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Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe

This creamy and refreshing tuna pasta salad is ideal for gatherings or meal prep and is sure to satisfy everyone's appetite. It combines flaky tuna, crisp vegetables, and a rich dressing, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.

tuna pasta salad in bowl with can of tuna in background

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

The full recipe with ingredients/instructions is available on the recipe card at the bottom of the post. Important tips/tricks are also included in the blog post.

It's no secret that I love pasta salad and enjoy it in any form. From my cold seafood salad to my Southern-style pasta salad, each recipe offers a unique twist that keeps me returning for more.

This tuna salad, also called tuna macaroni salad, is simple but with my twist on the classic recipe. Along with tuna, I opt for fresh green bell peppers and red onion to provide crunch to the salad. Most recipes I found call for fresh or frozen peas.

And now, the star of the show, the creamy dressing that brings all the flavors together. Made with a blend of mayo, yellow mustard, lemon juice, and spices, this delicious tuna pasta salad is the perfect finishing touch. 

Ingredients for Tuna Pasta Salad

  • Pasta - You can use any short pasta, but I prefer elbow macaroni. You could also use shells or bow-tie pasta. 
  • Tuna - I suggest tuna in water. 
  • Vegetables - Green bell pepper and red onion.
  • Pasta Salad Dressing - mayonnaise, lemon juice, yellow mustard, salt, pepper, sugar, black pepper, and relish.
  • Garnish - paprika
ingredients for tuna pasta salad on table

How to make Tuna Pasta Salad

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow noodles according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and rinse them under cold water to cool. Set them aside.

Combine the drained tuna, chopped red onion, diced green bell pepper, mayonnaise, dill relish, lemon juice, yellow mustard, granulated sugar, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Stir well to integrate the ingredients thoroughly.

tuna and dressing in bowl

Incorporate the cooled elbow noodles into the tuna mixture, tossing gently to coat the noodles evenly with the dressing and distribute the ingredients throughout.

tuna and macaroni in bowl before going in fridge

Refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to allow the flavors to blend.

Serve the salad chilled, garnished with paprika for added color and a subtle, smoky flavor.

tuna pasta salad in white bowl with tuna can in corner

Tanya's Top Tip

  • Don't skip the refrigeration. The flavor is this will get better as it sits and gets chilled. 

How to Make Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is ideal for preparing in advance since the flavors improve with refrigeration. You can prepare it up to three days before serving it.

Storage: Tuna pasta salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results, keep it in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent it from absorbing odors from the fridge.

I would not freeze pasta salad. The mayonnaise and fresh vegetables do not freeze and thaw well, which can lead to a watery and less appealing taste.

Variations

  • Switch up your tuna pasta salad by switching out the vegetables.
  • If you want a healthier tuna salad, you can change the dressing. For example, you could substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise in the recipe. 
  • Use fresh dill rather than dill relish. 

FAQ

How do I cook the pasta for tuna salad? (Cook according to package directions to al dente)

Cook according to package directions to al dente

What's the best way to cool the pasta for tuna salad?

Run under cold water or cook ahead and chill.

tuna pasta salad in white bowl with tuna can in corner
Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Tuna Pasta Salad

This creamy and refreshing tuna pasta salad is ideal for gatherings or meal prep and is sure to satisfy everyone's appetite. It combines flaky tuna, crisp vegetables, and a rich dressing, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Chill Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 25 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: tuna pasta salad
Servings: 8 people
Calories: 263kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces elbow noodles
  • 2 4 ounce cans of tuna drained
  • ½ cup diced red onion
  • ½ cup diced green bell pepper
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup dill relish
  • 2 Tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 Tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 teasooon white granulated sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Paprika for garnish

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow noodles according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and rinse them under cold water to cool. Set them aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, chopped red onion, diced green bell pepper, mayonnaise, dill relish, lemon juice, yellow mustard, and granulated sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well to integrate the ingredients fully.
  • Incorporate the cooled elbow noodles into the tuna mixture, tossing gently to coat the noodles evenly with the dressing and distribute the ingredients throughout.
  • Refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to allow the flavors to blend.
  • Serve the salad chilled, garnished with paprika for added color and a subtle, smoky flavor.

Notes

Don't skip the refrigeration. The flavor is this will get better as it sits and gets chilled. 

Nutrition

Calories: 263kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 10g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.04g | Cholesterol: 9mg | Sodium: 244mg | Potassium: 111mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 63IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 13mg | Iron: 1mg

 

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Creamy Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge Recipe

Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge is smooth, creamy, and comforting. A popular breakfast dish in Jamaica, this porridge is the perfect recipe to start the day. 

cornmeal porridge in bowl with spoon on side

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

The full recipe with ingredients/instructions is available on the recipe card at the bottom of the post. Important tips/tricks are also included in the blog post.

This porridge is the breakfast of champions! It's comforting and keeps you full and ready to tackle your day. I grew up eating it, and I'm happy my kids now love it, too. 

When prepared just right, cornmeal porridge is a unique blend of smoothness, sweetness, and spice. The traditional Jamaican flavors of allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg create a perfect harmony of tastes that you won't find in any other breakfast dish. 

I've made this version with a can of coconut milk, but you could also use dairy milk in its place, whichever you prefer. The only must-have ingredient for this recipe is fine cornmeal, which yields the smoothest and creamiest porridge. 

Be sure to try my green banana porridge, too.

How to make Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge

First, add 2 ½ cups water and one can of coconut milk to a four-qt heavy-bottomed pot. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. 

coconut milk and water boiling

Meanwhile, add 1 cup cornmeal and 1 ½ cup water to a large mixing cup and whisk until smooth. This is how to avoid getting lumps in your cornmeal porridge. Please do not skip this step. 

Once the liquid in the pot begins to boil gently, whisk in the cornmeal mixture and continue to whisk for about 1 minute, ensuring there are no lumps. Reduce heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid.

cornmeal and water in measuring cup with whisk sticking out
mixture being poured into pot

Cook over low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. When there are about 5 minutes left, stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.  

spiced being added to porridge

Remove from heat and stir in condensed milk to sweeten it.

condensed milk being puted into porridge

Serve and enjoy.

porridge with whisk stickign out

What is cornmeal?

Cornmeal is a meal ground from dried corn. Various grain sizes are available. For this recipe, ensure the label states "fine cornmeal" for the best results. 

Are cornmeal and cornflour the same?

Although they come from the same type of grain, they are not the same. Corn flour is ground until it takes on a powder form. You want to ensure you use "fine yellow cornmeal" for this recipe.  

What do you serve cornmeal porridge with?

Typically, I eat this by itself. A bowl really fills you up. You can serve it with fruit, breakfast meat like bacon, and eggs on the side if you wish. 

What does cornmeal porridge taste like?

Cornmeal porridge is smooth, creamy, and rich, similar to polenta. Polenta is usually savory. Porridge has a sweet, nutty flavor. People often season it with cinnamon and nutmeg.

Additional Notes

  • The condensed milk does add a delicious flavor to the porridge. If you prefer to keep the recipe dairy free, you can either leave out the condensed milk and use sugar to sweeten or use sweetened condensed coconut milk.
  • I used a can of coconut milk in this recipe but regular dairy milk can be used instead. In fact, I grew up eating it made with regular dairy milk and it's still delicious.
  • For thicker cornmeal porridge, reduce the liquid you add initially or simmer for longer. If your porridge gets too thick, whisk in more water or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
cornmeal porridge in bowl with spoon on side

Looking for other Jamaican breakfast recipes? Try these out:

cornmeal porridge in bowl with spoon on side
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4.71 from 34 votes

Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge Recipe

Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge is smooth, creamy, and comforting. A popular breakfast dish in Jamaica, this porridge is the perfect recipe to start the day.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Caribbean
Keyword: cornmeal porridge, jamaican cornmeal porridge
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 518kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • 4 cups water separated
  • 1 13.5 oz can coconut milk
  • 1 cup fine yellow cornmeal
  • 1 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon ground all-spice
  • ½ cup sweetened condensed milk or to taste

Instructions

  • Add 2 ½ cups water, 1 can coconut milk to a 4 QT heavy bottomed pot. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  • Meanwhile, add 1 cup cornmeal and 1 ½ cup water to a large mixing cup and whisk until smooth.
  • Once the pot begins to boil, whisk in cornmeal mixture and continue to whisk for about 1 minute, ensuring there are no lumps. Reduce heat to low and cover with a tight fitting lid.
  • Cook over low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. When there is about 5 minutes left, stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and all-spice. Remove from heat and sweeten with condensed milk.
  • Serve and enjoy.

Notes

  • The condensed milk does add a delicious flavor to the porridge. If you prefer to keep the recipe dairy-free, you can either leave out the condensed milk and use sugar to sweeten or use sweetened condensed coconut milk.
  • I used a can of coconut milk in this recipe but regular dairy milk can be used instead.

Nutrition

Calories: 518kcal | Carbohydrates: 56g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 24g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 13mg | Sodium: 78mg | Potassium: 546mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 25g | Vitamin A: 104IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 139mg | Iron: 3mg

This post was originally published on August 17, 2021. It has been updated with new and helpful information.

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Hennessy Margarita: A Twist on the Classic

This Hennessy Margarita recipe is a game-changer for cocktail enthusiasts looking for a sophisticated twist on a classic. Its unique blend of smooth cognac and zesty lime provides a luxurious sip for unwinding after a long day or spicing up your weekend gatherings. This post is meant for an audience 21 and over.

Hennessy Margarita on coaster with Hennessy bottle in background

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

The full recipe with ingredients/instructions is available on the recipe card at the bottom of the post. Important tips/tricks are also included in the blog post.

I love spins on classic cocktails, and this one is perfect for the summertime weather. A classic margarita is one of my favorite summertime drinks, but I also like an excellent cognac. Once combined, you develop a cognac margarita, aka Henny margarita, aka Henny-rita. 

This cocktail is like a typical margarita, but I subbed some of the tequila for Hennessy. The only difference is that I opted to leave out any sweetener, which I tend to add to a classic margarita. With the Hennessy, simple syrup isn't needed. But if you like your cocktails on the sweet side, feel free to add a bit of sweetener. 

If you like margaritas, you'll want to try my Tamarind Margarita too.

Ingredients You Will Need

  • Cognac - I use Hennessy Cognac, a high-quality Brandy type. 
  • Blanco Tequila - A staple for margaritas.
  • Cointreau - A liqueur that adds a touch of citrus and sweetness.
  • Fresh lime juice - To bring the necessary acidity and brightness.
  • Ice - used to shake the cocktail and to serve the margarita on the rocks. 
  • Tajin or salt- For rimming the glass (optional).
  • Lime wheel- For garnish.

Bar Tools You Will Need

  • Cocktail shaker
  • Jigger
  • Strainer
  • Rocks Glass
hennessy margarita in glass with lime wedge on it

How to make a Hennessy Margarita

If you like a salted rim, start by running a lime wedge around the rim of your glass and then dip it into the salt. If you like a little extra flavor, use tajin instead of salt. Set the glass aside.

Combine the Hennessy, Tequila, Cointreau, and fresh lime juice in a shaker. Fill the shaker with ice.

Shake the mixture vigorously until well chilled, about 10-15 seconds.

Strain the cocktail into your prepared glass filled with fresh ice.

Garnish with a lime wheel.

Hennessy Margarita Rim Options

  • Tajin
  • Sugar
  • Salt
close up photo of the hennessy margarita recipe from above

Flavor Variations

  • The balance of components in a Hennessy Margarita can be adjusted to suit your taste, with a typical formulation being 1 part Hennessy, 1 part Blanco tequila, 1 part lime juice, and 1 part orange liqueur. 
  • This cocktail is usually presented in a glass with a salted rim and adorned with a slice of lime. I used Tajin for salting the rim.
  • For the triple sec, I opt for Cointreau, though Grand Marnier or any triple sec of your choice works well.
  • This version incorporates fresh lime juice, but you can use lime juice concentrate if you have it on hand. 

Expert Tips

These suggestions will ensure your Hennessy Margarita is a standout.

  • No Shaker, No Problem: If you don't have a cocktail shaker, simply mix all ingredients in a glass brimming with ice and stir thoroughly until blended.
  • Serving Freshness: Ideally, this cocktail should be enjoyed immediately after mixing. However, you can also prepare it in advance and store it chilled in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just add ice and stir well before serving.
  • Ice Timing: Only introduce ice when you're ready to serve to avoid dilution from melting.
  • Batch Mixing: Catering to a crowd? Scale up the recipe and mix everything in a large pitcher instead of individual shakes. Do not add the ice. When ready to serve, pour the margaritas over ice. 

I hope you enjoy this Hennessy Margarita recipe as much as we do. If you like Hennessy cocktails, check out my Hennessy Sidecar recipe. 

If you make this cocktail recipe, please let us know how you like it by leaving a review below. Your feedback is appreciated!

Hennessy Margarita on coaster with Hennessy bottle in background
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5 from 1 vote

Hennessy Margarita

This Hennessy Margarita recipe is a game-changer for cocktail enthusiasts looking for a sophisticated twist on a classic. Its unique blend of smooth cognac and zesty lime provides a luxurious sip for unwinding after a long day or spicing up your weekend gatherings.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time0 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: Cocktails
Cuisine: American
Keyword: hennessy margarita
Servings: 1
Calories: 225kcal
Author: Tanya

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 ounce Hennessy cognac or other high quality Cognac
  • 1 ounce blanco tequila
  • 1 ounce orange liqueur such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier
  • 1 ounce fresh lime juice
  • Ice For shaking and serving.
  • Tajin or salt For rimming the glass
  • Lime wheel For garnish.

Instructions

  • If you like a salted rim, start by running a lime wedge around the rim of your glass and then dip it into salt. Set the glass aside.
  • Combine the Hennessy Cognac, Tequila, orange liqueur, and fresh lime juice in a shaker. Fill the shaker with ice.
  • Shake the mixture vigorously until well chilled, about 10-15 seconds.
  • Strain the cocktail into your prepared glass filled with fresh ice.
  • Garnish with a lime wheel.

Notes

You can adjust the ingredients in a Hennessy Margarita to your liking. A common recipe includes equal parts Hennessy, Blanco tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur.

Nutrition

Calories: 225kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.03g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 3mg | Potassium: 43mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 14IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 0.1mg

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The Perfect Lavender Martini Recipe

This Lavender Martini elegantly marries the botanical complexity of gin with the delicate, floral notes of lavender. With just 3 ingredients, this is the perfect twist on the classic martini. This post is meant for an audience of 21 and over.

lavender martini in glass with sugar rim

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

The full recipe with ingredients/instructions is available on the recipe card at the bottom of the post. Important tips/tricks are also included in the blog post.

Spring gets me loving a few ingredients, lavender and lemon being my favorite two. I love making simple syrups, and I add my lavender syrup to many drinks and cocktails. This lavender martini contains few ingredients, just gin, lavender syrup, and lemon juice.

Gin is the basic ingredient in a classic martini, while lavender and lemon are the perfect flavor combo.

If you like martinis, try my bourbon martini recipe or watermelon martini.

Ingredients for Lavender Martini

  • Gin: A juniper-flavored spirit with a botanical profile, serving as the cocktail's base.
  • Lavender Syrup: Sweet and floral, adding a soothing lavender essence.
  • Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice works wonderfully in this drink. You could also use the stuff in a bottle if preferred.

How to make a Lavender Martini

In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, lavender syrup, and lemon juice.

Put ice in the shaker, close lid, and shake for 10-15 seconds to mix and cool ingredients.

Strain the mixture into a martini glass, ensuring no ice pieces escape.

Garnish with a lemon twist or a lavender sprig and enjoy.

lavender martini in glass at upward angle

How to make Homemade Lavender Syrup

I make my own lavender simple syrup to add to this cocktail. In a saucepan, add ½ cup white granulated sugar, ½ cup water, and 1 Tablespoon culinary lavender buds. Simmer over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes. Cool the syrup to room temperature before straining and using it in the cocktail.

lavender simple syrup in a glass bowl

Expert Tips

These tips will help you make the best Lavender Martini recipe you’ve ever tried. 

  • If you don't have a shaker, just mix all the ingredients in a glass with ice and stir until well mixed.
  • This drink is best when served immediately. However, you can also prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, add the ice and stir well.
  • Don’t add the ice cubes until you are ready to serve; otherwise, you risk them melting and diluting the cocktail.
  • Serving more people, no problem. Increase the recipe and prepare in a large jug rather than a cocktail shaker.
lavender martini in glass in front of lavender plant

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried lavender instead of lavender syrup?

While dried lavender can infuse gin with floral notes, it's more potent and can easily overpower. Lavender syrup provides a more balanced sweetness and flavor.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of this martini?

Absolutely! Replace the gin with a non-alcoholic spirit or seedlip and use non-alcoholic lavender syrup for a delightful mocktail version.

How can I make my own lavender syrup?

Simmer equal parts water and sugar with a handful of culinary-grade lavender buds. Strain after cooling for a clear, fragrant syrup.

I hope you like this drink recipe as much as we do. If you’re looking for more martini recipes, try these out:

If you tried a recipe from my blog, please leave a rating and comment on how it turned out. Your feedback is appreciated!

lavender martini in glass with sugar rim
Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Lavender Martini Recipe

This Lavender Martini elegantly marries the botanical complexity of gin with the delicate, floral notes of lavender. With just 3 ingredients, this is the perfect twist on the classic martini. This post is meant for an audience of 21 and over.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time0 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: Cocktails
Cuisine: American
Keyword: lavender martini
Servings: 1 person
Calories: 210kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces gin
  • 1 ounce lavender syrup
  • ½ ounce lemon juice

Instructions

  • In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, lavender syrup, and lemon juice.
  • Put ice in the cocktail shaker, close lid, and shake for 10-15 seconds to mix the ingredients..
  • Strain the mixture into a martini glass, ensuring no ice pieces escape.
  • Garnish with a lemon twist or a lavender sprig, and enjoy.

Notes

  • If you're not a fan of gin, feel free to substitute the gin with vodka. 
  • Fresh lemon juice works wonderfully in this drink. You could also use the stuff in a bottle if preferred.

Nutrition

Calories: 210kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 0.03g | Saturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 8mg | Potassium: 24mg | Fiber: 0.04g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 1IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 3mg | Iron: 0.04mg

by 4 Comments

Turkey Meatloaf Recipe

This turkey meatloaf is juicy, moist, flavorful, and easy to make. This classic comfort food contains ground turkey and lots of vegetables. It will make you feel like a kitchen pro.

turkey meatloaf sliced on a platter

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

The full recipe with ingredients/instructions is available on the recipe card at the bottom of the post. Important tips/tricks are also included in the blog post.

Meatloaf is one of those recipes that never gets boring. It's super delicious and there are endless ways to flavor it. You can keep it classic, like my Southern meatloaf recipe, or you can get creative, like swapping the ketchup glaze for a tangy barbecue sauce. 

I love finding ways to use ground turkey, and this recipe is one of my favorite ways to use it. For this recipe, I make ground turkey meat the star and add onions, mushrooms, and carrots to ensure the meatloaf is nice and juicy. 

Ground turkey gets a bad wrap for coming out dry, but it stays nice and moist when you add veggies to it.

If you're a fan of ground turkey, try my air fryer turkey burgers or my turkey tacos.

Ingredients for Turkey Meatloaf

  • Ground Turkey Meat forms the meatloaf's foundation, offering structure and protein.
  • Soft breadcrumbs, eggs, and chicken broth bind the mixture and enhance texture.
  • Aromatics and Vegetables - Includes yellow onion, mushrooms, and carrots.
  • Butter adds richness and softens the vegetables.
  • A mix of chopped parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, celery salt, and garlic powder enhances the flavor.
  • Glaze - Combining ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper creates a flavorful topping.
ingredients for turkey meatloaf on table

How to make Turkey Meatloaf with Ground Turkey

This meatloaf recipe consists of two main steps: preparing the meatloaf and applying the glaze.

Prepare the Meatloaf:

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with foil. Start with the breadcrumbs by placing them in a small bowl and moistening them with chicken broth. Allow them to soak until they've absorbed most of the liquid, about 5-10 minutes.

In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the chopped onion, mushrooms, and carrot until soft and lightly browned, approximately 5-7 minutes.

sauteed vegetables in skillet

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey with the soaked breadcrumbs. Add the sautéed vegetables, beaten eggs, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, celery salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture gently to combine thoroughly. 

Shape the mixture into a loaf, pack it tight, and place on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes before you add the glaze.

raw ground turkey with seasonings in bowl
formed turkey into meatloaf before baking

Prepare the Glaze:

While the meatloaf bakes, in a small bowl, prepare the glaze by combining ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper.

After the initial 40 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven, evenly spread the glaze over the top, and return it to the oven for another 20 minutes of baking. Your meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).

Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to make ahead and how to store

Assemble the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf a day before you cook it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. 

Alternatively, you can thoroughly cook the meatloaf, allow it to cool, and refrigerate. You can refrigerate the cooked meatloaf for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

turkey meatloaf when done cooking on platter

How to Reheat Meatloaf

When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to moisten the meatloaf. Cover with foil and heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave for quick serving.

To reheat meatloaf in the microwave, cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat it in 30-second intervals until it is heated all the way through.

Meatloaf Variations

  1. Add other vegetables, like shredded zucchini or chopped bell peppers.
  2. Add other seasonings, like ranch seasoning, BBQ seasoning, or jerk seasoning, for a different flavor profile.
  3. Form these into smaller turkey meatballs and bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked.

Ideas for Meatloaf Leftovers

You can use your leftover meatloaf as a part of new dishes, like meatloaf sandwiches, add it to soup, or serve it over hashed potatoes.

sliced turkey meatloaf on plate

Recipe Notes

  • Use 85/15 ground turkey for this recipe for best results.
  • You will notice a low of liquid around the meatloaf as it bakes. Do not stress; your meatloaf will still be juicy and hold together.

FAQS

Can I substitute turkey for beef in any meatloaf recipe?

Yes, you can generally substitute ground turkey in most meatloaf recipes, but you may need to adjust the seasonings and add moistening ingredients due to turkey's lower fat content.

What are the best sides to serve with turkey meatloaf?

Classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad pair well with turkey meatloaf.

I hope you like this turkey meatloaf recipe as much as we do. Please leave a comment below if you make this recipe, your feedback means a lot.

turkey meatloaf sliced on a platter
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5 from 3 votes

Turkey Meatloaf Recipe

This turkey meatloaf is juicy, moist, flavorful, and easy to make. This classic comfort food contains ground turkey and lots of vegetables. It will make you feel like a kitchen pro.
Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 25 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: turkey meatloaf
Servings: 8 people
Calories: 318kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

Turkey

  • 2 pounds ground turkey meat
  • 1 cup soft breadcrumbs or ½ cup dried breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 ½ cup chopped yellow onion
  • ½ cup chopped mushrooms
  • ½ cup grated carrot
  • 2 large eggs lightly beaten
  • ⅓ cup chopped parsley
  • 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon celery salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Glaze

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with foil paper.
  • Place the breadcrumbs in a small bowl. Pour the chicken broth over the breadcrumbs and allow them to soak until most of the liquid is absorbed, about 5-10 minutes.
  • Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, mushrooms, and carrots. Sauté until they are soft and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  • In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, soaked breadcrumbs, sautéed vegetables, beaten eggs, chopped parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, celery salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together gently.
  • Transfer the mixture to the lined sheet pan, shaping it evenly into a loaf.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes.
  • Make the glaze while the meatloaf is baking by combining ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper in a small bowl. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully mixed.
  • Remove the meatloaf from the oven after 40 minutes. Spread the glaze evenly over the top.
  • Return the meatloaf to the oven and continue baking for 20 minutes, until the meatloaf’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Remove from oven and allow the meatloaf to cool 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use 85/15 ground turkey for this recipe for best results.
  • You will notice a low of liquid around the meatloaf as it bakes. Do not stress; your meatloaf will still be juicy and hold together.

Nutrition

Calories: 318kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 133mg | Sodium: 1013mg | Potassium: 493mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 1858IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 79mg | Iron: 3mg

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Crispy Air Fryer Chickpeas (4 Different Flavors)

This quick and easy Crispy Air Fryer Chickpeas recipe is perfect when craving a delicious snack. You can season with salt and pepper or any of these four flavor combinations.

chickpeas in air fryer basket

This post may contain affiliate links, please read my full disclosure here.

Full Recipe/Instructions are available in the
recipe card at the bottom of the post.
You can find important tips/tricks in the
blog post.

I use my Air Fryer quite often. It’s not only for fries, wings, and steak…I also make delicious, quick, and easy snacks. I enjoy using the air fryer for quick snacks with frozen foods.

My favorite snack is chickpeas. I like grabbing a chickpea can and putting it in the air fryer. I roast them, and in less than 20 minutes, I have a delicious snack. They're also great as a salad topper.

I’ve been roasting chickpeas for a while. They’re healthy for you, high in fiber, and are tasty and much less expensive than other snacks you can purchase.

I used to roast them in my oven but found that roasting chickpeas in the oven gave inconsistent results. I can’t stand grabbing one chickpea that is super crispy while the next is a soft, wet mess. The Air Fryer made every single chickpea crispy.

air fryer chickpeas in glass bowls close up

Ingredients Needed

  • A can of chickpeas
  • Oil to spray on chickpeas
  • Seasonings

How to make Crispy Air Fryer Chickpeas

First, open and drain a 15.5-oz can of garbanzo beans. Garbanzo beans and chickpeas are the same. I don’t bother rinsing them, but you can do it if you like; make sure to drain them in a colander.

chickpeas drained in a pink colander

Next, add the drained chickpeas to the air fryer basket, spreading them out across the bottom.

This is how we’ll dry the chickpeas before we add oil.

drained chickpeas in air fryer basket

Close the air fryer basket and set the temperature to 390 degrees Fahrenheit. Set the timer for 17 minutes. After 5 minutes, open the air fryer basket. At this point, your chickpeas should be dry and ready for you to spray them with oil.

I fill my spray bottle with oil for my air fryer cooking.

dried chickpeas in air fryer basket

After spraying the chickpeas with oil, I close the air fryer basket. Then, I continue the cooking cycle and shake the basket every 5 minutes.

When there are about 2 minutes left, I add half of my seasoning combination. This allows the chickpeas to roast without the seasonings burning or falling off.

seasoned chickpeas in bowls

Continue to cook for the last 2 minutes, and then remove the chickpeas. If you need a little crispier, put them in for a few more minutes. I found that the 17-minute total cooking time was perfect for the chickpeas in my Phillips Air Fryer.

After cooking the chickpeas, place them in a large bowl and pour the remaining seasoning on them. Stir to coat the seasoning on all the chickpeas. Allow them to cool and enjoy.

How to enjoy your chickpeas

These chickpeas can be enjoyed individually as a snack or used in your favorite recipes. Try them on top of a salad in place of croutons.

The Best Oil to Use

For crunchy chickpeas, it's best to use a light oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil, which coats well without weighing down the chickpeas or burning them at high temperatures.

Seasoning Options

I suggest you use your favorite seasoning choice. I've included a few in the recipe card below.

Tanya's Notes on Air Fryer chickpeas

  • The best results were obtained by drying the chickpeas in the Air Fryer before adding the oil. They should be dry after 5 minutes.
  • How long it takes to cook the chickpeas will depend on the Air Fryer brand and size. I suggest checking the doneness of your chickpeas after 15 minutes.
  • Add half of the seasoning before the last 2 minutes of air frying and the remainder when the chickpeas are done. I noticed that when I added seasoning too early, it would fall off the chickpeas or taste burnt.
  • If you want to make these ahead or have leftover chickpeas, you can store them in a paper bag for a couple of days. I found that storing them in a paper bag was the best way to keep them crispy.
  • Have fun with the seasonings! The possibilities are endless.
  • The chickpeas may pop in the air fryer. This is normal, just be careful when removing them from the air fryer.
  • You do not need to remove the skin from the chickpeas.
Hand picking up air fryer chickpeas

I hope you enjoy this healthy snack of roasted chickpeas!

If you're looking for more Air Fryer recipes, try these out:

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites

Breaded Potato Wedges

Air Fryer Apple Chips

Easy Air Fryer Recipes for Beginners

Air Fryer Granola

Pin Air Fryer Chickpeas for Later

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chickpeas in air fryer basket
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4.76 from 90 votes

Crispy Air Fryer Chickpeas

This quick and easy Crispy Air Fryer Chickpea recipe is perfect for when you are craving a delicious snack. You can season with salt and pepper or any of the 4 flavor combinations that's provided. 
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time17 minutes
Total Time22 minutes
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: air fryer chickpeas
Servings: 3 people
Calories: 126kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • 15.5 oz can Garbanzo beans drained
  • Oil for spraying

Seasonings

Cinnamon Sugar

  • 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon Cinnamon

Ranch

  • 1 Tablespoon ranch dressing packet

Chili Lime

BBQ

Instructions

  • Place chickpeas in Air Fryer basket. Set temperature to 390 degrees Fahrenheit and timer to 17 minutes. After 5 minutes, open basket and spray chickpeas with oil and shake basket. Close and continue air frying, shaking about every 5 minutes.
  • With about 2 minutes left, open air fryer basket and sprinkle half of the seasoning on the chickpeas. Close and continue air frying for the remaining 2 minutes. Once chickpeas are done, remove and place in a bowl. Sprinkle remainder of the seasoning on the chickpeas and stir to combine. Serve and enjoy.

Video

Notes

Suggested Tools for Air fryer Chickpeas

I recommend spraying with an oil with a high smoke point. Avocado, olive oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil all work fine.
*Calorie information provided does not include seasonings. 

Nutrition

Calories: 126kcal

This post was originally published on February 19, 2019. It has been updated with additional helpful information.

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Flaky Air Fryer Donuts a.k.a Cronuts

These puff pastry air fryer donuts are wonderfully flaky and delicious! They are so quick and easy to make in the air fryer and require just five ingredients. Be warned, they are going to disappear quickly!

Four air fryer donuts on a white plate

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

The full recipe with ingredients/instructions is available on the recipe card at the bottom of the post. Important tips/tricks are also included in the blog post.

There is nothing quite like homemade donuts, but these are truly out of the world! Made with puff pastry, they are so wonderfully fluffy and flaky, and because they are cooked in the air fryer, they don't require any oil.

Rolled in cinnamon sugar, these flaky donuts are even more amazing when topped with my blueberry compote and whipped cream. You could also add a glaze. Depending on the day, we rotate through all kinds of toppings.

Ingredients You Will Need

  • Puff Pastry Sheets
  • Egg
  • Melted Butter
  • White Sugar
  • Cinnamon
Ingredients to make the donuts

How To Make Flaky Air Fryer Donuts

Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured countertop and brush egg on one side of each pastry.

Egg being brushed on the puff pastry sheets

Lay the sheets of puff pastry on top of each other, making sure the sides brushed with egg are together.

Place in the freezer for 15 minutes. This step will make your donuts rise high while they cook.

The puff pastry sheets on top of each other

After 15 minutes, remove the pastry from the freezer and use a donut cutter, or two cookie cutters to cut out donut shapes. I left some donuts without holes. There is no particular reason; I just like variety.

Cutting donut shapes in the dough with 2 different sized cookie cutters

Then, place in an air fryer basket and cook at 330 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes until the pastry has risen and is browned a bit.

The pastry in the air fryer basket
The cooked donuts in the air fryer basket
  • While the pastry is cooking, combine white sugar and cinnamon in a bowl and set aside.
  • Once the pastry is finished cooking, brush it with melted butter and dip it in the cinnamon and sugar mixture.
An air fryer donut cut in half

Why make donuts with puff pastry?

Puff pastry is known to "puff up" into beautiful flakey layers. Store-bought pastry does a great job making these flaky cronuts with minimum work and prep. You could also use other dough, such as store-bought biscuit dough, but I found those to be a little saltier than puff pastry dough.

Can you make them ahead of time?

I like to serve these while they are still warm so that the texture is at its best. The cooled donuts can be kept in an airtight container for about two or three days.
You can cut out the donut shapes and keep them covered in the fridge on a baking tray for up to 24 hours until ready to air fry them.

Why make donuts in an air fryer?

My air fryer has become a kitchen staple, and I'm thrilled with its versatility. These donuts are a perfect example of its capabilities. The results are truly amazing!

Air fryer donuts with compote and cream

Recipe Notes and Tips

  • Be sure to freeze the pastry together for at least 15 minutes. Only cut the donut shapes after freezing the pastry.
  • A large air fryer can hold about six donuts at a time. If using a smaller one, place the remaining cut donuts in the refrigerator or freezer to remain cold while the donuts are air-fried. The dough needs to be cold to rise properly in the air fryer.
  • Preheat the air fryer for the most flakey donuts.
  • The donuts should be placed in a single layer in the basket and not touching.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

Watch this video tutorial and see how I make flaky air fryer donuts from start to finish.

air frter donuts on a plate
Print Recipe
5 from 5 votes

Flaky Air Fryer Donuts

These puff pastry air fryer donuts are wonderfully flaky and delicious! They are so quick and easy to make in the air fryer and require just 5 ingredients. Be warned, they are going to disappear quickly!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Freezing Time15 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: air fryer donuts, flakey donuts, puff pastry donuts
Servings: 9 donuts and 9 donut holes
Calories: 396kcal
Author: Tanya

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 puff pastry sheets defrosted
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • ½ cup granulated white sugar
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  • Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured countertop and brush egg on one side of each pastry.
  • Lay the pieces of puff pastry on top of each other, making sure the sides brushed with egg are touching each other. Place in the freezer for 15 minutes.
  • After 15 minutes, remove pastry from the freezer and use a donut cutter or two cookie cutters to cut out donut shapes.
  • Place in air fryer basket and cook on 330 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes, until the pastry has risen and is browned a bit.
  • While the pastry is cooking, combine white sugar and cinnamon in a bowl and set aside.
  • Once the pastry is finished cooking, brush with melted butter and dip in cinnamon and sugar mixture.
  • Serve and enjoy.

Video

Notes

  • Be sure to freeze the pastry together for at least 15 minutes.
  • A large air fryer will be able to hold about 6 donuts at a time. Place remaining cut donuts in the refrigerator or freezer so they remain cold while the donuts are air frying.
  • Preheat the air fryer for the most flakey donuts.
  • The donuts should be placed in a single layer in the basket and not touching.

Nutrition

Calories: 396kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 32mg | Sodium: 188mg | Potassium: 40mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 184IU | Calcium: 11mg | Iron: 1mg

This recipe was originally published on May 8, 2020. It has been updated with additional helpful information.

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Creamy Yellow Squash Soup

Simple and easy to make, this delicious yellow squash soup is the perfect way to make the most of the season's produce. Ready to serve in around 30 minutes, it's perfect to serve for lunch or a sit-down appetizer.

Yellow squash soup served in two white bowls.

The full recipe with ingredients/instructions is available on the recipe card at the bottom of the post. Important tips/tricks are also included in the blog post.

Summer squash is starting to appear in stores, and this delicious recipe will help you make the most of them. I make this recipe every time I see yellow squash appearing in the stores, and it's such a great way to use the vegetable.

This simple soup is light and fresh-tasting, seasoned with garlic, nutmeg, and thyme. It's all made in one pot and ready to enjoy in around 30 minutes.

Made with natural and healthy ingredients, this soup is easy to make, vegetarian or vegan, and it's a tasty way to get some veggies into your family's diet!

Be sure to try my Roasted Tomato Basil Soup and sauteéd yellow squash, too!

What Readers Say

I made this soup and it was just lovely. Thank you so much for this taste of summer.

Denise

A Quick Look at the Ingredients Needed for this Recipe

Ingredient amounts and full recipe instructions are on the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.

  • For sautéing: unsalted butter, sweet onion, garlic cloves
  • For the soup base: yellow squash, dried thyme, ground nutmeg, kosher salt, chicken broth (or vegetable broth as an alternative)
  • For finishing: heavy cream, pepper (optional)
Ingredients to make the soup.

Tools Needed

  • Dutch oven or large pot
  • Blender (stand or immersion)
  • Cutting board & chef’s knife
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Ladle

How to Make Yellow Squash Soup

Step 1: Gather your ingredients.

Step 2: Melt butter in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and sauté for 5 minutes, or until the onions soften.

Sautéing the onions on a pan.

Step 3: Add squash, thyme, nutmeg, and salt. Stir, then continue to cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Cooking the squash and spices in a pan.

Step 4: Add the broth, increase the heat to medium-high, and bring the mixture to a boil. Allow the mixture to boil for about 10 minutes, or until the squash is tender and softened.

Broth added to the soup.

Step 5: Remove the mixture from the heat and add it to a blender. Blend until smooth.

The soup blended smooth in a stand blender.

Step 6: Add in heavy cream, salt and pepper to taste.

yelloq squash soup in pot

Step 7: Serve and enjoy.

How long does it keep?

This soup is excellent for meal prep throughout the week, so feel free to make a bigger batch! Once cooled, transfer the soup to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for 4 to 5 days.

Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. Alternatively, you can heat it through in the microwave for about 3 minutes, stirring halfway.

Can you freeze it?

Yellow squash soup is a great freezer meal and will keep well for up to 3 months. Place the cooled soup into a container or divide it into individual portions in ziplock bags. Thaw the soup in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Serving

This soup is perfect for a light lunch or sit-down appetizer before a main meal. Drizzle each bowl with cream, top with freshly baked croutons, and garnish with a few fresh thyme leaves, and you're good to go. For a fuller meal, serve it with cornbread muffins or crusty bread.

yellow squash soup in white bowl with thyme leaves on top

Recipe Variations

This yellow squash soup is delicious, but you can make a few easy swaps to suit your tastes.

  • Make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
  • Make it vegan by using a plant-based cream.
  • Use other herbs, such as parsley or rosemary.
  • Carrots would be a great choice if you want to add some extra veggies!

Tanya's Recipe Notes and Tips

  • Please be careful when blending hot soups. Ensure your blender can handle them, and don’t fill it more than halfway.
  • An immersion blender can also be used. However, a standing blender makes the soups a little creamier.
  • Make the soup in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. These pots distribute the heat evenly.
  • You do not need to peel the squash for this recipe.
Yellow squash soup served in a white bowl with croutons.

More Soup Recipes

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yellow squash soup in bowl with yellow squash in back
Print Recipe
4.82 from 22 votes

Yellow Squash Soup

Simple and easy to make, this delicious yellow squash soup is the perfect way to make the most of the seasons produce. Ready to serve in around 30 minutes, it's perfect to serve for lunch or a sit down appetizer.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Keyword: easy squash soup recipe, How to make squash soup, yellow squash recipes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 148kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • 3 Tablespoon unsalted butter
  • ½ cup chopped sweet onion
  • 2 garlic cloves chopped
  • 4 medium yellow squash ends removed and chopped
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
  • 2 cups chicken broth vegetable broth
  • 2 Tablespoon heavy cream
  • Pepper to taste optional

Instructions

  • Melt butter in a large heavy bottomed pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic and sauté for 5 minutes, or until the onions have softened.
  • Add squash, thyme, nutmeg and salt and stir and continue to cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Add broth and increase the heat to medium high and bring mixture to a boil. Allow mixture to boil for about 10 minutes, until squash is softened.
  • Remove from heat and add contents to a blender. Blend until smooth.
  • Add in heavy cream. (Salt and pepper to taste)
  • Serve and enjoy.

Notes

Please be careful when blending hot soups. Ensure your blender is capable of blending hot soups and don’t fill the blender more than halfway.
An immersion blender can also be used. I find the soups to be a little more creamy when a standing blender is used.
Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth if you prefer.

Nutrition

Calories: 148kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 33mg | Sodium: 585mg | Potassium: 647mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 772IU | Vitamin C: 43mg | Calcium: 53mg | Iron: 1mg

This post was originally published on April 30, 2021. It has been updated with new photos and additional helpful information.

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Lavender Simple Syrup Recipe (Homemade)

Lavender simple syrup is a wonderfully aromatic addition to cocktails, mocktails, and desserts. This easy homemade recipe will show you how to make this floral-infused sweetener in no time!

lavender simple syrup ina bottle

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

The full recipe with ingredients/instructions is available on the recipe card at the bottom of the post. Important tips/tricks are also included in the blog post.

Whenever I think of Spring, lavender is one of those aromas and tastes that reminds me of the Season. The floral notes in lavender are perfect for drinks and desserts. I knew I needed to have a lavender syrup recipe on hand to avoid buying the bottled stuff. The bottled stuff is fine, but I became hooked once I learned how to make it from scratch. 

This recipe uses dried lavender leaves instead of fresh ones because I can't find fresh lavender in my neighborhood. Just make sure you buy food-grade lavender when buying it.  

Ingredients Needed

  • Simple Syrup Recipe - Water and granulated sugar in equal amounts. 
  • Dried Lavender Leaves - Make sure to purchase food-grade lavender. 
  • Blueberries - This ingredient is optional, but it does give me syrup some color. It does not make the syrup taste like blueberries. 
ingredients for the lavender syrup recipe on a white background. sugar, water, dried lavender leaves, and blueberries

Tools Needed

  • A small pot
  • Whisk
  • Fine mesh strainer

How to make Lavender Simple Syrup

Combine the water, sugar, lavender, and blueberries (if using) in a medium saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar fully dissolves into the water. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

lavender simple syrup ingredients in saucepan before simmering

Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes.

After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the syrup to cool to room temperature. The lavender will continue to infuse as it cools, deepening the flavor.

lavender simple syrup in put after simmering

Once cooled, strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the lavender flowers.

lavendersyrup being strained into cup

Tanya's Top Tip

When making lavender syrup, don't boil the water. This keeps the floral flavor intact. A low simmer ensures the lavender infuses its flavor optimally into the syrup.

How to use Lavender Syrup

  • Make lavender-flavored cocktails like lavender martini, mojito, or lemonade for a refreshing and floral twist on classic drinks. Don't forget about mocktails - a splash adds a touch of elegance to non-alcoholic drinks.
  • I love adding a Tablespoon to my morning coffee or make a lavender latte. 
  • Elevate your desserts with lavender syrup over ice cream, panna cotta, or meringues. For a more subtle touch, replace some of the sugar in frostings or glazes with lavender syrup.
syrup in a glass bowl

How to Store

Store lavender syrup in a clean, airtight bottle or jar. Glass is preferable as it won’t retain flavors and is easy to sterilize. Keep your lavender syrup in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it should last several weeks.

FAQs

Can lavender simple syrup be made sugar-free?

Yes, you can make a sugar-free version by using sugar substitutes like stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit sweetener. The process remains the same, but the taste and texture might vary slightly from the traditional sugar-based syrup.

How do I adjust the strength of the lavender flavor?

The strength of the lavender flavor can be adjusted by varying the amount of lavender used or the steeping time. For a stronger flavor, add more lavender or steep it longer; for a milder flavor, do the opposite.

I hope you like this recipe as much as we do. If you're looking for more simple syrup recipes, try these out:

If you tried a recipe from my blog, please leave a rating and comment on how it turned out. Your feedback is appreciated!

lavender simple syrup ina bottle
Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Lavender Simple Syrup Recipe

Lavender simple syrup is a wonderfully aromatic addition to cocktails, mocktails, and desserts. This easy homemade recipe will show you how to make this floral-infused sweetener in no time!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Seep Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 20 minutes
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: American
Keyword: lavender simple syrup
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 49kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • ½ cup water
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 Tablespoon dried lavender flowers
  • 3 blueberries optional

Instructions

  • Combine the water, sugar, lavender, and blueberries (if using) in a medium saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar has fully dissolved into the water. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  • Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
  • After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the syrup to cool to room temperature. As it cools, the lavender will continue to infuse, deepening the flavor.
  • Once cooled, strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the lavender flowers.
  • Use your lavender syrup in cocktails, desserts, etc. Enjoy.

Notes

  • Store lavender syrup in a clean, airtight container. Glass is preferable as it won’t retain flavors and is easy to sterilize.
  • Keep your lavender syrup in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it should last several weeks.

Nutrition

Calories: 49kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 0.02g | Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.001g | Sodium: 1mg | Potassium: 1mg | Fiber: 0.01g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 6IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 5mg | Iron: 0.04mg