My 16 Most Loved Recipes of 2016: A Culinary Journey of Favorites
As another year draws to a close on New Year’s Eve, it’s a wonderful time for reflection—not just on life, but on the delightful culinary adventures that filled our kitchens and dining tables throughout the past twelve months. While many of you recently explored Your 16 Favorite Recipes of 2016, I’m thrilled to share a deeply personal collection: My 16 Favorite Recipes from the past year. These aren’t just recipes I tried; they are the dishes I found myself returning to, cooking again and again, becoming true staples in my home. For a food blogger constantly experimenting with new flavors and ingredients, a recipe has to be truly exceptional to earn a permanent spot in the rotation. These 16 gems did just that, offering comfort, excitement, and consistent deliciousness. Join me as we celebrate the year’s standout dishes—I hope you discover some new favorites that will grace your table for years to come!
The Best Savory Delights & Hearty Meals from 2016
The BEST Beef Jerky
2016 marked a significant milestone as I finally unveiled my tried-and-true beef jerky recipe. This isn’t just any recipe; it’s a nostalgic journey back to my teenage years when I eagerly requested a dehydrator for Christmas, driven by a passion to master the art of homemade jerky. What sets this recipe apart, and makes it a perennial favorite for me and everyone who tries it, is its commitment to zero added sugar. I’ve always found overly sweet jerky detracts from the rich, savory meat flavor, and this recipe perfectly embodies that preference. It’s a tender, perfectly seasoned snack that satisfies cravings and makes for an excellent protein-packed treat. Once you try this version, you’ll understand why it’s consistently requested.
Arugula Salad with Parmesan, Lemon and Olive Oil
Continuing with the theme of beloved, frequently made dishes, this simple arugula salad has been a revelation since it debuted on the blog in 2016. Barclay and I prepare it at least once a week—and it truly never loses its appeal. While we’ve experimented with various greens, the crisp, peppery bite of baby arugula remains my absolute favorite. The combination of fresh arugula, sharp Parmesan, bright lemon, and a drizzle of quality olive oil creates a symphony of flavors that is both refreshing and incredibly satisfying. For an added layer of texture and taste, I often toss in some toasted pine nuts, and occasionally, grilled shrimp transforms it into a more substantial meal. It’s the epitome of fresh, easy, and endlessly delicious.
Garlic Lovers Spaghetti
When the irresistible craving for pasta strikes, there’s one recipe I consistently turn to: this unbelievably garlicky spaghetti. It embodies my perfect idea of comfort food—simple, satisfying, and bursting with robust flavor. The generous amount of garlic infused into every strand of pasta creates an aromatic and deeply savory experience that never disappoints. It’s a dish that warms the soul and truly hits the spot, making it a reliable favorite for busy weeknights or when I just need a comforting meal. Easy to prepare yet incredibly flavorful, this spaghetti is a testament to the power of a few simple ingredients combined expertly.
My All-Time Favorite Gumbo
For years, I dabbled with various gumbo recipes, always getting close but never quite hitting that authentic, soul-satisfying mark. 2016 was the year I finally cracked the code and perfected what I now confidently call my all-time favorite homemade gumbo. This recipe is an absolute triumph, boasting a rich, dark roux, perfectly cooked chicken, and savory andouille sausage, all harmonizing in a deeply flavorful broth. It’s a labor of love that rewards you with an incredibly complex and comforting dish, truly capturing the essence of classic Creole cuisine. If you share my passion for gumbo, you absolutely must give this recipe a try; it’s a game-changer that will transport your taste buds straight to New Orleans.
Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)
Another culinary highlight of 2016 was mastering the art of homemade Drunken Noodles, or Pad Kee Mao. I can confidently say that this recipe stands shoulder-to-shoulder with any version I’ve enjoyed in my favorite Thai restaurants. The key lies in its vibrant, super flavorful sauce that coats wide, chewy rice noodles, fresh vegetables, and your choice of protein—be it chicken, beef, seafood, or tofu. It strikes the perfect balance of spicy, savory, and subtly sweet, creating an addictive dish that’s surprisingly quick and easy to prepare in your own kitchen. This recipe proves that authentic Thai flavors are entirely achievable at home, making it a fantastic addition to your global recipe repertoire.
Italian Lentil Soup
This simple Italian Lentil Soup emerged as one of my most delightful culinary surprises of 2016. Moving beyond traditional Mediterranean seasonings, this soup is simmered with a captivating blend of Italian herbs and flavors that truly elevates humble lentils into something extraordinary. It’s incredibly comforting, hearty, and packed with nourishing ingredients, making it a perfect meal for chilly evenings or a healthy lunch option. An added bonus that cemented its place on my favorites list is how beautifully it freezes. I often make a large batch to store away, ensuring a delicious and wholesome meal is always just a defrost away. It’s a testament to how creative seasoning can transform everyday ingredients.
Zesty Lentil Salad
Perhaps flying a bit under the radar on the blog, this Zesty Lentil Salad was, for me, an absolute standout in 2016—a total winner in every sense. It marries hearty lentils with an abundance of fresh, savory flavors that sing together with bright, zesty notes. It’s not just delicious; it’s an incredibly satisfying and filling vegetarian meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture. The combination of ingredients creates a vibrant dish that’s perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a light yet substantial dinner. If you’re looking for a fresh, healthy, and unexpectedly flavorful dish to add to your repertoire, this lentil salad is a must-try.
Exciting New Flavors & Global Inspirations
Easy Peruvian Shrimp
Towards the end of 2016, I ventured into exploring new Peruvian recipes, and this Easy Peruvian Shrimp sauté quickly became a delightful surprise favorite. It’s a dish that’s as bold and vibrant in flavor as it is in color, making for a truly appealing presentation. Beyond its striking appearance, it’s remarkably simple and quick to prepare, which is always a bonus. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates an incredibly delicious and unique taste profile that left both Barclay and me utterly captivated. In fact, he insisted it absolutely had to go on the blog, a rare and high compliment! This shrimp dish is a fantastic way to introduce exciting new global flavors into your weeknight meals.
Brussels Sprouts Tacos with Creamy Avocado Sauce
For those familiar with my unending adoration for Mexican cuisine, you know I’m always on the hunt for a fantastic new taco recipe. In 2016, this yummy Brussels Sprouts Tacos with Creamy Avocado Sauce recipe emerged as my hands-down favorite discovery. Who knew roasted Brussels sprouts could make such an incredible taco filling? Paired with that heavenly, rich avocado sauce, the flavors in this dish are simply divine. It’s a creative and incredibly satisfying vegetarian option that brings together contrasting textures and harmonious tastes, proving that tacos are an endless canvas for culinary innovation. Prepare to be amazed by this delightful twist on a beloved classic!
Rigatoni with Mushrooms, Rosemary and Parmesan
Inspired by a memorable meal Barclay and I shared in Washington D.C. last fall, this simple yet profoundly delicious Rigatoni with Mushrooms, Rosemary, and Parmesan quickly became a new favorite in 2016. It might seem unassuming with its straightforward ingredient list, but trust me, the magic happens when these elements come together. The earthy mushrooms, fragrant rosemary, and savory Parmesan infuse the rigatoni with an incredible depth of flavor that is both comforting and sophisticated. It’s a prime example of how quality ingredients, expertly combined, can create a truly spectacular meal that is sure to impress any crowd without requiring complex techniques. This pasta dish is pure Italian comfort food at its finest.
Mimosa Sangria
Prior to last year, the idea of pairing mimosas and sangria seemed unconventional, but what a revelation it turned out to be! This Mimosa Sangria has quickly ascended to become one of my—and, judging by your enthusiastic feedback, thousands of your—absolute favorite drinks to serve at brunch. It’s ingeniously simple to prepare, yet the combination of sparkling wine, orange juice, and a medley of fresh, juicy fruits creates a refreshing and effervescent concoction that is super delicious and wonderfully celebratory. This drink proves that sometimes the best culinary discoveries are born from unexpected fusions, leading to delightful new traditions.
Toasted Almond Chipotle Guacamole
Originally intended for a 2015 post after a memorable trip to Austin with my friend Kathryne, this Toasted Almond Chipotle Guacamole finally made its blog debut in 2016 following a return visit that reminded me just how essential this recipe is. Inspired by one of the phenomenal guacamoles served at Austin’s La Condesa, this version is irresistibly good—a true show-stopper. The crunch of toasted almonds paired with the smoky heat of chipotle creates a dynamic texture and flavor profile that sets it apart from any other guacamole you’ve tried. If you’re searching for an impressive appetizer that will undoubtedly be the star of your next party, I cannot recommend this recipe enough. It’s gluten-free and vegan, making it a crowd-pleaser for everyone.
Shrimp & Artichoke Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Just recently, I rediscovered the sheer delight of this Shrimp & Artichoke Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette, which reminded me why it’s one of my all-time favorites. While it appears to have a multitude of components, assembling it is surprisingly straightforward. The star of the show is the perfectly seasoned Italian-herb shrimp, which pairs exquisitely with the tender artichoke hearts, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy toasted pine nuts. All these vibrant ingredients are brought together by a bright, zesty lemon vinaigrette that ties every flavor together in absolute harmony. This salad is a symphony of textures and tastes, creating a satisfying and refreshing meal that I genuinely adore.
Easy Refrigerator Pickles
2016 was the year I truly, and finally, embraced my love for pickles, largely thanks to this ultra-easy Refrigerator Pickles recipe. It has become my absolute favorite method for making them at home. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; it can be prepped in mere minutes, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. The result is a batch of wonderfully crunchy, tangy, and subtly sweet pickles that are incredibly healthy and utterly addictive. Once you start crunching, it’s hard to stop! This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, homemade pickles without the complexities of traditional canning, making it accessible for everyone.
Wholesome Sips & Comforting Bowls
Golden Milk
In an effort to intentionally incorporate more turmeric into my diet throughout the year, I wholeheartedly embraced the “golden milk” craze that swept through health-conscious circles. This particular recipe has become my go-to for preparing this warming, nourishing beverage, equally delightful whether served hot or iced. Its flavor profile is reminiscent of a comforting chai, with earthy turmeric, fragrant spices, and a touch of sweetness creating a truly soothing drink. A word to the wise: be exceptionally careful when preparing it, as that vibrant yellow turmeric pigment is a notorious stainer! (Speaking from personal, and slightly stained, experience.) Regardless, it’s a healthy and delicious habit worth adopting.
Slow Cooker Curried Lentil Soup
Finally, as many of you know, my love for a reliable slow cooker recipe runs deep, and this simple Curried Lentil Soup is a cherished classic that I’ve been making for years. It finally earned its rightful place on the blog in 2016, and it’s an absolute lifesaver for busy days. The slow cooker transforms humble lentils and fragrant curry spices into a deeply flavorful, healthy, and incredibly comforting soup with minimal effort. When you’re craving a hearty, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying lentil soup, this recipe will unequivocally hit the spot. It’s a testament to the magic of slow cooking, delivering rich flavors with unparalleled ease.
Reflecting on a Year of Delicious Discoveries
As we bid farewell to 2016 and look forward to new culinary adventures in the coming year, I hope this personal collection of my most cherished recipes provides you with inspiration. Each of these dishes brought immense joy to my kitchen and dining table, becoming more than just meals—they became memories. From quick weeknight solutions to comforting weekend projects, these recipes prove that the most delicious food often comes from the heart, made with simple ingredients and a dash of passion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, I encourage you to try one or two of these favorites. May your new year be filled with good food, great company, and countless delicious moments!