While I have a deep appreciation for the classics, I’m always on the hunt for something fresh and exciting. Take the Figa cocktail, for example. Food & Wine magazine noted that it claimed the top spot on the menu at the iconic Clyde Common restaurant in Portland’s retro Ace Hotel. Holding such a prime position […]

Joanna Gaines is a beloved figure in the world of home design and hospitality. As the co-founder of Magnolia and the star of Fixer Upper, she’s known for her impeccable taste, creativity, and heartwarming approach to life. But beyond her design talents, Joanna is also a passionate cook and baker. Truthfully, I knew very little […]

If your idea of a perfect dinner involves a little spice, a lot of flavor, and a dash of elegance, then Lobster Fra Diavolo is about to be your new obsession. This dish brings the heat—literally—with a spicy tomato sauce that wraps itself around tender lobster like a fiery hug. This spicy dish has a […]

Dive into the delightful world of crunchy sweetness with chocolate chip pecan cookie bark, a treat that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. Cookie bark, sometimes called cookie brittle, is a fusion of the classic chocolate chip cookie and brittle candy. Numerous brands out there have cleverly mass-marketed bark and brittle, and […]

This beauty is a chickpea flatbread, known more traditionally as a “socca” (in France) or “farinata” (in Italy).  Translated to English, these are savory, tender, unleavened pancakes made from chickpea flour, water, and olive oil. Extremely popular in Mediterranean cuisine, these chickpea flatbreads are easy to whip up, and topping-wise, they are limitless allowing your culinary creativity […]

Onigiri, also known as “omusubi” or “nigirimeshi“,  is a quintessential Japanese snack, that merges tradition with innovation in a delectable rice ball. Onigiri, or rice balls, date back to the Heian period (794-1185), cherished for their convenience and versatility. Typically filled with savory ingredients and wrapped in nori (seaweed), onigiri has been a staple of […]

These raspberry and cream drop biscuits are so delicious they will get eaten before they even have a chance to cool off.  Biscuit-lover or not served warm with a smear of butter, they are truly irresistible.  Although my boys tend to favor traditional savory biscuits rather than sweet ones they both inhaled these without hesitation […]

There’s something irresistibly indulgent about the combination of white chocolate and raspberries. Their pairing is a match made in dessert heaven, where the creamy sweetness of white chocolate perfectly balances the tart burst of fresh raspberries. Each bite of this cake is a delightful experience, featuring tender, fluffy layers infused with the delicate flavor of […]

Embrace summer flavors with a rustic tomato tart, a classic French favorite that dates back to the early 20th century. Known for its simplicity and vibrant taste, this tart is a quintessential go-to for summer meal. The combination of flaky puff pastry, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs makes it an irresistible dish, especially during peak […]

Savor the harmony of simplicity and robust flavors with furikake-seared tuna, an elegant yet easy-to-prepare dish that effortlessly marries Japanese flavors and tender, buttery tuna. Furikake, a Japanese seasoning blend of sesame seeds, seaweed, and dried fish, takes center stage, providing a savory umami kick. Coating sushi-grade ahi tuna in this magical seasoning mixture creates […]

If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious side dish that perfectly complements those summer vibes you’re feeling, look no further. This couscous and chickpea salad fits the bill, while also offering a powerhouse of wholesome ingredients. Packed with Mediterranean flavors, this lovely recipe comes together effortlessly offering a plethora of health benefits to boot. […]

Razzleberry pie happens when you throw raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, and a little magic into a pie crust. Honestly, I must admit, I had never heard of this kind of pie until my husband told me about it. He had discovered it years ago when he and a close friend from high school stumbled upon it […]

Papaya rum punch is a vibrant, tropical cocktail that captures the essence of an island getaway in every sip. Combining the luscious sweetness of ripe papaya with the bold kick of rum, this drink is both refreshing and indulgent. Perfect for a summer gathering or a relaxing evening on the back patio, this fruity rum […]

As we bask in the sun-kissed days of summer, it’s time to celebrate the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes. One easy way to enhance their natural sweetness is by oven-roasting them with rich, flavorful extra virgin olive oil. Whether you’re serving them alongside grilled meats, tossing them into a salad, or simply enjoying them with […]

As the sun blazes and temperatures rise, there’s nothing quite like a classic lemon tart to refresh your palate. Originating from France, this dessert epitomizes the delicate balance of French patisserie, combining a buttery, flaky crust with a smooth, tangy lemon filling. This is a lovely dessert to enjoy after a sun-drenched afternoon and a […]