Homemade Easter treats.

<div style="text-align: center;">Instead of just buying the usual mini chocolate eggs this season, if you are feeling ambitious why not try baking some of your own Easter treats? Here are a few recipes that will satisfy your sweet tooth that we have been dying to try:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQbj4yi258pFa4ZlMoq7Z4FFLvycws43oA1-v3Cc7rDvenz13njNu69jBhLo5aSW7LvmaXiAvd5mFFix6md7AvAeYukIkhwWvPoXzkNpRzZU39pJyn0cY81d6K4JkLj4_c653TzCXpUU0/s1600/grapefruit+pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQbj4yi258pFa4ZlMoq7Z4FFLvycws43oA1-v3Cc7rDvenz13njNu69jBhLo5aSW7LvmaXiAvd5mFFix6md7AvAeYukIkhwWvPoXzkNpRzZU39pJyn0cY81d6K4JkLj4_c653TzCXpUU0/s1600/grapefruit+pie.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Not only is this <a href="http://www.bojongourmet.com/2014/04/grapefruit-custard-pie-gluten-free.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">grapefruit custard pie</span></a> pretty to look at, but it also sounds so unique and delicious (and is also gluten free.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH69BIvL4a7xOWRqZVRQ0L2usj4gV0lAP-cOu9ARtw3kNgqNlfnl02rQKqBdlW1rVoZawYIqasC3Ybu8V_vpjD5oViJ0b42twlkSUvCh8srEj8eoHXIz1KYqZl1lWSrSW87rHBpAqPnbY/s1600/salted+caramel+cups.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH69BIvL4a7xOWRqZVRQ0L2usj4gV0lAP-cOu9ARtw3kNgqNlfnl02rQKqBdlW1rVoZawYIqasC3Ybu8V_vpjD5oViJ0b42twlkSUvCh8srEj8eoHXIz1KYqZl1lWSrSW87rHBpAqPnbY/s1600/salted+caramel+cups.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Whoa. <a href="http://sulia.com/channel/all-food-dining/f/b8b5b8d6-9b72-4abe-a697-c494cac49144/?action=share&source=pin&btn=big&pinner=55547221&form_factor=desktop" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">Salted Caramel Cups.</span></a> I didn't know these existed but I can already tell that they will be my new favorite.<span style="color: orange;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJeGI6K-1k8P1_MJKnhMabeme-qvFiW_uaYIL26euiVbkiRHwXJhuu6Z0k7nVUruZGNynbuXi5fZAUD2u3f3UUltsLyit-rce7OHueyizwS45GGHhwT4if4q04lZhA2cW0jRjTzn2Yazs/s1600/salted+caramel+blackberry+brownies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJeGI6K-1k8P1_MJKnhMabeme-qvFiW_uaYIL26euiVbkiRHwXJhuu6Z0k7nVUruZGNynbuXi5fZAUD2u3f3UUltsLyit-rce7OHueyizwS45GGHhwT4if4q04lZhA2cW0jRjTzn2Yazs/s1600/salted+caramel+blackberry+brownies.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Continuing on the salted caramel theme, these <a href="http://sulia.com/channel/all-food-dining/f/45d2ade5-f13c-474c-a3ae-5782ea12d81e/?action=share&source=pin&btn=big&pinner=55547221&form_factor=desktop" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">Salted Caramel Blackberry Brownies</span></a> look pretty darn incredible. That sounds like a very interesting flavor combination.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeTOubzvyISDBy-csH0VCI4liAy5YpBgYTPCk3CrnrKOlgfcii5c6Pn-1Pd9j-ewu-Z6mgmg6vCEizphMzgsPXcyb_CyCOGDVodXFSibgdy1CmzJ8vLEWIqnM6opZ78-KRo24jooNa6NA/s1600/nutella+donuts.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Obviously anything filled with Nutella is a winner.  Get the recipe for these yummy looking <a href="http://sulia.com/channel/all-food-dining/f/99e91571-b82f-4a58-9b01-765cd581ef56/?action=share&source=pin&btn=big&pinner=55547221&form_factor=desktop" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">Nutella stuffed doughnuts here.</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5CPQK11oMSOo7VYegX47VLx7-b4EwTabg38JTFiNTj1ojUwOLDPXOvB6rjkxmGXgRu0tuwKv5kBq_jQqVeAv212is0T4GlbH8bFphLMxj0qWQrOLaplzkNUlfmV2aJNZ7bc2v2XfEUuA/s1600/carrot+cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5CPQK11oMSOo7VYegX47VLx7-b4EwTabg38JTFiNTj1ojUwOLDPXOvB6rjkxmGXgRu0tuwKv5kBq_jQqVeAv212is0T4GlbH8bFphLMxj0qWQrOLaplzkNUlfmV2aJNZ7bc2v2XfEUuA/s1600/carrot+cake.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This recipe for <a href="http://www.fromthekitchen.co.nz/2014/01/big-bad-carrot-cake-with-orange-cream.html#.U1Ajv8eXvk0" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">Big Bad Carrot Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting</span></a> seems like the perfect spring dessert.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Happy baking! XO</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>

Homemade Easter treats.

Instead of just buying the usual mini chocolate eggs this season, if you are feeling ambitious why not try baking some of your own Easter tr...

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Vietnamese grilled pork noodle bowls

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4vdZ2tAjmj4YVdmZ8K5zVNnffRYuHrNl4gJN7hNAl3jZO-is2yuRT4Xc6MTzhrMwRrx4qUSTpiby-oIstPUNEmVyN2_yEWAQT3t6l4s72uOxiSy52829qKSe9iKxnC3KbZtJ_0jI-nN4/s1600/vietnamese_noodle_bowl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4vdZ2tAjmj4YVdmZ8K5zVNnffRYuHrNl4gJN7hNAl3jZO-is2yuRT4Xc6MTzhrMwRrx4qUSTpiby-oIstPUNEmVyN2_yEWAQT3t6l4s72uOxiSy52829qKSe9iKxnC3KbZtJ_0jI-nN4/s1600/vietnamese_noodle_bowl.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Vietnamese BBQ Pork Noodle Bowls</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>(original recipe found <a href="http://userealbutter.com/2012/11/05/vietnamese-grilled-lemongrass-pork-recipe/" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">here</span></a>)</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;">I love cooking Asian food, and when I came across this recipe I knew that it would be come a staple in our home, and I was right. It's cheap and easy to make, it's healthy and it's delicious. What more could you want?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Ingredients:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Marinade:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">1 1/2 Tbsp brown sugar</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 1/2 Tbsp garlic</div><div style="text-align: center;">3 shallots</div><div style="text-align: center;">3 stalks of lemongrass</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/4 tsp pepper</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 1/2 tbsp soy sauce</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 1/2 tbsp fish sauce</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 1/2 tbsp oil</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Sauce:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">3 limes juiced</div><div style="text-align: center;">2 tbsp brown sugar</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 tbsp garlic</div><div style="text-align: center;">4 tbsp fish sauce</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Noodle bowl:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">1 pack of thin pieces of pork shoulder</div><div style="text-align: center;">Rice vermicelli noodles</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 cucumber (cut into thin strips)</div><div style="text-align: center;">Bean sprouts</div><div style="text-align: center;">Fresh basil, mint and cilantro (as much as you like-I used a lot)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYOdKQhaYNEpoM0FMGHEL41QUOYil_G9JT5nQZLFBouJADQA60YzMwKPGJSrJVVU9PcBp5F9F6-2AeQ_A6HJJMXcRTtPR2RIiCCHZHSInEjmAtdezOXPpvfJUgnC9o6GOvewc_tKSU0Po/s1600/bbq_vietnamese_pork.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYOdKQhaYNEpoM0FMGHEL41QUOYil_G9JT5nQZLFBouJADQA60YzMwKPGJSrJVVU9PcBp5F9F6-2AeQ_A6HJJMXcRTtPR2RIiCCHZHSInEjmAtdezOXPpvfJUgnC9o6GOvewc_tKSU0Po/s1600/bbq_vietnamese_pork.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Instructions:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">The first thing you do is put the garlic, shallots, lemongrass and brown sugar in a food processor and pulse for 30 seconds. Next add the dark soy sauce, oil, pepper and fish sauce and pulse until mixed. Place the pork in a ziploc bag with this marinade and let marinate for 6-10 hours. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Next, light your BBQ and while it's heating up, cook the rice noodles and then prep all of your herbs and veggies. Place the pork directly on the grill and cook for approximately 7-10 min. While that's cooking, you can make the sauce for the noodle bowls, simply whisk the ingredients together. Once the meat is cooked, slice it into strips and build your noodle bowls. Top with peanuts if you like, and grab some chopsticks and dig in! The best part of this meal was the bbq'ed pork. It's so crispy and delicious and would be amazing in so many other dishes!</div>

Vietnamese grilled pork noodle bowls

Vietnamese BBQ Pork Noodle Bowls (original recipe found here ) I love cooking Asian food, and when I came across this recipe I knew that it ...

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Thai quinoa salad recipe

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's no secret that I love anything and everything Thai food related, so when I came across this recipe, and then later this one, I thought I would combine the two to create my own spin on things. I think I've perfected this recipe, and could literally eat this for breakfast, lunch or dinner. It's creamy and crunchy and is quick and easy to make. I hope you like it as much as I do!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgev3TV5LDvN0jm77JVpvEd0OW7NNj_NxG_ZyP7m5LuagCenekOmxfGNRTrN-Rp2oFctwfAmBTKkMeKJeYdJ_Dgvh96XZu5vM6cNrNYJ_HPSqYSzxyzqxXBxuxQA1xaPVVoKMTCMDJvU5E/s1600/thai_quinoa_salad_recipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgev3TV5LDvN0jm77JVpvEd0OW7NNj_NxG_ZyP7m5LuagCenekOmxfGNRTrN-Rp2oFctwfAmBTKkMeKJeYdJ_Dgvh96XZu5vM6cNrNYJ_HPSqYSzxyzqxXBxuxQA1xaPVVoKMTCMDJvU5E/s1600/thai_quinoa_salad_recipe.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #57c9cc; font-family: ProximaNovaLight, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 18px; text-transform: lowercase;">Ingredients:</span></div><div class="left" style="color: #6d6f71; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px 0px 25px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">1 cup of uncooked quinoa, rinsed</div><div class="ingredient" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 12px; margin-top: 5px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">2 chicken breasts, diced and cooked</div><div style="text-align: center;">2 cups of coleslaw mix</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 red pepper, diced</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/3 cup chopped green onions</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro</div><div style="text-align: center;">peanuts or cashews (optional)</div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 12px; margin-top: 5px; padding: 0px;"><h3 style="border-bottom-color: rgb(238, 237, 236); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 1px; clear: left; color: #57c9cc; font-family: ProximaNovaLight, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 18px; margin: 5px 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-transform: lowercase;">sauce:</h3><div style="text-align: center;">2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 tablespoon rice vinegar</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 small can of coconut milk</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 tablespoon brown sugar</div><div style="text-align: center;">3/4 cup of peanut butter (melt it in small bowl first)</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 garlic clove</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 lime, juiced</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 inch piece of ginger, chopped<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioy9H7PZvmMyjkYt2AvFVU2CXBpdwwYD-IPKW6FjsRqTiTOcOzYkcJfIaV2ZeRtuhwj5T2BC_oJ4boDGRGX16J9ZD0qenM3Xvnw7-2i4ihadCcYxsD5YeM9D02E2_ZOejEb68WbeZ8B8s/s1600/thai_quinoa_salad_recipe_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioy9H7PZvmMyjkYt2AvFVU2CXBpdwwYD-IPKW6FjsRqTiTOcOzYkcJfIaV2ZeRtuhwj5T2BC_oJ4boDGRGX16J9ZD0qenM3Xvnw7-2i4ihadCcYxsD5YeM9D02E2_ZOejEb68WbeZ8B8s/s1600/thai_quinoa_salad_recipe_.jpg" /></a><span style="color: #57c9cc; font-family: ProximaNovaLight, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 18px; text-transform: lowercase;">directions:</span></div></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #6d6f71; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, Times, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">* First cook the quinoa</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #6d6f71; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, Times, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">* Next fry up the chicken</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #6d6f71; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, Times, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">* Chop the red pepper, green onions and cilantro and put in a bowl with the coleslaw</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #6d6f71; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, Times, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">* Add the chicken and quinoa to the coleslaw mix</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #6d6f71; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, Times, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">*Finally make the dressing: melt the peanut butter first, and then stir in the rest of the ingredients. Add more lime juice or rice vinegar if you like.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #6d6f71; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, Times, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">* Add to the salad, mix and enjoy!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #6d6f71; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, Times, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #6d6f71; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, Times, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">(If you're eating the salad as leftovers the next day, make sure you re-heat the dressing, otherwise it gets a little thick.)</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGDwFWe2_3SA04hs6VNtCU0m6q5tcM9dXRV0UgU-HUvy101P2-C1_rTsQsjLtyw2S4bQwRmgNziDrDiOaHCsiuhkuEEufTUfQIyoPku84bh0ZOUVBWs53UHcAktXLlFusgbBuZoMY19sE/s1600/thai_quinoa_salad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGDwFWe2_3SA04hs6VNtCU0m6q5tcM9dXRV0UgU-HUvy101P2-C1_rTsQsjLtyw2S4bQwRmgNziDrDiOaHCsiuhkuEEufTUfQIyoPku84bh0ZOUVBWs53UHcAktXLlFusgbBuZoMY19sE/s1600/thai_quinoa_salad.jpg" /></a></div>

Thai quinoa salad recipe

It's no secret that I love anything and everything Thai food related, so when I came across this recipe, and then later this one, I thou...

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Let them eat (pink) cake!

<div style="text-align: center;">Alright you guys, Valentine's Day is just around the corner so we thought we would get the week started off on the right foot with some beautiful photos/recipes for pretty cakes that you can bake for your loved ones this Friday. Kinda gets you in the mood, right? Hope you all have a great Monday!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmty4minSm14OfFe38SDYZFchU8j87m7S5vUgSVnh2vKZyId7bamxxr56XKOwhBujEVdmi7kdAUpIB9oGs0iyH1rZqAcdbXLYL_nfNsS7UZ0LozXZx3zT1WQWhYU35KOKrFrY_p5F_oEU/s1600/fig+cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmty4minSm14OfFe38SDYZFchU8j87m7S5vUgSVnh2vKZyId7bamxxr56XKOwhBujEVdmi7kdAUpIB9oGs0iyH1rZqAcdbXLYL_nfNsS7UZ0LozXZx3zT1WQWhYU35KOKrFrY_p5F_oEU/s1600/fig+cake.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Ah yes, anything with figs has my heart. Such a <a href="http://fraeulein-klein.blogspot.ca/2012/11/kleine-feiereien.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">beautiful cake.</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUpnKHq5Vbua70qWcgTd1muXA1_UyL-9s4MhFzVTgWDU6qpnMX0AURkK8I_UKuUwR9rTBtItHjA-3SA4zKUd_vbx2ZKEBhnvyrlI7HzNd83clMrI5C_SPh4xS7sHwSM3UeJxnndArYmKw/s1600/1c15e9e82dd46ae48516e92788419be2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUpnKHq5Vbua70qWcgTd1muXA1_UyL-9s4MhFzVTgWDU6qpnMX0AURkK8I_UKuUwR9rTBtItHjA-3SA4zKUd_vbx2ZKEBhnvyrlI7HzNd83clMrI5C_SPh4xS7sHwSM3UeJxnndArYmKw/s1600/1c15e9e82dd46ae48516e92788419be2.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pureella.com/pure-passion-rose-petal-dark-chocolate-bar/" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">The ultimate chocolate bar: covered in rose petals.</span></a> Doesn't get much more romantic than that.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-g976KJHC0pkOqheNhq3yGH9fIeLpDVph2zMjBzgII3mztUtazh5W_gIveEu-4he7YgLR1UmMp9f3K67M6KR4RSBJH7QDCPtkOgL3rI3HE1U8qjA8uUEYUpKF83nlSiO8fmZkXgZiPRA/s1600/valentines+cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-g976KJHC0pkOqheNhq3yGH9fIeLpDVph2zMjBzgII3mztUtazh5W_gIveEu-4he7YgLR1UmMp9f3K67M6KR4RSBJH7QDCPtkOgL3rI3HE1U8qjA8uUEYUpKF83nlSiO8fmZkXgZiPRA/s1600/valentines+cake.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The cutest little <a href="http://mynameisyeh.com/mynameisyeh/2014/2/valentine-cake" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">Valentine's cake</span></a> ever.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDY_9wutwZUKs1-8GM1fsxH4Jh4H36ppmgULeirJvpB2c-ffsJX5yaCJS85YKnSHCKJrxmr59Lsk7DTkVT0ap5c6t-1sLaQQU7ERMeyeYpC77FUeadzhnFv_Muqbz6eXLE9Or-XhuqbVw/s1600/grapefruit+cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDY_9wutwZUKs1-8GM1fsxH4Jh4H36ppmgULeirJvpB2c-ffsJX5yaCJS85YKnSHCKJrxmr59Lsk7DTkVT0ap5c6t-1sLaQQU7ERMeyeYpC77FUeadzhnFv_Muqbz6eXLE9Or-XhuqbVw/s1600/grapefruit+cake.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> This <a href="http://www.annies-eats.com/2014/01/29/blood-orange-loaf-cake/?crlt.pid=camp.eQxcjYY4nBZi" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">blood orange loaf cake</span></a> has a bit of a summery twist to it but hey, we're definitely ready for that!</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_GfwHIVnVjcK689MNCZ0hFCoUm0IhGhjogTvVtvF-j0Ezlugq_A-wR5cAfEIEGCXMiUPCrRqTms5ltUjONj5uv-gRb2qGBPWYSJE_7M3XEnVv4UQx6GJaxlv4z2kiY1VYOUPrk4QlUC0/s1600/61ce16366bc6e930260531f4d18a534a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_GfwHIVnVjcK689MNCZ0hFCoUm0IhGhjogTvVtvF-j0Ezlugq_A-wR5cAfEIEGCXMiUPCrRqTms5ltUjONj5uv-gRb2qGBPWYSJE_7M3XEnVv4UQx6GJaxlv4z2kiY1VYOUPrk4QlUC0/s1600/61ce16366bc6e930260531f4d18a534a.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> Feeling a bit ambitious? Try this delicious looking recipe for <a href="http://thebountyhunter.ca/recipes/strawberry-rosewater-ice-cream" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">strawberry rosewater ice cream</span></a>! Mmm..</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">XOXO</div>

Let them eat (pink) cake!

Alright you guys, Valentine's Day is just around the corner so we thought we would get the week started off on the right foot with some ...

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Butterscotch pretzel chocolate chip cookies.

<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcH8xI7yShueMyEPPTcZT0-F2KYpCMnfFDUOeiTygX5nqAn7JT9jjzyJ1ozUjYgzsF9DvB-ccalO52g4f31F_Q0ka7Gb_IKHtiNhZ7StGGcSfKQP50_p2T1aXq3cEZDuLqZ3mJ5I7uMf4/s1600/butterscotch+pretzel+cookies+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcH8xI7yShueMyEPPTcZT0-F2KYpCMnfFDUOeiTygX5nqAn7JT9jjzyJ1ozUjYgzsF9DvB-ccalO52g4f31F_Q0ka7Gb_IKHtiNhZ7StGGcSfKQP50_p2T1aXq3cEZDuLqZ3mJ5I7uMf4/s1600/butterscotch+pretzel+cookies+1.jpg" /></a></div>I was perusing Pinterest the other day when I stumbled on <a href="http://www.unegaminedanslacuisine.com/2012/01/pretzel-butterscotch-chocolate-chip.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">this interesting looking recipe for chocolate chip cookies with pretzels and butterscotch.</span></a> I'd never had a cookie with crushed pretzels in it before, so I figured it was worth giving a try and let me tell you I was not disappointed! If you are looking for a yummy cookie recipe give this one a try:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDFbXAHvQBA_jXgp_HoybV4feFlZmsQKIOs6WTAxYbK4uOsJQYVrH7eREf8Wjh6hdGgc8Or2DvAodFfYo72_ZbCQGYNFQcePWIs9RLayvMKqmsjHx4FrvcMOZYRhgO87uBNAjuqITvRzk/s1600/cookie+ingredients.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDFbXAHvQBA_jXgp_HoybV4feFlZmsQKIOs6WTAxYbK4uOsJQYVrH7eREf8Wjh6hdGgc8Or2DvAodFfYo72_ZbCQGYNFQcePWIs9RLayvMKqmsjHx4FrvcMOZYRhgO87uBNAjuqITvRzk/s1600/cookie+ingredients.jpg" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;">YOU WILL NEED: </div><div style="text-align: center;">(makes about 2 dozen cookies)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">-1 cup unsalted butter, cut into 8 pieces</div><div style="text-align: center;">-2 1/4 cups flour</div><div style="text-align: center;">-1 tsp salt</div><div style="text-align: center;">-1 tsp baking soda</div><div style="text-align: center;">-1/4 cup white sugar</div><div style="text-align: center;">-1 1/4 cups brown sugar</div><div style="text-align: center;">-1 egg</div><div style="text-align: center;">-1 egg yolk</div><div style="text-align: center;">-2 tbsp milk</div><div style="text-align: center;">-1 tsp vanilla extract</div><div style="text-align: center;">-1/2 cup pretzels, broken up into little pieces</div><div style="text-align: center;">-1/2 cup butterscotch chips</div><div style="text-align: center;">-1/2 cup chocolate chips</div><div style="text-align: center;">-coarse sea salt</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheEUNpJMGU0Nwrq0jhoa4GQHWTLz1aWecMRzjyDZj4J9lGdwmo0jsRGnwck32qaoAIVGF8g_gm1B2ovbhc3lQ3ANkqY0s7AtiQZ9p4IAaxVsLkN1kVPyaq0hI0o7EkIA8IKS690XwY8TU/s1600/cookies+uncooked.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheEUNpJMGU0Nwrq0jhoa4GQHWTLz1aWecMRzjyDZj4J9lGdwmo0jsRGnwck32qaoAIVGF8g_gm1B2ovbhc3lQ3ANkqY0s7AtiQZ9p4IAaxVsLkN1kVPyaq0hI0o7EkIA8IKS690XwY8TU/s1600/cookies+uncooked.jpg" /></a></div>Place the butter into a medium sauce pan over low heat. Once the butter has melted, increase the heat to medium and cook until it is golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Keep a close watch on the butter because you want it to stay a nice golden brown color and it can burn very quickly. Once you achieve this remove it from the heat immediately and set aside to cool for about 20 minutes.<br /><br />In a large bowl sift together flour, salt, baking soda and set aside. Pour the cooled brown butter into a large bowl and add both sugars. Using a hand mixer beat on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. Then add the egg and the yolk and beat to combine. Next add the milk and vanilla and beat for another 2-3 minutes. Slowly add the flour mixture and beat until everything is well combined. Using a wooden spoon mix in the chocolate chips, butterscotch chips and pretzels, and then cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 8 hours.<br /><br />Preheat the oven to 350F and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Remove the chilled dough from fridge and and scoop out about a tablespoon size for each cookie. Roll into a ball and flatten slightly and place about 1 inch apart on the baking sheet. Sprinkle cookies with sea salt then bake for about 10 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5nOihr9XJyA0zcSYSIu6NCQfRByg5AfXJv6jkuu1OHsT-F79eTJvSmROIaFeMO4pFSoqtMikVnKbukbdN4tIQxG1W9gT4279APZ8vqy2d4tJI-_XheU60AOlYnsfuRT4Xf6bejM-11P4/s1600/butterscotch+pretzel+cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5nOihr9XJyA0zcSYSIu6NCQfRByg5AfXJv6jkuu1OHsT-F79eTJvSmROIaFeMO4pFSoqtMikVnKbukbdN4tIQxG1W9gT4279APZ8vqy2d4tJI-_XheU60AOlYnsfuRT4Xf6bejM-11P4/s1600/butterscotch+pretzel+cookies.jpg" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;">Enjoy while still warm and fresh from the oven! </div><div style="text-align: center;">XO, Stef</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.unegaminedanslacuisine.com/2012/01/pretzel-butterscotch-chocolate-chip.html" target="_blank"><i>original recipe found here.</i></a></div>

Butterscotch pretzel chocolate chip cookies.

I was perusing Pinterest the other day when I stumbled on this interesting looking recipe for chocolate chip cookies with pretzels and butte...

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Soup's on.

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So our temperatures here in Winnipeg this Winter have not been pleasant to say the least, but we've managed to stay warm (for the most part) thanks to the mass amounts of soup we've been making lately. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here are some recipes that we are planning on trying out soon:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.loveandlemons.com/2014/01/15/tomato-chickpea-coconut-soup/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdW0fGkkN8sL4ixRW8egMo_9LMalmUk0gWoaMxDD7t1X0lNUHtlkh_85Q-hpfp6g8bMM35uGatMW1U-gsNTpgy05Ltq4hVJdbcFPd45-Aw9kEg8BAauAJKnHCOrlXJdiJUEjU5bgW7kdA/s1600/tomato_chickpea_soup.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.loveandlemons.com/2014/01/15/tomato-chickpea-coconut-soup/" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">Tomato, chickpea and coconut soup</span></a>. Yum!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://dashandbella.blogspot.ca/2012/12/i-know-mama-who_13.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji_7caQRmY3AhkTK1hTqRzz9vw4ipYXTyGjkMKc4-irC5zxvUDkIggHNzgOOPRFtxRiwNGO-mN5DHgLnuv6muWldmo8WL-jzee87w5uf0N92wUe0wyRPhm3Zs7hyphenhyphenxRywUDmTl1i0NuwL8/s1600/chickpea_soup.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mmm...<a href="http://dashandbella.blogspot.ca/2012/12/i-know-mama-who_13.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">buttnernut squash soup</span></a> with smoky chickpea croutons? Sign us up.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://dashandbella.blogspot.ca/2012/12/i-know-mama-who_13.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLtbRelO7LkYrY2vU_XAxQeXip-yOuK1JpI3jhVp96HROt4mE4JFVZvLMOZ2-kw8wRqKSbW1059XgzJWn4xItL5efgTFc8NPcJa00UUyBZncXS-tXVU1ZxUCAs9pf8lPIX43mT6cNbYHE/s1600/white_bean_soup.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This <a href="http://dashandbella.blogspot.ca/2012/12/i-know-mama-who_13.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">white bean and potato soup</span></a> looks incredible.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLgNq8eQZxHOi-r3QFudWVpbOv90yNp-bMPlC_Vro1ouTia-2TUwwGeAd0kTwwlPnzxDGCVv4klIQfZvY-Az9xdlUXftBo-qcXXazazoDfavEl0JPLrbVrc0iKqyt36a26X9fUUeeB7-4/s1600/love_and_lemons_broccoli_pistachio_soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLgNq8eQZxHOi-r3QFudWVpbOv90yNp-bMPlC_Vro1ouTia-2TUwwGeAd0kTwwlPnzxDGCVv4klIQfZvY-Az9xdlUXftBo-qcXXazazoDfavEl0JPLrbVrc0iKqyt36a26X9fUUeeB7-4/s1600/love_and_lemons_broccoli_pistachio_soup.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Another one from <a href="http://www.loveandlemons.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">this great blog</span></a>, <a href="http://www.loveandlemons.com/2012/03/06/broccoli-pistachio-soup/" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">broccoli & pistachio soup</span></a>!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.acouplecooks.com/2014/01/sweet-potato-soup-harissa-greens/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvRLqVk4ciMK8XPOLVjUC9OkB7tZioQexWxAwgsckwewVRhUCEIOz4ryZOiJkwBohy3dso0XWJDH6uadjB8GpTyGvlJi7wQAnxx0YYhLNKaBltO7oodk9KT08KdMyZZEKQdf4rI7ntPug/s1600/sweet_potato_soup.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.acouplecooks.com/2014/01/sweet-potato-soup-harissa-greens/" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">This sweet potato soup</span></a> with harissa and greens looks really tasty too.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Do you have a favorite go-to soup recipe? We're always on the lookout for new recipes to try!</div>

Soup's on.

So our temperatures here in Winnipeg this Winter have not been pleasant to say the least, but we've managed to stay warm (for the most p...

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Chicken and spinach soup with pesto.

<div style="text-align: center;">Oh man, it is still frigid in these parts, so soups have been on heavy rotations for meal options for us. This is one of my favorite hearty soups and is guaranteed to warm you up on a chilly day:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfSCUJ3AtLMCKFQDuG3p5soqG0MLJDn5RdR9qsy7dGntr8D3sG-dujqVBL178mgsrQlfdVPP0RwaHu1d-OTksonqyQPKsMbNlmu0WrxUqV8szBh8QFcWwpXelEdsLbsNvw5MhDmPtxscU/s1600/ingredients.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfSCUJ3AtLMCKFQDuG3p5soqG0MLJDn5RdR9qsy7dGntr8D3sG-dujqVBL178mgsrQlfdVPP0RwaHu1d-OTksonqyQPKsMbNlmu0WrxUqV8szBh8QFcWwpXelEdsLbsNvw5MhDmPtxscU/s1600/ingredients.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><ul><li itemprop="ingredients">olive oil, divided</li><li itemprop="ingredients">1/2 cup carrots, chopped </li><li itemprop="ingredients">2 large chicken breasts, cut into quarters</li><li itemprop="ingredients">1 large clove garlic, minced</li><li itemprop="ingredients">5 cups chicken broth</li><li itemprop="ingredients">1 1/2 teaspoons marjoram</li><li itemprop="ingredients">1 cup of baby spinach, coarsely chopped</li><li itemprop="ingredients">1 can of cannellini beans, rinsed</li><li itemprop="ingredients">1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese</li><li itemprop="ingredients">1/3 cup basil leaves</li><li itemprop="ingredients">salt and pepper to taste</li><li itemprop="ingredients">3/4 cup croutons for garnish </li></ul></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNuGiXHqxlb6LKt8KfbNuKJ_JzaEmAAAX3pQb-_qNMH5BcwCZ9-3krUGiGmAIt5Js35LQdsBPF50_rntS81uRWa_HsPAZUWk64JY_DQGkk-PEdTuaA-_nVQ2cfdTbzPHS3gKY19rJU4d4/s1600/chicken+pesto+soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNuGiXHqxlb6LKt8KfbNuKJ_JzaEmAAAX3pQb-_qNMH5BcwCZ9-3krUGiGmAIt5Js35LQdsBPF50_rntS81uRWa_HsPAZUWk64JY_DQGkk-PEdTuaA-_nVQ2cfdTbzPHS3gKY19rJU4d4/s1600/chicken+pesto+soup.jpg" /></a></div><br />Heat oil in a large saucepan or Dutch over over medium-high heat. Add carrot and chicken; cook, turning the chicken and stirring frequently, until the chicken begins to brown, 3 to 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring, for 1 minute more. Stir in broth and marjoram; bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through, about 5 minutes.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />Transfer the chicken pieces to a cutting board to cool. Add spinach and beans to the pot and bring to a gentle boil. Cook for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.<br /><br />Combine about 1 tablespoon of olive oil, parmesan and basil in a food processor and blend until a coarse paste forms, adding a little water as necessary. Cut the chicken into bite-size pieces. Stir the chicken and pesto into the pot and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with croutons.<br /><br />Serve piping hot and enjoy!<br /><br />XO<br /><a href="http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/chicken_spinach_pesto_soup.html" target="_blank"><i><br /></i></a><a href="http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/chicken_spinach_pesto_soup.html" target="_blank"><i>original recipe found here.</i></a></div><ol itemprop="recipeinstructions"></ol>

Chicken and spinach soup with pesto.

Oh man, it is still frigid in these parts, so soups have been on heavy rotations for meal options for us. This is one of my favorite hearty ...

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Party planning!

<div style="text-align: center;">Bored of doing the same ol' thing for dinner parties? Well here are some fun unique meal ideas that you should try instead!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjenqEblicHkviiW0FpsfwXx8IwAicOv4w16RHqZ8Xk0x-VFuIMTedr_fxElB961Iga847onXAlrerklRGhSikhA0eoY0H8Bg_eNixWpVl-dG95BH2AjzLQl2FoJUBLoKeK7TnLcmri3f0/s1600/cheese+pairings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjenqEblicHkviiW0FpsfwXx8IwAicOv4w16RHqZ8Xk0x-VFuIMTedr_fxElB961Iga847onXAlrerklRGhSikhA0eoY0H8Bg_eNixWpVl-dG95BH2AjzLQl2FoJUBLoKeK7TnLcmri3f0/s1600/cheese+pairings.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Make a giant cheese board and pair each piece of cheese with a complimentary fruit, veggie, or chutney. Try aged gouda and cucumber or goat cheese and cantaloupe.<br />Source found <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/1005008/summertime-cheese-pairings?xsc=soc_pin_summertimecheesepairings&crlt.pid=camp.UjFGmAOG7XNX" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">here.</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7vyfTJTLi5vgYMn3TUtRFkoIJiN93gzqeagrXFbR8B2D75gbv1RKw6pr4SAh3Q2lbENH4oOzp20P4lcNBMWEYloziCyF7vMBbSrXZcA2c6hX5GtFpKc-fEkchXwrmNI2aCGDk1bGEW5Q/s1600/apple+greek+yogurt+pancakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7vyfTJTLi5vgYMn3TUtRFkoIJiN93gzqeagrXFbR8B2D75gbv1RKw6pr4SAh3Q2lbENH4oOzp20P4lcNBMWEYloziCyF7vMBbSrXZcA2c6hX5GtFpKc-fEkchXwrmNI2aCGDk1bGEW5Q/s1600/apple+greek+yogurt+pancakes.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Make breakfast for dinner! This recipe for <a href="http://www.foodrecipeshq.com/apple-and-greek-yogurt-pancakes/" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">apple and greek yogurt pancakes </span></a>looks pretty delicious.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBWYe4jjmFMJ6xts5-0pNInvu0YZurfaBjlcfsnArPR7Ug7fnuB-xtUxi2FqKpfbS_oWmG43lhJxTilEPKru3TVhrxiOrIuF7ikeYE9xEqZPNQnrxivrP4qXxPwBYl-jCwFTTH1C73A_8/s1600/kale+and+white+bean+crostini.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBWYe4jjmFMJ6xts5-0pNInvu0YZurfaBjlcfsnArPR7Ug7fnuB-xtUxi2FqKpfbS_oWmG43lhJxTilEPKru3TVhrxiOrIuF7ikeYE9xEqZPNQnrxivrP4qXxPwBYl-jCwFTTH1C73A_8/s1600/kale+and+white+bean+crostini.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Instead of having a formal dinner around your dining room table, just plan an evening of heavy appetizers. Try <span style="color: orange;">this recipe for kale & white bean crostini.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-3guroy0QpRb3TQsgYH1sQn5wSvVTaahgEZAXPY-xpvzwnfA9HRJVA6XdgLBNTlBDKYOR5t56DAflCm9KnewBmJx8nbnGV-jltr0S59jkog-tD1dmtCNc183it2u2s55k-DyLmWoJjgk/s1600/fig+croissant+sandwich.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-3guroy0QpRb3TQsgYH1sQn5wSvVTaahgEZAXPY-xpvzwnfA9HRJVA6XdgLBNTlBDKYOR5t56DAflCm9KnewBmJx8nbnGV-jltr0S59jkog-tD1dmtCNc183it2u2s55k-DyLmWoJjgk/s1600/fig+croissant+sandwich.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Set up a sandwich bar with fancy toppings like this <a href="http://expensivelife.tumblr.com/tagged/pop" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">incredible looking croissant with figs, proscuitto and arugula. </span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxHoLoIBrXNAT_WkxrjouUl5zM4wHsEuc7XSdYVc699Mg-TRpONTeNBvCuEDM-cdnSa5FXGs9ficohDYCqNU8gAyIFUEq0tdqPSMCB3vlidQv3v6emO40COAXWURFS_iSyPW1EylUzXlg/s1600/raclette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxHoLoIBrXNAT_WkxrjouUl5zM4wHsEuc7XSdYVc699Mg-TRpONTeNBvCuEDM-cdnSa5FXGs9ficohDYCqNU8gAyIFUEq0tdqPSMCB3vlidQv3v6emO40COAXWURFS_iSyPW1EylUzXlg/s1600/raclette.jpg" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;">Ever tried raclette? Because if you haven't then you definitely should! If you like eating lots of melted gooey cheese then this is for sure up your alley.<br /><a href="http://chefmimiblog.com/2012/12/14/raclette-2/" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">Photo source</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>

Party planning!

Bored of doing the same ol' thing for dinner parties? Well here are some fun unique meal ideas that you should try instead! Make a giant...

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Thai butternut squash soup

<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifVAfec59AyCpUhPxJicCtaN5wnVkJ9mEik8NBTbBXuKHx3v26WKlfJ0WjPTT79KzXbwPbuPhSBKCXsNpNOtVEpPGALUCt4VxD6TCtA2U2BoWQU40KKdfVGk8qzBqOsECrKMpqpdZA30A/s1600/thai_butternut_squash_soup_recipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifVAfec59AyCpUhPxJicCtaN5wnVkJ9mEik8NBTbBXuKHx3v26WKlfJ0WjPTT79KzXbwPbuPhSBKCXsNpNOtVEpPGALUCt4VxD6TCtA2U2BoWQU40KKdfVGk8qzBqOsECrKMpqpdZA30A/s1600/thai_butternut_squash_soup_recipe.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I have been on a bit of a soup kick lately, and I had some butternut squash lying around in my kitchen and thought to myself, why not spice it up? Naturally I did more of a Thai twist on things and it turned out really great! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>Ingredients:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">* 2 medium sized butternut squash</div><div style="text-align: center;">* 1 yellow onion</div><div style="text-align: center;">* 4 Cups of chicken stock</div><div style="text-align: center;">* Juice of 2 limes</div><div style="text-align: center;">* 1" piece of ginger, chopped</div><div style="text-align: center;">* 2 or 3 cloves of garlic</div><div style="text-align: center;">* 1 can of coconut milk</div><div style="text-align: center;">* 1 bunch of cilantro</div><div style="text-align: center;">* 1 Tbsp cumin</div><div style="text-align: center;">* 3 ripe tomatoes, or 1 large can of chopped tomatoes</div><div style="text-align: center;">* 2 Tbsp of Thai red chili paste</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHNCq_plN1muAwhwd635iDgycXt6RYe69V4nx6W9sKW43DHVti9gJCNqwptTV847eFgBZhXcjg9og9ZjFk6t3-D2rhWYh-Pl3D0ouXG6WTkBhFAOPgapDsuDB6V0Gkk__0ngymSJ9_JRg/s1600/butternut_squash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHNCq_plN1muAwhwd635iDgycXt6RYe69V4nx6W9sKW43DHVti9gJCNqwptTV847eFgBZhXcjg9og9ZjFk6t3-D2rhWYh-Pl3D0ouXG6WTkBhFAOPgapDsuDB6V0Gkk__0ngymSJ9_JRg/s1600/butternut_squash.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Instructions:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">- Take the squash and cut them in half lengthwise and put on a baking sheet and drizzle with a bit of oil and then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast squash for approximately 1 hour or until soft.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">- In a frying pan, cook the onion with the garlic and ginger.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">- Take the squash out of the oven and let cool. Then, scoop out the squash and place in a large pot with the chicken stock. Add the onion mixture into the pot and bring to a slow boil. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">- Add the chilli paste, tomatoes, and cumin.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">- Using an immersion blender, blend until smooth.  </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">- Finally stir in the coconut milk and the cilantro.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhV4ie2ccT9QVQaxe0xJg1d866QMdb3u4h87qUOOPVgNucA7v4RySejvH41pR9BvCAXMHThhP7LovDnpNYCvEazsqvZl2PGV6lDuDfVwX5QetDa8maCluRBuLSh7OHfFql2zGAgQjvwJY/s1600/thai_butternut_squash_soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhV4ie2ccT9QVQaxe0xJg1d866QMdb3u4h87qUOOPVgNucA7v4RySejvH41pR9BvCAXMHThhP7LovDnpNYCvEazsqvZl2PGV6lDuDfVwX5QetDa8maCluRBuLSh7OHfFql2zGAgQjvwJY/s1600/thai_butternut_squash_soup.jpg" /></a></div>XO, Erin</div>

Thai butternut squash soup

I have been on a bit of a soup kick lately, and I had some butternut squash lying around in my kitchen and thought to myself, why not spice ...

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A simple toffee-covered marshmallow recipe.

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwYEkDofpmVCHZ11DOgTiKpqi3bPS5z8OgtFCRKVMot2LOpNRzkRaSEV7gcGykglRLSpojH45ic8wI7uk6x-FoMflEnW7ShWF0qAdk1ZTXBAoVls7lngjN4gAH9WA0meOcc4LBrzp_37M/s1600/toffee_marshmallow_recipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwYEkDofpmVCHZ11DOgTiKpqi3bPS5z8OgtFCRKVMot2LOpNRzkRaSEV7gcGykglRLSpojH45ic8wI7uk6x-FoMflEnW7ShWF0qAdk1ZTXBAoVls7lngjN4gAH9WA0meOcc4LBrzp_37M/s1600/toffee_marshmallow_recipe.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We know how things get super hectic right before Christmas, and with all of the parties and gatherings going on, it's nice to have a back-up plan for something sweet to bring along. This recipe is one of my favorites for the holidays, and it's really simple to make!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>You will need:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">A double boiler. (I used two pots that stacked on top of each other and filled the bottom pot with 2 inches of water)</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 bag of large marshmallows</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 C. margarine</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 can of Eagle brand sweetened condensed milk</div><div style="text-align: center;">250 grams of Macintosh toffee (or other wrapped caramels will work) This comes out to one and a half bags or 32 pieces.</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 3/4 C coconut</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 3/4 C crushed cornflakes</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPbb7ImbP8YLnhWMGDh6thf2qzWSeSIogyTj3yAAtdmzG5i0s26B5_ycH5JtqgfiFfqNf4VPgNowb5sXE9cVBcHUmnHRGzHPGtg9KbAHoF1PVH_7Z3SK43nMno6cCbArVw1Snx8uZQ1ys/s1600/toffee_marshmallows_coconut_cornflakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPbb7ImbP8YLnhWMGDh6thf2qzWSeSIogyTj3yAAtdmzG5i0s26B5_ycH5JtqgfiFfqNf4VPgNowb5sXE9cVBcHUmnHRGzHPGtg9KbAHoF1PVH_7Z3SK43nMno6cCbArVw1Snx8uZQ1ys/s1600/toffee_marshmallows_coconut_cornflakes.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>All you do:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">-First get your double boiler set up with a bit of water in the bottom pot, but don't fill it all of the way. Bring the water to a boil and then place the top pot on it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">-Put the margarine, the unwrapped toffees and the sweetened condensed milk in the top pot and melt. You just want to slowly melt the ingredients above. Once it's nice and creamy, turn down the heat.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">-Grab a fork and start tossing a few marshmallows at a time in the caramel sauce. Once covered in toffee, stab one marshmallow at a time and transfer to the bowl with the coconut/cornflake mixture and move it around until it's covered. I used my hand to toss the mixture as well. It sounds complicated, but it's really not, you'll figure it out quickly. It does get a little messy, and will be tempting not to eat the mixture without the marshmallows in it! Now place on a cookie sheet and set aside. You can use parchment paper if you like, but I prefer to put them straight on the baking sheet. Pop them in the freezer and once they are frozen you can twist them off of the baking sheet and serve! It's tradition in my family to eat them semi-frozen with a cup of tea, but they are equally delicious at room temperature!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia-FrHxzRAXn65BoCoyNJsv23cunw2kjhmLrheAxnfkGKk3f_p_bWmPot8wOteAnFFEa0y1sFs5NrzQv0thVaUQi4-9fQ4bF86cRkqq6-CmRzVcKFftDkbL1MvM6nynzNxS4gvlWHuCOM/s1600/toffee_marshmallows_with_coconut_cornflakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia-FrHxzRAXn65BoCoyNJsv23cunw2kjhmLrheAxnfkGKk3f_p_bWmPot8wOteAnFFEa0y1sFs5NrzQv0thVaUQi4-9fQ4bF86cRkqq6-CmRzVcKFftDkbL1MvM6nynzNxS4gvlWHuCOM/s1600/toffee_marshmallows_with_coconut_cornflakes.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Enjoy!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>

A simple toffee-covered marshmallow recipe.

We know how things get super hectic right before Christmas, and with all of the parties and gatherings going on, it's nice to have a bac...

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Mulled apple cider recipe.

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuCtVR0FuT_U6VaGJVXYnHhjvnton9vtSiYRKBxJ35ZzqJLNUvmlFajRlFWZeY3Wnt9mD_WLBLB9WY5pZsYEWYur-Idlgn2wuDMr1wNCe546bx7jE6SOcmIzFYGGBv6-OKBUyDnGeEaQ4/s1600/mulled_apple_cider4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuCtVR0FuT_U6VaGJVXYnHhjvnton9vtSiYRKBxJ35ZzqJLNUvmlFajRlFWZeY3Wnt9mD_WLBLB9WY5pZsYEWYur-Idlgn2wuDMr1wNCe546bx7jE6SOcmIzFYGGBv6-OKBUyDnGeEaQ4/s1600/mulled_apple_cider4.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">As temperatures continually drop, and snow keeps piling up, we are finding ways to stay warm, and this recipe for mulled apple cider is just the ticket! It's such a simple recipe and it makes your house smell like Christmas which is an added bonus!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhafdM2gE9Y2T5GZTSGJG5AoUQI29TZSeeBaSr3RN3XQ2U7oVWvNlv67A41uzifPOvt2kPunQLk7jIq0brCKacLf7Kn0KCU71nHbLt47xbvixCoEfGE2p9nfgUe_eMmeXpRNpDxtHUr-XY/s1600/mulled_apple_cider3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhafdM2gE9Y2T5GZTSGJG5AoUQI29TZSeeBaSr3RN3XQ2U7oVWvNlv67A41uzifPOvt2kPunQLk7jIq0brCKacLf7Kn0KCU71nHbLt47xbvixCoEfGE2p9nfgUe_eMmeXpRNpDxtHUr-XY/s1600/mulled_apple_cider3.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">All you need:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>4 Cups of apple juice</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>1/4 Cup of brown sugar</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>5 cinnamon sticks</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>1 fuji apple</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>1 orange</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>1" sliced ginger</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>2 slices of lemon</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>1 Tbsp whole cloves</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>1 tsp ground allspice</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih32A6owhLvtQj5Z9nW7MwmgIPriKFL777UMUIAQ7AeZMxlIrRBkR31B5ZOZLKeGbfGnpdMd-yYBxrlDw6eiR17EU1DLDjgUHDz8L0WsRp3nSeKYc3kDJTqa2GhssY9SyQonEix9Q41h4/s1600/mulled_apple_cider2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih32A6owhLvtQj5Z9nW7MwmgIPriKFL777UMUIAQ7AeZMxlIrRBkR31B5ZOZLKeGbfGnpdMd-yYBxrlDw6eiR17EU1DLDjgUHDz8L0WsRp3nSeKYc3kDJTqa2GhssY9SyQonEix9Q41h4/s1600/mulled_apple_cider2.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Instructions:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Slice up the orange, apple and lemon and add to a pot with all of the other ingredients. Bring to a boil and then turn down the temperature and simmer for 25 minutes.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Next strain it into a second pot and let it cool a bit.</div><div style="text-align: center;">That's it! Easy peasy right?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEz4UvdzMHas1lZID9eX6C5Ptl4DxnVOerUpvAt9TeoXHTaDkKF3iXCfUYHQBqRS7j98Yyvvyqf0kZFZ6PYNVroHdi8TMaEHSDkHz5ICg6WaVxgzdXlStaUEQuVPWslS2Ajj9egstM9S0/s1600/mulled_apple_cider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEz4UvdzMHas1lZID9eX6C5Ptl4DxnVOerUpvAt9TeoXHTaDkKF3iXCfUYHQBqRS7j98Yyvvyqf0kZFZ6PYNVroHdi8TMaEHSDkHz5ICg6WaVxgzdXlStaUEQuVPWslS2Ajj9egstM9S0/s1600/mulled_apple_cider.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The best part? It's even better if you add bourbon!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We will be posting a simple DIY gift idea using this recipe in the next two weeks, so keep an eye out!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Enjoy!</div><div style="text-align: center;">xo, Erin</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>

Mulled apple cider recipe.

As temperatures continually drop, and snow keeps piling up, we are finding ways to stay warm, and this recipe for mulled apple cider is just...

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Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Casserole.

<div style="text-align: center;">Guys, I recently discovered this recipe and it is already one of my new favorite go-to recipes, in fact I love it so much that I have already made it twice in the last two weeks. It's also super simple and quick to throw together so it's the perfect dish to make for any last minute dinner guests. So I decided to share it with you on this Sunday afternoon just in case you are doing any meal planning for the week and are looking for a little yummy inspiration:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-e0A60CUht4NBzjFZUqPJhDHl5oRlcrtqiuL00swduwci-EhimInSa5bcP_NxOLq4CYRCdsZ8KRg72gPetI50J6ocQaAbrwgc17vtO1X_6hzirnNF6h1zJ1xkvnxAyZ67FMDjBXpBtVc/s1600/buffalo+chicken+quinoa+casserole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-e0A60CUht4NBzjFZUqPJhDHl5oRlcrtqiuL00swduwci-EhimInSa5bcP_NxOLq4CYRCdsZ8KRg72gPetI50J6ocQaAbrwgc17vtO1X_6hzirnNF6h1zJ1xkvnxAyZ67FMDjBXpBtVc/s1600/buffalo+chicken+quinoa+casserole.jpg" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>WHAT YOU NEED:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">1 1/2 cups quinoa, cooked</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 cup Greek yogurt</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 cup blue cheese, crumbled</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 cup cheddar cheese, grated</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 cup hot sauce (I used Sriracha)</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 lb skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 cup bacon, cooked and coarsely chopped (about 6 pieces or so)</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 cup of green onions, chopped </div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>*note: all of these amounts are approximate, feel free to add more or less as you please!*</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">First, cook the quinoa and set aside. Then cook the bacon until crispy and set aside. Season the chicken breasts with a sprinkle of salt and pepper and pan fry them until fully cooked. Then shred them up and toss with hot sauce.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim6duYQ8yPUArze70q2Ze1bLsXtmUvjL98NOWqV24nb8cSryNED2mdBXI310niPJQ8mL3D37X7qf0Arp1YqpOEkQLqe8HSqERKqMEH2lodYzjmDsghVuDz7Rrsb-1c7vvDIX6IBsrfcxY/s1600/buffalo+chicken+quinoa+casserole+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim6duYQ8yPUArze70q2Ze1bLsXtmUvjL98NOWqV24nb8cSryNED2mdBXI310niPJQ8mL3D37X7qf0Arp1YqpOEkQLqe8HSqERKqMEH2lodYzjmDsghVuDz7Rrsb-1c7vvDIX6IBsrfcxY/s1600/buffalo+chicken+quinoa+casserole+2.jpg" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a 9x13 casserole dish layer quinoa, Greek yogurt, chicken, blue cheese, and cheddar cheese. Repeat these layers another time. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese beings to bubble and melt, then remove from the oven and top with the green onions and bacon bits. Throw the casserole back in the oven on broil for another 5 minutes or so. Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream and enjoy!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So simple, right? Yet so delicious. </div><div style="text-align: center;">XO, Stef</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blueberryandbrie.com/blog/2013/10/5/cheesy-buffalo-chicken-quinoa-bake" target="_blank"><i>original recipe found here.</i></a></div>

Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Casserole.

Guys, I recently discovered this recipe and it is already one of my new favorite go-to recipes, in fact I love it so much that I have alread...

Read more »

Cilantro & lime fish taco recipe.

<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd_eFmOsN1l0KvXxmFv3Wn5S6s3y7Z7276y3FB3ZUNrJjhc-8hszlMMnq-ab6lhTLkOROTJCPZAuJFA2pguyWzRynxtaG81A2G5NXLgPqLYVJt1UCJso3e0rXVCGQonIP3anV6khVaiyg/s1600/cilantro+lime+fish+taco+recipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd_eFmOsN1l0KvXxmFv3Wn5S6s3y7Z7276y3FB3ZUNrJjhc-8hszlMMnq-ab6lhTLkOROTJCPZAuJFA2pguyWzRynxtaG81A2G5NXLgPqLYVJt1UCJso3e0rXVCGQonIP3anV6khVaiyg/s1600/cilantro+lime+fish+taco+recipe.jpg" /></a></div>This is a healthy twist on regular tacos because instead of using ground beef they are made with grilled fish. For those of you not into the idea of fish, don't be afraid of these because the fish is super flavorful and has a bit of a spice to it without a lot of over-powering fishy flavor. This is one of my favorite dishes so I would say that it's definitely worth a try!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>YOU WILL NEED:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">1 pound of tilapia (or any other white fish)</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 tbsp olive oil</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 lime, juice and zest</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 jalapeno, finely diced</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 clove of garlic, chopped</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 green onion, finely sliced</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 handful of cilantro, chopped</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 tsp ground cumin</div><div style="text-align: center;">salt and pepper to taste</div><div style="text-align: center;">8 small corn tortillas</div><div style="text-align: center;">3 cups red cabbage, shredded</div><div style="text-align: center;">2 large avocados, sliced</div><div style="text-align: center;">fresh pico de gallo or fresh salsa</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 batch of <b>cilantro lime crema</b> <i>(see below)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">a sprinkle of grated manchego cheese</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-RgghGU_sYY2DnFB0obzEXvZWvJP5UD34H_oV7iMAy6UNZeXVu2v6lUYr3BrlyqZGvQadhyiFFaoEQ08xEerRF7OJ1BTUBfy2fSWq0G34urkpEO8Exj7ljc5dfCSBH9cBbfC8FGv0yIE/s1600/taco+marinade+ingreidents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-RgghGU_sYY2DnFB0obzEXvZWvJP5UD34H_oV7iMAy6UNZeXVu2v6lUYr3BrlyqZGvQadhyiFFaoEQ08xEerRF7OJ1BTUBfy2fSWq0G34urkpEO8Exj7ljc5dfCSBH9cBbfC8FGv0yIE/s1600/taco+marinade+ingreidents.jpg" /></a></div>Start by marinating the fish in olive oil, lime juice & zest, jalapeno, garlic, onion, cilantro, salt and pepper for about 10-20 minutes. Then grill the fish for 4-6 minutes per side on medium-high heat until it is no longer translucent. Flake the fish and serve in tortilla shells with cabbage, avocado, fresh pico de gallo and top with a sprinkle of manchego cheese and <b>cilantro lime crema </b><i>(all you need to do to make this is puree together a 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 chopped green onion, 1 chopped jalapeno, 1/2 a limes juice & zest, and a handful of cilantro.)</i><br /><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE13ZVGoFF8zYU2gjwrfrpeXAJHC4dlWnxF-ZXdau9hrRRfPOQnw2jb7qA2PN9Fpy5RdNykKd-Wjf-jI-qs0O9FL7ssVQuUh3p73csvmHF2hfw4HIRc9u61gxhGVcKrRjgVbpnKymm1Hw/s1600/cilantro+lime+fish+taco+recipe+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE13ZVGoFF8zYU2gjwrfrpeXAJHC4dlWnxF-ZXdau9hrRRfPOQnw2jb7qA2PN9Fpy5RdNykKd-Wjf-jI-qs0O9FL7ssVQuUh3p73csvmHF2hfw4HIRc9u61gxhGVcKrRjgVbpnKymm1Hw/s1600/cilantro+lime+fish+taco+recipe+2.jpg" /></a></div>Mmm... I hope you enjoy! </div><div style="text-align: center;">XO, Stef</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://www.closetcooking.com/2012/01/cilantro-and-lime-fish-tacos.html" target="_blank">original recipe found here.</a></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>

Cilantro & lime fish taco recipe.

This is a healthy twist on regular tacos because instead of using ground beef they are made with grilled fish. For those of you not into the...

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Green mango salad.

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Like our last few trips, we are lucky enough to get to eat some pretty ridiculously amazing food while in Thailand. I have shared some of my favorite Asian-inspired recipes and now I'm sharing another recent favorite- green mango salad! It's so refreshing and I hope you like it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJnVvndR7xnbBxZcBBX7ECakU659zyuu9j7fBvPamA9oKBKJUIBO5L6kRP_fzs4t8eddcyNB1H2s1o43u-OXFlh7pUVp3tnmXUaZ6uLQbQER797DSoRQIY1yRZu091_hhbwNbUb0bi0w/s1600/green_mango_salad.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJnVvndR7xnbBxZcBBX7ECakU659zyuu9j7fBvPamA9oKBKJUIBO5L6kRP_fzs4t8eddcyNB1H2s1o43u-OXFlh7pUVp3tnmXUaZ6uLQbQER797DSoRQIY1yRZu091_hhbwNbUb0bi0w/s1600/green_mango_salad.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Ingredients:</b></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">2 large green mangoes (pick ones that are really green and hard) julienned</div><div style="text-align: center;">2 Thai red chillies (birds eye chillies)</div><div style="text-align: center;">3 Tbsp crushed peanuts</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 large shallot, chopped</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 handful of chopped cilantro</div><div style="text-align: center;">2 Tbsp fish sauce</div><div style="text-align: center;">3 Tbsp of fresh lime juice</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 tsp soy sauce</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 clove of garlic</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGSSwSh5P62ybJ6CM7N47KAEzajcGzfYG_1c1q2-X1kyPSw7sSbOfeU0bu8ZSnwH58h1HYdcvhOAIzJZfAe397Du-DzXx5BueSNTiUhHJzEZBDdPrd78wsBpMc56OLpaqbc_x2LglvOp8/s1600/green_mango_salad_recipe_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGSSwSh5P62ybJ6CM7N47KAEzajcGzfYG_1c1q2-X1kyPSw7sSbOfeU0bu8ZSnwH58h1HYdcvhOAIzJZfAe397Du-DzXx5BueSNTiUhHJzEZBDdPrd78wsBpMc56OLpaqbc_x2LglvOp8/s1600/green_mango_salad_recipe_2.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">- First peel the mangoes and then julienne them. I used a mandolin which made it super easy!</div><div style="text-align: center;">- Next make a dressing with the fish sauce, lime juice, soy sauce and garlic.</div><div style="text-align: center;">- Toss the mango in a bowl with the sauce and then throw in the cilantro, peanuts and shallot along with the thai chillies.</div><div style="text-align: center;">- Grab a pair of chopsticks and dig in!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> XO, Erin</div>

Green mango salad.

Like our last few trips, we are lucky enough to get to eat some pretty ridiculously amazing food while in Thailand. I have shared some of my...

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Mini chicken pot pies.

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYXdJCEgJHb7DOZihgWLbiZZ7peZfRYzJrgDIJzCWhcCJiz0TWcHsGZ718w2daTaKDNggRfG_A8eGxrisblWxyzsurRm6KN0LEkOHOA_LvPgdtEq_hU3uz4oUTHOwtM5AhfEJDKqglxik/s1600/chicken_pot_pie_recipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYXdJCEgJHb7DOZihgWLbiZZ7peZfRYzJrgDIJzCWhcCJiz0TWcHsGZ718w2daTaKDNggRfG_A8eGxrisblWxyzsurRm6KN0LEkOHOA_LvPgdtEq_hU3uz4oUTHOwtM5AhfEJDKqglxik/s1600/chicken_pot_pie_recipe.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">It's October and that makes us want to spend entire days indoors, music playing, apron on while filling the house with the smells of all of the comfort food that's on the go. I thought I would share one of my favorite go-to recipes for the season. Chicken pot pie. Goooood gravy I love a good pot pie.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">A friend shared <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/chicken-pot-pie-ix/" target="_blank"><span style="color: orange;">this recipe</span></a> with me a few years back, and I haven't even bothered to make a different pot pie since.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrmhG4PuYYBgd_Rwkij4NJSpf_LRXcu9CdIU2jWkfYVpLSz94Wi_MATlqdEN_Yq4xuNg3Y2_naT5sS9D5G43NBv8aC0s1_5uSptf3-IPTvfJsOhrUirAsipEbfSItKShBPCMNC2v3OnE/s1600/photo+1+%25285%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrmhG4PuYYBgd_Rwkij4NJSpf_LRXcu9CdIU2jWkfYVpLSz94Wi_MATlqdEN_Yq4xuNg3Y2_naT5sS9D5G43NBv8aC0s1_5uSptf3-IPTvfJsOhrUirAsipEbfSItKShBPCMNC2v3OnE/s1600/photo+1+%25285%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">*I usually double this recipe so that it makes two full pies, or two and a half dozen small ones. They freeze very well.*</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Recipe: </b></div><div style="text-align: center;">(for one pie or 15 mini pies)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">1 Pound of skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cubed.</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 Cup of chopped carrots</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 Cup of frozen green peas</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 Cup chopped celery</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/3 Cup of butter</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 small onion chopped</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/3 Cup of all-purpose flour</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 tsp salt</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 tsp pepper</div><div style="text-align: center;">3/4 tsp celery seed</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 3/4 Cups of chicken broth</div><div style="text-align: center;">2/3 Cup of milk</div><div style="text-align: center;">2 (9 inch) unbaked frozen pie crusts or 30 small tart shells</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH_jjvIlV3psClr730PaSeyhAypZJvUPi_PTuDz_CIPijtUiaDf38-a_YK7cpyYRZpM3LWWG4NW8MR128E_KwAQ3dk1mOW54fnEofYa7_Y-bRImFNoFQrwzew5xdaENHod-jPDACYi2CE/s1600/mini_chicken_pot_pie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH_jjvIlV3psClr730PaSeyhAypZJvUPi_PTuDz_CIPijtUiaDf38-a_YK7cpyYRZpM3LWWG4NW8MR128E_KwAQ3dk1mOW54fnEofYa7_Y-bRImFNoFQrwzew5xdaENHod-jPDACYi2CE/s1600/mini_chicken_pot_pie.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Directions:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>1.</b> Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>2.</b> In a saucepan, combine raw chicken, carrots, peas and celery. Add water to cover, and boil for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, drain and set aside.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>3.</b> In a frying pan over medium heat, cook onions in butter until soft and translucent. Stir in flour, salt, pepper and celery seed. Slowly stir in the chicken broth and milk. Simmer over medium heat until thick, and stir the entire time. It will thicken eventually!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>4.</b> Place the chicken mixture in bottom pie crust. Pour the gravy over top. Cover with top crust, seal edges, and cut away excess dough. Make several small slits in the top to allow steam to escape. If you are using the tarts, do the same thing and use a second tart upside down on top.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>5.</b> Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Cool for 10 minutes before serving.</div>

Mini chicken pot pies.

It's October and that makes us want to spend entire days indoors, music playing, apron on while filling the house with the smells of all...

Read more »