Baking feels like a kind of therapy to me: deliberate, calming and reliably rewarding when a recipe is followed. There’s a quiet satisfaction in the ritual—measuring, mixing and waiting—that often ends with something warm and delicious coming out of the oven. A quote from the movie Julie & Julia captures this feeling perfectly: “I love … Read more

Soft, pillowy cheese tortellini combined with crisp vegetables, savory salami, fresh mozzarella, and a bright, herby Italian vinaigrette. This Italian tortellini pasta salad is an easy make-ahead dish perfect for parties, potlucks, picnics, or a simple weeknight dinner. As temperatures rise, pasta salad season is in full swing. This Italian tortellini pasta salad is a … Read more

Warm, flavorful and nutritious farro bowls topped with fried halloumi and finished with a maple-Dijon dressing. Bright, hearty and satisfying, these bowls combine chewy farro, roasted cauliflower, leafy kale and a sweet-tangy dressing for a balanced main dish that works for weeknight dinners or meal prep. This recipe gathers my favorite ingredients in a single … Read more

Small-batch chocolate cupcakes made from a rich cocoa cake and finished with chocolate frosting — an easy homemade dessert recipe that yields 6 cupcakes. These small-batch chocolate cupcakes are tender, moist, and ideal when you want fresh homemade cupcakes without baking a large quantity. The batter uses everyday pantry ingredients and comes together quickly for … Read more

Made another chocolate hazelnut treat recently—my love for all things hazelnut butter is still going strong. These choco-hazelnut fudge cups are a quick, no-bake dessert that’s creamy and delicate, yet packed with the deep flavors of hazelnut, espresso, and cacao butter, finished with a dark chocolate topping. The recipe is flexible and forgiving. Below are … Read more

Late Spring Garden Update Yesterday felt like high summer here — near 90°F — and I must have drunk a gallon of water to stay comfortable. A steady breeze made the day bearable; without it the heat would have been much tougher. Today’s forecast is milder, only about 82°F, which might call for a trip … Read more

This sparkling, fruity mojito blends muddled strawberries with chilled rosé for a light, refreshing warm-weather cocktail. I’m a big fan of a dry rosé, but I don’t always buy it because not everyone in my house shares my enthusiasm for pink wine. Once in a while—especially on Mother’s Day—I proudly pour rosé without apology. This … Read more

This post is sponsored by Sprouts Farmers Market. Plant-based eating has become increasingly popular, but what does a plant-based diet really mean? The term is often used alongside vegan or vegetarian labels, yet it doesn’t have one strict definition. As a registered dietitian, I describe plant-based eating as a flexible, plant-forward approach: make plants the … Read more

Air Fryer Pierogies are crispy, golden, and ready in minutes. This simple method shows how to cook frozen pierogies in the air fryer for a quick snack, appetizer, or side dish that keeps the filling tender and the exterior perfectly crisp. Frozen pierogies are one of the easiest air fryer recipes to make. No thawing, … Read more

This citrusy blend of lemonade and apple cider is an unexpectedly refreshing, easy-to-make drink that can be served hot or cold. Lightly sweet with bright lemon notes and warm apple character, it’s perfect any time of year and especially lovely on crisp autumn days. If you’re ready to embrace fall flavors with a small twist, … Read more