WTF Is a Taco Cleanse and Should You Do One? We Investigate

It’s January and time for us to repeat the same old adage: “New year, new you.” Let’s make and try to keep resolutions, be on good behavior for a week and… time’s up! After about a week of remorse, we forget about those “lofty goals” and move on. At least, that’s how the pattern typically goes for me year after year. But 2016 is the exception.

This is the year where I finally upgrade my diet from that of a 10-year-old child to that of an SF yuppie — organic, farm raised and green, green, green. Before, I mostly ate: cereal, quesadillas, chocolate, candy, hamburgers, Mexican food and chips. Okay, still eat. Where are the fruits and vegetables? Non-existent. But when a coworker told me about the Taco Cleanse, I knew this was my chance. Because I LOVE tacos. (Proof here and here). Little did I know, this would be the biggest dietary struggle of my life (except for the one day I attempted a juice cleanse and only made it to 10am).

So, the Taco Cleanse. It’s a real thing, y’all. There’s a book and everything! As a native Texas and connoisseur of Mexican food (and margaritas), it’s almost as if this cleanse was made for me. Still, as you undergo any major life change, you must complete a very crucial first step: Research.

TACO CLEANSE RESEARCH

I reached out to the authors of The Taco Cleanse, fellow Texans Wes Allison, Stephanie Bogdanich, Molly R. Frisinger and Jessica Morris, for advice on how to best prepare for this epic endeavor.

VH: What should I do to prepare for this diet?

The Taco Cleanse: Begin by taking the quiz in our book to see if the Taco Cleanse is right for you. (Of course it is! Duhhh!) The next step is to start a taco journal to keep a record of how you feel about the diet. Build a community of true believers to aid you on your journey by getting the book for your friends and family. When you first introduce tacos into your diet, you will notice immediate changes, including a higher state of mind. You may want to stay away from driving or operating heavy machinery, especially once you start taking your margarita supplements. (How many margarita supplements am I allowed… ?)

VH: What do you see as being the biggest obstacle when starting this taco cleanse?

TC: Your peers may question your choice to radically change your diet. They may not understand that you’ve found a new path in life. Talk it over with them and explain you’re doing what’s right for YOU. Additionally, if you are on the Familiar American Diet (aka FAD) you might not be used to having something spicy first thing in the morning. You might even wonder if tacos go well with coffee. As a Texan, I can assure you that once you start eating breakfast tacos in the morning, there really is no turning back.

VH: What did you personally miss most while on the taco cleanse? (I’m scared…)

TC: I did experience some detox symptoms, which I wasn’t prepared for considering my diet was already so taco-heavy. During the first week it was cold outside, and I was really craving some soup. I persevered, and within a week I was feeling better than I had in my whole life. After that, I learned that anything I missed could easily be turned into a taco, like the Pad Thai-co or the Pizza Taco (order pad thai or pizza and put it in a tortilla). (Pizza taco?! Bring. It. On.)

VH: Sooooo…. does this count? (JK. Kinda.)

VH: Why a taco cleanse? What advantages do tacos have?

TC: We had long realized that eating tacos made us happier, better people, and to prove that to ourselves and the world, we decided to embark on the, then, experimental cleanse. Our research has repeatedly shown that tacos are the perfect food, and we had such amazing results, that we realized we had to share our research with the world. Well-balanced tacos are full of all the maco- and mezzo- and micronutrients you will ever need, and in our busy, go-go modern era, they are also simple to make and eat — something the people of Mexico have known for a long time and the rest of the world is just catching on to.

VH: As a native Texan, what can I look forward to with these recipes? A taste of home?

TC: Our tacos are what we call “Austin style” and are often inspired by our favorite restaurants. So you will find Mexican favorites like al pastor and guisada, Tex-Mex re-creations like migas and fajitas, Austin-inspired tacos like Smoked Brisket with Mac & Cheese and Frito Pie Tacos, and then our own creations, like the Tater Tot-cho Taco or the dessert-style Churro-Waffle Taco. Since we are all vegan, the recipes are free of any animal products, but I assure you, you won’t feel like you’re missing out!

Equipped with this advice and the book’s suggested meal plan, I started my epic taco cleanse. Check back next week on #TacoTuesday for all the spicy details about my week of tortilla-filled goodness and how I moved past these initial thoughts: tofu scramble (UH NO), tempeh (nooooo srsly?!), vegan chicharrones (this sounds very sad), soy curls (my stomach says NO). Until then, keep calm and taco on!

Want to join me on the 2016 Taco Cleanse? Pick up a copy of the book here and let us know your favorite recipe by tweeting @BritandCo!

We all know how important it is to start your day off with some protein. Doing so can reduce hunger cravings throughout the day and give you the energy you need to get things done! But while we totally love eggs, some days simply call for an egg-free breakfast – anyone that gets the egg ick understands this. 😵💫

It's an especially helpful concept to prepare egg-free breakfasts right now, as we're (sadly) experiencing an egg shortage in the wake of bird flu.

Whether you're looking for a gluten-free breakfast, vegan morning meals, or Paleo-friendly alternatives, we've got an eggless option for you below.

Check out 15 of our favorite protein-packed, completely egg-free breakfast ideas!

Brit + Co

Chia Pudding

Chia seeds are relatively high in protein, and the fact that you can turn 'em into pudding that tastes like literal dessert has our tummies grumbling! This egg-free breakfast idea is also a perfect fit for meal prepping, since you can make a big batch and store it in the fridge for later. Top with any fruits or nuts of your choosing! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Muffins

These healthy muffins take the traditional apple + cinnamon oatmeal and turn it on its head. They're a super easy high-protein bake, and the recipe leverages some pretty accessible ingredients, too. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Matcha Yogurt Bark

You'll get a great protein *and* caffeine boost from this easy egg-free breakfast recipe. You can get crazy with the toppings, too! (via Brit + Co)

Minimalist Baker

Roasted Sweet Potato & Kale Breakfast Hash

Think breakfast hash is only for egg lovers? Think again. This tofu-based scramble also features sweet potato, kale and red onion. Bonus points if you can find a fresh, seasonal squash from your local farmers’ market to add! (via Minimalist Baker)

Fork & Beans

Vegan Chickpea Omelette

Omelettes are traditionally made with eggs, but we're dying to buck tradition with this chickpea-based egg-free breakfast recipe. You can easily save time by making the batter before going to bed. Wake up in the morning, cook it on the stove top, and it'll be ready to eat in just 5 minutes. (via Fork & Beans)

Oh She Glows

Vegan Overnight Oats

Speaking of meals you can prep before bed, these overnight oats are about as quick and easy as it gets! Just soak 'em in your favorite dairy-free milk overnight, and in the morning, they'll be soft and parfait-like. Top with pureed fruit, chia seeds, nuts, and anything else that suits your fancy. (via Oh She Glows)

Real Food with Jessica

Paleo Cinnamon Granola

If you're a Paleo eater, you know how frustrating it can be when granola recipes contain extra grains and sugar. But this Paleo-friendly recipe only calls for those absolutely necessary, primal, completely clean ingredients that really matter: nuts, seeds, spices, and natural sweeteners. (via Real Food with Jessica)

Bakerita

Paleo Chocolate Chunk Banana Bread

This grain-free, gluten-free, and sugar-free recipe gives banana bread a whole new meaning — it's literally sweetened only with bananas. Egg-free breakfast never sounded so yum! Pro tip: add some homemade Paleo-friendly chocolate chips to make it even healthier and yummier. (via Bakerita)

Food Faith Fitness

Blueberry Breakfast Quinoa Smoothie Bowl

Did you know you can use quinoa as a cereal-like grain for breakfast? This quinoa bowl is topped with an antioxidant-rich blueberry smoothie, making for a protein-packed, nutrient-dense meal. (via Food Faith Fitness)

Minimalist Baker

Southwest Tofu Scramble

This savory egg-free breakfast option packs a ton of protein into a completely vegan meal. Here's a little breakfast hack for ya – mix your spices together with a little water and you have a quick, ready-made seasoning sauce to top your scramble with! (via Minimalist Baker)

A Saucy Kitchen

Grain-Free Banana Granola

Granola is a healthy and quick breakfast option that can easily be topped with non-dairy milk for a delicious vegan treat. Be sure to stir your granola after it's been in the oven for about 12 minutes, so it gets evenly crispy on all sides. (via A Saucy Kitchen)

The View From Great Island

Vegan Vanilla Protein Breakfast Bowl

Looking for an egg-free breakfast that's still packed with plant-based protein? This vegan muesli bowl is so amazing, you won't miss conventional cereals or dairy milk at all. It's deliciously packed with rolled oats, cacao nibs, fresh fruit, honey, coconut and protein vanilla milk for sweetness. (via The View From Great Island)

Ambitious Kitchen

Almond Butter Blueberry Paleo Waffles

These waffles are made with almond butter and coconut flour, as well as blueberries, cinnamon, mashed banana and almond extract. The result is a batch of totally healthy, grain-free waffles that will leave you feeling satisfied and full of protein-powered energy – no eggs necessary. (via Ambitious Kitchen)

Vega

Vegan Banana Protein Pancakes

Did you know that protein powder can actually stand in for pancake mix in many cases? This little egg-free breakfast hack is commonly used by athletes and fitness gurus, and it's super simple to do at home. (via Vega)

Oh She Glows

Easy No-Bake Protein Bars

A whole, delicious vegan protein bar we can grab on our way out the door? Yes, please. To make these nut-free, simply substitute sunflower seed butter for the peanut butter included in the recipe. (via Oh She Glows)

Follow us on Pinterest for more healthy breakfast recipes!

This article has been updated from a previous post with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

It Ends With Us drama is seemingly never-ending, from the back-and-forth accusations of Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni to the multi-million dollar lawsuits. As the feud continues to escalate, the legal situations evolve daily — and now a judge just paused Justin Baldoni's $400 million lawsuit against the New York Times. Here's what's happening in this highly complex legal battle, and what it all means for the lawsuit in general.

Scroll to find out what this pause means for Justin Baldoni's $400 million lawsuit...

On January 16, 2025, Justin Baldoni filed a $400 million defamation lawsuit against Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, their publicists, and the New York Times. By January 30, Blake and Ryan quickly filed to dismissthe suit with a single sentence: "The Lively-Reynolds Parties intend to move to dismiss Plaintiffs’ complaint."

According to Deadline, the New York Times also filed its own motion to dismiss the case on February 28, 2025. The media company wrote, "The Wayfarer Parties’ FAC tells a one-sided tale that has garnered plenty of headlines, but The Times does not belong in this dispute."

Now, a judge is seemingly siding with The Times by at least granting a pause on discovery for the lawsuit, according to E! News. Reporting from E! states that a motion was filed to "temporarily halt parties from having to exchange information or documents." Judge Lewis J. Liman granted the motion to pause, explaining that the media outlet has "substantial grounds" and "a strong showing that its motion to dismiss is likely to succeed on the merits."

Despite the Baldoni team's claims that this new window substantially shortens their time for discovery, Judge Liman maintained that "the burden of discovery is not measured only by the number of pages." And if we know anything about Baldoni's team? It's that they love to release lots and lots and lots of documents.

Judge Liman continued his decision by stating that Baldoni's team will be able to ask for the "extent of discovery" they need if the courts ultimately deny The Times' request. Still, he explained that "The Court intends to address the motion to dismiss promptly after it is fully submitted.”

A spokesperson for the New York Times told E! News, "We appreciate the court’s decision today, which recognizes the important First Amendment values at stake here. The court has stopped Mr. Baldoni from burdening The Times with discovery requests in a case that should never have been brought against."

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If you do any amount of baking, it's only natural that you'll end up with a few extra egg whites on hand now and again, so what better to use them for than some egg white recipes? While we're big fans of putting them to use in gorgeous pavlovas, heavenly angel food cakes, to-die-for macarons and crisp meringue, those are just four of the many terrific ways out there to use them up.

Try these recipes and see how many leftover egg whites you can use up!

What can I do with egg white?

There are a bunch of different foods you can make with egg whites. You can use them in meringue cookies and macarons, or use them to add a fizzy topping to your cocktail.

How long does egg white last in fridge?

You can keep your egg whites in the fridge for up to four days.

How do you make egg white taste tasty?

There are a few different ways you can make an egg white taste good. You can add some salt and pepper before topping the finished product with hot sauce. Another method is adding your favorite cheese and seasonings for extra flavor.

What tastes good with egg whites?

If you want something savory, cheeses, salts, and herbs will add extra flavor. For a sweet addition to a dessert recipe, froth some sugar into the whites.

Brit + Co Egg White Recipes

Brit+ Co

Pumpkin Magic Cake

We already love plain cake, but this delicious recipe takes the classic dessert to the next level. It features three layers: sponge, custard, and fudge for a mix of textures and flavors we can't get enough of. If you're a pumpkin lover, leave the recipe as-is, but feel free to leave out until pumpkin spice season.

Brit + Co

3-Layer Pavlova Berry Cake

What’s better than one layer of crisp meringue, heavenly whipped cream + fresh berries? The answer: THREE! This sky-high beauty is a refreshingly light dessert perfect to dish out at summer gatherings.

Brit+Co

Patriotic Pavlova

Wanna set off some fireworks at your next Fourth of July party? Whip up our Patriotic Pavlova for dessert! Read on for the star-spangled recipe made with four egg whites.

Brit + Co

Pastel Meringues

The basic egg white and sugar base makes these crispy-on-the-outside, chewy-on-the-inside bites a cinch to whip up, and even easier to trick out to your taste.

Brit + Co

Champagne Marshmallows

Whether you prefer them roasted over a campfire or baked into sweet potatoes, you can't deny that marshmallows are a delicious addition to just about everything. Enjoy these springy homemade versions spiked with a splash of fizzy Champagne at your next birthday bash.

Brit + Co

Twice-Baked Potato Chip Soufflé

We didn't think potato chips could get any better, but then we figured out that they make a pretty awesome addition to everything from oysters to ice cream (yes really!) to soufflés. Using cheddar chips adds some extra cheesy goodness in addition to the bacon, potatoes, and cheese.

Brit + Co

Gluten Free Cloud Bread

Cloud bread is fluffy, tasty, and the fact that it's gluten-free is just the cherry on top. Top with your favorite jam, or with the classic peanut butter + banana + chocolate chip breakfast combo. Not only are they easy but they'll also take you under 30 minutes to make!

Brit + Co

Eggnog Colada

This recipe combines a classic summer cocktail with a winter staple, and turns them into something that you'll want to drink all year long. Turns out, pineapple and coconut taste great with eggnog.

Breakfast Egg White Recipes

The Girl on Bloor

Grab & Go Turkey Bacon Egg White Cups

These turkey bacon egg white cups are perfect to make and take on busy mornings. They take less than 25 minutes to make and are a filling and savory breakfast option that hits the spot!

Feel Good Foodie

Egg White Bites with Red Pepper

The sharper tang of red peppers pair beautifully with neutral egg whites, and these bites are basically the best breakfast ever. Plus, you can never go wrong with a spinach and cheese combo.

Kathryn's Kitchen Blog

Egg White Bites (Mushroom and Spinach)

This breakfast brings together spinach, mushrooms, cheese, and egg whites for a super simple — and super satisfying — bite.

A Spicy Perspective

Egg White Frittata with Spinach and Peppers

We love that this gluten-free recipe is full of peppers, spinach, and cheese, which means that it's both tasty *and* healthy. Plus it'll take you less than 30 minutes, which makes it a great option for anyone who doesn't have a ton of time in the morning.

Two Peas & Their Pod

Avocado Toast with Eggs, Spinach, and Tomatoes

With a 5-minute prep time, this avocado toast with eggs is great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Not only is it easy to make, it's healthy and filling!

Cilantro Parsley

Mexican Huevos Ahogados

This dish is both satisfying and delicious! It serves as the perfect hearty and savory breakfast option and is packed with flavor and spices.

Whole and Heavenly Oven

Greek Avocado Egg White Breakfast Tacos

These breakfast tacos are the perfect choice for anyone who leans towards savory options in the morning. They're loaded up with flavor and light in calories, making them a staple in your breakfast routine.

Appetizer Egg White Recipes

Daisy's World

Spiced Cocktail Nuts

We love snacking on nuts when we're hungry, whether it's during our workday or any time during the weekend, but sometimes we want more than just plain salt. Set these sweet, spiced nuts out for your next shindig, or package them up as a thoughtful gift.

Fifteen Spatulas

Puffed Cheddar Cheese Twists

Egg whites bind these flaky, sharp cheddar cheese twists just so. Pair them with tomato soup, nibble on them one after the other, or even bring them to your next movie night.

Lunch & Dinner Egg White Recipes

Domesticate Me

Shakshuka Egg White Frittata with Turkey Sausage

The punchy flavors of this shakshuka-inspired frittata taste so good that you won't even remember that it's made from egg whites. That's some recipe magic right there! The turkey sausage is a great alternative to pork because it has less calories and saturated fats.

Bowl of Delicious

Homemade Egg Drop Soup

If you're looking for an easy and nourishing dinnertime staple, you can't go wrong with this homemade Egg Drop soup. It takes 15 minutes from start to finish and is hearty and comforting!

Give Recipe

Menemen Recipe

This Turkish dish is a quick and easy dinner recipe for those who don't want to spend a lot of time cooking. It's a different take on scrambled eggs, and includes a generous amount of tomatoes and peppers.

Dessert Egg White Recipes

Clean Cuisine

Sweet Potato Soufflé

We couldn't resist adding another soufflé to this round-up because they're so darn good! This one is super quick and easy to make and is gluten, dairy, and refined-sugar-free - making it perfect for most diets. This is one of those dishes that feels like fall but is great for any time you just want something comforting.

Culinary Hill

Homemade Meringue

This is a classic dessert component that you'll be able to use for all of your cookouts, family gatherings, and holiday parties. It is absolutely delicious, whether you add flavoring or keep it as-is.

Barley & Sage

Robin's Egg Macarons

Egg whites will help you make seriously airy macarons. A little bit of blue food coloring (as well as flicking some black food coloring once they're on the pan) gives these treats that recognizable robin's egg look. Just make sure you save enough of the chocolate buttercream filling to lick the spoon!

Love and Olive Oil

Chocolate-Glazed Almond Horns

Chewy-crispy almond cookies are an absolute pleasure to nibble on, especially when they're half covered in a delicious dark chocolate glaze. Just consider this a sophisticated version of chocolate-covered almonds!

Pink Out Kitchen

Old Fashioned Banana Pudding

This old-fashioned banana pudding is authentic and seriously delicious. The fluffy meringue coupled with the sweet vanilla pudding and bananas makes for a rich and delectable treat you'll want spoon after spoon of.

Vikalinka

Waffle Ice Cream Sandwiches

These waffle ice cream sandwiches are seriously the best of both worlds. The waffles are soft and buttery and the ice cream is the perfect sweet treat. The recipe is super easy to make and follow, allowing you to whip up the ultimate dessert in less than no time.

Foodie Baker

Egg White Chocolate Brownies

You won't even notice the absence of yolks in these unbelievably fudgy brownies. Top with a dusting of powdered sugar, some chopped walnuts, or both!

Getting My Just Desserts

Caramel Crunch Cake

Meringue layers make this heavenly whipped cream and caramel cake ever so slightly more virtuous… at least that's what we'll keep telling ourselves.

Desserts with Benefits

Gluten-Free Healthy Banana Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting

Greek yogurt and egg whites are just two of the healthy hacks employed to make this delicious cake. If you're someone who enjoys eating bananas slathered with peanut butter (or with a spoonful instead), then this one's for you.

Half-Baked Harvest

Easy Vanilla Sugar Dusted Macaroon Trees

These sugar-dusted macaroon trees taste as magnificent as they look! They're so easy to make and elevate any holiday party spread.

Saveur

White Chocolate Cream Cheese Mousse

Tangy cream cheese and sweet white chocolate balance one another out to create a tempting mousse that everyone will want to try.

Half-Baked Harvest

Honey Butter Stone Fruit and Blackberry Meringue Tart

This meringue tart is so buttery and flakey that you'll find yourself wanting to make it over and over again. When served with ice cream, it becomes a symphony of flavors and textures that is simply to die for!

Woman Scribbles

Filipino Style Egg Pie

What could be better than creamy and milky egg custard in a buttery and oh-so-flaky pie crust? This dish feels like comfort on a plate and truly can't be beat in the pie department.

Woman Scribbles

Ube Cupcakes with Ube Swiss Meringue Buttercream

These cupcakes are delicate and moist but packed with flavor. The ube swiss meringue buttercream is light and fluffy and serves as the perfect match to the purple-hued ube cake. Despite the flavor complexity, the recipe is surprisingly easy to make!

The Bossy Kitchen

Walnut Cake with Egg Yolk Glaze

This dessert is so easy to whip up but tastes simply luxurious. It is made with all-natural ingredients that allow you to indulge without guilt.

Takes Two Eggs

Dalgona Matcha

Not only is this Dalgona Matcha seriously delicious, but it's also a unique way to use up egg whites! This fluffy drink is going to become a morning must-have, trust me.

The Bossy Kitchen

Meringue Cheesecake

You may not find egg whites in the name of this recipe, but rest assured that they're in the meringue! How else do you explain the perfectly fluffy texture that sits atop the creamy goodness underneath?

Takes Two Eggs

Mango Cake

As much as we love eating delicious mangoes, we didn't know how tasty they are in cake form! This makes for the perfect spring or summer wedding dessert because it's light, yet flavorful!

Barley & Sage

Heart Shaped Macarons

These macarons are for the lovers! Whether you're planning a sweet Galentine's Day brunch for your friends or a romantic date night dinner for your beau, this recipe will win over any guest!

Amanda Wilens

Strawberry Lemon Cake

We've got another tasty summer treat for you to make! This strawberry lemon cake blends sweet and sour elements for an inviting taste that won't overpower tastebuds.

P.S. We highly recommend baking this cake for a baby or bridal shower!

Check out our baking classes and email newsletter for more egg white recipes!

This article has been updated.


Letting more than a decade pass without updates can quickly leave a home feeling outdated. That was the case for this Pasadena home, which remained frozen in the '80s and ’90s — until Amanda Leigh and Taylor Hahn of the celebrity-loved design firm House of Rolison stepped in to beautifully renovate and reimagine it. Their goal? To lean into the home's French-country architecture and transform the dated and dysfunctional space into a modern, light-filled space with moody vibes, vintage pieces, and luxury materials.

See the before and after of this French-inspired Pasadena renovation!

THE BEFORE

Courtesy of House of Rolison

Prior to the renovation, the home was stuck in the past with a lime green exterior and a late 80s/early 90s design aesthetic, including dated flooring, cramped rooms, wall-to-wall carpeting, bulky kitchen cabinets and granite (granite!) countertops. Drumroll on the after....

THE AFTER

Gavin Cater

I'm in awe of this transformation. Amanda and Taylor enhanced the home’s original features, including the floor-to-ceiling windows, slate roof with beautifully patinated gutters and accents, and kept original lighting fixtures while adding a fresh coat of paint and modern landscaping. Gorgeous!

THE BEFORE: ENTRY AND LIVING ROOM

Courtesy of House of Rolison

Before diving into the renovation, take a look at the original living area and entryway. The space feels not just overdone, but also cold and uninviting. The bulky staircases (plural) dominate the entry, while the divider adds nothing to the warmth or flow of the space. The furniture feels stuck in another era, and that tiny rug? A total eyesore!

THE AFTER: LIVING AREA

Gavin Cater

The entry now is stunning, designed to make a statement with one staircase removed to create a charming seating nook and a more open, inviting flow into the cozy living space. The home now has 20-foot ceilings, an elegant formal living room topped with custom-stained cedar paneling, and a bespoke bar area showcasing beautifully restored red oak cabinetry.

Gavin Cater

Elegant furnishings with modern silhouettes and warm, earthy tones instantly elevate the home's aesthetic. The restored fireplace adds warmth and character to the room, while a well-proportioned rug enhances the cozy, inviting space.

THE BEFORE: KITCHEN

Courtesy of House of Rolison

My eyes! This kitchen is a time capsule of outdated design, from the heavy granite countertops to the awkward circular layout that feels cramped and closed off.

Gavin Cater

"We opened up the kitchen to create a much more spacious and functional layout," says Taylor. "One of the key changes was expanding the kitchen’s visual space by installing double islands to create more prep space and an inviting area for family to gather."

Gavin Cater

They also removed a wall that separated the kitchen from the dining area, which not only opened up the space but also allowed natural light to flood in from both sides of the house. "The wood and paint-grade cabinetry allowed for contrast, and served as the perfect canvas for Calacatta Viola marble and absolute black slabs. The matte black hardware we used throughout the cabinetry and railings added a modern touch," adds Amanda.

Gavin Cater

Amanda and Taylor revamped the '90s kitchen into a chic and design-forward space by adding a moody breakfast nook for the family to gather. Find more banquette inspiration here!

Gavin Cater

Another challenge was optimizing the natural light — some rooms had very little natural light while others had plenty, so they introduced skylights where it was lacking. "We maximized the layout, lighting, and use of space while adding crucial design factors to make the property stand out," says Taylor.

Gavin Cater

Striking a balance between light and dark, the dining room features a rich brown and black palette that enhances its moody, earthy aesthetic while beautifully framing the outdoor views.

Gavin Cater

"The defining highlight for us is how we were able to preserve the home’s original charm while modernizing it to meet the physical and aesthetic needs of a modern family," says Amanda. The design duo kept the architectural integrity intact, but enhanced the functionality and warmth.

Gavin Cater

Taylor and Amanda restored the fireplace to its original brick, "but not how you might think," says Taylor. "We went through multiple processes to come to the final product. First attempting to remove paint, then micro cementing the fireplace, and at the very end we wanted to have the warmth and beauty of used brick. So we had to source used brick to satisfy the color and size needs for our room and proceeded to install."

Gavin Cater

Marble and matte black hardware was also used in the bathrooms, creating a cohesive and luxurious feel throughout the home.

Gavin Cater

"We chose natural materials like warm oak wood, used brick, and natural stones to blend with the moldings and historic feel of the home," says Amanda. The soft goods complement these harder materials with natural linens and vintage style rugs.

Gavin Cater

Touches of nature are woven throughout the home, subtly appearing in the artwork and décor.

Gavin Cater

The adorable kids room is a clean canvas with neutral decor and a rich amber-colored rug.

Gavin Cater

The outdoors is just as stunning. The pair upgraded the pool tile to a cle rust brown tile to modernize and warm up the pool. "We take landscaping our homes very seriously, so when it came to this home we had to go all out," says Amanda. Grass, olive trees, ficus, vines and more create a serene environment for years to come.

Gavin Cater

"The idea was to create a connection between the interior and the surrounding landscape — bringing the outside in," adds Taylor. "The seamless integration of indoor-outdoor living and the design of the kitchen as the heart of the home really stand out."

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The Whole Foods hot bar is a buffet of delicious possibilities. It’s truly packed with fresh, flavorful dishes that make grabbing a quick meal feel like a total treat! From perfectly-seasoned roasted veggies to indulgent comfort foods like meatloaf and cornbread, you’re never missing out on good eats when you stop by the Whole Foods hot bar. If you’re wondering which options are worth piling onto your plate, these 10 picks are the best of the best!

Scroll on to discover the 10 best finds at the Whole Foods hot bar for a tasty on-the-go meal!

Kaboompics / PEXELS

1. Rotisserie Chicken

Whole Foods’ rotisserie chicken is a staple you simply need to try. It’s juicy, flavorful, and perfectly-seasoned every single time! Some Whole Foods locations even give you a choice between lemon herb or garlic variations that add delicious depth of flavor. Plus, rotisserie chicken is always versatile – you can eat it on its own, shred it into salads, or pair it with any of the hot bar sides for a balanced, high-protein meal.

Foodie Factor / PEXELS

2. Tomato Basil Soup

Tomato Basil Soup is superior when it comes to comfort food, and Whole Foods’ recipe is no exception! It never fails to be rich, velvety, and packed with the perfect balance of sweetness from the tomatoes and freshness from the basil. It’s a fan-favorite because it pairs beautifully with everything from grilled cheese to pasta.

Public Domain Pictures / PEXELS

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

These aren’t the bland, mushy veggies you avoided as a kid. Whole Foods roasts their Brussels sprouts to crispy perfection, oftentimes serving them up with garlic, a balsamic glaze, or some Parmesan cheese! If you’re looking for nutritious, yet flavorful options from the Whole Foods hot bar, you’ve just gotta scoop up some of these sprouts and witness the magic for yourself.

FOX / PEXELS

4. Grilled Salmon

Whole Foods’ grilled salmon is a standout item on the hot bar because of its buttery texture and slightly-smoky char. It pairs exceptionally well with the aforementioned Brussels sprouts or even a grain-based side like quinoa!

Angela Khebou / PEXELS

5. Mac & Cheese

Whole Foods fans go nuts for their Mac & Cheese. It’s nothing but rich, creamy, and of course, loaded with cheese. It’s ooey and gooey, but typically, the top layer boasts a slight crispiness from baking. Yum. It makes the ultimate comfort food for picky kids and hungry adults alike!

Whole Foods

6. Classic Meatloaf

Don't knock meatloaf – especially Whole Foods’ meatloaf from the hot bar. This home-style dish is made with high-quality beef, flavorful seasonings, and a tangy tomato glaze that keeps you going back for more. And more! Shoppers love it so much because it brings back that nostalgia for a hearty, homemade dinner.

Whole Foods

7. Chicken Tikka Masala

This ready-to-eat Tikka Masala is so delicious. The chicken is always tender and absorbs the spicy sauce beautifully, making it a perfect dish when served over basmati rice. It’s a great way to enjoy Indian flavors without having to visit a restaurant (and pay restaurant prices).

Nadja M / PEXELS

8. Fried Rice

Whole Foods’ fried rice can’t be beat. Often made with fresh vegetables, scrambled eggs, and a touch of soy sauce for umami depth, it's a great side to scoop up for lunch or dinner.

Nano Erdozain / PEXELS

9. Baked Ziti

This comforting mix of al dente pasta, rich tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella, and ricotta for extra creaminess is one of the best items on Whole Foods’ hot bar. Cheese lovers, make way!

Valeria Boltneva / PEXELS

10. Nashville Hot Chicken

For those who can’t resist a little heat, the Nashville hot chicken at Whole Foods delivers a perfect balance of spice and crunch. Each bite is also slightly-sweet, so you’re going to get a balanced meal every time you stop by.

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