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!)

Switching up the burger routine can be a delightful adventure, and these Chicken Burgers are proof! Made with simple ingredients, they’re juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a summer BBQ or a quick dinner idea. I served them on homemade sour cream hamburger buns (using a modified sour cream bread recipe), and they were a huge hit with the whole family—kids included!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These chicken burgers are:

• Healthier than traditional beef burgers

• Quick to prepare with basic pantry ingredients

• Customizable with your favorite seasonings and toppings

• Perfect for weeknight dinners or backyard BBQs

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground chicken

• ½ cup bread crumbs

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• ¼ tsp salt

• 2 dashes cayenne pepper

• A pinch of Old Bay seasoning

Instructions

1. Preheat the grill.
Set your BBQ grill to medium-high heat to ensure even cooking.

2. Prepare the patties.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, bread crumbs, garlic, salt, cayenne pepper, and Old Bay seasoning. Mix until well combined. Shape the mixture into evenly sized patties.

3. Grill the burgers.
Place the patties on the preheated grill and cook until fully cooked through, about 5–7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

4. Add the finishing touches.
In the final minute of grilling, top the patties with your favorite cheese (optional) and let it melt.

5. Assemble your burger.
Serve the chicken burgers on toasted buns with your choice of condiments and toppings. Some ideas include lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, or a dollop of spicy aioli.

Tips for Success

• Avoid Dryness: Chicken patties can dry out quickly, so don’t overcook them. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

• Homemade Buns: If you’re feeling adventurous, try making homemade buns to elevate your burger game. My sour cream bread dough works beautifully for this!

• Mix-Ins: Feel free to add finely chopped herbs like parsley or chives to the burger mixture for extra flavor.

Variations

• Spicy Chicken Burgers: Add extra cayenne or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture.

• Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh dill, cilantro, or basil for a fragrant twist.

• Asian-Inspired: Use panko bread crumbs and add a dash of soy sauce and ginger for a fusion flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Chicken Burgers are a delicious departure from traditional beef burgers. They’re flavorful, healthier, and easy to make, making them a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation or summer grilling repertoire. My kids devoured them and were begging for seconds, which is always a win in my book.

What’s your favorite way to top a chicken burger? Let me know in the comments below!

Lasagna has always been one of my favorite go-to comfort meals, and this recipe is a true family treasure. It all started when I treated myself to some new kitchen essentials—shiny saucepans, a kiwi-colored kettle, and the pièce de résistance: a beautiful lasagna pan. Excited to try out my new cookware, I got to work whipping up this cheesy, hearty lasagna.

Sometimes I use homemade pasta; other times, I rely on boxed noodles—this recipe works wonderfully with both! Last night, I even combined spinach and regular noodles to clean out the cupboard.

This recipe is all about layers of flavor, a combination of gooey cheeses, and a rich meat sauce that makes every bite a satisfying experience. Perfect for dinner parties, a comforting family meal, or freezer-ready leftovers!

Why You’ll Love This Lasagna Recipe

• Rich and Flavorful: Layers of meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey cheeses make every bite unforgettable.

• Customizable: Use your favorite cheeses, mix and match noodles, or add a personal touch to make it yours.

• Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for batch cooking and easy reheating on busy weeknights.

Ingredients

For the Lasagna:

• 1 ½ boxes lasagna noodles (regular or spinach)

• 2 tubs fresh ricotta cheese (approx. 32 oz total)

• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese

• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese

• Optional: ½ cup shredded asiago or emmental cheese

For the Meat Sauce:

• Your favorite homemade or store-bought spaghetti meat sauce (enough for layering generously)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

• Boil the noodles according to package instructions. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the water to prevent sticking.

• Once cooked, rinse the noodles with cold water and set them aside in a colander.

Step 2: Assemble the Layers

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Start with a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of your lasagna pan.

3. Add a layer of noodles on top.

4. Spread fresh ricotta cheese over the noodles as evenly as possible.

5. Spoon a generous amount of meat sauce over the ricotta layer. (Optional: Mix ricotta with some sauce in a bowl before layering.)

6. Sprinkle a mix of shredded cheeses over the sauce.

7. Repeat the layers: noodles, ricotta, meat sauce, shredded cheeses, until the pan is filled (about 4–5 layers).

Step 3: Bake

• Bake uncovered at 350°F for 45 minutes.

• Remove from the oven and let the lasagna rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Perfect Lasagna

• Cheese Variations: Use what you have! Mozzarella, parmesan, asiago, and provolone are my favorites, but feel free to experiment.

• Noodle Prep: Draining and rinsing noodles in cold water prevents them from sticking and makes assembly easier.

• Freezing Tip: Leftovers freeze beautifully. Slice cooled lasagna into portions and store in foil containers for quick reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this cheesy lasagna with:

• A fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette.

• Garlic bread or a crusty baguette.

• A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot.

Final Thoughts

Marnie’s Cheesy Meat Lasagna is a recipe for the ages—simple, customizable, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or prepping meals for the week ahead, this lasagna won’t disappoint. Serve it fresh from the oven or enjoy it as leftovers; it’s a dish that only gets better with time.

Let me know if you try this recipe or make any tweaks—I’d love to hear your thoughts! Happy cooking!

These Classic Buttermilk Scones are the ultimate addition to your breakfast table or afternoon tea. Light, buttery, and deliciously tender, they’re easy to make with simple pantry staples. The recipe can also be doubled to accommodate larger gatherings, making it perfect for any occasion. Serve them warm with butter, jam, or clotted cream for a delightful treat!

Ingredients for Buttermilk Scones

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 6 tablespoons cold butter (3/4 stick), cut into small pieces

• 1/2 cup buttermilk

• 2 tablespoons sweet milk (for brushing tops)

Directions to Make Buttermilk Scones

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 2: Add the Butter

• Cut the cold butter into small pieces and add them to the dry ingredients.

• Using a pastry blender or two knives, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles small peas.

Step 3: Add the Buttermilk

• Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Pour in the buttermilk.

• Using a fork, gently pull the dry mixture into the buttermilk until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

• Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently until smooth, about 5–6 turns.

• Roll or pat the dough to about 1-inch thickness. Use a biscuit cutter or a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut the dough into shapes.

Step 5: Bake the Scones

• Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each.

• Brush the tops with sweet milk for a golden finish.

• Bake for 12 minutes, or until the scones are lightly browned on top.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Remove the scones from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with your favorite toppings!

Tips for Perfect Buttermilk Scones

1. Use Cold Butter: Cold butter is key to creating those flaky layers, so handle it quickly to prevent melting.

2. Don’t Overmix: Overworking the dough can make the scones tough. Mix until just combined.

3. Add Flavors: For a twist, mix in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, or add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.

Serving Suggestions

• Sweet: Serve with clotted cream, butter, or fruit preserves for a classic tea-time treat.

• Savory: Pair with a slice of cheese, smoked salmon, or a dollop of herbed cream cheese.

• Beverages: Enjoy with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or even a chilled glass of lemonade for summer gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make this a go-to recipe for busy mornings.

• Versatile: Easily customizable with sweet or savory add-ins to suit your taste.

• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for brunch, tea parties, or as a warm and inviting treat for guests.

Final Thoughts

These Classic Buttermilk Scones are a must-try recipe for anyone who loves soft, buttery baked goods. With just a few simple steps, you can create a batch of flaky, golden scones that are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you enjoy them with a sweet spread or a savory twist, this recipe is a timeless addition to your kitchen.