Broccoli and Cheddar Casserole with Crispy Topping

featured 5545

There’s nothing more comforting than a warm, cheesy casserole on the table. This Best Ever Broccoli Cheese Casserole makes an ideal side for holiday dinners and potlucks, and it’s hearty enough for a cozy family supper. The recipe is highly adaptable — add Cheese Whiz for extra creaminess, stir in cooked rice to bulk it … Read more

Seed and Date Energy Bars for Natural Boost

featured 21901

I stay active year-round, but when warm weather arrives I try to spend as much time outdoors as possible. Being on the move all day takes energy, so before you lose momentum, grab one of these quick and easy Seed & Date Power Bars. They deliver a clean burst of energy and are simple to … Read more

Red Wine-Poached Pear Salad with Blue Cheese, Pancetta & Walnuts

featured 47403

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on any Amazon links on my website and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. It’s a great way to support my blog, so I can keep sharing … Read more

6 Tasty Substitutes for Spaghetti Squash in Savory Dishes

featured 188935

Ever tried swapping out spaghetti squash in a favorite recipe? It’s easier than you think. At home we love how versatile spaghetti squash (a winter squash, Cucurbita pepo, that separates into noodle-like strands when cooked) can be, but sometimes a change is welcome. Below are six excellent alternatives that keep meals interesting and flavorful while … Read more

Family Well-Being Matters More to Me Than Schoolwork

featured 18456

Right now, we’re all spending a lot more time at home together. Even essential workers who leave the house still find themselves confined to home more than they used to. I’m doing the work-from-home job that previously gave me several uninterrupted hours each day. I’m now a 2nd and 3rd grade teacher—at the same time. … Read more

Crispy Cast-Iron Chicken Thighs with Roasted Potatoes

featured 4052

Made in a single pan, this cast iron chicken thighs and potatoes recipe is an ideal weeknight dinner. Ready in about an hour, this one-pan meal is comforting, flavorful, and effortless to prepare. This chicken-and-potatoes dish is one of my favorites. Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs stay tender and juicy while developing a crisp, golden skin. … Read more

Caprese Skewers Recipe: Fresh Tomato, Mozzarella & Basil Bites

featured 4000

Caprese skewers make an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer any time of year. Cubes of crusty ciabatta, grape or cherry tomatoes, small mozzarella balls and fresh basil are threaded onto toothpicks and finished with a glossy balsamic reduction for a bright, flavorful bite perfect for parties and holiday gatherings. Caprese salad is ideal year-round. To make it … Read more

Fudgy Low-Sugar Brownies: Simple Recipe for Rich Chocolate Treats

featured 1991

I realize that’s a bold claim, but these Fudgy Low Sugar Brownies deliver the classic dense, moist brownie texture using almost half the sugar of typical recipes. Sugar plays functional roles beyond sweetness, so reducing it requires technique — but this recipe preserves a shiny crinkly top and an ultra-fudgy interior while using only about … Read more

Potato Bliss: Boiled Baby Potatoes in Bacon Butter Sauce

featured 2705

Boiled Baby Potatoes tossed in a rich buttery bacon and onion sauce make an irresistible side dish. Small Yukon Gold or red baby potatoes are perfect here—keep the skins on for fresh creamers, and finish with lots of dill and sliced scallions. Serve with sour cream for a comforting meal the whole family will enjoy.

 

Ukrainian baby boiled potatoes in butter bacon sauce

Read more

Saint Ann Dallas: In-Depth Review of the Restaurant & Menu

featured 5492

For my TheaterJones bi-weekly “Dinner and a Show” column, I selected a restaurant that complements the Meyerson Symphony Center. With beautiful spring weather, I chose a patio spot with plenty of ambiance — Saint Ann Restaurant and Bar in Dallas. Below is a Saint Ann Dallas restaurant review with recommendations on what to order and … Read more