Sparkling sangria, crispy Mars Bars treats, and a frothy tropical drink (good with or without rum!) in today's Delicious Links. 

Every week I look forward to Dana Velden's Weekend Meditation here at The Kitchn. Her small essays always prompt me towards thoughtfulness and gratitude, and peel back new layers of thinking about the kitchen, the home, and living in the world. Dana has this weekend off, but we didn't want to leave you without a dose of meditation. Here is a look back at 10 of our favorite meditations from Dana, all with an eye towards spring and new beginnings. Enjoy! 

Nutella cake from Nigella, green lentil curry, and Champagne granita in today's Delicious Links. More

Sunshine. That's all I want right now. Bright golden sunshine — enough to justify a pair of flip flops. And if it comes in liquid form, like this seasonal brew from Sam Adams, I'll totally take it. 

Black Forest Cake (in a jar), plus homemade pita chips and a chopped salad in today's Delicious Links. More

Last weekend, I made a purchase that I'm pretty sure will change the way I serve cheese forever.

A gluten-free lemon cake, cheesy popovers, and beef burritos in today's Delicious Links. More

Kickin' chicken hash, Southern crab cakes, and broiled oranges for a sunny breakfast in today's Delicious Links. More

Mac and cheese tuna casserole, an Indian snack, and more in today's Delicious Links. More

As a cook, I am quite naturally drawn to the garden, the place where all cooking begins.  But having spent the vast majority of my adult life in cities, I'm not so well-versed in the mysterious ways of soil and plants.  I can never tell if those yellowing leaves mean the plant is thirsty or if it is drowning in my enthusiastic watering.  (I usually forget when I've last watered and so therefore tend to overcompensate.)  Gardening is just not instinctive to me and in fact, I have no problem self-identifying as a black thumb.  But that hasn't stopped me from starting a garden this spring.