Can you feel it? That first flicker of summer—the one that sets in as soon as long weekends, backyard dinners, and sun-soaked afternoons are within reach? Memorial Day will be here before we know it, bringing with it the unofficial start of summer and all the seasonal foods we wait for all year: juicy watermelon, smoky grilled mains, fresh salads, frozen desserts, and margaritas in hand. Whether you’re firing up the grill, packing snacks for the beach, or looking for easy Memorial Day recipes, we’ve gathered everything you need for a festive, flavor-packed holiday weekend.

27 Memorial Day Recipes to Kick Off Summer

The best part? These Memorial Day dishes aren’t just for one weekend in May. From easy appetizers and summer salads to grilled chicken, seafood, vegetarian mains, refreshing drinks, and make-ahead desserts, each recipe deserves a spot in your warm-weather rotation. They’re simple enough for a casual family dinner and special enough for a backyard barbecue, picnic, or poolside gathering.

Ahead, you’ll find our favorite Memorial Day recipes to kick off summer in the most delicious way. Consider this your go-to lineup for every sun-soaked gathering to come.

Appetizers

Rainbow Beet Salad

This rainbow beet salad brings instant color to the table, making it feel festive without trying too hard. With juicy heirloom tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a crunchy dukkah finish, it’s the kind of side that feels light and seasonal.

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Roasted Red Pepper Caprese Pasta Salad

We love this one because it checks all the boxes for a summer cookout: easy to transport, full of flavor, and just as good at room temperature. The caprese-inspired mix feels classic, while the sun-dried tomatoes add a deeper, more savory layer.

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Hummus Toast With Tomatoes, Feta, and Za’atar

This recipe is perfect for entertaining because it’s simple, customizable, and easy to serve as an appetizer or casual side. It brings that fresh, snackable energy everyone wants before the main meal without requiring much prep.

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Charred Cabbage With Cashew Cream

This is not your average veggie side. With its smoky char, golden edges, and layered texture, grilled cabbage brings a little drama to the table while still feeling simple.

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Crispy Torn Halloumi Salad

This dish has all the makings of a warm-weather favorite. It’s bright, salty, fresh, and satisfying, with golden halloumi adding the kind of texture that makes a salad feel anything but expected.

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Grilled Romaine Salad with Cherries and Feta

A little heat turns this into more than just greens. The romaine gets charred, crisp, and full of flavor, giving your Memorial Day lineup a lighter dish that still feels bold and satisfying.

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Ricotta and Plum Bruschetta

For the appetizer that looks fancy but takes almost no effort, start here. The contrast of whipped ricotta and ripe plums makes each bite feel fresh and seasonal, while the toasted bread adds just the right amount of crunch.

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Mains

Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas

A fajita spread always knows how to get people gathered around the table. With spiced chicken, sweet peppers, and all the fixings, this recipe brings a fun, hands-on energy to Memorial Day weekend.

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Spice-Rubbed Chicken Thighs

For the main dish that keeps things simple but never boring, chicken thighs are the move. They’re rich, tender, and forgiving on the grill, which means you get maximum flavor without overthinking the cook time.

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Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Grapefruit-Avocado Salsa

These are the tacos that make the whole meal feel more fun. They’re easy to serve, easy to customize, and packed with flavor, making them a crowd-friendly option for a casual gathering.

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Burst Tomato Pasta

This is the kind of recipe that proves a few good ingredients can carry the whole meal. Once the tomatoes blister and burst, they turn into a saucy, flavor-packed base that feels light enough for summer.

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Cedar Plank Halibut with Salsa Verde

If your Memorial Day spread needs a break from heavier mains, start here. Halibut brings a light, flaky contrast to classic cookout recipes while still delivering that just-off-the-grill flavor.

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Grilled Salmon With Stone Fruit Salsa

This is the dish you make when you want the menu to feel a little more elevated without getting complicated. The grilled salmon keeps things classic, and the peach salsa brings a burst of color and sweetness that feels made for the start of summer.

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Desserts

Strawberry Cream Cheese Galette

A little rustic, a little elegant—this strawberry galette is the kind of dessert that feels effortless but still special. Juicy, peak-season berries tucked into a flaky crust make it perfect for serving warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

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Peach Crumble Icebox Cake

A make-ahead dessert is always the hero of a hosting menu. This peach crumble icebox cake lets the fridge do the work, leaving you with a cool, fruit-filled treat that tastes like the first real weekend of summer.

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Strawberries and Cream Pavlova

For the dessert that looks like a centerpiece, pavlova always delivers. The combination of airy meringue and strawberries and cream feels classic, fresh, and celebratory without being overly rich.

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Summer Fruit Salad and Crushed Meringue

Sometimes the best dessert is the one that lets the season speak for itself. This fruit salad celebrates summer produce at its peak, bringing a refreshing, sweet moment to the Memorial Day menu.

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No-Churn Fruit Sorbet

This is the cool-down moment every Memorial Day menu needs. It’s colorful, refreshing, and endlessly easy to serve, whether you’re ending the meal or setting out something sweet for guests to grab between swims.

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Cherry Berry Ice Cream Pie

A frozen pie at a summer cookout is always a good idea. It’s cool, creamy, and just nostalgic enough, making it the perfect Memorial Day treat after a day of sunshine, grilling, and second helpings.

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Grilled Peaches with Honey

Clearly, we can’t get enough of this stone fruit. Jazz up your next ice cream sundae with these honey-grilled peaches. You’ve probably already got the grill going, so you might as well toss them on as well!

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Gluten Free & Vegan Carrot Cake Cupcakes

A tray of cupcakes instantly makes dessert feel more fun. These bring the classic carrot cake flavors into a more casual format that fits right in with picnic plates, backyard tables, and post-grill lingering.

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Drinks

Honeydew Melon Slushies

For the drink that feels like a mini vacation, start with melon. This slushie is bright, refreshing, and beautifully simple, with a frozen texture that instantly makes the menu feel more fun.

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Non-Alcoholic Summer Spritz Bar

For the drink that feels festive without the buzz, this is it. These non-alcoholic summer spritzes are crisp, colorful, and easy to sip all afternoon, making them perfect for a Memorial Day gathering with something for everyone.

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Spicy Mezcal Paloma

This is your classic Paloma with a summer twist. Swapping in mezcal gives the cocktail a bold, earthy flavor that makes every sip feel fresh, zesty, and ready for a long weekend.

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Spicy Margarita

This margarita brings the heat in the best way. It’s bold, bright, and festive enough to make even a casual backyard hang feel a little more fun.

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Lillet Rosé Spritz

This is your patio drink with a polished little twist. The Lillet adds floral, honeyed notes that make it feel more interesting than your usual spritz, while still staying crisp and easy to drink.

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Limoncello Spritz Cocktail

Bring the fizz with this elegant spritz. Perfect for an at-home happy hour gathering, your next family brunch, and of course, Memorial Day. But you definitely don’t need a special occasion to try this tasty little treat.

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 This post was last updated on May 17, 2026, to include new insights.

The post The Only Memorial Day Recipes You’ll Need This Year appeared first on Camille Styles.

You probably already know about my favorite cookbooks of all time—the ones I return to again and again when I need weeknight inspiration, or I’m cooking for friends. But when summer rolls around and I’m craving lighter, nutrient-dense meals, these are the healthy summer cookbooks I reach for year after year.

There’s something about summer that shifts the way we cook. We want meals that are fresh, colorful, and a little lighter—recipes that come together easily and let great ingredients shine. Lately, that’s looked like leaning into my Weeknight Dinner Rhythm—a simple, flexible approach to planning meals that keeps things feeling effortless (even on the busiest days).

These cookbooks fit right into that flow. They’re the ones I reach for when I want something nourishing but unfussy—meals built around what’s in season, and designed to be shared, taken outside, or pulled together at the last minute.

If you’re looking for inspiration, these are my go-to healthy cookbooks for summer cooking—the ones that make eating well feel effortless, seasonal, and genuinely exciting.

What Makes a Great Healthy Summer Cookbook?

Not all “healthy” cookbooks feel right for summer. The ones I come back to this time of year have a few things in common:

• They follow the season. Recipes are built around peak produce—tomatoes, herbs, stone fruit, all the things that taste best right now.
• They keep things simple. Minimal prep, fewer steps, and meals that come together without overthinking it.
• They lean plant-forward (without being rigid). Vegetables take center stage, but there’s flexibility to cook how you want.
• They’re made for real life. Quick lunches, easy dinners, and dishes you can pull together for a last-minute gathering.
• They make you want to cook. This might be the most important one—books that feel inspiring, not prescriptive.

For me, the best healthy summer cookbooks inspire me to eat in a way that feels lighter, more intuitive, and a little more connected to the season.

13 Healthy Summer Cookbooks That Inspire Lighter, Brighter Cooking

Samin Nosrat

Good Things

$45 at Anthropologie

Alison Roman

Something from Nothing

$38 at Anthropologie

Nichole Accettola

Scandinavian Everyday

$28 at Bookshop.org

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Good Things: Recipes and Rituals to Share by Samin Nosrat

Samin Nosrat makes cooking feel both intuitive and joyful, and this book leans into that spirit even more. It’s less about strict recipes and more about the rituals and rhythms that bring people to the table—something that feels especially aligned with slower, more intentional summer cooking.

The dishes are simple, seasonal, and deeply satisfying, with an emphasis on flavor and balance over perfection. It’s the kind of book you reach for when you want to cook something that feels good—uncomplicated, generous, and meant to be shared.

Best for: Relaxed, seasonal cooking that centers connection

Something from Nothing by Alison Roman

Alison Roman’s approach to cooking is all about making the most of what you have (and making it taste really, really good). This book is built around that idea, with recipes that transform simple ingredients into meals that feel thoughtful without requiring much effort.

It’s especially useful in the summer, when a handful of peak ingredients can do most of the work. Think unfussy dishes, bold flavors, and just enough edge to keep things interesting.

It’s not about “healthy” in a rigid sense, but it absolutely delivers on feel-good, ingredient-driven cooking that fits right into a lighter, more seasonal way of eating.

Best for: Turning simple, seasonal ingredients into craveable meals

Scandinavian Everyday: Vibrant, Simple Meals from Northern Europe by Nichole Accettola

This is one of those cookbooks that instantly transports you. Nichole Accettola brings a fresh, modern take on Scandinavian cooking—one that feels incredibly aligned with healthy summer meals: simple, seasonal, and deeply nourishing.

The recipes are built around whole ingredients and thoughtful combinations, from grain bowls and bright salads to cozy soups and not-too-sweet desserts. Everything feels clean and balanced, but never austere.

There’s a warmth to the way she writes and cooks that makes you want to settle in and try something new.

Accettola, the IACP award–winning chef behind Kantine, makes even the most unfamiliar dishes feel approachable. It’s a book I reach for when I want something a little different, but still easy, seasonal, and grounded in feel-good ingredients.

Best for: Bright, seasonal meals that feel both fresh and transportive

Jess Damuck

Salad Freak

$33 at Bookshop.org

Anna Jones

One Pot, Pan, Planet

$33 at Bookshop.org

Charity Morgan

Unbelievably Vegan

$38 at Bookshop.org

Liz Moody

Healthier Together

$23 at Bookshop.org

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Salad Freak: Recipes to Feed a Healthy Obsession by Jess Damuck

If there’s one book that captures the spirit of healthy summer cooking, it’s this one. Salad Freak makes a strong case for putting vegetables at the center of the table—and actually being excited about it.

The recipes are vibrant, texture-driven, and deeply satisfying, proving that salads can be far more than an afterthought. Damuck leans into seasonal produce, building each dish around what’s fresh and at its peak, with plenty of unexpected details (think frizzled shallots, chili crisp, and her signature layered approach).

It’s equal parts inspiration and instruction—a cookbook that doesn’t just tell you to eat more vegetables, but makes you crave them.

Best for: Turning peak summer produce into actually-exciting meals

One: Pot, Pan, Planet by Anna Jones

Anna Jones has long been known as the “Queen of Greens,” and this book is a masterclass in making plant-forward, feel-good meals that don’t sacrifice flavor for simplicity. The premise is refreshingly practical: fewer dishes, less waste, and recipes that come together with ease—exactly what I want from a healthy cookbook for everyday cooking.

Everything is rooted in seasonal produce and thoughtful sourcing, with an emphasis on sustainability that feels inspiring, not overwhelming. The recipes strike that perfect balance between comforting and fresh—think Saag Aloo Shepherd’s Pie or Carrot & Sesame Pancakes, each one offering a familiar flavor with a lighter, more modern twist.

It’s the kind of book that shifts how you cook—more vegetables, less fuss, and meals that feel as good to make as they do to eat.

Best for: Low-effort, plant-forward dinners with minimal cleanup

Unbelievably Vegan: 100+ Life-Changing, Plant-Based Recipes by Charity Morgan

If you’ve ever been curious about plant-based cooking but didn’t know where to start, this is the book I’d hand you. Charity Morgan makes it feel approachable from the very first page: no strict rules, no sense of restriction, just really good food that happens to be vegan.

Her “plegan” philosophy (plant-based, but flexible) comes through in recipes that are as comforting as they are nourishing. Many are inspired by her Puerto Rican and Creole roots, bringing bold flavor to dishes like smoky jambalaya, cheezy grits bowls, and satisfying lentil-based mains.

It’s the kind of healthy cookbook that shifts your habits—less about what you’re cutting out, more about what you’re excited to make.

Best for: Comfort food favorites reimagined with a plant-based twist

Healthier Together: Recipes for Two—Nourish Your Body, Nourish Your Relationships by Liz Moody

Liz Moody’s approach to healthy eating is refreshingly grounded: it should feel good, taste good, and be something you actually want to stick with. This book grew out of cooking for two, but its real strength is how it reframes healthy cooking as something shared. Think less about rules and more about building habits that last.

The recipes strike that balance between nourishing and craveable, with plenty of vegetable-forward dishes alongside lighter takes on comfort classics. (Her General Tso’s cauliflower and better-for-you chocolate chip cookies are on repeat in my kitchen.) It’s a reminder that eating well doesn’t have to be a solo pursuit—it can be one of the easiest, most enjoyable ways to connect.

Best for: Simple, feel-good meals that are even better when shared

Jeanine Donofrio

Love & Lemons Everyday

$34 at Bookshop.org

Allison Day

Modern Lunch

$24 at Bookshop.org

Carla Lalli Music

Where Cooking Begins

$30 at Bookshop.org

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Love & Lemons Every Day by Jeanine Donofrio

Jeanine Donofrio has a gift for making vegetables feel anything but routine. This book is packed with bright, imaginative recipes that work just as well for quick weeknight dinners as they do for slower weekend cooking.

What I love most is how she rethinks everyday produce. Donofrio transforms veggies into something unexpected, whether that’s cauliflower steaks with lemon salsa verde, a cozy rutabaga walnut ragu, or even a chocolate cake with sweet potato frosting. It’s equal parts practical and creative, with plenty of ideas for using up scraps and making the most of what you already have on hand.

If you’re looking to bring more variety into your healthy summer cooking, this is one you’ll come back to often.

Best for: Creative, veggie-forward meals that keep things interesting

Modern Lunch: 100 Recipes for Assembling the New Midday Meal by Allison Day

I will never be someone who forgets to eat lunch. It’s easily my favorite meal of the day! This book makes it feel like something worth looking forward to.

Allison Day rethinks the midday meal with recipes that are fresh, satisfying, and easy to pull together or pack on the go. Chicken and cucumber ribbon salad with peanut butter vinaigrette or walnut-crusted avocado with feta and eggs over pesto rice. These are meals that feel elevated, but never complicated.

It’s a go-to when I want something that’s both nourishing and energizing, especially during the warmer months when lighter, produce-forward meals just make sense.

Best for: Upgrading your lunch routine with fresh, packable meals.

Where Cooking Begins: Uncomplicated Recipes to Make You a Great Cook by Carla Lalli Music

Carla Lalli Music’s approach to cooking is exactly what I want in a busy season: unfussy, ingredient-driven, and full of flavor. She has a way of stripping recipes down to what actually matters. There are no extra steps and no overcomplication—just techniques that make sense and food that delivers.

What I love most is how intuitive it feels. This is the kind of book that teaches you how to cook, not just what to cook. It covers how to work with what’s in your kitchen, lean on pantry staples, and build meals around what’s fresh and in season.

This book is a go-to when I want to feel a little more confident and a lot less rigid in the kitchen.

Best for: Building confidence and cooking more intuitively with what you have

Tracy Pollan

Mostly Plants

$30 at Bookshop.org

Mark Bittman

Dinner for Everyone

$37 at Bookshop.org

Sarah Copeland

Every Day is Saturday

$10 at Bookshop.org

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Mostly Plants: 101 Delicious Flexitarian Recipes from the Pollan Family by Tracy Pollan

The Pollan family’s approach to eating well is one I come back to again and again: focus on plants, keep things flexible, and don’t overcomplicate it. This book brings that philosophy to life in a way that feels realistic—especially if you’re cooking for a mix of preferences at the table.

You’re not asked to overhaul your diet. These recipes simply shift the balance. Vegetables take center stage, with satisfying, approachable dishes that still leave room for flexibility when you want it.

It’s an easy entry point into more plant-forward cooking, especially in the summer months when produce is at its peak and meals can be simple, fresh, and shared.

Best for: Flexible, family-friendly meals that make eating more plants feel effortless

Dinner for Everyone: 100 Iconic Dishes Made 3 Ways—Easy, Vegan, or Perfect for Company by Mark Bittman

If you’ve ever tried to cook for a group with different preferences, you know how quickly it can get complicated. Mark Bittman solves that with a simple, brilliant idea: every recipe comes with three variations. One straightforward, one plant-based, and one that’s a little more elevated for entertaining.

The result is a cookbook that’s incredibly useful in real life. You can make one dish and adapt it depending on who’s at the table, without starting from scratch or making multiple meals.

It’s grounded in fresh ingredients and approachable techniques, making it an easy fit for everyday cooking. Especially in the summer, when meals tend to be more relaxed and shared.

Best for: Cooking one meal that works for everyone at the table

Every Day is Saturday: Recipes + Strategies for Easy Cooking, Every Day of the Week by Sarah Copeland

This cookbook makes you want to slow down and enjoy the everyday a little more. Sarah Copeland builds her recipes around the idea that good food doesn’t have to wait for the weekend. It can be simple, seasonal, and special any night of the week.

The dishes strike that balance beautifully, from Moroccan tomato toast to raspberry ripple ice cream cake. They’re approachable enough for a weeknight, but with just enough flair to make it feel intentional.

It’s all about creating small moments around the table, which feels especially right during the summer months when meals tend to stretch a little longer.

Best for: Bringing a slower, more intentional feel to everyday meals

This post was last updated on May 16, 2026, to include new insights.

The post What I Cook From When I Want to Feel Good All Summer appeared first on Camille Styles.

Make an elevated rhubarb crisp recipe infused with rose water and warm spices and finished with a nutty, crumbly topping!

The post Rhubarb Crisp appeared first on Maureen Abood.

Every summer there are certain garden crops that produce in abundance. Cucumbers are one of those. Even if you don’t grow them yourself, they’re widely available at stores and farmers markets. These simple cucumber sandwiches are a creamy and fresh way to enjoy cucumbers! Often served at tea parties as finger food, cucumber tea sandwiches […]

Continue reading Cucumber Sandwich Bites (Grain-Free Options)...

There’s a particular kind of afternoon that I want to bottle up and remember forever. The kind where nobody is looking at their phones, the wine glasses keep getting refilled, and somehow two hours pass, and no one has moved from the table. That’s how I remember the day that Camilla Marcus joined a group of friends and me for lunch in my backyard to celebrate the launch of her cookbook, My Regenerative Kitchen.

We’d been trying to make it happen for weeks, and when it finally came together on a warm spring day, the afternoon delivered everything we’d imagined. We set big platters of food on the table outside, served everything family-style, and lingered in that easy, unhurried way that only happens when the food is simple and the company is everything.

The menu tasted like spring. Chilled pea gazpacho passed around in little bowls. A fennel salad. Rose dark chocolate bark for dessert with coffee. Natural wine and sparkling water. And these tartines, which were the thing everyone kept talking about afterward.

The Chef Behind the Recipe

If you’re not familiar with Camilla Marcus, she’s one of those cooks who makes everything feel both effortless and considered. Her approach to cooking is easygoing and intuitive, grounded in a deep appreciation for seasonality and the farmers who grow the food. She’s also the founder of west~bourne, her direct-to-consumer brand making feel-good provisions inspired by California’s bounty. I’d known Camilla for a few years and am always excited for a chance to cook together—and these tartines perfectly represent the way she thinks about a meal.

The recipe comes from her cookbook, My Regenerative Kitchen, and her description of them is perfect: the ultimate chef snack. Equal parts creamy and crunchy with peak-season ingredients. No rules, and absolutely no fuss.

Canyon “Essentials” Dinnerware, Set of 12

$385 at Casa Zuma

Cocina Salt & Spice Tray

$249 at Casa Zuma

The Sunday Salad Set

$248 at Casa Zuma

What Elevates This Tartine Recipe

When it comes to food that’s this simple, the beauty’s in the restraint. The last thing we want to do is complicate something where every element is so good it earns its place. That means the bread matters (thick-cut, from a good bakery, fried in avocado oil until golden and crisp). The tomato is key (find the best heirloom you can get your hands on). And the blue cheese—frozen and shaved thin so it melts into lacy ribbons over the warm bread—is the secret ingredient that takes this to another level.

The roasted beet tartine—yogurt or crème fraîche spread thick, golden beets layered on top, finished with toasted pepitas—has slightly more surprising ingredients. Beets and crème fraîche are a combination I knew I loved, but something about the contrast with the crisp fried bread made it feel completely new. Cool and creamy against all that crunch.

The Salt Ritual

$78 at Casa Zuma

A Few Tips for Success

Serve these as a starter, a lunch, or, honestly, the sort of snack that becomes the whole meal because you can’t stop eating them. They’re best when the tomatoes are at their peak, so definitely keep these top of mind as we head into the summer months.

We made these in a large cast-iron pan and kept them coming in batches. (You won’t believe how much the simple touch of frying the bread elevates these tartines.) And keep in mind Camilla’s more-is-more rule when it comes to the crème fraîche. It keeps these tartines feeling absolutely indulgent.

If you’re building a spring lunch around these, the pea gazpacho and a simple fennel salad round it out perfectly. Add a bottle of something cold and pink, clear your afternoon, and linger as long as you possibly can.

This recipe is from Camilla Marcus’ cookbook, My Regenerative Kitchen.

Tartines with Heirloom Tomato, Blue Cheese, and Golden Beets

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★★★★★

5 from 1 review

• Author: Camilla Marcus
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings

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Description

Chef Camilla Marcus’ tartine recipe from My Regenerative Kitchen — fried bread, heirloom tomato, blue cheese, golden beets. Simple, seasonal, and worth every bite.

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Ingredients

Units USM

• 2 slices thick-cut bread (a simple country loaf or brioche works beautifully)
• 4 tablespoons avocado oil, plus more to garnish
• Maldon salt and fresh cracked pepper
• 1 heirloom tomato, sliced
• 6 slices blue cheese, frozen to firm up, then shaved
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup sheep’s milk yogurt or crème fraîche
• 6 slices roasted golden beets
• 1 tablespoon toasted pepitas

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Instructions

1. Drizzle a cast iron skillet with enough avocado oil to coat the bottom, and get it hot over medium-high heat. Fry the bread evenly on each side, moving it around and flipping as you go, until nicely crisped and golden brown all over. Remove from the pan and drain on a rack or kitchen towel — hit it with a pinch of Maldon salt immediately while still piping hot.
2. On one slice, layer the tomato slices, then top with the shaved blue cheese and finish with a drizzle of avocado oil, Maldon salt, and cracked pepper.
3. On the other slice, spread the yogurt or crème fraîche in a generous layer, top with the sliced golden beets, and garnish with the toasted pepitas. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve immediately, while the bread is still warm.

• Prep Time: 10
• Cook Time: 5
• Category: sandwich

Keywords: tartine

The post This Tartine Recipe Is Peak Spring on a Plate appeared first on Camille Styles.

If you’ve been looking for easy ways to add more protein to your desserts without giving up the treats you love, this collection is for you. These 12 high-protein cottage cheese desserts are the kind of recipes I keep coming back to because they’re simple, satisfying, and honestly just really good.

Cottage cheese might sound unexpected in desserts, but it blends beautifully into batters, cheesecakes, fillings, and even chocolate treats. It adds a creamy texture and extra protein while keeping everything soft, rich, and delicious. You’d never guess some of these recipes start with cottage cheese.

Inside this collection, you’ll find everything from chocolate cottage cheese cheesecake and lemon cheesecake bars to cottage cheese brownies, chocolate fudge, coconut truffles, muffins, waffles, cinnamon rolls, crème brûlée, and even chocolate chip cookies. Some recipes are rich and indulgent, while others are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

What I love most about these desserts is that they are healthier, lower in calories, most of them with no refined sugar, while still tasting like real treats. They’re easy enough for everyday baking and great for anyone trying to add more protein to their meals in a simple, homemade way.

Chocolate Cottage Cheese Cheesecake

This Chocolate Cottage Cheese Cheesecake is one of those recipes I keep coming back to. It’s simple, creamy, and feels lighter than a classic cheesecake, while still being completely satisfying. I love how everyday ingredients like cottage cheese and Greek yogurt come together to create something that tastes indulgent without being heavy.

Check out this recipe

Cottage Cheese Coconut Truffles – No-Bake, High-Protein, Refined Sugar-Free

These Cottage Cheese Coconut Truffles are creamy, no-bake bites made with blended cottage cheese, coconut, and honey for a naturally sweet, high-protein treat. They come together in minutes and are perfect as a quick snack, a healthier dessert, or even a little energy bite to keep in the fridge.

Check out this recipe

Cottage Cheese Brownies – Healthy, Gluten-Free, No Refined Sugar, No Butter

If you’re looking for a lighter brownie that still tastes rich and chocolatey, these Cottage Cheese Brownies are such a great option. I wanted something chocolatey and satisfying, but made with better-for-you ingredients, and these check all the boxes. They’re naturally gluten-free (thanks to oat flour), made with no refined sugar, and there’s no butter or oil involved. Instead, applesauce keeps them soft and moist while cutting down on fat and calories.

Check out this recipe

Easy Lemon Cottage Cheese Cake – No Refined Sugar

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels light yet satisfying, this Easy Lemon Cottage Cheese Cake might become a new favorite in your kitchen. It’s soft, slightly creamy, and has that fresh lemon flavor that makes every bite feel bright and uplifting. What I love most is how simple it is to put together, no complicated steps, just basic ingredients and a little mixing.

Check out this recipe

Cottage Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies – Healthy, Low-Calorie and No Refined Sugar

These Cottage Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies are one of those recipes that surprise you in the best way. When I first heard about making cookie dough with cottage cheese, I wasn’t completely convinced. But after trying it, I was amazed at how soft, tender, and satisfying the cookies turned out.

Check out this recipe

Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Rolls- Easy, Quick, No-Yeast 

These Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Rolls are one of those happy kitchen surprise, soft, swirly, and incredibly satisfying, yet made with simple everyday ingredients. I love that they come together without yeast, without long rising times, and without any complicated steps. Just mix, roll, fill, bake… and your kitchen smells like pure comfort.

Check out this recipe

Cottage Cheese Hot Chocolate – Healthy, High-Protein, Thick and Creamy

This Cottage Cheese Hot Chocolate is my new favorite way to turn a cozy classic into something a little more nourishing, without sacrificing comfort. It’s rich, thick, and incredibly smooth, yet made with just a few simple ingredients you probably already have: cocoa powder, honey, milk, and cottage cheese. No starch, no complicated steps, and no strange additives.

Check out this recipe

Cottage Cheese Crème Brûlée 

This Cottage Cheese Crème Brûlée is my lighter, protein-packed twist on the classic dessert, and honestly, it’s amazing. Using cottage cheese instead of heavy cream makes the custard rich and satisfying, but without feeling too heavy. Plus, you get a little protein boost, so it feels a bit healthier while still totally indulgent.

Check out this recipe

Lemon Cottage Cheese Cheesecake Bars – Light, No Refined Sugar, High-Protein

These Lemon Cottage Cheese Cheesecake Bars are one of those desserts that completely surprised me in the best way. They’re bright, creamy, lightly tangy, and wonderfully fresh — the kind of treat that feels indulgent but still light enough to enjoy any day of the week.

Check out this recipe

Healthy Cottage Cheese Chocolate Fudge – Guilt-Free, No-Bake, Gluten-Free

I have to tell you about this cottage cheese chocolate fudge because I’m honestly a little obsessed with it. It is a creamy, guilt-free, no-bake chocolate treat made with cottage cheese for a lighter, healthier twist.

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High-Protein Cottage Cheese and Greek Yogurt Waffles

Start your day strong with these High-Protein Cottage Cheese and Greek Yogurt Waffles! They’re soft, fluffy, and packed with protein to keep you full and energized all morning. Combining creamy cottage cheese and tangy Greek yogurt gives these waffles a rich, moist texture.

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Strawberry Cottage Cheese Muffins

There’s something incredibly comforting about a soft, fruity muffin. These Strawberry Cottage Cheese Muffins are a lovely balance of wholesome and indulgent. The cottage cheese might seem like an unexpected ingredient, but it gives the muffins a tender crumb, subtle richness, and a protein boost without tasting "cheesy" at all. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack with tea.

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I hope you enjoy these cottage cheese desserts and make them whenever you need something healthy, high-protein, easy and delicious.

If you try any of these recipes, I’d love to see. Share your photos on  Instagram and tag me so I can admire your beautiful creations!

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The post 12 High-Protein Cottage Cheese Desserts appeared first on Home Cooking Adventure.

If you’ve ever wondered why you can eat a “healthy” breakfast and still feel starving by 10 AM—or why your energy tanks every afternoon like clockwork—there’s a good chance it comes down to what’s on your plate. Too many carbs (without enough protein and fat!), skipping meals, or relying on snacks are your blood sugar’s worst nightmare. As a nutrition consultant, this is one of the first things I work on with clients, because once you understand blood sugar (a.k.a. blood glucose), so many of those frustrating symptoms start to click into place.

In this guide, we’re covering the basics of blood sugar, why it matters for hormone balance and overall health (especially for women), and a full blood sugar balancing meal plan you can start this week.

Beginner’s Guide to Blood Sugar

Without knowing exactly what it means, you’ve probably heard of the term. Blood sugar plays a role in energy, emotions, cognitive function, hormonal health, sleep, and more. You may already be familiar with spikes and dips in blood sugar. Hello, hanger! That said, few recognize its effects daily. In essence, blood sugar is the amount of sugar (or glucose) in your blood at any given time. And it’s produced when we break down carbohydrates. Be it a slice of cake or a piece of toast, that carb is absorbed into our bloodstream. Immediately or eventually, it’s used as a source of energy.

How Does Blood Sugar Work?

Here’s the best way to visualize and think about blood sugar:

1. You eat food. Let’s assume you ate a balanced combination of carbohydrates, protein, and fat. Your digestion breaks down your food. Carbs get broken down into glucose. This is your body and your brain’s primary source of preferred energy.

2. Blood sugar levels rise. Glucose enters your bloodstream, and blood sugar levels naturally increase. How much they increase is dependent largely on the macronutrient breakdown of the meal. More carbs = higher blood sugar. More protein + fat = lower blood sugar spike.

3. Insulin is released. As soon as your body senses the rise in blood sugar, your pancreas releases insulin. Insulin is an important hormone involved in managing blood sugar levels. We want not too much, but also not too little.

4. Blood sugar lowers. Insulin acts as the key that opens your cells and transports glucose from the bloodstream into cells. Glucose is either used immediately for energy or stored for later use. Insulin is what keeps blood sugar from getting too high.

The Goal: A Gradual Rise in Blood Sugar

The goal is to have a gradual rise in blood sugar levels after we eat, and a slow and steady decline in the hours after. We want to avoid large increases in our blood sugar. Why? Because they lead to a very drastic and significant decrease. In other words, it’s not just about high blood sugar levels. We want to minimize low blood sugar levels and crashes, too.

Finding a Happy Medium

Just like cortisol and inflammation aren’t inherently bad (in fact, they’re vital for keeping us alive!), the same goes for blood sugar. Glucose also isn’t the enemy, and neither is insulin. Ultimately, it’s a matter of eating in a way that keeps glucose and insulin at a happy medium. We’re not avoiding carbs and sugar altogether. Rather, it’s about maintaining a healthy balance and honoring the foods that make us feel our best.

How to Achieve Steady Blood Sugar

Large spikes lead to equally dramatic crashes, and those crashes are what trigger the cycle of cravings, fatigue, and overeating that so many women find themselves stuck in. Here’s where to start.

Pair Protein + Fiber at Every Meal

This is the single most impactful change you can make. Protein slows digestion and blunts glucose spikes, while fiber acts as a buffer—slowing the rate at which sugar enters your bloodstream. A breakfast of just toast and juice will spike blood sugar fast, but add eggs and a side of sautéed greens and the response looks completely different. Aim for at least 25-30 grams of protein and a solid serving of fiber-rich veggies or whole grains at each meal.

Take a 10-15 Minute Walk After Eating

This one is free, easy, and backed by a growing body of research. Walking after meals helps your muscles use glucose for energy, which lowers your post-meal blood sugar response. You don’t need to power walk or break a sweat; a casual stroll around the block or even pacing while you take a phone call works.

Prioritize 7-9 Hours of Sleep

Sleep and blood sugar have a bidirectional relationship: poor sleep worsens blood sugar regulation, and unstable blood sugar disrupts sleep. Even a single night of inadequate rest can decrease insulin sensitivity the following day, meaning your body needs more insulin to do the same job. If you’re doing everything right with food and movement but skimping on sleep, you’re undermining your own progress.

Manage Your Stress

This is the underrated one. Most people don’t realize that stress raises blood sugar even if you haven’t eaten anything. When cortisol is elevated, your liver releases stored glucose into your bloodstream to prepare for a perceived threat. Chronic stress means chronically elevated blood sugar—no food required. Everything from deep breathing to building buffers in your schedule isn’t just a nice-to-have. They’re a metabolic tool.

What Causes Blood Sugar Imbalance?

Along with the aforementioned habits, you also want to avoid inconsistent meal times. Not eating enough or not eating consistently (every 3-4 hours, ideally) can both be highly stressful to the body. For this reason, I don’t recommend intermittent fasting for most women! Interestingly, both an overly sedentary lifestyle and working out too much will impact blood sugar levels. Again, it’s stressful on the body. Last but not least, gut dysbiosis (think bloating, etc.) will also negatively impact glucose levels.

Foods That Help Balance Blood Sugar

While there are many foods that help lower and regulate blood sugar, these are some of the best! They cause minimal blood sugar spikes, support sustained energy, and aid in fullness:

• Animal protein sources (eggs, chicken, turkey, salmon, sardines, grass-fed beef, shrimp, bone broth, etc.)
• Plant-based protein sources (tempeh, tofu, edamame, hemp seeds, spirulina, etc.)
• Plain Greek yogurt
• Darky leafy greens
• Non-starchy veggies (tomatoes, summer squash, zucchini, mushrooms, etc.)
• Celery and cucumber
• Cruciferous veggies (Brussels sprouts, broccoli, etc.)
• Berries
• Cottage cheese
• Avocados
• Nuts
• Seeds
• Olives
• Beams
• Legumes
• Kimchi
• Sauerkraut
• Cinnamon
• Apple cider vinegar

Your 5-Day Blood Sugar Balancing Meal Plan

This is a flexible framework, not a rigid prescription. Feel free to repeat your favorite meals, swap proteins based on preference, and adjust portions to your hunger and activity level. The through-line: every meal and snack pairs protein + fat + fiber-rich carbs to keep blood sugar steady.

Day 1

Breakfast: Two-egg veggie scramble with sautéed spinach, bell peppers, and a quarter avocado. Serve with a slice of sprouted grain toast.

Snack: A handful of almonds + a few slices of green apple.

Lunch: Large mixed greens salad with grilled chicken (5-6 ounces), cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, pumpkin seeds, and olive oil + lemon dressing. Side of quinoa.

Snack: Celery sticks with 2 tablespoons of almond butter.

Dinner: Baked salmon (5-6 ounces) with roasted broccoli and sweet potato wedges drizzled with olive oil.

Day 2

Breakfast: Overnight oats made with rolled oats, chia seeds, unsweetened almond milk, a scoop of protein powder, and topped with berries and a drizzle of almond butter.

Snack: Hard-boiled egg + a small handful of walnuts.

Lunch: Turkey and avocado lettuce wraps with shredded carrots, cucumber, and a side of hummus with sliced bell peppers.

Snack: Full-fat Greek yogurt with a sprinkle of ground flax and a few raspberries.

Dinner: Grass-fed beef stir-fry with broccoli, snap peas, mushrooms, and cauliflower rice. Season with coconut aminos and ginger.

Day 3

Breakfast: Strawberry matcha smoothie with a scoop of vanilla protein powder (or collagen peptides) added in.

Snack: Sliced turkey rolled around a cheese stick.

Lunch: Lentil soup loaded with carrots, celery, and kale. Serve with a side salad dressed in olive oil and apple cider vinegar.

Snack: A handful of walnuts + blackberries.

Dinner: Grilled chicken thighs served alongside roasted Brussels sprouts and a small portion of brown rice.

Day 4

Breakfast: Two-egg omelet with goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil. Side of sautéed greens.

Snack: A pear with a small handful of cashews.

Lunch: Grain bowl with quinoa, black beans, grilled chicken or tempeh, roasted sweet potato, pickled red onion, cilantro, and tahini dressing.

Snack: Veggies and guacamole.

Dinner: Slow-roasted cod, baked sweet potatoes, and grilled asparagus.

Day 5

Breakfast: Chia pudding made with full-fat coconut milk, topped with hemp seeds, sliced almonds, and a handful of blueberries.

Snack: Cottage cheese with cucumber slices and everything bagel seasoning.

Lunch: Large salad with mixed greens, canned wild salmon, avocado, cherry tomatoes, sunflower seeds, and a lemon-tahini dressing.

Snack: An apple with a spoonful of no-sugar-added peanut butter.

Dinner: Turkey meatballs with marinara (no added sugar) over zucchini noodles, with a side of roasted cauliflower.

Tips to Make This Meal Plan Work for You

• Eat within an hour of waking. Starting your day with a protein-forward breakfast sets the tone for stable blood sugar all day. Skipping breakfast means running on cortisol—and playing catch-up by lunch.
• Pay attention to eating order. When you do eat carbs, try eating your veggies and protein first. This simple swap can blunt the blood sugar spike from the same exact meal.
• Pair, don’t restrict. The goal isn’t to eliminate carbs; it’s to always pair them with protein, fat, or fiber. An apple by itself will spike blood sugar more than an apple with almond butter.
• Meal prep is your friend. You don’t need to spend a whole Sunday in the kitchen. Even prepping a few basics (hard-boiled eggs, a batch of quinoa, washed and chopped veggies, etc.) makes it so much easier to throw together balanced meals during a busy week.
• Move after meals. Even a 10-15 minute walk after eating can significantly reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes. It doesn’t need to be intense, just get moving!
• Hydrate. Dehydration can actually concentrate blood sugar levels. Aim for at least half your body weight in ounces of water daily.

If you’re ready to go deeper—beyond just blood sugar and into the full picture of how to eat, train, and build a body that actually feels strong—my Strong(er) Body Blueprint covers everything from protein targets and progressive overload to the metabolic habits that keep blood sugar balanced for the long haul.

Edie Horstman

Edie is the founder of nutrition coaching business, Wellness with Edie. With her background and expertise, she specializes in women’s health, including fertility, hormone balance, and postpartum wellness.

This post was last updated on May 11, 2026, to include new insights.

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