Everything tastes better with Maple Syrup

Spring is the perfect time to add a touch of sweetness to your dishes with the use of maple syrup. Maple syrup is extracted during the early spring from the sap of maple trees. This natural sweetener, and a Canadian staple, can be used in a variety of recipes, from breakfast to dinner. Here are three delicious spring recipes that use maple syrup

INSTRUCTIONS:

◊ Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.

◊ In a large bowl, mix together the oats and chopped pecans.

◊ In a small saucepan, melt the coconut oil and whisk in the maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.

◊ Pour the maple syrup mixture over the oats and pecans, stirring until everything is evenly coated.

◊ Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

◊ Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the granola is golden brown.

◊ Allow to cool completely before serving.

Hearty Maple-Glazed Carrots

INGREDIENTS:

◊ 1 pound baby carrots

◊ 1/4 cup maple syrup

◊ 2 tablespoons butter

◊ 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

◊ Salt and pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

◊ Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

◊ In a small saucepan, melt the butter and whisk in the maple syrup and apple cider vinegar.

◊ Place the baby carrots in a baking dish and pour the maple syrup mixture over them, making sure they are evenly coated.

◊ Season with salt and pepper to taste.

◊ Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the carrots are tender and the glaze is caramelized.

Maple Salmon with Soy & Ginger

INGREDIENTS:

◊ 4 salmon fillets

◊ Salt and pepper

◊ 2 tablespoons olive oil

◊ 1/4 cup maple syrup

◊ 1/4 cup soy sauce

◊ 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

◊ 1 clove garlic, minced

◊ 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

◊ Rosemary for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

◊ Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.

◊ Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

◊ Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side up. Cook for 3-4 minutes until browned and crispy.

◊ Flip the salmon fillets and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

◊ In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic, and ginger.

◊ Pour the maple syrup mixture over the salmon fillets in the skillet.

◊ Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the sauce has thickened, and the salmon is fully cooked.

◊ Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions or sesame seeds, if desired.

Mother’s Day Crafts

There are so many thoughtful things you can do for Mother’s Day to make your mom feel loved and appreciated. Although material gifts are always a hit and sure to last, a fun bonding experience can last even longer. Here are some activities that the whole family can enjoy this Mother’s Day!

and bonding — above all, it gives your child the opportunity to express their love by creating something personal and meaningful. Here are 3 fun and easy crafts!