This week I’m away from my usual kitchen routine while attending an entrepreneurship conference in Austin, so instead of a typical meal plan I’m sharing a curated list of things I’ve been enjoying lately. Below you’ll find recipe ideas, kitchen gear I’m eyeing, podcasts, books, shows and a bit about upcoming travel — all chosen to make your week more fun and a little easier to plan.
RECIPE INSPO
One Pot Pasta with Peas and Mint is light and fresh — perfect for spring evenings.
Slow-Roasted Spiced Pork delivers warming spices and bold flavor when you want something comforting yet effortless.
Napa Cabbage Tofu Soup is on my to-try list for a simple, nourishing weeknight meal.
Lemon Sponge Cups are an easy, bright dessert that feels special without much fuss.
I also shared a refreshing Watermelon Summer Shaker on Instagram, plus a short guide showing how to cut a watermelon neatly for salads and snacks.
KITCHEN STUFF
After a weekend in Santa Monica with family I realized how useful an electric tea kettle is. They’re common in European hotel rooms and excellent for quick pour-over coffee or a hot cup of tea. I’ve been noticing cute, compact models that are both stylish and practical, and I’m planning to add one to my counter soon.
PODCASTS
On my drive to Austin I listened to an episode about decluttering and reducing cognitive load. It reminded me how meal planning can free up mental space for the week — a quick ten-minute look at your calendar and fridge can make evenings so much easier. If you want a guided approach, I offer a free meal-planning workbook that walks you through the steps.
I also enjoyed an episode on the psychology of fiction, which was a treat for a longtime reader like me.
Do you have a favorite podcast? I’d love to hear recommendations — leave a comment or just reply.
BOOKS
When I need to escape into fiction, I often reach for immersive, character-driven novels. Recently I read Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus, Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin. All three were engrossing in different ways.
On my Kindle app are a couple of unread titles I’m excited to start soon: Before We Were Innocent by Ella Berman and Happy Place by Emily Henry.
SHOWS
I quickly devoured The Diplomat on Netflix and I’m following The Last Thing He Told Me on Apple TV — the series pairs nicely with the book.
TRAVEL
Paris is next on my calendar. I’ll be there soon to help my daughter with a move and I’m staying at a Hoxton hotel for the first time. I’ve booked reservations at a couple of restaurants I’m excited to try and I’ll visit the Basquiat x Warhol exhibit at Fondation Louis Vuitton. For Mother’s Day we’ll head to the Champagne region, which I’m really looking forward to. I’ll share highlights and update my Paris travel guide after the trip.