Snack and Salad

There’s something about a good BLT pasta salad that just makes my heart flutter! It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures, encapsulating the essence of summer picnics and family barbecues. I can still remember the first time I made this dish; it was a sunny afternoon, and I invited a few friends over for a casual get-together. With the crunch of fresh lettuce, crispy bacon, and the tangy burst of tomatoes, it quickly became a hit! It’s honestly a meal that brings everyone together, and it’s become a staple in my recipe book. What I love most about this … Read more

Ah, Jell-O shots! They always remind me of summer barbecues and carefree parties, but who says this wobbly treat has to be just for adults? That’s right, I’ve got a kid-friendly version that will delight the little ones just as much as the grown-ups, minus the alcohol, of course! These colorful, fruity delights are perfect for birthday parties, family gatherings, or just a fun afternoon treat. I remember my niece’s birthday party where we made these together, and the kids couldn’t get enough of watching them jiggle while they were setting up in the fridge – pure joy! What makes … Read more

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about gelatin desserts, and when it comes to fun treats for kids (and those who are kids at heart), Fun & Easy Jello Roll Ups take the cake! I remember the first time I made these with my little cousins during a family gathering. We ended up with more Jello on our faces than on our plates, but the laughter and silly moments made it an unforgettable day. What I love about these Jello Roll Ups is how they’re a simple, colorful way to serve a classic favorite. Whether it’s for a birthday party, a school … Read more

Ah, the Italian Chopped Salad! This vibrant, colorful dish always brings a smile to my face and rumbles to my tummy. It’s a staple in my kitchen, especially during the warmer months when fresh produce is just bursting with flavor. I remember the first time I made it; I was hosting a summer BBQ for friends, and this salad was the star of the show. Everyone kept going back for seconds, and I had to give them the recipe before they left so they could enjoy it at home too! What I love most about Italian Chopped Salad is its … Read more

There’s just something magical about baking cookies, don’t you think? Every time I pull a batch of warm cookies from the oven, I’m instantly transported back to my childhood, when summer days seemed to stretch on forever, and the kitchen was filled with the sweet scent of chocolate. One of my absolute favorite cookie recipes is for July Cookies with M&M’s. They’re fun, colorful, and perfectly chewy—like little bites of happiness! I remember the first time I made these cookies with my little sister. It was a sunny, sweltering July afternoon, and we decided to turn the kitchen into our … Read more

I’m so excited to share my favorite recipe for Arabic salad with you! This dish is not just a delightful explosion of colors and flavors; it’s also a staple in my home, often making its appearance during family gatherings and casual dinners alike. I remember my mom taught me to make this salad during lazy Sunday afternoons, and now I’ve come to appreciate how simple yet elegant it is. What I love most about Arabic salad—also known as “Fattoush” in some circles—is its freshness. The vibrant mix of herbs, veggies, and tangy dressing brings life into any meal. Whether you’re … Read more

Ah, Toasted Coconut Shortbread! This treat holds a special place in my heart and my kitchen. There’s just something magical about that buttery crunch combined with the delightful chew of toasted coconut that transports me straight to a sunlit beach, even if I’m just in my cozy living room. I remember the first time I made these beauties; I was on a mission to impress my friends at a holiday gathering. Spoiler alert: they devoured the entire batch in record time, and I haven’t stopped making them since! What I love about Toasted Coconut Shortbread is their simplicity. The ingredients … Read more

Oh, fried chicken salad! What a delightful way to mix crunchy, savory, and fresh all in one dish. I can still remember the first time I had this glorious salad at a local bistro. It was a sunny Sunday afternoon, and I was meeting up with some friends for brunch. We were all in the mood to indulge, and when I saw “fried chicken salad” on the menu, I knew I had to try it. The salad arrived piled high with crispy, flavorful fried chicken, fresh greens, and all sorts of colorful veggies. One bite, and I was hooked! The … Read more

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made my special “Marry Me Chickpeas” recipe and how many friends and family members have been totally wowed by it! There’s something about the combination of flavors – hearty chickpeas mixed with aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of lemon that feels like a warm embrace in a bowl. Whenever I serve this dish, it’s like I can hear wedding bells in the background. The best part? This dish is incredibly versatile! I first tried it at a friend’s potluck, and I was smitten at first bite. Picture this: cozy evenings, … Read more

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Handmade Blackberry Cookies! Picture it: the air is filled with the sweet, tangy scent of fresh blackberries, and the kitchen is warm with the promise of deliciousness. I first made these cookies during a summer berry-picking adventure with my family. We gathered so many blackberries that I was practically floating on a cloud of purple bliss! When we got back home, I whipped up these cookies, and, oh boy, they were a hit! They not only taste amazing but also boast this spectacular all-natural blue hue—yes, blue! But don’t worry, it’s … Read more