tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-205899482024-03-13T12:28:27.532-04:00Melissa's Vegan BlogVegan Food and LifeMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.comBlogger350125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-43830745767123525052013-05-15T17:45:00.001-04:002013-05-15T17:45:27.499-04:00Cashew spreadI made this garden herb spreadable "cheese" this week and it is fantastic! You wouldn't guess that it is soy free and cashew based. Its delicious spread on bagels like cream cheese...a great breakfast option for me since I avoid soy in the morning and therefore can't use the Tofutti cream chrese. I've also used it as a salad dressing and mixed it into pasta sauce....yum!<div><br></div><div>Here is the link: <span style="color: rgb(98, 98, 98); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; line-height: 19px; white-space: nowrap; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">http://vegnews.reach.li/c/6sgTHm/</span></div><div><span style="color: rgb(98, 98, 98); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; line-height: 19px; white-space: nowrap; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><br></span></div><div><span style="color: rgb(98, 98, 98); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; line-height: 19px; white-space: nowrap; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_P-OLUXiI-FqoHCuAMYZ0PxBXNAaxOl1Rp5IwfMNE0-RbnjJ2HiES3USUd16ybj54eGVVHiYNlaSi_36EFbSjaM0znUHJnEoCP_wt5EzWOs0BTM1W6csJoe_rNFcyeIs7Q9cN/s640/blogger-image--2119729238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_P-OLUXiI-FqoHCuAMYZ0PxBXNAaxOl1Rp5IwfMNE0-RbnjJ2HiES3USUd16ybj54eGVVHiYNlaSi_36EFbSjaM0znUHJnEoCP_wt5EzWOs0BTM1W6csJoe_rNFcyeIs7Q9cN/s640/blogger-image--2119729238.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-22479428646827530472013-05-11T22:21:00.002-04:002013-05-11T22:21:09.349-04:00Baby Ian is here!After 9 long months (and then some), my handsome baby boy, Ian Robert, is here! We did not know the gender before hand so it was such a treat to find out. Pretty much everyone I know either thought it was a girl or wanted it to be a girl, but there can be no disappointment for this precious gift we've been given. My labour did not go the way I wanted and I ended up with an emergency C-section to get him out safely, but it doesn't matter anymore. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrzzJt09cf7JzpaDubNnrk2F-usGSHBubvbQENaxPENL1rAVypILpVakQyDo7UcfAQ0sXY39Dvyy1-pXHJ7RbVKZK_Oq2D2lQ5bzd2FBEPntWKn5mPdaHAX973-hujAKvTrNvB/s1600/Ian+week+1+045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrzzJt09cf7JzpaDubNnrk2F-usGSHBubvbQENaxPENL1rAVypILpVakQyDo7UcfAQ0sXY39Dvyy1-pXHJ7RbVKZK_Oq2D2lQ5bzd2FBEPntWKn5mPdaHAX973-hujAKvTrNvB/s320/Ian+week+1+045.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilNPYPLBR4m-qXmk9jXSV7iGMaQHxyl6Jk0kGzt4nNJGyOx-U7tS2K8wqAJW44JX4sGw4Wbm0ZzaT2nPLSVMH-ap3-M8jCVxZJy33vp5QAMKkwV0ItUDpZPXHjrwqwSPQojj0_/s1600/Ian+week+1+096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilNPYPLBR4m-qXmk9jXSV7iGMaQHxyl6Jk0kGzt4nNJGyOx-U7tS2K8wqAJW44JX4sGw4Wbm0ZzaT2nPLSVMH-ap3-M8jCVxZJy33vp5QAMKkwV0ItUDpZPXHjrwqwSPQojj0_/s320/Ian+week+1+096.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We will be subsisting on frozen meals I made before Ian arrived so I don't know how many food updates I'll have for the next few weeks but here are a couple of things I made in the last week of my pregnancy.<br />
<br />
<b>Chocolate Mint Oreo Cupcakes- Vegan Cupcakes Take Over the World</b><br />
HUGE fan of having the cookies in the batter :) I made these for my sister's birthday dinner. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirbDaobe4QS-nFIGuRwZ4ZsA7MW1bTuZzdSxTBs9lRr1RXSzihvBLnUxM58oKZQo0Yv6wruQn7zPzgi7aJsbHS6PHMutE8Mdr2EypmjgKR39FV2b1FAqDm7CA5gJKb5NRszEBX/s1600/Ian+week+1+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirbDaobe4QS-nFIGuRwZ4ZsA7MW1bTuZzdSxTBs9lRr1RXSzihvBLnUxM58oKZQo0Yv6wruQn7zPzgi7aJsbHS6PHMutE8Mdr2EypmjgKR39FV2b1FAqDm7CA5gJKb5NRszEBX/s320/Ian+week+1+008.JPG" width="179" /></a></div>
<b>Hot and Sour Soup- La Dolce Vegan</b><br />
I was missing a few ingredients for this so it was pretty basic...but also very yummy and quick, which is great when you can only stand for ten minutes at a time ;)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDNmQpqDjidripLIF1dDeZX036pER4sA6V7BXgAYjr164px0H-NLq_1wI6BMNUkbboNv8e_1dKAbUH1hCbte6t2qxjs21yz2yEBqvcHy-2ngz6poy2yjqkH3wGORtei5-ASnfR/s1600/Ian+week+1+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDNmQpqDjidripLIF1dDeZX036pER4sA6V7BXgAYjr164px0H-NLq_1wI6BMNUkbboNv8e_1dKAbUH1hCbte6t2qxjs21yz2yEBqvcHy-2ngz6poy2yjqkH3wGORtei5-ASnfR/s320/Ian+week+1+009.JPG" width="179" /></a></div>
<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-46606153267721174092013-04-17T11:16:00.000-04:002013-04-17T11:16:01.157-04:00Bad Blogger!OK, so I wouldn't even identify myself as a "blogger" anymore, maybe just someone who happens to have a blog that is rarely updated? I can't bring myself to shut it down completely, if for no other reason than I often refer to past posts for recipe ideas and things I changed about recipes when I'm cooking.<br />
<br />
The past few months have been crazy, with full time work, baby on the way, etc, etc. I have been cooking, but I stopped taking pictures, because most nights it was an accomplishment in itself just to have a home cooked meal, picture or not. I have a few pictures on my camera that I'll post, but I don't remember which recipes they all are!<br />
<br />
Baby Vegan is expected any time now. My estimated due date is the end of April but I am now full term and on maternity leave for a year! Youppi! I expect I'll be able to post a birth announcement and then probably go into hiding for a few weeks while hubby and I adjust to new life as parents.<br />
<br />
<b>Balsamic Glazed "Chicken" with Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa</b><br />
I believe both of these recipes came from Pinterest and I just veganized them. Delicious, especially the <a href="http://www.closetcooking.com/2012/11/cheesy-broccoli-quinoa.html" target="_blank">quinoa</a>!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVdQPWOqJJ-WE8XjR8ak7A8JVb14fkRNvjFBd-AbMGlg_8KvrHiuzfhxjeAA-MQcKUQOEDkk1EMlFKIL3KfuQaLu3Z8winGvFt4Uxavjzu1kQZdNsNIEIHnbeZeKl4T_OstDun/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVdQPWOqJJ-WE8XjR8ak7A8JVb14fkRNvjFBd-AbMGlg_8KvrHiuzfhxjeAA-MQcKUQOEDkk1EMlFKIL3KfuQaLu3Z8winGvFt4Uxavjzu1kQZdNsNIEIHnbeZeKl4T_OstDun/s320/001.JPG" width="179" /></a></div>
<br />
Mystery Meal: some sort of rice and beans! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4nJJ_PEEOJt5226HaYOWC7HlqHLqd36kZ2BxNmI00zZEXQKqWFcrPe0E44iQHrhjff2xZtHw5kdJpMXfJVQPm1deQoC9TNSN2gNXmC0asPqJXMxbhRwWUwg9ZOjhmUWm7ZGxl/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4nJJ_PEEOJt5226HaYOWC7HlqHLqd36kZ2BxNmI00zZEXQKqWFcrPe0E44iQHrhjff2xZtHw5kdJpMXfJVQPm1deQoC9TNSN2gNXmC0asPqJXMxbhRwWUwg9ZOjhmUWm7ZGxl/s320/002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Chocolate Chip Bars - How It All Vegan</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYo-xBWjYOO9thwxZU7VqBRXOmAWKtZ0DBySOqzKKLqHK8-l-aBPjUUBnp8BcjtJipI_Vty0bQ7164Ug1GuUVqpkX-xsPTC7G1ysnjoVqjZMa5zLen-28yjTFBa1T-iEPIGJku/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYo-xBWjYOO9thwxZU7VqBRXOmAWKtZ0DBySOqzKKLqHK8-l-aBPjUUBnp8BcjtJipI_Vty0bQ7164Ug1GuUVqpkX-xsPTC7G1ysnjoVqjZMa5zLen-28yjTFBa1T-iEPIGJku/s320/003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We are huge fans of hummus. In my second trimester, I was making beans and chickpeas from scratch every Sunday and then making delicious, homemade hummus, from various recipes. I've slacked on this in the last few weeks and we've been buying it. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkTJkuZ-JDbCIZa4GI_4FHH79IodgyxuT-ob3LnMKwlkqEPHFTBze8-vGHOw2Yd86JN8e9q1KZVirJx-HrG0khoPcBA82JZGWYvLAFz06whNlgXAhdBS81tasCmsLi8E8XZOSK/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkTJkuZ-JDbCIZa4GI_4FHH79IodgyxuT-ob3LnMKwlkqEPHFTBze8-vGHOw2Yd86JN8e9q1KZVirJx-HrG0khoPcBA82JZGWYvLAFz06whNlgXAhdBS81tasCmsLi8E8XZOSK/s320/004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>Spaghetti and Beanballs- Veganomicon</b><br />
Pretty good, but I prefer the "meatballs" from La Dolce Vegan. For all the prep these took, I would've preferred to just stir beans into the sauce. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFuf_eawErqh8OXSwuc_jMR2kRHYRWpzCyZ3Deu33qalYnyMIjvWdVowoKQ_eNOuqirFFu9XoDNPSd_hqRmlfoNLyXskki8fBE1_2MPLQb-Xe8Xm1vxCspAGXsfloaJKfxyE0k/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFuf_eawErqh8OXSwuc_jMR2kRHYRWpzCyZ3Deu33qalYnyMIjvWdVowoKQ_eNOuqirFFu9XoDNPSd_hqRmlfoNLyXskki8fBE1_2MPLQb-Xe8Xm1vxCspAGXsfloaJKfxyE0k/s320/005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Rice and lentils (probably from Supermarket Vegan) <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbm5yFFfmwcMImGjZywsMJT_NqrBBMMsmdBjtr6d7H-Ct246ihkNT3Zwu88oPYWMm2664vCyDiKL8vZO1s0qggO6_ELBMWpChjskPT2O2r0WZyeAxOfc4_ixWR0PmLH4VIrh4U/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbm5yFFfmwcMImGjZywsMJT_NqrBBMMsmdBjtr6d7H-Ct246ihkNT3Zwu88oPYWMm2664vCyDiKL8vZO1s0qggO6_ELBMWpChjskPT2O2r0WZyeAxOfc4_ixWR0PmLH4VIrh4U/s320/006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Boston Cream Pie Cake- Vegan Pie in the Sky </b><br />
<br />
I had a Chapter's gift card and treated myself to this book so I'd have the trifecta (cupcakes, cookies and pie!) This cake pie was delicious! Chocolate pie crust, followed by vanilla cake and a cream layer, topped with ganache. Yum!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnGzyn4mtuhZ1PAjCuhRjfmwYvUa2pJYTCTrnUgBSsLmikMCoROUd2OhN_xxKOXBRFVmG0P0cfxf3Pv3HuON8NYfABUBGA7Y8SWaw2wTYB6TVAD9n_k06DR9fxXRMQ6CeQgLkc/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnGzyn4mtuhZ1PAjCuhRjfmwYvUa2pJYTCTrnUgBSsLmikMCoROUd2OhN_xxKOXBRFVmG0P0cfxf3Pv3HuON8NYfABUBGA7Y8SWaw2wTYB6TVAD9n_k06DR9fxXRMQ6CeQgLkc/s320/007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Mystery Meal- Orzo and red beans <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXd0x0pCAN1ZhyEkMlxpnGq5Yf86xYsbbVeoyLV2tvH2EdXLngb4SSgPOhWQOZRqzSr_rDwDirpXEtlibox1jL_o2afwiiK2OcO7WsruOETpY8XBWuK0Sca_94aTSkWXVfenEw/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXd0x0pCAN1ZhyEkMlxpnGq5Yf86xYsbbVeoyLV2tvH2EdXLngb4SSgPOhWQOZRqzSr_rDwDirpXEtlibox1jL_o2afwiiK2OcO7WsruOETpY8XBWuK0Sca_94aTSkWXVfenEw/s320/008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Strawberry Tarts- Vegan Pie in the Sky </b><br />
So good! I used frozen premade tart crusts since I had a bunch to use up. These are simple and light, and the coconut whipped topping is great. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8FHUwBv8k_p08aYsT357aRpsowlR4m5kGRYzdvmG0Hf7fXgYtDl78CR0lKO9WmTQxwtIloZrOjk2jn54Ax9OSa6TyFYxDVViTbaE1a7WJVhSdgujoK8bnl3k4QL8vboMYZAqm/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8FHUwBv8k_p08aYsT357aRpsowlR4m5kGRYzdvmG0Hf7fXgYtDl78CR0lKO9WmTQxwtIloZrOjk2jn54Ax9OSa6TyFYxDVViTbaE1a7WJVhSdgujoK8bnl3k4QL8vboMYZAqm/s320/009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Spicy Creamy Kale Pasta- recipe <a href="http://www.cheapandsimpleveganrecipes.com/vegan-spicy-creamy-kale-pasta/" target="_blank">here </a></b><br />
<br />
I found this one on Pinterest and will be making it again. It was fantastic, and a great way to sneak in some nuts. I've been making an effort to eat more nuts during the pregnancy, although usually I stick to peanut butter!<b> </b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifcoXMafagWVxv_kYmEYoVhd3v0juqtDoNJ4bTEdVKjCrQNwXh7aG17j6tUMmTLnLRDyHnrLar9UywqX9XXxLJBQwfEnYanBoyAMNO6mI5I87BJdZ7qOwoQJnieZBINwITWftF/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifcoXMafagWVxv_kYmEYoVhd3v0juqtDoNJ4bTEdVKjCrQNwXh7aG17j6tUMmTLnLRDyHnrLar9UywqX9XXxLJBQwfEnYanBoyAMNO6mI5I87BJdZ7qOwoQJnieZBINwITWftF/s320/010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<b> </b><br />
<b>Spaghetti Sauce- recipe <a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/jo-mamas-world-famous-spaghetti-22782" target="_blank">here</a></b><br />
Billy and I went to visit friends of ours with a new baby and we couldn't go empty handed, so we brought some goodies for them. One of them being this spaghetti and "meat sauce". I veganized the recipe by using Tofurky sausages and Yves Ground Round. Soooo good. Billy stole a bowl of it before we brought it over, and I've since made it for his birthday dinner. I'll also be making more this week to freeze for dinners after the baby is born. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy7BfHsSPcIlOEw_yBB3eE3qwBfe1EUzW0B4Sp_4YueFv4VqdbvCT7maycQySagaBeZf1DGXDgpFEfi2BvW7oVnSrbjtgbggbkfgmntCF1DL8WNz3sPfBs87PBavXzOzhOS4O2/s1600/011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy7BfHsSPcIlOEw_yBB3eE3qwBfe1EUzW0B4Sp_4YueFv4VqdbvCT7maycQySagaBeZf1DGXDgpFEfi2BvW7oVnSrbjtgbggbkfgmntCF1DL8WNz3sPfBs87PBavXzOzhOS4O2/s320/011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Banana Muffins- nothing special, won't be making these again. Recipe on pinterest somewhere. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8QPVnCXuZp6uqwuxD2P2_xZmKZ05m_cPbVhgt6GByXgdK-EP26RtuIcgUnzvDz54TL-5DSNE3NRIGLF9iqtXZTMSbFCDdmghQVPm7ilrrSgSF97drI8C0AidBXrUsTSb03y4Z/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8QPVnCXuZp6uqwuxD2P2_xZmKZ05m_cPbVhgt6GByXgdK-EP26RtuIcgUnzvDz54TL-5DSNE3NRIGLF9iqtXZTMSbFCDdmghQVPm7ilrrSgSF97drI8C0AidBXrUsTSb03y4Z/s320/012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<b>Banana Everything Cookies (?)- Vegan Cookies Invade Your Cookie Jar</b><br />
Also made for my postpartum friend, since she's a fan of the recipe. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ3vXMNZtt3cOpcynE8ZTQeG6z7LOcnirrfYX1R6tJSNZIpMqiPcqgyK8YBbetEJu2gRIUw0cS-4ZDXb7SB2dRNVEV0fz-TbUuWXDQSSWBidtngQiEXnbYTcwNYmR248z16L1j/s1600/013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ3vXMNZtt3cOpcynE8ZTQeG6z7LOcnirrfYX1R6tJSNZIpMqiPcqgyK8YBbetEJu2gRIUw0cS-4ZDXb7SB2dRNVEV0fz-TbUuWXDQSSWBidtngQiEXnbYTcwNYmR248z16L1j/s320/013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<b>Grill Cupcakes</b><br />
<br />
Billy recently celebrated his 30th birthday. I wanted to do something super special, but being 37 weeks pregnant at the time, we settled for a house party with our closest friends! The theme was beer and BBQ and I would say Billy got his fill of both! These are just basic chocolate cupcakes with chocolate frosting, decorated with hot tamales to look like a charcoal grill :) Idea from pinterest, of course!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_hK5JZi1FwyYy0rVH58NxeewD8GmQyJFSXaitKrHBSiNJ1zvJHuDe73RdRn4dpPo0BvCtFXGG5dmrqVBx9oXwHr8dhkc4dj8gqpHbzaLV5ZChPPAUnryLftXoo4CKOskPq9rz/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_hK5JZi1FwyYy0rVH58NxeewD8GmQyJFSXaitKrHBSiNJ1zvJHuDe73RdRn4dpPo0BvCtFXGG5dmrqVBx9oXwHr8dhkc4dj8gqpHbzaLV5ZChPPAUnryLftXoo4CKOskPq9rz/s320/014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpdhYMkU6Bt_L_Q0jqB1L96Rt9FTCGe-gYHKdxh5xxp55L2Cvuk1B8s4TO4Ley3koc8sFhlHh0tCragNoZ-wR6lYPhRJjaOQfMsx5fx1uKXLv8-ti3LNIjPYYrsFuB9nPwTobG/s1600/015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpdhYMkU6Bt_L_Q0jqB1L96Rt9FTCGe-gYHKdxh5xxp55L2Cvuk1B8s4TO4Ley3koc8sFhlHh0tCragNoZ-wR6lYPhRJjaOQfMsx5fx1uKXLv8-ti3LNIjPYYrsFuB9nPwTobG/s320/015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
And made fresh this morning, and destined for the freezer, raisin bran muffins. Literally made with raisin bran cereal. Recipe to come, if I can find it again! <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhJvtydzPEIzWjGDXJtR7evvCndqy9M90_M8ztVue7jPZPTrneONDmgNushapJDvjka7GsxkmNZu0IO9FxOb19MxSoqqgLcuOofUlf4qqZJzj6SdOQsLHEvkTQQZEHY5pD8um/s1600/021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhJvtydzPEIzWjGDXJtR7evvCndqy9M90_M8ztVue7jPZPTrneONDmgNushapJDvjka7GsxkmNZu0IO9FxOb19MxSoqqgLcuOofUlf4qqZJzj6SdOQsLHEvkTQQZEHY5pD8um/s320/021.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
That's it for now!<br />
Send me your positive labour vibes :)<br />
<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-23801293131339354022012-12-16T14:41:00.003-05:002012-12-16T14:41:56.665-05:00Vegan Pregnancy: Prenatal VitaminsThis may be a boring post if you are not a vegan or pregnant, but if it helps ONE person it will be worth it! I spent hours in the beginning of my pregnancy trying to sort through the vitamin issue and wouldn't wish it upon anyone. So here is what works for me. It has been approved by my doctor and OB/GYN but please consult with your own doctor before starting any type of prenatal vitamin routine.<br />
<br />
* Note, I take my vitamins at night with my evening snack. For one, it's easier on my stomach, and two, it gives me the day to make healthy food choices. Then at the end of the day, I can quickly calculate what kinds of foods and nutrients I've had and decide what vitamins I might need. I take my multi and at least one calcium a day, but add or take away based on how I've eaten that day. Example: If I succumbed to junk food a little too often, I might take extra calcium since I didn't have my regular glass of non-dairy milk or cup of coconut yogurt. I try not to take the attitude of "Oh, I have vitamins, so I should eat whatever I want instead of healthy, beneficial foods." Instead, I look at the vitamins as added extras to my healthy prenatal diet that provides most of the baby's needs on it's own. <br />
<br />
Lets start with the basics. Before I was pregnant, I was already taking a folic acid supplement, since we were trying and it is recommended to have this vitamin in your body in the beginning stages of pregnancy. However, once I found out I was pregnant, I tried to order vegan prenatals. There are actually quite a few vegan prenatal multivitamins available...if you live in the US. I tried ordering them and got a message saying they would not ship them to me in Canada. Which is why I take so many different vitamins now. So any Canadian vegans out there, if you've figured out a way around this or I missed something...let me know!<br />
<br />
Anyways, after figuring out that I would not be able to order a vegan prenatal multi, I did some research. I continued with my regular multivitamin. The reason why health care providers want you to switch from a regular to a prenatal is so that you are getting quantities of vitamins and supplements that are more suitable for pregnant women. One of these vitamins is vitamin A. In large quantities, the animal form of vitamin A can be harmful to a fetus. Well, I was already taking a vegan multi, so no worries there.<br />
<br />
The vegan multi I use is Sisu Supreme Multivitamin. Sisu makes a prenatal vitamin but it contains animal sourced D3. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.vitamart.ca/images/T/sisu-supreme-multivitamin-with-iron.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://www.vitamart.ca/images/T/sisu-supreme-multivitamin-with-iron.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Next, I needed a vegan source of D3, which luckily I already knew about since I take it for my thyroid (I have an underactive thyroid). Global Trax makes a vegan D3 available in spray or capsule form. Vitamin D will also be helpful in warding off the flu this season! I plan on switching to the spray form once Baby arrives so that I can also give it to Baby. <br />
<a href="http://maxcdn.nexternal.com/vegane/images/GHT_D3capsulesLG.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://maxcdn.nexternal.com/vegane/images/GHT_D3capsulesLG.jpg" /></a><br />
For extra iron (more so now than in the first trimester), I take Floravit liquid supplement. It tastes like metallic prune juice but it's not too bad. I heard that liquid supplements were easier on your digestive system which is why I didn't go with a tablet. My hemoglobin levels were high at my last blood test, so this is really just a precaution. I usually only take it every other day or so, until the doctor tells me to step it up.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://canadianvitamins.com/images/Floravit%20Flora.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://canadianvitamins.com/images/Floravit%20Flora.jpg" width="219" /></a><a href="http://www.florahealth.com/prod_img/956.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For calcium, I use Sisu's Maxi Cal tablet. Each tablet contains 300 mg of calcium (approx a third of your daily need, although they recommend more when pregnant). I like that I can choose how much to take in a day depending on what I've eaten that day. These are my least favourite of the vitamins, just because of the size of them. <br /><a href="http://www.natures-source.com/images/P/maxicalS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.natures-source.com/images/P/maxicalS.jpg" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.florahealth.com/prod_img/956.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And for proper brain development for Baby, I take a vegan DHA supplement (omega 3s). These will be especially important during the third trimester for baby's development. Again, I use my judgement on how often I take these, depending on if I've add other healthy fats like nuts that day. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.florahealth.com/prod_img/956.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.florahealth.com/prod_img/956.jpg" /></a> </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Other vitamins I take on occasion: </b></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A zinc tablet once a week</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have stopped taking the separate folic acid, simply because it's in my daily multi and I know that I get more than enough just from the food I eat (I average 8-12 servings of produce a day!) </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One challenge I've been dealing with is how all of these vitamins and certain foods interact with my thyroid medication. I take my thyroid pill in the morning, and am not supposed to ingest large amounts of calcium or soy or any supplement within four hours. This makes it difficult for breakfast when I want cereal with almond or soy milk. I occasionally use coconut milk since it's the only non dairy beverage I can find that is not enriched with calcium. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Soy foods are limited to late afternoon/evening meals. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you have a thyroid problem and want to become pregnant, talk to your doctor. My previous family doctor did not tell me that if I wanted to start a family I should be on a higher dose of thyroid meds (which is probably why it took us upwards of a year to conceive). I've also had to up my dosage 25% as your thyroid hormone needs elevate during pregnancy. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-81829582614197578372012-12-16T14:08:00.002-05:002012-12-16T14:08:18.240-05:00What does a pregnant vegan eat? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Whatever she wants!<br />
<br />
I'm in a pretty good place right now, as far as life balancing goes. Between work, appointments, friends, family and the approaching holidays, I am still managing to get some me time and some cooking done! I think my nesting phase is starting slowly but surely (organizing cupboards and closets). <br />
<br />
<b>Vegetable Lasagna- Quick and Easy Vegan Comfort Foods </b><br />
<br />
This lasagna is layers of noodles, sauce, tofu ricotta, spinach, zucchini, carrots and cheese. I also threw in Yves ground round to the sauce for Billy. It was delicious! I had mine with a side of lemon garlic kale. Billy did not...more for me and the baby!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9uWInaPWT-DRQZLckYPMvSzKAsRGDJjzwWojhUx7BVLJrr1TwJ6oPgsMogp-CW9332BLaehTkMXTO_nUIj0Qq-BUMAc-Nh3aNvmdDs1NLfzqMqwVaqH8axjtjvOIRObJVerZv/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9uWInaPWT-DRQZLckYPMvSzKAsRGDJjzwWojhUx7BVLJrr1TwJ6oPgsMogp-CW9332BLaehTkMXTO_nUIj0Qq-BUMAc-Nh3aNvmdDs1NLfzqMqwVaqH8axjtjvOIRObJVerZv/s320/004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<b>Chocolate Candy Cane Ice Cream- A Vegan Ice Cream Paradise</b><br />
<br />
The flavour of this ice cream (recipe<a href="http://veganicecream.blogspot.ca/2007/12/chocolate-candy-cane-ice-cream.html" target="_blank"> here</a>) was great. I loved the little chunks of candy cane. The texture was not my favourite. I think it was my error and not the recipe's because I've made similar recipe's before without the problem. It was just too soft, and even after days in the freezer it was melting within seconds of being served. However, it was still a nice holiday flavoured treat! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD9O1eO7fluAnM70t_y6TUyJu16WkmdEBU3fwov_Si6qBvZS50p67zcDdMwDASXkWO2MzjHirUGfmnjCl7rOHMdW4cEXTOgNvbqqr7tJ-OknJeqCfzKJViFYvYIqyyXcIm9Ugr/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD9O1eO7fluAnM70t_y6TUyJu16WkmdEBU3fwov_Si6qBvZS50p67zcDdMwDASXkWO2MzjHirUGfmnjCl7rOHMdW4cEXTOgNvbqqr7tJ-OknJeqCfzKJViFYvYIqyyXcIm9Ugr/s320/005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Split Pea Soup-The Vegan Table</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>French Bread-Food.com</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCYzVZjVFWwir_HJ8uSjXVeIpdzp8OLB95NLWvX953UVtm9IwVSPuR4JwK-C2PqgYgrptX608KTfG5f-evToX2Ht0II228KPc9h26rbOX0IueitfUfNhKLZtzEd02DTn31P-sV/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCYzVZjVFWwir_HJ8uSjXVeIpdzp8OLB95NLWvX953UVtm9IwVSPuR4JwK-C2PqgYgrptX608KTfG5f-evToX2Ht0II228KPc9h26rbOX0IueitfUfNhKLZtzEd02DTn31P-sV/s320/007.JPG" width="320" /></a> </div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I liked this soup. Very comforting. Nothing spectacular in terms of split pea soup but delicious and filling. I liked that there is no sauteeing of the veggies first. You just throw all the ingredients in the pot and simmer, which makes it a great soup to make in the slow cooker as well. I'll be making a few batches in my slow cooker to freeze before Baby arrives.<br />
<br />
I served the soup with homemade French bread using <a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/bread-machine-french-bread-dough-366169" target="_blank">this</a> recipe. The dough mixed and rose in my breadmaker and then all I had to do was roll it out, let it rise again and bake. There is nothing better than fresh baked bread!! I'd also like to make a few of these and freeze them. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnLuTDam1L4yVKzVwLDvRHNZ-xpbvH3TQ8q3Ma6CX7MwIy06esaEhwmnXZ2PbYH0xOTSTHa7p0bE0H044J2z6gyvC_MGgwl2n1IUjFuyo74xZWeUsVJtlBEtT4nO0AYPbkO8gl/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnLuTDam1L4yVKzVwLDvRHNZ-xpbvH3TQ8q3Ma6CX7MwIy06esaEhwmnXZ2PbYH0xOTSTHa7p0bE0H044J2z6gyvC_MGgwl2n1IUjFuyo74xZWeUsVJtlBEtT4nO0AYPbkO8gl/s320/008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<b>Santa's Favourite Christmas Bread- La Dolce Vegan</b><br />
<br />
And for my weekend baking, I made this delicious loaf. It's like banana bread but also has walnuts, coconut, oranges and chocolate chips. It also called for dried cherries but I didn't see any at the store and didn't want to make a separate trip to Bulk Barn. This is excellent as my afternoon snack with a cup of (decaf) coffee. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkslCNZpNO7av9eIpRFGSiKpfBiLs-_oHjvfBWcxitd5y1yCfI0KWDBQ3dTKFuZab7dG4oGWMEno6Xugz49XYPFrTb5MYz7zcVfmaeWvGTMOtXmzcyNrKJ4rTYlyfJR4OMmU5h/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkslCNZpNO7av9eIpRFGSiKpfBiLs-_oHjvfBWcxitd5y1yCfI0KWDBQ3dTKFuZab7dG4oGWMEno6Xugz49XYPFrTb5MYz7zcVfmaeWvGTMOtXmzcyNrKJ4rTYlyfJR4OMmU5h/s320/009.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I've made a meal plan for the upcoming week but with the holidays around the bend we shall see if I get around to posting! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-8375014304720947052012-12-02T21:03:00.001-05:002012-12-02T21:04:48.027-05:00Surprise!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHM1PGmPhJV-Pv88unqc8bGuwbn2wfZaAeNWbFbNiXAHFYAX4mzyZGi02Vc18rZZeVz7TEYkKDedQvb1R22cvaCSGf7twI9-PmsEONRctYZOxNSIujj5xWLEiKIn9KYd-54y74/s1600/announcement.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="82" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHM1PGmPhJV-Pv88unqc8bGuwbn2wfZaAeNWbFbNiXAHFYAX4mzyZGi02Vc18rZZeVz7TEYkKDedQvb1R22cvaCSGf7twI9-PmsEONRctYZOxNSIujj5xWLEiKIn9KYd-54y74/s320/announcement.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This time there's a good reason that I haven't posted in so long...first trimester fatigue!<br />
<br />
Billy and I are expecting our first child in late April. We are over the moon and anxiously preparing for the arrival of little Baby Vegan. I have been cooking as much as possible but not taking pictures. Some days its all I can do to throw together something semi-healthy for me and my passenger. Now that I'm into the second trimester my energy levels are much improved, so hopefully I'll be updating with some yummy food soon.<br />
<br />
Last night, I made a delicious veggie lasagna from Quick and Easy Vegan Comfort Food, and tonight I made a simple black bean soup from the same book.<br />
<br />
I hope to feature some posts about my vegan pregnancy in the coming months, but be patient with me...it's the holiday season after all :) I'll start by saying that my doctor knows I'm a vegan and has no issue whatsoever with it, especially when she saw my higher-than-average iron levels! So any concerned family members out there...I got this. I'm a smart cookie and would not do anything to harm this precious gift that we have been waiting for for so long.<br />
<br />
Lots of love!! Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-64857662586554398932012-08-20T18:18:00.002-04:002012-08-20T18:18:32.789-04:00DIY Monday: Gift basket and pillows I'm standing as a bridesmaid (matron?) for a dear friend this fall, and I volunteered to make a gift basket for her penny table at the stag and doe, to raise money for her wedding. I had a blast doing it! Next time you need an inexpensive, fun and thoughtful gift for a loved one, consider something like this! I got the basket and containers at Value Village and luckily had most of the supplies on hand from other DIY adventures. I thought I had a picture of the final product with ribbons and all but I guess not, so use your imagination! <br />
<br />
<b><u>Contents: </u></b><br />
Coconut Milk Shampoo<br />
Bath Salts<br />
Chocolate Hand Scrub<br />
Mint Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse<br />
Bath Soak<br />
Bath Fizzies (Not in this picture)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKd0DUl6sUcoi9LBXCqZgW_Y2GmaIy42yb-wjmecEgi3aWM6atwWdBWS4QUOJADxL7yEIavpRctBqXtVPnFwNiG4AkFRxLMWAqSAo2GoxYjnhgQJ7GXuUICMrdgDBqHJVkG7GJ/s1600/043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKd0DUl6sUcoi9LBXCqZgW_Y2GmaIy42yb-wjmecEgi3aWM6atwWdBWS4QUOJADxL7yEIavpRctBqXtVPnFwNiG4AkFRxLMWAqSAo2GoxYjnhgQJ7GXuUICMrdgDBqHJVkG7GJ/s320/043.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<u><b>Bath Fizzies</b></u><br />
<br />
The bath fizzies can be found<a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/271871/bath-fizzies" target="_blank"> here</a>. I had everything needed to make the fizzies but did buy a silicone "brownie bite" pan to make these so they would pop out easily without breaking. Plus, now I can make brownie bites ;). The pink ones are grapefruit scented and the green ones are mint. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_RVvmBorWxoycAm-fE0y5G5taa0ajHnzWBayRHOurF-xNQS6IFQZIXAAYXg54U2CJ8SQIKM9Yvhxjv7eQyR_TbMqBvt7KNgHRtgfTL0LDWs9DfQ_xtDZT2aiHAuWiiCB4yZ2T/s1600/042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_RVvmBorWxoycAm-fE0y5G5taa0ajHnzWBayRHOurF-xNQS6IFQZIXAAYXg54U2CJ8SQIKM9Yvhxjv7eQyR_TbMqBvt7KNgHRtgfTL0LDWs9DfQ_xtDZT2aiHAuWiiCB4yZ2T/s320/042.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi9tNy7N3eR9M0QHfFLmgwbfaXoStcDZSgej7ZwDnqfqhUMzGONWX2a713x9JAN79c3mYLcLKUQXDpBXjb-Kq7M0A8FQ2-7ped3Uz1YuEwZ38xB4mmgHRX1GvSFgEZ79BsBxYG/s1600/053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi9tNy7N3eR9M0QHfFLmgwbfaXoStcDZSgej7ZwDnqfqhUMzGONWX2a713x9JAN79c3mYLcLKUQXDpBXjb-Kq7M0A8FQ2-7ped3Uz1YuEwZ38xB4mmgHRX1GvSFgEZ79BsBxYG/s320/053.JPG" width="179" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3MfOaeGoFD-aJygnrk2mtsx8wjsnl_ExiSeTB1KgM_YSL3SgWxz09Wv0JEvSQNatGs3oFjoW0LSVkqj7AIve9QHJHVLXkSLxyvlgFpfSJLB2yf3zV4QVHf180EXeORdLLTzFA/s1600/052.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3MfOaeGoFD-aJygnrk2mtsx8wjsnl_ExiSeTB1KgM_YSL3SgWxz09Wv0JEvSQNatGs3oFjoW0LSVkqj7AIve9QHJHVLXkSLxyvlgFpfSJLB2yf3zV4QVHf180EXeORdLLTzFA/s320/052.JPG" width="179" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<u><b>Chocolate Hand Scrub </b></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've made this scrub for friends and family in the past and it is always a huge hit so it was a shoe-in for the basket. The recipe is <a href="http://www.52kitchenadventures.com/2011/12/16/homemade-gifts-for-a-chocolate-lover/" target="_blank">here</a>. I love how simple and yet effective it is. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB5m219wEcS4MzI9ydumnTteYy3e69te0pWXLQvGGvX4k7i2ZOjwKUnnPVFfPHJum1xD3zr8uY5YtYiMKNN8amLGEKZj0sLMrrKxj9IS_cyWW9RoU-b8lkjPkMIXXSMvb4vbdM/s1600/044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB5m219wEcS4MzI9ydumnTteYy3e69te0pWXLQvGGvX4k7i2ZOjwKUnnPVFfPHJum1xD3zr8uY5YtYiMKNN8amLGEKZj0sLMrrKxj9IS_cyWW9RoU-b8lkjPkMIXXSMvb4vbdM/s320/044.JPG" width="179" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<u><b>Bath Soak</b></u><br />
This is just a mix of safflower oil and coconut oil, to be poured into bath water for extra moisturizing. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2AM_QHLCdSQTSbvE8o4A419Jk-tWdwK5DLkNPTzsVbdDrImPG31v6s-V3V1kK4xb9wS3X-T4Zwy2dUaMoBJE9tKnukrMbjckWzrO3BORX68Va6EObGSCugXx_B9OIAMMVt-TY/s1600/045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2AM_QHLCdSQTSbvE8o4A419Jk-tWdwK5DLkNPTzsVbdDrImPG31v6s-V3V1kK4xb9wS3X-T4Zwy2dUaMoBJE9tKnukrMbjckWzrO3BORX68Va6EObGSCugXx_B9OIAMMVt-TY/s320/045.JPG" width="179" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<u><b> Reviving Bath Salts</b></u><br />
I loved the container for these with the cute little spoon. It was actually kind of hard to give away! This is very simple to make and I chose mint essential oil as the scent...The recipe is <a href="http://www.ellinee.com/blog/last-minute-mothers-day-gifts-part-2/" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_U9HxxDeZbDWwHhwlpwoiI7A8BR_OhoFFIJSxFkIY7xDA2_TntRoJDy2j1TehgJiFbjyNgcJYmRPysauT8crFQOoRaTDcqx6kkmf8hP3lx0EE-Z47q6W5VjwFLuUFEuIdR1eg/s1600/049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_U9HxxDeZbDWwHhwlpwoiI7A8BR_OhoFFIJSxFkIY7xDA2_TntRoJDy2j1TehgJiFbjyNgcJYmRPysauT8crFQOoRaTDcqx6kkmf8hP3lx0EE-Z47q6W5VjwFLuUFEuIdR1eg/s320/049.JPG" width="179" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRvbg-VzDG1GPtLNK9UwwBVDxQFE-naDsxjfC1zSdOEFAXHJOmKOyTsG49keZbV7Mew4t5PFixgRv7sCzk_VnvEJamOs1LDmW-Y51r12CjywLBvHLn0K6ko-GKW6e0zHhmiCSh/s1600/047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRvbg-VzDG1GPtLNK9UwwBVDxQFE-naDsxjfC1zSdOEFAXHJOmKOyTsG49keZbV7Mew4t5PFixgRv7sCzk_VnvEJamOs1LDmW-Y51r12CjywLBvHLn0K6ko-GKW6e0zHhmiCSh/s320/047.JPG" width="179" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<u><b>Homemade Coconut Milk Shampoo</b></u><br />
Coconut milk, castile soap, vitamin E oil and essential oil...that easy! If I ever want a break from my baking soda/apple cider vinegar hair routine, I will definitely try this! Check it out <a href="http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com/2012/03/homemade-coconut-milk-shampoo.html" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi8UKSvEl_vSLsMSDDytWAIJITyLdqqAHWmnqFr41eUho8ebA9qor_TlZjYeMyW8-FBxTunpU3jQIPQmDlvXSQAVlfxUV8nvTnXZ2WX7xHktdGY8fx3GzxRUDuUMhGx8VktwUt/s1600/048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi8UKSvEl_vSLsMSDDytWAIJITyLdqqAHWmnqFr41eUho8ebA9qor_TlZjYeMyW8-FBxTunpU3jQIPQmDlvXSQAVlfxUV8nvTnXZ2WX7xHktdGY8fx3GzxRUDuUMhGx8VktwUt/s320/048.JPG" width="179" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<b><u>Mint Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse</u></b><br />
Apple cider vinegar makes for a great hair rinse in lieu of conditioner...I love it! This mint variation is lovely and a great way to use up a bunch of fresh mint. <a href="http://mominmadison.blogspot.ca/2011/06/herbs-from-garden.html" target="_blank">Check it out!</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ZCnD8pXtFEgTJD_D5HmJ1rZ-IEDtyooTfaiahsrxT70KjLt43-MPJg-yB_ySZzIN6Rk3cIIYYLQHYi3b3Ua5RGn9bEWyu5t0Zxs9Vjc9eGj9MEq6cg30Q2mJsc6pBhhEJSx6/s1600/046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ZCnD8pXtFEgTJD_D5HmJ1rZ-IEDtyooTfaiahsrxT70KjLt43-MPJg-yB_ySZzIN6Rk3cIIYYLQHYi3b3Ua5RGn9bEWyu5t0Zxs9Vjc9eGj9MEq6cg30Q2mJsc6pBhhEJSx6/s320/046.JPG" width="179" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
======================================================================<br />
<br />
In other DIY happenings...I made pillow covers :) All I have is a portable sewing machine and it was still pretty easy. I used the tutorial <a href="http://www.piebirds.org/2011/01/how-to-make-throw-pillows.html" target="_blank">here</a>. (This is why I deny being any type of Martha Stewart, I copy everyone else lol). I got throw pillows at Value Village for 3.99 each since Michael's wanted 18$ for a pillow fill (yikes!). <br />
<br />
Icky pre-DIY pillow<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ZOvPSSB9H3Q659rBGUUCXBBuU4m-fvUGZd5AjHUvTsw0brXABT0PUFa2kJ_WNeO3kpnIKa2Qq9hKuLYWgeUL8qx1j54H8tWIW-mpRQITB_9ROe9pnWEcPe352VHxhYyA_nP5/s1600/059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ZOvPSSB9H3Q659rBGUUCXBBuU4m-fvUGZd5AjHUvTsw0brXABT0PUFa2kJ_WNeO3kpnIKa2Qq9hKuLYWgeUL8qx1j54H8tWIW-mpRQITB_9ROe9pnWEcPe352VHxhYyA_nP5/s320/059.JPG" width="179" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Post-DIY Pretty Gray Pillow :)<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHMPEh5KyCVKowDOfKp3L2QhseWarkj7UMMvO-Tv2mssYG7pkyh5ZiFjub7AkOwIk9hWA2bBjoijzLLRiYdAHM_f_UUPHIip1JU0vd21Z-bVSxjX-IWv8Xe-T8N9helcQJTaUO/s1600/065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHMPEh5KyCVKowDOfKp3L2QhseWarkj7UMMvO-Tv2mssYG7pkyh5ZiFjub7AkOwIk9hWA2bBjoijzLLRiYdAHM_f_UUPHIip1JU0vd21Z-bVSxjX-IWv8Xe-T8N9helcQJTaUO/s320/065.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Savings put me in a kissy mood! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN5qXR_TWuilGL0ZIzuGfmvQE0qeDMH__B6GJLqdj8mXqmMvKNRidPse-1sZ-VaXfwWibHzozjwVz9uUEUOFAh8gGJq6WR-8fDhgWYUfXWxCF7BmECppyDxvte8G77DkYfme1j/s1600/063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN5qXR_TWuilGL0ZIzuGfmvQE0qeDMH__B6GJLqdj8mXqmMvKNRidPse-1sZ-VaXfwWibHzozjwVz9uUEUOFAh8gGJq6WR-8fDhgWYUfXWxCF7BmECppyDxvte8G77DkYfme1j/s320/063.JPG" width="179" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnnitzmCKxQMhdjNvI8LaZIwyb4Sfhw1UBpX5Q9WFSJHBWe5t3pvKOL-kPB_oOrUmb1LLLaFAE6LgUv6dT81ACSJsuJf3wK56aO85VFdrw25N3D7jRDmjKduY7jMxYDvdFJXtU/s1600/066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-4337443723359415882012-08-12T00:59:00.001-04:002012-08-12T00:59:45.466-04:00Dear Zeppelin, <br />
<br />
I have to admit, when you first came into my life I was a little disappointed. When I signed up to be a foster parent for the cat shelter I had visions of getting a new kitten every few weeks to cuddle with until it got a new home. Instead they gave us you, an adult feral tabby that had been to a "cat whisperer" to adapt to your new life and wouldn't move, paralyzed with fear, for the first few days. I quickly learned the error of my ways.<br />
<br />
Even full of fear and distrustful, you couldn't say no to a good head scratching. If we ventured beyond your head however, we quickly got a slap telling us "Don't touch!". But within a few weeks you became the lovable, love-absorbing cat we know you as. Your purring earned you your name and always told me I was scratching just right...<br />
<br />
A terrible accident took you from us far too soon but you will be with us forever and I am sorry. <br />
<br />
Thank you for being a companion to Logan and for teaching Dill that cats are really the alpha dogs of the pack. <br />
<br />
Rest in peace my grey-eyed handsome boy,<br />
<br />
Me<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYhX4kHX2EbLucORJwdDCc8gVCL3VDRIibw-xdLOhC_BfMD4cbx7APVz03pmXhHN6r9vqhBKA1ctlQxgmKpUqeORjDYcjzGBSUSajjmqfS2ssjTcgba-SCw4_-kIZ3O3y0qT4o/s640/blogger-image-1915190457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYhX4kHX2EbLucORJwdDCc8gVCL3VDRIibw-xdLOhC_BfMD4cbx7APVz03pmXhHN6r9vqhBKA1ctlQxgmKpUqeORjDYcjzGBSUSajjmqfS2ssjTcgba-SCw4_-kIZ3O3y0qT4o/s640/blogger-image-1915190457.jpg" /></a></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-45943840159748392072012-07-17T14:20:00.003-04:002012-07-17T14:20:56.847-04:00Toronto Billy and I wanted to go to Toronto this year for our wedding anniversary. Basically, I asked Billy to find something fun for us to do. He did, but said that we would have to go in July rather than August because there was something there for a limited time, but it was a surprise. So we planned a three night stay with a bunch of activities and this one "surprise" activity. I ate tons of vegan food, we went to the <a href="http://www.ago.net/" target="_blank">AGO</a> to see the Picasso exhibit, we saw a Jays game, we perused the St. Lawrence market, we hung out and shopped with my sister who lives in Toronto AND.....<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsguVRLtCM4tYV4pcR2yVv-CTljTiC889YnXJ3vbzTQ9Ij3RaTspGo2LPofsvNVmlLx8E-w-oJ9AE7MGE3A1s6imfJplo1gY2C9kVkb9nPQtDIGxfs96Z2_SXbOy0GmAKQ-Yr6/s1600/043.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsguVRLtCM4tYV4pcR2yVv-CTljTiC889YnXJ3vbzTQ9Ij3RaTspGo2LPofsvNVmlLx8E-w-oJ9AE7MGE3A1s6imfJplo1gY2C9kVkb9nPQtDIGxfs96Z2_SXbOy0GmAKQ-Yr6/s320/043.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Billy brought me to see the broadway musical of my favourite movie of all time! Billy managed to keep it a secret until we were literally walking into the show and I saw the giant rose on stage. It was so sweet! We saw the Lion King last year and that was amazing, but I have to say that Beauty and the Beast is my new favourite. I laughed, I cried, and I even enjoyed the things that they added and changed from the movie. It was wildly entertaining. <br />
<br />
<b>Chocolate Chip Muffins- Vegan Brunch</b><br />
The recipe is for coffee chip muffins, but I just left out the coffee. These were our road trip snacks along with fresh fruit and crackers. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbPVYTo7OtEr7wRnmB13ylidPVfXN1L5grMKdsO9iYR_cm902-vmQpvK5Ie-7jPjS5Tr0YNKNsKY1cdizsc63xGkpsuCbsxjMmaWROAWMXCn0DRNfAqqF__Uh1cRdIyCy1KwaS/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbPVYTo7OtEr7wRnmB13ylidPVfXN1L5grMKdsO9iYR_cm902-vmQpvK5Ie-7jPjS5Tr0YNKNsKY1cdizsc63xGkpsuCbsxjMmaWROAWMXCn0DRNfAqqF__Uh1cRdIyCy1KwaS/s320/001.JPG" width="179" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
We stayed at a boutique hotel that we booked through hotwire. <a href="http://www.wellesleymanor.ca/" target="_blank">Wellesley Manor</a> was beautiful and in the perfect location in downtown Toronto, we will be staying there again. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6nK7iiTNj-0stxsR8lL6ZdMCIQelSBTrSjnZ85FCiBVR4XPsGvkwsHOBheKStZAuJRJV-zdOZZtu9Mf7VCdqjEWOR65CRC8UGo5TmiyTqYUKdFtC0baEu5dt95TYB2fNsiqe_/s1600/040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6nK7iiTNj-0stxsR8lL6ZdMCIQelSBTrSjnZ85FCiBVR4XPsGvkwsHOBheKStZAuJRJV-zdOZZtu9Mf7VCdqjEWOR65CRC8UGo5TmiyTqYUKdFtC0baEu5dt95TYB2fNsiqe_/s320/040.JPG" width="179" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
After we saw the Picasso exhibit, we still wanted to look at the general collection of art. But first, lunch! We walk around in Chinatown til we found a lovely thai restaurant with a vegetarian section. I forget the exact name but there are countless restaurants like this in TO. I had a rice noodle and steamed veggie dish that was very tasty. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7xM5vejrrLieftqlZ_LDx6pxo3gMRTzAnhWO2o_LfDx4bGty5g-weIP9vWfgI39oip_Ad3rsbdjGkJECpXmlIen5hr_pP5kdtXnYXgXpK1-zaqX54PZqGds9tkXY9TaKXF0dO/s1600/noodles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7xM5vejrrLieftqlZ_LDx6pxo3gMRTzAnhWO2o_LfDx4bGty5g-weIP9vWfgI39oip_Ad3rsbdjGkJECpXmlIen5hr_pP5kdtXnYXgXpK1-zaqX54PZqGds9tkXY9TaKXF0dO/s320/noodles.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Dinner before the show was at <a href="http://www.fressenrestaurant.com/" target="_blank">Fressen</a> (we also ate at Urban Herbivore at the Eaton Centre....yum!). Fressen is entirely vegan, and it is so nice to not have to worry about ingredients when you're out for dinner. Another bonus? I got to taste Billy's meal too :)<br />
<br />
Our appetizer was the fried plantain cakes. These were good, a bit spicy. Our first time having plantain. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLzUyQtLDWeZHn0T-REKS5EO-HU7k2-1Cta-w1IvQyCrelaJ0zXTCouPfCexi1g0LoSOrK5yYUwJpRqfl9AwQunkTdW6wyiPUbOuCcBqYOJC6o_mGPD5oE-KDOG2uJApOKEGBB/s1600/plantains.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLzUyQtLDWeZHn0T-REKS5EO-HU7k2-1Cta-w1IvQyCrelaJ0zXTCouPfCexi1g0LoSOrK5yYUwJpRqfl9AwQunkTdW6wyiPUbOuCcBqYOJC6o_mGPD5oE-KDOG2uJApOKEGBB/s320/plantains.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Billy got the black bean seitan sausage with veggies. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS_YQGaTNf46pch6Lkz1zY1UYgEANoZBYTv8s2nmX6hdD_Pt11GMMHjhLcSf5QzrBAFPQui5LfkXx6iVUoBAKlShqJg6dPWGN5Iqq67OuYjczKCl7ltdkHrNyYuuZv3Q3YXBxF/s1600/sausage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS_YQGaTNf46pch6Lkz1zY1UYgEANoZBYTv8s2nmX6hdD_Pt11GMMHjhLcSf5QzrBAFPQui5LfkXx6iVUoBAKlShqJg6dPWGN5Iqq67OuYjczKCl7ltdkHrNyYuuZv3Q3YXBxF/s320/sausage.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
And I got the battered tempeh with veggies. The veggies and the broth sauce they came in were fabulous. The tempeh was nice and crunchy but plain. I would've liked a tartar or creamy based sauce to dip it in. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPTwtwoYIpw62YTKyRV0Ae7u387QpR1AQZEH1d2HxxW3FUVXyko_CgpC1VmjeM9xTj48SYk9tESOmPZ4WIYhLGTAr4nYXrCmqNeXBMY0eD2p8hHI-CiPNzQ3Mb_JKDXhpplxTH/s1600/tempeh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPTwtwoYIpw62YTKyRV0Ae7u387QpR1AQZEH1d2HxxW3FUVXyko_CgpC1VmjeM9xTj48SYk9tESOmPZ4WIYhLGTAr4nYXrCmqNeXBMY0eD2p8hHI-CiPNzQ3Mb_JKDXhpplxTH/s320/tempeh.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />All in all, it was a fabulous trip. Almost all of our traveling is usually done to visit our families, so it was so nice to take some time for ourselves. I did not want for food. Sunday,we had breakfast at Fresh with my sister. I got the pancake platter: two pancakes, scrambled tofu with cheese and sausage patties. God, it was filling! We had also wanted to go to Poutini's, a poutine restaurant that serves a vegan poutine, but there was a downpour and construction that kept us from getting there. Next time!<br />
<br />
<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-20734987590984827012012-07-11T14:48:00.002-04:002012-07-11T14:48:57.554-04:00Magical Mint<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Loving, loving, loving summer! With the heat, comes the diminished desire to cook things in the oven so I've been having cold things like smoothies and taco salad, but there has been some cooking going on. I went to see Magic Mike this weekend with the girls, and we decided to get together before hand on my deck for some drinks and snacks...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My signature drink for the evening was the mojito! We have tons of mint growing in our yard (hint: if you want to grow mint, grow it in planters, or it will infest your yard!), so this was a great way to use it up. First, I made mint-infused simple syrup.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Mint-Infused Simple Syrup:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 cup water</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 cup sugar</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
handful of mint leaves</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Stir the water and sugar together in a pot and bring to a boil. Stir for about a minute, til sugar dissolves, then remove from heat. Add in the mint leaves and allow to sit for an hour. The mint adds a nice little touch to the syrup. I prefer making cold drinks (mojitos, lemonade) with simple syrup rather than granular sugar because then you don't have crunchy bits of sugar in your drink. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnvs4UXhD182z0JU2m1tIT5ylIKp94OlEunPyi5ld8M_uY46DebvebYR5w4thn3rZeUrzVQhgaXwSow_gEL_H-vBadJEGPQ7i_OVh3mmHA6qxdKqYaFTQT-Fx_JDsdidyU4_CX/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnvs4UXhD182z0JU2m1tIT5ylIKp94OlEunPyi5ld8M_uY46DebvebYR5w4thn3rZeUrzVQhgaXwSow_gEL_H-vBadJEGPQ7i_OVh3mmHA6qxdKqYaFTQT-Fx_JDsdidyU4_CX/s320/009.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
And to keep the calories low, I also made a sugar free mint simple syrup using sucralose instead. Its not as good, it doesn't thicken as much as the regular syrup, but once you're one or two mojitos in, you don't really notice ;) Can't wait to make this for my sister in law!<br />
<br />
Then it was time to assemble the mojitos (sorry no pictures of this fabulous drink!)<br />
<br />
In a glass, pour 1 oz. of simple syrup and add a small handful of mint leaves. Muddle together (mush the leaves). Add crushed ice, 1.5 oz of rum, the juice of half a lime and top with club soda. Garnish with a straw, a lime wedge and some mint leaves.<br />
<br />
These were so yummy and refreshing on a hot evening....and definitely made Magic Mike seem better than it really was (what were all those scenes with people talking???? :P)<br />
<br />
Now, I'm a good hostess. I don't booze up my guests without providing something to snack on too! I served fruit, veggies and hummus and I also roasted three heads of garlic to spread onto toasted baguette rounds. Mmmmm. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh30kW2h-TMmwkErnZct1MT19etustEF21yCU9YLQkuo3AfGd7P-Wl-EzOfe8RKTot21tDkrCQvd8eWHIRqDZ6gvhruKEp1HYt6Hq-jdM7YllFK1UnFSFaJ_RiWJ4sFL6mHEV86/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh30kW2h-TMmwkErnZct1MT19etustEF21yCU9YLQkuo3AfGd7P-Wl-EzOfe8RKTot21tDkrCQvd8eWHIRqDZ6gvhruKEp1HYt6Hq-jdM7YllFK1UnFSFaJ_RiWJ4sFL6mHEV86/s320/010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I also made up a little goody bag for my friends. Since I've got so much mint, I made a bouquet of it for each girl, along with a handwritten booklet of some great uses for mint. They included tea/iced tea, air freshener, pore reducer, foot scrub and a link to some recipes. As I make these things myself I will blog about them!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZZ6E1kGwAcT0KCNi88zKpskxieEgkI-0RXWFf40kasLXkfOgsZs6pj4tZF7jsCTmPMv1vv6Rgj-eAGeAPfc5MdGqmmf7BP4YdPxXi0YtIa9tQcvVq_xHm9W6z7gi6CK33QWTl/s1600/011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZZ6E1kGwAcT0KCNi88zKpskxieEgkI-0RXWFf40kasLXkfOgsZs6pj4tZF7jsCTmPMv1vv6Rgj-eAGeAPfc5MdGqmmf7BP4YdPxXi0YtIa9tQcvVq_xHm9W6z7gi6CK33QWTl/s320/011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<b>Rosemary Lentils over Polenta- Supermarket Vegan </b><br />
This is a very tasty dish...and it made me like polenta. Billy liked it too. It's a very visually appealing meal and feels fancy when you're eating it. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFDr9cP9Yzujy7Zg_99LDW_DUMQ7wPH3ZOezaAmgWjuvKLD1LCavtBQjfP8TidncRfYb314Ydp-EDc-QkMLXLhM-1vs5rrZf_R1eXm1eFujTithes73P6WSCSACJKjFurKmHwL/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFDr9cP9Yzujy7Zg_99LDW_DUMQ7wPH3ZOezaAmgWjuvKLD1LCavtBQjfP8TidncRfYb314Ydp-EDc-QkMLXLhM-1vs5rrZf_R1eXm1eFujTithes73P6WSCSACJKjFurKmHwL/s320/012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Look what I found at Value Village! An old popcorn popper! I've bought some from WalMart before but they always break :( They just don't make things the way they used to. This thing looks like it was made in the 80's and it still works great. I'm a popcorn fiend, as in: I have it as my evening snack almost daily. I was popping kernels in brown bags in the microwave, but a popper is less wasteful and makes delicious popcorn without the use of oil. I paid 4$ for it. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgruA5NR7UWM8ecMbqVqOP-4xCr3SeQT6X9NCalSpr-8sraZp9mZvaoW5XLHZ4wh49Q9FA7M_NdSlQFXFAfVd8Kpl7mspU6FCWtMqnpRJ6ntnDzJancoD7FGdCeGPQdHNvbcR5Y/s1600/013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgruA5NR7UWM8ecMbqVqOP-4xCr3SeQT6X9NCalSpr-8sraZp9mZvaoW5XLHZ4wh49Q9FA7M_NdSlQFXFAfVd8Kpl7mspU6FCWtMqnpRJ6ntnDzJancoD7FGdCeGPQdHNvbcR5Y/s320/013.JPG" width="179" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
More cold food, since its 29 degrees today...leftover grilled veggies with guacamole on a whole wheat tortilla. Yum!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWhHYVUs9HFPTRJ0AF1WsxBDWMeyw38e2HOW5qksF38EliRKLoup-x-8rdT5F9bF4ledqwJEeTEIFEj6kJNaPxArCeQ99VTuqNzSedOto9S16JTf9Gy0nmL_aHrIbBE_lbMQVj/s1600/022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWhHYVUs9HFPTRJ0AF1WsxBDWMeyw38e2HOW5qksF38EliRKLoup-x-8rdT5F9bF4ledqwJEeTEIFEj6kJNaPxArCeQ99VTuqNzSedOto9S16JTf9Gy0nmL_aHrIbBE_lbMQVj/s320/022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-58168778010178614812012-07-04T11:25:00.000-04:002012-07-04T11:25:36.004-04:00Summer Time!School's out and that means I now have a lot of time on my hands! So hopefully, my blog posts can be a little more regular. I'm aiming for once a week.<br />
<br />
<b>Cinnamon Oat Pancakes</b><br />
I decided to make breakfast for dinner one night when we were running low on food. I made these about 3-4 inches big and froze the leftovers. They were great to just pop in the toaster for a quick breakfast or snack. The recipe is <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/334877/cinnamon-oat-pancakes" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN1WHke31HLgOVpW-oR-My2ksMl9GmhLOPmBSz4wxPS-uhYpV0Z08a52aes3RhlPTMjYKFFTndcyzV5CWRViFBDo9xbcoYR6bLGv87ZsSD5_KRu2HGlzsRn7BkeXPRZb4WL3tP/s1600/july+4+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN1WHke31HLgOVpW-oR-My2ksMl9GmhLOPmBSz4wxPS-uhYpV0Z08a52aes3RhlPTMjYKFFTndcyzV5CWRViFBDo9xbcoYR6bLGv87ZsSD5_KRu2HGlzsRn7BkeXPRZb4WL3tP/s320/july+4+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<b> Pan Seared Tofu Scallops with Basil Cream Sauce over Linguine- Veganize This!</b><br />
The recipes in this book are such a mouthful! This was a really nice meal. I absolutely loved the way the tofu was prepared (marinaded in a seafood broth, then pan seared in Earth Balance Butter til crispy). I will be using it again. It felt really fancy :)<br />
<em><b></b></em><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg28ROibVyW6-MbY7F1_Tbzmnxq51S4RZ4sxTJ7fgaY3xPZAvztdp0p5V1LGkmKUD5CDZnpuIysREyofAnlv9byzieTh2EQmn2IBW4SltA8WSL3wgp7fyZKaJT7QScdXFmp93WU/s1600/july+4+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg28ROibVyW6-MbY7F1_Tbzmnxq51S4RZ4sxTJ7fgaY3xPZAvztdp0p5V1LGkmKUD5CDZnpuIysREyofAnlv9byzieTh2EQmn2IBW4SltA8WSL3wgp7fyZKaJT7QScdXFmp93WU/s320/july+4+004.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b> Tempeh Sausage Breakfast Squares- Vegan Brunch</b><br />
I wanted to make a warm breakfast item and use up the puff pastry in my freezer, so this recipe was perfect. I used the maple tempeh bacon strips, and its sauteed with red peppers and seasonings and then baked on puff pastry squares. Delicious! You can find the recipe <a href="http://www.thedailygreen.com/healthy-eating/recipes/vegan-pastry-puffs-recipe" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfIXisTs1-kvSGsVvDJCPRNe9sOZB8hwMt3VsIe5XN0gXMkrrRWdnVnf8DNGba34nw4Kmvnc1NThmCN9wzPmetces5OcvDtELvq227I-nTq-Cs9SkFgcC3yG4LBhhAxJqJE88o/s1600/july+4+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfIXisTs1-kvSGsVvDJCPRNe9sOZB8hwMt3VsIe5XN0gXMkrrRWdnVnf8DNGba34nw4Kmvnc1NThmCN9wzPmetces5OcvDtELvq227I-nTq-Cs9SkFgcC3yG4LBhhAxJqJE88o/s320/july+4+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>Tomato, Basil and Arugula Bruschetta- The Vegan Table</b><br />
<br />
Billy likes to have a BBQ night every once in a while, and who am I to complain if it means less work for me?!? So we had barbecued meatless chicken (grilled to perfection) with bruschetta and fiddleheads. The bruschetta is fabulous. It's a great way to sneak some greens in. And it held up pretty well as leftovers. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipTh8yTb07jdBq3-E_dSBD9vAF-pHtX_4qCvjeIylhi2KzJVPaiYr6vxSBvghU7MCawJzmY5H8B1gLCkWpSyFh8KMaWazuIe3qSF6FCdU3PebFnWnlATGaATzPBVHfwojZxYOG/s1600/july+4+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipTh8yTb07jdBq3-E_dSBD9vAF-pHtX_4qCvjeIylhi2KzJVPaiYr6vxSBvghU7MCawJzmY5H8B1gLCkWpSyFh8KMaWazuIe3qSF6FCdU3PebFnWnlATGaATzPBVHfwojZxYOG/s320/july+4+011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_gGoRKotBRwcv1AlZC7afdUvEUIoXBo3RjHzCYiYZJvpinPn7LSUUuLE9ecNS5KPmYvRX99DjC6hW4UpQvzviDRe2O0Yi7GyUUV7IH3lLYNzFXx4suNkaCOIx-8Wr2yhjwTIT/s1600/july+4+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_gGoRKotBRwcv1AlZC7afdUvEUIoXBo3RjHzCYiYZJvpinPn7LSUUuLE9ecNS5KPmYvRX99DjC6hW4UpQvzviDRe2O0Yi7GyUUV7IH3lLYNzFXx4suNkaCOIx-8Wr2yhjwTIT/s320/july+4+014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Lemon Pepper Tofu- Vegan Brunch </b><br />
These tofu slices are really simple to make. I sliced mine thinner than the recipe calls for, just as a personal preference. They are rubbed with oil and lemon pepper and then baked. I had mine on toasted tomato sandwiches.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhICohnMG7wSfWv3VbvYYabBIBCflMNCUjDAFlnI5rx3GI6FDu6BxtIcUsTBrb65ltk9TSRosMFe_-NeJsJ_155abGgNARQ2Nvoo-1Pce1Wi6yDKx6y2dNAto6_RZ46dfHnaaw9/s1600/july+4+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhICohnMG7wSfWv3VbvYYabBIBCflMNCUjDAFlnI5rx3GI6FDu6BxtIcUsTBrb65ltk9TSRosMFe_-NeJsJ_155abGgNARQ2Nvoo-1Pce1Wi6yDKx6y2dNAto6_RZ46dfHnaaw9/s320/july+4+016.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk5RBlizFxW5MT5EZO-kkRz4cglHXc11q_QzMMhWuLcBncEcm3hN5LSWKvVZF4tU3WqiciPd04fC8FfI_zzrMml_DStV6SfVAwkbLeAxPQiuhf3oQNzuo5q7dxke1DZQvHe3fi/s1600/july+4+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk5RBlizFxW5MT5EZO-kkRz4cglHXc11q_QzMMhWuLcBncEcm3hN5LSWKvVZF4tU3WqiciPd04fC8FfI_zzrMml_DStV6SfVAwkbLeAxPQiuhf3oQNzuo5q7dxke1DZQvHe3fi/s320/july+4+017.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>DIY- Father's Day </b><br />
I guess I should have posted this yesterday on my DIY post. For our dads this year, I made homemade rubs for barbecuing. I know that the end result is not vegan, but my part of it is! :P I made greek rub, brown sugar rub, and all purpose spice rub. A quick google search will give you tons of recipes if you're interested. I'd love to try the greek rub on some President's Choice Meatless Chicken. I got the magnetic spice containers at Bulk Barn. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhZ5ZV-2TlLsXMc-QLdVxi17NTPI9skIwcb_ChvYt09-J35O0Y8H3IHW8dQEancQ4mcH3SwZzjZjaEW4pZKQynpwP_QtmrnjLpAQIGKzqX-O_YGYSiYl7C6U21cb7xiesV3SD0/s1600/july+4+018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhZ5ZV-2TlLsXMc-QLdVxi17NTPI9skIwcb_ChvYt09-J35O0Y8H3IHW8dQEancQ4mcH3SwZzjZjaEW4pZKQynpwP_QtmrnjLpAQIGKzqX-O_YGYSiYl7C6U21cb7xiesV3SD0/s320/july+4+018.JPG" width="179" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6iikuKYsfJ-B7HwLb-InE3mj9v17ukX2XntPsnooMP1Yfp9Tnc0U9jv7t8m17JcBiNoHIyKxu2XR9M1vU5NvxFejfs0DYyX2n-RHnBYktWg0D7BEK652oSPpr9hyh45-Avj72/s1600/july+4+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6iikuKYsfJ-B7HwLb-InE3mj9v17ukX2XntPsnooMP1Yfp9Tnc0U9jv7t8m17JcBiNoHIyKxu2XR9M1vU5NvxFejfs0DYyX2n-RHnBYktWg0D7BEK652oSPpr9hyh45-Avj72/s320/july+4+019.JPG" width="179" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Strawberry Shortcake- Skinny Bitch UEC</b><br />
This consists of a sweet biscuit layered with sweetened strawberries and Rice Whip. I liked it, Billy loved it (I think I got 2 of the 9 or so). I wouldn't say it's super desserty as the biscuit kind of comes out like a pancake, but its a nice light end to a meal. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1K-JsCKPtv1WqQvsWBHLpi6tU5AvIRHWDaoCG0EJd6MRX85YONPCeTcuRzUvNuxiMYGHYYQmMZ0kEWZaMntruejdfbcOeKr_JTuo0_z2KYPV_4ZMsBYjjULxYEPE4qkMCyc19/s1600/july+4+024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1K-JsCKPtv1WqQvsWBHLpi6tU5AvIRHWDaoCG0EJd6MRX85YONPCeTcuRzUvNuxiMYGHYYQmMZ0kEWZaMntruejdfbcOeKr_JTuo0_z2KYPV_4ZMsBYjjULxYEPE4qkMCyc19/s320/july+4+024.JPG" width="179" /></a></div>
<b>Santa Claus Melon</b><br />
When I saw the name of this melon at the store yesterday, I had to buy it! You prepare it the same way you would honeydew or cantaloupe. And its very similar to those melons. It's mellow and very sweet and juicy. Very refreshing on a hot day! (It beats the freezies I used to have instead, which I have since banned from the house lol)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1YYdrSjdDVMTzVh8UY0A9mwZFPhQe8pA5T42I-aSq-H6nN9S13yy9SNl3FI7Yy-2pjVeuuBwXYfWvCVlxZSlGnjSH6EwRVjL1r8b5hm8hnpf6FFwEH-94J8-GP9Vke50P08dU/s1600/july+4+057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1YYdrSjdDVMTzVh8UY0A9mwZFPhQe8pA5T42I-aSq-H6nN9S13yy9SNl3FI7Yy-2pjVeuuBwXYfWvCVlxZSlGnjSH6EwRVjL1r8b5hm8hnpf6FFwEH-94J8-GP9Vke50P08dU/s320/july+4+057.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Tempeh No-Meat Loaf- Skinny Bitch UEC </b><br />
I followed the variation in the cookbook, to cook them in muffin tins for individual portions. Like most vegan meatloafs I've made, it doesn't really hold up and ends up crumbling, but it was still very tasty, especially served with ketchup. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8n2f-JKUYyLDIx91hZteQZDAqaLgWeRMn7vXAX7S4OVX7K12CjYhD9IvCSld3bwrAa-HzCx_WVxR-X3QDjv5Kv55HE7lkxx8VhxX9lD3uB_X1RjTNmbA9PB3FT33WYwMiTabD/s1600/july+4+058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8n2f-JKUYyLDIx91hZteQZDAqaLgWeRMn7vXAX7S4OVX7K12CjYhD9IvCSld3bwrAa-HzCx_WVxR-X3QDjv5Kv55HE7lkxx8VhxX9lD3uB_X1RjTNmbA9PB3FT33WYwMiTabD/s320/july+4+058.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I am off to the library to stock up on some summer reads! :DMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-62767600838354138542012-07-03T13:35:00.001-04:002012-07-03T13:35:43.395-04:00DIY mondays: homemade fragrance oilYes, a day late but we were out of town for the Canada Day long weekend. In this instalment of DIY Mondays I will show you how to make your own fragrance oil for reed diffusers. <br />
I have three or four diffusers around the house. They are a great way to add some light scent and decor to your home. However, when all the oil has evaporated what do you do? Based on the popularity of these things I am guessing many people throw them out and get new ones. I have tried to find just the oil refills before but with no luck. Internet to the rescue! <br />
<br />
Here is what you will need:<br />
-Safflower oil (grocery store)<br />
-Vodka (I used my standard Stoli but if you dont keep vodka on hand buy the cheap stuff)<br />
-essential oil or combination of oils of your choice (I bought mine at the health store, mmmm grapefruit)<br />
<br />
For a small container like the one pictured, fill it up halfway with the safflower oil. Then add 20-25 drops of essential oil and 1 teaspoon of the vodka. Stir it all around and add the diffuser sticks. <br />
<br />
I just finished making mine so I will update later on how it worked. Grapefruit isnt really a strong scent so I am thinking this will lightly scent the house with citrusy yumminess :)<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVSM7Xlb3hNqUQuqBuC54uoTAC3tueAEdJoT9ablSnJg1EH-KtANaaaQ6KC1pjGaotNqHsjov28H50bOrpnKsDPSU6L0QCQfyrOMUPnIsc40pfMuG_RZQ3XY5GnO2O9dgTkcho/s640/blogger-image--1076198586.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVSM7Xlb3hNqUQuqBuC54uoTAC3tueAEdJoT9ablSnJg1EH-KtANaaaQ6KC1pjGaotNqHsjov28H50bOrpnKsDPSU6L0QCQfyrOMUPnIsc40pfMuG_RZQ3XY5GnO2O9dgTkcho/s640/blogger-image--1076198586.jpg" /></a></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-89588061550538694712012-06-13T21:30:00.001-04:002012-06-13T21:30:12.570-04:00So my last post was done from my ipad as is this one. I prefer blogging from my computer as the layout is better than using the Blogger app and I can upload pictures from my camera. They are much clearer that way. That being said I think I will still use the app occasiobally to stay on top of things so that when I do a full post it doesn't involve twenty pictures! <br />
<br />
Dinner tonight was penne with fresh veggies and tofurkey Italian sausage from The Vegan Table. Mmmm it hit the spot and was very filling.<br />
<br />
We have two rhubarb plants and they are already huge so I took advantage and made some rhubarb ice cream (The Vegan Scoop). Its very nice but next time I think I will add strawberries.<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiim7zVUuTB9RlNWAwd_vhIX2cBt_kLpHWZNy34k_fxtB1S5XAULwtq1Mj5yHBaftVg7b7L4KJdan-xrx1wyrXo721Lt6ocvygDSx3i3KxhbZYLhJIxcI5wjkxoxrbDTggzY7DY/s640/blogger-image--1061646973.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiim7zVUuTB9RlNWAwd_vhIX2cBt_kLpHWZNy34k_fxtB1S5XAULwtq1Mj5yHBaftVg7b7L4KJdan-xrx1wyrXo721Lt6ocvygDSx3i3KxhbZYLhJIxcI5wjkxoxrbDTggzY7DY/s640/blogger-image--1061646973.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmW0NFo9MUKmgo5zgMU_ns9UbihZ2QCnNj_pdwIcMYXJjsLTD9pqPg5VMqkX1g-jGK63UHALNZ_VJIbrESLeQWCJh6LlwXuYCHqfFVeHcZHgMRj1Wt1qFNC7tCVE9icWhIqAFx/s640/blogger-image-149692116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmW0NFo9MUKmgo5zgMU_ns9UbihZ2QCnNj_pdwIcMYXJjsLTD9pqPg5VMqkX1g-jGK63UHALNZ_VJIbrESLeQWCJh6LlwXuYCHqfFVeHcZHgMRj1Wt1qFNC7tCVE9icWhIqAFx/s640/blogger-image-149692116.jpg" /></a></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-28338717455588707542012-06-10T20:08:00.001-04:002012-06-10T20:08:44.760-04:00Sunday BBQNow that Blogger has an app I wanted to try a post from my iPad. Billy had a softball tourney this weekend so now we are relaxing and having some BBQ for dinner!<br />
We are having grilled corn and grilled veggie fajitas. The corn was grilled in its husks. Should be good!<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhL_vovPfL5hyphenhyphenbz5tJghsQV-EQ5xVXd4z2jFI6da86Zr7qykdAvsyG7jw-JFGqNWkbjhMZ8pzl083ZbXDLK0LH2DZthtOIDZYUZPvKd9ZpOnAgi8wc8MOFXBFeP_0XUBNDz4la/s640/blogger-image-1737707492.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhL_vovPfL5hyphenhyphenbz5tJghsQV-EQ5xVXd4z2jFI6da86Zr7qykdAvsyG7jw-JFGqNWkbjhMZ8pzl083ZbXDLK0LH2DZthtOIDZYUZPvKd9ZpOnAgi8wc8MOFXBFeP_0XUBNDz4la/s640/blogger-image-1737707492.jpg" /></a></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-21365834120205716622012-06-04T21:14:00.003-04:002012-06-04T21:14:55.950-04:00DIY MondaysSince I've been experimenting with do-it-yourself household products, I thought I'd start a <b><i>DIY Mondays</i></b> series for whenever I discover something new that I'd like to share. There are many reasons that one might want to make their own cleaning and beauty supplies: environmental concerns, health, money...At the moment, I am doing it to cut down on the grocery bill, but I love how eco friendly it is...and easy!<br />
<br />
The first homemade product I tried was toothpaste. At first, I tried a basic baking soda recipe but it was very salty. Then I found a recipe that was smoother and had a nicer mouth feel. The recipe can be found <a href="http://greenliving.nationalgeographic.com/homemade-organic-toothpaste-3249.html" target="_blank">here</a>. All you need is vegetable glycerin, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide and essential oil (I use peppermint). For a sweeter paste, you can also use stevia extract. This is super easy and quick to mix up and cleans great. I haven't bothered to calculate how much a batch costs, but I know its much cheaper than store bought vegan toothpaste, which can run upwards of seven dollars. For a nice fresh aftertaste, I rinse with homemade mouthwash which consists of water mixed with a few drops of tea tree oil.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilSb8Wp96wF0gZPbYnhZJKXe_8S-gWEk9lNxCcfXVXLrxp2m5Y6HYxr3jLoR6ZeB3PL-CBTP80LlfbLUJDX9QfoE4wu6gRTh-tBdzgXGMYTK1FpHtlPUAyjXlNvvQVGHfDbQ1i/s1600/camp+may+2012+074.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilSb8Wp96wF0gZPbYnhZJKXe_8S-gWEk9lNxCcfXVXLrxp2m5Y6HYxr3jLoR6ZeB3PL-CBTP80LlfbLUJDX9QfoE4wu6gRTh-tBdzgXGMYTK1FpHtlPUAyjXlNvvQVGHfDbQ1i/s320/camp+may+2012+074.JPG" width="320" /> </a><br />
<br />
Next, I experimented with homemade laundry detergent. I was having a hard time (and wasting many hours) finding a DIY detergent that didn't contain borax and was vegan. Then, one day while visiting my parents and flipping through a Chatelaine magazine, I came across an article that had a recipe for it. Its safe for high efficiency machines and since switching over we haven't noticed a difference from store bought soap.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmjZOO7ZDHSYQ1Y4G-h02lLYeGK0RPbL1cx2Fld8WhIchx-1m6aU-Qx3JyFNeLVf9S9yu5o3sAPPqvHQq2-ScvpqhP64BUBSEx9fAjx6m1lBJ7oFvnyPmWQ1W6ETEdR13ypL3h/s1600/camp+may+2012+072.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmjZOO7ZDHSYQ1Y4G-h02lLYeGK0RPbL1cx2Fld8WhIchx-1m6aU-Qx3JyFNeLVf9S9yu5o3sAPPqvHQq2-ScvpqhP64BUBSEx9fAjx6m1lBJ7oFvnyPmWQ1W6ETEdR13ypL3h/s320/camp+may+2012+072.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmsM0YNEMpPqQo5mEnuAoDjlk_6-3f_IKDPjz7bsR5fHcUFjibo7uN5PfBUaIcyh2HXKAbvV2SVeTFE7mIhpMd9qNRglpn7qAZ27lWZix-0scsxjpml91rbhyfZwSbZ0vwr3hP/s1600/camp+may+2012+071.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmsM0YNEMpPqQo5mEnuAoDjlk_6-3f_IKDPjz7bsR5fHcUFjibo7uN5PfBUaIcyh2HXKAbvV2SVeTFE7mIhpMd9qNRglpn7qAZ27lWZix-0scsxjpml91rbhyfZwSbZ0vwr3hP/s320/camp+may+2012+071.JPG" width="320" /></a> <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI3VvMfyW8olA_7Qdw8zSu_ZUpVyBbx_vB_x7FiPhxPya_o9gmlxQ59524DoKb3pKRqmw-VCr2FGcSKJZ3ZDH9qvxiuL1WymyQMOwfIFE0wqGPG7_uOnRS6l_J10HDx0vdUyRB/s1600/camp+may+2012+073.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI3VvMfyW8olA_7Qdw8zSu_ZUpVyBbx_vB_x7FiPhxPya_o9gmlxQ59524DoKb3pKRqmw-VCr2FGcSKJZ3ZDH9qvxiuL1WymyQMOwfIFE0wqGPG7_uOnRS6l_J10HDx0vdUyRB/s320/camp+may+2012+073.JPG" width="320" /> </a><br />
<br />
The baking soda and coarse salt get mixed into the hot water and then you pour in the Castile soap. Voila! I don't have a pot big enough to hold 7L of water at a time, so I make a half batch and it fills two laundry containers and lasts a long time. Again, I haven't yet calculate how much this costs per load, but its much cheaper than vegan, eco-friendly store bought detergents. Castile soap seemed really expensive at first (17$ for the big bottle) but I've used it for many things and its still not half empty. I've used it as shampoo, dish soap and even tooth paste in a pinch!<br />
<br />
I also made a DIY dishwasher detergent, but it was not successful, it left a scum. If anyone has had success with a recipe that does not contain borax, please share!<br />
<br />
On to the food!<br />
I made Billy his favourite type of lasagna...far from healthy. Just meat sauce (Yves ground round) layered with Daiya cheese...fantastic!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX66T2J7SA24pXUoM4Lx1DFo7sgP582cUYKab47jgt7ssMDLifFMZmS99PkTk4NZ1oHzR5EkvFGwCZiplWODpeZo4Ix7Mnk_V0aecfbcKkGr_YlYDSP_7tKwJtb2xR7nFXA1bn/s1600/camp+may+2012+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX66T2J7SA24pXUoM4Lx1DFo7sgP582cUYKab47jgt7ssMDLifFMZmS99PkTk4NZ1oHzR5EkvFGwCZiplWODpeZo4Ix7Mnk_V0aecfbcKkGr_YlYDSP_7tKwJtb2xR7nFXA1bn/s320/camp+may+2012+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We went to my parents' camp a few weekends ago to help prepare for their renovations. We arrived for a late dinner and I made <a href="http://www.madejustright.com/post/vegan-chicken-dumplings" target="_blank">"chicken" and dumplings</a>. Yum! Comfort food at its best....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL16PDlfRaLFuKUK2MBebvYHg2nqYRgG6v6gRpVtxlTfhEaJpJLhEKp_4AjheUtE-QtGPDu_Ju19nLKq4sP6cQu4Y81W5ixSWumu4y87_UIONnpTYo2vObYmbhn6VJlfyHMS7m/s1600/camp+may+2012+024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL16PDlfRaLFuKUK2MBebvYHg2nqYRgG6v6gRpVtxlTfhEaJpJLhEKp_4AjheUtE-QtGPDu_Ju19nLKq4sP6cQu4Y81W5ixSWumu4y87_UIONnpTYo2vObYmbhn6VJlfyHMS7m/s320/camp+may+2012+024.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Me and Dill on a cuddle break!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU02MD5Le6IVgwnywBoQd7EUAzYJzx2mVLMj-44uHM2bjT4IQfMtdr6M2eDuL6GLGhfg2A86EbgD4SkF_Sm1EwTd-ouKXsgZFP4v1ba25GjAPiYWwzuaqOKPpJRArKRMN0w_K-/s1600/camp+may+2012+030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU02MD5Le6IVgwnywBoQd7EUAzYJzx2mVLMj-44uHM2bjT4IQfMtdr6M2eDuL6GLGhfg2A86EbgD4SkF_Sm1EwTd-ouKXsgZFP4v1ba25GjAPiYWwzuaqOKPpJRArKRMN0w_K-/s320/camp+may+2012+030.JPG" width="179" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<b>Peanut Pasta Salad with Fried Tempeh Bits- Skinny Bitch UEC</b><br />
<br />
Make this! Its so delicious. The recipe is posted <a href="http://www.madejustright.com/post/peanut-butter-pasta-with-fried-tempeh-bits-from-the-skinny-bitch" target="_blank">here</a>, so make it, and when you love it, go out and buy this book. I'm sad that I'm running out of new things to make from this book.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmSXqUHxRROs5S8sEkhgKoMUF_UelhrWMjc4NOfRlMSUgGIvmQdVlv2_N9WNW0Y7Bg1M2yLgkbG_BAxpXvi66C2IXnHVgfLrdiEk3z-uEoEB1w1haV86BM3hLDkI9Pii-c6yjv/s1600/camp+may+2012+061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmSXqUHxRROs5S8sEkhgKoMUF_UelhrWMjc4NOfRlMSUgGIvmQdVlv2_N9WNW0Y7Bg1M2yLgkbG_BAxpXvi66C2IXnHVgfLrdiEk3z-uEoEB1w1haV86BM3hLDkI9Pii-c6yjv/s320/camp+may+2012+061.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Greek Style Chickpeas and Spinach with Rice- Supermarket vegan </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
A simple and quick weeknight meal. There's a nice lemon flavour in this.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvBFkUEcmC2xcxLkvqSfVNUtXUAdRBUttn_yPB07pzpN0G6r7JGk60RM81f3PTNgNsHqxk0t_8rNyZAs5gAkL1O6qRojPPW7RYQlIPWJHsli6W56BubNlXgSAKqTTxuqpH7Nqu/s1600/camp+may+2012+062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvBFkUEcmC2xcxLkvqSfVNUtXUAdRBUttn_yPB07pzpN0G6r7JGk60RM81f3PTNgNsHqxk0t_8rNyZAs5gAkL1O6qRojPPW7RYQlIPWJHsli6W56BubNlXgSAKqTTxuqpH7Nqu/s320/camp+may+2012+062.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Potato Spinach Squares- Vegan Brunch </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was craving some hot breakfast foods last week, so I decided to make these. Turns out they taste better cold, but nonetheless they are a nice hearty meal to start your day. Potatoes, spinach, lemon, oregano, and panko breadcrumbs make for a portable breakfast!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCNb9LXSUux2xe8dCZWJqNAlbXDWvElEStlIHHo4ce45YlF4ITwckswE9CtV6Y90_Sm8DlTYwEROOE2WtHxbWKL6Qk_nWtvLeVyNAc864StZhJkMag91PMlEclAGjzKJzG543R/s1600/camp+may+2012+063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCNb9LXSUux2xe8dCZWJqNAlbXDWvElEStlIHHo4ce45YlF4ITwckswE9CtV6Y90_Sm8DlTYwEROOE2WtHxbWKL6Qk_nWtvLeVyNAc864StZhJkMag91PMlEclAGjzKJzG543R/s320/camp+may+2012+063.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Zucchini Muffins- Vegan Brunch</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
These are supposed to be made with spelt flour, but I didn't have any so I just used regular wheat flour...gasp! Billy, the professed zucchini hater, enjoyed these immensely despite the fact that "you can see the zucchini!" Lightly spiced and moist, these are great on their own or with a bit of jam. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj6teajIrwF2w-ziwrsI1izgL3V9VTlCt7jjECsvCnX-Vwvv_r4MA-0LPk7gNTUujnP4DGfO2FfJimOEeDz-18WCZPuzJdyaEgn-CxJnfNzLNp3iUku126zsMm41G7HcI3Bc3M/s1600/camp+may+2012+064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj6teajIrwF2w-ziwrsI1izgL3V9VTlCt7jjECsvCnX-Vwvv_r4MA-0LPk7gNTUujnP4DGfO2FfJimOEeDz-18WCZPuzJdyaEgn-CxJnfNzLNp3iUku126zsMm41G7HcI3Bc3M/s320/camp+may+2012+064.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<b> Chocolate raspberry ice cream- A Vegan Ice Cream Paradise </b><br />
<br />
I got this<a href="http://veganicecream.blogspot.ca/2006/08/chocolate-raspberry-ice-cream.html" target="_blank"> recipe</a> from a blog full of ice cream recipes!<b> </b>This is a very nice ice cream, although there's little gritty pieces that are either cocoa or unmelted chocolate chips. Despite that, its still very good. Next up on the ice cream menu is rhubarb!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz9qPMUtFQ1Y0aBeUGetkIzQPCX_GdLaIBFmwIiFnIjaWsoDu66qO4A8d7tAhsPD829NYQFS4tiOkyvWb9wzacEeFYKYCkee_Plcbe5BWggS-9UzIO23OuBO29-1k7s1XxUFbY/s1600/camp+may+2012+065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz9qPMUtFQ1Y0aBeUGetkIzQPCX_GdLaIBFmwIiFnIjaWsoDu66qO4A8d7tAhsPD829NYQFS4tiOkyvWb9wzacEeFYKYCkee_Plcbe5BWggS-9UzIO23OuBO29-1k7s1XxUFbY/s320/camp+may+2012+065.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI3VvMfyW8olA_7Qdw8zSu_ZUpVyBbx_vB_x7FiPhxPya_o9gmlxQ59524DoKb3pKRqmw-VCr2FGcSKJZ3ZDH9qvxiuL1WymyQMOwfIFE0wqGPG7_uOnRS6l_J10HDx0vdUyRB/s1600/camp+may+2012+073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I got to try fiddleheads this week! I was so excited to see them in the grocery store since it seems whenever I see them on blogs or food shows, they're not available. I boiled them in salted water and then topped them with a bit of melted Earth Balance butter and some pepper. They were melt-in-your-mouth delicious. A bit like asparagus and broccoli. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3U9nICCksymHC5ZW_pGgjOByE8O1xip8IzsHc_EA94_pHRuc5klaruSSADvRbCrOSzjKBdWIGuADj-9CS9mhrHRVwIaS04DfIRyqJd81owPYWhk_IywkvRrqgpt5jH6JK0weK/s1600/camp+may+2012+075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3U9nICCksymHC5ZW_pGgjOByE8O1xip8IzsHc_EA94_pHRuc5klaruSSADvRbCrOSzjKBdWIGuADj-9CS9mhrHRVwIaS04DfIRyqJd81owPYWhk_IywkvRrqgpt5jH6JK0weK/s320/camp+may+2012+075.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<b>Jamaican Style Black Bean Bake with Cornbread Topping- Supermarket Vegan</b><br />
<br />
Yum! This was quick to assemble and tastes great. I used almond milk instead of coconut milk for the cornbread. Billy really liked this dish too. The recipe is posted <a href="http://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipe/jamaican-style-black-bean-and-coconut-cornbread-bake/" target="_blank">here</a>, but doesn't seem to credit the cookbook, although its the same recipe. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia2JC9NeI5ZuSHP_cgyDfFSIOX34c_la3N8qWXe49jskGLOa0iFNBP2J-8hjg4AJesI_40gM616rfNs8GGxGR87Uwy66ATsU_fpMAQSihqwh5ipZn-jBviEHmqf16AbyRTeQPc/s1600/camp+may+2012+076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia2JC9NeI5ZuSHP_cgyDfFSIOX34c_la3N8qWXe49jskGLOa0iFNBP2J-8hjg4AJesI_40gM616rfNs8GGxGR87Uwy66ATsU_fpMAQSihqwh5ipZn-jBviEHmqf16AbyRTeQPc/s320/camp+may+2012+076.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOndv0jY1lKuI20UIIam3h_cUYSCC3Te45dcIOIc5Tf_ibUOdYLwtMS7kd7Iw3XCIN2VaA9L74MKrrDe9LnBcytLBHjOgULITpwUFIiy2pc1wP31cJUuC9qJiLQ4s6IQbKyTdZ/s1600/camp+may+2012+077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOndv0jY1lKuI20UIIam3h_cUYSCC3Te45dcIOIc5Tf_ibUOdYLwtMS7kd7Iw3XCIN2VaA9L74MKrrDe9LnBcytLBHjOgULITpwUFIiy2pc1wP31cJUuC9qJiLQ4s6IQbKyTdZ/s320/camp+may+2012+077.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I had some leftover Daiya mozzarella and veggie ground round from pizza night, so I decided to make these little meat tarts for lunch this weekend. I mixed ground round, cheese and salsa, with a little bit of Vegan Parm, and then baked them in premade frozen tarts. They really hit the spot! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgThvKo2MEsDWm83KKsMvQanVKzD2Zb1hbPoq5XhIh5-rU2fkoUgDiEKG2n2rJEpY-gxz8QwVuEngP6bfjwJ1NKYb3FGYxrXne0m4zmYe6r8Otzo5wfi35cBm01q5hHHnhrdxdh/s1600/camp+may+2012+078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgThvKo2MEsDWm83KKsMvQanVKzD2Zb1hbPoq5XhIh5-rU2fkoUgDiEKG2n2rJEpY-gxz8QwVuEngP6bfjwJ1NKYb3FGYxrXne0m4zmYe6r8Otzo5wfi35cBm01q5hHHnhrdxdh/s320/camp+may+2012+078.JPG" width="320" /></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And last but not least, dinner tonight was glazed balsamic "chicken" using PC's meatless chicken breasts, served with whole wheat linguine. I used the recipe <a href="http://www.canadianliving.com/food/glazed_balsamic_chicken.php" target="_blank">here </a>but made a few changes to veganize it. Instead of chicken stock, I used vegetable stock and instead of honey I used agave nectar. I will definitely be making this glaze again, but I think I'd prefer it served with mashed potatoes instead of pasta. Billy really liked this one too. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmu6TbhIgSSfgUEK8baBZwRvo9rhJviddl0Cpn52Wgih0TproWLjeMl8zoTnw-ugfaHCK1aZ7VtYnho5u-8zKtXEb-y-vJGVgRN97rPgK9HvwO3ORy_wBUs4eidccvIWXq7BM1/s1600/camp+may+2012+079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmu6TbhIgSSfgUEK8baBZwRvo9rhJviddl0Cpn52Wgih0TproWLjeMl8zoTnw-ugfaHCK1aZ7VtYnho5u-8zKtXEb-y-vJGVgRN97rPgK9HvwO3ORy_wBUs4eidccvIWXq7BM1/s320/camp+may+2012+079.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-26702679168749684622012-05-15T20:43:00.002-04:002012-05-15T20:45:39.586-04:00"The world's favorite season is the spring. All things seem possible in May." I can't believe it's been over a month since I last posted...it sure
doesn't feel like it! We have been keeping busy with outdoor projects,
but the cooking continues (even if the meals have been simpler lately). <br />
<br />
<b>Southwest lasagna- Supermarket Vegan</b><br />
A very simple lasagna, featuring corn, refried beans, salsa, and hominy. This was my first time using hominy, which appears to be soaked corn (but tastes much better than it sounds!). Billy and I both really liked this dinner.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL7PuZmc8A8WRDETo31g0TxsI4RxHXUeljiYsy5wovqjgEQHw-USDDOwgzbvg_7JprKxrwCVFIEwm9WgeG_FOG17Z6Z_KOyjDaeoEEWpYWpBCWFjNbKZzwrDJbDLLEXB6HIezi/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL7PuZmc8A8WRDETo31g0TxsI4RxHXUeljiYsy5wovqjgEQHw-USDDOwgzbvg_7JprKxrwCVFIEwm9WgeG_FOG17Z6Z_KOyjDaeoEEWpYWpBCWFjNbKZzwrDJbDLLEXB6HIezi/s320/003.JPG" width="320" /></a><b> </b><br />
<br />
<br />
<b> </b> <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<b>Yellow Basmati Rice with Chickpeas- Supermarket Vegan</b></div>
<br />
Another simple dish that really hits the spot. Basmati is my absolute favourite rice, it is so fragrant! So far, the cookbook does not disappoint.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMpkwZWclej5RqiviX-VR499Y7cgFCYP_BnJAnfxoQCgjuEgLM3PssxhY2hq_1ewWJvwXNolWH-WU_PiQpTg2OQqW5gqn4yI1nCZCE3zL7x_s2w5iuYk1gUN4I_kBv4f1mBZee/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMpkwZWclej5RqiviX-VR499Y7cgFCYP_BnJAnfxoQCgjuEgLM3PssxhY2hq_1ewWJvwXNolWH-WU_PiQpTg2OQqW5gqn4yI1nCZCE3zL7x_s2w5iuYk1gUN4I_kBv4f1mBZee/s320/004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Southwest Pasta- Supermarket Vegan </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Pasta tossed with black beans, tomatoes, peppers and corn....it doesn't get any better. This pasta dish is very fresh! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPK7Q2AdrzSR-hlnCt3KeO3ORwaerpxq7iPWEPWXZnh2aYJ4BFeus_m4TFPTYDSTpc_sALHkm5GVWAMdWFcllDeXd7v9M3N7De2lT_im-BJwlvjKUBTLBZyOHrqpesXXdQHOgX/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPK7Q2AdrzSR-hlnCt3KeO3ORwaerpxq7iPWEPWXZnh2aYJ4BFeus_m4TFPTYDSTpc_sALHkm5GVWAMdWFcllDeXd7v9M3N7De2lT_im-BJwlvjKUBTLBZyOHrqpesXXdQHOgX/s320/001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Banana Muffins- Skinny Bitch Ultimate Everyday Cookbook</b><br />
<br />
LOVE these muffins! They've got a nice moist flavour with a cinnamon sugar topping. I left out the nuts so that I could eat them at work (nut free school). I was going to make them for our upcoming camping trip, but apparently bananas attract mosquitoes, so I'll have to find a different recipe. You can see the recipe for these <a href="http://books.google.ca/books?id=BMdjgQUXPu8C&pg=PA77&lpg=PA77&dq=banana+muffins+skinny+bitch+ultimate&source=bl&ots=RfvEcsBv6-&sig=SLJr1Y4S_Ulyn_UBLzIe2wTABsU&hl=en&sa=X&ei=yPayT6fxAYik8gTkqqHiCA&ved=0CGAQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q&f=false" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyuhVKduPxKNhaqqpizuk-_NiB3tC_nFhSd3nrvKy-XyrnWY7g9BUYWwx9blpGcaol8XwesW8QsoBOgpjmVv2YtZYeP-lF8oRms_WzDtkXH9xNs0N_4ZIRUEJ8Hl__XszOUYRM/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyuhVKduPxKNhaqqpizuk-_NiB3tC_nFhSd3nrvKy-XyrnWY7g9BUYWwx9blpGcaol8XwesW8QsoBOgpjmVv2YtZYeP-lF8oRms_WzDtkXH9xNs0N_4ZIRUEJ8Hl__XszOUYRM/s320/005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<b>Homestyle Chocolate Chip Cookies- Vive le Vegan</b><br />
<br />
Billy was craving some cookies a few weekends ago. Since Christmas, we've both been paying more attention to our diets and exercise routines, so I haven't been baking much or buying much junk food. But he wanted a much deserved reward and decided (with a push from me) to make them, so that I wouldn't have to, and be tempted to eat them! I had one, and it was fantastic. I have made this recipe countless times and it is always delicious. The author has posted the recipe <a href="http://viveleveganrecipes.blogspot.ca/2006/01/homestyle-chocolate-chip-cookies.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN6q-lNCzyHNIhCu_qpgpEpDTvr-SOFA3G1DPZgWnzWT_bh-FwkthLv2n-4FeaP9fEEgpfvaA4l0fs1yK_OvIA87sBuuwWOr45ij7Bzz68ohuNFl5uZChdCAJt2cruisfnxjGd/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN6q-lNCzyHNIhCu_qpgpEpDTvr-SOFA3G1DPZgWnzWT_bh-FwkthLv2n-4FeaP9fEEgpfvaA4l0fs1yK_OvIA87sBuuwWOr45ij7Bzz68ohuNFl5uZChdCAJt2cruisfnxjGd/s320/007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Spicy soba noodles in peanut sauce- Quick and Easy Vegan Comfort Food </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
This dish was good. It had more veggies than noodles, which from a health standpoint is good, but from every other point is kind of disappointing. Mind you, we are calorie counting (with great success), so it is no one's fault but my own for not adding extra noodles! I did not make my own peanut sauce, I used a storebought packet, but instead of adding coconut milk, I added soymilk. Mmmm....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMJoFj7bdSqMVepcPAS00nB2ELRl9c7629qwsdEPro-IKcN3CoDeGyWMU2ChKCrUhFLa1qGFJcvZcJOwhtFvLQ_Of533ZJXAM35OQT75MOjuI-kOEDhko0goGNdjVFKWo9UlW9/s1600/018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMJoFj7bdSqMVepcPAS00nB2ELRl9c7629qwsdEPro-IKcN3CoDeGyWMU2ChKCrUhFLa1qGFJcvZcJOwhtFvLQ_Of533ZJXAM35OQT75MOjuI-kOEDhko0goGNdjVFKWo9UlW9/s320/018.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<b>Spaghetti with tomatoes, broccoli and white beans</b><br />
This was made later in the week, when I'd already made all our planned menus and just wanted to wing it. Very comforting!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN0E5M8U-85MBy3dXWzQ_TApfOZgsXLyOI2th2n_6vDfnRJj4CdwemciDwxmIYWKW1_p6f12Nzf5SD_Avbv8yTeh9w0jmZHSefJTpg2bJB-1xr7MRKaNg4HFX6dSq71PbOV8lr/s1600/020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN0E5M8U-85MBy3dXWzQ_TApfOZgsXLyOI2th2n_6vDfnRJj4CdwemciDwxmIYWKW1_p6f12Nzf5SD_Avbv8yTeh9w0jmZHSefJTpg2bJB-1xr7MRKaNg4HFX6dSq71PbOV8lr/s320/020.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b> </b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Linguine with cream sauce- Skinny Bitch UEC</b><br />
<br />
The <a href="http://books.google.ca/books?id=BMdjgQUXPu8C&pg=PA212&dq=squash+with+vegan+cream+sauce&hl=en&sa=X&ei=o_eyT5qXGI-g8gTqst2QCQ&ved=0CD0Q6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=squash%20with%20vegan%20cream%20sauce&f=false" target="_blank">recipe</a> actually calls for spaghetti squash, but Billy wasn't really feeling it, so I decided to use whole wheat linguine instead. The sauce is delicious, and I think next time I make it, I'll make it with pasta for Billy, and with the squash for me. A soymilk-based sauce with baby spinach, diced tomatoes, garlic and onion. There's also supposed to be vegan parm but I was all out.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVl3JLKr9UQI8KVYkNMHqYmNUHtSBLzzHqp7qRWx-FPAGEaGsqEm7IolsDi-jghSByukQoV20gjib5ZCyBUR6O3dEvg0VSu0QQd8q54PNRWlLWRT_lRgPIkjX8juhZfdT5J0yV/s1600/021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVl3JLKr9UQI8KVYkNMHqYmNUHtSBLzzHqp7qRWx-FPAGEaGsqEm7IolsDi-jghSByukQoV20gjib5ZCyBUR6O3dEvg0VSu0QQd8q54PNRWlLWRT_lRgPIkjX8juhZfdT5J0yV/s320/021.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b>Stewed Rhubarb </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
Our backyard has two HUGE rhubarb plants that grow at an exponential rate. As such, I was able to harvest some stalks that were already ready to eat. I stewed the diced rhubarb with some sugar and water for a quick and easy dessert that is reminiscent of my Grandma Helen's strawberry rhubarb freezer jam. I cannot wait for this summer!!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5k5f2TroseqG2FHfMX2I5zU6fUnrog2lfYJvwIxbIIKrrpAaYH5-lKVk9_LYbKpt9pzLlG7RqpARdw7O94aCmFeQcVDDudcReaIhr7dzWhiijlldnQkyq9i87_0HlhjlCGwv3/s1600/022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5k5f2TroseqG2FHfMX2I5zU6fUnrog2lfYJvwIxbIIKrrpAaYH5-lKVk9_LYbKpt9pzLlG7RqpARdw7O94aCmFeQcVDDudcReaIhr7dzWhiijlldnQkyq9i87_0HlhjlCGwv3/s320/022.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
And since I am clearly so awesome in the kitchen, I've decided to venture into the DIY world of household products, to challenge myself, but mostly to save money. Landscaping is expensive!! I have made a homemade toothpaste and mouthwash that I enjoy (post to come) and also have had success with a homemade laundry detergent (borax free). I will save the recipe for an upcoming and separate post. Here's a picture of the laundry detergent. It works just as well as store bought but it is way cheaper.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii8Lbz-4oYhxc1zuqZgkW6NySSLXuUPeuXyb7v7o8Zyupnqnsf1oBeg8MSKoYexY0Dp9i9pua7-v_pMUep1apXEc4TFawBm6Yk4zVbtPp7ppnh0NFJnQ3QkFTbAfRffZlR8te2/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii8Lbz-4oYhxc1zuqZgkW6NySSLXuUPeuXyb7v7o8Zyupnqnsf1oBeg8MSKoYexY0Dp9i9pua7-v_pMUep1apXEc4TFawBm6Yk4zVbtPp7ppnh0NFJnQ3QkFTbAfRffZlR8te2/s320/006.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-73607695125589152472012-04-10T19:00:00.012-04:002012-04-10T19:50:24.028-04:00Happy April!I haven't posted in a couple of weeks, but I've been cooking! Things are going really well with Billy's "weekday vegetarian" transition, which has really turned into "vegan at home" more so than a weekday/weekend thing. Whatever the label, it is really nice to have a vegan household and fridge!<br /><br />Before I get to the food, I just wanted to say something about <span style="font-weight: bold;">posting recipes</span>. Over the years, I've had some requests from readers to post the recipes that I feature. Most of the food I post comes from cookbooks and recipes written by other people. I know there is a lot of grey area when it comes to posting recipes, and yes I could technically post these recipes as long as I give credit to the author. However, I do not feel comfortable doing so as it is not my intellectual property. It is my intent for readers to see some meals from these books and then decide for themselves if they would like to purchase the cookbook themselves. That being said, if I find a link to a recipe that I am blogging about, and permission has been given by the author to post it, or better yet, the author posted it themselves, then I will provide a link to the recipe. I hope this makes sense to everyone!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Veggie Pot Pie- Skinny Bitch UEC</span><br />The crust for this pot pie is phenomenal! I usually am terrible at getting a good, flakey pie crust, but this recipe did the trick! The filling is basic veggies in a creamy roux sauce. Next time, I want to add some tofu, tempeh, meatless chicken or beans to add some protein.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiosPIqUlSgSN9aS05CNjz1lWMi5OmRM78QAfHCwbE7gLFhs07_mwW3cAxdbDTOXTRyCjlmcSRZlFbjyvhAKPG_YxcKj19HnYyDSgnMXGqB0CCva4HjcUwBJ7-R6q4SPNIm-IeT/s1600/026.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiosPIqUlSgSN9aS05CNjz1lWMi5OmRM78QAfHCwbE7gLFhs07_mwW3cAxdbDTOXTRyCjlmcSRZlFbjyvhAKPG_YxcKj19HnYyDSgnMXGqB0CCva4HjcUwBJ7-R6q4SPNIm-IeT/s320/026.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729913841252495122" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Roasted Cherry Tomato Pasta- La Dolce Vegan</span><br />I had some cherry tomatoes to use up so I made this simple and yummy pasta dish. The only thing I didn't have was fresh basil so I just subbed dried instead. I also added some baby spinach to the boiling pasta before draining it.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmYHjIr8kcntY5KyNQHVqPB1gv73fJS42KxGY9c2qliJGuqkTZXBGQ95AqYAT-tfnr0ubdhGCuym4TAvJ_ZkpWbZJkuQAE9FIMbaVsCjEgVCxaB5wQws2r_IN8o3xFiElQ7p6B/s1600/025.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmYHjIr8kcntY5KyNQHVqPB1gv73fJS42KxGY9c2qliJGuqkTZXBGQ95AqYAT-tfnr0ubdhGCuym4TAvJ_ZkpWbZJkuQAE9FIMbaVsCjEgVCxaB5wQws2r_IN8o3xFiElQ7p6B/s320/025.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729913830806619570" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Billy loves his Easter chocolate, so I made some homemade eggs for him...vegan of course! I just melted chocolate chips with a pat of vegetable shortening, then stirred in Rice Crispies and plopped it into my egg mold from Bulk Barn. Delicious! I think Billy ate 7 of the 8 eggs I made and would have had more but I cut us off!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF7qYCn8dEdXkAP5SBZ8Davaaxr-DkDfjjk9-RYIborRIBKrkTIO1w-6uR7djAToCaVqiH5e8H9flZDftAHbR7cQjGsEwkFBJC_1s_K4FBhsFiBbCDMbQIfUirhZwR_nZUFSBl/s1600/022.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF7qYCn8dEdXkAP5SBZ8Davaaxr-DkDfjjk9-RYIborRIBKrkTIO1w-6uR7djAToCaVqiH5e8H9flZDftAHbR7cQjGsEwkFBJC_1s_K4FBhsFiBbCDMbQIfUirhZwR_nZUFSBl/s320/022.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729913821897492754" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_LKThRSe5DIGaS476C29E2fVB2n4a1z3eJfZC3uPzHVmer8Pg2wh1Dqc8DH2I_jAee6X0_KwEeoYcAl0orpeZVop0ajSBpsUbHFUXhvavnlAgTulYEY_-CYyKCU5LGrr1ua4k/s1600/019.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_LKThRSe5DIGaS476C29E2fVB2n4a1z3eJfZC3uPzHVmer8Pg2wh1Dqc8DH2I_jAee6X0_KwEeoYcAl0orpeZVop0ajSBpsUbHFUXhvavnlAgTulYEY_-CYyKCU5LGrr1ua4k/s320/019.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729913336957946354" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cholay and Aaloo- Skinny Bitch UEC</span><br />This is chickpeas and potatoes. Spicy and delicious! I will make the potato cubes smaller next time to cut down on cooking time, but this is a very satisfying dish. Here's a <a href="http://books.google.ca/books?id=BMdjgQUXPu8C&pg=PA168&lpg=PA168&dq=cholay+and+aaloo+skinny+bitch&source=bl&ots=RfvBcqtp6T&sig=16vJHEKDzPaQTEo6IG5wY1W6HyM&hl=en&sa=X&ei=SMCET-qLDMm9gAevmaDTBw&ved=0CDsQ6AEwAw#v=onepage&q&f=false">link</a> to the recipe. If you don't have this cookbook, I highly recommend it, it's my favourite vegan cookbook of the last few years.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfg2OO5e_bbsb-rilcAcQcUioPPQOwCXM2QLPOllAHf84J46CG1Kic53A0rhF-98FvmbrsoxNICZh5A_i7ctpEG0-H-KUoIvJSsVmFkeWen_oBDTuA0bS7jmQcZhioHIkicwDR/s1600/027.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfg2OO5e_bbsb-rilcAcQcUioPPQOwCXM2QLPOllAHf84J46CG1Kic53A0rhF-98FvmbrsoxNICZh5A_i7ctpEG0-H-KUoIvJSsVmFkeWen_oBDTuA0bS7jmQcZhioHIkicwDR/s320/027.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729913849747619730" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Old Fashioned Chelsea Waffles- Vegan Brunch</span><br />We didn't do groceries last week and just decided to live off of whatever was in the fridge and pantry (I spent a fabulous weekend in Toronto with some girlfriends and didn't get back in time to do groceries). So one night, I decided to do breakfast for dinner. These waffles are very simple but have an awesome crunchy outside and soft inside. They freeze really well, so I popped the leftovers into the toaster in the morning.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2raVVXnmUytZTHEbCuAwhJowMbmUx36GBkuNnLpAS8UNz1skfCEj-rOpnHXm4jD3hZe4fr2XT7nwaCzUAlK-cTWcimJxZH_D3GoMWky8GgPcqKOSystysAQABdXsrk1GSfw6y/s1600/017.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2raVVXnmUytZTHEbCuAwhJowMbmUx36GBkuNnLpAS8UNz1skfCEj-rOpnHXm4jD3hZe4fr2XT7nwaCzUAlK-cTWcimJxZH_D3GoMWky8GgPcqKOSystysAQABdXsrk1GSfw6y/s320/017.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729913326948167810" border="0" /></a><br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="st"><em style="font-weight: bold;">Pasta</em><span style="font-weight: bold;"> with </span><em style="font-weight: bold;">Swiss Chard</em><span style="font-weight: bold;"> and Red </span><em style="font-weight: bold;">Kidney Beans</em> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">- Supermarket Vegan</span><br />Another tasty and simple pasta dish. Kidney beans with wilted swiss chard, onions and a few other basic seasonings. Billy liked this one! This cookbook does not disappoint either.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiieKHtaBBJexL7tHgqYPw1D653ersw3vMqMooukJ2qM4ycJwsndiJ-xiUECUfAaa2SFP6f4pXa85zAxRU-n4-HEY08rZ_MJ2Qm8fI9JWP-bSPa7oB9oLKQU2IjaYjNRfrjBdH2/s1600/013.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiieKHtaBBJexL7tHgqYPw1D653ersw3vMqMooukJ2qM4ycJwsndiJ-xiUECUfAaa2SFP6f4pXa85zAxRU-n4-HEY08rZ_MJ2Qm8fI9JWP-bSPa7oB9oLKQU2IjaYjNRfrjBdH2/s320/013.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729913315329467170" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Peanut Butter and Jelly Ice Cream- The Vegan Scoop</span><br />Our latest adventures of the frozen kind...I made this ice cream with coconut milk and coconut creamer so that it would be soy free. It's really good! I was hoping for ribbons of jam in the ice cream but the mixer kind of well, mixed it all in!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4GKdmcpv_43-xRlxPmcKv6gIcrkBnX_lI6i8htfSU92J0DS7q8eb4MtFNsyCHgWvkRYw-nAV2EkElIvg1TTlYug-3dGAs26atEZej1LFBilZz9pdApALo-n9MwpyKLNi1kpPp/s1600/012.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4GKdmcpv_43-xRlxPmcKv6gIcrkBnX_lI6i8htfSU92J0DS7q8eb4MtFNsyCHgWvkRYw-nAV2EkElIvg1TTlYug-3dGAs26atEZej1LFBilZz9pdApALo-n9MwpyKLNi1kpPp/s320/012.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729913308763897298" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Homemade Burger Buns- Greyt Vegan Life</span><br />Billy was craving burgers, so we picked up some Lick's Nature burgers. I don't usually get them, just due to higher calories and trans fat, but with Billy transitioning his diet, its more about satisfying his cravings...we'll worry about the health aspects later! I made the buns from the recipe at <a href="http://greytveganlife.wordpress.com/tag/homemade-buns/">this</a> blog, and they are awesome! I had my bun with an Yves veggie burger.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq37i6OtX2FU7qWeMt3H2Ik12O-4ijKmv1uILitwnl-mwOJVVz28A1XaNnaW036SxY5g15B9ZxDprEGpBfiE4fnpg3lqpMn22qAQjcfh02dQbQPVlUqnIHzX-VQyGwN0wDTvx0/s1600/011.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq37i6OtX2FU7qWeMt3H2Ik12O-4ijKmv1uILitwnl-mwOJVVz28A1XaNnaW036SxY5g15B9ZxDprEGpBfiE4fnpg3lqpMn22qAQjcfh02dQbQPVlUqnIHzX-VQyGwN0wDTvx0/s320/011.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729913297391790594" border="0" /></a><br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bean and Veggie Wrap- Supermarket Vegan</span><br />These are made with a white bean and roasted red pepper puree and topped with baby spinach. Very garlicky! I think if I make these for work lunches again I will be cutting the garlic in half (raw garlic gets stronger the longer it sits). Overall, they are good.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCMWw99uGtAdR1yd7E2eUlc9TwSd51oV1j5sKyCfc63jhH3-7DtFCymgSTe1BDgYwi_903XoTspF8vOtqVl9Q5zhn-9IT9oYH_3kvk9NRWB0DA_TxUFMYBjG4o4k165jXigckD/s1600/009.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCMWw99uGtAdR1yd7E2eUlc9TwSd51oV1j5sKyCfc63jhH3-7DtFCymgSTe1BDgYwi_903XoTspF8vOtqVl9Q5zhn-9IT9oYH_3kvk9NRWB0DA_TxUFMYBjG4o4k165jXigckD/s320/009.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729912041409663666" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bulgur and Quinoa with Chickpeas- President's Choice Blue Menu</span><br />I picked this us in the freezer aisle for a quick lunch or dinner option. It's pretty good. Nothing wonderful though, which is maybe why its been discontinued...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL29A7tPjzzyHglpjkkkWcYYBjxYPi2yRud_-jpj2qGz1bRXGtsgVtQBSbzegaY42lSWSghT0qCAAg5jBn-xFGGdq44L_NmTmJJl6aVPpfwxOQsIHmW_OwcNkrqALzOyna_C2H/s1600/007.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL29A7tPjzzyHglpjkkkWcYYBjxYPi2yRud_-jpj2qGz1bRXGtsgVtQBSbzegaY42lSWSghT0qCAAg5jBn-xFGGdq44L_NmTmJJl6aVPpfwxOQsIHmW_OwcNkrqALzOyna_C2H/s320/007.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729912032608619506" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Orange Sesame Grilled "Chicken" Tenders- Veganize This</span><br />I bought this cookbook so excited to make all the awesome "veganized" versions of my favourite foods. Doritos? Escargot? Twinkies? Sign me up! Except, most of the recipes are dauntingly long and time consuming. Every once in a while I get inspired and try one of the easier looking recipes...such as this one! I did the seitan making and marinading, and Billy did the grilling. These are pretty good! The recipe can be found on the author's blog <a href="http://jennshaggy.blogspot.ca/2009/01/vegan-orange-sesame-grilled-chicken.html">here</a>.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMIbLGQqC503Rc5HFko0wfRM-P_fEcbiEk4rG4aCcaj4Phzj-gkZbbly3PlB4u3k90aaHVpspzTNlikgFjHo8ypatWFMg43y_erehtHpvGYUT9px6WJgGc_JMmxVJRK5ZR1pF6/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMIbLGQqC503Rc5HFko0wfRM-P_fEcbiEk4rG4aCcaj4Phzj-gkZbbly3PlB4u3k90aaHVpspzTNlikgFjHo8ypatWFMg43y_erehtHpvGYUT9px6WJgGc_JMmxVJRK5ZR1pF6/s320/006.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729912024513277874" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I am experimenting with making my own household products (toothpaste, shampoo, etc) to save money and reduce my environmental impact. One easy way to do this is to make your own dog treats!<br />I made <a href="http://www.dogtreatkitchen.com/peanut-butter-dog-biscuit-recipe.html">this</a> recipe for peanut butter oatmeal treats, and made them bite size. Our dogs are given treats for doing their business (it is very hard to potty train dachshunds!) so I didn't want to be giving them too many big treats a day. The dogs love them and they only have four ingredients which you probably already have in your pantry. Bonus points for not having to veganize the recipes.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0i4NlsA7NamcBHzZNSUpIN6cvwdA-C5f5AThe1ynHuPQNzsX3vpCvWq9hxBqBaIWlohCEOc776xJ1x1dsJpF9P099fGlICQrrTYR1gpPDSZM2L9BcPD0VXGuH-ebP1JfO_tcl/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0i4NlsA7NamcBHzZNSUpIN6cvwdA-C5f5AThe1ynHuPQNzsX3vpCvWq9hxBqBaIWlohCEOc776xJ1x1dsJpF9P099fGlICQrrTYR1gpPDSZM2L9BcPD0VXGuH-ebP1JfO_tcl/s320/003.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729912014234267874" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The dogs also LOVE dehydrated sweet potato slices...which are not cheap at the pet store. Really, its just sweet potatoes and the dogs go berserk for them. So I bought a few and dehydrated them myself in the oven at 250F for three hours.<br /><br />And lastly...homemade bread-maker bread! This bread was delicious and did not last long. We live right by a bakery so whenever we are out walking and smell the freshly baked bread, we start drooling. It was nice to have that smell in the house but it will not be occurring on a regular basis...not good for the waistline! We ate this just slathered in Earth Balance margarine!!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr07yzctEGs5mgFykUw5SHXULQ57PbxJATjjbPutWTDYzIPqjJxQlRLRiZz0fa9lxutuTjE1lBSmKIlLNTZSQeMcbejFzDFP2aQ_nDPGmuBxKeQPig8A6-AvRnlJ5hB_hh0wqo/s1600/010.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr07yzctEGs5mgFykUw5SHXULQ57PbxJATjjbPutWTDYzIPqjJxQlRLRiZz0fa9lxutuTjE1lBSmKIlLNTZSQeMcbejFzDFP2aQ_nDPGmuBxKeQPig8A6-AvRnlJ5hB_hh0wqo/s320/010.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729912052058998546" border="0" /></a>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-19386327245520960522012-03-18T21:27:00.009-04:002012-03-18T22:05:23.294-04:00Beannachtam na Feile Padraig! Happy St. Patrick's Day!I hope everyone had a wonderful St. Patrick's day, whether you celebrate or not. Everyone loves to claim they're "Irish" or have some "Irish in them" but whether this is true or not, it is a wonderful excuse to get together with friends. Since it fell on a Saturday this year and we knew the bars would be packed and expensive, Billy and I decided to host a house party this year. And that means food! (and beverages).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Shepherd's Pie/Cottage Pie- Cooking for the Rushed</span><br />I did not know this until yesterday, but if you make Shepherd's pie with beef and not lamb, it is technically called Cottage pie. Anyways, I guess this one is neither because it's made with Yves Ground Round haha. This is a quick and simple recipe that went over very well with all the omnis at the party ;)<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh8hWLUG1xPdo9yO2FlAiu5vfQa3NiPAPCAU_esxu8dbYVfK04WJL-FXrjuTFJER8bXAdFmM8_0kuvdG-4CKPVJpm8uxUiIA21UsG34fWR8la1eomGWM6akDEOKiH58JWICi4g/s1600/026.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh8hWLUG1xPdo9yO2FlAiu5vfQa3NiPAPCAU_esxu8dbYVfK04WJL-FXrjuTFJER8bXAdFmM8_0kuvdG-4CKPVJpm8uxUiIA21UsG34fWR8la1eomGWM6akDEOKiH58JWICi4g/s320/026.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721415562835643618" border="0" /></a><br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Irish Soda Bread- The Vegan Table</span><br />This recipe has six ingredients: soy milk, vinegar, flour, salt, baking soda and margarine. It was so good! There was none left by midnight. It's really nice spread with a bit of Earth Balance.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8zr_y1nOUwMLDlE0fneYDej7yUktQP1788-myFf2B7MkU9ib7LRLLAWpUuJc_6jQNoOGWng3AThuM04JjszTFOQzN4RHxNlbF9sAdYGmmBOq07TkeVkaP7hzbcljw21rbKnzE/s1600/017.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8zr_y1nOUwMLDlE0fneYDej7yUktQP1788-myFf2B7MkU9ib7LRLLAWpUuJc_6jQNoOGWng3AThuM04JjszTFOQzN4RHxNlbF9sAdYGmmBOq07TkeVkaP7hzbcljw21rbKnzE/s320/017.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721414970078955762" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Green Punch with Rum</span><br />This was a very yummy punch from this <a href="http://www.punchbowl.com/p/green-party-punch-for-st-patrick-s-day">site</a>. I couldn't find lime sherbet that didn't have dairy and I didn't have time to make my own so I used store bought lemon gelato instead. And if anyone asked what white gelato was doing in a green themed punch I said: I couldn't find dairy-free green sorbet...so what, wanna fight about it? A little bit of my leprechaun spirit coming out!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlsrHsfgfjGxmDVEINEoCUa9b6XEV7KcceXcdSEH6ySCJDX_XajtwzQ9cNzILtlamY0YKSUWT8xdsEWp8wnruWThpcJ8Xe6fv9oV6YtF0sg6K3qokwjH0G44tfGZ-dktGDAcM3/s1600/025.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlsrHsfgfjGxmDVEINEoCUa9b6XEV7KcceXcdSEH6ySCJDX_XajtwzQ9cNzILtlamY0YKSUWT8xdsEWp8wnruWThpcJ8Xe6fv9oV6YtF0sg6K3qokwjH0G44tfGZ-dktGDAcM3/s320/025.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721415554359026594" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rainbow Cupcakes- Vegan Cupcakes Take Over the World</span><br />Et la piece de resistance....rainbow cupcakes! These are all over the internet, but I was still very proud of them. I used the basic vanilla cupcake recipe, then followed the tutorial <a href="http://familyfun.go.com/recipes/taste-a-rainbow-cupcakes-842128/">here</a> for how to colour the batter. They are topped with buttercream icing. These went really quickly (I had to hide one so I could have one).<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-DmDRlaILskUFvFvbEUDkGTynBxhgubEOjOagz_Fy4Ol8b4Pnb4ET5RUWjcBfFFAepVnaSRD-ae-o1bgOLbtOY9Pq9xiKnAxRjSzHKgU1sfc_1WIrAErWRsqh8402cK5CBr4Q/s1600/015.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-DmDRlaILskUFvFvbEUDkGTynBxhgubEOjOagz_Fy4Ol8b4Pnb4ET5RUWjcBfFFAepVnaSRD-ae-o1bgOLbtOY9Pq9xiKnAxRjSzHKgU1sfc_1WIrAErWRsqh8402cK5CBr4Q/s320/015.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721414961848299506" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd2HN2BukHjefr03ATEq1feQ1i2IrDQUs-8uP5MOSMKDV6yhyphenhyphenJr_zhHMUAMc88UiKRUMcA7ShMIsGqHivX7Tly6TmY7gIXtUdj78WLs8o608E_DX5Zm9UXstLvP0ubaPzyoHkY/s1600/012.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd2HN2BukHjefr03ATEq1feQ1i2IrDQUs-8uP5MOSMKDV6yhyphenhyphenJr_zhHMUAMc88UiKRUMcA7ShMIsGqHivX7Tly6TmY7gIXtUdj78WLs8o608E_DX5Zm9UXstLvP0ubaPzyoHkY/s320/012.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721414949800193890" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1v2gcDCwNJIV-NT7OwSkG88glokKBR9EBiEzFf0oGoActLhsSAzMRzpbfP-ZqQvoQCxVCf5J92v0yQ2b8mEobYxkHqtyNyP06qckjrKtU5bX1lQGbCiDN-Ce3ErS8g4D_sH7q/s1600/024.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1v2gcDCwNJIV-NT7OwSkG88glokKBR9EBiEzFf0oGoActLhsSAzMRzpbfP-ZqQvoQCxVCf5J92v0yQ2b8mEobYxkHqtyNyP06qckjrKtU5bX1lQGbCiDN-Ce3ErS8g4D_sH7q/s320/024.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721415550468518802" border="0" /></a><br /><br />And in non-Emerald Isle news, I'm still cooking lots, and Billy is still eating veg at home, so the adventure continues. The weather this week (March Break) was phenomenal...and that means BBQ season begins! One of my favourite things about BBQ'ing is that cooking dinner becomes a team effort. I do the prep, and B does the grilling (to a tee..he is the Grill Master!).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Vegetable Fajitas- Supermarket Vegan</span><br />I had mine with portabellos while Billy had his with President's Choice Meatless Chicken. All these beautiful veggies were marinaded in a balsamic/oil mixture and then grilled on the barbecue. Then we sliced them up and ate them in whole wheat tortillas. They are simple but delicious, topped with a bit of salsa.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaH74SJabdkicgkAX3J33RC3MrINxLgOM7q-3Uvk0KYasU0gXq0BmPupHyysi5RXN0jvM6ICmUntXo-iFqUEhpbtcsHIVy_3HdM-_K_dPj5FSnmavOxCu3ODhptFxmdpt2d7nM/s1600/034.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaH74SJabdkicgkAX3J33RC3MrINxLgOM7q-3Uvk0KYasU0gXq0BmPupHyysi5RXN0jvM6ICmUntXo-iFqUEhpbtcsHIVy_3HdM-_K_dPj5FSnmavOxCu3ODhptFxmdpt2d7nM/s320/034.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721415570840012626" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp8xHAdbByagWMjrBq9Jr_Q2d6T6Hz2CDqjrMcJaPf9TpDm7NFF5ym50Tcf2hapVba3RlJxVBLBdmPceFtAsoewWdkTfwuIMORaHhqnKaHpQgErsWv5i7a5eUkIZC7-BoPvKG6/s1600/036.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp8xHAdbByagWMjrBq9Jr_Q2d6T6Hz2CDqjrMcJaPf9TpDm7NFF5ym50Tcf2hapVba3RlJxVBLBdmPceFtAsoewWdkTfwuIMORaHhqnKaHpQgErsWv5i7a5eUkIZC7-BoPvKG6/s320/036.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721415572745273138" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">"Chicken" Skewers with Chimichurri Citrus Herb Sauce- Candle Cafe</span><br />My sister came to visit from Toronto (and she came bearing a gift...Smashbox mascara...yay cruelty free makeup!) so we had a family dinner. I brought this and it was fantastical! It is supposed to be made with seitan but I didn't make the seitan in time, so I subbed with PC meatless chicken. It's marinaded in a citrus sauce, then grilled/charred and then topped with the citrus herb sauce. They are really tasty and I plan on making them with seitan too. As a side, I made quinoa with vegetable broth instead of water and stirred in some frozen peas and carrots.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn3l-kr5yaonLFk6IOXvrNmthaLVno9pouGiWoALfa_zab__Qo_9IsPMp4k0A2tmIG4NcNbh4LzzNuPNYCeUOvRZvQyw1YkyR0xLutEoBm0dfYPfjewTlQXupxUJ_W2xrD77Qr/s1600/009.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn3l-kr5yaonLFk6IOXvrNmthaLVno9pouGiWoALfa_zab__Qo_9IsPMp4k0A2tmIG4NcNbh4LzzNuPNYCeUOvRZvQyw1YkyR0xLutEoBm0dfYPfjewTlQXupxUJ_W2xrD77Qr/s320/009.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721414408637497810" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1gQzRqAlVGBOVHadWv7xE3jiXqFT6k59MC3JMcwg9JI7FoETQWu19EHSfRFmzoCiTW7NOIWlYteZuJ4eotik_VdMorv4AvFd8vyce41uYv_dfYUS38f0syxCIWXiVQoGthtip/s1600/013.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1gQzRqAlVGBOVHadWv7xE3jiXqFT6k59MC3JMcwg9JI7FoETQWu19EHSfRFmzoCiTW7NOIWlYteZuJ4eotik_VdMorv4AvFd8vyce41uYv_dfYUS38f0syxCIWXiVQoGthtip/s320/013.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721414958925692930" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tofu Omelette- Quick and Easy Vegan Comfort Foods</span><br />I woke up one morning this week wanting an omelette badly. I had everything to make it, but I didn't have any veggies that would make a good filling. So I improvised and made a filling from "chicken", salsa, and French Onion Tofutti cream cheese, all mixed together. It was good! It would be even better with some wilted spinach. This meal was so high in protein, I wasn't hungry again til 3 pm.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhicbFfCjYbhz-1MHN1D8Ad-HBm97FH269kvDHq0xmYkB4QH5l4Oe-CB35hGTy-K_TufkUyKbYPEwFscAcOi4T6i4HtmPRT9P0cuT-D-WeHug1LU74O-fsW4P51DW8-tAND7HTL/s1600/011.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhicbFfCjYbhz-1MHN1D8Ad-HBm97FH269kvDHq0xmYkB4QH5l4Oe-CB35hGTy-K_TufkUyKbYPEwFscAcOi4T6i4HtmPRT9P0cuT-D-WeHug1LU74O-fsW4P51DW8-tAND7HTL/s320/011.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721414939745443026" border="0" /></a><br /><br />This is just a basic black bean salad with some bruschetta mix and homemade flax oil/balsamic vinaigrette.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXTkLLOiT38FUyRKF0Kl_W_yQSOzNTFuahEfoOMh1_bLsxFqpUqyZLoZf5zNfe3iog6Xq9u6z-Mq1B89P1dgXHY6Jo-GRYF_K9-Vehxm-m04dqJnDhmtsWpxiACc6QdY8KHoVJ/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXTkLLOiT38FUyRKF0Kl_W_yQSOzNTFuahEfoOMh1_bLsxFqpUqyZLoZf5zNfe3iog6Xq9u6z-Mq1B89P1dgXHY6Jo-GRYF_K9-Vehxm-m04dqJnDhmtsWpxiACc6QdY8KHoVJ/s320/006.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721414406194930226" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Broiled Grapefruit- Candle Cafe</span><br />This is my favourite way to eat pamplemousse, broiled with some sugar on top.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhktHNIOxByepKP2Y3_b-thIosGk9Sz7yUH-s9Gq1uS-YYC-hz2n2_i2gXXPe7aZYgpajx1bwbkiAkhq1dbn1syT3Qb8J9rhZFojc9FNd01Z6zESMOKHyRkmcgU_NAvCvO1K_H3/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhktHNIOxByepKP2Y3_b-thIosGk9Sz7yUH-s9Gq1uS-YYC-hz2n2_i2gXXPe7aZYgpajx1bwbkiAkhq1dbn1syT3Qb8J9rhZFojc9FNd01Z6zESMOKHyRkmcgU_NAvCvO1K_H3/s320/004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721414398365879922" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Skillet Lasagna- Supermarket Vegan</span><br />All the taste of lasagna without the fuss. This is all cooked in a pot, and it gets better as leftovers. We also tried it with Daiya cheese and it was delicious.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ZNKiQ1cxpVSMZmaO9MYR2n9V7DSDSIhbq1kd3LmHuwrABrJvh56VUOa0mvSjc2JoGrjKzK-ZMR-IJdzuV96rS3qVLExaFW2vFvmwZQZVNFdVRRDJjXtkqRVrfC8HRrl4HcVK/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ZNKiQ1cxpVSMZmaO9MYR2n9V7DSDSIhbq1kd3LmHuwrABrJvh56VUOa0mvSjc2JoGrjKzK-ZMR-IJdzuV96rS3qVLExaFW2vFvmwZQZVNFdVRRDJjXtkqRVrfC8HRrl4HcVK/s320/002.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721414391689458594" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Another breakfast item, whole wheat bagels with French onion "cream cheese" topped with bruschetta mix. I love savoury breakfasts! What's your favourite?<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieDBE2xYIF1iox-ZQS_lpKsRpEzxi3jQQoWu6bnhqk_44akuzBEI7O4QetDf3ULqxyFSJce0-h1Oqb44rTii4h277mvOyZ53HeCr5J-lTuwVGptDjyKRMup9RDCyDyMhbzyNbJ/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieDBE2xYIF1iox-ZQS_lpKsRpEzxi3jQQoWu6bnhqk_44akuzBEI7O4QetDf3ULqxyFSJce0-h1Oqb44rTii4h277mvOyZ53HeCr5J-lTuwVGptDjyKRMup9RDCyDyMhbzyNbJ/s320/001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721414379953302418" border="0" /></a>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-43549547833078888932012-03-11T20:54:00.006-04:002012-03-11T22:23:13.380-04:00Food OverloadI've got to post more often if I'm going to cook so much! Make sure you scroll down to the last post for my spring roll recipe :) It's March Break tomorrow, so I'm looking forward to cleaning the house, doing some cooking, and hanging out with friends. Billy's trying to eat vegan during the week (<a href="http://www.treehugger.com/green-food/try-a-weekday-vegetarian-diet-eat-green-food-without-taking-the-plunge.html">weekday vegetarian</a>), so I'm going out of my way to make hubby friendly foods to make it easy and fun for him. He's doing great!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Butternut Squash Ravioli with Sage Butter Sauce-Skinny Bitch Ultimate Everyday Cookbook</span><br />Labour intensive! Maybe next time I'll wait for a weekend to make these, but they were rather fun. The mix of squash with butter and vegan parm is a nice filling and the sauce is light. The dough is hard to roll out in one piece so I cut them into smaller pieces and then rolled out the squares. The dough is the best part! Billy's not a huge fan of squash so I made him a different filling.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh_BlveGDsgYfphnjztOH0Qtup4cOzRUc4u0TJiEAOruEzPvxyC84RznkIHDj6k2k0dponvd4FmUjGztFal8UXQVsURQgYaohrdrbNMZhdT7ie_BJCbFcq31pPEf3Op8HJTqa3/s1600/014.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh_BlveGDsgYfphnjztOH0Qtup4cOzRUc4u0TJiEAOruEzPvxyC84RznkIHDj6k2k0dponvd4FmUjGztFal8UXQVsURQgYaohrdrbNMZhdT7ie_BJCbFcq31pPEf3Op8HJTqa3/s320/014.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718808864626855362" border="0" /></a><br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">"Beef Ravioli"</span><br />This is just filled with Yves Italian Ground round, with sauteed garlic and some seasonings and topped with jarred tomato sauce. He loved it!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixcgvW0HxLxnd9ZA4Q8e3XMlmMXDvNzXI6F51nTSoxb2lc9ahaPx_pPfoVRNRXUeUfRSL_vLgZeeH2SaLRxGsNwpRwAqct0-VxWfA__ID25TQjzLvoacXBTmst0JPLEEj_hZOg/s1600/013.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixcgvW0HxLxnd9ZA4Q8e3XMlmMXDvNzXI6F51nTSoxb2lc9ahaPx_pPfoVRNRXUeUfRSL_vLgZeeH2SaLRxGsNwpRwAqct0-VxWfA__ID25TQjzLvoacXBTmst0JPLEEj_hZOg/s320/013.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718808856595581282" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cincinnati Style Chili Mac- <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Supermarket-Vegan-Meat-Free-Egg-Free-Dairy-Free/dp/0399535616">Supermarket Vegan</a></span><br />I got a new cookbook! I already have Vegan Italiano by Donna Klein and love it, so I thought I'd try this one. The concept is that you can find all the ingredients at the grocery store with no specialty products needed (as in fake cheese, milk or soy products). There's a lot of things in there that will appeal to picky eaters and husbands :P. So our first dish from the book was this dish, which is really a quick chili mixed with macaroni and then baked. It was spicy! I'll cut down the spice a bit next time but this was filling and yummy. Billy made the baked beans and macaroni casserole too (no picture), and he enjoyed it.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZL2caot9BqZ_NtuFsFxwyALfHPLM6IDEH-PoR89LTObgAHB-pF0w4lUh8wtSv4mVzw-CL688d4Wtfm_6AoStokGLauIfW9oQo1aeg5n1n9n0alv6H0a07RZheo8oM5ZtWo2HL/s1600/012.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZL2caot9BqZ_NtuFsFxwyALfHPLM6IDEH-PoR89LTObgAHB-pF0w4lUh8wtSv4mVzw-CL688d4Wtfm_6AoStokGLauIfW9oQo1aeg5n1n9n0alv6H0a07RZheo8oM5ZtWo2HL/s320/012.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718808849722442290" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Curried Udon Stir-Fry- Veganomicon</span><br />This is one of my favourite dishes from Veganomicon. It is so good! This is a dish that I made purely for my own enjoyment but Billy liked it too. I love those fat chewy udon noodles. It's stir fried veggies, PC meatless chicken (I used this instead of seitan), and a creamy curry sauce all mixed with udon noodles. Mmmmmm.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHZYJnNEaHOGlNl3QxgtZeYbLmN6A1r8FAzbf_CqshtG5YV3o8gog_BJqYrgZcxUIfYDzYIjo-Ax1yHd3CFkbh5uNKGCF2r9Jj75SIH6ROEFg8___zjPGsjsgd4W0AfiptvrNj/s1600/011.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHZYJnNEaHOGlNl3QxgtZeYbLmN6A1r8FAzbf_CqshtG5YV3o8gog_BJqYrgZcxUIfYDzYIjo-Ax1yHd3CFkbh5uNKGCF2r9Jj75SIH6ROEFg8___zjPGsjsgd4W0AfiptvrNj/s320/011.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718808847332528274" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lentil Tacos with Fresh Salsa- Skinny Bitch UEC</span><br />This was dinner tonight. Billy was worried about taco filling that didn't consist of some sort of "meat" replacement but he said these were delicious...and I concur! The lentils are blended into a kind of pate consistency and topped with fresh cherry tomato salsa and lettuce. The only change I would make would be to cook the green lentils a little less so they keep some of their crunchy texture. And some taco seasoning wouldn't hurt!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxp4vtQ_S8h59wbXwPO4VM1qyRAu67Kfq67xPDtOcTIsTpZkdP6HeM64_IK2joUXXre6AVOVED8uhBYUe1BQ_nCtva7LAxuxP0bSDVZTugvxbhCdHa48pQXs3-kb47qY93RQLp/s1600/015.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxp4vtQ_S8h59wbXwPO4VM1qyRAu67Kfq67xPDtOcTIsTpZkdP6HeM64_IK2joUXXre6AVOVED8uhBYUe1BQ_nCtva7LAxuxP0bSDVZTugvxbhCdHa48pQXs3-kb47qY93RQLp/s320/015.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718808867149079346" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I visited the health store recently and saw this So Delicious Cultured Coconut Milk (like Greek yogurt...thick!). I find it sour, which I think is normal for that style, but I loved it blended up in my morning fruit smoothie! I'd also try it with some granola, fruit and a touch of agave for sweetness.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGTurHS-ta2VC0M5FzoaAwwOJfQ7SyiXTQsVa6GgUE7dnQehdcCMwWZcItCDchEB3JcUzfnFyj1qQtlJBJmBw5CKzlWUjxScZx27Gir6xgOyXX2vnjfWM9Bb-Dy1Qun9UgHZ9i/s1600/007.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGTurHS-ta2VC0M5FzoaAwwOJfQ7SyiXTQsVa6GgUE7dnQehdcCMwWZcItCDchEB3JcUzfnFyj1qQtlJBJmBw5CKzlWUjxScZx27Gir6xgOyXX2vnjfWM9Bb-Dy1Qun9UgHZ9i/s320/007.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718808266995901618" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Butternut Mac and Cheese</span><br />I used the recipe <a href="http://www.escapefromobesity.net/2007/12/eat-your-veggies-butternut-mac-n-cheese.html">here</a> and really didn't change anything other than using soy milk and Daiya instead of milk and cheese. I also might have added some more milk to the cheese sauce. It was good! Super creamy. Next time I'm going to use my standard cheese sauce (from La Dolce Vegan) and just mix in the butternut squash, but the sauce from this recipe was good too. Billy didn't want to eat this as a meal since he doesn't love squash but he had a bite and said it was pretty good. Baby steps...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ofpd_Q5PSRrqRFlY9uEEZk7uwCm-4ppWIms9MlwzPf6iF29SbRxbLU-D9wxHcN_XyhD7AY0eCRUroc3f7-dOQJ-8wuoFol2b0IiHArWgQ01vvmfIctwfcVMMc2vW8DmEkTgq/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ofpd_Q5PSRrqRFlY9uEEZk7uwCm-4ppWIms9MlwzPf6iF29SbRxbLU-D9wxHcN_XyhD7AY0eCRUroc3f7-dOQJ-8wuoFol2b0IiHArWgQ01vvmfIctwfcVMMc2vW8DmEkTgq/s320/006.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718808257407150450" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Blood Orange and Peppercorn Sorbet- Skinny Bitch UEC</span><br />Yep, black pepper in sorbet! Whole peppercorns are simmered with the juice, but are strained out before freezing. It's not really obvious in the taste, I think it just enhances the blood orange juice. This has a gorgeous colour and is really sweet! I'm still in love with my ice cream maker.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVY5H4QlJGzPRbOC-5v5kFjj7u5HFW0eIXGtGgaTVp5MAR19IVfCktjBBWue86PKjX5RwZ9AmLGg5kVGH7a0eR9PEuocLRTm-Bi8i3lGUNGfzloLlEDbPLBxos_pb7v4llMwg/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVY5H4QlJGzPRbOC-5v5kFjj7u5HFW0eIXGtGgaTVp5MAR19IVfCktjBBWue86PKjX5RwZ9AmLGg5kVGH7a0eR9PEuocLRTm-Bi8i3lGUNGfzloLlEDbPLBxos_pb7v4llMwg/s320/004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718808251736725442" border="0" /></a><br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Spinach Feta Pizza</span><br />When I was younger and we went to the fair/exhibition in our old city, I always got a slice of spinach feta pizza and it was magical (back before my vegan days). I had a pang for it last Sunday, and we all know everything can be veganized (well, except meringue...sigh...). Garden of Vegan has an awesome tofu feta recipe, which is also awesome in pitas. So I made that, let it marinate, steamed up some spinach, and sprinkled it on my pizza before adding Daiya mozzarella. It hit the spot! The dough was made in the breadmaker my Gramma gave me...so good!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ2a0VWOBGoTD2y9qZ4mktO4SYk9qIeT_y2Va0kEJ2UYtsSCoIBd_ZyJofSOy7Zd3V4dN1iuBv5zIWVmEH7mdkOJtBygoZ05w1IYuPHnMrEE91FF9lG9g-I89BEGF0s-jvg0-u/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ2a0VWOBGoTD2y9qZ4mktO4SYk9qIeT_y2Va0kEJ2UYtsSCoIBd_ZyJofSOy7Zd3V4dN1iuBv5zIWVmEH7mdkOJtBygoZ05w1IYuPHnMrEE91FF9lG9g-I89BEGF0s-jvg0-u/s320/001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718808243504558818" border="0" /></a><br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Black Bean Enchiladas- Skinny Bitch UEC</span><br />I cannot, for the life of me, find corn tortillas in my town, so I had to use small flour tortillas, but these were tasty! These got the husband stamp of approval too.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyhZoMLzP1qBYkvkI2XjBd1Hsuym4uwbjWSnV-s3o2XqJ01XRvoaX2EEy7x0IYFzBFq211fAuEK1FgOcaON_EMdQYfWfHyySlHfEqvEEGoCgtfjTKahfsVOHMweeyD3f4dBeDx/s1600/009.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyhZoMLzP1qBYkvkI2XjBd1Hsuym4uwbjWSnV-s3o2XqJ01XRvoaX2EEy7x0IYFzBFq211fAuEK1FgOcaON_EMdQYfWfHyySlHfEqvEEGoCgtfjTKahfsVOHMweeyD3f4dBeDx/s320/009.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718808272115047794" border="0" /></a><br /><br />On the menu this week: leftover ravioli, skillet lasagna, chicken BBQ skewers with herb citrus sauce. and maybe some mac and cheese :)<br /><br />Happy Cooking!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-72626234776639997692012-03-11T20:44:00.003-04:002012-03-11T20:54:05.165-04:00Spring RollsHere's the recipe we used to make homemade spring rolls for my birthday. We don't deep fry stuff at home but it was an occasion :) Next time, we want to try this filling in rice paper rolls to make them healthier.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3W-K1EzTKOaoGss_L0DWoHM_v_ipRSEv4Pq17A_bAhW0ONp5O7n3-b9RJbUb50cYAIkeQKXyyHSGwyUP5AyaOeNyWi4ve21L-wn3S71bRyt3CxV8D2-4Htx402e-zKjw6JvJm/s1600/028.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3W-K1EzTKOaoGss_L0DWoHM_v_ipRSEv4Pq17A_bAhW0ONp5O7n3-b9RJbUb50cYAIkeQKXyyHSGwyUP5AyaOeNyWi4ve21L-wn3S71bRyt3CxV8D2-4Htx402e-zKjw6JvJm/s320/028.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718807387199521666" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Spring Rolls</span> (makes up to 24 spring rolls)<br />Frozen spring roll wrappers(Spring Home Tyj is the brand we had), defrosted<br />1 1/4 cup chopped carrots<br />3 1/2 cups shredded cabbage<br />2 bundles clear noodles (bean thread)<br />1 teaspoon white pepper powder<br />2 cloves garlic, minced<br />4-5 tablespoons light soy sauce<br />3 cups vegetable oil (for frying)<br />1/4 cup plum sauce mixed with red chili pepper jelly<br /><br />1. Soak the bean thread noodles in hot water until soft. Remove from water and cut the bundle into four or five pieces.<br />2. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan/wok. Turn heat down to med-high. Add minced garlic and saute a minute.<br />3. Add carrots, noodles. Mix them well.<br />4. Add cabbage and mix well. Stir until cooked.<br />5. Add white pepper powder and soy sauce. Stir well.<br />6. Put the filling into a bowl. Set aside to cool down.<br />7. Lay a wrapper in front of you with a corner pointing towards you and spread 2 tablespoons of the filling horizontally. Fold the bottom of the wrapper up over the filling and gently press it down. Fold in both sides of the wrapper and continue to roll the spring roll towards the top. Brush the top corner with a bit of soymilk or water to seal.<br />8. Heat oil until hot. Turn heat down to med.<br />9. Deep fry a few rolls at a time until they turn golden brown, flipping them in the oil if needed.<br />10. Drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil<br />11. Serve with plum sauce and enjoy!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-16604313684420893192012-02-26T18:58:00.006-05:002012-02-26T19:29:10.236-05:00My Thai BirthdayAnother birthday has come and gone...and with it, some delicious food. Before I get to that, here's some other dishes I made in the past two weeks.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Curried Rice Salad- Skinny Bitch Ultimate Everyday Cookbook</span><br />This book continues to impress me, I haven't come across anything that I didn't love. This dish has a creamy dressing, with raw veggies. Billy liked it too, so double win!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVVca2Qzw7hoMqJjfDUtfd38ib3Nw9qYqOuwAQHtNLw2nzy-Lc5pTrFmimmq-qi8be-jg8KsS3TW0mHpTFfgJ8ORRbOFIqtGu_O1L7d8AhvQO02EdHjpzy8uO56M4eJF_fEePV/s1600/016.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVVca2Qzw7hoMqJjfDUtfd38ib3Nw9qYqOuwAQHtNLw2nzy-Lc5pTrFmimmq-qi8be-jg8KsS3TW0mHpTFfgJ8ORRbOFIqtGu_O1L7d8AhvQO02EdHjpzy8uO56M4eJF_fEePV/s320/016.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713598499401036674" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Banana Ice Cream- The Vegan Scoop</span><br />This is good with some chocolate chips mixed in.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu_Pp4R1WfAzPvUCgizT0F9SrwlcKO9gkydKffp_2UtHpXpyl-f_P3iAcE4Edf71SpngdsPZvsYh5bC-zIzJ-88lPPepOdmRlhyphenhyphenDbRyvxAZ72ZYCNbs4mYMeRIFjCxjPUddBZT/s1600/015.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu_Pp4R1WfAzPvUCgizT0F9SrwlcKO9gkydKffp_2UtHpXpyl-f_P3iAcE4Edf71SpngdsPZvsYh5bC-zIzJ-88lPPepOdmRlhyphenhyphenDbRyvxAZ72ZYCNbs4mYMeRIFjCxjPUddBZT/s320/015.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713598497180426610" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Black Bean and Tomato Soup- Skinny Bitch UEC</span><br />This has plenty of veggies and a bit of kick. It gets a really nice creaminess from blending half the soup.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_WWUTKEGXzqwiHVtdP91poJDDlNdhfRrrntYzGT9jZ1JcmJFvzxOxnmBIeHwBbndUZRXGUxOgbMkadLoNGHCvyU8j5-xUkssuuo7r4MXWhcidWFnHuH3q7dEHKqMXdY8hFJfu/s1600/020.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_WWUTKEGXzqwiHVtdP91poJDDlNdhfRrrntYzGT9jZ1JcmJFvzxOxnmBIeHwBbndUZRXGUxOgbMkadLoNGHCvyU8j5-xUkssuuo7r4MXWhcidWFnHuH3q7dEHKqMXdY8hFJfu/s320/020.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713598515129989202" border="0" /></a><br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Vegan Cassoulet- Skinny Bitch UEC</span><br />French for casserole, this cassoulet is great comfort food. It has leeks and white beans. It's kind of like a pot pie filling topped with bread crumbs.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVKC1eQn9rtoysil7yVkQtrBi2PDGRAS9eswPrMaea0Gl3x-oGkYGUtCN_9pH2eM1shUXKlYs8rTOXwUv8cw9G3pJNeByhbQCAUJ8BxTPDpDQUobJDHHjpsruYuzv_kZ2r5AbO/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVKC1eQn9rtoysil7yVkQtrBi2PDGRAS9eswPrMaea0Gl3x-oGkYGUtCN_9pH2eM1shUXKlYs8rTOXwUv8cw9G3pJNeByhbQCAUJ8BxTPDpDQUobJDHHjpsruYuzv_kZ2r5AbO/s320/001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713598491927318498" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Caramelized Pear and Cheese Crostini with Balsamic Reduction- Skinny Bitch UEC</span><br />I made these for my birthday party yesterday.....I would buy the cookbook for this recipe alone. It was a perfect combination of chewy crunchy bread, savoury cream cheese and chives, sweet pear and a kick of balsamic zing.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6SeULabRVDPXHyRKFVz_aVmmmy1ROxS12RtlueicI6AVCKLNoHDWfMDsCSyXqpVOocdGmqwr3zHiQNjapE4zVGheWAw2XAMwqCHT1O8yw25iGUgTGmNfHmnb-zc9W-Cm1G2Qe/s1600/035.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6SeULabRVDPXHyRKFVz_aVmmmy1ROxS12RtlueicI6AVCKLNoHDWfMDsCSyXqpVOocdGmqwr3zHiQNjapE4zVGheWAw2XAMwqCHT1O8yw25iGUgTGmNfHmnb-zc9W-Cm1G2Qe/s320/035.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713602496033989426" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Vegan Donuts!</span><br />Billy surprised me with these from a new bakery downtown. They were nice. It tasted like banana bread in donut form :P<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEWiW0-n0cstv8YEPW6EOrhywGcDnsuVso7t9n5APn4izD2BLlwcttBSocwgooswck3eBqJ6e8MiYKwMOr_8ft1EnboYTp7d3JCMaIFbBXXzg77M0nVthn9gHbHGG3f5zanXnh/s1600/030.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEWiW0-n0cstv8YEPW6EOrhywGcDnsuVso7t9n5APn4izD2BLlwcttBSocwgooswck3eBqJ6e8MiYKwMOr_8ft1EnboYTp7d3JCMaIFbBXXzg77M0nVthn9gHbHGG3f5zanXnh/s320/030.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713602250978515330" border="0" /></a><br /><br />We made spring rolls for my birthday dinner. Correction, Billy made them and I helped a little :) I'll be posting the recipe soon.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmcTRhLTfLRnI2VU1ExSWCAKdbqkszfHJLM5nkMkojwPt1JSY6gJ4Tep0a9rd3t8h4HVDv61cJbCJY652eYsXa6S8XdtpYbV3X6EW6LanWYoGcnT7VbxxkWHJj96NFm0c_MTG-/s1600/028.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmcTRhLTfLRnI2VU1ExSWCAKdbqkszfHJLM5nkMkojwPt1JSY6gJ4Tep0a9rd3t8h4HVDv61cJbCJY652eYsXa6S8XdtpYbV3X6EW6LanWYoGcnT7VbxxkWHJj96NFm0c_MTG-/s320/028.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713602245500741986" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSGM8HfZyT-7igMP7QVycfsQMG4I50rurYlMgK6vOOXJMAa26-BvlL1ACt4uiTE3rq20hLSl8pQVM7LOS7coKdvTl4xAp2pzQDg3QyIM9gkpedp2BTNrmd9x8n2muge_o4u_h1/s1600/023.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSGM8HfZyT-7igMP7QVycfsQMG4I50rurYlMgK6vOOXJMAa26-BvlL1ACt4uiTE3rq20hLSl8pQVM7LOS7coKdvTl4xAp2pzQDg3QyIM9gkpedp2BTNrmd9x8n2muge_o4u_h1/s320/023.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713602242451671602" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk8Z80AoWLLXVp9Xo-YxZ7p4M1-8i4sp74gjXrGJ8JO617bTvKhEWLKKP8vKnOfe1El24KPK6koEtIDE4mWKv5CMDsEtLEFOiEhlnaUv2Iw26FcmSWfkOhZLJx7187u5RnYhav/s1600/022.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk8Z80AoWLLXVp9Xo-YxZ7p4M1-8i4sp74gjXrGJ8JO617bTvKhEWLKKP8vKnOfe1El24KPK6koEtIDE4mWKv5CMDsEtLEFOiEhlnaUv2Iw26FcmSWfkOhZLJx7187u5RnYhav/s320/022.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713602208257671634" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Pad Thai- 125 Best Vegan Recipes<br />This is tasty, I love the mix of sweet and sour. Next time I make it, I'll be crisping up the tofu.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh14zHd_IEcrCbIQlgFOYSvUSi9LRRGQ3RF7kELXzoVVYdB-V0AdkSK8QtrdVIRO-v2m9XWSL1NJ_9ZnEaXWlVot77YG4QgMztemUBs9Gozhj19r1ngSK-w86ckMNH0wMwisHq3/s1600/032.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh14zHd_IEcrCbIQlgFOYSvUSi9LRRGQ3RF7kELXzoVVYdB-V0AdkSK8QtrdVIRO-v2m9XWSL1NJ_9ZnEaXWlVot77YG4QgMztemUBs9Gozhj19r1ngSK-w86ckMNH0wMwisHq3/s320/032.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713602259796333762" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Here's our girlies....they get along fantastically :)<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU5qIHp605aDH2vHISWiEBsYQ08StOU12qEz4cRCt5BgX4MalOMv85W5VtOLYrB_S_YjIzNlqnqb7ijvMirDT4ICCK6JxjLRWEn_cIuAVKFGTFXSfY-I4I7MFxgAPOAnAuTDvu/s1600/018.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU5qIHp605aDH2vHISWiEBsYQ08StOU12qEz4cRCt5BgX4MalOMv85W5VtOLYrB_S_YjIzNlqnqb7ijvMirDT4ICCK6JxjLRWEn_cIuAVKFGTFXSfY-I4I7MFxgAPOAnAuTDvu/s320/018.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713598505501714658" border="0" /></a>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-20690245647626606382012-02-16T09:26:00.005-05:002012-02-16T10:04:21.150-05:00New cookbook motivation...I don't know why it took so long, but I'm loving this balance I've found between working full time, and cooking dinners in the evening! Now, I just need to throw a more regular cleaning schedule into the mix ;) I'm still in love with my new Skinny Bitch cookbook, so most of the meals here will be from there.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Asian Macaroni and Cheese- Skinny Bitch Ultimate Every Cookbook</span><br />So good! There's no vegan cheese in it. It's cauliflower cooked with milk and water, and blended with some asian inspired flavourings. There's also sauteed tofu and cauliflower bits. The only change I made was to sub plain soymilk instead of coconut milk.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtNNSGMAUmRQ_TNSQCUHbqcgTmUVNAC6jr8mrN7hBTZ1pxXMWtdiBl4GTBkr-Vkn_QD3tJdL-bFNMHImHf7J5im-TX7ZXZKP58wgn6UqYV4yEw5zqFZ7h1xoTxBe2YVrOrU6Tr/s1600/023.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtNNSGMAUmRQ_TNSQCUHbqcgTmUVNAC6jr8mrN7hBTZ1pxXMWtdiBl4GTBkr-Vkn_QD3tJdL-bFNMHImHf7J5im-TX7ZXZKP58wgn6UqYV4yEw5zqFZ7h1xoTxBe2YVrOrU6Tr/s320/023.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709742151102526530" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Eggless Brown Fried Rice with Garlic Infusion- Skinny Bitch UEC</span><br />I knew this was good when I watched Billy scarf it down in about ten bites without stopping. There's no greater satisfaction for this cook than watching my hubby devour something. It came together really quickly too, since you saute the ingredients then add in cooked rice. We had this with a side of teriyaki sauce.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl3xMy0ArrwEvBjxQ7tj_P22oJL-OpFeWsZN05MA8IiijOiMKF2qsr3MKaC7KNdxCFz0dpxB4g0OLaru73Fau7hd09SXprNOo_A_rt83uDXfwisq34AmGbv8Sby7eYvaPvfJjF/s1600/021.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl3xMy0ArrwEvBjxQ7tj_P22oJL-OpFeWsZN05MA8IiijOiMKF2qsr3MKaC7KNdxCFz0dpxB4g0OLaru73Fau7hd09SXprNOo_A_rt83uDXfwisq34AmGbv8Sby7eYvaPvfJjF/s320/021.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709742141730903330" border="0" /></a><br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Red Bean and Barley Bowl- Skinny Bitch UEC</span><br />I love barley, so I always like trying dishes that feature it and aren't necessarily soup. This is good hot or cold.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqWF8ji8vrxoyvAEw4_lFq05P7Cd8XzC5viegXCvR9Qmrby3sy75VL9_WrftrRVugc6FpUTPYhbBzYihtVo1VnatLkKZKKdyasTDu3Mzm7orN5wJFZoeSDjDqG24FDGUocUOaM/s1600/018.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqWF8ji8vrxoyvAEw4_lFq05P7Cd8XzC5viegXCvR9Qmrby3sy75VL9_WrftrRVugc6FpUTPYhbBzYihtVo1VnatLkKZKKdyasTDu3Mzm7orN5wJFZoeSDjDqG24FDGUocUOaM/s320/018.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709742113277526130" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I'm back to casual/part-time hours at work, so some mornings I have some extra time to make yummy breakfasts. This morning, I made a fried tofu "egg" breakfast sandwich, using a recipe from Garden of Vegan for the tofu (nutritional yeast, salt and pepper). I like to slice the tofu really thin so it crisps up and I don't get a mouthful of mushy plain tofu in the middle. I served it on an english muffin with a touch of Vegenaise and ketchup.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiDEf8qFxGa5wcYflRXP19elzSklPq-tLoM_GEPa-xCPGi1lHpyA90rCynP7pLprw9t5hpBNsOJ5j09O9ZGau2Y-KytAo4kiEOhVrgStjBe-8Iybqe4VP_BScMOGm6IPkB3kLz/s1600/025.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiDEf8qFxGa5wcYflRXP19elzSklPq-tLoM_GEPa-xCPGi1lHpyA90rCynP7pLprw9t5hpBNsOJ5j09O9ZGau2Y-KytAo4kiEOhVrgStjBe-8Iybqe4VP_BScMOGm6IPkB3kLz/s320/025.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709742160627194562" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Corn Chowder- Skinny Bitch UEC<br />Mmmmmmmm. The mix of almond milk and vegetable broth is perfect...just a touch of creaminess. This if filled with onions, potatoes and corn, and it's so tasty.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAehXSvLLlQA1JmugB-SZEXliw8vhnXtCNm3MGbUl_zIGWwWgEKj8T3kR1-rAzGOAf0cje3jU_YilxZkYmMlEdSNn_JAqgyow9c5JuTptDj5RSV_B07omlkJsHqW4Nsw8lTGYG/s1600/013.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAehXSvLLlQA1JmugB-SZEXliw8vhnXtCNm3MGbUl_zIGWwWgEKj8T3kR1-rAzGOAf0cje3jU_YilxZkYmMlEdSNn_JAqgyow9c5JuTptDj5RSV_B07omlkJsHqW4Nsw8lTGYG/s320/013.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709740977335346002" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream- The Vegan Scoop</span><br />This flavour is dangerous. A reasonable serving size calorie-wise is quite small, but we measured portions into freezer bags to help with that. Billy wants this flavour as a constant in our freezer....but I think that might be a bad idea ;)<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjApZ2XbJtpfoj44yCW60wyRQE7Cs325EK9wu_auq1jrT9pMG8UDNVzDlZ4vpuk7wT7wVXEQLvK66yPFXh3Ln04BB61AbdWVKKWp6bCzhapyyEJJFtB-uSTC2d701nwh0FRY5f/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjApZ2XbJtpfoj44yCW60wyRQE7Cs325EK9wu_auq1jrT9pMG8UDNVzDlZ4vpuk7wT7wVXEQLvK66yPFXh3Ln04BB61AbdWVKKWp6bCzhapyyEJJFtB-uSTC2d701nwh0FRY5f/s320/006.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709740966027873378" border="0" /></a><br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Spaghetti with a White Wine Garlic Sauce- Skinny Bitch UEC</span><br />This has mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes, and a very satisfying white wine garlic sauce. Makes great leftovers too. It took a bit longer than I'm used to for a pasta dish, since you have to cook the onion garlic mix separately from the wine spinach mix, etc, but well worth it.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi72oZf1Fa4vErAyWjhVElsuw5wfijuTxLEdG3wND_SqfporZDWkFui-bnxTEu9gailHoqtjHKU0VR0eMpHDF8H3MqEBBn9ULcOsqem4xxTcnuIm47UGt4NgrUITEs29h3chWi/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi72oZf1Fa4vErAyWjhVElsuw5wfijuTxLEdG3wND_SqfporZDWkFui-bnxTEu9gailHoqtjHKU0VR0eMpHDF8H3MqEBBn9ULcOsqem4xxTcnuIm47UGt4NgrUITEs29h3chWi/s320/004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709740959241317026" border="0" /></a><br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Roasted Curried Cauliflower- Skinny Bitch UEC</span><br />This is one of the recipes in the book that has a full page picture beside it. I have to say, based on the picture, this wasn't as yummy as I was hoping, but I think next time I'll cook it longer so it's a bit more tender and takes in more of the curry.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzFpk55TBSl68FB7P_Cz9HknXPS3UtakddPvboqckp-o5iRhVnJqxYDuV5en311DQQriY3ywZTEnwhsDO33ndjfjmKvqTAXZ8QOvOINP5tQQAuu315NRn1UQj4Cp1_siYRxW-u/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzFpk55TBSl68FB7P_Cz9HknXPS3UtakddPvboqckp-o5iRhVnJqxYDuV5en311DQQriY3ywZTEnwhsDO33ndjfjmKvqTAXZ8QOvOINP5tQQAuu315NRn1UQj4Cp1_siYRxW-u/s320/002.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709740949486929426" border="0" /></a><br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Seven Layer Nacho Dip- Quick and Easy Vegan Comfort Food</span><br />In the book its six layers, but I added a melted cheese sauce layer. This was our Superbowl indulgence. It's got guacamole, salsa, lettuce, sour cream mixed with taco seasoning and refried beans.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihA9oayBy29tpMHWWE3WByMO6kWB6G6jqvhGqqGHN28WxuM4IFpzkhxFa3DmePuuun4kIF7WEdaOvVZMqYq7bIQcBo5ncYyNY262ijDb_kP1dWGQ_w55yxSAAdZPbgoXTPNqeM/s1600/017.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihA9oayBy29tpMHWWE3WByMO6kWB6G6jqvhGqqGHN28WxuM4IFpzkhxFa3DmePuuun4kIF7WEdaOvVZMqYq7bIQcBo5ncYyNY262ijDb_kP1dWGQ_w55yxSAAdZPbgoXTPNqeM/s320/017.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709740984728541682" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Happy Cooking!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-33658815462700706852012-01-29T11:55:00.011-05:002012-01-29T12:21:46.733-05:00Plant a radish, get a radish, never any doubt. That's why I love vegetables, you know what they're about!Gah! Food overload! When I get in the groove like this, I really need to update more often. My days are filled with yummy, nutritious, healthy whole foods, and I'm loving it. Let's get to it...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Scottish Broth-The Vegan Table</span><br />"Broth" in Scotland actually means stew...go figure. This is a delicious soup, and very easy to make. You throw all the ingredients in a pot (after soaking the barley, red lentils and green split peas) and simmer until done. I love barley!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9IUFnrKyadKH4UK3-J5Z8w-djIIQTg_Ss70Rah2DcJ5wZcSgN70Y_m_yXUl1RqwdasEWvF8XGzMJ6HOAmHlcRJaVBe4Ch_aMO5c_p5GJY8eKcAyGr9ZouIry9lMNG4xclgndO/s1600/020.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9IUFnrKyadKH4UK3-J5Z8w-djIIQTg_Ss70Rah2DcJ5wZcSgN70Y_m_yXUl1RqwdasEWvF8XGzMJ6HOAmHlcRJaVBe4Ch_aMO5c_p5GJY8eKcAyGr9ZouIry9lMNG4xclgndO/s320/020.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703101625175829906" border="0" /></a><br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Creole Stuffed Pepper and Messy Rice- Veganomicon</span><br />I've made stuffed peppers a handful of times in the last 12 months, and every time they are different. Gotta love variety. I left out the jalapeno so I don't know how "creole" these are anymore, but they're filling and the bean mixture is tasty. The messy rice is made with crushed coriander seeds (lemony!) and jasmine rice.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUT5fDOerSyKv2Urdlin7g3wvL4C6lfvcGq01eGM2gGzanZWlZz9gx3r6e6xdsec-2YM0uPVSGwVezFyHpSrb81uJlf2rFxk602tu_t-p3UsSeHQnkR2Pd4zWyE6tepIKjDdl9/s1600/017.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUT5fDOerSyKv2Urdlin7g3wvL4C6lfvcGq01eGM2gGzanZWlZz9gx3r6e6xdsec-2YM0uPVSGwVezFyHpSrb81uJlf2rFxk602tu_t-p3UsSeHQnkR2Pd4zWyE6tepIKjDdl9/s320/017.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703101206611771298" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXGqlgy2znQqoyKqavXk3fzjxDN5OKR_tz0TUxGVAJH630Zc-C_XD163jzvXijk7J3hsRL8T7kfxZ8vwKFoBv9DBRNtf3ZIcQJqPQAf9uJlKigBHIfa-c87rAlCVjcGpdcV97M/s1600/015.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXGqlgy2znQqoyKqavXk3fzjxDN5OKR_tz0TUxGVAJH630Zc-C_XD163jzvXijk7J3hsRL8T7kfxZ8vwKFoBv9DBRNtf3ZIcQJqPQAf9uJlKigBHIfa-c87rAlCVjcGpdcV97M/s320/015.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703101201322370386" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream- The Vegan Scoop</span><br />The only downside to this e-book cookbook so far is that I can't write my recipe notes in it! This ice cream is so good! I added the green food colouring just to make it more like store-bought ice cream :) I made this using all soy-based milk and creamer. Next time, I will experiment with coconut and almond milk.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhta1O34BEIXBxBWw9nIP1rIN93g_SeHEftlW9mnmpnEQcBzB_WOvvzMNWb5c-_3cbtAFqGEaNeqpIEiT-bBtsY3nPgYtV7rS5iFFf-SN9hYCB2MyZeGRlAPVfBGCpIsxeN_Vwo/s1600/014.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhta1O34BEIXBxBWw9nIP1rIN93g_SeHEftlW9mnmpnEQcBzB_WOvvzMNWb5c-_3cbtAFqGEaNeqpIEiT-bBtsY3nPgYtV7rS5iFFf-SN9hYCB2MyZeGRlAPVfBGCpIsxeN_Vwo/s320/014.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703101189956685858" border="0" /></a><br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chili- The Vegan Slow Cooker</span><br />I added another cup of tomato sauce when I got home, since it dried out a bit. Billy and I loved this chili, and it was great as Sloppy Joe filling too.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP-20LigCE5zig4roA_djiPW_UjYJbCw51cA2bBjU9p2ImJOaDid0qI4uG50S-1dBA6X_ax6cBP6LxopLeiwNpzxIegZc9ieOQD-DgwGoK9aLs_s9QnjzH8nGRAfSVLGk-AqOw/s1600/013.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP-20LigCE5zig4roA_djiPW_UjYJbCw51cA2bBjU9p2ImJOaDid0qI4uG50S-1dBA6X_ax6cBP6LxopLeiwNpzxIegZc9ieOQD-DgwGoK9aLs_s9QnjzH8nGRAfSVLGk-AqOw/s320/013.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703101185536266098" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Breakfast Bake- Skinny Bitch</span><br />My first recipe from my new cook book, Skinny Bitch Ultimate Everyday Guide. I sauteed the potato, onion and tempeh bacon filling yesterday, and just popped it in the oven this morning for a delicious and filling breakfast. I also had a side of fresh fruit salad from the Vegan Table (no picture).<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhseY134hBj6fm0gt6MFrMr552yvUqF-MZfLOPWRTvodYCAmufeYle3f3TveVrKoUdjb1zKo-7Dp3p96gq-GKnKCY4KHXo4WxU6spk76zN71pNkPuiSOKPziEYInwtrz8qXZguy/s1600/022.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhseY134hBj6fm0gt6MFrMr552yvUqF-MZfLOPWRTvodYCAmufeYle3f3TveVrKoUdjb1zKo-7Dp3p96gq-GKnKCY4KHXo4WxU6spk76zN71pNkPuiSOKPziEYInwtrz8qXZguy/s320/022.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703101219546227218" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chicken Gnocchi Soup- a modified recipe</span><br />The only thing I love more than a good vegan cookbook is veganizing recipes on my own! One night I felt like having gnocchi, but didn't want the typical gnocchi and pasta sauce. So I went on my allrecipes app and searched for recipes with gnocchi. I found a recipe for a creamy chicken and gnocchi soup. So I subbed out the cream and chicken with vegan subsitutes, and OH MY GOD, this is my new favourite soup. I'll post the recipe one of these days!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTiNqvNuoTg2jGk1LDNvtIcV5jUifAjF1HnW8V-OBra5EtsIHO9D8n4QflTk7cTy3uLBAo4ivvE2Z8-ruj3ZdauAwWhD38NsDvyM0zTOnq_7t2a9QLQBxYg3CNBuRabNC31sJs/s1600/008.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTiNqvNuoTg2jGk1LDNvtIcV5jUifAjF1HnW8V-OBra5EtsIHO9D8n4QflTk7cTy3uLBAo4ivvE2Z8-ruj3ZdauAwWhD38NsDvyM0zTOnq_7t2a9QLQBxYg3CNBuRabNC31sJs/s320/008.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703099469463302098" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chicken Salad- Skinny Bitch in the Kitch</span><br />A vegan mayo-based chicken salad, served on greens. I used PC's meatless chicken. Yum!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXULt-I4ocjMvanEUCG6s12wqxU1Kf-nub_0ivCvONEi5JFkvKbom4zBWQOu4-ABSBuSlQdMQdS1VdQkXvtvuEFmbEuqmx0t51-qXCQZ2vGPjKYXD95Ktjo17m0lrU2xgYSB9/s1600/005.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXULt-I4ocjMvanEUCG6s12wqxU1Kf-nub_0ivCvONEi5JFkvKbom4zBWQOu4-ABSBuSlQdMQdS1VdQkXvtvuEFmbEuqmx0t51-qXCQZ2vGPjKYXD95Ktjo17m0lrU2xgYSB9/s320/005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703099461404650130" border="0" /></a><br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">No-Chicken Noodle Soup- Vegan Slow Cooker</span><br />This didn't have much broth left by the time I got home, but it was a very simple and tasty "chicken" soup for dinner.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR14RQ0l07S7cBE49o_W0Cnt5qiY-yNbASH8TlVLfuyHsp4PMkbDlN-EAIY5XQU79KBFXG6wmhYJRHX6suSf2mqE-tBFYUJyHwSeYEWCrfYXTsv6OkIw4D2aVLLAig5t7HJV6v/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR14RQ0l07S7cBE49o_W0Cnt5qiY-yNbASH8TlVLfuyHsp4PMkbDlN-EAIY5XQU79KBFXG6wmhYJRHX6suSf2mqE-tBFYUJyHwSeYEWCrfYXTsv6OkIw4D2aVLLAig5t7HJV6v/s320/004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703099456386835618" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pizza</span>-<span style="font-weight: bold;"> The Vegan Lunch Box</span><br />I've been using the pizza dough recipe from Vegan Lunch Box the last few Sundays, because you can mix it up and then stick it in the fridge until you're ready to use it...which fits perfectly into our lazy Sundays. Plus, we make individual sized pizzas for portion control, and they're cute! This one had soy pepperoni, green peppers and Daiya mozzarella.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheLkLBpcJ4wIbyhbpyNex8YrSTfpV5pgapDpqqnbRk1HkrA26Tf4N-yBdK9S9for_xIBvkxRGqbzTMasSsjixjIz4uV6PFUKydzS-vfL2O-bwG1kg5Z5ouJd8g8GGbRzvr93Cv/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheLkLBpcJ4wIbyhbpyNex8YrSTfpV5pgapDpqqnbRk1HkrA26Tf4N-yBdK9S9for_xIBvkxRGqbzTMasSsjixjIz4uV6PFUKydzS-vfL2O-bwG1kg5Z5ouJd8g8GGbRzvr93Cv/s320/003.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703099453275163730" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Applesauce Muffins- How It All Vegan</span><br />These are very midly flavoured, with applesauce and cinnamon, but they are so fluffly and light.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtChzyTMY8gM8QSqBmTxCL5Keve9smm3QwPV_2jvrKzw_0zVAWTTGxZonHvJ5OcScU3n-kAH3gnzWNhiwPK00GIKGkY9xqntkWLtOFNfJvzcT97-gsidk4BYDdEnTlWQVMZ0-H/s1600/011.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtChzyTMY8gM8QSqBmTxCL5Keve9smm3QwPV_2jvrKzw_0zVAWTTGxZonHvJ5OcScU3n-kAH3gnzWNhiwPK00GIKGkY9xqntkWLtOFNfJvzcT97-gsidk4BYDdEnTlWQVMZ0-H/s320/011.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703099481546500002" border="0" /></a>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-3440264667644869332012-01-22T14:44:00.003-05:002012-01-22T14:47:44.327-05:00New Cookbook!I used a gift card to get a new cookbook yesterday! I got Skinny Bitch- Ultimate Everyday Cookbook by Kim Barnouin. I already have their first Skinny Bitch book and Skinny Bitch in the Kitch, so I thought I would try this one out. The recipes sound great and the pictures look good enough to eat.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMWHL8pdUzYZn_sX4rbCalPf4tzHvvRLwWBVjlcIgODXDLWg6O7-0Vrv13LL8_kPRF5-C5QfkBGY0R2kwcdRAkvf9wOip-N21pFacgF2ltr8LOLLMlMt5VxzfgZbbjjRnx1f1u/s1600/skinny+bitch.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 254px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMWHL8pdUzYZn_sX4rbCalPf4tzHvvRLwWBVjlcIgODXDLWg6O7-0Vrv13LL8_kPRF5-C5QfkBGY0R2kwcdRAkvf9wOip-N21pFacgF2ltr8LOLLMlMt5VxzfgZbbjjRnx1f1u/s320/skinny+bitch.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700545225913775138" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Does anyone have any recommendations on what I should try first??Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20589948.post-68040881052951441862012-01-08T16:09:00.003-05:002012-01-08T16:30:45.154-05:00Poorly Lit FoodThis week off before I go back to work has been awesome!! I've done lots of cooking, walking, and general activities that make me happy. I've also done a little knitting, but nothing major since I'm experiencing a bit of burnout after the Christmas knitting season!<br /><br />This is a just a scarf made with Firefly yarn. I generally am over scarves but I only had two balls of this beautiful yarn and don't wear shawls. The lace pattern in intricate enough to keep me interested though.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6R5vXVsGEqw2K_7uWNAfu35epgUhV4UfHSWujfDzkcCToHMv1xH0MUC087ZeseHHpsdBMQJEs_bm3JWLD3nBspvVNpz5KEPZ47TzaH_iwl5KoG-dcnI3UhAulCziXblbV7g6A/s1600/013.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6R5vXVsGEqw2K_7uWNAfu35epgUhV4UfHSWujfDzkcCToHMv1xH0MUC087ZeseHHpsdBMQJEs_bm3JWLD3nBspvVNpz5KEPZ47TzaH_iwl5KoG-dcnI3UhAulCziXblbV7g6A/s320/013.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695372349666079474" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Before I get into the food, I apologize for the poorly lit/dim photos. I hate the lack of natural light due to winter and most of my food is made in the evenings. I will try to do better!<br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Linguine with roasted peppers, tomatoes and garlic- Vegan Italiano</span><br />Green peppers, garlic, diced tomatoes are roasted with olive oil and seasonings to make this delicious sauce. Then half of it is blended to make more of a sauce consistency. It was easy prep and came together quickly. I seriously love this cookbook for no-fail, healthy Italian cuisine!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtnv7SiBoXOYxn2xO2nCrLe8pwyGrQBAB7HLAew9e007B-MKD0c13QPHZ2XWHVY6eVXNtmsvF8ufGMH1cC41GEOeLKkl9yoVG-ufMTPH5uFUb1M5eP7kxWVgkpZWaAWcoRtUYl/s1600/015.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtnv7SiBoXOYxn2xO2nCrLe8pwyGrQBAB7HLAew9e007B-MKD0c13QPHZ2XWHVY6eVXNtmsvF8ufGMH1cC41GEOeLKkl9yoVG-ufMTPH5uFUb1M5eP7kxWVgkpZWaAWcoRtUYl/s320/015.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695372349499438210" border="0" /></a><br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Baked Risotto with Veggies- Vegan Italiano<br /><br /></span>So good! The rice was cooked in the oven, and the steamed veggies were added in afterwards. It sure beats stirring for forty minutes! It has asparagus, peas and carrots, but the veggies could change based on what you have. I plan on making the risotto again, without all the veggies, as a side dish that Billy will eat :P<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-hkrKMsEN4yz4Ie13dXkinYSD98cG7S4FfidQVSahORuRwlblj-wLJHqzE1mjFQfDk_dXqSOcXhfcBuIqtT_AtJLS5X0BVm82sOMA-3-6EtFLpLmDoguFLZqR5zz0VyhIjmKT/s1600/007.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-hkrKMsEN4yz4Ie13dXkinYSD98cG7S4FfidQVSahORuRwlblj-wLJHqzE1mjFQfDk_dXqSOcXhfcBuIqtT_AtJLS5X0BVm82sOMA-3-6EtFLpLmDoguFLZqR5zz0VyhIjmKT/s320/007.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695372015129740530" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Three Bean Soup- Vegan Italiano</span><br /><br />I seriously love soup...who doesn't? This soup has carrots, onions, celery, cabbage, pastina (mini baby pasta), and a mixture of beans. It hit the spot and was very comforting as a winter lunch. Beans are so delicious...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf_lpbCEn_-rcd7Zg06AuKQxVSW_vuSJw9PDkS8OB9sA7U2_c21G59xHM_GBaF0Uc_OUd7UyeLfheWZoctBerE3lAQDSJx9ktO3AhjP7Vtcdr18Oh0Pt7ZSIA58h2pRPtzXJLb/s1600/005.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf_lpbCEn_-rcd7Zg06AuKQxVSW_vuSJw9PDkS8OB9sA7U2_c21G59xHM_GBaF0Uc_OUd7UyeLfheWZoctBerE3lAQDSJx9ktO3AhjP7Vtcdr18Oh0Pt7ZSIA58h2pRPtzXJLb/s320/005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695372012235805666" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Breakfast Quesadilla- Garden of Vegan</span><br />I took advantage of my time off to make yummy breakfasts in the mornings. This is one of my go-to favourites. Sabroso scrambled tofu, with refried beans, and Daiya cheese baked in a tortilla. I topped it with mashed avocado too.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizWXC6hVSallzGb2V0NOqcUVtKlgYCBq8hkcxgLW1fhnLHmA0yQBRPJ_WCja260EWb06QHoBa-kAEEy2rcVzfl0YpKljiGc8WYAP74xr-Y9rDQohmDRdSZqIXuFtj0d0oWPcOw/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizWXC6hVSallzGb2V0NOqcUVtKlgYCBq8hkcxgLW1fhnLHmA0yQBRPJ_WCja260EWb06QHoBa-kAEEy2rcVzfl0YpKljiGc8WYAP74xr-Y9rDQohmDRdSZqIXuFtj0d0oWPcOw/s320/004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695371998895689666" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I thawed puff pastry before New Year's, thinking that I'd make a yummy savory appetizer for the party I went to...but I ended up nixing that thought due to lack of ingredients. However, once puff pastry is thawed, it should be used....so I followed the recipe on the box to make seriously unhealthy Cheese Twists. I was a good girl and only had one at a time with my soup for lunch, but it was hard! I rolled out the puff pastry, brushed it with roasted garlic olive oil, then sprinkled on Daiya cheese, vegan parmesan, salt, pepper and basil and squished it into the dough. Then I cut strips and twisted them before placing them on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Then you bake and devour!! Billy loved these too. I think I'll try it with Pillsbury pizza dough or crescent rolls next time, as they are marginally better than puff pastry.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY4ccLCOjyIycb7lioheyM4IfKOj5yb9pr34walzmYMWRTpncsTUiRbjqbbCUJhaDRv18UlXs4reLZ0wz2k4SKyrUZCsqeTbZM5MUiKJ1rmWv0XtFm7W73hANnZY2RASPrEk3b/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY4ccLCOjyIycb7lioheyM4IfKOj5yb9pr34walzmYMWRTpncsTUiRbjqbbCUJhaDRv18UlXs4reLZ0wz2k4SKyrUZCsqeTbZM5MUiKJ1rmWv0XtFm7W73hANnZY2RASPrEk3b/s320/003.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695371994334436818" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chocolate Ice Cream- The Vegan Scoop</span><br /><br />My second batch of homemade ice cream. I like this more than the vanilla I made. I reduced the sugar to 1/2 cup from 3/4 cup and it was much better...not so cloyingly sweet. This has cocoa and melted chocolate chips, it's very rich. I made it with soymilk this time, just to see how it would taste, and so I'll have something to compare my oatmilk/almond milk/coconut ice creams to in the future.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX_FlYp4XhxGP6X_icC8VvtqSPR2kVNV2Vqe5OKRg4ktgPZ2n0X6imA_Bz7iZMHan1rSSDxvM6pcRsohwog3xPyBTfOZCsF3pvdqxSc3eU9KR8Stp1N6cGC6FRe9greWIkDM6W/s1600/012.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX_FlYp4XhxGP6X_icC8VvtqSPR2kVNV2Vqe5OKRg4ktgPZ2n0X6imA_Bz7iZMHan1rSSDxvM6pcRsohwog3xPyBTfOZCsF3pvdqxSc3eU9KR8Stp1N6cGC6FRe9greWIkDM6W/s320/012.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695372025006799778" border="0" /></a>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402185814559337775noreply@blogger.com0