Bright, sweet, and fiery, this marinade brings together the freshness of lemon juice, the sweetness of honey, and the bold kick of jalapeño and ginger. Soy sauce and garlic add savory depth, while thyme provides a fragrant herbal note. Perfect for pork or poultry, this marinade infuses the meat with layered flavor and a touch...Read More

Blenheim apricots are prized for their rich, honeyed flavor and natural sweetness, making them a perfect choice for homemade jam. This recipe captures their peak-season taste in a luscious spread that’s both bright and fragrant. A touch of lemon balances the sweetness, while a hint of vanilla adds depth. Slather it on buttered toast, swirl...Read More

Thick, rich, and full of flavor, this spicy sweet barbecue sauce delivers the perfect balance of smoky sweetness and fiery spice. Brown sugar and ketchup create a deep, sweet base, while cayenne, paprika, and black pepper bring a kick of heat. A splash of cider vinegar and Worcestershire sauce rounds everything out, making this sauce...Read More

Elegant, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, this strawberry-champagne sorbet is the perfect way to celebrate summer. Sweet ripe strawberries are blended with champagne (or prosecco) and a touch of honey for a light yet indulgent treat. It’s easy to make ahead and ideal for entertaining—serve it in delicate glassware for a sophisticated dessert, or scoop...Read More

It’s officially berry season on the Central Coast, and with it comes one of Northern California’s most beloved summer fruits: olallieberries. This bumpy, deep-purple berry may look rugged, but its sweet-tart flavor has earned it a cult-like following among berry lovers. A member of the blackberry family, the olallieberry is prized for its complex flavor...Read More

Nothing says summer quite like a bowl of homemade blueberry ice cream. Bursting with the naturally sweet and tangy flavor of fresh blueberries, this ice cream is as refreshing as it is indulgent. The creamy base balances the fruit’s brightness, creating a luscious dessert that feels both vibrant and decadent. With just a handful of...Read More

This vibrant couscous salad combines sweet and savory flavors for a refreshing side dish that works beautifully year-round. Tender pearl couscous is tossed with chewy dried apricots, fresh mint, and crunchy pistachios, then finished with a light golden balsamic dressing. The result is a salad that’s slightly sweet, tangy, and nutty—perfect alongside grilled chicken, lamb,...Read More

These Buttery Apricot Crumble Bars are a sunny twist on classic shortbread—perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or an afternoon treat with tea. Dried sweet-tart apricots are slowly simmered into a fragrant filling, then layered between buttery shortbread and finished with a golden crumble topping. The result is a bar that’s rich yet refreshing, with a...Read More

Discover the satisfaction of creating your very own homemade hot sauce — it may even tempt you to ditch store-bought options! The possibilities are nearly endless for various combinations of hot chilies and seasonings to concoct your perfect blend. You can use all of one kind of pepper or chili or use a combination. The...Read More

This make-ahead French toast is a comforting breakfast classic with a practical twist. Perfect for busy mornings, holidays, or brunch gatherings, you can prepare it the night before and simply bake it in the morning. The result is golden, custardy French toast with minimal fuss—just add your favorite toppings and enjoy. INGREDIENTS: 1 loaf day-old...Read More