From Everyday to Gourmet

tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317Wed, 06 May 2026 14:12:19 +0000healthybreakfastbrunchchickensidescomfort foodvegetablesFoodie Pen PalsMexicansauceshealthifiedItalianappetizerseasypastaseafooddessertsthanksgivingturkeySouthernburgerclassicsandwichesasianbasicseggs benedictpotatoesvegetarianBreadsGiveawaysnacksveganHomemade Mondaysbeefbutternut squashcasserolecrazy cooking challengekalemeatlessnutellawordless wednesdayCinco de MayoDallasGreekLiquid Amino DietporkCara Box RevealSunday Suppercookiesfruitmarinadeno-carbpizzapolentasalsasidevietnameseFrom Everyday to GourmetLife. Lived Deliciously.http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/noreply@blogger.com (Lauren)Blogger144125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-1381091767933243892Sat, 31 Jan 2015 20:05:00 +00002015-02-02T14:34:02.139-06:00chickenhealthyBaked Gluten Free Buffalo Chicken & Creamy Blue Cheese Slaw Wraps<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCepQW65f74O1BkJW1AnFT8kEZxZ9KWuowGSgxTc-mtt72JnHEsaUs6KMJLtmqUQcuRUvuln4N0hpw5dinS3bWea7i33iHU09CyxBQ4r6nf7xDnn-olYEYh8ge41F2Fp4GMuO7AqYWCbk/s1600/Baked+Gluten+Free+Buffalo+Chicken+&+Blue+Cheese+Slaw+Wrap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Baked Gluten Free Buffalo Chicken and Blue Cheese Slaw Wraps" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCepQW65f74O1BkJW1AnFT8kEZxZ9KWuowGSgxTc-mtt72JnHEsaUs6KMJLtmqUQcuRUvuln4N0hpw5dinS3bWea7i33iHU09CyxBQ4r6nf7xDnn-olYEYh8ge41F2Fp4GMuO7AqYWCbk/s1600/Baked+Gluten+Free+Buffalo+Chicken+&+Blue+Cheese+Slaw+Wrap.jpg" height="428" title="Baked Gluten Free Buffalo Chicken and Blue Cheese Slaw Wraps" width="640"></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baked Gluten Free Buffalo Chicken and Creamy Blue Cheese Slaw Wraps</td></tr> </tbody></table> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> The. Diet. Is Coming.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Really, it's more of a cleanse than a diet. No sugar. No complex carbs. No dairy (except cottage cheese, which fortunately, I love). AND NO BOOZE. (Yeah, you read that right.) But before I dive head first into healthapoolza, I’m already begun dialing back the bad by making faux bad-for-me meals like this crunchy chicken wrap. Or cone. Whatever. It’s delicious no matter what shape it is.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> What I love about meals like this is they’re minimal work, high output. A marinade in a fridge staple, <a href="http://www.chobani.com/" target="_blank">Chobani Greek yogurt</a>, gives the otherwise boring (and easily dried out) chicken tenders an amazing tang and keeps them juicy. When it comes to getting a perfect tenderizing marinade, I’ve pretty much switched completely over from buttermilk to Greek yogurt. I always end up throwing out wasted buttermilk but since I can use leftover yogurt to make dressings, sauces, or my fave breakfast parfait, yogurt money is money well spent. Plus, it’s good for you! I love the thickness of the Chobani Greek yogurt – it’s perfect for clinging to meats, which is what you need in order to get the best results. The yogurt does double-duty in a creamy, tangy blue cheese broccoli slaw which helps cool things down a bit. Wrap it all up in a warm tortilla and you’re good to go! <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2015/01/baked-gluten-free-chicken-slaw-wraps.html#more">Click for more »</a>http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2015/01/baked-gluten-free-chicken-slaw-wraps.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-4914366842351367854Wed, 21 Jan 2015 01:16:00 +00002015-01-21T10:56:36.171-06:00breakfasteasySimple Supper - Hard-Boiled Eggs on Avocado Toast<div class="MsoNormal"> Happy (Belated) New Year!<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> I don’t know about you but, I’m trying like hell to get a handle on 2015. I’ve made so many To Do Lists – household projects, blog posts, last To Dos on the new blog site (yes! A whole new site! Soon!) and just about anything else I can think of – that now I think I need a To Do List to manage my To Do Lists! <i>(Pretty sure that’s a record for number of times “To Do List” has been used in a sentence.)</i><o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> The holidays were great, albeit a little injurious for me: major blisters on my Papa Toes from dancing the night away in new shoes, a broken front tooth crown which had to be repaired during the week between Christmas and New Year’s (spoiler alert for your future holiday dentistry needs: THEY’RE CLOSED) and an extremely painful burn, somewhere between 2<sup>nd</sup> and 3<sup>rd</sup> degree, on the top of my foot on Christmas morning. Luckily, the green bean casserole for which the homemade cream of mushroom <s>molten lava</s> soup was being made, came out tasting fab. My cousin locked down Hostess of the Year 2014 award by having real-deal pain pills when I arrived at her house. Alright, alright, alllriiiightttt. <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> </div> <a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2015/01/hard-boiled-eggs-on-avocado-toast.html#more">Click for more »</a>http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2015/01/hard-boiled-eggs-on-avocado-toast.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-3621435941028782001Tue, 18 Nov 2014 01:11:00 +00002014-11-17T19:11:52.260-06:00GiveawayThe Ultimate Women's Gifts Giveaway!<br> It's that time of year again. You know, that time of year when you start to break out into a cold sweat, followed by a debilitating hot flash, both of which are sure signs that a full-blown panic has set in. There's no getting past it, it's time. To shop. For HER.<br> <br> <a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/11/the-utlimate-womens-gifts-giveaway.html#more">Click for more »</a>http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/11/the-utlimate-womens-gifts-giveaway.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-3176762808109422705Tue, 28 Oct 2014 22:46:00 +00002014-10-28T17:46:02.218-05:00GiveawayJump Start Your Holiday Shopping With A $300 Amazon GC or PayPal Cash Giveaway!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIcAbwKFVLOtrkDP4voz0ieJDOt_ALi4-3wHN-X0biU5mnvWW8p5bi5auvpNKOpmvWP1k57rmZCpKfWR4IQfG_GHJ-wL57rUyyJcAl3movB4uRMdT9ZwO76Zd2HevQTjZfSjtmebukI0Q/s1600/jumpstart+holiday+cash+giveaway.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIcAbwKFVLOtrkDP4voz0ieJDOt_ALi4-3wHN-X0biU5mnvWW8p5bi5auvpNKOpmvWP1k57rmZCpKfWR4IQfG_GHJ-wL57rUyyJcAl3movB4uRMdT9ZwO76Zd2HevQTjZfSjtmebukI0Q/s1600/jumpstart+holiday+cash+giveaway.png" height="640" width="486"></a></div> <br> <br> <br> Okay, now remain calm.<br> <br> I need to tell you something that may freak you out a little bit. Or, a lot.<br> <a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/10/holiday-shopping-amazon-paypal-giveaway.html#more">Click for more »</a>http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/10/holiday-shopping-amazon-paypal-giveaway.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-6382088988256324227Tue, 23 Sep 2014 20:55:00 +00002014-09-23T23:29:45.317-05:00Eat Light at Night with Salata <div class="MsoNormal"> Sometimes, living in Dallas can have its hardships. Seafood costs an arm and a leg, it’s beyond hot here in the summer (and in the spring and in the fall and…) and for us single gals, we have to deal with a type of man called the “$30,000 A Year Millionaire” which means, sure, he drives a Porsche but he doesn’t have any furniture in his (tiny) apartment. Sometimes however, the geography gods smile on us and we’re rewarded for living here. Like being located in one of only 3 states lucky enough to have locations of the deliciously yummy and healthy restaurant <a href="http://www.salata.com/" target="_blank">Salata</a> (don’t worry, more are coming!). If you’re not familiar with Salata, it’s a unique fast casual restaurant that specializes in healthy salads and wraps, 100% customized by YOU. How great does that sound?!?<o:p></o:p><br> <br> </div><a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/09/eat-light-at-night-with-salata.html#more">Click for more »</a>http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/09/eat-light-at-night-with-salata.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-1700516158386930685Tue, 02 Sep 2014 18:45:00 +00002015-02-07T06:31:33.090-06:00easyhealthyMexicanseafoodHealthy Blackened Shrimp Tacos with Avocado and Roasted Corn<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzmYZvTqDZYeM3wK8gRMgEoBY3MnYK69IS_i2ExLJwWXR7Vd5nW-W0E6I13RbTvGKEC_IlJ1RULXK3-fYH92pCJEkxWKH0t_wP_I4iyDlvMclp6T0q-BCOuE_-i_af7fZn3k8M1DNXITY/s1600/Blackened+Chicken+Tacos+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Healthy Blackened Shrimp Tacos with Avocado and Roasted Corn, And Lime Sauce" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzmYZvTqDZYeM3wK8gRMgEoBY3MnYK69IS_i2ExLJwWXR7Vd5nW-W0E6I13RbTvGKEC_IlJ1RULXK3-fYH92pCJEkxWKH0t_wP_I4iyDlvMclp6T0q-BCOuE_-i_af7fZn3k8M1DNXITY/s1600/Blackened+Chicken+Tacos+.jpg" height="640" title="Healthy Blackened Shrimp Tacos with Avocado and Roasted Corn, And Lime Sauce" width="568"></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blackened Shrimp Tacos</td></tr> </tbody></table> <div class="MsoNormal"> <b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It's Taco Tuesday!</span></i></b></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Was that a thing in your house when you were growing up? Alliteration-based menus? <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Macaroni Monday! <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Taco Tuesday! <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Wine Wednesday! (Okay, okay, so that’s a current thing in my house.)<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> It wasn't in my house. My mother, who thank goodness was, and still is, a very good cook, had a library of tried and true recipes that she rotated through on a pretty regular basis, most of which I ate happily, some of which I did not (I‘m looking at you, Stuffed Bell Peppers). Tacos, I’m sad to say, wouldn't start making an appearance in the rotation until I was a ‘tween, or as we called it back then, 10 years old.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> </div> <a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/09/blackened-shrimp-tacos-avocado-roasted-corn.html#more">Click for more »</a>http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/09/blackened-shrimp-tacos-avocado-roasted-corn.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-8810037070144333046Mon, 25 Aug 2014 13:21:00 +00002014-08-26T11:30:08.427-05:00GiveawayHomemade MondaysSouthernHomemade Mondays - The Best Pimento Cheese & A KitchenAid Mixer Giveaway<div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNlqPEUUET48aBjp7wD_HiDXb89OaEfLbHVAFwFess6oiBKYAXJJgCpGoAQSONph8fGOqoQo2sBVA7uWLjFAvxS80bBy0RHdH7R8eSZnpbIUY_Ohdl2V-aQP4gQuxDS_bI1o26xNzeziE/s1600/Homemade_Mondays.jpg"></div> </div> <br> <div class="MsoNormal"> </div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcQjESh03A4iP4wyiBNgp2rxT_K7mwT5l2hdE5ziTWRtq6UPOiaDvdDp4pY9OukzpNAwtULQTuCpHKUTHib0ImkJl41grZRbvr5wFedeIhHOW8BBhe6wpNJuvH2faX2W_1NJ2hU20xRdY/s1600/Pimento+Cheese.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcQjESh03A4iP4wyiBNgp2rxT_K7mwT5l2hdE5ziTWRtq6UPOiaDvdDp4pY9OukzpNAwtULQTuCpHKUTHib0ImkJl41grZRbvr5wFedeIhHOW8BBhe6wpNJuvH2faX2W_1NJ2hU20xRdY/s1600/Pimento+Cheese.jpg" height="428" width="640"></a></div> <br> <br> I really don’t know what I’m more excited about…yummy, creamy, tangy homemade Pimento Cheese or this awesome Kitchen Aid Mixer giveaway that I’m a part of. I mean, can you get any more Southern than pimento cheese? It really is a cornerstone of Southern cooking and everyone has their own little spin on it to make it theirs. Me, I forgo the usual pimentos and use piquillo peppers instead. They have so much more flavor than the regular old pimentos and add a slightly smoky punch that really sets this recipe apart.<br> <br> </div><a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/08/best-pimento-cheese-kitchen-aid-mixer-giveaway.html#more">Click for more »</a>http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/08/best-pimento-cheese-kitchen-aid-mixer-giveaway.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-3094323663863712732Thu, 07 Aug 2014 19:08:00 +00002014-08-07T14:08:05.001-05:00appetizerseasyvegetablesDouble Tomato Tart with Ricotta and Basil<div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx3BtGTbd7O8pENHk3k8M_gIMGEJYDWV_ckWT7BvkMJjL5ixl3nog2iK_n0-7p4vwuoysoY8NIsx-gknUrLVOMB4xJd5zvq2ItUS0gxipkQ5Yca9Zvqlf7qi6VHLvu0l6c_jezEMTqTLo/s1600/Tomato+&+Ricotta+Tart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Double Tomato Tart with Ricotta and Basil" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx3BtGTbd7O8pENHk3k8M_gIMGEJYDWV_ckWT7BvkMJjL5ixl3nog2iK_n0-7p4vwuoysoY8NIsx-gknUrLVOMB4xJd5zvq2ItUS0gxipkQ5Yca9Zvqlf7qi6VHLvu0l6c_jezEMTqTLo/s1600/Tomato+&+Ricotta+Tart.jpg" height="428" title="Double Tomato Tart with Ricotta and Basil" width="640" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Double Tomato Tart with Ricotta and Basil</td></tr> </tbody></table> <div class="MsoNormal"> How do you feel about tomatoes? I mean they’re kinda weird aren’t they? Firm on the outside, mushy in the middle.  I have to admit, I have a love-hate relationship with tomatoes.  Especially when served raw. For most of the year, it’s all hate. I eat around them in my salads (which drives my mother INSANE).  I pick them off my burgers.  I oust them from my club sandwiches and ignore them altogether when I’m at Subway.  But for some reason, heated tomatoes are a completely different story (I know, I’m weird).  A simple pasta sauce of roasted cherry tomatoes is a thing of pure joy in my world and two just-the-right-thickness slices are mandatory for my tuna melts.  </div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> In the summertime though, I will push a person out of my way to get my hands on the ripest, wackiest looking heirloom tomatoes.  I will devour those babies with gusto (and just a little salt and pepper).  YUM.  Eye-rolling-into-the-back-of-your-head YUM.  Plus, this time of the year they’ll be on everything I can reasonably put them on.  Burger? Check. Club sammie? Double check.  Even my deli sandwiches get the tomato treatment in the summer.  <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Enter this double tomato whammy of a tart.  I know it’s probably illegal to heat up heirlooms but I can’t help myself, especially with a tart like this.  This is the kinda tart that demands the best of everything.  Homemade sun-dried tomato pesto (the extra layer of tomatoness will knock your socks off). The very best tomatoes you can find.  Creamy, tangy homemade ricotta and some basil from that little plant in your windowsill you lovingly kept from croaking over the winter months.  Oh, and your best olive oil. You know, the one you hide from the kids, the one that’s way back in the back of the pantry by the health food (because they will NEVER look there).  Grab that.  All you need now is some puff pastry and you’re all set.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> (Of course if you want to use store-bought pesto and ricotta, that’s fine too.  But homemade is super easy. And super way-better than store bought. I’m just sayin’.)<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Double Tomato Tart with Ricotta and Basil</b></span><o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Makes 1 large tart<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <b><u>Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></u></b></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed but chilled<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> 1/3 cup sun-dried tomato pesto (<a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/08/perfect-sundried-tomato-pesto.html" target="_blank">easy homemade recipe here</a>.)<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> ½ cup ricotta (<a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/07/perfect-creamy-homemade-ricotta.html" target="_blank">homemade recipe here. super easy</a>.)<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> 6 large basil leaves, plus an additional few for garnish<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> 2-3 good size heirloom tomatoes, sliced (I do mine the thickness of what is normally on a burger)<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Kosher salt<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Freshly ground black pepper<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Good olive oil<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <b><u>Directions:<o:p></o:p></u></b></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Preheat oven to 400°.  Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Sprinkle your work surface lightly with flour and place the thawed sheet of puff pastry amongst the flour.  Carefully unfold the sheet and gently roll out the dough to add a couple of inches on each side, as well as to seal the seams from where the dough was folded.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> At this point, you can use the tip of a sharp knife to create a rim of puff pastry or you can skip that part and let the pastry rise naturally around the ingredients.  If you want to create the rim, just gently trace a rectangle about 1-inch from the pastry’s edge.  Either way, place the pastry on the prepared baking sheet.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> ***If your puff pastry has been out for more than a few minutes, or your kitchen is very warm, you should really place it back in the fridge for a few (10 or so) minutes.  The butter in the dough needs to stay chilled for maximum puffiness.  <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Once your dough is ready, smear the sun-dried tomato pesto on the dough, leaving the 1-inch rim around the edge.   Smear or dollop the ricotta on top of the pesto, making sure to distribute it evenly.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Tear most of the basil leaves into halves and tuck onto the ricotta and/or scatter all over the tart.  Add the sliced tomatoes, placing them in a single layer over the ricotta and pesto (a little overlap is okay).  Slice the rest of the basil into ribbons and set aside.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Bake for 15-20 minutes, basically until the pastry is puffed up around the side and golden brown.  Remove from the oven and drizzle immediately with the olive oil, just lightly. Sprinkle the basil ribbons on top.</div> <br /> <div class="MsoNormal"> <b>To serve: </b>Using the parchment paper as your guide, place the tart on a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.  Slice into large pieces and add a fresh salad and you've got the perfect light meal.  Slice into smaller sections and you've got a great summer appetizer. <o:p></o:p></div> http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/08/double-tomato-tart-with-ricotta-basil.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-698057267486913352Mon, 04 Aug 2014 13:31:00 +00002014-08-05T10:35:32.142-05:00Homemade MondaysHomemade Mondays - Perfect Tangy Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div>                 <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNlqPEUUET48aBjp7wD_HiDXb89OaEfLbHVAFwFess6oiBKYAXJJgCpGoAQSONph8fGOqoQo2sBVA7uWLjFAvxS80bBy0RHdH7R8eSZnpbIUY_Ohdl2V-aQP4gQuxDS_bI1o26xNzeziE/s1600/Homemade_Mondays.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNlqPEUUET48aBjp7wD_HiDXb89OaEfLbHVAFwFess6oiBKYAXJJgCpGoAQSONph8fGOqoQo2sBVA7uWLjFAvxS80bBy0RHdH7R8eSZnpbIUY_Ohdl2V-aQP4gQuxDS_bI1o26xNzeziE/s1600/Homemade_Mondays.jpg" /></a><br /> <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I’m not sure who invented pesto, but in my book, they’re a freaking genius.  Could anything be easier to make and even easier to use??  No matter what ingredients you use to make your pesto, it’s guaranteed to add a huge punch of flavor to any dish and this homemade sun-dried tomato pesto is no different.  It brings huge tomato flavor with the perfect balance of tang, spice and a hint of sweetness.<o:p></o:p></span></div> <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB33O4F64A3zV30FLSbtEHQp8K1ozxLADexy12z-zK3VFhSrqV8Wg94XsWuR82Dmjl5xClbBAn5I84lTTpe3aL3nzfsH2_2bNfCInsJ9lVifFtWOGjEP7IvhMdUrhO9zox5bjbaqhWei8/s1600/Sun-Dried+Tomato+Pesto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sun-dried Tomato Pesto Recipe" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB33O4F64A3zV30FLSbtEHQp8K1ozxLADexy12z-zK3VFhSrqV8Wg94XsWuR82Dmjl5xClbBAn5I84lTTpe3aL3nzfsH2_2bNfCInsJ9lVifFtWOGjEP7IvhMdUrhO9zox5bjbaqhWei8/s1600/Sun-Dried+Tomato+Pesto.jpg" height="458" title="Sun-dried Tomato Pesto Recipe" width="640" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tons o'tomato flavor in here.  </td></tr> </tbody></table> </span></div> <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto</b></div> <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Makes about 3-4 cups<o:p></o:p></span></div> <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <br /></div> <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <b><u><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Ingredients: <o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> 2 cups sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil<br /> 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese<br /> ½ cup oil (use the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes first and add plain olive oil to make up the difference, if needed)<br /> ½ cup fresh basil, rough chopped<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> ¼ cup fresh parsley, rough chopped<br /> 3 large cloves garlic, rough chopped<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> ½ cup pine nuts<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Healthy pinch of white sugar<br /> 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice<br /> Kosher salt, about ½ teaspoon<br /> Freshly ground black pepper, to taste<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <b><u>Directions:<o:p></o:p></u></b></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Throw it all in a blender or food processor and blend into a thick paste.  Add more olive oil as needed during blending.  The consistency should be thick but not overly chunky.  You want this spreadable but not too oily.</div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></div> http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/08/perfect-sundried-tomato-pesto.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-9189121184456786986Thu, 31 Jul 2014 20:36:00 +00002014-08-01T11:30:58.597-05:00Foodie Pen PalsJuly 2014 Foodie Pen Pal Reveal Day!<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"> Yay for FPP Reveal Day! And yay for FPP delivery day!!<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <o:p> </o:p> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggvg4zGg88KkGrQUejnXbJw-jVLnVCxMTnH9VDw0X_AHa4Df_wA9azW0zpF4S_EXvPZl9HpzZnONqTPnNufS752Mu5o0MFVrdgd2R24oqr54KrByKidd611g-ABxIFkOLtJLR4ihPoGr0/s1600/July+2014+FPP+Reveal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggvg4zGg88KkGrQUejnXbJw-jVLnVCxMTnH9VDw0X_AHa4Df_wA9azW0zpF4S_EXvPZl9HpzZnONqTPnNufS752Mu5o0MFVrdgd2R24oqr54KrByKidd611g-ABxIFkOLtJLR4ihPoGr0/s1600/July+2014+FPP+Reveal.jpg" height="428" width="640" /></a></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> This month I was paired with Monica, a blogger and yoga-lover over at <a href="http://www.theyogimovement.com/">www.theyogimovement.com</a>.  As a baby yoga-er, I am in complete awe of her blog and her passion and commitment to yoga.  She's truly inspiring!!</div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Monica is a vegan (my first FPP vegan!) so I had a great time selecting some local, some Texas and some other faves for her that fit her vegan lifestyle.  It was easier than I thought!!  Monica kept her healthy lifestyle in mind (which totally helps me keep off my recently lost lbs!!) when selecting the items for my FPP box – here’s what she sent:<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <b>Seaweed Snack </b>– Gosh I love these!  They are so tasty!!  Salty and crunchy – what more can you ask for in a snack??<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <b>Coconut Water </b>– I hear coconut water is super refreshing and a great thing to have on hand if one should be over-served by their favorite bartender.  Or at home.  Don’t judge.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <b>Hemp Hearts</b> – Monica recommends sprinkling these on yogurt for a healthy breakfast so I am definitely going to be giving that a try very soon! I’m always eager to find new ways to eat my fave yogurt!<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <b>Go Raw Cookies</b> – Chocolate and coconut and good for you?!? Someone pinch me!<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <b>Chai Yogi Tea</b> – I’ve never had anything chai before so I am very excited to get and try this tea!! <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Thanks so much Monica!!<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="MsoNormal"> If you would like to get a Foodie Pen Pal of your own, just head on over to <a href="http://www.theleangreenbean.com/foodie-penpals/" target="_blank">The Lean Green Bean</a> and let Lindsay know you’d like to join!  It’s super easy and super fun!<o:p></o:p></div> http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/07/july-2014-foodie-pen-pal-reveal-day.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-4770633479359716482Thu, 31 Jul 2014 12:00:00 +00002014-07-31T07:00:02.168-05:00breakfastbrunchThe Best Blueberry, Lemon & Ricotta Pancakes Ever<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdvk3QaswhwnocqjwYBBLvlEbC5uW9WLEtr3JqXc4A4rhSVZgXnNzfKMT4cJymyvy6Twa0RSlmOR662iAsiCKTsklCSgr-ERrBPdf1HJl9RL5NUIWYXIamkzwjkKtCjA7Vjtp-1rHno6w/s1600/Blueberry+Lemon+Ricotta+Pancakes+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Blueberry Lemon and Ricotta Pancakes" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdvk3QaswhwnocqjwYBBLvlEbC5uW9WLEtr3JqXc4A4rhSVZgXnNzfKMT4cJymyvy6Twa0RSlmOR662iAsiCKTsklCSgr-ERrBPdf1HJl9RL5NUIWYXIamkzwjkKtCjA7Vjtp-1rHno6w/s1600/Blueberry+Lemon+Ricotta+Pancakes+2.jpg" height="640" title="Blueberry Lemon and Ricotta Pancakes" width="428"></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tangy blueberries, zingy lemon and creamy ricotta are all crammed in that pancake.</td></tr> </tbody></table> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> My weekday breakfasts once consisted of eggs, a meat and some toasted carby bread goodness (working from home = awesome breakfast options) but now it’s an apple before my workout and a strawberry and chocolate whey protein shake after I’m done wheezing and <s>crying</s> panting from said workout. I usually stick with the protein shake on Saturdays too but Sundays….oh, on Sundays it is GAME ON, BREAKFAST. I want a fried meat (BACON!) alongside something that is made with butter and is chock-full of stick-to-my-ribs-goodness. I want a Breakfast that doesn’t give Lunch a chance to even <i>think</i> about getting any action. I think you feel me. </div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></div> <a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/07/the-best-blueberry-lemon-ricotta-pancakes.html#more">Click for more »</a>http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/07/the-best-blueberry-lemon-ricotta-pancakes.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-4313267442654964439Tue, 29 Jul 2014 01:55:00 +00002014-07-29T08:22:27.243-05:00basicseasyHomemade MondaysHomemade Mondays - Perfect Creamy Homemade Ricotta<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNlqPEUUET48aBjp7wD_HiDXb89OaEfLbHVAFwFess6oiBKYAXJJgCpGoAQSONph8fGOqoQo2sBVA7uWLjFAvxS80bBy0RHdH7R8eSZnpbIUY_Ohdl2V-aQP4gQuxDS_bI1o26xNzeziE/s1600/Homemade_Mondays.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNlqPEUUET48aBjp7wD_HiDXb89OaEfLbHVAFwFess6oiBKYAXJJgCpGoAQSONph8fGOqoQo2sBVA7uWLjFAvxS80bBy0RHdH7R8eSZnpbIUY_Ohdl2V-aQP4gQuxDS_bI1o26xNzeziE/s1600/Homemade_Mondays.jpg" height="305" width="640" /></a></div> <span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Welcome to Homemade Mondays! </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Each Monday I’m going to feature a new “homemade” recipe – something you probably normally buy at the grocery store but can easily make a better version at home for less than what store-bought stuff costs.  Don't worry, these won’t be super labor intensive projects that will take up your entire weekend.  They’ll be quick and easy delicious little projects that you can tackle in minutes or a just a couple of hours.   </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">This week, it's super easy, super creamy, dreamy, perfectly tangy, homemade ricotta.  It’s so very simple and once you try it, I promise you'll be hooked!  Like, eating-straight-off-a-spoon-hooked.  And believe me, there’s plenty of ways (other than the spoon idea) to devour this yumminess but more on that in the coming days…</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"></span></div> </div> <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD7uHNWwW5n49MbYf1kjCXgeBdvE7QdqLlhMlwbJ32OUkbqReARypEzjrRaKmSWGZg1Nh2WDbtOuEf_qcCzLGBeyLQIehgwsqqiPmRi6nWjA9U5aeWbniDrN-QOBsIKfnUv92UIRuDLBA/s1600/Perfect+Creamy+Homemade+Ricotta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD7uHNWwW5n49MbYf1kjCXgeBdvE7QdqLlhMlwbJ32OUkbqReARypEzjrRaKmSWGZg1Nh2WDbtOuEf_qcCzLGBeyLQIehgwsqqiPmRi6nWjA9U5aeWbniDrN-QOBsIKfnUv92UIRuDLBA/s1600/Perfect+Creamy+Homemade+Ricotta.jpg" height="428" width="640" /></a></div> <br /></div> <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Perfect Creamy Homemade Ricotta</b></span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div> <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Makes about 1 big healthy cup of ricotta<o:p></o:p></span></div> <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <br /></div> <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><b><u>Ingredients:</u></b><o:p></o:p></span></div> <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">3 ½ cups whole milk<br /> ½ cup heavy cream <br /> ½ teaspoon kosher salt or coarse sea salt<br /> 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice<o:p></o:p></span></div> <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <br /></div> <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><b><u>Directions:</u></b><o:p></o:p></span></div> <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Pour the milk, cream and salt into a large stainless steel or enameled pot. Using a candy or deep-fryer thermometer, bring the milk to a full boil over medium to medium-high until it reaches 190°F.  Gently stir the mixture occasionally to make sure it </span><span style="font-size: 15px;">doesn't</span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> scorch on the bottom. Remove the pot from heat and add the lemon juice, stirring it once, gently, just to combine. Let the pot sit undisturbed for 5 minutes.</span></span></div> <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <br /></div> <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><i>{NOTE ABOUT THE NEXT STEP:  Yes, you can pour the curds and the whey into the lined strainer all at once and save yourself the steps of scooping the curds but I really recommend the scoop method.  These little curds are delicate things and the weight of the whey being dumped on them as you pour can really smash them up and change their consistency.  But the world won’t end if you dump it so if you wanna, g’head.  But, if you are in a hurry for this ricotta to be dry enough to eat, the scoop method is the way to go.  You’ll cut the drying time in half with the scoop method.  If using the dump method, you’ll need at least an hour of drying time for spreadable and 1-2 hours for a really dry product.  On with the show...}</i><o:p></o:p></span></div> <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <br /> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYT1m-V47WasMrZnjmNPewtnFSb9Cl3uBoBdwVhFhdgiAU3YCgbJTBD1sWlIVZPDwVYEk9gb5zUTm3dE69obVEJnIOQcTOTTxDLrIhBjIAKTqpdq3qav1G0VKR_YEw10ETC5xhkeuzk10/s1600/Ricotta+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYT1m-V47WasMrZnjmNPewtnFSb9Cl3uBoBdwVhFhdgiAU3YCgbJTBD1sWlIVZPDwVYEk9gb5zUTm3dE69obVEJnIOQcTOTTxDLrIhBjIAKTqpdq3qav1G0VKR_YEw10ETC5xhkeuzk10/s1600/Ricotta+Collage.jpg" height="323" width="640" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whey.                                                                                           No whey!   </td></tr> </tbody></table> <span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Line a large strainer or colander with a few layers of cheesecloth or paper towels and place it over a large bowl. Using strainer or a slotted spoon (one with holes, not the big slits), gently scoop out the curds and place into the lined strainer.  Repeat the process until all you have left is the whey which you can toss or use it one of </span><a href="http://www.theprairiehomestead.com/2011/06/16-ways-to-use-your-whey.html" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;" target="_blank">these</a><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> clever ways.  Drain for a minimum of 30 minutes to get a spreadable ricotta and 1 hour for really dry ricotta.  If using paper towels, you might want to change them out about halfway through your drying time.</span></div> <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <br /></div> <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"> <span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Serve or use right away or place in an airtight container for later.  Keep in mind that this a really fresh product and won’t keep for a long time.  </span><span style="font-size: 15px;">You've</span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> got a week, max, to gobble up this creamy goodness.  But really, the shelf life of this stuff is irrelevant because it won’t last that long anyway.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div> http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/07/perfect-creamy-homemade-ricotta.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-5710140857581842984Thu, 24 Jul 2014 01:45:00 +00002014-07-24T08:04:07.450-05:00Cinco de MayoDallasMexicanvegetablesMexican Cilantro Lime Corn Crema (Elotes)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvfsKtygP14ipUDKdCY03qMEHH8kasjU-4ufkaO1VBCFL6pxRIYFM_5F47jFNrU1i1c7KMVrC0hOh-z7zcKfYmFa3Wt5WxRAnfhO0NJwdgRXWGI8Rh3pux-n8Zi1IDcHKpAzRjSqlvA0M/s1600/DFM+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mexican Cilantro Lime Corn Crema - Dallas Farmer's Market" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvfsKtygP14ipUDKdCY03qMEHH8kasjU-4ufkaO1VBCFL6pxRIYFM_5F47jFNrU1i1c7KMVrC0hOh-z7zcKfYmFa3Wt5WxRAnfhO0NJwdgRXWGI8Rh3pux-n8Zi1IDcHKpAzRjSqlvA0M/s1600/DFM+Collage.jpg" height="385" title="Mexican Cilantro Lime Corn Crema - Dallas Farmer's Market" width="640"></a></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br></span></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">One of my favorite things about summer in Dallas is getting back to weekend trips to the Dallas Farmers Market. It’s such a great way to laze away a Saturday or Sunday and still be productive. I love the scene: the sheds are packed full of vendors, shoppers, strollers and furry babies on leashes but somehow, there’s no chaos. Nobody’s in a rush. Just happy folks, nibbling on bits of juicy cantaloupe and wedges of bright red summer tomatoes as they browse the vendors’ stalls. There are local products like pickles, honey, soaps and jams and they’re all fabulous. <o:p></o:p></span></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Of the Must-Do’s at the DFM is hitting the roasted corn, or elotes, stand, just outside Shed 3. As soon as you get out of your car, follow your nose and you’ll end up in front of Paul’s Sweet Roasted Corn booth, complete with a ginormous metal barrel roaster, just cranking away to get those little ears of corn all nice and roasty toasty. <o:p></o:p></span></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">You can have your Mexican street corn on the cob or in a cup, plain or loaded. I take mine in a cup and loaded. What’s loaded you ask? Corn kernels soaked in butter – or really, a butter-like substance – and then topped with a healthy squeeze of mayo and a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese. Add some paprika and/or hot sauce, stir it all up and you’re in business. Clearly, no one is losing weight while eating this dish but hey, it’s summer and we all know that calories don’t count during the summer.<o:p></o:p></span></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4dohbfEjXxLZwDDgrQTL5nut3EGIiQfDv9QOdVELUGbZQMr_eTIY3vtcz8D_h0BLXRmdiFabnnkIIsFRniVlyiqmnpYzylw0jl77ZyUQPicjQSY9FOLK-_wzgplvxzLIwSlaqI9OuQvg/s1600/Elotes+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Mexican Cilantro Lime Corn Crema - Dallas Farmer's Market" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4dohbfEjXxLZwDDgrQTL5nut3EGIiQfDv9QOdVELUGbZQMr_eTIY3vtcz8D_h0BLXRmdiFabnnkIIsFRniVlyiqmnpYzylw0jl77ZyUQPicjQSY9FOLK-_wzgplvxzLIwSlaqI9OuQvg/s1600/Elotes+collage.jpg" height="640" title="Mexican Cilantro Lime Corn Crema - Dallas Farmer's Market" width="640"></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">WARNING: That is not butter in that blue squeeze container. It's Parkay. For real.</td></tr> </tbody></table> <span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">In an effort to be able to eat more of this tasty dish without gaining 1000lbs, I’ve tweaked the recipe, and although it’s not winning any Healthiest Dish awards, it’s MUCH better and, I think, has even more flavor than the original. The tanginess of the lime and bite of the cilantro really the sweetness of the corn just pop in your mouth! Of course, this is a great side dish for anything Mexican or Tex-Mex, but it’s also perfect with steak, grilled chicken or seafood. </span><br> <span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><br></span> <span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">Or just in a cup.</span></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div> <a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/07/mexican-cilantro-lime-corn-crema-elotes.html#more">Click for more »</a>http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/07/mexican-cilantro-lime-corn-crema-elotes.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-6193972442459712103Mon, 30 Jun 2014 21:55:00 +00002014-07-01T06:33:31.958-05:00cookiesdessertsOMG Heath Bar Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <br> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMN1tKcg7ueKyUCAxJ8ng_QQMxBli7rJYOd_KD9sPIiNsDm0wWUx7TbLMC5AdmX2GHafyUGr-VZawlEjzmbS8vNre-SmU3fceGkeGuQLIuoy5sNmGEPDhOAcQQjRIC7XKgoieyuBiVBwg/s1600/OMG+Heath+Bar+Cookies+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="OMG Heath Bar Cookies" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMN1tKcg7ueKyUCAxJ8ng_QQMxBli7rJYOd_KD9sPIiNsDm0wWUx7TbLMC5AdmX2GHafyUGr-VZawlEjzmbS8vNre-SmU3fceGkeGuQLIuoy5sNmGEPDhOAcQQjRIC7XKgoieyuBiVBwg/s1600/OMG+Heath+Bar+Cookies+5.jpg" height="640" title="OMG Heath Bar Cookies" width="480"></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Resistance Is Futile. </td></tr> </tbody></table> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> The. Diet. Is. Over.</div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> CAN I GET AN AMEN?!?</div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Whew. It’s been 9 weeks of no sugar, no carbs (except the good for you veggie kind), no bread (!!), no booze (!!!!!) and very little fat. But considering I’m 35 lbs lighter and *this* close to fitting into some jeans that I haven’t worn since 2002 (shutituprightNOW!), it was totally worth it. Plus, my skin looks ah-maze-zing, my nails aren't splitting and tearing like crazy and I haven’t seen my hair look this shiny (without help) for a long time. Totally, totally worth it. <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> And since the diet is over, I thought I’d celebrate with some cookies! No, not really. Well, okay, yes. Kinda.<br> <br> </div><a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/06/omg-heath-bar-cookies.html#more">Click for more »</a>http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/06/omg-heath-bar-cookies.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-6375205145413407824Mon, 30 Jun 2014 13:33:00 +00002014-06-30T08:34:20.019-05:00Foodie Pen PalsJune Foodie Pen Pal Reveal Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-9gjHTEV2xocHBauJDYptR3ve86pXs3q2bJBZG9tMBdPWfjTxWPaST9Tf3XEwVwU5Dw8GIRcLL4yYAbfy1vQPJpmPM7fbck4UELqRoMz2jGEObjtcpud730S-C8X0ZBQH8GB_cAJ7fkU/s1600/June+2014+FPP+Reveal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-9gjHTEV2xocHBauJDYptR3ve86pXs3q2bJBZG9tMBdPWfjTxWPaST9Tf3XEwVwU5Dw8GIRcLL4yYAbfy1vQPJpmPM7fbck4UELqRoMz2jGEObjtcpud730S-C8X0ZBQH8GB_cAJ7fkU/s1600/June+2014+FPP+Reveal.jpg" height="400" width="300"></a></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Happy Monday, Kids!</div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> It’s always good to start off the week – even a short holiday one (YAY!) – with something fun, isn’t it? Sure it is! And believe me, Foodie Pen Pals is nothing but fun. I love hitting up my local farmer’s markets and specialty stores to shop for my FPP (truth time: it’s usually a little “one for them, one for me” kind of a shopping trip!) and using my limited packaging skills to upcycle some old containers into shiny new holders for homemade goodies.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> This month I was I was matched up with the Queen Bean herself, Lindsay, the host of FPP on her blog The Lean Green Bean!! Lindsay has a great focus on the healthy side of things and I wanted to make sure her box honored her commitment to good health but, with a couple of treats thrown in for balance. ;) You can check out my box to Lindsay here: <a href="http://www.theleangreenbean.com/june-foodie-penpals-reveal-day-2/" target="_blank">http://www.theleangreenbean.com/june-foodie-penpals-reveal-day-2/</a><o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> I was so excited when my goodie box from Lindsay arrived - it really is like having a birthday every month! She really went above and beyond - making sure to find items that not only were peanut-free but were created in nut-free environments. So very sweet. Here’s what she sent:<o:p></o:p><br> <br> </div><a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/06/june-foodie-pen-pal-reveal-day.html#more">Click for more »</a>http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/06/june-foodie-pen-pal-reveal-day.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-3857359511881604022Mon, 16 Jun 2014 23:18:00 +00002014-06-17T10:13:06.754-05:00chickeneasyfruithealthysalsa Soy-Citrus Grilled Chicken with Summer Fruit Salsa<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXOc784xZIZhzaYG6BRDgIO1frleR7bSJ5VGa3ow0K-CfMSL14E1uFYQL0rIGy_zkwF6jwVU7K4LLDDl2bDHcktF1Tql-6l7olZ5txYMXbkJQzjNMrwTTTj9LgLFy8VmApR6XWMPC9zLw/s1600/Citrus-Marinated+Grilled+Chicken+with+Summer+Fruit+Salsa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt=" Soy-Citrus Grilled Chicken with Summer Fruit Salsa" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXOc784xZIZhzaYG6BRDgIO1frleR7bSJ5VGa3ow0K-CfMSL14E1uFYQL0rIGy_zkwF6jwVU7K4LLDDl2bDHcktF1Tql-6l7olZ5txYMXbkJQzjNMrwTTTj9LgLFy8VmApR6XWMPC9zLw/s1600/Citrus-Marinated+Grilled+Chicken+with+Summer+Fruit+Salsa.jpg" height="320" title=" Soy-Citrus Grilled Chicken with Summer Fruit Salsa" width="400"></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> <i>Soy-Citrus Grilled Chicken with Summer Fruit Salsa</i></td></tr> </tbody></table> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br> I seriously have no idea how 2 weeks have just flown by without a post – I suck. In my *ahem* defense, I will say that it has been stupidly cloudy here in Dallas for the better part of those 2 weeks, thus making photography an impossibility at my house. I have one set of windows that gets usable natural light and when the sun is gone, so is the photo op. Now you know why my photos are a little, um, bor-ring. It’s the lack of natural light. Oh, and I have no idea what I’m doing when it comes to food photography, but really, I’m certain it’s all the lighting’s fault.</div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> But yesterday there was sunshine. <br> </div><a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/06/soy-citrus-grilled-chicken-with-summer.html#more">Click for more »</a>http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/06/soy-citrus-grilled-chicken-with-summer.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-5305983425343984893Sat, 31 May 2014 20:28:00 +00002014-05-31T15:28:05.107-05:00Foodie Pen PalsMay Foodie Pen Pal Reveal!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5v_VJfrVYra_BSHIfSEvHz8PN7q6Kwd-yNf1K3d-L4unjkekjMgj34ailDKqMIwAXfVIKYhCERBzsVqnRnKSnLmgPR7JWxhQhs3XRv6RUPA-EqQtcagJJp3mOGhAAms6bn_NVqEgSZhk/s1600/May+Foodie+Pen+Pal+Reveal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5v_VJfrVYra_BSHIfSEvHz8PN7q6Kwd-yNf1K3d-L4unjkekjMgj34ailDKqMIwAXfVIKYhCERBzsVqnRnKSnLmgPR7JWxhQhs3XRv6RUPA-EqQtcagJJp3mOGhAAms6bn_NVqEgSZhk/s1600/May+Foodie+Pen+Pal+Reveal.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div> <br /><div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Foodie Pen Pals – I’ve missed you!!<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> It’s been awhile since I participated in the FPP program and I am so thrilled to be back swapping goodies with folks all across the country!  <span style="background: white; color: #242424; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">If you’re not familiar with the Foodie Pen Pal program hosted by<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><a href="http://www.theleangreenbean.com/foodie-penpals/"><span style="background: white; color: #1b7b2f; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Lindsay over at The Lean Green Bean</span></a>, <span style="background: white; color: #242424; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">you should really head over and check it out.  It’s a great way to meet new people and sample yummy treats from all over.</span><o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> This month I was paired with Kathy, a sweetheart of a mom and wife from Evansville, Indiana.  She must have done some recon on my blog because she sent me the most fabulous FPP package with all my favorite goodies!  Here’s the scoop:<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <b>Grippos BBQ Potato Chips</b> – Y’all.  BBQ Chips.  B-B-Q!  C-H-I-P-S! In case y’all don’t know, BBQ chips are one of my favorite things on the planet.   I lurrrrvvvve them so very much. And having had Grippos once before, they have quickly become one of my favorite brands of my favorite chips.  The bag popped open in the box and some very brave chip soldiers died so that others could make my belly happy, and for that, I thank them. </div> <br /> <div class="MsoNormal"> <b>Dark Chocolate with Caramel Fudge & Sea Salt</b> – These are currently hidden and on lockdown.  From MYSELF.  I’m actually rationing them because they are about the best damn things I’ve ever eaten.  I’m not sure who the first person was to realize the awesomeness of adding sea salt to sweet treats but I’m oh-so-grateful I’d like to give them my firstborn child.  (Okay, not really, I actually like him.  A lot.)<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <b>Apple Butter</b> – Anything with “butter” in its name can’t be a bad thing and one the most delicious butters I can think of is the apple kind.  On a warm, toasted English Muffin?  Please.  There’s nothing better.  This little jar of yummy came from the same farm where Kathy got the chocolates.  It’s like 2 miles from her house.  If I were lived there, I’d make it part of my morning jogging route.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <b>Spiced Apple Cider Jelly</b> – More apple stuff! Yay!! This stuff is so fantastic.  It’s from a farm out by Kathy’s sister’s house and it is fan-freaking-tastic.  I put it on a cinnamon-raisin bagel from the bagel shop around the corner and bliss out.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <b>Ski </b>– This popular soft drink is flavored with lemon and orange and is such a hit in Indiana that Kathy says a local pizzeria actually made a pizza topped with Grippos chips and a drizzle of concentrated Ski! I haven’t tried this yet but I have a couple of recipes that call for a citrus flavored drink to be used and this is the one I’ll be using!<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Kathy doesn't have a blog but sent along a sweet note about the box I sent her for me to include here.  Here’s Kathy!:<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"> <i><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Hi Lauren.  I hope it's not too late for me to report back to you on my foodie pen pal box!  We have enjoyed all of the treats you sent us.  For several evenings after I received your box, I was able to relax with a cup of hot tea in my new mug with the snicker duffins.  A few nights ago I grilled chicken breasts with the apricot sauce and it was delicious!  I have also been snacking on the dried peaches, yum!  The toffee candy bar was probably my favorite.  I LOVE dark chocolate!  My son especially loves the cinnamon sugar grinder.  I make him cinnamon toast almost every morning before we head off to "school" (daycare).  And my newest guilty pleasure is sneaking spoonfuls of cookie butter in the pantry closet so no one will see me.  That can be our little secret, haha!  Thanks again for all of the thought you put into our box.  We really appreciate it!<o:p></o:p></span></i></div> <div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"> <i><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Kathy<o:p></o:p></span></i></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="MsoNormal"> Thanks Kathy! And thanks again to Lindsay at The Lean Green Bean for hosting such an awesome swap!!<o:p></o:p></div> http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/05/may-foodie-pen-pal-reveal.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-5400031072595527287Thu, 22 May 2014 02:18:00 +00002014-05-21T21:18:30.645-05:00chickencomfort foodhealthyLiquid Amino DietHealthy Pan-Seared Chicken with Garlicky Cauliflower Mash & Wild Mushroom Ragu<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6h1YJjU6rFuOWuJoL8tbdwYHGOjPh2AfCMyxPwTvXDIrzZusRhdkGy5e8dChNZf2Zv7iMIS9D_Hp9M4mubxPCgkO2UgKsUxCQC8WAW8zgzPVb58F5r_bRy6gx_a254c0sRp-MT-kzYTY/s1600/Pan-Seared+Chicken+with+Creamy+Cauliflower+Mash+&+Wild+Mushroom+Ragu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Healthy Pan-Seared Chicken with Garlicky Cauliflower Mash & Wild Mushroom Ragu" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6h1YJjU6rFuOWuJoL8tbdwYHGOjPh2AfCMyxPwTvXDIrzZusRhdkGy5e8dChNZf2Zv7iMIS9D_Hp9M4mubxPCgkO2UgKsUxCQC8WAW8zgzPVb58F5r_bRy6gx_a254c0sRp-MT-kzYTY/s1600/Pan-Seared+Chicken+with+Creamy+Cauliflower+Mash+&+Wild+Mushroom+Ragu.jpg" height="400" title="Healthy Pan-Seared Chicken with Garlicky Cauliflower Mash & Wild Mushroom Ragu" width="300"></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Healthy Pan-Seared Chicken with Garlicky Cauliflower Mash & Wild Mushroom Ragu</td></tr> </tbody></table> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I LOVE CHICKEN. I really never tire of it. I know that some people (read as: my Dad) groan every time another dish using boneless, skinless breasts is put in front of them but not me. I think it’s one of the best blank canvases a cook can have to experiment with sauces and any other flavor-bringers. And it plays so well with veggies and starches, how can you not love a chicken breast? </div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> If it’s cooked to death and dried out, that’s how. And unfortunately, when it comes to healthy cooking, juicy chicken tends to be something that gets sacrificed to the Diet Gods.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Usually chicken breasts can be kept juicy by cooking them with the skin on, or using shameless amounts of butter (oh, butter…I miss you…), so how can you make sure you’ll get juicy chicken AND keep it healthy? A few well-intentioned bangs with a meat tenderizer or heavy skillet will solve that problem perfectly. Pounding the chicken breast into thin cutlets and cooking them quickly over major heat practically gives you a juicy chicken insurance policy.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> And to keep the rest of the meal healthy, the standard dose of cream cheese in the mashed cauliflower has been replaced with cottage cheese. Yes, COTTAGE CHEESE. Trust me, once it’s blended with the cauliflower, I swear you can’t even tell it was cottage cheese. The mushroom ragu usually has a good-sized glub of heavy cream but really, all it takes is a little white wine and some chicken stock reduced down and you get a very healthy – and satisfying - sauce.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> So how’s that for a diet/healthy meal for ya? Tender chicken served over creamy, garlicky mashed cauliflower and topped with a light, earthy mushroom sauce. <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Sacrifice-smacrifice. </div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></div> <a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/05/healthy-pan-seared-chicken-with.html#more">Click for more »</a>http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/05/healthy-pan-seared-chicken-with.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-1243756994140853944Wed, 14 May 2014 22:47:00 +00002014-05-16T13:25:05.773-05:00appetizershealthyMexicanturkeyTurkey & Veggie Stuffed Baby Bell Peppers<div class="MsoNormal"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieQh32PkVu6AzRsKUeOz9Dpy1KJuoad3PfB26DNu6eiW8RNo8wM-I4-YqGHUvnZTyflD-fa21yGwPz3EOsBmZkV4iD3qK6UxFQAw14DnWGuO9006i5kbCgggRs01YcwOoMu1jPkxrh44E/s1600/Turkey+&+Veggie+Stuffed+Baby+Bell+Peppers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Healthy Turkey & Veggie Stuffed Baby Bell Peppers" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieQh32PkVu6AzRsKUeOz9Dpy1KJuoad3PfB26DNu6eiW8RNo8wM-I4-YqGHUvnZTyflD-fa21yGwPz3EOsBmZkV4iD3qK6UxFQAw14DnWGuO9006i5kbCgggRs01YcwOoMu1jPkxrh44E/s1600/Turkey+&+Veggie+Stuffed+Baby+Bell+Peppers.jpg" height="640" title="Healthy Turkey & Veggie Stuffed Baby Bell Peppers" width="480"></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Healthy Turkey & Veggie Stuffed Baby Bell Peppers</td></tr> </tbody></table> <br> Isn't funny how our tastes can change as we <s>age</s> <s>grow up</s> move through life? When I was younger, heck, even as recently as 10 years ago, I couldn't stand bell peppers. Blech. No way. So no matter how delicious these <h>turkey & veggie stuffed bell peppers</h> are (and they ARE), I wouldn't have even tried them back then. I’m so glad I’ve changed by pepper hatin’ ways (Except for green bells. Not going to happen.) because I love Love LOVE this recipe. The sweetness of the <h>yellow, orange and red bell peppers</h> are the perfect complement to the meatiness that the <h>turkey, zucchini and mushrooms bring to the party a</h>nd the salsa verde gives it just the right amount of kick to wake up your taste buds.</div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> This recipe doesn't need cheese but certainly, you could add it if you wanted to. And let’s be honest, if it weren't for being on a cheese-free diet, I probably would have done it, so g’head. </div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></div> <a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/05/turkey-veggie-stuffed-baby-bell-peppers.html#more">Click for more »</a>http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/05/turkey-veggie-stuffed-baby-bell-peppers.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-4434612780902390144Mon, 05 May 2014 13:57:00 +00002014-05-05T08:59:16.869-05:00Cinco de MayoMexicanCinco de Mayo Recipe Round-Up!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvomX1-UWJgPzrh1lbeDfbvp5uhCC4FCIqYK9QGdTPLd9CHg3ZdYbpG7wmj3mKA9IiJeZIfolzLshQx3eD8kbo47A1C5PU0qERDgqg9EkwVYSHRDq36snM4i3kLmNKoa_CkRl9xXLwDkI/s1600/Cinco+de+Mayo+Collage+2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvomX1-UWJgPzrh1lbeDfbvp5uhCC4FCIqYK9QGdTPLd9CHg3ZdYbpG7wmj3mKA9IiJeZIfolzLshQx3eD8kbo47A1C5PU0qERDgqg9EkwVYSHRDq36snM4i3kLmNKoa_CkRl9xXLwDkI/s1600/Cinco+de+Mayo+Collage+2014.jpg" height="400" width="400"></span></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Cinco de Mayo Recipes</span><br> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br></span> <br> <div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"> <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Happy Cinco de Mayo!</span></b><span style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div> <div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"> <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br></span></div> <div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"> <div class="MsoNormal"> <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner, there’s never a wrong time for the bright flavors of Mexico (or Tex-Mex, in my case!). Here are some yummy ideas to get your mouth watering!</span><o:p></o:p></div> </div></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/05/cinco-de-mayo-recipe-round-up.html#more">Click for more »</a>http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/05/cinco-de-mayo-recipe-round-up.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-7688590707352614150Sat, 03 May 2014 14:31:00 +00002014-05-14T17:51:48.145-05:00chickenhealthifiedhealthyMexicanHealthy Blackened Chicken Fajitas With Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYcv1KXtQB0jHVb8IoV0np4omPhlejS2AIfyAQpNaZqfAuh5mFw3ODBfkdkBqZtjl5x2oQ0hhw-puWl0I-lQM7THWryIaV7mk5Y9qvcyWxYU19ezd-5KnzDQTK4hJU4nJZLlX_PfAUASA/s1600/Chicken+Fajita+Bowl+With+Cauliflower+Cilantro+Lime+Rice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Healthy Blackened Chicken Fajitas with Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYcv1KXtQB0jHVb8IoV0np4omPhlejS2AIfyAQpNaZqfAuh5mFw3ODBfkdkBqZtjl5x2oQ0hhw-puWl0I-lQM7THWryIaV7mk5Y9qvcyWxYU19ezd-5KnzDQTK4hJU4nJZLlX_PfAUASA/s1600/Chicken+Fajita+Bowl+With+Cauliflower+Cilantro+Lime+Rice.jpg" height="640" title="Healthy Blackened Chicken Fajitas with Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice" width="480"></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Healthy Blackened Chicken Fajitas With Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice</td></tr> </tbody></table> <div class="MsoNormal"> Confession time.</div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> I’ve always hated running. <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> I’ve taken classes, I’ve run alone, I’ve run with friends and I’ve hated every second of it (except spending quality time with my friends of course.). Maybe this hatred comes have always being <b><u>forced</u></b> to run, starting way back in middle school where we <i>had</i> to run in gym class. Then in high school, we <i>had</i> to run in volleyball workouts and most recently, we <i>had</i> to run during fitness boot camp. Maybe it’s just my inner child being a brat, but I don’t do well with “have to”, especially when I. Don’t. Wanna. <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> So when I began a Couch-To-5k program the other week (no one seems to make a Bed-To-5k program, I checked), most of my friends assumed I’d been body-snatched and replaced with a pod person. Totally understandable. <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> I was already power walking about 3.5 miles every morning and doing really well with it. There’s a gorgeous, long, wide street very near my house that is lined with the most beautiful grand historical homes. It's loaded with trees and has smooth pavement so it’s quite popular with the neighborhood runners, walkers and cyclists. <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> One of these runners, a girl with a long blonde ponytail, is totally <s>to blame</s> the inspiration for me trying my hand at (unforced) running. Every week I see this girl and she waves to me with the biggest smile on her face. And not that cursory wave that most strangers give each other, either. This girl WAVES. She waves to me like I owe her money or something. One morning I actually thought, “Damn. I wonder if I could ever feel like <i>that</i> about running.” <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> So I’m trying it. So far so good. I’m not blonde-ponytail-girl-happy about it yet but I don’t hate it anymore and I think that’s a bouncy step in the right direction.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> No matter what your stance is on running (but if you do love it, please comment and convince me that I will too one day!), this yummy and healthy dish will keep you light on your toes. Right now I’m so addicted to using cauliflower instead of rice. I really don’t miss the rice at all. This healthified version of blackening the chicken lets you use less oil while still achieving maximum flavor. A cast iron skillet is really the best pan to use for this dish but if you don’t have one, any heavy skillet will do. </div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></div> <a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/05/healthy-blackened-chicken-fajitas-with.html#more">Click for more »</a>http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/05/healthy-blackened-chicken-fajitas-with.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-2762746519043271472Tue, 29 Apr 2014 13:44:00 +00002014-05-08T08:25:56.684-05:00healthyLiquid Amino Dietno-carbseafoodHealthy Shrimp Piccata with Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles)<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XkM1Hvk2Wo6T0P2CcNogo1y__xcdC1R7lGKH0_jXrTCk2zjSjuK1O1qD4VkzcYktGxEKt-aZ07YWL23X6zo9KisLAvj_1CBwKacOkyMNk67nyRCHILlvLAM7Qvq0LDlAQNgJjdZ0aqo/s1600/Shrimp+Piccata+with+Zoodles+(Zucchini+Noodles).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Healthy Shrimp Piccata with Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles)" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XkM1Hvk2Wo6T0P2CcNogo1y__xcdC1R7lGKH0_jXrTCk2zjSjuK1O1qD4VkzcYktGxEKt-aZ07YWL23X6zo9KisLAvj_1CBwKacOkyMNk67nyRCHILlvLAM7Qvq0LDlAQNgJjdZ0aqo/s1600/Shrimp+Piccata+with+Zoodles+(Zucchini+Noodles).jpg" height="640" title="Healthy Shrimp Piccata with Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles)" width="491"></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Healthy and delicious Shrimp Scampi with Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles)</td></tr> </tbody></table> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Ahh, Spring. When the flowers bloom, love is in the air and I suddenly can’t get enough of the salads I practically ran away from during the winter months. The longer days and warmer weather practically demand that I put away the pasta, cheese and bready goodness and eat light. Grrr.</div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> So, in an effort to knock off a couple of pounds and get ready for swimsuit season (EEEK!), I’ll be interrupting our creamy, crispy, buttery, regularly scheduled programming to bring you…<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> …wait for it…<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Healthy food.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> I know, I know. Normally my idea of eating healthy is just cutting the recipe in half (POOF! Half the calories gone! Brilliant!) but this is for real. Real healthy food. Real healthy food with flavor and deliciousness and all the things that make you forget you’re eating healthy food. <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> For real. Pinkie swear.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> One of the ways to bring in flavor and keep out the fat is to incorporate interesting and maybe some new-to-you spices, like the pink peppercorns in this recipe. If you haven't used them before, I highly recommend picking some up! They don't have the same bite as black peppercorns but have a lighter, fruitier, well-rounded spice to them. They are the perfect for the lighter, healthier dishes of summer!</div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> So let’s start with something easy…fresh zucchini turned into healthy little noodles topped with plump, juicy shrimp and a delicious lemon-caper sauce. Light, bright, filling but healthy! <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Bring on summer! Bring on swimsu…err…Bring on summer! </div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></div> <a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/04/healthy-shrimp-piccata-with-zoodles.html#more">Click for more »</a>http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/04/healthy-shrimp-piccata-with-zoodles.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-6929140223988042612Thu, 24 Apr 2014 20:03:00 +00002014-05-07T13:50:42.425-05:00asianseafoodSweet & Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br></div> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh76AOQ3tJGQby0AgNLxwXSOxDczL-3xY7WTFZcpyMZXH-rgPDkMnRauDnRth6dbgDuQvgXfIA02A4pbK2mObi5qeJFHnf7bfzXkMa9KLhdu74Qvu_ntRp0SwRfOlJD0mA2EpOJAktrvio/s1600/Bang+Bang+Shrimp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sweet & Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh76AOQ3tJGQby0AgNLxwXSOxDczL-3xY7WTFZcpyMZXH-rgPDkMnRauDnRth6dbgDuQvgXfIA02A4pbK2mObi5qeJFHnf7bfzXkMa9KLhdu74Qvu_ntRp0SwRfOlJD0mA2EpOJAktrvio/s1600/Bang+Bang+Shrimp.jpg" height="400" title="Sweet & Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp" width="395"></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet & Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp</td></tr> </tbody></table> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> I’m so blessed to live so close to my parents. Not only is great to be able to see them whenever I want, but they make the absolute BEST food guinea pigs. <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> My mom and I have the same food loves: vegetables, seafood and rich decadent sauces. My dad, well let’s just say that he’s a meat and potatoes man all the way. Nothing fancy, thank you very much. So when I make something he would label “weird” and but then raves about it, I know I’ve done something really amazing. This is one of those dishes. He loves it. I mean LOVES it. If I kept him feed on a diet of steaks, twice baked potatoes, Eggs Benedict and these Bang Bang Shrimp, he’d never complain. His cholesterol level might but he wouldn't.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> If you're not familiar with this dish, lemme break it down for you: Tender, crispy shrimp are tossed in a creamy, spicy & sweet sauce that will make your mouth so very happy. You can tone down (or up!) the sweetness and/or spiciness of the sauce as much as you want by adjusting the amount of the Sweet Thai Chili sauce and the Sriracha. We like ours on the spicy side so there's quite a bit of Sriracha going on in ours. I've made the recipe for a "middle-of-the-road" kind of spicy.<br> <br> These can be served as an appetizer but for us, it's the main course with some brown jasmine rice (I'm such a fan of it) and some egg rolls. Who needs takeout?!?<br> <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> <br></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> (I’ve never had the real version of these little gems but I know they are wildly popular and so are the copycat versions. Since I have no idea what the restaurant ones taste like, I took the fundamentals and made it my own. If you make these and have tried the real thing, I’d LOVE to hear how they compare!)</div> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> </div> <a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/04/im-soblessed-to-live-so-close-to-my.html#more">Click for more »</a>http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/04/im-soblessed-to-live-so-close-to-my.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-5857741572219420157Sun, 20 Apr 2014 13:41:00 +00002015-02-06T06:16:35.749-06:00breakfastbrunchclassiceggs benedictsaucesHam & Asparagus Eggs Benedict with Lightened Hollandaise Sauce<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFpqayFzofKjp6S1-mWQ1iiG3skIqBZnPyu_3R51D7eqJWrtIdjStWC6KWGtp0HziBRlWN8_od_gHtpA7ptj_HBJrAkn2d076wYlRJthlo8KgTDHbsUmScCeK0mur65922Evfhb__Dm1U/s1600/Ham+&+Asparagus+Eggs+Benedict.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ham & Asparagus Eggs Benedict with Lightened Hollandaise Sauce" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFpqayFzofKjp6S1-mWQ1iiG3skIqBZnPyu_3R51D7eqJWrtIdjStWC6KWGtp0HziBRlWN8_od_gHtpA7ptj_HBJrAkn2d076wYlRJthlo8KgTDHbsUmScCeK0mur65922Evfhb__Dm1U/s1600/Ham+&+Asparagus+Eggs+Benedict.jpg" height="400" title="Ham & Asparagus Eggs Benedict with Lightened Hollandaise Sauce" width="347"></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ham & Asparagus Eggs Benedict with Lightened Hollandaise Sauce</td></tr> </tbody></table> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> This past Wednesday was National Eggs Benedict Day. WEDNESDAY. Far be it from me to tell Those Who Schedule National Food Holidays how to do their jobs but, c’mon, give that day the R-E-S-P-E-C-T it deserves and put it on a Sunday. Maybe Saturday, but really, Sunday.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> So, seeing as how there’s a plethora of eggs in my house (thanks, Easter Bunny!), I decided to <s>correctly</s> belatedly celebrate National Eggs Benny Day this weekend instead. <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> And since it’s finally Spring, asparagus is everywhere and getting cheaper each day, I had the urge to do something a little fancy with my EB this time. I know that National EB Day is an American holiday, but I went a little French with this one. Buttery, flaky croissants (whole grain, what a surprise to find them at the grocery store!), juicy ham off the bone and crispy roasted asparagus make a delicious bed for perfectly poached eggs and fluffy, lemony Hollandaise sauce. <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Whatever its nationality, this meal is the perfect way to celebrate Spring, National Eggs Benedict Day and Easter. Respect. </div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></div> <a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/04/ham-asparagus-eggs-benedict.html#more">Click for more »</a>http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/04/ham-asparagus-eggs-benedict.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3249515289817000317.post-8444179883980676288Sat, 12 Apr 2014 15:01:00 +00002014-05-07T13:54:42.816-05:00breakfastbrunchcomfort foodsandwichesHappy National Grilled Cheese Day! Breakfast Grilled Cheese, anyone?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br></div> <div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: #ffc000; font-family: "Throw My Hands Up in the Air"; font-size: 42.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-themecolor: accent4;">Happy <o:p></o:p></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: #ffc000; font-family: "Throw My Hands Up in the Air"; font-size: 42.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-themecolor: accent4;">National Grilled Cheese Day!<o:p></o:p></span></div> <div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcuOQqyANzFiHIjN8hU1K2mZLn0b_CBUU6CN0pMjQFUcaAJwQOQ9dw0JTyrp5gzy2kElJ2rPQyK-jFBpNe-tStp4oLEkHgMP63srT3UOViVNiTAm4i9tmc4ZRFYNdsc2k0EAG4Ux003dQ/s1600/Breakfast+Grilled+Cheese.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Breakfast Grilled Cheese & Bacon Sandwich" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcuOQqyANzFiHIjN8hU1K2mZLn0b_CBUU6CN0pMjQFUcaAJwQOQ9dw0JTyrp5gzy2kElJ2rPQyK-jFBpNe-tStp4oLEkHgMP63srT3UOViVNiTAm4i9tmc4ZRFYNdsc2k0EAG4Ux003dQ/s1600/Breakfast+Grilled+Cheese.jpg" height="400" title="Breakfast Grilled Cheese & Bacon Sandwich" width="361"></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast Grilled Cheese & Bacon Sandwich</td></tr> </tbody></table> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Have you ever seen a National Food holiday calendar?? That thing is ridiculous. You name the food/snack/beverage, there’s a “holiday” for it. Some of them are a head-scratcher, like National Cheeseball Day and National Raisin and Spice Bar Day. Maybe if National Cheeseball Day was in December I could understand it but in April? C’mon, Cheeseball Lobbyists, forcing nut-covered cheese-like balls and logs on us during the holiday season isn't enough? Leave Spring alone. </div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> Some of them however, just make sense: National Vodka Day (Oct. 4<sup>th</sup>, mark it down.) and National Wine Day (Feb. 18<sup>th</sup>) and of course National Grilled Cheese Day. (What seems to be missing is National Wine and Cheese Day, or what’s known as Every Day in my house.) National Grilled Cheese Month is April (EVERY. SINGLE. YEAR.), so it just makes sense that today, April 12<sup>th</sup>, is National Grilled Cheese Day. <o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> When it comes to grilled cheese, I tend to flip between classic style (white bread, butter and Kraft Singles) and tricked-up style (homemade bread, pesto, spinach, goat cheese and fancy meats) but I love them all, no matter what they've got going on. There’s something so perfectly comforting about a grilled cheese sandwich – toasted bready goodness wrapped lovingly around ooey-gooey cheese. In fact, it’s such a perfect food that I think you should go ahead and start your day with one. After all, breakfast IS the most important meal of the day.<o:p></o:p></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> If eggs aren't your thing but spicy is, you’ll love my <a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2012/05/jalapeno-popper-grilled-cheese-sandwich.html" target="_blank">Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese</a> sandwich. But if eggs AND spicy are your things then you should really have both. Maybe just not at the same time. Maybe. </div> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> <o:p></o:p></div> <a href="http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/04/happy-national-grilled-cheese-day-have.html#more">Click for more »</a>http://fromeverydaytogourmet.blogspot.com/2014/04/happy-national-grilled-cheese-day-have.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Lauren)4