There was only one Dolly Parton—sparkling, sincere, wonderfully witty and always unmistakably Southern. This month, Unconditionally Her is honoring Dolly’s extraordinary legacy in one of the most fitting ways we know: by gathering around the table and preparing recipes inspired by the food, family and traditions she treasured.

Our celebration takes us into the pages of Good Lookin’ Cookin’, the cookbook Dolly created with her sister, Rachel Parton George. Published in 2024, the book features more than 80 recipes, family stories and menus for occasions throughout the year.More than a collection of dishes, it is an invitation to pull up a chair and experience the warmth, laughter and sisterly affection that made the Parton kitchen so special. Penguin Random House describes it as a year of meals, friends and fun with the Parton sisters.

A Martini with a Southern Twist

We are beginning with Dolly Parton’s Dirt Road Martini, one of her favorite cocktails—and it is every bit as distinctive as the woman who inspired it.

This is not your typical martini. Vodka is combined with unsweetened iced tea, giving the drink its warm amber color and an unmistakable taste of the South. A splash of Italian giardiniera brine adds a delightfully savory bite, while Spanish Queen olives and colorful pickled vegetables create a garnish with plenty of personality.

It is elegant without being fussy, familiar with just enough surprise and a little unconventional in the best possible way. In other words, it feels wonderfully Dolly.

More Than a Recipe

Food was never simply food in Dolly’s world. It carried memories of growing up in Tennessee, the closeness of a large family and the generosity of feeding the people she loved. Through Good Lookin’ Cookin’, Dolly and Rachel preserved those memories while reminding us that cooking does not have to be perfect or overly serious. It should bring people together. It should create joy. And, as Dolly would surely insist, it should always be good lookin’.

So, pour Dolly Parton’s Dirt Road Martini, settle into a comfortable chair and raise your glass to a woman whose music lifted us, whose generosity changed lives and whose beautiful spirit made the world feel a little brighter.

Here’s to Dolly—to her humor, her heart, her unforgettable legacy and the stories that will continue to be shared wherever people gather.

Dolly’s Dirt Road Martini

Yield: 1 cocktail
Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
  2. Pour in the vodka, unsweetened iced tea and giardiniera brine.
  3. Stir well until the cocktail is thoroughly chilled.
  4. Fill a lowball or rocks glass with fresh ice.
  5. Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass.
  6. Thread the olives and colorful giardiniera vegetables onto a cocktail pick. Place it across the rim of the glass and serve immediately.

Karen’s Note

For the prettiest presentation, choose colorful pieces of cauliflower, red pepper and carrot for the garnish. Taste the giardiniera brine before mixing—the saltiness and spice can vary by brand.