I can’t believe I’m actually writing this, but today signifies my final official installment of this food column for Cup of Jo. I say “official” because I’ll still be popping in sporadically; I’m just scaling back to concentrate on some personal endeavors on the horizon, so I won’t be sharing every single Wednesday, as I have been for nearly seven consecutive years. SEVEN YEARS! I feel incredibly fortunate to have been a consistent presence in this amazing community for such a length of time — I’m immensely thankful to all of you for reading, for imparting your knowledge, and for reminding me that everyone on this planet appears to have a strong view about Trader Joe’s. In honor of this moment, I wanted to compile my most unforgettable experiences…
1. Most Fulfilling Aspect Overall: Providing a Stage for Other Food Writers
This has undoubtedly been the highlight of the job — discovering and introducing you to food writers and cookbook authors. The Cup of Jo community is vibrant and engaging, and food writers are always excited to join in through their recipes. Just to highlight a few unforgettable contributions: Yasmin Fahr’s Sausage Meatballs with Halloumi and Tomatoes (above); Bee Wilson’s Magic One-Pan Pasta; Sohla El-Waylly’s Chickpea and Chard Stew; Hetty McKinnon’s Cabbage Carbonara; Leah Koenig’s Chicken Soup; Odette Williams’s Pasta with Vodka Sauce; Dan Pelosi’s Pastina for a Bad Day. The sheer amount of talent out there never ceases to amaze me.
2. Most Frequently Used Recipes, For Me
I don’t merely write this column, I actively use it. All the time. There are certain recipes I gravitate towards more frequently, such as Brooks Reitz’s Lazy Man’s Ratatouille, Priya Krishna’s crowd-pleasing Matar Paneer, Andrea Nguyen’s Tofu Bánh Mì. Had I not already memorized my Smashed Pea Toasts with Ricotta (above), Roast Chicken and Pan-Fried Fish Sandwich, they’d surely be included here. And whenever a dinner party host asks, “Can you bring dessert?” I turn to the comments section of this post for creative ideas.
3. Most Recent Favorite Recipe: Sara Forte’s Blackened Salmon with Tropical Pico
Have you tried making this yet? It is a fantastic recipe. I just featured it in May, and it has graced my dinner table at least six times since then, including this past weekend. Tip: I often grab pre-made mango salsa to expedite the pico preparation.
4. Most Popular Recipes, by the Numbers
But forget my own favorites; here are three posts that achieved incredible popularity simply based on the numbers: Taste Test: What’s the Best Vanilla Ice Cream (which took me by surprise), Ali Stafford’s Same-Day Peasant Bread (I recall this one taking the internet by storm), and Five Recipes Worth Memorizing, featuring my go-to tofu method and versatile salad dressing.
5. Most Controversial Discussion: The Etiquette of Being a Good Guest
I had no idea I would stir up such a hornet’s nest with the topic of “fashionable lateness.” Lesson learned: Most of you do not approve of dinner guests arriving 15 minutes late, even if they text beforehand to inform the host.
6. Second Most Controversial Discussion: The #1 Thing I’d Advise New Parents About Family Dinner
I still stand by this: If you have a child under three years old, don’t stress about it.
7. Most Enjoyable to Write: The Fundamentals
In the pursuit of the new and novel, it’s easy to overlook that most individuals simply want to know how to prepare a decent dinner each night and enjoy the process. Writing about fundamental, genuine recipes has always felt like my forte, and it’s therefore no surprise that they’ve been the most enjoyable pieces to craft. I’m considering: The Only 5 Salad Dressings You Need; 9 Easy Family Meals We’ve Cherished; How to Enhance a Standard Green Salad; an ode to Frozen Vegetables and a heartfelt note to a simple head of cabbage. In terms of sweets, my Old-School Chocolate Mousse (above) stands out, along with my Crisp for All Seasons and Dorie Greenspan’s Everything Cake, both of which could be described as “one recipe fits all.” I think I might need to whip up that mousse this weekend!
8. Most Viral: A Potato Salad Tip
I’ve always held the belief that if I can offer readers even the slightest way to improve their lives or bring them happiness, I’ve fulfilled my role. There was never a more clear (or minuscule) example of this than when I advised, “When preparing potato salad, mix your potatoes with the dressing while they’re still warm for optimal absorption.” It’s the most popular post I’ve ever penned on Cup of Jo.
9. Most Significant Comment: “Eat less meat,” rather than “Eat no meat”
In particular, in response to my book The Weekday Vegetarians, a Cup of Jo reader commented, “It’s a better strategy to encourage more individuals to eat less meat, instead of trying to convince fewer people to abstain from meat altogether.” I wish I could locate the comment and the reader who said this (is it you?) so that I could express my gratitude for every single time I recounted it at a book event or during an interview. Such a poignant statement, and undeniably true.
10. Most Heartfelt: Tips for Stress-Free Family Dinners
I remember when Joanna approached me to write this piece — a timeless subject — and I thought, I’ve addressed family dinner for over a decade, how am I going to bring something fresh to the table? But I had never approached the subject as an empty nester reflecting on the past, and I was surprised by how freely the words flowed and how emotional it became to write it, realizing that I had become the “Perspective Person” now. Times change. Children grow up. And I’m incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to write about all of these experiences here on Cup of Jo.
Did I overlook anything? Thank you for joining me on this journey, everyone. You can always catch me through my newsletter, Dinner: A Love Story. I can confidently say that you are in superb hands with my successors: Alex Beggs, Christina Chaey, Kelsey Miller, and many other talented writers Joanna has lined up for 2025. I, for one, am eagerly anticipating what they bring.
P.S. A tribute to traditions (the first time my name ever appeared on Cup of Jo) and tips for encouraging your kids to engage during dinner.
(Photos: Chocolate mousse, Yossy Arefi; Bread, Alexandra Stafford; Family dinner: Chelsea Cavanaugh)
**10 Invaluable Insights Gained from Writing This Column**
Crafting a column involves more than simply placing words on a page; it represents a process of personal exploration, growth, and connection. Throughout this time, the experience of creating articles, sharing knowledge, and engaging with readers imparts invaluable insights that transcend the written word. Below are ten lessons I’ve gathered from writing this column that have enriched both my personal and professional life.
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### 1. **The Strength of Consistency**
Consistency forms the foundation of any enduring undertaking, and writing a column is no different. Adhering to deadlines, publishing routinely, and maintaining a consistent rhythm has illustrated the significance of discipline. Consistency fosters trust among readers and reinforces the practice of engaging, even during times when inspiration feels distant.
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### 2. **Clarity is Crucial**
Writing for an audience necessitates clarity. It’s insufficient to possess brilliant ideas; they must be expressed in a way that resonates with readers. Through experience, I’ve learned to distill intricate concepts, eliminate jargon, and concentrate on imparting a clear, succinct message that leaves a lasting impression.
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### 3. **Empathy Deepens Connection**
Comprehending the needs, interests, and challenges of readers is vital. Writing this column has taught me to embody my audience’s perspective, foresee their inquiries, and address their apprehensions. Empathy cultivates connection, rendering the content more relatable and impactful.
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### 4. **Feedback is Invaluable**
Reader feedback, whether encouraging or critical, serves as an essential resource. It offers insights into what resonates, what misses the mark, and how I can enhance my work. Welcoming feedback with an open mindset has enabled me to evolve as a writer and better cater to my audience.
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### 5. **Authenticity Fosters Trust**
Readers can differentiate between when writing is genuine and when it feels contrived or insincere. Sharing personal stories, acknowledging shortcomings, and being candid about my viewpoints have fortified my bond with readers. Authenticity nurtures trust, which underpins any significant relationship.
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### 6. **The Value of Lifelong Learning**
Writing a column demands an ongoing pursuit of knowledge and curiosity. Investigating subjects, exploring fresh concepts, and staying informed of trends have underscored the significance of lifelong learning. Each piece presents an opportunity to broaden my awareness and convey it to others.
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### 7. **Adaptability is Key**
Not every concept resonates, and not every article meets expectations. Writing this column has taught me to be adaptable, pivot, and try varying strategies. Flexibility is essential for maintaining relevance and engagement in a constantly shifting environment.
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### 8. **Storytelling is a Common Language**
Narratives possess the power to captivate, motivate, and educate. I’ve discovered that integrating stories into my writing enhances its allure and memorability. Whether it’s a personal anecdote or a case study, storytelling breathes life into ideas and establishes a deeper connection with readers.
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### 9. **Writing Reflects the Writer**
The act of writing often uncovers more about the author than the subject matter itself. Creating this column has been a process of self-exploration, helping me clarify my values, refine my voice, and gain a deeper understanding of my own viewpoints. Writing is as much a tool for personal advancement as it is for communication.
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### 10. **Impact Exceeds Expectations**
One of the humbling lessons I’ve internalized is that words possess the power to effect change. A single article can ignite transformation, trigger discussions, or offer solace to someone in need. Writing this column has reminded me that even modest contributions can create a ripple effect.
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### Final Reflections
Writing this column has been a transformative journey, filled with insights that go far beyond the written page. From the discipline of consistency to the art of storytelling, each article has been a chance to develop, connect, and contribute. Whether you’re a writer, reader, or someone following a creative passion, these lessons reaffirm the significance of persistence, authenticity, and the eagerness to learn. After all, the journey holds as much importance as the destination.
