Please enjoy this re-air of our most popular episode on the podcast where 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.

Connect with Anca:

Website: www.thebuttertable.com

Instagram: @the.buttertable

Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the Kitchen

In this episode, we're tackling the challenge of preparing quick and easy dinners during the busy month of December. With all the hustle and bustle, these meals are designed to be cozy, stress-free, and perfect for hectic evenings when you don't want to spend hours in the kitchen. Whether you're looking for something hearty to warm you up or a simple, delicious dish your teens can help with, these meals are sure to fit the bill. From loaded baked potatoes to creamy pasta and even a hearty bean dish, these ideas will save you time while still delivering comforting flavors. Tune in for some easy-to-make meals that will keep your family satisfied during the busy month of December!

Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the Kitchen

Connect with Anca:

Website: www.thebuttertable.com

Instagram: @the.buttertable

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 Kitchen

Connect with Anca:

Website: www.thebuttertable.com

Instagram: @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 Kitchen

Connect with Anca:

Website: www.thebuttertable.com

Instagram: @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 Kitchen

Connect with Anca:

Website: www.thebuttertable.com

Instagram: @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 prep
• These sides are easy to make with minimal ingredients but pack a punch in flavor
• Many 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 Kitchen

Connect with Anca:

Website: www.thebuttertable.com

Instagram: @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 Kitchen

Connect with Anca:

Website: www.thebuttertable.com

Instagram: @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 Kitchen

Connect with Anca:

Website: www.thebuttertable.com

Instagram: @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 Kitchen

Connect with Anca:

Website: www.thebuttertable.com

Instagram: @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 Pans

Free Download: 21 Tips to Get Your Teen in the Kitchen

Connect with Anca:

Website: www.thebuttertable.com

Instagram: @the.buttertable