Last Friday I had the opportunity to participate in a wonderful luncheon at Vincente Italian restaurant in LA. There was a group of bloggers there to celebrate the release of the Sony Pictures movie Eat Pray Love on DVD & Blu-ray. Just in time for the holidays!
Continue reading “Eat Pray Love Lunch in LA”
Aren’t marshmallows just so FUN?! These are even more so with their two-toned colors, the perfect treat for the holiday season. Peppermint Candy Cane Marshmallows are as fun to eat out of hand as they are floating & melting in steamy hot chocolate.
I visited quite a few blogs to learn how to make marshmallows, two great references were Smitten Kitchen & the Cilantropist.
We also once made marshmallows at my favorite Blackmarket Bakery where I take occasional baking classes.
I got all playful with the color. A few drops of bright red food coloring swirled in & these become a bit more “holiday.”
The long drive to school inspires a lot of my creative thoughts. I got all smily when I thought up the idea to do jelly jars layered with hot cocoa mix, chocolate chips & these homemade marshmallows.
How fun would it be to add a few spoonfuls of hot chocolate mix, chocolate chips & peppermint marshmallows to make a steamy cup of hot cocoa.
The true spirit of the winter holidays in one single cup of greatness.
These marshmallows are rolled in a mix of confectioners sugar & pulverized candy canes to give ’em a bit more kick. You can use whatever hot chocolate mix you like or make your own. I had fun making little tags and layering this mix in jelly jars.
White chocolate or milk chocolate chips, or a mix would be fun in these jars. I always go with bittersweet or semi-sweet. Whatever tickles your taste buds will work out perfectly.
Are you making homemade holiday gifts? Have you ever made homemade marshmallows?
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From what I gather you guys visit my blog & make my recipes because you are craving something a little out of the ordinary. I like to stir the pot & create new versions of classics. I love putting new ideas into your creative minds. These Cranberry Pumpkin Ricotta Cookies are no exception. Yes, I like to bring you goodies – but I also try for the most part to bring you health. Why? Why not.
Continue reading “Cranberry Pumpkin Ricotta Cookies”
Could something as simple as stuffed mushrooms make a difference? I think it can & here is why. Before Thanksgiving I was asked to participate & create awareness for Share Our Strength. We are having a virtual dinner party & we invite each of you to attend & join in if you wish.
Continue reading “Bacon and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms”
Continue reading “Dream Big-Holiday Wish List”
In the spirit of crispy cool days & reflections on childhood visits to upstate NY apple farms I bring you my Maple Apple Pie Oat Bars. These are delightfully happy little treats that can be enjoyed any time at all. Made with old fashioned rolled oats, pure maple syrup, crispy fresh apples and warming spices these are a great breakfast, dessert or snack recipe.
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One of the perks of my job as a food writer, recipe developer & blogger is trips to learn & eat & spa. Yes, I said eat and I said spa. Myself & a group of fab bloggers gazed upon this image of a fruit bowl as we munched al fresco breakfastin sunny Westlake Village, California for a trip to Dole.
Continue reading “Dole Food & Wellness Blogger Summit”
Hope you all had a wonderful turkey day! Before we wrap on Thanksgiving I wanted to give you a few more ways to use up those delish leftovers. In my last post I gave you a Monte Cristo sandwich. If you have not tried that I suggest you do. These tostadas are another way to enjoy your leftovers. I have created two versions and there are many more you can come up with too. This post includes a Mexican twist and a Thanksgiving flavored one. Either way you go, you will be very pleased.
The Thanksgiving version has leftover cranberry sauce, feta & rosemary. The Mexican one has black beans (regular or refried are both great) cojita cheese and salsa. In both versions I added a layer of sweet potatoes & spread some sour cream on the crispy tortilla base.
These tostadas are simple to throw together and they look really pretty too. They are the perfect meal for lunch or dinner. Enjoy with a side salad, roasted or steamed veggies. I love all the bright colors in these layered meals. You can put each ingredient in a separate bowl & let guests or family members make their own stacked meal. Easy peasy & interactive for kids of all ages.
What is your favorite recipe using Thanksgiving leftovers?
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Use Thanksgiving Leftovers in These Recipes
Tostadas Recipe Links
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Please don’t get all purist on me. I did look up the exact definition of a Monte Cristo and I realize it is an egg-battered sandwich with Swiss cheese and ham. I am working with creative liberties here. In this Thanksgiving leftovers sandwich I used turkey & brie. If you want to swap those out and use ham & swiss be my guest. One thing is for certain, my version of the Monte Cristo will make you very happy. Continue reading “Thanksgiving Monte Cristo Sandwich”
This is such a special time of the year to gather with family and friends. It is fun to have a holiday celebration that focuses on gratitude, being thankful and food! At Thanksgiving we unite at the table together to enjoy a feast of seasonalsavories and sweets. The Thanksgiving meal takes a while to prepare, but it is so worth it. I have been loving what you guys have been sharing with us around the web.
Continue reading “Thanksgiving 2010 Recipe Round-Up”
It has been a whirlwind week with a trip to the Dole Wellness Institute, activities at school & work. Life is picking up speed as Thanksgiving fast approaches. I have a few more recipes to share before the big day hits.
These green beans are simple to prepare & I keep ’em light and healthy. The flavor of the crisp beans shines through & they are made more special with the addition of feta cheese & sautéed leeks. They pair perfectly with my Stuffing with Sweet Potatoes & Cranberries.
Continue reading “Green Beans with Leeks & Feta”
Stuffing is an essential side dish for the Thanksgiving holiday table. It is a shame most people save it for just once a year. As far as popularity goes it seems to be right up there with Pumpkin Pie. For this stuffing recipe, I added fresh tart cranberries and diced sweet apples. They compliment each other nicely. Served from a nice casserole dish it is the perfect side to any meal.
Continue reading “Stuffing with Sweet Potatoes & Cranberries”
