As the final moments of 2018 faded into memory, we warmly welcomed the promise and potential of 2019! It truly felt like the fastest year yet, a sentiment many wise souls had shared with me about the accelerating pace of time as one grows older. This year, that wisdom resonated more profoundly than ever before. While it swept by with remarkable speed, I find myself not saddened to bid it farewell, but rather looking forward with eager anticipation.
Overall, 2018 wasn’t an inherently “bad” year, per se. It simply wasn’t my absolute favorite, a year marked by a blend of challenges and triumphs, much like life often presents. We certainly navigated our fair share of ups and downs, as most families do, but amidst it all, there were countless silver linings. Notably, fewer things around the house broke down, and I even managed to find a coffee maker that, incredibly, has lasted longer than three months! And no, it’s not the same one I enthusiastically wrote about in my 2017 year in review. But before I delve deeper into the personal experiences that shaped our year, let’s dive into what truly excites me: food!
Another year has rolled by, leaving behind a trail of delicious culinary creations and, inevitably, a mountain of dirty dishes. This past year, I proudly published 146 brand new recipes on Simply Scratch, an impressive ten more than the previous year! Beyond new content, I also dedicated time to refreshing a dozen or so older, cherished recipes with vibrant new photography, breathing fresh life into timeless favorites. There’s a unique joy in looking back at the recipes I’ve crafted throughout the year. Each one is a flavorful bookmark, transporting me back to a specific time, place, or moment in my life. It’s a culinary diary, filled with memories tied to ingredients and techniques. To celebrate this delicious journey, I’ve meticulously scoured the past 365 days, compiling a curated list of my personal favorites—recipes I adore, recipes I simply love a lot. This list also includes a few standout dishes that I know resonated deeply with you, my wonderful readers.
My Top 18 Favorite Recipes from 2018: A Culinary Journey
Without further ado, and in no particular order, here are my top 18 culinary highlights from 2018—the recipes that left a lasting impression on my palate and, hopefully, on yours too!
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My Grandma’s Rice Pudding Recipe – This recipe holds a special place in my heart, evoking warm memories and a profound sense of comfort. While it might not win any awards for its visual appeal, its creamy texture and comforting sweetness are absolutely unparalleled. It’s a taste of pure nostalgia and a reminder of grandma’s enduring love.
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Chardonnay Italian Sausage Bites with Spicy Mustard Dip – This appetizer is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a staple at our family Christmas gatherings, thanks to my brother-in-law, Jeff (Hi Jeff!). The simplicity of these savory sausage bites, perfectly complemented by a zesty mustard dip, makes them incredibly addictive and a must-have for any get-together.
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Panfried Morel Mushrooms – These exquisite mushrooms made the list for two compelling reasons: first, my wonderful husband personally foraged them just for me, adding an extra layer of love and effort. Second, their unique, earthy flavor and delicate texture truly make them a special treat, a culinary indulgence that perfectly captures the essence of spring.
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Greek Chicken Couscous Bowls – The secret to these incredibly flavorful bowls lies in the homemade Greek seasoning, which elevates every bite. But let’s be honest, it’s also the generous feta shards, creamy tzatziki, briny Kalamata olives, and tangy peperoncinis that create a vibrant symphony of tastes and textures. It’s a complete meal bursting with Mediterranean freshness.
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Cheesy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet – This is the ultimate weeknight hero! A dreamy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying one-pan meal that brings together savory beef, fluffy rice, and plenty of melty cheese. It’s quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear!
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Homemade Pretzel Bread and Ciabatta Bread – How could I possibly choose a single favorite between these two completely different yet equally incredible homemade breads? Each offers a unique baking experience and endless possibilities. The pretzel boules were transformed into impressive soup bowls, while the ciabatta provided the perfect, airy base for a hearty meat lover’s pizza. Baking bread from scratch is such a rewarding endeavor, and these two recipes were definite highlights.
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Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp with Coconut Pineapple Yogurt Dip – This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it was the very first dish I prepared in my brand-new air fryer! The magic of transforming succulent shrimp, dipped in a flavorful coconut batter and coated in shredded coconut, into crispy perfection in mere minutes was truly captivating. The tropical yogurt dip makes it even more irresistible.
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Berry Spring Salad with Fresh Raspberry Balsamic Vinaigrette – If there’s one salad I could happily enjoy every single day, it’s this vibrant and refreshing creation. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures: tender grilled rosemary balsamic chicken, crispy bacon bits, a medley of fresh berries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy pistachios, all nestled on a bed of crisp spring greens and drizzled with a homemade raspberry balsamic vinaigrette. It’s light, satisfying, and bursting with seasonal goodness.
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Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Summer Vegetables – This recipe was an absolute hit with so many of you, and it’s easy to see why! It’s the epitome of effortless summer cooking: light, incredibly flavorful, seasonal, and ridiculously easy to prepare. Just toss everything on a sheet pan, and let the oven do the work for a delicious and vibrant meal.
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Grilled Peach, Goat Cheese, and Prosciutto Flatbread – To describe this flatbread as merely “phenomenal” would be a colossal understatement. The magical combination of sweet, smoky grilled peaches, tangy goat cheese, salty prosciutto, and a drizzle of golden honey creates an explosion of flavors that is utterly irresistible. It’s sophisticated, delicious, and perfect for a summer evening.
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Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Butterscotch Pretzel Cookies – These cookies are a celebration of all my favorite flavors and textures wrapped into one glorious treat! The perfect balance of sweet chocolate and butterscotch, with the unexpected crunch and savory kick of pretzels, all enhanced by a sprinkle of sea salt. They are truly an experience in every bite.
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Chorizo Sweet Potato Chilaquiles – This hearty and comforting dish takes breakfast or brunch to a whole new level. Eggs are baked to perfection with spicy chorizo, crispy sweet potato tortilla chips, all swimming in a rich, fire-roasted tomato sauce. It’s a flavor-packed and satisfying meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
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Chicken Tinga – For restaurant-quality shredded chicken bursting with authentic Mexican flavors, this Chicken Tinga recipe is your go-to! Its versatility is unmatched: use it to elevate nachos, stuff burritos, fill tacos, or add a punch of flavor to salads. The options are truly endless, making this a staple in our kitchen.
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Roasted Honey Balsamic Fall Medley over Goat Cheese Polenta – Prepare for your taste buds to be transported! The harmonious blend of sweet roasted grapes and seasonal vegetables, perfectly balanced by a tangy honey balsamic glaze, served over creamy, rich goat cheese polenta, is absolutely out of this world. It’s a sophisticated and comforting dish perfect for cooler evenings.
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Slow Cooker Homemade Turkey Broth – Making your own turkey broth has never been easier or more rewarding. Simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic. In just a few hours, you’ll have 12 cups of deeply flavorful, homemade turkey broth, perfect for soups, gravies, and countless other dishes.
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Classic Butter Tarts – This recipe isn’t just a dessert; it’s a cherished family heirloom, passed down from my great-grandmother’s collection. Each bite is a sweet, tender embrace of tradition and history, a recipe I will forever treasure and continue to share.
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Lobster Mashed Potatoes – It truly doesn’t get more decadent than this luxurious side dish. After falling head over heels for this recipe a few years ago, I finally perfected my own recreation. Creamy mashed potatoes infused with succulent lobster, it’s an indulgence that elevates any meal to a special occasion.
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Roasted Shrimp with Homemade Cocktail Sauce – Meet the easiest and most impressive appetizer you’ll ever make. Roasting the shrimp brings out their natural sweetness, and paired with my homemade cocktail sauce, which is absolutely amazing, it’s a simple yet sophisticated starter that guests will rave about.
2018: A Year of Personal Milestones, Transformations, and Cherished Moments
Beyond the kitchen, 2018 unfolded with a series of significant personal events and memorable family milestones that truly shaped our year.
Malloree’s Journey to a Confident Smile
The year began with great excitement as our daughter, Malloree, finally got braces! For those who may not know, she had wanted braces since she was old enough to understand what they were. It’s fascinating how trends change; when I was a kid, braces were decidedly “uncool,” but today, they’re embraced as a normal, even stylish, part of adolescence. This is certainly a positive shift! In early February, during a routine orthodontist check-up, the unexpected suggestion came to put her braces on that very day. Malloree and I were wonderfully surprised, and since she had been waiting forever and Pat and I were financially prepared, within a whirlwind 30 minutes, she had her braces. Neither Pat nor I ever had braces, so this was a new experience for us both. Witnessing not only her teeth gradually straighten but also her confidence blossom has been truly incredible. A girl who once instinctively hid her smile now beams all the time, and that, for a parent, is the absolute best reward.
An Unexpected Tumble and a Lesson in Resilience
Shortly after Malloree’s appointment, life took an unexpected turn from 100 to 0 in a mere 2.2 seconds. Overjoyed by her braces, I failed to notice a treacherous patch of ice and fell hard on my left hip. The bruise that followed was absolutely hideous, and the impact unfortunately resulted in nerve damage. Even ten months later, a portion of my hip remains completely numb—a persistent reminder of that icy day. However, I persevered, navigating recovery by sleeping exclusively on my right side and living in leggings for a few months (which, honestly, wasn’t a huge deviation from my norm!). It was a stark reminder of life’s unpredictable nature and my own resilience.
Softball Seasons and New Beginnings
The transition from spring into summer was, predictably, dominated by softball. This year brought a bittersweet feeling to the diamond, as we knew it would be Haileigh’s final year playing before heading off to college. In a significant shift, Malloree made the courageous decision to conclude her softball career and explore new passions. I’ll delve more into that shortly. For their last summer season together on the field, and for the first time ever, both girls played for the same softball organization, proudly sporting the same number on their jerseys—a special memory to cherish.
Home Transformations: From Windows to Walls
When we weren’t at the softball field, our time was dedicated to enjoying the lake—swimming and fishing—or tackling various home improvement projects. What began as a simple endeavor to replace existing window treatments in our living room quickly spiraled (in the best way possible!) into repainting the entire living room, dining room, and front entry. It’s always amusing how these projects expand! For these spaces, I envisioned a serene, neutral greige (a perfect blend of beige and grey). The initial color we tried had an unexpected blue undertone, so after a minor setback, we carefully selected the ideal shade. We ultimately used a Sherwin Williams color called ‘Agreeable Grey,’ mixed into Valspar Signature paint. Just an FYI, this is in no way a sponsored post; I’m simply sharing our personal choices!
The painting extended to doors, windows, and trim, creating a cohesive and fresh look. Pat, ever the skilled craftsman, custom-built the “curtain rods that started it all” using galvanized pipe, which we then expertly spray-painted to achieve an oiled blackish-bronze finish. I absolutely adore them; they add a touch of industrial chic that perfectly complements our refreshed space.
Later in the summer, our renovation ambitions continued as we tackled our master bedroom and the adjoining bathroom. The bathroom proved to be the longest project; I painstakingly repainted the vanity to match the new trim, and the walls required three coats of paint to completely cover the previous, very dark color. Though it’s a tiny bathroom, it now feels wonderfully light, airy, and much larger than its actual footprint. For this tranquil space, I selected another beautiful Sherwin Williams paint color, ‘Alabaster,’ also mixed into a Valspar Signature paint base.
With our renovation momentum in full swing, Pat generously built me a gorgeous and incredibly sturdy new headboard. While it only took him a couple of hours to construct, the finishing work was a multi-day endeavor for me. I confess, I’m not naturally a crafty person, so while the process was fairly straightforward, it was quite time-consuming. After it was built and lightly sanded, I applied paint, then meticulously stripped it off, wiped the wood down with brewed and cooled black tea, and followed that with a vinegar/steel wool mixture. After rinsing, this extensive process achieved a beautifully naturally aged look, giving the headboard a rich, weathered character.
To be completely honest, I initially wasn’t entirely sure how I felt about the headboard’s aged finish. However, after adding a few updated pieces—a stylish mirror from Hobby Lobby, elegant candle holders from Magnolia, and fresh, inviting bedding discovered at Marshall’s—I’ve truly fallen in love with it. Our room could still use new furniture, but I’m undecided whether to refinish our current pieces or search for newish-old furniture to restore. And that track lighting definitely needs to go! But for now, I cherish our cozy, personalized space. For the walls, I selected another Sherwin Williams paint color, ‘Elder White,’ again mixed into Valspar Signature paint. For all the trim throughout these renovated spaces, I chose what I believe is the perfect white: ‘Bistro White’ from Valspar, which strikes an ideal balance, being neither too warm nor too cool.
Looking ahead to this year, 2019, I have high hopes that Pat will build me a beautiful new kitchen table, and we’ll embark on redoing our second bathroom. I’ll definitely keep you all posted on our progress! 🤞🏼
A Heartfelt Goodbye to a Beloved Companion
Sadly, August 6th marked a deeply sorrowful day as we bid farewell to the best dog. Even five months later, his absence is profoundly felt, and we miss him terribly every single day. I poured my heart out about him and our profound loss in this emotional post, where so many of you extended your kindness by leaving heartfelt messages of support. ❤️
Celebrating Friendships and Milestones
2018 was also a year of significant birthdays for many of our friends, as a large number of them turned the big 4-0. It feels a little surreal, as I vividly remember celebrating most of their 21st birthdays, and even earlier milestones for some, going back to middle school. It was a joyful year filled with laughter, shared memories, and wonderful gatherings with dear friends. Pat and I feel incredibly fortunate to have such great, lifelong friends—individuals who are consistently there for one another, always ready to lend a helping hand, and, most importantly, always guarantee an abundance of laughter!
Haileigh’s Bright Future: Work, College, and Honors
This year, Haileigh embarked on a new chapter, securing her first job as a bagger at a local market, quickly advancing to a cashier position. She works part-time, three days a week, balancing it with all her other obligations. It’s safe to say she’s getting a valuable taste of the real world and handling it beautifully. 😉 For quite some time, Haileigh has known her passion lies in teaching. In the spring, she applied for the highly competitive Teacher Cadet course offered by her high school, a process that required a detailed application, an insightful essay, and strong teacher recommendations. She was accepted at the end of her junior year for her upcoming senior year, meaning her last hour of each school day is dedicated to shadowing different teachers across the district for a trimester, gaining invaluable classroom experience. So far, she absolutely loves it, further solidifying her career path!
Towards the end of summer, we drove two and a half hours to tour a potential college campus, and we all fell in love with it. However, through her Teacher Cadet course, she had the opportunity to tour more colleges, and one in particular truly stood out. Haileigh applied to only two colleges—her top choices—and was thrilled to be accepted to both! She recently made her final decision, and we are so proud of her thoughtful process. This year was also marked by significant academic achievements; Haileigh was inducted into her high school’s National Honor Society and National Technical Honor Society, adding to her existing membership in the Spanish National Honor Society. This girl’s future is incredibly bright, and we couldn’t be prouder of her dedication and accomplishments.
Malloree’s Evolution: From Softball to Dance
Malloree also had a monumental year! Softball dominated the beginning, as she played for her 8th-grade team and seamlessly transitioned into summer travel ball. But a significant change occurred in March when she tried out for and successfully made the varsity dance team. For several months, her schedule was a whirlwind, juggling softball games or dance practice almost every night of the week. Now that I reflect on it, Malloree has always been a master of multi-tasking sports; for the past two years, she gracefully balanced softball with volleyball, never once complaining about the demanding schedule. However, she made the mature decision that this would be her final year playing softball. While it’s a little bittersweet, all four of us have devoted our summers to the sport, and to say we weren’t a little excited to reclaim our spring and summer weekends would be a lie. So, Malloree has enthusiastically traded her softball glove for poms! Instead of enduring hot 90-degree weather at the ball field, this fall we bundled up to cheer her and the dance team on the sidelines of football games, and now we’re eagerly cramming into bleachers at basketball games.
Despite having very little prior dance experience, Malloree has not missed a single practice in the past ten months. On her own initiative (and with occasional help from teammates), she has incredibly taught herself and grown immensely as a dancer. Her determination, incredible work ethic, and perseverance are truly inspiring to witness. With Haileigh increasingly busy with work, friends, and navigating normal teenage life, Malloree and I have found ourselves with more special one-on-one time. She has become my cherished shopping buddy, and we frequently enjoy lunch dates together. Knowing that she’ll be off to college in just a few short years (and I am acutely aware of how quickly that time will fly), I deeply cherish these precious moments we share, strengthening our unique mother-daughter bond.
High School Dances and Home Updates
This fall brought the excitement of homecoming dances: Malloree attended her first high school homecoming, while Haileigh celebrated her last. Both girls had an incredible time and looked absolutely beautiful, marking another memorable milestone in their teenage years.
We also faced the unexpected necessity of replacing our refrigerator this fall. Not that I minded, I must admit! Our old fridge first broke down in late October after a power outage. Miraculously, it sputtered back to life for a few more weeks, perfectly timed for Best Buy’s Black Friday sales, before breaking down completely again. By mid-November, I proudly had this beautiful new appliance! It doesn’t match a single other thing in our kitchen and makes our tiny, 1980-something stove look absolutely ridiculous in comparison. But until we undertake a full kitchen remodel, it will certainly do the job. 😉 Please excuse the lingering styrofoam in the photo; I snapped it mere seconds after the delivery guys departed!
Holidays, Hiking, and Healthy Habits
The holidays, as they always do, came and went in a delightful blur. Since Pat and I had just invested in a new refrigerator, we mutually agreed not to exchange gifts this year. I told him to pick out a new muzzleloader at some point in 2019, and then he surprised me with a thoughtful gift: new hiking boots!
We’ve often talked about going hiking, and Pat has been enjoying solo hikes for years now. I’ve always been a bit reluctant; partly due to a touch of laziness, and partly because I lacked adequate footwear. However, I recently embarked on a healthier eating plan, and aligned with that, our personal goal for 2019 is to get outdoors often and be significantly more active. We already completed a two-mile walk, and just this past Sunday, we ventured out on our first actual hike! We explored a nearby county park that borders our lake, hiking 2.7 miles in crisp 33-degree weather. It was sunny and beautiful, and we had so much fun together. I’m already eagerly anticipating our next adventure on the trails.
Looking Ahead to 2019: New Chapters and Exciting Updates for Simply Scratch
As we step into 2019, I am filled with extreme optimism and excitement for what the year holds. It will undoubtedly be a crazy and emotional year with Haileigh’s high school graduation and her transition to college, Malloree’s demanding dance schedule, and all the regular ebb and flow of life. But isn’t this all part of the beautiful plan? To raise our children and witness them embarking on their own incredible journeys through life.
Professionally, I am absolutely thrilled to announce that Simply Scratch will be undergoing a brand new look! I know I mentioned this last year, but this time it’s truly happening—I am currently on a waiting list for the redesign as I type this! 😂 Beyond a fresh, modern, and updated aesthetic, the new Simply Scratch will feature exciting new functionalities and a streamlined layout. Crucially, this update will also bring a much-improved search option, making it even easier for you to find your favorite recipes. Keep an eye out for the big reveal in Spring 2019! I literally CANNOT WAIT to share it with you all!
To each and every one of you who visits Simply Scratch, cooks or bakes a recipe, leaves a thoughtful comment, or sends me an email—I want to express my deepest, most heartfelt appreciation. Over the years, some of you have even transitioned from readers to cherished friends, and to me, that connection is truly what this entire blogging journey is about. As I embark on my ninth year of blogging (!!!), I am still just as passionate and excited to share new recipes and culinary inspiration. I am immensely proud of this little corner of the food blogging world I’ve created. Without each and every one of you, this blog simply wouldn’t exist, and I am so grateful for your continued support and engagement. I sincerely wish for all of you to have an amazing 2019, one that brings you abundant joy, profound peace, overflowing love, and endless laughter.
From my family to yours, Happy New Year!
Explore More: My Past Year in Review Posts
Curious to see how Simply Scratch has evolved over the years? Dive into my previous year-in-review posts and join me on a nostalgic journey through the past decade:
2017: A Year in Review
2016: A Year in Review
2015: A Year in Review
2014: A Year in Review
2013: A Year in Review
2012: A Year in Review
2011: A Year in Review
2010: A Year in Review