Fresh Garden Pico de Gallo

A fresh homemade salsa recipe made with ripe tomatoes, lime juice, and simple spices. This easy, chunky garden salsa from my mother’s recipe box is perfect for dipping, tacos, and more.

This fresh salsa is one of those recipes that feels like it came straight from the garden to the table. Tucked into my mother’s recipe box, it’s simple, vibrant, and full of fresh flavor.

It’s the kind of recipe that doesn’t rely on anything fancy—just ripe tomatoes, crisp vegetables, a squeeze of lime, and a handful of spices. My mother would often adjust it depending on what she had on hand, sometimes adding cilantro, sometimes leaving it out, but it always turned out delicious.

After a short rest, the flavors come together beautifully, creating a salsa that’s bright, slightly zesty, and perfect for sharing.

Ingredients:

4 large ripe red tomatoes
1 onion
1 bell pepper
1 medium jalapeño or serrano
1 stalk celery
2 garlic clove
1/2 c. cilantro (Optional)
2 Tbs. lime juice
1 tsp. mustard seed
1 tsp. coriander seed, crushed
1/2 tsp. cumin
1/2 Tbs vinegar
Salt to taste 

Directions:

Finely chop the tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, jalapeño (or serrano), celery, garlic, and cilantro (if using).
Place all chopped vegetables in a large bowl and gently mix to combine.
Add the lime juice, mustard seeds, crushed coriander seeds, cumin, vinegar, and salt to taste. Stir well.
Let the salsa rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Tips for Best Success:

• Use fully ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and natural sweetness
• Remove some seeds from tomatoes if you prefer a less watery salsa
• Chop ingredients evenly for a better texture
• Letting it rest is key—don’t skip this step
• Start light with salt, then adjust after resting

Variations & Substitutions:

• No Cilantro: Simply leave it out (just like your mother sometimes did)
• Milder Salsa: Remove seeds and membranes from the jalapeño
• Spicier Version: Use serrano peppers or add an extra pepper
• No Mustard Seed: Can omit if you prefer a more traditional flavor
• Add Fruit: Try diced mango or pineapple for a sweet twist
• Roasted Version: Lightly roast tomatoes and peppers for deeper flavor

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with tortilla chips
• Spoon over tacos, burritos, or nachos
• Use as a topping for grilled chicken or fish
• Add to scrambled eggs or omelets
• Serve alongside burgers or sandwiches

How to Store:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days
• Stir before serving, as juices may settle
• Best enjoyed fresh within the first 1–2 days

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, and it actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge.

Why is my salsa watery?
Tomatoes release juice naturally. You can drain a little or remove seeds before chopping.

Can I blend this salsa?
You can, but it will change the texture to more of a smooth salsa rather than chunky.

Is the mustard seed necessary?
No, but it adds a subtle depth that makes this recipe unique.

Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is best, but bottled will work in a pinch.
 

From-Scratch Sourdough Crackers

Crispy, flavorful crackers made from sourdough discard with simple pantry ingredients.

This recipe is a wonderful way to use up sourdough starter discard—something my mom would have appreciated, since nothing ever went to waste in her kitchen.

With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can turn leftover starter into crispy, flavorful crackers. Sometimes she would add herbs or a little extra seasoning—occasionally even a dash of her homemade hot sauce—to give them a bit of character.

They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for snacking or serving with cheese and dips.

Ingredients: 

1 c. all-purpose or whole wheat Flour
1/2 tsp. flaky sea salt
4 Tbs. butter, room temperature
2 Tbs. dried herbs, of your choice, optional
1/4 to 1/3 c. finely grated hard cheese (Parmesan, Asiago, extra-sharp aged cheddar)
1 c. sourdough starter, unfed/discard
Olive oil, for brushing
coarse salt,  for sprinkling on top

Directions:

In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, butter, herbs (if using), and cheese. Mix until crumbly.

Stir in the starter until a soft dough forms.
Dough should be smooth and workable, not sticky.

Divide dough in half. Shape into flat rectangles, wrap, and refrigerate for 1–2 hours until firm.

Preheat oven to 350°F.

On lightly floured parchment, roll dough very thin—about 1/16 inch thick.
Transfer to baking sheet
Move parchment with dough onto a baking sheet.

Brush lightly with oil. Sprinkle with coarse salt. Cut into 1 to 1 1/4-inch squares using a knife or pizza cutter.

Prick each cracker with a fork to prevent puffing.

Bake for 10 minutes, rotate pan, then bake another 10–15 minutes until golden and crisp.

Cool completely on the pan or a rack—they will crisp more as they cool.

Tips for Best Success:

• Roll dough very thin for crisp crackers
• Chill dough—it makes rolling easier
• Don’t skip docking (fork holes)
• Watch closely at the end—edges brown fast
• Let cool completely before storing

Variations & Substitutions:

• Spicy version: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne ❤️
• Garlic crackers: Add 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Everything seasoning: Sprinkle on top before baking
• Cheese-free: Omit cheese for a simpler cracker
• Whole wheat: Use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with cheese boards
• Pair with soups or chili
• Enjoy with dips or spreads
• Snack on their own

How to Store:

• Room temperature: Airtight container, up to 1 week
• Freeze: Up to 2 months
• If they soften, re-crisp in oven for a few minutes

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why aren’t my crackers crispy?
They may be too thick—roll thinner or bake longer.

Can I skip chilling?
Not recommended—the dough will be harder to handle.

Can I use active starter?
Yes, but discard gives the best flavor and texture.

Do I have to use cheese?
No—it’s optional but adds great flavor.
 

Garlic Parmesan Popcorn (Dad’s Favorite Movie Night Snack)

Buttery homemade popcorn tossed with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese — a simple family treat full of flavor and memories.

Whether it was movie night or just an ordinary evening at home, popcorn was always a welcome treat in our house. My dad loved making a big kettle of it — the smell alone would bring everyone into the kitchen.

This Garlic Parmesan Popcorn was one of his favorite ways to make it. Buttery, savory, and lightly seasoned with herbs, it turns simple popcorn into something extra special. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for sharing.

Ingredients: 

1/4 c. popcorn kernels
4 to 6 cloves garlic, minced or pressed (or ¾ teaspoon garlic powder)
4 Tbs. butter
2 Tbs. grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp. dried thyme
1/8 tsp. dried basil
1/8 tsp. dried oregano
Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste (Optional)
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Directions:

Pop the kernels using your preferred method — stovetop, air popper, or electric popcorn popper. Transfer the popped popcorn to a large mixing bowl, removing any unpopped kernels.

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter.

If using fresh garlic, add it to the melted butter and cook gently for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Do not let it brown, or it may taste bitter.

If using garlic powder, stir it in after removing the butter from heat.

Stir in the Parmesan cheese, thyme, basil, oregano, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until well combined.

Drizzle half of the butter mixture over the popcorn. Cover the bowl with a lid or foil and gently shake to coat evenly.

Repeat with the remaining butter mixture.   Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cover the bowl with a lid or foil and gently shake to coat evenly.

 

Serve immediately and enjoy! 

Tips for Best Success:

• Cook garlic on low heat to prevent bitterness
• Toss popcorn in batches for even coating
• Use a large bowl with a lid for easy mixing
• Add Parmesan while butter is warm so it melts slightly
• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving

Variations and Substitutions:

• Extra cheesy: Add more Parmesan or a sprinkle of cheddar powder
• Spicy version: Increase red pepper flakes or add cayenne
• Herb swap: Try Italian seasoning instead of individual herbs
• Garlic lovers: Add both fresh garlic and a pinch of garlic powder
• Lighter version: Reduce butter slightly or use olive oil

Serving Suggestions:

• Perfect for movie nights
• Serve as a snack or party treat
• Pair with sandwiches for a casual meal
• Add to a snack board with nuts and crackers
• How to Store
• Best enjoyed fresh
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day
• Re-crisp briefly in the oven if needed

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use microwave popcorn?
Yes, but plain popcorn works best so you can control the flavor.

Why is my garlic bitter?
It may have browned—cook it gently over low heat.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use olive oil and omit the Parmesan.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just use a large enough bowl for mixing.

How do I keep it from getting soggy?
Use just enough butter and serve right away.

Onion Dip

 

We love making our own dip and this Onion Dip is no exception.  The ones you buy at the store pale in comparison with this homemade recipe of caramelized onions, cream cheese and sour cream. Years ago, we would take cream cheese and just add a packet of dry onion soup mix. This was good, but this recipe takes it over the top. 

Ingredients

3 Tbsp butter
2 c. onions, chopped
1 to 2 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1/2 tsp. onion powder
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
8 oz.  cream cheese
1/4 c.  mayonnaise
1/2 c. sour cream

Instructions

In a skillet, over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onions.  Season the onions with salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook and stir for about 5 minutes.  Reduce heat to medium low.  Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions start to brown, then add the minced garlic.  Cook for 20 to 25 minutes until the onions are caramelized. Remove from heat and allow the onions to cool.
 In a medium bow, combine cream cheese, sour cream and mayonnaise.  Mix thoroughly.  The mixture should be smooth. Add the cooled caramelized onions to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until just combined.  Place in the refrigerator and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or longer.  This gives the onion dip a chance for the flavors to mix and mingle. Serve at room temperature with some chips.

Granola Bars

It is easy to make your own granola bars with just a few simple ingredients. They are so easy to make.    By making the granola bars at home, you don't have to worry about preservatives, salt and chemicals that the store ones have.  And then, remember, there were all those recalls that granola bars had last year as well.

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup raw honey (Or use 1/4 c. honey and 1/4 c. molasses)
2 Tbs. creamy peanut butter or crunchy
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1/4 to 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/8 tsp. salt

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325°. A baking sheet. Grease a 9-inch square baking dish or use parchment paper in the pan for easy removal of the granola bars.

On a baking sheet, spread the oats and coconut out evenly. Toast oats and coconut, stirring once or twice, until lightly browned and nutty smelling.  

Transfer the oats and coconut to a large mixing bowl.

In a medium saucepan, over medium-low heat, mix honey, peanut butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt together.  Cook and stir until smooth.

Pour the honey mixture over oats and coconut. Stir to coat. Spread mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Bake in the preheated oven until beginning to dry, about 8 to 10 minutes. If you like a crunchier granola bar, bake for 15 minutes.

While the granola is still hot, score the bars into equal portions with your spatula. You don't need to cut all the way to the bottom of the pan. This will make breaking them apart much easier.   

Notes

You can add additional ingredients like chopped pecans, almonds, peanuts, raisins or mini chocolate chips. Or you can add cranberries, blueberries or raspberries.

Baked Potato Chips 

Chips have gotten expensive for what little bit you get in the bag. It is so easy to make your own and put on as much or as little seasoning as you like. This recipe is for baked potato chips, which is healthier than frying them in oil.

Ingredients

2 c. potatoes, sliced thin This is about 2 potatoes
1 Tbs. olive oil
1 tsp. salt, more or less depending on how salty you want the chips to be
Other toppings: black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cheese powder, chili powder, paprika, Etc.

Directions

Preheat oven to 425°.  Adjust the baking rack to the top half of the oven.  Line a baking sheet with a sheet of parchment paper, or lightly spray the baking sheet with cooking oil.

Fill a large bowl with cold water. 

Cut the potatoes with a mandolin about 1/8 inch thick or thinner. Place the potato slices into the bowl of water.  There should be at least 2 inches of water over the top of the sliced potatoes. Soak the potatoes for at least 30 minutes.  This step is important because it removes the starch of the potato, which tends to keep your chips soggy and it burns faster. 

In a large bowl, combine potato slices, and olive oil.  Mix thoroughly. You want to ensure that every slice of potato is evenly coated with olive oil.

Place the sliced potatoes on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Do not overlap them.

Sprinkle the potatoes with salt and any other toppings that you want to put on your potato chips. You can use less salt on them if you prefer.

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown. 

Note

The thinner you slice the potatoes, the crispier they will be. However, they will also burn a lot faster, so you will need to check them more often, so they do not burn.

Onion Brie

This is an easy appetizer to make, but it will look like it took you hours to make.  Caramelized onions and Brie with a hint of sweet and sour. It is the perfect combination to satisfy your hunger.

Ingredients

1 onion, sliced thin
3 Tbs. butter
2 Tbs. brown sugar
1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
1/2 tsp. vinegar
4 oz. Brie cheese, rind removed and softened
1 to 2 tsp. caraway seeds
1 egg
2 tsp. water

Directions

Heat oven to 375°. Line a baking sheet with a sheet of parchment paper.

In a cast iron skillet, melt butter over medium low heat.  Stir in onions, brown sugar and vinegar. Cook and stir until golden brown.  Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside to cool.

Cut Brie into thin slices.  Set aside.

On a lightly floured surface, roll the puff pastry into an 11 x 8-inch rectangle. 

Place the Brie onto the puff pastry, evenly.  

Add the onions evenly over the top of the Brie. Sprinkle the caraway seeds over the top. 

Starting on the long side, roll up the puff pastry like a jellyroll.  Only roll this one side to the middle of the puff pastry. Roll up the other side until it meets in the center with the other side that you just rolled. 

Cut the log into 1/2 inch slices.  Place the puff pastry cut side down onto the prepared baking sheet. With your hand, flatten the puff pastry to 1/4-inch thickness.  

Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator to chill for 15 minutes.

In a bowl, combine egg and water. Mix well.  Brush the egg mixture over the top of each puff pastry slice. 

Bake 12 to 14 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve warm.

Easy, Healthy Granola

 

Making your own granola is easy, and it costs a lot less than buying granola at the store. You can add any dried fruit that you like for the best tasting granola. This is perfect to take on the go, or just to snack on when you are feeling hungry and wanting something to tide you over until meal time.

Ingredients

4 c. old-fashioned oatmeal (you can use quick oats)
1 1/2 c. nuts or seeds or a mixture of both
3/4 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 c. honey
1/2 c. melted coconut oil or olive oil (is best)
1 tsp. vanilla
2/3 c. raisins or other dried fruit, chopped if they are large pieces
1/2 c. coconut (optional)
1/2 c. mini chocolate chips (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, combine oatmeal, nuts or seeds, salt and cinnamon. Mix to combine.

Pour in the honey, oil and vanilla. Mix well. You want to ensure that everything is lightly coated.

Turn the contents out into the prepared baking sheet. Spread it out as evenly as you can.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally during baking time. Bake until the granola is a light golden brown.  The granola will still be soft at this point, but it will crisp up more as it cools. 

Set the baking sheet in a cool place to cool completely for about 45 minutes. 

Top with the dried fruit, coconut and chocolate chips if desired.

Break the granola into pieces if you want it in big chunks. Or stir it around with a spoon for smaller pieces.

Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature.

Kettle Popcorn

Kettle popcorn is an old-fashioned treat, often bought at a fair or carnival. But you can easily make your own for just a fraction of the cost, and you can have it as often as you like.

Ingredients

1/4 c. vegetable oil, or coconut oil
1/2 c. popcorn kernels
1/4 c. white sugar or brown sugar
salt

Directions

In a large pot that has a lid, or a whirly pop stovetop popper, heat the oil over medium heat.

Add 3 kernels in the hot oil. Wait until those 3 kernel pop before adding in the rest of the popcorn and the sugar. Wait 30 seconds so all the kernels come up to temperature. 

Cover and start shaking the pot constantly.  Or if you have a whirly pop, cover, stir and shake the popper as directed. Continue shaking or stirring the pot until the popping has slowed to 1 pop every 2 seconds.  Remove from heat, but continue to shake or stir until the popping stops. 

Immediately pour the popcorn into a large bowl and allow the popcorn to cool before eating. The sugar on the popcorn is very hot and you could burn your fingers. 

Season with salt to taste if desired and shake or stir to mix in.  

Notes

You can use brown sugar or half confectioners sugar to half white or brown sugar. 

If you want more buttery flavor, melt some butter and drizzle it over the popped corn while it is till hot.  Shake or stir to distribute evenly.

Pimiento Cheese Ball

Buying premade cheese balls at the grocery store are expensive. Did you know that is it just as easy to prepare your own Pimiento Cheese Ball at home at just a fraction of the cost? Try making your own this year. You'll wonder why you didn't do this before.

Ingredients

1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened room temperature
2 c. sharp or extra sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
2 green onions, chopped
1 (2 oz.) jar pimientos, drained
2 Tbs. butter, melted
2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
shaved pecans (optional)
Crackers

Directions

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until fluffy with an electric mixer. 

Add the cheddar cheese, onions, pimientos, melted butter and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined. 

Shape into a ball form, but leave the bottom of the ball flat, so it does not roll away and off the plate.

Press the fresh parsley and or shaved pecans over the top and sides of the cheese ball. 

Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Gingerbread Popcorn

 

If you love gingerbread, you will really enjoy this Gingerbread Popcorn recipe. It has all the flavors of gingerbread and caramel rolled into one great taste. The recipe is easy and simple to make. It is perfect for gift giving, or as a sweet snack for you and your family.

Ingredients

20 c. popcorn
1 c. butter
2 c. brown sugar
1/2 c. corn syrup
1/4 c. molasses
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ginger
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/4 tsp. cloves
1/4 tsp. allspice
1 tsp. baking soda
3 tsp. vanilla

Directions 

Preheat oven to 250°. Grease two 13 x 9-inch pans or a large roasting pan.

Place popcorn in a large bowl or a large roasting pan. Set aside while you make the caramel coating.

In a large saucepan, melt the butter.  Stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, molasses, salt, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. Cook and stir over medium heat until it comes to a boil. Boil for 5 minutes, without stirring.

Remove from heat. Stir in the baking soda and vanilla. The mixture will foam up, but don't worry, as that is what it is supposed to do. Mix thoroughly.

Pour the hot caramel sauce over the popped corn. Stir the popcorn, so that every piece has a coating of caramel sauce. 

Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.  

Cool and enjoy.  Store any leftovers, if you have any, in an airtight container.

One Bowl Cheese Puffs

Cheese Puffs that quickly go together in one bowl.  Light as air, cheesy snacks. They are perfect for those time you want something to snack on or to serve as an appetizer.

Ingredients

1 to 1 1/2 c. flour
1 Tbs. sugar
1 1/2 tsp. dry mustard
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper (Optional)
1 pkg yeast
1 stick butter or margarine, softened
1/2 c. hot tap water 115°
1 2/3 c. grated sharp cheddar cheese
2 eggs
1 egg white, slightly beaten
salt

Directions

Grease 2 baking sheets. 

In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup flour, sugar, mustard, garlic powder, cayenne pepper and yeast. 

Stir in the butter or margarine.

Pour in the hot tap water. Beat with an electric mixer that has a dough hook attached, at medium speed for 2 minutes. If you don't have a dough hook, beat the mixture with the beaters.

Add the eggs and 1/2 cup flour.  Beat at high speed for 2 minutes. Scrape the bowl occasionally.

Using the dough hook or a wooden spoon, stir in enough additional flour to make a stiff batter.

Drop the mixture by slightly rounded teaspoonfuls, about 2 inches apart, onto prepared baking sheets. 

Place in a warm location, free from drafts, until they are light and spongy looking. This can take about an hour. 

Very gently, brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg white. Sprinkle lightly with salt.

Bake at 375º for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from baking sheets and cool on wire racks.

Caramel Popcorn

The Best Caramel Popcorn

Caramel popcorn is one of our favorite treats. This wonderful, sweet snack is so easy to make.  Best of all, it is fresh and all natural without the preservatives and caramel coloring that the store bought caramel popcorn contains.

Ingredients

1 c. butter * see note below
2 c. brown sugar
1/2 c. corn syrup
1 tsp. salt
2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. vanilla
24 c. popped popcorn (makes a big roaster full)
1 lb. peanuts (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 250°.

Pop the popcorn kernels until you have 24 cups of popped corn. For me, that almost fills my large roasting pan. Pour the popcorn in a large roasting pan, or a big bowl. Add the peanuts to the popcorn.

Melt the butter in a large saucepan, over low heat. Stir in brown sugar, syrup, and salt. Turn the heat up to medium. Stirring constantly, bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Boil, without stirring for 5 minutes.

Remove from heat. Carefully stir in the vanilla and soda.  The baking soda causes the caramel sauce to bubble and rapidly grow in size. This is normal. So, don’t be alarmed when you see it rising toward the top of the pot.

Quickly pour the sauce over the popcorn in roaster. Stir the popcorn with a wooden spoon, making sure that all the popcorn has an even coating of yummy caramel sauce.

Bake in the oven for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.

Remove the roaster from oven and allow it to cool. However, if your family is like mine, we usually can’t wait to grab a bowl and fill it up with the caramel popcorn.  Store the leftover caramel popcorn in an airtight container, if you have any left. 

* You can use margarine instead of butter,  or use half butter and half margarine.
You can add nuts in with the popcorn just before you pour the caramel coating over the top.