Author: Emily Gautreaux

Grilled Peaches and Creamy Ricotta — A Match Made for Summer

When the sun is high and the peaches are ripe, there’s no better way to celebrate summer than with a simple yet stunning dessert. Grilled Peaches with Whipped Ricotta and Spicy Honey brings together the sweetness of fresh fruit, the creamy indulgence of ricotta, and a warm drizzle of sweet heat that lingers on the tongue. Originally featured inLouisiana Cookin’, this recipe is both refreshingly light and rich in flavor. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a dessert that delivers elegance without fuss, perfect for backyard barbecues or relaxed weeknight dinners.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. In a blender or food processor, combine the ricotta cheese, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and kosher salt. Blend until completely smooth and light in texture. You want the consistency to be creamy and airy, almost like a spreadable mousse. Transfer to a medium-sized bowl and gently fold in the lemon zest and fresh thyme. This will add brightness and herbal depth to the creamy base. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the other components.
  2. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce, and Creole seasoning until fully combined. The honey should loosen slightly from the vinegar, creating a balanced sweet and tangy glaze.The hot sauce brings a subtle heat that lingers, while the Creole seasoning adds a touch of savory spice that elevates the entire dish. Set aside at room temperature.
  3. Preheat a cast-iron grill pan over medium heat for several minutes until evenly hot. Lightly brush the cut sides of the peach halves with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking and encourage caramelization. Carefully place them cut side down onto the grill pan. Cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes, or until dark grill marks form and the fruit begins to soften and release its juices. The goal is to achieve a seared surface while maintaining some structure and bite.
  4. To assemble, spoon generous dollops of the whipped ricotta onto individual serving plates or a large platter for sharing. Arrange the warm, grilled peaches on top of the ricotta, cut side up to catch the drizzle. Drizzle with the spicy honey mixture, letting it pool slightly on the ricotta and fruit. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios for crunch and color. Garnish with extra thyme leaves for a final touch of freshness and serve immediately.

Side Dishes:

To create a well-rounded summer menu, pair this dessert with savory dishes that complement its freshness and spice. Consider serving alongside:

Grilled Peaches with Whipped Ricotta and Spicy Honey is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of summer’s best flavors. With the juicy sweetness of ripe peaches, the velvety smoothness of lemon-thyme ricotta, and the bold zing of spiced honey, each bite delivers a satisfying harmony of taste and texture. Whether you’re wrapping up a backyard cookout or treating yourself to a weeknight delight, this dish is sure to impress. It’s the kind of dessert that feels indulgent yet effortless—perfect for making memories around the table. Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor, and a touch of Southern flair—what more could you ask for?

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Exploring the Coastal Gems of Lake Michigan

Stretching across four Midwestern states, the 1,600-mile shoreline of Lake Michigan is an expansive playground for beachgoers seeking white sand, rolling dunes, and iconic Great Lakes views. Unique among its fellow Great Lakes for being entirely within the United States, Lake Michigan borders Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, and Wisconsin. While the lake’s cool waters rarely climb above 73 degrees Fahrenheit, the scenery and outdoor activities more than compensate for the brisk swim, according to this travel blog article from Travel + Leisure. From serene boardwalk strolls to adrenaline-pumping dune climbs, Lake Michigan’s beach destinations offer something for every kind of
traveler.

On Michigan’s eastern shore lies Holland State Park, a picturesque blend of soft sand and Dutch-American culture. The park’s dual beaches and accessible boardwalks offer close views of the striking Big Red Lighthouse, a 19th-century beacon that’s among Michigan’s most photographed landmarks. North of Holland, Tunnel Park offers a literal passage through the dunes, while Kirk Park features trails, bluffs, and even an off-leash
beach area for dogs.

Adventure and relaxation converge at Silver Lake State Park, which stretches across 3,000 acres of beach, dunes, and forest. In addition to a tranquil swimming area and scenic trails, the park is home to a 450-acre off-road vehicle area, the only one of its kind east of the Mississippi. Nearby, Mac Wood's Dune Rides offers thrilling guided dune tours. Visitors can also climb the Little Sable Point Lighthouse for panoramic views of the shoreline.

A crown jewel of the region, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore spans more than 70,000 acres and boasts the largest freshwater dune system on the planet. With seven public beaches, including Platte Point Beach, and several scenic overlooks, this park is ideal for hiking, photography, and quiet contemplation. Certain areas allow for beach fires, and several beaches are open to leashed pets, though seasonal restrictions are in place to protect the habitat of endangered piping plovers.

Among Lake Michigan’s beloved inland destinations, Ludington State Park offers not one, but two lakeside beaches—one on Lake Michigan and another on Hamlin Lake. In addition to its iconic Big Sable Point Lighthouse, the park includes dunes, marshes, and forestland. Nearby Stearns Park features accessible amenities and free Wi-Fi, while Buttersville Park offers a pet-friendly beach and campgrounds.

Further south, Silver Beach County Park in St. Joseph, Michigan, invites visitors to enjoy volleyball, kayak rentals, and postcard-worthy views of North Pier lighthouses. The park’s location at the mouth of the St. Joseph River adds to its allure. With beach wheelchairs available in summer and amenities like outdoor showers and picnic areas, Silver Beach makes accessibility and comfort a priority.

In Illinois, Rosewood Beach in Highland Park has been transformed by a restoration project into a modern lakefront retreat. With a boardwalk, glass-walled interpretive center, and a designated swimming area, it’s a serene getaway just north of Chicago. Nearby Moraine Park features walking trails, a sculpture garden, and a dog-friendly atmosphere.

On Wisconsin’s western shore, North Beach in Racine spans 50 acres with live music, volleyball courts, and a long walking path along the Lake Michigan Pathway. The beach includes wheelchair mats to improve access, and while pets are prohibited on the sand, the beach remains a popular summer hangout.

In Indiana, Indiana Dunes National Park features nine beaches along the southern edge of the lake and more than 50 miles of hiking trails. West Beach is a standout for its showers and seasonal lifeguards, while the Dune Succession Trail and Lake View Beach offer top-notch scenery, especially at sunset.

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Louisiana Irises and Heritage Oaks: Moncus Park Botanical Mission

In the heart of Lafayette, Louisiana, Moncus Park has emerged as a vital green space and ecological sanctuary thanks to the guidance of its conservation director, Abbie Judice Acosta. With over 100 acres of land, including 20 acres of bottomland hardwood forest, the park offers both a refuge for native species and a public space for the community, as per this featured interview from The Advocate. 

Acosta, who holds a Master of Forestry from the University of Georgia and is a certified Acadiana Master Naturalist, has combined her academic training with professional experience at the Lafayette Consolidated Government and the Lafayette Economic Development Authority to lead Moncus Park’s conservation initiatives.

Over the past year, the park has focused heavily on trail development. Previously, much of the conservation team’s work centered on enhancing habitat for bird species affected by human activity. Acosta noted that purple martins, a migratory bird species experiencing gradual population decline, have returned in greater numbers due to targeted habitat restoration. Collaborations with organizations like Audubon Delta have allowed the team to band birds, track their migration patterns, and monitor nesting rates, contributing to regional conservation efforts beyond the park’s boundaries.

As an urban park, Moncus Park faces unique environmental challenges. Acosta emphasized that while the park cannot eliminate Lafayette’s flooding risks entirely, it can serve as a model for nature-based solutions that improve resilience. By managing stormwater with green infrastructure and native plants, the park demonstrates how landscapes can retain and filter water naturally. This approach also addresses the urban heat island effect, a phenomenon in which cities experience higher temperatures than surrounding rural areas. By planting and preserving trees, Moncus Park helps lower local temperatures and improve air quality.

The park’s proximity to the Vermilion River makes stormwater management even more critical. Positioned at the base of the watershed, Moncus Park plays a significant role in holding and filtering runoff. Native plant species are key to this effort, showcasing nature’s “superpowers” in action. Acosta has underscored the educational potential of such efforts, noting how these projects help the community learn about sustainable land management.

Among the many projects underway, Acosta expressed particular pride in the park’s work with Louisiana irises. The site is home to a growing collection of around 300 named cultivars, many of which have been donated by members of the Society for Louisiana Irises. These cultivars, developed through years of careful hybridization, reflect both the beauty and heritage of the region. The ongoing identification and cultivation of these irises help preserve Louisiana’s botanical legacy.

The preservation of Moncus Park’s heritage oaks stands as another central pillar of its conservation mission. These trees are a symbol of the land’s historic value and one of the main reasons the site was saved from development. In addition to protecting these natural landmarks, Acosta and her team have worked to design a trail network that is not only accessible and visitor-friendly, but also beneficial to local habitats.

Understanding Moncus Park’s significance requires looking beyond its modern history. Acosta pointed out that long before the University of Louisiana at Lafayette acquired the site, the land was part of a Cajun prairie—a native landscape that once covered the region. By restoring this ecosystem within the park, visitors can learn about the original appearance and function of this land.

The site’s history also includes its use by Native American tribes and early Acadian settlers. The area between the Vermilion River and Johnston Street represents a blend of natural and cultural heritage. Later, it became part of UL Lafayette’s property, famously known as “the horse farm.” Following a successful community campaign, the land was preserved and eventually evolved into the community-supported park seen today.

Moncus Park now stands as a forward-thinking space, one that honors its past while looking to the future. Through conservation strategies that reflect both ecological science and cultural heritage, the park continues to serve as an example of what urban green spaces can achieve.

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New LEAP Data Shows Louisiana Moves Closer to Excellence

The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) has released the 2025 results for the Louisiana Educational Assessment Program (LEAP), and the data shows promising signs of academic improvement. According to the latest report, the overall percentage of students in grades 3 through 8 who scored at the Mastery or Advanced levels (referred to as Mastery+) has risen by one percentage point. In the 2024–2025 academic year, 35 percent ofLouisiana students achieved Mastery+, up from 34 percent the previous year, as per this news release from LDOE.

Mathematics saw a particularly encouraging increase. The statewide Mastery+ rate for math among students in grades 3 through 8 climbed two percentage points to reach 33 percent. This improvement aligns with the LDOE’s larger strategy aimed at bolstering mathematics performance throughout the state. Since 2021, Louisiana has experienced a five-point increase in Mastery+ rates for these grade levels, highlighting steady and sustained academic gains.

A closer look at the results reveals that 80 percent of Louisiana’s school systems either maintained or improved their Mastery+ scores for grades 3–8. Similarly, 74 percent of systems saw stable or improved results across grades 3–12. These outcomes suggest that widespread efforts to improve instruction and student achievement are yielding positive results.

Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley credited teachers for the progress, noting that their dedication and hard work have been central to the state’s continued academic growth. However, he also emphasized that the journey is far from over. Brumley explained that while the upward trend is encouraging, Louisiana must intensify efforts to support its educators, elevate expectations for students, and maintain a clear focus on academic success.

This year’s results will contribute to school performance scores, which the LDOE is expected to release later in 2025. Notably, these will be the final performance scores calculated under Louisiana’s current accountability system. Beginning with the 2025–2026 academic year, LEAP results will feed into a revised accountability framework designed to elevate academic standards and better reflect student readiness.

The new accountability system aims to set higher expectations for schools while also placing a stronger emphasis oncareer readiness and making school performance data more accessible to the public. The first official scores using this revised system will be published in 2026.

One additional development of note is the early release of the LEAP results. For the first time since 2016, statewide LEAP data was made available in early July. On June 30, the LDOE distributed student-level reports to school systems, and system-level results were made public soon after. This earlier release schedule enables schools to prepare more effectively for the upcoming year by aligning instruction and support to meet current student needs.

The LDOE is urging school systems to share LEAP results with families as soon as possible. Parent guides and other resources are available on the department’s official website, offering explanations of test scores and suggestions for how families can support student learning.

LEAP assessments are administered to students in grades 3 through 12 and cover English language arts, math, science, and social studies. Students are evaluated using five performance levels: Unsatisfactory, Approaching Basic, Basic, Mastery, and Advanced. Those scoring at Mastery or Advanced levels are considered proficient, indicating that they are prepared for the next grade level without needing remediation.

As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance assessment quality, the LDOE is also preparing to release new social studies results later this year. These results will be based on updated standards known as the Freedom Framework, and the corresponding test was administered operationally for the first time during the 2024–2025 school year.

Together, these developments signal a critical moment of progress and transition for Louisiana’s public education system—one that blends measurable academic gains with strategic innovation and higher expectations.

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Vibrant and Fresh: Herbed Chicken with Zesty Arugula Salad

When the days grow long and the air turns warm, nothing satisfies quite like a fresh, vibrant meal that blends smoky grilled flavor with zesty seasonal produce. This Herbed Grilled Chicken with Harissa-Honey Arugula Salad from Louisiana Cookin offers exactly that: a balanced, nutritious plate bursting with flavor and texture. Herb-marinated chicken breasts are grilled to juicy perfection and paired with a colorful arugula salad tossed in a sweet and spicy harissa-honey vinaigrette. Packed with crisp vegetables, creamy feta, and crunchy smoked almonds, this dish is an easy yet elegant choice for summer lunches, outdoor dinners, or casual entertaining.

What sets this dish apart is the harmony of flavors and the attention to texture. The chicken is infused with bold herbs—parsley and thyme—and enhanced by the aromatic addition of sliced onion and kosher salt. A touch of olive oil brings the marinade together, helping the herbs penetrate the chicken. Once grilled, the chicken becomes the perfect companion to the salad’s medley of peppery arugula, delicate zucchini ribbons, and sweet orange bell pepper slices. Crumbled feta lends creamy richness, while chopped smoked almonds add an irresistible crunch.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 (6-ounce) package crumbled feta cheese
  • ¼ cup chopped smoked almonds
  • 1 (5-ounce) package baby arugula
  • 1 small zucchini, thinly shaved lengthwise
  • 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced and divided
  • 1 small orange bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • ¼ cup cane vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 teaspoons harissa paste
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt, divided

Directions:

  1. In a large bowl, mix together half the sliced onion, chopped parsley, 2 tablespoons olive oil, thyme, and 2 teaspoons kosher salt until fully combined. Add the chicken breasts and toss thoroughly to coat with the herb mixture. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator).
  2. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the used marinade. Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the outside is golden and an internal temperature of 165°F is reached. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  3. In a large serving bowl, combine the arugula, zucchini ribbons, sliced bell pepper, remaining onion, crumbled feta, and chopped smoked almonds.
  4. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the cane vinegar, honey, harissa paste, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of salt. Slowly stream in the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing is smooth and emulsified. Pour the harissa-honey vinaigrette over the salad and toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Serve the grilled chicken slices atop the dressed salad or alongside it on the plate.

Although this salad is hearty enough to stand on its own, it also pairs beautifully with a few complementary sides. Consider serving it with grilled flatbread or warm pita wedges to soak up the vinaigrette. A chilled melon and mint salad or a small bowl of couscous with lemon zest and herbs can add extra brightness. For a more filling meal, roasted sweet potatoes or a cold quinoa tabbouleh are excellent options.

This Herbed Grilled Chicken with Harissa-Honey Arugula Salad is a go-to recipe for those craving something healthy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. The herb-marinated chicken brings savory depth, while the salad keeps things light and exciting with every bite. The tangy-sweet-spicy vinaigrette ties it all together in a way that makes the meal feel special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether served for a solo lunch, a family dinner, or a gathering with friends, this dish captures the essence of summer on a plate.

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Breeze Expands in New Orleans with Routes to Top South Carolina Cities

Travelers departing from New Orleans now have convenient access to two standout destinations on the South Carolina coast: Charleston and Myrtle Beach. As per this article from The Advocate, these cities, which are celebrated for their distinct cultural offerings, historical landmarks, and scenic landscapes, are now within easier reach thanks to nonstop flights offered by Breeze Airways.

Breeze Airways, a low-cost carrier that began operations in 2021, has expanded its New Orleans offerings. Starting September 4, the airline introduced new direct service to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, with flights available on Thursdays and Sundays. One-way tickets start at $59. Additionally, Breeze resumed nonstop flights to Savannah, Georgia, beginning September 5, available on Mondays and Fridays, with fares starting at $49.

Kevin Dolliole, Director of Aviation at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, noted that these new routes enhance travel accessibility for the region’s residents while demonstrating the airline’s dedication to serving the local market. He emphasized that Breeze’s growth at the airport signals confidence in New Orleans as a travel hub.

Echoing that sentiment, Breeze Airways founder and CEO David Neeleman acknowledged the importance of New Orleans in the company’s expanding network. He expressed optimism about the airline’s continued growth in the city, pointing to the addition of Myrtle Beach and the return of Savannah as key steps forward.

Breeze Airways now operates more than 275 year-round and seasonal routes across 72 cities in 32 states, using a fleet of Airbus A220-300 aircraft. These aircraft are designed for comfort and efficiency, helping make shorter trips like those from New Orleans to Charleston or Myrtle Beach even more seamless.

One of the highlights of the current Breeze lineup is Charleston, South Carolina—a destination that shares architectural and cultural similarities with New Orleans. With its cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and marshland scenery, Charleston has long served as a picturesque backdrop for films such as The Notebook. Visitors often compare its charm to the historic French Quarter in New Orleans.

The city’s vibrant culture is reflected in its culinary offerings. Signature dishes such as she-crab soup, fresh oysters, and Hoppin’ John—a combination of rice, black-eyed peas, pork, and cornbread—highlight the region’s Gullah Geechee heritage. Local lore suggests that enjoying Hoppin’ John on New Year’s Day brings good fortune for the year ahead.

Charleston’s fine dining scene includes restaurants like Fig, which has produced two James Beard Awardwinners. Other standout spots include Frannie and the Fox, which specializes in inventive Italian cuisine, andPeninsula Grill, renowned for its coconut cake.

For panoramic South Carolina views, visitors can relax at Joe Riley Waterfront Park, home to the iconic Pineapple Fountain, or walk the Ravenel Bridge to neighboring Mount Pleasant for more coastal vistas. Shopping enthusiasts often gravitate to King Street, where high-end stores and local boutiques line a street often traveled by horse-drawn carriages.

Charleston, South Carolina also serves as a gateway to golfing destinations like Hilton Head and Kiawah Island. Breeze operates nonstop flights to Charleston from New Orleans on Sundays, Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays.

Myrtle Beach, located just up the coast, offers a different but equally vibrant experience. With a shoreline known as the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach features 60 miles of beaches and countless activities—from water parks and aquariums to amusement parks and golf courses.

One of the city’s most notable attractions is the SkyWheel, a 187-foot Ferris wheel offering sweeping views of the coastline. For a tranquil and artistic excursion, Brookgreen Gardens blends sculpture and nature across 9,000 acres. More secluded stretches of sand can be found at North Myrtle Beach’s Windy Hill Beach, where scenic views meet cozy restaurants and boutique shops nestled along the Intracoastal Waterway.

As Breeze Airways continues to expand its footprint in Louisiana, residents and visitors alike can enjoy increased options for exploring the southeastern coast.

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