Parsley is one of the world’s most popular herbs, commonly found in European, Brazilian, Middle Eastern, and American kitchens. Its bright, herbal flavor and fresh color make it a versatile garnish and ingredient. You’ve likely seen curly parsley used as a garnish in restaurants, while flat-leaf parsley is often chosen for cooking because of its … Read more

Holiday traditions evolve, but some rituals remain beloved year after year. One such tradition is the classic Cookie Swap (also called a Cookie Exchange). It’s a joyful, time-saving way to share treats, connect with others, and build a variety of cookies without baking dozens of different recipes yourself. The concept is straightforward: each guest brings … Read more

I love potluck parties — hosting them, attending them, and especially deciding what to bring. Large gatherings are easier when everyone pitches in, and a communal meal makes any event more relaxed and fun. If you’re a guest, asking “What can I bring?” is always appreciated. Below are plenty of potluck ideas: some classic, some … Read more

I’m a devoted arugula lover, and fortunately my family is too — even the kids, from a young age. This peppery green brightens salads, layers beautifully in sandwiches, and can be chopped as a garnish. Arugula is delicious raw or briefly cooked: try it wilted into sauces, tossed into stir-fries, or stirred in at the … Read more

A question often asked of cooks, food writers, and anyone who spends a lot of time in the kitchen is: what is your favorite ingredient? My usual reply is two-fold: olive oil and salt. But beyond those fundamentals, there are a handful of everyday pantry staples that make cooking easier, meals more flavorful, and weeknights … Read more

If you’ve ever stood in the produce aisle wondering how to eat a kumquat, you’re not alone. These small citrus fruits are typically eaten whole—the sweet peel balanced by a tart center. With thin, flavorful skin and a compact, zesty interior, kumquats are versatile in both sweet and savory dishes. This guide explains how to … Read more

If you’re hosting a sizable holiday gathering or any large party—graduation, engagement, summer soiree—a buffet is one of the smartest ways to serve. A table piled with attractive food already looks great, but with a little planning and attention to styling you can turn the buffet into a centerpiece of your décor and atmosphere. What’s … Read more

If your pantry is anything like mine, it’s stocked with an assortment of canned tomatoes: crushed (in juice or puree), whole, diced, and petite diced. Canned tomatoes are a versatile pantry staple — essential for pasta sauces but also the backbone of countless soups, stews, chilis, braises, and more. Canned varieties include reduced-sodium and no-salt … Read more

Baby pearl onions are endlessly charming. From classic Thanksgiving sides like Creamed Pearl Onions to a tray of roasted vegetables, pearl onions add a small, elegant touch to many dishes. The only downside is that peeling them can be tedious. Frozen, peeled pearl onions are convenient, but when you want fresh ones without spending ages … Read more

Vidalia onions are among the sweetest and most beloved members of the onion family. They’re a specific type of sweet onion grown around Vidalia, Georgia; while other sweet varieties exist—like Maui from Hawaii and Walla Walla from Washington—Vidalias are prized for their particularly mild, sweet flavor. If the sharp bite of common onions is too … Read more