Soup
A simple way to stay warm during the winter months is to whip up a big batch of soup. Kristy, R&D Scientist says, “I love making big batches of soup during the colder months since they are easy to freeze and reheat whenever I am looking for a warm comforting meal.” Some of Kristy’s favorite soup recipes include Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Soup and a classic bowl of Tomato Soup. “I like the chickpea and cauliflower recipe, especially on cold days because its nice and creamy without being too heavy. The tomato soup is so easy to make and pairs perfectly with homemade croutons.” Some of Kristy’s other winter favorites include Butternut Squash Fritters and Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal.

 If you want to cut down on the greasiness of the butternut squash fritters, try baking them in the oven instead of pan frying them. -Kristy, Simple Mills Product Development Scientist


Appetizers

The holiday season brings with it gatherings with family, friends and neighbors and one of the simplest ways to feed a hungry holiday crowd is by whipping up an assortment of appetizers. Anna, R&D Manager for Crackers & Baking Mixes, is all about appetizers for her family during the holidays. A holiday staple for Anna and her family includes a Smoked Salmon Appetizer. Another holiday favorite for Anna is a cheese board. “It’s kind of simple, but my family always has a huge cheese plate that consists of an array of cheeses, crackers, seasonal fruits like apples and pears and roasted pecans.”

"Another thing that excites me about the winter season is that grapefruits are in season. I love whipping up a grapefruit and avocado salad for lunch and then topping it with a white wine vinaigrette." -Anna, R&D Manager for Crackers & Baking Mixes




Super Easy Eats

The holidays can include a lot of classic dishes that take time to make, which is why Kacey, Product Development Scientist prefers recipes that are quick and easy like Simple Mills waffle mix or Carrot Slaw. Kacey says, “The Carrot Slaw is a great way to fill up on veggies and is extremely easy to make.” Don’t be afraid to put your own twist on recipes either. Kacey likes to substitute pistachios for walnuts and adds in a handful of her favorite topping - golden raisins. Another favorite winter dish of Kacey’s is overnight oats. “I do all the work the night before, and in the morning I have a filling and nutritious breakfast waiting for me in the fridge.”

"Although anything goes for an oatmeal topping, my favorites are cinnamon, golden raisins or chopped dates, grated green apple, honey and a touch of lemon juice. You can even fold in some Greek yogurt (or non-dairy yogurt) for added protein and creaminess." -Kacey, Product Development Scientist

Looking for another super easy eats recipe?

Try this Butternut Squash Chia Seed Pudding:

Roast 1 cup of butternut squash until tender

Blend with 10 ounces of coconut milk, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice and turmeric

Mix with 4 tablespoons of chia seeds and let it sit overnight

Top with sliced bananas and your favorite nut butter of choice before serving
 

*Recipe makes roughly two servings.

-Ashley Streich, R&D Manager for Cookies & Bars

Winter Wellness Tips

It may be the winter holidays, but that doesn’t mean you have to derail your health and wellness goals. Anna, R&D Manager for Crackers & Baking Mixes, has some excellent additional winter wellness tips:

Replace the potatoes in your favorite potato au gratin recipe with other more nutrient-dense root vegetables like sweet potatoes or turnips. You can even make mashed potatoes using mashed cauliflower.

If you know everyone will be bringing heavy food to the party, be the person that brings the salad. Kale salads are super easy to dress.

You don’t have to turn everything into a casserole. Just tossing veggies in high-quality oil and adding a dash of salt and pepper and then roasting them makes a side dish your guests will be sure to love.

Feeling like you may be getting sick? Try a warm mug of orange spiced tea with extra whole cloves. “I’m convinced cloves help keep away a winter cold,” says Anna. Teas with black pepper, ginger or turmeric are all good options too. Anna also recommends eating a lot of Vitamin D rich foods all year long, but especially during the cold winter months. “Sauteed mushrooms are a delicious option!”

No matter what you whip up this holiday season, remember to savor all the flavors of the season and maybe create a new tradition with one of these recipe ideas.

Show us your family holiday favorites by tagging us @SimpleMills.