This year, the Epicurious app has been a treasure trove of culinary inspiration, featuring a vast collection of recipes meticulously tested and guaranteed to satisfy. The dishes that have resonated most deeply with our audience span a delightful spectrum, from hearty main courses to comforting sides and sweet indulgences. These are the 50 recipes that our readers have enthusiastically embraced and frequently saved, marking them as the year's undisputed favorites.
Culinary Highlights of the Year: A Feast for Every Palate
Among the standout selections, poultry-based dishes took center stage. The "faultless" Chicken Piccata, a swift Basil Chicken Stir-Fry, and the aromatic Herby Chicken Kofta Meatballs proved to be exceptionally popular, showcasing the versatility of chicken in home cooking. Soups also offered a warm embrace, with a curried lentil, tomato, and coconut creation by Yotam Ottolenghi earning accolades as "one of the best soups ever made." Not to be outdone, the Miso–Butternut Squash Soup, adorned with a chili crisp and salted peanuts, offered a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Beyond chicken and soups, the list boasts a range of innovative and comforting meals. The Golden Chicken with Mustard and Shallots promised juicy chicken breasts in a sauce so irresistible, one could wish to "bathe in it." For a convenient and flavorful option, the Sheet-Pan Chicken and Potatoes with Lemon became a beacon of brightness. Hearty and satisfying, White Chicken Chili, enriched with beans and corn, emerged as a crowd-pleaser, perfect for quick, one-pot preparation. Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Parmesan and Herbs presented a delightful side dish, praised for its simplicity and satisfying crunch.
Adventurous eaters savored the Mediterranean-inspired Sheet-Pan Chicken Souvlaki, featuring tender skewers alongside spiced chickpeas, fresh tomatoes, and feta. A make-ahead marvel, the Just-Keeps-Getting-Better Lentil Salad, was lauded for its ability to transform into a delicious desk lunch. For those seeking new flavors, Gochujang-Sesame Noodles delivered a vibrant, umami-rich experience, while Sticky Rice with Mango provided a sweet, traditional Thai dessert. The beloved Italian classic, Pasta al Limone, captivated with its zesty, creamy sauce.
Rounding out the diverse collection were dishes like Kung Pao Chicken, a flavorful journey into Chinese cuisine; Easiest Meatballs, simplifying weeknight dinner; and the comforting Dark and Stormy–Braised Pot Roast. Baked goods also made a strong showing with the Millionaire’s Shortbread offering a decadent treat and the Pistachio Bundt Cake promising to be the star of any gathering. The unexpectedly moist Chocolate Olive Oil Cake and the robust No-Knead Cheddar-Jalapeño Loaf further demonstrated the breadth of culinary delights.
For salad enthusiasts, the Crispy Rice Salad with Spicy Tahini Dressing and the Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Feta and Dates provided fresh and satisfying options. Other notable mentions included Crispy Salmon with Avocado Sauce, Skillet Chicken Parmesan with Gnocchi, Bob’s Chicken and Cabbage Salad, Grilled Buttermilk Chicken with Summer Salad, Grilled Peruvian Chicken with Green Sauce, and Citrus Shrimp Rice Bowls. Each recipe offers a unique blend of flavors and techniques, ensuring there's something to inspire every home cook.
The curated selection of the 50 most frequently saved recipes from the Epicurious app provides a compelling snapshot of contemporary home cooking trends and enduring favorites. These dishes not only highlight the importance of professionally tested, reliable recipes but also underscore a collective desire for meals that are both delicious and approachable. From intricate flavor profiles to weeknight-friendly solutions, this collection inspires creativity and confidence in the kitchen. For aspiring cooks and seasoned chefs alike, it serves as a testament to the joy and satisfaction derived from preparing and sharing exceptional food. As readers continue to explore these culinary gems, the Epicurious app remains a trusted companion, fostering a community united by a love for good food.
