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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

NEW Meal Plan: Bold Flavors, Classic Comforts

Hey Reader! Looking for a dinner plan that’s warm, bold, and just the right mix of savory and sweet? This week, we’re bringing Southern comfort with a Tex-Mex twist — featuring slow-cooked beef, crunchy slaw, classic yams, and a juicy cobbler to wrap it all up. This Week's Dinner Menu Slow Cooker Mexican Shredded Beef: Tender, juicy, and packed with smoky flavor — the ultimate hands-off main dish. Perfect in tacos, bowls, or sandwiches. Southern Vinegar Slaw: Bright, crunchy, and tangy. A...

Pecan Crusted Salmon

Hello there! If you’re looking for a new way to make weeknight dinners feel special, I’ve got just the recipe for you! My Oven Baked Pecan Crusted Salmon is a Southern-inspired dish that’s as easy as it is elegant—perfect for family meals or when you’re entertaining guests. Oven Baked Pecan Crusted Salmon Try This Recipe Pin For Later What to Serve With This Stuffed Baked Potatoes One Pot Mushroom Rice Spinach Salad with Warm Bacon Dressing Gather, Savor & Celebrate Everyday Collage Made on...

Father's Day Done Right!

Hey, friend! Father’s Day is almost here, and if you’re anything like me, you want to make it special—but keep it simple. This year, I’ve rounded up my best recipes for a Father’s Day meal that’s easy to pull off but full of flavor. Whether you’re firing up the grill or gathering around the table, these dishes are made for good food, great company, and celebrating the dads we love. GET THE RECIPES What's Trending This Summer: Easy Hot Crab Dip Rich, creamy, and packed with flavor—this...

Southern Picnic Traditions

Hey, friend! When the weather’s warm and the days feel long, I love packing up a picnic and heading outside. Whether it’s a simple lunch at the park, a backyard blanket situation, or dinner after a summer drive, good food just makes it better. The key? Keep things easy, make-ahead, and full of flavor. Oven-Fried ChickenCrispy on the outside, juicy on the inside—this picnic favorite is baked, not fried.Make a batch Pimento CheeseCreamy, sharp, and made the Southern way—just right for...

Midweek Menu Meal Plan

Hey, friend! Summer meals should be low on stress and high on flavor — and that's exactly what this week's lineup delivers. With no-cook sides, a hands-off slow cooker main, and one ultra-worth-it dessert, you'll keep your kitchen cool and your crew happy. Midweek Menu Supper Plan Southwest Ranch DipCreamy, zesty, and full of Southwestern flavor—this chilled dip comes together in minutes and is perfect with fresh veggies, chips, or tucked into wraps.Get the Recipe Slow Cooker Buffalo...

Southern Snacks For Summer

Hello, hello friend! When the days get long and the weather’s warm, I always keep a few snacks on hand—something sweet for a little pick-me-up or something salty to go alongside a cold drink. Whether I’m packing up a picnic, hosting friends, or just want something to nibble on, these recipes are my go-to’s. They’re easy to make, perfect for sharing, and full of the flavors I crave all summer long. Sweet, Salty, and Southern: My Favorite Summer Snacks Candied Pecans Sweet, crunchy, and just a...

Sandwich and Slider Recipes

Hey, friend! Some days just call for a good sandwich. When things get busy or I don’t feel like making a big fuss, I turn to these sandwiches and sliders. They’re easy to put together, always satisfying, and a favorite around here whether it’s lunch, a casual dinner, or something to share with friends. From warm and cheesy to cool and creamy, this little roundup is full of recipes I make on repeat. My Favorite Sandwich & Slider Recipes Reuben SlidersMelty, tangy, and baked until golden—this...

Southern Vinegar Slaw

Hey, friend! I’ve got a fresh, tangy side dish that’s just right for this time of year—Southern Vinegar Slaw. It’s crisp, made without mayo, and comes together with a handful of pantry staples. The best part? It only gets better with time. GET THE RECIPE Need something to serve it with? Try my BBQ Chicken Legs or Country-Style Ribs — they’re a great match with this slaw! Y'all! This video has gone viral on TikTok! Have you made it? asouthernsoul Ranch potatoes#foilpacket #grilling...

Fresh June Ingredients

Hey, friend! June is one of my favorite months for cooking fresh. Everything feels lighter, brighter, and just a little more fun—especially when you’re using what’s in season. Here’s what’s in season right now and ready for your kitchen: Fruits Strawberries: Fresh Strawberry Bread | Strawberry Caprese Salad | Quick Strawberry Jam Blueberries: Blueberry Vinaigrette | Blueberry Sour Cream Muffins | Blueberry Cake Peaches: No Churn Peach Ice Cream Vegetables New Potatoes: Air Fryer Baby Potatoes...

Midweek Menu-Simple Summer Dinner

Hey, friend! When the weather warms up, the last thing you want is a hot kitchen and a long cleanup. This week’s summer supper plan is full of simple recipes with Southern charm—made for easy evenings, porch sittin’, and plates full of flavor. Simple Summer Supper Menu Plan Sausage & Potato Foil Packs Smoky sausage, seasoned potatoes, and colorful veggies all wrapped up in foil—easy to make, easy to clean, and bursting with flavor whether you’re grilling or baking.Get the Recipe Creamy...