Fresh Herb Potato Salad with Lemon Yogurt Dressing

Fresh Herb Potato Salad with Lemon Yogurt Dressing

Fresh Herb Potato Salad with Lemon Yogurt Dressing

It’s the end of August, and my herb garden is booming! I am trying to make more recipes with all the fresh herbs I have, and this recipe came to mind! I wanted something high fiber, with a boost of protein, tons of fresh flavors, and summery!

So I made my super herby lemon potato salad.

spoon full of fresh herb potato salad with lemon yogurt dressing

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Seasonal for Spring, Summer, and Fall: Basically, anytime you have a bunch of fresh herbs you want to use in cooking!
Quick and Easy: Minimal clean up and Easy to throw together in 30 minutes or less
OMG, the Flavors: The combination of this creamy lemony sauce, fresh herbs, and creamy potatoes is Magical!
Less Mayo: The yogurt adds tang and creaminess while cutting back on mayo
Boost of Protein: A potato salad with a boost of protein for more protein-packed meals
Boost of fiber: with 3g of fiber per serving to help you feel fuller longer!
Uses whole foods: I love that this recipe uses foods I’ve grown in my garden, plus a couple of additional kitchen staples.
Nutrient power! Lots of nutrients in here from vitamin B12, D, E, K, C, potassium, choline, and antioxidants, this recipe is balanced and nutrient-dense.

Tools Needed

  • Large pot: to boil the potatoes (and optionally the eggs at the same time).

  • Medium saucepan or microwave-safe bowl: if cooking eggs separately

  • Colander: to drain potatoes

  • Cutting board + sharp knife: for herbs, celery, onions, and eggs

  • Mixing bowls (2): one for the dressing, one large for tossing the salad

  • Measuring cups + spoons: for yogurt, mayo, oil, lemon juice, and herbs – optional if you feel comfortable eyeballing

  • Whisk: for whisking the dressing

  • Wooden spoon or spatula: for gently folding everything together

  • Microplane or fine grater: for lemon zest

ingredients for Fresh Herb Potato Salad recipe

Fresh Summer Herb Potato Salad with Lemon Yogurt Dressing Ingredients: Ingredients You’ll Need

Baby Dutch Potatoes
These are small, creamy, and naturally buttery, which makes them perfect for potato salad. Leave the skins on for extra texture, color, and of course, one of my favorite nutrients, fiber!

Eggs
Hard-cooked eggs add richness, protein, and a little extra creaminess when folded in. You can cook them on the stovetop or even in the microwave if you want to save time.

Veggies
Celery gives that mush needed and satisfying crunch, while red onion and green onion tops add just the right amount of bite without overpowering the dressing.

I used red and white onions from my garden in this recipe but use what you have. Red onion is just what I recommend, shallots and sweet onions would be delicious too.

I also included some fresh pepperchini peppers from my garden just because! Give it extra vitamin C and peppery flavors.

Creamy Lemon Yogurt Dressing in a measuring cup in front of a kitchen garden

The Dressing
A mix of Greek yogurt and a little mayo keeps this salad creamy but lighter than the all-mayo versions. I use extra olive oil for an extra dose of flavor and healthy fats. Dijon mustard ties it all together.

Fresh Herbs (about ⅓ cup total)
This is where the magic happens! I won’t give conversions for dried herbs here, the point is to use fresh herbs! Use from your garden or from the store.

If you only have chives and basil, go with that. If you want to add parsley, toss it in. Use what you have, but keep in mind not all herbs are created equal:

  • Chives (use 2–4 tbsp): fresh, oniony, light. A safe herb to go heavy on.

  • Basil (use 1–2 tbsp): sweet and peppery, balances the lemon beautifully.

  • Thyme (use ½–1 tbsp): earthy and woody, just enough for depth.

  • Tarragon (use ½–1 tsp): anise/licorice note, delicate but strong — keep it subtle.

  • Mint (use ½–3 tsp): cooling and refreshing, a fun accent.

  • Oregano (use ½–2 tsp): robust, peppery, Mediterranean vibe.

  • Sage (¼–½ tsp, very finely minced): savory and piney, a little goes a long way.

Mix and match, but aim for about a third of a cup total. Remember, chives, basil, and parsley (I didn’t use but go for it) are your backbone herbs; thyme, oregano, mint, and tarragon are accents; and sage is best used sparingly.

Recipe Instructions and Tips

  1. Cook the potatoes: Place potatoes in a pot of cold salted water. Bring to a boil, then simmer 12–18 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and let steam-dry. While potatoes are cooking prep the remaining ingredients.
    • Cooking Potatoes Tip :
      You don’t want to overcook these potatoes. Start the potatoes in cold salted water before boiling for even cooking. Test the form before removing it from the water. The fork should slide in easily.

prepped ingredients for Fresh Herb Potato Salad

  1. Cook the eggs (two options):
    • Microwave method: Lightly grease a microwave-safe glass bowl or ramekin. Crack in eggs (one per ramekin for even cooking). Pierce yolks with a fork to prevent popping. Cover loosely and microwave at 50–60% power in 30–40 second bursts until firm, about 1½–2 minutes per egg. Let cool, then chop.
    • Hard-cooked method (stovetop): Place eggs in a saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook 9–10 minutes. Transfer to an ice bath until cool, then peel and chop.
  2. Make the dressing: Whisk together yogurt, mayo, olive oil, lemon juice/zest, Dijon, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Assemble: In a large bowl, toss warm potatoes with dressing. Gently fold in celery, onions, and herbs.
    • Herbs Tip: Balance the strong herbs. Herbs like sage, tarragon are bold, so use them sparingly. You don’t want their flavor to overpower the other ingredients.
  4. Add eggs: Carefully fold in chopped cooked eggs.
  5. Taste & serve: Adjust with extra lemon, salt, or herbs if desired. Serve warm or chilled.
    • Taste as you go: This recipe is to be made to your liking. I prefer a harder potato, so i stop the cooking process earlier. I also love lots of citrus, so I zest the entire lemon, and I love lots of herb flavors, but the licorice flavor in tarragon can be a bit much for people. Adjust as you seem fit!
    • And use what you have on hand! I decided to add some mild peppers from my garden last minute to make this an even more personal experience with my kitchen garden.
top down of herby potato salad

Storage Recommendations

This recipe keeps for 4-5 days in the fridge. Keep it in an air-tight container. For the best flavor, make it a day in advance and let the flavors meld. I couldnt wait, so i ate mine after a couple of hours of sitting in the fridge. Re-stir before serving. Get all of that dressing and herby goodness in every bite!

Serving Suggestions

As a side with Protein: I love this with a protein side like chicken salad (salad dinner!). Baked chicken, fish, or tofu.

Sharing: This is excellent at BBQ’s and picnics.

Think Breakfast: This makes for a tasty brunch side along side some quiche, smoked salmon, and fresh fruit.

Great for Meal Prep: I also love this for meal prep. Serving it as a lunch side with a sandwich, soup, or salad!

 

More Side Dish Recipes

Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe with Garlic Herb Butter

Easy Cheesy Corn Casserole: A Healthy Recipe without Jiffy

Easy Asparagus Pesto Orzo Salad: The Perfect Meal Prep Recipe

top down of herby potato salad

Fresh Herb Potato Salad with Lemon Yogurt Dressing

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
This creamy lemon herb potato salad with yogurt, mayo, eggs, and baby Dutch potatoes is a fresh, flavorful twist on the classic side dish.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course dinner, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 186 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • microwave-safe bowl for eggs
  • colander
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp Knife
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • silicone spatula
  • zester

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lbs baby dutch potatoes
  • 2 celery stalks
  • ¼ cup red onions
  • 2 tbsp green onions

dressing

  • ¼ cup whole milk greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp mayo
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
  • 2 tsp dijon mustard
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • salt and pepper to taste

Fresh Chopped Herbs (1/3 cup total)

  • 3 tbsp chives
  • 2 tbsp basil
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • ½ tsp tarragon
  • ½ tsp mint
  • ½ tsp oregano
  • ¼ tsp sage

Instructions
 

Cook the potatoes:

  • Place potatoes in a pot of cold salted water. Bring to a boil, then simmer 12–18 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and let steam-dry.

Cook the eggs (two options):

  • Microwave method: Lightly grease a microwave-safe glass bowl or ramekin. Crack in eggs (one per ramekin for even cooking). Pierce yolks with a fork to prevent popping. Cover loosely and microwave at 50–60% power in 30–40 second bursts until firm, about 1½–2 minutes per egg. Let cool, then chop.
  • Hard-cooked method (stovetop): Place eggs in a saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook 9–10 minutes. Transfer to an ice bath until cool, then peel and chop.

Make the dressing:

  • Whisk together yogurt, mayo, olive oil, lemon juice/zest, Dijon, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Assemble:

  • In a large bowl, toss warm potatoes with dressing. Gently fold in celery, onions, and herbs.

Add eggs:

  • Carefully fold in chopped cooked eggs.

Taste & serve:

  • Adjust with extra lemon, salt, or herbs if desired. Serve warm or chilled.

Notes

Nutrition Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimates and will vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes you use. For the most accurate results, calculate using your own preferred nutrition calculator.

Nutrition

Calories: 186kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 4gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 4mgSodium: 86mgPotassium: 564mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 238IUVitamin C: 29mgCalcium: 49mgIron: 1mg
Keyword potato
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
10 Shortcuts to Eat More Plant-Based (Without Giving Up Meat)

10 Shortcuts to Eat More Plant-Based (Without Giving Up Meat)

I have always been drawn to vegan and vegetarian eating. I love the foods, the creativity that happens in the kitchen, and how sustainable it is for the environment.

But I also enjoy the occasional burger and fries, sushi date nights, and a big bowl of beef pho when I’m sick. That’s why this approach to eating works so well for me!

Eating more plants is good for your health, your wallet, and the planet. And the best part? Eating more plants without totally giving up meat is much less daunting than going fully vegan or vegetarian. 

You might want to decrease your carbon footprint, eat fewer animals for ethical reasons, or simply eat healthier, all of those are wonderful goals! The good news is you don’t have to completely cut meat out to do this.

If you’re curious about adding more plants to your meals without giving up meat, these 10 easy shortcuts are for you!

1) Prep ahead for easy wins! 

Wash and cut up veggies and fruit, make a healthy dip, or make hard-boiled eggs. That way, grabbing something nourishing is just as easy as reaching for a bag of chips. 

Roast a sheet pan of veggies and cook a pot of beans to start the week with easy additions to meals. 

Mexican Street Corn Soup in a bowl with toppings. Sitting on a white napkin with garnishes to the left.

2) Plan ahead (A little or a lot!)

A loose meal plan or even just knowing what protein you plan to use for the week such as tofu, tempeh, canned tuna, salmon, or chicken. This makes it easier to add more plant-based sides, whole grains, and beans. 

Check out this article on meal planning!

3) Stock easy pantry staples

Keep canned beans, dried lentils, protein pasta, quinoa, frozen fruit and veggies on hand. They are an easy addition to plant-forward meals! 

Check out my article on Pantry Staples!

4) Find what you love

I love protein pastas like barilla Protein+ and Brami, they use bean flour in addition to semolina for a high protein pasta. 

If you love hummus, use it instead of mayo on a sandwich or wrap, in addition to a dip for crackers and carrots. If you like pizza, try adding some of your favorite veggies before baking that frozen dinner. I love to add mushrooms, sliced tomatoes, or peppers to mine! 

For even more veggies and to make the pizza stretch to another meal, I pair it with a simple salad. If I am short on time, I’ll even use a salad kit like Taylor Farms Everything Chopped Kit. 

5) Swap, don’t eliminate! 

Try using half ground meat (beef, chicken, or turkey) and half plant ingredients. My favorites are riced cauliflower, beans, lentils, mushrooms, and eggplant. This works well in tacos, chili, pasta sauces, sloppy joes, and even lettuce wraps.

If I choose to make a meat dish and want it to be super easy, I’ll grab a pound of ground turkey or chicken and bulk it up with extra veggies. It makes terrific leftovers!

Butter Bean Curry with Lentils in a large shallow cast iron casserole dish with toast, herbs, and Arome spices and oil as props

6) Fiber is your friend

Whole grains like quinoa, bulgur, and farro are all plant-based, filling, and versatile! Make them the base of a bowl or add them to a salad for a quick, easy, and filling meal.

 I like to cook a batch early in the week to make varieties of grain bowls such as greek inspired, south-west, or buffalo chicken Caesar if i want a little chicken. 

7) More soups and stews please! 

Lentil, minestrone, and black bean soups are naturally plant-forward. You can add a little shredded chicken if you like, without it being the star ingredient! Moreover, soups and stews are great for meal prep, make a big pot and enjoy it for days or freeze some of the leftovers. 

8) Start the day plant-based! 

Ever heard of vegan before 6? It’s a book written by Mark Bittman that talks about starting your day vegan and ending it with a meat, if you like. It’s a great way to eat more plant-based foods without sacrificing the meat and meat dishes you enjoy. 

Some healthy options to start the day include overnight oats, smoothies, avocado toast, or yogurt parfaits. These get you starting the day off right with out feeling like you have sacrificed anything! Of course, feel free to indulge in some bacon and eggs from time to time! 

And that leads right into the next idea!

Two glass jars of coconut chia pudding topped with cherry lime jam, each with a spoon, served on a plate for a simple and inviting presentation.

9) Stay flexible and keep what you love

Eating more plants doesn’t mean giving up burgers, pizza, pasta, or your favorite dishes. It’s all about balance! This means adjusting the portions so meat isn’t always the main event, and adding more plant-based options to your diet!

10 ) Keep things simple (at least to start)

Grain bowls, sheet pan meals, and one-pot dishes that are plant-forward make for easy, quick, and low clean-up meals. 

Adding 1 or 2 of these a week is less daunting, and you can grow from there. Make an obtainable, realistic goal and try it for a couple of weeks. Lifestyle changes don’t happen overnight! 

southwest sauce with diced roasted sweet potatoes

Wrapping Up

These shortcuts don’t have to be all or nothing. Start slow! Pick one or two to incorporate into your lifestyle today. Just one small change can get the ball rolling toward a healthier tomorrow.

Healthy eating takes practice and time before you really feel the changes, so don’t give up after a week. And don’t feel guilty if you enjoy pizza with cheese and pepperoni, that still fits! Just balance it out with healthier options the next day or later in the week, depending on what works best for you.

Remember, this is YOUR life. Make healthy eating work for you, not what works for someone else.

Sarah in nature with her hands up

 

 



Easy Peach Bread Recipe Made with Less Sugar

Easy Peach Bread Recipe Made with Less Sugar

Easy Peach Bread Recipe Made with Fresh Peaches and Less Sugar

This is a quick bread recipe you will want to add to your rotation! This recipe is easier than making a homemade peach pie and an excellent way to use fresh summer peaches.
I went peach picking and made a bunch of peach recipes! Two bowls no special equipment needed. And is anything better than that sweet aroma of the best peach bread swirling around your house?

peach trees at u-pick peaches

U-Pick Peaches 

I went peach picking this month!

You’ve gotta be in touch with the farmers to catch it because peach season is short and sweet.

I picked a bucket of Reliance peaches and used them in some of my favorite peach recipes.

  • Snacked on them fresh (nothing beats that juicy first bite)
  • Made a small batch of freezer jam
  • Froze sliced peaches for smoothies, overnight oats, and oatmeal
  • Baked multiple loaves of this homemade peach bread
  • Whipped up goat cheese with peaches and tomatoes
  • Threw one into a batch of backyard salsa

There’s something so satisfying about picking your own food. It gets you outside, supports local farms, and gives you the freshest produce possible.

Ingredients In This Peach Bread Recipe

all-purpose flour (240g)

baking powder

coconut sugar (50g)

salt

ground cinnamon

egg

whole milk (120ml) – another plant based milk is a great alternative

vanilla extract – usually measured with love

butter, melted and slightly cooled (113g) – you can use vegetable oil or coconut oil if you prefer

juicy peach chunks, chopped or mashed (300–320g) – In a pinch you can use canned peaches but I love this recipe during peach season using the freshest peaches possible.

Optional Ingredients:

almond extract

other warming spiced like cardamom or nutmeg, I like cinnamon for this recipe
peel your ripe peaches if you like, I prefer to keep things easy and the peach skin adds extra fiber and nutrients.

wet batter in a loaf pan for peach bread

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Tip: Lining with parchment also makes it easier to lift the loaf out of the pan after baking.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, coconut sugar, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined. Tip: If you prefer a sweeter bread, feel free to add an additional 1/4 cup of coconut sugar or brown sugar to the flour mixture.

In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then stir in the milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
Tip: Make sure the butter is slightly cooled before adding it to avoid curdling the egg.

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing. A few lumps are fine and will help keep the bread tender instead of dense.

Gently fold in the chopped or mashed peaches until they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake the peach bread for 60 to 65 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

Tip A: Start checking for doneness 5-10 minutes before you think the bread will finish. Insert a toothpick into the center — it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter. For the most reliable results, use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 200°F (93°C) when fully baked.
Tip B: If the top starts to brown too quickly before the center is fully cooked, tent the loaf loosely with foil for the final 10 minutes.

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tip: Allowing it to cool fully helps the structure set and prevents it from becoming gummy inside. I know, it’s so hard to wait!

golden brown peach loaf in a pan lined with parchment paper

Storage Suggestions

Let the peach bread cool completely before storing. Wrapping or sealing it while still warm can cause condensation and make the loaf soggy.

Room temperature: Store the loaf in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil for up to 2 days. Keep it in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight.

Refrigerator: For slightly longer storage, refrigerate the bread in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The texture will firm up a bit in the fridge, but it will still be moist when warmed.

Freezer: Wrap the fully cooled loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months.

• To thaw, leave the bread at room temperature for a few hours or overnight. For individual slices, you can reheat directly from frozen in the microwave (about 20–30 seconds) or toaster oven.

• For best quality, freeze in slices so you can pull out one serving at a time.

How to Serve

My favorite way to enjoy this recipe or any of my sweet breads is paired with a quiet moment on the porch with my cat and my journal.

Breakfast: Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or tea.

Snack: Serve it chilled or at room temperature with an iced tea or Arnold Palmer on a hot summer day.

Dessert: Warm up a slice and top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream

a slice of peach bread with a pat of butter and sliced peaches on a stoneware plate.

Peach Muffin Option

Want to turn this recipe into peach muffins instead of a loaf? It works great.

• Prepare the batter as directed, then divide it evenly among 12 greased or lined muffin cups.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 22 to 26 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
• Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allowing the muffins to cool slightly helps them firm up, making it easier to remove the wrappers without tearing.

Optional: Sprinkle a little coconut sugar or cinnamon on top before baking for added flavor and texture, if desired.

golden brown peach loaf in a pan lined with parchment paper

Easy Peach Bread Made with Less Sugar

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
This easy peach bread is light, moist, and naturally sweet, made with fresh peaches and less sugar for a wholesome twist on a classic treat.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 261 kcal

Equipment

  • 2 mixing bowls
  • whisk or spatula
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • loaf pan 9x5 inch
  • parchment paper optional
  • toothpick
  • cooling rack

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • ¼ cup coconut sugar
  • ½ tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ cup milk
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup melted butter
  • 2 cups juicy peaches, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard 9x5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
    Tip: Lining with parchment also makes it easier to lift the loaf out of the pan after baking.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, coconut sugar, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined.
  • In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then stir in the milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
  • Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing. A few lumps are fine and will help keep the bread tender instead of dense.
  • Gently fold in the chopped or mashed peaches until they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  • Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  • Bake the peach bread for 60 to 65 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
  • Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Nutrition

Calories: 261kcalCarbohydrates: 33gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 32mgSodium: 364mgPotassium: 109mgFiber: 2gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 505IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 90mgIron: 2mg
Keyword easy, peach
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Easy Homemade Cherry Jam without Pectin (Small Batch)

Easy Homemade Cherry Jam without Pectin (Small Batch)

Easy Homemade Cherry Jam without Pectin (Small Batch)

This is a no Pectin, no canning recipe! I like to call recipes like this homemade freezer jam because I use my freezer to preserve the small jars! I don’t use pectin, water bath, or any canning equipment. Rather, I cook down the fruit, in this case cherries, pick my citrus, this this case lime, and add a touch of sugar. Sometimes I may include other ingredients such as homemade vanilla extract, fresh ground nutmeg, or even some chia seeds!

This recipe could also be seen as a preserves or rather cherry Preserves recipe. But I like the cozy thought of eating a delicious jam, on a toasted peeve of sourdough bread. So, I refer to this as a jam, but call it whatever you wish!

More Reasons Why I Love This Recipe

Got cherry trees? This is one of the easiest way to use up lots of cherries! During cherry season you can take simple ingredients like fresh ripe cherries, citrus and a bit of sugar and make the best jam, better than anything you can get in the store! I love to make batches of fruit freezer jams, such as cherry lime, peach, and strawberry rhubarb, freeze it and enjoy it year round.

So good with sour cherries! This is a great recipe for sour cherries. you can customize the recipe to make it your own by changing the amount of sugar per your taste preferences!

The best for brunches and gatherings. It’s also wonderful to bring to a family gathering! It’s so easy to pick if a fresh loaf of bread from your local bakery, slice it up, and serve it with homemade jam and butter! My sister recently made a batch to bring to the beach, I thought about it but I had precious space in my luggage due to flying across the country. We ate up her jam within days. Such an easy way to bring the coziness of home to your vacation home!

close up of coconut chia pudding in a glass with a spoon on a plate

Tools you will need

  • Cherry pitter – I highly recommend using one of these because it makes removing pits from fresh cherries so much easier.

    • No cherry pitter? Try household alternatives:

      • Metal straw or chopstick: push it through the stem end into an empty bottle or your hand-held cherry – Source: The Pioneer Woman

      • Piping tip: place a small round piping tip (~ 3/16″–¼”) over your finger, then press the cherry’s stem end down to pop the pit out – Source: Food Network

  • Medium saucepan – For simmering the cherries, sugar, and lime juice

  • Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula – To stir the jam as it cooks

  • Potato masher or fork – To gently mash the cherries as they soften

  • 16 oz freezer‑safe mason jar with straight sides (wide mouth) – Such as Ball’s freezer‑safe jam jar; the straight-sided design prevents cracking during freezing.

  • Funnel (optional) – Helps transfer the jam into the jar with less mess

  • Clean towel or paper towel – For wiping the jar rim before sealing

deep red sweet pitted cherries in pot

Cherry Lime Spoon Jam Ingredients

Cherries: I like using dark red sweet cherries for a rich, jammy flavor or tart cherries for a brighter, tangier result. Both work well, and frozen cherries are fine if thawed first.

White sugar or maple syrup: Sugar helps the jam set and stay safe in the fridge. Use white sugar for a classic result or maple syrup for a softer set and more natural flavor.

Lime juice: Adds acidity for balance and helps preserve the jam. Lemon juice works too if that’s what you have on hand.

Other Possible Ingredient Additions

Natural pectin: Helps the jam set firmer.
Chia seeds: Adds fiber and thickens naturally.
Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet note.

Almond extract: Just a drop adds a cherry pie vibe.
Cinnamon: For a hint of spice.
Other fruits: Try mixing in berries or stone fruit.

step by step showing cherry lime jam being cooked in a pot

How To Make This Recipe

1. Prep the Fruit
Wash and pit your cherries if you haven’t already. You can roughly chop or halve them to help them break down faster during cooking.

2. Combine and Cook
Add the pitted cherries, sugar, and lime juice to a medium saucepan. Stir everything together and set over medium-high heat.

3. Simmer and Mash
As the mixture begins to heat, the cherries will release their juices. Simmer gently, stirring often to prevent sticking or burning. Use a potato masher or fork to mash the fruit to your desired texture.

4. Cook Until Thickened
Continue simmering until the jam thickens slightly and looks glossy. This usually takes about 15–20 minutes. The hot jam will thicken more as it cools.

5. Jar It Up
Remove the pan from heat and let the jam cool slightly. Carefully ladle or pour the jam into a clean, freezer-safe, wide-mouth 16 oz mason jar. Leave about ½ inch of headspace at the top to allow for expansion in the freezer.

6. Wipe and Seal
Wipe the rim clean and secure the lid. Let the jar cool completely at room temperature before moving it to the fridge or freezer.

Deep red sweet Cherry Jam in Jars outside

Recommended Storage

Here are some tips to help with storage.

  • Fridge: Store in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks. Two weeks is on the safe side. Mine rarely make it to 15 days, I like to keep them in 8oz mason jars. Always use a clean spoon to avoid introducing bacteria, and discard if you notice mold, bubbling, or an off smell.

  • Freezer: For longer storage, transfer to a freezer-safe, straight-sided mason jar (like Ball’s 8 oz or 16 oz freezer jars). Leave ½ inch of headspace to allow for expansion during freezing. This helps prevent jars from cracking.

  • Thawing: When ready to use, move the jar to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.

Two glass jars of coconut chia pudding topped with cherry lime jam, each with a spoon, served on a plate for a simple and inviting presentation.

How To Serve This Delicious Cherry Jam

My favorite way to enjoy this jam is with fresh bread and butter, but I’ve used it in many other ways too.

Try with:

  • Use as a Cherry pie filling: with even more whole fruits

  • Slathered atop scones or biscuits: Try my Strawberry Cornbread Drop Biscuits
  • Spooned over ice cream, yogurt, oatmeal, or chia pudding: for a sweet-tart topping

  • The best peanut butter and jelly sandwiches: a major upgrade from store-bought jam

  • Dropped over warm pancakes: especially fun for tiny pancakes!
  • Dripping over some cheese atop a delicious cracker: sweet, salty, and perfect for snacking

Recipe Tips

Keep in mind, this recipe is SUPER customizable. There is no exact science to freezer jam, maybe why I love it so much. Most of the time, I go by vibes.

  • Use more or less sugar to your liking
  • Taste Your Fruit! The best way to make sure your jam will taste amazing is use amazing tasting fruit! always taste the fruit
  • Know that fresh fruits or frozen works for this recipe. You can even freeze your fruit then turn it into jam later if you like
  • Make a small batch for more varieties of freezer jam all year long – blueberry, blackberry, currant, cherry, rhubarb, strawberry. Better than anything you would find at your local grocery store.
  • Cooking time is not exact. I go by vibes but the time range I provided is about what you need. Feel free to adjust that to your liking much like the other ingredients.

More Homemade Jam Recipes

How To Make Rhubarb Jam: An Easy Small Batch Recipe

How To Make Strawberry Sauce From Frozen Strawberries

How To Make Homemade Any Fruit Jam in Minutes

Deep red sweet Cherry Jam in Jars outside

Small Batch Cherry Lime Jam

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
A small-batch cherry lime jam made without pectin—sweet, tart, and perfect for spooning over yogurt, toast, or desserts.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course sauce
Cuisine American
Servings 8

Ingredients
  

  • cup cherries, pitted
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp lime juice

Instructions
 

Cook the Fruit

  • Add pitted, chopped cherries, sugar, and lime juice to a saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally as it heats.

Simmer and Mash

  • Once the cherries release their juices, reduce to a simmer. Mash with a fork or potato masher and continue cooking 10–20 minutes, stirring often, until thick and glossy.

Cool and Store

  • Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Pour into a clean 16 oz freezer-safe jar, leaving ½ inch at the top. Wipe the rim, seal, and let cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Coconut Milk Chia Pudding (Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free)

Coconut Milk Chia Pudding (Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free)

I make chia pudding a lot, usually by eyeballing the ingredients. It often turns out more liquidy, which I don’t mind since I like drinking it down! It’s a great snack or easy breakfast prep. My go-to combo is 2% Fairlife or Darigold milk (14g protein per cup), chia seeds, and whatever fruit, jam, or nuts I have on hand, sometimes a little cocoa powder too.

This recipe came about when I needed a dairy-, egg-, and gluten-free dish for a summer-themed ladies lunch. It was peak cherry season here in the Gorge, and cherry stands were everywhere! I thought about a salad, but I really wanted to bring a sweet treat. The cherry-lime combo gives cherry limeade vibes. Plus, coconut pairs so well with limes and cherries!

I’m also thrilled to have finally nailed the golden ratio for a pudding-like texture maybe now I’ll eyeball it a little more accurately!

Two glass jars of coconut chia pudding topped with cherry lime jam, each with a spoon, served on a plate for a simple and inviting presentation.

Important Recipe Tip!

When I first made this recipe, I didn’t use a blender, just a whisk to smooth out the coconut milk. None of the recipes I looked at online said to do any other steps.

The chia pudding turned out edible, but there were a tiny chunks of coconut fat throughout, which was kinda weird. If you prefer a creamier texture, like me, try my blender method to fully combine the liquid ingredients before stirring in the chia seeds.

ingredients laid out for coconut chia pudding with cherry lime jam

Coconut Chia Pudding Recipe Ingredients

This recipe calls for simple ingredients and with a bit of time will form up in the fridge.

  • A can full-fat coconut milk: This ingredient aids in the creamy texture.

    • Coconut milk tip: You can substitute canned coconut milk with 1 part coconut cream and 1–2 parts water. Use less water for a richer, thicker pudding or more water for a lighter texture. Be sure to blend well for a smooth, even mixture before adding chia seeds.

spoon with cups of coconut fat throughout chia pudding

  • Pure maple syrup or sweetener of choice such as a drizzle of honey, or agave nectar

  • Pure vanilla extract: I like to use my homemade vanilla extract but whatever you got is fine, or you can omit this ingredient.

  • A splash of water

  • Chia seeds: The main ingredient!

  • Pinch of salt (optional)

mixed coconut chia pudding with side of cherry jam

Coconut Chia Pudding Instructions

  1. Add the coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla, water, and salt to a blender and blend until completely smooth.

Tip – The Blender Method: Blending the liquid ingredients, especially the coconut milk, helps create a smooth, consistent base. Canned coconut milk often separates, so blending ensures it’s fully emulsified before adding chia seeds.

  1. Pour the blended mixture into a bowl or jar. Stir in the chia seeds until evenly combined.

  2. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.

  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until thick and creamy.

coconut chia pudding in a glass bowl. 1 image before the chia thickens up, the 2nd is after

Serve chilled with cherry lime sauce or your favorite toppings.

Topping Suggestions for Your Homemade Chia Puddings

  • Strawberry Sauce or homemade “spoon” jams. Spoon jams just mean they are small batch and might not be made with pectin and less sugar. I often freeze these spoon jams and change the name to freezer jam!

    • Here is my recipe for the Cherry Lime Jam shown in the pictures.
  • Your favorite storebought jam

  • Fresh fruit such as fresh berries, tropical fruits like fresh pineapple

  • Coconut flakes, especially good for us coconut lovers

  • Nuts and seeds

  • Chocolate chips for more decadence!

  • Peanut butter or nut butter. I love this swirled in with the chia for an even more nutty and creamy pudding.

Pair This Pudding for a Healthy Breakfast and Balanced Meal

Here are some of my favorite chia pudding pairings when I want a little more substance with my snack or meal.

  • Whole grain toast with nut butter or avocado – adds fiber and healthy fats to keep you satisfied longer.
  • Whole grain toast with a soft- or hard-cooked egg, cottage cheese, or ricotta – for a protein boost alongside complex carbs.
  • Layer the chia pudding with Greek yogurt – to increase the protein and make it extra creamy. You could use coconut yogurt for a vegan alternative.
  • Layered or mixed in with overnight oats – adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Top with or serve alongside a handful of fruit – for natural sweetness, fiber, and extra vitamins and minerals.

close up of coconut chia pudding in a glass with a spoon on a plate

Meal Prepping & Storage

This is an excellent recipe for make-ahead breakfasts! And I love this recipe because you can change up the recipe per your liking, plus, chia pudding is perfect for meal prep!

Once mixed, let it chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight to thicken. Portion it into individual jars or containers for easy grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks throughout the week.

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

  • Toppings: Add fresh fruit, spoon jam, granola, or nuts just before serving to keep textures fresh.

  • Batch Tip: You can double or triple the recipe if you’re prepping for multiple people or days.

More Recipes You Will Love

Two glass jars of coconut chia pudding topped with cherry lime jam, each with a spoon, served on a plate for a simple and inviting presentation.

Creamy Coconut Chia Pudding

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
Creamy coconut chia pudding is a delicious breakfast, snack, or dessert. I love to layer it with homemade jam, nuts, coconut flakes, and granola!
Prep Time 5 minutes
chill time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 5 minutes
Course Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Mixing Bowl
  • spoon

Ingredients
  

Coconut Chia Pudding

  • 13.5 oz full-fat coconut milk 1 can
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp water
  • ½ cup chia seeds
  • pinch of salt kosher salt

Instructions
 

Make the Coconut Chia Pudding

  • Add the coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla, water, and salt to a blender and blend until completely smooth.
    Tip: Blending helps emulsify the coconut milk for a consistent base.
  • Pour the mixture into a bowl or jar. Stir in the chia seeds until evenly combined. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until thick and creamy.

Assemble and Serve

  • Spoon the chilled chia pudding into bowls or jars. Top with jam, nuts, granola, or enjoy this on its own.
Keyword easy, healthy
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!