My Top 15 Culinary Adventures: Reliving the Best Recipes of 2015
As the year gracefully drew to a close, a cherished annual tradition here at Gimme Some Oven unfolded once more. Just yesterday, we celebrated YOUR most adored 15 recipes of 2015, a delightful reflection of what truly resonated with our incredible community. Today, the spotlight shifts to my kitchen, as I eagerly share my personal list: the 15 recipes that stole my heart, ignited my palate, and became staple fixtures in my culinary repertoire throughout 2015.
It’s always a challenge to narrow down such a vast collection of delicious creations, but these are the true standouts!
Undoubtedly, many of my favorites happily overlapped with those that topped your charts. However, I must confess, every year brings its own set of “hidden gems”—recipes I pour my heart into, convinced they are absolute game-changers, destined to be talked about endlessly and cooked repeatedly. Yet, sometimes, these very recipes are met with a quiet virtual silence. And that’s perfectly okay! I understand that blogging is a dynamic space, and tastes are wonderfully diverse. What truly warms my heart is the shared joy of cooking and discovering new flavors together.
For those seeking fresh inspiration as we step into a new year, I seize this final opportunity to passionately champion some of my personal culinary discoveries from 2015 that you might have overlooked. This list is a candid, behind-the-scenes glimpse into the recipes that transcended their initial blog post and seamlessly integrated into my daily life. From the smoky depths of mezcal margaritas to the addictive simplicity of shishito peppers, the comforting warmth of Mexi mashed potatoes, and that effortlessly easy appetizer my family and I prepared countless times during the holiday season – these are the recipes I returned to again and again.
My sincere hope is that you find a few new treasures here to brighten your own kitchen in the coming year. Echoing yesterday’s sentiments, I extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for making this past year so wonderfully delicious and inspiring. You, my readers, are truly the best, and I’m bubbling with excitement to kick off 2016 with an array of fresh, healthy, and undoubtedly delicious new recipes. Cheers to a flavorful new chapter!
My 15 Unforgettable Recipes of 2015
1. Mezcal Margaritas
Without a doubt, this recipe was arguably the most significant culinary revelation for me in 2015. It’s no secret that margaritas hold a special place in my heart as my all-time favorite cocktail. My classic margarita recipe has been a steadfast companion for many years, delighting both myself and countless friends and readers. However, everything changed after I savored my first marg crafted with smoky mezcal during a trip to Austin last February. From that moment, I knew the “scotch of tequila” needed a permanent spot on my home bar cart. Don’t misunderstand—I will forever adore my traditional tequila-based margaritas. But throughout 2015, mezcal became my preferred mixer, adding an incredible depth and complexity that’s simply irresistible. The subtle smoky notes elevate the classic drink into something truly extraordinary, making it perfect for a cozy evening or a vibrant gathering. So incredibly good, it transformed my perception of what a margarita could be.
2. Beef Chow Fun
For years, Beef Chow Fun has been my ultimate go-to takeout order from our beloved neighborhood Chinese restaurant. The rich, savory flavors and tender wide noodles always hit the spot. In 2015, I finally tackled the challenge of recreating this iconic dish in my own kitchen, and to my delight, I discovered it’s surprisingly easy to master at home! The result was an incredibly flavorful and authentic version that rivaled my favorite takeout. The key lies in fresh ingredients and a quick stir-fry technique, yielding perfectly tender beef, crisp vegetables, and those irresistible chewy noodles coated in a savory sauce. This recipe not only satisfied my cravings but also empowered me to bring a taste of my favorite restaurant experience right to my dining table, proving that delicious and impressive Asian cuisine is well within reach for the home cook.
3. Easy Sesame Shishito Peppers
Oh my goodness, shishito peppers! The moment Trader Joe’s started stocking bags of these delightful little peppers, they instantly became a permanent fixture in my grocery cart. I’m not exaggerating when I say I buy them almost weekly, and this simple recipe (or some variation of it) is usually made the very moment I walk through the door. Their slightly sweet, slightly smoky flavor, often with a thrilling hint of heat, makes them incredibly addictive. I adore them as a quick and healthy snack, an impressive yet effortless appetizer for guests, or a vibrant side dish to almost any meal. I just can’t get enough of shishito peppers! Be warned, though—I can personally vouch for the statistic that about 1 in 10 shishito peppers packs a surprisingly spicy punch. It’s like a delicious game of culinary roulette! This recipe celebrates their natural flavor with just a touch of sesame, making them utterly irresistible and perfect for any occasion.
4. Homemade Naan
This past year also marked the debut of my sister’s cherished recipe for homemade naan on the blog, and I’ve become an absolute evangelist for it. It’s truly a revelation how simple and rewarding it is to make fresh naan at home. The process itself is part of the fun – watching those beautiful bubbles magically puff up as the dough cooks, creating pockets of airy perfection. The resulting naan is wonderfully soft, chewy, and utterly delicious, far superior to any store-bought version. It’s the perfect accompaniment to curries, stews, or simply enjoyed on its own with a little butter. This recipe transformed my weeknight dinners, adding an authentic touch to homemade Indian and Mediterranean meals. It’s proof that some of the most impressive dishes can also be the easiest to create from scratch.
5. 5-Ingredient Whiskey Dark Chocolate Truffles
These little bundles of pure indulgence quickly became a go-to dessert for me in 2015. I initially whipped up dozens upon dozens of these delightful truffles for a special documentary release party, and their immense popularity meant I’ve been making countless batches ever since. They’re perfect for keeping stashed in the freezer, ready to be pulled out for impromptu gatherings, last-minute hostess gifts, or, let’s be honest, for “parties of one” (no judgment here!). Made with just five simple ingredients, including my favorite local Rieger whiskey, they offer a sophisticated depth of flavor with minimal effort. The rich, dark chocolate perfectly complements the subtle warmth of the whiskey, creating a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth experience that is utterly unforgettable. These truffles are a testament to the fact that extraordinary desserts don’t need a long ingredient list or complicated steps.
6. 5-Ingredient Butternut Squash, Arugula & Goat Cheese Pasta
This pasta dish, born out of a spontaneous culinary whim last fall, quickly ascended to become one of my all-time favorite recipes. It’s a brilliant example of how a few high-quality ingredients can combine to create something truly spectacular. I absolutely adore the harmonious blend of flavors and textures: the sweet, earthy notes of roasted butternut squash, the peppery bite of fresh arugula, the rich crunch of pine nuts, and the incredibly easy yet luxurious “sauce” created by simply melting goat cheese into the hot pasta. With just five ingredients, this recipe is a weeknight lifesaver, delivering gourmet taste with minimal fuss. It’s comforting, vibrant, and utterly satisfying, proving that simplicity often yields the most delicious results. This dish is a true winner for busy evenings when you crave something both wholesome and indulgent.
7. Gnocchi with Brussels Sprouts, Chicken Sausage & Kale Pesto
Speaking of delightful pasta surprises, this gnocchi dish was another unexpected favorite of the year. While you might think you can’t go wrong with these ingredients individually, their combination in this recipe is truly magical. The tender, pillowy gnocchi serves as the perfect canvas for the savory chicken sausage, the slightly bitter and caramelized Brussels sprouts, and the fresh, vibrant homemade kale pesto. Each component brings its unique flavor and texture, creating a remarkably balanced and incredibly satisfying meal. I used my favorite store-bought gnocchi, which made this dish even easier to assemble without sacrificing quality. It’s hearty, flavorful, and a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into a comforting meal. This dish quickly became a go-to for cozy evenings, offering both warmth and sophisticated flavors.
8. Tex-Mex Mashed Potatoes (Papas Con Chile)
2015 was the year I finally cracked the code and developed my own recipe for the beloved “papas con chile” from Abuelo’s, a dish I had long adored. And now, I want to serve these flavorful mashed potatoes with absolutely everything! They are loaded with vibrant Tex-Mex flavors—think a delicious blend of mild chilies, garlic, and spices—making them a fantastic departure from traditional mashed potatoes. They’re surprisingly easy to prepare, transforming a humble side into a star player at any meal. The creamy texture combined with the bold, savory notes makes them incredibly addictive and, as I like to say, muy delicioso. Whether paired with grilled chicken, steak, or even just as a comforting dish on their own, these Tex-Mex mashed potatoes are a revelation that will undoubtedly become a staple in your kitchen, just as they have in mine.
9. Super-Easy Cranberry Baked Brie Bites
These simple yet elegant filo cup bites probably win the award for the recipe I made most frequently in 2015. Between my mom and me, I’m pretty sure we prepared them at least a dozen times during the holiday season alone! Their immense popularity is no mystery: these tasty little brie bites are ridiculously easy to assemble, incredibly cute and festive, and perhaps most importantly, absolutely delicious. The creamy, melted brie pairs perfectly with the tartness of cranberries, all encased in a delicate, crispy filo shell. They vanish in a flash at every single party and gathering. Perfect for entertaining, these bites offer a sophisticated appetizer without any of the stress, making them a true lifesaver for hosts and hostesses looking to impress with minimal effort. They are a testament to the power of simple, well-chosen ingredients.
10. Slow Cooker Potato Soup
This particular recipe holds a special place, as it was probably the most-requested dish I’ve ever had on the site. Readers yearned for a perfect slow cooker potato soup, and after much diligent tinkering and experimenting with various techniques, I’m immensely proud of the final recipe I finally shared in December. It’s a total winner: creamy, hearty, incredibly flavorful, and made effortlessly in the crock pot. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and comforting soup that warms you from the inside out. It’s the ideal meal for chilly evenings, busy weekdays, or when you simply need a bowl of pure comfort. This is one recipe I plan to be making for a very, very long time, and I’m confident it will become a cherished favorite in your home too.
11. Bourbon Chocolate Chip Cookies
Yesterday, I highlighted that my All-Time Favorite Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe earned a well-deserved spot on your list of 2015’s top recipes. However, I absolutely had to include this whiskey-spiked version on my personal favorites list this year. Why? Because… bourbon! The subtle addition of bourbon elevates the classic chocolate chip cookie to an entirely new level of sophistication and flavor. It adds a wonderful depth and warmth, a hint of caramel and vanilla notes that perfectly complement the rich chocolate. These aren’t just cookies; they’re a grown-up treat, a comforting indulgence that’s perfect for sharing (or not!). If you’re a fan of the classic, prepare to be amazed by how a splash of bourbon can transform an already perfect dessert into something truly extraordinary and unforgettable.
12. Biscuits and Mushroom Gravy
I’ve always been quick to admit that I’m not naturally a huge breakfast enthusiast. However, my perspective significantly shifted this year with the creation of this utterly fantastic (and naturally vegan!) biscuits and mushroom gravy. This dish has been a delicious motivation to not only wake up but also to enthusiastically cook in the mornings. The fluffy, tender biscuits provide the perfect vehicle for the rich, savory mushroom gravy, which is packed with umami flavor and a wonderfully creamy texture. It’s comforting, hearty, and surprisingly satisfying, offering a plant-based twist on a classic comfort food that truly delivers. Whether you’re vegan or simply looking for a delicious and hearty breakfast or brunch option, this recipe is a game-changer that proves breakfast can indeed be exciting and incredibly delicious.
13. Mediterranean Farro Salad
This vibrant, simple, and incredibly colorful salad stood out as one of my healthier favorites of the year. It’s absolutely bursting with fresh, bright Mediterranean flavors, making it a refreshing and satisfying meal or side dish. The chewy texture of farro provides a wonderful base, complemented by crisp vegetables, briny olives, tangy feta (or a plant-based alternative), and a zesty dressing. Not only is it quick and easy to whip up, but its robust flavors also develop beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep. I loved bringing this salad along to potlucks and picnics throughout the year, where it was always a huge hit. It’s a testament to healthy eating being incredibly delicious and never boring. This farro salad is a delightful way to enjoy a mosaic of textures and tastes, proving that nutritious can also be utterly tasty.
14. Coconut Oil Chex Mix
Mmmmm, 2015 was also the year that butter officially took a backseat, delightfully replaced by coconut oil in my favorite Chex mix recipe. This simple substitution proved to be nothing short of magical. The coconut oil imparted a subtle, delicate sweetness and a wonderful aroma that elevated the classic savory snack to new heights. It created an even crispier texture and a unique flavor profile that made this batch of Chex mix even more addictive than ever before. Whether made quickly in the microwave or baked to golden perfection in the oven, this version became my absolute go-to for movie nights, road trips, or simply when a craving for a perfectly balanced sweet and savory snack hit. It’s a fantastic example of how a small tweak can lead to a significant, and utterly delicious, upgrade.
15. Rainbow Fish Taco Nachos
And finally… I simply couldn’t compile a favorites list without including some gloriously indulgent nachos! I’m not sure how often nachos grace your table, but not a week goes by in my life that I don’t seek them out at a restaurant or whip up a giant pan at home. In 2015, this easy fish taco nachos recipe became my absolute hands-down favorite for homemade indulgence. I adore the vibrant colors from all the fresh toppings, the irresistible blend of sweet and savory flavors, and—let’s be honest—I just genuinely love nachos! The flaky fish, combined with crunchy tortilla chips and a medley of colorful, zesty toppings, creates a party in every bite. It’s a fun, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying meal that’s perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a solo feast. These nachos are a celebration of flavor, texture, and pure culinary joy.
For even more delicious inspiration, make sure to check out our compilation of YOUR Favorite 15 Recipes of 2015 that I had the pleasure of sharing yesterday. And if you’re feeling particularly nostalgic or simply craving more tried-and-true recipes, delve into our archives from years past. Enjoy a journey through our most beloved dishes!
- My Favorite 14 Recipes of 2014
- Your Favorite 14 Recipes of 2014
- Favorite 13 Recipes of 2013
- My Favorite 12 Recipes of 2012
- Your Favorite 12 Recipes of 2012
And don’t forget to stay tuned, as we’ll be enthusiastically kicking off another year filled with delightful and innovative recipes this Friday. Wishing you all a truly Happy New Year, full of delicious discoveries and culinary adventures!