Inside BruCrew Life

menu icon
subscribe
search icon
Get my Cheesecake Cookbook! →

Chili Lime Cod

Infused with spices, you'll love this oven baked chili lime cod with roasted vegetables. The baked fish feels fancy but is actually simple enough for a busy weeknight. This easy sheet pan dinner is ready in 30 minutes and is fantastic served with pasta or rice.

If you enjoy seafood, try our healthy tuna salad or shrimp zucchini noodles.

Chili lime cod and roasted veggies on a white plate.

This post was first published in August 2017. It was updated and republished in January 2026.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Lately, we have been making and enjoying meals loaded with vegetables and different proteins. I've been mixing things up each week by trying a new fish recipe. Honestly, I wasn't a big fan of seafood, but I'm starting to enjoy it more after trying baked white fish.

Cod is mild, flaky, and easy to work with, which makes it perfect for quick dinners. For this sheet pan dinner, I made a simple chili spice blend and rubbed it onto thawed cod with a bit of oil and lime juice. Then I baked it with a few veggies we had in the fridge.

Dinner came together so fast, and the flavor seriously surprised me! I love eating this baked cod with roasted vegetables and cauliflower rice or using it in fish taco bowls.

Why You'll Love Sheet Pan Cod

  • One pan dinner. The best part is that everything cooks together, so cleanup is quick and easy.
  • Big flavor. The homemade chili seasoning adds a bold flavor to the sheet pan meal.
  • Fast and simple. Dinner is on the table in 30 minutes.
  • Flexible. Use your favorite vegetables or spice blend to make it your own.
[Read more...]

Cabbage Vegetable Soup

This cabbage vegetable soup recipe has a hearty blend of cabbage, tomatoes, and root vegetables. It's a light and delicious meal that is easy to make and great for lunch and dinner.

Looking for more healthy dinners? This fish taco bowl and these cheeseburger zucchini boats are two of our favorites.

Two bowls of cabbage vegetable soup.

The post for lean mean veggie soup was originally published in January 2012.  The pictures were updated in January 2022 and then republished in January 2026.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Veggies are my favorite way to reset at the start of each new year. This cabbage vegetable soup has been a staple in our kitchen for years, even before cabbage became trendy. It's simple, comforting, and packed with flavor.

Back when the cabbage soup diet was popular, I tried it and thought it was pretty bland. However, after adding more veggies, herbs, and spices, I finally created a version I could enjoy all week.

Our low carb veggie soup is packed with tomatoes, cabbage, carrots, peppers, and kale. I love that it is colorful and full of texture. Eating lighter doesn't mean sacrificing flavor, and this simple soup recipe has definitely earned a permanent spot in our meal rotation.

If you're craving something light and delicious, this soup is a great choice. It comes together in 30 minutes, works perfectly for meal prep, and makes a big pot you can enjoy all week.

Why You'll Love This Cabbage Soup Recipe

  • Loaded with vegetables. Every bowl is packed with fresh veggies, making it a delicious way to enjoy more produce in one meal.
  • Great for using what you have. This soup is great for cleaning out the veggie drawer or adding your favorite protein.
  • Simple and flavorful. Basic ingredients come together with herbs and seasonings to create a dinner that tastes anything but boring.
  • Perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch once and enjoy easy lunches or dinners all week long.
  • Light but comforting. It warms you up without feeling heavy, so it is great any time of year.
[Read more...]

Pizza Zucchini Noodle Salad

If you like simple salads with classic flavors, this zucchini noodle salad is one you need to try. The raw zoodles, along with pizza toppings, are tossed in a light dressing. It's easy to make, so it's great for busy nights or last-minute cookouts when you want something fresh.

Two white plates with pizza zucchini noodle salad on it.

The post for pizza zucchini salad was first published in July 2018. It was updated and republished in January 2026.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Pizza has always been one of our favorite meals. When our kids were growing up, Friday nights usually meant ordering takeout or making homemade pizza.

This year, I have been watching my carbs, so adding those pizza flavors to a simple salad sounded good. I also pulled my spiralizer out of the back of the pantry, and it's quickly become one of my favorite kitchen tools. It turns vegetables into fun curly noodles, which are the perfect low-carb swap for pasta.

I mixed my favorite toppings with zoodles to make a quick, fresh zucchini noodle salad. That fresh salad, along with pizza cauliflower nachos, satisfied my pizza cravings.

Why You'll Love Pizza Zucchini Noodles

  • Pizza without the carbs. All the classic pizza flavors you love, just tossed into a fresh, light salad.
  • Quick and easy to make. A few simple ingredients and 15 minutes are all you need to get this cold salad on the table.
  • Easy to customize. Add olives, peppers, or your favorite pizza toppings to make it your own.
  • Perfect for summer meals. This no-cook zoodle salad is refreshing and perfect for hot days, picnics, or backyard barbecues.
[Read more...]

Banana Chocolate Protein Cookies

Enjoy dessert for breakfast with these banana chocolate protein cookies. Loaded with wholesome ingredients and chocolate flavor, these breakfast cookies are a great way to start the day or satisfy your sweet tooth.

If you are a fan of chocolate for breakfast, you will love these chocolate protein pancakes or this mocha chia pudding.

A couple of banana chocolate protein cookies on a lined pan.

The post and recipe for banana chocolate chip breakfast cookies were first published in January 2018. It was updated and republished in January 2025.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

I always buy too many bananas each week. Usually, we turn them into banana protein pancakes or a cherry smoothie. This week, I sweetened a batch of chocolate protein cookies with the extra bananas. They satisfied my chocolate cravings while giving me a little extra protein, which feels like a win.

Chocolate protein powder and dark cocoa give these cookies a rich flavor, while oats and mashed banana keep them hearty and sweet. I added chia seeds for an extra boost, but you can skip them if you want.

A few mini chocolate chips on top make them even better because chocolate on cookies just makes sense. I love that I can stick to my health goals and still enjoy cookies!

Why You'll Love These Protein Oatmeal Cookies

These wholesome treats are soft and hearty. Think breakfast cookie meets protein snack. They go so well with coffee or a morning smoothie.

  • Cookies for breakfast. They taste like a treat but are made with real ingredients, making them great for morning or snacks.
  • Filled with chocolate and protein. Cocoa powder and chocolate protein powder give each cookie its chocolate flavor and 6 grams of protein each.
  • Perfectly sweet. These cookies are lightly sweetened with bananas, which is great if you are cutting back on refined sugar.
[Read more...]

Cherry Smoothie

This banana cherry smoothie is a sweet treat you can make in under 5 minutes. It's thick, creamy, and packed with fruit and Greek yogurt, making it a delicious meal or dessert.

Two glasses filled with a cherry banana smoothie and a paper straw.

The post and recipe for this cherry banana smoothie were originally published in January 2014.  It was updated and republished in January 2026.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

As a dessert lover with a serious sweet tooth, I'm always looking for food that won't make me feel like I'm missing out.

Right now, dessert-inspired smoothies have my attention. They satisfy my sweet cravings but completely fit with my nutrition goals.

This cherry smoothie is one of my favorites because it reminds me of dessert. The combination of frozen cherries, cinnamon, and almond extract makes it taste like cherry pie, but it's a creamy protein smoothie you can enjoy anytime.

Why You'll Love A Smothie With Frozen Cherries

It's great for busy mornings, quick lunches, or those mid-afternoon cravings for something sweet. This recipe is a perfect way to change up your daily routine.

  • Dessert inspired. The almond extract and cinnamon give this smoothie its classic cherry pie flavor. You are going to love it!
  • Thick and creamy texture. Frozen fruit and Greek yogurt combine to make a sweet, protein-packed treat.
  • So easy to make. You throw everything into the blender at once, making it quick and fun to prepare.
[Read more...]

Strawberry Yogurt Parfaits

Layers of creamy yogurt, sweet fruit, and crunchy granola make these strawberry yogurt parfaits an easy, sweet treat. They are simple, fresh, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.

If you are adding more protein to your mornings, you might like this berry orange smoothie or this strawberry smoothie bowl.

Two strawberry yogurt parfaits topped with granola and fresh blueberries.

The post for strawberry yogurt parfaits was first published in May 2017. It was updated and republished in January 2026.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

I have to be honest. Breakfast used to be the meal I skipped the most. But over the years, I have learned that starting the day with a higher protein meal keeps me going longer.

Plus, when you are modeling healthy food choices to growing kids, you have to walk the walk. Our kids love yogurt and fruit in jars, so these cute little parfaits quickly became favorites.

Recently, I made an easy strawberry sauce with honey, and I knew it would be delicious layered with Greek yogurt. Plus, having breakfast ready to go on busy mornings keeps me from reaching for something less filling when I'm short on time.

Why You'll Love Yogurt With Strawberries

  • Easy to prep ahead. These jars can be assembled in small Mason jars and stored in the fridge for quick breakfasts all week.
  • Simple ingredients. Greek yogurt, fresh fruits, and granola come together in minutes.
  • Just the right amount of sweetness. The honey-sweetened strawberries add the perfect touch of sweetness to the tart yogurt.
  • Great texture. The mix of creamy, juicy, and crunchy creates a mix of textures in every bite.
[Read more...]

Easy Strawberry Sauce

This easy strawberry sauce is ready in minutes. Made with fresh berries, honey, and lime zest, it makes the perfect topping for pancakes, waffles, cheesecake, ice cream, and so much more.

Looking for more ways to use fresh strawberries? Check out these mini strawberry pies and these strawberry cheesecake milkshakes.

A jar of strawberry sauce with a spoonful being lifted out of it.

The post on honey strawberry sauce was first published in May 2017. It was updated and republished in January 2026.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Something about strawberries instantly takes me back to childhood. My mom always took us strawberry picking every spring, and I loved eating warm berries straight from the plants.

Years later, I did the same thing with our kids. They always had a bucket, but I did all the picking while they snacked their way down the row. Some things never change, and I guess that is all part of the strawberry experience.

I love coming home with boxes and boxes of fresh berries. Those farm-fresh berries make the best desserts and smoothies. This year, I transformed my blueberry sauce into an easy strawberry sauce with honey. A pinch of lime zest is my favorite way to add a brighter citrus flavor.

Why You'll Love This Strawberry Fruit Sauce

  • Just three ingredients. This simple strawberry sauce only has fresh berries, honey, and lime zest.
  • Naturally sweetened. Honey adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the fruit flavor.
  • Quick stovetop recipe. Everything comes together in one saucepan in a matter of minutes.
  • So many ways to use it. This strawberry topping is perfect for breakfast, dessert, and just about anything you want to drizzle it on.
[Read more...]

Berry Orange Smoothie

This creamy berry orange smoothie is made with frozen fruit, orange juice, Greek yogurt, and vanilla protein powder. It's a simple breakfast smoothie that comes together in minutes and is great for busy mornings or afternoon pick-me-ups.

Looking for more easy smoothies to start your day? Try our cherry banana smoothie or raspberry mint smoothie.

Two clear cups filled with a pink berry orange smoothie.

This berry orange smoothie recipe was first published in January 2017. It was updated and republished in January 2025.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

I always find myself craving healthier foods once the new year begins. After weeks of holiday baking and enjoying treats, I am feeling tired. All the heavy meals and extra sugar have definitely caught up to me.

One of my favorite ways to get back on track after the holiday months is with protein-packed smoothies. I love pairing my smoothie with bacon egg tacos or ham and cheese egg muffins for a high-protein start to my day.

This orange berry smoothie is my go-to for breakfast or a post-workout recovery snack. It's also perfect when I need something fast to satisfy my sweet tooth.

Why You'll Love A Smoothie With Orange Juice

  • Quick and easy to make. Everything goes into the blender, and it's ready in one minute, which is perfect for busy mornings.
  • Creamy texture. The frozen fruit gives this smoothie a thick, creamy texture without needing additional ingredients.
  • Filled with protein. The protein and fiber in this drink keep you full and satisfied longer.
  • Fun to customize. You can swap the fruit, add more yogurt, or skip the banana to switch things up, depending on what is in your freezer.
[Read more...]

Eggnog Cookie Bars

These eggnog bars are a favorite holiday treat. They have a soft, buttery sugar cookie base and that festive eggnog flavor we love. Made with eggnog in the bars and the creamy frosting, this easy dessert is perfect for cookie trays, parties, or a busy holiday season.

Love that sweet holiday nog? You need to add this eggnog bundt cake and eggnog dip to your dessert plans.

A stack of frosted eggnog bars with a bite out of the top bar.

This post and recipe were first published in November 2014. It was updated and republished in December 2025.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Eggnog is one of those things you either love or hate, and I have always been firmly on team love. I first made these eggnog cookie bars in 2014. Because they are so good, I keep adding them to my holiday baking year after year.

For years, our boys would always finish the eggnog before I got to all my recipes. So, I learned to buy two cartons: one for them to drink and one for me to bake with.

As much as I love sugar cookies, there comes a point in December when rolling, cutting, and decorating is too much work. I used our extra eggnog to transform my unicorn sugar cookie bars into a one-pan holiday delight.

These cookie bars are soft, buttery, and have eggnog in the cookie base and the creamy frosting. Trust me, they are the perfect holiday dessert for parties. Even after all these years, they still get compliments every time I make them. And when my husband says a dessert is good, I know it's a keeper!

  • Made in one pan. These cookies are baked and frosted in a 9x13 pan, so no rolling or cutting is necessary.
  • Double eggnog flavor. Eggnog is used in the cookie crust and the frosting, so they are full of holiday cheer.
  • Soft and buttery texture. These bars bake up soft and tender, so they taste just like a classic sugar cookie.
  • Awesome holiday dessert. Frosted cookie bars are great for cookie trays, Christmas parties, or just because you have leftover eggnog in your fridge.
[Read more...]

Merry Christmas 2025

Holiday Christmas card with our family in front of the tree.

As the year comes to a close, we want to take a moment to say how thankful we are for you.

Whether you have been here for years or just recently discovered our recipes, your support, comments, and reviews mean the world to us. Sharing food and everyday moments with you is truly a gift.

During the holiday rush, we hope that you found time to slow down, breathe deeply, and notice the many blessings that God has placed in your life. There is so much beauty in the stillness when we choose to pause.

Christmas is a reminder of what matters most. Long before the presents and celebrations, God gave us the greatest gift through the birth of His Son. Jesus came to bring hope, peace, and unconditional love to a broken world, and that truth never grows old.

We pray you are filled with gratitude and joy as you reflect on the miracle of His birth. From our home to yours, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

"...and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6b