Let's Dish - May 2025

If you've talked to me in the library, you know that I am a huge fan of movies and TV. Something else I'm very passionate about (and need to make an excuse to do more) is cooking & baking. I love trying new foods and recipes and sharing that with loved ones. With this blog series, you get to come along for the ride. So, let's dish!

This month I was taken in by a recent book on our new shelf: Pretty Delicious by Alia and Radwa Elkafas. I had not heard of their blog, Food Dolls, before, but the cover looked great and I'm always happy to eat Mediterranean food. The book starts off like most: recommendations for kitchen gear and a list of common ingredients for the particular cuisine. This one also gives tips on keeping your pantries, fridge, and kitchen as a whole organized. There are also tips for making your kitchen your own and aesthetically pleasing. And, as promised, the book is filled with simple recipes for all times of the day.

It was another month of narrowing down what I wanted to try. I ultimately went with the Lemony Chicken Soup with Rice and the Middle Easter-Style Beef Pot Roast.

Both were really simple to make. I am pretty judgmental with my pot roast. I've had some dry ones in my time, but I've also had some really good ones. This one fell into the "really good" category. It was so tender that it fell apart as I took it out of my Dutch oven. It makes a TON (8-10 servings), so it's great for a family, sharing with loved ones, or lots of leftovers. I ate mine with some mashed potatoes, other serving suggestions include rice and crusty bread.

The soup is a nice alternative to a standard chicken noodle. There wasn't too much rice. The recipe also makes a ton to share or use as leftovers (6 servings). Its refreshing with the lemon (I added an extra lemon because I love the flavor so much).

I have a ton of recipes bookmarked, but I think the one I'm looking forward to trying soon is the Middle Eastern Cottage Cheese Salad. I love tomatoes and cottage cheese in the summer and this just adds a little more to a well-loved snack.