September 2, 2023
Welcome, cherished readers, to the inaugural edition of our Saturday newsletter!
My name is Lynne Feifer, and if you’re receiving this delightful weekly dispatch, it means you’re already a valued member of the “365 Days of Baking and More” community. This newsletter is a natural extension of our shared passion for delicious food, heartwarming recipes, and the joy of creating culinary magic in our kitchens. While I’m still brainstorming for the perfect, catchy name that truly captures the spirit of our Saturday gatherings, I assure you that creativity, much like a perfectly proofed dough, cannot be rushed. I’m open to all your brilliant suggestions – feel free to send them my way!
I envisioned this weekly newsletter as a dedicated space to reconnect with all of you on a more personal level. It’s an opportunity to share not just recipes, but also glimpses into my weekly adventures, intriguing discoveries I’ve made, and exclusive sneak peeks into what’s cooking next on the blog. I truly missed the vibrant interaction we used to share during my Facebook Live sessions. Unfortunately, those became increasingly difficult for our community to access due to platform changes. This newsletter, however, offers a direct and intimate line of communication, making your visits to 365 Days of Baking and More and Easy Recipes from Home even more personal and engaging. Your thoughts, questions, and comments are always welcome; please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly at [email protected]. I truly look forward to hearing from you!
Culinary Journeys & Memorable Adventures
A couple of weeks ago, my husband Kurt, our younger daughter Emma, and I embarked on an epic cross-country road trip. What felt like a “gazillion” miles took us from our charming hometown in Rhode Island all the way to Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, where our oldest daughter now resides. This journey was more than just a drive; it was an incredible opportunity to explore vast stretches of North America, discovering hidden gems and breathtaking landscapes we had never witnessed before. The open road, the changing scenery, and the anticipation of reunion made every mile an adventure.
Along the way, we experienced the comfort and unique charm of various Airbnb accommodations, soaked in countless sights, and indulged in some truly phenomenal food experiences that will inspire many future recipes! Our culinary exploration began in Fargo, North Dakota, at the lively Würst Bier Hall. This place was a treat for the senses! We bravely (and deliciously) ventured into their Bacon Flight – four distinctively flavored, thick-cut bacon slices, each perfectly paired with a different craft beer. Of course, no visit to a bier hall is complete without their giant pretzels and rich beer cheese dip, which were absolutely spot-on. For my main course, I savored the Jäger Schnitzel, a tender, breaded pork loin generously smothered in a savory mushroom gravy, served alongside delicate spætzle and perfectly braised cabbage. It was an explosion of comforting flavors that I absolutely adored! Kurt and Emma opted for classic brats, but even they had to admit my schnitzel was the star of the show. These are the kinds of authentic flavors I love to recreate at home.
Our Canadian leg of the journey took us to Edmonton, Alberta, where nature’s grandeur awaited us at Elk Island National Park. Imagine seeing magnificent bison up close – not *too* close, of course, but close enough to truly appreciate their majestic presence in their natural habitat! The vastness of the park and the incredible wildlife spotting were truly memorable. Later, back in the bustling downtown ICE District, we treated ourselves to the quintessential Canadian experience: fabulous poutine and gourmet burgers at Delux Burger Bar. The rich gravy, squeaky cheese curds, and crispy fries of their poutine were a revelation, perfectly complementing their juicy, handcrafted burgers.
The drive south through Calgary towards Montana was spectacular, revealing the awe-inspiring beauty of the Canadian Rockies. The transition into Glacier National Park in Montana presented us with truly breathtaking mountain vistas that made us pull over countless times for photos. The sheer scale and rugged beauty of these peaks are something everyone should experience. In Bozeman, Montana, I discovered a Chicken Pot Pie that has forever changed my understanding of comfort food. At Sidewinders American Grill, a spot famously reviewed by Guy Fieri on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” I devoured what can only be described as the most flavorful, flaky, and soul-satisfying pot pie imaginable. It’s now at the top of my list to recreate in my own kitchen! And as if that wasn’t enough, their Key Lime Crush cocktail was perhaps one of the best mixed drinks I’ve ever had – a perfect balance of tart and sweet, and definitely another recipe I’m determined to master at home.
Our journey continued with a fantastic meal in Rapid City, South Dakota, at El Sombrero Mexican Restaurant. The food was undeniably authentic, the service was impeccable, and the staff radiated warmth and friendliness. It was a delightful stop that further fueled our culinary explorations. One of the planned highlights for our return trip was a visit to the striking Badlands National Park. We were eager to hike the famed Notch Trailhead, known for its exhilarating cable ladder with wooden rungs that adds a unique challenge to the climb and leads to spectacular panoramic views. While it might be a bit challenging for some due to its elevation and the ladder, the reward is incredible. However, for those seeking a more relaxed experience, the park offers numerous other scenic trails and easily accessible pull-offs that boast equally gorgeous vistas. I wholeheartedly recommend dedicating ample time to drive through this geological wonder; the rugged, otherworldly landscape is truly magnificent and unlike anything you’ll see elsewhere. It’s a photographer’s dream and a hiker’s delight.
This Week’s Recipe Highlights: Savoring the End of Summer & Kicking Off Fall Flavors
Each week, this newsletter will bring you a convenient recap of the delectable recipes I’ve recently shared across both 365 Days of Baking and More and my second site, Easy Recipes from Home. Consider this your cheat sheet for meal planning inspiration!
Even though this weekend unofficially marks the end of summer, the spirit of warm weather can linger a little longer, especially with this vibrant Summer Rosé Sangria. Bursting with your favorite crisp rosé wine and an abundance of fresh, juicy fruits like sweet watermelon, ripe peaches, and tangy kiwi, it’s the perfect, elegant way to bid a fond farewell to the sunny season. Or, keep this recipe tucked away for those unexpected hot days that might pop up next year, ensuring you always have a refreshing glass within reach.
As we transition into cooler weather and the excitement of game day season begins, it’s time to start planning those menus! This incredible Avocado Salsa needs to be at the top of your list. It’s a light, refreshing appetizer featuring generous chunks of creamy fresh avocado, sweet corn kernels, robust black beans, and finely diced red pepper, all tossed in a simple yet flavorful vinaigrette. It’s a vibrant explosion of textures and tastes. If you plan to serve it in crunchy tortilla scoops, as pictured, remember to assemble them just before serving to maintain the scoops’ crispness and prevent them from softening.
For those evenings when only a hearty, deeply satisfying dinner will do, look no further than this phenomenal Jambalaya. While the ingredient list might appear extensive, trust me, every single component plays a vital role in building its complex, rich flavor profile. Despite its robust nature, this dish comes together surprisingly easily, making it a perfect choice for a flavorful weeknight meal or a comforting weekend feast. Personally, I prefer to omit shrimp from my version, but by all means, feel free to add it to enhance its traditional authenticity. And for the ultimate pairing, don’t forget to serve it alongside a generous helping of my beloved Corn Spoon Bread – the perfect companion to soak up all those incredible jambalaya flavors!
What would a weekend be without a delightful coffee cake? This holiday weekend presents the perfect opportunity to bake and savor my exquisite Blueberry Sour Cream Coffee Cake. Despite its name, rest assured, there’s no actual coffee in the cake itself! It’s simply designed to be the ultimate accompaniment to your morning cup of java or a soothing mug of tea. The true beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility: it’s absolutely perfect as a special addition to your breakfast or brunch spread, but elegant enough to serve as a stunning dessert. The choice, and the delicious enjoyment, is all yours!
Captivating Matches & Sporting Spirits: What I’m Watching
Beyond the kitchen and the open road, I’ve been completely engrossed in the thrilling tennis U.S. Open this past week. The intensity, skill, and sheer athleticism on display have been captivating. I’m eagerly following its progression and have already developed a few favorite players whose journeys I’m particularly invested in. Jessica Pegula, Ons Jabeur, Jennifer Brady, Carlos Alcaraz, and Gaël Monfils have all demonstrated incredible talent and sportsmanship. While Monfils unfortunately lost on Thursday, his performance was nothing short of remarkable. He fought with immense passion and was a true ambassador for the sport, consistently displaying a genuine smile during his matches and refusing to let emotions overwhelm his focus. Some of the matches we’ve witnessed so far have been absolutely spectacular, setting the stage for what promises to be an incredibly exciting and dramatic finals!
Autumnal Inspirations & Adorable Edibles: Favorite Finds
As the leaves begin to hint at their changing hues, my thoughts invariably turn to fun and flavorful fall foods. My dear friend Mary, over at Barefeet in the Kitchen, is a true master of autumnal delights, and her blog is overflowing with fantastic ideas! I’ve particularly got my eye on her tempting Peanut Butter Apple Dip. You can absolutely bet that the moment we return from our apple-picking adventure, this dip will be one of the very first things I whip up to enjoy the crisp, sweet bounty of the season!
Speaking of adorable, these enchanting Brownie Bite Gnomes are beyond cute and would make a whimsical, super charming addition to any holiday dessert table. Beyond their irresistible appearance, I’m a firm believer that you simply cannot go wrong with the classic combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries – a match made in dessert heaven! This simple yet creative idea truly brightens any celebratory spread. I’ll be diligently preparing more culinary delights and exciting updates, so make sure to keep a close watch on your inbox next Saturday!
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Here’s to a week filled with joy, delicious food, and cherished moments! ❤️
Hugs,
Lynne