In Traditional Chinese Medicine we believe some foods are 'blood builders' which make them ideal for certain body types, situations and times of year. With that theory in mind this soup is the ultimate "blood builder" to nourish and support you during the Fall & Winter seasons. It's no wonder we intuitively crave certain foods as the temperatures start to dip. This soup is famously easy to make and absolutely delicious. 

It's been so dry this past month, we desperately needed the rain. Then out of nowhere the skies opened up for us, glorious rain storms, thick dark clouds dripping with fat droplets and a symphony of frogs to sing their gratitude. This weather is so peaceful. It makes me want to turn inward and reflect, cuddle up and just be. This weather brings about a certain nostalgia, one of tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches. What is it about tomato soup and the rain? They're simply the perfect pair. 

Mother's Day is just upon us and I can't think of a more perfect cake to celebrate mom with. This cake is light, just sweet enough and bright with notes of lemon zest. The best part? You probably have most of these ingredients in your home! This cake was a staple in our household and still is. When I'm feeling nostalgic or homesick it's these recipes that bring me back to my roots that I lean on. Now get your fork ready and dive into this delicious and perfectly mom-worthy classic sponge! 

What day is it? Do you even wear regular clothes anymore or have you just embraced pajamas? Don't worry... this soup won't pull you away from your very busy schedule of binge watching Netflix for too long. It's one of the fastest soups you'll ever make and it's packed with a hearty amount of vitamin A, Vitamin K, B vitamins, potassium and fiber. Get ready to cuddle with a big bowl of this perfectly spiced soup as you hit 'next episode' on your 4th consecutive hour of binging Netflix. I mean - quarantine life, am I right?

Celery is so underrated. It is often used to as the ultimate side-kick, the supporting role to all other vegetables. But if you start to pay it a little attention you'll quickly realize it's more than just a mineral dense green stalk. It's a delightful vegetable that has floral, sweet and salty notes to it.  This baby is standing front and center - ready to debut just how delightful and tantalizing it can be. With the right spices, this green stalk makes a surprisingly divine soup that is bright and uplifting!

Elderberries are high in Vitamin A, Bioflavonoids, Vitamin C and many minerals! It is made into a delicious tonic that can be taken daily for health maintenance and immune support. It's super easy to make as it's only 3 ingredients. Making an Elderberry tonic is much more affordable than buying it pre-made - so give it a go! 

I want you to imagine yourself off the coast of Italy. Got it? Ok, now close your eyes and feel the cool breeze gently on your face as the warm aroma of your freshly made pasta is placed in front of you. You open your eyes and the most handsome waiter is standing there, shirtle - ...ok I got a little carried away there. But you get the point. Here’s my favorite recipe for an authentic Italian pasta that will bring you straight out of quarantine and right on the coast of Italy (6 feet away from anyone of course).

This pasta is extraordinarily easy to make and takes almost no time to put together. The flavor profile is so vast that you'll have people fooled into thinking this was simmering for hours. As my dad says... Mangia! (let's eat!). 

This delicious soup is the ultimate cold buster! It's best enjoyed when you're experiencing cold symptoms, are feeling run down, or if you need some immune support. The garlic and ginger in this soup are warming in nature and antimicrobial so it can help warm your body and fight pathogen!

Imagine the delicious smell of cinnamon, nutmeg and clove dancing in your kitchen, making its way from the oven as it warms the rest of your house. Lifting your spirits in a way that says "I know life right now is difficult, but try and find comfort in the little things... like the way you can whip up this magical treat with pantry ingredients - from nothing to something wonderful". It's ok to indulge and seek refuge in something sweet on occasion. Just remember, if you're going to cheat - CHEAT SMART.