2025 was a quieter year at home- more routine, more cooking, and a deeper rhythm in the kitchen. From favorite dishes I made to recipes I developed and the cookbooks that inspired me most, this roundup captures what I cooked, loved, and learned along the way.
If you’ve never had strata, it’s the perfect Christmas morning treat as most of the work is done ahead of time, and it’s a hearty, warming dish ideal for a cold winter morning. This spin on a family favorite ups the flavor with a homemade mushroom cream sauce and crispy shallots!
A comprehensive ranking of Ina Garten’s seven turkey recipes, highlighting her signature techniques like dry brining and turkey roulade. Each recipe earns perfect marks, but offers unique approaches to achieving moist, flavorful meat.
Ten years ago, I set out to cook every single Ina Garten recipe—a project inspired by Julie & Julia. What began as a way to learn how to cook grew into a life-changing adventure filled with recipes, friendships, personal growth, and unforgettable memories – culminating in cooking with Ina herself.
I transformed a childhood favorite into a zesty summer delight with this Spicy Cucumber Salad featuring pickled red onions. Thinly sliced cucumbers are combined with homemade pickled onions, sour cream, and a touch of heat for a refreshing dish that balances cool creaminess with tangy spice. An ideal accompaniment for warm evenings.
My grandpa discovered a red velvet cake recipe in the ’60s that became a family legend. The key is in the heritage frosting. After tweaking the original recipe, I achieved a moist, tender, and vibrant red sponge. Double the frosting for a perfect four-layer delight!
Try these Spicy Cucumber Margaritas with a Tajin/Sumac Rim! Inspired by Ina Garten’s spicy margarita, this version combines jalapeño-infused tequila, cucumber juice, lime, and honey. It’s a refreshing, spicy drink perfect for summer, with a salty, citrusy kick from the rim.
Check out my favorite recipes for the grill from classic Memorial Day treats like Niman Ranch Burgers with Caramelized Onions and Townline’s BBQ Pork Ribs to new favorites such as Grilled Peaches with Amaretti and Grilled Oysters with Lemon Dill Butter.