Chilaquiles ~

Tostones ~

Shrimp Summer Rolls ~

Fra Diavolo ~

Paella ~

Chilaquiles ~ Tostones ~ Shrimp Summer Rolls ~ Fra Diavolo ~ Paella ~

Cooking nights started as a way for me and two of my friends to try out new recipes that we might not have been brave enough to try without some encouragement.

They’ve become something much more. Our cooking nights are like mini retreats!
Encouraging and up-lifting. Relaxing but invigorating. Adventurous.

Nourish Your Whole Self

I feel beyond blessed to be able to homeschool my girls! I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

But sometimes, I start to loose myself. I feel overwhelmed, irritable and everything seems like a chore.

When I notice myself feeling stuck like this, I know I need to recharge. To fully be myself for a bit. I need to laugh. And maybe, eat something yummy too!

That’s when I know it’s time to get my girls together for a cooking night!

My soul, as well as my body, is fed during these special get-togethers. As we cook, we can’t help but talk about all of the things that are weighing on our hearts and minds.

Cooking without the kids running around means we can slow down, take a few breaths, enjoy spending time with close friends, cooking food we’re excited to try!

Cooking nights let us take a break from caring for others to care for ourselves.

Host Your Own Cooking Night

What to do after you’ve picked a date and invited friends…

Decide On The Dishes ~ Be adventurous!! Trying an exotic ingredient or a new cuisine together is exciting! And, you don’t have to worry about your kids not liking it and having to hear them complain!!!
Find Speciality Ingredients ~ Whole Foods, local markets, Produce Junction, Trader Joes and Amazon are all great places to find interesting ingredients for your dishes.
Keep It Low Key ~ The kids are put to bed or at least calming down for the night. Then all you need is some happy music and a drink! Some nights call for a cocktail or wine but a non-alcoholic drink like a strawberry lemonade or boba chai is always a good choice too!
Cook and Connect ~ It’s easier to let your guard down and be authentic with your friends while everyone is peeling, chopping and stirring.
Laughing, crying and dance parties (if you know me, you know I love a good Kitchen Dance Party!) are all encouraged while you cook!
And don’t be afraid to make mistakes or even seriously dislike the food you end up making! I have definitely set off a few smoke alarms and made some dishes my friends hated! Believe me, it’s all part of the fun.

Cooking nights with friends are one of the easiest ways to feed yourself, both physically and emotionally!
It’s like getting to escape with your friends on a mini girls trip! Delicious (exotic) food and great conversations leave you feeling relaxed and renewed.

If you’re stuck on what to make, check out Pinterest or some of our favorite cookbooks and chefs for a little inspiration:
Cook This Book by Molly Baz
Genius Recipes by Kristen Miglore
Half Baked Harvest Everyday by Tieghan Gerard
Tiffycooks.com- easy and delicious Asian recipes
Maya @fitgreenmind - for ALL the veggies!!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your besties, a few new ingredients and go cook up some memories! (I couldn’t help myself!)

If you’re looking for another great way to connect more deeply with friends check out The Essential Guide to Speaking Kind Words!

Feed Your Body and Soul: The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Nights