ML Interest Tag: olive-oil

Does Rosemary Oil Actually Help Reverse Postpartum Hair Loss?

by Baby2Body

Baby2Body is the #1 pregnancy wellness app, featuring personalized fitness, nutrition, and wellness plans for fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum. It’s also where you’ll find Bella, an AI coach whose guidance is tailored to your needs, stage, and preferences.

If you’ve been on TikTok recently, you may have noticed a trend for using rosemary hair oil. In fact, the #RosemaryOilForHairGrowth has over 145 million views!

This natural hair care product has been gaining popularity on the social media platform, with people sharing their experiences and results of using rosemary oil on their hair. If you’re experiencing postpartum hair loss or hair changes right now, then we can see why you might be intrigued by this trend. Today, we’re taking a closer look at the rosemary hair oil TikTok trend and exploring the benefits and potential drawbacks of using this product on your hair and how that might impact postpartum hair growth.

Firstly a quick recap: why do women experience postpartum hair loss and changes?

During pregnancy, high estrogen levels keep hairs in their growth phase for longer and delay them from moving into their shedding phase–which means fuller, thicker, and glossier locks for you. After you give birth or stop breastfeeding, your high estrogen levels from pregnancy revert back to normal, and the hairs that were being kept in their growth phase now move into their shedding phase. They rest for several weeks, and then after about 3 months, they fall out. This is why you might shed a large number of strands within a short period of time. This is a very normal occurrence so rest assured, it is just your body’s natural way of adjusting to the changing hormone levels.

Hair shedding can occur from around 3 months postpartum and should slow down around 6 months postpartum. If you find that it doesn’t subside, there may be another underlying issue, and we suggest you speak with your doctor. Do remember that pregnancy, having a newborn, and breastfeeding all take their toll on your body and you must be patient while it resets itself.

Find out more about Postpartum Hair Loss: Why It Happens And What You Can Do.

So, what is rosemary oil?

Rosemary oil is derived from the rosemary plant, which is native to the Mediterranean region. It has been used for centuries for a variety of purposes, including cooking, aromatherapy, and medicinal purposes. When it comes to hair care, rosemary oil is believed to have several benefits. It is said to promote hair growth, strengthen hair, prevent hair loss, and improve overall hair health.

The rosemary hair oil TikTok trend involves using rosemary oil as a hair treatment. The oil is typically applied to the scalp and hair, either on its own or mixed with other ingredients such as coconut oil, olive oil, or castor oil. Users then leave the oil on their hair for a set period of time, usually anywhere from 30 minutes to overnight, before washing it out with shampoo and conditioner.

So, what are the benefits of using rosemary oil for postpartum hair growth?

As mentioned earlier, rosemary oil is believed to promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. This is because it contains compounds that stimulate hair follicles and improve blood circulation to the scalp. Additionally, rosemary oil is said to help strengthen hair, prevent split ends, and improve overall hair health by nourishing and moisturizing the hair and scalp.

Although research around the uses of rosemary oil to treat postpartum hair loss is limited, studies show that rosemary oil may fight patchy hair loss, or alopecia areata. When people with alopecia areata rubbed a rosemary essential oil blend into their scalp each day for seven months, 44% showed improvement in their hair loss compared to only 15% in the control group.

Are there drawbacks to using rosemary oil on your hair?

The effectiveness of rosemary oil as a hair treatment may vary depending on individual hair type, texture, and overall health. Some people may also be allergic to rosemary oil, so it’s important to do a patch test before using the product on your hair – it’s particularly important to be cautious of this during postpartum as you are more prone to experiencing reactions and irritation when your body is undergoing so many hormonal changes.

If you’re not comfortable trying rosemary hair oil during postpartum, find out the nutrients you can incorporate into your diet to promote hair regrowth: 7 Nutrients That Support Postpartum Hair Regrowth.

Another potential drawback of using rosemary hair oil is that it can be difficult to wash out. Some users have reported that the oil can leave their hair feeling greasy or oily even after washing it out with shampoo and conditioner. This is because rosemary oil is a thick, viscous oil that can be difficult to rinse out completely.

The rosemary hair oil TikTok trend has been gaining popularity for a reason. Rosemary oil is a natural, affordable, and potentially effective hair treatment that can improve hair growth and overall hair health. However, it’s important to keep in mind that not everyone may experience these benefits, and the effectiveness of using rosemary hair oil to treat postpartum hair loss and encourage regrowth is unknown. If you’re interested in trying out rosemary hair oil, it’s a good idea to do a patch test first and experiment with different application methods to find what works best for your hair.

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Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

by writerredtri

Jennifer Tyler Lee, Bay Area mom and author of The 52 New Foods Challenge, shared with us one of her favorite healthy lunch ideas: Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup. She tells us, “My kids love a hot lunch, and this recipe is an easy way for me to send a cozy meal that I know they’ll enjoy.” Her pro tip? When packing soup, only fill the thermos part way to the top with liquid to avoid spills.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Serves 6

Ingredients for homemade chicken noodle soup:

1 ¼ to 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon wholegrain mustard
½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 cup onions, chopped
1 cup carrots, chopped
1 cup celery, chopped
4 cups chicken broth
1 bay leaf
1 cup dry pasta (macaroni or rotini work best)

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, mustard, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a medium bowl. Toss the chicken in the mixture until well coated. Spread out on the lined baking sheet as flat as possible and roast 23-25 minutes, until cooked through. When done, remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes. Then chop into 1-inch pieces and set aside. Reserve any cooking juices.

Tip: If you’re in a pinch, use a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and skip to Step 3. Heat a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and then the onions and cook gently for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the onions are translucent. Add the carrots and celery and cook for 2 to 3 minutes more, or until the vegetables begin to soften.

4. Add the broth, 1 cup water, and the bay leaf. Cover and bring to a boil. Add the pasta, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 8 minutes, or until the pasta is almost cooked.

5. Add the chicken to the pot and simmer for 2 minutes more.

6. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

 

Reprinted from THE 52 NEW FOODS CHALLENGE: A Family Cooking Adventure for Each Week of the Year, with 150 recipes. Reprinted by arrangement with Avery, an imprint of Penguin Publishing Group, a division of Penguin Random House LLC. Copyright © 2014 by Jennifer Tyler Lee.

Featured image: iStock 

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Cook This Tonight: One Pot Tomato Chicken Pasta

by Christal Y.

Tantalize your family’s taste buds with this one-pot culinary delight. Cheese, chicken, and pasta make this dish hearty and satisfying, while the spices, tomatoes, and mushrooms balance out the dish’s nutritional needs. Ceri Marsh from Sweet Potato Chronicles gives the details on recreating this simple meal.

Ingredients for One Pot Tomato Chicken:

1 Tbsp olive oil
4 skin­less, bone­less chicken breasts, cubed
2 cloves gar­lic, minced
2 cups mush­rooms, sliced
1 Tbsp fresh Thyme
1/2 cup white wine
1/2 cup chicken stock (or 1 cup of stock if you don’t have or feel like using wine)
1 x 28 oz can of whole toma­toes
1 cup water
225 grams of dried pasta
salt and pep­per to taste
1/2 cup mozzarella

Method:

1. Warm up your olive oil in a large, deep skil­let over medium heat. Brown the chicken, you may need to work in batches. If you over­crowd the pan you’re going to boil the meat and that’s not what you want! Once all the meat is nicely browned (but don’t worry about it being cooked through), add the gar­lic and give it all a stir.

2. Now add the thyme and mush­rooms and let them soften up and kick off their juices. Now add the wine and/or stock, water, and toma­toes. Break the toma­toes up with the back of a wooden spoon.

3. Bring the sauce to a bub­bly sim­mer and add your pasta. As the pasta soft­ens up in the heat, push it under the liq­uid. Depending on which pasta you’re using it will take about 15 to 20 minutes—it will be longer than if you were just straight up boil­ing the pasta in water. Give it a taste now so you know how much salt and pep­per to add. Remove from the heat.

4. Top with a big hand­ful of moz­zarella and allow that to melt as you bring your yummy din­ner to the table. After din­ner, get some­one else to wash that one pot!

Sweet Potato Chronicles focuses on children’s health and nutrition and is co-founded by fashion editors Laura Keogh and Ceri Marsh. Their site cuts through the clutter and provides parents with the most important information on cooking for kids. For more healthy eats and family fare, head on over and follow Sweet Potato Chronicles! 

 

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An Easy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe You Can Make in One Pot

by Claire Schillings

This one-pot recipe is a guaranteed crowd pleaser

We couldn’t resist this simple Tomato Basil Pasta recipe from Apron Strings—it’s literally made in one pot! Even better, it’s got tons of healthy veggies, making sure your little ones get the nutrition they need. Sounds like a dinner winner. For even more easy dinner ideas, check out our collection of 30-minute meals.

 

Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe Ingredients:

12 ounces linguine pasta
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes with liquid
1 large sweet onion, cut in julienne strips
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 teaspoons dried oregano leaves
2 large sprigs basil, chopped
4 1/2 cups vegetable broth (regular broth, not low sodium)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Parmesan cheese for garnish

Cooking Method:

1. Place pasta, tomatoes, onion, garlic, and basil in a large stock pot. Pour in vegetable broth. Sprinkle on top of the pepper flakes and oregano. Drizzle top with olive oil.

2. Cover the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce to a low simmer, keep covered, and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes or so. Cook until almost all liquid has evaporated – leave about an inch of liquid in the bottom of the pot–but you can reduce as desired.

3. Season to taste with salt and pepper, stirring pasta several times to distribute the liquid in the bottom of the pot. Serve garnished with parmesan cheese.

Recipe courtesy Apron Strings

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5 of the Best Nipple Creams for Breastfeeding That Offer Fast Relief

by Kate Cartia

Relief is in reach with our best nipple cream for breastfeeding roundup

If you’re starting to feel like nursing isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be, this one is for you. Yeah, we know it was a terrible pun, but we really do understand that sometimes breastfeeding isn’t the blissful experience you expected. That doesn’t mean it’s all bad, or that you’re not enjoying feeding your babe. It’s all just to say that there are some less-than-glamorous aspects, too. One of the absolute most common? Cracked, sore, raw nipples. Yikes. It just sounds painful, right? We get it, though, and we’ve been there. And if you’ve shmeared all the breast milk on your nips and it hasn’t done the trick, one of the easiest remedies is—you guessed it—nipple cream.

What is nipple cream?

So what is nipple cream, though, exactly? Well, consider what your nips are being put through when you breastfeed or chestfeed. It’s easy to end up with dry, cracked, sore, itchy, bleeding (omg) nipples if your baby doesn’t latch properly, they have a tongue-tie, or you’re still adjusting to nursing in general, according to La Leche League International. Nipple cream is formulated to treat and relieve all that so you can carry on and enjoy the awesome parts of nursing (the bonding, the quiet, the taking breaks from loud gatherings when your inner introvert needs it…).

How does nipple cream work?

Nipple cream works by soothing and moisturizing the skin, plus protecting that sensitive tissue from future discomfort. As far as ingredients go, medical-grade purified lanolin, a wax secreted by sheep and other wool-bearing animals, is often the most popular. Definitely avoid it if you have a wool sensitivity, and turn to other products with olive oil, aloe, or shea butter. Coconut oil is another option (and smells delish!) but can be an allergen for baby, so test it first.

Are nipple creams safe for babies?

A big bonus of these formulas is that they’re often made from natural and/or safe ingredients which means you can use them at the same time as breastfeeding. You don’t have to stop to wipe many nipple creams off when your little one is ready to eat. Notice we said many nipple creams are baby-friendly, but not all, so be sure to read the packaging and follow the directions. Also, if your baby seems to dislike the taste or smell of the formula you’re using you can swap to a different cream.

Another bonus? You can use nipple cream for your lips, on dry elbows, cracked hands; there’s a good chance it’ll become a must-have even after your babe has weaned. Check out a few of our picks for the best nipple cream for breastfeeding below.

Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream

Lansinoh/Amazon

A tried-and-true product, Lansinoh Nipple Cream is in new mom arsenals everywhere. It's lanolin is 100% natural and made without fragrance, taste, petroleum, or preservatives. You don't have to wipe it off before nursing and is also available in an organic option if that's your preference. 

Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream ($17.01/2pack)—Buy Here!

Motherlove Organic Lanolin-Free Nipple Cream

Motherlove/Amazon

Looking to skip the lanolin? Motherlove Organic Lanolin-Free Nipple Cream is a great option. With an almost 5-star Amazon rating, Motherlove's potent combo of calendula flower and marshmallow root soothes sore nipples and also works great on lips and hands. It doesn't need to be removed before nursing, either.

Motherlove Organic Lanolin-Free Nipple Cream ($12.99)—Buy Here!

Medela Purelan Lanolin Nipple Cream

Madela

Medela Purelan Lanolin Nipple Cream is made with ultra-pure, medical-grade lanolin that's super smooth and works fast. No need to wipe it off before nursing, either. As a bonus, it's ethically sourced from mulesing-free farms. 

Medela Purelan Lanolin Nipple Cream ($7.98)—Buy Here!

Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter

Earth Mama/Amazon

Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter is Non-GMO Project Verified and organic, so you don't need to wash it off before nursing. It's lanolin-free and not at all sticky (hence the "butter" part), plus it's also available in a vegan formula. 

Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter ($13.50)—Buy Here!

Newman's Nipple Cream (APNO)

Shutterstock

APNO stands for All-Purpose Nipple Ointment and is only available by prescription. This is the next step in keeping your nipples happy and healthy if over-the-counter creams aren't working for you. It's created with an antibiotic, an anti-inflamatory, and an anti-fungal medication to really help when nothing else is doing the job. You'll need to talk to your doctor to get a prescription. Although considered "safe" to leave on while nursing, you'll want to avoid using it for more than 7-10 days. Definitely sit down with your healthcare provider to find out if APNO is right for you and how to use it properly (for both you and baby).

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers unless otherwise indicated.

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The Best Bay Area Apple Picking Orchards

by Sandra Lee

These u-pick farms are the perfect way to welcome the fall season

Fall is around the corner, and aside from the beautiful colors and autumn hikes around San Francisco, it’s also apple season! Apple picking is one of our favorite fall activities, as the fruit is mostly within a kid’s reach and there are no thorns to deal with (looking at you, blackberries). Bring home a basket or two and make yourself a pie or homemade applesauce (snag yourself this apple peeler—you’ll thank us later).

Pro Tip: Check the orchard’s website before you head to these U-pick apple orchards in the Bay Area to confirm availability. Since most of them are a drive, you want to make sure they are open when you get there!

 

The Best Apple Picking in Sonoma County

EARTHseed Farm (formerly Gabriel Farm): If eating organic is important to your family, head to EARTHseed Farm located in Sebastopol, a town practically synonymous with the fruit. In addition to picking your own apples, you can schedule a tour of the certified organic orchard. Varieties include McIntosh, Gravenstein, Gala, Braeburn, Gilbert Golden Delicious, Fuji, and Rome. A $35 entrance fee covers your U-pick time slot for up to 4 people, and children under 3 are free. Since it gets pretty hot there, the farm has u-pick slots earlier in the day, and even installed cooling stations to make the visit even better. You can always head over to the store for juice, jams, and pears for sale.

3175 Sullivan Rd.
Sebastopol
Online: earthseedfarm.org

Related: Bay Area Spots for Epic Family Picnics

Apple-a-Day Ratzlaff Ranch: With a name like that, you know Ratzlaff Ranch is focused on apples! U-pick Rome Beauties and Golden Delicious are here for the picking. They are open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (except Thursdays and Saturdays when they are closed) and there is no parking fee. No reservations are needed and you can stay as long as you want. Pack a lunch and sit at one of the picnic tables taking in the beautiful ranch. While you are there, don’t forget to pick up some of their award-winning apple cider, best chilled or warm? You decide. U-Pick is typically September through early December, depending on the availability of ripe apples, but exact dates may vary.

13128 Occidental Rd.
Sebastopol
Online: appleadayranch.com

Chileno Valley Ranch: Chileno Valley Ranch starts its U-pick season on Sept. 3, available Sun. only from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through Oct. Time slots are available every hour and admission is $10 per family if pre-booked online. Check the website and Facebook as spots fill up quickly. Apples are $2 per pound and you can expect to find varieties such as Orin, Pinova, Candy Crisp, and Jonagold. Beyond apple picking, you can also shop for free-range eggs, honey, and baked goods.

5105 Chileno Valley Rd.
Petaluma
Online: mikeandsallygalebeefranch.com

Related: Free (or Cheap) Things to Do with Kids in the Bay Area

 

Best Apple Picking in Watsonville

A little boy in a hat takes a bite out of an apple
Kate Loweth

Gizdich Ranch: The U-pick apple season at Gizdich starts mid-Sept. (check their website for exact dates) and lasts about a month. Their pie and deli shop offers a boxed picnic meal, so stop by for lunch and then take one of their out-of-this-world pies, apple dumplings, or puff pastries home (is your mouth watering yet?). On hot days, the kids can enjoy a homemade apple slush. They are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily during picking season. Bring your own containers.

55 Peckham Rd.
Watsonville
Online: gizdich-ranch.com

Live Earth Farm: This spot in Watsonville grows a small variety of apples including Gala and Fuji. Their U-pick apples (as well as strawberries and tomatoes) are available on the weekends only, with schedules posted on their website. The picking is a bargain at $1.50 per pound. Bring buckets, boxes, or other containers to harvest into, or purchase containers from them for a small fee.

1275 Green Valley Rd.
Watsonville
Online: liveearthfarm.net

Related: Al Fresco Family Time: SF Eateries with Outdoor Seating

Clearview Orchards:  Located in the beautiful Santa Cruz Basin, Clearview Orchards offers a huge variety of certified organic apples, specializing in Gala, Fuji, Honey Crisp, and Mitsu. Pick some apples and enjoy their beautiful terraced grounds with a view of the Watsonville Valley. They also sell delicious local honey, and fresh-pressed apple cider, and the kiddos can even pick out their own pumpkins, just in time for fall. This year they will open Saturdays and Sundays starting Sept. 9, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Advanced reservations are required with a $7 entry fee for each vehicle. Leave the pets at home, and no food or drinks (aside from water bottles) are allowed, so eat before you arrive and save some room for that delicious apple cider!

646 Trabing Rd.
Watsonville
Online: clearvieworchards.com

Luz del Valle Ranch: Starting right after Labor Day, Galas are the first to be picked, followed by Fujis in October.  With two-hour time slots that families can book online, families can take their time picking apples on this beautiful farm. Pack a lunch and have a day at the farm. Luz del Valle is also a horse ranch, breeding beautiful Arabian horses that you’ll be able to see.

1875 Hames Rd
Aptos
Online: luzdelvalle.us

 

The Best Apple Picking: Apple Hill Region near Sacramento

best apple picking

photo: Erika Fletcher via Unsplash

Apple Hill Region: For a bit of a longer trek, you’ll get no better apple selection than in the Apple Hill Region, about fifty miles east of Sacramento. With more than 50 ranches offering different apple varieties and activities, you are bound to find the perfect experience for the kids. The Apple Hill Growers Association lists orchard details including U-pick hours, picnic areas, local attractions, and more. The U-pick ranches tend to be very small and very popular, so it is a good idea to call the ranches themselves to make sure they have the apple variety you want and that the fruit is available.

A full list of farms can be found via the Apple Hill Growers Association.

Best Apple Picking in the East Bay

Cloverfield Organic Farm: The USDA-certified organic farm in the East Bay has a wide variety of fruit, vegetables, herbs, and flowers. U-pick is open Friday-Sunday from 12-5 p.m., and no reservations are needed, making this a great impromptu weekend trip. Parking is free, and there is no entrance fee. While you’re there, you can book a private tour or guided horse activity that the kids will definitely love.

501 La Paloma Rd.
El Sobrante
Online: cloverfieldfarm.com

 

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Honey Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry

by Erin Lem

 

Part sweet and part savory, this stir-fry dish is a cinch to make and will please any kid’s picky palate

Inspired by her husband’s love of chicken wings, Kari of GI 365 created this Honey Garlic Chicken stir-fry recipe that features the same sweet and savory flavors of her hubby’s favorite dish. Your kids will love the flavor combination, and you’ll love that making this healthy meal only takes 30 minutes. It’s a win-win.

Serves 4

Ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken:

Sauce:
⅓ cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
1 Tablespoon organic cornstarch
⅓ cup honey

Stir-Fry:
1 medium onion, diced ½”
1½ pounds broccoli, stems peeled
1 pound chicken thighs, cut into 1″ cubes
2 Tablespoons avocado oil, (or olive oil)
¼ cup water
3 cloves garlic, minced

Method:
1. Start by mixing the soy sauce and cornstarch together until the cornstarch dissolves. Add the honey to the soy sauce mixture, but you don’t need to combine them (this happens in the pan).

2. Thinly slice the peeled broccoli stems, cut the florets into 1″ pieces, and set the broccoli aside with the onion.

3. Preheat a large skillet over high heat.

4. When the pan is almost smoking, add 1 Tablespoon of avocado oil and the chicken cubes. Sauté for about 2 minutes to brown before turning the chicken cubes, and cooking until golden brown and done in the center. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

5. Reduce the heat to medium-high and add the remaining 1 Tablespoon of avocado oil to the pan. Add the onion and broccoli, and cook stirring every 30 seconds for 3-5 minutes or until the onions begin to soften and the broccoli turns bright green but is still crisp.

6. Add the ¼ cup of water to the pan, cover with a lid, and simmer for 3 minutes until the water has mostly evaporated and the broccoli is just tender.

7. Add the sautéed chicken, minced garlic, and the sauce into the skillet.

8. Stir to incorporate the honey, and simmer for 1-2 minutes to thicken the sauce. Serve immediately.

For more fantastic recipes, visit GI 365 by clicking here. 

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Flippin’ Delicious! We Found The Best Pancakes in NYC

by Lambeth Hochwald

Try one of these beloved New York City breakfast spots for pancakes your kid won’t soon forget

Looking for the best pancakes in NYC? We checked out skillets all over town to serve up this list of New York City’s best, kid-worthy flapjacks that come in all flavors, sizes and sweetness. From decadent and diner classics to refined and weird, this is where to eat to find NYC’s best pancakes. Want more ideas on where to eat with kids in NYC? Try these brunch spots, favorite restaurants of local foodie parents, or our top spots for eating outdoors with kids here! Special occasion? Try one of these fun theme restaurants! 

Related: Our Favorite NYC Spots for Brunch with Kids

For a Malted Twist in Hipster Central: Sunday in Brooklyn

Don't even think about trying to head here without a reservation. (We stopped by one weekend afternoon and the wait was about two hours.) But clearly, Sunday in Brooklyn—not too far from the brand new Domino Park—is doing something right. In addition to elevated breakfast and lunch foods, the restaurant serves its famous malted pancakes with hazelnut maple praline, and brown butter. They're rich, an unexpected but delicious taste sensation, and super fluffy. 

Sunday in Brooklyn
348 Wythe Ave. 
Williamsburg
Online: sundayinbrooklyn.com

For a Gluten-Free Pancake in Times Square: Friedman's at The Edison

You heard us right. Friedman's at The Edison Hotel will prepare its celebrated pancakes gluten-free. (In fact, they can do the same for 99 percent of their menu, and they even mark them with a little sign saying so!) Choose from blueberry, lemon ricotta, or buckwheat banana walnut. Good to know: Friedman's serves breakfast all day, and has also mastered kid faves like mac and cheese. 

Friedman’s at The Edison Hotel
228 West 47th St.
Online: friedmansrestaurant.com

Related: Kitschy Cool NYC Theme Restaurants Worth the Splurge

For Over-the-Top Pancakes in Midtown or Astoria

If you like your pancakes a little extra with a side of kitsch, head to Mom's Kitchen and Bar. You can get brunch all day here, including the Bedrock Pancakes (with Fruity Pebbles, mixed berries, berry syrup and whipped cream, shown here), mac and cheese pancakes or apple cobbler pancakes. Come for the comfort food, stay for the impressive collection of vintage lunchboxes! 

Mom's Kitchen & Bar Midtown
701 Ninth Ave. 
Midtown

Mom's Kitchen & Bar Astoria
33-01 31st Ave. at 33rd St.
Astoria

Online: eatatmomsnyc.com

For the Fluffiest Pancake: Bubby's

If you like your pancakes light and fluffy, you will love Bubby’s. Adapted from a James Beard recipe, Bubby’s uses sour cream instead of milk to get the perfect amount of fluffiness. They also serve sourdough and buckwheat versions and sometimes offer Johnny cakes, pancakes made from cornmeal. Little ones have the option of ordering silver dollar pancakes off the kid’s menu, but most eat right off the regular menu, usually opting for blueberry.

120 Hudson St.
Tribeca
Online: bubbys.com

For The Organic Pancake Served at Chelsea Market: Creamline

At this fast casual eatery tucked into the hustle and bustle of Chelsea Market, you can indulge in any menu item guilt-free thanks to the commitment to using sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients in every dish. Take the Buttermilk pancakes: They’re made with fresh Farmer Ground Flour and griddled to crispy and fluffy fabulousness. They’re served with Catskills Provisions maple syrup and a choice of organic banana, blueberries or chocolate chips. Farm to Tray? Count us in.

Creamline
Chelsea Market
75 Ninth Ave.
Chelsea

180 7th Avenue
Chelsea

Online: creamlinenyc.com

For the Almond Milk Pancake served in a grown-up setting: Dante

Since 1915, Dante has delighted guests with its sophisticated European ambience and feeling that you could linger all day over a delicious latte. The food at this Italian-Australian café that’s a quintessential part of the West Village is equally appealing and the almond milk pancake with seasonal berries and cinnamon maple syrup—served in its own cast-iron skillet—is sure to please any discerning kiddie taster. Best of all weekend brunch starts here at 10 AM when most locals are still sleeping so grab an outdoor table!

Dante
79-81 Macdougal St.
West Village
Online: dante-nyc.com

For the Pancake Like Grandma Makes: Good Enough To Eat

A popular spot on the Upper West Side, Good Enough to Eat serves pancakes just like Grandma makes, and they're so pretty, they are good enough to eat. Made from their four grain oatmeal pancake mixture, flavors include: apple, banana walnut, Belgium chocolate and coconut, fruit, and traditional. Oh, they also serve an amazing strawberry butter on the side to add a little more yumminess to the mix.

Good Enough to Eat
520 Columbus Ave. & 85th St.
Upper West Side
Online: goodenoughtoeat.com

Related: Where to Eat with Kids in Times Square

For the Mac & Cheese Pancake: Shopsin's

Pancakes get all kinds of crazy at this Essex Market outpost of the legendary Greenwich Village diner, now no longer. The variations run from enticing (peach melba, and lemon ricotta blueberry) to pushing the envelope, such as the iconic "slutty cakes", which come stuffed with peanut butter. And yes, another fan favorite is the Mac & Cheese pancake, which you can get solo or mashed up with some other brunchy item. (Be forewarned, the restaurant's menu is famously very, very extensive and they're closed Monday and Tuesday.) 

Shopsin's 
Essex Market Stall #8
Lower East Side 
Online: shopsins.com

For the Award-Winning Blueberry Pancake: Clinton Street Baking Company

Famous for blueberry pancakes and long lines, Clinton St. Baking Company is definitely worth the wait. Still, pancakes are served in the evening as well, so consider stopping in right at 5 p.m. when they open for dinner. Made with a whole lot of love and even more butter, these pancakes are more than a meal – they’re a work of art. Topped with their addictive signature maple butter, besides blueberry, they offer banana-walnut and chocolate chunk, and during pancake month in February, they offer a different flavor every day. And if your little ones can’t get enough at the restaurant, you can make them at home as the recipe is featured in the Clinton St. Baking Company's award-winning cookbook.

Clinton St. Baking Company
4 Clinton St.
Lower East Side
Online: clintonstreetbaking.com

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For the Italian Pancake Served Among Flowers and Trees: Olio e Piu

At this West Village trattoria, your mood will lift as soon as you see the space, filled as it is with flowers and plants bedecking both the interior and exterior patio. Your kids will thrill at the sight of the café’s variety of Frittella Di Olio, an Italian staple of olive oil pancakes, that are rich but not too sweet. Our fave: the Fritella Botanica served with blueberry compote, lemon ricotta, maple syrup and lemon olive oil, though the Fritella Banana, with candied walnuts and bananas, doesn’t disappoint either. PS: Pancakes are available daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. so you don’t even have to wait ‘til the weekend to indulge!

Olio E Piu
3 Greenwich Ave.
Greenwich Village
Online: olioepiu.nyc

For a Local Favorite and Tons of Charm: Tom's

Helping give Brooklyn the title of best pancakes in New York City, Tom’s is a popular joint with many locals claiming the pancakes are not only the best in the city, but also the best on the planet. Offerings include: lemon ricotta, silver dollar and chocolate chip. Like any Saturday or Sunday, the lines are long, but you won’t go hungry as they keep you fed while waiting. Don’t eat too much as you need to save room for the pancakes. This is another cash only spot, so don’t forget to hit the ATM. Can't deal with long lines? Make a special mid-week pancake date with your kids.

Tom’s
782 Washington Ave.
Crown Heights

For The Donut Pancake: Cafe Luluc

In a little French bistro on a crowded street in Cobble Hill you will find some of the best pancakes in Brooklyn. More like a donut than a pancake, these round, floppy circles of perfection sprinkled with powdered sugar are only served with real maple syrup. During the weekend brunch hours there’s obviously a reason you’ll see a plate of pancakes on every table—they’re that good. This cash-only spot can get packed, so go pre-10 a.m. before the traditional brunch crowd gets there. You're up early anyway, right? If your kids are on the louder side, never fear, they have outdoor seating in a lovely back garden as well.

Café Luluc
214 Smith St. (between Butler and Baltic St.)
Cobble Hill
Online: cafeluluc.net


 

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14 Easy Trader Joe’s Dinner Ideas Perfect for Summer

by Kate Loweth

These one-pot and grill meals from Trader Joe’s will definitely make your life easier

Summertime is all about ease, and meals shouldn’t be an exception! With a few favorites in your pantry, these Trader Joe’s dinner ideas come together almost effortlessly, leaving more time for you to enjoy those long days with your little ones. There’s a recipe in this list that’s guaranteed to please everyone, even the picky eaters at your table.

 

Mini Chicken Wonton Stir Fry

Trader Joe's dinner ideas
Trader Joe’s

There’s pretty much nothing easier than a stir fry, can we agree? This one is a twist as it features the mini wontons that are everyone’s favorite. Cook them up according to the package directions and then sautee the broccoli slaw and garlicky cabbage when the wontons are done. Add a bit of stir fry sauce to bring it all together.

Chicken Pasta Salad

chicken pasta salad is a Trader Joe's dinner idea
Anna Doogan

This salad is perfect for an easy weeknight meal or a portable option for a picnic or potluck. Plus, it’s equally fantastic served warm or cold! Toss cooked pasta with a jar of Corn and Chile Tomato-Less Salsa, black beans, chopped chicken, and a bit of creamy dressing, like the tasty Cilantro. Add a handful of your favorite veggies and shredded or cubed cheese to top it off.

Shawarma Chicken Bowls

Trader Joe's dinner ideas
Trader Joe’s

Fire up the grill and cook up these chicken thighs that are full of flavor. The base of this dish is brown rice that cooks in the microwave. Top with grilled chicken and roasted Brussels sprouts along with a drizzle of lemon and a dollop of garlic hummus. The pita bite crackers add a bit of crunch.

Quinoa-Stuffed Peppers

summer meal ideas from Trader Joe's
Anna Doogan

For a delicious veggie-centric summer dinner, stuffed peppers with quinoa and feta are hard to beat. Stuff a variety of peppers with a pre-made quinoa salad, sprinkle with feta and bake until warmed through. You’ll get a bright pop of color, a big boost of vitamins, and a whole lot of yumminess.

Easy Gyros & Mediterranean Salad

Trader Joe's recipe for easy gyros
Karly Wood

Keep it cool and refreshing during the warmer months by whipping up easy gyros. Grab a box of fully cooked Trader Joe's Gyro Slices, naan bread, tomatoes, and creamy prepared Tzatziki sauce and pair it with a simple Greek salad made with greens, cucumber, and balsamic vinegar.

Greek Bowls

Trader Joe’s

All you have to prepare is the quinoa for this easy summer lunch or dinner. It packs a punch of protein so we love it as our base topped with pre-cooked chicken breasts, tomatoes, Greek chickpeas, and diced cucumbers. The vegan tzatziki dip brings it all together.

BBQ Pork Sandwiches with Coleslaw

need a Trader Joe's dinner idea? Tried BBQ pulled pork sandwiches.
Anna Doogan

BBQ pork sandwiches are one of the quintessential backyard summer meals, and they're oh-so-simple with a few shortcuts. Pre-made shredded pork heats up in minutes, and the coleslaw mix can quickly be thrown together, leaving extra time for you to toss that frisbee with the kids a few more times.

Scallop Rolls

Scallop rolls are an easy dinner idea
Anna Doogan

One of our favorite Trader Joe's dinner ideas? A twist on the classic lobster roll! Sprinkle scallops with salt and pepper, and saute in butter. Then tuck them into a squishy hot dog bun with some greens and a dollop of mayo or a tangy tartar sauce. You may not actually be lounging at the seashore, but with this recipe, at least you can pretend you are. Perfection.

Steak Tacos

need a trader joe's dinner idea? Try tacos!
Anna Doogan

Can’t decide what to have for dinner? A DIY taco bar is a fun and simple crowd-pleaser. While the meat’s cooking, set out tortillas, avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, olives and any other toppings you can think of. Then let everyone go to town making their own creation!

Next-Level Ravioli

Sara Olsher

Trader Joe's has a great selection of ravioli, but topping it with marinara can get old. By adding steamed spinach, peas and melted Boursin cheese, this pumpkin ravioli now has three veggies (and they all taste like cheese!).

Island Soyaki Rice Bowl with Meatballs

Anna Doogan

Get all the beach feels with a tropical-inspired rice bowl. Cook party-size frozen mini meatballs in Island Soyaki marinade, flavored with pineapple juice, garlic and ginger. Serve over cooked rice. Add sautéed red peppers and grilled pineapple chunks, and don’t forget to save a little sauce for drizzling on top.

Pesto Pasta with Shrimp

Need a Trader Joe's dinner idea? Try shrimp pesto pasta.
Anna Doogan

Pesto is the star of this easy pasta recipe that will definitely earn a spot in the summer dinner rotation. Mix your favorite cooked pasta with shrimp and garlicky pesto. Add chopped fresh basil and tomato with a sprinkling of grated parmesan for an extra blast of favorite summery flavors.

Carnitas Salad

The cilantro salad dressing at Trader Joe's is no joke, and it's delicious on more than just salads. Create a filling dinner salad or a tasty lunch by adding their pre-cooked carnitas, Mexican cheese, avocado, salsa, cilantro salad dressing and a small amount of sour cream to a bag of romaine lettuce.

Delicious Pulled Pork Tacos

Sara Olsher

Trader Joe's pulled pork can be made in the microwave in three minutes and makes a super-tasty base for these tacos. Add your favorite toppings, but don't skip the Roasted Tomatillo and Mango Salsa, which adds some tang and spice.

Additional reporting from Anna Doogan

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3-Ingredient Recipes That Make Kids AND Parents Happy

by Stacy Liu

You’ll be amazed at what you can make with just three ingredients

If you’re anything like us, you’re always on the hunt for easy dinner recipes. The fewer ingredients we have to remember, the better (because no one likes doing a last-minute grocery store run!). To make all of our lives easier, we’ve rounded up a list of 3-ingredient recipes that will please even the pickiest of eaters. Read on to simplify your meal plan.

Cauliflower Soup

cauliflower soup is an easy 3-ingredient recipe
Just a Taste

Your whole crew is sure to fall in love with this silky soup from Just a Taste. It’s practically begging to be topped with your favorite add-ons, from a simple swirl of olive oil to crumbled bacon or crispy chickpeas. 

Blackened Chicken

blackened chicken is a good 3-ingredient recipe
Cooking with Janica

Dry, overcooked chicken will be a thing of the past once you try this 3-ingredient recipe from Cooking with Janica. Their easy method yields a juicy, well-seasoned chicken breast—perfect for pairing with rice, salad, or potatoes.

Perfect Roasted Potatoes

A Clean Bake

Our hunt for perfectly crispy roasted potatoes has finally come to an end, thanks to A Clean Bake. This foolproof method will have your whole family asking for seconds.

 

Honey Teriyaki Lime Salmon

Delicious salmon is less than a half hour away, thanks to this 3-ingredient recipe from Savory Nothings. Bonus points if you make your own teriyaki sauce (but we won’t judge if you go for the bottled stuff!).

Tomato Tortellini Soup

Honey and Birch

Grab your soup pot and make a big batch of this soup from Honey and Birch! With the homey goodness of tomato soup and tortellini (a kid fave!), we guarantee it'll disappear in no time.

Creamy Tomato Shells

Pinch of Yum

Trust us, you're gonna want to bookmark this delish recipe from Pinch of Yum. It's hearty, homey, and can be whipped up for any busy weeknight dinner. 

Related: 14 Easy Meals Kids Can Make Themselves This Summer

Ham and Cheese Freezer Sandwiches

Make-ahead-meal alert! We love how these sandwiches from A Taste of Madness can be frozen and then heated whenever you need a quick and easy school lunch. Plus, you can always customize it with your kiddo’s favorite lunch meat.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

Lanc Foodie Girl

Taco night just got way easier, thanks to this genius recipe from Lanc Foodie Girl. Set up the slow cooker in the morning, and dinner will be hot and ready by the time you get home.

 

3-Ingredient Biscuit Recipe

The Feathered Nester has an incredibly easy 3-ingredient biscuit recipe we love for weekend breakfasts. 

Grilled Ranch Pork Chop

No one likes a dry pork chop! Good news: this recipe from Gimme Some Grilling is going to be your new go-to method for the juiciest (and easiest) pork. The secret ingredient is hiding in the grocery store spice aisle.

Sweet Potato Wraps

Lemons & Basil

We’re always on the hunt for healthy snacks that the little ones will actually eat, and these sweet potato wraps from Lemons & Basil get the toddler seal of approval. You can fill them up with butter, cheese, or peanut butter for a perfectly balanced snack. 

Crock Pot BBQ Chicken Wings

A platter filled with chicken wings that were cooked in a crock pot
Intelligent Domestications

Three ingredients and a few hours in a Crock Pot and bam! Now you have killer BBQ chicken wings to feed the masses, all thanks to this recipe from Intelligent Domestications. Plus the kids will get a kick out of the “secret ingredient.”

 

Grilled Cheese Rollups

Flat sandwiches are so last year… These rollups from My Little Gourmet are perfectly sized for tiny hands to dunk into a bowl of soup.

Related: 31 Make Ahead Meals That Are Perfect for Busy Weeknights

Handmade Gnocchi

Get your tiny taste testers’ hands deep into potatoes when they help you make gnocchi from scratch! Pair this step-by-step tutorial from Eugenie’s Kitchen with the tomato sauce later in this roundup.

Baked Rollups

Two ham and cheese roll ups sit on a plate ready to eat by even the most picky of eaters
It's Peachy Keen

Roll up ham and cheese for a dinner that will have the little ones forgetting about their pre-boxed meat, cheese, and crackers (you know which ones we're talking about!). You and your kids can whip up this recipe from It's Peachy Keen in less than 20 minutes for a fun, fingers-only meal. 

Apple Juice Chicken

Apple Juice Chicken topped with green onions sits on a white plate garnished with lettuce
Oatmeal with a Fork

You know that stockpile of juice boxes your family has been collecting? This sweet recipe, courtesy of Oatmeal With a Fork, puts them to good use! This chicken is flavorful and easy to make—and we’re willing to bet it’ll be a hit with kids and grown-ups alike. 

Steak Pinwheels

Weary Chef

A dinner that is fun to make, fun to look at, and deliciously satisfying to eat? Please let your burgeoning kitchen master bring these pinwheels to your dinner table. Weary Chef simplifies it down so your little one can get artsy with their greens before rolling it up to bake. 

Garlic Charred Green Beans

Nyssa’s Kitchen

For the easiest (and kid-friendliest) side dish, you’ve got to try these green beans from Nyssa’s Kitchen. Her method leaves the beans perfectly tender with a little char on the outside. Drooling yet? 

 

Grilled PB&J Sandwiches

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If your little one is tired of sandwiches, switch it up with this tortilla version on the stove. It’s literally as simple as spreading peanut butter and jelly on a tortilla, then heating up before devouring.

Dairy-Free Perfect Noodles

Miles Burke/Unsplash

This easy dish subs nutritional yeast for parmesan and olive oil for butter to make a simple, dairy-free alternative to your kiddo’s favorite go-to pasta dish. Just cook spaghetti or linguine noodles according to the package, toss in enough olive oil to coat, and sprinkle liberally with nutritional yeast. You can add parsley, pepper, and a pinch of salt if you’re a rule-breaker.

Black Bean Soup

The Pretty Bee

Does your kiddo feel like traveling south of the border for dinner? Try out this deliciously simple black bean soup recipe from The Pretty Bee.

 

Easy Meatballs

We know your kids can’t get enough of meatballs once they’re on the table—it’s time to teach them where those delicious things come from. Take a peek at Persnickety Plates’ recipe for three-ingredient slow cooker pineapple teriyaki meatballs and have your little sous chef’s help with all the prep.

Rich Tomato Sauce

The Honour System

This one's an easy one for momma's helper, and it's done in no time at all. The Honour System has got tomato sauce down to a two-step science: simmer and stir! 

 

Maple & Mustard Salmon

Your iron chefs-in-training may or may not be ready for handling raw salmon, but they can certainly help out with a sweet and spicy glaze from For the Love of Cooking.

 

 

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