Savor the Flavors: A Cedar Spoon’s Top 10 Most Popular Recipes of 2016

2016 was indeed a delicious and memorable year here at A Cedar Spoon, filled with everything from savory enchiladas to vibrant, vegetable-packed salads topped with creamy feta cheese, and wholesome one-pot pastas that consistently delighted our readers. Dive into our celebrated collection of the Top 10 Most Popular Recipes of 2016 – dishes you simply can’t go wrong with!

Reflecting on a Delicious Year: Our Top 10 Reader Favorite Recipes from 2016

As another year gracefully draws to a close, it’s a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the culinary journey we’ve shared here at A Cedar Spoon. Time truly does fly by when you’re having fun, especially when you’re surrounded by delicious food and the joy of family. 2016 was an extra special year for us, as it held profound personal significance with the arrival of our third son, Jack, on September 30th. His infectious joy has woven an even richer tapestry into our family life, making every moment more precious, and we couldn’t imagine our world without him.

Despite the beautiful chaos of welcoming a new baby and being pregnant for most of 2016, my passion for cooking and creating nourishing meals remained a constant, guiding force in my kitchen. This annual tradition of looking back at our most cherished recipes is one of my favorites, as it truly showcases what resonated most with you, our incredible community. From vibrant, veggie-packed salads to comforting, cheesy enchiladas and innovative one-pot pastas, the dishes that captured your hearts (and appetites!) in 2016 truly represent the diverse and delicious spirit of A Cedar Spoon. Each recipe on this “Top 10” list fills me with immense pride and inspires me to continue sharing my love for food and the joy it brings to our lives in 2017.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to each and every one of you who visit this little corner of the internet, for cooking along with me, and for sharing your passion for good food. I have always had a deep passion for cooking and truly believe that a delicious meal has the power to bring even the most different of people together around a table. It’s a privilege to share this journey with such a supportive and like-minded community, and I am always excited to connect with you.

Cheers to a safe, happy holiday season, and a New Year filled with even more delicious adventures!

10. Vegetarian Black Bean Enchiladas

Kicking off our countdown at number 10 are the incredibly popular Vegetarian Black Bean Enchiladas. These enchiladas proved to be a go-to for many of you seeking a flavorful and satisfying meatless meal. Perfect for a busy weeknight, they offer the convenience of being prepped ahead of time, making dinner assembly a breeze. Each bite delivers a delightful combination of seasoned black beans and an array of fresh vegetables, generously enveloped in warm tortillas. Topped with your preferred enchilada sauce and a generous layer of melted cheese, these enchiladas bake into a comforting, gooey Mexican favorite that’s both healthy and utterly delicious. They’re a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty, plant-based dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.

9. Tropical Tuna Stuffed Avocado

Claiming the ninth spot, the Tropical Tuna Stuffed Avocado became a favorite for its refreshing simplicity and vibrant flavors. This recipe is an absolute lifesaver for those looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly satisfying lunch option, whether you’re at your desk or on the go. Imagine succulent solid white albacore tuna, lightened with Greek yogurt, expertly mixed with juicy fresh mango, aromatic cilantro, and crisp, fresh vegetables. A bright squeeze of lime juice ties all these tropical elements together, creating a filling that is then generously nestled into the creamy half of a perfectly ripe avocado. It’s a delightful fusion of tastes and textures, offering a boost of protein and healthy fats, making it a truly smart and delicious choice for a midday meal.

8. One Pot Chicken Enchilada Pasta

At number eight, we have a brilliant weeknight solution that merges two beloved dishes: the One Pot Chicken Enchilada Pasta. This ingenious recipe takes all the familiar, comforting flavors of your favorite chicken enchiladas and transforms them into a single-pot pasta marvel. Say goodbye to multiple dirty dishes and hello to an easy-to-prepare meal that’s packed with flavor. Tender, cooked chicken, rich enchilada sauce, and pasta cook together in one pan, absorbing all the delicious spices. Finished with a generous sprinkle of cheese, fresh cilantro, and vibrant green onions, this dish offers a hearty, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying dinner experience that truly lives up to its ‘not to be missed’ status. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary.

7. Gouda Smashed Potatoes

Coming in at lucky number seven, the Gouda Smashed Potatoes proved to be an instant classic, especially around the holiday season. This side dish is designed to impress, yet remains wonderfully simple to prepare. Small, golden potatoes are par-boiled, then gently ‘smashed’ to create more surface area for crisping. They are then drizzled with fragrant olive oil and minced garlic, baked to a beautiful golden crisp perfection. The magic happens when they’re generously topped with slices of creamy, nutty Gouda cheese and returned to the oven just long enough for the cheese to become warm, bubbly, and exquisitely melted. The result is a savory, crispy-edged, cheesy delight that elevates any meal, making it an unforgettable addition to your dinner table, holidays or otherwise.

6. Homemade Chai Tea Latte

Securing the sixth spot is the comforting and aromatic Homemade Chai Tea Latte. This recipe quickly became a fan favorite, especially as the cooler weather set in, offering the perfect beverage to warm you from the inside out and create a cozy atmosphere. Forget expensive coffee shop versions – this homemade rendition allows you to control the sweetness and strength, making it perfectly tailored to your taste. The rich, warm spices characteristic of traditional chai tea – cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and nutmeg – are simmered to perfection, then blended with your favorite milk to achieve a creamy, thick, and luxurious consistency. It’s more than just a drink; it’s a moment of tranquility and indulgence, easily reproducible in your own kitchen for a perfect start to the day or a soothing afternoon treat.

5. Baked Blueberry Banana Steel Cut Oatmeal

Taking the fifth position, the Baked Blueberry Banana Steel Cut Oatmeal emerged as a beloved option for a healthy and hearty start to the day. This recipe offers a wonderful alternative to traditional stovetop oatmeal, providing a hands-off approach to a nourishing breakfast or snack that the entire family will adore. Imagine tender steel cut oats baked with juicy, warm blueberries and sweet, caramelized bananas. Infused with a hint of cinnamon and, optionally, vanilla protein powder for an added boost, this dish is both incredibly satisfying and deliciously wholesome. It’s perfect for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy a warm, comforting, and nutritious breakfast throughout the week with minimal effort. A truly delightful way to fuel your body and delight your taste buds.

4. Cucumber Hummus Bites

At number four, the Cucumber Hummus Bites proved to be a refreshing and elegant hit for gatherings and casual snacking alike. These vibrant bites are the epitome of simple sophistication, making them the perfect finger food or appetizer for your next party, potluck, or get-together. Each bite begins with a crisp, cool cucumber slice, providing a refreshing base. This is then generously topped with creamy roasted red pepper hummus, adding a layer of savory depth. Diced fresh tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and a sprinkle of bright, fresh parsley complete these delightful morsels. They are not only visually appealing but also offer a burst of fresh flavors and textures, making them an irresistible and healthy option that disappears quickly from any serving platter.

3. Greek Village Salad

Holding strong at number three, the Greek Village Salad transported many of you straight to the sun-drenched shores of Greece with every vibrant bite. This isn’t just a salad; it’s a celebration of fresh, crisp vegetables, creating a healthy and incredibly satisfying meal. Overflowing with ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, crisp bell peppers, and red onions, it’s generously topped with salty feta cheese, briny Kalamata olives, and zesty pepperoncinis. Dressed simply with olive oil and a hint of red wine vinegar, this salad is a flavor powerhouse. It makes an excellent light lunch on its own, especially when you add chickpeas or grilled chicken for an extra protein boost, or serves as a perfect, refreshing side dish for dinner. A true taste of the Mediterranean, offering both incredible flavor and nourishing goodness.

2. Slow Cooker Turkey Chili

Climbing to the impressive second spot is the wonderfully comforting Slow Cooker Turkey Chili. This recipe became a staple for many, particularly those seeking a healthier twist on a classic comfort food. Opting for ground turkey instead of beef results in a leaner chili, but without sacrificing any of the robust, hearty flavor we all crave. The true beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and convenience: simply combine all the ingredients in your crockpot in the morning, set it, and forget it. As you go about your day, the flavors meld and deepen, slowly cooking to perfection. Imagine coming home to the enticing aroma of a warm, delicious bowl of chili, ready to be ladled and enjoyed. It’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal, offering warmth, satisfaction, and a wholesome dinner solution.

1. One Pot Kale Broccoli Chickpea Orecchiette Pasta

And finally, crowned as the most popular recipe of 2016, we have the phenomenal One Pot Kale Broccoli Chickpea Orecchiette Pasta! This innovative dish captured hearts for its incredible ease, health benefits, and satisfying flavor profile. It masterfully combines nutrient-dense kale and vibrant broccoli with protein-rich chickpeas and delightful orecchiette pasta, all cooked together in a single pot. The magic of this recipe lies in how all the ingredients infuse each other with flavor as they simmer, creating a harmonious and deeply savory meal. Finished with a generous sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese, this pasta delivers a hearty, protein-packed, and completely vegetarian dinner that truly makes you feel good about what you’re serving your family. It’s a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create an unforgettable, fuss-free meal. A well-deserved number one!

 

DO YOU WANT TO GET WEEKLY UPDATES FROM A CEDAR SPOON?

Stay Connected & Never Miss a Recipe! Want to ensure you receive weekly updates and free, fresh recipes delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for the A Cedar Spoon newsletter today by clicking HERE and get free recipes delivered straight to your kitchen.

Beyond the newsletter, you can always find me and join the conversation on your favorite social media platforms. Follow A Cedar Spoon on FACEBOOK, PINTEREST, TWITTER, GOOGLE + AND INSTAGRAM. I just joined Snapchat too {ACEDARSPOON} for behind-the-scenes peeks and daily kitchen adventures! Here’s to a year filled with delicious food, cherished moments, and many more recipes to come. Happy cooking!