FabFavFinds for May

Posted on May 1, 2013 by Aprons & Stilettos

Foodie Pen Pals

Try something new this month! For everyone who loves trying new stuff this is such a great club to be a part of! Crystal found a fun concept which pairs you up with someone in a different state and every month you send your foodie pal a box of treats ($15 value) from your city – in return you also receive a surprise package. Get familiar with foods and snacks you have never heard of or might have never tried if it wasn’t for this. This service is free and easy. All details can be found on The Lean Green Bean blog.

(Crystals package to her penpal)

Oliva Serie V

A few weeks ago we had a chance to sit down with the VP of Marketing & Sales at JMG International and get some insight and try some great cigars. Not being the most avid cigar smoker my fav had to be the Oliva Serie V. Rated 94 Points by Cigar Aficionado – This attractive, oily cigar is full of dynamic nut, wood and sweet cedar flavors that frame a substantial leather core. The finish is long and rich. Toasty and complex. So pour yourself a nice glass of wine and enjoy a taste of Oliva Serie V

For all our cigar aficionados follow @SarahJMG for the latest cigar news and updates

Great Find For You or a Gift

I have found something that everyone needs. A little bag from Pinch Provisions that will fit in your glove compartment or maybe even your purse. A reusable bag filled with over a dozen essentials that I promise you will use.With variations for him, her, moms to be and almost every occasion. This kit will be your new go-to for either yourself or give the gift that everyone will love!

The Shopaholic In Me

Every time I go back to visit LA I always swing by one of my my favorite stores from when I lived there. TIMELESS BOUTIQUE! Now I can shop without getting on a plane. I have found some of my favorite pieces in this store. The quality is great and there are a variety of designers you can’t find anywhere else. Price-point is very reasonable and they offer shipping specials.

Fav New Color for May

OPI Atomic Orange…Never been a fan of orange but this color is perfect with tan skin out and about enjoying the sunshine

I hope you’ll enjoy these fab finds and if you try any of them out, please let me know what you think! ~Rochelle

Pearl Couscous With Dry Fruits, Nuts and a Citrus Vinaigrette

Posted on April 29, 2013 by Aprons & Stilettos

As you know from my previous post, I LOVE couscous. What is couscous exactly? It’s a coarsely ground pasta made from semolina, a type of wheat. Why do I love it? It’s versatile, healthy (loaded with protein, selenium and potassium) and it’s quick to prepare.

Today’s recipe is a beautiful fusion of Israeli couscous (pearl couscous), dried fruits, fresh herbs, local cheese and nuts inspired by friend and Executive Chef, Robin Lehnhoff-McCray.

This easy lunch or light dinner option pairs perfectly with a nice crisp Sauvignon Blanc and a warm afternoon on the patio. Enjoy and cheers to the warmer days ahead!

4 cups cooked Pearl Couscous
¼ cup dry apricots, chopped
¼ cup golden raisins
¼ cup dry cranberries
½ bunch fresh mint, chopped
½ bunch Italian parsley, chopped
½ tablespoon garlic, chopped
1 cup Valley Ford Estero Gold cheese, grated
¼ cup toasted almonds
¼ cup toasted walnuts, chopped
¾ cup citrus vinaigrette (recipe below)
salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. Chill for 1 hour then serve.

Serves 5

Citrus Vinaigrette

1 tablespoon Meyer lemon zest
1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
½ cup Meyer lemon juice
¼ cup orange juice
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 ½ cups extra virgin olive oil
salt and pepper to taste

Combine zest, mustard, juices, sugar and parsley. Slowly whisk in olive oil. Season to taste with salt and pepper. (This recipe makes 1 ½ cups of vinaigrette. Save the remaining dressing and toss with fresh greens the next day!)

*Enjoy – Crystal

Carrots Two Ways | Orange-Ginger & Brandy-Glazed

Posted on March 27, 2013 by Aprons & Stilettos

Bright, colorful and delicious – this is an easy-to-make side dish that’s bursting with zest and spice.

Orange-Ginger Carrot Circles

6 medium-large carrots, peeled, washed and sliced into circles
1 medium orange, juiced
1 tablespoon orange zest, about 1/2 orange
1 tablespoon honey
2 teaspoons butter
3 teaspoons ginger
Salt & pepper, to taste
1 cup water
Garnish: orange zest and ginger

Combine all ingredients plus 1 cup of water in a medium saucepan over medium heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, simmer and stir occasionally for about 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Garnish with fresh orange zest and freshly grated ginger.

Spruce up a side of carrots with this delicious and easy to make brandy-glazed recipe. Slightly sweet and full of flavor! Don’t have brandy in your bar? Substitute with any brown spirit to add depth and richness to the dish.

Brandy-Glazed Baby Carrots

1 pound baby carrots, peeled and washed
1/4 cup Korbel Brandy
1/3 cup butter
1/2 – 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 teaspoon salt
Ground pepper, to taste
Garnish: chives (if you have ’em)

Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a cast iron skillet or large saucepan over high heat. Add the carrots. If the pan is too small for all of the carrots, add them in two batches. Cook for a minute to 90 seconds, just until the carrots are slightly brown. Remove from pan and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining butter and brandy. Be careful and stand back, just in case. Once butter is melted, add the brown sugar and stir in the carrots. Cover and simmer for about 5 minutes. Add salt and pepper, cover and cook until carrots are done and glaze is thick – another 5 minutes or so.

Remove carrots from pan and serve immediately. Garnish with chopped chives.