A Year-Round Guide to Franklin and Nantahala

Yield: 10 to 12 servings. 12 ounces bittersweet chocolate chips, 70% cacao ⅓ cup dried apricots, cut into small bits ⅓ cup dried cranberries ½ cup pistachios, coarsely chopped ½

Rosemary and Goat Cheese Strata

Yield: 10 to 12 servings. 12 ounces bittersweet chocolate chips, 70% cacao ⅓ cup dried apricots, cut into small bits ⅓ cup dried cranberries ½ cup pistachios, coarsely chopped ½

Sweet & Salty Dark Chocolate Pistachio Bark

Yield: 10 to 12 servings.

12 ounces bittersweet chocolate chips, 70% cacao
⅓ cup dried apricots, cut into small bits
⅓ cup dried cranberries
½ cup pistachios, coarsely chopped
½ teaspoon flake salt

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a double boiler over medium heat, melt chocolate chips for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Pour melted chocolate onto the baking sheet and spread evenly, making sure to get into the corners.

Immediately sprinkle apricots, cranberries, and pistachios over the melted chocolate, followed by the flake salt.

Place baking sheet in refrigerator for 1 hour.

Remove baking sheet from the refrigerator and, using your hands or a kitchen hammer, break the bark into bite-size pieces.

Place on a platter or in individual clear bags for guests.

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This story was published on Sep 16, 2025

Lynn Wells

Lynn Wells gained a fond respect and interest in cooking from her mother and Aunt Addie at the age of 8 in North Carolina. During college, Wells worked in a wide range of restaurants, from fine dining to family- owned. After graduating from UNC Greensboro with a degree in nutrition management and hospitality, Wells began a 21-year career in the nutrition department at Cone Health. In 2014, Wells started Thyme Well Spent Personal Chef Service, an in-home cooking experience for private clients, which continues today. Wells is also a food writer, food stylist, culinary consultant, and the recipe developer/writer for Our State.