Month: September 2011

healthy cooking: artichoke ravioli

Recipe and photos by For the Love of Cooking.net  I found this recipe when I was searching for a pasta dish which, of course, had to be healthier than the norm.  When I read the ingredients I knew I had to try it. Sure enough it was delicious, especially with piled shredded parmesan cheese. Artichoke Ravioli with Spinach, Tomatoes, Mushrooms, and Squash: Artichoke ravioli (or flavor of your choice), cooked per instructions 2 tsp olive oil 1/4 red onion, cut into large pieces 1 cup of mushrooms, quartered 1/2 zucchini, diced 1/2 yellow squash, diced 1/2 cup of grape tomatoes 1 clove of garlic, minced 1 cup of baby spinach Basil olive oil Asiago cheese, shredded Fresh basil leaves Cook the ravioli per instructions (while the vegetables are cooking). Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and mushrooms and cook for 4-5 minutes or until softened. Add the zucchini, squash, and grape tomatoes then cook for 2-3 minutes before adding the spinach and minced garlic. Cook for an …

fall fashion: orange crush

Orange is an amazing Fall color but it is a hue that is sometimes challenging to pull off, especially if not carefully ensembled. I happen to love the color and based on my finds here, I am excited to report, I will most certainly incorporate the color into my fall fashion collection. 1. Halston Heritage cape-back silk crepe dress $445 2. Stella McCartney Kelly Wool-Twill skirt $695 3. J.Crew Stripped Jersey t-shirt $98 4. Prada d-frame acetate sunglasses $225 5. Kenneth Jay Lane Swarovski crystal clip on earings $95 6. J.Crew Canvas wedge sandals $230 7. Chloe Madeleine Leather Tote $2295 8. Bottega Veneta Intnecciato Leather I-Pad Sleeve $590 9. Burberry Brogue Print Silkscarf $395

describe yourself in three sketches or less

While playing on the web, my jaw dropped when I stumbled upon Inslee by Design here. As I scrolled through her collection of beautiful and colorful sketches, I found three which pretty much sum up who I am. The captions are simply my own interpretation of the sketches and have no reflection on Inslee original title for her work.

boutique hotel pick – hotel martinez – cannes, france

Right about now I begin to crave a trip to the French Riviera and a fantasy stay at the Hotel Martinez. I mean seriously, I don’t think I need to sell anyone on the idea of experiencing pure luxury and elegance, while getting the most golden tan possible and dining at some of the finest restaurants along the French Riviera. However,  I do want to point out one of my favorite 5-star properties in Cannes, Hotel Martinez as the choice hotel for romance and special occasion celebration or simply a place for rest and relaxation.  Of course the modern classic room decor doesn’t hurt either. Anyway, enjoy the photos and have a wonderful weekend.

healthy eating: creamy light mac and cheese

Who doesn’t love mac and cheese America? Sorry everyone else, but the thing is, mac and cheese is probably the most consumed food in the U.S., especially by folks with little kids and  those who are very young at heart. Of course, although delicious, the dish comes with a price to pay, because it is basically full of “probably” everything that isn’t good for you. Because of my family’s commitment to eat healthy, I  have stayed away from  making mac and cheese for the longest time, until of course today, when I decided to search for a healthier mac and cheese recipe, so that I could introduce this tasty dish back into my household. You can either go here to get the recipe or scroll below and if you happen to make it, please let me know what you think of this version? Ingredients 3 cups cubed peeled butternut squash (about 1 [1-pound] squash) 1 1/4 cups fat-free, lower-sodium chicken broth 1 1/2 cups fat-free milk 2 garlic cloves 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 2 tablespoons fat-free …