Think you’re a foodie? Prove it with these 15 recipes

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Think you’re a foodie? These 15 recipes will put that to the test. Each dish is packed with bold flavors and ingredients that challenge your palate in the best way. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing a crowd, these recipes are designed to push your skills a little further. Ready to prove your foodie status in the kitchen?

A serving of pasta topped with a seared scallops and a sage brown butter sauce.
Brown Butter Scallop Pasta. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Spinach Lasagna Rolls

Two stuffed manicotti pasta shells with ricotta and spinach filling, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese, garnished with a basil leaf.
Spinach Lasagna Rolls. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Spinach Lasagna Rolls are filled with a rich spinach and ricotta mixture, rolled up in tender lasagna noodles, and baked to perfection in a marinara sauce. Ready in about 50 minutes, the dish combines the earthy flavor of spinach with the creaminess of ricotta. Topped with melted cheese, it’s a comforting meal with a balance of savory and slightly tangy tastes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Lasagna Rolls

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Cilantro lime chicken on a plate next to avocado and cilantro garnish.
Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice is a zesty combination of marinated chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh cilantro. This dish takes about 40 minutes to make and offers a refreshing burst of citrus flavor from lime, complemented by the herby cilantro. The tender chicken pairs well with the savory rice, making this a light but flavorful meal. It’s a great option for a quick, vibrant dinner that will wake up your taste buds.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Grandma’s Cornbread

Overhead shot of cornbread in a cast iron skillet with a single slice cut out.
Grandma’s Cornbread. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Grandma’s Cornbread brings classic Southern comfort with a lightly sweet, buttery flavor and a soft, crumbly texture. This timeless recipe takes just 30 minutes and uses simple ingredients like cornmeal, buttermilk, and a touch of sugar. The result is a golden, slightly crispy crust with a moist center that’s perfect for soaking up sauces or enjoying on its own. It’s a nostalgic side that complements any meal, especially hearty soups or stews.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Cornbread

Blackberry Crumble Pie

Overhead shot of blackberry crumble pie with one slice on a serving plate.
Blackberry Crumble Pie. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Blackberry Crumble Pie features a juicy blackberry filling beneath a golden, buttery crumble topping. It takes around 1 hour to bake and highlights the natural sweetness of fresh blackberries, balanced with a bit of tartness. The crunchy crumble on top adds a perfect contrast to the tender, jammy fruit inside. This pie is a delicious way to enjoy a classic dessert with seasonal berries.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Crumble Pie

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Almonds & Feta

A bowl of roasted brussels sprouts.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Almonds & Feta. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Almonds & Feta offers a nutty, tangy twist on the classic veggie dish. In about 35 minutes, the Brussels sprouts are roasted until crispy and golden, then topped with crunchy almonds and crumbly feta cheese. The combination of textures and flavors makes this side dish both satisfying and refreshing. It’s an excellent choice for a simple yet sophisticated accompaniment to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Almonds & Feta

Bangers & Mash with Guinness Gravy

Gravy being poured over sausages and mashed potatoes.
Bangers & Mash with Guinness Gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Bangers & Mash with Guinness Gravy is a hearty dish featuring savory sausages and creamy mashed potatoes smothered in a rich, flavorful gravy. This classic meal takes about 45 minutes to make and is elevated by the deep, malty flavor of Guinness in the gravy. The mashed potatoes are smooth and buttery, providing the perfect base for the juicy sausages and robust gravy. It’s a filling, comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Get the Recipe: Bangers & Mash with Guinness Gravy

Panko Crusted Rockfish

panko crusted rockfish on a plate with spinach.
Panko Crusted Rockfish. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Panko Crusted Rockfish features tender fish fillets coated in crispy panko breadcrumbs, baked to golden perfection. This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it a quick yet impressive meal. The flaky fish is complemented by the light, crunchy crust, delivering a delicate balance of textures. Serve it with a squeeze of lemon for a bright, fresh finish.
Get the Recipe: Panko Crusted Rockfish

Chicken Shawarma Plate

A wooden cutting board with pita bread, hummus, tzatziki and tzatziki sauce.
Chicken Shawarma Plate. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Chicken Shawarma Plate is packed with bold flavors, featuring marinated chicken, fluffy rice, and a fresh cucumber-tomato salad. This Middle Eastern-inspired dish takes about 40 minutes to prepare, with tender, spiced chicken as the star of the plate. The aromatic spices in the chicken pair beautifully with the fresh, tangy salad and the warm, fluffy rice. It’s a vibrant, well-rounded meal that satisfies both flavor and texture cravings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Shawarma Plate

How to Make Pita Bread at Home

Homemade pita bread on a wooden cutting board.
Homemade pita bread. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Homemade Pita Bread is soft, fluffy, and perfect for dipping or stuffing with your favorite fillings. In about 2 hours, you can enjoy freshly baked bread with a tender, pillowy texture and a slightly chewy crust. The simple ingredients of flour, yeast, and water create a versatile bread that works well with almost any meal. It’s a rewarding baking project that yields delicious results every time.
Get the Recipe: How to Make Pita Bread at Home

Blackberry White Chocolate Pots de Creme

Three blackberry pots de creme lined up on a wooden board next to silver spoons.
Blackberry White Chocolate Pots de Creme. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Blackberry White Chocolate Pots de Creme is a creamy, decadent dessert that blends the richness of white chocolate with the tartness of fresh blackberries. This indulgent treat takes about 1 hour and offers a smooth, velvety texture with bursts of berry flavor. The combination of sweet and tangy creates a balanced dessert that feels luxurious but not too heavy. Serve it chilled for a refreshing, elegant finish to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry White Chocolate Pots de Creme

Lamb Shepherd’s Pie

A lamb shepherd's pie served in a glass dish.
Lamb Shepherd’s Pie. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Lamb Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting casserole filled with savory lamb and vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes. This dish takes about 1 hour to bake and delivers a satisfying blend of rich, meaty flavors with the smoothness of the potatoes. The lamb is tender and well-seasoned, making this a hearty, warming meal. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Shepherd’s Pie

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

A serving of chicken pot pie on a dark plate.
Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy is a savory pie filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy tarragon-scented sauce. This classic comfort food takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to bake, with a flaky crust that encases the flavorful filling. The hint of tarragon adds a unique herbal note to the rich gravy, making every bite fragrant and comforting. It’s an ideal choice for a satisfying, homestyle dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

French Toast Bake

A pan of French toast bake.
French Toast Bake. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

French Toast Bake combines slices of bread soaked in a cinnamon-vanilla custard and baked until golden brown and fluffy. This dish takes about 45 minutes to make and offers the perfect balance of sweet, soft custard and slightly crisp edges. It’s a great option for breakfast or brunch, with a comforting, homey feel. Serve it with a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.
Get the Recipe: French Toast Bake

Easy Butternut Squash Soup with Dumplings

Two bowls of butternut squash soup on a wooden table.
Easy Butternut Squash Soup with Dumplings. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Butternut Squash Soup with Dumplings is a creamy, velvety soup made from roasted butternut squash and served with tender dumplings. This comforting dish takes about 1 hour to prepare, blending the natural sweetness of squash with the light, pillowy texture of the dumplings. The result is a warm, hearty meal perfect for chilly days. It’s a nourishing choice that’s both filling and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Easy Butternut Squash Soup with Dumplings

Brown Butter Scallop Pasta

A serving of pasta topped with a seared scallops and a sage brown butter sauce.
Brown Butter Scallop Pasta. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Brown Butter Scallop Pasta is a decadent dish featuring tender seared scallops tossed in a rich brown butter sauce. This elegant meal takes about 30 minutes to prepare, combining the sweetness of the scallops with the nutty flavor of browned butter and fresh herbs. The pasta provides a perfect base, absorbing the sauce for a well-rounded, flavorful bite. It’s a great option for a special occasion or a simple, indulgent dinner.
Get the Recipe: Brown Butter Scallop Pasta

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