This week, I was so happy to be back in my own kitchen—ready to cook from scratch, whip up snacks for family and friends, and tackle recipes I’ve never tried before. It was a great week filled with easy crowd-pleasers and a few dishes that pushed me out of my comfort zone. Check out my in-notes from this week’s kitchen adventures below ⬇️

Recipes Made So Far This Year:

Goal: To try seven new recipes each week 🗓️, aiming for 365 this year!

 Number of Recipes Made this Week: 7 ✅ 

Number of New Recipes Tested as of 11/10: 378 🌟

Weeks Achieving Seven or More New Recipes: 43 out of 45

This Week’s Recipe Test Summary

Impress Someone🌟

BLT Salad from Natasha’s Kitchen 🥓🥗

A BLT is my go-to when I eat out for breakfast and want something salty, especially since I’m not a big fan of eggs. I found this recipe online and was excited to try this take on a BLT. I made it with homemade croutons from Gimme Some Oven  🥖 and used my no-mess bacon recipe 🥓 (it’s a lifesaver!). We had friends over, and this quick, unplanned meal was a hit—no leftovers! I loved it, and I think H did even more. We’ve already made it a second time, and he even asked if I could make it for Friendsgiving, haha! 😂 I’m planning to try something else for that, though.

Would Make Again 👍

Avocado & Cottage Cheese Toast from jshealth | Instagram Reel 🥑🍞

One thing I was most excited about when coming home was trying all the recipes my sister sent me while I was away. She sends me trendy, healthy recipes that aren’t usually on my radar, and this was a win! I grabbed a fresh Costco loaf and a big bag of avocados. This toast was so filling, and the hot honey drizzle made it irresistible. 🍯 I’ve already had it for a light dinner three times this week!

BA’s Best Snickerdoodles from bon appétit by Rick Martinez 🍪

When I think of snickerdoodles, I immediately remember Mrs. Fields—oh, how I miss those cookies! They were my favorite growing up. I’ve baked countless snickerdoodle recipes trying to find one that compares, and I think this might be it. It’s not quite Mrs. Fields, but hey, I’ll take it!

Oreo Rice Krispie Treats from Dee & Eats 🍪🍚

After returning home, I had to try this recipe for my first visit to my sister. She loves Rice Krispies and Oreos, and she loved this one! So did Nico. It's an easy-to-please recipe that’s perfect for anyone.

Home to Make Homemade Croutons from Gimme Some Oven 🥖

I love a fresh Costco loaf of Italian bread, but it’s hard to finish it before it goes bad when there are just two of us. My solution? Turn it into croutons! They last an extra week and went perfectly with the BLT salad.

Pressure-Cooker Boneless Beef Short Ribs with Hoisin Sauce from America’s Test Kitchen 🍖

I’ve been trying harder recipes and cooking things I don’t normally make—this time, short ribs in the Instant Pot! This recipe was super easy, and the results looked so impressive—perfect for hosting guests. I'm definitely keeping this one in my back pocket.

Would Not Make Again 👎

These recipes didn’t live up to expectations or weren’t to my taste

Best Oreo Brownie from Baker by Nature🍫

Unfortunately, the brownie didn’t mix well with the Oreos. The brownie texture was a bit too gooey for me.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, or any recipe requests you might have. Just respond directly to this email.

See you next week. Keep cooking! 👋 

Vale from ValeCooks