I mentioned last week that my technical one year anniversary has come and gone and I had absolutely no idea, therefore gave no tribute to it, or reflection on this past year. I say “technical because, while my first post was dated August 19th, I didn’t actual tell anyone about the blog until late October. So, I guess since I missed doing this in August, and it’s not quite yet October, I’ll post this little tribute in September and shoot the middle.
Rather than recapping some of my more popular recipes, or showcasing my personal favorites, I thought I’d highlight some recipes that are fitting for the upcoming season {Fall is nearly here!} as well as dishes I love that might have been overlooked or missed!
But before we get to those recipes, let me quickly say how much I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my little online space this past year! The blog began with me sharing the food/nutrition I love with the friends and family I love. I have no training in the kitchen, nor do I pretend to be an expert of any sort. And in some ways, I hope my lack of training/education in the kitchen is a motivator to anyone who may find the kitchen to be intimidating. My goal has always been to share that eating healthy doesn’t have to be complex, nor bland, nor does it require any extensive skills or schooling. Rather, it’s about being creative in the kitchen, preparing flavor-filled recipes, full of nutritious ingredients, whole foods and organic {and local, when possible} produce.
I’m so thankful that not only have many of my friends and family supported me in this little adventure, but that Lemons and Basil has grown beyond my following in Nashville to other parts of the country and even Europe and Australia. You all have allowed me to find my voice {one in which I am still working on}, be true to myself, and share the ups and downs. With the decline of my mom’s health this past year, my heart continues to break, life is forever changed, and my strength and faith is continuously tested. The support so many of you have offered is truly touching, through this experience with my mom, my family and I have realized how blessed we are to have so many kind and generous people in our lives. It’s overwhelming and humbling to have people across hundreds or thousands of miles relate to your situation, speak words of encouragement, and open up sharing their own personal stories. “Thank you” hardly conveys my gratitude, but it’s a start, so thank you, ever so much!
I can’t wait to see what the next year holds! For now, I hope you enjoy some of these recipes below, perhaps you can stash a few aside for the upcoming months!
Breakfast
Chocolate Granola with Coconut Palm Sugar
Sweet Potato Waffles – Grain and Refined Sugar Free
Smoothies
Turmeric Banana Smoothie with Ginger
Strawberry Chocolate Green Smoothie
Salads
Roasted Acorn Squash and Farro Salad
Kale Salad and Delvin Farms Organic CFA
Lunch/Sandwiches
Harissa Avocado and Turkey Panini
BBQ Lentil Meatballs with Feta Cheese
Dinner
Butternut Squash Quesadilla with Chipotle Avocado Sauce
Balsamic Maple Glazed Cauliflower with Barley
Soups
Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili
Butternut Squash Soup with Fennel
Desserts
Dark Chocolate Salted Caramels
Grain Free Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
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