Celebrate the season with recipes from my cookbooks. Celebrate the season with recipes from The How Not to Die Cookbook …

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3 Healthy, Easy Recipes: Appetizer, Pasta, and Dessert

Eating healthy doesn’t have to be complicated or boring. Here are three simple recipes for an appetizer, a pasta dish, and a dessert that are both nutritious and delicious!

Appetizer: Roasted Chickpeas

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare Chickpeas: Spread the chickpeas on a baking sheet and pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. Season: In a bowl, toss the chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast: Spread the seasoned chickpeas back on the baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 25-30 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through, until crispy.
5. Serve: Let cool slightly and enjoy as a crunchy appetizer!

Main Course: Spinach and Tomato Whole Wheat Pasta

Ingredients:

• 8 oz whole wheat pasta (e.g., spaghetti or penne)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook Pasta: Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Spinach and Tomatoes: Stir in the spinach and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.
4. Combine: Add the pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If it’s too dry, add some reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle with grated Parmesan, if desired.

Dessert: Greek Yogurt Parfait

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Greek yogurt (plain or flavored)
• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• ½ cup granola
• Honey or maple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. Layer Ingredients: In serving glasses or bowls, start with a layer of Greek yogurt at the bottom.
2. Add Berries: Top the yogurt with a layer of mixed berries followed by a layer of granola.
3. Repeat: Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled, ending with berries on top.
4. Drizzle: If desired, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup on top for added sweetness.
5. Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for a refreshing dessert later!

These three recipes are not only healthy but also quick to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your cooking!