Red Velvet Marble Waffles (A Cozy Valentine’s Day Breakfast)

 

These red velvet marble waffles are fluffy, festive, and perfect for a cozy Valentine’s Day breakfast. Easy to make and beautiful to serve with whipped cream and chocolate.

Red Velvet Marble Waffles (A Cozy Valentine’s Day Breakfast)

Red Velvet Marble Waffles are a cozy and festive way to start Valentine’s Day at home. This recipe brings together two classic waffle batters—one rich and chocolatey, the other lightly sweet and vanilla-forward—swirled together for a beautiful marbled effect that feels special without being complicated.

These waffles cook up with a lightly crisp exterior and a fluffy, tender center, making them perfect for slow mornings or a relaxed weekend brunch. The hint of cocoa gives them that signature red velvet flavor, while the Greek yogurt keeps the texture soft and balanced. Finished with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, or a simple drizzle of maple syrup, they’re indulgent without feeling over the top.

Whether you’re making breakfast for someone you love or just treating yourself, these Red Velvet Marble Waffles are easy to prepare, fun to serve, and perfect for turning an ordinary morning into something a little more memorable.

Ingredients

• 2 large eggs
• 1½ cups milk
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ tablespoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 4 Tablespoons granulated sugar
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 3 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons red food coloring
• 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste

For Serving (Optional):
Whipped cream, chocolate syrup, chocolate chips, maple syrup, butter, or powdered sugar

How to Make Red Velvet Marble Waffles

1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly grease if needed.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and Greek yogurt until smooth.
3. Add the flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and melted butter. Stir just until combined and most of the lumps are gone. Do not overmix.
4. Divide the batter evenly between two bowls.
5. To one bowl, add the cocoa powder and red food coloring, mixing until fully incorporated.
6. To the second bowl, stir in the vanilla bean paste.
7. Spray the waffle iron with nonstick cooking spray. Pour ¼ cup of the red velvet batter onto the waffle iron in a zigzag pattern, followed by ¼ cup of the vanilla batter on top. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the batters together.
8. Close the waffle iron and cook according to your waffle maker’s instructions until golden and cooked through.
9. Transfer waffles to a sheet pan and keep warm in a 200°F oven while repeating with the remaining batter.
10. Serve warm with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, chocolate chips, or classic butter and maple syrup.

Substitutions and Variations

1. Chocolate Chip Red Velvet Waffles
Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the batter once it’s poured onto the waffle iron for extra richness.

2. Strawberry Valentine Waffles
Skip the cocoa powder and swirl a spoonful of strawberry preserves into the batter for a fruity Valentine twist.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Let the melted butter cool slightly before adding it to the batter to avoid scrambling the eggs.

• Avoid over-swirling the batter—just a few gentle passes create the prettiest marble effect.

• For crispier waffles, allow them to cook a little longer before removing.

• Leftover waffles can be frozen and reheated in a toaster for an easy weekday breakfast.

Set the Mood

Make your Valentine's Day breakfast or brunch an experience to remember.  See some of my favorite tips below for setting the mood for a romantic breakfast.

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Before You Start

• Have your 2 batters, a wooden skewer, and two 1/4 cup measuring cups handy so the cooking and swirling in the waffle iron goes smoothly.

• Preheat the oven to 200°F if you plan to keep waffles warm while cooking in batches.

• Set out toppings before serving so breakfast feels relaxed and effortless.

 

 

 

 

 

Everyday Garden Salad (Plus a Simple Healthy Salad Formula That Works Every Time)

 

Fresh, simple, and satisfying, this Everyday Garden Salad is perfect for healthy starts to the new year. Plus, learn a flexible salad formula you can use again and again.

Everyday Garden Salad (Plus a Simple Healthy Salad Formula That Works Every Time)

The start of a new year makes me crave food that feels fresh and balanced — not fussy, not complicated, just good. This Everyday Garden Salad is exactly the kind of meal I make when we’ve eaten a little heavier earlier in the day and I want dinner to feel lighter without feeling like I’m missing out.

I especially love salads like this on busy weeknights, when I want something quick and nourishing, and at lunch on the weekends, when I’m craving something crisp, colorful, and satisfying. It’s simple, flexible, and endlessly adaptable — the kind of salad you can throw together without a recipe, once you know the formula.

That’s why I’m sharing not just this Everyday Garden Salad, but my simple, healthy salad formula that works every time. Think of it as a mix-and-match guide you can use all year long, whether you’re starting fresh in January or just trying to get a wholesome meal on the table any day of the week.

Enjoy!

My Simple Healthy Salad Formula

Over the years, I’ve learned that the salads I make most often aren’t strict recipes — they’re built on a formula. Once you understand the balance, you can mix and match ingredients based on what you have, what’s in season, or what you’re craving.  This will give you a balanced salad that satisfies, fuels, and actually keeps you full.

The 5-Part Everyday Healthy Salad Formula

1. Greens (The Base)
Start with tender greens like green leaf lettuce, romaine, mixed greens, or arugula.

2. Crunchy Veggies (Texture)
Think cucumbers, carrots, radishes, bell peppers, or celery.

3. Color Boost (Nutrients + Appeal)
Add color with tomatoes, roasted veggies, beets, or fruit.

4. Protein or Power Add-In (Staying Power)
Garbanzo beans, lentils, grilled chicken, tuna, eggs, or tofu all work beautifully.

5. Simple Dressing (Flavor + Healthy Fats)
Keep it easy: olive oil + vinegar, lemon juice, or balsamic.

This balance is what makes a salad feel satisfying instead of like an afterthought.

Why I Reach for Salads Like This So Often

This salad has become my go-to for everyday life because it’s versatile, satisfying, and completely hassle-free. On busy weeknights, it comes together in minutes and feels light without skimping on flavor or satisfaction. On weekends, it’s my favorite quick lunch — crisp, colorful, and nourishing — and it always feels like a fresh, intentional choice rather than a last-minute fix. The combination of crunchy veggies, bright colors, protein, and a simple dressing makes it the kind of meal I want to return to again and again, no matter the season.

Ingredients for This Everyday Garden Salad

Salad:

• 1 head green leaf lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup sliced cucumbers
• 1 cup heirloom cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of 3 colors)
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup garbanzo beans (cooked or canned, drained and rinsed)

Simple Red Wine Vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

How to Make It

Ready in minutes:

1. Wash and prepare all the salad ingredients.
2. Combine lettuce, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, carrots, and garbanzo beans in a large bowl.
3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy a fresh, balanced meal.

Let's Apply the Formula to This Salad

1. Greens

• Green leaf lettuce
• Light, tender, and perfect for everyday eating.

2. Crunchy Veggies

• Sliced cucumbers
• Shredded carrots
• Fresh crunch without overpowering the salad.

3. Color Boost

• Tri-color heirloom cherry tomatoes
  Color = nutrients and visual appeal. This is what makes it feel crave-worthy.

4. Protein / Power Add-In

• Garbanzo beans
  Plant-based protein + fiber to keep you satisfied.

5. Simple Dressing

• Red wine vinegar
• Olive oil
• Clean, classic, and lets the vegetables shine.

How to Use This Formula for Other Salads

Once you know the formula, the possibilities are endless:

• Swap green leaf lettuce for mixed greens or arugula

• Replace garbanzo beans with grilled chicken, tuna, or lentils

• Use lemon juice or balsamic instead of red wine vinegar

• Add seeds, nuts, or cheese if that’s what you’re craving

The goal isn’t perfection — it’s creating a salad you actually want to eat.

More Everyday Salads You’ll Love

If you love simple, balanced salads like this one, you might also enjoy a few other favorites from my kitchen. Try my Country Chophouse Chicken Salad for something hearty, Bright & Fresh Winter Salad with Bulgur, Delicata Squash, and Pomegranate  when you want something bright and fresh, or Teriyaki Chicken Mandarin Orange Salad for an easy, make-ahead option.

A Fresh Start You Can Stick With

Healthy eating doesn’t have to mean overhauling everything at once. Sometimes, it’s as simple as having a reliable, everyday salad you can come back to again and again.

This Everyday Garden Salad — and the simple formula behind it — is one of those meals for me. I hope it becomes one for you too.

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Raspberry Cheesecake Brownies (Easy Valentine’s Day Dessert)

Rich, fudgy raspberry cheesecake brownies made easy! Perfect small-batch Valentine’s Day dessert for sharing or gifting. 

Raspberry Cheesecake Brownies (Easy Valentine’s Day Dessert)

Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in something rich, chocolatey, and a little bit decadent — without spending hours in the kitchen. These Raspberry Cheesecake Brownies are exactly that: fudgy, chocolatey brownies swirled with creamy cheesecake and ribbons of tart raspberry puree.  Made with a brownie mix, these cheesecake brownies are quick, foolproof, and a beautiful way to celebrate Valentine’s Day in style.

They’re easy enough for a weekday treat, but elegant enough to serve for a romantic night in or to gift to someone special. Best of all, this is a small-batch recipe, perfect for sharing between two — or keeping all to yourself!

Whether you’re planning a cozy Valentine’s brunch, an indulgent dessert after date night, or simply a sweet way to celebrate the season, these brownies deliver on flavor, texture, and that little touch of homemade elegance every chocolate lover dreams about.

Enjoy!

Ingredients

You’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients to create these bakery-style brownies.

For the Brownie Layer

• 1 standard brownie mix
• Ingredients listed on the brownie mix package (typically eggs, oil, and water)

For the Cheesecake Swirl

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Raspberry Swirl

• 6 ounces fresh or frozen raspberries
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to taste)
• 1–2 teaspoons cornstarch

How to Make Raspberry Cheesecake Brownies

These brownies look impressive, but the steps are simple and beginner-friendly.

1. Prepare the brownie batter according to the package directions and set aside a small portion for swirling.

2. Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then mix in the sugar, egg, and vanilla until creamy.

3. Puree the raspberries and stir in the sugar and cornstarch.

4. Spread the brownie batter into the prepared pan, top with the cheesecake mixture, and drizzle with the raspberry puree.

5. Add small dollops of reserved brownie batter and cheesecake, then gently swirl everything together.

6. Bake until set, tenting with foil toward the end to prevent over-browning.

7. Cool completely, then chill before slicing for clean, beautiful edges.

Substitutions and Variations

Basic Ingredient Substitutions

• Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture, but reduced-fat cream cheese will work in a pinch. Avoid whipped cream cheese, as it won’t set properly.

• Raspberries: Fresh or frozen raspberries both work well. If using frozen, thaw first and drain off excess liquid before pureeing.

• Granulated Sugar: White sugar works best for a clean flavor, but superfine sugar can be used if that’s what you have on hand.

• Brownie Mix: Any standard 8×8-size brownie mix will work — fudge-style or classic both bake up beautifully. Avoid “family size” mixes for this recipe.

Variations

• Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Brownies - Stir chocolate chunks or chocolate chips into the brownie batter before baking for an extra indulgent bite.

• Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies - Swap the raspberries for strawberries and follow the same puree method for a sweeter, softer fruit swirl.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• These brownies slice best fully chilled, so don’t skip the refrigeration time.

• Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for neat, bakery-style squares.

• Avoid over-swirling — a few gentle passes create the prettiest marbled effect.

• If your brownie mix is very fudgy, slightly underbaking helps keep the final texture rich and soft.

Why These Work for Valentine’s Day

These raspberry cheesecake brownies strike the perfect balance between romantic and approachable. They’re rich but not heavy, elegant without being fussy, and just the right size for sharing. Whether you’re baking for someone you love or savoring a square with your favorite cup of coffee, they feel like a small but meaningful indulgence.

If you’re planning a full Valentine’s Day menu, these brownies pair beautifully with a cozy dinner like my Wine-Braised Short Ribs, or a special breakfast such as Raspberry Chocolate Chip Muffins. Both are perfect for celebrating at home without the crowds.

More Valentine’s Day Favorites

• Wine-Braised Short Ribs – A cozy, romantic dinner for two

• Raspberry White Chocolate Dream Scones – Perfect for Valentine’s brunch

• Be My Valentine Dessert – An elegant, easy dessert

• Valentine's Day Cornmeal Cookies - Soft, bakery-style cookies for sharing

Before You Start

Before you begin, take a few minutes to set yourself up for success. These brownies come together easily, but having everything ready makes the process smooth and stress-free.

• Let the cream cheese fully soften at room temperature so the cheesecake swirl blends smoothly.

• Line your 8×8 pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal.

• Decide if you want to strain the raspberry puree for a seedless swirl (optional but great for clean slices).

• Preheat the oven according to your brownie mix instructions so it’s ready when you are.

 

 

 

Mini Sheet Pan Chicken Tostadas (Perfect for Game Day & Easy Hosting)

 

Mini Sheet Pan Chicken Tostadas are the perfect game day appetizer—crispy, cheesy, and easy to make for a crowd using rotisserie chicken and pantry staples.

Mini Sheet Pan Chicken Tostadas (Perfect for Game Day & Easy Hosting)

I love watching the big game and look forward to it every year, but I also think that game day food should be easy, a little indulgent, and something you can pull off without missing to much of the action.  These mini sheet pan chicken tostadas are a perfect fit.  They’re crispy, cheesy, and endlessly snackable, making them perfect for eating during halftime.

What I love most about this recipe is how effortless it is and it can easily be doubled for a larger crowd. Using rotisserie chicken and canned refried beans keeps prep minimal, while baking everything on one sheet pan means less mess and less stress when you’re hosting. You can prep the toppings ahead of time, pop the tostadas in the oven, and have a warm, crowd-pleasing appetizer ready in minutes.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry group for game day, setting out a casual snack spread, or just want something fun and different for the weekend, these mini tostadas are the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Enjoy!

Ingredients

You’ll need just a handful of easy, game-day friendly ingredients:

• Street-size corn tortillas – sturdy enough to hold toppings
• Canola oil – helps crisp the tortillas evenly
• Refried beans – classic tostada base
• Shredded rotisserie chicken – quick, flavorful, and convenient
• Shredded cheese – a cheddar + Monterey Jack blend melts beautifully

For Garnish (optional but encouraged):

• Shredded lettuce
• Chopped tomatoes
• Sour cream
• Jalapeño hot sauce

How to Make

These mini tostadas come together quickly using one sheet pan.

• Crisp the tortillas first - Brush both sides with oil and bake just until lightly firm—this creates a sturdy base without over-crisping.

• Flip, layer, and bake again - Spread refried beans, add chicken, and sprinkle with cheese.

• Melt and heat through - Return to the oven until the cheese is fully melted and the filling is warmed.

• Finish with fresh toppings - Lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and hot sauce add crunch, freshness, and contrast.

Substitutions & Variations

Ingredient Swaps

• Tortillas: Flour tortillas work, but corn gives the best crisp texture

• Chicken: Use leftover grilled chicken or shredded baked chicken

• Beans: Black beans or seasoned pinto beans can replace refried beans

• Cheese: Pepper Jack adds a little heat

Variations

1. Buffalo Chicken Tostadas
Toss the chicken with buffalo sauce before layering. Finish with ranch or blue cheese drizzle.

2. Southwest Veggie Tostadas
Skip the chicken and add roasted corn, sautéed peppers, and black beans for a vegetarian option.

Kitchen Tips & Notes

• Don’t over-bake the tortillas during the first bake—they’ll crisp more in the second round

• Use pre-shredded rotisserie chicken for speed, or shred warm chicken for easier handling

• Set toppings out buffet-style for easy self-serve during parties

• These are best enjoyed right away while the tortillas are crisp

If you’re anything like me, one snack is never enough. These mini tostadas are right at home alongside my Ultimate Restaurant Style Salsa and Cheesy Garlic Herb Pull-apart Bread, two more easy favorites we love serving when friends are over.

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Before You Start

A few quick tips to make game-day prep effortless:

• Have all toppings prepped and chilled before baking

• Line your sheet pan with parchment for easy cleanup

• Serve immediately after baking for the best texture

• These tostadas are meant to be assembled hot, topped fresh, and eaten right away