### About the Author: Holly Nilsson

Holly Nilsson is a food creator and the visionary behind the well-known culinary blog, Spend With Pennies. With an emphasis on developing simple, comforting recipes that reflect the realities of daily life, Holly has made a name for herself as a reliable resource for home chefs aiming to ease their cooking processes without compromising on taste. Her enthusiasm for nostalgic flavors and uncomplicated cooking methods resonates with busy families and individuals, making her recipes both approachable and delightful.

#### A Culinary Journey

Holly’s path into the world of cooking began with a strong appreciation for meals prepared at home that evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Inspired by her own kitchen experiences, she aims to produce recipes that remind people of the comfort found in home-cooked food. Her philosophy centers around the idea that cooking ought to be a joyful pursuit, not a tedious task. This belief is evident in her blog, where she shares an array of recipes, from fulfilling dinners to scrumptious desserts, all crafted to be made with simplicity.

#### Everyday Comfort: A Cookbook for Home Cooks

Alongside her blog, Holly has authored “Everyday Comfort,” a cookbook that delves deeper into her passion for hearty, homemade meals. This assortment of recipes encourages home cooks to whip up tasty dishes that can be savored with family and friends. With a focus on ease and flavor, “Everyday Comfort” invites readers to embrace their kitchens and experiment with new tastes while keeping the process enjoyable.

#### Engaging with the Community

Holly’s dedication to her audience goes beyond just her recipes. She engages actively with her followers across various social media channels, where she shares cooking advice, behind-the-scenes looks at her culinary endeavors, and interacts with her community. Her presence on platforms like Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram enables her to connect with food lovers and motivate them to try fresh recipes.

– **Follow Holly on Social Media:**
– [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/spendpennies/)
– [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/ispendwithpennies/)
– [Twitter](http://spendpennies)
– [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/spendpennies/)

#### Conclusion

Holly Nilsson’s commitment to making cooking easy and enjoyable has made her a cherished figure in the culinary world. Through her blog, Spend With Pennies, and her cookbook, “Everyday Comfort,” she consistently inspires home chefs to create flavorful meals that bring happiness to their tables. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out in the kitchen, Holly’s recipes provide something for everyone, demonstrating that wonderful food can be prepared with passion and straightforwardness.

For further delectable recipes and cooking inspiration, be sure to explore Holly’s work at [Spend With Pennies](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/author/holly/).

Introducing Alex & Sonja Overhiser: The Couple Behind A Couple Cooks

Alex and Sonja Overhiser are the vibrant pair behind A Couple Cooks, a well-loved food blog that has emerged as an essential resource for home chefs in search of fresh, tasty, and easy-to-follow recipes. Since they launched their platform in 2010, the Overhisers have cultivated a flourishing online community focused on the joy of cooking together, healthful eating, and seasonal ingredients.

From Kitchen Newbies to Cookbook Creators

Alex and Sonja’s culinary adventure commenced as newlyweds eager to eat healthier and enjoy quality time together. Lacking any formal culinary education, they learned to cook through trial and error with whole foods and straightforward techniques. Their enthusiasm for food soon evolved into a common goal: to motivate others to prepare meals at home and relish the experience.

In 2018, they released their debut cookbook, Pretty Simple Cooking, which garnered recognition as one of the top vegetarian cookbooks by Epicurious and Food & Wine. This book not only highlights delectable, plant-based recipes but also underscores the emotional and relational rewards of cooking as a couple. Their follow-up cookbook, A Couple Cooks: Healthy and Whole, maintains this focus, emphasizing the Mediterranean diet and wholesome recipes that are both nourishing and delightful.

A Couple Cooks: Beyond Just Recipes

A Couple Cooks distinguishes itself through its focus on lifestyle and community. The blog showcases over 3,000 carefully tested recipes accommodating a variety of dietary preferences, including:

• Mediterranean Diet – Heart-healthy meals influenced by the cuisines of Greece, Italy, and more.
• Vegetarian & Vegan – Flavorful, satisfying, plant-based dishes that are simple to prepare.
• Pescatarian – Recipes containing seafood for those who consume fish.
• Healthy Smoothies – Nutrient-rich drinks ideal for breakfast or a midday pick-me-up.
• Craft Cocktails – Inventive and refreshing drinks perfect for entertaining or relaxing at home.

Each recipe is crafted with precision, tested several times, and photographed by Alex and Sonja themselves. Their friendly style and straightforward instructions make even intricate dishes feel accessible for home cooks of any experience level.

Encouraging a Joyful, Balanced Relationship with Food

At the core of Alex and Sonja’s philosophy lies the notion that cooking should be a joyous experience rather than a burden. They promote a balanced eating approach—one that values whole foods, seasonal fruits and vegetables, and mindful indulgence. Their recipes frequently incorporate simple ingredients and require minimal preparation time, facilitating easier home-cooked meals for busy individuals and families.

In addition to recipes, A Couple Cooks provides resources for meal planning, tips for the kitchen, and sustainable living. Their podcast and social media platforms further amplify their message of connection through food, featuring conversations with chefs, nutritionists, and fellow food lovers.

Fostering a Movement of Home Cooks

Throughout the years, Alex and Sonja have motivated thousands of readers to view the kitchen as a space for creativity, nourishment, and togetherness. Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to the culinary world, A Couple Cooks presents a welcoming environment to discover new tastes, enhance your cooking abilities, and reconnect with the fundamental joy of preparing a meal from scratch.

To delve into their recipes and learn more about their journey, visit A Couple Cooks.

### About the Author: Holly Nilsson

Holly Nilsson is a creative culinary expert and the energetic mind behind the well-loved food blog, Spend With Pennies. Aiming to make cooking uncomplicated for busy home cooks, Holly focuses on developing simple, comforting recipes that evoke nostalgic flavors. Her cooking philosophy highlights real-life practicality, ensuring it is accessible for everyone, no matter their level of culinary skill.

#### A Passion for Comfort Food

Holly’s enthusiasm for cooking is rooted in her wish to create dishes that provide warmth and coziness. Her recipes frequently take cues from classic meals, reinterpreted with simplified methods that enable anyone to recreate them in their own kitchens. Be it a fulfilling casserole, a flavorful soup, or a tempting dessert, Holly’s dishes aim to unite families around the dinner table.

#### Author of “Everyday Comfort”

Alongside her vast array of recipes on Spend With Pennies, Holly is also the writer of the book “Everyday Comfort.” This work serves as a resource to motivate home cooks to craft hearty, home-cooked meals that are both comforting and straightforward to prepare. The book embodies Holly’s cooking ethos—centered around familiar flavors and uncomplicated techniques, making it an ideal guide for anyone wishing to refine their cooking abilities.

#### Engaging with the Community

Holly’s enthusiasm for cooking reaches further than just her recipes; she actively interacts with her community through multiple social media channels. By sharing her culinary adventures on Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, she connects with her followers, offering insights into her kitchen while motivating them to share their own cooking tales.

– **Pinterest**: [Follow Holly on Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/spendpennies/)
– **Facebook**: [Connect with Holly on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/ispendwithpennies/)
– **Twitter**: [Join Holly on Twitter](http://spendpennies)
– **Instagram**: [Follow Holly on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/spendpennies/)

#### Conclusion

Holly Nilsson’s commitment to making cooking fun and accessible has established her as a cherished personality in the culinary world. Through her blog, recipes, and social media engagement, she continues to motivate numerous home cooks to prepare delightful meals that infuse joy and comfort into their lives. Whether you are an experienced chef or just getting started, Holly’s work is certain to inspire you to spend more time in the kitchen, crafting unforgettable meals for yourself and your loved ones.

For more delectable recipes and insights from Holly, be sure to visit her blog, [Spend With Pennies](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/author/holly/).

**7-Day Nutritious Meal Plan for April 28 to May 4 – Complimentary Weekly Guide**

Want to eat better this spring? Our 7-Day Nutritious Meal Plan for April 28 to May 4 provides an excellent opportunity to rejuvenate your eating patterns, savor seasonal ingredients, and maintain energy levels all week long. This complimentary weekly guide presents meals that are well-balanced, simple to prepare, nutritionally abundant, and delightfully enjoyable.

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### Why Adhere to a Meal Plan?

Meal planning allows you to:
– Conserve time and money
– Minimize food waste
– Opt for healthier selections
– Steer clear of last-minute unhealthy options

This plan emphasizes whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats, and an abundance of fruits and vegetables. It’s perfect for both individuals and families aiming to sustain or enhance their overall well-being.

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## **Weekly Overview**

– **Daily Calories**: ~1,800–2,000 (modifiable based on personal requirements)
– **Meals per day**: 3 meals + 1 snack
– **Focus**: Seasonal produce, balanced macronutrients, limited processed foods

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## **Day 1: Sunday, April 28**

**Breakfast**: Greek yogurt topped with honey, sliced strawberries, and granola
**Lunch**: Grilled chicken salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and balsamic vinaigrette
**Snack**: Apple slices paired with almond butter
**Dinner**: Baked salmon served with quinoa and steamed asparagus

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## **Day 2: Monday, April 29**

**Breakfast**: Oatmeal with sliced bananas, chia seeds, and a drizzle of maple syrup
**Lunch**: Turkey and hummus wrap enriched with spinach and shredded carrots
**Snack**: Cottage cheese mixed with pineapple chunks
**Dinner**: Stir-fried tofu accompanied by broccoli, bell peppers, and brown rice

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## **Day 3: Tuesday, April 30**

**Breakfast**: Smoothie blended with spinach, frozen berries, banana, and almond milk
**Lunch**: Lentil soup served with a slice of whole-grain bread
**Snack**: A handful of mixed nuts
**Dinner**: Grilled shrimp tacos topped with cabbage slaw and avocado

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## **Day 4: Wednesday, May 1**

**Breakfast**: Scrambled eggs served with sautéed spinach and whole-grain toast
**Lunch**: Quinoa bowl featuring roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, corn, and lime dressing
**Snack**: Sliced cucumbers paired with hummus
**Dinner**: Baked chicken breast with mashed cauliflower and roasted Brussels sprouts

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## **Day 5: Thursday, May 2**

**Breakfast**: Chia pudding garnished with fresh blueberries and almonds
**Lunch**: Tuna salad stuffed in a whole wheat pita with lettuce and tomato
**Snack**: Hard-boiled egg along with a small orange
**Dinner**: Whole wheat pasta complemented by marinara sauce, turkey meatballs, and a side salad

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## **Day 6: Friday, May 3**

**Breakfast**: Avocado toast featuring a poached egg and cherry tomatoes
**Lunch**: Asian-inspired chicken lettuce wraps with shredded carrots and sesame dressing
**Snack**: Greek yogurt sprinkled with flaxseed
**Dinner**: Grilled vegetable and chickpea skewers accompanied by couscous

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## **Day 7: Saturday, May 4**

**Breakfast**: Whole grain pancakes topped with fresh berries and a dollop of Greek yogurt
**Lunch**: Portobello mushrooms stuffed with spinach and feta, served with quinoa
**Snack**: Trail mix (unsweetened dried fruit, nuts, seeds)
**Dinner**: Grilled steak or tempeh with roasted root vegetables and a green salad

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## **Tips for Success**

– **Prepare in advance**: Chop vegetables and cook grains ahead to save time.
– **Stay hydrated**: Aim for a minimum of 8 cups of water each day.
– **Listen to your body**: Modify portion sizes based on hunger and activity levels.
– **Get inventive**: Change ingredients according to what’s available or your tastes.

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## **Shopping List Highlights**

– Fresh produce: spinach, berries, sweet potatoes, avocados, tomatoes, broccoli
– Proteins: chicken breast, tofu, salmon, eggs, Greek yogurt, beans
– Whole grains: quinoa, brown rice, whole wheat bread/pasta
– Pantry essentials: olive oil, spices, hummus, nuts, seeds

—

**Final Thoughts**

This 7-day nutritious meal plan is an efficient way to nourish your body and relish the tastes of spring. Whether you’re eager to kickstart a healthier lifestyle or simply seek fresh meal ideas, this guide is here for you. Feel free to tailor it to match your dietary preferences and necessities.

**Download the printable version** of this meal plan and shopping list to simplify your week even more!

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*Note: Always consult with

# Celebrating the Overlooked Cabbage: Charred Salt and Vinegar Cabbage Recipe

As the seasons change and the hint of spring arrives, many of us are left with a sizable, overlooked cabbage resting in the refrigerator. While the vivid hues of blooming flowers and the debut of fresh produce such as ramps and asparagus indicate winter’s end, this resilient vegetable merits a moment in the limelight. If you’re seeking ideas to elevate that cabbage into a delectable dish, your search ends with the Charred Salt and Vinegar Cabbage recipe, a delightful variation of a traditional flavor pairing.

## The Inspiration for the Dish

This dish draws its inspiration from the cherished salt-and-vinegar potato chips, which represent an exemplary mix of tang and savoriness. Initially, the recipe featured thick potato slices, marinated in vinegar and salt, but an adventurous addition of cabbage uncovered a surprising revelation: the cabbage outshined the potatoes. The outcome was a dish that not only uplifted the humble cabbage but also crafted an irresistible flavor experience that is difficult to resist.

## Why Choose Cabbage?

Cabbage is frequently disregarded in the produce section, yet it is a nutritional gem. Packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, this adaptable vegetable fits seamlessly into an array of dishes. Its robust texture enables it to withstand high-heat cooking techniques, making it ideal for roasting. The Charred Salt and Vinegar Cabbage recipe capitalizes on these attributes, transforming cabbage into an incredibly flavorful side dish that complements numerous meals.

## The Recipe: Charred Salt and Vinegar Cabbage

### Ingredients

– 2 pounds (905 grams, or about 1 medium) green cabbage, halved, cored, and chopped into 1-to-2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons (25 grams) olive oil
– 1 teaspoon (3 grams) kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 2 tablespoons (30 grams) unsalted butter
– 4 garlic cloves, gently smashed
– 1/3 cup (80 grams) vegetable broth
– 1/3 cup (80 grams) white vinegar
– Sea salt, for finishing

### Directions

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Set your oven to 475°F (245°C).

2. **Prepare the Cabbage**: On a rimmed 9-by-13-inch baking sheet, combine the cabbage pieces with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper, ensuring they are well-coated. There’s no need to break apart the leafy layers; keep the pieces intact for a fulfilling texture.

3. **Incorporate Butter**: Distribute small pieces of unsalted butter over the cabbage, which will melt and enrich the flavor during roasting.

4. **Initial Roast**: Roast the cabbage in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, until it begins to blacken in areas.

5. **Turn and Add Garlic**: With a spatula, flip the cabbage and spread the smashed garlic cloves around the baking sheet.

6. **Second Roast**: Return the sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 15 minutes. The cabbage should appear charred, but trust the process; it will turn out perfectly.

7. **Add Broth and Vinegar**: Carefully pour the vegetable broth and white vinegar into the baking sheet, then place it back in the oven for a last 15 minutes. This allows the garlic to soften and the liquids to reduce into a delicious glaze.

8. **Finish and Serve**: Once finished, sprinkle with sea salt and get ready for the delightful flavors that await. Good luck resisting the temptation to nibble on the crispy bits directly from the pan!

## Conclusion

The Charred Salt and Vinegar Cabbage transcends being merely a side dish; it celebrates the often-ignored cabbage, transforming it into the centerpiece of the meal. With its dynamic flavors and satisfying texture, this recipe is perfect for those eager to savor winter vegetables one last time before the lighter offerings of spring take the stage. Whether enjoyed alongside grilled meats, roasted fish, or as a stand-alone dish, this cabbage recipe is sure to delight and motivate. So, retrieve that neglected cabbage from your fridge and give it the culinary attention it rightfully deserves!