A Very Foodie Fourth

I am just now getting around to posting about the long holiday weekend because I only just came out of the food induced coma that I was in. Two potluck cookouts and a visit to Grandma and Grandpa's house will do that to you.

I should have brought something to share with the Grandparents but I only had time enough to prepare for the cookouts. My sweet tooth was in full effect:

1. Fruit Salsa

This recipe is from BestFruitNow.com; sweet but with a spicey kick!

I've never purchased so many different fruits at the same time: strawberries, kiwi, yellow bell pepper, oranges, pinapple, mango, lemon juice, green onion, and jalapeno pepper. Sooooo good!


If I did not restrain myself, I could've eaten the whole concoction (intended to serve at least 15-20) by myself! I served it with blue corn chips to up the color quotient!

Is there anything so pretty as strawberries? (Now if only I had something other than a camera phone to capture it with?)

The finished product:



We were told ahead of time that the main course would consist of fajitas, so you won't be surprised to hear that mine wasn't the only salsa to appear at the cookout. ;) I wasn't bothered in the least because I have no qualms about sampling salsa. In fact, I encourage it!

I think the fajitas went over pretty well judging from the aftermath:

For this cookout as well as for the 2nd, I also provided dessert:

2. From who else but Ms. How Sweet from howsweateast.com: S'mores Brownies and...

3. a Peanut Butter Cheeseball! (Don't judge it by its title until you check out the recipe!)

This baby is for dipping so I brought graham crakers to serve alongside. It was soooo soooo good! I think most people got past the seemingly strange appearance and title when they found out it contained peanut butter AND chocolate chips.

Hope your holiday was as happy as mine!

What great food did you eat for the Fourth?

Who's That Lady: Susan B. Anthony

I have this great little calendar which sits on my desk. Everyday I look forward to peeling off another page to reveal the current day's quote from a famous woman in history. I had more pages to peal off due to the long weekend. Upon discovery of last Monday's quote I feel it most appropriate, especially since 'wedding season' is in full swing:

Marriage, to women as to men, must be a luxury, not a necessity; an incident of life, not all of it.

(Susan B. Anthony (1820-1906) American suffragist and abolitionist)

Now granted, Susan (in addition to other suffragists) is somewhat of a controversial figure in history. However this quotation highlights a strong opinion that I have long held. Thanks Susan, for letting me know that I am not the only woman to have ever felt this way, particularly during wedding season.

Whad'ya know about bananas and milk?

I have been soaking up all kinds of food industry related information since watching Food, Inc. For instance, I am getting routine updates from a blog entitled, Hungry for Change. Two useful posts that you might find interesting too:

1. Bananas has a very small carbon footprint, especially compared to other fruits. (My morning banana will taste even better knowing this!) Say it with me: that's b-a-n-a-n-a-s! :)


2. You can find out where your milk comes from with just a few clicks of your keyboard! Grab your milk/whip cream can/cheese from the fridge and visit whereismymilkfrom.com to get started.

Just a few little snippets of information can really make a difference when your trying to make smart choices!

I Didn't Know That I Didn't Know

Another weekend of potluck cookouts is almost upon us thanks to Indpendence Day. Yesss! I'm excitedly planning what dish to share, but I'm making a few more considerations to choose my recipe than I did before...

While I didn't intend for this blog to be dominated by recipes and cooking, it has certainly become that. One of my personal goals is to re-learn how to cook and eat in a way that benefits a healthier lifestyle. Throughout this process however, I find myself chasing away self-defeating thoughts about why I even need a re-education. Why is it so hard for to make a healthy choice while also minding my budget? Is it really necessary for all people to obsess and study about food and lifestyle in order to become healthier? Did my great grandparents live unhealthily or is there something that they knew that I don't? Even if I make a smart choice at the grocery store, how do I know that the food industry is supporting my choice by ensuring that my food is safe to eat?

This weekend, I had the pleasure of watching Food, Inc. and feel as though my concerns and quandries have been addressed though I don't much care for the answers. I hope that more people have the opportunity to watch it.

3 Surprising Lessons from Food, Inc.:

1. I didn't know that I didn't know.

Before watching Food, Inc., I had heard much of the same information, just in smaller pieces. When it's in the form of a newsstory here, an inside report there, and a sprinkling of food safety warnings, one can only catch a glimpse of the larger problem. Finally, with assistance from Food, Inc. I can see the bigger picture. Hearing how all the warnings, concerns, and issues contribute to larger problems and concerns is quite eye-opening.

2. Variety is illusory.

All consumers are confronted with the challenge to choose. This diet pill or that program, this brand over that brand, or cooking your own food versus pulling into the nearest drive-thru. It takes a lot of work to sort through the barrage of information and make an informed choice. But, in actuality, the choices really aren't so vast and varied. Very few companies control the entire food industry even though the bright, colorful packaging seems to suggest otherwise. When you eliminate all the over-processed stuff and then opt to buy in-season from farmers that are taking care to raise crops and livstock the right way, the choices are simplified. Like author Michael Pollan says, 'Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants.'

3. What I choose makes a difference.

I love that this documentary ends with a positive message! One can easily feel overwhelmed by the dismal, depressing images and facts of the food industry. Luckily, there are things you can do that will influence change, and it doesn't necessarily have to involve swearing off meat or animal products all together.

There is more that I would like to learn on this topic, but I feel inpsired and confident to proceed with a few small, but meaningful changes. I think that these changes are necessary not just for my benefit but for others. I hope you will consider it too.

What tips or information guide your food choices?

Blueberry Banana Goodness

Yep! I did it! After reading about and dreaming of muffin recipes, what else could I do? I made a dozen Whole Wheat Blueberry Banana Bread muffins as soon as I could yesterday after work and patiently waited for the next morning to have one with coffee and yogurt, just like I planned. Sometimes you have to enjoy the simple things, which I think I did pretty successfully.

Find the recipe here and try it for yourself!

Muffin Cravings

Last night I was craving mexican food (more on that later) and this morning it's muffins. I don't know if I'm strong enough to manage two serious cravings in two consecutive days. All I can think about is a warm muffin and a huge glass of iced coffee...Mmmm!

(photos from How Sweet It Is)

Visit How Sweet It Is to find out what sparked my sweet tooth: http://www.howsweeteats.com/2010/06/24/muffin-mania/. Warning to all those who visit: Beware of delicious recipes and photos contained in the site. May cause cravings and urges to bake.

Now I just need to find friends who like muffins too. My hips don't lie and they're telling me that I don't need to eat a whole batch of muffins by myself.

What are you craving?

Summer Side Salad, Part Deux

My quest for simple summer recipes continues! And this time it took me to the Mediterranean, specifically Greece. Opa!


This was another find from Eating Well magazine. As soon as I saw the words 'feta cheese', I knew I couldn't resist making it. Plus, Greek food is a new favorite that I only recently discovered in the last 5 years or so, and am so glad I did!

Greek Salad

Yields 4 servings, 2 c. each

· 3 tbs lemon juice

· 2 tbs extra-virgin olive oil

· 1 clove garlic, minced

· 2 tsp dried oregano

· 1/2 tsp freshly ground pepper

· 3 medium tomatoes, cut into lrg chunks

· 1 lrg English cucumber, cut into lrg chunks

· 1 15-oz can chickpeas, rinsed

· 1/3 c. crumbled feta cheese

· 1/4 c. thinly sliced red onions

· 2 tbs sliced kalamata/black olives

1. Whisk lemon juice, oil, garlic, oregano, and pepper in lrg bowl.

2. Add tomatoes, cucumber, chickpeas, feta, onions, and olives to same bowl; gently toss.

The magazine version adds sardines atop this salad, but I can't get past the smell and bad reputation. But that got me thinking about possible substitutes. I settled on a tuna sandwich but not just any old one. I made tuna salad by mixing tuna with roasted red pepper hummus (instead of mayo and all the rest... way easier!). Also, I used Orrowheat sandwhich thins that were a little toasted for some crunch. Put it all together for one tasty meal with some Grecean flair!

Now if only I had some uzo! It's okay though, I'm more than happy with...

I think all my recipe searching and experimenting is starting to pay off! I'm getting better at being creative in the kitchen AND I'm having fun! Double bonus!

What is a new simple recipe that you recently tried and are glad that you learned?

Summer Side Salad

Memorial Day weekend really got me in the mood for cook-out food. It's all I can think about! When I ran across Eating Well magazine which advertised 'Healthy in a Hurry Recipes' and 'Power Salads to Fuel Your Day', I snatched it up. Yay for inspiration! I found a great recipe for a creamy pasta salad that I had to try.

I didn't follow the exact recipe because I'm not a fan of ham or making my own dressing. So here is my very own version...

Broccoli, Turkey Bacon, and Pasta Salad

10 oz Whole Wheat Fusilli
10 slice Turkey Bacon, Extra-lean (I used Jennie O)
4 cups Broccoli, florets
4 tbs Wishbone's Parmesan Peppercorn Light Ranch (or another of your choice)

1. Prepare pasta as directed on package. Rinse under cold water while draining.
2. While pasta is cooking, prepare frozen broccoli on stovetop according to directions on package.
3. Prepare bacon any way you like it. I baked it in the oven because I was running out of room on the stovetop.
4. Add pasta, broccoli, and bacon to the same bowl. Pour 1/2 cup Peppercorn light ranch and toss in order to distribute evenly over all ingredients.
5. Store in fridge for at least 2 hours before serving.
6. Season as desired.

I'm looking forward to experimenting with different combinations of veggies. I really want to add peas and maybe a red pepper next time.

Cheers to summer fun in the sun!

Give me a high cinco!

It didn't sink in 'till I got to work yesterday that it was Cinco de Mayo... yesss! Can I get a high five?! I gotta say; having an excuse to make and eat mexican food (or at least my best attempt at my own version of it) is always welcome!

I happily, feverishly started to contact friends and before I knew it we had a nice little fiesta on our hands. My task was to provide ingredients for salsa and guac so as soon as the work day was over, I ran (yes I mean that, I RAN) to the grocery store to pick up tomatoes and avocados among other things.

In my excitement for the communal meal, I took absolutely no pictures before we started chowing. What I can offer are pictures of the remnants:

Strawberry-Banana Margaritas! So nice after a long day! I gotta get this recipe...

Yes, you guessed it: pico de gallo! I'm dedicating the leftovers to my breakfast tomorrow morning.

Hardley any guacamole left... imagine that! The fun with guacamole is starting with a basic, authentic guacamole recipe and then making it your own! Note to self: buy more jalapeno next time.

Chicken enchiladas were also nearly destroyed. I saw that a lot of other bloggers were making their enchiladas with greek yogurt instead of sour cream or cottage cheese. I look forward to trying that as soon I can if only because I would love another excuse to eat enchiladas! :)

And for the grand finale: homemade baked cinnamon-sugar tortilla chips with what else but ice cream! Such a satisfying, filling, delicious meal!

Felicidades!

A Weak Moment

Confession time: I sometimes have a weakness for pizza!

As a kid, it was a total treat when mom & dad ordered out for pizza. Nothing could be more exciting! Perhaps that same feeling has stayed with me or at least creeps up on me every now and again.

Tonight was one of those times. But instead of ordering out, I took on the task myself.

After a quick trip to the store, I had gathered all the toppings I was craving.

My sister, who is a vegetarian, was happy to help me chow down on a pizza so I included some MorningStar Farms Veggie Crumbles at her request. They look like ground beef so you could easily sneak these onto a pizza without notice from non-vegitarians.

Gotta plug my go-to sauce: Newman's Own! Great ingredients and taste! Love. it.

And the finished masterpiece: Half slices of tomato, raw spinach, goat cheese crumbles, veggie crumbles, and shredded colby jack cheese. I might have over-cheesed this pizza, but sometimes I just can't help myself. :)


My pizza slices hardly made it to my plate fast enough. A quick tip about using Pillsbury Thin Crust: the crust under the middle slices was a little softer then I would like. Don't take it out too soon or perhaps spend another minute letting it pre-bake.

What's your favorite pizza recipe?

Coming soon: Cinco de Mayo food!

Cherished and beloved birthday treats

So many birthdays this month and last! My birthday was just one month ago and contrary to my customary birthday rituals, I did NOT bring birthday treats to share with co-workers. For shame!

Therefore, I am living vicariously through one of my coworkers who kindly brought birthday treats for her own birthday today. Against my better judgment, I just had to have one. What better way to get through a Monday than with peanut butter and chocolate!

Speedy Little Devils

• 1 (18 0z) box Devil's Food Cake Mix
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 7 oz. marshmallow creme

1. Combine melted butter and dry cake mix.
2. Reserve 1 1/2 cups cake mixture for topping.
3. Put remaining crumb mixture into bottom of ungreased 9x13 inch cake pan.
4. Top that layer with combined peanut butter and marshmallow mixture & spread evenly.
5. Crumble remaining mixture on top and press into filling.
6. Bake 15-20 mins at 350 degrees.
7. Cool.

I'm told this only takes 30 minutes max to prepare! Love. it. That's why their called "Speedy"! :)

I wanna do research on butter substitutes because this recipe call for a whole heck of a lot! Other substitutions: might be able to use a muffin pan instead of cake pan, Skippy Natural peanut butter (yummm!), and I've also heard of organic marshmallow creme (?).

Do you have a favorite birthday treat recipe? I'd love to see it!

Best wishes to all Spring birthdays!

Simply Sunday

Sometimes you just need a quiet Sunday and this was mine. During my chill-axation time I almost convinced myself to fix a big, comforting, Sunday dinner. But I know better than to think that I am going to be master chef on such a lazy day (or any day really). And why give up chillaxing anymore than I have to? So, I'm okay with not being a chef, especially since I am much more successful when I keep it simple.

Tonight's dinner was a great example of simple and yummy:

This is whole wheat pasta sauteed in a little olive oil, 1/2 a yellow bell pepper sauteed with pasta, spinach, baked orange roughy accented with garlic powder and italian seasoning, and parmesan cheese all over everything (which I cannot resist if eating pasta :) ). Very low maintenance, but satisfying nonetheless!

Enjoy the rest of your Sunday!

Springing into spring

If I had to choose a favorite time of year, I think I would choose Spring! I don't know if it's the the sun, warmer temperatures, no more fighting with snow, better fruits and veggies at the grocery store, or what. It has certainly taken hold on me; I've re-arranged, re-organized, and re-committed to all around wellness. It sounds hokey, but this is exactly what Spring can do to a person!

And its really the little pleasures that help you in your re-committment that can make all the difference. For instance...

I can hardly bear the thought of walking into a coffee shop and not purchasing coffee. Unless, of course, it's a Chocolate Banana Vivanno Smoothie from Starbucks! I was on-the-go the other day and was super hungry. Good thing I had remembered hearing about this or else I would've been in terrible shape by dinner time. Plus, you really do feel like you're indulging because its chocolate! Fresh ingredients really do hit the spot!

Stay tuned for more new discoveries!

Cause We're All Irish on St. Paddy's Day!

I see lots of people wearing green today and am hearing plans for celebrating the holiday tonight. But in the instance that you are looking to take your celebration to a deeper level, I think I can help (with a little assistance from who else but NPR :) ).

The first step to a deeper kind of celebration is letting it come from the heart. And how else do we get to the heart but through the stomach? How about a delectable St. Patty's day dessert?! That's what I thought. Check out this recipe for Chocolate Guinness Cake from Nigella Lawson. This may require an open-mind for some. In my case, I have tried Guinness-flavored ice cream before and am positive that trying another Guinness-flavored dessert is a step in the right direction. If I get a chance to try the recipe myself, I will certainly report back.

Now that the heart is covered, how about the mind? I will be the first to admit that I have a very romanticized idea of the Ireland. I knew that Ireland's economy is currently suffering in the same way as Portugal, Italy, Greece, and Spain. However, I did not know that almost immediately before that, they were experiencing an economic boom in the 90s that perhaps could've softened the blow. From history, we know that Ireland has never been a stranger to troubled times, but will they ever be able to leave the trouble in the past? Find out more by listening to today's episode of On Point entitled, "Ireland's Epic Boom and Bust".

All that being said, there is certainly no problem with celebrations that are only skin deep. I stumbled upon an amazing Etsy shop that sells handmade soaps some of which are made using our favorite brands of beer. I chose a Stout Beer Soap Made With Guinness and gave a couple as gifts and kept one for myself. My skin is oh so soft! Check it out!

Best o' luck as ye celebrate St. Paddy's Day!

Who's That Lady - Mothers of Ciudad Juarez

I first learned of the extreme, drug-related violence in Ciudad Juarez while in college. Recently, Juarez has just re-entered the collective conscious of the U.S. due to the recent the murders of U.S. families and a consular employee by suspected drug gangsters. While I gravitate toward women who have gained fame for the actions, I can't deny the incredible strength of everyday women just like those in Ciudad Juarez.

Here are the facts:

• It's believed that 400 women and girls have been murdered and more than 70 remain missing in Ciudad Juarez and Chihuahua, Mexico (Amnesty International).


• Exact numbers of those missing and dead still remain somewhat of a mystery.


• Many of the victims look chillingly similar: young, slim, dark complexion, shoulder-length hair, and poor daughters of the working class (NPR, 2003).


• Many victims disappear on their way to work in the maquiladora industry


• Mothers of vicitms have been featured in numerous news articles describing the extreme angst they feel from not knowing what has become of their daughters.


• Every type of homicide against women is common in the city, especially sexual- and drug-related killings (NPR, 2003).


• Families of victims do not believe that the murderers will ever be identified as they are believe to be the elite members of the city in powerful government and law enforcement positions.


• Juarez is headquarters to a major drug cartel.

For more info:

- A documentary film: Border Echoes: The Truth Behind the Juarez Murders

- Faces of the Missing in Ciudad Juarez

- Amnesty International, USA: http://www.amnestyusa.org/violence-against-women/justice-for-the-women-of-juarez-and-chihuahua/page.do?id=1108394

- NPR story, 2003: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=1171962&ps=rs

- NPR story, 2010: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=124572344

- NPR story about 3 people with ties to U.S. consolate who were killed in Juarez, 2010: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=124676161&ps=rs

So here's to you mommies of Juarez, for your strength in this terrible, ongoing tragedy spanning year after year, You go girls!