This Weird Study Will Reveal If You and Your BFF Are True Friends

Ashley Macey
Apr 26, 2016

Figuring out how to make friends as an adult can be a difficult task — so much so that they’ve even invented a Tinder-like app to find female friends. Sure, we can meet a cool spotting partner at our gym or a study buddy during our night classes — but how exactly are we supposed to know whether that single-avenue relationship can blossom into a fully fledged I-can-text-you-at-two-in-the-morning-and-you-won’t-be-mad-at-mefriendship? Well, according to a new study out of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), there’s one simple way to determine if you and your new friend are actually close — and it is way easier than you may think.

UCLA professors Greg Bryant and Daniel Fessler decided to use the power of laughter to test whether or not random participants could determine if a pair were complete strangers or good friends. Using a variety of one-second audio clips of people laughing, Bryant and Fessler asked 966 listeners from 24 different cultures — from Austria to rural Peru — to determine whether the laughing pairs were friends or strangers. The study, which was published in April 2016 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, yielded some incredible results. On average, the participants were correct 61 percent of the time, which is much higher than the statistical average. However, what’s really interesting is the participants’ ability to identify female-only friendships. On average, participants in every single culture were able to identify whether the women laughing were friends or strangers with a staggering 80 percent accuracy.

But why exactly can we tell whether people laughing are friends or not? Well, according to Bryant, it is actually quite simple. In an interview with Live Science, Bryant says that when people laugh among friends, their laugh tends to sound more excited: “It is often faster and has more irregularities in frequency and loudness that gives it an aroused sound.” So, instead of the quiet mousey laugh that you break out when your boss tells you a long-winded story about her four-day weekend, laughing with your friends often means completely letting go of any insecurities and belly-laughing to your heart’s content. So if you really want to know whether you and your newest acquaintance are actually friends, science says it’s time to start cracking some jokes — if they roll over with laughter, you just might have found the newest member of your #squad.

Can you tell if people are friends just by the way they laugh? Let us know on Twitter by mentioning @BritandCo.

(Photos via Getty)

7 Ways to Stay Positive Even During the Toughest Times

A lot of people pride themselves on being optimists, and TBH, if you canstay positivewith everything that’s going on in the world today, major props to you. For most people who consider themselves the glass-half-full type, it’s a lifestyle. They try to look at everything that comes their way, from relationship troubles to work mistakes, with a positive spin. But a recent study investigated whether optimists still stay more positive than pessimists when things get really tough, and what they found was pretty surprising.


Scientists analyzed nine previous studies to see how both optimists and pessimists brace themselves for receiving important and potentially negative news, like medical test results. They found that even though people who identify as optimists tend to be more positive in general, they too start assuming the worst as the moment of truth about something important nears. It’s easy to understand this instinct, since some people tend to believe that preparing yourself for the worst will ultimately make it less shocking if it happens. On the other hand, some people would rather stay positive whenever possible, since it’s easier to fight off stress and anxiety when you have a sunny outlook. Here, we’ve gathered some of our favorite expert tips for staying optimistic when you’re dealing with some super hard stuff.

How To Stay Positive

1.Learn to reframe negativity. “The trick to positivity is not avoiding pessimism,” says Elaine Taylor-Klaus, a certified professional coach. “It’s really about how quickly you can redirect your focus from negative to positive. Critical thinkers are going to see problems to be solved, but the ability to ‘reframe’ the conversation is the really important skill for people to practice.” She recommends getting into the habit of acknowledging negative thoughts and then asking, “What else is possible here?” This can guide you back into a positive mindset more quickly.

“Bottom line: Negativity happens,” she says. “Positivity is a choice, and the quicker you learn to reframe, the more time you’ll spend in a positive space. Then, over time, the more likely you are to turn directly to a positive interpretation of events.”

2. Ask yourself if this will matter a month or year from now. Sometimes things seem crucial AF in the moment, but might be inconsequential even just a few days after that. Just think about high school drama. “When we can leave the past behind and even know in the present moment that this feeling won’t last, it can help to remind us that time heals and life goes on,” explainsSharon Stokes, life-fulfillment coach.

3.Give back. Volunteering is an amazing way to change your entire perspective, saysLyssa Menard, a clinical health psychologist, founder of Strategies for Changeand assistant professor at Northwestern University’s medical school. “There are many organizations that don’t require an ongoing commitment, so sign up for an event that’s meaningful. Research shows that giving to others is one of the quickest routes toward happiness. While happiness and positivity are different, they’re correlated,” Lyssa says.

4. Role play to be more objective. Playing a little mind trick on yourself can work wonders, says Lori Scherwin of Strategize That, a career coaching service. “We’re often better at helping others than ourselves,” she notes. “Make the situation more objective and less personal to you. For example, consider if it were anyone else in the situation (like your best friend, partner or colleague). How would you see the same ‘problem?’ What advice might you give them to get out of it?” she asks. This will help you shift from being super hard on yourself to more objective, and most likely, more positive.

5. Make changes to things that are within your control. Spending time worrying about something that you can’t change isn’t really worth the effort. Instead, “Focus on areas where you have agency,” suggests Holly Burton, a career coach for women in male-dominated industries. “You may be stuck in a role you don’t love at work, but you could probably work a few extra hours a week and take on a project that interests you. You could also schedule some proactive meetings with your boss to make an action plan to develop the skills you need to make a lateral move,” she says. In most situations, whether they’re career-related or not, it’s possible to take actions to make things better for yourself.

6. Practice radical acceptance. Some professional coaches suggest trying out the idea of radical acceptance, which is basically accepting the things you cannot change, even if they’re not right or you don’t agree with them.

7.Try this gratitude challenge. First, journal about one event each day for seven days that made you feel happy and/or thankful and include the specifics of why it made you feel that way, going deep into the details. Second, send one random thank you email or text to someone each day, either personally or professionally. This message should include what they did and why it’s worthy of the shout out. Detailed gratitude journals are proven to improve your life satisfaction, so try to stick to a gratitude practice, even in the good times!

What do you do when you’re trying to stay optimistic? Have you tried any of these techniques? Tell us about it @BritandCo!

This article has been updated.

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10 "Outdated" Careers That Won't Be Around For Much Longer

Advancements in technology and shifting consumer behavior are constantly shaping the job market and causing it to evolve. So, some careers that have stood the test of time are becoming obsolete and facing numbered days.

Whether we like it or not, here are 10 outdated careers that may soon be a thing of the past because emerging fields are paving a new way forward.

Scroll to see which outdated careers might disappear sooner rather than later...

1. Warehouse Workers

EqualStock IN

Warehouse jobs, particularly those in large distribution centers for companies like Amazon, are at high risk of being replaced by automation. With the development of AI and advanced robots, companies are looking to automate tasks like order fulfillment, inventory management, and packaging.

Automation offers the advantage of 24/7 operation without the need for breaks or sleep, making it more efficient than human labor. Leaders like Elon Musk have acknowledged that making a full switch will be challenging. Nonetheless, the shift toward technology-driven warehouses is undeniable, and many traditional jobs will likely be transformed or phased out.

2. Librarians

Tima Miroshnichenko

Being a librarian was once viewed as a vital and secure profession. Now, digital tech has changed the way we access information, and with the rise of e-books, audiobooks, and online databases, fewer people are relying on physical libraries for their reading and research needs.

Plus, as books become more affordable and accessible, the traditional library model, which is centered around physical book rentals, is becoming less relevant. So, even though it's unlikely that libraries are going to disappear entirely, the role of librarians may shift toward digital management and online services.

3. Ride-Share Drivers

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Drivers for taxi companies, as well as ride-share apps like Uber and Lyft, are facing an uncertain future as autonomous vehicles become more advanced. Self-driving cars, which are powered by artificial intelligence, are set to revolutionize the transportation industry and possibly eliminate the need for human drivers.

These vehicles will use apps to identify riders, calculate fares, and complete payments, all without any human intervention. This means the role of the traditional ride-share driver may no longer be necessary.

4. Customer Service Reps

Mart Production

AI and chatbots are increasingly replacing customer service representatives, too, as they're capable of handling a wide range of inquiries and issues. These AI-driven systems may offer faster and more efficient solutions and, in turn, eliminate long wait times for customers trying to speak to a human representative.

This, coupled with the fact that chatbots can operate 24/7, will help companies streamline their operations and cut costs. That's why many customer service roles are already being phased out.

5. Legal Secretaries

August de Richelieu

Even legal secretaries are facing threats due to AI-powered tools, which can handle tasks like legal research, document drafting, and contract management. These technologies are automating a lot of the routine work that once required humans and reducing the demand for legal secretaries in law firms.

Now, this role probably won't be completely replaced by AI. Even so, the automation of basic functions could still lead to lower overall staffing needs, particularly for paralegals and junior legal assistants.

6. Cashiers

Andrea Piacquadio

Walk into your local supermarket, and you'll see that technology has already begun to take over traditional checkout processes. With the rise of self-checkout kiosks, mobile payment options like Apple Pay, and even cryptocurrency transactions, the need for human cashiers is steadily decreasing.

Retailers like Amazon have already introduced cashier-free convenience stores, and other companies may follow in their footsteps.

7. Referees

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Not even sports fields seem to be safe from the rise of AI. In fact, referees are increasingly being sidelined as technology takes a more prominent role in officiating sports.

Systems like goal-line technology and Video Assistant Referee (VAR) have already proven that AI can make more accurate and unbiased calls than humans. Another appeal of automated officiating lies in its ability to reduce controversial decisions that spark arguments among players, coaches, and fans.

8. Translators

Ketut Subiyanto

As AI-powered translation tools become more sophisticated, translators are facing stiff competition, too. These systems, which were once limited to basic word-for-word translation, are getting better at understanding context, tone, and nuance.

The improvement of machine learning will also allow for vast amounts of text across various languages to be processed simultaneously, increasing its accuracy. So, the demand for traditional translation services is expected to decline in the wake of faster and cheaper AI solutions.

9. Computer Programmers

Julio Lopez

AI-driven coding tools are advancing as well. Automated programming assistants and open-source AI libraries are streamlining many routine coding tasks, like debugging, code generation, and even basic software development.

Skilled developers will likely still be needed for complex problem-solving and other, more creative software design projects. But, developers whose roles focus on repetitive tasks may see reduced demand.

10. Dispatchers

Mart Production

Finally, human dispatchers may gradually be replaced by AI systems that can manage logistics, emergency responses, and customer inquiries. Things like advanced GPS tracking, automated scheduling, and real-time data processing allow AI to handle dispatch tasks with little human help.

Some cities have already implemented AI for non-emergency calls, slashing the need for human operators on the other end of the phone.

Looking for more work & career news? Sign up for our newsletter!

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How Your Myers-Briggs Personality Type Affects Your Dreams

It's fun to learn more about ourselves and to feel understood — that's why we take personality tests so incessantly. And since we live in an age of increased self-awareness, we can apply those tests to so many things, like our Hogwarts house and makeup preferences. Clearly, knowing thyself has taken on a whole new meaning lately, and we love the things that these tests can tell us — but did you ever wonder how your personality might affect your dreams? In a new study, Best Mattress Brand set out to discover whether specific types of people had particular types of dreams. Read on for their fascinating results.

The test explored each component of the Myers-Briggs types, which can be broken down into eight characteristics:

Extraversion or Introversion: This is the way you focus your energy. Extroverts focus on the outside world, and Introverts focus on their inner world.

Sensing or Intuition: This is the way you process information. Sensing individuals focus on the facts, and Intuitive individuals interpret the facts.

Thinking or Feeling: This is the way you make decisions. Thinkers process decisions logically, and Feelers make decisions with context and emotion in mind.

Judging or Perceiving: This is the lens through which you interpret the world. Judgers prefer decisive action, while Perceivers like to keep their options open.

Together, your individual combination of these eight traits creates your personality type. Given these traits as variables, the study surveyed 1,000 people on their Myers Briggs traits and their sleep habits.

As you'd imagine, there were a lot of discrepancies between Introverts and Extroverts. Interestingly enough, Extroverts are 17.7 percent more satisfied with their levels of energy during waking hours than their introverted counterparts. Perhaps it's because of their dream habits: Extroverts also have 8.3 percent fewer nightmares than Introverts. Extroverts also dream about traveling 13.9 percent more often than Introverts do.

What about the content of these dreams? If you're Intuitive, you're 16.8 percent more likely to dream about being killed than Sensers are. ­Apparently, Intuitive individuals' dreams are more violent across the board: They also dream about getting attacked and “punching something with no effect" more often.

There's also a substantial difference between Thinkers and Feelers when it comes to dreams. The more emotional Feelers dream about getting pregnant more often than Thinkers do, and they dream about their friends more often too. Perhaps Thinkers are just thinking too hard; they talk in their sleep almost 10 percent more than Feelers do.

The Judgers and Perceivers have their differences as well; in fact, Perceivers have night terrors 10.2 percent more often than Judgers, probably due to the fact that they experience reality so deeply.

Does your personality type match up with these findings? Let us know @BritandCo.

(Photo via Brit + Co)

This post has been updated.

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47 Quick, Easy Dinner Ideas Literally Anyone Can Make

Even the best easy dinner recipes like mac and cheese and *all* the healthy slow cooker concoctions can get boring when you cook them night after night. That's why we suggest you spice things up with these easy dinner recipes that totally satisfy! These quick and easy dinner ideas will give you major inspiration for those nights when you're drawing a blank on what to make and need a quick weeknight dinneron the table, stat.

Scroll on for 47 quick and easy dinner recipes that make mealtime a breeze!

What's the easiest thing to cook for dinner?

Kaboompics / PEXELS

In our experience, meals that feature a bunch of different ingredients thrown together (think poke bowls, burrito bowls, stews, and salads) end up being the easiest options to cook for dinner. Plus, they're a great way to clear out any leftovers you may have from the fridge!

What can I cook in 10 minutes?

Cats Coming / PEXELS

Easy meals like air fryer salmon, scrambled eggs and toast, and our risotto cupscan be made in 10 minutes or less. You probably won't be able to make something like a chicken breast or casserole in 10 minutes, but that doesn't mean your dinner still can't be delicious!

What can I cook in 30 minutes?

Engin Akyurt / PEXELS

In addition to the 10-minute meals mentioned above, there are plenty of recipes you can make in 30 minutes (some of them are right on this list!). You can also check out our Instant Pot Recipes and Air Fryer Recipes for some more quick and delicious meals.

What meals can I make for $5?

C1 Superstar / PEXELS

Meals like canned soup, frozen veggies, bagged salads, and other single-serve, pre-assembled meals usually fall under $5. Frozen pizza and spaghetti with marinara sauce are some other great hearty options!

Easy Dinner Recipes To Make Tonight

Brittany Griffin

Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

We love a good Instant Pot meal, and this creamy and delicious pasta dish does not disappoint. It's great for any day of the week, and the leftovers save really well to last you all week! (via Anna Monette Roberts for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Heart-Shaped Pizza

The only thing we can think of that could make pizza better is making heart-shaped pizza. It's the perfect way to show just how much we love this tasty meal. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

20-Minute Vegan Nachos

Nachos that have no animal byproducts and only take 20 minutes? BRB — we're adding this to our easy dinner recipes lineup for the week. (via Brit + Co)

Brittany Griffin

Instant Pot Steamed Cod With Ginger Scallion Sauce

This easy Instant Pot-made dish can be on your table in roughly 30 minutes. From a frozen state, the fish only takes 5 minutes to pressure-cook! (via Anna Monette Roberts for Brit + Co)

Brittany Griffin

Pressure Cooker Vegan Chili

Easy dinner recipes are supposed to be simple. Just dump the ingredients for this pick into your pressure cooker, and you'll have enough food to feed a family, all in less than 30 minutes. (via Anna Monette Roberts for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

10-Minute Vegan Trader Joe's Stir-Fry

Keep a bag of frozen stir-fry veggies and frozen brown rice on hand, and you have the base of a healthy, fast meal you can enjoy for dinner and beyond. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Mango Shrimp Curry

A jar of mango chutney acts as the base of this flavorful shrimp stir-fry. Talk about summery goodness! (via Brit + Co)

Brittany Griffin

Pancetta Pasta

This hearty, saucy, and salty pasta inspired by none other than Food Network star Giada De Laurentiis is the perfect easy dinner idea to whip up on chilly nights. You can make some easy swaps if you don't have pancetta or Pecorino on-hand, using bacon and Parmesan instead. (via Brit + Co)

Easy Dinner Recipes To Try This Week

Justina Huddleston

Vegan Veggie Sausage Foil Packs

Whether you cook them on the grill or in the oven, these foil packets require no cleanup. That's why they're one of the best easy dinner recipes to keep in your back pocket! (via Justina Huddleston for Brit + Co)

Ashley Bare

Thai Basil Stir-Fry

Punchy Thai basil, chiles, and garlic add a burst of flavor to this simple ground chicken stir-fry. Serve with sticky white rice, so you can soak up every last bit of sauce. (via Ashley Bare for Brit + Co)

Justina Huddleston

4-Ingredient Vegan Baked Ziti

Bake your pasta without having to boil it beforehand by giving it a quick soak. You'll be surprised at how much time you save with this easy dinner idea. (via Brit + Co)

Meredith Holser

20-Minute Pizza

Trader Joe's ready-made pizza dough saves the day for this easily customizable pizza idea. (via Meredith Holser forBrit + Co)

Brittany Griffin

Keto Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps

A rotisserie chicken cuts a lot of the labor involved in assembling these lettuce wraps. You can even use canned chicken if a rotisserie is out of reach. Add blue cheese crumbles and walnuts for a meal that's a little more elegant than your usual chicken salad. (via Anna Monette Roberts for Brit + Co)

Audrey Bruno

Cacio e Pepe Chickpeas

Get the classic flavor of cacio e pepe in even less time than usual. Skip waiting for a pot of pasta water to boil, and swap your noodles for chickpeas instead. They have more protein, too! (via Audrey Bruno for Brit + Co)

Jessi Devenyns

Foil Pack Chicken & Broccoli

Seasoned with your favorite spices or marinade, these flexible chicken and broccoli packets can be changed up every time you make them for dinner. (via Jessi Devenyns for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Instant Pot Tuscan White Bean Soup

We love easy dinner recipes that are hearty and perfect for winter! Start with this veggie-loaded soup, then add sausage, bacon, and Parmesan. (via Brit + Co)

Easy + Quick Dinner Ideas

Melanie Burke

Vegetarian Pigs in a Blanket

Three ingredients, 12 minutes, and vegetarian to boot — could it get any easier?! (via Melanie Burke for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Sheet-Pan Lemon Chicken, Squash, and Green Beans

We love everything about this simple and fresh sheet-pan chicken and veggies. Swap out the veg depending on what you've got in the fridge for an easy dinner. (via Brit + Co)

Justina Huddleston

Vegan Sheet-Pan German Sausage and Veggies

Hearty vegan cooking doesn't have to take forever. Whip out your handy sheet-pan, and you'll be eating this medley of veggie sausage, potatoes, and cabbage in about 45 mostly hands-off minutes. (via Justina Huddleston for Brit + Co)

Make These Fast Dinner Ideas Tonight!

Patricia Conte

Mexican-Style Hot Dogs in Lettuce Wraps

A jumble of veggies and black beans put a much fresher spin on traditional hot dogs. (via Patricia Conte for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

20-Minute Tahini Salmon Salad

The rich and nutty tahini dressing is the key to transforming this salmon salad into an scrumptious easy dinner recipe you'll actually get excited about eating. (via Brit + Co)

Gentl and Hyers

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio With All-O the Parsley

You will always have something to eat when you bust out this recipe, which calls for all pantry staples: spaghetti, olive oil, garlic, anchovy, red pepper, and whatever herbs you have. (via Where Cooking Begins)

Munchkin Time

Easy Chicken Piccata

Whip up your this easy dinner recipe in just over a half hour with a cast iron pan! A side of pasta or mashed potatoes completes the meal perfectly. (via Munchkin Time)

Primavera Kitchen

Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast

Sneak in some veggies by sandwiching them in between slices of cheese and chicken. (via Primavera Kitchen)

My Modern Cookery

Baked Greek Chicken Wings With Tzatziki

Chicken wings don't have to be a labor of love — this recipe bakes them on a sheet tray for easy clean-up. Tangy tzatziki dip on the side is a fresh alternative to ranch dressing! (via My Modern Cookery)

Tasty Easy Dinner Ideas

Crazy for Crust

Bean Stuff Casserole

Cheesy bean casserole will please the whole fam any night of the week. (via Crazy for Crust)

Takes Two Eggs

15-Minute Spam Fried Rice

This quick fried rice dish is savory, salty, and protein-filled, thanks to the addition of Spam. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Bowl of Delicious

Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pizza

You won't think twice about adding more Brussels sprouts to your meals after you taste them in this smoky, cheesy pizza. (via Bowl of Delicious)

Wholesome Yum

Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

This stir-fry will please those on paleo, low-carb, or gluten-fee diets. Plus, it's thrifty in time and cost of ingredients. (via Wholesome Yum)

The Cozy Cook

Chicken Scallopini

This classic pasta dish stars a few secret convenient ingredients you probably have in your pantry already. (via The Cozy Cook)

Neil's Healthy Meals

Chorizo Scallop and Kale Stir Fry

Spicy chorizo and sweet scallops cook up quickly in this kale-flecked stir-fry. (via Neil's Healthy Meals)

Primavera Kitchen

Garlic Butter Salmon in Foil

Cooking this buttery salmon in foil means you've got an easy dinner recipe that has a very seamless cleanup. (via Primavera Kitchen)

Laughing Spatula

Greek Chicken Sheet-Pan Dinner

Sheet-pan chicken gets a big boost of flavor with lemon, feta, olives, and roasted veggies. (via Laughing Spatula)

Hearty Easy Dinner Ideas For You!

The Life Jolie

Grilled Hawaiian Pork Chops

Using the grill for these pork chops adds another nice layer of unexpected flavor. (via The Life Jolie)

Easy Dinner Recipes For Every Season

Simple Seasonal

Honey Ham, Gouda, and Apple Quesadillas

This unique spin on the quesadilla is the tastiest answer for nights when you can't bear the thought of eating yet another grilled cheese. (via Simple Seasonal)

Goodie Godmother

Kale and Shrimp Tortellini

Keep frozen tortellini on-hand for when you need to whip up some filling dinners in a flash. (via Goodie Godmother)

Foodal

Lemon Chicken Quinoa Bowls

Loaded with veggies, these protein-packed lemon chicken quinoa bowls fill you up while fueling your body with good stuff. (via Foodal)

Life as a Strawberry

Margarita Chicken Quesadillas

Make your quesadillas into a more substantial meal by filling them with tequila-lime chicken. A dollop of sour cream on top, and dinner is served. (via Life as a Strawberry)

Family Food on the Table

Mexican Shrimp Skillet

This savory Mexican shrimp skillet can be on the table and ready to eat in 20 minutes tops. (via Family Food on the Table)

Mindy's Cooking Obsession

Pasta With Peas & Ricotta

Creamy ricotta and Parmesan cheeses transform this pasta dish into a grown-up version of macaroni and cheese. (via Mindy's Cooking Obsession)

Fannetastic Food

Quinoa Taco Salad

Skip the fried tortilla bowl, and add extra nutrition to your taco salad by including a healthy dose of quinoa. If you're still craving some crunch, sprinkle in a handful of pepitas. (via Fannetastic Food)

Salt & Lavender

Coconut Lime Shrimp

Zesty shrimp cooks up in minutes for a seriously ideal meal any night of the week. (via Salt & Lavender)

The Rustic Foodie

Spicy Vietnamese Salad With Garlic Shrimp

This is not your average salad. Garlic shrimp, avocado, rice noodles, and lots of herbs combine for a hearty bowl with quite the kick! (via The Rustic Foodie)

Primavera Kitchen

Spinach & Feta-Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Bake these rolled chicken bites in the oven for a surprisingly easy and satisfying meal. (via Primavera Kitchen)

The Freelancer's Cookbook

Tortellini, Pesto, and Asparagus Soup

A cozy soup featuring pasta and veggies is the fastest way to sate your comfort food cravings. Pesto contributes to the bright, herbaceous flavor of this easy dinner recipe. (via The Freelancer's Cookbook)

Inside the Rustic Kitchen

Tuna Panzanella

Adding a little protein to your favorite Italian bread salad makes it into a full meal. Use oil-packed Italian tuna for a luxurious touch. (via Inside the Rustic Kitchen)

Living Sweet Moments

Za'atar One Pot Chicken & Rice

Za'atar, a blend of thyme, sumac, and sesame, puts a Middle Eastern twist on this easy, one-pot chicken and rice dish. (via Living Sweet Moments)

Show us your favorite quick and easy dinner recipes in the comments below or by tagging @BritandCo on IG! Join our newsletter for more ideas and inspiration and check out our new cooking and baking classes!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

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The Most Luxurious Products on Amazon That Are Worth the Price Tag

Luxury can come in so many different forms. It can be chic or be a pricer item that simply makes a part of every day life easier. While this might be an untraditional list of our favorite "luxury" products, they are definitely things we think are worth the price tag and come with the convenience of Amazon.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

Say Goodbye to Unwanted Hair

Amazon

Achieve silky-smooth skin with this at-home laser hair removal device. It’s safe, effective, and painless thanks to the built-in cooling system. Perfect for anyone looking for a cost-effective alternative to salon treatments.

See it on Amazon

Chic & Compact Storage

Amazon

Add a touch of elegance to any room with this narrow side table. Its solid wood construction and two-drawer design provide functional storage in a slim, space-saving profile.

See it on Amazon

This LED Medicine Cabinet Brightens Up Your Bathroom Instantly

Amazon

This LED medicine cabinet is the bathroom upgrade that instantly changes the game. With built-in lighting, modern design, and smart storage, it brings functionality and style into one sleek package. Perfect for makeup routines or nighttime rituals, it turns any bathroom into a more polished, well-lit space.

See it on Amazon

Get More Out of Your Skincare Products With This Glow Device

Amazon

This glow device helps you get the most out of your skincare routine by improving absorption, elasticity, and the appearance of pores. It has a microcurrent mode to improve the appearance of fine lines and a derma shot mode to firm up skin. This gadget also pairs with an app with easy-to-follow routines to find your glow.

See it on Amazon

This Dinnerware Set Was One of Oprah's Favorite Things

Amazon

You can't go wrong with a pick from Oprah's Favorite Things. This dinnerware set has service for four, is dishwasher-safe, and comes in a handful of stunning, classic colors that age well.

See it on Amazon

Spruce Up Your Dinner Party Game With This Dinnerware Set

Amazon

This 12-piece dinnerparty set comes in a gorgeous slate gray that is perfect for serving dinner guests. These are a great way to level up your tablescape skills.

See it on Amazon

This 2-Piece Table Set With Gorgeous Rings

Amazon

The natural wood finish and grain of these accent tables add depth and charm to the room, with the rings close enough together to securely hold items like pots and cups. Their versatile style complements trending looks like farmhouse and minimalism effortlessly.

See it on Amazon

This Wood Grain Cabinet With an Edgy Style

Amazon

If you love unique style without going overboard, check out this cabinet with a distinctive swirl pattern. It's lifted off the ground to allow for shoe storage and space for robot vacuums underneath. The doors have a magnetic closure to keep them securely in place.

See it on Amazon

This Countertop Nugget Ice Maker Went Viral On Tik Tok And We Can See Why

Amazon

@hauskris is obsessed with this GE Countertop Nugget Ice Maker with Side Tank and makes every beverage she can with the perfectly sculptured cubes. T. This is no ordinary ice machine; it cranks out chewable, crunchable, crave-able nugget ice that is so unlike traditional hard cubes. It is made from compacted ice flakes, making it the perfect companion for homemade cocktails, sodas, and other creations.

See it on Amazon

An Infrared Sauna Blanket That Helps You Rest, Relax, and Recover

Amazon

Luxury is peak relaxation and health. Give your relaxation routine a boost with this sleeping bag style infrared sauna blanket. The blanket is designed to provide soothing heat that can also help deliver profound relaxation and boost circulation. Buyers said it's great for a quick schvitz with major benefits like glowing skin, muscle recovery, detoxification, and more.

See it on Amazon

Figure Out What's Hurting Your Gut With This Everlywell Food Sensitivity Test

Amazon

This Everlywell Food Sensitivity Test helps people discover what foods they might be sensitive to and can help you figure out what type of elimination you can do to help fix your gut. This test is super user-friendly and has easy-to-read results.

See it on Amazon

This Bathtub Bubble Massage Mat Will Amp Up Your Home-Spa Experience

Amazon

This bathtub massage mat is hands-down one of the best investments I’ve ever made. You just place it on your bathtub floor and it will produce air bubbles that will make you feel as though you’re at the spa! Plus, it has a built-in heater that will give you a soothing and waring experience.

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Hop on the Wonder Oven Train

Amazon

The Wonder Oven is a multifunctional countertop appliance that will air-fry, steam, toast, bake, reheat, roast, and broil. These come in trendy colors and have a simple and retro design that elevates your kitchen. Influencers adore the compact size and versatile functions.

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This Gorgeous TV Stand Is A Bold Statement

Amazon

Not all cottage-core decor needs to be old fashioned, this boldly colored TV stand has that good, rustic feel with a modern vibe as well. You really can't beat that teal color.

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This Storage Cabinet Blends With Every Style

Amazon

From eclectic to geometric and even farmhouse styles, this storage cabinet is designed to fit seamlessly into your space. The multifunctional cupboard features an inner shelf and has a weight capacity of up to 165 pounds. Close it up for neat storage, or leave one side open to showcase your decorating skills.

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This Tufted Accent Chair That Spins

Amazon

This mid-century lounge chair sits 10 inches off the ground and has a tufted design that's hard to take your eyes off. It has a 360-degree swivel and even slightly reclines when you lean back. Choose from 18 colors to fit your space.

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Upgrade Your Wellness Routine with a Sauna Blanket

Amazon

With infrared lighting, this sauna blanket is meant to help you relax while supporting your immune system. It lets you sweat out toxins and calm your body and mind right in the comfort of your own home.

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It's Okay To Be Lazy With This Robot Lawn Mower

Amazon

This highly intelligent Robot Lawn Mower automatically mows yards up to 2700 sq. ft. without a person having to manuever it. You can relax in your backyard while the mower expertly navigates narrow spaces and tight corners around the yard.

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This Hotel-Quality Cotton Duvet Set Is a Customer-Favorite

Amazon

This 100% cotton duvet set has a breathable weave, perfect for year-round comfort. The simple design complements both minimalist and classic bedroom aesthetics.

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Snag This Filtered Shower for a Healthier Hair and Skin

Amazon

Looking for an efficient way to improve your hair's health? You have to try this filtered showerhead. Not only will your hair be renewed, but it also removes chlorine and other impurities from your water that can strip natural oils away, leading to dryness and dullness. Buyers were impressed by how much softer and shiner their hair felt.

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Clean All Sorts of Fabric With This Vacuum

Amazon

If you're not vacuuming your bed regularly, you should be. This handheld vacuum allows you to get dead skin, shed hair, and even pet dander out of your mattress for a cleaner sleep. It's also great for your sofa.

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This Facial Wand Combines 4 Therapies Into 1 Compact Wand

Amazon

Solawave's Radiant Renewal Wand has gone viral time and time again, and it's worth the hype. It provides a light facial massage, galvanic current, red light therapy, and heat for renewed skin. It comes with the brand's activating serum, which contains hyaluronic acid to keep your skin looking dewy.

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This Entryway Table With Gorgeous Gold Legs

Amazon

Adding unique lines to your space, like this entryway table, creates dimension and depth while adding a stylish flair without straining your budget. It’s available in seven stunning color combinations featuring marble and wooden accents, making it easy to match your aesthetic.

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A Sling Accent Chair With a Unique Look

Amazon

The memory foam cushions of this accent chair allow you to fully sink into the comfort of the design, which holds you steady without any hard framing underneath. The deep black steel frame has a contemporary style that supports up to 250 pounds.

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This Globe Light Is So Fun

Amazon

This Mid-Century Modern light is something a little different and fun. Don't be intimidated — it's easy to install and looks so effortlessly elegant that you'll wonder why you didn't do it sooner.

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Take a Dip in the Coleman SaluSpa

Amazon

Most of us can't afford to have a hot tub professionally installed at our house. But that's okay! Because we can afford the Coleman SaluSpa, especially on Prime Day. Enjoy taking a soak with sixty soothing AirJets in this four to six-person hot tub from Coleman, the makers of all things outdoors.

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Custom Mosaic Hanging Lights With 54 Globes To Choose From

Amazon

I've never seen a listing on Amazon like the one for DEMMEX's Turkish Chandelier. Incredibly, there are 54 globe options to pick from, and the number of globes is customizable, as well as the option for the light to be hard-wired or plug-in. The Hanging Lights are 100% handmade in Turkey of hand-cut glass and glass beads. 86% of customer reviews are 5 Stars.

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Treat Yourself to an Espresso Machine

Amazon

This espresso machine is great for those who take their coffee seriously. With a built-in bean grinder and bar pump, you can make quality espressos in just a few minutes.

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This Outdoor Convertible Couch And Lounge Furniture

Amazon

Folk it up or lie it down; this convertible outdoor couch is really great to keep on the back deck for summer parties. I want to get one of these and particularly keep it near my fire pit. However, I really need to be careful because it's made of a lot of wood and could easily catch.

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Make Your Backyard Instagram-Worthy With This Egg Chair

Amazon

Create an Instagram-worthy backyard with this wicker egg chair. The cozy lounger has the softest padded cushions so you can lay back, rest your head and support your back. The all-weather design makes it perfect for outdoor use on the garden or porch.

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A Countertop Dishwasher With Enough Capacity For A Family Of 4

Amazon

I hate to wash dishes, but I don't mind loading the dishwasher. I'm so grateful I have a full-size dishwasher, but if I didn't have the space for one, I'd get a Countertop Dishwasher. The Compact Dishwasher has five wash cycles, including specialized cycles for Baby Care items and even Fruit!

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Enhance Your Bedroom With This Smart LED Nightstand

Amazon

Upgrade your bedside with a table that features wireless phone charging and an LED tri-dimming touch light. This modern piece combines functionality with style, providing a convenient charging spot and customizable lighting for your bedroom.

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Luxury in Convenience With This Side Table

Amazon

This is another table that I can wheel around my house and work on, but this one masquerades as a side table. It can also be a bed table if I want to pretend to be a 19th-century invalid or just don't feel like getting up to work. It's pretty and can be angled so I can read a book or something. It's cool. I think I'll buy it.

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This Gorgeous Bed Frame Will Make Your Bed A Stunner

Amazon

It's amazing the difference that having a great bed frame can do. It can totally change the vibe of a room. This Acacia Wood Bed Frame is put together beautifully and makes the perfect base for a luxury bed set.

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Sleep Better with the Casper Sleep Element Mattress

Amazon

Stay cozy and warm and sleep like a log (a very comfortable log) with the fantastic Casper Sleep Element Mattress. It's designed by Casper, who creates some of the best mattresses out there, and it somehow manages to be both soft and supportive all at the same time. What's not to love?

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A Compact Nook

Amazon

This cozy upholstered armchair works overtime with a storage ottoman that slides right under the seat for an even more compact seating space.

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It's THE Tote Bag!

Amazon

You know the one. It's The Marc Jacobs Tote Bag that everyone's been talking about and TikTok has been in love with for the last few months. There's so much space in here for all of your favorite items, plenty of great pockets, and it's sure to be stylish and look elegant no matter what you decide to pair it with!

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A Cabinet With Tilt-Out Storage For Laundry, Recycling, or Trash

Amazon

The charming beadboard appearance and rubberwood tabletop of Betterhood's Double Tilt-Out Cabinet make it equally suitable for the kitchen, laundry room, bathroom, or hallway. The Tilt-Out Cabinet can hold up to a 10-gallon trash can and has a weight capacity of 30 pounds. The Cabinet is available in various colors and with the option of double or single doors.

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These Sneakers Are Worn by Everyone in Hollywood

Amazon

These sneakers are a cult favorite this spring, and they also happen to be worn by all of our favorite celebrities. These shoes are lightweight, breathable options for everyday wear, blending in seamlessly with all of your favorite looks you had in mind for the season.

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This Pizza Oven For An Italian Adventure

Amazon

Transform outdoor cooking experiences with this Pizza Oven that is a culinary gem that promises authentic flavors and endless fun. Designed for portability, it's constructed from durable stainless steel and is perfect for backyard gatherings or outdoor adventures. With its ability to create pizzas, the oven doubles as a versatile outdoor kitchen.

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Smarten up your shower and luxuriate in the 6-function rain massage system with body jets, with this deluxe stainless steel shower panel tower system

Amazon

An Amazon Choice for "shower panel tower system", this luxury shower panel has a built-in LED temperature display, an LED overhead rainfall shower-head, adjustable high-powered body massage jets, a tub spout, and a high-efficiency multi-function handheld shower wand. Controls multiple combinations of water effects, with its four adjustable jet nozzles for a power mist massage, and three-setting handheld shower fixtures. The shower panel even allows you to turn two of them on at same time if you so desire. choose between black, or an extremely modern-looking brushed polished steel.

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The Gift of Mindfulness

Amazon

TikTok has made it easier to access thoughtful tools for actively engaging in mindfulness. These tone therapy meditation disks are meant to be placed on either side of the body to release a full meditative 3-minute healing sound bath that's helped thousands of Tokers with their anxiety.

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Break a Sweat Using an Under Desk Elliptical

Amazon

Don't have time to head to the gym? Use this under-desk elliptical to get in your daily cardio session with its eight levels of resistance.

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A Pair of Mushroom Lamps That Were Named a Top Pick of The Year

Amazon

The best Mushroom Lamps of 2023 were reviewed by thespruce.com and LAMPS PLUS' Felix Modern Accent Table Lamps came out ahead. The Lamps got top marks for their affordability, modern design, and long power cord. Each Lamp uses two maximum 60-watt bulbs.

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Ugg Tasman Slippers for Indoor and Outdoor Wear

Amazon

These Ugg Tasman slippers are the perfect fall shoes to slip on with any pair of bottoms. You can wear them both indoors and outdoors, thanks to their soft lining and rubber soles. They come in a variety of colors to choose from.

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A Space-Saving Standing Desk

Amazon

Install this space saving wall mounted desk in an unused area of your home to transform it into a little standing or sitting working space that will make you feel so much more productive.

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This Set of Ninja Knives are NeverDull

Amazon

You don't have to worry about these knives going dull on you because Ninja has created a knife block with a fantastic built-in sharpener. They call it their NeverDull knives and it's a genius way to enjoy your favorite set of knives for years to come without losing a single bit of the slicing power.

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This Air Purifier Gave The Internet The Biggest Shock!

Amazon

If you are on TikTok all of the time, I'm pretty sure that you've seen this review that has gone viral! The Okaysou Air Purifier left the world in a big shock. Why? Because this air purifier works so well that people were shocked at how much dust can be in a room and even worse, the amount of dust that you inhale if you don't have one of these. This is definitely a must-have and we can be thankful for that shocking TikTok that went viral!

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Finally, The iRobot Roomba Is On Sale

Amazon

@bradsdeals flagged that the iRobot Roomba might be on sale, and boy are we delighted it is. It is a powerful, intelligent cleaning device that you can schedule to take care of dirt and dust that accumulates around the home. With a premium three-stage system and over ten times the suction power of other models, you can direct this device to clean any room you want, any time you want.

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This Cooling Fan That Doubles As An Air Purifier

Amazon

You will feel like you are breathing in fresh mountain air with this 2-In-1 Fan And Air Purifier. It purifies and cools the air around you while removing odors and gases.

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This Oversized Weather Proof Pod

Amazon

I bought this pod for a partner when we were dating and surprised her with a night of homemade dinner and looking at the stars in our backyard. I have to say it was quite a romantic night even if we're not together now.

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Get a Lot of Bang For Your Buck With a Moravian Star Ceiling Light

Amazon

The right light fixture can make a huge difference in a home's decor. DAYCENT's Ceiling Light Fixture features seeded glass panels that are hand-crafted into the Moravian star shape and sealed with solid brass. The Ceiling Light comes in Brass or Black and is offered in 3 sizes.

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Stay Connected, Safe, and Stylish

Amazon

Keep track of your child’s safety with this GPS-enabled smart watch. It includes phone calls, video chat, and advanced parental controls, perfect for staying connected. Ideal for parents wanting peace of mind and kids wanting a fun, functional watch.

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