 3/4 cup plus 1 tbsp water. Cover tightly with foil and place on the trivet.

Lock the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 12 minutes. Quick-release the pressure and remove the lid. Carefully remove the baking dish and trivet. Discard the foil and fluff the quinoa with a fork.

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 1 tbsp cold water. Select sauté and adjust to medium heat. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the pot and simmer for about 1 minute, stirring gently, until the sauce thickens. Top with basil and serve with the quinoa.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 1 cup (227g) chicken-eggplant mixture and 1/2 cup quinoa

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 334; Total Fat: 10g; Saturated Fat: 2g; Monounsaturated Fat: 5g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g; Cholesterol: 106mg; Sodium: 854mg; Carbohydrate: 30g; Dietary Fiber: 5g; Sugar: 2g; Protein: 29g

Nutrition Bonus: Calcium: 5%; Iron: 16%; Potassium: 713mg; Vitamin A: 3%; Vitamin C: 6%

Originally published: November 7, 2019; Updated May 2026

The post Pressure Cooker Ginger Chicken and Eggplant appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

Say bye to bland burgers. These lean chicken patties are spiced up with smoky chipotle peppers for a bold, satisfying bite. And nothing pairs better with a burger than a side of fries — crispy, chili-roasted sweet potato fries add a welcome kick to round out the meal.

Active time: 20 minutes | Total time: 50 minutes

Spicy Chicken Burger with Sweet Potato Fries

Ingredients

For the spicy chicken burger:

• 1 lb (454g) ground chicken breast
• 2 tsp grated onion
• 1 tsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 large (35g) egg white
• 1 tsp olive or canola oil
• 4 whole-grain burger buns, split and toasted if desired
• 4 lettuce leaves
• 4 tomato slices

For the sweet potato fries:

• 2 medium (150g each) sweet potatoes
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Peel the sweet potatoes and cut into 1/2-inch wedges, cutting pieces to the same size for even cooking. Toss with 1 tsp olive oil and chili powder. Spread on a nonstick baking sheet or a baking sheet lined with nonstick aluminum foil. Bake, turning once, for 30–35 minutes, or until crisp and golden brown.

Meanwhile, combine the ground chicken, grated onion, chipotle peppers, cumin, salt, and egg white in a medium bowl and mix well with your hands. Shape into 4 patties.

Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, swirling to coat the bottom. Add the patties and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until completely cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Serve the burgers on the buns with the lettuce and tomato. Serve with the sweet potato fries.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 1 burger and 1/2 sweet potato

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 346; Total Fat: 6g; Saturated Fat: 0g; Monounsaturated Fat: 2g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 0g; Cholesterol: 55mg; Sodium: 371mg; Carbohydrate: 40g; Dietary Fiber: 3g; Sugar: 6g; Protein: 32g

Nutrition Bonus: Potassium: 492mg; Iron: 5%; Vitamin A: 49%; Vitamin C: 25%

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Spiced just right for fall, this flavorful chicken and butternut squash stew is delicious served over whole wheat couscous. To save time, look for cubed winter squash in the produce department—you can also substitute with sweet potatoes.

Active time: 20 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes

One-Pot Chicken & Butternut Squash Stew

Ingredients

• 2 tsp olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1” pieces
• 1 medium (110g) onion, chopped
• 2 tsp ras el hanout spice blend*
• 1/2 tsp salt, divided
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth, divided
• 4 cups (560g) butternut squash, diced into 1” cubes
• 1 14.5-oz. can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 1/2 cups (260g) whole-wheat couscous

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and onion and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is lightly browned and the onion is translucent.

Stir in the ras el hanout spice blend and 1/4 tsp salt and cook for 1 minute. Add 1 cup chicken broth, the butternut squash, and tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F and the squash is tender. Stir in the cilantro.

Meanwhile, bring the remaining 2 cups chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Whisk in the couscous and remaining 1/4 tsp salt. Remove from the heat, cover, and let stand for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

Spoon the couscous into a serving bowl or onto individual plates. Top evenly with the chicken and squash mixture and drizzle with the pan juices.

*Ras el Hanout is a seasoning blend with a very lengthy list of spices used in Moroccan and North African cuisine. For this recipe, you can substitute 3/4 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp ground ginger, 1/4 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp ground coriander, 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon, a pinch of ground allspice, and a pinch of cloves.

Serves: 6 | Serving Size: 3/4 cup couscous + 1 cup chicken and squash mixture

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 319; Total Fat: 5g; Saturated Fat: 1g; Monounsaturated Fat: 2g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g; Cholesterol: 55mg; Sodium: 567mg; Carbohydrate: 47g; Dietary Fiber: 10g; Sugar: 6g; Protein: 26g

Nutrition Bonus: Potassium: 1008mg; Iron: 13%; Vitamin A: 307%; Vitamin C: 36%; Calcium: 8%

Originally published December 7, 2015; Updated June 2026

The post One-Pot Chicken & Butternut Squash Stew appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

Frozen butternut squash cubes add body and nutrients to this simple one-pot macaroni and cheese. We’ve added chicken breast and baby kale to make this a complete meal. Substitute spinach or chopped chard if you like. By using whole-wheat macaroni, you can boost the fiber by around 3 grams per serving. (1)

Active time: 15 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes

Creamy Mac n Cheese With Chicken and Baby Kale

Ingredients

• 2 tsp olive oil
• 1 lb (452g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size strips
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups (473g) low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup (244g) 2% milk
• 1 10 oz. (283g) package frozen butternut squash
• 2 tsp dry mustard
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 1/4 cups (252g) whole-wheat elbow macaroni
• 3 cups (128g) baby kale
• 1 1/4 cups (140g) sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast

Directions

Heat the oil in a large saucepan or skillet set over medium heat. When the pan is hot, add the chicken. Season with the salt and pepper and cook without stirring for 2 minutes. Add the onions, stir and continue to cook until the chicken is no longer pink in the center, 3 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and cover.

Add the broth, milk, squash, mustard and bay leaf to the saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Mash the squash with a potato masher until mostly smooth. Add the pasta and stir to combine. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 6 minutes, stirring once. Fold in the chicken-onion mixture and kale with a rubber spatula, cover and cook until the kale has wilted, 2 minutes.

Remove the pan from the heat and stir the cheese and nutritional yeast into the pasta. Serve immediately.

Serves: 6 | Serving size: 1 cup

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 382; Total Fat: 11g; Saturated Fat: 4g; Monounsaturated Fat: 3g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g ; Cholesterol: 23mg; Sodium: 364mg; Carbohydrate: 42g; Dietary Fiber: 6g; Sugar: 6g; Protein: 34g

Originally published November 20, 2018; Updated February 2026

The post Creamy Mac n Cheese With Chicken and Baby Kale appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

You don’t have to go all-out vegetarian to eat less meat, and this recipe is the perfect example. You only need a half-pound of meat for this updated version of meatloaf. Hearty lentils and savory mushrooms combine with a little lean ground beef for a healthier take on the comfort food classic.

Active time: 10 minutes | Total time: 50 minutes

Meat-Lite Meatloaf

Ingredients

• 8 oz. (227g) white mushrooms, stems removed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups (300g) cooked lentils
• 8 oz. (227g) 90% lean ground beef
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup (91g) ketchup
• 1 tsp chili powder

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.

Place the mushrooms in a food processor and pulse until very finely chopped. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook for about 3 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook for about 4 minutes more, or until tender and the liquid has evaporated.

Place half of the lentils in a food processor and pulse until almost smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. In a large bowl, combine the pureed lentils, remaining whole lentils, and mushroom mixture. Add the ground beef, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and egg and mix until well combined.

Shape the mixture into a 7-by-4-inch freeform loaf on the prepared sheet pan. Bake for 20 minutes.

In a small bowl, combine the ketchup and chili powder. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the ketchup mixture evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for 10–15 minutes more, or until the center reaches 160°F (71°C). Slice into 8 pieces and serve.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 2 slices

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 323; Total Fat: 11g; Saturated Fat: 3g; Monounsaturated Fat: 3g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g; Cholesterol: 89mg; Sodium: 785mg; Carbohydrate: 32g; Dietary Fiber: 9g; Sugar: 10g; Protein: 24g

Nutrition Bonus: Potassium: 664mg; Iron: 29%; Vitamin A: 13%; Vitamin C: 8%; Calcium: 5%

Originally published February 2020; Updated May 2026

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This easy, flavor-packed dinner can be assembled in the morning in your slow cooker so you have dinner waiting for you when you get home. The tomatillos cook down into a tangy stew that gets a kick of heat from jalapeño and canned green chilies, while the boneless skinless chicken thighs become tender and practically fall apart when you shred them. Serve the chili verde over a bed of steamed rice with your favorite toppings, or with warm tortillas for dipping. We like to top it with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.

This is a recipe you can mold to your nutritional needs. You can alter the nutrition by intentionally choosing toppings — add avocados and Greek yogurt if you want to bump up the calories, or radishes if you want extra flavor and crunch without adding many calories. You can also add a can of white beans for extra protein and fiber (1).

Active time: 25 minutes | Total time: 4–6 hours, 25 minutes

Slow Cooker Chicken Chile Verde

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 1/2 lb (680g) tomatillos, husks removed and halved or quartered, if large
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 5 garlic cloves, smashed
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, finely chopped
• 1 4-oz. can chopped green chiles
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 1/2 lb (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, plus more as needed

Directions

In the insert of a 5–7-quart slow cooker, heat the oil on the sauté setting until shimmering. If your slow cooker does not have a sauté setting, heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over moderately high heat, then transfer the contents to the slow cooker before proceeding.

Add the tomatillos and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes, until they begin to brown and soften. Add the onion, garlic, jalapeño, cilantro, green chiles, cumin seeds, and ½ cup water and stir to combine. 

Season the chicken thighs all over with salt and pepper and nestle them into the tomatillo mixture. Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4-6 hours, until the chicken is very tender and pulls apart easily.

Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let rest for 10 minutes. Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-size pieces. 

Meanwhile, use the back of a large spoon or an immersion blender to mash or partially blend the tomatillos to your desired consistency. Stir the shredded chicken back into the sauce along with the lime juice and season with additional salt, pepper, and lime juice as needed.

Serve with your desired toppings and sides.

Serves: 6 | Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 234; Total Fat: 11g; Saturated Fat: 2g; Monounsaturated Fat: 5g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g; Cholesterol: 107mg; Sodium: 379mg; Carbohydrate: 11g; Dietary Fiber: 3g; Sugar: 6g; Protein: 24g

Nutrition Bonus: Calcium: 3%; Iron: 11%; Potassium: 690mg; Vitamin A: 5%; Vitamin C: 33%

Originally published: February 5, 2021; Updated May 2026

The post Slow Cooker Chicken Chile Verde appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.