Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Tasty Tuesday: America's Test Kitchen Banana Bread


Last week I had a craving for some homemade banana bread and decided to scroll through Pinterest for a new recipe. I'm a big fan of America's Test Kitchen so when I came across this recipe for their ultimate banana bread I decided to give it a try. I loved the rich banana flavor from using 3 bananas and the addition of yogurt to make the bread moist. This is a winner in my book.


America's Test Kitchen Banana Bread
Makes 1 loaf

INGREDIENTS

2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour 
¾ cup sugar
¾ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon table salt
3 very ripe bananas, mashed (about 1½ cups)
¼ cup plain yogurt (I used french vanilla yogurt and eliminated the vanilla extract)
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1¼ cup walnuts (chopped coarse)

DIRECTIONS

Adjust a rack to the lower-middle position of the oven and heat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan; set aside.
Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda and salt together in a large bowl; set aside.
Mix the mashed bananas, yogurt, eggs, butter, and vanilla together with a wooden spoon in a medium bowl. Lightly fold the banana mixture into the dry ingredients with a rubber spatula until just combined and the batter looks thick and chunky. Fold in the walnuts. Scrape the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface with the spatula.
Bake until the loaf is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 55 minutes. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
xoxo
PS

Monday, April 29, 2013

What I'm Reading Now: 2013 Chicago Festival Guide


Summer is fast approaching and with this warm weather today I'm getting pretty excited for festival season to begin next month. I looking forward to tasting some amazing food & drinks with friends, checking out some talented artists, and rocking out to some awesome musicians. Check out this Festival Guide for an updated list of events this summer.

Image found here

My Picks:

xoxo

PS

Friday, April 26, 2013

Springing into the Weekend


Image found here

Party Favors:
Virgin America is pretty awesome
How much food does $5 buy around the world?
The best picnic accessory
The voice behind the CTA telling me the doors open on the right at Belmont
Take a trip down memory lane with these vintage J.Crew catalogs

xoxo

PS

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Fab 5: Life Lately



1. I bought a succulent plant for my apartment in hopes that I can cross off #94 on my 101 in 1001 list.
2. I attended the Time Out Chicago Eat Out Awards at Terzo Piano with Linnea. I'm still dreaming about the s'mores tart...
3. My first outing to Wrigley Field this year to watch Michigan play Northwestern.
4. If you're looking for an awesome lunch spot in the Loop head over to Toni Patisserie and Cafe. I'm seriously obsessed with their macarons and chocolate chip cookies.
5. I enjoyed lunch in Millennium Park this week and pretended to be a tourist (why not).

xoxo

PS

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Weekly Pick: Denim Vests


This season I'm slightly obsessed with denim vests that can easily transform an outfit from boring to chic. It's the perfect layering piece for your wardrobe to throw over a maxi dress/skirt, pair with denim skinny jeans or a short summer dress.



Images found here

Get the Look:

xoxo

PS

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Tasty Tuesday: Mon Ami Gabi


I'm pretty shocked (actually to be honest very shocked) that I haven't mentioned Mon Ami Gabi on Project Soiree. We all have our "go-to" restaurants in the city and for me Mon Ami Gabi is my ideal place to bring a friend, date, family or just myself and a good book. The food has always been phenomenal and the ambiance indoors or on the patio keeps me coming back for more.

First they bring this amazing warm baguette to the table which many of you already know is my weakness. That crisp crust and warm flaky center of a baguette wins me over with a glass of sparkling wine or pinot noir from their rolling bar cart.


The salads and soups are out of this world so don't overlook them and go straight to the entrees. The Farmers Market Tomato Salad with Roquefort blue cheese and lemon vinaigrette and the Butter Lettuce and Arugula Salad with warm chick pea croutons and grana padano cheese are both amazing to start with. If you visit during the summer months and you're enjoying the patio then you must order the gazpacho soup. Last summer I was pretty obsessed with gazpacho so trust me I tasted my fair share around the city and Mon Ami Gabi took top honor.


For the entrees I would highly recommend the Trout Amandine served with hericot verts and topped with brown butter and almonds or the Salmon and Leek Quinoa with citron butter. I've also tried the Caramelized Sea Scallops served with a pea puree that were absolutely phenomenal. It's also worth mentioning that their frites are totally worth ordering as a side because you'll finish them and consider ordering more (they really are that good). At the end you'll see a dessert menu and probably think I'm crazy for suggesting that you order something after everything I've recommended. Just do yourself a favor and order the profiteroles filled with vanilla ice cream and topped with double chocolate fudge sauce and your night will be complete. Did you make a reservation yet?

xoxo

PS

Monday, April 22, 2013

What I'm Reading Now: The Dinner


This month my book club picked The Dinner as our next read. The book follows two couples that meet at a fashionable restaurant for dinner where the conversation starts as a polite banter but with each new course the conversation takes a turn. Each couple has a 15 year old son and the two boys are united by a single horrific act. When the topic of conversation turns to their two boys the reader is left to see how far one will go to protect those they love and how we might react in the face of tragedy.

I'm just starting this book and already I can see how it's received mixed reviews. The characters are slightly underdeveloped and difficult to like which makes it hard to read in my opinion. I've heard the story line gets pretty suspenseful so I'm excited to keep reading and watch the story unfold.


xoxo

PS

Friday, April 19, 2013

Cheers to the Weekend


Image found here


Party Favors:
I'm slightly obsessed with Mad Men and Roger Sterling
7 ways to use mason jars
I'm crushing on this book headboard
I might need this wine rating pad for the summer in Northern Michigan
How Jenna Lyons transformed J.Crew into a cult brand


xoxo

PS

Thursday, April 18, 2013

Fab 5: Shifting Into Spring


Ok, so the weather might still be a little chilly in Chicago to rock one of these shift dresses, but pairing them with tights or boots in the mean time is always an option. What I love about a shift dress is the versatility to wear them to work, on a date, or weekend brunch with your friends. You can't go wrong with this dress ladies.


1. Prints are a spring staple this season so this option from Mango hits a home run.
2. I'm obsessed with this tribal print shift dress from Dorothy Perkins with the stud detailing around the collar.
3. This lace panel shift dress from Topshop is a perfect option for the 9-5 girl.
4. I love this denim shift dress from Madewell as a transitional piece for spring. I would pair it with tights and booties and a bright belt or necklace to finish off the look.
5. Check out Zara for this on-trend printed shift dress that would be perfect leading into the warm summer months.

xoxo

PS

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Weekly Pick: PAWS Chicago


One of my 101 in 1001 goals is donating $25 each month to a charity/organization, so this month I decided to donate to PAWS Chicago where my donation will help give Chicago's homeless pets a second chance. PAWS Chicago is the city's largest No Kill humane organization, focused on implementing solutions to end the killing of homeless pets. Since PAWS Chicago's founding in 1997, the number of homeless dogs and cats killed annually has dropped more than 69%: from more than 42,000 homeless pets killed in 1997 to less than 18,000 killed in 2011.

PAWS Chicago’s four part approach to No Kill combines an accessible spay/neuter program geared toward low-income communities where the majority of unwanted animals are born; a progressive adoption program that gives an adoption guarantee to the animals taken in; a comprehensive volunteer program, training and utilizing volunteers in every aspect of shelter operations; and lastly, an advanced shelter medicine program in which all sick and injured pets are treated.
I'm also considering running the Run For Their Lives 8k on June 9 here in Chicago. If you're a runner in Chicago and want to join me let me know!



xoxo

PS

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Tasty Tuesday: Time Out Chicago Eat Out Awards 2013


Last night the hottest restaurants in Chicago were featured at the Time Out Chicago Eat Out Awards, and thanks to the Chicago Blogger Network I had exclusive access to the event. The food was phenomenal (see below) that we had to make the rounds three times to try everything. It truly was a food lovers paradise to taste food from some of the best restaurants in Chicago. 

The award for best new restaurant went to Fat Rice which I'm quickly adding to my list of restaurants to visit in the city. To see all the Time Out Chicago Eat Out Award winners click here. Congrats to all the winners!

The sea scallops and oysters were a huge hit, but the highlight of the night was the s'mores tart...I woke up this morning still dreaming about the decadent chocolate and toasted marshmallow. 


xoxo

PS

Monday, April 15, 2013

What I'm Reading Now: Blog, Inc.


I started Project Soiree a little over 2 years ago so I don't consider myself a newbie to the blogging world but I know there's so much more I could learn. Joy Cho of one of my favorite blogs Oh Joy! wrote this book Blog, Inc. about blogging for passion, profit and to create community. She highlights all the basics to get you started and I'm really excited to learn more about attracting a fan base, overcoming blogger's block, creating a media kit, and how to partner with sponsors. After paging through some of the chapters I can see how this book would be beneficial to bloggers at every level who want a new perspective on blogging and tips for improvement.


xoxo

PS

Friday, April 12, 2013

Welcome to the Weekend


Image found here


Party Favors:
8 ways to be more courageous
A 37 calorie brownie
The typical day of a teenage girl in the late 90's
Challenge yourself to stretch your vocabulary
A new bakery in Lincoln Park that delivers cookies until 3AM? Brilliant


xoxo

PS

Thursday, April 11, 2013

Fab 5: Step Into Spring


Spring hasn't quite made an appearance in Chicago (I'm still bundled up in my North Face parka), but I'm ready to step into spring with these shoes. From stylish flats and chic heels here are some of my favorite picks that are sure to put a spring in your step.
1. These Sole Society Addy t-strap flats are so chic for walking around the city.
2. I love these Target Mossimo wedges paired with boyfriend jeans and a crisp white shirt.
3.These trendy Zara lace-up sandals have been making there way through the blogosphere.
4. Keds and Kate Spade have teamed up to create this timeless nautical stripe pointer that I've added to my wish list.
5. I'm still crushing on the gorgeous Jenni Kayne d'Orsay flats.

xoxo

PS

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

Weekly Pick: Jumping on the Jumpsuit Trend


At 5'10 I never really thought I could pull off the jumpsuit trend, but this find from Target proved me wrong. What I love about this fashion piece is the ease and versatility to dress it up for my birthday dinner at the Heritage Restaurant in Grand Rapids or dress it down for a weekend running errands around town. Take note however that I wouldn't recommend a jumpsuit (for functional purposes) if you're planning an afternoon wine tasting or a beer crawl with your friends...

If you saw my outfit post last week you might notice I embraced my roots (sort of) by going blonde and shaved off a few inches. Thanks Capelli!



A big thank you to my little sis for running around downtown GR and snapping these photos. Love ya!

Jumpsuit: Target / Sunglasses: H&M (Similar Style Here)./ Heels: Gap (Similar Style:Here) / Bag: VJSTYLE


xoxo

PS

Tuesday, April 9, 2013

Tasty Tuesday: Portabella Mushroom and Bulgur Salad


I came across this recipe for a Grilled Portabella & Bulgur Salad on Pinterest the other day and decided to re-create it for an easy and healthy dinner. I'm a huge fan of the 10 minute bulgur at Trader Joe's which is a huge time saver for a quick weeknight meal. I typically make extra bulgur because I love the leftovers for lunch the next day where I can mix in any vegetables, nuts, or dried fruit that I have on hand for a delicious salad.


Portabella Mushroom and Bulgur Salad
1/2 cup bulgur
1 cup of water
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 T red wine vinegar
1 portabella mushroom 
Arugula
Salt & Pepper
Pine Nuts
Cherry Tomatoes

Peel skin from portabella mushroom using tip of a pairing knife, pulling from edge of mushroom toward center. Gently scrape off gills from mushroom with tip of a spoon. Toss the portabella mushroom with olive oil & vinegar and place in a baking dish to marinate for 10-20 minutes. Prepare a skillet for cooking the mushroom over medium heat for around 4-5 minutes on each side.

Add the 1/2 cup bulgur and 1 cup of water (or vegetable broth) to a large bowl and simmer on medium-high until it comes to a boil. Reduce the heat and cover for 10 minutes until the water is absorbed and the bulgur is tender.

To assemble the salad put a handful of arugula in a bowl and top with the portabella mushroom. Pack the bulgur into a cup or spoon on top of portabella and add sliced tomatoes, pine nuts and salt and pepper. I also added a little olive oil for more flavor.

xoxo

PS

Monday, April 8, 2013

What I'm Reading Now: What We Talk About When We Talk About God


Rob Bell is one of my favorite authors so I was really excited to read his latest book What We Talk About When We Talk About God. What I love about Rob Bell is that he has a gift of connecting with readers through his creativity and thought provoking ideas about faith. In What We Talk About When We Talk About God, Rob outlines how we can reconnect with the God that is pulling us forward into a brighter future by focusing on how God is with us, for us, and ahead of us.

Each time I read one of his books I come away with a new understanding of my faith and an opportunity to see the world in a new light. It's refreshing to think about a God pulling us forward towards a greater future where we can continue to grow and mature, and that God will meet us right where we are.



xoxo

PS

Friday, April 5, 2013

Weekend Links


Image found here


Party Favors:
10 things to look forward to this summer
  The do's and don'ts of first date style
A fun DIY for spring
 Stationary lovers will adore this subscription box
How to make the best gin and tonic


xoxo

PS

Thursday, April 4, 2013

Fab 5: April Showers Bring May Flowers


The forecast in Chicago next week calls for rain so I'm staying prepared with some essentials. Here are five must-have items to survive spring showers in the city.
1. This J.Crew collection linen slicker will keep you dry and chic.
2. Mane Message ombre hair ties are essential for keeping your hair under control in the humidity.
3. Baggu bags are great for groceries, but they're also ideal for keeping your things dry.
4. A floral Madewell umbrella will brighten those gray days.
5. Hunter Boots are a city girl's must-have for walking down the street.

xoxo

PS


Wednesday, April 3, 2013

Weekly Pick: My Weekend Style


A simple v-neck gray t-shirt is a must-have in my closet. To be honest I probably have at least 5 of these tees on hand and wear at least one a week with jeans on the weekend or dressed up with a pencil skirt for work during the week. While it's still chilly outside (where are you spring?) a printed beanie, wedge sneakers and mirrored aviators are the perfect pairings for a weekend outfit.



Leland was a pro after making her modeling debut here (I think she's hoping Bush's might need a replacement for Duke).

T-Shirt: Gap /Jeans: Gap /Shoes: Target /Hat: H&M /Sunglasses: H&M /Bag: VJSTYLE

xoxo

PS  

Tuesday, April 2, 2013

Tasty Tuesday: Meatless


Since I'm a vegetarian (as some of you learned last week from my Five Things post) I'm always on the hunt for new recipes and tips to try in my kitchen. Martha Stewart recently released this Meatless cookbook with over 200 mouth watering recipes that I'm so excited to try. Honestly even if you aren't a vegetarian many of these recipes are perfect side dishes to round out your meals or an easy way to add some veggies into your diet. My favorite part about this cookbook is that many of the recipes are quick and easy to make, and the appendix has some great tricks and basic recipes that are always good to have on hand. 


Here are a few recipes I've bookmarked:

Orzo Salad with Roasted Carrots and Dill / Rice Noodles with Broccoli Pesto / Versatile Vegetarian Chili
Images found here

xoxo

PS

Monday, April 1, 2013

What I'm Reading Now: Domino Magazine


I was so excited when I found the latest issue of Domino Magazine that featured easy decorating ideas for small spaces (city girls listen up - this issue is a must-have). I absolutely love all the tips and tricks to make your small space look and feel bigger and over a 100 different sources for everything your apartment might need. Living in a small space definitely has it's design challenges but these inspiring spaces have my wheels turning to make a few changes in my apartment.


I'm loving the bright pops of color in this living room that give this small space a lot of character. The curtains hung close to the ceiling give the illusion of taller ceilings to make the space feel bigger than it actually is.


This small kitchen is looks much larger with overhead lighting and a fresh white color palette. The exposed shelving is also a fun way to display some of your favorite dishes instead of keeping them behind closed doors.
 
Images found here

xoxo

PS
 
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