Serves: 4

Ingredients:

• 400g spaghetti

• 1 bundle asparagus (about 12 spears)

• 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan

• 3–4 egg yolks

• Freshly ground black pepper

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/3 cup heavy cream

• 2 tbsp butter

• 150–200g diced pancetta

Instructions:

1. Prep the asparagus Use a potato peeler to shave the asparagus into thin ribbons. Once it becomes too thin to peel, finely slice the remaining core.

2. Start the pasta Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente.

3. Build the base flavor While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large pan over medium-low heat. Add the diced pancetta, garlic, and asparagus ribbons. Cook gently, stirring frequently, allowing everything to soften and the asparagus to absorb the flavor of the butter, pancetta, and garlic.

4. Make the sauce base In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, Parmesan, and a generous amount of black pepper.

5. Transfer the pasta (no draining) When the pasta is al dente, use tongs to transfer it directly from the pot into the pan with the pancetta and asparagus. Don’t worry if some pasta water comes along—that’s exactly what you want.

6. Create the sauce Turn off the heat. Add the egg and cheese mixture along with the heavy cream. Toss continuously, adding a little extra pasta water as needed, until the sauce becomes smooth, glossy, and coats the pasta without scrambling the eggs.

7. Finish & serve Plate immediately and top with extra Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper.

8. Enjoy!

Servings: 3
Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: ~30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 800 g ground beef

• 1 egg

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (add more if needed)

• 1/4 tsp onion powder

• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

• 1/4 tsp paprika

• Salt, to taste

• Black pepper, to taste

• Olive oil, for cooking

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, chopped onion, and minced garlic.

2. Add the breadcrumbs, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Mix everything together until just combined. If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs until it holds its shape.

4. Form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs.

5. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

6. Cook the meatballs, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and fully cooked through.

Serving suggestion:
Serve with oven-roasted potatoes, red cabbage, and your favorite sauce.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup orzo

• ½ cup Parmesan, grated

• ¾ cup heavy cream

• 1 handful spinach, chopped

• 1 small yellow onion, diced

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped

• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp butter

Seasonings: salt, black pepper, paprika, smoked paprika, onion powder, oregano, Italian seasoning

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft.

2. Add chicken and a little sun-dried tomato oil. Cook until mostly done.

3. Stir in garlic and continue cooking until chicken is cooked through.

4. Add cherry tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir for a minute.

5. Add orzo and chicken broth. Cover, simmer 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Remove lid, lower heat. Add spinach, cream, and Parmesan. Stir until creamy and spinach is wilted.

This recipe makes 2–3 servings of creamy, comforting goodness.

Serving suggestion: Pairs perfectly with a fresh lamb’s lettuce salad with onion, and of course, a glass of your favorite wine.

• 1 large chicken breast (sliced in half lengthwise)

• 1½ cups heavy cream

• 1 tablespoon truffle crème or paste (or more to your liking)

• 2 tablespoons butter (divided)

• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)

• 2 cloves garlic — 1 smashed (for the chicken), 1 minced (for the sauce)

• 1–2 tablespoons flour (for dredging + optional thickening)

• 1 teaspoon garlic salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• Pasta of your choice (fettuccine, tagliatelle, or spaghetti)

• Optional: drizzle of truffle oil for finishing

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water to adjust your sauce later if needed.

2. Prepare the chicken
Slice your chicken breast in half lengthwise to create two thinner cutlets.
In a shallow bowl, combine flour, garlic salt, and black pepper. Lightly coat each chicken piece in the seasoned flour.

3. Cook the chicken
In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the smashed garlic clove and let it infuse the butter for about 1 minute — remove it before it burns.
Add the chicken and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

4. Make the truffle Alfredo sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low. In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter, then add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the truffle crème or paste. Once it melts and becomes aromatic, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
Whisk in the Parmesan until smooth and creamy. If the sauce feels too thin, sprinkle in a small amount of flour and whisk until it thickens slightly.

5. Combine everything
Add your drained pasta directly into the sauce, tossing until evenly coated. If the sauce gets too thick, loosen it with a splash of the reserved pasta water.

6. Serve and enjoy!
Top your creamy truffle Alfredo pasta with the seared chicken. Finish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a drizzle of truffle oil if desired.

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out — or better yet, share it with someone who deserves a little luxury on their plate. 💫

This one is everything I love in a breakfast (or lunch, or let’s be honest—dinner too). Crispy toast, creamy avocado, smoky bacon, juicy tomato, a runny egg, and just a little swipe of mayo to pull it all together. It's rich, it’s messy, and it totally hits the spot.

🛒 What You’ll Need:

• 1 slice of bread (whatever kind you like—sourdough is chef’s kiss)

• 1 egg

• ½ ripe avocado

• 1–2 slices of bacon

• 2–3 slices of tomato

• A little mayo

• Salt & pepper, to taste

🍳 How to Make It:

1. Cook the Egg
   Start by frying your egg to your liking. I love mine over-easy so the yolk runs into everything, but sunny-side up, over-medium, or even scrambled works too.

2. Fry the Bacon
   While your egg is cooking, get your bacon nice and crispy in a separate pan. Drain it on a paper towel when it’s done.

3. Toast the Bread
   Pop your slice of bread into the toaster or toast it in a pan until it’s golden and crunchy on the edges.

4. Add Mayo, Avocado & Tomato
   Spread a thin layer of mayo on your toast—trust me, it makes everything better. Then mash half an avocado on top with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add a few slices of tomato right on top.

5. Assemble
   Layer on your crispy bacon or chop it up and sprinkle your bacon bits , then top it off with the egg. Optional: a sprinkle of chili flakes, hot sauce, or everything seasoning if you’re feeling extra.

It’s basically the kind of toast you’d pay $14 for in LA… except you made it in your kitchen, in like 10 minutes. Enjoy!

A Quick Snack That Always Delivers: Cucumber Turkey Bites with Cream Cheese

When I’m feeling a little homesick for LA, I reach for my favorite Trader Joe’s spice blend—Everything but the Bagel seasoning. It’s a tiny taste of home, and somehow it makes everything feel a little more put together (even if I’m just standing at the counter in sweats).

These little cucumber bites are my go-to when I want something quick but crave that West Coast balance of fresh, creamy, and satisfying. They take five minutes to throw together, and honestly? They feel kind of fancy for how chill they are..

🛒 What You’ll Need:

• ½ cucumber, sliced into thick 1-inch rounds

• Cream cheese (any kind—plain, whipped, herbed… do you)

• Sliced turkey (deli-style or any thin-cut turkey meat)

• Everything but the bagel seasoning

🥒 How to Make It:

1. Slice the Cucumber
   Cut the cucumber into thick rounds—about an inch each. You want them sturdy enough to hold toppings.

2. Spread the Cream Cheese
   Add a little dollop of cream cheese on each slice. I like using a spoon or a butter knife and keeping it rustic.

3. Add your seasoning

   Sprinkle everything but the bagel seasoning over each bite. Don’t skip this—it really pulls everything together.
   

4. Top with turkey

   Fold or tear small pieces of turkey and place them right on top of the cream cheese.
   

   These are perfect as a quick snack, party app, or even a light lunch when you don’t want to cook but also don’t want to not eat something good.

Thanks for reading—and watching! Let me know if you try them, or add your own twist.

A Side Salad That Steals the Show: Corn, Cucumber & Feta Delight

There’s something about a crisp, colorful salad that makes a meal feel complete—especially one that comes together in minutes but tastes like you really tried. This refreshing side salad has been a regular in my kitchen lately, and every time I make it, I’m reminded how good simple ingredients can be.

It’s juicy, crunchy, tangy, and just the right amount of creamy. The kind of salad that doesn’t just sit on the side—it steals the spotlight.

🛒 What You’ll Need:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup corn (fresh off the cob or canned and drained)

• ½ cucumber, diced

• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ avocado, diced (optional, but adds that buttery richness)

• ⅓ cup feta cheese, crumbled

• Olive oil

• Balsamic vinegar

• Salad seasoning of your choice (Italian, Greek, or a DIY blend)

• Salt & pepper to taste

🥗 How to Make It:

1. Prep the Veggies
   Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and avocado, slice the red onion thin, and crumble the feta if it isn’t already.

2. Mix It Up
   In a big bowl, toss together the corn, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, avocado (if using), and feta.

3. Season
   Sprinkle your favorite salad seasoning over the bowl. Add a pinch of salt and pepper—just enough to bring everything to life.

4. Dress It Up
   Drizzle with a good glug of olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Toss gently to coat everything without smashing the avocado.

5. Serve or Chill
   You can serve it right away, or pop it in the fridge for 10–15 minutes so the flavors have a chance to mingle.

This one goes with everything: grilled chicken, tacos, pasta, or just on its own for a light lunch. Want to bulk it up? Throw in some quinoa or chickpeas and call it a meal.

I decided to pair my salad with some grilled chicken and a side of my homemade tzatziki.

Let me know if you try it—or how you make it your own!

Thanks for reading Airiel’s Substack! Subscribe for free for more real-life recipes and kitchen inspiration delivered straight to your inbox.

A Simple Breakfast That Hits Every Note: Egg Avocado Toast with Chili Olive Oil
There’s something deeply satisfying about starting the day with a breakfast that feels both indulgent and wholesome. This egg avocado toast has become one of my favorite go-to meals—not just because it’s quick, but because it hits that perfect balance of creamy, crispy, spicy, and savory.

This morning, I whipped up a version that I just had to share. It’s simple, but the little touches—like the chili olive oil drizzle—make it feel a bit special. Here's how to make it:

🛒 What You’ll Need:

• 1 egg

• 1 slice of bread, toasted

• ½ ripe avocado

• Olive oil

• Chili flakes

• Garlic powder

🍳 How to Make It:

1. Toast the Bread
   Pop your bread into the toaster while you start cooking your egg. I like a hearty, crusty slice—something that holds up well to all the toppings.

2. Cook the Egg
   I go for an over-easy egg, flipping it just briefly so it’s cooked on both sides but still has a soft center. Of course, you can prepare it however you like—sunny-side up, poached, or scrambled works too.

3. Mash the Avocado
   In a small bowl, mash the avocado with a pinch of garlic powder and a tiny sprinkle of salt if you like. Keep it chunky or go smooth—your choice.

4. Assemble
   Spread the mashed avocado onto your toasted bread, top it with your egg, and then...

5. Drizzle That Chili Olive Oil
   Mix a bit of olive oil with chili flakes (and let it sit for a few minutes if you have time). Drizzle generously over the top. The heat and richness take everything to the next level.

Add a squeeze of lemon, some fresh herbs, or even a sprinkle of feta if you're feeling extra.

Let me know if you give it a try—or how you put your own spin on it.

Stay tuned for more upcoming inspiration in the kitchen.

1. Cultural adjustment:

   Adapting to a new culture can be very challenging. Differences in lifestyle, customs, and language barriers might lead to feelings of isolation or homesickness. Culture shock is definitely a real thing but it’s temporary.

2. Learning the language may be difficult:

   Learning a new language is not impossible but it may be very difficult. I took a few language courses in the beginning on my aupair journey but it wasn’t enough for me to have that included feeling. I often felt very left out.

3. Workload and responsibilities:

   The job can be demanding, with long hours and various responsibilities that may include childcare, housework, and meal preparation. Balancing these tasks can be stressful, especially without sufficient time off. I luckily had enough time off, but I can personally say I would find myself a little overwhelmed at times with things that needed to be done around the house.

4. Family Dynamics and Compatibility: Not every match with a host family may be ideal. Differences in parenting styles, expectations, or personality clashes can lead to tension and dissatisfaction. For some aupairs everything seems to work out perfectly. From time to time I did tend to butt heads with my host parents.

5. Financial Considerations: While au pairs may receive compensation in the form of a stipend, it may not be enough to cover personal expenses, travel, or savings, particularly in more expensive countries.

6. Emotional Challenges: Being far from home and experiencing new environments can lead to emotional challenges, including loneliness or anxiety, particularly if you're not well-prepared for the transition.

Feeling homesick? Well, you’re not alone! Moving to a foreign country for your au-pair year, that homesick feeling is bound to happen. During my second day in Germany as an au pair, homesickness hit me hard, and it only intensified as I began to experience culture shock. A foreign country, a language I couldn’t understand, and a city that i’d be calling home for the next year — it was all a lot to take in at once.As someone who has personally experienced the pangs of homesickness with over 5,000 miles between me and my loved ones, I’d like to share some tips that helped me overcome those feelings.

1. Call Your loved ones:

   It might seem obvious, but staying connected is one of the easiest ways to combat homesickness."I’m just a call away” is what my mother would always tell me anytime I called her and complained about feeling homesick. So make those regular video calls or schedule chats with your family and friends back home or even set times to connect so you have something to look forward to.

2. Write postcards to your loved ones: Sending postcards or letters can be a fun and rewarding experience. There’s something special about receiving mail that can lift your spirits and strengthen your connection with home.

3. Create a comfortable space for yourself:

   Personalize your room with photos, mementos, or decorations that make you feel comfortable and more at home.

4. Establish a routine:

   Creating a daily routine can help you feel more settled. Include activities outside of your aupair duties that you enjoy, such as exercise, hobbies, or downtime, to provide structure to your day.

5. Explore Your Surroundings:

   Use your free time to explore your city or town. Finding local cafes, parks, or attractions can help you feel more connected to your new environment. Starbucks was my go-to spot whenever I felt homesick; enjoying a coffee there made me feel more at home.

6. Learn the local language:

   If you’re in a country where a different language is spoken, making an effort to learn the language can boost your confidence and help you integrate. Initially, I wasn’t motivated to learn German since I could get by with English, but my host mother encouraged me. The more I learned, the more included I felt.

7. Stay Positive:

   Keep a journal to reflect on your experiences and the positive aspects of your stay. Acknowledging the good moments can help shift your perspective.

8. Engage with Your Host Family:

   Take the time to get to know your host family. I’m naturally not the most outgoing person, so it took me a while to warm up to them. However, spending time together, participating in family activities, and communicating openly about your feelings can foster a sense of belonging. The closer you get to your host family, the easier it will become to adjust.

9. Set Goals for Your Stay: Focus on specific goals you want to achieve during your time as an au pair, such as learning a new skill or exploring a certain number of local sites. Having something to work towards can give you purpose.

10. Be Patient with Yourself: Understand that feeling homesick is a normal part of the adjustment process. Give yourself time to acclimate, and don’t be too hard on yourself.

The feeling of homesickness will always come and go and Some days will be better than others, but don’t worry you will conquer this! By embracing these strategies, you can make your time as an au pair more enjoyable and fulfilling. It’s all about finding a balance between cherishing your roots and embracing new experiences. I wish you nothing but the best off luck !

-Your

Airiel

Now, you may be wondering, what exactly is an "FSJ"?

It is a 12-month program (which, in some cases, can be extended) that provides valuable experience in the social sector, often leading to further opportunities in social professions or education. An FSJ primarily focuses on social services, such as work in hospitals, nursing homes, childcare centers, and social organizations.

My FSJ took place in a first-grade classroom as a teacher's assistant for children with disabilities. I worked essentially a full-time job and received 450 euros per month, along with room and board in a shared flat with other FSJ participants. If we’re being honest here 450 euros a month really isn’t that much, but somehow I made ends meet and you will too.

In Germany, an FSJ is a good starting point for laying the foundation for further education ,as well as a valuable addition to your resume if you're considering staying in Germany or starting any kind of “Ausbildung” or internship. So if you know you want to stay in Germany but aren’t sure how then here is your answer.

Becoming an au pair is an exciting opportunity to live abroad, immerse yourself in a new culture, and gain valuable experience working with children. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to become an au pair:

1. Understand the Role

• Responsibilities: As an au pair, you'll typically help with childcare, which can include tasks like preparing meals for children, helping with homework, playing with them, and light housework related to the children. ( In addition to the responsibilities mentioned above, I was also tasked with walking the children to and from school and occasionally accompanying them to soccer practice.)

• Living Arrangements: You'll live with the host family and usually have your own room. Meals are typically provided. ( I had my own room on the top floor of the house, which included a private bathroom and a small kitchen. However, I rarely used the kitchen since I mostly ate with my host family.)

• Compensation: Au pairs receive a weekly or monthly stipend, which varies by country, and may also get other benefits like language classes or travel costs. (I was given a monthly stipend of 260 Euros, my bus ticket for the year was paid, and a couple language courses were also paid for by my guest family.)

2. Check Eligibility

• Age: Most countries require au pairs to be between 18-30 years old, though this can vary.

• Language Skills: You may need to have basic language skills in the country’s official language, although this varies by location. (For Germany a level A1.1 was required. Although I knew deep down that my German was far from A1.1 level and I only knew basic phrases like "hello" and "goodbye," I still managed to obtain my visa to become an au pair. If my au pair family is reading this, sorry for the false advertisement lol)

• Experience: Some families prefer candidates with prior childcare experience. ( I had a history of babysitting prior to being an au pair and that really helped me find a family because Parents feel reassured knowing that you already have some experience caring for children.) Health: You'll need to be in good health, and some countries require a medical check.

3. Choose a Destination

• Research countries where you want to work. Popular destinations include the USA, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Australia. ( If i’m being honest, I had no idea what country I wanted to do this whole au pair thing in. I selected multiple countries in Europe and looked for a family that caught my eye the most. That’s how I ended up choosing my destination)

• Consider the visa requirements, cultural differences, language, and the availability of au pair programs.

4. Find an Au Pair Agency or Platform

• Agencies: Many aspiring au pairs use agencies to help find a host family and assist with visa and other logistics. 

• Online Platforms: Websites like AuPairWorld, GreatAuPair, or AuPair.com allow you to create a profile and connect directly with families. ( I used AupairWorld. I created a profile in the evening and the next morning I already had families messaging me.)

5. Create a Profile

• Highlight your experience with children, language skills, hobbies, and why you want to become an au pair.

• Upload photos and a video introduction if possible.

• Be honest about your expectations and what you’re looking for in a host family.

6. Search for Host Families

• Use your chosen agency or platform to search for families.

• Review family profiles carefully, and look for a family that matches your personality, interests, and expectations.

7. Interview with Families

• Conduct video calls with potential host families to discuss your role, the family's expectations, and living arrangements.

• Ask questions about the children’s routines, your schedule, and any cultural aspects you should be aware of. ( Don’t be shy…Questions, Questions, Questions, make sure to ask a ton of them because you want to make sure you’ll be happy with this family. After all, you’ll be spending the next 6 months - 1 year with them.)

• Ensure you feel comfortable with the family’s lifestyle and parenting style.

8. Finalize the Agreement

• Once you've found a match, sign an au pair agreement outlining your duties, working hours, stipend, and any additional benefits. ( A contract was provided by AupairWorld and was signed by the both my guest parents and myself. On this contract were things such as my pay, hours i’ll be working in a week, my au pair duties, ect..)

• Make sure the agreement complies with the regulations of the host country.

9. Apply for a Visa

• The visa process varies depending on the country. Some countries have specific au pair visas, while others may use a work or cultural exchange visa.

• Your agency or the host family can often assist with this process.

10. Prepare for Departure

• Book your flights and plan your travel to the host country.

• Pack appropriately for your stay, considering the climate and duration of your stay.

• Research the culture, customs, and basic language phrases of your host country.

11. Orientation and Adjustment

• Some agencies offer orientation programs upon arrival to help you adjust to your new environment.

• Be open-minded, patient, and proactive in adapting to your new home and role.

12. Maintain Open Communication

• Regularly communicate with your host family to ensure a positive relationship.

• Address any issues or concerns early to avoid misunderstandings.

13. Enjoy the Experience

• Make the most of your time as an au pair by exploring the country, making new friends, and learning as much as you can from the experience.

Becoming an au pair is a significant commitment, it takes a lot of courage to move to a foreign country on your own. I moved to Germany for my au pair year when I was just 19. I definitely experienced culture shock and felt homesick, often crying because I missed my family and because everything felt so different. However, in the long run, it was an incredible experience. It opened my eyes to a new side of the world, helped me mature, introduced me to a different culture, and allowed me to make new friends, among many other things. Like they say, “You only live once”, and indeed we do. So don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.

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Today marks exactly one month and a week since I have been here. The days have been going by really fast. This weekend my host family and I will be moving a couple houses down into a completely new remodeled 4 story house. There’s many things to be looking forward to, like having my own floor in the new house. It’s already December here which is very exciting! I can feel the weather changing...

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