Posts | Taste Recipes https://www.tasteofhome.com Find Recipes, Appetizers, Desserts, Holiday Recipes & Healthy Cooking Tips Tue, 13 May 2025 22:21:19 +0000 en-US hourly 6 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.2 https://www.tasteofhome.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/TOH_Pinterest_ProfilePhoto_RedBkg.png?resize=32,32 Posts | Taste Recipes https://www.tasteofhome.com 32 32 Pop-Tarts Just Quietly Dropped a Brand-New Product for Summer https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/pop-tarts-ice-cream-sandwiches/ https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/pop-tarts-ice-cream-sandwiches/#respond Tue, 13 May 2025 22:21:19 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2142940 Three Pop-Tarts faves are about to have cool sandwich spin-offs.

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Pop-Tarts are an absolute staple for me. Quick, easy, sweet and delicious, there’s nothing as satisfying as crinkling open that shiny silver package to reveal twin pastries fit for royalty (or at least that’s how it feels).

While Pop-Tarts has added quite a few different flavors since its debut, like the recent Girl Scout Cookies collab, the concept has stayed consistent. You truly can’t go wrong with this rectangular pastry.

So, how could one possibly improve on such a fine food? The answer is ice cream.

Apparently, Pop-Tarts has joined forces with the ice cream sandwich world. Here’s what we know about summer’s next best treat!

What are Pop-Tarts ice cream sandwiches?!

Creamy ice cream will be layered between two familiar Pop-Tarts pastries, completely transforming the warm Pop-Tart experience into a sweet, frozen escapade. Three fan-favorite flavors will be available as ice cream sandwiches: Frosted Brown Sugar Cinnamon, Frosted Strawberry and Frosted Chocolate Fudge. My only question is, how did I not think of using Pop-Tarts to make my own ice cream sandwiches?

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While my heart yearns for Wild Berry, I’m more than happy to indulge in any available flavor. We love Pop-Tarts because they’re nostalgic and remind us of easier times. Combine that with the simplicity and whimsy of an ice cream sandwich, and you have a dead ringer for a summer smash hit.

Younger me would have given anything to have Pop-Tarts for breakfast and a Pop-Tarts ice cream sandwich out by the pool. I’m not one to disappoint my inner child—sweet moments are far too hard to come by.

Where do I find them?

Pop-Tarts ice cream sandwiches will be available exclusively at Walmart starting May 2025. Later this summer, Pop-Tarts ice cream pints will also be available at select retailers.

Related:

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Trader Joe’s Just Stocked a Brand-New Cooler Bag, and I Know It’s Going to Sell Out Immediately https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/trader-joes-cooler-bag-may-2025/ https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/trader-joes-cooler-bag-may-2025/#respond Tue, 13 May 2025 19:58:21 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2142878 It would be just peachy to scoop up this new Trader Joe's cooler bag!

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As if we needed yet another reason to be obsessed with Trader Joe’s, an all-new cooler bag color has appeared in stores. Fans are scooping them up at a record pace, exactly like they did with the wildly popular lilac cooler bag.

The new release is an 8-gallon insulated tote in a peachy hue, complete with the original Trader Joe’s Pasadena location emblazoned on the front. Fans are obsessed with the affordably priced bags (only $7.99!) and scoop them up as soon as they appear in stores.

What’s so special about the Trader Joe’s cooler bags?

For starters, who doesn’t need a good way to bring home all that Trader Joe’s frozen food? TJ’s also sells mini cooler bags that make a good lunch box.

Beyond function, though, the colorful bags have become a niche status symbol. Since their releases are infrequent (and come in a limited quantity), the bags are a fun yet useful collectible item for Trader Joe’s fanatics. If you can find a bag in stores, look for them on eBay or Poshmark at a steep markup.

Do all stores have the cooler bags?

Trader Joe’s began rolling out its peach cooler bag on May 6, so while some stores may not have them in stock anymore, others could be putting out their shipment now. I recommend calling ahead to see if your location has any available.

The spring-hued bag is already seeing steep markups across various reselling platforms, so grab yours while Trader Joe’s has them in stock!

Related:

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McDonald’s Just Brought Back This Wildly Popular Happy Meal After a Two-Year Hiatus https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/mcdonalds-squishmallows-happy-meal/ Tue, 13 May 2025 17:31:01 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2142871 Squishmallows collectors, this Happy Meal is for you.

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I remember when Teeny Beanies appeared in Happy Meals in the late ’90s. The McDonald’s drive-thru was sheer chaos every time a new collection of pocket-sized Beanies dropped. People lined up in droves to snag Pinchers the Lobster and Smoochy the Frog. I cherished my Patti the Platypus from the moment I tore open her tiny plastic bag.

Boo Buckets have come close, and kids loved the Furby toys and Hot Wheels cars. But no collection of Happy Meal toys could whip up a frenzy like Teeny Beanies—until now.

Here’s what Ronald McDonald himself has in store for us.

What is the new McDonald’s Happy Meal?

McDonald’s is bringing back its wildly popular Squishmallows Happy Meal toys! Your kiddo’s Chicken McNuggets will now come with one of 12 adorable plush characters, like the adorable cactus Maritza. Squish collectors, the full lineup is: Charles, Zumirez, Junie, Rorty, Mirren, Babs, Rossi, Maritza, Cam, Cookie, Stevon and Halley. Halley is an Intergalactic Axolotl, which is a brand-new McDonald’s exclusive.

Each pocket-sized Squishmallow comes with a character hang tag that tells you the name and a little about each Squish. There will also be a code to scan so you your kids can play an interactive game. No word on whether you’ll need tag protectors to protect your Squishmallows investment.

This collection is returning after a two-year hiatus, and people are already lighting up Instagram to say they’re having Happy Meals for dinner all week long.

When will McDonald’s have Squishmallows?

You can start building your Squish squad right now. The toys will only be available for a limited time while supplies last, so find your perfect Squish before they all disappear. If you don’t make it to McDonald’s for a Squishmallows Happy Meal, hold out for another couple of years. You can buy a full set of the 1998 McDonald’s Teeny Beanies on eBay for only $20.

Oh, and for the next hit McDonald’s Happy Meal toys? My bet is a Jellycats collection.

Related:

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This Fast-Food Chain Just Dropped a Sandwich Called ‘The Leo,’ and I Feel Blessed https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/portillos-the-leo-review/ https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/portillos-the-leo-review/#respond Mon, 12 May 2025 22:03:16 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2142530 Catholic or not, this might be the best Italian beef you'll ever encounter.

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I’ve had my fair share of tasty treats throughout my career as a fast-food critic. I’m talking fried chicken, ice cream, and pickle fries. But I live in Chicago, and I’ve never had the chance to review a Windy City original: the Italian beef sandwich.

Introduced in the early 1900s by Italian immigrants, Italian beef is a staple of our proud city. When you visit, expect to have at least four Italian beef restaurants nearby at all times. When it comes to Italian beef restaurants, Midwestern fast-food chain Portillo’s shines with a heavenly glow.

The chain was quick to capitalize on Chicago’s latest global achievement, the election of Chicago-born Pope Leo XIV on May 8, 2025. Just one day later, Portillo’s announced “the Leo,” a scrumptious Italian beef created in honor of its holy namesake.

I booked it over to my nearest Portillo’s as soon as I heard the news.

What does the Leo taste like?

This simple-looking Italian beef was quite possibly one of the most delicious sandwiches I’ve had in an obscenely long time. It’s been running laps around my brain, and now I want it for every meal. Breakfast? The Leo. Snack in the middle of the day? The Leo. Not even that hungry? The Leo.

Portillo’s humbly describes this sandwich as a “divinely seasoned Italian beef, baptized in gravy, and topped with your choice of sweet or hot peppers.” Every bite of this sandwich has oregano, basil, thyme and rosemary-soaked beef.

Any self-respecting Chicagoan goes extra dip with the gravy, but there are some drier options for those not looking for bread bathed in juice. As a lover of the spicy life, I also opt for both sweet and hot peppers.

The soft texture of the roll combined with the intense flavor of the tender beef and spark of the peppers created a Broadway spectacle on my tongue. I didn’t even stop to grab a napkin as the juice rolled down my wrists. I can’t speak for the Pope, but I have a feeling he’d be honored to be immortalized with such a meal.

How long will the Leo be at Portillo’s?

While I want the Leo to be available every day, I don’t think it will be a permanent menu item. Perhaps it will last through the end of May, or the end of summer. Possibly, it will be on the menu until Pope Leo XIV is no longer pope. For those unlucky few who can’t drive to a Portillo’s, check out our favorite Portillo’s copycat recipes and whip up a Leo at home.

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Cooler Recall Just Expanded to Include More Than 1.2 Million Dangerous Igloo Coolers https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/igloo-cooler-recall-may-2025/ Mon, 12 May 2025 20:29:33 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2142561 This cooler recall does not have great timing.

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It’s almost Memorial Day, and I’m looking forward to a cookout with a cold beverage in hand. I know I’m not the only one! If you plan to bring drinks to share this weekend or next, take a look at your cooler before you go. Igloo has expanded its original recall to include more than 1.2 million coolers after more reports of serious fingertip injuries.

What caused the recall?

Igloo 90 Qt. Flip & Tow Rolling Coolers have a handle that you use for towing. Since the original recall was announced in February, Igloo has received 78 injury reports, including 26 that resulted in fingertip amputations, bone fractures or lacerations.

What stores sold the Igloo coolers?

In the U.S., these specific Igloo coolers were sold at Costco, Target, Academy, Dick’s Sporting Goods and other retailers. People also bought the coolers on Amazon and the official Igloo website. The coolers were available for purchase between January 2019 and January 2025, so you may have unwrapped one as a Christmas gift this past holiday season.

How do I know if I have a recalled cooler?

This recall is only for Igloo 90 Qt. Flip & Tow Rolling Coolers manufactured before January 2024. The date is printed on the bottom of the cooler. Flip your cooler upside down and look for a circle of numbers, with an arrow pointing to the month the cooler was manufactured. The inside number is the year the cooler was manufactured.

Here’s the full list of recalled coolers:

  • Latitude 90-Quart Roller with date codes 07/2020-09/2021
    • SKU: 34692
  • Latitude 90-Quart Roller with date codes 10/2021-12/2022
    • SKU: 34785
  • MaxCold Latitude 90-Quart Roller with date codes 10/2021-02/2023
    • SKU: 34790

In February, Igloo recalled about 1,060,000 coolers in the U.S., plus 47,000 in Canada and 23,000 in Mexico. Last week, it added about 130,000 more coolers in the U.S., plus 20,000 more in Canada and 5,900 in Mexico. That brings the total to about 1.2 million coolers.

What should I do next?

Don’t use the cooler, and reach out to Igloo for a replacement handle. You can request a repair kit on this Igloo cooler website, email at [email protected] or call 888-943-5182 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern, Monday through Friday.

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I Thought Slow Cookers Were the Ultimate Life Hack—Until I Met the PowerXL StirMax https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/powerxl-stirmax-review/ Mon, 12 May 2025 19:57:27 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2138771 The PowerXL StirMax offers all the ease of a multicooker, but with the bonus of an automatic stirring and shredding paddle.

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Working from home should give me plenty of time to whip up gorgeous, chef-quality spreads. In reality, I’m a little lazy once I’m off the clock. I usually rely on my trusted slow cooker for fuss-free meals. After all, it doesn’t get any easier than dump-it-and-forget-it!

At least, that was my experience—until I tried the PowerXL StirMax. In just a few uses, it’s already replaced my old Crock-Pot on the counter. So, what is this ingenious appliance that came between me and my trusty slow cooker?

Powerxl StirmaxVIA MERCHANT

PowerXL StirMax

Look ma, no hands! This clever slow cooker braises, boils, shreds and stirs—no spoon required.

What is the PowerXL StirMax?

Despite how much I love it, there are some things my slow cooker can’t do. It can’t sear, boil, shred or stir, so it’s still up to me to perform basic prep and finish off a meal on my own. Sometimes, that extra 30 minutes makes me spring for takeout instead.

The PowerXL StirMax is a multicooker—meaning that it’s a slow cooker that also offers additional cooking styles. Sure, there are already a few notable multicookers on the market. However, the feature that sets the PowerXL StirMax apart is its clever central stirring and shredding paddle. This useful addition lets home cooks program an automatic stirring cycle for almost any of its cooking presets.

Apart from the low and slow method, its control touchpad also has presets for stews/soups, warming, steaming/boiling, risotto, sautéing and rice. There are also two additional settings specific to the machine: StirMax and BraiseMax.

Together, the settings are capable of complex dishes—think shredded pork tacos, bolognese or crispy desserts. The paddle also makes it possible to brown your beef right in the pot before adding in other ingredients—no stovetop or spoon required.

How We Tested It

Given all that the PowerXL StirMax is capable of, I knew I had a lot of testing ahead of me. The included recipe booklet offers lots of ideas, so I settled on a menu that utilized most of the cooking presets, focusing on those that included the stir function. My tests consisted of shredded chicken tacos, chili and a batch of Alfredo noodles for bolognese.

Shredded Chicken Tacos

This recipe was incredibly simple, consisting of only chicken breasts, salsa, jalapeños and salt and pepper. I set the ingredients in the pot and selected the “slow cook” setting, choosing “high” using the temperature arrows. I then set the cooking time to three hours using the time arrows.

Next was programming the “stir” setting. The pot gives four stirring presets: high, low, delay and off. I selected “delay,” which begins the stirring cycle midway through cooking. This is what I’d recommend for any shredded dishes, since it gives the meat plenty of time to cook most of the way through before breaking it up.

I left the pot to do its thing, checking in about midway through the cycle to get a glimpse of the stirring magic. And magic it was! The paddle began turning exactly midway through. At first, I was a little skeptical—it just moved the chicken breasts around the pot. But as the paddle spun, then turned and spun in the other direction, I noticed that the chicken was slowly yet surely breaking down into generous shreds.

One aspect that I love is that the StirMax has these clever “shelves” built into the corners, which encourage foods to keep moving with the paddle rather than bunching up. Even without any assistance from me, nothing burned or refused to incorporate fully. After three hours, I had a well-shredded, perfectly incorporated pot of taco-ready chicken!

Slow Cooking Chili

I was excited to try the StirMax setting, which uses two cooking functions back-to-back. Chili was the perfect test! To begin, I first selected the “StirMax” setting. Then, I programmed the machine for 15 minutes on the “stir low” setting. The pot preheats, then beeps twice and displays the timer once it’s ready for your protein. Just like the chicken, I placed my ground beef in the pot once the timer popped up on the LED screen.

The machine automatically stirred the beef for me as it browned, so I chopped my veggies and tidied up my kitchen in the meantime. When I came back to it 10 minutes later, the beef was about halfway done and well broken up. I then added some onions and corn and let the StirMax continue for another 7 minutes. After that, I added the seasonings and let the machine spin and cook until the timer ended.

Once the StirMax setting finished, the machine automatically switched over to simmer for 40 minutes. The time is adjustable, but 40 minutes was perfect for my purposes. I dumped in the wet ingredients (including tomatoes, beans and beef stock), then stepped away. In 40 minutes I had a perfect pot of chili—and you really could taste the browned beef and veggies nestled inside!

Boiling Noodles

For my pasta, I began by filling the pot 3/4 of the way with water, then added 2 tablespoons of salt. I selected the “steam/boil” setting and adjusted the “stir” setting to “high.” Then, I covered the pot and waited for it to boil. The pot indicates when it’s ready for pasta by showing the timer on the LED screen. When the timer came up, I dumped in my uncooked noodles and adjusted the time to 12 minutes, according to the noodle package instructions.

The PowerXL StirMax’s temperature and time settings are adjustable at any time, even in the middle of cooking. This came in handy when bubbles began reaching dangerously close to the lid. All I had to do was tap the down arrow within the “temp” settings a few times to bring the boil down a bit. When you touch the temperature or time controls, the LED display pulls up the current time or temperature, making it easy to adjust.

Cleaning

My favorite appliances include dishwasher-safe components, and the PowerXL StirMax is no exception. The pot is ceramic-coated and safe for the dishwasher, as is the lid and stirring paddle.

Storing

One of the complaints I have about most multicookers and slow cookers are how much room they demand on the counter and in the cupboard. The PowerXL StirMax has two components, including a square pot with a lid and a small hotplate/control panel. For me, this is perfect, since the baseplate tucks away easily without commandeering my entire cabinet. As for the pot, I stash it with the rest of my cookware.

Pros

  • Includes a paddle that shreds/stirs
  • PFAS-free nonstick ceramic pot
  • Lots of presets/temperature controls
  • Cool-touch handles
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Recipe book/detailed instructions included

Cons

  • Takes some practice
  • Only one size available

Product Comparison

The easiest comparison to make is the PowerXL StirMax vs. a traditional Crock-Pot. In terms of price, the difference is a bit staggering. While the PowerXL StirMax rings up at around $100 (or around $130 for the Plus version), a similarly sized Crock-Pot only maxes out at around $40. If you’re just looking for a budget slow cooker with a great reputation, a Crock-Pot is the obvious choice.

That said, the StirMax is more akin to Crock-Pot’s MultiMeal Multicooker, which offers similar steam, bake, sauté and steam options. The Crock-Pot option retails for a bit higher than the StirMax at around $200, and still doesn’t offer self-stirring or boil presets.

Another good comparison is the Ninja Foodi PossibleCooker Pro, which offers similar functionality, with the added bonus of an oven-safe insert. The price is also approximately the same, with the Foodi ringing up at around $150. However, again, there’s no self-stirring option. Instead, the Foodi comes with its own spoon and holder.

Final Verdict

Truthfully, there really isn’t anything quite like the PowerXL StirMax on the market—and that’s one reason why I’m smitten. As someone who spends her days side-eyeing gimmicky appliances, it’s rare that I come across something I actually love, and the StirMax is that product. Sure, it’s a multicooker at its core, but the stirring paddle is seriously groundbreaking. It’s like having a little helper in the kitchen!

Where To Buy the PowerXL StirMax

Powerxl StirmaxVIA MERCHANT

PowerXL StirMax

The PowerXL StirMax does everything a multicooker can do, but it also stirs itself. Consider it your little kitchen helper.

The PowerXL StirMax is available at several retailers, including Walmart, Amazon and Wayfair. An original StirMax retails for around $100, while the upgraded PowerXL StirMax Plus—which comes with accessories like a ladle and a steamer basket—costs around $130. At such an agreeable price, it really pays to snag this countertop cooker instead of a traditional slow cooker.


FAQs

What is a multicooker?

According to cookbook author and nutritionist Jenny Tschiesche, a multicooker is an all-in-one appliance designed to perform multiple functions including pressure cooking and slow cooking as well as other functions such as steaming, sautéing, boiling and baking.

“Whilst most multicookers will be able to pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, rice and also keep food warm until you’re ready to eat it, some will also have more advanced features,” says Jenny. “Some might have a sous vide function, some may be able to help you make yogurt, proof bread, dehydrate or sterilize. Some even have an air fryer function.”

How much does the PowerXL StirMax cost?

The original version rings up at around $100, while the PowerXL StirMax Plus—which comes with accessories like a ladle and a steamer basket—costs around $130.

Why You Should Trust Us

Our testing team has a combined decade of experience testing and evaluating everything from the best upright freezers to the best toasters. Many of us have backgrounds in kitchen and culinary careers ourselves. The remainder of our team are simply passionate home cooks who want to recommend the very best products using honest and fair testing practices. We would never recommend a product we don’t love, regardless of how popular or big the brand is.

For this piece, we also spoke to cookbook author and Nutritionist Jenny Tschiesche. Apart from her involvement with Channel 5’s The Air Fryer Diet, Jenny also provides corporate wellbeing nutrition workshops. She creates delicious and nutritious ultra processed free recipes, and educates by simplifying the science behind good eating habits. She is also the author of Modern Vegetarian Instant Pot Cookbook: 101 veggie and vegan recipes for your multi-cooker and Modern Instant Pot Cookbook: 101 recipes for your multi-cooker.

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I Bought 15 Pints to Find the Best Cookie Dough Ice Cream https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/best-cookie-dough-ice-cream/ https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/best-cookie-dough-ice-cream/#respond Mon, 12 May 2025 18:27:18 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=2139909 When it's time to indulge in a bowl of ice cream, you want every bite to count. We tried 15 pints to find the best cookie dough ice cream money can buy.

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I Bought 15 Pints To Find Cd Ice Cream Blue Ribbon Kristina Vanni For Taste Of Home

15. Blue Ribbon Classics Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough

The first thing we noticed about Blue Ribbon’s 48-ounce tub of cookie dough ice cream was the fact that it wasn’t even called ice cream. Instead, it was referred to as a frozen dairy dessert. This made us pause to check the ingredient list, and it was very telling. The first ingredient was actually buttermilk, rather than cream, and we also noticed high-fructose corn syrup and other additives.

The first spoonful was unappealing. In addition, the cookie dough was sparse and uninteresting. The large tub sold for a very reasonable $2.50, making this dessert light on the wallet.

I Bought 15 Pints To Find

14. Food Club Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Flavored Light Ice Cream

This 48-ounce tub from Food Club is described as cookie dough-flavored light ice cream swirled with cookie dough morsels and chocolate flavored chips. The label states that it has 54% less fat and 23% fewer calories than regular ice cream. Ingredients included milk fat and nonfat milk, sugar, a lot of additives, and artificial flavor.

We found it difficult to call this cookie dough ice cream. The fluffy and unsubstantial ice cream was sparsely flecked with tiny bits of cookie dough and a few chocolate pieces. We had to dig around the tub to find enough to sample. At $2.89, the ice cream was not a huge investment, but it also didn’t have much of a payoff.

I Bought 15 Pints To Find

13. Great Value Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream

Great Value is the house brand at Walmart, and the brand’s 16-ounce container was certainly a value at only $1.87. The first few ingredients were also promising: milk, cream, skim milk and sugar. Similar to the Blue Ribbon brand’s product, buttermilk is incorporated into the Great Value ice cream. Unfortunately, the label also indicated that this product contains bioengineered ingredients. The flavor was average, and the cookie dough chunks were not significant. All that to say it wasn’t our favorite.

I Bought 15 Pints To Find

12. Blue Bunny Super Chunky Cookie Dough

Blue Bunny sells a 46-ounce container of “frozen dairy dessert” rather than real ice cream. The label describes the product as a cookie dough frozen dairy dessert with cookie dough batter and cookie dough and chocolate flavored chunks. That description alone told us we shouldn’t expect real ice cream and that the chunks inside weren’t even real chocolate, but rather chocolate flavored bits. We only want the best chocolate chips dotting our ice cream!

The scoops from this tub were light and fluffy, with a ribbon of cookie dough batter as well as pieces of cookie dough. This was certainly an interesting twist that we didn’t see in any other of the options we sampled. It could have been quite delicious had the ingredients been of higher quality. Alas, this $3.99 container wasn’t worth the slightly higher price point.

I Bought 15 Pints To Find

11. Kemp’s Pillsbury Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream

The smiling face of the Pillsbury Doughboy caught our eye when we picked up a 1-1/2-quart tub of Kemp’s ice cream. If you’re a fan of the Pillsbury refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough, this ice cream is for you. We could definitely taste that signature Pillsbury flavor in this product, we just wished there was more! Fudge chunks throughout made a surprisingly fun addition. At $4.39, this was more expensive than some of the other products, but it matched the quality.

I Bought 15 Pints To Find

10. Turkey Hill Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream

The style of this product from Turkey Hill was a bit different from all the other ones we sampled. When we took the lid off this 1.44-quart container, we saw so many small slivers of chocolate that it almost looked like cookies and cream. Turkey Hill also boasts ice cream that is cookie dough flavored as well as having cookie dough chunks. While this sounded good in theory, we couldn’t really distinguish the flavor base of this ice cream from a classic vanilla ice cream.

As with others in this ranking, there weren’t nearly enough cookie dough chunks. At $3.69, this ice cream was a good value, and we liked the unique twists, we just wanted everything to be a little more substantial.

I Bought 15 Pints To Find

9. Halo Top Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Light Ice Cream

Halo Top is a light ice cream brand that tells you upfront how many calories are in the entire pint. For $3.99 and 490 calories per pint, this light ice cream states that, compared to leading ice creams, it has 74% less fat and 51% fewer calories. We were also intrigued because the label claimed that there would be “mix-ins in every bite” which is exactly what we were looking for in a cookie dough ice cream.

We quite liked the distinctive caramelized flavor of the ice cream itself, but found there weren’t exactly bits of cookie dough in every bite. That being said, this was our favorite of the light ice cream options.

I Bought 15 Pints To Find

8. Nestle Toll House Cookie Dough Ice Cream

This product caught our eye, because if anyone knows the ideal recipe for cookie dough, it’s the folks at Nestle Toll House. That also means we went in with high expectations for the quality of the chocolate chips as well as the cookie dough.

We loved the additional mini Nestle Toll House morsels scattered throughout the ice cream, but wished there were even more. When you’re recognized with having some of the best cookie dough, there’s no reason to hold back. Having made the iconic chocolate chip cookie recipe many times, we could definitely taste the flavor of that classic recipe in the bites of cookie dough, which was fantastic. At $4.39, this product was slightly more expensive than other options, but we feel the quality was worth it.

I Bought 15 Pints To Find

7. Tillamook Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream

The ice cream from Tillamook was certainly unique among all the ones we tried. The carton states, “Tillamook ice cream is made with more cream than is legally required. Our ice cream is smooth, rich and extra creamy.” From the first scoop, we found this to be absolutely true. The ice cream was light and airy while also being extremely creamy.

It was super easy to scoop, and it was made with real ingredients and fewer additives than other products. But the cookie dough bits were definitely hiding in this carton. In fact, we had to really dig just to find some. For $5.99, this was a more premium price tag for a higher quality product. If you like your ice cream very, very creamy, this one from Tillamook is for you.

I Bought 15 Pints To Find

6. Favorite Day Cookie Dough Ice Cream

Favorite Day is one of the house brands at Target, and its cookie dough ice cream was a standout in comparison to other budget-friendly generic options. The 1-1/2-quart container is a fantastic value at $3.49.

Without making the leap into the much more expensive, super-premium ice cream market, this was our favorite. The flavor of the ice cream was on point and there were significant pieces of decadent cookie dough in every bite. As a bonus, there was a recipe for cookie dough ice cream bars right on the package. We’ll be sure to check out other varieties from Favorite Day, and this ice cream will likely end up in our Target carts on the regular from here on out.

I Bought 15 Pints To Find

5. Jeni’s Ice Cream Double Dough

It’s no surprise that the highest-ranked ice creams on our list might come with a higher price tag. That’s in part because they’re made with premium quality ingredients. The $8.49 pint from Jeni’s ice cream is no exception. The brand’s outstanding products are made with grass-grazed dairy products, and the difference is significant.

In addition to the pieces of cookie dough in the Jeni’s pint, the ice cream itself is designed to taste exactly like rich and buttery cookie dough. The brand tried to mimic the experience of enjoying fluffy dough made with creamed butter and brown sugar and lightly kissed with vanilla. It’s described as an ultra-creamy brown sugar custard with caramelized depth. There is no doubt this is an incredible product.

Our only qualm is that calling it “double dough” is slightly misleading. We tasted more of the caramelized aspect of the ice cream more than we did the cookie dough. If you’re looking for the most unique and richly flavored ice cream on our list, this is the way to go.

I Bought 15 Pints To Find

4. Häagen-Dazs Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream

The name Häagen-Dazs has been synonymous with excellent ice cream for years. This 14-ounce container of chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream retails for $4.39, which is significantly less than other premium products on the market.

We loved looking at the ingredient list and actually being able to pronounce everything on the carton. Cream, milk, sugar—just the good stuff here. The signature vanilla ice cream was just as delectable as we remembered, and the bits of soft and buttery cookie dough were plentiful. There were also chocolate chips mixed throughout. It’s described as a “cookie dough lover’s dream come true,” and we couldn’t agree more.

I Bought 15 Pints To Find

3. Oberweis Super Premium Cookie Dough Ice Cream

If you want the most bang for your buck, pick up a pint of Oberweis for $4.69. Since 1927, Oberweis has been making high-quality ice cream, and it shows no signs of stopping. Out of all the products we sampled, this was the best of the best when it came to the ice cream base. Of course, the cookie dough was top-notch as well.

We loved the bit of poetry on the back of the carton. It says, “Our cookie dough ice cream awakens childhood memories, as you savor sweet spoonfuls of delectable dough, drenched in our vanilla ice cream, taking you back to that indulgent moment when you last licked the spoon clean.” That perfectly summarizes our experience eating this ice cream. It was so good, it made it hard to rank these top three without giving them all the number one spot.

I Bought 15 Pints To Find

2. Ben and Jerry’s Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough

Ben and Jerry’s claims to have originated the concept of cookie dough ice cream. The brand says, “We knew we were on to something big when we made the world’s first batch of chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream in 1984. Today the flavor still reigns among our all-time most popular concoctions.” We found that this pint from Ben and Jerry’s contained far and away the best cookie dough of the lot. The balls of perfect dough were huge and incorporated into every bite. There was no need to dig around for the yummy bits, because the cookie dough was front and center. If the most important factor in a scoop of cookie dough ice cream is the dough itself, look no further; Ben and Jerry’s is the way to go. Plus, at $4.49 per pint, the price was appropriate for the quality.

I Bought 15 Pints To Find

1. Graeter’s Cookie Dough Chocolate Chip

Taking top honors in our taste test is the cookie dough chocolate chip ice cream from Graeter’s. The carton describes the product as “French Pot” ice cream. After the first (perfect) bite, we were intrigued to learn more. Apparently, this family company has been making ice cream for five generations since 1870, and it’s clear it has perfected the craft.

Each batch of ice cream is made only 2-1/2 gallons at a time in rotating freezers. This is how the family made it 155 years ago, and how they still make it today. It’s clear that this ice cream is crafted by hand. The vanilla base was magnificent, and the cookie dough pieces were exactly what we were looking for. The addition of a chocolate fudge swirl through the center of the pint was the element that took this ice cream over the top. It came as a delightful surprise when we pulled out the first scoop, and we were in heaven from the first bite. At $7.99, it was the most expensive of all the ice creams we sampled, but we would gladly pay over and over again for something this delicious.

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Kenai Dip https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/kenai-dip/ Mon, 12 May 2025 13:32:48 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=recipe&p=2133966

Ingredients

  • 1 can (4 ounces) diced jalapeno peppers
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Optional: Sliced jalapenos
  • Corn chips, tortilla chips or assorted crackers

Directions

  1. Add peppers to a large bowl with mayonnaise, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir in cheddar cheese until well combined.
  2. Top with additional jalapenos, if desired. Serve with chips or crackers.

Nutrition Facts

1/4 cup: 236 calories, 23g fat (7g saturated fat), 35mg cholesterol, 304mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 7g protein.

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I Made Lasagna with Potatoes, and I’ll Never Go Back to Noodles https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/lasagna-with-potatoes/ https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/lasagna-with-potatoes/#respond Sun, 11 May 2025 20:27:58 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2141539 Hear me out: lasagna with potatoes instead of noodles. It's downright delicious.

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There’s more than one way to make lasagna. You may know lasagna as having layers of ground beef and pork, cheese and red sauce, but Julia Child made hers with leftovers and cottage cheese. In my opinion, it doesn’t matter what the layers are, as long as each one is assembled with love and purpose.

That’s why I didn’t immediately cry blasphemy when this recipe for potato lasagna appeared mid-scroll. I’m willing to try creative and unique adaptations, and you know what? This one is a winner.

Why You Should Use Potatoes Instead of Noodles

While I will forever love a traditional béchamel lasagna with layers of hearty meat sauce, tender noodles and cheesy goodness, sometimes a change of pace is warranted, either due to time, dietary restrictions or simply wanting to try something new.

I love potato lasagna for all these reasons and more. First, the prep and cook time is considerably shorter than that of most traditional lasagna recipes—we’re talking almost 30 minutes shorter. While you do need to roast the potatoes before assembling, you can work on prepping the other layers while the oven works its magic on the taters.

Second, potatoes are gluten-free, making this a great lasagna option for those who follow a gluten-free diet. Sure, many gluten-free pastas exist, but potatoes are an affordable, unprocessed alternative that are packed with nutrients.

Finally, cooking the same old thing can get boring. Using potatoes in lasagna offers a wonderful textural and flavor change that transforms the dish into a new yet familiar recipe.

How to Make Lasagna with Potatoes

To make a potato lasagna, put your pasta pot away and grab a sheet pan. Begin by roasting sliced potatoes coated with olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper until tender, then let cool. Meanwhile, brown your favorite Italian sausage in a skillet and mix together ricotta, bread crumbs, spinach and spices in a medium bowl.

To assemble, evenly arrange a third of the potatoes on the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking dish. Then, top with half of the spinach mixture, followed by half of the sausage. Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella over the sausage and then repeat the layering process again, ending with a final layer of potatoes and grated Parmesan cheese.

From here, the whole thing is baked uncovered in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top layer of potatoes is golden and crisp. Let it stand for a few minutes before digging in with a spatula to serve.

What I Love About Potato Lasagna

While purists will say that this isn’t a real lasagna recipe, they will have to concede that potato lasagna is delicious. It’s basically a lasagna version of  zuppa Toscana. What I love most about this recipe is the array of textures and flavors in every layer. The top layer of potatoes offers a crispy contrast to the creamy cheese, zesty sausage and tender potatoes on the inside.

Another great feature of potato lasagna is that it’s so versatile. Like all good recipes, once you master the method of using potatoes in lasagna, you can change up the other ingredients to just about anything you please. Replace the Italian sausage with ground beef in marinara for a traditional spin, or do a potato version of our Buffalo chicken lasagna. Vegetarian? Omit the sausage and draw inspiration from all-veggie lasagna. The possibilities are only limited by your imagination and willingness to try something new.

Related:

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The Starbucks ‘Teddy Grahams Shaken Espresso’ Is Like the Adult Version of the Snack https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/starbucks-teddy-grahams-shaken-espresso/ Fri, 09 May 2025 21:50:23 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2141673 This version of Teddy Grahams is not for the kids.

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If you’ve been on social media recently, you’ve probably seen some version of the Teddy Grahams shaken espresso. This Starbucks secret menu drink has taken TikTok by storm, and everyone who orders the drink seems to love it.

As an introvert, you betcha I am not in my comfort zone when I have to ask for anything out of the ordinary at Starbucks. Sometimes, I chicken out of ordering what I really want because I’m afraid the barista will get exasperated with me. But a shaken espresso that also tastes like the cutest kid’s snack ever? I knew I had to overcome my Starbucks fears for this one.

How to Order a Teddy Grahams Shaken Espresso

There are so many iterations of this drink that I’m not sure which one is the original. Most recipes I saw called for four or more pumps of sweeteners. Since I’d rather taste the coffee than all the syrup, I went with one crafted by a Starbucks employee, TikTok creator @GrahamCracker888.

Here’s what my order looked like:

  • Grande brown sugar shaken espresso with blonde espresso
  • Oat milk
  • Pump of honey blend
  • Vanilla sweet cream cold foam
  • Sprinkle cinnamon

Because this version started with the Starbucks Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso, I had a feeling I would like this Teddy Grahams version. I’ll drink anything with brown sugar in it (hello, Brown Sugar Cinnamon Cortado).

It didn’t actually taste like the Teddy Grahams I grew up snacking on after school until I really mixed in all the cinnamon. Even then, the espresso made it a more bitter version of the snack. Honestly, though, I liked it that way! If I’m drinking a sweetened espresso drink, I still want to taste the espresso.

10/10, would order again.

Tips for Ordering Secret Menu Drinks

To be honest, this was my first time ordering anything from a secret menu. I went in with notes written in my phone’s Notes app and read them directly to the barista. That felt way more comfortable than asking if the barista knew how to make a “Teddy Grahams shaken espresso.”

The secret menu isn’t official, and baristas are already working at the speed of light to get orders out. If you want to try this drink, bring a list of ingredients or order with the app. It’s easy to customize a drink that way, plus it’ll be ready for pickup when you get to the shop.

Related:

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I Just Discovered That McDonald’s Plans to Drop Something Brand-New This Year https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/new-mcdonalds-drinks-2025/ https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/new-mcdonalds-drinks-2025/#respond Fri, 09 May 2025 21:25:53 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2142046 I'm honestly shocked by this development.

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Being on the hunt for fresh fast-food news is a thrill. Recently, I got wind of a change to the McDonald’s menu. Remember when CosMc’s appeared in 2023? This beverage-focused concept restaurant has wild drinks like the Sour Cherry Energy Burst and Popping Pear Slush, along with lattes, cold brew coffee and shaken espresso.

Now those drinks will finally appear on the menu at regular McDonald’s locations!

What’s new on the menu?

I’m no stranger to CosMc’s. In fact, I did a lengthy review of the chain’s menu this past January. While each drink has its merits, there are some that I hope to see more than others. I’m talking about you, French Toast Galaxy Latte, Pistachio Swirl Shaken Espresso and Sprite Moonsplash.

Between espresso drinks, energy boosters and shakes, CosMc’s is a fantasy of flavors fit for the adventurous! McDonald’s hasn’t confirmed which drinks will be coming to the menu, but I have some theories. The Chai Tea Latte and Turmeric Spiced Latte tend to collect high praise, and so does the Churro Cold Brew Frappe.

On the fruity side of the menu, the Sour Cherry Energy Burst and Island-Pick-Me-Up Punch both have the right amount of odd attraction to make people yearn for a sip. McDonald’s has yet to burst into the energy drink scene, so something fruity and caffeinated on the menu wouldn’t be a surprise.

If I had to choose a drink to add, it would be the Sprite Moonsplash. It already goes perfectly with the signature Sprite. I’d also get on my hands and knees for a Matcha Latte. McDonald’s, I’m begging you.

When will CosMc’s drinks officially begin to appear?

We know CosMc’s drinks will appear on menus in 2025, but we’re not sure exactly when. With so many iced drink options, though, we hope to see new drinks hit the menu sometime during the summer!

Related:

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This 3-Ingredient Americano Is the Only Drink You Need This Summer https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/americano-cocktail-summer-drink/ https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/americano-cocktail-summer-drink/#respond Fri, 09 May 2025 20:22:22 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2140420 This Italian Americano cocktail will have you living "la dolce vita" in no time.

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The perfect summer cocktail is cold, refreshing and easy to make. Let’s face it—when it’s hot out, the last thing you want to do is fuss around with a bunch of ingredients and measurements. The three-ingredient Americano cocktail hits all the right marks. It’s a touch bitter and more complex than fruity drinks, yet the soda keeps it fun and light.

What is an Americano?

Though it shares a name with an espresso drink, the Americano cocktail has nothing to do with its caffeinated cousin (aside from its Italian origins). Credit for the creation of this Italian cocktail goes to Gaspare Campari, a bar owner in Milan, Italy. Yes, as you might have guessed, he is also the creator of the Campari aperitif! The eponymous Italian liqueur has a bitter flavor that’s unmistakable. It’s rounded out with herbal, orange and floral notes.

Campari created his Americano cocktail in the 1860s as a riff on another popular cocktail he served at Caffe Campari, called a Milano-Torino. The Milano-Torino is made with equal parts Campari (from Milan) and sweet vermouth (from Torino). The addition of soda water turns a Milano-Torino into an Americano. The resulting cocktail is sweet, bitter, bubbly and incredibly refreshing.

How to Make an Americano Cocktail

The ingredient list for an Americano cocktail is simple. For the alcohol, you’ll need a bottle of Campari and a bottle of sweet vermouth. While Campari is fairly shelf-stable, you’ll want to use the freshest possible sweet vermouth for the best flavor. Because sweet vermouth at its heart is a fortified wine, it begins to lose its flavor within a month of opening (even when stored properly in the refrigerator). For the soda water, use unflavored sparkling water or, for added flavor, use sparkling mineral.

An Americano is typically served in a highball glass, but if you prefer less soda water, serve it in a lowball or rocks glass. To make the cocktail, fill your serving glass with ice. Then add 1 to 1-1/2 ounces of Campari and an equal amount of sweet vermouth. Top with soda water, and stir gently to combine. For a little pizzazz, garnish with an orange peel twist.

Americano Cocktail Fun Facts

  • Although he is most associated with the martini (shaken, not stirred!), the first cocktail that James Bond ever orders is an Americano in Casino Royale (1953). The suave spy preferred his Americano be made with Perrier.
  • The Americano is known as the father of the Negroni cocktail, which replaces the soda water with gin.

Related:

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Our Favorite Air Fryer Toaster Oven Now Comes in a Smaller Size (And It’s Cheaper, Too!) https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/breville-smart-oven-air-fryer-compact/ Fri, 09 May 2025 18:25:31 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2141587 No counter space? No problem. The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Compact offers more versatility than the average air fryer, at half the size.

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Here at Taste Recipes, we’re big fans of air fryer toaster ovens. These countertop cookers create delicious dishes just as well as their full-size counterparts. Plus, they take up less space than having a dedicated air fryer, toaster and convection oven. Over the years, we’ve tested more than 10 of these convenient appliances, including the splurgy and feature-loaded Breville Smart Oven.

According to tester Nicole Doster, who has used the Breville oven nearly every day for three years, it’s the ideal balance of performance and convenience. However, the $400 price tag and substantial cubic foot interior make it a tough sell.

Enter: the new Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Compact, which packs all that precious power into a smaller, cheaper package.

Air Fryer Toaster OvenVIA MERCHANT

Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Compact

Packed with 10 different cook settings and with all the functionality of its larger cousin, the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Compact is perfect for small kitchens.

What is the new Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Compact?

The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Compact is essentially a smaller version of the Breville Smart Oven. While the original oven measures in at 21.4 x 17.3 x 12.7 inches, the newer, smaller version is much more petite at 15.7 x 16.9 x 10 inches. It boasts a similar build, complete with a glass viewing door.

Much like its larger counterpart, the Breville Compact boasts 10 smart oven settings: Air Fry, Fries, Wings, Bacon, Crispy Reheat, Toast, Bagel, Pizza, Broil, Bake and Roast. It also includes one of Nicole’s favorite features from the original, which is its Element iQ System. This clever technology tells the oven exactly where to concentrate heat based on the cooking mode, resulting in crispy chicken tenders and tender, moist cookies.

The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Compact also utilizes super convection speeds that heat up food faster and make it crispier than many other ovens we tested. And, if you find that your fries are still limp after the timer goes off, the “a bit more” button adds additional cooking time to any preset.

"We know that air-frying reigns supreme in American households and that folks are busier than ever, so we were laser-focused on packing as much as we can into our latest oven while keeping it in a compact size. From toast for breakfast to reheating leftovers for maximum crispiness at lunch to air-frying a quick and healthy weeknight meal, we intentionally looked to deliver more versatility, so cooks at home can maximize time and space."
Catherine Ruspino
Breville's Senior Vice President, Product & Solutions, Americas

The biggest difference between the original oven and the compact oven is the size. The original boasts a behemoth cubic foot interior that fits a 14-pound turkey, a 13×9 pan, a 5-quart Dutch oven and a 12-cup muffin tin. On the other hand, the newer, smaller oven offers a 0.5 cubic foot capacity. This makes it ideal for smaller servings like four slices of toast, an 11-inch pizza, a 4.5-pound chicken or one pound of French fries.

The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Compact also comes with a fleet of appropriately sized accessories, including a broiling rack, roasting pan, air fryer basket and an oven rack.

Both our product testers and editors were wowed by the larger oven in our tests, and we expect similar results from the smaller option. The original Breville Smart Oven has held up fantastically throughout the years—Nicole still swears by it in 2025!

Where to Buy the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Compact

Air Fryer Toaster OvenVIA MERCHANT

Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Compact

Make toast, air fry wings and more—all in a smaller, wallet-friendly package.

Just like the original Breville Smart Oven, folks craving crispy foods and cookies on-demand can snag the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Compact at most major retailers. These include Macy’s, Sur La Table, Williams Sonoma and directly on Breville’s website.

The oven retails for around $250—about $150 less than the larger version. It’s the perfect all-in-one for the home cook trying to save on money and space!

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What Is ‘Cheerwine,’ and Why Do Southern People Love This Soda? https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/what-is-cheerwine/ https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/what-is-cheerwine/#respond Fri, 09 May 2025 18:24:59 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2141292 Cheerwine, y'all: It's a sip of southern charm. Despite its name, the bubbly drink is all soda—no alcohol.

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It’s hard to find regional foods that are only available in that region. You can find Wisconsin’s deep-fried cheese curds and New Jersey’s Taylor roll all over the country now. But somehow, regional sodas are going strong. Personally, I’m a fan of Michigan’s spicy Vernors ginger soda, Big Red soda in Texas and Seattle’s own Rachel’s Ginger Beer, which has a kick like a mule.

If you’re from North Carolina, your home-state beverage of choice is almost certainly Cheerwine, aka the “nectar of North Carolina.” And as someone who’s reviewed everything from 7Up Shirley Temple to warm Dr Pepper to, uh, Hot Take Dr Pepper, I had to try it.

What is Cheerwine?

What is Cheerwine? First off, it’s not a wine, though its burgundy color definitely looks like red wine when poured into an elegant glass. There’s no alcohol in Cheerwine. It’s a cherry-flavored, nonalcoholic soft drink that’s been produced by the same North Carolina family since 1917.

It’s such a home-state taste that North Carolina brides and grooms have been known to incorporate the drink into weddings, whether as a favor for guests or to inspire the design of the groomsmen’s socks!

What does Cheerwine taste like?

If you didn’t grow up with Cheerwine, you might expect a sharp, tart cherry taste, but Cheerwine is smooth and rich. It’s not as harsh as the black cherry soda we had at birthday parties as kids. (Looking at you, Shasta.)

There’s just a touch of spice that keeps the drink lively. Plus, it’s made with real cane sugar, not high-fructose corn syrup.

While Cheerwine didn’t bubble and fizz when I popped the bottle cap, there’s a delightful buzzy, carbonated edge to the drink, and it carries the lightest scent of fresh fruit. There’s almost a creamy, dessert-like taste to it—I can imagine it working as a secret ingredient in brownies or as an ice cream topping.

When my daughter’s friends discovered I had Cheerwine in the house, they raided my fridge so fast, I had to go out and buy more!

Where to Buy Cheerwine

If you’re in and around North Carolina, Cheerwine is likely everywhere. But you might be surprised at how accessible it is in other parts of the country, too.

Try Googling “Cheerwine” and your city name; I was able to find it sold in individual 355-ml bottles in the refrigerated section of my Seattle grocery store. You can also check candy and specialty soda shops, World Market or order on Cheerwine’s site. Raise a toast, y’all, to those few regional treats that have stayed true to themselves.

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I Tried This Viral Trick for Perfect Mimosas, and I’ll Never Make Them Another Way Again https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/mimosa-ice-cubes/ https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/mimosa-ice-cubes/#respond Fri, 09 May 2025 15:32:53 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2141668 This viral mimosa hack is guaranteed to impress.

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The mimosa is a two-ingredient wonder that’s nearly a prerequisite for brunch. The perfect mimosa looks different to everyone, though—we all have our preferences when it’s time to decide on the orange juice to sparkling wine ratio.

If, like me, you’re a fan of champagne-forward mimosas, @socialsami‘s viral mimosa hack needs to be on your radar.

What is the mimosa hack?

Instead of pouring OJ into a flute and topping it with a good champagne, we’ll freeze the orange juice with a few orange slices. The orange juice ice cubes keep your mimosa beautifully chilled while allowing the OJ to gradually melt into the sparkling wine for a more subtle citrus taste. Orange slices boost and brighten this effervescent drink’s zesty orange flavor, and the combo is so pretty!

@socialsami The PERFECT HOLIDAY MIMOSA Always wanted to make these orange “roses” and its so simple and in my opinion, as it melts, is the perfect amount of orange juice. They also keep your drink cold the whole time! Would you try them? Tag someone who needs to make these for you! #mimosarecipe #mimosas #mimosatime #icecubes #icecubetray #orangejuice #cocktailrecipes ♬ original sound – Samiya Jakubowicz


To try this at home, halve an orange, then cut each half into slices. Nestle three slices into the well of a large ice cube tray, one on each side, then pop one in the middle to form a rose. Gorgeous, right?

Bigger ice cubes mean a slower melting rate to keep your drink chilled while steadily infusing the sparkling wine with orange juice. Grab a carton of OJ or squeeze it fresh. Fill each well with orange juice, then stick the tray in the freezer. Once frozen, drop an ice cube into a coupe glass and top with bubbles.

Is this mimosa hack worth the effort?

Absolutely! It’s absurdly easy and looks stunning. The only downside is the time it takes to freeze the orange juice (about four to five hours for the bigger cubes), so prep them a day or two ahead of time. Using a large ice cube tray means the orange juice ice cubes should last you for at least two cocktails. These mimosas were made for bridal shower brunches, holiday breakfasts or any occasion that demands something a little festive.

If you’re willing to go the extra mile, I highly, highly recommend juicing clementines or tangerines, which have a sweeter, riper profile compared to oranges. Blood oranges are another fabulous variation, especially when you need a drink pairing for Christmas brunch.

I also tested this mimosa hack with tropical fruit juice, which was a total home run. And since it’s nearly strawberry season, strawberry mimosas are next on my to-try list, but you can bet I’ll play around with seasonal flavor combinations all year long.

Related:

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I Tried a Pizza-Style Version of the Viral Onion Ring Chips, and It’s So Dang Tasty https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/onion-ring-pizza/ https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/onion-ring-pizza/#respond Fri, 09 May 2025 12:45:03 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2141618 Pepperoni makes everything more delicious, especially when it's baked into an onion ring pizza.

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When my husband and I first tasted the viral recipe for onion ring chips, we were immediately hooked. All that melted cheese and crispy onions … I must confess that we ate that entire pan in one sitting. We wouldn’t have thought that it could be possible to make onion ring chips even more savory and delicious, but now we’re hooked on this new version.

Pepperoni onion ring pizza has the same base of crisped onions and melted Parmesan cheese. That base is then topped with sliced pepperoni, Italian seasoning and shredded mozzarella cheese. Oh my gosh, it is good.

What are onion ring chips?

Onion ring chips are one of the latest onion-based TikTok recipes to go viral (the onion boil and French onion pasta are two other favorites). The baked, savory snack is made by layering very thin slices of onion over grated Parmesan cheese on a baking sheet. In the oven, the onions fry in the melted cheese and fuse into a sheet that’s crispy at the edges and tender through the middle.

I first heard of this pizza variation from creator Jessica Hirsch on her TikTok account CheatDayEats. Since she doesn’t specify the ingredient amounts, I used our viral onion ring chips recipe as the starting point for our onion ring pizza.

Ingredients for Onion Ring Pizza

  • 7 ounces grated fresh Parmesan cheese
  • 2 to 3 small white onions, peeled and cut into thin slices (1/8- to 1/4-inch thick)
  • 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons Italian spice blend
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 16 thin slices of pepperoni
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

How to Make Onion Ring Pizza

Step 1: Layer the ingredients

Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a 17×12-inch rimmed baking sheet with parchment. Spread the grated Parmesan cheese into an even layer over the parchment. Lay the onion slices in a single layer on top of the cheese with the sides touching, but not overlapping. Brush or spray the tops of the onions with a light layer of olive oil. Sprinkle the Italian spice blend, salt and black pepper over the onions. Finally, arrange the pepperoni slices over the top.

Step 2: Bake the onion ring pizza

Place the pan in the oven and bake the onions for 15 minutes; the cheese will be browned at the edges and the onions browned on top. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top of the onions and pepperoni. Bake the onions for another three to four minutes until the mozzarella is melted. Move the pan to a wire rack and let the onions cool for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Serve the onion ring pizza

The onion ring pizza tastes best when it’s served warm. Slice it into pieces, or tear off pieces to eat. Serve pizza onion ring chips with dipping sauces like ranch dressing or marinara sauce.

Onion Ring Pizza Tips

What type of onion is best for onion ring pizza?

This recipe calls for white onions, but other types of onions will work too. Try yellow, purple or Spanish onions instead. For a mellower, sweeter flavor, make the onion ring chips with sweet Vidalia or Walla Walla onions (they’re the ones that make Tennessee onions so good!). What’s most important is to choose small onions that will fit in your mandoline (if you’re using one)—that way more onion slices can be squeezed into the pan.

How do I make my onion ring pizza crispy?

A couple of steps help ensure the onion ring chips crisp up as much as possible. First, make sure to cut the onions into very thin slices; they should be no more than 1/8- to 1/4-inch thick. A mandoline slicer is the easiest way to make consistent, thin slices. Also, add just a light coating of oil on top of the onions (olive oil cooking spray works well). Too much oil will make the onions soggy.

What should I top the onion ring pizza with?

To give the pepperoni pizza onion ring chips a spicy kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, sliced jalapenos or a few banana pepper rings. For a meat lovers version, add crumbled, cooked Italian sausage or diced ham to the top along with the pepperoni. You can also add a light drizzle of marinara sauce on top of the chips. Because the onion ring chips are very thin, avoid wet toppings like pineapple chunks or too much sauce; the excess liquid could make the dish soggy and prevent crisping.

Related:

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Molly Baz Wants to Make Sure Your Next Sourdough Loaf Isn’t ‘Flat as a Pancake’ https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/molly-baz-sourdough-bread/ Fri, 09 May 2025 08:43:46 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2141242 Expert tips from an expert chef.

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Molly Baz is a source of pure joy on my Instagram feed. The cook, recipe developer and New York Times-bestselling cookbook author first came into my life via the Bon Appétit YouTube channel. She’s since moved on from BA and is now doing her own thing: publishing cookbooks, hosting a podcast and teaching us how to make sourdough.

She’s also developed a brand-new recipe to celebrate her foray into the world of sourdough baking. It’s Sourdough Garlic Butter Bread, and yes, I’m drooling.

I had a chance to catch up with Molly and chat all things sourdough. I’ll admit that I have always been too intimidated to try to make my own loaf! But after our conversation, I feel ready to tackle this task head-on.

How did Molly get into baking sourdough?

“The first loaf I ever made was dismal. Flat as a pancake. But you know what? It still tasted good,” Molly said. “The first few loaves were learning experiences.” It’s helpful to know that even someone as accomplished as Molly—the author of two NYT-bestselling cookbooks—also struggles with overcoming sourdough mountain.

For the uninitiated, baking sourdough is more complicated than a standard homemade loaf of bread. Sourdough requires a “starter,” which is a mixture of flour and water that ferments and gives loaves that uniquely tangy, utterly delicious taste. “A friend gifted me a bit of her very old and storied sourdough starter. It sort of spun out from there, and the next thing I knew, I was proofing multiple breads on the daily in my home kitchen,” says Molly.

What are Molly’s tips for making perfect sourdough bread?

Aside from having the correct bread-making tools, here are some techniques straight from Molly to improve the outcome of your loaves:

  • Always bake with an active starter: Your starter should double in size within 6 to 8 hours after feeding, or it won’t be strong enough to produce lofty loaves. Using starter that is very much alive will ensure tender, well-risen bread.
  • Refrigerate your dough for stronger flavor: You can opt for a longer fermentation, transferring your dough to the refrigerator and baking the next day. The best time to stop and chill your dough is after shaping your loaf. The next day, pick up where you left off, letting the dough sit on the counter for an hour or two before proceeding.
  • A good ratio for feeding your sourdough starter is 1:1:1: That is, equal parts flour, water and starter. You can perform small feedings of your starter (about 30 grams of each element) when you’re not baking to keep your starter “at the ready.”
  • Don’t forget about the windowpane test: This is the best way to tell whether or not dough has had a sufficient number of folds and stretches. To do this, flatten a small piece of dough between your fingers. Gently pull on opposite ends to stretch out the middle. Dough that doesn’t tear easily—and appears as translucent as a windowpane—indicates strong gluten formation.
  • Keep things tense: Create surface tension while shaping the dough so your bread will have the right structure, crumb and rise. You can achieve this by using less flour while shaping—too much flour will encourage the dough to slide around. Less flour means that you’ll have some friction on the work surface to help pull the dough taut.
  • Cover dough to proof: Molly uses Stasher’s Stretch Lids, which are reusable silicone lids that stretch to cover any size bowl. Instead of trying to wrestle with plastic wrap while your hands are full of flour, just pop one of these on, and poof! You’re on your way to prooftown.

I asked Molly if she had any more advice for me before I get started on my sourdough journey. “Take the pressure off!” she said. “Your first loaf isn’t going to be perfect, and that’s completely fine.”

It’s almost like she knew that I’m a recovering perfectionist. Well, with Molly Baz’s blessing, I’m certainly feeling more inspired to dive into the world of sourdough!

Related:

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Quinta Brunson’s Go-To Comfort Food Costs Less Than $2 https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/quinta-brunson-comfort-food/ Fri, 09 May 2025 08:19:26 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2141628 A relatable queen!

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Quinta Brunson is booked and busy. You probably know her best as the creator, executive producer, writer and star of the hit TV show, Abbott Elementary. She’s also fresh off hosting Saturday Night Live for the second time and absolutely slaying the red carpet at this year’s Met Gala.

I imagine that wearing so many hats on the set of Abbott can get stressful. When I get stressed, I absolutely reach for the foods that will wrap me in a giant hug and let me decompress a bit. So when I found out that Quinta has the same comfort food as I do, I got excited. Especially because it’s only $1.59 at Target!

What is Quinta Brunson’s go-to comfort food?

In an interview with The Strategist, Quinta lists nine things she can’t live without. Like any writer, she said her MacBook Air is always in her bag. And of the three food items that make the list, one of them stands out: Annie’s Shells & White Cheddar macaroni and cheese. “It’s the best comfort food after a long day of filming,” she says.

Apparently, Quinta’s partner was the one who introduced her to the life-changing product during the pandemic. “I was so confused as to why he would be this excited about this specific brand of mac and cheese,” she said. “But…it’s so good. It’s so easy and quick to make, and filling and just, I don’t know. It’s so warm. We’ll curl up on the couch with a bowl of it.”

Shout out to Quinta’s partner for showing her the light. The Shells & White Cheddar variation has a special place in my heart as well. It’s obviously perfect straight out of the box, but it’s also a great blank canvas if you need a quick dinner idea. My favorite mac and cheese add-ins are frozen peas and some canned tuna for a deliciously easy spin on tuna noodle casserole. Quinta, if you’re reading this, give it a try!

Related:

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The One Dish Scarlett Johansson Orders at Every Single Restaurant https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/scarlett-johansson-chicken-wings/ https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/scarlett-johansson-chicken-wings/#respond Thu, 08 May 2025 22:43:08 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2141586 ScarJo relies on this go-to order to size up new restaurants.

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When I was a kid, I knew what I liked to eat. For years, I resisted trying anything else. No matter what restaurant my family took me to, I would order the chicken fingers, always with a side of honey mustard. I was basically the Gordon Ramsay of chicken tenders.

Like me from ages 7 to 10, celebrities are also creatures of habit, though celebs typically have a more compelling rationale than being a picky eater. Even fashion icon Anna Wintour eats the same thing for lunch every day. Scarlett Johansson, the A-list actress best known for her roles in films like Lost in Translation, The Avengers and Her, is one of those stars who sticks to routine when it comes to food.

What does Scarlett Johansson order at every restaurant?

In multiple interviews Scarlett has given over the years, the Oscar-nominated star has divulged her love for chicken wings, a dish she loves so much she orders it at every restaurant, no matter where in the world she finds herself.

“I try chicken wings wherever I am,” Scarlett told host Stephen Colbert in a 2017 Late Show interview.

In addition to being a comforting, easy-to-find dish in most places, she also said it’s how she assesses the restaurant’s quality. She specifically tends to go for Buffalo wings paired with blue cheese dressing.

For his part, Stephen admitted to doing the same thing, though he also tends to pair his wings with a Caesar salad, another dish he uses as a culinary barometer.

I can’t argue with Stephen here, as I also am known to order a Caesar salad—with a side of fries—whenever I’m feeling indecisive while staring at a menu. In my book, it’s a classic, seemingly simple dish that can separate a good restaurant from a great one.

But back to Scarlett. The Black Widow star loves chicken wings so much she’s also admitted to them having a prominent place on her rider, i.e., the list of items celebrities require anyone booking them for an event or appearance to have on hand.

“I think there’s chicken wings and LaCroix and that’s basically it,” Scarlett said of her rider during a 2019 appearance on the popular interview series Hot Ones.

Despite these two items making up the bulk of her rider, though, Scarlett did offer a word of advice for anyone looking to follow her lead by pairing them together: “I will say that hot wings and carbonated beverages, that’s a bad combo.”

Related:

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99-Year-Old Sir David Attenborough No Longer Eats This One Thing https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/what-does-sir-david-attenborough-eat/ Thu, 08 May 2025 22:18:17 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2141574 The legendary biologist made a major change to his diet.

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Sir David Attenborough has one of the most famous voices of all time. If you’ve seen any nature documentaries in the past 50 years, you can probably hear it right now. In fact, I urge you to imagine that he is narrating this story, because I think that will make for a much more enjoyable read.

Today marks Sir David’s 99th birthday, an important milestone for the biologist. “I see no reason whatsoever why I can’t live past 100,” he told the Sun in 2017. “Earth has enough wonders to make more than three Planet Earth series.” His pursuit of longevity is tied to his passion for documenting all that our planet has to offer.

As an environmentalist, he’s given considerable thought to the kind of food that he eats. And in order to live to 100 (and beyond!), he eliminated something from his diet.

What food does Sir David Attenborough no longer eat?

In the past few years, he has given up eating red meat altogether. That means no beef, lamb, pork, veal or venison.

“I do eat cheese, I have to say, and I eat fish. But by and large, I’ve become much more vegetarian over the past few years than I thought I would ever be,” he said in an interview.

Forgoing meat altogether or simply cutting back on meat has gained a lot of popularity over the last 20 years. In fact, “Meatless Monday” began in 2003 as a partnership between advocate Sid Lerner and the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health.

There are a lot of really tasty meat substitutes available at the grocery store, and they make for a delicious way to cut back on meat while still enjoying familiar recipes. And of course, tofu remains one of the cheapest and easiest ways to swap out animal-based protein in a meal.

I eat meat, but I also love the convenience of cooking with tofu. In fact, I am constantly converting my friends into tofu enthusiasts—one of my favorite recipes is a Buffalo tofu salad with extra crispy pieces of tofu doused in Frank’s Buffalo sauce. If Sir David Attenborough ever comes over to my house, I will make this for him!

Related:

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These Are the Best Kinds of Tinned Fish to Fill Your Pantry With https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/tinned-fish/ Thu, 08 May 2025 22:11:54 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=2140427 From humble tuna sandwiches to more elaborate seafood pastas, there are so many ways to enjoy trendy tinned fish.

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On Sale
Cantabrian AnchoviesVIA MERCHANT

Is there anything more refreshing for a summer lunch than a crunchy Caesar salad? While I’m glad I didn’t know there was anchovy paste in the dressing when I was a kid, it definitely doesn’t weird me out now. To ramp up the flavor in a simple Caesar salad (or the wrap version), add anchovies. Flake the small fillets over the romaine and top it with an extra grating of Parmesan for a more protein-dense meal.

For dinner, use up a tin of anchovies in shrimp puttanesca. Taste Recipes senior editor and chef Lindsay Mattison says it’s the way to go if you’re not used to the fish’s bold flavor. Fishwife anchovies are a great product to start with. They’re wild-caught and packed in extra virgin olive oil. Put the olive oil in the tin to good use by tossing it with the pasta.

Foie Gras Of The Sea Icelandic Cod LiveVIA MERCHANT

If you’re new to tinned fish, cod liver probably doesn’t sound 100% appetizing. But what does sound appetizing is “seacuterie,” the term for a seafood-themed charcuterie board that Lindsay introduced me to. I have a feeling I’m going to be making those all summer, and cod liver paté will definitely be making an appearance.

To make a quick paté, buy a couple tins of cod liver, spoon the fish and the oil into a food processor, then add a squeeze of lemon and any aromatics you like. Chives, garlic, oregano and shallots would all work well. Pulse the ingredients until they have a smooth consistency, then transfer the paté to a serving dish. Place it on a snack board with plenty of crackers, toasts, crudités, pickles and high-quality grainy mustard.

Avocado toast is now pretty much synonymous with brunch, but let me make a case for smoked herring toast! While a good smoked herring (like Wildfish Cannery’s version) is tasty enough to munch on on its own, it’s even better when blended with cream cheese and smeared over slices of crusty French loaf or Dutch oven bread. Sprinkle capers and chopped red onion over the top for a bold, briny garnish.

Mackerel is similar enough to tuna that you can easily swap the two in a sandwich or salad. Fans of salmon burgers can follow the recipe for salmon patties, substituting mackerel for salmon. Add it to your favorite pastas to make them a bit more upscale. Patagonia Provisions has two fun takes on this basic fish: roasted garlic mackerel and lemon caper mackerel. Either would take Mediterranean shrimp pasta to new heights; fully replace the shrimp with the mackerel, or use a combo of the two.

Ekone Smoked MusselsVIA MERCHANT

“Whenever I want a more affordable tinned seafood, I go for Trader Joe’s lightly smoked mussels,” says Taste Recipes food writer and culinary expert Val Goodrich. She prepares the mussels by scraping them into a bowl with their juice, squeezing in juice from half a lemon, and adding 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of chili crisp. Mix the ingredients together, then dig in with sturdy potato chips.

Tinned mussels also work nicely in seafood mac and cheese. Fold a can or two into the mix when you add the cooked pasta, lobster and shrimp. Of course, the TJ’s mussels are ideal price-wise, but if you’re serving this for a special occasion, Ekone smoked mussels are worth the splurge.

Original Ekone Smoked OystersVIA MERCHANT

Speaking of Ekone, this brand’s smoked oysters are a go-to in Taste Recipes editor Lesley Balla‘s house. She and her husband love adding them to snack boards with other accoutrements like different types of olives, crackers and charcuterie. Because tinned oysters require no shucking, they also make an easy addition to seafood chowder or seafood salads.

Jose Gourmet Razor Clams In BrineVIA MERCHANT

Named for their narrow, razor-like shells, razor clams make a great snack straight out of the tin. Lesley recommends the José Gourmet razor shells in brine if you’re looking for a splurge (the art alone is worth it!). Add salt, coarsely ground black pepper and a squeeze of lemon juice for the simplest snack ever.

Take it a step further and prepare a lemon caper sauce to toss the clams in. Melt a couple tablespoons of butter in a skillet over low heat. Then add minced garlic, a squeeze of lemon and a tablespoon of capers (or less—I always err on the side of more capers because I love their brininess). Finish off the sauce with fresh herbs like dill, chives or parsley. To incorporate tinned razor clams into a whole meal, use them to elevate a hearty cioppino .

If you can’t find razor clams, regular canned clams are cheaper and easier to source at most groceries. Try them in clam fritters or make a clam dip to see if you like them before breaking into more adventurous types of clams.

Smoked Coho In Birch SyrupVIA MERCHANT

Canned salmon recipes are about as ubiquitous as canned tuna recipes. Cheap canned salmon can be found at most grocery stores—just look for the puck-sized tins of StarKist or Chicken of the Sea. For snack spreads or salmon quiche, opt for adventurous tinned salmon like Wildfish Cannery’s smoked coho in birch syrup or habanero smoked coho. If you like making poke bowls at home, peel back a tin of salmon instead of taking the time to cook fresh salmon—it’ll save you so much time on weeknights.

No one likes to be packed in like sardines on public transit, but packed sardines in an artful tin are a different story. When I need a quick lunch, I like to make a lemony pasta with Matiz sardines in olive oil. Matiz is a top pick for Lesley too, but she also recommends Wild Planet’s Wild Pacific Sardines for those who like to stock up at Costco.

Lindsay—who also likes to serve sardines in pasta—keeps things simple with this equation: Fish + oil + lemon zest + garlic + Parmesan. Cook your favorite pasta shape. While the noodles cook, saute minced garlic and lemon zest with the sardines and their oil. Add capers or shallots during this part if you like. Toss the cooked noodles with the fish and oil, then top the dish with a generous grating of fresh Parmesan.

Smoked Rainbow TroutVIA MERCHANT

The smoked rainbow trout from Fishwife was made to be folded into cream cheese for a spread or party dip (one that everyone will want the recipe for). Smoked trout paté will be your best bet for spreading on crostini or other little appetizer toasts. For something more hearty, like what you’d put in the center of a veggie tray, fold the trout into a blend of cream cheese, mayonnaise and sour cream. Add tanginess with lemon juice and horseradish, and sprinkle in herbs or spices to your liking.

Tuna FilletsVIA MERCHANT

Last but not least is the ever-classic canned tuna. There’s nothing fancy here; StarKist or Wild Planet are easily sourced at grocery stores. Peel the tab back on the can, flake the fish into cold tuna salad, or serve it warm in a tuna melt. Our melt recipe calls for brioche buns, but my favorite way to eat it is with buttery toasted sourdough bread and a big slice of fresh tomato. For a splurge, try José Gourmet’s tuna fillets in olive oil.

You can also dish up a throwback recipe like tuna noodle casserole. This is a great way to serve the fish if you want the protein but aren’t big on the taste. A pro tip from Lindsay: “When it comes to tuna, oil-packed is more flavorful and water-packed is drier.” Try oil-packed for casseroles and water-packed for salads and melts.

Tinned Fish FAQs

Can you eat tinned fish straight out of the can?

You can absolutely eat tinned fish straight out of the can. The ones that come packed in curries, tomato sauces or lemon juice are particularly delicious as a standalone snack. Sprinkle in coarsely ground black pepper and a bit of salt or a squeeze of lemon if you’re not into the fish completely on its own.

Should you drain canned fish?

This depends on the recipe. For dishes like pasta or salads, it’s perfectly fine (and even recommended!) to toss the noodles or greens with the oil from the tin. It’s full of flavor from the fish, and could even have additional flavors like lemon, chile, smoke, tomato or brine. Certain dips or seafood patties (think salmon or tuna) would probably work better with drained fish.

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Feta Bruschetta https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/feta-bruschetta/ Thu, 08 May 2025 13:54:59 +0000 http://origin-www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/feta-bruschetta/

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 10 slices French bread (1 inch thick)
  • 1 package (4 ounces) crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 to 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 large tomato, seeded and chopped

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°. In a small bowl, combine butter and oil; brush onto both sides of bread. Place on a baking sheet. Bake until lightly browned on top, 8-10 minutes.
  2. Combine the feta cheese, garlic, basil, red wine vinegar salt & pepper; sprinkle over toast. Top with tomato. Bake 8-10 minutes longer or until heated through. Serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

1 each: 296 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 547mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 3g fiber), 8g protein.

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How to Prevent Soggy Pie Crust https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/how-to-keep-pie-crust-from-getting-soggy/ Thu, 08 May 2025 02:44:41 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=listicle&p=2138622 Ready to bake the perfect pie? These tips on how to prevent soggy pie crust will have you serving up evenly-baked, golden-brown pies.

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Pick the Right Pan

It all starts with the pie pan. Choose a glass pie plate or metal pie plate with a dull finish (vintage pie pans are a great option). Glass heats up gradually and allows your crust to bake evenly. Plus, its transparent material makes it easy to keep an eye on your crust so you can remove it once it’s golden and crispy. Just don’t forget to grease your glass pie dish before using it.

Metal heats up quickly and allows your crust to bake evenly, although it’s a bit more difficult to keep track of your crust’s progress since you can’t see through the pan. Since aluminum transfers heat the quickest of any other pie pan, we suggest using an aluminum pan to achieve the golden-brown color you want.

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Blind Bake Your Crust

Blind baking is a technique that requires partially or fully baking a pie crust before adding any filling. This helps your crust bake evenly and helps you avoid soggy-bottom pies.

First, place the dough in a pie plate and flute the edges. Line the unpricked shell with a double thickness of heavy-duty aluminum foil. If desired, fill it with dried beans, uncooked rice or pie weights. The weight will keep the crust from puffing up, shrinking or slipping as it cooks. Bake the crust at 450°F for eight minutes. Remove the foil and bake for 5 to 6 minutes longer or until the crust is dry and crisp. Cool on a wire rack, then remove the beans.

Test Kitchen Tip: Wondering which fat to use in your pie crust? We tested butter, shortening and lard to see which works best. We found that the best fat to use for a flaky, delicious pie crust is butter.

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Use an Egg Wash

Once you’ve prebaked your pie crust, brush the bottom and sides of the crust with egg wash, then reheat it at 400° for four minutes to set the glaze. This creates a seal between the crust and the filling so that your crust stays crispy and golden after the filling is added.

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Add an Extra Filler

This step is optional. Once you’ve prebaked your crust and brushed it with egg wash, consider adding a dry ingredient—such as cornflakes or breadcrumbs—that acts as a barrier between the crust and the pie filling. No matter what kind of pie you’re baking, this extra filler will prevent the gooey pie filling from making the crust soggy.

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Cut Slits in the Top Crust

For double-crust fruit pies, cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. This will prevent moisture from building up in your pie and creating a soggy crust. Plus, there are lots of ways to make decorative pie crusts that allow for this moisture to ventilate.

It’s also worth using a pie bird. Pie birds have a hollow center that steam can escape through for optimal ventilation. If you want to bake pie just like Grandma, a pie bird is the way to go!

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Bake on a Baking Sheet

Line a metal baking sheet with parchment paper and bake your pie on it. Metal sheet pans will absorb heat and transfer it to the bottom of the pie, ensuring even browning. Plus, the parchment paper will catch any pie filling that spills, preventing a gooey mess on the floor of your oven.

Lastly, bake your pie on the lowest rack in your oven. The heat will transfer to the bottom of the pie quicker than the top of the pie, crisping the bottom crust while the top browns more slowly.

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Made In Just Released a Portable Grill—And It’s the Perfect Tool for Tailgaters https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/made-in-grill/ Wed, 07 May 2025 20:12:13 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2140655 The new, USA-assembled Made In Grill uses a variety of fuel sources and flat top inserts for fully customizable outdoor cooking.

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When the weather warms up, the smell of seared meats and smoky barbecue fills the air. Grilling season is upon us, which means it’s time to break out the charcoal grill for some home-cooked eats.

But if your old grill needs some TLC, why not pick up a replacement that offers the best of both worlds: grilling and griddling? That’s exactly what one of our favorite U.S.-based cookware brands promises with the newly released Made In grill.

MadeIn portable grill on a tan and white backgroundVIA MERCHANT

Editor's Pick

Made In Grill

The Made In grill is compatible with the brand's large collection of grilling pieces, including the best-selling carbon steel griddle.

What is the Made In grill?

While Made In is best known for its well-performing stainless steel cookware, the brand also offers things like carbon steel pans, baking slabs and knife sets. The Made In grill is the brand’s first foray into outdoor cooking.

The grills are made in the U.S. and are compatible with both a carbon steel griddle and the included stainless steel grill grate. This two-in-one tech gives you the option to flip hot dogs on the grill and perfect your smash burgers on the griddle. Plus, the whole thing is compact. This makes it perfect for toting to the tailgate or placing on a small patio—espeically compared to a full-size Weber or Blackstone.

Made In Grill Features

The Made In grill isn’t just any ordinary portable cooker. It comes with tons of features that make on-the-go grilling a summertime mainstay. While it’s designed for charcoal, an adjustable firebed allows for varying heat levels. This makes it compatible with hardwood or other types of charcoal like binchotan.

As robust as it is travel-friendly, the Made In grill comes with silicone-sleeved handles on either side for easy transport. It boasts a modest 19.6-inch by 10.5-inch cooking surface area, so it’s perfect for small groups or batch cooking. Thanks to its lightweight yet hearty carbon steel construction, it’s also incredibly sturdy yet weighs in at only 35 pounds.

Our favorite feature, though, is the retractable grate, which folds flush against the side of the grill to make room for a griddle. Say hello to camping breakfasts of eggs and pancakes—no pots, pans or additional room required!

"We pride ourselves on our material expertise and craftsmanship. Bringing that from cookware to heat source was a natural extension to our performance grilling collection. This piece was designed to deliver the same high quality sears and heat control you would expect from Made In, in a portable size for the chef on the go. Inspired by many backyard grilling days, camping trips and beach excursions with the griddle, we’re so excited for you to experience this at home."
JAKE KALICK
MADE IN CO-FOUNDER

Where to Buy the Made In Grill

Made In Grill 2 Toh Affiliate Courtesy Madein AseditVIA MERCHANT

Editor's Pick

Made In Grill

The Made In grill works with charcoal, hardwood, and binchotan so it's compatible with a variety of grilling styles.

The Made in Grill is now available on the Made In website for $499. There are also sets available at a slightly higher price point that include a griddle and grill press (retailing for $679) or a grill press and grill tools ($839). You can also snag handy cover, prep mat and carbon care add-ons thlinkat keep the grill looking its best.

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Kansas City Barbecue Sauce https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/kansas-city-barbecue-sauce-2/ Wed, 07 May 2025 19:02:18 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=recipe&p=2133927

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup finely chopped white onion
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups ketchup
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup molasses
  • 1/4 cup cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt, divided
  • 1/2 tablespoon coarsely ground pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Directions

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, cook until tender, 4-5 minutes. Add garlic; cook one minute longer. Add remaining ingredients; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a low simmer. Cook until flavors have melded, 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Facts

2 tablespoons: 66 calories, 1g fat (1g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 396mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.

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Baked Beans Recall: 4,515 Cases of Popular Baked Beans Recalled in 23 States https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/baked-beans-recall-may-2025/ Wed, 07 May 2025 17:19:46 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2141170 Walmart, Meijer, Hy-Vee and other grocery stores sold the beans.

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It appears that grilling season is off to a rocky start. First, tomatoes were recalled due to a salmonella risk. Now, one of summer’s most iconic sides is facing a recall: baked beans.

On May 5, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that Yellowstone Brown Sugar Molasses Baked Beans have been recalled due to an undeclared allergen. Here’s what we know about the recall, including which grocery stores sold the beans.

What caused the recall?

Vietti Food Group issued a press release on May 2 to say that 4,515 cases of its Yellowstone Brown Sugar Molasses Baked Beans contain soy. The labels on these cans did not say that soy was one of the ingredients in the beans, which could be dangerous for people with soy allergies.

Someone with a soy allergy (or intolerance) could experience serious or life-threatening reactions if they eat these baked beans.

What stores sold the baked beans?

This specific variety of Yellowstone baked beans was distributed to Walmart, Hy-Vee, Meijer, Food City and Associated Wholesale Grocers.

The beans were sold in 23 states: Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, and Virginia.

How do I know if I have a recalled can of baked beans?

It’s easy to figure out if you have a can of recalled beans. The 15-ounce cans of Yellowstone Brown Sugar Molasses Baked Beans have “Best if Used By Feb 17, 2028” printed on the bottom.

What should I do next?

If you have a can of the recalled baked beans, don’t eat them. The company has encouraged customers to return cans to the grocery store for a refund. If you have eaten the beans and feel ill, reach out to your doctor ASAP.

For other questions about the recall, contact Vietti Food Group directly at 513-682-2474 or email [email protected].

The post Baked Beans Recall: 4,515 Cases of Popular Baked Beans Recalled in 23 States appeared first on Taste Recipes.

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Turkey Club Sandwich https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/turkey-club-sandwich/ Wed, 07 May 2025 13:54:44 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=recipe&p=2128641

Ingredients

  • 4 slices whole wheat bread, toasted
  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 6 ounces sliced deli turkey
  • 4 thick-sliced applewood smoked bacon strips, cooked
  • 2 large lettuce leaves
  • 4 tomato slices

Directions

  1. Spread mayonnaise on one side of each slice of toasted wheat bread. Layer two slices with turkey, cooked bacon, lettuce leaves and tomato slices. Place other two slices of bread on top to make two sandwiches.

Nutrition Facts

1 sandwich: 510 calories, 29g fat (6g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 1663mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 30g protein.

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Aldi Just Brought Back the Frozen Meal That Makes Me Feel Like I Have My Life Together https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/aldi-fish-and-chips-may-2025/ Wed, 07 May 2025 07:41:49 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?p=2140426 I love this cod most ardently.

The post Aldi Just Brought Back the Frozen Meal That Makes Me Feel Like I Have My Life Together appeared first on Taste Recipes.

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Listen, cooking is fun. I love the creativity it offers me. There is something so satisfying about taking a handful of ingredients and transforming them into a meal. It’s like taking a bunch of words and stringing them together into a story—say this one, for instance.

But even I, someone who loves cooking, get tired of doing it. Sometimes the recipe I excitedly bookmarked on Sunday is the last thing I want to make on Wednesday. (I’m human!) And try as I might, I can’t quite shake the guilt that I’m “giving up” by preparing a frozen meal.

This is where my favorite affordable grocery store, Aldi, enters the narrative. Aldi knows that life is unpredictable, and a delicious and satisfying freezer meal that doesn’t taste like it was ever frozen is the solution. Instead of feeling guilty or defeated, I feel like I’ve been immediately transported to a delightfully cozy English pub.

What is the Aldi frozen meal that makes me feel like I have my life together?

It brings a tear of joy to my eye when this is back in stock: Fremont Fish Market British-Style Fish and Chips. There are two versions, one is haddock and the other is cod. They are both excellent, and you should immediately drive to Aldi and buy them.

You might be surprised to hear that this is the meal that makes me feel like I have my life together, but let me explain. This frozen meal helps me remember that anything is possible! I can’t say that about most foods, and yet this Aldi frozen dinner comes together in about half an hour and costs $5.49.

I know that frozen fish and fries are no grand invention. But this product is not like a regular frozen meal; it’s a cool frozen meal. Here’s why:

  1. The fish is beer-battered, which gives it an incredibly light and flaky coating. It’s more elevated than your typical frozen breaded fish, and tastes much better.
  2. The batter actually gets crispy in the oven. The directions instruct you to cook the fish on a wire baking rack above a baking sheet, so air can circulate. The result? Crispy fish that isn’t getting soggy from baking in a pile of its own grease.
  3. The ratio of fish to chips is perfect. It’s a great serving size and feels exactly like a portion you’d get while dining out.

Basically, just add a side of mushy peas and a pint of English beer, and you’ll feel like you’re in an English pub. Or, if you’re like me, you can pretend that you moved to London and your Mr. Darcy-lookalike boyfriend ordered takeaway from the local chippy because he knew you were having a bad day. When was the last time a frozen meal inspired you to dream?

How long will they be available?

Like any great Aldi find, “here today, gone tomorrow” is always the mentality. The fish and chips should be back in stores beginning on May 7, and only the masterminds at Aldi HQ know how long they will be in stock. If you happen to frequent my Aldi store, then good luck getting one before I buy them all. Now I’m off to find a good chest freezer!

Related:

The post Aldi Just Brought Back the Frozen Meal That Makes Me Feel Like I Have My Life Together appeared first on Taste Recipes.

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Tyler Smith’s Taco Marinade https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/tyler-smith-taco-marinade/ Tue, 06 May 2025 21:55:55 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=recipe&p=2140846

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons ground cumin
  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice

Directions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl (or Mason jar) and mix completely.
  2. Use 2 ounces of marinade for any piece of meat (chicken, beef, pork, seafood, etc.) and let it sit in the marinade for 30 minutes in the refrigerator before cooking.
  3. Marinade can be stored in the fridge for up to 7 days.
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Elise Jesse’s Citrus Margarita Popsicles https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/elise-jesse-citrus-margarita-popsicles/ Tue, 06 May 2025 21:33:21 +0000 https://www.tasteofhome.com/?post_type=recipe&p=2140838

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup tequila blanco
  • 4 ounces Cointreau
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons simple syrup
  • 1 cup orange juice or juice from 5 to 6 oranges, like Cara Cara
  • 1/2 cup fresh-squeezed lime juice (about 4 to 5 limes)
  • 1 splash grenadine syrup
  • 3 to 4 mandarin oranges and limes, thinly sliced into rings
  • 8 Dixie cups (3 ounce size)
  • 8 wooden Popsicle sticks
  • Optional: Margarita salt, Tajin seasoning

Directions

  1. Squeeze your lime juice and orange juice and set aside. Cut your extra limes and mandarins into thin slices and set aside.
  2. Grab your shaker and pour in your juices, tequila, Cointreau and simple syrup, and shake it well to mix the margarita. Pour the drink mix into 8 Dixie cups, leaving a little bit of room at the top. Pour a small dash of grenadine into each cup.
  3. Poke a Popsicle stick through each lime or mandarin slice and gently lay it over the top of the liquid. Freeze for 10-12 hours, top with margarita salt and/or Tajin. Serve frozen.
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