Friendly PSA: Cooking Can Still Be Fun

When the cooking fatigue sets in, turn to new recipes to lift your spirits.

Food Network Kitchen’s Lemon Curd Sunshine Tart.

Food Network Kitchen’s Lemon Curd Sunshine Tart.

Photo by: Matt Armendariz

Matt Armendariz

After months of cooking without reprieve, we’re willing to bet that you’re pretty over it. It’s ok, we totally get it — and that’s why we’ve rounded up a bunch of ultra-fun recipes that are sure to draw you back into the kitchen. These dishes, from Insta-worthy desserts to pantry-friendly salads, are all a blast to cook and even better to eat.

Just looking at this decadent dessert is guaranteed to put a smile on your face — and it will only grow as you serve and eat. A simple shortbread crust forms the base of this cheery tart, while a homemade lemon curd and sweet blueberry mixture make up the delicious filling. Oh, and don't worry about any special equipment — we use folded-up foil to make the super-cute star shape!

Photo by: Matt

Matt

Calling all BLT-lovers! This salad brings all the flavors of your favorite sandwich into one bowl, packed with beans and coated with a delicious herb-mayo dressing. With crispy bacon and homemade croutons, it’s the one salad you’ll be guaranteed to crave again and again. Plus, it’s easy!

Leftover Pasta Frittata

Leftover Pasta Frittata

Photo by: Teri Lyn Fisher

Teri Lyn Fisher

Is leftover pasta kicking around in your fridge for the third time this month? Transform it into a cheesy, creamy frittata! Long, thin pasta, like linguine or spaghetti, are ideal to cradle the egg mixture, which combines with Parmesan, mozzarella and cherry tomatoes for an ultra-rich texture and a pop of freshness.

The only thing more fun than eating rainbow brioche? Baking it! Whip up a buttery bread dough, divide it into six equal pieces and dye each section a vibrant color. After resting and rising, you’ll have a bright and beautiful brioche that’s delicious in a sandwich, as French toast or eaten as is.

Food Network Kitchen’s Chicken Bake.

Food Network Kitchen’s Chicken Bake.

Photo by: Matt

Matt

Can’t get enough of Costco’s famous chicken bake? We came up with a handheld version that’s brimming with cheesy-bacon goodness and easy to eat on the go. These reheat like a dream, so feel free to make extra!

Food Network Kitchen’s Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies, as seen on Food Network.

FNK_AirFryerChocolateChipCookies_H

Food Network Kitchen’s Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies, as seen on Food Network.

Photo by: Renee Comet

Renee Comet

There’s no denying that air fryers are THE kitchen tool of 2020. Put yours to good use by whipping up a batch of classic, cakey chocolate chip cookies — right on top of the counter! Pro tip? Prepare the dough, roll it into balls and stick a bunch in the freezer for a comforting dessert you can bake in minutes. After all, cooking dinner is always better when you know you have a sweet treat waiting for you afterwards!

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