Aggie’s Kitchen’s Best of 2013: A Delicious Look Back at Our Favorite Recipes
As the year drew to a close, I honestly wasn’t sure if I’d manage to put together one of these reflective “best of” posts. Life, particularly with a sweet new baby boy and two active children, has been a beautiful whirlwind, demanding every ounce of my time and focus. The days often blur, leaving little room for online endeavors. I’ve found myself missing this space immensely – missing the joy of cooking, experimenting with flavors, and most of all, sharing those culinary adventures with all of you.
This past year has truly highlighted the need for balance. I’ve realized how easily time can slip away online, often unproductively. My resolve for the coming year is to be more intentional with every moment: dedicating quality time to my cherished family, nurturing our home, and thoughtfully engaging with this blog. It’s a commitment to purposeful living, and I truly hope to strike that harmony soon, allowing me to dive back into sharing the fresh, simple, and wholesome recipes you’ve come to love.
Despite the challenges and being pregnant for much of 2013 – a period when food didn’t always hold the same allure it usually does for me – taking a moment to look back month-by-month at the dishes I created was surprisingly delightful. I was genuinely surprised and happy to rediscover so many recipes that truly resonated with me! This stroll down memory lane has sparked a renewed inspiration, urging me back into the kitchen to craft more delicious, easy-to-prepare meals for my family and for you. It’s a practice I’ve admittedly let slide these past few months, and believe me, my body and taste buds are certainly feeling the difference!
Reflecting on a Flavorful Year: My Top Recipe Picks of 2013
Here’s a heartfelt compilation of my absolute favorite recipes from 2013, month by month. Each one holds a special memory or an experience that made it truly shine:
January: Asian Chopped Cabbage Salad with Panfried Wonton Crisps
This vibrant salad was born during a lively cooking session with my dear friend Julie, and it quickly became a staple. Bursting with crisp cabbage, earthy mushrooms, and a delightful crunch from pan-fried wonton crisps, it’s a testament to how exciting a salad can be. The light yet flavorful Asian-inspired dressing brought everything together, making it a perfect, healthy start to the new year and a dish I could happily eat any day of the week.
February: Kale and Chard Green Power Salad with Maple Vinaigrette
Inspired by an incredible haul of fresh chard from my grandpa’s abundant garden, this “green power” salad is a nutritional powerhouse. Combining hearty kale and tender chard, it’s elevated by a subtly sweet maple vinaigrette that perfectly balances the greens’ robust flavors. This salad became my go-to for a nourishing and satisfying meal during the colder months, proving that healthy eating can be absolutely delicious and incredibly satisfying.
March: Grapefruit and Pistachio Crusted Baked Salmon
A true standout, this elegant yet simple baked salmon dish was inspired by my friend Sandy’s incredible salmon recipe. What made it extra special was using fresh-picked grapefruit from my grandpa’s very own tree! The bright, zesty notes of grapefruit paired with the nutty crunch of pistachios created a unique and unforgettable crust that beautifully complemented the flaky salmon. It’s a sophisticated meal that comes together with surprising ease, perfect for a weeknight yet impressive enough for guests.
April: Refreshing Cantaloupe Smoothie
This refreshing smoothie holds a special place in my heart, evoking memories of the early days of my pregnancy. During moments when I wasn’t feeling my best, its cool, sweet, and hydrating qualities were an absolute lifesaver. Made with simple, fresh ingredients, it’s incredibly easy to whip up and offered a welcome burst of natural sweetness and comfort. Even now, it remains a delightful and healthy treat, perfect for any time you need a little pick-me-up.
May: Mexican Black Bean Pizza
A huge hit, especially with my husband, this Mexican Black Bean Pizza brought a fun and flavorful twist to our regular pizza nights. Layered with seasoned black beans, vibrant toppings, and melted cheese, it was a hearty and satisfying meal that offered a wonderful change of pace. It’s incredibly customizable, making it perfect for incorporating everyone’s favorite ingredients, and has become a go-to for family-friendly dinners that are anything but boring.
June: Shaved Fennel and Arugula Salad
This salad quickly soared to the top of my “favorite salads ever” list after being inspired by a memorable pizza night on vacation. The delicate, licorice-like flavor of thinly shaved fennel perfectly complements the peppery bite of fresh arugula. Dressed simply, it’s a light, crisp, and incredibly sophisticated side dish that pairs wonderfully with so many meals, especially grilled proteins. It’s elegant in its simplicity and truly a must-try.
July: Garden Farro Salad with Feta
The ideal summer grain salad, this Garden Farro Salad with Feta was so good I often ate it for days on end! It’s the perfect blend of filling and light, packed with wholesome farro, fresh garden vegetables, and tangy feta cheese. The Mediterranean-inspired flavors make it incredibly vibrant and satisfying. It’s excellent for meal prep, picnics, or as a light dinner, proving that healthy eating can be both convenient and utterly delicious.
August: Easy Cheesesteak Sandwiches
Ah, pregnancy cravings! This recipe for Easy Cheesesteak Sandwiches was a delicious solution to a very specific craving. Loaded with thinly sliced steak, caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese, these sandwiches brought all the comforting flavors of a classic cheesesteak right into my kitchen. They were incredibly satisfying and surprisingly simple to assemble, making them a hearty and indulgent treat that always hits the spot.
September: Skillet Zucchini and Feta Tortilla Pizza
Once the kids were back in school, these Skillet Zucchini and Feta Tortilla Pizzas became my cherished “lunch date with myself” staple. Quick, easy, and endlessly adaptable, they’re a fantastic way to use up garden zucchini. The combination of crispy tortilla, fresh zucchini, and salty feta, all cooked in a skillet, creates a surprisingly gourmet yet effortless meal. They were a delightful personal indulgence, allowing me to enjoy a flavorful and relatively healthy lunch.
October: Kalamata Olive and Feta Dip with Baked Lemon Pepper Pita Chips
Created for my friend Liz’s virtual baby shower, this Kalamata Olive and Feta Dip quickly became an obsession. It’s incredibly savory, bursting with the briny goodness of Kalamata olives and the creamy tang of feta cheese. Paired with crispy baked lemon pepper pita chips, it’s an irresistible appetizer that’s perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying by yourself. Fair warning: you might find yourself eating massive amounts of this delicious dip!
November: Rotisserie Chicken Cuban Sandwiches
Another pregnancy craving triumph! These Rotisserie Chicken Cuban Sandwiches were an absolute game-changer, especially during the later stages of my pregnancy. My husband perfected them, and they quickly became our regular Saturday afternoon football-watching meal. Using readily available rotisserie chicken made them incredibly easy, while the pressed layers of chicken, ham, cheese, and pickles created a perfectly savory, tangy, and satisfying sandwich that’s hard to beat.
December: Spinach and Feta Quinoa Bites
Mark my words: 2014 is destined to be the year of quinoa bites on Aggie’s Kitchen! These Spinach and Feta Quinoa Bites became my latest obsession and a fantastic way to end the year. They are wholesome, flavorful, and incredibly versatile as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. I simply couldn’t stop eating them, and I’m already buzzing with excitement about exploring more delicious flavor combinations in the coming year. They’re a truly delightful and guilt-free treat!
Each of these recipes holds a special place in my culinary heart, and I would (and often do) make them over and over again. Just thinking about them, I’m getting hungry all over again!
Beyond the Monthly Highlights: Other Beloved Creations
While the monthly favorites truly shined, there were a few other incredible recipes from 2013 that deserve a special mention for their unique appeal and deliciousness.
Honorable Mentions:
- Cherry Tomato and Blue Cheese Salad: This salad offers a delightful burst of flavor, combining sweet cherry tomatoes with the sharp tang of blue cheese. It’s a simple yet sophisticated side that always impresses with its vibrant colors and delicious taste, proving that sometimes, the simplest ingredients make the most impact.
- Herbed Wild Rice Salad with Toasted Pine Nuts: A wonderfully comforting and aromatic dish, this wild rice salad is packed with fresh herbs and crunchy toasted pine nuts. It’s a versatile side that pairs well with almost any main course, offering a nutty texture and an earthy flavor profile that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
- Crockpot Creamy Chicken Spaghetti with Broccoli: The ultimate comfort food made easy in the slow cooker! This creamy chicken spaghetti is rich, hearty, and loaded with tender chicken and healthy broccoli. It’s a perfect kid-friendly meal that practically cooks itself, making busy weeknights a breeze without sacrificing flavor or warmth.
Your Favorites: A Nod to Our Community’s Top Picks
It’s always fascinating to see which recipes resonate most with you, my wonderful readers! Your choices reflect a shared love for healthy, easy, and incredibly delicious food. Here are some of the recipes that earned the most love and clicks from the Aggie’s Kitchen community in 2013:
- Fruity Greek Yogurt Smoothie: A vibrant and nutritious blend, this smoothie is a fan favorite for good reason. It’s a perfect breakfast on the go, a refreshing snack, or a healthy dessert, packed with the goodness of fruit and protein-rich Greek yogurt. Easy to customize and always delicious!
- Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad with Greek Yogurt: This healthier twist on a classic comfort food proved incredibly popular. Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise lightens up the dish without sacrificing its creamy texture or tangy flavor. It’s a fantastic option for lunchboxes, potlucks, or a quick, satisfying dinner.
- Mini Cheddar-BBQ Turkey Meatloaf Muffins: These adorable and flavorful mini meatloaf muffins were a huge hit, especially with families! They offer portion-controlled goodness, packed with lean turkey, sharp cheddar, and a smoky BBQ glaze. They’re fun to eat, kid-friendly, and make meal prep a breeze.
- Slow Cooker Barbecue Chicken Melts: An effortlessly delicious meal, these slow cooker chicken melts are the epitome of comfort food. Tender, shredded barbecue chicken piled high and melted with cheese makes for an irresistible sandwich. It’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort, perfect for busy evenings or game days.
- Whole Grain Orange-Vanilla Greek Yogurt Pancakes: Start your day right with these wholesome and flavorful pancakes! Infused with bright orange and warm vanilla, and made with nutrient-rich whole grains and Greek yogurt, they’re fluffy, satisfying, and a delightful way to elevate your breakfast routine.
(Apparently, 2013 was truly the year of Greek yogurt on Aggie’s Kitchen – and for good reason, it’s such a versatile and healthy ingredient!)
Gratitude and a Look Forward to 2014
The Goodman Family Celebrating Holiday 2013
From the bottom of my heart, thank you all for being here. Your continuous support, kind comments, and enthusiasm for these recipes truly made my year that much brighter and more fulfilling. This community is a constant source of joy and motivation for me.
As we step into a new chapter, here’s to a Happy, Healthy, and incredibly Delicious New Year filled with new culinary adventures and cherished moments with loved ones!
I can’t wait to connect with you again and share many more exciting recipes and stories in 2014!
Woof! Wishing you all the best!