Introduction: Rich, velvety, and made without cream, this butternut squash soup highlights the natural sweetness of roasted squash. Perfect for cool-weather nights or holiday menus, it’s simple yet full of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 large butternut squash (about 3 lb), halved and seeds removed

• 1 Tbsp olive oil + extra for drizzling

• ½ cup chopped shallot (≈ 1 large shallot bulb)

• 1 tsp salt

• 4 garlic cloves, minced or pressed

• 1 tsp maple syrup

• ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 3–4 cups vegetable broth (24–32 oz)

• 1–2 Tbsp butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Place squash halves cut-side down, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt & pepper. Roast 40–50 mins until tender and golden. Cool ~10 mins.

2. In a large soup pot over medium heat, warm 1 Tbsp olive oil. Add chopped shallot and 1 tsp salt; sauté 3–4 mins until softened. Add garlic, cook 1 min until fragrant.

3. Scoop squash flesh into a blender (discard skin). Add maple syrup, nutmeg, black pepper, and 3 cups broth. Blend until creamy. Add remaining broth if too thick, stir in butter or olive oil.

4. Pour back into pot to reheat, adjust seasoning with salt & pepper. Serve hot, optionally garnished with toasted pepitas or extra black pepper.

Final Thoughts: This soup balances cozy and refined without heavy cream. Great as a vegetarian main or comforting side, leftovers taste even better the next day. Freeze-friendly and easy to customize with garnish or flavor tweaks.

This Classic Sangria is the perfect summer drink—vibrant, fruity, and just the right balance of sweetness and sparkle. Made with red wine, fresh citrus, and sparkling water, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or lounging by the pool, this sangria will bring a festive vibe to your table.

Ingredients for Sangria

Core Ingredients

• 1 (750-ml) bottle red wine (Beaujolais for a light touch or Cabernet for a richer flavor)

• 1/4 cup brandy

• 1/4 cup orange-flavored liqueur (Triple Sec or Grand Marnier recommended)

• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

• 1/4 cup sugar

Fruits

• 1/2 orange, thinly sliced

• 1/2 lemon, thinly sliced

• 1 unwaxed apple, cored and cut into thin wedges

For the Sparkle

• 1 (750-ml) bottle sparkling water, chilled (add to taste)

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

• Thinly slice the orange and lemon. Core and slice the apple into thin wedges.

Step 2: Mix the Base

• In a large glass pitcher or plastic container, combine red wine, brandy, orange liqueur, lime juice, orange juice, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 3: Add the Fruits

• Add the sliced orange, lemon, and apple to the mixture. Stir gently to combine.

Step 4: Chill the Sangria

• Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Add the Sparkling Water

• Just before serving, pour in 2 cups of chilled sparkling water. Taste the sangria and add more sparkling water if desired for a lighter, bubblier drink.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the sangria over ice in wine glasses or tumblers. Add a piece of fruit to each glass for an extra festive touch.

Pro Tips for the Best Sangria

1. Choose the Right Wine: A fruity, medium-bodied red wine like Merlot, Zinfandel, or Garnacha works beautifully. Avoid overly expensive bottles—this recipe is about balance and fun.

2. Adjust Sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of the wine and fruit, you may want to adjust the sugar level to your taste.

3. Make It Your Own: Feel free to add other fruits like berries, peaches, or pineapple for a unique twist.

4. Serve Fresh: Sangria is best enjoyed the same day it's made to prevent bitterness from citrus rind oils.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Food: Sangria pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tapas, or light appetizers like cheese boards and bruschetta.

• For a Crowd: Double or triple the recipe for larger gatherings—just keep the sparkling water separate until ready to serve.

• Non-Alcoholic Version: Substitute red wine with grape juice and brandy with orange juice. Use sparkling water as directed.

Why You’ll Love This Sangria Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in minutes and chills while you focus on hosting.

• Customizable: Add your favorite fruits or adjust the sweetness to suit your taste.

• Perfect for Summer: Light, fruity, and refreshing, this drink screams sunny days and outdoor fun.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Sangria recipe is your go-to for effortless summer entertaining. It’s versatile, refreshing, and packed with vibrant flavors. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying it solo, this sangria will transport you straight to a sunny Spanish patio. Cheers to summer, one glass at a time!

If you're searching for the perfect peanut butter cookie recipe, look no further! This classic recipe, passed down from Grandma and made with love by her 10-year-old granddaughter, is a family favorite. These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with peanut butter flavor – perfect for snacks, road trips, or just a sweet treat at home.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and steps make this perfect for beginner bakers.

• Soft & Chewy Texture – Perfectly balanced for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

• Rich Peanut Butter Flavor – The ultimate treat for peanut butter lovers.

• Great for Any Occasion – A perfect addition to lunchboxes, bake sales, or road trips!

Ingredients

• 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, your choice!)

• 1/2 cup butter, softened

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed

• 2 eggs

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, butter, sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.

2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

3. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

1. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

2. Use a fork to gently press down on each cookie, creating a crisscross pattern.

3. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

4. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Final Thoughts

These Grandma's Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies are a timeless classic, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you're making them for a road trip, a family gathering, or just because, they’re sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tip:

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze for longer freshness.

Lamb Souvlaki is a beloved Greek dish, bursting with Mediterranean flavors. While I have yet to find a recipe that transports me straight to the vibrant streets of the Danforth, this one comes pretty close. The key to achieving tender, flavorful lamb is a well-balanced marinade and enough time for the flavors to infuse.

Why This Lamb Souvlaki Recipe Works

• Authentic Greek flavors: The combination of oregano, rosemary, lemon, and garlic creates a rich and fragrant marinade.

• Tender and juicy meat: Marinating for several hours ensures maximum flavor absorption.

• Easy to prepare: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this a great go-to dish for grilling season.

Ingredients

For the Lamb:

• 1 Leg of Lamb Roast

• 1/4 cup lemon juice

• 1/8 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1 shallot, finely diced

• 1-2 cloves garlic, finely diced

• 1 tablespoon Greek oregano

• 1 tablespoon rosemary

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Lamb

Trim excess fat from the lamb roast and cut it into 1 1/2 - 2 inch cubes. This size helps the meat cook evenly while retaining juiciness.

Step 2: Marinate the Meat

Place the lamb cubes in an airtight container. Add the lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, diced shallot, garlic, oregano, and rosemary. Mix well to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 5-6 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

Preheat the BBQ to medium-high heat. Skewer the marinated lamb pieces and grill, turning periodically, for approximately 10-15 minutes or until the meat is cooked to your desired doneness.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot with rice, grilled vegetables, and a side of creamy tzatziki for dipping. This meal is perfect for a summer BBQ or a cozy Mediterranean-inspired dinner at home.

Pro Tips for Perfect Lamb Souvlaki

• Marinade Matters: The longer the lamb marinates, the deeper the flavors will be.

• Skewer Smart: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

• Temperature Control: Grill over medium-high heat for the best balance between a charred exterior and juicy interior.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this delicious lamb souvlaki with:

• A fresh Greek salad with feta and olives.

• Pita bread for wrapping into a gyro-style meal.

• A glass of crisp white wine like Assyrtiko.

Final Thoughts

Lamb Souvlaki is a classic Greek dish that never disappoints. The secret to an authentic taste is in the marinade and patience—letting the flavors meld together for hours results in an unbeatable taste. While this recipe may not fully transport me to the Danforth, it certainly satisfies the craving for a delicious, home-cooked souvlaki.

Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out! Kali Orexi! (Enjoy your meal!)