Last year was the first year I did a recap post of my favorite recipes of the year. I used to think these end-of-year round-ups were a bit silly, but now I really enjoy reading them on other blogs, as well as writing my own. I love looking back over my year in food and seeing what recipes really stand out to me as the best of the best. Like last year, I’ve narrowed my posts down to 30 favorites. Thirty may seem like a lot, but considering that I posted over 200 recipes this year, it’s not an easy task. Without further ado, the first half of my favorites from 2010:
Everyone needs a great classic lasagna recipe, and this is my favorite. It takes some time to assemble but feeds a large crowd (or a smaller family for days!)
This recipe for scallops Provençal is my favorite way to prepare scallops. Fairly quick and simple, yet rich and indulgent, this is a great meal for a special occasion.
Pizza bites – a simple, genius idea for one of the best snacks or appetizers around. I can’t make them too often because they are irresistible.
For cookie dough lovers, these cookie dough truffles are a must-try. Personally, I can’t think of any truffle filling I would prefer more than yummy (eggless) cookie dough!
We’re major enchilada fans in this household, so this recipe for chicken enchiladas was a true revelation. It immediately became my reigning favorite and eventually won over Ben as well.
I absolutely love soup. I would probably be eating it every day if it weren’t for my wicked pregnancy-induced reflux. It’s nearly impossible to choose a favorite, but French onion would definitely rank near the top. With caramelized onions, baguette slices and melted Gruyere, what’s not to love?
These burger buns are so wonderful, I haven’t been able to bring myself to purchase the store-bought variety since trying them. I make them and keep some in the freezer almost all the time.
If I had to pick a favorite dessert of the whole entire year, it is without question this chocolate mousse. It is thick, smooth and incredibly rich. Oh, I cannot wait to have it again!
To me, these blueberry scones are the scones that all other scones should be measured against. Light, tender and buttery with a bright flavor from the blueberries and lemon zest. A freezer staple, in my opinion.
This spring green risotto really took me by surprise. I thought it would be good, but the final product is so much more than the sum of its parts. The flavors all meld together to produce a fantastic meal that is even more wonderful because of the fresh green color.
Cookie dough cupcakes are probably one of the most brilliant dessert creations I have encountered. These are incredibly rich but so worth it. True cookie dough lovers only, please.
I was always lukewarm to chocolate ice cream before trying this recipe. Now I’m a believer. It puts the store-bought kind to shame.
Since first trying this recipe for wheat pita bread, I have made it countless times. For gyros, hummus, and anything else I can think of. It is puffy and delicious. Even Andrew loves it!
These grilled chicken fajitas are one of my favorite dinners of the whole year, and good enough to make me uncover the grill from inches of snow in the dead of winter to have them again.
With shrimp, white fish, and lobster, this seafood gratin is full of flavor and perfect for a special occasion. I need to think up some more special occasions….
Stay tuned tomorrow for the second half of my “Best of 2010”!
