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Holiday Sangria Gift Basket and Recipe

Holiday Sangria Gift Basket and Recipe

’tis the season for gift giving, parties with friends and some good laughs over a bottle of wine. I am sharing a Holiday Sangria Gift Basket and Recipe to bring a little extra joy to your holiday season! If you need a gift to bring a hostess, something creative for a gift exchange or just a great recipe to entertain friends, I have you covered!

The season is full of gatherings with family, dinner parties and work functions. A bottle of  Chardonnay is the perfect to bring or amp it up with an entire Holiday Sangria Gift Basket.

Holiday Sangria Gift Basket

Creating a beautiful Holiday Sangria Gift Basket is a breeze! Include as many as the items from the list below within the basket so it can be used same day.

Holiday Sangria Gift Basket Checklist:

  • Basket
  • Mixing spoon
  • Small rosemary plant (I placed mine in a stemless wine glass)
  • Hand towel
  • Pitcher (optional)
  • Fruits- apple, orange, pear, cranberries
  • Small container with sugar
  • Small container with vodka or a mini bottle
  • 12 ounce ginger ale
  • 8 ounce bottle apple juice
  • Recipe card
  • Wine glasses (optional)
  • Bottle of chardonnay

Print the recipe card below to add to your Holiday Sangria Gift Basket!

Holiday Sangria Recipe

This Holiday Sangria Recipe is made with freshly diced pears and apples, sliced oranges, cranberries, juice, ginger ale and a chardonnay. Add in some vodka for extra kick and fragrant rosemary to complete the drink. This Holiday Sangria really simple to throw together for entertaining for to enjoy with a friend on the weekend.

Tip

Make sure every glass served has some of the fresh fruit from the pitcher. The fruit soaks up a lot of the alcohol and tastes great!

Holiday sangria, christmas cocktail, christmas drinks, chardonnay, how to make a sangria, gift basket idea, wine lovers gift basket, what to bring a hostess for party
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Holiday Sangria

This Holiday Sangria Recipe is made with freshly diced pears and apples, sliced oranges, cranberries, juice, ginger ale and a chardonnay. Add in some vodka for extra kick and fragrant rosemary to complete the drink.
Course Drinks
Author Amber

Ingredients

  • 1 pear, diced
  • 1 apple, diced
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • 8 ounces apple juice
  • 12 ounces ginger ale
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup vodka
  • 1 bottle chardonnay
  • rosemary

Instructions

  • Dice the pear and apple. Slice the orange. Add to pitcher along with the fresh cranberries.
  • Pour in the ginger ale, apple juice and vodka.
  • Add sugar. Stir.
  • Add a bottle of Chardonnay and a sprig of rosemary. Let sit in fridge for one hour.
  • Serve over ice.

What are your plans for enjoying this holiday season with friends? Let me know in the comments below.

Yogurt Parfait with Strawberry Compote

Yogurt Parfait with Strawberry Compote

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #TeaProudly #TeaProbiotics #CollectiveBias

Yogurt Parfait with Strawberry Compote is made with plain yogurt, granola and a fresh strawberry sauce paired with a warm cup of New Bigelow Tea with Probiotics for a perfect start to any morning.

For the past 6 months, I have been really focused on living a healthier lifestyle by being more cautious of the foods I am consuming, cutting back on unhealthy habits like drinking alcohol, being physically active in everyday life and getting a daily workout in. I plan on maintaining my healthier lifestyle going into the fall season and beginning each morning with Bigelow teas are helping me do so.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, starts from the moment you wake up. Get in the right mindset! Stay positive and take a moment to yourself to meditate, stretch, pet your dog or whatever relaxes your mind before beginning the day.

After taking a moment of relaxation, make sure to eat a balanced breakfast. By having the first meal of the day be something that makes you feel good, you can easily continue your day eating healthy and staying in the right mind frame to create a better version of yourself.

What my breakfast looks like: 

  • Yogurt Parfait with Strawberry Compote made with yogurt, a high protein granola and fresh strawberries.
  • A probiotics tea from the Bigelow family with a pinch of honey.

Interested in trying out the NEW Bigelow Tea with Probiotics offerings? Hover over the photo above to click through to Walmart.com and buy it!

Why drink Bigelow Tea with Probiotics as part of a balanced breakfast? 

Bigelow is my #1 choice when it comes to tea! I tea proudly with Bigelow because it is the only choice for me. Bigelow teas are manufactured in the US with individually wrapped foil pouches to deliver freshness. You can taste the quality and all-natural ingredients with every sip. The Bigelow family delivers an uncompromised tea experience with their tea blends. From the beautiful aroma to amazing taste to the warm feeling you get all over your body while drinking- there is nothing like enjoying a cup of Bigelow in the morning.

Speaking of quality ingredients, the innovative combination of Ganeden-BC30 helps maintain a healthy balance in the digestive tract when used as part of a healthy diet. Healthy digestion begins with these three probiotic flavors:

Walmart is where I head to pick up my Bigelow Tea with Probiotics. You can find them on the coffee aisle!

Click HERE for more information and to purchase.

Follow Bigelow Tea on Social Media

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Yogurt Parfait with Strawberry Compote

I love starting my morning off with yogurt to pair with my Bigelow Tea with Probiotics! This Yogurt Parfait with Strawberry Compote hits the spots and keeps me motivated to eat healthier all day long. Plus, the strawberry compote is just plain delicious!

Never made a compote?

This strawberry compote is so simple to make. Make a batch on Sunday night to prepare for a week of delicious Yogurt Parfaits with Strawberry Compote to enjoy every morning with your Bigelow Tea.

Begin by washing, hulling and slicing fresh strawberries. Add the strawberries to a saucepan on the stove top, along with honey and lemon juice and bring to a low simmer. Simmer the strawberries for 12 minutes. I like to mash half the strawberries as they simmer to pull out all that amazing juice from the fruit. After the strawberries have simmered for 12 minutes, remove from heat and let cool. Once cool, place in refrigerator and enjoy as you please. This strawberry compote also tastes amazing on top of waffles, cheesecake or even as an addition to cold beverages like lemonade.

Yogurt Parfait with Strawberry Compote

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Yogurt Parfait with Strawberry Compote, #ad, #TeaProudly, #BigelowTea, #TeaProbiotics, strawberry compote, fresh strawberry sauce, healthy morning, balanced diet, Bigelow Tea with Probiotics, tea for healthy digestion

Yogurt Parfait with Strawberry Compote is made with plain yogurt, granola and a fresh strawberry sauce paired with a warm cup of New Bigelow Tea with Probiotics for a perfect start to any morning. 

  • Strawberry Compote (will produce approximately 6 servings)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 quart fresh strawberries
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Yogurt Parfait with Strawberry Compote
  • 6 ounces yogurt, plain
  • 2 tablespoons granola
  • 3 tablespoons strawberry compote
  • Garnish
  • mint sprig
  • strawberry, sliced
  1. Make the strawberry compote ahead of time. Start by washing, hulling and and slicing the fresh strawberries.
  2. Place strawberries into a medium saucepan with honey and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer for 12 minutes. As the strawberries simmer, muddle half of them well by squishing with the back of a spoon or using a potato masher.
  3. Let the strawberry compote cool and place into a jar to store in fridge for one week.
  4. Once the strawberry compote has cooled off, you can make the parfait.
  5. Add 3 tablespoon of strawberry compote to bottom of bowl.
  6. Layer yogurt on top, followed by a couple tablespoons of granola.
  7. Garnish with a sliced strawberry and mint (optional).

Find Bigelow Tea at a Walmart near you and comment below with some of your best morning tips that keep you on track to a healthy lifestyle.

Summer Iced Tea Punch

Summer Iced Tea Punch

This post is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group® and Milo’s Tea Company, but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #MakeItWithMilos  http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV

Summer Iced Tea Punch is made with pineapple juice, ginger ale, Milos Tea and fresh fruit for a deliciously refreshing beverage for these hot days ahead.

I am beyond excited for summer and spending time with my family. We hang out by the pool frequently, ride bikes around the neighborhood or even visit an amusement park to ride some roller coasters often. However, the highlights of summer is always the grill outs with  neighbors to eat some great food, share some s’mores over the fire and cooling off with some ice cold drinks.

I am sure your summer is also packed full of outdoor fun! If you are planning festivities for Memorial day, 4th of July, neighborhood block parties, or just grilling out with friends and family, this Summer Iced Tea Punch is an awesome beverage to bring to the party that will please everyone.

Milos Tea is THE go-to beverage for summer parties and gatherings. Milos Tea is fresh brewed with natural ingredients without any added preservatives and you will taste the difference with this award winning tea. Try a glass of Milos Tea on ice with a lemon slice or create a punch for a crowd with the Summer Iced Tea Punch!

What’s the story behind Milos Tea?

Milo’s was founded as a restaurant in 1946 by Milo and Bea Carlton after Milo returned from serving his country in World War II. Being a military family ourselves, we always stand behind those who serve so hearing Milo served our country makes this company extra special. In 1989, Milo’s began selling their fresh brewed Famous Sweet Tea to local Birmingham grocery stores. Today, Milos Tea Company is a third generation family owned business and Milo’s beverages can be found in thousands of retailers across the United States.

I found Milo’s at my local Meijer in the refrigerated juice section but they are available in lots of retailers. Find a store near you by using the store locator. 

Summer Iced Tea Punch

Let’s mix up some Summer Iced Tea Punch! All you need is ginger ale, fresh or frozen fruits, pineapple juice and Milos Tea. I picked Milos Famous Sweet Tea but you can reach for the Milos Famous No Calorie Sweet Tea or the Milos Famous Unsweet Tea and the punch will be equally refreshing and just as tasty.

Prepare your fruits. I sliced a couple kiwis, diced some pineapple chunks, sliced strawberries and picked up fresh raspberries and blackberries. You can use ANY fruit you like! You just want strawberries and pineapple? Go for it! Once the fruit is sliced and diced, pour the ginger ale, pineapple juice and Milos Tea into a pitcher, followed by the fruits and top with ice to stay cold.

Summer Iced Tea Punch

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#ad, Summer Iced Tea Punch, punch for a crowd, #MakeitwithMilos, @drinkmilos, #Pmedia

Summer Iced Tea Punch is made with pineapple juice, ginger ale, Milos Tea and fresh fruit for a deliciously refreshing beverage for these hot days ahead. 

  • 3 cups Milos Tea
  • 3 cups ginger ale
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen fruit (use a mix of your favorites such as kiwi, pineapple, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries)
  • ice
  1. In a large pitcher, add 3 cups of Milos Tea, 3 cups ginger ale and 1 cup pineapple juice. Stir ingredients together.
  2. Prepare your fruits by cutting pineapple into chunks, slicing strawberries and slicing kiwis.
  3. Toss 2 cups worth of fruit into the pitcher.
  4. Fill pitcher with ice.
  5. Serve.
  6. Garnish each glass with an umbrella for extra fun!

How do you celebrate summer? Are you obsessed with the 4th of July or have cook outs with friends every weekend? Let me know in the comments below about your summer plans and how you drink your Milos Tea!

This post is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group® and Milo’s Tea Company, but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #MakeItWithMilos  http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV

Chocolate Hummus Platter

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Boar’s Head for IZEA. All opinions are 100% mine.

Chocolate Hummus Platter with pretzels, tomatoes, grapes, pistachios, strawberries, blueberries, dried bananas, pomegranate, smoked gouda cheese and a  Boar’s Head Dark Chocolate Hummus for a beautiful snack or appetizer solution while hosting.

This time of year I do a lot of hosting at the house from Sunday football with friends to big holiday events like Christmas dinner with the family. A hummus platter is a really great way to feed the masses a healthy, delicious, filling snack that is zero guilt but still full on indulgence. Plus, the platter is quite stunning with all the different textures and colors throughout.

The Boar’s Head Dark Chocolate Hummus Platter really pulls people in and is an instant invitation to eat and be merry. Place it in the room where you want people gathering and watch everyone flock to this platter as they “ooh” and “aah”. I promise every single person will ask about this Boar’s Head Dark Chocolate Hummus because it is incredible so be prepared with answers.

Boar’s Head’s has a line of nine premium hummus flavors that are available year-round, however, the dark chocolate hummus is for a limited time available October 2017 through February 2018. They could run out earlier so grab it early! Boar’s Head Dark Chocolate Hummus is made with high-quality ingredients – steamed chickpeas are blended with cocoa powder, organic sugar, and real vanilla to produce an extraordinary tasting, healthier indulgence crafted with all Non-GMO Project verified ingredients.

Want more information on Boar’s Head Dark Chocolate Hummus?

Click HERE !

Boar’s Head wants to see your own creations with Boar’s Head Dark Chocolate Hummus! Snap a photo, share your story on Instagram and Facebook tagging @boarshead_official and the brand may even repost a share!

Have questions or need help locating the Boar’s Head Dark Chocolate Hummus? Contact the wonderful people over at Boar’s Head Customer Service and they will happily assist you. They are available M-F, 8a- 5p EST, at (800) 352-6277.

Chocolate Hummus Platter

Let’s start putting together our Chocolate Hummus Platter!

Wash all your fruits well before beginning and find a platter to use. I like to utilize serving trays for my platters because it holds everything in, looks fantastic and you can move it from room to room easily. Wash the serving tray and line with parchment paper.

Creating a Chocolate Hummus Platter is really simple. Place the Boar’s Head Dark Chocolate Hum-mus and Boar’s Head Smoked Gouda Cheese towards the center and then grab the other larger ingredients to place around those. Think about how colors are distributed. You don’t want one side heavy on a single color or texture. For example, don’t place the strawberries next to tomatoes alongside the pomegranate because the balance will be off. Distribute all those reds throughout different sections for a more visually appealing platter.

Once the largest ingredients are placed, dice the Boar’s Head Smoked Gouda Cheese and fill in the open spaces with the remaining fruits.

The last items to place are the pistachios and sage. I added sage to complete the look of the Chocolate Hummus Platter and it gives off a nice aroma.

Don’t be afraid to make some swaps that work for you! Crackers, pita chips, oranges, kiwi, rosemary, almonds, raspberries would all be great options for your Chocolate Hummus Platter. Even try some crispy bacon!

Chocolate Hummus Platter

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Chocolate Hummus Platter, #ad, Boar's Head Dark Chocolate Hummus, #AllFlavorNoGuilt, #ChocolateHummus, hosting

Chocolate Hummus Platter with pretzels, tomatoes, grapes, pistachios, strawberries, blueberries, dried bananas, pomegranate, smoked gouda cheese and a Boar’s Head Dark Chocolate Hummus centerpiece.

  • 8 ounces Boar’s Head Smoked Gouda Cheese
  • 8 ounce container Boar’s Head Dark Chocolate Hummus
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes
  • 1 pomegranate
  • 1 cup dried banana chips
  • 1.5 cups pretzels
  • .5 cup pistachios
  • 3/4 quart strawberries
  • 1 pint blueberries
  • 2 bunches grapes of choice
  • 3 sprigs basil
  1. Wash all fruits well.
  2. Clean the platter or serving tray being used and line with parchment paper at the bottom.
  3. Place the Boar’s Head Smoked Gouda Cheese and Boar’s Head Dark Chocolate Hummus onto the center of the platter.
  4. Arrange the grapes, pretzels and dried banana chips in each corner.
  5. Dice the Boar’s Head Smoked Gouda Cheese and place back onto platter.
  6. Arrange the cherry tomatoes, blueberries, and strawberries on the platter in open spots.
  7. Cut the pomegranate in quarters and place 2 on the platter. Remove the arils (seeds) from the other 2 quarts and you can place them into a small bowl to the side.
  8. Fill in any open spots with the pistachios and decorate with a few sprigs of sage.

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Triple Berry Yogurt Bark

Triple Berry Yogurt Bark

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #HorizonLunch #CollectiveBias

The new school year is beginning and we are getting back in the swing of things. To make mornings a little easier, I made this delicious Triple Berry Yogurt Bark made from Horizon® Organic Yogurt, organic granola, and fresh berries.

Horizon Organic Yogurt can be found in the dairy aisle at your local Walmart within the yogurt section. Every creamy spoonful of Horizon Organic Yogurt offers live and active cultures. With 5 amazing flavors available, the uses are endless. Try them in your cereal, smoothies, place in lunchbox, serve as a yummy after school snack, or use in your favorite recipes like our Triple Berry Yogurt Bark. I strive to lead and teach my children a healthier lifestyle and this recipe helps me put us in the right direction.

The 5 amazing flavors:

  • Key Lime Yogurt Cup
  • Vanilla Yogurt Cup
  • Strawberry Yogurt Cup
  • Blueberry Yogurt Cup
  • Raspberry Yogurt Cup

For todays recipe, we are using the Vanilla, Strawberry, Blueberry and Raspberry Yogurt Cups. Although, any combination of your favorite flavors will work beautifully!

Find out more about Horizon Organic Yogurts and get more recipe ideas by clicking HERE. 

Follow Horizon Organics

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Did I mention Triple Berry Yogurt Bark is so easy to make that even your kids can whip it up? My nine year old son helped today in the kitchen for this delicious breakfast. I am a big believer that everyone should have some skill in the kitchen and getting your children to help with simple recipes like this is the perfect start to teaching them basic cooking skills.

Place parchment over a cookie sheet and spread your Horizon Organic Yogurt over top. We wanted to mix things up a bit today so we used all our favorite flavors. Cover your baking sheet with dollops of  yogurt. Grab a spatula and evenly spread the yogurt into a rectangular shape.

Next, wash your fresh, organic berries. This family loves strawberries, raspberries and blueberries so why pick just one? Spread out a cup of your fresh fruit over the Horizon Organic Yogurt, followed by some granola. Freeze for 3 hours, cut and serve.

TIP Wash berries in large bowl with a vinegar-water bath: 1 cup white vinegar to 8 cups water to kill spores #ad #HorizonLunch Click To Tweet

If you have younger children, I recommend cutting your bark into small, bite size pieces because this can get messy of it starts to melt in their little hands.

Not only does Triple Berry Yogurt Bark make a great breakfast, it also provides the perfect after school snack. Here in the Cincinnati area, school starts really early in the season. Many schools are back in session beginning of August with no air conditioning provided in the buildings. My son comes home from school drenched in sweat. To cool off, some Triple Berry Yogurt Bark is cold and fruity. Just the type of snack he needs before he sits down to do homework.

Feel free to switch things up a bit and customize to your families likings. Vanilla and Strawberry flavored Horizon Organic Yogurt with sliced strawberries or maybe a Key Lime Horizon Organic Yogurt with fresh kiwi and orange slices. You may also add a bit of honey to mix into yogurt before spreading onto the baking sheet. Delish!

Triple Berry Yogurt Bark

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#ad, #HorizonLunch, #CollectiveBias, frozen yogurt, yogurt bark, fruit, snack, kid friendly recipe, breakfast
  • 6 ounce container Horizon Organic Vanilla Yogurt
  • 6 ounce container Horizon Organic Rasbpberry Yogurt
  • 6 ounce container Horizon Organic Blueberry Yogurt
  • 6 ounce container Horizon Organic Strawberry Yogurt
  • .5 cup organic granola
  • 1 cup fresh organic berries (equal parts blueberries, raspberries and sliced strawberries)
  1. Grab ingredients, spatula, measuring cup, cookie sheet and parchment paper.
  2. Wash berries well.
  3. Spread out your yogurt onto the parchment paper covered cookie sheet. You can use dollops like we did or section the flavors however you please.
  4. Use your spatula to spread the yogurt evenly.
  5. Spread out a cup worth of fresh berries over top.
  6. Spread out your granola on top.
  7. Place in freezer for 3 hours minimum.
  8. Cut.
  9. Serve.

Locate a Walmart near you to pick up Horizon Organic Yogurts.

Click HERE.

20 Summer Drinks for 21+

20 Summer Drinks for 21+

We have another round up today for 20 Summer Drinks for 21+. A list of 20 ahhh-mazing summer drinks that were created for hot summer days! There is a mix of everything from whiskey, vodka, to sangria and tequilas.

I just have one question. Which one will you pick to sip by the pool first?

 

Peach Whiskey Iced Tea from Serena Bakes made with fresh peaches that is perfect for days lounging by the pool.

summer drinks

[Click HERE for recipe]

 

Vodka Mint Lemonade Cocktail from Honey & Lime made with Stoli vodka and fresh berries.

summer drinks

[Click HERE for recipe]

 

Passionberry Kombucha Martinis from Stacey Homemaker. Kombucha is something I have never had before but apparently tastes like a bubbly sweet tea. Yum!

summer drinks

[Click HERE for recipe]

 

Tropical Moscato Sangria from Living Sweet Moments with dragon fruit, kiwi and blackberries.

summer drinks

[Click HERE for recipe]

 

Best Ever 2 Ingredient Watermelon Vodka Slushie from my friend over at Easy Cooking with Molly. You guessed it- watermelon and vodka!

summer drinks

[Click HERE for recipe]

 

The Crazy Good and Easy Sangria Recipe that you will want to make all summer long from Eze Breezy.

summer drink

 

[Click HERE for recipe]

 

Fresh Blackberry Mango Mojito from Diary of a Debutante . Mojitos and summer are just the perfect pair.

summer drinks

[Click HERE for recipe]

 

Skinny Wine Spritzer from Hungry Hobby with wine soaked fruits.

summer drinks

[Click HERE for recipe]

 

 

More Great Summer Drink Recipes

 

Rhubarb Mojito from Living Sweet Moments.

Strawberry Grapefruit Whiskey Iced Tea from Serena Bakes.

Hibiscus Sangria from Immaculate Ruemu.

High Tide Cocktail from Ann’s Entitled Life.

Mango Jalapeno Margarita from Easy Cooking with Molly.

Pineapple Upside Cake Mixed Drink from The Neighborhood Moms.

Rose French 75 from Nomageddon.

Strawberry Thyme Margaritas from My Wife Can Cook.

Mezcal Margarita from Emma Eats and Explores.

Homemade Fruity Red Wine Sangria from Happy Foods.

Strawberry Lime Vodka Tonic from here at Simply Made Recipes.

 

summer drinks

Red, White and Blueberry Cupcakes

Red, White and Blueberry Cupcakes

Red, White and Blueberry Cupcakes with red velvet cake, cream cheese frosting, fresh blueberry garnish and a cream cheese with blueberry surprise center. I love when I have an idea in my head and it all just comes together beautifully. I wanted to create a red, white and blue dessert that didn’t scream July 4th with flags sticking out or anything over the top.  This dessert will work anytime of year but extra special for holidays like Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Veteran’s Day and more. It will add a little more sophistication to a neighborhood grill out or celebration without spending hours in the kitchen.

Red, White and Blueberry CupcakesRed velvet cake and no extra work? Wait, what? If you have made a red velvet cake or two in your life, then you understand how it takes a little extra time and effort to make a red velvet cake. I actually made this recipe twice. The first time I made a red velvet cake from scratch. The cupcakes turned out amazing but this is Simply Made Recipes, not I Love Being in the Kitchen for 10 Hours Baking All Day. With that said, these cupcakes are from a box mix with a few extra ingredients added.

Red, White and Blueberry CupcakesI had these Red, White and Blueberry Cupcakes completed start to last blueberry garnish in about an hour. Boo-yah! I whipped up a really simple cream cheese and blueberry filling for the center of the cupcakes that is optional. The filling adds a little extra flavor and fun little surprise! However, these cupcakes would be absolutely perfect without. So, if you are iffy about the filling, leave it out. No problem.

Red, White and Blueberry Cupcakes I went back and forth trying to decide of I wanted to make a fresh blueberry compote for the filling or make it creamy. I went with the cheesecake type flavor and texture because it is delicious! Duh. Also, much quicker and easier. In the photo above, you can see how I placed a little bit of red velvet batter on the bottom of the muffin pans and then just a glob of cream cheese filling on top. Yes, a glob is a very technical term. The cream cheese will weigh itself down a bit and the cake mix will expand and cook over the top of the cream cheese mix so you don’t need to be all crazy trying to get the batter perfect. I say that from experience. Red, White and Blueberry CupcakesLet’s talk about how to make an incredible red velvet cake mix from a box. Here are my big tips to make it perfect:

  1. Swap oil for butter.
  2. Add an extra egg.
  3. Use buttermilk instead of just water.
  4. Add a packet of instant pudding. I used the red velvet pudding mix but chocolate would also work great.
  5. Add a pinch of white vinegar.

Red, White and Blueberry CupcakesI had to make a cream cheese frosting to pair with the red velvet because the two are just meant for each other. Cream cheese frosting is probably the easiest frosting to make. Take 8 ounces of cream cheese and a stick of butter. Blend the two with a hand mixer until nice and creamy. Then add in your confectioners sugar and vanilla extract and blend until it has a nice thick consistency. Add in a cup at a time of the confectioners sugar until the frosting is just right. You know it is done when you can take a spoonful and tip it upside down without it budging. You want it to be thick and stand up.

Red, White and Blueberry CupcakesAny tip can be used for decorating. With cupcakes, I prefer the large or extra large frosting tips because they make the cupcakes look really pretty and full. Add a few fresh blueberries on top to finish of the look.

Red, White and Blueberry Cupcakes

Red, White and Blueberry Cupcakes

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Red, White and Blueberry Cupcakes
  • Red Velvet Cupcakes
  • 1 box red velvet cake mix (I used Duncan Hines today)
  • 4 eggs
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 packet instant pudding (red velvet or chocolate)
  • 1 cup buttermilk (4 tablespoons buttermilk powder in 1 cup water)
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • Blueberry Cream Cheese Filling
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 3 tablespoons blueberry preserve
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 4 cups confectioners sugar
  • .5 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 8 ounces cream cheese
  • 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • fresh blueberries to garnish
  1. Pre heat oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Rinse the blueberries.
  3. Grab 3 mixing bowls.
  4. Mixing bowl #1: Prepare your cake batter. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend 1 box red velvet cake mix, 4 eggs, 5 tablespoons butter, 1 packet instant pudding), 1 cup buttermilk, and 1 teaspoon white vinegar. The batter will be somewhat thick.
  5. Mixing bowl #2: Prepare the blueberry cream cheese filling. Use your hand mixer to blend the 8 ounces cream cheese, 3 tablespoons blueberry preserve and 3 tablespoons sugar until creamy.
  6. Prepare your muffin trays with cupcake liners. I used white and a red and white polka dot pattern. Pick something festive or simple.
  7. Fill each cupcake liner half way with red velvet batter.
  8. Use a spoon to put a dab of cream cheese filling on top and centered.
  9. Bake 17-19 minutes.
  10. Place on baking rack to cool. ( you may also place in fridge if you want the cream cheese layer set up)
  11. Mixing bowl #3: Prepare the cream cheese frosting. Use the hand mixer to blend 8 ounces of cream cheese and .5 cup butter until creamy. Add vanilla extract and 1 cup at a time of confectioners sugar. Blend and add the confectioners sugar slowly until at a nice, creamy, thick consistency.
  12. Frost each cupcake.
  13. Garnish with fresh blueberries.
  14. Serve.

Red, White and Blueberry Cupcakes

Fruit Salad with Lemon Maple Dressing

Fruit Salad with Lemon Maple Dressing

Fruit Salad with Lemon Maple Dressing has fresh strawberries, blueberries, watermelon and honeydew melon star cut outs with a simple maple syrup and lemon juice dressing. The star cut outs make this healthy side dish fun and patriotic that is perfect for holiday BBQ’s.

Fruit Salad with Lemon Maple DressingI enjoy making side dishes for family get togethers or neighborhood parties. I prefer to keep it simple when feeding a lot of people so everyone can dig in and enjoy. Fancy or complicated dishes can be confusing to some people and sometimes kids are weird about trying anything unfamiliar. Fruit Salad with Lemon Maple Dressing is one of those side dishes that will please everyone and does not take a lot of your time to put together.

Fruit Salad with Lemon Maple DressingThe fun part of this dish is the star shaped fruit. I bought a pack of star cookie cutters in multiple sizes and sliced the melons in about 1 inch sections. Then, used the different sized stars to make the cut outs. Really simple but adds a lot to the dish. Kids always think it is fun and want to eat all the stars. You will have some scraps left over from the melons. I just cut those into little bite size pieces and toss into a separate bowl for snacking.

Fruit Salad with Lemon Maple DressingWith my Fruit Salad with Lemon Maple Dressing in hand, I am ready for all the summer grill outs we will be attending or hosting. So fresh, easy, healthy and a complete crowd pleasure that happens to also be budget friendly and shows a little creativity.

Fruit Salad with Lemon Maple Dressing

 

Fruit Salad with Lemon Maple Dressing

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Fruit Salad with Lemon Maple Dressing
  • 1 pint strawberries
  • 1 quart blueberries
  • .5 seedless watermelon
  • .5 honeydew melon
  • 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  1. Wash your berries well and dry.
  2. Cut strawberries in half and toss in a large bowl.
  3. Toss blueberries in bowl.
  4. Slice half a watermelon and half the honeydew melon into 1 inch pieces. Take your star cookie cutters and press into melon creating your stars. Toss stars into bowl.
  5. Mix 1/4 cup maple syrup and squeeze 1 fresh lime into a small maple. Mix well and pour over top of fruit.
  6. Mix all ingredients together.
  7. Serve.

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Fruit Salad with Lemon Maple Dressing

Grilled Honey Chicken with Strawberry Salsa

Grilled Honey Chicken with Strawberry Salsa

Grilled Honey Chicken with Strawberry Salsa is sweet with a spicy kick. I am really excited to share this recipe with everyone. The dish is bursting with amazing flavors! Plus, it is grilling season so bring on the outdoor recipes, right?

Grilled Honey Chicken with Strawberry Salsa

Strawberry Salsa is easy to make and utilizes all fresh ingredients. You can’t beat completely fresh. This recipe is very similar to pineapple salsa from Pork Tacos with Pineapple Salsa. The strawberries give a nice tart flavor that pairs well with the spicy jalapeno and onion. I make my strawberry salsa spicy but if you don’t enjoy spice that much and want it more mild, simply remove the seeds from the jalapeno before chopping up the salsa ingredients.

Grilled Honey Chicken with Strawberry Salsa

I just realized that my past few recipes have involved honey. We eat a whole lot of honey in this house and it is one of my favorite ingredients for cooking. Depending on what type of honey you buy, it can various flavor profiles from fruity to nutty. I tend to go with the honey that is on the sweeter side to act as a sweetener in recipes. Plus, the consistency sticks really well to everything. Especially love honey for meat marinades. Try the Sweet ‘N’ Spicy Baked Salmon or the Spicy Honey Grilled Chicken Recipe for more recipes using honey that are both great summer recipes.

Grilled Honey Chicken with Strawberry Salsa

How to grill chicken. Grilling chicken can be a disaster but it doesn’t have to be.  You want to cook on a medium to high heat. The preparation of the chicken and shape is important. Yes, your chicken’s shape is important today. I buy the thinly cut chicken breasts when grilling. You can also choose to use a meat pounder to get the chicken at a consistent thickness. This allows for more even cooking and you aren’t waiting for the thickest portion to cook while the rest dries out. Cook each side for about 7 minutes or until the internal temperature is at 165 degrees.

I love getting those slightly charred bites in mixture of the sweet strawberries and spicy jalapenos this Grilled Honey Chicken with Strawberry Salsa recipe. Such an awesome combination.

Grilled Honey Chicken with Strawberry Salsa

Grilled Honey Chicken with Strawberry Salsa

Print
Grilled Honey Chicken with Strawberry Salsa
  • Honey Chicken
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 pounds chicken breasts (thin cut or pounded)
  • .5 cup honey
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce, low sodium
  • .5 lime
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • pinch of pepper
  • Strawberry Salsa
  • .5 green bell pepper
  • 1 jalapeno
  • 1/4 white onion
  • 1 lime
  • 1 pint strawberries
  • .5 cup cilantro
  1. Pound the chicken breasts if you need to even out the thickness.
  2. Marinate the chicken. In a large Ziploc bag, add honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, freshly squeezed lime, olive oil and a pinch of pepper. Mix and add the chicken.
  3. Place chicken in fridge to marinate 20 minutes to 2 hours.
  4. Pre heat your grill to a medium high heat.
  5. Prep your strawberry salsa. Finely dice half a green bell pepper, 1/4 of a white onion and 1 jalapeno. Toss into a small mixing bowl.
  6. Dice your strawberries and chop the cilantro. Add to the bowl.
  7. Squeeze 1 lime and give the strawberry salsa a mix.
  8. Cook chicken for 7 minutes on each side.
  9. Remove from grill and top with strawberry salsa.
  10. Enjoy!

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Grilled Honey Chicken with Strawberry Salsa

 

Peach Iced Tea

Peach Iced Tea

Peach Iced Tea with fresh, ripe peaches and delicious tea with sugar to sweeten up your day. So simple to make and so refreshing with these warmer days ahead!

Peach Iced Tea

Come May, peaches will be in season and I will be making peach everything! One of my favorite recipes for fresh peaches is this Peach Iced Tea. Since moving to Cincinnati, I have become a big fan of sweet tea. Although, I still think people out this way like their tea a bit too sweet. I typically will order half sweet/half unsweetened in restaurants. You can adjust the sugar level a little bit on this recipe. 1 cup is my max sugar level I would ever go for this and it is sweet for sure. If you do not like sweet tea, cut back to maybe 1/4 cup sugar and let the peaches do the sweetening.

Peach Iced Tea

What type of tea should you use? I think anything will work. I wouldn’t go for anything fancy. I buy the tea bags labeled for iced tea use and they work perfectly. All the wonderful flavors come from the peach reduction and is just so delicious. I don’t think you could ruin it from the “wrong” tea.

Peach Iced Tea

For your peach reduction, you will be simmering 3 sliced peaches with some sugar and water for 30 minutes. Give the peaches a good stir and squish down the fruit every once in awhile. Send the mixture through a strainer to remove all the chunks and skin and you are done. I let the tea and peach reduction cool down before adding to the pitcher. Pour over ice and serve.

This Peach Ice Tea recipe is really fantastic to serve for guests. Everyone will be saying how great this fresh tea is…. you don’t have to tell them how incredibly easy it was.

Peach Iced Tea

Peach Iced Tea

Print
Peach Iced Tea
  • 3 peaches
  • 3 tea bags
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 8 cups water
  1. Slice 3 fresh peaches.
  2. On the stove top on medium/low heat, add your sliced peaches, 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water.
  3. Let peaches simmer for 30 minutes. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to squish down the peaches to get the most juices from them. Mix often.
  4. Use a sauce to strainer and pour the peach reduction through into a large pitcher.
  5. As the peaches are cooking down, make your tea. Place 3 tea bags into a pot with 7 cups of water. Bring to boil and let seep for 10 minutes.
  6. Add tea to pitcher.
  7. Pour peach tea over ice.
  8. You can add extra sliced peaches into the tea if you wish.

Peach Iced Tea

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