Beef Crostini with Horseradish Cream

Enjoy this Beef Crostini appetizer topped with a creamy horseradish spread the next time you host a party or just want a light, delicious dinner. 

beef crostini appetizer made with steak and a horseradish spread on a thin sliced fresh baguette

Doesn’t the word crostini just sound fancy? If you didn’t know what it was and saw it on a menu, you would probably wonder what that fancy-sounding appetizer was. 

Today I am going to show you how easy it is to make steak crostinis with a delicious creamy horseradish spread that is going to keep you and your guests coming back for more! Even though people love making these for cocktail parties and special occasions, they are also a great lunch idea! 

Although these crostinis sure are tasty, they are healthy too! 

When compared to other ingredients that people consider high protein such as quinoa, peanut butter, black beans, and edamame, a 3 ounce serving of beef contains the same amount of protein but with fewer calories. 

It’s also full of other great nutrients like iron to help the body use oxygen, choline which has been shown to help support nervous system development, and selenium to help prevent cell damage. 

Beef Crostini Ingredients 

Beef – rib cap, skirt, or flank steak

shallots, thinly sliced

olive oil 

salt

balsamic vinegar

French baguette

Chives for garnish

For the Marinade: 

Worcestershire sauce

balsamic vinegar

olive oil

Dijon mustard

maple syrup

Salt and black pepper

For the Horseradish Spread:

horseradish (not horseradish sauce)

plain Greek yogurt

cream cheese

lemon juice

Salt and black pepper

Worcestershire sauce

close up of a beef crostini with horseradish cream spread

How to Make Crostinis with Beef and Horseradish Sauce 

Making the Marinade: Whisk together the Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar mustard, oil, maple syrup, and salt and pepper in a large shallow dish. Cover both sides of the beef by submerging it. Cover the dish and allow it to marinate for one and a half to two hours. 

Preparing the Spread: Combine the horseradish, greek yogurt, lemon juice, cream cheese, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl. Mix until it’s combined. You can also use a hand mixer to whip the spread for a lighter and fluffier consistency. Refrigerate until you are ready to use. 

Cooking the Shallots: Over medium-high heat, warm up the saucepan. Add the thinly sliced shallots and salt, then saute until they are golden brown. Pour in the vinegar and continue cooking until the shallots have absorbed the balsamic. Take the pan off the heat and set it aside. 

Making the Crostini: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and prep a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Lightly brush the olive oil on the bread using a pastry brush and place it on the baking sheet. Bake for 5 to 10 minutes, then flip them and continue baking until they are toasted. 

Cooking the Beef: Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat. While you are waiting, remove the beef from the marinade and pat dry. Add the oil to the pan, once it’s warm, sear the beef for 5 minutes or until a nice crust forms. Flip and repeat for the other side and cook until the internal temperature reaches 135 degrees. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes to lock in the flavor and to finish cooking to 140 degrees. 

Assembling the Crostinis: Spead the horseradish sauce onto both sides of the bread slices. Add the beef and top with the balsamic shallots. If you are using chives as a garnish just sprinkle those on. 

top view of a steak crostini made with french bread and horseradish spread

What Other Cuts of Meat Can You Use to Make Crostini Appetizers? 

You can use whatever cut of beef you would like. Here are some of the more popular options. 

  • Roast beef – if you wanted to add that to this recipe or skip the marinading you could buy roast beef from the deli. 
  • Filet mignon – prepare the same way as the recipe is written
  • Beef tenderloin

Making Steak Crostini Ahead of Time 

If you want to avoid the party stress of making everything at once, you can easily make the horseradish spread a day before. 

While the beef would be best freshly made, you could also make it a day or so ahead of time, then reheat it before assembling the crostinis. 

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Beef Crostini Appetizer with Horseradish Spread

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Yield: 12 crostini 1x

Description

Enjoy this Beef Crostini appetizer topped with a creamy horseradish spread the next time you host a party or just want a light, delicious dinner.


Ingredients

Scale

Marinade:

¼ cup Worcestershire sauce

¼ cup balsamic vinegar

¼ cup olive oil

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons maple syrup

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 pound rib cap, skirt, or flank steak, fat and gristle trimmed

For the spread:

2 tablespoons horseradish (not horseradish sauce)

3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt

4 ounces cream cheese, softened

1 teaspoon lemon juice

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Other:

3 large shallots, thinly sliced

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

1 French baguette, sliced on a bias (angle) into ½-inch thick pieces

Olive oil, for brushing and for the pan

Chives, finely chopped, to garnish, optional


Instructions

  1. For the marinade: In a large shallow dish, whisk together the Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Submerge the meat into the marinade, being sure to cover both sides. Cover with plastic wrap and marinate for one in a half to two hours.
  2. For the spread: As the meat is marinating, in a small bowl mix together the horseradish, yogurt, cream cheese, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined. (For a lighter texture, beat with an electric mixer for a fluffier consistency) Place spread in the refrigerator until ready to use
  3. For the shallots: Heat a small sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add shallots and salt and sauté until golden brown. Add the balsamic vinegar and continue to sauté until balsamic has absorbed into the shallots. Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. For the crostini: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush olive oil on the bread and place on the baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through the cook time, until toasted.
  5. For the meat: Heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat. Remove the meat from the marinade, pat dry, and discard the marinade. Heat oil in the pan. Place meat in the hot skillet and sear for about 5 minutes until a nice crust forms. Using tongs, turn the meat to sear the other side for about 5 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 135 degrees F. Remove from heat and let rest for 5-10 minutes allowing it to carry over cook to 140 degrees for medium. Slice along the grain.
  6. Assemble: Spread the horseradish mixture on each of the slices of bread. Top with slices of meat and then top with balsamic shallots. Sprinkle with chives, if using.

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Other recipes you may enjoy

Cranberry Relish

With just five simple ingredients this Cranberry Relish will add a pop of color and a side dish full of nutrients that will be a great addition to the table at any holiday gathering.

a small bowl of cranberry relish next to lemon, garnish, and single cranberries


With Thanksgiving just a few days away, everyone is finalizing their Thanksgiving Day menu. Thanksgiving dinner is all about timing. What needs to be in/out the oven or stovetop. I am always a fan of the menu items that can be made ahead of time so you don’t have to worry about factoring that in the day of the festivities.


This recipe is inspired by one of my friend’s aunt’s recipe. (Hi Steph!) I was scrambling last week to get a menu together for my Thanksgiving cooking class at work. I’ve been teaching multiple Thanksgiving Day-themed cooking classes for work the past 3 years now. I get a lot of the same people attending the classes, so I didn’t want to repeat any previous recipes used in class.


I tend to catch up with family and friends on my way to and from work in the car. Whoever invented Bluetooth, thank you! I was chatting with Steph on my way home from work and I mentioned how I didn’t know what I was making yet for my class the next day. She was told me about her Aunt’s cranberry relish recipe that her family goes crazy for every year. What I really loved about it was it was only a few simple ingredients and everything goes right into a food processor. Plus, it is a recipe that can be made ahead of time. I did tweak the original recipe to make it healthier.

Cranberries: What’s So Great About Them?

I’m so glad you asked! Cranberries are actually full of antioxidants known as PACs, which may help reduce inflammation related to chronic diseases and aging.

A cup of fresh cranberries is a great source of fiber and Vitamin C, but the downside is that they only come into season during the fall.

The good news is that you can buy up several bags of fresh cranberries and freeze them to have year-round!


Also, research indicates that consumption of flavonoids in foods and beverages may decrease the risk of atherosclerosis.

In vitro and in vivo experiments with flavonoids demonstrate that flavonoids are dietary antioxidants and inhibit LDL oxidation, inhibit platelet aggregation and adhesion, inhibit enzymes involved in lipid and lipoprotein metabolism that affect the immune response to oxidized LDL and their uptake by endothelial macrophages, may induce endothelium-dependent vassorelaxation, and may increase reverse cholesterol transport and decrease total and LDL cholesterol.

Cranberries contain both hydroxycinnamic acids and flavonoids. The cranberry flavonoids belong to three groups: anthocyanins, flavonols, and proanthocyanidins, which make cranberries a great addition as part of a heart-healthy diet. Source: The Cranberry Insitute.

infographic describing the health benefits and nutrition of cranberries

What You Need For Cranberry Relish

  • fresh cranberries
  • lemon
  • pineapple rings – I am using canned with the juice drained, you can use fresh if you would like.
  • sugar
  • honey

How To Make Cranberry Relish

Add the cranberries to the food processor and pulse until they begin breaking down. Depending on the size of your food processor you may have to do this in batches.

Slice the lemon into wedges and remove the seeds. Add the wedges, with the peel on, to the processor and pulse just until it breaks down.

Then add the sugar, honey, and pineapple rings. Continue pulsing until the relish reaches your desired consistency.

Can You Make Cranberry Relish with Nuts?

Yes! Because I recommend chilling cranberry relish overnight so all of the flavors come together, fold them in just before serving. Pecans and walnuts pair well with cranberry dishes, but you can add any variety of nuts.

I like smaller pieces, so if you have whole pecan or walnuts chop you can chop by hand or throw them in a food processor for a few pulses.

close up of cranberry relish made with real cranberries next to lemon half

What’s the Difference Between Cranberry Sauce and Cranberry Relish?

Relish is made with raw ingredients that are blended together then chilled. Traditionally cranberry sauce is actually cooked (unless you are eating it from the can) and is much sweeter.

Can You Use Frozen Cranberries?

You can use frozen, just know the flavor is much more muted, but that’s usually the case when you swap frozen fruits and veggies for fresh.

Be sure you allow for some additional time so they can thaw completely. Then drain the cranberries to remove the excess liquid.

Cranberry Relish Serving Suggestions

In case you were wondering, here are some of the popular ways cranberry relish is served.

  • As a holiday side dish
  • Over Brie or cream cheese
  • With crackers – you could use a salty variety or graham crackers for a sweeter version
  • Topping – use the leftover to top off your pancakes, waffles, or yogurt bowls

How Long is Cranberry Relish Good For?

You can store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. This also means you can make it ahead of time if you are prepping for holiday meals to ease the stress! 

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cranberry relish in a white bowl

Cranberry Relish

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Prep Time: 5
  • Cook Time: 10
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 10 1x
  • Category: side dish

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (12 oz) bag fresh cranberries
  • 1 lemon
  • 1 (20 oz) can pineapple rings, juice drained
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup honey

Instructions

  1. Place cranberries in a large food processor and pulse to begin to break down the cranberries.
  2. Cut lemon into small wedges and remove any seeds. Add the whole lemon to the food processor with the cranberries (do NOT remove the peel). Pulse to begin to break down the lemons with the cranberries.
  3. Add pineapple, sugar, and honey. Pulse to reach desired consistency.
  4. Let chill overnight to allow the flavors to come together.

Notes

*If using frozen cranberries, let thaw completely and drain to remove any excess liquid before preparing this recipe.

Keywords: cranberry relish, cranberry, side dish, thanksgiving, holiday

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Chef Julie Harrington, RD - Culinary Nutrition Consultant of chefjulierd.com
two image collage of cranberry relish with text overlay

Chocolate Mint Mousse

These perfectly portioned (vegan) Chocolate Mint Mousse desserts will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Vegan Chocolate Mint Mousse via Chef Julie Harrington, RD @ChefJulie_RD #vegan #chocolate #mint #dessert #tofu #protein #chocolatemint #dairyfree
The great debate: Is it chocolate chip mint ice cream OR mint chocolate chip ice cream? Also, does it need to be green or is it okay being white? My family and I have discussed this in great lengths. We have different opinions, but one thing we can agree on is the love for the chocolate/mint combination.
Do you remember those Andes candies? Still, to this day, my mom put those in our Christmas stockings.
Vegan Chocolate Mint Mousse via Chef Julie Harrington, RD @ChefJulie_RD #vegan #chocolate #mint #dessert #tofu #protein #chocolatemint #dairyfree

I repurposed the Oui yogurt glass containers for these perfectly portioned desserts. The secret ingredient that makes this silky and smooth vegan mousse – silken tofu!

Silken tofu is silkier than regular tofu, provides an incredibly delicate texture. That’s why it’s a natural fit in mousses and pies. Don’t worry, you would have no idea there is tofu in there. Tofu takes on the flavors of what else is in the recipe – in this case, chocolate mint!
Vegan Chocolate Mint Mousse via Chef Julie Harrington, RD @ChefJulie_RD #vegan #chocolate #mint #dessert #tofu #protein #chocolatemint #dairyfree
I’m sure you knew that tofu is an excellent plant-based protein, but did you know tofu is also an excellent source of calcium? Calcium is not just found in dairy products, but also soy and dark leafy greens, which is important for bone health.

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vegan chocolate mint mousse in a glass jar

Chocolate Mint Mousse

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4
  • Category: Dessert

Description

These perfectly portioned (vegan) Chocolate Mint Mousse desserts will satisfy your sweet tooth.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon espresso powder
  • 1 teaspoon mint extract
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • 2 cups (16 ounces) silken tofu (NOT soft tofu)
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • Toppings: coconut whipped cream, shaved chocolate, mint leaves

Instructions

  1. Melt the chocolate over a double boiler, or in a microwave-safe bowl. Remove the bowl from the heat as soon as the chocolate has melted, being careful not to burn it. Stir in the maple syrup, espresso powder, mint extract, and salt.
  2. In a blender, combine the silken tofu, water, and melted chocolate. Blend until thoroughly combined.
  3. Divide equally between 4 ramekins or little jars. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  4. Top with coconut whipped cream, shaved chocolate, and mint leaves if using.

Notes

For the (dairy free) coconut whipped cream:

Coconut Whipped Cream

Keywords: #vegan #chocolate #mint #dessert #tofu #protein #chocolatemint #dairyfree

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Chef Julie Harrington, RD - Culinary Nutrition Consultant of chefjulierd.com

 

Vegan Chocolate Mint Mousse via Chef Julie Harrington, RD @ChefJulie_RD #vegan #chocolate #mint #dessert #tofu #protein #chocolatemint #dairyfree

DIY Chex Party Mix

Spread the holiday cheer by sharing this DIY Chex Party Mix.
DIY Chex Party Mix via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #chex #chexmix #cereal #snack #savory #DIY #gift #DIYgift #appetizer
“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear” .. name that movie!
Another great way to spread Christmas cheer is sharing a fun little snack with those around you this holiday season.

General Mills kindly sent me a care package to create Chex party mix to spread the holiday cheer. Look how adorable this personalized wooden spoon is!
DIY Chex Party Mix via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #chex #chexmix #cereal #snack #savory #DIY #gift #DIYgift #appetizer
Last month, I had a wonderful opportunity to spend a couple days at the General Mills headquarters learning all about General Mills and the Bell Institute of health, nutrition, and food safety.
General Mills and the Bell Institute of health, nutrition, and food safety truly stand behind their mission statement – serving the world by making food people love.
DIY Chex Party Mix via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #chex #chexmix #cereal #snack #savory #DIY #gift #DIYgift #appetizer
When I was there I cooked in the Betty Crocker test kitchen and learned she is a famous woman who never existed. Guys… Betty Crocker is NOT a real person! My mind was blown. The recipe creations they come up with in that kitchen are delicious. I tried a pumpkin spice cheerio latte AND a cinnamon toast crunch latte when I was there. The cereal was actually blended in to the beverage. So creative!
We even saw the behind the scenes of GM’s food photography studio where they take all of their photography for their recipes and the images that appear on the box’s products.
DIY Chex Party Mix via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #chex #chexmix #cereal #snack #savory #DIY #gift #DIYgift #appetizer
It was interesting to learn that each General Mills brand has their own unique story. Wheat Chex have always been a staple in my pantry. I love the crunchy texture. I often add it to my homemade trail mix.
It’s always so common to do a cookie swap or gift candies during the holiday season, but sometimes it feels like a sugar overload. This year I am packaging up this savory snack mix to pass out this year. I always like making something to pass out to everyone.
If you are still looking for a sweet treat, Chex has got ya covered with a recipe for that too – Muddy Buddies. In my house, we call this “puppy chow”.
Thank you, Chex, General Mills, and the Bell Institute to help make the holiday season a little brighter and cheery for everyone!

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savory chex mix in a white bowl

DIY Chex Party Mix

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Yield: 14-16 1x
  • Category: snack

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups corn Chex cereal
  • 3 cups rice Chex cereal
  • 3 cups wheat Chex cereal
  • 1 cup mixed nuts
  • 1 cup garlic-flavored bite-size bagel chips or regular-size bagel chips, broken into 1-inch pieces
  • 6 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

  1. In a large microwavable bowl, mix cereals, nuts, pretzels, and bagel chips; set aside. In a small microwavable bowl, microwave butter uncovered on High about 40 seconds or until melted. Stir in seasonings. Pour over cereal mixture; stir until evenly coated.
  2. Microwave uncovered on High 5 to 6 minutes, thoroughly stirring every 2 minutes. Spread on paper towels to cool. Store in airtight container. (OR Pre-heat oven to 250°. Put cereal and seasoning mixture into an ungreased roasting pan and bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. Spread on paper towels to cool, about 15 minutes.)

Notes

Full recipe credit:
https://www.chex.com/recipes/original-chex-mix/

Photos and content credit:
https://chefjulierd.com

For other variations, try playing around with other spices.
I like to add 1/4 tsp cumin & 1/4 tsp chili powder to the mix.

Keywords: chex mix, snack

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Chef Julie Harrington, RD - Culinary Nutrition Consultant of chefjulierd.com

 

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DIY Chex Party Mix via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #chex #chexmix #cereal #snack #savory #DIY #gift #DIYgift #appetizer
Disclosure: I was provided with travel and accommodations to the General Mills for the #InsideGMI experience. I was not additionally compensated for my time or to write this post. 

Everything but the turkey, Thanksgiving menu

My favorite holiday is just a few days away! I love Thanksgiving because it’s all about friends, family, and FOOD! 
Everything but the turkey, Thanksgiving menu via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen

I realized I have a ton of recipes that would be a good addition to a Thanksgiving menu. Turkey is pretty much a staple, but the sides are just as important. I get sad when I see a Thanksgiving spread of just beige/white foods. Bring on the colors! Bring on the flavors! All of these recipes contain ingredients or concepts of a traditional Thanksgiving recipe, but with a dietitian/chef twist.

Soup:

Soups are a great way to start the Thanksgiving meal. Soups are an easy way to pack in nutrients and big bold flavors. This Butternut & Acorn Squash Soup has easily become one of my favorites. It’s creamy without any cream or dairy! How? Check out the recipe to find out.

Butternut & Acorn Squash Soup

Salads:

Skip the boring tossed salad and add some seasonal ingredients to create a colorful dish.
Citrus Beet Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette Dressing via RDelicious Kitchen via RDelicious Kitchen @rd_kitchen #salad #citrus #salad #beets #seasonal

Citrus Beet Salad 

Warm Kale Salad with Delicata Squash and Pomegranate via RDelicious Kitchen via RDelicious Kitchen @rd_kitchen #kale #delicatasquash #squash #fall #pomegratate #warm #salad #thanksgiving

Warm Kale Salad with Delicata Squash and Pomegranate

Side Dishes:

The side dishes really make up the bulk of the Thanksgiving Day menu. Aim to create a very colorful spread. Different colors mean different nutrients. Think outside the traditional Thanksgiving menu and add new recipes to your holiday table.
Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #mashed #potatoes #cauliflower #lowcarb #sidedish #healthy #thanksgiving #garlic

Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes

Cranberry Relish via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_kitchen #cranberry #relish #lowsugar #thanksgiving #sidedish #wellness #recipe #healthyholiday #holiday

Cranberry Relish

Roasted Maple-Mustard Glazed Brussels Sprouts via RDelicious Kitchen via RDelicious Kitchen @rd_kitchen #brusselssprouts #thanksgiving #sidedishes # lowcarb #maple #mustard

Maple Mustard Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchen

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Honey Roasted Carrots via RDelicious Kitchen @rd_kitchen #carrots #honey #roasted #sidedish #thanksgiving

Honey Roasted Carrots

Shaved Asparagus via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #asparagus #salad #greens #lowcarb #sidedish #thanksgiving

Shaved Asparagus Salad

Vegan Green Bean Casserole via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #greenbean #greenbeancasserole #vegan #glutenfree #thanksgiving

Vegan Green Bean Casserole

*To access this recipe, try a FREE trial of my anti-inflammatory meal plan

Desserts:

If you are looking to lighten up your holiday desserts, simply just trim back the amount of sugar. Trust me, no one will even notice. You can also try one of my seasonal dessert recipes too!
[No Bake] Pumpkin Cheesecake Mousse via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #pumpkin #tofu #cheesecake #mousse #dessert #lowsugar #singleserve #healthy #pumpkinspice #thanksgiving

Pumpkin Cheesecake Mousse

Orange Cranberry Bread via RDelicious Kitchen @rd_kitchen #wholegrain #cranberry #orange #bread #quickbread #muffins

Whole Grain Orange Cranberry Bread

Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Pie Bars via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #pumpkin #pumpkinpie #wellness #healthy #dessert #lowfat #bars #thanksgiving #holiday

Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Pie Bars

Chef Julie Harrington, RD - Culinary Nutrition Consultant of chefjulierd.comEverything but the turkey.. Thanksgiving menu via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #thanksgiving #menu #healthyholiday #healthythanksgiving #sidedish #turkey #lowcarb #glutenfree #dairyfree #lowsugar #healthy

Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. Between the delicious food and spending time with friends and family who we are truly thankful for, it’s hard to beat.
Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #mashed #potatoes #cauliflower #lowcarb #sidedish #healthy #thanksgiving #garlicI’m sharing this Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes over on the Healthy Aperture blog today. Plus, I’m chatting about taking away the stress around holiday eating and ways to incorporate balance.

Do you have any holiday cooking questions?

E-mail them to [email protected], Then head on over to Chef Julie RD on Facebook, Wednesday, November 22nd at 10:30 am EST where I will be answering everyone’s questions live!
Chef Julie Harrington, RD - Culinary Nutrition Consultant of chefjulierd.com

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Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #mashed #potatoes #cauliflower #lowcarb #sidedish #healthy #thanksgiving #garlic

Are you team lumpy or smooth mashed potatoes?

Whole Grain Orange Cranberry Bread

Have your house smell like the holiday season when you bake this Whole Grain Orange Cranberry Bread. Bake loaves as holiday gifts that your friends and family will love and they won’t even know it’s lightened up!

Orange cranberry bread on a white serving tray next to an orange half


I absolutely love baking during this time of year. Many gifts I like to give come in the form of food. When I was younger, I used to help my mom bake mini quickbreads to give to our neighbors, teachers, mailman, etc. to spread the holiday cheer. They were always wrapped with a nice bow and a little note attached. Everyone likes a homemade treat to enjoy during the hectic holiday season.


I’ve been playing around with using different types of flours in my baking recipes lately. I have not yet mastered understanding gluten free flours yet (I’m talking to you coconut flour – you dry crumbly mess!), but I am getting better with other whole grain flours.


Do you love baking as much as I do? I try to incorporate more whole grains vs. refined grains into my daily diet and during the holiday season, I do love baking, so why not add some whole grains here too!

The orange-cranberry combo is such a classic and always reminds me of the holiday season. While the holiday season may bring some indulgences with it, you still can make recipes taste indulgent with a healthy twist like this whole grain orange cranberry bread, by switching to whole grains, trimming back on sugar, and adding wholesome fruit.

top shot of healthy cranberry bread next to cranberries and an orange

What is White Whole Wheat Flour?

The look of this recipe may be deceiving when I tell you I used a whole wheat flour. Hmmm.. shouldn’t it be browner? Enter – White WholeWheat Flour. Sounds like a contradiction, right?

White wheat is a different type of wheat that has no major genes for bran color (unlike traditional “red” wheat which has one to three bran color genes). An easy way to think of it is as a sort of albino wheat. The bran of white wheat is not only lighter in color but it’s also milder in flavor, making whole white wheat more appealing to many people accustomed to the taste of refined flour.

The term “white flour” has often been used to mean “refined flour,” so “whole white wheat flour” sounds like a contradiction in terms. But it is simply WHOLE flour – including the bran, germ and endosperm – made from WHITE wheat. – source, Oldways

White whole wheat flour is a whole grain and a much easier solution to add in whole grains into your favorite baking recipes without compromising appearance, taste, and texture.

I’ve noticed in baking white whole wheat flour is not as dense as a regular whole wheat flour, but more of the perfect balance in between of all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour.

healthy cranberry quick bread sliced and ready to serve

Ingredients Needed For Healthy Cranberry Bread

white whole wheat flour

sugar

 salt

 baking powder

 baking soda

Oranges – these are going to be juiced and zested, so skip the store bought

 milk – you can use dairy or plant based, your choice!

Greek yogurt

 eggs

 vanilla extract

cranberries

For the glaze:

orange juice

powdered sugar

two slices of whole grain cranberry bread on a small plate next to the loaf

How To Make Whole Grain Cranberry Orange Bread 

Prep your loaf pan by spraying with non-stick spray or use parchment paper and preheat the oven to 375 degrees. 

In a medium-size mixing bowl sift together the flour, salt, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. 

Using an electric mixer (hand or stand) combine the orange juice, milk, yogurt, eggs, and vanilla extract. 

Once it’s smooth, add the dry ingredients into the wet and continue mixing.

Fold in the cranberries. 

Pour the batter into the loaf pan and bake until a toothpick comes out clean. This should take about 35 to 40 minutes. 

Once the cranberry bread has finished baking, allow it to cool on a baking rack while you make the glaze. 

Whisk together the sifted powdered sugar and orange juice. Then drizzle on top! You want to be sure the loaf has cooled some or else the glaze will just run off. 

Can I Use Frozen Cranberries?

While fresh cranberries have the best flavor, you can use frozen if that’s what you have. Be sure they are thawed completely before using and try to remove as much excess water as you can.

Health Benefits of Cranberries:

Cranberries naturally contain the flavonoid, proanthocyanidin (PAC) and other polyphenols that have potential health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease. Plus, just one cup of fresh cranberries contain 5.1 grams of fiber, 94 mg of potassium, and over 20% of the Daily Value for vitamin C. Nutrition information provided by the Cranberry Institute

Orange Cranberry Bread via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchen #wholegrain #orange #cranberry #bread #quickbread #loaf #baking #seasonal #healthy #bakedgoods #holiday #healthyholiday


I caught myself cutting off a piece here and there every time I walked through the kitchen. Get ready friends and family, this Whole Grain Orange Cranberry Bread is going to be delivered to you with a ribbon and a special note from me this holiday season!

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whole grain orange cranberry bread sliced on a white platter

Whole Grain Orange Cranberry Bread

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Yield: 812 1x
  • Category: quickbread, holiday

Description

Have your house smell like the holiday season when you bake this Whole Grain Orange Cranberry Bread. Bake loaves as holiday gifts that your friends and family will love and they won’t even know it’s lightened up!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups white whole wheat flour
  • ⅓ cup sugar
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • 2 oranges, juiced and zest (reserving 1 tbsp juice)
  • ½ cup milk
  • 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1½ cups fresh cranberries, chopped
  • For the glaze:
  • 1 tbsp reserved orange juice
  • 1 tbsp powdered sugar, sifted

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a loaf pan with cooking spray, set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, sift together white whole wheat flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
  3. In a large bowl, with an electric mixer, beat together orange juice, milk, yogurt, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients slowly, until just combined. Fold in cranberries.
  4. Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center, comes out clean.
  5. Let cool on a rack. Meanwhile whisk together the reserved orange juice and powdered sugar. Drizzle on top of the loaf. Slice and enjoy!

Keywords: quickbread, holiday, orange cranberry

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Chef Julie Harrington, RD - Culinary Nutrition Consultant of chefjulierd.com

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Healthy cranberry loaf bread next to cranberries and orange half with text overlay
 

Almond Pear Crisp for Two

A perfectly portioned dessert, these Almond Pear Crisps take less than 15 minutes to make!
Pear Crisp for Two via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen

By posting this recipe I am entering a recipe contest sponsored by Libby’s Fruits & Vegetables and am eligible to win prizes associated with the contest. I was not compensated for my time.
My boyfriend and I created the term “hankering” when we were in the mood for something sweet. At first, it meant chocolate chip cookies, but now it has transformed into any type of dessert. He supports my sweet tooth cravings.
Pear Crisp for Two via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen
One of my absolute favorite kinds of desserts is fruit crisps. I love the soft sweet fruit under a sweet crunchy crumble.
When our hankering kicked in, having a can of Libby’s pear halves came in handy. Libby’s wide variety of shelf-stable, conveniently packed, nutritious and delicious fruit and vegetable products, help busy families get fast, wholesome meals on the table without sacrificing flavor or nutrition, but in our case dessert ready in under 15 minutes.
Pear Crisp for Two via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen
Keeping canned fruits and vegetables come in handy since they are shelf stable. They have saved dinner time and time again.

Pear Crisp for Two via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen

According to the Canned Food Alliance, from a nutrition and sensory standpoint, recipes prepared with canned ingredients and those prepared using cooked fresh and/or frozen ingredients rate comparable. Canned fruits and vegetables are packed at their peak of harvest, which means they are packed at their peak nutrient value.
Pear Crisp for Two via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen

These canned pears can even be paired with the trendiest ingredients – coconut milk. In 2016’s Google trends report, coconut milk was on the list of ingredient trends. Instead of topping these Almond Pear Crisps with ice cream, try making coconut whipped cream!
Pear Crisp for Two via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen

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pear crisp in a small white dish with a gold spoon

Almond Pear Crisp for Two

  • Author: Julie @ RDelicious Kitchen
  • Yield: 2

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can Libby’s Pear Halves
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon, divided
  • 1/4 cup oats
  • 2 teaspoons maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon almond butter
  • 2 tablespoons almonds, chopped
  • 1/4 cup full-fat coconut milk, chilled
  • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
  2. Drain and dice pears. In a small bowl, toss pears with 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Evenly distribute pears into two oven-safe ramekins.
  3. In a small bowl, combine remaining 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, oats, maple syrup, almond butter, and almonds. Mix until combined, creating a crumbly texture. Add crumble on top of pears in the ramekins.
  4. Bake in the oven for 10 minutes, until crumble begins to brown.
  5. As the pear crisps are baking, beat coconut milk and powdered sugar until fluffy.
  6. Remove pear crisps from the oven and top with coconut whipped cream. Serve warm.

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Did you make this recipe? Tag @rdeliciouskitchen on Instagram or send me a picture, I’d love to see!

RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen

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Almond Pear Crisp for Two via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen

Carrot Cake Donuts

A recipe fail turned into recipe win! I was testing a batch of carrot cake muffins and they didn’t rise enough creating that perfect golden muffin top I was looking for. Instead of wasting the extra batter, I piped them into a donut pan. Voila! Carrot cake donuts! Pop on over to Rachael’s, Avocado a Day Nutrition’s blog, where I am sharing this Carrot Cake Donut recipe!
Carrot Cake Donuts via RDelicious Kitchen @RDelicious Kitchen
Did you make this recipe? Tag @rdeliciouskitchen on Instagram or send me a pic, I’d love to see!
RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen

Wild Blueberry & Rosemary Stuffed Baked Brie

A balance of savory and sweet, this Wild Blueberry & Rosemary Stuffed Baked Brie is a festive appetizer your guests will love.
Wild Blueberry & Rosemary Stuffed Baked Brie via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_KitchenDisclosure: By posting this recipe I am entering a recipe contest sponsored by Wild Blueberries and am eligible to win prizes associated with the contest. I was not compensated for my time.
Welp, it’s official. The holiday season is here! If you didn’t know, I work as a Supermarket RD and the grocery store is on top of the holiday season craze. The second Halloween was over, those shelves cleared out to the clearance rack and the Thanksgiving/Christmas decorations and food items are filling the shelves to the brim.
Being a food blogger, I am ahead of the game too, testing recipes for the holiday season already. The holiday season is my favorite time of year! It’s all about family, friends, and FOOD!
Wild Blueberry & Rosemary Stuffed Baked Brie via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_KitchenI know that nutrition is not everyone’s top concern during the holidays. While it’s okay to indulge a little on holidays, I still always want to add a nutrition punch to my flavorful recipe creations.
Did you know? Wild blueberries have a more intense flavor than regular blueberries. Wild Blueberry plants grow wild and are genetically diverse with thousands of interlocking plants spreading naturally across fields called barrens, giving Wild Blueberries their complex and delicious flavor with a mix of tart and sweet.
Make sure to stop over to the frozen section of the grocery store tour, because that is where you’ll find Wild Blueberries. Wild Blueberries are different from cultivated blueberries. For one, they are smaller than your regular blueberry and you can’t find them in the produce aisle. The Wild Blueberry crop (99% of it) is frozen. The little berries are individually quick frozen (IQF) at harvest locking in their nutrition and taste.

Since the Wild Blueberries are frozen when warmed it does create more moisture. Too much moisture will create a soggy pastry crust. A simple (and healthy hack) is to add chia seeds to help thicken the Wild Blueberry mixture.
Wild Blueberry & Rosemary Stuffed Baked Brie via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_KitchenYes, I know you’ll be excited to share these new Wild Blueberry facts at your holiday party. I’m sure you’ll have plenty of time because everyone will be huddled around this appetizer dish digging in for more.

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Wild Blueberry & Rosemary Stuffed Baked Brie on a white plate with rosemary

Wild Blueberry & Rosemary Stuffed Baked Brie

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 20
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x
  • Category: Appetizer

Description

A balance of savory and sweet, this Wild Blueberry & Rosemary Stuffed Baked Brie is a festive appetizer your guests will love.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup frozen wild blueberries
  • 3 tablespoons honey, divided
  • 1 tablespoon rosemary, chopped
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • 12-ounce wheel of brie
  • 1 sheet puff pastry defrosted
  • 1 egg, whisked
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds

Instructions

  1. In a small pot over low-medium heat, combine wild blueberries, honey, rosemary, lemon juice, lemon zest and chia seeds. Let simmer for about 10 minutes until mixture thickens. Let cool completely.
  2. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  3. Roll the puff pastry into 12×12 inch square. Slice brie horizontally. Place of the brie, rind side down in the middle of the puff pastry. Add blueberry mixture evenly over brie. Place the other half of brie gently on top the blueberry mixture to cover.
  4. Fold up the corners of puff pastry one at a time, brushing all the dough with the egg wash as you go, using it as the glue to hold the pastry together. Continue to brush the egg wash over the top and sides of the dough after formed.
  5. Bake the brie at 400 degrees for 10 minutes, then carefully pull the oven rack out without removing the brie from the oven. Quickly drizzle with remaining honey and sprinkle with the remaining almond slices. Slide the Brie back in the oven and continue baking for another 10 minutes. Remove from the oven. Top with the remaining wild blueberry mixture and garnish with rosemary. Serve warm.

Keywords: #bakedbrie #brie #rosemary #wildblueberries #blueberries #appetizer #holiday #holidayappetizer

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Chef Julie Harrington, RD - Culinary Nutrition Consultant of chefjulierd.com

Love Wild Blueberries? Learn more and follow:
Site: www.wildblueberries.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/wildblueberries
Twitter: @wildblueberries
Instagram: www.instagram.com/wildblueberries
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/wildbberries

Wild Blueberry & Rosemary Stuffed Baked Brie via Chef Julie Harrington @ChefJulie_RD #bakedbrie #brie #appetizer #holiday #holidayappetizer #wildblueberries #blueberries #rosemary