Happy New Year!
This past year was full of highlights and growth. For me, 2016 brought travel, new discoveries, and meaningful personal progress, along with steady momentum for the blog. I’m grateful for the support, excited about what we accomplished, and eager for the year ahead.
I have many plans for the blog and would love your input to help shape priorities. What types of recipes would you like to see more of? Would you enjoy short cooking videos featuring simple techniques and tips? How can I make the site easier and more enjoyable for you to use? Your feedback will guide content, format, and features in the coming year.
Please take a moment to complete a short reader survey—your responses are private and will directly influence future content. If you prefer, you can also email your thoughts to TheRoastedRoot(at)gmail(dot)com. Thank you for taking part and for being part of this community.
CLICK HERE TO TAKE SURVEY
Thank you for reading, for sharing this space, and for your continued encouragement. Your suggestions and feedback have made this year meaningful, and I look forward to making 2017 on The Roasted Root even more useful, delicious, and enjoyable for you.
Below are my Top 16 recipes from 2016. These are reader favorites and recipes I loved sharing—recipes that are easy to make, flavorful, and rooted in whole-food ingredients.
# 1 No-Churn 3-Ingredient Vanilla Ice Cream
A simple, creamy ice cream that requires no machine and just three ingredients—perfect for warm evenings or a quick homemade treat.
#2 Grain-Free Almond Butter Protein Pancakes
These pancakes are hearty, grain-free, and protein-packed—ideal for a filling breakfast that keeps you satisfied through the morning.
#3 Healthy Gut Smoothie
A nourishing smoothie built around gut-friendly ingredients and probiotic-rich additions for a calming, restorative drink.
#4 Coconut Tapioca Pudding
A silky, dairy-free pudding that works as dessert or a comforting breakfast—naturally sweet and suitable for special diets.
#5 Grain-Free Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
Moist and satisfying, this banana bread swaps grains for whole-food alternatives and adds chocolate chips for a crowd-pleasing touch.
#6 Vegetarian Ramen with Garlic-Ginger Broth
A warm, flavorful bowl with an aromatic broth full of garlic and ginger—comforting and easy to customize with your favorite vegetables.
#7 Wasabi Vegetable Bowls
A vibrant veggie bowl with a creamy, spicy wasabi dressing—great for a quick lunch or a light dinner.
#8 Sweet Potato, Sausage, and Kale Breakfast Casserole
A savory, make-ahead casserole that combines sweet potato, sausage, and kale for a balanced and flavorful morning meal.
#9 Vegetable Fried Rice
A versatile, fully loaded fried rice that turns leftover rice and vegetables into a fast, satisfying meal.
#10 Deep Dish Paleo Salted Chocolate Chip Cookie
A decadent, thick cookie with a crisp edge and a soft, gooey center—made with paleo-friendly ingredients and finished with a sprinkle of sea salt.
#11 30-Minute Thai Chicken Curry
A quick, fragrant curry that comes together in about half an hour—rich flavors with minimal fuss.
#12 Hummus-Marinated Chicken Satay
A creative twist on classic satay: chicken marinated in hummus for extra creaminess and flavor before grilling or baking.
#13 Stuffed Portobello Mushroom Pizzas
These mushroom “pizzas” are hearty, low-carb, and perfect as a satisfying vegetarian main or appetizer.
#14 Vanilla Chai Overnight Oats
A cozy, spiced overnight oats recipe that’s ready in the morning—mildly sweet and full of chai flavor.
#15 Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Buddha Bowls
Colorful roasted vegetables on a bed of quinoa, finished with toasted nuts and a creamy sauce—balanced, nourishing, and great for meal prep.
#16 Herby Avocado Egg Salad Sandwiches
A fresh take on egg salad that uses avocado and herbs for creaminess and bright flavor—perfect for sandwiches or a light lunch.
Cheers to a New Year! Thank you again for reading, sharing, and contributing. I’m excited to continue this journey together.
xo