tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60336556000924883862024-03-19T03:51:33.974-05:00peace. love. & good food.Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.comBlogger812125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-3929462647757871292020-04-30T14:37:00.000-05:002020-04-30T14:37:27.881-05:00Blackberry Smash<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hi, friends! It's been a hot minute and it seems like I have a mile long list of recipes to share. We are definitely living in some strange times right now but we are all making the most of it around here. I never mind a little slow down from time to time so for that, I am thankful. I know that we will look back on this time with memories of precious family moments. If anything, it's taught us how to enjoy the little moment each day that much more. Not to mention the doodle is loving having all of his people home all day every day right now. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The world seems to be coming together in all kinds of ways right now and I'm loving seeing all of the new thing that people are making and new skills they are trying. I knew that I was going to go all in on quarantine cocktail hour and have been having tons of fun mixing and matching what I have in my liquor cabinet and coming up with new simple syrups and fresh mixers. If anything, we have had weather that has been beyond amazing the past month and a half, making happy hours on the patio extra festive. It's my favorite time of year to sit out there and the weather has just been perfect.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have been missing my girls nights and happy hours at some of my favorite happy hour spots in Charlotte and was really craving a blueberry smash from The Summit Room! I pulled up the cocktail menu and with a little tweaking, was inspired to recreate my own with some fresh blackberries I had on hand. The result was SMASHING and I'll for sure be making this again. I love the refreshing taste of the club soda but for added sweetness, I think that ginger beer would be a tasty addition.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>BLACKBERRY SMASH</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 oz. vodka</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 oz. mint simple syrup</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">handful of fresh blackberrie</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 lemon, juiced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 lime, juiced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">club soda</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In a cocktail glass, place 4-5 blackberries and muddle at the bottom of the glass. Top muddled blackberries with crushed ice In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, simple syrup, lemon juice, lime juice, and ice. Shake shake shake! Pour over muddles blackberries and ice and top with a little club soda. Garnish with blackberries and lemon rind</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-84677085501638477712019-08-15T08:33:00.000-05:002019-08-15T08:33:09.633-05:00SMOKED PAPRIKA COUSCOUS SALAD <div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This cous cous salad is having a major moment in our house this summer. I love the colors, the flavor, and the addition of paprika is just SO GOOD and unexpected. I've made this for a few Summer gatherings and it's been a huge hit. This recipe makes a ton and it is equally as delicious leftover. It makes the perfect side to chicken and fish, and can be served at room temperature which is great when you are trying to prep a meal for a crowd. This would even be good to make on a Sunday and eat for lunch for the week- just add some protein. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Giada is one of my OGs and never steers me wrong. Her recipes are mostly effortless and with the right flavors and a few simple ingredients, you've got something restaurant worthy that everyone will love. I tweaked her original recipe a tad and am craving now as I type it out. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I love the couscous, but you could easily swap out for quinoa, moroccan cous cous, or even orzo! The perfect Summer side that can take you well into Fall grilling.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>SMOKED PAPRIKA COUS COUS SALAD</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>recipe adapted from Giada DeLaurentiis</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">DRESSING:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 TBSP white balsamic vinegar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1.5 tsp. smoked paprika</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 tsp. kosher salt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 TBSP olive oil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 1/3 cups Israeli couscous</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2 tsp kosher salt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/4-1/2 cup toasted sliced almonds (if I have them)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 handfuls baby spinach leaves, chopped or whole</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1.5 cups cherry tomatoes, halved</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 cup roasted red peppers, chopped</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">kosher salt and ground pepper, to taste</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To make the dressing, whisk together all ingredients in a bowl and set aside to let the flavors marry.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For the couscous, heat oil over medium heat and add the couscous. Toast until golden, about 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently. Add 2 cups of water and salt and bring it all to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium and cover, simmering about 10 minutes or until the cousscous is cooked through and fluffy, and all of the water has been absorbed. Mix together the veggies, cous cous, and pour the dressing over the mixture, tossing it all together. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-15756888262395150742019-08-10T07:50:00.000-05:002019-08-14T07:51:30.578-05:00BASIL JALAPENO SIMPLE SYRUP<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I hope everyone had a great week! We are over here soaking up the last few weeks of Summer. Routine is nice, but I'm just not ready for the busy-ness that Fall and back to school season brings. Summertime is just the sweetest.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Patio happy hours are my favorite and our cocktail game has been pretty strong this summer if I do say so myself. If there is ever a spicy tequila drink on a restaurant's cocktail menu, I will almost always order it- and then try to recreate it at home! Restaurant menus are a great source of inspiration when looking for different flavors and Liquors to mix and match. I honestly like to keep it simple with just some good tequila, lime seltzer, and a wedge of lime most of the time, but there are other times that you just want a little something extra.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A friend of mine dropped off a TON of fresh basil from her garden. I made pesto, caprese, and more caprese, then saved out a handful for this simple syrup. Basil and jalapenos work so well alongside each other and this simple syrup provides the perfect backdrop to even the simplest of cocktail concoctions. The fresh jalapeno really stands out here, and even more so if you drop a few slices of fresh jalapeno in your drink! I love the spicy kick. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you can boil water, you can make simple syrup! Trust me here and have at it. Use this in a margarita, or just with a splash in a vodka soda. We made margaritas and they were a HUGE hit. So much flavor here and a perfect drink for Taco night- or any night of the week to be honest. Enjoy!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>BASIL JALAPENO SIMPLE SYRUP</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 cup sugar</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 cup water</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">handful fresh basil leaves</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2 sliced jalapeno </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Place sugar and water in a small saucepan on medium high heat. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove the pan from the heat and drop in the basil and jalapeno slices. Let this all steep until the syrup is completely cooled.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Once syrup is cooled, strain into a glass container. This will last in a sealed glass container for quite a while! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>BASIL JALAPENO MARGARITAS</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 oz. Tequila</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2 oz. basil jalapeno simple syrup</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">lime seltzer water</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">lime juice</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">jalapeno slices + lime wedges for garnish</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Prep your glass with a salt rim if desired. Fill glass with ice, tequila, and the simple syrup. Finish with a pour of seltzer and a splash of lime juice. Give it a quick stir and garnish with a lime wedge and a couple of jalapeno slices for heat. </span></div>
Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-17398875878059641562019-08-02T08:24:00.002-05:002019-08-02T08:24:49.239-05:00ZUCCHINI, CORN, + PESTO PIZZA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you've been following along here for awhile, you know that most Friday nights are homemade pizza nights in our house! I perfected my <a href="http://www.peacelovegoodfood.com/2011/11/neapolitan-pizza-dough.html">dough recipe</a> YEARS ago and the only thing I've changed since then is making the switch earlier this year to organic flour. Hear me out on this one- something about the organic flour makes the dough SO MUCH BETTER. I can't explain it, but it's worth the extra few dollars at the grocery store. Also worth investing in? A pizza stone! This makes all the difference when cooking a homemade pizza at home. You just cannot beat it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This pizza was inspired by one they serve at a local organic farm here in Charlotte. My friend raves about it and I decided to give it a whirl. Mark Moore was skeptical at first, but I made him a believer. Corn on a pizza may sound odd, but trust me on this one. The sweet kernels add a little something extra and I am here for it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I layered the pesto on this one and it was just heavenly. There is nothing like fresh homemade pesto in the Summer. I was out of walnuts and pine nuts, so I made a quick batch with just basil, parmesan, garlic, and olive oil and I think this is what I will do from now on when making pesto for pizza. It was lighter and fresher tasting to me and without the nuts, the basil really shines through. That intense basil flavor on this pizza is what makes it so good. (besides the little pops of sweet from the corn) If you wanted to add some meat, I think prosciutto would be amazing on this one! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's like Summer on a pizza. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>ZUCCHINI, CORN, + PESTO PIZZA</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For my homemade Neapolitan pizza dough, follow the recipe <a href="http://www.peacelovegoodfood.com/2011/11/neapolitan-pizza-dough.html">HERE</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 ear sweet corn, cooked and cut off the cob</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Handful of zucchini "ribbons" (I used a veggie peeler and shaved about 1/2-1 cups worth!)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pesto (store bought or homemade)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Shredded whole milk mozzarella</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you are using homemade dough, preheat oven with pizza stone inside to 500 degrees. Once the oven comes to 500, remove the pizza stone and immediately prep your pizza.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Roll out dough and place on preheated stone. Spread a layer of pesto and then a very thin layer of mozzarella. Top with zucchini ribbons and sprinkle on the fresh corn. Add another layer of mozzarella.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bake for 8 minutes on 500, or until nice and melty and bubbly! Hit it with some red pepper flakes for heat. </span>Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-15656730756668862652019-07-24T09:08:00.001-05:002019-07-24T09:08:30.132-05:00CAJUN GRILLED COD + SUMMER VEGGIE SAUTE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJt7gLDzxaRNLtniemUeKf4cywDb6nK_jAxwx_AMb8mBKNO4amBCmujmt1dRoHN9Q7tnHKwTY-CsNZ3jgDOpOT46Av4rGYItxyyjV2ZKtTHugEfk8xLPogXKUS8vSUs7gpdFitfFbJSp0/s1600/IMG_1642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJt7gLDzxaRNLtniemUeKf4cywDb6nK_jAxwx_AMb8mBKNO4amBCmujmt1dRoHN9Q7tnHKwTY-CsNZ3jgDOpOT46Av4rGYItxyyjV2ZKtTHugEfk8xLPogXKUS8vSUs7gpdFitfFbJSp0/s640/IMG_1642.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I will forever say that Summer cooking is the best kind of cooking. Everything is lighter and fresher and the colors make everything pop and look so pretty on a plate! The best kind of Summer meal in my mind is just picking up whatever is fresh in the produce section and grilling a good piece of fish or other meat. Done and done! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This dinner is basically no recipe at all- my favorite kind of dinner to make! I was inspired by the fish special at one of our favorite beach spots last weekend (The Wild Olive) and decided to do my own take on it. These Summer veggies are my new favorite combo and the best part is that you can add whatever you like. Just a little garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper is all you need. The cherry tomatoes burst a little as they warm and make their own tasty sauce for another depth of flavor. I hit it all with a generous shake of red pepper flakes before serving- give me all the heat!! Wild caught Cod was on sale this week, but you could use whatever fish you like! I tried to tell my kids we were eating chicken, but they didn't buy it. We typically eat fish one night a week throughout the year, but the Summer is the best because you can always grill it! It's just so much better on the grill. For this dish, I put together a quick cajun rub and let it sit on the fish for about 15 minutes before Mark put it on the grill. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Add this to your meal plan ASAP for the perfect weeknight Summer dinner! (you can even skip the fish and make these veggies as a side!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>CAJUN GRILLED COD + SUMMER VEGGIE SAUTE</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wild caught cod (I estimate about 1/2 lb. per adult)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 cloves garlic, minced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 lb. fresh okra, cut into 1/2 inch pieces</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 small zucchini, chopped</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 ears sweet corn, cooked and cut off the cob</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced in half</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Olive oil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Salt</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">CAJUN RUB-</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tsp. salt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tsp. pepper</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tsp. paprika</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 tsp garlic powder</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 tsp onion powder</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 tsp cumin</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To prepare the fish, pour a little olive oil on top and brush all over. Rub with the cajun seasoning and let the fish sit for 10-15 minutes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While the fish sits, chop veggies. In a large saute pan on medium heat, saute garlic and olive oil until the garlic is soft and fragrant, 2-3 minutes. Add zucchini and okra and cook until the veggies become a little soft and toasty, about 8-10 minutes. Add in tomatoes and corn towards the end and wait for the tomatoes to get soft and a little saucy. Season with salt and pepper at the end to taste.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For the fish, grill for 10-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fish you may need more time. When it's nice and flaky its done! You can also do in the oven at 400 for 15 minutes. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Plate a big pile of veggies with the fish on top. Hit it all with some red pepper flakes if you like heat and a squeeze of lemon! </span><br />
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<br />Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-4970214729413839902019-07-19T07:54:00.002-05:002019-07-19T08:16:45.091-05:00GRAPEFRUIT + BLOOD ORANGE TEQUILA SPRITZ<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's about time we add another cocktail to the recipe files around here! Not even 9:00 on a Friday morning and I'm still chugging coffee with happy hour on the brain.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We've always loved making these <b><a href="http://www.peacelovegoodfood.com/2011/06/markarita-time.html">Markaritas</a></b>, but we have really gotten into Tequila over the past couple of years and love trying new types and brands. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Many years ago, when Mark was reading tons of Paleo books, so many of them talked about how Tequila is one of the cleanest liquors that you can drink since it comes from a plant. "CLEAN DRINKING" I call it. Sign me up! </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We drank margaritas together on our first date so this only seems fitting that this is what we really gravitate to! With the good tequilas, we love it with a splash of lime La Croix and a wedge of lime- it is really my favorite way to drink it. I LIKE TO TASTE THE TEQUILA.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This drink was inspired from my birthday dinner at one of our favorite Charlotte restaurants. It's refreshing and flavorful without being overly sweet. This Blood Orange Liqueur is a new favorite and a great one to have on hand. Just a splash adds a touch of sweetness and that bold blood orange taste. I cannot get enough of this Spritz. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>GRAPEFRUIT + BLOOD ORANGE TEQUILA SPRITZ</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 oz. Good Tequila </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2 oz. Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A few dashes of <a href="https://amzn.to/2Y0lL4I">Orange Bitters</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Top off with Grapefruit Spindrift</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Squeeze of fresh grapefruit + grapefruit wedge for garnish</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I make these individually in the glass. Combine Tequila, Blood Orange Liqueur, and orange bitters and give it a little stir. Add ice and top off with Grapefruit Spindrift and a squeeze of fresh grapefruit. Garnish with a grapefruit wedge!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Cheers! Hope everyone enjoys the Summer sunshine this weekend! (and some tequila of course) For more cocktail inspo, you can follow me on Instagram (@ninanmoore) and check out the hashtag #DRINKMOORECOCKTAILS</span></div>
Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-19199644841205739042019-07-17T08:22:00.000-05:002019-07-18T07:57:12.780-05:00TROPICAL SALSA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I love everything about Summer. The slow days and the late nights. The sun and the sand. Happy hours on the patio and even the HEAT. And give me all the fresh Summer produce. Summer is just the best. And so is Summer cooking! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've been hoarding all of my food pics on my phone with then intent of rapid fire posting this Summer because I have missed sharing on this little space. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If there was ever an official salsa for Summer, this would be it! The original recipe comes from <a href="https://amzn.to/2JL1R8P">Tiffani Thiessen's Pull Up A Chair,</a> but I tweaked it a bit and added some more spice! And because I was feeling EXTRA, I pulled up a YouTube video and taught myself how to cut out a pineapple and use it as a serving bowl. This salsa was a huge hit at a cookout two weeks ago and I think it's even better when it sits overnight! The flavors are insane and I will be making this on repeat for the rest of the Summer. Not to mention it's just so freaking pretty in this pineapple bowl! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The best part about this is that all of the work is in the chopping and you just toss everything into a bowl. I honestly eyeballed the amounts here and just kind of added more of what I liked- like extra jalapenos for a kick! Scrape out the seeds if you don't like the heat, but I can't get enough. We are LOVING Late July Chips in our house. I picked them up for our Super Bowl nachos in the Winter and now they are the only chips I'll buy. The lime + sea salt ones are my personal fave. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Now, whip this up for your next Summer shindig and while you're at it, teach yourself how to craft a pineapple bowl! </span><br />
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<b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">TROPICAL SALSA</b><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>recipe adapted from Tiffani Thiessen</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 cup diced pineapple</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 cup seedless watermelon</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 cup diced mango</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 cup diced papaya</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2 cup diced english cucumber</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2 cup diced red bell pepper</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1-2 jalapenos, finely diced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2 small red onion, finely diced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2-1 cup chopped cilantro leaves</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 TBSP </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">fresh lime juice</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2 tsp chili powder</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2 tsp kosher salt</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mix all ingredients in a large bowl and let it sit and mingle for a few hours before serving. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-87219584211702771522019-07-16T09:09:00.000-05:002019-07-18T07:58:05.522-05:00BACK IN BUSINESS + PRIME DAY COOKBOOK PICKS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hello, beautiful people and HAPPY SUMMER!!! We are back in business in these parts. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've had this post here in draft mode for a few months now and am finally sitting down to finish it! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Somewhere in between Halloween and Thanksgiving, my domain was up for its yearly renewal and instead of automatically renewing as it had in the past, my new card information wasn't on file and my little space was sitting in a weird in between space in the internet and I had a slight panic attack. Thanks to many hours on my end and to the wonderful customer service people on my new hosting site, I was able to get it all back and up and running again! I am thankful that the years on here were not lost and that I can pick back up where I started from. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Summer is in full swing over here and I am loving it. It's nice to slow down and soak up the days with my little people and just go where the day takes us. I live for this time of year. We spent a week in the woods of Tennessee on our very first family camping trip with Mark's extended family and just as I predicted, the kids especially LOVED IT. It was definitely "glamping" and we made a lot of fun memories. Mark and I just spent a long weekend on Kiawah Island with good friends and it was the perfect adult getaway and recharge for the both of us. In between it all we've spent many days at the pool, playing with friends and just having fun. Oh! And Will turned 6! I don't even know how that happened but it did and he's just growing up much too fast. Kindergarten is just around the corner and if we're being honest, I'm having so many mixed feelings and feeling all of the emotions. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Summer sales are in full force and I'm feeling that it's all increasingly oversaturated each passing year. How much more stuff do we really need!? BUT! If there's anything I can always get behind is adding cookbooks to my kitchen bookshelf. It's the last day of Amazon Prime day and with the code <b>PRIMEBOOK19</b> you can get $5 off all print book purchases. Anytime I discover a new cookbook, I stick it in my Amazon cart and save for later. Here are a few I have in my cart now:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tiffani Thiessen's Pull Up A Chair</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Pull-Up-Chair-Recipes-Family/dp/1328710300/ref=as_li_ss_il?keywords=pull+up+a+chair&qid=1563285075&s=gateway&sr=8-1&linkCode=li3&tag=ninamoore-20&linkId=b95b6ee044cdd57f27a2acba9c3ec2d7&language=en_US" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1328710300&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=ninamoore-20&language=en_US" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=ninamoore-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=1328710300" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Curate: Authentic Spanish Food from an American Kitchen</span></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/C%C3%BArate-Authentic-Spanish-American-Kitchen/dp/1250059445/ref=as_li_ss_il?keywords=curate&qid=1563286073&s=gateway&sr=8-2&linkCode=li3&tag=ninamoore-20&linkId=e3426668c662faf1990186122f0cc20e&language=en_US" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1250059445&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=ninamoore-20&language=en_US" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=ninamoore-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=1250059445" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hope everyone is enjoying the sweet Summertime! </span><br />
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<br />Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com56tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-53616119640756713902018-11-01T15:49:00.000-05:002018-11-01T15:49:47.989-05:00The Great Pumpkin Beer Tasting of 2018<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGJ9ZxhQrm8E3qcV87E3Fr4eQvXn0_546oijN34rnZAZupjp4J4pKFSJ4MoHnrDIbMASgLX5t9915cBm-PIJJv3-2IF6rzcrzAwl8dnHIrlwGlywlNmTty0i9fmtmyXHNvaCvBgOZLzOk/s1600/IMG_8779.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGJ9ZxhQrm8E3qcV87E3Fr4eQvXn0_546oijN34rnZAZupjp4J4pKFSJ4MoHnrDIbMASgLX5t9915cBm-PIJJv3-2IF6rzcrzAwl8dnHIrlwGlywlNmTty0i9fmtmyXHNvaCvBgOZLzOk/s640/IMG_8779.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">'ve ignored this space for too long and am back with important things...like Pumpkin Beer! I </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: center;">couldn't let Pumpkin season go by without sharing our faves from this year's tasting. 90 degree weather we had right around the time Fall rolled around on the calendar, Mark and I still spent the first weekend of Fall trying all of these pictured here. Halloween has come and gone but I'm still here for all things Pumpkin. I'm just not ready to race into Christmas yet and we still have a full three weeks before Thanksgiving.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I want to rank these, but the truth is that they are all so different in their own way and I just don't think it's fair to compare. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">As always, Foothills Pumpkin Ale with Spices (formerly known as Cottonwood Pumpkin Ale) is our go to pumpkin beer each season. This has been my favorite for many years and I always go back to it. It's extra delicious if you can ever find it on draft! With just the right amount of spice to pumpkin ratio, it's the perfect pumpkin beer! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Sycamore's Gourd Have Mercy is a local favorite for me. It's extra delicious from a keg or on draft! It's not as spicy as other pumpkin beers, is slightly sweet and very smooth. It's also not a very heavy pumpkin beer which I love!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Southern Tier's Pumpking is always a crowd pleaser. These are potent little pumpkin ales but a true treat! It's that graham cracker crust buttery finish. SO GOOD.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Pumpkin Pie Porter from Deep River Brewing is a perfect cozy cold weather Fall beer. Think after dinner, around a fire pit type of beer. If you like darker beers, this one's for you. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Post Road Pumpkin Ale is another solid one. It's nothing too complex or fancy and is an easy one to sip on. I would say it's a good intro to pumpkin beer, for those that may be skeptical of what the rage is all about.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">This Pumpkin Latte Blonde Ale was a special edition from Sycamore and as soon as I saw it in the store I grabbed it as fast as I could because I knew it would go fast. It's light, slightly sweet and not as heavy on the coffee as you would think. I tasted more latte than pumpkin, but I really enjoy these blonde ales with coffee notes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Lastly, the store didn't have any of this when I went to get our beer haul early in the season, so we didn't drink it during our official tasting. NODA Brewing's Gordgeous is AMAZING. It's always delicious but whatever they did to it this year is beyond and I can't get enough. I've stockpiled it in our outdoor fridge. As of Monday, my Harris Teeter is completely out and won't be getting anymore so I high tailed it to Total Wine and grabbed some more. If you have some in your fridge, consider it that you are housing an endangered species in there. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Don't rush into the holiday season just yet- the pumpkin still deserves a few more weeks to shine. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-70410874599538076022018-08-13T07:50:00.002-05:002018-08-13T07:50:41.579-05:00#CLTforCharlotte<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEb02V-X1FGFtCdil0MBhlJStW3N2mIxZ2PUN4vtMBIHalpEZGJV23w0Kjo8s2S2B2YeRmts76Mpb-70JmzWB9JeSbIkjH2B-0xPQNhZrql6LSFMiBhx6DC6I8yLwknlnD54NKfSB0Qgw/s1600/c4c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="263" data-original-width="500" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEb02V-X1FGFtCdil0MBhlJStW3N2mIxZ2PUN4vtMBIHalpEZGJV23w0Kjo8s2S2B2YeRmts76Mpb-70JmzWB9JeSbIkjH2B-0xPQNhZrql6LSFMiBhx6DC6I8yLwknlnD54NKfSB0Qgw/s640/c4c.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If there's one thing that I will always love about blogging, it's the sense of community it brings. I started this little space almost 10 years ago which is crazy to think about! Social media and the internet can be a crazy place, but I have met some of my dearest friends through blogging and for that I'm forever thankful. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm popping in today to share the story of my friend <a href="http://www.smidgeofthis.com/">April's</a> sweet little girl Charlotte in hopes to reach more people and share a few things we are doing around the city of Charlotte and beyond to help this wonderful family. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here's a quick snippet of Charlotte's story below:</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BmBHY9gA9kI/?utm_source=ig_embed" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Our Chari-girl. 💕 Many of you have followed along on our journey and know we’ve been desperately seeking answers for why Charlotte didn’t start walking and why we’ve seen other scary regressions lately. I wanted an answer so badly. Now I wish we didn’t have it. We are heartbroken to say we’ve received news that she has Leukodystrophy, which is incurable and terminal. I don’t even know what to say. We’ve been at the hospital since Monday afternoon. We have a group of angels as friends who have stepped in and set up a designated email address to manage for us requests that have been coming in of how to love on her during this excruciating time (robsonfamilyhelp at gmail). We are respectfully requesting for privacy at this time while we just love on Char and work on getting her home.</a></div>
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A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/smidgeofthis/?utm_source=ig_embed" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" target="_blank"> April R.</a> (@smidgeofthis) on <time datetime="2018-08-03T12:53:02+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Aug 3, 2018 at 5:53am PDT</time></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/charlotte-robson">Go Fund</a> Me has been set up for the Robson family to help with medical and any other unforeseen expenses during this time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Additionally, we have some super cute tees with the CLTforCharlotte logo- I can't wait to see everyone around Charlotte and beyond wearing these. The t-shirt sales end <b>THIS SATURDAY, August 18, 2018! </b>We originally set the goal to sell 150 shirts but sales sky rocketed this weekend and now I'm thinking we can get to 500 or beyond! Just amazing.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr0m0jXm3AlYrhuSFyQQ4GFUqpQfuovRMIkG9NAKFvm6T2Z5CV7yno4nfszFt-gAy0gBztMQJx4bZTlVm9nAme2xJ7oH_p29R94VRjy_ro7cBdVS7RiM0zoQdyED3VAz1Q9R6__YQpQPo/s1600/TSHIRT-graphic.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr0m0jXm3AlYrhuSFyQQ4GFUqpQfuovRMIkG9NAKFvm6T2Z5CV7yno4nfszFt-gAy0gBztMQJx4bZTlVm9nAme2xJ7oH_p29R94VRjy_ro7cBdVS7RiM0zoQdyED3VAz1Q9R6__YQpQPo/s640/TSHIRT-graphic.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.customink.com/fundraising/clt-for-charlotte">CLICK HERE</a> for Adult and Youth tees.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.customink.com/fundraising/clt-for-charlotte-toddlers">CLICK HERE</a> for Toddler tees and Baby onesies</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">All the prayers and love to this sweet family.</span></div>
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<br />Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-74471388181294514572018-07-24T14:51:00.003-05:002018-07-24T14:51:57.771-05:00Grilled Okra<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0VO7AM-h9A75n3L4X-TMzC9c8FA6tuholvbLH7Que7LrT84FmKd7WSmdszwxCRD0RQpKFcDFQhKoLX23nSn80P_u2UpzPTcd2X_6FyxISM2K4J2tW1r6tVMtf5B4-OGI2rlBJQ-O0A1w/s1600/IMG_6392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0VO7AM-h9A75n3L4X-TMzC9c8FA6tuholvbLH7Que7LrT84FmKd7WSmdszwxCRD0RQpKFcDFQhKoLX23nSn80P_u2UpzPTcd2X_6FyxISM2K4J2tW1r6tVMtf5B4-OGI2rlBJQ-O0A1w/s640/IMG_6392.JPG" width="360" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We spent this past weekend in the mountains of North Carolina (Beech Mountain for you NC readers) and the air up there is just so refreshing! I spent 4 years in Boone for college but I never ever spent a Summer in the mountains and I almost wished I had. It's such a nice slow pace at this time of year and although it's still warm and Summery, it's just always extra crisp. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have simple meals on deck this week and as I was scrolling through my iPhone photos, this beautiful plate of grilled okra caught my eye and I had to share. If you're not grilling your okra, you're doing it wrong and if you're not eating okra? Well then you're doing it REALLY wrong. I do think that okra is mostly a texture thing and any aversion to it would have to be that but I have really grown to love this vegetable. Roasted, sauteed, fried- with grilled being my most favorite at all. It's a Summer staple in our house, especially since it's so easy to find fresh at this time of year. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This isn't so much a recipe as it is a PSA to get yourself to a farmer's market or grocery store and grab a bunch of okra and throw it on the grill. I promise you it will change your relationship with this southern vegetable. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A veggie grilling basket will change your grill game so if you don't have one, get on it! You can do all of your Summer vegetables this way and they always come out so good with SO MUCH FLAVOR. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Grilled Okra</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fresh okra, washed and dried</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Olive oil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">salt and pepper to taste</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Prepare the okra by washing and drying it. You can remove the tops, but I always leave them on and they are fine to eat! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In a large bowl, toss okra with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Transfer to a grilling basket/skillet and grill for 5-10 minutes, tossing frequently, until okra is charred and starting to get crispy. </span>Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-92170399587159595192018-07-16T15:20:00.002-05:002018-07-16T15:20:36.478-05:00Grilled Lemon Salmon Kebabs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLP7uQrAtKOWxUrq6gHXl_WadJKTLxxvGvXO-h0iAJYcjPW_7HrCDX_VzKUKmMtVxmF0Hhtlc4Fete6_fJXsUnzGI2eVfTn7JJ9Dm-5tz9f0cGdRtnz0KuYkZDJuq4mHVBnd2x7iukkc/s1600/ACS_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLP7uQrAtKOWxUrq6gHXl_WadJKTLxxvGvXO-h0iAJYcjPW_7HrCDX_VzKUKmMtVxmF0Hhtlc4Fete6_fJXsUnzGI2eVfTn7JJ9Dm-5tz9f0cGdRtnz0KuYkZDJuq4mHVBnd2x7iukkc/s640/ACS_0001.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">No better way to start off the week than with a healthy dinner recipe! </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: center;">My love for salmon knows no bounds and I'm always looking for fresh and new ways to prepare it. I LOVE grilling it in the Summer and getting that smokey grill flavor. Kebabs have been having a moment at our house, too. It's so easy to chop up a bunch of fresh ingredients, put them on a stick and throw it all on the grill. A one step meal that's delicous, healthy and doesn't take much prep time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These salmon kebabs are going straight to the top of my Summer favorites list. The flavor on the fish was INSANE from the grill as well as each piece being sandwiched between fresh lemon slices. Something about fish and lemon ALWAYS does it for me. I could be happy eating this as a meal every night this Summer. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I found <a href="https://www.skinnytaste.com/these-lovely-grilled-salmon-and-lemon/">this recipe</a> via Skinny Taste awhile ago and have been itching to make it. Also, how beautiful does the raw salmon and bright yellow lemon slices photograph!? These tasted as good as they looked. I tweaked the seasonings here a little and came up with my own spice rub for the salmon that was just perfect. It may sound strange, but don't forget to eat the lemons! This might be the best part of the meal.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I just can't stop thinking about these kebabs.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhionHQQSJUWedd8ECoIK3wXBX7xa0zkIRrZF62kR9ZCV21BbByH-vrKmqoi0d2JqOgccArLkJIUrkMVk6dTxUNkNOEWv8SxzkuzbtUHnVPGiW5ipnMPiAds16IOXUwhZzyJMsK_OjXspE/s1600/ACS_0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhionHQQSJUWedd8ECoIK3wXBX7xa0zkIRrZF62kR9ZCV21BbByH-vrKmqoi0d2JqOgccArLkJIUrkMVk6dTxUNkNOEWv8SxzkuzbtUHnVPGiW5ipnMPiAds16IOXUwhZzyJMsK_OjXspE/s640/ACS_0002.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Lemon Salmon Kebabs</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 Tbsp. chopped fresh oregano</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 tsp. garlic powder</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tsp. kosher salt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">fresh cracked pepper</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 lb. boneless skinless wild salmon</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 lemons, thinly sliced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4-8 bamboo skewers </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Olive oil</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before prepping your kebabs. I was able to fit all of my lemon and fish onto 4 skewers, and had them all pretty full. If you are serving more people, divide the fish and lemons amongst 8 skewers. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In a small bowl, combine oregano, crushed red pepper, garlic powder, kosher salt and cracked pepper.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cut salmon into 1 inch chunks. Beginning and ending with the salmon, thread salmon and folded lemon slices onto the skewers. Sprinkle evenly with the spice rub and add a little bit more salt and pepper on top as well. Drizzle with olive oil. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If doing these on an outside grill, grill on medium-high heat for about 8-10 minutes, until fish is fully cooked through. Make sure you turn the skewers often. For a grill pan, grill on medium high heat, turning often and cooking until the fish is cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. </span>Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-21740850349848484822018-07-11T08:05:00.000-05:002018-07-11T08:05:08.876-05:00Strawberry Jalapeno Simple Syrup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirM2eKtU9p0AygIq2RKDJy8Kb8qtgNeUtkHEPI2XUpYWPJfSV6F88spXVKMvnpXC8N3DvqYCNj5af5lHaI8MtjUE5fCN0TCphdGQdLergmxx95oVNoAs16TP7K1r50cIK02SY-eE9j0os/s1600/IMG_6273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirM2eKtU9p0AygIq2RKDJy8Kb8qtgNeUtkHEPI2XUpYWPJfSV6F88spXVKMvnpXC8N3DvqYCNj5af5lHaI8MtjUE5fCN0TCphdGQdLergmxx95oVNoAs16TP7K1r50cIK02SY-eE9j0os/s640/IMG_6273.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We had a weekend cool- down and a few days that felt so nice, breezy and almost cool, but the hot weather is back. Truthfully, I LOVE IT. I'm a Summer girl for life and as muggy and hot as it gets here, I would take these days over gray snowy ones ANY DAY. When Fall rolls around I'll be all Pumpkin spice love yesssss the best time of year is around the corner but for now, I'm sticking with Summer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm coming at you mid-week with a happy hour hack that's sure to make your 5pm cocktail a little bit sweeter...and easier! My friend April shared this simple syrup tip last week and I don't know why I didn't think of this sooner. Sure, simple syrup is simple enough on the stove, but why not make it simpler by making it in the microwave! Bonus points because you make it right in the mason jar so no need to transfer the mixture for fridge storage. That part is already done for you. I was shocked at how well this worked and how easy it was. Definitely a trick to have up your sleeve in a pinch or when you need a cocktail mixer for an impromptu night with friends.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The best part, is that you can totally add in any fruit and herb infusers that you have on hand which will allow you to get a little creative with your flavors! I did strawberries and jalapeno slices here and it was heavenly! This was extra delicious as a margarita mixer with some Tequila, lime juice seltzer and a splash of the syrup- </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and my sweet pregnant friend also enjoyed it in some orange la croix! Getting creative here, folks and you don't even have to enjoy this with alcohol. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My other favorite way to enjoy a flavored simple syrup is with some Tito's vodka and Spindrift! PSA: If you grocery shop at Harris Teeter, Spindrift is BOGO this week and also $1 back on Ibotta! Not familiar with Ibotta? It's the easiest way to shop and get money back on things you are already buying at the grocery store. Sign up with my referral code </span><a href="https://ibotta.com/r/pabtdug" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">HERE</a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">. (this is not sponsored! I just love using it, love getting cash back every few weeks and want to share with you all!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">All you need is sugar, water, flavor infusers, a mason jar and 90 seconds in the microwave. Boom. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And if you want to do this on the stove the old fashioned way, that works, too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Whether you take a short cut or </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Strawberry Jalapeno Simple Syrup </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 cup water</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 cup sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 jalapeno, thinly sliced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 strawberries, thinly sliced</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In a mason jar, combine the water and sugar. Place in microwave for 90 seconds. If the sugar appears to have not fully dissolved yet, microwave in additional 15 second increments. As soon as no more sugar granules appear present, add in jalapeno and strawberry slices. Let the mixture come to room temperature. Strain out the berries and peppers if you like, or leave them in the mixture. Store in the refrigerator.</span><br />
<br />Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-1447474792070354242018-07-05T13:53:00.000-05:002018-07-05T13:53:23.238-05:00Italian Potato Salad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggQQ5DV-aBoq75b1iJa7zSod-npHZwaSc39abUgJxKmLyKfHYbGQDcvTuT7TIjrPG81yllhpJ4kWRHSxIbjcC8Y1TQgocPgUkdP3p0L3SeJHhuVkZwYARnNKHeCltj3tYgH7FjE3IbNxM/s1600/IMG_6336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggQQ5DV-aBoq75b1iJa7zSod-npHZwaSc39abUgJxKmLyKfHYbGQDcvTuT7TIjrPG81yllhpJ4kWRHSxIbjcC8Y1TQgocPgUkdP3p0L3SeJHhuVkZwYARnNKHeCltj3tYgH7FjE3IbNxM/s640/IMG_6336.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love Summer eating, but what I don't love is feeling full and bloated and just blah from the heat and a big plate filled with ALL THE FOOD. There are so many fresh ingredients available to us in the Summer and along with that comes many ways to lighten it up any way that we can...so we can do things like have an extra glass of wine or save room for an ice cream sandwich, am I right!? It's all about balance, after all. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ditch the heavy mayo based salads and get on board with this super simple Italian style number. It's so much lighter than most potato salads with bright and fun colors that look pretty on any delicious spread. Parsley adds a green punch and it's unique flavor while red peppers offer some sweetness and new texture. I love the simplicity of this dish, using only olive oil as the dressing and letting the fresh herbs and veggies do the rest of the work. Leaving the skin on the potatoes is also a key step! Adds so much more. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I grew up eating this and everytime I make it, it's a huge crowd pleaser. Not your typical potato salad and an unexpected twist on a cookout staple. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I promise if you bring this along to your next get Summer get together, everyone will thank you. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Italian Potato Salad</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3-4 pounds of red skin potatoes, washed with the skin left on</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/4 red onion, thinly sliced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3-4 cloves garlic, minced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">big handful fresh parsley, chopped</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 roasted red peppers, cut into thin strips</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Extra virgin olive oil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Salt and pepper</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wash and chop potatoes into halves or quarters, depending on how big your potatoes are. Boil until you can pierce them easily with a fork, but not so long that they are falling apart. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While the potatoes cook, prep your onion, garlic, parsley and roasted red peppers. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When the potatoes are done, drain and rinse with cool water and let them sit a few minutes to cool off. Cut them into smaller chunks and place into a bowl with the onion, garlic, parsley and roasted red peppers. Drizzle all over with olive oil and season to taste with salt and pepper. Toss it all together and adjust your salt, pepper and olive oil to your liking. Serve at room temperature. </span>Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-38287738952356078192018-07-04T08:00:00.000-05:002018-07-05T13:58:33.596-05:00Happy 4th of July!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Stars and stripes forever! Wishing you all a wonderful holiday and Happy Birthday America! </span></div>
<br />Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-78988748291772364822018-06-29T08:19:00.002-05:002018-06-29T08:19:25.542-05:00Friday Faves<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A quick little edition of Friday faves to kick off the weekend and head into July! </span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I need this <a href="https://www.howsweeteats.com/2018/06/rose-spritz/">Tequila Rose Spritz</a> in my life ASAP. Rose is having a moment right now and I'm loving it more and more. Not going to lie though, the tequila is what sold me on this. Adding to my cocktail que! </span></div>
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<img alt="This tequila rosé spritz cocktail is perfectly refreshing for hot summer nights. A mix between a margarita and spritzer, this starts with muddled strawberries and honey, a shot of tequila and is topped off with your favorite rosé wine! I howsweeteats.com #tequila #rosé #wine #spritz #cocktail #strawberries" height="640" src="https://www.howsweeteats.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/tequila-rose-spritz-I-howsweeteats.com-14.jpg" width="456" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">image via <a href="https://www.howsweeteats.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/tequila-rose-spritz-I-howsweeteats.com-14.jpg">How Sweet Eats</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These <a href="http://www.thedefineddish.com/whole30-buffalo-burger-with-buffalo-mayo/">Buffalo Burgers</a> from The Defined Dish were a great deviation from a basic grilled burger. I used lean ground beef and added some green onions to the meat as well. We ate them on top of arugula with caramelized onions and some roasted okra on the side! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've never made it a secret that I love a good neutral nail color. I recently got this Orly color (<a href="https://amzn.to/2NaBqug">Kiss the Bride</a>) in a gel manicure for a wedding a few weekends ago and I'm in love! I grabbed a regular bottle of it immediately. This color is GOOD. </span></div>
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<img alt="Orly Nail Lacquer, Kiss The Bride, 0.6 Fluid Ounce" src="data:image/webp;base64,UklGRnwMAABXRUJQVlA4IHAMAADwSQCdASosASwBPrFYpEwkIyIjIrRJKIgWCelu4XKRDYZnmofauOQ6R9Ah63aEe0P17zf5vSuF91/3/oK9EvP59WewT0r/Rf/aMU9n3DmlvHUXgjHEnEhMRIuxBVp7OiIJPXy8fHXDLa2RtdrR2dQkUuNlb+MGQPC1ic37ts9qmPjrhl45kbTgyRgZ1M8vj464ZePefThyghE8EfCq4TYKCCUQDoH5AfLLjfpAJXFwz2fcXAKobDD6CvrfsYjaJv4gFi7xcM9n3FmQeeFCYp67295oP943hJakogHQQSV9IOXktVus257F7kKT6/hWLKWSglEA6CCTIR5ThmpQdt1J3kTif+xUx8dcMu/909GIqmS9KfXBv1V1yRYQvKRrM7+aCCRZOCIeIWD/wvHx1wy1kUUeH+bOizmhDRLAS3lR0yGZRBKIB0D8un9FURTZBja21eQwddTTYlbnItdLwQ2HV5gCh2+464Zd/qbhhWKbUijkLq28xSHu76HRbuLFzIXNZnD9HBCEI+JeEEogHQJjUi3tsXWO23piIBRtzfYmy8BieflrT3YaWIOHl+gasCOZRUZFQzwrh8OC7fdBBKIAw5XTEExZPZEjkVYeykfoPiTdAvlszpp+AoBTZmTx4+OuGXf5QnfHNRoh7bpdk8YQcZRAOggkrj37UXYPOp+IxAn2wCi/YzUyjf41KvYl792yOnOSYKF6fMD4aUTK7GGXj462JHqHdx+x6ackIQJqY6scQJ8nnmS4Biv7ysds8w0SpoQYlEA6CCEFDREQ9Yf2Ags1DfFwziAA/v7dMJ7qE8iyuYa4qZqRLm/OeOT4aTTe7qcFwV+MqUmSh5Jf/5Rbn8DvtpS2ACgD6/MTCPZfWw5fgjNUxFQTcRrhUSs6f2nTRclrArR5WZ6pJeu55QAIkOTjkxzD0aeAo4uJdmfr2WOJ0vrlYYXZiWaEMlx3vJpuOa95gVEvSvZoktBMlHWAsXFzjgkVh1wJT+IGQMOx2x8FyOnVJzZ8GD0bul/drwd6OaY3ef03nvENtMjlsCm23c5WA3PuZu9cC8sEcPF47ejXMTy+FkXJa7dh7/eKE7pGc1PHTIYRMswfFB7XzJBjS94MPzLPX/FEFK1fI+ipPnnTt60XQWCFsZcKV5QmonH+3BJhjRtBQMoVPmDqC8Vfa1CJxeO2nSdZVAE0S49hOMG91uzoX3jUn4CDxEwPeZ1TR5JkkkXqqLYaFKW4H7ONlHZajA1B12tBD5SYgDe8UYOPazXAJPpy3S91RDbTbi7zRfSKKAWfJ7ge5HlPiUF/uOPgxbefx9/tnq3qTH++cVgcLtoHDOJWl1JVODe58ys21XCJxUcNXWjonZPcOIhxHNsxq/su4VmTL1fAHEdQINiLSMi+VqSAMCU48EW+ImteCAVgqwNR/sMnWOkvweb9UISpXStYSDRB91Humy5L2iJg0hdBETnE7DtcmfhSjqEZjhQB+EbGWD1UCebxvYH9dIijdObYQAssmsF13OPrk5rKRi2E9sdXsC98bMS+X66wKm5iZ7CuhvhQ8EMrQCn0QkZk4ERvf7Pudk1st65D0X1XQRejDC7SRmDecgOr8v0ol3DB09RjFpy2z1e9W6TO1CZM4Ys2/QFHsC520kbv81m03wLtCsrl4epsp6oH4zybDt+m2TihUaJ3JpWXK2oc5Jf/kn5K86WOMzNvGiSABXrRyKrMKtKFc3+w63K1ySsfg5B+Qfz4KAjuRXfo4sjVhGiy8+EkW3YsHa/wb1+skhc3baBI8c0bnumE+nA7Z8oxCOy8yiiUPnLpsrcD2aTbBuQTeAgPupQAvvPf9vjQp7aXVoR34aHs5vtIOHsDSsv3rhZg+EopsmPAI6/SoUbsjT9q40ldcUm7gIao+T2UP/FNjylpwF18sFuXKX0DZyjtDSxBvDmeq8VxQBeeREJUSZBrqP+5NPmV2dhkozS8utlOGT5gYTGGxra8oxz2qyQj6w+5iyyB2jJuFXGbmdr4sVqw27DuFBYVGHwnviuwp9mH9uzXZxHktH86ezu4Rdwfe1yZfHQpkxZrhg/CXiMbZoJmmwe6vHV9JlkqxWo5/EdW6m7N9JKlAtvxFjLJafJFfaYBanMKjyLLmoZsDc0R1UQoEDR2LL4Ctz/LJyTHeg38LwQKZjz1/nr0POaxjW8jJz5j2+tiUqeXwvUHTlr5cGDojLIx5KoI79BU2Gr24IQ9HJyoLvnyaMMxozNWOK3KqcJ11J269Y+/XEmHgwmccj+UXj8AnlH3L59Ge/XltBLTe0BhidhERxb5VfRYxcS7S3CE3pFzKmFqQUaavSW0ttQrpNysuZc1pPw3KgjZ76pGrOFVtHMmpfGJrt10llVVEm8KEKbZ8QlcYB4YX1sMkk+J/OBkNUABU96UxpPZgSC8ronR+VilCPzkM0Oj9b4bHydhPMWtJxBs45ep0vSyRwzbsgP9wrDKNv/2k67rUZRi1Ahuehf0BaQnQtiPE+5klXv5NhBs6/fSlKaRFuW9qJfvLQPqG2ojZs/a51SV/thm6Jc3lIp+OFNH8EEV8R7aQLStj0pn++ErGszag5IsmwOYN0+R3FgW2wZFpysR/lSCyM75Td++vLRIrRD/uvHXcUkoRmVQc0QX48YbdqQPFDjelbIlvtk+deq16xo/Ne/lavht+n9OHXYoFNcQbZ58etrcGeOSaZCI5dQTUT3QAYj1u722LpVSN+Tn7YIKUQlQvhjRgK1pxTWuGrro9hTM7BQbTam56kV9dSdyGRpU2by2veR6pqcQ5TboxLnL8GvV/MLWcMEnx+UXkZK6YL3FX8g3YofD/fdOpER6hKKrZxaojkPiKBUOL5uOiCdnqvDQZEKAAJkDq2N5aqzGpcho+H4R+i3sBVhNSgBWyOLmu0yHSTe0uggdh72p0J1jd7xvaifArctI+eQu8o1/8QZAXt1mUkr+Ht3wkqSvkj+1bFXfYuVNUYe6pTJn2OQcM312UfJfyjBlbjScVEzP+EF886qeoq1fTPjgDit5lDzYhoXDYu98hkKRzGay05spv7bnzafaB6v/wtcF+oM+DZVO/J5JwbFfZ83guAnJ/Y+lOHvnB73T5+XIz4iqqbRWJ4AEju+RlPv2oJoyCNi9TlpdrMOKaP/R79+Pvy5DRTrL8sxJLzz0k8Vr/jRBauMeNvPBek87Sfs7y84H8Q+oHGfhB5qyzIL5U8QwhlXfgxIp7RC3v6HDzOdhNbHDsYTLmb8g9AN7wYZWNmR64RJfKaW3SAu0v3Nab/6JKOuLGonBkxL57IBiNO7BGwnPElwv05xKfZDwAibZqFGgBnnyiYqJyWsZPP+O76OpWUxWzK+JEzG1+5rGbW8+JQ0c3s7UfvZKcL8501HTymkST/OjPghuXYQ91d4qLKwIw8a2WpYvmXnCUQTPfOW74GG8bMceX6oDS0EdXJeOd+zsKKbxN1KCwNnezd5WpvElbxDb9/fU0sJ63OkPgnsCh91zAgNXF1oHCyEXvtndFNq8rvWh07UxH49rRytjdqFMya/c/iGbrf+2MbLzjmz8VXATA7Rjf3SW+6g3HbODOsh8Uc7KBsMjkXJBGgzyrRSzBGv28hiXWquLYtCgI78UBbk/9nvJCRfmcALWQ0vk6aVbNVNqtqjhex5tuK+spwcNaaNa1Av8LgedDI0MKjtzldSL9kbe/2OyiLQoZoOJ7zE/bAMPyw+H4V+n1xo94g252ls1hB9/JnbWau2Ta5jWSwhZ6ksXpc9x2QOv+w5wlWyLBKAbTSH3fB2ZBcVeADJdKqrnWpNvkeBBfCifh9LgjZuCqmxw/Vjkxlm4a3G8A5Jqf52jQgeUH++Pi0Y8DFz8rffzTKDOmOr+koYWHA75x+8K6IFQE6XSEzIUqFxqf/ud+jveRfmmvy6FYnaCciBoFoPMcb3Ry4oNzWRfcf0FQpV5ZPIkgdqikEIemD5oCar6ioqN4/El3FnSWIkG0dd5qn5QMSQsx+Zj8SPDe33CL/tCJ27J5z9KaSGf7bq7E5tII3iZoz1tW9+DtuIrkAYOW0J4Em4wnrt1i/rNchsOba6tGe3PjUCihvYKHitFduwDqP9OYC0nXhxiASv2CM+ArfptEtWUfRbnTI5Q9WaMmLfotP1szrM7+nqUkdIorUsLInUydnEm3ooIXwi/AgUf4k0FroA6JR9bB0npLtpzz63tMpaH9SAIOndPZjTxaS7yuWbOM6Aj/FiXZ5UjZu5wBO3i4AAA" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Meet my afternoon dream team. This Starbucks iced coffee from the grocery store refrigerator section is all kinds of magic. I don't know what they put in it but I think it's a hundred times better than the iced coffee from an actual Starbucks store. I love it with a splash of half and half and lately have been adding a quick pour of the Trader Joe's Cold Brew Coconut for a little island flavor. Seriously the best.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These <a href="http://www.beautycounter.com/ninamoore">Beautycounter</a> products have been game changers for my skin- especially the Cleansing Balm and Countermatch Sleep Recovery Cream. These are both SO GOOD. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">WE HAVE BLUEBERRIES! Our favorite neighbors moved and we transplanted their blueberry bush to our house. It's been moved twice now so I was a little worried about it but we've been getting a good handful of berries. It doesn't make up for all of the berries I buy at the store every week, but it's fun to have our own homegrown blueberries! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hope everyone enjoys another wonderful Summer weekend! </span></div>
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Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-25100877902072711612018-06-28T15:46:00.002-05:002018-06-28T15:46:19.552-05:00Pan Seared Tuna with Coconut Aminos, Ginger, Jalapeno + Lime<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">GIVE ME ALL THE SEAFOOD. I would eat fish every night if I could. I'm obsesed with sushi and I fell into a deep deep love with ceviche while we were on our honeymoon in Turks and Caicos in 2010. When I crave fish, I almost always want that sushi-soy flavor to go with it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you like fish and fresh Summer flavors, there is nothing not to love about this recipe. I made it on Monday night and cannot wait to make it again. Fresh wild caught tuna was on mega sale at my Harris Teeter this week so I pounced. My sister's fiance made it over the weekend and when they sent me a picture, I immediately started drooling and saved the recipe.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This meal is restaurant quality and SO SIMPLE. Perfect meal to treat yourself with during the week or enjoy on the weekend while entertaining friends. It's that good. I like my tuna on the rare side, but you can sear it longer on both sides to cook it through. Either way, the flavors are bright and intense. I just can't stop thinking about the tuna! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Obsessed with this dinner is an understatement. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Pan Seared Tuna with Coconut Aminos, Ginger, Jalapeno + Lime</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>recipe adapted from Tyler Florence</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 handfuls cilantro leaves, chopped</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 jalapeno, sliced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 clove garlic, minced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 limes, juiced (about 4 Tbsp. lime juice)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 Tbsp. coconut aminos</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">kosher salt + freshly ground pepper</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 tuna steaks or medallions (sushi quality)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 ripe avocado, sliced</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In a mixing bowl, combine cilantro, jalapeno slices, garlic, lime juice, coconut aminos and 2 Tablespoons of the olive oil. Stir to combine. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Place a cast iron skillet on medium-high heat and add the remaining 2 Tablespoons of olive oil. Season the tuna generously on both sides with salt and pepper. Transfer tuna steaks to the pan of hot oil and sear for 1 minute on each side (longer to cook the tuna through). This will form a light crust. Pour half of the cilantro mixture over the tuna in the pan to coat the fish. Serve with the remaining cilantro sauce and fresh sliced avocado. </span>Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-6827347546221499142018-06-27T08:02:00.000-05:002018-06-27T08:02:05.594-05:00Spiked Spa Water<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRmUVzQjI7vIxqur_L92cWZJ7WPqcgzO_-UvwaW_JxD1C6L-ZcM_z2X9ureOh2RzyObh6uhIL8Vpaq0vYBfbQLaY6aADNcQF302b679feHLSIVHT1LupZl9frgay1bv3_8gNMVNj2BqU4/s1600/IMG_5957.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRmUVzQjI7vIxqur_L92cWZJ7WPqcgzO_-UvwaW_JxD1C6L-ZcM_z2X9ureOh2RzyObh6uhIL8Vpaq0vYBfbQLaY6aADNcQF302b679feHLSIVHT1LupZl9frgay1bv3_8gNMVNj2BqU4/s640/IMG_5957.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Apparently #TitosTuesday is a thing and since I meant to post this little cocktail recipe yesterday, let's just pretend it's still Tuesday. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Summertime happy hours are my favorite. We eat later dinners and spend lots of time outdoors during that chunk of time between afternoon naps and when it's time to start cooking. Around the fire pit on our outdoor patio is my favorite spot to sit. It's so easy to grab a quick glass of wine or an icy cold beer from the beverage fridge, but lately I've been super into this little Tito's concoction. It's light and refreshing and I won't call it "healthy", but it's certainly a cleaner beverage option- and we are loving it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Just a little Spindrift, lime/lemon, some mint if you have it and a splash of Tito's- that's it! I've done this with many of the Spindrift flavors, but the cucumber is just the best. Tastes just little spa water...with an upgrade.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Spiked Spa Water</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 oz. Tito's vodka</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">wedge of fresh lime</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Spindrift Cucumber </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mint leaves, torn and muddled</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Start with a wedge of lime and squeeze it into the bottom of your glass. Add mint leaves and muddle them a bit. Pour in 2 oz. of vodka and finish with a pour of Spindrift- more to water it down and less for a stronger drink. Give it a quick stir and add finish with ice and another wedge of lime or lemon. </span>Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com50tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-45010957574898166122018-06-22T08:09:00.002-05:002018-06-22T08:09:38.354-05:00Summer Strawberry + Avocado Salad with Prosecco Vinaigrette<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjllchxsbasW0vchiADQjebo3JzNQecTgJ2Icmv9914olLdJOBAPjI7RZUWyWNzfdbJcn90aadus5jBeLnw1f6wkfdFi8KynaUNyIHeXEB922sW4dhjLjDmdSr0WZDxMVL3E_UOyVBSVtM/s1600/IMG_5201.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjllchxsbasW0vchiADQjebo3JzNQecTgJ2Icmv9914olLdJOBAPjI7RZUWyWNzfdbJcn90aadus5jBeLnw1f6wkfdFi8KynaUNyIHeXEB922sW4dhjLjDmdSr0WZDxMVL3E_UOyVBSVtM/s640/IMG_5201.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Every season is salad season in our house, but there is something so extra tasty and fresh about salads in the Summer. I love the simple cooking that comes in the Summer. Grilling some meat or fish and making a giant salad filled to the brim with goodness to go on the side. Easy, satisfying and on the lighter side for these Summer scorcher days. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is my current Summer salad crush and we've been having some version of this at least once a week. I looooove the combination of the strawberries and avocado and the crispy bites of bacon are just the best. I don't always add corn but when I do, it adds a whole new level of flavor. This salad is great on it's own as a side, or add some grilled chicken, shrimp or salmon for a full meal. So much flavor going on here!! And I don't know how I ended up with Prosecco vinegar in my pantry instead of champagne vinegar, but dare I say I'll be buying the prosecco again and again. The dressing is the icing on the cake here. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ENJOY!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Summer Strawberry + Avocado Salad</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5 oz. container of your favorite salad greens (I like half baby greens mix and half arugula)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5-6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 avocado, diced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 cup sliced strawberries</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 cobs corn, cooked and the kernels cut off</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Assemble all ingredients in a large salad bowl and toss with prosecco vinaigrette to combine. Serve immediately.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Prosecco Vinaigrette</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Juice of 1 lemon</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 Tbsp. prosecco vinegar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 cloves garlic, minced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 cup olive oil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">kosher salt and pepper to taste</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk to combine. Add salt and pepper to taste to your liking. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-33044629120213775402018-06-20T07:44:00.002-05:002018-06-20T07:44:58.447-05:00Vegan Vanilla Cupcakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNbNK60uj5CNepFG9g2OecpP20wcawmJrURpB1v2TRg1odV6m7JEstdXLCjZVvJe3JJ2L0HYajj-ymR7ZULtulx2mctl6ippnWCbQ_RRvDsSg-9LtFISsWF3vtSwtp2QZkmkXfTAKM-GI/s1600/IMG_4746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNbNK60uj5CNepFG9g2OecpP20wcawmJrURpB1v2TRg1odV6m7JEstdXLCjZVvJe3JJ2L0HYajj-ymR7ZULtulx2mctl6ippnWCbQ_RRvDsSg-9LtFISsWF3vtSwtp2QZkmkXfTAKM-GI/s640/IMG_4746.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I feel like we are always in a season of TREATS. It's like there's always a reason to celebrate something and treats are always a MUST. I have a long list of favorites and go-to recipes when these occasions arise but when I needed a dairy free recipe last month for a preschool birthday celebration, I was up for the challenge.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is a first for me- these cupcakes are completely vegan! We aren't going vegan in this house but I've never made a vegan dessert before and this recipe is too good not to share. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I made this recipe for Will's class to accommodate some allergies and will definitely keep this recipe as my go to next time I need something allergy friendly! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The key to the frosting is letting the dairy free butter come to room temperature. DO NOT MELT IT. I have a little trick of microwaving dairy butter in 5 second increments to get it to room temperature quickly, but do not do this with the vegan butter. It melts quickly and then your frosting will be toast. Trust me when I say to take the time and let it come to room temperature on it's own. Your frosting will be creamy and dreamy- pinky swear! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">The texture of the cake is rich and dense and since the amount of vanilla in the recipe is on the larger side, the flavor is super vanilla-y! </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Classic vanilla cupcakes with a vegan twist- you won't even miss the dairy</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">P.S. Don't skimp on the sprinkles! (to keep these 100% vegan, make sure you are using sprinkles that don't contain dairy- check the ingredients list)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Vegan Vanilla Cupcakes</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>recipe adapted from <a href="https://www.babble.com/best-recipes/the-best-vegan-cupcakes-ever/">Babble</a></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Makes 10-12 cupcakes</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">1 cup Flour</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">2 tsp. baking powder</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">pinch salt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 cup sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">1/4 cup flavorless oil (I used canola- grapeseed or safflower would work, too)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3/4 cup non-dairy milk (I used Ripple plant based milk)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 Tbsp. vanilla </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Preheat oven to 365 degrees. Line a cupcake tin with 10-12 liners. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, combine flour, baking powder, salt and sugar and mix until combined. Add remaining ingredients (oil, non dairy milk, vanilla and apple cider vinegar) and beat on medium speed until no clumps remain. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fill the cupcake liners with batter 3/4 to the top. Bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick/cake tester comes out clean. The cupcakes should bounce back slightly when pressed. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Let cool completely before frosting.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Vegan Vanilla Buttercream Frosting</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 cups powdered sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 cup vegan butter, room temperature (I used Earth's Balance brand)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 tsp. vanilla </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">in the bowl of an electric mixer using a paddle attachment, beat butter until soft and fluffy, 2-3 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed. Turn speed down to low and slowly add the powdered sugar. Turn the speed up to medium-high and beat until light and fluffy, another 2-3 minutes. If the mixture seems too wet, add in a little more powdered sugar as needed. Transfer frosting to piping bag and frost!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span>Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-14334798895308757212018-06-13T07:26:00.002-05:002018-06-13T15:45:52.899-05:00June Cookbook Club: Skinnytaste Fast and Slow<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Good morning! And how are we already into mid-June?! The summer days are slow and easy but time still seems to speed by. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For the June edition of Cookbook Club, <a href="http://www.keyingredients.me/">Allie</a> and I chose a book by one of our favorite food bloggers, <a href="https://amzn.to/2Mny06J">Fast and Slow by Gina Homolka</a> of <a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/">Skinnytaste</a>. I love love love this book and I love Gina even more. She is one of the very first food blogs that I started reading and still remains one of my favorites. Her recipes are wholesome, healthy and super family friendly! I'm confident that anyone who frequents her blog or owns any of her cookbooks will tell you the same. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I love Gina's approach to cooking so much. Her recipes never lack flavor and I've never made anything of hers that disappointed. Fast and Slow is filled with recipes that come together quickly as well as ones that cook all day in the slow cooker- all things that are especially appreciated during the busy weeknights that we all seem to have! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm pulling out an old recipe from my archives to share with you all from the book because it's one I seriously go back to over and over again. I have made so many things out of this cookbook but the Caulflower Potato Tacos have been my favorite by far. It's such an unexpected combo of ingredients and flavors which is why I think we love it so much. I've only actually made these as tacos twice, but the cauliflower potato mixture is on regular rotation on our dinner menu as a side! The flavor is unbelievable and the addition of the Lime-Cilantro Chutney takes it to another level. We love this dish so much! Perfect for a meatless Monday or using the cauliflower potato mixture as a flavorful side like we do most times. You can find this recipe on an older post <a href="http://www.peacelovegoodfood.com/2017/08/skinnytastes-cauliflower-potato-tacos.html">HERE</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here are a few other favorites from this cookbook!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I especially love panzanella salad in the Summer and this one is DELICIOUS! Especially with farmer's market or garden fresh tomatoes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Cold Peanut- Sesame Chicken and Spiralized Cucumber Noodle Salad- this is RIDICULOUS. So good, light and fresh for Summer! I pick up a rotisserie chicken when I made this meal and will often times sub in almond butter for the peanut butter and it's just as delicious. The dressing is my favorite part of this and I always like to make a little extra to dip veggies in as a snack!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you follow any Whole30 or Paleo bloggers, you know that eggroll bowls are all the rage right now. I've tried several and this is the best recipe I've found. It comes together seamlessly and in no time at all.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I cannot recommend this book enough. I've had it for over a year now and it is still front and center when I grab a stack of books to look through as I meal plan on Sundays. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Don't forget to link your favorite recipe from the book below! We are taking a break from Cookbook Club for the Summer but will likely pick it back up again in the fall. If you have any book ideas or books that you want to see featured, leave it in the comments below. Happy Cooking!</span></div>
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Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-45957303223000631042018-06-11T20:44:00.002-05:002018-06-11T20:44:54.150-05:00Loving Lately + Fitness Inspo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Summer is in full swing over here and we are loving these carefree days and a break from the everyday schedule. It's been nice to spend mornings at the pool, eat later dinners and just be outside! (as long as it's not 1000 degrees!) As every season changes there's something I love about each one but really, Summer is my favorite. Also...PEONY SEASON! Freaking out over these gorgeous flowers like everyone else on social media but really, I cannot resist when I see a giant display of them at this tome of year. </span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A few things I'm loving lately...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I went back to my beloved <a href="https://amzn.to/2JzTNGM">Neutrogena</a> for a summertime face and it's like being back with an old friend- the kind you pick right back up where you left off with. It's smooth and light and feels great on my face. I like minimal face makeup in the Summer and this stuff is perfect. The Neutrogena Healthy Face Tinted Moisturizer was my go-to for 10 years and now I'm wondering why I ever switched! I still love the it Cosmetics CC Cream but I think that will be more of a Fall/Winter product for me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have found my new health and nutrition guru and I'm completely on board with this way of eating and structuring my meals. Kelly Leveque is a celebrity health and wellness consultant with all of the right information. She has a science and medical background and truly knows her stuff. Her approach is simple and makes so much sense. Protein, fat, fiber and greens are her "fab four" and the way she explains it in her book couldn't be easier to understand. For a quick intro to her approach with food, I recommend listening to her interview on Rachel Hollis's podcast, <a href="https://www.daispodcast.com/listen/">Dais</a> from this past April. It's FULL of so much good info. A few friends recommended this specific interview to me and I ordered Kelly's Book, <a href="https://amzn.to/2y1IRjL">Body Love</a>, immediately after listening. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My sisters and I started Annie Downs's 100 Days to Brave and it's so good. It's the perfect daily devotional and I love the premise of it all. I read Annie's book Let's All Be Brave a few years ago and re-read it again recently. So much goodness in that book and the devotional is proving to have more of the same. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Did you know George Clooney has his own brand of Tequila? Well, he does and it's amazing. <a href="https://casamigostequila.com/">Casamigos</a> on the rocks with a little lime seltzer and a wedge of lime is EVERYTHING. Get on it! The backstory on this easy drinking stuff is great, too! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My workout game has been strong lately and I feel like I'm in a good groove. I enjoy exercising and getting sweaty and really working hard. I also enjoy mixing it up and have found over the years that I can't do the same thing every day. Earlier this Spring, I went back to my beloved BBG Guides by <a href="http://www.kaylaitsines.com/">Kayla Itsines</a> and 3.5 years later, I'm still convinced that these are some of the best home workouts that you can do. When I track myself with progress doing these workouts and really focus on my eating, I see great results. Bonus points because it's super convenient for busy moms with young kids. I amped up my BBG workouts recently and started adding more running intervals in between. Our home gym makes this easy whether I get up and workout before my kids wakeup, or if I sneak in a naptime sweat sesh. We don't have a treadmill in our garage (yet), but our driveway is fairly long and I'll do 3-5 minute running intervals up and down the driveway. I'm sure my neighbors thing I look like a hamster, but it gets the job done! All this to say- do what works for you and be consistent! Also- you can't outwork a bad diet so really, all of this starts in the kitchen, too. And water. Lots and lots of water- especially in these hot Summer months! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Make it a wonderful week, everyone!! </span></div>
Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-20013746122881953972018-05-15T15:01:00.001-05:002018-05-15T15:01:24.422-05:00Markaritas!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What goes well with Tacos on a Tuesday!? Margaritas! Duh. Or in our case, the ever popular Markarita. No, really. Pulling this deliciousness out of the archives because Summer is around the corner and I wish I had these on tap. This is one of my most popular recipes to date and definitely one of the top five recipes requested by all of my real life friends and family. I've always loved margaritas but I came to the realization recently that I think I love them so much because Mark and I drank them on our first date! And here we are still sipping away on these things.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Back when we started reading a ton of Paleo books and blogs, we learned that Tequila is one of the better liquor choices. While all alcohol isn't necessarily "paleo approved", Tequila is a cleaner option because instead of being made with grains, it comes from the agave plant. This is why when you're buying your tequila, make sure it's made with 100% agave as some will have fillers like sugar and grain additives. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don't claim that this is a healthy cocktail, but it's certainly a smarter option for happy hour- and I promise you won't miss the crazy amounts of sugary sweet mixers. Fresh lime juice is stellar but when you don't have time to squeeze ALL THOSE LIMES, I found a great organic lime juice at Harris Teeter with an impressive ingredients list of only one thing: organic limes! It was delicious. While these can be made in larger quantities and served to a crowd in a pitcher, I still prefer to make these margaritas one at a time! They are just so good. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Enjoy your Taco Tuesday!!! With a Markarita please. (and don't forget the salt rim!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 oz. tequila</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 oz. fresh lime juice</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tsp. organic raw agave or honey</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">lime seltzer water </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I like to serve these in lowball rocks glasses. Start by measuring out the tequila and lime juice and pour into the glasses. Add in the agave (or sweetener of choice) and mix with a bar whisk. Finish what a pour of seltzer and add ice, then garnish with a lime wedge. </span>Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-35499550088610922222018-05-14T15:49:00.001-05:002018-05-14T15:51:19.059-05:00Fresh Strawberry Pie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Strawberry season is here and we finally made our way down to the Strawberry patch near our house last week. Will and Kate were alllll about it and actually did a great job of finding the ripe red berries. Miss Kate was insistent on carrying her basket the entire time, no matter how heavy it got. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAx5Ys44yRr5yAZOIj5AZXGMWNVjZzQYIHJxGC_GYNPs_NfRWwZyXf_7vbsTRBFv5_A8ZlbVN7zZ6HlJZrWcjQYD8sRUB8YqR41Rxl9xOYv7Btr4vWB1DQWE9UhMmEaIZEbDeKXey25Wg/s1600/IMG_4535.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAx5Ys44yRr5yAZOIj5AZXGMWNVjZzQYIHJxGC_GYNPs_NfRWwZyXf_7vbsTRBFv5_A8ZlbVN7zZ6HlJZrWcjQYD8sRUB8YqR41Rxl9xOYv7Btr4vWB1DQWE9UhMmEaIZEbDeKXey25Wg/s200/IMG_4535.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2vCkI2Cxbwk1Iix-4C1OcOE5mWHQXD9bei2watNtp8GwKsGqUcMHqLqdYmPD-AlwCMQ4iQAnZa-HcMFA_hW4py6ZbMxvIDwyLbEey_HLommgA4bjLFMHz6j_nNvPXQzGllUwnB2HEegk/s1600/IMG_4534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2vCkI2Cxbwk1Iix-4C1OcOE5mWHQXD9bei2watNtp8GwKsGqUcMHqLqdYmPD-AlwCMQ4iQAnZa-HcMFA_hW4py6ZbMxvIDwyLbEey_HLommgA4bjLFMHz6j_nNvPXQzGllUwnB2HEegk/s200/IMG_4534.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd-axID9Tg5l15VEM97uWd1RH5k9mrrn5RS-7KzN0cS8kMoB2X75dBOarFvOKDELQ9AsUgFb7kDPnPylS04nY8ApbsPBAdYUwQukQDbxiYbMFYpY2z2SFc2ZLChUQA1s8858nXLL1wd7Q/s1600/IMG_4549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd-axID9Tg5l15VEM97uWd1RH5k9mrrn5RS-7KzN0cS8kMoB2X75dBOarFvOKDELQ9AsUgFb7kDPnPylS04nY8ApbsPBAdYUwQukQDbxiYbMFYpY2z2SFc2ZLChUQA1s8858nXLL1wd7Q/s200/IMG_4549.JPG" width="150" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As soon as we got in the car, Will told me that we needed to make a pie because it was his favorite. NEWS TO ME. I NEVER make pies but when he said that's what he wanted to make, we made a pit stop at Harris Teeter on the way home for a few ingredients that we didn't have. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Starting the week off on a sweet note with this yumminess. This pie is one of my favorites and I pulled it out of the blog archives from our Illinois days. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My mom always makes a blueberry version in the Summer and this Strawberry one is just as delicious. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I posted this </span><a href="http://www.peacelovegoodfood.com/2012/06/fresh-berry-pie.html" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fresh Berry Pie</a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> back in 2012 and all that's different is that this pie only uses strawberries and I used strawberry JELL-O instead of mixed berry for the glaze. The freshly picked berries make this pie extra delicious, but what I love most about this pie recipe is the flaky, slightly sweet crush. The berry glaze seeps into that bottom and is just so good- the most perfect Springtime dessert!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Fresh Strawberry Pie</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Preheat oven to 450 degrees</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Crust:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2 cup canola oil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 Tbsp. milk</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1.5 cups all purpose flour</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1.5 Tbsp. sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 tsp. salt</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mix flour, sugar and salt together in a mixing bowl and set aside. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together canola oil and milk. Slowly add the flour mixture to the oil mixture. Mix until it becomes thick and dough-like, then transfer to a 9" pie dish. Starting from the center of the dish, spread the crust until it is covering the entire dish in an even layer. Bake crust for 7-10 minutes, or until crust starts to brown. Let cool.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wash and dry berries, then slice and place inside the crust. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Filling:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 quarts fresh strawberries, sliced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3 Tbsp. cornstarch</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3.5 Tbsp. Strawberry JELL-O</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 cup sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 1/4 cups water</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Combine starch, JELL-O, water and sugar in a small bowl and set aside. In a small saucepan, bring water to a boil. Slowly add the JELL-O mixture stirring constantly with a whisk. Return to a boil and keep it there for one minute. Remove from the heat and let cool. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Drizzle topping over berries and refrigerate for 4-5 hours to let the pie set before serving. </span><br />
<br />Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6033655600092488386.post-4946423213204952252018-05-11T07:00:00.000-05:002018-05-11T07:00:08.424-05:00Friday Faves<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">HAPPY FRI-YAY! It's been a fun filled busy week over here! We celebrated Mark's birthday last weekend with family and the two of us even got to sneak away on Sunday for a day date to the PGA golf tournament that was being held here in Charlotte. I'm a golf fan by marriage and we had the best day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I attended a special Mother's Day Brunch at Will's preschool yesterday and it was just about the sweetest thing ever. They walked us to our seats, sang a few sweet songs and served us our brunch! I wasn't prepared and totally forgot to bring kleenex. Such a fun little morning with my boy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here are some of my favorite finds for the week:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Spindrift cocktails are my jam right now! I especially like that it's a "cleaner" cocktail option, especially during the week! So perfect for Summer and they have tons of ideas listed <a href="https://spindriftfresh.com/top-off-spindrift-cocktails-mocktails-volume/">HERE</a> on their site. My favorite is Tito's vodka, a splash of cucumber Spindrift and some lime. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I love a good neutral nail color and I recently added this one to my collection! (<a href="https://amzn.to/2G3B2Jj">Essie- Lighten the Mood!)</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Currently reading: <a href="https://amzn.to/2rxaEmw">Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis</a>. I'm obsessed! So much goodness in these pages and I want to go back and reread it with a highlighter! #nerdalert</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Not sure how this happened, but I've turned into a garden lover. I have big plans for our yard but I started out with outdoor planters and pots. Next up, Hydrangea bushes, maybe some peonies and hopefully a little herb garden situation that we can use this Summer! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I used this <a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/scaling-back-2524761/roasted-cauliflower-tomato-chickpea-bowl-4337880803">Roasted Cauliflower, Tomato and Chick Pea Bowl</a> as my dinner inspiration last night! I added some pesto to the roasted veggies and topped it all with some Italian sausage. So easy and good! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I made a quick batch of pesto this week and have plenty leftover so this <a href="https://www.runningtothekitchen.com/sun-dried-tomato-pesto-stuffed-flank-steak/">pesto stuffed flank steak</a> is calling my name! Adding it to our weekend menu for sure. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://withsaltandwit.com/vanilla-espresso-almond-butter-energy-bites/">Vanilla Espresso Almond Butter Energy Bites</a>- YES! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you've never made the <a href="http://www.peacelovegoodfood.com/2013/02/the-new-york-times-chocolate-chip.html">New York Times Chocolate Chip Cookies</a>...well, then I'll leave that right here. </span></div>
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Ninahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657368184797656675noreply@blogger.com0