The last few weeks of school are here and my family is dragging toward the finish line. Everyone is tired, a little burned out and a touch grumpy—summer can’t come soon enough. For us, a simple weekly meal plan keeps evenings calm, helps preserve routine, and creates a natural pause each night to sit down … Read more

Have you tried a Muffaletta — a stuffed picnic loaf? Think of it like a sandwich but far more impressive. We hollow out a crusty tiger loaf and pack it with deli favourites for a colourful, no-cook centrepiece that’s perfect for picnics, buffets or a simple special lunch. It’s quick to assemble and great made … Read more

LISTEN ON APPLE LISTEN ON SPOTIFY Japan the Vegetarian Cookbook — with Nancy Singleton Hachisu On a recent episode of the podcast I spoke with Nancy Singleton Hachisu. A California native and Stanford graduate, Nancy moved to rural Saitama, Japan, in 1988 to live with her husband, a Japanese farmer. She is a James Beard … Read more

I’m pleased to welcome my new friend Cari to today’s episode. Cari is a master gardener, a new homesteader, and a garden coach who helps beginning and aspiring gardeners find their footing. She describes her childhood as nomadic—moving across the U.S. with her father’s job—but found a sense of stability visiting her grandparents’ farm each … Read more

This crispy air fryer Parmesan zucchini is garlicky, cheesy, and ready in under 15 minutes. No breading is required — the zucchini becomes tender inside while developing golden, crispy edges that taste like little Parmesan crisps. It’s a quick, low‑carb side dish for any meal. A Quick Look At The Recipe ✅ Recipe Name: Crispy … Read more

These Cauliflower Nuggets are crispy, golden, and incredibly snackable. Baked until crisp with a light garlic and paprika seasoning, they’re perfect straight from the oven and even better with a dipping sauce. Why You’ll Love This Recipe These crunchy cauliflower bites are addictive — they develop a satisfying golden crust while staying tender inside. They’re … Read more

I love pasta in any form! My boys love pasta, too — and best of all, they all agree on it. That means I can make a big pot of pasta without worrying who will eat it. This bacon and cheddar macaroni and cheese was a hit the other night. Everyone went crazy for it. … Read more

Layered Jello Salad has been a staple at our family Christmas dinners for as long as I can remember. This Christmas Ribbon Jello Salad is a traditional side dish in our home. We usually prepare it in a ring mold, and I still love the look of the three festive layers—red, creamy white (with a … Read more

There’s something irresistible about a bowl of shrimp and corn bisque—warm, creamy, and full of bold flavor. This New Orleans–style recipe combines tender shrimp, sweet corn, and the classic Cajun aromatics—onion, bell pepper, and celery—into a comforting, flavorful soup. It’s elegant enough to serve for guests yet simple enough for weeknight dinners, and it captures … Read more