Chocolate Peppermint Loaf

Now is the time that I get to go from everything pumpkin to a mix of pumpkin and peppermint (though not together) before going full out peppermint. While perusing the aisles of Trader Joe's, I found this magical box...chocolate peppermint loaf (and yes you could smell the peppermint through the box!) One of my favorite flavor combinations, chocolate and peppermint is the epitome of all things Christmas. So even though I was collecting ingredients to make pumpkin bread, I was also going to snag a box of this to try and boy was I sure glad I did! The bread turned out to be fudgey and pepperminty without it being too overwhelming... and it didn't hurt that it smelled amazing while it was baking! This decadent loaf would be a great winter dessert or get together snack.

If you know how to mix, then you can put this together in flash. First you need to do is mix together water and eggs.  Then add in the dry ingredient mixture and the chocolate peppermint chunks. Pour the batter into a loaf pan and bake at 350 for about 45 minutes. It will be hard to resist this loaf as it cools, but it will be worth the wait. Be sure to grab this treat before it's gone so that you can get a head start on enjoying the holidays... there are only 7 more Saturdays before Christmas!!

The Magic of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a wonderful product that has so many uses. I have been using it in recipes for a while, but was told about this coconut oil spray from Trader Joe's. Coconut oil is one of the best oils that you can use and doesn't make food greasy which can sometimes happen with olive oil. This light spray doesn't just as well as any cooking spray or olive oil spray. However, it smells absolutely amazing when it cooks. I have used it with sweet and savory dishes, so don't think that you can only use it for sweets. It's relatively in expensive and is much better for you then cooking spray. I used it in my crock pot and actually think it did a better job at creating a "nonstick" surface than the cooking spray did. If you haven't tried this out, be sure to grab a can (or two) as the holidays are coming up and you will definitely put this to good use!

Fig Butter

I haven't journeyed to Trader Joe's for a while and I decided that it was time to make a visit. This was a potentially dangerous task for me since they have some awesome stuff and I usually end up with a lot more than I went in for. However, this was my challenge to myself so I grabbed my list and headed over. I made sure to mentally remind myself that I should only go to the aisles of things that I actually needed. On one of those aisles, I happened to be passing this and I couldn't resist - fig butter. Butter that isn't refrigerated?...turns out it wasn't butter at all....it's really more like preserves.  I was surprised when I looked at the ingredients and it was just figs, water, sugar and lemon juice (told you it wasn't butter). So I grabbed a jar and headed to the check out because I was on the verge of getting into trouble. Fortunately, that was the only thing that came home with me that wasn't on my list. Winner! I decided that I needed to try this asap and found that it wasn't super sweet, but instead a tiny bit tart and full of fig goodness. If you like figs then you definitely need to try this! It's a perfect fall flavor that you can set out when you need a quick dip for crackers. Just pick up a jar for yourself and I am sure that you will thank me later.

Red Truck

I am still trying to acquire a real taste for red wines. Since I am not a fan of the big, bold reds, I have been trying some Pinot Noirs. I found this Red Truck Pinot Noir for a budget friendly $10 at Trader Joe's. I think that this is a wonderful introduction to red wines, as it is full of fruit and not very tannic. It is a great wine with food or one its own. The interesting part is that it has paired fairly well with chicken and seafood, even though those are the not usual food pairings for red wines. If you are looking for a lighter red wine, this is definitely one worth trying.

Mediterranean Yogurt Dip

I love dips, but most of the time they aren't very healthy for you and can taste really artificial. I was wondering the aisles of Trader Joe's which is always dangerous and found this....a Mediterranean yogurt dip. It is blend of feta and yogurt, topped with traditional spices. The texture was similar to a whipped yogurt...lightly, fluffy, and fresh. You could really get the feta flavor and the spice combination was exotic and unique. It was definitely a change from the hummus I usually eat. The acidity of the yogurt and cheese helped to keep it from tasting to heavy. It was a nice balance to the sweetness of carrots and the sweet small bell peppers. For those of you looking for an alternative to hummus, this is a great option. Be sure to pick this up on your next trip to Trader Joe's.

Butternut Squash Ravioli

I know this is a bit out of season, but I guess better late than never..especially when it comes to food. I bought some butternut squash ravioli at Trader Joe's earlier in the fall and never got a chance to try them, so I recently decided that it was time. I am sure that they don't sell them in the store anymore, but in case they do, you should give them a try. If not, then you have something to look forward to next year. These little pasta pockets are filled with a heavenly butternut squash stuffing that has a hint of nutmeg and fills you with the inner warmth you crave on a chilly winter's day. They are pretty filling and would be perfect with some salad and garlic bread for a super simple and easy meal. Trader Joe's has some really delicious varieties of raviolis, so even if they don't have the butternut squash ones, don't be afraid to try a different one. Let's just be honest....these days the times when we need a fast dinner are becoming more frequent and though they aren't the epitome of a healthy meal, they are probably better for you than fast food. If you are enjoying things in moderation, then one pasta dinner won't kill you. Just make sure to serve it with healthy veggies to balance it out.

Candy Cane Oreo Balls

Alright, I confess that I haven't exactly been able to stick to the baking something new every day. I have however, made multiple batches of things that I have made thus far so I feel a little better about my plan. This time of year just gets busy and time flies by and I don't even know how it happens. So easy recipes that produce large quantities are always helpful and Oreo balls do just that. What are Oreo balls?...crushed up Oreos mixed with cream cheese and dipped in chocolate. The are really fun to make and simple. They do take a little bit of time to make because of the freezing and melting processes, but it's definitely not technically challenging. Besides who doesn't love getting to crush things? I decided to be festive and use the Candy Cane Joe Joe's (from Trader Joe's of course) instead of plain Oreos. I didn't have a rolling pin, so I used a pan to crush all the cookies. Be careful when you are doing this so you don't pop the bag. I did find that that the pan didn't get them as crushed up as I would have liked (although it could have been user error), but it had to suffice.  

Once you get the cookies to the consistency of your like mix in a melted block of cream cheese. Then with a melon baller (cookie scoop or spoon), scoop out the balls onto parchment paper lined baking sheets. I think that the cookie scoop would have been easier to use, but mine was a little too big for this occasion. Pop them into the freezer for 30 minutes and right before you pull them out start melting the chocolate to dip them in. This is how I would suggest doing the next part. I didn't do it this way and had some issues. These tend to "melt" quickly, so I would take a few out at a time to dip. The recipe said to use a fork, but this didn't work for me. I decided to use the best tools I had - my hands. I dropped them in the chocolate made sure they were covered and put them back on the tray. The warm chocolate makes them start to loose their shape, so you have to do this quickly. In the end mine didn't really turn out to be perfect balls, but they tasted delicious so I guess that's what matters most. This is a great way to let your little ones help you in the kitchen and I can guarantee that these will be a definite crowd pleaser! They are chocolately cookie heaven and will have you eating more than just one.

Trader Joe's Goes Greek

As much as I try to stay on schedule, there are mornings when I am running late or don't feel like making something, so I need something quick. What's my go to? Trader Joe's Greek yogurt. I have had other brands of Greek yogurt, but the Trader Joe's version seems to have more choices in the flavor department. The consistency is a bit thicker, creamier, and not as runny. It also seems that on a calorie comparison basis you get to eat more of the Greek yogurt than in the regular yogurt. Though I am not a medical professional (nor am I offering medical advice), I have heard that it is better for you than regular yogurt. I have never seen it in flavors other than some kind of fruit, plain, or with honey. I decided that I would give some of them and try. I ended up with blueberry, honey, pumpkin, and apricot mango. The honey was light and not overly sweet, with just a subtle honey note. (The traditional way is to eat it with honey.) The blueberry had real fruit in it and the pumpkin had a surprise spice flavor to it, with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. The apricot mango (was sadly not nonfat) also had fruit pieces and it definitely had a richer texture. The great thing about all these is that they don't taste at all artificial and make a great snack as well. So on your next trip to Trader Joe's make sure that you pick up some of their delicious Greek yogurt.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Nothing says the holidays like the smell of peppermint wafting through the air. However, I am not really a big fan of eating just plain peppermint things, but when you combine it with chocolate, count me in! During one of my (now routine) visits to Trader Joe's, I found this peppermint hot chocolate. I mean even though its still about 80 degrees here, how could I pass up hot chocolate? I decided that some hot chocolate would be the perfect way to kick off my Christmas decorating. I patiently waited for the water to heat up and then added it to the mix. There was this magical aroma that began to fill the air and even though the weather wasn't at all festive for the holidays, the hot chocolate most definitely was. The peppermint hot chocolate had a nice peppermint note in the background. The chocolate wasn't too sweet and the two were like a heavenly match. If you are a fan of peppermint and hot chocolate, you need to give this a try. It's so much better than the hot chocolate packets. So if your like me and don't have appropriate hot chocolate weather, just have some anyways!

S'more Ice Cream Please!

There is something about ice cream sandwiches and s'mores that just takes me back to my childhood days and reminds me to enjoy the little things in life. However, I was not smart enough to think about combining these two yummy treats into one. Good thing Trader Joe's did when they created the S'more ice cream sandwich. What's even better is that they made it with gelato! Between two graham cracker cookies, there is a chocolate-marshmallow swirl gelato with tiny chocolate chunks nestled inside. The gelato is very light, but so very delicious. The chocolate chunks add a nice texture difference and completes the s'more. The only thing I would say though is that the outside cookie did stick to my fingers, however I was not that upset since it was pretty yummy. The whole thing really did taste like you were eating a cold s'more. I am not one of those people that will only eat ice cream in the summer, so I would recommend grabbing a box (or two) and enjoying this yummy treat. Thanks Trader Joe's for once again finding a way for me to fall in love with my childhood once again.

Blue FIn Chardonnay

Trader Joe's has yet to disappoint me...which only happens when they are out of something. While perusing the store, I walked through the wine and beer section. I was really surprised to see that they had quite the selection of half bottles of wine. Usually stores don't carry them because they aren't all that popular and they aren't the big money makers in the store. Personally, I like them because then I don't have to worry about the wine going bad once I open it because I can drink it in time and I also get to try more. It is also helpful if for some reason you purchase something that isn't your favorite because then you don't have to waste a whole bottle. Trader Joe's doesn't carry any of the main stream wine brands you see in other stores, but they are super cheap and actually pretty good. Granted, these are probably not the wines you should be buying for a wine connoisseur or for a fancy dinner party, but they are great everyday wines. I chose the Blue Fin Chardonnay and it was surprisingly good. There was a hint of acidity with herbal, citrus notes. It was a light wine that had a good finish. For $5, you should try it... there's not really a downside because you aren't throwing away tons of money and if you don't like it there's only about two glasses in the bottle. Take a walk on the wild side and pick up a bottle next time you are at Trader Joe's.

Pumpkin Perfection

I have gradually moved away from ice cream and become an avid gelato lover. However, the pumpkin ice cream from Trader Joe's made me stop and think. It is silky smooth, creamy, rich, and dreamy. The pumpkin flavor isn't artificial tasting and is complimented perfectly with cinnamon and nutmeg. It is tastes exactly like the pumpkin pie, but doesn't make you feel super full afterward. The pumpkin is present, but not overwhelming and the spices make you feel warm and cozy. This is definitely a decadent ice cream, but so yummy and definitely something you don't want to miss out on! Make sure you stock up on this seasonal flavor. Plus, it would be perfect to serve at Thanksgiving and who doesn't love a super easy dessert?! Be sure to pick some up today!

Holy Enchilada!

Frozen meals are convenient, but most of the time they aren't very filling. Most seem to make me even hungrier, so I have just kind of given up on them. However, a trip down the frozen food aisle at Trader Joe's changed my mind. I saw these black bean and corn enchiladas (which are also dairy and wheat free) and they looked surprisingly good. There are two in the package, but one was filling enough for me. If you eat both of them, that would be a meal or you can serve it with rice or a salad for a complete meal. They were filled with chopped zucchini, black beans, and corn and topped with a mild mole type sauce. Don't worry, they aren't spicy, but they do have a ton of flavor.  Next time you are in Trader Joe's, be sure to pick these up for a quick and easy meal.

Cookie Butter

So I didn't know that heaven came in a jar until I tried Trader Joe's Cookie Butter. First of all, Cookie Butter is not butter at all. It is a topping, but not like peanut butter either (though it does look somewhat similar). The magic of this is something called speculoos. This is a shortbread/biscuit like cookie that originated in the Netherlands and Belgium for St. Nicholas' Eve (no wonder it's so fantastic... it's a Christmas cookie) and is made with butter, sugar, and spices. Cookie butter is basically a spreadable form of the cookie. It is silky, creamy, and somewhat sweet with a hint of salt. It literally melts in your mouth. I almost can't describe it because it is such a unique flavor and is so delectable! All I can say is that you need to get to a Trader Joe's as soon as possible and try it out for yourself. Come back and let me know what you think about it!

Super Simple Seafood Supper

I am a little bit picky about my seafood, mainly just because I don't like when it tastes fishy, so I don't usually tend to cook it at home. However, I was ready for something different. During one of my recent visits to Pinterest, I found this recipe for spicy shrimp on Cooking Melangery. It is simple and fresh and takes about 5 minutes to make.

The ingredients you need are shrimp, olive oil, garlic, crushed red pepper, lemon juice, white wine, and salt and pepper. The directions are pretty easy. Saute the garlic and red pepper in the olive oil. Add the shrimp, lemon juice, and white wine. Stir and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn opaque and begin to curl. That's it...seriously. I don't know how you could not want to make this. This is definitely a keeper recipe! The shrimp had a nice spice to them from the red pepper and soaked up the cooking broth, so they were moist and delicious.

I got some rather delicious garlic basil pasta from Trader Joe's that I served the shrimp with. I paired it with some homemade garlic bread and a salad. It was a super healthy and fresh dinner that took less time to make than it did to eat. Now that's what I call a simple supper that is easy to entertain with. You can find the full recipe at http://www.melangery.com/2012/01/shrimp-with-garlic-and-parsley-best.html or on my Pinterest board. Try and see for yourself how simple and yummy it is!

Two for Tea

I have always been a fan of coffee, but sometimes I like variety. There is something romantic about curling up with a cup of tea and a book. I do have to admit though that when I imagine that, it is fall and there is a crispness in the air, but sadly I am a bit early for that. I have acquired an appreciation for tea and have found that it is very relaxing, so it is a perfect morning beverage alternative. Trader Joe's never ceases to amaze me, so I was sure these would be winners. There was a ginger pear tea and a pomegranate white tea. I tend to be cautious around ginger products because it is a very strong flavor. However, the ginger flavor wasn't overwhelming and the touch of pear added a sweetness to balance the stringent ginger. The pomegranate white tea was bright and full of fruit flavor. It was a bit sweeter than the ginger pear and that was without added sugar. I have found that they best way to have a cup of tea is traditional way with milk and sugar. But because I am trying to watch the waistline, I only add a touch of sugar, but usually I drink it plain. I like tea because it makes me feel immediately energized and ready to take on the day. So grab a cup and enjoy!

Snap, Crackle, and Pop

I love the fall when pomegranates are in season, though I don't get them very often. Probably because it is a lot of work for not that much juice off the seeds. I like to see how people use the seeds in different recipes, so I was really excited when these dark chocolate covered pomegranate seeds came in the mail. I have never had anything but fresh pomegranate seeds, so I was interested to see what they would be like. The tiny little nuggets are smooth and sweet from the chocolate and then tart and crunchy. They are easy to eat, are an interesting texture combination, and have a unique flavor. If you have a chance to try, them you should because they are something out of the ordinary.

Buried Treasure

Dark chocolate seems to be a unique food item because it goes with some many different things and has a variety of flavors from sweet to bittersweet. It can be used in main courses and desserts, and no matter what you put it with I always seem to enjoy it. I don't usually like chocolate bars because they can be artificial tasting and somewhat boring. This one however, is none of the above. I was surprised to find that there were more little treats on the inside. First, I found raisins and I am a huge fan of chocolate covered raisins. The squishy texture of the raisin added depth and subtle fruitiness to the chocolate. After taking another bite, I was surprised to find I had bitten into a pecan. I can't think of another chocolate bar that has pecans in it, so that already sets this apart in my mind. The nuttiness of the pecan and its crunch factor paired well with the subtle raisin flavor in the background. I loved getting to have lots of flavors and textures in each bite, taking this chocolate bar from ordinary to extraordinary! Be sure to try this because it is a combination you don't want to miss. I could eat a chocolate bar like this any day. Let me know what other chocolate bars have really wowed you and unwrap a piece for yourself today!

Good Morning Granola

I love granola, but sometimes it can be challenging to find one that actually tastes delicious and not just plain and boring. This granola is another gem from Trader Joe's...mango and passion fruit. Honestly, I would have never picked those two flavors for a granola because it sounds a little too adventurous right? Well it's definitely a super yummy summer breakfast that fills you up and gives you the energy you need to take on the day. It's also really great because it isn't too sweet and there are real chunks of dried mango in it. I decided to have mine with a touch of milk, though I could have thrown it in with my Greek yogurt. Let's just put it this way, no matter how you eat it, you will enjoy it. So pop open the box and pour yourself a bowl and enjoy your morning!

Sipping and Dipping

I will be the first to admit that I am not a wine expert. I am new to the wine world and realize how much I don't know about wine. Most of the time I walk into the store and decide whether I want sweet or dry, and after that it's all about the labels. I know some might scoff at that way to make decisions, but I have discovered some great wines this way. My latest find was a cabernet sauvignon from Two Vines via World Market. This was a very light red that had a wonderfully fruity finish with very light tannins. I can honestly say that I very much enjoyed this wine, which is something that I don't believe I have ever said before. Even if you don't like red wines, I highly recommend giving this wine a try. You never know, you may be very pleasantly surprised like I was. Besides, it was around $10 so there is no reason not to try it!

The other great thing about trying this wine was that I got to break out these yummy new crackers I received. Rosemary and raisin crackers from Trader Joe's. They sound like an odd combination and I was skeptical at first, but it turned out to be a really wonderful symphony of flavors. The earthy spice of the rosemary and the sweetness of the raisins took the crackers from ordinary to extraordinary. I didn't have any, but some herbed cheese might pair well with the crackers when you are entertaining. This isn't your run of the mill cracker. They have life, flavor and are sure to be a hit.

Let me know what wine gems you have found and what makes them so unique. Also, if you have any great suggestions of what to serve with your wine or any fun snacks you have tried, please let me know!