Tasty Tuesday: Vegetarian Burrito Bowl

A meal that's quick, easy and healthy is a triple win in my book which is why I'm head over heels for these vegetarian burrito bowls. Featuring brown rice (that I mix with lime juice and cilantro) and seasonal vegetables this meal is my new go-to weeknight meal. I used sugar snap peas, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms and green pepper as my vegetable base but the great thing about this recipe is you can use whatever vegetables you love (I'm adding butternut squash next time). Topped with black beans and diced avocado this vegetarian burrito bowl is satisfying and delicious.

Ingredients:
Brown Rice
Cilantro
Lime
1 (15 ounce) can Black Beans
Avocado (diced)
Cherry Tomatoes
Sugar Snap Peas
Mushrooms
Green Pepper
Salt
Pepper

Directions:
Cook brown rice according to package directions. When brown rice is cooked add in the juice of half a lime and a sprig of cilantro diced. In the meantime sauté or roast your desired vegetables. Cook black beans according to directions and put them on top of the brown rice along with your cooked vegetables. Top with diced avocado and salt and pepper (to taste).

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Fancy Nanc-ista

I recently met Nancy at 52Eighty a couple weeks ago and instantly feel in love with her fashion blog Fancy Nanc-ista. Nancy started her blog last summer as an outlet to share her favorite styles and trends for any occasion. Check out Fancy Nanc-ista for inspiration on how to mix unique pieces in your wardrobe for a stylish look!

Get to know Nancy:

1. What are you currently reading?

I am currently not reading anything at the moment; however I want to start reading the Hunger Games books sometime. I loved the movies, but I have heard good things about the books!   

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?

I love Asian food, and my most favorite restaurant is Jellyfish on Rush.

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?

There are many things I love about blogging. I love that I have an opportunity to meet other fabulous bloggers, and of course being able to publicly share my fashion thoughts and looks of the day to everyone!

4. Five things on your wish list?

1. Balenciaga Zip Satchel Bag in blue
2. Nikky Boot by Schutz Shoes (Love these!)
3. iPad 
4. DSLR Camera
5. Saint Laurent Carryall Bag in pink 

5. Favorite quote? 

"Don't wait for the world to recognize your greatness, live it and let the world catch up to you."

xoxo

PS

Happy Friday + Links

1. 7 great reasons why you don't need money to be stylish

2. S'more peanut butter cookies? Say no more...

3. I'm obsessed with these Elizabeth and James trousers for Fall

4. All of these Fall Bites look amazing (I need to make that Pumpkin Chocolate Bread)

5. Life lessons from the Gilmore Girls (love this)

6. These little free libraries are adorable

7. I'm totally swooning on the Burberry monogrammed blanket coats this season

8. I can't wait to start reading Accidental Happiness written by a friend here in Chicago!

Around Town:

I can't wait for the Think Pink fundraiser next week!

Mark your calendars for the Gilt City Warehouse Sale Friday, October 17 and Saturday, October 18

A few things you may have missed...

What I'm Reading Now: Sed Bona

Tasty Tuesday: Bin 36

Weekly Pick: Boot Camp

Fab 5: Things I Currently Love

xoxo

PS

Fab 5: Things I Currently Love

1. Have you heard of ClassPass? ClassPass is an alternative to a gym membership with access to some of the best boutique fitness classes in your city. For $99 a month, ClassPass members get unlimited classes to use at studios in the ClassPass network. I recently took a class at The Barre Code and The Dailey Method and although my abs are still in pain I really loved trying something new.

2. The Everygirl recently added these adorable insulated travel tumblers to their shop. Starting your morning with a hot cup of coffee and an inspirational quote is the absolute best.

3. My latest beauty product crave is the Physicians Formula Organic Wear CC Curl mascara. This mascara is pretty amazing sculpting brush and and curl booster technology. 

4. I can't stop wearing my Superga sneakers on the weekend with a graphic tee and boyfriend jeans. I don't know what I would do without these shoes that are perfect for walking around the city.

5. I have the new alt-j album on repeat at work and I seriously can't stop listening to each song.

xoxo

PS

Weekly Pick: Boot Camp

Hello Fall! I'm stepping into this new season with these fabulous boots from Shopbop in classic black, weekend wear, peep toe and over the knee styles that are the perfect accessory for my Fall wardrobe. Which style is your favorite?

Dolce Vita / H by Hudson/ Kate Spade New York

Jeffrey Campbell/ Kurt Geiger London/ Madewell  

Badgley Mischka/ Dolce Vita/ Stuart Weitzman

Marc by Marc Jacobs/ Sam Edelman/ Stuart Weitzman

xoxo

PS

Tasty Tuesday: Bin 36

When you're a vegetarian and hear about "The World's Best Veggie Sandwich" at Bin 36 you don't walk you run to devour this sandwich. So did the sandwich live up to it's name?

What do you find on The World's Best Veggie Sandwich? Well a lot of veggies of course including cucumbers, tomatoes, pickled onions and arugula on a toasted wheat bread. What makes this sandwich so amazing is that instead of using mayo or mustard the sandwich comes with cashew butter. Yes, you read that right. And it's absolutely amazing and worthy of the title "World's Best."

If you've never been to Bin 36 I would highly recommend stopping in for happy hour with your girlfriends for a glass (or two) of wine and a cheese plate (they have a selection of 32 types of cheese). They also have a wide selection of wines to purchase in their Market along with creative gift baskets and wine flight boxes.

Bin 36

339 N. Dearborn

Chicago, IL 60654

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Sed Bona

After being Instagram friends with Ashley (mushroomstew) I was so delighted to finally meet her last week and learn more about her recently launched blog Sed Bona (the Latin phrase meaning 'quality over quantity'). Sed Bona features Ashely's incredible photography, adventures throughout Chicago and some fun tips and tricks. Follow along with Ashley via Instagram and Sed Bona!

Get to know Ashley:

1. What are you currently reading?

I'm currently re-reading Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier - one of my very favorites. I love the fact that you never learn the main character's name, especially considering how prominent the name Rebecca is in the novel.

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?

Shiso for sushi in Old Town. They have some really incredible and unique rolls and high quality sashimi!

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?

My favorite thing about blogging is all the new experiences and people it has brought into my life. I'm still new to blogging, having only launched Sed Bona in July but I've been lucky to work with some amazing trendsetters here in Chicago and some amazing restaurants already. I love having such a rich community of artists here in Chicago to inspire me to push myself forward. 

4. Five things on your wish list?

1. Mansur Gavriel Bucket Bag
2. Jo Malone Wood Sage and Sea Salt Candle
3. Prada Saffiano Leather Tote (in either red or blue)
4. Burberry Cashmere Trench
5. Espa Energizing Body Oil

5. Favorite Quote?

"Just say yes and figure it all out later" - Tina Fey

xoxo

PS

Happy Friday + Links

1. Learn how to roll your sleeves the J.Crew way

2. As many of you know I'm obsessed with s'mores anything so I'm dying to make this Dark Chocolate S'more Popcorn from Caravan of Style

3. Switch up your desktop background with one of these fun options (I just downloaded 'Attack Today Gracefully')

4. I love these simple vegetarian weeknight dinner recipes from Cookie + Kate

5. 10 great ideas to live spontaneously from Heart of Chic (I'm trying #2 this weekend)

6. I'm adding this DKNY cape dress to my Fall wish list

7. Have you heard of ClassPass? It's my latest obsession and a great way to try new fitness classes

8. Did you know I have an Etsy Shop? You can also find one of my pieces in Pretty & Fun's gallery wall as seen in The Glitter Guide

A few more links:
Thank you Color Me Styled for including me in your Five Faves this week!

Around Town:
If you're looking for something fun to do this weekend head over to Dose Market on Sunday

A few things you may have missed...
What I'm Reading Now: Short is the New Black
Tasty Tuesday: Decade of Decadence at The Peninsula Chicago
Weekly Pick: Spot On
Fab 5: Fall Wish List

xoxo

PS

Fab 5: Fall Wish List

I can't believe Fall officially starts next week Tuesday! Where did Summer go? I made it through most of my Summer Checklist and although I'm sad to pack up my sandals and swimsuits I'm ready to embrace Fall.

1. A new pair of booties (I'm obsessed with these from Dolce Vita).

2. My mom's favorite holiday is Halloween so I grew up with a house full of Fall decorations. This year I'm going to add a little Fall flavor to my apartment.

3. I'm slightly obsessed with Apple Crisp (recipe here) so I can't wait to make this ASAP.

4. A trip to Robinette's Apple Orchard in my hometown of Grand Rapids, MI is a must (their pumpkin donut is the absolute best).

5. Picking up Honey Crisp apples from the Green City Market

What's on your Fall wish list?

xoxo

PS

Weekly Pick: Spot On

SS Print Shop Leopard Print

H&M Short-Sleeved Leopard Blouse

Clare V. Haircalf Fold Over Clutch

J.Crew Elsie Calf Hair Pumps

Kate Spade Leopard iPhone Case

C.Wonder Leopard Dessert Plate Set

Arianna Belle Leopard Print Cotton Velvet Pillow Cover

H&M Leopard Patterned Coat

xoxo

PS

Tasty Tuesday: Decade of Decadence at The Peninsula Chicago

Last week I celebrated a Decade of Decadence at The Peninsula Chicago with an incredible meal and of course a trip to the famous Chocolate Bar. "Chocolate at the Pen" is the premier chocolate bar in Chicago located in The Lobby from 8pm-12am on Friday and Sunday with the most indulgent after dinner chocolate treats (scroll down to see what I mean).

I was definitely savoring summer with this summer beet and fennel salad with strawberry, almond and Lincoln Log cheese. All the best flavors of summer in every bite.

As someone who absolutely loves fish I was obsessed with this olive oil poached halibut. Served over piperade and fresh herbs this fish was flavorful and cooked to perfection.

So remember that Chocolate Bar I was talking about earlier? Here's a little glimpse at what you'll find at this decadent table with everything your heart desires in the form of chocolate. Executive Pastry Chef and Chocolate Sommelier Dimitri Fayard has created the most incredible chocolate bites with white, milk, dark and extra dark chocolate. Since The Peninsula Chicago is celebrating the 10th anniversary of "Chocolate at the Pen" they also have a Chocolate Sommelier to concoct your own unique chocolate confections. Items in the Chocolate Bar vary weekly but I absolutely loved the s'mores bite (of course) and the macarons.

Thank you to everyone at The Peninsula Chicago for an incredible evening!

The Peninsula Chicago - The Lobby

108 East Superior Street

Chicago, IL 60611

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Short is the New Black

For some fashion and beauty inspiration Short is the New Black is a daily must read. Justine has quite an eye for fashion and I love following her adventures throughout Chicago. Check out Short is the New Black to find a hip restaurant in Chicago or a new lipstick to add to your collection.

Get to know Justine:

1. What are you currently reading? 

Well, I've joined my first book club, the Boozy Book Club! We are reading Brain of Fire for September-October. "An award-winning memoir and instant New York Times bestseller that goes far beyond its riveting medical mystery, Brain on Fire is the powerful account of one woman’s struggle to recapture her identity." I have a feeling it's going to be a good one!

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant? 

I'm always searching for new restaurants in the city.....one of the many reasons why I love living in Chicago! Right now I have two favorites both located in the West Loop: Maude's Liquor Bar & La Sirena Clandestina. My favorite recipe has got to be this "easy chicken fried rice" - it takes the healthy route to one of my favorite (and basic) Chinese food dishes!

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging? 

There are so many things I love about blogging but I think my favorite is the amazing people you meet along the way. Stephanie was my first blogging friend and over a year later, I consider her one of my best friends.

4. Five things on your wish list?

1. This Celine Handbag
2. My next David Yurman Ring
3. Everything from Evelyn Henson's Etsy Shop
4. I'm loving these new NARS Audacious Lipsticks
5. Any candle I can get my hands on!

5. Favorite quote? 

This is a hard one, have you seen my 'Words to Live By' Pinterest board? I think my favorite that really hits home is "when you love what you have, you have everything you need."

xoxo

PS

Happy Friday + Links

1. Get smarter with these 10 daily habits (I'm trying #4)

2. I love this term "gracious living"

3. I'm so excited to read Shauna Niequist's new book Savor coming out in March

4. How to stay informed

5. This ring from Kendra Scott is my latest obsession

6. Atlantic-Pacific is rocking my favorite trend for Fall - Long Vest

7. Fashion Week street style looks that you can easily recreate

8. I need this Clare V duffle for Fall

A few more links:
 Thank you Chicago Blogger Network for the Member Love this week
Check out WhatRUWearing's 5 trends from New York Fashion Week on Windy City Blogger Collective

Around Town:
Join me with WhatRUWearing and Garnish & Glam on Monday for a Fall Fashion Show!
Experience a night filled with culinary art, cocktail art, music, and a live painting experience with Three Gentleman on Thursday, September 18. 

A few things you may have missed...
What I'm Reading Now: Wear and Why
Tasty Tuesday: Tuna & Chickpea Salad
Weekly Pick: Falling for Fall
Fab 5: Etsy Finds

xoxo

PS

Fab 5: Etsy Finds

Plate & Pencil wine tote
 Alexis Mattox Designs laser cut gift tags

Arajera big dipper ear pins

Junghwa hand stamped "I Am The Boss" necklace

Patti Murphy Boutique small desk print

xoxo

PS

Weekly Pick: Falling for Fall

Fall officially starts on September 23 so I'm prepping my wardrobe with some chic accessories from Shopbop. What's on your Fall wish list?

This Cambridge Satchel in oxblood (the "it" color for Fall) with calfhair pocket is totally on trend.

Fall is the perfect season to layer so this 10 Crosby Derek Lam long sleeve crop top sweater is a great option.

These Sam Edelman booties are a must-have for your Fall wardrobe.

I'm loving menswear inspired accessories and this Michael Kors watch is right on trend.

Stay warm on those chilly Fall mornings with these chic Diane von Furstenberg gloves.

I'm obsessed with these Stella McCartney sunglasses with tortoiseshell accents.

xoxo

PS

Project Soiree occasionally receives vendor/brand sponsorships for mentioning their products and services. All opinions are 100% my own.

Tasty Tuesday: Tuna and Chickpea Salad

For a satisfying (and healthy) lunch I'm all about this Tuna and Chickpea Salad. This salad is fresh and super easy to make which is why it's perfect for a quick lunch or a side salad with your main meal. Enjoy!

Ingredients:
6 oz canned tuna in olive oil (drained)
14 oz canned chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
Cherry tomatoes (diced)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
Edamame (optional)
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions:
Add the tuna, chickpeas, tomatoes and edamame in a bowl. In a jar (with a lid) add the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, salt and pepper and shake well to combine. Toss the dressing with the salad to combine.

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Wear and Why

Today I'm excited to feature Nika from Wear and Why! Nika has an amazing sense of style and she features her two favorite things - Chicago & Fashion on her blog Wear and Why. Check out her blog for some great style inspiration!

 

Get to know Nika:

1. What are you currently reading?
Super nerdy but the last book in the Game of Thrones series - fell in love with the show and had to pick up the books! Last book right before Game of Thrones: Where'd You Go, Bernadette? - I recommend this book to EVERYONE!  

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?
Right now? by far, Nico Osteria - any of Paul Kahan's restaurants, really!

Favorite recipe: my boyfriend's (Greg - thewatcherchicago.com) Green monster breakfast smoothie.... the best! 

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?

Having the opportunity to write! Best creative outlet and avenue for stress relief. 

4. Five things on your wish list?

1. Céline Trio cross body bag
2. Anya Hindmarch - Travel Folio
3. Reiko Kaneko Lip Tease Mug
4. Gianvito Rossi, Ladder-Strap Mary Jane Pumps
5. A Reformation Dress...I wish I was tall enough!!!! 

5. Favorite Quote?

"You can never be overdressed or overeducated." - Oscar Wilde

xoxo

PS

Tasty Tuesday: Restaurants On My Radar

There are some pretty amazing restaurants that have recently opened or scheduled to open this Fall in Chicago. Here is a little list of restaurants I'm looking forward to checking out.

1. RPM Steak

As a vegetarian you might wonder why I'm looking forward to eating at RPM Steak, but Giuliana and Bill Rancic are behind this so it has to be amazing. As they recently opened I've heard great reviews so let me know if you go!

2. Shake Shack
Shake Shack is a New York favorite and I'm thrilled to hear two locations are opening in Chicago soon. Can't wait!

3. Graeter's Ice Cream
My sister got me hooked on Grater's Ice Cream so when I heard they were expanding to Chicago I was overjoyed. No word yet on when they will open or where but rain or shine I'll be there on opening day.

4. Umami Burger
The LA based Umami Burger is set to open their first Chicago location in Wicker Park very soon. I've heard amazing things about Umami Burger so I'm excited to check it out.

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: A Squared

I'm excited to introduce you to Anne from A Squared today! A Squared is one of my go-to food blogs for delicious recipes and amazing reviews on the hottest restaurants in Chicago. If you're looking for a new recipe or a great restaurant to check out stop by A Squared!

Get to know Anne:

1. What are you currently reading? 

I have just cracked open The Last Letter From Your Lover by Jojo Moyes. I couldn't put her book Me Before You down, so I am really excited about this one too!

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant? 

My favorite recipe is one for Chicken Divan-- it's an old school casserole that my mom made all the time when I was a kid and I have always loved it. I redid the recipe to incorporate real/healthier ingredients and the flavor is even better. It also makes a great Broccoli Divan if you leave out the chicken and double the broccoli!

A favorite restaurant in Chicago is so hard to choose and I definitely go through phases of which ones I like best. Italian food has my heart though and a dinner at Balena is still one of the best I have ever had.

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging? 

So many things! I love meeting other bloggers because they are such a fun and interesting group of (mostly) ladies. And having a creative outlet and a place to connect with brands I love and people that love food is just amazing.

4. Five things on your wish list?

1. A spiralizer. I'm seeing spiralized veggie recipes on food blogs everywhere and I am dying to get one!
2. Jack Rogers Navajo sandals. I've been toying with buying a pair for 2 summers now.
3. A statement light fixture for my bedroom. We finally bought a condo and I am totally wrapped up in designing it.
4. A Vitamix. It's such a cliche food blogger thing to want... but I still do.
5. A Golden Retriever puppy. No joke. We've been talking about getting a puppy forever and now that we own a place, I think it's time.

5. Favorite quote? 

“It's a funny thing about life. If you refuse to settle for anything less than the best, that's what it will give you." — W. Somerset Maugham

xoxo

PS