Sparkling Ice Mint Mango Mock-tail

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Sparkling Ice Mock-tail Summer may be coming to a close but refreshing mock-tails will never end!! I am especially loving the Sparkling Ice Orange Mango sparkling water and enjoying it for a backyard brunch picnic. It can get pretty hot where we live, over 100 most August days and it’s always nice to find a refreshing drink we can enjoy before it’s too hot to be outside. I love enjoying a backyard brunch all year around but especially when the mornings are cooling down! Look below for the perfect mock-tail recipe to finish off your summer and head into fall! It’s great for brunch, lunch and anytime of day! I shopped for all of these ingredients at our local Save Mart. Cheers!

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Ingredients for 2 Orange Mango Mock-tails:

1 chilled Sparkling Ice Orange Mango

Sliced Mango

Fresh Mint

1 cup water

1 cup sugar + more for garnish

Ice

Directions:

1. Make simple syrup. Mix together water, sugar, 3 mint leaves in pot over fire. Continuously stir them together until sugar melts into water. Let cool and place in glass jar ready for use!

2. Fill bottom of glass with 3 mango slices and muddle with straw.

3. Add ice, 2 tbsp of simple syrup and fill rest of glass with Sparkling Ice Orange Mango.

4. Garnish with mint and a slice of mango.

5. Enjoy!

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Whole 30 Chicken Piccata

Chicken Piccata has always been a favorite dish around our house and once we started the “Whole 30” diet, I had to find a way to still enjoy it! To our pleasant surprise, now that I have changed the recipe, we like it so much that we will probably never go back to the old one! Finding new ways to enjoy our favorite dishes while still keeping them healthy is the best thing that has come from being on this new diet. Another great perk is how it takes me back to our time Italy when we enjoyed this on the cobblestone streets. Although we couldn’t go this year, we get to enjoy our stay cation with Mezzetta right at home! I hope you enjoy making and eating this dish just as much as we do!

Mezzetta is a California based company right here in the USA and I couldn’t be more excited to support them! Other delicious treats from Mezzetta we have been enjoying on our ‘whole 30’ diet are green olives on salads, jalapeno peppers on EVERYTHING, and peperoncini’s in our lettuce wraps!

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Ingredients:

2 lbs chicken cutlets

2 organic eggs

1 cup almond flour

1/4 cup olive oil + 2 tablespoon

4 minced garlic cloves

1 shallot

1-2 tablespoon arrowroot

1 cup chicken broth

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

1/4 cup Mezzetta capers (drained)

Salt & pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Rinse and pat dry chicken. Beat eggs in a bowl and put almond flour in a separate bowl. Put 1/4 cup olive oil in large pan on medium heat. Once olive oil is to medium temp (you can test by placing egg and making sure it doesn’t over cook) you can place each piece of chicken into egg mixture and then into almond mixture (making sure to coat well) then place into olive oil. Cook until golden brown on both sides.

2. Once all chicken is cooked place onto paper towel lined plate while making sauce. Clean out pan and return to stove top.

3. Begin making sauce by dicing shallot and mincing garlic. Add remains of olive oil to pan on medium heat. Add in shallot and garlic and cook until fragrant. Now add in arrowroot until well coated.

4. Add in chicken broth and lemon juice and let simmer. Once simmering to add a nice texture add in Mezzetta capers and salt and pepper until you like the taste!

5. You can now add chicken back in or you can plate it and pour sauce over, however you like to serve! I like to put mine over a bed of cauliflower rice and pour sauce on top!

6. ENJOY!!

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This is a paid sponsorship with Mezztta.

Enjoy the Comfort of Homemade Delicious Banana Bread

Few aromas are as welcoming as the scent of banana bread baking in the oven. That unmistakably sweet, cozy fragrance that fills the home in the morning is only the beginning of the experience of a slice of Simply Delicious Banana Bread. Whether you're looking for a way to use up those browning bananas on your counter or you're after a foolproof treat that's sure to please, this banana bread recipe is the answer. Let's explore what makes this treat so special, from the rich banana flavor to the nutty crunch, to the customizable mix-ins, and how this simple pleasure has become a staple in kitchens around the world.

With its moist crumb and rich banana taste, this classic dessert has stolen the hearts of many. It stands as a testament to the phrase "less is more," proving that deliciousness can also be simple. The sweetness of these bananas eliminates the need for excess sugar, while their soft texture contributes to the bread's irresistible moistness. The key ingredients in this easy-to-make treat are items you likely already have in your kitchen, like flour, sugar, and eggs. Combining these basics with ripe bananas results in a sweet delight that is as fun to make as it is to eat.

This is a great starter recipe for those new to baking and a quick, satisfying project for seasoned bakers. Add in your favorite nuts, chocolate chips, or a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to put your own twist on the classic recipe. Whether you're craving a quick breakfast, a midday snack, or a dessert, Simply Delicious Banana Bread fits the bill.

The Ideal Loaf Pan for Perfect Banana Bread

Choosing the right loaf pan is key to banana bread bliss. Here are some tips and essentials I am sure to use every time. A stainless steel loaf pan is your golden ticket to easily removing that golden loaf and achieving an even bake every time. Steer clear of dark or glass pans. These can unevenly distribute heat, potentially leading to an overcooked exterior and undercooked middle. Make sure to mind the depth. A pan that's too deep might leave you with an underbaked center amid dry edges. My favorite loaf pans to use for this recipe and all my bread recipes are the 360 Cookware loaf pans. They have three to choose from and my personal code AmandaWarren20 will give you 20% off your order. Shop Here No matter your choice in bakeware, the key is to ensure that your Simply Delicious Banana Bread turns out perfectly each time.

How to Ripen Bananas for Banana Bread

The ideal banana for this bread is ripe with plenty of brown spots. Think of those brown spots as nature's sweetener. But what if your bananas aren't quite there yet? There are tricks to accelerate ripening. If you're in a hurry to bake and your bananas are still too firm, you don't have to wait for days for them to ripen. A few ways I speed up the process are to place bananas in a warm area to help the ripening or store them with an already ripe banana or an apple in a paper bag to promote ripeness through natural gas release. For another express route to ripeness, pop unpeeled bananas into the oven. Ripening bananas properly ensures Simply Delicious Banana Bread will live up to its name with the perfect sweetness and texture.

Storing and Freezing Your Banana Bread

Once your banana bread has cooled and you've had your fill, storing it properly is important to maintain its taste and texture. Be sure to let it cool completely and use plastic wrap or foil to protect the bread's freshness. For enjoying within a few days, an airtight container will suffice. For longer storage, freeze slices or the entire loaf and thaw as needed.

Looking to freeze for later use? This is always a favorite of mine, so I have bread when unexpected company comes over or I want something tasty for breakfast. Be sure to wrap tightly to keep the air out and prevent freezer burn. You can keep your treat fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. So be sure to mark the date on the outside. Once you are ready to enjoy again remove from freezer and let sit out to defrost overnight or microwave for that just-baked taste. Proper storage ensures that every slice of Simply Delicious Banana Bread remains as good as the first.

Classic simply delicious banana bread embodies the comfort of home-baked goods. Its wonderfully moist texture and naturally sweet flavor gained from ripe bananas make it an everlasting favorite. This breakfast loaf is as practical as it is satisfying, because you are reducing food waste while also whipping up a tasty delight! It truly is a win-win situation! The simple ingredients make for a hassle-free baking experience and offer a warm, inviting finish to any meal. Banana bread is really suitable for any occasion like breakfast, snack time, or dessert. My favorite part of baking banana bread is how much you can customize with confidence by adding nuts, or chocolate chips to make it uniquely yours. So, the next time you spot those speckled bananas on your counter, know that they are the start of something truly special.

Ingredients:

3 overripe mashed bananas

1/2 cup melted butter

3/4 cup brown sugar

2 eggs

2 cups all-purpose flour

3 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees, oil favorite loaf pan and set aside.

  2. In a large bowl mash overripe bananas. Add in eggs, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix well.

  3. Stir in flour, baking powder and salt. If adding in nuts or chocolate chips you can add now.

  4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and top with chopped nuts if desired.

  5. Bake for 60 minutes on middle rack until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

  6. Let come to room temperature and turn over on a wire rack to remove loaf from pan.

  7. Enjoy!

The Best Monster Cookie Recipe You'll Ever Try!

Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make cookie recipe? Look no further—this Monster Cookie recipe is sure to satisfy anyone's sweet tooth! Packed with sweet and salty flavors, this amazing cookie is already a fan favorite and a classic that has universally loved cookie ingredients. This simple and delicious treat is made with oats, peanut butter, M&Ms, and chocolate chips, creating a classic flavor combination that nobody can turn down. Best of all, this cookie is super easy to make and takes no time at all. So, if you’re looking for a delicious and colorful cookie recipe that everyone will love, give this Monster Cookie recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!

I love making monster cookies so much because of how customizable they are.

Monster cookies are a classic treat that can be customized in countless ways. With the right ingredients, you can create a cookie that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a classic monster cookie recipe or something a little unique to the ingredients, you can make a batch of delicious monster cookies that everyone will love. The best part about making monster cookies is that you can add whatever ingredients you like. Traditionally this cookie would start with classic favorites like chocolate chips and all-natural peanut butter, but delicious new twists to the recipe could include adding things like crushed pretzels and candy. Adding in colorful sprinkles or M&M's for the holidays is one of my favorite seasonal customizations as well. You can even get creative and mix and match different flavors to create the perfect monster cookie for you and your event!

What You’ll Need to Make Monster Cookies

For this recipe, you will need butter, sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, eggs, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and 3 cups of your favorite goodies. I typically use chocolate chips, old-fashioned oats, chopped pecans or walnuts, M&M's and sprinkles. You can add in other things like peanut butter, butterscotch, or anything you have in your pantry to make this monster cookie recipe all your own.

In addition to these ingredients, you’ll likely need a few basic kitchen tools such as a large bowl, an electric mixer or stand mixer, a baking sheet, and measuring cups and spoons. You’ll also need an oven to bake the cookies. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit before you begin. Finally, you’ll need a few minutes of free time to step-by-step mix, scoop, bake, and enjoy the delicious monster cookies you’ve created.

How to Store Leftover Cookies

If you don't plan on eating your leftovers right away, it's important to store them properly. When it comes to storing leftover cookies, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, it's important to store them in an air-tight container, such as a plastic bag or airtight container. This will help to keep them as fresh as possible and keep out any moisture that could cause the cookies to spoil. Additionally, it's important to store the cookies in a cool, dry place. If you plan on storing them for more than a day or two, then it's best to put the container in the refrigerator or freezer. If you plan on keeping them in the freezer, make sure to use freezer-safe bags or containers. This will help to prevent the cookies from becoming soggy or developing freezer burn. Finally, make sure to label the containers with the date you stored them, so you can easily see when they need to be eaten. By following these simple steps, you can easily store your leftover cookies and enjoy them later.

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INGREDIENTS

1 cup butter (2 sticks)

3/4 cup sugar

3/4 brown sugar

1 tsp vanilla

2 large eggs

2 1/4 cups flour

3 tsp baking powder

1 tsp salt

3 cups of your favorite goodies

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

2. Melt the butter for 30 seconds in the microwave (if the butter is not at room temperature).

3. Add sugar & brown sugar into butter and mix. Scrape sides and mix again immediately after.

4. Mix in Vanilla Extract and eggs. Mix again.

5. Gradually add all-purpose Flour, Baking Soda, and salt. Mix well.

6. Now add in all your favorite treats! For these cookies, I did chunks of a milk chocolate bar, old-fashioned oats, colorful M&M’s, sprinkles, and walnuts (all equal to 3 cups)

7. I use a pre-measured cookie scooper linked -here- works great to have even-sized cookies! Scoop onto a baking sheet or parchment paper. Add 2 scoops right on top of each other to give a fuller cookie with a gooier middle.

8. Bake for 9 minutes and cool on a cookie sheet.

9. Enjoy!

Other Cookie Recipes You Will Love:

Birthday Cutout Sugar Cookies

Brown Sugar Toffee Cookies

Brown Butter Caramel Pretzel Cookies

How to Make Delicious Nutter Butter Cookies At Home

The Ultimate Guide to Making A Delicious White Pasta Sauce

If you're looking to switch it up and have a change in taste from all the traditional red sauce dishes, then this deliciously creamy and easy-to-make white pasta sauce is the answer! This classic sauce is perfect as a base for all sorts of dishes, from seafoods to pasta bakes. With just a few ingredients and a few minutes of cooking time, you can have a restaurant-quality meal in no time. Whether you're looking for a simple dinner solution for busy weeknights or a special meal to impress guests, white pasta sauce has got you covered.

White sauce pasta is a favorite among pasta lovers for its creamy and flavorful taste. Made with butter, all-purpose flour, milk, and seasonings, it has a rich flavor that can be further enhanced with Parmesan cheese or herbs. The sauce is perfect for tossing with many foods from noodles to vegetables with of course adding in your proteins, making it a great main dish. Best of all, it can be made in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights.

White sauce pasta is a great way to add creaminess and flavor to any meal. Whether you’re looking for a main course or a side dish, white sauce pasta is a surefire way to please everyone. It's easy to make and can be customized with different ingredients and flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a fancy dinner party dish, white sauce pasta is the way to go. Read on to learn all about this classic sauce and discover some delicious recipes to get you started.

How to Make White Sauce

Pasta is a traditional Italian dish that has become a favorite comfort food for many people around the world. Its versatility makes it a great option for a quick and easy meal, and it’s also a great choice for vegetarian and vegan diets. One of the most popular toppings for pasta is white pasta sauce. This creamy sauce adds a delicious flavor and texture to your favorite pasta dishes, and it can be made with a variety of ingredients.

White pasta sauce is typically made with a combination of butter, cream, and cheese, and sometimes garlic, onion, and herbs are added for extra flavor. Depending on the recipe, you may find that white pasta sauce is made with Parmesan, Romano, or other types of cheese. It can also be made with a variety of other ingredients, such as mushrooms, artichokes, and even spinach for a vegetarian option. It also pairs well with a variety of other ingredients, such as seafood, vegetables, and even meats. If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, white pasta sauce is the perfect choice. You can make a delicious dinner in just a few minutes with this delicious sauce.

When it comes to making white pasta sauce, you have many options. If you’re looking for a classic recipe, you can use a recipe from your favorite Italian cookbook or online. Alternatively, you can make your own white pasta sauce with the ingredients you have on hand. All you need is butter, cream, and cheese. You can also add additional ingredients of your liking, such as garlic, onion, and herbs, for extra flavor. White pasta sauce is an excellent choice for those looking for a creamy and flavorful sauce. It pairs well with a variety of ingredients, making it a great choice for a quick and delicious meal.

What to Do with Leftovers

When you have leftover sauce, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheating the sauce in the microwave or on the stovetop is simple and fast. If you're looking for ways to use up leftover white pasta sauce, there are many options. You can use it to top a pizza, or calzone or mix it into a casserole. You can also mix it with cooked vegetables to make creamy vegetable side dishes. If you're looking for a dip, white pasta sauce is also great for breadsticks and crackers.

If you have extra sauce that you won't use right away, it's easy to freeze. Freezing white pasta sauce is a great way to keep it fresh and delicious for longer periods. To freeze white pasta sauce, first, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight freezer-safe container. Make sure to label the container with the date of freezing so you know when it should be consumed. When you’re ready to use the frozen white pasta sauce, take it out of the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, the white pasta sauce can be reheated in a saucepan on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Having white pasta sauce in the freezer makes it easy to quickly make your favorite pasta dishes and enjoy a delicious meal any night of the week. So go ahead and take advantage of the convenience and flavor of white pasta sauce by freezing it. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be able to enjoy your homemade white pasta sauce for weeks to come!

Pasta Shapes That Work Well

When it comes to white pasta sauce, there are many types of pasta that pair well with it like angel hair or fettuccine to name a few. Penne pasta is a great choice for white sauces because the ridges of the pasta allow the sauce to cling to it. Fusilli is another great option for white sauces, as the crevices of the pasta hold the sauce well. Farfalle has a bow-tie shape that can hold white sauce perfectly, as the sauce gets caught in the folds of the pasta. Orecchiette is a small, disc-shaped pasta that is great for white sauce because the sauce can get into all the crevices of the pasta. Finally, cavatappi is a corkscrew-shaped pasta that is great for white sauce because the sauce can get into all the nooks and crannies of the pasta. No matter what type of pasta you choose to pair with white sauce, it's sure to be a delicious dish!

Variations: Add-in for White Sauce Pasta!

White pasta sauce is a versatile dish that can be adapted to fit your tastes. Whether it’s a traditional Alfredo sauce or a unique creation, you won’t run out of ideas to customize your white sauce. Start by adding herbs and spices to give your white sauce a unique flavor. Garlic, rosemary, oregano, thyme, parsley, nutmeg, and paprika are all great options. You can also add some extra protein to your white sauce by stirring in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crumbled sausage. For a creamy white sauce, try adding cream cheese or sour cream. If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes. Be sure to taste your sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Fast Side Dishes to Pair

Focaccia Bread – Focaccia bread is a delicious side dish to pair with any pasta dish. Making Focaccia bread is simple and it can be served with a variety of sauces. It is a great way to add a touch of Italian flavor to your meal.

Sauteed Vegetables – Sauteed vegetables are an easy and delicious way to add flavor and color to your white pasta dish. Try adding zucchini, mushrooms, bell peppers and onions to your dish for a tasty side dish. Broccoli also added a delicious touch in or on the side of pasta for its flavor and beautiful coloring.

Garlic Bread – A side of garlic bread is a must-have for a pasta dish. The buttery, garlicky flavor will be sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Caesar Salad – A classic side salad is a perfect side dish to a creamy pasta with cream. Caesar salad is a great way to round out your white pasta dish. You can make it as simple or as complicated as you'd like.

Roasted Potatoes – Roasted potatoes are a great side dish for a white pasta dish. The potatoes will soak up the sauce and add a great flavor to the dish. Roasting the potatoes brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes, making them a great accompaniment to the white pasta sauce.

Grilled Chicken - For a classic combination, try adding grilled chicken to the dish. The grilled chicken adds a nice contrast of flavors and textures, making it a great accompaniment to the creamy pasta.

Ingredients:

1/4 cup butter

1 finely chopped shallot

2 minced cloves garlic

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup shredded Parmesan or Mozzarella cheese

2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning

1/4 teaspoon salt

sprinkle of black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat, and add in finely chopped shallot until opaque. Follow by add in garlic and stir in until fragrant.

  2. Add in all-purpose flour and whisk together until smooth and changes to a light color. Be sure to get out any clumps that may come with the all-purpose flour.

  3. Gradually add in cream stirring continuously until it comes together. Be sure to not let it sit or overheat the cream.

  4. Add in Italian seasoning. Cook over low heat until the mixture starts to make a thick consistency and bubble.

  5. Remove from heat and add in shredded parmesan cheese! Serve Immediately and enjoy!

Other Pasta & Italian Recipes You Will Enjoy:

Garlic Mushroom & Shrimp Pasta

Baked Burrata Pumpkin Ziti with Pork Sausage Recipe

Mom's Favorite Minestrone Soup Recipe

Easy and Delicious Mushroom & Pea Risotto Recipe