Art of Natural Living

Easy Shrimp Bisque

By Inger Feb 7, 2026 Soup No Comments

Rich and tasty, Shrimp Bisque is easy to make at home with this simple hack.  And it’s perfect soup for date nights, company dinners–or anytime!

Shrimp Bisque

I’m always excited when I visit a restaurant and see Seafood Bisque on the menu.  Their version is often made with lobster, but I think that (more economical) Shrimp Bisque is just as tasty.  And it’s easy to make with the simple shortcut I’m sharing today!

You see most recipes on the internet have you make a stock for the soup using the shrimp shells.  But that’s extra work and honestly you aren’t going to get a ton of extra flavor from a handful of shells. 

Instead, by using a premade seafood stock (or oyster liquor or clam juice), you actually start with a richer base.  Even better, this streamlines the preparation of the soup. 

Who’s in!  Read more

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

By Inger Jan 31, 2026 Breakfast 3 Comments

Tater tots with meaty, cheesy eggs makes this Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole a crowd-pleasing, comfort food!

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole served

I can’t quite remember what I was making for breakfast that fateful day… perhaps omelets. But I do remember the feeling I might never get out of the kitchen to join the fun. 

I do clearly recall the tip I got afterwards, talking with a friend.  When the family’s all home for the holidays, you’ve really got to start making breakfast casseroles. 

My hesitation arose from several past attempts–which did not have happy endings.  Soggy bread stratas.  Bland, dry egg bakes. And while quiche was a winner it seemed somehow too formal for the long holiday sleepover.

So when my blogging buddies decided to share tater tot recipes, I knew what I had to do.  The resulting Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole was a wild success, effectively putting my husband in comfort food nirvana. Yes!

Better late than never!    Read more

Easy Queso Dip

By Inger Jan 24, 2026 Appetizers 8 Comments

Ready in about 15 minutes, this easy Queso Dip is a tasty appetizer or snack.  Perfect for Game Day, Cinco de Mayo or any occasion!

queso dip

Doesn’t it seem like time flies after the holidays!  Yes, it’s hard to believe that Super Bowl is almost here, with all the excitement and great food.  And what’s more welcome than an appetizer that’s cheesy, spicy and crunchy!    

I first made today’s Queso Dip several years ago after a trip to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta.  I picked up my college student daughter at ASU and we traveled by way of the Bandura Volcano and Ice Cave.

It boasts an extinct volcano crater, hardened lava flows, and an ice cave with a year-round floor of green ice.  Such a fun way to spend college fall break!

A trip to the Southwest is always fun!  And the only downside is that once I get home, I keep craving heat in my food! Read more

Tasty Truffle Popcorn

By Inger Jan 18, 2026 Desserts & Snacks 8 Comments

Rich and flavorful, yet also airy and light, Truffle Popcorn is a tasty and unique snack that’s super easy to make! 

Truffle Popcorn

I have to blame the pandemic—or maybe to credit it.  That’s because when I heard the calls to do quarantine restaurant takeout, I was totally in.  Which is what led me to a tasty burger served with a delightful side of truffle fries. 

Of course loving truffle fries now meant I had to add truffle oil and truffle salt to my pantry!  And then find more tasty ways to use them—like Truffle Popcorn!

Excitedly, I am maybe even more over the moon about this new dish.  The airiness of the popcorn balances the rich truffle butter, while the delicate flavor of the popcorn lets the truffle flavor shine through.  And did I mention it’s easy?

Not I just need to decide if I want to drink wine or beer with this!  Read more

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