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#NationalOatmealDay With @Quaker Off You Go Campaign/Giveaway

29 Oct

I begin each morning at 4 a.m. so I can prepare a delicious healthy meal for my family. Part of that healthy meal includes Quaker Oats Old-Fashioned Oatmeal which I’ve been eating since I was a toddler. It was only right to introduce Oatmeal to my kids. With so many to choose from it keeps breakfast exciting and we like to create different recipes. From high fiber instant oatmeal cinnamon swirl, maple and brown to instant quaker oatmeal cups apples & cinnamon which is great on the go, and the real medleys oatmeal blueberry hazelnut, summer berry, and peach almond. These all are amazing. Also who doesn’t love oatmeal raisin cookies? We also like to add fresh fruit to our oatmeal. When I say Off You Go to my kids I know they’re bellies are full in a good way. 

Quaker® believes that everyone should begin each morning prepared for everything that lies ahead. That’s why as part of the company’s new “Off You Go” campaign, the Quaker Oats Company is giving away up to one million bowls of oatmeal starting on National Oatmeal Day to help provide people across the country with the best starts to their days.
As part of its new “Off You Go”campaign, Quaker is surprising people around the country with a free bowl of oatmeal – online, on their way to work, or even at their doorstep. On National Oatmeal Day, October 29, follow @Quaker on Twitter or find Quaker on Facebook to give someone – whether it’s a family member, friend or co-worker – a little good to get them going with Quaker oatmeal. Thursday, October 29 only. While Supplies Last. Terms Apply.
· Quaker kicked off the one million bowl giveaway by thanking those who help families get off to a good start.

o Appreciation breakfasts were served to select teachers and day care providers across Chicago and New York to give them a little good for all they do.

o Check out video footage captured at these events on Quaker’s Facebook, YouTube Twitter pages.

· To learn more about Quaker’s “Off You Go” campaign visit http://www.QuakerOffYouGo.com. To give someone you love a bowl of oatmeal on National Oatmeal Day, follow @Quaker on Twitter or find Quaker on Facebook.

· Don’t forget to share your Off You Go moments and love of oatmeal by using #NationalOatmealDay throughout the day!

GIVEAWAY: Quaker was so very kind to offer 10 of my readers a Off You Go Moments Kit. 

Each Quaker® Off You Go Moments Kit will include:

· A heart-shaped Off You Go Oatmeal Bowl to enjoy your favorite whole grain breakfast

· An Instant Photo Camera to capture Off You Go moments and enjoy them in real-time

· A Magnetic Cable Photo Holder to preserve and display your favorite Off You Go moments

· A Reusable Jute Tote as a stylish way to pack all your on-the-go items for the day ahead

· A set of four Quaker recipe cards for morning meal inspiration

· A variety of Quaker products to help get you and your family off to a great start with a bowl of oatmeal

 Each kit is valued at approx. $110!

To enter answer this question in the comments below: 

How does your familiy prepare each morning to take on the day ahead?

Make sure you are following @Quaker on Twitter and Facebook. 

Must be subscribed to my blog fivelittlewords.net and following me on Instagram: @nilimo and Twitter @nilimonicky and like my Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/fivelittlewords

Giveaway ends November 12, 2015 at 11:59 pm and winners will be announced November 13, 2015 on my blog and social media. Quaker will mail out the winners prize within 2-3 weeks after I submit winners info. 

Check out http://www.quakeroats.com for product info. 

Disclosure: I am a proud Quaker Q Crew amabassador and was given product for my review. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 

  
   
    
   
  
 

Ninja Coffee Bar Review 

23 Oct

My name is Nichol Perez and I am addicted to coffee. I love coffee (all types). I’ve been drinking since I was a teen and I’ve tried so many. Some of my favorites are iced coffees, lattes, flavored hot coffees and just a good light and sweet cup of coffee. 

I was excited to find out actress Sofia Vergara partnered with Ninja to launch the Ninja Coffee Bar. This coffee machine was meant for me. I get to brew delicious coffee at home like specialty coffees, classic or rich brew and over ice brew. I can make a carafe, half carafe, travel mug or cup size of coffee in the comfort of my home. 

I was invited to hear Sofia Vergara speak on how she partnered with Ninja and why she had to have that fresh brew of Colombian coffee in her house. Sofia showed attendees how easy it is to use the Ninja Coffee Bar and why she loves it, she told us her favorite brew, and also let us know she can’t cook but can make good coffee. She was so sweet and funny. I enjoyed meeting her and so glad she partnered with Ninja. 

I was sent the Ninja Coffee Bar to review and at first I didn’t know what I was doing when I put coffee beans in the machine because it’s been that long since I brewed coffee so once I found out the beans needed to be put through a grinder I quickly handled that and had a great rich brew half carafe pot of coffee. I also made myself a coffee on the go in my travel mug which is sold separately. I enjoyed every sip of the piping hot coffee which has a intelligent warning plate on the machine and kept my coffee hot and also I was impressed my coffee stayed hot in my travel mug for about three hours. Love that mug. 

The Ninja Coffee Bar comes with a milk frother and amazing easy recipes which I can’t wait to try and it’s available now at major retailers nationwide starting at $149 MSRP. 

My favorite features are the Auto-IQ one touch intelligence, drip stop and the multi serve cup platform. All the features are great and I’m definitely hooked and now my wallet will be happy because I will save so much money with my Ninja Coffee Bar. Also great for hosting a coffee party with your family and friends. You bring the coffee I’ll make it and serve. 

Here are some facts about the Ninja Coffee Bar:

Ninja® is transforming the way Americans brew coffee with the Ninja Coffee Bar™. Ninja® has completely reinvented traditional drip coffee makers by designing a machine to unlock coffee’s full flavor potential and provide smooth, rich and well-balanced coffee in the size and style that you want. Perfect for daily coffee drinkers and coffee lovers, with the Ninja Coffee Bar™ you can choose a cup, a travel mug or a carafe, and you can choose from a variety of brew styles. From classic rich hot coffee, to refreshing Over Ice Brew or even delicious hot milk-based and frozen blended specialty drinks, you can do it all with one machine.

 Only the Ninja Coffee Bar™ has Thermal Flavor Extraction™ technology, which is designed to unlock the full flavor potential of your coffee, using automated controls for Temperature Calibration, Pre-Infusion, and Even Coffee Saturation.

 With Auto-iQ™ One Touch Intelligence, just set the dial to your desired size, select your brew type, and the Ninja Coffee Bar™ will automatically use the correct amount of water. Whether you like it hot or over ice, smooth or extra rich, this unique brewing technology knows just the right amount of flavor to extract to achieve just the right strength. Choose from four different brew types:

 1. Classic Brew: Smooth, rich, balanced flavor from your favorite ground coffee. 

2. Rich Brew: Richer than Classic with more intense flavor that really stands up to milk, cream, or flavoring.

3. Over Ice Brew: Richer than Rich Brew, designed to brew fresh and hot over ice leaving you with the perfect ratio of ice to rich, refreshingly cold coffee that’s never watered down.

4. Specialty Brew: Super-rich concentrate allows you to create your favorite hot milk-based and frozen blended coffee-house style drinks.

 “We are bringing Ninja®’s innovative technology to create a coffee maker that will transform the industry,” says Mark Rosenzweig, CEO of SharkNinja, the company that develops Ninja® housewares products. “Designed for coffee lovers, the Ninja Coffee Bar™ enables consumers to have the best coffeehouse in town on their countertop and make flavorful — never sour, never bitter — coffee with delicious, customizable coffee drink options.”

Adding an extra layer of convenience, the Ninja® Removable Water Reservoir enables users to brew multiple cups of coffee without refilling or measuring. The Precise Temp Warming Plate, available on select models, is designed to keep your coffee at the ideal temperature without burning it, even the last cup. With a two hour Auto Shutoff, the Precise Temp Warming plate will automatically turn off two hours after brewing and has an independent “Stay Warm” button that allows you to turn off the Precise Temp Warming plate prior to the two hour Auto Shutoff. 

Additional features of the Ninja Coffee Bar™ include:

· Easy-Fill Brew Basket – Slide out to quickly and easily fill with your favorite coffee grounds or fully remove for effortless cleaning.

· Removable Water Reservoir with Auto-Metering – No need to measure or constantly refill.

· Drip Stop – Stops the flow of coffee from the brew basket, allowing you to pour a cup mid-brew.

· Multi-Serve Cup Platform – Easily pulls down so you can brew directly into your favorite mug or cup.

· Programmable Delay Brew – Pre-set to brew automatically up to 24 hours in advance in any size.

· Intelligent Clean Cycle Indicator – Alerts you when your brewer senses that it needs to be cleaned.

· Ninja Easy Frother™ – Transform milk into rich creamy foam for your favorite indulgent specialty beverage.

· Available on select models:

o 43 oz. glass carafe with no drip ergonomics; included with Precise Temp Warming Plate.

o Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Carafe keeps your coffee hot for hours, ideal for entertaining; not including Intelligent Warming Plate.

· Ninja Cup Options:

o 12 oz. insulated mug with handle

o 14 oz. insulated cup

o Stainless Steel 16 oz. Travel Mug

o Hot and Cold 18 oz. Insulated Tumbler™

I have attached a video I took of Sofia at the event. https://instagram.com/p/7_VrcNGsAE/

I also periscoped my attempt at making coffee. Hopefully it’s still available. My periscope name is @nilimonicky. If it’s not available here is my you tube link to watch the 2nd correct video on: https://youtu.be/LxeUif9QQvc

For more info about the Ninja Coffee Bar and additional Shark Ninja Products: http://www.ninjacoffeebar.com, Facebook.com/NinjaCoffeeBar and @NinjaCoffeeBar on Twitter. 

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was invited to event and given a Ninja Coffee Bar for review. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 

  

   
 

Join Me In Taking The 7-Day Switch Up With Viva® Vantage®

6 Oct

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This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Viva® Vantage®.Opinions are mine 100% as always. 
Viva® Vantage® understands that people fall into all kinds of routines in life, including the household products they buy, and sometimes miss out on other great options in the process. Therefore, Viva® Brand is asking consumers to switch up their normal routine by trying Viva® Vantage® for seven days to see what they have been missing with their regular paper towel. Experience the stretchy-strength and great scrubbing power of Viva® Vantage®, recently named a 2015 Product of the Year.

I was invited to a Viva® Vantage® Live Party to the house of Amy Oztan from selfish mom.com in Brookyln, NY to learn more about the product. I learned some great tips that I will incorporate in my home. 

One of my favorite tips and newest kitchen switch up is to use a damp Viva® towel in the bottom of a container and put your washed strawberries on top and close with lid. They will last longer. 

Another tip is to use a damp Viva® towel under your cutting board to prevent it from shifting while slicing and dicing. I learned this from culinary classes years ago and still use this tip till this day. 

Ditch the bulky colander in favor of a paper towel. Place veggies and fruit on a sheet of Viva® Vantage® paper towels under a running faucet to function as a strainer; the stretchy-strength will keep the towel intact when wet. 

Need to chill white wine quickly? Don’t dilute it with ice; wrap a damp paper towel around the bottle and put in the freezer to chill rapidly.

I also enjoyed decorating wine glasses after I hand washed and dried the glass using the cloth-like texture of Viva® Vantage®. There was also a sparkling finish. 

I’d like to thank Amy for being a great host and making amazing food and sangria for her guests and also showing us her tips using Viva® Towels.  

Check out the website and kick off your own “7-Day Switch Up” by visiting http://bit.ly/1T3mdFX for a Viva® Vantage® coupon to purchase and try the product. After experiencing the stretchy-strength and great scrubbing power of Viva® Vantage®, return to the website to dish on your switch and enter for a chance to instantly win a $100 gift card.

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Viva® Vantage®.Opinions are mine 100% as always. 

   
    
 

  
   
 

Giveaway: Quaker Wants To Fuel You Up For Back To School #QuakerBTS

16 Aug

 “Quaker is teaming up with Fuel Up to Play 60, the nation’s largest in-school wellness program, and Emmitt Smith to encourage and inspire families to balance eating sensibly and getting active as they fuel up for back-to-school.”

 1. Quaker is partnering with Emmitt Smith to help families understand the importance of eating sensibly and getting active to maintain a healthy lifestyle. From his days gearing up for football season, to getting his own kids prepped for the school year, Emmitt Smith knows firsthand that a healthy lifestyle helps families fuel greatness for the season ahead.

2. Quaker has been committed to fueling families for the past 138 years by offering nourishing products made with whole grain oats, educating families on the importance of leading an active lifestyle and seeking partners that offer physical activity solutions. Partners like Fuel Up to Play 60 and Emmitt Smith help continue that mission.

3. To learn more about Quaker products or news, visit http://www.quakeroats.com. To learn more about the nation’s largest in-school wellness program, visit FuelUpToPlay60.com. Follow @Quaker on Twitter.

 

Giveaway Details:

Quaker Fuel Up to Play 60 Family Fun Kit is helping you and your family fuel up for the new school year. We hope you’ll be inspired to share your own tips for including active play/sensible eating into their family’s back-to-school routines.

 Each Quaker® Fuel Up to Play 60 Family Fun Kit will include:

· Personally autographed headshot of NFL Legend, Emmitt Smith

· Custom storage water bottle for convenient, on-the-go use

· Dry erase, magnetic weekly planner to stay on top of your family’s activities

· On-the-go oatmeal mug for busy weekday mornings

· Jump rope for the whole family to combine fun and physical activity

· A foam Fuel Up to Play 60 football for active play

· A cute, durable storage bin to put it all in!

· A variety of Quaker products to fuel your morning, including Quaker Chewy Granola Bars and Instant Oatmeal Protein Cups

To enter this giveaway:

Must be subscribed to my blog Fivelittlewords.net

Follow me on Instagram @nilimo

Follow me on Twitter @nilimonicky 

Follow @Quaker on Twitter

Leave a comment telling me how you are including active play and sensible eating in your family’s back to school routine. Also comment with your social media handles and tell me you’ve completed everything mentioned. Giveaway starts today August 16, 2015 and ends August 30th. Winner announced August 31st on Twitter. 

Disclosure: Five little Words is an Ambassador for Quaker. I was not compensated for for this post. Quaker is responsible for shipment of prize. 

  
 

 

Reader Giveaway of the Limited-Edition Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce

24 Jul

I am sharing a giveaway with my fantastic readers. For those who love to cook whether you’re marinating, barbecuing or you are in need of a sauce to dip your veggies in I’ve got something for you. Warning: I’ve been addicted to this sauce since the first time I tasted it at the BBQ launch party and it blew me away. You will be blown away so make sure people are around to catch you. 

 About the Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce:

The perfect accompaniment to backyard BBQ’s and gatherings of family and friends, the Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce translates the dark fruit and caramelized flavors of the Woodbridge Cabernet Sauvignon into a sweet and tangy molasses-based sauce. The limited-edition recipe is ideal as a marinade, dipping sauce or topping for everyone’s favorite summer meats and vegetables, including ribs, grilled chicken, pulled pork, hamburgers, bratwurst and grilled vegetables. Its flavors are amplified further when paired with a glass of Woodbridge Cabernet Sauvignon ($6.99 per 750mL bottle / $10.99 per 1.5L bottle). The sauce is available through September 30, 2015 on Amazon.com.

Check out my post I wrote about the launch of this amazing sauce here: https://fivelittlewords.net/?s=Woodbridge&submit=Search

Who’s ready to win? I’ve got 4 bottles of Woodbridge Wine Cue Sauce up for grabs. All you have to do is leave a comment telling me how you are going to use your sauce. Also, make sure you are following me on Twitter @nilimonicky and Instagram @nilimo and leave a comment that you did with both your handles for Twitter and Instgram. Contest ends August 6, 2015. Winner announced August 7, 2015. You have 24 hours to claim prize or new winner will be picked. Good luck!!  I extended this giveaway. It will end August 27, 2015 and winners will be picked August 28, 2015. One winner already won so there are 3 bottles left. 

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was given jars of sauce to review and a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon. Opinions are mine as always 100%. 

   
    
 

Johnsonville Bratfast in Bed Father’s Day!! 

20 Jun

Johnsonville is celebrating Father’s Day with a Bratfast in Bed tray! Complete with a Brat-y Mary (Bloody Mary, sausage style of course), two juicy Johnsonville brats drenched in sauerkraut served right off the grill, and the remote control to the television; this just became your answer to the ultimate Father’s Day gift. 

  
Johnsonville reached out to see how I could make a Bratfast in Bed video for Father’s Day using their Brats and a cool tray they sent me. I love surprising people especially with food. I get to see their reaction when they taste my home cooking. My partner in crime loves cheese omelets so I cracked some eggs, and grilled a few Johnsonville beef brats. I kept it simple and sweet with his favorite breakfast on his day. The video shows how much he liked and appreciated his food. 

Johnsonville’s new app – The Brat Signal – makes it’s easier than ever to let your friends and family know that a grilling gathering is about to start. The simple web-based app allows users to send out a virtual “smoke signal” with the grilling location and menu to Twitter followers and Facebook friends. Download the app at BratSignal.com and discover how it can help you make memories this summer as you gather ‘round the grill.

  

Click on the links below to see the video. 

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=T12wZVj6Sr8 

http://magis.to/ICY7UlxAFVF_LCUGDmEwCX15?l=vsm&o=i&c=e?utm_source=magisto&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=producer_shared_movie

Hope you enjoy the video. What will you surprise your loved one with on Father’s Day? Check out @Johnsonville on Twitter. 

  
  
Disclosure: I was compensated for this post. Opinions are mine as always 100%. 

 

General Mills Cereal & Star Wars Recipe & Giveaway

18 Jun

General Mills and Star Wars are teaming up to offer exclusive vintage movie posters in every specially marked box of General Mills cereals! General Mills is once again connecting fans with what they love. Hidden inside each box, you will find one of six timeless movie posters featuring your favorite Star Wars films. Star Wars and cereal fans alike can collect all six classic posters in each participating brand of General Mills cereals, including Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Honey Nut Cheerios, Trix, Cookie Crisp and Reese’s Puffs. The specially marked boxes of Big G cereals hit store shelves this month, for a limited time only. Check out the #CerealWars Tumblr page that already launched for more fan fun surrounding the General Mills and Star Wars partnership.

I was asked to come up with a Star Wars themed recipe using General Mills cereal. We chose the Trix cereal and got creative in the kitchen. We wanted something that took little time to make. What could we turn cereal into? We chose Popsicles. It’s cool and on hot days and it only took seven-minutes to freeze.  

Ingredients: 

Trix cereal

Greek yogurt

Milk

That’s it. Depending on your Popsicle maker you will have to see how much of each ingredient you use. I put some cereal in a measuring cup with a few teaspoons of Greek yogurt and a splash of milk. Mix together and pour in your Popsicle maker. The mix shouldn’t be took thick, so not too much yogurt. It took me a few times till I got it right. I will add more cereal next time. You can try any cereal that you like. We liked the way the colors looked with the Trix cereal in the Popsicles. The kids acted like the Popsicles were lightsabers. We had fun creating this and eating the Popsicles of course. We’ve already collected posters and won’t stop till we find all of them. We have three more to go. May the force be with you!! 

Enjoy the recipe and comment if you try it out. 

**Giveaway: 

One lucky winner will receive 2 boxes of participating General Mills cereals and an exclusive Star Wars vintage movie poster. Comment below and tell me which General Mills cereal is your favorite and a winner will be picked. Giveaway ends July 2, 2015. Five little Words is not responsible for shipping prize. 

Disclosure: I was compensated for this post. Opinions are mine as always 100%. 

   
 

Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce Launch BBQ Party w/ Alex Guarnaschelli at Butter

17 May

I recently attended the Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce launch party. Chef, cookbook author and Food Network personality Alex Guarnaschelli hosted a backyard BBQ party on the patio at her restaurant Butter, where she served her original BBQ recipes and Woodbridge Wine cocktails. There were also summer games including corn hole and jumbo-jenga and a live bluegrass band.


I am addicted to Food Network and have been a fan for years as well as a fan of Alex Guarnaschelli. I consider myself a foodie and chef and love trying new foods and recipes. I also love creating my own. I think I have more than 20 cookbooks. Love collecting them. Hopefully one day I’ll be on tv or become a cookbook author. BBQ’s are my favorite kind of parties. The smell of the food cooking in the grill and the taste is what I crave. Everything from steaks, burgers, corn on the cob and shrimps are a few of my favorites. I just recently found out you can even make a cake on the grill. I know what I’m doing this summer. 


I just have to say the food on the menu was so good you had to be there to taste it. I couldn’t stop eating. They were all great. This is what guests had the pleasure of eating: Slow Cooked Woodbridge Wine Pork Shoulder ‘Que, Oven-Baked Woodbridge Wine Chicken Wings, Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce Portabello Sliders, The Ultimate Woodbridge BBQ Shrimp, Summer Roasted Potato Salad, French Fries, Mix Green Salad with Woodbridge Wine Vinaigrette, Caramelized Woodbridge Wine Onion Party Dip and Grilled Pineapple with ‘Cue Sauce Glaze and Woodbridge Wine Granita. Did I say this food was banging? Just in time for Memorial Day, I will be making all of these recipes this summer. 


The drinks were perfect for a beautiful Spring evening. Frozen Woodbridge Moscato Mint Julep, Woodbridge Pinot Grigio Sangria, Woodbridge Orange Fizz, Woodbridge Moscato-Watermelon Smash all by Robert Mondavi. My favorite drinks were the mint julep and the watermelon smash. 


Inspired by a shared commitment to create quality products for everyday enjoyment, Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi and Daddy Sam’s partnered to create a one-of-a-kind Texas style sauce, infusing the robust taste of the winery’s beloved Cabernet Sauvignon into a grilling sauce that’s ideal for summer entertaining. The perfect accompaniment to backyard BBQ’s and gatherings of family and friends, the Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce combines the dark fruit and caramelized flavors of the Woodbridge Cabernet Sauvignon with a sweet and tangy molasses-based sauce. The limited edition Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce is available for purchase for $6.99 on http://www.amazon.com from May 15-September 30. Here is the link: http://www.amazon.com/Woodbridge-by-Robert-Mondavi-Sauce/dp/B00VRYFVCK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1431711698&sr=8-1&keywords=Woodbridge+BBQ+sauce 

Alex Guarnaschelli recommends enjoying the sauce with a glass of Woodbridge Cabernet Sauvignon to truly amplify the flavors ($6.99 per 750mL bottle / $10.99 per 1.5L bottle) 

I couldn’t wait to try so I made baked chicken and shrimp and use the Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce and everyone loved it. I definitely have to stock up before it’s all gone. The best part is it contains no residual alcohol and is appropriate for all ages and contains no artificial ingredients, including high fructose corn syrup or MSG. A big plus in my book. I put a few of the recipes below. Let me know which one you try or if you try more than one and how you like the sauce after you purchase. I know you will love it. I love mine and can’t wait to get more. 


Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was given a bottle of sauce for review purposes. Opinions are mine as always 100%. The last 3 photos are credited to Brian Zach.

                        




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Mixed Green Salad with Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Wine Vinaigrette

Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon is used to create the foundation for a fresh salad dressing.

 

Sauce is not used, but does use Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon as an ingredient

 

Pairs with Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon

 

Makes about 2 cups of dressing

 

2 teaspoons sugar

2 cups Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon

2 tablespoons smooth Dijon mustard

1 medium clove garlic, minced

¼ cup Balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon clover honey

½ cup Canola oil

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

½ pound arugula leaves

½ pound escarole

1 sprig fresh dill, stemmed

  

1.       Make the vinaigrette: In a small pot, reduce the Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon and sugar over medium heat until there is about 1/4 cup liquid. Slowly whisk together the mustard, garlic, Balsamic vinegar, honey, Canola oil and olive oil. Stir in the reduced red wine. Add a splash of water if needed. Taste for seasoning.

2.       Toss the salad: In a large bowl, toss the arugula, escarole and dill with the dressing, tossing a few spoonfuls at a time.

 

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Oven-Baked Woodbridge Wine Chicken Wings

The chicken is brushed with butter and paprika then baked. The Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce is boiled, reduced, tweaked and then used as a glaze over the chicken after it is finished baking.

 

Incorporates Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce and Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon as ingredients

 

Pairs with Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon

 

Serves 4-6

 

2 cups Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon

¼ cup clover honey

2 large cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons dark brown sugar

3 tablespoons Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce

½ cup sherry vinegar

1 tablespoon coarsely ground black pepper

2 scallions, white and green parts both, cut into thin rounds

1 pound (about 16 pieces) chicken wings

Kosher salt

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

2 teaspoons hot paprika

The juice from 1 large lemon

 

1.       Preheat the oven to 350F.

2.       Make the honey glaze: In a large skillet, reduce the Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon over medium heat until there is only about ¼ cup liquid. Pour the wine into a medium bowl to cool. In the same skillet, bring the honey, garlic, dark brown sugar and Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce to a simmer. When it starts to foam and turn light brown, remove the skillet from the heat and pour in the sherry vinegar. Return the skillet to the heat and allow it to simmer until it becomes like a light glaze, 12-15 minutes. Stir in the black pepper and scallions and pour it over the red wine in the bowl. Whisk to blend. Taste for seasoning.

3.       Prepare and cook the chicken wings: Cut each chicken wing at each joint so each wing is cut into 3 parts. You will have 36 pieces including the wing tips. Season them with salt. In a small saucepan, melt the butter and stir in the paprika. Put the wings on a sheet pan and brush them with the melted butter mixture. Bake them for 5-8 minutes. Turn them on their second side and brush with the remaining butter mixture. Then, put the tray under the broiler and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes or until fully cooked.

4.       Finish the dish: Toss the chicken wings in the honey red wine glaze and squeeze the lemon juice over them.

 

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Slow-Cooked Woodbridge Wine Pork Shoulder ‘Cue

Traditional pork BBQ adapted for a slow cooker with Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon and Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce, served “naked”. The pork shoulder is rubbed with some simple spices. The pork is cooked whole with the sauce, wine and herbs.

 

Pairs with Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon

 

1 bottle Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon

6 medium cloves garlic, grated

1 teaspoon Spanish paprika

2 tablespoons dark soy sauce

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 cup Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce

3 tablespoons Canola oil

3 pound piece pork picnic shoulder – If you can’t find a 3 lb. piece of pork shoulder, ask your local butcher to cut one for you

Kosher salt

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

 

1.       Marinate the pork: In a medium pot, reduce the Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon over medium heat until it reduces by half. In a large bowl, whisk together the garlic, paprika, soy sauce, red wine vinegar, Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce and oil. Stir in the reduced red wine. Drop the pork shoulder in the marinade and roll the meat around, coating all sides. Refrigerate the meat for (preferably overnight but for a minimum of) 6 hours. Take care that the meat is coated and turn the meat around in the marinade once or twice as it sits.

2.       Preheat the oven to 325F.

3.       Cook the pork: Place the pork on a tray with a fitted rack and low sides. Season the meat on all sides with salt. Place the pork in the center of the oven and roast until tender but still juicy, 2 ½ – 3 hours. Remove the pork from the oven and allow it to rest 15 minutes before slicing against “the grain” of the meat. In a small pot, bring the marinade to a full boil over medium heat. Simmer and reduce for a couple of minutes then whisk in the butter. Taste for seasoning. Pour the marinade over the pork slices.

 

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Summer Roasted Potato Salad

Red Bliss potatoes roasted and tossed with an emulsified dressing made with Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon, mustard, scallions.

 

Sauce is not used, but does use Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon as an ingredient

 

Pairs with Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon

 

Serves 4 to 6

 

2 pounds medium Red Bliss potatoes, halved or quartered depending on size

 

The dressing:

1 cup Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon

6 tablespoons red wine vinegar

2 medium shallots, thinly sliced

2 tablespoons smooth (Dijon) mustard

¼ cup mayonnaise

1 teaspoon chopped capers

6 gherkins, quartered lengthwise and sliced into ¼ inch pieces plus 1 tablespoon of gherkin liquid

1 small bunch chives, minced

 

1.       Preheat the oven to 400F.

2.       Arrange the potatoes on a single layer on a baking sheet and place it in the center of the oven.

3.       Make the vinaigrette: In a small pot, reduce the Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon over medium heat until there is only about 2 tablespoons of liquid. In a bowl large enough to hold the potatoes, whisk together the red wine vinegar, shallots, mustard, mayonnaise, capers and gherkins. Whisk in the reduced red wine. Taste for seasoning. When the potatoes are tender and yielding when pierced with the tip of a knife, 30-35 minutes, remove them from the oven. Allow them to cool for a few minutes. Peel half of them. Some potato skin is a nice flavor in the salad.

4.       Finish the salad: Place the potatoes (halved or quartered, pending size) in the bowl with the dressing and lightly crush them with the tines of a fork. Season lightly with salt and pepper and toss them in the dressing. Sprinkle with the chives.

 

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Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce Portobello Sliders

Grilled Portobello mushroom “burgers” made by sandwiching two portobellos together with the cheese and with Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce onions inside. They are pressed and cooked on the grill (or could be baked in the oven) until completely hot in the center.

 

Incorporates Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce 

 

Pairs with Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon

 

6 large garlic cloves

2 medium red onions, thinly sliced

4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus ½ cup olive oil for the dressing

Kosher salt

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce

1 tablespoons clover honey

8 medium Portobello mushrooms

10 ounces whole milk mozzarella cheese, cut into 12 slices

½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese

 

1.       Preheat the grill. Preheat the oven to 350F.

2.       Roast the garlic: In a small bowl, toss the garlic cloves and onions with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil and salt. Spread the onions on one end of a baking sheet and the garlic on the other. Place in the tray in the center of the oven. Cook until tender when pierced with the tip of a knife, 20-25 minutes.

3.       Make the dressing: “Mash” the garlic cloves and whisk them vigorously together with the balsamic vinegar, Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce, honey and ½ a cup of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.

4.       Grill the mushrooms: In a medium bowl, toss the mushrooms in the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season with salt. Place them, stem side up, on the hottest part of the grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes, you may see liquid starting to emerge from the stem area. Turn on their second side and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Transfer them to a tray and place in the center of the oven. Cook for an additional 12-15 minutes until they are tender when pierced with the tip of a knife.

5.       Make the sliders: Arrange four mushrooms, stem side up, on a baking sheet. Top each with 3 slices of the mozzarella cheese and some of the cooked onions. Season with salt. “Sandwich” the cheese by topping each with another mushroom. Sprinkle with the parmesan cheese. Place the tray in the center of the oven and bake until the cheese melts, 5-8 minutes. Remove from the oven, slice in half and drizzle with the dressing.

 

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Caramelized Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Wine Onion Party Dip

Caramelized onion dip with Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon and Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce cooked into the base of the dip and blended with cheese, fresh scallions, and served with pita chips.

 

Incorporates Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce and Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon as ingredients

 

Pairs with Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon

 

Makes about 2 cups dip; Serves 6-8

 

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 large yellow onions, halved and thinly sliced

3 medium cloves garlic, minced

½ teaspoon cayenne

Kosher salt

½ cup Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon

½ cup Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce 

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

3 ounces cream cheese

1 cup sour cream

2 scallions, thinly sliced, green parts only

12-16 baby carrots, peeled

Pita chips

 

1.       Cook the onions: In a medium sauté pan, melt the butter and add the onions, garlic and cayenne. Season with salt and cook over medium heat, stirring from time to time, until translucent, 8-10 minutes. Add the Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon and cook until almost all of the liquid evaporates, 8-10 minutes. Add the Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce and red wine vinegar and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes over medium to low heat until the onions are golden brown and tender. Set aside to cool.

2.       Make the dip: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Stir in the onion mixture and scallions. Taste for seasoning. Allow the dip about 15 minutes to “rest” before serving with carrots and pita chips on the side.

 

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The Ultimate Woodbridge BBQ Shrimp

Incorporates Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi wine and Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce in the recipe which is cooked, (grilled or) broiled and glazed.

 

Pairs with Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon

 

Serves 4-6

 

For the BBQ Sauce:

1 cup Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon

1 cup Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce

¼ cup cider vinegar

¼ cup Worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons light soy sauce

1 tablespoon dry mustard (preferably Coleman’s brand)

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

3 tablespoons chili powder

4 medium cloves garlic, minced

1 lemon, cut into ½ inch thick slices

 

For the Shrimp:

16 – 18 “U-10” Shrimp, peeled, deveined

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 lemon

1 tablespoon freshly ground ginger

 

1.       Preheat the grill.

2.       Make the BBQ sauce: In a large pot, simmer the Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon until it reduces by about half. Stir in the Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce, cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, dry mustard, Dijon mustard and chili powder. Whisk to blend. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Add the garlic and lemon slices. Simmer on the stove for 20-25 minutes until the aroma of the vinegar mellows slightly. Taste for seasoning.

3.       Cook the shrimp: Season the shrimp on both sides with salt. When the grill is hot, place a large sauté pan on the side of the grill to get it hot. Place the shrimp in a single layer on a “hot spot” of the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes. Use a pair of tongs to turn them on the other side and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Add the butter to the sauté pan. Allow the butter to melt and the toss the shrimp in the pan, basting them with the butter. Squeeze the juice from the lemon and stir in the ginger. Drizzle them generously with the BBQ sauce. Transfer to a platter and serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side, if desired.

 

 

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Grilled Pineapple with ‘Cue Sauce Glaze and Woodbridge Wine Granita

Grilled fruit that could be served as a dessert or as part of a party menu served with a red wine granita, made from freezing Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon with some spices and honey. There is a sweet and sour aspect; as well as a hot/cold temperature concept. This recipe could also be broken into two smaller dessert or “refresher” concept recipes. Makes about 2 ½ cups worth of granita.

 

Incorporates Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce and Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon as ingredients

 

The Granita:

1 cup water

1/3 cup sugar

1 bottle Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon

1 cinnamon stick

1 teaspoon dry ginger

1 tablespoon Balsamic vinegar

 

Pineapple:

1 large ripe golden pineapple, top removed, peeled and cut into 10-12 wedges

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

¼ cup clover honey

2 tablespoons Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce 

Juice from 1 medium lemon

  

1.       Make the syrup and cook the wine: In a medium saucepan, combine the water with the sugar. Stir to blend. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring from time to time, until the sugar dissolves. Transfer to a bowl to cool. Refrigerate. Pour the Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon into the same saucepan, add the cinnamon stick and ginger and cook over medium heat until it reduces by half. Refrigerate.

2.       Freeze and make the granita: When the wine and syrup are cooled, stir them together. Discard the cinnamon stick. Stir in the Balsamic vinegar. Pour out onto a baking sheet and put in the freezer until it hardens, 3-4 hours. When ready to serve, scrape the surface with the tines of a fork to remove the granita in large flakes.

3.       Preheat the grill.

4.       Grill the pineapple: When the grill is hot, arrange the wedges of pineapple in a single layer on a baking sheet and brush them with the olive oil. Place them on the grill in a single layer, cooking 3-5 minutes on one side before turning on the other. Meanwhile, put a medium pot on the grill and add the honey. Bring it to a simmer and let it froth and bubble 2-3 minutes until it turns a darker shade of brown. Add the Woodbridge Wine ‘Cue Sauce and lemon and simmer 3-5 minutes. When the pineapple is charred on both sides, arrange on a serving platter and spoon the honey wine reduction over them.

 

REVIEW OF  VILLAGE VOICE CHOICE EATS 8TH ANNUAL TASTING EVENT #choiceeats #food

30 Mar

If you weren’t at Village Voice Choice Eats 8th Annual Tasting Event then you missed out on some great food. 68 restaurants from all the five boroughs participated at the Metropolitan Pavillion. It was a night  for this foodie to remember and something my taste buds and full belly will never forget. 

The Blue Stove, Brucie, Bustan, Butter Lane, Carlo’s Bakery, Coppelia, Delaware and Hudson, Doughnut Plant, Edi & The Wolf, Egg, El Atoradero, Fay Da Bakery, Fort Defiance, Genuine, Grandaisy Bakery, Juliette, Los Tacos No 1, Luca & Bosco Ice Cream, Papa’s Kitchen, Pickle Shack, Recette, Rubirosa, Sigmund’s Pretzels, Sugar Couture, Venturo Osteria, Veselka Restaurant, Wilma Jean, and Xe May Sandwich Shop.
2 Duck Goose, 606 R&D, Ample Hills Creamery, Applewood, Awadh, Baz Bagel & Restaurant, Bobwhite Lunch & Supper Counter, BOOMwich, Box Kite NYC, Brooklyn Kolache Co., Butter & Scotch, Calle Dao, Casa del Chef, Casa Mono and Bar Jamon, Commerce Restaurant, The East Pole, Fletcher’s Brooklyn Barbecue, Gloria’s Carribean Cuisine, The Gorbals, Huertas, John Brown Smokehouse, King Bee, Kuma Inn, Littleneck, Luke’s Lobster, Mable’s Smokehouse, MAX, The Meatball Shop, Mexico Lindo, No. 7, The NoMad, Queens Comfort, The Queens Kickshaw, Red Hook Lobster Pound, Robicelli’s, SCRATCHbread, Spicy Pot,Tabata Noodle Restaurant, Thai Rock, and Tuome.

As we walked in we were given a shot glass for drinks and a tray to carry samples of food on. I didn’t know where to begin. I know I had my hear set on a few that I was dying to try.  My tray eventually was overstuffed that I had to contain myself and breathe. I didn’t want to get too full too fast. It smelled amazing like when you’re sitting at home watching the Food Network and wish you had smell-o vision.  Well I was live!! It eventually got packed but I memorized my favorites and maneuvered my way through the crowd and got my seconds, thirds and fourths. 
Here were a few of my favorites: 
Fletcher’s Brooklyn Barbecue made a killer Tri-Tip Pastrami
The Meatball Shop had their awesome Pizza Balls
Luke’s Lobster served wonderful Chowder and Maine Shrimp Rolls on buttery buns 
Juliette Spicy Florida Rock Shrimp Slider OMG
Los Tacos No. 7 Double Decker Brocolli Tacos very good
John Brown Smokehouse excellent Pecan Smoked Pastrami Reuben Sliders
Mable’s Smokehouse BBQ Smoked Pulled Pork with Jalepeno Corn Cake & Collard Greens yum kept going back
Queens Comfort Steak au Poivre Mac & Cheese mouth watering 

Desserts were also part of the event but by the time I found them upstairs I was so stuffed. I forced myself to try some and take the rest home. My kids were very happy. 
Here are a few of my favorites: 
Carlo’s Bakery Cake Bites moist and fluffy
Ample Hills Creamery Chocolate Milk & Cookies Ice Cream heaven
Sugar Couture Banana Pudding Pie delightful
Butter & Scotch Mini S’mores Bars the liquor infused bars hit me
Butter Lane Vanilla Mini Cupcakes with Sea Salt tasty
Robicelli’s Nutelasagna amazing 
Doughnut Plant Chocolate Hazlenut Doughseed love them
Fay Da Bakery Japanese Cheesecake very good
Coppelia Bread Pudding beyond delicious


To avoid running back and forth to the restroom I saved the beer for last. I grew up on ginger beer and when I saw they had alcoholic ginger beer I knew I had to try. Crabbie’s Original Alcoholic Ginger Beer was in the house with their original and spiced orange flavors. Both were amazing. I’m hooked. Rums of Puerto Rico drinks were on point too. 
We also were able to keep Stella Artois wine glasses, whole foods shot glass and other beer mugs.

I had a wonderful time and glad I got to cover this event and stuff my face. I have new favorite dishes and restaurants to check out. Can’t wait to do this again. 
   

                           



THE PERFECTLY POWERFUL PEANUT POP-UP #peanutpower

29 Mar

The National Peanut Board, which represents America’s more than 7,000 peanut farming families, is in New York City for a week of consumer and influencer events.  At the heart of the experience is two days of consumer sampling and engagement. Inside the Pop-Up space, visitors can meet and have their picture taken with peanut farmers, learn about peanut farming and sustainability and find out more about how peanut products are helping to feed people in need here and around the world.  And of course, you’ll be able to sample peanuts and peanut butter – as well as innovative creations from dietitians, chefs and other culinary professionals.

On Thursday, peanut farmers and other volunteers are making sandwiches with a local nonprofit organization that feeds hungry people in New York City.

 

The Perfectly Powerful Peanut Pop-Up space will be open to the public as follows: Tuesday, March 31 & Wednesday, April 1, 2015 from 7 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. 


 Guests will have the opportunity to sample free, peanut powered breakfast and snacks, take their picture with a peanut farmer and learn how America’s peanuts are grown and feeding the world. The event will be held at The Corner at the Roger Smith Hotel(47th St. and Lexington) from 7 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. both days. For more information, visit perfectlypowerfulpeanut.com and follow #peanutpower on Twitter.