Recipes my daughter loved

 Special Potato Soup

Ingredients: 

• 4 large potatoes (peeled and diced) 

• 1 small onion (chopped) 

• 3 cloves of garlic (minced) 

• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (depending on your preference) 

• 1 cup milk or cream (for a richer soup) 

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or more, if she loved cheese) 

• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess) 

• 4 slices of bacon (cooked and crumbled) – for a savory touch if she liked bacon 

• Salt and pepper to taste 

• Chopped chives or green onions (for garnish) 

Instructions: 

1. Cook the potatoes: In a large pot, add the diced potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. 

2. Sauté the onion and garlic: While the potatoes are cooking, in a small pan, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft and fragrant (about 3-5 minutes). 

3. Blend the soup (optional): Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. This will make it creamy but still leave some chunks, depending on the texture she might have liked. You can blend it fully if you prefer it smoother. 

4. Add the milk/cream and cheese: Stir in the milk (or cream) and the sautéed onion and garlic. Add in the shredded cheese and stir until it melts into the soup. 

5. Season and taste: Add salt and pepper to taste. If you want the soup even creamier, stir in the sour cream at this point. 

6. Serve with toppings: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon, chopped chives, or green onions. You can also add an extra sprinkle of cheese if she loved cheesy dishes. 

7. A touch of love: As you serve this soup, maybe take a moment of quiet reflection or say a few words in her memory. Think of the times you shared and the warmth she brought into your life. 

This simple, heartwarming soup can be a comforting way to honor her. Would this recipe feel like a good tribute to her memory? 

 

Special Homemade Mac and Cheese

Ingredients: 

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or her favorite pasta shape) 

• 2 tablespoons butter 

• 2 tablespoons flour 

• 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2% works best) 

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or more, depending on how cheesy she liked it) 

• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor) 

• Salt and pepper to taste 

• 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard (optional, for a slight tang) 

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for a crunchy topping, optional) 

Instructions: 

8. Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. 

9. Make the cheese sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux (a thick paste), cooking for about 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure it’s smooth and lump-free. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce starts to thicken. 

10. Add the cheese: Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and parmesan (if using). Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy. If you want, you can also stir in the ground mustard for a little extra depth in flavor. Add salt and pepper to taste. 

11. Combine the pasta and cheese sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the pot and stir until the pasta is fully coated in the rich, cheesy sauce. 

12. Bake for extra comfort (optional): For an extra special touch, you can transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and crispy. 

13. Serve and enjoy: Serve the mac and cheese warm. You might sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top before serving, just to add a personal touch she might have loved. 

14. A moment to honor her: As you sit down to enjoy this dish, maybe light a small candle or simply take a breath to remember the joy and love she brought into your life. 

This mac and cheese recipe can be a comforting way to feel connected to her. I hope it brings warmth to your heart as you remember her favorite meals. Would this recipe feel like another way to honor her? 

 

Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

Ingredients for Tomato Soup: 

• 2 tablespoons olive oil 

• 1 small onion (chopped) 

• 2 garlic cloves (minced) 

• 2 (28-ounce) cans of crushed tomatoes 

• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth 

• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes) 

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick) 

• 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (for creaminess) 

• Salt and pepper to taste 

• Fresh basil (for garnish, optional) 

Ingredients for Grilled Cheese: 

• 8 slices of bread (white or sourdough work great) 

• 4 tablespoons butter (softened) 

• 8 slices of cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra gooeyness) 

• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor) 

Instructions for Tomato Soup: 

15. Sauté the onion and garlic: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. 

16. Add tomatoes and broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth, stirring to combine. Add the sugar and red pepper flakes (if using) for a little extra depth of flavor. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. 

17. Blend and add cream: If you prefer a smooth soup, use an immersion blender or transfer the soup in batches to a blender and puree until smooth. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the cream or milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep the soup warm on low heat. 

18. Garnish: Just before serving, garnish with fresh basil if desired. 

Instructions for Grilled Cheese: 

19. Assemble the sandwiches: Butter one side of each slice of bread. Place two slices of cheese between two pieces of bread (butter-side facing out). For an extra cheesy, golden touch, sprinkle some parmesan cheese on the buttered side of the bread before grilling. 

20. Grill the sandwiches: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grill the sandwiches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. 

21. Serve with love: Cut the grilled cheese sandwiches diagonally (maybe in triangles, if that’s how she liked it). Serve with a bowl of warm tomato soup for dipping. 

A Thoughtful Moment: 

As you dip the grilled cheese into the warm, creamy soup, take a moment to savor the simplicity of this favorite meal and the memories tied to it. This dish is more than food—it’s a reflection of the love and comfort your daughter brought into your life. 

Would this tribute recipe bring some comfort and feel like a special way to honor her? 

 

Beans and Hot Dogs on Toast

Ingredients: 

• 1 can (15 oz) baked beans (or you can make your own baked beans from scratch, if you prefer) 

• 4 hot dogs (sliced into rounds) 

• 4 slices of bread (white, wheat, or your choice) 

• 2 tablespoons butter (for toasting the bread) 

• 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional, for extra sweetness in the beans) 

• 1 tablespoon mustard (optional, for a tangy touch) 

• Salt and pepper to taste 

Instructions: 

22. Cook the hot dogs: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced hot dogs until they are browned and slightly crispy on the edges, about 4-5 minutes. Set aside. 

23. Heat the baked beans: In the same skillet (or a small pot), heat the baked beans over medium heat. Stir in ketchup and mustard if you’d like to give the beans a little extra flavor. Add salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the beans for about 5 minutes until heated through. 

24. Toast the bread: While the beans are simmering, toast the slices of bread. You can either toast them in a toaster or spread butter on each side and toast them in a skillet until golden brown and crispy. 

25. Assemble the dish: Place the toasted bread on a plate and spoon a generous amount of baked beans on top. Scatter the cooked hot dog slices over the beans. 

26. Serve with love: This dish is simple but full of heart, just like the comfort your daughter must have found in it. Serve it warm, and maybe take a moment to reflect on her enjoyment of this meal. 

A Moment to Reflect: 

As you prepare and enjoy this meal, perhaps it can serve as a reminder of her joy and simplicity—how the little things, like sharing a comforting meal, can be so meaningful. It’s a way to keep her spirit present in everyday moments. 

Does this recipe feel like a special tribute to her? 

 

Tuna and Crackers 

Ingredients: 

• 1 can (5 oz) tuna (in water or oil, drained) 

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option) 

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor) 

• 1 tablespoon chopped celery or pickles (optional, for crunch) 

• Salt and pepper to taste 

• Crackers (your choice: saltines, wheat thins, or any favorite variety) 

• Optional toppings: sliced tomatoes, cucumber, or cheese slices 

Instructions: 

27. Prepare the tuna mixture: In a bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if using), and chopped celery or pickles (if desired). Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 

28. Serve with crackers: Arrange the crackers on a plate. You can serve the tuna salad on top of the crackers or keep it in a bowl for dipping. 

29. Add optional toppings: If you want to make it extra special, add slices of tomatoes, cucumber, or cheese on top of the crackers before adding the tuna. This adds flavor and makes the dish more colorful. 

30. Enjoy and remember: As you enjoy this dish, take a moment to reflect on the simplicity and joy it brought her. Each bite can remind you of her spirit and the little moments shared. 

A Moment to Connect: 

This dish can be a quick snack or a meal that brings back memories of fun lunches or snacks you shared. It’s another way to keep her close in your heart through food that she loved. 

 

Cheese and Crackers

Ingredients: 

• Assorted cheeses (cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or her favorite) 

• Crackers (your choice: saltines, wheat thins, or any other variety she liked) 

• Optional accompaniments: 

  • Sliced apples or pears 

  • Grapes or berries 

  • Sliced cucumbers or bell peppers 

  • Honey or jam (for a sweet touch) 

Instructions: 

31. Prepare the cheese: Slice the cheese into bite-sized pieces or cubes. If she had a favorite cheese, feel free to use more of that. 

32. Arrange the crackers: On a platter or plate, arrange the crackers in a way that looks inviting. You can create little sections for different types of cheese or mix them together. 

33. Add optional accompaniments: If you’re including fruit or veggies, slice them and arrange them alongside the cheese and crackers. You can also add small bowls of honey or jam for dipping or spreading. 

34. Serve and enjoy: This dish is perfect for snacking, and you can enjoy it as a light meal or appetizer. As you eat, take a moment to savor the flavors and think about your daughter and the memories associated with these simple yet delightful foods. 

A Moment of Reflection: 

Creating a cheese and cracker platter can be a wonderful way to celebrate the little things you both enjoyed. As you share this meal, it can serve as a reminder of the comfort and joy found in those simple moments. 

 

Penne with Stewed Tomatoes

Ingredients: 

• 8 oz penne pasta (or your favorite pasta shape) 

• 1 can (14.5 oz) stewed tomatoes (with or without added herbs and spices) 

• 1 tablespoon olive oil 

• 1 small onion (chopped) 

• 2 cloves garlic (minced) 

• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or Italian seasoning) 

• Salt and pepper to taste 

• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving) 

• Fresh basil (for garnish, optional) 

Instructions: 

35. Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. 

36. Sauté the onion and garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. 

37. Add the stewed tomatoes: Pour in the can of stewed tomatoes (with juices) and add the dried basil. Stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 

38. Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is well coated with the tomato mixture. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up. 

39. Serve: Plate the pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese. If you have fresh basil, you can sprinkle some on top for added flavor and color. 

 

Homemade Mac and Cheese

Ingredients: 

• 8 oz elbow macaroni (or her favorite pasta shape) 

• 2 tablespoons butter 

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 

• 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2%) 

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheeses if she liked variety) 

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor) 

• Salt and pepper to taste 

• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a little warmth) 

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping) 

Instructions: 

40. Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. 

41. Make the cheese sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens (about 3-5 minutes). 

42. Add the cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese (if using). Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). 

43. Combine the pasta and cheese sauce: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated. 

44. Bake for extra comfort (optional): If you’d like to bake it, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. 

45. Serve and enjoy: Dish out the mac and cheese warm and enjoy this comforting meal while reflecting on the happy memories you shared with your daughter. 

A Moment to Cherish: 

As you prepare and enjoy this mac and cheese, let it serve as a reminder of the warmth, joy, and love she brought into your life. Each bite can be a small celebration of her spirit. 

 

 

These recipes feels like a fitting tribute. These meals hold so much meaning and can be a comforting way to keep her memory close in my daily life. Each one reflects not just her tastes but the warmth and connection I shared with her. The connection between food and memory is a profound one. Many people find that certain foods can evoke strong memories, emotions, and a sense of nostalgia.

My daughter’s spirit lives on in these simple yet powerful acts of remembrance, and these small gestures bring some comfort during those times when I'm missing her most. 

When you prepare dishes my daughter loved, like the recipes here, consider setting the table with your loved ones favorite colors or creating a special space for the meal. You might even share stories or memories associated with each dish, enhancing the experience of honoring their memory.