The chicken parmesan calzone is one of those comfort-food creations that stuck with me since college. While studying at Saint Anselm College in Manchester, NH, I fell in love with a version of this calzone that became the stuff of campus lore. For anyone who remembers those late-night meals and shared slices, you know what … Read more

The pillowy texture of perfectly cooked gnocchi is one of the most satisfying bites. Whether you use store-bought gnocchi or make them from scratch, this creamy sauce highlights fresh spring flavors and is sure to become a seasonal favorite. The dill and green peppercorns lend a subtle, aromatic note, while blanched sugar snap peas add … Read more

Vegan scallops are made from hearts of palm marinated with lemon and infused with seaweed. This quick vegan scallops recipe cooks in about 10 minutes for an easy weeknight dinner. The first time I tried vegan scallops they were made from oyster mushrooms. While mushrooms are tasty, they lacked the right texture for a scallop … Read more

Today’s Recipes: Zuni-Style Dry Brined Turkey and Foolproof Turkey Gravy Thanksgiving Dinner Zuni Cafe in San Francisco is an unforgettable dining experience. Housed in an older building with brick walls, high ceilings, and a long copper bar, the restaurant has a warm, eclectic atmosphere with small rooms, lofts, and interesting architectural twists. Co-owner and head … Read more

Have you tried this hot cocoa fudge yet? It’s a hot chocolate–flavored fudge that literally melts in your mouth. Semi-sweet and milk chocolate combine to create a rich, creamy fudge studded with pockets of mini marshmallows and finished with marshmallows pressed on top. One piece won’t be enough. The mini marshmallows add a delightful chew … Read more

Sheet Pan Roasted Veggies (vegetarian, vegan) combine bright, seasonal produce with a fragrant infused oil to create a light, healthy, and flavorful vegetable side dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect any night of the week. I have an ongoing love affair with sheet pan roasted vegetables — they’re simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. If … Read more

Cook up a batch of my Homemade Baked Beans for your next BBQ or cookout and impress family and guests with an unbeatable side dish. Sweet, savory and slightly smoky, these baked beans with bacon make the perfect summer accompaniment. If you need a classic side for a potluck, this easy baked bean recipe is … Read more

These rich, fudgy brownies are topped with a peppermint chocolate ganache and sprinkled with crushed candy canes — holiday baking at its best. If you love peppermint and chocolate, these may be the most festive brownies you make this season. This post has been sponsored by Sprouts. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank … Read more

Skillet flank steak fajitas deliver bold, sizzling flavor and make an impressive table-side presentation. Cooked in a cast iron skillet, everything stays hot so you can serve straight from the pan. These fajitas are built on simply marinated flank steak and tender bell peppers and onions seasoned with paprika, cumin, and a touch of lime. … Read more

After years of informal cooking and baking in both home and commercial kitchens, I finally decided to take the next step: culinary school. I’ll be blogging my weekly impressions, summarizing what I’m learning and how the program is shaping my skills. Writing these posts helps me process lessons more deeply and become a better student. … Read more