Green beans can turn soft and forgettable, but this skillet version with bacon fixes that fast. A simple step keeps them crisp while everything comes together in one pan with bold flavor. Instructions for garden-fresh green beans and frozen green beans, without them getting soggy. TL;DR We grow our own green beans and wax beans in the summer months, and at the end of … [Read more...]
Hutspot (Dutch Mashed Potatoes with Carrots and Onions)
Hutspot blends mashed potatoes, onions, and carrots into a cozy Dutch classic. Simple ingredients, big comfort, and perfect for colder days. TL;DR Hutspot is a Dutch comfort dish made of potatoes, carrots, and onions. The vegetables are mashed and served with a pork sausage or other pork main course meals. Belgian Flemish neighbors have a version of their own called … [Read more...]
Cream Cheese Bacon Puff Pastry Pinwheels
Cream cheese bacon puff pastry pinwheels are flaky, savory bites filled with creamy cheese and crispy bacon. They bake up golden and irresistible, making them a great appetizer for parties, holidays, or casual gatherings. TL;DR This recipe was inspired by my cousin Christina, who brought a batch of puff pastry pinwheels to one of our family gatherings a few years … [Read more...]
Spiced Carrot Breakfast Cookies
These carrot breakfast cookies bring together tender carrots, cardamom, and nuts in a lightly sweet baked treat. Spread over thin, crisp wafers before baking, they come out aromatic, satisfying, and perfect for starting the day. TL;DR Paul, my husband, came up with these cookies when carrots were in season and plentiful. The idea is to shred them small, infuse the … [Read more...]
Mini Brie-Stuffed Sweet Peppers
Mini Brie-Stuffed Sweet Peppers are the kind of bite-sized appetizer that disappears faster than you can set down the tray. TL;DR Creamy melted brie tucked inside naturally sweet peppers creates that perfect balance of rich and fresh, making them ideal for holidays, casual gatherings, or whenever you want something that looks impressive without much effort. Side Note: … [Read more...]
Shortcut Peanut Butter and Jelly Croissant
Sometimes you just want something warm and sweet without pulling out half the pantry. These shortcut peanut butter and jelly croissants come together fast with store-bought crescent dough and bake up flaky and golden and filled with that nostalgic PB and J flavor everyone knows. TL;DR We were chatting about flaky bakes such as French croissants and pain au chocolat … [Read more...]
Stir Fry Sauce Recipes You Can Mix in Minutes
A great stir-fry starts with the sauce, and this collection brings together six flavorful options inspired by authentic Asian classics and everyday favorites. Each one pairs beautifully with vegetables, meats, noodles, rice, or seafood, so you can mix and match and build your next pan dinner with confidence. … [Read more...]
Steak Chili with Beans
Take your chili game to the next level with this hearty steak chili with beans. This is a convenient one-pot, dump-and-cook dinner recipe. Perfect for a busy weeknight or for beginner cooks. TL;DR We love hearty chilis in the colder months of the year. They are easy to prepare and taste fantastic. This particular chili is made of beef steak chunks, beans, and a … [Read more...]
All-Purpose Soup Seasoning Recipe
A homemade seasoning blend designed to bring clear soups, broths, and stews to life without overpowering them. It adds depth, balance, and that comforting flavor you expect from a well-made pot of soup. TL;DR Specific herbs and spices are reserved for seasoning soups. I realized this wasn't necessarily common knowledge as I traveled the world. In central Europe, we … [Read more...]
Cream of Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup
A creamy soup with fresh broccoli florets, potato, and cheese. Add this flavor-packed, simple, one-pot soup to your weekly meal rotation. TL;DR We love broccoli cheese soup when the temperatures start to dip in the winter months, but eventually I felt that we needed another creamy, similar soup, in our weekly menu meal plan. Therefore, I came up with this broccoli … [Read more...]
12 Meat Stuffed Vegetables You'll Want for Dinner Tonight
Hearty and flavorful, these 12 meat-stuffed vegetables will change the way you think about dinner. Each recipe transforms simple vegetables into a filling main dish that's anything but boring. … [Read more...]
Cabbage and Ground Beef Recipes That Always Hit the Spot
Cabbage and ground beef recipes carry that homemade taste everyone craves. They feel familiar, comforting, and perfect for gathering around the table. Cook them once, and they'll instantly become part of your weekly routine. … [Read more...]
Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Tired after a long day and craving Asian flavors? This ground beef and cabbage stir-fry should be on your weekly dinner rotation. A filling, simple, one-pan skillet stir-fry with a handful of pantry ingredients, which is absolutely beginner-cook suited. TL;DR We prepare various simple stir-fries in our skillets. A wok isn't always an integral part of our cooking … [Read more...]
Cacio e Pepe with Parmesan
Cacio e pepe is a classic Italian, Roman pasta dish with cheese and black pepper. Traditionally it is prepared with Pecorino cheese, this version calls for Italian Parmesan instead. TL;DR We toured Rome in April, and as we were about to take part in the yearly Rome birthday celebrations, we were told that the pope had passed away. Disappointed, we ended up in a … [Read more...]
Creamy Chicken Mushroom Skillet
Thinly sliced chicken breast pieces cook down with mushrooms in a creamy sauce that's full of flavor. You'll only need one skillet to bring this comforting dinner together. TL;DR A creamy chicken mushroom skillet meal. It's one of my simplest creations with chicken and mushrooms. It was mostly inspired by some of my other dishes, such as the chicken mushroom and white … [Read more...]
Japanese Chicken Recipes Made Simple at Home
Japanese chicken recipes cover everything from quick lunches to filling dinners that warm you up. You'll find cozy bowls, hearty mains, and lighter bites that fit any mood. I've gathered some of the best options so you can try them at home. … [Read more...]
10 Minute Pickled Carrots (Refrigerator)
A super quick recipe for homemade pickled carrots. You will need a bunch of fresh carrots and some pantry ingredients to make these crunchy, juicy, perfect pickled carrots. TL;DR We have been preparing a lot more water-based, refrigerator vegetable pickles at home because they are almost effortless to prepare. Pickles are a great way to save the harvest of the season … [Read more...]
Fall Baked Brie with Fruit
Fall-themed fruits are roasted in a baking dish with brie cheese and then served hot with honey or maple syrup. These individually baked dishes can be served as a brunch or dessert for a special occasion or to treat yourself. TL;DR I just had an epiphany in the grocery store the other day as they were bringing out the first fall harvest-period fruits. A few sweet … [Read more...]
Butternut Squash Casserole
A golden baked butternut squash casserole brings cozy flavor to the table with its creamy texture and rich taste. This guide walks you through making it at home so you can serve it for any occasion, big or small. TL;DR I love dump-and-bake vegetable casserole dishes, especially if it's a seasonal vegetable that I get to use. Butternut squash makes for a delicious … [Read more...]
Layered Apple Custard Pie
An apple pie like no other. This is the ultimate upgrade to your standard apple pie. Vanilla custard makes this layered apple pie extra irresistible, and the lattice crust topping is a real showstopper. TL;DR Paul had the grand idea to add vanilla custard to the filling of an apple pie. The concept sounded amazing to me, and I was up for the challenge! Our first … [Read more...]
Spiced Plum Chutney Recipe
Fresh plums are turned into a silky smooth, spiced chutney. I created this recipe with a various selection of food combinations in mind. You can use it with your favorite meats, cheeses, breads, and vegetables as a dip, spread, or topping. TL;DR During plum season, I like to prepare a plum jam or plum chutney to retain the juicy fruit goodness of the late summer and … [Read more...]
Dutch Oven Roast Beef for Sandwich
Flavor-packed and sliceable cooked Dutch oven roasted beef cuts for your sandwich. It can be meal-prepped for the week. With oven or stovetop cooking instructions. TL;DR Paul makes this outstanding Dutch oven roast beef for sandwiches with a special marination. The recipe is inspired by his mother's roast beef, and he usually likes to cook the meat over the stovetop in … [Read more...]
Salt-Free Chili Seasoning Recipe
A homemade chili seasoning to make the best chili at home, but without the added salt. No salt equals less sodium, which is suitable for a sodium-free diet/ low-salt diet. TL;DR I never understood why some seasoning blends contained added salt or even oil. Sure, oil at least helps in blooming spices when heated, and it's a flavor enhancer, but salt isn't a necessary … [Read more...]
Garlic Greek Yogurt Sauce Recipe
A universal garlic-flavored Greek yogurt sauce to enjoy with your meats and vegetables. TL;DR My sister made this simple garlic Greek yogurt sauce at a cookout, which she adapted from a sour cream Thermomix recipe. I thought it was a great all-rounder sauce. I adapted it from her version, she also adds curry powder (more version ideas after the recipe card). Use it as … [Read more...]
Shredded Beef Salad
A refreshing salad with cooked and seasoned shredded beef and vegetables such as cucumber, tomato, and sweet corn. This salad can be a satisfying lunch meal or a salad served at a BBQ or grill event. TL;DR Paul had the idea to add shredded beef to a salad, and I thought it sounded fantastic! We prepared some BBQ-flavored shredded beef at home, which is super … [Read more...]
10 Minute Pickled Mango (Refrigerator)
A simple and effortless recipe to prepare pickled mangoes at home from scratch. You will need only a handful of pantry ingredients with your fresh mangoes. This recipe is a water-based mango pickle that requires no water-bath canning or special skills. TL;DR We have been busy preparing pickles all summer long, and a mango pickle couldn't be missing from the bucket … [Read more...]
Egg Salad Tomato Cheese Bologna Tramezzini
Soft Italian sandwiches, aka tramezzini, enhanced with an egg salad, tomato, cheese, bologna filling. Enjoy a lunch fit for an Italian! TL;DR If you ever get to travel across Italy, you will come across sandwiches known as tramezzini (plural tramezzini, singular tramezzino). These are prepared with crustless soft white Italian bread slices, and they come with all … [Read more...]
German Plum Sheet Cake
A simple plum sheet cake recipe that we prepare in the summer and fall months in Austria and Germany. It's a beginner-friendly and hassle-free cake commonly served during afternoon coffee time. TL;DR In Austria, Germany, and other neighboring regions, it is commonplace to serve a cake in the afternoon hours with coffee and whipped cream. This is when friends, … [Read more...]
Stuffed Italian Sausage Zucchini Boats
Italian sausage fills tender zucchini for a low-carb dinner bursting with flavor. The cheesy topping turns golden and irresistible as it bakes. Quick prep makes it perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing taste. TL;DR Italian pork sausage is flavorful and perfect for stuffing vegetables such as Zucchini. These zucchini boats are well balanced in terms of … [Read more...]
Apricot Purée Recipe
A homemade apricot purée is very versatile. You can mix it into sweet and savory dishes. Here is how I make make a quick flavor-packed purée with fresh apricots. TL;DR I make a batch of this apricot puree when the fruits are in season or when we have a large harvest to process quickly. This particular recipe includes cinnamon and cardamom. These spices complement … [Read more...]
Butter Garlic Pan-Fried Calamari Rings (Squids)
Butter garlic pan-fried squid is a popular beach food in Goa. We love to prepare them at home whenever we get a bunch of fresh calamari. This recipe is great because it's simple, and you can serve the calamari the way it suits you. TL;DR Beach restaurants in Goa are renowned for their fresh seafood, and all our family and friends from Europe travel all the way to … [Read more...]
10 Minute Pickled Red Onions (Refrigerator)
In just a few minutes, you can effortlessly prepare fresh red onion slices using this straightforward recipe. Water bath canning is not necessary for this vinegar-based, no-boil, refrigerator recipe. This will save you time, and the pickled onion can be consumed within a few days. TL;DR We have been loving homemade pickled vegetables lately, and the red onion pickle … [Read more...]
Lemon Balm Syrup Recipe
Lemon balm syrup is a fragrant and refreshing herbal infusion you can make at home with just a few ingredients. In this post you'll learn how to prepare and store it plus creative ways to use it in drinks, desserts, and more. TL;DR My mother has been making this infused lemon balm syrup, which she sells at the local farmer's market. It's a refreshing way to beat the … [Read more...]
Mini Tomato Bruschetta (Bruschettini)
These mini bruschette are packed with juicy tomatoes and Italian flavor in every crisp bite. Perfect for aperitivo or as a colorful starter at any gathering. They vanish fast, so be ready to make a second batch. TL;DR Tomato bruschetta is a wonderful Italian appetizer or snack bite. These bites are made of fresh tomatoes and crunchy toasted bread slices. Normally … [Read more...]
11 Shrimp and Coconut Recipes That Taste Like Vacation
Shrimp and coconut are the dream team in these irresistible recipes. From tropical curries to crispy bites and creamy pastas, there's something here for every craving. Each dish brings out the best of this bold, flavor-packed duo. … [Read more...]
Spiced Asian Cabbage Bacon Skillet
A one-pan Asian-inspired spiced skillet meal with cabbage and bacon as the star ingredients. This is a speedy dinner meal idea that is perfect all year long. I prepare it when I'm late, in a hurry, or starving. TL;DR This bacon and cabbage dish was initially inspired by my fast chicken and cabbage stir fry. Minimal ingredients, but it's a flavorful dish that won't … [Read more...]
Vegetable Casserole Recipes for Every Season
Vegetable casserole recipes that actually taste amazing and don't take hours to prep. These cozy ideas work for weeknights, potlucks, or when the fridge is full of produce that needs using. Find out how to turn simple vegetables into satisfying oven-ovenbaked meals. … [Read more...]
Jostaberry Jam Recipe
This jostaberry jam is made with 2 ingredients, and it's all natural, without the addition of artificial ingredients. You will love this jam if you have fresh-harvested jostaberries at home or if you have a frozen batch that needs to be used up. TL;DR The jostaberries are cooked down with sugar to a jam as per our French method at home. Jostaberries are tart and a … [Read more...]
Tomato Tuna Tart Recipe
Tuna and Tomato come together in this savory French tart recipe. My mother has been making this for lunch in the summer months and everybody has been enjoying this family recipe. TL;DR Savory tarts are common all over France, just like the Quiche from the Lorraine region. I don't really know where the tomato tuna tart originated, but I have always seen my family … [Read more...]
Simple Cauliflower Casserole (Dump & Bake)
A simple cauliflower casserole prepared with fresh cauliflower florets and a flavorful cheese, cream, and egg mix. This is a quick and easy dump-and bake recipe that can either be a vegetarian stand-alone meal or a side dish for all celebrations. TL;DR I came up with a set of popular vegetable casserole recipes years ago, and the cauliflower version was one of … [Read more...]