tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64388344630676976232024-03-14T12:53:34.210-05:00The Weekend GourmetOne Texas Cook's Big-Flavor Adventures! In the Kitchen...and On the Road!The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.comBlogger1479125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-88220958674667882662024-03-14T12:52:00.002-05:002024-03-14T12:52:59.074-05:00Best of The Weekend Gourmet: No-Bake Easter Egg Mini Cakes #easterdessert #nobakedessert #kidfriendlybaking #easterfun<p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pKeXPj3YT74/WOwye1Er-WI/AAAAAAAAWzo/K5jx6ch_H3smpIAweKc47EhUASqmm5jSQCLcB/s1600/egg6.jpg" style="background-color: white; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="552" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pKeXPj3YT74/WOwye1Er-WI/AAAAAAAAWzo/K5jx6ch_H3smpIAweKc47EhUASqmm5jSQCLcB/s640/egg6.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25.6px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 26.6667px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I’m sharing a fun Easter treat today -- one that’s no-bake simple to make ahead of your Easter celebrations! I shared these versatile and festive No-Bake Easter Egg Mini Cakes a few years ago. They went viral then...so I'm sharing them again this year! The secret to these no-bake cakes? F</span></span><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">rozen pound cake cut with an egg-shaped cookie cutter! </span><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">My mini cakes come in two flavors: peanut butter and chocolate hazelnut. The cakes are topped with cute Easter candies for simple no-fuss decorating. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25.6px;"><br /><a name='more'></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25.6px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;"><span style="line-height: 26.6667px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"><i><b>No-Bake Easter Egg Mini Cakes</b></i></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25.6px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;"><span style="line-height: 26.6667px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>inspired by<i> Woman’s Day</i></b></span></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eBlJGJhnLXk/WOwrDH0nNKI/AAAAAAAAWzc/NJVb4BniNvkT2muK4Df9FLzmvsVJhJgcACEw/s1600/egg5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="564" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eBlJGJhnLXk/WOwrDH0nNKI/AAAAAAAAWzc/NJVb4BniNvkT2muK4Df9FLzmvsVJhJgcACEw/s640/egg5.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25.6px;"><span style="line-height: 26.6667px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><b><i><u>Ingredients (makes three two-serving cakes)</u>:</i></b></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25.6px;"><ul><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">1 family-size frozen pound cake, thawed</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">1.5 cups milk chocolate candy melts + 1/3 cup whipping cream</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 package white chocolate candy melts </span><span style="font-size: large;">+ 1/3 cup whipping cream [NOTE: I used candy melts with pastel Spring pastel sprinkles]</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">For garnish: colorful rainbow sprinkles, peanut butter eggs, miniature chocolate bunnies, and other assorted Easter candy of your choice</span></li></ul><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i><span><u>For the buttercream fillings</u>:</span></i><br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">1 stick butter, softened to room temperature</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">3 cups powdered sugar</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">1 tsp. good-quality vanilla extract</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">1/3 cup crunchy peanut butter (Batch 1)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/3 cup chocolate-hazelnut spread (Batch 2)</span><span style="line-height: 26.6667px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><u><br /></u></i></b></span></span></span></li></ul></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25.6px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="line-height: 26.6667px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><b><i><u>Directions</u>:</i></b></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25.6px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 26.6667px;"><span><b><i>Step 1:</i></b> Using a serrated knife, carefully remove the crust from the exterior of the thawed pound cake. Cut the pound cake in half horizontally, making two even layers. Use a 3-inch egg-shaped cookie cutter to cut three pieces of cake from each layer...you will have six pieces total. Freeze the scraps that remain in a plastic zip-top bag for another use.</span></span><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BS4aWC11Qic/WOwq7-C_gzI/AAAAAAAAWzc/Ub-MQADeKwgVUoKyWngw0UhrUGulCqdFACEw/s1600/egg1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BS4aWC11Qic/WOwq7-C_gzI/AAAAAAAAWzc/Ub-MQADeKwgVUoKyWngw0UhrUGulCqdFACEw/s640/egg1.jpg" width="536" /></span></a></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25.6px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 26.6667px;"><span><b><i>Step 2:</i></b> Make the buttercream fillings by combining the butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a mixing bowl. Divide this mixture into two equal portions. Add the peanut butter to half of the buttercream, and stir well to combine. Add the chocolate hazelnut spread to the remaining buttercream and combine. Spread the peanut butter buttercream on two pound cake pieces, and spread the chocolate-hazelnut spread on one pound cake piece. Top with the three remaining pound cake pieces to make three two-layer cakes. </span></span><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kUNZmTJ4Zws/WOwq7bmk-4I/AAAAAAAAWzc/wCx-3sfpdxgxIR0IXe5a97DiGGiYv7YWQCEw/s1600/egg2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="324" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kUNZmTJ4Zws/WOwq7bmk-4I/AAAAAAAAWzc/wCx-3sfpdxgxIR0IXe5a97DiGGiYv7YWQCEw/s640/egg2.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25.6px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 26.6667px;"><span><b><i>Step 3:</i></b> Place the three mini cakes on a wire rack over parchment paper. Heat the chocolate candy melts and whipping cream in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, until the candy melts have softened. Stir until the mixture combines into a pourable ganache. Pour the chocolate ganache over the chocolate-hazelnut mini cake. Add a generous amount of rainbow sprinkles to the top of the mini cake, adding additional Easter décor if desired.</span></span><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zHajpJikPY0/WOwq_NWBsfI/AAAAAAAAWzc/hr0yfF_KW64G4ttynGlo5p2h_co-t41UwCEw/s1600/egg4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="326" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zHajpJikPY0/WOwq_NWBsfI/AAAAAAAAWzc/hr0yfF_KW64G4ttynGlo5p2h_co-t41UwCEw/s640/egg4.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25.6px;"><span style="line-height: 26.6667px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><b><i>Step 4:</i></b> Heat the white candy melts and whipping cream in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, until the candy melts have softened. Stir until the mixture combines into a pourable ganache. Pour the white ganache over the two peanut butter mini cakes. Top each with a peanut butter chocolate egg. Let the cakes cool until the ganache hardens – approximately 1 hour. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25.6px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JT7ImCS5mWU/WOwrClLVLVI/AAAAAAAAWzc/4UAbNvG9mdcNflMl3MCnO96xLrFee_C6ACEw/s1600/egg7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JT7ImCS5mWU/WOwrClLVLVI/AAAAAAAAWzc/4UAbNvG9mdcNflMl3MCnO96xLrFee_C6ACEw/s640/egg7.jpg" width="558" /></span></a></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25.6px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Serve the finished mini cakes on a festive Easter plate. To complete the theme, nestle the plate in a pile of green Easter grass surrounded by miniature chocolate Easter bunnies. It's a perfect centerpiece for your Easter Sunday dinner table! </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25.6px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 25.6px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">These fun little cakes are totally adorable, easy to make, and taste amazing. They slice easily, and the buttercream fillings are smooth and decadent. Little ones especially love to help make and decorate these Easter egg mini cakes...because there's no oven is needed to make them, they're very kid-friendly! </span></div>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-6901673928079481082024-03-07T12:18:00.001-06:002024-03-07T12:18:57.704-06:00Perfect for Lenten Friday: Zesty Tex-Mex Shrimp Cocktail #lentenfridaymeals #gulfshrimp #seafood #spicyfood<p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">Today, I'm sharing a recipe for Zesty Tex-Mex Shrimp Cocktail. It's super simple to whip up a batch of this appetizer or light lunch/dinner in no time. That makes it perfect for serving on Lenten Fridays! Because it's served chilled, all you need is 20 minutes to prep everything...then you can store in the fridge up to 24 hours ahead, until you're ready to serve. If you've never tasted Mexican-style shrimp cocktail (aka coctel del camarones), it's a bit different from the American-style shrimp cocktail you may be used to. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">This Zesty Tex-Mex Shrimp Cocktail is my personal spin on a dish that has a zillion variations. Everyone who tastes this appetizer goes crazy for it!</span></span></p><a name='more'></a><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 13.2px;" /><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Zesty Tex-Mex Shrimp Cocktail</span></i></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Weekend Gourmet Style</i></b></span></span><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 13.2px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1BKd85grsbI/Vbz1P2QLxnI/AAAAAAAATmw/OcJyjy7RGxw/s1600/msc4.jpg" style="color: #888888; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1BKd85grsbI/Vbz1P2QLxnI/AAAAAAAATmw/OcJyjy7RGxw/s640/msc4.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="498" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><u>Ingredients (</u><u>makes 3 cups</u><u>)</u>:</i></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif;"></div><ul style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;"><li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 lb. extra large shrimp (16-20/pound)</span></li><li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 cup prepared pico de gallo from the Produce aisle</span></li><li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 cup ketchup</span></li><li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">2 TBS Worcestershire sauce</span></li><li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 TBS chipotle flavored hot sauce </span></li><li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Juice of half of a large lime (or lemon)</span></li><li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1/3 cup reserved shrimp cooking water</span></li><li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 large Haas avocado, peeled and diced</span></li><li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Salt and pepper to taste</span></li><li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Tortilla chips for serving</span></li></ul><div style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><u>Directions</u>:</i></b></span></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 1:</i> Boil the shrimp in well salted water. Immerse the cooked shrimp in ice water to stop the cooking process. Peel and devein the shrimp, reserving two of the prettiest ones for garnish. Chop the remaining shrimp into bite-sized pieces and add to a large bowl. Add the pico de gallo, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, shrimp cooking water, lime/lemon juice, and hot sauce. </span></div><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 13.2px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WKbqLfBkQiU/Vbz1XVrYuJI/AAAAAAAATnY/wOAZ-lycbiU/s1600/msc1.jpg" style="color: #888888; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="558" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WKbqLfBkQiU/Vbz1XVrYuJI/AAAAAAAATnY/wOAZ-lycbiU/s640/msc1.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="640" /></a></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 2: </i>Stir well to evenly combine all the ingredients. At this point, you can chill the shrimp and veggie mixture in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to serve, add the diced avocado to the and carefully fold into the shrimp mixture. Be gentle so you don't</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> break up the avocado! Add salt and pepper to taste.</span></div><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 13.2px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tGZcR5VSBsc/Vbz1P5h_3VI/AAAAAAAATnA/WdMu-QVTFNY/s1600/msc2.jpg" style="color: #888888; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tGZcR5VSBsc/Vbz1P5h_3VI/AAAAAAAATnA/WdMu-QVTFNY/s640/msc2.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="640" /></a></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 3: </i>Carefully spoon the chilled shrimp cocktail into a large margarita glass. Just before serving, add one the reserved boiled shrimp and a slice of lime/lemon to the rim of the serving glass. Serve with baskets of crispy tortilla chips for dipping. </span></div><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 13.2px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yhLpDr2XGW0/Vbz1RShUmcI/AAAAAAAATnQ/LlSjYxAcqOo/s1600/msc6.jpg" style="color: #888888; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration-line: none;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yhLpDr2XGW0/Vbz1RShUmcI/AAAAAAAATnQ/LlSjYxAcqOo/s640/msc6.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="480" /></a></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">This easy-to-make appetizer is an amazing combination of flavors and textures. The chunks of sweet shrimp are perfectly balanced by the zesty cocktail sauce and creamy avocado. The finely diced pico de gallo adds plenty of texture and spice. Add it all up, and you've got a winner -- perfect for entertaining and taking to seasonal potlucks. We've been known to make a meal out of this dish...so that's always an option too!</span></div>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-42442336262919798012024-02-26T11:45:00.001-06:002024-02-26T11:45:09.163-06:00Perfect for Lenten Friday Dinner: Smoky Grilled Lemon-Basil Salmon #lentenfridaymeals #grilledseafood #salmon #omega3 <p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ll7RQa3Y6R8/XymqHqV3NKI/AAAAAAAAcRA/vWxThWza-Cc2JYZIeVzbGS_aHWxjnPdPQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/bm4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1599" data-original-width="1600" height="638" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ll7RQa3Y6R8/XymqHqV3NKI/AAAAAAAAcRA/vWxThWza-Cc2JYZIeVzbGS_aHWxjnPdPQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/bm4.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">During the Lenten season, I'm always looking for healthy and delicious ideas for our Friday seafood dinner. </span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">If you love sa</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">lmon, you'll go crazy for the Smoky Grilled Lemon-Basil Salmon I'm sharing today! It features bright lemon and garden-fresh basil in both the simple marinade and the flavor-packed spice rub. The end result is fish that's bursting with flavor...and a healthy dose of Omega-3 fatty acids.</span></p><a name='more'></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Smoky Grilled Lemon-Basil Salmon</i></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>a Weekend Gourmet Original</i></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BKSb7W_KZf8/Xym0xWOF18I/AAAAAAAAcRg/pha4-Wd8VigzUoPHwLxEfPjZg9sVoma4ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/bm5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1139" data-original-width="1600" height="454" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BKSb7W_KZf8/Xym0xWOF18I/AAAAAAAAcRg/pha4-Wd8VigzUoPHwLxEfPjZg9sVoma4ACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/bm5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><u>Ingredients (makes three servings)</u>:</i></b></span><br /><div><ul><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Three 4-ounce fillets wild-caught Atlantic salmon (skin on)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rice or riced cauliflower for plating the finished salmon</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Garnish: Thinly sliced lemon and whole basil leaves</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i><u>For the marinade</u>:</i></span></div><div><ul><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1/2 cup pineapple juice</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 TBS soy sauce</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 TBS olive oil</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 TBS honey</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 TBS fresh lemon juice</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp. lemon zest</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">5 basil leaves, chopped</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">2 TBS finely chopped shallot</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i><u>For the compound butter</u>:</i></span></div><div><ul><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 TBS salted butter, softened to room temperature</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp. lemon zest</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">3 basil leaves, chopped</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp. garlic powder</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i><u>For the spice rub</u>:</i></span></div><div><ul><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp. Himalayan pink salt</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp. onion powder</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp. garlic powder</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp. dried parsley </span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1/2 tsp. smoked paprika</span></li></ul></div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><u>Directions</u>:</i></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 1: </i>Add the pineapple juice, soy sauce, olive oil, honey, lemon juice and zest, basil, and shallot to an 8x8 dish. Whisk well to combine, then add the salmon pieces, skin side down. Marinate salmon in the fridge for one hour, flipping the pieces over after 30 minutes to ensure the marinade is infused into the entire fillet.</span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RrxiIzxNUm0/XynxkZ2kz0I/AAAAAAAAcSc/VJtPba6CPeM9vbCNNx_euk_UMF1NncfkwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/bm10.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RrxiIzxNUm0/XynxkZ2kz0I/AAAAAAAAcSc/VJtPba6CPeM9vbCNNx_euk_UMF1NncfkwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/bm10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Step 2: </b><span>H</span>eat your grill. While the grill heats and the salmon marinates, assemble the other recipe components. For the compound butter: add the softened butter, lemon zest, basil, and garlic powder to a small bowl. Stir until all ingredients are completely combined. </span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kd5Mf779qwM/Xym6P-AiIQI/AAAAAAAAcRw/MSK6XJfLdZ4jUgJPxAz5d-li1hOBwEbugCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/bm2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1585" data-original-width="1600" height="632" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kd5Mf779qwM/Xym6P-AiIQI/AAAAAAAAcRw/MSK6XJfLdZ4jUgJPxAz5d-li1hOBwEbugCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/bm2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Step 3: </b><span>For the spice rub: a</span>dd the salt and pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, parsley, and paprika to a small bowl. Stir to completely combine the spices.</span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-futMTQCbxXc/Xym6U8n45OI/AAAAAAAAcR0/FhB1izjN1FQDIw5yDksZaf5dzQSljRKDwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/bm6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1593" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-futMTQCbxXc/Xym6U8n45OI/AAAAAAAAcR0/FhB1izjN1FQDIw5yDksZaf5dzQSljRKDwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/bm6.jpg" width="636" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Step 4: </b>Spray a piece of aluminum foil with non-stick spray; arrange the salmon pieces on top, skin side down. Brush a third of the softened compound butter onto each of the fillets. Then sprinkle a third of the spice rub on top of each buttered fillet. Add the foil with the prepped salmon to the grill. Cover and cook for approximately 10 minutes.</span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TNjqI5WJ7jc/Xym6ar-lvBI/AAAAAAAAcR4/fppvKJfNqUsZVnncIZLclxKo1pwlMSCBwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/bm11.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TNjqI5WJ7jc/Xym6ar-lvBI/AAAAAAAAcR4/fppvKJfNqUsZVnncIZLclxKo1pwlMSCBwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/bm11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-elG9yCFAbnY/Xym750UN7WI/AAAAAAAAcSU/JNpcu8hJ0Q80SV0VppHVgxAic1lSN6mTACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/bm12.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="379" data-original-width="999" height="242" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-elG9yCFAbnY/Xym750UN7WI/AAAAAAAAcSU/JNpcu8hJ0Q80SV0VppHVgxAic1lSN6mTACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/bm12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Step 5: </b>To serve, spoon your favorite rice or lower-carb cauliflower rice -- onto a serving platter. Arrange the cooked salmon on top of the rice. Just before serving, garnish each piece of salmon with a thin slice of lemon and a whole basil leaf. Serve immediately.</span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gebbp9bUVWM/Xym6hAJK4mI/AAAAAAAAcSA/tx9Mgw37IEQ6azEn4CbfEvRF2-FPGRw_ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/bm1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1169" data-original-width="1600" height="466" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gebbp9bUVWM/Xym6hAJK4mI/AAAAAAAAcSA/tx9Mgw37IEQ6azEn4CbfEvRF2-FPGRw_ACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/bm1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-78VVIlce2-A/Xym6luVjxGI/AAAAAAAAcSE/iPK0rwOg65sIkofbdDwWWD5xSJMFZe8LgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/bm3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-78VVIlce2-A/Xym6luVjxGI/AAAAAAAAcSE/iPK0rwOg65sIkofbdDwWWD5xSJMFZe8LgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/bm3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia, times new roman, serif; font-size: large;">Wowza is this salmon delicious! The bright lemon and basil work great with the richness of the salmon, and the smoky grill flavor compliments the entire dish. To save time, the spice blend and compound butter can be made up to a day ahead and stored until you're ready to cook the salmon. If you're not a fish fan, the versatile compound butter and spice rub are also delicious on grilled or pan-seared jumbo shrimp!</span><br /><br />The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-39969805201868004522024-02-03T13:11:00.002-06:002024-02-03T13:11:52.515-06:00Super Bowl Game Day Apps...Featuring Roasted Tomatillo Salsa #gamedayfood #superbowlfood #homemadesalsa #chipsandsalsa<p><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM-5BXFWLVruHBUUUquofM0qNVCEP2aXd3pgJvMOHSijXI0KT7aE_x90gYxGNxCHMDlPR7tTnJefo3eI0dO6YmpaiCOK1bCEkkGIQKqLMIP1WLbyH9DxaCPuB6KFD4aeSa3ryzjUGOL1HiZu1T_Px9V_uH0pNXmLWCL9WB2OixgmbRcxvGWCmHK1Aumg/s3057/cc4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span><img border="0" data-original-height="2879" data-original-width="3057" height="602" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM-5BXFWLVruHBUUUquofM0qNVCEP2aXd3pgJvMOHSijXI0KT7aE_x90gYxGNxCHMDlPR7tTnJefo3eI0dO6YmpaiCOK1bCEkkGIQKqLMIP1WLbyH9DxaCPuB6KFD4aeSa3ryzjUGOL1HiZu1T_Px9V_uH0pNXmLWCL9WB2OixgmbRcxvGWCmHK1Aumg/w640-h602/cc4.jpg" width="640" /></span></a><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Super Bowl is coming up in a couple of weeks...and that means I'm serving up some yummy game day snacks! I always serve chips and salsa...salty, crunchy, and spicy in one delicious bite. However, I rarely make salsa from scratch for some reason. Luckily, the Roasted Tomatillo Salsa recipe I'm sharing today is </span><span style="font-family: georgia;">incredibly easy to make at home. </span><span style="font-family: georgia;">It features tangy tomatillos and is ready to serve in minutes. If you're like me and don't typically make your own salsa? I promise this one is super easy to make...and economical too. I paid about $3 for the four simple ingredients needed to make this spicy-tangy green salsa! Best of all? It can be made a couple of days ahead of the big game and stored in an airtight container in the fridge until you're ready to serve.</span></span></p><div><div><p></p></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"></span><span><b><i><span><a name='more'></a></span></i></b></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Roasted Tomatillo Salsa</span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>from</b> <b><i>Colu Cooks: Easy Fancy Food</i></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaPqLwKuVy0_LG5JNeIdkuPGGYE4IaWAWknuzlRBGfo2Y-0ZxT6XqMugyV_XEpNP7CTecoBae-FmKaRhr9r5Mt14RIysXCpiDxGVVz5iIwoTF_MaPNMlgQkRy3rJ8n2L5KCLjKM9pO3jPr5SvD-ay7JJBzp6kAXnoUmWM2bA30dAWRpl7EVgBAqhDju3yb/s2473/salsa1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2350" data-original-width="2473" height="608" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaPqLwKuVy0_LG5JNeIdkuPGGYE4IaWAWknuzlRBGfo2Y-0ZxT6XqMugyV_XEpNP7CTecoBae-FmKaRhr9r5Mt14RIysXCpiDxGVVz5iIwoTF_MaPNMlgQkRy3rJ8n2L5KCLjKM9pO3jPr5SvD-ay7JJBzp6kAXnoUmWM2bA30dAWRpl7EVgBAqhDju3yb/w640-h608/salsa1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Ingredients (makes 2 cups salsa)</u>:</span></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ul><li><span style="font-size: large;">1 1/2 pounds fresh tomatillos, husks removed, rinsed to remove stickiness -- cut in half if large</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">2 small jalapeno peppers, cut lengthwise with the seeds and stems removed</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">1 small white or yellow onion, halved</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">1/2 cup loosely packed fresh cilantro (leaves and stems)</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">Kosher salt</span></li></ul></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Directions</u>:</span></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 1: </i>Place oven rack 1 to 2 inches below the heat source and set the oven to Broil. On a large sheet pan, spread out the tomatillos, jalapenos, and onion -- cut side down -- in a single layer. Broil, turning vegetables once or twice, until the tomatillos begin to release their liquid and everything becomes slightly charred. This will take 5 to 7 minutes. Allow cooked veggies to cool slightly.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvoTELDFG6WYw_gcEDkXSFVASyU3Qu6AREX_TDRx0QPgCV8QoZEIolbkQnIQfEOcMwj7Nnza1AeeqG4-TKKgyltE3Wqmy0PLY_iqC1SizItCc6YPofxhwyUIKZK5xD-GCTP3Y92QFmtVCAIwgQ0cHcD6qb9viRLd6pPB9vFP2rZlKbUffHrnFZC3lOeQ/s1800/cc3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvoTELDFG6WYw_gcEDkXSFVASyU3Qu6AREX_TDRx0QPgCV8QoZEIolbkQnIQfEOcMwj7Nnza1AeeqG4-TKKgyltE3Wqmy0PLY_iqC1SizItCc6YPofxhwyUIKZK5xD-GCTP3Y92QFmtVCAIwgQ0cHcD6qb9viRLd6pPB9vFP2rZlKbUffHrnFZC3lOeQ/w640-h640/cc3.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 2: </i>Transfer the cooked, cooled mixture -- along with any liquid that's been released -- to a food processor or blender. Add cilantro and a good pinch of salt. Pulse until the salsa is smooth.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggO3Dj4ryFdWNgRV8MK-MveI6iidDfeJuDDahN5dAZQzr2IP8ln5mBTmB8tNTXSCIdQSg1HtL49gikMWbCHB-EFrj8z16Re_o4lrtJ_6wR5T-PMfd0JV2pVWKFrpMnGttZr66lt2LaFS78Irsq_Api4QBXIBHjHXFBmnDYhc52ATOtDHa9Yqusxt5WGg/s1800/cc2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggO3Dj4ryFdWNgRV8MK-MveI6iidDfeJuDDahN5dAZQzr2IP8ln5mBTmB8tNTXSCIdQSg1HtL49gikMWbCHB-EFrj8z16Re_o4lrtJ_6wR5T-PMfd0JV2pVWKFrpMnGttZr66lt2LaFS78Irsq_Api4QBXIBHjHXFBmnDYhc52ATOtDHa9Yqusxt5WGg/w640-h640/cc2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 3: </i>Transfer the salsa to a serving bowl, then taste and add salt to taste. Serve this salsa with warm tortilla chips for a fun party appetizer.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC4tWyp_rbzWiP-4ejyoQ-wvUASMu1wSm8fCv1h52sR9962XYDloHIEWAd7gbvV6N7VI9DNQKc2RK2arA8w3qZXaivC9ibHZSyJ3lcLbWq1_w5KO6p9CBfKB9kWYmoi_6BKDQ9xRceFXsEHCKXpKN4AnVugCiynUYR0YQ34iakvLdw7PbxnQ5A3VW-hg/s3314/cc5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2750" data-original-width="3314" height="532" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC4tWyp_rbzWiP-4ejyoQ-wvUASMu1wSm8fCv1h52sR9962XYDloHIEWAd7gbvV6N7VI9DNQKc2RK2arA8w3qZXaivC9ibHZSyJ3lcLbWq1_w5KO6p9CBfKB9kWYmoi_6BKDQ9xRceFXsEHCKXpKN4AnVugCiynUYR0YQ34iakvLdw7PbxnQ5A3VW-hg/w640-h532/cc5.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">This fresh salsa is so much better than any jarred salsa I've tasted! All you need is a some simple fresh produce...and about 30 minutes...to whip up a batch of this spicy-tangy green salsa. Because tomatillos are naturally tart, you won't need to add lime juice. This versatile salsa is also amazing spooned over grilled chicken or fish, stirred into rice/cauliflower rice, and more. Do yourself a favor and make add this simple salsa to your Super Bowl menu!</span></div></div></span></div></div>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-69428499879600204692023-12-29T12:32:00.001-06:002023-12-29T12:32:26.350-06:00Easy Elegance for New Year's Eve...Featuring Lobster Salad in Puff Pastry Cups #newyearsevefood #puffpastry #easyappetizers #seafood #holidayfood<p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--5eR6Qr2RXs/VnYMPNyZdMI/AAAAAAAAUwM/IFwBlR-Icj0/s1600/lob2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="482" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--5eR6Qr2RXs/VnYMPNyZdMI/AAAAAAAAUwM/IFwBlR-Icj0/s640/lob2.jpg" width="640" /></a></p><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 26px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4SYwD3tIUKbg8ch3-mPwKIqyKiPDJjvwdU6nAgzjz2pRr1S_EQAbO-ZBj8jXfSJFRPt_WFzvCCj0PBLdM11AdZB6qS4ixj0gyJNbEEoERLhNxMqqOT-CPjfMvL6AF7uM8lc8yTISlbQARE23w_lnWKnk2PFVSkmX0t5YrJqTpkJtqx2U9qszbpgtfAwZq/s487/newyear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="487" data-original-width="474" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4SYwD3tIUKbg8ch3-mPwKIqyKiPDJjvwdU6nAgzjz2pRr1S_EQAbO-ZBj8jXfSJFRPt_WFzvCCj0PBLdM11AdZB6qS4ixj0gyJNbEEoERLhNxMqqOT-CPjfMvL6AF7uM8lc8yTISlbQARE23w_lnWKnk2PFVSkmX0t5YrJqTpkJtqx2U9qszbpgtfAwZq/w194-h200/newyear.jpg" width="194" /></a></div>The 2023 holiday season is quickly coming to an end. If you're planning a low-key celebration at home this weekend to ring in 2024, I've got a perfect appetizer recipe for you. </span><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 26px;">My Lobster Salad Puff Pastry Bites are the epitome of easy elegance! B</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 26px;">ite-sized frozen puff pastry cups are filled with a creamy, flavorful lobster salad. The ingredients are minimal, so the sweet chunks of lobster truly take center stage. Best of all? Your guests will never know you whipped them up in no time! Last year, I made the lobster salad a day ahead, then stored in the fridge. I also baked the puff pastry cups early in the day on New Year's Eve. I simply assembled the bites just before serving. Talk about stress-free entertaining!</span></span></span><br /><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 26px;"></span></span></span><br /><a name='more'></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><i><i><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Lobster Salad in Puff Pastry Cups</span></b></i></i></span></span><br /><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><i><i><b><span style="font-size: large;">a Weekend Gourmet Original</span></b></i></i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e-SUzJBHKlA/VnYMLn-uDAI/AAAAAAAAUv8/Fp_q_fVXNhE/s1600/lob3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="484" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e-SUzJBHKlA/VnYMLn-uDAI/AAAAAAAAUv8/Fp_q_fVXNhE/s640/lob3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 26px;"><i><b><u>Ingredients (makes 2 dozen cups)</u>:</b></i></span></span></span></div><ul><li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">1 package (24) frozen puff pastry cups</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">1/2 cup good-quality mayonnaise -- I use Duke's</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">1 TBS balsamic vinegar </span></span></li><li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">1 TBS grainy mustard</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">1 tsp Old Bay seasoning</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">Sea salt to taste</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">1 garlic clove, finely minced</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">1 TBS chopped parsley</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">1 lb. lobster tail meat, chopped (approximately 1 cup) </span></span></li><li><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">For garnish: sea salt flakes and additional Old Bay seasoning</span></span></li></ul><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 26px;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 1: </i><span>M</span>ake the lobster salad up to a day ahead and store in refrigerator. Add mayonnaise, balsamic, Old Bay, sea salt, garlic, and parsley to a mixing bowl. Whisk until completely combined into a dressing. Add the chopped lobster, and toss with the dressing. Refrigerate until ready to spoon into the puff pastry cups.</span></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gcGWYn0Yses/VnYMO3bDCZI/AAAAAAAAUwQ/YBWjS8nnfvA/s1600/lob4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="324" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gcGWYn0Yses/VnYMO3bDCZI/AAAAAAAAUwQ/YBWjS8nnfvA/s640/lob4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 26px;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 2: </i>Heat oven to 400℉. Place the frozen puff pastry bites on a non-stick rimmed baking sheet. Bake until puffed and golden -- about 20 minutes. Use a wooden dowel to push the center pieces of each cup down, forming into a cup. Let the puff pastry cups cool at least 30 minutes before filling.</span></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="322" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yepm8cuGYSE/VnYMPmzWsdI/AAAAAAAAUwc/i0CeyS8Fyzk/s640/lob5.jpg" width="640" /></div></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 26px;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 3: </i>When the puff pastry cups are cool, use a small spoon to fill with some of the lobster salad, mounding it slightly on top. Sprinkle each puff with a bit more Old Bay seasoning and a flake or two of sea salt on top. Place the finished bites on a festive holiday platter and serve.</span></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-02fTRxgkTr4/VnYMMYkgi9I/AAAAAAAAUwE/cilb09pzjGU/s1600/lob1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="514" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-02fTRxgkTr4/VnYMMYkgi9I/AAAAAAAAUwE/cilb09pzjGU/s640/lob1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">Wowza -- these appetizer bites are fabulous! The flaky puff pastry holds a perfect amount of creamy lobster salad. The dressing is a little spicy and a little tangy -- but the sweet lobster chunks are definitely the star of the show. Lobster not in your late December budget? No problem! Simply use 1 lb. boiled, chopped shrimp instead! </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 26px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, times new roman, serif; font-size: large;">To create a full no-stress New Year's Eve menu, consider the adding the following items: your favorite bakery cookies, store-bought chocolate truffles, boiled shrimp with cocktail sauce, salsa and/or guacamole with tortilla chips, and...of course...a champagne toast! Here's to a great 2024 ahead!!</span></div>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-53556154959925082172023-12-21T11:56:00.001-06:002023-12-21T11:56:43.669-06:00Healthy Holiday Sipping: Zero Sugar Peppermint Mocha Steamer...Featuring Peet's Coffee and Jordan's Skinny Syrups #zerosugarcoffee #athomebarista #lowcarbcoffee #skinnypeppermintmocha<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWxFSHKn8H8NGEBM_toU2BM8JfBZMsYiTs9PlnTSar2DoSSdB8z8LMaLaeo7vEk_8qR7aZy9xle13D7qm7fw-qJ7lYkuGQkBbbTuYfvu43G0s0AH6xTK_kk4sqCTVVJREmGwjaZ8BeeUV9YLCYO2htIBF4ZdtSi5hWyd3hVWYmysYbZ4sB_nXj6H1uLjSP/s1799/pepmo.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1799" data-original-width="1439" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWxFSHKn8H8NGEBM_toU2BM8JfBZMsYiTs9PlnTSar2DoSSdB8z8LMaLaeo7vEk_8qR7aZy9xle13D7qm7fw-qJ7lYkuGQkBbbTuYfvu43G0s0AH6xTK_kk4sqCTVVJREmGwjaZ8BeeUV9YLCYO2htIBF4ZdtSi5hWyd3hVWYmysYbZ4sB_nXj6H1uLjSP/w512-h640/pepmo.jpg" width="512" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">For many of us, the holiday season isn't complete without sipping on warm beverages that feature festive flavors like peppermint! Unfortunately, most of the drinks from my favorite coffee shop have way too much sugar and carbs to fit into my current healthy eating...err sipping...plan. To enjoy the flavors of the season in a healthier way, I typically make my own coffee creations at home!</span><p></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">One of my favorites</span><span style="font-family: georgia;"> this holiday is my Zero Sugar Peppermint Mocha Steamer, so I'm sharing the recipe with y'all above. This warm mocha packs a perfect peppermint punch -- without being overwhelming -- thanks to using a </span><a href="https://www.peets.com/products/peppermint-mocha-k-cup-pods" style="font-family: georgia;" target="_blank">Peet's Coffee Peppermint Mocha K-Cup®Pod</a><span style="font-family: georgia;"> and</span><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span><a href="https://www.skinnymixes.com/products/sugar-free-peppermint-bark-syrup" style="font-family: georgia;" target="_blank">Jordan's Sugar Free Peppermint Bark Skinny Syrup</a><span style="font-family: georgia;">. The end result reminds me of liquid chocolate peppermint bark. </span></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP0kzZwA41UGYab3M271sxN0-uHwpqrzcZeHbUVv8NdH-8L8ttmjozIl2BjzthhLqE_rVDzXZmrort8ENCpGzOl3EgUEXHMainS8enKU21G6U8Y5aGGsQ0LhA5PsQphmA0drOCw0VS-SCSnR6ZO1_whzO5qSb49RhsHpqewlEWreYgORz1WuWzto8ZihZF/s1800/pepmo3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1285" data-original-width="1800" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP0kzZwA41UGYab3M271sxN0-uHwpqrzcZeHbUVv8NdH-8L8ttmjozIl2BjzthhLqE_rVDzXZmrort8ENCpGzOl3EgUEXHMainS8enKU21G6U8Y5aGGsQ0LhA5PsQphmA0drOCw0VS-SCSnR6ZO1_whzO5qSb49RhsHpqewlEWreYgORz1WuWzto8ZihZF/w400-h285/pepmo3.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">By keeping an assortment of flavored K-Cups® and a wide variety of sugar-free flavoring syrups on hand, I'</span><span style="font-family: georgia;">ve created 100+ sugar-free/low-carb coffee beverages...hot, iced, and frozen blended! <a href="https://www.peets.com/" target="_blank">Peet's Coffee</a> is a brand I often use when creating these lightened-up coffee drinks. Their flavored blends like Hazelnut Mocha and Caramel Brȗlée don't</span><span style="font-family: georgia;"> overwhelm the flavor of the coffee beans, and they always brew up smooth. I also have a collection of </span><a href="https://www.skinnymixes.com/" style="font-family: georgia;" target="_blank">Jordan's Skinny Syrups</a><span style="font-family: georgia;"> on hand for adding sugar-free flavor...and sweetness...to my coffee creations. My favorite flavors include their White Chocolate Mocha, Cinnamon Dolce, and seasonal White Chocolate Peppermint.</span></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHUmORdwcrrOwNAWkD17hyphenhyphenqOajeF5uRPa-XKTDIFc5Ggs7mnmcijYkPhyphenhyphen3L78YuvzQK3FKVpJm5mfF3CqGY6AylNIH5EDMHSJsPtLBLgsah9hhmse02te1z-wicOPn_7xeLkqs-vtQsgkunjKRCM_Kah42SiDBTM84uDWFCPcL2gElHXn7WMBLoB8sSYGw/s1799/hol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1799" data-original-width="1439" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHUmORdwcrrOwNAWkD17hyphenhyphenqOajeF5uRPa-XKTDIFc5Ggs7mnmcijYkPhyphenhyphen3L78YuvzQK3FKVpJm5mfF3CqGY6AylNIH5EDMHSJsPtLBLgsah9hhmse02te1z-wicOPn_7xeLkqs-vtQsgkunjKRCM_Kah42SiDBTM84uDWFCPcL2gElHXn7WMBLoB8sSYGw/w512-h640/hol.jpg" width="512" /></span></a></div></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Happy Holidays...from my house to yours! I'll be back next week to share a fun Italian Charcuterie Board that's perfect for at-home New Year's Eve celebrations. In the meantime, I hope you give my Zero Sugar Peppermint Mocha Steamer a try over the holiday weekend. It tastes just as decadent as the coffee shop version...but it's definitely easier on your waistline!</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b><i>Disclosure: Peet's Coffee and Jordan's Skinny Syrups sent me sample products to facilitate recipe development for this post. As always, all opinions are solely my own.</i></b></span></div>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-35767841754198882172023-12-15T12:16:00.002-06:002023-12-15T12:16:42.911-06:00A Festive Holiday Mocktail...Featuring First Watch's Citrus Hibiscus Punch #firstwatchrestaurant #holidaymocktail #citrus #hibiscus #holidaycheers<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt3TojPFOYP9_sXndxlLA4G9b6o1EJwxPsUam6stEVSgbbgppNhirNCIQnVGB1zRp5Xa5MYe2QyznAQcnfJPDls6yh8b1UTVIPBuOyPJEbQtr8zqILZv0q6bjg8XELC9CjAk6WRjJCEUeiy-hqCTtBBPsf2ClQUroQuouw91iCH5Lzq7pAw38gTtKsi2h2/s1799/punch.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1799" data-original-width="1439" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt3TojPFOYP9_sXndxlLA4G9b6o1EJwxPsUam6stEVSgbbgppNhirNCIQnVGB1zRp5Xa5MYe2QyznAQcnfJPDls6yh8b1UTVIPBuOyPJEbQtr8zqILZv0q6bjg8XELC9CjAk6WRjJCEUeiy-hqCTtBBPsf2ClQUroQuouw91iCH5Lzq7pAw38gTtKsi2h2/w512-h640/punch.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">The holiday season is heading into the home stretch, which means the next two weeks will be Celebration Central! If you're looking for a festive alcohol-free mocktail to serve, I've got a <i>perfect </i>drink courtesy of my friends at <a href="https://www.firstwatch.com/" target="_blank">First Watch</a> restaurant. They're serving a fruit-forward Citrus Hibiscus Punch on their <a href="https://www.firstwatch.com/menu/" target="_blank">Season's Eatings</a> menu. It's flavored with a cinnamon-infused Hibiscus tea, cranberry, orange, pineapple, lemon, and ginger...and it's garnished with a cinnamon sugar rim. First Watch was kind enough to provide the recipe for this sweetly tart punch with me to share here! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: x-large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: x-large;"><b><i>First Watch Citrus Hibiscus Punch</i></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><b><i>Makes 4 Servings</i></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCNwmrUcPMFxkyw-eO0CZdKHCeHs1BvmLBvDlwahoWDMdBLbdadVdUI9sXKDie-fj87odwLLqCLDTMDpsOXzZha4I34EKfQ3njVue67cuMxNKbjmcYczwa39UChuQPmUSM_lOo_VAqIHgvDc4XIK-GmdqsVDRoyeKDX9EemhkShTOdcEdmzge2lEXozc-2/s1373/punch1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1373" data-original-width="757" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCNwmrUcPMFxkyw-eO0CZdKHCeHs1BvmLBvDlwahoWDMdBLbdadVdUI9sXKDie-fj87odwLLqCLDTMDpsOXzZha4I34EKfQ3njVue67cuMxNKbjmcYczwa39UChuQPmUSM_lOo_VAqIHgvDc4XIK-GmdqsVDRoyeKDX9EemhkShTOdcEdmzge2lEXozc-2/w352-h640/punch1.jpg" width="352" /></a></div></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><b><u><i>Ingredients</i></u><i>:</i></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">1 3/4 cup Cold-Brewed Cinnamon Hibiscus Tea</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">3/4 cup Simple Syrup</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">1 cup Cranberry Juice</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">1 cup Orange Juice</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">1/2 cup Pineapple Juice</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">1/4 cup Lemon Juice</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">2 TBS ginger juice</span></li></ul></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i>For the cold-brewed Cinnamon Hibiscus Tea -- makes 2 quarts:</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">2 quarts Cold Filtered Water</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">2 Cinnamon Sticks</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">1 cup Dried Hibiscus Flowers</span></li></ul></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><b><i><u>Directions</u>:</i></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 1: </i><span>Brew</span> the tea <i>the day before</i> you plan to mix and serve the punch. Add all tea ingredients to a large pitcher, and mix with a large spoon. Cover pitcher and place in the fridge overnight...or up to 24 hours. Strain the finished tea into a container to remove the flowers and cinnamon sticks. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i>NOTE: after making the punch, the remaining tea will last in the fridge for up to week if tightly sealed.</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 2: </i>Add the chilled tea, simple syrup, and juices to a large pitcher. Mix with a large spoon to completely incorporate the ingredients. Serve punch over ice with garnish of choice. First Watch serves this punch in a glass rimmed with cinnamon sugar, with a slice of orange for a garnish.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0Q_2Ur_H9pk8sZmcIQORHjKG3iIcofnOTUppXk-kYngrdPLQoqM008GgoZRtdMjTZ1pDfb21wNdIs94SmOSLh9WWXg0ZtPvsvykjb_O6DybDsEoRa9NuahMuxW4d75DIvRC7wACaxjnzNnR_2PR0pnBWgR8thHKNSM6TfDnGtqeIST49lckAKajAoVx_/s1170/punch2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1116" data-original-width="1170" height="610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0Q_2Ur_H9pk8sZmcIQORHjKG3iIcofnOTUppXk-kYngrdPLQoqM008GgoZRtdMjTZ1pDfb21wNdIs94SmOSLh9WWXg0ZtPvsvykjb_O6DybDsEoRa9NuahMuxW4d75DIvRC7wACaxjnzNnR_2PR0pnBWgR8thHKNSM6TfDnGtqeIST49lckAKajAoVx_/w640-h610/punch2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">This versatile punch is a delicious holiday mocktail as is. But? First Watch Chef Shane Shaibly says individual servings can also be mixed with a shot of vodka or rum to transform it into a festive seasonal cocktail. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">In addition to their Citrus Hibiscus Punch, First Watch's Season's Eatings breakfast/brunch menu features Sunny Seoul Hash, a Steak and Bacon Breakfast Burrito, a Cinnamon Chip Pancake Breakfast, Gingerbread Spice Donut bites, and sweet-savory Million Dollar Bacon. These seasonal </span><span style="font-family: georgia;">menu items are available at a <a href="https://www.firstwatch.com/locations/" target="_blank">First Watch location near you</a> through January 7th. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><p></p>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-54788005126568799362023-12-06T13:47:00.001-06:002023-12-08T12:03:49.664-06:002023 Holiday Gift Guide for Food Lovers, Part 2 #holidaygiftguide2023 #giftsforfoodies #kitchenandfoodgifts #holidaygifts<p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtwQx6atz6G8HD18jJTGWLLNEP9a7fH5M8_EaZQ0KVTU1oYh3_Hb7mRKQktZ6ONh0P9dCj2flQJSWBtbwUhCZPvbGwZs_cWbdzFXg0llhng9xreXusecf9v6DUxqRSgvW4Ai7RZ9HQa2xw6tekec-KPagl4kqAI7wTPGgd_JSMN8LGRO-1n_Xbm4hC5KSL/s225/gift.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="224" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtwQx6atz6G8HD18jJTGWLLNEP9a7fH5M8_EaZQ0KVTU1oYh3_Hb7mRKQktZ6ONh0P9dCj2flQJSWBtbwUhCZPvbGwZs_cWbdzFXg0llhng9xreXusecf9v6DUxqRSgvW4Ai7RZ9HQa2xw6tekec-KPagl4kqAI7wTPGgd_JSMN8LGRO-1n_Xbm4hC5KSL/w199-h200/gift.jpg" width="199" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">It's time for Part 2 of my 2023 Holiday Gift Guide for Food Lovers. This installment includes a pair of gift suggestions for the entertainers and party hosts on your gift list...as well as a fantastic family-friendly gift idea. This year, I'm also including a bonus holiday thank-you gift suggestion that's perfect for teachers, mail carriers...and other people who help make your life easier throughout the year. It's also a great stocking stuffer. Let's get started!</span><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.delallo.com/italian-entertaining-gift-collection-1/" target="_blank">(1) For the Gourmet Entertainer: DeLallo Italian Entertaining Gift Collection</a>. </i>If your holiday shopping list includes people who are known for being excellent party hosts/entertainers, DeLallo's Italian Entertaining Gift Collection ($123.95) is </span><span style="font-family: georgia;">an ideal gift to give them! </span></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX5DFXzQoHBXJ1Wj-AKePzqtIKjZjTu7Ljc7QgKNk1IIJP-FU8A4d5yrtc7ExSjSTNNDqzX-jPWH6ZP2D5LmcCEcsBWCcdy_Uyb-f4Tboff1eIT2F0bH6xc2_8bDrYxBrvpiAAbtJBUY7zod7E4E8c7lUoZ-g8VSMTgWVrhjhCshAUpuyoTKv_6PM58yn3/s500/del2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX5DFXzQoHBXJ1Wj-AKePzqtIKjZjTu7Ljc7QgKNk1IIJP-FU8A4d5yrtc7ExSjSTNNDqzX-jPWH6ZP2D5LmcCEcsBWCcdy_Uyb-f4Tboff1eIT2F0bH6xc2_8bDrYxBrvpiAAbtJBUY7zod7E4E8c7lUoZ-g8VSMTgWVrhjhCshAUpuyoTKv_6PM58yn3/w640-h640/del2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">This comprehensive gourmet Italian gift box includes:</span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">DeLallo Extra Virgin Olive Oil</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">DeLallo Sesame Breadsticks</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Italian Pitted Olive Medley</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">DeLallo Roasted Red Pepper Strips</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">DeLallo Imported Italian Tomato Bruschetta</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">DeLallo Fig Spread</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Sweet Casalingo Dry Cured Sausage</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">DeLallo Mini Genoa Salami</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">DeLallo Imported Italian Granino Cheese Wedge</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Merlot VellaVitano Wedge</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">This deluxe gourmet gift set can be used to assemble an Italian charcuterie board for at-home celebrations ranging from New Year's Eve...Super Bowl Sunday...a romantic date night...or even a Girls Night In!</span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCfBMhFGZtJE6FfMALHqjaWYqQG2FauT6hKi51toFVDlZdF5A0RpS1hF3h2iAFYW3IDnXdTC3pOLbEHA5ajxVkKPBt6x8dJmrqOH5DhmhjH2MCSl3DHzIDfoyB5zoBa7v_0-AsilvW6-tU6zuSX1-RaMJPg-9_m9kO8bFlMTNgLi6xINhfq-aeUskI_Wyy/s500/del1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCfBMhFGZtJE6FfMALHqjaWYqQG2FauT6hKi51toFVDlZdF5A0RpS1hF3h2iAFYW3IDnXdTC3pOLbEHA5ajxVkKPBt6x8dJmrqOH5DhmhjH2MCSl3DHzIDfoyB5zoBa7v_0-AsilvW6-tU6zuSX1-RaMJPg-9_m9kO8bFlMTNgLi6xINhfq-aeUskI_Wyy/w426-h640/del1.jpg" width="426" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">A charcuterie board curated from this gift set offers savory and sweet flavors...as well as multiple textures. It can also be augmented with nuts, dried/fresh fruit, warm bread, or a few cruditè to accommodate larger get-togethers. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span>DeLallo has been producing and distributing quality Italian foods for more than seven decades. I'm always impressed with the quality of their products!</span><span> Their</span><span> gift sets are carefully arranged inside a blue logo box...and can easily be shipped across the U.S. For local gifting, simply ship the present to yourself. Add a festive bow and gift tag...and it's ready to gift! </span><span>Be sure to check out DeLallo's entire line of </span><a href="https://www.delallo.com/c/italian-gift-baskets" target="_blank">Italian gift sets</a><span>. There's literally something for all tastes...and a wide range of budgets. </span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://lynnliana.com/collections/all" target="_blank">(2) For the Stylish Party Host: Lynn & Liana Designs Cheese Boards and Accent Trays.</a> </i>If your holiday shopping list includes someone who's both stylish and likes to assemble beautiful food displays...Lynn & Liana's stunning serving pieces will knock their socks off! They</span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-variant-numeric: normal;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal;"><span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"> offer custom</span></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-weight: 700;"><span style="font-variant-numeric: normal;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal;"><span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-variant-numeric: normal;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal;"><span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">boards and platters that also serve as art. Every piece comes in nine color options...and no two boards are exactly alike. That's because <span class="il">Lynn</span> & <span class="il">Liana</span> uses</span></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-weight: 700;"><span style="font-variant-numeric: normal;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal;"><span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-variant-numeric: normal;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal;"><span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">eco-friendly resin and a production process that creates gorgeous designs unique to each item.</span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-variant-numeric: normal;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal;"><span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4FzvcdRazWBqepHcgQ0Aw7xIoOAThyaiZwJ9B8ghQQAKeDmI4x3L5y4nHiqfqlG3DinVGUJgh0Io0VrTIsV-Kv9hd5GJd5RP_f7W4A5aFh45dTGVJ0-yzfbI6w0NqbXHZN10F296-Sj8HGDZHbVWqcqqZqK7RvtM3mhFoWhEkJ4iYz8A2_iSSoI30vg_T/s576/platter.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="576" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4FzvcdRazWBqepHcgQ0Aw7xIoOAThyaiZwJ9B8ghQQAKeDmI4x3L5y4nHiqfqlG3DinVGUJgh0Io0VrTIsV-Kv9hd5GJd5RP_f7W4A5aFh45dTGVJ0-yzfbI6w0NqbXHZN10F296-Sj8HGDZHbVWqcqqZqK7RvtM3mhFoWhEkJ4iYz8A2_iSSoI30vg_T/w640-h640/platter.webp" width="640" /></a></div></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; font-variant-numeric: normal;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal;"><span style="vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="color: #222222;">Their <a href="https://lynnliana.com/products/acacia-medium-cheese-boards" target="_blank">Medium Acacia Cheese Board</a> </span><span style="color: #222222;">($89.95) combines beautiful Acacia hardwood with their eco-friendly resin to create a board that's a uniquely beautiful centerpiece for any appetizer table. This board is</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.6px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">8" x 16" x 5/8" -- including the handle. That's the ideal size to serve 2-4 people...perfect for small dinner parties, date night, or a fun girls' night in.<span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="576" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimlGjEcerODpXYVngoKgAc4d4yGccB_8WTA9uoXZWmfHnvkfSA2vAneE6XtFQDm53ijuqj4l2g3NzExphYNRw_ZQmqL18RvOjfiQeY3J3GpcHc6vHrvmb1oLZaEYCpd_5KCpcDOC3JQpbjkDXt4vXSm-f5cwUenAdIl2M6I8OZ4pVG8uiCSjdSL5Fe59S3/w640-h640/platter2.jpg" width="640" /></span></span></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.6px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimlGjEcerODpXYVngoKgAc4d4yGccB_8WTA9uoXZWmfHnvkfSA2vAneE6XtFQDm53ijuqj4l2g3NzExphYNRw_ZQmqL18RvOjfiQeY3J3GpcHc6vHrvmb1oLZaEYCpd_5KCpcDOC3JQpbjkDXt4vXSm-f5cwUenAdIl2M6I8OZ4pVG8uiCSjdSL5Fe59S3/s576/platter2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.6px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">I love my Lynn & Liana <a href="https://lynnliana.com/products/small-ceramic-resin-trays" target="_blank">Small Ceramic Resin Tray</a> ($39.95). They originally designed these trays as bathroom accent decor to display toiletries and jewelry. But? I use mine to organize and display condiments when entertaining! For example, I've placed small bowls of dipping sauces on it to pair with appetizers for game day. </span></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.6px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.6px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Lynn & Liana's line of serving pieces also includes ceramic resin coasters, baguette Acacia boards, and large acrylic serving trays. These items pair perfectly with both items featured here! To check out Lynn & Liana's entire line of gorgeous items, be sure to check out their <a href="https://lynnliana.com/collections/all" target="_blank">online shop</a>.</span></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.6px;"><span><a name='more'></a></span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.6px;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.delallo.com/pizza-gift-box/" target="_blank">(3) Perfect for Family-Friendly Gifting: DeLallo Pizza Night Gift Box</a>. </i>Pizza Night is<i><b> the</b></i> quintessential family-friendly weekend dinner. That means the families on your holiday shopping list are sure to appreciate receiving DeLallo's artisan Pizza Night Gift Box ($56.95). </span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4d5X8lXtTTQ9Ldaw1MHJY_k6bN5L22LoByvXHFWKwjOATMEKvzwMfwsbv3vOVRpRN7EN4jQrW0sAUO2o-5Uf79Zz84kOfGR30-_YwvbkcKpdc_G98PAHOZyJfxoAALsX92Lzhl8nlW-vNKI5mpwAsVEwQSzb-gTbZ8FhXF7irCcAs9HWxM7T6hAaGK-9h/s500/pizza.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4d5X8lXtTTQ9Ldaw1MHJY_k6bN5L22LoByvXHFWKwjOATMEKvzwMfwsbv3vOVRpRN7EN4jQrW0sAUO2o-5Uf79Zz84kOfGR30-_YwvbkcKpdc_G98PAHOZyJfxoAALsX92Lzhl8nlW-vNKI5mpwAsVEwQSzb-gTbZ8FhXF7irCcAs9HWxM7T6hAaGK-9h/w640-h640/pizza.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.6px;">Each Pizza Night Box contains the following DeLallo signature items. It's plenty of ingredients to make four thin-crust...or two standard crust...pepperoni pizzas:</span></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.6px;">Pizza Dough Kit -- <i>just add water for artisan dough</i>!</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.6px;">Pizzeria-Style Pizza Sauce</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.6px;">Short Stick 7-oz Pepperoni</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.6px;">Chopped Calabrian Chili Peppers in Jar</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.6px;">Pizza Seasoning Spice Shaker</span></span></li></ul></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc5ncLIGkTar_GJo3ps_4qJBYc8wj_b7NgdDD9j7wOvSyPjH1zPllfNsjKbb2HxT685ocFEXZErBKjnlgi9INZFGSo7iiygvH7JfcNmavs_np5I-6FBMU3HuCjeO1Mu58wtGr278NE3CdoikcRQNi3fCKYH7Rwz9_C1K64mQWbpZ7m3jT3rs_3R8vq26Sf/s500/pizza2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc5ncLIGkTar_GJo3ps_4qJBYc8wj_b7NgdDD9j7wOvSyPjH1zPllfNsjKbb2HxT685ocFEXZErBKjnlgi9INZFGSo7iiygvH7JfcNmavs_np5I-6FBMU3HuCjeO1Mu58wtGr278NE3CdoikcRQNi3fCKYH7Rwz9_C1K64mQWbpZ7m3jT3rs_3R8vq26Sf/w426-h640/pizza2.jpg" width="426" /></span></a></div><div><span style="letter-spacing: 0.6px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Simply add your favorite shredded cheese -- <a href="https://www.delallo.com/recipe/italian-pepperoni-pizza-recipe/" target="_blank">DeLallo's Italian Pepperoni Pizza recipe</a> recommends using fontina -- and other favorite toppings. All that's left to do is bake your personalized pizza creations for a perfect homemade Pizza Night! To order, visit DeLallo's easy-to-navigate <a href="https://www.delallo.com/c/italian-gift-baskets" target="_blank">online shop</a>.</span></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.6px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.6px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.stonewallkitchen.com/pretzel-grab-go-190458.html" target="_blank">***Bonus Thank You Recognition Gift: Stonewall Kitchen Pretzel & Dip Grab & Go</a>. </i>We all have people we like to recognize during the holidays for making our lives easier. These people include teachers, mail carriers, and thoughtful co-workers and neighbors. Stonewall Kitchen's Pretzel Grab & Go Gift ($13.95) contains Dipping Pretzels and a jar of savory Bacon Horseradish Mustard Dip. It's a perfect holiday nosh!</span></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.6px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitwGGWogAFeJ9HBhqLlEkQgBb2sBynsk0Hwxz20Wi9MrzMeyUAJ0siFuWsMJpp3nMWpT6W9nGCWeMDvupauhyKtJ4-WBU0CJfsLIYUH1awAgiSF3DI59zMT7OuQ9FgvGBoDb3zwJ35W-24VMEVg8pKuYY4jtmfv_IFlcSdnrtJWhG7u-xxAAmeQTjjQHvP/s1658/sk1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1658" data-original-width="1101" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitwGGWogAFeJ9HBhqLlEkQgBb2sBynsk0Hwxz20Wi9MrzMeyUAJ0siFuWsMJpp3nMWpT6W9nGCWeMDvupauhyKtJ4-WBU0CJfsLIYUH1awAgiSF3DI59zMT7OuQ9FgvGBoDb3zwJ35W-24VMEVg8pKuYY4jtmfv_IFlcSdnrtJWhG7u-xxAAmeQTjjQHvP/w424-h640/sk1.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>Both delicious snack items arrive paired inside a clear cellophane bag that's tied with a logo ribbon. Simply add a festive holiday gift tag...and you're ready to gift in minutes. Easy peasy...and delicious!</span></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.6px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.6px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Hint: This Pretzel Grab & Go set is also a FANTASTIC stocking stuffer option -- especially for the men in your life. These two snacks are perfect for football watching munchies!</span></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia; font-size: x-large; letter-spacing: 0.6px;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia; letter-spacing: 0.6px;"><b><i>Disclosure: The makers of the products featured in this year's Holiday Gift Guide for Food Lovers provided me sample items to try before recommending. All opinions shared are solely my own.</i></b></span></div>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-84749782475208172432023-12-02T14:14:00.008-06:002023-12-02T14:17:57.860-06:002023 Holiday Gift Guide for Food Lovers Part 1 #holidaygiftguide2023 #foodlovergifts #holidayfoodgifts #giftsforfoodies<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1eETDROv8KDBqNfLTXWp9FdriMtCgQ0oEMpJJrS6f460ZOQRfPXXRGQzHjU92flFE-wlGGpLQ5_hXx91ejlagEh1qetpoCEpISpedf164mGemBeWy3ztQvgdEs03xUT-82JTgxisjBdLDDIQcb55yrFS5ZnFFG_b5CLcrbc9ipE6l0PMRBWjWdrmZnOsI/s2056/holiday.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1857" data-original-width="2056" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1eETDROv8KDBqNfLTXWp9FdriMtCgQ0oEMpJJrS6f460ZOQRfPXXRGQzHjU92flFE-wlGGpLQ5_hXx91ejlagEh1qetpoCEpISpedf164mGemBeWy3ztQvgdEs03xUT-82JTgxisjBdLDDIQcb55yrFS5ZnFFG_b5CLcrbc9ipE6l0PMRBWjWdrmZnOsI/w200-h181/holiday.png" width="200" /></a></div><span>After another, l-o-n-g, hot Texas Summer, </span></span><span style="font-family: georgia;">temps are finally falling...and the holiday season is once again upon us! That can only mean one thing around here: it's time for my annual Holiday Gift Guide for Food Lovers -- my handpicked ideas for gifts that your fellow food lovers will LOVE to receive! This year, I'm featuring curated gift sets that can be shipped nationwide OR come to you boxed and ready to give...ideas for custom gift sets you can tailor to your spending budget...family-friendly gift suggestions...and perfect gifts for the party hosts on your shopping list. So? Let's get started with Part 1! </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.stonewallkitchen.com/search?q=peppermint&search-button=&lang=default" target="_blank"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhTenVW96vGfLzUiWeVu-HGlYrGeOW8RRun1qdaJNR_1C_9258iLMFeHTtFbPM-Go5PxKFctltVE0FLTW0ptr88mxEy6qr1CWpEe-wyT5f_0_8BLRxxyda3vAbffTJW385CRoEyRUPtIrcWHYggbBmlDWjYQKsWVNO9OQjF1ZbNpn42kMGhqQtmFao_snc/s225/logo.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhTenVW96vGfLzUiWeVu-HGlYrGeOW8RRun1qdaJNR_1C_9258iLMFeHTtFbPM-Go5PxKFctltVE0FLTW0ptr88mxEy6qr1CWpEe-wyT5f_0_8BLRxxyda3vAbffTJW385CRoEyRUPtIrcWHYggbBmlDWjYQKsWVNO9OQjF1ZbNpn42kMGhqQtmFao_snc/w200-h200/logo.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://www.stonewallkitchen.com/search?q=peppermint&search-button=&lang=default" target="_blank"></a></div><a href="https://www.stonewallkitchen.com/search?q=peppermint&search-button=&lang=null" target="_blank">(1) For the Peppermint Lover: Stonewall Kitchen's Peppermint Collection. </a></i>For many people, peppermint is <b><i>the</i></b> signature flavor of the holiday season! For the peppermint lovers on your holiday shopping list, Stonewall Kitchen offers a fantastic variety of peppermint-infused holiday goodies...as well as festive peppermint print kitchen linens. </span><span style="font-family: georgia;">Stonewall Kitchen's peppermint items include Peppermint Hot Chocolate, Chocolate Peppermint Brownie Mix, Chocolate Peppermint Sauce, and a coordinating peppermint fabric pot holder and dish towel. Items featured here range in price from $8.95 to $17.50.</span><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeiaojhNt9xG2guVM_50qVKj1_DfRbcTYt8Ttvetg5Sa3w5Zpq7vuTSqQg9lmyRKfYfGft4NhXAuVz26grKnAn9H-rykvuiDEPu69AK42FuHikLYEsXIpUpiqRvHdsjoCmC3O-Jdqegmi_518MetDWPTKyBYNejw7lgGGZ_zrvOEUE3P5BPxRYo9zDQa-t/s1798/sk2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1198" data-original-width="1798" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeiaojhNt9xG2guVM_50qVKj1_DfRbcTYt8Ttvetg5Sa3w5Zpq7vuTSqQg9lmyRKfYfGft4NhXAuVz26grKnAn9H-rykvuiDEPu69AK42FuHikLYEsXIpUpiqRvHdsjoCmC3O-Jdqegmi_518MetDWPTKyBYNejw7lgGGZ_zrvOEUE3P5BPxRYo9zDQa-t/w640-h426/sk2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /><span>Because these items can be purchased individually, you can easily utilize them to create affordable personalized holiday gifts. For example, the <a href="https://www.stonewallkitchen.com/peppermint-hot-chocolate-553120.html" target="_blank">Peppermint Hot Chocolate</a> ($13.95) pairs great with a colorful mug and homemade holiday cookies. It's a thoughtful DIY gift that can be enjoyed during the holidays...and into the new year! You can also select several items from the collection, then arrange them in a basket lined with their festive <a href="https://www.stonewallkitchen.com/peppermint-kitchen-towel-810347.html" target="_blank">Peppermint Kitchen Towel</a> ($10.95). Be sure to visit Stonewall Kitchen's handy <a href="https://www.stonewallkitchen.com/seasonal/" target="_blank">online store</a> to check out these great peppermint items...and their entire holiday line!</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="https://popzup.com/" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://popzup.com/" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRHxQtDJ9zYwUgpMKOsS1PdhKtPl8G6ryiPF2aVhOG7l6a2djCArSnbnYSuD73tny4UzloNWTX0lgJJAVXhf4zMQOUsTIrWyfyX2_kQ5vGa0hzYEsVEInFGH6LRWas1DDREq65mE92EBKsTXy9yAQPBmIJgpsUxPFXKaeVjaPb6dE00F7QU9uvYgRvB2-h/s1170/pop.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="870" data-original-width="1170" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRHxQtDJ9zYwUgpMKOsS1PdhKtPl8G6ryiPF2aVhOG7l6a2djCArSnbnYSuD73tny4UzloNWTX0lgJJAVXhf4zMQOUsTIrWyfyX2_kQ5vGa0hzYEsVEInFGH6LRWas1DDREq65mE92EBKsTXy9yAQPBmIJgpsUxPFXKaeVjaPb6dE00F7QU9uvYgRvB2-h/w320-h238/pop.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b><i><a href="https://popzup.com/" target="_blank">(2) Perfect for Movie Night, Date Night, or Winter Binge Watching: Popzup Popcorn</a><span>. </span></i></b>The quintessential at-home Family Night...or Date Night...is Movie Night. That means one thing: popcorn! I was introduced to Popzup Popcorn this Fall, and now I'm hooked! This family-owned company is based in New Hampshire, where they make delicious popcorn by hand using pure, simple ingredients straight from the farm: popcorn kernels, butter, and cheese. I'm sharing two great Popzup options for the holiday season: bags of delicious ready-to-eat popcorn...and their fun Movie Time Popcorn Box Kit.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYjdmVWeHjBZ9f0wXfQV4E5atIBZ9QBHR0PT2droJOiCfubF_iuk41MbkZp1jGhzoMyCdaYDsV0TL8cuDI3W3Q3V8r2-0Tu1c7_ixQ_4bw16VQrBMp4ml8GMoksiIrmc-pw34WrdsS-YzgTxDmuoFAR4pov_m8KI7HaN1T4xMhCcVOAWuoBF-d8JB2wiNt/s1170/pop1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="748" data-original-width="1170" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYjdmVWeHjBZ9f0wXfQV4E5atIBZ9QBHR0PT2droJOiCfubF_iuk41MbkZp1jGhzoMyCdaYDsV0TL8cuDI3W3Q3V8r2-0Tu1c7_ixQ_4bw16VQrBMp4ml8GMoksiIrmc-pw34WrdsS-YzgTxDmuoFAR4pov_m8KI7HaN1T4xMhCcVOAWuoBF-d8JB2wiNt/w640-h410/pop1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span>The <a href="https://popzup.com/products/try-them-all" target="_blank">Try Them All - Family Size</a> set ($28) features four 5-oz bags of Popzup's signature ready-to-eat flavors: Butter Me Up, Cheddar Head, Maple Cinnamon Toast, and Cheesy Herbie. With both savory and sweet options, there's something to please everyone! I love all these flavors, but the classic Butter Me Up...flavored simply with sea salt and sweet cream butter...is my personal favorite. For maximum movie theater vibes, I warm my bowl in the microwave for 10-15 seconds!</span><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkDSsdcY18Xmu2i-gYAhX3V6aYhTbnKiPYWs313rhVD4G0680K8lLJTbvgrCGujNwzrnub47-t1f6Gw3awuyde6thhmFtofgVGbWr7T_U4nZGmYFbKHT1bKobgpNAErHQTh4oI8LDc_ETJLVs9e6TfIwuEXC0aj3G5MxP__ouXOHh6KDlIMeXBXdMDgx9I/s963/pop2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="963" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkDSsdcY18Xmu2i-gYAhX3V6aYhTbnKiPYWs313rhVD4G0680K8lLJTbvgrCGujNwzrnub47-t1f6Gw3awuyde6thhmFtofgVGbWr7T_U4nZGmYFbKHT1bKobgpNAErHQTh4oI8LDc_ETJLVs9e6TfIwuEXC0aj3G5MxP__ouXOHh6KDlIMeXBXdMDgx9I/w640-h420/pop2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">For those who prefer to pop their own popcorn, Popzup offers a Movie Time Popcorn Kit that's available for <a href="https://popzup.com/products/movie-time-popcorn" target="_blank">microwave popping</a> ($29) OR <a href="https://popzup.com/products/movie-time-popcorn-kit-stovetop" target="_blank">stovetop popping</a> ($25). Both kits include a dozen individual packs of popcorn kernels and Popzup's signature Real Butter & Sea Salt Seasoning. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG6Mtj_NQWYQiVkd0BLyo44v_eH4dqX7AeHvPZP8MbRegyXmBdk7sLAOY4kxthEQyVKtW13VpIG8XTyJtjlOnwkbEJHoj92i8BFo0LuHgyJW2SCSlknTSMjrqZA3QXfZglfvfXvQiGA0GE3E2sCewnOll8PpzrLjEVTRksHl99uAFajZ09OlFJbCCWt9IV/s1800/popper.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1328" data-original-width="1800" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG6Mtj_NQWYQiVkd0BLyo44v_eH4dqX7AeHvPZP8MbRegyXmBdk7sLAOY4kxthEQyVKtW13VpIG8XTyJtjlOnwkbEJHoj92i8BFo0LuHgyJW2SCSlknTSMjrqZA3QXfZglfvfXvQiGA0GE3E2sCewnOll8PpzrLjEVTRksHl99uAFajZ09OlFJbCCWt9IV/w200-h148/popper.webp" width="200" /></a></div>The microwave Movie Night Kit also includes Popzup's innovative reusable microwave popcorn popper. This eco-friendly popper is </span><span style="font-family: georgia;">made with virgin paperboard that's printed with vegetable-based ink. It can easily be recycled or composted when you're ready to discard it. What a perfect gift for those who prefer to use Earth-friendly products! You can find these two gift ideas...and more...by visiting <a href="https://popzup.com/collections/all" target="_blank">Popzup's online shop</a>. For my Texas readers, I also have purchased bags of Popzup at my local Central Market.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span><i style="font-weight: bold;">(3) For the Coffee Lover: DIY Coffee Set With <a href="https://www.peets.com/collections/k-cup-pods" target="_blank">Peet's Coffee K-Cup® Pods</a>, <a href="https://www.skinnymixes.com/collections/holiday-collection" target="_blank">Skinny Mixes Holiday Sugar Free Syrups</a>, and a Meaningful Mug. </i>Coffee lovers on your holiday gift list will go nuts for a gift set featuring their favorite K-Cup</span><i style="font-weight: bold;">® </i><span>pods and yummy sugar-free flavoring syrups. Peet's Coffee has a line of </span><a href="https://www.peets.com/collections/k-cup-pods" target="_blank"><span>K-Cup</span><i style="font-weight: bold;">® </i></a><span><a href="https://www.peets.com/collections/k-cup-pods" target="_blank">pods </a> ($9.99 per 10-pod box) that includes their 2023 seasonal <a href="https://www.peets.com/products/holiday-blend-kcup-pods" target="_blank">Holiday Blend</a> and Peppermint Mocha...as well as year-round favorites Caramel Brûlee, and Hazelnut Mocha. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmljjcsMygaKspqrkK9VyaZ55k8CNGpdEGiHUOWbSnt3VahhzXFWjbajn5DUN_laP_E1u5ptwvxJqy1jdPGtm5B-XzyoR3DsdCxAkRx3lPzDqR0OKySfkrPWc1jA2-z46TupiM83XCkJfZqKSsxdAle-NAtwZMPAiJ_w61ihzyZnNxGDCs_H_RNT4hZaco/s1799/peet.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1288" data-original-width="1799" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmljjcsMygaKspqrkK9VyaZ55k8CNGpdEGiHUOWbSnt3VahhzXFWjbajn5DUN_laP_E1u5ptwvxJqy1jdPGtm5B-XzyoR3DsdCxAkRx3lPzDqR0OKySfkrPWc1jA2-z46TupiM83XCkJfZqKSsxdAle-NAtwZMPAiJ_w61ihzyZnNxGDCs_H_RNT4hZaco/w640-h458/peet.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Next, select a duo of delicious sugar-free <a href="https://www.skinnymixes.com/collections/holiday-collection" target="_blank">Holiday Skinny Syrups</a> ($7.99/bottle) that coordinate with your selected Peet's Coffee flavors. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0oxRU_y-6qyozTQ2pKukjJwvkz8NLqoEAcWqFancCIq7t6i7pP59ebkX5oA3bhH80oh74KPCEMf3mydn0QxXHw-fpaYOYalxXVT9kfKQ1t4efd7p0EYYOm-FOKPA-EUu1np4cZf-3hH2J5WfkBTKM5HakvowJyCg0beGb82sP4aeDKrvXOIfUvPU3bOYu/s1800/ss.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0oxRU_y-6qyozTQ2pKukjJwvkz8NLqoEAcWqFancCIq7t6i7pP59ebkX5oA3bhH80oh74KPCEMf3mydn0QxXHw-fpaYOYalxXVT9kfKQ1t4efd7p0EYYOm-FOKPA-EUu1np4cZf-3hH2J5WfkBTKM5HakvowJyCg0beGb82sP4aeDKrvXOIfUvPU3bOYu/w640-h640/ss.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Flavors in Jordan's Skinny Mixes 2023 Holiday Collection include:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Sugar Cookie</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Peppermint Bark</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">White Chocolate Peppermint</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Eggnog</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Chestnut Praline</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Spiced Cranberry</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Gingerbread Latte</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Naturally Sweetened Peppermint Mocha -- sweetened with stevia, monk fruit, and erythritol</span></li></ul><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Once your coffee and syrups are selected, add a fun coffee mug that matches your recipient's personality or favorite hobby. Finally, add everything to a clear cellophane gift bag...and tie with a festive holiday ribbon. Boom! A DIY coffee gift that's customized to their personal favorite flavors.</span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ukQJsyn-A4zqV6ll8Mwevg_MaaEDGSufgJgn-GZBxwUXATr7ukdXPt3dg3VvpihZQv2KRyV2vsotKUyrAHeioVdWpNp00nqZdD0PBs3kiMRH83LRNdWfiO8P8uszAmAuh5l8obRglWN4YZXT1yUhyphenhyphenkf950y0P66ZJtwJMRg35Y0NpplAP9IN66-ZV5VP/s1799/coffee.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1799" data-original-width="1439" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ukQJsyn-A4zqV6ll8Mwevg_MaaEDGSufgJgn-GZBxwUXATr7ukdXPt3dg3VvpihZQv2KRyV2vsotKUyrAHeioVdWpNp00nqZdD0PBs3kiMRH83LRNdWfiO8P8uszAmAuh5l8obRglWN4YZXT1yUhyphenhyphenkf950y0P66ZJtwJMRg35Y0NpplAP9IN66-ZV5VP/w512-h640/coffee.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Be sure to come back Monday for Part 2 of this year's Holiday Gift Guide for Food Lovers! I'll be sharing a trio of gifts that are family friendly...or perfect for the entertainers on your holiday shopping list.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b><i>Disclosure: These makers of these items provided me with sample items to try out before recommending to my readers. All opinions are solely my own.</i></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div></div></div><p></p>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-83816767667003503292023-11-02T12:29:00.000-05:002023-11-02T12:29:11.122-05:00Celebrating the Arrival of Soup Weather...with Yucatan Chicken-Lime Soup aka Sopa de Lima #chickensoup #soupweather #comfortfood<p><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AP62QCwQKp4/WIThSxhvCxI/AAAAAAAAWT0/kIa4_3Gl7jw6CH-sQOSRQIiCSssKWz1DgCLcB/s1600/sopa2.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="488" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AP62QCwQKp4/WIThSxhvCxI/AAAAAAAAWT0/kIa4_3Gl7jw6CH-sQOSRQIiCSssKWz1DgCLcB/s640/sopa2.JPG" width="640" /></a></p><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">During a Cancun vacation several years ago, we took a day trip to Merida. While there, we had a flavorful chicken soup our entire group raved about. We loved it so much that I found a recipe for this soup online so I could make it when we returned home. Sopa de Lima aka Yucatan Chicken-Lime Soup is similar to chicken-tortilla soup...with a refreshing citrus flavor. I have a few tips I've discovered over the years to ensure the best flavor in the finished soup:</span><br /><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">First, I use skinless bone-in chicken breasts to give my broth a deeper chicken flavor. Per a chef we met in Merida, I add lime juice AND simmer lime halves in the broth for 15 minutes before serving. This allows the lime's citrus oil to infuse a deeper lime flavor into the soup. Finally, I add a bit of grated Cotija cheese to the top of each bowl before serving -- because a little cheese is never a bad thing!</span><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Yucatan Chicken-Lime Soup </i></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><i>(Sopa de Lima)</i></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>adapted from Rick Bayless and a Chef in Merida, MX</b></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7Stog1wtcbY/WIThS0TQjZI/AAAAAAAAWT8/6jympJ1bpx08vU8eymyLc6J9fTabPteHQCEw/s1600/sopa1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="486" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7Stog1wtcbY/WIThS0TQjZI/AAAAAAAAWT8/6jympJ1bpx08vU8eymyLc6J9fTabPteHQCEw/s640/sopa1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i><b><u>Ingredients (makes 6-8 bowls of soup)</u>:</b></i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 TBS olive oil</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 cup chopped yellow onion</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 medium carrot, thinly sliced</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">2 celery stalks, thinly sliced</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">3-4 garlic cloves, finely chopped or grated</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">2-3 bay leaves</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp. dried Mexican oregano</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 large tomato, seeded and chopped</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">8 cups chicken stock</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">2 large skinless, bone-in chicken breasts -- about 1.5 lbs.</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">2-3 green onions, thinly sliced</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">3 limes</span></li><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Garnishes: shredded Cotija or Monterrey Jack cheese, diced avocado, crushed tortilla chips OR fried corn tortilla strips, chopped cilantro, and additional wedges of lime</span></li></ul></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Step 1: </b>Add olive oil to a large Dutch oven -- I used a 5-quart capacity. Heat over Med-High heat. When the oil is hot, add the onion, ca</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">rrot, celery, and jalapeno. Stir and cook until the veggies are soft -- about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, bay leaves, and Mexican oregano. Stir to combine, then cook for 1-2 minutes.</span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B55gbL0t3tM/USlIeaTLwZI/AAAAAAAAIuo/EKmMNnm0gn4/s1600/P1100220.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B55gbL0t3tM/USlIeaTLwZI/AAAAAAAAIuo/EKmMNnm0gn4/s640/P1100220.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Step 2: </b>Add the chopped tomato. Stir to combine, then cook for 4-5 minutes. Add the chicken stock and chicken breasts. Bring to a boil, then lower heat so the soup gently simmers. Cover and simmer the soup for 1 hour, until the chicken is cooked through.</span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2U9mT57IrrE/USlIgHF7OLI/AAAAAAAAIuw/81a5OMF6zF8/s1600/P1100223.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2U9mT57IrrE/USlIgHF7OLI/AAAAAAAAIuw/81a5OMF6zF8/s640/P1100223.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yYlDazoPJSQ/USlIbp75DmI/AAAAAAAAIug/5M4grkBY2T4/s1600/P1100224.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="460" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yYlDazoPJSQ/USlIbp75DmI/AAAAAAAAIug/5M4grkBY2T4/s640/P1100224.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Step 3: </b><span>After an hour, r</span><span>e</span>move the cooked chicken from the pot and set aside to cool. Cut the limes in half, and add their juice to the soup. Then, place the lime halves into the soup to simmer for 15 minutes. </span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hcsr945RdFs/USlIqqxvp4I/AAAAAAAAIu4/4scUzJAtgEs/s1600/P1100225.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hcsr945RdFs/USlIqqxvp4I/AAAAAAAAIu4/4scUzJAtgEs/s640/P1100225.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div><div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-weight: bold;">Step 4: </i><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">After 15 minutes, discard the lime</span><i style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-weight: bold;"> </i><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span>halves. Add the shredded chicken and green onions </span><span>to the soup, and stir well to combine. Let the soup sit covered -- off the heat -- for 5-10 minutes. This ensures all the flavors are fully incorporated.</span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">To serve, ladle soup into deep bowls. Top each bowl with crushed tortilla chips or fried corn tortilla strips, cheese, avocado, and chopped cilantro. Serve additional lime wedges on the side for those who want an extra burst of fresh lime.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3zOCuvjfym8/USlIyFbPjLI/AAAAAAAAIvI/q6TjNZSss3s/s1600/P1100230.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3zOCuvjfym8/USlIyFbPjLI/AAAAAAAAIvI/q6TjNZSss3s/s640/P1100230.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TS6UrPfDgig/USlI2O88dLI/AAAAAAAAIvQ/gegSJS1rAic/s1600/P1100240.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TS6UrPfDgig/USlI2O88dLI/AAAAAAAAIvQ/gegSJS1rAic/s640/P1100240.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">This is one delicious soup...it's definitely a complete meal in a bowl thanks to all the chicken and hearty toppings! The first thing you taste is the punch of lime, but it's not overpowering. It balances perfectly with the rich broth, earthy tortilla strips, creamy avocado, and gooey cheese. I make a pot of this soup... from chopping veggies to eating...in about 1.5 hours. The majority of that time is hands off as the soup simmers.</span></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-6586271319330648282023-10-24T15:17:00.003-05:002023-10-24T15:17:43.861-05:00Checking Out the Seasonal Fall Menu at First Watch #firstwatch #fallflavors #breakfastandbrunch<p><span><a href="https://www.firstwatch.com/" target="_blank"></a></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: georgia; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinEWiLkQLJUdC0NQXoGrPdQoF7cgGRzsQcFCieVXvP5gjBnJH7dcaw2CMJy4at3SbZ_2XDms1gCCfnlPBmlMsn7THB37jXLD0hcXcq6HJQb4b5H2AiFXHcFRQu6JRmmo3k_4R8v_L3r32HeYQR6w57GFrdkueTkokYSyh6pPVXkTihk5cQBiPsRjBrxqUz/s251/fw1.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="251" data-original-width="228" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinEWiLkQLJUdC0NQXoGrPdQoF7cgGRzsQcFCieVXvP5gjBnJH7dcaw2CMJy4at3SbZ_2XDms1gCCfnlPBmlMsn7THB37jXLD0hcXcq6HJQb4b5H2AiFXHcFRQu6JRmmo3k_4R8v_L3r32HeYQR6w57GFrdkueTkokYSyh6pPVXkTihk5cQBiPsRjBrxqUz/w182-h200/fw1.jpg" width="182" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span style="font-family: georgia;">First Watch</span><span style="font-family: georgia;"> restaurant recently unveiled its <a href="https://www.firstwatch.com/menu/" target="_blank">seasonal Fall menu items</a>. I recently had a chance to stop by my neighborhood First Watch location to try a few of these special, limited edition menu items. If you've never eaten at First Watch before, they feature a </span></span><span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Daytime Dining concept that features a chef-driven menu of breakfast, brunch, and lunch items. I grabbed one of my team members for a relaxing weekday brunch. The Fall menu centers on warm and cozy Fall flavors like pumpkin, cinnamon, and flavorful hearty entrees. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">We started our meal with a duo of beverages -- a flavorful iced coffee and a fruit-forward cocktail. The </span></span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia;">Honey Caramel Crunch Iced Coffee was introduced this Summer...and was so popular that it's sticking around for Fall. It features </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia;">a salted caramel drizzle and sweet honey-flavored coffee. It's topped with sweet cream cold foam and crunchy toffee crumbles. So good! </span></span><p></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwQh62MTQ8dOwt89e-hRc3ECC6VIIc01pGHT0UBFsrPScT-tXg51lAzXznHqV4bX4XEsUPt6ewddWIXas-HjYcUp_haq7YMRK4s8As8ZwNBLoFX_GTpbpAkMSlwgJkJtEs0D_yJjcEwGFOKt-fPX9BD7wHc0bDdLArm3J7mH9OpHw_L4Evq5mqjrKthVWi/s1799/fw4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1285" data-original-width="1799" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwQh62MTQ8dOwt89e-hRc3ECC6VIIc01pGHT0UBFsrPScT-tXg51lAzXznHqV4bX4XEsUPt6ewddWIXas-HjYcUp_haq7YMRK4s8As8ZwNBLoFX_GTpbpAkMSlwgJkJtEs0D_yJjcEwGFOKt-fPX9BD7wHc0bDdLArm3J7mH9OpHw_L4Evq5mqjrKthVWi/w640-h458/fw4.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #222222;">We also tried a fruit-forward Pomegranate Sunrise -- which combined Camarena Tequila, tart pomegranate juice and fresh lime, and sweet agave nectar. The presentation of this cocktail was really fun too...cheers!</span></span><p></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3HXVDZPwlUILNrApbT09nzFBq8t8B611H_hclTZvoGoPurKqwvgJ_gxoqj2sMKAZSS2o2UcwNTHHxG6RUvbvh5JryNoYj70-Ij3yX4765-stb4Yp38HgqF05jUOuPgH6ux_pexVrBfk1n-N23oxjJmamxbT9UOhesh4tHvoGC6sMRejhlILplpsH_zLtb/s1438/fw6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1438" data-original-width="1170" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3HXVDZPwlUILNrApbT09nzFBq8t8B611H_hclTZvoGoPurKqwvgJ_gxoqj2sMKAZSS2o2UcwNTHHxG6RUvbvh5JryNoYj70-Ij3yX4765-stb4Yp38HgqF05jUOuPgH6ux_pexVrBfk1n-N23oxjJmamxbT9UOhesh4tHvoGC6sMRejhlILplpsH_zLtb/w520-h640/fw6.jpg" width="520" /></a></span></div><p></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">For our duo of entrees, we picked one savory...and one with a bit of sweetness. The Barbacoa Quesadilla Benedict was spicy goodness! It features two beef barbacoa quesadillas prepared quesa birria style. The cheesy quesadillas are topped with two cage-free eggs, Vera Cruz hollandaise sauce, spicy ranchero sauce, and sliced scallions. The dish is accompanied by seasoned black beans topped with house-made pico de gallo. This dish hearty and savory...perfect for sharing!</span></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx9YWTHOPhFVVM4Rod6N0n7-4EpnTFKaTPY4RDKTeB5uF0ageMEYM4wTbMmGodQBK2ggyN66LR5cYBoKsGqBgKBq29EHd9lCrGgrJqCeGBHmX4bzk0N4R-lKZukyVKG-CjCtjOsm3_AbF4p-xZ3jMQQiCxBioWXA5fjrqmTa19tUYqSFwlM46Z8AzQ2GW5/s1799/fw3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1799" data-original-width="1439" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx9YWTHOPhFVVM4Rod6N0n7-4EpnTFKaTPY4RDKTeB5uF0ageMEYM4wTbMmGodQBK2ggyN66LR5cYBoKsGqBgKBq29EHd9lCrGgrJqCeGBHmX4bzk0N4R-lKZukyVKG-CjCtjOsm3_AbF4p-xZ3jMQQiCxBioWXA5fjrqmTa19tUYqSFwlM46Z8AzQ2GW5/w512-h640/fw3.jpg" width="512" /></span></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;">Our second entree was a Pumpkin Pancake Breakfast. The centerpiece of this plate was a large, fluffy spiced pumpkin pancake -- a quintessential taste of Fall. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia;">The spiced pumpkin pancake was paired with two sunny-side-up eggs and a savory Jones Dairy Farm chicken sausage patty.</span></span></p><p><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRVfoKW52KSbKffBf-gbvFZxoIBzB8bgY9dLukr0jZy4RkCbKrHVGOXPqbWxLhifE9vInEXgK7eTYrHWKZy_MGaUOwpkuBBFgmJORp7yqh9ntomD4jwF5xlV8fHrLRDzfc2tV3kUwCZi2DdDqnW7O7RUeA3K5nIbI-1qjpJBaAGA9xwA0acspAGOGt-YXQ/s1465/fw2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1465" data-original-width="1170" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRVfoKW52KSbKffBf-gbvFZxoIBzB8bgY9dLukr0jZy4RkCbKrHVGOXPqbWxLhifE9vInEXgK7eTYrHWKZy_MGaUOwpkuBBFgmJORp7yqh9ntomD4jwF5xlV8fHrLRDzfc2tV3kUwCZi2DdDqnW7O7RUeA3K5nIbI-1qjpJBaAGA9xwA0acspAGOGt-YXQ/w512-h640/fw2.jpg" width="512" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span></span></span><p><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: large;">This is a traditional breakfast combo that offers the perfect amount of seasonal Fall flavor. If you enjoy sweet and savory flavors together on one plate, this Pumpkin Pancake Breakfast is a perfect way to start your day! </span></span></p><p><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: large;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">We ended our meal on a sweet note with First Watch's seasonal Cinnamon Spice Churros, which were served with a duo of dipping sauces on the side: Mexican Mocha and Salted Caramel. Crispy churros...flavored with warm cinnamon spice...and dipped into decadent sauces? What a fun final course!</span></div><p></p><p><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvS3XU-WAtBiIY-bK3KvvjIX7CXIPuw_Sj7d5cv8cpFP8yCJv6YEKyC1rw7f-G2I-nuT3dYzxcIt9zWMYRqBKSg3m94VM17SjVArc_cPqqQmDrsB18l85NQpHYdWeV4Ib3QfMOkZJmTwV-DZWps8aW9H4iVoW7TqMpZ4vR3M8eIcsjFphGWuCVj6WahdUK/s1471/fw5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1471" data-original-width="1170" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvS3XU-WAtBiIY-bK3KvvjIX7CXIPuw_Sj7d5cv8cpFP8yCJv6YEKyC1rw7f-G2I-nuT3dYzxcIt9zWMYRqBKSg3m94VM17SjVArc_cPqqQmDrsB18l85NQpHYdWeV4Ib3QfMOkZJmTwV-DZWps8aW9H4iVoW7TqMpZ4vR3M8eIcsjFphGWuCVj6WahdUK/w510-h640/fw5.jpg" width="510" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">If you want to try First Watch's seasonal Fall offerings, you need to act quickly -- because these are limited-time-only menu items. To find a First Watch location near you, check out their handy searchable online <a href="https://www.firstwatch.com/locations/" target="_blank">Location Finder</a>.</span></div><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span><b><i style="background-color: white;">Disclosure: First Watch hosted The Weekend Gourmet team for a complimentary tasting of their seasonal Fall menu. All opinions expressed are solely my own.</i></b></span></span></p>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-28754286986841108082023-10-14T13:11:00.000-05:002023-10-14T13:11:30.364-05:00My Experience Trying the Sunbasket Meal Delivery Service #sunbasket #mealdelivery #healthyandeasy <p><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglihC0V6-tUhyBTXJreJXIBcp-tq7JkExvDbn0I-4-4c7oNl2PO1PN3VGIg5uDBU9QO1FyzZX192zpo6E7Lg43OuK5sX6AD6wc4DnA60_Lpj4uHEsD2C-j7rhgRNcAf5v3dIhMHrpRuc4IP-wK77S67c8uNc6vAkGfnkuRsa0u0UeA1G_lxwnE2KRTq4FI/s391/sun8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="180" data-original-width="391" height="92" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglihC0V6-tUhyBTXJreJXIBcp-tq7JkExvDbn0I-4-4c7oNl2PO1PN3VGIg5uDBU9QO1FyzZX192zpo6E7Lg43OuK5sX6AD6wc4DnA60_Lpj4uHEsD2C-j7rhgRNcAf5v3dIhMHrpRuc4IP-wK77S67c8uNc6vAkGfnkuRsa0u0UeA1G_lxwnE2KRTq4FI/w200-h92/sun8.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></span></div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">I recently had the opportunity to try <a href="https://sunbasket.com/" target="_blank">Sunbasket</a>'s meal delivery service, and I have to say I am very impressed! I especially loved that Sunbasket provides two different meal options available for ordering: (1) Meal Kit recipes AND (2) Fresh & Easy ready-to-eat meals. That flexibility allowed me cook when I had time to spend in the kitchen...and simply reheat a delicious meal in the oven or microwave on my most hectic days.</span></span><p></p><p><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Sunbasket's tagline, "Your Kind of Healthy," immediately caught my eye. To that end, Sunbasket offers customers a customized meal selection process. Each week's menu selections can be filtered for eight popular nutrition plans -- including Diabetes-Friendly, Carb-Conscious, and Vegetarian. Menus can be further filtered to focus on...or avoid...specific kinds of foods. </span></span></p><p><span style="text-align: center;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo1CBEujHNvh4Fbspt9_e1BxavC1wJ1t5Xh8L9-R5ANANY-C4JDiDrlTKBk-swAXIQt9AoPRyYAazGP6dSR2kpYwJhPN6QuD8XIB8hqT2l72A3vLzeg6OQtzk8zszBy6O-OA4dHld8Lqk7ZosxHmutOZ43rb8jWZwJLTRe8E_-9ul51ouzb4GGOyrEEO5S/s1801/sun10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1801" data-original-width="1286" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo1CBEujHNvh4Fbspt9_e1BxavC1wJ1t5Xh8L9-R5ANANY-C4JDiDrlTKBk-swAXIQt9AoPRyYAazGP6dSR2kpYwJhPN6QuD8XIB8hqT2l72A3vLzeg6OQtzk8zszBy6O-OA4dHld8Lqk7ZosxHmutOZ43rb8jWZwJLTRe8E_-9ul51ouzb4GGOyrEEO5S/w456-h640/sun10.jpg" width="456" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">From there, Sunbasket filters each week's menu options to offer customers recipes that match their personal dietary needs. The last step is to select the number of menu items you want included in your box...between 2 and 5...and whether you want 2 or 4 servings for each selected meal. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFauTcA1m1fIWK73Sw3suY6a26_u_YaHEHteVkPUk_X1zHwB1WTdljw0Dy2oF5Dl_SoqH2KPa5K1__EAYHXmRFOpPjA30aq8N5R06uREG3vS8pgQCgQOPETI70ykSVzTjLNBXTCNp1qzfio_o2tmbo0mRGoxho_KM6xfAs07JIkj8PiQ0I52Ym62ZjvgW4/s2296/sun9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2296" data-original-width="1882" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFauTcA1m1fIWK73Sw3suY6a26_u_YaHEHteVkPUk_X1zHwB1WTdljw0Dy2oF5Dl_SoqH2KPa5K1__EAYHXmRFOpPjA30aq8N5R06uREG3vS8pgQCgQOPETI70ykSVzTjLNBXTCNp1qzfio_o2tmbo0mRGoxho_KM6xfAs07JIkj8PiQ0I52Ym62ZjvgW4/w524-h640/sun9.jpg" width="524" /></a></div></div><p></p><p><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="text-align: left;">I loved seeing just the menu items that matched my personal eating habits...such a time saver! </span>I follow a Carb-Conscious eating plan these days, so filtered for that. I also eat mostly chicken and seafood...and I've reduced my consumption of beef and other red meat. Based on this individualized input, Sunbasket recommended several delicious options for my four-meal (two servings each) box. I selected two easy, healthy recipes: </span></span></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Migas with Crisp Tortilla Strips, Chorizo, Eggs, and Salsa Verde</span></span></li><li><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Mediterranean Honey-Harissa Salmon with Apple-Cabbage Slaw</span></span></li></ul><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgegfWCKC1FYX5tsWMuHGVok_2T9KGJHDP2qFAa90F0AhaOLDme7R1gapECEhxjtcueD2x2VbCpfTsxhTJIoYbE33853ugqqXX876aYgnBzCeROBludwMwTC1YD2DQC_IAatRxcEug5_wt7W2_YILlnwrVTlF8zCNCk4_yW18MzmUoBAK-fzASdLIVxbYQw/s3664/sun2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3664" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgegfWCKC1FYX5tsWMuHGVok_2T9KGJHDP2qFAa90F0AhaOLDme7R1gapECEhxjtcueD2x2VbCpfTsxhTJIoYbE33853ugqqXX876aYgnBzCeROBludwMwTC1YD2DQC_IAatRxcEug5_wt7W2_YILlnwrVTlF8zCNCk4_yW18MzmUoBAK-fzASdLIVxbYQw/w528-h640/sun2.jpg" width="528" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">My box arrived at my door on my selected delivery date. My two recipe meals were neatly organized with all ingredients needed to cook them packed inside of two labeled paper bags. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><a name='more'></a></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9_PshD33TYub5hFJwuH3S1E3uc98i4MnRBY8Ey-in9iebBFGERlZgDtUQJOpAnwIx28GSmEZcjImd1sRRMs55uJ7ncXSZaOOUSerUIahw9Pc3C6AYsfgHJvnDQR794SfhshsZcHDw-FGoFO57O4Mj44qxmmh7pIoGYL5XnkFMI7BJsS9NT4eRuCmGv6Y2/s1799/sun4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1799" data-original-width="1439" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9_PshD33TYub5hFJwuH3S1E3uc98i4MnRBY8Ey-in9iebBFGERlZgDtUQJOpAnwIx28GSmEZcjImd1sRRMs55uJ7ncXSZaOOUSerUIahw9Pc3C6AYsfgHJvnDQR794SfhshsZcHDw-FGoFO57O4Mj44qxmmh7pIoGYL5XnkFMI7BJsS9NT4eRuCmGv6Y2/w512-h640/sun4.jpg" width="512" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">The Fresh & Ready meals arrived in ready-to-bake containers that were sealed in plastic for freshness. Everything was securely packed and kept perfectly cool via frozen gels packs. Even in the Texas late Summer heat, my box contents remained perfectly cold.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZClK9WRnLItD3FoQi2akUEA-ahG9dBDcus-33WrKmMxMIhDmBwmKGc6vos1Z0B9WvomH0qq7jPrG-MG3YBzbmXnA6hyJ10COa88fPm-qoTpwbVHL3BMEbY1NgqSHBiiGV9h8loHVjha7wcmpLoWDGUvCThoxl1GgvMMZ1kIoW1PmhYtd11WnOlwbHINz4/s3577/sun5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2342" data-original-width="3577" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZClK9WRnLItD3FoQi2akUEA-ahG9dBDcus-33WrKmMxMIhDmBwmKGc6vos1Z0B9WvomH0qq7jPrG-MG3YBzbmXnA6hyJ10COa88fPm-qoTpwbVHL3BMEbY1NgqSHBiiGV9h8loHVjha7wcmpLoWDGUvCThoxl1GgvMMZ1kIoW1PmhYtd11WnOlwbHINz4/w320-h210/sun5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Both of the recipe meals I cooked were delicious, and they made enough food for me to enjoy dinner + lunch the next day. The salmon meal came with every ingredient needed to cook a gourmet-quality meal in about 30 minutes. Sunbasket provided the perfect amount of fresh organic produce, salmon portions, and seasonings and sauces to make two servings. Easy prep...and zero waste! The only ingredient I had to add from my kitchen pantry was a bit of olive oil to sautee the squash. This was a delicious meal with a bit of exotic flavor. Hightly recommend!<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0HxI6Jl4LicF3IXSkA98o_0ihkMTq-WzxDZXEzkI64a5WgKk5TX1Uc-E5431Dh4RAvPUPmkBCfRQstwbcaFjwHkLAcCNsPd8nhl8o-vI24bHP5CLottykkX_PwpIgcqmiJFb-zTghbXt3RVhfSvWsB3WnVkZQ_rzI3O4c8PdgZ7JgsdTJUdZphY2bScbR/s4030/sun6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2843" data-original-width="4030" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0HxI6Jl4LicF3IXSkA98o_0ihkMTq-WzxDZXEzkI64a5WgKk5TX1Uc-E5431Dh4RAvPUPmkBCfRQstwbcaFjwHkLAcCNsPd8nhl8o-vI24bHP5CLottykkX_PwpIgcqmiJFb-zTghbXt3RVhfSvWsB3WnVkZQ_rzI3O4c8PdgZ7JgsdTJUdZphY2bScbR/w640-h452/sun6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO27x5bfad2QMZkaZOPfk2rlpS-SKshLe1EtOyNi2Szb_GJp-qEAHmtmFSPMjvAxZMwUPMRsJloCmx_k7g8y2s8R0G-6OE9PAhc8B1FwnoaVfVGek2rWVlwRlHp8XinYVP0HDKALDEizV5MFwPN24PRps4USSRG0Emq3LPJjA1epMhVmOuiX5dXGSqrrbj/s1800/sun1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO27x5bfad2QMZkaZOPfk2rlpS-SKshLe1EtOyNi2Szb_GJp-qEAHmtmFSPMjvAxZMwUPMRsJloCmx_k7g8y2s8R0G-6OE9PAhc8B1FwnoaVfVGek2rWVlwRlHp8XinYVP0HDKALDEizV5MFwPN24PRps4USSRG0Emq3LPJjA1epMhVmOuiX5dXGSqrrbj/w640-h640/sun1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large; text-align: center;">I also selected two Fresh & Ready Meals:</span><p></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Roasted Chicken Breast with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce and Broccoli</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Chicken Chow Mein with Broccoli, Mushrooms, and Toasted Garlic</span></li></ul><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNjoWC02RNFgevAAKJCd2DX6WxZVrCV0VlmwAiHRo-48XDGAb6gygarKy6G6o7NVSeyp7Estkjxqq4RSxsnz06EQl25On6w2QvpiTe6Ux9H5uYnfVP5JnAm9TDnbIK7SOheNpklHaS4qDKfTxbK5jjiKynWMuAgKo85C4ZIvtxeH59rrEzArFR6padi2UL/s1470/sun3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1470" data-original-width="1161" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNjoWC02RNFgevAAKJCd2DX6WxZVrCV0VlmwAiHRo-48XDGAb6gygarKy6G6o7NVSeyp7Estkjxqq4RSxsnz06EQl25On6w2QvpiTe6Ux9H5uYnfVP5JnAm9TDnbIK7SOheNpklHaS4qDKfTxbK5jjiKynWMuAgKo85C4ZIvtxeH59rrEzArFR6padi2UL/w506-h640/sun3.jpg" width="506" /></a></div></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Both meals warmed up in my oven in about 20 minutes, but the microwave heating option is even quicker! The Fresh & Ready meal portions were filling, and the quality rivaled anything I could order from a restaurant. Both Fresh & Ready meals were head and shoulders above a typical frozen meal -- especially the chow mein. Zero prep, healthy ingredients, and delicious taste? It doesn't get better...or easier...on a busy day!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVYPSuA2HRls_BmtRwO0p_CPDiD3FldnXQwPyWR0sYy8VRaGXxDuBdtH6FgkzJnaJQVsfuAV6WHSSE5i9Qb2ljROpmc7YttjFUKWOyZbukoD4J0PA4EDLO3ZaEocd-8H8Bqc70h6DCPdXh6AVl2UaRWHrWSIe19K0g93hGktZ9cNFYe-G1SjzSaYZx3k_Q/s768/sun11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="768" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVYPSuA2HRls_BmtRwO0p_CPDiD3FldnXQwPyWR0sYy8VRaGXxDuBdtH6FgkzJnaJQVsfuAV6WHSSE5i9Qb2ljROpmc7YttjFUKWOyZbukoD4J0PA4EDLO3ZaEocd-8H8Bqc70h6DCPdXh6AVl2UaRWHrWSIe19K0g93hGktZ9cNFYe-G1SjzSaYZx3k_Q/w200-h133/sun11.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Bottom line: I love my Sunbasket experience! The weekly menus are customized to the way that *I* like to eat, and the food tastes delicious. I can pick the delivery day that works best for me each week...or even skip a week or two if that works best for my schedule. Total flexibility! Prices for Meal Kit items start at $11.49 per serving, while Fresh & Ready meals start at $9.99 each. If you want to try Sunbasket meal delivery yourself...and access their current sign-up pricing promotions...<a href="https://sunbasket.com/join" target="_blank">visit their website</a>. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b><i>Disclosure: Sunbasket sent me a complimentary four-meal box to try out in my kitchen. All opinions offered here are solely my opinion.</i></b></span></div>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-10660733126061767542023-10-03T11:44:00.001-05:002023-10-03T11:44:37.765-05:00Fall Sipping with Pumpkin Pie Hot White Chocolate #pumpkinseason #hotwhitechocolate #fewercarbs #lesssugar #athomebarista<p> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N1FZ6EhkTKA/W_Qv6yr__VI/AAAAAAAAYz8/K8BfZ8BTTKcVsnDdevvVh51TrODovCMFgCLcBGAs/s1600/pum4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1393" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N1FZ6EhkTKA/W_Qv6yr__VI/AAAAAAAAYz8/K8BfZ8BTTKcVsnDdevvVh51TrODovCMFgCLcBGAs/s640/pum4.jpg" width="556" /></span></a></p><p><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPft8r59YqKQtf_jAaGW7fosN6PnqRUd5jpjaWtWxirOX0ZQZFni8xkjfBgo42hJBzbwiSijYP1H70LDvCRFUWF4Vfx6qKBlefefwE0iwIPvnIRQC7y5LO9f6j9j4TUgMEWSGSjjXdnHOgzHkf8dGLyXt_ejP91kLw-k56qksBkVYUF3XHE9aWf2zqlSPO/s225/pump.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPft8r59YqKQtf_jAaGW7fosN6PnqRUd5jpjaWtWxirOX0ZQZFni8xkjfBgo42hJBzbwiSijYP1H70LDvCRFUWF4Vfx6qKBlefefwE0iwIPvnIRQC7y5LO9f6j9j4TUgMEWSGSjjXdnHOgzHkf8dGLyXt_ejP91kLw-k56qksBkVYUF3XHE9aWf2zqlSPO/s16000/pump.jpg" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It's officially Fall, which means it's finally pumpkin spice latte season. But...what if you don't drink coffee? No problem...I've got you covered! Here's an easy recipe for a warm and creamy seasonal white chocolate cocoa. It's a perfect sip as the days turn cooler. My Pumpkin Pie Hot White Chocolate is like sipping a piece of pumpkin pie. It smells absolutely <i>amazing </i>as it simmers on the stove, and it's ready to enjoy in minutes! As an added bonus, I'm also providing easy ingredient substitutions to enjoy this decadent drink with less sugar and fewer carbs. These tweaks allow me to enjoy pumpkin spice flavors...in a healthier way!</span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.004) 1px 1px 1px;"><span style="color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><b><i>Pumpkin Pie Hot White Chocolate</i></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.004) 1px 1px 1px;"><span style="color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><b><i>a Weekend Gourmet original</i></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.004) 1px 1px 1px;"><span style="color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWRRxgrdeg-IfkuAgrT-jl3clPWIKd31sNJUsYLbbG4TebQc9CW3AaoLZvs8tLUYzbMTw-w6BMG95gQnwjXzcVsm6R5dJ5B_j8P_4Te8OI5wyH8FBBktalHt4sVSBPcKeTD3nKKUjNckTIW1LuB-MWPxj3rxx7uRHDnBywfaJSCb-tNcMC3ZKDVNS3F6hq/s640/cocoa3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="374" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWRRxgrdeg-IfkuAgrT-jl3clPWIKd31sNJUsYLbbG4TebQc9CW3AaoLZvs8tLUYzbMTw-w6BMG95gQnwjXzcVsm6R5dJ5B_j8P_4Te8OI5wyH8FBBktalHt4sVSBPcKeTD3nKKUjNckTIW1LuB-MWPxj3rxx7uRHDnBywfaJSCb-tNcMC3ZKDVNS3F6hq/w374-h640/cocoa3.jpg" width="374" /></a></div></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.004) 1px 1px 1px;"><span style="color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><b><i><u>Ingredients (makes two servings)</u>:</i></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 cup <i>unsweetened</i> vanilla almond OR cashew milk</span></span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">1/2 cup </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Pumpkin Spice creamer OR <i>zero sugar</i> pumpkin spice creamer</span></span></span></span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/2 cup good-quality white chocolate chips OR <i>Lily's sugar free</i> white chocolate chips </span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 tsp. vanilla bean paste OR pure vanilla extract</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree -- not pumpkin pie filling</span></span></li><li><i style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Optional Garnish: marshmallows and more pumpkin pie spice</span></i></li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"></ul><div><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.004) 1px 1px 1px;"><span style="color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><b><i><u>Directions</u>:</i></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.004) 1px 1px 1px;"><span style="color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><b><i>Step 1:</i></b> Add the almond or cashew milk, <span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">creamer</span></span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span style="display: inline; float: none; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">, and white chocolate chips to a medium non-stick saucepan over Medium heat. Whisk ingredients over heat until the white chocolate chips melt and completely incorporate into the liquid. This should take about 5 minutes. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.004) 1px 1px 1px;"><span style="color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sBDi5MR5sgA/W_Qv5ZQhaFI/AAAAAAAAY0Q/nug2aJtECeosdSHiOPP1BbdPnobdv02kQCEwYBhgL/s1600/pum1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1559" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sBDi5MR5sgA/W_Qv5ZQhaFI/AAAAAAAAY0Q/nug2aJtECeosdSHiOPP1BbdPnobdv02kQCEwYBhgL/s640/pum1.jpg" width="622" /></a><b></b><i></i></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.004) 1px 1px 1px;"><span style="color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><b><i>Step 2:</i></b> Whisk in the pumpkin pie spice and vanilla bean paste/extract. Finally, whisk in the pumpkin puree until it's completely incorporated with the liquid ingredients.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.004) 1px 1px 1px;"><span style="color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.004) 1px 1px 1px;"><span style="color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><b><i></i></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.004) 1px 1px 1px;"><span style="color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xBQvWJKtCnk/W_Qv5_XRhsI/AAAAAAAAY0Q/YhcO6ecApdAsoDMwQgubsRNAKgVs447LQCEwYBhgL/s1600/pum2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1437" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xBQvWJKtCnk/W_Qv5_XRhsI/AAAAAAAAY0Q/YhcO6ecApdAsoDMwQgubsRNAKgVs447LQCEwYBhgL/s640/pum2.jpg" width="574" /></a></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.004) 1px 1px 1px;"><span style="color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lNWiGe8t_pM/W_Qv5sToXaI/AAAAAAAAY0Y/RoRezPDPvss6fCexu6Sthm8W-GHGvSJXgCEwYBhgL/s1600/pum3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1599" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lNWiGe8t_pM/W_Qv5sToXaI/AAAAAAAAY0Y/RoRezPDPvss6fCexu6Sthm8W-GHGvSJXgCEwYBhgL/s640/pum3.jpg" width="638" /></a><b></b><i></i><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.004) 1px 1px 1px;"><span style="color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><b><i>Step 3:</i></b> Pour the hot white chocolate into two mugs -- small clear mason jars are a nice way to show off the beverage's gorgeous light orange color! Just before serving, feel free to top each mug with a large marshmallow...<span style="color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;">and sprinkle a bit more pumpkin spice on top.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.004) 1px 1px 1px;"><span style="color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirUi3Y0nA-OiB13qEJAU-oBmzetp0cjqujd9ZeHTQVKbOwjRl38oPCfy5Tqzsc0LGs7SIR_VNgmZ1iGkN-YVFF7CHuW_gMAvv7qiYLW8TyNJ_dmIs3rRJF1g32QWOeaOFtP7m5AMl4aa0yOewzlRfQKgQ57hfTRoUgY4xfHtpuinrlOCPIG4sZmkR7K9YS/s2297/cocoa4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2297" data-original-width="1836" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirUi3Y0nA-OiB13qEJAU-oBmzetp0cjqujd9ZeHTQVKbOwjRl38oPCfy5Tqzsc0LGs7SIR_VNgmZ1iGkN-YVFF7CHuW_gMAvv7qiYLW8TyNJ_dmIs3rRJF1g32QWOeaOFtP7m5AMl4aa0yOewzlRfQKgQ57hfTRoUgY4xfHtpuinrlOCPIG4sZmkR7K9YS/w512-h640/cocoa4.jpg" width="512" /></a></div></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="display: inline; float: none; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.004) 1px 1px 1px;"><span style="color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;">October might be pumpkin spice latte season...but my Pumpkin Pie Hot White Chocolate is definitely a show stopper too! It's perfect paired with a toasted bagel or English muffin for a light breakfast. It also makes an excellent drink to savor while relaxing on the couch watching TV. No matter when you serve it, this beverage is warm and comforting...and full of classic pumpkin pie flavors!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="display: inline; float: none; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.004) 1px 1px 1px;"><span style="color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-436805154838122612023-09-30T11:53:00.000-05:002023-09-30T11:53:18.311-05:00MOD Pizza: Creating Delicious Custom Pizzas...and Salads!! #WeekendGourmetDinesOut #MODPizza #makeityourown #pizza #salad<p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWYpKrEXKsZdjhPJT2Pc1e1xG3E2bdN4exhoUUqwkextmeVfa4gz0doNCqOPpKn9M6aaX9V8HM-riMVhahuatIHH0vd9g3w9GBiAf7cDmYvFB3vcgr9k6pUDiJ7uSQL4qygnsf5ihUuC68YzaV_RHBrT9lcj77IoOe3WvmCvzCuYK8m-kD0IKIpo9_ScNy/s3871/mod9.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3871" data-original-width="3008" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWYpKrEXKsZdjhPJT2Pc1e1xG3E2bdN4exhoUUqwkextmeVfa4gz0doNCqOPpKn9M6aaX9V8HM-riMVhahuatIHH0vd9g3w9GBiAf7cDmYvFB3vcgr9k6pUDiJ7uSQL4qygnsf5ihUuC68YzaV_RHBrT9lcj77IoOe3WvmCvzCuYK8m-kD0IKIpo9_ScNy/w156-h200/mod9.jpg" width="156" /></a></span></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Weekend Gourmet team recently visited a <a href="https://modpizza.com/">MOD Pizza</a> location here in San Antonio to create a signature individual artisan-style pizza...and a delicious entree salad. If you're not familiar with MOD Pizza, they offer more than 40 creative pizza and salad toppings. Even better? You <i>pick as many toppings as you want for one set price</i>! </span><span style="font-family: georgia;">That means there are endless options to create whatever flavor profile you're craving every time you visit! It's really fun to go through the line and assemble your individual pizza or salad. Whether you prefer traditional toppings...or you crave more over-the-top creative options...you can assemble your personal masterpiece!</span></span><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUro2ISk0Gi3oLTYWmOEOoiOIvRTLPdiRFy3Bpuj7TMyBLHdSA827yEzVpkYyrvE35W4nvlFbkSKQk8ZJuQ9MvFhHPox1nMcYD-9354F18TlKp4oXKg63sAHwlP94yGsUP-rinrUCGpIEwVYX2ALo_Kc7CnFDfArDW3fJrib9jWH1KXbaTjHWS2zxmV6Ds/s3251/mod10.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3251" data-original-width="2609" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUro2ISk0Gi3oLTYWmOEOoiOIvRTLPdiRFy3Bpuj7TMyBLHdSA827yEzVpkYyrvE35W4nvlFbkSKQk8ZJuQ9MvFhHPox1nMcYD-9354F18TlKp4oXKg63sAHwlP94yGsUP-rinrUCGpIEwVYX2ALo_Kc7CnFDfArDW3fJrib9jWH1KXbaTjHWS2zxmV6Ds/w514-h640/mod10.jpg" width="514" /></span></a></div></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Your first step is to pick your crust -- including 6" mini, 11" thin or thick, gluten-friendly, and cauliflower. Then choose from seven different sauces to top your crust. The final step is to top your pizza with cheese(s) and other toppings. The friendly MOD Pizza staff will assemble your pizza in front of you as you make your way down the lineup. </span><div><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYVJKDx_zMN_3qH5gshWaO4XfH7Tk2Mp5F2bahq7vGBhJk7U-nV3GLz2A3cF8GITbTlApfXF919zJeRYrXNCFiljYVDaXoqP8kzI5vVxKNtdhWHsUtLYwTVnJp7u1j5LwNMds5DoVxe5R1EnHCkTUnWBQXfgUdUO6dSBUPOaEhtnax8RHaLEQpU3IEGO31/s4032/mod7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYVJKDx_zMN_3qH5gshWaO4XfH7Tk2Mp5F2bahq7vGBhJk7U-nV3GLz2A3cF8GITbTlApfXF919zJeRYrXNCFiljYVDaXoqP8kzI5vVxKNtdhWHsUtLYwTVnJp7u1j5LwNMds5DoVxe5R1EnHCkTUnWBQXfgUdUO6dSBUPOaEhtnax8RHaLEQpU3IEGO31/w480-h640/mod7.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Weekend Gourmet's</span><span style="font-family: georgia;"> custom pizza started with a thin 11" crust, creamy white sauce, mozzarella, salami, mild sausage, spicy chicken sausage, spinach, artichoke hearts, fresh garlic, and black olives (on half).</span></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVDFNnozX3898OeaRcFMBmKrjaTlViAOS_PyGoO8YjCKTJ52q2eMabOyRMyEyQw6UnYHWgD_GYg554Oc054gORpd58KaROE6Okx7DdgDS-HIgEtNh8gJ5enem1I5BbZfAXFI0Uk1EtxJY5IgZCuNM-Rb_ONHYSYWKWKmuy5ZPZ9cpt_WlD-dvVOk18jflg/s1500/mod1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1170" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVDFNnozX3898OeaRcFMBmKrjaTlViAOS_PyGoO8YjCKTJ52q2eMabOyRMyEyQw6UnYHWgD_GYg554Oc054gORpd58KaROE6Okx7DdgDS-HIgEtNh8gJ5enem1I5BbZfAXFI0Uk1EtxJY5IgZCuNM-Rb_ONHYSYWKWKmuy5ZPZ9cpt_WlD-dvVOk18jflg/w500-h640/mod1.jpg" width="500" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Once your pizza is topped, it heads to a screaming hot 800℉ stone pizza oven ... where it bakes to perfection in 3-4 minutes. Once your pizza creation come out of the oven, it can be drizzled with one of eight finishing sauces. We opted for pesto and spicy sri-rancha cups on the side for dipping instead. </span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpJM2YI-r3o__BXENKYC6oHF8DH-l_bKyUxDYSkH8mJ8NIAXQKNgT5vfZSVADjmvQa6LpjboxmIO6liR-D_3Kt1hP7D1__mFB59iDfj4x1DXdVuViH2Ytg8EZDc94t8C2lNMJgXBaNiJsFVRnwiD4PjLDtSK721wM0v4z1DkDUG3Ih8QvdIcA-uVGMaNjJ/s1170/MOD2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1153" data-original-width="1170" height="630" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpJM2YI-r3o__BXENKYC6oHF8DH-l_bKyUxDYSkH8mJ8NIAXQKNgT5vfZSVADjmvQa6LpjboxmIO6liR-D_3Kt1hP7D1__mFB59iDfj4x1DXdVuViH2Ytg8EZDc94t8C2lNMJgXBaNiJsFVRnwiD4PjLDtSK721wM0v4z1DkDUG3Ih8QvdIcA-uVGMaNjJ/w640-h630/MOD2.jpg" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT5r2oIOWp8MRUc0BbxPhk2zH8VEMkxUktkYrR_CQgk_fYfwiVvUDJmBppN_ej48-P4WxJCy5xNb7vQuL3OZqvUaGuZ83pKPUuXLvkA9GtPCKrYcK6X2E4GGRdndNt_2935jeGJFZgF9UJR0XC8fBVMgbHpsssAY6V-g2jtabB_XGwRbEpnG4zjsOhJr8Q/s1370/mod8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1370" data-original-width="920" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT5r2oIOWp8MRUc0BbxPhk2zH8VEMkxUktkYrR_CQgk_fYfwiVvUDJmBppN_ej48-P4WxJCy5xNb7vQuL3OZqvUaGuZ83pKPUuXLvkA9GtPCKrYcK6X2E4GGRdndNt_2935jeGJFZgF9UJR0XC8fBVMgbHpsssAY6V-g2jtabB_XGwRbEpnG4zjsOhJr8Q/w430-h640/mod8.jpg" width="430" /></a></span></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPtOBZjJFqnEGwlkr_lJxao8x85m2zvSNFxQoZJzBy-3LfuMvEyHAySQpUajsoGbGz8e9Qg-WfWyAUpgUlG6sXKdpbZk5VdUw9pXRwGDyPIBfefbySHdxe_U_ZWYXXZbQkYM49_7oL-vPZuIwNnsP9svRmYEjyZP6HHWfNA4b-Y9cU2VVLZqjn_tTunq2_/s4032/mod5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPtOBZjJFqnEGwlkr_lJxao8x85m2zvSNFxQoZJzBy-3LfuMvEyHAySQpUajsoGbGz8e9Qg-WfWyAUpgUlG6sXKdpbZk5VdUw9pXRwGDyPIBfefbySHdxe_U_ZWYXXZbQkYM49_7oL-vPZuIwNnsP9svRmYEjyZP6HHWfNA4b-Y9cU2VVLZqjn_tTunq2_/w640-h480/mod5.jpg" width="640" /></a>I<span style="text-align: left;"> personally love that MOD also offers a healthy create-your-own salad option! I eat a lot fewer carbs these days, so salads are a staple of my daily eating plan. I was able to craft a delicious healthy salad.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><a name='more'></a></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">My Greek-inspired salad included chopped Romaine, feta, red onion, cucumber, diced tomatoes, Canadian bacon, and diced grilled chicken. I drizzled my salad creation with their deliciously unique Greek Herb & Tahini Dressing. So good!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN7gt5-NtMmhf72Vu0NOPnLQM9lW3AL4NpE-GZBBY4fTk16DBvbfMoskNr9tWxpwlgCwpMwkHhAAAQQuveILvwyCpq8_Zbmi_ro6_rTyaYk7CGiB7j7gbcotdNlRXEXVyv66vdqyqwvC0CjW96hCmX8EKZWWS7znMaNV4uiATph_b7RSFjREuS_o6qe9N_/s1629/mod3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1629" data-original-width="1274" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN7gt5-NtMmhf72Vu0NOPnLQM9lW3AL4NpE-GZBBY4fTk16DBvbfMoskNr9tWxpwlgCwpMwkHhAAAQQuveILvwyCpq8_Zbmi_ro6_rTyaYk7CGiB7j7gbcotdNlRXEXVyv66vdqyqwvC0CjW96hCmX8EKZWWS7znMaNV4uiATph_b7RSFjREuS_o6qe9N_/w500-h640/mod3.jpg" width="500" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG-KPD5sczKSGn1igxK5baZEX8I1lo3QrvMZROpNmG1C7WqDp6KaOIcG-RHLmDn21MHIsWPwr9auG4XMO6sqsaIfZjP02fXaBPP1auaE_TlzKHD-AGLSeFBtck7Sskfm1SEUDCVCy6KC0vYwpbivvzSXE1-8voVHv2yPHNgkvojJ5_-DPYos7YGVxI5POe/s3100/mod6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3023" data-original-width="3100" height="624" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG-KPD5sczKSGn1igxK5baZEX8I1lo3QrvMZROpNmG1C7WqDp6KaOIcG-RHLmDn21MHIsWPwr9auG4XMO6sqsaIfZjP02fXaBPP1auaE_TlzKHD-AGLSeFBtck7Sskfm1SEUDCVCy6KC0vYwpbivvzSXE1-8voVHv2yPHNgkvojJ5_-DPYos7YGVxI5POe/w640-h624/mod6.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div></div><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">It was incredibly easy for us to create a pizza AND a salad...which was a perfect lunch combo for two people. I enjoyed a slice or two of the pizza, and she enjoyed a portion of my salad. The best part? We BOTH left feeling full and happy!</span><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD5RBSxufHBJrH5osTrXzuUY3MeWg_vvCx6eScO88eJtzYNF0z4Mi-GsSpjeIjtSH1Jt6TmrLK33Xgxv0wRX0vKag0AYS6lPC4FIHahem3t7sOz6Ic7UCj9fZYQQyhcJ-8k0_7-K6ilSa7U4NsaX6EIXs0N3uWtepe2IVDRlS4VVLPwyYTsma_nNMXMJ3k/s2826/mod4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2789" data-original-width="2826" height="632" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD5RBSxufHBJrH5osTrXzuUY3MeWg_vvCx6eScO88eJtzYNF0z4Mi-GsSpjeIjtSH1Jt6TmrLK33Xgxv0wRX0vKag0AYS6lPC4FIHahem3t7sOz6Ic7UCj9fZYQQyhcJ-8k0_7-K6ilSa7U4NsaX6EIXs0N3uWtepe2IVDRlS4VVLPwyYTsma_nNMXMJ3k/w640-h632/mod4.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Don't feel like creating a personalized pizza? No problem! MOD offers several curated MOD Classics that feature traditional pizza (and salad) combinations. For example: the Mad Dog is a meaty MOD Classic that features mozzarella, pepperoni, mild sausage, ground beef, and red sauce. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">The perfect sweet ending to your meal is with one of MOD's cream-filled No Name Cakes. They come in their signature chocolate...and seasonal strawberry....flavors. </span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIRnso2APePyp18eLv4DtwImhaXurWHH5t77ygCNfaoNQ0qUh_1AsmcvSyNnIKKYVHuiVSlSCaTbC-egP2cy5OCYFKsoJCG5JRzmwzgyNRYz7s3lq14DgZS6F2PyVjK2hx61GQegPjQd67a5UYaNtCz7ePs0ScIuiMl6WiDNFq-bzMnp7kKwpFpe47IveV/s4032/mod11.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIRnso2APePyp18eLv4DtwImhaXurWHH5t77ygCNfaoNQ0qUh_1AsmcvSyNnIKKYVHuiVSlSCaTbC-egP2cy5OCYFKsoJCG5JRzmwzgyNRYz7s3lq14DgZS6F2PyVjK2hx61GQegPjQd67a5UYaNtCz7ePs0ScIuiMl6WiDNFq-bzMnp7kKwpFpe47IveV/w640-h480/mod11.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">MOD Pizza was founded in Seattle in 2008. There are more than 500 locations across the country. To find a location near you to create YOUR pizza or salad masterpiece, check out their handy online <a href="https://locations.modpizza.com/?q=29.4649856%2C-95.2369152&qp=My%20Location&availability=all&l=en" target="_blank">Location Finder</a> feature. </span></p><p><b><i><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: MOD Pizza hosted The Weekend Gourmet team for a complimentary lunch visit to create our customized pizza and salad creations. All opinions expressed are solely my own.</span></i></b></p></div></div>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-64268753719631408372023-09-22T11:23:00.001-05:002023-09-22T11:23:45.781-05:00Healthy Recipe Revamp...Featuring Cajun Baked Shrimp and Corn Dip #gamedayfood #shrimprecipe #lowfatdip #lowercarb #healthyappetizer<p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qaf57ZB1m9Q/V6aRiZCwRmI/AAAAAAAAVv0/MzzYo8fOVswwcYl7keDY_3L9Bac1gZViQCLcB/s1600/dip3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qaf57ZB1m9Q/V6aRiZCwRmI/AAAAAAAAVv0/MzzYo8fOVswwcYl7keDY_3L9Bac1gZViQCLcB/s640/dip3.jpg" width="640" /></a></p><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">After a long, hot Texas Summer? Football season is here! That means game day food! My lighter Cajun Baked Shrimp and Corn Dip is warm and cheesy...with less fat and calories. Nobody who tastes this dip will guess it's easier on the waistline! </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 26px;">This big-flavor dip is assembled and baked in the same cast iron skillet -- </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; line-height: 26px;">which streamlines your prep, cooking, and cleanup. </span><div><span><a name='more'></a></span><span style="font-family: georgia, times new roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 26px;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Lighter Cajun Baked Shrimp and Corn Dip</span></i></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; line-height: 26px;"><b><i>adapted from Tabasco</i></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jnfg3pwew_g/V6aRjcvysQI/AAAAAAAAVwM/E3SmsKlBnjkBb_XlEoPqWYxvHS6pbm7rwCEw/s1600/dip5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="488" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jnfg3pwew_g/V6aRjcvysQI/AAAAAAAAVwM/E3SmsKlBnjkBb_XlEoPqWYxvHS6pbm7rwCEw/s640/dip5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><u>Ingredients (makes 2.5 cups)</u>:</i></b></span></div><div></div><ul><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">3/4 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">3 green onions, thinly sliced</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1/3 cup finely chopped celery</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">3/4 lb. medium Gulf shrimp (peeled, deveined, and chopped)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1/2 TBS olive oil</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">2 TBS Cajun seasoning</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">8 oz reduced fat cream cheese</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1/2 cup 0% plain Greek yogurt</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1.5 TBS Creole mustard</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">2 tsp. Tabasco</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1 cup 2% shredded Colby-Jack cheese</span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Baked tortilla chips and vegetable crudites for serving</span></li></ul><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><u>Directions</u>:</i></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 1:</i> Preheat oven to 375℉. Heat olive oil in an 8-inch cast iron skillet over Med-High heat. Add corn, all but 1 TBS of the green onions, and celery. Cook 2-3 minutes, until celery starts to soften. Add chopped shrimp and half of the Cajun seasoning. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp is opaque. Remove 1/3 cup of the corn-shrimp mixture and set aside for garnish.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mra2fJazuPY/V6aRipHxWsI/AAAAAAAAVwM/A8FcnUJGP6g6SFcFx449lcNIehhg4MUNwCEw/s1600/dip2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="530" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mra2fJazuPY/V6aRipHxWsI/AAAAAAAAVwM/A8FcnUJGP6g6SFcFx449lcNIehhg4MUNwCEw/s640/dip2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 2: </i>Reduce heat to Medium. Add cream cheese, Greek yogurt, Creole mustard, Tabasco, and the other half of the Cajun seasoning. Cook, stirring every few minutes, until the cream cheese melts and all ingredients are completely combined. Add 1/4 cup of the shredded cheese to the skillet and stir until it melts into the dip. Add the remaining 3/4 cup of cheese and reserved green onion to the top of the dip.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cH8xNJopLAU/V6aRdkbeAbI/AAAAAAAAVwE/WjmvGO9OyqwnKkFotgqCSm82b8u4YJopwCEw/s1600/dip1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cH8xNJopLAU/V6aRdkbeAbI/AAAAAAAAVwE/WjmvGO9OyqwnKkFotgqCSm82b8u4YJopwCEw/s640/dip1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 3: </i>Bake dip until the cheese is melted and the dip is bubbly -- about 10 minutes. Turn oven to Broil and broil the skillet just until the cheese on top is browned. Just before serving, mound the reserved 1/3 cup corn-shrimp mixture in the middle of the skillet. Serve the dip warm with baked tortilla chips and crudites.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V7a1dWxLzAA/V6aRl0fAyvI/AAAAAAAAVwM/BZkSpA0k4AkWtdbyCL4mTIb5CPM1YmrCACEw/s1600/dip6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V7a1dWxLzAA/V6aRl0fAyvI/AAAAAAAAVwM/BZkSpA0k4AkWtdbyCL4mTIb5CPM1YmrCACEw/s640/dip6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">This warm dip is AMAZING! The melted cheese top layer gives way to a creamy, spicy dip that's studded with kernels of sweet corn and chunks of shrimp. The heat level is pretty moderate...so if you prefer your food extra spicy, add more hot sauce to the creamy base before baking.</span></div></div>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-77553767380677307552023-08-07T11:50:00.001-05:002023-08-07T11:50:44.856-05:00Perfect for the Back-to-School Rush: Fruit 'n Chocolate Peanut Butter Granola Bites #healthysnack #peanutbutter #nobaketreat <p> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-egiLuEk4Vq4/Vc9o8sXyEMI/AAAAAAAATvw/fyRHgM1rtcA/s1600/gran4.jpg" style="font-size: 16px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="486" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-egiLuEk4Vq4/Vc9o8sXyEMI/AAAAAAAATvw/fyRHgM1rtcA/s640/gran4.jpg" width="640" /></a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U-L4GOpxf64/XVGZ_ZkjhcI/AAAAAAAAa5I/cNAx9iIjVtMFy2Wzsw2IHiLVqtkDBCOlQCLcBGAs/s1600/bts.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="190" data-original-width="375" height="100" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U-L4GOpxf64/XVGZ_ZkjhcI/AAAAAAAAa5I/cNAx9iIjVtMFy2Wzsw2IHiLVqtkDBCOlQCLcBGAs/w200-h100/bts.png" width="200" /></a></div><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span><span style="background-color: white;">Where has the Sumer Break gone?!?!? It's back-to-school time h<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">ere in Texas this month. That means parents and kids are busier adjusting to getting up earlier in the morning, taking part in after-school activities, then the with dinner and homework routine in the evenings. Recipes that are simple, quick, or can be made ahead are lifesavers. Today, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I'm sharing a simple no-bake snack that kids of all ages love: Fruit 'n Chocolate Peanut Butter Granola Bites.</span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span>These bite-size granola treats come together in less than 30 minutes. Simply whip up a batch on Sunday afternoon, and you're got a tasty lunchbox treat...or afternoon snack...for the coming week! I used dried cranberries here, but feel free to use whatever dried fruit you have on hand to customize them to your family's personal tastes.</span></span></span></div><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia"; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia"; font-size: large;"></span></div><a name='more'></a><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-align: center;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Fruit 'n Chocolate Peanut Butter Granola Bites</i></b></span></div></div><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-align: center;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">adapted from Martha Stewart</span></i></b></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nwi-ZqHX5SQ/Vc9o9HDsCDI/AAAAAAAATv4/g79MZpUJS6E/s1600/gran6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nwi-ZqHX5SQ/Vc9o9HDsCDI/AAAAAAAATv4/g79MZpUJS6E/s640/gran6.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px;"><b style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Ingredients (makes approx. 16 granola bites)</u>:</span></i></b></div></div><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;"><ul><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">2 TBS butter</span></span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/4 cup honey OR sugar-free maple syrup</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;">4 TBS low-sugar<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span> crunchy peanut butter</span></span></span></span></span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 tsp vanilla extract</span></span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 TBS cocoa powder</span></span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 tsp. cinnamon</span></span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 cup quick oats</span></span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 cup crisp rice cereal</span></span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/4 cup dried cranberries [<i>NOTE: can also use raisins or other dried fruit</i>]</span></span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/2 cup milk chocolate chips</span></span></li></ul><div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><u>Directions</u>:</i></b></span></span></div></div><div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 1: </i>Add butter, honey/SF maple syrup, peanut butter, and vanilla to a large non-stick saucepan. Cook over Medium heat -- stirring -- until butter is melted and all ingredients are completely combined.</span></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wsJomYXnJuI/Vc9o7f05G9I/AAAAAAAATvc/BcvYiqWnGB4/s1600/gran1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wsJomYXnJuI/Vc9o7f05G9I/AAAAAAAATvc/BcvYiqWnGB4/s640/gran1.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div><div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 2: </i>Add cocoa powder and cinnamon. Whisk these dry ingredients into the peanut butter mixture. Turn off heat and add the dried cranberries, oats, and rice cereal. Stir with a sturdy spatula until the oats and cereal are evenly coated.</span></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mo_DEMj2VJM/Vc9o7YRKAWI/AAAAAAAATvg/2l1mn7NYb3c/s1600/gran2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="460" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mo_DEMj2VJM/Vc9o7YRKAWI/AAAAAAAATvg/2l1mn7NYb3c/s640/gran2.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div><div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 3:</i> Use a cookie scoop to form the mixture into uniform balls. Make sure to really pack the mixture into the cookie scoop with your hand to ensure the granola bites hold their shape. While the granola bites cool and set up, melt the milk chocolate chips in a small bowl in the microwave. </span></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VNUGAEE_f1c/Vc9o7UIgSpI/AAAAAAAATvY/hc4Eiip4WuE/s1600/gran3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VNUGAEE_f1c/Vc9o7UIgSpI/AAAAAAAATvY/hc4Eiip4WuE/s640/gran3.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div><div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><i>Step 4: </i></b>Place cooled granola bites into mini muffin liners and drizzle with the melted chocolate. Place granola bites in the fridge for about 15 minutes to let the chocolate harden before serving. Store granola bites in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh.</span></span></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-monhAAyMdqg/Vc9o9EjnOiI/AAAAAAAATv0/7k119crDx_0/s1600/gran5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-monhAAyMdqg/Vc9o9EjnOiI/AAAAAAAATv0/7k119crDx_0/s640/gran5.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div><div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">If you're a peanut butter and chocolate lover, you'll love these crunchy-chewy treats! The combination of chocolate, peanut butter, hearty oats, and crispy rice cereal is familiar...and the dried cranberries provide a tart burst of flavor. The honey/sugar free maple syrup lends a subtle sweetness and a bit of chew to each granola bite. </span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">These versatile granola bites are easily customized by changing out the dried fruit and/or nut butter used. A combination of almond butter and dried apricots is also delicious! They're also a perfect on-the-go breakfast when you're rushing out the door...and they're a tasty post-workout snack for us big kids. Bottom line: t</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">hese granola bites are a winner, for sure!</span></span></div></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="font-size: 16px;"></div></div>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-70682577602906490572023-08-01T19:46:00.000-05:002023-08-01T19:46:24.850-05:00The Weekend Gourmet Dines Out...Featuring Tributary at the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter #WGDinesOut #SADining #TributarySA<p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfdODH8kuC_HaluhDtapvXr84rVoqI7nOmwFD8d-TXmvGkKC9L-NiCpR5U1sgo7mInLQg1UPF2nYsss_eF4Q1HSoETjbIXyk585UiEvbSr8KC4DSFQDQzYTqlpxJAIf6CIy-fHM3LKce4CVW4mcfffXDmwkPIjR6nnCx6qtw96wyzsXkOXC4KI0ugmt-Dq/s3274/trib5.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3274" data-original-width="2785" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfdODH8kuC_HaluhDtapvXr84rVoqI7nOmwFD8d-TXmvGkKC9L-NiCpR5U1sgo7mInLQg1UPF2nYsss_eF4Q1HSoETjbIXyk585UiEvbSr8KC4DSFQDQzYTqlpxJAIf6CIy-fHM3LKce4CVW4mcfffXDmwkPIjR6nnCx6qtw96wyzsXkOXC4KI0ugmt-Dq/w170-h200/trib5.jpg" width="170" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span>The Weekend Gourmet Dines Out feature is back! We're reintroducing this popular series with <a href="https://www.tributarysa.com/" target="_blank">Tributary</a>, a farm-to-table restaurant located at the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter. Chef Joseph Martinez focuses on produce and meats sourced from local farmers, keeping in mind Texas seasonality. </span>The Weekend Gourmet team recently visited Tributary to sample items from the creative, wide-ranging menu. From appetizers to desserts, it was a delicious dining experience.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7CjdymmelvM_jtFhCVCfKaCUIdAhlX5tkUve-zhmg1TuVbBNoPd9xcUGBnYxgBC_8vc8ZD2T_vocELdRRgp03pl0oytYXcCXXp8oSDgMA-jdp38pWLffoGy5-V54P6sl9XTGMLI0gksl-oHK0tOiCPL3tECKcMaiZVjQjtax0Ld_7xQP5zItu9VSF5QNZ/s2970/trib4.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2188" data-original-width="2970" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7CjdymmelvM_jtFhCVCfKaCUIdAhlX5tkUve-zhmg1TuVbBNoPd9xcUGBnYxgBC_8vc8ZD2T_vocELdRRgp03pl0oytYXcCXXp8oSDgMA-jdp38pWLffoGy5-V54P6sl9XTGMLI0gksl-oHK0tOiCPL3tECKcMaiZVjQjtax0Ld_7xQP5zItu9VSF5QNZ/w320-h237/trib4.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Tributary offers plenty of seating in its main dining room, as well as in the Marriott Rivercenter's expansive lobby. The lobby seating offers a ton of natural light...and great people watching! We were greeted and quickly seated in the expansive lobby dining area adjacent to the restaurant's well-stocked bar. We started our meal with a duo of craft cocktails and appetizers. The Tributary Tequila O.F. is an updated take on a classic Old Fashioned cocktail. It features Dobel Diamante Cristalino Barrel tequila that's hand-selected by the Tributary team. This tequila is exclusive to the restaurant, so this is definitely a one-of-a-kind cocktail you literally won't find it anywhere else! It's potent, but smooth...with a citrus back note from the twist of orange peel. We also tried the restaurant's signature Tributary Margarita...a beautiful fuchsia cocktail flavored with tangy prickly pear and lime juice. It's festive and delicious...cheers!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5C7ekYUTkmomz9ByOIBdQhWD4CtrY1TZ1s68Un_wnumoihda2irMVzyMVLnKRx_aRvlPY3Vhfs7oaO_h4KzoYFHMcuDDtffrFm8-XB8bfTZLVtAPxJv7JYtq0Y892AU1f3XIs8teCYKkacXGIovuIodYFNp8b7VL_ZNdeeaMeTte6n3QgHsmLEDKaM5kP/s1799/trib9.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1799" data-original-width="1439" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5C7ekYUTkmomz9ByOIBdQhWD4CtrY1TZ1s68Un_wnumoihda2irMVzyMVLnKRx_aRvlPY3Vhfs7oaO_h4KzoYFHMcuDDtffrFm8-XB8bfTZLVtAPxJv7JYtq0Y892AU1f3XIs8teCYKkacXGIovuIodYFNp8b7VL_ZNdeeaMeTte6n3QgHsmLEDKaM5kP/w512-h640/trib9.jpg" width="512" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0-w1HJZT5Kaocg_PRQHAQkfm0IqlSe6zqnTFiRV1IazPAbafUh-q4KPr7V1pHJX4HKCbu7I4oYLx6ZgpyI9ozujtEvMD1NUQuVgtBc8Zn9xLhJRiehrXbAgxGk6nBO11d0tILujxMJPHKkbdI3U7hxWAvUV246Siw7MKoqP0BCA0E4kkP1zKqtwEqLAL7/s976/trib1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="976" data-original-width="928" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0-w1HJZT5Kaocg_PRQHAQkfm0IqlSe6zqnTFiRV1IazPAbafUh-q4KPr7V1pHJX4HKCbu7I4oYLx6ZgpyI9ozujtEvMD1NUQuVgtBc8Zn9xLhJRiehrXbAgxGk6nBO11d0tILujxMJPHKkbdI3U7hxWAvUV246Siw7MKoqP0BCA0E4kkP1zKqtwEqLAL7/w608-h640/trib1.jpg" width="608" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">We paired our cocktails with a duo of appetizers. Up first was the Chips & Dips Trio...which included two housemade salsas and freshly made guacamole. Although not prepared tableside, we both agreed that the supremely fresh guacamole was some of the very best we'd ever eaten. Simple, creamy, and delicious!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFrKEnT_ARlG2yJnFpbav0BJ9vVciVHzeIA35I5yE4_MAvm2njG6Cwr-ElhqOptHky1aob47IGQt-mNaDVQf21B4QWFOtum86pVy8NZTvhn0xN_5l-hOsXuwp_-kZLzJ4wmkTjo0qQDgjfkJ7okuUQ5zvSZnLZUKyoYB1R-SxBQoAsm9oAOLlBuR0fHDJg/s1799/trib8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1799" data-original-width="1439" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFrKEnT_ARlG2yJnFpbav0BJ9vVciVHzeIA35I5yE4_MAvm2njG6Cwr-ElhqOptHky1aob47IGQt-mNaDVQf21B4QWFOtum86pVy8NZTvhn0xN_5l-hOsXuwp_-kZLzJ4wmkTjo0qQDgjfkJ7okuUQ5zvSZnLZUKyoYB1R-SxBQoAsm9oAOLlBuR0fHDJg/w512-h640/trib8.jpg" width="512" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Next from the kitchen was a warm flatbread appetizer with a distinctly Tex-Mex flavor. The Chicken Tinga Flatbread featured spicy Chipotle Braised Chicken, Oaxaca Cheese, Cotija, Pickled Red Onion, and Cilantro. The crust was thin, but not soggy. The toppings were mildly spicy and cheesy...the pickled onions brought a brightly tart flavor to every bite.</span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJGU3X3hX1H7bEAxS4ocJ81ZfKW8RYVicShVrWPaXH1M6GhraRU-qyiEUf8NsOIiuzQamSTkJZAwuDQBBtNVd6c1b1O5ZsbkqMuJOo1Ez5IKHuUoQWn5LXxu3Gq-zfMo5W6RMqPEonFAOAISpmzo6t1H0XRCL4dr1yeUsQzjCDn1iLiOoiAKLo7rCMxR9C/s1799/trib6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1799" data-original-width="1439" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJGU3X3hX1H7bEAxS4ocJ81ZfKW8RYVicShVrWPaXH1M6GhraRU-qyiEUf8NsOIiuzQamSTkJZAwuDQBBtNVd6c1b1O5ZsbkqMuJOo1Ez5IKHuUoQWn5LXxu3Gq-zfMo5W6RMqPEonFAOAISpmzo6t1H0XRCL4dr1yeUsQzjCDn1iLiOoiAKLo7rCMxR9C/w512-h640/trib6.jpg" width="512" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">After enjoying our cocktails and appetizers, it was time for a shared salad course. Tributary's updated Iceberg Wedge features creative sweet tea-infused bacon, creamy mild Point Reyes Blue Cheese, heirloom tomatoes, and herb-infused Buttermilk Ranch. This salad was bursting with fresh flavors...a perfect Summer dish. I could literally eat this salad every day of the week!</span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Fy39w4p2z_VbNGqNlKotYXFYI8Ihsl54M2OZRd0dRyCm1tzXAtZfnUrT8G-wBtWYsOiP7VbIIQKgYTInL8SkGKe3J15HxKCyhKjTnT3NoJDOUifbH99szFYFgQzAALxzTIE_Dkn13a1O_pwH364tIsbv1V1fFrIjm2_G2M6KqzXqCGyJAh4DDaDZCBeH/s1799/trib10.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1799" data-original-width="1439" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Fy39w4p2z_VbNGqNlKotYXFYI8Ihsl54M2OZRd0dRyCm1tzXAtZfnUrT8G-wBtWYsOiP7VbIIQKgYTInL8SkGKe3J15HxKCyhKjTnT3NoJDOUifbH99szFYFgQzAALxzTIE_Dkn13a1O_pwH364tIsbv1V1fFrIjm2_G2M6KqzXqCGyJAh4DDaDZCBeH/w512-h640/trib10.jpg" width="512" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">From there, it was time for two comforting Gulf seafood entrees: Blackened Red Snapper and classic Southern-style Shrimp & Grits!</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"></span></p><a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">The Louisiana-inspired Blackened Red Snapper was paired with seasonal yellow squash and zucchini, Creole sauce, and a sweet-savory cornbread crumble. The spicy fish was cooked perfectly moist, and it paired very nicely with the veggies and spicy tomato-based sauce.</span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCAfEx0k6GOtzz3b7zQyUe3lfoiCBABReRF_3BGknlv3r41yqT6HZFvM7JCD0gBzN2l_FbBwgp9uPeacUcNWJrNrVRDe8q6NKu_w6qgCg35444QODt-1ebq01U1KPmtvQ6rSwtlDo425LuH9NdZMpIvzm9Y6NXJH9xvsS1WOtomED4EHOtp_zEiBGLBSXN/s1799/trib11.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1799" data-original-width="1439" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCAfEx0k6GOtzz3b7zQyUe3lfoiCBABReRF_3BGknlv3r41yqT6HZFvM7JCD0gBzN2l_FbBwgp9uPeacUcNWJrNrVRDe8q6NKu_w6qgCg35444QODt-1ebq01U1KPmtvQ6rSwtlDo425LuH9NdZMpIvzm9Y6NXJH9xvsS1WOtomED4EHOtp_zEiBGLBSXN/w512-h640/trib11.jpg" width="512" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">The Shrimp & Grits featured herb grits...and a sweet corn succotash. The plump Texas Gulf shrimp paired nicely with the creamy grits and sweet corn kernels. The dish was savory and full of flavor thanks to the sweet shrimp and fresh corn, luscious grits, and savory sauce. So good!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV69nyTZ_C6O8Z4lAfqKCCWuaKz2Xdl9S_-GqsyzFzfSccJonE1MLz8X6aPgj8B7drLG_d9RAT0N3sDOqNWOkpiM0EOV3aPzOtjtk2LcJgxrrBqvJDDlYtXgMs055P3PL3mVC4FV1BobG6mIjB0_SRk5I2fqVAngsktUqDtKeLf5hEOkx3SVDRScP7aere/s1799/trib12.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1799" data-original-width="1439" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV69nyTZ_C6O8Z4lAfqKCCWuaKz2Xdl9S_-GqsyzFzfSccJonE1MLz8X6aPgj8B7drLG_d9RAT0N3sDOqNWOkpiM0EOV3aPzOtjtk2LcJgxrrBqvJDDlYtXgMs055P3PL3mVC4FV1BobG6mIjB0_SRk5I2fqVAngsktUqDtKeLf5hEOkx3SVDRScP7aere/w512-h640/trib12.jpg" width="512" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">The final duo of menu items we tried were the grand finale -- dessert! We shared the Bourbon Tres Leche cake and the Chocolate & Coffee plate. Both desserts were beautifully presented and tasted great. The Bourbon Tres Leche featured bourbon sponge cake and dulce de leche. The three milks in the sauce were richly sweet, and the cake was moist -- but not soggy. It was topped with fresh seasonal berries and adorable daisy candy garnish. This was an elegant Summer dessert...not heavy at all.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit1CdhPFq6K2U443FT_8huhFXagWC0ltmu8-CzVelaZJiHtTTOIuCsj1vRf8CTgsKI9GMj62NXnGllw8oOizF_lzwXYjPTMyuaDyRKTgvOVMfKwRCwwOohjiGx3ElHcnPDI6j5_-twNVf2v3bLUPrGWN-wJLjKGJUZcCbp8IGRSAtPFV9sbmnIyy-cA2rB/s1799/trib13.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1799" data-original-width="1439" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit1CdhPFq6K2U443FT_8huhFXagWC0ltmu8-CzVelaZJiHtTTOIuCsj1vRf8CTgsKI9GMj62NXnGllw8oOizF_lzwXYjPTMyuaDyRKTgvOVMfKwRCwwOohjiGx3ElHcnPDI6j5_-twNVf2v3bLUPrGWN-wJLjKGJUZcCbp8IGRSAtPFV9sbmnIyy-cA2rB/w512-h640/trib13.jpg" width="512" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">The Chocolate & Coffee dessert was an artfully composed plate comprised of Mexican Spiced Chocolate Cake, coffee cremeaux, cajeta, and cinnamon meringues. Chocolate and coffee are a perfect pairing, so this dessert was really fun to eat. It offered a ton of textures and flavors: rich flourless chocolate cake, caramel cajeta, creamy coffee mousse, crunchy meringue cookies, and a tart dried apricot compote that perfectly cut through the rest of the plates deeper flavors. Each bite was a little bit different, but every bite was delicious!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMe7Xxu8JBwCfSLbh5SjoifM2YuXXYwrQP6tAT_EEgyoEoIO6CNq_urk3iVjNQxndC5AcfC2yES6n_FwPI3yoLXPpW4ej94z-OpOWcsHGYujk9ebBUEy4Bvy7L28VtCqKBeA0s2bfnpIUGW7eMP5I6Ybyq0gTjfcT2xMgPtYmNpNLJoYXDNuXZCvwep7j7/s1799/trib14.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1799" data-original-width="1439" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMe7Xxu8JBwCfSLbh5SjoifM2YuXXYwrQP6tAT_EEgyoEoIO6CNq_urk3iVjNQxndC5AcfC2yES6n_FwPI3yoLXPpW4ej94z-OpOWcsHGYujk9ebBUEy4Bvy7L28VtCqKBeA0s2bfnpIUGW7eMP5I6Ybyq0gTjfcT2xMgPtYmNpNLJoYXDNuXZCvwep7j7/w512-h640/trib14.jpg" width="512" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span>From start to finish, we thoroughly enjoyed our meal at Tributary. Whether you live in San Antonio like I do...or are planning a vacation visit...Tributary is a great dining option! </span>Tributary is open 7 days per week inside the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter at Rivercenter Mall. Dinner is served from 500-1000 every evening. On weekends, Tributary also offers a lunch menu from noon until dinner time. Parking is conveniently available via the hotel's self parking...and the nearby Commerce Street Garage.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: x-small;">Disclosuer: Tributary San Antonio</span></i></b><b><i><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: x-small;"> provided The Weekend Gourmet team a complimentary dinner tasting to facilitate this article. All opinions shared are solely my own.</span></i></b></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span><p></p>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-20936886321172953952023-07-17T13:21:00.000-05:002023-07-17T13:21:17.792-05:00ABRAMS Dinner Party: The Hog Island Book of Fish & Seafood...Featuring Rock Shrimp Quesadillas with Oaxacan Cheese and Tomatoes #HogIslandBookofFishAndSeafood #shrimp #quesadilla #seafood<p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio-b8LO__H72iFlnIaImsH1lx1-5Z9FH_IXSlOIkvx8MfienRRHFBuPpq0n-0bzp4WRhSyCe1go9-OaIBI-coQ-HDHsqn7ZQeeMhDCQ0EyxLe9zk31_JK406rFWny1Ou6oMjm2m8MOn5yt69Uzom70mlXMGZpfigWQRDUjjB1TKoLFFv4oQ1nv_-Yob_L8/s1800/shrimp2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio-b8LO__H72iFlnIaImsH1lx1-5Z9FH_IXSlOIkvx8MfienRRHFBuPpq0n-0bzp4WRhSyCe1go9-OaIBI-coQ-HDHsqn7ZQeeMhDCQ0EyxLe9zk31_JK406rFWny1Ou6oMjm2m8MOn5yt69Uzom70mlXMGZpfigWQRDUjjB1TKoLFFv4oQ1nv_-Yob_L8/w640-h640/shrimp2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIJh6t3VsPH1tue4baEwE86SEZOBwuLcSxq3joXwR5tn374RrMaNLDmZ_IKDvThEprP2qIsc42BhtP7otZgIizir44WDzxtoLTDule4DfyugcCWHy0bJSMhyT6GTbR51RNMM269xTYGR6S0yhSBx0DTr3BdaMhldAG-1sWLD5ABFXrSYPi1TXve7yCuF73/s504/shrimp1.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="400" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIJh6t3VsPH1tue4baEwE86SEZOBwuLcSxq3joXwR5tn374RrMaNLDmZ_IKDvThEprP2qIsc42BhtP7otZgIizir44WDzxtoLTDule4DfyugcCWHy0bJSMhyT6GTbR51RNMM269xTYGR6S0yhSBx0DTr3BdaMhldAG-1sWLD5ABFXrSYPi1TXve7yCuF73/w159-h200/shrimp1.jpg" width="159" /></a></div>The final installment for this year's ABRAMS Dinner Party blogging group is a food that's near and dear to my Gulf Coast heart: seafood! <i><a href="https://www.abramsbooks.com/product/hog-island-book-of-fish-seafood_9781951836870/" target="_blank">The Hog Island Book of Fish and Seafood</a> </i>offers readers</span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> 250+ r</span><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">ecipes that feature literally any variety of seafood you can imagine. James </span><span style="font-family: georgia;">Beard Award-winning ch</span></span><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">ef author John Ash takes a comprehensive approach to preparing and cooking shellfish, crustaceans, finned fish...and many more. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia;">Ash features recipes from California-based <a href="https://hogislandoysters.com/" target="_blank">Hog Island Oyster Bars</a>, as well as other chefs who embrace their focus on sustainability. Recipes include regional favorites like San Francisco cioppino, Louisiana crawfish étouffée, and New England clam chowder.</span></span><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">I considered literally dozens of recipes to feature here, but ultimately kept coming back to the simple Rock Shrimp Quesadillas with Oaxacan Cheese and Tomatoes. They're ready to eat in less than 30 minutes, and they taste amazing! Whether you're looking for a Summer dinner that doesn't require heating your oven...or looking for a fun food to pair with margaritas for guests...this recipe is a perfect pick.</span></div><div><b><span style="font-size: xx-large; font-style: italic;"><a name='more'></a></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><div style="font-size: xx-large; font-style: italic; text-align: center;">Rock Shrimp Quesadillas with Oaxacan Cheese and Tomatoes</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">from<i> The Hog Island Book of Fish & Seafood</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz5A_nQL2PEXbykX6bnRoM1H5XFTmB41sSXqaOHLT-Phk6WwkTMEoqvIUObxj94ZiE9x32jiWLKptXJ8XZX1PnqLCXx2xwsIZAVtkinONRZMtayUFNwOqm7VJ0zPTmcyOrbgMOX8cTVMt6iVM2UJ3DFd5D0iGOs0mIlajmOR34u6RNs5xITNB3BF9vqft3/s2453/shrimp3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2213" data-original-width="2453" height="578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz5A_nQL2PEXbykX6bnRoM1H5XFTmB41sSXqaOHLT-Phk6WwkTMEoqvIUObxj94ZiE9x32jiWLKptXJ8XZX1PnqLCXx2xwsIZAVtkinONRZMtayUFNwOqm7VJ0zPTmcyOrbgMOX8cTVMt6iVM2UJ3DFd5D0iGOs0mIlajmOR34u6RNs5xITNB3BF9vqft3/w640-h578/shrimp3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></span></div></span></b></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: left;"><i><span><u>Ingredients (Serves 4)</u>:</span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span>Eight 6-inch corn OR flour tortillas [<i>NOTE: I used Mission low-carb flour tortillas</i>]</span></li><li><span>2 tsp olive oil</span></li><li><span>1 cup sliced red OR yellow onion</span></li><li><span>4 tsp thinly slivered garlic</span></li><li><span>2 cups rock shrimp OR coarsely chopped peeled and deveined medium (31-35 count) shrimp</span></li><li><span>Hot pepper sauce to taste</span></li><li><span>1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh cilantro</span></li><li><span>1 1/3 cups seeded, diced plum tomatoes</span></li><li><span>Fine sea salt and freshly ground pepper </span></li><li><span>Fresh lime juice</span></li><li><span>2 cups shredded melting cheese -- Jack, Oaxaca, or low-moisture mozzarella [<i>NOTE: I used Oaxaca cheese</i>]</span></li><li><span>Garnish: guacamole and cilantro sprigs</span></li></ul></div><div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: left;"><i><span><u>Directions</u>:</span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 1: </i>In a dry nonstick skillet, heat tortillas over Medium heat for a few seconds on each side. Transfer warmed tortillas to a plate, and cover with a clean kitchen towel to keep warm. </span>Next, add olive oil, onion, and garlic to skillet. Sautè until softened. Add shrimp, season with hot sauce, and sautè 1 minute more. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit88KmMUM7ltxwPI0JK7POGrYjOMTpP5MB_-YLATbP3ASEzbTTmTk1fWUXO8qWnNxbNlaELDtorp06Ian1N8h1F7AniNMgfVlaUPYEfL2t7iGSrUIEbkZAXoQ5ASJxdzG4bNjruXDZqsiPz8EsuBunzKg9_9C9_MHaXfgamOvacsniuzu3B_lnROgwcvql/s3465/shrimp7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3465" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit88KmMUM7ltxwPI0JK7POGrYjOMTpP5MB_-YLATbP3ASEzbTTmTk1fWUXO8qWnNxbNlaELDtorp06Ian1N8h1F7AniNMgfVlaUPYEfL2t7iGSrUIEbkZAXoQ5ASJxdzG4bNjruXDZqsiPz8EsuBunzKg9_9C9_MHaXfgamOvacsniuzu3B_lnROgwcvql/w558-h640/shrimp7.jpg" width="558" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">After shrimp are pink and cooked, stir in the cilantro and tomato. Season the shrimp mixture to taste with salt, pepper, and lime juice. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDTq72TQM691xLcKe9te6UdJqrDEvjLKsneQ9ejyy2HnEpPXQy3RO4AidenDQXY6RxKs5-NGlQQ8T7TVLND-nNOXmRtExwXjJaoaTdK2D21trAdmqnpOZN-pD3ipX9jq8hjQdA-EXKZ3F9xoYym9mzbkfkZwnfuyDB9wm6ysxT2vG2nk_i09OkZofyCNPR/s3408/shrimp6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3408" data-original-width="2999" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDTq72TQM691xLcKe9te6UdJqrDEvjLKsneQ9ejyy2HnEpPXQy3RO4AidenDQXY6RxKs5-NGlQQ8T7TVLND-nNOXmRtExwXjJaoaTdK2D21trAdmqnpOZN-pD3ipX9jq8hjQdA-EXKZ3F9xoYym9mzbkfkZwnfuyDB9wm6ysxT2vG2nk_i09OkZofyCNPR/w564-h640/shrimp6.jpg" width="564" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 2: </i>Transfer shrimp mixture to a bowl and wipe out the skillet. For each quesadilla, spread one quarter of the cheese and one quarter of the shrimp filling onto one tortilla. Then top with a second tortilla. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXFkwO6Z1_DgFamKeVOkZM6Ri0jt7Xr83nGYhLFd2jEyiNVA1BfyBa0A_afeA74W7uztQ-VP8dt8WpgtSdZAj7ltFUtONYk0CufPoIpJ8vOB7VJLc9bLWCKvgVj8_wIRfTDNerbWHjKAopicM5KZ9ru_MTYX-nwKcNzNk_gXSYWvgpHIqwSbB90qUiJ3zs/s1292/shrimp5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1292" data-original-width="1170" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXFkwO6Z1_DgFamKeVOkZM6Ri0jt7Xr83nGYhLFd2jEyiNVA1BfyBa0A_afeA74W7uztQ-VP8dt8WpgtSdZAj7ltFUtONYk0CufPoIpJ8vOB7VJLc9bLWCKvgVj8_wIRfTDNerbWHjKAopicM5KZ9ru_MTYX-nwKcNzNk_gXSYWvgpHIqwSbB90qUiJ3zs/w580-h640/shrimp5.jpg" width="580" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPlOmFCbHy-2N0DJavMrhgv3DRBwMrUEhWmCrqUWpejsyIB62nBagKGKepao4NeazPgAE_6VVAlP6IholZcIMtibpKdtUO2fPrBEjEjpx185wExBrvLsButpp-ogIrpE28nb3Wcq2-L0KAH_qp76os2Ms-DXtHtUmdJj22-YfJ4fzhkAywBm5g3zqBG-B-/s2765/shrimp4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2505" data-original-width="2765" height="580" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPlOmFCbHy-2N0DJavMrhgv3DRBwMrUEhWmCrqUWpejsyIB62nBagKGKepao4NeazPgAE_6VVAlP6IholZcIMtibpKdtUO2fPrBEjEjpx185wExBrvLsButpp-ogIrpE28nb3Wcq2-L0KAH_qp76os2Ms-DXtHtUmdJj22-YfJ4fzhkAywBm5g3zqBG-B-/w640-h580/shrimp4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 3: </i>Add one assembled quesadilla to the skillet over Medium heat. Cook, carefully turning once, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown -- approx. 3-4 minutes per side. Repeat process for each quesadilla. Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve immediately, topped with your favorite guacamole and cilantro sprigs.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrDs0rL8pAXKkPh6IsJcI9jRYjDULlZX5QFOhAiA9-I-2rXiBR_5EeWFbLS__BY9P2SkPAkuYEcBeOtS7bSUiJcgygV84pIUWBZLQhIb125EL1Y-xjExILH5z6T6Vs-CZY94kzXCxLkadalusKIDCf6Vb5-HCOnLMWAo9XMBfwYISK8vAFjyjWptnuOTSA/s2078/shrimp8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1658" data-original-width="2078" height="510" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrDs0rL8pAXKkPh6IsJcI9jRYjDULlZX5QFOhAiA9-I-2rXiBR_5EeWFbLS__BY9P2SkPAkuYEcBeOtS7bSUiJcgygV84pIUWBZLQhIb125EL1Y-xjExILH5z6T6Vs-CZY94kzXCxLkadalusKIDCf6Vb5-HCOnLMWAo9XMBfwYISK8vAFjyjWptnuOTSA/w640-h510/shrimp8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>These quesadillas are so delicious! Melty cheese and toasted tortillas...and supremely flavorful shrimp filling with aromatic onion, garlic, and cilantro...and a nice amount of tomatoes. Then? The guacamole garnish brings all of these flavors and textures together. If you like your quesadillas spicy, add some chopped jalapenos when assembling.</div></span><div><b><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></b><div><span style="font-size: large;"><em style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: georgia;">The Hog Island Book of Fish & Seafood</em><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia;">is a fabulous resource for preparing and cooking seafood. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia;">This encyclopedic cookbook showcases a variety of cooking methods -- including steaming, roasting, grilling, pan-frying, and curing. Bottom line? </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia;">It's simply a must-have cookbook for serious seafood lovers!</span></span></div><div><p><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia; font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of The Hog Island Book of Fish & Seafood as part of the ABRAMS Dinner Party blogging group. All opinions shared are solely my own.</i></b></span></p></div></div>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-24638513175398930622023-07-14T18:32:00.003-05:002023-07-14T18:32:58.775-05:00First Watch Introduces Seasonal Summer Menu Items -- Including Two New Iced Coffee Creations #firstwatch #icedcoffee #brunchdining #summermenu<p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a href="https://www.firstwatch.com/" target="_blank">First Watch</a> recently unveiled its new <a href="https://www.firstwatch.com/menu/" target="_blank">seasonal Summer menu</a>, and I had a chance to stop by my neighborhood location to try a few of the limited edition menu items. If you've never been to First Watch, it features a </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Daytime Dining concept with a chef-driven menu of breakfast, brunch, and lunch items.</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: georgia;">In addition to seasonal food items, First Watch has added </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia;">two new specialty iced coffee drinks to its menu that are perfect for beating the Summer heat: </span></span></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: large;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.firstwatch.com/menu/mint-mocha-iced-coffee/&source=gmail&ust=1689439731430000&usg=AOvVaw2wQ92BdP-CE3rTSaYgUSf3" href="https://www.firstwatch.com/menu/mint-mocha-iced-coffee/" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: georgia;" target="_blank"><b>Mint Mocha</b></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia;"> features a chocolate drizzle and peppermint coffee. This decadent drink is topped with a thick and sweet cream cold foam, Ghirardelli dark chocolate chips, and a mint garnish.</span></span></li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: large;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.firstwatch.com/menu/honey-caramel-crunch-iced-coffee/&source=gmail&ust=1689439731430000&usg=AOvVaw1yHYb0D_Br6gJo2baJvlGP" href="https://www.firstwatch.com/menu/honey-caramel-crunch-iced-coffee/" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: georgia;" target="_blank"><b>Honey Caramel Crunch</b></a><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia;"> </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia;">features </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia;">a salted caramel drizzle and sweet honey coffee. This iced coffee is also topped with the richly sweet cream cold foam and toffee crumbles.</span></span></li></ul><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6DbFF5T4zf-DSQ1zuIq9P0z0XbmyJ_zKv8VxQun_XFw1ybQnO5H7S0SoeF-fv2ESgfh94J_jiLS89RI2lFcERVUbLaz-rLYwzzbX1Nf6BHizJCK7__mGSgjZrwwbDnMaQfLbTtKIRqRBuso2ySuOeIgxW_REFNQzGxsJBhKqIWSQMuCL8HGcZaIEcIOzw/s1170/fw4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1163" data-original-width="1170" height="636" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6DbFF5T4zf-DSQ1zuIq9P0z0XbmyJ_zKv8VxQun_XFw1ybQnO5H7S0SoeF-fv2ESgfh94J_jiLS89RI2lFcERVUbLaz-rLYwzzbX1Nf6BHizJCK7__mGSgjZrwwbDnMaQfLbTtKIRqRBuso2ySuOeIgxW_REFNQzGxsJBhKqIWSQMuCL8HGcZaIEcIOzw/w640-h636/fw4.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Both of these iced coffee creations are deliciously sweet...and so refreshing! Best of all? </span><span style="font-family: georgia;">Every weekday through August 11th, customers who dine in at any San Antonio First Watch location can enjoy a <i><b>$2 iced coffee </b></i>of their choice – including these two new flavors. That's an amazing deal!</span></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: large;">While you're enjoying your gourmet iced coffee, it's a perfect opportunity to try out some of First Watch's new Summer menu items! We started out with the warm Bacon Cheddar Cornbread, topped with sweet honey butter. If you love cornbread, you will love this sweet-savory version!</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCTFlI8igbDfVib1pjMQFJHTKX_9tdYKbcAhoH_ttTQkgecmgNXjM15XWgRgguoJ5CkdMep-V_w1tp4GpNcqnxtS-BMjPawfE-JC8gw4_wtuKvGWd2QdMeUQKmCPOk-oWdh5O19rK5OPs4yBliJYfnbnQ6ZgYO8tK9waE3zVwNgL6MZddGAwroWIin5LQT/s1799/fw3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1799" data-original-width="1439" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCTFlI8igbDfVib1pjMQFJHTKX_9tdYKbcAhoH_ttTQkgecmgNXjM15XWgRgguoJ5CkdMep-V_w1tp4GpNcqnxtS-BMjPawfE-JC8gw4_wtuKvGWd2QdMeUQKmCPOk-oWdh5O19rK5OPs4yBliJYfnbnQ6ZgYO8tK9waE3zVwNgL6MZddGAwroWIin5LQT/w512-h640/fw3.jpg" width="512" /></span></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia;">Next up, we shared two savory breakfast items. First up was the Tex-Mex inspired Carnitas Breakfast Tostadas. This flavorful dish features </span><span style="font-family: georgia;">hand-pulled pork carnitas, cheddar-jack cheese, black beans, and two eggs -- we chose over easy. Everything is arranged on top of crispy corn tostadas, then topped with white queso, sliced avocado, roasted corn salsa, house-pickled red onions, and cilantro. On the side is fresh fruit sprinkled with spicy Tajin seasoning.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgix_KvDfut9eVqMsw8lAuSsYpTGV0u4frnsS03CAef0YmmTbeLtLPyk-4mby_jH7DKy0qPFhYhRLotGv27_7frRPQ7sGefvM81yEEgjYF5a8XZPU4V4UnD1TBOa7WGao0Hk5Pp94j5dDXI0KZlQQhNGLRx5skpuPEPP_hNBpxFmqYu3brqIYA0jnS5_sPo/s1799/fw1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1799" data-original-width="1439" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgix_KvDfut9eVqMsw8lAuSsYpTGV0u4frnsS03CAef0YmmTbeLtLPyk-4mby_jH7DKy0qPFhYhRLotGv27_7frRPQ7sGefvM81yEEgjYF5a8XZPU4V4UnD1TBOa7WGao0Hk5Pp94j5dDXI0KZlQQhNGLRx5skpuPEPP_hNBpxFmqYu3brqIYA0jnS5_sPo/w512-h640/fw1.jpg" width="512" /></span></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">This dish has a lot of fun flavors...and textures! It's savory, a little spicy, and the crunchy tostada shells add nice texture. We agreed that the tart pickled red onion perfectly brought all of the flavors together. This dish is definitely a must try!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Our second Summer menu item was the Lone Star Breakfast Hash. It has </span><span style="font-family: georgia;">hand-pulled brisket and house-pickled sweet peppers in a crispy potato hash. The hash is then topped with two sunny-side-up eggs, cheddar-jack cheese, smashed avocado, fresh pico de gallo, chipotle aioli, and scallions. It's served with two wheat-corn tortillas to make breakfast tacos.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisnMBEH-9A5CfQLZuifc_BzPTsw088nja1hpf0RJq9rTt095io1XITLymIrgsxFsmli_YEXRozZviS06pQNEUeKVATo7WPKAW6ddXqUQ38-BPYp-P32C6RfBvnR7ae0zXWMcf6eLIsFzY7x34bIuIItBVnvkPWoOPmBqtrm_q71j2Fk8QUrIT6WL22Pyfd/s1800/fw2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1350" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisnMBEH-9A5CfQLZuifc_BzPTsw088nja1hpf0RJq9rTt095io1XITLymIrgsxFsmli_YEXRozZviS06pQNEUeKVATo7WPKAW6ddXqUQ38-BPYp-P32C6RfBvnR7ae0zXWMcf6eLIsFzY7x34bIuIItBVnvkPWoOPmBqtrm_q71j2Fk8QUrIT6WL22Pyfd/w480-h640/fw2.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">These breakfast tacos were so good! The tortillas were soft and warm, and the hash was a perfect combination of savory and spicy. It's a perfect Texas-inspired breakfast or brunch.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">If you prefer your brunch dishes on the sweeter side, the Summer menu also includes a decadent Strawberry Tres Leche French Toast that looks and sounds amazing...mercy! </span><span style="font-family: georgia;">First Watch has locations all across the country. To find your closest location, be sure to check out the handy <a href="https://www.firstwatch.com/locations/" target="_blank">Location Finder</a> -- by city, state, or zip code -- at their website.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b><i>Disclosure: First Watch provided me a gift card to facilitate a visit to try their Summer seasonal menu items. All opinions shared in this post are solely my own. </i></b></span></p>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-80259255950722665932023-06-28T12:00:00.001-05:002023-06-28T12:00:00.138-05:00Gearing Up for July 4th with White Chocolate Cheesecake-Berry Trifles #july4thfood #redwhiteandberries #nocookdessert<p> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sxmY-ToULl4/U08tJ3IfSSI/AAAAAAAAOMw/2DofVwy9rZs/s1600/P1150308.jpg.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sxmY-ToULl4/U08tJ3IfSSI/AAAAAAAAOMw/2DofVwy9rZs/s1600/P1150308.jpg.jpg" width="512" /></a></p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">July 4th is coming up in just a few days...and today I'm sharing a simple, festive no-bake dessert that perfect for hot Summer entertaining! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My White Chocolate Cheesecake-Berry Trifles use cubed angel food cake, because it's lighter in fat and calories -- something I always consider these days. To keep things "red, white & blue," strawberries were a must, along with blackberries...also known as dewberries here in the South. You can definitely use blueberries if you prefer them. The cheesecake filling is made from reduced-fat cream cheese, cashew milk, and a healthy dose of melted white chocolate. Put it all together, and you've got a fabulous holiday dessert. Even better? The individual components can be made up to a day ahead, saving you time in the kitchen so you don't miss any fireworks!</span></span><div><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span><a name='more'></a></span></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">White Chocolate Cheesecake-Berry Trifles</span></i></b></span></div><div style="font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><i>a Weekend Gourmet Original</i></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XI1kWgv02eo/U08tCJNApiI/AAAAAAAAOMk/wuMOEMZAkvA/s1600/P1150304.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XI1kWgv02eo/U08tCJNApiI/AAAAAAAAOMk/wuMOEMZAkvA/s1600/P1150304.jpg" width="614" /></a></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><u>Ingredients (makes 4 mini trifles):</u></i></b></span><br /><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Four individual trifle cups (or four large wine goblets)</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">One angel food cake, prepared according to package directions OR a purchased bakery angel food cake</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Zero sugar aerosol whipped cream</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1 ounce good-quality white chocolate (for garnish)</span></li></ul><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><u>For the berries:</u></i></b></span><br /><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">16-ounce container organic strawberries, chopped</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">8-ounce container blackberries, halved OR blueberries</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">2 TBS. limoncello (lemon liqueur) OR 1 TBS lemon juice</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1 TBS pure vanilla extract</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">2 tbs. granulated sugar</span></li></ul><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><u>For the filling:</u></i></b></span><br /><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">8-ounce tub reduced-fat whipped cream cheese</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1/3 cup unsweetened cashew milk</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1 TBS pure vanilla extract</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">2 ounces good-quality white chocolate, melted</span></li></ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><u>Directions:</u></i></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Step 1: </b>Prepare angel food cake according to package directions and cool completely. Cut the cooled cake OR store-bought cake into bite-sized cubes with a serrated knife. Set aside. Add the strawberries, blackberries/blueberries, vanilla, limoncello/lemon juice, and sugar to a large bowl. Stir well to combine. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes, allowing berries to release their juices.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-clDYo1HI340/U08sz0PpglI/AAAAAAAAOMA/7JE9gidUaqU/s1600/P1150296.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="596" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-clDYo1HI340/U08sz0PpglI/AAAAAAAAOMA/7JE9gidUaqU/s1600/P1150296.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Step 2: </b>Add the whipped cream cheese, cashew milk, vanilla extract, sugar, and melted white chocolate to another large mixing bowl. Whip with a mixer until mixture is fluffy and nearly doubled in volume. Refrigerate filling for at least 30 minutes before assembling the trifles. These first two steps can be completed up to a day in advance, if desired.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v2TsnK8DpjE/U08s2bgRtfI/AAAAAAAAOMM/eUEaeFvS4EQ/s1600/P1150298.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="600" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v2TsnK8DpjE/U08s2bgRtfI/AAAAAAAAOMM/eUEaeFvS4EQ/s1600/P1150298.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Step 3: </b>To assemble the trifles, layer cubes of angel food cake in the bottom of each trifle cup or wine goblet. Top with 1/2 cup of berries and a bit of the flavorful juice. Spoon 1/2 cup of the cheesecake mixture on top of the berries, using an offset spatula to spread evenly. Top with another layer of angel food cake cubes and an additional 1/2 cup of the macerated berries. Grate the reserved 1 ounce of white chocolate on top of each trifle. If desired, add a dollop of zero-sugar aerosol whipped cream on top of each trifle.</span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TJ159t-Yh3Q/U08s0eIqqFI/AAAAAAAAOME/EnAglEA8iCI/s1600/P1150303.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TJ159t-Yh3Q/U08s0eIqqFI/AAAAAAAAOME/EnAglEA8iCI/s1600/P1150303.JPG" width="626" /></a></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l5q8d0a6gMQ/U08s_625NXI/AAAAAAAAOMY/pO3sXul69FQ/s1600/P1150314.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="528" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l5q8d0a6gMQ/U08s_625NXI/AAAAAAAAOMY/pO3sXul69FQ/s1600/P1150314.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">That's it, folks! Layers of angel food cake, white chocolate-infused cheesecake filling, and sweet-tangy berries combine for an ideal July 4th dessert! The filling is creamy and a bit decadent, but it's tempered a bit by the light-as-air angel food cake and fresh berries. This one has lots of eye appeal thanks to the layers and vibrantly hued berries. Make sure to serve these trifles with spoons so everyone can get a bit of all three layers with every bite. </span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">If you prefer to make this dessert a centerpiece of your holiday dessert table, simply use one full-size trifle bowl instead of individual-sized ones. Either way, it's a delicious and cool treat!</span></div>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-45019399434138143342023-06-09T11:58:00.003-05:002023-06-09T11:58:45.732-05:00ABRAMS Dinner Party: Gather -- Casual Cooking from Wine Country Gardens...Featuring Cruditès with Avocado Salsa Verde #GatherCookbook #abramsdinnerparty #farmtotablecooking #avocadosalsaverde #summerfood<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRWAQnHbZSG8iJ68lAg5VgkTMk-nKla_cv-qtA69okKfJb56Cllz5YgyT65UMzemvfm8zgpzR89Ngq6OClTfRtcYSemqO-O4DSqF8lrjDnwnYuXN0A_AznB3rjUgV7k2DMQu-6_gga6xudy4VxpmKOBtUKTOeK7danWbzizudWEdryuJRf0KI1CA13Eg/s1799/salsa1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1799" data-original-width="1439" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRWAQnHbZSG8iJ68lAg5VgkTMk-nKla_cv-qtA69okKfJb56Cllz5YgyT65UMzemvfm8zgpzR89Ngq6OClTfRtcYSemqO-O4DSqF8lrjDnwnYuXN0A_AznB3rjUgV7k2DMQu-6_gga6xudy4VxpmKOBtUKTOeK7danWbzizudWEdryuJRf0KI1CA13Eg/w512-h640/salsa1.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9DhYMFhHzqASymS78ohbtw56kY0RXxSelvJSzoHStW8MCRX30hRrGFBot6ZZgAo4tQDbn2tp_tidZbU8msbyZD1g7Q2mVtsw05IF1RRGnzVCYI1QB98LipFYQ1tGSM01GwL0tIiiHjFYtAIVs1zegBf0VTJYohmXWBPiAG_1JJmYOO6-sc9rGlkXYSA/s400/salsa10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="344" data-original-width="400" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9DhYMFhHzqASymS78ohbtw56kY0RXxSelvJSzoHStW8MCRX30hRrGFBot6ZZgAo4tQDbn2tp_tidZbU8msbyZD1g7Q2mVtsw05IF1RRGnzVCYI1QB98LipFYQ1tGSM01GwL0tIiiHjFYtAIVs1zegBf0VTJYohmXWBPiAG_1JJmYOO6-sc9rGlkXYSA/w200-h172/salsa10.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>As Summer settles in, my meals tend to center around healthy, fresh seasonal produce. That's why today's ABRAMS Dinner Party featured cookbook is especially timely! Janet Fletcher's new cookbook<i> <a href="https://www.abramsbooks.com/product/gather_9781949480269/" target="_blank">Gather -- Casual Cooking from Wine Country Gardens</a> </i>spotlights some of California's most iconic wineries' culinary gardens...and their fresh, wine-friendly dishes.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #78726b; font-family: "Gotham Book"; font-size: 20px;"> </span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">The recipes showcase fresh seasonal produce and are gourmet casual...without being fussy. Garden-to-table cuisine is a great way to focus in on using seasonal fruit and veggies at their peak of freshness. </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I wanted to serve a healthy appetizer for our Memorial Day BBQ meal, so I chose </span><i style="font-family: georgia;">Cruditès with Avocado Salsa Verde</i><span style="font-family: georgia;"> from Alexander Valley in Healdsburg -- located in Sonoma County's Wine Country.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH6T7SSjjg656YVfP9tlrTrsd7PJ0loQWbxhRi6oJ2S3kbZhE5rjNInBihlV7mb_k02fSszlxPXggw4dBLAR716PynwygxcRxN8WR5NGUKRDXmcIy9iCNSUYoiUfB6o3mDoLkwLX4zEHtErVPFY5_bLMP0mfC_4nqOV-eZ6xzd7TppDyGvjd-HFYi4iw/s2048/salsa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH6T7SSjjg656YVfP9tlrTrsd7PJ0loQWbxhRi6oJ2S3kbZhE5rjNInBihlV7mb_k02fSszlxPXggw4dBLAR716PynwygxcRxN8WR5NGUKRDXmcIy9iCNSUYoiUfB6o3mDoLkwLX4zEHtErVPFY5_bLMP0mfC_4nqOV-eZ6xzd7TppDyGvjd-HFYi4iw/w320-h181/salsa.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Picturesque Grounds at Alexander Valley Vineyards</b></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table>The winery has five acres of edible gardens onsite, with much of the produce grown made available at the popular Healdsburg Farmers Market. However, the winery's Wetzel family also uses the garden's bounty to create a range of dishes for winery visitors. The fresh </span><i style="font-family: georgia;">Cruditès with Avocado Salsa Verde </i><span style="font-family: georgia;">is tangy and mildly spicy. This versatile salsa works great as an appetizer...or as a sauce to top grilled meat and seafood. There are several steps to make this salsa, but it's it's not complicated to make at all. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a name='more'></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: georgia; font-size: x-large;"><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Cruditès with Avocado Salsa Verde</span></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">from<i> Gather -- Casual Cooking from Wine Country Gardens</i></span></b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfzg5u-7g_24CGQ3ytrdRizr5iBCkhDyY78mGnclE9D7Gzy4wM4uOcLqPKMW5JS2i9rDLlsrEzAGevZRbqodBAdozNlEf-xiw1mdBWFKezzCVS6V6OmEp7woPJT_fRbRKnvrvSLQp_WbQnqLq4HUSUUTtChocNv_lju7QZ4MxEiCABQRwhGYiGl-cyMA/s4032/salsa3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: georgia; font-weight: bold; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfzg5u-7g_24CGQ3ytrdRizr5iBCkhDyY78mGnclE9D7Gzy4wM4uOcLqPKMW5JS2i9rDLlsrEzAGevZRbqodBAdozNlEf-xiw1mdBWFKezzCVS6V6OmEp7woPJT_fRbRKnvrvSLQp_WbQnqLq4HUSUUTtChocNv_lju7QZ4MxEiCABQRwhGYiGl-cyMA/w640-h480/salsa3.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: 700;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Ingredients (makes approx. 1 1/2 cups)</u>:</span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: 700;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVIlPdJ5eScFZ4-A-LGqWyc_Oydk0PUSGRmasV6lOFyKafpl1dMJluB7tHFZ1i7k1PrmEnyDwAv2mpiHZMIUHA29jS8wccm66A3LoGsIFSmtmIvnNw77uuL5TScyvbLyhgAz-u7G2AVH7FslkFdCBek9ke7OoljwrZKP7rJ13KuUQHCWOrzIWoZrb9_g/s3547/salsa9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2840" data-original-width="3547" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVIlPdJ5eScFZ4-A-LGqWyc_Oydk0PUSGRmasV6lOFyKafpl1dMJluB7tHFZ1i7k1PrmEnyDwAv2mpiHZMIUHA29jS8wccm66A3LoGsIFSmtmIvnNw77uuL5TScyvbLyhgAz-u7G2AVH7FslkFdCBek9ke7OoljwrZKP7rJ13KuUQHCWOrzIWoZrb9_g/w200-h160/salsa9.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: large;">1 1/2 pounds tomatillos, husked and coarsely chopped (about 4 cups)</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">1 Anaheim OR poblano chile, seeded and coarsely chopped</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">1 jalapeño, seeded and coarsely chopped</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">3 whole cloves garlic, peeled</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">1/2 small white onion, sliced</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">Sea salt</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">1/2 large avocado, peeled</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">1 small handful arugula OR baby spinach</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">1/3 cup coarsely chopped fresh cilantro leaves and stems</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">2 TBS fresh lime juice</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">For serving: assorted seasonal veggies, boiled eggs, olives, or tortilla chips</span></li></ul><div><i><span style="font-size: large;">Recommended wine pairing: <a href="https://shop.avvwine.com/2022-Dry-Ros%C3%A9-of-Sangiovese" target="_blank">Alexander Vineyard Dry Rosé of Sangiovese</a></span></i></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><b><i><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Directions</u>:</span></i></b></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 1: </i>Preheat oven to 350℉. Put the tomatillos, Anaheim or Poblano chile, jalapeño, garlic, and onion in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Stir to mix. Bake, stirring halfway through cooking time, for 1 hour. Let cool slightly.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaXmgmKv4hKwIv9ZGmVnYIO__sZjQH24a7rl0CWEtMqTsVzRFFbBAsznGibGQqkliKIcy1pFeNImBcfqYsRZFRxTHQUEFgxJCUP9MO4QQtTKRAiWmDWb8fgNJk6t2NhEuVcLAWrrPJ6dwj321JASgKAvxmLwEHluNjZzsYR1DaqHr5uzWUzclivIYeGw/s3429/salsa8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2696" data-original-width="3429" height="504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaXmgmKv4hKwIv9ZGmVnYIO__sZjQH24a7rl0CWEtMqTsVzRFFbBAsznGibGQqkliKIcy1pFeNImBcfqYsRZFRxTHQUEFgxJCUP9MO4QQtTKRAiWmDWb8fgNJk6t2NhEuVcLAWrrPJ6dwj321JASgKAvxmLwEHluNjZzsYR1DaqHr5uzWUzclivIYeGw/w640-h504/salsa8.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYBlVmhLJzZ1v4bz_oKy0uj9kJr6wTLh6z6q0M7BObguQrDm30uynlF4XY4zHStdty3vX1o71QvzrJR2tmUXnr5tGwhTYrEhwOfM47j86iBImBz4Tj2fXENuJO9HQnJIpHIGVhSE8lMFuU_i4g6z3qKtPi2Hnri1iuKe3XwevJJ2PgN0cTIyxMhT4Rzw/s3424/salsa7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2750" data-original-width="3424" height="514" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYBlVmhLJzZ1v4bz_oKy0uj9kJr6wTLh6z6q0M7BObguQrDm30uynlF4XY4zHStdty3vX1o71QvzrJR2tmUXnr5tGwhTYrEhwOfM47j86iBImBz4Tj2fXENuJO9HQnJIpHIGVhSE8lMFuU_i4g6z3qKtPi2Hnri1iuKe3XwevJJ2PgN0cTIyxMhT4Rzw/w640-h514/salsa7.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 2: </i>Put cooled ingredients into a blender, add 1/2 tsp. sea salt, and blend until smooth. Set aside 1 cup of this blended salsa mixture, and refrigerate the remainder for another use.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtAaaoRn4Fu3mSVsPbOfZoKFlv_faaSYuks_5vrrEQ6TZ4UwAlGvTKOEOMNFNM6fcCgtbO-wXTErUW-uadVn9dwuRl857yauUWL71YsKy3JiTtKcfqklPSG0SMNEBNQZp9VMmBLqgF-uzkv-DuSLOcGsXM6VqXU1z-t8icmXywbw24IFfw-z5dGh_rxQ/s3261/salsa5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3261" data-original-width="2477" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtAaaoRn4Fu3mSVsPbOfZoKFlv_faaSYuks_5vrrEQ6TZ4UwAlGvTKOEOMNFNM6fcCgtbO-wXTErUW-uadVn9dwuRl857yauUWL71YsKy3JiTtKcfqklPSG0SMNEBNQZp9VMmBLqgF-uzkv-DuSLOcGsXM6VqXU1z-t8icmXywbw24IFfw-z5dGh_rxQ/w486-h640/salsa5.jpg" width="486" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEidqPJNN6DCDClXrFQ24vtD6EaRYA24AMaoJLvZM704e4L5wutrFtRzvikwnLljNzd3mT1iMDqTBGhV5YBny6lAji8WAe0uCU0lUEUnipW4I4idX0hk0ggX3JX8qyaNKJwRIGLV4GkqFFsfMzC-pvkFWNHtvwOhqBFbghVfLGCmyfCbG8yYR2XMSSeQ/s2806/salsa6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2806" data-original-width="2713" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEidqPJNN6DCDClXrFQ24vtD6EaRYA24AMaoJLvZM704e4L5wutrFtRzvikwnLljNzd3mT1iMDqTBGhV5YBny6lAji8WAe0uCU0lUEUnipW4I4idX0hk0ggX3JX8qyaNKJwRIGLV4GkqFFsfMzC-pvkFWNHtvwOhqBFbghVfLGCmyfCbG8yYR2XMSSeQ/w618-h640/salsa6.jpg" width="618" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 3: </i>Return the reserved 1 cup of salsa to the blender. Add the avocado, arugula OR spinach, cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, and an additional 3/4 tsp. sea salt. Blend until smooth, adding a splash of water if the sauce needs a bit of thinning -- I added about 1/4 cup of water to my salsa. Taste for salt and lime juice and adjust if necessary. Serve immediately...or refrigerate if you plan to serve later in the day.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT7oSfcVu5labGo8KG9Ydh2Cej-6tXEbliSgLDjnkkegK3YEDNW7WKUXLqrEJNJ7cd-qqOMsKkej2Ef_uEdGicliXZfO-hhtFY7rx0v3ww4MITAGSiEBkP4mK5KvtNfkhpQP3j64h-yObjgHEFbBPoBozBPkzKiP-_NYXnOAU5K4TZ4Nnv1P2kgr37kA/s3575/salsa2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2664" data-original-width="3575" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT7oSfcVu5labGo8KG9Ydh2Cej-6tXEbliSgLDjnkkegK3YEDNW7WKUXLqrEJNJ7cd-qqOMsKkej2Ef_uEdGicliXZfO-hhtFY7rx0v3ww4MITAGSiEBkP4mK5KvtNfkhpQP3j64h-yObjgHEFbBPoBozBPkzKiP-_NYXnOAU5K4TZ4Nnv1P2kgr37kA/w640-h476/salsa2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">This vibrant green salsa is incredibly creamy and delicious...perfect for warm-weather dining! It's extra tangy thanks to the use of tomatillos and lime juice, creamy from the addition of avocado and olive oil, and earthy from the addition of cilantro and fresh greens. We loved this salsa with warm tortilla chips...and lower-carb mini sweet peppers. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">This salsa is so easy to make...and economical...that you might not buy tomatillo salsa from the store again. I can't wait to try more great recipes from <i>Gather </i>in the coming months...there are so many delicious recipes featuring seasonal produce to try!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the featured cookbook </i>Gather<i> as part of ABRAMS Publishing's Dinner Party blogging group. As always, all opinions shared are solely my own.</i></span></b></div><div style="font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"><br /></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"> </span></div><p></p>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-10701755889838150992023-05-27T13:42:00.000-05:002023-05-27T13:42:28.029-05:00ABRAMS Dinner Party Spotlight: The Great American Burger Book...Featuring The Smoked Burger from Houston #TheGreatAmericanBurgerBook #abramsdinnerparty #burgers #smokedmeat #TexasFood #summerfood<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNmIERwPTCsh3KPKcanXAbWl6KNPmb-o1THpxrZjwvkvwij-U08w8EfhRpMIVcKF9zhXGU_Nyad0KfdIdpozWKjLp-_qxnPKlKyQoqb8q1s9GMpvYyDtKZ6nsMC0r_PFCWfkqozicfIn00ggH7k65pVT-lH3IxXrTw2T5K9d6pCUB7aPtOWLTQWAGyYQ/s1799/burg5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1799" data-original-width="1439" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNmIERwPTCsh3KPKcanXAbWl6KNPmb-o1THpxrZjwvkvwij-U08w8EfhRpMIVcKF9zhXGU_Nyad0KfdIdpozWKjLp-_qxnPKlKyQoqb8q1s9GMpvYyDtKZ6nsMC0r_PFCWfkqozicfIn00ggH7k65pVT-lH3IxXrTw2T5K9d6pCUB7aPtOWLTQWAGyYQ/w512-h640/burg5.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFkb3gPldKljk3aUYqF6VUlFFl6nKnVMtz3JrM7bCvb8IPLr7bjGAzGlWao3R1JgMJu3cqxZgZDmeuG0To4ExpUTlyTXJcB4j_Nj7bUJDLlm--NXXRRqL3djbnRqCws1je1sEy2Gp36EAIQJkpkRgWlsplo_x4z1onJeZgKdgS_vs8YBl2J2gjTEfShw/s495/burg6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="495" data-original-width="400" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFkb3gPldKljk3aUYqF6VUlFFl6nKnVMtz3JrM7bCvb8IPLr7bjGAzGlWao3R1JgMJu3cqxZgZDmeuG0To4ExpUTlyTXJcB4j_Nj7bUJDLlm--NXXRRqL3djbnRqCws1je1sEy2Gp36EAIQJkpkRgWlsplo_x4z1onJeZgKdgS_vs8YBl2J2gjTEfShw/w162-h200/burg6.jpg" width="162" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">This year's ABRAMS Dinner Party blogging group posts are quickly winding down as Summer approaches. But? Today's featured </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">ABRAMS Publishing </span><span style="font-family: georgia;">cookbook is perfect to have on hand as burger season heats up! George Motz's encyclopedic</span><i style="font-family: georgia;"> The Great American Burger Book: How to Make Authentic Regional Hamburgers at Home </i><span style="font-family: georgia;">shows readers how to recreate regional burgers at home. This expanded and updated edition features iconic burger flavors and cooking techniques like Minnesota's cheesy Jucy Lucy, Wisconsin's Butter Burger, and California's Classic Patty Melt. There's even a chapter devoted to international burgers! I opted to focus today on a Texas classic: The Smoked Burger from Guy's Market, a butcher shop in Houston. This burger is smoky and simply adorned...the beef and flavorful smoke definitely take center stage. This is definitely the burger you want to add to your Memorial Day grilling menu!</span></span><div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_8bCpwTNUBBq9w_uClw9CBlRExFZVVYc2Oby4_ffrvLdZfSpr10CqvlRwy5gYDmG7Yhdqz0o-ZaLmImU589iB3nQmpXu4IvnmYaYFbPpSjyBNvT_QWTEePUugZrtiojOJOtWKCJ29Vu7NaPXPTqHPWnhVQoEdw9dXNF9kHADiJo2SdeMx2nLgGgd_0g/s3216/burg4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3216" data-original-width="2505" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_8bCpwTNUBBq9w_uClw9CBlRExFZVVYc2Oby4_ffrvLdZfSpr10CqvlRwy5gYDmG7Yhdqz0o-ZaLmImU589iB3nQmpXu4IvnmYaYFbPpSjyBNvT_QWTEePUugZrtiojOJOtWKCJ29Vu7NaPXPTqHPWnhVQoEdw9dXNF9kHADiJo2SdeMx2nLgGgd_0g/w250-h320/burg4.jpg" width="250" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">This burger forgoes traditional burger toppings like mustard, pickles, lettuce, onion, and tomato. The Smoke Burger instead features toppings typically served with smoked or chopped brisket sandwiches here in Texas: tangy BBQ sauce, sliced dill pickle, and onions. I also offered sliced cheddar cheese for those who wanted to add it to the mix. For this recipe, the beef used AND the smoking technique are key to achieving the best flavor. I used 85/15 ground Angus chuck that was smoked with a combination of charcoal and post oak wood. Soft potato buns were a perfect addition to cradle this burger. One note: instead of using the homemade BBQ sauce recommended by Motz, we opted for a favorite bottled sauce to save a bit of time.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></p><a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: georgia;"><div style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">The Smoked Burger</span></div><div style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">from<i> The Great American Burger Book</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFgP5suC6DBPkXvCIqK88tCovt3SQuxEa2uQy9oJpJyOx5KvgGhwM0DxTC7hHEMHfoSCalo9bL-621032rFwTSRziQmWuarvfSRu4Dl80lU0iHmRmH11YbRSQEEWGuYIkz5mEsEkJzLwWZaHJEWi9Ukd60PcO4Uf-0WQescSLX0U12UMrFIZsp7CjdIA/s3675/burg2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3675" data-original-width="3022" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFgP5suC6DBPkXvCIqK88tCovt3SQuxEa2uQy9oJpJyOx5KvgGhwM0DxTC7hHEMHfoSCalo9bL-621032rFwTSRziQmWuarvfSRu4Dl80lU0iHmRmH11YbRSQEEWGuYIkz5mEsEkJzLwWZaHJEWi9Ukd60PcO4Uf-0WQescSLX0U12UMrFIZsp7CjdIA/w526-h640/burg2.jpg" width="526" /></a></div><div style="font-style: italic; text-align: left;"><i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Equipment Needed</u>:</span></b></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: large;">Kettle grill </span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">Hardwood smoking chips -- hickory, cherry, etc. We used post oak</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">Charcoal </span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">Charcoal chimney for igniting charcoal</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">Long metal tongs for gently flipping burgers</span></li></ul></div><div style="font-style: italic; text-align: left;"><i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>For FIVE burgers</u>:</span></b></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: large;">2 lbs. freshly ground chuck (80/20 or 85/15)</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">Salt for seasoning</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">5 soft buns -- we used potato buns</span></li></ul><div><b><i><span style="font-size: large;"><u>For topping</u>:</span></i></b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: large;">Dill pickle chips</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">Sliced Vidalia or Walla Walla sweet yellow onions (can be sauteed, but thinly sliced raw onion is traditional here in Texas</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">BBQ sauce -- homemade OR your favorite bottled brand</span></li></ul><div><b><i><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Directions</u>:</span></i></b></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 1: </i>Divide meat into five 6-ounce patties that are approximately 3/4-inch thick. Refrigerate patties until you're ready to put them on the grill. Prepare smoker in your kettle grill, pushing the hot coals to one side of the grill. Position the grate so you can access the coals -- if necessary -- while the burgers smoke.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 2: </i>When the smoker is hot -- about 225℉ -- salt both sides of the burger patties. Be sure to salt the patties just before you place them inside the smoker. If you salt too soon, Motz says your burgers will stiffen.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUOXj0jPj3FXGYH0A36hxqRPdTav6aHtzKp8pup7ZJ-nmfze4nkiJhFfCPbAeAPQtnIJ32FQhe10RL5OCR31gVEFDtQ_oOwRPgLAoaafQTZwSDeSYl-g6N_Dn0-GLpqjuF_hgl3C8dB_uxniPRwMdCHfjOGCUh55Nd3R9HTQ-h3iHcb5Apt29OJDqnZg/s3681/burg3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3681" data-original-width="2506" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUOXj0jPj3FXGYH0A36hxqRPdTav6aHtzKp8pup7ZJ-nmfze4nkiJhFfCPbAeAPQtnIJ32FQhe10RL5OCR31gVEFDtQ_oOwRPgLAoaafQTZwSDeSYl-g6N_Dn0-GLpqjuF_hgl3C8dB_uxniPRwMdCHfjOGCUh55Nd3R9HTQ-h3iHcb5Apt29OJDqnZg/w436-h640/burg3.jpg" width="436" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Step 3: </i>Place the seasoned burger patties on the side of the grill rack opposite the coals -- but not beyond the center of the grilling surface. Add a handful of damp wood chips to the hot coals, then immediately cover the grill. Close top and bottom vents slightly -- you will use the vents to control the temperature of your grill and keep the smoke inside. Maintain a temp of 225℉ -- if the heat runs hotter, simply close the vents a little more to lower the temp. Try not to open the grill too often as the burger smoke.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Step 4:</i></b> Flip the burgers after they have smoked for approximately 25 minutes. Smoke the burgers for an additional 25-30 minutes. For those who want a cheeseburger, top patties with sliced cheese 5-10 minutes before you remove them from the smoker.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDzBVunZng-i_b_1jMyRS3sq00JQKJLJdb4boDsySi0FWQPKkhJU4X_t4LtYc1fEiUp-_kJnd7KMac2XKPq6GS17usTi7YdUhgkDMVzObjr5Lzgoaq8wjEQbmbHUKvBrJ3_2bYEDkuCptrsn2tmRRsbIfEFoW7zWy7ui6lUkR58JaTE-NEymCKWmAGwg/s1186/burg1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1186" height="574" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDzBVunZng-i_b_1jMyRS3sq00JQKJLJdb4boDsySi0FWQPKkhJU4X_t4LtYc1fEiUp-_kJnd7KMac2XKPq6GS17usTi7YdUhgkDMVzObjr5Lzgoaq8wjEQbmbHUKvBrJ3_2bYEDkuCptrsn2tmRRsbIfEFoW7zWy7ui6lUkR58JaTE-NEymCKWmAGwg/w640-h574/burg1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Place smoked burger patties on warm buns. Top with pickles, sliced onion, and about 2 TBS BBQ sauce. Serve immediately with chips or air-fried french fries on the side.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">These smoky burgers were a huge hit with my family last weekend! The burgers come out juicy and smoky...the tangy pickles and BBQ sauce compliment and enhance the smoky flavor. When the ingredients are minimal and simple, quality counts...so definitely make sure to use the best-quality ingredients you can get your hands on.</span></div><div style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></div><div><b><i>Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of </i>The Great American Burger Book<i> as part of the ABRAMS Dinner Party blogging group. All opinions shared are solely my own.</i></b></div><div style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></div><div style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></div><div style="font-size: x-large;"><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div><div style="font-size: x-large; font-style: italic; font-weight: 700; text-align: left;"><br /></div></div></span><p></p></div>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-6315342448226114722023-05-24T14:02:00.007-05:002023-05-24T14:07:08.552-05:00Wendy's Great Eight for May 2023 #wendysgreateight #bestbites #favoritefood #healthyfoodfavorites<p> <span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">After a hiatus while I overhauled my nutrition...and lost 10o pounds...my monthly Wendy's Great Eight column is back! Going forward, this monthly column will focus on my favorite <i>healthy</i> food and beverages -- along with kitchen gadgets that support my new healthy eating goals. I hope you'll find some healthy ideas that will help you meet your personal health goals too! Let's get started...</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><b style="font-style: italic;"><a href="https://www.likeairsnacks.com/" target="_blank"></a></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><b style="font-style: italic;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglckZAxGH1ZzrlEerZDvGsEA1IVuxuYvhVLObNzCEpgqMVhCe65SkB_Z8bRQHWivjE1KQRNdRMwcadZtWH1DVdKD6-jtVtSEDBP7vjQHwGS01D5n2j8jI3AhtaSZ30tC8Eg_Dhb3pqxkS6-sS0um4o-nAs4D3RFYmNDSK9r-Z7XUh1zT21-EDVCiLOww/s464/puff.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="464" data-original-width="380" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglckZAxGH1ZzrlEerZDvGsEA1IVuxuYvhVLObNzCEpgqMVhCe65SkB_Z8bRQHWivjE1KQRNdRMwcadZtWH1DVdKD6-jtVtSEDBP7vjQHwGS01D5n2j8jI3AhtaSZ30tC8Eg_Dhb3pqxkS6-sS0um4o-nAs4D3RFYmNDSK9r-Z7XUh1zT21-EDVCiLOww/w164-h200/puff.png" width="164" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><b style="font-style: italic;"><a href="https://www.likeairsnacks.com/" target="_blank">(1) Like Air Baked Puffcorn</a>. </b>If you enjoy eating crunchy snacks...but not their excess fat and calories...baked puffcorn is a great snacking alternative! I've really been enjoying Like Air Baked Puffcorn recently. These all natural, gluten-free baked puffs are literally light as air. And? They come in great traditional popcorn flavors like Butter & Salt and American Cheddar. They also have two sweet flavors: maple-flavored Pancake, and Cinnamon Bun. Each generous 3-cup serving of Like Air has just 150 calories, 9 grams fat, and 15-17 carbs. All four flavors are delicious...but I have a bit of a soft spot for the Pancake. Like Air Puffcorn can be found at major retailers, including Sam's Club, Kroger, ShopRite, Fairway, Price Rite, Kings Food Market, and Balducci's. They can also be <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Like-Air-Puffcorn-Multi-Serve-Artificial/dp/B0861RSWF6/ref=sr_1_2?crid=1UD7TIRP9SUIY&keywords=like%2Bair%2Bpuffcorn&qid=1684691039&sprefix=like%2Bair%2Caps%2C121&sr=8-2&th=1" target="_blank">purchased via Amazon</a>.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://shop.barebells.com/" target="_blank"></a></i></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1mzREMB1S1ZTnx8bNi-Ac4jJ3ZtwmB9y9M9sXpJqJMrmCYkOencRf55MKuiNlEfKKO2gWLQm3jnu8hs2vW4X1hleEcR7-vlH7CWBnUwsC0wpRA8dGTwU_Y77rhEYPGWhEIxNx-IDofN4-eVUEd1G1kggBjnOdGqfQrNkviQ2ASzxmE29-fYV_lrFylA/s2800/bare.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2800" data-original-width="2800" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1mzREMB1S1ZTnx8bNi-Ac4jJ3ZtwmB9y9M9sXpJqJMrmCYkOencRf55MKuiNlEfKKO2gWLQm3jnu8hs2vW4X1hleEcR7-vlH7CWBnUwsC0wpRA8dGTwU_Y77rhEYPGWhEIxNx-IDofN4-eVUEd1G1kggBjnOdGqfQrNkviQ2ASzxmE29-fYV_lrFylA/w200-h200/bare.jpg" width="200" /></a></i></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://shop.barebells.com/shop/?msclkid=320a308ad2711b5088c954e17e579a13&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=p-b-us-search-brand-exact&utm_term=barebells&utm_content=%2Fshop%2F" target="_blank">(2) Barebells Protein Bars</a>. </i>My weight loss and maintenance center on eating more protein and fewer carbs. One way I accomplish this goal is to eat protein bars. I'm picky, though! I prefer bars with around 200 calories, along with zero sugar/low carbs, and plenty of satisfying protein. I really enjoy Barebells Protein bars, because they meet these requirements and taste AMAZING! I've tried three flavors so far: Cookies & Cream, Creamy Crisp, and Caramel Cashew. These flavors have 200 calories, 20 grams of protein, and zero added sugar per substantial 1.9-oz bar. Carbs range from 18-20 grams, depending on the flavor. I sometimes cut a Barebell bar in half if I'm running low on available carbs at the end of the day. Barebells can be found at major retailers nationwide...and they can be <a href="https://shop.barebells.com/" target="_blank">purchased direct from their online store</a>.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.skinnymixes.com/collections/all?page=1&rb_product_type=Naturally%20Zero" target="_blank"></a></i></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaAFK6EZBgPj7VUFE8lpjVacm0PUNcT7QbRc2MyT90XXYRiiaL7O00QcLFaoAv8QiwXQJaXwicrQLhqUHBaF4darnGEAOQ7ctqt3ee3khWMAKBoD2r0SKtVcUp3EKeQTtb-kvTxn8vUuSHQR6ZmENu7RQ_wAJtn2jM7UnZap_ghDJAUL3XEKyBxS0djg/s480/skinny.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaAFK6EZBgPj7VUFE8lpjVacm0PUNcT7QbRc2MyT90XXYRiiaL7O00QcLFaoAv8QiwXQJaXwicrQLhqUHBaF4darnGEAOQ7ctqt3ee3khWMAKBoD2r0SKtVcUp3EKeQTtb-kvTxn8vUuSHQR6ZmENu7RQ_wAJtn2jM7UnZap_ghDJAUL3XEKyBxS0djg/w200-h200/skinny.webp" width="200" /></a></i></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.skinnymixes.com/collections/all?page=1&rb_product_type=Naturally%20Zero" target="_blank">(3) Jordan's Skinny Syrups Naturally Sweetened Sugar Free Syrups.</a> </i>I start my day with a protein coffee shake nearly every morning...and I love using Jordan's Skinny Syrups to provide a pop of sugar-free flavor to my creations. I was excited when they introduced a line of naturally sweetened syrups with stevia, monk fruit, and erythritol. Sugar free...without </span><span>artificial sweeteners...is a winner to me! This naturally sweetened line comes in Salted Caramel, Vanilla Bean, Chocolate Mocha, and Cinnamon Dolce. Each 2-tablesoon serving has zero calories and just 6 carbs. The Naturally Sweetened line is currently available for purchase at Target, as well as via the </span><a href="https://www.skinnymixes.com/collections/all?page=1&rb_product_type=Naturally%20Zero" target="_blank">Jordan's Skinny Syrup online shop</a><span>.</span></span><div><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxRaAggV95bE7tvOYoWBOQGEd639_WfpHQCiRo2t0GVfq6szm3MXVe3bvVBM53CdDw5Fv9Rw31vcmCSUejmU9j1aHWmPqoMpUdr5_qzr41mmq4XeL3hV_7hF_SjNLXeKtEnRs22ldHNOPf3MbnhShtl1m6cZu9fQnVlatlw2PJNJROFSmkmTlhO6eV-g/s600/chike.webp" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxRaAggV95bE7tvOYoWBOQGEd639_WfpHQCiRo2t0GVfq6szm3MXVe3bvVBM53CdDw5Fv9Rw31vcmCSUejmU9j1aHWmPqoMpUdr5_qzr41mmq4XeL3hV_7hF_SjNLXeKtEnRs22ldHNOPf3MbnhShtl1m6cZu9fQnVlatlw2PJNJROFSmkmTlhO6eV-g/w200-h200/chike.webp" width="200" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.ilikechike.com/" target="_blank">(4) Chike Coffee Protein</a>. </i>As the weather heats up, I enjoy iced coffee to beat the heat. With Texas-based Chike? I can help meet my daily protein macros too! Chike's high-protein coffee shakes contain two shots of real espresso and whey protein isolate. All natural flavors include Chai Latte, Mocha, Caramel, Vanilla, Original Iced Coffee, Chocolate Caramel, Cinnamon, and Chocolate Peanut Butter. Simply add 10 ounces water or unsweetened almond milk, shake, and pour over ice. Each delicious Chike iced protein coffee has 120 calories, 20 grams of whey protein, 4 carbs, and just 1 gram of sugar. Chike is sweetened with sucralose, the same sweetener used in Splenda. Chike is available at <a href="https://www.ilikechike.com/pages/store-locator" target="_blank">retailers nationwide</a>, and via the <a href="https://www.ilikechike.com/collections/all-products" target="_blank">Chike online store</a>. Especially convenient is their single-serve <a href="https://www.ilikechike.com/products/chike-high-protein-coffee-sampler-pack" target="_blank">Sampler Pack</a> for $14.95 -- which lets you try five popular flavors to find your favorite! My personal favorite is the chocolate Mocha.</span><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"></span></p><a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://one1brands.com/products/?gclid=a7d5061c16a4107216006277a7b52554&gclsrc=3p.ds&msclkid=a7d5061c16a4107216006277a7b52554#one-crunch" target="_blank"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://one1brands.com/products/?gclid=a7d5061c16a4107216006277a7b52554&gclsrc=3p.ds&msclkid=a7d5061c16a4107216006277a7b52554#one-crunch" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBOju9qWvunB7E17uOxDTI2bgI8PXgSRvjk0nvku7OnGjJobeze6UiLseJeD1yPmxscu1p3QGj3fPNSGYpx4lGCRELhu6HyDOCsgRM4RGr0Io0wVqy2_br2u8b9j9fMyg_tzdyo6g4pcQCDW0DluHrkOmH1_ft7UgCL8YHz5V9qn5k3LA3G88wcradbw/s1400/one.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="1400" height="107" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBOju9qWvunB7E17uOxDTI2bgI8PXgSRvjk0nvku7OnGjJobeze6UiLseJeD1yPmxscu1p3QGj3fPNSGYpx4lGCRELhu6HyDOCsgRM4RGr0Io0wVqy2_br2u8b9j9fMyg_tzdyo6g4pcQCDW0DluHrkOmH1_ft7UgCL8YHz5V9qn5k3LA3G88wcradbw/w320-h107/one.webp" width="320" /></a></div><a href="https://one1brands.com/products/#one-crunch" target="_blank">(5) ONE Crunch Protein Bars.</a> </i>I eat quite a few protein bars, because they're convenient, taste great, and are a great way to meet my daily protein goals. I've been enjoying ONE Crunch Protein Bars the past couple of weeks. There are three great flavors -- Cinnamon French Toast, Marshmallow Treat, and Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip. These bars have a chewy/crunchy texture and taste great! Each ONE Crunch has 140-160 calories, 12 grams of protein, and just 1 gram of sugar. I love to eat these tasty bars with a container of zero sugar Greek yogurt for a late-afternoon snack...or a protein-rich bedtime snack.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.popandbottle.com/collections/oat-milk-latte" target="_blank"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.popandbottle.com/collections/oat-milk-latte" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WEfW9JIXOBWFxuL7OOQwNn7T06YYefFxL0TMDWtF0PfyAs5z2H85ax6dEf1_gXDwTfCJkTPCTlFZzZsPby2lT3kWWvixixgRxHIAx3AIZATtS-WW8aWfwHKkY945m2rSi585NssfcWf1GrZT3Eg91rx8IL_rYD_ehl59vuqf4Gfn4S-dTK_kPB0DUQ/s1170/popandbottle.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1170" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WEfW9JIXOBWFxuL7OOQwNn7T06YYefFxL0TMDWtF0PfyAs5z2H85ax6dEf1_gXDwTfCJkTPCTlFZzZsPby2lT3kWWvixixgRxHIAx3AIZATtS-WW8aWfwHKkY945m2rSi585NssfcWf1GrZT3Eg91rx8IL_rYD_ehl59vuqf4Gfn4S-dTK_kPB0DUQ/w320-h182/popandbottle.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WEfW9JIXOBWFxuL7OOQwNn7T06YYefFxL0TMDWtF0PfyAs5z2H85ax6dEf1_gXDwTfCJkTPCTlFZzZsPby2lT3kWWvixixgRxHIAx3AIZATtS-WW8aWfwHKkY945m2rSi585NssfcWf1GrZT3Eg91rx8IL_rYD_ehl59vuqf4Gfn4S-dTK_kPB0DUQ/s1170/popandbottle.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WEfW9JIXOBWFxuL7OOQwNn7T06YYefFxL0TMDWtF0PfyAs5z2H85ax6dEf1_gXDwTfCJkTPCTlFZzZsPby2lT3kWWvixixgRxHIAx3AIZATtS-WW8aWfwHKkY945m2rSi585NssfcWf1GrZT3Eg91rx8IL_rYD_ehl59vuqf4Gfn4S-dTK_kPB0DUQ/s1170/popandbottle.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></div><a href="https://www.popandbottle.com/" target="_blank">(6) Pop & Bottle Oat Milk Latte. </a></i>I love grabbing a cold brew latte for a quick afternoon pick-me-up...but most options are high in fat, sugar, and carbs. But? Pop & Bottle's organic oat milk lattes are a great option if you're a latte lover! Their ready-to-drink coffee is plant based and sweetened naturally with dates. Flavors in the Pop & Bottle oat latte collection include: </span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Classic + Coffee Berry (antioxidant)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Vanilla + Collagen</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Mocha + Adaptogens (ashwagandha + maca)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Caramel + Lion's Mane & Reishi (functional mushrooms)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Matcha Green Tea + Reishi & Maitake (functional mushrooms)</span></li></ul><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">My favorite flavor is the Vanilla + Collagen. It's creamy and lightly sweet...with just 100 calories, 2.5 grams fat, and 16 carbs. Pop & Bottle products can be purchased nationally at popular retailers like Whole Foods, Target, and Walmart; from Amazon; and <a href="https://www.popandbottle.com/collections/all" target="_blank">directly from their website</a>.</span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.daveskillerbread.com/snack-bars" target="_blank"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.daveskillerbread.com/snack-bars" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDVL6D1mh0lZCSyld7YCjU-XGZVAGXOpivWxOj-F6K-nRN87mHWWu1MQNKmbplFWlPCGWRetBvpAV6AevuYB8YCfmya7JnvuuDDiqA5h4LfldUDgCsj5OotPeZb5kQIFUN_1viCniA-fX9mLJGkOR5C5lDU8XpWbxxilng-rx9LhP2a6liOYmpuqzBOQ/s500/dkb.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="328" data-original-width="500" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDVL6D1mh0lZCSyld7YCjU-XGZVAGXOpivWxOj-F6K-nRN87mHWWu1MQNKmbplFWlPCGWRetBvpAV6AevuYB8YCfmya7JnvuuDDiqA5h4LfldUDgCsj5OotPeZb5kQIFUN_1viCniA-fX9mLJGkOR5C5lDU8XpWbxxilng-rx9LhP2a6liOYmpuqzBOQ/w200-h131/dkb.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><a href="https://www.daveskillerbread.com/snack-bars" target="_blank">(7) Dave's Killer Bread Organic Snack Bars</a>. </i>I'm a long-time fan of Dave's Killer Bread's high-fiber whole grain bread...so I was excited to try their new line of organic snack bars. These fiber-rich whole grain bars come in a trio of fun flavors: Cocoa Brownie Blitz, fruity Trail Mix Crumble, and Oat-Ragious Honey Almond (my personal favorite). These healthy and tasty bars contain 200-21o calories and 5-6 grams of fiber. I love to chop these bars up and use them to top zero sugar yogurt...a healthy snack with tons of protein and fiber. To locate these organic snack bars near you, check out the Dave's Killer Bread <a href="https://www.daveskillerbread.com/locator" target="_blank">online Store Locator</a>. They can also be purchased online via Amazon Fresh.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://shop.nocco.com/" target="_blank"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://shop.nocco.com/" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmQKAYg0ehFapGqRSqF5v2UXcaDK6kMVAs75sLZZoXJsqBhXSJyn5If0DPkLpitnIEzfZnXtwwr79EmpQXo6Y9kGJ15wvComJg_tQPp8NbJZELYrEEOecfbZKh-x_m-vDP7RSDo9l8eN7rdnUp-tsNoyeqLPhVu5PI2mqFTBD6U8gRfwk2TUGUQX21ew/s750/nocco.webp" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmQKAYg0ehFapGqRSqF5v2UXcaDK6kMVAs75sLZZoXJsqBhXSJyn5If0DPkLpitnIEzfZnXtwwr79EmpQXo6Y9kGJ15wvComJg_tQPp8NbJZELYrEEOecfbZKh-x_m-vDP7RSDo9l8eN7rdnUp-tsNoyeqLPhVu5PI2mqFTBD6U8gRfwk2TUGUQX21ew/w320-h320/nocco.webp" width="320" /></a></div><a href="https://shop.nocco.com/" target="_blank">(8) NOCCO Performance Energy Drink</a>. </i>These days, I like to drink beverages that keep me hydrated...and provide additional health benefits. NOCCO -- No Carb Company -- carbonated energy beverages are a great option with zero sugar and carbs! Fizzy 10-calorie NOCCO contains 180 mg caffeine and Vitamins B6/B12. What makes NOCCO unique is its 4:1:1 branch chain amino acids (BCAAs) -- an essential amino acid involved in the body's production of protein. NOCCO comes in seven fruit-forward flavors. I've tried three: Miami Strawberry, Caribbean Pineapple, and Tropical. They're fizzy and super refreshing -- perfect for an energy boost after a workout...or to power through an active day. My Texas readers can find NOCCO at their H-E-B grocery store. NOCCO can also be <a href="https://shop.nocco.com/shop/" target="_blank">purchased online</a> for shipment from their website.</span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Disclosure: The companies featured in this month's Wendy's Great Eight column provided me product samples to facilitate inclusion..and to help ensure my opinions were based on personal experience. All opinions shared are solely my own.</i></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-59299264632328010822023-05-15T13:48:00.004-05:002023-05-18T13:28:28.890-05:00ABRAMS Dinner Party Spotlight: Asada Cookbook...Featuring A Better Pico and Blended Guacamole #AsadaCookbook #abramsdinnerparty #guacamole #picodegallo #makeitfresh #mexicanfood<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg98AX-U9ow53onlwARKyRkxo1NOrGZsYlCAl-1KHkOa5mx5otk0Vs4fQPp_6zSBvkRpj1_oLMcqsRdmCLG0BC9IuONtbYiEYc9MnEwVA1UXzjLCJZahwCbXtjAtH2vKOFbakRkKC9UETSwbWpv8J7uaCJj6FfaNaKr0HwJ59ziERIGOJU9Ka-kW61PRg/s1800/as1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg98AX-U9ow53onlwARKyRkxo1NOrGZsYlCAl-1KHkOa5mx5otk0Vs4fQPp_6zSBvkRpj1_oLMcqsRdmCLG0BC9IuONtbYiEYc9MnEwVA1UXzjLCJZahwCbXtjAtH2vKOFbakRkKC9UETSwbWpv8J7uaCJj6FfaNaKr0HwJ59ziERIGOJU9Ka-kW61PRg/w512-h640/as1.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz6dqilvKo626x5hfk5PCeumuJXTB1mnCGb7IwbK39_8VdkqkgLJG0P8gpS79ASKupJovZ9vKE03wVJ2CFm5ffMtRfntINd99oxuoAtJMh4TzJC-T_mP-SAv7T2ucujTcdFeLK0h0AJPj53HsrtO8yphyvTAyQaf-GtD8Dqq7KRuw6LSjulteQVow9_Q/s498/as11.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="498" data-original-width="400" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz6dqilvKo626x5hfk5PCeumuJXTB1mnCGb7IwbK39_8VdkqkgLJG0P8gpS79ASKupJovZ9vKE03wVJ2CFm5ffMtRfntINd99oxuoAtJMh4TzJC-T_mP-SAv7T2ucujTcdFeLK0h0AJPj53HsrtO8yphyvTAyQaf-GtD8Dqq7KRuw6LSjulteQVow9_Q/w161-h200/as11.jpg" width="161" /></a></div>It's time to feature another great new cookbook as part of ABRAMS Publishing's #abramsdinnerparty blogging group. Today, I'm featuring a cookbook that's perfect for your Summer entertaining plans! Bricia Lopez and Javier Cabral's <i><a href="https://www.abramsbooks.com/product/asada_9781419762888/" target="_blank">Asada: The Art of Mexican-Style Grilling</a></i> features foods commonly served at an asada. Throughout </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">Southern California, an asada is a gathering of family and friends, great music, cold beverages -- and a healthy side of fun and community. The party centers around smoky grilled meat with flavors and spices traditional to Mexico. <i>Asada</i>'s 100 recipes are d</span></span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;">ivided into eight key elements served at an asada: botanas (appetizers), carnes (meats), mariscos (seafood), side dishes and vegetables, salsas, aguas frescas, cocktails, and dessert. </span></span><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">See my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CsZPOwsOP3F/" target="_blank">Instagram account (weekendgourmet) to get their recipe for marinated, grilled Carne Asada Classica</a>. I opted to focus here on a pair of accompaniments: tangy-spicy Blended Guacamole and A Better Pico. Both are simple to make and taste incredibly fresh! If you've never made homemade pico de gallo, THIS is definitely the recipe you want to try. </span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a name='more'></a><span style="background-color: white; font-size: xx-large;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>A Better Pico and Blended Guacamole</i></b></div></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>from<i> Asada: The Art of Mexican-Style Grilling</i></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyV3wva9DNSMLvkokcExtOWp7LkoRSZ-YZYR8N_yofnmyA4wl3nCP1udgS97MbK03T8sDAqGN1TonK6UI54g-PEW-YA20DVP1DzqdZKUKYL7jjrK3FPGYrQjccu9_8PWEcWyyi0jM-gTgZd90z0pq5VADYaKydN4r4bgg-2jb84mlip7ZQpQkdPtB7-w/s3446/as4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2719" data-original-width="3446" height="504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyV3wva9DNSMLvkokcExtOWp7LkoRSZ-YZYR8N_yofnmyA4wl3nCP1udgS97MbK03T8sDAqGN1TonK6UI54g-PEW-YA20DVP1DzqdZKUKYL7jjrK3FPGYrQjccu9_8PWEcWyyi0jM-gTgZd90z0pq5VADYaKydN4r4bgg-2jb84mlip7ZQpQkdPtB7-w/w640-h504/as4.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><u>(1) </u><u>A Better Pico</u></span></div><div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi10a6tqG6s16wCCFdZ0dQAAcEwZIytRTeEW7l9h2N6FkNnuW_AwmG0XQMevEwjZvE7uIq9Sl-1IqPVpHsr1ZMkfEjRFin14EZQe3xTqBqrebwLE7qWNWNNNIxmA5cAWKus6oElqfnGweuB6nKoMDlE27E9IRS7JxLItd6t0iiyQ1G7K7obZiIYDyYweA/s3808/as3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2942" data-original-width="3808" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi10a6tqG6s16wCCFdZ0dQAAcEwZIytRTeEW7l9h2N6FkNnuW_AwmG0XQMevEwjZvE7uIq9Sl-1IqPVpHsr1ZMkfEjRFin14EZQe3xTqBqrebwLE7qWNWNNNIxmA5cAWKus6oElqfnGweuB6nKoMDlE27E9IRS7JxLItd6t0iiyQ1G7K7obZiIYDyYweA/w640-h494/as3.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div></div><div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients (makes 2 cups):</span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: large;">4 medium Roma tomatoes (8.5 oz)</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">1 clove garlic, peeled</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">1/4 cup minced white onion</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">3 TBS finely chopped fresh cilantro</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">3 jalapenos, stemmed and finely chopped [<i>NOTE: If you're like me and prefer a milder spice level, use ONE small jalapeno with the seeds and membranes removed</i>.]</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">1/4 tsp. dried Mexican oregano</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">1/4 cup fresh lime juice</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">2 tsp. sea salt</span></li></ul><div><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Directions:</span></i></b></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Step 1:</i> </b>Using a cheese grater, grate tomatoes one a time over a bowl...preserving all juices. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwmUH4ovd7n84ngOBvUCiH06KnTW7LHMjFohOTschNAqxFoZui42_CCfh3V_vYGrvxEgj_5t7QZ84IF6YBxGfurDsIgaHylx3CzoAbhFJv52KYRB97ToyXz5gfg_OYWDieKUuCkvKpBOO9UXGwa0h-yYjaUxpglvXv8cY8grIZUAI8-zF2vNieT1tA9A/s3457/as10.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3457" data-original-width="2903" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwmUH4ovd7n84ngOBvUCiH06KnTW7LHMjFohOTschNAqxFoZui42_CCfh3V_vYGrvxEgj_5t7QZ84IF6YBxGfurDsIgaHylx3CzoAbhFJv52KYRB97ToyXz5gfg_OYWDieKUuCkvKpBOO9UXGwa0h-yYjaUxpglvXv8cY8grIZUAI8-zF2vNieT1tA9A/w538-h640/as10.jpg" width="538" /></span></a></div><div><i><span style="font-size: large;">Personal note: be vert careful and go slow! I got a nasty cut on my knuckle via the grater when a tomato slipped as I grated it.</span></i></div><div><b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Step 2:</i> </b>In a skillet over Medium heat, toast the garlic clove until the edges are lightly charged. Finely mince the softened garlic clove.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK0lG3CtDFF95RlDYR8hGa5hf3Pa8EeWJO-mQ33TcchKvlDvAHKCeKr3AXgKNtoBh7_ja5uhKPOuEqwXQ6kT9iWdy8Pyapqc8XWPs1f8xm0h83STYH5rs_F--tYCPJlhbGixcgAROhVfnoGCHlyd4tawkpuCgFN1ld3X2CHdi3PRUfgPlxoclZsyq58w/s2821/as9.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2189" data-original-width="2821" height="496" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK0lG3CtDFF95RlDYR8hGa5hf3Pa8EeWJO-mQ33TcchKvlDvAHKCeKr3AXgKNtoBh7_ja5uhKPOuEqwXQ6kT9iWdy8Pyapqc8XWPs1f8xm0h83STYH5rs_F--tYCPJlhbGixcgAROhVfnoGCHlyd4tawkpuCgFN1ld3X2CHdi3PRUfgPlxoclZsyq58w/w640-h496/as9.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">In a bowl, combine garlic with onion, cilantro, jalapeno, oregano, lime juice, and salt. Serve immediately. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj80lXTkCHOsETm_5xP_zsDKkmwaWT0QmkPpVVBVHA9tB1YQqLs9nmELvn3xpQnAAhbGtA4trvKDMxqhYDL8XWTWya3pZwnLg6LVeUS_b9qBged39Ohu2ooO7yedPvM4KFuds4zqCWqe3ktZ9a3c6BhjQGvZGruL-AjFNkOMc6GiYZoFJgkIqEhpp7jgg/s3339/as8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3339" data-original-width="2909" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj80lXTkCHOsETm_5xP_zsDKkmwaWT0QmkPpVVBVHA9tB1YQqLs9nmELvn3xpQnAAhbGtA4trvKDMxqhYDL8XWTWya3pZwnLg6LVeUS_b9qBged39Ohu2ooO7yedPvM4KFuds4zqCWqe3ktZ9a3c6BhjQGvZGruL-AjFNkOMc6GiYZoFJgkIqEhpp7jgg/w558-h640/as8.jpg" width="558" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">I stored my pico in the fridge while I cooked the rest of my meal. Before serving, I drained off the excess fluid that accumulated in the bowl before spooning into my serving bowl.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><b><u><span style="font-size: large;">(2) Blended Guacamole</span></u></b></div><div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhaRICqq8DYz6E2PwFKyNSl6NdwRFKZ9sHOiY48jPoVUK8hbMd6HJxkptPM5yaGW_OPSSJdMQ4pNuOd-RbOmZzYYht1feN59kwGNV7xv_naQXSdX0aUTwP0K_X10h9h_D4hIFbFqQOELmtfqqXSvcKdo1AQ-mLfasP5iBRsZAvI1s96GHYjIG6KWkHkA/s3794/as2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2846" data-original-width="3794" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhaRICqq8DYz6E2PwFKyNSl6NdwRFKZ9sHOiY48jPoVUK8hbMd6HJxkptPM5yaGW_OPSSJdMQ4pNuOd-RbOmZzYYht1feN59kwGNV7xv_naQXSdX0aUTwP0K_X10h9h_D4hIFbFqQOELmtfqqXSvcKdo1AQ-mLfasP5iBRsZAvI1s96GHYjIG6KWkHkA/w640-h480/as2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><i>Ingredients (makes 2 cups):</i></span></b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: large;">6 TBS fresh lime juice</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">1 tsp. sea salt</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">1 cup fresh cilantro</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">1 serrano chile, stem and seeds removed</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">1/4 tsp. dried Mexican oregano</span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;">3 large avocados, pitted and peeled</span></li></ul><div><i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Directions:</span></b></i></div></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Step 1: </b>Put the lime juice, salt, cilantro, chile, and oregano in a blender and blend until smooth. Lopez says its ok to add a bit of water if needed to help everything blend smoothly.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiuKwbVrnefkFYZ8DlDP-WzqNlPYbGHeFBBtd_A0wZTRNuJAYljGVBLrz4bmOxL7YZ7n3ZDoh5ziTd2qldGATngzA2ISTBsNWTPaWz3Y3cvTFqPjGk2EYj6OtBBpfulqnITWCsxHNS8qQbALx7NV6lpl52Txo-kW2ul5C9vypDEmlJ2yx1xiuUXYowGw/s2947/as7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2947" data-original-width="2074" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiuKwbVrnefkFYZ8DlDP-WzqNlPYbGHeFBBtd_A0wZTRNuJAYljGVBLrz4bmOxL7YZ7n3ZDoh5ziTd2qldGATngzA2ISTBsNWTPaWz3Y3cvTFqPjGk2EYj6OtBBpfulqnITWCsxHNS8qQbALx7NV6lpl52Txo-kW2ul5C9vypDEmlJ2yx1xiuUXYowGw/w450-h640/as7.jpg" width="450" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Step 2: </b>In a large mixing bowl, mash the avocados and pour the lime juice mixture over the top. Mix everything until well combined into a smooth guacamole. Serve immediately with tortilla chips.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHcsCRTwn1BP0Um_13i48wugJDFTW5GeVamiG4h8CL21tELyZB-CtuYy7V0UsBHpud8Y0ovtN5j85GL4ZQq-RzSS7OJlSRTrYXqOBluK1HLkjLghkYCz6j4lCt5B1WDgevt8I68anvE6YTC3TTPa9zwUSXYOB7X61R-F2hb3O4Uw9KVjlXGDBiXvsYrg/s2989/as6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2747" data-original-width="2989" height="588" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHcsCRTwn1BP0Um_13i48wugJDFTW5GeVamiG4h8CL21tELyZB-CtuYy7V0UsBHpud8Y0ovtN5j85GL4ZQq-RzSS7OJlSRTrYXqOBluK1HLkjLghkYCz6j4lCt5B1WDgevt8I68anvE6YTC3TTPa9zwUSXYOB7X61R-F2hb3O4Uw9KVjlXGDBiXvsYrg/w640-h588/as6.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifcOlx1XG_fyRUVWAJwLe8wf7WSKl_1VBQXx7fLNddWT6uyC0ICIl0fsZBttsEAlJYQodbGT5eRvlB29q1Zo_RRAGzZ5Ucvy4cDOXJViu-JpSirCHDhurXlewukHHWwXZQ8gYAy20h2DGbBNtzwaXI2D7KScyVGiZnveqZTKEqkhQOChj01mLdD1bedg/s3553/as5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3553" data-original-width="3022" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifcOlx1XG_fyRUVWAJwLe8wf7WSKl_1VBQXx7fLNddWT6uyC0ICIl0fsZBttsEAlJYQodbGT5eRvlB29q1Zo_RRAGzZ5Ucvy4cDOXJViu-JpSirCHDhurXlewukHHWwXZQ8gYAy20h2DGbBNtzwaXI2D7KScyVGiZnveqZTKEqkhQOChj01mLdD1bedg/w544-h640/as5.jpg" width="544" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">To serve, spoon the pico and guacamole into colorful serving bowls...and place on top of a platter of tortilla chips. This is a perfect pre-meal appetizer combo...and both are great spooned on top of tacos.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwmoGSoCvPLNujbGVpahAcwt_FoMl_0L0lzrqv87Om9_1sc3W9SUI58eVECn3rls3kiZAZIk7y9mKj9NrHh6BYRvTJeUmVdqEDiyXIKS5gejTMm83OeEGjAIlkP7zLgqTVdhmlqdp9mZi9TooA0nTXFV-7VCzKEK6ATjatOEiEPAcymxtP27DCOo683g/s2314/as12.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1387" data-original-width="2314" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwmoGSoCvPLNujbGVpahAcwt_FoMl_0L0lzrqv87Om9_1sc3W9SUI58eVECn3rls3kiZAZIk7y9mKj9NrHh6BYRvTJeUmVdqEDiyXIKS5gejTMm83OeEGjAIlkP7zLgqTVdhmlqdp9mZi9TooA0nTXFV-7VCzKEK6ATjatOEiEPAcymxtP27DCOo683g/w640-h384/as12.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">This pico and guacamole are deliciously fresh...and a bit different than typical recipes for these classic accompaniments. Grating the tomatoes for the pico yields a topper/dipper that is thick and spoonable...and not watery. The guacamole is thinner than typical chunky versions...and features a tangy-spicy flavor profile. Both are perfect as taco toppers...or eaten with sturdy tortilla chips. <br /></span><div style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></div><div><b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of </i>Asada<i> cookbook </i><i>as part of the ABRAMS Publishing #abramsdinnerparty blogging group. All opinions shared in this article are solely my own.</i></span></b></div><div style="font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></div></div></span></span></div>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6438834463067697623.post-34141092413106947812023-05-08T11:36:00.000-05:002023-05-08T11:36:50.186-05:00Weekend Gourmet Flashback: Blueberry Muffin Smoothie #breakfastinaglass #smoothies #breakfastonthego #healthyanddelicious<p> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IAqQ-J48CZQ/XiM7C-4zIgI/AAAAAAAAbqk/n_NEfNOe_0QXH_rmj0Qg6sHUdTzmXT29QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/sm2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1028" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IAqQ-J48CZQ/XiM7C-4zIgI/AAAAAAAAbqk/n_NEfNOe_0QXH_rmj0Qg6sHUdTzmXT29QCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/sm2.jpg" width="410" /></a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Protein shakes and smoothies have played a major role in my 100-pound post-stroke weight loss. I start nearly every morning with a protein coffee shake...and I've recently started including fruit-based smoothies. I love smoothies, because they make it easy to meet my daily allotment of healthy fruit and vegetables! I keep my kitchen stocked with frozen fruit, unsweetened nut milk, fat free Greek yogurt, and healthy add-ins like chia seeds. Then, I can whip up a breakfast OR afternoon smoothie in less than 5 minutes. This Blueberry Muffin Smoothie features frozen fruit, protein-packed Greek yogurt...and an extra fiber boost from the addition of oatmeal. The end result is creamy and delicious...without being overly sweet. I just love it!</span><div><span style="font-family: georgia, times new roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"><a name='more'></a><div style="text-align: center;"> <b><b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Blueberry Muffin Smoothie</span></i></b></b></div></span><div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">from Smoothie Project</span></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XucQokII0LE/XiM7Cf-uK3I/AAAAAAAAbq0/5-COEra1PnwNULrlIAhptPuKd1qeiAy-QCEwYBhgL/s1600/sm3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1381" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XucQokII0LE/XiM7Cf-uK3I/AAAAAAAAbq0/5-COEra1PnwNULrlIAhptPuKd1qeiAy-QCEwYBhgL/s640/sm3.jpg" width="550" /></a></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><u>Ingredients (makes 1 smoothie)</u>:</i></b></span></span></div><div></div><ul><li><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1/2 cup frozen blueberries</span></span></li><li><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1/2 fresh or frozen banana -- I keep sliced frozen bananas in a storage bag in my freezer at all times</span></span></li><li><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1/2 cup fat-free Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)</span></span></li><li><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1/4 cup old-fashioned oats</span></span></li><li><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1/4 tsp. lemon zest</span></span></li><li><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1/2 cup unsweetened almond or cashew milk</span></span></li></ul><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i><b><u>Directions</u>: </b></i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Step 1: </b>Add the blueberries, banana, Greek yogurt, oats, lemon zest, and nut milk to your blender container. </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">[</span><i style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">NOTE: I personally find the smoothie blends completely by adding the fruit first and layering the other ingredients on top.</i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">]</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-atBUuwHRUF8/XiM7DyeGxqI/AAAAAAAAbq4/TcI78wk3p3YTjpo7PZQLaet2PkXp0NONgCEwYBhgL/s1600/sm5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1091" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-atBUuwHRUF8/XiM7DyeGxqI/AAAAAAAAbq4/TcI78wk3p3YTjpo7PZQLaet2PkXp0NONgCEwYBhgL/s640/sm5.jpg" width="432" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-928M7VQ2edA/XiM7EFciyPI/AAAAAAAAbq4/pM1LVT-4TkcwoO4u3dg3M498HIO9N528wCEwYBhgL/s1600/sm6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1311" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-928M7VQ2edA/XiM7EFciyPI/AAAAAAAAbq4/pM1LVT-4TkcwoO4u3dg3M498HIO9N528wCEwYBhgL/s640/sm6.jpg" width="524" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Step 2: </b>Blend until all of ingredients are completely combined -- about 30 seconds. This ensures the oats and frozen fruit are completely blended. Pour the smoothie into a glass, garnish with a few additional blueberries, and serve.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KYV2nZfzDGI/XiM7CmI4i6I/AAAAAAAAbq4/3D5mg8kUCq4AnnMQNnMl8M3OArI43j_kACEwYBhgL/s1600/sm4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1218" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KYV2nZfzDGI/XiM7CmI4i6I/AAAAAAAAbq4/3D5mg8kUCq4AnnMQNnMl8M3OArI43j_kACEwYBhgL/s640/sm4.jpg" width="486" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Look at that gorgeous purple color!! This smoothie tastes as great as it looks...the blueberries and banana work perfectly with the tangy yogurt and earthy oats. I'll admit I was initially worried about the smoothie's sweetness level...but the frozen ripe banana provided the perfect sweetness. One thing to be aware of: because this smoothie contains oats, it will thicken up pretty quickly...so you might need a spoon to finish it up. That's totally <b><u>NOT</u></b> a bad thing! The fiber in the oats helps you stay full and satisfied for hours.</span></div></div></div></div>The Weekend Gourmethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04788802896161065857noreply@blogger.com0