Joy Bauer Shares Heart-Healthy Recipes to Help Lower Cholesterol

These recipes prove that “delicious and nutritious” can absolutely go hand in hand.

Comfort food is my love language — and these three recipes are proof that “delicious and nutritious” can absolutely go hand in hand. From a dreamy apple pie-inspired breakfast to an elevated pistachio toast and a plant-forward twist on a childhood classic, each dish brings the crave-worthy vibes you’re looking for while sneaking in nutrients that help lower cholesterol and support heart health. Let’s dig in!

Apple Pie Overnight Oats

Joy Bauer's Apple Pie Overnight Oats.
Joy Bauer's Apple Pie Overnight Oats.Kelly Harrison

If apple pie had a breakfast alter ego, this would be it. Creamy oats are layered with cinnamon-spiced apples that soften overnight into a cozy chilled porridge, making every bite taste nostalgic and indulgent. Best of all, you prep it the night before, so busy mornings feel a whole lot calmer and a whole lot more delicious.

Pistachio Butter Banana Toast With Honey

Joy Bauer's Pistachio Butter Banana Toast.
Joy Bauer's Pistachio Butter Banana Toast.Kelly Harrison

Sometimes the simplest recipes are the most unforgettable. Thick, creamy pistachio butter is spread over golden whole-grain toast, then topped with sweet banana slices, a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of crunchy pistachios. It’s rich, nutty and gently sweet with a satisfying mix of textures in every single bite My husband even declared it one of the best things I’ve ever made!

Vegan Sloppy Joes in Zucchini Boats

All the saucy, messy, finger-licking goodness of a classic sloppy Joe — with a lighter, plant-forward twist you’re going to love. Instead of ground beef, I swap in hearty lentils and let them soak up every bit of that sweet, tangy sauce. This rendition delivers serious flavor with a big boost of fiber and plant protein to help improve your cholesterol numbers and support heart health. Swap the bun for a zucchini boat and you’ve got a dish that’s balanced, satisfying and super fun. (I’ve been tempted to rename them sloppy Joys — what do you think?)