Author: Emily Gautreaux

Pasta Carbonara With Pancetta: Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

There’s no debating pasta carbonara’s standing in the pantheon of Italian pasta recipes. A Roman classic, its glossy sauce is built from eggs, hard cheese, cured pork, and black pepper—no cream required. This version of the pasta carbonara recipe from Epicurious relies on egg yolks, finely grated Parmesan cheese, rendered pancetta fat, and starchy pasta water—nothing more. As the pancetta cooks, its savory, aromatic drippings become the backbone of the dish, while a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper keeps the richness in check. The key is timing. The eggs and cheese are whisked together off heat, then gently tossed with hot pasta until silky and emulsified, never scrambled. Traditionalists can swap pancetta for guanciale or Parmesan for Pecorino Romano, but the result remains the same: a spare but luxurious, deeply satisfying pasta carbonara that’s ready in about 25 minutes.

Ingredients:

  • ● 12 oz. mezze rigatoni 
  • ● smashed 4 oz. pancetta (Italian bacon) cut into ½” pieces 
  • ● 3 oz. Parmesan, finely grated (about 2 cups) 
  • ● 6 large egg yolks 
  • ● 1 large egg 
  • ● 2 garlic cloves
  • ● Kosher salt 
  • ● 2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

1. Cook 2 garlic cloves, smashed, and 4 oz. pancetta (Italian bacon), cut into ½” pieces, in a dry large skillet over medium heat, stirring often, until garlic is fragrant and browned in spots and pancetta is beginning to crisp, about 4 minutes. (It’s okay that the garlic will be cooking in a dry skillet before the fat renders from the pancetta.) Set a fine-mesh sieve over a small bowl and scrape pancetta mixture into sieve to drain. Pluck out and discard garlic. Transfer pancetta to a small bowl and let cool. Set fat from pancetta aside. 

2. Whisk together 6 large egg yolks and 1 large egg in a medium bowl. Add 3 oz. Parmesan, finely grated (about 2 cups), and whisk to combine.  Meanwhile, cook 12 oz. mezze rigatoni in a large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally, until very al dente, about 1 minute less than package directions. Drain, reserving 1 cup pasta cooking liquid. Reserve pot. 

4. Stir 1 Tbsp. reserved pancetta fat and ¼ cup warm pasta cooking liquid into egg mixture. Combine egg mixture, pancetta, pasta, and another ¼ cup pasta cooking liquid in reserved pot and place over low heat. Cook, stirring constantly and adding more pasta cooking liquid as needed (up to remaining ½ cup), until sauce thickens and coats pasta in a glossy sheen, about 3 minutes. Remove pasta from heat, add 2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, and season with kosher salt. Divide pasta among shallow bowls to serve.

Notes:

Pasta carbonara was traditionally served on its own, but it paired well with simple accompaniments. A crisp green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil provided contrast to the richness of the pasta. Roasted vegetables, such as broccolini or asparagus, also worked well alongside the dish without overwhelming it.

For those looking to explore variations, pancetta could be replaced with guanciale for a more traditional Roman profile, while Pecorino Romano could stand in for Parmesan for a sharper, saltier finish. Mezze rigatoni worked especially well because its ridges held onto the sauce, but spaghetti or bucatini were equally suitable.

This pasta carbonara with pancetta demonstrated how restraint often led to the most memorable results. By focusing on technique and timing rather than extra ingredients, the dish delivered depth, richness, and balance in every bite. Ready in about 25 minutes, it was an ideal example of how classic Italian cooking turned simplicity into something luxurious. When prepared with care, carbonara remained one of the most satisfying pasta dishes ever created.

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The Future of Southern Travel Starts in These Cities

Travel experts looking ahead to 2026 continued to point to the Southern United States as one of the country’s most dynamic regions for travel in this article from Southern Living. Southern Travel highlights milestone celebrations, major sporting events, cultural revivals, and thoughtful new development, several Southern cities were expected to stand out in the year ahead. From art-forward mountain towns to refined coastal communities, these destinations offered variety, accessibility, and a strong sense of place that rewarded intentional travel planning.

Bentonville, Arkansas

Bentonville has increasingly positioned itself as a cultural and creative destination, and 2026 was expected to accelerate that momentum thanks to America 250, the nationwide celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Rather than competing with heavy crowds in Washington, D.C., travelers were encouraged to explore this more approachable and affordable alternative. The city’s evolution has been driven in large part by the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, which blends American history with contemporary expression across thoughtfully designed galleries set amid walking trails and reflective ponds. Nearby, The Momentary added a forward-looking layer to the city’s appeal, transforming a former industrial space into a hub for performances, exhibitions, film screenings, and hands-on workshops. Bentonville’s growing culinary scene and the December 2025 opening of The Compton Hotel near the downtown square further reinforced its status as a polished yet welcoming arts destination.

Palm Beach, Florida

Palm Beach remained a strong contender for travelers seeking a refined coastal experience in 2026. Known for its pristine beaches, iconic architecture, and carefully curated shopping districts, the town offered a quieter and more polished alternative to nearby Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Longstanding institutions like Green’s Pharmacy connected visitors to the town’s history, while newer waterfront dining destinations reflected Palm Beach’s continued evolution. With warm weather throughout the year and a compact, scenic layout, Palm Beach appealed to travelers drawn to an effortless escape rooted in elegance, tradition, and a distinctly coastal aesthetic.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville was expected to draw increased attention in 2026 with the debut of the Biltmore Championship, a new PGA Tour event scheduled for early fall. Timed perfectly with apple harvests and the first hints of autumn color in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the tournament added to Asheville’s already strong seasonal appeal. Lodging options at the historic Biltmore Estate and nearby mountain resorts placed visitors close to both the action and the region’s natural beauty. Beyond golf, Asheville continued to stand out for its revitalized neighborhoods, live music venues, expanding culinary scene, and access to hiking trails and scenic overlooks.

Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta was poised to welcome a global audience in 2026 as one of the host cities for the FIFA World Cup. Downtown accommodations within walking distance of the stadium made the city especially convenient for visitors attending matches, while luxury properties such as The St. Regis Atlanta offered a more tranquil retreat outside the city center. Travelers interested in balancing large-scale events with quieter experiences could venture north to Barnsley Resort in Adairsville, where restored cottages, outdoor recreation, and heritage-inspired design reflected one of the leading travel trends of the year.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston rounded out the list as a destination that continued to refine its balance of history, gastronomy, and coastal sophistication. In late 2025, the city’s restaurant scene earned its first Michelin stars, signaling growing national recognition for its culinary excellence. Looking ahead to 2026, travelers anticipated the opening of The Cooper hotel along the riverfront, the expansion of boutique properties such as The Pinch, and new art spaces emerging along King Street. Charleston’s ongoing investment in culture, design, and hospitality ensured its place as one of the South’s most compelling cities to visit in the coming year.

Together, these five destinations highlighted why the South remained an essential region for travelers seeking meaningful, memorable experiences in 2026—offering history, creativity, natural beauty, and thoughtful growth across a wide range of settings.

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Louisiana’s Reading Revival Gains National Recognition

The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) was awarded $15 million to lead a multi-year national study focused on strengthening literacy outcomes through expanded high-dosage tutoring, as per this news release from LDOE. The competitive grant was awarded through the U.S. Department of Education’s Education Innovation and Research (EIR) program, a federal initiative designed to support evidence-based solutions that improve student achievement. The award recognized Louisiana’s sustained leadership in literacy reform (reading revival) and reflected years of strategic investment by state lawmakers and the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) to improve early reading instruction.

According to State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley, the grant represented national confidence in Louisiana’s approach to literacy improvement. He emphasized that state-led solutions, when paired with research and accountability, can accelerate student outcomes. The EIR award followed a period of steady progress in reading proficiency and positioned Louisiana as a testing ground for scalable, evidence-based tutoring models that could inform policy decisions nationwide.

The $15 million award funded a five-year research study designed to evaluate and expand high-dosage literacy tutoring for first- and second-grade students reading below grade level. Approximately 4,500 students were expected to participate across a diverse mix of rural, suburban, and urban elementary schools. Both traditional public schools and charter schools were included, with LDOE prioritizing campuses with low literacy proficiency rates. At least one-quarter of participating schools were designated as rural, ensuring the study reflected the geographic and demographic diversity of Louisiana’s education system.

LDOE was responsible for coordinating the initiative, selecting participating schools, managing partnerships, tracking student progress, and sharing results publicly. By placing the state education agency at the center of the research effort, the project reinforced Louisiana’s commitment to transparency, data-driven decision-making, and statewide capacity-building rather than isolated pilot programs.

Several key partners supported the implementation and evaluation of the initiative. Air Reading played a central role in delivering high-dosage tutoring and training tutors through its Teacher Academy. Studyville aligned Louisiana-based curriculum resources to ensure tutoring instruction matched classroom expectations and state standards. Johns Hopkins University served as the independent evaluator, providing rigorous research oversight and analysis. Louisiana higher education institutions also participated by recruiting and supporting college students as literacy tutors, strengthening the educator pipeline while expanding instructional capacity.

Leaders from partner organizations highlighted the importance of collaboration in achieving lasting literacy gains with this reading revival. Air Reading CEO Xing Zhang reflected on the organization’s experience supporting tens of thousands of Louisiana students and expressed enthusiasm for expanding access while studying what worked across varied communities. Studyville CEO Amanda Martin emphasized that the partnership built on Louisiana’s recent reading gains and demonstrated how state-specific curriculum alignment could drive national impact. Johns Hopkins University Deputy Director of Evidence Research Amanda Neitzel underscored that aligned partnerships between state agencies, tutoring providers, and districts created conditions where students benefited most.

Louisiana’s selection for the EIR award built upon measurable progress in reading achievement. The state rose to 16th nationally in fourth-grade reading on the National Assessment of Educational Progress, commonly known as The Nation’s Report Card, after ranking 50th in 2019. This improvement reflected a comprehensive literacy strategy grounded in policy alignment, educator training, and targeted student support.

The policy framework supporting these efforts included Acts 520 and 517 of 2022, which established a universal K–3 literacy screener and required high-quality, research-based instructional materials. Bulletin 741 further ensured students were screened three times per year to identify reading gaps early. Over the past two years, Louisiana lawmakers committed approximately $70 million to expand high-dosage tutoring during and beyond the school day, reinforcing the sustainability of the initiative.

As the five-year reading revival study progressed, Louisiana’s work was expected to provide valuable insights into how high-dosage tutoring could be scaled effectively across varied school settings. The initiative not only strengthened literacy instruction for thousands of students but also positioned Louisiana as a national model for state-led, research-driven education reform.

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A French Quarter Favorite Makes OpenTable’s Top 100 List-GW Fins

Louisiana has long been recognized for its rich culinary traditions, refined dining culture, and bold coastal flavors, with New Orleans consistently leading the way. In 2025, that reputation was further reinforced when GW Fins earned national recognition as one of OpenTable’s Top 100 Restaurants according to this article from The Daily Advertise. The honor placed the French Quarter seafood destination among the most sought-after dining experiences in the United States, based on diner demand and verified guest reviews.

OpenTable’s annual Top 100 list was determined through insights collected directly from diners who booked and reviewed meals through the platform. As one of the country’s leading restaurant reservation and discovery services, OpenTable evaluated thousands of establishments using metrics tied to consistency, guest satisfaction, and overall dining experience. The inclusion of GW Fins reflected not only its popularity but also its continued ability to deliver high-quality seafood cuisine in a competitive national landscape.

Located in a stylishly updated warehouse space in the French Quarter, GW Fins built its reputation on a creative and constantly evolving menu centered on fresh seafood. The restaurant became widely regarded as a seafood authority in New Orleans, offering dishes that balanced classic Gulf Coast influences with modern culinary refinement. According to OpenTable, menu standouts included traditional barbecue shrimp alongside more elevated offerings such as lobster dumplings, allowing diners to experience both familiarity and innovation in a single meal.

Seasonality played a defining role in the GW Fins dining experience. Prior to the restaurant’s national recognition, the culinary team described its approach as one where seasonal seafood met precise technique. Each dish was prepared to enhance the natural flavor and texture of the day’s freshest catch, rather than overshadow it. This philosophy guided everything from ingredient selection to final presentation, ensuring that seafood remained the focal point of every plate.

Executive Chef Michael Nelson and Chef/Owner Tenney Flynn were central to maintaining that standard. According to OpenTable, the leadership team ensured exceptional quality by sourcing seafood from both local waters and international fisheries, flying in select products when necessary to meet exacting standards. Their commitment to freshness was reflected in the restaurant’s practice of printing its menu daily, a detail that underscored the constantly shifting nature of the offerings and the reliance on what was available at peak quality.

In addition to its culinary focus, GW Fins cultivated an atmosphere that aligned with its fine dining identity while remaining approachable. The restaurant maintained a dress code intended to preserve a polished dining environment without requiring formal attire. Coats and ties were not necessary, but guests were expected to wear slacks, dress jeans, or dress shorts, with collared shirts required for gentlemen. Athletic wear, t-shirts, cut-off shorts, and baseball caps were not permitted, a standard consistent with many high-end restaurants throughout downtown New Orleans.

The OpenTable recognition highlighted GW Fins’ role in shaping New Orleans’ contemporary dining scene and reaffirmed the city’s influence on American cuisine. By combining meticulous sourcing, seasonal creativity, and a refined yet welcoming atmosphere, the restaurant continued to attract diners seeking a standout seafood experience rooted in both tradition and innovation.

The national acknowledgment also underscored the broader strength of New Orleans’ culinary ecosystem, where tradition and innovation frequently operated side by side. In a city known for its historic foodways and competitive restaurant scene, continued recognition required more than reputation alone. Together, these factors solidified GW Fins’ standing as a place where craftsmanship, quality, and coastal flavor consistently converged.

For more Louisiana-related articles, click here.

Cast-Iron Venison with Raspberry–Blackberry Reduction

Dishes that feature wild game have long held a significant place in the culinary traditions of Louisiana, particularly in regions where hunting is woven into seasonal rhythms. This refined preparation for Loin of Venison with Blackberries over Mixed Greens, from Louisiana Cookin, highlights the delicate flavor of venison, pairing its lean, earthy profile with bright berries and fresh greens. The technique showcased here mirrors the style often associated with Chef John D. Folse, whose work has shaped conversations around regional foodways across South Louisiana and beyond.

This recipe begins by emphasizing the importance of proper seasoning—an element frequently celebrated in the culinary philosophy of institutions such as the Chef John Folse Culinary Institute at Nicholls State University. Coarse salt, cracked black pepper, granulated garlic, and fresh thyme come together to form an aromatic rub. This mix enhances the venison’s natural depth while complementing the fruit-based topping that appears later in the dish. Thoroughly patting the meat dry allows the seasoning to adhere properly and assists with browning once the tenderloin reaches the skillet.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Pat the venison dry thoroughly with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix coarse salt, ground black pepper, granulated garlic, and fresh thyme. Rub the seasoning evenly over the tenderloin.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the venison and brown on all sides, rotating as needed to create an even crust.
  3. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 10–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°–140°F. Remove from oven and allow the meat to rest.
  4. In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced shallots and sauté for 2–3 minutes, or until caramelized. Stir in balsamic vinegar, followed by blackberries and raspberries. Warm the berries gently, stirring occasionally.
  5. Pour the warm berry mixture over mesclun greens and toss lightly. Divide the salad among serving plates. Slice the rested venison into ½-inch slices and arrange over each portion of greens. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve immediately.

This preparation of Loin of Venison with Blackberries over Mixed Greens brings together methods and ingredients closely connected to Louisiana’s regional foodways, particularly those rooted in a longstanding appreciation for wild game and seasonal produce. The combination of seared venison, caramelized shallots, balsamic vinegar, and the brightness of fresh berries reflects a culinary approach that values contrast—melding savory depth with fruity acidity. These flavors echo the type of refined yet approachable dishes highlighted across Southern dining, where berry reductions and cast-iron searing techniques often appear alongside traditional preparations. The warm berry mixture,softened gently to maintain shape, adds both visual appeal and aromatic richness, reinforcing the dish’s focus on celebrating naturally vibrant ingredients.

When served over mesclun greens, the final plate captures a balance that aligns rustic elements with more contemporary Southern sensibilities. The lean texture of the venison contrasts with the lightly wilted greens, while the berry glaze provides a finishing note that unifies color, flavor, and texture. Presentations such as this underscore how game meats can be showcased in elegant, restaurant-quality formats without losing their regional identity. By pairing earthy venison with seasonal fruit and a bed of contrasting greens, the dish demonstrates the versatility of wild game within modern cuisine and offers a visually striking centerpiece suitable for both casual gatherings and more formal dining occasions.

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Winter Warmth in the Heart of the Great Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains create an unforgettable backdrop for a winter escape, and the season becomes even more atmospheric at the Dollywood DreamMore Resort in Pigeon Forge, as per this travel blog article from Southern Living. With festive décor, seasonal activities, and seamless access to Dollywood, the resort embraces the spirit of the holidays while offering plenty of opportunities to unwind between adventures. Visitors find a warm, welcoming environment designed to highlight the best of the Smokies during the most magical time of year.

A stay at DreamMore provides effortless access to Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, one of the region’s most anticipated holiday events. The theme park glows with more than six million lights, turning every walkway and building into a brilliant display. Nighttime visits feel especially enchanting as colorful tunnels, illuminated trees, and synchronized light shows transform the entire park. With DreamMore’s complimentary trolley service, traveling back and forth is simple, allowing guests to experience Dollywood both during the day and again at night when the lights shine at their fullest.

Holiday crafts add even more opportunities to unwind. The resort offers festive DIY kits—everything from ornaments to decorative keepsakes—for an easy, hands-on evening activity. These project kits are ideal for travelers who want to take home something personal and reflective of their holiday stay.

Music also plays a central role in the DreamMore experience. Throughout the season, live performers fill the lobby with classic Christmas songs, creating a warm, old-fashioned atmosphere. The combination of soft lighting, decorated trees, and live music often encourages guests to linger long after they planned to move on, enjoying the resort’s inviting holiday rhythm.

Food enthusiasts will want to try the famous cinnamon bread from Dollywood’s Grist Mill. Conveniently, the same warm, buttery loaf is also available at Song & Hearth inside the DreamMore Resort. Rich, gooey, and generously spiced, the bread has become a beloved tradition for many visitors, especially during the holiday season.

Accommodations at the resort are modern, spacious, and designed to maximize comfort during a winter stay. Many rooms offer mountain views or glimpses of the illuminated grounds, adding to the seasonal atmosphere. December typically brings moderate to high nightly rates—around $300—with amenities such as an indoor pool, full-service spa, fire pits, a fitness center, and convenient transportation to Dollywood included.

Travel to the DreamMore is straightforward, with McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville located about an hour away. Renting a car is recommended, both for convenience and for the opportunity to explore nearby destinations, includingGatlinburg and the scenic roads leading into Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With a personal vehicle, visitors can easily pair holiday relaxation with outdoor exploration.

Planning ahead helps ensure a smooth seasonal visit. Early booking is essential since December fills quickly, especially on weekends. The resort’s perks—such as TimeSaver Line Access and a direct shuttle to Dollywood—offer significant benefits during the busy holiday period. Allowing time for rest is equally important; the resort’s serene indoor pool, cozy corners, and welcoming atmosphere make it easy to slow down and enjoy quiet moments between outings.

With festive decorations, warm traditions, and close proximity to one of the country’s most celebrated holiday theme park events, the DreamMore Resort offers a memorable seasonal retreat in the Smoky Mountains. The combination of thoughtful programming, scenic surroundings, and genuine hospitality creates a holiday experience that feels deeply connected to the spirit of the region.

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