they said "never give up"

so that's what I did

Some of you may know, and some of you may not, but this isn’t what I went to school for—not even close to what I spent the last 6 years studying. I found myself feeling confused about where to go next, given the typical path everyone follows: school, interview, job. I followed that path, and it left me feeling super uncertain.

I knew what I liked, though. Maybe that was part of the problem—I wasn’t looking to settle for something I could eventually grow to love. I wanted to be in a place where I felt truly fulfilled. Yes, a job is a job, and we may not always love what we do, but for some reason, that idea just didn’t sit right with me. So, I started questioning: what’s next?

Food has always been an outlet for me. I could cook until there’s no food left in my house. For some, that’s a chore, and understandably so, but for me, it’s pure joy. I was craving creativity, and I didn’t know if I’d find it if I stuck to the path I was on.

What started just three months ago as writing for fun and occasionally posting on Instagram has turned into a job—one that happens to be a passion, a gift, and a joy. I’m proud to be developing recipes for more than just my followers, turning my love for food and creating into something much much bigger.

This backstory is just to say thank you.

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Kitchen tools and treasures:

Kitchen aid hand juicer

Some might say all juicers are the same, but trust me, this one has seen plenty of lemons and limes and is simply unmatched. It even has a little spout for easy pouring to avoid the mess most juicers make. I also use real citrus in recipes, so having an incredible juicer is key to my kitchen.

This next treasure doesn’t come with a link—it’s a staple that keeps thriving: a basil plant. While other herbs may be preferred in your kitchen, my basil plants have been flourishing for months. With just daily watering, they keep growing rapidly and consistently. Whenever I need basil, I simply cut the stem slightly above where I want to use a leaf, and it quickly grows back. I never have to buy packaged basil, and it’s always fresh and ready to use. I highly suggest an herb plant—because why not!

American Spoon

This final brand truly brings so many of my recipes to life. I’m not just a fan of everything American Spoon—I’m completely obsessed with their unique flavor combinations and seasonal products. Their sauces, condiments, dips, and spreads are some of the best I’ve ever tried. My favs so far: chili jam, maple BBQ, and lemon honey. Whether I’m making coffee, breakfast, or dinner, I reach for American Spoon.

~ this week’s preview ~

Cripsy tofu + kale slaw sandwich. Creamy couscous with romesco cauliflower.

CREAMY COUSCOUS WITH ROMESCO CAULIFLOWER

Recommendations:

• While the recipe doesn't specify, pearled couscous is ideal for this dish. Its texture and ability to absorb flavors make it perfect for a creamy preparation, unlike regular couscous which lacks the same texture and capacity to expand.

Grocery List for Creamy Couscous with Romesco Cauliflower