Friday Foodday

Oh thank goodness lovebugs, we made it. Happy Friday. Here are some of my favorite recipes this week.

Cowboy Hash Skillet
c/o Table for Two Blog

Ingredients

3 large potatoes, washed and cut into 1/2 inch cubes (it’s up to you if you want to peel them, I didn’t because it gives it a more rustic look)

1 medium green pepper, diced

1 medium red pepper, diced

1 small onion, diced

1 lb. chorizo sausage, casings removed

4 large eggs (one egg for each skillet hash)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

In a large skillet, cook the potatoes with 2 tbsp. of olive oil for 5-7 minutes until they start to get soft and the outsides are starting to brown. Then add in the green pepper, red pepper, and small onion. Cook until they’re soft.

Add in the chorizo and cook until the meat is thoroughly cooked through and veggies are completely soft, about 10 more minutes. Make sure to mix and stir all the ingredients together so they get coated with the spicy chorizo. Salt and pepper, to taste.

While the chorizo is cooking with the veggies, cook an egg sunny side up or however you like it. I cooked mine sunny side up because I liked the runny yolk atop of the hash. Set aside.

Once all the veggies and chorizos are done cooking, plate them in a large bowl or individual skillets (if you have them). Top the hash with your eggs.

Roasted Red Pepper & Goat Cheese Pasta
c/o Lauren's Latest

Ingredients
2 whole red bell peppers
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup fat free half & half
4 oz. garlic & herb goat cheese
2/3 cup grated parigiano reggiano cheese
1/2 cup artichoke hearts (optional)
1/2 lb. linguine, cooked to al dente
salt & pepper, to taste



Directions
Preheat oven to 500 degrees. Place red peppers on baking sheet and bake 20-30 minutes until peppers are charred. Remove from oven and cover with foil 10 minutes.
In the mean time, saute onions and garlic in olive oil 7 minutes or until tender. Pour in half & half, goat cheese, salt & pepper. Stir to melt goat cheese into sauce and keep warm over low heat.
Uncover peppers, peel off skin and remove stem and seeds. Chop into large pieces and place into sauce along with parmesan cheese. Stir to melt cheese and remove from heat. Pour sauce into food processor and puree, or use an immersion blender. Place back into hot pan and toss with cooked pasta. Taste and adjust seasonings. Top with more parmesan cheese, pepper, salt and parsley, if desired.



Grilled Garlic Dijon Herb Salmon
c/o Skinny Taste

Ingredients

• 4 garlic cloves
• 1 tsp dried Herbs de Provence
• 1 tsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• olive oil spray (I used my misto)
• 4 (6 oz) wild salmon fillets, 1" thick (if frozen, thaw first)
• salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
• 4 lemon wedges for serving

Directions

In a mini food processor, or using a mortar and pestle mash garlic with the herbs, vinegar, oil, and Dijon mustard until it becomes a paste. Set aside.


Season salmon with a pinch of salt and fresh pepper. Heat a grill or grill pan over high heat until hot. 


Spray the pan lightly with oil and reduce the heat to medium-low. Placethe salmon on the hot grill pan and cook without moving for 5 minutes.  

Turn and cook the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes spooning on half of the garlic herb mustard sauce.

Turn and cook 1 more minute spooning the other side of the fish with remaining sauce. Turn once again and let the fish finish cooking about one more minute. Note: the fish should have a total cooking time of about 9-10 minutes per inch. If your fish is thinner, reduce the total cooking time.

Transfer the fillets to plates and serve with fresh lemon wedges.

Pattern Purse

Yesterday we looked at some great red clutches, today let's stay with the purse topic and look at some great patterned bags!

Gap, Ikat Canvas Tote, $44

Loving the double strap on this tote. And the color and pattern combination is very casual and chic.

Last Call Neiman Marcus, Turn-lock cross body sequin bag, $80

So many great things going on here, sequins, color, pattern, hardware. Great little bag for the weekend.

Macy's, Red by Marc Eko Handbag Wound Up Tote, $49

A mutli color chevron tote! How great for spring?

Nordstrom, Tasha Caged Minaudière, $88

This clutch is downright tropical but in a great dressy way. The bamboo inspired closure is a great added detail.

Pattern is always fun to wear, especially when its with an accessory like a bag or scarf. 

Be fabulous today!

Ruffles and Flowers

Hey lovebugs! Happy hump day! We're getting there!

I love a great girly clutch and today we're looking a great red clutches with some extra flare. These bags have fantastic ruffle details that add an extra bit of interest to an otherwise small piece.

Nordstrom, Sandra Roberts Rose Clutch, $98

I'm obsessed with this bag. It's a great night out bag and the color options to choose from are endless.

Nordstrom, Ruffle Chiffon Frame Clutch, $78

These great petals remind me of the cherry blossom petals here in DC. The bow is a great touch.

Franchi, Taylor Red, $90

I really like the square look of this clutch and gold touches are really special.

Endless, La Regale 24997 Clutch, $75
This clutch reminds me of the bottom of a great skirt. This playful layering of fabric is fun and flippy.

Sometimes a sleek patent leather clutch is what an outfit calls for; but sometimes go for something a little more whimsical.

Be fabulous today!

Drop It Like it's Hot

The drop waist trend seems like it's everywhere right now; but how do you wear when you're not walking the red carpet? Let's look at some great options for right now when E! isn't knocking on your door.

Macy's, Nine West Dress, $67

I love the change in stripe direction on the waist and the short sleeves. I'd add a neon bauble necklace for a great pop of color.

Alice and Olivia, Stapen Drop Waist Tunic Dress, $78

Anyone else think this model looks like she's about to be attacked? Just me? Ok. Let's look past that. Great jersey material dress that's just screaming for sky high heels and a night out.

Modcloth, To Peach Her Own Dress, $87

Stay with me on this one; I'd unbutton at least four buttons and wear a great detailed lace cami underneath to break up the color. Maybe a straw floppy "Kentucky Derby-esque" hat.

Anthropologie, Marian Flapper Chemise, $34

A simple chic silk shift. Fantastic color.

I think the biggest advice to wearing a drop waist dress is trying it on first. Each dart and line runs differently and you really need to see it on and not online to decide if its right for you.

Be fabulous today!

Silver and Black

Happy Monday lovebugs,
We're back from another weekend and back to the grind. How was your weekend? I had a great brunch with Nikki, Rosa and Sarah yesterday, it's always great to get some inspiration from fellow bloggers.

Today I thought we would look at a great trend in watches: black and silver. It's so chic and easy to pair with any outfit.

 Nordstom, Timex Easy Reader Leather Watch, $65

So masculine, I would layer on a ton of bangles and maybe even a charm bracelet.

Fossil, Sydney mini face watch, $95

A great stainless steel watch is softened by a great circular face.

Asos, Watch with double dial, $53

Simple, chic and minimalist. Very professional.

Lord and Taylor, Jolie silverstone square watch, $45

I love the industrial look of this watch. And the price is just right.

It seems like every designer is coming out with their own watch line these days- what are you going to be wearing?

Be fabulous today!

Friday Foodday

We made it you guys! I'm so happy it's Friday. Here are my favorite recipes I've been looking at this week.


The Best Coleslaw Ever
c/o Lauren's Latest

Ingredients
1/2 head green cabbage, shredded
1/2 onion, finely diced
1 large carrot, grated
2 tablespoons chopped chives {optional}
1 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup white vinegar
3 tablespoons sugar
salt & pepper, to taste


Directions

For the coleslaw, place cabbage, onion, carrot and chives into a large bowl. In a smaller bowl, stir together mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt and pepper. Pour over top veggies and toss to coat. Store in refrigerator until ready to serve. The longer this sits the better it tastes.

Hot Chocolate Oreo Muffins

c/o Kitchen Bellicious

Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 tsp hot chocolate mix
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup margarine
• 20 oreo cookies

Directions

1. In medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, hot chocolate,soda and salt, set aside.
2. In small bowl, combine milk, sour cream, and egg then stir the egg mixture in to the flour mixture with margarine until just blended. Gently stir in the cookies and spoon batter 12 greased 2 1/2 inch muffin pan cups.
3. Bake at 400 degrees F for 20-25 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
4. Remove from pan, cool on wire rack.

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Peanut Butter and Jelly French Toast

c/o Stephanie Cooks Blog

Ingredients

6 slices cinnamon swirl bread
Peanut butter
Jelly
1 tbsp butter
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk or cream
1/2 tsp cinnamon

Directions

1- Using the bread, peanut butter, and jelly, make 3 pb&j sandwiches. Slice the sandwiches in half, set aside.
2- Meanwhile beat the eggs, milk/cream, and cinnamon together in a shallow dish.
3- Melt the butter in a nonstick skillet. Once it melts dip the sandwiches in the egg mix, flipping to coat both sides, and cook until the bread is nicely golden. Serve with syrup.

Bag It

We all know color blocking is huge, but what about for bags? Mixing colors on your accessories is always a great way to spice an outfit.

Asos, Aldo Virga Clutch, $71

The turquoise trim really makes this bag for me. Such a small but noticeable pop of color.

Topshop, Spot Colour Block Clutch, $40

I'm a sucker for polka dots and this is no exception. Amazing.

Nordstrom, SR Squared by Sondra Roberts Color Block Clutch, $72

Chic to the extreme, I love the patent leather.

Macy's, Rachel Roy Large Magazine Tote, $89

Color blocking isn't just for clutches, here is a great tote for work or weekend.

I just love mixing punchy colors, but if you're not feeling brave to wear it, try accessorizing with it!

Be fabulous today!

Brass Jewelry

Hey lovebugs,
Most of you know I usually wear gold jewelry but lately, I'm feeling a different metal: brass. It's a little vintage, a little boho chic, and always a good option.

Han Cholo, Shadow Series Baby Ghetto Blaster, $60

How much fun is this pendant? I love it's funky, cool quality.

Max and Chloe, Chibi Brass Arrow Bracelet, $50

This bracelet is perfect for stacking. It is light and slim, great for an arm party.

Saks Fifth Avenue, Bing Bang Ornate Hoop Earrings, $89

Certainly not your average hoop earrings, these have a great architectural quality.

Revolve Clothing, Giles and Brother Spike Ring, $63

A little badass don't you think?

Brass is such a great metal for any casual outfit, it has a great 'not trying too hard' look about it.

Be fabulous today!

Collared Up

I wore a school uniform from preschool until I graduated from high school, so I have a special place in my heart for collars. Right now it seems that they are coming back! Maybe not in an oxford style but a peter pan collar and even removable collars. Let's take a look.

Modcloth, Academic Achievement Top, $57

Great rounded collar, small pattern and silky sophistication.

Macy's, Short sleeve collar chiffon belted dress, $38

Short sleeved and sweet as pie, don't you think?

Ann Taylor, Shawl Collar Blouse, $88

Ok, well the color is fantastic. But the faux wrap effect of this top is so breezy and light; great for a suit jacket of belted.

Asos, Max C London Pleated Dress, $44

This model is way too thin for my liking but the dress is beautiful-great impact color dress.

See, collars don't have to be so prep school- they can be sweet and sexy.

Be fabulous today!

Chevron

Hey lovebugs,
Happy Monday to you! Can you believe March is almost over? Spring is coming and one pattern that I'm really loving for the warmer weather is chevron.

Tinley Road, Chevron Dress, $59

Great colors, great price and the sleeves are perfect for the transition to warmer weather.

Forever 21, Chevron scarf, $7

I'm picturing this with a beat up denim jacket for coffee on weekend.

Cielo, Striped Batwing Top, $59

Loving the hemlines on this piece great change of pattern direction.

Neiman Marcus, Nara Pave and Quartz Studs, $85

I really like the idea of a single chevron on a simple stuff earring, kind of rocker.

How are you styling chevron right now? I think it's a great pattern to mix with any color, something different than your normal stripe.

And the winner of the Purple and Lime Giveaway is.....

Katie V! Katie email me with your contact information!

Be fabulous today!

Friday Foodday

You guys finally. Friday. Don't forget to enter the giveaway today and tomorrow! Winner will be announced on Monday.


Balsamic Grilled Chicken with Mozzarella and Pesto
c/o Stephanie Cooks

Ingredients
2 chicken breasts
1 cup balsamic vinegar
2-4 thick slices fresh mozzarella
Pesto


Directions
1- Place the chicken and 1/2 cup of the balsamic vinegar in a large bag or bowl and marinade for 1 hour. (Do not marinade over night- the acid in the vinegar can affect the texture).
2- When ready to cook, heat a grill pan and grill the chicken until cooked through.
3- Meanwhile, pour 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar in a small sauce pot and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook for about 15 minutes, until reduced and thickened.
4- When the chicken is cooked top with the slices of mozzarella and place it under the broiler until the cheese melts. Top with a spoonful of pesto and drizzle with the balsamic reduction.


Cinnamon Bun Popcorn
c/o Lauren's Latest

Ingredients
2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
1/2 cup popcorn kernels
a few dashes of salt
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon cinnamon, or more if desired
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon half & half


Directions

In a small bowl, mix butter and cinnamon together. Set aside. In a separate small bowl, mix powdered sugar with half & half until smooth. You may have to stir in a little more half & half to get it to drizzling consistency. Set aside.

Place oil and popcorn kernels into a large pot. Cover with tight fitting lid or foil. Place pot over high heat. Shake pot back and forth over hot burner to heat kernels evenly. Continue shaking the pot until the popcorn starts to pop. After a minute or two, the popping will slow right down and you’ll have a pot full of popcorn. Dump the hot popcorn onto a baking sheet and drizzle with cinnamon butter immediately. Stir to coat. Drizzle the icing over the top and toss to coat as well. Serve warm, or let it cool so the icing can harden up a bit.

Recipe notes: It’s important to keep the pot moving the entire time its over the heat–this ensures the kernels don’t ever burn.

Homemade Garlic Hummus and Tahini Sauce

c/o Table for Two Blog

Ingredients

1 15. oz can of garbanzo beans, reserve the liquid

2 large garlic cloves, cut into smaller pieces

2 tbsp. tahini (recipe below)

Juice of 1 lemon

1/4 tsp. ground cumin

Large pinch of cayenne, more to taste

Salt, to taste

Olive oil

Dash of paprika for garnish

Directions

1. In a food processor add the beans, garlic cloves, tahini, lemon juice, cumin, cayenne, salt, a couple tbsp. of reserved liquid, and a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Process until well pureed. If it doesn’t seem like it’s going anywhere, not getting pureed, drizzle in more olive oil and thin it out with the reserved liquid.
3. When ready to serve, spoon into a small dish/bowl and sprinkle paprika on top. Serve with pita chips, olives, anything you want!
4. This can be covered and refrigerated for 1-2 weeks.

Khaki- Don't Run!

Stay with me guys, khaki isn't always bad! For the men, avoid pleats, for ladies, avoid bell bottoms, but when you take the color khaki, you have so many more options!

Last Call Neiman Marcus, Long Chiffon Trim Cardigan, $79

The ivory trim with the khaki is stunning. 

Modcloth, You Tan Do It, $57

Oooo how sweet is this? The hem line, the sleeves, the pattern! 

Gap, Military Jacket, $98
This is such a great Spring jacket, blousy and easy to throw on for the weekend.

Banana Republic, Allover Lace Shell, $45
Beautiful details, light and airy, perfect for layering.

See? Was that so painful? Embrace the khaki. It matches with everything and it comes in so many shades: tan, nude, you name it. 

Be fabulous today!

Tropical Chic

Hump Day lovebugs, we're getting there. Today let's brighten up the day with some tropical styles. I'm not saying let's go to the beach, but something between the Bahamas and the office.

Sorrelli, Tropical Floral Cluster Studs, $62

How fabulous are these studs? So colorful and so much fun for an LBD or a pair of jeans.

Vince Camuto, Contrast placket shirt green, $79

I love the color of this silk shirt and the black cuffs are quite unexpected.

Modcloth, Tropical Tradition Dress, $47

Great price for a really unique item. I love the orange.

Nordstrom, La Fiorentina Floral Design Scarf, $58

You don't need a margarita to wear this scarf but boy wouldn't that be nice?

Tropical prints are huge this season but I find it hard to mix them into my work wardrobe. Try a piece with a smaller print or use tropical colors vs prints to start the trend in your style.

Be fabulous today!