RECIPES          RECIPES          RECIPES

This shredded pork spaghetti is comfort in a bowl—tender, slow-braised pork meets a rich, flavorful sauce of tomatoes, wine, and aromatic vegetables. Sweet onions, peppers, fennel, and carrots add depth and texture, while a touch of herbs and red wine elevates every bite. Perfect with pasta, crusty bread, and your favorite glass of red, it’s a dish that’s simple, satisfying, and unforgettable.   Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds pork loin (I use center cut, white meat only w/fat cut of

Get ready for crispy, golden chicken roll-ups filled with creamy goat cheese, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil that adds a bright, herbaceous kick. This easy baked dish is crunchy on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside — perfect for a quick dinner that feels special. Bonus: that crispy, cheesy filling that oozes out? Totally delicious. Let’s get rolling! Savory and Crispy Chicken Rollatini with Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Ingredients: Chicken: 4 fres

Growing up in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, taco pizza was a local favorite—and this recipe is my personal take on that hometown classic from one of our beloved pizzerias. It’s the perfect mash-up of two comfort food icons: pizza and tacos! With a crispy crust, seasoned beef, melty cheese, and all your favorite taco toppings piled on top—this childhood favorite is still a total crowd-pleaser. It’s fun, flavorful, and guaranteed to win over both kids and adults alike. One bite, and you'

Classic French Beef Bourguignon (serves 8-10)  Few dishes are as comforting and refined as a classic beef bourguignon. With simple ingredients—beef, wine, and vegetables—this recipe creates a rich, flavorful stew that practically melts in your mouth. The secret twist: a rough mirepoix simmers early to infuse the broth with deep, layered flavor, then is removed so the final vegetables—carrots, pearl onions, and mushrooms—remain perfectly tender and vibrant. For even more depth

In these chilly winter months (yes, even here on Balboa Island), there is nothing as therapeutic as creating a warm winter dish while enjoying a nice glass of wine (highly recommended)!  This traditional French-inspired dish is full of flavor and will warm you up from the inside, out! Provencal Chicken with Pastis (Poulet Au Pastis)   Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, with skin on & bone in (or 6 skinless, boneless) Sea salt and black pepper (to taste) Herbs de Provence (or pou