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30 High-Protein Meals Made with Cottage Cheese

green onion knife and salad placed on table

This post is dedicated to my co-worker who is OBSESSED with cottage cheese. Literally any recipe- he’s shamelessly adding it to boost his protein intake.  But I can’t blame him. It’s a whole food.  It tastes great and it’s incredibly versatile and an excellent ingredient to support weight loss.  So Scott – this one is for you!  

Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein, and according to the American Dairy Association it packs about 12 grams per 1/2 cup serving.1 Not only does it boast high protein content, but its creamy texture makes it a versatile ingredient for a variety of meals. Whether you’re a fan of the taste of cottage cheese or looking for ways to sneak more protein into your diet, these recipes are great additions to your meal plan. Here, I’ve compiled the best cottage cheese recipes that are gluten-free and perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, each designed to deliver at least 30 grams of protein.

1/4 cup (2 oz) cottage
1/4 cup (2 oz) cottage by U.S. Department of Agriculture

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Breakfast:

Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bowls: Start your day with these bowls combining cottage cheese, fresh berries, a scoop of protein powder, and a touch of honey. Blend in a food processor for a creamy texture similar to Greek yogurt.

High-Protein Pancakes: Mix cottage cheese with oats, eggs, and a scoop of your favorite protein powder. Cook on medium heat for pancakes that are a healthy breakfast option and a good source of calcium.

Savory Cottage Cheese Bowl: For those who prefer savory recipes, this bowl mixes cottage cheese with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and olive oil. It’s a great way to incorporate healthy fats and important nutrients into your morning routine.  

Cottage Cheese Toast: Upgrade your toast with a spread of cottage cheese, topped with sliced bell peppers and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese. Place under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese melts for added deliciousness.

High-Protein Omelette: Whip up an omelette by adding 1/2 cup of cottage cheese into the egg mixture. Throw in fresh veggies and cooked chicken for extra protein and flavor.

Cottage Cheese Cake Overnight Oats: Combine 1/2 cup of cottage cheese with 1/2 cup rolled oats.  Mix in a touch of vanilla, and 1/2 a mashed banana and let sit overnight.  Top with fresh raspberries.  It’s one of the best ways to have cake for breakfast!  Add stevia as needed for sweetness.  

Lunch:

Cottage Cheese Alfredo Sauce: A healthier version of the classic alfredo made with cottage cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic and fresh herbs blended until smooth. Serve over your favorite gluten free pasta for a nutritious lunch.

Cottage Cheese and Quinoa Salad: A filling salad that combines the protein power of quinoa and cottage cheese with fresh greens and a lemon olive oil dressing.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Mix cottage cheese, cooked lean ground turkey, and quinoa for a filling, then stuff into bell peppers. Bake in the oven until the peppers are tender.

Cottage Cheese Tacos: Replace traditional taco meat with a blend of cottage cheese, taco seasoning, and black beans, served in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

Savory Cottage Cheese Dip: Blend cottage cheese until smooth, then mix with diced tomatoes, green onions, and a touch of garlic for a dip that goes well with tortilla chips or fresh veggies.

Cottage Cheese Egg Salad: For a refreshing twist, mix chopped boiled eggs with cottage cheese, mustard, and herbs for a high-protein egg salad.

Dinner:

Cottage Cheese Lasagna: Substituting ricotta with cottage cheese is a great way to boost the protein content in this classic dish. Layer with cooked pasta, your favorite sauce, and plenty of vegetables. I’ve done it several times with my baked ziti recipe!

Cottage Cheese Pizza: Swap out mozzarella for cottage cheese on your pizza for an unusual but tasty twist. Add toppings like cooked chicken breast, spinach, and bell peppers for added nutrients.

Cottage Cheese Stuffed Chicken: Stuff chicken breasts with a mixture of cottage cheese, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, then bake until juicy and tender.

Creamy Cottage Cheese Vodka Sauce: Make a quick cottage cheese Vodka sauce to create a creamy, satisfying pasta dish paired with grilled chicken.  Zip cottage cheese with your favorite jarred marinara sauce and then heat and serve!  

You can easily replace the ricotta in this recipe with cottage cheese.

Cottage Cheese Burrito Bowl: Mix cottage cheese with rice, beans, and fajita vegetables for a hearty and nutritious meal.

Cottage Cheese Bolognese: Replace half the meat in your traditional Bolognese sauce with cottage cheese for a lighter, yet still protein-rich sauce.

Snacks:

Cottage Cheese Ice Cream: Combine cottage cheese with coconut milk and your choice of sweetener, then freeze for a healthy alternative to traditional ice cream. Check out my recipe here!

Cottage Cheese Energy Balls: Blend cottage cheese with oats, chia seeds, protein powder, and a bit of honey, then roll into balls and refrigerate—a perfect pre-workout snack.

Cottage Cheese and Fruit Parfait: Layer cottage cheese with fresh fruits, a drizzle of honey, and some granola for a quick and easy snack.

Cottage Cheese Dip for Fresh Veggies: Blend cottage cheese until smooth, then season with your favorite spice mix.  I like the Trader Joe’s Ranch seasoning for a kid friendly dip that pairs well with any type of fresh vegetables.

Cottage Cheese Caprese Bites: A simple snack of a slice of tomato, topped with a scoop of cottage cheese, basil leaf, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Don’t forget the flaky sea salt!

Cottage Cheese on Toast: Just scoop your cottage cheese onto your favorite gluten free bread or seed cracker. Top withe diced tomato, chive and everything but the bagel seasoning.

Additional Meal Ideas:

Protein-Packed Smoothies: Blend cottage cheese with fresh or frozen fruit, almond milk, and a scoop of protein powder for an easy way to increase your protein intake.

Cottage Cheese-Stuffed Avocado: Halve an avocado and fill with cottage cheese, topped with salsa and a squeeze of lime, for a balance of creamy and tangy flavors.

Cottage Cheese Frittata: Beat eggs with cottage cheese, pour into a baking dish, and add your choice of vegetables and cheese. Bake until set for a high-protein, easy meal prep option.

Cottage Cheese Meatballs: Combine cottage cheese with ground meat, breadcrumbs (gluten-free options available), and spices. Basically use in place of your liquid or eggs. Bake and serve with your favorite sauce.

Savory Cottage Cheese Crepes: Fill crepes with cottage cheese mixed with herbs and shredded chicken for a delightful lunch or dinner option.

Cottage Cheese and Berry Compote: A simple dessert or snack, layer cottage cheese with a homemade berry compote for a burst of flavor.

Incorporating cottage cheese into your meals is not only an easy way to boost your protein intake but also enhances the flavor and texture of dishes. From the creamy sauce of a lasagna to the sweet satisfaction of cheesecake, cottage cheese proves to be a great ingredient for anyone looking to maintain a healthy, high-protein diet. 

Benefits of eating cottage cheese

It’s a good source of high-quality protein.  With about 12 grams of protein per half-cup serving, cottage cheese is an excellent source of casein protein. 

It’s a source of bone-strengthening minerals: Cottage cheese is packed with calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, which are vital for strong, healthy bones. 

Can be low in fat: Available in low-fat and nonfat varieties, cottage cheese is an excellent option for those looking to reduce their fat intake without sacrificing taste or nutritional value.

Gut Health Benefits: When produced with live and active cultures, cottage cheese can offer probiotics similar to yogurt, promoting a healthy gut microbiome. 

Macros

This is a list of ideas. You will need to play with the amounts you use to fit your macro goals. Feel free to DM or email me with questions!

References

1.  https://www.americandairy.com/health-wellness/benefits-of-dairy/cottage-cheese/

About Me

I’m Melanie.

I’m a chef, registered dietitian, foodie, wife and mom.
If you’re looking for quick and healthy meal inspiration that supports your health goals while feeding the rest of your family (including the kiddoes) well, then you’ve come to the right place!

Melanie Marcus Selfie
Articles/

Start making extra money with a nutrition side hustle

crop faceless woman working on netbook in office

As a registered dietitian and all around food person, FASTer Way to Fat Loss is THE program I would recommend for anyone looking to tone up, shed fat, feel better in their clothes, have more energy, even improve cholesterol levels or simply start establishing healthy habits.  I would recommend it for all of these reasons and more – BECAUSE IT WORKS!  

It’s not a diet, it’s a lifestyle that delivers customized results.  No gimmicks, just a massive support system and all the tools you need to be successful.  

Read more about the FASTer Way to Fat Loss here.

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But then something unexpected happened

After just a few months of starting the FASTer Way – I had a little voice in the back of my head that was nudging me to become a coach.  It was involuntary… and kind of a no-brainer.  With my corporate position as a dietitian, I don’t have the opportunity to work with clients one on one.  So in sharing a lifestyle that I already live (and know delivers results), I can help people and make significant income.  Three years later, I wouldn’t change a thing.  

There is nothing quite seeing one of your clients hit a milestone or overcome a limiting belief.  It is G-O-L-D.  

FASTer Way to Fat Loss testamonial
Working mom testamonial

Who would I recommend become a coach with the FASTer Way to Fat Loss?

  • Registered Dietitians who works in a clinical setting who want’s to diversify client base.  Or maybe you’re an RD that wants to get out of clinical all together?
  • Do you want to pivot to working with motivated clients?  
  • Are you an RD entrepreneur who is starting out and wants to make a bigger impact.
  • Wellness professionals who have the knowledge, but need the business support to get started. 
  • A personal trainer who has the fitness expertise, but needs the proper nutrition support that is correct and sound!    

If you are a nutrition or wellness professional that wants to make additional income, this post is for you!  

Turn your passion into profit

Blending Passion with Income 

Convergence is a beautiful thing, especially when your passion for nutrition intersects with the potential for earning income. The median annual wage for a dietitian or nutritionist is $71,000.1  That’s the median, meaning many RD’s are making much less. By becoming a Faster Way coach, you unlock a great way to do just that (and more). Not only do you get to witness incredible health transformations everyday, but you also get compensated for your commitment and expertise in coaching clients through the program.  So how much can you make?  Sky is the limit really.  Check out this income calculator tool to get an idea of what you could make in a side hustle or in a full time commitment.  

Calculate your income

Is this passive income?

No, as a coach with the FASTer Way to Fat Loss, you are paid to coach clients through the six week program and on an ongoing basis when they go into membership.  This is an active and ongoing commitment to leverage your nutrition knowledge and coach clients with healthy recipes, tweaking macros, learning balance and educating clients on a daily or weekly basis.  (Totally different than patient care!)

THE FASTER WAY TO FAT LOSS COACHING CERTIFICATION HAS ONE PURPOSE:
To empower you to become the best nutrition and fitness coach using the most effective program on the market so you can help your clients get incredible, sustainable results while you earn a significant income.

All of the right tools to do the job

Imagine having an online course, digital products like lead generators, and social media marketing strategies at your fingertips. With Faster Way, you’re not just dabbling in an extra gig; while it could be your hobby, you’re actually growing a scalable online business. When I logged into the coach portal for the first time, I was really impressed with the amount of resources available.  Literally everything I wanted to know was at my fingertips. But more importantly, the infrastructure to run a business is already set up. Once I signed on to become a coach, it’s like I received a business in a box and could hit the ground running.  

For example:  

  • coding on the back end
  • all the financials are automated from clients, and to you
  • a back office login to keep leads, income, reports organized
  • tools like macro tracker, meal plans, and workouts that synergistic and customizable
  • macro tool for nutrition analysis
  • Did I mention that the program works?  

Literally all of the little things that you need have already been thought of, and they’re at your fingertips!

Read more about the initial six week program here.  

A Source of Joy and Personal Growth 

From personal experience—I can tell you, there’s little that compares with the satisfaction of guiding real, everyday women towards sustainable health solutions and if you’re a health professional, I know you know it’s true. The FASTer Way program is technically virtual, but you can bring it to the real world in a lot of ways.  Partner with a local grocery stores, bike shop or coffee shop to add value in a small group for these businesses.  You can put as much work into it as you want to, and you have the ability as a dietitian to discuss you’re passion nutrition topics with your clients.  Some FASTer Way to Fat Loss coaches incorporate the program into their private nutrition practice offerings while others exclusively promote the FASTer Way to Fat Loss.  

Unbeatable Support

Fruit smoothie kale, arugula, berries

You’re not going into this alone. I will help you, and the FASTer Way team will support you every step of the way. Benefit from tools and resources crafted to boost your personal growth and professional development. From meal plans, workouts and a central app to a back office manager, comprehensive coach portal and ongoing trainings, you will have everything you need to succeed.  

Harness Your Expertise 

Leverage your nutrition knowledge in ways traditional dietetic roles may not allow. Personally I love that we focus on whole food nutrition while incorporating fitness and mindset.  With the FASTer Way you get the benefit of a nutrition program developed by dietitians WITH the expertise from trainers to pair diet and exercise to build healthy longterm habits with your clients.  

Flexible Schedule

Benefit from a flexible schedule that tailors to your time management needs. Whether it’s a supplement to your full time job or a transition to entrepreneurship, Faster Way gives you the control to pace your growth and client engagements on your own time.  

person holding phone taking picture of served food

Is Social Media Required?

Truthfully, you don’t even need social media to get new clients.  If you’re a dietitian, you know, once you tell someone what you do – you get all the details, and inevitably you’re asked for a meal plan!  Welp- the FASTer Way offers a solution that can turn those conversations into extra income.  But it doen’t hurt to have a social media presence. Many coaches start from scratch with Instagram, a brand new youtube channel, an email list or simply dedicated blog posts.  Whichever platform you use to communicate to your ideal client, is where you will start.  And a lot of times this changes as time goes on.  

The First Step Towards a Full-Time Passion 

If that little voice is in the back of your head too. Read more about certification here.  It’s a great place to start thinking about your business plan and to find out if it’s the right place for you!  As I continue with the FASTer Way, I often think back to our ShopRite User Group days.  All 50-150 dietitians getting together once a month to share best practices and learn from each other.  The FASTer Way is user group on steroids.  IYKYK 🙂

If you’re ready to redefine your career or to become a side hustler, then this opportunity is for you!  

Your expertise is needed, wanted, and can be lucratively rewarded. Coaching with Faster Way to Fat Loss isn’t just a profitable prospect; it’s a substantial move towards a more fulfilled, impactful professional life. 

More on coach certification

References

1. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291031.htm

About Me

I’m Melanie.

I’m a chef, registered dietitian, foodie, wife and mom.
If you’re looking for quick and healthy meal inspiration that supports your health goals while feeding the rest of your family (including the kiddoes) well, then you’ve come to the right place!

Melanie Marcus Selfie
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Low-carb & delicious Cheesy Cabbage Pizza recipe

Pizzas portioned out on plate

Who says pizza can’t be both delicious and healthy? Last night, I decided to put a creative spin on pizza by using cabbage as the crust.  

Cabbage as a pizza base may sound unusual, but these thick slices of low-carb deliciousness are not only satisfying but also packed with vitamin C, aiding weight loss (because they’re low calorie) and supporting immune systems thanks to their prebiotic fiber. Plus, it aligns perfectly with a whole foods approach to nutrition that I teach in my weight loss program – The FASTer Way to Fat Loss. The fact is, this unique take on pizza is perfect for your next week’s menu rotation—especially if you’re looking to keep things tasty and nutrient-rich.  Did I mention cabbage is likely the most affordable vegetable at the market?  

Jump to Recipe

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Melanie Marcus FASTer Way to Fat Loss Coach

Ingredients:

  • Thick slices of green cabbage or red cabbage (I’ve tried both and they’re great)
  • 1/4 cup marinara sauce or tomato sauce per slice(Recommended brand: Rao’s)
  • 1/2 oz shredded mozzarella cheese per slice
  • Toppings of choice (we like turkey pepperoni)
  • Olive oil spray
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional toppings: green onions, cherry tomatoes, garlic powder, fresh basil, mushrooms, pineapple and left over ham.  Sky’s the limit!  
Jump to Recipe
image of cabbage pizzas on sheet pan

Step-By-Step Guide:

Preparing Your Cabbage Base:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare your baking tray.
  2. Cut your red cabbage into 3/4 inch slice rounds that will form the bases of your pizza.
  3. Lay them on a baking sheet and spray each slice with olive oil.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to infuse the slices with flavor.
  5. Roast in the oven until they reach a delectable golden brown, about 20 minutes.

Adding the Toppings:

  1. Once the first roast is done, carefully flip over each cabbage steaks.
  2. Spoon 1/4 cup of the marinara sauce over each round, creating a tomato mixture that mirrors traditional pizza.
  3. Sprinkle each with 1/2 oz of finely shredded mozzarella cheese.
  4. Add the turkey pepperoni or any other bite-sized pieces of your preferred toppings.
  5. Optional: For a burst of fresh taste, add green onions, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of garlic powder or oregano.
  6. Return to the oven and bake at medium heat for another 10-15 minutes or until the cheese bubbles into melted perfection.

Serving:

  1. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
  2. Serve hot.
Pizzas portioned out on plate

Why Cabbage Pizza?

The beauty of this cabbage pizza lies in its simplicity. With only three core ingredients, it takes the hassle out of dinner prep. Cabbage is a powerhouse vegetable, making these pizzas ideal for those on a keto diet, low carb or even carb-cycling, providing essential nutrients with minimal g fat.  

Because we’re baking the cabbage rather than frying, it retains much of its nutritional value. And thanks to cabbage’s flexibility, it pairs beautifully with nearly any topping. 

If you’re in meal prep mode, these pizzas are convenient to reheat and can make great quick lunches throughout the week. Plus, for anyone interested in weight management without compromising on taste, swapping your traditional pizza base with cabbage might just be the tip you’ve been looking for.

Social media platforms like TikTok have sparked a trend for innovative, health-focused recipes, and this cabbage pizza is sure to join the ranks as a great recipe for low carb meals.

Remember, when it comes to cooking, the joy is in the experiment. Swap ingredients, try new toppings, and find what works best for you and your dietary needs.

How they fit into macros

One 3/4 inch pizza with 1/4 cup marinara and 1/2 oz mozzarella cheese provides:

107 Calories

8g Carbohydrate

3g Fiber

6g Fat

6g Protein

Log your toppings individually to customize for your macros!

Pizzas portioned out on plate

Cabbage Pizza

3 ingredients and simple. Need I say more?
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Cook Time 4 minutes
Course Main Course
Servings 4
Calories 107 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Sheetpan lined

Ingredients
  

  • 1 head cabbage sliced into 3/4 inch pieces
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 2 oz mozzarella cheese shredded

Instructions
 

  • Lay cabbage slices onto sheet pan. Spray both sides with olive oil spray. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Bake at 400F for 20 minutes.
  • Flip cabbage and layer with sauce, cheese and toppings.
  • Cook for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and melted.

Nutrition

Calories: 107kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 6gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 11mgSodium: 420mgPotassium: 579mgFiber: 3gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 583IUVitamin C: 87mgCalcium: 171mgIron: 2mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

About Me

I’m Melanie.

I’m a chef, registered dietitian, foodie, wife and mom.
If you’re looking for quick and healthy meal inspiration that supports your health goals while feeding the rest of your family (including the kiddoes) well, then you’ve come to the right place!

Melanie Marcus Selfie
Articles/

Healthy Costco Grocery Haul with a Registered Dietitian

Costco warehouse Sheffield

Do you enjoy shopping at Costco as much as I do? I visit my local Harris Teeter or Trader Joe grocery store several times a week, but there’s something special about a Costco run. The wide aisles filled with fresh produce and seasonal favorites offer a lot of healthy options if you’re aiming for a balanced lifestyle. I applied for Costco membership with the Mooresville, NC store when they opened and have never looked back.

As a registered dietitian, I make biweekly visits to stock up on family favorites and household essentials. Today, I’m sharing my favorite Costco picks that are whole foods and staples in my pantry and fridge. These items taste great and make creating healthy (& macro friendly) meals much simpler, especially on busy days. Whether you’re looking for a great source of protein, healthy fats, or whole grains, I’ve got you covered. If you’re following the FASTer Way with me, you’ll definitely want save this post to refer back to!

Join my next round of the FASTer Way

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Start Today
Melanie Marcus FASTer Way to Fat Loss Coach

In the FASTer Way program I coach, we emphasize the importance of balanced and satisfying meals. The goal is to include a mix of protein, fiber, and healthy fats in every meal to keep you feeling full and energized. That’s why I’ve categorized my list into healthy fats, fiber, protein, and healthy carbs. Let me know what questions you have!

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Heart-Healthy Fats

For a good source of fat, which can help manage heart disease, help keep you full and on track to hit your macro targets on low carb days, I’ve got a few must-haves:

  • Avocado Mash: Squeeze some lime juice on this perfect addition to any meal! It’s full of those heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and essential nutrients; a great way to satisfy hunger.
  • Kirkland Fancy Mixed Nuts: These are chock-full of healthy fatty-acids and they make a perfect quick snack when paired with a source of lean protein.  Protein shake maybe?
  • Kirkland Basil Pesto: Toss it with some whole-grain pasta, miracle noodles or drizzle over grilled veggies; either way, you’re getting those heart-healthy fats and a ton of flavor.  I particularly love this pesto because it doesn’t have that weird aftertaste that other store bought brands have. Normally, I would make my own pesto- but this one tastes so good, I don’t have to!
  • Hummus Cups: Snacks are all set for the week’s meal prep with these protein and plant-based goodies.
  • Kirkland Nut Butters:  Whichever you choose, just be sure that there is little to no added sugar!
  • Costco Extra Virgin Olive Oil:  Whether we’re sautéing vegetables or making salad dressings, this high quality oil is always in my cabinet.  I even use it in baking sometimes 🙂

Protein Powerhouses

Looking for protein options? Here’s what I keep in my cart:

  • Frozen Atlantic Salmon Fillets: With enough omega-3 fatty acids to make any heart happy, Costco’s salmon is a staple for my healthy meals. I usually make these on Monday nights for a quick 14 minute meal. Read more about it here!
  • Greenridge Farms Beef Sticks: These are a fan favorite.  They remind my of the kabanos Polish sausage that my father would bring home from Brooklyn when I was a kid. My children love these for school lunches and they fit really well into my macros on a low carb day.  You can find them in the refrigerated protein section.  
  • Ground Bison: This high-quality meat with essential amino acids is a super lean substitute for your traditional ground beef.  We like to use it for burgers, taco night or chili.  
  • Rotisserie Chicken Breast:  Convenience meets nutrition with this high-protein, minimal fuss choice.  It’s ready for you to simply serve with dinner, or make chicken salad with.  Don’t forget to make your own broth after! While you can get the whole chicken already cooked, they sell the large packages of precooked and pulled chicken in the prepared foods area.
  • Bare Chicken Nuggets: These are the famous nuggets that taste like the Chick-fil-A nuggets.  My children love them and they’re my favorite to add to my signature salad too.  If you follow my IG stories, you know I eat it a few times a week!  They make for quick family meals that keep everyone happy!
  • Built Puff Protein Bars:  These are a collagen protein bar that are dipped in real chocolate, so if you have a sweet tooth like me – these satisfy it.  They have a marshmallowish type center, they’re delicious and have 17 grams of protein per serving!
  • Boiled Eggs:  I have always, always, always boiled my own eggs.  But Costco sells them already peeled and packaged in 2’s which takes less time and brainpower when packing food for the-go.

Fiber-Filled Finds

Reaching your daily value for fiber is no joke.  That’s 25 or 38g respectively for women and men.  And Costco makes sure I hit that target with:

  • Kirkland Rolled Oats: With a hearty bowl of oats; packing in grams of fiber and whole grains.
  • Black Beans:  I like to have these on hand to mix into salsa or add to taco meat for extra fiber.  
  • Kirkland Signature Quinoa: Whether you’re into brown rice bowls or trending TikTok recipes, these are fiber-rich (and protein) and full of flavor and an easy substitute for rice. I like to cook one cup of quinoa with 1.5 cups of water and then divide into 4 portions to eat sweet or savory later in the week.
  • Cauliflower Rice: Perfect for side dishes, adding to stir-fries, even to smoothies for a boost of micronutrients and fiber. Easy, delicious, and nutritious!
  • Benefiber: If you’re traveling, or if your diet is light on fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains it’s not a bad idea to take a fiber supplement to support your gut health.
  • Frozen Broccoli: We actually really like Kirkland frozen broccoli. One large package has several smaller bags inside, so you can take one out, microwave it and not have extra broccoli fall out all over the freezer. One bag is perfect for our family dinner with a little extra to spare for the next day’s lunch.

Quick & Healthy Carbohydrates

Complex carbs provide our bodies with sustained energy, so I’ve got the inside scoop on the best ones:

  • Dave’s Killer Bread:  This is one of our favorite whole-grain bread options.  They sell it in a two pack, and they are easy to freeze for future use.  
  • Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers: Whether it’s for a sandwich or a charcuterie board, these are great options.
  • Kirkland Signature Organic Blueberries (frozen): Fruits are nature’s candy, packed with vitamins, essential for those who love dried fruit and berries.

Other Costco hall-of-famers:

  • Raos Sauce:  Whether it’s for pasta night with tomato sauce or a creamy curry, these are a good addition to your next meal.
  • Kirkland Almond Milk: These boxes are very handy to have in the pantry for last minute smoothies or baking.
  • Kombucha: Stay hydrated and gut-happy with these delightful beverages.

Check these items out during your next Costco haul; and let me know what favorites I missed! Remember, the key to a balanced diet is a mix of macronutrients and flavors to keep your body nourished and satisfied.

— Melanie Marcus MA RD, your guide to smarter grocery shopping and easier macro friendly meals.

About Me

I’m Melanie.

I’m a chef, registered dietitian, foodie, wife and mom.
If you’re looking for quick and healthy meal inspiration that supports your health goals while feeding the rest of your family (including the kiddoes) well, then you’ve come to the right place!

Melanie Marcus Selfie
Articles/

Will Tiktok’s oatzempic trend help you lose weight?

strawberry on table top near white ceramic bowl

As a registered dietitian, I can’t help but share my thoughts when a new trend hits my instagram.  The latest is the rise of TikTok’s oatzempic trend for weight loss. It’s called the “Oatzempic” challenge—a catchy name for a homemade smoothie purportedly offering benefits similar to the popular weight loss drug Ozempic. So lets get into it.  Is this weight loss hack the newest weight loss tonic that you’ve been looking for?

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What Is the Oatzempic Trend?

The Oatzempic trend involves blending a cup of oats with a cup of water, a squeeze of lime juice, and sometimes a dash of cinnamon to create a gel-like substance. The name “Oatzempic” derives from its comparison to Ozempic, a diabetes medication often prescribed for weight loss, playing on a “budget ozempic” alternative. Dr. Tommy Martin, a Physician, and Karina Chiddo, a TikTok influencer, are among the many TikTok users who have contributed to the trend’s popularity.

Some participants claim that drinking this oat-heavy concoction leads to rapid weight loss. They feel that swapping a high-calorie breakfast for the Oatzempic drink results in a calorie deficit and therefore pounds of weight loss.

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Start Today
Melanie Marcus FASTer Way to Fat Loss Coach

Dissecting the Oatzempic Recipe

Before we get into the effects, what exactly is this oat-based drink?

1.  Oats –  Whole grains that contain a type of soluble fiber, which can help manage blood sugar levels and promote gut health according to the New England Journal of Medicine. 

2.  Water

3. Lime juice

The blend of oatmeal and lime juice creates a smoothie that allegedly mimics the feeling of fullness provided by the GLP-1 hormone, which is what Ozempic, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, targets.

However, the scientific evidence supporting the Oatzempic drink as a weight management tool remains as scarce as high-fiber foods in a fad diet. Longterm healthy habits will always win over the fad diets. 

Rolled oats on white background

Impact of Oatzmpic drink

Though the Oatzempic trend boasts the body’s hormonal changes and reduced food intake through a feeling of fullness, I would caution against expecting dramatic weight loss similar to clinical trials with actual diabetes drugs. While sustainable weight loss is often gradual and involves a balance of physical activity and fewer calories over time, TikTok’s latest smoothie craze promises an easy solution to a complex health issue.

Social media users are often drawn to the allure of quick weight loss. Replacing whole meals with something like the Oatzempic recipe could lead to deficiencies in other valuable nutrients found in a balanced diet, such as lean proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins.

The Verdict on the Oatzempic Recipe

Despite its popularity, the Oatzempic drink is unlikely to be a safe or healthy long term way to achieve substantial weight loss in the long term. Plus, there are much tastier ways to consume a cup of oatmeal. 

Simple 3 Ingredient Banana Oatmeal Cookies

How to cook oatmeal in the microwave without the mess

Summary 

Ultimately, the Oatzempic trend reflects the chronic desire for rapid and massive weight loss through seemingly simple and budget-friendly solutions. But as a general rule of thumb in women’s health and beyond, meaningful weight loss and health improvements come from a mixture of diet, consistent physical activity, and often, changes to long-established habits rather than a quick fix.  Incorporating well researched strategies such as intermittent fasting and carb cycling along with a healthy diet right in whole unprocessed foods is the best way to get the weight loss and health benefits you’ve been looking for.  

The Oatzempic craze serves as a reminder that engaging in social media health trends without thorough research or professional guidance can lead to more harm than benefit. Healthier choices, consulting medical professionals, especially if one has a medical condition, and setting realistic goals are the keystones for genuine, sustainable weight loss.

Remember, when it comes to managing your weight, there are no magical drinks—a balanced diet, regular exercise, and a commitment to making healthier choices in the long run are the tried and true ingredients for success.

If you want to lose weight sustainably, for the long term. Check out more about the faster way to fast loss. Just six weeks to a new you!

About Me

I’m Melanie.

I’m a chef, registered dietitian, foodie, wife and mom.
If you’re looking for quick and healthy meal inspiration that supports your health goals while feeding the rest of your family (including the kiddoes) well, then you’ve come to the right place!

Melanie Marcus Selfie
Articles/

Kid-friendly + Easy baked Turkey Meatball recipe

If you know me, you know I love my mom’s turkey meatballs.  They’re actually called kotlety, which is Polish for “meatball”.  They’re just downright comforting and very simple to make.  I love them with sauce, sliced cold onto a sandwich or just straight out of the fridge for a quick snack.  IYKYK.  So, honestly, I’m sharing this recipe more for myself, my brother and my sister so all of my nieces and nephew can enjoy and remember these as fondly as I do.  Thanks Mom!

Jump to Recipe

Kid appeal

The best part? This turkey meatball recipe is baked and can be a delicious dinner staple for every age—from younger children with little fingers to picky eaters who only eat one food – this is a strong contender. The flavorful meatballs are a mixture of ground turkey, breadcrumbs, and the secret ingredient, Locatelli Romano, making them perfect for a childhood food and well into adulthood. 

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 3 pounds lean ground turkey
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Locatelli Romano cheese
  • 3/4 cup finely chopped parsley
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1 large egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

About the turkey

I’ve tried this recipe with 85%, 92% and 99% lean ground turkey.  I am always happier with the texture and flavor when I use 85 or 92% lean ground turkey.  Not to mention when I use 99% only, they need much less bake time, and could be done in about 30 minutes.  So while I love a good lean protein option, this one should be saved for low carb day.  I recommend going with 85% lean ground turkey.  

The secret ingredient – Locatelli Romano

We’ve tried making this dish with parmesan cheese in a pinch, and it is simply not the same.  Locatelli Romano cheese has a deep, sharp and salty flavor that literally makes this recipe.  Don’t try to substitute it!  Buy a large chunk and grate with a box grater or microplane when you need it for this recipe.  

​Don’t skimp on the parsley

Let me tell you why.  This recipe has a lot of umami rich ingredients.  With turkey and egg and cheese, it needs the brightness from the parsley and while 3/4 cup chopped seems like a lot (I sometimes add more) and it’s really what makes it such a great recipe.  

A Few ‘Great Ways’ To Serve These Meatballs:

  • Over your favorite pasta with marinara sauce for a quick meal.
  • Paired with sweet potato fries or brown rice and broccoli for a well-balanced plate.
  • Smothered in Rao’s marinara or any tomato sauce you love served on a whole grain roll.
  • Stored in an airtight container, they make for fantastic meal prep options for a quick meal the next day.

Instructions for Making Mom’s Turkey Meatballs:

Jump to Recipe
  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F and line a baking sheet with non-stick parchment sheets or parchment paper for fast cleanup.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients.  Integrating a food processor might seem like an easy way, but some things are best done the traditional way, ensuring the turkey mixture retains its texture.
  3. Into the turkey mixture go the grated Locatelli Romano, breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, and milk. Using a wooden spoon, mix until you’ve got a consistent meatball mixture.
  4. Crack in the egg, and crushed garlic followed by a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix until combined.
  5. Time to shape these simple turkey meatballs! With clean hands or a set of scoopers, form the turkey mixture into perfect balls. For consistent sizes, use a small cookie scoop—it also makes the prep time fly by while keeping my hands clean!
  6. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet ensuring they’re spread out evenly. 
  7. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven until golden and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165 degrees F—this usually takes 50 minutes.

Protein Options

For those who like to tinker in the kitchen, here are different ways to modify this new recipe:

  • Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or lean ground beef.
  • Turn them into paleo turkey meatballs by using almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
  • Hide additional nutrients like finely diced red onion or grated sweet potatoes into the mix for hidden vegetables.
  • Make a double batch of these baked meatballs and store extras in the freezer for an even quicker family meal next time. For other batch cooking ideas, check out this article.

Macros and Nutrition

I broke out the serving for these to one meatball so you can create a serving of 2, 3, 4 or more meatballs to meet your individual macro needs.

When made with 85% lean turkey, one meatball has:

Carb: 1g

Protein: 14g

Fat: 2g

Other Family Favorite recipes to try

1
Three Cheese Baked Ziti with Meat and Hidden Mushrooms
Check out this recipe
2
close up photo of farfalle
Creamy Ricotta Pasta with Veggies and Pine nuts
Check out this recipe
3
salmon on top on lemon slices.
Why I eat leftover salmon straight from the fridge
Check out this recipe

Follow me on IG for more daily inspo in my stories: @miss_nutritious_eats

Mom’s Turkey Meatballs

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Servings 24
Calories 78 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Sheetpan
  • 1 baking dish 9×13

Ingredients
  

  • 3 pounds ground turkey 85% lean
  • 1/3 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup Locatelli Romano cheese grated
  • 3/4 cup parsley chopped
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 clove garlic I use Dorot
  • 1 egg
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Gently combine all ingredient in a large bowl.
  • Use a small ice cream scoop to form into even balls. (about 24)
  • Bake at 375 F for 1 hour.

Nutrition

Calories: 78kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 14gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.5gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 39mgSodium: 57mgPotassium: 188mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 0.2gVitamin A: 190IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 22mgIron: 1mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

About Me

I’m Melanie.

I’m a chef, registered dietitian, foodie, wife and mom.
If you’re looking for quick and healthy meal inspiration that supports your health goals while feeding the rest of your family (including the kiddoes) well, then you’ve come to the right place!

Melanie Marcus Selfie
Articles/

The Best Super Yummy Chicken Dinner Recipe ideas

Chicken marinating in plastic bag

What is better than a go-to chicken recipe that’s a crowd pleaser and macro friendly? I went ahead and pulled together an array of super yummy recipes catered to women looking to feed their families healthy, macro-friendly chicken dinners. These are recipes that I make on re-peat at home. Whether you’re a busy bee seeking quick meals or a picky eater aiming to indulge without the guilt, these chicken breast-centered dishes are delicious and nourishing.

Table of contents

Why Choose Chicken Breasts?

Chicken breasts are a wonderful source of lean protein and are incredibly versatile. If you’re tracking macros, you know lean chicken breast is a great way to hit your protein macro goals without added fat. They can be baked, grilled, pan-seared, or slow-cooked into a variety of dishes that won’t derail your health goals. Plus, using simple ingredients, you can transform this humble poultry cut into a culinary delight that everyone at the table will love.

If you want to know more about how tracking macros can help you reach your health goal, check out this article.

The Only Thing Better Than Quick Chicken Recipes? Healthy Ones!

​Here’s a roundup of a few of my go-to’s

4
Baked Chicken Breasts
skinnytaste.com
Baked Chicken Breasts
Perfect, juicy Baked Chicken Breasts topped with crispy panko-parmesan crumbs are flavorful and delicious!
Check out this recipe
5
Yogurt Curry Chicken Skewers
This recipes reminds me of the chicken, salad and rice plates that I would get in New York. Even easier to make!
Check out this recipe
6
Everything Bagel Chicken Roll-Ups
dole.com
Everything Bagel Chicken Roll-Ups
4 Servings per container
Check out this recipe
7
Chicken Fried Rice
ohsnapmacros.com
Chicken Fried Rice
This Chicken fried rice Recipe is packed with chicken, veggies and basmati rice. This Macro Friendly dish is full of flavors and great for meal prep.
Check out this recipe
8
easy pulled chicken
BBQ Pulled Chicken
This one couldn't be easier. Set it and forget it.
Check out this recipe
9
Macro Friendly Caprese Chicken
julieledbetter.com
Macro Friendly Caprese Chicken
Cook this delicious and macro-friendly caprese chicken! Believe it or not, with just four main ingredients and 30 minutes, you can make this super delicious, and incredibly healthy caprese chicken. With mozzarella, tomato, and fresh basil, it tastes just like an authentic, Italian pizza but you won’
Check out this recipe
10
Herby Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Tenderloins
lillieeatsandtells.com
Herby Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Tenderloins
This Herby Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Tenderloin recipe is a great go-to for your favorite recipes that call for grilled chicken!
Check out this recipe
11
Sweet Potato Chipotle Rotisserie Chicken Skillet
lillieeatsandtells.com
Sweet Potato Chipotle Rotisserie Chicken Skillet
With this sweet potato chipotle rotisserie chicken skillet recipe, your macros will be covered and you’ll still get all the comfort you need.
Check out this recipe
12
Chicken Parmesan Rolls (Pizzeria Style Chicken Rolls)
skinnytaste.com
Chicken Parmesan Rolls (Pizzeria Style Chicken Rolls)
These protein packed Chicken Parmesan Rolls (also know as chicken rolls) are wrapped in my homemade pizza dough with marinara and mozzarella.
Check out this recipe
13
No-Dairy Chicken Alfredo
dole.com
No-Dairy Chicken Alfredo
6 Servings per container
Check out this recipe

Which will you choose?

Healthy dinners don’t have to be synonymous with bland or boring. With these super yummy recipes featuring chicken breasts, you can satisfy every member of the family, including the picky eater at your table. They offer a quick recipe solution when you’re short on time but still want to ensure a nutritious meal.

And remember, while chicken dinners are fabulous, the only thing that might top off your meal perfectly is a scoop of ice cream for dessert (we all need a little treat now and then, after all)!

About Me

I’m Melanie.

I’m a chef, registered dietitian, foodie, wife and mom.
If you’re looking for quick and healthy meal inspiration that supports your health goals while feeding the rest of your family (including the kiddoes) well, then you’ve come to the right place!

Melanie Marcus Selfie
Articles/

A Dietitian’s Harris Teeter Grocery Haul (2024)

Image from the front of Harris Teeter store

Adjusting to grocery shopping in North Carolina has taken some time.  If you’ve been following me for a while, you know that when I lived in New Jersey, I was a ShopRite girl, and could get essentially everything I needed there at a great price.  Now that I’m in North Carolina, not only are the stores different, and pricier, but I’m feeding an entire family (four of us), so I find that I make the rounds from Harris Teeter (HT), Costco, Walmart Marketplace event Trader Joe’s and Aldi depending on where my errands take me.  

But we do shop Harris Teeter most frequently, especially for those last minute dinner pick ups!

When it comes to shopping for healthy food, having a reliable grocery store that stocks a wide variety of nutritious options is such a relief (plus is seems like there is one located every 3 miles!). They have a ton of whole, minimally processed foods and I find they have most of the trending/healthy items that align with contemporary dietary trends, from maintaining blood sugar levels and following a gluten free lifestyle to supporting an anti-inflammatory diet and tracking macros of course! 

In this post I will share my go-to items for each category.  Remember, I don’t do large “stock up” shops at HT.  Generally it’s last minute pick ups, items for a special meal, or I get smaller sizes of new products that I want to try- before I buy in bulk.  

Harris Teeter Produce Department

Produce Selection

The produce section at HT is always in good shape. I shop their produce most frequently because we eat a lot of fruits and vegetables, and I like to get them fresh- or as we need them.  Like most grocery stores, the seasonal and sale items are always in front and they also offer organic produce as well as club size options of the most popular items.  

  • Berries
  • Bananas
  • Mango
  • Pears
  • Pineapple
  • Baby Carrots
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Spinach or Spring Mix
  • Mushrooms
  • Red onion
  • Iceberg lettuce – to replace wraps or for burgers
  • Premade cauliflower rice – especially if on sale
  • Steamable green beans
  • Precut zoodles instead of pasta for low carb days
  • Pre-cut apple slices
  • Pre-cut butternut, or sweet potato
  • Pre-cut mirepoix
  • Locally grown squash, string beans, greens and more during the summer season
  • Seasonal items like sumo citrus or peaches

I also find that when I shop on Tuesday mornings, a ton of the convenience produce items are on sale. So if I need something for dinner, I’ll usually grab something precut or washed as long as I’m going to use it that day.  

Bread, Grains and Substitutions

HT’s offers a variety of whole-grain products are a staple if you’re trying to incorporate high-fiber options. From ancient grains like quinoa to hearty brown rice, to microwaveable rice options and whole grain pasta, they have it all. They also have pasta substitutes that you’ll find right in the pasta aisle.  For example, they have Palmini “pasta” which is a low carb “pasta” made from hearts of palm.  It’s an option to consider if you are following a low carb diet or want to incorporate more plant based meals into your diet.  

  • Quinoa
  • Raos or Barilla Pasta
  • The Harvest Loaf from the bakery is my favorite.  It’s loaded with seeds and toasts up well. 
  • Mission Low Carb Wraps, they’re 40 calories and loaded with fiber.

Lean Proteins 

I find that we  At HT, the meat counter is stocked with choices like skinless chicken breasts, turkey, and lean cuts of beef. If you prefer seafood, HT’s offerings won’t disappoint—including everything from salmon to shrimp offered on a daily basis.

  • Thin sliced chicken breast – for cutlets
  • Thick cut pork chops 
  • 90% lean ground beef
  • 99% lean ground turkey

Gluten-Free & Allergy Friendly products

Living with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease can be a challenge, but HT makes it easier by carrying a bunch of gluten-free.  Most stores have a dedicated aisle too! From pasta to bread, you can find gluten-free alternatives that allow you to enjoy your favorite dishes, worry-free.

For example, these two Catalina Crunch products I first saw at HT and had to try them.  I also tried the chocolate squares breakfast version and didn’t care for it.  But now that I know I like them I usually get the French Toast variety at Costco.  It’s my version of try before you buy.  

  • Catalina Crunch savory snack mix
  • Catalina Crunch French toast squares

Convenient Frozen Foods

Harris Teeter’s frozen foods section is a gold mine of wholesome choices. Here are a few of my favorites.  

  • Steamable edamame
  • Pre-chopped onion
  • Broccoli
  • Spinach or collards
  • Green peas

Dairy Selection

Whether you’re a milk lover, Greek yogurt, or need dairy free alternatives, HT has options. They also have a variety of gourmet and shredded cheeses for that last minute baked ziti or lasagna.  

  • Chobani zero sugar yogurt – is a high protein alternative that is usually on my list.  
  • Fage Total fat free greek yogurt
  • Shredded mozzarella
  • Organic 1% milk – if I’m out from my Costco haul
  • Barista blend Oat Milk creamer

Pantry Staples and Canned Items

Unless there’s a sale, I usually save stocking up on pantry items like beans, legumes, and tomatoes at Costco.

That said, I am usually picking up ingredients like beans for chili, canned corn for cowboy caviar, or canned tomatoes for sauce.  Basically anything that comes up in a recipe that I need in a small amount.

  • Goya chickpeas
  • Simple Mills crackers
  • 100 calories chocolate almond packs
  • canned tomatoes
  • canned corn
  • tomato paste

Kids Lunch Items

  • Boars Head (BH) Lower sodium ham
  • BH yellow American cheese
  • Kings Hawaiian Buns
  • Sun Butter
  • Chocolate covered raisins
  • Fruit snacks
  • Pre-sliced apples
  • Grapes
  • Unsweetened applesauce cups

The HT App

Personally, I like to use the grocery list function in the HT App.  It’s easy to review the weekly ad to create a shopping list or to go back to previous orders to add items you have on repeat to your current list.  Most of the time, timeslots for pick up are available the next day making it very convenient to get what you need in as little time as possible.  

As you can see, I shop for generally whole foods and to grab last minute ingredients for weekly menus.  While it’s a little bit more expensive than Walmart Market, TJ’s or Costco, it’s very convenient and always has what we need.  Which is why we shop there several times a week!  

What am I forgetting, let me know in the comments!

About Me

I’m Melanie.

I’m a chef, registered dietitian, foodie, wife and mom.
If you’re looking for quick and healthy meal inspiration that supports your health goals while feeding the rest of your family (including the kiddoes) well, then you’ve come to the right place!

Melanie Marcus Selfie
Articles/

Date night review: Fox & Falcon Southpark Charlotte

Fox and Falcon in google search bar

If you know me, you know I have a passion for food.  And my husband and I both really enjoy a good meal. Having lived and worked around Manhattan, we always had a lot of fun trying new places (before kids, and before we moved to Charlotte).  While less often, we still try to get out and try new places in the Charlotte culinary scene.  So… I thought I’d start sharing about some of the places we’ve tried lately.

Last weekend we snuck down to trendy South Park area of Charlotte, North Carolina, to check out the Fox & Falcon by David Burke. It’s over at 4905 Ashley Park Lane near the South Park Mall and it’s website describes it as modern steakhouse fare. I’m familiar with Burke’s restaurants from living in New Jersey, and was excited because he has a reputation for offering a culinary experience.

So, I met Andy over in the Southpark area of Charlotte around 8:30 after a girls happy hour.  If you’ve never been there before, it’s in a bit of a residential area with apartment buildings around it.  The garage nearby says it’s only for residents and there is on street parking.  I did not see valet available, so maybe just plan for that if it’s a busy night!  

Table of contents

The Ambiance

Walking in, the restaurant’s ambiance spoke volumes—with bold wallcoverings, neutral colors complimenting woody trusses and brick columns, and soft illumination from salt rocks, created a really cool sophisticated vibe. There was lots to look at from both the bar and table including a somewhat open kitchen so you could see the line area. When you walk in, it really looks like a fun place for a birthday dinner or romantic date night.  

The Drinks

I had a super cold vodka martini with blue cheese olives.  It was cold (it didn’t have ice pieces in it) but cold enough and the olives were on point!  

Andy usually has a regular vodka martini or a negroni, before enjoying wine with dinner.  That said – it was really interesting to see a NO ABV and LOW ABV section of the drinks menu. They were intriguing with their use of herbs, 0 proof alcohol and wine syrup.  

The Menu

At first glance, there was a lot to choose from on the menu.  Appetizers included signature Clothesline Bacon, Lobster Dumplings, Tuna & Salmon Tartare, Gruyere Popovers and Pretzel Crab Cake to name a few.  There were also a variety of mains offered covering everything from pasta to fish and obviously steak. 

What we ordered

Starter

  • (6) oysters

Salad

  • Classic Caesar Salad, split

Appetizer

  • Tuna & Salmon Tartare
  • Pretzel Crab Cake

Mains

  • 16 oz Prime Rib **
  • Halibut T-Bone

Sides

  • Truffle Fries

Dessert

  • Apple Pie**
  • Walnut Parfait

**What they ran out of

This was a recurring and unfortunate theme.  Upon sitting at 8:30 on a Saturday night, the server went over the prime cuts of beef and let us know that the lamb** from the menu was no longer available.  When the waiter came back he sold on the 16oz ribeye** and learned that they were out of that too (as well as the lobster mac and cheese). So my husband upgraded to the 20oz ribeye**.  After all of the appetizers were brought over, we were informed that the 20oz rib eye** was no longer available.  Which was odd because the dining room wasn’t packed.  It was busy, there was a good vibe, but I’d say at least 1/3 of the restaurant was empty.  

So there were no specials, and the upscale modern steakhouse ran out of it’s signature rib eye.  Instead Andy went with the NY Strip. 

The manager apologized and offered the steak and desserts to us to make up for it.  

We also learned that while they have a full bar, they don’t serve Frangelico which is Andy’s go-to after dinner drink.

The Service

The service was efficient but felt slightly rushed, more like a relay race than a romantic leisurely dinner for two.  At one point, I thought I was at an all you could eat buffet, because the oysters, salad and appetizers were all served at the same time! It was slightly comical (as a dietitian) because I don’t think there was any room on the table when all 5 plates were put down at the same time. We were there to relax and have a couple of drinks with dinner.  But if we wanted to, we could have probably been in and out in an hour.  

I would have preferred to have the meal paced out so we could eat food at the proper temperature and not feel like we were gorging!  It also made me wonder, would this have happened at the eight-seat chef’s table that is available for reservation?

Food Quality

In true steakhouse fashion, the menu selections teetered on decadent. Yet, as already mentioned item after item—the lamb, the 16oz rib eye, even the celebrated apple pie for dessert—were unavailable.

One thing stood out to us.  Nearly all of the appetizers came out warm – not hot or cold.  The oysters were not cold, cool at best while the tartare felt like it actually was set under a heat lamp before coming to the table.  The flavors were good, but the temperature felt off.  

The pretzel-crust crab cake was super tasty, but didn’t feel hot. 

My halibut on the bone was really different.  I’ve never seen fish presented that way.  It was served over ratatouille and had a good mix of vegetables and protein.  It was Mediterranean inspired and the portion was significant.  I took half home and it reheated well :).  

Truffle fries tasted more like parmesan and were super salty.  

While Andy’s strip steak wasn’t great.  It had a noticeable ring of fat, but it was cooked medium as he requested.  

The Walnut Trifle for dessert was right up my alley.  It was served in a coup glass, super rich and creamy.  I really enjoyed it, but I know Andy would have loved apple pie!  It’s his favorite.  

Walnut Trifle

And sometimes, I hate that I’m so detail oriented, but I overheard the server go take a dessert order for an 8 top next to us and they ordered two apple pie desserts.  After he put that order in, he let us know they were out of the apple pie. Maybe it’s just me, but when I waited tables, if I had a party that had to speak to the manager, I’d just make sure I did what I could to make the rest of the evening seamless.  I probably would have taken our dessert order before the 8 top!  

Beverage Offerings

The bar has a carefully crafted cocktail menu, as well as a full NO ABV (mocktail list!) which includes drinks like the Faux & Falcon which is a combination of ginger beer and NA red wine syrup.  They also boast a thoughtfully curated wine list plus sake and draught beers. That said, they don’t have Frangelico as part of their full bar offering.  

Meal Timing

Overall needs improvement.  My husband sold wine for some time in New York and myself having worked in several restaurants, we both know how the pace of the meal improves the guest experience, but also helps improve sales!  We easily would have had another round of drinks if we weren’t rushed through our first course.  

How I handle macros

 In the FASTer Way we have a saying, “memories over macros”.  And I apply this to holidays or eating occasions where I want to be present and not track every element of the meal.  Instead I look at my day in the morning and strategically choose foods that are lower in fats and higher in proteins so that I can enjoy the richer foods while dining out.

Before a big date night, I’l usually have a protein shake, egg white and veggie omelette or maybe this two ingredient soup with a scoop of collagen to get my protein up!

Check out this page if you want to know more.

Overall Impression

As a culinary trained dietitian and foodie, the menu was interesting and had great variety.  We wish everything was available so we could have tried the items we initially ordered. Before arriving, the online menu drove me in with the Branzino which wasn’t offered when we were there, but I loved the balance of my halibut dish, it was light and flavorful and fit perfectly with my macro protein goal!  

Overall it was a bit disappointing – especially for the price.  We had tried Red Salt by celebrity chef David Burke and while Southern cuisine isn’t my favorite, I thought both the food and the service were excellent there.  I’ve also had a level of enthusiasm for Burke’s Port City Club takeover since it’s nearby, but now I’m on the fence!

We kind of agreed that it seemed as though an intentional decision was made to buy and prep food in order to run out and not have food waste.  Which would be a fine strategy if it weren’t an elevated modern steakhouse menu.

Would we go back?

Probably not for date night. It certainly has potential, but when you weigh the cost, travel time to get there and ability to deliver on offerings from the menu, we felt it was a little unpredictable given our first experience.  If I was in the Southpark area, and were to meet a friend for a drink, I could see myself meeting there to check out the bar bites menu with a glass of wine or their NO ABV section of the cocktail menu but I wouldn’t reserve a table again.  

​Where are you eating in and around Charlotte?  We want to go check it out too!

About Me

I’m Melanie.

I’m a chef, registered dietitian, foodie, wife and mom.
If you’re looking for quick and healthy meal inspiration that supports your health goals while feeding the rest of your family (including the kiddoes) well, then you’ve come to the right place!

Melanie Marcus Selfie
Articles/

How to Naturally Dye Easter Eggs with up-cycled ingredients

eggs on a tray

Easter is a special time of year known for family gatherings, egg hunts, the excitement of Easter baskets filled with goodies and of course renewed faith. But have you considered ditching the artificial colors this year for natural Easter egg dyes? It’s an excellent way to get gorgeous, sometimes subdued, sometimes vibrant colors without the chemical dyes. It’s a fantastic opportunity to involve children in a seasonal tradition of creating beautiful Easter egg colors using natural ingredients that would have otherwise been trash. Here’s my easy guide on how to do it.

Table of contents

a variety of colorful foods in boiling water to create dye

Growing up my aunt always colored Easter eggs using different things, but I will always remember a large stock pot filled with onion skins on her kitchen stovetop.   She even used panty hose to experiment with placing herbs or flowers to make unique designs on the eggs.  I always thought it was resourceful and beautiful.  

Materials Needed:

  • A selection of cooked white eggs and brown eggs
  • Natural dye materials: yellow onion skins, red onion skins, purple cabbage, beets, turmeric, paprkia, red zinger tea, raspberries, blueberries, spinach, black coffee
  • White vinegar or lemon juice
  • Water
  • Pots and sauce pan
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Disposable cups or mason jars
  • Slotted spoon

Natural Dyeing Mediums to Consider

You will be amazed with how many different foods can produce a variety of colors.

Produce items

  • Red onion skin – light pink color
  • Yellow onion skin – orange color
  • Spinach – light green color
  • Raspberries – pink color
  • Purple Cabbage – blue/purple color 
  • Red Cabbage – purple color
  • Blueberries – blue color

Spices

  • Paprika – red color
  • Turmeric – yellow color

Beverages

  • Red Zinger Tea – red color
  • Coffee – blackish brown color
  • Tart Cherry Juice – red color

Remember the Ratio

One cup of medium per one cup water.  I usually do 4 cups of water so I have plenty to color several eggs at one time.  

Step 1: Prepare Your Hard-Boiled Eggs

Before you start, make sure you have plenty of hardboiled eggs in either white or brown. If you need more info on that, check out my article on the perfect hard boiled egg. Keep in mind that brown eggs will give you more muted tones when dyed while white eggs can render bright yellow, green eggs, or even blue eggs based on the natural colors you choose. 

Step 2: Create the Natural Dyes 

Natural food dyes in jars

For a true homemade dye, select the natural ingredients you want to use. Last year I experimented with a variety of produce to get different colors including  a orange dye from yellow onion skins, purple from red cabbage dye, and green dye from spinach.  

To start, place your items in large mason jars and add enough boiling hot water to cover them. For every cup of water, add the same amount of your chosen plant material and let cool completely.  This will ensure a high concentration of natural colors in the dye pot.

For spices like turmeric, mix one tablespoon of spice with a cup of water. If you’re using coffee or tea bags, brew them as you would if you were going to drink them, but in a high concentration AKA extra strong.

Step 3: Strain and Add Vinegar

Once your dye bath reaches room temperature, use a fine mesh strainer to eliminate any large pieces and pour the fluid back into mason jar. For each cup of natural dye, mix in one tablespoons of vinegar. This step is crucial as the acidity from vinegar helps the egg shells to absorb the natural colors from your homemade dye, ensuring beautiful colors.

Step 4: Dye Your Eggs

Before immersing the eggs, wrap them in various things like silk ties, old pantyhose, or rubber bands for interesting patterns. Or use  a white wax crayon to create unique designs.  Then gently lay your hard-boiled eggs into the natural egg dyes using a slotted spoon.

If you’re using hollow eggs, the process is much the same, but you may need to fill them with a little bit of water to ensure they sink. Leave the eggs in the dye bath in the fridge for a few hours or overnight for more profound depth of color. (I prefer overnight).  The good news is you can check on them occasionally to see if they’ve reached your desired color. These natural options provide various colors, from  bright yellow to blueberry’s deep blue dye.

Step 5: Drying the Eggs

Remove the eggs from the dye and set them on paper towels or a rack to dry. Resist the temptation to wipe them down, as you could rub off the natural colors. Instead, let the natural easter egg dye work its magic as the eggs dry to a wonderful sheen.

I’d love to know how your eggs turned out! Tag me on social media to share your creations!

IG: Miss_nutritious_eats

About Me

I’m Melanie.

I’m a chef, registered dietitian, foodie, wife and mom.
If you’re looking for quick and healthy meal inspiration that supports your health goals while feeding the rest of your family (including the kiddoes) well, then you’ve come to the right place!

Melanie Marcus Selfie