Valentines day ideas

Easy, feel-good meals and treats that make Valentine’s Day special without making it complicated.

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what’s new

Here’s what’s new on The Defined Dish! You won’t want to miss these!


welcome! I’m Alex.

I’m a foodie behind The Defined Dish who loves creating and sharing healthy, simple, and delicious recipes. My passion for cooking has led to two New York Times bestselling cookbooks as well as recipes for every occasion that you will find here. From my kitchen to yours, let’s get cooking!


make ahead breakfasts

This collection of prep-ahead breakfasts is all about making mornings smoother. From make-ahead egg dishes to freezer-friendly breakfasts and grab-and-go options, these recipes help you fuel your day with ease and intention.

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Get my cookbooks!

All three of my New York Times bestselling cookbooks, The Defined Dish, The Comfortable Kitchen, and Dinner Tonight continue to share the same healthy, wholesome, and delicious recipes I love to create. Learn more about my latest release, Dinner Tonight, here.

sWEET and easy

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Thin Mint Energy Bites

Girl Scout cookie fans rejoice — we are back with another remake! These Thin Mint Energy Bites are about to be on repeat in your kitchens.


make mealtime easier with SideDish!

I created SideDish dressings and sauces to make weeknight cooking easier, healthier, and more delicious. With a variety of versatile flavors, SideDish is the perfect way to elevate any meal. Plus, all products are seed oil-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly! Shop now at getsidedish.com or find us in select Whole Foods, H-E-B, Central Market, and Harris Teeter locations.

Let’s eat lunch!

These healthy lunch ideas are all about simple, nourishing meals you can prep ahead and enjoy all week. Think protein-packed tuna salad, flavorful chicken salad, and easy make-ahead lunches that keep you fueled, satisfied, and feeling good.

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cozy soups & stews

These cozy soups and stews are the kind of meals that warm you from the inside out — comforting, nourishing, and made with simple, wholesome ingredients. From brothy bowls to hearty stews, these recipes are designed to feel satisfying without feeling heavy, perfect for slow evenings and chilly days.

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slow cooker AND INSTANT POT RECIPES

These Crockpot and Instant Pot recipes are perfect for those days when you just need something easy and reliable. Filled with some of my most popular go-to meals, this collection is all about throwing everything in, letting it do its thing, and coming back to something warm, comforting, and nourishing.

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YouTube video

chicken and rice taco skillet

This Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet is a weeknight hero in my house and I know it will be in yours, too! So much flavor in one skillet, what more could you ask for?


satisfying salads

These satisfying salads are anything but boring. Built with hearty ingredients, bold flavors, and plenty of texture, they’re the kind of salads that actually keep you full and feeling nourished — perfect for lunch or an easy dinner.

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Most popular Dinner recipes

Need inspiration for dinner tonight? I got you! These are the dinner recipes that are currently trending as MOST POPULAR, try them for yourself and you’ll see why!

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