Read, Eat, Go: “Tehrangeles," Tuscan Turkey Sandwich, and Scottsdale

EDITOR’S NOTE

Happy Saturday. The only thing better than the new season of “The Bear”? Yes, these “adult Capri Sun” drinks. But also, watching the internet collectively swoon over Ayo Edebiri, who magically makes everything look cool, including this Laura Ashley-esque padded duvet dress (which, as the name implies, looks like a duvet). Someone else who makes everything look cool? Justin Bieber…at least, when it comes to women’s footwear. Speaking of things I never saw coming, sequined whale tails are having a deeply unsettling resurgence. To help my millennial eyes recover from those images, I’ll be making a special trip to Costco this weekend, solely to nab these in-demand Japanese ice cream cookie bars. Though, I might have to grab a box of the new Crumbl cookie cereal too. That is, if there’s any left. 

— Taylor Trudon / Writer, Culture & Lifestyle / Brooklyn, NY

“Tehrangeles” by Porochista Khakpour

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What do you get when you combine a wealthy Iranian-American family living in an LA McMansion, a microwaveable snack empire, and a reality TV show? “Tehrangeles” by Porochista Khakpour. Accurately described as “the Kardashians meet ‘Little Women’ and ‘Crazy Rich Asians,’” the wildly entertaining novel follows the Milanis, who are about to film their own reality TV series when they realize their biggest secrets are about to be exposed to the world…before cameras even start rolling. Expect plenty of sharp satire and hilariously accurate observations about the ultra-rich in this pop culture fan’s dream read. We asked Khakpour a few questions. Here’s what she had to say…

Q: You’re stranded on a desert island and can only eat one thing. What would it be?

Khakpour: If I could survive on Dole Whip alone, I would. Otherwise, Ghormeh Sabzi, a nutrient-rich Persian herb and kidney bean stew.

Q: What’s your favorite unapologetic indulgence?

Khakpour: Long Aprés Gel-X nails, especially when I am not on a big writing deadline.

Q: What’s your shortcut to relaxation?

Khakpour: Delusional levels of avoidant behavior and carb-loading — but not to run a marathon, just to sleep/nap really deeply.

This Is the Only Sandwich You Should Be Making This Summer

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We’re no scientists, but sandwiches just hit different when eaten at the beach — particularly when it’s Cooking With Cocktail Rings’s Tuscan Turkey Sandwich. Not only does it have a variety of flavors and textures (think: fluffy focaccia, roasted red peppers, fresh pesto, sun-dried tomato mayo), but all of the ingredients are assembled in the optimal ratios and order, so you get a bit of everything in each bite. No wonder you’ll also want to make it for pool days, kids’ camp lunches, and lazy weeknight dinners. It’s that good.

The Time Commitment: As long as you use freshly sliced deli meat and store-bought pesto, this sort of recipe doesn’t involve cooking so much as assembly — which can be done in about 15 minutes.

Key Tips: You can tailor this recipe to your taste or what you have on hand. Swap spinach for arugula or other greens. Replace bell peppers with thinly sliced tomatoes. And for a more traditional Tuscan sandwich, use roasted chicken breasts. Also, if you’re eating at home, it tastes as delicious served hot — just use a panini press or cast iron skillet for crispy, melty cheese.

Other Takes: While this is our sandwich of the summer, other honorable mentions include: Pan Bagnat (essentially, niçoise salad in sandwich form); this sweet, salty, and slightly spicy Peach and Prosciutto Sandwich; and this Caesar Club Sandwich — which we consider a top 10 food mash-up. Looking for something vegetarian? Consider this Halloumi, Arugula, and Tomato Sandwich or this Green Goddess Caprese Sandwich, which puts a tangy twist on the Italian classic. And, of course, you can never go wrong with a Classic Italian Sub Sandwich.

This Arizona City Has Something for Everyone

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Travelers tend to head to southwestern hotspots like Scottsdale, Arizona in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. Temperatures may be milder then, but summer visitors are rewarded with fewer crowds — plus seasonal discounts on hotels and activities. Making now a great time to check out this Sonoran Desert city at the foot of the McDowell Mountains. Just don’t forget a camera because the jaw-dropping natural beauty deserves a spot on your IG grid.

🛏 At the risk of sounding pushy, you simply have to stay at The Andaz Resort and Bungalows. It’s a stone’s throw from downtown Scottsdale, but it covers 23 acres, which gives it a private, peaceful feel. That’s emphasized by the resort’s proximity to nature — it’s just a few miles to can’t-miss hiking trails.

🛶 There are eight lakes and rivers within an hour’s drive of Scottsdale, which means plenty of opportunities to get out on the water. Hit up Salt River for tubing or a kayaking tour. Want something a little lower impact? The Scottsdale Quarter has a beautiful pop-jet fountain that’s perfect for kids (and adults) to splash in. 

🎈 Check off a major bucket list item with a hot air balloon ride. Whether you ride at sunrise or sunset, the desert views are stunning from way up there. You can go on a group ride or book a private one for you and your people. And if the experience changes you forever? Don’t say we didn’t warn you.

🎆 For a different kind of beauty, check out the immersive art installations (and signature cocktails) at Wonderspaces. Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home and laboratory, is also worth a stop. Last but not least: The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art is full of treasures — and housed in a former movie theater.

Psst…itching to book a trip, like, right now? Same. Plan your perfect itinerary and we’ll see you there.*

We asked you to vote on an etiquette question you’d like answered. The winner was:

Q: I’m attending an expensive destination wedding. Do I have to buy a gift for the bride and groom?

“It’s always customary to give the couple a gift, even if [it costs a lot to] attend the wedding. But the couple should keep in mind that an expensive wedding places a financial burden on their guests, so gifts in the $50 to $150 range are ideal. 

[If even that’s a stretch], a heartfelt handwritten card that expresses your congratulations is a nice personal touch … [Or, perhaps, you can make something that they can] hold on to for years to come as a keepsake. If you have certain skills or a talent, you could also offer to help [with something related to the wedding] or the organizing, cleaning, and packing afterwards. You don’t have to spend a lot, but giving yourself and your time could mean a lot.”

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Burnt (out) to a crisp

Sound familiar? Women are more likely than men to label their job as stressful and overwhelming. If that stress becomes chronic, it can damage more than your productivity at work. Think high blood pressure, a weakened immune system, and other conditions. 

Enter Skimm Well. Our weekly health newsletter offers expert-backed advice on topics like how to lessen your mental load and scripts on how to navigate difficult conversations like setting boundaries at work. Plus, every week you’ll get the most up-to-date health news and wellness trends to keep you in the know. Succeeding in your career shouldn’t cost you your health.