Cooking Tips

Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream (image credits: pixabay) If you love creamy toppings but worry about fat and calories, swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt contains about 20 calories per serving, compared to 60 calories in sour cream, making it a lighter choice for your meals. It also delivers a boost of protein and contains probiotics, which are good for your digestive health according to the Journal of Nutrition. Greek yogurt’s tangy flavor and thick texture make it nearly indistinguishable in dips, dressings, and baked potato toppings. You get the … Read more

Steaming Steaming (image credits: pixabay) Steaming is a wonderfully simple cooking method that keeps food moist and flavorful without needing lots of oil or expensive equipment. Many people are surprised to learn that steaming vegetables preserves up to 90% of their nutrients, according to the USDA, compared to boiling, which can drain away essential vitamins. All you really need is a basic pot and a steam basket, making it one of the most affordable ways to cook. The gentle nature of steaming means that you get the pure, clean taste of ingredients, and adding herbs or spices into the steam … Read more

Start Your Day with High-Protein Breakfasts Start Your Day with High-Protein Breakfasts (image credits: unsplash) Many people don’t realize how easy it is to boost their daily protein just by changing their breakfasts. Instead of grabbing a sugary cereal, try scrambling a couple of eggs or making a Greek yogurt parfait with nuts and berries. Eggs give you about 6 grams of protein each, while a cup of Greek yogurt can contain up to 20 grams. According to the USDA, eating a protein-rich breakfast helps you feel full longer, which may prevent overeating later in the day. Try adding cottage … Read more

Switch Sugary Drinks for Water or Herbal Tea Switch Sugary Drinks for Water or Herbal Tea (image credits: pixabay) It’s shocking how much sugar is hidden in everyday beverages. According to the CDC, nearly half of all added sugars in American diets come from drinks like sodas and sweet teas. Making the switch to water or unsweetened herbal tea can significantly reduce your daily calorie intake. Not only does this cut your risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes, but it also keeps you hydrated, which is vital for every cell in your body. Herbal teas, such as chamomile or … Read more

Embrace Seasonal Ingredients Embrace Seasonal Ingredients (image credits: pixabay) Seasonal ingredients are a hidden treasure for anyone looking to save money in the kitchen. When you buy produce that is in season, you’re not only getting it at its peak freshness but also at its lowest price. According to the USDA, seasonal fruits and vegetables can cost up to 30% less than out-of-season ones, saving you real money at checkout. For example, enjoying apples in autumn or tomatoes in summer means you’re paying less for better flavor. Local farmers’ markets are great places to hunt for seasonal deals, and community-supported … Read more

Choose Whole Grain Bread Over White Bread Choose Whole Grain Bread Over White Bread (image credits: pixabay) Swapping white bread for whole grain might sound simple, but it can make a huge difference in your health. Whole grain bread contains more fiber, vitamins, and minerals compared to its white counterpart. According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, whole grains reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. The fiber in whole grain bread also helps with digestion and keeps you feeling fuller for longer. Many people notice they have more stable energy levels throughout … Read more

Switching Out Beef for Lentils Switching Out Beef for Lentils (image credits: unsplash) When tariffs cause beef prices to skyrocket, switching to lentils can save your budget without sacrificing nutrition. According to the USDA, beef prices rose by nearly 10% in 2022 due to supply chain disruptions and international trade tensions. Lentils are packed with protein, iron, and fiber—making them an excellent substitute in dishes like tacos, chili, or shepherd’s pie. The texture of cooked lentils is hearty and satisfying, closely mimicking ground beef when seasoned well. Lentils also cook quickly and don’t require refrigeration, which means less waste. Plus, … Read more

Cheese: America’s Favorite Topping Faces Uncertainty Cheese: America’s Favorite Topping Faces Uncertainty (image credits: unsplash) Cheese, a staple in countless American kitchens, could soon become pricier if new tariffs target dairy imports. In 2023, the U.S. imported over $3 billion worth of cheese, with popular varieties like Italian Parmesan and French Brie topping the list. If tariffs are imposed, experts warn that specialty cheeses could see price hikes of up to 25%, making them a luxury for many households. The U.S. Dairy Export Council has already expressed concern about how these changes could disrupt supply chains and hurt small cheese … Read more

Plan Your Meals Around Local Ingredients Plan Your Meals Around Local Ingredients (image credits: unsplash) Shopping for local foods can make a surprising difference when tariffs raise the cost of imported goods. According to the USDA, food imports in the United States have become more expensive due to recent trade disputes, with the average imported grocery item costing up to 15% more than a decade ago. By planning your meals around seasonal produce and local meats, you avoid the extra costs added by tariffs. Farmers markets and community-supported agriculture (CSA) boxes are great sources for affordable, fresh ingredients. This not … Read more

Switch to Locally Sourced Ingredients Switch to Locally Sourced Ingredients (image credits: unsplash) Chefs across the country are responding to rising food tariffs by turning to local farmers and producers for their ingredients. Instead of importing tomatoes from abroad, for example, many restaurants are now sourcing them from regional farms. This not only bypasses tariffs but also strengthens local economies and reduces carbon footprints. Recent data from the USDA shows that local food sales in the United States reached an estimated $12 billion in 2023, a clear sign that this trend is growing. By building closer relationships with local suppliers, … Read more