In the Kitchen

The iphone 6 may have changed the way I blog. I was hesitant to get it since I do battle with the phone in general, but the Mr insisted that I would love it for the camera alone. He was right. Granted they will never surpass our pro cameras, but the ease will most definitely help me keep on top of posting. So here is my life in the kitchen as of late through the lens of my iphone...

I have made this fruit crisp three times in the last two weeks. I am obsessed. The recipe is from the book Bread & Wine. It's gluten free and fairly healthy. I eat it as a breakfast and a dessert when topped with my version of ice cream.

recipe: {from Bread & Wine with my additions}

4 cups of fruit, any will do really, but here I am using a frozen mix of blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries.

crisp topping:

1 cup of old-fashioned oats {I used gluten free}

1/2 cup raw, unsalted pecans, halved or chopped {I take mine for a fine chopping in the vitamix, which we bought at a fraction refurbished}

1/2 cup almond meal {this is my favorite to bake with}

1/4 cup maple syrup

1/4 cup olive oil

1/2 tsp salt {I used kosher, and eyeballed a little less than recommended}

Mix together crisp ingredients. Pour berries in 8x8 pan and layer the crisp topping over it. Bake at 350 35 to 40 minutes, or up to 10 min more if it's frozen, until fruit is bubbling and topping is crisp and golden. {takes me 45 min}

 

This little space above the microwave makes me happy. It's also the view I see from the sofa in the tv room.

{little vase found locally from AT HOME, frame bought locally {similar}, black pot {old target, but I like this one too} , cow print, beads I made, tray}

Have you ever made your own pesto? I have not, but found it so easy! I adapted this recipe from Little Dixie Cook. I used what I had on hand since we were sick and was not fit to run to the store. I used arugula in place of the spinach and left out the cheese all together since dairy tends to make me feel bad at times. I used gluten free corn/rice noodles, but can see using it over out trout tonight for dinner. YUM. KJ was a fan too, but the Mr and Ellie would not touch it since it was green. Monkey see monkey do.

GIFT GUIDE {in the kitchen}

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There are those people that love to be in the kitchen. Whether it's trying new recipes or setting up for a gathering of friends it just seems like a place where they are most at home. For me I am not the best cook, but I enjoy trying something new and if I happen to get to use something pretty well then I may just be more prone to enjoying myself more. Sad, but oh so true.

{1} Cheese Knives: These I would keep out with fancy or not so fancy cheese on a pretty board for guests to serve themselves. Perfect for those who like to keep entertaining easy and casual. You could even pair it with a gift card to a local grocer.

{2} Cutting Board: Really can one have too many especially when they are as pretty as this one.

{3} monogrammed glass ware:  If I had a brother he would surely be getting these, but this gift would be great for both females and males a like.

{4} An Apron: An apron that is perfect for a dad, husband, brother, but also good for the ladies to "borrow". This one I wouldn't mind leaving out either.

{5} Pie Dish: I know any friend or family member would be giddy to receive a pie in a handmade dish to keep. Would also be a fun project for the kids to help out with.

{6}  sea salts: sea slats are my favorite and make for quite a thoughtful gift. They easily could fit in a stocking too.

{7} Ina: Easy enough for those just learning and always yummy enough for the seasoned cook.

{8} Danielle: A favorite of mine and perfect for those who have diet restrictions. This one happens to be perfect for the paleo diet, but the recipes are good enough that even the gluten lovers will like it.