From that infamous “Friday the 13th” in March when I said adios to my colleagues - and sense of normalcy - for the last time (thank you, pinche COVID-19), I’ve unearthed quite a few delicious food and ingredient discoveries - a desert oasis - binge-worthy series’ besides Tiger King (What? I didn’t love it like the rest of you people.) - and kick ass podcasts that make me giddy. So, without further ado…

Delicious discoveries

Ben & Jerry’s Chip Happens / If I need to elaborate as to why chocolate ice cream + potato chips + chocolate chunks marry beautifully, then we have no business being friends.

Ardovino’s Desert Crossing / While I enjoy perusing the Saturday morning farmer’s market, it’s this desert oasis’ sprawling compound and stunning al-fresco atmosphere that I crave. I honestly don’t know how/where to begin to describe or give some semblance of justice to this unique estate that is comprised of multiple event spaces, a “roadside inn,” a restaurant and bar whose menu utilizes the bountiful edible gifts from its gardens, a mobile food kiosk that’s housed in an old-school Airstream trailer (and serves the best homemade seasonal fruit scones anywhere), and the aforementioned Saturday farmer’s market.

If you live in the El Paso, Texas area and/or are planning to visit, Ardovino’s Desert Crossing is an absolute must!

Better Than Bouillon Roasted Chicken Base / My friend, Maria, turned me on to this magical savory base that I probably use on a daily basis for everything from stocks, sauces, sauteed veggies, marinades, etc. I will never use powdered bouillon again!

Swedish Fish Tropical Minis / These aren’t your granny’s Swedish Fish, people; these are your “I’m on an island in the Caribbean sipping on a frozen drink with a paper umbrella peeking out of it” Swedish Fish.

Birthday cake-flavored Kit Kat bars / Of every Kit Kat flavor I’ve sampled - the traditional chocolate version included - ‘Birthday Cake’ quite literally takes the cake. Pun intended.

My favorite binge-worthy series’/episodes

Netflix: the NYC episode of Somebody Feed Phil / The host, Phil Rosenthal, is a quirky ‘breath of fresh air’ who doesn’t take himself too seriously as he gallivants from restaurant to restaurant across the globe (…ahem, despite the fact that he wrote Everybody Loves Raymond). Think of him as the Jewish godfather you never had, but somehow always wanted: he’s equal parts funny, dorky, refreshing, and undeniably likable. And the NYC episode of this series is my absolute favorite; it’s the perfect depiction of the crazy, ugly, beautiful, smelly, incredible, and fascinating city in which I call home.

Netflix: Lenox Hill / Perhaps it’s the fact that I live two blocks from the namesake hospital, or that I always question not having pursued a career in nursing, but this series is excellent no matter where you’re located or what you should have done for a living.

Lifetime: Married at First Sight / OMG. Are you ready for this?? A panel of experts matches couples based on a whole slew of science-backed shit and then blindly pairs them together (as in they’ve never laid eyes on one another before) - and they’re literally “Married at First Sight.” After the ceremony, they go on a honeymoon before cohabiting for 6-weeks together - with cameras on their every move. (You’re welcome!)

Podcasts that make me laugh, cry, and blush

Diet Starts Tomorrow / Sammy and Aleen discuss topics surrounding diet culture and body image in an upbeat, present, and relatable manner. I respect their honesty and love that they broach subjects and issues that many of us struggle with on the reg, but may not be comfortable discussing beyond our shrink’s comfy sofa.

Girls Gotta Eat / Excellent relationship advice - including plenty of shit that will make you blush - from two funny, down-to-earth, and refreshingly vulnerable gals. I listen to them at least 3-4 days/week during my bike rides and find myself laughing out loud constantly.

Until we eat again,

The Lunch Belle