5 Weeknight Dinners from Trader Joe's

Since I have literally no time most days and need to have something on the table at dinner, I am grateful to have Trader Joe's about two minutes away. We're not big takeout people, I always feel overly full and like I could have made that better myself afterwards. There are a few staples I know I can rely on for a dinner that takes me under 20 minutes from start to finish and for prepared food and a very affordable price, they are quite delicious.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe7_GJFeTNCi60luGxXJZYjN7K3S22cUu7GTAa4p8wjndchwJf-rFjS3XuoSLX_Y92rDWt_T7BWgRHxh1UB-VZcZ4xWkVCH-N2Clmq77WCWTKKSMd_OtV0zjjCisJ2kqnyvzRmCC513sn-/s1600/97908_japanese_fried_rice2.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe7_GJFeTNCi60luGxXJZYjN7K3S22cUu7GTAa4p8wjndchwJf-rFjS3XuoSLX_Y92rDWt_T7BWgRHxh1UB-VZcZ4xWkVCH-N2Clmq77WCWTKKSMd_OtV0zjjCisJ2kqnyvzRmCC513sn-/s400/97908_japanese_fried_rice2.jpg" width="270" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> I usually add chicken and extra soy-sauce to make these a complete meal. Big Brian LOVES it, I personally am not a big stir-fry person in general but this works in a pinch.</div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGDJsRt8KSKfyBiDtdKY0WAtCGS0R624Z6R33E57FSAAgpCqtIh52d1fnszfRcvw2heDKqYIpN_TOajjyG0eLuca1AvIKsVnwb3d1O7ofSVQjvAlAXfRbZl2drePv-Rj8Rv8uethuXkhw6/s1600/64873-grilled-chicken-strips.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGDJsRt8KSKfyBiDtdKY0WAtCGS0R624Z6R33E57FSAAgpCqtIh52d1fnszfRcvw2heDKqYIpN_TOajjyG0eLuca1AvIKsVnwb3d1O7ofSVQjvAlAXfRbZl2drePv-Rj8Rv8uethuXkhw6/s400/64873-grilled-chicken-strips.png" width="400" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> These already grilled chicken strips make for a super quick taco night. I also purchase their fresh salsa, tortilla, lettuce, mexican shredded cheese, and guac. Easy peasy! </div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFzDTAZ6B12KJfDct1b7v4mOQCQgAvAhtbEm42RslS9wXBgPCgl8444HIV4bAgV3Idv2-fjTmkdPzOKQXOKLW4PBcBTkAj9JbPSemSpl2_uj2Xwh8EI1vI28hGvaTEOWNOL_ALI-Ft56n3/s1600/94161-turkey-bolognese.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFzDTAZ6B12KJfDct1b7v4mOQCQgAvAhtbEm42RslS9wXBgPCgl8444HIV4bAgV3Idv2-fjTmkdPzOKQXOKLW4PBcBTkAj9JbPSemSpl2_uj2Xwh8EI1vI28hGvaTEOWNOL_ALI-Ft56n3/s400/94161-turkey-bolognese.jpg" width="300" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br />This is remarkably good for prepared sauce. Top it with freshly grated parmesan cheese over spaghetti and you're good!</div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigWqIUT15tHxwy8Nu5jd6CbILyKLRXHrm_oH59-y8W6HMb_nY-6npYzevZrdXpyh1BSPDWDm_Fi2hFCcE4ANXG50jt4jRYVSQhwy6jeVHOSmL9t3ICkp-i3RXB_sCrpI1o6TkKbgQIx6YA/s1600/97661-Chicken-Piccata.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigWqIUT15tHxwy8Nu5jd6CbILyKLRXHrm_oH59-y8W6HMb_nY-6npYzevZrdXpyh1BSPDWDm_Fi2hFCcE4ANXG50jt4jRYVSQhwy6jeVHOSmL9t3ICkp-i3RXB_sCrpI1o6TkKbgQIx6YA/s400/97661-Chicken-Piccata.png" width="342" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> We actually had this last night, and we both enjoyed it. I served it with Haricot Vert and an arugula salad and it was ready in under 20 minutes.</div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhOfaGmgjlUQ6bLJPEUMSxoJMkR9ojR_-Gv2ta1vzV0_Z1SxAT92MvuYJZ4gB-IxHK71-TqLguzUF3fx5xhDXBlGYNkos2IzDH8c_i1GYg5NTSl_ojD9027_rfM6xFSwTTdGXwp-z2cjV_/s1600/quattro-formaggi-pizza.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="393" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhOfaGmgjlUQ6bLJPEUMSxoJMkR9ojR_-Gv2ta1vzV0_Z1SxAT92MvuYJZ4gB-IxHK71-TqLguzUF3fx5xhDXBlGYNkos2IzDH8c_i1GYg5NTSl_ojD9027_rfM6xFSwTTdGXwp-z2cjV_/s400/quattro-formaggi-pizza.png" width="400" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Love this pizza! It's so easy and I keep it stocked in the freezer for a quick dinner. I usually top it with fresh ingredients like arugula, a little extra parmesan, proscuitto, etc..</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> There you have it! Our super simple weeknight dinner low down from Trader Joe's. Give these a try when you don't have time or just don't feel like cooking a.k.a me every night. </div> <br />

RECIPES

5 Weeknight Dinners from Trader Joe's

Since I have literally no time most days and need to have something on the table at dinner, I am grateful to have Trader Joe's about two...

Homemade Valentine's Day Dinner - The Perfect Spaghetti & Meatball Recipe

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizD3pes_5wT3J0AGeBh5qCqKByN_q0jBlxr2Fi94614g5C67dANct_Z-G5yW645B_q8bjdDN7mvFWeW92pAPL3PXJTteW4eVigC7h3rzxv-k56alpa0eHh7_le3_N5HlJJ3VYGmCOxUuqv/s1600/maxresdefault.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizD3pes_5wT3J0AGeBh5qCqKByN_q0jBlxr2Fi94614g5C67dANct_Z-G5yW645B_q8bjdDN7mvFWeW92pAPL3PXJTteW4eVigC7h3rzxv-k56alpa0eHh7_le3_N5HlJJ3VYGmCOxUuqv/s640/maxresdefault.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> I'm a firm believer that one of the greatest ways to show your love for someone is by cooking them a nice homemade meal, and what's more romantic (and delicious) than a classic like spaghetti and meatballs? There are so many variations but this is the recipe I use...and nail every time. </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> For the meatballs:</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <ul> <li style="text-align: left;">1 lb. of 85% ground beef</li> <li style="text-align: left;">1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs</li> <li style="text-align: left;">1 cup of either freshly grated parmesan cheese</li> <li style="text-align: left;">2 cloves of finely chopped garlic </li> <li style="text-align: left;">1 large egg</li> <li style="text-align: left;">1 teaspoon salt</li> <li style="text-align: left;">about 1/2 cup of the prepared sauce (read on)</li> </ul> <div style="text-align: left;"> Here is what you do:</div> <ul> <li style="text-align: left;">Preheat your oven to 350 degrees</li> <li style="text-align: left;">Mix all of these ingredients together and roll balls into whatever size you desire, and place on a parchment lined cookie sheet</li> <li style="text-align: left;">Place the cookie sheet in the oven and bake until the meatballs are cooked through, around 20/25 minutes</li> <li style="text-align: left;">Add them to your sauce (below) and leave in there until you're ready to serve</li> </ul> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> For the sauce: </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <ul> <li style="text-align: left;">Two 28 oz. cans of either San Marzano plum tomatoes with their liquid OR Hunts plum tomatoes *I've tried many different brands and these are the only ones I like</li> <li style="text-align: left;">1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil</li> <li style="text-align: left;">1 medium finely chopped onion</li> <li style="text-align: left;">5-10 basil leaves</li> <li style="text-align: left;">salt and freshly ground pepper</li> </ul> <br /> <div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Here is what you do:</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <ul> <li style="text-align: left;">Sauté your onion in olive oil until translucent</li> <li style="text-align: left;">Pour in tomatoes and blend to a sauce consistency with a smart stick (right in the pot you're using to cook the sauce. I use a Le Creuset dutch oven)</li> <li style="text-align: left;">Season with basil, salt and pepper and let it come to a boil. </li> <li style="text-align: left;">Once it's boiled for about 10 minutes, lower the heat so the sauce can simmer until your ready to eat, at least 30 minutes. You can add the meatballs as soon as the sauce is boiled. Leave them in there on simmer until you're ready to serve</li> </ul> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKHN8t-tqSHC3V8KvTn3aqODKnWj2ladMIkAwS-LKdBh1AgaB8QRdebtjBpsCWp799vXVNgDBsqYGQCMbsoCx9FP0yBf4dpsqOIngW4fuUj0TbvMGQqwAgXh1CPl7NhGzc09CmQ7N5Iava/s1600/DSC_0983.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="524" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKHN8t-tqSHC3V8KvTn3aqODKnWj2ladMIkAwS-LKdBh1AgaB8QRdebtjBpsCWp799vXVNgDBsqYGQCMbsoCx9FP0yBf4dpsqOIngW4fuUj0TbvMGQqwAgXh1CPl7NhGzc09CmQ7N5Iava/s640/DSC_0983.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> This dish would be perfect to serve on Valentine's Day with a simple tossed garden salad of romaine or spring mix lettuce, balsamic vinegar and oil, a little salt and pepper AND a nice loaf of rustic bread from your local bakery. Oh, and how could I forget, a nice bottle of red.<br /> <br /> What a nice treat for your loved one, family, girlfriends, whoever! </div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div style="text-align: left;"> <span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: left;"> <span style="text-align: center;">                                                                 Bon Apétit my friends!</span></div> <br />

RECIPES

Homemade Valentine's Day Dinner - The Perfect Spaghetti & Meatball Recipe

I'm a firm believer that one of the greatest ways to show your love for someone is by cooking them a nice homemade meal, and what...

Hearty Winter Soup :: Sausage, White Bean & Kale

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5xh-XXreuHOMImPKkoDr5TNKeOfWlT38vRFCdSzpLCwDJ-vZWheSA-yITwzdzxTdUq5uMtQ1EDuMmFx2f_cqobaFgg86oOlhJGfpLlk0fXE_MTZW27aKEWO1aHn_KccNcZlPERa5skUdN/s1600/DSC_1201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5xh-XXreuHOMImPKkoDr5TNKeOfWlT38vRFCdSzpLCwDJ-vZWheSA-yITwzdzxTdUq5uMtQ1EDuMmFx2f_cqobaFgg86oOlhJGfpLlk0fXE_MTZW27aKEWO1aHn_KccNcZlPERa5skUdN/s640/DSC_1201.jpg" width="566" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> I'm such a bad grocery shopper, I don't plan my meals ahead so I never really know what to buy. I usually just go in and buy an assortment of food groups that good at the moment and I luck out if I can make a meal out of it without having to go back out to the store. On my last trip I did manage to buy a few cans of cannelini beans, a package of sweet sausage and a bag of fresh kale and these three ingredients were the base of an amazing soup I'm about to tell you about.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvpmvxlbYCbi4kM85TgOEielblfff0cIUs39AvbEvvWeFASkbcisNIgEqkkyh4p5KuFbvcrbN2WXA_ipGNLtb97ne_fZJBCrSNFVgxSaOfRcTX7IYfVKrdPPZYnDw_VQvptoUvybH4QhYD/s1600/DSC_1202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvpmvxlbYCbi4kM85TgOEielblfff0cIUs39AvbEvvWeFASkbcisNIgEqkkyh4p5KuFbvcrbN2WXA_ipGNLtb97ne_fZJBCrSNFVgxSaOfRcTX7IYfVKrdPPZYnDw_VQvptoUvybH4QhYD/s640/DSC_1202.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> For this sausage, white bean and kale soup, you'll need: </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> 2 cans of cannelini beans</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> 1 package of sweet sausage (about five links)</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> A bag of fresh kale</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> 1 12-oz can of diced tomatoes</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> 1-2 quartsof chicken broth</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> salt and pepper to taste</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> This soup comes together in minutes and is arguably one of the best soups I've ever pulled off.</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Here is what you do:</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Take the sausage meat out of the casings and sauté it until cooked</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Add the can of diced tomatoes </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Add 1-quart of chicken broth</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Let this come to a boil and then keep on a simmer</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> About ten minutes after, add the beans</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Let this all simmer with the lid off so the soup thickens a bit </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Taste it, add some salt and pepper to your liking</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> In a separate pot, boil some pasta to put in it when you're serving. I used mini-farfalle and they were perfect.</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> While the pasta is cooking, add a couple of handfuls of kale to your soup, not too much, you don't want it to be too "kale-y" so use your judgement here. </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Let the kale soften until it reaches a nice consistency and then you're ready to serve. If you find your liquid evaporated too much and you want more, just add some chicken broth until you get it how you want it.</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> To serve, spoon out the desired amount of pasta and then add your soup on top. </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese and some nice bread and mangia! </div>

RECIPES

Hearty Winter Soup :: Sausage, White Bean & Kale

I'm such a bad grocery shopper, I don't plan my meals ahead so I never really know what to buy. I usually just go in and buy a...

Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Coconut Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

First let me state that I'm not dairy or gluten free by any means, <i>give me alllll the butter and sugar, </i>BUT I was looking for a healthy cookie to feed my son and these little numbers did the trick. It's not that I don't want him to have dairy or gluten, but the kid needs all the nutrients he can get and I work a lot with bribery, "If you finish your macaroni and cheese and all your french fries, you can have a cookie" < insert shameful and confused face, how did we get here? > #toddlerproblems<br /> <div> <br /></div> <div> Also, I know a lot of breast-feeding mommies who are always on the hunt for dairy-free so I thought this recipe might be fun to try :)<br /> <div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguNpTo38wiWrgntJIq1Cfc1_cX7WaTwLz0D9yepD1GZ8shAcO8sKZ4HDS0jgzenLfEKb8u5lhsI0WlItOMLFtJKcCRGX8LBUwiTShlyl8_kqkGr6RQDuXzHleL9Kf4Run1b5oRCcX7BJ_z/s1600/cookies.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguNpTo38wiWrgntJIq1Cfc1_cX7WaTwLz0D9yepD1GZ8shAcO8sKZ4HDS0jgzenLfEKb8u5lhsI0WlItOMLFtJKcCRGX8LBUwiTShlyl8_kqkGr6RQDuXzHleL9Kf4Run1b5oRCcX7BJ_z/s640/cookies.png" width="406" /></a></div> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> I whipped these up one morning while I was up with Grace and the boys were sleeping (9:00 AM must be nice) and they were so easy and did not take long at all. </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <span style="text-align: center;">Here is what you need: </span><br /> <div> <span style="text-align: center;"></span><br /> <ul><span style="text-align: center;"> <li style="text-align: left;">3/4 cup oat flour (regular oats blended in a food processor until it becomes powdery like flour)</li> <li style="text-align: left;">1/2 cup old-fashioned oats</li> <li style="text-align: left;">1/4 cup quick oats</li> <li style="text-align: left;">3/4 teaspoon baking soda</li> <li style="text-align: left;">1 teaspoon cinnamon</li> <li style="text-align: left;">Pinch of salt</li> <li style="text-align: left;">1 and 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract</li> <li style="text-align: left;">1 large egg</li> <li style="text-align: left;">4 tablespoons brown sugar, lightly packed</li> <li style="text-align: left;">1/2 cup coconut oil</li> <li style="text-align: left;">1/2 cup raisins</li> </span></ul> <span style="text-align: center;"> </span> <div style="text-align: left;"> <span style="text-align: center;">Here is what you do: </span></div> <span style="text-align: center;"> </span><br /> <ul> <li><span style="text-align: center;">Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.</span></li> <li><span style="text-align: center;">In a mixing bowl, stir together the dry ingredients : oat flour, old-fashioned oats, quick oats, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.</span></li> <li><span style="text-align: center;">In another bowl, mix together vanilla extract, egg, and brown sugar. Melt the coconut oil in the microwave or on the stove top and let it cool slightly before adding to the bowl, note: make sure to measure the coconut oil after it is melted. Stir until well combined.</span></li> <li><span style="text-align: center;">Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.</span></li> <li>Add the raisins, and if you feel like adding more, go ahead! </li> <li><span style="text-align: center;">Cover the dough tightly and chill the dough for 30 minutes to an hour or until the dough has hardened enough to scoop out cookie balls. </span><span style="text-align: center;">**Important, dough must be chilled or the cookies will flatten! The coconut oil needs to firm up again in the cooling process.</span></li> <li><span style="text-align: center;">Using a cookie scoop, scoop out balls of the dough (packed super tightly) onto a parchment lined cookie sheet. </span></li> <li><span style="text-align: center;">Depending on the size, bake for 7-9 minutes or until very lightly browned around the edges. </span></li> <li><span style="text-align: center;">They will be soft and very breakable at first but they will harden after cooling.</span></li> <li><span style="text-align: center;">Remove from the oven and allow to stay on the baking sheet for another 2 minutes before removing to a wire cooling rack.</span></li> </ul> </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> I hope you like these healthy cookies - little B and I devoured them all week :) </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <i><span style="font-size: x-small;">recipe adapted from Chelsea's Messy Apron</span></i></div> </div>

RECIPES

Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Coconut Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

First let me state that I'm not dairy or gluten free by any means, give me alllll the butter and sugar,  BUT I was looking for a healthy...

Cranberry Orange Panettone French Toast

<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDwE1DMyaEjfUQXH9YlrY_f-ojpLbN0u9nN4Fj8waB8bALAGtiAINW9iCE24s1T1MDvQGfbVd9y9zN6_GouaUKc4uW64tNpgqiYlZyihFtiUXA1xdKFOpyELWY_twOJJmyIACnFeTEMRHk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-12-23+at+9.12.23+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDwE1DMyaEjfUQXH9YlrY_f-ojpLbN0u9nN4Fj8waB8bALAGtiAINW9iCE24s1T1MDvQGfbVd9y9zN6_GouaUKc4uW64tNpgqiYlZyihFtiUXA1xdKFOpyELWY_twOJJmyIACnFeTEMRHk/s640/Screen+Shot+2015-12-23+at+9.12.23+AM.png" width="456" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr> </tbody></table> <div style="text-align: center;"> My mom and dad are coming over for brunch on Christmas morning and I can't wait to make this cranberry panettone french toast. I saw the panettone at our local market and knew it would be the perfect food to serve alongside from freshly sliced oranges and perhaps a mimosa ;)</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> The recipe for french toast is so simple.</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> Ingredients: </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> Panettone (I'm using a cranberry one)</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 2 tablespoons sugar</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 4 tablespoons butter</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 4 eggs</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1/4 cup milk</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1 teaspoon orange zest </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1/2 cup maple syrup, warmed</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> Directions</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> In a small bowl, combine, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar and set aside.</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> In a 10-inch or 12-inch skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk together cinnamon mixture, eggs, milk, vanilla and orange zest and pour into bowl. Dip sliced panettone in egg mixture. </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> Fry slices until golden brown, then flip to cook the other side. </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> Serve with maple syrup (has to be the real kind, #sorrynotsorry, and fresh orange slices. </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>image via pinterest, source unfortunately unknown</i></span></div>

RECIPES

Cranberry Orange Panettone French Toast

My mom and dad are coming over for brunch on Christmas morning and I can't wait to make this cranberry panettone french toast. I sa...

The Perfect Christmas Cocktail

I've got it for you, someone had to do it. The other day I tested out various combinations for the perfect Christmas cocktail and this was by far my favorite. This little cocktail is perfect for brunch on Christmas morning, or as a before-dinner specialty on Christmas Eve/Day.<br /> <br /> You'll need a bottle of prosecco (any kind will do, you can go cheap here but I'd stick to around $10) St. Germain, cranberry juice and fresh cranberries for garnish.<br /> <br /> Simply pour in your prosecco, add a splash of St. Germain and a splash of cranberry juice, and about 3 or 4 cranberries, DELISH! If you have someone not drinking sub out the prosecco for ginger ale and you'll get the same effect, well not really but I tried.<br /> <br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5gyfTbNvlebMdMTkfjzHW1yM1Ijz5t1uHtRdgidXlU3NhIvXjBy0NophAJzQgkUBWxqAhDcs0Ch7X86EESjvORcVjUInY3xcFawM99imxU4w99ta6DIoYARxgpE6usDSobflcErH1r3en/s1600/DSC_0730.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5gyfTbNvlebMdMTkfjzHW1yM1Ijz5t1uHtRdgidXlU3NhIvXjBy0NophAJzQgkUBWxqAhDcs0Ch7X86EESjvORcVjUInY3xcFawM99imxU4w99ta6DIoYARxgpE6usDSobflcErH1r3en/s640/DSC_0730.jpg" width="542" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> I love using my vintage champagne glasses but West Elm just came out with <a href="http://bit.ly/1RBh3Vr">similar versions</a>! They're so fancy and fun to hold :) </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="shopthepost-widget" data-widget-id="1294391"> <script type="text/javascript">!function(d,s,id){var e, p = /^http:/.test(d.location) ? 'http' : 'https';if(!d.getElementById(id)) {e = d.createElement(s);e.id = id;e.src = p + '://' + 'widgets.rewardstyle.com' + '/js/shopthepost.js';d.body.appendChild(e);}if(typeof window.__stp === 'object') if(d.readyState === 'complete') {window.__stp.init();}}(document, 'script', 'shopthepost-script');</script><br /> <div class="rs-adblock"> <img onerror="this.parentNode.innerHTML='Disable your ad blocking software to view this content.'" src="//assets.rewardstyle.com/images/search/350.gif" style="height: 15px; width: 15px;" /><noscript>JavaScript is currently disabled in this browser. Reactivate it to view this content.</noscript></div> </div>

RECIPES

The Perfect Christmas Cocktail

I've got it for you, someone had to do it. The other day I tested out various combinations for the perfect Christmas cocktail and this w...

Tasty Tuesday :: Holiday Moscow Mules

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> What in the world took me so long to get into Moscow Mules??? I think part of the reason is because I've been pregnant since they became popular but the other night I was finally able to indulge and holy moly they were good! The restaurant we went to was serving up a holiday inspired one and I liked it so much, I stalked the bartender for the recipe and went out the next day to buy the ingredients. </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheW80lk0Vc7uTB8GnkWbgYJ6EM4WKGTACEE75H211iGorIRDmNgxLJW5FnA7wE2zyDFak4dxjHsIN0yC-NN8X30LpbgxsaPomhdCj0X9O-hfouwRbi21YSt4rWR4RiJzIB0tCAFeXVHMbi/s1600/AppleCiderMoscowMules-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheW80lk0Vc7uTB8GnkWbgYJ6EM4WKGTACEE75H211iGorIRDmNgxLJW5FnA7wE2zyDFak4dxjHsIN0yC-NN8X30LpbgxsaPomhdCj0X9O-hfouwRbi21YSt4rWR4RiJzIB0tCAFeXVHMbi/s640/AppleCiderMoscowMules-5.jpg" width="425" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://sugarandcharm.com/2014/09/apple-cider-moscow-mules.html/">image via</a></td></tr> </tbody></table> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> I also ordered these <a href="http://bit.ly/1T3u4oa">monogrammed copper mugs from Tuckernuck</a> for Brian and me from Santa ;)</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcDNKQZum7J6FE3LZpOhEQ_69b1GGTu0QnUvn_E0wyk4IRkkcpG7E1hpaRYDn5trhHtaY2ZzB8ENehbMm-v5T_jcCn6YLpVKG14FTNjM2aP66xI_Nwb2eVKGJHqxALBvRjZqPV6ECxpreg/s1600/a6d9040a4ce4d96c7fc90b009d9a444c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcDNKQZum7J6FE3LZpOhEQ_69b1GGTu0QnUvn_E0wyk4IRkkcpG7E1hpaRYDn5trhHtaY2ZzB8ENehbMm-v5T_jcCn6YLpVKG14FTNjM2aP66xI_Nwb2eVKGJHqxALBvRjZqPV6ECxpreg/s640/a6d9040a4ce4d96c7fc90b009d9a444c.jpg" width="425" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://sugarandcharm.com/2014/09/apple-cider-moscow-mules.html/">image via</a></td></tr> </tbody></table> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> So here is how you make the delicious holiday inspired Moscow Mule </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> 2 ounces vodka</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> 2 ounce simple syrup concoction :: 1 part water, 1 part sugar, apple slices, cinnamon sprinkle</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> juice of half of one lime</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> ginger beer (this is non-alcoholic so most grocery stores will carry it)</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Pour the vodka and simple syrup concoction over ice in a copper mug and fill the rest with ginger beer, squeeze your lime and stir around. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon and an apple wedge for show, cheers!</div>

RECIPES

Tasty Tuesday :: Holiday Moscow Mules

What in the world took me so long to get into Moscow Mules??? I think part of the reason is because I've been pregnant since they becam...

Easy Bake Pumpkin Bread

I'm here to tell you about an amazing <i>pass-off as your own</i> (or who cares) pumpkin bread that I made on halloween to get the house smelling halloween-y and I was so surprised at this boxed goodness. Seriously, there are so many good ready-to-bake mixes out there tit <i>kind of</i> makes you think twice about making things from scratch, unless of course you're in the Martha mood.<br /> <br /> This is the perfect little treat to make for your family on a saturday morning, or even to bring in muffin form to a brunch with friends or play date.<br /> <br /> It's Trader Joe's pumpkin bread mix and all you need to do is add vegetable oil, an egg, and water :) I actually used apple sauce instead of oil because I didn't have any and it was perfectly moist. When you can save on time and still make something that tastes seasonally deliciously like homemade fall, I'm game.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYCCqdvoSItCs-2ZKmld_CkqiLOD9HdZ_XgCI4nmp6qYHoKOniUdDAmWXWJbMrO9SyFiI8aMuLC_g0vKaHelv01KaspQGgRUF0jzn5hJ33i6MLYTYiBzHRB2sS7LDANTB1D1BSLGedhJqh/s1600/IMG_5282.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYCCqdvoSItCs-2ZKmld_CkqiLOD9HdZ_XgCI4nmp6qYHoKOniUdDAmWXWJbMrO9SyFiI8aMuLC_g0vKaHelv01KaspQGgRUF0jzn5hJ33i6MLYTYiBzHRB2sS7LDANTB1D1BSLGedhJqh/s640/IMG_5282.jpg" width="508" /></a></div> <br /> Have you tried any good boxed mixes that are good?? Do share!

general lifestyle, RECIPES

Easy Bake Pumpkin Bread

I'm here to tell you about an amazing pass-off as your own (or who cares) pumpkin bread that I made on halloween to get the house smell...

Mexicana Monday :: Chicken Chili

I made the BEST chicken chili over the weekend that I can't wait to share. We also happen to be in the middle of the Mexican <i>Day of the Dead</i> celebration which is a perfect excuse to let out your Mexican spirit and have a/multiple Coronas on a Monday :)<br /> <br /> <i>Sidenote: Day of the Dead is an interesting holiday celebrated in central and southern Mexico during the chilly days of November 1 & 2. Even though this coincides with the Catholic holiday called All Soul's & All Saint’s Day, the indigenous people have combined this with their own ancient beliefs of honoring their deceased loved ones.They believe that the gates of heaven are opened at midnight on October 31, and the spirits of all deceased children (angelitos) are allowed to reunite with their families for 24 hours. On November 2, the spirits of the adults come down to enjoy the festivities that are prepared for them. - Wikipedia</i><br /> <i><br /></i> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjQ11KM2WZqGM2kDAw2ViO59U_g-lKGjnoJaUN660l4QOlQdz3qaWiIbrFgnm8hvWJ4im3E-j1jqRSLi2E0ZMR9wQFqtAZSgx10135bsZCCGE9DM2nQyBnKTpgroRWZeydS8ddG9-g8WqG/s1600/chicken+chili.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjQ11KM2WZqGM2kDAw2ViO59U_g-lKGjnoJaUN660l4QOlQdz3qaWiIbrFgnm8hvWJ4im3E-j1jqRSLi2E0ZMR9wQFqtAZSgx10135bsZCCGE9DM2nQyBnKTpgroRWZeydS8ddG9-g8WqG/s640/chicken+chili.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <i><br /></i> <i><br /></i> What you need to make the chili is as follows:<br /> <br /> 1/2 a yellow onion, chopped<br /> 1 red pepper, chopped<br /> 1 green pepper, chopped<br /> 1 jalapeño pepper<br /> 1 can of kidney beans<br /> 1 can of white kidney beans, or black beans (you can really use what you have here)<br /> 1 16 oz can of diced tomatoes (I like Hunts)<br /> 1 12 oz can of chicken broth<br /> 1 bag of shredded pepper jack cheese<br /> 2 boneless chicken breasts that have been either slow-cooked or boiled for shredding into the chili<br /> Chili seasoning, salt & pepper to taste<br /> <br /> I slow-cooked the boneless chicken breasts in chicken broth in a slow cooker for 4 hours. The chicken easily shreds this way, but if you're short on time, boiling the chicken will be just as good.<br /> <br /> Get out your dutch oven and sauté the onion until translucent. Next add your red and green peppers and sauté those as well until soft(er), not mush but not crunchy either. Next, add your beans and stir. Next, add your tomatoes and chicken broth and again stir. To taste, you are going to season your chili with salt, pepper and chili seasoning (I buy this already mixed in the herb section).<br /> <br /> Now let all this come to a boil, and reduce the heat to simmer. Add your shredded chicken, and however much (if any) of the jalapeño pepper you want. I let this sit for as long as a few hours, or as little as 30 minutes. The chicken is cooked so it just a matter of letting the flavors develop, obviously the longer the better. Oh, and also, probably the most important, add the cheese! I added about a half of a bag of the shredded pepper jack. I actually didn't want to add this but hubby insisted and I'm so glad he did. It really thickened it up and added so much flavor.<br /> <br /> I served the chili with additional cheese on top, some lime for garnish, and of course, a Corona for me and the hubs.<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> Enjoy!</div>

general lifestyle, RECIPES

Mexicana Monday :: Chicken Chili

I made the BEST chicken chili over the weekend that I can't wait to share. We also happen to be in the middle of the Mexican Day of the ...

Balsamic Glazed Pot Roast with Dijon

I have heard and read about several pot roast recipes lately and was dying to give <a href="http://www.jcpenney.com/crock-pot-6-qt-countdown-touchscreen-digital-slow-cooker-5-printable-mail-in-rebate/prod.jump?ppId=pp5006170420&searchTerm=crockpot&catId=SearchResults&_dyncharset=UTF-8&colorizedImg=DP0128201517014683M.tif">my new Crock-Pot from JCPenney</a> a spin. I have never really been good at slow cookers, everything usually comes out so soupy but I killed it last night with this one. I did have to use my dutch oven to brown the meat first, so there are two steps here but the nice thing is you can leave the house without worrying about the oven or stove-top being on, and for this cut of meat, you need time.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwo6bVMxi4Bd3iPjNM19G-yd8pFmYqIgZKs9Mb4DrPG2pPWXdB-qskph6CgdxD76oYAinauOidJmInY9i2d1jjfDymmll7gPKU-1c6yJOtvZx_Z2k8ACUxEm2qtMKTLq29vWMO7djMWl_l/s1600/IMG_3838_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwo6bVMxi4Bd3iPjNM19G-yd8pFmYqIgZKs9Mb4DrPG2pPWXdB-qskph6CgdxD76oYAinauOidJmInY9i2d1jjfDymmll7gPKU-1c6yJOtvZx_Z2k8ACUxEm2qtMKTLq29vWMO7djMWl_l/s400/IMG_3838_2.jpg" width="378" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> If you grew up on them like me, you probably don't get too excited when you hear "pot-roast" but I promise you will love this hearty fall supper. The good thing about the meat is it's cheap and can feed a lot of people, it just has to be slow-cooked or it will feel like you're biting into a tire.<br /> <br /> So here is what you need to pick up from the store:<br /> <br /> 1) MEAT : From the front portion of the animal; look for chuck roast, shoulder steak, boneless chuck roast, chuck shoulder pot roast, chuck seven-bone pot roast, or beef chuck arm.<br /> <div> 2) 1 yellow onion</div> <div> 3) 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar</div> <div> 4) 3 tablespoons of a good seedy dijon mustard</div> <div> 5) 1 quart of chicken broth (though you'll probably only use half)</div> <div> 6) About 3 large carrots (not baby carrots, I have a thing about them in cooking, baby carrots are for snacking)</div> <div> 7) A bag of small potatoes like the red ones or yukon gold (but small, think golf ball size)</div> <div> <br /></div> <div> Here is what you have to do: </div> <div> <br /></div> <div> Get out your dutch oven. Set the heat on medium-high. Take out your beef and liberally salt and pepper it. Place it into the dutch oven and brown it on both sides, this seals in the juices, like this:</div> <div> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJaBz-11oPBOBQlI_D9b8ykIrch4HlmE9EQLkZHrg2fHYDF1C8k2xkcsj_OvKnGg_HT-J5HRZXdQPiR_57gKlr8y2ssWiekWn60z65I8Kowy3HS0M2og0CPBDz1CsVHUS47p3n9Vh_j1iG/s1600/IMG_4199.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJaBz-11oPBOBQlI_D9b8ykIrch4HlmE9EQLkZHrg2fHYDF1C8k2xkcsj_OvKnGg_HT-J5HRZXdQPiR_57gKlr8y2ssWiekWn60z65I8Kowy3HS0M2og0CPBDz1CsVHUS47p3n9Vh_j1iG/s400/IMG_4199.jpg" width="355" /></a></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> Next, take your meat out of the pan and put aside. Leave the residue in the pan. Chop up your onion and with a little olive oil, sauté the onion until transparent. Add your balsamic and dijon and let reduce so it becomes more like a glaze or sauce. Add your carrots and make sure they get covered with goodness. </div> <div> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5DZ3SUT5iXP7p-_KQqMLZhYO-H1qpxnbVIzW6cKqwwkr4EREDYuJxkYouWXxdKIhugOK5uDdEf-QSRfHBW9456USteK5xX_h0FE-TciKjaAq1o5bp_T2ErLkRV0ZaFgFZcmkWmfvaoLqY/s1600/IMG_4200_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5DZ3SUT5iXP7p-_KQqMLZhYO-H1qpxnbVIzW6cKqwwkr4EREDYuJxkYouWXxdKIhugOK5uDdEf-QSRfHBW9456USteK5xX_h0FE-TciKjaAq1o5bp_T2ErLkRV0ZaFgFZcmkWmfvaoLqY/s400/IMG_4200_2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> Okay you're done with oven portion. Now place your meat and balsamic-dijon reduction with the veggies into the slow-cooker. Add the potatoes and chicken broth so it reaches about half-way up like this: </div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaDVmnmYey0XGC258jB9_ajSZn4rBQgB8-2wtyfwjxrvjrYVj9_4meIEhc7r4MddBp5AirWe7ghsOsGiTWezth29nPZuk07cLJ6BfUe0ltqkGxry7ktmAOqF-n_C3t84etyIO8niCwmUsF/s1600/IMG_4202_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaDVmnmYey0XGC258jB9_ajSZn4rBQgB8-2wtyfwjxrvjrYVj9_4meIEhc7r4MddBp5AirWe7ghsOsGiTWezth29nPZuk07cLJ6BfUe0ltqkGxry7ktmAOqF-n_C3t84etyIO8niCwmUsF/s400/IMG_4202_2.jpg" width="312" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Let this cook about 5 hours on the high setting and you will have the most delicious pot roast you've ever had, at least it was the best one I ever had, as well as hubby's. Oh and I left to run errands, and came back literally smelling it from the outside.</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJiG5GPJYOZ-E47m8y-9h5NF_S0YbxREzLcllS-UGsSh7_ZUELw9Ym8en7wgKDIdK277qHzYth6RNF2dw-o9nWeQkJgHNrTl3i_rKYIoVEETUFAb8sj337AEV1Y4PZbNB_-aSB53ar-Vfo/s1600/IMG_4678.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJiG5GPJYOZ-E47m8y-9h5NF_S0YbxREzLcllS-UGsSh7_ZUELw9Ym8en7wgKDIdK277qHzYth6RNF2dw-o9nWeQkJgHNrTl3i_rKYIoVEETUFAb8sj337AEV1Y4PZbNB_-aSB53ar-Vfo/s400/IMG_4678.jpg" width="308" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_JEpq6GSLL0j9TbRW2ilD8914RYam1LePPdY5Mj5Zg8OiG7aBPuZa2eQ6bUqPlI1Yeqpa9BuyqxP7lJ7rMIUjSvpDl1Hd5gxkkaxBcd-7KIllDmXrDoY1P8M-ZWBlmdX3M7-JG2M2jUJl/s1600/IMG_4679_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_JEpq6GSLL0j9TbRW2ilD8914RYam1LePPdY5Mj5Zg8OiG7aBPuZa2eQ6bUqPlI1Yeqpa9BuyqxP7lJ7rMIUjSvpDl1Hd5gxkkaxBcd-7KIllDmXrDoY1P8M-ZWBlmdX3M7-JG2M2jUJl/s400/IMG_4679_2.jpg" width="310" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> OMG and here is the best part, as you can see from the photo above you get a delicious balsamic sauce from stewing all day. The NEXT day you can use your slow cooker with this sauce and chicken breasts. All you do is take out all the good sauce from your leftovers and put it in the pot with the chicken. You get DELICIOUS balsamic chicken. If you're from Stamford you know the restaurant, <a href="http://pelliccis.com/">Pelicci's</a> and you KNOW their balsamic chicken. This is not that, but pretty damn close. </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> I hope you like it, and if you have any questions, <a href="mailto:lizjoycreative@gmail.com">email me!</a></div>

RECIPES

Balsamic Glazed Pot Roast with Dijon

I have heard and read about several pot roast recipes lately and was dying to give my new Crock-Pot from JCPenney a spin. I have never real...

MONDAY MIXOLOGY :: ELDERFLOWER MARTINI

I know, I know, it's Monday so we should be getting our sh** together, detoxing, and starting the week off on a healthy foot, i.e. not drinking cocktails, but I had to post about my new specialty and I liked the way "Monday Mixology" sounded so I'm going with it. I had this delicious martini a couple weekends ago on a date night with my husband and thought it was the best drink I'd ever been served. I finally got around to buying the ingredients this weekend and we had some friends over who verified that it is indeed an awesome drink.<br /> <br /> To be honest, I never been much into cocktails...wait that's a total lie, I lived on "vodka sodas" in college and in my early twenties in NYC. Anyhow, in my adult years I should say, I'm not much of a cocktail girl unless we're at a special function or a girls night out...or I'm having a fun night out with my hubby...OKAY so maybe I am a cocktail girl after all?? I guess I should say I've never appreciated the flavor and what goes into mixing a delicious drink, until this one. I'm calling it the "Elderflower Martini" and I want you to make it and let me know what you think as soon as you can.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit5yL2D3AA_f80HQRPslm72GEyUBch80iIDPrdQZ8z_OEqTqj-_IET51iYI2w3l3avU0FPC9LJBwJZGS4q319ayjfph8tUTjRZv7RpClC8VFinEm6mB4g2orxo365tlstrQ2CRqVVn2BJe/s1600/DSC_0758.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit5yL2D3AA_f80HQRPslm72GEyUBch80iIDPrdQZ8z_OEqTqj-_IET51iYI2w3l3avU0FPC9LJBwJZGS4q319ayjfph8tUTjRZv7RpClC8VFinEm6mB4g2orxo365tlstrQ2CRqVVn2BJe/s640/DSC_0758.jpg" width="522" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> The martini is made of: </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> 3 parts vodka</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> 1 part St-Germain</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> 1 part fresh grapefruit juice</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> a splash of club soda</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> You shake everything up with ice in that cocktail shaker you got for your wedding and never use, and pour the mix into your prettiest glasses and  finally splash with soda. Your friends will love it and appreciate the effort of making them something different and special, I promise. </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> PS If you've never had it, St-Germain is a l<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Century, Times, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">iqueur is made from elderflower, a small, white starry flower that blooms through the spring and summer. In Europe, the flower is used in many foods and drinks, but in the U.S. it's gaining popularity in the form of this liqueur (obvi) and magical things are happening. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=Purejoyhome&loc=en_US%22%3ESubscribe%20to%20purejoyhome%20by%20Email%3C/a%3E">Subscribe to purejoyhome by email</a></div>

general lifestyle, RECIPES

MONDAY MIXOLOGY :: ELDERFLOWER MARTINI

I know, I know, it's Monday so we should be getting our sh** together, detoxing, and starting the week off on a healthy foot, i.e. not d...

The Real Deal Chicken Soup

Yesterday was one of those perfect fall days and I was craving a bowl of hot chicken soup. We also all have colds so I wanted to do what I could to make everyone feel a little better. Of course, little Brian wouldn't eat it so he had oatmeal instead (enter mad face, are there emoticons on blogger? I must find out).<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRw-1D59HTfK-3l_XPqTr7FvdVMkn9S2zglM46CTYlSNEWjUQPJ1O_tPMbHVMAKC-NdILy3RVIxhntYI8tgtX3jikVPXxthC8uXNxXKcitdyDwsL2nY35E6eWEdXBrgAPkOBeRzhXpsAI1/s1600/DSC_0712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRw-1D59HTfK-3l_XPqTr7FvdVMkn9S2zglM46CTYlSNEWjUQPJ1O_tPMbHVMAKC-NdILy3RVIxhntYI8tgtX3jikVPXxthC8uXNxXKcitdyDwsL2nY35E6eWEdXBrgAPkOBeRzhXpsAI1/s400/DSC_0712.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> I can't remember making a chicken soup this good but then again I have pregnancy/sleep deprived/baby amnesia so it is possible. > Seriously though, what is with the amnesia?? Do other moms feel this way? I can't remember sh** these days. I feel like I need to give a disclaimer to every person I talk to like, "sorry if we've already spoken about this but..." Is that a thing?? Or is it only me? I hope not <<br /> <br /> Anywho, I feel like whenever I am sick I rely on asking my mom to make her delicious chicken soup, but I wanted to give it a go this time now that I'm an adult with two kids of my own to look after, which still baffles me sometimes. I looked online for recipes and came up short with all these short-cut ones but I wanted to make the real deal. So I called up mom and went to the local market to pick up these ingredients:<br /> <br /> 1 whole chicken<br /> 1 quart of low sodium chicken broth<br /> carrots (not baby carrots)<br /> onion<br /> celery<br /> *I already had dried spices at home to use which included parsley, bay leaves and thyme<br /> <br /> So here is what you have to do, it's SO EASY!!!<br /> <br /> Take the chicken out of the bag and rinse it under cold water (gross). I used perdue and the nasty inside stuff is in a bag in the cavity that you take out and throw in the garbage (super gross). Place the chicken breast down in a pot (I used my Le Creuset dutch oven). Cover the chicken with cold water and put in your chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Add your spices, some salt (about 2.5-3 tablespoons, you can always add more after) and peppercorns and let it all come to a boil. Once the water is at a rolling boil, reduce to a simmer and place the lid half on so the steam can come out. Let the chicken cook about 45 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.<br /> <br /> Take the chicken out and shred it all up like this:<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWaGHMYX8bDCGIyRFOAa4-yQE-gl32S3ylmR3hN3b9QF6cFbWCJW3P4wFoRelkAj07JyBZh5lEBVif2xUyzkq6-_Z5Focwp8I6-NG3DafTBXHId-aBUCiMDUKVe3yno5ZRwlueyRtFUEBB/s1600/IMG_3872.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWaGHMYX8bDCGIyRFOAa4-yQE-gl32S3ylmR3hN3b9QF6cFbWCJW3P4wFoRelkAj07JyBZh5lEBVif2xUyzkq6-_Z5Focwp8I6-NG3DafTBXHId-aBUCiMDUKVe3yno5ZRwlueyRtFUEBB/s640/IMG_3872.jpg" width="480" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUlwUZwM4N1fTl9LEfoPvgfYvlvy6KAeAAuNU8Ym0ghWAeYA_LidLoagj-6bkaUL4U1oXbk9E1X_foAH19E8cYBjv0If5Hoe2thezY7UCNosT4ytAPrd2zbbwXbC_GMMeSBwEDWxKERnK4/s1600/IMG_3875.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUlwUZwM4N1fTl9LEfoPvgfYvlvy6KAeAAuNU8Ym0ghWAeYA_LidLoagj-6bkaUL4U1oXbk9E1X_foAH19E8cYBjv0If5Hoe2thezY7UCNosT4ytAPrd2zbbwXbC_GMMeSBwEDWxKERnK4/s400/IMG_3875.jpg" width="300" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> I can't believe I posted that, so gory looking!</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> And strain your broth taking out all the veggies. I added back the carrots but that's it, I guess you could add back the onion and celery if you wanted to but a lot of their flavor leaves and goes into the broth.</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwa4P_QsffuPe4q2Io6ALrxmtpCD4QAn5lLZTAiiWjDSdgS2FOS-6XO3ltP7UdQ_wkv62qUtx6um9gzcRKM92FpcukFV9cVuz4SJIoGKjBfL5CacNwfqsPgX2L1qoYOD98sc86eu6fxrms/s1600/IMG_3871_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwa4P_QsffuPe4q2Io6ALrxmtpCD4QAn5lLZTAiiWjDSdgS2FOS-6XO3ltP7UdQ_wkv62qUtx6um9gzcRKM92FpcukFV9cVuz4SJIoGKjBfL5CacNwfqsPgX2L1qoYOD98sc86eu6fxrms/s400/IMG_3871_2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> So you add the chicken back into your pot with the broth and let simmer. I added more broth using about a half quart of the low sodium chick broth and some more cooked carrots. </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7z8-wWteftoX8rjGuqdF5SAytYpQU7DsdxJ2FEQ_jVSmW1tV2wzIQdrit5sfcmMpgHmnk4uDa57acDSWmYaetUPtynNPEacGsnmj9nwRVVpvuEDuMqS5TFpdnf9124cOC8OMq_SPC_tjF/s1600/IMG_3874_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7z8-wWteftoX8rjGuqdF5SAytYpQU7DsdxJ2FEQ_jVSmW1tV2wzIQdrit5sfcmMpgHmnk4uDa57acDSWmYaetUPtynNPEacGsnmj9nwRVVpvuEDuMqS5TFpdnf9124cOC8OMq_SPC_tjF/s400/IMG_3874_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBUuF2qBc3b0QXLdIF1vgm9487iXb7vK156-k-uud6W4HgfSiK4PUzsFRGYf4zPbdmC3PA-HGqdqtUSYiXi4CKYhaGrxTka6BlmNc5f4EEFXXKfPeud-i6wjk3XuX7PtUjH_XBC7UvE2_f/s1600/IMG_3877.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBUuF2qBc3b0QXLdIF1vgm9487iXb7vK156-k-uud6W4HgfSiK4PUzsFRGYf4zPbdmC3PA-HGqdqtUSYiXi4CKYhaGrxTka6BlmNc5f4EEFXXKfPeud-i6wjk3XuX7PtUjH_XBC7UvE2_f/s400/IMG_3877.jpg" width="300" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="b-hbp-video b-uploaded" frameborder="0" height="266" id="BLOGGER-video-3a21d82f112b8d90-14858" mozallowfullscreen="mozallowfullscreen" src="https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxsFS3x4V0bkc-bP1nrDTI89e6p0C9_s_TyTCFW6HVCMgYBSrzPZS6PYlSKNJeqcHmJqWAExFM5BrnAyyNfWUbOq6gZIRzQXI4f0FY41Rw3xUB-WMb8cXqnF3fLjI2mrSuzYrVg&origin=purejoyhome.blogspot.com" webkitallowfullscreen="webkitallowfullscreen" width="320"></iframe></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Also, cook the noodles of your choice separately and add them as you are serving the soup into the bowls so they don't get too mushy. </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> And there you have it, a perfect soup to impress the best! Add that to your list of staples :)</div> <br />

RECIPES

The Real Deal Chicken Soup

Yesterday was one of those perfect fall days and I was craving a bowl of hot chicken soup. We also all have colds so I wanted to do what I c...

Cauliflower Mac & Cheese (The Rich & Creamy Version)

Cauliflower Mac & Cheese is nothing new but the version I made last night is a little richer than the healthy versions all over the web. I included butter and lots of cheese along with the cauliflower because this recipe was intended to feed my toddler, Brian (age 2), who burns 80,000 calories a day. He is also the PICKIEST eater you could imagine and I should have known he would refuse to eat this because he saw the bag of cauliflower on the counter and because it didn't taste like the box of Annie's he usually gets. He cried in his high chair for about 15 minutes, like sobbed, until we finally gave in and let him eat what we knew he would: cucumber, cottage cheese with jelly, cheese, grapes, and a few crackers.<br /> <br /> I can't tell you how AGGRAVATING it is to think you're going to hit the jackpot with dinner for your toddler only to have him say "YUCK I don't like it" without even trying it. I know it's my fault because I usually just make what I know he will eat and he knows I will eventually give in.  I also understand it would help if we ate as a family but Brian Sr. commutes to New York City and gets home too late for Brian who is usually hungry around 6. I guess I will continue to try and hopefully he'll come around. Do you battle this with your toddlers??<br /> <br /> I posted this instagram because I finally saw the humor in the whole thing:<br /> <br /> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqxOw7KQjB_0P_-41KVF9p_uVKvC2oeEsm6WXBYthdIgfMb3GjMVE5BodSCusOkLAAaisutTFhKjTOk17gTsx__zQRStQzvkvnFsEW8KKazAn-URF6PlEAS4HmNEHbP3x7yvRw0XLcM4h-/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-09-13+at+8.56.12+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqxOw7KQjB_0P_-41KVF9p_uVKvC2oeEsm6WXBYthdIgfMb3GjMVE5BodSCusOkLAAaisutTFhKjTOk17gTsx__zQRStQzvkvnFsEW8KKazAn-URF6PlEAS4HmNEHbP3x7yvRw0XLcM4h-/s320/Screen+Shot+2015-09-13+at+8.56.12+PM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what I deal with...</td></tr> </tbody></table> SO onto the recipe. My husband and I devoured it or else I would have thrown it away (and this is how mothers and fathers gain weight). This would make an excellent side dish to any comfort food, or as a main dish for normal children who eat. This recipe serves 4.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNgYlD1tGk9Ev9N8eWMjzgpZMyQnFT9JWTUZcUdXlFe1f-9u9H0ucNYDKZ195zTfZhi_fhRt0sCIMmO4CEMjYdLMOmRWl1khdo5o1IuoDeKLomamKouQ-8v7zHLikv7pXwVPmXEst1dZHZ/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNgYlD1tGk9Ev9N8eWMjzgpZMyQnFT9JWTUZcUdXlFe1f-9u9H0ucNYDKZ195zTfZhi_fhRt0sCIMmO4CEMjYdLMOmRWl1khdo5o1IuoDeKLomamKouQ-8v7zHLikv7pXwVPmXEst1dZHZ/s640/unnamed.jpg" width="504" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> I boiled pasta and made the sauce on the side.<br /> <br /> For the sauce, I used:<br /> <br /> About 4 cups of boiled cauliflower, puréed in a food processor. In a sauce pan I melted 3 tablespoons of butter and added the puree with some salt. I mixed it up and then added two handfuls of shredded mozzarella cheese, about 2 ounces of cheddar, and a dash of milk. I really eyeballed the whole thing and kept stirring it until I got the consistency I desired.<br /> <br /> I poured the mixture of the pasta and got delicious results. Seriously, even though the tot didn't like it, it was delicious and you should definitely make it :)<br /> <br /> Hooray for hidden veggies!<br /> <br />

MOTHERHOOD, RECIPES

Cauliflower Mac & Cheese (The Rich & Creamy Version)

Cauliflower Mac & Cheese is nothing new but the version I made last night is a little richer than the healthy versions all over the web....

My Mother's Arroz con Pollo Recipe

My mom is SUCH a good cook which has always given me inspiration to get into my own kitchen and serve up delicious meals just like she did for us growing up.<br /> <br /> Quite possibly my favorite dish is her Spanish Arroz con Pollo, basically a quick weekday paella minus the pork and seafood. The flavors are exploding and it's a one-pot meal which is a huge bonus for mess and time. It's sort of hard for me to leave exact instructions because I eye-ball a lot of judge the next steps based on the moment but I'll try because you need to have this.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibUGKyImmMMUllhx-2LZWAoOuMNhOfuU__51OXs-YvvxeofigiBvDEfehCzoZjpuIS0A9i9MFD-k8wO6pp402yPFMkYaZ_3OMPqVo7CzKDTnuAB_vILpee3T93X3g-Vjs3fwC68Jah73lv/s1600/DSC_0635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="516" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibUGKyImmMMUllhx-2LZWAoOuMNhOfuU__51OXs-YvvxeofigiBvDEfehCzoZjpuIS0A9i9MFD-k8wO6pp402yPFMkYaZ_3OMPqVo7CzKDTnuAB_vILpee3T93X3g-Vjs3fwC68Jah73lv/s1600/DSC_0635.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> Here is what you need:<br /> <br /> white rice<br /> 2-3 cloves of garlic<br /> chicken broth<br /> bone-in chicken breasts<br /> 1 red pepper<br /> 1 green pepper<br /> string beans cut to bite-size pieces<br /> peas (optional)<br /> 1 ripe juicy tomato<br /> 1 packet of Goya Sazon con azafran<br /> lemon for garnish<br /> <br /> Here is what you do:<br /> <br /> Salt your chicken pieces liberally<br /> Brown your chicken in a dutch oven with olive oil and the garlic cloves, removing the garlic once it's browned<br /> Once you've sealed in the moisture and flavor of the chicken by browning it all around, remove it from pan.<br /> In the same olive oil, sauté your peppers until soft and then add the string beans and peas if you desire<br /> Chop up the tomato and throw that in as well and add another clove or two of garlic<br /> Add about three - four cups of full flavor chicken broth (not the low sodium kind)<br /> Put your chicken back in the pot with the veggies and the broth and let it cook and take on the flavors<br /> Once it's almost cooked, it's time to add the rice. Follow the instruction on the bag on how much rice to add based on how much chicken broth you added.<br /> Add the packet of the Goya Sazon (this is what turns the rice yellow) and let the rice cook and absorb the delicious broth<br /> Once the rice is cooked, you're done!<br /> <br /> Serve with lemon and you'll have a serious fiesta going on in your mouth.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br />

RECIPES

My Mother's Arroz con Pollo Recipe

My mom is SUCH a good cook which has always given me inspiration to get into my own kitchen and serve up delicious meals just like she did f...

Hearty Beef Stew

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> I LOVE a good one-pot hearty dinner in the fall and winter seasons, especially when it's cooking on the stove-top all day long. There is nothing like walking into the aroma of a delicious dinner getting better and better as it sits in your kitchen while you go about your day. I grew up eating my mom's delicious stew and for some reason I've never given it a try. I was at my friend Jenna's over the weekend and the topic of stew came up (we're so hip) and she shared a recipe she had with me. I took her recipe and changed it a bit with tips from my mom and it came out AMAZING.  It's so easy to make because it's a one pot dinner, the only thing you really need is time to let it slow-cook so the beef braises and becomes "fall off the bone tender".<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPzH8b2Y7E8pqBvD7ufR_8A-ZUgA4aZoPvOeCxOGyMLy9Bcq3L1CjiFd7bxJ-1y7-nYyyfPKKG252-3LKTTfxmrVviVE17h8AFGht3ZUoWRM7934teg64ggAmEurXIYYFBFCKulxE-Ug6O/s1600/IMG_0312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPzH8b2Y7E8pqBvD7ufR_8A-ZUgA4aZoPvOeCxOGyMLy9Bcq3L1CjiFd7bxJ-1y7-nYyyfPKKG252-3LKTTfxmrVviVE17h8AFGht3ZUoWRM7934teg64ggAmEurXIYYFBFCKulxE-Ug6O/s640/IMG_0312.jpg" width="618" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> Here is the recipe I used:<br /> <br /> Ingredients:<br /> <br /> 2 lbs. of chuck meat, or stew meat<br /> 1 cup of red wine<br /> (2) 8 oz. cans of Hunt's tomato sauce<br /> (1) 12 oz. can of beef broth<br /> 1 medium onion<br /> A few carrots sliced up into coins<br /> 2 potatoes (any kind) cut into 1-inch cubes<br /> 1 big bag of frozen mixed vegetables (I used the one with carrots, corn, string beans, and peas<br /> <br /> Flour and salt the beef and make sure it is cut into bite size pieces. Brown the beef in a dutch oven in 3 tablespoons of butter and a little olive oil (do in batches).<br /> Put the meat back into the dutch oven, add wine, and scrape the brown bits from the pot. Add the cans of Hunts and the can of beef broth and bring to a boil.  Reduce heat and cook for two hours.<br /> Add carrots, potatoes and mixed vegetables and let simmer all day for as long as you want, yesterday it was like 4 hours.<br /> <br /> Serve with rustic bread and voila!!!<br /> <br /></div>

RECIPES

Hearty Beef Stew

I LOVE a good one-pot hearty dinner in the fall and winter seasons, especially when it's cooking on the stove-top all day long. There i...

Cucumber Soup

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> I love a tasty cold soup in the summer and this delicious cucumber number developed by my friend Leah is a winner.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKP26q-A72ITWwuyXfyFfivfRY7bFbTdt9-0HgLgS4rdrua6kpGf5r8ym-YapoB9yJlZZ4NIaHkNZYKDaTZ7b4FHcGKppOhImY_Xmcb7z6PEKYrl2FAj1IDez6Cun6Ne5HdFTCqfI90C05/s1600/cucumber+soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKP26q-A72ITWwuyXfyFfivfRY7bFbTdt9-0HgLgS4rdrua6kpGf5r8ym-YapoB9yJlZZ4NIaHkNZYKDaTZ7b4FHcGKppOhImY_Xmcb7z6PEKYrl2FAj1IDez6Cun6Ne5HdFTCqfI90C05/s1600/cucumber+soup.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> Here is what you need:</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div> <div style="background-color: white;"> <div style="color: #222222;"> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">About 6 lbs. cucumbers, chopped</span></div> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">2 yellow bell peppers</span></div> </span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">jalapenos, chopped (to taste)</span></div> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">small handful of dill and mint</span></div> </span></div> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">large bunch of scallions or chives</span></div> </span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">large handful cilantro</span></div> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">6 cloves garlic</span></div> </span></div> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">2 1/2 tsp salt</span></div> </span></div> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">pepper to taste</span></div> </span></div> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">2 tsp Emeril Essence</span></div> </span></div> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">5 cups yogurt (preferably Greek, whole milk)</span></div> </span></div> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">1 cup sour cream</span></div> </span></div> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">3 tbs olive oil</span></div> </span></div> <span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">2 tsp white wine vinegar</span></div> </span><div style="color: #222222; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Here is what you do:</span></span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In a cuisinart or vita mix, combine all ingredients and puree until smooth.  Make sure to do in batches so as not to have a messy overflow!  Season to taste with more salt and pepper, if needed.  Garnish with chopped fresh chives or cilantro.  </span></span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Enjoy!!</span></span></div> </div>

RECIPES

Cucumber Soup

I love a tasty cold soup in the summer and this delicious cucumber number developed by my friend Leah is a winner. Here is what you...

Lemon Parmesan Pasta with Crispy Kale

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinfr4HS7G38T3qxjG3hTbXpqjmEqsbp7iX1ZvjAVfn2gQRe03BYmxIk_NthV2zFvTPkR6sx7yCjv_N04giB_JpaCcDjN85nrf_BmceFuTsuYERflS8sNfcWB4UMYbBS6opN1gI3aXlIdsT/s1600/CSC_0153+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinfr4HS7G38T3qxjG3hTbXpqjmEqsbp7iX1ZvjAVfn2gQRe03BYmxIk_NthV2zFvTPkR6sx7yCjv_N04giB_JpaCcDjN85nrf_BmceFuTsuYERflS8sNfcWB4UMYbBS6opN1gI3aXlIdsT/s1600/CSC_0153+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> I made this delicious lemon parmesan pasta with crispy kale for myself the other night when Brian Sr. was out at a work event. As easy as it would have been to pour a bowl of cereal and call it a night, I wanted to enjoy my "me" time with a nice glass of white wine and some pasta while I binge watched Southern Charm.</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> The dish is super simple and so satisfying, Brian devoured the leftovers when he got home :) </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> All you need to do is: </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> 1) Boil your spaghetti in some salted water</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> 2) Sauté a bunch kale in a pan with some olive oil, a garlic glove, salt and lemon. </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> 3) Drain your pasta, pour some olive oil on top and load on the freshly-grated parmesan cheese (the more cheese the better in my world, but that's a personal preference).</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> 4) Put your kale on top, pour some wine, and enjoy!</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> </div>

RECIPES

Lemon Parmesan Pasta with Crispy Kale

I made this delicious lemon parmesan pasta with crispy kale for myself the other night when Brian Sr. was out at a work event. As easy...

Cinco de Mayo!

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> I got so excited when I looked at my phone today and saw that it was Cinco de Mayo! I love a reason to celebrate, especially on a drab day like Monday, so I sent Brian a text while he was on the train into NYC that read , "It's Cinco de Mayo, let's celebrate tonight!", followed by, "Please pick up a bottle of Patron on your way home :)". We've had an especially rough week with Big Brian traveling for work and a vicious stomach bug that hit basically everyone in our family. We're still dealing with the effects of it with poor little Brian who can't shake the, you know, don't want to type it out here but it begins with a D. I'm constantly changing his clothes and sheets because the diapers can't take it :(<br /> <br /> SOOOO on a positive note, here is what I plan on making with the Patron:<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiueZx9Erh9KhJIfc8gqwe-DNVTH6ffpCM8AM1PU4oAdIpyIACZ0IBc8SGDL7w71CI1j1NnY6GHD6mQTFhx1vROesEYosid3eDlS82HE0QOsQMS_OhXIZAyXIbh-AT9YZzYjxNQhK9KHtLy/s1600/f56b4248a2bbd7716647df2f3c63fcc3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiueZx9Erh9KhJIfc8gqwe-DNVTH6ffpCM8AM1PU4oAdIpyIACZ0IBc8SGDL7w71CI1j1NnY6GHD6mQTFhx1vROesEYosid3eDlS82HE0QOsQMS_OhXIZAyXIbh-AT9YZzYjxNQhK9KHtLy/s1600/f56b4248a2bbd7716647df2f3c63fcc3.jpg" width="480" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://thepenciljar.com/2012/04/22/cocktail-corner-classic-margarita/"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">source</span></i></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> And I'll whip up some guacamole and chicken tacos for dinner. I don't think little Brian is ready for any Mexican tastes yet, especially now with his you know...</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Happy Cinco de Mayo!</div> <br /></div>

RECIPES

Cinco de Mayo!

I got so excited when I looked at my phone today and saw that it was Cinco de Mayo! I love a reason to celebrate, especially on a drab day ...

Quick & Easy Banana Blueberry Muffins

I made these the other morning and got rave reviews from our visitors this weekend. Muffins seem to be that one snack no one can deny. These muffins are so easy to make and are so soft and sweet, bursting with blueberries.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqijM1aeuQ0ZIUWI3Gg5gk3tGqOETFrSNoLDJ6tFEnVn8x8PIS3c-aq2_U2UVYQv42VQUNW9NwyPBZKzWFYR1Q9XR37nEygQfC_vtS5_VV8Z36afYZzotjMNwELF3OitPMJGE2mr5fdUAL/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-03-19+at+8.49.01+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqijM1aeuQ0ZIUWI3Gg5gk3tGqOETFrSNoLDJ6tFEnVn8x8PIS3c-aq2_U2UVYQv42VQUNW9NwyPBZKzWFYR1Q9XR37nEygQfC_vtS5_VV8Z36afYZzotjMNwELF3OitPMJGE2mr5fdUAL/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-03-19+at+8.49.01+AM.png" width="397" /></a></div> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> SO here is what you need:</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1 teaspoon baking powder</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1 teaspoon baking soda</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1/2 teaspoon salt </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 3 large bananas, mashed</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 3/4 cup white sugar</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1 egg</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1/3 cup butter, melted</div> <div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1 1/2 - 2 cups of fresh or frozen blueberries</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> Here is what you do:</div> </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Coat muffin pans with non-stick spray, or use paper liners. Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 2. Combine bananas, sugar, egg, and melted butter in a large bowl. Fold in flour mixture, and mix until smooth. Scoop into muffin pans.</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 3. Bake in preheated oven. Bake mini muffins for 10 to 15 minutes</div> </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <i><span style="font-size: x-small;">This recipe was adapted from allrecipes.com</span></i></div>

RECIPES

Quick & Easy Banana Blueberry Muffins

I made these the other morning and got rave reviews from our visitors this weekend. Muffins seem to be that one snack no one can deny. These...

Luncheon Recipe :: Panzanella Salad

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> I had a few girlfriends and their babes over yesterday and made this delicious panzanella salad from The Barefoot Contessa's <i>How easy Is That</i> cookbook. It was so delicious and will definitely be a staple in the Joy household. </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgoFAXEO8Hh3jHSN1fuxXAS3v6huUaYwt3MV50CoWvv-MbWdMHAMb6dvDM6e2EH3Ivj5oExiUYQ3SpkC1c0AKAblGrt4_a4eoR5P3C4V91zIW0wICpxq6F2PPEUBUKA-G_OVFaGWL7hyIc/s1600/DSC_0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgoFAXEO8Hh3jHSN1fuxXAS3v6huUaYwt3MV50CoWvv-MbWdMHAMb6dvDM6e2EH3Ivj5oExiUYQ3SpkC1c0AKAblGrt4_a4eoR5P3C4V91zIW0wICpxq6F2PPEUBUKA-G_OVFaGWL7hyIc/s1600/DSC_0003.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <b>Here is what you need: </b></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> Good olive oil </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1 loaf of fresh ciabatta or french bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (6 cups). I go to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/beldottibakery">Beldotti Bakery</a> in Stamford for my bread, it is out of this world! </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> Kosher salt </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1 hothouse cucumber, unpeeled, seeded, and sliced 1/4 inch thick </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1 red bell pepper, large diced </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1 yellow bell pepper, large diced </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> ½ red onion, sliced in half rounds </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> ½ pound feta cheese, cut in ½-inch cubes </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> ½ cup Calamata olives, pitted</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> For the vinaigrette: </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 2 cloves garlic, minced </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1 teaspoon dried oregano </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> ¼ cup good red wine vinegar </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1/2 cup good olive oil </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <b>Here is what you do: </b></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large sauté pan. Add the bread cubes and sprinkle with salt; cook over low to medium heat, tossing frequently, for 5-10 minutes, until nicely browned. Add more olive oil as needed. </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> Place the cucumber, red pepper, yellow pepper, tomatoes and red onion in a large bowl. </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> For the vinaigrette, whisk together the garlic, oregano, mustard, vinegar, 1 teaspoon salt and the pepper. While still whisking, add the olive oil and make an emulsion. Pour the vinaigrette over the vegetables. Add the feta, olives and bread cubes and mix together lightly. Set aside for 30 minutes for the flavors to blend. Serve at room temperature.</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> It is so good, I promise your friends will love this! </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfFdqdy-2TJRZYL7iD7jiXH8-HfzEEF4RZ7Z8RZuSxzS5vUz2GY49YlM5y1uPE3N4WckuSlcvfiWX5o-0VAQtoi1vaSPOm_HdeXUGdigG0W2ScvdbNFVpeJNkUR1rO-cLr7YuSrAD4_jp1/s1600/DSC_0012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfFdqdy-2TJRZYL7iD7jiXH8-HfzEEF4RZ7Z8RZuSxzS5vUz2GY49YlM5y1uPE3N4WckuSlcvfiWX5o-0VAQtoi1vaSPOm_HdeXUGdigG0W2ScvdbNFVpeJNkUR1rO-cLr7YuSrAD4_jp1/s1600/DSC_0012.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brian's beautiful girlfriend Harper</td></tr> </tbody></table> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtI1BnSG0Bef9RDGSD3PxU9CptRLdYOZJwcAstU9Uyn362hi9nckwmca2loVkQfUXQbKPS9YgESw2BjLyBV8YFKMuua62mTfNHWuoO_zWrp3sB5jkM3CUa44N1LYzVDq8WOw28hjGJMYZZ/s1600/DSC_0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtI1BnSG0Bef9RDGSD3PxU9CptRLdYOZJwcAstU9Uyn362hi9nckwmca2loVkQfUXQbKPS9YgESw2BjLyBV8YFKMuua62mTfNHWuoO_zWrp3sB5jkM3CUa44N1LYzVDq8WOw28hjGJMYZZ/s1600/DSC_0007.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brian with his other girlfriend, Avellina. Not pictured: girlfriends 3 & 4, Siena and Chloe.</td></tr> </tbody></table> <div style="text-align: center;"> We're off to Florida for a long weekend, so long brutal cold!!!!!!</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> </div>

RECIPES

Luncheon Recipe :: Panzanella Salad

I had a few girlfriends and their babes over yesterday and made this delicious panzanella salad from The Barefoot Contessa's How easy ...