Good Clean Fun

Plant-Based Protein Powder

2012-02-29T11:35:00.001-05:00

i cannot wait for spring! warm, sunny, 60 degree F days make me long for it even more. same with rainy, dark, dreary days like today. the only consolation is we need rain for spring flowers and green grass.

my favorite part of spring is a great pedicure and flip flops! my feet long to peek out and feel the sunshine after 4-5 long months of hiding in my shearling-lined ugg slippers. but little things like seeing plants with buds and daffodil greens peeking up out of the ground give me hope that spring is around the corner and make me crave some of my favorite warm weather treats like ice cream and smoothies.

i love smoothies - especially those with fresh fruit, a healthy dose of spinach (don't knock it till you've tried it - it's even kid approved) and a lacing of protein powder. smoothies are a great breakfast alternative or a replenishing after-workout treat.

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i used to live and die by my whipped vanilla cream dessert protein powder but i didn't really love the ingredient list. i recently found (via Teri from a foodie stays fit) this plant-based, vegan, soy-free, gluten-free, yet actually great tasting protein powder (i know, i was skeptical at first too).

the plant fusion vanilla bean tastes creamy and lends itself well to adding other flavors (like banana, blueberry, or strawberry) without over-powering the smoothie. it gets the whopping 21g of protein per serving from peas, brown rice, and artichokes.

check out the ingredient list:

anyway, just thought you all might be interested in a healthy, wholesome, protein powder. i got mine on amazon. oh, and hurry up spring!

and for the record, i bought plantfusion on my own and the opinions stated are my own. i was not compensated for anything and i'm positive plantfusion has no earthly ideas who i am.

9 Years Ago

2012-02-28T19:00:00.000-05:00

i met this man 3,285 nights ago.

i'd like to specifically thank Melissa for celebrating her birthday at the ever classy mr. days in clarendon, va and the clarendon ballroom for being closed because of a private party.

my life is 1,000x better tonight than it was 9 years ago and i feel like this

every single day - the happiest/luckiest/most blessed woman in the world . . .

8.19.

National Pancake Day

2012-02-28T16:58:00.003-05:00

today is national pancake day (thanks for the heads up Mim:)

why don't you celebrate with one of my two favorite pancakes recipes:

Apple and Banana Stuffed Pancakes
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Blueberry Strudel Pancakes
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happy pancaking!

Balsamic Shrimp, Spinach, and Gorgonzola Quesadillas

2012-02-28T08:00:00.000-05:00

quesadillas are a classic staple on kids menus. usually just cheese melted in a folded over tortilla. not quite what i would call a gourmet meal.

but move over little ones, these quesadillas are all grown up! these shrimp quesadillas get a tasty twist with the addition of gorgonzola, caramelized onions, baby spinach and a drizzle of balsamic reduction.

i really only need two words to aptly describe this concoction - crazy good!

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the bleu cheese melts perfectly into the shrimp and onions and the baby spinach wilts just enough. the balsamic reduction drizzled over the quesadilla really is the icing on the cake. it adds a richness and tang and sends this dish over the top.

this is perfect for lunch or add a side salad or roasted broccoli for a tasty dinner treat.

Balsamic Shrimp, Spinach, and Gorgonzola Quesadillas
serves 2

2 tbs olive oil, divided
1 tsp minced garlic
12 extra-large shrimp
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
salt and pepper
1/3 cup crumbled gorgonzola
2 cup baby spinach
2 whole wheat tortillas
3/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/2 tsp unsalted butter

heat balsamic vinegar in small saucepan over medium heat. bring to a boil and reduce heat to medium-low. let simmer until thick and reduced. when thick and syrupy, add butter and stir to combine.

meanwhile, heat 1 tbs olive oil in skillet over medium-high heat. add garlic and shrimp and cook 1-2 minutes a side until just cooked through. remove shrimp from pan and set aside. add remaining tablespoon of oil to skillet and add sliced onion. sprinkle with a little salt and pepper and reduce heat to medium and cook onion, stirring often, until softened and golden brown. remove onion from pan and set aside.

place tortilla on skillet and place 6 shrimp on half of tortilla. top with half of the onions and sprinkle with half of gorgonzola. top with 1 cup of spinach and fold tortilla in half. when underside is browned, flip tortilla and brown on other side. repeat with second tortilla and remaining shrimp, onions, gorgonzola, and spinach.

remove from skillet and cut into 4 pieces with a pizza cutter. plate and drizzle with balsamic reduction. serve immediately.

Birthday Cake Oreo Chunk Cookies

2012-02-27T19:08:00.001-05:00

february is a big birthday month in our house. it starts with my sister-in-law on the 15th followed closely by my college roomie on the 16th, my cousin on the 21st, my niece on the 22nd, and then the month ends with another college roomie on the 27th. whew!

turns out oreo is celebrating a big birthday soon too - march 6th to be exact. that's right, oreo turns the big 100 this year and has put out a special edition oreo cookie - the birthday cake oreo. they actually taste like birthday cake and even have sprinkles in the oreo cream.

i decided to put a spin on the oreo cream chip cookies i made a while back. i used the birthday cake oreos, vanilla pudding, extra sprinkles, and funfetti cake mix. the result is a delicious cake tasting cookie. i made a batch to give to the last february birthday - Meliss. i think it's safe to say she liked them.

these are perfect for birthday gift or birthday party - or any day of the week really!

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Birthday Cake Oreo Cookies
makes 4 dozen

1 1/2 sticks butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
1 (3 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
3/4 cup funfetti cake mix
2 eggs
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
1 tsp baking soda
1 1/4 cups whole wheat pastry flour
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
4 tbs sprinkles
15 oreo birthday cake cookies, broken into pieces

preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. add pudding and cake mix and beat until blended. add eggs, one at a time and vanilla and beat until combined.

in a separate bowl, whisk together flours, baking soda, salt, and sprinkles. slowly add dry mixture to wet mixture and beat until just combined. stir in broken oreo cookies.

using a small cookie scoop, scoop cookie dough onto parchment lined baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes (9 was the perfect number for me). the bottoms should be just starting to brown. let cool slightly before transferring to wire rack. let cookies cool completely and store in airtight container.

Thought for Sunday

2012-02-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

dear sunday,

Source: joannagoddard.blogspot.com via Page @ Good Clean Fun on Pinterest

sincerely,
GoodCleanFun

Special Delivery

2012-02-25T10:00:00.000-05:00

a package just arrived and i cannot wait to use the contents!

i finally broke down and bought a second kitchen aid stand mixer bowl (i could have used this around christmas time) and a beater blade. this mixer attachment is supposed to scrape down the bowl as it mixes. it's like a beater and a spatula in one!

i also happened to spot these at wegmans yesterday . . . i'm thinking they are going to find their way into a baked good this weekend.

to the kitchen!

Breakfast Pizza

2012-02-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

weekends are supposed to be more relaxed and promise you unlimited time. yes, of course you can go for a long run, make a big sit-down breakfast, tackle that big project, read a book, take a long nap, vacuum the whole house, have a relaxing bubble bath, make a 5-course dinner for friends complete with cocktails and dessert, watch that netflix movie, and still be in bed by 10pm for a good nights sleep, right?

okay, sometimes those promises fall a little short. i always say at a minimum, a successful weekend includes at least one nap. luckily, i can now add a great homemade breakfast to that list.

this breakfast pizza is definitely weekend worthy - it's even brunch company worthy. i used a pre-made thin pizza crust but with a little forethought, you could make your own whole wheat pizza crust. i love this easy recipe.

the best part about this recipe is it comes together really quickly. in about the time it takes to drink a cup of coffee, the pizza is ready to eat. i pre-baked the crust for 5 minutes and while it was baking, i browned some already cooked chicken sausage, cooked up some shallots, and shredded some cheese. when the crust came out, i tossed on the chopped chicken sausage and cooked shallots, added some baby spinach and sprinkled on the shredded cheese. finally, i cracked 4 eggs onto the top and cooked the pizza a couple more minutes - just until the cheese is melted and the eggs are cooked.

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as soon as the pizza came out of the oven, i sliced it up and sprinkled chopped cherry tomatoes on each slice. of course, you can add whatever toppings you have on hand for a customized breakfast pizza. kids will love helping with assembly too. pick up some ingredients today so you can surprise your loved ones with a pizza this weekend.

Breakfast Pizza
serves 4-6

1 whole wheat pizza crust, rolled out thinly
2-3 chicken sausage links, cooked
1 tbs olive oil
4 shallots
4 cups baby spinach
2 cups shredded cheese (i used sharp cheddar)
4-5 whole eggs
1 cup chopped tomatoes

preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

roll out pizza dough on a parchment lined baking sheet. bake for 5 minutes.

meanwhile, brown sausage and then cook shallots over medium heat with olive oil until shallots are browned and tender.

top pre-baked pizza crust with sausage, shallots, cheese, and baby spinach. crack eggs over top and bake for 5-10 more minutes until eggs are set.

remove from oven and let sit for a minute. slice and top with chopped tomatoes.

The "It" List - February 24th

2012-02-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday!

Take some time to enjoy these amazing links!

good clean fun has the key to getting your favorite Girl Scout cookies all year long - a recipe to the oft sought after Samosas! They look amazing! (find good clean fun on twitter!)
here and now finds the perfect mint colored jeans. She will clue you in on how she found them and compare other options out there for you. These are so cute! (find here and now on twitter!)
gs lillian scored these darling cat-eye sunglasses for a steal! Check out where! (find gs lillian on twitter!)
sweetie pie style is obsessed with color blocked sandals for spring. I am loving these styles too and can't wait to add a pair to my wardrobe. Check out her picks! (find sweetie pie style on twitter!)
rachael really is looking just adorbs in double stripes! I love this look for spring.... (find rachael really on twitter!)
along abbey road pairs a pink blazer with a leopard print top! I'm absolutely in love with this combo! (find along abbey road on twitter!)
the capital barbie rounds up the best kitten heels. I love this shoe silhouette, it's perfect for a busy lady! (find the capital barbie on twitter!)
one hundred inspirations recreates a classic and bold Olivia Palermo look for less!
the tiemann girls have another round up of Austin eats - for all you gals heading to the Texas Style Council. Check out their picks and make note! (found the tiemann girls on twitter!)
live a lot sports some super cute patterned tights! A great way to add some fun to your outfit as the winter comes to a close. (find live a lot on twitter!)
suze wears clothes has three great outfits featuring your favorite boots - but I love that these outfits have a hint of spring in them. The best of both seasons! (find suze wears clothes on twitter!)

National Margarita Day

2012-02-22T19:50:00.000-05:00

i have to apologize . . . something slipped by me today that never should have. today is national margarita day and i am just finding out now, at 7:45pm.

the oversight will never happen again.

feel free to celebrate tonight with one of these recipes. if you are out of time and tequila, like me, feel free to celebrate tomorrow. i will be. it will be our secret.

Grapefruit Margaritas
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Strawberry Margaritas
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Margarita Cupcakes
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Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps

2012-02-22T08:00:00.000-05:00

the chicken lettuce wraps are my favorite appetizer at p.f. changs. me along with the rest of america i am guessing. there is something about the dark, rich flavor of the warm chicken in the cool, crisp lettuce that is simply irresistible.

here's the thing though - i'm a little weird. i don't like how messy they are to eat. i seem to end up with sauce running down my arms after the first bite of the wrap. i also prefer romaine over iceberg because iceberg has the nutritional value of a glass of water. the other thing i don't really love is the crispy rice noodle-things. yes, that's the technical term. maybe i'm the only one, but i don't love the flavor. they taste like styrofoam-y to me.

so i made a couple of changes to the dish. i added brown rice to the actual mixture and omitted the crispy bedding. plus, i chopped lettuce and served the chicken mixture on top of the chopped lettuce.

i still served it in the lettuce cups for E, but i enjoyed not making a mess all over myself. hoisin is the key ingredient here but i think the chili garlic sauce is just as important. it adds just enough spice to the chicken.

this recipe is actually my third attempt at replicating p.f. changs wraps. the first two just weren't quite right so i kept tweaking it until it tasted right. this version is the best yet. E even requested them again.

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Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps
makes 8 lettuce wraps

1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced small
3 tbs vegetable oil
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
2 teaspoons garlic, minced
1/2 cup green onions, chopped
1 cup shiitake mushrooms
1 (8 ounce) can water chestnuts
2 cups cooked brown basmati rice
romaine lettuce leaves, washed and taken off the head (whole or chopped)

sauce ingredients:
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sherry wine or red wine
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon agave nectar
1 tsp chinese chili garlic sauce
2 teaspoons cornstarch

heat wok over medium-high heat. add 2 tbs vegetable oil and add chopped chicken. saute until cooked through and remove from wok. set aside on plate.

meanwhile, whisk together ingredients for sauce in a medium bowl and set aside.

add remaining oil, ginger, and garlic. cook, stirring occasionally for 1 minute. add green onions and mushrooms and cook 2-3 minutes. add water chestnuts, rice, and chicken back to the wok. stir well to combine. pour sauce over mixture and cook, stirring occasionally until sauce thickens.

serve immediately by spooning into lettuce cups or over chopped lettuce.

Homemade Samoas

2012-02-21T07:56:00.000-05:00

there is a cookie i cannot resist. it's hard to find, sold seasonably by little girls in cute uniforms and is ridiculously over-priced.

my name is page and i'm addicted to samoas.

the main problem with these cookies is not the fact that they cost $4.00 for 15 cookies (i can justify the money "for a good cause") or the fact that they are all sugar, carbs, and fat and go directly to my butt without hesitation (it gives me a reason to exercise). no, the main problem is they are only available certain times of the year.

i cannot live most of the year without these sweet, caramel, coconut, chocolate pieces of heaven. what are the girl scouts trying to do to the rest of the population anyway? they get you hooked on delicious cookies and then only allow you to eat them at certain times. of course i could stock up and freeze them so i have a constant supply. the only problem with that is that i would have a constant supply. it's a catch-22. if i had them available all the time, i would eat them all the time and my behind really can't handle that.

my solution? try and make them at home.

i am here with a successful, delicious homemade recipe. the good news is now i can have samoas anytime i want. the other good news is that these are relatively labor intensive. these are not quick to whip up. why is that good news? let's just say it's good news for my aforementioned derriere.

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note: i made them as squares to save a little time and effort. if you are super inclined, you can cut them into circles and then cut out centers out so they look exactly like samoa cookies. if so, good for you:)

Homemade Samoa Cookies
adapted from the little epicurean

Shortbread Cookie Ingredients:
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla paste
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbs whole milk

preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

in the bowl of an electric mixer, cream together butter and sugar for 2-3 minutes. add vanilla paste and mix to combine. in a separate bowl, whisk together flours, baking powder, baking soda and salt. slowly add flour mixture to butter mixture on low speed. mix until combined. add milk and mix until dough forms. remove and divide into 2 logs. on a lightly floured silpat (or parchment paper), roll out dough into a rectangle about 1/4" thick. repeat with second batch of dough, trimming edges to form a rectangle. place each rectangle on a baking sheet and bake for 12-13 minutes until edges are lightly browned.

remove from oven and let cool completely.

Caramel Ingredients:
1 cup granulated sugar
5 Tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
pinch of salt
3 cups sweetened shredded coconut

lower oven to 325 degrees F.

line baking sheet with parchment paper or silpat and spread coconut out. bake for 5 minutes then stir well and repeat for 5 minute increments, stirring until coconut is evenly lightly browned. remove from oven a let cool.

meanwhile, add sugar to a medium saucepan and let it melt over medium-high heat. once sugar has begun to melt, reduce heat to medium. don't stir the sugar, just let it melt, reduce heat to medium-low if it browns too much. once sugar is completely liquified, whisk in butter. when butter is completely melted, remove pan from heat and whisk in cream (be careful, the mixture will bubble up when the cream is added). continue to whisk until caramel is smooth and thick. fold in toasted coconut and spread mixture evenly onto both shortbread pieces.

after shortbread is covered with coconut and caramel mixture, gently cut into squares using a pizza cutter. let cool completely.

Chocolate Drizzle Ingredients:
10 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips

melt half of chocolate chips in microwave safe bowl for 30 second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until smooth and melted. spread a thin layer of chocolate onto bottom of shortbread cookies and place them caramel side down on cooling racks until chocolate hardens. once set, turn cookies over.

melt remaining half of chocolate and drizzle onto caramel sides of cookies. let chocolate harden, then serve. store in airtight container.

DIY Jewelry Display

2012-02-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

a couple of months ago, i decided to hang most of my necklaces in our dressing room. i figured if i can see them, i might actually wear them more often. turns out that philosophy is true. i am not a big necklace wearer (i prefer bracelets or fun earrings) but i do have some fun necklaces that were hidden away in my jewelry box.

i got the 2 rows of hooks at lowes (similar jewelry hooks) in their storage and organization section for under $10 a piece. not only does seeing them remind me to wear them more often, i also think it looks pretty.

while getting dressed the other day i thought, "why don't i display my earrings too?" i remembered my sister-in-law had her earrings hanging on an old mesh flat strainer of sorts and i figured i could make something like that. and, as it turns out, i had all the supplies i needed to do this project.

you will need:
1 medium frame (backing and glass removed)
wire mesh (i used old gutter guards i found in rolls at my grandfather's house)
wire cutters
staple gun
staples
painting tape (optional)

i simply cut two strips of the wire mesh and stapled it to the back of the frame (bring sure to pull it taught as i went). then i trimmed the edges with the wire cutters. (you can tell i have already re-purposed this frame once before by spray painting it white.)

the edges ended up being a little sharp and even though i knew it would be hanging on the wall, i decided to put a little frog tape around the edges to keep my from cutting my finger open while hanging the frame.

of course you will also need a hammer and nail to hang the finished product and some pretty earrings to hang.

note: hoops don't really work in the set-up, but i found most every other kind of earrings do. for post earrings, i just pulled the earring backing away from the earring a bit and it hung right on the wire.

Thought for Sunday

2012-02-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

words to live by . . .

Source: ruxandra-soare.blogspot.com via Ruxandra on Pinterest

GoodCleanFun Pinterest Board

2012-02-17T13:22:00.000-05:00

for those of you interested, i have created a GoodCleanFun Recipe Board on pinterest. you can find my favorite and the most popular GCF recipes all on one board on pinterest.

check it out here.

and in the spirit of favorite recipes, here are the top 5 most viewed recipes this year so far:

champagne cake pops

moo goo gai pan

almond brie chicken

best balsamic vinaigrette

whipped cosmopolitan

The "It" List - February 17th

2012-02-17T07:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday ladies!

Take some time to enjoy these links!

gs lillian is inspired by coral and aqua for spring... stop by to check out this gorgeous color combination and you will be inspired too! (check out gs lillian on twitter!)
the capital barbie shares this chocolate cream cheese cupcake recipe - as if we haven't had enough chocolate this week! But this looks too good to pass up! (find the capital barbie on twitter!)
rachael really found the perfect sweater - don't you love it when that happens? Check out where she found it and how she styles it! (find rachael really on twitter!)
suze wears clothes lays out three fun outfits featuring a simple red top... I especially like this dressed-up/dressed-down look featuring classic All-Stars! (find suze wears clothes on twitter!)
stay in the lines styles up a perfect winter outfit featuring a great pair of red skinny jeans - see how she styles them and what her perfect winter day is! (find stay in the lines on twitter!)
good clean fun makes champagne cake pops and they look amazing and delicious! Check out her handy work and the recipe! (find good clean fun on twitter!)
here and now snags the uber-popular leopard print skinnies that are all the rage these days for a great price! See her secret source! (find here and now on twitter!)
live a lot somehow finds a way to look amazing when she isn't feeling great - I think the cozy scarf and sunglasses have something to do with it!
sweetie pie style has gorgeous garden inspiration... I know it's just what I need on these gloomy winter days. Check out her finds and get inspired to start working in your own garden very soon! (find sweetie pie style on twitter!)
along abbey road is looking stylish yet casual in simple gingham - stop by her blog to commiserate with her "first world blogger problems." We've all been there! (find along abbey road on twitter!)
the tiemann girls round up their favorite eats in Austin - just in time for Texas Style Council. I am for sure taking notes here! (find the tiemann girls on twitter!)
100 inspirations features an Ali Larter look for less (and lesser!) - check out how you can get the bold red look for yourself!

the IT list is produced weekly by jill of good life, for information on how you can be involved, click here!

Almond Brie Chicken

2012-02-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

i made this chicken a while ago using the same ingredients but a different method. the first time i made this, i layered the layered the chicken breast with apricot preserves, brie, and almonds. it was good. the flavor was amazing. but the brie melted all over the place.

this time i wised up. i stuffed the chicken with the brie, brushed it with the apricot and rolled it in chopped almonds. and dang, it was good. and i mean good.

this dish is going into the regular rotation. that is if i actually had a regular rotation. being a food blogger will do that to you. i feel like i am always trying something new. but seriously, i will be making this again.

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p.s. i served this with roasted garlic broccoli. it was an excellent pairing.

Almond Brie Chicken
serves 4

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin
1 cup sliced almonds, finely ground
2 tbs apricot preserves
1 tsp dijon mustard
4 slices brie cheese
2 tbs olive oil

preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

in a small bowl, combine apricot and dijon. set aside. roll thin chicken around slice of brie cheese. secure with toothpicks. brush outside of chicken with apricot dijon mixture. roll chicken in ground almonds. repeat with all 4 chicken breasts.

heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. sear chicken on all sides and transfer to a foil lined baking pan. remove toothpicks and bake for 20 minutes until chicken has cooked through.

serve immediately.

Project Pinterest - Met, Wed, Live

2012-02-15T07:00:00.000-05:00

this is me most days:

Source: lemontreecreations.blogspot.com via Jarica on Pinterest

however, not today. in an effort to actually do some of the ideas i have pinned to my pinterest boards, here is another of my project pinterest finished products.

Source: kayladanelle.blogspot.com via Page @ Good Clean Fun on Pinterest

i saw this idea (and there are many others like it out there) and wanted to do a map version of where E and i met (clarendon, va), where we got married (anna maria island, fl), and where we now live (hunt valley, md).

i just found maps on google maps and used a glue pen to write the words and sprinkled them with glitter (my favorite medium:).

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this is actually part of a larger pinterest project to do a wall of framed items. i am in the process of spray painting mismatched frames white and filling them with things that make me smile. stay tuned for the finished product.

in the meantime, why don't you follow me on pinterest and share some projects you have successfully completed after being inspired by something you have pinned.

Honey Bourbon Pork

2012-02-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

i realize i was kind of hard on february yesterday. it is certainly not february's fault that it's boring, cold, and despite being the shortest month, it seems to drag by s-l-o-w-l-y.

i think the best remedy for february is to make as much chocolate as possible. it also helps to push it along by planning some fun weekend activities. this past weekend our supper club had a wonderful valentine-esq dinner. it's certain that good company, delicious food, some wine, and a little chocolate will make even the worst month seem infinitely better.

part of the fun of our dinners is planning the menu. this past weekend the stars aligned and we had a homerun of a menu.

honey bourbon pork tenderloin

twice baked potatoes

garlic haricot verts with caramelized shallots

vanilla ice cream crêpes with chocolate sauce, strawberries, and whipped cream

i'll be sharing one recipe at a time, but first up - honey bourbon pork tenderloin. i actually first made this with chicken and it was so good i knew it would be just as amazing on pork. they key here is to marinate the tenderloin for at least 2 hours (overnight is best), but don't toss the marinade. on a whim, i decided to reduce the marinade down until is was a thick sauce and drizzle it over the meat.

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best. decision. ever. this increased the flavor tenfold and had us wanting to lick the platter. again, if you aren't a pork fan, use chicken breasts of thighs. your mouth will thank you. make this now. seriously.

Honey Bourbon Pork Tenderloin
serves 4

1 pork tenderloin (roughly 1 lb)
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup honey
1/2 cup bourbon
2 tbs dried minced onion
3/4 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp ground ginger

combine all ingredients in a large ziploc bag and let marinate at least 2 hours or overnight.

preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

remove pork from marinade. heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. quickly sear on all sides of pork and transfer to a foil-lined baking dish. bake until internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F.

meanwhile, pour marinade into medium pot and bring to a boil over medium heat. continue to boil until mixture has reduced down to 1/3 to 1/4 its original volume. the mixture should have thickened significantly. reduce to low to keep warm.

remove pork from oven, cover loosely with foil and let sit at least 5 minutes before cutting. serve pork drizzled with reduced sauce.

Package

2012-02-13T20:25:00.002-05:00

today, i came home to a package at my front door. there is something so wonderful about a parcel, isn't there? especially when it's something free.

let me back up. around christmas, L told me that she sent all her calphalon pans back and that calphalon was going to honor their lifetime warranty and send her all new replacements. immediately, a light bulb went off in my head.

i have had my calphalon pans for over 7 years now. we received a set for our wedding and they have been well used. i have been careful to always use the proper utensils on them and i never put them in the dishwasher. basically, i followed the warranty directions to a "T". despite my best care efforts the non-stick surface still started to peel and wear off. of course i have heard all the horror stories about how bad the non-stick substance is once it starts peeling off i have felt weird about using them. i immediately emailed calphalon and then packed my set up (minus the lids) and sent them off to calphalon. i did have to pay for shipping but it was just $16.21. i figured that was a small price to pay if i did in fact get all new pots and pans.

3 weeks later i received an email saying calphalon had processed my warranty request and was sending 2 packages my way. truthfully, i wasn't really sure if they were sending me new pans or sending me my old pans back. they did not indicate in the email if my pot/pan problems were covered under their lifetime warranty.

sure enough when i opened the package, i had brand new items! just this simple fact makes me want to buy calphalon from now on. you can't beat their warranty. if the pans do not hold up as promised, they will replace them. of course they need to be properly cared for but you can read all about the particulars here. that means if you take proper care of your pots and pans, you should only have to buy one set for life!

i will say, in the future, i plan on buying stainless pans to avoid the non-stick debacle all together. in fact, i happen to have my eye on this beauty. but certain things, like eggs, a just easier cooked in a small, non-stick skillet.

note: calphalon did not in any way compensate me for this post. i'm sure calphalon has no idea who i am. i just wanted to give credit where credit is due. calphalon really does honor their lifetime warranty.

Cream Cheese Nutella Heart Cookies

2012-02-13T07:30:00.000-05:00

february is kind of a horrible month, isn't it? it's still cold and dark and everything still looks dead and barren. truthfully, february is when i am ready for spring, sunshine, and longer days. all i really want to do is escape to a tropical destination and return in early april.

i think valentine's day was created to make us feel better about february. people knew that restlessness would be an issue so "they" (whoever they are) threw the universe a bone and invented a holiday to make us feel warm and fuzzy inside.

"put a holiday dedicated to love in february, it needs some help" they say.

"people will look at each other with googly eyes and eat themselves into a

chocolate coma and they won't wake up until spring.

all those in favor say aye, all those opposed . . ."

and thus, valentine's day was put into effect to reduce unrest and increase morale. truthfully, the only other thing february has going for it is that's it's the shortest month.

okay enough about cold, dreary february - let's overindulge in sugar, shall we?

i simply make large sugar cookie hearts and frosted them with cream cheese icing and nutella. a simple half a strawberry makes for a perfect heart in the center. (i will say, you could always use pre-made sugar cookie dough or sugar cookie bag mix to make this super easy. of course i am not condoning such things, i'm just saying . . . )

i recommend feeding these to your valentine. then, let's count down the days until spring. 38 days and counting . . .

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Cream Cheese Nutella Heart Cookies
makes 8 large hearts

3/4 C sugar
2 sticks salted butter, cold, cubed
1 egg
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/2 tsp pure almond extract
2 C unbleached, all-purpose flour
1 C whole wheat pastry flour
2 tsp baking powder

preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

cream together butter and sugar in a stand mixer. (it will not be the light and fluffy creamed butter and sugar you are used to with cookies because you are using cold butter, but make sure the butter and sugar are combined.) add egg and extracts.

in a separate bowl, whisk together flours and baking powder. add flour mixture to butter mixture a little bit at a time, scraping down bowl as needed. once all of flour is added, make sure all flour has been incorporated.

roll dough out on floured surface about 1/4" thick. cut out using cookie cutters and place on parchment lined baking sheets. refrigerate sheet pans for 5-10 minutes before baking.

bake for 10 minutes. remove from oven and let cool completely on wire racks.

when cookies are completely cool, pipe with nutella and cream cheese icing. place a halved strawberry in the center. enjoy!

Cream Cheese Icing

8 oz cream cheese, cold
5 tbs unsalted butter, softened
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
2 tsp vanilla extract

cream together butter and cream cheese 4-5 minutes on medium speed until light and fluffy. slowly add in powdered sugar on low speed. whip on medium speed for 3 minutes. add vanilla extract and blend thoroughly.

store unused icing in airtight container in refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Thought for Sunday

2012-02-12T08:00:00.000-05:00

in case you need a little push today . . .

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Giveaway Winner

2012-02-11T14:12:00.001-05:00

we have a winner! the valentine's giveaway winner is:

sarah Feb 6, 2012 04:52 PM

I'm with you! I'll be home relaxing too!

sarah, please email me (goodcleanfuneating@gmail.com) your mailing address and your package will be on its way!

in other news, i have been craving chocolate like crazy. need proof? here are my most recent pins on pinterest:

Source: jasonandshawnda.com via Page @ Good Clean Fun on Pinterest

Source: kitchenconfidante.com via Page @ Good Clean Fun on Pinterest

Source: howsweeteats.com via Page @ Good Clean Fun on Pinterest

Source: annies-eats.com via Page @ Good Clean Fun on Pinterest

Source: thelittleepicurean.com via Page @ Good Clean Fun onPinterest

i better get to the kitchen . . .

12 Resolutions Project: Champagne Cake Pops

2012-02-10T12:18:00.004-05:00

it's month two of my 12 resolutions of 2012 project. the short story is i have challenged myself to make one thing that i have been intimidated to make every month this year. the long story, should you choose to read it, is here.

in january, i made marshmallows and was pleasantly surprised how easy it was. it was messy - i ended up with powdered sugar everywhere - but they were so easy that i am pretty sure i will never buy marshmallows again.

this month, i tackled cake pops. these have been popping up everywhere recently. apparently cake pops are the new cupcakes. heck, starbucks even has them. i scoured ~~the entire internet~~ pinterest for a recipe that struck my fancy and (surprise, surprise) i settled on champagne cake pops. (yes, i used prosecco so either will work).

i have actually made these twice already. once for a birthday celebration for my mom and once to take to a wine tasting party. they both turned out beautifully. the only downfall, is they are very sweet. cake, mixed with icing, and dipped in chocolate makes for a super-sweet bite. the next time i make them, i will use less sugar in the cake itself and see how that works. i also think a chocolate version would cut down a little of the sweetness.

similar to the marshmallows, this dessert proved to be easy to make but time consuming. the steps are simple yet require cooling time in between nearly every stage.

step 1 - bake cake and let cool completely
step 2 - make icing
step 3 - mix together cooled, crumbled cake and icing
step 4 - roll into balls and refrigerate 30 minutes
step 5 - dip sticks into melted chocolate and insert stick into each cake pop. refrigerate at least 1 hour
step 6 - dip each cake pop into melted chocolate, decorate as desired and let cool completely

i ended up baking the cake the night before and letting it cool overnight. the next morning i rolled the balls and added the sticks in the am and dipped 2-3 hours before the event. luckily, the final chocolate dipping hardens fairly quickly and doesn't need refrigeration.

the verdict? these cake pops are perfect when you are wanting to make a visually impressive dessert. these would make a beautiful centerpiece and can be customized to fit with any color theme. an added bonus? they are delicious! i will definitely be making these again.

p.s. they would be a perfect dessert for valentine's day. red velvet cake pops or chocolate cake pops with pink and red sprinkles would be ideal.

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Champagne Cake Pops
adapted from sweetapolita
makes 6 dozen cake pops (can easily be halved just bake one 8x8" pan)

champagne cake:
3 cups cake flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
3/4 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp salt
1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, room temperature
1 3/4 cups sugar
6 egg whites, room temperature
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
2 cups champagne/prosecco, room temperature

preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream butter and sugar together on medium speed until pale and fluffy, roughly 4-5 minutes. meanwhile, sift together all dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt) and set aside. slowly add egg whites to butter mixture on medium speed. combine vanilla and champagne in a measuring cup. alternately add dry ingredients and champagne, beginning and ending with dry (flour, champagne, flour, champagne, flour) and mix until fully incorporated, but do not overmix.

evenly distribute batter into two buttered and floured 8x8" baking pans. bake at 350°F 25-35 mintues until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. cool completely on a wire rack.

champagne buttercream icing:
26 tbs unsalted butter, softened
3 cups sifted powdered sugar
1/4 cup champagne/prosecco
2 tsp pure vanilla extract

in the bowl of an electric mixer, cream butter on medium speed until light and fluffy, roughly 8-10 minutes. slowly add powdered sugar and beat 4 minutes on medium speed. add vanilla and champagne and beat 3 more minutes. icing will be creamy and fluffy.

working in 2 batches, break up one completely cooled cake and add to bowl of electric mixer. mix on low speed for 1-2 minutes until completely crumbled. add 1 cup champagne icing and blend until mixed. it will form into a dough-like consistency. repeat with remaining cake and icing.

using a small cookies scoop (for uniform-sized balls) roll dough into balls and place on parchment-lined baking sheet. refrigerate 30 minutes.

chocolate coating:
melting chocolate in the color of your choice
sprinkles
white lollipop sticks (you can find them here)

melt a small amount of chocolate in a tall thin container for easy dipping. dip each stick into a little chocolate before inserting stick into ball. repeat with each cake ball. place on parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate at least 1 hour (can be overnight).

melt chocolate in a tall thin container for easy dipping. dip each ball into chocolate and allow chocolate to drip off (i like to tap the wrist of the hand holding the stick to get excess chocolate off). place on parchment-lined baking sheet and immediately decorate with sprinkles if desired. repeat with each ball and let sit at room temperature until chocolate coating has hardened. store in airtight container.

The "It" List - February 10th

2012-02-10T07:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday folks... take some time to read these great links this week!

rachael really is sporting a fun pink jacket just in time for Valentines Day. And check out her fun V-day inspired manicure! (find rachael really on twitter!)
gs lillian has got a Valentine's inspired outfit going on too! I love pairing pink and red together - especially this time of year! (find gs lillian on twitter!)
the tiemann girls went shopping at the Gap recently... check out their fun finds. I'm loving the pops of neon! (find the tiemann girls on twitter!)
suze wears clothes found the perfect casual weekend outfit! Leopard print and leggings - score! (find suze wears clothes on twitter!)
the capital barbie tracks down fun color blocked pieces in green - a color that I am definitely loving for spring! (find the capital barbie on twitter!)
stay in the lines pairs bright neon with winter neutrals for a really great look! And I love her little red sequined heart pin - cute! (find stay in the lines on twitter!)
good clean fun brings us the perfect Valentine's Day cocktail - the Whipped Cosmopolitan! Check out how to make it! (find good clean fun on twitter!)
a fashion fixation says there is nothing like putting on brand new clothes! I'm sure there are a lot of gals out there that feel the same! Check out her new pieces. (find a fashion fixation on twitter!)
here and now brings us a fun new spin on maxi skirts for spring... check out how she's inspired to wear them these days! (find here and now on twitter!)
along abbey road seriously rocks this sequined beanie! So cute... check out how she styles it with a simple outfit for a classic look. (find along abbey road on twitter!)
sweetie pie style found these sweet little air plants in sea urchins on Etsy - are they cute or what? Check out what other goodies she has her eye on these days for the home. (find sweetie pie style on twitter!)
one hundred inspirations recreates this fun Michelle Williams look. I am absolutely loving her bright blue pants and white blazer!
live a lot is deciding on the perfect dress for her bridal shower. Pop on by and see here selections and put in your two cents!

the IT list is produced weekly by Jill of good life, for more information - click here!