It’s hard to believe, but today marks my final official food column for Cup of Jo. While I plan to pop in occasionally, this is my farewell to the weekly rhythm that has been my life for nearly seven incredible years. Seven years of recipes, memories, and connecting with all of you—it’s been an absolute privilege.
As I shift focus to upcoming personal projects, I want to express my gratitude to this amazing community. You’ve taught me so much, from cooking tips to strong opinions about Trader Joe’s! To commemorate this moment, I’ve rounded up some of the most memorable highlights from my time here.
1. Most Satisfying: Showcasing Other Food Writers
The best part of this journey has been introducing you to talented food writers and cookbook authors. From Yasmin Fahr’s Sausage Meatballs with Halloumi to Hetty McKinnon’s Cabbage Carbonara and Dan Pelosi’s comforting Pastina for a Bad Day, sharing these gems has been an honor. The talent in the culinary world never ceases to amaze me.
2. Personal Favorites I Keep Coming Back To
Some recipes have become staples in my own kitchen:
- Brooks Reitz’s Lazy Man’s Ratatouille
- Priya Krishna’s Matar Paneer
- Andrea Nguyen’s Tofu Bánh Mì
And who could forget my own Smashed Pea Toasts with Ricotta or a perfectly roasted chicken? These dishes have been lifesavers time and time again.
3. Most Recent Hit: Blackened Salmon with Tropical Pico
Sara Forte’s Blackened Salmon has been my go-to recipe this year. It’s quick, delicious, and features a tropical pico that you can shortcut with store-bought mango salsa. Highly recommended!
4. By the Numbers: Viral Recipes
The most popular recipes among readers include:
- Ali Stafford’s Same-Day Peasant Bread
- A taste test for the best vanilla ice cream
- Five recipes worth memorizing, like my all-purpose salad dressing
5. Most Controversial Moments
- Fashionably Late Dinner Guests: I learned quickly that most of you strongly prefer guests arrive on time. Lesson noted!
- Family Dinner with Toddlers: My advice to skip formal family dinners with kids under three sparked spirited debate. I still stand by it!
6. Most Fun to Write: The Basics
Simple, practical recipes have always been my sweet spot. Posts like The Only 5 Salad Dressings You Need and An Ode to Frozen Vegetables were a joy to create. On the dessert front, my Old-School Chocolate Mousse and Crisp for All Seasons remain fan favorites.
7. Most Viral Tip: The Potato Salad Trick
Toss your potatoes in dressing while they’re still warm for better flavor absorption—it’s that simple! This tiny tip became the most shared advice I’ve ever written.
8. Most Impactful Reader Comment
One thoughtful reader once wrote: “It’s better to convince many people to eat less meat than a few people to eat no meat.” This perspective resonated so deeply that I’ve repeated it countless times in interviews and events.
9. Most Emotional Piece: Family Dinners as an Empty Nester
Reflecting on family dinners after my kids left home was unexpectedly moving. Writing about these moments reminded me how much eras change and how lucky I’ve been to capture them here.
Thank You, and What’s Next
To everyone who has read, cooked, and commented over the years: thank you. Your enthusiasm has made this journey unforgettable.
While I’m stepping back, you’re in amazing hands with the next generation of talented writers—Alex Beggs, Christina Chaey, Kelsey Miller, and more. I can’t wait to see what they bring to the table in 2025.
And if you ever miss me, you can find me on my newsletter, Dinner: A Love Story.
P.S. For a nostalgic look back, don’t miss my first post for Cup of Jo and tips on getting your kids to talk at dinner.
Here’s to more cooking, connecting, and celebrating life’s delicious moments!
English (US) ·