Olivia Hartwell

A Taste of Sunshine My grandson calls this his “vacation pasta.” I have to agree. One bite and I feel warmer. The coconut milk makes it so creamy. The lime gives it a little zing. It is like a happy trip to the islands, right from your kitchen. This dish matters because it is…

A Happy Little Kitchen Accident I first made these tortillas by mistake. I was trying to make a cauliflower pizza crust. It was a bit of a mess. But the thin, crispy rounds were perfect for little snacks. I still laugh at that. My best recipes often start as happy accidents. It reminds me…

A Cake Full of Sweet Surprises I have always loved this cake. It feels like a big, sweet hug. The coconut makes it soft and moist. The pecans give it a little happy crunch. My grandson calls it the “confetti cake” because of the white coconut flakes. It just looks so joyful sitting on…

A Surprise in the Oven My grandson Leo turned his nose up at cauliflower. He called it “little white trees.” I had a little plan one day. I made this pizza crust. He ate two whole slices. He had no idea! I still laugh at that. Sometimes, a fun trick helps us try new…

A Funny Kitchen Mistake I once tried to make pancakes for my grandson. I got my bowls mixed up. I used salt instead of sugar. We still laugh at that. That’s why I read recipes carefully now. It matters because good food starts with paying attention. It shows you care for the people you…

A Sandwich That Feeds a Crowd My grandson calls this my magic trick dinner. It looks so fancy when it comes out of the oven. But it is really just a big, warm sandwich. It is perfect for a busy weeknight. You get all your favorite Italian flavors in one pan. I love how…

The Best Smells in the Kitchen Nothing beats the smell of bacon cooking. It warms the whole house. Then you add the onion, pepper, and celery. Doesn’t that smell amazing? This vegetable mix is called the “holy trinity” in Louisiana cooking. It’s the heart of so many good dishes. I love hearing the soft…

A Cake That Tells a Story My grandson calls this my sunshine cake. It is bright and cheerful, just like a summer day. I first made it for a friend who needed a smile. It worked like a charm. Food is more than just eating. It is a way to show you care. A…

A Surprise in a Glass I first tried this drink at a friend’s backyard party. It was a hot day, and this creamy limeade was so refreshing. I was surprised to learn it was made with the whole lime. I still laugh at that. This matters because it teaches us not to judge things…

A Salad Full of Sunshine This salad tastes like a sunny day. It is so fresh and happy. I make it when my garden is bursting with cucumbers and tomatoes. Doesn’t that smell amazing? The colors are so bright and cheerful. It makes any meal feel special. This matters because we eat with our…