10 Fresh Recipe Ideas You Haven’t Tried (But Should)

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If dinner’s been feeling like déjà vu (heck, dessert, too!), it’s time to shake things up. These recipes aren’t just fresh—they’re the edible equivalent of hitting the reset button. From Crockpot Hawaiian Ribs that break every bland-slow-cooker stereotype to Chicken Ramen Stir-Fry that flips your usual noodle routine, it’s all about flavor with a twist. Even sides and sweets pull their weight—Quinoa Pilaf that’s actually exciting, Tater Tot Casserole with major comeback energy, and Chocolate Chocolate Chip Blizzards that definitely didn’t come from the drive-thru. Say goodbye to the food rut. <<<bye-bye>>>

Vegetable Stew

vegetable stew in pan with potatoes, carrots, mushrooms, onions, celery, garnished with minced parsley.
Photo credit: Feasting at Home

This vegan vegetable stew is both hearty and delicious, perfect for a cozy night in. Made with a rich, homemade broth and tender winter vegetables, this stew is packed with flavor. Plus, it’s gluten-free, low-carb, and low-fat!
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stew

Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe

Slice of Chocolate Cream Pie on a plate.
Photo credit: Chelsea’s Messy Apron

This Chocolate Cream Pie recipe is a chocolate lover’s dream! It features a delicious Oreo cookie crust and is filled with a rich and creamy homemade chocolate pudding. Top it all off with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for the perfect dessert.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe

One Pot Quinoa Pilaf

Overhead image of Quinoa Pilaf in a large serving bowl.
Photo credit: Chelsea’s Messy Apron

This one-pot quinoa pilaf is packed with flavor and nutrients! Quinoa, chicken, and chickpeas create a protein-rich base, while dried cherries and almonds add a touch of sweetness and crunch. It’s a quick and easy dinner option that’s both healthy and delicious.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Quinoa Pilaf

Tater Tot Casserole

Cheesy tater tot casserole in a blue dish.
Photo credit: The Cookie Rookie

This Tater Tot Casserole is a crowd-pleaser and so simple to make! Loaded with ground beef, green beans, and a creamy cheese sauce, then topped with crispy tater tots, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly for easy meal prepping!
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Casserole

Crockpot Hawaiian Ribs

crockpot hawaiian ribs on plate over rice
Photo credit: The Cookie Rookie

These Crockpot Hawaiian Ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and packed with flavor! This dump-and-go recipe combines savory and sweet with ingredients like brown sugar, soy sauce, sriracha, and fresh pineapple. It’s an easy way to get delicious, juicy ribs with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Hawaiian Ribs

Healthy Tuna Salad

healthy tuna salad.
Photo credit: The Big Man’s World

This healthy tuna salad is a quick and easy lunch or snack option! It combines flaky tuna, crisp vegetables, and a creamy Greek yogurt dressing. Ready in just 5 minutes, it’s perfect for a light and protein-packed meal.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Tuna Salad

Toaster Strudel

A stack of flaky pastry turnovers filled with red fruit jam, topped with white icing drizzle. Fresh strawberries and a blurred milk glass are in the background.
Photo credit: Chelsea’s Messy Apron

Skip the store-bought version and make these easy, semi-homemade Toaster Strudels by Chelsea’s Messy Apron! Flaky puff pastry is filled with your favorite jam and topped with a simple vanilla glaze. They’re perfect for a quick breakfast or a sweet treat!
Get the Recipe: Toaster Strudel

Easy Chicken Ramen Stir-Fry

ramen chicken stir fry with carrots in a beige bowl
Photo credit: Salt and Lavender

This easy chicken ramen stir-fry is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal. The sweet and tangy peanut-lime sauce combined with fresh basil and cilantro makes this dish a family favorite. Ready in minutes, it’s a comforting and flavorful dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Ramen Stir-Fry

Apple Crumb Cake

slice of apple crumb cake on a silver plate
Photo credit: Sally’s Baking Recipes

This apple crumb cake is the perfect breakfast treat or dessert for the fall season! It features a thick layer of crumb topping and is incredibly easy to make. Serve with a maple, vanilla, or caramel icing for an extra touch of sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crumb Cake

Chocolate Chocolate Chip Blizzards

Tall glass filled with our super creamy vegan Chocolate Chocolate Chip Blizzard
Photo credit: Minimalist Baker

Craving a cool, creamy dessert without the dairy? These Chocolate Chocolate Chip Blizzards are your answer! Made with a base of cashews and coconut milk, plus cocoa powder, chocolate chips, and a hint of coffee, this vegan treat comes together quickly with no baking required.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chocolate Chip Blizzards

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About Jenny deRemer

I am a Charleston, South Carolina-based culinary novice, an ardent authority on all things travel, a designer by trade, and the creator of Not Entirely Average. I have a weakness for farmers' markets, delight in adventures way off the beaten path, enjoy documenting my many moods through photography, and have been known to conquer the occasional yard sale with gusto!

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