I developed this recipe to entice my husband into eating more vegetables and less processed carbohydrates. It still has the luscious flavors of traditional Italian lasagna, but I use strips of zucchini in place of pasta to create a lighter lower carb version that also uses low-fat cheese.

I took this American classic to a healthier new level by adding turkey and whole wheat pasta. Haven’t met a family yet who doesn’t love spaghetti and meatballs and this is an easy way to introduce your little ones to whole wheat products

Homemade Chinese food can be so healthy if you cut back on the cooking oil. This dish is light and lovely, perfect to serve on top of some tender udon noodles or fluffy brown rice. I also recommend serving it on a bed of sautéed or grilled green onions.

Meatloaf isn’t pretty to look at, but it’s funny how many people just love it all the same. When I was a kid, I actually preferred the leftovers. It made the best sandwiches and always seemed more moist and flavorful after a night in the fridge

Spinach is extremely nutritious and versatile. I incorporate it into dishes whenever I want to increase nutrition by adding vegetables. No-boil lasagna is a time saver but it makes this lasagna dry. If you decide to use it, soak it in hot water for 10-15 minutes first.

Allow the mixture to marinate 30 minutes before serving, but not longer as the grapefruit will “overcook” the fish. You will notice that the salmon will become more opaque as it marinates. I like to serve it in individual parfait glasses for an elegant presentation and garnish with the remaining tablespoon of cilantro and bits of zest. This dish pairs well with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand.

Niçois is a classic French preparation that usually incorporates olives. The term means “prepared Nice style”, coming from Nice, France. Roasting chicken this way tenderized the meat and infuses it with the fruity richness of olives

Orange and balsamic make a sweet and sour combo that is perfect with salmon. If you have a sensitive nose but still want to enjoy the health benefits of eating fish, citrus is always a good way to cut the strong sent of salmon.

Hot chilies make you sweat, clear your sinuses, and can help you to burn calories by raising your body temperature. If you can’t take the heat, cut the quantity of chilies by half. But over time, you can develop a tolerance and taste for the magnificent chili!

Salmon is an easy fish to enjoy and most kids love the taste! Try to find wild salmon to be sure you’re getting the omega-3’s for heart health and to help improve your mood. If you prefer the traditional version of this dish, replace the salmon with a fresh tuna steak.