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Restaurant.com Best Deal Every Meal Specials #spon 

30 Mar

Disclosure: I received a Restaurant.com gift card for the purpose of this review. This post was made possible by Mom Spark Media. Thoughts are my own. 
Three words I like, Food, Sale and Deals. You can find these three words below because Restaurant.com has a big Sale going on right now for dining out.

Spring has sprung! There’s no better way to celebrate than taking the family to enjoy alfresco dining and fruity drinks. To bring in the new season, http://restaurant.com is serving up $25 Certificates for only $3 with Promo Code: SALE. All their other deals are on sale too! For example, grab a $10 Certificate for just $1.20.
I know a deal when I see one and this is one that everyone should jump on. Think of the holidays coming up or just wanting to eat out and how these certificates will come in handy. They even make great gifts. 

  

Finding a deal has never been easier! Search http://www.restaurant.com by location, cuisine, price range and more, to find exactly what you want, where you want it! 

Hurry! This $3 sale won’t last. Visit http://www.restaurant.com today for amazing deals on delicious meals. This offer ends Thursday, March 31 at 11:59 pm CT. 

  
Disclosure: I received a Restaurant.com gift card for the purpose of this review. This post was made possible by Mom Spark Media. Thoughts are my own. 

Bloggers Breakfast at IHOP

25 Mar

I had the pleasure of attending the  Bloggers Breakfast at IHOP. As a fan I was not passing this up. I love the fact that we can have breakfast anytime of day when I walk into IHOP. I also make breakfast for dinner at home but like to treat my family to IHOP. Have IHOP any day. Easter is also a great day to head to IHOP for brunch. Try out their amazing selection of food like pancakes, waffles, and their french toast. 

  
IHOP announced the return of their delicious Double-Dipped French Toast! This year IHOP is rolling out two new flavors, Blackberry & Vanilla, and Banana, Peanut Butter, & Chocolate. Craig Hoffman, IHOP’s International Director of Communications  and President Darren Rebelez were in attendance and spoke about IHOP’s culinary edge, the family-friendly environment that makes the restaurant a local favorite, and their commitment to serving the communities in which they operate.

   
   
IHOP restaurants are bringing back their newest innovation, Double-Dipped French Toast– soft brioche bread first dipped in vanilla batter, then dipped a second time in a coating of corn flakes and oatmeal and griddled perfectly to a crispy golden-brown, raising the bar for French toast at an affordable price. See this delicious treat by visiting: http://www.ihop.com/about-ihop/tv-commercials

Double-Dipped French Toast is yet another example of why America turns to IHOP for breakfast any time of day—and has for over 57 years. When it was introduced last summer, it became one of our most popular dishes, and guests have been eagerly awaiting its return. And it’s back in two new sweetly indulgent varieties:

• Blackberry & Vanilla – Thick slices of Brioche bread dipped in our vanilla batter, then in cornflakes and oatmeal, griddled, and topped with plump blackberries and drizzled with vanilla sauce.

• Banana, Peanut Butter & Chocolate – Thick slices of Brioche bread dipped in vanilla batter, then in cornflakes and oatmeal, griddled, and topped with sliced fresh bananas, chocolate chips and a drizzle of peanut butter sauce.

“Double-Dipped French Toast became an immediate fan favorite when we introduced it last summer, so it was a natural choice to come back to the menu in two fresh, new flavors, “ said Marie Grimm, Vice President, Menu Development and Innovation, International House of Pancakes, LLC. “The combination of the unique texture of our Double-Dipped French Toast with these exciting new ingredients will create even more fans of this terrific treat, perfect for breakfast all day or night!

Guests can enjoy two slices of hand-crafted Double-Dipped French Toast any time of day as part of a combo with eggs, done the way they like them, their choice of crispy bacon, pork sausage links or a slice of grilled ham, and IHOP restaurants’ signature golden hash browns; or as an entrée stacked three slices high.

Double-Dipped French toast will be available at participating IHOP restaurants between February 15 and April 10, 2016.

For over 57 years, International House of Pancakes, LLC has been a leader and expert in all things breakfast and a leader in family dining. The chain is highly competitive in its menu offering, serving 65 different signature, made-to-order breakfast options as well as meals under 600 calories. Beyond offering “everything you love about breakfast,” IHOP® restaurants have a wide selection of popular lunch and dinner items, as well. IHOP restaurants offer guests an affordable, everyday dining experience with warm and friendly service. As of September 30, 2015, there were 1,667 IHOP restaurants in 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as in Canada, Guatemala, Mexico, Puerto Rico, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, the Philippines, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands. IHOP restaurants are franchised and operated by Glendale, Calif.-based International House of Pancakes, LLC and its affiliates. 

I enjoyed stuffing my face and meeting with everyone and learning about why IHOP is successful and how menus and recipes are created. The food is always enjoyable. Staff was great as always since the 14th St location in NY is my regular spot anyway. Head to your local IHOP today. For more info visit: http://www.ihop.com and @ihop on Instagram and Twitter. 

  
Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was invited to attend the breakfast. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 

Easter Recipes with Jennie-O

24 Mar

With Easter a few days away Jennie-O is going the extra mile this spring to help home cooks plan a delicious, stress-free Easter with all new themed menus (that go beyond turkey to include creative side dishes and desserts), holiday hosting how-tos and much more! The updated JennieO.com “Holidays and Events” page is the new go-to guide to help celebrate a favorite springtime tradition. 

 

You know how much I enjoy finding and creating new recipes. There are two recipes that I am going to prepare found on the website. One is the Mexican Turkey Frittata. Here is the link:  http://www.jennieo.com/recipes/971-Mexican-Turkey-Frittata 

 

The other is Deviled Eggs with Bacon and BBQ. Click this link: http://www.jennieo.com/recipes/1062-Deviled-Eggs-with-Bacon-and-BBQ 

 There’s a recipe for everything Easter, Brunch, Modern Easter Dinner, Easy Easter Dinner and even Gluten-Free.  

    
 Which recipe will you try? Check out @JennieO on Instagram and @SwitchToTurkey on Twitter. 

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. Opinions are mine 100% as always. I was given product to review. 

Make The Switch to Turkey with Jennie-O and The Biggest Loser (recipe)

21 Feb

 Each year, many Americans commit to New Year’s resolutions focused on achieving a healthier lifestyle. However, by the second week in February, 80 percent of those resolutions are kicked to the curb as people try to implement impractical lifestyle changes. (U.S. News & World Report)

Essential to making healthy lifestyle changes stick, is taking small steps and setting realistic benchmarks, a lesson the trainers on NBC’s The Biggest Loser continuously preach to the show’s contests. In the spirit of making small, impactful changes, Biggest Loser trainer Jen Widerstrom taught contestants how to create a nutritious and delicious new Jennie-O breakfast recipe during the episode that aired Monday, Feb. 15. 
If you caught The Biggest Loser last week you saw this amazing recipe made featuring Turkey Breakfast Sausage Chilaquiles with JENNIE-O® Lean Mild Turkey Breakfast Sausage Roll. Created in collaboration with Biggest Loser RD Cheryl Forberg, the recipe puts a tasty, low-cal spin on a favorite south-of-the-boarder dish. Here is the recipe below:

  

Turkey Breakfast Sausage Chilaquiles

 

Serves 8

Prep time 20 mins

Total time under 30 mins

 

Ingredients

 

SAUCE

 

2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced fire roasted tomatoes

1 cup chopped onion

1 roasted red bell pepper

1 cup fat-free low-sodium chicken broth

¼ cup chopped cilantro

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

2 teaspoons chopped garlic

½ teaspoon chili powder

½ teaspoon ground mustard

½ teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon ground cumin

1 tablespoon chipotle chili in adobo sauce, if desired

salt and pepper, if desired

 

CHILAQUILES

1 (16-ounce) package JENNIE-O® Lean Mild Turkey Breakfast Sausage Roll

48 baked corn tortilla strips

½ cup thinly sliced red onion

¼ cup crumbled low-fat feta cheese

¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

1 medium avocado, died or ½ cup guacamole, if desired

 

DIRECTIONS:

Sauce:

In bowl of food processor or jar of a blender purée all sauce ingredients until smooth. Pour into a 2 quart sauté pan, simmer sauce, stirring, 3 minutes and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Keep warm. (Sauce may be made 2 days ahead and chilled, covered.) Yield 6 cups.

 

Chilaquiles:  

Cook turkey sausage as specified on the package. Always cook to well-done, 165°F as measured by a meat thermometer. Set aside.

Assemble Chilaquiles in shallow dishes or soup bowls. Crumble 6 tortilla chips into each bowl. Top with ¾ cup very hot sauce. Sprinkle with ¼ cup turkey sausage crumbles. Garnish with onion, feta cheese, cilantro and avocado, if desired.

I’m drooling just looking at the picture. I love turkey burgers, sausage and ground turkey and have made the switch from ground beef when making my favorite dishes. This recipe is definitely being saved as I will make this soon. For more information on the partnership and Biggest Loser-approved recipes, visit jennieo.com/partnerships/the-biggest-loser. @JennieO on Instagram. 

   
   
Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. Opinions are mine 100% as always. I was given product to review. 

Give Halo’s for Valentine’s Day The Healthy Alternative 

11 Feb

Celebrate your Valentine’s Day by giving your little angels a healthy snack alternative that’s filled with “pure goodness”!  

 Wonderful Halos mandarins are:

· A sweet, seedless and easy to peel snack that’s a healthy alternative to fatty foods

· About 50 calories delivering 45 percent of the recommended daily value of vitamin C 

 What better way to celebrate Valentine’s day with nature’s perfect valentine, Wonderful Halos! We’re making Valentine’s day easy this year. Learn how to make a healthy valentine that your kid’s classmates will love in just a handful of steps. Tutorials for how to make Halos Origami Heart and Halos Heart Box are available on their Facebook page and blog. A box of Halos makes enough valentines for an entire class AND you’ll get an A+ for originality this Valentine’s day. Think outside the chocolate box and replace unhealthy snacks and candy for a sweet and healthy Halo that’s sure to win your Valentine’s heart! 
 My kids and I enjoy Halo’s so much we can each eat about 2 a day. They prefer Halo’s than orange juice and I don’t mind. I always make sure to have them for their school lunch and afternoon snack. Sometimes my daughter will pick a Halo over dessert. I’m right there with her. We also take them with us when we’re out for the day and also on road trips. Have you seen the Halo’s commercials? We crack up every time we see them. 

Waking up to a nice juicy Halo is a great burst of energy. Easy to peel and there are no seeds to pick out. What’s better than that? What will you give your little ones for Valentine’s Day? The healthy way is a great way!! 

Check out @halosfun on Twitter and http://www.halosfun.com for videos and more info. Also check out Wonderful Halos on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/halos/videos?ref=page_internal

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was given product for my honest review. 

BJ’s Wholesale Club Bronx,NY Grand Opening & Giveaway

15 Jan

If you enjoy buying in bulk like I do then I’m here to let you know that BJ’s Wholesale Club just opened a new location in the (Riverdale) section of Bronx, NY. 184 W. 237th St. BJ’s is a membership-based warehouse club offering high quality merchandise and great savings. They have over 200 clubs in 15 states offering more than 7,000 products.  

I took a tour the night before the grand opening along with a few other bloggers. I was excited to see what BJ’s had in store. It was fun being in a big warehouse with just a few workers and checking everything out. Every aisle I turned down I was so impressed with what I saw. I had my eyes on the televisions and and desk and chair that I need. The store opened to the public January 9th. I currently live in Harlem but this location is not far from me.  

 There is a large selection of organic foods,  and if you ask the meat department they will cut meat to your preference. There is also freshly packed sushi platters, amazing seafood, lobster tails, enormous sheet cakes, variety of cheesecakes, rotisserie chicken already made for nights you don’t want to cook, variety of platters for parties or whenever occasion. 

  

  

    
  

I always stock up on juices, snacks, fruit, meats, etc for my big family. I really appreciate Clubs like these. I really save a lot.  

    
    
    
   
I was impressed with all the name brands of foods and foods I didn’t even know came in bulk. BJ’s provides high-quality products and top selling national brands including two exclusive product lines, Wellsley Farms and Berkley Jensen, which are all backed by BJ’s 100% money-back guarantee. Prices were beyond amazing and knowing that I can use my manufacturer coupons was so exciting.  

    
    
    
   
Memberships start at $50 for the entire year. 

Savings of more than 30% off supermarket prices acceptance of ALL manufacturers’ coupons, plus BJ’s own coupons

Convenient one-stop shopping

More ways to pay, including all major credit cards and EBT

Huge assortment of product categories for home and business

Thousands more products online at BJs.com

BJ’s Services for beyond–the–Club savings on vacations, new and rental cars, insurance, home improvement and more

BJ’s Optical® at more than 150 Clubs

BJ’s Gas® at more than 100 Clubs

If you’re in the neighborhood come by Saturday January 16th and Sunday January 17th at the grand opening celebration for food and beverage sampling balloon artists and face painters and don’t forget to join the club by checking out the memberships. 

To check out all the MORE BJ’s has to offer, visit http://www.BJs.com Hours are: Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. – 10 p.m. and Sunday, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. I had a great time and learned so much about BJ’s.  
   
GIVEAWAY:

BJ’s was kind enough to offer one of my readers a $50 gift card. Who wants to win? 

Comment below and tell me what you would buy with the gift card. 

Must be subscribed to my blog Five Little Words.

Must be following me on Twitter: @nilimonicky

Instagram: @nilimo

Like on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/fivelittlewords

Follow @BJSWholesale on Twitter 

Leave your handles for social media and email in the comment section.  

Giveaway ends: January 24. Winner announced January 25 on social media. 

 
Disclosure: I was invited to take a tour of this new location and given gift bag full of awesomeness. Opinions are mine 100% as always.

Success Rice In Just Ten Minutes & New Recipe

13 Jan

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This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Success® Rice. Opinions expressed are mine 100%.

When I go food shopping I always walk pass the boil-in-bag rice section because I’m not an expert in cooking that type rice the way I like which is soft and fluffy. In my household we eat a variety of rices but there are still a few I would love to cook, and the one that we love when we go out to eat is Jasmine rice. It goes perfect with Asian and traditional dishes. 

For the new year I thought this would be great to finally give boil-in-bag rice a chance. That’s where Success® Jasmine Rice came in. The first thing I liked about using this rice is it only takes 10 minutes to make and the package contained 4 bags. Perfect! Gives me just the right amount of rice for my big family and extra time to spend with them as well. No more standing over a pot waiting for my rice to cook and hopefully not burn. 

Success® Jasmine Rice is the only boil-in-bag Jasmine rice available. It has a buttery, nutty fragrance, silky, smooth grains and delivers fully cooked rice in 10 minutes. It’s pre-portioned, BPA-free boil-in-bag means no mess, no measuring involved. Why haven’t I tried this before?

Success® Rice is convenient, and can be made on the stovetop or microwave without sacrificing its great taste or quality.

Here’s my quick and easy recipe using fresh veggies and Success® Jasmine Rice. 

Asian Skillet Veggies with Jasmine Rice.  

Asian Skillet Veggies with Jasmine Rice

Asian Skillet Veggies with Jasmine Rice

 
     
Follow directions on box for the rice. You can choose whatever vegetables you like but these are what I picked. 

Onions

Peppers

Mushrooms

Celery

Broccoli

Cauliflower 

Zucchini 

Carrots

Red cabbage 

After stir frying veggies I made a sauce to go on top and created a more Asian flare. Here is the sauce I created. 

Cumin

Ginger

Honey

Soy sauce

Rice vinegar

Garlic in oil

Thai paste (red curry)

Salt

Pepper

I didn’t measure any of the ingredients for the sauce so just be sure to taste as you go. I enjoyed making this dish and my family enjoyed eating it. This meal was made in no time and can be used as a main or side dish. 

With 4 varieties available including: Success® Whole Grain Brown Rice and Success® White Rice, and globally-inspired aromatic varieties of Success® Rice, including fragrant Thai Jasmine or Basmati Rice, there’s a variety everyone in your family will love. Who’s ready to try Success® Rice? What variety would you like to try? Let me know in the comments section. 

For recipe ideas, special offers and more, join the Recipe Club®


Also check out their website:

They are also on Twitter: @SuccessRice 

Disclosure: This is a compensated post. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 



Wonderful Pistachios And My Culinary Experience 

18 Dec

I recently attended a Culinary Experience with Momtrends and Wonderful Pistachios at My Cooking Party in Chelsea, NYC. Walking into My Cooking Party’s loft was like attending a beautiful wedding reception or fancy Thanksgiving dinner. Everything decorated in white and just looked gorgeous. Our name tags showed us where to sit were placed on the table with Pistachios attached as a souvenir to take home.  

    
    
 The kitchen was so big I wanted to sign a lease to move in. My dream loft, kitchen and appliances all in one. There was also a window that you look directly at the Empire State Building. What a sight to see everyday.  

    
    
  
   
   
   
Cooking is in my blood. I am very passionate about food, recipes, and teaching my kids how to be great cooks/chefs. 

I am a pistachios lover along with other nuts and I was very excited to see how to use pistachios in recipes. Sure, I’ve had other type of nuts in food but never pistachios. I like eating pistachios right out the bag with or without the shells. 

After we were told what we were cooking we washed our hands and headed to our stations. Chefs demonstrated how to use the sharp knives and be careful not to lose any fingers. Picking stations was next. I picked the Spicy Roasted Squash with Wonderful Pistachios. It was very, very delicious. Here is the recipe: 

 *Spicy Roasted Squash with Wonderful Pistachios

Delicata and butternut squash are roasted together with warm spices and a bit of cayenne to heat things up. Crunchy Wonderful Pistachios and maple syrup are just the right additions for texture and sweetness. Garnished with pomegranate arils this dish is a celebration of flavors.

Prep: 18 minutes / Time to Table: 38 minutes / Serves: 8 (about 10 pieces of squash/person; about a cup/person)

 

1 ½ pounds butternut squash (4 ½ cups prepped)

2 ½ pounds delicata squash

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground allspice

¼ teaspoon ground cayenne

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

2 tablespoons olive oil

½ cup shelled Wonderful Pistachios Roasted & Salted, chopped

2 tablespoons maple syrup

¼ cup POM Wonderful pomegranate arils

2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley

 

1. Heat oven to 425°F. Line two baking sheets with aluminum foil.

2. Peel and seed butternut squash. Cut in half lengthwise and slice into ½ inch thick pieces. Cut in half again for quarters.

3. Cut delicata in half lengthwise and seed. Cut into ½ inch thick slices. Combine all the squash in a large mixing bowl.

4. Sprinkle the cinnamon, allspice, cayenne and salt over the squash. Mix thoroughly.

5. Melt the butter and stir into the olive oil. Drizzle over the spiced squash and mix thoroughly.

6. Transfer the squash to the baking sheets, arranging in a single layer. Bake for 15 minutes.

7. Stir and flip squash. Sprinkle with Wonderful Pistachios and drizzle with maple syrup. Bake another 5 to 7 minutes until pistachios are just toasted. Remove from the oven.

8. Arrange on a serving platter and sprinkle pomegranate arils over the squash. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Other Wonderful Pistachios meals on the menu that night included: 

1. Wonderful Pistachios, Peach and Barley Salad

2. Turkey Roulade with Wonderful Pistachio Pesto

3. Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges with Wonderful Pistachios, Goat Cheese and Pomegranate Glaze

4. Wonderful Pistachio and Cherry Popcorn Balls

5. Wonderful Pistachio Chocolate Brownie Cookies

6. Wonderful Pistachio Holiday Palettes

Here is one more recipe: 

Turkey Roulade with Wonderful Pistachio Pesto
Pistachios, apples and onions are stuffed in this impressive, but easy main course. A nutty Wonderful Pistachio pesto is the perfect accompaniment.

Prep: 1 hour 15 minutes / Time to Table: 2 hours 30 minutes / Serves: 6 to 8

 

Wonderful Pistachio Pesto:    

1½ cups baby spinach (about 2½ ounces)

1 cup shelled Wonderful Pistachios

2 large cloves garlic

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon pepper

¾ cup olive oil

 

Turkey Roulade:

½ cup dried cranberries

4 tablespoons olive oil, divided

1 yellow onion, diced into ¼-inch pieces (about 1½ cups)

1 granny smith apple, cored, and cut into ½-inch pieces (about 1 2/3 cups)

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

4 teaspoons fresh thyme

5 teaspoons fresh rosemary

¾ teaspoon salt, divided

½ teaspoon ground black pepper, divided

3 ounces day- old french bread, cut or torn into 1-inch pieces (about 1¾ cups)

¾ cup shelled Wonderful Pistachios, toasted, and roughly chopped

1 skinless, boneless, turkey breast half, butterflied (about 2½ lbs)

3 small red onions, cut into wedges

 

1. To make the pesto, place spinach, pistachios, garlic, salt and pepper in the bowl of a food processor. Slowly pour in oil, while machine is running, about 20 seconds. Pulse to completely combine. Set aside in the refrigerator, up to one day ahead.

2. To make turkey roulade, position oven rack in the center and heat oven to 375°F. Place cranberries in a small bowl and cover with boiling water. Let sit for 5 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.

3. Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a medium skillet on medium heat. Add onion and cook 5 to 7 minutes until softened. Add apple; continue to cook, 5 to 7 minutes, until onion and apples are golden. Add ½ cup chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoons pepper, and simmer. Stirring occasionally and scraping up any bits that stick to the bottom of the pan, about 5 minutes, until broth is absorbed and apples are softened. Transfer to a large bowl.

4. Add bread and cranberries to apples and stir to combine. Pour in ⅓ cup chicken broth and stir to combine. Add additional 2 tablespoons chicken broth, as needed, until bread is moist, but not wet. Stir in pistachios and set aside to cool.

5. Place turkey between sheets of plastic wrap, and pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin, to about ½-inch thick. Season each side with remaining ¼ teaspoons salt and ¼ teaspoons pepper. Place turkey, skinned side down on working surface. Spread stuffing over turkey leaving a border uncovered, about 1½-inches all around. Roll up and secure tightly with kitchen twine.

6. Heat a roasting pan (or large skillet), with 2 tablespoons olive oil, on medium to medium-high heat. Brown turkey roulade on all sides, 12 to 15 minutes. Set aside on a plate. Add wire rack to roasting pan and place turkey on rack. Combine onion wedges in a bowl with 1 tablespoons oil and place in roasting pan alongside turkey. Add ½ cup chicken broth to roasting pan and place in oven.

7. Cook for 1 hour and 15 minutes, until turkey temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from oven, transfer to a cutting board and tent with foil. Allow to rest 10 to 15 minutes, until juices have had time to absorb, before cutting into 6 to 8 slices.

8. Meanwhile, add remaining chicken broth (about ½ cup) to roasting pan, and scrape up any bits with a wooden spoon. Serve pan drippings alongside turkey with pistachio pesto.

 If you would like the recipes to any of the meals mentioned above just leave a comment below and I will get them to you. 

Check out @getcrackin on Twitter and Instagram. Also, http://www.getcrackin.com

I enjoyed the beautiful night with friends cooking, eating and everyone going around the table saying what we were thankful for. Everything was delicious and I’d like to thank Momtrends and staff for all the great events and opportunities they give. Can’t wait to see what 2016 brings.  

    
    
    
    
    
    
  Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I was compensated. Opinions are mine 100% as always. Some pictures courtesy of Momtrends. 

 

National Maple Syrup Day

17 Dec

Some things are just worth the wait. One of the sweetest food holidays of the year is back –National Maple Syrup Day, celebrated today, December 17. 

Don’t pour maple on your pancakes just yet. Maple from Canada – the largest maple-producing region in the world – scouted this year’s cookbooks, food blogs, social media channels and even bars to find 2015’s best maple recipes.

  
Meunster Apple and Maple Bacon Bourbon Grilled Cheese.

Ingredients

For the Bacon:

· 1 pound uncured bacon

· 2 tablespoons bourbon

· 2 tablespoons Pure Canadian Maple Syrup

For the Grilled Cheese:

· 2 pieces of multi-grain bread

· 2 pieces of muenster cheese, thinly sliced

· 4 pieces of apple, thinly sliced

· 1 piece of Maple Bourbon Bacon, cut in half

· ½ tablespoon butter

 

Instructions

For the Bacon:

· First, place bacon in medium-sized bowl. Then, pour in Pure Canadian Maple Syrup in bourbon. Toss to make sure everything is evenly coated. Let sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes.

· Next, heat a non-stick frying pan to medium/high heat. Then, place bacon strips on pan. Cook for a few minutes or until you can see the edges turning golden brown. Use a fork to flip and cook for 1-2 more minutes, or until it reaches your desired texture.

· Place cooked bacon on a plate lined with paper towels. Pat with another paper towel on top to remove excess grease.

· To finish cooking the rest of the bacon, pour existing bacon grease from pan into a small container and wipe clean with paper towels.

For the Grilled Cheese:

· Prepare your grilled cheese by lining a piece of multi-grain bread with thinly sliced muenster cheese. Then, add on the apple slices and bacon. Place 2nd piece of bread on top.

· Heat a nonstick pan to medium heat and rub with butter or coconut oil. Place sandwich on pan and cover. Let cook for about 3 minutes or until the bread begins to brown.

· Flip and cover again. Let cook for additional 2-3 minutes or until the bread begins to brown.

Curious about how pure maple syrup is made? It’s all tree to table. Peep our animated, French-Canadian video here: https://youtu.be/rW-WdXLvP2s

Here is the link for the recipes mentioned below: https://psbpr.box.com/s/8eqkeik8ykh7h2xmyin20x7kxptfkbc4

· Best Cocktail: Tanta’s Maple Syrup Cocktail (Eric Trousdale, bartender at Tanta Restaurant, Chicago), featuring whiskey, Amaro liqueur, Pisco brandy with pure maple syrup & lemon juice
· Best Breakfast: Maple Sweet Potato Coffee Cake (Katie Webster, author of the new single-ingredient cookbook “Maple”)

· Best Lunch: Muenster Apple and Maple Bourbon Bacon Grilled Cheese (Lee Hersh, Fit Foodie Finds)

· Best Snack: Maple-Bacon Popcorn (a social media favorite of Pure Canada Maple)

· Best Dinner: Smoky Sweet Turkey Chili (Katie Webster, author of the new single-ingredient cookbook “Maple”)

· Best Dessert: Maple Gingerbread Pots de Crème (Anne Mauney, FANNEtastic Foods) 

 Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was given samples of product to review. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 
 

What’s Inside My Holiday Gift Guide? 

4 Dec

What are you looking for in a holiday gift guide? Who are you shopping for? Does price matter? Do you shop online or in stores? Favorite stores, websites, charities. 

I’m listing my favorite fashion, beauty, houseware appliances, tech, toys and food items. Take a look and see what catches your eye. Some even make great stocking stuffers. Giving you a few ideas. Enjoy! 

HOUSEWARE APPLIANCES 

1. Ninja Coffee Bar with glass or thermal carafe makes classic, rich, over ice & specialty coffees. http://www.ninjakitchen.com

  
2. Nutri Ninja Auto-IQ Compact System Blender. Auto-iQ Smooth Boost technology takes drink customization to the next level. A unique combination of powerful Ninja blades, high-torque motor, and high speeds allows you achieve an even greater level of smoothness than Ninja has ever delivered before—all at the touch of a button. http://www.ninjakitchen.com

   
 

3. Power Pressure Cooker XL. Available in 6, 8 and 10 quart models. Save time, energy and money. Prepares succulent meals with one touch of a button up to 70% faster than conventional cooking. http://www.powerpressurecooker/TurkeyDude

  
4. KitchenAid Mixer. Artisan Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer. Choose over 20 colors, 10 speeds and the power hub fits optional attachments from food grinders to pasta makers. http://www.kitchenaid.com

  
5. KitchenAid Spiralizer Attachment. Reinvent classic meals and inspire your culinary creativity with the versatile KitchenAid Spiralizer with Peel, Core and Slice Stand Mixer Attachment. Make fresh fruit and vegetable recipe options, from zucchini noodles to sweet and savory dishes.

   
 
TECHNOLOGY

1. HP Envy 5540. The HP Envy All-in-One printer is a great compact solution for your home and office printing, scanning and copying needs. Now, when you buy the HP Envy 5540 e-All-in-One printer, it comes with 3 months free of HP Instant Ink! With HP Instant Ink you select your subscription plan and HP takes care of the rest so that you never run out of ink and printing costs a lot less! Ink, shipping, and cartridge recycling are included in your monthly plan. Plans start as low as $2.99/month and are based on pages printed, not cartridges used. There’s no annual fee and you can change or cancel plans online at anytime. Link to HP Envy 5540 e-All-in-One printer: http://bit.ly/HPEnvy5540Printer  Link to HP Instant Ink: http://bit.ly/HPInstantInk6

FREE INK OFFER: Now through December 31st, when you enroll your printer in HP Instant Ink, you will receive six free months of ink! To decide which plan is right for you and to enroll, visit http://bit.ly/HPInstantInk6 but remember to do it before December 31, 2015! 

   
   
2. Monster Products. 24K Backfloat Speaker. This is a rugged Bluetooth shower speaker, a floating speaker for the pool, and one of the best portable speakers around. Sing along in the shower or tub or float this powerful speaker in the Jacuzzi. Bring it to the campsite or to the beach. BackFloat is engineered to keep pumping out high-performance Pure Monster Sound no matter how wet things get. http://www.monsterproducts.com

  
3. My Charge Razor Max Rechargeable 6000mAh battery. RazorMax delivers an extra 27 hours talk time for your smartphone. This powerbank comes equipped with 2 USB ports and is perfect for charging two devices at once. With a 2.4A output, the RazorMax portable charger is great for charging tablets and other power thirsty devices. http://www.shop.mycharge.com

  

4. Monster ClarityHD High Performance Earbuds. Advanced construction with reinforcement at critical stress points. Ergonomically designed, with multiple ear tips for a better fit. Won’t fall out of your ears like other earbuds. Premium sound quality at an incredible value. Superior noise isolation. ControlTalk Universal for clearer calls, simple music controls. Flat, tangle-resistant cable. Extremely lightweight. Low-profile right angle connector. http://www.monsterproducts.com 

For a 20% discount on all products on Monster, please use promo code ‘MonsterNation’ at checkout. Offer good until December 25.

  
5. Lumee Case. LED lighting on both sides of the case give you a soft and beautiful light for every occasion. Dimmer Switch to control light output and let you control the light. Rechargeable battery and charging cord. Long lasting battery that works independently of your phone. I use for my IPhone 6. Check website for your phone. http://www.lumee.com

  
KIDS COOKING TOOLS

Thanks to Curious Chef – which provides real cooking tools designed just for kids – little ones can be more involved in the baking and cooking process as they aspire to be the next Cake Boss or Top Chef! These cooking tools are specifically designed for kids 4+ with safety and smaller hands in mind, helping inspire curiosity in the kitchen. http://www.curiouschef.com

1. 2 Quart Mixing Bowl – Designed with a sturdy base and easy grip handles, the 2-Quart Mixing Bowl helps your child mix up family favorites like cookies, pancakes or brownies

  
2. 2 Cup Clear Measuring Cup – Help your kids practice math and measurements with the 2 Cup Clear Measuring Cup, complete with color-coded measurements in both cup and ounce increments.

  
3. Medium Nylon Plastic Knife – Put your kids to work chopping with the Medium Nylon Plastic Knife, which is designed to be tough on foods and safer on skin than a metal blade. Also featuring an ergonomically-designed handle, this knife is easier for little hands to grasp.

  
4. Nylon Cookie Turner — Cookies and kids go hand in hand, especially when it comes to baking. The Curious Chef Nylon Cookie Turner real kitchen tool lets your child have a part in the cookie baking fun.

  
5. Actus Lunch Box. These collectible lunch boxes are designed for PEANUTS lovers of all ages! Choose your favorites from our PEANUTS lunch boxes, utensils kit, plastic mugs and many more! http://www.skaterlunch.com

   
  
TOYS

1. Guitar Hero Live. This is the first ever playable music video network and has launched with two 24-hour channels and hundreds of playable songs.The all new Guitar Hero. One game. Two ways to play. GH Live, where you can rock real crowds with real reactions.With a continually updating library of hundreds of videos across genres, there’s something for everyone. 

   

 
2. Shopkins. Moose Toys collectible characters from your favorite shops. Also in plush, backpacks and accessories. Seasons 1-3 available now while Season 4 will be available in December. Shopkins Plush are an Imports Dragon product. http://www.importsdragon.com and http://www.moosetoys.com
 
 
3. Pie Face Game. Hasbro has done it agin with this board game for the whole family filled with fun and suspense. Someone is bound to get a pie in their face. http://www.hasbro.com 

  
4. Barbie Fashionistas. These dolls are ready for anything dressed in a look you’ll love that’s perfect for daytime and nighttime fun. The fabulous fashion is right on trend and fits their style and personality perfectly. With an amazing pair of shoes and the perfect bag, the sensational look is complete! Girls can try new styles and play out a variety of stories with this delightful doll. http://www.shop.mattel.com

  
5. Star Wars Episode 7 Remote Control BB-8 – Only at Target. This remote control BB-8 figure rolls in any direction and makes expressive droid sounds as you lead him into adventure. Collect and battle with this and other figures, vehicles, and Star Wars toys. http://www.target.com

  
 FASHION

1. Hanes Hoisery. Hanes Hosiery’s new Fall 2015 collection features innovative styles that are the perfect balance of beauty and comfort. Hanes is revitalizing legwear this season with the introduction of X-Temp technology and solution based sheers, tights and leggings that compliment women of every age, nationwide.

The Hanes Power Shapers collection integrates the benefits of shapewear into legwear with run resistant technology that keeps every woman looking polished with a flawless finish from day to night. Available in a variety of deniers and a no hose® slimmer, the Hanes Power Shapers collection provides a smooth, no lines appearance, even under the most body conscious styles.

X-Temp tights from Hanes are designed to adapt to your body temperature providing comfort throughout the day. X-Temp technology is designed to adjust to your body’s temperature and activity to keep you comfortable and confident. X-Temp tights are available in a variety of styles from core opaques to boot liners, convertibles and smoothing leggings that can be dressed up or down for any occasion.

Website: http://www.hanes.com/onehanesplace/legwear/legwear-brands/all-hanes

2. L’eggs Tights. Introducing New L’eggs Energy Tights! By combining health & well being with fashion, L’eggs Energy delivers a true “feel good, look good” combination. By leveraging Beauty, Wellness, and Comfort macro-trends, the Energy Collection provides a compelling and affordable legwear solution. By integrating 360-degree Graduated Compression (which many millennials equate with sports/fitness), L’eggs Energy appeals across generations.

L’eggs Energy comes in Tights, Footless Tights and Trouser Sock styles in sizes S thru XL. 

Found for $7.99 or less at your local food, drug and mass merchandiser like CVS!

Website: http://www.hanes.com/onehanesplace/brands/our-brands/leggs

  
3. nicole by Nicole Miller. nicole by Nicole Miller Sleeveless Embellished Jumpsuit, $68 available at JCPenney and jcpenney.com 

nicole by Nicole Miller Feather Trim Dress, $86 available at JCPenney and jcpenney.com

nicole by Nicole Miller Pave Crystal Hinged Gold-Tone Cuff Bracelet, $34 available at JCPenney and jcpenney.com

  
4. Jord Wood Watches are focused on creating timepieces that are modeled after a modern lifestyle. They value sustainability, efficiency, and experiential living. They make their watches for people who don’t just have somewhere to be, they have somewhere to go. Scratch-resistant mineral glass deployment buckle with push buttons. http://www.woodwatches.com

  

5. Heavenly Touch Denim from Riders by Lee.  Slimming Stretch denim is now softer than ever! Touching is believing with Heavenly Touch denim, the innovative fabric construction that is ultra-soft. And with the right amount of stretch, these jeans are as comfortable as your favorite sweats, but are infinitely more flattering! Soft & comfortable, slimming & flattering…look good feel great. http://www.lee.com and http://www.kmart.com

  
FOOD

1. Deep River Snacks. The high quality snack brand that “Gives a Chip” is more than just a bag of chips… they pride themselves on doing right in everything they do. All snacks non-GMO, made in a nut-free facility and contain no artificial dyes, flavors or preservatives. And each bag uses its packaging real estate to raise awareness for a specific charity!
This holiday season, Deep River Snacks is offering four special edition snack packs that make the perfect gift or stocking stuffer:

Chips & Charity – an assortment of kettle chips plus a $10 charity gift certificate that the recipient can use to make a donation to their favorite non-profit
Snack Attack – 24 bags of delicious kettle chips with 12 different flavors to enjoy

Turn Up The Heat – a collection of the brand’s hottest flavors for those who love some heat: Zesty Jalapeño, NY Spicy Dill Pickle and Aged Cheddar & Horseradish

Holiday Crunch – an assortment of red, green and white bags perfect for parties, stockings, hostess of teacher gifts and combining three of the top selling kettle varieties: Original Salted, Mesquite BBQ and Zesty Jalapeño

Party Pleasers – an 80 count box of 1 oz bags of kettle chips

http://www.deepriversnacks.com

 

 
2.Woodbridge Wine. Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi is pleased to introduce the limited-edition Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Harvest Spiced Red Blend. A unique red blend with flavors of rich red berries accented with cinnamon, vanilla, and clove, this blend is the perfect accompaniment to festive gatherings with friends and family. Available for $5.99-7.99 per 750 mL bottle, the Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Harvest Spiced Red Blend is delicious served at room temperature, or can also be heated on the stove with cinnamon sticks, orange slices and cloves, for a cozy mulled cocktail treat.

  
3. POM Juice. Sweet, a little tart, and a whole lot of healthy. Powered by pomegranate antioxidants, it’s authentic, delicious and 100% pure. There is no added sugar, colorants or cheap filler juices. Also Super Teas, Juice Blends, Fresh Fruit and Fresh Pomegranate Arils. There’s also loads of recipes available online: http://www.pomwonderful.com

  
    
 

4. Del Monte Fusion. Del Monte Fruit & Veggie Fusions come in 3 delicious flavors: Peach Mango, Apple Pear Watermelon, Cherry Fruit Trio. 1 snack cup = 1 combined serving of fruit & veggies, (contains 1 serving (1/2 cup) that is 75% fruit and 25% vegetables, per USDA Nutrient Data), No high fructose corn syrup, No artificial flavors or sweeteners, Excellent source of Vitamin C, Available nationwide for $2.99 for four 4oz cups. 

  
5. Military Match K-Cup Pods Variety Blends. Buy four boxes of our 18-count K-Cup pods and they will match your order with four additional boxes, plus our signature Military Match mug – FREE! They will also send all 8 boxes plus a signature military mug to the APO/FPO or military base address you provide – it’s all part of our MIlitary Match Gift Box Program! This gift set includes two 18-count boxes of each: Dark Roast, Cafe Special, Breakfast Blend and 100% Colombia Altura K-Cup pods and one Military Match mug. http://www.communitycoffee.com

 
6. Siracha2Go.  The perfect package for the Sriracha lover who needs to always be equipped with their favorite hot sauce. http://www.siracha2go.com 

    
  
BEAUTY

1. Alien by Thierry Mugler. Mysterious and fascinating, ALIEN perfume has the power to illuminate and reveal a radiant, feminine aura. ALIEN fragrance brings out the solar goddess in every women. … Thierry Mugler ALIEN perfume at the ALIEN perfume Source, or with refill bottles and ALIEN eco-refills! http://www.macys.com and http://www.muglerusa.com

  
2. Aveeno Positively Radiant Brightening Cleanser helps improve skinny one, texture and clarity.  Oil free, hypoallergenic and noncomedogenic. Luminous looking skin after removing dirt, oil and makeup. http://www.aveeno.com

3. Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 evens tone and texture in 30 days. http://www.aveeno.com

 
 
4. Younique Moodstruck 3D Fiber Lashes+ Mascara. Increase your average lash volume by up to 400%. My lashes definitely increased in length and looked full and amazing. Never seen my lashes this long before. http://www.youniqueproducts.com

 
 
5. Zest FruitBoost Shower Gel. All four Zest Fruitboost varieties revitalize with gentle moisturizers and skin-nourishing, antioxidant-rich Vitamin C. Every Zest Fruitboost 10oz tube lasts up to 40 showers, so a little quarter size amount goes a long, long way. And at a suggested retail price of $2.99, a huge boost for wallets everywhere.  Available in four luscious, fruit-filled scents — Citrus Splash, Very Berry, Peach Mango, and Pomegranate Acai. Available at Walmart stores. http://www.zest.com

  
6. Dove Hair Oxygen Moisture Shampoo & Conditioner collection, which provided 95% more volume after one wash. http://www.dove.us.com and http://www.walmart.com

  

DONATIONS:

1. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. What are you grateful for? Join our community of supporters​, patients, partners and celebrity friends and let the world know you support the kids of St. Jude.When you donate $1, you’re helping save lives. http://www.stjude.org

2. No Kid Hungry. Instead of another ugly sweater, send your family and friends beautifully designed and printed holiday cards from No Kid Hungry. 100% of the proceeds go toward the mission feeding our nation’s hungry kids. This holiday season, help us reach our holiday goal of providing 10 million meals to kids in need. http://www.nokidhungry.org

Disclosure: The HP printer/InstantInk part of this post listed under Technology is sponsored campaign with Mom Select. All opinions are mine 100% as always. All other items were either reviewed or just something I liked and added to my gift guide. 

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