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A Southern Soul: Easy Recipes & Stressfree Entertaining Ideas

I’m Donya, the life behind A Southern Soul. I share recipes that are easy to make and full of flavor using simple ingredients. You'll find meal plans for family dinners along with inspiration for entertaining.

Featured Post

Homemade and So Much Better

Hey Reader! I’ve got a recipe that’s been on repeat in my kitchen — Southern Candied Pecans. What started as a last-minute holiday snack has turned into something I make all year long. They’re sweet, crunchy, and just a little bit spiced, and I promise you’ll want to make a double batch. Southern Candied Pecans Try This Recipe NEW! Midweek Menu + The Weekend Spread What to Serve With Crunchy Sweet Pecans On a snack board with Pimento Cheese and Salami Chips. Sprinkled on Spinach Salad. For...

Hey Reader! Soup’s on! When the days turn chilly, I always find myself craving something warm and cozy. From hearty stews to comforting chili, I’ve gathered my best recipes to keep you and your family comfy all season long. Best Soup Recipes for Fall and Winter Make These Recipes Pin for Later What to Serve With Warm Soup or Chili... Creamed Corn Cornbread Muffins Easy Beer Bread Zucchini Cheese Bread Make Life Easy! Shop With Me Show Me Your Southern Soul! I’d love to see your creations!...

Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Hey Reader! When I want something fresh and full of flavor, this Mediterranean Pasta Salad is the first thing I make. Tender pasta, juicy veggies, briny olives, and creamy feta all come together with my homemade Greek dressing — it’s simple, bright, and super satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that works for just about everything: a quick lunch, a summer cookout, or an easy dinner when you want something lighter. My "Sort of Famous" Mediterranean Pasta Salad Make This Recipe Pin for Later What...

Dinner Ideas for busy People

Hey Reader! What’s for dinner?” If that question wears you out, I’ve got you covered. These quick, no-fuss recipes get supper on the table fast. And while I may not always have a plan, I do have a few proven strategies ( and a trick or two) up my sleeve. Dinner Ideas When There's No Time To Cook Make These Recipes Pin for Later I've been hard at work updating your favorite recipes, plus sharing new ones! Here's what's been happening: Cranberry Pecan Slaw Oven Fried Chicken Crock Pot Spinach...

Crock Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip

Hey Reader! One dip I can never skip? My Crock Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of fresh spinach and tender artichokes. Best of all, the slow cooker does the work while I get to enjoy the party. This recipe has a permanent spot on my game day menu, but honestly, I make it for all kinds of get-togethers. A small crock pot keeps it warm, the flavor is incredible, and it disappears every single time I serve it. Want to give it a try? Trust me, this one’s a keeper. Crock...

Cranberry Pecan Slaw

Hey Reader! Looking for a side dish that works anywhere — from weeknight dinners to holiday tables? My Cranberry Pecan Slaw is crunchy, creamy, and full of flavor. This is a recipe that’s the heart of Southern food — dishes that taste good, but also make people feel connected...find out more in my post. Cranberry Pecan Slaw Try This Recipe My Favorites To Serve With This Side... Oven Fried Chicken Brown Sugar Mustard Baked Ham Air Fryer Salmon Crock Pot Country Style Ribs NEW Midweek Menu Is...

Hey Reader! This is one of my most beloved recipes because it tastes like comfort without the fuss of deep-frying or standing over the stove.You can make crispy, crunchy, juice-fried chicken in the oven! I show you how... Oven Fried Chicken Try This Recipe What to Serve With Fried Chicken Southern Fried Corn – Sweet, buttery, and straight from the skillet—pure Southern comfort. Cornbread Muffins – Golden and tender, these little muffins soak up every last bite. Air Fryer Baked Potatoes –...

Hey Reader! Labor Day feels like summer’s grand finale — one last hurrah to gather, fire up the grill, and enjoy the best of the season. If you’re still figuring out what to serve, I’ve got you covered with a simple last-minute Labor Day menu that’s easy and absolutely delicious. Then...when the weekend winds down, it’s the perfect time to welcome September with recipes that feel a little warmer, a little cozier, and full of fall flavor. Last Minute Labor Day Menu Main Dish: Balsamic Chicken...

Hey Reader! I’ve been making this Crock Pot Beef Roast for years, and it’s the one recipe I know I can always count on. It’s simple to prep, consistently earns 5-star reviews, and the flavor is just incredible. The beef turns out fall-apart tender, with gravy that's rich and savory. What I love most is that it’s truly a trusted recipe — whether I’m serving it on a busy weeknight or for Sunday supper, it always works. Easy Crock Pot Beef Roast (Slow Cooker Pot Roast) Make This Recipe Pin For...

Hey Reader! Before you fire up the grill or head to the pool, I’ve got your holiday menu covered. From smoky grilled favorites to fresh summer sides and sweet treats, these recipes make celebrating the long weekend easy, delicious, and stress-free. Easy & Delicious Labor Day Recipes for a Summer Send-Off Get All The Recipes And Tips What You Are Loving... Marry Me Chicken Blueberry Vinaigrette Crock Pot Parmesan Chicken Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Entertain Like A Pro! Shop With Me Show Me...