Mason Jar Ideas

Appetizers, Beverages, Cocktails

Jack’s Favorite Bloody Mary

A pitcher-full of outstanding Bloody Marys is easy to make and infinitely tastier than store-bought mixes. Bloody Maria, Dirty Mary, and Virgin Mary variations are included and are customizable by the glass. For added fun, offer a make-your-own garnish station! An olive loaded Bloody Mary with a crisp stalk of celery and a generous amount…

Beverages, Cocktails, Coffee and Tea

Lavender Syrup

Lavender Syrup is simple to make and adds a sweet, floral note to hot and iced coffee and tea, lattes, lemonade, cocktails, desserts, and more. A clever trick makes the syrup a pretty shade of purple!  The first time I had a lavender latte, I didn’t finish it. Despite rave reviews from friends who claimed…

Snacks

Mix and Match Trail Mix

A wholesome trail mix is easy to make and offers much room for variation, from basic nuts and dried fruit to an assortment of delicious extras.  Recipe includes our favorite combinations! I love nuts of all kinds. Their crunch is appealing, and the balance of fats and protein makes them an especially satiating snack. As a…

Condiments, Dressings

Everyday Shallot Vinaigrette

This versatile vinaigrette is punchy enough to make a winning salad out of greens alone yet welcoming to all sorts of mix-ins. Plus it’s quick to make with ingredients easily kept on hand.   With its crisp crunch, vibrant color, and fresh appeal, the right salad has the power to complete virtually any meal. The…

Christmas Potpourri

The aroma of warm spices and fresh citrus join festive cranberries in this colorful, easy-to-make mix that is perfect for gift giving. Printable gift tags included above recipe card.   My very thoughtful friend, Anne Besterman, is to thank for this festive recipe, which although made of edible ingredients, is not intended for consumption. Christmas…

Condiments, Sauces

Doctored Up Spaghetti Sauce

Comfort food at its best, this meaty sauce starts with a jar of your favorite marinara and can be customized in a variety of ways. Easy to make a big batch and freezes well!         First and foremost, how is everyone doing? If you’re feeling sad, scared or lonely and just want…

Condiments

Candied Jalapeños (a.k.a Cowboy Candy)

Spicy-sweet pickled jalapeños add flavor to burgers, sandwiches, tacos, rice, and more. Bake them into cornbread or use whenever you don’t have fresh jalapeños on hand. I’ve included lots of delicious ways to make use of these zippy bites, and over time you’ll discover countless more ways to enjoy them!   This is one of those whisper-down-the-lane…

Appetizers, Snacks

Spiced Glazed Nuts & Pretzel Mix

Sweet and spicy mingle with salty and crunchy in this crowd-pleasing cocktail snack that doubles as a convenient hostess or holiday gift.   Want to add a gourmet touch to your next batch of chocolate chip cookies – or brownies or caramels for that matter? Dust the surface with the faintest bit of flaky sea…

Side Dishes

Easy 2-Ingredient Fermented Sauerkraut

2-ingredient homemade sauerkraut is loaded with gut-healthy probiotics and incredibly easy to make thanks to these step-by-step instructions. If pork & sauerkraut is part of your New Year’s Day tradition, you’re in luck!      I wear many hats in my role of food writer and recipe development. Writing, photography, editing, managing a website, the proverbial…

Condiments, Side Dishes

Quick Pickled Corn

Quick Pickled Corn is an easy-to-make condiment that will perk up burgers, tacos, and salads…and it tastes great by the spoonful, too!         Corn on the cob is the quintessential summer vegetable.  Who doesn’t love biting into a hot, buttery ear on a warm summer night?  It’s a little package of perfection that requires…

Condiments, Side Dishes, Snacks

Refrigerator Dill Pickles

No canner needed for these crisp, tangy Refrigerator Dill Pickles. Once the spices are assembled, they come together in a snap…and might just become a new summertime favorite!   Have you heard that Cleopatra thought eating pickles made her beautiful? Or that Christopher Columbus rationed pickles during his famous voyage in order to prevent his…

Burgers, Condiments, Side Dishes

Bowdoin Pickled Red Onions

Quick Pickled Red Onions add a punch of color and flavor to a variety of meats, tacos, sandwiches, salads, and more.  This easy-to-make condiment also happens to be evidence that delicious recipes can be found in the most unexpected places!   College dining services have come a long way since I was in school, that’s…

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