"" Shop This

Thursday, February 4, 2016

Foodie Friday: Sips, Dips & Chips For The Big Game

(Via The Nest)

This post is composed with apologies to my own "Mr. Shop This,"who is on a heart healthy diet. He does really love a good dip and any kind of chip. Who doesn't? Last week I featured a roundup of elevated appetizers like Individual Baguette Crudités, marvelous mains like Tequila and Lime-Marinated Chicken Skewers with Cilantro Sauce, and an over the top dessert called Carnival Cupcakes. This week we are keeping it real, with delish dips, sweet and savory sips, and crispy chips. No double dipping allowed!

HERE: 21 Super Bowl Specials

Lobster Guacamole 
Chef Todd English's recipe from his NYC Crossbar restaurant, will take your own Guacamole recipe to a whole other level. Your guests will feel very special.
Food Republic

Michelada Gingembre
Made with IPA style beer (whatever that is), this is one tasty pint. It's made with Sprite, lemon juice, Simple Syrup, ginger juice and hot sauce. Interesting!
Food and Wine

Roasted Cauliflower White Pizza Dip
This cheesy dip is a little bit healthy, at least the cauliflower part. The kids will eat their veggie and not even know it! 
Half Baked Harvest

Baked Potato Chips
Said to be ever so much better than what you buy in a bag, you won't be able to eat just one of these. It's served with a Herb and Cheese Dip. Click HERE.
Oprah.com

Skinny Blood Orange Pomegranate Margaritas
I always say when it comes to Margaritas a "skinny one" is the only way to go. What it really means is that it is fresh, without all of that pre-made and not so fresh mix. Agave is one of the saving graces in this chic cocktail.
Heather Christo

New-School French Onion Dip
I think we all grew up on the Yummy boxed soup version of Onion Dip. It was delicious, but have you seen the nutrition values of it? Forget about it. I have made this dip and it is so much better. It will have you thinking outside the box forever.
Food52

Roasted  Tomato Tapenade And Broccoli Cheddar Quiche
Such an attractive dish! And if you can believe it is made with a Coco Cola Reduction Sauce.  If you want something interesting on Sunday, click on.
Bakers Royale

Hot Asiago Crab & Artichoke Dip
Hot artichoke dip is good, but we have all had it. Why not elevate it with Asiago cheese and crab? Sounds much better to me.
The Brewer and The Baker

Golden Beet Chips & Spicy Goat Cheese Dip
 I have never had a goat cheese dip, but I can only imagine that it will be fabulous! And those chips!
How Sweet Eats

Mulled Red and White Wine
Warm up the crowd with these wonderful wine cocktails. A Winter hug in a mug (or glass). 
How Sweet Eats

Pizza Muffin Game Day Appetizer 
I may be cheating a little on this one. The chips are actually  pizza muffins, but they look too good not to share. Super easy and can be made well in advance.

Cheesy Miso Caramelized Corn and Pineapple Chile Dip
Made with 5 types of cheese, corn, pineapple and chiles, this recipe takes the gold medal from me. Served with homemade Wonton Chips.

Fresh Tomato Burrata Cheese Pesto Dip
If you want to serve something that is very "of the moment," make it with Burrata. The homemade pesto really sets this dip apart. Yum!

Bacon Guacamole
This is the recipe of Chef Rick Bayless, so you know it has to be good. It is an obvious pairing, that I have not thought of trying. Chipotle chilies really kick this recipe up a notch.



Football and bloody Marys go hand in hand. Love the idea of a build your own bar! Your guests will too. Getting them involved in presentation will be great fun. Get the details at

Smoked Salmon Dip
Have you noticed how people really love salmon, especially if you are buying? Goop states that guests go crazy for this recipe. 

Roasted Provolone
With just three ingredients, and some grilled bread, this looks like one to try.

Baked Sweet Potato Chips
This recipe is easier than going to the market and reaching for the bag, and ever so much better!
Minimalist Baker

Caramelized Onion Fig & Parmesan Dip
Add a little class to your Super Bowl spread. The salty and sweet ingredients are brought together with roasted garlic.
Not Your Standard

 Baked Eggplant Fries With Goat Cheese Dip
{ Gluten & Grain Free }
A stylish starter.  "Cumin, coriander and cayenne pepper gives the fries a bit of heat which is tempered by the cool, slightly tart goat cheese dip on the side." 
Gourmande In The Kitchen

Chocolate and Toffee Covered Potato Chips 
These are made with Ruffles Potato Chips and can be made in 5 minutes. Click below to see the yummy video. I just had to include something sweet!
Bakers Royale On You Tube

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 

~ You May Also Love ~






Wednesday, February 3, 2016

Trend Thursday: Tassels


You may have noticed by now that I love a good tassel. Apparently I am not the only one, as the runways for Spring and Fall 2016 were trailing with tassels. They are so fun, fanciful, and free spirited. When it comes to fashion, tassels are tricky. If not done right, they can become tacky or overdone. Accessories are another story! That's were this trend really shines. 

Shop Chroma Collection

HERE: Twelve Terrific Tassels 

Armani Collezioni Tassel-Zip Asymmetric Poncho
Love the flair that this long tassel adds to the poncho. Best yet, it is on sale now. You will wear it all Spring.
Neiman Marcus

Kenneth Jay Lane
This medley of brilliant beads makes me so happy! The chic combination of colors actually become quite neutral. These are winners.

Ulla Johnson Griffin Tassel Boots
Brown usually isn't my first choice when it comes to footwear, but these spoke to me. A perfect choice to wear now and through Spring.

Dhari One Piece
Boho and beautiful, this one piece features tassels in front and back. It is said to have a "cheeky" fit.  :)
Free People

Loeffler Randall Clo
Here's the shoe that you will wear with everything this Spring and Summer. It's neutral but not without flair.
Zappos Couture

Derek Lam 10 Crosby
Tasseled Cashmere Sweater
Beautiful in blush, this sweater drapes perfectly. The tassel is the icing on the cake!
Nordstrom

Sensi Studio Straw Tote
Handcrafted in Ecuador, this tote screams vibrant vacation. Effortlessly chic.
Moda Operandi

Monogram Tassel Key Chain
A cool key carrier that makes a great gift.
Mark and Graham

Sofia Backpack
What a fun find! Take it for arm free traveling, commuting or shopping.
Rebecca Minkoff

Rebecca Minkoff Sofia Clutch
if you are like me, and don't wear a backpack, this clutch is the way to go. I couldn't love a bag better.
Nordstrom

Narcissus Tassel Necklace
Modern and simplistic, this necklace is long on style. It's also on sale!
Lulu Frost

Adele Tortoise Minaudiere
Classically chic and compact. I so love this bag!
Tory Burch

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 

Tuesday, February 2, 2016

Valenine Gifts For Him


Gifting guys can be tricky, but they like to feel loved, too. There's more than one way to do that. Many gifts that come to mind really don't cost a thing - cooking his favorite meal, wearing something he loves, looking extra kissable, and so many more unwrappable ideas.  Then there are presents that are thoughtful, useful, and oh so interesting. I think you'll find the perfect thing for him in this red hot roundup.

NORDSTROM - Shop Valentine's Day Gifts

HERE: 12 Ways To Win His Heart




Wooden 24 Beard Oil Sampler Gift Set
Perfect for the well groomed bearded man.  24 scents like Bay Rum, Rain Forrest, Sicilian Lemon, Walk in the Woods, and 20 more will make each day interesting for both of you.
AHAlife

Salvatore Ferragamo Belt Gift Set
This gift hits it above the belt and in the best possible of ways! Along with a good pair of shoes, the dapper man needs a luxe leather belt. This set offers a reversible belt and two buckles. It's for heartthrobs with expensive tastes!
Neiman Marcus

BNY Sole Series
Up any guys cool factor with stylish sneakers from a Limited Edition by Common Projects. Turns out, Mom was right. You can judge a man by the shoes he wears!
Barney's New York


Grand Star - Football Snack Dispenser 
Sweeten the fact that after Sunday, football season is over.  A fun gift for football fans everywhere. Perfect for the man cave or office. Fill it with Personalized M & M's or yummy Gumballs from Dylan's Candy Bar
Best Buy

Tom Dixon Fire Candle
There's more than one way to light his fire.  A sophisticated candle with a blend of smoky scents including amber, musk, charred woods and more. Provides 40 red hot hours.
East Dane

Carrera Aviator Sunglasses
Aviators are always classic with a sexy sporty edge. The subtle touch of red will get his heart racing.
Saks Fifth Avenue

Make Your Own Hot Sauce Kit
For the man who likes it hot! Is there one that doesn't? This set gets its' kick from chipotle and guajillo peppers. Yum!
Uncommon Goods

Sushi Time Plates
Remember the Sex In The City Scene when Samantha arranged sushi all over her naked body? Well, that didn't work out so well. These might be a better idea. Sushi is sexy enough on its' own.
Generate Design

Dotti Smart Pixel Light
More than a fun piece of art, Dotti will become his new BFF (besides you). Dotti is a Bluetooth-enabled smart light that syncs with a smartphone.  It gives alerts of texts, calls and notifications from apps. Dotti also dances to music, turns into a game of dice, and keeps track of time! Dotti is one smart girl. Click to see what makes Dotti tick.

91-Plus Trio of California Pinot Noir 
Dazzle his palate with this set of conscientiously made Sonoma County wine. The set has been blended by breakthrough winemaker Joseph Jewell, just for IfOnly. Who needs a bouquet of flowers when you can enjoy this? Cheers!
IfOnly

Knock Knock's Personalized Book 
Score big with this little book that you fill with love and affection. It's a fill in the blanks type of story with statements like "I am a little obsessed with your __________" or I dig the way you _________. It will be fun for the two of you.
Nordstrom

True Religion Embroidered Baseball Cap
Just a friendly reminder. He better be. He'll love the cool contrast of the logo lettering. 





~ You May Also Love ~

V-Day Gift Ideas That Are As Unique As They Are Sweet
One Kings Lane

~ And ~


Lounge Act: At Home Styles For The Two Of You