Emily Maxson Whips Up Delicious and Healthy Recipes on KARE 11

GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. — As we step into 2026, many of us are embracing health goals that focus on nourishing our bodies through wholesome, home-cooked meals. Emily Maxson, an inspiring author and blogger, joined KARE 11 Saturday to share two delightful recipes that not only taste fantastic but also align with various dietary needs, promoting gut health and overall wellness.

Embracing Home Cooking

Cooking at home provides a unique opportunity to control the ingredients we consume, making it an excellent starting point for achieving our health objectives. Whether you’re interested in increasing your fiber intake, losing weight, or simply enjoying hearty, flavorful meals, Emily’s recipes present a practical and delicious approach.

Lentil Chili: A Cozy Comfort

Ingredients & Preparation

Emily’s Lentil Chili is the star of the show — a warm and comforting dish perfect for those chilly winter days. By replacing ground beef with lentils, Emily creates a vegan-friendly alternative that still delivers on texture and flavor.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2-3 cups cooked lentils
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons sea salt
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon chipotle powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can drained pinto beans or 1 3/4 cups soaked and cooked beans

Cooking Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Incorporate minced garlic and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
4. Sprinkle in sea salt, chili powder, cumin, chipotle powder, and black pepper; stir well.
5. Add cooked lentils, pinto beans, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes.
6. Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
7. Serve hot, topped with coconut yogurt and chopped onions for an extra touch.

This Lentil Chili recipe is not just satisfying but also aligns with various dietary preferences, making it a universal favorite.

Kale and Cashew Salad with Maple Tahini Dressing

A Fresh, Crunchy Delight

If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant side dish or main course, look no further than Emily’s Kale and Cashew Salad. With the perfect balance of crunch and flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon minced serrano pepper (seeds removed)
• 1 cup dry roasted cashews, chopped
• Maple Tahini Dressing (recipe below)

Salad Preparation:

1. In a large salad bowl, combine kale, cabbage, mint, cilantro, green onions, and minced serrano pepper.
2. Toss well, ensuring the serrano is evenly distributed to spread out its heat.
3. Add chopped cashews and toss again for a satisfying crunch.
4. Drizzle on the maple tahini dressing to taste and mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Maple Tahini Dressing Recipe

This creamy dressing is the secret ingredient that elevates the salad, combining rich tahini with the sweetness of maple syrup.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon tamari (or soy sauce)
• 4 teaspoons fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3-4 tablespoons cold water (to adjust consistency)

Dressing Instructions:

1. Place tahini, maple syrup, minced garlic, tamari, and lime juice into a mini food processor; blend until well combined.
2. While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil.
3. Gradually add cold water until you achieve your desired consistency.
4. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

A Commitment to Healthy Eating

Emily Maxson’s recipes are more than just meals; they are an invitation to embrace cooking as a way to nurture our bodies. With the combination of hearty lentil chili and a refreshing salad, you can enjoy a nutritious yet satisfying meal any day of the week. These dishes not only promote well-being but also add a delightful touch to your dining experience.