Make-Ahead Recipes

Polenta Croutons

Tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, these golden bites are simple to make and add staying power to salads๏ผalthough sneaky fingers are likely to devour them hot off the baking sheet!   When I was growing up, clothes shopping with my mom was purely functional.  We had fun, of course, but we…

Sunflower Basil Pesto

This easy recipe is economical, loaded with flavor, and ideal for families with a nut allergy. Plus the pesto freezes well, so you can enjoy the versatile condiment all year long!   If I were to choose just one condiment to get me through the summer, it would be pesto. The fresh seasonal sauce can…

Classic Deviled Eggs

A widely popular appetizer, side dish, or that little “something extra” at picnics, potlucks, holiday meals, and family dinners, this simple deviled egg recipe is a family favorite!   Deviled eggs have long been popular picnic and party fare. We all know the drill. Cut the cooked eggs in half lengthwise, scoop out the yolks,…

Deep Dark Chocolate Fudgesicles with Greek Yogurt

An easy-to-make treat that’s cool, creamy, and super chocolatey!   When my friend Nicole mentioned that 40 percent of what we do on a daily basis is habit, it really resonated. For several months, a small voice in my head had been telling me that I was eating too much sugar and that eliminating my…

Tzatziki (and a few graduation pictures!)

In addition to the requisite photos of this cool, creamy, perfectly summery sauce, I have graduation pictures for you!  As I mentioned last week, the past couple of weeks have been equal parts busy and exciting around here. The main event was last Thursday when John and 699 of his classmates paraded across the stage…

Crunchy Chicken Poppy Seed Slaw

We’re gearing up for our first graduation around here!  That on the heels of last weekend’s big garden tour — over 500 people came to our home over the course of the weekend.  (Major props to our sons who couldn’t shoot hoops or do much of anything else in our yard on the first sunny…

Low Country Shrimp Boil

This festive, all-in-one meal is sure to become a summertime favorite! For a small gathering or fun weeknight family meal, simply cut the recipe in half. When I offered to cook for a dozen or so family members this past Motherโ€™s Day, I pondered the perfect recipe long and hard. Ideally, the meal would be…

3-Ingredient Protein Cookies ย (with optional add-ins)

An ideal way to use overripe bananas, these wholesome cookies mix up in a minute or two in a single bowl, and a variety of optional add-ins allows them to be customized according to personal preference.       When the clock ran out and the ref blew his whistle in Rachel Dawsonโ€™s final Olympic…

Strawberry Avocado Salad

Quick and easy to make, full of fresh flavor, and tossed with a simple poppyseed dressing โ€“ a side of grilled chicken or salmon is all that’s needed for a light and satisfying summer meal.   As I glance back on the last few posts, things are looking rather fruity and salad-y. Tis the season,…

Honey Yogurt Poppy Seed Dressing

Nothing screams “Summer is almost here!” like red, ripe, juicy strawberries.  (Side note: This reminds me of one of my sons’ favorite childhood storybooks, The Little Mouse, the Red Ripe Strawberry, and the Big Hungry Bear.  If you have toddlers in your life and like to read aloud to them, this is a fun one!)  But…

Special Sauce recipe… and tips for a better burger

The sauce that makes the burger plus all the tips you need for the best backyard burgers!   โ€œTwo all-beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions on a sesame seed bunโ€ฆ.โ€ Can you almost hear the music? This iconic McDonaldโ€™s jingle was etched into my childhood brain, even though I never quite made the…

Blueberry Coconut Almond Baked Oatmeal

For added ease, prepare this filling casserole the night before and gently reheat in the morning. Serve as is or with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of milk. If you donโ€™t care for coconut, simply omit it from the recipe.       Flipping through my timeworn recipe box is like a…

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