My Thing Right Now Is Chewing

Posted on July 26, 2012 by Katharina

Hi everyone! I’ve got some exciting things to share with you.

First off, at the beginning of August I’ll be teaching a workshop in South Florida. So if there are any readers who are in the area or know somebody who’d be interested, I encourage you to check out the event. Since I’ve been collaborating with Perricone MD on their Summer Beauty Foods, I thought it would be a great idea to share these concepts and recipes in person. For more information click over here.

Also, I was contacted by a journalist for the Voice of Russia asking if they could talk to me about being a flexitarian. It was interesting to receive that e-mail because I didn’t consider myself one. Since I started to consume fish, I dropped the “vegetarian” label, and didn’t seek to grab another one. It was an interesting thought to ponder though since technically I fall under the definition of “flexitarian”. It got me to reflect on my heightened sense of intuition. Whether I am eating by raw vegan or flexitarian standards, since breaking a mold I made for myself (with good intentions albeit) I’ve become more in tune with how to balance my body. This changes throughout the day. In fact, for dinner I was going to eat asparagus with a sauce I had made, but I was leaning more towards a simple squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some sea salt. With that, it was an absolute pleasure talking with the journalist, and here’s the article she wrote on the notion of this dietary path: Flexitarians: new meat-eating vegetarians healthy life style

A series of events

Speaking of rebalancing myself, two weekends ago a bout of food poisoning struck me and I happened to document it through different phases.

Exhibit a) before I knew what was going to happen… my stomach was feeling upset, but I didn’t know to what degree. So I had made a puree of papaya, fresh limejuice and ginger, a bit of honey, and salt. Note: it’s still a brilliant pink even when it’s thrown up.
Exhibit b) not breakfast the next day because breakfast the next day definitely did not happen. Apple sauce to test the waters when I could stand to eat anything.
Exhibit c) I had an appetite, but was still feeling sensitive towards certain foods so I made a mild healing soup with kombu.

So now I’m also making more of an effort to chew my food well.

And now, more link love! I wish I could do more formal updates on my blog with what I’m up to, but I invite you to follow me on Twitter and Facebook to read some of my articles and recipes that are showing up around the internet. I’m very excited to be collaborating in this way! Okay, okay so here are some links that you can click on for recipes and tidbits of information!

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Insights Can Come In Small Ways

Posted on April 27, 2012 by Katharina

Hello, hello! Today a friend told me that she spotted an article I submitted to Apartment Therapy featuring my parents’ garden. I had planned on sharing some of my latest memories from their garden already, so that exciting news came in seamlessly! Check it out:

Katharina’s Food Revolution

With that in mind, I just want to express some mushy love towards my parents. Like the article said, in the beginning when I was studying I left a tiny garden behind for my parents to watch over. Low and behold when I came back, it was untouched and had dried up. It’s okay though… no hard feelings, Mom and Dad! But a few years later, my parents stepped up to their own plates and started a venture into the world of organic gardening. I think it’s an examples of all those sayings that talk about going on or making our own paths. What’s important to each of us is something that we discover through our own experiences, and we add them to our files, sometimes making them a part of our daily priorities. And the thing is… what matters to me may not matter to someone else. Hearing about the beginnings of the garden when I’d talk to my parents on the phone, and seeing its growth on each visit–especially during my last one–has been a joyful experience. From my parents triumphantly sharing the gardens’ bounty, to hearing about all of the efforts that go into keeping an organic garden. It’s just helped bring something back into my parents’ spirits that I can hear in their voices and see in their eyes. It lies within their hearts. I must say though, that I’m glad that me and my family have a strong kinship, made even stronger by being able to share the things we care about. It wasn’t always like that either though.

: Shades of red

Actually, taking a step back, I think this garden has inspired and revived a wholesome way of being within my family. Much how I meditate on the parallels between life and what goes on in a kitchen or a yoga mat, my family has been living those lessons through the garden. A garden doesn’t just come out of nowhere, unless it’s the Garden of Eden. Although things do grow in the wild, there is a caring and thoughtful energy that goes into tending a garden. You learn where the plants seem to thrive the most, next to which plants, how much to water them, when to water them, rubbing olive oil on their leaves to protect them from hungry worms, all their little secrets. Similar to how we take care and learn from the relationships we have with people in our lives. When I would walk through the garden, checking up on the plants, I would breathe out a loving feeling. After all, they do “eat” CO2. And as I’m walking through life I see my words and actions as a bridge–a connection–to this world. An opportunity to build one.

: A tiny plum tomato meets something its own size… my eye!

With tomatoes being picked by the basketful, my family was coming up with ways to prepare them, aside from popping them into our mouths.

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Gifts From The Garden

Posted on March 23, 2012 by Katharina

The two winners of the giveaway are Billie Jean and Audrey!

I’ll be contacting you about your prizes to get them sent to you. I loved reading what you all had to say, and some of you are trying out tofu for the first time! I’ll definitely be posting more tofu recipes, and make some videos answering some of your questions about this food.

In other news, my dear friend, Lynn from The Actor’s Diet, is raising money for her next film The Man’s Guide to Love. It’s a movie inspired by her husband’s site “The Man’s Guide to Love,” which ended up getting critical acclaim. So this is where they’ve landed–from being online, to becoming a book, and now a movie! In the spirit of social media they’re raising funds through Kickstarter, and reaching out through anyone who wants to help out. Every bit counts, and of course, helping spread the word counts too! Keep the buzz going because they’re raising funds until April 19th. Contribute by clicking here.

And on the garden front…

The tomatoes are unstoppable!

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I am Worth It

Posted on August 25, 2010 by Katharina

Here’s a little reminder to all of you from my last post, in case you missed it!

I was contacted by Kroeger Herbs to give you all the opportunity to win a bottle of their Serenity and Healthy Gut herbal combinations. They were kind enough to ask me which of their products I thought you all would benefit from the most. I remembered in one of my past posts that many of you mentioned that unnecessary stress makes its way into your lives, and I also know that many of you also have some tummy issues; so I thought these two products would be great! Now here’s what you have to do to have a chance at winning (yoohoo!):

1. Go to their site and comment on this post telling me something you learned.

Additional entries (don’t forget to comment on this post telling me you did these things):

2. Sign up for their newsletter.

3. Follow them on Facebook.

4. Follow them on Twitter.

Make sure to get your entries in by Friday, August 27. Best of luck everyone!

They also generously offered me some to try for myself!

As a sculpture student and living in an urban area, I think the Energy Food and EnvironmentalX supplements will be very beneficial to me. And who doesn’t have moments of stress? That’s where Serenity comes in. I’ll let you all know what I think of these after I’ve had them for awhile.

Cold oats with warm hot cocoa made with coconut milk

In my eyes coconuts can do no wrong, especially when using their milk to make hot cocoa.

Lately, I've been feeling like I'm on cloud nine.

Bouncing around cloud nine = cooking mojo featuring farmer's market finds!

I cooked some onions and garlic with turmeric, then threw in some beans, tomatoes, and kale. Then when the heat was lowered was when the olive oil, shredded mango chutney, and tamarind chutney decided to join in on the party! Cilantro for garnish, but then I decided to eat it separately since it didn’t go well with this. The real stars of this though are those adorable tomatoes! I got a bowl of them at the market for $1.00.

Lately, I’ve been trying to make a more conscious decision about who my money is going to. This leads me to that realization that I may be spending a little more than usual. When I’m away at school, I feel like I’m on a financial… leash? But you know what? It’s one thing to be mindful of my purchases, but another to incessantly feel like I have to justify everything I get. While I was down in Florida, I didn’t feel this sort of pressure because my parents were there “okaying” everything. For instance, I bought organic things (dirty dozen, anyone?) and there was no second-guessing. This pressure I put on myself comes from me not having a job and being 100% financially dependent on my parents. A friend pointed out though that she’s in the same situation, but it’s not like she doesn’t work hard. She’s right, and I do work hard! Okay, so I’m going to stop rambling and leave it at that. Whatever. I am worth it. Not to mention, when I’m buying something straight from the farmer… well, it’s no longer just about me. It’s about community and helping one another in some shape or form.

Biked down to one of the local farmer's markets with a friend.

Some of the vendors have been doing this for decades (one of them for more than a generation) and they can use their own hands as scales--and I'm pretty sure they're not gipping me.

But back to tomatoes; they are also good for liver health. Tomatoes have a detoxification effect in the body. Probably it is due to the presence of chlorine and sulfur in tomatoes. ”Actually, in the United States, more tomatoes are consumed than any other single fruit or vegetable. Tomatoes far outdistance oranges, potatoes, lettuce, peas, carrots, and bananas!“Although in ayurveda they are generally avoided because they are a nightshade food, meaning they have aggravating qualities. Afterall, tomatoes used to be known as “wolf peaches”. Maybe that’s why the Italian men howl at all of the pretty ladies who walk by! Anyway, I had tried to reduce my tomato consumption, but you know what? I’m not the kind of person who strictly follows one philosophy. These are ideas, some of them make sense, and some of them will just never float my boat. But I also read that not all people in ayurveda are sensitive to the nightshade foods. However, people suffering from these conditions are advised to avoid them: arthritis, eczema, acid reflux disease, cystitis, lupus, and psoriasis. I also wanted to share an interesting article I found written by Junji Takano, a Japanese health researcher: “Tomatoes and Its Medicinal Properties“.

Goodies!

I need more plantains in my life pronto!

It’s funny how much more you appreciate something you haven’t had in awhile. A serious revival and a delicious reunion! I fried some plantains with beans, sea salt, thyme, shredded mango chutney, and coconut oil. Then I served over some romaine, and other veggies. Really simple. I realized that I use onions in practically all of my cooking, and I found out that they reduce kidney and liver damage associated with uncontrolled blood sugar level. I just don’t advise taking a bite out a raw onion bulb.

Recently, I decided to use my secret oat bar recipe and make something fun like muffins instead!

Proof that we eat with our eyes first, because these just magically seem to taste better!

I’ve already made a couple batches so I can just grab-n-go-go-go. My classes finally start up tomorrow and I am so excited! I have a Human Spirituality class in the early morning and a Contact Improv dance class right after. Wish me luck!

Happiness Often Sneaks in Through a Door You Didn’t Know You Left Open

Posted on September 29, 2009 by Katharina

Hi guys! I’ve been quite a busy girl lately – thanks to school. I’m learning so many things this semester that I want to share with other people! That’s always a good sign, don’t you think? I haven’t just been on the “learning” end of the deal either though. I’ve done some teaching as well! Not necessarily in a classroom setting, but instead I’ve been flourishing in my interests and sharing them with other people. For instance, now a lot of people know that I actually have a passion for cooking; I decided to make a cooking album on Facebook. I think a lot of people were surprised! I’ve also made a new friend that I met at a yoga class. It’s nice to meet people in a setting where you are doing something you truly enjoy, because you’ve got that in common. Then when you hang out and get to know each other, the friendship just grows into something incredible! And now that I’ve been kind of absent for a couple days, I think it’s only fair to share with you all what I’ve been up to. Can’t leave my friends in the dark now can I?

Banana ricotta soft-serve makes my day!

I topped the “soft-serve” with Zoe’s Cinnamon Raisin Granola, some more banana slices, and chocolate sprinkles. I’ve seen a lot of bloggers incorporate chocolate chips in their breakfasts, and this is me making due with what I’ve got! Actually, it’s very appropriate since underneath it all is an “ice cream” of sorts.

A parfait in honor of K!

I changed the ingredients just a smidge for the banana ricotta soft-serve. Rather than vanilla extract, I used coconut extract. Wow! This was also heavenly. I got the soft-serve to stay in it’splace by putting an apple slice underneath – improvising here folks! So what are the layers? Let me start from top to bottom: crunchy peanut butter, Erewhon’s Cocoa Crispy Brown Rice, banana ricotta soft-serve, apple slice, and some more of the cocoa crispies.

For this meal I wanted to do something out of the ordinary.

I used romaine as a sort of platter.

Then I decided to make rolls.. wraps.. not sure what to call this.

I love the freshness of this! I never cease to be amazed by the color palette nature offers us.

I also tried to make another interesting sandwich combo to go along with the romaine... boats?

This sandwich is on Cranberry Cinnamon Swirl bread and filled with eggplant, cheddar cheese, and mango chutney. I wasn’t sure if the eggplant would taste good with my favorite grilled cheese combo. How was it? Incredible!!! Definitely worth boasting about. I just remembered at a restaurant I went to they had breaded eggplant with an apricot coulis – so I thought I could try this. I’m glad I did!s

Now they look like dumplings! And I'm apparently trying to mimic them?

A beautiful snack.

Ak-mak crackers with cream cheese and edamame hummus, sprouts, grape tomatoes, and cucumber slices. Yum!

I made myself a pizza with polenta crust.

I roasted eggplant, parsnips (first time trying them!), and grape tomatoes; sautéed the onion. Then I just plopped some ricotta on and it all went into the toaster oven. After it was done baking I garnished it with some basil. I really like parsnips… a lot! Funny story with the basil. I got those leaves from a basil plant that’s growing out of a crack in a sidewalk. The plant is huge and full of delicious leaves! Nature’s way of breaking through despite what man builds on top.

Unfortunately, the crust didn't bake completely, so I ate this beautiful mess.

After happily eating my personal “pizza” I headed over to David Schultz’s CD release show. At the beginning they showed a brief documentary of their recording process, and their experience of life as musicians.

Now he's got a band!

Hanging out with my new friend, Emily. I also saw some old ones!

On Sunday I gave my baby, Matilda, a bath!

She's cute no matter what!

More sunshine!

This salad consisted of a Falafel Sunshine burger, red onion, tomato, an apple, avocado, sprouts, romaine, and cilantro dressing. Oh! I also squirted some ketchup on the burger. The addition of the apple in the salad was awesome! On the side I had the rest of the apple with a glass of cold soymilk. Perfect for an unexpectedly hot day. Oh man, I feel really stupid. In my review of the Sunshine burgers I said that they had corn. Well, that’s what it looked like! Then I read the ingredients and I believe those are actually lentils. So sorry for the misinformation. My opinion on how great these are didn’t change though – so no worries about that.

My Sunday was filled with lots of studying! But I managed to squeeze in a dinner at the school cafeteria with a friend. Since I don’t have a meal plan, I rarely end up going. My friend, Jonathan, invited me to dinner and we got to catch up on things. I also gave him advice on finding a roommate and which rental companies to stay away from. This is his first year in college so he had a lot of questions, and I had a lot to say!

Hi Jonathan!

Shafer!

Everytime I go here, I feel like it’s my first time. There are just so many choices – they even have a vegan and gluten-free area.

Food! Food! Food!

I got a bowl filled with snap peas, mushrooms, water chestnuts, onions, cucumbers, chickpeas, and hummus. I love their hummus! I actually was planning on bringing a tupperware with me to hijack some, but I forgot it at home. My bad! I also got another plate filled with spiced carrots, veggie pizza, mock ribs in BBQ sauce and peppers, a slice of Italian bread, a vegetable medley pasta (completely tasteless). I also tried some gluten-free French toast sticks – they were awful! I can’t remember the last time I ate something that disgusting. I was actually contemplating spitting it out, but we were in a public place.

He left me a little surprise on my camera!

Let’s see… what other things can I share with you all? Oh yes! I’m not sure if you guys know Jenny but she has an awesome blog that will make you hungry just looking at it! Recently, she put together a “best of” oatmeal post. Check it out! You will be inspired by all the wonderful creations all the bloggers have concocted. And trust me, this is way better than any “Best of” VH1 ever aired.

As for me, I’ve got my critique I told you all about, tomorrow! I’m looking forward to it now. Things are finally starting to calm down a little with my schoolwork load. And in 2 weeks I will be going to my parents’ house down in Florida for my 4-day weekend!

p.s. I just want to say hi to any new readers! HI!!! Here’s to a wonderful week! For some reason I feel like I’m on cloud nine; anybody want to come along for the ride?

Another First

Posted on September 16, 2009 by Katharina

The missing flavor is Lemon Ginger (tried that awhile ago)

The lovely people over at Kardea generously sent me 4 of their bars to sample. A lot of their products are known to aide in cholesterol management. I know Cheerio’s help with that too, but these my dear readers, are the bomb.com. I’ve already decided that I’m going to try the Banana Walnut bar last because I like to save the best for last. Although, I have a feeling it really wouldn’t matter because so far out of the ones I’ve tried, they’re awesome. A lot of bars taste good, but they don’t quite live up to the name of their flavors. However, these bars actually taste like what they’re named. The Lemon Ginger bar wasn’t overwhelming at all – it was just right.

Next up was Cranberry Almond.

I’m not sure if the strange look of it is because it was delivered to me when it was really hot out. Cranberry check. Almond check. These don’t even taste like nutritional bars (in a very good way)! Just delicious. I’ll give you guys some info on these bars:

Banana Walnut, Chai Spice, Cranberry Almond, and Lemon Ginger

Plant Sterols-1 gram

Total Fiber-7 grams with 5 grams Soluble Fiber

Heart Healthy Soluble Fiber-3grams

Protein-7 grams with 3.5 grams Soy Protein

Vegetarian-Friendly (Chai Spice & Banana Walnut Are Vegan)

Kosher Certified

Only 150 Calories/Bar

No Trans Fats

Lower Glycemic Formulation

I’m surprised that these bars haven’t caught on with a lot of folks actually. They are truly delicious, and good for your heart!

So guys, what have I been up to?

Last Saturday my friend organized an eating contest at a park, and I was the judge/scooper. What’d they have to eat? Mashed potatoes! All participants had to bring in a bag. Kim also brought fake bacon bits, which was a good idea. And I kindly offered my assistance to anyone who felt they could no longer fulfill their “duties”.

Huge piles!

Kim's got her game face and Rodman jersey on.

Let the eating begin!

Serving it soup kitchen style.

Tuning out to keep from... well, you know.

The victory bite!

Tiara didn’t really look too happy, but atleast she won! This girl kicks butt.

Later that night I decided to bake around the witching hour. Well, more like 3 hours before because supposedly the witching hour is at 3 am.

Cinnamon-Raisin Biscotti

I was browing through biscotti recipes and found one that I had the ingredients for. I wanted to make lemon ginger biscotti but, alas, I had no crystallized ginger and I’m sure this was something my neighbor wouldn’t have had either. The aroma of these wafting in the apartment as they were baking and I was studying… it made my life a little sweeter.

Can you believe I baked these in my toaster oven?

Perfect sidekick for a bowl of oats.

Like my girl, Janetha, I love cinnamon. I went a little crazy with it and this is why -ladies and gentlemen- my oats are brown. I put a big spoonful of peanut butter and a little one of my Date and Almond Creme spread. To add the finishing touch to this bowl of oats, I bruleed some bananas a la Katie! The cinnamon is hogging the spotlight though.

The last of my peanut butter!

I tried to do this blob of peanut butter justice by making a bowl of PB&J oats. Holla at the peanut butter queen, Jenny! As I was saying goodbye to one jar of yummy goodness, I said hello to Crofter’s Blueberry Superfruit spread. Ah so good, and I could see the tiny blueberries in there. I don’t bother with jellies that don’t even have an inkling of a fruit, but Crofter’s spreads are jam packed with real fruits. Did ya catch that?

I’ve really been inspired by everyone’s blogs lately, and last week I was reading Sophia’s blog and she had posted a recipe that seemed way too good to just look at.

Kabocha Soup with Bacon and Goat Cheese

Unfortunately, the fake bacon bits that were brought the eating contest were finished off, so I couldn’t sprinkle them on! So I made the best of it and blended in some ketchup, smoke sauce, and Worcestershire. How do you say that word anyway?

A big mug of soup, cinnamon + coconut oil + almond milk + brown rice, tomato slices + roasted red pepper hummus.

I kept the skin on so that's why it's green... I also thought I could do a swirly affect with the cream.

Hey Sophia… this was awesome!!! I love this girl’s blog. Not only does she have a refined taste for things that taste delicious, but she also shares a piece of her mind and heart with her readers in every post.

Oh... and this mug is absurdly HUGE!

There are so many bloggers to talk about in this post. I had the chance to actually meet a fellow blogger yesterday. If you guys don’t know her already, I met up with Brittany from Eating Bird Food. It’s always neat to see when you guys meet up with other bloggers. Some of you hit it off and became partners in crime like Brooke and Kailey! Holly and Angharad too! All the meet-ups just seemed like so much fun. Brittany and I agreed to meet up at Ipanema, a vegetarian and vegan restaurant. I was so excited when she suggested we go there – hell yeah girl! I love that place, and a couple of my friends work there as well.

The only menu in the place is written on the chalkboard.

This place reminds me of Germany because you walk down, like walking into a Ratskeller. A Ratskeller is basically a tavern below street level and it’s the city hall’s basement. When Brittany walked through the door I immediately though, “oh my gosh she’s so pretty and adorable!” We looked through the menu and when we decided on what we wanted, we made our way into one of the booths.

Indian pizza

Service was rather fast that night! Oh gosh, I can’t remember exactly what this entailed, but I’ll give it a shot. I ordered an Indian pizza with a curry sauce, zucchini, cauliflower, red onions, and paneer. The sauce was strangely zesty and for some reason I was envisioning a red or orange curry sauce. It was good, but I probably wouldn’t order it again. The side salad’s dressing was yummy though! I tried some of what Brittany ordered as well. She got their Thai carrot soup, which resembled baby food haha! But it was very tasty. She also got a spinach salad with pears, gorgonzola, and pecans. That combination is always a winner in my book.

It was getting late and after talking it up, we asked for our checks. Brittany, it was so nice meeting you! You’re so kind and polite – can’t wait till our puppies meet! And next time, I’m taking more pictures!

She also gave me a baggie of tomatoes grown with TLC.

These are delicious by the way! I love popping little tomatoes in my mouth. You take one bite and BOOM there’s a burst of flavor.

Well guys, I’m going to save some stuff for my next post. I tend to get carried away with my posts, and I don’t want anyone to be overwhelmed with my kitchen adventures haha! Since I mentioned so many other bloggers in this post, I think it’s appropriate to spread the word on this bit of exciting Blogworld news:

Foodbuzz has announced its 1st-Annual Foodbuzz Blog Awards!

The categories are:

Best Overall Blog

Best New Blog

Best Wine Blog

Best Cocktail/Spirits Blog

Best Baking Blog

Best Food Photography Blog

Best Visual Blog (graphic design)

Best Writing Voice

Best Healthy Living Blog

Best Green/Sustainable blog

Best Family Blog

Best Recipe Blog

Best Blogger Humanitarian Effort

Best Community Blog Effort

Most Humorous Food Blog

They’ve also got another section!

Blogger you’d most want to:

1. Take to dinner

2. Cook a meal for you

3. Be your personal Sommelier

4. Create you a cocktail

5. Watch on Food Network

6. Watch on Iron Chef

7. See open up their own restaurant

8. See their blog made into a movie

So go out there and vote everyone!

It’s Wednesday everyone! Is it just me or did it feel like the end of the week on Monday and Tuesday? Well, now we’re finally getting there!

Plates Full of Color

Posted on June 26, 2009 by Katharina

I swirled in some boysenberry jam. It was like a PB&J sandwich!

Another fun bowl of oats!

Today started out with a bang! It seems that’s how a lot of days end. What caused this explosion? I swirled some boysenberry jam in my oatmeal and it reminded me of a PB&J sandwich. I want to share Heather’s favorite bowl with everyone. It’s one of the best ideas ever! This “bowl” had another inspiration in it. I boiled my oats in chai tea just like Jemima. Yummy idea, girl!

Oats were served with peach slices, blueberries, and some special sauce I made.

I finally got around to baking something! I was looking through recipes and I settled on Angela’s doughnut recipe. However, I opted to make doughnut “holes”. I made a vanilla apple glaze for them. These were delicious! I can’t wait to try out some more of her recipes.

Cooling down.

Fully dressed and ready to go out on the town, or in my belly!

A wrap stuffed with beans, corn, eggplant, and tomato.

Can you feel the love?

A little pecan pie.

I saw the cutest little idea for a date the other day in a post from Erin on Care to Eat. A mini “pecan pie”! Let’s just say I wanted to go on another date, and another, and another… I basically ran out of dates. Uh… I should probably find myself a real boyfriend, huh?

My favorite grilled cheese sandwich recipe!

I discovered the most wonderful recipe in a magazine a few years ago when I hosted a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich party. Since I didn’t have pumpernickel bread, I just used what I had on hand.

Grilled Cheddar Cheese Sandwich with Mango Chutney

2 slices pumpernickel bread
1 tablespoon butter (room temperature)
2 slices cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon mango chutney

1. Assemble the sandwich and grill until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.

I mixed avocado oil and balsamic vinegar for the tomato slices, which were topped with a ginger “rose” and fresh oregano. In that cup on the left hand corner is an incredible protein smoothie my dad made. I’m not sure what was in it, but it was awesome! On the other plate is a Wasa rye crispbread with peanut butter spread on top and some blackberries.

And some delicious honey to smear on top of my peanut butter!

Tomato slices topped with chopped macadamias, fresh oregano, and an oil/vinegar blend.

I looked through my box of samples to look for the perfect pairing for my veggies. I decided on the Crispy Parmesan flavor to go with some TJ’s horseradish hummus. Since I’m doing a review I think it’s only fair to be honest. I wasn’t a big fan of this particular flavor. It just seemed to be lacking something, but I couldn’t quite put my finger on it.

Zucchini and almonds are so delicious together! My plate is making a face at me.

Goat cheese crumbles on top of the beans were a wonderful last minute decision.

I planned on going to the beach today, but I was too lazy to drive. Too lazy to drive? What is that you say? Instead I just lounged around by my pool and started reading the sixth Harry Potter book.

Matilda is my little poolside buddy!

I am now trying to even out my tan, no thanks to these shoes. They also happen to be my favorite!

365 Everyday Value®

So I thought buying things from the bulk bins were supposed to be cheaper than packaged items. Well, yesterday Whole Foods proved me wrong. Their private label 365 Everyday Value® is $3.00 cheaper per lb. for cashews. I don’t understand why, but it is what it is. I even checked online, and they were actually cheaper per lb. than any other website. I’m not sure if it’s like that for their other products, but I’m going to go back to Whole Foods to find out! I need to stock up on nuts anyway.

I made a chocolate banana shake using one of the samples Sun Warrior sent me.

The verdict? I wish I had more!

I found out that the folks at Sun Warrior are practically my neighbors. Convenient? Yes. Coincidence? No – just meant to be! I have yet to try the vanilla flavor.

I spot a TJ Maxx find.

Horseradish is so yummy! Only use a little bit though, it's some strong stuff!

I wore this shirt with my new shorts.

I met up with my best friend, Pilar, for coffee.

I usually don’t drink cold things, but today I was so glad they had iced cinnamon dolce latte… with soy! She ordered an iced chai latte. We walked to the library with a mission. I had to find Roald Dahl’s Matilda. I also picked up Haruki Murakami’s What I Talk About when I Talk About Running.

I figure it's time to read the book one of my favorite movies is based on!

Matilda is one of my all time favorite movies. I’m not sure how many times I’ve watched it, but it never gets old! As a matter of fact, one of my projects in my first year of college was to recreate a movie. I suggested this movie to my group and everyone was okay with it. On top of that, they said I should be Matilda! Here’s the trailer I made for the project. I’m wasn’t too happy with the final outcome, but I had fun making it. And yes, my doggy is named after her!

Today when my mom came home she announced something that surprised me, and I still can’t believe it. Michael Jackson died earlier today. I know a lot of people are quick to judge him, that’s a part of human nature, but I try not to do that (with anybody). I can’t imagine the life he had and how I would’ve led mine if I were in his situation. I’d imagine I’d be very confused, but proud at the same time. Unfortunately, we lost a legend, but he had such an impact to the world of music and so many other things as well.

Let's end on a sweet note shall we?

Jenny inspired to come up with a concoction to go along with these yummy So-Delicious sandwiches. I found the neapolitan flavor the other day, and without question, I put it in my basket! This reminded me of a fresh banana split, but where’s the whipped cream? That would’ve been perfect.

Enter Iowa Girl Eat’s PURE bar giveaway!

Guess what tomorrow is?

Katharina's Food Adventures

Tag Archives: tomatoes

My Thing Right Now Is Chewing

Insights Can Come In Small Ways

Gifts From The Garden

I am Worth It

Happiness Often Sneaks in Through a Door You Didn’t Know You Left Open

Another First

Plates Full of Color