The culinary world often looks to the kitchens of Bon Appétit for inspiration, innovative recipes, and a pulse on emerging food trends. It comes as no surprise, then, that the very editors who shape this influential publication are themselves ardent home cooks, constantly experimenting and refining dishes in their personal lives. This intrinsic connection to the act of cooking, both professionally and personally, forms the bedrock of Bon Appétit’s authentic voice. The "What We’re Cooking" series offers a unique, unfiltered glimpse into the real-life culinary endeavors of its staff, demonstrating how their professional expertise translates into practical, delicious meals for themselves, their families, and their friends. Far from being confined to test kitchens, these culinary experts are whipping up everything from elaborate birthday cakes to quick weeknight stir-fries, demonstrating versatility and an unwavering passion for food that extends well beyond office hours. This month’s selections reveal a vibrant tapestry of summer flavors, smart cooking hacks, and comforting classics, reflecting the diverse palates and practical needs of a team deeply embedded in the food landscape. The recipes highlighted address common home cooking scenarios—getting dinner on the table efficiently, satisfying a sweet craving, creatively utilizing leftovers, and elegantly entertaining guests—all while upholding the high standards of flavor and technique readers expect from Bon Appétit. This deep dive into their personal culinary rotations not only offers fresh ideas but also underscores the genuine love for cooking that defines the Bon Appétit ethos.
I. July’s Culinary Highlights: A Week-by-Week Snapshot of Editors’ Kitchens
The beginning of July saw Bon Appétit editors embracing a mix of celebratory dishes, seasonal produce, and clever weeknight solutions. Their selections provide a compelling overview of approachable yet sophisticated home cooking, showcasing how culinary professionals navigate their own kitchens.
A. Mid-July Inspirations: Celebrations and Seasonal Staples (July 17)
The week of July 17 presented a delightful blend of indulgent treats and resourceful summer cooking, demonstrating the editors’ ability to adapt and innovate within their busy schedules. This period often sees a peak in summer produce, influencing many of the choices.
- Dad’s Birthday Indulgence: The Chocolate Olive Oil Cake
Emma Laperruque, the esteemed cooking director at Bon Appétit, marked her father’s birthday with a distinctive choice: the Chocolate Olive Oil Cake, a creation by her colleague Jesse Szewczyk. This particular recipe, known for its fudgy texture and aromatic quality, epitomizes a modern approach to classic desserts. Olive oil, a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, is increasingly recognized for its role in baking, contributing not only moisture but also a subtle, nuanced fruitiness that complements chocolate without overpowering it. This trend has gained traction in recent years, with chefs exploring alternative fats for their unique flavor contributions and perceived health benefits. Laperruque adhered to the core recipe for the cake itself, a testament to its inherent quality and ease of preparation. Her personal touch came in the frosting and assembly: horizontally slicing the cake and layering it with a simple yet luxurious mascarpone cream. This two-ingredient whipped cream, marrying the tang of mascarpone with a light, airy texture, provided an elegant counterpoint to the cake’s richness. The tradition of freezing leftovers, allowing for months of enjoyment, highlights a practical aspect of celebratory baking—extending the pleasure of a special dessert. This choice reflects a broader trend of incorporating unexpected ingredients like olive oil into sweet applications, elevating familiar concepts with sophisticated flavor profiles. The cake’s quick assembly also speaks to the demands of modern life, where even culinary professionals seek efficient
