Olivia's Dirt Pie: A Garden Treat Too Cute to Weed OutWe planted a garden…in a pie dish.Some recipes stick because they’re delicious. Others because they’re simple. But this one’s special because of the tiny hands that first made it.When my daughter Olivia was five, she started making this ice cream tart almost entirely on her own. It quickly earned the nickname “Olivia’s Dirt Pie” among our friends — thanks to the crushed Oreos that reminded her of soil. Over the years, it’s become a go-to ...
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Cherry Chocolate Cake with Brandy Whipped Cream
Cherry Chocolate Cake: Brandy, Berries & Boxed Cake BlissSome recipes are fussy. This one isn't. And maybe that’s part of the magic.This cherry chocolate cake has been in my husband’s family for years — originally baked in a large tray for potlucks, picnics, and celebrations. I’ve adapted it into a round springform cake and added one little luxury: a soft brandy whipped cream, inspired by my love for Black Forest cake.It’s unapologetically simple. You won’t find scratch-made batter or fresh ...
Cilantro Lime White Chicken Enchiladas
The Saucy Weeknight Enchiladas You'll Keep MakingMexican food wasn’t part of my childhood, but after moving to the States, I slowly started exploring all its bold, vibrant flavors. Some dishes took time to grow on me, but these enchiladas? They were love at first bite. Over the years, they’ve become one of my secret-weapon recipes: simple enough for a weeknight, but just special enough to bring to a friend or serve to a crowd. (And yes, I’ve dropped them off with a couple margaritas for new ...
Mini Chicken Salad Croissants
My Favorite Picnic Sandwiches (That Always Disappear First)We’re in the heart of spring here in Tennessee, and one of my favorite ways to celebrate the season is with a picnic. Whether it’s at a nearby vineyard, a quiet park, or even our own backyard, there’s something magical about gathering outdoors as the world comes alive around us. The blooming trees, the warm breeze, the clink of a glass—these little moments of togetherness and beauty help reset our pace and set the tone for the season ...
Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd's Pie (a.k.a. The Meal That Heals) In our home, this cozy, hearty dish is more than just dinner—it’s a cure-all. It’s our favorite winter-night comfort food, and my go-to for meal-train blessings. In fact, it’s become such a staple in our lives that we now call it “the meal that heals.”This nickname came about after I brought it to a dear friend who was recovering from heart surgery. The next morning, I received this text:“Hi Nanette. Thanks so much for dinner yesterday. It was awesome. ...
Blueberry Apple Crisp
Bubbling Blueberry Apple Crisp (and the Scent of Welcome)If you ask me, there are few aromas more comforting than a baked dessert fresh from the oven—and I think this one might take the cake (no pun intended). The scent of warm cinnamon and oats mingling with bubbling fruit is exactly the kind of welcome I want my family or guests to experience as they walk through the door. It’s cozy. It’s nostalgic. And it’s delicious.As I worked on developing this recipe, I experimented with different fruit ...
Roasted Acorn Squash with Cinnamon Sugar
Roasted Acorn Squash with Cinnamon Sugar (“Squashies”)Growing up, we ate what we called groen pampoentjies — little green pumpkins — almost every week. My mom would boil gem squash halves, scoop out the seeds, and serve them right in their shells with butter, sugar, and cinnamon. I loved it. We were told they’d “make your hair grow pretty, healthy curls,” and since they tasted like dessert, I never complained when they showed up on my plate.After moving to the States, we realized gem squash is ...
Bacon, Mushroom & Artichoke Quiche
Bacon, Mushroom & Artichoke Souttert (Savory Quiche)Souttert — or “savory tart” — is one of the most versatile recipes in my kitchen. Similar to a French quiche, it’s simple, adaptable, and works for just about any meal of the day.Paired with a crisp salad, it’s one of our favorite weeknight dinners. Add a fruit parfait or just a good cappuccino, and it’s brunch-worthy, too. I recently made one for a friend who had just welcomed her first baby, and she told me how perfect it was during those ...
