Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce

 

I had heard that air frying salmon is the only way to go for a meal that’s quick, delicious, nutritious, and perfect for any occasion, but I have to say that I was a bit reluctant to try it with my expensive piece of salmon. All of that has changed because now this air fryer salmon with lemon dill sauce is my new go-to! The best part? It’s ready in just 15 minutes, doesn’t heat up the kitchen, and delivers a burst of flavor that feels both everyday and elegant.

 This recipe is a game-changer for its simplicity and versatility. The air fryer works its magic to cook the salmon to perfection, while the zesty, creamy lemon dill sauce enhances every bite. Plus, it’s a nutritious option that’s light yet satisfying, ergo it is ideal for health-conscious foodies or anyone craving a gourmet meal without the fuss.

Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce

2 skinless salmon fillets

Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Lemon Dill Sauce:
½ c. sour cream
1½ T. fresh minced dill
½ t. grated garlic
½ t. Dijon mustard
¼ t. whole grain mustard
½ t. lemon zest
Juice of ½ lemon
Salt and pepper (to taste)

Preheat your air fryer to 360°F. Place the skinless salmon fillet on a paper liner, season with salt and pepper, and set it into the preheated air fryer. 

Air fry for 10-12 minutes, depending on the fillet’s thickness. Check at 10 minutes to ensure it’s cooked to your liking—flaky and tender is the goal!

While the salmon cooks, whisk together the sour cream, minced dill, grated garlic, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Spoon the sauce over the warm salmon or serve it on the side. For the best flavor, refrigerate the sauce for a bit to let the flavors meld—or enjoy it fresh! It’s also divine drizzled over potatoes.

The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days, making this a fantastic meal-prep option.

Serves 2

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Made. by Lia, Everyday Craft Baking by Lia Holter, Reviewed

Growing up in a suburb of St. Louis, I’ve always had a soft spot for local gems, so discovering Made. by Lia, Everyday Craft Baking by Lia Holter, the heart and soul behind the adorable Made. by Lia bakery, felt like a homecoming. As someone who doesn’t consider herself to be a master baker (though I dabble), I was drawn to this book not just for its recipes but for the warmth and nostalgia Lia pours into every page. Her story, rooted in family, community, and a triumphant win on “Next Great Baker" resonates deeply, especially since her bakery is in the very suburb where I spent my childhood.

What I love most about this book is how approachable it feels. The recipes, from crowd-pleasing Lemon Blueberry Scones to the indulgent Chocolate Cherry Birthday Cake, are written with such clear, concise instructions that even a baking novice like me feels confident tackling them. The Birthday Cake Scones? Adorable and drool-worthy. The Butter Biscuits? They’re on my to-bake list this week, and just looking at the photos makes my mouth water. Lia’s ability to balance simple and complex recipes ensures there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out.

The book’s design is a thoughtful touch, especially for someone like me who appreciates readability as I get older. The sans-serif font is large, clear, and easy on the eyes—perfect for flipping through while covered in flour. I was also thrilled to see vegan and gluten-free options, making this a cookbook that truly welcomes all bakers. The chapters on scones and cakes stole my heart, particularly the Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake, which had me practically licking the page.

Lia’s passion for baking as a craft shines through, and her professional tips make you feel like she’s right there in the kitchen with you. This book isn’t just about recipes; it’s about creating memories, sharing love through food, and embracing the joy of baking. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, and I can’t wait to pass these recipes on to my own family.

 You can order a copy here.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

 Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Ready Press Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Savor the Nostalgia with Lake of the Ozarks Ham and Cheddar Rolls

 

Nestled in the heart of Missouri, the Lake of the Ozarks was once home to a cozy gem called Peace 'n Plenty Café, where locals and visitors alike gathered for hearty, comforting dishes that warmed the soul. Though the café has long since closed, its spirit lives on in recipes like these Ham and Cheddar Swirls, inspired by the café’s knack for blending simple ingredients into unforgettable flavors. These rolls, crafted with the ease of a bread machine, combine the savory goodness of sharp cheddar, diced ham, and fresh scallions, all swirled into a soft, golden dough. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dinner side, these swirls bring a taste of nostalgia to your table.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a breeze thanks to the bread machine’s dough setting, which does the heavy lifting for you. The result? Fluffy, cheesy rolls with a delightful ham-and-scallion filling that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Serve them warm with a pat of butter, pair them with a crisp salad, or pack them for a picnic by the lake. Let’s dive into this recipe and bring a piece of Peace 'n Plenty’s charm back to life!

 Lake of the Ozarks Ham and Cheddar Rolls

 For the Dough:

½ c. warm water (110°F)

½ c. whole milk, warmed

6 T. vegetable shortening

3 c. all-purpose flour

1 ½ c. whole wheat flour

½ c. granulated sugar

3½ t. active dry yeast (1½ packets)

1 T. baking powder

2 large eggs

1 t. salt

For the Filling:

½ c. unsalted butter, softened

2 c. sharp cheddar cheese, grated

¾ lb. deli ham, thinly sliced and diced

2/3 c. scallions, finely chopped

For the Topping:

1 large egg, beaten

 Add dough ingredients to your bread machine pan in the order recommended by the manufacturer (typically liquids first, then dry ingredients, with yeast last). Select the “dough” setting and start the machine. The cycle usually takes about 90 minutes.

 Once the dough cycle is complete, transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a 12x18-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese, diced ham, and scallions. Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log, pinching the seam to seal. Slice into 14 equal pieces, about 1-inch thick each.Grease two 6-well muffin tins and two 6-ounce ramekins (or use one 12-well muffin tin and two ramekins). Place one slice in each well or ramekin, gently squeezing the outer edge to make the center pop up slightly.Cover with plastic wrap sprayed with cooking spray. Place in a warm, draft-free area and let rise until doubled, about 40-50 minutes.Preheat oven to 350°F. Brush roll tops with beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown. Cool in pans for 5-10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

 Enjoy warm with butter, as a side, or as a grab-and-go snack.

 Yield: 14 rolls

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

 Freeze baked rolls in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving. 

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

 

Coastal New England Christmas: Help Me Set the Perfect Holiday Table

 

This past Fourth of July, while celebrating my daughter-in-law’s birthday, our family’s conversation turned to memorable holiday meals. Last Christmas, I hosted a Cajun-themed dinner with gumbo, jambalaya, and dirty rice—a hit! This year, I’m dreaming of a New England Christmas with clam chowder or lobster bisque, crabcakes, roasted vegetables, and my son’s suggestion of lobster macaroni and cheese. It’s a rich menu, and now I need your help to set the perfect table to match this coastal-inspired feast.

I’m torn about which dishes to use from my collection: the wintry “Tranquil Trails” by Pfaltzgraff, the elegant “Balsam Lane” by Lenox, the bold Williams-Sonoma crab plates, the festive “Yuletide” by Rosina Queen, or the nostalgic Johnson Brothers “Friendly Village,” the latter two inherited from my mother. I’m also unsure about the centerpiece and color scheme—should I stick with classic red and green, go for icy blues, or embrace sea tones? Your ideas will help me create a memorable coastal New England Christmas table, so please share your thoughts!

 Here are the contenders for my table setting, each with a unique vibe:“Yuletide” by Rosina Queen: I inherited these from my mother. She used them every Christmas, so they’re special. These dishes feature classic Christmas motifs with the holly and berries, so are perfect for a traditional holiday feel, but what coastal elements would work with these as part of a centerpiece? 

“Tranquil Trails” by Pfaltzgraff: With the earthy, nature-inspired designs, these dishes evoke a coastal forest in soft sea tones like greens and blues, ideal for a subtle seaside look, but are the colors too nontraditional for a traditionalist like me? “Balsam Lane” by Lenox: Elegant and wintry, this pattern’s delicate motifs suit icy blues and whites, creating a refined, frosty New England harbor aesthetic, but are they too blah for the excitement of Christmas?Williams-Sonoma Crab Plates: this playful and bold plates are really coming in from out of left field, these plates scream coastal charm and complement the crabcake menu, but they are such a non-traditional choice and would probably make for a stand out table, but I can’t imagine what else I would pair with them. 

 Johnson Brothers “Friendly Village”: These inherited dishes were favorites of my mother's. She had service for 12, the wine glasses, at all of the complete pieces. They offer cozy, rustic New England village scenes, perfect for a warm, traditional holiday table with a nod to the coast, but have I strayed too far off the road of intent?Speaking of Johnson Brothers, what about their “Night Before Christmas” collection?

 At this point, I’m leaning toward “Balsam Lane” with icy blues and a driftwood centerpiece for elegance, but the crab plates with a nautical rope accent are tempting for fun. What do you think? Which dishes, colors, and centerpiece would you choose for a New England Christmas? I’m planning early because, believe it or not, August is already here, and Christmas will be too! Share your ideas below to help me create a festive, coastal-inspired table.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Empanadas by Donna Kelly, Reviewed

As someone who’s always been enchanted by the magic of handheld pies, I was beyond excited to get my hands on Donna Kelly’s latest cookbook, Empanadas. Let me tell you, this book is a game-changer for anyone who loves food that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With over 70 recipes packed into its pages, it has quickly become my go-to for creating flavorful, golden turnovers that bring joy to every bite.

What I love most about this cookbook is how approachable it makes empanadas, whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out. Kelly offers three distinct dough recipes, each one carefully crafted for either frying or baking to achieve that perfect crispy or flaky texture. And for those days when time isn’t on my side (hello, weeknights!), she includes a genius shortcut using tortillas. It’s like she knew I’d need a quick fix to satisfy my empanada cravings.The heart of this book, though, is the fillings; over 60 recipes that take you on a global flavor journey. I’ve been having a blast experimenting with savory options like Venezuelan Mojo Chicken, which bursts with zesty citrus and herbs, and Mexican Street Corn, a creamy, spicy nod to one of my favorite street foods. The Louisiana Jambalaya filling brought a taste of New Orleans to my kitchen, while the Asparagus and Goat Cheese empanadas felt like a fancy springtime treat that had me going back for seconds (okay, maybe thirds).Kelly also sprinkles in holiday-inspired fillings that make every occasion feel special. I’m already planning to whip up the Lucky New Year’s Hoppin’ John empanadas for a festive start to 2026, and the Easter Ham and Scalloped Potatoes filling is calling my name for next spring. But the real showstoppers for me? The sweet empanadas. The Peach Melba filling, with its juicy peaches and tart raspberry drizzle, is pure summer bliss, and the Chocolate Raspberry empanadas? Let’s just say they disappeared from my counter faster than I’d like to admit.To top it all off, Kelly includes seven bonus recipes for sauces and drizzles that take these pies to a whole new level. I’ve been obsessed with pairing her tangy chimichurri with the savory fillings and her sweet caramel drizzle with the dessert empanadas. It’s these little touches that make every recipe feel like a complete experience.Donna Kelly has truly outdone herself, and I can’t wait to keep exploring this cookbook. If you’re ready to dive into the world of empanadas, grab a copy of and let the folding, filling, and feasting begin! 

You can order your copy here.

Disclaimer: I received an advanced digital copy of this book from Gibbs Smith in exchange for my honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Creole Meatballs: A Spicy-Sweet Cajun Sensation

 

Get ready to spice up your next meal with these Creole Meatballs, a bold, flavorful dish that’s sure to steal the show! Packed with Cajun zest and glazed with a sweet-tangy peach-BBQ sauce, these meatballs are a perfect blend of heat and sweetness. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a holiday gathering, or just craving something delicious, this easy recipe will become a go-to favorite.

 This recipe combines lean ground beef with the punchy flavors of Crystal hot pepper sauce and Slap Ya Mama Cajun seasoning. Worcestershire sauce adds a savory depth, while Panko breadcrumbs and milk keep the meatballs juicy and tender. The star of the dish? A sticky, sweet glaze made from barbecue sauce and peach preserves that coats each meatball in pure perfection. Simple to make and ready in under an hour, these meatballs are ideal for appetizers or a hearty main course.Creole Meatballs

1 lb. lean ground beef

1 t. Crystal hot pepper sauce

1 T. Slap Ya Mama Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)

1 T. Worcestershire sauce

1 T. dried parsley

¼ c. finely minced onion

¼ c. Panko breadcrumbs

¼ c. milk

1 large egg

½ c. Stubbs barbeque sauce

½ c. peach preserves 

        Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a medium baking sheet.

In a large bowl, mix ground beef, hot pepper sauce, Cajun seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, onion, Panko breadcrumbs, milk, and egg until well combined.

Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place on the prepared baking sheet.

 Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked with no pink in the center.

 In a small bowl, stir together barbeque sauce and peach preserves until smooth.

 Transfer cooked meatballs to a serving dish, pour the sauce over them, and toss gently to coat.

 Serve hot and enjoy the flavor explosion!

Makes About 20 meatballs

 Serving Suggestion: These meatballs shine as a party appetizer with toothpicks for easy grabbing or as a main dish alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. Their bold Cajun spices and sweet glaze make them a hit for any gathering, from casual game nights to festive holiday spreads.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Mom’s Zucchini and Tomato Medley with Lemon Olive Pesto

Growing up, my mother’s kitchen was a haven of delicious, home-cooked meals, crafted mostly from instinct rather than recipes. Her vast cookbook collection was a treasure trove, but our daily meals came straight from her heart and experience. As a vegetable enthusiast, I always loved her zucchini and tomatoes, a simple, soul-warming dish. When I moved out, I asked for the recipe, but she had none. She described it as best she could, and I scribbled notes, only to lose that precious slip of paper.

 

This summer, harvesting my first zucchini brought those memories flooding back. Determined to recreate her dish, I leaned on fresh ingredients and added a 21st-century twist: lemon olive pesto for a bright, zesty kick. While my mother wouldn’t have used pesto, its vibrant flavor turns this dish into something special. This Zucchini and Tomato Medley is a nourishing, meatless main or a cozy side, perfect with toasted rustic bread or croutons. It’s simple, fresh, and full of love.

Zucchini and Tomato Medley with Lemon Olive Pesto 

  2 large zucchini 
  5 large basil leaves 
  ½ onion, thinly sliced 
  2 c. chopped peeled fresh tomatoes (or one 14.5-ounce can petite diced tomatoes) 
  1 c. water 
  1 t. sugar 
  1 t. kosher salt 
  1 Melissa’s dried chile de arbol or pinch of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste) 
1 T. lemon olive pesto 
  Parmesan cheese, for serving 
  Toasted rustic bread slices or croutons (optional) 

Slice zucchini in half lengthwise, then crosswise into ¼” thick half-moons. 

Stack basil leaves, roll tightly, and slice into thin strips. 

In a large saucepan, combine zucchini, basil, onion, tomatoes, water, sugar, salt, and chile or red pepper flakes. 

Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes, until zucchini and onion are tender.  

Stir in lemon olive pesto. Check occasionally, stirring to prevent liquid from evaporating completely; adjust heat if needed. 

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt.

Serve hot, warm, or at room temperature, over toasted bread or croutons if desired. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.  

This dish is a heartfelt nod to my mother’s cooking, blending nostalgia with a fresh, modern twist. It’s simple, versatile, and perfect for summer harvests.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.