Sesame Black Bean Salad

Sesame Black Bean Salad

Sesame and ginger-infused dressing breathes new life into this black bean salad, taking it in a deliciously different direction. Dive into the flavours of Asia with a salad that can serve as both side dish and healthy lunch. The versatility of bean salads also means that they can be enjoyed in many ways–in pitas, on crostini, as well as plain on a plate.  I also … Continue reading Sesame Black Bean Salad

Pesto-Dressed Three Bean Salad| Swirls and Spice

Pesto-Dressed Three Bean Salad

Three Bean Salad is one of the easiest salads ever!  It comes together in just minutes.   All you need are cooked beans plus a few dressing ingredients swiftly mixed.  Voila!  Flavourful herbs and filling ingredients create a marvelous side dish or lighter lunch.  We enjoyed this salad right away, but the leftover portion was even better on the second day after the rich pesto flavours had … Continue reading Pesto-Dressed Three Bean Salad

Cocoa Nut Breakfast Cookies | Swirls and Spice

Cocoa Nut Breakfast Cookies {GF}

Even though it’s January and I’m on a salad kick, no way am I going to give up cookies.  They are my favourite.  And what about some chocolatey cookies that taste amazing?  Sign me up!  Oh, and they’re healthy too!  Morning, noon, or night, you won’t find me hesitating to take a bite. What’s in these cookies that counts as healthy?  Almost everything.  Starting with superfood … Continue reading Cocoa Nut Breakfast Cookies {GF}

Napa Salad with Sesame Orange Dressing

Saturday Salads: A Resolution to Eat More

For the month of January, I am aiming to eat more salads.  Resolutions are something I’m always reluctant to make, especially for a whole year.  But one month at a time seems attainable.  In my holiday baking frenzy, I am afraid that salads were not a frequent part of our family meals, except for a quick plate of sliced cucumbers and tomatoes. So every Saturday … Continue reading Saturday Salads: A Resolution to Eat More

12 Glute-Free Party Appetizers and Sweets | Swirls and Spice

12 {Gluten Free} Party Starters and Sweets to Welcome the New Year

Whether you are gathering with friends to ring in the new year or just relaxing with family during a bowl game or favourite movie, bite-sized foods are where it’s at.  And all the better if those delicious bites can be made ahead and enjoyed by all (including those who eat gluten free). Some day I dream of hosting open houses with bountiful buffets where I … Continue reading 12 {Gluten Free} Party Starters and Sweets to Welcome the New Year

Five Spice Pepper Nuts

As an avid baker, I am usually both surprised and intrigued when I hear about something new.  Last month’s discovery was pepper nuts.  Have you ever tried them? I was schooled by a friend in town here about what pepper nuts are and how to make them.  Interestingly, they require neither pepper nor nuts.  They are crunchy (like nuts) and spicy (like pepper).  These teeny … Continue reading Five Spice Pepper Nuts