The Smoothie Vegetarians

So, the Fall semester started on Wednesday. My son and I are back on the grind. Summer break is over. So sad! But before we officially started, I wanted to make a special treat as one last hurrah. After I saw a package of wonton skins at the grocery store, a gyoza dinner had to happen! Pot stickers are such a comfort food for me, but it’s hard to justify buying them at the store or going to a restaurant (I have a relatively steadfast rule about only buying things with 2 or less ingredients in them—corn chips aside). This recipe is so easy and fun, it’s super kid-friendly. The boy and I whipped up two dozen of these bad billies in 45 minutes—the same amount of time it took to cook the rice. I halved the ginger sesame sauce from the stir fry recipe for dipping and it was aaaawwwweeeesssooommmeee. Feel free to deep fry these, or steam them, or pan fry—they’re great no matter how you heat them up.   Enjoy, Tara Ingredients     1 red onion  ...

Can’t stand overpowering flavor? Freaked out by Fluoride? Experience gum irritation? Aren’t afraid of staining a toothbrush yellow? If you’ve answered ‘yes’ to the above questions, I would suggest trying this turmeric toothpaste! I began seeking at-home toothpaste alternatives when my son started brushing his teeth. Mine? Whatever . His? PRECIOUS. Never having been accustom to store-bought toothpaste, he didn’t wonder why it was yellow or thought it was unusual that he had to shake it. He begrudgingly brushes his teeth just like the kids who use Crest. I also really enjoy not spending $12 a tube for toothpaste without fluoride. Not to mention what a relief is it to brush my teeth before and/or after coffee without the two flavors mixing badly—the mint flavor is only as strong as you make it! Last but not least, I get to mix a little potion! Even if you don’t answer ‘yes’ to the above questions, this recipe is seriously cheap and effective. Why not give it a spin? E...

This dish is fun, bright, and full of flavor. I really enjoy playing with exotic flavors and this sauce is amazing. With ginger, toasted sesame oil, vinegar, and maple syrup, it is very well-balanced; I use it for darn-near everything!  There is such a wide variety of veggies that textures are abound, and everyone in the family can eat and be pleased—even the littles will like it. It can be made with brown rice, yakisoba noodles, or eaten plain. It is vegan and without noodles, gluten-free! Enjoy, Tara Ingredients:     ¼ head of small purple cabbage     3 dino kale leaves     1 baby bok choy     ½ orange bell pepper     1 head of broccoli     Handful of shiitake mushrooms     ½ large zucchini     8 oz. extra firm tofu, diced Sesame Ginger Sauce     3 tbsp. Tamari (or soy sauce)     2 tbsp. rice ...