Natalie

Natalie is the founder and creative mind behind itssoupy, a culinary space where cooking is celebrated as an art, a cultural journey, and a personal expression. Inspired by her early memories in her grandmother’s kitchen, Natalie channels her love for global flavors and home-cooked comfort into recipes that are both approachable and adventurous, welcoming cooks of all skill levels to explore the vibrant world of food.

Through itssoupy, Natalie shares a wide array of recipes, from cherished classics to bold, innovative dishes, always emphasizing fresh ingredients and step-by-step guidance. More than just a recipe hub, itssoupy is a community where Natalie encourages food lovers to connect, share their kitchen stories, and discover the joy of cooking together.

Latest from Natalie

$- 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced - 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - 4 whole wheat pita breads - 1 cup cucumber, diced - 1 cup tomatoes, diced - 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced - 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled - Fresh parsley, for garnish The star of this dish is chicken breast. It is lean and packed with protein. Greek yogurt adds creaminess and helps tenderize the chicken. Minced garlic gives a strong flavor that wakes up all other ingredients. Olive oil keeps the chicken moist while cooking. Dried oregano and paprika bring warmth and depth to the flavor. Whole wheat pita is a healthier choice that adds fiber. Fresh veggies like cucumber, tomatoes, and onion add crunch and freshness. Crumbled feta cheese gives a salty bite that enhances the meal. Lastly, fresh parsley brightens everything up. You can make this dish your own. Here are some ideas: - Avocado slices for creaminess - Spinach or lettuce for extra greens - Hot sauce for a spicy kick - Pickled jalapeños for tang - Hummus instead of yogurt for a different flavor These options allow you to adjust flavors and textures to suit your taste. - Chicken breast: High in protein. Great for muscle repair and growth. - Greek yogurt: Contains probiotics. Good for gut health. - Garlic: Boosts the immune system and adds flavor. - Olive oil: Healthy fat that supports heart health. - Oregano: High in antioxidants. Good for overall wellness. - Paprika: Rich in vitamins A and E. Adds color and flavor. - Whole wheat pita: Provides fiber. Helps keep you full longer. - Cucumber: Hydrating and low in calories. Great for freshness. - Tomatoes: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Good for skin health. - Red onion: Contains antioxidants and supports heart health. - Feta cheese: A source of calcium. Adds flavor and richness. - Fresh parsley: Offers vitamins and adds freshness. Each ingredient plays a role in making these chicken gyros not only tasty but also nutritious. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by mixing the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This mix is your marinade. Add the thinly sliced chicken to the bowl. Toss it well to coat every piece. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, let it sit overnight. This will give it more flavor. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 8-10 minutes. Stir the chicken occasionally. You want it to be fully cooked and golden-brown. Check the chicken's center; it should reach 165°F to be safe to eat. While the chicken cooks, you can prepare the toppings. Start by dicing the cucumber and tomatoes. Then, thinly slice the red onion. Set all these toppings aside. They will add crunch and freshness to your gyros. Next, warm the whole wheat pita breads. You can do this in a dry skillet or an oven. Heat them for a few minutes until they are pliable. You want them to be slightly toasted but soft enough to roll. Now, it’s time to assemble the gyros. Take a warm pita and place a generous amount of cooked chicken on it. Add the diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion on top. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over everything. This adds a creamy, salty flavor that pairs well with the chicken. Finish by sprinkling fresh parsley on top. This adds a pop of color and flavor. Roll up the pita around the filling. Serve it warm for the best taste. Enjoy your flavorful and nutritious high protein chicken gyros! For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This allows the spices and yogurt to soak in. If you want more taste, let it marinate overnight. The longer it sits, the more tasty it becomes. To ensure juicy chicken, cook it over medium-high heat. This helps to brown the chicken while keeping it moist. Stir and flip the chicken pieces often. Cook for about 8-10 minutes or until they are golden brown and no longer pink inside. Serve your gyros with fresh toppings. Use diced cucumbers and tomatoes for crunch. Add thin slices of red onion for a sharp taste. Crumbled feta cheese brings a creamy touch. Don't forget to sprinkle parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your meal warm for the best taste! Pro Tips Marinate Longer for Flavor: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour or ideally overnight. This allows the spices and yogurt to fully penetrate the meat. Use High Heat: Cooking the chicken on medium-high heat helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown color while keeping the meat juicy and tender. Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Add olives, roasted red peppers, or even a drizzle of tahini for an extra flavor boost. Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the gyros immediately after assembling. This keeps the pita warm and the toppings fresh. {{image_2}} You can make tasty vegetarian gyros using protein-rich foods. Try using marinated tofu or tempeh. Both absorb flavors well. Use the same marinade as chicken for great taste. Slice them thin and cook until golden. Add your favorite veggies, like bell peppers or zucchini. These gyros stay healthy and filling. You can switch chicken for turkey or beef. For turkey, use ground turkey or thin slices. Ground turkey cooks fast and is lean. Use a similar marinade for beef. Beef can be sliced thin or used as ground meat. Make sure to adjust cooking times for each protein. Spices enhance your gyros' taste. You can add cumin or coriander for warmth. A pinch of cayenne gives a nice kick too. For sauces, try tzatziki or hummus. Both add creaminess and flavor. You can also mix in hot sauce for a spicy twist. Don’t forget to experiment with fresh herbs like dill or mint! I love to keep my leftover gyros fresh. Start by placing the leftover chicken and toppings in separate airtight containers. This keeps the pita from getting soggy. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you need to keep them longer, consider freezing the chicken. Just be sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap or foil. When you're ready to eat, reheating is simple. For the chicken, place it in a skillet over medium heat. Stir it often for about five minutes until it's warm. If you want to warm the pita, you can quickly toast it in a dry skillet. This adds a nice crunch. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the pita chewy. Meal prepping gyros is a great idea. You can marinate the chicken the night before. This allows the flavors to blend well. Chop the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions ahead of time. Store them in the fridge so they’re ready when you need them. You can even prepare the whole meal, store it in containers, and grab it when you’re on the go. This makes healthy eating easy and quick! You can use plain yogurt or sour cream. Both will add creaminess. For a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or cashew cream. These substitutes keep the dish flavorful and rich. I love how these options can change the taste while still being tasty. Yes, you can! The chicken can marinate overnight. This makes the flavors stronger. You can also prep the toppings in advance. Store them in the fridge. Just warm the pita and cook the chicken when you’re ready to eat. To make a low-carb version, skip the pita bread. Use lettuce wraps instead. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. This will still give you a filling meal without the carbs. Plus, it keeps the meal fresh and crunchy. Several sides go well with gyros. You can serve a Greek salad with fresh veggies. Roasted veggies or a bowl of hummus also work great. For a light option, try tzatziki sauce with pita chips. These sides will add even more flavor to your meal. High Protein Chicken Gyros are easy to make and full of flavor. We discussed key ingredients and their benefits. I shared simple steps to marinate, cook, and assemble your gyros. Remember, customizing with different proteins or flavors can enhance your meal. Store leftovers properly for future enjoyment. By following these tips, you can create a delicious, healthy dish that fits your needs. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe, and make it your own!$

High Protein Chicken Gyros Flavorful and Nutritious Meal

Craving a tasty meal that’s packed with protein? You’re in for a treat! These high protein chicken gyros are flavorful,

$- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs - ½ cup unsalted butter, melted - 1 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 cup granulated sugar - 2 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 2 cups apples, peeled and diced (preferably Granny Smith) - 1 teaspoon cinnamon - ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade) - ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) You can mix things up with some fun variations. Try using different apple types, like Honeycrisp or Fuji, for a sweeter taste. If you love chocolate, consider adding chocolate chips to the filling. For a nutty flavor, mix in almond extract instead of vanilla. You can also use a gluten-free crust if needed. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty bars! {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some paper hanging over the sides. This helps you lift the bars out later. 2. In a medium bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs with ½ cup of melted unsalted butter. Mix until it looks like wet sand. 3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan. This forms a nice crust. Bake it for 10 minutes. Once done, take it out and let it cool. 1. In a large bowl, beat together 1 cup of softened cream cheese and 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. 2. Add in 2 large eggs, one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Then, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until it’s fully blended. 3. In a separate bowl, toss 2 cups of peeled and diced apples with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. This gives the apples a lovely flavor. 4. Gently fold the cinnamon apples into the cheesecake mixture. Then, pour this mixture over the cooled crust. Make sure to spread it evenly. 1. Drizzle ½ cup of caramel sauce over the cheesecake mixture. Use a knife to gently swirl it, creating a marbled look. 2. If you want, sprinkle ¼ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts on top. This adds a nice crunch. 3. Bake the cheesecake bars for 30-35 minutes. They should be set and slightly golden on the edges. The center may jiggle a bit; it will firm up as it cools. 4. Let the bars cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate them for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares. To get a smooth cheesecake, use room temperature ingredients. This helps them mix well. Softened cream cheese is key for a creamy filling. Let your eggs sit out for a bit before using them. This simple step makes a big difference. Cooling your cheesecake slowly helps it set right. After baking, let it cool at room temp first. Then, place it in the fridge. This helps the bars firm up without cracking. Cracks in cheesecake often come from baking too fast. To avoid this, bake your bars at a lower temperature. A gentle bake helps keep the surface smooth. Also, don’t open the oven door too often while baking. This helps keep the heat steady. Make sure your batter is mixed evenly. Uneven mixing can lead to spots that cook differently. For even baking, use a pan that fits your oven well. If your pan is too small, the heat may not circulate well. Presentation matters! Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top for a sweet touch. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. Thin apple slices make a fresh garnish. They add color and a nice crunch. To impress your guests, serve the bars on a pretty plate. Stack them neatly and space them out. This simple step makes your dessert look more inviting. Pro Tips Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor and texture, opt for tart apples like Granny Smith. Their acidity balances the sweetness of the cheesecake and caramel. Don’t Overmix the Cheesecake: While mixing the cream cheese and sugar, avoid overmixing after adding the eggs. This helps prevent cracks in the cheesecake as it bakes. Cool Gradually: Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature before refrigerating. This gradual cooling helps set the texture and prevents condensation. Perfect Swirl Technique: When swirling the caramel, use a knife and make gentle, simple back-and-forth motions. Too much swirling can mix the caramel into the cheesecake instead of creating a beautiful marbled effect. {{image_2}} You can change the flavor by using different apple types. Granny Smith apples are tart and great for this recipe. Honeycrisp apples add a sweet crunch. You can also try Fuji or Gala for a sweeter taste. If you want to mix it up, consider adding chocolate or peanut butter swirls. Just melt some chocolate or peanut butter and gently swirl it into the cheesecake mixture before baking. This adds a fun twist and extra flavor. For a gluten-free crust, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs. You can find these at most grocery stores. This keeps the bars tasty while meeting gluten-free needs. If you need dairy-free options, use vegan cream cheese. Many brands make good dairy-free cream cheese. This keeps the creamy texture without using dairy. You can adapt this recipe for fall festivities. Add pumpkin puree to the cheesecake for a seasonal flavor. You can also use fresh cranberries for a tart touch. Adding seasonal spices like nutmeg or allspice can enhance the fall vibe. Just mix in a teaspoon or two with the cinnamon for a warm, cozy taste. To keep your caramel apple cheesecake bars fresh, use an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work well. If you stack them, place parchment paper between layers. This helps avoid sticking. Refrigerate them right after they cool. Make sure to cover them tightly to prevent drying out. If you want to save some bars for later, freezing is a great option. First, wrap each bar in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible. This keeps them fresh for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, take the bars out and let them thaw in the fridge overnight. This way, they stay creamy and delicious. In the fridge, these cheesecake bars last about five days. Look out for any signs of spoilage. If you see mold or a sour smell, it's best to throw them away. Enjoy your treats fresh for the best taste! Yes, you can! While graham cracker crumbs work great, you have options. Try using Oreos for a chocolate twist. A nut crust made from almonds or pecans is another tasty choice. If you want a gluten-free crust, use crushed gluten-free cookies. Each crust adds its own flavor, so feel free to experiment! Yes, chilling is key! It helps the bars set properly and develop flavor. After baking, let your bars cool to room temp. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This waiting time lets the cheesecake firm up. It also makes cutting the bars easier. Trust me, the flavor is worth the wait! Watch for a few signs. The edges should look golden and set. The center might jiggle a bit; that’s okay! It will firm up as it cools. You can also insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your bars are ready! In this blog post, I covered how to make delicious caramel apple cheesecake bars. I shared the key ingredients, steps for preparation, and tips for perfect texture. You can also try variations and learn how to store these treats. Remember, follow the instructions closely. Practice makes perfect! Enjoy these bars at your next gathering or as a sweet snack. They are sure to impress anyone who tastes them.$

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Delightful and Easy Recipe

Get ready for a sweet taste adventure with my Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars! This easy recipe combines creamy cheesecake, fresh

$- 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 teaspoon cumin - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained - 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen) - 1 red bell pepper, diced - 1 avocado, diced - 1 lime, juiced - 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice (for a heartier bowl) - Salsa or pico de gallo (for serving) - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) - Crumbled feta or queso fresco (for topping, optional) The primary ingredients create a base full of flavor. Sweet potatoes provide a sweet and hearty texture. Olive oil helps the spices stick and adds richness. Cumin and smoked paprika give the dish warmth and depth. Black beans and corn add protein and crunch. The diced red bell pepper gives freshness. Don't forget the avocado for creaminess and lime for bright flavor. For a heartier bowl, consider adding quinoa or brown rice. These grains offer more substance and nutrition. You can use fresh or frozen corn, depending on what you have. Salsa or pico de gallo adds a zesty kick when served. Toppings like fresh cilantro brighten up the dish. Crumbled feta or queso fresco adds a creamy, salty finish if you like. Each ingredient adds its own charm and makes the taco bowl fun and tasty! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Next, take your two medium sweet potatoes and peel them if you prefer. Then, dice them into small cubes. In a large bowl, add the sweet potato cubes. Pour in one tablespoon of olive oil, and sprinkle one teaspoon of cumin, one teaspoon of smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything well until the sweet potatoes are nicely coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet in one single layer. Roast in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even cooking. While your sweet potatoes roast, it is time to warm the black beans and corn. In a medium pot over medium heat, add one can of rinsed and drained black beans along with one cup of corn kernels. Stir in some salt and pepper, then heat for about five minutes. You want them warm but not mushy. This step adds more flavor and texture to your taco bowls. Once the sweet potatoes are done, it’s time to put your taco bowls together. If you want a heartier meal, start with a base of one cup of cooked quinoa or brown rice. Next, layer the roasted sweet potatoes on top. Add the warm black beans and corn mixture. Don’t forget to include the diced red bell pepper, which you can marinate in lime juice for a few minutes. Finally, add diced avocado for creaminess. Top it all off with fresh cilantro, salsa or pico de gallo. If you like, sprinkle crumbled feta or queso fresco on top. Enjoy your colorful and tasty taco bowls! When picking sweet potatoes, look for firm ones. They should be smooth and free of spots. Avoid any with soft spots or wrinkles. A good sweet potato feels heavy for its size. I prefer medium-sized ones for even cooking. You can find them in many colors, but orange is the most common. To make sweet potatoes shine, use simple spices. Cumin and smoked paprika bring warmth and depth. You only need a teaspoon of each for great taste. Don't forget salt and pepper to balance flavors. You can also add garlic powder for a savory kick. Mix these spices with olive oil before roasting. Roasting sweet potatoes brings out their natural sweetness. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) for best results. Cut them into even dice for uniform cooking. Toss them in a bowl with oil and spices. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway. They should be tender and a bit caramelized when done. Enjoy the rich flavor in your taco bowls! Pro Tips Perfectly Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Ensure even cooking by cutting the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces. This helps them roast evenly and caramelize beautifully. Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the sweet potato seasoning mix. Avocado Storage: To keep diced avocado from browning, toss it with a little lime juice before adding it to your taco bowls. Make It a Meal Prep: This recipe is great for meal prep! Store the components separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge. {{image_2}} Sweet potato taco bowls are great for everyone. To make them vegetarian or vegan, skip the cheese. Instead, add more toppings like guacamole or spicy salsa. You can also use plant-based yogurt for creaminess. This way, you keep all the flavor without any animal products. This dish is already gluten-free! The sweet potatoes and beans are safe for those with gluten issues. Just be sure your salsa or any sauces are gluten-free too. Always check the labels to ensure they meet your needs. If you want a protein boost, try adding lentils or chickpeas. They work well with sweet potatoes and add great texture. You can also use grilled chicken or shrimp if you prefer meat. Both options pair nicely with the other flavors in the bowl. You can keep leftover sweet potato taco bowls in the fridge. Use an airtight container for storage. They stay fresh for three to four days. Keep the toppings separate to prevent sogginess. This way, your meal will taste great when you eat it later. To reheat, use the microwave or oven. If using a microwave, place the bowl in for one to two minutes. Make sure to stir halfway through to heat evenly. For the oven, set it to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes. This helps keep the sweet potatoes crispy. You can freeze the sweet potato, black beans, and corn. Store them in freezer-safe bags. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Then reheat as mentioned. This way, you can enjoy a quick meal anytime! Yes, you can use other types of potatoes. Regular white potatoes or Yukon gold work well. They have a different taste and texture. Sweet potatoes add a nice sweetness, but other potatoes can be tasty too. Just remember, they may not caramelize the same way. Adjust cooking time based on the potato type you choose. If you don't have black beans, you have choices. You can use pinto beans or kidney beans instead. Chickpeas are another great option for a different flavor. Each bean brings its own taste and texture. Just rinse and drain them before adding to your bowl. To add spice, you can use jalapeños or chili powder. Mixing in some cayenne pepper will also heat things up. If you love hot sauce, drizzle some on top before serving. Adjust the spice level based on your taste. Enjoy the heat! In this blog post, we explored how to make delicious taco bowls using sweet potatoes and beans. We covered the key ingredients, how to cook them, and tasty tips for extra flavor. You learned about fun variations, too, like vegan and gluten-free options. Remember, you can customize these bowls to fit your taste. Enjoy making them your own, and share them with friends and family. Simple meals can be exciting when you get creative!$

Sweet Potato Taco Bowls Flavorful and Nutritious Meal

Looking for a meal that’s both tasty and healthy? Sweet Potato Taco Bowls are your answer! They’re packed with flavor

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