Side

Smoky Pumpkin & Black Sesame Seed Hummus

October 24, 2016ALL, Appetizer, Fall, Side, Snack, Vegan9

In a hurry? Click here to JUMP TO RECIPE!

This Smoky Pumpkin & Black Sesame Seed Hummus is the perfect fall appetizer or an easy dinner with a side of chopped veggies and chips. This orange and black dip is also festive and perfect for Halloween parties!

I don’t mean to have you ruin your impression of me but I kind of hate Halloween. There. I said it. I’m pretty sure I’ve felt this way ever since I was too old to go trick or treating. Back when I was a little kid, we’d watch Hocus Pocus and go trick or treating which I could get down with. But Halloween for middle and high schoolers was all about horror movie marathons and haunted houses which didn’t work out well for me since I scare easily and despise being frightened. Halloween for my college years was always dressing up in a slutty outfit while the guys wore something so far out that they weren’t recognizable; at the time, this annoyed me since I couldn’t tell if that was was actually cute or if it was just his Halloween costume and now I’m just annoyed I gave into wearing those slutty suits.

Cherry Mint Polenta Bruschetta

June 19, 2016ALL, Appetizer, Side, Snack1

In a hurry? Click here to JUMP TO RECIPE!

This Cherry Mint Polenta Bruschetta is the perfect appetizer or starter to feed a crowd. The tart cherries and salty feta works perfectly on top of the savory polenta rounds.

Good ol’ Father’s Day. I’ve been fortunate enough to always have a wonderful father in my life. We’ve haven’t always agreed on everything and it’s taken him a long time to come around to my creative lifestyle but we’ve found a good grove for ourselves over the years. I’m proud to say I received my wanderlust from him taking us all around the country to National Parks when I was a child and my goofy way of teasing people endlessly with sarcastic lies and jokes.

My mom and dad divorced before I was one but the one thing I’ve come to realize they shared in common (and probably what also ruined their relationship) is their struggle to show intimacy. We were never a touchy feely family growing up and I was taught, through watching them, that the best way to express emotion in any form is to hide it (the good old modest passive-aggressive Midwest mentality). I still remember the first time I cried over a boy in front of my father. I was sulking on the couch and he came from work and started asking how my day was. When I refused to engage in the conversation, he frustratingly barked “what is wrong with you?” and I burst into tears. He got up and right when I thought he was going to come over and give me a big hug, he walked past the couch I was sitting on and left the room. When he returned a few minutes later, he sat down close to me and goes ‘Want a piece of gum? Will that make you feel better?’ and I remember smiling through tears at how far off from the solution that question was. It was an absurd response to the situation but I know now that was his way of dealing with a crying teenager.

Through the years since I moved out at 18, I’ve noticed him softening more and more. Perhaps it’s because I’m not around as much or maybe I’ve learned to navigate his passive way of saying “I’m proud of you” but the “I love you”s come more frequently and the time spent together cherished more. I wasn’t able to get you on the phone today, Father, but I know that is just because you are out exploring the woods just like we did when I was a kid and knowing you are doing that makes me just as happy as having a quick phone chat with you. <3

__________________

And now let’s quickly talk about this Cherry Mint Polenta Bruschetta. I went to the store the other day with full intentions of picking up some strawberries for a strawberry-bruchetta situation but found these gorgeous cherries gleaming at me instead. I added a touch of honey to them as my cherries were extra tart but you can skip that part if you have sweeter cherries on hand. Enjoy these Cherry Mint Polenta Bruschetta as an afternoon snack or as a starter at your next gathering.

Cherry Mint Polenta Bruschetta recipe below:

Garden Harvest Vegetable Bread Loaf

June 2, 2016ALL, Bread, Breakfast, Side, Snack69

In a hurry? Click here to JUMP TO RECIPE!

This Garden Harvest Vegetable Bread is the perfect recipe for sandwiches, thick toast, or to eat fresh by the slice while still warm out of the oven. This yeasted bread is packed with carrots, zucchini, olives, smoky paprika, and oregano to create a loaded savory homemade bread.

I have this “thing” (lets call it that as some people would label it as a problem and others as a habit) where I insist on throwing in twice as many vegetables as a recipe calls for. I’ll ask Wyatt what he wants for dinner or I’ll send him along links to three recipes and tell him to pick one. He’ll excitedly pick the most indulgent option (pizza! pad thai. pizza! buttery pot pies. pizza!) and I’ll dash of to the store to pick up the ingredients. On the way, without even meaning to, I’ll start brainstorming ways to make the recipe “better” (which, in my head, means brainstorming how I can stuff more vegetables into it) and come home with ingredients that slightly resemble what I was supposed to grab. An hour later, I’ll serve him what I whipped up and he’ll reluctantly start questioning what is on his plate: “Was their supposed to be zucchini in this?” “I thought there was Alfredo sauce in the recipe…” “Did you mean to only give me vegetables?”. I’ll take a bite and exclaim that it’s delicious and he’ll mutter “Yeah but I think the original recipe that had nacho cheese would have been better”. I’ll then promise to follow the recipe next time and give him the small victory of picking the Netflix show we watch while we eat.

This weekly scene is the exact reason I love this vegetable bread recipe. I stuffed so many vegetables into this bread and it still came out pillowly, moist, and tasting slightly like pizza (I’ll thank the dried oregano for that). The briny olives give the perfect contrast to the savory oregano and smoky paprika. I sliced this bread and ate it warm with plain yogurt and more olives but it would also make delicious sandwiches or the perfect toast for topping with a poached egg and herbed butter.

Mini Pimento Mac & Cheese Bites

January 20, 2016Adventure, ALL, Side, Snack7

In a hurry? Click here to JUMP TO RECIPE!

Creamy and cheesy bite size Mini Pimento Mac & Cheese Bites!

I’ve got some freaking amazing Mini Pimento Mac & Cheese Bites for you all today! But what’s the special occasion, you ask? Well today I am so beyond excited to be a part of Sarah from Snixy Kitchen’s virtual baby shower! Over thirty of us bloggers have come together to celebrate her #cheesebabyshower by posting a cheesy recipe for her virtual celebration!

I’ve spent the past few days thinking of really great talking points for a baby shower (as if I was actually prepping to head to one with all these fine ladies and gentleman) because I’ve never actually been to one before. I honestly just went to my first wedding shower this year so I guess, at 26, I’m a little behind in celebrating all these big adult milestones. Anyhow, while I was thinking of topic points, I caught myself saying ‘No Shelly. Not appropriate baby shower talk’ and realized that my ‘do not bring up at baby showers’ list was as long as my ‘talking points’ list; because I’m not actually at a real shower, I thought it might be nice to share both lists with you:

Don’t list: “What are all of the weird pregnancy cravings you all have gotten while pregnant? I’ve never had a kid but imagine I would just constantly be eating a jar of peanut butter and a tub of cream cheese at the same time”
Do list: “Can you tell what kind of foods your baby girl likes so far? Does she kick in approval?”
Don’t list: “Sarah, can I see your studio set up? I love the lighting in your photos and would love to see how you shoot them!”
Do list: “Can I see the nursery? I sure hope it’s Wes Anderson themed!”
Very Don’t list: “Aren’t you scared of the whole birth process?”
Do list: “What are all the shows you are going to binge watch while waiting to go into labor? I’d recommend Empire, Gilmore Girls, The O.C., and Nashville”
Don’t List: “Would you mind if I put ‘Look Who’s Talking On’ on your TV during the party?”
Do List: “I made this cheese themed music playlist – can I put it on during the party?”
Don’t List: “Do you think I should throw a shower for my new dog? I mean I didn’t spend 9 months growing him but I still really like him.”
Do List: “Sarah, I’m really clumsy and am constantly knocking things over when I shoot my recipes. How do you manage to keep it all so together with an additional human inside of you?”

I’d assume that these talking points would get me through at least the first half an hour of the party, at which point I could excuse myself and munch down on all the freaking amazing food there is because everyone at the event would just be a bunch of nerdy food bloggers! Speaking of that…

I’m Writing A Cookbook + Cherry Chocolate Granola Bars

January 7, 2016ALL, Breakfast, Side, Snack, Top Ranked Post3

In a hurry? Click here to JUMP TO RECIPE!

I’ve got some big news for the new year: I’m writing a cookbook! It’s so crazy to type that out! Not only am I writing a cookbook but it’s being published by one of my favorite publishers, Chronicle Books (they put out the amazing Tartine series and Handmade Baking, just to name a few)! It’s a total dream come true and I’ve spent the last year going through a whirlwind of emotions with the whole thing: excitement, anxiety, amazement, doubt, gittiness, exhaustion, joy, nervousness, frustration, and pretty much any other extreme emotion under the sun!

Well, to back up a bit, I said I’m writing a cookbook but I actually already wrote the cookbook – I spent the majority of 2015 working on it and finally turned the manuscript in at the end of December. I know, I know – how did I manage to keep this from you for so long? Why did I keep it from you? Well, I wasn’t sure how to tell you; it’s such a big deal for me that I wanted to throw a huge party and invite you all over and feed you cake to share the good news but that’s not realistic so instead I just kept putting it off…waiting for the right words to come but they never did. Plus, the book doesn’t come out until spring of 2017 so it just felt so far away to mention it. But at the same time, it was so hard not to mention something! To try to explain why I was a little MIA towards the end of last year and to try and contain my excitement and talk about the mundane of everyday when I had just spent 12 hours recipe testing and perfecting a recipe that I wouldn’t get to show you for another 18 months.

Cornbread, Brussels Sprouts, Sweet Potato, & Pomegranate Stuffing

November 18, 2015ALL, Side, Vegan1

Let’s talk about this Cornbread, Brussels Sprouts, Sweet Potato, & Pomegranate Stuffing. Can you believe that Thanksgiving is only a little over a week away? How freaking crazy is that? Are you ready? I can tell you right now that I am NOT! I’ve started one of those crazy spreadsheets with cooking temperatures and time length on it – yes, I’ve become one of those crazy cooks!

In other news, I’m actually popping in to tell you how excited I am to be one of Pure Green Magazine’s community leaders for the holiday season! This means I have a little interview and beyond delicious vegan Cornbread, Brussels Sprouts, Sweet Potato, & Pomegranate Stuffing recipe over on their website this week!

I still remember the first time I came across a Pure Green magazine in our little corner bookstore. It was volume four and the main focus was food food food (no wonder it grabbed my attention). After reading through the whole magazine all in one sitting, I jumped online to find out more about them and was amazed to find a really wonderful online community that revolved around it. Fast forward years later and I am not only a part of that community but coined a community leader – how cool is that?!

Okay – hop on over to check out this recipe for Cornbread, Brussels Sprouts, Sweet Potato, & Pomegranate Stuffing as I’m off to continue planning my fully vegetarian Thanksgiving menu. What are you planning to whip up in your kitchen next week?

Vegetarian Meal Plan: Indian Summer Edition

September 27, 2015ALL, Appetizer, Entree, Side, Snack3

Hey friends! I am starting a new feature today that will be either weekly or bi-weekly (not looking to make any promises because I’m a heart breaker and often times get scattered and don’t follow through on weekly tasks).

The feature was sparked by that pesky question I still get asked often, “What do you eat as a vegetarian?”, despite having 4+ years of vegetarian recipes documented on this site. Also, I want this site to be more than just weekly recipe inspirations – I want it to be a resource for people looking to cut back on the meat they consume on a daily basis.

This feature is simple – it’s going to be a one stop shop assembling three days of vegetarian meals with the last one being a special topic (this week’s is fall feasting). Why three days instead of seven, you ask? Because let’s be real – what is the fun in having every single meal planned out for every single day? This feature is meant to be a starting point to help you begin to get creative with planning out vegetarian meals in your own kitchen. Use these three days of meals as a guide for figuring out what you do and don’t like (because we all know that we won’t continue on with a lifestyle if we can’t stand it. Don’t like beets? Don’t cook with them!). Also, I give a dessert option with each day but you obviously don’t need to be making sweets everyday (unless you want to and if that is the case, all I have to say is treat yo self!) – treat those suggestions and pick out one or two favorites for the week.

Still with me? Cool! Let’s start:

Whipped Cocoa Mascarpone & Fruit Crostinis

June 30, 2015ALL, Appetizer, Side, Snack, Sweets2

In a hurry? Click here to JUMP TO RECIPE!

Okay, so I’m sorry for all the dessert posts lately (not really) but the fruit at my market this year has just been too amazing looking to pass up. Perhaps I’m still recovering from the winter drought of frozen blueberries and more…frozen blueberries but I just can’t help myself when I pass all the bright and vibrant colors in the produce aisle.

Wyatt and I went up north last weekend for a wedding and we’ve made it a habit to visit the local farmers market when on vacation. I love seeing the change in produce that driving 4 hours can trigger and ran across the most beautiful currants (pictured!) that I just had to buy. They were, of course, too gorgeous to hide in a jam or bread so I decided to figure out a recipe that would showcase them.

Whiskey’d Mozzarella Toast + Picnic With A Couple Cooks

May 31, 2015Adventure, ALL, Side, Snack0

In a hurry? Click here to JUMP TO RECIPE!

Last weekend, I had the pleasure of meeting up with Sonja and Alex from A Couple Cooks to have the most wonderful and relaxing picnic. This wasn’t our first time hanging and we’ve managed to continuously find fun ways to hang out around cooking and nerding out over food. It’s always such a joy to spend time with friends who have similar passions and get that you need to spend 20 minutes styling and photographing your food before you can eat it (hehe).

They came down for a wedding in Bloomington a few hours early so we could hang out at a nearby park basking in the sun, fending off caterpillars, and stuffing our faces with fresh food from the local Bloomingfoods co-op. Make sure to check out A Couple Cook’s blog post to learn how to make the delicious drink we enjoyed all afternoon. Here are a few snapshots from our afternoon in the park:

Multi-Grain Knots 2 Ways: Parsley-Garlic & Cinnamon-Whiskey Sugar

February 22, 2015ALL, Side, Snack, Vegan2

In a hurry? Click here to JUMP TO RECIPE!

Remember when I used to post about salads and juices and the benefits of food healing? Well those topics feel miles away as this Midwest February demands carbs, alcohol, and anything else that is going to fatten me up and keep me warm. Honestly, if I wasn’t so set on turning these into garlic knots and sweet rolls then the bread would have just been fantastic on it’s own; I sometimes struggle with my loaves coming out dense but these were light (despite using whole wheat flour!) with a wonderful crunch on the outside and pillowy soft on the inside.

As you may notice, this post is crowded with photos; I’m trying out something new today. Instead of photoshopping my photos side by side (since my site doesn’t allow me to put photos next to each other – grrrr), I just made them all HUGE! The only problem with that is that there are now SO many of them which makes me think that I probably spend way too much time editing photos to begin with and I could have just shown you a finished product shot and been done with this post five hours ago. Ugh, unfortunately that is not how I work – my words aren’t usually that inspiring (hey, I know where my strengths and weaknesses are) so I strive to lead with gorgeous photos. Anyhow, I’m sorry if it’s crowded – I’ve already spent all afternoon editing photos so I’ll keep it minimal with the words to try and tone down the scrolling. Maybe we’ll end up being really into it this way and it will feel less crowded with time? Or maybe I’ll go back to the side-by-side photoshop edited photos that look so uninspiring when pinned and awkward when linked to on Facebook. Who knows – we’ll see.

Winter Panzanella Salad With Cornbread Croutons + A GIVEAWAY!

February 10, 2015ALL, Appetizer, Entree, Side, Snack, Vegan0

In a hurry? Click here to JUMP TO RECIPE!

It has been a very long time since I hosted a giveaway around here. I am beyond thrilled to let you know that the wonderful folks over at Turntable Kitchen hired me to create the recipe for their February pairing box. I had so much fun with it – the dreary and cold days are never ending in the Midwest this time of year so I let my imagination drift away to blissful summer days that revolve around endless afternoons with friends at the lake. The box was loosely inspired by summer camp – with a healthy Midwest vegetarian twist, of course (just my style). So, what I am trying to say is that this month’s pairing box is going to be a real treat that you won’t want to miss! I mean, it’s going to feature 3 never-before-seen Vegetarian ‘Ventures recipes! As an avid reader, I didn’t want you to miss out on these recipes so I’m giving you a chance to win a 3 month subscription to Turntable Kitchen’s pairing box which will start with the February box that I recipe developed for! What’s in the pairing box, you ask? Well here is what you get:

An exclusive 7″ vinyl
Digital mixtape
A premium ingredient
3 seasonal recipes
Tasting notes

Here is a video to learn more about the pairing box (which, by the way, usually costs $75 for 3 months and I am offering a chance to win it FOR FREE below):

The Turntable Kitchen Pairings Box Experience from High Beam Media on Vimeo.

Okay, in case you aren’t sold yet, I’ve made a short list of reasons why you need this pairing box in your life:

It’s almost Valentine’s Day and this would be the perfect gift to impress that hot hipster that you’ve been trying to snag for months now
You are a vinyl enthusiastic and on a mission to collect every vinyl to ever be made so you must seek out these exclusive TTK 7″s immediately
YOLO. Treat Yo ‘Self. Whatever you want to call it, you love receiving gifts and this is a specially curated one that will arrive at your doorstep every month (until I cut you off…which will be in 3 months)
You like music and cooking. If that is the case then this is especially for you.
You always knew the coolest bands in college but then you got a corporate job and don’t have time for hobbies like rummaging through vinyl at record stores, hanging out in sweaty bars waiting for midnight sets to start, or reading every ‘rising artist’ article posted on Pitchfork. This delivers vinyl and mix tapes from new and upcoming bands right to your doorstep. (PS I should note that this scenario is highly unlikely because why would you have time for my wordy blog posts but not time for searching iTune’s daily ‘indie spotlight’ section or whatever they call it these days?)
You like cool stuff and this is cool and I am giving you the chance to potentially win this contest and try it out for free so why not?

(side note: Dang I’m good at this! It’s like I sell vinyl records for a living or something…)

Cool? Cool! Now enter this giveaway already!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Winter Panzanella Salad With Cornbread Croutons recipe below:

Oh and here is a simple winter salad that is perfect with leftover cornbread or as an excuse to whip up a batch.

Winter Panzanella Salad With Cornbread Croutons + A GIVEAWAY!

A simple winter salad that is perfect with leftover cornbread or as an excuse to whip up a batch.

Course: Side

Cuisine: Vegetarian

Author: Shelly Westerhausen

Ingredients

1 butternut squash , peeled and diced into 1 inch cubes
1 onion , cute into 1 inch wedges
3 cups brussel sprouts , halved
2 Tablespoons olive oil
Salt / Pepper
3-4 Thyme Sprigs
Lemon or Orange Wedges
Parmesan , to spring on top (omit if vegan)

For the cornbread croutons:

2 cups non-dairy milk
1/2 lemon
2 cups cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup coconut oil , melted
2 Tablespoons maple syrup
1 Tablespoon olive oil
1 garlic clove crushed

Instructions

For the cornbread: Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line a 9×13 baking sheet with parchment paper. Squeeze the lemon juice into the milk and set aside for at least 5 minutes. Whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the coconut oil, maple syrup, and milk mixture. Slowly whisk together the wet ingredients and then start incorporating the dry ingredients as you whisk until a thick batter is formed. Spread evenly in your baking pan and bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean in the center. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Slice the bread into 1 inch squares to make them ‘croutons’ and place on a parchment paper lined baking sheet. Combine the crushed garlic with the olive oil and brush over the croutons. Stick on the toaster setting in your toaster oven for 5 minutes (or until browned) or into your boiler for 1-2 minutes or until crispy.
For the veggies: Raise the oven temperature to 400 and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out the seedy insides of the butternut squash and cut it into 1 inch cubes. Transfer the butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and onions to the prepared baking dish and lay out in a single layer. Top with olive oil, salt, pepper, and toss until everything is completely coated. Bake for 30 minutes or until the vegetables have softened and browned. Remove from heat and let cool. Toss with the cornbread croutons, a squirt of citrus, some parmesan (if using), and serve warm.

Serves 6 as a side or starter

1 butternut squash, peeled and diced into 1 inch cubes
1 onion, cute into 1 inch wedges
3 cups brussel sprouts, halved
2 Tablespoons olive oil
Salt / Pepper
3-4 Thyme Sprigs
Lemon or Orange Wedges
Parmesan, to spring on top (omit if vegan)

For the cornbread croutons:

2 cups non-dairy milk
1/2 lemon
2 cups cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
2 Tablespoons maple syrup

1 Tablespoon olive oil
1 garlic clove crushed

For the cornbread: Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line a 9×13 baking sheet with parchment paper. Squeeze the lemon juice into the milk and set aside for at least 5 minutes. Whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the coconut oil, maple syrup, and milk mixture. Slowly whisk together the wet ingredients and then start incorporating the dry ingredients as you whisk until a thick batter is formed. Spread evenly in your baking pan and bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean in the center. Remove from oven and let cool completely.

Slice the bread into 1 inch squares to make them ‘croutons’ and place on a parchment paper lined baking sheet. Combine the crushed garlic with the olive oil and brush over the croutons. Stick on the toaster setting in your toaster oven for 5 minutes (or until browned) or into your boiler for 1-2 minutes or until crispy.

For the veggies: Raise the oven temperature to 400 and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out the seedy insides of the butternut squash and cut it into 1 inch cubes. Transfer the butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and onions to the prepared baking dish and lay out in a single layer. Top with olive oil, salt, pepper, and toss until everything is completely coated. Bake for 30 minutes or until the vegetables have softened and browned. Remove from heat and let cool. Toss with the cornbread croutons, a squirt of citrus, some parmesan (if using), and serve warm.

Goat Cheese Dip With Red Wine Figs

November 20, 2014ALL, Appetizer, Side, Snack0

In a hurry? Click here to JUMP TO RECIPE!

Here we go – this post is coming a few days early as I am squeezing one more post in before I dip out for the Thanksgiving week and put all my focus into consuming as much pie as possible and into keeping warm. We are heading up to Minneapolis in a few days, despite weather.com reminding me that it’s a horrible idea to travel north during the season of polar vortexs and non-stop blizzards. Don’t worry, I am trying to stay positive and ignore all the articles on the people who have been stuck in their cars for over 24 hours due to the New Buffalo blizzard (okay, now I am just being dramatic).

I had intended to do another vegetarian Thanksgiving round-up and remind everyone that it is possible to have a 100% humane holiday but I’ve honestly already seen a slew of really great vegetarian round-ups that made me second guess needing to put another one out there. It’s crazy wonderful how far vegetarianism has come, just in the three years since I’ve been blogging (despite the 12 years since I became a vegetarian) and it’s really inspiring to see so many people catching on! I mean, I know you guys get it (that is why you are here!) but it used to be really really hard for us vegetarians to sit down at the Thanksgiving table and find something to eat. Luckily, the days of frozen meat protein and plates full of dinner rolls are over because there are endless recipes for vegetarian mains and even meat-free sides!

I have one more recipe to throw into the Thanksgiving mix – a simple and cheesy dip that is a perfect starter to have around while everyone’s mouths start salivating over the irresistible cooking smell coming from the kitchen. The base is creamy and then it is layered with red wine poached figs for an elegant twist – the sweet from the figs and savory from the goat cheese is addictive in the best way possible.

I prefer this dip with fresh cut veggies (your body will thank you later) but it is also great served with toasted flat bread or homemade crackers. Make sure you pick super fresh and vibrant vegetables for the tray as they are going to be a shining piece of the flavor. I picked an array of carrots, homemade crackers, romanesco broccoli, watermelon radishes, grapes (more to cleanse your pallet between bites rather than dipping), and celery. Feel free to get creative with your tray and pick what you find looks the freshest at your grocery store. Also, make sure you pick vegetables that have different colors, textures, and size to create a show stopper appetizer tray.

Goat Cheese Dip With Red Wine Figs recipe below:

Goat Cheese Dip With Red Wine Figs

A simple and flavorful goat cheese dip that is perfect for your next party!

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: Vegetarian

Author: Shelly Westerhausen

Ingredients

1 pint of fresh figs (about 6 large or 8 small), quartered
1 cup dry red wine
2 Tablespoons sugar
1 cinnamon stick
dash of salt
4 ounces of goat cheese
1 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped chives + more for garnish
Salt / Pepper
An assortment of veggies , crackers, and chips

Instructions

Combine the figs, red wine, sugar, cinnamon stick, and salt in a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Let simmer, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 15 minutes or until the figs has absorbed the red color (I like to keep my figs a little firm but feel free to let them simmer for longer if you'd like them to absorb more of the wine flavor).
Remove from heat and strain.
Whisk together the goat cheese, sour cream, and chives and transfer to serving dish.
Top with poached figs and chives.

Apricot Barbecue Sauce [Vegan Option]

September 14, 2014ALL, Sauce, Side0

In a hurry? Click here to JUMP TO RECIPE!

Well, the first week into being 25 has been quite the unfortunate whirlwind; It’s bizarre how this crazy world works. Two Fridays ago, Wyatt and I were enjoying our last day at the cabin with an early morning canoe trip. The air was slightly crisp, the water completely calm, and not a soul was in sight; the whole experience reminded me of a family summer vacation we took when I was 7 up to the boundary waters for a week of backpack camping. The feeling of awe and excitement that I felt as a little kid on that trip was all rushing back to me that morning as I scanned the rocky shores that drifted by parallel to the canoe. All these memories from the trip that I hadn’t thought of in at least a decade were coming back — bathing in the ice cold Canadian waters with endless wilderness as our backdrops, stopping for lunch on islands along the canoe route, giggling as my brothers attempted to chase a family of moose, and watching the sunsets over the wild wilderness along the shores of our campsite. On that early morning canoe trip, I felt overwhelmed with gratefulness that I was able to have those experiences growing up and so proud that motion of paddling felt more natural than driving a car. That morning, I was thinking of the family I had spent that canoe trip with: my mother whom had grown up in the city but had come to love the wilderness due to marrying my stepfather, my brother who can get me more annoyed than anyone on the planet but who I suddenly missed terribly, my stepbrother whom I had drifted apart from almost a decade earlier, and my stepfather who was always so strong and the leader of the bunch on our outdoor adventures.

Rosemary & Garlic Smashed Purple Potatoes

June 12, 2014ALL, Appetizer, Side, Snack0

In a hurry? Click here to JUMP TO RECIPE!

These Rosemary & Garlic Smashed Purple Potatoes are an easy but flavorful side dish perfect for any type of meals.

The posts are starting to dwindle down to once a week around here while the weather warms up and I take more and more breaks from my computer. I’ve had more evenings filled with evening hikes and less evenings spent wrapped in a blanket on Pinterest. I sometimes think I need to stay focused and spend less time wondering but I’m mostly just enjoying the much needed break from the interwebz.

Did I tell you I inherited a boat? It’s a sweeeeeeet 1961 vintage, turquoise, motor boat that fits 4-6 people on its dark wood seats. It’s old and has needed a lot of work but we spent all last weekend cleaning it out, adding new lights to the trailer, replacing the gas tank, and getting it back into a usable state. It’s in pretty darn good shape for being 50 years old since my dad has housed it in the garage for the last 30 but there are still a few minor tweaks still needed before we can hit the water. All hard work aside, it’s been a fun summer project that has helped us get our hands dirty and reminded us of the rewarding benefits that come with physically putting effort into something.

…View More

Greek Goddess Celebratory Nachos

April 1, 2014ALL, Entree, Side0

In a hurry? Click here to JUMP TO RECIPE!

These aren’t just any nachos – these are celebratory nachos! These are ‘I just got nominated for a Best Food Blog Award’ by Saveur Magazine and am gonna treat myself to nachos and ice cream for dinner. I still remember the first time I voted for Saveurs BFBA three years ago and felt like I had such a strong opinion on who should win every category because I knew one blog per category. And I remember the first time I saw Oh, Ladycake’s badge on her site and was like ‘Wow. That would look mighty nice on VV’ (ha!). Fast forward several years and I can honestly say I follow 80% of the blogs nominated and consider a large portion of them dear blog friends of mine.

I guess what I am trying to say is that, if you are feeling it, you should hop on over and vote for VV in the ‘special diet category’ on Saveur’s site. But honestly, its okay if you don’t because I’m just happy to be a part of the club and mentioned among so many talented writers and photographers. I’m thinking of it as a win-win since I’ll be munching on Laura’s Quinoa Onion Rings if The First Mess wins and this Orange Chocolate Tart if Happyyolks is sent to Vegas.

These nachos are like no nachos you’ve probably ever munched on before. According to Food52, the most important elements for nachos are quality ingredients and strong layering ethic. We’ve got both of those bases covered here. These are a mix between eating a greek pita sandwich and a faleffel burger.

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Naturally Dyed Pink Meringue Cookies with Blood Orange Curd [Valentine’s Day Edition]

February 2, 2014ALL, Side, Snack, Sweets0

In a hurry? Click here to JUMP TO RECIPE!

Last year I waited until the very last minute to do a Valentine’s day post so I figured we’d just get this out of the way this year. Yup, it’s February so it’s totally acceptable to start talking in the rhythm of a haiku and dreaming in red and pink.

I’m starting to feel like this sweets thing is never going to end. There was the month long baking marathon of festive cookies that leads up to Christmas. And then my boyfriend and best friend both had birthdays in January (which means 2 cakes each. Hey, it’s the one month out of the year I have an excuse to make a cake so I tend to go a little overboard). And now it’s february which is yet another excuse to eat chocolate covered everything and pink tinted sugar. So, I guess what I am trying to say, is that after this Valentine’s Day post I’m going to cool it on the sweets. No, I’m not doing it for you – I know you enjoy every sugar laden treat I post on here. I’m doing it for myself because you can’t feel in control of your health when you are on a constant sugar high. Ya know?

I’m jumping all over the place with this intro but there is so much to cover in such a short amount of time (+an over-share of photos = an unnecessarly long post so stay with me!).

There was so much inspiration from all over for this recipe. First off, I’ve been dying to make Linda’s Blood Orange Curd that she posted on her site The Tart Tart since the blood oranges finally started pouring into the Midwest. I halved the recipe and manipulated it a little bit to fit with the amount of egg yokes leftover from the meringue. All I can say is…Damn, I am SO bummed I halved that recipe. It was the perfect amount to fill the meringue bites but I really wish there was leftovers to lather all over pancakes or toast or oatmeal or whatever else would be within reach. This was my first try at curd (and my first experience tasting it homemade) and I’m completely hooked. It’s a wonder I’ve gone all these years without it. Move over jam – citrus curd is my new #1.

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Chocolate & Spiced Chai Biscotti

December 24, 2013ALL, Breakfast, Fall, Side, Snack, Sweets1

In a hurry? Click here to JUMP TO RECIPE!

These chocolate and chai biscotti are perfect with your afternoon cup of coffee or for lazy mornings in bed with a pot of tea for breakfast.

MERRY CHRISTMAS [EVE] (or, to all of you who don’t celebrate Christmas, HAPPY TUESDAY!). I love Christmas eve just as much as I love Christmas day. This is because, growing up, my parent’s were divorced so we always had Christmas with my Father ‘s family on the 24th and then had ANOTHER Christmas with my mother’s family on the 25th. I never could relate to those kids who were so excited to get to open ONE present on Christmas Eve to hold them over – I always received DOZENS of gifts on Christmas eve followed up lots more gifts on Christmas day. As I’ve aged, I’ve toned down a little (just a little!) on my excitement for a double dose of gifts but have learned to find joy in so many other wonderful aspects of having two Christmases in a row. Double the santa cookies. Double the Christmas movies. Double the Yule log playing in the background on your tv (speaking of that, I’ll be playing Lil Bub’s yule log video this year – if my family doesn’t think thats too weird).

But, to be completely honest, this biscotti has nothing to do with Christmas and I really just chatted about Christmas Eve because I’m just so darn excited its finally here. This biscotti is actually about having 11 days off of work in a row – which is the longest vacation time I’ve had in 2013. It’s about finally having lazy mornings after lazy mornings of sipping coffee in bed and enjoying a favorite magazine while munching some biscotti. It’s all about mastering the technique of getting the biscotti soggy enough in your coffee that it doesn’t crumble all over your sheets but firm enough that it’s still crunchy when you take that first bite. But don’t worry, it’s okay if it takes you a few days to master this technique – we’ve still got loads more days off ahead of us!

Chocolate & Spiced Chai Biscotti recipe below:

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Milk Stout & Sea-Salt Caramels

November 25, 2013ALL, Appetizer, Side, Snack, Sweets2

In a hurry? Click here to JUMP TO RECIPE!

These beer-infused Milk Stout & Sea Salt Caramels are the right sweet for all your holiday gatherings. Each individually wrapped candy is made with Left Hand Milk Stout.

To speak the obvious, the holidays are upon us! We’ve got Thanksgiving and the start of Hannakuh this week. And Christmas is exactly a month from today. Are you ready? Yeah, me neither. So even though I have not got around to getting gifts and roasting a giant tofurkey, at least I won’t come empty handed because I’ve got these caramels!

These little candies are the perfect accompaniment for all your holiday gatherings. Going to a Thanksgiving where the host has already agreed to make EVERYTHING? Bring these instead of (or along with) that bottle of wine – it’ll be more personal and they are so perfectly petite that you don’t have to feel guilty about munching a few down before the big feast.

Or these would be wonderful to have on the table during a winter gift wrapping party (am I the only one who has those? It’s really the best excuse to make mulled wine and listen to Christmas records with friends). Or to bring to that ugly sweater party. Or really just to have out on the table all December long while you prep for the holidays.

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Hosting A Vegetarian Thanksgiving

November 21, 2013Adventure, ALL, Appetizer, Bread, Drinks, Entree, Fall, Salad, Side, Sweets3

(Although I wish this was my own feast that I was muchin’ down on, it is not. As a change of pace on VV, I’ve borrowed most of the photos in this post so please click on the images to check out more beautiful photos from the original authors)

I’m a total planner. Anytime my boyfriend mentions he’d like to go on a trip somewhere, I’ll have a full day by day itinerary wrote up and emailed to him by the following evening. He usually has forgot he even mentioned anything by the time he receives the email but I know he has to smirk a little in that moment he opens it to find days (usually by the hour) planned out with restaurants, museums, sights, road stops, forests, and campsites. At least, I know I smirk a little when I re-read those emails. I don’t realize I’m doing it but I’m being exactly like my father in those moments. He would take us all (my brother, my three cousins who lived with us, and my step-mother) on a two week vacation every August when I was growing up. For the months leading up to it, he would pull out the atlas after dinner and compare tourist books (this was before the internet was a real big thing) to what was along the route. I remember how playful he always was in those planning moments and he’d tease me with comments like ‘should we go gambling in Vegas or take that 7 mile hike all uphill to see the rock that resembles a monkey head?’ (as if either of those things were appealing to a 10 year old).

Most of these trips I plan are just ideas – tucked away in email folders – never to actually be carried out. Sometimes I wonder if I have more fun planning adventures then actually taking them. There is just something comforting about these plans being there – comforting in the sense that if we did ever decide to sneak away to the Smoky Mountains or Lake Powell or Montreal at the last second, we wouldn’t miss a thing because I’ve got an itinerary for that!

Anyhow, I bring this story up because I planned out Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is sort of like a trip – you spend months planning and prepping only to have it carried out in one big meal. The funny thing is I’m not even hosting Thanksgiving this year. We always have Thanksgiving at my parent’s house up north and all I do is pick out a few recipes to make the day of and demand a Tofurky. However, even though I’m not hosting Thanksgiving, I still made a Thanksgiving menu. You know, just in case I ever feel like throwing a Thanksgiving dinner on a non-Thanksgiving holiday or something? Okay, that sounded crazy. I just mean that I did it because I enjoy planning. Planning can be a hobby, right?

So, to get to the point, if you are looking to host a Vegetarian Thanksgiving this year or just still need a few ideas on some sides, here is how I envision the perfect Vegetarian Thanksgiving:

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Savory Pumpkin Hand Pies

November 19, 2013ALL, Appetizer, Entree, Side, Snack3

These little pumpkin-filled pocket pot pies (aka hand pies) are far better than any dried-out Thanksgiving turkey you were served as a child.

Being a vegetarian at your boyfriend’s family Thanksgiving can be madly intimidating. Or going home and explaining to your family for the first time that you no longer will be eating your aunt’s legendary roast. Although it’s never fun having to repeat yourself over and over to every person at the gathering about why you aren’t diving into that meat, it’s something all of us vegetarians (and vegans!) have had to endure. Instead of spending your entire evening avoiding eye contact with everyone in the room in an attempt to avoid that ‘dietary needs conversation’, whip up a batch of these hand pies to win everyone over. No meat lover will miss the meat in these little pockets of savory deliciousness and they might just agree that these would make a better main course (or appetizer or side or all 3).

Although eating a giant turkey for Thanksgiving is ‘traditional’, I say the hell with it! Let’s make our own tradition!! You aren’t constrained to eating that one meat that is ‘traditional’ and you can play around with any food you enjoy. And, in my opinion, I think these little pockets of pot pies are better than any dried out turkey I was served as a child.

Hop on over to DeSmitten Design blog for the full recipe and learn more!

Blueberry Pistachio Parfait with Quinoa Granola and Maple Cashew Cream [Vegan]

September 1, 2013ALL, Appetizer, Breakfast, Sauce, Side, Snack, Vegan0

There is so much fall going on around Pinterest these days; I find it to be both appalling and kind of exciting. Maybe it’s this streak of 90 degree weather or my longing for copious amounts of curry in my stomach or the desire to wear knee high socks but I am feeling ready for it. [Heck, maybe I even already bought a can of organic pumpkin for vegan fall baking].

My brain feels so fried from this heat that I’ve managed to stumble into a mundane food routine of salads for lunch and veggie sandwiches for dinner. That is about it….Well, almost it. The other summertime food that has been a regular lately is greek yogurt and homemade granola. So much so that I am starting to think we may need to take some time off from each other soon or we may not be able to stay friends.

Thus, in an attempt to keep yogurt off my long list of hated foods (right next to beets and jello), I decided to try cashew cream in my breakfast parfaits. I originally made the cashew cream to lather on eclairs (…more on that in the coming days) but haven’t looked back at yogurt in weeks.

The cashew cream only takes a few minutes to whip up and usually lasts me 3 to 4 servings of breakfast. It’s sweeter than yogurt but not so much that you feel guilty about enjoying it for breakfast. Feel free to enjoy with whatever granola you have on hand but I highly recommend trying out this quinoa version. The toasted quinoa gives the granola a crunchy texture unlike any kind of granola I’ve had before. And it’s a complete protein so you’ll be really ready to start your day right. ‘Nuff said?

Blueberry Pistachio Parfait with Quinoa Granola and Maple Cashew Cream

Inspired by Gourmande in the Kitchen & Cashew Cream adapted from Oh, Ladycakes

For the granola:

1 cup tri-colored quinoa (or 1/2 cup red + 1/2 cup white), rinsed super well
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1 Tablespoon coconut oil
2 Tablespoons maple syrup
dash of cinnamon & nutmeg
vanilla bean, seeds removed and pod discarded (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
1 Tablespoon of coconut oil (or any baking oil you’d prefer)
2 Tablespoons honey (or more maple syrup to keep vegan)
1/2 cup pistachios, divided & lightly crushed

For the maple cashew cream:

1/2 cup cashews, soaked in water overnight
4 dates, pitted
2-3 Tablespoons maple syrup (depending on how sweet you want to make it)
about 1/4 cup water

1 pint blueberries

Submerge cashews in water and let soak overnight.

Remove pits from dates and let soak with the cashews 30 minutes prior to making the cream.

Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Combine the quinoa, rolled oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, and the vanilla bean seeds in a mixing bowl. Fold in the oil, maple syrup, and honey. Transfer to a baking sheet and spread out as much as possible. Cook for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to keep from burning. After 30 minutes, add 1/4 cup crushed pistachios to granola and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.

Drain cashews / dates and place in a food process or blender. Add the maple syrup and 1/4 cup water. Blend. If too thick, gradually add more water a tablespoon at a time until a desired consistency is reached (I like mine at the consistency of greek yogurt – thick and sustainable but a little fluffy).

To assemble: Layer the cream followed by the cooled granola followed by blueberries and garnish with crushed pistachio and cinnamon.

Goat Cheese Polenta with Basil Almond Pesto & Pan Fried Chickpeas [For one]

August 21, 2013ALL, Entree, Side, Snack, Top Ranked Post32

Wyatt is off at a Black Sabbath concert tonight . No, I’m not sure why – he’s not a 60 year old fan or a metal head of any kinds [but this is beside the point]. The point is that I’m here alone tonight. I decide to have a sort of girl’s night…with myself. Yoga, red wine, and a chick flick (Bridesmaids to be exact…hey, don’t judge! Everyone ALWAYS references it and I have no idea what they are ever talking about). This is a special treat because I usually get suckered into alien, death-centric, action flicks and a case of beer.

This also meant I was on my own for dinner this evening. Any normal American would have probably just got Chinese take-out but I was excited by the thought of not having to worry about another person’s needs / preferences. Both polenta and chickpeas are two things Wyatt isn’t really that crazy about – and I totally disagree. I personally don’t think there could ever be anything wrong with a big bowl of corn creaminess that takes on the subtle flavor of whatever cheese you decide to melt into it. And as for chickpeas – give me them anyway you’d like: blended, roasted, sautéed, or panfried.

Needless to say, I’ve settled in for the night with this big polenta bowl and my boxer dog, Tuko. If you need us – we’ll be over here watching some girls relieve themselves in wedding dresses because of some bad Mexican food they ate (gross! Sorry, Bridesmaids reference?)

When pan frying the chickpeas, make sure you use just a big enough skillet so that they can lay evenly in one layer but not so big that you have to use half your bottle of oil. And as for the pesto, I’ve been into using kale (since it grows like wildflowers in my garden) but went with basil on this one since it’s finally basil season – feel free to use whatever leafy green you have on hand!

Goat Cheese Polenta with Basil Almond Pesto & Pan Fried Chickpeas

1 cup dried polenta
4 cups water
1 ounces goat cheese (or more if you are like me)

1/2 cup raw almonds
3 garlic cloves
1 1/2 cups fresh basil
1/4 cup parmesan
1/2 cup olive oil
salt / pepper

2 cups cooked chickpeas (from a can or from dried)
2 teaspoons cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
salt / pepper
oil (I used olive but you could use vegetable as well)

In a food processor or very powerful blender, combine all the pesto ingredients and blend until a smooth paste forms. Add more olive oil if needed to reach your desired consistency. Set aside.

In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add polenta and lower heat to medium low. Whisk continuously until the polenta has become thick enough that it won’t stick to the bottom. After fifteen minutes of simmering, stir in the cheese and remove from heat. Cover to keep warm and set aside.

In a large cast iron skillet, heat a thin layer of oil over medium. Add chickpeas, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté for ten to fifteen minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pan with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel lined tray. Let sit for a few minutes to crisp up.

Mix the polenta, chickpeas, and pesto all together and enjoy!

Homemade Enchilada Sauce

July 8, 2013ALL, Sauce, Side, Vegan0

I don’t know about you but the term ‘enchilada sauce’ doesn’t exactly conjure up fresh and summery images. It mostly makes me think of that dark, musky aisle in the already dingy international grocery store where you have to brush the dust off the can before picking it up and throwing it into your cart. This off-putting imagery doesn’t happen with all Mexican food. In fact, tamales conjure up wonderful memories of watching my step-mother whipping up several dozen in our kitchen when I was little. And tacos make me think of fresh grilled pineapple and strong margaritas. But I don’t know – there’s something about that enchilada sauce…something about the old-fashioned design on the cans that make me think it’s been on the shelf since that art was in style in the 80s (maybe even 70s?).

That was until I decided to start making my own. And everything changed in the enchilada world for me. It doesn’t taste like the enchilada sauce from the can…it taste so much fresher. And though it’s not the flavor your tongue is expecting at first, you will glow with the realization that this is how enchilada sauce is supposed to taste. Fresh and spicy. A little tomatoey, peppery, and full of heat. Of course, the amount of heat you’d like to create is up to you. Different peppers will result in different spice levels so go ahead and get acquainted with what peppers work for you (okay, so maybe that link is a little over-kill but it’s sort of fun to realize that all these peppers exist..)

This recipe isn’t challenging but there are lots of little steps – mostly simple ways to remove the outer peels from the tomatoes and peppers to create a creamier sauce. Don’t feel discouraged by the wordy directions below – it won’t take long and you’ll have deliciously fresh enchilada sauce in no time!

PS – Oh…and it’s vegan!

Homemade Enchilada Sauce

2 fresh red chilis, sliced in half with the seeds removed
1 1 /2 cups vegetable broth (I used homemade)
2 large tomatoes, cut a large X in the bottom of both
2 jalapeños (or 1 poblano pepper)
2 Tablespoons olive oil
1/2 red onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chopped oregano
salt/pepper, to taste

Add vegetable broth to a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Add chili peppers and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until soft. Remove from heat but DON’T drain the broth. Set aside.

Chard the jalapeños by placing them directly over a gas burner flame until blackened on all sides (or broil in your oven). Remove from heat and immediately transfer to a plastic sandwich bag. Let steam in the bag for about 15 minutes and peel the skins right off. Cut in half and remove seeds. Set aside.

Bring another saucepan full of water to a boil and get a bowl full of ice water ready. Add tomatoes and blanch for a minute or two or until the skins peel right off. Remove from heat and transfer tomatoes to the bowl of ice water. Peel tomatoes and then dice.

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic and sauté until translucent (about 7 minutes). Add tomatoes, tomato paste, chillis with the vegetable broth liquid, jalapeño, oregano, and cumin. Let simmer for 10 minutes and remove from heat. Once slightly cooled, transfer to a blender and blend until smooth.

Use right away or store in the fridge for up to four days.

Cantaloupe Caprese

July 1, 2013ALL, Appetizer, Side, Snack1

It’s July…just barely but still July. July means I’m entitled to consuming copious amounts of juicy, flavorful, plump tomatoes. And all the cravings that go along with it…cravings for say… salsa and tomato jam and bruschetta and Caprese salad. Yup, Caprese salad. That is what I’ve been craving the most. An excuse to buy those irresistible bite-size fresh mozzarella balls that end up half gone before you can even put them on a stick. And basil so fresh that you can still smell the herb on your fingertips from the leaves being picked only a few minutes earlier.

But…oh wait. There’s one problem. The tomatoes aren’t ready…they are plump and round but mockingly green. The green is a glaring reminder that they are so close…but not close enough. So what’s a girl to do when she impulsively bought a big tub of mozzarella thinking she’d come across heirloom tomatoes at the market? Eat them anyways, of course!

This is a sweet twist on the caprese salad appetizer that you so often times see around the later summer months. It’s still a juicy excuse to splurge on fresh mozzarella and douse your food in balsamic. It’s just a bit of a sweeter excuse.

vvvvvvvvvvvvvvvv

PS – Yes, I did take the time to make these into shapes so it spelled out ‘Vegetarian ‘Ventures’. To be fair, it was a rainy Saturday and I didn’t have much else planned (besides sunbathing at the lake…which I repeat…it was rainy). So, you obviously can just cut these up into little squares or use a mellow scooper to make them circles. Or take the time to cut out cute shapes using cookie cutters you obtained from an antique shop. Whatever suits your fancy.

Cantaloupe Caprese

makes about 2 dozen Caprese kabobs

24 chunks of cantaloupe (from one small melon)
24 fresh bocconcini (bite-size mozzarella) balls
24 basil leaves

2 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar
12 kebob sticks (I broke mine in half for smaller kebobs)

Let kebob sticks soak in water for an hour before preparing.

Stick two of each cantaloupe piece, bocconicini, and basil leaf on a kebob stick in whatever order you’d prefer. Repeat with the rest of the pieces and sticks.

Drizzle with Balsamic vinegar before serving.

Doesn’t get much easier than that, huh?

Searchable Saturdays

June 29, 2013Adventure, ALL, Salad, Side, Sweets0

…And time for some inspiring links from around the web:

1. ADVENTURING // Headed to the west coast at the end of July to join a friend on her cross country road trip. I’ll be tagging along on the part from San Fran to Portland which means I’ve been going a little crazy with planning. We are definitely hitting up the Redwoods and ocean. Anyone have any recommendations for San Fran / Portland / anything in between?!

2. INSPIRING // Look at this salad from Gourmande in the Kitchen! Don’t all the wonderful colors, textures, and shapes make you want to eat this for every meal? Love Love Love feeling inspired by vegetables. Now, the only problem I need to get over is my dislike for beets…they are so beautiful…why can’t I just like them?!

3. CREATING // I’ve been familiarizing myself with dreamweaver and Issuu a lot lately in hopes to start making my own VV online magazine / zine. This has triggered hours and hours of flipping through magazines and online design books in the name of “research”.

4. CRAVING // Milkshake Strawberry Banana Cake?! Yes, please. This ‘milkshake turned baked goods’ trend has been popping up all over Pinterest but no one has done it quiet as beautifully as Hungry Rabbit.

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend planned! I’d like to do some adventuring to the lake but the forecast calls for storms all weekend. It might be a sign that I’m overdue for a day getting lost in the kitchen…

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Side

Cherry Mint Polenta Bruschetta recipe below:

Winter Panzanella Salad With Cornbread Croutons recipe below:

Goat Cheese Dip With Red Wine Figs recipe below:

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Chocolate & Spiced Chai Biscotti recipe below:

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(Although I wish this was my own feast that I was muchin’ down on, it is not. As a change of pace on VV, I’ve borrowed most of the photos in this post so please click on the images to check out more beautiful photos from the original authors)

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Blueberry Pistachio Parfait with Quinoa Granola and Maple Cashew Cream

Inspired by Gourmande in the Kitchen & Cashew Cream adapted from Oh, Ladycakes

Goat Cheese Polenta with Basil Almond Pesto & Pan Fried Chickpeas

Homemade Enchilada Sauce

Cantaloupe Caprese

makes about 2 dozen Caprese kabobs

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