Why I Stopped Being Vegan: My Personal Journey and Choices

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I like burgers too much. Mmmmm burgers… But wait! Of course today is April Fool’s Day, and these “burgers” are actually whoopie pies. Mmmm chocolate burgers. Who needs meat when you can have chocolate? Hamburger Whoopie Pies (makes about 12 small sandwich circles) Adapted from S’mores Whoopie Pies. These tiny chocolate whoopie pies are perfect … Read more

Create a Summer Routine That Actually Works

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In my previous post, I explained three reasons why having a summer routine is important for your family. Without some structure, it’s easy to let the season slip by unproductively. The good news is that creating a summer routine is simpler than it may seem. You don’t need to plan every minute, and you can … Read more

Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe for Entertaining

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This is the only spinach artichoke dip recipe you’ll ever need. With just five ingredients and about 25 minutes from start to finish, it’s the perfect, crowd-pleasing appetizer for game days, parties, and holidays. This dip is pure cheesy, creamy comfort. It’s simple, reliable, and endlessly adaptable. Why this spinach artichoke dip works so well: … Read more

Smoky Habanero BBQ Grilled Chicken Wings Recipe

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If you haven’t heard (or smelled), it’s BBQ season. These Smoky Habanero Barbecue Grilled Chicken Wings are crispy, brushed with a sweet-smoky paprika barbecue sauce, and carry a serious kick from two small habanero peppers. Have plenty of napkins ready. Jump to Recipe This year we stepped up our game and bought a barbecue—Costco helped … Read more

Crockpot Pulled Pork Recipe: Tender Slow-Cooker Pulled Pork Guide

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In the very first episode of Easier Meals we demonstrate how to make Easy Crock Pot Pulled Pork using straightforward techniques and pantry-friendly ingredients. Anne guides you step-by-step through preparing the pork on a bed of vegetables, and offers clear options for adapting the recipe depending on the size of the roast and the cut … Read more

Pumpkin Spice Biscuits with Whipped Cinnamon Brown Sugar Butter

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These pumpkin spice biscuits have become my autumn favorite. They’re perfect for a cozy brunch or an afternoon tea and pair wonderfully with the whipped spiced sweet butter included here. Serve them with honey or clotted cream, or turn them into a dessert by topping warm biscuits with vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream. … Read more

Crispy Baked Zucchini Parmesan Sticks

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These oven-baked zucchini sticks with Parmesan are just as satisfying as the fried version—often better. They use less oil and leave behind no greasy mess. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, my family can’t get enough of them. I got hooked on baked zucchini sticks this summer. Growing up, my parents served zucchini sticks at … Read more

4-Year-Old Herb & Flower Garden Tour with DIY Drip Watering System

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See how we grew our farmhouse herb and flower garden over four years into a peaceful, low-maintenance sanctuary that largely keeps deer away. Below I share before-and-after photos, our simple DIY watering system, and the maintenance routine that keeps this garden thriving. Some links in this article are affiliate links and if you click on … Read more

Authentic Beef Shawarma Recipe: Tender Spiced Meat & Garlic Sauce

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Beef Shawarma is ideal for pita sandwiches, hummus bowls, rice plates or enjoyed on its own. Flank steak soaks in a fragrant shawarma spice blend, is quickly grilled, then sliced thin for tender, juicy bites. Serve it with tahini sauce, fresh vegetables and pickles in a warm pita.

Beef Shawarma in pita wrap

Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern preparation where seasoned meat is traditionally roasted on a vertical spit. Today’s version uses grilled flank steak marinated in olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice and warm spices. The marinade infuses the beef with bright, savory and slightly tangy flavors that pair beautifully with tahini, tomatoes, romaine and pickles. While flank steak works especially well because it slices thin, you can also use flat iron or strip steak if preferred.

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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken with Garlic and Herbs

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Chicken with Sun Dried Tomatoes in a creamy sauce features perfectly pan-seared, golden-brown chicken breasts coated in a rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce with artichoke hearts. This one-skillet dinner is simple to prepare and ready in under 30 minutes. Boneless chicken breast recipes don’t have to be bland. Try this savory sun-dried tomato chicken for … Read more