KISS Cooking | Recipes By Ashley
Savory GSP Quiche for Brunch or Dinner
My go-to brunch dish that feels fancy but is secretly so easy. If there’s one thing I love to make for a cozy weekend brunch — or honestly, for an easy weeknight dinner — it’s this GSP Quiche. The “GSP” stands for Gouda, Swiss, and Pancetta, which is the dream team of flavors. It’s savory, creamy, a little salty, and so delicious paired with the handful of arugula that goes right inside. It gives the whole thing the perfect little bite. This is straight from my recipe notebook, covered in notes like “add more onion if you love onion like me!” (which… I do). It’s simple, comforting, and always a hit whenever I serve it. Ingredients 1 cup chopped onion (or more if you’re an onion lover like me) ½ cup pancetta 1 Tbsp olive oil 1 pie crust A handful of arugula 1 cup Swiss/Gouda cheese mix 4 eggs 1 cup half & half 1 tsp salt 1 tsp pepper ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional but so good) How I Make It Heat the olive oil over medium/high heat. Add the onions and pancetta and cook until browned and the onions are soft and golden. Pour this mixture straight into your pie crust. Top with a handful of arugula — it wilts beautifully as it bakes. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, half & half, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir in the Swiss/Gouda cheese. Pour the egg mixture into the pie crust over the pancetta and onions. Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes. Let it rest before slicing. Then serve and enjoy! Ashley’s Notes This quiche reheats beautifully — perfect for leftovers or meal prep. Feel free to swap the cheese mixture for whatever you have on hand. Serve with a simple green salad, fruit, or roasted potatoes for a full brunch moment. This is one of those recipes that feels homey and special at the same time — the best kind. I hope it becomes one of your go-to’s the way it is for me.
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My Dreamy Whipped Feta Appetizer
My go-to crowd-pleasing dip that comes together in minutes. If you’ve ever needed a last-minute appetizer that still feels elevated and homemade, this Whipped Feta is exactly what you want. It’s creamy, salty, a little sweet from the honey, and honestly one of my favorite things to serve when we have friends over. I’ve made this recipe so many times that the little handwritten note I keep in my kitchen drawer is practically soft at the edges. This is the kind of app that looks gorgeous on a platter but takes almost no effort — truly my love language. Ingredients 8 oz. block feta, room temp 8 oz. cream cheese, room temp 1 Tbsp olive oil (plus more if needed) 1 tsp minced garlic ½ tsp salt ½ tsp black pepper Honey Chopped pistachios + chives for topping How I Make It Add the feta, cream cheese, olive oil, and garlic to a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding a little extra olive oil if it needs help coming together. Season with salt and pepper and blend again. Spread the whipped feta onto a platter. Use the back of a spoon to make a little well in the center — this will hold the honey. Fill the well with honey, then top with chopped pistachios, chives, and a little more black pepper. How I Serve It I love putting this out with: Fresh veggies Roasted veggies Warm pita or naan Crackers or crostini It’s honestly delicious with anything — and people ALWAYS ask for the recipe. Ashley’s Hosting Notes Make it ahead! Keep it refrigerated, then add honey + toppings right before serving. If you want a little heat, add red pepper flakes on top. This also makes the cutest board centerpiece if you're building a grazing table. This Whipped Feta is one of those easy recipes that feels special every single time. I hope you love it as much as we do. Enjoy! 💋
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My “Sunshine in a Glass” Lemon Drop
My favorite bright + zingy cocktail that tastes like sunshine in a glass. Let me tell y’all… this Lemon Drop has been my quick, go-to cocktail for years. It’s fresh, slightly sweet, and just strong enough without tasting too strong — which is exactly how I like it. If you’ve ever had one at a restaurant and thought, I wish I could make that at home, this is your sign. It’s embarrassingly easy, and so, so good. This is actually the exact recipe I keep written on a little scrap of paper in my kitchen drawer (can you tell that’s a theme around here?). I pull it out anytime I want something bright and fun — girls’ night, pre-dinner drinks, or honestly just a little Friday moment. Ingredients 2 shots Kettle One Citron ¾ shot simple syrup Juice of 1 fresh lemon How I Make It Add the vodka, simple syrup, and fresh lemon juice to a shaker with ice. Shake it really well — you want it super cold and a little frothy. Rim your glass with sugar (the sparkle makes it feel fancy). Pour and enjoy immediately. Ashley’s Notes Fresh lemon juice makes all the difference. Don’t use the bottled stuff — it’s not the same! If you like it sweeter, add a tiny splash more simple syrup. If you want it stronger, do 2.5 shots of vodka… no judgment here. Pairs perfectly with my Frosted Cranberries if you want a little holiday twist. This Lemon Drop is simple, pretty, and always a hit. If you make it, tag me so I can see your cute cocktail moment!
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Frosted Cranberries (My Favorite Holiday Drink Garnish!)
The easiest way to make any holiday cocktail look instantly festive. If you’ve ever seen those gorgeous, sparkly cranberries on top of a Christmas cocktail and thought, okay… how do people make those? — this is for you. I’ve been making these Frosted Cranberries for years, and they are truly the cutest little touch to add to any holiday drink, cheese board, or dessert. They look fancy, but they are honestly the easiest thing ever. I scribbled this recipe down ages ago (it’s still on a wrinkled note in my kitchen drawer), and I pull it out every December when I’m in full holly-jolly hosting mode. They’re sweet, tart, sparkly, and so fun. Ingredients 1 cup fresh cranberries ¾ cup water 1 ¼ cup sugar (divided) How I Make Them In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the water and 1 cup of the sugar to a simmer, whisking until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat. Pour the warm syrup over the cranberries in a bowl. Cover and let them sit for 15–20 minutes. Line a sheet pan with parchment. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cranberries to the parchment and let them dry for about 1 hour. Once they’re tacky and no longer wet, toss them in the remaining ¼ cup of sugar to give them that frosted, glittery look. Return them to the sheet to finish drying. Ashley’s Hosting Tips These are so cute on cocktail picks for holiday drinks. Add them to a charcuterie board for an easy pop of Christmas sparkle. They store well! Keep them uncovered at room temp for a day or two. If you want extra sparkle, toss them in sugar twice. (I always do.) These are truly one of my favorite holiday touches — so simple but they make everything feel more magical. If you make them, tag me so I can see your sparkly drink moment! 💋✨🎄
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The Beet Salad You Didn’t Know You Needed
Every holiday table needs that one dish that’s fresh, colorful, and impossibly easy — the kind of side that balances out all the cozy casseroles and richer recipes. This Beet Salad is exactly that. It’s bright, earthy, a little sweet, and layered with textures that make every bite feel special. Whether you’re hosting Friendsgiving, a family dinner, or a casual night at home, this is one recipe you’ll want on repeat all season long. Why We Love It This salad looks beautiful on the table, takes just a few minutes to assemble, and pairs perfectly with roasted meats, cozy soups, or a holiday spread. And because everything can be prepped ahead, it’s a dream dish when you’re juggling hosting duties. Beet Salad Recipe • 2 packs beets• Goat cheese• Candied pecans• White wine vinegar• Olive oil• Salt + pepper• Microgreens or arugula Directions Layer all ingredients on a large serving platter or in a shallow bowl.Drizzle with olive oil and white wine vinegar, season with salt + pepper, and enjoy! Ashley’s Hosting Tip Use a mix of microgreens and arugula for the perfect blend of freshness and a little peppery bite. And don’t skip the candied pecans — they add the most delicious crunch. This simple salad brings such a beautiful, festive touch to any meal. Save it, share it, and keep it in your holiday rotation… you’ll be glad you did. 🥗💫 xo, Ashley
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Setting the Table with Chic Home
There’s nothing quite like a beautifully set table to make a gathering feel special. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, a Saturday brunch, or simply elevating your everyday meals, the details you choose create the mood before the first dish even hits the table. This week at Chic Home, we’re spotlighting two favorites that instantly transform any space: our luxury florals and signature ceramic vases. Stop by the storefront tomorrow to grab these gorgeous florals — ranging from $12–$18 per stem — and our timeless, sculptural vases for $46 each. Want to make sure you get the ones you love? Just send us a message to reserve your picks! ✨ The Chic Home Approach to a Beautiful Table Setting a stunning table doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right layering and a few thoughtful choices, you can create a look that’s warm, inviting, and completely your style. Here are a few of my favorite tips when designing a table for hosting: 1. Start With a Clean Color Story Choose a palette that feels intentional. Soft neutrals create an elegant base, while muted pinks, deep greens, or warm golds bring in seasonal warmth. Build your table around two or three tones to keep things cohesive and elevated. 2. Let Florals Be the Star Fresh, high-quality stems instantly add life to your table. Choose a mix of textures — think fluffy peonies, structured tulips, or delicate fillers — to bring movement and interest. Arrange them low enough so guests can see each other across the table. 3. Add Height With Your Vase Our Chic Home vases are designed to be both functional and sculptural. Their clean lines and modern silhouettes help elevate your arrangement without overwhelming the table. One statement vase or a trio of smaller ones can make the entire setting feel curated. 4. Layer Your Linens and Dinnerware A light table runner, woven chargers, and stacked plates create dimension. Don’t be afraid to mix materials — matte ceramics with polished flatware or crisp linens with textured napkin rings add so much charm. 5. Finish With a Personal Touch Place cards, a tiny sprig of greenery, or a small seasonal ornament at each setting goes a long way in making guests feel welcomed and thought of. Bring the Look Home Whether you’re hosting a big holiday meal or just refreshing your dining room for the season, these florals and vases make it easy to elevate your space. Stop by Chic Home to browse, pick your favorites, and let us help you style your perfect table. Here’s to creating beautiful moments around the table — simply, thoughtfully, and always with a touch of chic. xo, Ashley
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Pink Lady: The Prettiest Sip for Your Holiday Hosting
There’s something about the holidays that makes every gathering feel a little more magical — the twinkle lights, the cozy conversations, and of course, the pretty cocktails that set the tone for the night. Today, we’re kicking things off with one of my favorite seasonal sips: The Pink Lady. Lightly sweet, beautifully bright, and topped with a festive sparkle, this cocktail is the perfect way to welcome guests or toast to a holiday moment at home. It’s simple (you know I love that!), elegant, and such a stunning addition to any tablescape or bar cart. Why You’ll Love It The Pink Lady is refreshing without being too strong, slightly citrusy, and so gorgeous in a coupe glass. It’s one of those drinks that looks like you spent way more time on it than you did — my favorite kind of recipe during a busy hosting season. The Pink Lady (Makes 2) • 2 oz Empress Gin• ½ oz simple syrup• ½ lemon, juiced Shake everything together with ice, pour into two chilled coupe glasses, and finish with a slow, bubbly pour of champagne over the top. 🥂💗 Serving Tips from Ashley Chill your coupes in the freezer for 10 minutes before pouring — it makes all the difference. Garnish with a lemon twist or a few floating cranberries for that extra holiday touch. Serve alongside a simple cheese board or small bite to keep things chic and effortless. Whether you’re hosting a full holiday party or enjoying a quiet festive evening at home, the Pink Lady brings the perfect pop of color and charm. Cheers to a beautiful season ahead — and even more beautiful moments shared around the table. xo, Ashley
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Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan & Lemon
A simple side I make on repeat — bright, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you’ve been around here for a while, you know I love a no-fuss recipe that still feels special on the table. This Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan & Lemon is one of those sides I’ve been making for years — it’s quick, fresh, and the perfect way to add something green without overthinking dinner. I actually wrote this recipe down on a scrap sheet of paper ages ago, and it has lived in my kitchen drawer ever since. It’s truly that dependable. The asparagus gets just the right amount of crisp in the oven, the parmesan melts into a salty, golden layer, and the squeeze of lemon at the end brings everything to life. It’s simple, but trust me, everyone always asks how to make it. What You’ll Need 1 bunch asparagus Olive oil Salt + pepper Freshly grated parmesan Fresh lemon juice How I Make It Trim the asparagus and spread it out on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper — nothing fancy, just enough to coat. Roast at 425°F for 10 minutes. Pull the pan out, sprinkle generously with parmesan, and pop it back in for 3–4 minutes until it melts and starts to get lightly golden. Transfer to a platter and finish with a big squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Serve warm — it’s always best right out of the oven. Ashley’s Tips Don’t skip the lemon… it makes the whole dish bright and delicious. If you want a little extra flavor, add cracked pepper or red pepper flakes. This pairs beautifully with chicken, salmon, pasta, or a holiday spread. This is one of those sides that somehow feels both effortless and elevated — the exact balance I’m always trying to hit in my kitchen. I hope you love it as much as we do. 💋🍋
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The Cheese Board — Simple, Stunning & Perfect for Any Gathering
Hi friends — Ashley here again! If you’ve been around my kitchen, you know one of my favorite things to make for guests is a really beautiful cheese board. It’s easy, unfussy, and always feels special — which is exactly what KISS Cooking is all about. Last week I put together a board for a family get-together, and I grabbed everything from Trader Joe’s… because sometimes the simplest option is also the best one. They have such an amazing cheese selection, fun seasonal items, and the prettiest olives. Truly a hostess’ best friend. So today I’m sharing exactly what I used, plus a few swaps and suggestions if you want to recreate it at home. ✨ Building the Perfect KISS Cheese Board ✨ From Ashley’s kitchen to yours Let’s Talk Cheese — My Go-To Picks from Trader Joe’s I love mixing textures so the board feels interesting and balanced. Here’s what I typically reach for: 1. A Soft CheeseSomething creamy that spreads beautifully.• Brie (TJ’s Double Crème Brie is a staple)• Goat cheese (their Honey Goat Cheese log is always a crowd-pleaser) 2. A Semi-Soft CheeseA little melty, a little mild — perfect for most palates.• Havarti• Fontina• TJ’s Unexpected Cheddar spreadable version if you can find it 3. A Hard or Aged CheeseFor depth and those salty, crumbly bites.• Unexpected Cheddar (an absolute must)• Aged Gouda• Parmesan or Pecorino if you want something extra sharp 4. Something Fun or SeasonalThis is where I add personality.• Cranberry Chevre during the holidays• Truffle Marcona almonds (not a cheese… but trust me)• A flavored cheddar or a Toscano cheese rubbed with black pepper or syrah The Olives — The Secret Star of the Board I always like having a briny, savory element on my boards because it cuts through all the richness. Trader Joe’s makes this easy — their olive selection is surprisingly good. Some of my favorites:• Castelvetrano olives (buttery + bright green)• Kalamata olives• Marinated green olives with herbs• Spanish Manzanilla olives• The trio olive pack — perfect when you want a mix without thinking If you want to elevate them, drain the liquid, drizzle with olive oil, add a squeeze of lemon, and finish with fresh herbs. It feels gourmet with zero effort. Pairing Everything Together To round out the board, I added:• Rosemary crackers + pita crackers• Seasonal fruit — grapes, pears, or figs• Honey (always)• A handful of nuts for crunch And because we’re keeping it simple, sweetheart — just arrange everything in loose clusters. Don’t overthink it. Cheese boards are supposed to look slightly undone and inviting. From My Kitchen to Yours Cheese boards are the easiest way to make guests feel welcomed the moment they walk in. They’re beautiful, they’re delicious, and they give you time back to actually enjoy your company. I hope this inspires your next gathering — whether it’s Thanksgiving week, a holiday party, or just a cozy night at home. Keep it simple, sweetheart.🤍 Ashley
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