Author: Emily Gautreaux

From Farm to Toast: A Simple Fig Jam You’ll Love

Few things capture the essence of late summer quite like ripe, juicy figs. Their soft texture, honeyed sweetness, and subtle floral notes make them one of the season’s most beloved fruits in the South. This homemade fig jam recipe from Louisiana Cookin celebrates the beauty of fresh figs by preserving their flavor in a luscious, spiced spread. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal effort, you can create a jam that’s both elegant and rustic—perfect for everything from your morning toast to an evening cheese board. The combination of figs, sugar, lemon, and cinnamon results in a preserve that tastes like it came straight from a jar at a Louisiana farmer’s market.

Whether you’re an experienced canner or just trying your hand at homemade preserves for the first time, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. It’s inspired by Southern kitchens where making jam from scratch is as much a tradition as it is a practical way to enjoy seasonal produce longer. You’ll love how easily it comes together—and how incredible your kitchen smells as it simmers.

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds fresh figs, washed, stemmed, and chopped
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • ½ teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Directions:

  1. Begin by placing the chopped figs in a large bowl. Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the top and toss everything gently to coat the fruit. This process, known as maceration, draws out the figs’ natural juices and helps dissolve the sugar. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours—or even overnight, if you have the time. The longer the mixture sits, the more the flavors will meld and develop.
  2. Transfer the fig and sugar mixture to an enamel-coated cast-iron Dutch oven, which provides even heat and prevents the sugar from scorching. Add the cinnamon sticks and bring everything to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally and keep an eye on it—the jam will thicken and darken as it cooks, usually within 30 to 45 minutes. Be sure to skim off any foam that rises to the surface; this keeps your jam smooth and clear.
  3. Once the jam coats the back of a spoon (a classic sign of readiness), stir in the lemon zest and juice. These final touches brighten up the flavor and balance the sweetness. Let the mixture cook for one more minute, then remove it from the heat.
  4. Carefully spoon the jam into a clean glass jar, seal it tightly, and allow it to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the jam. It will keep beautifully for up to a month—if it lasts that long!
  5. To serve, know that this jam is as versatile as it is delicious. Slather it over a warm, buttery biscuit or thick slice of crusty sourdough bread. It pairs wonderfully with soft cheeses like brie, goat cheese, or even mascarpone. Add it to a charcuterie board alongside cured meats, nuts, and crackers for a sophisticated touch at your next gathering. You can even spoon it over yogurt or use it as a filling for thumbprint cookies.

Suggested Side Dishes:

To round out your fig jam experience, consider these complementary options:

This fig jam recipe captures the nostalgic charm of Southern home cooking while offering a touch of elegance. With just five ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a preserve that’s rich, fragrant, and full of late-summer flavor. Whether you’re gifting it, savoring it slowly, or devouring it by the spoonful, this jam is bound to become a seasonal favorite in your home.

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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.

For more travel-related news and information, click here.

 

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.

For more Louisiana-related articles, click here.

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.

For more education-related information, click here.

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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