I just went to an opening of a NEW St. Louis Bar and grill in Keswick
I have to say what a great experience it was and not just because my good friends own it but because the food is really great. I had the philly cheese steak sandwich with sweet potato fries and my hubby had the ribs and wings with fries and coleslaw. All I can say it WOW you have to eat there!
This location was much needed in Keswick and I'm sure it will be busy all the time so you may want to go early or book ahead. You wont be disappointed.
The food is great, the service is impeccable and the faces are friendly
Let me know what you think and tell them you read this!
Thanks and Congrats to my dear friends Anna,Carm and Louis :)
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Ricotta and spinach crostata
This recipe is so easy to make you must try it. This recipe makes 2 crostata. You can eat them now and/or freeze after baking.
Crostata dough
2 cups all purpose flour
1 tsp sea salt
1/3 cup olive oil
1/2 cup more or less water
In a food processor add flour and salt.
Process to blend and aerate add olive oil and pulse until it looks crumbly then turn processor on and add enough water (about 1/2 cup)to make a dough.
Take dough out and knead by hand to form a ball and wrap in plastic wrap and let stand (rest) for about half and hour.
Filling:
2 tubs of ricotta
1 package of frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out all liquid
1 clove of garlic, chopped
2 tblsp olive oil
2 green onions diced
2 eggs, beaten plus 1 for glaze
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
sea salt and pepper to taste
heat olive oil and add garlic, saute for a few seconds and add spinach. heat through and salt and pepper to taste. let cool.
In a large bowl mix together:
Ricotta, cooled spinach mixture, 2 eggs, cheese, onions, salt and pepper. Mix all together.
Now its time to roll out dough. cut dough in half, flour your surface and roll 1 dough at a time to 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
You can make them round or square. Once dough is rolled pick up and lay on your parchment lined baking sheet.
Spread 1/2 of the cheese mixture per crostata and leave a 2-3 inch boarder all around.
fold over edge of dough over mixture very rustically all around.
Brush top of dough with beaten egg.
Bake in 350' oven for about 45 min until dough looks golden.
Serve warm or room temperature and can be frozen at this point for another day. Reheat in a 350'oven until warm.
Crostata dough
2 cups all purpose flour
1 tsp sea salt
1/3 cup olive oil
1/2 cup more or less water
In a food processor add flour and salt.
Process to blend and aerate add olive oil and pulse until it looks crumbly then turn processor on and add enough water (about 1/2 cup)to make a dough.
Take dough out and knead by hand to form a ball and wrap in plastic wrap and let stand (rest) for about half and hour.
Filling:
2 tubs of ricotta
1 package of frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out all liquid
1 clove of garlic, chopped
2 tblsp olive oil
2 green onions diced
2 eggs, beaten plus 1 for glaze
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
sea salt and pepper to taste
heat olive oil and add garlic, saute for a few seconds and add spinach. heat through and salt and pepper to taste. let cool.
In a large bowl mix together:
Ricotta, cooled spinach mixture, 2 eggs, cheese, onions, salt and pepper. Mix all together.
Now its time to roll out dough. cut dough in half, flour your surface and roll 1 dough at a time to 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
You can make them round or square. Once dough is rolled pick up and lay on your parchment lined baking sheet.
Spread 1/2 of the cheese mixture per crostata and leave a 2-3 inch boarder all around.
fold over edge of dough over mixture very rustically all around.
Brush top of dough with beaten egg.
Bake in 350' oven for about 45 min until dough looks golden.
Serve warm or room temperature and can be frozen at this point for another day. Reheat in a 350'oven until warm.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Thursday, November 3, 2011
What to do with left over breaded chicken
I had 5 boneless, breaded and baked left over thighs that I made yesterday along with 2 cups of cooked rapini(boil for 5 minutes, drained and sauteed in olive oil and garlic, salt to taste). After pondering how to make another meal out of that to feed a family of 4, I decided on pizza. Pizza dough makes a great base for just about anything and my family really loves pizza so I know a head of time this will be fantastic
5 boneless breaded baked thighs cut into small pieces
2 cups of cooked rapini, chopped
5 roma tomatoes, sliced in half, drizzle with olive oil and sea salt then baked 45 min in a 375' oven, cool then chop
1 cup of jar artichokes, drained and sliced
I made 2 pizza doughs quick rise method.
shape dough into a ball and lightly flour and roll into a thin crust. Lightly grease with crisco(dough never sticks when you use this method) a baking pan (I use a pampered chef baking stone, they are amazing) top pizza with all toppings, drizzle with olive oil and bake in 425' oven until bottom and sides are golden. top with grated mozzarella in the last 10 minutes of cooking if desired. Rustic and very delicious.
If you are making 2 pizzas at a time and using both oven racks you will have to switch the pizzas half way through cooking so that the pizzas will cook evenly.
4 slices were left over, so I guess some of use will be having pizza for lunch tomorrow :)
5 boneless breaded baked thighs cut into small pieces
2 cups of cooked rapini, chopped
5 roma tomatoes, sliced in half, drizzle with olive oil and sea salt then baked 45 min in a 375' oven, cool then chop
1 cup of jar artichokes, drained and sliced
I made 2 pizza doughs quick rise method.
shape dough into a ball and lightly flour and roll into a thin crust. Lightly grease with crisco(dough never sticks when you use this method) a baking pan (I use a pampered chef baking stone, they are amazing) top pizza with all toppings, drizzle with olive oil and bake in 425' oven until bottom and sides are golden. top with grated mozzarella in the last 10 minutes of cooking if desired. Rustic and very delicious.
If you are making 2 pizzas at a time and using both oven racks you will have to switch the pizzas half way through cooking so that the pizzas will cook evenly.
4 slices were left over, so I guess some of use will be having pizza for lunch tomorrow :)
Friday, October 14, 2011
Aged ground beef and goat cheese burger
I was given some lean aged ground beef from my cousin Pat Donato who owns The New Farm and traditionally raised quality beef from Donato Harvest Artisan Meat Farm in Tottenham. All beef and pork cuts are ‘AAA’, dry aged for a minimum of 14 days and hand cut on the premises.
It has a deeper more intense colour then the regular stuff I get at the supermarket so I figured the taste would be more intense as well so I thought the best way to try this was to make a burger, but not just a regular burger but one that deserved to be on a silver platter.
Here is my take on this specially cared for cut of beef:
To the 2 lbs of beef I only added some Montreal steak spice and fresh chopped chives, nothing more.
I formed 8 patties and set aside.
In a large saute pan add 3 tblsp olive oil and 1 medium sweet onion sliced 1 tsp of Montreal steak spice and cook until carmelized. Push to the side of the pan and add 2 cups of white mushrooms and cook until softened and then mix together with the onions. Remove onion and mushrooms from the pan and set aside. In the same pan bring up the heat again and add the burgers, cook for 2-3 minutes per side then place on a baking sheet.
Top each burger with 1 heaping
tbsp of goat cheese and put under the broiler to melt cheese slightly.
Top each burger with onion and mushroom mixture and put under broiler again for a few seconds to heat.
place burgers on toasted buns and top with Presidents choice Smokin' Stampede Beer and Chipotle sauce and serve.
OMG it is sooo good. Buy local,buy fresh and support your community.
It has a deeper more intense colour then the regular stuff I get at the supermarket so I figured the taste would be more intense as well so I thought the best way to try this was to make a burger, but not just a regular burger but one that deserved to be on a silver platter.
Here is my take on this specially cared for cut of beef:
To the 2 lbs of beef I only added some Montreal steak spice and fresh chopped chives, nothing more.
I formed 8 patties and set aside.
In a large saute pan add 3 tblsp olive oil and 1 medium sweet onion sliced 1 tsp of Montreal steak spice and cook until carmelized. Push to the side of the pan and add 2 cups of white mushrooms and cook until softened and then mix together with the onions. Remove onion and mushrooms from the pan and set aside. In the same pan bring up the heat again and add the burgers, cook for 2-3 minutes per side then place on a baking sheet.
Top each burger with 1 heaping
tbsp of goat cheese and put under the broiler to melt cheese slightly.
Top each burger with onion and mushroom mixture and put under broiler again for a few seconds to heat.
place burgers on toasted buns and top with Presidents choice Smokin' Stampede Beer and Chipotle sauce and serve.
OMG it is sooo good. Buy local,buy fresh and support your community.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Turkey after Thanksgiving
Turkey after thanksgiving is always on sale so why not take advantage of the deals. I bought a fresh whole d-boned turkey breast just after thanksgiving for a lot less and what I did was turn it into a roast.
I like to brine my turkey, it makes for a tender juicy bird and I use the same technique for the breast and believe me it is so tender that it can be cut with a fork.
1- 1 butterflied Turkey breast with skin washed in cold water.
2- To make brine use a very large bowl fill
1/3 with water,
1/4 cup of kosher sea salt
1/4 cup brown sugar.
Mix until dissolved then submerge the breast and top with water until the turkey is covered. Cover bowl with plastic wrap place in fridge for 6 hours or so.
3- remove breast from brine, rinse and pat dry with paper towels and lay flat skin side down and prepare rub.
4- In a medium bowl add:
1/2 cup room temperature butter(I used Becel margarine)
5-6 fresh sage leaves, chopped
1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves, chopped
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp fresh ground black pepper
1 tsp chopped garlic
you can also add any of your favorite herbs and spices such as rosemary,pepper flakes, lemon, parsley etc
5- mix together all herbs and spices into butter and with you hands spread 1/2 of the mixture onto the inside part of the turkey breast. Wash your hands and begin to roll all the to end and place cut side on the bottom and begin to tie with kitchen twine. (I pre-cut my twine to make things easier) Depending on the size of the breast make your ties about 2 inches apart and 1 lengthwise to tie it all together and place on a wire cooking rack and then on wide rim pan to catch juices. Then rub remaining butter all over the breast. Just remember do not add salt.
6- Pre heat oven to 375' and place turkey in oven and tent lightly with an sheet of aluminum foil. Bake for about 2 hours then remove foil and begin to baste every 10 min for 1/2 hour or so until the skin turns golden brown.
7- Remove from oven and let stand for 1/2 hour or more before removing twine and serving. Because its boneless you can slice any size and use it for main entree, sandwiches for the week, soups etc.
If you have purchased a fresh turkey breast you can prepare and freeze before roasting for a later date, just wrap in freezer paper or better still vacuum seal. I like whole turkey but this is a nice change for white meat only eaters.
I like to brine my turkey, it makes for a tender juicy bird and I use the same technique for the breast and believe me it is so tender that it can be cut with a fork.
1- 1 butterflied Turkey breast with skin washed in cold water.
2- To make brine use a very large bowl fill
1/3 with water,
1/4 cup of kosher sea salt
1/4 cup brown sugar.
Mix until dissolved then submerge the breast and top with water until the turkey is covered. Cover bowl with plastic wrap place in fridge for 6 hours or so.
3- remove breast from brine, rinse and pat dry with paper towels and lay flat skin side down and prepare rub.
4- In a medium bowl add:
1/2 cup room temperature butter(I used Becel margarine)
5-6 fresh sage leaves, chopped
1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves, chopped
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp fresh ground black pepper
1 tsp chopped garlic
you can also add any of your favorite herbs and spices such as rosemary,pepper flakes, lemon, parsley etc
5- mix together all herbs and spices into butter and with you hands spread 1/2 of the mixture onto the inside part of the turkey breast. Wash your hands and begin to roll all the to end and place cut side on the bottom and begin to tie with kitchen twine. (I pre-cut my twine to make things easier) Depending on the size of the breast make your ties about 2 inches apart and 1 lengthwise to tie it all together and place on a wire cooking rack and then on wide rim pan to catch juices. Then rub remaining butter all over the breast. Just remember do not add salt.
6- Pre heat oven to 375' and place turkey in oven and tent lightly with an sheet of aluminum foil. Bake for about 2 hours then remove foil and begin to baste every 10 min for 1/2 hour or so until the skin turns golden brown.
7- Remove from oven and let stand for 1/2 hour or more before removing twine and serving. Because its boneless you can slice any size and use it for main entree, sandwiches for the week, soups etc.
If you have purchased a fresh turkey breast you can prepare and freeze before roasting for a later date, just wrap in freezer paper or better still vacuum seal. I like whole turkey but this is a nice change for white meat only eaters.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Painting tips for a cleaner look
Are you a DIYer? When it comes to painting yourself it can be very daunting to make it look professional. I have come up with a few ideas to make the job look as though a pro did it. I learned how to paint using my own house as my canvas, and let me say painting is the cheapest way to make the biggest impact on your decor. Painting for many years now I have learned through trial and error and I am going to share some of those tricks and techniques with you.
If you have stucco ceilings with a 3 inch smooth band around the perimeter it can be hard to get a crisp, clean paint line where the wall meets the ceiling so I have come up with this solution. Using a 2 1/2 to 3 inch angled paint brush, paint the wall colour up and around the corners and right up to the stipple stuff. Its easy to follow that line then the corner line and it makes the wall appear higher as it also gives a cleaner and more professional look. Two coats will do the job and no need to use tape.
If you have tiny builder grade baseboards and your not ready to replace them yet why not paint them out using the same colour as the wall. This will make them blend in and give the illusion that the wall has more length as well as it detracts you from noticing how miniscule they are. I do suggest though that the trim around doors and windows is a white or different colour to avoid the room being too monotone.
These techniques are great for homes that are being staged for resale because you only want to hightlight great features to potential buyers, so whatever you don't want noticed you'll want to blend out. Paint is a very inexpensive way to make the most impact. Also great for getting you buy until your ready to invest on higher end moldings and trim, these tips will make your rooms look better and have more appeal.
Here are some after pics using light and dark colours which both work well.
If you have stucco ceilings with a 3 inch smooth band around the perimeter it can be hard to get a crisp, clean paint line where the wall meets the ceiling so I have come up with this solution. Using a 2 1/2 to 3 inch angled paint brush, paint the wall colour up and around the corners and right up to the stipple stuff. Its easy to follow that line then the corner line and it makes the wall appear higher as it also gives a cleaner and more professional look. Two coats will do the job and no need to use tape.
If you have tiny builder grade baseboards and your not ready to replace them yet why not paint them out using the same colour as the wall. This will make them blend in and give the illusion that the wall has more length as well as it detracts you from noticing how miniscule they are. I do suggest though that the trim around doors and windows is a white or different colour to avoid the room being too monotone.
These techniques are great for homes that are being staged for resale because you only want to hightlight great features to potential buyers, so whatever you don't want noticed you'll want to blend out. Paint is a very inexpensive way to make the most impact. Also great for getting you buy until your ready to invest on higher end moldings and trim, these tips will make your rooms look better and have more appeal.
Here are some after pics using light and dark colours which both work well.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Check out and Rate this Home/Dorm Office – HomeSense Design your Digs Contest!
Check out and Rate this Home/Dorm Office – HomeSense Design your Digs Contest!: Check out and Rate this Home/Dorm Office – HomeSense Design your Digs Contest!
Saturday, July 30, 2011
My experience at the new Pickle Barrel Restaurant.
I have finally had a chance to visit and eat at the new Pickle Barrel in Newmarket. It has been in the making for some time now due to some sort of delay. I have been driving by it now since the opening with much anticipation to try it out.
From the outside it is very inviting with the perfect curb appeal. Its contemporary look and beautiful gardens in front are most certain to draw in customers. The inside is beautiful and relaxing with earthy colours of grays, browns and beige's. Very spacious, comfortable seating, everything was neat and clean. My waitress Sarah was very cheerful and friendly.
The menu arrived and it was a book. I was excited to see Rose Riseman had a special section in the menu book with her special recipes. I love all of her information on healthier choices so I have been following her on Twitter and TV appearances. After 10 minutes of looking through the book I finally decided what I wanted and it was the Basa fish with light panko breading, vegetables and brown basmati rice, it was perfect for my special diet needs.
So now! the place was inviting, the atmosphere was beautiful, calm and comfortable, I was very excited to eat. Staff was friendly, the menu large but I guess they are trying a new approach and it is well written.
The food arrived and the portion was big but plated very sloppy, the colours were all the same browny beige, with not much mouth watering appeal,then I tasted it. Lets just say I will never order that again, it was salty, heavily breaded(panko breadcrumbs should be light, crispy and flaky)it was fried and not very tasty at all. The brown rice did not taste like basmati and was overcooked, the vegetables were soaked in thick soya type sauce.
I am not one to complain in a restaurant or send food back I will try to eat what I have or not at all, but it does affect if I will return and give it another go. I am just disappointed because I really did want it to be my new go to place and really even though everything else was perfect, lets face it, its all about the food and being a cook and food blogger myself. I think that the way food is made in any restaurant especially a chain should be consistent in quality,taste and plating. I rarely eat at those famous fast food places but I must say no matter which one or where or how long I haven't had it, MacDonalds food is consistent and exactly what you expect every time. That is the product of proper training and high standards of protocol. That is something to learn from.
That's my experience, I love to hear yours.
Rose Arangio
From the outside it is very inviting with the perfect curb appeal. Its contemporary look and beautiful gardens in front are most certain to draw in customers. The inside is beautiful and relaxing with earthy colours of grays, browns and beige's. Very spacious, comfortable seating, everything was neat and clean. My waitress Sarah was very cheerful and friendly.
The menu arrived and it was a book. I was excited to see Rose Riseman had a special section in the menu book with her special recipes. I love all of her information on healthier choices so I have been following her on Twitter and TV appearances. After 10 minutes of looking through the book I finally decided what I wanted and it was the Basa fish with light panko breading, vegetables and brown basmati rice, it was perfect for my special diet needs.
So now! the place was inviting, the atmosphere was beautiful, calm and comfortable, I was very excited to eat. Staff was friendly, the menu large but I guess they are trying a new approach and it is well written.
The food arrived and the portion was big but plated very sloppy, the colours were all the same browny beige, with not much mouth watering appeal,then I tasted it. Lets just say I will never order that again, it was salty, heavily breaded(panko breadcrumbs should be light, crispy and flaky)it was fried and not very tasty at all. The brown rice did not taste like basmati and was overcooked, the vegetables were soaked in thick soya type sauce.
I am not one to complain in a restaurant or send food back I will try to eat what I have or not at all, but it does affect if I will return and give it another go. I am just disappointed because I really did want it to be my new go to place and really even though everything else was perfect, lets face it, its all about the food and being a cook and food blogger myself. I think that the way food is made in any restaurant especially a chain should be consistent in quality,taste and plating. I rarely eat at those famous fast food places but I must say no matter which one or where or how long I haven't had it, MacDonalds food is consistent and exactly what you expect every time. That is the product of proper training and high standards of protocol. That is something to learn from.
That's my experience, I love to hear yours.
Rose Arangio
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Creating an office space at home
If you run a home business or require a space to do work that you bring home from your job, then it might be best to have a room that you can convert into an office. Having a proper space will help to keep your work separate from the rest of your house. Different businesses require different amounts of space, however you can make whatever room you have work with the right storage and desk.
-Plan out what you need and draw a rough sketch with measurements then visit some storage stores such as Solutions and Ikea for ideas and products that will help.
-Choose paint colours that will be pleasing for you to work in for an extended amount of time.
-A desk can be a dining table if you don't want to use an office desk, but make sure your chair is comfortable and has back support.
-If you are lucky to have a room with a window or view then take advantage and face your desk so that you can glance outside from time to time, its great for eye strain.
-Use enough and proper ambient and task lighting for your needs.
-If you conduct meetings have extra chairs on hand for your clients to use.
-Add some art, accessories and textures to add personality and interest.
-Use your vertical space, floor to ceiling book shelves hold a multitude of storage. You can use nice boxes and baskets to keep everything neat and tidy.
-Keep a good work habit and don't let your office get cluttered and messy just because its in your home, always practice tidying up when your done for the day.
I work from home and converted my dining room for my office space. Its right at the front of the house by the front door which is great for when I have clients visit. I face a large window so I can look out at the view and also see who is coming. I use my dining table which is big and gives me all the space I require for looking at samples of paint chips, window coverings, fabrics and drawings. I love my office space, it's full of my personality and its a great space for me to work in for many hours and still feel good.
l
-Plan out what you need and draw a rough sketch with measurements then visit some storage stores such as Solutions and Ikea for ideas and products that will help.
-Choose paint colours that will be pleasing for you to work in for an extended amount of time.
-A desk can be a dining table if you don't want to use an office desk, but make sure your chair is comfortable and has back support.
-If you are lucky to have a room with a window or view then take advantage and face your desk so that you can glance outside from time to time, its great for eye strain.
-Use enough and proper ambient and task lighting for your needs.
-If you conduct meetings have extra chairs on hand for your clients to use.
-Add some art, accessories and textures to add personality and interest.
-Use your vertical space, floor to ceiling book shelves hold a multitude of storage. You can use nice boxes and baskets to keep everything neat and tidy.
-Keep a good work habit and don't let your office get cluttered and messy just because its in your home, always practice tidying up when your done for the day.
I work from home and converted my dining room for my office space. Its right at the front of the house by the front door which is great for when I have clients visit. I face a large window so I can look out at the view and also see who is coming. I use my dining table which is big and gives me all the space I require for looking at samples of paint chips, window coverings, fabrics and drawings. I love my office space, it's full of my personality and its a great space for me to work in for many hours and still feel good.
l
Monday, July 11, 2011
Monday, June 27, 2011
Garage Sale Missions
Having a yard or garage sale is a great way to de-clutter your home and earn some extra cash at the same time. Its very easy to accumulate stuff, we all do it, it's normal, BUT we have to get rid of things once or even twice a year so things don't get out of hand. Cleaning out your closets and cupboards should be done often so it doesn't become a horrible chore. Get the family involved. If kids are old enough they can be in charge of their own things and keep their earnings as an incentive.
The easiest way is donating, just simply put gently used clothing and household items in a bag and take them to your local goodwill and they will handle the rest.
Re-purposing is also good if you have things that you don't use maybe there is a way to turn it in something you will use again. Saves the environment and keep things from the landfill.
Having a sale is a great way to give a new home to your unwanted items and earn some moola at the same time.
Preparation when having a sale is a must.
1: Start a week before by putting all your items in one area of your home.
2: Group all like things together.
3: Price things individually or as a group with stickers(you can get them from the dollar store). Price things low if you want to get rid of them.
4: Put out bright signage the week before to alert passer buys and you can even post an ad in your local paper.
5: Set things up on tables in the garage the night before so you can just carry them out on the morning of you sale day bright and early. (people drive around and start looking for sales around 7 am)The early bird catches the worm.
6: Be friendly and be willing to haggle with people in order to get the sale.
7: Reduce whats left items by 10am because sales usually last only until 12 or so.
8: Donate left over things, so your not bring the clutter back inside your home.
9: Count your money and treat your selves to something like dinner a renovation or savings for a vacation fund.I just had one and used the cash to build a pergola in my backyard. I will post pictures when it is fully complete. It felt great to clear my space, make some money.
The after picture is above, what a difference it makes, for now I used dollar store mats that we nailed inside the rafters and are rolled up in the picture. I roll the mats up and down and tie them and are for added sun shade protection as we are west facing in the back and get a lot of sun at dinner time. In the future we will add something more permanent. My backyard has been in the making for several years, this being the final and almost complete project.
The easiest way is donating, just simply put gently used clothing and household items in a bag and take them to your local goodwill and they will handle the rest.
Re-purposing is also good if you have things that you don't use maybe there is a way to turn it in something you will use again. Saves the environment and keep things from the landfill.
Having a sale is a great way to give a new home to your unwanted items and earn some moola at the same time.
Preparation when having a sale is a must.
1: Start a week before by putting all your items in one area of your home.
2: Group all like things together.
3: Price things individually or as a group with stickers(you can get them from the dollar store). Price things low if you want to get rid of them.
4: Put out bright signage the week before to alert passer buys and you can even post an ad in your local paper.
5: Set things up on tables in the garage the night before so you can just carry them out on the morning of you sale day bright and early. (people drive around and start looking for sales around 7 am)The early bird catches the worm.
6: Be friendly and be willing to haggle with people in order to get the sale.
7: Reduce whats left items by 10am because sales usually last only until 12 or so.
8: Donate left over things, so your not bring the clutter back inside your home.
9: Count your money and treat your selves to something like dinner a renovation or savings for a vacation fund.I just had one and used the cash to build a pergola in my backyard. I will post pictures when it is fully complete. It felt great to clear my space, make some money.
The after picture is above, what a difference it makes, for now I used dollar store mats that we nailed inside the rafters and are rolled up in the picture. I roll the mats up and down and tie them and are for added sun shade protection as we are west facing in the back and get a lot of sun at dinner time. In the future we will add something more permanent. My backyard has been in the making for several years, this being the final and almost complete project.
Monday, May 30, 2011
DIYs must have this app
With so many apps available I go nuts when there is a really good free one that will actually be so very useful almost every day. My new favorite is The Home Depot app. A cousin of mine alerted me on this one, he knows how often I renovate and make numerous trips to home depot and so does he.
A must have for anyone and especially DIYs, this app has everything from A-Z. Numerous project videos so you can see how to, quick tips and Product demos. You can select the store of your choice and view products in stock with price lists. There is a handy toolbox with cool measuring devices and conversion charts, calculators etc. eFlyers and help buttons.
The most fun thing of all is the bar code scanner, my husband made a trip to Home Depot just to try that out. He was like a kid in the candy store, it was a funny site to see. No more notes on pieces drywall or 2x4s you can simply write your list on the same app.
Sometimes I curse at how fast technology is going because I have to keep up but then you get something cool like a helpful app and it gets exciting even for me.
Pass a great app to a friend and share the feeling. Thanks Paul :)
A must have for anyone and especially DIYs, this app has everything from A-Z. Numerous project videos so you can see how to, quick tips and Product demos. You can select the store of your choice and view products in stock with price lists. There is a handy toolbox with cool measuring devices and conversion charts, calculators etc. eFlyers and help buttons.
The most fun thing of all is the bar code scanner, my husband made a trip to Home Depot just to try that out. He was like a kid in the candy store, it was a funny site to see. No more notes on pieces drywall or 2x4s you can simply write your list on the same app.
Sometimes I curse at how fast technology is going because I have to keep up but then you get something cool like a helpful app and it gets exciting even for me.
Pass a great app to a friend and share the feeling. Thanks Paul :)
Friday, May 6, 2011
Setting the table for Mothers Day
Nothing says I love you more to a mom then taking the time to prepare a special meal with a place setting you have done yourself just for her. It can be as simple as a boiled egg and toast, a muffin or a bowl of cereal. The point is you did just for her. Here are some ideas to inspire you to pull this look together:
1 Mix and match plates, glasses, china and cutlery using your own flare depending on what you will be serving. Keep things simple if you have colourful accessories a plain tablecloth will work best. If the accesories are all one colour you can use a colourful tablecloth
2 Add some fresh flowers or even just a single bud,this will make the table inviting,any kind will do. If you don't have a vase use a glass or anything that will hold the flowers.
3 You can add a place setting card that you make yourself or small gift on the plate.Use your imagination and make it yours.
4 Make her chair special and stand out from the rest by wrapping it in a simple white tablecloth, I have a picture shown. I draped it over the chair and tied it in the back, it took 30 seconds and voila.
For all mothers in the world Happy Mothers Day!
Rose Arangio
1 Mix and match plates, glasses, china and cutlery using your own flare depending on what you will be serving. Keep things simple if you have colourful accessories a plain tablecloth will work best. If the accesories are all one colour you can use a colourful tablecloth
2 Add some fresh flowers or even just a single bud,this will make the table inviting,any kind will do. If you don't have a vase use a glass or anything that will hold the flowers.
3 You can add a place setting card that you make yourself or small gift on the plate.Use your imagination and make it yours.
4 Make her chair special and stand out from the rest by wrapping it in a simple white tablecloth, I have a picture shown. I draped it over the chair and tied it in the back, it took 30 seconds and voila.
For all mothers in the world Happy Mothers Day!
Rose Arangio
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Stage-ology
Staging Psychology- Study of the soul or study of the mind. Emotion,Perception, Attention, Motivation etc.
Home staging is the process of preparing a home so that it appeals to the majority of potentials buyers.
Resale homes are competing not only against each other but with Professionally Decorated New Model Homes and Suites. According to the 2008 National Association of REALTORS® Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, 87% of home buyer’s start their search for homes on the internet as an information source. The pictures they see there are first and sometimes the only chance to make that good impression.
Unappealing photos put homes at a serious competitive disadvantage and lead to the elimination of these properties from buyer’s viewing lists.
A potential buyer will compare your home to everything else they see in the market place. A staged home that is well cared for will leave a lasting impression.
Some people will make decisions based on the emotions and senses that they feel when entering a space. Their first impressions will be very important especially because this decision will dictate the rest of the tour. A bad first impression may lead buyers to focus on any negative features the home may have and overseeing all the good ones. Buying a home is the biggest investment that most people will make in a lifetime, a positive viewing is one that lets buyers envision their families living in your space.
By Rose Arangio
Home staging is the process of preparing a home so that it appeals to the majority of potentials buyers.
Resale homes are competing not only against each other but with Professionally Decorated New Model Homes and Suites. According to the 2008 National Association of REALTORS® Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, 87% of home buyer’s start their search for homes on the internet as an information source. The pictures they see there are first and sometimes the only chance to make that good impression.
Unappealing photos put homes at a serious competitive disadvantage and lead to the elimination of these properties from buyer’s viewing lists.
A potential buyer will compare your home to everything else they see in the market place. A staged home that is well cared for will leave a lasting impression.
Some people will make decisions based on the emotions and senses that they feel when entering a space. Their first impressions will be very important especially because this decision will dictate the rest of the tour. A bad first impression may lead buyers to focus on any negative features the home may have and overseeing all the good ones. Buying a home is the biggest investment that most people will make in a lifetime, a positive viewing is one that lets buyers envision their families living in your space.
By Rose Arangio
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Stage-enomics........Space sells, not clutter!
Staged Home’s Economic Studies by Rose Arangio
If you are paying attention to the economic indicators then you know that home sales have decreased. GTA Realtors reported that sales for April 2011 have slightly decreased then the same time last year.
Especially when the economy is rising you still have to compete. There will be fewer homes on the market as well as fewer potential buyers. Your home must be showcased to stand out from the rest. Statistics have shown that professionally staged homes sell faster and for more money.
A recent study has shown that 63% of buyers prefer to pay more for a house that is move in ready. Statistics show that the average difference in selling price over list price for a staged home is 6.3% vs. 1.6 for unstaged homes.
GTA REALTORS® RELEASE MID‐MONTH RESALE HOUSING FIGURES
TORONTO, APRIL 18, 2011 ‐‐ Greater Toronto REALTORS® reported 4,444 sales during the first two
weeks of April 2011 – a three per cent decrease compared to the first two weeks of April 2010. The
number of new listings was down by 21 per cent compared to the same period last year.
“Sales activity was quite strong during the first two weeks of April. If this level of activity is sustained for
the remainder of the month, we could see April transactions close to last year’s record result. Positive
economic news has kept households confident in their ability to purchase and pay for a home over the
long term,” said TREB President Bill Johnston.
The average selling price for firm deals reported through the first two weeks of April was $483,165,
representing a 12 per cent increase over the average price of $430,271 reported during the same period
last year.
“The number of homes listed for sale so far in 2011 has been below expectations. Market conditions
have tightened, resulting in increased competition between home buyers and accelerating rates of
average price growth,” said Jason Mercer, TREB’s Senior Manager of Market Analysis.
“The strong rate of price growth reported for the first two weeks of April should entice more households
to list their homes for sale. This would result in more balanced market conditions and more moderate
rates of price growth,” continued Mercer.
Spring is the best time to sell so get your house in the right shape. Show off your space not your stuff, that's what potential buyers are interested in.
Here are some before and after pictures of homes that I have staged for sale. These homes were sold within the first 2 hours of listing, for full price.
By Rose Arangio
If you are paying attention to the economic indicators then you know that home sales have decreased. GTA Realtors reported that sales for April 2011 have slightly decreased then the same time last year.
Especially when the economy is rising you still have to compete. There will be fewer homes on the market as well as fewer potential buyers. Your home must be showcased to stand out from the rest. Statistics have shown that professionally staged homes sell faster and for more money.
A recent study has shown that 63% of buyers prefer to pay more for a house that is move in ready. Statistics show that the average difference in selling price over list price for a staged home is 6.3% vs. 1.6 for unstaged homes.
GTA REALTORS® RELEASE MID‐MONTH RESALE HOUSING FIGURES
TORONTO, APRIL 18, 2011 ‐‐ Greater Toronto REALTORS® reported 4,444 sales during the first two
weeks of April 2011 – a three per cent decrease compared to the first two weeks of April 2010. The
number of new listings was down by 21 per cent compared to the same period last year.
“Sales activity was quite strong during the first two weeks of April. If this level of activity is sustained for
the remainder of the month, we could see April transactions close to last year’s record result. Positive
economic news has kept households confident in their ability to purchase and pay for a home over the
long term,” said TREB President Bill Johnston.
The average selling price for firm deals reported through the first two weeks of April was $483,165,
representing a 12 per cent increase over the average price of $430,271 reported during the same period
last year.
“The number of homes listed for sale so far in 2011 has been below expectations. Market conditions
have tightened, resulting in increased competition between home buyers and accelerating rates of
average price growth,” said Jason Mercer, TREB’s Senior Manager of Market Analysis.
“The strong rate of price growth reported for the first two weeks of April should entice more households
to list their homes for sale. This would result in more balanced market conditions and more moderate
rates of price growth,” continued Mercer.
Spring is the best time to sell so get your house in the right shape. Show off your space not your stuff, that's what potential buyers are interested in.
Here are some before and after pictures of homes that I have staged for sale. These homes were sold within the first 2 hours of listing, for full price.
By Rose Arangio
Friday, April 8, 2011
Friday, April 1, 2011
The power of colour, how does it affect you?
Did you ever wonder if colour can affect your mood? Well the answer is yes, that is why there are so many colours in paint decks. There is something to suit everyone in every culture. We choose the colours that we love when it comes to painting our homes, picking our clothes, buying cars,in foods we eat etc. Many businesses such as restaurants, special institutions, business corporations, grocery stores, schools etc all choose colours that will evoke certain emotions from people. You'll never see red in a penitentiary
A few meanings of some hues are listed below,
Red: All things intense and passionate, excitement, energy, strength, speed, heat, love, appetite stimulation
Orange: Energy, balance,warmth, vibrant, enthusiasm, attention demanding
Yellow: joy, happiness, hope, jealousy optimism, sunshine, philosophy, summer
Blue: peace, calm, tranquility, harmony, confidence, unity, sky, appetite suppressant,
Green: nature, environment, health, spring, good luck, fertility, renewal, envy
Purple: royalty, spirituality, enlightenment, nobility, wisdom, mysterious
Gray: security, old age, reliability, intelligence, solid, maturity, solid
Brown: earth, home, outdoors, comfort, simplicity, reliable, endurance
Black: power, sophistication, formality, elegance, wealth, mystery, fear, unhappiness
Can you imagine a world without colour, how boring! so take notice of colour and how it affects you when you walk into a room full of colour or look at a buffet table full of food or when you go shopping for new clothes and when you choose new paint colours for your home.
Infuse your appetites and spaces with the hues that serve your needs, show your personality and bring you joy!
Rose Arangio ..... Appetites and Spaces
A few meanings of some hues are listed below,
Red: All things intense and passionate, excitement, energy, strength, speed, heat, love, appetite stimulation
Orange: Energy, balance,warmth, vibrant, enthusiasm, attention demanding
Yellow: joy, happiness, hope, jealousy optimism, sunshine, philosophy, summer
Blue: peace, calm, tranquility, harmony, confidence, unity, sky, appetite suppressant,
Green: nature, environment, health, spring, good luck, fertility, renewal, envy
Purple: royalty, spirituality, enlightenment, nobility, wisdom, mysterious
Gray: security, old age, reliability, intelligence, solid, maturity, solid
Brown: earth, home, outdoors, comfort, simplicity, reliable, endurance
Black: power, sophistication, formality, elegance, wealth, mystery, fear, unhappiness
Can you imagine a world without colour, how boring! so take notice of colour and how it affects you when you walk into a room full of colour or look at a buffet table full of food or when you go shopping for new clothes and when you choose new paint colours for your home.
Infuse your appetites and spaces with the hues that serve your needs, show your personality and bring you joy!
Rose Arangio ..... Appetites and Spaces
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Make your bedroom, your retreat
Creating a bedroom retreat is what we all need. I see it time and time again where we will renovate every other room in the home and leave our master bedrooms looking like it doesn't even belong in the house. We all need a place to escape from whatever it is to relax and regenerate ourselves.
The size of the room doesn't matter, it needs the most comfortable bedding you can afford for a restful night sleep. Proper lighting such as ambient for all over general light, task for reading and mood lighting. Lots of Colours and texture buy way of paint, pillows, throws, accent furniture, art and flowers. Most important absolutely no clutter.
Create your own oasis and you will have a better day and nightzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.
before and afters
The size of the room doesn't matter, it needs the most comfortable bedding you can afford for a restful night sleep. Proper lighting such as ambient for all over general light, task for reading and mood lighting. Lots of Colours and texture buy way of paint, pillows, throws, accent furniture, art and flowers. Most important absolutely no clutter.
Create your own oasis and you will have a better day and nightzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.
before and afters
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Home party buffet tips and hints
Buffets are a great way to serve large groups of people and when having a party. When have a buffet at home you will need to create a place in which to set up your food. Depending on your space you can use the kitchen counter, and island or pop up tables. A good flow is important when laying out your items as you want to avoid confusion and direction. If you have the space keep table away from the wall to allow access from all sides but if not no worries.
Because there will be so many things and colours on the table, a plain table cloth will work best as you want your food to be showcased and not looked cluttered. To maximize your area surface using tiers will allow for more items and create visual interest as well. Tiers can be created by simply putting sturdy boxes or bowls under the table cloth to create various heights. There are also tier plate holders and stands as well a chaffing dishes to keep foods warm available to buy or rent.
The china, napkins and cutlery should all be in one are together, this will help guests to have a starting point and gather all they need and move along. Set up glass ware and drinks and desserts on a small table in another section to allow for free flow of the food table.
Use your own flare and discretion for the food placement but its best to keep things in a logical order such as napkins, cutlery, dishes, appetizers, main entree foods, sides, salads. Try to make foods that can be made ahead of time and warmed up before serving and use foods with lots of colours and textures so it looks appetizing.
Because there will be so many things and colours on the table, a plain table cloth will work best as you want your food to be showcased and not looked cluttered. To maximize your area surface using tiers will allow for more items and create visual interest as well. Tiers can be created by simply putting sturdy boxes or bowls under the table cloth to create various heights. There are also tier plate holders and stands as well a chaffing dishes to keep foods warm available to buy or rent.
The china, napkins and cutlery should all be in one are together, this will help guests to have a starting point and gather all they need and move along. Set up glass ware and drinks and desserts on a small table in another section to allow for free flow of the food table.
Use your own flare and discretion for the food placement but its best to keep things in a logical order such as napkins, cutlery, dishes, appetizers, main entree foods, sides, salads. Try to make foods that can be made ahead of time and warmed up before serving and use foods with lots of colours and textures so it looks appetizing.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Foods and Moods
Its amazing how just the smell of food can affect us. We don't all get affected in the same way,everyone has a different reaction to certain scents that fill the air. I like to think its like perfume, some are attracted to fruity and some to spicy, some to sweet etc. With the right aromas and combination's there is sure something to extract juices from our taste buds.
Entering a room filled with tantalizing smells along with the right atmosphere will immediately put us in the right state of mind to indulge in the ritual of consuming food and drink. Whether its breakfast in bed, a cocktail party, an intimate dinner or a family buffet, it's important to make it perfect. When its done right all of our senses become awakened. And who knows what else.
Rose Arangio for Appetites and Spaces
Entering a room filled with tantalizing smells along with the right atmosphere will immediately put us in the right state of mind to indulge in the ritual of consuming food and drink. Whether its breakfast in bed, a cocktail party, an intimate dinner or a family buffet, it's important to make it perfect. When its done right all of our senses become awakened. And who knows what else.
Rose Arangio for Appetites and Spaces
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
What's so big about a meatball sandwich....The taste of course
I love making sauce with meatballs because it adds so much flavor to the sauce. Paired with spaghetti, need I say more? I always make way more then I need because there is nothing better for lunches or dinner the next day then a homemade meatball sandwich topped with melted provolone on a crusty bun.
I know I'm supposed to be thinking spring time foods and I was until I looked outside this lovely March 23rd morning in Canada and I saw snow and it's cold. I immediately craved comfort food to get me through this chilly day. I do crave veggies too but I think I will have them steamed so they are warm as well.
Mushrooms, fried red peppers, Hot chilies mmmm, just some topping possibilities I'm already thinking about for tomorrow.
Appetites and Spaces
I know I'm supposed to be thinking spring time foods and I was until I looked outside this lovely March 23rd morning in Canada and I saw snow and it's cold. I immediately craved comfort food to get me through this chilly day. I do crave veggies too but I think I will have them steamed so they are warm as well.
Mushrooms, fried red peppers, Hot chilies mmmm, just some topping possibilities I'm already thinking about for tomorrow.
Appetites and Spaces
Friday, March 18, 2011
Picture perfect pizza
As a side,snack or a complete meal, I am always up for a good pizza. Baking pizza at home fills the air with mouth watering aromas and tantalizes the taste buds. If I ever put my house up for sale, I will bake a pizza before the open house.
You can choose the level of difficulty when making your own pizza. Begin with making the dough from scratch if you have the time or buying a ready made dough the possibilities are endless. White or whole wheat, a simple thin crust with fresh tomato basil sauce and cheese or hearty thick crust with loads of toppings, it's all good and up to you. There are a few very important things you need for a great pizza:
A really good dough,a tasty tomato sauce and a stone pizza tray. Anything you put on top after that will all taste good.
Eating it right out of the tray with a beer or served on white linens, fine dinnerware, candlelight and wine you can choose the ambiance depending on the occasion.
You can choose the level of difficulty when making your own pizza. Begin with making the dough from scratch if you have the time or buying a ready made dough the possibilities are endless. White or whole wheat, a simple thin crust with fresh tomato basil sauce and cheese or hearty thick crust with loads of toppings, it's all good and up to you. There are a few very important things you need for a great pizza:
A really good dough,a tasty tomato sauce and a stone pizza tray. Anything you put on top after that will all taste good.
Eating it right out of the tray with a beer or served on white linens, fine dinnerware, candlelight and wine you can choose the ambiance depending on the occasion.
Friday, March 11, 2011
What's better than chocolate, strawberries and champagne?
I love this dessert, it fulfills my every craving for something sweet and something bubbly. Easy to make and quick. all you need is chocolate and strawberries or I dip everything I can just to see what it will taste like.
The ambiance I would do here is super easy as well(if its dinner for 2) Just dim the lights really low and light candles, pop open the bubbly and enjoy your tasty sweet treats.
If its for more than 2 well then you can serve individually or put on a pedestal tray in the center of the table, makes for an eye catching center piece. I like to use small wooden sticks as handles on some. Get creative and use all sorts of toppings. Try using all sorts of fruits. Fun to make, but more fun to eat.
Yummy for sure, enjoy
Rose Arangio
The ambiance I would do here is super easy as well(if its dinner for 2) Just dim the lights really low and light candles, pop open the bubbly and enjoy your tasty sweet treats.
If its for more than 2 well then you can serve individually or put on a pedestal tray in the center of the table, makes for an eye catching center piece. I like to use small wooden sticks as handles on some. Get creative and use all sorts of toppings. Try using all sorts of fruits. Fun to make, but more fun to eat.
Yummy for sure, enjoy
Rose Arangio
Nothing is better than good food, great company and the perfect ambience
I have always loved to entertain and share great food and conversation with family and friends. Weather its dinner for 2, family, friends or large groups I look forward to the whole event. Planning the menu, setting the ambiance, cooking the food and the anticipation of the nights conversation. I have learned over time that having notes and finding foods that can be made or partially made ahead of time really eased the stress and allowed me to actually sit and enjoy the evening.
Step 1: Plan your menu. knowing what to make ahead of time eases pressure in preparation.
Step 2: My dinners are always in the kitchen so I like to have all the clutter and dirty dishes put away, that's an important step in creating the ambiance for my guests (I actually am so used to this that I exercise this every day dinners)It makes all the difference, I hate eating and looking a mess I have to clean. When a room is filled with clutter that's all everyone will notice, it detracts from the whole dining experience and I do see dinner as a very important time of day. For me, having family together every night and sharing food entices conversations of the days events or jokes or whatever.
Step 3: Have all the dinner ware ready on the table either set or in a pile depending on whether your serving casual or elegant. TIP: if your not using the table do it in the morning or evening before. The table set in advance lets everyone know dinner will be served in that room and it looks so inviting.
Step 4: Have your beverage choices ready. Information on pairing wines or beers with foods is available on the internet or books so doing a little research will help you to choose. If your guests offer to bring wine tell them whats for dinner and savvy guests will know what to bring.
Step 5: Not necessary for every day but a center piece always adds that extra something special, it can be flowers, candles etc, just make sure its not at eye level making it hard to see across the table.
Step 6: Don't fret, doing things at your pace will keep you calm and don't cook things you've never made before unless your really confident. I like to test new dishes in advance for my family first, which they never seem to mind.
Step 7: Make the dinner last a while, having time to digest between courses makes for a more enjoyable experience, or course that all goes out the window when rushing through dinner to take the kids dance or hockey practice.
Most of all have fun, life is short and there is nothing more satisfying than sharing special moments with people you love while eating good food.
Rose Arangio
Step 1: Plan your menu. knowing what to make ahead of time eases pressure in preparation.
Step 2: My dinners are always in the kitchen so I like to have all the clutter and dirty dishes put away, that's an important step in creating the ambiance for my guests (I actually am so used to this that I exercise this every day dinners)It makes all the difference, I hate eating and looking a mess I have to clean. When a room is filled with clutter that's all everyone will notice, it detracts from the whole dining experience and I do see dinner as a very important time of day. For me, having family together every night and sharing food entices conversations of the days events or jokes or whatever.
Step 3: Have all the dinner ware ready on the table either set or in a pile depending on whether your serving casual or elegant. TIP: if your not using the table do it in the morning or evening before. The table set in advance lets everyone know dinner will be served in that room and it looks so inviting.
Step 4: Have your beverage choices ready. Information on pairing wines or beers with foods is available on the internet or books so doing a little research will help you to choose. If your guests offer to bring wine tell them whats for dinner and savvy guests will know what to bring.
Step 5: Not necessary for every day but a center piece always adds that extra something special, it can be flowers, candles etc, just make sure its not at eye level making it hard to see across the table.
Step 6: Don't fret, doing things at your pace will keep you calm and don't cook things you've never made before unless your really confident. I like to test new dishes in advance for my family first, which they never seem to mind.
Step 7: Make the dinner last a while, having time to digest between courses makes for a more enjoyable experience, or course that all goes out the window when rushing through dinner to take the kids dance or hockey practice.
Most of all have fun, life is short and there is nothing more satisfying than sharing special moments with people you love while eating good food.
Rose Arangio
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Perfect roasted chicken and potatoes
I love roasted chicken. Its easy to make and delicious and leftovers are great for a multitude of other dishes. A basic roast chicken can be served in a rustic family style manner or super fine depending on how you present it.
Recipe:
1 roasting chicken-wash and pat dry with paper towels
1-2 tblsp olive oil
kosher salt
fresh ground black pepper
paprika
fresh thyme
4-6 potatoes peeled and cut
I like to put my seasonings in ramekins because I just season to my taste. If you are watching your salt intake just use what you think-less is best
after washing and pat drying the chicken put the thyme and some salt and pepper into the cavity and now its time give the bird a massage with the olive oil, this will help the seasonings to stick to the skin.
Place on a roasting tray, I like to line it with parchment and place into a 375 degree oven for about 1hour and half. Baste with it's own juices every 30 min (this will make it crispy and shiny.
If you want to add potatoes wash and cut into wedges, season with salt,pepper and paprika and put around the chicken half way through cooking (45 min). There is enough juices from the chicken to coat the potatoes no need to add any oil.
That's it, so easy all you have to add is some vegetables of your choice and serve.
My table setting choice would be "family style" using a large platter with chicken pieces and potatoes together. It looks so appetizing and gives people a choice of which piece and how much to take. Simple white plates and napkins will allow the food to be the focal point. Add some brightly coloured vegetables and bottle of white wine, some hungry people will be all you need.
Leftovers ideas: remove all meat from the bones and store for another day to make great sandwiches, soups or salads. If you love leftovers make 2 chickens at a time, that's what I do.
Recipe:
1 roasting chicken-wash and pat dry with paper towels
1-2 tblsp olive oil
kosher salt
fresh ground black pepper
paprika
fresh thyme
4-6 potatoes peeled and cut
I like to put my seasonings in ramekins because I just season to my taste. If you are watching your salt intake just use what you think-less is best
after washing and pat drying the chicken put the thyme and some salt and pepper into the cavity and now its time give the bird a massage with the olive oil, this will help the seasonings to stick to the skin.
Place on a roasting tray, I like to line it with parchment and place into a 375 degree oven for about 1hour and half. Baste with it's own juices every 30 min (this will make it crispy and shiny.
If you want to add potatoes wash and cut into wedges, season with salt,pepper and paprika and put around the chicken half way through cooking (45 min). There is enough juices from the chicken to coat the potatoes no need to add any oil.
That's it, so easy all you have to add is some vegetables of your choice and serve.
My table setting choice would be "family style" using a large platter with chicken pieces and potatoes together. It looks so appetizing and gives people a choice of which piece and how much to take. Simple white plates and napkins will allow the food to be the focal point. Add some brightly coloured vegetables and bottle of white wine, some hungry people will be all you need.
Leftovers ideas: remove all meat from the bones and store for another day to make great sandwiches, soups or salads. If you love leftovers make 2 chickens at a time, that's what I do.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Making pillows out of placemats?
While searching for bargains at a fabric store closing liquidation sale, I spotted 2 brown silk place mats for 2 dollars each. While Looking through ribbons and trims I found an entire bolt with about 10 meters of beautiful trim for a cost of $1.00. The place mats were perfect because they were double sided and had space in the middle for stuffing, you can check this by grabbing the center of both sides and gently pulling to see if it has this a cavity in between.
Step 1- using a stitch ripper gently open 1 end.
Step 2- fill cavity with a pillow filling
Step 3- restitch the side by hand.
That's it! You can leave it at that or add a trim to the edges. I went all the way around with mine because I had tons of it. Another suggestion is to just do the 2 ends. I use them on my bed as accent pillows.
Step 1- using a stitch ripper gently open 1 end.
Step 2- fill cavity with a pillow filling
Step 3- restitch the side by hand.
That's it! You can leave it at that or add a trim to the edges. I went all the way around with mine because I had tons of it. Another suggestion is to just do the 2 ends. I use them on my bed as accent pillows.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Create A Special Romantic Valentine's Evening for your Sweetheart
Are you the kind of person that loves to go decor crazy on every occasion? Some of us just cant wait for the next reason to spread the joy of love and happiness. If it weren't for these occasions life would be just too boring as far as I'm concerned. BUT we don't need to break the bank.
Since Valentines Day is quickly approaching and you want to make this evening memorable you'll need to do a few things.
Staging the room:
If your planning a romantic dinner for your sweetheart add some special touches to a room having a romantic table setting by using a long to the floor table cloth and draping a sheer fabric loosely over it, have helium filled balloons in reds, pinks and white, fragrant rose petals scattered on the table and maybe even on the floor.
Flowers for sure:
A beautiful bouquet in a vase on the table or a single flower on the plate or petals leading up to the table, any way you like it is the right way! Simple or extravagant, flowers say so much and come in many colours and price points. Use your imagination.
Setting the mood:
Lighting and music are your final touches and is very crucial. When you think romantic, its all about the lighting. Dim or turn off the lights. Add candles all over, the more candles the more romantic. Tea lights are very very inexpensive and last about 5 hours. Line a pathway, place around the room, on table, on a window ledge, anywhere you can think of. Candles create a beautiful glow and warmth to your room. If your lucky to have a fire place use it.
Now choose your favorite music and have it playing in the background softly.
(Please remember to use caution when using candles, never leave candles unattended)
OH! I forgot about the food. Well I don't think that's it's too important, even pizza will look great in a room like this. But for those of you that want to go all the way here's a recipe you can make. I was looking for something delicious, easy, quick and economical since I am spending time in staging my romantic room for the evening.
Gamberi Alla Romana / Roman style jumbo shrimp
using a recipe from Marinellisauce.com
Ingredients:
- 2 Tbsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
- 3 Garlic cloves, peeled & minced
- 3 Red Chilies, fresh or 6 dried
- 1 jar Marinelli’s Tomato & Basil Sauce
- 1 lb Jumbo Shrimp (uncooked), peeled & de-veined
- 1 cup Fresh Basil (freshly chopped)
- Pasta Noodles (Linguine / Fettucine)
1. Over medium heat, in a large skillet, add approx. 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the 3 cloves of minced garlic & chilies, gently stir & let simmer, stirring occasionally. (In the meantime add your pasta to boiling salted water.) After the garlic begins to slightly caramelize add the jar of Tomato Basil Sauce and gently stir.
2. Adjust heat to medium-high heat, add the shrimp to the sauce and cook until they are pink, flipping half way, (approx. 2-3 minutes each side.) Drain the pasta and add to the shrimp. Add the chopped mint or basil, gently toss or stir. Adjust salt & pepper to taste. (If you find the sauce a bit too dry you may add a bit of the pasta water for moisture, gently stir.)
3. Garnish with basil, add a drizzle of olive oil on top. OMG TDF
This dinner can cost under $ 35.00 with wine,salad and a some chocolate covered strawberries that's less than take-out and it comes from the heart.
My wine choice: XOXO Cabernet/Shiraz about $9.00
Enjoy, I'd love any comments or pictures :)
Rose Arangio
Since Valentines Day is quickly approaching and you want to make this evening memorable you'll need to do a few things.
Staging the room:
If your planning a romantic dinner for your sweetheart add some special touches to a room having a romantic table setting by using a long to the floor table cloth and draping a sheer fabric loosely over it, have helium filled balloons in reds, pinks and white, fragrant rose petals scattered on the table and maybe even on the floor.
Flowers for sure:
A beautiful bouquet in a vase on the table or a single flower on the plate or petals leading up to the table, any way you like it is the right way! Simple or extravagant, flowers say so much and come in many colours and price points. Use your imagination.
Setting the mood:
Lighting and music are your final touches and is very crucial. When you think romantic, its all about the lighting. Dim or turn off the lights. Add candles all over, the more candles the more romantic. Tea lights are very very inexpensive and last about 5 hours. Line a pathway, place around the room, on table, on a window ledge, anywhere you can think of. Candles create a beautiful glow and warmth to your room. If your lucky to have a fire place use it.
Now choose your favorite music and have it playing in the background softly.
(Please remember to use caution when using candles, never leave candles unattended)
OH! I forgot about the food. Well I don't think that's it's too important, even pizza will look great in a room like this. But for those of you that want to go all the way here's a recipe you can make. I was looking for something delicious, easy, quick and economical since I am spending time in staging my romantic room for the evening.
Gamberi Alla Romana / Roman style jumbo shrimp
using a recipe from Marinellisauce.com
Ingredients:
- 2 Tbsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
- 3 Garlic cloves, peeled & minced
- 3 Red Chilies, fresh or 6 dried
- 1 jar Marinelli’s Tomato & Basil Sauce
- 1 lb Jumbo Shrimp (uncooked), peeled & de-veined
- 1 cup Fresh Basil (freshly chopped)
- Pasta Noodles (Linguine / Fettucine)
1. Over medium heat, in a large skillet, add approx. 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the 3 cloves of minced garlic & chilies, gently stir & let simmer, stirring occasionally. (In the meantime add your pasta to boiling salted water.) After the garlic begins to slightly caramelize add the jar of Tomato Basil Sauce and gently stir.
2. Adjust heat to medium-high heat, add the shrimp to the sauce and cook until they are pink, flipping half way, (approx. 2-3 minutes each side.) Drain the pasta and add to the shrimp. Add the chopped mint or basil, gently toss or stir. Adjust salt & pepper to taste. (If you find the sauce a bit too dry you may add a bit of the pasta water for moisture, gently stir.)
3. Garnish with basil, add a drizzle of olive oil on top. OMG TDF
This dinner can cost under $ 35.00 with wine,salad and a some chocolate covered strawberries that's less than take-out and it comes from the heart.
My wine choice: XOXO Cabernet/Shiraz about $9.00
Enjoy, I'd love any comments or pictures :)
Rose Arangio
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