Beautiful Beds and Bedrooms…Design Inspiration

July 29, 2013

Sara Silver . Home Design, Inspiration . Bedroom, Colors and Patterns

John Robshaw Textiles

I love decorating and redecorating my bedroom. I’ve done several posts on bedroom color combinations and design and bedding…I just can’t get enough! For me, the bedroom is really the only place in the house that’s completely mine (well, and maybe my husband’s? :-)) It’s my reading nook, a place to relax and think…the perfect set up for a late night bowl of cereal and a few hours of HGTV. Every time I come across an inspiring bedroom picture I pin it and I’d love to share a few of my favorites with you. Follow the link to the Board ‘Beautiful Beds and Bedrooms’ for some more bedroom inspiration!

Lauren Elizabeth

This bedroom is proof that you don’t need a large space to create a sitting area. Instead of several small pieces there are a few large ones that fill the space perfectly and separate sleeping from lounging.

Urban Outfitters

Boho Bedroom …love it, tried it…cannot pull it off. Those who can throw 15 colors and patterns together and still come out with a cohesive look should be given a medal.

Architecture Art Design

What makes this room stunning is all the attention to detail. A mix of modern and classic design with pops of bright colors and soft neutrals give the room a chic contemporary feel.

The Rooster and the Hen

Simple and elegant. I’m known for picking up mixed matched pieces and I really enjoy the eclectic look that creates. This room, however, is symmetry at it’s best…the simple layout and pale neutrals really encourage rest.

Home Designing

My husband saw this picture and told me he was moving in with that guy. I can’t blame him. Pretty awesome.

Houzz

Orange and grayed jade might be my favorite color combination. The french doors and bright natural light make this room really special…lovely.

Ozvip

I have a 9 year old son and I’m pretty sure he would never leave this bedroom. As much as we as adults need a clean and organized place to end our day, our children really need the same thing. I love the idea of picking a theme, in this case vintage airplanes, and building a room around it.

Indulgy

…and for my 4 year old little girl. The painted barn board is precious and whimsical and the colors and perfect.

10 Must Have Side Dish Recipes…Savory and Delicious!

July 25, 2013

Sara Silver . Food . Easy Meals, Side Dishes

Eat, Drink Paleo

Sometimes I get distracted by side dishes. It’s easy to upstage even a beautifully cooked piece of meat when it’s next to a rich, creamy pasta or a dish of savory sautéed mushrooms. I love storing up these kinds of recipes to avoid the boxed side dish rut – fresh ingredients taste so much better and they’re so much more fun to work with! Here are 10 Must Have Side Dish Recipes…

#1. Red Wine and Garlic Mushrooms

Drag Through the Garden

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup red wine
16 oz. mushrooms
2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped parsley

visit Drag Through the Garden for Instructions!

#2. Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus

Eat, Drink Paleo

Ingredients

12 asparagus spears
6 prosciutto slices/strips
A little ghee for frying

visit Eat, Drink Paleo for Instructions!

#3. Loaded Mashed Potato Cakes

Just Putzing Around the Kitchen

Ingredients:
– Instant mashed potatoes (made from 1 full packet — follow directions on the box)
** You can use homemade mashed potatoes too.
– 2/3 cup Colby Jack cheese, grated
– 1-1/2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
– 1 large egg
– 2 tbsp chives, chopped

visit Just Putzing for Instructions!

#4. Eggplant Tomato Pie

Key Ingredients

Ingredients

1	eggplant
2	tomatoes
1	onion
2	cloves garlic
1	c. breadcrumbs
1	egg
3	Tbsp butter
1	Tbsp pesto
	shredded cheddar cheese
	fresh parsley

visit Key Ingredients for Instruction!

#5. Kerrygold Mac and Cheese

Bon Appetit Hon

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni
1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
3/4 cup milk or half and half
1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
2 teaspoons cornstarch
8 ounces cheddar cheese, grated
kosher salt
cayenne pepper or chili powder (optional)

visit Bon Appetit Hon for Instructions!

#6. Bacon Collard Greens

Taste of Home

Ingredients

2 pounds collard greens
4 thick-sliced bacon strips, chopped
1 cup chopped sweet onion
5 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (not packed in oil), chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

visit Taste of Home for Instructions!

#7. Chipotle Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes

Easy-Cookbook-Recipes

Ingredients

4 sweet potatoes (pick ones that are a good shape for twice baked potatoes)
1 lime, juiced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chipotle chili powder (or regular if you can’t find chipotle)
1 whole chipotle, minced
2 cups spinach
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

#8. Broccoli Casserole

Babble

Ingredients

1/2 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
2 cups milk
2 heads fresh broccoli, chopped
1/2 cup onion, diced
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup milk
2 cups cheddar cheese
2 eggs
2 cups crushed crackers or panko

visit Babble for Instructions!

#9. Black Bean and Kale Enchiladas

Vegan Yumminess

Ingredients

1/2 medium onion (minced)
1/4 green bell pepper (about 1/3 cup, chopped)
1 can tomato sauce (about 16 ounces total, unseasoned)
1/2 can tomatoes and green chiles (about 5 ounces total)
1 tablespoon pure cane sugar (or sweetener of your choice)
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 clove garlic (minced)
salt to taste

visit Vegan Yumminess for Instructions!

#10. Sage, Onion and Smoked Bacon Stuffing

HGTV

Ingredients:

1 onion, finely chopped
3 strips organic or free-range smoked bacon, chopped
9 ounces cooked sausage meat (optional)
1 tbsp. olive oil
2 tbsp. butter
1 cup fresh white breadcrumbs
1 heaped tbsp. chopped fresh sage
salt and pepper
1 medium egg, lightly beaten
a little fresh parsley, chopped

visit HGTV for instructions!

4 Recipes for One-Pot-Pasta…Easy Weeknight Meals

July 21, 2013

Sara Silver . Food . Easy Meals, One-Pot Pasta

The Londoner

So, One-Pot-Pasta is a new phenomenon; it’s everywhere! And that makes sense because it’s the epitome of an easy weeknight meal. Some pasta, some herbs, a few tomatoes maybe some shrimp or chicken, 30 minutes and ba-bow (as my husband would say). Here are 4 One-Pot-Pasta meals to add into your weekly rotation.

#1. Tomato, Roasted Pepper and Arugula Pasta

Recipe Sweet

Ingredients

8 ounces, weight Pasta
2 teaspoons Olive Oil, Divided
1 whole Shallot, Minced
1 clove Garlic, Minced
1 cup Grape Tomatoes, Halved
½ cups Roasted Red Peppers, Chopped
¼ cups Fresh Basil, Chopped, Divided
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
½ teaspoons Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
½ teaspoons Salt
¼ teaspoons Black Pepper
2 cups Fresh Arugula
2 ounces, weight Fresh Mozzarella Cheese, Diced
¼ cups Parmesan Cheese

visit Recipe Sweet for Instructions

#2. Penne with Shrimp, Feta and Spring Vegetables

Martha Stewart

Ingredients

Coarse salt and ground pepper
12 ounces penne rigate (ridged)
1 pound asparagus, trimmed, cut into 1-inch lengths
1 pound peeled and deveined frozen shrimp, thawed
8 ounces snow peas, trimmed and halved on the diagonal
3 tablespoons olive oil (preferably extra-virgin)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup crumbled feta (4 ounces)
1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh mint leaves

visit Martha Stewart for Instructions

#3. Life-Changing One-Pot Pasta

Family Bites

Ingredients

1 – 12-14oz. package of spaghetti or linguine
2 cups diced boneless, skinless chicken breast
1 ½ cups fresh or frozen peas
2 cups sliced mushrooms
5-6 cups chicken stock or water
2-3 tablespoons olive oil
Zest of 1 lemon
2-3 sprigs fresh thyme
Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper
1/2 cup heavy cream
Grated Parmesan cheese

Visit Family Bites for Instructions

#4. One-Pot Pasta

Martha Stewart

Ingredients

12 ounces linguine
12 ounces cherry or grape tomatoes, halved or quartered if large
1 onion, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon red-pepper flakes
2 sprigs basil, plus torn leaves for garnish
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
4 1/2 cups water
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

visit Martha Stewart for Instructions

30 Minute Chicken Marsala…Easy and Elegant Meal

July 15, 2013

Sara Silver . Food . Chicken, Easy Meals

Savory Sweet Life

When I first got married I remember being panicked about what to make for dinner every night. Often times I would fall back on what my mother used to make for me…chicken and rice, spaghetti, nachos maybe (one of my favorites). But as I got more comfortable in the kitchen I began branching out and trying new recipes… and soon I found that with a little direction making something quick and delicious didn’t have to be all that hard. That’s what I was reminded of when I came across this recipe by Savory Sweet Life; Chicken Marsala in 30 minutes…sign me up!

Savory Sweet Life

{Easy Anytime Dinner} Chicken Marsala Recipe

Author: Savory Sweet Life

Recipe type: Chicken

Prep time: 15 mins

Cook time: 30 mins

Total time: 45 mins

Serves: 4

An easy but elegant chicken dish!

Ingredients

2 skinless, boneless, chicken breasts
salt and freshly ground black pepper
½ cup all purpose flour or corn starch for gluten-free
up to ½ cup olive or vegetable oil
8 ounces container of mushroom, sliced and cleaned
2 tablespoons butter
½ cup sweet Marsala wine
¼ cup chicken stock
¼ cup sherry or dry white wine
Optional: 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Garnish with chopped parsley or oregano

visit Savory Sweet Life for Instructions!

10 Recipes Featuring Avocado…Super Food Meals

July 14, 2013

Sara Silver . Food . Avocado, Easy Meals

No Recipes

Avocado is a super food – we hear that all the time but, why? What makes this food so…super? Well, to start with it’s high in fiber, monounsaturated fats, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin E and acids that help us metabolize proteins, carbohydrates and fats. It also helps lower your cholesterol, it lowers your risk of diabetes and might aid in the fight against cancer. Awesome…why am I not eating these things more often? Here are 10 recipes to help us incorporate avocado into more of our weekly meals.

#1. Shrimp and Avocado Pasta

Ingredients:

8 Ounces of Dried spaghetti

1/3 Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil

.35 Ounces Flat Leaf Parsley

.35 Ounces Cilantro

.15 Ounces Chevril

1 Clove of Garlic

1 Ounce grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 lbs. Shrimp

3/4 cup Crab Meat

1 Ripe Avocado

1 Lemon

visit No Recipe for Instructions!

#2. Roasted Avocado Over Mixed Lettuce and Couscous

The Stone Soup

Ingredients:

1 large avocado
1/2 cup couscous
1/4 small red onion, peeled & finely diced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 handfuls mixed leaves

visit The Stone Soup for Instructions!

#3. Cranberry and Avocado Salad with Sweet Almonds and White Balsamic Vinaigrette

Honest Cooking

Ingredients:

Ingredients for the dressing:

½ cup (60g) sugar
1 ½ tablespoons poppy seeds
1 ½ tablespoons sesame seeds
1 teaspoon paprika
2 teaspoons dried mustard
1 tablespoon minced sweet onion
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ cup (120 ml) white balsamic vinegar
⅓ cup (70 ml) vegetable oil
⅓ cup (70 ml) extra virgin olive oil

Ingredients for the salad:

12 ounces (340g) baby spinach, arugula, field greens
1 small bunch cilantro, washed and dried, leaves removed whole from stems (discard the stems or use for another recipe)
2 medium avocados, peeled and halved
1½ cup (115g) dried cranberries
1½ cup (115g) Candied Spiced Almonds (see recipe)

Ingredients for the almonds:

5 cups (600g) sliced almonds, or a 1 pound package
cup (100g) sugar
3 tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon cumin*
1-1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika* – some smoked paprika are quite hot, if you don’t like “hot”, just use 1 teaspoon and they will be mildly spiced.
1 teaspoon vanilla
sea salt
The cumin and the smoked paprika give just a hint of mysterious, delicious flavor – even though these are savory spices, these almonds are still wonderful served with sweets like ice cream or yogurt.

visit Honest Cooking for Instructions!

#4. Best Guacamole Ever

Style Me Pretty

Ingredients:

3 Ripe Avocados (preferably the black ones)
1 Lime
2 Cloves of Garlic
1 tsp Salt
1 tbs White Onion, minced
2 tbs Cilantro, chopped
1 Tbs Hot Sauce
1 tsp sour cream
*optional 1 tsp jalapeno, seeded and minced

visit Style Me Pretty for Instructions!

#5. Sweet Potato and Avocado Soup

Healthy.Happy. Life

Ingredients:

1 cup mashed sweet potato (from a baked sweet potato – all sticky and sweet)
1/2 cup+ No-Chicken Broth (or substitute vegetable broth) — add more to thin out to desired consistency
1/2 cup soy milk*, original or plain or unsweetened flavors (I used Soy Dream)
*almond milk will work too

Add to taste (what I used):
* orange or satsuma zest (a pinch)
* salt (3 pinches)
* chipotle powder (1/2 tsp)

Garnish:
1/4 cup diced avocado
2-3 tortilla chips, crushed (I used red, spicy jalapeno chips!)
dash of seasoned chili salt

Optional: nutritional yeast, canned white beans (blended in), cinnamon, black pepper, cayenne, lime juice (lime wedge served on side), parsley or chopped spinach served over top.

p.s. This is a Vegan Recipe

visit lunchboxbunch.com for instructions!

#6. Spicy Pork Chops with Avocado Cream Sauce

Taylor Made

Ingredients:

-4 thick-cut boneless pork chops
-1/2 tsp chile powder
-1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
-1/4 tsp garlic powder
-1/4 tsp paprika
-1/4 tsp salt
-1/4 tsp pepper
-1 tbsp butter
-1 tbsp olive oil
-1 ripe avocado
-1/2 cup greek yogurt
-1/4 cup almond milk
-Juice of 1/2 lime
-Salt and pepper to taste

visit Taylor Made for Instructions!

#7. Chicken Enchilada Casserole

I Wash You Dry

Ingredients:

1 cup sliced yellow onion
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
2 cups red enchilada sauce; divided
1 cup black beans; drained and rinsed
1 cup pinto beans; drained and rinsed
1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp freshly ground pepper
2 avocados, pitted, peeled and sliced
6-8 corn tortillas
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sliced black olives
sour cream (optional)
diced tomatoes (optional)

visit I Wash You Dry for Instructions!

#8. Avocado Fries with Cilantro Dipping Sauce

Adventures in Cooking

Ingredients:

Avocado Fries

Oil For Frying

2 Avocados

2 Eggs, beaten

1 and 1/3 Cup Bread Crumbs

1 Teaspoon Lemon Pepper

1/2 Teaspoon Salt

1/4 Teaspoon Cumin

Cilantro Lemon Dipping Sauce

5 Tablespoons Mayonnaise

3 Tablespoons Fresh Cilantro, chopped

Juice from 1/2 of Lemon

visit Adventures in Cooking for Instructions!

#9. Guacamole Grilled Cheese Sandwich

two peas & their pod

Ingredients:

To make the guacamole:
2 ripe avocados
1/2 small onion, minced
1 clove garlic, minced
1 small jalapeño, stems and seeds removed, minced
2 tablespoons cilantro leaves, finely chopped
1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
A dash of freshly grated black pepper
1 Roma tomato, chopped

4 slices crusty white bread
4 slices Cheddar cheese
Butter, for buttering bread

visit two peas & their pod for Instructions!

#10. Chicken, Bacon & Avocado Chopped Salad

Gimme Some Oven

Ingredients:

Salad Ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
salt and pepper
1 Tbsp. olive oil
8 cups chopped Romaine lettuce
8 slices bacon, cooked and diced
4 ounces blue cheese, crumbled
2 avocados, pitted and diced
2 roma tomatoes, diced
1/4 cup garlic vinaigrette (see recipe below)
1/4 cup chopped green onions

Garlic Herb Vinaigrette Ingredients:

1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard (optional)
pinch of salt and freshly-cracked black pepper
1 Tbsp. dried Italian seasonings
1 1/2 cups extra virgin olive oil

visit Gimme Some Oven for Instructions!

Ingredients

225 grams dried spaghetti (8 ounces)
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
10 grams flat leaf parsley (.35 ounces)
10 grams cilantro (.35 ounces)
4 grams chervil (.15 ounces)
1 clove garlic roughly chopped
30 grams Parmigiano-Reggiano (1 ounce), grated
1/2 teaspoon salt
160 grams shrimp shelled and deveined
100 grams crabmeat
1 ripe avocado
1 lemon

– See more at: http://norecipes.com/blog/shrimp-and-avocado-pasta/#sthash.jahy8o1Q.dpuf

225 grams dried spaghetti (8 ounces)
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
10 grams flat leaf parsley (.35 ounces)
10 grams cilantro (.35 ounces)
4 grams chervil (.15 ounces)
1 clove garlic roughly chopped
30 grams Parmigiano-Reggiano (1 ounce), grated
1/2 teaspoon salt
160 grams shrimp shelled and deveined
100 grams crabmeat
1 ripe avocado
1 lemon

– See more at: http://norecipes.com/blog/shrimp-and-avocado-pasta/#sthash.jahy8o1Q.dpuf

Ingredients

Shrimp and Avocado Pasta

10 Clothing Storage Solutions…Perfect for Every Space

July 13, 2013

Sara Silver . Home Design, Home Projects . Organization, Storage

Bonanza

Hanging and folding clothes is not my forte. In fact, I try to avoid laundry at all costs. I love to clean and mop and dust and decorate…I just really, really hate laundry. Can anyone else relate? With that in mind I am constantly looking for easy ways to organize clothes – making the transition from the dryer to the closet seamless and if possible skipping the whole folding thing all together. We’re in an apartment for the time being so for now space is an issue too. If you’re in a flat or studio apartment then creating a closet space is really the biggest challenge. Here are some great clothing storage solutions for any type of home and for anyone who hates folding as much as I do!

Apartment Therapy

I love this because traditionally if you’re in an apartment you’re stuck with white walls. Hanging your clothes is plain site brings in a lot of color and texture and besides, what could be easier than standing up on your bed and deciding what to wear!

Ifra Lahell

Whimsical and perfect for displaying clothes in a nursery or toddlers room.

FFFFound

My husband has a hundred hats and I find them laying all over the place which is why this set up would be great for him. The idea of a shelf and hanging bar would be excellent for heels and skirts as well. Displaying a picture over the clothes storage area completes the look.

Ikea

Oh, IKEA…stop making things that I want to buy.

We Heart It

Closet systems are available everywhere and are relatively inexpensive. This one is a shoe rack, dresser and hanging closet combined. I love the colorful storage boxes; they give this a polished look.

SF Bay Girl

This is a guys room down to every last detail. The clothes are easily accessible and organized and they look perfect hanging in this space (which helps if you’re bringing a girl over).

Radical Possibilities

I have to admit, this is one of my favorites. All you need is some hardware and a corner. Utilizes every inch of space which is vitally important when space is limited.

https://reclaimingyourcastle.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/e6af5-closet.jpg

Source Unknown

Vintage perfection. You can find these salvaged pieces at any thrift shop and mimic the set up of any prefabricated storage system. Love this.

Apartment Therapy

Again, accessibility is key and with this you can go from the laundry basket to hanging in one step. The natural look is nice here, too.

Be Different Act Normal

Finding creative ways to organize accessories can be challenging – all this is from a cork board! Very cool.

7 Sinfully Delicious, Savory Sandwiches…

July 12, 2013

Sara Silver . Food . Easy Meals, Sandwiches

The Candid Appetite

There is nothing better than a good sandwich. Warm toasty bread, juicy meats and savory condiments…or a crispy baguette with bright herbs and seasonings and fresh vegetables. You can dress it up with steak or bring it down home with pulled pork and slaw…I love a good sandwich. I’m currently experimenting with juicing, subbing lunch and/or breakfast for a big glass of fresh squeezed sludge. Don’t get me wrong, I love the burst of energy I get and I feel better, and lighter…but while I’m drinking it I’m imagining it’s one of these sandwiches.

#1. Deli-Style Reuben Sandwich

Basil

via All Recipes

Ingredients:

8 slices rye bread

3/4 cup thousand island dressing

1 (16 ounce) can sauerkraut, drained

8 slices Swiss cheese

8 slices pastrami

1/4 cup margarine, softened

Directions

Spread each slice of bread with thousand island dressing. Top 4 of the bread slices with sauerkraut, cheese and pastrami. Place remaining bread slices on sandwich. Spread margarine on the outsides of each sandwich.
Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Grill until browned, then turn and grill until heated through, and cheese is melted.

#2. Loaded Italian Chicken Sub

Bev Cooks

Ingredients:

* 2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 (10 oz) can tomato sauce
* 2 slices bacon, halved
* 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 2 Tbs. caesar salad dressing
* 2 hoagie or submarine buns
* 2 tsp Dijon mustard
* 2 pepperoncinis, stems removed and sliced
* 8 – 10 pepperoni
* a few slices of provolone cheese (or cheddar)
* coarse salt and freshly ground pepper

* a few slices of provolone cheese (or cheddar)
* coarse salt and freshly ground pepper

Bev Cooks

Visit Bev Cooks for Directions

#3. Spicy Pulled Pork Popper Sandwich

Mom on Time Out

Ingredients

sliced sourdough bread
Philadelphia Spicy Jalapeño cream cheese
butter

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

4-6 lb bone-in pork shoulder roast
2 medium onions, chopped
4 cloves garlic, crushed
3/4 c apple cider vinegar
3/4 c light brown sugar
2 Tbls chili powder
2 Tbls Worcestershire sauce
18 oz barbecue sauce, divided
2 Tbls mustard

Caramelized Onions

4 onions, sliced
2 Tbls olive oil
1 tsp salt

Visit Mom-On-Time-Out for Instructions

#4. South of the Border Sandwiches

The Girl Who Ate Everything

Ingredients

1 loaf French bread, cut into 3/4″ thick slices
½ cup olives, chopped
½ teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon ground cumin
¼ teaspoon salt
1/3 cup lite mayonnaise
1/3 cup nonfat sour cream
1/3 cup green onions, chopped
1 pound sliced turkey
2 medium tomatoes, thinly sliced
2 ripe avocados, sliced
¾ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
¾ cup pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

The Girl Who Ate Everything

Visit The Girl Who Ate Everything for Instructions

#5. Fried Chicken and Waffle Sandwiches

The Candid Appetite

Bacon Cheddar Green Onion Waffles / Ingredients:

2 cups (150 grams) all-purpose flour
¼ cup (55 grams) light-brown sugar
1 teaspoon (8 grams) baking soda
1 ½ teaspoons (6 grams) baking powder
½ teaspoon (4 grams) salt
2 teaspoons (14 grams) freshly cracked black pepper
3 large eggs, room temperature
⅓ cup (76 grams) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
2 cups (484 grams) buttermilk, room temperature
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup (100 grams) cheddar cheese, shredded
5 scallions (green onions) thinly sliced
cooking spray, for waffle iron

The Candid Appetite

Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Ingredients:

4 chicken breast cutlets, cut in half so you end up with 8 half pieces
1½ cups (363 grams) buttermilk
1 tablespoon (15 ml) hot sauce, optional
1½ cups (188 grams) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon (6 grams) salt
1 teaspoon (6 grams) cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon (6 grams) garlic powder
1 teaspoon (6 grams) black pepper
canola oil for frying

The Candid Appetite

Maple Mustard Sauce

Ingredients:

¼ cup (50 ml) real maple syrup
3 tablespoons (45 ml) yellow mustard
3 tablespoons (45 ml) spicy brown mustard or dijon mustard

Visit The Candid Appetite for Preparation and Instruction

#6. Teriyaki Chicken Sub Sandwiches

Half Baked Harvest

Ingredients

1 pound boneless skinless chicken, cut into strips
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1/2 an onion, sliced
2 tablespoons sesame oil
3/4 cup soy sauce or low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup dark brown sugar
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoon vinegar
2/3 cup pineapple juice
2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
1/4 cup water
1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch

For the Sandwich

1 whole grain baguette, toasted or 4 whole wheat sub rolls
1 cup swiss cheese, freshly shredded
4 green onions, sliced

Half Baked Harvest

Visit Half Baked Harvest for Instructions

Notes

*If you want to make this even easier you can sub 3/4 cup of store bought teriyaki sauce for the homemade. Just add it with the chicken and veggies and bring to a boil.

#7. Monte Cristo Sandwiches

Simply Goumet

For each sandwich you will need:

3 pieces of bread
3 slices of ham
3 slices of turkey
1 or 2 slices of Cheddar cheese
1 or 2 slices of Swiss cheese
Saran Wrap

Dusting of Powdered Sugar
Raspberry or Blackberry Jam

To Deep Fry:

Pancake mix
About 2 inches of oil in the bottom of a large pot

When I make this sandwich, I decide how many I need and make them all together. I lay my bread out, layer the cheese and meat and then stack. Your layers will be: bread, swiss, turkey, swiss, bread, cheddar, ham, cheddar, bread…with me so far? See pictures, it helps.

Simply Gourmet

Take a piece of Saran Wrap and place a sandwich in the middle. You want to squish the sandwich and then wrap it tight. The sandwich should be half of what you started with.

Before and After

Visit Simply Gourmet for the remainder of the Instructions

Design Inspiration for Your Entryway…Tables and Storage

July 11, 2013

Sara Silver . Home Design, Inspiration . Entryway, Storage, Tables

Inspirations by D

I have an entryway table that just never looks right. It seems simple enough; a collection of vases, some pictures, a mirror maybe…but the real trick is knowing how to pull it all together and keep it that way. It’s just a table, but it’s also the first thing people see when they walk into your home. In my house it’s a dumping ground for keys and book bags and papers and despite my greatest efforts to keep it clutter free…clutter always finds its way back. Here are a few entryway designs that I would love to try and recreate…not just for the style but for the practicality and storage space as well.

Inside the Loop

I really like the monochromatic look of this set up and how it allows the large portrait to take center stage. The big storage boxes would be great for umbrellas and rain boots and they really help balance everything out.

Remodel Aholic

This is so beautiful and balanced but a little overcrowded. To make this work, I would lose some of the smaller pieces in the front and add storage underneath. I love the lamps.

Homeslice

Really great for an apartment or town home or any home that has limited space by the door. The drawers are perfect for organization and the mirrors running up the wall make the space look much larger.

Today and Yesterday Design

I adore the look of unfinished wood and the accompanying terracotta really adds to the earthiness of this design. There’s something very peaceful about natural tones and bringing a bit of the outdoors in as you enter the home. Again, good storage space with the drawers and basket underneath.

The Sweat Beast

I did a post on dip dyed furniture and this is one of the pieces I featured. I love it; it makes the table a focal point whether or not the surface is decorated. Again, in the absence of drawers I would add storage underneath to keep the table clutter free.

Farmhouse Porch

When my kids grow up and move out I will have this table and just throw my stuff on the floor… : )

Salted Caramel Brownies…Heaven on a Plate

July 10, 2013

Sara Silver . Food . Chocolate, Desserts

Baked Bree

We have a Brewster’s Ice Cream shop across the street from our home and this summer they decided to introduce a Salted Caramel (with and without toffee) flavor of pure heaven in a cone that I now cannot live without. It’s rediculous…first, that they would make it, and second that I keep buying more. I can’t stop!

I would hate to be the only one overindulging, therefore I am presenting you with the recipe for the most amazing Salted Caramel Brownies ever made (that might be a bit of an overstatement, but seriously, they’re sooo good). Friday night, a couple of these warm on a plate with a big glass of milk and shameless Bravo television…yeah, that sounds about right.

via Baked Bree

Salted Caramel

1 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
2 Tablespoons light corn syrup
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon fleur de del
1/4 cup sour cream

Brownies

1 1/4 cups flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 Tablespoons cocoa
11 ounces bittersweet chocolate (I had an assortment of different kinds)
1 cup butter
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
5 eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla
1 Tablespoon Kahlua
1 teaspoon fleur de sel
1 teaspoon coarse sugar

Bring sugar, water, and corn syrup to a boil over medium-high heat.

While the sugar is coming to a boil, get everything ready to go. Trust me, sugar can go from perfect to burnt in about 5 seconds.

When the sugar turns a deep amber color (around 350 degrees, but I do not use a thermometer for this), Slowly pour in the cream. Whisk constantly. The mixture may seize, especially if your cream is cold, but keep whisking, it will come back together. Add the sour cream and fleur de sel.

Whisk it until it is smooth and comes together. Set aside and get working on the brownies.

Chop the chocolate. This is looking good already.

In a small bowl, combine flour, salt, and cocoa. Mix well, and set aside.

Melt the butter and chocolate over a double boiler. You can do this in the microwave if you want.

Stir the chocolate until nice and smooth.

Add both sugars.

Whisk in the eggs.

Add the kahlua and vanilla.

Mix in the flour mixture, stir until it is incorporated.

Line a 9×13 pan with parchment or tin foil. Spray with cooking spray. Pour half of the brownie batter into the pan.

Pour the caramel over the batter.

Add the rest of the batter to the top. Bake for 30 minutes in a preheated 350 degree oven, rotating the pan halfway through. Take the brownie out of the oven and sprinkle with the sea salt ans coarse sugar. Cool completely before cutting.

Instructions

Bring sugar, water, and corn syrup to a boil over medium-high heat.
While the sugar is coming to a boil, get everything ready to go. Trust me, sugar can go from perfect to burnt in about 5 seconds.
When the sugar turns a deep amber color (around 350 degrees, but I do not use a thermometer for this), Slowly pour in the cream. Whisk constantly. The mixture may seize, especially if your cream is cold, but keep whisking, it will come back together. Add the sour cream and fleur de sel.
Whisk it until it is smooth and comes together. Set aside and get working on the brownies.
Chop the chocolate. This is looking good already.
In a small bowl, combine flour, salt, and cocoa. Mix well, and set aside.
Melt the butter and chocolate over a double boiler. You can do this in the microwave if you want.
Stir the chocolate until nice and smooth.
Add both sugars.
Whisk in the eggs.
Add the kahlua and vanilla.
Mix in the flour mixture, stir until it is incorporated.
Line a 9×13 pan with parchment or tin foil. Spray with cooking spray. Pour half of the brownie batter into the pan.
Pour the caramel over the batter.
Add the rest of the batter to the top. Bake for 30 minutes in a preheated 350 degree oven, rotating the pan halfway through. Take the brownie out of the oven and sprinkle with the sea salt ans coarse sugar. Cool completely before cutting.

A Website That Tells YOU What’s For Dinner…My Fridge Food

July 9, 2013

Sara Silver . Food, Inspiration . Food Sites

My Fridge Food

Have you ever stood in your kitchen, arm propped against an open refrigerator door, staring at an assortment of ingredients wondering if any of them add up to a meal? Well, stand and stare no more! My Fridge Food does all the work for you…you plug in what you have in your fridge and pantry and it spits back an array of possibilities. The recipes begin with those matching all of the ingredients you have on hand and then work their way down to others that might only require one or two more. Not only will this save tons of time and trips to the store, it’s an awesome resource for cutting back on waste by helping utilize food you’ve already purchased. One of my new favorite sites…and yet another reason why I love the internet. Check it out!

Quick Kitchen

MY FRIDGE FOOD

Pop Sugar

my fridge food

what’s in your fridge?

my fridge food

what’s in your fridge?

my fridge food

what’s in your fridge?

Quick Kitchen

Use Detailed Kitchen

Check the items in your kitchen and click “Find Recipes” below

Apples	Avocado	Bacon
Baking Powder	Barbecue Sauce	Beer (in general)
Bread (in General)	Brown / Dijon Mustard	Brown Sugar
Butter / Margarine	Cheese (in General)	Chicken / Turkey (in General)
Chicken Breast	Chicken Broth / Soup / Stock	Corn Starch
Cream of Veggie (in general)	Doritos	Eggs
Fish (in General)	Flour	Garlic
Ground Beef	Honey	Ketchup / Catsup
Lemon Juice	Mayonnaise	Milk
Onions / Shallots	Pasta Noodles (in General)	Peanut Butter
Peppers (in General)	Potatoes	Ramen
Rice (in General)	Salsa	Shortening / Oil (General)
Shrimp	Steak	Sugar
Tomato / Red Sauce (General)	Tomatoes	Tortillas / Taco Shells
Vinegar (in General)	Yellow Cake Mix	Zucchini

– See more at: http://www.myfridgefood.com/index.php#sthash.BsgwSqfG.dpuf

Quick Kitchen

Use Detailed Kitchen

Check the items in your kitchen and click “Find Recipes” below

Apples	Avocado	Bacon
Baking Powder	Barbecue Sauce	Beer (in general)
Bread (in General)	Brown / Dijon Mustard	Brown Sugar
Butter / Margarine	Cheese (in General)	Chicken / Turkey (in General)
Chicken Breast	Chicken Broth / Soup / Stock	Corn Starch
Cream of Veggie (in general)	Doritos	Eggs
Fish (in General)	Flour	Garlic
Ground Beef	Honey	Ketchup / Catsup
Lemon Juice	Mayonnaise	Milk
Onions / Shallots	Pasta Noodles (in General)	Peanut Butter
Peppers (in General)	Potatoes	Ramen
Rice (in General)	Salsa	Shortening / Oil (General)
Shrimp	Steak	Sugar
Tomato / Red Sauce (General)	Tomatoes	Tortillas / Taco Shells
Vinegar (in General)	Yellow Cake Mix	Zucchini