Servings: 6
Total Time: 10 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Calories per Serving: ~95
Macros (per serving): 12g Protein / 3g Net Carbs / 4g Fat / 1g Fiber

Intro

This Creamy High-Protein Herb Dip is the kind of snack that feels indulgent but fits perfectly into a keto, low-carb, and Weight Watchers–friendly lifestyle. It’s thick, cool, and packed with fresh herbs—like a cross between ranch dip and whipped Greek yogurt—yet made with clean, macro-balanced ingredients.

If you’re trying to stay low carb while keeping your protein intake high, this dip is a game changer. It pairs beautifully with crisp veggies, high-protein crackers, or grilled meats, making it a go-to for meal prep, parties, or everyday snacking.

The best part? It takes just 10 minutes to make and stays unbelievably creamy for days.

Look at the Recipe

• Thick, smooth, ultra-creamy texture that holds up on any veggie or cracker
• Fresh herb flavor with garlic, lemon, and cooling yogurt notes
• High-protein, low-carb ingredients that boost fullness and support clean eating goals

Ingredients Needed

Base

• 1 ½ cups plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese
• 1 scoop unflavored or savory whey protein powder

Herbs & Seasoning

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, minced
• 1 clove garlic, grated
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Optional Add-Ins

• 1–2 tsp olive oil for richness (optional for keto; skip for very low WW points)
• Red pepper flakes for a little heat
• Extra herbs for garnish

How to Make Our Creamy High-Protein Herb Dip

1. Blend the base. Add Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and protein powder to a blender or food processor. Blend until silky smooth and thick.
2. Fold in flavor. Transfer the blended mixture to a bowl. Stir in the parsley, dill, chives, garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice until evenly combined.
3. Season to taste. Add salt, pepper, and onion powder. Mix well and adjust lemon or herbs if needed.
4. Chill before serving. Let the dip rest for at least 20 minutes in the fridge so the flavors can bloom and the texture can firm up.
5. Serve and enjoy. Pair with cucumbers, bell peppers, celery, or keto crackers for a high-protein, low-carb snack that satisfies every craving.

Storage & Serving Suggestions

• Refrigeration: Keeps well for 3–4 days in an airtight container.
• Meal Prep: Portion into small containers for easy grab-and-go protein snacks.
• Freezing: Not ideal—dairy separates after thawing.
• Serving Pairings: Veggie sticks, grilled chicken skewers, salmon bites, keto almond crackers.

Tips & FAQs

Can I use only yogurt (no cottage cheese)?
Yes, but cottage cheese adds thickness and extra protein. If skipping it, use a bit more protein powder.

Can this be made dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free Greek-style yogurt and a plant-based protein powder. Texture will be slightly looser.

What herbs work best?
Parsley, dill, and chives are classic, but basil or cilantro work too.

How do I make it richer for keto?
Add 1–2 teaspoons of olive oil or a spoonful of cream cheese.

Is this Weight Watchers friendly?
Absolutely—use nonfat Greek yogurt and skip added oil for minimal points.

Homemade Lemon Water

Ingredients

• 2 Large Lemons: Choose firm, bright yellow lemons.

• 4–6 Cups Water: Filtered or spring water works best.

• Ice: Optional, for serving.

• Optional Sweetener: A small amount of honey or stevia if you find it too tart.

Instructions

1. Wash the Lemons: Since you are putting the slices directly into the water, scrub the skin thoroughly to remove any wax or residue.

2. Slice: Cut one lemon into thin rounds.

3. Juice: Squeeze the juice of the second lemon into your pitcher.

4. Combine: Add the lemon slices to the pitcher and fill with water.

5. Infuse: Let the pitcher sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before drinking. This allows the lemon oils and juice to blend with the water.

Healthy Tips for Use

• Protect Your Teeth: The acid in lemons can soften tooth enamel. It is best to drink this through a straw or rinse your mouth with plain water afterward.

• Temperature: Many people prefer drinking this warm in the morning to help wake up their digestive system, or ice-cold for refreshment.

• Manage Expectations: While staying hydrated can reduce bloating and help you feel better, sustainable body changes come from a balanced diet and regular physical activity.

 Banana & Apple Silk Smoothie

Prep time: 5 minutes | Servings: 1 large glass

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fruit: * Peel and slice the banana. (Pro tip: use a frozen banana to get that thick, soft-serve consistency seen in the image).

   • Peel the apple and remove the core. Chopping it into small chunks helps it blend smoothly without leaving grainy bits of skin.

2. Layer the Blender: * Add the liquid first, followed by the yogurt, then the fruit. This helps the blender blades catch the liquid and prevents “air pockets.”

3. Blend: * Start on a low speed and gradually increase to high. Blend for about 45–60 seconds until perfectly silky.

   • If it’s too thick: Add a splash more milk.

   • If it’s too thin: Add a few ice cubes or more frozen banana.

4. The “Visual” Touch: * To get the look in the photo, slice 3-4 very thin rounds of banana.

   • Press a few against the inside glass wall before pouring (the suction will hold them there).

   • Pour the smoothie in carefully, then float the remaining slices on top.

Quick Tips for the Best Result

• The Apple: Since apples are fibrous, using a high-powered blender is key. If you don’t have one, you can use unsweetened applesauce (about 1/3 cup) instead of a fresh apple for an even smoother texture.

• The Color: To keep the smoothie that bright, creamy beige color, add a tiny squeeze of lemon juice. This prevents the apple and banana from oxidizing (turning brown) if you don’t drink it immediately.

on the menu: easy CAKE MIX ITALIAN CREAM CAKE This recipe may be cheating a little because it involves a boxed cake mix but I promise after you bake this cake that will not matter. This is easily my favorite cake I have ever made (and I have baked some great ones like this Chocolate Fudge Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting and Chocolate Ganache). I have baked this Easy Italian Cream Cake so many times including several times to give away as gifts. Try this cake soon and let me know what you think.

Ingredients:

• CAKE:
• 1 (16.25-OUNCE) PACKAGE WHITE CAKE MIX
• 3 LARGE EGGS
• 1 1/4 CUPS BUTTERMILK
• 1/4 CUP VEGETABLE OIL
• 1 (3.5-OUNCE) CAN FLAKED COCONUT
• 2/3 CUP CHOPPED PECANS, TOASTED
• 3 TABLESPOON RUM (OPTIONAL)
• CREAM CHEESE FROSTING:
• 1 (8-OUNCE) PACKAGE CREAM CHEESE, SOFTENED
• 1/2 CUP BUTTER OR MARGARINE, SOFTENED
• 1 (16-OUNCE) PACKAGE POWDERED SUGAR
• 2 TEASPOONS VANILLA EXTRACT
• 1 CUP CHOPPED PECANS, TOASTED

HOW TO MAKE CAKE MIX ITALIAN CREAM CAKE:

• BEAT THE FIRST 4 INGREDIENTS AT MEDIUM SPEED WITH AN ELECTRIC MIXER 2 MINUTES. STIR IN COCONUT AND PECANS.
• POUR INTO 3 GREASED AND FLOURED 9-INCH ROUND CAKE PANS. BAKE AT 350°F FOR 15 TO 17 MINUTES OR UNTIL A WOODEN PICK INSERTED IN CENTER COMES OUT CLEAN.
• COOL IN PANS ON WIRE RACKS 10 MINUTES. REMOVE FROM PANS, AND COOL COMPLETELY ON WIRE RACKS.
• SPRINKLE EACH CAKE LAYER EVENLY WITH RUM, IF DESIRED; LET STAND 10 MINUTES.
• SPREAD CREAM CHEESE FROSTING BETWEEN LAYERS AND ON TOP AND SIDES OF CAKE. CHILL 2 HOURS BEFORE SLICING.
• BEAT CREAM CHEESE AND BUTTER AT MEDIUM SPEED WITH AN ELECTRIC MIXER UNTIL SMOOTH. GRADUALLY ADD POWDERED SUGAR, BEATING UNTIL LIGHT AND FLUFFY. STIR IN VANILLA AND PECANS. FROST CAKE WHEN COMPLETELY COOLED.

Prep time: 20 mins | Chill time: 2 hours | Serves: 6–8

​Ingredients

​The Base

• ​8 cups Green cabbage, shredded

• ​2 cups Red cabbage, shredded

• ​2 cups Sweet corn, canned (drained) or fresh grilled
• ​1 large Jalapeño, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
• ​½ cup Green onions, thinly sliced

• ​¼ cup Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
• ​½ cup Cotija cheese (or Feta), crumbled

​The Dressing

• ​1 cup Mayonnaise
• ​1 tbsp Fresh lime juice (approx. ½ a lime)
• ​½ tsp Chili powder
• ​½ tsp Ground black pepper
• ​¼ tsp Salt

​Instructions

​1. Prepare the Dressing

​In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Set this aside for a few minutes; allowing the dressing to sit helps the chili powder bloom and the flavors meld.

​2. Prep the Veggies

​Shred both the green and red cabbage into thin strips using a sharp knife or a food processor. Place them into a large mixing bowl. Add the diced jalapeño and sliced green onions.

​3. Combine

​Add the drained corn and the crumbled Cotija cheese to the cabbage mixture. If you are using fresh corn, grilling it beforehand adds a fantastic smoky “street food” authenticity to the dish.

​4. Dress and Toss

​Pour the dressing over the vegetables. Use tongs or large spoons to toss thoroughly, ensuring every shred of cabbage is lightly coated.

​5. Chill (Crucial Step)

​Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This allows the cabbage to soften slightly and the flavors to penetrate the vegetables. Give it one final toss just before serving to redistribute the dressing.

​Tips for Success

• ​Cheese Subs: If you can’t find Cotija, Feta is the best substitute due to its saltiness and dry texture. Queso Fresco also works but is much milder.
• ​Lighten it Up: You can swap half of the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or Mexican Crema for a tangier, slightly lighter profile.
• ​Smoke it: A pinch of smoked paprika or using chipotle powder instead of standard chili powder adds a lovely campfire depth.

 Melt-in-Your-Mouth Banana Bread

 Ingredients

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

 Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Cream wet ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the mashed bananas. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Add nuts (optional): If using, gently fold in the chopped walnuts.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

 Optional Glaze

For a sweet glaze, you can mix together powdered sugar, milk, and a touch of vanilla extract. Drizzle over the cooled loaf.

Banana Chia & Oat Power Blend

Ingredients

• 1 ripe Banana: Sliced as shown in the first glass.

• 1/4 cup Rolled Oats: Use old-fashioned oats for the best texture.

• 2 tablespoons Chia Seeds: These provide the speckled appearance and thickening power seen in the final result.

• 1 cup Milk of choice: (e.g., Almond, Oat, or Dairy). Use slightly less for a thicker pudding and more for a smoothie.

• Optional Sweetener: 1 teaspoon of maple syrup or honey.

• Optional Flavor: A dash of cinnamon or a drop of vanilla extract.

Preparation Instructions

1. Layer or Mix:

   • For the “Aesthetic” Look: Layer the oats at the bottom, followed by the chia seeds, and top with the sliced bananas as seen in the image.

   • For Practicality: Add all dry ingredients (oats and chia seeds) into a glass or jar.

2. Add Liquid: Pour your chosen milk over the ingredients. If you are making a smoothie, you can add all ingredients to a blender immediately.

3. Hydrate: Stir well to ensure the chia seeds are fully submerged and not clumped together.

4. The Wait (Crucial): * Overnight Oats: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. The chia seeds and oats will absorb the liquid, creating the thick, creamy consistency shown in the second glass.

   • Smoothie: If you prefer the blended version, let the mixture sit for 10 minutes before blending to soften the oats for a smoother texture.

5. Final Touch: Before eating or drinking, give it a good stir. The banana will naturally sweeten the mixture as it sits.

Why This Combination Works

• Chia Seeds: They can absorb up to 10–12 times their weight in liquid, turning the milk into a gel-like pudding.

• Oats: Provide slow-release energy and fiber to keep you full.

• Banana: Acts as a natural sweetener and provides potassium.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Cheesecake Pudding Base:

• 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 ½ cups cold milk
• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)

For the Layers:

• 4 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 ½ cups sliced fresh strawberries
• 1 box Nilla wafers (or any vanilla-flavored cookies)
• Extra whipped topping, for garnish
• Crushed Nilla wafers or strawberry slices, for decoration (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheesecake Pudding Base

1. In a large bowl, whisk the vanilla pudding mix with cold milk until it begins to thicken (about 2 minutes).
2. In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
3. Add sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, mixing until fully incorporated.
4. Fold the prepared pudding into the cream cheese mixture.
5. Gently fold in the whipped topping to keep the texture light and creamy.
6. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the fruit and cookies.

2. Slice the Fruit

• Wash and hull the strawberries, then slice them thinly.
• Peel and slice bananas into ¼-inch rounds.
• For best results, do this just before assembling to prevent browning.

3. Layer the Dessert

1. In a 9×9 dish or trifle bowl, add a base layer of Nilla wafers.
2. Top with a layer of banana slices and strawberry slices.
3. Spoon a generous layer of cheesecake pudding over the fruit.
4. Repeat the layers: wafers, fruit, pudding — until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding.
5. Garnish with whipped topping, crushed wafers, and extra strawberry slices.

4. Chill & Serve

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld and the pudding firm up.
• Serve chilled, scooped into bowls or sliced like a cake if fully set.

A beloved family favorite for over 30 years — perfect for slow Sundays and cozy mornings.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup butter, softened
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1½ cups fresh or frozen blueberries (if frozen, do not thaw)

For the Cinnamon Layer (optional but classic):

• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans), optional

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   Grease a 9×9 baking pan or a bundt pan.
2. Cream the butter and sugar
   In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs, sour cream & vanilla
   Beat in the eggs one at a time.
   Add the sour cream and vanilla and mix until smooth.
4. Whisk dry ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
5. Combine wet and dry
   Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix just until blended.
   Gently fold in the blueberries.
6. Layer (if using cinnamon swirl)
   Spread half the batter in the pan.
   Sprinkle the cinnamon–sugar–nut mixture over it.
   Add the remaining batter and smooth the top.
7. Bake
   Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
   (Bundt pans may take slightly longer.)
8. Cool & serve
   Let cool slightly before serving.
   Delicious warm or at room temperature with coffee.

Notes

• Sour cream keeps this cake tender and moist.
• Blueberries can be swapped with raspberries or chopped apples.
• Doubles beautifully for brunch or holidays.
• Freezes well!

Grandmother’s Golden Potato & Egg Bake

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

This comforting potato and egg dish is inspired by classic potato frittatas and Spanish-style tortillas. It transforms simple ingredients into a warm, filling meal with a golden top and tender inside.

 Ingredients

For the Potatoes

• 3–4 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and sliced into rounds about ¼ inch thick

• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Egg Mixture

• 4–5 large eggs

• ½ cup milk or heavy cream

• 1 bunch green onions (scallions), finely chopped

• ½ red bell pepper, finely diced

• ½ cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack)

• 1 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for a lighter texture)

• A small pinch of salt and pepper

For the Topping

• ½ cup extra shredded cheese

• Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

 Instructions

 Prepare the Potatoes

Warm the Oil
Place a large oven-safe non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the oil and allow it to warm gently.

Cook the Potatoes
Arrange the potato slices in the pan in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Cook the potatoes for about 5–7 minutes per side, until they become lightly golden and tender when tested with a fork.

Arrange Evenly
Once all potatoes are cooked, spread them in an even, slightly overlapping layer across the bottom of the skillet.

 Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the eggs and milk. Whisk until smooth and evenly blended.

Add the chopped green onions, diced red bell pepper, and the first ½ cup of shredded cheese.

Sprinkle in a small pinch of salt and pepper, and stir gently to combine.

 Combine and Cook

Add the Egg Mixture
Slowly pour the egg mixture over the potatoes in the skillet.
Use a spatula to help the eggs settle gently between the potato layers.

Begin on the Stovetop
Cook over low to medium heat for 3–5 minutes, until the edges begin to look set while the center remains soft.

Add Topping and Finish
Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top.

Place the skillet into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10–12 minutes, until:

• The center is fully set

• The top is lightly golden

• The cheese is melted and bubbly

 Serve

Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Let the bake rest for 2 minutes so it slices neatly.

Cut into wedges and serve warm.

 Serving Ideas

• Enjoy with a fresh green salad

• Serve with crusty bread

• Pair with yogurt or sour cream

• Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner

 Helpful Tip (No Oven Option)

If you prefer not to use the oven, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and continue cooking over very low heat for 10–15 minutes, until the eggs are fully set and the cheese on top is melted.