The Beginning...

I’ve always admired Julia Child. She started her exploration of cooking later in life. My own journey began when I was little, watching my dad make homemade pancakes every Saturday morning (a classic Betty Crocker recipe).

My mom would always make homemade marinara sauce for my birthday and bake amazing banana bread once a month. Food has always been a part of my life. But like many teens, I faced confusion about food. Diet trends, especially after a family cancer diagnosis, made it more about what I couldn’t eat than what I enjoyed. Food became more of a rule book, not an adventure.

Fast forward to 2020, and banana bread made a major comeback. I was fully on board. Dutch oven breads became another baking trend that captured my attention. But my true dive into cooking and exploring cookbooks started in 2021, when J, was 4 months old. This period brought its fair share of stress, but a dear friend had an idea that would change things for me—working our way through the Magnolia cookbooks.

The Plan:

Once a week, we had a family dinner. When it was at my house, I made the entrée, and she brought a dessert, both from the cookbook. We’d work through the recipes together, trying new dishes, and have a “cookbook club” to discuss what we loved, what we’d change, and what we’d try next.

This experience helped my mental health immensely, and I’m forever grateful for the timing, the friendship, and the rekindled love for food and baking.

As a military spouse, we move often—changes are frequent, and it becomes all too easy to let go of roots. But food is what keeps my family and me united. Each dish holds a memory, from restaurants to friends' homes. Food is a great conversation starter, a bridge to people and places.

So, come join me on this journey. Let’s explore food that makes us feel good, both mentally and physically. I try to accommodate all diets and lifestyles—whether gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, pescatarian, herbivores, or omnivores. I’m curious to see where this journey takes me—who I’ll meet, what I’ll learn, and how this passion for food continues to grow.

Below, you’ll find the cookbooks I own, have used (already love and cherish them), and plan to work through. Including other recipes that will be shared from Pinterest, too.



Sharing is so important, especially when it comes to food. Let’s enjoy it family-style!

FEATURED AND CURRENT FAVORITE COOKBOOKS

MAGNOLIA COOKBOOKS (VOLUME 1-3)

If comfort food had a warm, inviting home, it would be in the Magnolia Table cookbook series. Joanna Gaines brings traditional, homestyle recipes to life with a simplicity that makes cooking feel effortless. From buttery biscuits to rich casseroles, savory mains, and sweet treats that taste like they’ve been passed down for generations, these dishes are more than just meals—they’re memories in the making.

What makes this cookbook stand out? The recipes are not only easy to follow but also packed with flavor, making them perfect for busy families, beginner cooks, or anyone craving a little extra comfort on their plate. And as an added bonus, you can watch Joanna bring many of these dishes to life on her Magnolia Table cooking show, adding that extra sprinkle of inspiration.

At Twisted Garnish, we love a good twist, but sometimes, there’s nothing better than classic flavors done right. Magnolia Table takes comfort food to another level, proving that simple ingredients, made with love, can create something truly special. Whether you're gathering around the table with family or looking for a go-to cookbook for everyday meals, this one deserves a spot on your shelf.

HALF BAKED HARVEST

If there’s one thing Half Baked Harvest does best, it’s transforming classic comfort food into something truly spectacular. Think rich, hearty dishes with a gourmet twist—bold flavors, creative ingredients, and that cozy, homemade feel that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just someone who loves a good meal, there’s something here for everyone.

From soul-warming soups to drool-worthy pastas, indulgent brunch spreads, and decadent desserts, every recipe feels like a hug on a plate—but with that extra touch of wow. Perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or when you just want to treat yourself to something downright delicious.

At Twisted Garnish, we’re all about elevating the everyday, and that’s exactly what Half Baked Harvest delivers. It’s comfort food re-imagined—bold, beautiful, and always satisfying. If you’re looking for recipes that blend nostalgia with creativity, this one’s a must-follow.

AMBITIOUS KITCHEN

Eating well shouldn’t mean sacrificing flavor, and Ambitious Kitchen proves that with every recipe. From energizing smoothies and snack-worthy energy balls to lightened-up comfort food classics, this cookbook (and blog) makes healthy eating feel indulgent. Whether you're looking to nourish your body, explore new flavors, or adapt recipes to fit dietary needs, this collection has something for everyone.

One of the best parts? The flexibility. Nearly every recipe comes with easy swaps to make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or refined sugar-free—without losing an ounce of deliciousness. And if you ever need a little extra inspiration, you can watch Monique whip up her creations step by step, making it even easier to bring these vibrant, wholesome dishes to life.

At Twisted Garnish, we believe in balance—fueling the body while indulging in flavors that excite the soul. Ambitious Kitchen nails that balance, proving that healthy food isn’t just good for you—it’s crave-worthy. Whether you're meal-prepping for the week, feeding a family, or just looking for a nourishing twist on your favorite comfort foods, this cookbook is a must-have in your kitchen.

SMITTEN KITCHEN

At Twisted Garnish, we believe that great food should be equal parts indulgent and nourishing—and that’s exactly what Smitten Kitchen delivers. With a knack for incorporating healthier ingredients without sacrificing flavor, every dish feels like a bright, delicious adventure for your taste buds.

What we love most? Smitten Kitchen recipes are designed for the curious cook—those who love a little creativity in the kitchen but still want dishes that are approachable, adaptable, and family-friendly. Whether you're cooking for yourself, your little ones, or a table full of guests, there’s always room to tweak, swap, and personalize each dish to fit your needs.

One of our absolute staples? The Date Shortbread Cookies. Buttery, subtly sweet, and with the perfect hint of chewy, caramelized richness from the dates, they’ve become a must-have in our house. The best part? They can be made ahead, making them the ultimate go-to treat for visiting guests, afternoon tea, or a quick, guilt-free indulgence.

From wholesome breakfast bakes to crave-worthy veggie-packed mains, Smitten Kitchen makes “healthy” taste like something you want to eat—not something you have to eat. And that’s the kind of twisted magic we love to bring into our own kitchens.

Fresh flavors. Thoughtful ingredients. A twist on everyday deliciousness. That’s why Smitten Kitchen has a permanent spot in our cookbook collection.

We're kicking things off with a Vibrant Cosmopolitan Cocktail, complete with a bright lime peel twist that adds just the right pop of color and zing.

This stylish, refreshing cosmo isn’t just the perfect party starter — it’s the first step in a delicious journey. Join me as we dive into new dishes, explore bold flavors, and learn how some of our favorite meals have evolved over time. Let’s shake things up, garnish life with a little twist, and discover the stories behind the plates we love!

Cheers to new adventures — and it all starts right here, with one vibrant, unforgettable sip.

Experience the Excitement

As you sip on this vibrant cosmopolitan, let the flavors transport you on an exciting journey, making every moment a celebration. Cheers to stylish gatherings and unforgettable memories!

Ingredients

• 2 oz Vodka (preferably citron vodka for extra zest)

• 1 oz Cointreau

• 1/2 oz Fresh lime juice (plus extra lime wedges on the side)

• 1/2 oz Cranberry juice (100% juice for a less sweet version)

• Lime twist (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a shaker filled with ice, combine vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice.

2. Shake well until chilled.

3. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.

4. Garnish with a twist of lime peel.