We all know the bit about April showers, but the origin of the phrase is debated. Some say it comes from a poem by Thomas Tusser. Others say we imported it from the UK, where April is a soggy month due to the weather patterns. The metaphorical meaning, of course, is to look at the positive side of a situation—after a long run of rain, pretty flowers will bloom.

In honor of “April showers,” I invite you on a culinary journey. This collection features an array of recipes tailored for rainy days, ranging from comforting classics to quirky creations designed to uplift even the dreariest of moods. They’ll offer a ray of sunshine amidst the soggiest downpours.