Strawberry Crumble from Anna Jones

Perfect timing by the Wall Street Journal this morning!  I couldn't decide what to make for my tennis team's annual shindig (tonight!), until I came across this recipe for Strawberry Crumble, by Anna Jones.  This is such a beautifully simple recipe, enhanced with elegant nuances from the vanilla bean and lemon zest. I can't wait to get my hands on her cookbook, A Modern Way to Eat.  

Of course,  since I have a strong tendency to play with food,  I added toasted pine nuts and goat cheese to the strawberry mix, and then drizzled it with a scant amount of balsamic syrup.  I also added orange water to the crumble topping because I didn't have any oranges in my fruit basket. I didn't have poppy seeds either, but thats ok. The orange blossom water adds a slightly exotic aroma to the recipe without interfering with the classic taste of baked strawberries and oats.

detox with pancakes !

Happy New Year! I haven't posted anything since August... i know, i know, i know.  

Sooooo, in an effort to be a better blogger, and a healthier body in 2015 ( i know, i know, i know...) I'm starting the year with a recipe for truly healthy PANCAKES.  I don't know about you, but I find it  difficult to swallow a cold, green smoothie on a morning when the windchill factor is 21 BELOW zero.  I need something warm and comforting that pairs well with several cups of very hot (and very strong) coffee.

These pancakes are gluten-free, dairy free, and paleo (w/ the exception of the baking soda which you can omit if need be.)  I promise this recipe will fill your belly and warm your soul as you prepare to face these freezing cold winter days!

"Laissez les bons temps rouler", otherwise known as It's Fat Tuesday, Ya'll!

Chanel Automne-Hiver 2014/2015
photo by The Coveteur

 Chanel Automne-Hiver 2014/2015
photo by The Coveteur

Chanel Automne-Hiver 2014/2015
photo by The Coveteur

It is appropriate that the ever genius, Karl Lagerfield chose to debut Chanel's supermarket themed Automne-Hiver 2014/2015 show on Mardi Gras! What could be more indulgent than this?! Instagram has been buzzing with images from this magnificent spectacle, but one of the best sites to see pictures of his masterpiece right now, is over at The Coveteur.  I would have died to be at the Grand Palais this morning, but I will content myself with everything that social media has to offer.  That, and some chocolate cake - it's FAT tuesday after all.

photo by Butter and Figs

dreaming of spring - a salad to get you through February

We just returned from a brief trip to southern Florida, and I'm craving food reminiscent of warmer weather.  This salad seems to do the trick - it combines the fresh flavors of a southern climate, with a cozy creaminess that February demands.  It's a simple recipe, sure to keep you content while you're dreaming of spring.  As a bonus,  it's completely paleo friendly )Gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free).

gluten free goodness, from Purely Elizabeth

Am I the last person on earth to hear about Purely Elizabeth?  Such gluten free, organic goodness.  I first came across her cookie mix when I was hosting a tea, for a friend who has Celiac disease.  Not only are her products gluten free, but they're not full of junk and filler!   In fact they are gluten, dairy, and soy free, and vegan to boot.  Here's the kicker,  THEY TASTE AWESOME!!!

I had the pumpkin fig cereal for breakfast this morning, with almond milk, and I was back in cereal heaven.  Due to my own sensitivities to gluten and dairy,  I haven't had decent cereal in years!

It's very important to have a few gluten free items stocked in your pantry, for your guests who may have a minor gluten intolerance, or full blown celiac disease.  These are serious conditions, and any host or hostess should be extremely attentive to guests that have these allergies. 

Of course Elizabeth's products are so much more than gluten free! She has done a tremendous amount of research, to create the most natural and wholesome foods possible.  I hope you will spend some time on Purely Elizabeth's website.  It is choc full of nutritional education and healthy living tips,  even if you aren't pursuing a gluten-free lifestyle. 

a gluten free cracker

I'm constantly in search of good crackers to serve my gluten-free friends.  These little gems from "Le Pain des Fleurs" are one of my favorites.  They are a bit rustic with a nice crisp.  The quinoa is slightly nutty, and the cracker has just enough added salt for flavor.  They are just as good with cheese and olives for cocktails, as they are with nutella for a midnight snack.  A must for any pantry.