19 Ways to Add Greens to Your Meal Using Endives

You (almost) need to have a botany background to understand how this bitter family of veggies is related to one another. But one thing’s for sure: You’re going to want to dig into these 19 endive recipes, regardless if you understand them or not. Using Belgian endive (funny enough, not true endive) as a crisp vehicle for assorted toppings is always a favorite, but these leafy greens can also stand up to some serious heat, even in a salad!

1. Orecchiette with Escarole and Bread Crumbs: This comforting pasta gets an extra savory edge from anchovies. (via Three Clever Sisters)

2. Endive Leaves with Green Goddess Cream: Piped with a cooling cheese filling, these endive boats make for one elegant appetizer. (via A Food Centric Life)

3. Citrus Endive Avocado Salad: How gorgeous is this citrusy endive salad?! Not only does it get major props for its good looks, but it’s an outstanding antidote to cold weather. (via Gourmande in the Kitchen)

4. Lemony Egg Soup with Escarole: This take on avgolemono soup relies on a healthy dose of chopped escarole to add a touch of green. (via The New York Times)

5. Farro with Grilled Endive: Toss these little bundles on the barbie, and you’ll have a healthy salad for your cook out ready in no time! (via The First Mess)

6. Belgian Endive Tarte Tartin: How is it possible that such an impressive tart could require so few — only seven! — ingredients? (via An Edible Mosaic)

7. Gluten Free Salade Lyonnaise: There’s no need to hit up your favorite brunch spot to enjoy this frisée salad. It’s remarkably easy to make at home! (via A Sage Amalgam)

8. Sicilian Chickpeas with Escarole and Caramelized Onions: With every bite of this warm chickpea salad, you get a little taste of all the elements — bitter, nutty, sweet. (via Ezra Pound Cake)

9. Escarole, Provolone and Cherry Tomato Pizza: Escarole and its chicory cousin, radicchio, create a colorful topping for this savory pie. (via Martha Stewart)

10. White Bean + Escarole Chili: Mmm, a bowl of this hearty and healthy chili is sure to warm you up! (via Blue Apron)

11. Roasted Endive: Roasting endive with maple syrup, balsamic vinegar and orange zest mellows out its bitter flavor. (via Dine and Dash)

12. Chicory + Grapefruit Green Smoothie: No kale here, the green hue of this smoothie comes courtesy of curly endive. (via Craving Greens)

13. Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche in Endive: Get the fiesta in your mouth started right with this tantalizing combo. (via All Day I Dream About Food)

14. Endive Gratin with Ham and Gruyere: To make this side, belgian endive are first wrapped in ham than covered in a creamy bechamel and sprinkled with gruyere. Have mercy! (via Dinner for Two)

15. Endive Stuffed with Goat Cheese, Blood Orange and Walnuts: A playful and colorful assortment of goodies combine to create this stunning starter. (via Daisy’s World)

16. Liegeoise Salad: We bet you’ll enjoy this fish-free salad reminiscent of the classic Niçoise? (via Katie at the Kitchen Door)

17. Radicchio and Frisée Salad with Cipollini, Beets and Carrots: Make a meal out of this flavorful salad with the addition of a poached egg, or by tossing it with al dente pasta or steamed grains. (via Brooklyn Supper)

18. Bacon, Gruyere and Endive Quiche (Low Carb, Gluten-free): Think endive gratin in tart form. Soooo good, right? (via All Day I Dream About Food)

19. Apple Endive Strudel: Are you brave enough to enjoy endive for dessert? This recipe promises that the veggie’s bittersweet flavor all but disappears with the assistance of apples and aged balsamic. (via Discover Endive)

What’s your favorite way to prepare endive? Let’s have a chit chat in the comments!

Salad cravings come and go but they can definitely linger when you find the perfect mix of fresh, seasonal ingredients and an irresistibly delicious dressing. These hearty salads are all of those things, and stand on their own as a meal for one or a crowd. The versatility of each is what makes them shine as our very best salad recipes too. Top with your favorite protein for a delicious dinner, proudly bring along to a summer BBQ potluck, or pack for a week's worth of healthy lunches. Whether you're craving a taco-style salad, an all-veggie mix, or a spin on your favorite cuisine like Thai, Middle Eastern, or Southern-Style, these are the best salads to add to your recipe box.

Spring Mix Salad with Lemon Baked Tofu

Pack protein like lemon tofu and edamame to this salad that's filled enough to be its own stand-alone dish. The tangy vinaigrette is so refreshing too! (via Two Spoons for Brit + Co)

Butternut Squash Salad

Rich in nutrients, this veggie salad packs a mouthful of sweet flavors from the roasted butternut, paired with perfectly with a homemade apple cider dressing. (via Brit + Co)

Space Salad

This NASA-inspired recipe, originally developed for deep space travelers, only requires seven ingredients: soybeans, poppy seeds, barley, kale, peanuts, sunflower seeds, and sweet potatoes are all tossed together to create an (ahem) out-of-this-world salad. (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry Arugula Walnut Salad

Here's our favorite go-to spring salad recipe, chock full of fresh fruit + veg we love to savor all season long. (via Brit + Co)

Sweet Potato Salad

This hearty salad mixes together roasted sweet potato, fluffy quinoa, arugula, crumbled feta, and a quick + delicious hummus dressing. (via Live Eat Learn)

Whole30 Chicken and Avocado Salad

We recreated one of Pinterest's most popular Whole30 recipes and learned exactly what all the fuss is about, so good! (via Brit + Co)

Spring Chicken Salad With Sauce Verte

Low-carb fans will love this bright spring salad with seasoned chicken and a mix of veggies like asparagus, English peas, and plenty of greens. (via Brit + Co)

Pesto Chicken Avocado Orzo Salad

Grilled Cajun chicken, orzo, romaine lettuce, and avocado and peppers tossed together with a creamy thousand island dressing is a meal we'll happily add to our weekly salad rotation ASAP. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Roasted Golden Beet Salad With Farro

Roasted beets, farro, goat cheese, and crunchy almonds is hearty enough to serve as a meal on its own but also a dish you'll totally want to share. (via Barley & Sage)

Peach Salad

Peach lovers unite! This salad puts the juicy stone fruit front and center and finishes with a sweet and tangy olive oil dressing. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Summer Watermelon Radish Salad

Watermelon radishes are nothing like your average watermelon. Earthy and packed with a spicy kick, these vegetables go best paired with a simple balsamic vinaigrette. (via Brit + Co)

Curly Endive and Stone Fruit Salad

The best thing about salads is their versatility. Swap the endive here for radicchio, chicories, frisée or some other favorite and grill the stone fruit for added flavor. (via Most Hungry)

Easy Beef Taco Salad

Top this beef salad with your favorite taco toppings and an easy and delicious 2-ingredient dressing!.(via Salt & Lavender)

Spring Orzo Salad

Loaded with asparagus, peas, and a delicious lemon vinaigrette dressing, this salad will satisfy you through summer and beyond. (via Munching With Mariyah)

Shaved Broccolini, Brussel Sprouts, and Kale Salad

This gluten-free and vegetarian salad features shaved broccolini, Brussels sprouts and kale (*all* the greens) and is so easy to make. (via RachL Mansfield)

Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad

Toss crispy romaine hearts, spicy buffalo chicken, and all your favorite veggies with a healthy and super tasty avocado ranch dressing for your next salad craving. (via The Endless Meal)

Apple Berry Walnut Salad

Berry season is a perfect time to make this salad, mixed with kale, red leaf lettuce, blackberries, blueberries, apples, and walnuts. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

These Are The Best Salad Recipes To Mix Up This Summer

Snap Pea And Burrata Salad

Snap peas, cucumbers, radishes, and creamy burrata cheese is the healthy + totally satisfying mix we want in a salad. (via Cozy Cravings)

Santa Fe Chicken Salad

This Chili's copycat recipe is loaded with spicy chicken, yummy veggies, tortilla strips and a zesty Santa Fe sauce. (via The Girl on Bloor)

Winter Greens & Citrus Salad with Tahini-Ginger Dressing

The Japanese-style tahini-ginger dressing in this salad is so good that you'll want to drizzle it on all your veggies — sauteéd kale, steamed broccoli, and more. (via Season Cookbook x Brit + Co)

Panzanella Bread Salad

This salad made with grilled bread, heirloom tomatoes, capers and herbs can be served warm or cold depending on the season and mood. (via Veggie Society)

Authentic Fattoush Salad

Make the most of summer's best produce with a delicious dressing and crunchy homemade pita chips for the ultimate bread salad. (via Forks & Foliage)

Turmeric Rice Salad

Grains are a great way to turn a salad into a meal. This Mediterranean-inspired salad uses turmeric and rice to add a beautiful color, great texture and a lot of nutrition. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Vegan Grilled Club Salad

Inspired by the classic club sandwich, this salad uses similar ingredients grilled to perfection. (via The Edgy Veg)

Bright Winter Salad

This easy, 10-minute salad is packed with antioxidants and introduces dragonfruit to your salad go-to ingredients. (via No Eggs Or Ham)

Easy Fennel Arugula Salad

Mix in sundried tomatoes and artichoke hearts to create a simple and satisfying salad with huge flavor. (via GastroPlant)

Turkish Shepherd Salad

Tomato season is our favorite salad time. Add fresh summer tomatoes, cucumbers and onions, plus sumac, lemon juice and olive oil to make this tasty and refreshing salad in just 5 minutes! (via Give Recipe)

Thai Quinoa Salad

A simple Thai vinaigrette made of sesame oil, lime juice, fish sauce, ginger, and garlic turns your summer produce into a delightful feast! (via A Spicy Perspective)

BÒ LÚC LẮC (VIETNAMESE SHAKING BEEF) ON A BED OF WATERCRESS

This peppery, sweet, and savory bo luc lac is delicious served on a bed of crisp watercress, red onions, and cherry tomatoes, so salad-esque. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Kale Salad

This colorful kale salad made with a fresh strawberry vinaigrette is an ode to California cuisine. (via Culinary Hill)

Cauliflower Citrus Salad

This winter salad is a great one to bookmark come the holidays or try anytime you're craving crunchy and sweet. (via Allo Simone)

Chickpea Shawarma Salad

This plant-based version of the Middle Easter dish still has the same kick of spices but with hearty chickpeas and a dressing that’s tangy, sweet, and tart all at once. (via Chef Bai)

STRAWBERRY SPINACH SALAD & BALSAMIC DRESSING

This healthy summer salad is quick and easy, featuring toasted almonds, sliced cucumbers and in-season strawberries, plus an easy balsamic vinaigrette dressing. (via Two Spoons)

WATERMELON FETA BASIL BALSAMIC SALAD RECIPE

There are few things better than watermelon in season and this salad takes advantage of all of it with complimentary flavors of feta, basil, and balsamic. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Black Eyed Pea and Cornbread Salad

This Southern-style salad had us at cornbread, plus plant-based toppings that are healthy and delicious and totally filling. (via This Wife Cooks)

Follow us on Pinterest for more summer dinner recipe ideas and check out our online cooking classes for more ideas!

From running on 3 hours of sleep to constant diaper changes, mamas do so much. We've teamed up with @diapergenieofficial for a special Mother’s Day gift to make things easier for new moms: receive a FREE Diaper Genie Select Pail with square refill technology, plus enough refills to get you off to a great start! The giveaway will consist of one Select Pail + four Jumbo Refills for an associated value of up to $118. Say goodbye to diaper odors in style with this sleek, easy-to-use pail. The winner will also receive a $500 Amazon gift card to shop for all their baby and household needs. Check the deets below!

Enter to win a new Diaper Genie Select Pail and four Jumbo Refills here. Giveaway ends on May 31. One lucky winner will be announced on Wednesday, June 5.

Good luck mamas! #DiaperGenie #MothersDayMagic

Breakfast might be the first meal of the day, but lunch is equally as important – especially if you start hitting a slump before the afternoon. Between picking the easiest option like cold leftovers (yum!) and dreaming up lunch ideasin the middle of the work day, it's no wonder we need that afternoon cup of coffee so desperately.

But, eating a healthy, delicious lunch every day doesn't mean you have to devote your entire Sunday to meal prep, and the easy lunch ideas ahead prove it. Keep reading for 50 flavor-packed lunches you can make in a matter of minutes. These will save you time *and* still satisfy you, keeping you energized and more productive for the rest of your afternoon. Enjoy!

​What is the easiest thing to make for lunch?

Photo by Vikalinka

Hot Cheesy Salmon Sandwich

Some of the easiest foods to make for lunch are quick recipes like overnight oats, scrambled eggs or tofu, or sandwiches that don't take a lot of time or effort.

What are 10 good lunch foods?

Photo by Completely Delicious

Easy Chicken Ramen Soup

Pasta, soup, salad, sandwiches, toast, smoothies, jar recipes, grilled chicken, mug recipes, and crackers with dip are all good lunch foods. Find more easy lunch ideas below!

What can I make for lunch at home?

Photo by Averie Cooks

Easy Lemon Butter Grouper Fish Tacos

There are a variety of lunch ideas that you can make at home. Versatile ingredients like veggies, chicken or tofu, and your favorite sauces can go in multiple recipes like salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes.

What makes a good small lunch?

Photo by Crowded Kitchen

Arugula Avocado Caprese Salad

Prepared pasta, chicken and egg salads, finger sandwiches, and soups you can pack for a week are all small lunches that will leave you satisfied without weighing you down.

Easy Pasta Lunch Ideas

Mason Jar Ramen

Pre-cooked protein and veggies don't just have to form grain bowls. Liven up your lunch with a fun, healthier take on Cup Noodles. (via Brit + Co)

Pasta with Creamy Pesto Sauce

Serve this creamy sauce with your next easy lunch ideas in just 5 minutes. Use it to drown your favorite pasta shape or roasted cauliflower rice in pure deliciousness. (via The Endless Meal)

Mac and Cheese in a Mug

We could never pass up the opportunity to make mug mac and cheese! Since the recipe calls for a bag of shredded cheese, you can just add your fave. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Creamy Zucchini Pasta

This gluten-free pasta tastes like creamy alfredo, but with a lighter twist, thanks to coconut milk. This one def makes all other lunch ideas look boring. (via Rachel Mansfield)

Brown Butter Sage Pasta

This 10-minute lunchtime meal is gluten-free, and made with just four ingredients – easy peasy! (via Rachel Mansfield)

Salad Lunch Recipes

Simple Fattoush Salad

While this recipe for fattoush salad uses romaine, tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, bell peppers, and herbs, you can really use whatever you have on hand. Open a bag of pita chips instead of baking your own for a lightning-fast lunch. (via Brit + Co)

Keto Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps

This handheld take on chicken salad will please your tummy and your carb count. (via Brit + Co)

Easy Quinoa Salad

If you have leftover quinoa, add in all your fave fruits (dried or fresh), nuts, and herbs for a psuedograin salad that will satiate. Whether you eat it cold or warm, this is an easy lunch that won't leave you wanting more. (via Brit + Co)

Watermelon Radish Salad

Watermelon radishes receive the name for their pink hue and green exterior alone. Flavor-wise, they are the opposite of sweet (the earthy, spicy veg goes best with a simple balsamic vinaigrette). But we don't mind. They're one of the prettiest veggies we've ever seen! (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry Arugula Walnut Salad

Whip up this sweet-and-savory salad with a balsamic vinaigrette dressing for a deceptively nutritious lunch. (via Brit + Co)

Blood Orange + Thyme + Toasted Walnut Fennel Salad

The great thing about salads is how customizable and easy they are to put together. Just reach for whatever fruits and veggies you have in your fridge and mix them up in a bowl! This fennel salad is already making our mouths water. (via Brit + Co)

Creamy Cucumber Salad

This flavorful 5-minute salad made with sour cream, red onion, and dill is delicious on its own or on top of toast. Easy lunch ideas have truly met their match with this fresh take. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Carrot Salad

Simple and delicious, this healthy salad is super easy to toss together. It makes for an unbeatable side dish to accompany your best lunch sandwiches. (via Fancy Peasant)

Super Quick Shrimp Avocado Salad

Three-minute poached shrimp, avocado, cucumber, and fresh herbs compose a salad you never knew your lunch repertoire needed. (via Pinch of Yum)

Easy Chickpea Spinach Salad

This is one amazing salad in terms of taste, nutritional value, and meal prep-ability. (via She Likes Food)

Healthy + Easy Asian Chicken Salad

Use a store-bought rotisserie chicken for this salad, and you’ll have plenty of leftovers for the rest of the week. Switch up the fruits and veggies that you add on top depending on your mood. The more colorful, the better! This is one veggie-packed easy lunch idea we can't get enough of. (via Damn Delicious)

Arugala Avocado Caprese Salad

In just 10 minutes, mix together fresh cherry tomatoes, basil, vegan or OG mozzarella, avocado, arugula and a simple balsamic vinaigrette for a healthy and refreshing lunch. (via Crowded Kitchen)

Chicken Cobb Salad

Use some leftover chicken, pre-crumbled bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and your favorite dressing to quickly assemble a hearty lunch that hardly feels like a salad. (via No. 2 Pencil)

Bowl Lunch Recipes

Tuna Poke Bowl

Perfect for leftover rice, this poke bowl just requires quickly mixing sushi-grade tuna in soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, slicing cucumbers, and topping it off with spicy mayo. This is one of the freshest easy lunch ideas we've seen. (via Brit + Co)

Mermaid Veggie Bowl

Like a poke bowl, this veggie-friendly lunch is easily customizable with whatever chopped veggies you have on hand. Top with your favorite poke classics, like seaweed salad and pickled ginger. (via Brit + Co)

Easy Chicken Ramen Noodle Soup

Warm up in just 10 minutes of cook time with this homemade chicken ramen recipe made with chicken, mushrooms, and noodles in a simple savory broth. (via Completely Delicious)

Easy Açai Bowl

With just five ingredients — apple juice, bananas, frozen berries, Greek yogurt, and frozen acai purée — this acai bowl can be whipped up in a blender in minutes. (via Culinary Hill)

Instant Pot Chili

Your Instant Pot makes this homemade chili an 8-minute meal and a healthy lunch you can have for the week! (via Clean Cuisine)

Avocado Soup

This creamy, vegan soup has a tang of lime juice, a taste of garlic, and a spicy kick from jalapeños! We're hooked on easy lunch ideas like this. (via Live Eat Learn)

Easy Sandwiches + Wraps + Flatbreads To Eat For Lunch

Pressure-Cooker Ramekin Eggs

An Instant Pot will help cook your mix of eggs, mushrooms, and cream into something truly divine. Dig in with a spoon or spread on a slice of your favorite bread for a breakfast-for-lunch feast. (via Brit + Co)

Double Grilled Cheese

This version has cheese both on the inside and outside of the bread for the absolute best grilled cheese possible. (via Brit + Co)

Grilled Fluffernutter

As long as you have all the ingredients on hand, you can certainly whip up this nostalgic bite in five minutes. Make sure you have plenty of napkins! (via Brit + Co)

Easy 10 Minute Lemon Grouper Fish Tacos

Busy day? Top these fish tacos with a honey mustard-lemon sauce for a quick and easy lunch idea. (via Averie Cooks)

Feta Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Give your classic grilled cheese an extra boost of nutrients with warm spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, creamy feta, and melted cheddar. (via Give Recipe)

Hot Cheesy Salmon Sandwich

Tuna melt lovers will enjoy this hot salmon sandwich with a mix of canned and smoked salmon plus oozing melted cheese on delicious crusty bread! (via Vikalinka)

Tofu Scramble

This meal is perfect if you're craving eggs (but don't actually eat eggs). Vegan friends, this is the easy lunch idea for you. (via Munching With Mariyah)

Heirloom Tomato, Basil, and Manchego Toast

While your bread is toasting, slice up a tomato and some manchego, layer them on the bread, and finish with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of basil, salt, and pepper. We love elevated easy lunch ideas like this one. (via Half-Baked Harvest)

Sweet Potato Tostadas

Make this mouthwatering lunch extra easily with store-bought tostadas, which you spread with refried beans (or black beans) and your choice of taco toppings, such as shredded sweet potato and grated cheese. (via She Likes Food)

Pear + Blue Cheese Flatbread

The combination of sweet pears with salty blue cheese and prosciutto (on a piece of naan) makes this a toaster-oven lunch you’ll crave even after you’re done eating it. (via Plain Chicken)

Turkey Panini

It doesn't have to be Thanksgiving to enjoy a turkey-cranberry-cheese sandwich. We'd eat this easy lunch idea every day of the year! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Quick Spinach-Artichoke Turkey Panini

This panini is packed with fresh turkey, spinach-artichoke dip, and sun-dried tomatoes. Buy pre-made dip and already sliced turkey, and lunch basically makes itself. (via Whitney Bond)

Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Juicy grapes, tart apples, and cranberries is straight-up comfort food between two slices. (via Damn Delicious)

Tortilla Pizza

Get your pizza fix in 10 minutes with this tortilla take on pizza dough. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Shaved-Egg Avocado Toast

Beef up your usual avocado toast with a shaved hard-boiled egg, salt, and pepper. After noshing on that, you’ll have all the energy you need to conquer the rest of your day, even when that afternoon slump hits! (via How Sweet Eats)

Chocolate Cinnamon Sugar Toast

If you're looking for something that will go a little bit easier on your stomach, consider this toast recipe! Not only is cinnamon sugar toast a classic that has us feeling all kinds of nostalgic, but the addition of dark chocolate gives it a grown-up spin. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Lunchtime Sandwiches + Toast + Flatbreads

Healthy Hidden Spinach Guacamole

This guacamole is a quick mix of spinach, avocado, red onion, garlic, and jalapeño for a true power lunch. (via Brit + Co)

Smoked Salmon Dip

This low-carb dip mixes smoked salmon, dill, cream cheese, and lemon juice. It will go perfectly with some toasted bread for an easily-to-handle lunch at your disk. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Chocolate Peanut Butter Dip

Swap your PB&J for this sweet and savory dip with a side of your favorite fruit. (via Feel Good Foodie)

3-Ingredient Magic Taco Dip

We're throwing it back to elementary school days with a dip that's perfect for carrots, celery, and all other kinds of finger foods. Add this recipe to your list of easy lunch ideas for some flavor! (via A Spicy Perspective)

5-Minute Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki

With a bag of carrot sticks or pita chips, this easy tzatziki is an instant lunch. (via Live Eat Learn)

Cucumber Mint Yogurt Salad

Enjoy this fresh-tasting dip with a bag of chips or toast for a satisfying lunch. (via Forks & Foliage)

Smoothie Lunch Ideas

Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

For lunch on the go, blend up bananas, Greek yogurt, oats, almond milk, and peanut butter. You can change up the ratios depending on whether you want it thicker (more PB) or thinner (more milk), and voilà! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Watermelon Smoothie

On the lighter side, this watermelon and yogurt smoothie is refreshing and filling and just takes 5 minutes. (via A Spicy Perspective)

More Easy Lunch Ideas

Baked Salmon

This 8-minute easy lunch is perfect with a simple salad, on toast, or on its own. (via The Endless Meal)

Fancy 5-Minute Nachos

If you think about it, nachos are kind of like a different type of salad. This one features cheese, capers, sun-dried tomatoes, and pine nuts for a totally easy but totally delicious. This is also a great way to get rid of leftovers if you have extra veggies in the fridge! (via A Spicy Perspective)

Find more quick, easy lunch ideas on our Food section, get inspired on Pinterest, or join our newsletter!

This post has been updated.

Lead image via Give Recipe.

After compiling my vacation reads, I'm *finally* ready to start combing through Reese Witherspoon's Book Club list. Her revelation about reading books in her cover feature interview with Harper's Bazaar made me realize I need to step my game up ASAP.

Her admirable hobby - that's since led her to create a bourgeoning book club— continues to highlight books with women at the center, girl does she have a great eye for stories that fit every mood. To date, her book club list has amassed over 90 titles of romantic beach reads, thrillers, and more.

Since it's a new year and we're sure you not ready to tackle that many titles, I went through the list to pick the top 26 books worth diving into. Buckle up because they're sure to take our emotions on a ride! After you finish your TBR (To Be Read list), check out 24 Standout Reads From Jenna Bush Hager's Book Club, 20 Captivating Shondaland Book Club Picks, and 16 Must-Reads From The Oprah Winfrey Book Club!

May 2024: How to End a Love Story

How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang

Trigger warning: This book mentions suicide and grief.
Helen Zhang and Grant Shepard are bound by an event that changed their lives forever. Before you ask, it's not a steamy one night stand where one of them ghosted the other.
Their paths actually crossed because of a pivotal accident that neither of them saw coming and it caused Helen to view Grant as her worst enemy for years. However, time passed and they moved on to separately create lucrative careers. What they couldn't have expected was for their paths to cross, especially not at work.
Given the amazing opportunity to be a writer for the TV adaption of her own successful YA books, Helen anxiously travels to LA to accept the position and hit the reset button on her life. She has a brief moment of euphoria until she realizes that Grant will also be in the writer's room.
Now they'll have to confront their complicated feelings for each other in order not to derail their jobs and lives. They know it's impossible for them to have a true love story, but sometimes the messiness of life is all it takes for two people to find common ground and decide how they want their stories to end.

April 2024: The Most Fun We Ever Had

The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo

When Marilyn Connolly and David Sorenson fell in love, all they knew is that nothing could shake their foundation. Despite their unwavering hope in the past, their current reality looks differently than they imagined. Their four daughters — Wendy, Violet, Liza, and Grace — each have a unique set of problems that creates of chaos for the family. From the loss of one's husband to the secrets the youngest daughter keeps, the Sorensons are never quite sure what to expect.

In a shocking turn of events, a young man — Jonah Bendt — shows up and reveals that one of the daughters is his mom. He was placed up for adoption some time ago, but he's ready to come home to learn more about his biological family. There may be drama in The Most Fun We Ever Had, but there's still a family who finds a way back to the love that Marilyn and David have always believed in.

March 2024: Anita De Monte Laughs Last 

Art student Raquel only comes Anita de Monte's story after she starts feeling like she's starting to make a name for herself among College Hill's socialites. The more she learns about how Anita's life was horrifically cut short, she starts drawing parallels between their lives. It's almost like history is repeating itself and it's hitting too close to home.

As Gonzalez alternates between both of their perspectives, Raquel and Anita's lives begin to intersect in a way that makes Anita de Monte Laughs Last the kind of novel that'll have you thinking about it longer after you finish the last page.

February 2024: "Redwood Court" by DéLana R.A. Dameron

Redwood Court reads like a historical love letter to Black families and contains relationships that remind me of my own family. When Mika Tabor starts asking questions about her family's history, she receives much more than her class assignment asked for. The more she listens to her grandparents and observes her parents, she realizes they've been telling her meaningful stories all along. From tales of racism to the sweet grasp of a world that began moving past obvious racial tension, this novel offers a glimpse into the homes of many Black families.

While I often say I'd like to pass down books to my kids, Redwood Court has become something that I feel is mandatory to read.

January 2024: "First Lie Wins" by Ashley Elston

Reese's Book Club is coming in hot with their first pick of the year! This thriller of a reader is all about "Evie Porter" and her separate identities. One paints the picture of who she truly is, but her job places her in the position of assuming a new name in order to complete the mission given to her by Mr. Smith. She's never met Mr. Smith, her boss, but she has the inkling that her latest mission hits a little too close to home.

Does he know more about her than she realizes and can she successfully fulfill the goal he has for? Buy your copy of First Lie Wins today to find out!

December 2023: "Before We Were Innocent" by Ella Berman

What would you do if you knew a terrible secret that involved the death of one of your best friends? In Before We Were Innocent, Bess and Joni find themselves trying to escape answering this. However, some things are hard to bury — especially when the past comes knocking in the form of Joni. Will the two former best friends be able to maintain their innocence or will they have to accept the truth about themselves?

November Pick: "Maybe Next Time" by Cesca Major

If the past few years have felt like you've been stuck in a weird time loop, you'll love this page turner by Cesca Major. Maybe Next Time follows Emma as she navigates being a busy literary agent, wife and mother - except she only seems to have time for her career. When her husband is involved in a tragic car accident, Emma finds herself distraught only to wake up and see him alive again.

As the scenario continues to repeat, Emma will have to dig deep inside herself to correct patterns she's been a part of her to save not only her husband but life as she knows it.

October Pick: "Starling House" by Alix E. Harrow

Starling House is a daring tale of what happens when dreams meet determination, grit and evil. All Opal wants to do is create a haven for herself and her brother Jasper but she'll have to fight for it once she finds herself in the mysterious mansion of author E. Starling. In the depths of the shadows, she'll come face to face with things that'll test her resilience.

September Pick: "Mother-Daughter Murder Night" by Nina Simon 

Image via Target

The women of the Rubicon family have a lot to tangle with in Mother-Daughter Murder Night. When powerful matriarch Lana's granddaughter Jack becomes the prime suspect in an unsolved murder, Lana becomes determined to find a killer instead of waiting for her disease to have it's last say. Find out what Nina Simon has in store for the town the Rubicons find themselves living in.

August Pick: "Tom Lake" by Ann Patchett

Image via Target

Tom Lake weaves a beautiful tale of remembered love and viewing the humanity of one's parent. When Lara begins to regale her three daughters of a former romance she shared with actor Peter Duke at Tome Lake, they begin to take stock of what they know about their mom as well as their own love lives.

"Romantic Comedy" by Curtis Sittenfeld 

Heartbreak has the potential to make you swear off love, which is something that late night writer Sally Milz knows all too well. She's also a firm believer in the "Danny Horst Rule," the phenomenon where average looking men exclusively date women more attractive than them — until pop star Noah Brewster shows up to host the late night show. Join her for an intoxicating love ride that makes her change her perspective.

"Where The Crawdads Sing" by Delia Owens 

If you love a good romance-murder mystery, you'll fall in love with Kya's story. After the town's golden boy winds up dead, everyone in town begins blaming Kya for his murder. With heartbreak and triumph woven throughout, Where The Crawdads Sing will become the summer read you can't put down.

"The House of Eve" by Sadeqa Johnson

Even when forbidden, love seems to find a way in The House of Eve. 15-year-old Ruby is set to be her family's first college attendee, until it appears a scandalous affair will bring her back into poverty. Meanwhile, Eleanor's in love with William, a member of an elite Black family in D.C. that doesn't let just anyone in. The lives of both women will collide in an unexpected way as they forge their own paths.

"The House in the Pines" by Ana Reyes 

Maya witnessed her friend's sudden death in the woods seven years ago. Now, with nothing except a few hazy memories, she's determined to figure out what she saw, and who's behind it. The House In The Pines is proof that sometimes our past — and their secrets — don't stay dead.

"Tiny Beautiful Things" by Cheryl Strayed 

Life can feel like a dumpster fire sometimes which is why Tiny Beautiful Things feels like a soothing hug. If you love advice columns, you'll love the beautiful compilation of questions "Dear Sugar" answers within the pages as Clare sets out to offer advice while her own life falls apart. After you read the book, check out our interview with Sarah Pidgeon, who stars in the Hulu series!

"Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng 

New friends Mia and Elena are pitted against each other when everyone in town splits over a custody battle. Adapted into a mini-series on Hulu at the beginning of the pandemic, Little Fires Everywhere is a tale that shows everything isn't always what it seems, and there are always secrets to be discovered.

"Wrong Place, Wrong Time" by Gillian McAllister 

Wrong Place, Wrong Time is a novel that explores the lengths a mother is willing to take to prevent her son from doing something unspeakable. Will she be able to piece together clues in time or will all hope remain lost?

"Daisy Jones and The Six" by Taylor Jenkins Reid 

This titular novel turned Emmy award-nominated Amazon Prime series Daisy Jones & The Six explores the rise — and fall — of a legendary (and fictional) band.

"True Biz" by Sara Nović 

This heartwarming book about life at the River Valley School for the Deaf, and all of its students with completely different backgrounds, will make you laugh and cry with its beautiful depiction of human connection.

"The Club" by Ellery Lloyd 

If you've never liked hearing "How can you hate from outside the club? You can't even get in," you'll be glad you're not a part of this members-only society. The club has been pushed to its limit and everyone has something to hide.

"The Christie Affair" by Nina de Gramont 

Nan infiltrates Agatha Christie's home in 1925, intent on luring her husband away. There's something about love, affairs, and dark secrets that make for a good read, and you won't be able to get enough of this tale where things aren't always what they seem.

"Lucky" by Marissa Stapley 

"She's so lucky" ...or is she? Lucky redefines what it means to be honest when the titular character completes a million-dollar heist, and is left stranded by the very people who taught her how to scam.

"Sankofa" by Chibundu Onuzo 

When Anna learns the father she never knew is still alive, she travels to West Africa in search of answers. The tale of self-discovery through one's history, as well as the themes of home and belonging, is something we all long to understand at some point.

"L.A. Weather" by María Amparo Escandón 

Families can be complicated, and the Alvarados are no different. If you're looking for a little break from your own family dynamics, you'll get a kick out of reading along as they navigate evacuations, relationship problems, and their father's obsession with the Weather Channel.

"The Paper Palace" by Miranda Cowley Heller 

What happens when desire spills over and threatens to unravel everything two friends have built? The Paper Palace answers that as Elle must choose between continuing the life she has dedicated herself to and the life she never got to live.

"Seven Days in June" by Tia Williams 

When former lovers Eva and Shane reunite in the midst of their successful literary careers, they find that their chemistry is still as strong as it used to be. But, will the flame fizzle before their lingering questions are answered or will Eva choose vulnerability before Shane disappears again?

"The Last Thing He Told Me" by Laura Dave 

What would you do if your significant other disappeared without a trace, only leaving a cryptic note behind? In Hannah's case, she sets out on an unpredictable mission for answers — regardless of what lies ahead. After you read the book, check out our interview with Angourie Rice, who stars in the Apple TV+ series!

"The Sanatorium" by Sarah Pearse 

Le Sommet is a sanatorium-turned-luxury hotel in the Swiss Alps. Detective Elin arrives to celebrate her estranged brother Isaac's engagement to Laure, and her discomfort turns to all-out horror when Laure goes missing.

"You Have a Match" by Emma Lord 

DNA tests can reveal new information about our ancestry, but when Abby learns that she has an older sister — and that her older sister is an Instagram star — the women decide to meet up and get to the bottom of why their parents split them up in the first place.

"The Chicken Sisters" by KJ Dell'Antonia 

Nothing brings families together like food and age-old rivalries, something that sisters Amanda and Mae learn firsthand when they end up on opposite sides of a cooking competition. If you love hit TV series The Bear, you'll love The Chicken Sisters.

Other Stories On Reese Witherspoon's Book Club List

  • "Yellowface" by R.F. Kuang
  • "Cassandra in Reverse" by Holly Smale
  • "Did You Hear About Kitty Karr?" by Crystal Smith Paul
  • "The Nightingale" by Kristin Hannah
  • "The Marriage Portrait" by Maggie O'Farrell
  • "Our Missing Hearts" by Celeste Ng
  • "On The Rooftop" by Margaret Wilkerson Sexton
  • "Honey & Spice" by Bolu Babalola
  • "Counterfeit" by Kirstin Chen
  • "The Dictionary of Lost Words" by Pip Williams
  • "Anatomy" by Dana Schwartz
  • "Honor" by Thrity Umrigar
  • "The Island of Missing Trees" by Elif Shafak
  • "Within These Wicked Walls" by Lauren Blackwood
  • "We Were Never Here" by Andrea Bartz
  • "The Downstairs Girl" by Stacey Lee
  • "Tokyo Ever After" by Emiko Jean
  • "Northern Spy" by Flynn Berry
  • "Firekeeper's Daughter" by Angeline Boulley
  • "Infinite Country" by Patricia Engel
  • "Outlawed" by Anna North
  • "The Light in Hidden Places" by Sharon Cameron
  • "A Cuban Girl's Guide to Tea and Tomorrow" by Laura Taylor Namey
  • "Group" by Christie Tate
  • "Fable" by Adrienne Young
  • "His Only Wife" by Peace Medie Adzo
  • "Furia" by Yamile Saied Mendez
  • "The Last Story of Mina Lee" by Nancy Jooyoun Kim
  • "You Should See Me in a Crown" by Leah Johnson
  • "Everything Inside" by Edwidge Danticat
  • "I'm Still Here" by Austin Channing Brown
  • "The Guest List" by Lisa Foley
  • "The Henna Artist" by Alka Joshi
  • "UNTAMED" by Glennon Doyle
  • "The Jetsetters" by Amanda Eyre Ward
  • "The Scent Keeper" by Erica Bauermeister
  • "Such a Fun Age" by Kiley Reid
  • "Conviction" by Denise Mina
  • "The Giver of Stars" by Jojo Moye
  • "Fair Play" by Eve Rodsky
  • "The Secrets We Kept" by Lara Prescott
  • "The Last House Guest" by Megan Miranda
  • "Whisper Network" by Chandler Baker
  • "The Cactus" by Sarah Haywood
  • "From Scratch" by Tembi Locke
  • "The Night Tiger" by Yangsze Choo
  • "The Proposal" by Jasmine Guillory
  • "The Library Book" by Susan Orlean
  • "One Day in December" by Josie Silver
  • "The Other Woman" by Sandie Jones
  • "This Is How It Always Is" by Laurie Frankel
  • "Still Lives" by Maria Hummel
  • "Next Year in Havana" by Chanel Cleeton
  • "Something in the Water" by Catherine Steadman
  • "You Think It, I'll Say It" by Curtis Sittenfeld
  • "Happiness" by Heather Harpham
  • "Erotic Stories For Punjabi Widows" by Balli Kaur Jaswal
  • "The Light We Lost" by Jill Santopolo
  • "Braving the Wilderness" by Brené Brown
  • "The Last Mrs. Parrish" by Liv Constantine
  • "The Is the Story of a Happy Marriage" by Ann Patchett
  • “The Rules of Magic” by Alice Hoffman
  • "The Lying Game" by Ruth Ware
  • "The Alice Network" by Kate Quinn
  • "Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine" by Gail Honeyman

Whether you want to challenge yourself to read a book every couple of days like Reese or choose a few books to get you through the summer, I'm sure you'll find titles to add to your growing library. I already have my eyes on Where The Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens and The Club by Ellery Lloyd!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

Header Image via Amazon

Growing up on the Outer Banks means I've gone through my fair share of swimsuits. All it takes is one summer of surfing wipeouts, sun bathing, swimming, and hitting up the shops (because you really do everything in a bathing suit on the OBX) to know exactly which bathing suit brands are worth buying — and which are cheap enough to avoid forever. I took to social media to ask real Outer Banks locals which bathing suit brands they can't get enough of. Keep reading for all the details!

Target

Image via Target

I know y'all love Target just as much as I do — and along with their home decor, cute shoes, and comfy clothes, their bathing suit options are some of my friends' favorites. Target's got a ton of diverse and affordable swimwear options that is full of different styles, sizes, and prices. That means there's something for everyone! I'm obsessed with this Underwire Bralette Bikini Top and High Waist High Leg Extra Cheeky Bikini Bottom.

Aerie

Image via Aerie

Aerie is perfect for Outer Banks fans because it's one of the most-used bathing suit brands on the show! This store balances style with comfort and casual, and TBH half the swimsuits are cute enough to be tank tops. Their bathing suits will make you feel confident and add a pop of color to your summer wardrobe! This Smiley® String Triangle Bikini Top and Cheekiest Tie Bikini Bottom are a great place to start ;).

​Old Navy

Image via Old Navy

Old Navy is a great place to shop for affordable basics, and that definitely extends to swimsuit season. Their bathing suits come in a range sizes, and they're durable, classic, and super affordable (a lot of them are under $20!). They also have just enough Americana edge to live out your '00s rom-com dreams. I can't stop looking at the Zip-Front Bikini Swim Top and High-Waisted Bikini Swim Bottoms.

Body Glove

Image via Body Glove

Body Glove is one bathing suit brand that's just as functional as it is stylish, and it's also equal parts feminine and sporty for any gal who's always on the go. The Free Flow Eli One-Piece Swimsuitis one of my favorite suits because it's so colorful and it's also supportive, which you absolutely need when taking part in a treasure hunt.

AlySwim

Image via AlySwim

If you're looking for the true Outer Banks experience, then you should grab a suit made by someone who grew up there! AlySwim is totally customizable, and a lot of the suits are reversible so you get two looks for the price of one. With trendy patterns and vibrant colors, bathing suits like the Blue Hawaiian Eva Top and Bottoms will make a bold statement.

Rey Swimwear

Image via Rey Swimwear

The bathing suits from Rey Swimwear are as classy as they come, and it feels like there are endless options for colors, patterns, and silhouettes. There are also options for longer torsos, which is such a blessing for us #TallGirls. Sarah Cameron would be all over this Marie bathing suit!

More Bathing Suit Brands OBX Locals Love

Image via Kenny Flowers

Maaji is the thing of our '90s dreams, and each bathing suit will make you feel the summer magic we crave all year long. I love the Hot Magenta Adhara V Wire Bralette Bikini Top and Sublimity Regular Rise Classic Bikini Bottoms!

Left on Friday is for the minimalists. But just because the swimsuits are simple and elegant doesn't mean they're boring — and the asymmetrical silhouette on the Shoreline Suit proves it.

Kenny Flowers immediately reminds me of Palm Royale every time I look on their site because of the old school vibe and bright colors. I NEED the Acapulco Underwire Bikini Top and High Waist Bikini Bottom!!

Lime Ricki is the place to go if you're looking for modest swimsuits that will also turn heads all summer long. The bold prints and bright colors are both nostalgic and playful, and it's also a really accessible brand. Celebrate your individuality in a suit like the Shell Stripe Ruffle-Strap One Piece.

Korni Jeane lets you mix and match different vibes to create a bathing suit that's unique to you and your personal aesthetic. I'm confident Kiara would love this Bandeau Top and All Ruffled Up Bottoms.

Every cute bathing suit needs equally cute accessories so check out The 5 Most Comfortable Walking Sandals For Summer, Ranked next!

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Lead image via Kenny Flowers