Your Favorite Recipes of 2016: A Delicious Year in Review
As the year draws to a close, marking New Year’s Eve Eve, we find ourselves reflecting on a truly remarkable and flavorful journey. First and foremost, a heartfelt thank you from Barclay and me for the overwhelming love and excitement shown in response to our wonderful news yesterday. Your incredible support means the world to us, and we are so grateful to have such an amazing community. We’re already buzzing with plans for the year ahead, including a springtime or early summer wedding, and we can’t wait to share more exciting adventures with you!
Looking forward, January promises a fresh start with an exciting lineup of new, health-focused recipes hitting the blog. After the festive indulgence of the holidays, many of us are ready to embrace more balanced and nutritious eating habits. Be sure to tune in this Monday for delicious and wholesome recipes that will help you kick off 2017 feeling fantastic. We believe healthy eating can be incredibly flavorful and satisfying!
A Look Back at a Delicious Year: Our Community’s Top Picks
Here at Gimme Some Oven, it’s a cherished tradition to round out December by celebrating the culinary highlights of the past year. We added a fantastic 129 new recipes in 2016, and if we do say so ourselves, it was an exceptionally delicious year for discovering new favorites. Tomorrow, we’ll share *my* personal top recipes from the blog. But today, we’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on *your* favorites – the recipes that resonated most with our incredible community. Without further ado, let’s dive into the most beloved recipes of 2016, as chosen by you!
The Perfect Baked Potato
“This is the first time I’ve ever wrote a recipe review.. these were that good! Simple tips but they took the average baked potato to a whole other level. I added a little butter, s&p & parsley.. perfect indeed. Thanks y’all!” -Emily
Who knew a simple baked potato could achieve such perfection? This recipe transforms a humble ingredient into a culinary masterpiece, offering simple yet effective tips to achieve that coveted crispy skin and fluffy interior. It’s a versatile side dish or a hearty main, ready to be customized with your favorite toppings, proving that classic comfort food never goes out of style.
Baked Lemon Chicken
“This was an awesome recipe!! Fail-proof, really. I definitely recommend it. I love the idea of the salt water brine, as it adds such an amazing taste to the chicken. The lemon and thyme work perfectly to compliment each other, and the taste is sublime. I have never had such a tasty chicken breast!! Thank you so much for sharing!!” -Laura
This Baked Lemon Chicken recipe is a true winner, celebrated for its fail-proof method and incredible flavor. The secret lies in the simple salt water brine, which ensures remarkably tender and juicy chicken every time. Infused with bright lemon and aromatic thyme, it’s a harmonious blend that elevates everyday chicken breast into a sublime dining experience, perfect for any night of the week.
Slow Cooker Crispy Chicken Carnitas
“One of the best crockpot meals EVER! We have taco night every week and I wanted something different so I tried this. It was so easy and so delicious! It tastes even better the next day. I am making it this week for my Taco Friday Game Night. Thank you for this deliciousness!” -Sha
Say hello to your new favorite taco night star! These Slow Cooker Crispy Chicken Carnitas offer the ultimate combination of convenience and flavor. By simmering for hours in the crock pot, the chicken becomes incredibly tender, then a quick crisp under the broiler delivers that irresistible texture contrast. It’s an unbelievably delicious and versatile dish, perfect for tacos, burritos, salads, or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Tortellini Minestrone
“I thought this sounded perfect for a chilly autumn day and it was! It was delicious – warm & comforting – and very easy. I can see that it will also be a recipe that can be changed up easily to use whatever veggies you have available. Thank you!” -Bev
This Tortellini Minestrone is the epitome of comfort in a bowl. Bursting with fresh, colorful vegetables and made exceptionally satisfying with the addition of cheesy tortellini, it’s a heartwarming meal ideal for a chilly evening. Its adaptability allows you to easily customize it with whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand, making it a truly flexible and fulfilling family favorite.
Moo Shu Pork (or Chicken)
“I just have to tell you–this looked so good that I faithfully made a double batch last night so it would last us for a bit. HOLY YUM. You are a genius and we have some very happy full bellies. Thanks for sharing and for your great recipes!” -Meredith
Craving takeout without leaving home? Our 20-Minute Moo Shu Pork (or Chicken) delivers incredible Asian-inspired flavors in a fraction of the time. This quick and easy recipe is packed with savory goodness, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and delicious without a lengthy cooking process. It’s so good, you’ll want to make a double batch!
Cucumber Quinoa Salad
“I’m becoming obsessed with your site! Everything I make of yours turns out great, and is a hit with the fam. Very healthy, too! Made this cucumber quinoa salad a week or so ago and loved it. Kept the feta in, even though I have one son who dislikes it, and even he gobbled it up. I work and tend to start cooking too late so had to put the quinoa in the freezer to cool, as suggested, but that worked out fine; everything still came together quickly. Love the light, fresh vinaigrette! Made a little extra and used it to dress our tossed salad the next night. Thanks for another keeper recipe!” -Sheila
Refreshingly light and incredibly flavorful, this Cucumber Quinoa Salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients. With vibrant basil, tangy feta, and a bright lemony vinaigrette, it’s a naturally gluten-free dish that comes together quickly. Perfect as a healthy side, a light lunch, or a fantastic potluck contribution, this salad is a testament to how delicious and satisfying wholesome eating can be.
Garlic Lovers Salmon
“I made this for dinner tonight, and it was so good! Very easy and very tasty!” -Suzanne
For seafood enthusiasts and busy cooks alike, our Garlic Lovers Salmon in Foil is an absolute must-try. Requiring minimal prep, this recipe features a succulent salmon fillet bathed in a mouth-watering lemon garlic butter sauce. It cooks beautifully whether grilled or baked in the oven, sealing in all the flavors for a tender, flaky finish. This dish is consistently a crowd-pleaser, proving that healthy eating can also be incredibly gourmet and effortless.
Mediterranean Pasta Salad
“This was awesome! I’ve tried a million pasta salad recipes trying to find a solid go-to recipe, and I’ve finally found it! The flavor of the vinaigrette is perfect. Happy day!” -Joanna
Search no more for the perfect pasta salad! Our Mediterranean Pasta Salad stands out with its vibrant flavors and refreshing profile. Loaded with fresh vegetables, olives, and feta, all brought together by a zesty lemon-herb vinaigrette, it’s a dish that’s both quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch, this recipe is truly a solid go-to for any occasion.
Creamy Cauliflower Soup
“Mmmmm! Just made this for lunch with a little pink Himalayan salt!!! Yummmmmmy! Thanks for the quick/easy tasty recipe! Perfect for the cozy rainy day!” -Jenna
Indulge in comfort without the guilt with our Creamy Cauliflower Soup. This recipe redefines comfort food, proving that healthier ingredients can yield profoundly delicious and satisfying results. It’s incredibly quick and easy to whip up, making it ideal for a cozy rainy day or a light yet filling lunch. Creamy, flavorful, and good for you – this soup ticks all the boxes, often vegan and gluten-free friendly.
Easy Quinoa Pizza Bowls
“MADE IT! Didn’t have ramekins so used a cupcake tin and actually turned out really great! My boyfriend loved it! Pinterest post for the win! Thanks for the great recipe :)” -Anna
Who says healthy can’t be fun? Our Easy Quinoa Pizza Bowls put a nutritious twist on a beloved classic. These bowls are a fantastic way to enjoy all your favorite pizza flavors in a naturally gluten-free format. Super easy to customize with any topping you desire, they’re a hit for family dinners, meal prep, or a creative way to use up leftover ingredients. It’s pizza reinvented!
Beef & Broccoli
“On a whim, I searched for broccoli supper ideas (to get rid of a giant Costco bag of florets) and this popped up. The “this is BETTER than a restaurant” line is what convinced me to try it. We JUST finished it off and it didn’t disappoint!!! I have you bookmarked and will be returning for more. Nothing says success like having to turn a forlorn looking adult male away from the kitchen because there isn’t any food left for a 3rd helping! Hah! Thank you so much for posting!” -Rebecca
Forget takeout – our Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen in just about 30 minutes. This quick and easy stir-fry delivers tender beef and crisp broccoli coated in a rich, savory sauce that’s utterly irresistible. It’s a perfect solution for a speedy, satisfying weeknight dinner that even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds of, making it a true family favorite.
Jambalaya Soup
“This jambalaya was fabulous!!!!! I’ve tried several of your other recipes, and loved them all. We made this the other night, and it was definitely a hit! Everyone loved it!” -Kelly
Warm up with a bowl of our hearty Jambalaya Soup, a fantastic way to enjoy the bold flavors of Creole cuisine. This incredibly versatile recipe allows you to combine shrimp, chicken, and spicy Andouille sausage – or any combination thereof – for a deeply satisfying and flavor-packed meal. It’s easy to prepare and yields a robust, delicious soup that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a comforting family dinner.
Post-Workout Green Smoothie
“I just wanted to let you know I found this recipe last week and I can’t stop making it. 🙂 It is so unbelievably refreshing! Thank you!” -Chris
Fuel your body the right way with our invigorating Post-Workout Green Smoothie. Packed with simple, nutritious ingredients, this smoothie is designed to naturally boost your energy levels and aid recovery. It’s not just healthy; it’s unbelievably refreshing and delicious, making it an ideal choice before or after a workout, or simply as a quick, healthy snack to keep you energized throughout the day.
30-Minute Sesame Chicken Noodle Stir-Fry
“I just started following and love the diversity of recipes! I made this recipe tonight and my husband said it is a keeper. Please keep making recipes of food you eat. We try to mix up our meals and keep it interesting.” -Janessa
When time is short but flavor is a must, our 30-Minute Sesame Chicken Noodle Stir-Fry comes to the rescue. This super easy and incredibly delicious recipe is a weeknight lifesaver, combining tender chicken, satisfying noodles, and crisp vegetables in a savory sesame sauce. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen, ensuring your dinners stay exciting and diverse.
Creamy Ham & Potato Soup
“Made this soup last night and seriously was one of my favorite soups I have made. Used the leftover ham from thanksgiving. My family LOVED it. I liked that it didnt need heavy cream. I used skim milk to keep it on the lower calorie side and it was so great! Thanks for the souper great recipe:)” -Kelly
Perfect for using up holiday leftovers or simply enjoying a hearty meal, our Creamy Ham & Potato Soup is pure comfort in a bowl. Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe delivers an amazing depth of flavor and a wonderfully creamy texture without the need for heavy cream. It’s a deliciously satisfying and flavorful soup that warms you from the inside out, making it a beloved choice for families.
Perfect Roasted Brussels Sprouts
“Absolutely awesome! My picky son actually ate these and asked for more!” -Linda
Even the staunchest Brussels sprouts skeptics will become fans after trying our Perfect Roasted Brussels Sprouts. This classic recipe highlights the natural sweetness and slight bitterness of the sprouts, achieving a deliciously caramelized exterior and tender interior. It’s incredibly easy to make and adaptable to various seasonings, but often, simple is best. This side dish is a revelation, turning a once-dreaded vegetable into a requested favorite.
Honey Beer Bread
“Just made this – insanely easy. Had all of the ingredients on hand anyway. Great texture, perfect crust, nice and dense (in a good way), while being soft and moist. Will definitely make again. I used an IPA and you can really smell it and taste it in there.” -Suzanne
Baking delicious bread has never been easier than with our Honey Beer Bread. Requiring only six simple ingredients, this recipe yields a loaf with a fantastic texture, a perfect crust, and a wonderfully soft, moist interior. The beer adds a unique depth of flavor, making it incredibly aromatic and satisfying. It’s a quick, no-fuss bread that pairs perfectly with soups, stews, or simply enjoyed on its own with a smear of butter.
Thank You for a Delicious 2016!
What a year of incredible flavors and shared culinary joy! We are so grateful for your continued engagement, your wonderful feedback, and for making Gimme Some Oven a vibrant community of food lovers. As we step into 2017, we’re excited to continue bringing you innovative, delicious, and easy recipes that inspire joy in your kitchen. Stay tuned for more amazing content, and don’t forget to check back tomorrow for my personal favorite recipes of the year. Happy cooking, and here’s to many more delicious adventures together!