Christmas Recipes
Fennel Salad
Mix up your salad routine with this fresh, crisp combination of fennel, apples, celery, arugula, nuts, and cheese that’s always a surprise hit! As the first recipe with fennel on this site, I debated the details of this salad long and hard. Of course, some may be wondering: why did it take 14 years to…
Union Square Cafe Bar Nuts
Inspired by the iconic New York City restaurant, these rosemary-infused nuts are lightly spiced, perfectly salted, and completely irresistible. Snack on them anytime, or enjoy as a pre-dinner nibble with your drink of choice. The first time I ate at the famed Union Square Café years ago, we started our meal with the bar nuts.…
Rosemary Simple Syrup
A fragrant, easy-to-make syrup that adds an herbal twist to cocktails and mocktails — even baked goods, coffee, and tea. If you’ve made my Rosemary Paloma (which tastes great in non-alcoholic and classic form!), you already know how this simple syrup can transform the drink. A quick simmer of sugar, water, fresh rosemary, and a…
Rosemary Paloma (NA or Classic)
Grapefruit, lime, and rosemary are the stars of this fizzy, bright drink that’s delicious with or without the alcohol. If you’re looking for a signature drink that works for everyone at the table, this Rosemary Paloma may be your new go-to. When I was creating the recipe, I wanted something refreshing, seasonal, and a little…
The 2025 Holiday Gift List
Thinking of the perfect holiday gift for the special people in our lives tends to be harder than the actual shopping. In that spirit, the following list is full of delights that are bound to please even the hard-to-gift people in your life! Coming up with gift ideas that are thoughtful, clever, and won’t end…
Mustard Sauce for Crab Claws
With just four ingredients, this speedy dipping sauce is the perfect match for crab claws yet versatile enough to jazz up shrimp, fish, chicken, sandwiches, and more. This sauce was inspired by summer vacations on the Jersey shore and the appetizer I’ve considered a special treat since I was a little girl. The bite-size yet…
How to Prepare King Crab Legs
Learn the best way to cook tender, juicy king crab legs for fun and festive meals any time of year. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, New Year’s Eve, birthday celebrations, and “just because” special dinners. If you want to make a statement, king crab legs will do it. The massive crustaceans, which are caught in the…
Jeweled Salad
This stunning salad adds fresh flavor and visual appeal to weeknight dinners and holiday meals alike. And while the recipe is delightful as is, there are many ways to customize depending on what you like and have on hand. Any meal can benefit from the crisp crunch and visual appeal of a good salad. Perhaps…
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…
Make-Ahead Baked Mashed Potatoes
This flexible, make-ahead mashed potato recipe is a sure-fire hit on a holiday table. You can even freeze it before baking, and the Parmesan crust will not disappoint! Even though my job is all about cooking, I rely on make-ahead dishes as much as the next person. Ironically, aspects of The Fountain Avenue Kitchen often…
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
Nothing is more seasonal than hot chocolate…except maybe peppermint. This recipes combines both for a delicious, brownie-like cookie that may be your new family tradition! The name of these cookies caught my attention right away. How unique does a peppermint hot chocolate cookie sound? And what precisely would their taste and texture be like? I…
Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Crisp edges, chewy insides, puddles of semi-sweet chocolate chips, and a sea salt topping – plus nutty, caramel notes from the browned butter. These chocolate chip cookies are what dreams are made of! When asked why these cookies are Steve Lindsey’s favorite, his answer was short, sweet, and summed up his award-winning recipe quite succinctly:…
