Taste of Home August/September 2022

I always love planning Taste of Home’s August/September issue because we’re able to celebrate two of my favorite seasons at once. I just don’t know if I can pick between summer and fall—there’s something so special about how those hazy August days slowly contort into a crisp, colorful autumn overture. Plus, when it comes to cooking, we can enjoy the best of both worlds. Let’s start on the summery side. This time of year, I try to squeeze in every last drop of sunshine I can, so our laid-back Labor Day dinner (page 79) is right up my alley. A gorgeous spread of seasonal, shareable food all set on an al fresco table surrounded by friends? That’s my ideal send-off to summer. And once we transition to fall, it’s all about convenient…

All About Apple Pie Welcome apple season with the most iconic dessert that showcases the favorite orchard fruit. You’ll learn how to perfect your pie with expert tips for the quintessential crust and how to make a phenomenal filling, and you’ll find a bushel of apple pie-inspired recipes. Want to get started now? Hover your phone’s camera here to find our guide for the best varieties of apples that help make the most unforgettable apple pie. Delicious on a Dime Feed your family affordably with the help of the Taste of Home Budget Friendly Recipes cookbook, EZ-Read™ edition! The 100+ recipes that fill the table without emptying your wallet are presented in a large-print, easier-to-read format. And speaking of savings, you can buy it now for only $10 and free shipping! tasteofhomebooks.com/EZBF COMMUNITY COOK’S RECIPE…

Flavor Watch ’Corn with a Kick cont’d. Cajun fare, a Louisiana staple that’s the fusion of various West African, Spanish and French cooking techniques, is known for its bold, memorable flavors—but not necessarily its simplicity. If crawfish boils and filé gumbo aren’t in your repertoire, yet you can’t help but crave the bayou’s signature flavors, turn to kernels. Yes, we’re talking Cajun-inspired popcorn sprinkled with the namesake seasoning blend of garlic, salt, onion, cayenne, paprika and more. Trust us—this fiery snack is delicious enough to ignite any appetite. Buttery Cajun Popcorn Place 12 cups air-popped popcorn in a large bowl. Combine ¼ cup melted butter and 2 Tbsp. lime juice; drizzle over popcorn and toss to coat. Combine 4½ tsp. Cajun seasoning and 4-5 Tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese; sprinkle over popcorn and toss to…

Full-Body Health Get a megadose of antioxidants with every cup of matcha you brew. These compounds fight disease-causing free radicals in your body. Enjoying antioxidant-rich tea can help boost your immunity and fend off serious health issues, including diabetes and heart disease. Glowing Skin The antioxidants in a cup of matcha can also help defend skin from UV radiation, per an NIH study. Protecting yourself from these rays prevents signs of aging. Matcha also has valuable levels of vitamin C, which stimulates collagen production for a stunning complexion. Jitter-Free Energy If you need a bit of caffeine to get going in the morning, in lieu of coffee try a mug of matcha. Its caffeine levels are comparable to a cup of joe, but matcha has something java doesn’t: the amino acid L-theanine. This promotes relaxation even as…

A one-size-fits-all diet for dogs doesn’t exist. Your own food philosophy will likely influence what you feed your dog. And that’s OK, as long as you follow this rule from Ernie Ward, a veterinarian and the founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention: “Make sure whatever diet you choose is nutritionally adequate.” As you determine what should be on the menu for your mutt, keep these guidelines in mind. Feed Fido only once or twice per day. Dogs have evolved to eat bigger meals less frequently. Lean toward a low-grain diet. Grains can lead to weight gain, so they should be consumed in small quantities, according to Ernie. Stay away from highly processed foods. Judy Morgan, a holistic veterinarian and one of the authors of Yin & Yang Nutrition for Dogs, says,…

DIY Ramen Soup This fresh yet cozy favorite, prepped and served in a jar, is a healthier alternative to commercial varieties. Feel free to customize the veggies. —Michelle Clair, Seattle, WA Takes: 25 min. • Makes: 2 servings 1 pkg. (3 oz.) ramen noodles1 Tbsp. reduced-sodium chicken base1 to 2 tsp. Sriracha chili sauce1 tsp. minced fresh gingerroot½ cup shredded carrots½ cup shredded cabbage2 radishes, halved and sliced½ cup sliced fresh shiitake mushrooms1 cup shredded cooked chicken breast¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves2 lime wedges1 hard-boiled large egg, halved4 cups boiling water 1. Cook ramen noodles according to package directions (do not use seasoning packet); cool. 2. In each of two 1-qt. wide-mouth canning jars, layer half of each ingredient in the following order: ramen noodles, chicken base, chili sauce, ginger, carrots, cabbage, radishes, mushrooms, chicken and…