Health News Channel - Healthy Living

I’m Just Here for Bad Bunny's Halftime Show—and These Are the Recipes I’m Bringing to the Party

Reviewed by Dietitian Lisa Valente, M.S., RD

Bad Bunny: Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images. Recipe photo: Evan de Normandie. EatingWell design.

Who’s ready for the Big Game this weekend? I know I am, but honestly, I’m more excited to dance it out to one of my all-time favorite artists during the halftime show. Fresh off a historic Grammy win for Album of the Year—the first Latin artist to take home the honor—the Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny is set to light up the halftime stage with his unbeatable rhythm. And the video teasers promise a full-on dance party.

As someone with Puerto Rican heritage on my dad’s side, this is a proud moment not only for my family but also for the millions of Latinos tuning into the game. While I do love classic game-day eats, this year I can think of no better way to celebrate than by making some Puerto Rican recipes. From tostones to mojitos, these nibbles are sure to fuel my halftime dance party!

01 of 09

Fresh Mint Mojito Cocktail

fresh mint mojito

It’s not a Puerto Rican party without mojitos. Fresh mint and zesty lime combine to create a flavor base for this classic rum cocktail. I like to make mine with Puerto Rican white rum—a bartender in Río Grande once told me, a true mojito must be made with Bacardi!

02 of 09

Mojito Mocktails

Be sure to whip up a batch of these mocktails as well, also known as “Nojitos.” Half my family abstains from alcohol, plus it’s a great option for the kids as well.

03 of 09

3-Ingredient Guava & Cream Cheese Bites

Photographer: Fred Hardy, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Lindsey Lower.

My grandmother “Mama Sonia” loved to throw parties, and whenever she did, she always served a cheese board with guava paste and Manchego, a perfect pairing. If you’re short on time, do like Mama Sonia and serve the guava-and-cheese board; it’s always a hit. But if you have a little more time, make these easy puff pastry bites inspired by pastelillos, a Puerto Rican pastry you can find in all the local bakeries.

04 of 09

Tostones with Mayo-Ketchup Dipping Sauce

Evan de Normandie — Evan de Normandie

Tostones, crispy smashed fried plantains, are a beloved treat in Puerto Rico and the rest of the Caribbean. For dipping, be sure to serve with pink sauce, a classic mayo-ketchup combo.

05 of 09

Slow-Cooker Arroz con Pollo (Chicken & Rice)

Photographer: Grant Webster, Food Stylist: Lauren McAnelly, Prop Stylist: Maura Timmerman, Art Director: Maria Emmighausen

For the main course, you can’t go wrong with this one-pot chicken dinner. Set it and forget it, then keep it warm in your slow cooker until it’s time to eat.

06 of 09

Arroz con Habichuelas Guisadas (Puerto Rican-Inspired Rice with Stewed Beans)

Photographer: Brie Goldman, Food Stylist: Annie Probst, Prop Stylist: Breanna Ghazali

For a vegetarian option, rice and beans is the way to go. Arroz con Habichuelas Guisadas is a classic Puerto Rican dish celebrated for its rich, comforting flavors. The beans are stewed in an aromatic broth that gets its flavor from recaito and herbs like culantro and cilantro. Serve with white rice to soak it all up.

07 of 09

Mango & Avocado Salad

Photography: Caitlin Bensel, Food Styling: Kady Wohlfarth

Avocado is the perfect foil for pairing with a bright and flavorful tropical fruit—and is an homage to my roots. My great grandfather was a grapefruit farmer in San Juan and my father grew up with mango trees in his backyard. Needless to say my grandfather “Papa Roger” was quite the connoisseur when it came to tropical fruit. There were always giant avocados, mango, papaya and other tropical fruit sitting on my grandparents’ kitchen counter. He always knew the exact minute something was ripe just by giving it a little squeeze.

08 of 09

Piña Colada Nice Cream

Piña Colada Nice Cream in green bowls

Get all the tropical flavors you love in a piña colada in this creamy dessert. This ice cream alternative gets its sweetness from pineapple and coconut and is just as delicious with or without the optional rum. Either way, it's sure to put you in a beachy state of mind—not bad for a treat that takes just 10 minutes to whip up in your food processor.

09 of 09

Caramel Cream Cheese Custard (Flan de Queso)

Mama Sonia was known for her flan, a creamy upside-down custard with a sticky caramel topping. This version is lightened up with reduced-fat cream cheese for a rich, comforting texture.

Read more: I’m Just Here for Bad Bunny's Halftime Show—and These Are the Recipes I’m Bringing to the Party

This Chicken & Sweet Potato Wrap Is an Easy, High-Protein Lunch

These hearty wraps are filled with roasted sweet potatoes, chicken and mashed avocado. Using a rotisserie chicken saves time, but any leftover cooked chicken will work well.

Read more: This Chicken & Sweet Potato Wrap Is an Easy, High-Protein Lunch

Sergey Danilov is “Going to Be a Problem,” says Milos Sarcev

In Episode 270 of The Menace Podcast, host Dennis James was joined by his regular crew consisting of Chris “The Real Deal” Cormier and Milos “The Mind” Sarcev. This week, the conversation quickly turned to Russian bodybuilder, Sergey Danilov, who was recently seen playing around with a bear. It was all in the name of […]

Read more: Sergey Danilov is “Going to Be a Problem,” says Milos Sarcev

Front Squat Setup Guide: Master Bar Position, Elbow Drive & Perfect Form

Shifting the barbell from the back to the front is a whole different ballgame for your squat setup. If you rush it, the bar rolls forward, pulling your elbows down or folding your torso into a good morning. Miss one detail, and the lift unravels fast. Front squat setups will look different due to mobility […]

Read more: Front Squat Setup Guide: Master Bar Position, Elbow Drive & Perfect Form

This Easy Veggie Fried Rice Is on the Table in 20 Minutes

This easy fried rice is packed with quick-cooking veggies, including zucchini, carrot and green beans. Leftover cooked brown rice can be used here if you have it—you’ll need 2 cups.

Read more: This Easy Veggie Fried Rice Is on the Table in 20 Minutes

Your Guide to a Healthy Reset: Small Changes, Big Benefits

Expert-backed tips that will help you feel your best—no rules, no guilt, no restriction. Don’t worry about perfection. Focus on progress that feels good.

Read more: Your Guide to a Healthy Reset: Small Changes, Big Benefits

Savory Oatmeal Is Underrated—Try This Grain Bowl and See for Yourself

Savory oats are an underrated way to enjoy the whole grain—the toppings are endless! Cooking oats in soy milk is an easy way to add protein to this hearty grain bowl. Here, we top the oats with a bright roasted red pepper-olive mixture and a poached egg for richness.

Read more: Savory Oatmeal Is Underrated—Try This Grain Bowl and See for Yourself

Dietitians Wish You'd Eat This Mediterranean-Diet Food More Often

This Mediterranean-diet pantry essential supports gut health, satiety and your budget.

Read more: Dietitians Wish You'd Eat This Mediterranean-Diet Food More Often

Should You Clean Your Cast-Iron Skillet with Soap? Lodge Settles the Debate

You can use a little soap that doesn’t contain lye. However, these sturdy skillets require a bit more care than stainless-steel or nonstick pans.

Read more: Should You Clean Your Cast-Iron Skillet with Soap? Lodge Settles the Debate

Podiatrists Love These Shoes from Hoka and New Balance, and They’re Up to 50% Off This Week

Shop shoes for the road, trail or the gym.

Read more: Podiatrists Love These Shoes from Hoka and New Balance, and They’re Up to 50% Off This Week

14 Heart-Healthy Vegetarian Dinners You’ll Want to Make Forever

Reviewed by Dietitian Jessica Ball, M.S., RD

Photographer: Morgan Hunt Glaze, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer

This mix of top-rated dinners is sure to have an option for whatever you're in the mood for—from comforting soups to veggie-packed salads. Plus, you can count on each of these meatless meals to have reduced levels of saturated fat and sodium, so sticking to a heart-healthy eating pattern is easy. Recipes like our 5-Ingredient Avocado & Chickpea Salad and Pesto Pasta with Peas & Tomatoes are so tasty, you'll want to make them on repeat.

01 of 14

5-Ingredient Avocado & Chickpea Salad

Photographer: Jake Sternquist, Food Stylist: Sammy Mila, Prop Stylist: Gabriel Greco.

This avocado-and-chickpea salad is a fresh, flavorful dish that comes together in minutes. Made with just five ingredients, it’s as simple as it is satisfying. Creamy avocado pairs perfectly with hearty chickpeas for a filling, plant-based meal. With no cooking required and minimal prep, it’s a perfect quick lunch or dinner.

02 of 14

Lemon-Turmeric Cabbage & White Bean Soup

Photographer: Ali Redmond.

This cozy soup turns humble ingredients into a bowl of golden comfort. Tender cabbage and creamy cannellini beans simmer together with aromatic spices for warmth and depth, while a splash of lemon juice at the end brightens every spoonful. It’s light yet satisfying, full of fiber and antioxidants, and easy enough for a weeknight.

03 of 14

Pesto Pasta with Peas & Tomatoes

Ali Redmond

This Pesto Pasta with Peas & Tomatoes is a bright, flavorful dish that comes together quickly. Pasta is cooked alongside frozen sweet peas, then tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes and basil pesto for a fresh, herbaceous finish. You can serve it warm or chilled, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks or picnics. A sprinkle of Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon add the perfect final touch.

04 of 14

Bean & Pasta Salad

Photographer: Jake Sternquist, Food Stylist: Shannon Goforth, Prop Stylist: Breanna Ghazali.

This bean-and-pasta salad is a satisfying dish packed with plant-based protein. It combines tender pasta with fiber-rich beans, crisp vegetables and a zesty vinaigrette for a well-balanced bite. The flavors continue to meld as it sits, making it an ideal recipe for meal prep or gatherings.

05 of 14

Sheet-Pan Chickpeas & Spring Veggies

Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Styling: Josh Hoggle.

This sheet-pan dinner is a fresh way to celebrate the season. Chickpeas roast alongside tender vegetables on one baking sheet, making cleanup a breeze. Served over a creamy, tangy yogurt base, the warm veggies and chickpeas create a satisfying contrast that feels both comforting and light.

06 of 14

High-Protein Pasta with Peas

Photographer: Morgan Hunt Glaze, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer

This one-pot pasta with peas is packed with plant-based protein and a healthy dose of fiber. The chickpea pasta is cooked with vibrant green peas and tossed with fragrant basil and a rich pesto sauce for fresh flavor in every bite. Nutty toasted pine nuts provide the perfect crunch, adding depth and texture.

07 of 14

General Tso’s Cauliflower

Photographer: Jake Sternquist, Food Stylist: Annie Probst, Prop Stylist: Joseph Wanek

This plant-based version of General Tso’s chicken is the perfect weeknight meal, swapping out the chicken for cauliflower with a boost of vibrant green color and gut-healthy fiber coming from edamame. Serve it over brown rice or whole-wheat noodles to sop up any leftover sauce.

08 of 14

25-Minute Sweet Potato & Bean Enchiladas

Antonis Achilleos — Antonis Achilleos

These quick sweet potato and bean enchiladas are diabetes-friendly thanks to egg wraps that are lower in carbs than traditional tortillas. The vegetarian filling is both sweet and savory, while the topping adds texture and freshness.

09 of 14

High-Protein Butternut Squash & Lentil Soup

Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Priscilla Montiel, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer.

This hearty, plant-based soup is packed with protein from lentils and gets cozy flavors from warming spices like cinnamon, cumin and coriander. A swirl of tangy Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh parsley finish each bowl with brightness and creaminess. Serve with lemon wedges for an extra pop of flavor.

10 of 14

Spaghetti with Creamy Lemon-Spinach Sauce

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Julian Hensarling, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle

Give your veggie servings a boost with this easy spaghetti with spinach sauce recipe. Loosely inspired by the flavors of classic pesto, this vibrant pasta packs in plenty of spinach and basil with a garnish of nutty walnuts and savory Parmesan cheese. Serve with a drizzle of good olive oil and a green salad on the side.

11 of 14

Ash-eh Reshteh (Persian Bean & Pasta Soup)

Photographer: Grant Webster, Food Stylist: Addelyn Evans, Prop Stylist: Gabe Greco

Ash-eh reshteh is a hearty bean and noodle soup that’s packed with fresh herbs. The vegetarian soup is often made for Nowruz, the Persian New Year, but it’s delicious any time.

12 of 14

Veggie Fajitas

Photographer: Jacob Fox, Food stylist: Holly Dreesman, Prop stylist: Joseph Wanek

These veggie fajitas are packed with sweet bell pepper and red onion. Creamy avocado and warm tortillas complete the meal. The veggies alone make a great meal-prep recipe to have on hand. Serve them over rice, or heat them up over tortilla chips topped with melting cheese. To get a little char on your tortillas, place them over a medium gas flame and cook until darkened in spots, flipping once. Place on a plate and cover with a clean kitchen towel to keep warm.

13 of 14

Extra-Crispy Eggplant Parmesan

Photographer: Fred Hardy, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Shell Royster

This eggplant Parmesan is creamy in the center with a crispy panko crust on the outside. To know when your eggplant is cooked to perfection, poke it with the tip of a paring knife. The knife tip should slide through with little resistance. If it feels a little too tough in some spots, it needs a few more minutes in the oven. You can rotate the baking sheet front to back for even browning.

14 of 14

Vegetarian Tacos with Zucchini & Corn

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall

These fresh vegetarian tacos with zucchini and corn take advantage of summer’s best produce. The chipotle-infused refried beans add a layer of heat. For vegan tacos, skip the queso fresco and add chopped avocado in its place.

Read more: 14 Heart-Healthy Vegetarian Dinners You’ll Want to Make Forever

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