Friday Foodday

Happy last weekend in March! Here are my favorite recipes this week.

Baja Margarita
c/o Country Cleaver

Ingredients

3/4 to 1 cup Sugar

1 1/2 cup Water

1/2 cup Lime Juice

1/2 cup Tequila

Directions

*Adjust the amount of sugar you like for your margaritas in this step. Add more sugar for a sweeter margarita, or use less for a more tart margarita* In a small saucepan, whisk together the sugar and water. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. reduce the heat and simmer for several minutes, or until the sugar has dissolved completely. Remove the pan from the heat and set aside to cool. Once cooled, stir in the lime juice until combined.

If you want to make the mixture a Pour-Over Drink Mix:: Add the 1/2 cup of tequila into the margarita mix after you add in the lime juice. Stir to combine. Shake and pour over ice for instant margaritas.

Chicken Scarpariello

c/o A Dish of Daily Life

Ingredients

• 2 lbs skinless, boneless chicken thighs
• salt and freshly ground pepper
• all purpose flour or cornstarch for dusting (can substitute cornstarch if you are gluten free)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion, sliced thin into rounds
• 1 large red bell pepper, sliced thin
• 8 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage leaves, finely minced
• 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
• 1 cup Peppadews, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup pickling juice from Peppadews
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 1 cup chicken stock

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. I like to use a cast iron pan with enamel coating that I can put right into the oven to finish the dish.
4. Dust chicken with flour (or cornstarch, for gluten free).
5. Brown chicken on both sides; transfer to a plate.
6. Add sausage to same pan the chicken was cooked in, and brown on both sides.
7. Remove sausage and drain on paper towels, then cut into slices.
8. Return pan to heat, and add onions and bell pepper. Scrape browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon while the onions and bell pepper are cooking. Once they start to soften, add the garlic, sage, and rosemary, stirring to combine. Cook for about a minute.
9. Add the Peppadews, Peppadew liquid and white wine. Continue to stir and cook until the liquid is reduced by about half, about 2 minutes.
10. Add the chicken stock and fresh lemon juice, stir to combine. Return sausage and chicken to pan.
11. Transfer pan to oven and cook for 30 minutes, until chicken is tender. Serve immediately.

Peanut Butter Swirled Brownies

c/o Smitten Kitchen

Ingredients

PEANUT BUTTER BATTER

• 3/4 cup (190 grams) smooth peanut butter
• 2/3 (135 grams) cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extra
• A few pinches of flaky or coarse sea salt

BROWNIE BATTER

• 3 ounces (85 grams) unsweetened chocolate, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup (115 grams or 4 ounces) unsalted butter, plus extra for pan
• 1 1/4 cups (250 grams) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon flaky or heaped 1/4 teaspoon of coarse sea salt
• 2/3 cup (85 grams) all-purpose flour

TO FINISH

• 1/4 cup (40 grams) semi- or bittersweet chocolate chips

Directions

Heat oven: To 350°F (175°C). 

Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment and coat the bottom and sides with nonstick cooking spray or butter. 

Make peanut butter batter: Whisk all ingredients in a bowl until smooth.

Make brownie batter: In a medium heatproof bowl over gently simmering water, melt chocolate and butter together until only a couple unmelted bits remain. Off the heat, stir until smooth and fully melted. You can also do this in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each. Whisk in sugar, then eggs, one at a time, then vanilla and salt. Stir in flour with a spoon or flexible spatula.

Assemble brownies: Spread a thin layer of brownie batter (about 1/3 of total batter, but no need to be exact) in bottom of prepared baking pan. Dollop peanut butter batter all over in big spoonfuls. Dollop remaining brownie batter in pan, aiming, if you can, between the peanut butter dollops. Use a butter knife to swirl the batters together in loose figure-8s. Sprinkle chips all over.

Bake: For 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out batter-free.

Knuckle Sandwich

We haven't looked at rings in a while, and a trend I'm loving is the midi ring. Those delicate smaller pieces that rest just above your middle knuckle.

Shopbop, Elizabeth and James Miror Knuckle Ring, $95

A lovely delicate ring set that is connected with a fine chain.

Etsy, Sterling Silver Knuckle Ring, $22

I'm not much for festivals, but even I can get on board with this Coachella-esque ring!

Shopbop, Maya Magal Midi Outline Ring, $82

I love the simplicity of this ring. The outline vs a gold fill is quiet and easy.

Dogeared, Midi Love X Ring, $32

A great cross design makes this ring extra special. That, and it's on sale.

Have you tried the midi ring trend? Does the placement drive you nuts or is it easy to get used to?

Be fabulous today!

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Tie the Knot

Let's look at a fun and easy tee that offers a little something extra. It's about the little things like an unexpected hemline or a detailed sleeve that grab my attention. Today it's the knot tee.

Shoptiques, 12pm by Mon Ami Long Sleeve Knot Tee, $32

A pop of sunshine with a relaxed fit.

Nordstrom Rack, Free Press Cupro Hi-Lo Knotted Tee, $29

Just a beautiful staple piece with an unexpected high-lo hem.

Saks Off Fifth, Scoopneck Long Sleeve Tee, $34

Speaking of staples, how about adding this to your weekend rotation?

Gap, V Neck Knot Slub Tee, $20

Super soft club makes this a great tee for running errands or dressing up with printed crops.

A simple knot that makes these tees stand out from the crowd. Oh and they're all under $35.

Be fabulous today!

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What A Colorful World

Remember when colorblock used to be THE thing? What happened? Did we give up? Well I'm not quite over it. Maybe we can tone it down from the major color combos of two years ago, but I am really loving these pieces.

Last Call Neiman Marcus, Colorblock Zip Pocket Sheath Dress, $89

Oh hello mod chic.

Nordstrom, Vince Camuto Colorblock Cotton Sweater, $89

A beautiful cotton pullover that is great for the not quite warm weather we're having right now.

Nordstrom Rack, Cynthia Rowley Cashmere Colorblock Cropped Sweater, $79

Originally $325. Get on this.

Ann Taylor, Colorblock Tie Blouse, $64

This blouse is so eye-catching. I love the color combination because you can pair it with so many options.

Who says colorblocking is over? I love mixing surprising colors together to make a really chic look.

Be fabulous today!

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Spring Sneakers

How about some spring-ready slip ons? Sneakers that are casual, sporty, and chic. I love my Steve Madden slip on quilted sneakers because they are comfortable and easy to wear. These colorful pairs are going to be perfect for the warmer weather.

DSW, Mia Zoe Bow Slip On, $39

Hello spring! How cute are these in blush?

Dr. Scholl's, Madison Memory Foam Slip On, $49

A beautiful sneaker that will go with everything. Jeans, printed crops, you name it.

Nordstrom Rack, UGG Fierce Geo Performance Slip On, $59

I'm obsessed with these sneakers. Highlighter pink and comfort for days.

Nordstrom, Sam Edelman Pixie Slip On, $48

I had to throw in a printed option. So pretty.

Sure it will be sandal season before we know it, but when your pedicure isn't ready, opt for these pretty sneakers.

Be fabulous today!

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Friday Foodday

Happy Friday! 
Here are my favorite recipes this week. 

The Original Hurricane
c/o The Kitchn

Ingredients
2 oz dark rum
1 oz passion fruit syrup
1 oz fresh-squeezed lemon juice

Directions

Combine all ingredients in a shaker over ice. Shake and strain into an ice-filled glass. (The original recipe calls for crushed ice, but I prefer this with cubed, since the drink doesn't get diluted as quickly.) Garnish with an orange slice and cherry.

Bourbon Mac and Cheese

c/o Food Hunter's Guide to Cuisine

Ingredients

3 Tablespoons butter
3 Tablespoons flour
6 Tablespoons bourbon
2 cups heavy cream
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
1lb pasta
6 oz Kerrygold  Aged Cheddar, grated
6 oz aged Kerrygold Skelling Cheese, grated 

Directions

Heat oven to 350. Cook pasta to al dente

Meanwhile melt butter in saucepan.  Add flour, paprika & crushed pepper. Cook constantly until smooth. Add cream a little at a time until fully incorporated. Add bourbon. Cook stirring constantly until thickened. Add 3/4 of the cheese and stir constantly until fully melted.

Combine pasta and sauce in a casserole dish. Top with the remaining cheese and bake for 30 min until golden brown and bubbly. Serve immediately.

Watergate Bundt Cake

c/o Shugary Sweets

Ingredients

FOR THE CAKE:

• 1 box white cake mix
• 1 cup canola oil
• 1 package (3 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
• 1 cup lemon-lime soda (sprite, sierra mist, etc)
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

FOR THE TOPPING:

• 1 cup skim milk
• 1 package (3 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
• 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a 12cup bundt pan with baking spray, set aside. I love this pan, never fails on me when I flip my cake out!
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat cake mix, oil, pudding, eggs and lemon lime soda on medium spead until well blended (about 3 minutes). Fold in pecans.
3. Pour batter into bundt cake pan. Bake for 45 minutes, until edges are lightly browned. Remove from oven and cool in pan about 5 minutes. Flip onto a wire rack and cool completely.
4. For the frosting, whisk the milk and pudding mix together. Refrigerate for about 5 minutes. When ready to frost cake, fold the Cool Whip into the pudding mixture. Spread generously over the cake. Using your hand, press the pecans and coconut to the sides of the cake. ENJOY. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Less is More

Sometimes it's the most delicate piece of your outfit that makes you feel powerful. It's not the oversized print or the stilettos, it's something smaller, maybe even something only you notice. It's a piece you feel good about putting on because it makes you smile. These small but mighty cuffs can get lost in an arm party, but worn alone offer just the right touch of special.

Nordstrom Rack, NADRI Semiprecious Stone Cuff, $100 $39

You've gotta love Nordstrom Rack for bringing the beauty at an affordable price.

Bloomingdale's, Argento Vivo Heart Cuff Bracelet, $48

Simple but makes you smile.

Charming Charlie, Sadie Vintage Arm Cuff, $14

A beautiful brushed metal that gives this bling a vintage look.

The Outnet, Saturn Gold Tone and Stone Cuff, $115 $55

Shades of cobalt that pop.

Sometimes less is more and with these simple but beautiful cuffs, it's about the little things.

Be fabulous today!

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Bombs Away

The bomber jacket is huge for spring. It's popular because it's such a cool girl look. Easy and effortless. The good news is there are about a zillion options to choose from, the bad news is they can be pricey. That's why I'm bringing you some options under $40.

American Eagle, Embroidered Bomber Jacket, $39

A muted blue with a beautiful design.

Forever 21, Embroidered Bomber Jacket, $29

A great monochrome jacket that goes with just about anything.

Target, Merona Lace Bomber Jacket, $29

Yeah, Target. I love this! So ready for spring.

H&M, Bomber Jacket, $19

Under $20! Pick from five colors.

So you want to try a new trend but you don't want to break the bank. I got you, girl.

Be fabulous today!

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Soft Serve

Let's talk comfort and style. Soft pants. Love em? Hate em? I'm getting on board. Last year I was still on the 'these could be pjs, you guys' but now I'm all in. Styled with a crisp tee and dressed up with some fun jewelry, you've got a great look!

Macy's, Vince Camuto Pull On Pants, $80

A great windowpane print that you can style for work with a great pair of block heel sandals.

Asos, Soft Luxe Pant with Tie Belt, $42

What a stunning jewel toned pant. Add your own skinny metallic belt to dress it up.

Old Navy, Mid Rise Soft Tapered Crops, $32

Yeah, Old Navy. A great leg line that you can dress up or down with the right shoes.

Mango, Soft Fabric Cord Trousers, $69

A little paper bag waistline makes these pants fashion forward. Effortless.

A great soft pant is going to work for you now through the end of summer. Print or solid, these pants can be styled just for you.

Be fabulous today!

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Roughed Up Ruffles

Happy Monday lovebugs!

I hope you had a wonderful weekend. I'm dealing with Monday with ruffles. I love ruffles for spring because you can style it however you'd like. Ruffles don' have to be girly, dress it with moto boots or bf jeans.

Loft, Striped Ruffle Cold Shoulder Top, $44

One of the reasons I don't love the cold shoulder trend is the strapless bra situation it requires. This top? Not so much! It's perfect.

Mango, Ruffle T-shirt, $39

This top is a steal for under 40 bucks. Wear it for work or play.

Anthropologie, Shadowsong Ruffle Tee, $49

A great long sleeve option for this transitional weather period.

Nordstrom, BP Ruffle Front Tee, $29

Simple, easy, playful.

Ruffles no longer fall into the bows and polka dots category. Ruffles can be girly but they can also be gritty.

Be fabulous today!

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Friday Foodday

Happy Friday! Here are my favorite recipes this week.

Pawley's Rum Punch
c/o Saveur

Ingredients

1 oz. cranberry juice

1 oz. fresh orange juice

1 oz. pineapple juice

1 oz. dark rum

1 oz. gold rum

Freshly grated nutmeg, for garnish

Directions

Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice; shake vigorously and strain into a punch glass. Top with grated nutmeg.

Taco Chili

c/o Buns in My Oven

Ingredients

• 1 package Hurst's 15 Bean Soup
• 10 cups water
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 packets taco seasoning
• 14 ounce can diced tomatoes
• 10 ounce can enchilada sauce
• 4 ounce can diced green chiles
• 1 sweet onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Rinse and sort through the dried beans, removing any debris. Add beans to a large stock pot over high heat and pour in the water.
2. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cover the pot.
3. Let cook for 1 hour and 30 minutes, stirring every 30 minutes.
4. When beans are tender, brown the beef until cooked through and drain the fat. Add one packet of taco seasoning to the meat and stir to coat.
5. Add the meat to the pot of beans, along with the second packet of taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, green chiles, onion, garlic, and salt. Add the packet of Ham Flavoring from the bag of beans to the pot. Stir well.
6. Cover and continue cooking on low for 45 minutes.
7. Serve with your favorite taco toppings, such as grated cheddar, avocado, sour cream, and tortilla chips.

Double Chocolate Nutella Toffee Skillet Brownie

c/o Country Cleaver

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup Butter, melted and cooled
• 3/4 cup Nutella, or chocolate hazelnut spread
• 1/2 cup Brown Sugar or Coconut Sugar
• 1/2 cup Sugar
• 2 Eggs
• 1 tsp Vanilla
• 1 tsp Baking Soda
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1 2/3 cups Flour
• 2 Tbsp Cocoa Powder
• 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
• 1/2 cup Toffee Pieces, like Heath Bits o' Toffee

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl with a whisk or spatula, butter, Nutella, brown and white sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in the flour, salt and baking soda until a batter forms.


2. Stir in 3/4 of the chocolate chips and 1/4 cup of the toffee pieces.


3. Spoon the batter into a oven proof skillet, cast iron or stainless steel that has been sprayed with non-stick spray. Even the batter out and press to within 1/2" of the edges of the skillet - the brownie will spread out, but leave the room between the batter and the sides of the skillet so the edges don't over cook.


4. Top with remaining chocolate chips and toffee bits. Place in oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are set and a toothpick placed in the middle of the brownie comes out clean. (Check - timing depends on the oven)


5. Let the brownie cool on a wire rack in the skillet until just warm - about 45 minutes. It will still be very soft in the middle, but as it cools, the brownie will set entirely.


6. Drizzle with additional softened Nutella if desired, or ice cream!

The Bell Tolls

Almost there lovebugs, Friday eve. Let's continue our week of details and check out some beautiful bell sleeve blouses.

White House Black Market, Pink Off the Shoulder Bell Sleeve Top, $59

While I'm not crazy over the cold shoulder trend, I LOVE the shape of this top!

Loft, Bouquet Bell Sleeve Softened Shirt, $59

Great print mix, and a simple no collar look.

Macy's, Alfani Bell Sleeve Top, $49

This top is a great base. Pair it with jeans, a pencil skirt, pearls, or tassel earrings.

Nordstrom, Soprano Bell Sleeve Top, $45

Great price for a solid spring top that goes with everything. Also comes in a crisp white.

How do you style a bell sleeve top? Dress it up or down?

Be fabulous today!

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