Happy New Year’s Eve to all our wonderful readers! As the clock ticks down on another incredible year, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the culinary journey we’ve shared. While yesterday we celebrated Your 16 Favorite Recipes of 2016, it’s only fair that we also dive into *my* personal kitchen staples. These aren’t just recipes that gained traction on the blog; these are the dishes that made regular, sometimes weekly, appearances in my home. For a food blogger constantly experimenting with new flavors and ingredients, a recipe has to be truly exceptional to earn a permanent spot in the rotation. It speaks volumes about their deliciousness and reliability.
This collection represents more than just a list; it’s a culinary diary of the tastes that truly resonated with me throughout 2016. From robust main courses to fresh salads and delightful drinks, each recipe brought joy and flavor to my table. So, without further delay, I’m thrilled to unveil my absolute favorite new recipes that graced the blog this past year. My hope is that you discover some new beloved dishes here too, ones that will bring as much enjoyment to your kitchen as they have to mine. Get ready to explore a diverse range of flavors and perhaps find your next go-to meal!
The BEST Beef Jerky
Sharing my all-time favorite beef jerky recipe on the blog in 2016 felt like a full-circle moment. This isn’t just any jerky; it’s a recipe steeped in personal history, tracing back to when I was just 16 and practically begged for a dehydrator for Christmas. That early passion for homemade jerky eventually led to perfecting this savory snack. What truly sets my recipe apart, and what seems to make everyone else go absolutely wild for it, is the complete absence of added sugar. I simply can’t stand sweet beef jerky! This version focuses purely on rich, meaty flavor with a perfect blend of spices, making it an ideal protein-packed snack that’s incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy to prepare at home.
Arugula Salad with Parmesan, Lemon and Olive Oil
This simple arugula salad is a testament to the power of fresh, quality ingredients. It’s one of those recipes that Barclay and I prepare at least once a week, and despite its frequent appearance on our table, it genuinely never loses its appeal. We’ve experimented with various greens, but the distinct peppery kick of baby arugula remains our top choice, perfectly complementing the bright lemon, salty Parmesan, and rich olive oil. For an added layer of texture and flavor, I often toss in some toasted pine nuts, and on occasion, grilled shrimp elevates it into a more substantial meal. This salad proves that sometimes, the simplest combinations are the most satisfying and enduringly delicious.
Garlic Lovers Spaghetti
When an intense pasta craving strikes, my go-to solution is invariably this Garlic Lovers Spaghetti. This dish embodies my ideal comfort food, delivering a deeply satisfying experience every time. It’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight meal when you need something hearty and flavorful without fuss. The generous amount of garlic infused into every strand of spaghetti creates an aromatic and utterly delicious sauce that truly hits the spot. If you, like me, appreciate a robust garlic flavor and the simple joy of a perfectly cooked pasta dish, this recipe is guaranteed to become a cherished favorite in your repertoire.
My All-Time Favorite Gumbo
For years, I dabbled in various gumbo recipes, always seeking that perfect balance of richness, spice, and soulful depth, yet consistently finding them “close, but not quite.” 2016 finally marked the breakthrough year when I perfected what I can confidently call my all-time favorite homemade gumbo. This recipe is an absolute triumph, brimming with tender chicken, savory andouille sausage, and a deeply flavored roux that forms the heart of this classic Louisiana dish. If you share my profound love for gumbo and appreciate an authentic, incredibly flavorful rendition, you simply must give this recipe a try. It’s a labor of love that truly pays off with every spoonful.
Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)
The year 2016 brought another exciting culinary mastery: learning how to prepare authentic Drunken Noodles, or Pad Kee Mao, right in my own kitchen. I can tell you with full confidence that this homemade version stands shoulder-to-shoulder with, if not surpasses, any rendition I’ve enjoyed at a Thai restaurant. It’s astonishingly quick and easy to make, yet explodes with super flavorful and perfectly balanced sweet, savory, and spicy notes. The best part is its versatility; you can effortlessly customize it with your preferred protein, whether that’s succulent chicken, tender beef, fresh seafood, or wholesome tofu. This recipe delivers an exotic and satisfying meal that will transport your taste buds straight to Thailand.
Italian Lentil Soup
This Italian Lentil Soup emerged as one of my delightful surprise favorites of the year. Moving beyond traditional Mediterranean seasonings, this vegetarian soup is simmered with a rich medley of classic Italian flavors, creating a truly comforting and uniquely delicious experience. It’s remarkably easy to prepare, making it a perfect wholesome meal for any day of the week. A fantastic bonus is how incredibly well it freezes, allowing me to often make a large batch and store portions for quick, healthy meals whenever I need them. For those who desire extra protein, the option to add Italian sausage transforms it into an even heartier dish without sacrificing any of its wonderful taste.
Zesty Lentil Salad
This Zesty Lentil Salad might have flown a little under the radar on the blog this year, but in my kitchen, it was an absolute culinary triumph. I truly believe it’s a total winner, boasting an incredible blend of delicious, fresh, and savory flavors that come together in perfect harmony. Beyond its vibrant taste, it’s an incredibly hearty and filling vegetarian meal, packed with nourishing lentils, sautéed vegetables, and fresh spinach, all brightened by a tangy lemon dressing. It’s the kind of salad that satisfies like a main course, offering both robust texture and refreshing zest. If you’re looking for a wholesome and flavorful plant-based option, this recipe deserves a prime spot on your menu.
Easy Peruvian Shrimp
Towards the end of 2016, I embarked on an exciting adventure into Peruvian cuisine, and this Easy Peruvian Shrimp sauté quickly became one of my most surprising and beloved new discoveries. It’s a dish that captivates both visually and culinarily, boasting a vibrant color palette that matches its bold and exhilarating flavors. The recipe is super quick and simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner when you crave something exotic yet effortless. Barclay and I were both so enamored with its crazy delicious flavors that he insisted it absolutely had to be shared on the blog. This shrimp dish is a fantastic introduction to the vibrant world of Peruvian spices and a testament to how incredible new culinary explorations can be.
Brussels Sprouts Tacos with Creamy Avocado Sauce
For those who know my unwavering adoration for Mexican food, it’s no secret that I’m always on the hunt for a fantastic new taco recipe. In 2016, this yummy Brussels Sprouts Taco recipe, crowned with its truly heavenly creamy avocado sauce, emerged as my absolute favorite new discovery. It might sound unconventional, but the roasted Brussels sprouts offer a delightful texture and earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the vibrant taco seasonings. The star of the show, however, is undoubtedly that luscious, cooling avocado sauce, which ties all the components together beautifully. The combination of flavors in this dish is simply outstanding, making it a must-try for any taco enthusiast looking for a unique and incredibly satisfying twist on a classic.
Rigatoni with Mushrooms, Rosemary and Parmesan
Inspired by an unforgettable meal Barclay and I shared in Washington D.C. last fall, this simple Rigatoni with Mushrooms, Rosemary and Parmesan quickly became a new favorite in 2016. At first glance, the ingredients might seem straightforward, nothing groundbreaking, but I urge you to trust the process. These humble components unite to create a truly delicious and deeply flavorful meal that is far greater than the sum of its parts. The aromatic rosemary and earthy mushrooms are a match made in culinary heaven, perfectly complemented by the savory Parmesan cheese and hearty rigatoni. This Italian-inspired comfort food is not only incredibly simple to make but is also sure to impress and please any crowd, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Mimosa Sangria
Before 2016, the idea of pairing mimosas and sangria seemed quite unexpected to me. Yet, this Mimosa Sangria recipe proved that some of the best culinary discoveries are born from delightful combinations! It quickly transformed into one of my, and evidently thousands of yours, favorite drinks to serve at brunch. The genius lies in its simplicity: a refreshing blend that takes the classic mimosa and elevates it with the addition of vibrant fresh fruit and the nuanced flavors of sangria. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for entertaining, and its sparkling, fruity profile is super delicious and always a crowd-pleater. This drink is perfect for adding a festive touch to any gathering.
Toasted Almond Chipotle Guacamole
This Toasted Almond Chipotle Guacamole recipe has a special origin story, inspired by one of the amazing guacamoles served at La Condesa in Austin, a gem I discovered during a trip with my friend Kathryne in 2015. Though I intended to share it earlier, a return visit to Austin in 2016 served as a powerful reminder of how much I needed this recipe in my life, prompting me to finally get it on the blog. This guacamole is far from ordinary; the combination of crunchy toasted almonds with the smoky kick of chipotle creates a flavor profile that is irresistibly good and truly unique. If you’re searching for a show-stopping appetizer to bring to your next party, one that will undoubtedly become a crowd favorite and conversation starter, I cannot recommend this spectacular guacamole enough. It’s truly a game-changer.
Shrimp & Artichoke Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Just recently, I made this Shrimp & Artichoke Green Salad again, and it instantly reminded me of how truly amazing it is. While it might appear to have a lot going on, don’t be intimidated – it’s actually incredibly easy to assemble. The magic lies in the perfect pairing of its components: succulent Italian-seasoned shrimp, zesty artichoke hearts, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy toasted pine nuts, all tossed in a bright, invigorating lemon vinaigrette. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, contributing to a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that simply sings with freshness. This salad isn’t just a meal; it’s a delightful culinary experience that I wholeheartedly adore and highly recommend for its effortless elegance and sensational taste.
Easy Refrigerator Pickles
Confession time: 2016 was the year I genuinely, finally, learned to love pickles. And this ultra-easy Refrigerator Pickles recipe is the reason why. It has since become my absolute favorite method for making them at home. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and speed; you can have a batch prepped in just a few minutes, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. The result is an amazing batch of crisp, tangy pickles that are so irresistibly crunchy and flavorful, you won’t be able to stop at just one. Beyond their deliciousness, they are also incredibly healthy and a fantastic way to enjoy a vibrant snack or condiment. Say goodbye to store-bought, and hello to your new favorite homemade treat!
Golden Milk
In 2016, I made a conscious effort to incorporate more turmeric into my daily diet, and in doing so, I wholeheartedly fell for the “golden milk” craze that swept the wellness world. This specific recipe quickly became my preferred way to prepare this healthful beverage. It boasts a warm, inviting flavor profile that subtly reminds me of a spiced chai, making it incredibly comforting and enjoyable. Versatile by design, it works equally well served hot for a soothing evening drink or iced for a refreshing pick-me-up. A friendly word of caution from personal experience: be mindful when preparing it, as that vibrant yellow turmeric pigment can indeed stain your countertops if not wiped up promptly after any spills!
Slow Cooker Curried Lentil Soup
As many of you know, my affection for a reliable slow cooker recipe runs deep, and this simple Slow Cooker Curried Lentil Soup is a shining example of why. It’s a dish I’ve been making on and off for years, a true testament to its enduring appeal and comforting qualities. Finally making its debut on the blog in 2016, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy days, allowing you to “set it and forget it” while delicious flavors meld together. When you’re craving a hearty, healthy, and deeply flavorful classic lentil soup with an aromatic curry twist, this recipe will absolutely hit the spot. It’s a testament to the fact that wholesome and incredibly delicious meals don’t have to be complicated, making it a staple in my kitchen and hopefully yours too.
And there you have it – a heartfelt collection of my top 16 favorite recipes from 2016! This year brought so many fantastic culinary adventures and delicious discoveries, and these are the dishes that truly captured my heart and earned a permanent place in my recipe rotation. Each one offers something special, whether it’s a burst of unique flavor, comforting familiarity, or surprising ease of preparation. As we step into a new year, I hope this list inspires you to try something new, revisit an old favorite, or simply find joy in the process of cooking. Thank you for being a part of this amazing food community, and here’s to another year filled with even more delicious eats!