14 Très Chic Recipes to Celebrate like a French Girl for Bastille Day

Kate Thorn
Jul 14, 2015

July 14 is known around the world as Bastille Day, a French holiday commemorating the beginning of the French revolution. It was a time of political turmoil and saying au revoir to Marie Antoinette (and her cake), but now the holiday is all about celebrating everything French. And what better way to do that than with French food? It’s time to pop a bottle of Champagne, bake up a batch of macarons and enjoy every delicious thing the French have brought into our kitchens. Bon appétit!

1. Macarons: Pretty treats like these are sure to get lots of oohs and aahs. Don’t be intimidated by the long recipe, because with a little time and care, you can bake up a batch along with the best chefs. (via Catalyst Cupcakes)

2. Cream Puffs: To achieve this creamy perfection, start with an eggy dough that is piped onto sheet pans and baked. Then cut open the puffs and fill them with cream or ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce. You can also make a savory version of these with cheddar cheese and chives. (via Baked Bree)

3. Steak Béarnaise: Béarnaise is a classic French sauce that’s perfect for serving alongside seared steak. Top the dish with shoestring fries, or frites, as the French call them. (via Food and Wine)

4. Ratatouille: While the French are famous for their meat dishes, they also know how to do a vegetarian dish with the same amount of style. This classic ratatouille captures all the flavors of summer in a rustic vegetable stew. (via MJ and Hungryman)

5. Croissants: Probably the most French thing you can make is a fresh croissant. But be warned: Even though these are time-consuming to make, once you’ve tried the handmade thing, you’ll never go back to those grocery-store options again. (via House of Bakes)

6. Crème Brûlée: You would find this classic dessert at pretty much any French restaurant. The baked vanilla custard with a caramelized sugar topping is not only a delicious dessert, but it’s really fun to make. You get to use a mini torch — it doesn’t get much more fun than that. (via Averie Cooks)

7. Coq au Vin: Take your traditional chicken dinner to the next level by cooking it in wine for a rich, hearty flavor. Fresh chicken, little pearl onions, button mushrooms, bacon and of course, red wine… what more could you possibly want from your dinner? (via Tasty Ever After)

8. Crepes: Walk along any street in Paris and you’ll come across carts selling freshly made crepes. Nutella and bananas is a classic choice, but you can fill them with anything you want. (via Heavenly Home Cooking)

9. French Onion Soup: Even though it’s hot outside, the meltingly tender onions, meaty stock and rich, nutty melted cheese flavor of this French soup is not to be passed up for more summery dishes. (via Williams-Sonoma)

10. Salade Niçoise: A staple all over France, this healthy, protein-rich salad is made with local Niçoise olives, oil-cured tuna and anchovies. Packed with color and healthy ingredients, it’s also a Paleo option if you’re trying to keep things healthy this summer. (via Cotter Crunch)

11. Tarte Flambée: Did you know the French have their own version of pizza? Perfect for a picnic or summer fête, this thin-crust pizza is made with crème fraîche, asparagus and prawns, and is the perfect size for personal pies. (via Strudel and Cream)

12. Kir Royale: Toast the French with a light, summery glass of bubbly. A Kir Royale begins with crème de cassis, a black currant liqueur with a berry flavor. Choose a crisp white wine or a bottle of Champagne and garnish this champagne cocktail with a twist of citrus or a few raspberries. (via Well Plated)

13. Roast Chicken: Garlic lovers, get ready to be amazed at this traditional Sunday dinner. Made with a few springs of thyme and 40 (yes, 40!) cloves of garlic, this dish is often served with roasted potatoes for a truly homey and comforting meal. (via Martha Stewart)

14. Cheese Plate: Set up gooey baked Camembert and slices of soft Brie along piles of fluffy French bread for dipping. A cheese spread is the perfect way to keep your guests entertained and amazed by your je ne sais quoi hostess charm while you finish cooking the rest of dinner. (via What’s Gaby Cooking)

What’s your favorite French recipe? Share your love of all things Français in the comments below!

15 Perfect Valentine's Day Finds From T.J. Maxx — & They're All Under $30

I thought my love for Target was unmatched...but T.J. Maxx is currently giving it a run for its money. Not only can I find some of the same products in there, but I usually get things on a bargain too. My usual $100+ purchases get slashed in half, whether I have a cart full of home decor or beauty finds — huge win for this girl!

Now that I'm back on a budget, I've been eyeing cute (and inexpensive) things that can aid in my upcoming Valentine's Day plans. Here's what I found at T.J. Maxx!

15 adorable T.J. Maxx Valentine's Day finds that won't mess up your 'slow spending' January goals!

T.J. Maxx Fashion Finds For The Stylish Girl On A Budget

T.J. Maxx

1. Dreamers by Debut Bow Applique Cardigan, $30

If you don't buy this bow cardigan for Valentine's Day, I will. I'm partially in my cute grandma era, so I've been looking for more to add to my closet. Aside from the red color, the pink bows add a 'coquette' vibe to it, which reminds me of one of the fashion trends that stylists say should be on your radar.

T.J. Maxx

2. Linea Donatella Satin Wrapper Robe, $14 (Was $17)

You'll feel like a sultry diva in this satin robe while getting ready for a hot date. It's a nice Barbie pink that has lace-trimmed sleeves and a cute tie to keep your goodies from spilling out.

T.J. Maxx

3. Idem Ditto Short Sleeve Mini Dress, $17

This short sleeve mini dress is perfect for grabbing dinner with your crush or friends because it doesn't give off a super sexy vibe. It's on the shorter side, but it's still an appropriate length for different settings!

T.J. Maxx

4. Le Lis Pff The Shoulder Crossover Bodysuit, $13

You don't have to wear a dress on love day if you don't want to! There's always this crossover bodysuit and a pair of nice jeans you can comfortably wear.

P.S. Add a pair of matching red flats or heels to really lean into the V-Day spirit.

T.J. Maxx

5. Madden Girl Sleeveless Bubble Dress, $17

Planning on going to a V-Day party? Wear this sleeveless bubble dress so that you have the freedom to move the way you want. I do recommend wearing a pair of bike shorts underneath so you don't accidentally flash anyone!

Bargain Beauty Finds For The Hair, Makeup, & Skincare-Obsessed Girl 

T.J. Maxx

6. Foxy Bae Spring Clip Curling Iron, $17

T.J. Maxx is starting off strong with aesthetic beauty products because this cute mauve curling iron looks like it belongs in a feminine bathroom. Do you or I need another styling tool in 2025? Probably not, but you won't feel bad about the $17 price tag if you do decide to add it to your counter.

T.J. Maxx

7. Cala 8pc Hair Setting Clips, $6

Psst — you need hair clips to help set the curls you created with your new pink curling iron! They're work on every hair type and don't leave weird creases in your hair like some can. They're also great to use when you're doing your skincare or makeup routine!

T.J. Maxx

8. Studio Dry Satin Pillowcase, $7

When nighttime falls, you need a satin pillowcase to lay your head on. It helps reduce friction and frizz that can be caused by cotton pillowcases, plus it keeps moisture in your hair. I always buy every few months so that I can rotate them.

T.J. Maxx

9. Cala 12pc Cosmetic Powder Puffs, $8

If you're a setting or pressed powder girl, you need flat puffs to lock them into your makeup. I've noticed that using one helps create a smoother base, making my makeup look airbrushed. Even if it's not the look you're going for, a puff helps minimize the mess of using loose powders down.

T.J. Maxx

10. Le Monde Gourmand 1oz Rose Riche Eau De Parfum, $13

I love fragrances as much as the next person, but sometimes I don't have $60+ to drop on a new perfume. If you're looking for something that smells good and won't interfere with your grocery store cash, this Eau de Parfum will make you smell like a million bucks.

It has notes of Madagascar vanilla, cedar, and bergamot for a feminine scent that'll make your Valentine's Day date want to cuddle all night.

Bargain Home Finds For The Girl Who Loves Dopamine Decor

T.J. Maxx

11. Hearts And Kisses Set Of 2 Heart Shaped Dessert Dishes, $10

After you've cooked you and your spouse's favorite meal, dish something sweet and savory in these heart shaped bowls. They're perfect for the love bird energy that's sure to be coursing through your veins!

T.J. Maxx

12. Enchante 5x7 Beveled Glass Picture Frame, $10

Place your favorite picture of you and your gal pals in this gold frame as a reminder of why you have the best crew ever. Make sure it's on full display during your Galentine's get-together so you can reminisce about what happened when the picture was taken!

T.J. Maxx

13. Cupcakes And Cashmere Striped Tufted Hearts Throw Blanket, $25

Curl up with this tufted hearts blanket and a good romance book any day of the week. It'll be a nice addition to your living room if you don't want to spend a ton of money changing your decor every holiday.

T.J. Maxx

14. Shabby Chic 4pk Ruffle Heart Placemats, $13

Bridgertonfans will love these ruffle heart placemats! You get four in a pack which is great if you're having an intimate dinner party with close friends. As far as I'm concerned, you never need a reason to eat good food with friends and laugh.

T.J. Maxx

15. Made In India Large 2 Tier Bling Heart Server, $17

You'll always have a reason to bake tasty desserts once you get your hands on this heart serving tray. It has two tiers for all manners of macaroons, cake pops, and cookies topped off with a cute blinged-out heart at the top.

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Whoa, This 'Stranger Things 5' Leak Might Confirm Steve Harrington's Fate

Stranger Things fans have one thing in common: we love Steve Harrington, played by Joe Keery. (Well, that and we'd give anything to bring Eddie Munson back). Despite the insane life or death situations the characters go through every single episode, the hit Netflix show is notorious for keeping all its main characters alive.

Even though that means we don't have to mourn our faves, some fans also think it lowers the stakes. Well, as we near Stranger Things 5, the final installment, fans have been terrified that we'll see Steve sacrifice himself for best friends Dustin (Gaten Matarrazzo) and Robin (Maya Hawke) or for Nancy (Natalia Dyer), who he definitely has unresolved feelings for. But there's one Stranger Things spoiler that could give us all the info we need.

This huge Stranger Things 5 spoiler could confirm Steve Harrington's fate.

The latest 'Stranger Things 5' leak appears to bring Steve Harrington into the '90s.

TikTok · stversse

We know that Stranger Things 5 will open in the fall of 1987 — and based on another recent leak, it's also bringing us into 1989. That means the epilogue will probably features tons of '90s vibes! And the latest Stranger Things spoiler shows off Steve Harrington in a VERY 1990s outfit. So this means he could make it out of the finale after all!!!

Steve fans have been worried for years that he'd die in a finale, whether it be because of the Russian torturers in season 3 or in Vecna's house in season 4. But this single photo has given fans a ton of hope. And they've already run with it. "steve survives oh we won," on TikTok user says in the comments of a slideshow. "90s Steve Harrington has just made me like Steve even more dear lord," another comment says.

The slideshow also shows off what appears to be a college-aged Dustin. "DUSTIN HAS EDDIE'S BAT TATTOOS," a third comment reads. Yep that's right — you get a glimpse of Dustin's new ink, which is totally a nod to Eddie, who sacrificed himself in season 4 to a bunch of demon bats (and I'm still not over it).

Dustin and Steve are my absolute favorite relationship in the show, and after some ups and downs in their brotherly relationship, I'm so excited that it seems like they'll both make it out. However, I'm not feeling so confident about Eleven's (Millie Bobby Brown) fate after all those rumors she'll sacrifice herself to close the Upside Down. We'll have to wait to see when Stranger Things 5 comes out later this year!

Are you a Steve Harrington fan? What do you think about this leak & the potential, spoilery implications? Let us know on Instagram!

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The Best Starbucks Food To Order, According To Employees & Customers

When it comes to Starbucks, it’s not always just about the coffee – they have a ton of food options that’ll have you hooked from the first bite. While some Starbucks food items are definitely worth skipping (looking at you, Kale & Mushroom Egg Bites), there are plenty of downright delicious picks.

Starbucks employees and die-hard fans just weighed in on their go-to food orders on Reddit, and their answers may surprise you!

Get ready to explore the best Starbucks food, straight from the experts who know it best.

Starbucks

1. Turkey, Provolone & Pesto on Ciabatta

This lunch sandwich came up several times amongst Starbucks employees and fans. It features sliced turkey breast, melted provolone cheese, dry-roasted red peppers, and basil pesto in between slices of ciabatta. One sandwich has 32 grams of protein, too!

Starbucks

2. Ham & Swiss Croissant

Next up, the classic Ham & Swiss Croissant! I always ate this for breakfast when I worked at Starbucks, and can confirm it's very worth ordering.

One Reddit user admitted that they "eat wayyyyyy more" of these than they "care to admit." They said that "They’re just so damn good” – very true!

Starbucks

3. Egg White Bagels (Custom)

One Starbucks employee said that they use their mark-outs (1 free food item + 1 free bev every shift!) to make their very own concoction: egg white egg bites on an everything bagelwith avocado spread. Sounds delish.

Starbucks

4. Potato, Cheddar & Chive Bakes

These baked bites were mentioned a whopping 10 times on the Reddit thread.

“Grew up hating eggs, never never [ate] them," one person wrote. "But I will tear up those chive bites with some sriracha, salt, and pepper."

"Hear me on this one," another user commented. "Always double toast your egg bites and toast your panini sandwiches from the case open faced. Always.” Now I've gotta try it!

Tip: to get any heated food item at Starbucks double-toasted, simply say 'extra crispy' or 'double-toasted' when you go to order.

Starbucks

5. Spicy Falafel Pocket

This Starbucks food menu newcomer seems to be pretty popular already. It came out in January 2025 with their winter menu launch, which also includes the never-seen-at-Starbucks drink, the Cortado.

“The falafel wrap just came out, but I'm in love,” one user said.

“Me too!" another person agreed. "Never been huge into falafel – it always tasted dry to me. This one is just right. Also the new dipping sauce is a welcome add on.”

"The fact that it's vegan too makes it perfect,” one more Redditor gushed.

The Spicy Falafel Pocket includes smashed falafel, creamy hummus, roasted red bell peppers, pickled onions, and a spicy herb sauce packed into a lavash flatbread.

Starbucks

6. Iced Lemon Loaf

“That damn lemon loaf,” one user quickly commented. And they're so right for that.

The Iced Lemon Loaf would be on weekly rotation when I worked as a Starbucks barista. It's entirely too sugary, but perhaps that's what had me hooked. And that thick layer of icing, too!

Starbucks

7. Cinnamon Coffee Cake

“I love their blueberry scones and their coffee cakes," one Redditor wrote. "They pair nicely with a large iced blonde americano 😋.” Sounds yum!

In fact, Starbucks has a ton of great bakery items, but this coffee cake typically comes out on top for being super moist, plus its crumbly topping is downright addicting.

Starbucks

8. Spinach, Feta & Egg White Wrap

The SFW is a total classic when it comes to the best Starbucks food items. It's 100% vegetarian and is made with fluffy cage-free egg whites, spinach, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomato cream cheese. It makes a nourishing savory bite for breakfast or lunch.

Starbucks

9. Egg, Pesto & Mozzarella Sandwich

I fear this breakfast sandwich is my new addiction whenever I go to Starbucks. The egg is always fluffy and flavorful, the cheese always melty, and I think the pesto adds a nice tang to it all. Plus, it has 21 grams of protein, so I don't have to worry about feeling hungry after I chow down on it.

“I'm a fan,” one Redditor said.

“Garbage for my cholesterol but 🤌🏻,” another person noted.

"I've been putting chili oil on it as well and its soooo good,” one more user said. Spicy!

Starbucks

10. Cheese Danish

The Starbucks Cheese Danish is very good, but one employee's minor edit to it sounds ahh-mazing: they add a sprinkling of the Cinnamon Dolce topping (AKA cinnamon and sugar) on top to up the sweetness!

I wouldn't necessarily recommend ordering your danish like this at the counter to avoid eye rolls from your baristas, but take it home and add your own cinnamon sugar, and boom – you've got yourself a truly elevated Starbucks snack!

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