Simple Christmas Vanilla Bundt Cake

Also a year ago, a stranger told me this would be a challenging year for me. Now, I never paid it any mind, but as the year comes to a close, I always like to reflect on it. This year has been quite the challenging year, in all aspects of my life. For those who follow my blog, you'd notice I rarely discuss my personal life, that is because I like to keep it that way. And to keep things relevant to what you all care to read about. As I look at 2016(yes, I'm officially over the year too) I can't help but be grateful for surviving the year. It was challenging, yes, but I made it out strong. The things I have gained this year are much greater than those that I have lost.

Celebrate Football with Russo’s New York-Style Frozen Pizzas

Anthony Russo, Founder and CEO of Texas’ successful Russo’s New York Pizzeria, has a line of all-natural New York-style pizzas ready for you to heat up for the game this weekend. All of their pizzas are handcrafted and made with fresh ingredients on a thin, crispy crust. 

They have regular crust pizzas as well as a gluten-free pizzas. They've added Prosciutto and Fig, Spicy Chicken Fajita, and Italian-Style Meat Lovers to their regular crust line and are now available in stores. 

I tried the Italian style lovers and the Procuitto and figg. My favorite has got to be the Italian-Style Lovers pizza, which would make sense for a good day of watching football. 

Grab your favorite beer, or cider in my case, a couple boxes of Russo's Pizza at the store and you're ready for a quick and easy day of football. No major dishes or cooking involved! 

GO TEXANS!

MULBERRY PIZZA:Italian sausage, perfectly spiced pepperoni, Canadian bacon, crumbled hamburger, mozzarella cheese and full-flavored pizza sauce.

PROSCUITTO & FIG

Organic Arugula, Prosciutto, Fig Preserve, Sicilian Olive Oil and Mozzarella Cheese

SPICY CHICKEN FAJITA
Grilled Chicken, Roasted Corn and Peppers, Cilantro, Onion, Olive Oil Garlic Sauce, Chipotle Spices and Mozzarella Cheese.

2016 HOLIDAY FOODIE GIFT GUIDE

It is that time of the year again. It's December 1st, which means Christmas is right around the corner. Every year, around this time I put together a list featuring (mainly) local business and product gift recommendations for the holiday season. As 2016 comes to a close, you want to take the time to thank and celebrate the people who made your year truly remarkable. Whether it is by sending them a  nice card in the mail or doing something a little more nourishing like sending them food, show them how much you appreciate them.

Here is my list for this year; a majority are local so make sure you show them support. Cheers!

Halloween Tuna Salad Mummy with Wasa Flatbread

Halloween is literally right around the corner. Some had it all planned out since the beginning of the month, from the decor, costumes, to festivities, food and drinks. If that person is you, kudos to you! But for those of you who are just now trying to figure out a last minute contribution to that Halloween party, I've got the easiest( well kinda) appetizer you'll find.

I recently received my monthly Degustabox, if you haven't heard it is a monthly surprise food product delivery box that recently launch in the U.S this summer. The boxes come with some interesting products which you'd never think to try on your visit to your favorite grocery store, so it basically introduces me to great products I normally pay no mind to while shopping. A lot of products that are Non GMO verified, Kosher, Gluten-Free, etc. (You can use my promo code: NEIAC to get 50% off your Degustabox.) 

Well anyway, one of the items in the box were these Wasa Sesame & Sea Salt Thins, which are basically like crackers but a little tougher. They're oven baked, and once crunched into instantly give you a sesame seed taste with a bit of sea salt. The brand offers 7 grams of whole-grains and 80 calories per serving making them an easy, healthy snack option. We'll I thought the sesame seed taste was a little much for my liking, so having the tuna actually brought a balance to these crackers.

But, since we're not talking about loosing weight here for Halloween; on top of my tuna mummy, I sprinkled shredded Parmesan cheese to give this mummy "bandage" look. Then I completed the look by adding 2 drops of hot sauce in for the eyes. Once you're done, you can serve with the Wasa Thins! Happy Halloween.

Sam Mills Chicken & Green Bean Pesto Pasta

It's always exciting receiving an e-mail notification that my Degustabox has been delivered. I always pick it up and tear the box apart ready and excited to see what's in there. I had been tracking this box for what felt like forever, mainly because of the holiday that pushed the time of delivery. So this month featured a lot of European brands like Michel et Augustin cookies(such delicious cookies), Sam Mills Pasta(gluten free) and The English Provender.

The box is usually nicely packaged, with anything breakable wrapped in bubble wrap to prevent it from breaking on the way to you. So far what I have noticed is that they introduce you to a lot of natural, Non-GMO product verified, as well as gluten free products.

After seeing the Sam Mills gluten free corn and quinoa pasta, I immediately thought of something I wanted to make. I purchased some fresh basil and Parmesan cheese from the store and came home to make chicken pesto pasta. I'm always encouraging y'all to get your box, so we can cook together. So, Make sure you use my promo code: NEIAC to get 50% off your Degustabox. Want to make this delicious recipe below, click here to order now.

Ingredients:
Sam Mills Corn & Quinoa Pasta (note: I mixed in regular pasta)
Chicken Breast, cut in small portions & season with lemon salt/pepper 
Nando USA Peri Peri Sauce (optional)
1 tomato, chopped and drained
Green beans

Pesto:
1/2 cups fresh basil
1 garlic glove
Peanuts (most other recipes use pine or walnuts)
1/3 cup Olive oil
Parmesan cheese
Salt & Pepper

Directions:
1. Add all pesto ingredients into a food processor, saving oil and salt & pepper for later. Once it is nicely chopped, add salt, pepper and oil. 
2. Set pesto in the fridge
3. Add seasoned chicken into lightly greased dutch oven and cook until chicken is tender
4. Add green beans and tomatoes, and let cook
4. If you'd like, add half & half or mix together flour with milk until smooth 
5. Pour in and mix with chicken
6. Cook pasta, drain and add to dutch oven
7. Add pesto, Parmesan cheese, and mix well
8. Serve!

White Lily & Sir Kensington Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Chipotle Mayo

I got my Degustabox for the month you guys!!! I was so excited when I got a notification that my package had arrived that I ran to the leasing office ready to see what this month had in store. This month came with different products as always, ranging from snacks to flours and condiments. I'll be honest with you, I'm always excited to see what they decided to add to each box everytime. It always feels like Christmas or like its my birthday when I get my box in the mail. It's always full of products that you never think of buying yourself, because you've likely never tried them before(Ignore the Honey Bunches of Oats & Maria cookies).

When I opened the box(with my leasing office friends. lol), 2 items stood out immediately.The first one was the Non-GMO verified White Lily White Grape and Wheat Flour and Sir Kensington's Chipotle Mayonaise. Right then, I knew exactly what I wanted to try making this month. Another item that I'm loving is Loacker Rose of the Dolomite's crunchy hazelnut chocolates - they remind me of one of my favorite Belgian chocolates. I also loved ALO Allure's refreshing Aloe and mango drink.

4 Not so Food Related Uses of Coconut Oil

I was recently introduced to coconut oil...Correction. I recently tried coconut oil for the first time. If you follow me on Instagram(go follow), you probably saw a post last month of me saying that I was trying coconut oil for the whole month of November.  The cool people over at La Tourangelle sent me a 14oz tub of their organic extra virgin coconut oil, which is produced directly from freshly picked coconuts(instead of the dried coconuts in most oils).
When these fresh coconuts are pressed, they produce both coconut milk and oil. The oil and milk are then separated, leaving an oil that still maintained the antioxidants of the coconuts.

La Tourangelle is a french company that produces artisan oils. They started in France, producing some of the oils that are used in restaurants in the Loire Valley of France. Just a couple of years ago, La Tourangelle decided to make their oils available in America; Fast forward to today they have produced a wide array of artisan oils such as the Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, which can be found in an HEB store near you.

I know I always talk about food, but just like this previous post from months ago( that you guys liked BTW), I decided to do something that's not so food related. Here are my 4 favorite uses for coconut oil.

Hair Moisturizer: This is probably my favorite. So for the past month, I've been using this coconut oil is my hair. Grabbing a couple of spoons worth and melting it using a cup and some warm-hot water.  The oil has done wonders; keeping my scalp and hair moisturized and also reducing dandruff. I usually either mix it in with my shampoo or apply it and use my hair conditioner to make sure I am able to get it out of my hair. Then as my hair dries, I apply some more to my hair as desired before styling.

Moisturizing Body Scrub: Another great use for coconut oil is on your skin. I made a sugar and coconut oil shower scrub, which I use during showers and have no need of applying lotion afterwards. It has been especially helpful during the winter in keeping my skin moisturized and smooth.

Lotion: If you tend to have dry skin or if you're sick of your regular lotion not working I suggest using coconut oil as a lotion. It is very moisturizing and a 14oz tub can last you months since you need to melt it before using. Lather a small amount unto your skin after the shower to leave your skin feeling silky smooth.

Make-Up Remover: Another awesome and cheap use is in removing mascara or make-up in general, oil removes make-up easily without you applying any chemicals to your skin. Plus your skin will be very moisturized after you wash your face.

Brio Looks to Change your view of Ice Cream

I don't know about you but ice cream is one of my must have desserts, in the summer and even when it's cold out ( as long as I'm not sick, I'm game!) I sometimes find myself feeling guilty for eating it more than I should. Do you sometimes wish ice cream could be good for you?

Well, lucky for you and I someone's found a solution. Yes, someone felt that sorry for us that they made an ice cream that's healthy...wait, come again? Brio is a new recently launched premium frozen dairy dessert that is also nutritious. The idea was birthed by two siblings, who sought to make their mother's wish come true. Her wish was the same as you and I's, "why can't my favorite foods also be healthy?" The duo, along with a group of food developers, registered dietitians and nutritionists, created Brio in honor of their mother's wish.

Brio has just about 160 to 170 calories per 4 ounce serving, and is an excellent source of 24 essential vitamins and minerals. Each serving has 6 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber and Omega 3s; it has low glycemic, is certified non-GMO and Gluten free. Brio has no artificial flavors or sweeteners, but instead uses all-natural and organic flavors and sweeteners.

Brio sent me samples of their 5 flavors to try and share with you ( one's not pictured, I ate it!) The frozen desserts come in; Vanilla/Caramel, Spring Strawberry, Tropical Mango, Mellow Dark Chocolate and Coffee Latte. My favorites thus far are the Coffee Latte and Strawberry. The sizes came in a 4 ounce serving cup, which is quite enough of a serving. I plan to use some in a smoothie, I think that will make a delicious and nutritious addition. The desserts are now available in Houston at your local Central Market. If you pick some up, be sure to come back and let me know what you thought.

2015 Holiday Foodie Gift Guide

                                 

It's the holiday season!! I wanted to start the month of december with a holiday gift guide. This is my first time making one, so i've included some of my favorites. Some are recommendations from brands and friends. Here is my roundup of some great(mostly local) gifts that you can share with your loved ones this holiday season. It's the season of giving and appreciation and why not treat your loved ones to something special. Quick and simple tasty gifts for your fellow foodies. Hope you enjoy, stay hungry!

Sylvia's Enchilada's Cooking Class
Reserve spots for Sylvia's cooking classes, better hurry 'cause they fill up fast. Learn how to whip up some of your favorite Tex-Mex dishes by booking an afternoon in Sylvia's kitchen. The class includes a meal with dessert and a beverage of your choice. I had a fun time learning from Sylvia and hearing her tell stories, oh off course the food was delicious!

Pisco Porton
Gift a bottle of Pisco, the finest handcrafted premium white spirit from Peru. Pisco is made from mus ( juice of freshly pressed grapes) that has not completely fermented. This versatile spirit will add to your holiday cocktails. Pisco is strong, but is a great addition to any of your cocktails, you can order it for delivery from Minibar(dot com).

Aces At Home
Give the gift of a personalized dinner. Aces at home brings the pop up dinner to you. You'll have the opportunity to choose a four course dinner from a menu that will be prepared by a private chef. You'll agree on a date, price and number of guests. Once that's done, you can sit back and relax, all the prep work will be done by the Aces team. 

Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge Gift Pack 

Looking for a great gift for that spirit enthusiast? This Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge Gift Pack features a full size bottle of Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge, the original blend of Cognac and orange. The flagship of the House comes with a 50ml bottle of deliciously fresh Grand Marnier Raspberry Peach, which is a blend of European raspberries and rare red peaches from the South of France, combined with the world renowned Grand Marnier. Recipes are provided to create succulent Holiday cocktails.  

iPic Movie Ticket/Tuck Room

How about treating that movie lover to a movie night at Houston's newest "it" spot? iPic Theater offers a variety of gift cards for up to $500, you can stuff your stockings with a couple of these.

Creative Ice Cream Class @ Tipsy Dessert Bar
A good cocktail and NON-DAIRY ice cream in one? Now that's bomb. You can book an experience catered specifically to you, right at Tipsy Dessert Bar in Houston.They are offering a 10% deal on their website, better run!






Grand Lux Cafe Giftcard
For every $25 giftcard purchased, Grand Lux will add a complimentary $5 giftcard. You give and shall receive, right? Grand Lux Cafe offers an extensive internationally-inspired menu combined with american hospitality in an elegant setting.

PIADA Italian Street Food Gift card 

For every $25 gift card purchased this holiday season, PIADA will give you a FREE Piada, Pasta or Chopped Salad on your next visit and donate a cup of soup to the Houston Food Back.

4 Ways To Use Tajin Chile

If you went to Middle school with me, you remember how we used to obsess over Lucas candies. You know the spicy mexican candy with flavors ranging from watermelon-mango, covered in chile? Well, if you think we're too old to be snacking on those, then rejoice because I've got something just as good.

 

The brand recently sent me this spice in the mail, and I wanted to share with you guys. Meet Tajin, one of the most popular chili powders in Mexico. Tajin is used to enhance or add a little "cha-cha" to fruits, vegetables, and drinks. It 's based on a Mexican old age tradition of seasoning fruits and vegetables with mild chili peppers, lime and salt. I went ahead and tried it on a few different foods, and below are my findings.


The spice can be found at your nearest grocery store, most likely in the foreign foods section. Stores ranging from Fiesta and Aldi, to Walmart and HEB.

1. Avocado
Avocado was hands down my favorite, because I already use salt or lemon on my avocados. Tajin on the avocado was the best combination of salty & limy( if that even a word). Try eaten the straight or even chopping them on slices of toast and sprinkling with Tajin. Either way, so delicious and highly recommend.

2. Pinneapple
Pinneapple was decent, but I would only recommend perhaps if your pineapple isn't already deliciously juicy. Because the sugary juices from the fruit paired with Tajin can be intense, and also take to much away from the taste of the fruit itself.

3. Mango
I love mango, so adding Tajin to it was my least favorite. The fruit tasted overpowered and defeated. Next time I will try to make a mangonada

4. Garnish
I used it to add a little excitement and flavor to my margarita glass. And yes, I ended up licking the glass

All Natural Coconut Water Margarita Recipe, Neli and Beidi Giveaway

Coconut water has recently gained recognition in the food and health industry because of its benefits to the body. With praises from celebrities and athletes, this natural drink has gained momentum and began claiming spots on the shelves in your neighborhood grocery stores. One local company, looks to offer healthier natural ways to hydrate your body using coconut water. Neli & Beidi, a Texas based company, travels southeast Asia sourcing the best and youngest coconuts for water.

I had the opportunity to taste all of Neli & Beidi Coconut flavors( 4 flavors available) and was inspired to make a little happy hour drink.

Serving: 1 Glass

Ingredients:
1 Bottle Neli & Beidi Coconut Water
Tequila
Lemon( or lime)
Ice

Directions:
1. Combine all ingredients into blender, and blend.
2. Dip the top rim of you serving glass in water and dip in sugar, salt or Tajin chili
3. Pour blended ingredients into glass
4. Et Voila! Enjoy. 


If you've read this far, congratulations! You can now find out how to enter this giveaway. Neli & Beidi was gracious enough to provide an extra case of their Strawberry Coconut drink which I will give away to 1 lucky reader. Here are the instructions to enter:

Enter on Facebook page here. Open to Houston, TX residents only.

If you don't want to enter, you can find all 4 of their flavors: Banana, Watermelon, Strawberry, Coconut at your local H-E-B store.