Amanda

Amanda

Feta & Cranberry Rigatoni Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Introduction Pasta salad often suffers from an identity crisis: it is either drowning in heavy mayonnaise or dry and flavorless. However, search trends show a massive spike in “no-mayo pasta salads” around both the summer BBQ season and the winter…

Chocolate Orange Tartlets: The Perfect Citrus Pairing

Introduction Did you know that the combination of chocolate and orange isn’t just a holiday preference, but a masterpiece of food chemistry? The volatile essential oils in orange zest (primarily limonene) cut through the heavy richness of cocoa butter, creating…

Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies (The “Ferrero” Effect)

Introduction Did you know that Gianduja—the original paste of chocolate and hazelnuts—was invented in Turin, Italy, during Napoleon’s regency to stretch limited cocoa supplies? Today, that combination (popularized by Nutella and Ferrero Rocher) is arguably the world’s most beloved confectionary…

Zesty Lime Bars (The “Key Lime Pie” Square)

Introduction Did you know that the distinct flavor of “Key Limes” comes from their higher acidity and stronger aroma compared to standard Persian limes? However, juicing tiny Key Limes is a labor of love (and hand cramps). This recipe for…

Mediterranean Style Salmon Tacos with Cucumber Salsa

Introduction Did you know that the “Mediterranean Diet” has been ranked the #1 best overall diet by U.S. News & World Report for seven years running? While tacos are traditionally Mexican, the concept of a protein wrapped in a vessel…

Beef and Cheese Burritos (Better Than Frozen)

Introduction Did you know that the frozen burrito market is valued at over $6 billion globally? It is the ultimate convenience food. However, convenience often comes at the cost of texture and flavor—gummy tortillas and mystery meat paste. This recipe…