ML Interest Tag: greek

The Top Baby Names That Lead to Success, According to Study

by Tinybeans Team

We took a lot of care when choosing our kids’ names, but according to research done by University of California psychology professor Albert Mehrabian, some names lead to success more than others. In Professor Mehrabian’s book, The Baby Name Report Card: Beneficial and Harmful Baby Names, baby names were judged as good or bad depending on other people’s perception of a chosen name. Each name was ranked on how successful, ethical, caring, and fun they seemed. Scroll below to see the results.

Most Successful Girl Names

1. Madeline (From Magdalene, meaning “of Magdala”)
2. Kate (Short form of Katherine, meaning “pure”)
3. Catherine (meaning “pure”)
4. Susan (Hebrew origin, meaning “lily”)
5. Lauraine (English origin, symbolic of honor and victory”)
6. Victoria (From the Latin vincere, meaning “to conquer”)
7. Katherine (meaning “pure”)
8. Elizabeth (Form of Elisabeth, meaning “God is my oath”)
9. Morgan (From the Old Welsh Morcant, meaning “sea” and “circle”)
10. Jacqueline (A feminine form of Jacques, meaning “heel” or “supplanter”)

Most Successful Boy Names

1. Madison (From a surname, meaning “son of Maud”)
2. Thomas (Greek origin, meaning “twin’)
3. Parker (Originally a surname, meaning “keeper of the park”)
4. Kenneth (From Scottish Gaelic names meaning “handsome”)
5. David (From the Hebrew Dawid meaning “beloved” or “favourite”)
6. Robert (Germanic, meaning “famous” or “bright)
7. James ( meaning “heel” or “supplanter”)
8. Christopher (meaning “christ” and pherein, meaning “to bear”)
9. Ross (Originally a surname, meaning “headland”)
10. Steven (Derived from the Greek word stephanos, meaning “crown” or “garland”)

Note: This story was originally published in April 2017.

Once baby is on the outside, capture all your little future CEO’s most exciting moments—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.

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23 Trader Joe’s Products That Taste Even Better in the Air Fryer

by Kate Loweth

Having an air fryer was a big deal a few years ago, but you may find yourself fresh out of ideas for whipping up dinner that everyone hasn’t eaten 100 times by now. There are only so many times you can “fry” up zucchini sticks, after all. That’s where your favorite neighborhood market steps in to save the day. From Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken in the air fryer to Trader Joe’s mac and cheese bites, there are tons of quick ways to put a new twist on your favorite frozen foods when you have an air fryer to work with. Get ready to get inspired with these Trader Joe’s air fryer foods just in time for Super Bowl Sunday (or any night you need a quick dinner solution!).

Trader Joe’s Appetizers for the Air Fryer

Mini Chicken Tikka Samosas

Trader Joe's air fryer food like Samosas are delicious

Sure, you can pop these in a conventional oven, or you can toss them in the air fryer for an extra crispy take on Tikka Samosas.

Southwest Style Chicken Quesadilla

Nab yourself some guac and cook these babies up in the air fryer for a quick lunch the whole family will love. 

Herbaceous Cheesy Bites

We love these flavorful bites that pack a nice crunch. These have just the right amount of spices to balance out the cheesy goodness and heat up well in the air fryer. 

Ratatouille Bites

These veggie-forward bites are lovely crisped up in your air fryer and then dunked in some tzatziki sauce. Trust us. The kids won't even catch on that they're packed with veggies. 

Chicken & Chimichurri Empanadas

Bake these up in your air fryer and serve with your favorite salsa and you will have some happy guests at your next family party. 

Seasoned Waffle Cut Fries

You know that ketchup sprinkles everyone is raving about? Shake some on these fries after they've had some time in the air fryer to crisp up. No dipping sauce needed. 

Coconut Shrimp

These are a kid favorite and perfect when served with the Thai Sweet Ginger Sauce for dipping. They get extra crispy in the air fryer which we love. 

Fried Olive Bites

Not a fan of olives? You will be after air frying these olive bites that are packed with cheese. Yum and yum. 

Colorful Carrot Coins

Have a sweet craving but looking to go more healthy? These colorful carrots are a quick air fryer option and a great way to test out all those dips that TJs is known for. 

Herbs de Provence Potato Wedges

If you haven't tried these savory bites, definitely add them to your rotation when you cook up a steak on the grill. The air fryer does wonders for its crispy outside and soft inside. 

Mini Beef Tacos

Trader Joe's air fryer food like mini beef tacos are good for the Super Bowl or any weeknight

Keep these mini favorites (and their twin sister the chicken version) on hand for when the kid hangry hits. They cook up in a flash via the air fryer and you'll have happy kids in no time. 

Tempura Shrimp

You can never go wrong with extra crispy tempura and these shrimp will come out finger lickin' good.

Mac & Cheese Bites

Put Trader Joe's mac and cheese bites in the air fryer

If you haven't tried Trader Joe's mac and cheese bites in the air fryer, you don't know what you're missing. 

Vegetable Spring Rolls

Avoid the nastiness that is a soggy spring roll when you pop these babies in the air fryer. Sweet ginger sauce is its BFF. 

Scallion Pancakes

Brighten up the flavor in a big way by tossing Trader Joe's scallion pancakes in the air fryer for crispy perfection. They go great with the mandarin orange chicken or really are pretty much the best at any time. 

Kibbeh

Kibbeh is a Trader Joe's appetizer
Trader Joe's

Hearty and flavorful, this Kibbeh appetizer will become a family fave. Made with ground beef, onions and seasonings, these appetizers pair well with almost any dip and are great for the air fryer.

Crispy Vegetable Pouches

These only come out around the holidays and are a delicious, vegetable-forward option with excellent results in the air fryer. 

Trader Joe’s Air Fryer Entrees & Sides

Trader Joe's Salmon

Trader Joe's air fryer salmon
Trader Joe's

Salmon is pretty much our favorite in the air fryer. Top it with your favorite teriyaki or barbecue sauce and dinner will be on the table in minutes. 

Trader Joe's Hashbrowns

trader joe's hashbrowns
Trader Joe's

Be warned, these are addictive! And it's super easy to cook them up in the air fryer whenever the cravings hit. Top with a fried egg for an easy breakfast. 

Impossible Chicken Nuggets

Trader Joe's air fryer food like impossible chicken nuggets are good for dinner

It's darn near impossible to not love these after they've taken a trip in the air fryer.

Breaded Fried Ravioli

Breaded fried ravioli are a yummy Trader Joe's appetizer
Trader Joe's

You had us at "fried!" Kid-friendly and easy to whip up in the air fryer, these fried ravioli are made with semolina pasta, and five kinds of cheese that includes ricotta, mild Monterey Jack, mozzarella, Asiago, and Parmesan.

Cauliflower Pancakes

Sneak in that cauliflower with no problemo by serving these air fried.

Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken

Put Trader Joe's orange chicken in the air fryer

This dish has long been a fan-fave product, but air frying it? It's next-level delish.

Additional reporting by Karly Wood

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16 Trader Joe’s Appetizers to Serve During the Holidays This Year

by Kate Loweth

These Trader Joe’s appetizers are the easiest way to look like a gourmet chef in 15 minutes or less

Whether you are getting together with your family or having a mom’s night sans kids, you’ll definitely need some amazing appetizers to whip up this holiday season. Trader Joe’s has easy appetizers ready to go in their frozen section along with easy-to-make recipes from dips you can only find this time of year. These Trader Joe’s appetizers will save you tons of time during the holidays this year and will impress the pickiest of guests.

Mini Veggie Samosas

Mini veggie samosas are a popular Trader Joe's appetizer

A popular Trader Joe's appetizer, these two-bite samosas are filled with a curry-infused mixture of peas, carrots, potatoes, lentils, and onions. Wrapped in a flaky phyllo crust, the scent alone will have guests wandering toward the appetizer table. 

Fried Olive Bites

These tiny bites only come out at the holidays and they are filled with cheese for the perfect bite on your appetizer buffet. 

Brie en Croute

If you require an excuse to eat a brie en croute, we will give you one. This frozen Trader Joe's appetizer is only available during the holidays which means you have to grab at least one. 

Red Pepper, Cranberry & Walnut Dip

This seasonal dip is a new Trader Joe's appetizer in 2022.

Sweet, spicy, and tart, this seasonal dip from Trader Joe's will make a statement at holiday parties this year. Add it to your charcuterie board and pair it with a crostini or veggies! 

Related: Check Out These Trader Joe’s Frozen Foods with a Cult Following

Herbaceous Cheesy Bites

We love these flavorful bites that pack a nice crunch. These have just the right amount of spices to balance out the cheesy goodness. 

Chicken & Chimichurri Empanadas

Bake these up in your oven and serve with your favorite salsa and you will have some happy guests at your next family party. 

Pastry Bites with Feta Cheese & Caramelized Onions

We love these any time of the year as they are easy to crisp up in your oven and are perfectly bite-sized. 

Crispy Vegetable Pouches

These only come out around the holidays and are a delicious, vegetable-forward option. 

Korean Pancakes

Trader Joe's

Perfect for brunch, these cinnamon-filled Korean pancakes are flaky, chewy and irresistible. Kids and adults will love each and every bite.

Find them in the freezer aisle.

Coconut Shrimp

These are a kid favorite and perfect when served with the Thai Sweet Ginger Sauce for dipping. 

Chicken Cilantro Mini Wontons

These are great pan-fried or boiled and the kids will definitely gobble them up. 

Breaded Fried Ravioli

Breaded fried ravioli are a yummy Trader Joe's appetizer
Trader Joe's

You had us at "fried!" Kid-friendly and easy to whip up, these fried ravioli are made with semolina pasta, and five kinds of cheese that includes ricotta, mild Monterey Jack, mozzarella, Asiago and Parmesan.

Related: 16 Easy Trader Joe’s Recipes That Take 15 Minutes or Less

Kibbeh

Kibbeh is a Trader Joe's appetizer
Trader Joe's

Hearty and flavorful, this Kibbeh appetizer will become a family fave. Made with ground beef, onions and seasonings, these meatballs pair well with almost any dip.

Find for just $4.79 in the freezer section.

Chicken Soup Dumplings

While these are technically an appetizer, we see nothing wrong with whipping up the entire box for dinner! Each one of these chicken soup dumplings is made with chicken, onions, green onions and a flavorful broth and can be found in the freezer section.

Mini Quiche Duo

Mini Quiche Duo are a classic Trader Joe's appetizer

Perfect for brunch or lunch, this box of mini quiche duos includes both mushroom and Swiss cheese and bacon and sweet onion options. Bake until golden brown, and enjoy thoroughly.

Each box is just $3.99 in the freezer section.

Related: 20 Things from Trader Joe’s That Picky Eaters Will Love

Creamy Spinach & Artichoke Dip

Forget making your own spinach artichoke dip, and snag this frozen version instead! All it takes is a simple warm-up before you're enjoying it with tortilla chips. This is a nice change to the traditional onion dips you find at family get-togethers.

You can't beat the $2.99 price tag on this dip!

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16 Easy One-Pot Dinners Perfect for Busy Weeknights

by Emily Myers

One-pot meals come together easily and are ideal for quick family meals

Quick and delicious weeknight dinners plus easy cleanup? Yes, please. The fewer dishes to clean during the week, the better—which is why easy one-pot meals really hit the spot. Below, we’ve rounded up some amazing one-pot dinners that come together quickly, and our list includes everything from one-pot pasta recipes to stir-fries and soups. Get ready to break out your Dutch oven or your Instant Pots! 

One-Pot Baked Potato Soup

When it comes to one-pot meals, soup is a classic (and a kid favorite). This potato soup from Sweet and Savory Meals has all the good things like bacon, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and green onions. Even better, it can be made in an Instant Pot. If you’d rather take your time, check out her slow cooker version here. 

Easy One-Pot Baked Chicken and Rice Pilaf

Juicy chicken thighs and tasty rice come together in this easy one-pot meal that’s perfect for a Sunday dinner. Get the recipe from The Wooden Skillet.

One-Pan Pork Chops with Apples and Onions

This one-pan pork chop recipe from The Chunky Chef is lighter and healthier than a lot of pork chop recipes out there, and it doesn’t skimp on flavor. Even better, it comes together in 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal idea.

Beef Stir Fry

Beef stir fry is an easy one pot meal for families
Spend with Pennies

You can’t go wrong with a lightning-fast stir fry, and this version from Spend with Pennies is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Everything cooks together in one pan, you can adapt ingredients depending on your family's preferences, and the flavorful soy-based sauce is light but delicious. 

Greek Dutch Oven Roast Chicken

dutch oven roast chicken one-pot dinner recipe
The Greek Foodie

Sunday dinner just got even better thanks to this drool-worthy recipe from The Greek Foodie A whole roast chicken might sound like a daunting project, but it’s an easy one-pot meal to pull together. Plus, since there are potatoes at the bottom of the pot to catch all the chicken juices, you don’t need to worry about making separate sides. 

Chicken Parmesan Pasta

An easy one pot meal is this chicken parmesan pasta
Erin Lives Whole

We’re always craving chicken parmesan, but it’s a ton of work to make the traditional version with breaded cutlets. That’s why we love this recipe from Erin Lives Whole—you get all those delicious flavors with a fraction of the effort. 

Veggie Pasta One Pot Wonder

This veggie pasta recipe is an easy one pot meal
Apron Strings

It makes sense that if you cook pasta in water, you can switch out the water for stock, add chopped tomatoes, onion, garlic, and spices and the pasta will cook just as well with the bonus of a self-made sauce. That's what's going in this super simple veggie pasta dish featured in our archives. Garnish with grated cheese, and dinner's done.

Crock Pot Sweet Pork

crock pot sweet pork one-pot dinner
Our Table for Seven

If you don't have a Crock Pot, this sweet pork recipe from our archives might be the incentive you need to get one. With three simple ingredients in one pot, it works great when you've been raced off your feet and want an easy dinner option. Plus, it makes great leftovers. Serve with salsa and salad, and you're done.

Skillet Steak and Potatoes

skillet steak and potatoes is an easy one pot meal
Carlsbad Cravings

Steak and potatoes are a staple almost everyone (even picky eaters) will like, and this version from Carlsbad Cravings comes together in just 30 minutes. Plus, the garlic herb butter gives it something special. Serve with your kids' favorite veggies and you'll have a hearty and easy one-pot dinner.

 

Related: 19 One-Pot Pasta Recipes That Keep Dirty Dishes to a Minimum

Mexican Chicken and Rice

This Mexican chicken and rice is an easy one pot meal
Erin at Well Plated

Here's an easy one-pot dinner you can make with pantry staples. The dish from Well Plated uses canned black beans, canned diced tomatoes, and brown rice. You'll also need some fresh veggies, but the recipe is super versatile so use what you have. Skip the jalapeño if that's too much for the little ones, and top with shredded cheese, avocado, salsa, and sour cream for a perfect weeknight dinner.

Lemony Greek Chicken

Boulder Locavore

A dish of braised chicken thighs that takes little effort and includes sautéed onions and potatoes must be one of the best ways to end a long day. The only fiddly bit is flipping the meat when you sear it at the beginning, the rest is easy as pie. The recipe from Boulder Locavore has a Greek twist with feta and olives but you can always switch out the olives for raisins if you think the kids will prefer a sweeter taste.

Baked Risotto

My Little Larder

Risotto doesn't have to mean you are tied to a hot stove while the kids chant about how hungry they are. With baked risotto, you can do 10 minutes of prep and get the same big pot of comforting gooey rice for dinner with less than half the effort. Head over to My Little Larder for this recipe where you just have to check and stir every ten to fifteen minutes. Open to lots of variations, just serve with some grated cheese and you've got an easy one-pot family dinner.

Quick One Pot Beef Stew

NerdyMamma

It's hard to beat a hearty and comforting beef stew and this dish from NerdyMamma is a real crowd-pleaser. The ground beef is browned with fresh or canned veggies and mixed with tomato sauce for a quick weekday dinner in one pot. Head to NerdyMamma for the recipe and serve with crackers or cornbread.

One-Pot Coconut Chicken and Rice

One Lovely Life

A simple recipe bursting with flavor makes for one delicious dish, courtesy of Emily over at One Lovely Life. In under 30 minutes, you'll have a chicken and rice dish your family will be begging you to make at least once a week.  

One-Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken

Cream, garlic, and chicken all come together in this savory and easy one-pot meal that’s guaranteed to delight everyone in your home. If you’ve got kids who don’t love sauce, set aside a piece of chicken and serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Get the recipe from Carlsbad Cravings.

30-Minute Shrimp, Peas, and Rice

A 30-minute easy-one pot meal that requires zero chopping, tastes great, and can be doubled for larger families? Yes, please! This shrimp meal from Skinny Taste will be an immediate favorite.

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15 REAL (Not Fake) Presidential Facts

by Ayren Jackson-Cannady

If you ask a kid who has the hardest job on the planet, they might say something like, “Fireman, Wonder Woman, and the president.” Touché. Being the president isn’t for the faint of heart; only those with superhero qualities need apply. The fun facts below prove that presiding over the Oval Office takes a special (and sometimes quirky) kind of person. Read on to check them out!

iStock

1. Barack Obama: I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream?
Who doesn't love a scoop of ice cream on a hot summer day? Our 44th president, that's who. He worked in a Baskin-Robbins ice cream shop as a teenager and now can't stand ice cream.

2. Bill Clinton: You've Got Mail
While sending and receiving email is now a run-of-the-mill thing in most households, Bill Clinton was the first person ever to send an email from the White House.

3. Gerald Ford: Paging Frank Underwood?
Seemingly out of a Hollywood (or NetFlix) script, Gerald Ford was the first person to be both vice president and president without ever being elected by the public. How? He was appointed vice president when Spiro Agnew resigned from his post, and then he succeeded to the presidency when Nixon resigned due to the Watergate scandal.

4. Martin Van Buren: Born in the USA  
While it is currently a law that you have to be born in the U.S. (or a US Territory) to become the President, Martin Van Buren was the first President who was actually a US Citizen. All previous presidents were born British subjects.

5. James Garfield: America's Got Talent  
Most people only speak or write one or two languages at a time. James Garfield could write Latin with one hand and Greek with the other hand simultaneously. #coolpartytrick

fun facts about George Washington, the person in this picture
unsplash

6. George Washington: Party of 1?
George Washington was the only president that wasn't affiliated with a political party? Washington was neither a Republican nor a Democrat.

7. Thomas Jefferson: Lights, Camera...
Today, the president is on television or making a speech almost daily, but did you know that Thomas Jefferson had such stage fright that he only gave two speeches during his entire presidency?

8. John Tyler: Big Poppa  
John Tyler was the father of 15 (!!!) kids, more than any other president.

9. Teddy Roosevelt: That's Going to Sting a Little in the Morning  
An excellent hunter and athlete, Roosevelt was notorious for having a tough guy image. Once, while giving a speech, he was shot in the chest during an assassination attempt. He continued AND FINISHED the speech with the bullet still lodged in his chest.

10. James Madison: Hey, Down Here!
For some reason, presidents are characteristically tall figures. James Madison was definitely an exception. He only stood 5 feet 4 inches and never weighed more than 100 pounds.

Ern M. via Yelp

11. Abraham Lincoln: Try, Try, and Try Again
Lincoln lost five separate elections before he became President of the U.S. (Never, ever, ever give up!)

12. Herbert Hoover: Hide and Seek Champion
Herbert Hoover gave all the White House servers strict instructions to hide from him whenever he passed by. Those who failed to do so were fired. Yikes.

13. Chester Arthur: Night Owl
We all know that being the president means you probably have a lot on your mind. Arthur always went for late-night walks and rarely was in the bed before 2 a.m.

14. Dwight D. Eisenhower: Pancakes, Dave?
One of the most important positions in the White House now is being the official White House chef. However, Eisenhower was a skilled chef himself and was known for cooking delicious vegetable soup, steaks and cornmeal pancakes.
 
15. Harry S. Truman: Is it Sean? Stillman?
Harry S. Truman's name is very distinguished. Mainly because of the 'S.' that is included with his name. Did you know Truman doesn't actually have a middle name? It's just the letter 'S'.

 

—Ayren Jackson-Cannady
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That’s Amore! Atlanta’s Best Pizza

by Tinybeans Team

Atlanta may be known for its peaches, but we can add amazing pizza to the list thanks to some world-class establishments that know a thing or two about making dough! From artisan pizzas in Midtown to authentic New York slices in Milton, to gluten-free crusts and vegan toppings, we’ve found the best pizza spots in Atlanta that are perfect for the whole family. Scroll down to see where to fall in amore with some gooey goodness.

Antico Pizza

Han K. via Yelp

Atlanta's standard-bearer for authentic Italian-style pizza now has multiple locations. The original Antico, located in owner Giovanni Di Palma's Little Italia neighborhood just north west of Georgia Tech, boasts the highest score in Zagat's first-ever pizza survey of "Best Pizza in 23 U.S. Cities" (beating out New York City), a Zagat Atlanta food score of 28 (making it the highest scored restaurant in the city), and they took home the International "Top in Class" Award for the United States during a worldwide, two-day pizza festival in Salerno, Italy.

1093 Hemphill Ave. NW
Atlanta, GA 30318

3185 Avalon Blvd.
Alpharetta, GA 30009

Online: littleitalia.com

Crust

Robert C. via Yelp

There's not a lot of explaining on this one, except that if you're looking for the perfect pairing of light and airy crust, fresh toppings, tangy sauce and the perfect amount of cheese, this is the place. Located just down the block from the adorable (and chain-free) Alpharetta downtown square, Crust is worth a visit. 131 S Main St. Alpharetta, GA 30009 770-777-6789 Online: crust-pizzeria.com

Glide Pizza

Vyvy T. via Yelp

Located next to Krog Street Market, this pizza spot is known for its authentic NY style slice and the side of homemade ranch that comes with it. They make their own in-house mozzarella, sauces made fresh daily, and a half-sourdough crust that ferments for 48 hours for the ultimate flavor and light, crispy texture.

660 Irwin St. NE
Atlanta, GA 30312
Online: glidepizza.com

Vintage Pizzeria

Helen K. via Yelp

This neighborhood pizza joint serves up thin crust pizza with super fresh ingredients, a Greek salad that's the bomb, plus killer subs and a rotation of awesome craft beers. Don't forget to grab some ice cream at The Frosty Caboose, just across the street, for dessert! Now with locations in Dunwoody and Milton.

5434 Peachtree Rd. Ste. 103
Chamblee, GA 30341
Online: vintagepizzeria.com

Piubello

Raymond R. via Yelp

For your own slice of Italian cooking, visit Piu Bello Pizzeria for mouthwatering pizza, plus pasta, calzones, or other traditional Italian entrees. They also offer convenient delivery services, for bonus points.

3330 Piedmont Rd. next to Disco Kroger
Atlanta, GA 30305
Online: piubellopizza.com

Blue Moon Pizza

Blue Moon Pizza via Yelp

Blue Moon Pizza is a casual, full-service pizza restaurant with a full bar to top it all off that began in Atlanta in 2003. Their thin crispy crust pie comes in the kid-friendly standard-bearers of cheese and pepperoni, but you'll find creative specialty pizzas (like Thai chicken) that will suit adventurous palates. We love the family meal deal ($40 for a family of 4), and their take-and-bake options. 

Multiple locations
Online: bluemoonpizza.com

Savage Pizza

Laure J. via Yelp

Savage is a Little 5 Point standard known for the perfect balance of not-too-thick but not-too-thin crust and cheese. For those whose kids are into super heroes, be sure to scope out the indoor decor. They'll be inspired. Plan ahead though, because you can only pick up whole pies at Savage.

484 Moreland Ave. NE
Little Five Points

115 Laredo Drive
Avondale Estates

Online: savagepizza.com

Plant Based Pizzeria

Erin S. via Yelp

Plant Based Pizzeria serves vegan and gluten free pizza made from the freshest ingredients. Their vegan pizza is made from spelt flour, and they have loads of great tasting, healthy pizza options. Try the Georgia Peach, made with roasted basil pizza sauce, vegan mozzarella cheese, spicy beyond sausage, roasted peaches, red onions, and jalapeños.

730 Barnett St. NE
Atlanta, GA 30306

Online: plantbasedpizzeria.net

Big Bang Pizza

Ant S. via Yelp

If you're into great pizza AND dancing robots, then you've found your spot. Located on Buford Hwy., this spot is easy to access and interesting to visit. Pepper the hostess robot greets you, and after you order, server robots serve you. In addition to pizza, there are wings, subs, and salads. And in nice weather, the patio will be a solid choice.

3043 Buford Hwy.
Brookhaven, GA 30329

Online: bigbangrestaurant.com

 

––Shelley Massey

featured image: iStock

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11 Simple Greek Recipes for Families

by Karly Wood

Greek food is one of the most family-friendly cuisines from around the globe. Often light but filling, traditional recipes for Greek food involve flaky dough, meat and lots of citrusy lemon. If you’ve been trying to find new ways to mix up dinner, keep reading for simple kid-friendly Greek food recipes everyone will enjoy.

Tzatziki

Jo Cooks

Before you can go any further, you have to have a good Greek Tzatziki recipe in your repertoire! This easy recipe from Jo Cooks involves everything you need to get that bright, refreshing flavor, and pairs with everything from pita to gyros.

Greek Lemon Potatoes

Supergolden Bakes

Make that quick switch away from french fries with this zesty recipe from Super Golden Bakes. Greek lemon potatoes are light and crispy, made in a casserole dish on the stove and will quickly become a kid-friendly side.

Greek Salad

Gimme Some Oven

You can skip the lettuce when preparing a traditional Greek salad. Instead, authentic versions load up on fresh, large cut veggies, kalamata olives, a huge chunk of feta and olive oil. We love the easy version over at Gimme Some Oven that's so simple, the kids can help out, too.

Greek Lamb Meatballs

Kay Nutrition

Lamb is a main feature in Greek cooking and these meatballs make the introduction to your kids a breeze. Kay Nutrition whips up her version with red onion and lots of other household spices, then serves with a refreshing side of tzatziki. 

Spanakopita Triangles

Feel Good Foodie

Skip the frozen spanakopita and make your own! This veggie-stuffed appetizer dish is actually not that difficult to make. With this recipe from Feel Good Foodie, you'll be whipping up this flaky, spinach-y snack in no time.

Potato Balls

My Greek Dish

Move over french fries, Greek Potato Balls have arrived. This recipe from My Greek Dish turns potatoes, cheese and herbs into fluffy fried balls that you won't be able to stop eating.

Greek Baked Orzo

Pinch of Yum

A great way to hide those veggies, Greek Baked Orzo packs in the goodness easily. Pinch of Yum's recipe includes tasty food like kale, tomatoes, orzo and of course, feta cheese!

Chicken Souvlaki

Rasa Malaysia

Greek chicken souvlaki can easily become a dinner staple. The kebab-style meal uses ingredients like lemon, yogurt and olive oil to marinate the chicken, then grill to get that perfectly-charred flavor. Check out Rasa Malaysia's recipe for a simple start to souvlaki. 

Kolokythokeftedes (Greek Zucchini Fritters)

Gitanjali Roche

Greek zucchini fritters are so good, you'll want to pass up American fried zucchini forever. Fried into either balls or a latke shape, Gitanjali Roche's recipe incorporates zucchini, feta and other fresh herbs that make this dish irresistible. 

Tiropita (Greek Feta Cheese Pie)

Olive Tomato

Greece's most popular pie is the Tiropita, or feta cheese pie. It's similar to spanakopita, but without the spinach. To get started on this flaky dish, check out Olive Tomato's recipe that will have you rolling out phyllo stat.

Baklava

Spatula Desserts

No Greek meal is complete without a slice of baklava. And while the layered dessert may seem difficult, it actually requires just a few ingredients and a little patience. Kids will love the sweet flavor and counting all those layers. Check out Spatula Desserts to see how easy it is!

––Karly Wood

 

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Why I’m Dreaming of Family Travel This Year

By Lindsay Goh

With 2020 firmly behind and the 2021 summer around the corner, our hopes are on the rise for the resumption of travel this year. While grateful for being relatively COVID-safe in Singapore’s golden cage, the smallness of our island has us pining for the outside.

2021 and there are 227 inhabited Greek islands. Where should we even get started?

As they say in Greece, hope dies last. Under lockdown, I’ve combed through island after island, selecting our visions of paradise for the next three summers. By now, I’ve read every major travel magazine article, little known blog post, and forum review on the destinations of interest. Each island has a tab in my spreadsheet and a file on Instagram collecting information and inspiration as I go.

Finally, I have the luxury of time to plan a vacation. A true rarity for moms. And finally, I’ve found exactly what we’ve been looking for: stylish and reasonably priced vacation villa gems located directly on child-friendly beaches in mid-size Cycladic seaside villages. Day trip options for semi-private cruises to neighboring islands with out-of-this-world beachscapes. Where to send the kids for a pottery workshop while in Sifnos…Any trip from here will never be so well planned. And as parents with the load of baggage we carry, some volatile with surprises, invaluable is a seamlessly organized holiday.

The simulation of travel in the planning process soon became therapeutic escapism. From home, I visualized us on that beach house patio with a cool glass of Assyrtiko in hand. Slowly sipping, we watch the kids frolick in fine white sand as the sky changes color. Later, we take an evening to wander through cobblestone paths of whitewashed villages, alive with the soul of Greece. I deviate to shop online for kaftans. I think we will dine at a Greek restaurant tonight.

Sure, I may have to cancel everything a month before June but herein lies a precious exercise in non-attachment and letting go: There is meaning in learning to defer to forces beyond our control. So much of our days as parents never go as planned anyways. And if the process of pursuing an end result designed to bring happiness, instead dominates with anger and frustration, what then is the point of the whole endeavor?

Savor the planning, inhabit the surprises, heal if you must, and journey on. Enjoy the entirety of your travels, and consider 2021 an opportunity for the most well researched you, ever. Whether in a summer sojourn, or the journey of life.

 

A restless city-loving Singaporean learning how to be still, embrace the antithesis of her husband's Greek nature and homeland, and master motherhood. After moving from Athens, we now live in Chicago, and are set to return to Singapore for a proper village welcome of our second baby.

 

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Lucky Names Such as Iris & Felix are Trending

by Jennifer Swartvagher

When choosing a name, parents hope to find one that conveys something positive. In order to discover the trendiest lucky baby names of 2020, Compare.bet examined Nameberry’s Top Baby Names of 2020. The list was narrowed down to reveal which ones are bringing parents-to-be hope, luck and good fortune. 

baby

According to the research, the most popular lucky girls name is Iris which means “rainbow” in Greek. Asher which means “happy” in Hebrew tops the charts for lucky boy names. Of those surveyed, 94% of those using lucky names think that this will help their child later in life. Of the parents who don’t favor lucky names, 38% would avoid them because they are too mainstream.

The Top 20 Most Popular Lucky Girls Names and Their Meanings:

  1. Iris – Derived from the Greek word Iris, meaning rainbow
  2. Evangeline – Has Greek origin, meaning ‘bearer of good news’
  3. Beatrice – ‘She who brings happiness; blessed’ in Latin
  4. Jade – A precious green stone transmitting wisdom, clarity, justice and courage
  5. Kiara – ‘Bright’ or ‘light’ in Italian and ‘God’s precious gift’ in Hindi
  6. Felicity – Derived from Latin word Felicitas, meaning ‘luck, good fortune’
  7. Winfred – ‘Friend of Peace’
  8. Clover – A traditional symbol of good luck and prosperity, particularly when found with four leaves
  9. Octavia – Derives from Latin Octavus, meaning 8 – which is a lucky number in many cultures and represents infinity
  10. Amber – derived from the Arabic, Ambar, which means jewel

The Top 20 Most Popular Lucky Boys Names and Their Meanings:

  1. Asher – Strong religious connotations such as happiness and joy, or blessings in abundance
  2. Felix – Derives from Latin, meaning happy or lucky
  3. Quinn – Irish Gaelic origin, meaning sense and intelligence
  4. Chance – Often found in Middle English to mean good fortune
  5. Bennett – Stems from Latin and means blessed
  6. Edmund – Meaning prosperity and riches
  7. Benedict – Derives from the Late Latin name Benedictus, meaning blessed
  8. Fisher – Meaning ‘fisherman’, linked with superstitions
  9. Seven – Has English origin meaning inner wisdom
  10. Arley – Rooted in American and Hebrew meaning promise

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: Jonathan Borba on Unsplash

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Best Bets: Score Free Kids Meals Every Day of the Week in DC

by rtguiomar

Eating out is great, but it can get pricey when you have lots of little mouths to feed. The good news is our area if full of restaurants where kids eat free! From burgers and fries to tacos and fish, we did some digging and assembled this list of family-friendly restaurants where kids eat free in the DMV.

Photo credit: emrank via Flickr 

Monday

The Daily Dish
The Daily Dish offers diners seasonally inspired, farm fresh cuisine. What’s that mean when you’re under 10? That you can chow down on well made, flavorful mac and cheese and burgers for free on Mondays!

8301 Grubb Rd.
Silver Spring, MD
301-588-6300
Online: thedailydishrestaurant.com

Surfside
Laid back food and tasty tacos. What’s there not to love? Kids can get in on the free action with a paying adult every Monday evening.

2444 Wisconsin Ave.
202-380-9353
Online: surfsidedc.com

Hard Times Cafe
Known for doling out the coziest of comfort foods (think: chili and mac and cheese), kids eat free with an adult entree every Sunday and Monday.

1404 King St.
Alexandria, VA
703-837-0050
Online: hardtimes.com

Modern Market Eatery
Modern Market Eatery is a fast casual restaurant dedicated to healthy, organic food. Kids eat free at all of their locations every Monday (and Sunday at the Bethesda location) from 5 p.m. to close. One free kids meal per adult entree.

1010 Vermont Ave NW

4930 Elm St.
Bethesda, MD
Online: modernmarket.com/

Gusto Farm to Street
Gusto Farm to Street is a healthy fast-casual restaurant chain. Kids eat free on Mondays! One free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult meal. They even have pizza!

8512 Fenton St.
Silver Spring, MD
301-565-2800

4733 Elm St.
Bethesda, MD
240-396-6398
Online: .eatgusto.com/

Big Greek Cafe
Big Greek Cafe offers great Greek food in a fast-casual environment. Kids eat free every Monday and—bonus—on Wednesdays they have $5 Gyros. Who doesn’t love Gryros?!

8223 Georgia Avenue
Silver Spring, MD
301-907-4976
Online: biggreekcafe.com/

Photo credit: Pizzeria Orso

Tuesday

Pizzeria Orso
Pizza eaters can rejoice, and enjoy pizza on a budget at Pizzeria Orso for Kid Tuesday. They happily hook up the little diners (age 10 and under) with a free kids’ meal with the order of a traditional or specialty pizza.

400 South Maple Ave.
Falls Church, VA
703-226-3460
Online: pizzeriaorso.com

Whitlows on Wilson
You know you’re cool when Buzzfeed says you’re cool and Whitlow’s is officially cool. Offering burgers, salads, and the like, they also have a tiki bar on the roof. Probably no kids at the bar but, if they’re under 10, you can drag them along Tuesday-Sunday between 4 pm and 7 pm for a free kid’s meal. You get one free kids meal per adult meal which means shucks, you have to eat too!

2854 Wilson Blvd.
Clarendon, VA
703-276-9693
Online: whitlows.com

Brookland Pint
American casual cuisine. Kids under 12 eat free all day every Tuesday! Plus, don’t forget to ask for a balloon on Tuesdays. Limit 2 kids per adult entree.

716 Monroe St. NE
202-758-2757
Online: brooklandpint.com/

BurgerFi
This national chain has more than just beef burgers – their menu also features a veggie burger, grilled chicken sandwich, and the plant-based Beyond Burger. Kids eat free every Tuesday!

8504 Fenton St
Silver Spring, MD
301-565-2100
Online: burgerfi.com

Eggspectation
Eggspectation is an international franchise with something for everyone (their menu is gigantic!). Kids eat free every Tuesday.

923 Ellsworth Dr.
Silver Spring, MD
301-585-1700
Online: eggspectation.com

 

photo: Chris L. via Yelp

Wednesday

Los Toltecos
Here you’ll find straightforward, authentic Mexican food (think: chimichangas, enchiladas, and burritos). The grub is free for kids when they’re tagging along with a paying adult.

4111 Duke St.
Alexandria, VA
703-370-4111
Online: lostoltecosrestaurant.com

Qdoba Mexican Grill
Get yourself a nice plate of enchiladas and get a free meal for your kiddo but the day varies from location to location; usually it’s on Sunday or Wednesday.

Various locations around the DMV
Online: qdoba.com/

Friendly’s
Score kid’s meals for just $1.99 all day on Wednesdays. Yes, ALL DAY LONG!

412 Crain Highway SW
Glen Burnie, MD
410-768-4910
Online: friendlysrestaurants.com/

photo: Lebanese Taverna

Thursday

Duffy’s Irish Pub
Duffy’s Irish Pub is an independently owned, neighborhood pub in Washington, DC’s historic H Street NE corridor. Kids eat free every Thursday from 4pm-7pm. 1 free kids meal per adult entree & drink.

1016 H St. NE
202) 462-9464
Online: dcduffys.com/

Roofer’s Union
Roofers Union offers classic American fare and an amazing rooftop. Every Thursday from 5-8pm is Family Night and kids under 12 eat free with the purchase of an adult entree.

2446 18th St. NW
202-232-7663
Online: roofersuniondc.com/

photo: Jennifer B. via Yelp

Friday

Whitlows on Wilson
You know you’re cool when Buzzfeed says you’re cool and Whitlow’s is officially cool. Offering burgers, salads, and the like, they also have a tiki bar on the roof. Probably no kids at the bar but, if they’re under 10, you can drag them along Tuesday-Sunday between 4 pm and 7 pm for a free kid’s meal. You get one free kids meal per adult meal which means shucks, you have to eat too!

2854 Wilson Blvd. (Clarendon, Va)
703-276-9693
Online: whitlows.com

iHop
Like kids need to be talked into free pancakes! Get ‘em piping hot and for zero dollars every night of the week at participating iHops, 4 pm-8 pm, with the purchase of an adult entrée.

3100 14th St., NW
202-939 0500
Online: ihop.com

photo: Shanes Rib Shack

Weekends

Shane’s Rib Rack
Perfect spot to enjoy finger lickin’ BBQ and on Sunday you can drag your teeny cowboys and girls along for free.

7698 Richmind Hwy.
Alexandria, VA
703-660-6288
Online: shanesribshack.com

Taqueria del Barrio
Their menu features many authentic Mexican recipes as well as some modern takes on classic Latin American dishes. Kids eat free every day with the purchase of an entree or 3+ tacos.

821 Upshur St. NW
202-723-0200
Online: taqueriadelbarrio.com/

Tastee Diner
Open since 1935, the Tastee Diner is part of the historical cultural fabric of the area and is open 24/7. Kids eat free Monday-Friday 5pm-8pm. One free kids meal per paying adult.

8601 Cameron St
Silver Spring, MD
301-589-8171
Online: tasteediner.com/

—Guiomar Ochoa, Ayren Jackson-Cannady and Amanda Rodriguez

featured photo: iStock

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Cheap Eats: 11 Restaurants Where Kids Eat Cheap or Free

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