This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, see our privacy policy.
Light and lean doesn't have to be boring and bland. We're sharing some of our favorite healthy and delicious recipes, all fresh, colorful and bursting with flavor!
After almost three weeks on the road in Ireland, Scott and I are excited to be returning to the States this coming Wednesday. We've loved everything about Ireland, the indescribably beautiful green countryside, multi-hued flowers growing wild along the highways and byways and out of every window box, pot and planter, the kind, friendly Irish people and, contrary to popular opinion, the fabulous Emerald Isle food. Departing will be bittersweet but we miss family and friends and I can't wait to get back in the kitchen.
After enjoying my share of shortbread, Irish scones, soda bread and thickly cut brown bread smeared with delicious Irish butter and jam, I'm feeling like a butterball myself or maybe a little Irish dumpling and I'm looking forward to lighter, leaner fare in the days ahead. I thought some of you might be in the same boat after summer vacations and entertaining so we're sharing some of our favorite healthy and delicious recipes. Bon appétit! (in Irish, taitneamh a bhaint as!)
Fresh, healthy and delicious this make-ahead Strawberry Kale Salad is perfect for summer picnics, potlucks and parties. The honey lemon dressing and candied pepitas take it over the top!
Loaded with healthy veggies, this Cauliflower and Fresh Corn Salad is crunchy and delicious. A sweet, tangy, poppyseed dressing adds fabulous flavor!
This fabulous Roasted Ratatouille Quinoa Salad is loaded with healthy veggies, makes a perfect side for any grilled or roasted entree!
A fabulous Asian-inspired salad with lean chicken and coconut curry noodles; this Asian Chicken and Coconut Curry Noodle Salad is fresh, healthy and crazy-delicious!
Thai Basil Beef Bowls- Got 30 minutes? You’ll flip over this easy, Thai-inspired meal-in-a-bowl. It’s fresh, vibrant, healthy and super delicious!
Served warm or at room temperature, this Israeli Couscous Salmon Salad is light, fresh and delicious. It comes together in right around 30 minutes!
This delicious Mediterranean chicken sheet pan dinner is a super easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights but delicious and pretty enough to serve for a dinner party!
This Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup comes together quickly, is bursting with fabulous flavor and is loaded with lots of healthy veggies!
The perfect way to get your veggie quota in a super delicious way! This wonderful Chicken, Carrot and Chickpea Coconut Curry is loaded with healthy veggies, lean protein and fabulous flavor!
Mexican Grilled Chicken Salad- This fresh salad, bursting with south-of-the-border flavor, is a great way to keep meals healthy and delicious!
Even though we're going to be eating healthy and delicious, we still need dessert! This Limoncello Syrup is so fabulous drizzled on fresh fruit - you won't feel like your missing out a bit!
Kelly | Foodtasia says
Chris, it sounds like a wonderful vacation! Your beautiful selections have me craving healthy and delicious! That cauliflower and corn salad is calling my name!
Laura says
Chris - each and every dish is beautiful! We’ve enjoyed several of your salads, and that curry chicken /chickpeas looks exceptional! Next on my list! Thanks so much!
Liz says
Your salads are always incredible! It's the perfect time to test out a couple of yours!!! xo
Jennifer says
Would the chicken curry dish freeze well, Chris? I plan to freeze some meals for my son/DIL when my first grandchild is born in October and this sounds wonderful! Thanks!
Chris Scheuer says
Hi Jennifer! First of all, congratulations that you're going to have a grandbaby! It's one of life's greatest joys!
Regarding the curry, yes it will freeze well. When it's thawed, the sauce may separate a bit but a good stir while reheating should take care of that without any problem. Enjoy!
Doris Noblet says
Chris, I noticed that Aldi sells Irish butter. What sets it apart from American butter? Creamier?
Chris Scheuer says
Hi Doris, all the Irish butter we've had has been absolutely delicious. I think it's because the cream comes from Irish cows, which after being here for a few weeks, I think are the happiest cows on earth!
Doris Noblet says
Ha! I guess happy cows produce happy milk which makes happy butter! Will buy some on next trip to Aldi.
BTW, a while ago, when we were thinking of going to Ireland, we found out they don't rent cars to folks over 72, so we were already too old. So, ladies and gentlemen, go now while you're "young."
Tricia | Saving Room for Dessert says
Another terrific mouthwatering roundup! That tomato soup and chicken curry are calling my name. Happy safe travels.