A gift of fresh blue crabs at Gumbo Cove sent me into my vintage cookbook collection, where a family of creamy crab casseroles inspired this lemony Crab and Artichoke Casserole recipe. Along the way, I found patterns, party-food history and even more questions for Cooking the Past Forward.

A Georgia peach haul inspires a rich, moist Peach & Pecan Coffee Cake adapted from a Junior League cookbook. The recipe makes three cakes – one to enjoy, one to freeze and one to share. A vintage Hawaiian Leaf snack set from Grandma Ruth turns up during the photo shoot; was it serendipity or a heavenly “remember me” wink?

These soft tacos were one of Mom’s go-to comfort food recipes—and they’ve stood the test of time. With a tangy, beany, savory filling and just the right amount of spice, they’re simple, satisfying, and endlessly versatile.

This moist and delicious cake is a dessert for all seasons (not just the fall during pumpkin spice madness), and it is right for a party, a potluck or a picnic, just as it is.

With its unexpected and delightful crunch of whole peppercorns and spicy beef flavor, this easy-to-make home-cured sausage will wow your party guests.