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13 Editor-Approved Spring Fashion Trends on My Wishlist

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One of the beauties of working in the fashion industry is that I can justify my many long, online shopping sessions as “research.” When I spend hours scrolling Shopbop, Revolve, and Mytheresa, it’s totally fine because I’m gathering insights on editor spring fashion trends and getting inspiration for future collections. Whatever helps me sleep at night, right?

Plus, I’ve become somewhat of a fashion almanac, if you will, for my friends and family, utilizing my semi-photographic memory to curate outfits that precisely match their envisioned looks for various events. If there was a “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire” episode focused on trending fashion, I’d walk away with a chunk of change and head straight to Saks Fifth Avenue.

image above from our interview with Mary Ralph Bradley

Clothing Rack Editor Spring Fashion Trends

But alas, I am no millionaire, so the urge to “add to cart” has turned into an extensive wishlist full of shoes, clothes, jewelry, and more. With spring finally here and summer right around the corner, I’m looking to refresh my wardrobe with a few new pieces, and the following list is exactly what I’d wish for if I found a genie in a bottle.

These 13 editor-approved spring fashion trends have occupied my mind for far too long to not see the light of day, so I’m putting this research to good use and sharing it with you. May my wishlist inspire your spring wardrobe, so that I can keep telling myself that an hour spent shopping is an hour well spent.

You heard it here first: Onitsuka Tiger Sneakers will be the it-sneaker of the year. With a similar profile to the Adidas Sambas, the Mexico 66 sneakers are at the top of my wishlist for being a more low-key option. Any colorway of these sneakers will make you stand out in a sea of Sambas, while still feeling on trend and in-style. If your sneaker game needs an upgrade, I highly recommend checking these out.  

How to style: I’ve touched a bit on the wrong shoe theory while discussing 2024 fashion trends, but the theory states that an unexpected shoe choice instantly creates a more fashion-forward outfit. Following this trend, I’d pair these sneakers with high socks and a DÔEN sundress. However, if juxtaposition isn’t your style, these sneakers pair perfectly with jeans, boxer shorts, and sweats!

Another good option:

My fashion wishlist is typically a revolving door, but this Prada mini skirt has had a permanent spot on the list for a good year at this point. When buying anything designer, I think about two things: practicality and uniqueness. It needs to stand the test of time and surpass trends, but also needs to offer me something that I can’t find at a lower price point. This skirt checks every single box. It’s a classic color and silhouette that will never go out of style, yet the pouch detail is unparalleled. Even though I’m a sucker for a purse, I could walk out of the house empty handed while wearing my credit card and lipgloss. Doesn’t get more epic than that. 

How to style: The way Enrica styled this mini skirt in her Instagram post has me taking major notes. I love the idea of dressing down such a high-fashion piece with a denim or cotton shirt and bringing it all together with a simple heel. Bonus points if the shirt hangs out of the bottom of the skirt. 

Another good option:

One of the most stunning and artfully crafted pieces of jewelry I’ve seen in a while, the Mejuri Mosaic Dome Ring has been in my cart for weeks. Though not explicitly shown in the photo, this ring features six different colored and shaped gemstones scattered over the gold dome. I’ve been super into chunky jewelry as of late, and my self control is wearing thin. I might need to make this mine sooner rather than later!

How to style: The beauty of the Mosaic Dome Ring is that it goes with everything. The multicolored gemstones will pair well with any color you’re wearing, or serve as a subtle pop of color when in neutrals. Wear alone on your finger or stack with other solid dome rings. 

Another good option:

I’m a sucker for good denim. My constant struggle is that I own too many jeans and not enough tops, but alas, here is another pair of jeans on my wishlist. The shape plays on the horseshoe denim trend but features two side cutouts for a flattering and slimming fit. Not only are these slits fashionable, but they are functional, too—keeping you cool with airflow on hot summer days.

How to style: The best thing about these jeans is that you can style them how you would any pair of jeans, with the added stunning details automatically elevating your fit. While a white tee and jeans might seem boring, a white tee paired with these jeans is anything but. Plus, they are the perfect length to show off a fun sneaker or sandal choice. 

Another good option:

If you obsessively added charms to your charm bracelet growing up like me, you’ll love Logan Tay’s charm necklaces. The brass chains and unique charms give these necklaces a very vintage feel and add the perfect pop of color to any jewelry stack. Handmade and accurately marketed as “jewelry you’ll never take off,” Logan Tay’s charm necklaces will be my summer staple.

How to style: These chunky, vintage-looking necklaces will add interest to just about any outfit, from a white tee to a sundress to a bikini. While a charm necklace can definitely hold its own, I love layering in other pieces and letting the whole stack be the star of a simple outfit. On the other hand, if you’re wearing a colorful outfit, opting for a charm necklace with a similar color story easily pulls the whole look together.   

Another good option:

I came across this dress in a boutique in Australia and it reconfirmed that love at first sight exists. This dress has a 100% chance of making heads turn and starting conversations. It’s literally a piece of art, with the gorgeous print designed in collaboration with artist Alan Berry Rhys. If you love the print but the price point of the dress feels a bit high, the scarves from the same collection might scratch the itch.

How to style: This is truly my dream summer vacation dress. If you have a tropical trip or wedding on your calendar, wear this and win best dressed. I love being a maximalist with color, so I’d pick accessories that match one of the secondary colors like green, yellow, or blue for a bright and festive look. 

Another good option:

The influencer boxer pant trend is still going strong, and this silky pair from Handover lives rent-free in my mind. Not only does Handover have the best marketing, attributing each style to a fictional ex-boyfriend, but each pair is artfully made-to-order in Spain. Heads up, due to the handmade nature of these pants, production time runs from 25-30 days—but I’m positive the wait will be worth it.

How to style: Boxer pants are all I want to wear these days, because you feel like you’re wearing pajamas, but look styled and on-trend. While Handover has plenty of wild prints for the out-of-the-box dresser, this classic silky pair is my ideal summer pant because of the versatility. Paired with a white tee and sneakers, these boxer pants are a chic and comfortable travel outfit, but once you arrive at your destination and throw on a pair of kitten heels, you’re ready for an easy summer night out. 

Another good option:

If I could snap my fingers and have a rainbow of Dancerina Flats in my closet, I would. I already own these ballet flats in black and light pink, and yet the silver, light yellow, red, and mesh versions haunt my dreams. With a similar look to The Row’s ballet flats, these are the comfiest flats on the market. Seriously—I’m talking zero blisters on the first wear. Running true to size, you might as well just order two colors at once to save yourself the trouble of placing a second order, because trust me, you will. 

How to style: I style these ballet flats with just about everything in my closet. It’s rare that a pair of shoes works perfectly with jeans and a sweater for errands and a mini dress for date night, but these flats pass the test with flying colors. I personally love juxtaposing these feminine shoes with a more casual outfit, but every once in a while it’s fun to embrace my inner ballerina and wear it with a girlier look.

Another good option:

If you follow me on TikTok, you know that I love a good blazer, and I am dying to add the Helsa S Curve Blazer to my collection. It has the vibe of an oversized blazer, but adds a feminine flare by showing off your waist. While you can’t go wrong with the black, I have my eye on the Khaki shade for chilly LA summer nights. 

How to style: Like I said, if we’re connected on social, you know that blazers are my go-to and I’ve gotten pretty creative with how I style them. Of course, this blazer will look effortlessly chic with blue jeans and loafers, but I’d love to style the S Curve Blazer with a silk maxi skirt and heels, or if it’s cold enough, micro shorts and tights. 

Another good option:

I first saw this set on Sofia Richie and immediately had to have it in my closet. The top/jacket is an actual showstopper. Crafted in Portugal, the unique shape of the shoulders, collar, and peplum create a flattering silhouette. Paired with the coordinating pants, it becomes a seamlessly chic look that’s perfect for any event. Available in multiple colors and patterns, don’t sleep on this set. I own it in a golden yellow color and think I need it in about five more shades. 

How to style: This set obviously looks incredible when styled together with a simple pair of heels and some fun earrings, but to get more use out of the pieces, I love styling them separately as well. The jacket can be worn unbuttoned over a white tank with jeans and sandals for a fun, yet casual spring outfit, while the pants pair perfectly with a button down and slingbacks for a more professional setting. The possibilities are endless, and you will not regret this investment. 

Another good option:

Button-up vests are one of my favorite things about summer style, so this sweater vest feels more like a need than a want. American Vintage is a French label that just opened its second US retail location in Malibu, and everything the brand touches turns to gold. The patch detail on this sweater vest will give people the impression that you spent hours digging through clothing bins at your local flea market, but the quality will feel designer. 

How to style: Channeling last year’s coastal grandmother trend, I’d pair this sweater vest with white linen pants and sandals to be cool and comfortable all season long. I also love the creative way it’s layered in the image above for cooler nights, making this a year-round staple. 

Another good option:

With sunnier days on the horizon, it’s more important than ever to wear your SPF and protect your skin. But, by no means does that mean you have to skimp on style. I love adding a vintage-inspired hat to my outfits in the summer, and no one does vintage-inspired quite like Cherry LA. My boyfriend has quite a few Cherry hats in his rotation and it’s about time I get one of my own. 

How to style: This Cherry hat is the perfect way to protect your face in style this summer. I’m envisioning this hat joining me on trips to the farmer’s market in overalls, to the beach in bikinis, and to work in boxer shorts and a sweater. Keep this hat by your front door, because you’ll want to throw it on every time you leave the house. 

Another good option:

I may be biased because I had a hand in creating this set, but the Workout Cardigan and Drills (leggings) from Daily Drills are a must for your next hot girl walk. The set comes in Mint Green and Mist blue, AKA the perfect shades for summer. The buttery-soft leggings have quickly become my favorite in my closet, and the workout cardigan is the light layering piece we all need for spring. 

How to style: All of Daily Drills’ pieces are designed to be styled together, and when worn as a set, the workout cardigan and leggings are about as chic as activewear gets. Layer the cardigan over your favorite sports bra or workout tank and pair the leggings with high socks and New Balances to be best dressed heading to and from your workouts. 

Another good option:





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Do Your Workout Clothes Contain Endocrine-Disrupting Microplastics?

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Do Your Workout Clothes Contain Endocrine-Disrupting Microplastics?

Written by: Denise John, PhD

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Published on: May 9, 2024

Do Your Workout Clothes Contain Endocrine-Disrupting Microplastics?

Hypothesis and Emerging Research

Hypothesis and Emerging Research

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Some early observations support this concept (or parts of the theory), and there is scientific interest in elucidating exactly what’s at work.

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24 Dinner Party Menu Ideas to Get You Excited About Hosting

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Recently, a good friend called me in a near-panic: “I’m having eight friends over tomorrow night—what in the world should I make for that many people?” I’ve been there, and it can be tough to think of dinner party menu ideas that are elevated and elegant for your evening crowd. Especially if you don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen and/or lose your mind in the process.

But thanks to the fact that I started my career in catering (combined with the countless dinner parties I’ve thrown over the years), I’ve assembled quite a collection of dinner party menu ideas to feed a crowd that check all my required boxes. All of these dinner party recipes are:

  • Crowd-pleasing dishes that almost everyone loves.
  • Leverage large-batch cooking, like a sheet pan or grill, so that I’m not laboriously sautéing 16 individual fish fillets or frying 12 eggs to top salads.
  • And most importantly, I can do almost all the prep in advance so that by the time my guests arrive, I can join the party with them.

I divided this post into recipes that I make for dinners with 4-6 guests (due to the cooking techniques, or the fact that they incorporate pricier ingredients), and the recipes that are really easy to double or triple to feed a true crowd. These leverage larger cuts of meat, build-your-own components that let guests adapt to their dietary needs, and less expensive ingredients so your party budget doesn’t get out of control.

The next time you find yourself hosting an evening get-together and wondering what to make, bookmark this post for 24 easy dinner party menu ideas to feed a crowd. Trust me: all these recipes will leave your dinner guests happy, satisfied, and waiting for when their next invite arrives in the mail.

Dinner Party for 4-6 Guests

Ratatouille-Style Roasted Vegetable Pasta

Ratatouille-Style Roasted Vegetable Pasta

What makes it party-ready: At first glance, a pasta dish might not seem special enough for a dinner party meal. But this isn’t just any pasta recipe. While it’s easy to prep and cook, it makes the most of a few flavor-packed ingredients that’ll take your meal up a notch. Plus, the pop of green it brings to your table rivals any floral centerpiece. Major wow-factor.

Make it a feast:

Roast Chicken With Tomatoes, Lemons, & Cilantro Salsa Verde

What makes it party-ready: Everyone loves roast chicken. This one has just enough interesting and surprising flavors to make it feel dinner party-worthy. Those charred lemons—yum! Watch me make it start to finish.

Make it a feast:

Easy Homemade Pizza

What makes it party-ready: My grilled pizza is truly made for a party. But I’ll admit, it’s a little chaotic to make for more than six people. That’s why I usually bring it out at more intimate gatherings where everyone can get involved. (This pizza party was one of my favorite gatherings ever.) The recipe above is for my homemade pizza dough. Make several dough balls in advance—I usually plan on three doughs for six people—let them rest at room temp for a couple hours before party time and proceed with your favorite pizza toppings and method of cooking.

Make it a feast:

Grilled New York Strip Steaks With Chimichurri

What makes it party-ready: This is probably mine and Adam’s most frequently-made meal for a dinner party. It’s incredibly easy to pull together and fun for everyone to hang out down by the grill while we make it. I usually buy one large New York Strip for every two people. Slice into 1″ pieces and serve on a big platter surrounded by grilled tomatoes. Since this is a pricier cut of meat, it feels really special and I typically reserve it for a smaller dinner party. For a bigger gathering, an affordable cut of steak like flank is a great option, too. (You’ll just want to marinate it beforehand and adjust the cooking time.)

Make it a feast: 

Hot Honey Salmon With Coconut Crunch

Hot Honey Salmon With Coconut Crunch

What makes it party-ready: These salmon bowls are a great meal for a summertime gathering on a hot day. They feel so light and refreshing, but still really special. For a girls’ night, I love to set out all the toppings and let everyone build their own bowls. Not only is it a fun way to get people interacting, but it also allows guests with other dietary restrictions to pick and choose their ingredients.

Make it a feast: One of the beautiful things about this dish is that it’s truly a complete meal in a bowl. The only thing I’d add is refreshing scoops of mango sorbet (or mango-basil ice cream) for dessert!

Simple Zucchini Pasta

Simple Zucchini Pasta

What makes it party-ready: Sometimes, a party just needs pasta. That said, it’s not ideal for serving a super large group since it does need a bit of last-minute attention (plus, you’d need a really big pan for tossing it all together). This streamlined zucchini pasta combines simple ingredients into one luscious and luxurious bowl that everyone loves.

Make it a feast: A loaf of crusty bread, plus a simple salad with fresh greens (and a bottle of pinot gris).

Orange-Chili Glazed Pork Tenderloin With Carrot Pesto and Grilled Carrots

Orange-Chili Glazed Pork Tenderloin With Carrot Pesto and Grilled Carrots

What makes it party-ready: I make this one when my mother-in-law comes over since she loves pork tenderloin. This dish is perfect with a double dose of carrots. It’s a great one to make outside on the grill, but in the cooler months, you can also roast it all in the oven. Pork tenderloin is one of those cuts of meat that is made for serving a crowd. You could easily scale this recipe depending on your guest count, then slice it up and arrange on a big family-style platter.

Make it a feast: The carrots are a super satisfying side dish on their own, and the pesto adds richness and flavor, so you’re almost already in feast territory with just this recipe. For a dinner party, I’d add some herb-roasted potatoes or a simple kale salad.

Grilled Salmon with Stone Fruit Salsa

Grilled Salmon with Stone Fruit Salsa

What makes it party-ready: This is one of those super satisfying recipes that feels way fancier than it is. And in my experience, salmon is one of the most universally loved fish dishes. Bonus: it’s foolproof! Grilling salmon on a cedar plank is an easy way to infuse this fish with smoky flavors while ensuring it stays tender and moist. Plus, that stone fruit salsa adds the perfect bit of sweetness to complement the charred fish.

Make it a feast:

  • I like serving this salmon with a side of herbed quinoa or wild rice. The fluffy texture and nutty flavor offer a satisfying contrast.
  • For a lighter side, toss together a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette to add some tang to the mix.
Sheet Pan Halibut With Italian Salsa Verde and Asparagus

Sheet Pan Halibut With Italian Salsa Verde and Asparagus

What makes it party-ready: Here is one of those super-impressive meals that also happens to take very little effort. Why? Because halibut is one of the best fish ever. Plus, the fact that this is made on a sheet pan allows you to easily make several fillets at once. It has a light, clean flavor and buttery, flaky texture, so it doesn’t take much for it to be delicious. I simply roast mine with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then top it with a bright Italian salsa verde.

Make it a feast: Add some potatoes that can roast right along with the fish on a separate baking sheet. Or, you can opt for a little more green and serve it with a big kale salad.

Grilled Yogurt-Marinated Chicken with All the Herbs

Grilled Yogurt-Marinated Chicken with All the Herbs

What makes it party-ready: If you haven’t tried marinating your chicken in Greek yogurt, this recipe will change that fast. It’s beyond easy (and inexpensive) to throw chicken thighs in a delicious marinade and grill for a crowd. Fresh herbs and honey add a bit of zest and sweetness that complement this juicy chicken.

Make it a feast: Serve this protein with a side salad or crispy roasted potatoes for an all-around simple and delicious meal that everyone will be gushing about.

Sweet & Spicy Braised Short Ribs

Sweet & Spicy Braised Short Ribs

What makes it party-ready: Everyone always asks me for this braised short rib recipe after dinner parties, and they’re always shocked to learn how simple it is. I like to add some fresh herbs over the top along with red onion and lemon zest to brighten up the plate. Because presentation matters.

Make it a feast:

Spicy Tuna Tostada with Avocado and Crispy Shallots

What makes it party-ready: Toastadas are a go-to for a few reasons whenever I’m looking to impress my guests with easy dinner party menu ideas. They’re customizable, so everyone can pick and choose what they want to add. This recipe is also a winner for gluten-free guests. Simply swap in a Siete tortilla baked in the oven for a grain-free and gluten-free tostada. 

Make it a feast: This Mexican chopped salad is just hearty enough to round out your meal.

Dinner Party Recipes to Feed a Crowd

Damn That's a Keeper Winter Vegetable Lasagna

Damn That’s a Keeper Winter Vegetable Lasagna

What makes it party-ready: Lasagna can lean a little labor-intensive, but take heart: this dish can be made in advance. In my experience, all variations on the classic lasagna are winners—but this spin is my favorite take yet. It’s hearty and warming without any meat, and the filling makes the most of everyone’s favorite fall veg, butternut squash. The flavors are rich and complex—and if you’re feeling up to it, the recipe also shows you how to make the pasta yourself. It’s a dish worth bragging about.

Make it a feast: Cut the lasagna’s richness with a bitter side, like this radicchio salad. Or, if you want to send the fall flavors home, this apple and arugula salad is one of my favorites.

Danielle Walker's Turkey Chili Verde

Danielle Walker’s Turkey Chili Verde

What makes it party-ready: When the colder months hit, I love serving dishes that evoke elevated comfort. They’re simple and warming, but just special enough. This flavor-packed chili comes courtesy of Danielle Walker, our go-to for paleo-friendly, delicious recipes. If you want to make it vegetarian, simply omit the turkey and bump up all the veggies. Danielle suggests either diced zucchini or minced portobello mushrooms. Yum!

Make it a feast: Salty tortilla chips or your favorite cornbread are ideal for dipping. Top each bowl with sour cream or Greek yogurt, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime

Slow-Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Slow-Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

What makes it party-ready: Even those who aren’t well-versed in Indian cuisine will love chicken tikka masala. Although I frequently make this recipe on a busy weekday for our family, it’s also perfect for a big feast. (Triple or even quadruple the recipe—your slow cooker can handle it!) Plus, the fact that you make this several hours before dinner and it cooks away while you’re free to do other stuff is pretty awesome.

Make it a feast: An Indian-inspired feast means serving one or two other dishes like Saag Paneer, Samosa Chaat Fries, or Indian Butter Cauliflower. Also required: warm naan and a big pot of rice.

Easy Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup

Easy Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup

What makes it party-ready: I’ve made this soup for countless book clubs, family gatherings, and friends who have just had babies. Everyone says it’s the best chicken tortilla soup they’ve had, and it’s just as easy to make a big batch by scaling the ingredients. Sure, a pot of soup may not sound like a party, but watch me make it here and see for yourself how festive all those beautiful ingredients look together. Plus, the smorgasbord of colorful toppings lets guests have fun building their own perfect bowl of soup.

Make it a feast: I usually serve this soup on its own—with all the toppings, it feels complete! But it’s never a bad idea to kick off a Mexican-style feast with really good chips, a couple of great guacamoles, and salsa.

Whole Roasted Side of Salmon With Citrus, Chiles, and Herbs

Whole Roasted Side of Salmon With Citrus, Chiles, and Herbs

What makes it party-ready: During my catering career, I learned that one of the best ways to feed a crowd elegantly is with a big roasted side of salmon. It looks impressive coming out of the oven and is the perfect centerpiece to a buffet. If you’re intimidated by buying a side of salmon, don’t be! There’s nothing to it, you literally just ask the fishmonger for “a side of salmon”—I usually plan for five to six ounces per person. (You may even be able to convince them to remove the skin for you!) This one, with roasted citrus slices, is a great main course option for Easter or Mother’s Day. I’ve also served it with great success for cozy girls’ nights with a bottle of pinot noir.

Make it a feast:

Lime-y Chicken Tacos With Jicama, Avocado, and Mint

Lime-y Chicken Tacos With Jicama, Avocado, and Mint

What makes it party-ready: I love a taco night-themed party. When it comes to dinner party recipes, few dishes are more festive, and this surprisingly delicious combo of chicken, jicama, avocado, and mint elevates the entire setup. For a group, I usually set out a couple of big platters on the table with all the ingredients, pass around the tortillas, and let everyone assemble their own tacos family-style.

Make it a feast: For a larger group, I like to offer a vegetarian option since there’s usually at least someone who’s not eating meat. Taco night makes it easy: you can roast some cauliflower and let guests build these delicious all-veg tacos if they so choose. I love them just as much as the chicken, so I’ll usually eat one of each.

Lamb Meatballs in Tomato Sauce With Fresh Ricotta

Lamb Meatballs in Tomato Sauce With Fresh Ricotta

What makes it party-ready: A couple of years back, chef Seamus Mullen served these unbelievably delicious lamb meatballs as the centerpiece to a dinner party he hosted in Santa Monica. As someone who doesn’t cook with lamb very often, I came home feeling inspired to make this spicy lamb meatballs recipe for my next gathering. Although they feel special occasion-worthy, they couldn’t be simpler.

Make it a feast: Take a cue from Chef Mullen’s dinner party and serve with whole roasted cauliflower with salsa verde and a zesty radish, fennel, and grapefruit salad. Or, you could go more classic Italian and serve it on top of a big bowl of olive oil-tossed spaghetti.

Pita and Kebab Board

Pita and Kebab Board

What makes it party-ready: The last thing we want to be doing at a party is worrying about lots of different meal components coming out of the oven at exactly the right time. One solution? A dinner board that contains everything guests need to build their own perfect plate. This easy and flavor-packed pita and kebab version is not only gorgeous, but it’s also perfect for satisfying a range of dietary needs. Vegetarians on board? Make them meatless. Gluten-free friends can skip the pita. The list of variations is truly endless.

Make it a feast: This board has it all: hummus, feta, roasted tomatoes, olives, sliced cucumbers, diced veggie salad, and roasted garlic. What more could you ask for?

Carne Asada Tacos

Carne Asada Tacos

What makes it party-ready: Oaxaca has quickly become one of my favorite places to visit. With its vibrant culture and diverse food scene, there’s so much for travelers to soak up. Alongside all the beautiful, artisan-made goods I’ve sourced for Casa Zuma, I’ve also found inspiration in the many meals I’ve happily devoured. Case in point: bold and bright carne asada tacos that benefits from a mix of herbs, garlic, and plenty of spices. These are perfect for al fresco dining season.

Make it a feast:

Chicken Fire Stew

Chicken Fire Stew

What makes it party-ready: This stew is a stealth pick for party food. It feels like the comfort food your mama might have made, but when presented with as much style as Shelley Armistead did at her beach dinner, it’s suddenly elevated to special occasion status. What makes this dish perfect for a crowd is that you can truly throw everything in the pot and walk away. An hour later, dinner is served. Shower with herbs and edible flowers—both for flavor and a gorgeous presentation.

Make it a feast: Serve alongside spring rice with greens and peas.

Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Grapefruit-Avocado Salsa

Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Grapefruit-Avocado Salsa

What makes it party-ready: These shrimp have been on repeat in my kitchen this summer. Their flavor is incredible and the endless amount of toppings makes it perfect for just about everyone. Trust me, this is THE grilling recipe for all of your outdoor dinner gatherings.

Make it a feast: Guacamole, or any other Mexican-inspired dip, can be served either on your taco or as a side dish with chips. I also love serving these tacos with a Mexican chopped salad to add some extra greens to the table.

Skillet Eggplant Lasagna

What makes it party-ready: One-pan dishes that serve a crowd make dinner party hosting incredibly easy. If you’ve never tried eggplant lasagna, this recipe is a great place to start. It turns a classic dish into something both stunning and healthy. You’ll never cook your lasagna the same again.

Make it a feast: With a heavier dish, I always serve something on the lighter side as my side dish or appetizer. Perhaps an easy bruschetta or a simple salad to spruce up your table and keep guests wanting more.





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The Best Ricotta Toast Recipe

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It’s true what they say: the best things in life are often the simplest. And nowhere is that more true than with toast, also known as one of the greatest foods on earth. Whether it’s topped with avocado and smoked salmon or simply slathered with jam, toast is not only a perfect flavor combo, for me, it also signifies ultimate comfort.

Growing up, a sick day meant toast and tea curled up on the couch with a movie. And there’s one toast memory I’ll never forget. After a 30-hour labor giving birth to my daughter, my mom brought me my favorite fruit and nut bread, toasted and slathered with butter. Nothing had ever tasted better (and I’d never been hungrier.)

Why I’m Eating Sourdough Bread Again

Which brings me to this ricotta toast recipe. I’ve always loved the combination of creamy ricotta cheese slathered onto toasted sourdough. When it comes to texture combinations, it honestly doesn’t get better. But since adopting a grain-free diet last summer, toast has been off the menu. Until recently. I’ve slowly been starting to reincorporate a bit of sourdough back into my diet, and so far—my gut issues haven’t resurfaced. In my research, here’s what I learned:

The fermentation process that gives the bread its distinctive sour taste also makes it more gut-friendly. Millions of people are suffering from digestive malaise, and if you’re sensitive to foods containing gluten or have irritable bowel syndrome, sourdough bacteria’s ability to break down flour has never been more important. – Vanessa Kimbell via Bon Appetit

It’s fascinating! And it’s key to make sure that what you’re getting is “real” sourdough that’s been slowly leavened, not simply store-bought bread with a sour flavor that’s been leavened with fast-rising yeast. I’ll keep you guys posted on my sourdough journey, but in the meantime—let’s talk about this ricotta toast! First thing to mention: this recipe is so simple that it may not even feel like a recipe. However, it’s one of those delicious bites that is so much greater than the sum of its parts. Let’s dive in.

Ricotta: Store-Bought vs. Homemade

When deciding whether to use store-bought ricotta versus making your own, there’s no right answer: both can be absolutely delicious, and it comes down to how much time you have. I shared many years ago how I make my own ricotta at home, and I’m still using the same method—it’s one of the most satisfying and delicious ingredients to make, and you’ll be shocked at how easy it is.

That said, there is zero shame in purchasing a high-quality ricotta from the grocery. You’ll just want to make sure that it’s full-fat (made from whole milk). A lot of what’s on the shelves is the “part-skim ricotta,” which I would only use in a recipe like lasagna. For this, you’re gonna want the creamy goodness of full fat.

Ricotta Toast Toppings

For this version, I wanted to highlight the simple flavors of the crusty sourdough toast with the creamy ricotta, so I kept toppings at a minimum: honey, chopped pistachios, thyme, flaky salt, and Aleppo pepper. However, ricotta toast lends itself to all kinds of creative inspiration. Here are a few topping ideas I’ve tried and loved:

Health Benefits of Ricotta Toast

Sourdough bread. Unlike conventional breads, sourdough undergoes a fermentation process that gives its signature tangy flavor and enhances its gut-friendly properties. This slow fermentation breaks down gluten and phytic acid, making it easier to digest and (as discussed above) sometimes reducing digestive discomfort for those with sensitivities.

Whole-milk ricotta cheese offers a dose of protein and calcium, essential nutrients for muscle repair and bone health.

Honey is a natural sweetener rich in antioxidants and soothing properties, pistachios provide healthy fats and fiber, and thyme is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Each bite of this ricotta toast is both indulgent and nourishing.

You are going to love this ricotta toast for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! Let me know if you give it a try—and if you have any sourdough/gut health stories to share, I’d love to hear in the comments. Scroll on for the recipe for this easy and delicious ricotta toast.

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Description

Elevate your toast game with this deliciously satiating ricotta toast recipe. Keep it simple and sweet with honey and pistachios–or make it savory with slow-roasted tomatoes and basil.


  • 1 piece sourdough bread
  • 1/3 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
  • 2 teaspoons honey, divided
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, divided
  • flaky salt, to taste
  • Aleppo pepper, to taste (you can sub red pepper flakes, just go easy since they’re hot!)
  • 1/4 cup pistachios, roughly chopped

  1. Toast the sourdough bread.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the ricotta with 1 teaspoon honey, 1/2 teaspoon thyme, and a pinch each of flaky salt and Aleppo pepper.
  3. Spread the ricotta mixture on the toast, then top with the remaining honey and thyme. Sprinkle over the chopped pistachios, and finish with a pinch of flaky salt and Aleppo pepper. Eat!

Keywords: ricotta toast, breakfast, appetizer





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