The changing of the season can feel invigorating, and I’m particualy excited to pull out my favorite sweaters and jeans. And of course the soups (all the soups!).

I’m also looking forward to getting back into a routine after summer travel, and the recipes here will be heavy in our rotation.

Here’s this week’s Friday 5 👇

1. Eating: Turkey Bacon Breakfast Sandwiches

Why pay $12 for a breakfast sandwich when you can make these for around $3 each?!

The full recipe is here, and also in your Butler app.

2. Also Eating: White Chicken Chili Soup

This lighter, brothier version of white chicken chili is perfect for the transition to fall. We had it for dinner last night and it’s always a hit!

The full recipe is here, and also in your Butler app.

3. Bringing Back: A Great Beef Chili

American football is back, which we all forgot about during the World Cup (lol). But really it’s always fun to put on a big pot of chili and watch a game on a Sunday. I’m particularly excited about this one.

The recipe is here, and also in your Butler app.

4. Loving: Midi Health Gummies & Bundles

I’ve talked about Midi Health before—it’s a female-founded women’s healthcare company with telehealth and a new supplement line. If you’re a woman 35-55, this may be of particular interest to you. If you’re taking creatine and fiber, there’s a great price on this bundle right now.

From Midi: Blood sugar and muscle work together to keep your metabolism running smoothly. During perimenopause and menopause, declining estrogen can make blood sugar harder to regulate while muscle mass naturally declines. Because muscle helps your body use glucose, changes in muscle can make healthy blood sugar harder to maintain—contributing to cravings, afternoon crashes, and weight changes.

Most metabolism supplements focus on just one piece of the puzzle. The Metabolic Balance Bundle combines three key supplements to support healthy blood sugar, muscle, and metabolism—all in one simple daily routine.

• See: Midi Health Metabolic Bundle

• See: Fiber Gummies (I have these every day!)

5. Watching: Alias

Or rewatching, I should say. I put on episode 1 of Alias (the spy drama that put Jennifer Garner on the map) and it’s been super fun to revisit.

I have fond memories of watching it with my dad when I was in high school and plan to binge the whole series. It’s been long enough since I’ve watched it that every episode is (somewhat) a surprise. I highly recommend revisiting an old series you used to love. The nostalgia alone is worth it. :)

Happy Labor Day Weekend,

Elizabeth

I have an affiliate relationship with Midi Health, so I may earn a commission if you use my link at no additional cost to you.

Want to sponsor this newsletter? Have a great tip or something you think I should share? Just hit reply. For everything else, you can find me here.

I just posted a new recipe I’ve been working on that’s perfect when you want some comfort food but also don’t want a gut-bomb (which is pretty much what I always want, ya know?)…

Here’s this week’s Friday 5 👇

1. Eating: High-Protein Hamburger Helper

This high-protein Homemade Hamburger Helper is creamy, cheesy (yet light), comforting, and made entirely in one pot. (*Cue Ina Garten’s voice, “What’s not to love?!”)

It has all the nostalgic appeal of the boxed version, but it’s made with simple ingredients like lean ground beef, tomato sauce, sharp cheddar, and cottage cheese blended into the sauce for a high-protein, relatively low-calorie meal.

Each serving has 26-30g of protein and about 395 calories, depending on the brands and ingredients you use. I’m not strict about macros or calories, but I do aim to get 25-30g of protein in each meal, and I know people want an idea, so there you have it. 😉

There’s some nuance to making a dish like this (no cream, light on the cheese but still creamy) so watch the video for more detail:

The full recipe is here, and also in your Butler app.

2. Eating: Tuna Melt Toasts for Lunch

I posted this one over on Insta—it’s the perfect work-from-home lunch IMO.

If you haven’t yet, join us over on the new Instagram page - I have so much good stuff planned.

3. Bringing Back: Gallo Pinto

We had some leftover rice and so I cooked it up with some black beans and fresh salsa for a quick Gallo Pinto (Costa Rican rice & beans)—it’s always a winner! And cheap and easy. Highly recommend it.

Gallo Pinto Recipe »

4. Loving: The Quince Fall Edit

If you missed it last week, be sure to check out my Fall Quince Edit — I’m loving these pieces right now. The quality and prices can’t be beat.

5. Prepping: Chicken Stock for Soup Season

‘Tis the season! It’s time to make a big stash of homemade chicken stock for the freezer. I roasted a chicken a few nights ago and it’s time to use up all of the celery, carrots and onions. A big batch of homemade stock always makes soup season better.

More next week…

Cheers!

Elizabeth

Want to sponsor this newsletter? Have a great tip or something you think I should share? Just hit reply. For everything else, you can find me here.

If you’ve been here a while, you know I love sharing things that are beautiful and timeless. Quince has become one of my go-to places for elevated essentials because the quality consistently impresses me: high-quality materials, thoughtful details, and well-cut silhouettes without designer markups.

I shared my full Quince review and year-round favorites here, but below are eight of the best Quince pieces for fall that I actually own and recommend. They’re easy to wear now, layer as the weather cools down, and carry straight through the holiday season.

1. Organic Cotton Relaxed Oxford Shirt (aka The PERFECT White Shirt)

The absolute perfect white shirt. I am SO glad I bought this. It has that relaxed, borrowed-from-the-boys look while still feeling crisp and pulled together. I ordered a medium for an oversized fit, and it’s exactly what I wanted.

Wear it open over the ribbed tank, half-tucked into jeans, or buttoned with the silk pants. It can even make a great swim cover-up on vacation.

Shop: Organic Cotton Relaxed Oxford Shirt

2. Quince Cotton Cashmere Ribbed Tank

This tank is so flattering and such an amazing price. It has the polish of a knit top but is still easy enough to wear every day, which makes it the perfect transition piece as we move into cooler weather.

Wear it on its own now, then layer it under a cardigan, blazer, or jacket later. It would also look incredibly chic tucked into wide-leg trousers or paired with the silk pants below for a tonal look.

Shop: Cotton Cashmere Ribbed Tank

3. Mongolian Cashmere Tee

You truly can’t beat the price of this cashmere tee. It’s one of those simple pieces that instantly elevates an outfit, and it works beautifully year-round—not just during sweater season.

Wear it alone with jeans or trousers, then layer it under a blazer or cardigan when the weather cools down. I have it in multiple colors because it’s that useful. It feels polished without trying too hard and makes an excellent foundation for a fall wardrobe.

Shop: Mongolian Cashmere Tee

4. 100% Organic Cotton Boyfriend Crew Sweater

The perfect does-it-all sweater and layering piece. The quality and fit are fantastic, and the relaxed shape makes it easy to wear on its own or layered over any shirt.

Wear it with jeans for everyday, over trousers for something more polished, or draped over your shoulders when you only need a light layer. It is comfortable and classic.

Shop: 100% Organic Cotton Boyfriend Crew Sweater

5. Quince Rugby Striped Sweater

An absolutely perfect fall sweater. The classic stripe gives a simple outfit just enough interest, and it’s the kind of piece you can wear with jeans, trousers, or draped over your shoulders on a warmer afternoon.

Color tip: Knowing your contrast level in color theory can help you choose the version that will look best on you. I’m “low contrast”, so the softer beige and light gray combination is more flattering on me. If you have medium or high contrast, the black-and-white stripe (or another higher-contrast colorway) would be gorgeous.

Shop: 100% Organic Cotton Striped Crew Sweater

6. 100% Washable Silk Drawstring Wide Leg Pants

Silk pants are having a moment! And I love them. They feel like pajama pants but look polished enough to wear almost anywhere. Dress them up or down, and pair them with a monochromatic top for an easy, chic look.

The Wine Tasting Red color with a sweater in the same tone would be perfect all fall and winter—especially for dinners, parties, and the upcoming holidays. I also love the black or navy paired with any black top. It creates an effortless outfit that packs beautifully for travel and can go from daytime to dinner with a quick change of shoes or jewelry.

Shop: 100% Washable Silk Drawstring Wide Leg Pants

7. Bella Stretch Wide-Leg Jeans

Designer-quality jeans for $50! I have two pairs, which should tell you how much I like them. They have that elevated denim look but are still comfortable and easy enough to wear every day.

The variety of colors and inseam lengths makes these one of my top Quince recommendations. A great pair of wide-leg jeans works with everything.

Shop: Bella Stretch Wide-Leg Jeans

8. Hudson Suede Tote

Gah! This bag is stunning. I don’t own it yet but I’m 99% sure this is the bag I’ll get for fall. The rich texture instantly makes an outfit feel more seasonal, and the roomy shape works as an all-around bag for errands, work, travel, and everyday life.

It has that relaxed, understated-luxury look that makes even a simple sweater-and-jeans outfit feel finished. If you want one bag that can carry everything without looking overly utilitarian, this is probably it.

Shop: Hudson Suede Tote

Also Eyeing: Vivienne Work Tote

I’m also eyeing the Vivienne Work Tote. It’s more structured than the suede shopper and has a dedicated laptop sleeve plus multiple compartments, making it a beautiful option if you need a true work bag that still feels elevated.

I haven’t tried this one yet, but the polished shape and thoughtful organization have it firmly on my list.

Shop: Vivienne Work Tote

Quince does elevated basics so well, and these pieces make it easy to get dressed without overthinking it. They feel current for fall but are classic enough to keep wearing year after year, which is always what I’m looking for.

Tip: Quince items tend to sell out quickly. If something you love is in stock, don’t wait! And if it is sold out, join the waitlist; sometimes things don’t come back, but I’ve been able to get a few things using their waitlist feature.

Cheers!

Elizabeth

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase—at no additional cost to you. As always, I only share pieces I genuinely love or am personally considering.

Want to sponsor this newsletter? Have a great tip or something you think I should share? Just hit reply. For everything else, you can find me here.

Since I’m here, I’ll share that I took that 12-hour lamb out of the oven, and other than needing salt, it’s wonderful! I’ll see how everyone likes it tonight, then share soon.

Here’s this week’s Friday 5 (again) 👇

1. Introducing: The Butler Instagram

We’ve been hard at work behind the scenes updating Butler, my recipe and meal planning app, to make it your go-to source for cooking at home. We have a new website and Instagram, and I’d be so grateful if you'd follow along. My goal is 200 friends on Insta by next week so we can access new features, so if you’re into home cooking, I’d love to see you there :)

Join us on Insta here »

2. Eating: Quinoa Tabbouleh

Traditionally, tabbouleh (also spelled tabouli) is made with bulgur wheat. In this recipe, I swap in quinoa for a naturally gluten-free twist. Quinoa adds a subtle nuttiness, extra protein, and a fluffy texture that blends beautifully with the herbs.

The result is a salad that’s light, fresh, and perfect as a side dish, dinner party contribution, or make-ahead lunch. It keeps wonderfully in the fridge.

Get the recipe »

3. Making: Weekday Lunches

Here are lots of lunch ideas whether you work from home or don’t work at all. 31 Lunch Ideas to be exact…

4. Prepping: Kid’s Lunches that Adults Also Love

These are the types of lunches everyone loves, especially the English muffin pizzas…

Find school lunch ideas here »

5. Watching: The Sheep Detectives

You guys, this movie was great. We actually watched it without our girls (they’re teens now and have places to be!), and M and I both loved it. It has a high rating on Rotten Tomatoes so we put it on, and we were both delighted we watched it. I highly recommend it.

More soon…

Elizabeth

Want to sponsor this newsletter? Have a great tip or something you think I should share? Just hit reply. For everything else, you can find me here.

But a few of you mentioned you have kids going back to school already—and for some reason, back-to-school feels like back-to-work/back-to-reality for us adults, too—so this week I have a bunch of lunch ideas that all ages will love.

I also have a 12-hour lamb recipe to put in the oven overnight for dinner with the in-laws, in which I’m ignoring the best advice of “never cook a new recipe for a crowd.” I’ve never made lamb, so pray for me. If it turns out I hope to be sharing it with you soon.

Here’s this week’s Friday 5 👇

1. Introducing: The Butler Instagram

We’ve been hard at work behind the scenes updating Butler to make it your go-to source for cooking at home. We have a brand new website and Instagram, and I’d be so grateful to have you follow along. My goal is 200 friends on Insta by next week so we can access new features, so if you’re into home cooking, I’d love to see you there :)

Join us on Insta here »

2. Eating: Quinoa Tabbouleh

Traditionally, tabbouleh (also spelled tabouli) is made with bulgur wheat. In this recipe, I swap in quinoa for a naturally gluten-free twist. Quinoa adds a subtle nuttiness, extra protein, and a fluffy texture that blends beautifully with the herbs.

The result is a salad that’s light, fresh, and perfect as a side dish, dinner party contribution, or make-ahead lunch. It keeps wonderfully in the fridge.

Get the recipe »

3. Making: Weekday Lunches

Here are lots of lunch ideas whether you work from home or don’t work at all. 31 Lunch Ideas to be exact…

4. Prepping: Kid’s Lunches that Adults Also Love

These are the types of lunches everyone loves, especially the English muffin pizzas…

Find school lunch ideas here »

5. Watching: The Sheep Detectives

You guys, this movie was great. We actually watched it without our girls (they’re teens now and have places to be!), and M and I both loved it. It has a high rating on Rotten Tomatoes so we put it on, and we were both delighted we watched it. I highly recommend it.

More soon…

Elizabeth

Want to sponsor this newsletter? Have a great tip or something you think I should share? Just hit reply. For everything else, you can find me here.

Please allow me to jump on my soapbox for a moment. Food-wise, I refuse (refuse, I say!) to start thinking about anything pumpkin-spiced or fall-related right now.

Do I like fall? Sure. But I yearn for summer all winter and spring, and I WILL NOT be jumping on any bandwagon involving sweaters, soups, or fall coziness just yet. (Which, BTW, is mostly marketing agencies getting an early start.)

Summer is still here. Let’s enjoy it!

One thing getting older has given me is a much deeper desire to stay present and actually enjoy the season I’m in instead of always looking ahead to the next thing.

Of course there’s a balance between being here now and planning ahead. We need both, and everyone has to find that balance for themselves.

But for the next few weeks I’m firmly on Team Summer. I hope you’ll join me in soaking up what’s left before the back-to-school/back-to-work/back-to-reality season hits.

Here’s this week’s (very summery!) Friday 5 👇

1. Making: Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic & Lemon

Nothing says summer to me more than a big bowl of angel hair pasta and a glass of rosé on the patio. It’s super easy to make (the entire dish only takes 10-15 minutes) and uses mostly pantry staples I always have on hand. When I want something quick and comforting but still kind of light, this is it!

Get the recipe »

2. Drinking: Tinto de Verano

Tinto de Verano is Spain’s drink of summer. It’s lower in alcohol than a regular glass of wine and is nice if you want a lighter happy hour.

This is the recipe my host-mom made when I studied abroad in Spain. It is equal parts red wine and lemon soda poured over a lot of ice, with citrus slices floating on top. Most versions you find online are quietly sangria in disguise, which is also delicious, but not tinto de verano.

Get the recipe »

3. Obsessing Over: The Best Sneakers I’ve Ever Worn

Ok, not to be dramatic, but I think these On Cloud shoes are the best sneakers I’ve ever invested in. I’ve worn them all over the world (London, Dubai, New Delhi, Tokyo, Paris, Seattle—literally hundreds of thousands of steps) and they’re still in good shape.

They go with everything, and they’re SO comfortable (not a single blister). I bought the white-on-white last year and love them so much that I’m going to get either this pair with the maroon- or green-accent option (gah, I love them both). They are on the higher-end and worth it.

4. Curious About: You.

5. Using Up: ALL the Mint

Every year I encourage people to grow mint because it quite literally grows like a weed. It’s also full of plant nutrients and tastes amazing. If you have an abundance of mint, too, check out my round-up of 15+ Easy Ways to Use Fresh Mint Leaves

Ok, more next week…

Cheers!

Elizabeth

Want to sponsor this newsletter? Have a great tip or something you think I should share? Just hit reply. For everything else, you can find me here.

I’m back from my July vacation—we had a wonderful time in the English countryside and France.

While I love to travel, it’s always nice to be back in my own kitchen. Here’s what I’m making this week 👇

1. Making: Roasted Zucchini

I used to think I hated zucchini, and it turns out, I was right and raw zucchini sucks. But roasted zucchini? Delicious!

The key is to get it roasted until it’s nice and golden brown. It’s a completely different flavor than raw zucchini.

I haven’t had a chance to put this one on the blog, but since zucchini is so abundant (and cheap!) right now I thought you’d want to make it this weekend. Here are the steps bulleted out:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Cut zucchini into ½-inch thick pieces.

• Toss with olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

• Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet.

• Roast for 25–35 minutes, until golden brown and caramelized. Get it nice and brown around the edges.

• Remove from the oven and sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

• Return to the oven for 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly golden. (Parm gets bitter when over browned, so 4-5 minutes here is good.)

• Serve immediately. Keeps great in the fridge for 2-3 days. Enjoy!

2. Testing: Greek Chicken Meatballs

I’ve made this one for M a few times and he loves it. Chicken meatballs can be dry or fall apart, but I think I’ve finally cracked the code. Let me know if you want it, too.

3. Planning: Ground Turkey Tacos

Being back from vacation has reminded me more than ever that I need simple go-to recipes my family loves. I’m pulling out my easy turkey tacos this week because it’s another crowd favorite that I can whip up in less than 25 minutes.

Get the recipe »

4. Loving: This Red Light Mask

The CurrentBody Red Light mask to heal my skin from all of the summer sun exposure. I wear sunscreen and hats, but I’m not going to hide—I want to enjoy being outside! That said, my skin really gets red this time of year. This mask helps A LOT.

Just like everything else, the quality of your red light mask matters. This version has been the best I’ve ever used. See it here » And I love the neck version, too.

5: Reading

The One She Left Behind by Sloane Waverley. A friend recommended this one to me as a good summer vacation read—it’s spicy and I love it! Such a good book to take on any trip this summer or enjoy on your patio with a glass of rosé. It’s also available for free with Kindle Unlimited if you use that, too.

Happy last day of July (can you believe it’s already August?!).

Cheers!

Elizabeth

Want to sponsor this newsletter? Have a great tip or something you think I should share? Just hit reply. For everything else, you can find me here.

I’m in full planning mode for our trip to Montana for the 4th. Every year, our extended family gathers at a lake house that my grandfather bought way back in 1947, and it’s as close to home as I can ever possibly feel.

We divvy up meal nights and go potluck style on the 4th. It’s a weekend full of food, lake swimming, tons of fun, and lots of fireworks (and lots of kids [safely] doing lots of fireworks and sneaking extra treats).

If you’re looking for ideas for your Fourth of July gatherings, here are my top recipe suggestions to make your weekend easy and delicious. Sending this a week early so you have time to plan too :)

I always make the potato salad, and this year I thought it would be fun to try a new recipe I found online (I’ll let you know how it turns out!). As a recipe developer, I of course love to play around in the kitchen, and I also like to take a go at other recipe developers’ fan favorites. I’ll also be making my Classic Macaroni Salad, which is as nostalgic & American as it gets. And of course, my Easy Berry Flag Cake.

Wishing you and yours a fun, relaxing, delicious, and safe holiday weekend.

Cheers!

Elizabeth

P.S. Here are 13 potluck ideas if you need more inspiration:

Want to sponsor this newsletter? Have a great tip or something you think I should share? Just hit reply. For everything else, you can find me here.

Summer means strawberries and cucumbers, and I have a few suggestions for using them. We’ve been enjoying the World Cup (we went on Monday!), and I found another new favorite pair of pants that I can’t stop wearing.

Here’s this week’s Friday 5 👇

1. Making: The Easiest Strawberry Shortcake

I made a video of this one and wrote it up on the blog, too. Strawberry Shortcake is the quintessential summer dessert, and it’s incredibly easy to make.

And trust me, if you want the absolute best strawberry shortcake, please, always make your whipped cream! There’s no contest. It’s always okay to take some help from the store and use a boxed cake mix or canned biscuits. Boxed cake mix has been around for decades and is hard to beat, but good whipped cream cannot be manufactured, sit on a shelf, and come out anywhere near as good as the real stuff.

Get the recipe »

2. Eating: Cucumber Salad

Nothing says summer like a cucumber salad, and there are so many ways to make one. I’ve been loving this viral TikTok version, and also love a classic Cucumber Avocado Salad or Mom’s Cucumber Salad, too.

With the abundance of cucumbers this season (at great prices!), you really can’t go wrong.

See: 9 Awesome Cucumber Salad Recipes »

3. Wearing: The Perfect Pants

Ok I found another perfect pant. A few weeks ago I declared this summer to be flowy-pants season. For casual or dressier occasions, a good linen pant with literally any top is the move. I’ve been talking about the Quince wide-leg linen pants for 2 years and LOVE them.

And, I found another more casual pair in a different material that I’ve been living in. The Viori Villa pants are perfect for around the house or at the lake, and I’d even wear them with a nice top out to dinner. They’re super light so work in the heat, too. They might be the most versatile pants I own. Highly recommend.

They’re almost sold out so grab ‘em if you want ‘em. They’re also a bit on the pricy side but worth it for the fit and quality. Cheap clothes only last a season (if even)—these will last for years.

They run mostly true to size but a tiny bit on the forgiving side. I’m often between a S and M and the smalls fit perfect.

See: Viori Wide Leg Villa Pants

4. Going to: The World Cup

We had a once-in-a-lifetime chance to take our teens to the World Cup in Seattle, and it did not disappoint!

With the new AI era, live events and in-person experiences will be what connect us the most. Whether it’s sports, theater, concerts, dinner parties, paint & sips, or gatherings, make live events a priority to support your mental health.

5: Loving: Peonies from My Garden

One of the best parts about living in the Pacific Northwest is the ability to grow just about anything. These ones are from my front yard! The peonies are about done, but the dahlias, roses (and raspberries and tomatoes) are just getting started.

And, if you missed it last week, be sure to check out 25 No-Cook Meals for When It’s Too Hot to Cook.

Cheers,

Elizabeth

Want to sponsor this newsletter? Have a great tip or something you think I should share? Just hit reply. For everything else, you can find me here.

With record-breaking heat this week, I’m bringing out no-cook meals all weekend long. I’m also sharing my favorite fiber gummies + the end to my drip coffee maker saga.

Here’s this week’s Friday 5 👇

1. Making: No-Cook Meals

With record heat hitting most of the country this week, I pulled together the no-cook meals I actually make, plus the simple formula I use to throw one together with whatever's in the fridge.

For me, a no-cook meal is an assembly-style meal. No stove, no oven, no grill. I'll allow a toaster for a great sandwich, or perhaps some meal prep at the beginning of the week for some hard-boiled eggs. You decide what works for you.

Read: 25 No-Cook Meals for When It’s Too Hot to Cook

2. Taking (for Free!): Fiber Gummies

If you haven’t heard of Midi Health, you need to know about them. This female-founded company was just valued at over $1B (a unicorn!), bringing telehealth to women for perimenopause and menopause care.

They also just launched a new supplement line and sent me their no-sugar fiber gummies, and they’re awesome. I love what this company is doing. This weekend, you can get a free package of fiber gummies with a supplement package.

I spoke more about this in my Insta stories here »

3. Enjoying: Our New Coffee Maker

Last week, I wrote about loathing the acidic coffee from my 10-year-old drip coffee maker. Many of you wrote in with suggestions and notes, so thank you for that! I read all of them.

And, many of you recommended the Moccamaster, which we looked at and I really wanted, but I knew after some time the fact that you can’t set it the night before would drive me nuts. So we went with the Breville Luxe Brewer (in Almond Nougat from Crate & Barrel) and so far we love it! And the color is GORGEOUS. Definitely a smooth cup of coffee. There’s a learning curve with all of the settings, but I’ve just been using the default brew for now, and my coffee is tasting much less acidic. Thank you again to everyone who wrote in!

See: The Breville Luxe Brewer

4. Watching: The World Cup

My husband is a lifelong soccer fan, and both of our girls play soccer. I’ve really grown to fond of watching the sport. It will be fun to watch the world’s biggest sporting event over the next few weeks. Go USA!

5: Loving: Maple in a Turtleneck

And finally, a quick Maple update. Our girl had to have a thing removed on her neck (all benign), and I discovered this alternative to a cone if your pet needs one, too. This will prevent licking and scratching on the places it covers, so it can replace the cone in some situations. Plus, she looks so cute in a pink turtleneck! Very Legally Blonde of her. ;)

Enjoy the weekend!

Cheers,

Elizabeth

Want to sponsor this newsletter? Have a great tip or something you think I should share? Just hit reply. For everything else, you can find me here.

Strawberries finally taste like strawberries again (and they’re reasonably priced!), which means summer is here.

This month’s Essentials is all about summer desserts, and honestly, I think summer dess…

Read more

If you make one new recipe this week or month, make sure it’s the Umami Beef with Broccoli recipe I just posted (yes, it’s that good).

I’m leaning into everything fresh, bright, and quick right now (essentially anything with big fresh flavor that doesn’t heat up the whole house).

And I’m on a mission this weekend to fix the acid coffee coming out of my old coffeemaker—I’ve been putting it off for too long (more on that below).

Here’s this week’s Friday 5 👇

1. Sharing: Umami Beef with Broccoli (New!)

I just posted this one, and you have to make it.

After going to Japan twice this year, I became a little obsessed with re-creating umami beef in my kitchen. Most beef with broccoli recipes are drowning in soy sauce and taste a little one-note. Not this one! The easy umami sauce is perfectly balanced, and you don’t even need cornstarch to thicken it. Everyone in my family loves it.

It's everything I want in a weeknight dinner: deeply savory, a tiny bit sweet, and SO much better than takeout.

Get the recipe »

2. Eating: Baked Lemon Salmon

I’m pulling out this oldie but goodie. Baked lemon garlic salmon is bright, rich, and perfectly flaky, and it comes together with six simple ingredients in under 20 minutes.

To make it, you brush salmon fillets with olive oil, season with fresh garlic, salt, and pepper, lay thin lemon slices over the top, and bake at 375°F for 15 to 18 minutes. Enjoy it as a main or keep leftovers to add to salads or bowls cold the next day. It’s always a winner.

Get the recipe »

3. Craving: Watermelon Salad

Watermelon season is officially here, and this is the first thing I make every year when it shows up at the market. Sweet watermelon, salty feta, fresh mint—it's basically summer in a bowl!

Get the recipe here.

4. On the Hunt: A Great Drip Coffee Maker

My old drip maker has worn out its welcome (the coffee comes out too acidic and I'm over it).

I love my Aeropress, but single servings aren't enough when M and I both want to drink a few cups on a weekend. So I'm hunting for a great drip maker this weekend. If you have one you swear by, hit reply and let me know. I'll report back on what we land on.

5. Reading: Our Perfect Storm

I just downloaded this one, and I’m excited to dig in. A few friends recommended it when I reached out desperate for a book after finishing Yesteryear. It’s a different genre, but 3 different people have recommended it as a great summer read.

Early June is the season in the Pacific Northwest when it cools down slightly after a hot streak in May and just before real summer. It’s still nice out but not hot yet, so I’ll be curled up in front of the fire on the patio with this book all weekend long.

See you next Friday!

Elizabeth

Want to sponsor this newsletter? Have a great tip or something you think I should share? Just hit reply. For everything else, you can find me here.

There’s so much to share so I’ll get right into it. I finally wrote up the tips & tricks for making an awesome Nicoise salad at home, which is the perfect meal for those of us on the “high-protein, high-fiber - but still want delicious food” train™. lol

Also, you guys… I finished “Yesteryear,” and you absolutely need to read it before the spoilers start making the rounds.

And finally, Memorial Day weekend is here (the unofficial start of summer in the U.S.) which means it’s officially time to bring out all the summer recipes (finally!). It’s also a weekend to honor and remember those who served our country and made the ultimate sacrifice.

Here’s this week’s Friday 5 👇

1. Making: Nicoise Tuna Salad

Nicoise Salad is a classic French composed salad built around good tuna (or sometimes anchovies), boiled eggs, crisp green beans, and a punchy Dijon vinaigrette that soaks into the potatoes and other fresh veggies you have on hand.

It works just as well for a high-protein, high-fiber lunch or a weeknight dinner as it does for entertaining. I make it on repeat all summer long!

A great Nicoise salad is really about two things: quality ingredients and how you cook them. Get those right, and the rest is just assembly.

Get the recipe »

2. Bringing Out: Summer Recipes

Summer is all about easy, colorful, flavorful food that keeps well on the counter and in the fridge for gatherings and meal prep.

Think pasta salads, potato salads (I love this mayo-free one), anything with watermelon, and fresh salads (Greek salad, specifically) all season long.

Find a big list of summer recipes here »

3. Wearing: THE Pants of Summer

I hereby declare summer to be flowy-pants season! A good linen pant with literally any top is the move here.

I love my black and navy Quince wide-leg linen pants so much that I ordered them in the driftwood and blue stripe colorways. I’ve tried other brands and always come back to these for their durability. My pants from 2 seasons ago still look new.

They have a variety of lengths to choose from and wash so well (hang dry, use your hands to quickly smooth them out while they’re still wet, and you’re set!). They looked good in a slightly cropped length and full-length, too. I prefer the full-length, so I ordered the longer inseam and can’t stop wearing them.

See the best linen pants here »

4. Can’t Stop Thinking About: “Yesteryear” by Caro Claire Burke

I finished “Yesteryear,” and I highly recommend it.

This one’s about a tradwife influencer who curates a picture-perfect pioneer life on Instagram, then suddenly wakes up in the 1800’s. The main character is so unlikeable that you actually start to feel bad for her. I couldn’t tell if I loved this book or hated this book until about halfway through; then I was gripped (gripped, I say!).

It’s all over the media now, and spoilers will come out (there’s a big twist), so I’d say read it asap if you’re into culture & fiction.

Grab it here >>

5. Watching: Loot with Maya Rudolph

I’m a little late to this show, but I’m so glad I found it! It’s an easy watch with a great main character for when you want a good light-hearted show to wind down with.

I can’t do the murder documentaries or heavy stuff before bed. This is a good one for something light and easy and entertaining. Maya Rudolph plays a billionaire who decides to do good in the world. It’s genuinely a fun watch.

As we head into Memorial Day weekend (aka the unofficial start of summer here in the US) I also want to take a moment to remember what the holiday is truly about: honoring the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. As the daughter of an Air Force veteran it’s a reminder I hold especially close.

Wishing you a restful long weekend filled with good food, sunshine, and time with the people you love.

And to all who have served and sacrificed, thank you.

Happy Friday,

Elizabeth

Want to sponsor this newsletter? Have a great tip or something you think I should share? Just hit reply. For everything else, you can find me here.

One of the easiest ways to make summer food taste restaurant-quality at home is to learn a few really great sauces.

A good homemade sauce can turn grilled chicken into a wow-level dinner, make vegetab…

Read more

We’re heading into Mother’s Day weekend and I could not be more ready for a relaxing one. This week I’ve been knee-deep in Butler updates (version 2 coming soon!), testing new recipes for the blog, and reading a lot to wind down at night. The Pacific Northwest is finally giving us some real spring weather and we’re soaking it up.

Here’s this week’s Friday 5 👇

1. Making: Easy Coleslaw Dressing

We’re heading into summer slaw season and I want to shout from the rooftop: “Skip the store-bought coleslaw dressing!” It’s loaded with preservatives and surprisingly easy to make.

Homemade coleslaw dressing:

• 1/2 cup Veganaise (OR your favorite mayo)

• 1.5 tablespoons honey (OR white sugar)

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

• a few spins freshly ground black pepper (about 1/8 teaspoon)

Toss it with shredded cabbage, broccoli slaw, or greens. It’s cheaper and healthier to make yourself. Pair it with BBQ Chicken Sandwiches for a comforting meal at home.

Read the full post here »

2. Writing Up: Fava Bean Crostini

I mentioned this one last week and you guys had questions, so here is the full post and recipe.

Fresh fava beans are in season right now and this crostini is one of my favorite spring appetizers. It’s simple, elegant, and fancy-looking but relatively easy to make. Grab your fava beans at the farmers’ market while they’re still around.

• Get the recipe here »

• Watch me make this one on YouTube here »

3. Reading: Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke

Just downloaded this and I cannot wait to get into it this weekend.

It’s a debut novel about a tradwife influencer who curates a picture-perfect pioneer life on Instagram (with nannies and a production company behind the scenes obviously) and then suddenly wakes up in 1805 where she has to actually live it. Everything I’ve heard says it’s darkly funny and I’m excited to dive in.

4. Trying: CaleCIM Advanced Hair System

This one is for anyone dealing with thinning hair or shedding.

A close friend tried this after using a red light therapy helmet the year before (which costs significantly more) with minimal regrowth. She started Calecim and was genuinely shocked at how much new growth came in. It’s not cheap, but the science behind it is fascinating. Their proprietary PTT-6® technology “harnesses the body’s natural regeneration mechanisms, using over 3,000 proteins including growth factors, cytokines, and exosomes that signal cells to regenerate.” If this is something you’ve been struggling with, it’s worth reading about.

Shop Calecim here »

5. Celebrating: Mother’s Day Weekend

This weekend is all about a relaxing pace and a delightful brunch. No big plans, no agenda, just good food and time with the people we love.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there!

Cheers,

Elizabeth

Want to sponsor this newsletter? Have a great tip or something you think I should share? Just hit reply. For everything else, you can find me here.

I’ve been testing warm-weather recipes, searching high and low for the best gifts of the season, and putting the finishing touches on a really exciting update to Butler that I’m excited to tell you about.

Here’s this week’s Friday 5 👇

1. Making: Tuna Pasta Salad with Peas & Dill

Warm weather calls for pasta salad, and this one is creamy, nostalgic, fresh, and packed with protein. I use a mix of Greek yogurt and mayo, plus a squeeze of lemon and fresh dill, which makes the whole thing taste bright and light.

Pro tip: if you’re on the protein bandwagon, add an extra can of tuna and use a high-protein pasta and you’ll get over 50g of protein per serving.

Get the Tuna Pasta Salad recipe

2. Loving: Fava Beans

Fava Bean Crostini is one of my favorite things to make in the spring. The fava bean season is short, and they take some work because you have to double shell them—but trust me, it’s so worth it.

I’m writing this one up so stay tuned…

… but the short of it is: Shell fava beans from the big pod, blanch for 5 minutes in boiling salted water, cool in cold water or an ice bath, remove the second outer pod (annoying but must be done, pinch them out), then puree with lemon zest and juice, salt, EVOO, and fresh mint. Top a crostini with fresh ricotta (optional), then the fava bean mixture and a mint leaf. SO good.

3. Curating: A Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Mother’s Day is right around the corner, and I put together a little collection of my top picks for the moms in your life. Whether she’s into cozy self-care, something for the kitchen, or a treat she wouldn’t buy herself, there’s something in here for everyone.

Shop the collection here

4. Still Reading: Famesick by Lena Dunham

I’m almost done and wow, what a great book.

I’ve been on a memoir kick lately (Strangers by Belle Burden, All the Way to the River by Elizabeth Gilbert, Awake by Jen Hatmaker) and I’m loving hearing real stories from women of all ages.

If you’re looking for something honest and raw, any of these would be a great pick.

5. Excited For: The Release of Butler v2 Next Week!

If you’ve been thinking about trying Butler, next week is the perfect time. I’m so excited to share the new version with you. We’ve rebuilt the Meal Planner, added an organized Home Tab so you can see your day and week at a glance, and added a few new awesome features to make cooking at home even easier.

I built Butler so you can have all of your recipes (URLs, cookbooks, Instagram saves, screenshots, etc.), meal plans, and grocery lists in one easy-to-access place. Here’s a little preview of the new Home Tab.

May is also my birthday month, so look for an upcoming birthday + v2 launch celebration in the coming weeks. If you want to get a head start, you can grab it now on the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android).

Cheers!

Elizabeth

Want to sponsor this newsletter? Have a great tip or something you think I should share? Just hit reply. For everything else, you can find me here.

I’ve been cooking a lot of easy, fresh meals this week and pulling out all my favorite transitional pieces. It’s my favorite time of year!

Here’s this week’s Friday 5 👇

1. Making: Thai Peanut Noodles

If you’ve ever ordered peanut noodles for takeout, this version gives you the same comfort and flavor, made with better ingredients and a lot more control over what goes into it.

The sauce comes together in a blender (or with a whisk) with pantry staples (peanut butter, soy sauce, lime, garlic, ginger, sesame oil), and the whole thing takes about 20 minutes. I love it for weeknights, meal prep, or anytime you want something fast and satisfying. If you want the salad version, my Thai Peanut Superfood Slaw is also fantastic.

• Get the noodle recipe here

• Get the slaw recipe here

And on the menu tonight, steak with my Favorite Chimichurri Sauce (make it once and you’ll be hooked for life!)

2. Loving: This Gorgeous Collared Sweater

This lightweight Quince polo sweater looks way more expensive than it is. Definitely a designer-level quality. I wore it in NYC and again in Nashville a few weeks ago, and have worn it twice since. It’s perfect to throw over your shoulders on those in-between spring days when you don’t quite need a jacket but want a layer.

👉 Shop the polo sweater here

3. Wearing: The Cashmere T & Silk Skirt as a Set

I also love this green cashmere tee from Quince. It looks equally good with jeans, shorts, linen pants, or a silk skirt, which is basically my entire warm-weather rotation. For under 50 bucks, the quality is unreal.

I wore it with the green silk skirt on Easter, and it was the perfect elevated-but-comfy brunch outfit (forgot to take a pic!) — I always find that a monochrome outfit looks chic for any occasion.

👉 Shop the cashmere tee here

👉 Shop the washable silk skirt here

4. Bringing Back: A Timeless Summer Dress

I got this light blue sleeveless dress last year and I can’t wait to wear it again this season. I’m always on the hunt for a timeless, easy summer dress and this is it. I found it ran a tiny bit big, so I got the small instead of medium (I’m usually between a small and med for reference). It also comes in linen and a bunch of colors in both fabrics.

👉 Shop the cotton version here

👉 Shop all colors and fabrics here

5. Reading: Famesick by Lena Dunham

I just started Lena Dunham’s new memoir and I’m already hooked. Lena got an HBO series contract at 23 years old (!!) for Girls, and this book is an honest and raw look at fame at a young age.

It covers her rise, her struggles with chronic illness, complicated relationships, and what happens when ambition and pain start running the show at the same time. It’s raw, funny, and surprisingly self-aware. Whether or not you were a Girls fan (I was!), it’s one of those books that makes you think about the cost of chasing what you want. I’m not done yet but I already know I’ll be recommending this one for a while.

• Check it out here.

I’ll be on the patio all week long, and I hope you are as well!

Cheers,

Elizabeth

Want to sponsor this newsletter? Have a great tip or something you think I should share? Just hit reply. For everything else, you can find me here.

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I'll be writing up where to eat and everything we loved and adding it to the travel section soon.

It's been a great week back home, spending time in the garden and cooking with what's in season. I also found the BEST new candle and finished a book I couldn't put down.

Here’s this week’s Friday 5 👇

1. Making: Veggie Chili Soup

I first had a version of this soup at the Nordstrom Café in Denver way back in 2013. I loved it so much that I asked the waiter if the chef had any tips, and to my surprise he came back with a printed copy of the recipe from the head chef. I’ve adapted it over the years to work with what’s in my kitchen and what’s in season, and now it’s one of my go-to soups when I want something healthy, flavorful, and super easy to throw together.

👉 Recipe: Spring Veggie Chili Soup

2. Loving: Element Brooklyn Candles

Okay I need to tell you about these candles.

Element Brooklyn is an eco-friendly candle shop that makes “dupes” of high-end candles, and they’re honestly better (BETTER I say!) than the originals and cost WAY less.

Their Dusk in Eden candle smells exactly like the iconic Jo Malone Pomegranate Noir (which is 2.5x the price), plus Element makes refills for $20. These are the luxury-quality expensive candles at the TJ Maxx price. I’ve already ordered more.

If you get the Dusk in Eden, just grab a few refills while you’re at it because you’ll want them. I’ve been sent a lot of candles over the years, and these are super fragrant but not overpowering (they gently fill the room), eco-friendly, beautifully packaged/look classy, and don’t smoke like crazy. Would make a great gift too.

• Get: Dusk in Eden Candle

• Browse: Element Brooklyn Candle Collection

Here’s the scent comparison chart:

3. Shopping: The Only 2 Things Worth Getting from the Sephora Sale

The Sephora sale is on right now, and here are the two things I’d actually grab:

First, K18 hair repair. This is the one product that will genuinely help you grow healthier, stronger hair. It’s a bond builder that doesn’t just smooth your hair on the surface, it actually repairs it. K18 is expensive and this is the only time you can get it on sale. You only need one pump (read how to use it on their website). It’s a true miracle product.

Second, the Tower 28 Beauty Swipe All-Over Hydrating Serum Concealer. It’s already an amazing price plus the sale discount, and they have a ton of shades. I used to loathe concealer because it just cakes, but this one doesn’t crease and actually goes on beautifully. I’m a huge fan.

• See: K18 Hair Treatment

• See: Tower 28 Serum Concealer

• Use code SPRINGSALE for a discount on the entire Sephora website

4. Planting: Spring Garden Update

The spring garden is in. I’ve got my lettuces and greens planted plus some herbs, carrots, and zinnia flowers in the back. I also put two types of peas at the bottom of my arch trellis, so fingers crossed the peas grow up this thing and it looks like a fairytale in a few months.

5. Reading: All the Way to the River by Elizabeth Gilbert

Holy cow, this book.

What an honest account of the inside of a beautiful yet completely codependent relationship. I meant to read it for a while but kept getting busy, and then a friend reminded me of it a few weeks ago. There’s something special and refreshing about reading a woman’s completely honest take while reflecting on the past, not just making excuses but true self-reflection. The story gets pretty wild (how can such a successful woman find herself in this mess!) but the honesty is the best part of the book. Highly recommend.

Cheers to a beautiful weekend!

Elizabeth

Want to sponsor this newsletter? Have a great tip or something you think I should share? Just hit reply. For everything else, you can find me here.

I don’t know about you, but seeing the calendar turn to April makes me giddy because I finally get to plant my garden, and going to the plant store is one of my favorite pastimes. I’ll be seeding zinnia flowers, arugula, greens, and more, and planting new starts of herbs and veggies this year.

This week, I have fun new recipes, NYC recommendations, and some of my favorite things that I think you’ll like, too.

Here’s this week’s Friday 5 👇

1. Eating: Miso Ginger Beef Chuck Roast

This is a really fun (and easy!) twist on a pot roast. The miso and ginger give a slow-braised chuck roast so much depth—it's savory, umami-rich, and changes things up in the kitchen. If you're still in cozy dinner mode before we're fully into spring salad season, put this on your weekend list.

👉 Get the recipe here.

Also new on the blog: Semi-Homemade Enchiladas and a delicious Tzatziki Chickpea Salad

2. Loving: Save Recipes Straight from Instagram in Butler

This one's been a long time coming, and I'm so excited it's finally live. You can now save recipes directly from Instagram in Butler!

If you've ever tapped through to a Reel, thought "I want to make that," and then promptly lost it forever, then this is for you.

Butler pulls the recipe details and saves it to your collection so you can actually find it again when it’s time to cook. And the more you save, the smarter it gets. Butler learns your tastes over time, so your recommendations and meal plans actually fit your real life.

Download Butler on the App Store or Google Play and try it out with a 7-day free trial if you haven’t already.

3. Trying: Midi Health Creatine & Fiber Gummies

I've been paying more attention to creatine lately (more on that in an upcoming Essentials issue) and when Midi Health reached out, I was curious to try them.

Their creatine gummies and fiber gummies are an easy way to be consistent with supplementation (no powder to measure, no mixing), and they’re delicious! I've been testing them for a few weeks, and I wrote up my full honest review with a discount code if you want to check them out.

👉 Read the review here.

4. Sharing: Where to Eat in NYC

Let’s talk about where to eat in NYC!

Let me start off by saying that it’s genuinely impossible to write a comprehensive NYC food guide. There are thousands of incredible restaurants, and every New Yorker has strong opinions about which ones are the best!

So instead of trying to cover everything, these are the places we actually went on this trip, what we actually ate, and what I’d recommend if you’re planning a visit.

But first, do I have the street cred to talk about NYC food? Why yes, yes I do. I’ve spent a lot of time in NYC over the years, even did an extended stay for 10 weeks right before the pandemic, so even though I live on the West Coast, I know my way around the city pretty well. It’s one of the best food cities in the world, and what I love about it is that there’s always something new. New places pop up constantly, old favorites evolve, and every neighborhood has its own thing going on.

A quick note on portions, too. When we do a “food crawl” as we did in NYC, we share everything and walk 20,000-25,000 steps every day, which is honestly the only way to do it. You eat, you walk, you eat again… keep reading…

5. Thinking About: The Best Six “Doctors”

April always reminds me of my favorite quotes:

"The best six doctors anywhere, and no one can deny it, are sunshine, water, rest, and air, exercise, and diet."

To be honest, I'm not sure if anyone knows for certain who first said it, but it appeared in a book called What the River Knows by Wayne Fields. I love this quote because while I do believe in paying attention to our habits and a little supplementation can make life better, the fundamentals are really what bring us the most long-term health.

I’ll be in my garden all weekend and enjoying Easter brunch with family. I hope you do the same!

Cheers!

Elizabeth

Want to sponsor this newsletter? Have a great tip or something you think I should share? Just hit reply. For everything else, you can find me here.