There’s something timeless about a perfectly baked chocolate chip cookie — crisp golden edges, a soft, chewy center, and just enough melted chocolate in every bite. These double chocolate chip cookies are simple, classic, and impossible to resist straight from the oven. Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in, sharing with friends, or just…
Author: chefmare819
Rosemary Potato Leek Soup
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of creamy rosemary potato leek soup to make a day feel instantly cozier. Rich, velvety, and topped with crispy bacon and fresh green onions, this comforting classic is the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table. Served with thick slices of crusty bread for dipping, it’s…
Dakos Salata (Cretan Salad)
There’s something timeless about a beautifully made Dakos Salata (Cretan salad). Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, briny capers, and barley rusks (in Greek paximadia) all layered beneath a generous slab of creamy feta — simple ingredients, thoughtfully combined. It’s the kind of dish that feels effortless yet intentional, vibrant yet grounded. This version leans into bold…
Happy New Year!
As 2023 comes to a close, I want to wish everyone a happy and a healthy New Year (2024)! Thank you to all my subscribers for following me, recreating my recipes and sharing them. It means so much to me. I hope 2024 is filled with all good things to come! Photo credit: Quotes Square
Merry Christmas!
I just want to take a moment and wish everyone a wonderful Christmas. May this holiday season be filled with good health, joy and love. Enjoy the day with loved ones and friends. As always, a huge thank you to all my subscribers for your continued support. Photo credit: Pinterest
Cranberry Orange & Onion Whipped Ricotta Dip
The holidays call for dishes that feel festive, inviting, and just a little bit dramatic — and this creamy ricotta dip with warm chili oil delivers all three. Set it at the center of your Christmas table, surrounded by torn bread and glasses of wine, and watch it disappear. The contrast of cool, silky ricotta…
Winter Apple Walnut Salad with an Apple Cider Vinaigrette
When the seasons begin to shift and the air turns just slightly crisp, I start reaching for salads that feel both fresh and comforting. This arugula salad with apples, toasted walnuts, and blue cheese is exactly that — bright and peppery, with just enough richness to make it feel special. The crisp sweetness of the…
Happy Thanksgiving
I wanted to take a moment and wish all my subscribers a happy and healthy thanksgiving! Thank you all so much for all the support you have shown me here on my blog. It truly means a lot. I’m very grateful and thankful for all of you. Enjoy the day with your families and friends…
Mare’s Thanksgiving Menu Guide
Happy Monday! I hope everyone had a good weekend. This year for thanksgiving, I wanted to do something a little different. I put together a menu guide with some drinks, appetizers, side dishes and desserts. If you are in need of some ideas/inspiration for turkey day I got you covered. I will also be sharing…
Sautéed String Beans with Shallots, Mushrooms and Bacon
Thanksgiving is all about balance — rich roasts, buttery potatoes, sweet cranberry sauce — and every holiday table needs a vibrant green side to bring it all together. These sautéed green beans with caramelized mushrooms and crispy bacon are exactly that dish. Tender-crisp green beans are tossed with garlic and olive oil, then layered with…