Summer feels just around the corner. Even though nights still dip into the 40s and I’m in the classroom each day, I can already taste warm-weather meals. Memorial Day Weekend may be the unofficial start of summer, but for many of us it’s when we officially switch to eating outdoors—picnics, barbecues, lakeside lunches, and beach … Read more

Just because money is tight doesn’t mean you can’t give thoughtful, homemade gifts. You can make a beautiful, personalized serving plate for holiday treats for under $5. This simple Mod Podge project is an inexpensive way to dress up cookies, candies, and small baked goods while giving a gift that looks custom and handmade. Mod … Read more

Coconut Bread Pudding with Mango Sauce is a comforting, tropical twist on classic bread pudding. Using coconut milk and a touch of coconut extract gives the custard a rich, island flavor, while a bright mango sauce adds freshness and vibrant color. This easy recipe is ideal for preparing ahead—the custard-soaked bread can rest before baking, … Read more

This lightly sweetened whipped orange honey butter is wonderful served as a spread for quick breads, muffins, waffles, rolls, pancakes, or scones. A few weeks ago I made pancakes for breakfast and decided to whip up a batch of orange honey butter. It’s smooth, creamy, and lightly sweetened, and I realized I had never shared … Read more

This 15-minute Waldorf salad is a classic for good reason: bright flavors, crisp textures, and a creamy dressing that ties it all together. It’s quick to assemble and makes a refreshing lunch, potluck side, or light dinner when paired with bread or protein. If you like salads with substance and balance, try other simple recipes … Read more

Quiche is a beloved brunch classic: a savory custard tart made from eggs and cream baked in a pastry crust, with roots in the Lorraine region of France. Versatile and satisfying, quiche works for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or a quick dinner, and it’s a great way to use up leftovers or seasonal vegetables. If you … Read more

These baked coconut shrimp cups are a playful take on a classic appetizer — easy to make, naturally gluten-free, and perfect for parties. Disclosure: By sharing this recipe I entered a contest sponsored by the Seafood Nutrition Partnership. I received no monetary compensation for my time. Happy Monday! It’s been a hectic week — long … Read more

As promised, here is a clear, simple recipe for maple ice cream that replaces granulated sugar with maple syrup and relies on a short list of quality ingredients: egg yolks, an egg, maple syrup, heavy cream, whole milk and vanilla. The result is a smooth, custard-style ice cream with a subtle, natural maple flavor that … Read more

Vegetarian 7-Layer Dip Vegetarian 7-Layer Dip This easy, flavorful Vegetarian 7-Layer Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer ideal for parties, game days, potlucks, or casual family gatherings. Layers of warm, cheesy refried beans topped with creamy guacamole, tangy salsa, crisp lettuce, and fresh tomatoes create a variety of textures and tastes in every bite. This recipe … Read more

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my full disclosure policy. These Red Velvet Cupcakes are an adaptation of my popular Old Fashioned Red Velvet Cake, reworked into perfectly portioned cupcakes. They have a tender, velvety crumb and a mild chocolate note beneath a tangy buttermilk base. Each cupcake is finished with a classic … Read more