I’ve always loved macramé. I remember my mom decorating with it when I was a kid in the 1980s (a throwback to the 1970s, no doubt), and even then it felt fresh and fun compared with how other people’s homes looked. Recently I spotted a few macramé plant hangers and, inspired by their simple, handmade … Read more

I’ve been meaning to share this for a while, and now it’s time. As many of you know, my husband and I recently moved into our first home. We have been working on this project since 2013, and it took five years to go from concept to finished house. When we started, we assumed it … Read more

I made these espresso chocolate caramel tarts for a friend who said they “like anything.” That used to stress me out, but now I take it as license to make whatever I’m craving. Mini tarts have been on my to-do list for a while, and this was the perfect excuse. Since my friend was cooking … Read more

Pork shoulder, often called pork butt or Boston butt, comes from the upper part of a hog’s front shoulder. It’s an affordable, flavorful cut that soaks up seasonings and works in many styles of cooking—from classic barbecue to global-inspired dishes. Because a whole shoulder can be large and time-consuming to cook, consider asking your butcher … Read more

Italian Dressing Mix is incredibly easy to make at home and far more flavorful than store-bought packets. It uses simple pantry ingredients and keeps well so you always have it on hand. How Much of This Mix is Equivalent to a Store-Bought Italian Dressing Mix Packet? Use two tablespoons plus two teaspoons of this Italian … Read more

Friends, I have a delightful fall harvest roundup to share. I invited my friend Ali Stafford of Alexandra’s Kitchen to contribute some of her best seasonal, farmer’s market–inspired recipes for this month’s Farmers’ Market Challenge menu. Over the years I’ve met many talented food writers through events like the Saveur Blog Awards and Friends in … Read more

Make Mango Overnight Oats with rolled oats, chia seeds, cinnamon, and milk for a tasty breakfast that takes only five minutes to assemble. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight for the best texture. This is an easy, kid-friendly breakfast that you can prep ahead for busy mornings. Mango brings a bright, sweet flavor and silky … Read more

This chicken Milanese is crispy on the outside and juicy inside—the ideal quick dinner for a busy weeknight. Serve with arugula or cherry tomato pasta for a complete meal. This Italian-American classic tastes restaurant-quality but is surprisingly simple to make at home. A great chicken Milanese is thin, well-seasoned, and very crunchy. If you enjoy … Read more

by Reader Contributors How do you plan a budget when your monthly income changes? Below are practical, reader-tested strategies for managing a variable income so you can cover essentials, build savings, and survive lean months without panic. Tricks for Budgeting Your Variable Income When income fluctuates, the key is preparation and prioritization. The approaches below … Read more

Few things beat warm bread straight from the oven, and this small-batch focaccia is a perfect example. It yields a fluffy, olive oil–kissed loaf that serves 2–4 people—ideal for small families, date nights, or a simple dinner for two. Serve it alongside soups, salads, or pasta, or slice it for sandwiches. The topping is simple: … Read more