Get to Know Alex & Sonja Overhiser: The Pair Behind A Couple Cooks

Alex and Sonja Overhiser are the vibrant pair behind A Couple Cooks, a widely-recognized food blog and culinary brand that has motivated countless home cooks globally. As authors of cookbooks, developers of recipes, and enthusiastic proponents of healthy, seasonal cuisine, Alex and Sonja have created a flourishing community focused on the joy of cooking together.

From Inexperienced Kitchen Hands to Culinary Innovators

The narrative of Alex and Sonja’s culinary adventure commenced in 2010 with the birth of their blog, A Couple Cooks. At that point, they were relatively inexperienced in the kitchen but had a strong desire to delve into the world of home-cooked meals. What began as a personal endeavor rapidly transformed into a comprehensive platform showcasing thousands of recipes, cooking advice, and lifestyle motivation.

Through experimentation, perseverance, and immense passion, the couple refined their culinary abilities and crafted a distinctive cooking philosophy: meals should be straightforward, nourishing, and prepared with love. Their friendly approach and focus on whole foods have struck a chord with readers eager to cook more at home while retaining flavor and creativity.

Authors of Cookbooks & Culinary Influencers

Beyond their online influence, Alex and Sonja have authored two well-regarded cookbooks:

• Pretty Simple Cooking – A guide featuring healthy, whole food recipes centered on plant-forward cuisine. This book was recognized as one of the top vegetarian cookbooks by Epicurious and Mind Body Green.
• A Couple Cooks: Healthy Seasonal Recipes – A compilation of colorful, seasonal dishes that embody their passion for Mediterranean-inspired meals and sustainable eating.

These cookbooks not only highlight their favorite recipes but also narrate their personal experiences and philosophy on cooking as a couple. Their work has appeared in prominent media outlets like The Washington Post, Food & Wine, and Bon Appétit.

An Extensive Recipe Collection

With over 3,000 thoroughly tested recipes on their website, Alex and Sonja cater to an array of dietary needs and lifestyles. Their recipe categories include:

• Mediterranean Diet – Heart-healthy meals inspired by Mediterranean flavors.
• Vegan & Vegetarian – Plant-based dishes that are both fulfilling and healthy.
• Pescatarian – Recipes highlighting seafood as a main protein source.
• Smoothies – Nourishing and invigorating drinks for any hour of the day.
• Cocktails – Inventive and refreshing drinks perfect for entertaining or unwinding at home.

Each recipe is carefully developed and tested to guarantee it is not only tasty but also reachable for cooks at all stages. Their photography and detailed instructions make it simple for anyone to follow and achieve success in the kitchen.

Cooking Together as a Couple

A standout feature of Alex and Sonja’s brand is their focus on cooking together as a couple. They are convinced that meal preparation side-by-side strengthens bonds and fosters memorable experiences. Their blog and books frequently include personal stories, advice for collaboration in the kitchen, and motivation for couples to embrace cooking as a mutual journey.

Empowering a Community

In addition to recipes, Alex and Sonja leverage their platform to advocate for mindful eating, sustainability, and the unifying power of food. They have built a dedicated community of readers who turn to them not only for meal suggestions but also for encouragement on leading a more purposeful and joyful life through cooking.

Join the Movement

Whether you’re an experienced home chef or just beginning your culinary adventure, Alex and Sonja Overhiser provide a treasure trove of tools to help you fall in love with cooking. Visit A Couple Cooks to uncover their recipes, learn about their journey, and see how cooking together can transform your kitchen—and your life.

**Strawberry Crisp Dessert Recipe: A Sweet and Simple Treat**

If you are in search of a delectable and straightforward dessert that showcases the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries, your search ends here with a homemade strawberry crisp. This traditional dessert fuses luscious strawberries with a rich, crumbly oat topping for a comforting and tempting delight. Whether you’re throwing a dinner gathering or just in the mood for something sweet, this strawberry crisp is guaranteed to be a hit.

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### Why This Dessert Will Charm You

– **Easy Ingredients**: The majority of the components are kitchen staples.
– **Quick to Make**: Minimal preparation time and no complex procedures.
– **Flexible**: Easily modified with other fruits such as rhubarb, blueberries, or peaches.
– **Ideal for Any Event**: Perfect for casual weeknight desserts or festive occasions.

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### Ingredients

#### For the Strawberry Filling:
– 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved (or quartered if large)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

#### For the Crisp Topping:
– 3/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

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### Directions

#### 1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch square baking dish or a similarly sized oven-safe dish.

#### 2. Prepare the Strawberry Filling
In a large mixing bowl, mix the strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Gently toss until the strawberries are well coated. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.

#### 3. Prepare the Crisp Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to blend the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

#### 4. Assemble and Bake
Distribute the crisp topping evenly over the strawberry filling. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the strawberry filling is bubbling around the edges.

#### 5. Cool and Serve
Let the crisp cool for at least 10–15 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and enhances flavor. Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

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### Suggestions and Variations

– **Use Frozen Strawberries**: If fresh strawberries are unavailable, you can use frozen ones. Just thaw and drain them before using to prevent excess moisture.
– **Incorporate Nuts**: Chopped pecans or almonds can be added to the topping for added crunch.
– **Make it Gluten-Free**: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.
– **Include Other Fruits**: Add rhubarb, blueberries, or raspberries for a twist on the traditional recipe.

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### Storing and Reheating

Keep any leftover strawberry crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.

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### Final Thoughts

A homemade strawberry crisp is a classic dessert that’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavor. With its juicy fruit base and crunchy topping, it achieves the perfect harmony between sweet and tart, soft and crisp. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a scoop of ice cream, this dessert is an enjoyable way to savor the best strawberries of the season.

So grab a basket of fresh berries and start baking—your taste buds will appreciate it!

Cheesy Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta: A One-Pan Tex-Mex Comfort Meal

For those longing for the vibrant, tangy tastes of chicken fajitas while enjoying the comfort and ease of a filling pasta dish, Cheesy Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta is the ideal answer. This one-pan marvel fuses the smoky seasonings of classic fajitas with creamy, cheesy pasta for a delicious meal that can be prepared in just 45 minutes. Perfect for hectic weeknights or relaxed gatherings, this recipe is both flexible and tasty.

What Makes This Recipe Irresistible

Cheesy Ground Chicken Fajita Pasta combines the finest elements of two cuisines—Tex-Mex and comforting Italian fare. It’s:

• Fast and straightforward: With merely 10 minutes of preparation and 35 minutes of cooking time, you can have dinner ready in under an hour.
• One-pan ease: Fewer dishes result in less cleanup, allowing more time to savor your meal.
• Adaptable: Change proteins, modify spice levels, or make it gluten-free to fit your preferences.
• Kid-approved: The creamy cheese, soft pasta, and colorful vegetables appeal to both children and adults.

Ingredient Details

This dish is brimming with nutritious ingredients and vibrant flavors:

• Ground chicken: Lean and packed with protein, it’s perfect for soaking up the fajita spices.
• Bell peppers and onions: Essential fajita veggies that contribute color, crispness, and sweetness.
• Garlic and taco seasoning: These create the flavorful base with a blend of smoky, spicy, and savory tastes.
• Chicken broth and diced tomatoes: Form a tasty cooking liquid that infuses the pasta during simmering.
• Pasta: Choose your preferred shape—penne, rotini, or gluten-free options all work wonderfully.
• Sour cream and cheese: These ingredients add creaminess and depth, turning the dish into a cheesy pleasure.
• Cilantro: A fresh, herbal touch that brightens the entire meal.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

1. Brown the meat: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken and cook for around 10 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns.
2. Sauté the veggies: Incorporate onion and bell peppers. Cook until soft, roughly 10 minutes.
3. Season: Add garlic and taco seasoning. Cook for 1 minute until aromatic.
4. Simmer the pasta: Mix in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and pasta. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 8–10 minutes until pasta is cooked through.
5. Add creaminess: Stir in sour cream and half of the shredded cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
6. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Cover and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until melted, or broil for a golden finish.

Optional Additions and Variations

This recipe is extremely flexible:

• Spice it up: Incorporate diced jalapeño or poblano peppers along with the bell peppers for an extra kick.
• Change the tomatoes: Replace diced tomatoes with 2 cups of your favorite salsa for a zestier flavor.
• Protein alternatives: Swap out ground turkey or beef for the chicken.
• Make it extra creamy: Opt for Greek yogurt or heavy cream instead of sour cream for a different texture.
• Enhance the presentation: Top with avocado, lime wedges, or a spoonful of guacamole for a special touch.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Each serving (calculated based on 4 servings total) provides:

• Calories: 614
• Fat: 40g (Saturated: 17g, Trans: 0.3g)

# Grits: A Southern Essential

Lush, smooth, and utterly delightful, grits are a Southern essential and one of my ultimate favorites. This comforting side harmonizes beautifully with everything from bacon and eggs to shrimp! Whether you savor them at breakfast, lunch, or dinner, grits are a flexible dish that can be tailored to fit any taste.

## What are Grits? – Grits vs. Polenta

Both grits and polenta are maize-based sides, yet they possess unique distinctions.

– **Grits** are generally produced from coarsely ground white or yellow corn, often utilizing hominy or stone-ground corn. The easiest method to prepare grits is by boiling them in water, but for a more robust flavor, you can cook them in broth or stock. For extra creaminess, think about using milk or a mix of milk and water. After cooking, grits are often blended with butter, but the possibilities are limitless!

– **Polenta**, conversely, is made from yellow ground corn and serves as the Italian equivalent of grits. It has a richer yellow hue and a different grind, while grits typically appear pale white. Polenta usually demands more time to prepare and requires more stirring to achieve a creamy, lump-free texture.

## Types of Grits

A variety of grits exist, each boasting its own distinct features:

– **Quick and Regular Grits**: These are the most popular varieties, with the endosperm removed to extend shelf life and shorten cooking time.

– **Hominy Grits**: Crafted from white corn that has undergone soaking, these grits offer a unique flavor and texture.

– **Stone Ground Grits**: Coarsely milled and preserving more nutrients, these grits take longer to cook (up to an hour) and may be less accessible.

– **Instant Grits**: These are pre-cooked and dehydrated, making them a quick and easy choice for a fast breakfast when prepared in the microwave with water or milk.

## Tasty Variations

Grits can be enhanced with an array of flavors. Here are a few tasty variations to explore:

– **Cheese Grits**: For a cheesy spin, mix in shredded cheddar cheese to the grits post-cooking, stirring continuously until it melts and becomes smooth.

– **Shrimp and Grits**: Cook shrimp separately and incorporate them into the finished grits. For a gourmet flair, toss in diced tomatoes and more cheese.

## What to Serve with Grits

Grits can be enjoyed in multiple ways according to the meal:

– **Breakfast**: Serve grits simply cooked with milk and butter, seasoned with salt and pepper. Finish with a fried egg and a dash of bacon bits for enhanced flavor, and accompany with a fresh biscuit.

– **As a Main Dish**: Grits can be accompanied by sautéed vegetables or a crisp salad tossed with a vibrant vinaigrette to refresh the palate.

## How to Prepare Grits

Preparing grits is uncomplicated and can be done in just a few steps:

1. **Heat milk, water, and salt to a simmer** over medium heat.
2. **Gradually add grits** while whisking to prevent lumps.
3. **Cook covered over medium-low heat**, stirring often (around 15 minutes for regular grits, 5 minutes for quick-cooking variants).
4. **Take off heat and mix in butter**. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

### Cooking Insights:
– For richer grits, consider stirring in sharp cheddar cheese before serving.
– You can swap milk with half-and-half, heavy cream, or broth for varying flavors.
– Adjust the thickness by incorporating more liquid for thinner grits or cooking longer for a thicker texture.

## Nutritional Information

Grits are not only tasty but also offer nutritional advantages. A standard serving has approximately:
– **Calories**: 253
– **Carbohydrates**: 35g
– **Protein**: 7g
– **Fat**: 10g
– **Fiber**: 2g

### Conclusion

Grits are a cherished Southern meal that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Whether you like them creamy and cheesy or topped with savory shrimp, grits are guaranteed to warm your soul and please your palate. So, the next time you’re seeking a comforting side or a fulfilling main dish, think about whipping up a batch of these wonderful corn-based treasures!

### About the Author: Holly Nilsson

Holly Nilsson is a passionate culinary innovator and the creative mind behind the well-loved food blog, Spend With Pennies. Driven by the goal of making cooking enjoyable and accessible to everyone, Holly focuses on developing simple, comforting recipes that resonate with busy households. Her method blends nostalgic flavors with straightforward techniques, making it possible for anyone to prepare wonderful meals without the usual pressures of cooking.

#### A Passion for Comfort Food

Holly’s enthusiasm for cooking is deeply connected to the concept of comfort food—meals that bring warmth, nostalgia, and a feeling of home. She holds the belief that food should nourish not just the body, but also foster connections among people. This conviction shines through in her recipes, often highlighting hearty ingredients and familiar tastes that recall beloved family gatherings.

#### Everyday Comfort: A Culinary Guide

Beyond her blog, Holly has authored “Everyday Comfort,” a cookbook that furthers her goal of motivating home cooks. This assortment of recipes aims to make cooking seem less intimidating and more enjoyable. Each recipe is meticulously selected to ensure it’s not only tasty but also attainable for those with hectic schedules. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned chef seeking fresh inspiration, Holly’s book has something to offer everyone.

#### Engaging with the Community

Holly’s influence goes beyond her recipes; she actively interacts with her community through various social media outlets. By providing tips, tricks, and behind-the-scenes looks at her cooking journey, she nurtures a sense of community among her followers. Whether it’s through delectable food photography on Instagram or engaging posts on Facebook, Holly motivates her audience to embrace their culinary adventures.

#### Connect with Holly

For those interested in discovering more of Holly’s culinary delights, her blog, Spend With Pennies, is a goldmine of recipes that appeal to a wide array of tastes and occasions. From quick weekday meals to decadent desserts, Holly’s recipes are crafted to seamlessly fit into daily life.

You can also connect with Holly on social media to keep up with her newest recipes and cooking advice:

– [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/spendpennies/)
– [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/ispendwithpennies/)
– [Twitter](http://spendpennies)
– [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/spendpennies/)

In summary, Holly Nilsson is more than just a recipe developer; she serves as a culinary mentor for those wishing to reinvigorate their kitchens with joy. With her user-friendly recipes and engaging persona, she continues to inspire home cooks to create heartwarming meals that everyone can enjoy.