A simple platter of prosciutto, smoked salmon and tasty condiments turns Happy Cocktail at the Tree House into an accidental summer dinner for two.

Two effortless seafood appetizer platters—shrimp and sardines one night, smoked salmon the next—prove that with a few good ingredients and a “use what you’ve got” mindset, every evening can feel like a celebration.

Sometimes the smallest pauses bring the biggest joy. A simple fruit salad with hot honey, a glass of sparkling rosé, and an evening of test kitchen fun became a moment of connection and gratitude at the Tree House.

The Christmas holiday time with family was over, the days-long series of festivities successfully executed and enjoyed by all. This short poem captures the essence of the post-holiday reflection of empty-nesters.

Recipes don’t have to be complicated to be good. This quick appetizer recipe pairs the sweetness of plums with the tart, silky-rich balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of sea salt gives it a zippy little punch.

Zippy Coffee Rub is the magic behind our new Coffee Rub Steak Bites recipe, which is super-simple. And you can do cool things with the leftovers!

Today’s January dreaming post is about the very simple but enormously satisfying routine of having pre-dinner appetizers in our backyard space called the Tree House (with food pics!).