Steak and Spicy Salad (for one)

Grapefruit Mojito

Fresh mint, lime, and grapefruit zest muddled together with rum and topped with club soda for a citrus-forward twist on the classic mojito. A bright, refreshing cocktail that pairs perfectly with a Cuban-inspired spread.

Recipes

Mexican Hot Chocolate Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

A rich, two-layer chocolate cake spiked with chipotle and cinnamon, frosted with tangy cream cheese frosting and dusted with cocoa. A dramatic birthday cake with a spicy Mexican chocolate twist that makes the guest of honor feel truly celebrated.

Recipes

Valerie’s Shakin' Chicken

These Shakin’ Chicken cutlets are my go-to for a crispy, flavorful dinner that’s easy to make ahead and keep in the freezer. Cook them whenever you need a quick, comforting meal — especially perfect topped with a fresh, lemony arugula salad.

Recipes

Rosemary and Pepper Crackers

Homemade crispy crackers studded with rosemary, black pepper, and Parmesan. A savory, addictive snack perfect for movie night munching.

Recipes

Roasted Winter Vegetables

Recipes

Crispy Pancetta Crostini with Arugula-Lemon Pesto

Toasted baguette slices topped with baked crispy pancetta and a bright arugula pesto made with pine nuts, Parmesan, and fresh lemon. A savory, crunchy appetizer that balances salty pancetta with peppery, citrus-kissed greens.

Recipes

Super Fast Rum Raisin Egg Nog

Vanilla ice cream is blended with milk, dark rum, and bourbon until thick and creamy, then poured into glasses and topped with freshly grated nutmeg. This shortcut eggnog skips the egg-tempering fuss entirely, delivering a rich, boozy, holiday-ready drink in under five minutes.

Recipes

Three Bean Turkey Chili

Ground turkey browned and simmered with pinto, kidney, and black beans, tomatoes, green chiles, and chicken broth until hearty and thick. A leaner, protein-packed chili that is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers.

Recipes

Special Negroni

A sophisticated cocktail combining gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and fresh orange juice, stirred and strained over ice. Garnished with an orange peel for a citrusy take on the classic Negroni.

Recipes

Set-It-and-Forget-It Pot Roast

A tender beef chuck roast slow-cooked with garlic until it falls apart. The quintessential hands-off Sunday dinner main course.

Looking to make something else?

Other Recipes