Welcome! I’m happy you’re here. You can call me Kate, one of many nicknames, or Kathryne, my full first name. Either way, I’m a self-taught cook from Oklahoma. I started this blog in 2010 and named it after my canine sidekick, Cookie. Now, I live in Kansas City with my husband and young daughter and work on this blog full-time. I love my job!
Follow Cookie and Kate
You should know that I’m totally obsessed with food. I daydream about new recipes. I devour cookbooks (I even wrote my own). I read up on food policy and nutrition. I love photographing food and hope my photos inspire you to step into the kitchen to cook a delicious, healthy meal.
Our cookbook, Love Real Food, is here! It has over 5,000 5-star reviews! Get Your Copy
Above all, I love eating food, especially while in the presence of good company. Good food in good company—does it get any better than that?
I believe that cooking should be fun and recipes, flexible. I choose not to cook meat, so all of the recipes on Cookie and Kate are vegetarian. I believe in eating whole foods, which are as close to their source as possible. I’m also an avid supporter of the occasional indulgence, and I laugh with friends over drinks as often as possible.
This blog is all about celebrating good food—real, sustainable food that delights the senses and nourishes the body.
About Cookie
Cookie is a jaunty spotted mutt who makes friends everywhere she goes. She is my eager four-legged assistant, my chief crumb catcher and the best companion a girl could ask for.
I adopted Cookie in the summer of 2009. She came with her name and nothing more. Whether she was named for being one smart cookie or for looking like cookies and cream, the name suits her well.
After five years of referring to Cookie as a “mystery mutt,” I finally caved and ordered a DNA test. My beloved, one-of-a-kind pup is half schipperke and half dachshund/Australian koolie mix.
Cookie left this world in 2023 after thirteen incredible years together. I miss her dearly, and this website will remain Cookie and Kate in honor of our time together.
Frequently Asked Questions
My cookbook, Love Real Food, can be purchased online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, BAM!, Bookshop.org, and Indigo. Digital editions of the book are available for purchase and download at iBooks and Amazon Kindle. Look for the book in your local bookstore or Barnes u0026 Noble. More book details here.
I use a Nikon Z6 with a Nikkor Z 50mm lens. Check out my food photography tips for more details. As of 2023, I’ve outsourced my photography to my wonderful video team so that I can spend more time with my family.
Check out my top 20 tips for food blogging and how to start a food blog, which includes design and web hosting tips.
Thank you for asking. Please refer to my photo and recipe policy for details.
Get in Touch!
Please contact me here or comment below! You’re also welcome to check out my press page for interviews and other features.
SIGN UP FOR EMAIL UPDATES
Just made your Roasted Butternut Squash soup. So easy, so delicious. I used the immersion blender, as you suggested. I love that thing! It seems like cleanup is easier with that. This is a filling and flavor packed dish, great for a fall or winter day. Served it with a piece of multigrain bread and a green salad. I’ll definitely make it again and share with friends. Thanks!
Thanks for the review!
Hi! I just got your cookbook for Christmas. Wow! Amazing! My family LOVES the Carrot Cake Breakfast cookies, seriously! We have had your Herbaceous Chickpea Salad, the Quinoa-Stuffed Sweet Potatoes (incredible!) and the Roasted Cauliflower Soup. My husband grew up in a meat and potatoes family, we are trying to go as close vegan as we can. Our 13-year old daughter happily eats everything we make, but my whole family feels better thanks to you! Please keep on writing and publishing. Your recipes have flavor, health and are fun to make. Thank you so much for sharing your ideas, inspirations and choices with those of us learning.
Sincerely,
Kathryn Ransom
I have been following your recipes for a year now and I have loved every single one. As a professional artist/ food artist, I know it is nice to hear when someone appreciates your work. I appreciate all the time and dedication you have put into sharing your art and recipes. I am becoming a better chef because of you.
Thank you!
Woop woop!
Hi Kate,have been making your roasted cauliflower soup,it is delicious so glad I saw it on the internet .
Marie (Manchester,uk)
Loving this book so far! Thank you so much. Just wish the section on toxic foods to dogs included a list for cats as well. :)
Hello Kate, I just made your Roasted Butternut Squash recipe last night mainly because I knew I had to cook it soon and also because I had shallots on hand! The squash was probably a good 2 pounds. I also added an apple and it tasted fabulous! Just like the above review, I used my immersion blender. I use it for many of my soups unless I’m making my Mom’s fabulous turkey or chicken soup! (sorry). It makes clean up easier. I was hesitant about your suggestion to use butter to replace the cream (I use milk or half & half) but it smoothed it out nicely. I used part veg part chicken broth as I ran out of veg. I couldn’t stop eating it as I took down my Christmas tree! I’m going to try your Roasted Cauliflower soup next as I have a huge one in my fridge! Thank you so much and Happy New Year!
Those potatoes look amazing! I knew Lucille! I started working for Harold Lowrey in 1986 right after i graduated from HS. I worked for him for 10 years. Great boss, amazing family!
Just finished dining on your Roasted Cauliflower, Freekah and Garlicky Tahini Sauce. It was so divinely yumtious and satisfying! Can’t wait to make the Vegetarian West African Peanut Soup. Your recipes came highly recommended and I totally concur!
Great! Let me know what you think of the soup. Thank you, Celia for your comment.
Just wanted to say I have loved every recipe I’ve made from the blog (and so has everyone I’ve made them for!) so i just ordered the cookbook as well!
Beautiful pictures, excellent directions, and delicious recipes. Thanks so much!
You are so sweet, Alicia! Thank you so much.
Hi Kate
I found you while wondering how to cook a quinoa the way my wife used to make it. Now I can make it the same way. Your recipes are wonderful , nutritious and healthy. And most of all you radiate a beautiful energy what makes the food even more nourishing.
Love your site
Blessings
Thank you! You are so sweet.
Thank you for your wonderful recipes. I have tried multiple now and have really enjoyed them. I have had recent interest in cooking much more and your recipes are just right, and not too difficult for my beginner self. My boxer is my cleaner upper too. thank you!
Thank you, for trying them! I am happy to hear you find them approachable as that is my goal. :)
Good morning Kate. I stumbled onto your website after wanting to cok steel cut oats. I’m enjoying them now with minced dates, walnuts, and banana. Was pleased to see you also are familiar with America’s Test Kitchen, one of my personal favorites. I’m thinking my daughter, also a foodie, would love your cookbook (s). My other daughter lives to bake and blog. Would you be so kind to suggest Christmas gifts for my blogger daughter. She is married with a Lil girl, Taya, with one due in Feb. Thanks so much and I’m thrilled to have found your blog today!
I am happy you stumbled as well, Julie! Yes, America’s Test Kitchen is such a great resource. You should check out my gift guides for your daughter! I hear my cookbook, Love Real Food, is a great gift. :)
https://capital-fly.pro/2017/love-real-food-gift-guide/%3C/a%3E%3Cbr /> https://capital-fly.pro/2017/2017-holiday-gift-guide/%3C/a%3E%3C/p%3E
I love your recipes and blog. We cook only vegetarian food and when I search for recipes, yours often come up. They are always great. My daughter just went vegan; so we will be trying new ones too. Can’t wait!
I’m glad to hear that, Bridget! If you haven’t tried my cookbook, I highly recommend it. :)
Thanx so much for your recipe……was delicious I served it with some pasta & on crackers with Brie….keep up the good work
You are welcome, Lois! Thanks for trying.
I LOVE your recipes! I only just discovered you and so have only made three so far: the red and green curries and the baked crispy tofu. All have been nuanced, flavorful dishes and I just had to write to say thank you.
Looking forward to more. Many many thanks.
Thank you, Carey! I’m happy you came across the blog. Those are 3 great ones to start off with. Love to hear what you think as you try more so feel free to comment on the recipes and leave your review!
I enjoy your recipes…i envy your life!
You are kind! Thank you, Laurie :)
Hi Kathryne!
My girlfriend was asking if a peanut sauce was to be bought or made as she was trying to work out a menu for New Years Eve and I happened upon your site and recipe… (We have been eating vegetarian for two weeks now after watching “What the Health”)
Your book looks like an inspiration to our new path and I just ordered it on Amazon!
I think my final push to order was the smile on Cookie’s face!
Thanks in advance for what I know will be a pure joy to make and share over a good glass of Pinot! ; )
~Michael
Thank you for your support! I appreciate it. Enjoy the cookbook. Cookie is cute. She gets me too :)
Hi Kate! My name is Sarah from NY. I just discovered your site after searching for easy vegetarian weeknight dinners. I have a 12 year old daughter who has decided to be a vegetarian, and at first to make things simple I started to ear vegetarian as well, only to discover I feel happier and healthier. I have struggled finding new recipes Anna likes, and I like, and cooking the same old rice and beans gets tired lol. The first dish I made by you was the quinoa and broccoli gratin I think. Anna loved it, and since then I have been hooked to all your recipes, and just ordered your book. Just wanted to say thank, you for being you and creating recipes that are earthy healthy whole and easy to make!!! Much love and gratitude to you and cookie xoxox
Thanks for stopping to say hi! I’m happy you found the blog and it’s been helpful for you. You will enjoy the book as well. A lot of great recipes and tips! As you try recipes, I would love to hear what you think. Feel free to comment in the comments section for the recipes. Enjoy the journey. :)
I remain an avid follower of your recipes, more and more of which I have been trying, especially since starting on a weight loss journey and lifestyle change.
All over London, UK you are getting more followers and now friends in Cape Town, South Africa are signing up to your recipes/website.
You have been posted on a WhatsApp group too…
Thanks for fab, healthy recipes. Debbie L
P.s. you are particularly popular because of Cookie and associated recipes for dogs! Thanks to Cookie too….
Well thank you, Debbie! Your words are so kind.
I’m very excited to discover your recipe blog. I’ve been vegetarian since 1986. I am a pretty good cook I’ve been told many times, and I’m always out to find new recipes. Thanks for sharing your wonderful recipes.
Welcome! Enjoy and I always love to hear your thoughts.
Hi Kate! I’ve been meaning to post a comment- I have Celiac’s Disease and am always in search of delicious gluten free recipes. I’ve made your kung pow brussel sprouts many times over the last year anand just made your peanut soup last night. Your cookbook is already in my amazon shopping cart! As someone who cooks my own meals 95% of the time because of my autoimmune disorders , it’s so refreshing to find so many wonderful recipes all in one place! Thank you for sharing your joy and love of cooking! – Shelley J. (Memphis, TN)
You’re so sweet, Shelly! I’m happy the blog as been a great resource for you. I can’t imagine navigating those waters. It can be tricky. I really appreciate your support! Happy cooking. :)
Trying to go vegetarian (2nd attempt after two years) and stumbled upon this site. I will try a couple of recipes and let you know how it goes! I love Cookie! She’s so adorable :-D I have 4 rescue girls so there’s never food on the floor (or plates).
Good luck! And yes, I would love to hear from you on the recipes you try. Thanks, Nadia!
I just made this soup and not only is it delicious my house smells great!!! And so super easy! Thank you!!! I give this 5 stars! Going to look for you cookbook next!
Thank you!
I just found your blog through a link Natural Grocers posted on its Facebook page (citrus “ceviche”). I usually eat vegetarian/vegan, and am happy to find a new resource for good recipes. Thank you!
Welcome! Let me know what you think when you try some recipes out.
Hi-
Been a fan of the blog for years. (I know I started reading before you quit your day job.) As many people have said, it is not only beautiful, but the recipes always turn out very well!
Question: I feel like you used to have a link to other similar food blogs you enjoy. Is that link still somewhere? Or, if not, can you recommend any?
Thanks!
Well thank you for following, Kim, since the beginning! :) There are a lot of great bloggers out there for sure. Check out my shop page! I have some cookbooks there on some of my favorites. https://capital-fly.pro/healthy-kitchen-essentials/%3C/a%3E%3C/p%3E
Hi! I’m a native Kansas Citian, glad you love this jewel of a town too! I tried the cheese enchilada recipe, and thank you, since I’ve been trying to come up with a good sauce( canned just doesn’t do it), and yours definately hits the mark. I’m not a vegetarian, but also love veggies and great recipes that include them. Thank you!
Well, hello neighbor! Happy the enchilada sauce hits the mark for you, Rob. Thanks for sharing!
I’ve been following your blog for a few years now. My husband got me your cookbook for dinner and it’s a staple in the kitchen–it’s my go-to for quality ideas. I hate to say it but I never follow a recipe exactly because I don’t plan ahead so well, but the inspiration is so helpful. I even have my 19 month old twins helping cook now! They’ve been gobbling up frittatas, roasted veggies with peanut sauce, and more! Thanks!
Thanks for your support! I know the feeling about not always following a recipe. I’m happy my recipes provide inspiration!
Just made the sweet potato burgers from your cookbook- excellent!
Yours is my go-to book, but what other vegetarian cookbooks inspire you that you recommend?
Thanks!
Charissa
Thanks for your wonderful blog. I love your recipes and Cookie looks like a sweet girl!
She is a sweet girl! She knows it too. :)
Hi Kate, I came across your Thai Pineapple Fried Rice and made it last night to rave reviews from my early bird dinner for four. Wow and Wow! Now I am obsessing over your blog and recipes. Delighted to find your wise, fabulous, humorous work. With a bow and cheers! Thank you.
Welcome! I’m happy you came across. :)
I’m a 76 yr. old widower, just moved to PA, taking up Tai Chi and Yoga and yet another stint at vegetarian cooking/eating. I’m glad I came upon your site.
I see you got Cookie several years ago and I’m hoping she’s still helping you in the kitchen and in great health.
If you have your health, good friends, good food and, especially a great dog, you’re all set!
I agree! Thank you, Roger.
I just now came across your site and I love it! Vegetarian recipes tend to be too bland or not tasty to me. But not anymore! Thank you for bringing veggie cooking into my kitchen and thank you for introducing me to you and Zcookie. You’re both tops!!
Welcome, Nancy! When you try recipes, I would love to hear from you so feel free to leave a comment and review. Happy cooking :)
Hi Cookie and Kate! I’m 10 years old and live in Canada. I love to bake and cook so when I found your website I was so happy! I love how you take delicious recipes and make them healthy. My entire family loved the Best Lentil Soup recipe and I especially liked the Thai Red Curry recipe. I think Cookie is so cute. I have two dogs of my own. Thanks for making delicious, healthy recipes!
Well thank you for taking the time! So fun to star cooking at your age. Cookie is adorable. I will be sure to let her know she has another fan! :)
Kate,
I was raised in the KC area and miss it desperately at times (I’ve been in CO for a decade). My three sisters and their families live there so I still get back to visit a few times a year. I first sampled one of your recipes because of the nostalgia alone, but your wonderful and healthy recipes really hit home in taste, too.
I scroll through a lot of blogs as part of my initial baking process and you seem to find the balance where flavors aren’t sacrificed, but neither is the waistline. I especially enjoy your baked goods–your banana bread and apple muffins are perfect for a chilly day. I appreciate how ‘clean’ the page is and your tasty recipes over the years.
Thank you, Sarah! I appreciate the support. I’m glad I have another KC fan (even if you live in CO now). :)
I love your blog! I just made the sweet potato chili it’s really good I can’t wait to feed my family tonight and see what they think. Thank you Kate!
Many of your recipes are great! But, greek salad is made with every ingrediant you said but…not lettuce!!! I have been to Greece twice & a good Greek restaurant and the is never any lettuce included in the salad! Sooooo, just delete the lettuce & you’ll get a the Greek salad you were lookimg for.
Keep up the good work!!
Just made your Chopped Salad. Looks colorful. Can’t wait to try it later–
Hi Kate,
Wasn’t sure where to post this, so I decided that this might be the best place – I wanted to thank you so much for your amazing blog! It has helped me to appreciate eating real food, and has made my transition to a healthier diet so much easier. When you launched your app you mentioned “I had no idea that you wanted an app so badly (why didn’t you tell me?”, so I just wanted to run an idea that I had by you… I was wondering if you have ever considered writing a short stack edition? Something Mexican inspired would be even great, like black beans/ lime / cilantro! I really feel that this could spread your message of Real Vegetarian Food to an even larger audience!
Thanks once again for all your giving.
Hi Samantha! I hadn’t thought to write a short stack, but that’s a great idea! I’ll keep it in mind. It’s hard to find the time to take on extra projects!
I was taking the ferry last week from Victoria to Vancouver. While aboard we had their spicy lentil soup for lunch. (BC Ferries is famous for good soup.) Loved it and began searching for a recipe. That’s how I found your blog. Your version is sensational and the lemon really finishes it off. BTW, I use canned Italian tomatoes. Way better than the standard domestic brands. Yesterday I made your sweet potato, kale and chickpea soup. Another winner. I really like the texture of those wheat berries. My wife and I had a neighbour over for dinner and the soup was a big hit. Thanks for doing all this!
I’m so glad you found the blog, Jim! Happy to hear the recipes have been enjoyable!
We made the coconut bacon today. It is absolutely delicious. We used it in the BLT recipe and we were flabbergasted how good it was. Thank you so much for this recipe. Five star rating!!!
Thank you, Diana!
Made the veggie enchilada casserole tonight – took a few liberties with the recipe (like just one layer of tortillas). It was DELICIOUS! A big hit with the whole family. Murphy & Sadie (our pups) were the happy recipients of a couple sweet potato pieces that hit the floor.
Cookie loves when that happens too, Marty! Thanks for sharing.
Hello there! Huge fan of the blog. I’m not a vegetarian but love your recipes. Currently searching for a decent diet to lose weight. Are your recipes structured for weight lose? Thank you.
Thank you! I don’t focus on diets or weight loss with the blog and recipes. Instead, wholesome, healthy living and eating. I think making positive changes to your eating will show results!
I am a Type1 diabetic and was looking for breakfast options and found your overnight oats. I’m in love! They are so good! I have always had hot oats but living on the Outer Banks of NC it’s nice to have a cool breakfast in the summer. I will differently be checking out more of your recipes.
Kelly B.
Thank you! Let me know what you think, Kelly.
I just came across your blog when I was looking for a recipe for gucomolie and I saw the picture of your dog and he is gorgeous dog and where did you get him from?
Miriam
I will tell Cookie you said so. I rescued her about 9 years ago. :)
I love all your recipes and your dog!
Laura K. T. CCC-SLP
Thank you, Laura!
Hi,
Just found your recipe online on my phone, while shopping at the grocery store for stuff to make lentil soup. My twin daughters just went vegan in January of this year, so it has been an adjustment finding recipes so we can all eat meals together. Like the twins said, “It was the bomb!” A mouthful of flavors. Thanks for the great recipe!
Hilario (twins dad)
The bomb, I will take it! Thank you, Hilario for sharing.
Hello C&K!
I enjoy making many of your recipes! Do have you any recommendations for soups of yours that freeze best? I have a health event in the future to prepare for that will take me off my feet for a spell, and I’m planning on making several of your soups ahead of time so that my family and I can have easy and healthy dinners on hand. (Our favorites are your spicy black bean, minestrone, the Mexican quinoa stew, and the tomato soup from your cookbook.) Any recommendations for soups that have frozen successfully?
All my best to Cookie!
Many thanks!
RachelH
That’s a good question, Rachel! I wish I knew for sure which recipes freeze well, but I haven’t tried freezing all of them. I think my enchiladas and lasagna would be good choices(I know you asked for soup), as would my lentil soup and quinoa soup.
Thanks for the suggestions! They’re very helpful! I’ll definitely try freezing the quinoa soup. Your veggie enchiladas are a house favorite. I’ve never thought of freezing them. I suppose that I’ll wrap them in parchment paper before baking them and freeze them and unwrap them for baking. I could do something similar with the lasagna portions, but wrapping up pieces after baking… Hmmm. Does that make sense?
We love your banana bread recipe! Just one question: what method do you use for measuring out flour?
Thank you, Beth! I use the spoon and swoop method—spoon the flour into the cups and level the top with a knife. That’s the most standard method. Hope that helps!
Hi Kate, ran across your site a year or so ago. I am also a dog lover, so ended up following you two, bought your cookbook and am highly satisfied with every recipe I have made so far, so fresh and flavorful. Keep up the good work. Take care.
Thank you!
I’m new to your blog, heard about your cucumber salad from another blog. I love to cook, have trouble actually following recipes so I usually look at them and then forge ahead. I’m so glad to read about your “rescue” dog. Everyone should have a “previously owned” dog if they like dogs. We’ve got an elderly black lab from the pound. I’ve often thought about blogging about my life in the boondocks of Oregon. But as I’m retired (school teacher) I hesitate to embark on something that would be anything like “work”
Thank you!
Hi Kate,
After making a few of your recipes, I’m Hooked ! They are tasty, healthy, plant based not to mention appealing to all my senses.
The “can’t wait to dig in” factor is highly present.
Thank you for being food obsessed, makes at least a few of us !
From Montreal,
Merci !
Yes! I love to hear that. :)
Great Blog
Thank you!
Hi,
Could you please add some of the Vegetarian Salads for the Sports persons.
It will be really helpful.
Thank You
Damo
Hi Kate! As a fellow vegetarian, I just love your blog! I am a college student just starting the figure out the glory that is food (both in making and eating), and your recipes have been a true inspiration. My (black and white beloved mutt) Cookie is always watching from the kitchen doorway as I cook up your recipes! Thanks for everything!
Hi Kate! I’ve been using your app weekly for months and am very excited to start trying your new recipes with my baby who just started eating. I am a huge fan :). I was wondering how often you update your recipes on your app. I saw your waffles on instagram and using the app is so convenient I would want more of your amazing recipes on it!
Hi! I’m so glad you are enjoying the app. I’m currently working to get new recipes added and a schedule for updates. Stay tuned!
Hi Kate,
I was looking for salad recipes the other day and came across your web site. I’ve been trying to go vegan/vegetarian for a while. I really need to make changes for my health and weight. Your recipes really looked interesting and they all looked so appetizing. I bought your book from Amazon, and I’m very impressed with it. The recipes are easy and the ingredients are easy to find. A lot of times recipes sound really great, but when you make them they don’t taste as good as they look on paper. However, I made your Crunchy Thai Peanut and Quinoa salad last night, and it was amazing. I’m looking forward to making a lot more of your recipes. It just goes to show that you can still eat healthy and not feel deprived. Keep up the good work!
p.s.: Cookie is adorable:-)
Hooray! I’m glad it looked and tasted just as good. Thanks so much for sharing, Robyn!