It's officially Christmas season! In today's episode, we’re diving into seven creative and thoughtful edible gift ideas perfect for the holiday season. These fun and easy-to-make gifts are ideal for teens to create, either as a one-on-one kitchen session or a holiday baking party with friends. From hot cocoa mix jars to flavored butters, spice nuts, and homemade granola, these gifts are both delicious and personal. Whether you're looking for something sweet or savory, these ideas are sure to spread some extra holiday cheer. Plus, I share tips on making the process smooth and fun, ensuring these edible creations become a treasured part of your holiday traditions. Tune in for inspiration on creating memorable, meaningful gifts this season!Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In today's episode, we’re diving into stress-free, self-serve breakfast ideas that are perfect for Thanksgiving morning (or truly any holiday morning) when you're juggling a busy schedule. I share six easy and teen-approved breakfast ideas that will make your morning a breeze—without sacrificing flavor or fun. From a customizable bagel bar to a savory platter with eggs, cheese, and crusty bread, these ideas are designed to be easy to prepare, delicious, and most importantly, perfect for your teens to help with or even handle on their own. These breakfast trays will save you time, reduce stress, and make your holiday morning feel a little more special. Tune in to get inspired and make your Thanksgiving morning memorable!Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In today's episode, I’m sharing 12 creative and teen-approved ways to use up all those Thanksgiving leftovers. And trust me, this is NOT just reheating the same old dishes! These ideas are easy, quick, and designed to give you a fresh take on Thanksgiving food—without the need for extra grocery runs. Perfect for after the holiday when you’re craving something new but don’t want to waste any of the delicious food you worked SO hard to prepare!Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

We’re diving into Thanksgiving sides that will give your teen a starring role in the kitchen! Thanksgiving is all about family traditions, gratitude, and delicious food—and while the turkey is important, let’s face it: the sides are the real stars of the meal! In this episode, I’m sharing my go-to list of simple, flavorful, and totally teen-friendly Thanksgiving side dishes. These recipes are easy to prepare, can often be made ahead, and will give your teen all the bragging rights when they set their dish on the table.Episode highlights:Thanksgiving is the perfect time to involve your teen and give them a sense of pride in the meal prepThese sides are easy to make with minimal ingredients but pack a punch in flavorMany of these dishes can be prepped ahead of time, saving you stress on the big day!Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In this episode, I dive into the very real hunger of teenagers and the impact it has on our grocery bills. With teens needing more calories than ever, I share my go-to list of protein-packed foods that I keep stocked in my fridge and pantry to minimize those “There’s nothing to eat!” complaints. (Trust me- it really works!) From quick snacks to easy meal components, I’ve got you covered!Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In today's episode, we dive into the importance of incorporating greens into our family meals, especially for our growing teens! Hit play as I reveal practical tips to make greens a staple in your kitchen, ensuring your teens not only consume them but actually enjoy doing so!Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In today's episode, we're talking about the powerful impact of cooking with your teen on family bonds during the challenging teen years. By making it a regular activity, even just 30 minutes a couple of times a week, you can create lasting memories and foster deeper connections and understanding. It'll foster independence, self-empowerment, and a better appreciation for meal preparation.Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In today's episode, I share my love for sheet pans and discuss how they are perfect for teenagers learning to cook. I highlight their versatility with meals like chicken fajitas, shrimp scampi, roasted salmon with broccoli, pork tenderloin with sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts, and a tofu and mushroom vegetarian option. I provide tips for getting crispy tofu using cornstarch and garnishing with sesame seeds and scallions. Even the meat lovers in my household enjoy these meals. Sheet pan cooking is convenient, involves minimal cleanup, and encourages experimentation with ingredients!Links:Nordic Ware PansFree Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In today's episode, we're diving into the world of comforting soups perfect for the cozy fall season. Despite having a family that isn't the biggest fan of soups, I'm sharing five delicious soup recipes that even my teenagers enjoy. We cover a variety of soups: A quick and versatile red lentil soupSavory potato leek soup with homemade croutonsHearty black bean soup with quesadilla dippersCreamy butternut squash paired with grilled cheeseChunky cauliflower soup featuring roasted cauliflower and garlic toastThese soups are budget-friendly, one-pot meals that are healthy and satisfying, ideal for the colder weather. I also reveal some tricks, like choosing the perfect accompanying bread and using flavorful additions to convert non-soup lovers into fans!Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In today's episode, I cover five kitchen skills that will boost your teen's confidence in the kitchen. By learning these important foundational skills, cooking will be less daunting and more enjoyable for teenagers, encouraging them to become more self-reliant and excited about helping in the kitchen! Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenLinks from this episode:Basic Knife Skills:Making your skillet nonstickConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In today's episode, we're addressing the challenge of getting teenagers to eat breakfast on busy mornings. I share a variety of breakfast ideas suitable for both types of teens: the early riser and the last-minute dasher. Recipes include overnight oats, scrambled eggs with versatile add-ins, different toast options, smoothie bowls, yogurt parfaits, boiled eggs, muffins, French toast, smoked salmon, and make-ahead waffle batter. The focus of this conversation is on practicality, customization, and preparation to ensure your teens start their day right with a nutritious meal. Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In this episode, we talk about 10 kitchen chores that teenagers can easily handle, easing the workload for parents while teaching valuable life skills. From mastering knife skills and organizing the pantry to effectively using the dishwasher and meal planning, these tasks are designed to make teens responsible and confident in the kitchen. Hit play for insights on how these chores can foster a sense of responsibility and skill development in teenagers! Trust me - you won't be sorry!Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In today's episode, we're talking about making cooking a fun, stress-free activity amidst the busy back-to-school season. It's so important to involve teens in the whole process—from menu planning and grocery shopping to kitchen prep. Key tips include delegating tasks based on skill level, encouraging experimentation in the kitchen, and making cooking a routine, whether it’s dinner or a more relaxed weekend meal. The goal is to foster quality time, build kitchen confidence, and keep things enjoyable and low-stress.Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In this episode, I share my top 10 school lunch ideas to keep teenagers interested and satisfied. We talk about: Tuna wraps, homemade lunchables, leftovers in a wrap, breakfast sandwiches in English muffins, chicken pita pockets, orzo or pasta salads, lettuce wraps with caramelized pork and veggies, make-ahead burritos, deconstructed California sushi bowls, and chicken or egg salads. Each idea is designed to be simple, delicious, and nutritious, making school lunch preparation less of a chore. Hit play for the magic!Links mentioned in this episode:1. Lettuce Wraps with Caramelized Pork 2. Sushi BowlsFree Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In today's episode, we're talking about one of my all-time favorite ingredients: tomatoes. I share four simple and delicious tomato-based recipes that teens will enjoy making and eating. We're talking about- -A classic BLT (with the basil mayo sauce- of course)-A roasted tomato soup-Compound butter with roasted tomatoes-And a grated tomato sauce. Each recipe emphasizes the peak-season flavor of summer tomatoes and is designed to be easy enough for teens to prepare. Enjoy the last days of summer with these straightforward, flavor-packed recipes (and hey, come back to it any time - let's be honest; these work well all year round!)Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In today's episode, we talk about the benefits of smoothie bowls and share three easy, Instagram-worthy recipes designed to keep athlete teens energized. Learn how to make a Protein Power Smoothie Bowl, a Green Power Smoothie Bowl, and a Tropical Bliss Bowl, all without added sugar. Tune in for tips on creating delicious, nutritious, and customizable meals for your health-conscious teen. (And hey, even if they're not a health-conscious teen, they'll still love it!)Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In this episode of Cooking with Teens, we talk about the delightful experience of making homemade pasta with your teen, including fettuccine and ravioli. The joy and flavor of fresh pasta, and your teen in the kitchen = the process over perfection. A simple fresh tomato sauce recipe is also shared, along with the overall experience of connecting with family while cooking. Try making pasta from scratch as a fun, engaging summer activity with teens, highlighting the messy but rewarding nature of the endeavor. Your kitchen may be messy afterward but it will be worth it!Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenMentioned in this episode:Pasta from scratch recipe!Connect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In this episode, we're talking about our family's epic basil sauce, a versatile and flavorful condiment perfect for elevating a variety of dishes. In this episode:-I details the basic recipe, which includes homemade mayo, basil, garlic, and optional jalapeno for a bit of heat-Suggests various variations and serving ideas, such as using the sauce on sandwiches, salads, roasted veggies, and tacosThis sauce is epic in it's simplicity and adaptability, and so yummy! Hit play to be inspired to get your teens involved in making their own versions (and the sauce adds great addition to packed lunches for the upcoming school year!)Videos of the sauces being used:Veggie tacos with cilantro drizzleShishito peppers with basil sauceThomas keller's zucchini with basil sauceFree Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In today's episode, we're talking about making the most of the remaining summer days by bonding with your teenagers through a nostalgic movie night. The idea is to watch films that you loved during your own teen years, sharing memories and sparking conversations, and of course -- maybe making a dessert, snack, or dinner! Or hey, even ordering a pizza. Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In today's episode, we're talking about the benefits of incorporating after-dinner walks into your routine. Walking helps with digestion, boosts metabolism, and improves sleep while also offering a unique opportunity to bond with your teen. Episode highlights:-Starting small-Making it a family activity-Allowing the teen to choose the route-Permitting phone use-Not forcing conversation. We also talk about conversation starters and encourages allowing comfortable silences (just trust me on this one!) Tune in to learn how this simple habit can be a game-changer for family dynamics.Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

Welcome back, friend! In today's episode, we're talking all about infused water as a refreshing and healthy way to stay hydrated. In this episode you'll get various combinations of fruits, herbs, and vegetables for infused water that is ideal for involving teens in the kitchen. Suggested combinations: -Ginger and lemon-Cucumber mint-Citrus blend& of course, let your teen get creative!Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In this episode, we're exploring a delightful summer idea aimed at fostering deeper connections with teens—sunset dinners. I explain the unique charm of dining outdoors during sunset and how it enhances conversation and strengthens bonds as it encourages simplicity in the meal preparation, suggesting easy, no-stress options like a cheese board or fresh fruit. It can be as simple as fun drinks but maintaining a relaxed atmosphere. So sit back and try to relax in this experience! It could become a cherished family tradition or just a really great memory!Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In this episode, I'm providing quick and easy ways to bond with your teenagers through cooking - specifically focusing on taking your teen to a local farmer's market. It's no secret that the benefits of fresh, seasonal produce can create a great experience; including involving teens in the selection and cooking process. Ready to foster a deeper connection with food and local farmers while spending quality time together? Hit play and let's go!Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In today's episode, we are talking all things refreshing summer treats that are perfect for teens! From frozen yogurt bark and sour patch grapes to watermelon slushies and granitas, these recipes are easy, mostly healthy, and designed for teens to make independently. There's nothing like the joy of seeing kids create their own culinary masterpieces while giving parents a break from snack duty - trust me you NEED this break this summer! (Even if you're just starting to cook with your teen!) Hit play for 15 fun and creative recipes that will keep your teens cool and entertained all summer long!Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In today's episode, my son Lucas and I take you on our culinary adventures of the past week, sharing our takeaways, insights, and recipes for versatile chicken thighs, oven-baked quesadillas, tender steaks, and vibrant vegetarian options! We also highlight the convenience of making delicious meals using leftovers, providing ideas for creative dinners, lunches, and even quick breakfast options. It's summertime, so we're all about easy and enjoyable cooking techniques for teens, that aim to inspire you to get in the kitchen with your teen. Hit play - we know you're going to enjoy these!Links Mentioned:Crispy Oven TacosAvocado CremaKale SaladPasta with Pink SauceFree Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In today's episode, we talk about a variety of summer activities perfect for spending quality time with your teenager. From beach and pool days to backyard movie nights, discover creative ways to bond through cooking and fun. A few ideas mentioned are: Setting up game nights with tasty snacks, enjoying breakfast for dinner, creating snack platters, celebrating summer birthdays, transforming your kitchen into a restaurant, visiting farmer's markets for fresh produce, and organizing theme nights or picnics. hit play & enjoy your summer with these engaging and memorable activities!Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In today's episode, we're exploring various breakfast ideas perfect for summer that your teens will LOVE making! With summer approaching, teens have more leisure time in the mornings, and these recipes are great for a nutritious start to the day. From sweet options like granola, yogurt bowls, and smoothies to savory choices such as waffles, bacon-egg-cheese sandwiches, and avocado toast, there’s something for every taste. Tune in to ensure your teen can enjoy delicious and easy-to-make breakfasts all summer long.Videos mentioned:The Tortilla Omelet Avocado toast with smoked salmonEgg TacoGranolaTomato toastMango matcha smoothieRaspberry peach kefir smoothieFree Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the Kitchen Connect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In this episode, I'm joined again by my son Lucas to explore the eight essential skills teens should master before diving into cooking. We discuss the importance of knowing your way around the kitchen, maintaining kitchen safety and cleanliness, reading recipes thoroughly, developing basic knife skills, using proper tools and measurements, managing time effectively, and grocery shopping including meal planning and budgeting. These are foundational skills in building confidence and self-sufficiency in the kitchen & we've only just begun to scratch the surface with this conversation!Links mentioned:Kitchen TowelsMisono KnifeShun KnifeMiyabi KnifeParing KnivesSerrated knifeFree Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In today's episode, we chat with my 14-year old son James, who shares his experience with cooking, and the relatable perspective he brings unlike his total foodie brother Lucas. James discusses his favorite dish to make - fried chicken - detailing the learning process and the challenge of mastering the recipe. We dive into life skills gained from cooking, such as organization and time management, and the positive impact on their family relationship through bonding over meal preparation. James also talks about experimenting with different ingredients and recipes, highlighting the value of cooking as a crucial skill for personal and relational growth. Cooking is not only a life skill but also as a means to foster family connections and healthy eating habits - tune in and see what I mean!Fried chicken with cornflake batter and a sweet + spicy soy drizzle sauceFried chicken with velvety honey three-mustard sauceAnother video of James making chicken!Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

Today's episode is all about preparing easy, teen-approved meals using leftover cooked chicken as the key protein. I share 10 versatile recipes that encourage teens to experiment with cooking while using simple, often on-hand ingredients. Recipes mentioned in this episode: -Chicken nachos-Chicken caesar wraps-Chicken fried rice-Barbecue chicken pizza-Chicken salad-Chicken quesadillas-Asian chicken lettuce wraps-Creamy chicken alfredo pasta-Chicken pesto panini-Chicken ramen bowl. Tune in to get the recipe and learn the importance of utilizing leftovers, teaching kitchen skills to teens, and fostering their independence and creativity in meal preparation.Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In today's episode, we chat about how involving your teen in the kitchen can teach them responsibility and gratitude. The truth is that kitchen duties are more than chores; they're opportunities for character building, teaching perseverance, and family unity. Trust me- I get it. There may be some reluctance to accept help due to the extra effort required, but what's more important is delegation and the value of teens learning to appreciate the labor behind daily meals & so, so much more. This is an episode you simply need to hear!Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

In today's episode, I had the pleasure of welcoming my 16-year-old son, Lucas, on the podcast to share his perspectives and tips on cooking as a teen. We discussed easy starter dishes like the perfect BLT and simple pasta meals, (you HAVE to hear how he makes his BLT stand out!) plus, we dove into knife skills essential for any budding chef, and explored more complex recipes like steak searing. Lucas also shared the importance of starting small in the kitchen and the benefits that cooking has brought to our relationship. Whether you're a teen looking for culinary inspiration or a parent seeking to bond over food, this episode is for you. Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the KitchenConnect with Anca:Website: www.thebuttertable.comInstagram: @the.buttertable

Cooking with Your Teen Made Easy: 5 Must-Know Tips Okay, parents, we've all faced the challenge: trying to get our teens involved in anything can feel like pulling teeth. The dramatic sighs, eye rolls, and barely decipherable grunts can make asking them to hang out seem like a battle. But here’s the game-changer from a mom of five (yes, I’m that brave): cooking together! It’s surprisingly simple and turns kitchen time into fun bonding sessions. Just follow these five easy steps to make it happen: --- Tip 1: Schedule a Consistent Cooking Day We all know how busy life can get. Between work, school, and extracurriculars, finding time to cook together might seem impossible. But here's the secret: consistency. Choose a day that works for both of you and make it a non-negotiable part of your week. Maybe it’s Sunday afternoons or a midweek evening. The key is to stick to it. This will be a great starting point, especially for a beginner cook.  Practical Ideas: Look at both your schedules and pick a day with the least conflicts. It might be helpful to sit down with your teen and go through your calendars together. This way, they feel involved in the decision-making process. Set reminders on your phone or calendar. This will not only help you remember but also show your teen that you value this time together. Treat it like an important appointment. Just as you wouldn’t cancel a work meeting or a doctor’s appointment, don’t cancel your cooking day unless absolutely necessary. Consistency will build a habit and something for both of you to look forward to each week. You can even schedule a non-cooking day about knife skills and cooking techniques. This doesn't have to be long even 10-15 minutes dedicated to learning the basics will pay off big time. Tip 2: Involve Your Teen in Planning Teens love having a say in things, and meal planning is no different. Involving your teen in the planning process is a great way to get them more excited about cooking. Let them choose recipes, plan meals, and even help with grocery shopping. This involvement gives them a sense of ownership and makes the activity more enjoyable. Practical Ideas:  Create a list of easy recipes together. Go through cookbooks, food blogs, or Pinterest and find recipes that interest both of you. This can be a fun activity in itself! Let your teen pick out ingredients at the grocery store. This helps them learn about different ingredients and where to find them. Plus, it makes the grocery trip feel like an adventure rather than a chore.  Discuss and plan the week's meals during a family meeting. This not only gets your teen involved but also teaches them valuable organizational and planning skills. Planning also helps establish a healthy relationship with food. Encourage your teen to find recipes online or in cookbooks that excite them. This can spark their creativity and make them more enthusiastic about cooking.   Tip 3: Create a Fun, Stress-Free Environment Cooking should

Introduction to Me and Why I Started This Podcast Well, hello there and welcome to the very first episode of Cooking With Teens I'm so excited to get this podcast started. But before we dive in, you might be wondering, who is this person and why should I listen to her?   I’m a mom of five, with kids ranging from three to 21. I'm also an adoptive mom; my twin girls were adopted as teenagers and are now young adults. With this diverse family dynamic, I've got plenty of experience navigating the teenage years. Beyond parenting, I'm a total food lover. I come from a long line of food-obsessed folks, and I love developing recipes and even published a cookbook a few years ago. Cooking is my passion, and I've learned a lot from classic Food Network shows.   Now, let's dive into why cooking with your teens is so important and how it can benefit your family.   Why Cooking With Teens Is Important   Building Stronger Bonds Through Cooking Cooking with teens offers a unique opportunity to bond over shared activities. It’s a fantastic way to communicate and connect with your teenagers on a deeper level. When you cook or prep together as a routine, even if it’s just twice a week, your older children know they’re expected to help out in some way. This shared responsibility can lead to meaningful conversations and strengthen your relationship. When you're in the kitchen together, the atmosphere is relaxed and collaborative. You're not sitting across from each other at a table, which can sometimes feel confrontational. Instead, you're side by side, working towards a common goal. This setup naturally encourages open communication. Your teen might start talking about their day, their friends, or even their worries, simply because the environment feels safe and non-judgmental.   Teaching Valuable Life Skills Involving teens in the kitchen helps them learn essential life skills. Cooking is more than just following a recipe; it’s about understanding nutritional values, learning how to budget for groceries, and developing time management skills. When teens know how to cook, they are equipped with a critical life skill that will serve them well into adulthood. Knowing that your child can not only feed themselves but also nourish themselves is a gift. It’s empowering for them to create a meal from scratch and see the fruits of their labor. They learn about portion control, the importance of balanced meals, and how different ingredients work together to create delicious food.   Creating Lasting Memories and Teaching Responsibility Family meals are more than just food; they are about creating lasting memories. Cooking together can become a cherished tradition that teens carry into adulthood. When you cook together, you're making more than just a meal; you're making memories that will last a lifetime. It's those moments of laughter, the occasional kitchen mishaps, and the joy of creating something together that your teens will remember. Cooking together also teaches kids responsibility and gratitude. They learn that food doesn’t just miraculously appear on the dinner table. It takes effort, planning, and teamwork. This understanding helps them appreciate the food they eat and the effort that goes into preparing it. It also instills a sense of responsibility as they take on tasks in the kitchen, whether it’s chopping...