Recipes

Dinner Virginia Vismer Dinner Virginia Vismer

Weeknight Chicken Korma

If you’ve been craving something cozy but not overly spicy, Chicken Korma hits the spot. The sauce is velvety and warm with spices like cardamom, cumin, and cinnamon — and the chicken stays juicy from simmering low and slow in that creamy base. It’s a great intro dish if you're new to Indian cooking but still want something with depth and comfort built in.

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Dinner, Sides Virginia Vismer Dinner, Sides Virginia Vismer

Creamy Homestyle Palak Paneer

Palak Paneer is one of those dishes that just works — rich, flavorful, and surprisingly simple once you get into the rhythm. This version keeps things straightforward with no shortcuts on flavor. The spinach is fresh, the paneer gets a quick pan-fry for texture, and the spices hit that balance of warming without being over the top.

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Baked Goods, Desserts Virginia Vismer Baked Goods, Desserts Virginia Vismer

Strawberry Shortcake Cookie Bars

These strawberry shortcake cookie bars are my go-to for outdoor hangs and lazy park afternoons. They hold their shape, aren’t too sticky, and taste like the best part of summer. A buttery vanilla cookie base, a jammy strawberry layer, and a soft golden crumble on top — they’re nostalgic, sweet, and totally picnic-perfect.

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Appetizers Virginia Vismer Appetizers Virginia Vismer

Hot Honey Hummus

This hot honey hummus is my personal take on a store-bought obsession — only better. It’s smooth and rich like traditional hummus, but the swirl of hot honey gives it a sweet heat that’s downright addictive. Whether you’re scooping it with pita chips or getting wild (banana chips? yes please), this one’s gonna be on repeat.

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Sides, Appetizers Virginia Vismer Sides, Appetizers Virginia Vismer

Patatas Bravas

I just got back from a trip to Barcelona, and if there’s one thing that’s stayed on my mind (besides the sun and cava), it’s the Patatas Bravas I tried during a food tour. Golden, crisp potatoes served hot and crackly, with smoky tomato sauce and sometimes creamy aioli.

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Dinner, Main Virginia Vismer Dinner, Main Virginia Vismer

Oxtail Risotto Inspired by Bokeria in Split

I remember walking into Bokeria in Split—warm lights, chatter, and the promise of something new. I’d never tried oxtail before, but one bite of their risotto, with tender braised tail and creamy rice, sealed the deal: I was a fan—for life. Now I bring that moment back home with this cozy, indulgent recipe.

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Sides, Salads, Pasta and Noodles Virginia Vismer Sides, Salads, Pasta and Noodles Virginia Vismer

Rainbow Macaroni Salad

If summer had a signature side, it just might be macaroni salad. This version hits all the comfort food notes: tender elbow pasta, creamy dressing, crisp bites of celery and bell pepper, and a pop of brightness from a little pickle brine and Dijon. It’s rich, tangy, and satisfying without feeling heavy—exactly what you want next to grilled burgers or ribs.

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Dinner, Lunch Virginia Vismer Dinner, Lunch Virginia Vismer

All-American Backyard Burger

Nothing screams summer (or comfort food, honestly) like a thick, juicy All-American Burger stacked with melty cheese, crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, tangy pickles, and a slather of ketchup and mustard. Whether you're grilling in the backyard or cooking on a stovetop skillet, this recipe brings the diner vibes right to your kitchen.

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Dinner, Lunch, Main Virginia Vismer Dinner, Lunch, Main Virginia Vismer

Baja-Style Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw

There’s just something about shrimp tacos that instantly feels like summer. These Baja-Style Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw take me right back to those perfect nights sitting on patios with friends — laughing too loud, staying out too late, and always ordering "just one more" round of tacos.

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Desserts, Snacks Virginia Vismer Desserts, Snacks Virginia Vismer

Churro Bites with Chocolate Dipping Sauce

If you’re looking for a Cinco de Mayo dessert that’s easy to share and guaranteed to disappear in minutes, you have to try these Churro Bites with Chocolate Dipping Sauce! They’re light, crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy inside, and rolled in sweet cinnamon sugar.

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Dinner, Lunch Virginia Vismer Dinner, Lunch Virginia Vismer

Lemon Herb Baked Flounder

There’s nothing like a breezy beach house dinner, and this Lemon Herb Baked Flounder brings all those fresh, laid-back vibes straight to the table. It's light, flaky, and seasoned just enough to let the sweet, delicate flavor of the fish shine. Perfect for a cozy meal after a long day at the shore.

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Dinner, Lunch Virginia Vismer Dinner, Lunch Virginia Vismer

Panko-Crusted Fried Flounder with Lemon

Nothing says a seaside summer like a plate of golden, crispy fried flounder. This Panko-Crusted Fried Flounder brings all that boardwalk magic home — light, crunchy, and perfectly seasoned with a bright squeeze of lemon to tie it all together.

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