Appetizers

This was supposed to be a slow-roasted tomatillo salsa. I had the tomatillos, the jalapeños, the whole plan mapped out in my head. But I … Read more

I was standing in the fluorescent-lit dairy aisle last Thursday when a wave of tangy, spicy heat drifted past the yogurt section — and suddenly … Read more

My brother-in-law Dave swore he hated ranch dressing for three whole years. He claimed it tasted like old socks and regret, a sentiment he repeated … Read more

The power went out halfway through making dinner last Tuesday, leaving me in a pitch-black kitchen with a bag of flour and a profound sense … Read more

The Friday night lights were blinding, but the smell of charcoal and spilled lager was what really mattered. There used to be a tailgate spot … Read more

I was standing in the hardware store aisle, of all places, holding a shower caddy and trying to remember if I needed lightbulbs, when the … Read more

The Friendsgiving was in six hours and I’d completely forgotten I’d volunteered to bring an appetizer. Everyone else would be bringing their signature dishes — … Read more

The fall harvest party was in six hours and I’d completely forgotten I was supposed to bring the appetizer. Everyone else would be bringing elaborate … Read more

I had never made homemade pretzels. Not once. It seemed like one of those things you buy at the mall or order at a German … Read more

There used to be a sports bar called The Red Zone on the corner of 4th and Main that made the most incredible game-day spread. … Read more