14 Things to Eat and Drink in Seattle

Seattle is one of the best food cities. And if you love fresh oysters, it may just be the BEST food city! I find west coast oysters to be the best oysters in the U.S. and Seattle is the place to find them. There's a lot to eat in this seafood town, but I've narrowed the list down to my Top 14 musts! 

Salmon Chowder at Pike Place Chowder  

It's a staple, it's delicious, and it's in Pike Place Market so you can walk around after you finish your bowl of soup and take in what's truly one of the best markets in the country.

Oysters at Elliott's  

When you walk up to this place, you'll think it looks touristy but when you walk in, your mind will change. Sit at the oyster bar, get a glass of champs, and devour the absolute most divine oysters. 

The "Eat the Entire Menu"  Tasting Menu at No Anchor 

This experience is seriously one of the best food experiences we've ever had. You literally get a bite of every single thing on their menu, and they're some of the best, most creative bites of food you'll ever eat. If you've been eating all day and plan to maybe eat more later, share the tasting. It's a good bit of food!  

Drinks at The Nest  

Serious views from up here with delicious cocktails to keep you entertained while you look around. Go when they open, as it gets crowded later in the afternoon and at night.  

 Beers at Shortys  

When I think of Seattle, this place is what I picture. Grungy, gritty, and laid back, Shorty's is a dive bar with pin ball machines, arcade games, and casual eats. There's plenty of local beer on tap, and playing games while you sip is just an added plus. 

Flagship Grilled Cheese at Beechers  

Best. cheese. ever! Try the samples and order the Flagship Grilled Cheese - its serious business. We also had the Mariachi Mac and Cheese that was to die for, but if you have to pick one, go with the Flagship sandwich! And don't forget to leave with a container of cheese curds to snack on all day. Also leave with some good melting cheese to make this incredible fondue recipe by my friend over at Jen Reviews. https://www.jenreviews.com/cheese-fondue-recipe/

More Oysters  (and the Bread and Butter) at The Walrus and the Carpenter 

This place is an absolute gem! It's located in Ballard - a super cool area, a little drive aways from the heart of the city, but I highly recommend a day or at least afternoon in this area. The oysters here are the absolute best and the bread and butter is the perfect accompaniment. Go as soon as it opens - it gets packed and a line forms out the door. 

Cocktails at Barnacle

After you've had your share of oysters at The Walrus and the Carpenter, walk next door to Barnacle and have a cocktail - this place is an apéritif and amari bar. I had one of the most delicious cocktails of my life here and the atmosphere is so cute and cozy. 

 Pasta at Staple & Fancy

After your cocktail at Barnacle, walk here for a food finale that ends with pasta and great wine! The staff here is fantastic, the pasta is delicious, and the wine paired with it is perfectly on point! I love the casualness of the open kitchen atmosphere with just enough elegance and coziness that also makes it romantic. 

*Side Note: You could almost do a little foodie hop in the "little box" these restaurants (Walrus, Barnacle, and Staple) are housed in. They're all located next to each other inside an old building in Ballard. And these aren't the only ones - there are several others with cool themes and menus (next door at Marine Hardware, they were having Lobster and Hip Hop Night - it was completely sold out, and by the looks of it, I understand why. It looked at blast!)

Brunch at Chinooks or Saltys  

Both of these brunches are so divine, it's hard to choose but they're different so here's the breakdown: Chinooks across from Ballard on Salmon Bay, so if you spend the day there, it's the perfect late morning meal. It's right on the marina and the big window views of the boats make you feel so relaxed and happy. The food is so extremely great here - I can't express it enough. Salty's is located across from the city on Alki Beach with breathtaking views of the skyline. It's a brunch buffet with every piece of seafood and brunch food imaginable so there's a lot of eat here! 

 Bread with Roasted Garlic AND Pasta at How to Cook a Wolf 

Yall... I've never had bread this good!!!!! The set up is incredible. So are all the small plates and you'll just drop dead over the pasta. All so good!!! Atmosphere is sick too... the best 80s new wave tunes are playing!!! So everything... so so everything!!! 

 All the Dumplings, Noodles, and Small Plates at Revel and Joule

Pick one or go to both!!! Two Asian fun influenced restaurants - and they're related so if you just pick one, don't feel bad. I can't choose though... both so good! Maybe do one for lunch and one for dinner!!

 The Set Lunch Menu at Sushi Kashiba 

This lovely little place is tucked away in a corner away (but close enough) from all the chaos of Pike Place Market. Go here for lunch - there's a set menu and the outdoor seating is so discrete and quaint. Best sushi yall!!! 

 Mac and Cheese Dumplings at Pel Meni Dumpling Tzar

Omg yall!!! This place was a surprise. Not planned. Needed late-night food. And socks blown off!! Everything was great. The mac and Cheese Dumplings were a stand-out. Great cocktails too!! Not sure why I needed any more at 1am? But worth it!!  

Weekday Dinner Plan: Jan 29 - Feb 1

Monday - January 29

Roasted Red Snapper with White Balsamic Tomatoes  

Start your week of extra clean and healthy - but delicious. This fish is to die for, and if you can't find snapper, any white fish will be great!  

Tuesday ​- January 30

BLT Chicken ​

A twist on a BLT - but low carb. This chicken is so good it could easily become a regular household staple! ​

Wednesday - January 31​

​Shrimp Puttanesca with Angel Hair

Light and healthy pasta with flavor that comes at you in every bite! ​

Thursday - February 1

Broiled White Chicken Chili

It's up to you how much cream and cheese you put in this broiled, delicious chili, but it's almost the weekend so do as you'd like! 

3 Must Serve Game Dips

Dips are easy, they're fun, and people love them at parties - especially Super Bowl parties. These 3 dips are literally the only dips you need at your Super Bowl party!  

 Buffalo Hot Wing Hummus 

A combo of hot wings and hummus  - this dip is healthy and you won't be able to stop eating it. 

 Cream Taco Dip

I can't say enough about this dip. Once you pop you can't stop takes on a whole new meaning. When I say this is the absolute best dip you'll ever eat in your life, I'm not lying. This dip is beyond. And it takes about 10 minutes to make!  

Truffle Dip with Duck Fat Fries  

The fries are crispy, the dip is truffly and creamy, and your guests will flip over this appetizer!  

CHEERS TO A HAPPY SUPERBOWL!!!

Broiled White Chicken Chili

I adore a good White Chicken Chili, and I also adore a good French Onion Soup. This is a fun little spin on both, and you can make this as healthy or cheese and cream filled as you'd like! 

2 cans great northern beans - drained and rinsed

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 large onion - diced

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

3 garlic cloves - minced

3 Serrano chili peppers - seeded and diced

1 tablespoon ground cumin

2 teaspoons dried sage

1 teaspoon ground coriander

4 cups low-sodium chicken stock

2 cans green chilies

1 rotisserie chicken - meat shredded, skin and bones discarded

1/2 cup fat-free or reduced-fat sour cream

1/4 cup heavy cream (optional but recommended)

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg

Shredded Fontina cheese

Shredded Parmesan cheese

Preheat oven broiler to high.

Place half the beans in a food processor and purée until chunky - not smooth (you can also do this with a potato masher). Set aside.

In a soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion with a dash of salt and pepper and cook until soft. Add the garlic, chili peppers, cumin, sage, and coriander. Stir together and cook for a few minutes. Add the chicken stock, canned green chilies, shredded chicken meat, sour cream, heavy cream, nutmeg, the puréed and whole beans, and about 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir together and let come to a slight boil. Taste for seasoning and add more salt and pepper if needed. Ladle soup into oven-proof soup bowls. Top with as much or as little cheese as you desire. Broil until cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.

  CHEERS TO HAPPY EATING!!!

Weekday Dinner Plan: Jan 22 - 25

I'm cheating a little this week - there's an unhealthy dish on here but I'll include tips on how to lighten it up! I start your week with super healthy, so Thursday can be a (little) cheat day! 

Monday - January 22

Chopped Cajun Roasted Chicken Salad with Bacon and Apple

This salad is to die for - without the guilt! Roasted chicken, apples, and just a tiny bit of bacon and goat cheese make up this partially chopped salad.  

Tuesday - January 23

Baked Cauliflower and Sausage Parmigiano  

Low-carb but with all the comfort of a baked dish. This is clean eating in the winter at its very finest!  

Wednesday - January 24

Proscuitto Wrapped Pork Tenderloin with Fig Glaze  

This is one of the most popular recipes on my blog - and once you make it, I think you'll understand why! Eat it with some roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple spinach salad. 

Thursday- January 25

Loaded Mushroom Truffle Lasagna 

Cheat day! Really though - there are still ways around this. It's possible to "cheat" and not completely blow a diet - believe me, I do it weekly. Tips: make sure you exercise this day, only eat one portion (on the smaller side), and when cooking, use skim milk, less cheese, and extra mushrooms. 

Loaded Mushroom Truffle Lasagna

One of my favorite meals mama used to make was good ole fashioned lasagna. This one is a little bit different than the traditional - using white sauce, truffle butter, and lots of mushrooms. You can lighten this dish up by using skim milk, less cheese, and more mushrooms - either way, it's absolutely delightful!

8 ounces regular Lasagna noodles

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound mushrooms (I like to use a blend of different kinds)

Kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper

1/2 cup ricotta

1 1/2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella

1/2 cup shredded Parmesan

3 tablespoons Truffle butter (1.5 ounces)

1/4 cup flour

2 1/4 cups milk (skim for lower fat/calories)

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Truffle oil - optional

Heat oven to 400 degrees. Place noodles in an 8 x 12 baking dish and cover with the hottest tap water you can get from your sink. Soak for 25 to 30 minutes until soft then drain and set aside. If wavy part of noodle still seems too crunchy, add more hot tap water for about 5 more minutes - drain and set aside. Dry baking dish.

Heat olive oil over medium heat and add half of the mushrooms with a dash of salt and pepper. Cook until just soft then add the rest of the mushrooms with a dash of salt and pepper. Cook until just soft. Take off the heat and let slightly cool. Add the ricotta, half the mozzarella, and half the Parmesan. Mix together and set aside.

In another pan, heat truffle butter until melted. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes. Slowly add the milk, whisking everything together. Let come to a slight boil and thicken - it should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Add the nutmeg, about 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper - taste for seasoning. Add more if needed.

Build the lasagna. Spoon a thin layer of the sauce in the bottom of the pan. Layer half the noodles, half the sauce, and the mushroom mixture. Repeat for the top layer with the rest of the noodles, the rest of the sauce, and the rest of the mushroom mixture. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes or until golden and bubbly. Serve with a drizzle of truffle oil, if desired. 

Chopped Cajun Chicken Salad with Bacon and Apple

I love a restaurant that chops their salads all together. The only thing that's ever bothered me about a loaded salad is, you can't get a bite of every ingredient on one forkful. But with a chopped salad, you can! This is one of my favorite versions. 

Dressing:

1/2 cup honey

1/2 cup Dijon mustard

2 lemons - juiced

2 tablespoons mayonnaise

Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper

Salad:

1 tablespoon smoked paprika

1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon creole salt

1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning

1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic

1/2 teaspoon white pepper

1/4 teaspoon cayenne

1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders - cubed

1/2 loaf french bread (or similar) - cubed

1 tablespoon olive oil

Kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper

6 slices bacon - chopped

8 cups mixed greens or spinach

2 Granny Smith apples - diced

1/2 cup goat cheese - crumbled

1/4 cup dried apricots- chopped (optional)

Make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon, lemon juice, mayo, and a dash of salt and pepper. Set aside.

Heat oven to 400 degrees. In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, Italian seasoning, creole salt, lemon pepper, granulated garlic, white pepper, and cayenne. On a sheet pan lined with foil, toss the cubed chicken with the spice mixture. On another sheet pan lined with foil, toss the bread cubes with olive oil, a sprinkle of kosher salt, and pepper. Place both sheet pans in the oven. Bake croutons for about 8 to 10 minutes or until golden. Roast chicken for about 10 to 12 minutes or until cooked through.

While chicken and croutons are in the oven, fry the chopped bacon. Drain and set aside. On a large chopping board or clean surface, pile together the lettuce, half the chicken, half the croutons, half the bacon, and half the apples. Drizzle half the dressing over the top. Using a large knife, chop the entire salad together until combined and all large pieces are small (* if your chopping board isn't big enough, you can do this for each salad separately). Scoop chopped salad into bowls or on plates. Top with the remaining chicken, croutons, bacon, apples, and dressing. Sprinkle goat cheese and apricots on top.

Real-Life Fridge Organization

If I see one more Pinterest or Instagram post of a unrealistic organized refrigerator, I may boycott social media all together. In the last couple of months, I've seen a million posts on how "influencers" organize their fridge - and it's all an impractical, big fat lie. From perfectly stacked rainbow-top Tupperware and chalkboard labeled canisters to immaculate rows of coconut water and stacks of 3 different types of lettuce, these people can't actually think we believe their fridge looks like that all the time? I'm a very organized personal chef who's learned the ins and outs of organization in restaurants and at home to make a food business flow smoothly, and my fridge doesn't look like that. Your fridge doesn't look like that. And no matter what you see on Instagram, their fridge doesn't look like that either.

I want to share with you, realistic tips to keep your fridge clean and organized. Yes, you will notice I do label a lot - sometimes it's fancy, sometimes it's not. Yes, my fridge is very clean - I clean it out and scrub it regularly to keep my business orderly and to keep myself sane. And you'll also notice, I do keep neat rows of similar products together - I practically live in my kitchen and need to know exactly where everything is at all times. Does my fridge get junky and messy? Yes, but when it starts to clutter, I will often take everything out and reorganize. It really doesn't take that long, ya'll. And you'll feel so much better every time you step foot in your kitchen to cook a meal for your family. Here are my tips!

Scrub Quarterly

This sounds like a hassle, but it will take you about 30 minutes. Every few months, I take everything out of the fridge and clean the shelves, drawers, and built-in storage containers. Most fridges have removable shelves - if yours does, remove them and wash and dry them like they're dishes. Also scrub underneath them and around the edges of where they've sat - food can find it's way into those cracks. If they can't be removed, scrub them with soapy water and wipe them with anti-bacterial spray and paper towels. 

Purge every Week

This is the part I struggle with until I pull two week old meat out from the back of the fridge, then I realize how disgusting it is. At the end of the week, go through and throw away anything you haven't eaten and don't plan to eat. Also take a look at your produce - if it's starting to go bad and you're not going to use it right then, chunk it. This will take you about 5 minutes, and if you do this every single week, you will keep a clean fridge. I promise. 

Keep "Like" Items Together

On my fridge shelves, I line my wine together, cocktail mixers together, creams and milks together, etc. I have one, small designated shelf for my sauces, jellies, and jams. My drawer is for cheese, hummus, olives, and any small containers of what I plan to consume that week. I have a produce basket where I keep all my fresh veggies and herbs. I keep all the fats I cook with on one of the fridge door shelves - Crisco, butter, lard, bacon fat. Another shelf is for specialty jars - sun-dried tomatoes, pickles, peppers, cuttlefish ink, etc. Another shelf is for all sauces and condiments - mustard, mayo, peanut sauce, soy sauce, etc. And the list goes on. If you keep similar items together, your cooking will be a breeze. 

Buy Produce Containers

Plastic baggies work great too, but I love my little produce containers for leftover onions and tomatoes. They last longer in those containers and look better in your fridge, plus you'll be able to find them easier than a stack of plastic baggies. So you know if you have something in one of them or not, mark them with a piece of tape and the date. 

Keep Drinks Separate

Drinks can take up the majority of the room in your fridge, leaving you no room for food organization. I say, they need to be stored  separately all together - this will keep kids out of the way while your cooking and guests will feel more comfortable grabbing a drink if they don't have to get into your food supply. If you have room for it (even in another room like the laundry, garage, or a closet), investing in a separate fridge is completely worth it. Mini bar and drink fridges are also a great home addition and very inexpensive. If you don't want to buy another fridge, just keep a designated shelf or drawer for drinks only in your current fridge. We have a drawer that I'm pretty sure is for produce but we keep all our drinks in it. It's separate from the fridge doors so it's perfect for parties - guests know exactly where the drinks are, and they don't have to open our fridge full of food every time they want to grab a beer.

Label, Label, Label

I label and date everything - and I mean everything. I learned this in the restaurant business, took the simple idea, ran home with it and never looked back. My labels don't always look like a Pinterest post, but they work like a charm when trying to keep an orderly fridge. Anything that lasts a long time and I know will be in my fridge awhile, I'll go the cutesy label route - it does look better and makes you feel so neat and so tidy when you open your fridge. For leftovers and anything I freeze, I go the Scotch tape and Sharpie route. Everyone has plastic tape and a permanent marker - move them to a drawer in your kitchen and label your food. It's a game-changer when it comes to organization. And make sure you date it. For anything I freeze, I put the month/year. For anything leftover that I plan to eat that week, I put the month/day. 

Freeze Everything you Can

You'd be surprised how many meals actually taste better after they've been frozen - soups, stews, sauces, stocks to name a few. I keep my freezer stocked - always - and on busy weeknights, pulling out a bolognese or soup from the freezer can be a lifesaver after a busy day. The key is to keep it organized and label and date everything. Bring old items to the front each time you add something, so you're more likely to use the older stuff first. 

Have More Than One Fridge

I touched on this already with keeping drinks separate, but having an extra fridge or freezer is one definite way to stay organized. I have an extra fridge our laundry room. In it, I keep all my previously cooked frozen weeknight meals, prep work labeled items for photo shoots and clients, already prepared catered meals, and all the food I plan to cook for a party or gathering. My main fridge in the kitchen is only for drinks, basic go-to cooking products, our weekday meal prep, and leftovers. We also have 2 wine fridges - a white and a red - where we store our nicest bottles. 

Hopefully, that covers it, but if you have any questions I didn't answer about fridge organization - or any kitchen organization, please reach out!!! Cheers to an organized kitchen! 

Weekday Dinner Plan: Jan 15 - 18

For the first weekday meal plan, I'm starting with my favorite go-to, repeat recipes - plus a new, most delicious chicken noodle soup!  

 Monday: Jan 15

10 Minute Balsamic Salmon with Tomato Avocado Salad

Perfect for a Monday night - this meal will take you 10 minutes or less and its so, very healthy. Low cal, low carb, all good fats - the only way to start a new week! 

Tuesday: Jan 16

Healthier Chicken Noodle Soup  

It's supposed to snow again in Memphis on Tuesday but this is perfect for any weather! Add less noodles for low-carb. Add more veggies for a little more healthy! 

Wednesday: Jan 17

Flank Steak with Chimichurri over Cauliflower Mash

This is one of my favorite recipes ever and it happens to be low-carb, super healthy, but super hearty and filling. I could eat this every day - and the best part? The cauliflower and Chimichurri are quick, easy, and can be made a day ahead so you'll only have to grill the steak the night-of! Just let Chimichurri come to room temp and heat mash in the microwave before serving! 

Thursday: Jan 18

Seafood Pasta with Smoked Oysters

Absolutely to die for - smoky and filled with protein! Use whole wheat noodles - or don't! It's almost Friday and you've earned a bowl of pasta! 

Healthier Chicken Noodle Soup

I keep chicken noodle soup in my freezer all winter long. It's perfect for cold nights, snow days, and when a cold sneaks up on you this time of year. During the week, Tres and I strive to make a few healthier changes to our diet, so by using chicken breasts (not the whole chicken), whole wheat noodles, and extra veggies, this soup is a little lighter but still just as comforting. 

Stock:

3 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts (about 4 1/2 pounds)

2 roughly chopped carrots

1 celery head top cut off - with leafy greens

1 onion - chopped

5 cloves garlic - peeled and smashed

5 bay leaves

1 tablespoon lemongrass paste

3 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning

2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

2 chicken bouillon cubes

Soup:

5 sliced carrots

5 sliced celery ribs

1 large Parmesan rind

3 cups whole wheat (or regular) egg noodles

1 cup Parmesan cheese

Juice of 2 lemons

4 tablespoons minced fresh parsley

3 tablespoons minced fresh basil

2 tablespoon minced fresh mint

Make the stock. In a large stock pot, add the chicken breasts, carrots, celery, onions, garlic, bay leaves, lemongrass paste, lemon pepper seasoning, Italian seasoning, and bouillon cubes. Cover with 4 quarts of water. Bring to a slight boil, then let simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 40 to 45 minutes. Remove the chicken from the soup and set aside to cool. Strain the soup and add back into the pot.

Make the soup. Bring the stock to a boil and add the carrots, celery, and Parmesan rind. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until veggies are slightly soft. Bring to a high simmer. Add the noodles and cook until al dente. Shred the chicken meat into the pot, discarding the skin and bones. Add the lemon juice, parsley, basil and mint. Stir together and serve with crusty bread.

Cheers to happy eating!! 

Kitchen Holiday Gift Guide from a Home Cook, Turned Professional Chef

If you're making your list and checking it twice, don't forget kitchen gifts are some of the best, most appreciated, and most used gifts you could ever give someone. This list is everything I use, everything I love, and nothing I don't. If you have someone on your list who's an avid cook or someone who enjoys entertaining guests, this list should be your go-to! Heck, everyone needs kitchen stuff, so make these ideas your go-to for anyone on your list! 

 *** Note: I have linked directly to the exact brands/makes I own and love. However, some of my stuff is old - in that case, I found the closest to what I have! Happy shopping! 

Essentials

Many cooks may already have a lot of the things on this list in their kitchen. However, there may be a few things they've never thought they needed before that I absolutely think they could use! 

Good quality set of knives 

I can't stress enough, a good set of knives will change a person's cooking. I've had people tell me they hated to cook, got good knives and started to love it. Mine are Wusthf and I love them. Most used/necessary knives: chef's knife or cook's knife (smaller hands will do just fine with a cook's knife), large serrated knife, basic paring knife, and serrated paring knife. 

 Good quality set of pots and pans 

Simple, every cook needs these and they'll last a lifetime. Mine are Calphalon Contemporary and they do just grandly! Most used/necessary ones: small and large saucepans, small and large sauté pans, large pot (for boiling pasta).

 Le Creuset large Dutch oven

if I could rank these, this may be at the top of the list of what I use most in my kitchen. Soups, stews, slow-cooking - one of these is better than any slow-cooked you could ever have. Goes from stove to oven, I use this at least 3 to 4 times a week - get it in a neutral color, and it's great stovetop decor.

Indoor grill pan 

Another favorite - especially if you don't like to grill outside when it's cold (or in my case, when it's hot). I use this constantly. Tip: tell them to never wash it, only rinse and wipe after using - over time, it gets a real "charred, Grilled" taste. Mine is Calphalon. 

 Sheet pans

One can never have too many of these - all sizes please! Bonus gift-giving points if you include foil and parchment sheets with the gift. 

 Immersion blender

One may not think one needs this, but I'm here to tell you, every cook will eventually be glad they have one of these. It's perfect for soups, gravy, or anything that needs to be blended without having to transfer it to an actual blender! Mine is KitchenAid. 

 Cast iron skillet

This is a southern staple, and it will be used for everything from homemade biscuits to stir fry! Mine is Lodge. 

 Kitchen towels

A set of cute, fancy along with a set of simple, standard is the perfect gift. My cute, fancies are front Williams-Sonoma and I use them constantly for photo props and kitchen decor. My simple, standards are from Kroger, cheap as dirt, and sop up messes and dry dishes quickly. 

 Silicone spoons

I use these more than any utensil spoons I own. I have tons of wooden spoons and unless I'm making a recipe where I have to scrape the bottom of the pan, I use my silicone - they're light in my hands and no stick! You'll never use anything else to scramble eggs again, either. 

 Tongs set

From grilling to pasta boiling, tongs are a kitchen must. I have a set in three sizes and use them all regularly. 

 Food processor

I have two and use them both equally as much. A smaller one is perfect for dressings and small prep, and a large one can be used for just about anything - sauces, pasta making, large dish prep work, etc. My small one is Food Network brand and my large one is Hamilton Beach Stack and Snap (I love that you have to have it locked before you can process). Note: both of these were given to me as Christmas gifts from Mama, and I use them more than you can ever understand! 

Prep bowls

Small and medium glass prep bowls will change a cook's life. These are great for chop-prepping and refrigerating - then all can just be thrown into a pot. Meal prepping makes cooking easy peasy, and you can't prep without prep bowls.

Plastic Food Stroage Containers  

Speaking of food prepping, in the restaurant business, "deli containers" are a go-to for food prep. I use these CONSTANTLY to prep food that needs to be stored more than a day, as well as for leftovers, and freezing soups and stocks. You can get a huge supply of these at restaurant stores or on Amazon.  Bonus gift giving points if you include labels. 

Mini Scoop

Never underestimate a tool this small. I think they're referred to as "cookie scoops," but I don't call them that because I use them for anything I need to make all the same size - meatballs, truffles, cupcakes, etc. I use this tool on the absolute regular. 

Splurges

This list actually happens to be my favorite - not because it's a little more on the expensive side, but because I actually use the stuff on this list more than you would think! Everything on this list I consider one of my all-time best purchases (or gifts given to me). 

Nespresso Machine and/or Milk Frother

 This is everything on earth, and if you get this for a coffee fan, they'll think you're the best human on earth. I have the separate espresso machine and frother, but you can buy combo machines - there are lots of options. I've had mine for about 5 years so I'm looking into getting one of the newer versions soon but these machines are top-notch, last a really long time, and the coffee is absolutely to die for. With one of these machines, you feel like you're at a cafe in Italy or France every time you sip your coffee! 

Vitamix

 If one who cooks often is going to have a blender in their home, it should be this one. Yes, it's expensive but it'll be used constantly and forever. I very rarely go for the most expensive brand - unless it's worth it - and in this case, it is. I can't stress enough how necessary a Vitamix is for an avid cook. 

KitchenAid Stand Mixer

 Another must-have that's not exactly cheap but lasts a lifetime. It makes baking a breeze but it can be used for so much more than that. I use it most to make homemade pasta - see below. 

Pasta attachments for KitchenAid

 Once one gets the hang of homemade pasta, they'll never go back! The pasta attachments on the KitchenAid stand mixer make homemade pasta a breeze. 

Extra large wood chopping block

 Ok, this is actually my life, and I wouldn't know how to function without it. My wood chopping block sits in the exact same spot on my kitchen counter (right beside the sink so I can wipe crumbs directly in for easy cleanup), and I do all my chopping and prep work right on it. I clean it as if it's the actual counter because it's so large. I cannot live without this - I can't even imagine getting out a chopping board every time I need to chop or prep something... that doesn't even make sense to me anymore. I have 2 - Boos and Williams-Sonoma - both extra large. 

High-quality wine glass set

 For the wine drinker in your family, this can't be beat. If you've ever drank wine out of good-quality, thin glasses, you'll never think it tastes the same again out of regular, thick stemware. We like Riedel. 

For Fun

These are great gifts for the home decorator or entertainer. These gifts are fun and put a touch of style and elegance into someone's home and/or entertaining. 

Cute coffee mugs

 Anthropologie always has the best ones. 

Beautiful (white) plates/dinnerware sets

This is the perfect gift for anyone who likes to entertain. White is ideal because it presents food and photographs the best. Plus, it's elegant and timeless - white never goes out of style.  

Copper cocottes 

Tres went copper crazy for me on our 7th anniversary (traditional gifts: copper and wool), and I absolutely died over these most adorable mini copper baking pots. Whoever you give this too will not stop ohhhing and ahhhing over these!

Copper anything

 Copper is just beautiful and presents so well as a gift! I was thrilled with all my copper gifts from Tres. He got all mine from Williams Sonoma - cheese knives, pitcher and goblets and serving tray, and mugs. 

White serving platters

One can NEVER have too many white serving platters. I don't care who is on your holiday list or how many white platters they already have, they need more. They'll use them! All mine are Vietri - you can buy online but I find lovely ones at Home Goods as well. 

Cheese boards/knives

 There are so many beautiful, unique ones - wood, stone, glass, etc. You can get this for anyone and they'll love it! I love the custom wood boards from local Memphis carpenter - Zachary Call Custom Goods. You can find him on Instagram @zacharycallcustomgoods. 

Antique stemware

 My antique glasses are used more than any glasses in my home. Mixing and matching is fun too, so they don't all have to be one set. When guests come over, we always use these to serve drinks and the compliments are never-ending. *I didn't link because you have to hunt for these guys - find them at local antique stores. 

Anything pottery or rustic

I love my pottery plates from Pottery Barn. And my Mississippi McCarty's Pottery is a showstopper - rustic pottery is perfect for the kitchen or entertaining. 

Cute salad serving sets 

Because they'll be used. Also, they photograph beautifully - for your Instagram loving friends. Williams-Sonoma and Anthropologie have beautiful ones! 

Cocktail ice cube trays

 If there's a cocktail lover on your list, you can't go wrong with sphere or big cube ice molds. Ours are from Williams-Sonoma and are so easy to use! 

Cookbooks

I am thrilled anytime I get a cookbook as a gift. Any of Ina Garten's are great! 

 AND MINE!!!!! It's discounted on Amazon Prime! So full of the best holiday recipes and recipes you'll cook again and again because they're that good! I pull my own cookbook out 5-10x a week... its true!!! My clients, friends, and family can't get enough and request the same recipes again and again! 

Best-Ever Couples Halloween Costume Ideas

It's almost the biggest day of the year (at least to me it is)... Halloween! If you and your sweet don't have your costume yet, I have a few ideas to get you going. Most are from mine and Tres' costumes over the years, but some of my friends have shown to be extremely creative with their get-ups as well. Hopefully, this will get you inspired for some last minute costume ideas! 

The Hangover

Any characters from this hilarious movie would work, but we went with Alan and Jade + with our new addition, Xav made the best baby Carlos!

David Lee Roth and Eddie Van Halen

This was one of my favorite costumes, as I’ve been a Van Halen fan since I was a very young child. Seriously, my diary from when I was 7 talks about my love for the band. Not to mention, Tres dressed up like Eddie when he was in 4th grade so we both felt this costume was a must - especially after the passing of Eddie this year. You could do this epic duo or any favorite rock stars!

Zombie Couple and Baby  

Its all about the makeup, wigs, and accessories with this one. The baby and stroller were Tres' ideas and they topped it off! 

Classic Frankenstein and Bride of Frankenstein  

You can't go wrong with anything this classic. I found this dress at Goodwill for $15 and it fit me like I was the one who got married in it! Thrift stores always have plenty of wedding gowns to choose from and a black suit and green paint is all your date needs!

The Sonic Couple  (or any funny commercial)

These commercials always made us laugh, so we took it to the Halloween costume level. What topped it off, were the car chair backs we found at a thrift store... we glued ribbon on it to make it look like seatbelts!  

John McCain and Sarah Palin (or any presidential candidates or president)

These are always funny because whether you love or hate the politician, every person you pass will have an opinion on your costume, and it's usually complete with laughs. We may not all agree on politics, but when it comes to Halloween costumes, everyone is in good spirits. 

Beavis and Butthead

Everyone loves a good throwback, and you can beat a good 90's one. This is - hands down - our best costume to date, and it was also the cheapest one! I could be this every year because it gets so many laughs.  

Elliot and Gertie from ET

Such a classic movie that everyone adores. The key here is accessories, yet again. The flower pot, bicycle, and ET doll top it off! 

Carrie and Tommy (1978) 

One of the best horror movies of all time, and one of my favorite costumes. Do y'all see Tommy looking up at the bucket of blood that dropped all over me? In total character!  

Studio 54 Couple (Roller Girl) 

This is a costume we threw together at the last minute because we had been out of town the week of Halloween, but we didn't let it be completely basic. I found old-school roller skates and wore them out all night. It was both challenging and really, really fun!  

The "We Have Too Many Parties to Keep Putting on Makeup Every Time" Costume

If you're hitting up several parties in a week, you may just want a quick, east, no-fuss costume. Tres refused to put on the green makeup again, and I didn't really want to paint my face either, so we went free style to the second party that week. 

Pee Wee Herman and Miss Yvonne  

The hit of the party last year, my brother and sis in law killed it with this throw back from Pee Wes's Playhouse. And I mean, look at those shoes! Hilarious!  

Wayne and Garth from Wayne's World

Another throwback from our good friends Cristen and Michael. I just absolutely loved this costume idea, and they did it so flawlessly! 

Star Wars

So many characters to choose from here. It helps if you have a Brussels Griffon to be Chewy though :) 

Beetlejuice and Lydia

My brother and his wife are a couples costume force to be reckoned with every year. This one is great - but you have to do the makeup just right!

Dumb and Dumber

An epic movie that makes an easy and funny costume!

Back to the Future

Another epic, timeless movie that makes for a fun costume choice!

Andrea's Cooktales Cookbook - Order Now!

Order on Amazon!!

Format: HARDCOVER, Journal Ribbon included to mark pages

Description: Andrea's Cooktales is an heirloom style, keepsake cookbook with journal pages. Andrea tells stories from her own kitchen and dinner table, encouraging readers to think of their own stories and write their own recipes in the book. She says, "I encourage readers to write their own family recipes inside, jot down their favorite food memories and stories, take notes in the "notes" section on each of my recipes, and pass it around to family and friends to also write in - I want this cookbook to be an heirloom for generations to come."

Andrea is a self-taught cook, turned professional chef, so her recipes come from the point of view of a home cook, so the ingredients and directions are very relatable and easy to follow along. Her recipes are what she calls "next-generation southern" - fun and fundamentally southern with a modern twist using fine, fresh, and sometimes unique (but easy to find) ingredients. She says, "This book is for every home cook who enjoys eating clean and healthy but also likes a splurge every now and again. I'd say the recipes are part healthy, part naughty. Some are for quick weekday meals, while others are perfect for a loungey weekend at home. Some are easy as pie, while others are a bit challenging (but I promise, not hard) for when you want to test your skills in the kitchen."

"My goal with this book was quality over quantity. I only chose recipes that I am obsessed with - my very best ones. They've all been tested over and over and over again. Every recipe in this book is a staple in my kitchen and completely divine - this is food I could cook a million times over and never get sick of - my friends and family agree and I think yours will too!"

SUMMARY:

• Cooktales is the first-ever heirloom cookbook journal to be savored, splattered, and shared

• New-Generation Southern recipes are unique, fun, and easy to follow

• A story is behind every recipe in this book and meant to inspire your own memories and stories

• Notes sections, cooking/food questions, and designated journal areas to write stories and family recipes to be passed for years to come

• Learn new recipes to be added to your weekday and holiday rotations

• Recipes both naughty (for splurging) and nice (for healthy eating)

The Ten Commandments of Tailgating

To most southerners the month of September means one thing – football season. The weather is starting to cool off, weekends are spent outside, and tailgating becomes a Saturday ritual. Everyone loves a good tailgate before any big game, and hosting one should be fun and simple. Whether you’re attending a game to watch your favorite team play or you just want to have a tailgate party in your backyard, these rules will have you in the best shape!

1. Thou shalt bring food that is easy to pack. Use plastic storage containers to put snacks in and bring platters. When you get there you can transfer the food to platters for a nice display.

2. Thou shalt create an upbeat music playlist. Include tunes that will get everyone pumped up for the big game, and don’t forget to bring a cordless speaker so everyone can join in on the fun.

3. Thou shalt set up games. A great tailgate always includes entertainment and games are the perfect addition. Corn Hole, Washers, and Ladder Golf are some of the most popular.

4. Thou shalt provide a way to watch live games. Some tailgaters go as far as bringing a TV to watch games, but you can make it easier by streaming games from your iPad or computer. 

5. Thou shalt pick up food items from the store. Don’t spend hours in your kitchen cooking everything. Instead, choose a few recipes to cook and rely on the store for everything else.

6. Thou shalt seek out a good location. Before the big tailgate, find a good place to have it. Get there early to ensure your ideal space is available.

7. Thou shalt clean as you go. Bring a large bin to discard empty platters - they’ll be out of sight and you can wash when you get home. And always have a visible garbage can for guests to use.

8. Thou shalt bring plenty of napkins and towels. Tailgate food can get messy so you can never have too many napkins for guests and towels to clean.

9. Thou shalt prepare the night before. Make life easier by prepping most of the food and packing the décor the night before. You won’t have to wake up as early and the day will go smoothly.

10. Thou shalt not stress. A tailgate is meant to be fun – not overwhelming – even for the host. Your guests will have fun regardless of what you cook or bring, so enjoy it.

And if all else fails... set up a mimosa bar with buckets of beer and everyone will be happy!  

Cooktales Travels: Barcelona & Cadaques Food Guide

Barcelona has been on our list for several years, but for some reason we always ended up somewhere else. Quite frankly, when planning new holiday spots, we would choose other places over Spain – I now shake my head at that. Since we’ve been, I can’t even begin to explain how happy and grateful I am we finally went.

We heard for years from friends that Spain is the most amazing place and Barcelona was one of the best cities in the world, and it proved to be true once we experienced it. As a matter of fact, it’s flown to the top of our “favorites” list. Cadaques, a fisherman town that's an easy 2 hour drive from Barcelona, is reason enough Spain is one of our new favorite places. If visiting Barcelona I cannot stress enough – make time for a little visit to Cadaques. That little town made our trip complete perfection. I’ll talk more about Cadaques later, but I’ll start by giving my Barcelona must-eat, must-drink, must-do list.

Barcelona: What to Eat & Drink… and do along the way

El Quim de la Bouqeria

This amazing “restaurant” is in the middle of a lively market. Take a stroll through the market first to experience some of the most unique meats, fish, and food items you’ve ever seen. You can eat oysters right off the ice and try samples from different vendors. El Quim de la Bouqeria isn’t easy to find, but once you spot it, you’ll know you're at the right place. It’s a bar in the middle of the market with stools – not easy to find a seat but worth waiting out. The seafood and tapas is out of this world - this is the best lunch you’ll have in Barcelona. Get the oysters, oxtail risotto, and olives.

4 Gats in the Gothic Quarter

You’ll definitely want to spend time walking around the Gothic Quarter – it’s beautiful, dynamic, and there are lots of fun restaurants and bars to hop in and out of for quick bites and drinks while exploring. 4 Gats is a quintessential stop because it’s historic – a common working place for Picasso and Dahli. Worth grabbing a drink in here and taking in the past.

Grand Hotel Central bar

Not far from 4 Gats, the hotel bar here has some of the best cocktails – Tres’ mojito was literally the best one ever and my Aperol Spritz was over the top. There's a rooftop bar with some of the best views in the city, but you have to be staying at the hotel or have dinner reservations to go, however, the downstairs hotel bar was fantastic.

Paco Meralgo 

BEST DINNER IN BARCELONA. PERIOD. I could have eaten here every single night. The tapas is just ridiculous it’s so good. The razor clams here are still the best ones we had – and we ate them everywhere. The head-on fresh shrimp was delightful. And the Burrata is unique and melts in your mouth. Get reservations – you will definitely need them.

Tandem Cocktail Bar 

We went to this cocktail bar every night after dinner. Literally every night. The vibe is old-school, cozy and the bartender is so talented. There is no menu and only one bartender. Yes, you’ll have to wait a hot minute for your cocktail but don’t leave – you won’t regret waiting it out. The bartender will ask you what you like and go from there. These are masterpiece cocktails.

Quimet y Quimet 

Get there as soon as the doors open or you’ll be sorry. And don’t go here if you’re looking to sit down. This is one of the most recommended, authentic tapas places in Barcelona – the food comes out quick and the people pour in quicker. If anything, go for the salmon toast with truffle honey. Drink a red vermouth with soda for what my favorite chef, Jose Andres, calls “the ultimate tapas experience.” I agree.

Bar Marsella

The Hemingway fan in me will tell you to go here. It’s very divey and don’t expect fancy drinks – they’re known for their absinthe drinks that make every person drinking one look like they’re going to run out and be sick. We stuck to bottled beer and admired the old, authentic walls, floor, photos, etc. It feels very 1920’s and it’s worth stopping for a quick drink.

Rias de Galicia

The fanciest, priciest meal we had in Barcelona. It was a perfect dinner spot with a romantic, white-tablecloth vibe and delicious food. We had champagne and a mix of Spanish and French oysters to start – we favored the French ones, however, both were delicious. The octopus was smoky, paprika-spiced and extremely tasty. The raw, tartare-like lobster was different and delectable. This is an upscale, date-night place you'll want to dress up for! 

Tapas Crawl on Blai Street

JUST DO IT. This neighborhood, El Pablo Sec, is off the beaten path and if you like food a lot a lot, it’s a must-do. Spend an entire afternoon one day walking this street, jumping into different tapas places, and sampling everything. The number of tapas bars are never-ending and all the tapas sits open-air – you just walk into a place, pick out a few to several bites, find a table inside or outside on the patio, grab a drink, and eat your face off. This is a food lover’s dream.

Beach Bars and Paella at Xiringuito Escriba

Escriba is THE beach-side spot for traditional Spanish paella. I can’t recommend enough to set aside one day on your Barcelona trip for a “beach day.” The beach-side of Barcelona is like driving into a completely different city – you go from old-world charm in the city to a Miami-ish beach setting on the water in less than 10 minutes. I’m not the biggest beach person, so for me to recommend spending an entire day at the beach means you should probably do it.- This is THE beach-side spot for traditional Spanish paella. I can’t recommend enough to set aside one day on your Barcelona trip for a “beach day.” The beach-side of Barcelona is like driving into a completely different city – you go from old-world charm in the city to a Miami-ish beach setting on the water in less than 10 minutes. I’m not the biggest beach person, so for me to recommend spending an entire day at the beach means you should probably do it.

Barcelona Beach is a wee bit touristy and a little crowded – so we stuck to Nova Icaria Beach, a lively, sandy stretch with an endless line of beach bars and water-front chairs to rent. Choose chairs in front of the beach bars, and you’ll have servers bring you drinks right on the beach. I do recommend walking down to Barcelona Beach and all the way to the W Hotel (the one that looks like the sailboat hotel in Dubai), as there are even more beach bars, plus that hotel is a showstopper on so many levels. But before you get too far from Nova Icaria Beach, eat paella at Escriba – it’s beachfront, festive, and the food is yummy.

Palosanto in Gothic Quarter

Pork Cheek with Truffled Mashed Potatoes. That’s all I have to say about that. The other bites of food here are ok, but the wine list is superb and the pork cheek dish is reason enough to jump in, have a bite, then maybe go somewhere else.

Ultramarinos Barcelona

Omg this gin and tonic bar is just FANTASTIC!!!! Great late night place to slip in and grab a night cap... small space, great folks, amazing drinks. Another one of those great bars you can just tell the bartender what you like, and they'll fix you right up. These drinks came in the typical gin and tonic "fishbowl glasses" with heavy ice cubes and flavored with fresh spices, herbs, and fruits... quickly made us want to become gin and tonic drinkers on the regular 😬 We have refrained since we got home though... ha! But now we know how to make the best drinks!!

Brew Dog

Fantastic beer bar and atmosphere... loved the selection of craft brews. I even had an Elvis themed beer... The King is everywhere. You can't visit any city without seeing The King. ​

Cadaques and the Costa Brava

The Costa Brava is the coastal region of northeastern Spain that displays the most gorgeous landscapes from beautiful beaches and rocky cliffs to mountain scenery and boundless vineyards. If you make any daytrips from Barcelona to one of the little Medieval towns, unique beach towns, or divine wineries, you’ll more than likely drive much of the Costa Brava. However, I recommend spending a small (or large) part of your vacation in one of the lovely towns – Cadaques to be exact.

There are so many unique towns, vineyards, and beaches lining Costa Brava that you could choose from, but I am going to go ahead and tell you to book at least a two or three night stay in Cadaques – this is a place where you have to constantly pinch yourself to make sure you’re not dreaming. Now that I’m back home, Cadaques will cross my mind from time to time, and I still wonder if it was real, if it actually happened. I am sitting here in a trance as I write this because I still can’t believe how spectacular this place is. We are wine people, so anything with that focus will always be at the top of our list but imagine wine AND ocean.

​Picture this: a hotel that’s actually inside a winery, set atop a massively high mountain – down the rocky, cliffy mountain on one side, you have a quaint, colorful, picturesque fisherman town and down the other side, you have vineyards galore with a long stretch of wineries at the bottom of the mountain. No, you’re not dreaming, you’re in Cadaques, Spain. I never want to return anywhere – I always say there are too many places on earth to be seen – but Cadaques, I want to visit 100 more times in my lifetime. Not to mention, the people – look around Cadaques and you’ll see people living life simply the way it’s supposed to be lived. I’ve never seen people doing life so right than right here in this town. Here’s a list of what we did, where we stayed, what we saw, and what we ate. It couldn’t have been more perfect, so I would be more than happy for anyone to steal this itinerary.

Mas Molla Winery

On our drive from Barcelona we stopped here for a wine tasting – unplanned. I’ll be the first to tell you, this is not easy to find, but like all treasures, once found, so worth the journey. The winery started in the 1300s and is still ran by the same family – can you imagine knowing what your ancestors from the 1300s did for a living and continuing to live out the tradition?! One of the daughters gave us a quick little tour and tasting. Her English was better than our Spanish, but we all had to work at understanding each other. We bought wine for GREAT prices, and to gather our purchases, she took us into the caves, pulled the label-less wine bottles right off the stacked shelves, and boxed them up for us. It was such an authentic, unique experience – one that is engrained in my mind forever as one of my best travel memories.

Pals

This Medieval town is an Instagramer’s dream. The pictures you get from this stone-covered, charming little village are breathtaking. Tours are available, but we just walked around and enjoyed the scenery – it’s a quick stop, only taking an hour or two to see everything.

​There’s a great little restaurant at the bottom of the elevated town called Antic Casino. It’s quaint, cozy, and has a 3-course lunch menu with dishes off the charts. I had the BEST Squid Ink Paella I ever had – on this trip and ever. The mint soup for dessert was delightful, too!

Sa Perafita

This winery is also a hotel, and it’s seriously one of the best places we have ever stayed. You can look it up online, but the pictures don’t do it justice. This place is amazing on so many levels – wine (and friendly dogs to greet you) upon arrival, a fun and informative wine tasting, immaculate rooms with modern amenities, the most relaxing breeze and scenery perfect for enjoying a glass of wine or coffee outside daily, and their 5-star complimentary breakfast spread each morning is enough to make you want to live there.

Honestly, I have never wanted to live in a hotel, and I NEED this place to be my home. The owner also has a few restaurants around town that are superb and the recommendations and helpfulness of the staff are just wonderful. It’s also very reasonably priced, which is shocking for what you get with this place. The town of Cadaques is a scenic, easy 10-minute drive from the top of the mountain – this hotel is absolute perfection!

Enoteca MF 

We went here twice for the oysters, once for a large dinner spread – the menu here is just amazing. If you wait, you can snag a great water-front seat on their covered patio and people-watch all night.

Café Tropical

Late night (not too late – Cadaques is not a late-night town) place with the best music ever. We sat on the water-front patio, drank wine, and listened to the coolest band that played everything from 90’s rock to Dire Straits to Dolly Parton. I hope when you go, that same band is playing, but if not, this place is known to have great music all the time.

Boat rental 

We did a half-day boat rental and tooled around the Cadaques coastline – this was the best day of our trip.

We packed several bottles of wine, stopped at one of the markets for cheese and snacks, and had a little picnic on the boat. Not to mention, swimming in the Mediterranean was crisp, cool, and just as beautiful as anything in life could ever get. If you do this trip, I HIGHLY recommend renting a boat.  

Compartir

A must-do for dinner. This place is hip, cozy, romantic, all the things - with a really playful menu and great wine list. Try to sit outside – it has such a lovely ambiance.

Espelt Tasting Room

 On the other side of the mountain, on the way back to Barcelona, we stopped at Espelt Winery and had the most wonderful experience. We did an impressive tasting of about 7 or 8 different wines and the girl who helped us was so wonderful, friendly, and accommodating. The big glass windows you sit in front of gives you a complete view of their vineyards out front, and the wine was delicious. If I could change one thing (and when we go back), I recommend staying one more day and doing a winery day – there are so many on this stretch of road. We only had time to stop at one, but I'm  glad this is the one we picked! My favorite part of the day was when the gal pouring our wine found out we were from Memphis, the first thing she said was, “I love the Memphis Grizzlies – Pau Gasol is from just a few towns over.” SO NEAT!

Llanca 

Another wonderful little beach town just down from Espelt. If you’re hungry or want to explore after wine tasting, this is the place to go. Lots of cute restaurants and bars line the tiny beach. The town is known for the restaurant Miramar, but there are so many great little patio tapas places as well.

Tuna Poke Noodle Bowls

I've fallen in love with Tuna Poke over the last several years, and to my surprise, I learned it's just like making ceviche but in soy sauce and other goodies. The sesame noodles make this delicious appetizer a complete dish. Tres raved and raved when we had this for dinner the other night, so it would only be the nice thing to do to share it with y'all! I promise, you want this in your dinner life! 

Grocery list:  

Tuna: 

• 1 pound tuna - cubed

• 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce

• 1/2 cup chopped scallions, plus more to garnish

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 3 tablespoons peanut sauce (found in the Asian aisle at Fresh Market)

• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seed

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flake

• 1/4 cup chopped macadamia nuts

Noodles:  

• 12 ounces angel hair pasta

• 2 tablespoons sesame oil

• 1/4 cup peanut sauce

• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons peanut butter

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1 tablespoon rice wine or white wine vinegar

• 1 tablespoon sriracha

• 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger

• 2 cups seeded and thinly sliced red, yellow, or orange bell pepper

Directions:  

In a large bowl, add the tuna, soy sauce, scallions, sesame oil, peanut sauce, sesame seeds, pepper flake, and macadamia nuts. Stir together and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. 

Cook angel hair pasta in boiling salty water until al dente. Drain, rinse, and let cool. In a large bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, peanut sauce, soy sauce, peanut butter, sugar, vinegar, sriracha, and ginger. Add the cooled noodles and sliced peppers and toss together until completely coated in the dressing.  

Plate in bowls with noodles on the bottom, tuna on the top, and garnished with scallions.  

CHEERS TO HAPPY COOKING!!! 

150 Calorie Caliente Breakfast Sandwich

I love simple, healthy, low-cal, grab and go breakfasts in the morning. These sandwiches can be pre-made, refrigerated, and reheated in the morning. This recipe makes 4, so you'll have one Monday through Thursday. However, they take right under 10 minutes to make, so if you want them fresh, it won't ruin your morning.

Grocery list (4 sandwiches): 

• 4 English muffins

• Nonstick spray

• 1 cup egg whites

• 1 cup baby spinach - chopped fine

• Kosher salt and pepper

• 1/2 avocado - sliced thin

• Sriracha or hot sauce, to taste

Directions:  

Cut English muffins in half. Using your hands, scoop out and discard some of the bread on the inside (this is not compeletely necessary but will save you calories and carbs). Toast the muffins in a toaster until golden.

Heat a small nonstick pan over low heat and coat with nonstick spray. Add 1/4 cup egg white at a time and sprinkle the spinach (if using) over top with a dash of salt and pepper. Let cook until almost cooked through and flip with a spatula. Cook for about 30 more seconds. *You can also do this in a larger pan and pour in the entire cup of egg whites then when finished cooking, cut eggs into 4 equal servings.

Place eggs on the English muffins, folding over to fit the sandwich, if needed. Top with the avocado and sriracha or hot sauce.

CHEERS TO HAPPY EATING!!!

Low-Fat Poppyseed Chicken Quinoa Bowls

I was introduced to Poppyseed Chicken when I was in college at Delta State. Every Wednesday my sorority sisters and I gathered at the BSU for a great service and luncheon - it was a good mid-week pickmeup and the food beat the mess out of eating on campus. Poppyseed chicken day was always one of my favorites! This is a healthy spin on a classic! Low-fat, high-protein, and absolutely plate-scraping delicious! 

Grocery list (4 servings):  

• 1 whole smoked chicken (I love the ones from Whole Foods) - skin removed, meat shredded

• 1 cup cooked quinoa

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 shallot - sliced

• 3 cloves garlic - minced

• 2 (8 oz) packages mushrooms - sliced

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste

• 2 tablespoons Marsala cooking wine

• 2 cans low-fat cream of mushroom soup

• 2/3 cup fat-free sour cream

• 2 tablespoons poppy seeds, plus more for topping

• Pepper - to taste

• 12 reduced fat butter-flavored crackers - crushed

• 1/2 tablespoon melted butter or olive oil

Directions:  

In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken and quinoa. Set aside. Heat a large saute pan with the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the shallot, garlic, mushrooms and salt. Stir together until the mushrooms start to wilt. Add the marsala and saute a few more minutes until mushrooms are soft. 

Pour the mushroom mixture into the bowl with the chicken and quinoa. Add the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and poppyseed and stir together until completely combined. Taste and add salt and pepper to taste. Pour into 4 large ramekins and top with the cracker crumbs, butter or olive oil, and a sprinkle of the poppyseeds. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden and bubbly. 

CHEERS TO HAPPY EATING!!! 

Lavender Cocktail: 2 Ways

While it's the perfect herb for baking and cooking, lavender is a lovely flavor to put in various cocktails. This light, low-sugar lavender honey simple syrup can be made ahead of time, bottled, and stored in your fridge. It's great in coffee, tea, or in a pinch when friends come over and want a cold beverage. These two fruity, fresh drinks give you the option to have a cocktail or mocktail. Just close your eyes, sip, and imagine yourself in the middle of a lavender field in the south of France!

Lavender Honey Simple Syrup

Ingredients:

1 cup honey

2 cups water

4 fresh lavender sprigs

Directions:

In a medium saucepan, bring the honey, water, and lavender to a boil. Take off the heat, letting the liquid steep and cool for at least 15 minutes. Take the lavender out before the liquid changes color drastically. Bottle the syrup and store in the fridge to use at a later time or make these drinks.

French Lavender Sangria

Ingredients:

1/2 cup of strawberries - sliced

1/2 cup of Rainier cherries - pitted and halved

1/2 cup red raspberries

1 lemon

1 cup lavender honey simple syrup

1 cup rose Lillet - chilled

1 bottle sparkling rose - chilled

Directions:

Add the strawberries, cherries, and raspberries to a pitcher. Slice a lemon in half, and juice one half into the pitcher. Cut the other half into small pieces and add with the berries. Pour in the simple syrup, Lillet, and sparkling rose. Stir and serve.

Fig Lavender Spritzer

Ingredients:

5 large figs - quartered

1 cup lavender honey simple syrup

4 cups grape juice

1 large bottle Pellegrino

Lavender sprigs - for garnish

Directions:

Add the figs to a pitcher and pour in the simple syrup, grape juice, and Pellegrino. Stir and serve with lavender sprigs.

Vanilla Bean Whisky French Toast with Cream Maple Syrup

French toast was the first thing I ever learned to cook as a kid. With a lot of practice and tweeking over the years, I've created the best French toast ever: this recipe.  

Grocery list:  

Syrup  

• 1/4 cup maple syrup

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Toast

• 1 loaf challah bread

• 3 tablespoons flour

• 3 eggs, plus 2 yolks

• 3/4 cup half and half

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

• 1 tablespoon honey bourbon or regular bourbon

• 2 teaspoons vanilla paste

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Directions: 

Make the syrup in a small saucepan by whisking together the maple syrup, sugar, butter, and cream until smooth. Keep warm.  

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium. Slice bread into 8 - 1/2 inch pieces. In a large shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, eggs, half and half, heavy cream, bourbon, vanilla paste, sugar, cinnamon, and salt until smooth. 

Dip bread pieces in the mixture and turn, completely soaking on both sides. The pieces should be completely soaked - I let mine sit in the mixture for about 10 minutes. Butter the skillet and cook the bread for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until golden but stil slightly squishy soft in the middle. Serve with the cream syrup.