About Smily Recipes: Real-Life Home Cooking, One Cozy Meal at a Time

Annie, home cook and founder of Smily Recipes, smiling in her kitchen

Hi, I’m Annie—welcome to my kitchen at Smily Recipes.

Let me tell you a little about how this all started. For most of my life, I didn’t think of myself as much of a cook. I grew up in a busy family, where dinner was often whatever we could throw together after work or school. I used to envy people who could whip up a meal without a recipe or panic. Cooking felt like a chore—especially when I was trying to eat healthier but didn’t want to give up the comfort foods I loved.

Everything changed a few years ago. After a rough patch with my health, I realized I needed to start caring for myself in a different way. I began to look for recipes that were both wholesome and actually enjoyable to eat. What I found were endless rules and fads, but not a lot of warmth or real-life advice.

So, I started experimenting—slowly, at first, with a notebook full of scribbled notes, burned pans, and happy accidents. Some days the kitchen was a disaster zone, but other days, I’d make something so good it felt like a tiny celebration. That’s what gave me the courage to start Smily Recipes: a place for people like me, who want food that’s healthy, tasty, and feels like home.

Here’s what you’ll find here:

  • No-nonsense recipes you’ll actually want to make again—simple stews, bright salads, family-style dinners, and treats that make you smile.
  • Tips that come from experience, not perfection. I share what works for me (and what doesn’t!), from using up leftovers to little flavor boosters like fresh herbs or lemon.
  • Ingredients you probably have. If I have to drive across town to find it, I skip it.
  • Encouragement for real life. Some days you want to cook, some days you just want to eat. That’s normal! Smily Recipes is about making food work for you, not the other way around.

My hope is that this site feels like a friend in the kitchen—cheering you on, making you laugh when things go sideways, and always reminding you that food should bring joy, not stress.

If you’re new here, start with my most popular recipes or sign up for my newsletter for a dose of cozy kitchen inspiration every week.

Thanks for letting me be part of your cooking journey. I can’t wait to see what we’ll make together!

With warmth,
Annie