Month: April 2019

Food: Brunch Board Spread

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The other day I decided to create a spread – of a few of my favorite things and simply indulge while binge watching Hallmark feel good movies. I needed the night of cheesy stories to up the mood, and the platter of English cheddar cheese, Castelvetrano Green Olives, slices of salami, crackers, walnuts, strawberries and sliced Jazz apples did the trick – naturally paired with my favorite Cabernet. So – here you go – an idea I found here for that perfect brunch platter or an evening get-together with friends or family to simply celebrate, well….life. INGREDIENTS POTATOES + BACON 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved if large 2 teaspoons smoked paprika kosher salt and black pepper 8 slices thick cut bacon FOR THE BOARD 6-12 eggs, cooked to your liking 1 pound smoked salmon red onion, cucumbers, and radishes, thinly sliced 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup basil pesto, homemade or store-bought 8 ounces burrata cheese fresh fruit, lemons, and sliced avocados pitted green olives and or capers fresh basil, dill, mint, and chives, roughly chopped assorted bagels, naan, or bread, toasted assorted cream cheese …

Lifestyle: Best of Coffee Across America

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This morning while commuting to work, a woman got on the train and sat next to me and all I could focus on is the beautiful smell of coffee, and from the to-go cup, I couldn’t tell who and where she got it from. It didn’t smell like Starbucks or Pete’s but a brew so unique, I am kicking myself for not finding out what it was. On Friday while walking to the neighborhood grocers, I noticed a long line in front of a mom-and-pop coffee shop where my mother gets her blend especially made, and the beans bagged on the spot, and I smiled at the sign proudly announcing how they have been a neighborhood coffee house for over 50 years, and to be truthful, a part of our family for just that long. All this got me thinking about coffee shops, and how is it that they thrive no matter where. Of course opening up my own coffee shop has been a dream for the longest time and until then, here’s the best …

Fashion: Summer Wardrobe In Mind

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Although we seldom have a real summer in San Francisco, us locals make it a point to escape the fog and cold by heading to inland. Whether the wine country, a picnic by the river, even Lake Tahoe, we leave town to get our fair dose of sun and summer weather. And since I am a planner, here’s what I am thinking for this summer attire – neutrals and interchangeable accessories  

Food: Dinner Tonight – Lemon Chicken and Mint Sauce

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Chicken is always a good idea – especially if its the only thing left in the freezer a day before the weekly grocery shopping.  So, this recipe is perfect for tonight’s dinner, paired with a glass of my favorite Cabernet. INGREDIENTS 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite size chunks 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 2 teaspoons smoked paprika 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano 1 small shallot, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated zest and juice of 1 lemon 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes kosher salt and black pepper 2-3 cups cooked orzo or couscous, for serving 1 roasted red pepper, sliced 8 ounces feta cheese, cubed or crumbled sliced avocado, Persian cucumbers, olives, and basil, for serving SIZZLED MINT GODDESS SAUCE 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint 1 cup plain Greek Yogurt 1/2 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped juice from 1 lemon 1 jalapeño, halved and seeded 1 teaspoon cumin kosher salt {more} For dessert in case there is still room – consider this recipe     

These Fun Gift Ideas for Grads and Dads or Moms

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Father’s day is around the corner, or college graduation and this gift idea is one of the best if you ask me – maybe even go past the college bar sketch – and forward to other meaningful brick-and-mortar you feel the need to hang in your study, home-office, or (man/woman) cave of sorts and perhaps be able to commission the artist to expand in their craft  🙂 Either way, I am loving it. oh wait – there is more from this artist  

My Thoughts This Morning…

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I woke up this morning with thoughts of only one thing: Notre-Dame de Paris in the aftermath of the tragic destruction. A monumental house of worship for Christians, and a historical force which has brought millions of visitors each year to see first-hand how a structure that stood durable for over 800 years could have to this day, such a strong influence on culture and belief. I don’t think I have to tell anyone who’s been there and seen Notre Dame de Paris, how transformed we sensed ourselves to be by the magnificent house of worship, which still stands tall – no matter the severity of the destruction that spiraled out of control on April 15, 2019. Faith is a huge matter – in all sorts of difficulties; we must believe through every bad, there is some good, and in every good, there is the idea of rising above it all. I believe wholeheartedly, that Notre Dame de Paris has proven to us once again, that no matter what, believe, stay strong and embrace unity. …

Food: Cakes For Easter or Just Cakes

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I am an awful daughter – I didn’t realize it was Palm Sunday yesterday when a few days before my mother asked me to take her to church and I danced around the idea. Still feeling a bit under the weather, I told her I needed more (bed) rest and she graciously nodded without any mention of the religious holiday. But in all reality. Where has time gone? We are midway through April, and although I have a full calendar for the rest of the year, I cannot grasp the idea that the first quarter of the year is done with. Anyway, I promised her church this coming Sunday, which is Easter, and in the middle of it, offered up a cake I wish to make for her from this list of many. The trouble is – I can’t decide which one. I am a fan of carrot cake but that olive oil cake with…. is currently in the lead.