Food and Recipes
How to Cook Tortellini
Tortellini is an Italian stuffed pasta made with a thin, egg pasta dough filled with cheese, meat or vegetables. It can be cooked from scratch or cooked from a package dry or frozen at the grocery store. Fresh tortellini cook much faster than dried tortellini.
Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Recipe Ideas
If you are looking for a few new ideas or making gluten-free dishes for a guest, we have you covered.
Healthy Chicken Breast Recipes
With a few tweaks and additional ingredients, you can make this humble cut of meat into flavorful, healthy dishes that keep mealtime exciting while supporting health goals.
Halloween Charcuterie Board
Here are some ideas on how to make your charcuterie offerings extra spooky.
Matcha on the Brink: Why We're Running Out and How to Drink Smart
Matcha tea is so popular, Japanese farmers who grow green tea for matcha cannot keep up with the demand. Here is what to know about matcha shortages, how to be smart about your matcha consumption and alternatives to consider.
Healthy Halloween Recipes
Between getting dressed up and heading out for trick-or-treating, sitting down for a nutritious meal might not seem like a priority, but it can make a big difference.
Roasted Spaghetti Squash Sauce
Spaghetti squash is nutrient-dense – low in calories but high in fiber, beta-carotene and vitamin C. It helps support a healthy gut, eyesight and immune system.
How to Cook Arborio Rice
Arborio is a short-grain white rice that originates from Italy. Because of its tendency toward creaminess, arborio isn’t typically cooked on its own but is instead most often used for dishes like risotto or rice pudding.
How to Poach an Egg in the Microwave
Want a healthy start to your day, but don’t have a lot of time? Check out these easy recipes for microwaved poached eggs, scrambled eggs and a few other egg variations for a protein-packed breakfast.
Easy High Protein Meals
Looking to up your protein intake? Here are four easy-to-make meals that contain at least 30 grams of protein apiece. Which recipe are you most likely to try?
Healthy Dessert Recipes
When that sweet tooth hits, it’s easy to reach for cookies, candy or ice cream. These are great in moderation, but what if your dessert could satisfy cravings and offer nourishing qualities at the same time?
How to Cook Rice in the Oven
You can cook any type of rice in the oven, including long-grain, short-grain, jasmine rice or brown rice. The amount of water and cooking time may slightly vary depending on rice type.
10 Fun Facts About Fall Foods
Did you know Michigan is one of the largest producers of apples in the U.S.? Here are 10 fun facts about our local fall harvest.
10 Spice Substitutes to Use in a Pinch
Some spice combinations can come close to replicating the flavor of the spice you are missing. Here is how to replace 10 popular spices.
How Portion Size is Affecting Your Health
Many people struggle with portion control without even realizing it. But those extra bites can add up and have a real impact on your health over time.
The Nutritional Value of Egg Whites Versus Egg Yolks
Eggs are a great source of complete high-quality protein with few calories. But which is better: the egg white or egg yolk?
How to Cook Black Rice
Black rice, which is also referred to as purple rice, gets its black-purple color from a pigment called anthocyanin, which has strong antioxidant properties. Cooking black rice is easy and like cooking most other types of rice.
5 Healthy Homemade Salad Dressing Recipes to Try at Home
Buying store-bought dressing is convenient, but those products are often highly processed and contain excess sugar, preservatives and unhealthy fats. Making your own salad dressing is not only healthier, it’s easier than you think.
How to Cook Barley
Cooking barley is easy, and the finished product offers nutrients that can improve heart health and blood sugar health while giving a boost to the digestive system. Here's how to cook pearled barley and hulled barley.
Could the Way You're Preparing Potatoes Increase Your Diabetes Risk?
Potatoes are the most popular vegetable in the United States. Here is what to know about potatoes and their association with increased Type 2 diabetes risk.
Spiced Apple Rings
These cinnamon sugar apple rings are an easy breakfast addition or treat. Dipped in a batter and seared, they have a soft fluffy outside with a satisfying crunch inside.
Butternut Squash Deconstructed Lasagna
Deconstructed lasagna skips the most time-consuming and fussy parts of traditional lasagna while delivering similar flavors. This creamy pasta sauce relies on nutrient-rich butternut squash along with ricotta for creaminess and is balanced with pesto for a contrast in flavor.
Does Apple Cider Have Health Benefits?
Apple cider is a beloved fall beverage, but is it healthy? Learn more about its pasteurization process and nutrition value, here.
Healthy Tailgate Food Ideas
Tailgates are as much about food and fun as they are about the big game, but planning a dish that satisfies a hungry crowd can feel overwhelming. Wow your crew with fan favorites while adding in a little extra balance with these recipes.
Apple and Caramelized Onion Bites
Baguette or flatbread topped with sweet, caramelized onions and crisp apple slices offer a refreshing break from heavier fare. This dish strikes the balance of sweet, savory and crunchy.
Healthier Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo chicken dip is a fan favorite at any tailgate — creamy, spicy and difficult to stop eating. This lighter version, made with cottage cheese and less cream cheese, keeps the flavor but dials back the heaviness
Healthy Apple Crisp
When you find yourself with only one or two apples in your pantry, don't worry! This delicious apple crisp is made with just a few ingredients.
How to Make Zucchini Noodles
Zucchini noodles, also known as "zoodles," are a cooking trend that doesn't seem to be going away any time soon. Want to learn how to make zucchini noodles? There's a variety of ways to do it, and we list them all here.

Does Kombucha Have Health Benefits?
It’s important to know that rigorous research on Kombucha is limited, but let’s explore some of the most common health claims as well as a few risks worth knowing about before you grab your next bottle.
5 Michigan Superfoods We Love
High in nutritional value, there are many delicious Michigan-based foods that provide amazing health benefits. Here are five of our favorites.
Elote Seasoning Ideas
Love corn? We've come up with two unique seasoning of elote to explore new flavors.
What is Red Yeast Rice? Are There Health Benefits?
What is red yeast rice, and is this a safe substitute for medications? Let’s look at this supplement and safe ways to manage and lower cholesterol.
How to Stop Eating at Night
Making a habit of eating at night can affect your health over time. Understanding why it happens and how to manage it can help you make choices that better support your overall well-being.
How to Cook Udon Noodles
Udon noodles are long, thick wheat-flour noodles that originated from Japan. They are often used in recipes such as soups, stir-fries, noodle bowls and salads, and they pair well with a variety of sauces.
3 Healthy and Balanced School Lunch Ideas
As the back-to-school season approaches, parents and guardians are tasked with the job of packing nutritious lunches for their children. Students who consume a balanced lunch perform better academically and have more energy throughout the day.
Low Sodium Condiments
Consuming high amounts of sodium can contribute to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, high blood pressure and kidney disease. Here are a few low condiments, lower sodium alternatives and tips to find healthier options.
How to Understand Misleading Food Labels
Let’s look at common claims manufacturers make on food labels, what they mean and don’t mean and how to find helpful nutritional information on food labels.
Why You May Want to Skip This Common Sugar Alternative
A common artificial sweetener called erythritol is associated with a variety of negative health effects. Here is a look at the non-nutritive sweetener, the health effects and how to navigate food packaging.
Easy Meals for College Students
Amid all the change, figuring out how to eat healthy can feel like another challenge, but it doesn’t have to be.
One-pot Coconut Curry Gyoza with Frozen Veggies
This is a comfort food upgrade packed with nutrients and flavor - and it only requires cleaning one pot and no chopping.
Don’t Throw Your Fruit Scraps Away! The Surprising Health Benefits of Watermelon Rinds, Orange Peels and More
Since we were kids we discarded the pits, peels and seeds from our fruit while eating the tasty flesh. But did you know the parts of the fruit we usually scrap can have health benefits, too?
Baked Peaches
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, juicy peach straight from the oven.
3 Healthy Peach Recipes
Peaches are more than just a summer treat - they're a nutrient-rich fruit offering a variety of health benefits. They can add a burst of flavor to salads, complement proteins when grilled and can shine at the breakfast table.
Peach Crumble
This seasonal recipe is a lighter take on a classic dessert with less sugar and butter, while packing in fiber from whole wheat oat flour and oats.
Peach Panzanella Salad
Panzanella is a classic Tuscan salad made of dried Italian bread, ripe tomatoes and a simple vinaigrette. This version adds grilled peaches which brings caramelized flavor to this dish without added sugar.
Health Benefits of Watermelon Juice
Recently, watermelon juice has become more popular as a refreshing beverage. Here is a look at the health benefits of watermelon and its juice and whether it’s a healthy option to add to your diet.
Is Cooking with an Air Fryer Healthy?
Air fryers have become one of the most popular kitchen gadgets in recent years. They are commonly used for their convenience and ability to deliver crispy meals with less oil. But is cooking with an air fryer a healthier option?
What to Know about Stone Fruit
Stone fruits are one of the most popular summer fruits on the market. Tart and sweet, these fruits, also called drupes, are versatile and have many important nutrients.
Sodium: How Much Is Too Much?
Most Americans eat too much sodium. But what is “too much?"
8 Summer Snacks That Can Stand the Heat
Before you pack for a summer day outing or road trip, read this list of summer-friendly snacks that won't melt, get soggy or spoil under the sun.
How Vitamin D Can Help with Healthy Aging
Taking a Vitamin D supplement is associated with better aging, according to a new study. Let’s take a look at the results of this new study, the risks of taking supplements and ways to get more vitamin D into your diet.
Lemon Garlic Salmon with Herb-whipped Feta
This delicious summer appetizer strikes the balance between simplicity, nutrition and restaurant-quality flavor.
How to Cook Fava Beans
Fava beans are versatile legumes that are high in fiber, potassium and magnesium. Serve cooked fava beans as a side dish on their own or in a soup, stew or dip.
What’s the Difference Between Kefir and Yogurt?
Americans are consuming more yogurt than ever. Let’s look at kefir, yogurt and how these dairy products compare.
How to Cook Basmati Rice
Basmati rice has less starch than plain white rice and is cooked like most rice types, most commonly on the stovetop or in a rice cooker.
Rating the Health Value of Trendy Sauces and Condiments
From hot honey to Korean gochujang, the sweet and spicy combination is en vogue. But do these sauces and condiments provide any nutritional benefits?
What’s a Safe Temperature to Cook Your Meat?
It’s always important to take precautions and educate yourself on proper food hygiene, especially when it comes to cooking meat.
Strawberry Lemongrass Sorbet
While many frozen treats are loaded with added sugars and ultra-processed ingredients, it’s surprisingly easy to make something indulgent and nourishing at home.
3 Healthy Fourth of July Recipes
This year, consider swapping out some of the heavy, traditional dishes for lighter, plant-forward options that don’t sacrifice flavor. Here are three simple, wholesome recipes that spotlight the best of Michigan’s summer harvest.
Should You Try Protein Coffee?
Putting protein in coffee is yet another social media trend. Let’s look at “proffee” and whether it’s worth a try.
How to Cook Artichokes
You can cook artichokes in a variety of ways, including boiling, grilling, steaming, stuffing or baking. When cooked well, artichokes should hold together and have a silky, creamy texture and an earthy taste.
Beans, Beans, the Musical Fruit: The Many Health Benefits of Beans and Legumes
Beans and legumes are packed full of antioxidants, protein, complex carbohydrates and soluble fiber. It's no wonder that popular kids jingle suggested to eat them with every meal.
How to Tell if Eggs Are Bad
It's important to understand the various food product dates stamped on our food. Knowing the difference between them, as well as how to perform an egg float test, can help you figure out if your eggs have spoiled.
Is it a Dairy Allergy or Lactose Intolerance?
Let’s look at the symptoms of each and how to manage the conditions.
Milk Safety Overview: The Dangers of Raw Milk and the Pros and Cons of Milk Alternatives
June is National Dairy Month, a good time to look at the pros and cons of dairy milk, how dairy compares to milk alternatives and the dangers of raw milk.
9 Iconic Michigan Ice Cream Parlors to Visit
From the upper peninsula all the way down to Jackson, Michigan is dripping with iconic ice cream parlors. How many of these classic Michigan ice cream spots have you tried?
Why You Should Eat More Flavonoids
A study found those who ate more flavonoids, a plant chemical in many fruits and vegetables, aged better than those who had a lower flavonoid intake. Let’s look at flavonoids, associated health outcomes and how to add more flavonoids to your diet.
3 Healthy Father’s Day Recipes
Prioritizing health doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or tradition. It’s an opportunity to reimagine Father’s Day favorites with a fresh and wholesome twist.
Strawberry Shaved Ice
This shaved frozen fruit treat relies on the natural sweetness of ripe seasonal strawberries. Strawberries are loaded with vitamin C, fiber and phytonutrients that support heart health and reduce inflammation.
Mediterranean Salmon Burger with Tzatziki
Salmon is a powerhouse of heart-healthy omega-3s, high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamin D and selenium. The feta cheese brings a rich, tangy flavor to the salmon burgers, while cap
Healthy Pasta Salad
This Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad is packed with fiber-rich vegetables, healthy fats from olive oil and antioxidant-rich herbs.
Michigan Tomatoes: The Six Varieties You Need to Taste
You already know about Beefsteak tomatoes, but there are many varieties grown in Michigan to try before summer ends.

Southwestern Grilled Romaine Salad
By grilling half a head of romaine, the salad body stays intact well and makes for a beautiful presentation. This recipe takes on a Southwestern flavor with cotija cheese, cilantro and chipotle ranch.
What Are the Best Fruits for People with Diabetes?
Fruits are high in nutrients, minerals, antioxidants and fiber necessary for overall health. People with diabetes should include fruit as part of a healthy diet while keeping an eye on fruits with particularly high sugar content.
The ABCs of Marinades and Grilling
Grilling is a popular cooking technique because of the flavor and caramelization it produces. A good marinade combined with the fire of the grill allows complex flavors develop with a texturally pleasing aftermath.
Everything You Need to Know About White Strawberries
White strawberries are sweeter than red ones and can even smell tropical. Here’s what you need to know about this cream-colored fruit.

Healthy Grilling Recipes for Your Memorial Day Menu
Memorial Day is the unofficial kickoff to grilling season. It’s the perfect time to gather with loved ones, enjoy the warmer weather and indulge in delicious grilled foods. Try one of these healthy grilled skewer pairings for your Memorial Day celebration.
Pros and Cons of Vegan Cheese
Thinking of switching to vegan cheese? The plant-based product has its fair share of health advantages compared to dairy cheese. But it has its drawbacks, too.
How to Cook Dried Beans
Beans are a protein-packed, nutritious and versatile staple of many meals including chili, soup and salad. You easily can cook dried beans in a slow cooker or instant pot.
Grilled Swordfish with Caper Salsa Verde
This swordfish is lightly marinated and grilled to perfection. Swordfish is a great selection of fish to grill – it’s meaty enough to hold its texture compared to more delicate options that may fall apart. The salsa verde uses flat leaf parsley as the base herb where a small bit of jalapeño kicks up the heat and capers give it a complex, salty bite.
How to Cook Millet
Millet is naturally gluten-free, a good source of protein and rich in iron, vitamin B and calcium. Many people around the world enjoy millet and incorporate it as a stable in their breakfast, lunch or dinner, and it is popular in dishes such as stir-fries, bowls, salads and cakes.
Spice Up Cinco de Mayo with Two Healthy Recipes
Cinco de Mayo has evolved into a lively celebration of Mexican heritage and pride. Celebrate the occasion with these two creative and healthy recipes.
The Month-by-Month Guide for When to Eat Michigan Produce
Certain fruits and vegetables are in-season in Michigan between March and September. Learn about each one and find out how long each growing season lasts.
What is Millet?
If you've wondered what millet is and what millet looks like, you've come to the right place. Millet is a high-fiber food that's part of the cereal grain family. Jump on the millet bandwagon.
Grilling vs Baking: Which is Healthier?
Grilling is a summer pastime in Michigan, and baking is known to be a healthy way to prepare foods. We all know the grilled food is healthier than fried food, but how does the grilling method stack up against baked food?
Is Your Morning Coffee Good for Your Health?
Your cup coffee has many different benefits, according to a new study. Here’s a look at the health benefits of morning coffee.
Herbaceous Crudité Cups
Crudité cups are an easy appetizer that everyone can enjoy at the table or when socializing. These individual cuts of blanched and fresh vegetables, paired with an herb-based dipping sauce, are light and refreshing.
Strawberries and Cream Whole Wheat Waffle Platter
Waffles are a classic celebratory breakfast. Their health value can be elevated by skipping the syrup, making them whole grain, topping them with fresh strawberries and a light creamy topping.
What’s the Healthiest Type of Grill?
Charcoal grills, gas grills and smokers have all seen an uptick in use over the past five years. The question is, what is the healthiest grill to use?

How to Cook Buckwheat
Buckwheat is neither wheat nor grain, but a seed known for its nutty, toasty flavor and soft texture. Despite its name, it’s naturally gluten-free and a popular addition to a variety of side and main dishes.
How to Cook Brown Rice Pudding
Cooking rice pudding is as easy as boiling rice and putting all the ingredients into a saucepan and simmering until the rice is very tender and the mixture thickens up. You can serve rice pudding warm or chilled and enhance its flavor by including a variety of spices or topping it with fresh fruit.
Why You Should Wait a Few Hours Before That Morning Cup of Coffee
Coffee might be the first thing you reach for when you wake up. However, it might be better to wait a while. Let’s look at the reasons why and when it may be better to enjoy your morning cup.
What’s the Difference Between Vegans and Vegetarians?
There are differences and nuances to both diets. Here are the main points in separating veganism from vegetarianism, including nutritional obstacles people who adopt these diets may encounter.

Chocolate-drizzled Coconut Date Cookies
These three-ingredient cookies’ natural sweetness comes from fiber-rich dates. They are a more wholesome, nutrient-dense alternative to the door-to-door sold cookies.
How to Cook Yellow Rice
Yellow rice is a versatile, popular dish in Indian, Latin American and Mediterranean recipes containing meat, seafood or vegetables. While you can buy yellow rice, it’s easy to make at home with fresh ingredients for added flavor.
Foods to Avoid During Your Period
You may feel like diving into a gallon of chocolate ice cream, but there are certain foods you should avoid during your period.
How to Cook Gnocchi
Gnocchi is a traditional Italian dish that is most often made with potatoes, flour and eggs. Boiling or pan-frying gnocchi are the most common cooking method. Similar to most pasta types, you can serve gnocchi in a variety of ways with or without sauce depending on your personal preference.
Let Brussels Sprouts Become an Important Part of Your Diet
This cruciferous vegetable is related to cabbage and broccoli and is a popular addition to salads or roasted with balsamic vinegar as a side dish. Let's look at the many health benefits of Brussels sprouts and delicious ways to prepare them.
Should I Eat High Protein Ice Cream Instead?
Made with added protein, low-fat milk or milk alternative and sugar substitutes, these pints are marketed as “healthier” and “guilt free.” But are they? Let’s look at high protein ice cream, the claims around the dessert and whether it’s worth buying instead of regular ice cream.
Healthy, Kid-Approved St. Patrick’s Day Treats
Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day as a family is a great way to break the routine and make the day-to-day exciting. Creating colorful, creative snacks is a good way to foster a love for healthy eating while making memories. Here are two easy-to-make, nutritious ideas.





























































































