Top Reader Favorites of 2014: Relive the Best Recipes of the Year!

As the curtains closed on 2014, it felt like time had truly flown by. It was a year marked by significant milestones and exciting challenges. For me, 2014 was transformative: I took the leap to dedicate myself full-time to this blog, began the joyous journey of planning a wedding, and embarked on some wonderful travels. It was a period of immense growth, both personally and professionally, and a year that laid the groundwork for even greater things to come.

Looking ahead to 2015, the agenda was packed with even more thrilling, albeit slightly nerve-wracking, adventures! I was anticipating becoming an aunt for the first time in February, celebrating our wedding in April, and then jetting off to Africa for an unforgettable safari honeymoon in May. The year would also see Connor graduate from medical school, officially becoming a doctor, and likely conclude with a move to a new city by the end of June. Just thinking about it all was exhilarating and a little exhausting, but the excitement for this next chapter in our lives was palpable.

Amidst all these personal developments, I was incredibly thrilled to continue cultivating and growing this online space. While my passion for creating and sharing delicious recipes with all of you remains at the core of what I do, it’s the vibrant community we’ve built together that I cherish even more. This platform wouldn’t be what it is without your unwavering support, encouraging words, and enthusiastic engagement. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for being such an integral part of this journey!

As a heartfelt tribute to the amazing year that was, and to celebrate the dishes that truly resonated with you, our cherished readers, here are your favorite recipes from 2014!

The Most Popular Recipes from 2014: A Culinary Countdown

1. Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms with Crispy Goat Cheese

Taking the top spot as the number one reader favorite of 2014, these Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms with Crispy Goat Cheese were also one of my personal highlights. This dish perfectly blends earthy portobello mushrooms with creamy, tangy goat cheese, elevated by a delightful crispy crust. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly gourmet experience, making it an ideal choice for a sophisticated vegetarian main course or a memorable side dish. Reader Barbara raved, “Thank you so much for sharing this recipe! I made it today and it is absolutely delicious!!! The flavors, textures – incredible! I could go meatless with recipes like this…” Her feedback perfectly captures the essence of this dish’s universal appeal, proving that meatless meals can be incredibly satisfying and flavorful.

2. Crepes with Whipped Meyer Lemon Ricotta

A delightful spin on classic lemon ricotta pancakes, these delicate crepes filled with light and airy whipped Meyer lemon ricotta quickly became a breakfast and brunch sensation. The elegant thin crepes provide a perfect canvas for the bright, subtly sweet, and floral notes of Meyer lemons, which were perfectly in season when this recipe was shared. They offer a sophisticated yet surprisingly simple way to elevate your morning meal. Topped with a dusting of powdered sugar or fresh berries, these crepes are truly the next best thing and an absolute must-try for any lemon lover looking for a fresh, vibrant start to their day.

3. Rise & Shine Smoothie

Inspired by a memorable trip to New York City, the Rise & Shine Smoothie might just be my all-time favorite smoothie recipe. This isn’t just any smoothie; it remarkably tastes like a comforting slice of banana bread (I promise you!), while simultaneously being packed with an impressive array of healthy ingredients. Wholesome components like fiber-rich hemp seeds, naturally sweet dates, creamy almond butter, and hydrating coconut water come together to create a nourishing and incredibly satisfying breakfast or snack. It’s the perfect way to kickstart your day with a delicious boost of energy and nutrients, making it a recurring favorite among those seeking healthy and flavorful options.

4. Roasted Squash and Brussels Sprouts with Dried Cranberries and Dijon Vinaigrette

Despite being shared only a month before the year’s end, this exquisite side dish swiftly climbed the ranks to become one of the readers’ top five recipes of 2014. It’s no secret that my love for Brussels sprouts knows no bounds, and this recipe truly showcases their versatility. The dish features tender roasted squash and caramelized Brussels sprouts, complemented by the tart sweetness of dried cranberries and a zesty Dijon vinaigrette. It’s an explosion of flavors and textures, making it a perfect addition to any fall or winter meal, especially during the holidays. The popularity of this dish reaffirmed that the #BrusselsSproutsWeek spirit lives on forever and ever!

5. Spicy Peanut Ginger Drumsticks

These Spicy Peanut Ginger Drumsticks offer a vibrant and flavorful journey for your taste buds, quickly becoming a crowd-pleaser and a staple for many families. The drumsticks are marinated to perfection, infusing them with a complex blend of spicy, savory peanut, and aromatic ginger notes, resulting in incredibly tender and succulent chicken. Reader Ivy’s testimonial perfectly encapsulates its appeal: “I made this tonight. I added a little garlic in the marinade. I could not find garlic flavored bean sauce. I used a spicy bean sauce. I also used both drumsticks and chicken breasts. It was FANTASTIC. My family loved it. Thank-you for sharing. I’ve made numerous recipes from Pinterest. This one was the best chicken recipe I’ve tried.” This feedback highlights the dish’s adaptability and its undeniable deliciousness, making it a must-try for any chicken enthusiast.

6. Strawberry-Banana Mango Lava Flow

One sip of this Strawberry-Banana Mango Lava Flow smoothie instantly transports you to a sunny beach paradise! Inspired by my favorite summer beach drink, this non-alcoholic version captures all the tropical vibes and refreshing flavors. It’s crafted with creamy Greek yogurt, ripe bananas, luscious mango, and a vibrant swirl of fresh strawberry puree, creating a visually stunning and incredibly delicious treat. This smoothie is not just a drink; it’s a mini-vacation in a glass, perfect for a hot day or whenever you crave a taste of the tropics. Its vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it a perennial favorite for good reason.

7. Connor’s Ultimate BLT

This Connor-approved sandwich is a testament to the timeless appeal of a well-made BLT, but with an ultimate twist that truly elevates it. While a classic BLT (bacon, lettuce, tomato) is delicious on its own, adding a perfectly fried egg transforms it into something truly spectacular. The runny yolk adds a rich, creamy element that beautifully complements the crisp bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes, making each bite an experience in texture and flavor. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a decadent brunch. Once you try a BLT topped with a fried egg, you’ll never go back – I’m fairly positive this simple addition needs no further explanation!

8. Fresh Mint Ginger Lemonade

For those hot days or whenever a refreshing pick-me-up is needed, this Fresh Mint Ginger Lemonade offers an incredibly invigorating twist on a classic. It features a homemade fresh ginger simple syrup, which imparts a wonderful warmth and subtle spice, perfectly balanced by fragrant torn mint leaves and an abundance of freshly squeezed lemon juice. This combination creates a truly unique and revitalizing beverage that stands out from typical lemonades. Reader Mell enthusiastically shared, “Thanks so much for sharing! This lemonade is INCREDIBLE! Our guests agree that it is the best they’ve ever had. Thanks again!” This glowing endorsement highlights its universal appeal and makes it a perfect drink for entertaining or simply enjoying a moment of cool tranquility.

9. Classic Mexican Tortilla Soup

This Classic Mexican Tortilla Soup holds a special place in my heart, often claiming the title of one of my all-time favorite soup recipes and, in my humble opinion, the best Mexican tortilla soup out there! Its rich, savory broth, tender chicken, and vibrant toppings make it incredibly comforting and endlessly satisfying. I quite literally make it all the time – in fact, I’ve probably prepared this soup at least ten times in the past year alone, even twice in one week at one point! It’s perfect for a cozy night in, and its simple yet profound flavors will have you coming back for more. Please, please do yourself a favor and make this soup – you won’t regret it!

10. Thai Coconut Chicken Noodle Soup

Another standout favorite from the past year, this Thai Coconut Chicken Noodle Soup brings the exotic and comforting flavors of Thai cuisine right into your kitchen. While some of the ingredients might be a little tricky to find (a trip to an Asian grocery store might be in order!), the effort is absolutely worth it. The creamy coconut broth, infused with aromatic spices like ginger and lemongrass, creates a wonderfully fragrant and flavorful base that perfectly complements the tender chicken and noodles. What’s more, this impressive soup comes together surprisingly quickly, making it an excellent option for a delicious and comforting weeknight meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare.

11. Grapefruit Curd Stuffed Doughnuts

These Grapefruit Curd Stuffed Doughnuts were one of the very first recipes shared in 2014, and I’m absolutely thrilled that they managed to make it onto this list of reader favorites! This recipe perfectly combines the irresistible sweetness of homemade doughnuts with the bright, tangy zest of grapefruit curd, offering a delightful and unexpected flavor pairing. It’s a truly special treat that showcases a unique twist on a classic dessert, proving that sometimes the best flavors come from bold combinations. With its success, a new grapefruit recipe is definitely on my agenda for the coming year, promising more citrusy delights!

12. Dark Chocolate Chunk Raspberry Muffins

Remember that time I convinced you it was perfectly acceptable, even encouraged, to make and devour decadent dark chocolate muffins, generously studded with luscious chocolate chunks and tart, juicy raspberries, all for breakfast? Well, these Dark Chocolate Chunk Raspberry Muffins were the delightful result, and they quickly captivated your hearts (and taste buds). This recipe is a perfect balance of rich, slightly bitter dark chocolate and the bright, fresh burst of raspberries, all encased in a tender, moist muffin. It’s an indulgent yet wonderfully fruity way to start your day or enjoy as a treat any time. Perhaps I should make a habit of convincing you to enjoy such deliciousness more often!

Looking Forward: An Exciting New Year Ahead!

As we bid farewell to the incredible year that was 2014 and eagerly step into 2015, I extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you. Thank you for consistently taking the time to visit this site, for leaving your thoughtful feedback and inspiring comments, and for making this entire journey not just possible, but truly rewarding. Your engagement is the fuel that keeps this culinary adventure going, and I cherish the community we’ve built together.

I hope everyone has a safe, joyful, and delicious New Year’s celebration! May the coming year bring you immense happiness, new culinary discoveries, and plenty of opportunities to gather around the table with loved ones. Here’s to an exciting year ahead, filled with more delightful recipes, shared moments, and continued growth. I can’t wait to see what new culinary creations and life adventures 2015 brings to our plates and our lives!