Alex & Sonja: The Culinary Team Behind A Couple Cooks

Introducing Alex and Sonja Overhiser, the energetic pair responsible for the beloved culinary site, A Couple Cooks. As the authors of two renowned cookbooks and busy parents, Alex and Sonja have perfected the skill of harmonizing family responsibilities with their enthusiasm for cooking. Their adventure commenced in 2010 when they established A Couple Cooks to express their affection for straightforward, seasonal recipes and the delight that cooking can infuse into daily life.

Over time, A Couple Cooks has transformed into an extensive resource for home chefs, featuring thousands of unique recipes, valuable cooking insights, and actionable meal planning ideas. Each recipe is carefully designed and photographed by Alex and Sonja, ensuring that their individual flair is apparent in every creation. Their dishes have been tested not only in their own kitchen but also by their children, making them approachable and suitable for cooks across all experience levels.

Alex and Sonja’s guiding principle revolves around the belief that cooking should be straightforward and enjoyable for everyone. They highlight the importance of using fresh, seasonal ingredients to craft meals that are both healthful and delightful. Their website showcases a broad array of recipes, ranging from quick weeknight meals to intricate dishes for special events, accommodating various tastes and dietary needs.

In addition to their digital platform, Alex and Sonja have written two cookbooks that further highlight their culinary knowledge and creativity. These volumes are brimming with recipes that demonstrate their dedication to simplicity and flavor, motivating readers to experiment with new ingredients and methods in their kitchens.

Beyond just recipes, A Couple Cooks provides essential cooking advice and meal planning tactics that assist readers in optimizing their kitchen time. Alex and Sonja recognize the hurdles of balancing busy lives and strive to offer solutions that render home cooking more achievable and pleasurable.

Through A Couple Cooks, Alex and Sonja have cultivated a lively community of food lovers who share their zeal for cooking and healthy eating. Their authentic approach and commitment to excellence have garnered them a devoted audience, making them a reliable source of culinary inspiration.

Whether you are an experienced chef or beginning your culinary path, Alex and Sonja Overhiser welcome you to join them in experiencing the joy of cooking. With their mentorship, you’ll discover that making delicious meals at home can be both fulfilling and enjoyable.

### Winter Cabbage Salad with Mandarins and Cashews

As the festive season draws near, many of us become absorbed in the pleasures of baking and creating celebratory dishes. Yet, amidst the lavishness of treats and decadent meals, there might come a moment when your body seeks something crisp and colorful. This is where the Winter Cabbage Salad with Mandarins and Cashews shines—a charming mix of flavors and textures that is both invigorating and fulfilling.

#### Ingredients

**Spiced Cashews:**
– 1 cup (115 grams) cashews
– 2 tablespoons (25 grams) dark brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

**Salad Assembly:**
– 1 pound (455 grams) red cabbage, thinly sliced or shredded (approximately 4 cups)
– 1 small or half a large fennel bulb, halved and thinly sliced (around 1 cup)
– 3 regular or 4 thin scallions, finely sliced (both green and white parts)
– A small handful of fresh mint leaves, thinly julienned
– 3 mandarins (clementines or other small oranges), separated
– 2 tablespoons (30 ml) white wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– Freshly ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon sumac, plus extra for finishing
– Spiced cashews (from above)

#### Instructions

**Make the Spiced Cashews:**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash the cashews in a colander without shaking off any excess water. This moisture helps the spices stick.
3. In a bowl, mix the cashews with dark brown sugar, kosher salt, cayenne, and smoked paprika. Stir until thoroughly coated. If the mixture seems dry, add a teaspoon of water.
4. Spread the cashews on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they turn darker and slightly toasted. For a crunchier texture, you can roast them for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, but keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Let them cool completely.

**Assemble the Salad:**
1. In a large bowl, mix the red cabbage, fennel, scallions, and mint.
2. Juice one of the mandarins and pour 2 tablespoons of the juice into a small bowl. (Any leftover juice can be enjoyed as a refreshing shot.)
3. To the juice, add white wine vinegar, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and sumac. Whisk to combine.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to mix. Taste and modify seasoning as necessary. If you prepare this in advance, the mixture can marinate for a few hours without getting mushy.
5. Peel the remaining mandarins and separate them into segments. Layer half of the dressed salad mixture on a serving plate, then add half of the mandarin segments and half of the spiced cashews. Repeat with the remaining components.
6. Serve right away and savor the delightful crunch and vivid flavors.

#### Conclusion

This Winter Cabbage Salad with Mandarins and Cashews is not only a visual treat but also an excellent addition to any holiday gathering, pairing beautifully with classic dishes such as latkes or substantial braises. It can also act as a refreshing brunch choice or a personal delight during the bustling season. The mix of crunchy cabbage, sweet mandarins, and spiced cashews creates a gratifying dish that is bound to become a favorite. Relish the explosion of flavors and the invigorating crunch that this salad brings to your winter dining.

Here’s a quick way to prepare canned chickpeas in just 5 minutes for a tasty plant-based protein option! This straightforward canned chickpea recipe serves as a versatile ingredient ideal for grain bowls, salads, and speedy dinners.

Do you want to discover one of my favorite cooking hacks? These simple canned chickpeas will demonstrate how to elevate a plain can of beans into something extraordinary in just 5 minutes!

This recipe is among my top strategies for enjoying healthy plant-based dinners. Honestly, I don’t follow recipes every night. Many evenings, I whip up improvised meals using what I can find in the pantry or fridge, complemented by these easy chickpeas! They’re fantastic for nutritious lunches or as the protein in a grain bowl. Honestly, I could label these as lifesaver chickpeas.

5 Ingredients for This Canned Chickpeas Recipe

Not everyone is aware of how to make chickpeas flavorful. In fact, several people have mentioned that they can’t handle the taste or texture of chickpeas. So here’s a tip to impress those who aren’t fans of chickpeas. It only takes 5 minutes and it transforms the flavor! Here’s what you’ll need to cook canned chickpeas quickly:

– Canned chickpeas: Canned chickpeas are a pantry essential for us: we stock up on them! You can also utilize cooked chickpeas, naturally. Avoid reduced sodium varieties, as they are generally quite bland.
– Fresh garlic: If you’re in a bind, you can substitute with ¼ teaspoon garlic powder. However, fresh garlic provides the best instant flavor.
– Smoked paprika: The smoked Spanish type of paprika contributes the perfect smoky flavor. Use standard paprika if you’re unable to find it.
– Olive oil and salt: Complete the seasoning.

5 Star Reader Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Incredible – just like it was described, this recipe turned a can of chickpeas into a delicious, healthy side dish in 5 minutes. I added cayenne pepper, cilantro, and a generous squeeze of lemon. I plan to experiment with more spices next time!” -Kin

How to Cook Canned Chickpeas

Once your ingredients are ready, it’s a breeze to cook the canned chickpeas. It really takes only 5 minutes. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Mince the garlic. The only cutting necessary is to mince a single garlic clove.
2. Sauté the garlic in olive oil for 1 minute. Cook until fragrant and sizzling beautifully, but before it turns brown. This should take about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
3. Add the canned chickpeas, smoked paprika, and salt; cook for 2 minutes. Heat just until they are warmed through. You’ll be surprised by the rich flavor developed in just a few minutes of cooking.

Scaling for Meal Prep

This recipe is designed for 1 can of canned chickpeas. The number of servings depends on how you plan to serve it. The can usually states it contains 3 servings per container. However, if you’re using it as your main plant-based protein, you might need around 2 servings per container to feel satisfied.

Preparing a meal for four? Simply double this recipe! It also keeps nicely in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days, allowing you to prepare a larger batch and reheat for meals throughout the week.

Serving Suggestions

There are countless ways to enjoy these canned chickpeas for a quick lunch or dinner! Here are some serving ideas:

– With pita triangles & fresh veggies. Slice pita bread into triangles, then add sliced tomatoes and cucumbers with a dash of salt. Elevate it by adding feta cheese.
– As a grain bowl. Combine quinoa or rice, fresh vegetables, kalamata olives, and tahini sauce. Instant Greek bowl!
– With roasted veggies. Roast some vegetables and include these chickpeas as the protein source.
– Over a sweet potato. Bake a sweet potato, then top with tahini sauce along with fresh dill and parsley.
– Chickpea Caesar salad. Incorporate these into a classic Caesar salad for a vegetarian meal.

Nutritional Benefits

Why include canned chickpeas in your diet? This powerful legume is packed with beneficial nutrients. Here are some reasons to appreciate the garbanzo bean:

– High in plant-based protein. 1 cup provides 14.5 grams of protein, which is about 30% of your daily protein needs.
– Excellent fiber source. 1 cup also contains 12.5 grams of fiber, fulfilling about 50% of your daily requirement.
– Can aid in weight management. Chickpeas are low in calorie density, supplying few calories relative to their nutrient content. Their high protein and fiber content also enhance satiety and reduce calorie intake during meals.

Storage and Serving Tips

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

**7-Day Nutritious Meal Plan for December 22-28**

As we enter the festive season, keeping a well-rounded diet may prove difficult. Nonetheless, with a carefully crafted meal plan, you can relish seasonal tastes while remaining healthy. Here is a 7-day meal plan for December 22-28 that emphasizes nutrition, diversity, and flavor.

**Day 1: December 22**

– **Breakfast:** Omelette with Spinach and Feta alongside Whole Grain Toast
– **Lunch:** Salad with Grilled Chicken, Mixed Greens, Cherry Tomatoes, and Balsamic Vinaigrette
– **Dinner:** Salmon Baked with Quinoa and Steamed Broccoli
– **Snack:** Greek Yogurt drizzled with Honey and Almonds

**Day 2: December 23**

– **Breakfast:** Chia Seed Overnight Oats with Berries and Almond Milk
– **Lunch:** Wrap with Turkey and Avocado in a Whole Wheat Tortilla
– **Dinner:** Lentil Soup featuring Carrots and Celery, accompanied by Whole Wheat Bread
– **Snack:** Slices of Apple paired with Peanut Butter

**Day 3: December 24**

– **Breakfast:** Smoothie Bowl made with Spinach, Banana, and Almond Milk, topped with Granola
– **Lunch:** Salad of Quinoa, Black Beans, Corn, and Lime Dressing
– **Dinner:** Chicken Roasted with Herbs, served with Sweet Potatoes and Green Beans
– **Snack:** Hummus with Carrot Sticks

**Day 4: December 25**

– **Breakfast:** Pancakes made from Whole Grain, topped with Fresh Berries and Maple Syrup
– **Lunch:** Bowl of Roasted Vegetables and Chickpeas drizzled with Tahini Dressing
– **Dinner:** Turkey Breast for the Holidays with Cranberry Sauce, served with Mashed Cauliflower and Brussels Sprouts
– **Snack:** Square of Dark Chocolate with Walnuts

**Day 5: December 26**

– **Breakfast:** Toast with Avocado and Poached Egg on Whole Grain Bread
– **Lunch:** Minestrone Soup accompanied by a Mixed Leaf Salad
– **Dinner:** Tacos with Grilled Shrimp, Cabbage Slaw, and Avocado
– **Snack:** Cottage Cheese with Chunks of Pineapple

**Day 6: December 27**

– **Breakfast:** Pudding of Chia Seeds with Mango and Coconut Flakes
– **Lunch:** Bell Peppers Stuffed with Spinach and Quinoa
– **Dinner:** Stir-Fry of Beef with Broccoli and Brown Rice
– **Snack:** Nuts and Dried Fruit Mix

**Day 7: December 28**

– **Breakfast:** Scrambled Eggs served with Smoked Salmon on a Whole Wheat Bagel
– **Lunch:** Caprese Salad featuring Fresh Mozzarella, Tomatoes, Basil, and Balsamic Glaze
– **Dinner:** Vegetarian Chili with Kidney Beans, accompanied by a Cornbread Side
– **Snack:** Almond Butter with Celery Sticks

This meal plan delivers an equilibrium of proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, guaranteeing you receive essential nutrients while enjoying tasty dishes. Modify portion sizes and ingredients based on your dietary preferences and requirements. Remain hydrated and include physical exercise to enhance your healthy eating practices.

Alex & Sonja: The Culinary Team Behind A Couple Cooks

Introducing Alex and Sonja Overhiser, the energetic pair behind the beloved culinary site, A Couple Cooks. As writers of two celebrated cookbooks and busy parents, Alex and Sonja excel in juggling family life with their enthusiasm for cooking. Their adventure began in 2010 when they established A Couple Cooks to share their passion for straightforward, seasonal recipes and the joy that cooking brings into their lives.

Throughout the years, Alex and Sonja have cultivated an extensive collection of thousands of original recipes, each created with dedication and meticulous attention. Their recipes are intended to be approachable and enjoyable, motivating home cooks of all experience levels to embrace the kitchen with self-assurance. Ranging from quick weeknight dinners to intricate weekend banquets, their offerings satisfy a diverse array of tastes and dietary needs.

What distinguishes Alex and Sonja is their dedication to authenticity and excellence. Every recipe featured on A Couple Cooks is authored and photographed by the couple themselves, guaranteeing a personal touch that resonates with their audience. Their culinary innovations are not only visually striking but also rigorously tested, often with assistance from their children, who act as eager taste testers.

Alongside recipes, A Couple Cooks offers useful cooking tips and meal planning suggestions, making it a complete resource for anyone seeking to improve their culinary abilities. Alex and Sonja’s friendly approach and genuine passion for cooking have garnered them a devoted following, motivating countless individuals to discover the pleasures of homemade meals.

Whether you are a seasoned culinary expert or a kitchen beginner, Alex and Sonja’s A Couple Cooks provides a welcoming community where food enthusiasts can unite to celebrate the art of cooking. Through their website, cookbooks, and engaging content, Alex and Sonja consistently motivate and empower others to create delectable, nourishing meals with affection and creativity.