Giveaway: Modern Myrtle Apron

As you may or may not know, I love aprons. I found Modern Myrtle not too long ago and fell in love. I want to wear them because I think they look so figure-friendly! This one is beautiful.

Modern Myrtle also has great items for your home - like shower curtains, towels, and table cloths. I would love some of these items in my home. So nice to have something unique rather than haveing someone walk in and say, "Oh I have that too, Ikea?"

"There's more than one reason our grandmothers wore aprons. Beyond being functional , they are just plain fun to wear! The Leah Apron is a favorite for it's flirty, girly silhouette. This apron ties at the back and neck, and is 30" long (not including the ties). This particular Leah Apron is made with fabrics from Amy Butler's Midwest Modern 2 line, in colors of gold, burgundy, and pink."

Joni from Modern Myrtle specializes in custom made items to help you reflect your own personal style in your modern home.  You can see all of her work in her Etsy shop, and on her blog.  Mention this giveaway and receive free shipping on your order through the month of May!

Lucky Duck! One of you will win this beautiful golden apron! (I'm a little jealous.)

To win, leave a comment on this post by 11:59pm, Monday, May 3rd to enter.


For extra entries: (leave a new comment for each entry.)
1. Tweet, Facebook or Blog about and link back to this giveaway. (post the link to verify)
2. Add the Redhead Recipes button to your sidebar. (post link to verify)
3. Become a follower of Redhead Recipes.
4. Become a fan of Redhead Recipes (with name to verify)


Sorry, this giveaway is now closed. To see the winner click here.  

White (Pink) Chocolate Mousse

In honor of fighting cancer, I thought I would post a pink recipe in my new cute pink glasses.

White (Pink) Chocolate Mousse
1 cup white chocolate chips
2 egg yolks
2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream, plus 1 cup
3-4 drops red food coloring

In a large glass bowl, place the chopped white chocolate and set aside.
Add the egg yolks and sugar to a small bowl and whisk until pale in color.
In a saucepan, over low heat, bring 1/4 cup of the cream to a simmer, and slowly add the cream into the yolk and sugar mixture to temper. Pour the creamy mixture back into pan and stir with a wooden spoon until it coats the back of it.
Pour hot mix into a fine mesh sieve placed directly over bowl with the chopped chocolate. Stir until completely smooth. Add red food coloring.
In another bowl, whip remaining 1 cup of the cream to almost stiff peaks. Fold half the whipped cream into the white chocolate mix to lighten and then fold in the remaining whipped cream.
Spoon the white chocolate mousse into 4 serving cups and refrigerate until set, approximately 1 hour.
Serve with sliced strawberries, or other berry of your choice.

Help Whip Cancer!

Cancer stinks. I have seen far too many people suffer from the effects of it - whether from their own diagnosis or that of a family members. We have it in our family. If I had an extra billion dollars hanging around, I would give it to Cancer research. Far too many people have suffered because of it.

Pampered Chef is doing a great campaign in May and I wanted to give you a little preview. In honor of Mother's Day, they want us to celebrate the women in our lives, and help cure cancer. As we know, Pampered Chef has some great products; but starting in May, they have some products that will "Help Whip Cancer!"

(I love the name!) For every product you buy, Pampered Chef donates money to the American Cancer Society. More money = more research = moving closer to a cure.

These Pink & White Dots Martini Glasses are just one of the adorable products you can buy to Help Whip Cancer!
My Pink Chocolate Mousse (in honor of the campaign) is setting up in the fridge as we speak (read, write, whatever). I will be posting the recipe later today!

Pampered Chef sent me a sample of their products so I could help promote their campaign. I was honored to help promote such a wonderful cause!

Giveaway: NstarStudio

As you know, I am getting more excited about picnics. I love these cute Picnic Roll-Ups I found on etsy. NstarStudio also has some great bags, coasters, and other beautiful handmade items - check them out!

"Nicky of NStarStudio is committed to elegant design and excellent craftsmanship in all that she does. She crafts every piece, one at a time, composed with skill and style. She is also willing to do change the colors to match your style!"

Now you have no excuse to not go on a picnic, NStarStudio is giving away this adorable Urban Picnic Roll-Up! 

Please comment on this post by 11:59pm, Friday, April 30th to enter.
For extra entries: (leave a new comment for each entry.)
1. Tweet, Facebook or Blog about and link back to this giveaway. (post the link to verify)
2. Add the Redhead Recipes button to your sidebar. (post link to verify)
3. Become a follower of Redhead Recipes.
4. Become a fan of Redhead Recipes (with name to verify)

Sorry this giveaway is now closed. To see the winner click here.

Giveaway: Mimiware

I had a lot of fun recently searching etsy for fun products. I was impressed with the look of Mimiware. Everything is beautifully hand-painted.

"Color and pattern makes Michele of Mimiware happy and she tries to incorporate as much as possible on each piece. Each piece is hand-painted making them one of a kind. She offers a variety of items, primarily for the kitchen. If you don't find one the color of your kitchen, she is always up for a custom request.
If you are ever in the Salt Lake City area, Michelle loves painting furniture, especially for kids."

Lucky you! Michele is giving away this adorable salt and pepper set!

Please comment on this post by 11:59pm, Friday, April 30th to enter.
For extra entries: (leave a new comment for each entry.)
1. Tweet, Facebook or Blog about and link back to this giveaway. (post the link to verify)
2. Add the Redhead Recipes button to your sidebar. (post link to verify)
3. Become a follower of Redhead Recipes.
4. Become a fan of Redhead Recipes (with name to verify)

Sorry this giveaway is now closed. To see the winner click here.

Sweet Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

Again, I am kind of cheating. But, this recipe was new to me. And it's tasty - so I think you'll forgive me.
I am a fan of all Latin foods. There is a local restaurant that has these Shrimp Tacos with a mango salsa that I quite like. Only thing is, I am a little too cheap to buy them every time I want them (which can be fairly often). So I decided to make them myself. Plus, it is probably healthier and better tasting.

Sweet Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

Shrimp:
about 1 lb of shrimp, peeled, deveined, and dried
3 Tbsp butter
3 Tbsp honey
salt and pepper

Salsa:

2 ripe mangoes, diced
1/2 large red onion, diced
1 large tomato, seeded and diced
handful of cilantro, chopped
1 jalapeno, seeds and veins removed, diced small
salt and pepper
juice of 1 large lime (about 1/4 cup)
For salsa: combine all ingredients in a bowl. Taste test, adjust seasonings.
For shrimp: Melt butter and honey in fry pan. Toss in shrimp, season with salt and pepper. Cook until just pink. Place in warmed corn tortillas with mango salsa and shredded green cabbage if desired.
Serves 4-5 with leftover salsa.

Enjoy!

This salsa is great on any protein - chicken, fish, pork. Plus, there will be leftovers to have with chips as well.

Tip:
If you want mild salsa - remove veins and seeds from jalapeno, for medium - remove half, for hot - leave it all.

Pinky's Pots Winner

Congratulations to Andi Fitz! Email me with your contact information and we will get this beautiful bowl to you as soon as possible.

SparklePaw Winner

Congratulations to Melissa B.! Email me within 48 hrs to claim your prize!

Product Review: ePicnicBaskets

As I said in the last post, today is National Picnic Day! So I hope you are all planning on having a picnic. If it is stormy where you are, lay a picnic blanket in the family room and sit on the floor. Your kids will probably eat more because it is a fun environment!
ePicnicBaskets sent me this basket a few weeks ago and we were so excited when the weather got warmer. The first day possible, I packed up dinner and we headed out the door!

This basket was perfect. It held all our food with plenty of extra room. For dinner I packed declicious hoagie sandwiches (if I do say so myself), oranges, and a Picnic-Friendly Potato Salad. I love that the basket comes with silverware, plates, and a salt a pepper set. That way we don't have to use paper and be a little harder on the environment. If even comes with those adorable napkins. I can't wait to use this with my husband for a romantic date up in the canyon this summer.

ePicnicBaskets have a great selection of traditional baskets, picnic backpacks (great for summer hikes) and tons of other cool picnic accessories - check them out!

Picnic Friendly Potato Salad

Today is National Picnic Day! I hope the weather where you are is less stormy than where we are. Go out and have a picnic!

I have never been a huge fan of mayonassie. And having potato salad with tons of mayonnaise is never appealing. Plus, mayo goes bad in the sun. Here a mayo-free picnic-friendly potato salad that is simple and delicious.

Picnic Friendly Potato Salad

2- 2 1/2 red potatoes
4 slices bacon
4-6 green onions
2 Tbsp red wine vinegar
2 tsp dijon mustard
2 Tbsp olive oil
salt and pepper to taste

1. Cut potatoes into large 1 inch cubes. Place in large pot and cover with cold water - about 1 to 2 inches above the level of the potatoes.
2. Meanwhile, cook bacon until crispy. Crumble or cut into little pieces.
3. Slice green onions thinly, using the white and the greens.
4. In a large bowl whisk together red wine vinegar, mustard, and salt and pepper. While still wisking, add in olive oil slowly. Add in green onions.
5. When potatoes are cooked, drain, and place in large bowl with dressing. Add bacon, stir until combined. Can be served warm or room temperature.
Serves about 4.

Tips: 

Leave the skin on the potatoes. Taste and looks better.
To cook bacon and avoid splatters and smelling like bacon for the rest of the day - make it in the oven. Place metal cooling rack on baking sheet. Place bacon on cooling rack and bake at 400 degrees for about 10-15 minutes, depending on thickness.

Don't Forget!

So tomorrow is our big Baby Shower at Noah's for the March of Dimes Teddy Bear Den. Please come by - even for a few minutes!

It's going to be a fun open-house style party for bloggers and non-bloggers alike, with lots of refreshments and TONS of great door prizes for those who donate something to the charity.  Please bring your friends, kids, and family.  It will be from 10AM - 12PM (open house style) at My Noah's in South Jordan (322 West 11000 South - directions below).

As you may or may not know, I am a L&D nurse. I have a love for what I do and am passionate about getting needed care to those who are less forturnate. It is a vicous circle - low income moms are higher risk for problems during pregnancy and birth. And high risk moms lead to high risk babies.
The Teddy Bear Den is such a great charity. They help to prevent birth defects by educating low income women about how to protect their babies prenatally. Women who successfully participate in the program (by getting prenatal care, quitting smoking, avoiding unhealthy behaviors before and after the birth of the baby, etc.) are offered baby items like diapers, wipes, baby clothes, blankets, and more. We're helping by working to "stock the den" with baby items.
 

So come over To Noah's tomorrow and bring something to donate. There are so many great door prizes you won't want to miss it!

Directions:  Take I-15 to 106th South. Turn left on 106th South.  Turn left on South Jordan Gateway.  Turn right on 11000 South. The building is on your right.

Next week, we have a virtual shower going on - everyone who donates (by purchasing something online and having it shipped to the charity) will have a chance to win something in our giveaway (with prizes from Shabby Apple, Marili Jean, Doodlekins, Minutes with Me, Belly Buds, Flowerz in Her Hair, Ulta and more).  Thanks to our awesome committee for putting this event together - and a special shout-out to Kate B. for rounding up MANY of the prizes (thanks so much Kate).

If you're interested in getting involved in the Service Soapbox blogging group, please visit our blog.  And if you've signed up to be a part of the Service Soapbox blogging group, please be sure to remind folks about this on your blog today - this is the point of the Service Soapbox - to do good stuff with our blogs - and it doesn't work unless we actually USE OUR BLOGS to spread the word!

Giveaway: Pinky's Pots

A friend of mine had one of Pinky's Pots - a pie pan to be exact. It was beautiful - truly art. And anything that combines art and the kitchen I am a fan. I was so excited when she contacted me, because I knew one of you lucky folks would be getting a beautiful piece of art. (I can't win on my own giveaway right? That would be cheating?)

One lucky winner will win this beautiful bowl from Pinky's Pots! 

"This beautiful serving bowl is completely hand thrown and glazed in rich golden caramel tones (breaking to tan and reddish gold flashes of color). This serving bowl can be used to show off green salads or hot side dishes.  The bowl is 9 1/2 inches wide at the rim and 4 inches deep. Microwave and dishwasher safe (glazes and clay are all certified to be food safe) Each of my creations are unique pieces of art that can be used to show off any table setting. Each piece is signed by the artist."


Pinky has a fun blog - you can see how she does what she does! Also, check out her shop to see what else is for sale. I am loving the Oasis Gravy Pitcher myself.


Please comment on this post by 11:59pm, Monday, April 26th to enter.
for extra entries: (leave a new comment for each entry.)
1. Tweet, Facebook or Blog about and link back to this giveaway. (post the link to verify)
2. Add the Redhead Recipes button to your sidebar. (post link to verify)
3. Become a follower of Redhead Recipes.
4. Become a fan of Redhead Recipes (with name to verify)

Sorry, this giveaway is now closed. To see the winner click here.

Dippidee Winner

Congratulations to Hannah! You lucky girl. You win 1 free dozen cupcakes from Dippidee! Please email me with your contact information.

*PS - to all you curious, or non-trusting: I was tired of taking screen shots and editing them, so I am just posting the name of the winner. I hope you don't mind.

Cranberry Salmon

I feel like this recipe is semi-cheating for this month's theme. But - it was new to me. My father-in-law tried a cranberry salmon dish at a local restaurant. I didn't see it or try it - but just thought I would do something similar.
I know cranberries aren't really the thing at this time of year, but I love them and stock up around thanksgiving and freeze them. They freeze really well. I have seen them in the freezer section at our grocery store, if you don't have a store of them in your freezer.

Cranberry Salmon

1 shallot or 1/4 red onion, sliced thin
1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 cup cranberries
1 cup orange juice
2-4 Tbsp sugar
1/4 cup toasted walnuts

In a small pot, saute shallots in olive oil until soft. Add cranberries, orange juice, and sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook until cranberries have popped. Stir and mash occasionally. Season with salt and pepper if desired.
Meanwhile, season salmon filets with lemon pepper and salt. Place under broiler for 4 minutes on each side. Dress with Cranberry Sauce.

Tips:
I like my salmon cooked Medium. If you like yours more well done then cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Try it more rare though - you may be surprised!

Restaurant Review: Sammy's

While driving down Center street in Provo, I have seen Sammy's and keep thinking, "i need to try that place!" It is pretty new and I didn't know much about it. But, I am always up for new things. I was super excited when Sam (aka Sammy) invited my family to come try out their food. He now has three more loyal customers.

Sammy's is located just of Center Street in Provo at 27 North 100 West. Not too far from the freeway exit for all you travelers who need a delicious lunch stop. They have a delicious menu of burgers and fries. 
 

I had Robi's South of the Border Burger. It was delicious. I love guacamole on any burger. But one that is cooked just right makes it even better. 

I also ordered the sweet potato fries - delicious! Some of the best sweet potato fries I have ever had. And Sam introduced us to a new dipping sauce - caramel. I know! But it is good!

While we waited for our famous dessert - we checked out the wall of fans. Hope I am not disclosing anyone's identity. But this place is covered with devoted fans - once we tasted the shakes, we had no question why!

Do not be decieved - that case is where all the magic is born. Pie. Yes a slice of pie goes into the shakes. To be honest, I was a little skeptical at first - but I am converted. Little peices of fruit and crust in each bite! Mmm. And don't worry - they don't blend it too much, you still get the texture of the pie.

Here they are folks. Mode a la Pie! We got half sizes to try more flavors - these are Apple Pie and Banana Cream Pie. Both divine. My favorite was Banana Cream - and I don't usually like Banana stuff.

And you can taste it!

Head over to Sammy's soon. Their famous Pie Shakes (what I call Mode a la Pie) are divine. But they also offer Cup shakes (with Sweet Tooth Fairy Cupcakes), malts and more. You can preview the dessert menu here.

Giveaway: SparklePaw Recipe Cards

While searching the etsy web, I found some very cute recipe cards at SparklePaw's shop.
I love using recipe cards because I used to print the recipe from online multiple times. Now I just file them away and pull them out when I need them. I also like to use them for gifts - give the ingredients and/or tools to make a dish, then give them the recipe to make it! These cards would make any gift cuter.

SparklePaw is an assortment of original illustrated greeting cards, pocket mirrors and recipe cards featuring friendly, happy animals and creatures.
"I am a mostly self-taught graphic designer - I love bright colors, cute animals, and adorable things inspired by my time living in Japan as a girl...I create my illustrations from scratch using Adobe Illustrator...I hope you enjoy my items as much as I've enjoyed creating them!"

Sparkle Paw is giving away a set of these cute Sea Life Recipe Cards!

Please comment on this post by 11:59pm, Friday, April 23rd to enter.
for extra entries: (leave a new comment for each entry.)
1. Tweet, Facebook or Blog about and link back to this giveaway. (post the link to verify)
2. Add the Redhead Recipes button to your sidebar. (post link to verify)
3. Become a follower of Redhead Recipes.
4. Become a fan of Redhead Recipes (with name to verify)

Sorry this giveaway is now closed. To see the winner, click here.

Cupcake Studio Winner

Congratulations to Brooke! Please email me in the next 48 hours with your contact information.

Review and Giveaway: Dippidee

Oh man. After looking at all these pictures, I am so sad I don't have anymore of these treats. They were delicious.
Dippidee opened 4 years ago. The name "Dippidee" holds true to its definition - "place of sweet surprises." Dippidee started from some great ideas and secret family recipes (seriously secret, all the manager wanted for her wedding was the buttercream recipe - she did not get it).
The store is quaint, unique, and delicious. They use top quality, local ingredients - but somehow maintain resonable prices.

Enough of jibber-jabber - lets look at some drool-worthy treat pictures.

This is just a sampling of some of their treats:
1 - Top selling soft Sugar Cookies - They come in all sorts of seasonal shapes and decorations. I usually don't like soft sugar cookies, these are delicious.
2 - Loaded Dippidee Bars - similar to a 7-layer bar. Rich. Yum.
3 - Heavenly Pieces - these are similar to a shortbread cookie with cream cheese frosting on top. I couldn't resist. They gave me two and I ate one in the car on the way home. It was worth the mess.
4 - Homemade Oreos - I am a sucker for these. Mmm.
5 - Brownie - Most of the frosted Brownies I have tasted, the frosting overpowers. As with everything else - Dippidee did not disappoint. These was a perfect balance.

We can't forget the cupcakes! All Dippidee's regular cupcakes are filled with a delicious compliment.
1 - White Chocolate Cupcake with Cream Cheese Filling and Caramel - You had me at Chocolate, Cream Cheese, and Caramel - Hello! This was one of my top 2 items.
2 - Red Velvet - I had never tasted red velvet before. I will probably go back for this again. Delicious.
3 - Vanilla Cupcake with Vanilla Mousse - sounds boring? Nope. This vanilla takes the cake. (Sorry, I couldn't resist!)
3 - Little Devil Cupcakes - My favorite. This is the devil because I have been craving it again since I ate it. This one is cut so you could see the filling (and so I could eat it before waiting to take all the pictures).

The store was very fun to visit. Great ways to decorate a box if you decide to be nice and share (I ate mine before they could wrap it cute). I love that they have a rotating variety. There are always the top sellers, but then  there is something new for people like me who want one classic and one new taste.
Oh - did I mention she makes fabulous birthday and wedding cakes. I wish I knew about her when I got married. I love this cake. Maybe for my 10 year anniversary we will celebrate big!

Dippidee did provide me with these delicious treats so I could let you know about them. But, they did not forget you!

Dippidee is giving away a dozen cupcakes to one lucky winner! So you can have some treat just like these!

Please comment on this post by 11:59pm, Wednesday, April 21st to enter.
for extra entries: (leave a new comment for each entry.)
1. Tweet, Facebook or Blog about and link back to this giveaway. (post the link to verify)
2. Add the Redhead Recipes button to your sidebar. (post link to verify)
3. Become a follower of Redhead Recipes.
4. Become a fan of Redhead Recipes (with name to verify)

Sorry this giveaway is now closed. To see the winner click here.

Heritage Makers Winner

Congratulations to Katy and Charlene! Please email me with your contact information.

Bake Sale

Hate that kids go hungry? Me too. Love baked goods? Me too.

Currently my kitchenaid is kneading some dough for my Rosette Dinner Rolls.

Want some? Come on over to Shirley J's tomorrow at the Bake Sale. Or head over to Dan's if you live in Salt Lake. (My rolls won't be there, but the good cause will.

For more information, check out the post here.

Giveaway: Cupcake Studio

Today's giveaway is something I found on Etsy - cute cupcake stands. Perfect to make a birthday extra special.

"Cupcake Studio is a small farmhouse studio in the Midwest owned by Tami B. She scours flea markets, auctions, thrift shops for pretty plates, sparkly baubles, vintage cookbooks, and more. Then up-cycles them into sweet cupcake stands, one-of-a-kind jewelry and handmade cards...her work celebrates vintage. For this giveaway you get a charming vintage pink rose saucer up-cycled into a cupcake pedestal. Perfect to use for jewelry, candy, paperclips in your studio or a single birthday cupcake."

Please comment on this post by 11:59pm, Monday, April 19th to enter.
for extra entries: (leave a new comment for each entry.)
1. Tweet, Facebook or Blog about and link back to this giveaway. (post the link to verify)
2. Add the Redhead Recipes button to your sidebar. (post link to verify)
3. Become a follower of Redhead Recipes.
4. Become a fan of Redhead Recipes (with name to verify)
* This can only be shipped to a US address
Sorry this giveaway is closed. To see the winner, click here.

Trying Celery Root

So for this month I was trying to think of new foods I wanted to try. I wanted to make a souffle - check! Success!
I also wanted to broaden my palate with some new ingredients. Today I tried celery root. Don't laugh at my description - the flavor is like celery but the texture is like a root vegetable (kind of like a potato when raw, but a little more on the chewy side when cooked). I did a little research about it. Most of the recipes I found had it mashed with potatoes. Sounds good. But I wanted to try something new. It seems most recipes were treating it like you would a potato, so I thought, why not make fries?
Here is my attempt.

 First, here is what it looks like. I couldn't find it at one grocery store, but another did. However, it was mislabeled... a few things were, they were probably rearranging things. I probably wouldn't have known it was celery root except for the fact that celery was growing out the top. Not all have this much celery growing out of it. Some have none.

Celery Root Fries

1/2 large celery root
1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp sea salt (or whatever salt you have)

Peel celery root, like you would a pineapple, and cut into thin matchsticks (Save your celery for a soup or snack). Toss matchsticks with olive oil, salt and pepper. (I like using sea salt because of the texture.) Place on baking sheet in an even layer. Bake in a 500 degree oven until soft, about 10 minutes. To make extra crispy, place under broiler for about 3 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serves 2.

My verdict: they were okay. Not the best thing. My baby loved them. The more I ate, the better they got. I would rate it a 6/10. I'd eat them if I had to, but probably wouldn't make them again. However, my baby loved them. Much easier for her to eat this than normal celery.
I think they would be much better as chips or in a mash. I saved the other half of my celery root - which should I make? Chips or Mashed?

Moufelt Winner

Congratulations to Ambre! You won the Moufelt Table Runner! Please email me in the next 48 hours to claim your prize. 

Giveaway: Heritage Makers

Heritage Makers is a great company to make any sort of photobook. I love that they have other great ideas and gifts like Decks of Cards (my card shark family would love that!), Canvas posters, and calendars. You'll find their quality and flexibility far exceeds other publishing companies.  Learn how easy and fun it is to create projects with Heritage Makers with access to over 50,000 pieces of digital art and more than 3,000 pre-designed templates.
Michelle, from Heritage Makers, is offering a free 12x12 scrap page for all those who contact her directly!

Michelle Falco
801-451-0752 or 801-529-6850 
website: www.bindandremember.com
email:  michelle@bindandremember.com

Michelle, must be feeling very generous. She is also giving away books to TWO lucky winners. One person will win a cookbook and the other a swatch book (or something of equal value. I love them both. Aren't they awesome?!

Here is a look at one of the many templates for the cookbooks. I love that you can put your pictures in. My sister and I were just talking yesterday how we don't like a cookbook unless if has pictures in it.
I think this would be a great gift if you have a mom or grandma who has a ton of great recipes. My mom put together a cookbook of my grandma's recipes and I use that book more than any other. And, if you don't have pictures of the food, put in pictures of your family cooking, or they have pages with out photo spots.

This wire-bound book is the perfect place to hold those favorite recipes you love! Add a photo of the cook to make it even more of a treasure! So easy to put together with several templates available in the Heritage Maker's Template Gallery. Measures 6" x 8.75" with a sturdy wire binding and wrap-around cover.  Comes with 21 pages but can expand to 50 pages.  Create a treasured heirloom that is sure to be enjoyed for years to come!

This is a look at the swatch books. I love them. I think I am going to make one for my baby. When we move away I want her to remember her aunts and uncle's, grandma's and grandpa's faces. 

 

Show off your latest family photos, Grandma's recipes, or Dad's fishing trip in a swatch book.  Designed with a protective cover and corner post, it's perfect to tuck in a purse, briefcase, or pocket.  This little book is certain to become a treasured gift or keepsake.  Several templates make it a snap to create!  Two sizes - 5.75" x 3.5" or 5.75" x 5.75".  You get to choose.  


Please comment telling me what you would love to make with Heritage Makers by Saturday, April 16th at 11:59pm to enter.
for extra entries: (leave a new comment for each entry.)
1. Tweet, Facebook or Blog about and link back to this giveaway.
2. Add the Redhead Recipes button to your sidebar.
3. Become a follower of Redhead Recipes, or tell me you already are.
4. Become a fan of Redhead Recipes, or tell me you already are.


Winner will be annouced April 17th!

Don't forget to enter other giveaways still open:
Moufelt Table Runner

Restaurant Review: Cafe Trio

I really have lucked out with the restaurants I reviewed this month. So far - some of the best food in Utah!

Cafe Trio invited my husband and me to try out their restaurant. I was super impressed. The environment was warm yet modern. I was impressed with the knowledge of the servers and the perfect timing of the food. And the food! Everything we ate - we devoured, or wish we could! So delicious. Here's a look at the food we ate.

Creamy Tomato Soup - delicious, tastes so fresh yet so warm. My husbands favorite thing of the night. 
Rosemary Flat Bread - with warm goat cheese, sundried tomatoes, roasted peppers, and caramelized onions. I think this was meant for me - this has all of my favorite ingredients. My husband wanted to lick the bowl (Don't worry, I stopped him, it is too nice of a place to put a bowl up to your face)
Mixed Green Salad - all the ingredients were such a compliment to the other. I was surprised at how much I liked the red grapes in the salad. Fit perfectly.

Baked Penne - a favorite for Trio diners. The chicken was perfectly cooked. I loved trying it. I would never get to make this exact dish at home because my husband won't eat mushrooms. Was a classic dish. Still thinking of the prosciutto in it.
Shrimp Risotto - this was a special for the night, but man! we lucked out. The shrimp was enormous and perfectly cooked. The risotto was fabulous. I am not a risotto professional - but this tasted perfect. Oh! And those leeks. I have never had leeks like that before - yum.
Apple Cobbler - My husband's favorite dessert. The apples were just how I like them - a little on the crunchy side. My mouth is still watering. Mmm. That was good.

Go try out this place. I think I may take my Mom for Mother's Day. Perfect for any lunch or dinner.
Cafe Trio has two locations:
Downtown: 680 South 900 East Salt Lake City, UT
and Cottonwood: 6405 South 3000 East Salt Lake City, UT 

Giveaway: Moufelt

I love felt. I just think the things you can do with it are amazing. I found Moufelt a little while ago and am amazed at the things they can make with felt! Check out their shop to see what they make!

"MOUFELT is an independent design studio started in 2007 by Jeanie Lai to explore wool felt and its endless design possibilities. Modern design is combined with one of the oldest known textile to create tactile fashion and home accessories for everyday life.
All products are handmade in Portland Oregon using 100% pure wool felt, a sustainable and renewable resource."

Moufelt is giving away an 11x40 table runner! The winner can choose between the circle or donut design and color from one that is in stock.

Please comment telling me your favorite Moufelt product by Wednesday, April 14th at 11:59pm to enter.
for extra entries: (leave a new comment for each entry.)
1. Tweet, Facebook or Blog about and link back to this giveaway.
2. Add the Redhead Recipes button to your sidebar.
3. Become a follower of Redhead Recipes, or tell me you already are.
4. Become a fan of Redhead Recipes, or tell me you already are

Sorry this giveaway is now closed. To see the winner click here.

Tapeswell Winner

Congratulations to Charlene! Please Email me within the next 48 hours, or another winner will be chosen.

Frida Bistro Winner

Congrats to Emily! Please email me in the next 48 hour to claim your prize!

Chocolate Souffle

So for my new ingredient/recipe/dish recipe I thought I would try a souffle. I have never made one before. The only one I have eaten was made by Jet Set (although that post was funny, don't be decieved, the souffle was delicious!). It was divine. But I decided to try out a chocolate one this time. I made it for our vegetarian-theme night for cooking club. Hey, they didn't say vegan. Honestly, I mostly made it for you.
For baking, I don't make up recipes. I haven't learned that science yet. I was a little nervous, to tell you the truth, about it. I hear they are hard and often people say they don't turn out. So, I turned to my best friend who is a pastry chef (who is currently on hiatus because she had triplets!) for tips and recipes. She gave me a few good tips, sent me to the internet for recipes, and wished me luck.

After searching the web, I chose this recipe because it used the same size souffle dish I had and I didn't have to buy alcohol for it. (We don't drink so I don't have it in the house.) I did make some minor adjustments, but I thought it was quite delicious. I hope you try it out - it was an adventure!

Chocolate Souffle 

adapted from George Duran
6 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped
4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
1 stick unsalted butter, cut into tablespoon pieces, plus more for greasing
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt, plus a pinch for the egg whites
12 Tbsp sugar, divided; plus more for dusting dish
5 large eggs, separated into yolks and whites, at room temperature for 30 minutes
1/4 c all-purpose flour

Put an oven rack in the middle position and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Butter a 6-cup souffle dish or casserole. Dust with granulated sugar.

Melt the chocolates and butter in a large bowl in a microwave-safe glass bowl in a microwave at 50 percent power for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring well every 30 seconds until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Cool completely.

Add vanilla, salt, and 6 tablespoons sugar. Add yolks 1 at a time, whisking well after each addition. Whisk in the flour.

Beat the whites with a pinch of salt in a bowl using an electric mixer at high speed until they hold soft peaks. Add the remaining 6 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating until the whites hold stiff glossy peaks.

Whisk about 1/4 of the whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten the batter, then fold in the remaining whites gently but thoroughly. Pour the batter into the souffle dish, spreading it evenly.

Bake about 30 to 35 minutes or until the center is still jiggling and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs adhering to it (It took me 35-40 min). Serve the souffle warm. 

* Tips: when folding the egg whites into the chocolate mixture be very gentle. The more you add, the more careful you should be. 

I served mine with fresh strawberries. A light dusting of powdered sugar would be very pretty.

Giveaway: Tapeswell

Have you heard about Tapeswell? Probably. I love their products. Look at some of the fun things you can do with packing tape! Plus, it is totally fun to just make an envelope or box special.

"TapeSwell makes the practical pretty and the old new again. Used together or separately, the labels, tapes and wraparounds let you put a personal touch on any box, package or envelope. Think of it as industrial chic and let your imagination run wild."

Tapeswell is offering one lucky winner a $20 gift certificate for their products.
Please comment on this post by 11:59pm, Sunday, April 11th to enter.
for extra entries: (leave a new comment for each entry.)
1. Tweet, Facebook or Blog about and link back to this giveaway.
2. Add the Redhead Recipes button to your sidebar.
3. Become a follower of Redhead Recipes, or tell me you already are.
4. Become a fan of Redhead Recipes, or tell me you already are
5. Follow Tapeswell on Twitter


The winner will be announced on Monday, April 12th.

Sorry this giveaway is now closed. To see the winner, click here.

Sweet Nature Design Winner

Congratulations to Valerie! Please email me in the next 48 hours to claim your prize!

Restaurant Review: Frida Bistro

Have you heard of Frida Bistro or Rico Products? Frida Bistro was new to me and is pretty new to Utah. It was opened last December by the owner of Rico Products. If you live in Utah you may notice some Rico products in your local grocery store.

Frida Bistro is an upscale Mexican Restaurant. They invited my husband and I to come try out some of their tasty dishes. Everything we tasted was delicious. Nothing would be sent back to the chef. In fact, I wish there was more. My only complaint was that we didn't try the desserts.
Frida doesn't burn your mouth with overly spicy foods, because they want you to be able to taste all the flavors. I was grateful, each flavor was complex and highlighted well.
Frida Bistro was truly some of the best Mexican food I have ever had. My husband, (who lived among Hispanics for 2 years) said the tamale was the best he had ever had. For lunch a dish ranges from $7-14. It is worth every penny!

Instead of chips and salsa they offered these palate cleansers. I wish I could remember what they were made of. The bread had tomato and the cream cooled your palate. The pumpkin seeds had a little spice, just to let you remember that you were about to embark on delicious, flavorful heaven.
We then had an appetizer of turkey mole and handmade tortillas. Perfect.
For our second course we had Poblano soup and a Biznaga and Beet salad (biznaga is  dried, sweetened cactus meat). For our main course we had a vegetarian friendly tamale - it was filled with the goodness of artichokes and asparagus. (And you know how I love those veggies)
Go try it out! So delicious. Trust me, you will be so happy you will "Make Love to you Food"

Oh did I forget to mention... Frida Bistro is giving away a $25 gift certificate to their restaurant! Yes, it is true. You lucky ducks!

Please comment on this post by 11:59pm, Friday, April 9th to enter. Sorry this giveaway is now closed. Congrats to Emily!
for extra entries: (leave a new comment for each entry.)
1. Tweet, Facebook or Blog about and link back to this giveaway. (post the link to verify)
2. Add the Redhead Recipes button to your sidebar. (post link to verify)
3. Become a follower of Redhead Recipes.
4. Become a fan of Redhead Recipes (with name to verify)

Sorry this giveaway is now closed. Congrats to Emily!

Pomegranate Vinaigrette

So an ingredient I have never tried before - Pomegranate Juice. Have you ever tried it. Seems to be one of the new hot things in antioxidants. I liked it, the taste reminds me somewhat of cranberry juice.

I was trying to think of something original to make with the juice, so I made a Pomegranate Vinaigrette.

In the salad was 1 large chicken breast (I just seasoned with lemon pepper and a little salt, then sauteed in a non-stick skillet), a few tiny bell peppers, about 1/2 c feta, 1 large tomato, and the vinaigrette. Pretty simple, but tasty!

Pomegranate Vinaigrette

1/2 c pomegranate juice (I used POM Wonderful)
1/4 c Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/4 c white wine vinegar
1/2 garlic clove, grated
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp salt
about 6 grind black pepper

Place all ingredients in a curette and shake shake shake. If you don't have one, just put it in a bowl and whisk. (If you are making my above salad, this is way too much dressing - save some for another yummy salad. Keeps well in the fridge. )

Don't forget to enter to win! Current open giveaways:
Sweet Nature Designs

*POM Wonderful sent me some pomegranate juice and asked that I make up a recipe using it. It was a fun and delicious experiment!

Giveaway: Sweet Nature Design

Today is the kick off of my "Hello, Spring Celebration!"
This "new product" is from Sweet Nature Designs. I found it on etsy. She has so many great products - fun napkins, towels, shirts, jewelry, and even art.

I loved using my towel to hang on my aprons to wipe my hands (although I almost feel bad because it is so darling), cover my dough while it raises, or just to hang in the kitchen for all to ask, "Where'd you get that?!" I love the cute, original spoon design.

Beth hand screenprints her items. I am totally impressed.

Beth has been so kind to donate on of these cute floursack towels of your choice. Check out all the varieties here.

"This all-cotton floursack towel is hand screenprinted with one of my original illustrations. Floursack towels are super soft, lint-free, and very absorbent...plus they dry faster than most other kitchen towels. Besides their many uses in the kitchen and throughout the house, they look good too! The design has been heat-seat and is ready for your use. It measures 20 x 30 inches and is hemmed on two sides with a finished edge on the other two sides."

Check out Beth's blog and website too!

Please comment on this post by 11:59pm, Wednesday, April 7th to enter.
for extra entries: (leave a new comment for each entry.)
1. Tweet, Facebook or Blog about and link back to this giveaway. (post the link to verify)
2. Add the Redhead Recipes button to your sidebar. (post link to verify)
3. Become a follower of Redhead Recipes.
4. Become a fan of Redhead Recipes (with name to verify)

Sorry this giveaway is closed. To see the winner click here.

Traditions

Before I start all the fresh and new items Monday, I wanted to share something that is important to me.

I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, LDS church, or Mormons. Twice a year we are able to watch through television, the beauty of the internet, or through the church's monthly magazine, hear the words of our church leaders. I love it.

Since I was little my mom made cinnamon rolls every 6 months when conference would start. We looked forward to it every April and October. Now that we are all grown, all the kids make them every year for our families. (And we will all argue that we make them the best.)

Check out the full recipes for the Cinnamon Rolls here.

Hello Spring Celebration!

I love spring. Everything is fresh, new, exciting. There is warmer weather (it will come, I have faith), picnics, shorts, kites, and pastel colors. I love all the produce that is in season.

To celebrate the new season (and finishing my final), all this month I will be sharing new recipes, products, restaurants, etc.

Now, these things may not be new in general, but they are new to me. There will be some great giveaways, reviews, and tasty treats for you to try.

For the recipes I am going to be making things I have never made before or use ingredients I have never tried before. If they flop, I will still share them, so you can learn from my mistakes.
We will be starting next Monday - so check back daily to see what is new and fresh that day! I am so excited! Are you?









image via

What's in Season - April

Hallelujah! My paper is done. Check back tomorrow to see how I am going to let you in on the celebrating!
Speaking of celebrating, I love spring! Some of my favorite fruits and veggies are starting into their peak season. Here are just a few of my favorites.

pictures via google images

What's in Season in April:

Artichokes - love them steamed with a little lemon butter to dip. So fun to eat!
Asparagus - try them roasted!
Endive
Kohlrabi
Leeks
Peas
New potatoes - perfect for Easter dinner
Radishes
Strawberries - delicious on steel cut oats, in crepes, and of course like this
Cherries
Mangoes - my all time favorite fruit. You can't find them locally grown in Utah, but just know that the ones in the store are at their peak. Try this Mango Salsa!
Nectarines
Passion fruit
Rhubarb
Tangerines, tangelos, other mandarin oranges

Also, if you want to see what's locally in season, check out this easy to use map