Happily Cooking

Skip to Recipe Summer is when I most miss being a kid. The uncomplicated, unhurried delight of it all: waking up late without any plans, break from school & homework, eating mangoes from the trees, and sipping on lemonades. These days, my summers are hardly indistinguishable from the rest of the year — busy, over-scheduled, gone in a snap — with the exception of more sunshine. And there is, as always, the matter of what to eat three times a day. I guess this is what adulting is all about! The last thing I want to do nowadays is spend more time in a balmy kitchen. Hence, I am always on the look out for recipes that are quick, easy and require minimal effort. This Sun-Dried Tomato & Burrata Pasta is truly one of those all-in-one dinners that everyone at the table will love. Al dente pasta tossed with luscious sun-dried tomatoes and finished off with fresh burrata cheese on top that melts into every bite. Bold, cream...

Skip to Recipe Hot isn’t the only way to drink coffee! In the last few years, iced coffee drinks have exploded in popularity. Though it may seem overwhelming, making coffee shop-worthy beverage at home is way simpler than you think. This Iced Mocha Latte comes together in just a matter of minutes that is way less time than heading to your favorite coffee shop and that , too, for just a fraction of the cost. It is wonderfully rich, creamy, indulgent and the perfect way to cool down on those hot summer days! Whether you’re starting your day with a refreshing sip or seeking a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, this indulgent beverage is sure to satisfy your coffee cravings and sweet tooth alike. INGREDIENTS FOR THE ICED MOCHA LATTE The ingredient list for this iced coffee drink is ridiculously simple! Here’s what you’ll need: ESPRESSO: Make it using a machine or use strongly brewed instant coffe...

Skip to Recipe Cold soup- it sounds like a contradiction in itself, and might seem a bit strange to you. However, on those sweltering days when the thought of getting behind the stove is too much to bear, the chilled Spanish Gazpacho comes to you as a summer savior. This vibrant Classic Gazpacho is packed with all the goodness of fresh summer produce like tomatoes, crisp cucumbers and sweet bell peppers- a taste of summer you’ll come back to time and again. WHAT IS GAZPACHO? Gazpacho is a traditional cold tomato-based soup that originated in the Andalusia region of Southern Spain and is loved for its refreshing and vibrant flavors. The southern Spanish region of Andalusia is incredibly hot during the summer months and the creation of this soup was meant to cool people down and keep them hydrated. Originally, it is made from a combination of fresh vegetables, all of which are blended together until smooth, then ref...

Skip to Recipe A cool, citrus-scented glass of iced tea is a lovely antidote to the summer heat, instantly providing a much-needed pick-me-up. Ditch the store bought ones that are full of refined sugar, artificial ingredients and high in calories. Making your own iced tea at home with the real fruit is definitely tastier and healthier. The Lemon Iced Tea recipe brings together the classic charm of ice tea with the vibrant zing of fresh citrus. WHY THIS RECIPE WILL BECOME YOUR NEW FAVORITE There’s a lot to love about this Homemade Lemon Iced Tea. Here’s what makes it a favorite in my home: PERFECT SUMMER BEVERAGE: Whether it is a pool party, BBQ with friends or family or just a relaxing day at home, this is the ultimate thirst-quencher for summer. EASY AND QUICK: You only need few basic ingredients and 10 minutes (and some time to chill) to make the perfect ...

Skip to Recipe As the weekend rolls around, the favourite dishes from the takeaway menu call louder than ever. However, I love imitating those recipes at home as they take out the time, energy and expense of going out. Plus, they taste just as good as the real thing. The recipe I am sharing this week is inspired by the staple appetizer, Chicken Lettuce Wraps at P.F. Chang's restaurant. These Chicken Lettuce Wraps feature ground chicken and veggies in an addictive sweet and salty sauce all nestled in crisp butter lettuce leaves. The perfect low-carb dinner for busy weeknights! WHY THIS RECIPE WILL BECOME YOUR NEW FAVORITE There’s a lot to love about these Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps. Here’s what makes them a favorite in my home: HEALTHIER TAKE ON A RESTAURANT CLASSIC: These wraps are made using fresh ingredients and have the same flavor as you would enjoy in a Chinese resta...

Skip to Recipe There’s something special about slowing down and treating yourself to a beautiful breakfast or brunch on a bright sunny morning. Since it is strawberry season, head to the farmers market or pile up those cartons of juicy berries at the grocery store because I’ve got the perfect breakfast for using those little beauties. This Toast features roasted juicy and sweet strawberries, creamy, luxurious whipped ricotta and a drizzle of honey topped on a slice of perfectly toasted crusty bread. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking to elevate your breakfast game, or craving a quick but fancy snack, this toast is here to make your day. WHY ROASTING THE STRAWBERRIES IS WORTH THE EFFORT Roasting the strawberries might sound so fancy, but it is incredibly easy and it is what takes the recipe to a whole new level. The process brings out the natural sweetness of the strawberries and intensifies their flavor. The ca...