Austin Carter

Howdy! I'm Austin Carter, a photographer who loves to cook. During the day, I take pictures, but at night, I dive into the world of flavors and recipes. You'll often find me experimenting in the kitchen, blending flavors, and creating delightful concoctions. I run the "Beyond the Bayou Blog," where I share easy and tasty recipes every day.

My blog focuses on cooking, bringing you simple and delicious meals. From quick dinners to special treats, each recipe is made with care and shared with joy.

Come join me in the kitchen through "Beyond the Bayou Blog," where cooking is simple, fun, and full of flavor. Let's enjoy the tasty side of life together!

There’s something about a silky, old-fashioned custard pie that feels like home. This vegan version keeps all the creamy nostalgia without eggs or dairy, using silken tofu and coconut milk for a smooth, luscious texture. A touch of vanilla and nutmeg gives it warmth, while brown sugar on top adds a subtle caramelized finish. Served …

These chicken meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and super easy to make. Packed with Parmesan, garlic, and a touch of black pepper, they come together in just 40 minutes — perfect for a quick dinner or party appetizer. Whether you toss them in marinara, add them to pasta, or pair them with a Cajun dipping sauce, …

There’s nothing like a good tuna salad to bring you back to the bayou. This Tuna Salad with Chopped Eggs is creamy, crunchy, and packed with flavor — ready in just 10 minutes! The combo of tuna, chopped eggs, crisp celery, and tangy pickles gives it the perfect balance of textures and taste. A touch …

Nothing beats a good shrimp Caesar salad—fresh, crisp, and packed with bold flavors. This version takes the classic up a notch with juicy, seasoned shrimp, crispy bacon, and a creamy homemade dressing with just the right zing. It’s quick, easy, and feels like something you’d order at a nice spot on the bayou, but you …

There’s nothing like the smell of seafood hitting a hot grill, especially when it’s fresh Gulf shrimp and plump scallops sizzling over an open flame. These Grilled Scallops and Shrimp Kabobs are all about simple, bold flavors—sweet shrimp, buttery scallops, and a citrusy marinade with just the right kick of spice. A quick grill gives …

There’s something about a good chowder that feels like home, and this Chicken Corn Chowder is just that—rich, creamy, and full of comfort. Smoky bacon, sweet corn, and hearty potatoes make every spoonful satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that warms you up on a cool Louisiana evening. Growing up near the bayou, fresh corn …

This Low Carb Broccoli Cauliflower Salad with Bacon is crisp, creamy, and packed with bold flavors. Fresh broccoli and cauliflower bring the crunch, while smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and a tangy dressing pull it all together. It’s the perfect keto-friendly side for cookouts, potlucks, or meal prep. Growing up near the bayou, I learned that …

The sizzle of chicken hitting a hot pan, the sharp citrusy zing of fresh lime, and the aroma of garlic and cumin—this Cilantro Lime Chicken is magic in a skillet. Juicy chicken thighs soak up a zesty marinade, then sear to golden perfection. It’s fresh, simple, and packed with flavor, perfect for a quick dinner …

Nothing says Laissez les bons temps rouler like a table full of love and good food. Whether it’s a romantic bayou picnic or a cozy meal at home, these Valentine’s lunch recipes bring rich flavors, comforting textures, and a little Louisiana soul. Think buttery seafood, slow-simmered sauces, crisp greens, and indulgent bites—fancy yet effortless. One …

A plate of heart-shaped cookies, dusted with powdered sugar like fresh snow along the bayou, catching the soft afternoon light. In Louisiana, making cookies isn’t just about flavor—it’s about capturing the perfect shot, too. Whether you’re baking these sweet treats for your loved ones or snapping photos for your next post, there’s something special about …