These 10 Mood-Boosting Foods Will Literally Make You Happier

food as a mood booster

We all know that certain foods can make us feel energized or sluggish, and that's because what we eat can trigger chemical reactions in the neurotransmittersthroughout our brain, heightening or lowering our mood. New research from Canadian-based meal kit delivery service Chef's Platehas revealed the top 10 mood-boosting foods, and what it found is that pulse-based diets are best for keeping us in our happy place. Pulses include beans, lentils, and chickpeas, or low-fat sources of protein and fiber.

“Pulses provide a sustained source of energy to your muscles,” says food and health expert Dr. Phil Chilibeck. "The slow rise in blood sugar won’t make you feel as tired as you would after eating carbohydrates. A slower increase in blood sugar levels will leave you feeling less fatigued after meals and provide more energy for muscles and your brain."

The high protein levels in these foods, he adds, have a stimulatory effect on the brain, which helps give you a mood boost. And for anyone interested ingut-friendly meals: “While helping to control body weight, the fiber in pulses also provides nourishment for the beneficial bacteria in your gut (i.e. pulses act as a prebiotic), which helps with overall health,” he adds. Healthy body, happy mind.

Here are 10 foods to mix into your meal planning with recipes from Chef's Plate to take the guesswork out of cooking them. Scroll down and have a great day!

    Black Beans

    Cuban Black Bean Bowl With Mango Salsa and Quinoa

    What's great about beans is that they can help to slow down how your body’s glycogen levels respond to a meal, so you maintain steady energy levels. Think no post-lunch slump. Plus, with a healthy mix of plant-based protein and fiber, beans can help you to stay fuller for longer. (via Chef's Plate)

    Ingredients (converted from Canadian metric system)

    • 3/4 cup of quinoa
    • 1 mango
    • 1 lime
    • 1 jalapeño
    • 1 tbsp chili-cumin spice blend
    • 4 oz canned corn
    • 1 1/2 cups black beans
    • 1 1/2 tsp cilantro
    • 1 cup sweet bell pepper
    • 1 tsp garlic
    • 1/2 cup red onion

    Directions:

    1. In a strainer, rinse quinoa. To a medium pot, add quinoa, 2 cups water (3 cups water for 4 portions) and 1/4 tsp salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium and cook for 10-12 min, stirring occasionally, until quinoa is until tender but still firm to the bite. Strain, then return to the same pot, off heat. Cover and set aside for 5 min, then fluff with a fork.
    2. Meanwhile, wash and dry all produce. Peel and cut three-quarters of the onion into 1/4-inch slices. Cut remaining onion into 1/4-inch pieces, then place in a medium bowl. Peel and mince or grate garlic. Cut mango into 1/4-inch pieces, then place in the bowl with the onions. Cut pepper into 1/2-inch pieces. Finely chop jalapeño, removing seeds for less heat. (NOTE: We suggest using gloves when prepping jalapeño!)
    3. Drain corn and pat dry with paper towels. In a large non-stick pan, heat 2 tsp oil (double for 4 portions) over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, add half the corn kernels (use all for 4 portions) and cook for 4-5 min, covered, carefully swirling the pan, until corn is dark golden brown. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer to bowl with the onions and mangoes.
    4. In the same pan, heat 1 tbsp oil (double for 4 portions) over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, add the sliced onions, peppers and half the jalapeño. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 4-6 min, stirring occasionally, until tender. Reduce heat to medium, then add half the garlic and Chili-Cumin Spice Blend. Cook for 30 sec, stirring to toast. Add black beans with their can liquid and cook for 5-6 min, roughly mashing some of the beans, until thickened.* Season with salt and pepper.
    5. Meanwhile, zest and juice half the lime. Cut remaining lime into wedges. Roughly chop cilantro. To the medium bowl with the charred corn, add the lime juice, lime zest, half the cilantro, remaining jalapeño, remaining garlic and 2 tsp oil (double for 4 portions). Season with salt and stir to combine.
    6. Divide quinoa between bowls. Top with black beans, then mango salsa. Sprinkle remaining cilantro over top. Serve lime wedges alongside. Enjoy!

    Cannellini Beans

    North Indian Curried Beans With Rice & Garlic Naan

    High in protein and naturally low in fat, sugar, and salt, cannellini beans help to absorb the dish’s flavors while providing a guaranteed source of energy.

    Lentils

    Lentil Bolognese with Garlic Toast

    Our favorite superfood, lentils contain vitamin B6, low levels of which have been connected to depression. So get your lentils in!

    Chickpeas

    Falafel-Spiced Chickpeas With Couscous Tabouli

    An ideal alternative to meat, protein-rich chickpeas contribute to healthy muscle growth by providing a strong source of energy production.

    Salmon and Sesame Seeds 

    Sesame Crusted Salmon

    Loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is packed full of nutrients that provide energy and can even help to tackle feelings of depression and anxiety. By coating the fatty fish in sesame seeds, the tryptophan-rich seeds support serotonin production, which can help to relieve tension and relax the body.

    Brown Rice

    Miso-Curry Chicken Stir-Fry

    Fiber-rich brown rice can help to release the feel-good chemical serotonin for a mood boost. Bonus: brown rice contains even more nutritional value than its processed white counterpart.

    Sweet Potato

    Sweet Potato Shepherd's Pie

    With a healthy supply of magnesium, iron and vitamin C, these serotonin-producing, antioxidant-rich potatoes can help to enhance both your mood and energy levels.

    Avocado

    Smoky Shrimp & Avocado Chimichurri

    Brimming with healthy fats, avocados help your body absorb nutrients, protecting against any harmful free-radicals. Add in vitamin C and antioxidants, and you have a fruit practically designed to boost both well-being and mood.

    Eggs

    Steak And Hash

    Get a steady source of energy by incorporating vitamin B6-rich eggs into your daily diet. They aren't just for breakfast anymore!

    Follow us on Pinterest for more recipe inspo!

    Check out Brit + Co cooking classes for a recipe refresh.

    Ask anyone who’s found success in their career, hobby, or health – they’ll admit that they didn’t find it overnight. Instead, they’ll attribute their achievements to a simple concept: consistency.

    Being consistent is way easier said than done, but it becomes less daunting when you’ve got someone by your side to keep you accountable.

    Read on to learn more about Zabit, a new habit coaching app that empowers you to achieve your goals with the help of an expert personal coach.

    Zabit

    That’s why Roddy Lindsay founded Zabit, a new habit coaching service that relies on pairing clients with personal coaches – AKA the ultimate accountability buddies!

    Whether you want to improve your workout plan, decrease your use of social media, limit your alcohol consumption, or get better sleep, Zabit coaches are there to motivate you toward your goals with one-on-one personalized messages, just like you're texting your best friend.

    Zabit

    “Zabit’s mission is to make accountability universal and affordable. Adding accountability to everyday habits to make them long-lasting should be as easy as ordering an Uber,” said Lindsay, founder and CEO of Zabit. “By combining the empathy of human coaches with the ubiquity of mobile technology, Zabit is forging a new paradigm for behavior change.”

    Zabit

    Zabit’s personal coaches are psychologists, wellness professionals, and advanced clinical psychology students with at least three years of training, so they’re equipped with all the right knowledge to help you stay on track with your goals, no matter what they are.

    When it comes to your personal goals, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Pair with a Zabit coach today – you can get started now with a free 2-week trial. From there, plans start at just $8.99 per week.

    Subscribe to our newsletter for more tips on achieving your goals!

    If there's one thing I love to see, it's celebrities going makeup-free. And I'll celebrate it every single time! In addition to Drew Barrymore taking her makeup off on live TV (and throwing her extensions on the ground) and Millie Bobby Brown showing off her acne in selfies, Lady Gaga loves to go makeup-free. Remember when she performed at the Oscars with no makeup and ripped jeans?! Well the actress and singer just posted another adorable selfie without a stitch of makeup.

    Here's what Lady Gaga had to say about "Die With A Smile" alongside her no-makeup selfie.

    Lady Gaga is "so grateful" the song is #1.

    To celebrate "Die With A Smile" (her song with Bruno Mars) hitting number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, Lady Gaga posted a photo of her laying in the grass with a huge grin on her face — and without any makeup.

    "Thank you to all of the monsters and hooligans for helping make 'Die With A Smile' #1 on the Billboard Hot 100! We love you and are so grateful," she says in the post. "Having multiple songs of mine hit #1 across three decades feels surreal, and I am overwhelmed by the love and support you have shown me from the beginning. I have so much more in store for you and can’t wait to share it."

    Friends and fans flooded the comments with everyone from Noah Cyrus saying, "you’re so gorgeous," to a fan account adding, "Thank you for your art! So proud of you and Bruno. You deserve this!"

    And she loved recording it with Bruno Mars!

    The song was released on August 16, and in a statement to Page Six, Lady Gaga praised Bruno Mars as a collaborator. “Bruno and I have a lot of mutual respect for each other and were talking about collaborating,” she says. “I was finishing up my own album in Malibu, and one night after a long day he asked me to come to his studio to hear something he was working on...It was around midnight when I got there, and I was blown away when I heard what he had started making.”

    After revealing they "stayed up all night” to finish both writing and recording it, Lady Gaga continues, “Bruno’s talent is beyond explanation. His musicianship and vision is next level. There’s no one like him." There's no one like you either Gaga!

    Has "Die With A Smile" been on repeat for you? Let us know your favorite Lady Gaga song on Instagram!

    New Year’s Eve doesn’t have to just be all about crowded bars and overpriced drinks. Those options can be great, but sometimes a tasteful dinner party can be even more fun and celebratory. Picture this: an array of Champagne cocktails and all kinds of fancy finger foods for your giddy guests before you serve up a fantastic New Year's dinner. Top the night off with a New Year’s toast, and suddenly you’ve hosted the perfect gathering. To get you started, we’ve gathered elegant meal options that range from Asian-inspired to the ultimate adult-ified grilled cheese sandwich to vegan and healthier options. Happy new year!

    The best New Year's Eve dinner ideas for a festive start to 2025!

    Brit + Co New Year's Eve Dinner Recipes

    Brit + Co

    Mac + Cheese Gnocchi

    When you’re forming your own traditions, start by riffing on classic recipes like this mac and cheese. Our fancy gnocchi side dish is loaded with three kinds of cheese and will make every carb lover give thanks. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

    We love a good Instant Pot meal and this creamy and delicious dish does not disappoint. It's great for your NYE feast! (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Pressure Cooker Vegetarian Chili

    Just dump the ingredients into your pressure cooker, and you'll have food enough to feed a family in less than 30 minutes. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    10-Minute Vegan Trader Joe's Stir-Fry

    On a budget? You just need a bag of frozen stir-fry veggies and frozen brown rice on hand for the base to this healthy meal. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Mango Shrimp Curry

    A jar of mango chutney acts as the base of this shrimp stir-fry. Talk about summery goodness. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Thai Basil Stir-Fry

    Punchy Thai basil, chiles, and garlic add a burst of flavor to this simple ground chicken stir-fry. Serve with sticky white rice so you can soak up every last bit of sauce. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    4-Ingredient Vegan Baked Ziti

    Bake pasta without having to boil it beforehand by giving it a quick soak. You'll be surprised at how much time you save. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Sheet-Pan Lemon Chicken, Squash, and Green Beans

    We love everything about this simple and fresh sheet-pan chicken and veggies. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Vegan Sheet-Pan German Sausage and Veggies

    Hearty vegan cooking doesn't have to take forever. Whip out your handy sheet-pan, and you'll be eating this melange of veggie sausage, potatoes, and cabbage in about 45 mostly hands-off minutes. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Mexican-Style Hot Dogs in Lettuce Wraps

    Keep it casual with a jumble of veggies and black beans that put a much fresher spin on hot dogs. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    20-Minute Tahini Salmon Salad

    The rich and nutty tahini dressing is the key to transforming this salad into one you'll actually get excited about eating. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Pressure-Cooker Carnitas

    This flexible recipe has a flavorful base of pork shoulder, aromatic veggies, adobo sauce, and beer, but you can also get creative by adding your own combination of herbs and seasonings. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Easy French Dip Sandwiches

    For a casual yet still comforting NYE meal, try our version of Pinterest’s most-pinned Instant-Pot recipe cooks tender chuck roast in nutty ghee, which we serve on buttered pretzel rolls with mild cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, and leftover juices for dipping. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Paleo Orange Chicken

    The classic American-Chinese staple is made even quicker when seared and pressure-cooked in the IP. Add a little bit of sriracha for a sweet and spicy flavor that's unmatched. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Instant Pot Beef Stew

    You'll want to go ahead and bookmark this Instant Pot recipe because chances are, after you make this stew for the first time, you’ll go back again and again. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Keto Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs

    We thought meatballs couldn't get much better but stuff them with cheese and suddenly they're a whole new meal that we can't get enough of. We love to use them on top of zoodles but any old noodles will work too ;). (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Pumpkin Curry

    This side dish can also serve as a main course for any plant-based eaters around your dinner table this Christmas Eve. The flavors of pumpkin and vegetables keep things light and bright, while the spicy curry will warm you to your toes. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Harissa Shrimp Recipe With Chickpea-Dill Tomato Sauce

    You'll love this recipe due to its versatility. The tomato sauce could easily support any protein, from tofu to rack of lamb. Not into dill? Use parsley, mint, basil, or cilantro (or d. all of the above) instead. No chickpeas? Omit them or substitute literally any other legume. Go to Italy or India this NYE with your flavor profile. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Squid Puttanesca

    This sustainable, healthy, and delicious meal is a great start to a happy new year. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas

    Sheet pan meals are a lifesaver on busy nights when you don't have time to cook and do a pile of dishes. Quick-cooking shrimp is the ideal protein for the method, since it cooks up in mere minutes. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Sesame Shrimp Puffs

    These savory puffs are perfect for your NYE potluck. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Spicy Butter Chicken

    makes for a romantic weeknight at-home date night. Serve with plenty of basmati rice for scooping up that addictive sauce, and enough slices of naan to literally wipe your plate clean. (via Brit + Co)

    New Year’s Food That’s Both Fancy and Delicious

    A Spicy Perspective

    Pan Seared Duck Breast with Savory Blackberry Sauce

    Duck breasts are surprisingly easy to prepare and this flavorful dish will have your dinner guests in awe of your cooking talents. (via A Spicy Perspective)

    Culinary Hill

    Beef Stroganoff

    This crowd pleaser is comforting and easy to prepare with variations like extra creamy or garlicky. (via Culinary Hill)

    Barley & Sage

    Chicken Pot Pie Soup

    Make this cozy soup with the classic flavors of chicken pot pie,, topped with crispy puff pastry bites for the perfect NYE meal! (via Barley & Sage)

    Half Baked Harvest

    Crock-Pot Crispy Caramelized Pork Ramen Noodle Soup With Curry Roasted Acorn Squash

    Who knew a crockpot meal could look so beautiful? We love this for an NYE party because it has a little bit of everything, thanks to some truly mouth-watering flavors. (via Half Baked Harvest)

    Cozy Cravings

    BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND SPINACH LASAGNA

    Make this flavorful twist on traditional lasagna with layers of roasted butternut squash sauce, roasted garlic and a cheesy spinach mixture, all baked until golden. (via Cozy Cravings)

    The Endless Meal

    PORCHETTA

    This all-belly porchetta is so rich and tender and perfect for a holiday dinner. Fennel and traditional Italian seasonings make it feel fancy but it's super easy. Serve with some roasted potatoes and greens. (via The Endless Meal)

    Joyful Healthy Eats

    Pan Seared Ribeye With Herb Butter

    If you need some New Year’s Eve food ideas for an intimate night with just you and bae, it might be time to whip out the top-quality ribeye. Don’t forget to dowse it in the homemade herb butter. YUM! (via Joyful Healthy Eats)

    Domestic Superhero

    Apple and Gouda Grilled Cheese

    Elevating cheese and apples… from the hors d’oeuvres tray to the dinner plate. If you feel like something more casual, try a grab-and-go instead of a sit-down New Year's Eve meal. This sandwich ticks all of the boxes. (via Domestic Superhero)

    Natasha's Kitchen

    Oven Baked Salmon With Lemon Cream Sauce

    If your New Year's dinner ideas need some beautiful color, this salmon recipe should do the trick. Paired with asparagus and rice, your guests will leave absolutely stuffed. (via Natasha’s Kitchen)

    Inquiring Chef

    Braised Red Wine Short Ribs

    We don’t want to get too fancy on you, but the Parmesan polenta made with this dish totally sold us. Plus, the braised ribs are super easy — toss them in the oven, then simply pull them out when guests arrive for a tasty New Year's recipe. Done! (via Inquiring Chef)

    Yammie's Noshery

    Bacon, Brie, and Apricot Grilled Cheese With Balsamic Reduction

    This might be one of the most mouthwatering sandwiches, and New Year's Eve menu ideas, we’ve ever come across. The thick slabs of Brie melting into the apricot preserves goes perfectly with the crunchy, toasted bread. (via Yammie’s Noshery)

    Closet Cooking

    Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce

    These chicken breasts can be whipped up in a snap and are truly drool-worthy, which obviously makes them the ideal choice to serve at a holiday dinner party. This would be perfect on a bed of noodles or wild rice. (via Closet Cooking)

    The Bojon Gourmet

    Curry Roasted Eggplant With Smoked Cardamom and Coconut Milk

    If you're wondering what to cook for New Year's Eve, look no further. We think whipping up a curry would be super unexpected and a great surprise to dinner guests. They might be hesitant at first, but once they taste the tender eggplant, all bets are off. (via The Bojon Gourmet)

    Cooking and Beer

    Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake With Bacon

    Alfredo and bacon, friends… the savory combination we didn’t even know we needed. Make sure you’re ready for the cream overload, though, because this gnocchi bake is chock-full of ricotta, sour cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan. (via Cooking and Beer)

    The Seasoned Mom

    Honey Dijon Roasted Pork Tenderloin

    This New Year's Eve meal idea is great for an intimate gathering of friends or family to celebrate the new year. Other than the pork, you only need four pantry ingredients (plus salt and pepper), so you can have this whipped up in no time. (via The Seasoned Mom)

    Olive You Whole

    Whole30 + Paleo Shallot Filet Mignon

    Kick off the new year with this healthy yet totally satisfying meal. (via Olive You Whole)

    Chef Genevieve LaMonaca

    Foolproof Beef Wellingtonby Chef Genevieve LaMonaca

    Ingredients:

    • 2 lbs beef Tenderloin center cut canon (ask your butcher)
    • 1-2 T Avocado Oil for searing
    • 8oz shallots, minced
    • 1 lb Mushrooms, cremini or button, minced
    • 6 T butter
    • 1 t thyme leaves
    • 1 T minced Parsley
    • Salt and Pepper TT
    • Pastry Dough x 2:
    • Bread Flour 1 1/2 cups plus 1 T
    • Butter 3/4 cup (6oz) cubed
    • Salt 1/2 t
    • Ice cold water 1/4 cup

    Directions:

    • Slice off a 2 lb center cut canon from a beef tenderloin or ask your butcher.
    • Pat dry, season heavily with salt and pepper. sear on all sides using a fat with a high smoke point (Avocado oil)
    • Tip: Precooking your beef is the secret to preventing a soggy bottom crust and most of the moisture is removed prior. This will also ensure that your tenderloin is cooked perfect every time.
    • Roast in a 150 oven to an internal temp of 115. Chill
    • TIP: I like to measure my canon lengthwise side to side then the circumference by using butchers twine. This will help me determine the size I need to make my prosciutto bed and pastry sheet.
    • Make your mushroom duxelles. Saute half a pound of minced shallots in 6 T butter then add 1 lb finely chopped mushrooms and thyme, saute, deglaze with sherry wine as necessary, cook until pan is dry, add minced parsley, season and set aside.
    • Add flour and butter to a counter top mixer and using a paddle, combine on lowest speed until the butter is turned into crumbs and all the flour is Incorporated. Pour in your ice water and mix until combined. Place dough onto the counter and form into a ball then flatten/ wrap with plastic wrap and chill.

    New Year's Eve Recipes That Cover All The Bases

    The Food Charlatan

    Savory Parmesan French Toast With Hollandaise Sauce

    We’re noticing that Parmesan cheese is a recurring ingredient on this list, but we’re obviously okay with it. Take this savory French toast, for example. This New Year's Eve dinner recipe is breakfast for supper, only better. (via The Food Charlatan)

    Recipe Tin Eats

    Slow Cooked Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Sauce

    Instead of just drinking red wine, you can cook your meat in it too. Serve these shanks on top of mashed potatoes and you have yourself a meal fit for your finest guests. (via Recipe Tin Eats)

    The Almond Eater

    Mushroom and White Truffle Mac and Cheese

    This dish isn’t for the faint of heart; it’s the most grown-up of the grown-up macaroni and cheeses out there. If you love noshing on truffle fries, then this New Year's menu idea is right up your alley. (via The Almond Eater)

    Life As A Strawberry

    Parmesan Spinach Gnocchi

    We’re mixing up New Years' party food and adding gnocchi with this recipe. It’s warm, delectable, and makes for a comforting winter dish. Everyone craves a cheesy, cream-based meal when it’s cold, so they might as well get it at your NYE dinner party. (via Life As a Strawberry)

    Yummy Healthy Easy

    Pasta With Light Avocado Cream Sauce

    Don’t be fooled by the green — these aren’t zoodles, although those would make a great dish for New Year's Eve too. These noodles get their pretty green color from being tossed in avocados and creamy spinach. (via Yummy Healthy Easy)

    Recipe Runner

    Pear, Prosciutto, and Gorgonzola Pizza

    This pizza brings together a whole lot of flavors we love and want more of. It’s salty and sweet perfection for dinner. The best part? It’s loaded with Gouda, mozzarella, and Gorgonzola. (via Recipe Runner)

    Cafe Delites

    Smoked Salmon and Avocado Pizza

    Everyone will want to grab a slice of this pie (or the whole thing). If you weren’t sold at avocado, the “sauce” is made up of cream cheese, dill, and garlic, then melted together with grated mozzarella. (via Cafe Delites)

    A Pleasant Little Kitchen

    Instant Pot Lamb Chops With Creamed Cauliflower

    If you got an Instant Pot for Christmas, this recipe will have you putting it to good use by making these tender and herbaceous lamb chops served over creamy puréed cauliflower. (via A Pleasant Little Kitchen)

    This innovative take on ravioli includes a velvety butternut filling, crunchy walnuts, roasted cauliflower, and browned butter.

    Jelly Toast

    Barramundi en Papillote

    Flaky barramundi is steamed in parchment alongside Meyer lemons, ginger, bell peppers, and butter for a meal that promises big flavor and little clean-up. (via Jelly Toast)

    Jo Cooks

    Apple Bacon and Blue Cheese-Stuffed Pork Chops

    There truly is no better way to enjoy a pork chop than when it’s stuffed to the max with a mouthwatering medley of sweet apples, tangy blue cheese, and salty bacon. (via Jo Cooks)

    Pinch of Yum

    Instant Pot Korean Beef Tacos

    Everyone loves tacos, so feeding your pals these tender and juicy Korean beef tacos topped with fresh cilantro, kimchi, peanuts, and Sriracha mayo is a surefire way to win at hosting. (via Pinch of Yum)

    Rasa Malaysia

    Garlic Butter Scallops With Lemon Sauce

    Scallops will win over the heart of any dinner guest — especially when they’re pan-seared to golden perfection in buttery garlicky goodness. (via Rasa Malaysia)

    Half Baked Harvest

    Crockpot Coq au Vin Meatballs

    Make these easy herb-seasoned parmesan chicken meatballs cooked in wine with vegetables, onions, garlic, and fresh herbs for a warm and flavorful holiday meal. (via Half Baked Harvest)

    Folks & Foliage

    Arayes With Cheese

    These crispy arayes feature a flavorful ground meat mixture and shredded cheese stuffed into pita bread then grilled to crispy, juicy perfection. (via Forks & Foliage)

    Feel Good Foodie

    Pomegranate Roasted Chicken Thighs

    This easy chicken recipe has an intense sweet and sour flavor similar to balsamic. The pomegranate roasted chicken thighs are made with a flavorful marinade using pomegranate molasses. (via Feel Good Foodie)

    Feel Good Foodie

    Cheese Stuffed Shells

    For an easy and delicious vegetarian dish, these cheese stuffed shells are made with three types of cheese, ricotta, mozzarella and parmesan, baked with a marinara sauce, and served with fresh basil. !(via Feel Good Foodie)

    Salt & Lavender

    One Pan Creamy Gnocchi with Sausage

    This meal only takes 30 minutes but looks and tastes like you've spent all day in the kitchen. (via Salt & Lavender)

    Maggie Bakes Grace

    Vegan Creamy Lemon Pasta

    Even if not everyone is vegan, this lemon pasta will please a crowd. The secret ingredient? Hummus! (via Maggie Bakes Grace)

    Munching With Mariyah

    Aloo Gobi is one of the easiest curries to whip up and made with cauliflower, potatoes and spices you likely already have in your pantry..(via Munching With Mariyah)

    Rach L Mansfield

    No-Boil Broccoli Rabe + Sausage Baked Pasta

    This oven-baked pasta is one of the most satisfying for a winter holiday meal. (via Rach L Mansfield)

    Nareen's Eats

    Seared Scallops in Roasted Vegetable Puree

    Keep it simple yet elegant with seared scallops and vegetable puree, perfect for a fancy night dish. (via Nareen's Eats)

    Allosimone

    Coconut Dal

    NYE is a great time to try something new like this coconut dal dish with comforting lentils. Serve over rice with warm bread or naan. (via allosimone)

    Chef Bai

    BAJA NO-FISH TACOS

    Oyster mushrooms and cashew cream make these vegan tacos as delicious as the fish-based.(via Chef Bai)

    Two Spoons

    Vegan Shepherd's Pie

    Go for this cozy classic with a vegan and gluten-free twist made with a brothy lentil base and fluffy mashed potato topping. (via Two Spoons)

    Live Eat Learn

    Truffle Pizza

    You can never go wrong with truffle oil and pizza to please a crowd. (via Live Eat Learn)

    Cilantro Parsley

    ITALIAN MAHI MAHI WITH LEMON BUTTER SAUCE

    Mahi mahi, butter, garlic, white wine, lemon, capers, and parsley served over rice or pasta sounds like a perfect NYE meal to us! (via Cilantro Parsley)

    Want more easy New Year's Eve dinner recipes? Follow us on Pinterest and subscribe to our email newsletter for some extra inspo!

    This post has been updated. (Additional reporting by Dana Sandonato, Chloe Williams and Theresa Gonzalez)

    Many people look for the new year to bring new opportunities and, in some cases, a fresh start altogether. But for me? As a longtime entertainment reporter, there is one thing I can’t help but get excited about when another year rolls around: the upcoming movie releases and, of course, the most anticipated television shows. While I'm looking forward to see what happens to Eleven and the rest of the Hawkins crew in Stranger Things 5 on Netflix, there are a bunch of new TV shows that have been at the top of my watch list from the moment they were first announced, including Suits: LA and It: Welcome to Derry.

    Here are the 2025 television shows that should be on your radar (if they aren’t already!).

    Severance Season 2 — On Apple TV+ January, 17 2025

    Apple TV+

    After Mark Scout, Helly, and Irving learn the truth about the “severance” experiment and manage to break free from its clutches in the Severance season 1 finale, the three coworkers (along with the rest of the Lumon Industries employees) are forced to return to work in the second installment of the series. Now that Mark and some of his peers know what the company was really doing to the Lumon staff, one could only wonder: What are Lumon Industries's hidden objectives? (And what’s with all the GOATS?!)

    Severance season 2 premieres on Apple TV+ on January 17, 2024 and stars Adam Scott, Britt Lower, John Turturro, Dichen Lachman, Dichen Lachman and Patricia Arquette.

    The White Lotus Season 3 — On HBO and Max February 16, 2025

    Mario Perez/HBO

    Pack your bags, White Lotus fans, because our favorite hotel residents are catching a first-class flight to…Thailand! While there are a bunch of new guests checking into a luxury hotel, there’s one returning guest who needs no introduction. Natasha Rothwell, who made her debut at Belinda Lindsey in The White Lotus season 1, is the only returning cast making a brief cameo in season 3. Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, here we come!

    The White Lotus season 3 is coming in February and will star Leslie Bibb, Jason Isaacs, Michelle Monaghan, Carrie Coon, Parker Posey, Patrick Schwarzenegger and Blackpink’s Lisa Manobal.

    The Last of Us Season 2 — On HBO and Max in April 2025

    Liane Hentscher/HBO

    I can’t be the only one still thinking about that bombshell season one finale of HBO’s The Last of Us! And apparently, I’m not the only one who’s eager to see the continuation of Joel and Ellie’s story in season 2. Fans of the video game adaptation have been keeping their eyes peeled for a new update about season 2. And one teaser later, we might have just gotten the news we’ve been looking for. Following the 2024 Emmy Awards, Chairman and CEO of HBO and Max Content Casey Bloys toldDeadline that The Last of Us season 2 will premiere around “generally first half of the year [2025], I expect them to be in the Emmy window.”

    The Last of Us season 2 will star Pedro Pascal, Bella Ramsey, Gabriel Luna, Rutina Wesley, Kaitlyn Dever, Isabela Merced, Young Mazino, Spencer Lord, Danny Ramirez, Catherine O'Hara, Jeffrey Wright, Tati Gabrielle and Ariela Barer.

    The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3 — On Prime Video in 2025

    Erika Doss/Prime Video

    It's almost time to return to Cousins Beach, and I have missed all the hydrangeas, fair rides, and ocean sunrises. We haven't heard for sure whether season 3 will be the end of the road for this series, but if it follows even a few chapters in the third book in The Summer I Turned Pretty series, We'll Always Have Summer, then we will absolutely be getting some drama.

    The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 premieres in 2025 and stars Lola Tung, Christopher Briney, Gavin Casalegno, Sean Kaufman, Rain Spencer, Jackie Chung, and Rachel Blanchard.

    It: Welcome to Derry — On Max in 2025

    Warner Bros. Entertainment

    Bill, Richie, Beverly and the rest of the Losers Club members might have been able to defeat Pennywise in It: Chapter Two, but that doesn’t mean we've seen the last of Derry, Maine. Serving as a prequel series to the It movie franchise directed by Andres Muschietti, Welcome to Derry will delve into Pennywise’s origin story and how the child-preying clown arrived in Derry. But that’s not even the best part: Bill Skarsgård, who starred in It and It: Chapter Two, will reprise his role as the killer clown in the upcoming HBO series, which will be released in 2025. So until then, no accepting red balloons from creepy clowns, okay?

    It: Welcome to Derry will star Jovan Adepo, Chris Chalk, Taylour Paige, James Remar, Stephen Rider, Madeleine Stowe, Alixandra Fuchs, Kimberly Guerrero, Joshua Odjick and Morningstar Angeline.

    Stranger Things Season 5 — On Netflix in 2025

    Netflix

    I’ve been a fan of Stranger Things since it premiered on Netflix back in 2016, and come next year, longtime fans like myself will finally get to see how the story ends. Last time we saw Eleven, Mike, Will and the rest of the Hellfire Club crew, they were facing an impending apocalypse after Vecna’s devious plan came to full fruition. So, will the group of friends defeat Vecna and save their home? Guess we’ll just have to wait and see because Stranger Things 5 likely won’t premiere until late 2025. Now, all we need is that release date, Netflix…

    Stranger Things 5 is coming to Netflix soon and stars Millie Bobby Brown, Noah Schnapp, Finn Wolfhard, Caleb McLaughlin, Gaten Matarazzo, Natalia Dyer, Charlie Heaton, Sadie Sink, Maya Hawke, Joe Keery, David Harbour, Winona Ryder, Amybeth McNulty, and Priah Ferguson.

    Suits: L.A. — On NBC in 2025

    David Astorga/NBC

    Court is back in session! Only this time, our favorite lawyers from the OG Pearson Hardman firm are not on the case. Thanks to Netflix, the original Suits (which starred the Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle) experienced a renaissance of sorts upon its arrival to the streaming service in June 2023. And as a result, NBCUniversal ordered a spinoff series earlier this year. But instead of the bustling streets of New York City, a new group of lawyers are setting up shop in the Golden State in Suits L.A.

    The new spinoff will center around an entertainment and criminal lawler named Ted Black, who launches his own law firm in California after moving from the East Coast. Originally, Suits L.A was slated to be a part of NBCUniversal’s 2024-2025 lineup. However, according to Deadline, there was a slight change in the production location, making a Fall 2025 release more likely. So, who’s up for a Suits marathon?

    Suits L.A. is speculated to premiere sometime in 2025 and is set to star Ted Black, Josh McDermitt, Rachelle Goulding, Victoria Justice, Troy Wingush, Bryan Greenberg, Lex Scott Davis, John Amos, Kevin Weistman and Alice Lee.

    Wednesday Season 2 — On Netflix in 2025

    Netflix

    Looks like Jenna Ortega won’t be giving us another macabre number anytime soon because Wednesday season 2 won’t arrive on Netflix until 2025. In a new interview with Vanity Fair, Ortega teases the upcoming installment will be much “darker” this time around. “I think the feel that we’re going for is a little bit more horror-inspired,” the Beetlejuice Beetlejuicestar adds. “Not to say that suddenly we’re the goriest show of all time. I mean, there’s six-year-olds watching.”

    “This season is going to be bigger and more twisted than you can ever imagine," Catherine Zeta-Jones says in the new Wednesday season 2 first look.

    “If we showed you any more, your eyes would bleed,” Ortega says. “And I'm not that generous.”

    What TV show are you most excited to see in 2025? Personally, I can’t wait for Sweet Magnolias season 4 to drop! (Margarita, anyone?) Make sure to follow us on TikTok and Facebook for more TV exclusives and latest news updates!

    This post has been updated.

    Kate Middleton has been top of mind for a lot of people over the last year after the princess announced in March 2024 she was battling cancer. "The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant and we have had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and road unknown," she shared in a video update. "This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life, which so many of us often take for granted. Of simply loving and being loved." And in honor of Kate's 43rd birthday, Prince William posted the sweetest tribute honoring her strength and perseverance.

    Here's what Prince William had to say in Kate Middleton's birthday tribute.

    Prince William celebrates "incredible" Kate Middleton's "strength."

    Kate Middleton turned 43 on January 9, 2025. In honor of the big day, Prince William took to Instagram to celebrate, praising his "incredible" wife.

    "To the most incredible wife and mother. The strength you’ve shown over the last year has been remarkable," he says in the post. "George, Charlotte, Louis and I are so proud of you. Happy Birthday, Catherine. We love you. W."

    And well wishers flooded the comments. "Happy Birthday Catherine, wishing you a wonderful year ahead surrounded by family and loved ones," one user says, while another adds, "Happy Birthday Princess of Wales! What a gorgeous photo. Wishing you a wonderful year 😍 xx"

    And the tribute comes after revealing Kate was doing "amazing" following her cancer battle.

    The birthday celebration comes after the prince shared an update on Kate in early November that had us all breathing a sigh of relief. “She's doing really well thanks. And hopefully, she is watching tonight. So cheering me on," he said before the Earthshot Prize awards (via People). “She's been amazing this whole this whole year. I know she will be really keen to see tonight be a success."

    "From what I understand, Catherine is doing very well," royal author Robert Jobson added in an interview withHello!that same week. "She is back training at the gym and doing all the things she wanted to do."

    We're sending Kate Middleton so much birthday love! For more about your favorite members of the Royal Family, check out Meghan Markle’s New Netflix Cooking Show Will Feature Some Of Your Fave Celebs.