Nine Favorite Things.
Thanks for joining me for another Nine Favorite Things post.
Welcome to the very last Favorite’s post of January 2020. February 1st is this Saturday (also my brother Brendan’s birthday), and as always, I’m shocked how quickly the month flew by. The year is off to a good start though, wouldn’t you say? I’ve already shared what may end up as some of everyone’s favorite recipes for the year, made an appearance on GMA (more below), made the Create and Cultivate 100 list (more below), and have a couple of fun projects in the works as well.
What’s even more exciting? We’re starting to plan a few HBH Super Simple Cookbook events for this spring. We’re teaming up with Williams-Sonoma and heading to a few cities for live cooking demos and signings at their stores. I did my first event with WS in December at their Columbus Circle store…I couldn’t have had more fun. It was amazing to meet so many of you and I’m so excited to do more soon! I can’t say the exact cities and dates just yet. But I do know the first stop will be in LA in early March! More info on this to come, but I wanted to let you all know that we’re in the planning stages! Of course, if you have thoughts, suggestions, and or ideas on how to make these events even better, please share!!
PS. speaking of the cookbook, it’s currently on sale on Amazon at about 40% off. No one knows how long these deals last, so if you’re still in need of a copy, now’s the time.
In Gerard family news, my younger brother Red is competing in X-Games this weekend. He made it into the top three in qualifiers on Thursday. I’ll report back on Monday to let you know how the finals went down. But if you follow HBH on Instagram, I’m sure I’ll have an update there much sooner. GO RED!
Coming up this week, I’ll be switching gears just a little in prep for the Super Bowl this Sunday. Kicking things off with a healthy burger recipe, sharing a go-to dinner, a sandwich that’s way too good…and a bit cheesy. Then on to my favorite game day appetizer. And of course, something sweet to enjoy on Friday
Question: is there anything you’d like to see in February on HBH?
Lastly, if you’re catching up on blog posts from the week, be sure to sign up for our daily newsletters. They’ll help you to stay up to date with everything that’s happening here, as well as fun content you’ll only get via email. And of course, if you’re meal planning today, don’t forget to check out my menu below (it’s #9 on the favorite’s list).
Hope you enjoy this week’s Nine Favorite Things!
1. GMA + Create and Cultivate.
Good Morning America…
If you follow on Instagram, you may have seen that I was on Good Morning America again this week! Do you remember when I went to NYC back in December? Well, the main reason was to film a segment with Ginger Zee for her Cook Club! I went to her house and filmed with her in her kitchen. She is the sweetest and kindest person, and I loved cooking with her so much. We made the Meanest Greenest Pizza and the Moroccan Chickpea Soup from HBH Super Simple cookbook. Fingers crossed that I will get the opportunity to do more like this in the future, I had so much!
You can watch the full segment here. And make sure you sign up for #gingerscookclub on Facebook!
Create & Cultivate…
I am so excited to share that I made this years Create & Cultivate 100 list in the FOOD category. It’s such an honor to have made this list. You can read my full interview here and learn about the other phenomenal 99 women who are being honored this year.
Related Reading…other highly notable Create & Cultivate recipients:
2. What’s your favorite comfort food?
I need your help and I’m curious…
What are your very favorite comfort foods?
What do you love most about them, and what could make them even better?
PS. 10 of my favorite comfort recipes on HBH.
30 Minute Coconut Milk Braised Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Rice
One Pot Creamy French Onion Pasta Bake
One Skillet Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Orzo
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Rice Casserole
Brown Butter Brussels Sprout and Bacon Ravioli
Garlic Butter Creamed Spinach Salmon
30 Minute Coq au Vin Chicken Meatballs
Creamy Wild Rice Chicken Soup with Roasted Mushrooms
Cheddar Pierogi with Caramelized Onions and Bacon
One Skillet Lemon Butter Chicken and Orzo
3. a few kitchen/dining finds…
4. favorite questions of the week.
q: What’s something unexpected that HBH brought into your life?
a: Pretty much everything about HBH has been unexpected and incredible. I was very shy growing up, and really still am. But growing HBH to where it is now, and connecting with so many of you guys, has cracked my shell. I’ve personally grown so much!! Above all, HBH has brought me so much happiness. Cheesy, but true! Just ask anyone who knew me as a teen!!
q: What do you do to destress and take your mind off work?
a: I’m pretty horrible at relaxing. But my version is to light one of my favorite The Little Market candles, watch Netflix, and reply to my DMs (I love doing this + Q&As). For a relaxing skincare routine, I’ve been loving my Necessaire body lotion, Sunday Riley Good Genes, Vintner’s Daughter active botanical serum, Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil and Squalane + Omega Repair Cream. And if you can splurge, I love Augustinus Badar The Rich Cream). This is “down” time for me…relaxing just isn’t really my thing.
q: How do you move past the fear of failing?
a: You just have to do it. That’s really all there is to it. You’ll never know if something is going to work until you try. Often times, the things I’m most afraid of end up being the best things, especially career-wise. I’ve kind of learned to be ok with being a little uncomfortable. It just means I’m stepping outside of my comfort zone…and that’s ok.
q: Do you have other people test your recipes before publishing or do you do it all yourself?
a: For my cookbooks, the recipes are triple-tested. For this last book, I had two recipe testers plus myself testing the recipes. For the blog, it’s just my family and me testing recipes…multiple times!
5. newest videos.
One Skillet Sun-Dried Tomato Tuscan Chicken and Orzo…creamy, garlicky, and certainly everyone’s favorite.
Chipotle Tortilla and Rice Soup…So. Much. Flavor. We love this soup.
6. Cheer on Netflix? Do I need to watch it?
Have you watched Cheer on Netflix? Cheer is a new competitive cheerleading documentary. I swear every other thing I’ve read/seen this week has been about it. To be honest, I haven’t watched it yet. But after seeing how so many people are obsessed, I’m wondering if it’s something that may be worth watching? I feel like it’s a time investment though, so let me know if you guys think it’s worth it!
Also, what else should I be watching on Netflix? Or on Disney Plus? I love editing photos with something on in the background while I work. It’s my “relaxing time” since I really don’t have to use my brain to edit photos. I feel like I only watch reruns of Gossip Girl and Gilmore Girls, both great, but I need something new!
Please share your favorites!
7. a few links i am loving…
how Cheer’s superstar coach Monica gets it done…you see, Cheer is everywhere.
Jen and Brad survived a 3-Year renovation…apparently, everyone is also talking about Jen and Brad.
the best clean skincare brands…from my most trusted beauty source.
5 ways to sneak exercise into your everyday life…we are all busy, but we have to make the time.
taste test what’s the best supermarket salsa…which is your favorite?
43 cheap basics at Nordstrom…which ones are you picking up?
making the ultimate salad with Gwyneth…this salad looks so good, plus great salad tips too.
design mistake: when to hire vs. when to DIY…information we all need.
this ’90s material is making a comeback at Anthropologie…at first I was mixed, but I’m into it.
how French girls are wearing the anti skinny jean trend…if you live in your skinny jeans, but need to switch it up.
a hot bean bag for your weary feet…I need this.
7 practical books about diet, lifestyle, and aging well…if you love to read.
14 Valentine’s Day gifts that are fun and romantic…and available on Amazon.
10 architectural treasures to visit in Nepal…if you have upcoming travel plans.
6 cute airport outfits that don’t involve leggings…comfortable and cozy, but cute too.
ankle boots in the unexpected color we need for 2020…I have to say, I’m very into this color.
this $15 condiment is so good…I would certainly agree with this statement.
the best cleaning product only costs about $1…and of course, I have them all in my kitchen now.
not seeing results from your skincare…here’s what you need to know.
8. Everyday essentials…
9. this week’s dinners…
Monday: Weeknight Thai Chicken Meatball Khao Soi
Tuesday: Instant Pot Cacio e Pepe with Crispy Garlic Basil Chickpeas
Wednesday: Roasted Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Olive Dressing
Thursday: Slow Cooker Carne Asada Tostadas (recipe in the HBH Super Simple Cookbook)
Friday: One Pot Creamy Tuscan Pesto and Artichoke Pasta
Saturday Baking: Fudgy Avocado Brownies with Chocolate Fudge Frosting
Sunday Brunch: Simplest Whipped Ricotta Toast with Lemon Thyme Honey
Finally, check out all the past Nine Favorite Things posts here.
Hi-LOVE you! So, should you watch Cheer? YES. ‘Nuff said. Next, comfort food: mashed potatoes. Really in any form but there’s a dish I made out of poverty in college that is still a go-to. Gold potatoes, cooked then mashed with milk, butter, salt & pepper. Heat a decent amount of butter in a non stick pan on the stove top, put the mashed potatoes all over the bottom, then veg on top of those topped with some grated cheddar cheese. Cover pan with foil, lower the heat a bit. The bottom gets nice & crispy while the veg cooks & the cheese melts. In college I used frozen mixed veg but now I just use prepped veg, usually roasted.
Lastly, would you consider doing a few more vegetarian mains? I fell like there’s been a pretty heavy emphasis on chicken & bacon this month…
Thanks for all you do-I hope your family is so proud of you-best-D.
Ooo that sounds super good and nothing I have seen before! I will try to incorporate more vegetarian dishes! Thank you Dale! xTieghan
Trader Joe’s has a delicious, much less expensive, chili crisp! So good! Love your 9 posts!
Thank you so much Robin! xTieghan
Instead of $30 for a flax seed bag, I use 2 rice bags I made myself, at less than $5 for both. Heat in the microwave or chill in freezer. One on my feet, the other is usually at my side. My dog likes to rub his back against it, then he lets out this huge sigh followed by little dog snores. ?
Haha aw that is too cute! Thank you Kim! xTieghan
Hi Tieghan! Somewhat off-topic, but I just wanted to let you know that I made the blue cheese bites appetizer from Super Simple for company yesterday and it was a HUGE HIT and so easy. I made a double batch (one with blue cheese, one with feta for the blue cheese haters) and I was worried I made too much, but it ALL got devoured. Thank you for the awesome recipe! <3
Wow that is amazing!! I am so glad you all loved that recipe Veronica! Thank you! xTieghan
All of your comfort foods are so good! I love how you always include plenty of vegetables without compromising on indulgence 🙂
Thank you so much Marian! xTieghan
Major congratulations on the well-deserved recognition! I was looking through the other interviews too, and I love that Minnie Mouse was involved, HAHA.
Yes!! Thank you Liz! xTieghan
Yes! taking the time to watch Cheer is worth it. My husband even watched it with me and loved it. You become very invested in all the kids on the show. Favourite comfort food any type of chicken soup (most recently your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup) and creamy pasta dishes…deadly good.
Hi Sheila! Yes! So glad you have been loving the gnocchi soup! xTieghan
My favorite comfort food? Spicy lemon pasta! Butter/EVOO + garlic + sambal oelek or chili flakes in a skillet until fragrant, whisk in some lemon juice (+zest if you have it), then toss with hot long-cut pasta and parmesan cheese. Spaghetti or fettuccine is best, but when I’m in a hurry ramen noodles are excellent as well. Sometimes, when I’m in the mood for creamier pasta, I toss in a little of the cooking water when i add my parm. So yum! I meal prep it with half-cooked ramen for cold lunches, and then I can just add a couple tablespoons of water and microwave for fresh, spicy, zesty noodles! Perfect pick-me-up on a long day, and the ingredients are dirt cheap!
BTW – Can’t wait to try your Khao Soi this week!
YUM!! That sounds so amazing! I hope you love the khao soi, Kate! Let me know how it turns out for you! Thanks! xTieghan
Hey Tieghan!
I LOVE your avocado brownies and citrus toast this week! Haha I haven’t gotten around to making them but the toast is at the top of the list!☺️ In February, I’d love some more yeast bread recipes and maybe some elegant (but easy) cookies? Ooh! Or chocolate chip bagels!? haha
On Netflix, I HIGHLY recommend: “Worlds most extraordinary homes,” “Our Planet,” and “Madam secretary!” These are all of my favorites!!
Also, my family was in CO this past week spending time in Breckinridge and they heard about the X games! Wooh!! I’m so excited for Red. There was also the Beaver Creek Winter Culinary weekend with Andrew Zimmerman and a bunch of other chefs, as well as the International Snow Sculpture event going on!! Lol.
You should try to go!☺️❤️?
Anyways, I hope you’re staying warm and are enjoying the weekend!!
Hi Kristin! I hope you love the citrus toast! Let me know how it turns out for you! Also, that is so fun that they were in Colorado! How did they like it?! I hope you have an amazing week! xTieghan
Hoping you will be doing a book signing/cooking demo in the Washington DC area!
I would love to get there! xTieghan
I love your Sunday posts. I mean, I love them all, but it’s become my Sunday routine to read them with my last hot drink before bed. Means Sunday’s always end on a happy note ? xx
Hi Kelly! Aw that is so sweet to hear! Thank you! xTieghan
Try Virgin River on Netflix, I really enjoyed it. Thanks for all the great recipes!
Thank you Kathy! xTieghan
Tieghan, I knew the first time that I made your “Pull Apart Pumpkin Cinnamon Bread” many many years ago that you and Half Baked Harvest were going places…and so you have! You have built this from the ground up with hard work, determination and talent. As a long time spectator it has been a pleasure watching you grow and become who you are today. The Create & Cultivate 100 list is a well deserved honor and I am so proud of YOU! Your interview is excellent and your photo shows the beautiful adorable young lady your followers have come to know and love. Congratulations! Thank-you!
Aw this is so amazing to read Ellen! Thank you so much for continuing to support my blog and enjoy the recipes I create! Thank you so much Ellen! xTieghan
For netflix I would suggest watching the Vampire Diaries (if you haven’t yet) or Good Witch. The later is much more Hallmark Channel friendly.
Thank you Stephanie! xTieghan
YES! you should watch CHEER, I hope they do a second season.
salmon with garlic spinach and naan, I make these once a week. my husband would eat that naan everyday! Crispy quinoa burger is next on my long list of HBH recipes to try! thank you for such inspiring recipes!!
Thank you so much Kris! I hope you love that recipe! xTieghan
Afterlife on Netflix. Sad And funny, totally awesome!! Anne with an E! Ozark! Frankie and Grace! That will keep you busy for awhile ?
I will check it out!! Thank you Robin! xTieghan
How about a really awesome Bloody Mary recipe??
Ooo I think this needs to come soon! Thank you Robin! xTieghan
Looks sooo good. Are these 10 recipes featured in the cookbook?
Hi! These recipes are not! All of the recipes in the cookbook are different from the ones on the site! xTieghan