Happy almost New Year!
My favorite part about New Years is not the parties, not the champagne, not the appetizers, not even the Times Square Ball or twinkly lights.
My favorite part is looking back and looking forward. Looking back at the best of everything, the craziest trends, the biggest moments and discoveries; and looking forward to new goals, new hopes, and all the unbelievable new innovations that will soon change the world. (Check out Cleveland Clinic’s awesome list of new medical innovations to expect in 2017, and Today’s intriguing list of health food trends that will likely bloom in the coming year.)
But first I want to highlight the BEST of 2016 here at MAK and Her Cheese! These are the top 10 recipes as decided by viewers, and I’ve also tacked on 6 of my favorites that I just couldn’t help but include.
Thanks for making this an AMAZING year of food, and let me know what you want to see more of next year!
This is without a doubt my ALL-TIME FAVORITE chile recipe. It is hearty, comforting, and loaded with flavor. Perfect for leftovers on busy weeknights, too!
If you think that oatmeal can only be sweet, you NEED this recipe. It’s quick, extremely satisfying, creamy and delicious, and really the ultimate combo to power you through the day!
8. Triple Chocolate Cheesecake
A rich, decadent, chocolatey dessert that’s guilt-free! It’s made with simple ingredients (no secrets!), can be easily made in a pie pan, and tastes like creamy chocolate-lover’s heaven.
This instantly became a family favorite, and for good reason! Mouthwatering seafood, loads of scrumptious veggies, and INCREDIBLE Spanish flavors. It’s elegant enough for special occasions, but quick and easy enough for busy weeknights–one pan and ready in under an hour!
6. Healthy Banana Chocolate Chunk Cookies
Soft-baked cookies that are HEALTHY, super easy, and packed with hunks of melty chocolate? Count me in!
5. Healthy One-Minute Chocolate Cake with Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting
I swear by this chocolate cake–it’s one of my favorite desserts to date. No joke. Moist and fluffy chocolate cake with the easiest warm and melty chocolate frosting you will ever make. Just mix it up and you have a guilt-free chocolate cake for one in ONE MINUTE!
4. Pomodoro Meatballs over Parmesan Polenta
Tender, succulent chicken meatballs cook right in with the flavorful veggie-loaded sauce, and a bed of creamy, cheesy polenta soaks up all the juices. An impressive, mouthwatering, and healthy dinner that’s easy to make from scratch!
3. Double Chocolate Healthy Brownies
Melted dark chocolate adds richness, while nonfat Greek yogurt keeps them light and moist. My favorite go-to brownie recipe!
2. Maple Cinnamon Apple Whipped Banana Oatmeal
SOOO much goodness in this hearty bowl. Sweet ripe banana makes the oats ultra fluffy; apples quickly sautéed with warm spices and lightly tossed in maple syrup brings out ultimate fall deliciousness; and a drizzle of melty peanut butter brings the whole thing home. A regular in my breakfast rotation!
1. Balsamic Gouda Chicken Quesadilla
This is actually a recipe that I’ve been making for several years, and I’m thrilled to see that it’s still going strong in 2016! Amping up the classic on so many levels–juicy balsamic mushrooms, succulent pulled chicken, savory herbs de Provence, flavor-packed sun-dried tomatoes, tender spinach and onion, and oh so smokey gouda. A must-try!
Special Mention
Now for six additional recipes that I’ve been particularly excited about this year…
6. Creamy Spinach, Artichoke, and Sun-Dried Tomato Penne
The secret to easy, healthy, rich and creamy pasta revealed! After making this recipe, I’m hooked on this simple method for making creamy, cheesy sauces. On top of that, the flavors in this satisfying bowl are mind-blowing.
I can’t say this recipe is specific to 2016, but I can say it played a major role in my dinners throughout the year–quick, wholesome comfort food at its finest.
4. Biscoff Cookie Crumble Cheesecake
I can’t help but bring up this gem again! The ultimate decadent holiday treat, lightened up (but who would know??).
3. Frittata
Another huge player in my 2016 dinner rotation. This method will lead to TONS of delicious possibilities, and leftovers are life-savers. I’m certainly hooked!
Oh my flippin’ yum. Thick, tender, and juicy king salmon marinated in a sweet-salty-umami mix that reduces into THE MOST DELICIOUS SAUCE EVER. Go try it NOW.
1. Spinach Artichoke Twice-Baked Potatoes
Creamy, rich (yet lightened up) potato filling with tender mushrooms, spinach, and artichokes, savory herbs, and smoky cheeses, all inside a crisp potato skin and topped with lean bacon. A side dish worthy of a Christmas feast or romantic Valentine’s dinner. (But to be honest, I make these for myself all the time!)
Thanks again and best wishes for the New Year!