Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Pizza

To contact us Click HERE
After a whirlwind trip to Las Vegas this past week for work, I came home to a refrigerator sorely in need of cleaning out. Nothing to throw out quite yet, but definitely some cheeses, produce and other items quite near 'the edge,' if you catch my drift.
So I took to the web, and found an inspiring pizza recipe via This Week for Dinner. Pizza is versatile like that - take a little extra of this, and some leftover that, arrange it on some dough and voila! A delicious and flavorful pizza pie. Because really, so little can go wrong when you start with a base of cheese and bread.

















Oh, and how was Vegas you ask? It was actually my first trip to Sin City and I suppose my best one-word description would be "interesting." I didn't actually do any gambling (who has the extra $$ for that these days, anyway), but I did get to enjoy a few of the sights. The water and light show at the Bellagio was breathtaking, and the view from Mandalay Bay's Foundation Room was tres magnifique. Plus, it's amazing how much time, effort and money is invested in creating these amazingly opulent hotels. I could have spent the whole three-day trip just wandering around and snapping pictures of the hotel lobbies. I didn't have quite enough time to truly experience Vegas, but alas, perhaps I will head back soon again.

















Ingredients1 pizza crust (my favorite recipe here)1 c. cooked and shredded chicken1/2 c. caramelized onions (approx. 1 1/2 medium onion, sliced, to start)Handful of fresh spinach, chopped4 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese2 oz. fresh Parmesan Reggiano, shredded3 oz. goat cheese2 Tbs. honeysalt and pepper to tastegarlic powder to taste
DirectionsPreheat oven to 425 degrees F.
Roll out pizza dough to your desired thickness. Drizzle some olive oil on the dough, and top with a sprinkling of salt, pepper and garlic powder. Top with 2 oz. of mozzarella cheese, then the chicken, caramelized onions and spinach. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella, Parmesan and goat cheese. Drizzle on the honey.
Bake for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and crust is browned and cooked through. Remove from oven and let sit 10 minutes. Slice and serve.
Note: Topping amounts are approximate. Feel free to alter depending on what you have.

Summery Couscous Salad

To contact us Click HERE
Dreaming of spring already? This girl is, for sure. As much as I love winter sports (looking forward to our annual snowboarding trip just next week), I'll never get used to the frigid temperatures and biting wind that accompanies winter each year here in the Midwest.
So I gave myself a little taste of spring with this fresh-tasting, light salad (adapted from Ezra Pound Cake). Paired with a grilled chicken sandwich, it was the perfect way to forget about the subzero temperatures and blustery winds outside. And, as an added bonus, this healthful salad takes the guilt out of that extra Christmas cookie or two you might be snagging as an after-dinner snacky. 'Tis the season!


















Ingredients1 (7.6 oz.) box couscous, cooked according to package directions1 (15 oz.) can Garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed1 red or orange bell pepper, chopped1 cucumber, chopped1/2 red onion, chopped1 tomato, chopped1/4 c. Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced3 oz. crumbled feta cheese1/4 c. fresh (or 1 Tbs. dried) parsley, chopped1/4 c. olive oil1/4 tsp. garlic powder2 Tbs. lime juicesalt and pepper to taste
DirectionsIn a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, lime juice, salt and pepper. In a large bowl, combine remaining ingredients and mix to incorporate. Toss with olive oil mixture. Tastes great right away or chilled, your choice.

Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread

To contact us Click HERE
Nothing pairs with Saturday football better than chili and cornbread. The whole house permeates with the bubbly aroma of the spicy chili, making my mouth water and taste buds jump to attention. Now if only I could enjoy my chili and cornbread while watching my hometown team dominate the playoffs... Oh well, there's always next year, right?!


















But this post is specifically about the cornbread. Chili by itself is certainly delicious. But paired with chewy, moist cornbread seasoned with jalapenos, cheddar cheese and scallions? Out of this world. I happened across this cornbread recipe via Let's Dish. It had all the qualities I was looking for: Super moist and fluffy (not dense), and extra flavors that pair well with a big ole pot of chili. And guess what? The bread even pairs well with a scrambled eggs breakfast as well. I know, I just had it. Yum.
Ingredients1 1/2 c. flour1/2 c. yellow cornmeal2 Tbs. sugar1 Tbs. baking powder1 tsp. salt1 c. milk2 eggs, lightly beaten1/2 c. (1 stick) butter, melted1 1/4 c. grated sharp cheddar cheese2 scallions, finely chopped2 Tbs. seeded and minced jalapeno peppers
DirectionsPreheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease an 8" by 8" baking dish liberally with cooking spray. Set aside.
Combine flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder and salt in a large bowl. Whisk to incorporate. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs and melted butter. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until just incorporated (may still be lumpy). Fold in 1 c. cheddar cheese, scallions and jalapenos. Allow to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
Once rested, spread mixture evenly into greased baking dish and sprinkle with remaining cheese. Baking for 30 to 35 minutes, or until toothpick comes out clean. Cool slightly and cut into squares.

Open-Faced Grilled Eggplant Sandwiches

To contact us Click HERE
Hey there. Hello. Hola. It's been a while. A long while. But don't fret, I've still been eating - and eating well every single day. I just haven't gotten around to posting much. I know, I'm selfish... Keeping all those good recipes to myself. Well, here's to changing that.
Although I value protein highly in my diet, sometimes I just crave a meatless meal (not that all meatless meals are low in protein, but it is more difficult to get a decent amount in a meatless meal). I have always liked the idea of one meatless meal a week, and with Gabe back to the grind stone and taking classes twice weekly, I have two great opportunities to satisfy this craving.
















On the menu this week? Grilled eggplant open-faced sandwiches. Piled high with vegetables and cheese, each bite is packed with flavor. And the best part? It all comes together in less than 15 (10?) minutes. Enjoy!
Ingredients2 slices of hearty bread4 eggplant rounds, approximately 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick1/2 Tbs. olive oil + more for brushing bread1/2 Tbs. balsamic vinegarHerbs de Provence, garlic powder, salt and pepper to taste1/2 Tbs. mayonnaiseSpinach and tomato slices1 oz. mozzarella cheese
DirectionsFire up the outdoor grill or inside grill pan, and preheat oven to the broil setting.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Brush over both sides of eggplant rounds, then sprinkle with Herbs de Provence, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Grill until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from heat. Additionally, brush bread with olive oil and grill until lightly toasted, about 1-2 minutes per side.
Assemble open-faced sandwiches by spreading mayo on each piece of toasted bread, then layering on spinach and tomato slices. Top with grilled eggplant and cheese (Note: I had to slice eggplant rounds in half). Pop sandwiches into the oven and broil until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2 minutes. Remove from oven, let cool slightly and serve.
Note: If you're interested in other meatless meals, check out Ezra Pound Cake blog. She hosts a great Meatless Monday feature with some really great recipe ideas.

Asian-Glazed Drumsticks

To contact us Click HERE
When I was younger, raw chicken was possibly the most disgusting thing in the entire world. I remember my mom prepping a whole chicken for dinner and looking on in horror as she touched - OMG she touched it! - that slimy, sticky bird that somehow turned into something oh-so-delicious for our evening meal. And if she requested my help? Forget about it. I would have no part in such morbid activities and I certainly made my opinion of partaking in such activities well-known.
Why do I bring up such a memory? I had to laugh this evening as I was preparing tonight's dinner. The recipe called for removing the skin from the drumsticks... No easy feat. As I'm pulling and yanking and wrestling with each piece, I could just sense my 10-year old self staring at my now 27-year old self with wonder and disbelief. Who have I become!

















Lucky for me, such activities are not off-limits these days, and I'm able to whip together a nice weeknight meal of Asian-glazed drumsticks and Chinese fried rice without batting an eye. Because I don't think I could live without these drumsticks in my life. Sticky, sweet, spicy and delicious. And surprisingly healthy at only around 115 calories per drumstick. Score!
Ingredients7-8 chicken drumsticks, skin removed2/3 c. water1 tsp. Srirachi hot sauce5 Tbs. balsamic vinegar5 Tbs. low-sodium soy sauce2 1/2 tsp. white sugar3 cloves garlic, finely minced2 tsp. fresh, grated ginger2 Tbs. chives and/or scallions, chopped1 tsp. sesame seedssalt and pepper to taste
DirectionsIn a small bowl, combine water, Srirachi, vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, garlic and ginger. Whisk to combine. Set aside.
Lightly salt and pepper the drumsticks. In a large cast iron skillet, brown chicken over high heat for three to four minutes. Add sauce and cook on high heat until boiling. Reduce heat to low, cover and cook for 20 minutes, turning occasionally. Remove cover, bring heat back to high to reduce sauce, about 10 to 12 minutes, turning chicken occasionally. With about two minutes left, remove chicken to a platter and continue to reduce sauce until it becomes a thick glaze. Pour over chicken. Top with chives, scallions and/or sesame seeds. Enjoy!
Recipe adapted slightly from Gina's Skinny Taste. Thanks Gina!

Have a Banana Split for Ryan

To contact us Click HERE
If you haven't heard about 21 month old Ryan Roberts, get your tissues out and see a video about him here and read about him here.

Hes the most adorable little guy who was born with Downs Syndrome and a congenital heart defect.  A few weeks ago his parents got some devastating news- there was nothing more doctors could do for this sweet, sweet boy. So they made the decision to fill his reaming time with as much fun as they could- creating a bucket list of things that he needs to do like pet a puppy, get a speeding ticket, have a beer, and eat a banana split.
People started asking his Momma, Diane, if there is anything they can do for the family and her response was so self-less and sweet, it needs shared.
"Go out and create a memory with your kid. Throw a banana split on the table for dinner," Diane says. "Wouldn't you remember having banana splits for dinner one night when you were a kid?"
I give all of the credit in the world to this family, I can not imagine the emotions they are going through right now. When I read about them, I cant help but getting tears in my eyes. I would do anything I could to help someone in this situation, and if all this family wants is for me to feed my kiddo ice cream they can consider it done.
A facebook group called Ryans Banana Split Party was created by a family friend where people have posted pictures of them doing just that. Forgoeing the veggies and protein for one night to eat banana splits all over the world.
So one more thing is added to our summer bucket list for the summer, to have a Banana Split for Ryan.  Tonight for dinner Grayson will be having his dessert for dinner in honor of this sweet boy



10 Tips and Tricks for Summer!

To contact us Click HERE
Ahhh, summer. How I love thee.  Warm days, cool nights and three glorious months off.  Here's a list of Tips and Tricks that can help this summer- or anytime you need em!
1. Emergency Contact Information Stickers for Car Seats.  I pin alot of stuff- hey a girls got to do SOMETHING during nap time- with the intention of getting to it.  This I did right away. With summer coming, I know we'll be traveling quite a bit and in case something happens where I cant communicate I want them to know how to get ahold of family ASAP so someone can come take care of Grayson.  Its pretty simple, print out all of the important info (name, birthday, address, phone number, allergies, etc) on a piece of paper and use a nice piece of packing tape to adhere it to the car seat. This idea came curteosy of the super funny blog Dont Pat the Belly.  Momma G keeps me in stitches with the posts $#*! My Three Year Old Says.  If you need a good laugh, check her out!

Image Via Dont Pat The Belly
2. Sparkler Shield! Hello, genius!! Shauna from over at Love 2 Dream, Do You came up with the perfect solution for little ones who love to hold sparklers. The answer- a simple Red Solo Cup. Simply poke a hole through the bottom and feed the sparkler through-no burns! You can bend the wire if you're worried about little ones pulling the sparkler through. And dont worry, Shauna tested the cup and as long as the lit sparkler is not placed inside the cup it will not melt!
Via Love 2 Dream Do You
3. Gwen from over at Gwenny Penny gave me an idea for Grayson Boy's birthday party- and one that we can all use all summer long. Reuse a laundry detergent container for that handy dandy bubble refill station. No having to go out and buy a new container and it keeps the bubbles going all summer long!
Via Gwenny Penny
4. Kim over at All Things Simple shares some valuable info for traveling with kiddos. One of the best things on the list is for packing their clothes. Pack one complete outfit, clothes, socks, undies, hat, hair accessories, etc. in a zip lock baggie. Then when you get to your destination you can put them in a drawer and pull one out per day- no more rummaging around in a suitcase!  This would work well whenever kids are going anywhere- esp if you are not going to be with them and they need everything in one place to get ready quickly!
via
5.  If you remember back to my post on Fathers Day I said we went hiking. Well I used all of the bug spray on the boys and missed a leg- biiggg mistake because my right leg came home COVERED in red, itchy bug bites.  Michelle over at One Ordinary Day said to try rubbing a bar of dried soap on them- and that worked great! The pharmacist I talked to also said to try some Preparation H on them.  Apparently whatever is in there works wonders and kept those babies itch free all night long.  If you dont want to be seen buying hemorrhoid cream, Id try the soap first.  Lucky for me, I got a tube in my hospital goodie bag and it was just hanging out in the bathroom cabinet.
6.  Summer is the time to clean out the closets around our house- and this year I will definitely be using Erica's tip from her home design blog Tart House. I tend to have alot of purses...like a whole lot. Its bad.  Currently my purses are all in their cloth bags sitting on some shelves in my closet- but as of next week they will all be hanging up nice and pretty with shower hooks!  (PS- how amazing is that shoe organization as well? I only wish my closet looked this nice!)
via Tart House
7. One of my fave things to bring back from any trip is booze. A good bottle of wine, a bottle of tequila from Mexico, delish new vodka- Im really not biased. However I do want to avoid looking like a raging alcoholic on an air plane by having it break in my suitcase and having to do the walk of shame through Pgh International smelling like hooch. So when I saw this from Real Simple I was super excited- wrap bottles or breakable objects with kiddos inflatable pool floaties!
via Real Simple
8. Another summer travel must is the umbrella stroller. Sometimes its just not practical to drag the Travel System somewhere, and that lightweight little stroller is just what the doctor ordered.  However, the absolute worst is the fact that the stroller is so light that if you try to hang your diaper bag on the back without the baby weight in it- it falls right over.  Well, not anymore. Courtesy of Real Simple- wrap those ankle weights we all have lying around to the front bars right above the wheels.
 Source: Real Simple
9.  If you're like me, sometimes your hair gets greasy in the summer. Its lovely mix of sweat, sun screen, bug spray and salt in the air that gives me this pretty sheen- which is not always as attractive on me as it is on the Victoria's Secret Model 'beach' hair ads. Whatev. Before I dare to spend 10 bucks plus on some dry shampoo I reach for my $3 bottle of baby powder. Sprinkle a little on your roots and brush through and woosh- good as new.  Also good for those new Mommas who can't remember the last time they showered, but still want to appear as if they have it together when unexpected company shows up. Hey, we've all been there!
10. This one is everywhere on-line, but I can tell you from personal recent experience- it works like mad.  When your cell phone decides its too hot and needs a dip in the swimming pool (or your sweet little boy chucks it into the toilet like mine did), fill a container with some dry white rice. Remove the SIM card and place the phone into the rice for 24-48 hours.  Hopefully this will do the trick and save you big bucks at the Verizon store!

Happy Summer, Lovelies!