As the weather continues to warm up stateside, thoughts of dining al fresco in my backyard begin to dance in my head. I imagine walking around with a glass of wine, basking in the warm glow of the setting sun, waiting for market lights strung above to illuminate the evening. Of course, the reality is that we have an unfinished backyard, we don’t have any market lights or anything to attach them to anyway, and I’m just that clumsy on my own to stumble on a pebble without the help of a glass or two of wine. But a girl can dream.

In that same dream, we’re feasting on delicious nibbles that take almost no time to make. At least that part can be reality with this Easy Caper Tomato Bruschetta from TK member Christin. Puttanesca happens to be my favorite pasta sauce ever, so the combination of tomatoes and capers in this recipe is right up my alley. (I may even add some olives and anchovies if my imaginary guests let me. I’m pretty sure they will.) Christin gives us permission to use canned tomatoes if we don’t have fresh ones, which pretty much makes this fancy-looking appetizer a pantry dish.

Thanks for sharing this, Christin! Click on the photo to get the printable. And make yourself something special to enjoy outside this week, friends!

Here’s a 20-minute dinner for those busy weeknights, or when you’ve been playing and shopping and cleaning all day and find yourself without a game plan for dinner. This Simple Spaghetti with Garlic, Peas & Parmesan from TK member Julie will save the day! It’s a great spring dish, and if peas aren’t your thing, you can easily substitute your favorite spring vegetable. The egg yolk (brilliant addition) gives it a carbonara-esque richness without feeling heavy, and did I mention it’s ready in 20 minutes?

Thanks for sharing this, Julie. I always have a box of gluten-free pasta in my pantry and can’t wait to try this.

Have a great weekend, everyone!