Kimberly Snyder’s Chickpea Stew With Pesto Helps You Get Your Veg When It’s Way Too Cold

Cookbookmarked! is our new series where we review the latest cookbooks from the foodie influencers you follow. Check back often to find out which new releases are worth your hard-earned cash and the recipes you should try first from each.

Eating well, developing healthy habits, and stressing less are the usual suspects for New Year resolutions. If you’re keeping them going strong, *kudos,* but if you’ve had a few slip-ups, celebrity nutritionist Kimberly Snyder is here to tell you it’s okay. Synder’s new cookbook title, Recipes for Your Perfectly Imperfect Life: Everyday Ways to Live and Eat for Health, Healing, and Happiness ($20) will encourage you to embrace life’s messiness.

Rather than hit you hard with an intense detox plan, Synder, who has worked with Drew Barrymore, Kerry Washington, and Reese Witherspoon, provides practical tips for prepping and cooking nourishing meals at home. Out of 100 plant-based recipes for smoothies, soups, snacks, and entrées, it was impossible to choose one, so we asked Snyder for her recommendation. She’s a huge fan of the chickpea stew with pesto, which she says may help you feel as good as her signature Glowing Green Smoothie.

chickpea stew with pistachio pesto

(Serves 2)

Have you ever had pesto in a stew? It’s delicious! Pesto, made of freshly ground basil and nuts, is a delicious way to nourish yourself with minerals, antioxidants, and protein. The detoxifying aspect of this recipe comes from omitting the cheese, extra oil, and even the garlic, which can be a bit agitating. You will start feeling so amazing as you go along your continuing detox journey toward lightness that you won’t even miss those ingredients in this dish. Chickpea Stew is so hearty it makes a fantastic main course.

Ingredients:

Pistachio Pesto:

  • 1 cup raw unsalted pistachios
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Chickpea Stew:

  • 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
  • 1/2 cup sliced carrots
  • 1/2 cup sliced celery
  • 4 cups (32 ounces) vegetable broth
  • 2 cups cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • sea salt to taste
  • 1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh parsley

1. Make the pistachio pesto: Combine all the pesto ingredients in a food processor or mortar and pestle. Process or mash together, retaining some chunky texture.

2. Make the stew: Combine the onion, carrots, celery, and vegetable broth in a large pot and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to a simmer, and cook for about 15 minutes, until the veggies are soft. Add the cooked chickpeas and 1/2 cup of the pesto, and simmer over low heat for an additional 10 minutes. Season with salt. (Save the rest of the pesto to use as a veggie dip; it will keep for up to 5 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container. We just had to make a larger amount to ensure easier blending.)

3. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with the chopped parsley. Serve with brown rice (preferably soaked and sprouted).

Find more wholesome recipes by following Brit + Co on Pinterest.

(Recipe and photos via Recipes for Your Perfectly Imperfect Life: Everyday Ways to Live and Eat for Health, Healing, and Happiness Paperback by Kimberly Snyder C.N.)

You're always on a mission to have the best lunch, no matter what day of the week it is. Fancy sandwich recipes can keep you going for a while, but sometimes you want something completely different... and a little more satisfying. If you find yourself getting bored of the same old lunches day in and day out, these high-protein wraps will spice things up without making you feel totally bleh!

These high-protein wraps are delicious, easy to prep, and so protein-packed. That's a win-win-win in our book! Keep reading for a roundup of some of the best healthy mid-day meals that you can make for a quick lunch or dinner. Skipped breakfast? We've also got a few egg-centric wraps to get you through the day.

Have fun getting creative with these easy high-protein wraps and recipes!

High-Protein Wraps From Brit + Co

Brittany Griffin

Keto Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Whether you're chowing down on these wraps for a snack or a full meal, they'll hold a deliciously bright flavor that's super refreshing for a food break. (via Anna Monette Roberts forBrit + Co)

Chef Bai

Vegan Lettuce Wraps

Originally developed by Chef Bai, these vegan lettuce wraps have all the ingredients you need to feel your best. (via Chef Bai for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Bulked up with plenty of flavorful chicken, these lettuce wraps are far from those lousy, low-protein recipes. (via Brit + Co)

High-Protein Wraps With Chicken

Half Baked Harvest

Greek Goddess Chicken Wraps

Roasted chicken, avocado, olives, cucumbers make this wrap an easy and delicious combo. Pair it with pita and go lighter on the carbs with lettuce. Either way, you'll find these will be your go-to lunch or dinner wrap year-round! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Half Baked Harvest

Buffalo Chicken + Avocado BLT Wrap

The secret ingredient here? Potato chips for extra crunch. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Cilantro Parsley

Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Your classic chicken teriyaki in a healthy lettuce wrap will keep your energy up, post-lunch. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Whole Foods

Coconut Curry Wrap

These high-protein wraps host a flavorful kick of spices, perfectly paired with a little apple crunch. (via Whole Foods)

Spices in my DNA

Mexican Chicken Quinoa Salad Wraps

Quinoa + beans + chicken = the high-protein trifecta. You won't find yourself reaching for a snack a few hours later, because this Mexican wrap will fill you up – and then some. (viaSpices in my DNA)

Cooking Classy

Greek Grilled Chicken + Hummus Wrap

This wrap is everything you love from your go-to Greek lunch spot. Did someone say CAVA dupe?! You have tons of veggies and olives, tangy feta cheese and chicken and hummus (both of which are full of protein) in these high-protein wraps. (via Cooking Classy)

The Cozy Apron

Grilled Lemon Chicken Flatbread Wraps with Spicy Garlic Sauce

Take your leftover grilled chicken from dinner the night before, squeeze a lil' lemon on it, and whip up this wrap for lunch. Just add the homemade spicy garlic sauce to these high-protein wraps, and you have a whole new meal in your hands! (via The Cozy Apron)

Tastes Better From Scratch

Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps

Take your lunch outside and enjoy it in the sunshine for once! When you get back to work after lunch, you’ll be reenergized from your Hawaiian-influences high-protein wraps, and your 30 minutes of vitamin D. (via Tastes Better From Scratch)

Tara’s Multicultural Table

Grilled Chicken Naan Wraps with Roasted Red Pepper Tahini Sauce

Playing around with different high-protein wraps is a fun way to switch up your mealtime routine. This grilled chicken wrap is housed in Indian naan bread and drizzled with a nutty red pepper tahini sauce. Dreamy! (via Tara’s Multicultural Table)

Tried and Tasty

Chicken, Spinach & Cream Cheese Tortilla Wrap

You’ll feel like Popeye when you eat this chicken spinach wrap for lunch! Not only are these high-protein wraps filled with fresh spinach, they're also all wrapped up in a yummy spinach tortilla. (via Tried and Tasty)

Taste & Tell

California Chicken Club Wrap

Turn your favorite sandwich order into a portable feast! These chicken club high-protein wraps have a double-dose of protein from the bacon and chicken, and will keep you full until your work day is over. The recipe even incorporates fruit for a varied taste and texture. (viaTaste & Tell)

Feel Good Foodie

Grilled Chicken + Broccoli Wraps

Tender chicken and broccoli are seasoned to perfection with a cheesy filling in these high-protein wraps. This recipe is the best mix of delicious and healthy! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Skinny Ms.

Chicken Caesar Wrap

You’re going to love this Caesar salad-inspired wrap. It has strips of tender chicken breast and a zesty homemade Caesar dressing made with protein-rich Greek yogurt. Get ready to make your salad-loving coworkers jeal-ous! (via Skinny Ms.)

The Real Food Dietitians

BLT Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps

Upgrade your classic BLT with tender chicken chunks, creamy avocado oil mayo, red onion, fresh chives and avocado for a healthy and hearty lunch or dinner. Yum! (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Salt & Lavender

Waldorf Chicken Salad Wrap

Apples and walnuts gives these high-protein wraps a delightful crunch. The protein-packed chicken salad included can be made in a big batch at the start of the week for an easy and healthy meal prep option! (via Salt & Lavender)

The Girl on Bloor

Kale Chicken Caesar Wrap

This Chicken Caesar wrap is a lot healthier since it uses a lighter homemade Caesar dressing, chicken breast, multigrain wraps and kale (which is full of good nutrients). (via The Girl on Bloor)

High-Protein Wraps With Egg

Feel Good Foodie

Mediterranean Egg Wrap

This versatile wrap is perfect for breakfast or lunch, and will keep you satisfied through whatever the work day brings. Dress it up with veggies and cheese for added taste. (via Feel Good Foodie)

A Spicy Perspective

Keto Breakfast Egg Wrap

This low-carb wrap is stuffed with chicken sausage, avocado, and jalapeño cream cheese for a heavenly breakfast bite. (via A Spicy Perspective)

A Spicy Perspective

Keto Egg Roll Wrap

These warm wraps are inspired by your favorite egg rolls – yum! They're keto-friendly and especially high in protein, thanks to the eggs and meat. You'll want to eat one every single day. (via A Spicy Perspective)

High-Protein Wraps With Beef + Pork

Forks & Foliage

Beef + Lamb Shawarma Wrap

This Lebanese street food makes for a perfect lemony, garlicky savory lunch. Marinated beef and Greek yogurt give this recipe a boost of protein! (viaForks & Foliage)

Averie Cooks

Spicy Pork Lettuce Wraps

These spicy pork wraps are so easy to make and ready in less than 20 minutes. Here's your high protein, gluten-free dinner to add to your dinner rotation! (via Averie Cooks)

The Endless Meal

Carnitas Tacos Lettuce Wrap

Crunchy, juicy, and delicious taco flavors swarm every bite of this lettuce wrap. Choose to wrap in lettuce or a tortilla, depending on your mood. (via The Endless Meal)

The Endless Meal

Steak Lettuce Wrap

Prefer to keep it light with lettuce wraps? You'll never miss a thing with this savory, steak-centered recipe. (via The Endless Meal)

Mission Foods

Cuban Press

Panini-fy this wrap for a warm protein-packed lunch! (via Mission Foods)

Maebells

Loaded Philly Cheese Steak Wraps

A good Philly cheese steak can be hard to find. Skip the search and make your own version into a portable wrap that’s totally desk-appropriate. (via Maebells)

Salt & Lavender

Healthy Ham Wrap

Customize these high-protein wraps with your favorite veggies (or just any ingredients you have lying around), and you can have a healthy lunch on the table in just 10 minutes! (via Salt & Lavender)

Emily Bites

Black + Blue Steak Wraps

It doesn’t get much more protein-filled than a steak wrap! Your work buddies will be begging for a taste of this steakhouse-style lunch at the office. (via Emily Bites)

High-Protein Wraps With Seafood

Kathryn's Kitchen

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Lettuce Wraps

These fresh and tasty Shrimp Lettuce Wraps are full of flavor with lime, garlic and cilantro, plus a little guac and salsa! (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

The Healthy Foodie

Tuna Wrap

Walnuts, raisins, and capers give these tuna high-protein wraps a sweet n' salty vibe. If you don’t like mayo, try using Greek yogurt as your tuna salad binder instead, for added protein. (via The Healthy Foodie)

Goodie Godmother

Spicy Tuna Wraps

Give your usual tuna salad a little zest by adding a squirt of Sriracha to the mix! Spread it on a whole wheat tortilla with some fresh veggies and you’re good to go! You could also get fancy with your high-protein wraps and use rice paper rolls with this recipe. (via Goodie Godmother)

Whole And Heavenly Oven

Hot Honey Salmon Wrap

Here's a hot tip: add hot honey-glazed salmon, avocado, and a creamy scallion slaw for an instant lunch upgrade! (via Whole And Heavenly Oven)

High-Protein Wraps With Veggies

Veggie Primer

Easy Black Bean Wrap

Making sure you have enough protein is important, especially if you're a vegan eater. Black beans are a great plant-based source of protein, and go perfectly in this lunchtime wrap. (via Veggie Primer)

Food Faith Fitness

Vegan Grilled Sweet Potato + Mint-Tahini Cauliflower Rice Wraps

These vegan wraps are a light and healthy lunch option that won’t put you in a total food coma for the afternoon. Prep them on Sunday, and you can have a healthy lunch every day of the week. (viaFood Faith Fitness)

Live Eat Learn

Portobello Mushroom Gyro

Seasoned with Mediterranean spices, these high-protein wraps are satisfyingly drizzled with a creamy tzatziki saucethat brings the protein. (via Live Eat Learn)

Two Spoons

Green Goddess Wrap

Mashed avocado, arugula, purple cabbage, edamame, and zucchini all wrapped in a warm wholegrain wrap will treat your body so good. (viaTwo Spoons)

Foodiecrush

Hummus Veggie Wrap

Homemade spicy hummus serves as the main protein source for this vegetarian lunch wrap. It’s packed with cucumbers, tomatoes, sprouts, spinach and avocado. Even though there’s no meat, you’ll be full and focused for the rest of the work day! (via Foodiecrush)

Culinary Hill

Ultimate Veggie Wrap

With herbed cream cheese and Havarti cheese, this fresh veggie wrap is anything but boring. (via Culinary Hill)

Cilantro & Parsley

Vegan Tofu Wrap

Vegan Caesar dressing, flour tortillas, baked tofu, and pico de gallo make for some easy and flavorful high-protein wraps in you're eating plant-based. (via Cilantro & Parsley)

Veggie Primer

Vegan BBQ Tempeh Coleslaw Wrap

Even meat-eaters will be drawn to this easy, healthy, and plant-based wrap recipe. The coleslaw is wrapped up inside these high-protein wraps, so all you need is a side of sweet potato wedges to complete your meal. (via Veggie Primer)

Live Eat Learn

Chard Sandwich Wrap

Filled with a chickpea tuna salad, these high-protein wraps provide a crunchier and more filling alternative to butter lettuce. (via Live Eat Learn)

Rachel Mansfield

Spinach And Feta Wrap

Inspired by the Starbucks spinach feta wrap, this version is packed with protein and veggies for the ultimate grab-and-go breakfast or lunch. (via Rachel Mansfield)

Bonus Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Wrap ​from Half Baked Harvest!

Half Baked Harvest

As a bonus, we're throwing in one of our favorite easy and healthy wrap recipes that pushed all the right buttons on flavor. You'll combine shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, herbs, lettuce, and a little cheddar cheese, fold them up in wraps, then pan-fry until warm and crispy!

These easy wraps, made by Half Baked Harvest, come together in mere minutes. They're crunchy on the outside, cheesy on the inside. Serve with the deliciously creamy jalapeño lime ranch and additional buffalo sauce! These healthy wraps are great for both lunch and dinner, but equally fun for a game night, too!

First things first: start with the buffalo chicken. Shred up a couple of chicken breasts and toss them with homemade buffalo sauce, Greek yogurt (for creaminess), and fresh herbs. Most buffalo chicken fillings are made with cream cheese, but you can swap in yogurt for a healthier choice.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
  • 1/4 cup plain greek yogurt
  • 1/3 cup buffalo sauce
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
  • 1 tablespoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • 4 large (burrito size) whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded romaine lettuce
  • 1-2 jalapeños or poblano peppers, chopped
  • 3 green onions, chopped
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
  • Olive oil, for cooking

Ingredients for jalapeño ranch:

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños chopped + 2 tablespoons brine
  • Juice from 1 lime
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

To assemble:

Make a cut down the center of your tortillas, then add the chicken to one corner, and the greens to another corner, and finally the cheese to another. Fold it all up, then pan-fry. So you've got...

  • One-quarter of buffalo chicken
  • Another quarter wrap of greens n' things
  • A quarter full of ranch
  • And finally a quarter full of cheese
  • Fold it all up into one triangle

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine the chicken, yogurt, buffalo sauce, chives, parsley, and dill.
  2. To make the ranch. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
  3. To assemble, cut down from the center of the tortilla to the edge. Spread the chicken in the bottom left corner, then add a handful of the lettuce, jalapeño/poblano pepper, and green onions on the top left corner. Spread the ranch on the top right corner, and the cheese on the bottom right corner. Fold the buffalo chicken over the lettuce. Then, working clock-wise, folding that quarter over the ranch. And finally, fold that quarter over the cheese.
  4. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet, add 1 wrap and cook 2-3 minutes per side until crisp and golden brown. Serve warm with extra buffalo sauce, ranch, and lettuce.

Find more quick easy lunch recipes and more on our Food section, get inspired on Pinterest, or join our newsletter for more snackable recipes and tips!

This post has been updated.

We're only one week away from The White Lotus finale — and finally answering the biggest question of all: who dies in The White Lotus season 3? Here's your official reminder that Mike White never passes up the opportunity for a death to be accidental & ironic (not to mention the character's fault), meaning we probably don't need to be looking for a murderer. And there's one White Lotus theory that suggests the killer's been in front of our faces the whole time: the poisonous pong pong fruit.

Here's a truly genius White Lotus theory about the season 3 finale, Saxon, and that poisonous fruit.

'The White Lotus' season 3 death will probably be another egomaniacal accident.

Theories are running rampant around who dies in The White Lotus season 3 finale — and who's responsible. But @popcultureari points out that, "In previous seasons we've seen how Mike White builds a ridiculous amount of tension between all the characters only to have the loose ends tied up with some ironic twist. And the main deaths aren't about killers lurking in the shadows, they're about people tripping over their own egos."

Remember when Tanya tripped in her heels, hit her head, and then drowned? "So in season 3, the body won't be from some shocking murder, it'll be from another self sabotage masterpiece," she continues. And the leading suspect? That poisonous fruit introduced in the first episode.

And it could cost the Ratliff family Saxon, Harper, and Lochlan.

More than one fan is wondering whether Jason Isaac's Timothy Ratliff will make a smoothie with the poisonous fruit to end his own life (since he doesn't have the gun anymore), and someone else will accidentally drink it. "There's a reason why they specifically mentioned the poison fruit so early on," one user says in the comments, while another points out how the camera always zooms into the blender.

But the most devastating take on this theory to me? That "I also do believe there will be 3 deaths because Chelsea keeps bringing up that bad things happen in 3s," another comment says. "3 siblings, 3 Russians, 3 friends."

More comments applaud @popcultureari for coming up with "such a good theory," but if Timothy makes the smoothie in The White Lotus season 3 finale, and then all three kids somehow end up dead, y'all will need to check on me!

What do you think about this White Lotus theory? Are you excited for the finale? Read up on The Most "Batsh—t" Yellowjackets Theory: "Everything Came Together" before the finale airs.

Going meatless on Mondays doesn’t mean you have to settle for the same boring salads or bland pastas. With the right recipes, you can enjoy hearty, flavor-packed meals that are just as satisfying as your favorite meat-based options! Whether you’re craving something cheesy, crispy, or full of bold spices, these meatless Monday recipes will keep you coming back for more.

Scroll on for 15 easy Meatless Monday recipes that’ll keep you full and satisfied!

Brittany Griffin

Big-Batch Pressure-Cooked Vegan Chili

This vegan chili is super hearty since it's loaded up with quinoa and three kinds of beans. Don't fret about the flavor, either – it gets its semi-spicy effect from chilis, chili powder, onion, cayenne, and salt! (via Anna Monette Roberts for Brit + Co)

Sarah Anderson

Carrot Hot Dogs

We bet you've never had hot dogs like this before! Crafted using carrots that are sautéed in maple syrup, coconut aminos, and water then briefly grilled for texture, they turn tender and oh-so flavorful. From there, you can top 'em with just about anything you want! (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Sarah Bond

10-Minute Chickpea Salad

This quick chickpea salad would make a great lunch for your meatless Mondays. It requires zero cooking, yet still fills you up with protein from the chickpeas and zesty Greek yogurt dressing! (via Sarah Bond of Live Eat Learn for Brit + Co)

The Edgy Veg

Tater Totchos

You've heard of nachos, but what about totchos?! These loaded tater tots are both vegan- and vegetarian-friendly, but thankfully, they've still got plenty of cheese – vegan cheese, that is! (via The Edgy Veg)

Feel Good Foodie

Vegetarian Burrito Bowl

This veggie burrito bowl is basically the epitome of 'we have Chipotle at home.' It only takes 40 minutes to make, and you're sure to have plenty of leftovers if you're eating for one! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Vikalinka

Creamy Tomato & Spinach Tortelloni

For a cozy dinner at home, this creamy tortelloni will cure every single one of your cravings. It's veggie-packed, with tons of tomato and spinach to boot. (via Vikalinka)

Completely Delicious

Roasted Brussel Sprout & Gruyere Quiche

You can never go wrong with a simple quiche, especially when you toss in some seasonal veggies. This recipe works great for breakfast and dinner alike! (via Completely Delicious)

Kathryn's Kitchen

Jalapeño Popper Pizza

With the spicy notes of jalapeño poppers, this pizza also supplies lots of cheese for you to indulge in on meatless Mondays. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Munching with Mariyah

Vegan Sheet-Pan Fajitas

These vegan fajitas are perfect for your meatless Monday plans because they’re loaded with bold, smoky flavors, packed with nutritious veggies, and they come together effortlessly on one pan for easy clean-up! (via Munching with Mariyah)

The Real Food Dietitians

Greek Portobello Mushroom Vegetarian Gyros

Rivaling your favorite Greek takeout spot, these veggie-packed gyros still come complete with all the best toppings, including a super fresh tzatziki sauce! (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Averie Cooks

Chickpea & Kale Thai Coconut Curry

Hearty, packed with plant-based protein, and bursting with rich, comforting flavors, this Thai-inspired curry is ideal for chilly nights. Plus, it's made all in a one-pot! (via Averie Cooks)

The Girl on Bloor

Veggie Tofu Scramble

For breakfast, you've gotta give tofu scramble a try. It's just as protein-rich as scrambled eggs, but you can also load it up with veggies like red pepper, red onion, spinach, and mushrooms for added nutrients! (via The Girl on Bloor)

Takes Two Eggs

Gochujang Brussels Sprouts

This vegetarian side dish would work wonderfully with an Asian-inspired meal, whether it's a meatless Monday or not. Spicy, umami, and salty flavors take the forefront to make every bite so heavenly. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Vanilla and Bean

Cheesy Vegetarian Tofu Enchiladas

These baked-to-perfection tofu enchiladas will keep your Tex Mex cravings at bay with tons of spicy, smoky flavors and plenty of plant-based protein. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Cozy Cravings

Zucchini Lemon Risotto

This lemon risotto with zucchini is a dream. It's light yet creamy, plus, it's fairly simple to make if you're in a pinch for lunch or dinner. (via Cozy Cravings)

Subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious vegetarian recipes!

I love hosting and making my guests feel at home. And living in a tourist destination (Sonoma wine country) means I get a lot of them — especially as the weather warms up. Over time, I’ve learned that creating a warm, welcoming space doesn’t have to mean stress or all-day prep. Guests only seem to notice a few key things, not whether you color-coded your bookshelf or spring cleaned your closets. Whether it’s a casual dinner party or an overnight stay, these simple steps make a big difference before guests arrive.

Here are six things you should always do before guests arrive.

Askar Abayev

Do a Quick Clutter Sweep

You don’t need to deep-clean — just focus on visible clutter. Clear off countertops, coffee tables, and entryways. Short on time? Just toss items into a basket and tuck them away in a closet.

Anna Shvets

Light a Candle Or Diffuse A Favorite Scent

Set the mood with a seasonal or favorite scent, like vanilla, amber, or something citrusy. It instantly makes your space feel warm and inviting. I like to put one in the guest bathroom too for a little surprise.

Have a little time? You can also simmer citrus and your favorite herbs on the stove.

You’ll Need:

  • Citrus slices like oranges, lemons, or limes
  • A few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
  • 1–2 cinnamon sticks or whole cloves
  • A splash of vanilla extract

Steps:

  1. Slice your citrus thinly. Try a mix of orange and lemon for a bright, balanced scent.
  2. Fill a pot with water, about ¾ full.
  3. Add your ingredients to the water.
  4. Bring to a simmer over low heat. As the mixture warms, the scent will start to fill your space. (Keep an eye on the water level, and add more as it evaporates.)

Kaboompics.com

Prep the Bathroom

Nothing makes guests feel more "ick" than a dirty or messy bathroom so prioritize this space. Wipe down the sink and toilet, put out a fresh hand towel, and make sure there’s enough toilet paper.

taylor hernandez on Unsplash

Set the Mood with Music or Lighting

I make sure to switch off all the overheads (not a fan of this harsh lighting) and turn on table lamps for a cozy vibe. Then cue up a Spotify "dinner party" playlist that matches the energy — something mellow and upbeat is usually a safe bet.

Photo by Tatiana Syrikova

Add Thoughtful Touches

A long-distance friend of mine would always leave me a basket of toiletries for my overnight stays and it's something I always remember fondly. On their bedside table, you can leave them a pitcher of water, their favorite snacks, flowers or herbs, and/or a book or magazine. Little details make people feel instantly loved.

Shutterstock

Take the Garbage Out

Nothing ruins the party vibe like a smelly garbage can. Empty it before anyone arrives, and consider adding a fresh liner with a drop of essential oil or baking soda to keep things smelling fresh and clean.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more house cleaning tips!

The only thing keeping me from being upset about A Court of Thorns and Roses TV show being canceled is how well Hulu handled it's newest thriller, Paradise. Created by screenwriter Dan Fogelman (This Is Us) and starring Sterling K. Brown, it's a murder mystery with dystopian undertones that explores what could happen if states become uninhabitable.

Besides feeling relevant to our current timeline, Paradise has a soundtrack that rivals Strangers Things and leaves viewers wanting more. Fortunately, Hulu got the memo and renewed it for Season 2 — thank goodness!

Here's everything to know about Paradise season 2!

Has 'Paradise' Season 2 began filming? 

I'm pinching myself because Paradise Season 2 has started filming! Dan Fogelman shared the amazing news on his Instagram a few days ago and his comments are buzzing with excitement! "We’re baaaaaaaack. #Paradise#S2," he wrote which means we could see Sterling K. Brown and Julianne Nichols on our screens sooner than anticipated.

This comes after an update Fogelman shared with a hopeful fan on X. In response to a fear viewers would have to wait a long time to see more action from our new favorite characters, Fogelman put all fears aside. "we start shooting in just a few weeks. It won’t be 2 years I promise! #Paradise," he said.

When does 'Paradise' season 2 premiere?

Disney/Brian Roedel

Filming just started for Paradise Season 2, so a premiere date for it hasn't been shared yet. But at the rate Fogelman's going, we could possibly see the thriller series on Hulu towards the end of the year or at the beginning of 2026!

For now, fans can rewatch Season 1 on Hulu or when it appears on ABC April 7 at 10:00 p.m. (via The Hollywood Reporter).

What is 'Paradise' about?

Disney/Brian Roedel

Paradise begins in an idyllic community where homes are picturesque, streets are clean, and everyone lives in perfect harmony. However, it doesn't take long for the peace to be disturbed when the President is discovered murdered by his trusted Secret Service agent Xavier Collins.

Before long, he begins questioning the world he and his children live in while also searching for clues about his missing wife.

Who's in the 'Paradise' cast?

Disney/Brian Roedel

Paradise Season 1 has a stacked cast! Besides Sterling K. Brown, there's other familiar faces who help with the show's equilibrium.

  • Sterling K. Brown as Xavier Collins
  • James Marsden as President Cal Bradford
  • Julianne Nicholson as "Sinatra"
  • Krys Marshall as Robinson
  • Sarah Shahi as Dr. Gabriela Torabi
  • Jon Beavers as Billy Pace
  • Nicole Brydon Bloom as Jane Driscoll
  • Aliyah Mastin as Presley Collins
  • Percy Daggs IV as James Collins
  • Charlie Evans as Jeremy Bradford
  • Richard Robichaux as Carl

What's happened in 'Paradise' so far?

Disney/Brian Roedel

Wow, where do I begin?!

After it was revealed that the community he and everyone else lives in has been artificially created due to a disaster, the brief moments of unease Collins shows begins making sense. It's clear he and President Cal ended on bad terms before his death, but it doesn't seem like he was responsible for murdering the man he was sworn to protect.

What's odd is that Sinatra, the mastermind behind the beautiful community they live in, has been playing puppet master. She ordered the deaths of scientists sent to the surface to test the air quality AND she made sure Agent Billy was blindsided by his love interest's manipulation. Upsettingly, his murderer is none other than seemingly docile and clueless Agent Jane.

Viewers were also introduced to President Cal's father and were able to see how much he never wanted to be the face of the country. Though his father appears to have dementia, it's clear he feels guilty about something and may have seen who killed his son.

When did the season finale of 'Paradise' season air?

Disney/Brian Roedel

Paradise left off on several cliffhangers on Hulu March 4!

How many seasons of 'Paradise' will there be?

Disney/Brian Roedel

Dan Fogelman already knows what he wants to do with Paradise! He said, "I have a plan for three seasons of the show. Without giving away too much, each season of the show is a slightly different show, within the same show with the same characters," (via The Hollywood Reporter).

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This post has been updated.