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Back-to-School Solutions that Save Time in the Kitchen

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Last Updated on September 9, 2025 by Daily News Staff

Back-to-School Solutions

Back-to-School Solutions

(Family Features) When the back-to-school season brings jam-packed schedules full of learning and homework, every minute counts for the parents who make those school days possible. Create some extra time for special moments with the special people in your life by prioritizing easy yet delicious dinners that can help refuel parents and students.

In just five minutes, you can prepare a spicy take on chicken and rice with this family favorite Buffalo and Blue Cheese Chicken recipe. Making some extra time for yourself is as simple as starting with Minute White Rice Cups packed conveniently in single-serving BPA-free cups you can finish preparing in just 1 minute.

When you’re looking for a fun way to introduce your little learner to the kitchen, try creating your own homemade Buffalo sauce for this dish by mixing hot sauce, butter, white vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper and garlic powder. Heat in a saucepan until the butter melts and the mixture simmers, then turn down the heat and wait for it to cool.

If your loved ones aren’t big fans of spice, turn to a tamer take on a kid-friendly classic with “Mac” and Cheese in a Cup, a creamy rice version of the familiar favorite made with milk, cheddar and cream cheese. Just because you may not have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen doesn’t have to mean suffering through boring meals – simply use the microwave to enjoy this speedy yet tasty option.

It’s easy to enjoy the buttery taste and aromatic scent of jasmine rice – regardless of how packed your schedule is – by using Minute Jasmine Rice Cups to make quick dinners a reality. This taste bud-tingling take on mac and cheese made in a microwaveable cup saves you from clean-up duty and leaves more time for homework, after-school activities, school projects and all the excitement that comes with a new school year.

To find more quick yet satisfying and delicious dinner ideas for busy school nights, visit MinuteRice.com.

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Buffalo and Blue Cheese Chicken Recipe

Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 3 minutes
Servings: 1

  • 1 cup Minute White Rice
  • 1 breaded chicken tender, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons Buffalo sauce
  • 1 tablespoon crumbled blue cheese, for garnish
  • 1 green onion, sliced, for garnish
  1. Heat rice according to package directions.
  2. In a small, microwave-safe bowl, combine chicken and sauce. Microwave on high 2-3 minutes.
  3. Serve chicken over rice. Garnish with blue cheese and green onion.
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“Mac” and Cheese in a Cup Recipe

Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 3 minutes
Servings: 1

  • 1 cup Minute Jasmine Rice
  • 1/3 cup 2% milk
  • 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon cream cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 pinch dry mustard powder (optional)
  1. Heat rice according to package directions.
  2. In a microwave-safe cup, stir rice, milk, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder and mustard powder, if desired.
  3. Microwave on high, stirring occasionally, 2 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is melted and saucy.

Tips: For extra-cheesy rice, add 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese.

Substitute garlic powder with 1/2 clove minced, fresh garlic.

Back-to-School Solutions that Save Time in the Kitchen

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Minute Rice

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    Rebecca Jo is a mother of four and is a creative soul from Phoenix, Arizona, who also enjoys new adventures. Rebecca Jo has a passion for the outdoors and indulges in activities like camping, fishing, hunting and riding roller coasters. She is married to Rod Washington

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Rebecca Jo is a mother of four and is a creative soul from Phoenix, Arizona, who also enjoys new adventures. Rebecca Jo has a passion for the outdoors and indulges in activities like camping, fishing, hunting and riding roller coasters. She is married to Rod Washington

Food and Beverage

Purely Elizabeth Launches Purely Glow Granola, Its First Beauty-Inspired Limited Edition

Purely Elizabeth debuts Purely Glow Salted Vanilla Pistachio Granola, a limited-edition, beauty-inspired blend with collagen peptides and biotin, timed to New York Fashion Week.

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Last Updated on April 1, 2026 by Daily News Staff

Purely Elizabeth is stepping beyond the breakfast bowl and into the “glow-from-within” conversation.

The Boulder-based natural foods brand announced the launch of Purely Glow Salted Vanilla Pistachio Granola, a limited-edition flavor that blends its signature crunchy clusters with beauty-inspired functional ingredients—including collagen peptides and biotin. The drop is timed to New York Fashion Week, signaling how quickly wellness brands are borrowing cues from beauty culture: trend-driven, ritual-focused, and built for social.

Purely Elizabeth debuts Purely Glow Salted Vanilla Pistachio Granola, a limited-edition, beauty-inspired blend with collagen peptides and biotin, timed to New York Fashion Week.
Purely Elizabeth introduces its first-ever beauty-inspired granola, Purely Glow Salted Vanilla Pistachio, with collagen peptides and biotin, for a limited time.

Why a “beauty granola” now?

If you’ve spent any time on TikTok lately, you’ve seen the shift: wellness content is increasingly framed like skincare—daily routines, “non-negotiables,” and ingredients people swear by.

Purely Elizabeth points to that momentum in the announcement, noting that TikTok posts featuring collagen increased by 70% over the past year compared to the previous two years. At the same time, pistachio has had its own breakout moment, with 55,000 pistachio-related TikTok posts in the most recent year—a 104% increase over the prior 24 months.

Translation: consumers aren’t just shopping for flavor anymore. They’re shopping for functionaesthetic, and ritual.

What’s inside Purely Glow Salted Vanilla Pistachio Granola

On the flavor side, Purely Glow is positioned as an elevated, dessert-leaning blend built around a salty-sweet profile:

  • Organic oats
  • Roasted pistachios
  • Real vanilla bean
  • A hint of sea salt

From a nutrition and formulation standpoint, the granola is:

  • Gluten-free
  • Sweetened with coconut sugar
  • Baked with coconut oil
  • good source of fiber
  • Enriched with collagen peptidescoconut water powder, and biotin

Founder and CEO Elizabeth Stein says the concept comes from a personal place—bringing together “nourishing food and daily beauty rituals,” and leaning into the idea that what you eat can be part of how you care for yourself.

A collab that takes it beyond the grocery aisle

To push the launch into lifestyle territory, Purely Elizabeth is partnering with Cha Cha Matcha for a limited-time “Purely Glow” menu at all locations.

The menu includes:

  • Pistachio Matcha Lattes (hot or iced)
  • Purely Glow Yogurt Parfait layered with coconut yogurt, matcha chia pudding, and topped with Purely Glow Granola

The brand is also hosting “Glow Up” pop-up events to bring the product to life:

  • Cha Cha Matcha Flatiron (NYC): February 12, 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., plus the weekend
  • Cha Cha Matcha Beverly Hills: February 20–22

Availability and price

Purely Glow Granola launches February 12 for $7.99 and will be sold until it sells out. It’s available exclusively via:

  • PurelyElizabeth.com
  • TikTok Shop
  • Cha Cha Matcha locations

A brand move that fits the moment

Purely Elizabeth has been around for 16 years and says it has remained the #1 granola brand in the natural channel for more than eight consecutive years—so this isn’t a reinvention as much as a strategic expansion.

The bigger takeaway: food brands are increasingly marketing like beauty brands. Limited editions. Ingredient storytelling. Collabs. Pop-ups. Social-first launches.

Purely Glow is a clean example of that playbook—built around a trending flavor (pistachio), a trending function (collagen/biotin), and a cultural moment (NYFW) that makes the product feel like more than breakfast.

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For more details, visit purelyelizabeth.com.

Sources: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/purely-elizabeth-launches-limited-edition-purely-glow-granola-brands-first-beauty-inspired-granola-302683272.html

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Food and Beverage

Easy, Approachable Solutions for At-Home Lenten Meals

At-Home Lenten Meals: Lent is an opportunity for families to explore new seafood flavors, making mealtime enjoyable. Simple recipes, like One-Pot Creamy Shrimp Scampi, encourage kids to confidently try seafood, enhancing family meals.

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Last Updated on April 1, 2026 by Daily News Staff

Easy, Approachable Solutions for At-Home Lenten Meals

Easy, Approachable Solutions for At-Home Lenten Meals

(Feature Impact) Lent has long been a season of tradition and reflection, and it can also be an opportunity to introduce your family to exciting new flavors that may become staples in your kitchen.

If preparing seafood feels intimidating, try starting with dishes that are easy, familiar and approachable. For example, One-Pot Creamy Shrimp Scampi features a velvety sauce, earthy spinach and buttery, delicious shrimp – a recognizable and approachable recipe that can be a gateway to discovery.

Made with SeaPak frozen shrimp, you can help picky eaters in your home feel more confident in saying “yes” to something new. Frozen seafood is a perfect partner for familiar favorites like pasta, making it a playful, stress-free solution for encouraging exploration at mealtime.

“For many families, Lent often brings a shift at the dinner table – and this year, parents are turning it into an opportunity to try something new,” said Diana Rice, child nutritionist and registered dietitian. “When food feels approachable, it lowers stress for everyone. Familiar flavors help kids say ‘yes’ more often, and those positive moments can make seafood a feel-good part of family meals during Lent and beyond.”

When kids see foods that look and taste familiar – like the crunch of crispy fried shrimp – they may feel more comfortable giving it a try. That’s why discovery can extend beyond the dinner table to snack time, too.

Give kiddos the energy they need for homework assignments with Butterfly Shimp Bruschetta, a quick solution for after-school or weekend snacking. As your pickier loved ones dive in for something new, those small wins can build confidence to try new things – one bite at a time.

This Lent, swap “giving up” for “try this” with more approachable frozen seafood solutions and family-friendly recipes at SeaPak.com.

//www.youtube.com/embed/006rXnSXZGY

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One-Pot Creamy Shrimp Scampi

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

  • 1          package (12 ounces) SeaPak Shrimp Scampi
  • 1 1/4    cups half-and-half or milk
  • 1 1/4    cups chicken stock
  • 8          ounces linguine noodles
  • 6          cups fresh spinach
  • 1/4       cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4          lemon wedges
  1. In large, high-sided saute pan, add shrimp and cook according to package directions. Remove shrimp to bowl and keep warm.
  2. In same pan with scampi sauce, stir in half-and-half and stock. Bring to low boil. Add pasta. Cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked al dente, 8-10 minutes.
  3. Stir in spinach and cook just until beginning to wilt. Stir reserved shrimp into pan.
  4. To serve, divide shrimp scampi between four bowls and top each with grated Parmesan. Serve with lemon wedges.
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Butterfly Shrimp Bruschetta

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6

  • 1          package (9 ounces) SeaPak Jumbo Butterfly Shrimp
  • 1          baguette
  • 3          garlic cloves, divided
  • 6          tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 3          cups grape or cherry tomatoes, seeded and finely diced
  • 1/3       cup chopped basil, plus additional for garnish
  • salt, to taste
  • pepper, to taste
  1. Preheat oven to 425 F. Bake shrimp according to package directions and keep warm.
  2. Slice baguette to match number of shrimp. Rub one garlic clove over one side of each slice of bread. Brush garlic-rubbed sides with 3 tablespoons olive oil. Set aside.
  3. Finely dice remaining garlic.
  4. In medium mixing bowl, stir tomatoes, remaining olive oil, diced garlic and 1/3 cup chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and set aside.
  5. In large, hot skillet, working in batches, add baguette slices oil sides down and cook until browned around edges. Remove from pan.
  6. Top each baguette slice with small spoonful of tomato mixture and one shrimp. Garnish with basil leaf.

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At our core, we at STM Daily News, strive to keep you informed and inspired with the freshest content on all things food and beverage. From mouthwatering recipes to intriguing articles, we’re here to satisfy your appetite for culinary knowledge.

Visit our Food & Drink section to get the latest on Foodie News and recipes, offering a delightful blend of culinary inspiration and gastronomic trends to elevate your dining experience. https://stmdailynews.com/food-and-drink/

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Food and Beverage

Create Little Moments of Happiness This Spring with Family-Friendly Potato Recipes

As spring encourages outdoor activities, The Little Potato Company offers time-saving products, like pre-washed Little Potatoes and crispy snacks. Enjoy convenient family meals and enter their sweepstakes for a chance to win travel and grocery prizes.

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As the weather breaks and spring brings increased opportunities for families to get outside, activities, adventures and jam-packed calendars abound. Bring a little moment of happiness to busy family mealtimes during the spring season with these recipes for Crispy Air Fryer Potato Nuggets and Basil Pesto Mashed Potatoes.

(Feature Impact) As the weather breaks and spring brings increased opportunities for families to get outside, activities, adventures and jam-packed calendars abound. All those special moments spent at the park, the sports field or in the backyard may leave lasting memories, but they can also leave you feeling short on time in the kitchen.

Bring a little moment of happiness to busy family mealtimes during the spring season with The Little Potato Company’s line of easy-to-prepare Little Potatoes. They come pre-washed, require no peeling and are small enough that they don’t need to be cut, allowing for less time in the kitchen and more family time around the table as the days get longer – no extra spring cleaning required. For an added helping of convenience, their Microwave Ready Little Potato Kits come with delicious seasoning packs; simply pop into the microwave, sprinkle on the included seasoning and enjoy.

For a fun after-school or game-night snack, these Crispy Air Fryer Potato Nuggets pair perfectly with a variety of delicious dips. The air fryer cooks the potatoes in minutes, creating a crispy snack with minimal prep – no chopping or peeling needed.

Or you can make a delicious side dish a cinch with pesto, which adds a bright, flavorful twist to a classic in these Basil Pesto Mashed Potatoes. They pair perfectly with everyday family meals using Little Potatoes that require no chopping or peeling thanks to their naturally thin skins, helping cut down on prep time while bringing fresh flavor to the dinner table.

To help fuel families’ spring vacation plans and everyday meals, The Little Potato Company is giving you a chance to enter a sweepstakes through May 25 to win a $10,000 travel voucher with additional prizes including 10 grocery gift cards valued at $1,000.

Enter the sweepstakes at TheLittleSpringtimeSweeptakes.com, and find more ways to make spring meals a breeze by visiting LittlePotatoes.com.

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Crispy Air Fryer Potato Nuggets and Dip

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 24 minutes

Servings: 4

Potatoes:

  • 1          cup all-purpose flour
  • 1          teaspoon salt
  • 1          teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2       teaspoon pepper
  • 1          cup milk
  • 1 1/2    cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 1/2    pounds Little Potatoes

Chimichurri:

  • 1          bunch cilantro
  • 1          bunch parsley
  • 3          limes, juice only
  • 2          tablespoons honey
  • 2          teaspoons salt
  • 1/2       teaspoon pepper
  • 1          teaspoon chili flakes
  • 1          cup canola oil
  1. Heat air fryer to 390 F.
  2. To make potatoes: In a shallow bowl, combine flour, salt, garlic powder and pepper. Whisk in milk until smooth.
  3. Place panko in a separate shallow bowl.
  4. Working in batches, coat potatoes in batter then toss in panko until fully coated.
  5. Place potatoes in the air fryer and cook 24 minutes, flipping halfway.
  6. To make chimichurri: In a blender, blend cilantro, parsley, lime juice, honey, salt, pepper, chili flakes and canola oil until smooth.
  7. Serve potato nuggets with chimichurri.
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Basil Pesto Mashed Potatoes

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4

  • 1 1/2    pounds Little Potatoes
  •             water
  • 1          teaspoon salt, plus additional for seasoning, to taste, divided
  • 2 1/2    cups fresh basil
  • 4          cloves garlic
  • 1/3       cup pine nuts
  • 1/2       cup Parmesan, grated
  • 2/3       cup olive oil
  • pepper, to taste
  • 1/2       cup milk
  • 2          tablespoons butter
  1. Add potatoes to a large pot and cover with water. Add 1 teaspoon salt and bring to a boil for 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
  2. In a food processor, place basil, garlic, pine nuts and Parmesan. Add oil and pulse until mixed then season with salt and pepper, to taste.
  3. In a small saucepot over low heat, heat milk and butter until butter is melted and milk is steaming.
  4. Once potatoes are cooked, strain and transfer to a medium mixing bowl.
  5. Using a potato masher, smash potatoes with milk and butter mixture then season with salt and pepper, to taste. Stir in pesto mixture.
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Little Potato Company

STM Daily News’ Food and Drink section highlights the stories, trends, flavors, and events shaping today’s food culture. From recipes to restaurant news, it keeps readers connected to what’s fresh and worth tasting.

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