Cooking In My High Heels

Start with the best!

2012-01-14T14:48:00.001-08:00

Whenever I want to prepare an impressive dinner, I shop for the highest quality food possible. What I have learned over the years is that the quality of your ingredients is what makes the meal. Fresh, organic fruits and vegetables that are locally grown are usually where I begin. A cook is no better than her tools and ingredients; you pay for what you get so get the very best.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T16:52:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year Dolls and Dudes! I hope it was filled with magic and all things spectacular. I was thinking about some of my favorite New Year's Eve and New Year's day memories. Some memories were filled with Champagne and sequin and others with warm blankets, good food and fire places. What are some of your favorite New Year memories? Care to share? Did you have black eyed peas and collard grrens for dinner today? Well? Kissses-

Shopping brings forth great ideas

2011-06-05T07:18:00.000-07:00

I can get an idea for a new meal simply by doing one of my favorite things. Shopping!! Just the other day, I was at the market and saw a vanilla bean dip that would be perfect for dipping. After reading the ingredients, I decided that I would make it for myself, minus the additives and high fructose cornsyrup. Check out the recipe.

Vanilla Dip

1 8 ounce reduced fat cream cheese softened

1/2 cup low-fat coconut milk vanilla yogurt

3/4-1 cup powdered sugar (adjust amount to taste)

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine cream cheese, vanilla yogurt, powdered sugar and vanilla in a large bowl. Mix on high speed with a hand mixer until combined and fluffy. Serve with strawberries.

Old Fashion Breakfast

2011-06-03T04:03:00.000-07:00

Whenever I am home or when my mom or granny come to visit me, I have to get them to make one of my favorite breakfast meals, salmon cakes and grits. Whenever I make them for myself or a guest it makes me feel like I am back at the old kitchen table I grew up sitting at. Today I add my own little flavor by adding Parmesan to my grits and fresh dill and sweet onion to my cakes. Also, I serve it with a side of Monkey Bread. It's just one of those old home cooked meals that I adore; my family will be in town for a visit in July and I have high hopes for some Salmon Cakes and Grits... old school style!

Fresh Herbs makes everything better!

2011-06-01T12:38:00.000-07:00

There is nothing better in the world to me than freshly prepared food. As some of you may know I have ventured into growing my own herb and vegetable garden right on my patio and from this garden I have been able to have the convinience of adding fresh herbs to make my dishes fabulous on a whim. It has taken some time to cultivate but it has been so worth it. Not only is it fun, fab and most importantly green, it has given me a new cusine weapon to add to my arsenal. Consider it for yourself!

Is your chocolate green?

2011-03-03T11:34:00.000-08:00

Every fab and environmentally conscious diva of the twenty first century knows the importance of being fair to all, especially the wonderful farmers who produce yummy things for us to eat like chocolate! Since chocolate should be no exception to the rule of fair trade, I thought I would explain the importance of fair trade for all you dolls who distinctively know that in addition to diamonds, chocolate is a girl's best friend.

So what is fair trade chocolate? In short, fair trade chocolate is chocolate that a fair trade organization looked at and can assure you that it is a product that meets the criteria of trying to make the world a better place.

Fair trade is a concept that basically says products that are labeled fair trade certified products meet standards that promote the following goals:

- They are produced in ways that support eco-friendly practices and sustainable living and farming

- They are farmed by marginalized workers in economically challenged countries. Fair trade organizations look out for these workers by trying to reduce the cut that aggressive middle men take in importing or exporting their goods, and they work with retailers to promote those products.

- The farmers or workers use a certain amount of the profits from their fair trade products to put back into development for their nations and communities.

- The farmers and producers don’t exploit workers or use child labor.

Chocolate companies usually purchase cocoa from farmers at low prices, not allowing them to meet their families’ needs and making them appeal to forced and illegal child workforce. The Fair Trade Chocolate refers to those companies which overcome this fact by obtaining the cocoa at fair prices from the farmers.

Therefore, by purchasing Fair Trade Certified Chocolate, we can help farming families to meet their basic needs, besides helping the environment, as sustainable production methods are required!

Some of my favorites are :

Trader Joe's

Super Dark, 73 percent cocoa

Certifications: Organic and Fair Trade

Price: $2.00/3 oz

Divine Chocolate

Brunch anyone?

2011-03-02T05:08:00.000-08:00

Slip on one of your favorite flirty frocks, toss a little glitter on your décolleté (because you know glitter makes everything fabulous), call up your girlfriends and have an impromptu Sunday brunch.

Oh yeah, and don’t forget to serve the mimosas with this fabulous Brie and Cherry Chutney recipe courtesy of about.com!

Brie with Cherry Chutney

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup dried cherries

• 1 lb. dark sweet cherries, pitted and chopped

• 3/4 cup brown sugar

• 1 Granny Smith apple, peeled and finely chopped

• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion

• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1/4 tsp. allspice

• 1/4 tsp. cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp. salt

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

• 8 oz. wheel brie or camembert cheese

• Preparation:

• Combine all ingredients except brie in heavy saucepan and stir to mix. Bring to a boil over medium high heat. Reduce heat to medium low and cook gently for 45-50 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally. Cool at least one hour before serving.

• Heat brie in the microwave on HIGH for 30 seconds to one minute, or until softened. Pour 1 cup cherry chutney over brie and serve with crackers and French bread.

• You can also bake the brie at 350 degrees F for 10-15 minutes until softened.

Spring is coming!!

2011-03-01T11:23:00.000-08:00

Spring is coming and one oy my favorite things about Spring (besides the fun dresses in fruity colors and open toe shoes to don your perfectly polished piggies) is the fruits and vegetables! My favorite fruits and vegetables just happen to be in peak during the months of March, April and May. I have comprised a list of all the fruits and veggies that are just ripe for the picking! Hope you enjoy!
Spring:

• Apricots (start)

• Artichokes

• Arugula

• Asparagus

• Beets

• Carrots

• Chard and other greens (particularly in colder regions)

• Cherries (seasons starts some places at the end of spring)
• Fennel
• Garlic scapes/green garlic

• Grapefruit

• Green onions/scallions

• Kumquats (end)

• Leeks (end)

• Lemons

• Lettuce
• Nettles

• Spring onions

• Navel oranges (end)

• Parsley
• Peas (garden, snap, snow, etc.)

• Radishes

• Rhubarb

• Scallions/green onions

• Spinach

• Strawberries

• Turnips

Month of March:
Broccoli

Lettuce
Mangoes
Pineapple

Healthy Stress Busters: The kind that does'nt put you in rehab

2011-01-06T11:17:00.000-08:00

No fabulous girl should ever be bogged down and overwhelmed with stress. But sometimes it happens. My suggestion? Take your sassy self away on an exotic, steamy vacation with a cutie for two weeks. But if you can’t, I hope you will consider some of these healthy stress busters.

Healthy Stress Busters

Yoga- Yoga can help you activate a relaxation response in your body at the same as you strengthen muscles, increase flexibility, and ultimately helping you sleep better at night.

Meditating- our bodies have a fundamental need for silence and inner peace and meditation helps us to switch off from the worries that can plague us through the day and “download”. When we do, we are more relaxed and effective decision makers.

Gardening- Planting a beautiful garden can be a great way to relive stress; you spend time in the wonderful sunlight which can chemically improve your mood. Think about all that vitamin D you’ll be getting.

Aromatherapy-Aromatherapy can reduce the perception of stress, increase contentment, and decrease levels of cortisol, the “stress hormone.”

Laughter/comedy- Yep no joke here. Laughter reduces the level of stress hormones like cortisol, epinephrine (adrenaline), dopamine and growth hormone. It also increases the level of health-enhancing hormones like endorphins, and neurotransmitters

Some other stress busters are Sex, Music, Green tea, and Journaling. And if you can’t seem to get one of these in, just find a sunny spot in your bedroom and take a long nap.

Kisses!

Puppy Cakes!

2010-11-23T10:21:00.000-08:00

Dogs are not only man's best friend; we bombshells and divas love our loyal lap babies too. And because your little pooch deserves a treat that is just as free-spirited and whimsical as he/she is it is only fitting that you indulge your posh little pup with a puppy cake. Thanksgiving is just days away and everyone else will be throwing down on cakes and pies so why not whip up a little puppy cake. Your pooch will thank you for it! Puppycake.com has two fab flavors, carob and banana cake mix.

http://www.puppycake.com/

And the two became one....

2010-11-22T09:42:00.000-08:00

When I first heard about the uniting of red velvet cake and cheesecake I thought "what in the name of Frankincense and Myrrh; why have I not had this before! Darlings, this is not even some new phenomenon so I tell you, some things just slip right by me sometimes. So I have hunted up what I consider to be a relatively easy recipe to try out this holiday season.
The recipe involves the romantic love story of the coming together of the beautiful and sensual red velvet cake and the dashing and "scrumpdelicious" cheesecake. Give it a try too and tell me what you think. Kisses!

Red Velvet Cheese Cake- Courtesy of Southern Living December 2004

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs

  1/4 cup butter, melted

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened

  1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

4 large eggs, lightly beaten

  3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa

1 cup sour cream

1/2 cup whole buttermilk

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar

  2 (1-ounce) bottles red food coloring

1 (3-ounce) package cream cheese, softened

  1/4 cup butter, softened

  2 cups powdered sugar

  1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Preparation

• Stir together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; press mixture into bottom of a 9-inch spring form pan.

• Beat 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar at medium-low speed with an electric mixer 1 minute. Add eggs and next 6 ingredients, mixing on low speed just until fully combined. Pour batter into prepared crust.

• Bake at 325° for 10 minutes; reduce heat to 300°, and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until center is firm. Run knife along outer edge of cheesecake. Turn oven off. Let cheesecake stand in oven 30 minutes. Remove cheesecake from oven; cool in pan on a wire rack 30 minutes. Cover and chill 8 hours.

• Beat 1 (3-ounce) package cream cheese and 1/4 cup butter at medium speed with an electric mixer until smooth; gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until smooth. Spread evenly over top of cheesecake. Remove sides of spring form pan. Garnish, if desired.

She's baaaaack!!!

2010-11-18T07:10:00.000-08:00

Hello Dudes and Divas! I am back! I have been away for a little while but fret no more I am back to deliver you the best in the hottest shoes, food and all things bombshell! There should be no surprise that since the holidays are fast approaching I am on the look out for the best in culinary cuisines and treats that will make our mouths swoon and the best in flirty holiday party wear that we will want to strut our sassy stuff in all season long!
No let's begin with a fabulous Thanksgiving treat that your guests will adore. Milk and Dark Chocolate Caramel apples. An absolutely delightful after dinner indulgence to satisfy even the most insatiable sweet tooth!
http://www.deandeluca.com/chocolates-and-confections/confections/caramel-apples.aspx

“The fact is, sometimes it’s really hard to walk in a single woman’s shoes. That’s why we need really special ones now and then to make the walk a little more fun.” Carrie Bradshaw

Chocolate is a girl's best friend

2010-09-23T10:27:00.000-07:00

Whoever said that we can't enjoy rich, decadent chocolates anytime we want without all the calories? And who knew it was right there at our fingertips? Yesterday was the first day of Autum and Nubar's Chocolate Truffle Collection has the nail polish to die for with colors that you can strut your sassy self right into the Fall with. With colors like Swiss Chocolate and Rasberry Truffle any diva can live up to the bestowed sentiment of "sugar and spice". I am obsessed with this collection. Check it out at: http://www.bynubar.com/store/products/Chocolate_Truffles_Collection-894-114.html
And did I mention that the polish is vegan and cruelty-free. Love it!

Because dessert should be just as pretty as it is delicious

2010-09-17T10:48:00.000-07:00

Because dessert should be just as pretty as it is delicious think about treating yourself or that special someone with chocolates from Golden Edibles or The Chocolate Covered Company. It's decadent and so indulging (hint, they have 23 Karat edible chocolate covered strawberries).
Can someone say Fabulous?
http://www.goldenedibles.com/?__store=goldenedibles&SID=jebmhkk0j90s1uvvf282sdj9e3

“Life is uncertain. Eat dessert first.”-Ernestine Ulmer

Football 101 for the Ladies

2010-09-15T09:26:00.000-07:00

As I was enjoying my free preview of NFL Ticket last Sunday with my pick of several games to watch (I ended up flipping between Falcons and Steelers and Miami and Buffalo) and it cocured to me, that football season has started and ladies you may find yourselves sitting on the couch next to your man trying to watch a football game with him and are totally bored and have no clue what's going on, you may need a little football 101.

I know I have said this before but football is not just for the guys. It’s totally a girl’s game too (hot men in tights and all that macho testosterone, yummy), you just have to know the game. Now I am lucky, I learned the game pretty early (at age 6) by Mr. Elliot Orie (thanks grandpa!) but all YOU have to do is get the basics of the game down and you will be sitting next to your cute boy in your skinny jeans and team tee, calling plays and impressing your cute boy in no time…. Which is exactly the amount of time you have because the season started last Sunday. So here goes!
First things first, the game will start with a kickoff and the team who wins the pre-game coin toss decides who will kick and who will receive. The receiving team lines up at the opposite end of the field from the kicker and waits for the ball to go airborne. The receiving team has three options: Catch the ball and attempt to run it down the field toward the opposite end zone, signal a "fair catch" and stop play at the location of the catch, or signal a "touchback."
All the touchback means is that the kicked ball has landed in the receiving team's end zone.(Hint The kicker's goal is to kick a touchback every time, because it means that the receiving team will not have a chance to advance the ball). Anyway, when there is a touchback, play stops, and when it resumes the ball is placed on the receiving team's 20-yard line. Are you still with me so far????
The goal of the offense is to move the ball into the opposing team's end zone to score points. This is accomplished by making a series of plays to move the ball down the field. When the a team moves the ball into the opposition's end zone it's called a touchdown and the team is rewarded six points.
You don't need to worry about how to call a play when you see one unless you want to take it to the next level. If so, ask your sweetie to teach you about plays and defensive strategies; he will be happy to.
The plays are directed by the QB or quarterback (Romo, Ryan, Manning, Favre, Brady), just some names you may here your man calling out) who is the on-field team leader.
The quarterback usually runs the plays selected by the coaches, but if he sees something on the field that dictates a need for change, he can call an "audible" and change the play. An audible is a new play called by the quarterback at the line of scrimmage that's diffrent from what was decided in the huddle. He can do that because he is the team leader remember. Anyway, the area around the quarterback is called the "pocket."
The ball is put into play by the center. The center bends over and snaps the ball through his legs so the quarterback can catch it. (The QB takes the snap from center, then either hands the football off to a running back, passes to a receiver or runs with the ball himself).The center is at the center of the offensive line. There is a guard on either side of the center, and a tackle flanks or is beside each guard. Some plays will use a tight end on one end of the offensive line, and others will use two tight ends on opposite ends of the offensive line.
The offensive line's job is to block for and protect the quarterback so he can run the offense, and to open up holes for the running backs to run through. When a defender gets past the offensive line and tackles the quarterback, it is called a "sack." A sack simply means that the quarterback was tackled behind the line of scrimmage before a pass was attempted.
The wide receivers flank the quarterback. Their job is to move (pretty quickly) down the field toward the end zone and make themselves open to receive a pass.
The running backs are positioned behind the quarterback. Some plays use one running back; others use two or three. Sometimes the quarterback will hand the ball off to a running back (my favorite, nice and sneaky), or may pass (throw) it once the running back has moved downfield.
For each offensive team member, there is a corresponding defensive team member. In a man-coverage defense, defensive tackles and defensive ends cover the offensive line, linebackers defend the pass and the run, cornerbacks cover the wide receivers, the strong safety covers the tight end and the free safety stops anyone who might get past him. In a zone-coverage defense, each defensive team member is assigned a zone and stops anyone who enters it.
Important to know: The offensive team has four downs (or tries), to move the ball 10 yards for a first down before needing to punt.This process repeats until the offense scores (when they score it's a touchdown) or is forced to turn the ball over. The teams will then switch between offense and defense and the process repeats. FYI: Each game consists of four quarters. Each quarter is 15 minutes.

I hope you have fun. And don't forget to serve the wings!
Now you can officially launch potential football conversations with cute boys! You can thank me later girls!

Hello Princess

2010-08-18T11:50:00.000-07:00

Just because you lack a title doesn't mean that you are not deserving of donning a tiara whenever you get ready or having access to the most fabulous jewelry and accessories.
Let your fingers do the typing and surf on over to Princess Purse for the best deals in wholesale handbags and accessories. You can thank me anytime. Kisses Dolls!
http://www.princesspurse.com/

“It is the unseen, unforgettable, ultimate accessory of fashion that heralds your arrival and prolongs your departure.” Coco Chanel

Life is....

2010-08-17T09:37:00.000-07:00

sitting around the house in your boyfriends shirt and you’re your sexiest pair of undies, eating ambrosia, getting a foot massage (from him of course) and watching old black and white movies with classic Bombshells like Dorothy Dandridge, Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn. Hey, he will be happy to oblige, I am sure you cuddled with him, ate wings and watched the Lakers and Celtics play offs right?
Check this recipe for Ambrosia (a favorite of most glamour girls)
Glamour Girl Ambrosia

Ingredients:
1 can (20 oz. size) pineapple chunks, drained
1 can (11 oz. size) mandarin oranges; drained
1/2 cup maraschino cherries (drained)
1 cup flaked coconut
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 tablespoon sugar
3/4 cup vanilla yogurt (I prefer coconut milk yougurt)
Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. Serve immediately or chill several hours.

"A wise girl kisses but doesn't love, listens but doesn't believe, and leaves before she is left."

— Marilyn Monroe

Hello Dolls!

2010-08-10T06:41:00.000-07:00

Do something fabulous for yourself today! Pamper yourself by making an appointment at the best spa in town and indulging in a full body massage and facial. Or treat yourself to a ridiculously expensive bag or shoes. You can even spontaneously pop into a fabulous hotel for a luxurious overnight stay (be sure to have a cocktail at the bar wearing your best pair of heels).Whatever you do, make sure it's crazy, big and fab!

As so fabulously said by Marilyn Monroe, “it’s better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring”
Kisses from Christina!

Being Famished is not Fabulous

2010-07-21T06:51:00.000-07:00

Because no girl should ever leave home without a snack that is as light and free spririted as she is; I was first introduced to the Larabar at one of my girl's night in parties by my girlfriend Wendy. The Larabar is Gluten free, Soy Free and Kosher. It's combined with dates and nuts giving you a perfect balance for energy for that last haul of shopping with the girls. So toss one in your Snakeskin Prada bag ladies before leaving the ol hacienda. My personal Larabar fav is German Chocolate- Coconut,Pecans,Almonds,Cocoa all rolled up into one low calorie bar of goodness!
Check out some other healthy snacks at http://www.healthysnackstore.com/

Nuts about you!

2010-07-09T04:52:00.000-07:00

No glamour girl should have to waist her precious time picking out the uncanvassed nuts out of her trail mix and thanks to My Mixed Nuts we no longer have to. You can create your own and put in the treats that you enjoy and they are always fresh and made to order! Ahh the good life…
http://www.mymixednuts.com/

Smoldering weekend temperatures coming up….

2010-07-08T10:50:00.000-07:00

Forgo your weekend plans and grab the arm of your sweet guy and hit the park for a lover’s picnic complete with wine, cheese and French baguettes.

Make sure there are plenty of flowers for admiration and chocolates for your total indulgence.

As a bonus, hold yourselves up in a candle filled bedroom for the entire weekend with some sexy love games on the agenda. Now that’s what I call a hot weekend.
All you need:

Votive candles
Freshly steamed shrimp from your local market
Great wine
Cubed cheeses
French baguettes from your local bakery
Fresh strawberries and whipped cream

Snack Cake Fever

2010-07-01T10:12:00.000-07:00

I am not ashamed of the fact that I occasionally indulge in a little junk food from time to time. I think its because of the nostalgic feelings that I get from it. Memories of foods like chocolate pudding in small flip top cans, Nehi grape sodas, or Nabisco Giggles cookies make an eighties baby like me swoon. Now that my palette has matured a little I look for a little more sophistication in my junk food. But just for the fun of it, here is a recipe for Little Debbie Swiss Roll Kabobs. Oh and take this snack cake quiz and tell me how you did. Kisses!
1.What year did Hostess add the "squiggle" and cream filling to the Hostess Cupcake?

A.1950

B.1982

C.1920

D.1974

2. Which Hostess product turned 72 years old in 2002?

A.Ring Ding

B.Twinkie

C.Apple Pie

D.Cherry Pie

3. What was the original name given to "Twinkies" back in the 1930s?

A.Twinkle Toes

B.Twinkle Puffs

C.Creamy Fingers

D.Twinkle Fingers

4. In 1917 the Chattanooga Bakery, in Chattanooga Tennessee introduced which Southern treat?

A.MoonPie

B.Smores Bar

C.CreamPie

D.Devil Dog

5. "Fruitpie the Magician" has touted many of the Hostess Company's fruit pies. Which has NOT been a flavor of the fruit pie family?

A.peach

B.banana

C.pineapple

D.blackberry

6. Which Little Debbie snack was the first to be introduced?

A.Oatmeal Creme Pie
B.Nutty Wafer Bars

C.Swiss Cake Roll

D.Fudge Brownie

7. What Philadelphia based company boasts such products as "Krimpets", Snak Bars", & "KandyKakes"?

A.Hostess

B.Dolly Madison

C.Drakes

D.Tastykake

8. In the late 1950's, Frank Sinatra used to call the Bay Shore bakery to place weekly orders for which Entenmann's snack cake?

A.iced honey bun

B.fudge brownie

C.marble cake

D.crumb coffee cake

9. Which company located in Wayne, New Jersey, manufactures snack cakes such as Funny Bones, Yodels, Sunny Doodles, and Devil Dogs?

A.Drake

B.Dolly Madison

C.Bluebird

D.Hostess

10. Which best describes a "Chocodile"?

A.Chocolate covered Devil Dog

B.Chocolate covered Zinger

C.Chocolate covered Twinkie

D.Chocolate covered Suzy Q

1. 1950
All of the cupcakes have 7 "squiggles" on the top according to the company

2. Twinkie
The famous Twinkie was born on April 6,1930.

3.Twinkle Fingers
Twinkies were originally filled with a banana flavored cream, but it was changed due to a banana shortage during WWII.

4.MoonPie
(The 2 graham cracker cookies, layered with marshmallow, dipped in chocolate were created as a snack for coal miners to put in their lunch pails. It was created to be solid and filling and to be "as big as the moon")

5.banana
Since the pies debuted in 1962, Hostess has filled their pies with other flavors such as apple, French apple, strawberry, cherry, and blueberry).

6.Oatmeal Creme Pie
The Oatmeal Creme pie was introduced in 1960 by the founder of the company, O.D. McKee. He named the company after his 4 year old granddaughter, Debbie, and the pie itself sold over 14 million within the first ten months of production. The ever popular Swiss Cake Roll wasn't invented until 1964.

7. Tastykake
The company was founded by a Pittsburgh baker and a Boston egg salesman. The two created a company that revolutionized the idea of "grab 'n go" with their individualized snack cakes.

8. crumb coffee cake
Entenmann's first bakery opened in Brooklyn, New York in 1898, by the company's founder William Entenmann. Entenmann's Bakeries are proud to boast their clever invention of the "see-through" box. The box was developed in 1959 to persuade consumers to buy their tasty looking products.

9.Drake

In 1998, the Interstate Bakeries Corporation(IBC) acquired Drake's. IBC is the largest wholesale bakery and distributor of baked and sweet goods. Drake's bakeries have been producing sweet goods for over 110 years and the company was founded by Newman E. Drake.

10. Chocolate covered Twinkie
The once popular "Chocodile" is trying to make a comeback. According to the Hostess company, there are only 3 bakeries who produce them, St. Louis, Denver, and Los Angeles. They distribute them to a few surrounding areas, but currently not on the East Coast. There is even a petition (petitiononline.com) circulating to widen distribution on the product. The mascot for the snack cake is "Chauncey Choco-Dile".

Swiss Roll Kebabs
Ingredients:

12 Swiss Cake Rolls
1 Pint Fresh Strawberries
6 - 8 Kiwi
12 Wooden Skewers
Fresh or Canned Chunk Pineapple
Directions:
1. Place carton of cakes in freezer for one hour. Freezing the cakes makes them easier to slice.
2. Wash and slice (or drain if you have canned pineapple) all fruit and set aside.
3. After cakes have had time to freeze, slice and skewer alternating with different fruits.
Makes 12 Desserts

How well do you know your Kitchen Utensils?

2010-06-23T10:46:00.000-07:00

1. Every good chef needs an assortment of knives at his disposal. What type of knife would be best suited for slicing up a loaf of sour dough?
A. Serrated knife

B. Paring knife

C. Chef's knife

D. Fillet knife

2. This special utensil is commonly used to remove the top part of the skin from fruit like oranges and lemons.

A. Peeler

B. Zester

C.Scoop

D. Grater

3. Which of the following items listed below does not fit with the others?

A. Colander

B. Sieve

C. Ricer

D. Strainer

4. One very specialized tool found in the kitchen drawer has the singular purpose of cutting out small balls of fruit. It is called a ________ baller.

A. Pineapple

B. Jackie

C. Cantaloupe

D. Melon

5. A bain-marie can be used in the kitchen to melt chocolate or make custards and sauces. What is it more commonly known as?

A. Pressure cooker

B. Crockpot

C. Double boiler

D. Browning tray

6. This interesting kitchen aid is a perforated pot with a hand turned scraper. It sits on top of a bowl and is great for crushing fruit and removing seeds as well as mashing a variety of solids. What is the name of this item that is commonly referred to by its original manufacturer’s name?

A. Dutch pan

B. Master's pot

C.Foley mill

D. Kimble pan

7. Typically when a chef needs to chop up small amounts of vegetables and herbs a simple knife does the job. However, there is another choice to perform this job but it requires both hands as it has two handles. What is it?

A. Mezzaluna

B. Mandoline

C. Chinois

D. Double cutter

8. This unique knife, originating in Japan, has become more common in the U.S. of recent. It is differentiated from other kitchen knives because of its shape and overall look, which often incorporates a Granton edge to keep materials from sticking to the blade during chopping.

A. Santoku

B. Panko

C. Aonori

D. Makisu

9. Crème brulee -- dessert custard topped with hard caramel -- is typically served in a small glazed ceramic serving bowl. What is the name of this bowl?

A. Ramadan

B. Ramen

C. Ramekin

D. Rameses

10. You've just returned from the market with a beautiful loaf of bread. The crust has been split on purpose on the top to let the bread "bloom" while baking. What utensil is used to score the dough before sticking it in the oven?

A. Tamis

B. Chimta

C. Banneton

D. Lame

1 .The correct answer is Serrated knife

While you could chop through bread with any of these, a serrated knife would work the best. The edge of a serrated knife is notched like a saw and that allows it to easily cut items which have a hard outer surface and a soft interior, like bread and tomatoes. These knives come in all sizes and the largest is also commonly known as a bread knife.

2. The correct answer is Zester

The "zest" is the top portion of the peel from a citrus fruit. This tool allows for the easy removal of the aromatic, oily zest from the bitter pith of the peel. The zest is used for flavoring dishes or as a nice garnish for drinks.

3. The correct answer is Ricer

While all of these utensils have small holes to process food through, only the ricer requires that the chef actually force the food by applying pressure. A ricer can be used to make various types of noodles and dumplings among other dishes.

4. The correct answer is Melon

The melon baller cuts out roughly 1" or so sized balls from fruits like cantaloupe, watermelon, honeydew, etc. (I suppose you could fill a bowl with ice cream using it too, but you'd be there a while!)

5. The correct answer is Double boiler

It is essentially a pot over another pot filled with water. The water is brought to a boil which then causes the upper pot to stabilize at a high temperature without the risk of scalding or burning its contents.

6. The correct answer is Foley mill

The original Foley food mill was known for its quality and versatility. Made from stainless steel and extremely durable, these are especially popular with people who do canning, make jellies and jams, or make other goods with fresh fruits and vegetables.

7. The correct answer is Mezzaluna

The mezzaluna ("half moon") is constructed of either one or two curved blades with vertical handles at each end. An efficient rocking motion is used to cut up produce for use. Also referred to as a crescent knife, this utensil can take a little practice to master.

8. The correct answer is Santoku

Santoku translates from Japanese essentially as "three virtues." This is because the knife is so well suited for chopping, dicing and mincing. It looks like a cross between a cleaver and a large chef's knife and is a great tool to have in the kitchen.

9. the correct answer is Ramekin

A ramekin can also be used to serve dishes like soufflés or to individually present a garnish or condiment. Since the ramekin is typically a ceramic dish it has the added feature of being able to be put directly in the oven.

10. The correct answer is Lame

A lame (pronounced "lahm") is a utensil with a razor sharp double sided blade attached to a long handle. The blade can be curved and it is very thin in order to give the bread maker more control over the scoring and, hence, final appearance of the bread.

Hello Beautiful

2010-06-08T11:54:00.000-07:00

You know I have talked about Ciao Bella Sorbets and Gelatos before and so now I am back at it again. Imagine I am browsing through the freezer section at my local Fresh Market Pantry and what do my eyes see, Ciao Bella Key Lime Graham Gelato Squares

Its just like an ice cream sandwich but with a sexy mature twists for those of us who have acquired a much more sophisticated pallate since our childhood. These have to be the best "ice cream snadwiches" that I have ever eatened. It was like having a religious experience! Not only that, Gelato is a little more figure friendly; it has less butterfat and air than American ice cream! Way to go Ciao Bella, it just keeps getting better and better.

The top ten World’s Sexiest foods according to Christina

2010-05-18T12:45:00.001-07:00

1. Cherries-You can drive any man wild with a cherry in your mouth and it makes any woman look sexy!
2. Frozen bananas on a stick dipped in chocolate- You don’t even need a recipe…
3. Brie with honey- melt a wedge of Brie with some honey drizzled on it and serve the melted Brie with apples and grapes. Makes feeding each other a lot of fun!
4. Chocolate covered strawberries and whipped cream- A classic!
5. Cinnamon Buns- Finger licking can be so sweet and sexy….
6. Pineapple- It’s sweet and juicy and you will have so much fun licking the juice that’s inevitably running down your forearm. Soak some pineapples rings in Rum if you so dare.
7. Chocolate fondue- Chocolate releases the same chemicals as sex… Do I need to say anymore about that?
8. Artichokes- An artichoke that has been rubbed with lemon and steamed to tenderness is quiet erotic. Enjoy by plucking each warm leaf from the bud, dipping it in melted butter, place it on your tongue, and close your teeth upon it; slide the succulent morsel between your clenched teeth and savor it.
9. Ice Cream Cones-Yes, ice cream cones, its old fashion and romantic; and think about how sexy it is to see your partner licking all of that luscious cream dripping down the sides. I always check out how a man licks an ice cream cone…. Moving on along
10. Anything you can eat with your fingers – Think Moroccan or Middle-Eastern dishes

Are you a cosmetics junkie?

2010-05-18T12:09:00.000-07:00

1. On your vanity, one would find
A. All types of cosmetics of most of the brands.
B. Cosmetics of the one-two brands I like most.
C. Only the basic cosmetics, a girl would need.

2. Whenever you go out, what do you apply?
A. My make-up routine would include foundation, concealer, talc, eye-liner, mascara, lipstick, etc.
B. A little face and eye make-up, and a lipstick.
C. A lipstick, and a face cream.

3. How much time do you take to wear your make-up?
A. An hour at least.
B. 15-25 minutes at least.
C. 5 minutes is enough.

4. Going for a party, what look do you prefer?

A. Totally glamorous, shimmering and shining. A diva look.
B. Subtle but still a gorgeous look.
C. A simple look.

5. How often do you buy new cosmetics?

A. When a new product is launched.
B. When I feel, I have over-used my current cosmetics.
C. Only when my current ones completely run out.

6. You wear make-up,
A. Most of the time. I adopt a simple routine, even at home.
B. Only when I go out.
C. Only on occasions, that demands it. Else I avoid.

7. How much do you spend on cosmetics?
A. Most of my money.
B. A sizable amount, but not too much.
C. Hardly anything

Mostly As
You are a complete cosmetics junkie. You love to be a total glam doll. You wouldn't dream of stepping out without your make-up.
Mostly Bs
You like cosmetics, but you aren't freaky about make-up. You prefer to keep a subtle but great look. You have a balanced outlook towards cosmetics
Mostly Cs
You are not a cosmetics junkie at all. You avoid make-up whenever you can. And if you do use cosmetics, your use is minimal.

Eat your way to healthy skin

2010-05-14T12:36:00.000-07:00

EAT FRUIT FOR BREAKFAST
Did you know that while you sleep your body is detoxifying and cleansing out the waste material from previous day? This is very important for healthy skin as these toxins and waste material can cause acne and other skin problems.Eating heavy breakfast in the morning forces your body to stop this cleansing process and to start digesting food.Fresh, ripe fruits on the other hand require very little digestion. So eating a fruits in the morning gives your body few more hours to do the detox and repair work.
AVOID PROBLEMATIC FOOD COMBINATIONS
Different foods require different digestive juices and enzymes. For example, carbohydrates require alkaline digestive juices, while proteins require highly acidic juices.When you eat proteins and carbohydrates at the same meal alkaline and acid neutralize each other and neither gets digested properly. Food just sits in the stomach for hours. The ever-present bacteria putrefy it and create more toxins and pollutants.To keep things simple avoid eating two concentrated foods at the same meal. Concentrated foods are foods that have low water content. Concentrated foods are pretty much anything besides fresh fruits and vegetables.An easy way to avoid wrong food combinations is to replace one concentrated food with salad or steamed/stir-fried vegetables. Try it, and your skin will thank you for it.Fruits should always be eaten alone as they move through the stomach very quickly. But, if you eat them after concentrated foods, fruits can’t move through the stomach. They just sit in the stomach, and ferment rapidly.
EAT YOGURT
Yogurt is the only dairy product that is good for your skin. During the fermentation process the probiotic bacteria make it easily digestible. The probiotic bacteria in yogurt are also very important for healthy, radiant skin because they improve the immune system and kill bacteria that cause acne and other skin problems.Avoid any yogurts sold at supermarkets. In most cases they contain no live bacteria and are practically useless. Make sure that the yogurt you eat is made of organic milk and is pasteurized before the probiotic bacteria is cultivated. Ask your local health store for recommendations.
GREEN SMOOTHIES
Green smoothies are amazing skin food. Green smoothies come loaded with antioxidants, minerals, vitamins and other micro-nutrients that your skin requires to be healthy and look young.Green smoothies are nothing but fruit smoothies with some green, leafy vegetables blended in. I understand that this may not be the most appealing combination, but here’s the trick. Always use at least 60% fruits and green smoothies taste as good as fruit smoothies do. Here’s one combination to try; bananas, frozen blueberries and spinach or kale with little water.
REPLACE GRAINS WITH SPROUTED GRAINS
Did you know that grains (like wheat) are extremely difficult for humans to digest? Eating too many grain products causes constipation, which is directly linked to acne and other skin and health problems.The healthiest solution would be to stop eating anything made of grains. The next best option is to use sprouted grains. Sprouting makes grains much easier to digest and negates many of the health problems. Ask your local health store for bread and pasta made of sprouted grains.
BEAUTIFUL SKIN IS NOT JUST SKIN DEEP
Beautiful skin is a reflection of a healthy and well functioning body. Practically all skin problems, like acne, eczema, rashes, dryness, etc..., have their roots at imbalances in the body. By eating and living healthy you begin to correct the imbalances and your skin regains the healthy, beautiful glow.

Shoe trivia

2010-05-10T10:04:00.000-07:00

What percentage of women said they were willing to give up sex in exchange for a really great pair of shoes?
A. 5%
B. 12%
C. 22%
D. 34%

Post your answer/comment.

Summer Skin Smoothies

2010-04-29T10:02:00.000-07:00

Healthy Summer Glow Smoothie
1/2 pint fresh strawberries, stems removed
1/2 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored and chopped
2 ripe bananas, peeled
3 tablespoons honey
3/4 coconut water
2 cups medium ice cubes
Process in blender until smooth. Serve immediately or freeze until slushy.

Papaya & Red Raspberry Sexy Skin Smoothie
1/2 giant papaya, or 1 whole small one (no seeds or skin)
1 pint fresh red raspberries (yes, you can use frozen as backup, but there’s no true replacement for fresh)
2 cups Coconut water
1 cup of ice
Scoop out the papaya flesh into the blender. Add the raspberries, ice, coconut water, and blend.
Papaya Improves Digestion… and Pore Clarity!

The one thing that I really love about smoothies, is its like having a cocktail minus the calories of alcohol. The next time you are having a smoothie and you want to look really cool or chic, enjoy it with a Glass Straw from Glass Dharma! www.glassdharma.com/straws
Not only does it look cool, it’s a green thing to do!

What makes you feel like a lady?

2010-04-27T10:50:00.000-07:00

I feel sexy when I wear pink lip gloss and drink from martini glasses.I feel like a lady when my date brings me yellow tulips. I feel feminine when I polish my nails and fan them through the air to make them dry faster......

What makes you feel like a lady? Post your response in the comment area!

tylarnes said...
...in my little black cocktail dress!
April 28, 2010 6:48 PM

Zepp said...
What makes me feel like a lady? When I have my "ME DAY"; pampering myself with getting my hair, nails and feet done.

Shoe trivia

2010-04-21T08:42:00.000-07:00

How many hours per year does the average women spend shopping for shoes?
A. 10
B. 20
C. 30
D. 40

Post your answer in the comment section!

D. Women spend 40 hours and 30 minutes shopping for shoes every year, over the course of 15 shoe shopping trips!

'These heels are made for walkin'

2010-04-16T12:38:00.000-07:00

Just thought I would share a little shoe advice....

1. “Change heel heights several times a month. Feet and legs shouldn’t be allowed to mold themselves to any one shoe shape."
2. “Shoes are an emotional accessory; hurt your feet, hurt your feelings.”
3. “Befriend a salesperson who will tell you if a shoe will actually feel as good as it looks.”
4. “If you feel all the weight in the front of your foot, this heel’s your arch enemy literally.”
5. “Your foot needs to ‘sit’ in a shoe. If you can wedge two fingers between your sole and the shoe — bye-bye!
”6. “Platforms should be no more than one-and-a-half inches high — or you’re dangling off a cliff.”
7. “Think Cinderella: A heeled shoe must fit perfectly. Faking it with the wrong size will get ugly.”

Date Night

2010-04-12T11:24:00.000-07:00

No one has mastered the art of getting ready for date night better than I have and I realized this weekend that I have it down to a perfect science. I am so good that while getting ready for my date I comprised this list of how to get ready for a hot date in less an hour.

Confirm your date-If he has not called at least 3 hours before the date then give him a ring.
Pick out an outfit-Make sure it's fitting for the occasion. A good rule of thumb: If you’re having dinner after 7pm then its best to be a little dressier. This is your time to wear something really sexy. If you are having lunch, then go a little more casual. Always check with your date for logistics. This will help you to plan appropriate attire. If he says it’s a surprise, then ask him what attire is best fitting. I would hate for you to show up for paintball in your little black dress.
Relax - Put on some music while you get ready to put yourself in a good and playful mood.
When showering, use a nice smelling shampoo and conditioner and a scented body wash. Wax or shave your underarms and your legs; especially if you're wearing a dress or a skirt.
Brush your teeth and style your hair - Use a good mouthwash and be certain to floss your teeth really well. Pop in a mint or two or maybe a piece of gum to freshen your breath.
Style your hair so that it compliments your face. Don’t go overboard with styling gels and sprays. Keep it soft and touchable.
Take your time to apply your make-up- Set asisde an hour before your date picks you up to put on your face. You want it to look fresh but also have the chance to set and not look to “done”. If you have blemishes try using a concealer or foundation as a cover up, but make sure that you blend it well.
Waterproof eye makeup is always a good idea along with some type of color-stay lip color. You don’t want to spend your whole night touching up. If you are going to have on gloss, wear some that is not too sticky. You may want to kiss him at some point in the date.
Ditch your big oversized handbag for something small and trendy. Having a sexy clutch handbag just screams glamour even when you have on jeans and heels.
Always carry a small perfume (sample sizes are perfect) to freshen up and some breath mints.
Get dressed- When putting on your outfit, try not to smear your make-up.
Have fun and remember to just be yourself and be open to new places, foods, and experiences!
And please don't wear flats on a first date; wear your heels and a fun dress. If its summer time and cute sundress and open toe sandals can go along way; it’s such a soft and feminine look!

Sprinkles Cupcakes

2010-04-07T13:17:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite treats to eat is cupcakes and the very popular Sprinkles Cupcakes based in L.A are selling their cupcake mixes in Williams-Sonoma. They come in lemon, Vanilla, Chocolate and Red Velvet. I am telling you all of this because these are going to be hands down the easiest cupcakes to make and the hands down the best cupcakes you can make from a prepared mix or box.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day right?

2010-04-01T09:11:00.000-07:00

I usually like to wait for overnight guests to serve a delicious breakfast like this, but I am afraid I may have to treat myself to this recipe this weekend. It is Easter weekend and what better way to start an Easter Sunday than to have Chocolate French Toast!

Chocolate French Toast
16 1/2-inch slices French bread, cut on the diagonal
6 to 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, broken into large pieces
4 eggs, lightly beaten
1 1/3 cups milk
1 1/4 teaspoons vanilla
3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt
1/4 cup melted butter
1/4 cup confectioner's sugar
Place 8 slices of French bread in a single layer in a buttered 9 X 13 baking dish. Divide the chocolate pieces among the slices and place the remaining bread on top.
Whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Pour the mixture over the top of the sandwiches. After about 20 minutes, turn the sandwiches over, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until the liquid is absorbed, at least 2 hours, or overnight.
Remove the dish from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking. Drizzle melted butter over the tops of the sandwiches and bake in a preheated 425° oven until golden brown and set, about 30 minutes.
Dust with confectioner's sugar

Fruit Pizza

2010-03-31T12:53:00.000-07:00

My girlfriend Mandy mentioned fruit pizza the other day and I forgot how much I love it.

I remember making this as a kid in my first grade class and later when I became a teacher I made it with my students too. It is such a treat whether you are young or old and it makes me think of picnics in the spring time. This is an easy recipe that I hope you try. Enjoy!

Fruit Pizza
1 (20-ounce) package refrigerated sugar cookie dough

1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, room temperature

1/3 cup sugar

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract or other flavoring (almond, orange, or lemon)

Fresh blueberries, banana slices, and strawberry halves1/2 cup orange, peach, or apricot preserves

1 tablespoon water

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
Press cookie dough into pizza pan into a circle shape. Bake 12 minutes or until light brown; remove from oven and cool on a wire rack.
In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract or other flavoring; spread over cookie crust. Arrange fruit over cream cheese layer in any design you want (use your imagination).
In a small saucepan over very low heat, make a glaze by heating preserves and water. Brush glaze over fruit, making sure to cover the fruit that will turn dark. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Makes 8 to 10 servings.

Easy Lemon Chiffon Cake

2010-03-24T12:26:00.000-07:00

As you know, I have mentioned a few times that I am planning on enjoying some spring treats this season but would like to make them a little more figure friendly not to mention easy to make in a flash. This recipe is one that I am considering making for Easter Day dessert and it actually is made from a box of cake mix!

Ingredients
1 (18.25 ounce) package white cake mix
1 (3.4 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
1 (3.4 ounce) package instant lemon pudding mix
1 cup milk (I use coconut milk)
1 (16 ounce) package frozen (fat free) whipped topping, thawed
1 pint fresh strawberries, sliced

Directions
Mix cake and vanilla pudding mix together then follow cake mix directions and bake as directed for 2 - 9 inch round pans. Allow to cool.
To Make Filling: Mix together instant lemon pudding mix with milk until thickened. Fold in 8 ounces of the whipped topping. Spread half of lemon pudding mixture on one cake layer and top with sliced strawberries.
Add second cake layer and spread with remaining lemon filling. Arrange sliced strawberries over top of lemon filling. Frost sides of cake with remaining 8 ounces whipped topping.
I dont use sugar free products but you can feel free to use the sugar free pudding mix instead of the regular if you are watching your sugar intake or diabetic.

The morning after girls night out breakfast

2010-03-22T12:44:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I had girl's night out with my sisters and we had a blast. Since everyone slumbered at my house, it was only fitting that I make them breakfast (even after being up till 2:30am).
But of course you know after a late night of hanging out the last thing you want to do is stand over the stove and flip pancakes. So the trick is to make a one dish meal that you can serve with some easy sides. I made a breakfast casserole that is so easy to put together that you will have your friends and family fed in no time.
Christina's Breakfast Casserole
You will need:
6 eggs
1 cup milk
1 bag shredded cheese
1/2 cup already chopped onions (found in the produce section)
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
2 cups frozen shredded hash browns
1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper
Spray the bottom of your casserole dish with cooking spray. (I use canola) then layer the bottom with hash browns. Beat together eggs and milk and pour mixture over the hash browns. Toss in your onions and mushrooms and cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes in the oven at 350 degrees.
You can also add bell peppers or tomatoes to this casserole and it would be just as good!

The great thing about this dish is that it can be made the night before and you placed in your fridge if you know your going to have a long night. In the morning you can just pop it in the oven!
I served it with fruit salad and blueberry muffins.

Shoe Trivia

2010-03-18T12:02:00.001-07:00

Who invented the contemporary stiletto?

A. Salvatore Ferragamo
B. Christian Dior
C. Coco Chanel
D. Cristóbal Balenciaga

post your answer.....

Buh Bye Corn Flakes

2010-03-17T14:52:00.000-07:00

You know, even though I like good food and I think I have a pretty good palate, there is still a little part of me that just loves boxed cereal and low budget food. Yes, the ramen noodles, pop tarts and the occasional boxed macaroni and cheese sometimes creep up into my cabinets.
So I have to be honest, I am all kinds of excited about trying Cupcake Pebbles! Yes that's what I said, Cupcake Pebbles. I know, I know, it sounds kind of juvenile but I just have to have it. I think it's because my mama never bought fancy cereals for me growing up. She stuck to hot oatmeal, Cheerios (without the sugar) or Corn Flakes. So sad but true.....

Anyway, dont cry for me,I am going out this weekend to get me a box and I will let you know how it goes.

Pantone Spring 2010 Colors

2010-03-11T13:45:00.000-08:00

Turquoise (vibrant blue-green)
Tomato Purée (classic red)
Fusion Coral (warm orange)
Violet (light purplish hue)
Tuscany (warm beige)
Aurora (slightly greenish yellow)
Amparo Blue (a warmer navy)
Pink Champagne (delicate pale neutral)
Dried Herb (green neutral)
Eucalyptus (practical gray)
As you can see, black is out! Well, at least for Spring 2010. There are also a lot of neutrals which area always a staple with Spring fashions. The color trends are going for a brighter, cheery and hopeful outlook on life. Looks like Spring is going to be a beautiful season for fashion!

Tip Time from Christina

2010-03-09T11:40:00.000-08:00

Stained Nails
It’s hard to resist those gorgeous vixen nail polish colors that come in dark sexy reds and wines, but taking it off is not always so easy and the colors stain your nails. I found a great tip.
Try Arm and Hammer Peroxi Care toothpaste. Just put a little bit on an old toothbrush and brush your nail clean. Works great!

Red Wine Caramel Apples (adapted from Gourmet Magazine)

2010-03-09T11:35:00.000-08:00

8 small McIntosh apples, stemmed, washed well, and dried

1 1/2 cups red wine

2 cups sugar
1/2 cup water
6 tablespoons heavy cream

Insert a wooden stick halfway into each apple at stem end. Line a tray with wax paper and lightly grease paper.
Boil wine in a small saucepan over medium heat until reduced to 1/2 cup, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
Bring sugar and water to a boil in a 21/2- to 3-qt heavy saucepan over medium heat, stirring until sugar has dissolved, then wash down any sugar crystals from side of pan with a pastry brush dipped in cold water. Boil, without stirring, swirling pan occasionally so caramel colors evenly, until dark amber. Add reduced wine (mixture will bubble up and steam) and swirl pan. Add cream and simmer, stirring, until incorporated, then continue to simmer until thermometer registers 238°F. Remove from heat and cool to 200°F.
Holding apples by the sticks, dip them in caramel and swirl to coat, letting excess drip off, then hold apples up (stick end down) for about 15 seconds to allow more caramel to set on apples. Put caramel apples, stick side up, on greased wax paper and let stand until caramel firms up, about 30 minutes.
If caramel becomes too thick to coat apples, reheat over low heat to loosen.

Sin Free Sangria

2010-03-08T13:04:00.000-08:00

Someone commented on the blog with a great link for this cocktail recipe and I am excited to try. I love Sangria and this recipe uses Fre Alcohol Removed Chardonnay. Great for a mother's day brunch or a ladies fellowship meet up at church! Thank you!
1 bottle Fre Chardonnay
1 cup orange juice
1/2 cup cranberry juice
1/2 cup soda water
1 whole orange, sliced
1 whole lemon, sliced
1 whole lime, sliced
Add all ingredients to a large pitcher; Stir and serve over ice in wine glasses!

http://www.smallscreennetwork.com/video/378/inspired_sips_alcohol_free_behind_the_bar

Spring Desserts

2010-03-03T07:54:00.000-08:00

If you are like me- you love sweets but want to keep your sexy waistline.
So I have began searching for ways to fine tune those decadent spring and summer treats to make them more figure friendly. Some of the treats that I love to indulge in during the spring and summer months are Strawberry shortcake, banana pudding, grasshopper pie, Lemon Chiffon Cake, Blueberry Cheese Cake Bars, and one of my favorites, Petit Fours. So I am on a quest to make these treats a little more forgiving and I am starting with banana pudding.
What can I say, I am a sweetie… get it? Sweetie, Like Foodie? Well whatever. Enjoy!
Low Fat Banana Pudding!
3-3/4 cups cold unsweetened coconut milk,
divided2 pkg. (4-serving size each) JELL-O Vanilla Flavor pudding
32 Reduced Fat NILLA Wafers
2 bananas, sliced
2 cups thawed COOL WHIP FREE Whipped Topping
Pour milk into large bowl. Add pudding mixes. Beat with wire whisk 2 minutes or until well blended. Let stand 5 minutes. Fold in one cup of Cool Whip into the pudding.Arrange layer of wafers on bottom and up side of 2-quart serving bowl; Add layer of banana slices; top with 1/3 of the pudding. Repeat layers; Spread the remaining whipped topping over pudding.REFRIGERATE 3 hours or until ready to serve.
You can also substitute the Cool Whip with low fat vanilla yogurt in the pudding mix.

Fre Wine

2010-03-01T10:01:00.000-08:00

This past weekend my good friend Lisa introduced me to a alcohol removed wine called Fre Wine and it was fantastic. I was pleasantly surprised by the smooth taste that is so similar to regular wine. I did some research and Fre wines offer seven varieties including two festive sparkling varieties. Now you may be wondering why should I drink wine when it is alcohol free and my answer is:
1) When the alcohol is removed, many of the calories are removed as well.
2) Breastfeeding mothers can now enjoy a glass of wine whenever they so desire
3) If you are like me you are less likely to become super sleepy after you have had a glass
4) Last but not least, it gives you an option to offer your guest when you are entertaining at your home. We never want to ever send anyone driving home when they are tipsy!

http://www.frewines.com/

The Grapes Of Wrath

2010-02-24T10:30:00.000-08:00

I have been learning more and more lately about food and wine pairings. And while I am not really a wine connoisseur, I do enjoy an occasional glass of good wine and I have found that it is important thing to know as a hostess. Ladies, you never know when you will have to put together a dinner party for your husband’s boss or colleagues and even though you could easily charm them the way you charmed your sweetie, you will still need to know and understand the art of creating an enchanting evening. So here is to Wine and Food Pairings 101. Cheers!
The rules for wine pairing are fairly simple; certain flavors of food and wine marry better together than others. Now it isn't unheard of to have a white wine with meat or a red wine with fish or seafood, you just don't want to serve a very strong tasting wine with a delicate entree, or the other way around.
The wine and the food should compliment each other, not work against each other. The fundamental rule is to begin by pairing delicate wines with delicate flavors, medium-bodied wines with medium-weight or intensity flavors, and strongly flavored foods with wines that will stand up to their pungency.

Dessert Cocktails

2010-02-23T11:06:00.001-08:00

No matter how hard I try I just can’t seem to get away from the sweeter things in life. But that’s neither here nor there right now. The next time you are planning to have friends over for dinner consider serving a dessert cocktail in place of dessert. It muy caliente!
Oatmeal Cookie
1oz Baileys Irish Creme
1oz Jagermeister
1oz butterscotch schnapps
1/2oz cinnamon schnapps
Shake ingredients cold and serve in a bucket glass on the rocks.

Raspberry Truffle
1oz raspberry liqueur such as a Chambord
1oz coffee liqueur such as Kahlua
1oz cream
Shake ingredients cold and strain into a martini glass. Sprinkle a dash of coco powder on top as a garnish.

The way to a man's heart is....

2010-02-22T10:36:00.000-08:00

I believe that Men love two things, Sex and food. Real simple. They are just not as complex as we are ladies.
But you know what? Maybe that's not always enough....
There just may be a little bit more that we are missing and I intend to find out what is is and deliver it to all of us misguided at times, occasionally over-indulged, well meaning divas.
Stay tuned in and make sure your sisters, girlfriend and neighbors stay tuned in as well, because I have taken it upon myself to really tap into the heart of men and find out what is that they truly want in a woman. Wish me luck!
To be continued…..
http://lovelanguageofmen.blogspot.com/

Chocolate Bread Pudding

2010-02-19T08:32:00.000-08:00

I am about to start my Summer Beauty Boot Camp (March 1) and for me that means bye- bye to sweet fatty foods (but only for a little while). I will be heading down to Miami in May to shoot my first bikini calendar for 2011.
So I think I should have one last hurrah this week before I kick in the discipline. This weekend I am going to be making brownies for a friend, Crème Brulee Cream pie for another friend and Chocolate Bread Pudding for me (ooooh aaaaaah:)
And since I plan to taste everything it is only fitting that I start my boot camp diet a week later!
Chocolate Bread Pudding
Ingredients
· 4 cups milk
· 4 eggs
· 1/2 cup sugar
· 8 tablespoons butter or margarine
· 12 ounces semisweet chocolate chips
· 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
· 2 packages of frozen French toast (cut into small cubes)
· 1 pint heavy cream, whipped
Directions
1. Whisk the milk, eggs, and sugar in a medium saucepan. Add the butter and chocolate and heat over low heat, stirring only until the butter and chocolate melt. Stir in the vanilla.
2. Lightly coat a 13-by-9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Arrange the bread slices in 3 layers. Pour the chocolate sauce over the bread.
3. Cover with plastic wrap and place another baking dish on top to weigh down the bread. Set aside for 1 hour to allow the bread to absorb the sauce. Heat oven to 325° F.
4. Remove the top baking dish and plastic. Bake uncovered 35 to 40 minutes or until set. Serve warm with whipped cream.

Sof Sole healed my soles….

2010-02-16T12:34:00.000-08:00

Ladies there is nothing worse than being out on date night and having on your sexiest pair of shoes and your feet are screaming get me out of here!

So until your man sweeps you off your feet, you better try Sof Soles Women’s Apara Gel products because you just may be on them for a while.
I have to admit, I have been known to sacrifice comfort over a hot sexy shoe any day of the week, but to my rescue comes Sof Sole.
The folks at Sof Sole were kind enough to send me some complimentary Sof Sole's Womens Apara products and now I am hooked! I have tried so many other products but did not get the same comfort that the Gel Steppies and Heel Appeal gave me.
They offer the Steppies, Strappies, Heel Appeal Insoles, Slingies, Arch Appeal and much more.
Heel Appeal prevents the heel from slipping in shoes and features an adhesive backing for permanent placement. Steppies feature gel cushioning for the ball of the foot and improves shoe fit, they also have pressure sensitive adhesive backing for permanent placement. Strappies are flexible gel cushioning for straps, they improve shoe comfort and fit and feature an adhesive backing for permanent placement and Arch Appeal gives you instant arch support
Check out their products for yourself. You can thank me later!

http://www.sofsole.com/

The Women's Sof Sole Apara Pack is a runway model's dream come true!
http://www.shoebuy.com/sof-sole-apara-pack/175241

Easy Weekday Dinner

2010-02-16T06:29:00.000-08:00

Sometimes you just want to make a meal that is not going to take a lot of effort and too many ingredients. Just as we all have that sensible pair of shoes in our closets we should also have an easy, reliable recipe that we can pull together without a lot of fuss.

Baked chicken with sweet onions and butter
4 chicken breasts
Flour, seasoned with fresh thyme, salt and pepper, and cumin
2 medium sweet onions chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 to 4 cups chicken broth
1/4 to 1/2 cup butter
Olive oil
Toss chicken with seasoned flour and arrange in a shallow baking dish that has been coated in olive oil. Cover the chicken with onions. Pour broth into pan, just until onions are covered. Dot with butter and bake in a 350° oven for 1 hour.
Serve with basmati rice (prepare by the directions on the package) and sautéed green beans.

What to do with the left over Valentine's day candy?

2010-02-15T13:30:00.000-08:00

Okay, now that Valentine's Day is over (I hope that everyone enjoyed spending time with that special someone) I have two questions for you. Did you get chocolates? And have you eaten them all yet?

Well if you have not consumed them all, then it is always a nice gesture to say thank you to the person who gave them to you by making brownies. And guess what is going to go into the brownie batter. That's right, the left over chocolates!
I have done this for years and it really is so simple. I just buy a box of brownie mix and prepare the batter as directed, then I finely chop the chocolates and mix them into the batter. Its so good and so easy. And really, nothing says I love you more than a sweet treat for your man. So ladies, let him know just how much you appreciated his thoughtful gesture and get to baking!

Smooth Legs and Sexy Feet

2010-02-10T13:55:00.000-08:00

You know I am a high heel shoe girl so of course I am concerned with foot presentation! You must buff those heels! This may bear repeating. You must buff those heels! :)
You may even need to do this now if you have neglected your feet over the winter. If you don’t have time to go and get a pedicure, try Express Pedicure by Art Deco.
An uplifting experience for skin and senses: micro-fine crystals from Himalayan salt with rich minerals and a selected combination of natural oils (jojoba, almond, sunflower, grape and apricot oil) gives feet incomparable suppleness. The nourishing peeling Express Pedicure gently removes callus and excess cuticle, while refreshing with orange and cinnamon scent.
http://www.asienservice.com/en/natural-products/artdeco

If you don’t want to spend too much, then try making your own foot soak at home by mixing a a small cup (1/2 cup for a foot bath) of epsom salts with a couple of drops of peppermint oil. Soak for 10 to 15 min to soften feet. Scrub heels with a pumice stone use the following home made foot scrub:
1½ cups Sea Salt ,¼ cup Sweet Almond Oil , 2 drops Peppermint Essential Oil , 3 drops Lavender Essential Oil
In a bowl, combine together sea salt and almond oil. The mixture should hold well. If it doesn't and seems dry, add almond oil, by the tablespoon, till you get the desired consistency. Add peppermint oil and lavender oil. Mix well.

Wearing a hot mini on your Valentine’s date? Planning to show some skin at some point in the night?
Since its winter and we have not had the chance to soak up some sun, let’s fake it! We want are legs to look long, lean and tan. My suggestion, Nivea Sun-Kissed Beautiful Legs. It produces a tanned look to your legs, over time and it actually feels soft and moisturizing on your skin.

Head to Toe Beauty

2010-02-10T12:30:00.000-08:00

Ladies, to look your absolute best on Valentine’s day, you have to start now.
First things first:
Let’s cover the kiss
Your lips must kissable and ready so you will want to start tonight with a lip scrub. Try Sara Happ lip exfoliate in Vanilla Bean.
http://www.sarahapp.com/
Can’t afford to buy make a purchase? Try this simple recipe at home”
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon cocoa
2 teaspoon almond oil (or coconut oil)
Mix together to form a paste and gently rub on your lip area to remove any dry, chapped skin. Rinse and apply a soothing lip balm.

Try Alma one coat lip cream. This stuff is fantastic!

The Breath… Can someone say important? When he goes in for the kiss, you done want to scare him off, so try GOSMILE - Elixir - good-for-you breath freshener. It is packed with smileceuticals, (a special blend of antioxidants and vitamins that freshens breath by creating an optimal pH balance inside the mouth).

And as always, you have to give him something he can taste; he wont be able to get enough of your sweet kisses when you wear flavored lip gloss. Mmmmm:

Try Calvin Klein Delicious Pout - Flavored Lip Gloss (has hints of strawberries)

For the younger girls, I would stick with Bonnie Bell lip Smackers. (I had one in every flavor when I was 14:)

Enjoy!

Valentine's Day Dessert Options-Engage your senses

2010-02-05T05:05:00.000-08:00

Blackberry Cabernet Sorbetto by Ciao Bella
What you will taste-The first thing you taste is a wonderful explosion of berries and currants.
The color- It's a beautiful color, almost as if the raspberries, cherries, and blueberries had an orgy, and then gave birth to a beautiful purple baby!
The Feeling-You know the way good red wine tastes after you've held it in your mouth for a few seconds so that it's warmed slightly from your own body heat, and then you swallow it? That's exactly what it’s like when the flavor that kicks in.
Sounds coming from your mouth- The moans of you and your partner savoring this delicious treat.

Valentine's Day Humor

2010-02-03T11:17:00.000-08:00

The little blue pill works wonders in men. But the little blue box does amazing things to some women...

A little boy asked his father, "Daddy, how much does it cost to get married?" And the father replied, "I don't know, son, I'm still paying for it."

A young woman was taking an afternoon nap. After she woke up, she told her husband, "I just dreamed that you gave me a pearl necklace for Valentine's day. What do you think it means?" "You'll know tonight," he said. That evening, the man came home with a small package and gave it to his wife. Delighted, she opened it--only to find a book entitled "The meaning of dreams".

At Home Ideas for Valentine's Day

2010-02-02T10:34:00.000-08:00

Plan to have a couple of hours to eat the meal together. The most romantic meals are the ones when you can linger, take your time, and savor every delicious moment together. Schedule the romantic meal early enough in the evening so you have enough time to spend with one another. Here are

-Buy a canvas and pains and make a painting together.
-Rent a French movie and French-kiss all night.
-Enjoy a rousing game of naked Twister.
-Give each other massages
-Write a poem or story together about how you met
-Rent a motor scooter and go for a spin around the neighborhood
-Camp out and kiss under the stars. Roast marshmallows and make smores. This can be dessert.
-Learn a romantic foreign language – French, Italian, and Spanish. Then, practice talking to each other when you make love that night
-Move all the furniture out of the room and decorate the walls with white and blue Christmas lights, spread a blanket out on the living room floor, burn incense, play a CD of your favorite bollywood/belly dance music and have an exotic dessert
-Create a love hunt around the house; have several clues set up for your partner to find that will lead them to romantic encounters, For example, a clue on the front door could lead your partner to the bathroom for a romantic bath prepared by you
-Create your own couples website- upload pictures of yourselves, talk about how you met, links to places you may have gone together
-Check out a romantic book and take turns reading to each other while listening to Brazilian Jazz (book suggestion Sweet Life 2: Erotic Fantasies for Couples by Violet Blue)

He got the reservations, you take care of dessert.

2010-02-01T07:49:00.000-08:00

Why not have a special dessert ready at home after dinner. This recipe is simple and easy to do and can be made ahead of time!

Red Velvet Ice Cream sandwiches
First prepare red velvet cookies
Red velvet cookie recipe
1 (8 ounce) cream cheese, room temperature
1/2 cup butter room temperature (1 stick)
1 egg
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 (18 ounce) box red velvet cake mix
In a large bowl with an electric mixer, cream the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Beat in the egg.
Beat in the vanilla extract.
Beat in the cake mix.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up so that you can roll the batter into balls. After batter has chilled and you're ready to make the cookies, preheat the oven to 350°F.
Roll the chilled batter into tablespoon sized balls and place on an ungreased cookie sheet, 2 inches apart. Bake 12 minutes.
Cool completely and set aside.
Soften 1 ½ gallon of Cheese cake ice cream (it has that luscious cream cheese flavor that will go great with red velvet) See Cold Stone or Baskin Robbins for cheese cake ice cream or other specialty stores.
Using a spoon, dig out a scoop of the ice cream and place it on the flat side of one of the cookies. Place the flat side of the other cookie over the ice cream and press firmly to spread the ice cream over the surface of the cookies. Smooth the edges if you like with a butter knife.
Wrap individually in saran wrap and freeze until ready to serve.

Cupid has long played a role in the celebrations of love and lovers. He is known as a mischievous, winged child, whose arrows would pierce the hearts of his victims causing them to fall deeply in love. In ancient Greece he was known as Eros the young son of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. To the Roman's he was Cupid, and his mother was Venus.

"Cooking in Timberlands"

2010-01-28T07:29:00.000-08:00

I was given an idea recently from a really nice guy who enjoys cooking and suggested that I cover some menus for men “Cooking in Timberlands” and you know what... I agree with him! So this menu is for the guys looking to create that special Valentines Day menu using aphrodisiac ingredients for her.
Shrimp and Almond Stir-Fry
Ingredients
1 pound of shrimp peeled and deveined
1 cup of roasted almonds
1 large bag of Italian-style mixed vegetables
3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves of garlic or 1 teaspoon of minced garlic
Half teaspoon of sea salt
Fourth teaspoon of ground black pepper
Dash of cinnamon
Half cup of grated parmesan cheese
Heat olive oil in large stir fry wok. Add shrimp and garlic.
Cook shrimp alone for two to three minutes. Add vegetables and seasonings.
Add almonds. Cook, stirring often, for approximately ten minutes.
Pour mixture into serving bowl. Add grated parmesan cheese to the top and serve.

The scent and taste of vanilla is one of the oldest aphrodisiacs and Chocolate stimulates neurotransmitters in your brain to make you feel sensual. This is the perfect dessert and she will appreciate the effort you put into making it!
Chocolate Fried Ice Cream
1 quart of your favorite vanilla ice cream
1 cup vanilla wafer crumbs (about 30 wafers, crushed)
1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
1/2 cup coconut
3 tablespoons Cocoa
2 eggs, slightly beaten
Vegetable oil (Coconut Oil)
With scoop, form 6 ice cream balls. Place on wax paper-covered tray. Cover; freeze several hours or until very firm. In bowl, stir together crumbs, nuts, coconut and cocoa; set aside. Coat ice cream balls with crumb mixture, pressing crumbs firmly into ice cream. Dip balls in beaten egg; coat again with crumb mixture. Place on wax paper-covered tray; freeze 2 hours or until very firm. Just before serving, heat 2-inches oil in fry pan or deep fryer to 375 degrees F. Remove 2 balls at a time from freezer; fry in hot oil 20 to 25 seconds or until browned. Drain; serve immediately.

Aphrodisiac Cooking 101

2010-01-27T08:53:00.000-08:00

Well if you remember, I blogged last week about the foods of Love and what better time than Valentines Day to prepare a meal using those special aphrodisiac ingredients! I have found the perfect menu that will incorporate the asparagus, garlic, bananas and such that is sure to make for a hot and steamy night.
Filet Mignon with mushrooms and Red Wine Sauce (One thing I know about men is that they love Red Meat! So if you are planning to make a special dinner for him for Valentines Day, then chicken just may not cut it).
Ingredients:
2 tbsp. butter, divided
3 tbsp. shallots, minced
1/4 C. fresh shiitake mushrooms, cleaned and stems removed
3/4 C. dry red wine, divided (cabernet is nice)
5 fl. oz. beef consommé (you don’t have to make this, just pick it up at your local grocery store)
fresh ground black pepper, to taste
2 (4 ounce) filet mignon steaks
1/2 tbsp. soy sauce
1 tsp. cornstarch
1 tsp. dried thymefresh thyme (garnish)
Instructions: In a nonstick frying pan, sauté shallots and mushrooms in 1 tbsp butter for about 4 mins, till tender.
Add 1/2 cup of red wine and 3 fl. oz consommé. Simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove the mushrooms from sauce, set aside.
Boil wine mixture over high heat until reduced to 1/4 cup. Combine sauce with mushrooms in bowl. Set aside. In another bowl, combine soy sauce with cornstarch. Set aside.
Sprinkle filets with pepper to taste. Sauté steaks in remaining 1 tbsp butter over medium heat, about 3 minutes per side for a 1-inch thick steak.
Reduce fire to medium-low heat; cook steaks until desired level of doneness. Remove from pan, keep warm.
Add the rest of the red wine and beef consommé to the skillet, scraping to deglaze pan and incorporate tasty steak bits into the sauce. Bring to a boil. Boil for one minute. Add mushroom/sauce mixture, cornstarch/soy sauce mixture, and the thyme. Boil one minute, stirring constantly, until thickened.
Place steaks on plate and pour sauce over. Garnish with fresh thyme. Serves 2.
Garlic Roasted Asparagus
1 lb. green asparagus, washed, ends snapped off
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp. butter
1 tbsp. olive oil
1/2 tbsp. chopped fresh thyme
1/2 tsp. fresh ground black pepper
coarse sea salt, to taste
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Place asparagus in an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle with garlic and dot with butter. Pour olive over asparagus, sprinkle with thyme and pepper. Add salt to taste.
Roast uncovered 40 minutes, tossing halfway through cook time. Serves 2.
Bananas Flambé
Ingredients: 1/4 C. butter
1 C. brown sugar
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
4 bananas
1/4 C. dark rum
1/4 C. banana liqueur
vanilla ice cream
Instructions: Cut peeled bananas in half lengthwise, and then halve each length. Set aside.
In a large skillet combine butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon over med-low heat. Stir until sugar dissolves.
Add bananas. Sauté, stirring gently, until banana pieces begin to cook and brown slightly.
Pour in dark rum and banana liqueur. Heat through, about 30 seconds to one minute.
Tilt skillet slightly. Using a long-handled lighter, ignite the rum and liqueur. Shake gently to spread the flames.
When flames have subsided, serve one banana (4 pieces) with one or two scoops of ice cream, to taste. Spoon over lots of warm sauce. Serve before it melts.

Looking for the perfect gift?

2010-01-26T06:59:00.000-08:00

If you want to make your significant other feel special on Valentines Day, then do something unique and different and big is not always necessarily the right pick.
What do you get her? The universe of course! But in the mean time Her Own Star will just have to do. At the International Star Registry, you can name a star after your sweetheart! With your package you receive a beautiful 12" x 16" parchment certificate with the name of your choice, dedication date, and telescopic coordinates of the star. You'll also receive an informative booklet with charts of the constellations plus a larger, more detailed chart with the star you name encircled in red. Make it even more special by telling her that they have three wishes to make on their star. Make sure you grant each of these wishes!
Valentines is not just for the women. What do we get the men?
Consider gifting your man with something uniquely special also. While most enjoy romance and candles, men really want unbridled physical intimacy! So why not give tem what they want!

My suggestions:
Break out the camera and assimilate a personal “playboy” style photo shoot with him as the photographer/creative director and you as his willing model. But make sure that he knows that the pics are for his eyes only!
Pair that along with some special love tokens from links2love.com. Each set of 10 tokens comes in red pouch imprinted with two intertwined hearts; each one is good for something like “a massage” or good for one kiss. You both will have fun with these.
http://www.links2love.com/buy_romantic_love_tokens.htm
If you want to go a little sexier, than try some racy love coupons that he can cash in anytime he likes; making your own will make it even better and you can create to say whatever you like.

Valentine's Day was named for two men, both Christian martyrs named Valentine who were associated with romantic love in the middle ages.

Count Down to Valentine's Day

2010-01-25T08:27:00.000-08:00

You know it’s getting pretty close to Valentines Day and I have taken it upon myself to help you fire Cupids arrow into the hot spot of love. I hope you have read my previous posts on the Foods of Love and are ready to get started on
a plan for V-day. This is not just for ladies, men you will be included in on this one too!
Day one- Chocolates
Since you will want to put some thought into a special gift, we will start here first. Let’s first talk about chocolates.
What to get you special guy?
Cooking in High Heels Suggests
If your guy likes chocolates, then consider Liquor Filled Chocolate Candy. Pick some with sensual combinations of creamy delicious chocolate filled with cognac, rum, or sherry. He will love you for it!
http://www.candywarehouse.com/liquorfilled.html

If your lady likes chocolate, then you can’t go wrong with Fine Champagne Truffles from La Maison du Chocolat. The center is a smooth, creamy ganache delicately infused with Fine Champagne cognac covered with a layer of dark chocolate and dusted cocoa powder.
http://www.lamaisonduchocolat.us/us/en/product/Cognac-truffles

Meaning of the Word Valentine
The name Valentine comes from the Latin word valor, meaning worthy.

The Foods Of Love

2010-01-19T06:47:00.000-08:00

Asparagus, honey, bananas are among many foods that can get you in the mood and help get your blood flowing down to your hot spots!

Almond-The aroma of almond supposedly arouses passion in females.
Asparagus contains thiamin and folic acid which is said to boost histamine production necessary for the ability to reach orgasm in both sexes. Ooh lala
Bananas -some studies show its enzyme bromelain enhances male performance.
Basil- has a fantastic aroma that is said to have an aphrodisiac effect; it is also very stimulating
Chocolate- contains both a sedative which relaxes and lowers inhibitions and a stimulant to increase activity and the desire for physical contact. Pure dark chocolate contains compounds including anandamide, the psyochoactive feel-good chemical, and PEA (phenylethylamine), the "love chemical," which releases dopamine in the pleasure centers of the brain and peaks during orgasm.(side note Chocolate and red wine is a combination that reacts with chemicals in the brain to produce a relaxed and sexual feeling)
Figs- are very sexy fruits and has long been thought of as an arousing stimulant, and an open fig is believed to emulate the female sex organs. Greeks held them as sacred and associated them with love and fertility.
Garlic- is has plenty of allicin, an ingredient that will increase blood flow. Need I say more?
Oysters- may be thought an aphrodisiac because of their high zinc content, which helps produce sperm and increases libido.

Honey- How can we not mention honey? Sweet, sticky honey is a great source of boron, a trace mineral that helps the body use and metabolize estrogen, the female sex hormone. Studies have shown that this mineral may also enhance testosterone levels in the blood, the hormone responsible for promoting sex drive and orgasm in both men and women.

Two Cooks in the Kitchen= Lots and Lots of Fun!

2010-01-19T06:23:00.000-08:00

There is nothing sexier than preparing a meal side by side with your significant other. This is a great opportunity to bond if you both enjoy cooking or you can hire someone to come in and show the two of you how to prepare a great meal.
Cooking in High Heels Suggestions:

Choose a recipe that neither one of you have tried before- that way its will be a learning experience for the both of you.
Choose to prepare something that you don’t have everyday- if you don’t eat lobster very often then go for that!
Choose foods that are natural aphrodisiacs- Try this scalloped recipe that I have found.
Scalloped Oysters
6 to 8 tablespoons cold butter, cut in small pieces
1 quart oysters, shucked, liquor drained
2 cups cracker crumbs
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup whipping cream
Preparation:
Lightly butter a 1 1/2 to 2-quart casserole dish. Set aside 1/3 cup of cracker crumbs and 1 tablespoons of butter for topping. Cover the bottom of the dish with some of the cracker crumbs then top with a layer of oysters, a layer of crumbs, and some of the butter pieces. Repeat layers until all oysters are used. Season with the salt, pepper and nutmeg. Pour the cream over the dish then top with reserved crumbs and butter. Bake in a preheated 375 degree oven for about 30 minutes, or until heated and browned. Serve immediately.

And don't worry about the mess afterwards; leave the dishes till morning and enjoy each other!

These heels are made for walking!

2010-01-14T11:54:00.000-08:00

1. “Change heel heights several times a day. Feet and legs shouldn’t be allowed to mold themselves to any one shoe shape."

2. “Shoes are an emotional accessory; hurt your feet, hurt your feelings.”

3. “Befriend a salesperson who will tell you if a shoe will actually feel as good as it looks.”

4. “If you feel all the weight in the front of your foot, this heel’s your arch enemy — literally.”

5. “Your foot needs to ‘sit’ in a shoe. If you can wedge two fingers between your sole and the shoe — bye-bye!”

6. “Platforms should be no more than one-and-a-half inches high — or you’re dangling off a cliff.”

7. “Think Cinderella: A heeled shoe must fit perfectly. Faking it with the wrong size will get ugly.”

Shoe Trivia

2010-01-14T11:41:00.001-08:00

Who invented the contemporary stiletto?

A. Salvatore Ferragamo

B. Christian Dior

C. Coco Chanel

D. Cristóbal Balenciaga

Shoe Trivia

2010-01-14T07:03:00.000-08:00

True or False: Wearing high heels can be good for your sex life.

Post your answer in the comment area!

CORRECT ANSWER: True. Experts found that wearing a 3-inch heel strengthened pelvic muscles, also increasing their ability to contract--it's an effortless, on-the-go version of Kegels.

Food For Beauty

2010-01-14T06:59:00.000-08:00

SWEET POTATOES, TOMATOES, CANTALOUPE
Will replenish your skin’s supply of antioxidants.
ORANGES, LEMONS, LIMES, GRAPEFRUIT
It helps keeps collagen -- the supportive protein fibers that stop skin from sagging -- strong and resilient.

For breakfast try
Citrus Salad
Ingredients
· 1 large ruby pink grapefruit
· 3 navel oranges or a combination of naval oranges, blood oranges, mandarin oranges and/or tangerines
· 1/4 cup honey
· 2 Tbsp fresh lime or lemon juice
· 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamon
Method
1 Peel the fruit. Cut away the membranes of the individual segments with a sharp knife. Collect the peeled segments in a bowl.
2 Drain off any excess juice from the fruit into a small saucepan. Add the lime juice, honey, and cardamom to the saucepan. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 10 minutes and then remove from heat and let cool to room temp. Pour over fruit mixture and gently fold in so that all the fruit is coated. Let stand for 15 minutes and gently fold in so that all the fruit is coated. Let stand for 15 minutes or chill until ready to serve.
Serves 4.
Wild salmon
The Omega-3s help keep skin young, supple, and radiant. Wild salmon also contains astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.

For dinner try
Wild Salmon with baked sweet potatoes
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 (6 ounce) salmon
2 tablespoons butter
4 lemon wedges
1. Stir together the garlic powder, basil, and salt in a small bowl; rub in equal amounts onto the salmon fillets.
2. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat; cook the salmon in the butter until browned and flaky, about 5 minutes per side. Serve each piece of salmon with a lemon wedge.
Baked Sweet potato
4 Med. sweet potatoes (8 to 10 oz. ea.), scrubbed
Coarse salt and ground pepper
4 tbsp. (1/2 stick) butter
2 tbsp. Plus 2 tsp. packed dark brown sugar
Preheat oven to 475. With a fork, poke potatoes in several pages. Arrange on a foil-lined baking sheet, bake until tender, about 40 min.
Cut a deep cross in the top of each potato, and push the ends together to make an opening. Sprinkle inside with salt and pepper; dot each potato with 1 tbsp butter and 2 tsp sugar. Serve.

Let's End Childhood Hunger

2010-01-12T12:53:00.000-08:00

As you know I love to cook and especially love to eat but I often think about the many children that are out there that are not getting an adequate amount of food to eat, or are forced to eat food of less quality. Because my full time work is in the non profit field, I see first hand everyday hunger is the most extreme form of poverty, where families cannot afford to meet their most basic need for food.
Children who suffer from hunger are likely to face lifelong challenges including weaker immune systems, stomachaches, headaches, colds, ear infections fatigue. It makes me so sad to know these challenges are preventable. Even when children are not hungry, studies have found that slight shortages of food in their homes are associated with serious problems. I don’t know about you but this really bothers me and I just can’t imagine what it must feel like to go to bed hungry every night.
I hope that you'll agree with me that no child deserves to suffer from a lack of food and to please help me in making a difference to the almost 17 million children who suffer from hunger.
Some things that we can do are:
Make a financial or food donation to a local non profit or food bank
Create a Vegetable Garden
Donate Meal Scholarships for Youth program through a local elementary school
Organize a food drive or fundraiser
Teach Nutrition classes
Distribute food or healthy snacks where children gather in your community
Business Communities can:
Host kids eat free nights
Host summer lunch Program
Conduct Food Preparation Classes
Host a Kid’s Café
http://feedingamerica.org/
http://strength.org/childhood_hunger/
Please leave me a comment and share some ideas on things that we all can do to help fight childhood hunger.

Kindest Regards

Christina

Go Retro

2010-01-12T06:49:00.000-08:00

Why not plan a retro night? This is an entertaining way to jazz up your next dinner party and wear your best vintage attire. Start by deciding on a theme. You can find décor from your local thrift stores for any time period that you may choose and you can even encourage your guest to come dressed the part on the invitation.

I have a great recipe (1950s style) that will be super easy to serve your guests!

Chicken a la King
3lb Chicken Breast, cooked4 oz Mushrooms, sliced1 Green Pepper, de-seeded & sliced1 stick salted Butter1 tablespoon Plain Flour1 cup Chicken Stock1/4 cup heavy Cream
Boil Chicken for 30 min, cool then cut into large chunks. Sauté the mushrooms and Green Pepper in the Butter until soft; Stir in the Flour and Stock. Bring to the boil. Add the Chicken and cook until the Chicken is hot. Add the Cream. Serve with Boiled Rice. Serves 4.

Serve with a classic drink from the 50s
Harvey Wallbanger
1 fl oz vodka
4 fl oz orange juice
1/2 fl oz Galliano
Pour vodka and orange juice over ice cubes in a collins glass.
Stir and float Galliano on top.
See more about Retro Party planning in Cooking in High Heels.

"Counter- Intelligence"

2010-01-07T11:38:00.000-08:00

We have all been there - You go into the department store with certain intent of purchase and you end up buying some dreadful cosmetic product that you hate when you get home!
So Ladies, we have got ban together and build up our defenses! So I have gone a mission and completed a threat assessment and I am here to help all misguided divas navigate the complex task of using the make-up counter to your advantage.
Defensive analysis
Approaching the makeup counter can be a little intimidating and those ladies know what they are doing. The women that work at the counters seem so worthy of giving beauty advice because they always look flawless! You think, wow their skin and make-up looks so fabulous so the products that they say they are using must work for me. WRONG! Products don’t work for every single woman every single time. It’s important to know ahead of time your skin type and how your skin responds to certain chemicals. Example, some women’s skin requires that they use oil free products; this is something you would need to know before being sold a product that may cause an adverse reaction to your skin. The more knowledgeable you are about skin and what colors look best on you the more you will be prepared for possible sales tactics.
Defensive “counter-intelligence”
Stay away from the makeup counter when you are depressed, sick, have PMS, are very tired, or are feeling emotional. This will only lead you to spending money on things you don't need or buying things you think you like.
Don’t sit in the chair if you don’t want to spend! Most Beauty advisors think that once they get you in the makeup chair then they will make a sale.
Offensive “counter-intelligence” operations
Sometimes it helps to know what you want before going in! And don’t get caught up making purchases of a certain amount that you don’t need just so you can get a free tote or make-up bag. Those little make-up bags with extra products are nice, but they are usually things you normally would not need or wear.
Never just wander around the counter looking at all and nothing! Normally people frequent makeup counters for one of three reasons. They ran out of their favorite products
Take advantage of the help. Sometimes we are too defensive and we shoot a quick response of "I was just looking", but truthfully, the beauty advisors are very knowledgeable about skin care, products and can really give you some great advice. Don't be afraid to ask questions about anything, after all, you are the one spending the money.
When they encourage you to try a certain product, ask them for a sample. Many counters keep small containers that they can put product in; this way you can take it home and try it out first. See how it reacts to your skin, or if its make-up, see how it looks in regular lighting; the lighting in department stores are very different from daylight and home.

This cold weather is Jamaican me Crazy!

2010-01-07T10:22:00.000-08:00

There is nothing that I love more than Jamaican food, (except for Jamaican men) and since it’s so cold in our country right now, why don’t we transform our next dinner into a hot island affair. Throw a bright flowered print tablecloth on the table, put on a little Reggae music, turn the heat up just a tad, put on a sundress and stick a flower in your hair. You will forget about going out in this snowy weather AND any cold weather blues you may have. If you have any seashells at home, put them in a big bowl and use them as a centerpiece! Party and have fun, but if you party too late you can always use Smashbox Photo Op under eye brightner in the AM.
Grilled Shrimp Kabobs over island rice
1 red pepper cut into medium size pieces
1 green pepper cut into medium size pieces
1 red onion cut into medium size pieces
1lb shrimp (washed and deveined)
12 Cherry tomatoes
Prepare marinade and set aside
¼ cup red wine vinegar
¼ cup olive oil
1 tsp ginger
2 cloves of garlic minced

To make marinade, in small bowl combine oil, red wine vinegar, salt, garlic, and ginger.
On 4 skewers alternate shrimp and vegetables. When completed pour marinade over the shrimp kabobs and marinade for 3-4 hours if possible.
When you are ready to grill the shrimp place the kabobs on a grill pan and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side. If you don’t have a grill pan or a grill, you can place them on a 10 inch baking dish and broil for 5 minutes on each side 4 inches from the heat in your oven.
Prepare yellow rice according to package directions and set aside. I like Goya.
When kabobs are ready, put rice and kabobs on a large serving dish or you can make individual plates.
Beverage Suggestion: Pineapple twister (2 parts pineapple juice and 1 part 7 up)
Adult Beverage Suggestion: Jamaican Rum Punch
See recipe
1 cup fresh lime juice
2 cups grenadine syrup
2 cups Jamaican white rum
1 cup light rum
2 cups fresh pineapple juice
2 cups fresh orange juice
Pinch freshly grated nutmeg, optional
Orange slices, for garnish
Pineapple slices, for garnish
Mix all ingredients together in a pitcher. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with orange or pineapple slices. And definitely don’t forget the little umbrellas!

Berry Diva

2010-01-05T12:32:00.000-08:00

One of the things that I love about spring and summer is the best berries start to become available in the stores again. Now I am lucky to live right next door to Harry's Whole Foods Market http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/ which has a really great selection of fresh fruits and vegetables. I did some research on berries a few years ago and came to realize how much power they actually pack. One of the things that stood out is the anti-aging properties and I have been sold ever since. Now I have made it a priority to find tasy recipes to compliment my "Berry Sweet tooth". During the holidays, I made a White chocolate Marscopone dip to have with our fruit for my sister and I. She loved it!

Berries are low in fat but oh so sweet and delicious.

Natural Supplement
Berries contain a number of healthful compounds including vitamins A, C, E and folic acid; selenium; calcium; poly phenols; and compounds called anthocyanins, which give berries their color. If you need Vitamin C then just one cup of sliced strawberries would do the trick. If your body is deficient in manganese, a cup of blackberries will come to the rescue. Or, if you need niacin, then have a cup of raspberries. If you need Vitamin E or fiber, then a cup of blueberries and strawberries each will be good for you. Blueberries and raspberries even contain lutein, an important ingredient that is known to improve vision.
Beauty
Berries contain a low amount of carbohydrates and are good for your health; Berries are packed with antioxidants that have been linked to stalling the aging process. Yes ladies they can also slow down the aging process!
Berry Care
When you are buying berries, check to see whether they are broken. Broken berries tend to rot quicker than others. Rinse the berries only when you are going to eat them and try to eat them within a few days of purchase. Berries are highly perishable, and should not be exposed to sunlight or kept at room temperature
If you are not going to eat them within a day or two, then keep them in a freezer for your next smoothie or cook them into sauce for a special dessert.
Check out the 15 Healthiest berries that you can eat by clicking the link below!
http://www.sixwise.com/newsletters/05/07/27/the-15-healthiest-berries-you-could-possibly-eat--including-7-most-havent-heard-of.htm
Fresh Black Berry Sauce An uncooked sauce with a lovely blackberry flavor. Serve over vanilla frozen yogurt.
1 1/2 pints blackberries
2 tablespoons blackberry brandy
2 tablespoons orange juice
3 tablespoons honey, preferably berry-blossom honey
Pick over the berries and reserve 1 cup of the smallest and most attractive. Puree the remaining 2 cups berries in a food processor with the brandy, orange juice and honey. Transfer the mixture to a sieve set over a medium bowl. Press the puree through the sieve and discard the seeds. Just before serving, stir in the reserved whole berries.

Berry Diva
1 cup strawberries, plus more for garnish
1/2 cup raspberries, plus more for garnish
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
2 cups nonfat vanilla frozen yogurt
Puree strawberries and raspberries with sugar and lemon juice in a blender. Serve atop a slice of angel food cake.

Have you ever seen an overweight Chinese person? I mean really?

2010-01-05T05:51:00.000-08:00

I don't see very many and I believe that its because they know the secret to healthy eating. Many Chinese recipes don't include as much fattening foods as some of our traditional American dishes. It is the new year and many of us are looking to eat healthier and shape up a bit and
I have decided that I am going to buy a clue from them and began including more of their low fat recipes into my diet.
I have to face the fact that I love to eat and I dont want to compromise taste and flavor. So go with me on my journey to find some great tasting low cal recipes that we can incorporate into our lifestyles. This recipe is easy and wont be lacking in the flavor department.

Chinese Lettuce Wraps
This recipe will include Chinese Five Spice Powder which is a mixture of five spices used in Chinese cuisine; Cinnamon, Ground Fennel Seeds, ground anise, ground cloves and ground Szechuan peppercorns. Five-spice powder encompasses all five flavors - sweet, sour, bitter, pungent, and salty. The Chinese believe that it is important to incorporate the principal of the yin and the yang into their meals, thus the heat of a dish should be counter-balanced by an equally cooling ingredient. You can find this in most grocery stores.

Chinese Lettuce Wraps
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup instant brown rice
2 teaspoons sesame oil
1 pound lean ground turkey
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
1 large red bell pepper, finely diced
1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon five-spice powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 heads Boston (butter lettuce) lettuce, leaves separated (note Butter lettuce is very fragile and its leaves wilt quickly. Store in a perforated bag in the vegetable crisper of the refrigerator)
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro, basil, and chives
1 large bag of shredded carrots
Bring water to a boil in a small saucepan. Add rice; reduce heat to low, cover and cook for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat. Meanwhile, heat oil in a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add turkey and ginger; cook, crumbling with a wooden spoon, until the turkey is cooked through, about 6 minutes. Stir in the cooked rice, bell pepper, water chestnuts, broth, five-spice powder and salt; cook until heated through, about 1 minute.
To serve, spoon portions of the turkey mixture into lettuce leaves, top with herbs and carrot and roll into wraps.

Fashion Fix Commandments of 2010

2010-01-04T10:03:00.000-08:00

Before I talk about any new recipe or cooking tips, I want to make sure that we start the new year off right. This is the year for all bombshells, Divas and fashionistas to take everything to the next level.
This year we have to be on our game from head to toe at all times. Any diva or fashionista worth her salt would not be caught dead with under arms stains, scuffed shoes, worn down heels or bra straps showing. Since we can’t always avoid fashion mishaps we can certainly be ready for them should they arise.

So, I have comprised a list of Fashion Fix Commandments to keep us all looking our best. (you can thank me later)
Thou shalt be no safety pins used on clothing -Hollywood Fashion Tape- This clear tape doesn’t cover up the skin’s natural color and is more discreet and fabric-friendly than safety pins. http://www.hollywoodfashiontape.com/

Thou shalt be no tags showing-Hollywood Tag Tamers can be used to hide those itchy annoying sewn in tags on any article of clothing. Clear, adhesive-backed Hollywood Tag Tamers have a comfortable, cushiony texture that will never itch or irritate sensitive skin. http://www.hollywoodfashiontape.com/

Thou Shalt not have any underarm stains for no reason at all- If you are going to be out dancing the night away be sure to have Hollywood Behind the Seams. These pretty, self-adhesive, disposable apparel shields will keep you fresh, dry, and clean. http://www.hollywoodfashiontape.com/

Thou Shalt be No deodorant stains on your little black dress- Hollywood Squares is a specially fabricated pink foam square that removes that unsightly residue in an instant, and there's no need to use water. Just rub it briskly over the spot and watch the white spot disappear. http://www.hollywoodfashiontape.com/

Thou Shalt keep your Tide to Go pen in your purse at all times- Tide to Go is safe on your clothes and will effectively remove stains from your favorite designer duds.

Thou shalt not go out in clothing that require hemming- If the Hem falls out in your favorite dress while you are already out or perhaps away on vacation, a fashion fix must have is Stitch Witchery. You can fix the hem by ironing on the adhesive tape. Check your local fabric store like JoAnn’s for stock.
Thou Shalt understand that you can not enjoy even your favorite pair of shoes if they don’t fit well- Look for Foot Fitter Shoe Stretching Spray. http://www.amazon.com/FootFitter-Shoe-Stretcher-Spray/dp/B000POJHFA

Thou Shalt not allow bra straps to show (that’s just tacky)- Strap Tamers allows you to fasten straps to the shoulder seam of your dress or blouse. http://www.straptamers.com/

Thou Shalt clean up suede shoes before wearing them- SOF Sole eraser bar easily removes stains from suede shoes and it even works on purses. 1 800 446-7587 to find out where you can pick one up. www.sofsole.com

Thou Shalt not to church or work in satin bras that show your nipples under your blouse- I know we all love our satin bras but they do not provide enough coverage if a cold draft comes in and over takes you. So we all should agree to get a pair of Nipple Covers found at http://www.fashionessentials.com/ or http://www.lingeriesolutions.com/

How sweet it is to be loved by you.....

2009-12-16T09:37:00.000-08:00

I love all things sweet potato and I came across this recipe for sweet potato waffles. I am thinking that this would be great breakfast idea for Christmas morning! Serve them with a little sausage (pork, turkey or vegetarian) and voila!
Sweet Potato Waffles
Ingredients1 1/2 cups peeled and cubed sweet potatoes 2 cups all purpose flour 1 tablespoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 6 egg whites, at room temperature 1 cup milk 1/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar 1/4 cup butter, melted 1 tablespoon grated orange rind Vegetable spray, for waffle iron
MethodPut cubed sweet potatoes in a steamer basket. Place the basket in a large pot of simmering water that is no closer than 2 inches from the bottom of steamer. Allow potatoes to steam for 20 minutes of until fork tender. Mash cooked potatoes and set aside. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt and set aside. In another bowl combine the sweet potatoes, milk, brown sugar, butter, and grated orange rind. Stir the sweet potato mixture into the flour mixture and thoroughly combine. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually fold egg whites into batter 1/3 at a time. The batter will be thick.Place 2 scoops of batter onto a preheated, oiled waffle iron, and cook until lightly browned, about 5 to 6 minutes.

Can't think of anything to cook?

2009-12-15T07:24:00.000-08:00

How many of you ate Ramen Noodles in college? Now how many of you are willing to admit that you still eat Ramen Noodles from time to time. I actually love them and they are so cheap and easy to make. I have even found some great recipes that doctor up the Ramen Noodle and will have you thinking that you are eating from some great little take out spot!

Check these recipes out that I found; they are easy to make AND easy on the budget.

Lo Mein Ramen
1 package chicken ramen noodles

2 cups water

1 pound chicken breast strips

1/2 cup onions sliced

1/2 cup green peppers chopped

1/4 cup carrots, chopped

1 tablespoon oil

1 tablespoon soy sauce

In a skillet mix oil, soy sauce and 1/2 seasoning packet. Add chickenand brown. Cook noodles according to package directions and drain.Add veggies to chicken and cook until tender. Add noodles and cook on medium heat for five minutes, stirring constantly.

Taco Ramen
1 package beef or chicken ramen noodles

1/2 pound ground beef/or turkey

1 small tomato, chopped

1/2 cup onion chopped

1 cup cheddar cheese shredded

Cook noodles according to package directions and drain. Brown beefand drain. Stir in seasoning packet. Mix all ingredientstogether.

More Drama Please!

2009-12-11T09:43:00.001-08:00

I am one of those people that just can’t stand drama BUT I like desserts that bring the drama. Treats like Baked Alaska, Crème Brulee, Crepes Suzette, you name it!
I have always said, eating should be more than a meal, it should be an experience. Desserts with dramatic tableside presentation that are liquored up and ignited with fire just set my heart racing. My first experience with this was while vacationing in the Bahamas and I had Bananas Flambé for the first time.
So I am taking on the challenge. This weekend, I am buying a kitchen torch and I am going to make Bananas Foster or Crème Brulee. Wish me Luck!
Bananas Flambe
Ingredients:

4 firm ripe bananas, sliced in half lengthwise

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 cup dark brown sugar teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

3 tablespoons lemon juice, about 1 lemon

2 cup banana liqueur

2 cup dark rum or good quality brandy

Preparation:Melt butter in a heavy skillet; add the brown sugar and spices, stirring until the sugar is completely melted. Add the ripe bananas and cook until they are hot and well coated with syrup, but not mushy.Carefully pour in the banana liqueur and rum. If the butter is very hot, the bananas will flame on their own. Or, you can cook over medium heat, stirring, until the alcohol cooks out. Or, with a long match, carefully flame the liqueur and brandy in the pan and cook until the flame dies out and the alcohol is cooked out.Add the juice from the lemon and stir to blend.Serve the bananas and sauce warm over vanilla ice cream. Serves 4.

Ciao Bella

2009-12-10T04:43:00.000-08:00

Have you ever tried Ciao Bella Gelato? This stuff is sooo good! Actually Ciao Bella comes in Sorbet and Gelato. The have incredible flavors to choose from like Bourbon Butter Pecan, Key Lime Graham Cracker, West African Chocolate and the Sorbet boasts flavors like Blackberry Cabernet, Rose Petal Champagne, Grapefruit Campari, Bartlett Pear, and my favorite Sicilian Blood Orange!

A great way to serve this dessert is to get on board with the trend of serving your Sorbet/Gelato in cute little shot glasses. Its chic and fun, and your not overdoing it on portion size for all those that are watching their calorie intake.

Also, be on the look out for Eggnog Gelato around this time of year. Enjoy!

Granny's Italian Chicken

2009-12-09T07:44:00.000-08:00

My grandma is known for great cooking. She can turn a simple dish into something fabulous! But I have to say, its extremely difficult to get a recipe out of her. Not because she does'nt want to give it to you, she just does'nt follow one. Ask her how to make some thing and she will say "oh, just put a little of this in it, but not too much, and a little of that, then do this and do that" and I am like "Holy Mother of Jesus Granny can we just get it written down". Anyway, I am just teasing, I adore my granny. I think she is such a classy bombshell! And an amazing cook.

So anyway I am talking to her the other day and she is cooking for her own birthday party (that's just how she is) and she is talking about making Italian Chicken, so I'm interested. Of course she is not follwing a recipe, but based on her description, I came up with what I believe will be a great recipe for us to try.

Try is out and leave me a comment to tell me what you think.

Thanks Grams!

Granny’s Italian Chicken

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (halves)
3 large eggs, beaten
1 cup Parmesan cheese
1 cup fine dry Italian bread crumbs
1/4 cup Italian salad dressing

Preparation:
Wash chicken and pat dry. Dip chicken into eggs. Combine cheese and bread crumbs. Coat chicken thoroughly with crumb mixture. Drizzle with Italian salad dressing (I like Newmans).
Place on a baking sheet spayed with canola oil spray or Pam. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.
Serve with a Caesar Salad and Home Made Croutons

Hail Caesar!

2009-12-07T10:57:00.001-08:00

I have recently started making my own salad dressings and what I have found is that it's not so hard to do. Since my favorite salads to eat are Caesar and Greek, I started with them. This is a fabulous recipe for Caesar dressing and home made croutons. Once again, very easy and simple to do.
Caesar Dressing
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan (about 2 ounces)
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons canola oil
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 garlic cloves
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Combine all ingredients in blender or processor. Blend until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve with fresh chopped romaine lettuce and croutons.

Homemade Croutons
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups of stale bread cubes
Salt and pepper to taste
Melt the butter in a skillet with the olive oil. Add the cubes of bread and sauté, turning frequently with a spatula, until bread cubes are golden brown. Season with salt and pepper to taste and stir well. Remove from heat and spread croutons onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place in a 350 degree oven and cook for 10 minutes. Remove and cool completely before serving.

Lick the Beaters!

2009-12-07T06:44:00.000-08:00

You know what I miss? Licking the beaters from the mixer after my mom or grandma finished mixing cake batter or frosting. And even though I bake regularly, I always toss my beaters into the dishwater denying myself this very special treat and I dont know why! So after some serious thought (not really), I have come to the decision that I will no longer deprive myself of this tasty treat, not to mention the nostalgic feeling that will come with it, ever again. Life is for us to enjoy!

My first modeling job

2009-12-03T12:38:00.000-08:00

I began modeling when I was 13 and it came about as a result of my family thinking that I needed to become more graceful. I stood at 5 feet 8 and was very skinny so my mother enrolled me in modeling classes that would cover everything from how to walk to proper make-up application. I won’t ever forget my first paid modeling gig. I was 14 years old and it was for a back to school fashion show at the local mall. The client was J.C Penny and I had already been to the fitting and I was excited about the clothes that I would be modeling. This would be my first taste of professional modeling and I had prepared my self in every way possible for my first stroll down the catwalk. I arrived on time for hair and make-up and got dressed in my first outfit. As I stood around feeling all ‘Diana Ross in Mahogany’ with the other teen girls waiting for our segment of the show to get started I remember thinking that this is what I will do for life! The music was pumping, the lights were flashing, and cameras were snapping pictures everywhere, and there were people fussing over you to make sure you looked your best. It was so exciting and I remember thinking “I can’t believe I am getting paid for this”! It was from that moment that I knew I was hooked. And even though I am a long way from 13, I still love to hit the runway!

My thoughts about the holidays

2009-12-02T09:53:00.000-08:00

As usual when Christmas approaches, we become inundated with the pressure to spend money and lavish ourselves and each other with pricey gifts and electronics. The commercials and the over the top store displays are pushing us more towards stuff and away from the spirit of celebrating family and tradition.

My family and I are going to be celebrating Kwanzaa again this year and for those of you that don't know what Kwanzza is, its is a week-long celebration honoring African heritage and culture. It is observed from December 26 to January 1 each year and each day we light our Kinara and observe one of the seven principles. We also celebrate with a feast and gift giving and this year on my day to host, I will be preparing Turkey Jumbalaya.
I have a very easy recipe for you to follow and I encourage everyone to make sure that in keeping with the spirit of Imani (the 7th principle of Kwanzaa) that you continue to to believe with all your heart in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders and the righteousness and victory of our struggle. Let's all not get too caught up in the commercialism of Christmas and remember to connect with each other through faith and love.

And as always keep it fabulous!

Turkey Jambalaya
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped green pepper
1 cup chopped onion
1 lb. chorizo ( I use turkey sausage), cut into small chunks
1 tsp. coconut oil you can also use canola oil
2 cans (14-1/2 oz. each) stewed tomatoes, undrained
1-1/2 cups water
2 cups chopped cooked turkey
1 Tbsp. Cajun seasoning
3 cups instant brown rice, uncooked
Sautee celery, green pepper, onion and chorizo in coconut oil in large skillet on medium-high heat 5 minutes or until chorizo is cooked through. Add tomatoes with their liquid, the water, turkey and seasoning; mix well. Bring to boil.
STIR in rice. Reduce heat to low; cover. Simmer 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Let stand, covered, 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Blondie's High Heels!

2009-12-01T07:48:00.000-08:00

This recipe is from one of my really good friends Laurie who I affectionately call “Blondie” because of her very endearing naïveté. She likes to cook and bake just as much as I do but does not get the whole high heel motif just yet. She refers to Wedge heel shoes as “wedgies” and once she told me that she was unable to climb on a ladder at work because she had her high heels on. I took a look because this is a woman who believes in the power of comfortable, flat shoes and so naturally I was excited to see her in high heels for the first time! Me being the Blondie that I can be at times, looked down at her feet and mentioned that she had changed her shoes and that I wanted to see the heels. She replied with a very proud grin that she was wearing the heels. Let me just say this, if someone has to ask, your probably not wearing high heels. But to her loving defense, a one inch squared off heel is absolutely a fantastic start!
One day I think I may be able to convince her to cook or bake in 2 or 3 inch heels just for the fun of it, but until then I’ll keep enjoying your fresh baked goods made in whatever shoe you desire Blondie!

Blondies
½ cup brown sugar
1 stick butter (unsalted)
1 large egg
1 cup flour
1 tbsp baking powder
Pinch of salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup of nuts
½ cup sugar
Heat oven to 324 degrees
Line 9’ square pan with foil and extend 2” along sides
Cook sugars and butter in pan over medium heat and cool 5 min.
Whisk in egg and then remaining ingredients until blended
Bake for 35 minutes

Blondie’s Bowtie Lasagna
1 pound of ground chuck
1 jar pasta sauce (tomato)
1 box bowtie pasta
8 ounces cream cheese
2/3 cup fresh grated parmesan cheese
16 ounce sour cream
1 egg
1/3 cup dried parsley flakes
1 pound grated mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Prepare bowtie pasta according to directions on box
In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese, parmesan cheese, sour cream, egg, parsley, mozzarella cheese salt and pepper
Brown the ground chuck and drain and add pasta sauce
In a 9x 13 casserole dish layer meat sauce, pasta, cheese filling and repeat one time ending with the cheese filling
Bake at 350 degrees for about an hour (or until cheese is bubbling)

Forget about Breakfast in bed, How about Dinner on the Duvet (sorry mom cover your eyes and stop reading now if you need to)

2009-11-30T07:05:00.000-08:00

Creating a romantic dinner in bed for your special someone can add a wonderful intimacy between you and your loved one and unlike breakfast in bed, it can be the start of a wonderful…… uh nights sleep; Yeah that’s it, nights sleep.
Set the stage of your romantic dinner by making sure the two of you will be alone. If you have children, arrange for babysitting at someone else's home. And most importantly, plan your romantic dinner on an evening that you are sure your man won't have other commitments already scheduled.
You can either prepare a meal for your dinner or you can pick up take out. Make sure that your menu will consist of:
Appetizers- (suggestions) Salmon Spread on small baguettes
Main Course- (suggestions) Sushi
Dessert- (suggestions) chocolate covered strawberries with whipped cream and Sundae toppings
Preparation
Choose some comfortable yet sexy sleep attire, like lingerie or silk lounge pants and a camisole; Make sure your make-up is beautifully done; Have your guy’s sexiest lounge pants ready for him to slip into
Make sure you have all of your foods ahead of time so that no last minute trips to the store will keep him waiting.
Setting the mood is very important so prepare the bedroom for romance by cleaning your room, lighting candles (Dim lighting is important), putting on fresh satin sheets, pulling back the duvet, and having massage oil ready for some after dinner pampering
Make or pick up a CD of romantic music that you both will enjoy and have it playing softly in the background;
Make your body a buffet for your man (to make this work your menu should be cold or room temperature finger foods)
Appetizers: can be placed on your shoulders.
Main course: on your breasts
Dessert: on your belly (and below if you choose) Sundae toppings are fantastic
More ideas for dinner for two in Cooking in High Heels.

Chocolate covered strawberries
1 pint of strawberries washed and dried
16 ounces milk chocolate chips
2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
Insert toothpicks into the tops of the strawberries.
In a double boiler, melt the chocolate and sweetened condensed milk, stirring occasionally until smooth. Holding them by the toothpicks, dip the strawberries into the chocolate mixture. Place on a tray lined with wax paper to cool. You can get fancy and drizzle white chocolate over the strawberries of you like!

Sweet time of Year

2009-11-19T11:19:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone,
I have been away from you too long and I missed you all. I have been slaving away at the book Cooking in High Heels and getting the publishing in motion. Yay!
Well I am prepping for the Thanksgiving holidays and I am gearing up for some good food. Thanksgiving would not be Thanksgiving without sweet potato pie. I have to have it! And dont let me happen to run across some rum raisin ice cream to have with it. Well I will be making the traditional sweet potato again this year, but last year I stepped out and tried sweet potato cheese cake. Lordy Lordy, that was some good stuff and there is a very simple and easy way to make it! Now,you can go for best in show and puree your own sweet potatos or you can use canned sweet potatos in heavy syrup which to me, was just as good if not better/richer. I think what makes this cake so good is the graham cracker/pecan crust. This recipe will take a little bit of effort but it is so worth it.
I encourage you to try this recipe if not at Thanksgiving at least for Christmas. And remember to always try any new recipe at home with yourself and family first before you go taking it out (like to the office holiday party). By the way, stay tuned for my eggnog cupcakes, a great recipe for the holidays and really fun to do with kids!

Sweet Potato Cheesecake
Ingredients:
3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
4 large eggs
3 egg yolks
3 tablespoons flour
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon apple pie spice
1 cup whipping cream
1 1/2 cups sweet potatoes, mashed
.
Graham Cracker-Pecan Crust
2 cups finely crushed graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup melted butter
1/4 cup finely chopped pecans
Preparation:
Preheat oven to 425°.
Crust:Combine crust ingredients thoroughly; press into a 10-inch springform pan.
Beat cream cheese, sugar, and eggs until smooth; beat in flour, cinnamon, and apple pie spice.
Beat cream and well-mashed sweet potatoes in on medium speed of a hand held mixer just until well-combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared crust.
Bake at 425° for 15 minutes; lower heat to 275° and bake 1 hour longer. Turn heat off and leave in the oven to cool for several hours, or cool on a wire rack.

A story from mama

2009-11-11T13:26:00.001-08:00

We have a guest blogger today folks. None other than my mother. This woman can make a mean Red Velvet cake and Coconut Cake that would make you slap your.... well, no pun intended, slap you mama. Thanks mama for showing me everything I needed to know about baking. Smooches!

At three, Christina was as serious about baking as she was fashion. Baking was a way of life for me and not a week went by when something was not baking in the oven. Family and friends came to visit as if they were going to the bakery. Christmas was always special in our house; and with the holidays fast approaching, I had lots of baking to do, cakes, pies, cookies and more. Whenever I baked, it was always a twosome, Mama and Christina. We were a team; however, it was not always convenient. So with so much to do and Christmas so close, I have to get started. I had a plan. On Saturday morning, it was time to put my plan in action. I decided to wake up super early and bake a cake or maybe two while Christina was still asleep. Great! I am on target everything is ready. Since I’m a fast worker, a cake should be in the oven no less than 15 minutes. As the mixer starts to hum to cream the butter, I turned to reach for the sugar and guess who? Yes! At 6 am, there stands Christina with sleep in her eyes, smile on her face and ready to bake. How could I have thought I could bake a cake alone? After all, we are a twosome.
-Diane Orie

Safety First

2009-11-10T06:41:00.000-08:00

Okay, Ladies let me just say this. Can we all make a vow to stop putting our make-up on in the car. I used to be a culprit, but stopped years ago.
Today I am driving to work and I am almost side swiped by a young lady applying her eye shadow. Okay, now aside from safety first, there are other reasons that equally important as to why we should end those dreadful glam session on the ride in to work.
1. It goes back to the pampering and self care that women sometimes deny themselves. Carve out special time in the morning that is just for you, even if you have to get up a little earlier than normal. It will help to bring up your feminine energy and you are essentially confirming with spirit and soul that you are important and loved. Don’t just jump in the shower and run out the door with wet hair. Take the time to nurture and condition your skin by applying your lotions and body oil. Have a cup of tea while you’re doing this. Give your hair the time and attention that it needs. Take your time and apply your make up well. You deserve it.
I guarantee that by starting off your day with this important step, you will feel more cared for and beautiful during the day.
2. Most of the time we don’t get it right anyway! I can’t tell you how many times I have seen what I know to be rush job make-up on women. And why do it to ourselves? Why look half done when we can be fabulous? We are to be living our best life now aren’t we? So why not take the time to look our best? We deserve it!

Do what now?

2009-11-09T09:56:00.000-08:00

I was lucky to have a mom that regularly baked and it’s no wonder that she was the room mother practically every school year during my elementary years. When social events came up for school we prepared the treats. During those times, parents were allowed to bring baked goods into the classroom, so on Halloween, Christmas or the Spring Fling, we would bake cupcakes or brownies or some other fantastic treat.
During my six grade year, our class was having some sort of party and I had signed myself up to bring cupcakes. I had bragged to my friends how great they would be and how everyone loved my mama’s cupcakes and how she would probably do something fancy with the icing, and how she makes her own icing, and blah blah blah. Well feeing pretty sure that I had given my mother enough time to purchase ingredients; I came home to let my mother know that our class was having a party after field day and she was to make the cupcakes. Well you can imagine my surprise when she informed me “you know what your doing Tina, you can make them on your own, I’ll pick up what you need this weekend”. Say what now? Okay, I was not ready for this. Yes, we have baked cupcakes together plenty of times, but I assure you that I was not ready to step out on my own. All I kept thinking is, “other people will have to eat them”. This whole scene seemed hardly fair to me. I was surely willing to help with the decorating but to be responsible for how they would taste was a different story.
Knowing how six grade kids could be so cruel, I decided that I was not about to have myself be embarrassed if the cupcakes I made turned out to be garbage! I had a plan. When I went to my grandparent’s house that weekend, I would con my grandfather into going to Giant Open Air Supermarket and pick up some store bought cupcakes. (Well it would not really have been much of a con, because he was a softie when it came to the grandkids) Well somehow my plot had foiled and when I came home on Sunday from my weekend with my grandparents I realized that my mother was serious. I had plans to make on last ditch effort for her to make those damn cupcakes! Once again, my plan to get her involvement failed and she informed me that I could make the cupcakes or show up with nothing. Realizing that I had no choice and showing up with nothing after I had volunteered would not set well either with my six grade class.
So I rolled up my sleeves and took on the task.
Find my own special cupcake recipe in the book Cooking In High Heels, Coming Soon!

A Diffrent Kind Of Recipe

2009-11-03T11:08:00.000-08:00

Over the years I have always known the importance of skin care and I have certainly spent my fair share of money on salon facials, store bought creams, and products seen on late night infomercials. What I have come to realize is that the best thing that I could do to take care of my skin is to seek out natural, chemical-free products that will nourish my skin. Most of those products are right in my kitchen. Don’t get me wrong, I still think it is great to go to the spa to indulge yourself and enjoy the pampering experience, but if you want to approach your skin from a natural standpoint, then a homemade facial might be very helpful in maintaining that beautiful glow.These are a couple of my favorite homemade facial and body scrub recipes that are featured in Cooking in High Heels.
Banana Facial Smoothie
Ingredients
1 medium banana mashed with a fork
1 tbsp plain, natural yogurt at room temperature (not low-fat or non-fat)
1 tsp soft honey
Combine mixture, then apply to face. Let sit for 15 minutes. Wash face with warm washcloth.
Chocolate Body Scrub
Ingredients
3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
Almond Oil (about 3 tablespoons)
1 cup of brown sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla oil (extract will work)
Mix all the ingredients except for almond oil.
Gradually add in the almond oil until the mixture starts looking like a paste. You can store this in a plastic or glass jar or container in the refrigerator. When you are ready to use, stand under a warm shower long enough to get your skin wet; rub your body with the chocolate scrub, using your fingertips in a circular motion. Rinse well with lukewarm water and pat dry.

Sooooouuuul Train!

2009-11-02T08:58:00.001-08:00

One of my favorite Saturday afternoon memories growing up in the 80s was being at home watching Soul Train. My mom would bake or cook on Saturday evenings and I sat glued to the television mesmerized by the glamour, music and fashion. I would dance around the living room when they did the soul train line in my mama’s Mary Kay wig (that’s another story) and high heels and imitate the dance moves of the beautiful female dancers that were featured on the show; yes, even that Chinese woman with the long hair that never did make any sense to me!
I loved that fashions! The Gold Lame pants, strappy sandal high heel shoes and sequin halter tops. Above all, I remember the atmosphere, the smell of fried chicken in the air or a cake in the oven, Debarge singing on the stage, and all the energy that was in the house at the time.
So every now and then I will put on some old school music or turn the TV on to some grown and sexy videos and fry some chicken…. For Old times Sake.
Christina's Fried Chicken
1lb of chicken breast
3 Tablespoons of vegetable, canola or peanut oil
1 cup flour
2 eggs
1tsp sea salt
1tsp ground black pepper
1 tsp of garlic powder
1 tsp dried sage
¼ cup buttermilk

Allow chicken to soak in buttermilk for 4 hours; overnight if possible. This will make your chicken very tender.
Make flour mixture with flour, salt, sage, pepper and garlic powder and set aside.
Remove chicken breast from buttermilk, toss in flour mixture and add to heated oil (medium to low heat) cover, and simmer until chicken is tender and juices run clear, about 15 to 20 minutes. Chicken will be golden on both sides.
Before arranging chicken on a serving platter, allow excess oil to be soaked off of chicken by placing it on a plate lined with paper towels.

Bella Vita

2009-10-30T12:54:00.001-07:00

You did'nt think I would leave you for the weekend without a new recipe to try did you? There is nothing better than having friends and family over for dinner. Maybe you may be having game night or wanting to prepare a post trick or treater meal. As you all know, I am all about the "quick and easy", and nothing is more easy to prepare then the traditional Italian baked Ziti.
Baked ziti is such an easy and yet impressive meal to make. It won’t take much effort for you to put this meal together for your family and friends. Once again you will reign as a kitchen queen and others will be impressed with your cooking prowess. You know me, I like meals that are fast and easy to make; why? Because it leaves me with more (as you may know by now) prep time! I can be touching up my nail polish or setting my table.
Baked Ziti is comprised of three components, sauce, filling and cooked pasta. These ingredients are assembled after being prepared, then baked before serving. The final result is much like lasagna, but much soooo much easier and faster to prepare and just as good. This can also be made meatless for all of our DIVA vegetarians out there. Enjoy the weekend!

Baked Ziti
Ingredients
1 pound dry ziti pasta
1 onion, chopped
1 pound lean ground beef or turkey
2 (26 ounce) jars spaghetti sauce
6 ounces provolone cheese, sliced
1 1/2 ricotta cheese
16 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add ziti pasta, and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes; drain.
2. In a large skillet, brown onion and ground beef over medium heat. Add spaghetti sauce, and simmer 15 minutes.
3. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Butter a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer as follows: 1/2 of the ziti, mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, 1/2 sauce mixture, remaining ziti, mozzarella cheese and ricotta and remaining sauce mixture. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Bake for 30 minutes in the preheated oven, or until cheeses are melted.

It's All About the Smoke and Mirrors baby!

2009-10-27T11:12:00.000-07:00

Maybe you are realizing by now that cooking and fashion are all about smoke and mirrors. It’s sometimes about creating illusions and adding the little extras to make something really simple seem extraordinary. It really is not as hard as one would think to pull off an amazing cuisine. Cooking is no different from fashion really because it’s all about staging. The simplest of things can be amped up with little touches. Okay, go with me here, two women can have on the same black suit and have two totally different looks. The first woman could accessorize her suit with black pumps and a white shell blouse and a pair of pearl earrings and necklace. This of course is a nice look, but of course, you can fool someone into thinking that your little black suit is much more high fashion then what it really is. The second woman, (which would be me and all of you other fashion divas by the way) would add a pair of red or hot pink high heel shoes, a silver cuff bracelet and silver drop earrings, a black V neck body shaper instead of a shell blouse with a little bronzing powder dusted on your décolletage and some lip gloss in nude or pink and the outfit goes from a 5 to a 10.
So just know girls that little touches like a dollop of whip cream served atop your slice of pie (even if its store bought) or a pair of red high heel shoes with a simple black suit can go a long way. Serving your meals on your best dishes or china can make your cuisines so much more enjoyable. I mean think about it, would you want to drink Dom Perignon from a paper cup and eat filet mignon off of a paper plate? Good china will make even a Boston Market meal seem better!
Try this simple and easy to make Shrimp Scampi the next time you have someone over for dinner and serve it on your Tiffany & Co china!
Shrimp Scampi over linguine
20 shrimp or about 1lb (to save time I buy them already deveined)
1/4 cup olive oil
½ tsp sea salt,
black and red pepper -- to taste
3 large garlic cloves -- minced
1/3 cup parsley -- chopped
1/3 cup Italian bread crumbs
8 tablespoons melted butter
1/3 cup good white wine
Cook linguine according to the directions on the box and set aside.

Wash and dry shrimp thoroughly; Position shrimp in single layer in 10-inch square baking dish. Pour olive oil evenly over shrimp. Sprinkle to coat with salt, black and red pepper, garlic, parsley and bread crumbs. Bake in preheated 300F oven for 20 minutes. Once shrimp is cooked bring out of the oven and pour white wine and melted butter over the shrimp and return to oven for 5 more minutes.
Serve over cooked linguine and top with grated parmesan cheese if desired.

Indulge Thyself

2009-10-22T07:49:00.000-07:00

Some women like Tiffany’s and Harry Winston’s…. I like Whole Foods market and Bloomingdales! When I go shopping, I literally can’t decide whether to head off to the nearest shoe department, Sephora, or Williams-Sonoma. One thing you can be sure of, I will stop off at them all. Whether I’m popping in for a new lip color, blue suede booties, or a Calphalon One non stick Frittata pan, I have to indulge myself. This is one of my favorite recipes, I hope you enjoy! And dont forget to do something for yourself today.
Moroccan Meatballs over Cous Cous
You will need:
1 box of couscous: Prepare Cous Cous according to the package and set aside
1 red pepper: Sautee red peppers in olive oil and set aside
For Meatballs
2 tbs olive oil
Ground Beef (I use ground turkey breast)
½ cup of chicken broth
1 tsp Onion salt
1 tsp of cumin
1 tsp dried sage
2 cloves of garlic minced
½ tsp dried mustard
1 egg
½ cup bread crumbs
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1 tsp ground black pepper
½ of red onion diced
1 tsp of sea salt
1 tbs Worcestershire sauce
Mix ground meat with all of the ingredients except for the olive oil (you will use the olive oil to sauté) and form into small round balls. You can choose to make them large if you like. Warm a large skillet with olive oil and add meatballs. Cook on medium heat for 12-15 min turning once.
Put the cous cous and red peppers on a large serving platter and add the meatballs on top. This meal can be eaten Moroccan style with all guests using their fingers and eating from the platter or traditional American using plates and forks.

Easy Breezy Cover Girl Cookies

2009-10-19T08:44:00.000-07:00

One thing that I absolutely love to do is have girl’s night in. It’s almost as much fun as girl’s night out! It’s our chance to relax, catch up with one another and enjoy some really good food. My girls and I have made our girls night in, centered around a theme. This month, we made breakfast for dinner. The thing about our time together that I love the most is that we are all in the kitchen together cooking, chopping, laughing and talking and all of that feminine energy reminds me of why its so important to celebrate being a woman everyday . We as women should do something everyday, even if it’s a small thing, to fuel our feminine energy and celebrate the soft and unique qualities that makes us women. Many of us work everyday in career fields that force us to take charge and be strong; or in work settings where we have to be as tough as the men. All of that is fine because we are smart and capable, but we sometimes loose are feminine selves and forget that we should be cared for. The masculine role was not meant for us to take on permanently and at the end of the day, we have to remember to do something that make you feel like a woman and remind us that we are God’s princesses here on earth. So paint your nails a girly pink, or put a flower in your hair when you get home from work, spend thirty minutes on the phone laughing to one of your girlfriends, or just simply wear a skirt today instead of pants; whatever makes you feel like a woman.
On our next Girls night in, we are having Chinese food and watching the Joy Luck Club and I can’t wait! These cookies will serve as dessert!
Easy Breezy Cover Girl Cookies
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup butter, softened
2 to 3 drops of red food coloring to make the cookie dough pink
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 375 degrees .In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in egg, vanilla and food coloring. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients. You may have to add a couple more drops to of food coloring to the cookie dough and be sure to work it in well so that the color is evenly blended.
Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls, and place onto ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Let stand on cookie sheet two minutes before removing to cool on wire racks.

I promise you this recipe is easy to do. Once your cookies are cooled, you will drizzle chocolate ganache over the cookies while they are still on the rack. Just put some wax paper underneath to catch the drippings. These pink and brown cookies are really cute and would be great to take to your next girl’s night in.
Don’t get nervous, chocolate ganache is simply chocolate and heavy cream melted together.
Chocolate Ganache
½ cup heavy cream
1 cup of semi sweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Bring heavy cream to a light boil, then turn down to very low heat. Stir in chocolate chips and vanilla. Keep stirring until texture is smooth and creamy. Set aside to cool. Stir in a capful of corn syrup to make the mixture really shiny.

Are you ready for some football!

2009-10-16T07:17:00.000-07:00

I am a football fan. My sister and I started watching football as young girls with our grandfather. We knew plays and everything! He made it so much fun, by jumping around, yelling at the players, and diving onto the floor after a touch down. We giggled and laughed and celebrated team victories right along with him. I wont ever forget Superbowl 20 1986 when the Chicago Bears won against the Patriots! We danced around to the superbowl shuffle (forgot about that didn’t you) and cheered on the team. I also can’t forget the good food. There is just something about football snacks. The nachos, the wings, chips and dip, potato skins.
Well nothing has changed, I still enjoy Sunday afternoon football and this Sunday, the Falcons will be playing the Chicago Bears. Ladies, invite your guy friends over on Sunday (game starts at 8:20pm by the way) and whip up a quick menu; pull out those jeans that you look good in and your best fitting tee. Don’t forget to add a little ‘umph’, whatever that may be for you. It could be red lipstick, big hoop earrings, or a cute hair accessory.
And even if your really not all that into football, look at it like this: you get to watch very attractive men, in very tight pants, with athletic bodies run up and down the field……. Need I say more?
Teriyaki Wings
You will need a crock pot for this recipe- it will save you time. While your wings are slow cooking, you can be getting all dolled up.
16 chicken wings
Garlic (2 cloves minced)
2 teaspoons ground ginger
Scallions about ¼ cup chopped
Soy sauce (1 cup)
1/4 cup White vinegar
1/2 cup Chicken broth
3 tablespoons Honey
Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and add wings; stir to fully coat the wings. Add to Crock pot and cook on low for 6-7 hours. This is as easy as 123. While the wings are cooking, you can be doing something else. This is great for Sunday when you’re planning to watch football. Put them on in the morning and they will be ready by kick off.
Serve with Celery sticks and dressing of your choice. Put some chips and salsa on a serving platter and go!
Beverage Suggestion: Beer of course; for non drinkers’ ginger beer is fantastic!

This ones for the Girls.... The Little Girls!

2009-10-15T07:31:00.000-07:00

He was so cute and for sure I would say my first crush.
The last day of 5th grade was approaching, and the week before I had decided that I would reveal to my crush my affections for him. Me being the strategic planner that I am, I decided that the last day of school would be perfect timing because if he was not receptive, I would not have to worry about seeing him again. If he was, then I would ask my mother if I could join the boys and girls club for camp that summer (knowing that he had planned to attend)
I decided that the best way to let him know would be through a small letter from me and some Rice Krispy treats. I guess I have always thought that the way to a man’s heart was through his stomach….. Preferably something sweet. Well, the last day of 5th grade came and went and he was a no show to school. I was not too devastated as there is something to be said for timing. I later found out that he and his family had moved and he had not planned to be at school the last day anyway. How did I find out later you ask? I became his crush in high school; I found out by way of a Valentines Day Gram that he had sent to me with chocolate. Maybe the way to girl’s heart is chocolate because we went out for 2 ½ months. You know in high school two months is considered a lifetime!
Rice Krispy Treats
Ingredients
3 tablespoons butter or margarine
1 package (10 oz., about 40) regular marshmallows
- or -
4 cups miniature marshmallows
6 cups Rice Krispies
Directions
1. 1. In large saucepan melt butter over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted. Remove from heat.
2. 2. Add KELLOGG'S RICE KRISPIES cereal. Stir until well coated.
3. 3. Using buttered spatula or wax paper, evenly press mixture into 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan coated with cooking spray. Cool. Cut into 2-inch squares. Serve the same day!
For us older and more sophisticated ladies, we can drizzle some buttered rum sauce on the top of the already prepared treats.
Buttered Rum Sauce
· 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
· 3 tablespoons flour
· 1/4 teaspoon salt
· 1/2 cup water
· 2 tablespoons butter
· 2 teaspoons rum flavoring
In a heavy saucepan, combine brown sugar, flour, and salt; add water. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and thick. Add butter and flavoring. Cool and drizzle over the rice krispie treats.

The Little Black Dress

2009-10-14T10:59:00.000-07:00

Some people bring the ice…. some people bring packaged pies and cakes from the market….. and some people bring their home baked apple cobbler taken from their great-grandmother’s sister twice removed recipe that took 24 hours to make (because you had to soak the apples overnight in cinnamon and brown sugar) to the party. Me, well I can bring any of those things, I just bring it in my high heels! My own personal rule… Never show up at the party or dinner looking as though it practically killed you to bring your home baked/cooked meal. Make it look, well, effortless.
Listen ladies, if there is one thing that I know to be true, it is that it can seem like a daunting task to show up for a party or potluck dinner with some wonderfully prepared recipe that you make yourself and still look hot. And I don’t mean the kind of hot where you have sweated out your hair, your roots have snatched back and you’ve melted your make up slaving in the kitchen. There is an art to looking hot, sexy and fresh faced for the party and dazzling your friends with your seemingly hard dish that you have brought. The key is to just stick with what you know. Find a few great recipes that you will enjoy making, master them and keep them up your sleeve. Never, and I do mean NEVER try anything new when you want to impress.
Having a few good basic recipes is like having your basic “staples” in the closet. Every girl needs basic black pumps, a good pair of jeans (you know the kind that makes your butt look good), some bright colored sling back heels (I prefer red), a classic suit (good for interviewing, work etc) and of course the little black dress. That is why I call this recipe, the little Black Dress Cake. Just as you’re able to dress your black dress up or down with accessories, the same can be said for this cake. It’s a recipe that I am comfortable with and I know that will work every time.
It’s a basic chocolate cake that you can add chocolate, caramel or vanilla frosting to. AND you can dress this cake up anyway you want by topping the frosting with strawberries, crushed macadamias, toasted almonds, candy pieces, or a simple cherry in the center.
I liked to add to my little black dress cake what I call a pink boa. Simply frost the cake with vanilla icing as you normally would. Then, put your desired amount of coconut into a zip lock bag (I use about two cups), then add one or two drops of red food coloring into the bag of coconut. Start off with just one or two drops then add more if you want a darker pink. Zip up the bag and shake until it’s evenly colored and there you have it. Sprinkle your pink boa onto your cake.
Time saver tip: bake your cake the night before, it will give you more time with your hair and make-up. Make your frosting the day of so that it will be fresh. It makes a big difference.
Also, if you must use a box cake, go for it, BUT always make your own icing! It’s de rigueur.
The Little Black Dress Cake
1 ¼ cup of flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa
¼ teaspoon of salt
¾ cup of baking soda
2/3 cup of butter
1 ¼ cup of sugar
3 eggs
4 ounces of unsweetened chocolate melted and cooled
1 teaspoon of vanilla
1 ¼ cup of water
Grease and dust with cocoa powder two 9 inches round pans and set aside. Mix dry ingredients and set to the side. Beat butter for 30 seconds and then add eggs one at a time. Add sugar and vanilla until mixed well then add cooled chocolate to the mixture. Begin adding the dry mixture a cup at a time (so that the batter won’t splatter). Pour into pans and bake in 350 degree oven for 35-40 minutes.
When cakes are done allow to cool for 15 minutes before removing from the pan.