Slow Summer Spaghetti with Zucchini Ribbons, Sweet Corn and Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

An easy farmers market spaghetti with roasted summer vegetables, a nostalgic ’70s soundtrack, and a reminder that the best moments in life are often the simplest.

An Easy Summer Pasta made for Slowing Down

Summer cooking should feel different.

It should be lighter, looser, and a little less concerned with perfection. It should leave time for sitting outside, chasing sunsets, listening to music, and spending long evenings with the people we love.

“Summer isn’t asking us to do more. It’s inviting us to notice more.”

This easy summer spaghetti is designed for exactly that kind of night.

Fresh cherry tomatoes, sweet white corn, and garlic roast together on one sheet pan until the tomatoes burst,

the corn begins to caramelize, and the garlic becomes tender and fragrant.

Paper-thin zucchini ribbons join the pan during the final few minutes so they soften gently without becoming heavy or watery.

The roasted vegetables are then tossed with al dente spaghetti, fresh basil, parsley, a small drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, and enough pasta water to bring everything together.

There is no cream sauce, no complicated preparation, and no long list of ingredients.

The vegetables create their own light sauce as they roast. Their juices mingle with the garlic and olive oil, coating the spaghetti with fresh summer flavor.

It is simple, colorful, and satisfying without feeling heavy—the perfect pasta for warm evenings on the patio, at the lake, or around a table filled with friends.

“Summer teaches us that slowing down isn’t falling behind—it’s finally catching up with life.”


Why You’ll Love This Summer Pasta Recipe

  • Everything comes together with one pot and one sheet pan.
  • It highlights fresh farmers market vegetables.
  • The pasta is light and flavorful without a heavy sauce.
  • It can be served hot, warm, or at room temperature.
  • The recipe is easy to customize with seafood, chicken, beans, or cheese.
  • It leaves more time for enjoying summer and less time washing dishes.

Slow Summer Spaghetti with Zucchini Ribbons, Sweet Corn and Roasted Tomatoes

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 40 minutes

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces high-quality spaghetti
  • 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
  • 2 ears fresh sweet white corn, husked
  • 6 garlic cloves, peeled and lightly smashed
  • 2 medium zucchini
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, divided
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
  • ½ cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves, torn
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
  • ½ to 1 cup reserved pasta water
  • Zest of ½ lemon, optional
  • Freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano, optional

Instructions

1. Prepare the sheet pan

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a large rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

2. Roast the tomatoes, corn, and garlic

Cut the corn kernels from the cobs and add them to the prepared sheet pan with the cherry tomatoes and garlic cloves.

Drizzle the vegetables with approximately 1½ tablespoons of the olive oil. Season with ½ teaspoon kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes, if using.

Toss gently and spread the vegetables into an even layer.

Roast for 15 minutes.

3. Make the zucchini ribbons

While the vegetables are roasting, trim the zucchini. Use a vegetable peeler or mandoline to slice each zucchini lengthwise into long, paper-thin ribbons.

Rotate the zucchini as you work, stopping when you reach the soft, seedy center.

4. Add the zucchini to the sheet pan

Remove the sheet pan from the oven and add the zucchini ribbons.

Gently toss the zucchini with the tomatoes, corn, garlic, and roasting juices. Return the pan to the oven and roast for an additional 6 to 8 minutes.

The zucchini should be tender but still hold its shape.

5. Cook the spaghetti

While the zucchini finishes roasting, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil.

Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to the package directions.

Before draining the pasta, reserve at least 1 cup of the starchy cooking water.

6. Toss the pasta

Drain the spaghetti and return it to the pot.

Add the roasted vegetables and all the juices from the sheet pan. Add the remaining olive oil, torn basil, chopped parsley, and approximately ½ cup of reserved pasta water.

Toss the pasta over low heat until the vegetables are evenly distributed and the spaghetti is lightly coated and glossy.

Add additional pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, if needed.

7. Finish and serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper.

Add fresh lemon zest for brightness or grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for a richer finish, if desired.

Serve immediately, or allow the pasta to cool slightly and enjoy it warm or at room temperature.


Tips for the Best Summer Vegetable Pasta

Choose ripe cherry tomatoes

Look for tomatoes that feel heavy for their size and have a rich color. Mixed-color heirloom cherry tomatoes also make the finished dish especially beautiful.

Use fresh corn when possible

Fresh market corn provides a crisp texture and natural sweetness. Frozen corn can be substituted, but thaw and pat it dry before roasting.

Do not overcook the zucchini

Because the zucchini is sliced into delicate ribbons, it only needs a few minutes in the oven. Add it after the other vegetables have already begun roasting.

Save the pasta water

Starchy pasta water helps the roasted vegetable juices and olive oil cling to the spaghetti. It creates a silky finish without adding cream or butter.

Use a flavorful extra-virgin olive oil

Because this recipe uses so few ingredients, the quality of the olive oil matters. Choose one with a fresh, fruity flavor rather than an overly bitter or aggressive finish.


Recipe Variations

Add grilled shrimp or scallops for a light seafood pasta.

Top each bowl with burrata, ricotta, feta, or goat cheese.

Add cannellini beans or chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost.

Substitute linguine, bucatini, angel hair, or your favorite short pasta.

Add arugula or baby spinach when tossing the hot pasta so the greens wilt slightly.

Finish with toasted pine nuts, pistachios, walnuts, or breadcrumbs for texture.

“The sweetest moments are rarely planned. They happen somewhere between the last rays of sunlight and the first stars.”


What to Serve with Summer Spaghetti

Serve this pasta with grilled bread, a simple green salad, marinated olives, or a platter of sliced melon and prosciutto.

For dessert, keep things equally relaxed with fresh peaches, cheesecake or lemon sorbet, berries and whipped cream, or a rustic summer fruit galette.


Summer Cocktail Pairings

Elderflower Gin and Tonic

Ingredients

  • 1½ ounces gin
  • ½ ounce elderflower liqueur
  • 4 ounces chilled tonic water
  • Fresh lemon
  • Cucumber ribbon or basil, for garnish

Instructions

Fill a large wine glass with ice. Add the gin and elderflower liqueur. Top with tonic water and a squeeze of lemon.

Stir gently and garnish with cucumber, basil, or a lemon wheel.

Limoncello Spritz

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces limoncello
  • 3 ounces chilled Prosecco
  • 1 ounce sparkling water
  • Lemon wheel and basil, for garnish

Instructions

Fill a wine glass with ice. Add the limoncello, Prosecco, and sparkling water. Stir gently and garnish with lemon and basil.

Aperol Spritz

Ingredients

  • 3 ounces Prosecco
  • 2 ounces Aperol
  • 1 ounce sparkling water
  • Orange slice, for garnish

Instructions

Fill a wine glass with ice. Add the Prosecco, Aperol, and sparkling water. Stir briefly and garnish with an orange slice.

Wine Pairings for Summer Vegetable Pasta

Choose a wine with crisp acidity, fresh citrus notes, and enough brightness to complement the tomatoes, corn, zucchini, and herbs.

Recommended options include:

  • Vermentino
  • Pinot Grigio
  • Sauvignon Blanc
  • Dry rosé
  • Soave
  • Gavi
  • Prosecco

Serve white and rosé wines well chilled, preferably outside as the sun begins to set.


A ’70s Slow Summer Playlist

Complete the experience with a playlist filled with smooth, easygoing ’70s soft rock and yacht-rock favorites.

Spotify playlist

  • “Summer Breeze” — Seals & Crofts
  • “Right Down the Line” — Gerry Rafferty
  • “Reminiscing” — Little River Band
  • “How Long” — Ace
  • “Baby Come Back” — Player
  • “Dreams” — Fleetwood Mac
  • “Lovely Day” — Bill Withers
  • “What a Fool Believes” — The Doobie Brothers
  • “Moonlight Feels Right” — Starbuck
  • “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” — Looking Glass
  • “Cool Change” — Little River Band
  • “Sailing” — Christopher Cross

Turn up the music, pour something cold, and bring the pasta outside.

Summer is too short to spend the whole evening standing over the stove.

“Maybe reminiscing isn’t about wishing we could go back. Maybe it’s about remembering what mattered most, so we can choose it again today.”


Savor the Slow Summer Moments

This recipe is less about doing something elaborate and more about paying attention to what is already good.

Fresh corn. Warm tomatoes. Fragrant basil. Music playing through an open door. A chilled glass in your hand. People you love gathered around the table.

Take it easy.

Savor each bite.

Laugh more. Live more.

Chill out more.

Watch the sunset instead of watching the clock.

Save this easy summer spaghetti recipe for your next farmers market haul, backyard dinner, lake weekend, or relaxed evening with friends.

“You don’t have to travel far to find paradise. Sometimes it’s waiting on the back patio with spaghetti, basil, good friends, and a July sunset.”

Leave a comment and tell me: What song would you add to the ultimate slow-summer playlist?

Subscribe to The Artful Gourmet for more seasonal recipes, nostalgic food stories, cocktails, curated playlists, and inspiration for living—and eating—a little more deliciously.

“The older I get, the more I realize that luxury isn’t found in extravagance—it’s found in time. Time to cook, time to laugh, time to linger, and time to simply be.”


About the Author

Kristen Hess – Host, Author, Photographer and Creator of The Artful Gourmet

Kristen Hess is a Food Stylist, Photographer, Food Writer, Recipe Developer and the Creator of The Artful Gourmet Blog, Substack and Social Media — a food + lifestyle media brand rooted in fresh comfort food, visual artistry, and the stories we tell around the table. Find her on Substack, The Artful Gourmet Podcast and YouTube Channel and food blog at theartfulgourmet.com.

© 2026 Kristen Hess, The Artful Gourmet | New York | NYC | Remote | Worldwide

kristen@kristen-hess.com | 727-256-7162 |

Podcast | YouTube | Blog | PortfolioSocial | Substack

Summer Stone Fruit Salad with Feta, Mint & Toasted Hazelnuts

The Sweetest Part of Summer Is the One You Don’t Rush

There are only a few weeks each year when stone fruit tastes exactly the way it’s supposed to.

Peaches drip down your wrist after the first bite. Nectarines are floral and fragrant without needing anything added. Plums are sweet with just enough tartness to keep you reaching for another slice. It’s the kind of fruit that reminds you why eating seasonally is always worth the wait.

This is the season for farmers markets overflowing with baskets of colorful fruit, picnic blankets spread beneath shady trees, and dinners that begin a little later because no one is in a hurry.

Windows stay open. The evenings linger. Dessert often starts with whatever looks best in the fruit bowl.

That’s exactly where this salad was born.

Instead of baking the fruit into a pie or crisp, I wanted to let every juicy slice shine on its own. A handful of ripe peaches, nectarines, and plums become something unexpectedly elegant with just a few fresh ingredients.

Creamy feta adds a salty contrast, mint brings a burst of cool freshness, and toasted hazelnuts provide just enough crunch to make every bite interesting.

A light honey-citrus vinaigrette ties everything together without masking the natural sweetness of the fruit. It’s simple, vibrant, and feels like sunshine on a plate.

This is one of those recipes that works for almost any summer occasion. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or salmon, add it to a brunch spread, bring it to a backyard barbecue, or enjoy it as a light lunch with a crisp glass of rosé or sparkling water infused with citrus.

What I love most is how effortless it feels. No oven. Very little prep. Just beautiful ingredients at their seasonal peak doing what they do best.

Summer has a way of reminding us that the simplest meals are often the most memorable.

A bowl of ripe fruit shared outdoors, conversations that stretch into twilight,

and recipes that don’t ask for much beyond fresh ingredients and good company.

So while the peaches are perfectly ripe and the nectarines are overflowing at the market, savor every bite. Before long, autumn apples will take their place—but for now, this is the flavor of summer.


Summer Stone Fruit Salad with Feta, Mint & Toasted Hazelnuts

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 6

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 ripe peaches, sliced

2 ripe nectarines, sliced

2 ripe plums, sliced

4 ounces crumbled feta cheese

¼ cup toasted hazelnuts, roughly chopped

¼ cup fresh mint leaves, torn

2 cups baby arugula or mixed spring greens (optional)

Freshly cracked black pepper

Honey Citrus Dressing

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon fresh orange juice

1 teaspoon honey

½ teaspoon Dijon mustard

Pinch of flaky sea salt

Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Toast the hazelnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant. Let cool, then roughly chop.

Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Arrange the sliced peaches, nectarines, and plums on a large serving platter or shallow bowl.

If using greens, scatter them underneath the fruit.

Sprinkle with crumbled feta, toasted hazelnuts, and fresh mint.

Drizzle lightly with the honey-citrus dressing just before serving.

Finish with freshly cracked black pepper and a few extra mint leaves.

Serve immediately while the fruit is at its freshest.

Tips for the Best Stone Fruit Salad

Choose fruit that’s ripe but still slightly firm so the slices hold their shape.

Toasting the hazelnuts deepens their flavor and adds wonderful crunch.

Substitute pistachios, almonds, or pecans if preferred.

Try creamy burrata or fresh mozzarella instead of feta for a richer version.

Add fresh basil or tarragon for another layer of summer flavor.


Serving Ideas

This salad pairs beautifully with:

Grilled chicken or shrimp

Cedar plank salmon

Prosciutto and crusty artisan bread

Quinoa or farro bowls

Sparkling rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, or a peach spritz

It’s equally at home on a casual weeknight table or as the centerpiece of a beautiful summer brunch.


More Summer Recipes You’ll Love

Strawberry Jam Galette

Grilled Corn & Zucchini Salad

Mediterranean Chickpea Power Bowls

Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken

Butter Garlic Linguine with Clams


I’d Love to Hear From You

What fruit says summer to you?

Are you reaching for peaches, nectarines, plums, cherries, or something else that’s only perfect for a few fleeting weeks each year? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear about your favorite seasonal traditions.

If you make this recipe…

Tag @ArtfulGourmet on social media so I can see your beautiful creations! Your photos always inspire me, and I love sharing your seasonal dishes with our community.

Happy cooking—and here’s to savoring every delicious bite of summer before the season slips away.


About the Author

Kristen Hess is a food stylist, photographer, recipe developer, and food writer behind The Artful Gourmet. Find more recipes, food stories, and culinary inspiration on her Substack.

You can find more inspiring food stories and cooking videos on The Artful Gourmet Podcast and YouTube channel.

Tags:

#SummerStoneFruitSalad #StoneFruit #PeachSeason #Nectarines #Plums #SummerSalad #FarmersMarket #EatSeasonal #FreshRecipes #HealthyEating #FetaCheese #Mint #Hazelnuts #SummerEntertaining #TheArtfulGourmet

Happy Easter! A Sunny Peach Salad + The Latest News

Grilled Avocado and Peach Salad

Spring Flowers

There’s something about Easter that always feels like a gentle exhale.

A shift.

A soft return to light.

A reminder that something new is always just around the corner.

This year, I found myself leaning into that feeling more than ever—creating a menu that’s bright, fresh, and full of life… while quietly stepping into a brand new chapter of my own.

Grilled Peach and Avocado Salad

At the heart of this Easter table is a Grilled Peach and Avocado Salad that feels almost too pretty to eat—almost. Juicy, ripe peaches layered with crisp greens, a kiss of citrus, and just enough richness to balance it all out. It’s simple, but elevated. Effortless, but intentional.

The kind of dish that doesn’t try too hard… and still steals the show.

✨ “This is the kind of recipe that feels like golden hour on a plate—fresh, glowing, and just a little bit magical.”

It’s everything I love about spring cooking: seasonal ingredients, vibrant color, and letting the natural beauty of food do the talking.

It’s made with juicy grilled peaches, avocado, arugula, baby kale and spinach mix, red onions and topped with a lovely Shallot Vinaigrette and crumbled feta and honey toasted pecans.

I don’t know about you, but I’m ready for some Summer sunshine in my life!

Enjoy ☀️

Grilled Avocado and Peach Salad
theartfulgourmet

Grilled Peach + Avocado Salad

A beautiful sunny Spring salad made with juicy grilled peaches, avocado, arugula, baby kale and spinach mix, red onions and tossed with a lovely Shallot Vinaigrette and garnished with crumbled feta and honey toasted pecans.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 2 people
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 870

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large peaches, thoroughly washed
  • 1 tbsp shallots, finely minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp whole grain mustard
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Sea salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste
  • 5 oz arugula, baby spinach and kale mixed greens
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese optional
  • 1/3 cup honey toasted pecans, crushed
  • 1/3 cup red onions, sliced thin or shaved
  • 1 large  Hass avocado, diced

Method
 

  1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Cut peaches into wedges while grill is preheating.
  2. Spray hot grill liberally with non-stick spray. Grill peaches for 4 to 6 minutes or until peaches are nicely marked on all cut sides. You can also grill the peaches in a grill pan for the same effect.
  3. Make vinaigrette by combining shallots, lemon juice, mustard and olive oil, salt and pepper to taste - whisk until just combined.
  4. Assemble salad, in a large bowl. Add mixed greens, peaches, avocado slices and red onions.
  5. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to combine.
  6. Top with crumbled feta (if using) and toasted pecans for garnish on top of the salad. Add more avocado slices on top if desired.

Notes

 
If you are vegan and want to make this recipe dairy-free, simply remove the feta cheese crumbles and substitute with a soy-based vegan cheese or more nuts, fruit, or veggies. 
Nutrition
870 cal | 45g carbs | 73g fat | 15g protein
Recipe adapted from  H-E-B 
 

📸 SOME NEW NEWS

I’ve recently opened a new ShopMy online shop  where I’m curating some of my favorite things – food, wine, books, cookbooks, cooking and baking supplies, clothes, shoes, cosmetics and homegoods and so much more.

One of my ShopMy Partner merchants, @campsnapcamera, just gave me a NEW custom discount code for my followers – and it gives you 7% off all Camp Snap cameras!

Code: KRISTEN-HESS7 
Discount: 7% off 

Check out this camera below 👉🏻 https://shopmy.us/shop/product/207870

Camp Snap Screen-Free Digital Camera 

  • No Screen
  • Point and Shoot
  • Light & portable
  • 500 Shots on One Charge
  • Reusable & Rechargeable
  • The photos have a cool vintage look 
  • It comes in 12 fun colors 🎨

Claim 7% Discount

More info on the camera: https://www.campsnapphoto.com/products/screen-free-digital-camera-v103

New Linktree page & Online Shop

I created a new Linktree page which has literally every single link to get in touch and follow me on social, web, etc. 

Curated online shopping pages featuring my favorite kitchen, styling, and entertaining finds. I have new shops with curated finds on my Linktree shop and my Amazon shop as well.

Check out my other cool curated products on my new ShopMy store

Check in often as I’ll be partnering with more cool brands to offer special discounts to my followers!

And if you’re not in the mood for shopping but are liking my content, you can support me with any amount donation at Buy Me A Coffee

New Community Pages + Upcoming Online Courses

I also have a new Artful Gourmet Community Page where I’ll soon be offering online Food Styling & Photography Courses, free downloadable PDF resources, cookbooks, e-books, 1:1 coaching sessions, and live demos and teaching sessions (also starting these soon on my Substack!) so stay tuned for more so you can sign up for these.

📸 Work With Me – Online Booking Site

Behind the scenes, there’s been just as much blooming happening as there is on the plate.

This season marks a new evolution of The Artful Gourmet—one that feels more expansive, more connected, and more aligned than ever.

I’ve been building out new ways to experience the brand, including:

  • Curated online shopping pages featuring my favorite kitchen, styling, and entertaining finds
  • A new Kit Community space to connect, collaborate, and share resources
  • Updated photoshoot packages for brands and restaurants
  • Streamlined online booking to make working together easier than ever

I do custom estimates for larger shoots including food styling, photography, food and branded videos, social media content creation, and multi-platform brand collaborations and sponsored campaigns.

Reach out and send me a message on the contact form on my portfolio site or send an email to studioinfo (at) theartfulgourmet.com with your project details and contact info and I’ll be in touch to discuss and provide a quote.

If you’re interested in my preset food photography packages – you can book me online here. 

 

The Artful Gourmet Podcast + YouTube

If you haven’t tuned into The Artful Gourmet Podcast yet we have three podcast mini-series you can check out – each with a different theme but all related to food, creativity, mindset and living an Artful Life.

INTO FOCUS Series

A series on mindset, resilience, and the business side of being a creative entrepreneur. In these inspiring motivational episodes, I delve into the stories and insights that will shape the series, offering a sneak peek into the compelling narratives and thought-provoking discussions of what it takes to become a successful creative business owner, photographer and creator.

Whether you’re a long-time listener or new to The Artful Gourmet community, this series promises to captivate and inspire. Stay tuned to discover what lies ahead in “Into Focus.” 

Listen to the latest episode

#UNFILTERED Series

A new interview series where I sit down with creators, tastemakers, movers and shakers to talk about the journeys behind the work. The inspiration. The challenges. And the lessons learned along the way.

So pull up a chair…pour a glass of wine or grab a coffee…

And join the conversation. 

Listen to episode 1 on Spotify

GROOVY EATS Series

Groovy Eats retro cooking show by Kristen Hess The Artful Gourmet

Groovy Eats is pure nostalgia! This is the place where we highlight and bring back to life all of our favorite retro music, recipes, history and “vibe” of the 70s, 80s, and 90s. You’ll find heartfelt storytelling with personal memories, great food, and a lot of groove

 

Season 1: The 1970s is live! 

The show is available on The Artful Gourmet Podcast and you can find all of the Season 1 episodes also on my YouTube channel .

Kristen Hess, Host of Groovy Eats YouTube cooking show series
Kristen Hess, Host of Groovy Eats YouTube cooking show series

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I also produce companion essays, stories, playlists, videos, photos from every Groovy Eats episode on the blog and Substack to give you a full picture of that time and place with multimedia storytelling. 

Stay tuned for episode 4 launching in April. We’ve got disco, 70s cocktails, late night party bites and plenty of sequins and disco lights to bring the house down.

Don’t miss this one!

Season 2: The 1980’s and Season 3: The 1990’s will be coming out later this year and next year, so stay tuned  for more retro food, music and fun 🤩 ☮️ 💃

Groovy Eats by Kristen Hess The Artful Gourmet

Listen to the latest episode

Watch the latest episode

And you can also tune into all of the Groovy Eats companion podcasts on YouTube and Substack, or wherever you get your podcasts.

MORE NEW NEWS!

🎥 Women In Power TV Episode

My TV documentary episode on Women In Power is airing in mid-2026 on Inside Success Networks on major streaming platforms!

The new show highlights women entrepreneurs and small business owners and leaders in their industries and each episode tells a story of the women’s experience starting their business, their biggest achievements and how they found success- even in the midst of obstacles and struggles by simply believing in themselves and working hard to follow their dreams.

My episode was shot in South Beach last November and the whole experience was so. much. FUN!

I had a blast meeting Rudy Mawer, Producer and Owner of Inside Success TV and we had a great conference and parties, meetups etc. where I got to hang out with all of the cast and crew from the show. 

I’m so excited for the episode to air soon!

Read more about my episode

Read the full press release

Final Thoughts

Well that was a lot of news yes? 

And maybe the biggest shift of all…

I’m getting ready to move back to New York.

It feels like a full-circle moment—returning to my roots, my creative foundation, my people. The city where so much of this journey began.

There’s something about New York that sharpens your edge, expands your vision, and reminds you what you’re capable of.

✨ “Some places don’t just inspire you—they remind you who you are.”
 

I’m beyond excited to step back into that energy, reconnect with friends and family, and open the door to what’s next.

As always, wishing you all a fabulous Easter, and week ahead – remember to stay inspired, stay happy and stay hungry.

Kristen 😃

Kristen Hess NYC Food Stylist - NYC Food Photographer Owner The Artful Gourmet

Kristen Hess | The Artful Gourmet

Hi, I’m Kristen—food stylist, photographer, and creator behind The Artful Gourmet. This is where I share a curated mix of elevated recipes, food styling and photography tips, travel-inspired dishes, and creative lifestyle inspiration designed to make everyday moments feel a little more artful.

From behind-the-scenes looks at my shoots to seasonal cooking ideas, mindset insights, and the tools I actually use in my work, you’ll find a blend of beauty, flavor, and storytelling woven into everything I create. If you love thoughtfully styled food, fresh ingredients, and living well with intention, you’re in the right place—pull up a chair and stay awhile. 🍷✨

Crockpot Mississippi Pot Roast + Cheesy Cauliflower Mash

Mississippi Pot Roast with Cheesy Cauliflower Mash

There’s something deeply satisfying about a recipe that asks very little of you and gives everything in return.

This Crockpot Mississippi Pot Roast is one of those quietly magical dishes — the kind that fills the kitchen with rich, savory aromas while you go about your day. It’s unfussy, comforting, and endlessly reliable, yet still feels special when it lands on the table.

I love pairing this slow-cooked classic with cheesy cauliflower mash — creamy, indulgent, and lighter than traditional potatoes — because comfort food should feel good and taste incredible. This is the kind of meal meant for cozy evenings, a good glass of wine, and music humming softly in the background.

Mississippi Pot Roast with Cheesy Cauliflower Mash

Comfort Food Done Right — Low Carb, Slow-Cooked & Full of Flavor.

Mississippi Pot Roast is the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a cold day — rich, tender, and effortlessly delicious. Originating in Mississippi in the 1990s, this slow-cooker classic has become an internet sensation thanks to its simplicity and melt-in-your-mouth results.

But we’ve given it a special twist — pairing it with cheesy cauliflower mash to keep it low-carb, creamy, and irresistibly savory.

Mississippi Pot Roast with Cheesy Cauliflower Mash

🥘 What Is Mississippi Pot Roast?

Mississippi Pot Roast is a Southern favorite slow-cooked beef dish born in Ripley, Mississippi. Despite how modern it feels, it has a surprisingly recent origin story — first created in the 1990s by a home cook, Robin Chapman, who adapted her aunt’s pot roast and tweaked the seasoning to be less spicy — using ranch dressing seasoning, au jus gravy mix, butter, and pepperoncini (banana peppers). It was shared in a church cookbook and soon became a viral classic in home cook circles.

The name comes simply from the state it was first created in — but its popularity has spread far beyond the South thanks to blogs, cookbooks, food communities, and social media shares, earning it nicknames like “the roast that owns the internet.”

👩‍🍳 Why You’ll Love This Version

✔ Crazy easy, dump-and-go preparation in the crockpot

✔ Tender, flavorful beef that falls apart and shreds perfectly

✔ Low-carb with cheesy cauliflower mash instead of potatoes

✔ Perfect for weeknights or weekend comfort lunches

✔ Keto, Gluten-free and adaptable to many diets

Mississippi Pot Roast with Cheesy Cauliflower Mash

Mississippi Pot Roast with Cheesy Cauliflower Mash
theartfulgourmet

Crockpot Mississippi Pot Roast + Cheesy Cauliflower Mash

Comfort Food Done Right — Low Carb, Slow-Cooked & Full of Flavor.
Mississippi Pot Roast is the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a cold day — rich, tender, and effortlessly delicious. Originating in Mississippi in the 1990s, this slow-cooker classic has become an internet sensation thanks to its simplicity and melt-in-your-mouth results.
But we’ve given it a special twist — pairing it with cheesy cauliflower mash to keep it low-carb, creamy, and irresistibly savory.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

Mississippi Pot Roast
  • 3–4 lbs beef roast (chuck or outside round)
  • 10 oz beef broth
  • 6 pepperoncini peppers
  • 1/4 cup pepperoncini juice
  • 1 stick unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried dill
  • dash spicy seasoning (like Creole or Cajun)
Cheesy Cauliflower Mash
  • 1 head cauliflower, chopped
  • 2 tbsp cream or half and half
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Garlic salt and pepper, to taste

Method
 

Prepare the Pot Roast
  1. Mix dried seasonings in a small bowl and rub all over the beef.
  2. Place roast in the crockpot.
  3. Add beef broth, pepperoncini peppers + juice, white balsamic vinegar, and butter on top.
  4. Cook on low for 8 hours (or high for 4–5).
Shred + Sauce
  1. Remove beef and shred with two forks.
  2. Optional: Stir cornstarch/xanthan gum into juices to thicken.
  3. Return shredded meat to juices.
Make Cheesy Cauliflower Mash
  1. Microwave cauliflower with cream + butter 12 minutes, stirring halfway.
  2. Blend with cheese until smooth.
  3. Season with garlic salt + pepper.
Serve
  1. Pile tender roast and pepperoncini over cheesy cauliflower mash and spoon extra sauce over top.

Notes

Serve with a hearty red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah/Shiraz or Zinfandel, or a dark rich beer like Guinness. A brown spirit cocktail could also pair well with this hearty savory dish as well. 

Mississippi Pot Roast with Cheesy Cauliflower Mash

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Mississippi Pot Roast is incredibly versatile — serve it over:

  • Classic mashed potatoes
  • Cauliflower rice
  • Egg noodles
  • Rice or crusty rolls or garlic bread
  • In sandwiches with melted provolone

🔁 Variations to Try

Classic Version: Use ranch and au jus seasoning packets instead of homemade seasoning.

Instant Pot: Pressure cook for about 1 hour with 1 cup beef broth (great for faster results).

Mississippi Chicken: Swap out beef for chicken breasts with similar seasonings for a lighter version.

Add Veggies: Toss in carrots and quartered potatoes for a heartier pot roast.

🔥 Pro Tips for the Perfect Roast

  • Don’t lift the lid! Slow cooking thrives on trapped heat — lifting the lid can toughen the meat.
  • Sear first (optional): Browning the beef adds flavor but isn’t necessary.
  • Adjust heat: The Pepperoncini adds tang, not intense heat/spice — add more juice if you like it hot and want a bolder flavor.
  • Thicken the gravy: A dash of cornstarch or Xanthan gum helps it thicken up and makes a richer sauce.

🍷 Perfect Wine Pairings

Mississippi Pot Roast is rich, buttery, and savory — which means it loves a wine with structure, warmth, and a little soul.

🍷 Cabernet Sauvignon (California or Washington)

Bold enough to stand up to the beef and butter, with dark fruit notes that complement the savory gravy.

🍷 Syrah / Shiraz

Peppery and plush — a natural match for the pepperoncini tang and slow-cooked richness.

🍷 Zinfandel

If you love a cozy, fruit-forward wine with a touch of spice, this is a beautiful pairing for comfort cooking nights.

🍷 Pinot Noir (Oregon or Burgundy-style)

For a softer, elegant option — earthy, smooth, and perfect if you want the meal to feel elevated yet relaxed.

Serving tip: Slightly warm reds (not over-chilled) work best here.

🎶 Music Playlist: “Slow Cooker Soul”

This recipe begs for music that feels warm, nostalgic, and a little soulful — something that makes the kitchen feel like a sanctuary.

Playlist Vibe:  Cozy • Classic • Soulful • Easygoing

Suggested Artists & Tracks:

  • Fleetwood Mac – Dreams
  • Van Morrison – Into the Mystic
  • Norah Jones – Come Away With Me
  • Carole King – It’s Too Late
  • Bill Withers – Lovely Day
  • Steely Dan – Deacon Blues
  • Diana Ross – Ain’t No Mountain High Enough
  • Hall & Oates – Sara Smile

Perfect for a Sunday afternoon or a slow winter evening.

This is the kind of recipe that becomes part of your rhythm — dependable, comforting, and always welcome. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, Mississippi Pot Roast has a way of making the day feel softer and the meal feel intentional.

Pour a glass of wine, let the slow cooker do the work, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a home that smells like dinner is going to be really good.

Other recipes you might enjoy:

Hearty Beef Vegetable Soup

Keto Cheesy Bacon Chicken

Rock Star Chili

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