Food

By Paige RhodesAs the summer comes to a close, the kids are getting ready to head back to school. Whether you’re ready to get them out of the house or you’re bummed that they won’t be around anymore, this time of year brings orientations, teacher conferences, and PTA meet-and-greets to keep you busy. If you want to make a good impression at these events, homemade cookies are always a good idea. Chocolate chip cookies are perfect for the kiddos, but if you’re treating the adults, white chocolate macadamia nut is the way to go. These [...]

By Paige RhodesBy now, your gardens are probably starting to fill with the fruits (and veggies) of your labor. Giant zucchini, juicy watermelon, and sweet heirloom tomatoes make all of your TLC worth the time and effort. But, what do you do with it all when it starts taking over your counters? Pickling is a great way to preserve your produce while completely transforming its flavor. Whether used to dress up a Bloody Mary or served on the side of a burger, these sweet and spicy pickled veggies will add a zesty bite to any [...]

By Paige RhodesIf you’re a true Southerner, your summers were probably spent snacking on vegetables from the garden. This surely included cucumbers that were soaked in white vinegar, sugar, and water. Maybe it’s because cucumbers are a bountiful summer crop, but that dish seemed to be a commonality in a lot of families. This Cucumber, Radish, and Fennel Salad with Mandarin Dressing is a modern homage to that beloved snack. Every time you enjoy it, you will be taken back to those sticky days filled with deceptive Cool Whip containers packed with sour soaked cucumbers. [...]

By Paige RhodesWhile we certainly can’t take credit for their invention, deviled eggs are a Southern tradition that go way back in our history. Classic deviled eggs are made with mayonnaise, mustard, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, and a sprinkle of paprika. The recipe below still has a mayonnaise base but with a hint of mustard powder and a bit of Old Bay seasoning to complement the main ingredient — deliciously sweet and salty crab. Lump crabmeat is always best, but a blend would work just fine. (Just promise you won’t go the imitation route [...]

By Paige RhodesEveryone expects to see Mint Juleps on your Derby Day spread, but instead of doing the same thing as last year and the year before that, try this twist on the traditional cocktail. Instead of diluting your drink with unnecessary water from the crushed or shaved ice, substitute granita for even more flavor. In this Mint Julep version, you’ll infuse the granita — an Italian semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water, and various flavorings — with fresh mint and a splash of crème de menthe. Pour over your desired amount of bourbon to [...]

By Paige RhodesNothing says Valentine’s Day quite like chocolate covered strawberries. But, these Triple Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cookies are a great homemade alternative to give to a loved one. If you’ve never used freeze-dried fruit in baked goods, this is the perfect opportunity to try it. They add intense flavor and color without adding any extra moisture, which is key when baking. While these are perfect for a Valentine’s Day treat, you can easily make them all year long! Ingredients2 cups all-purpose flour1 1.2 ounce bag of freeze dried strawberries 1 tsp baking soda1 ½ [...]