Fresh & Healthy Strawberry Caprese Farro Salad: Your Go-To Summer Grain Bowl

This delightful Strawberry Caprese Farro Salad is a perfect harmony of flavors and textures, making it an ideal healthy choice for the warmer months. Imagine hearty farro tossed in a vibrant homemade pesto, studded with sweet, juicy strawberries, ripe tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella pearls. It’s a wholesome summer grain salad that’s as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat.

This post is sponsored by Driscoll’s.

This summer season has been all about embracing simplicity: leisurely visits to the farmer’s market, long, peaceful walks with Marley, and a decidedly minimalist approach to cooking. As many of you may have noticed, my presence here has been (unintentionally) quieter than usual these past few weeks, but for good reason.

My only “excuse,” if you can even call it that, is that I’m fully immersing myself in the vibrant energy of Chicago summer and all the wonderful experiences it offers. I’ve been taking this time to reflect, recharge, and brainstorm fresh, exciting content ideas, ensuring this space remains a fun and inspiring resource for delicious food.

Today’s delightful farro recipe was directly inspired by my latest excursion to our local farmer’s market. We are incredibly fortunate to live just a few blocks away from a bustling neighborhood market, and I confess, I’ve been diligently acquiring most of the fresh basil and exquisite sungold tomatoes from my favorite vendor. There’s nothing quite like the taste of produce picked at its peak, and these ingredients truly sing.

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Culinary School to Line Cook: Honest Reflections on the Reality of Restaurant Life

This post is part of a mini blog series exploring my culinary school journey. Catch up on the full series here, or revisit Part I and Part II for earlier insights into the culinary world!

Where does one even begin when attempting to encapsulate an entire transformative period of life into a single narrative? This particular reflection, delving into my extensive experience working in a professional restaurant kitchen, stands as arguably the most challenging entry in this mini-series. To truly convey the depth, the highs, and the demanding lows of becoming a full-time line cook, after the structured environment of culinary school, feels like an almost insurmountable task. Yet, it’s a story I’ve long yearned to share, offering a transparent look into the reality of restaurant life.

Having meticulously chronicled every step of my culinary school journey, it only feels right, and indeed necessary, to offer an equally candid account of what transpired next: the pivotal transition from student to a working professional in the bustling heart of a restaurant kitchen. After six intensive months of classroom instruction and hands-on training, my classmates and I were thrust into the crucible of a mandatory paid restaurant externship. While our school termed this period an ‘externship’ – signifying our ongoing student status and the requirement to complete a specific number of hours – the restaurant itself treated me, and I certainly felt, like a full-fledged employee. The distinction between student and professional blurred, almost entirely disappearing, as I stepped onto the line as a true line cook.

The Apprehension of the “Real World” Kitchen Environment

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The Ultimate Mother’s Day Brunch: 18 Impressive Recipes to Spoil Mom

From a seasonal Asparagus Egg Puff Pastry Tart to a show-stopping Lemon Coconut Cake, these are the recipes that will truly impress the mother figure in your life and make her day extra special.

There’s a unique warmth and sincerity in a homemade meal that speaks volumes, especially when it’s prepared with love. This Mother’s Day, show your appreciation and affection by starting her day with an unforgettable, handcrafted brunch spread. Imagine her delight as she wakes up to the aroma of freshly baked goods and savory delights, all made just for her.

With spring in full bloom, offering an abundance of fresh, vibrant ingredients, I’ve curated a collection of 18 of my absolute favorite Mother’s Day brunch recipes. This isn’t just about food; it’s about gifting your mom a slow, indulgent morning, a moment of peace and culinary pleasure – truly the greatest gift of all.

This comprehensive guide offers a little something for every palate, ensuring your Mother’s Day celebration is nothing short of perfect. You’ll discover an array of sweet, savory, and undeniably celebratory recipes, each one worthy of this special occasion. While I always strive to share crowd-pleasing dishes that cater to everyone at the table, let’s be honest: the true focus of the day is the incredible mom you’re celebrating!

From light and fluffy pancakes to rich, decadent quiches and show-stopping cakes, these recipes are designed to impress without overwhelming. Many can be prepped in advance, allowing you to enjoy the morning alongside her. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a Mother’s Day brunch that will be cherished and remembered long after the last bite.

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