Southern Sandwiches Worth Saving: Three Nostalgic Recipes Every Southern Kitchen Needs

There is something so very comforting about the simple sandwiches Southern women have been making for generations. These are the recipes that showed up at baby showers, church luncheons, beach trips, family reunions, and after-Sunday-service gatherings. They are humble, nostalgic, and somehow always taste like home.

As part of our Southern Recipes Worth Saving series celebrating the release of the brand new Summer Issue of Palmetto & Pine Magazine, I wanted to gather three classic Southern sandwich recipes in one place for you to save and share all summer long.

These are the kinds of recipes worth keeping tucked into a recipe binder beside handwritten church cookbook cards and notes from your grandmother. I hope y’all enjoy!

Classic Southern Cucumber Sandwiches

Soft white bread, creamy spread, and cool cucumbers somehow become something truly special in the South. These little sandwiches are perfect for showers, luncheons, tea parties, or slow summer afternoons on the porch.

Ingredients

• 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced

• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

• 1 teaspoon fresh dill (or ½ teaspoon dried dill)

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 loaf soft white sandwich bread

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, mayonnaise, dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.

2. Pat cucumber slices dry with paper towels.

3. Spread cream cheese mixture onto bread slices.

4. Layer cucumbers evenly over half the slices.

5. Top with remaining bread and gently press together.

6. Trim crusts if desired and cut into triangles or finger sandwiches.

7. Chill before serving.

Southern Tip

Serve these ice cold with sweet tea and fresh fruit for the ultimate Southern luncheon spread.

Old Fashioned Southern Ham Salad Sandwiches

Ham salad may not be trendy, but Southern grandmothers everywhere know this recipe belongs in the hall of fame. It is salty, creamy, nostalgic, and absolutely perfect on soft white bread.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked ham, finely chopped

• 2 hard boiled eggs, chopped

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish

• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

• Black pepper to taste

• Soft white sandwich bread

Instructions

1. Combine chopped ham and eggs in a large bowl.

2. Stir in mayonnaise, relish, mustard, and pepper until fully combined.

3. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

4. Spread onto white bread and serve immediately.

Southern Tip

Many Southern families originally made this using leftover Easter or Christmas ham run through an old hand grinder.

Pineapple Cream Cheese Tea Sandwiches

If you grew up attending Southern showers, church fellowships, or ladies’ luncheons, chances are you have seen these sweet little sandwiches sitting on a tray somewhere nearby.

Ingredients

• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup crushed pineapple, very well drained

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

• ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)

• Soft white sandwich bread

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix together softened cream cheese, pineapple, mayonnaise, and pecans.

2. Spread onto slices of white bread.

3. Top with another slice of bread and gently press together.

4. Remove crusts and cut into triangles or finger sandwiches.

5. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Southern Tip

These are best served cold straight from the refrigerator during hot Southern summers.

At Palmetto & Pine Magazine, we believe recipes tell stories. They connect generations, preserve traditions, and remind us that some of the very best things in life are simple.

Our brand new Summer Issue is officially hot off the press and filled with even more Southern recipes, sacred stories, beautiful stays, and inspiration for intentional Southern living all across South Carolina.

Subscriptions begin mailing next week, and we would absolutely love for you to grab a copy and follow along with us this summer.

Southern Side Dishes That Taste Like Sunday Dinner

There's something sacred about a table laden with sides. Not the fancy dishes or the ones that take all day to prepare—but the real sides. The ones that show up at church suppers, family reunions, and Sunday dinners where three generations gather around worn wooden tables.

These are the sides people ask for by name. "Make that casserole again," they say. "Remember when we had those potatoes?" These recipes aren't complicated. They're not trying to impress anyone. They're just good—the kind of good that tastes like home and carries the weight of intention behind every bite.

This week, I'm sharing three sides from real Southern families—recipes that have fed generations and that will feed yours. Because feeding your family well isn't just about nutrition. It's about creating moments. It's about building a table where people want to gather.

Easy Pineapple Cheese Casserole

Ingredients

• 2 (8 oz.) cans pineapple chunks

• 2/3 c. sugar

• 5 Tbsp. flour

• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed

• 1 1/2 c. grated sharp Cheddar cheese

• 1 stick butter, melted

Instructions

1. Drain pineapple chunks and place on bottom of 8 x 8 casserole dish.

2. Mix together sugar and flour, then sprinkle over pineapple.

3. Add cheese on top.

4. Crumble cracker crumbs over cheese.

5. Pour melted butter over top.

6. Bake at 350°, uncovered, for 35 to 40 minutes.

Baked Bean Casserole

Ingredients

• 2 large onions, chopped

• 1 cup brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon dry mustard

• 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup vinegar

• 1 (14 1/2-ounce) can lima beans or butter beans, drained

• 1 (14 1/2-ounce) can French style green beans, drained

• 1 (15 1/2-ounce) can kidney beans, drained

• 2 cans baked beans

• 1 (4-ounce) jar sliced mushrooms

• 1 pound bacon, crisply fried, crumbled (reserving 2 tablespoons drippings)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°.

2. Sauté onions in bacon drippings for 15-20 minutes or until tender.

3. Add brown sugar, mustard, garlic, salt, and vinegar; mix well.

4. Combine beans and mushrooms in a large baking dish.

5. Pour sauce over beans.

6. Sprinkle bacon on top.

7. Bake uncovered for 1 hour or until longer and soupy.

Yield: 8 servings

Parmesan Potatoes

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 3/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

• 6 large potatoes, peeled and quartered

• 1/2 cup butter

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°.

2. Combine flour, cheese, salt, and pepper in a bag.

3. Shake to coat potatoes.

4. Melt butter in 9x13-inch casserole dish.

5. Place potatoes on top of the butter.

6. Bake for 45 minutes or until tender, turning potatoes after 10 minutes of baking.
   

Yield: 10 to 12 servings

Why These Sides Matter

There's a philosophy behind a well-set table. It says: You matter enough for me to slow down. You matter enough for me to gather. You matter enough for me to nourish.

These aren't fancy recipes. They're not trying to be. They're just honest, good food that brings people together. And in a world that moves so fast, that asks so much of us—a table full of sides like these feels like an act of rebellion. An act of love.

If you want to go deeper into this philosophy—if you want to understand the why behind how real women are building intentional lives through faith, family, and the table—the Summer Issue of Palmetto & Pine Magazine is waiting for you.

In this issue, you'll meet women like Kelly Pelfrey, who's learning to balance resilience and joy. Erika, who's building deep family connections. And others who are discovering that feeding their families with intention ripples into every part of their lives.

These aren't just recipes. They're invitations into a way of living that feels more peaceful, more purposeful, more you.

This Week's Challenge

Pick one of these sides. Make it this weekend. Gather people around your table—whether that's your immediate family, extended family, or friends who feel like family.

Notice what happens when you slow down enough to prepare food with intention. Notice the conversations that happen.

Then, if you want more of this—more stories, more strategies, more permission to live intentionally—grab your copy of Palmetto & Pine's Summer Issue.

Because every woman deserves a table, a community, and a magazine that gets it.

Partner Spotlight: Garner’s Natural Life

Mama’s Recipes Worth Saving: Southern Desserts Passed Down for Generations

My heart has always been to share the kinds of things that make a house feel like home…
and if we’re being honest, nothing does that quite like a well-loved recipe passed down through generations.

There’s something sacred about an old church cookbook.
The slightly worn pages. The familiar names. The recipes that don’t come with long instructions because they were never meant to—they were learned by watching, by doing, by standing shoulder to shoulder in a warm kitchen.

These are the recipes that showed up again and again.
At Sunday lunches. At potlucks. At holidays. At the moments that mattered most.

Not because they were fancy…
but because they were faithful.

Today I’m sharing a handful of those recipes—the ones that feel like they came straight from a mama’s hands or a granny’s kitchen. The kind you don’t want to lose. The kind worth writing down one more time.

So whether you’re baking for your own family or simply holding onto a little piece of the past… I hope you love these as much as we do.

My Mother’s Crisp Crunchie Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 stick butter

• 1 stick margarine

• 1 cup sugar

• 2 Tbsp vanilla

• 1 egg, separated

• 2 cups self-rising flour

• 1 cup pecans, finely chopped

Instructions:
Cream together butter, margarine, and sugar. Add egg yolk and vanilla, mixing well. Add flour and beat until well blended.

Spread thin on an ungreased cookie sheet, allowing mixture to nearly reach the edges. Brush the top with beaten egg white and sprinkle with pecans.

Bake at 325° for 10–12 minutes, or until lightly browned. Cut into squares while hot and remove from pan.

Granny’s Chewy Cakes

Ingredients:

• 1½ sticks margarine

• 2 cups light brown sugar

• 2 cups self-rising flour

• 2 eggs

• 1 Tbsp vanilla

• Optional: chopped pecans or chocolate chips

Instructions:
Melt margarine over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in remaining ingredients one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Pour into a greased 9x13 pan and spread evenly. Add chocolate chips if desired.

Bake at 325° for 20–30 minutes, or until lightly browned. Do not overbake. Cool completely and cut into squares.

Nana’s Fruit Cobbler

Ingredients:

• 1 cup self-rising flour

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 cup milk

• 1 stick butter

• 2 large cans fruit (peaches or your choice), reserve one can of juice

Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°. Melt butter in a large baking dish.

In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and milk. Pour mixture over melted butter—do not stir. Spoon fruit over the top and add one can of fruit juice.

Bake for 40–50 minutes, until golden and bubbly.

Mom’s Peanut Butter Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup margarine, softened

• 1 cup peanut butter

• 1 cup brown sugar

• ½ cup sugar

• 2 eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2½ cups quick oats

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 tsp baking soda

• ¼ tsp salt (optional)

Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°. In a large bowl, cream together margarine, peanut butter, and both sugars. Add eggs and vanilla; mix well.

In a separate bowl, combine oats, flour, baking soda, and salt. Add dry ingredients to wet mixture and stir until combined.

Drop by spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheet. Flatten with a fork dipped in sugar to create a crisscross pattern.

Bake for 8–10 minutes. Cool briefly, then transfer to a wire rack.

Granny’s Pecan Pie

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 cup light corn syrup

• 3 eggs

• Pinch of salt

• ½ stick butter, room temperature

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup chopped pecans

• 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust

Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°. Mix all ingredients together until well combined. Pour into pie crust.

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until set. Let cool before serving.

Derby Day Favorites: 5 Southern Recipes Worth Saving for Kentucky Derby Weekend

Derby weekend is almost here and in the South, that means something!

Before Kentucky ever claimed the race, South Carolina had horse racing roots going back to the 1700s. The Washington Race Course in Charleston was one of the earliest formal tracks in the entire country. Carolinians were dressing up, gathering together, and celebrating the beauty of the horse long before the Kentucky Derby became a household name. And every spring, Camden's Carolina Cup carries that tradition forward in the most beautiful way. If you've never been, put it on your list.

So this week's Southern Recipes Worth Saving collection is a Derby celebration — Carolina style!

The best Derby parties aren't about perfection. They're about presence — putting something beautiful on the table and gathering the people you love around it. These five recipes will do the heavy lifting. You just show up in your prettiest hat and enjoy the afternoon!

All five full recipes are in this week's newsletter as well and arrive every week straight to your inbox. Not subscribed yet? I'd love to have you — and our Summer Issue releases June 1st!

Southern Recipes Worth Saving: The Salads That Always Make the Table

There’s something about a Southern table that doesn’t need explaining.

It’s familiar. It’s welcoming. And more often than not, it’s filled with dishes that have been passed around for years—sometimes without a recipe card in sight.

As we count down to the release of the summer issue of Palmetto & Pine Magazine on June 1st, I wanted to start a simple series—something that felt true to the heart of this community and the way we gather.

Southern Recipes Worth Saving.

Not complicated. Not fussy. Just the kind of recipes that show up again and again… because they work!

This week, we’re starting with the salads that always seem to make their way to the table—whether it’s a church gathering, a spring luncheon, or a weekend with family.

Y’all enjoy!

Window Boxes in Charleston, SC: A Blooming Tradition Rooted in History

If you've ever strolled down a side street in Charleston, South Carolina — past the pastel-painted row houses, the wrought iron gates, and the lush hidden gardens — you've almost certainly stopped to admire a window box. Spilling over with petunias, trailing ivy, sweet potato vine, or maybe a tidy row of fresh herbs, Charleston window boxes are one of the city's most charming and recognizable details.

But these little gardens have a history that goes far deeper than Southern charm. Window boxes are, in fact, one of the oldest gardening traditions in the world.

The Ancient Origins of Window Boxes

Long before they became an Instagram-worthy detail on a Charleston single house, window boxes were a matter of survival.

The earliest evidence of container gardening dates back to ancient Rome — around the first century B.C. — when many Romans lived stacked on top of one another in crowded urban housing not unlike modern apartments. Without yards, without space, without resources, lower-class Roman families used window boxes as an economical way to grow food and medicine right outside their windows. Roman wives, in particular, were known to keep herb boxes close to the window for easy access while cooking and healing. Sound familiar? That story you may have heard — about reaching out the kitchen window to snip fresh herbs for dinner — turns out to be historically true, and thousands of years old.

The Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder even wrote nostalgically about villagers whose windows overflowed with colorful plantings. It was clearly a beloved custom even then.

Over time, as Rome's influence spread across Europe, so did the window box. What began as a practical solution to urban crowding gradually evolved into something more beautiful. Flowers replaced some of the vegetables — roses, lilies, violets, and pansies became favorites — and the window box began its long transformation from kitchen garden to decorative art form.

Window Boxes Across Europe

By the 17th and 18th centuries, window boxes had taken root across Europe, each region developing its own distinctive style:

• France evolved the window box into elegant wrought iron containers, sometimes so spacious they functioned almost like small balconies.

• England favored wire hay baskets mounted to cottage walls, overflowing with trailing flowers.

• Italy continued the terra cotta tradition, with rustic clay boxes that still define the look of Tuscan and Roman streetscapes today.

• Germany, Holland, and Ireland each developed their own regional styles, turning window boxes into a point of civic and personal pride.

The Victorian era, in particular, was a turning point. Mass production made terracotta and metal planters affordable to the middle class for the first time, and window boxes became nearly ubiquitous across Europe's cities. They were both practical — a way to grow herbs and vegetables in tight quarters — and deeply decorative, a connection to nature in the heart of dense urban environments.

Window Boxes Come to America

Window boxes crossed the Atlantic with European colonists and quickly found a home in America's early cities. In places like Boston's Beacon Hill, where homes were built flush to the street with little or no yard, window boxes became the logical solution for kitchen gardens. Homeowners would plant herbs just outside the window — close enough to reach, practical enough to feed a family.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, window gardening took on an additional dimension in American cities, becoming part of a broader civic beautification movement. Women's groups promoted window gardens as a way to bring color, order, and a sense of community pride to dense urban neighborhoods. "Gardens in a box," as early advocates called them, were seen as a way to connect the private home to the public street — a gift to the passerby as much as the homeowner.

Charleston, SC: A City Made for Window Boxes

Few places in America are better suited to window boxes than Charleston, South Carolina — and that's not an accident.

Charleston's historic architecture, with its iconic single houses, double piazzas, and narrow lots, was practically designed with window boxes in mind. The city's mild climate allows for year-round planting, meaning a well-tended window box in Charleston can be a living, changing work of art through every season. The long, warm growing season supports lush, trailing plants that spill dramatically over the edges of boxes — the kind of overgrown abundance that looks effortless but takes real care.

Walk down any street in the French Quarter, Harleston Village, Ansonborough, or South of Broad, and you'll see window boxes that have been tended for generations. Some are overflowing with seasonal flowers — geraniums, petunias, and sweet alyssum in spring and summer; ornamental kale and pansies in fall and winter. Others hold fragrant herbs: rosemary, basil, thyme, and mint, nodding to that ancient Roman tradition of the kitchen garden outside the window. Charleston's window boxes are as varied as the city itself — some formal and architectural, some wild and romantic, some simple and sweet.

They are, in their own quiet way, a form of storytelling. Each one says something about the person who tends it, the history of the house it adorns, and the neighborhood it belongs to.

What to Plant in a Charleston Window Box

If you're inspired to start your own window box garden here in the Lowcountry, the good news is that Charleston's climate is forgiving and generous. A few tips for local success:

Spring & Summer: Geraniums, lantana, pentas, sweet potato vine, petunias, and vinca all thrive in the heat and humidity. For herbs, basil, rosemary, and mint do beautifully with good drainage and full sun.

Fall & Winter: Swap summer annuals for pansies, ornamental kale, dusty miller, and snapdragons. Rosemary and thyme carry through beautifully into cooler months.

Year-round: Trailing ivy, creeping Jenny, and sweet potato vine add lush texture in any season. Ferns love Charleston's humidity and add a classic Southern touch.

The key to a thriving window box in the Lowcountry is drainage. Charleston summers are hot and wet, and roots that sit in soggy soil won't survive. Always use a quality potting mix, ensure your box has drainage holes, and water consistently but not excessively.

A Living Piece of History

The next time you pause on a Charleston sidewalk to admire a window box — the way the petunias catch the afternoon light, the way the rosemary spills over the edge, the way the whole thing transforms a plain facade into something alive — remember that you're looking at a tradition stretching back more than two thousand years.

From ancient Rome to Victorian England to the streets of the Holy City, the window box has always been about the same thing: the human desire to grow something beautiful, even in a small space. To reach out the window and touch something green. To offer a little color to the world passing by.

Charleston does it better than most. And we're here for it.

The Azalea Mocktail: Augusta's Most Beautiful Drink, Made for Every Table

Every April, the azaleas bloom at Augusta National and the whole world turns its attention to a golf course in Georgia. The Green Jacket. The roars from Amen Corner. The perfectly manicured grounds that look almost too beautiful to be real.

And then there's the drink.

Named after the vibrant pink flowers that famously line the Augusta National course, the Azalea is as essential a part of the Masters experience as the mint julep is to the Kentucky Derby.  It's bright, it's pink, it tastes like spring and it belongs on your watch party table whether you follow golf or just follow the food.

I've given it a mocktail makeover here, because I believe the most beautiful drinks should be for everyone at the table. This version keeps all the color, all the sweetness, and all the charm.

The Azalea Mocktail Serves 4 — or make it by the pitcher

Ingredients:

• 2 cups lemonade, fresh-squeezed if you can manage it

• 1 cup pineapple juice

• 2 tablespoons grenadine (look for one made without high fructose corn syrup — it makes a difference)

• 1 cup sparkling water or ginger ale

• Ice

• Maraschino cherries and lemon slices to garnish

In a large pitcher, combine the lemonade, pineapple juice, and grenadine. Stir gently until the grenadine swirls through and the whole thing turns the most gorgeous shade of blush pink. Just before serving, pour in your sparkling water for a little fizz and give it one more slow stir. Pour over ice in your prettiest glasses and garnish with a cherry and a lemon slice. Serve immediately while it's still cold and the bubbles are still lively.

To make a single glass: combine 4 oz lemonade, 2 oz pineapple juice, and a generous splash of grenadine over ice. Top with a splash of sparkling water and garnish.

A few notes from my kitchen:

On the grenadine: The color of this drink comes entirely from your grenadine, so use a good one. Traditional store-bought grenadine is often made with artificial ingredients and high fructose corn syrup— check the label and reach for something made with real pomegranate if you can find it. Your drink will be richer in color and flavor.

On making it ahead: This mocktail is perfect for a crowd. Mix the lemonade, pineapple juice, and grenadine together up to a day in advance and store it in a pitcher in the refrigerator. Add the sparkling water right before you serve so it stays fizzy.

On the garnish: A maraschino cherry and lemon slice are classic. A fresh sprig of mint makes it feel a little more garden-party. If you happen to have any fresh flowers on your table — even a single bloom from your yard — tuck one nearby and let the presentation do the talking.

Serve it alongside:

This mocktail was made to sit next to a spread of Masters sandwiches — egg salad on soft white bread, pimento cheese piled thick, chicken salad with a little crunch. The tartness of the lemonade cuts right through the richness of the mayo-based salads and the whole thing just works the way good Southern food always does.

The azaleas at Augusta bloom in full every April, right on time for the tournament and this drink blooms right along with them. Whether you're watching every shot from the first tee or just catching the back nine with a glass in hand, this is the drink that belongs in it.

Make a pitcher. Slow down. Let the afternoon be what it is.

🌸 Save this recipe and pair it with our Masters Watch Party Sandwich Salads carousel for the full spread.

5 Compound Butter Recipes to Elevate Everyday Meals at Home

There’s something timeless about setting a table with intention.

A warm basket of biscuits. A simple roasted chicken. Fresh vegetables pulled from the oven. And right in the center—a small dish of butter.

But not just any butter.

Compound butter.

It’s one of the easiest ways to elevate everyday meals at home, and in a Southern kitchen, it feels like a quiet little luxury—simple, thoughtful, and always worth it.

If you’ve never made your own compound butter, you’re about to discover just how easy (and useful) it really is.

What is Compound Butter?

Compound butter is simply butter mixed with herbs, spices, or sweet ingredients to create a flavored butter that enhances your food.

It can be:

• Melted over steak or chicken

• Spread onto biscuits or cornbread

• Tossed with roasted vegetables

• Used to finish seafood or pasta

And the best part? Most compound butter recipes take less than 5 minutes to make.

How to Make Compound Butter (Simple Method)

1. Start with softened butter

2. Add your ingredients

3. Mix until fully combined

4. Roll into a log using parchment paper (optional)

5. Refrigerate until firm

Slice and serve whenever you want to make a meal feel a little more special.

5 Easy Compound Butter Recipes to Try

1. Honey Cinnamon Butter (Perfect for Biscuits & Breakfast)

A Southern staple that feels right at home on any breakfast table.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup softened butter

• 2 tbsp honey

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• pinch sea salt

Instructions:
Mix until smooth and creamy. Chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Best served with: biscuits, cornbread, pancakes, or sweet potatoes

2. Garlic Herb Butter (Steakhouse Favorite at Home)

Savory, rich, and incredibly versatile.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup softened butter

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• pinch sea salt

Instructions:
Mix well, then roll into a log using parchment paper. Refrigerate until firm.

Best served with: steak, chicken, roasted vegetables, or warm bread

3. Lemon Dill Butter (Fresh & Bright for Seafood)

Light, citrusy, and perfect for spring and summer meals.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup softened butter

• 1 tbsp fresh dill

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• pinch sea salt

Instructions:
Stir together and chill until firm.

Best served with: fish, shrimp, asparagus, or rice

4. Maple Pecan Butter (A Cozy Southern Favorite)

Sweet, nutty, and perfect for slow mornings or holiday tables.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup softened butter

• 1 tbsp maple syrup

• 2 tbsp finely chopped pecans

• pinch cinnamon

• pinch sea salt

Instructions:
Mix thoroughly and refrigerate before serving.

Best served with: biscuits, toast, waffles, or baked sweet potatoes

5. Hot Honey Butter (Sweet Heat Southern Favorite)

A bold, slightly spicy butter that takes simple dishes to the next level.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup softened butter

• 2 tbsp honey

• 1/2–1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• pinch sea salt

Instructions:
Mix until smooth and creamy. Chill slightly or serve softened.

Best served with: biscuits, fried chicken, cornbread, roasted vegetables, or sandwiches

Why You Should Keep Compound Butter in Your Fridge

If you’re looking for a simple way to make meals feel more intentional without adding extra work, this is it.

Compound butter:

• Comes together in minutes

• Elevates even the simplest meals

• Stores well in the fridge or freezer

• Adds flavor without complicated recipes

It’s one of those small, thoughtful touches that makes home feel warm and welcoming.

A Final Note from My Kitchen to Yours

Around here, we believe that home doesn’t have to be complicated to be meaningful.

Sometimes it’s lighting a candle at dinner.
Sometimes it’s setting the table just because.
And sometimes—it’s as simple as a slice of butter melting over a warm biscuit.

Save This for Later

Keep these easy compound butter recipes on hand for:

• Sunday suppers

• Dinner with friends

• Holiday gatherings

• Weekend brunch

• Or simply making a weeknight meal feel special

Looking for More Southern Recipes?

If you love simple, elevated recipes like this, you’ll find more inside Palmetto & Pine Magazine—where we share Southern stories, meaningful stays, and recipes designed to help you live well right where you are.

5 Easy Spring Sheet Pan Dinners for Busy Weeknights

As the days grow longer and the evenings warmer here in the South, dinner tends to shift toward meals that feel lighter, simpler, and easier to prepare.

One of my favorite ways to bring a nourishing meal to the table without spending the entire evening in the kitchen is with sheet pan dinners. Everything cooks together on one pan, the flavors blend beautifully, and cleanup takes just minutes.

These five spring-inspired sheet pan dinners are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome without the hassle.

Lemon Garlic Chicken & Spring Vegetables

This bright, fresh dinner feels like spring on a plate.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken thighs

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed

• 1 cup baby potatoes, halved

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh thyme

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F.

Toss potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a sheet pan and roast for 10 minutes.

Remove from the oven and add the chicken and asparagus. Drizzle everything with remaining olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and thyme.

Return to the oven and roast for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through.

Sheet Pan Steakhouse Dinner

This meal brings the flavors of a steakhouse dinner home with very little effort.

Ingredients

• 1½ lbs flank steak, sliced into strips

• 1 lb baby potatoes

• 1 cup mushrooms

• 1 red onion, sliced

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F.

Toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Roast on a sheet pan for 15 minutes.

Add the steak, mushrooms, and onions to the pan. Return to the oven and cook another 10–12 minutes, until steak reaches desired doneness.

Serve with fresh parsley and a small pat of butter if desired.

Honey Dijon Salmon with Spring Vegetables

This sheet pan dinner is light, flavorful, and perfect for warmer evenings.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets

• 1 cup snap peas

• 1 cup sliced carrots

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Sauce

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F.

Toss snap peas and carrots with olive oil and spread onto a sheet pan. Roast for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, mix honey, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.

Remove pan from oven and place salmon fillets on the sheet pan. Brush each fillet generously with the honey Dijon sauce.

Return to oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, until salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan

This meal brings bright Mediterranean flavors to a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken breasts

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes

• ½ red onion, sliced

• ½ cup olives

• 1 zucchini, sliced

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp oregano

• 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F.

Arrange chicken, tomatoes, onion, olives, and zucchini on a sheet pan.

Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Bake for 25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Finish with crumbled feta and fresh parsley.

Shrimp Fajita Sheet Pan

This quick and flavorful meal is perfect for taco night.

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

• 1 onion, sliced

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp taco seasoning

• Juice of ½ lime

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F.

Toss peppers and onions with olive oil and taco seasoning. Spread onto a sheet pan and roast for 10 minutes.

Add shrimp to the pan and return to the oven for 12–15 minutes, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Serve with warm tortillas, avocado, and fresh cilantro.

A Note From My Kitchen

Simple dinners like these are part of the heartbeat behind Palmetto & Pine Magazine — helping women create homes that feel warm, welcoming, and nourishing without adding more stress to an already full day.

If you love recipes like these, you’ll find even more intentional meals, Southern stories, and home inspiration inside the Spring Issue of Palmetto & Pine.

A Southern St. Patrick’s Day Menu: Easy Green Recipes for Your Holiday Table

If the internet had its way, St. Patrick’s Day would always involve corned beef and cabbage.

But if you grew up in the South, you know that our tables tend to look a little different.

Around here, a proper green holiday meal might include a bowl of creamy broccoli salad, a dish of pistachio fluff that somehow qualifies as a “salad,” a pot of slow-simmered greens, and something comforting baked in the oven. Southern cooking has a way of turning simple ingredients into something that feels warm, familiar, and meant to be shared.

This year, if you're looking for Southern St. Patrick’s Day recipes, here’s a menu full of green dishes that feel festive while still honoring the kinds of foods that show up at church potlucks, family gatherings, and Sunday dinners across the South.

Whether you're hosting friends, cooking for your family, or just enjoying the early hints of spring, this Southern-style St. Patrick’s Day menu is simple, comforting, and full of flavor.

Southern St. Patrick’s Day Menu

☘️ Classic Southern Broccoli Salad
☘️ Watergate Salad (Pistachio Fluff)
☘️ Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
☘️ Slow-Cooked Southern Collard Greens
☘️ Creamy Cucumber Salad
☘️ Key Lime Pound Cake

Let’s start with one of the most beloved dishes in Southern kitchens.

Classic Southern Broccoli Salad

If you’ve ever attended a church potluck in the South, you’ve probably seen a bowl of broccoli salad sitting proudly on the table. It’s creamy, crunchy, salty, and just a little sweet — the kind of dish that disappears quickly.

Ingredients

5 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
½ cup cooked bacon crumbles
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup diced red onion
½ cup sunflower seeds

Dressing

1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, bacon crumbles, shredded cheddar cheese, red onion, and sunflower seeds.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving so the flavors have time to come together.

Watergate Salad (The Classic Green Dessert)

Watergate Salad has been a Southern favorite for decades. Despite its name, it’s really a fluffy dessert that combines pistachio pudding, pineapple, marshmallows, and whipped topping into a sweet and creamy dish that’s perfect for spring gatherings.

Ingredients

1 package pistachio instant pudding mix
1 can crushed pineapple (with juice)
1 cup mini marshmallows
½ cup chopped pecans
1 container whipped topping (Cool Whip)

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pistachio pudding mix with the crushed pineapple and its juice. Stir until the pudding begins to thicken.

Fold in the mini marshmallows, chopped pecans, and whipped topping until everything is well combined.

Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours before serving.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

For a warm main dish that still keeps the St. Patrick’s Day theme, this creamy pesto chicken pasta brings together tender chicken, fresh spinach, and bright basil pesto.

Ingredients

1 pound pasta
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
½ cup basil pesto
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup heavy cream
1 cup fresh spinach
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package directions and drain.

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the pesto and heavy cream. Stir until warmed through.

Add the shredded chicken and fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until the spinach begins to wilt.

Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce mixture and finish with grated Parmesan cheese.

Slow-Cooked Southern Collard Greens

Collard greens are a staple across the South and make a wonderful addition to a St. Patrick’s Day meal thanks to their deep green color and rich flavor.

Ingredients

1 large bunch collard greens, washed and chopped
4 slices bacon
1 small onion, diced
3 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of sugar

Instructions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.

Add the diced onion and cook until softened.

Add the chopped collard greens and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Cover and cook for about 45 minutes to an hour until the greens are tender.

Finish with apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and a small pinch of sugar. Crumble the bacon back into the pot before serving.

Creamy Cucumber Salad

This light and refreshing cucumber salad balances out the richer dishes on the table and adds another fresh green element to the meal.

Ingredients

3 cucumbers, thinly sliced
½ red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.

Add the sliced cucumbers and red onion and toss until well coated.

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Key Lime Pound Cake

For dessert, a bright and citrusy key lime pound cake brings a beautiful spring flavor to the table.

Ingredients

1 box pound cake mix
½ cup key lime juice
1 tablespoon lime zest
½ cup sour cream
3 eggs

Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons key lime juice

Instructions

Preheat the oven according to the cake mix instructions.

Combine the cake mix, key lime juice, lime zest, sour cream, and eggs in a mixing bowl and beat until smooth.

Pour the batter into a greased loaf or bundt pan and bake according to package directions.

Once cooled, whisk together powdered sugar and key lime juice and drizzle the glaze over the cake.

Bringing a Little Southern Charm to St. Patrick’s Day

Holidays in the South often become less about tradition and more about gathering people around the table with good food and warm conversation.

Whether it’s a bowl of broccoli salad that reminds you of childhood potlucks or a slice of key lime pound cake shared on the porch in early spring, these dishes bring a little extra charm to the season.

And sometimes, celebrating a holiday simply means enjoying a table full of food that feels familiar.

✨ If you love Southern recipes, charming homes, and meaningful stories from across South Carolina, you’ll find even more inside the latest issue of Palmetto & Pine Magazine.

Inside the spring issue you’ll find:

• seasonal Southern recipes
• beautiful places to visit across South Carolina
• stories of renewal and intentional living
• ideas for creating a home that feels peaceful and welcoming

Shop above and make the SPRING ISSUE yours today!

A Stay at Hotel Domestique: A Luxury Blue Ridge Mountain Getaway in Travelers Rest, South Carolina

If you’ve spent any time researching romantic getaways in South Carolina or boutique hotels near Greenville, chances are you’ve come across Hotel Domestique.

It’s known for destination weddings, luxury cycling retreats, and its European-inspired design tucked into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

But I want to show you something different.

Where Is Hotel Domestique?

Hotel Domestique is located in Travelers Rest, South Carolina — just outside Greenville in the Upstate. Perched against the Blue Ridge Mountains, the property feels distinctly European, yet unmistakably Southern in its hospitality.

From the moment you turn onto the winding drive, the world slows.

Stone architecture. Courtyard fountains. Wide mountain views that stretch farther than your to-do list.

If you’re searching for:

• A luxury hotel near Greenville, SC

• A romantic weekend getaway in the Blue Ridge Mountains

• A boutique hotel in Travelers Rest

• A peaceful retreat in Upstate South Carolina

This one belongs on your list.

What Makes Hotel Domestique Different?

Yes, it’s popular for cycling enthusiasts and weddings.

But here’s what doesn’t get talked about enough:

It is a place to reset your nervous system.

The rooms are intentionally quiet. Many have private balconies overlooking the mountains. The courtyard feels like Tuscany without the passport. Even dinner on property feels celebratory without requiring an occasion.

This isn’t a place to perform.

It’s a place to exhale.

For mothers who build homes.
For entrepreneurs building businesses.
For couples who need to reconnect.
For women who simply need a pause.

And in a culture that glorifies busy, that pause feels radical.

A Romantic Getaway in South Carolina That Feels European

One of the reasons Hotel Domestique stands out among South Carolina luxury stays is its design.

The architecture and courtyard evoke a European countryside escape. You could easily imagine yourself in Italy or France — yet you’re only minutes from downtown Travelers Rest and the Swamp Rabbit Trail.

That blend of refinement and accessibility is rare.

You can:

• Enjoy a quiet morning coffee overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains

• Take a scenic drive through the Upstate

• Explore Travelers Rest’s charming downtown

• Return for an elevated dinner without ever leaving the property

It feels curated without feeling complicated.

Is Hotel Domestique Worth It?

If you’re looking for:

• A romantic weekend getaway in South Carolina

• A solo retreat near Greenville

• A peaceful Upstate mountain hotel

• A luxury boutique experience that feels intimate

Yes.

But not just because it’s beautiful.

Because it gives you something many places don’t: margin.

And margin is a gift.

Final Thoughts: Slow Is a Strategy

We often think of rest as indulgent.

But what if it’s wise?

What if slowing down in the Blue Ridge foothills isn’t escape — but alignment?

Hotel Domestique isn’t just a destination wedding venue or cycling retreat.

It’s a place to remember who you are when the noise fades.

And sometimes that’s the most luxurious thing of all.

Four Picnic Ideas for Every Season of Life (Southern-Inspired Picnic Plans in South Carolina)

When I was growing up in the Upstate of South Carolina, my daddy was a preacher. Sundays were full & my Mama had it right grabbing that Family Chicken Dinner and slowing things down.

Paper napkins. Sweet tea. Feeding the ducks.

No Pinterest boards.
No curated baskets.
Just time together.

And I think somewhere along the way, we complicated something that was always meant to be simple.

So here are four Southern-inspired picnic ideas — whether you’re heading to a park in Travelers Rest, gathering at the lake, planning a romantic overlook, or meeting girlfriends just because.

1. The Kid-Friendly Weekday Park Picnic

Perfect for after-school afternoons or summer splash pad days.

What to Pack:

• Fried chicken tenders

• Watermelon slices

• Cheddar cubes

• Mini croissants

• Applesauce pouches

• Lemonade

This picnic works because it’s easy to clean up and easy to eat. Think practical, not precious.

Best for:

• Local parks in Greenville or Columbia

• Playground meetups

• Casual weekday outings

2. The Classic Southern Sunday Picnic

This one honors tradition.

What to Pack:

• Crispy fried chicken (homemade or store-bought)

• Potato salad

• Deviled eggs

• Fresh sliced tomatoes with salt and pepper

• Sweet tea

• Banana pudding in jars

This is the picnic that feels like church clothes rolled up at the sleeves and cousins running barefoot.

Best for:

• Sunday afternoons

• Lake Murray

• Family reunions

• Post-church gatherings

3. The Romantic Couples Picnic in the Blue Ridge Mountains

If you’re staying near Travelers Rest or planning a weekend getaway in the Upstate, this one’s for you.

What to Pack:

• Charcuterie board (prosciutto, brie, olives)

• Fresh baguette

• Grapes or figs

• Sparkling water or wine

• Dark chocolate

Keep it minimal and elevated.

Spread a neutral blanket. Let golden hour do the work.

Perfect for:

• Blue Ridge overlooks

• Mountain sunset views

• A quiet afternoon near your hotel

4. The Girlfriend Gathering Picnic

Because sometimes you need conversation more than a reservation.

What to Pack:

• Chicken salad croissants

• Caprese skewers

• Pasta salad with vinaigrette

• Strawberries and whipped cream

• Rosé or sparkling lemonade

This is the picnic that turns into two hours of laughter and real talk.

Perfect for:

• Birthday gatherings

• Book clubs

• Midweek reset afternoons

Why Picnics Still Matter

In a world that pushes us toward restaurants, reservations, and curated experiences, a picnic quietly says:

We don’t need much.

Just a blanket.
A little food.
And each other.

Whether you’re staying in Travelers Rest, exploring the Upstate, or simply heading to your neighborhood park — picnics remind us that joy doesn’t require extravagance.

It requires intention.

Kid-Friendly Charleston Itinerary: The Perfect Afternoon & Evening in Charleston, SC

If you are searching for a kid-friendly Charleston itinerary that feels easy, elevated, and doable in just a few hours, this is exactly how I would spend an afternoon and evening in Charleston, South Carolina.

One of the greatest gifts of living in South Carolina is being close enough to Charleston to make a spontaneous day trip. Whether you are planning a spring break outing, a weekend girls’ day, or simply looking for things to do in Charleston, SC with kids, this afternoon itinerary keeps it simple and memorable.

This is Charleston with kids — but done beautifully.

Start at the South Carolina Aquarium

Any great kid-friendly Charleston itinerary should begin somewhere engaging and manageable. The South Carolina Aquarium, located right on the harbor, is one of the best things to do in Charleston, SC with children.

Highlights include:

– The stingray touch tank
– The Sea Turtle Care Center
– The Great Ocean Tank
– Harbor views from the outdoor deck

If you are planning a Charleston day trip with kids, arriving when they open or later in the afternoon helps avoid peak crowds.

The aquarium sets the tone for the day — educational, relaxed, and enjoyable for both moms and girls.

Grab Dessert at Carmella’s Café and Dessert Bar

After exploring the aquarium, head into historic downtown Charleston for something sweet.

Carmella’s Café and Dessert Bar is one of my favorite dessert stops in Charleston. If you are traveling gluten-free, they offer options that truly taste indulgent. Cannoli, cake slices, espresso drinks — it feels like a celebration.

Adding a dessert stop to your kid-friendly Charleston itinerary makes the day feel special without needing a full sit-down lunch.

Walk Rainbow Row, The Battery & Downtown Charleston

No Charleston itinerary is complete without time outside.

If you are wondering what to do in Charleston, SC after the aquarium, this is where the charm begins.

– Take photos along Rainbow Row
– Walk The Battery and admire the historic homes
– Browse King Street and Meeting Street
– Let the kids cool off at Pineapple Fountain

Charleston is best experienced unhurried. Leave space for wandering and spontaneous stops.

For families planning a Charleston girls’ day or looking for things to do in Charleston with kids, this portion of the afternoon is both scenic and flexible.

End with Waterfront Dining

To finish your kid-friendly Charleston afternoon, end with dinner by the water.

If you are willing to cross the bridge into Mount Pleasant, Tavern & Table offers harbor views and outdoor seating that feel relaxed and welcoming for families.

If you prefer to stay downtown, Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar provides waterfront dining right in the historic district, making it easy to park once and stay put.

Watching the sunset over the water is the perfect ending to a Charleston day trip.

Why This Kid-Friendly Charleston Itinerary Works

This Charleston itinerary blends:

– Educational experiences
– Walkable historic stops
– Flexible timing
– Sweet treats
– Waterfront dining

If you are planning a Charleston afternoon itinerary, looking for things to do in Charleston, SC with kids, or organizing a girls’ day in Charleston, this plan keeps everything manageable and memorable.

The beauty of Charleston is that it does not require overplanning. A few intentional stops create a full experience.

And sometimes the best family days are the ones that feel almost effortless.

Easy Weekend Dinner Ideas for Spring: 4 Simple Southern Porch Suppers

During the week, I cook with intention.

We sit at the table. We reconnect. We slow down.

But on the weekends, I protect rest.

That means easy weekend dinner ideas that still feel abundant — without standing in the kitchen for hours. These simple Southern porch supper recipes are perfect for spring evenings when you want good food and open windows.

Below are four family-friendly spring dinner recipes you can rotate all season long.

1. Southern Charcuterie Supper Board

A No-Cook Weekend Dinner Idea

This is not an appetizer board. This is dinner.

Serves: 4–6

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Ingredients

Protein

• 1 cup sliced prosciutto or salami

• 1 rotisserie chicken, sliced

• 4–6 boiled eggs, halved

Cheese

• 8 oz sharp white cheddar, sliced

• 4 oz goat cheese

Produce & Extras

• 1 cup fresh berries

• 1 apple, thinly sliced

• ½ cup pickled okra

• ½ cup marinated olives

• 1 box gluten-free crackers

• Warm sourdough (optional)

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 2 tablespoons grainy mustard

Instructions

1. Place cheeses on a large wooden board first.

2. Fold and layer sliced meats beside the cheeses.

3. Add sliced chicken and halved boiled eggs.

4. Fill empty spaces with berries, apples, pickled okra, and olives.

5. Drizzle honey over goat cheese.

6. Serve immediately and let everyone build their own plate.

This is one of the easiest no-cook weekend dinner ideas for spring when you want something beautiful without cooking.

2. All-On-The-Grill Lemon Garlic Chicken Supper

An Easy Spring Dinner Recipe

When warm weather arrives, dinner moves outside.

Serves: 4–6

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15–20 minutes

Ingredients

• 6 boneless chicken thighs

• 2 zucchini, sliced lengthwise

• 2 yellow squash, sliced lengthwise

• 4 ears corn, husked

• 2 peaches, halved

• 8 oz halloumi or thick-cut grilling cheese

Marinade

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon sea salt

• ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

2. Mix olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

3. Brush marinade over chicken and vegetables.

4. Grill chicken 6–7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

5. Grill vegetables and peaches 3–4 minutes per side.

6. Grill halloumi until golden grill marks form.

7. Arrange everything on one large serving platter and serve warm.

This simple Southern recipe keeps cleanup minimal and porch time long.

3. Strawberry Spinach Chicken Salad

A Light & Easy Weekend Dinner

Fresh, colorful, and filling.

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

Salad

• 6 cups baby spinach

• 1½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced

• ½ cup toasted pecans

• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

• 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced

Dressing

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

• 1 teaspoon honey

• ½ teaspoon sea salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.

2. Place spinach in a large serving bowl.

3. Top with strawberries, pecans, onion, feta, and sliced chicken.

4. Drizzle dressing just before serving and toss gently.

This is one of my favorite spring dinner ideas when we want something light but satisfying.

4. Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta (Gluten-Free Friendly)

A 30-Minute Family Dinner Recipe

Comforting without being heavy.

Serves: 4–6

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 12 oz gluten-free pasta (or regular pasta)

• 1 cup whole milk ricotta

• ½ cup grated parmesan

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

• ½ teaspoon sea salt

• ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper

Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

3. Add hot pasta to the ricotta mixture.

4. Slowly add reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the sauce becomes creamy.

5. Stir in fresh basil and serve immediately.

This quick pasta is one of the best easy weekend dinner ideas when you want comfort without spending the entire evening cooking.

Why These Easy Weekend Dinner Ideas Work

These porch suppers are:

• Simple Southern recipes

• Gluten-free adaptable

• Family-friendly

• Perfect for spring evenings

• Low effort but high impact

Intentional living does not require elaborate meals every night.

Sometimes the most meaningful weekends are the ones where dinner was simple — and conversation lasted long after the plates were cleared.

Crockpot Angel Chicken – 5 Ways (Including the Southern Classic)

If you’ve ever searched for a Crockpot Angel Chicken recipe, you know it’s one of the most beloved Southern slow cooker meals.

Creamy. Comforting. Easy enough for Sunday morning before church. And traditionally served over angel hair pasta.

Today, I’m sharing Crockpot Angel Chicken five different ways — including the original church cookbook classic — plus four updated variations for the intentional kitchen.

Whether you prefer the traditional version with cream of chicken soup or a crockpot angel chicken without canned soup, you’ll find your version here.

What Is Crockpot Angel Chicken?

Crockpot Angel Chicken is a slow cooker chicken recipe made with cream cheese, seasonings, and a creamy sauce, traditionally thickened with cream of chicken soup and Italian dressing mix. It’s typically served over angel hair pasta — which is where it gets its name.

It’s been a Southern staple for decades.

1. The Southern Classic Crockpot Angel Chicken

This is the original angel chicken recipe many of us grew up eating.

Ingredients:

• 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup

• 1 packet Italian dressing mix

• 8 oz cream cheese

• 4 tbsp butter

Instructions:
Place chicken in crockpot.
Mix soup and dressing packet together and pour over chicken.
Top with cream cheese and butter.
Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours.
Serve over angel hair pasta.

2. Crockpot Angel Chicken Without Cream of Chicken Soup

This version keeps the creamy comfort but uses real ingredients instead of canned soup.

Ingredients:

• 2–3 chicken breasts

• 8 oz cream cheese, cubed

• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream

• ½ cup chicken broth

• ½ tsp oregano

• ½ tsp thyme

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ cup grated parmesan

Instructions:
Add everything to crockpot.
Cook on LOW 4–5 hours.
Shred chicken and stir until sauce is smooth.

This crockpot angel chicken without cream of chicken soup has the same creamy texture with a cleaner ingredient list.

3. Tuscan Crockpot Angel Chicken

Add to the no-soup base:

• 2 cloves garlic

• 1 cup fresh spinach (add last 20 minutes)

• ½ tsp dried basil

• Pinch red pepper flakes

• Squeeze of lemon before serving

This version tastes like a Tuscan cream chicken but cooks just as easily in the slow cooker.

4. Mushroom & White Wine Angel Chicken

Add to the no-soup base:

• 1 cup sliced mushrooms

• 2 tbsp white wine

• ½ tsp thyme

• Extra ¼ cup parmesan

Cook LOW 4–5 hours and stir well before serving.

5. Mediterranean Angel Chicken

Add to the no-soup base:

• ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes

• ½ cup artichoke hearts

• ½ tsp oregano

• Lemon zest

• Crumbled feta before serving

Bright and fresh while still creamy.

What To Serve With Crockpot Angel Chicken

• Angel hair pasta

• White rice

• Mashed potatoes

• Roasted broccoli

• Simple green salad

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook angel chicken on HIGH?
Yes, but LOW for 4–5 hours gives the best texture and prevents sauce separation.

Can I freeze crockpot angel chicken?
Yes, though cream-based sauces may slightly change texture when reheated. Stir well after thawing.

Can I use chicken thighs?
Absolutely. Boneless, skinless thighs work beautifully in this recipe.

A Note From My Kitchen

Angel Chicken has been part of Southern kitchens for decades. I believe you can honor tradition while also cooking intentionally. Whether you choose the classic version or the no-canned-soup upgrade, this Crockpot Angel Chicken recipe still does what it’s always done:

It feeds people well.

And that’s the heart of hospitality.

24 Hours in Beaufort, SC: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary for a Lowcountry Getaway

If you’re planning a weekend in Beaufort SC and wondering where to stay, where to eat, and the best things to do in downtown Beaufort, this 24-hour Beaufort itinerary will help you plan the perfect Lowcountry getaway.

As a born-and-raised Carolina girl who knows her way around the state, this is exactly how I would spend 24 hours in historic Beaufort, South Carolina — slowly, intentionally, and soaking in every bit of waterfront charm.

Whether you're visiting for a romantic weekend, a girls’ trip, or a quick coastal reset, Beaufort SC offers walkable streets, historic homes, waterfront views, and some of the best restaurants in the Lowcountry.

Where to Stay in Beaufort, South Carolina

Check Into the Rhett House Inn in Downtown Beaufort

If you’re looking for where to stay in Beaufort SC, the historic Rhett House Inn is one of the most charming options in downtown Beaufort.

Located just steps from Bay Street and the Beaufort waterfront, this Southern inn features:

• Classic Lowcountry architecture

• Rocking chairs on wide front porches

• Complimentary evening charcuterie

• A relaxed, intimate atmosphere

After settling into your room, enjoy the evening porch scene as the Spanish moss sways overhead. It’s the perfect way to begin a weekend in Beaufort, South Carolina.

Friday Night: Dinner in Downtown Beaufort

Old Bull Tavern on Bay Street

When it comes to the best restaurants in Beaufort SC, Old Bull Tavern consistently tops the list.

Located just off Bay Street in downtown Beaufort, this cozy, European-inspired tavern is known for:

• A seasonal, chef-driven menu

• Thoughtful local market partnerships

• Warm, welcoming service

After dinner, take a slow walk along the Beaufort waterfront park under the evening lights before heading back to your inn. Downtown Beaufort at night is quiet, romantic, and deeply Southern.

Saturday Morning: Historic Beaufort Walking Tour

One of the best things to do in Beaufort SC is simply walk.

Start your morning with breakfast on the porch at the Rhett House Inn, then head toward The Point neighborhood — one of the most beautiful and historic areas in Beaufort, South Carolina.

Here you’ll find:

• Waterfront mansions with sweeping porches

• Live oaks draped in Spanish moss

• Historic homes dating back to the 1700s

• Film locations from movies like The Big Chill

If you’re looking for a free and unforgettable activity, this historic Beaufort walking tour through The Point offers stunning views and timeless Lowcountry architecture.

A Literary Stop: Pat Conroy Literary Center

Beaufort SC is known for its deep literary roots.

Stop by the Pat Conroy Literary Center in downtown Beaufort to explore the life and legacy of one of the South’s most beloved authors.

For book lovers and Southern history enthusiasts, this is one of the most meaningful cultural attractions in Beaufort, South Carolina.

Best Lunch in Downtown Beaufort, SC

Before heading home, enjoy lunch at one of these top-rated downtown Beaufort restaurants:

Plums Restaurant

A waterfront staple serving shrimp and grits, sandwiches, and classic Lowcountry dishes.

Lowcountry Produce Market & Café

Fresh soups, salads, and locally sourced ingredients in a charming historic building.

Blackstone’s Café

A longtime Beaufort favorite known for tomato pie and casual Southern fare.

Panini’s on the Waterfront

Water views paired with sandwiches, seafood, and relaxed outdoor seating.

Q on Bay

Lowcountry barbecue and waterfront dining in the heart of downtown Beaufort.

All of these Beaufort SC lunch spots are walkable from Bay Street and ideal for wrapping up your 24-hour Beaufort itinerary.

Why Beaufort, South Carolina Is the Perfect Weekend Getaway?

If you’re looking for a charming coastal town in South Carolina that offers:

• Walkable historic streets

• Waterfront views

• Incredible dining

• Literary history

• Relaxed Lowcountry atmosphere

Beaufort SC delivers.

It’s one of the most romantic and scenic weekend destinations in South Carolina — and it’s easy to explore in just 24 hours.

Save this Beaufort travel guide for your next Lowcountry getaway, and come ready to slow down.

Rock on a porch.
Walk under the moss.
Savor downtown Beaufort.

And remember why we love living in the South.

A Simple Valentine’s 3-Course Dinner at Home (That Feels Like a Reservation)

There is something so lovely about staying home.

No reservations.
No waiting for a table.
No rushing through a meal because the next party is standing behind you.

Just candles.
A set table.
Music low in the background.
And a meal made with intention.

If you’re staying in this Valentine’s Day, here is an easy three-course menu that feels elevated — but is completely doable. This is the kind of dinner that says “I thought about this” without it being too stressful on anyone.

Let’s build your menu.

Course One: Whipped Goat Cheese + Hot Honey Crostini

Sweet. Savory. Elegant. And ready in about 15 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 baguette, sliced

• 8 oz goat cheese (room temperature)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 tablespoons hot honey

• Fresh thyme (optional)

• Flaky sea salt

Directions

1. Brush baguette slices lightly with olive oil.

2. Bake at 400°F for 8–10 minutes until golden and crisp.

3. Whip goat cheese with a drizzle of olive oil until fluffy.

4. Spread onto warm crostini.

5. Drizzle with hot honey and finish with thyme and flaky salt.

It feels like something you’d order at a tucked-away bistro — but you made it in your own kitchen.

Main Course: Creamy Tuscan Chicken (One-Skillet, 30 Minutes)

This is your restaurant-style moment — without the reservation.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts

• Salt and pepper

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream)

• ½ cup grated parmesan

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes

• 1 cup fresh spinach

Directions

1. Season chicken with salt and pepper.

2. Sear in butter over medium heat until golden on both sides. Remove and set aside.

3. Add garlic to the skillet and sauté 30 seconds.

4. Pour in broth and cream. Simmer 3–4 minutes.

5. Stir in parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes.

6. Add spinach and allow to wilt.

7. Return chicken to the pan and simmer until fully cooked through.

Serve with mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted asparagus.

It looks impressive.
It tastes indulgent.
It takes about 30 minutes.

Dessert Option One: No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake Cups

Rich. Chocolatey. No oven required.

Ingredients

• 1½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (or crushed gluten-free brownies)

• 3 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup powdered sugar

• ½ cup melted dark chocolate

• ½ teaspoon vanilla

• 1 cup whipped cream

Directions

1. Mix crumbs with melted butter and press into small jars or ramekins.

2. Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.

3. Add melted chocolate and vanilla.

4. Fold in whipped cream.

5. Spoon over crust and chill 1–2 hours.

Top with strawberries or chocolate shavings before serving.

Dessert Option Two: Strawberry Shortcake

Southern. Timeless.

Ingredients

• 2 cups sliced strawberries

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• Shortcakes or biscuits (regular or gluten-free)

• Fresh whipped cream

• Splash of vanilla

Directions

1. Toss strawberries with sugar and let sit 15–20 minutes.

2. Split shortcakes in half.

3. Layer berries, juices, and whipped cream.

4. Top with more cream and a few extra strawberries.

For an elevated twist, add a light drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Set the Table. Light the Candles. Stay In!

Valentine’s doesn’t have to mean crowds and reservations.

Sometimes it’s quieter.
More meaningful.
More intentional.

A home-cooked meal.
A clean table.
The people you love sitting across from you.

That’s romance, too.

And truly? It might be the best seat in the house.

5 Simple Crock-Pot Chicken Recipes I’m Making This Month to Make Life Easier

February always feels like the month where real life settles in.

The holidays are packed away, the new year glow has worn off, and the days are still a little heavy and gray. And if you’re anything like me, you’re craving meals that work for you instead of adding another thing to manage.

This month, I’m leaning all the way into making life easier—especially when it comes to feeding the people I love well.

Nothing fancy.
Nothing complicated.
Just dependable, dump-and-go dinners that let me start the day strong and come home feeling like I’ve already won.

Here are five simple crock-pot chicken recipes I’m adding to my regular rotation right now. They’re flexible, forgiving, and built for real homes with real schedules.

1. Mexican Salsa Chicken

This one is a weeknight hero—minimal effort with big flavor.

Ingredients

• 2–3 lbs chicken breasts

• 1 jar salsa

Seasonings

• 2 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt + pepper to taste

Shortcut: 1 packet taco seasoning

Cook: Low for 6–7 hours

Serve it

• Over rice

• In tortillas or taco bowls

• With tortilla chips + sour cream

2. Creamy Ranch Chicken

Comfort food that feels cozy without being complicated.

Ingredients

• 2–3 lbs chicken breasts

• 1 block cream cheese

• ½ cup milk or broth

Seasonings

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp dried parsley

• ½ tsp dried dill

• Salt + black pepper

Shortcut: 1 packet ranch seasoning

Cook: Low for 6–7 hours
Shred and stir before serving.

Serve it

• Over mashed potatoes or rice

• With a veggie or simple salad

3. Greek-Style Chicken

Bright, fresh, and perfect when you want something lighter.

Ingredients

• 2–3 lbs chicken breasts

• ½ cup olive oil

• Juice of 1 lemon

Seasonings

• 2 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• Salt + pepper

Shortcut: Greek seasoning blend

Cook: Low for 6–7 hours

Serve it

• Over rice or orzo

• In pita with tzatziki

• On a Greek salad

4. Classic BBQ Chicken

An easy crowd-pleaser that works for busy days and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2–3 lbs chicken breasts

• 1½ cups BBQ sauce

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Seasonings

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• Black pepper

Shortcut: No extra seasoning needed if your BBQ sauce is already seasoned

Cook: Low for 6–7 hours
Shred before serving.

Serve it

• On buns

• With coleslaw

• Alongside baked beans or corn

5. Honey Garlic Chicken

Sweet, savory, and a family favorite every time.

Ingredients

• 2–3 lbs chicken breasts

• ½ cup honey

• ⅓ cup soy sauce or coconut aminos

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Seasonings

• 1 tsp garlic powder (or fresh garlic)

• ½ tsp ground ginger

• Black pepper

Shortcut: Bottled honey garlic sauce

Cook: Low for 6–7 hours

Serve it

• Over rice

• With broccoli or snap peas

• In lettuce wraps

A Gentle Reminder…

These aren’t “Pinterest-perfect” meals—and that’s exactly the point.

They’re the kind of recipes that let you show up for your family without burning yourself out. Meals you can start in the morning and forget about until dinner, knowing something warm and comforting is already taken care of.

This season, I’m choosing food that supports the life we’re actually living—one crock-pot meal at a time.

If you try one of these, save it, share it, or pass it along to a friend who could use an easier dinner this week 🤍

Snow Day Sheet Pan Sweet Treats

Easy, cozy bakes that feed a crowd (without baking all day)

Snow days have taught me one very important thing: when the house is full and routines are out the window, sheet pan desserts save the day.

As a private chef cooking for a family of six, I always lean toward recipes that feel special but don’t require multiple batches, constant supervision, or a sink full of dishes. These sweet treats are warm, comforting, and designed to stretch—perfect for slow winter afternoons, cozy kitchens, and kids drifting in and out asking, “Is it ready yet?”

Each recipe below starts with a kid-friendly base, with simple adult upgrades if you want to elevate the pan without baking twice.

Y’all Enjoy! {Since our family is gluten free, I’ve included subs for that if you need them, too!}

Sheet Pan Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Soft in the center, golden on the edges, and loved by everyone.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, melted

• 1 cup brown sugar

• ½ cup white sugar

• 2 eggs

• 1 tablespoon vanilla

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour (or 1:1 gluten-free flour)

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 cups chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper.

2. Whisk together melted butter and sugars. Add eggs and vanilla.

3. Stir in flour, baking soda, and salt until combined. Fold in chocolate chips.

4. Spread evenly in the pan.

5. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until edges are set and the center is just soft. Cool slightly before slicing.

Optional Adult Upgrades

• Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before baking

• Add chopped walnuts

• Use a mix of semi-sweet and dark chocolate

Fudgy Sheet Pan Brownies

Rich, soft brownies that hold up beautifully all day.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, melted

• 2 cups sugar

• 4 eggs

• 1 tablespoon vanilla

• 1 cup cocoa powder

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or 1:1 gluten-free flour)

• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a sheet pan with parchment.

2. Whisk butter and sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla.

3. Stir in cocoa powder, flour, and salt until fully combined.

4. Spread evenly in the pan.

5. Bake 20–25 minutes. Let cool completely before cutting.

Optional Adult Upgrades

• Add 1–2 teaspoons espresso powder

• Swirl in peanut butter or tahini

• Finish with flaky sea salt

Funfetti Blondies

Bright, cheerful, and perfect for snow days that feel a little long.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, melted

• 1½ cups brown sugar

• 2 eggs

• 1 tablespoon vanilla

• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour (or 1:1 gluten-free flour)

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¾ cup white chocolate chips

• ⅓ cup sprinkles

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a sheet pan with parchment.

2. Mix butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla.

3. Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt. Fold in white chocolate chips and sprinkles.

4. Spread evenly in pan.

5. Bake 20–24 minutes, until lightly golden and set.

Optional Adult Upgrades

• Use vanilla bean paste

• Add lemon zest for brightness

• Swap sprinkles for chopped white chocolate

Brown Butter Blondies

A warmer, nuttier version that feels just a little more grown.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, browned and slightly cooled

• 1½ cups brown sugar

• 2 eggs

• 1 tablespoon vanilla

• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour (or 1:1 gluten-free flour)

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Brown butter in a saucepan until golden and nutty. Let cool slightly.

2. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a sheet pan with parchment.

3. Mix butter and sugar. Add eggs and vanilla.

4. Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.

5. Bake 20–24 minutes, until edges are set.

Optional Adult Upgrades

• Add chopped pecans or walnuts

• Drizzle with salted caramel

• Finish with flaky sea salt

One pan. One bake. Enough for everyone.

They’re forgiving, cozy, and perfect for the kind of days when the house is full, the weather is quiet, and time slows just enough to make something sweet together.

If you save just one thing for the next snow day—make it one of these.