#(and now it's time to make some strawberry agua fresca

[beatricethecat2]

if/then (2.0) - 15 v.2

PSA time: Criticism can be a positive force, especially when it’s constructive, and even more so when it’s given by someone you trust and respect. (Don't be afraid of it!) “But it’s just fan fiction,” the mantra goes, meaning fics don't warrant scrutiny, like "real" writing does. But “It’s just fan fiction,” to me, means I have the ability to go back and reassess, to learn from my mistakes, especially when given sound advice to guide me. I’m writing to learn, as I’m not a writer by trade, so there is no shame in tearing something apart and starting over again. Chapter 15 warranted a serious makeover, so I dove in...the gist is the same but the information imparted differently. I’d forgotten the cardinal rule of "show not tell,” so I’ve gone back and applied that liberally. And here we are, back at Chapter 15, with a (hopefully) more satisfying result. Plus, in the meantime, I’ve plotted out a much better ending (for the story), so it's a win/win situation all around. Edited 6/5.

Previously: part 1, part 2, part 3, part 4, part 5, part 6, part 7, part 8, part 9, part 10, part 11, part 12, part 13, part 14

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Myka checks her phone and looks toward the door again; no new news, but Helena really should be here by now. The VIP preview started at five, and her public opening at six, but now it's near seven, and Helena’s still missing in action. A mix up with her ticket left her stranded until late afternoon, but after some strong words with the manager, she transferred to another airline. She texted over an hour ago that she'd "be there soon," but Myka's beginning to worry she's run into further trouble.

It's almost laughable, her fretting over Helena’s absence, as she was adamant for weeks Helena not join her. But at the last minute, she changed her mind, unnerved about stepping into uncharted territory alone. Helena convinced her she needed a buffer and that she was the best candidate for the job.

After their initial conversation, Helena called like clockwork every day, but at first, Myka didn't pick up. Ignoring Helena entirely seemed the only way to focus, but her heartfelt messages kept creeping into her head. If she was ever going to move past this, they needed to talk, and sooner rather than later was better than waiting.

Their first few conversations were bitter affairs, little more than Helena listening while Myka listed her “wrongs.” Myka vented a laundry list of frustrations, beginning with Germany and tumbling back through their relationship. But over time, her hostility weakened, allowing Helena to steer their focus towards Myka’s show.

“What do you want,” Myka grumbled, tapping "accept" after three full rings.

“To ask how you're faring today,” Helena replied.

“Stressed out. Super busy. Same as yesterday, and the day before.”

“You have been rather agitated lately.”

“Who’s fault is that?” Myka snapped. It had become a habit to push Helena’s buttons whenever possible, but this schtick was getting old, her heart wasn’t in it as it was a few days ago.

“Were you able to ask for more time off work?”

“Yeah,” Myka answered, a little disappointed Helena didn’t offer her usual apologies. "Leena’s sending stuff I can work on at home, so I only have to go in once or twice a week.”

“Excellent. That relieves much of your burden.”

“True, but there’s still so much to do.”

“Talk me through it. Perhaps I can assist.”

Myka looked across her room at the collection of objects on her desk, the ones she and Abigail rescued from Helena’s apartment. She hadn't told Helena what had happened there yet as she wanted to process her experiences there before inserting Helena's influence. But considering the subject matter, that was kind of counterproductive as she wouldn't be able to keep it from her for long.

“Why didn’t you tell me they were gutting your building?” she asked.

“Are they? I wasn't aware.”

“I think you knew.”

“I’d only heard rumblings. Nothing substantial. Certainly, nothing this soon."

Myka grunted in disapproval. "You couldn't have mentioned it was a possibility?"

"Discussing such destruction seemed cruel after all you’d been through. And I didn't want to alarm Christina.”

When Helena got kicked out, Myka was still a mess, so she could see where Helena was going with that. But Christina was going to find out eventually, whether while walking to the park or from a friend at school. Though she didn't mention it either the last time she saw Christina, probably for the same reasons Helena had kept it from her.

Standing from her stool, she walked across the room towards the group of objects littering the table. She fingered the frayed edge of a worn LP sleeve she dug out from the dumpster, one that once lived on a bottom shelf in Helena's living room with many others. They were visible from the couch while she was lying down, and she'd often wished they had a turntable to play them on. That couch provided so much comfort in those trying times, especially when Dewy would knead in circles and then curl up at her feet.

“I loved that apartment.”

“As did I.”

“Well, it’s gone. Ripped apart. The whole damn thing.”

“How do you—“

“Your couch was in a dumpster. We went inside. Took everything left of you we could carry.”

“We?”

“Me and Abigail."

“Oh. You and Abigail.”

The line quieted.

“Sorry, that was...” Harsh, Myka thought. But no harsher than finding her with Bonnie at the sale.

“A-And what treasures did you gather?” Helena asked, in soft, defeated tones.

“A, um...pen,” Myka said, describing the nearest thing to her. “From that Mexican place on Houston. The one with the soup Christina likes when she’s sick.”

“Pozole.”

“Yeah, that’s it."

“Then it's truly a souvenir worth saving,” Helena replied. Her words were polite but distant as if she was thinking about Christina being sick and her inability to comfort her. Myka wanted her to feel guilt, but over her, not her child. She looked around her collection for something less fraught.

“There’s that pom-pom Christina made at Brownies.” Dust fell to the table as Myka lifted an orange poof of yarn.

“The singular time we attended before she began kempo. It wasn’t for us.”

Myka drops the pom-pom and hones in on another item. “Shells from the beach you said were from Santa Cruz?”

“From our excursion after Claudia’s job interview at Apple. That was…an enlightening day.”

“Tell me more.”

“I shall, one day,” Helena answered. “But it wasn't terribly pleasant.”

“Oh, sorry." Myka searches her collection for something with a cheerier backstory.

“I’m touched you felt compelled to save these trinkets, but I must ask, whatever for?”

“They’re lost memories, like mine, from the fire, and I’m painting them for my show. Or at least trying to, but I’m running out of time.”

“Ah, yes! That makes perfect sense."

“It does? How?"

“Thus far, you’ve been piecing together memories, painstakingly recreating objects you’ve lost. But there’s a distance there as if you're compiling a catalog, much like the registrar you’ve trained to be."

“They’re more than cataloging—"

"But the objects from my flat are extant, and your renderings draw directly from their energy. Mixing our memories with your own adds a richness, describing the limbo we're all experiencing while building our lives again.”

“I, um...” Myka looked toward her easel, at the rendering of the calendar she rescued from the floor displayed there. Various events from that month flashed through her mind, and she realized the amount of baggage she was memorializing. Helena’s interpretation of her motives suddenly made sense, though unpacking them at the moment seemed too intense.

“Can you work on multiple paintings using artificial light?” Helena asked.

“I have been, and it helps. But I need to ship everything at least a week and a half in advance.”

“Ship many as you're able and take the rest with you on the plane.”

“Can I do that?”

“Yes. If you're still using wooden panels, they're not weighty. Pack them securely and pay the excess baggage fee,” Helena explained. “Buy them pre-primed to save time in the studio.”

“I like preparing them myself.”

“You must focus on content. Hire someone to prepare them for you, if that’s critical."

“You’re probably right.” Myka sighed.

“You're allowing too many distractions to get in your way.”

“Who’s fault is that?” Myka said, her bite from earlier gone.

“I’ll refrain from phoning if—“

“No. Call. I might not pick up, but this was...helpful." It was, but everything wasn't sitting right just yet. "We’re still not ok. Ok? You know that."

“I’m acutely aware.”

“As long as you know.”

“My offer still stands, either way.”

“I’ll keep it in mind,” Myka said, then tapped end her phone. That was all the critique she could handle for the day.

Positive news also eased tensions between them, as early on, Mrs. Frederic's bid won the sale. The sizable commission allowed her to step away from the gallery, though she promised to help out when needed. And the residency in LA got in touch before her trip and informed her she made it through to the semi-finalist round.

But she needs to get through tonight before anything can truly move forward, a big art night in Warsaw all round. The city's museums and galleries have openings concurrently, and tonight's crowd has already has exceeded expectations. The director's been buzzing around all evening, introducing her to new faces left and right. By the time Helena arrives, all the activity's made her head spin, and she's starting to zone out.

She spies Helena weaving towards her mid-sentence, cornered by a woman asking detailed questions about technique.

“Forgive the intrusion, but I must steal the guest of honor,” Helena says and hooks her arm through Myka’s. She leads her back across the room towards the entrance, then steps back and sweeps her eyes over her outfit. “Lovely as ever. More captivating in person. Though I did appreciate the preview over the phone.”

Myka blinks a few times, a little stunned by Helena’s actually here. “Y-you look nice, too. You didn't say you were wearing a dress.”

“I’m hardly well put together, but I did try my best. This event is too important to arrive both late and unkempt."

Myka searches for traces of unkemptness, but Helena's close-fitting dress is wrinkle-free. It compliments her frame so perfectly, she finds it difficult to look away. When she meets Helena's gaze, Helena's eyes fill with apology, and Myka's soften, accepting the gesture without reproach. Her show wouldn’t have come together without Helena's help, and she’s glad she’s finally here to share it with her.

"I thought you'd be here earlier. Was there lots of traffic?” Myka asks.

"I stopped by my hotel to change.”

“It’s not that far.”

“Yours was booked. Mine’s further away.”

“Oh. I didn't—“ A patron squeezing between them cuts Myka short.

Helena turns to face a painting on the wall. “This one’s mesmerizing in person. Nothing like the photo you sent. Its surface seems holographic, but that can’t be right.”

“I added mica powder to the pigment, to create a shine.”

“Myka power?” Helena quips, raising a brow.

“Very funny. You know what I mean. Christina said it should be shiny, like the sticker.”

“She is you’re harshest critic.”

“At times,” Myka says, with a smirk. “It is her sticker.”

“But the rendering is yours. And the sentiment an ode to childhood obsessions."

“It's about the resilience of materials in the harshest conditions,” Myka snaps, repeating the line she’s used all day. "But I guess it is a kid’s sticker, so...” She looks hard at the likeness of a curled and soiled Pegasus she created. Helena's interpretation wasn’t her intention, but she can see what she means.

“Have you repaired all the damage from your shipment?” Helena asks.

“Don’t get me started. I can’t believe the crappy repacking job they did."

“Manhandling must escalate the longer goods fester in Customs .”

“If they’d been held up anywhere but London, I don’t know what I would have done. Thank you again for convincing me to ask for Mrs. Frederic's help.”

“In my opinion, the paperwork error was inconsequential. They should never have been held back in the first place.”

“That’s what happens when I don’t double check things—"

“Myka, come and meet Priska," a woman interrupts. She places a hand on Myka’s shoulder and glances at Helena. “Ah, this must be the long-lost Helena. Welcome!"

“I’m pleased to have finally arrived,” Helena says, holding out a hand to shake. "You must be Eva, the director. Very nice to meet you,”

“Likewise,” Eva says, accepting the gesture. "I've heard much about you.”

“All good I hope.”

Eva smiles and looks across the gallery. “Come, talk with Priska. She’s intrigued by the calendar piece."

“There's a lot to be said, isn’t there?”

As they walk across the room, the mischievous look in Helena's eye leaves Myka wary of what "a lot" entails.

Helena shifts into dealer mode as they meet with Eva’s client, her charm on high as they check in with various guests. Myka chimes in when Helena's interpretations don’t line up with her own, but after their umpteenth conversation, she’s happy to let Helena speak for her. Helena mostly gets things right, plus she’s wiped from repeating herself, and watching Helena work, in her favor, is still a turn on.

There's a dinner after the opening, then drinks after that and Myka's running on steam by the drinks portion. Helena stays ever by her side, chatting with guests, refilling her glass, ensuring she's having a good time. It's comforting having Helena there to care of her, as she'd been mostly holed up alone for weeks.

During a lull in socializing, Helena glances at Myka and smiles a smile she knows is just for her. She slips her arm around Myka's waist, and Myka instinctively leans towards her, smiling back with equal sentiment.

As the hours pass, and the wine takes hold, their touches become more intimate. At some point, Myka tunes out the room entirely, and her eyes hanging on Helena's lips. The way they lift and stretch to match her cadence and inflection makes her wish they were moving over her skin. She aches to kiss her, but not here, somewhere private, somewhere alone. She snaps out of it when she realizes that’s not out of the question.

She asks the time, it's late, an appropriate time to leave. They say their goodbyes, then pile into a car someone called for them. Myka gives the driver directions, and when Helena adds a second stop, her heart sinks; it no longer makes sense to have asked her to book a separate room. It was an easy way out if their evening went unfavorably, but she assumed they'd be in the same hotel.

“I can’t wait to pass out,” she says, slumping back into her seat. She closes her eyes as the car drives away.

“You deserve a rest. And you’ll sleep soundly knowing tonight was a great success.”

“It was, wasn't it?” Myka says. She cracks an eye open to peer at Helena and sees she's sitting stiffly, too far away. She slides a hand across the seat and lays it over Helena’s thigh. “I’m glad you came.”

“Thank you for allowing me,” Helena says. She covers Myka’s hand with her own.

The car turns at a light and Myka settles back, closing her eyes again, resting her head on the top of the seat. The car turns and slows after continuing on for several minutes. When it stops, Helena removes her hand.

“Come up with me,” Myka says and squeezes Helena’s thigh.

Helena looks down at Myka's hand but doesn't answer.

"If you want," Myka adds. Was Helena's doting all an act? She did offer her hotel address rather quickly. Maybe she misread her; maybe she wants to be alone.

“I’d be happy to,” Helena says, laying her hand over Myka’s again and smiling as she meets Myka’s eyes.

They exit the vehicle and walk straight through the lobby, directly into an open elevator. Myka presses a button, and as they move skywards, she steps back and examines Helena’s shimmery ensemble.

“Your dress reminds me of the one from our first ‘official’ date.”

“Do you reckon?” Helena glances down at her garment.

“The cut’s the same, but the color's different. Did you do that on purpose?”

“I may very well have,” Helena replies.

The door opens and they walk down a corridor then stop in front of Myka’s room. Myka slips her keycard into the slot and upon entering, sheds her jacket and bag, throwing both over the arm of a chair. She turns and faces Helena, who is standing a few paces away.

“Take your coat off," Myka says, motioning for Helena to come closer.

“We should talk,” Helena says, her tone weighty, beyond the current mood.

“I know, but...” Myka steps behind Helena and reaches over her shoulders, slipping her fingers underneath her lapels. She leans forward and angles her head, so her lips nearly touch Helena's ear. “Let's keep tonight about me.”

Myka tugs on Helena's lapels and Helena circles her arms back, allowing Myka to slip her coat off entirely. Myka throws the coat on top of her own, then pads in front of Helena and threads a finger under the strap of her dress.

“Maybe we can have a do-over,” Myka says, her eyes following her finger as it slides up towards Helena's collarbone then back down to where the strap meets Helena's generous neckline.

“A what?”

“A do-over. For our 'official' first date.” Myka angles her eyes up, meeting Helena's questioning gaze. "We are in a hotel, and you are wearing a dress.”

"So it seems,” Helena says, her eyes falling to Myka's lips. She leans forward for a kiss, but Myka dodges, grabbing her hand and pulling her toward the bed. As they reach the edge, Myka spins Helena around and taps on her shoulders so she falls into sitting position, Helena lays back and Myka crouches down, lifting Helena's foot, slipping off one heel and then another. She removes her own and drops both pairs to the floor while Helena shimmies up the bed until her head rests on a pillow. Myka crawls across the bed until her body is hovering over Helena’s and Helena adjusts so they're in perfect alignment.

“This is where we left off,” Myka says, dipping down for a kiss. Helena lifts her head, but Myka stops an inch short. “No, wait. You sit up and kiss me.” Myka settles back on her haunches and takes hold of Helena’s hands, placing them, palms down, above her knees.

Helena lifts slowly at the waist, palms skimming up Myka’s thighs as Myka cups Helena’s jaw and guides their lips together. Helena's thumbs slide inwards as they reach the hem of Myka's skirt, stretching eagerly towards tender, intimate flesh.

“Hey!” Myka yelps.

Helena freezes. “I thought we were continuing where we left off?”

“It was our first time, remember? You wouldn’t have moved that fast.”

“You haven't a clue what I would or would not have done.”

“Then tell me," Myka says, but kisses Helena her before she can answer, a strategic brush of Helena's thumbs impossible to ignore.

Helena rakes her hands up, over the curve of Myka's hips, and wraps her arms tightly around Myka's middle. Myka presses into Helena as Helena’s tongue parts her lips, the need for closer contact rushing through her like lightning. When they're forced to break for air, Helena places kisses across Myka’s cheek and lets her lips linger near her ear.

“Any flesh I’d longed to touch would have been unclothed immediately.” Helena reaches behind Myka’s shoulders and drags down her zipper. Myka leans back and lifts her arms, allowing Helena to peel her garment off entirely.

"I'd have mapped every arc and every crook; cataloged each utterance of pleasure I'd earned." Helena slides Myka’s bra strap over the slope of her shoulder and places a soft, lingering kiss on the rise of her breast.

“Wait," Myka says as painful memories trickle back. “If you wanted me so badly, why did you leave?”

“We’ve talked about this,” Helena says, laying her forehead on Myka's chest.

“But I still don’t understand,” Myka says, tipping Helena's head up, needing to see Helena's eyes as she answers.

“I thought tonight was to remain about you.”

“It was but…why were you so scared that night?”

“I’d only just learned I’d be deported.”

“That’s not it. Not enough for you to bolt. It was something else, something out of your control.”

“Myka...“

Myka sits back, distancing herself, brow furrowing as she replays the details of that evening. “You asked a lot of questions about Mrs. Frederic. But you already knew who she was, didn’t you?”

“Her reputation precedes her—“

“No, you knew her. You’d met her before. Were you working for her then?”

“I hadn’t met her until the day I was called into her office." Helena's eyes narrow and Myka shrinks back. She hit a nerve, as she did so often over the phone. “I think you're over-tired, and perhaps a bit tipsy,” Helena says, taking hold of Myka’s hands and drawing them towards her.

“I’m going to change,” Myka says, slipping her hands free and sliding off the bed. She walks towards the bathroom and after entering closes the door.

She leans on the counter and stares into the mirror, seeing what Helena saw. Her eyes are red and puffy, her hair fairly frazzled, but it's been a really, really long day, so she's not surprised. But maybe, just maybe, she's overreacting as she is both overworked and overtired.

She begins pulling out pins and thinking over the situation; was Helena spying on Macpherson for Mrs. Frederic all this time? And was Bonnie clued into the situation before now? Helena said Mrs. Frederic knew her, or rather knew Emily before London, but did she mean “knew of” or “knew her personally?” And if so, wouldn’t she have known the "other" Emily first? Unless she only knew "this" Emily, Helena's Emily, the one from the trial.

She yanks the last pin free and runs her fingers through, combing her hair out into rough, curled strands.

If Helena was telling the truth and she wasn’t Emily before their date, then it is possible, at dinner, she hadn't met Mrs. Frederic yet. So maybe she's jumping to conclusions, mixed up between Claudia's research and Helena's murky past. It is easy to fall into old patterns, so she probably should chill out until they can talk for real. They have a whole three days to hash things out, and it's best to do so with a clear head.

She brushes her teeth and gives her face a quick wash before swapping her clothes for a t-shirt and shorts. She hesitates before opening the door, how does she want to handle this? If things hadn’t gone sour so quickly, they’d be otherwise engaged right now. And she'd rather be doing that than confronting Helena. Maybe it's best to pass out and deal with it tomorrow.

When she opens the door, Helena's standing near the entrance, her coat and shoes already on.

“At least you didn’t sneak out this time.”

“I was certain you wouldn't want me to stay.”

“No, I do." Myka walks toward her suitcase and rummages through, pulling out a fresh t-shirt. “Here. Go change.”

Helena removes her coat and shoes then moves toward the bathroom, taking the t-shirt from Myka’s hand as she passes.

Once the door closes, Myka climbs onto the bed and burrows under the covers. She breathes deep breaths and closes her eyes, hoping to calm her nerves before Helena emerges.

Too few moments later, the bed dips down, and Helena sits motionless for what seems like an eternity. Myka doesn't move either, unsure of how to proceed, waiting for Helena to set the tone.

“Are you asleep?”

“No. Not yet."

“May I say something?”

“Sure."

“Our past may be irreparable, and our future...unpredictable. But our present is something we hold agency over.”

Myka rolls onto her side and bends her arm at the elbow, propping her head up with a hand. “How long did it take you to come up with that?"

"Since you first entered to bathroom."

"It's good. And I get it. You mean tonight is what we make it.”

“Yes,” Helena says. “You’d asked this evening be kept about you and I'd hoped you'd allow me to hold fast to that. You deserve a grand finish that only I can deliver. Let's end your successes on a high note."

“Selling yourself, instead of my paintings? Classy.” Myka huffs a short laugh.

“In a manner of speaking. Is that of any interest?"

"Kinda." Myka shrugs.

“Then I clearly misinterpreted your earlier intentions." Helena looks down at her hands.

“No, you didn't,” Myka says. “I'm interested. But it wouldn’t fix anything. And we’d still need to talk. A lot.”

“And we shall. Eminently.”

Myka slides her hand across the duvet and brushes a thumb over Helena's wrist. She may regret this tomorrow, but it is what she wants tonight.

Helena lifts her legs onto the bed and stretches out next to Myka, angling her body so they’re lying face to face. She cups Myka’s jaw and brushes a thumb over her cheek, looking into her eyes as if asking permission. Myka covers Helena’s hand and slides it over her lips, kissing it then laying it on the bed. She then eases Helena onto her back and straddles her hips, planting her hands on either side of her head. She dips down and kisses Helena as Helena's hands skim up her thighs, fingers sliding under Myka's hem with zero protests.

-TBC-

[roman-sing-despacito]

El amanecer (The Sunrise)

Soulmate September: Day 1 - Your Soulmate’s name is written on your wrist or palm. @tsshipmonth2020

Pairing: DLAMP

Summary: Logan works in his mamá’s coffee shop, El amanecer, and there he meets quite a few people. But, on a particular Saturday, he meets some of the most important people: his soulmates

Summary 2: Patton spills his horchata, Roman is late to work, Virgil brings an umbrella, Logan does his job, and Janus is Remy’s coffee boy

Patton scanned over the menu one more time before practically skipping up to the counter. Once he got there, a middle aged woman smiled warmly at him and positioned herself behind the cash register.

“!Buenos días! Welcome to El amanecer. What can I get you?”

The woman’s smile was contagious, and even though he was half-asleep and slightly cranky, Patton couldn't help but return it. “Hi! Can I get a mango horchata, please?”

The woman nodded and went a little farther down the counter to prepare the drink, leaving Patton fiddling with the many bracelets decorated along his wrist.

“So, young man,” The woman looked up at the high-schooler before focusing on the drink again. “how did you hear about my shop? Me and my son have been trying to figure out how to spread the word more quickly. Especially since we just opened up last month.”

Patton’s smile grew as he recalled how his friend Emile recommended this coffee shop to him a week ago. The two were in math class and Emile had mentioned that she had passed by the new shop on her way to school. She had wanted to go with Patton, but her debate team had rescheduled their meeting to today.

“Well…” Pat smiled to himself, “I heard about it through a friend.” The woman nodded and handed him the horchata. After paying, he left a five dollar bill in the jar labelled: TIPS next to the register and turned to leave before looking back. “Thank you Miss...?”

She laughed. “Please, call me Quetzali! No need for formalities.” Patton nodded with a grin. “Well then thank you, Quetzali. I needed a nice drink to wake me up! I have a project due in a week and I’m afraid I’ve been procrastinating it longer than I should have.” He smiled sheepishly and then waved goodbye.

“Good luck with the project! And hopefully I will see you soon.” She winked.

And as Patton closed the door, he heard Quetzali shout, “!Mi amor! Come take over the front, I need to—”

Assuming she wasn’t talking to him, Patton took another sip as he walked down the street. He was so busy brainstorming ideas for his science project that he didn’t notice a mop of red hair running straight at him.

“HEY WATCH OUT—!!!”

The two collided, knocking both boys off their feet.

Patton groaned as he rubbed his head, trying to soothe the growing throb. “I am so so sorry! Are you okay?” The redhead helped Patton up.

“Oh uh…” He glanced down to see his spilled horchata a few feet away, “Well I’m okay kiddo! But my drink sure isn’t…” He trailed off with a small pout.

The stranger grimaced. “Gosh I really am sorry about that. I’m running late for work and I do not want to be late for the second day in a row!”

The two were so engrossed in one another that neither of them noticed how it had started to lightly drizzle.

“It’s alright! No harm done—uh...what’s your name kiddo?”

The redhead laughed, “I’m pretty sure I’m older than you.”

He held out a hand to Patton, “Name’s Adams, Roman Adams. And I think you fell for me.” He winked.

And neither noticed the purple-haired teen walking up to them.

Patton’s hand froze mid-handshake. “Um, what?” Did he hear that right?

Not expecting that reaction, Roman quickly dropped his hand to his side, “Oh. Sorry, I can be a bit too forward sometimes.”

“No! No, don't worry kid—Uh, Roman. I just…” Patton trailed off not really believing that he finally met one of his soulmates. “Um, I’m Patton.”

Unfortunately Roman was quick to worry, and he felt as though he made things weird. He wanted nothing more than to leave the (in Roman’s opinion) awkward situation. 

Until Patton’s name clicked.

“Wait. Your name...? You’re Patton?”

The two looked at each other in awe. Roman swiftly pulled up his long sleeves, ignoring the rain running down his now exposed arm, while Patton pushed up the bracelets that covered his soulmates’ names.

And sure enough, starting from his inner wrist, Roman’s soulmarks read: Patton Virgil Logan Janus in a variety of colors.

Patton gasped as Roman read over his soulmate's arm, the colors for each name matching: Roman Virgil Logan Janus

Roman made eye contact with Patton’s teary eyes and the two quickly engulfed each other in a hug. “We found each other! Oh my goodness gracious!!!”

With a joyous laugh Roman looked up at Patton, “I’m sorry about your drink.”

“Roman! I would spill a thousand drinks if it meant I got to meet one of my soulmates!”

It was then that the two finally noticed that it was raining. And for some reason, they were no longer getting wet.

“Uh...what if you met another soulmate?” Patton looked sideways to see someone about his and Roman’s age, holding a big umbrella over all of them.

Roman gave the new stranger a small grin, “Do you mean..?”

The stranger shuffled awkwardly before gesturing to his arm not holding the jet black umbrella. “You can check for yourselves. I’m Virgil.”

Patton eased out of Roman’s hug and gently lifted Virgil’s grey jacket sleeve. He stopped once all of the names were visible: Roman Patton Logan Janus once again, the soulmarks were in an array of colors

Patton squealed in happiness and Roman lightly smirked, “How lovely it is to meet you, Dark and Stormy Night.”

Virgil couldn’t help the small smile that grew the longer they looked at each other. “Wow, Princey. Wonder where you came up with that one?” He muttered sarcastically.

Which Roman was quick to return with a playful scoff, “Well seeing as you have saved Patton and I from the rain, I think it fits perfectly.”

Patton smiled as two of his soulmates laughed, he bounced closer to Virgil and held his arms out in a hug. “Hug time?” He asked excitedly.

Virgil’s smile dropped. “I don’t…” He fidgeted with the end of his jacket, he didn't want to be rude to his soulmate. Especially as they had just met.

Patton let his arms drop. “You can say no, Virgil.” His warm smile calmed the purple haired boy down a bit.

“Are you sure…?”

Roman smiled. “Of course! We would never force you to do anything you don’t want to.”

 “Thank you.” Virgil’s whisper was returned with a nod and a smile.

“Now Princey...I think you owe Pat here a new drink.” The trio glanced at the spilled horchata laying on the sidewalk.

Roman was quick to bow deeply, “I would be honored to accompany my soulmates to retrieve Patton’s desired drink!”

“Wait! Don’t you have work, Roman?”

Roman waved off Patton’s concern. “I just met two of my soulmates! I’m sure Thomas will understand if I called in explaining the situation.”

“Well if you’re sure…”

With that the three walked back to El amanecer. All the while talking about their lives, and joking around with each other.

~*~*~*~*~

Janus groaned as his phone rang for the third time. He didn’t even have to look at the caller ID. “What do you want now, Remy?” He snapped.

“Chill babes. Geez, can’t a BFF call xir friend to say hello?”

Janus sighed in frustration, “Remy, if you don’t tell me your new order in five seconds, I am hanging up and not getting your stupid coffee. Everyone knows you could use less caffeine anyway.”

“HEY!”

“Five seconds~”

“Okay! Okay, geez.”

“Four seconds~”

“Sooo, I made up my mind and I just want a plain cappuccino!”

Janus stopped walking. “You, what?”

“Plain cappuccino.”

Janus felt an eye twitch, “Remy. You had me memorize an entire order with a whole bunch of extra syrups and toppings twice and now you’re telling me to forget all of that!?”

“Listen babes, I don’t choose the coffee. The coffee chooses me.”

“You know what? Fine. You’re lucky I care about you.”

“Awww does Jan-Jan actually have a heart?” Remy teased through the phone. Xe knew Janus only cared about a select few people, but the few he does care for, he cares for deeply.

“Oh, would you look at that! I’m already at El amanecer! Bye Remy.” He hung up on Remy’s cackling laughter.

Janus opened the door as a ghost of a smile appeared, “What a lunatic.”

He got in line behind a rather attractive redhead, and he couldn’t help but tune into the redhead and the cute barista’s conversation. What? He was bored, sue him.

~*~*~*~*~

“Salutations, welcome to El amanecer. What would you like?” Despite being flustered by the redheaded customer, Logan kept his voice neutral and ensured he had an air of professionalism around him. Well...as much professionalism as a 16 year-old boy could muster.

“Hey there! Um, can I get one mango horchata, one vanilla bean frappuccino, and a strawberry agua—Uh, agua...fresca, please?” Roman cringed a little at his slip up.

Logan totaled up the order and gave a small nod. “Of course. Wait one moment please.” He went to prepare the drinks, and Roman saw this as the perfect opportunity to make some small chat with the dashing blonde barista.

“Today’s been a crazy day. I was late to work, and in rushing to get to my bus stop I ran into this guy. Turns out, he’s my soulmate!”

Logan didn’t look Roman in the eyes, “Oh?” He replied, seemingly disinterested. But really, he was a bit dejected that the redhead had already found his soulmate.

“Yeah! And after we found out, another guy walked up to us and we found out that he was another one of our soulmates!”

Logan’s shock was hidden by him turning his head away from Roman. “Oh, wow. The odds of that are infinitesimal.”

“Infinity—What?”

Logan placed the horchata and agua fresca in front of Roman before turning away again. “Infinitesimal. It means really small.”

Roman nodded, “Oh, cool. So...what’s your name? I’m Roman.”

Logan’s grip on the frappuccino faltered and the coffee crashed to the floor. He jumped, startled, and hurried to clean it up. 

Logan looked up, his face flushed when Roman exclaimed, “Oh! Sorry if I’m distracting you.”

The blonde shook his head. “No, no. You’re fine...Roman. I was uh, surprised is all.”

“Why?” The confusion in his eyes was too adorable for the barista to handle.

Logan looked away, focusing on cleaning up the rest of the spilled coffee. “My name is Logan.” He figured if they were soulmates, Roman would have a similar reaction. And if he had no reaction, then Logan could forget this embarrassing moment ever happened.

He stood up and looked hesitantly in Roman’s eyes. But the hesitance was quickly replaced with hope, as a wide smile lit up the redhead’s face.

“You mean we’re…?”

“Soulmates.” Logan confirmed.

The two rolled up their sleeves and on Logan’s arm were brightly colored soulmarks: Roman Janus Patton Virgil

“Wow.” Roman let out a breathy laugh. “Three soulmates in one day?”

Logan sent him a small smile. “By any chance, are any of the other names on my arm the two people you met?”

“Yep!” Roman beamed, “Virgil and Patton are over there.” He pointed to the far left corner of the coffee shop where a bubbly, black haired teen sat in a round table laughing with a purple haired boy.

The words; “They’re beautiful.” slipped out.

Logan wanted to smack himself. 

Thankfully though, Roman only smiled. “Yeah, they are.”

After preparing the vanilla bean frappuccino again, Logan nodded in thanks as Roman left a tip.

The two stared at each other, both not knowing what to say, until the sound of someone clearing their throat caused them to jump.

An amused looking brunette laughed at their startled expressions. “My apologies. But I couldn’t help but overhear…” The stranger shifted uncomfortably before cautiously rolling up his sleeve, his tan skin clearly showed: Roman Logan Patton Virgil

“I’m Janus.” The brunette gave them a small smile.

“¡Ay Dios mío!” Logan exclaimed quietly.

Roman was smiling widely at this point, “We all met on the same day!”

“Well,” Janus glanced at the table in the far-left corner. “We haven’t all met.”

Logan nodded enthusiastically, “But we will. After I take your order Janus, I’m sure mamá will give me the day off.”

Janus shrugged, “Don’t worry about it. I only came here to get my friend Remy a cappuccino. And with how much xe pesters me about my soulmates, I’m sure xe will understand why I didn’t deliver it to xem.”

Roman bounced happily, eager for all of his soulmates to meet one another.

With a small nod at Janus, Logan turned away from his soulmates. “¡Mamá! Necesito el día libre por favor.”

Quetzali came out of the back of the shop, looking questioningly at her son. “¿Por qué?”

Logan smiled as he gestured to the two boys in front of the counter. “Porque mamá, quiero conocer a mis almas gemelas.”

Quetzali’s face morphed from concern to pure happiness in the span of a few seconds. “Wow! It’s nice to meet you boys!”

Roman and Janus smiled, giving Quetzali a nod of respect. “Y usted, señora.”

All three of them looked at Janus in surprise.

“What?” Janus huffed, “I didn’t take three years of spanish for nothing.”

They all laughed and Quetzali ushered her son out from behind the counter. “Go meet them, mi amor. Have some fun.” Logan hugged her before joining Janus and Roman in walking up to their other soulmates.

Virgil groaned as he spotted Roman. “Finally! Did you get lost on your way across the shop?”

“Nope!” Roman stepped aside, letting Janus and Logan into view. “However, I did get lost in our soulmates eyes.”

Patton jumped up excitedly while Virgil eyed the new boys. “Hi! I’m Patton!!!”

Logan held out a hand which Pat shook vigorously, “I am Logan.” He nodded at Virgil who sent a peace sign in return. “Sup I’m Virgil.”

Janus took Patton’s hand from Logan and pressed a small kiss to the back of it. “Hello Patton, it is a pleasure to meet you.” He turned to Virgil with a smile, “You as well Virgil.”

With a blushing face Patton offered them all a seat.

“So...this is kind of crazy huh.”

The purple haired boy snorted, “It’s more than crazy, Pat. But...I’m glad to finally meet all of you.”

Roman nodded, his eyes constantly drifting to each of his soulmates.

“Indeed,” Logan adjusted his glasses. “I have never heard of multiple soulmates all meeting on the same day before. The chances that we did are—”

“Infinitesimal.” Janus interrupted.

Logan’s face went aflame. “You actually heard Roman’s and I entire conversation?”

“You have a nice voice Lo.” Janus winked, causing the barista’s blush to deepen.

Virgil pretended to gag, “If all of you are going to be this mushy, I gotta go.”

They all laughed and spent the entire day getting to know one another. The chances of them meeting the way they did? Infinitesimal. Their love for one another? Infinite and unmeasurable, especially as the years went by.

[foodtrails25-blog]

Basil Shikanjavi/Shikanji  or Basil Lemonade is Lemonade made with basil simple syrup. Make your favorite summer drink Shikanjavi with Basil Simple Syrup

Lemonade in India is know as Shikanjavi or Shikanji or Nimbu Paani. Nimbu is Lemons in Hindi language. It is one of the most popular and cheapest form of summer cooler.Here I bring you desi Nimbu Paani with Basil flavor..Basil Shikanjavi/Shikanji or Basil Lemonade

Made with fresh lemons, serve in chilled with added spices like black pepper, black salt or roasted cumin seeds. Many people also use homemade or store bought masala(spice mix) for the enhancing the flavor.

Shikanji is both made in sweet and salty flavors. As a kid I always loved the sweet version with a pinch of masala added to it. Sugar is used as a sweeter, now these days many people have started adding honey to avoid white sugar. My kids also like the sweet version and it is one of their favorite summer drinks. Fortunately, both of then are not at all fond of commercial cola drinks or store-bought fruit juices and like to have homemade ones.

I started using fresh basil in cooking when we came to US. In India back then it was not very popular though we now get the fresh ones at specialty stores.I had earlier used dried basil in  soups,and pizza preparations and basil pesto in homemade breads(Basil Pesto Bread)  sandwich and pasta.

Now I have fallen in love with the flavor of fresh basil and use it in soups and smoothies like these.. Roasted Bell Pepper and Tomato Soup, Melon and Basil Agua Fresca.

What is Basil Shikanjavi or Basil Lemonade

Basil flavored Nimbu Paani or Lemonade is one of the many ways to use fresh basil leaves. Many times it happens that we get fresh basil leaves from store and as the shelf life is very small, these start turning black and lose aroma if not used within first few days. So I make this Basil Simple Syrup and use it in making lemonade or other sweet fruit drinks.

Lemonade flavored with Basil Syrup has become a favorite drink in house. Squeeze in some lemon and  add the syrup as per the sweetness you like then add water or soda as per your preference!! and sip on the lemony freshness with hint of basil flavor.

Lime or Lemon for Lemonade to make Basil Shikanjavi/Shikanji

You can use Lime or Lemon to make this Lemonade. I prefer to use limes that are available here in US,  as the taste of limes is much like the Indian lemons. Indian lemons are much smaller in size as compared to the ones we get in US.

Health Benefits of Lime and Basil

Limes or Lemons are rich sources of Vit. C and antioxidants. Since ages these have been used for medicinal purposes. One of the best detox drinks when mixed with water and honey. cleanse the system and give glowing skin.

Basil is also a rich source of anti-oxidants and excellent source of Vitamin A . It promotes blood flow and is used in aroma therapy(Source online).

Lime and Basil together in this refreshing cooling drink, not only cools down the body but also has several health benefits.

How to make Basil Shikanji

To make Shkanjavi we need basil flavored syrup lemons/lime and chilled water, you can also used soda if you want, especially while serving to your guests. I make Simple Syrup(Sugar Syrup with basil leaves and store it in refrigerator.

It stays good for a week or even longer.

Make lemonade whenever you want. I will not recommend using dried ones,frankly,never tried it. I feel the real flavor of lemonade is enhanced with fresh leaves.

First step is to make Simple Basil Syrup

2 Simple steps and cooling refreshing drink is ready to sip.

Wash the leaves gently under running water.

Add equal parts of sugar and water in a pan. Once the sugar is dissolved and water starts to just boil, add basil leaves and boil for a minutes then switch off the flame.

I like to blend the whole mixture with leaves, keep it for sometime so that the flavor of basil leaves is infused in mixture.

Then filter it and keep it in refrigerator.

You an also free the syrup in ice cube tray and use as required.

How to make Basil Nimbu Paani or Basil Lemonade

To make Lemonade or Nimbu Paani, squeeze one whole lime one lemon in a glass, add basil syrup around 1/4 cup or as per the sweetness required, add water, ice cubes sip on the freshness!

You can also add cut or lightly muddled fruits like kiwis, strawberries or blueberries for an enhanced fruity taste.

  Recipe card for Basil Shikanjavi/Shikanjavi or Basil Lemonade

Basil Shikanji/Basil Lemonade

Shikanjavi or Nimbu Paani or Indian Lemonade flavored with basil simple syrup made with fresh basil leaves. Learn how to make Basil flavored Nimbu Paani or Lemonade

For Basil Simple Syrup

2 Cup Water

1½ Cup Sugar

1 Cup Fresh Basil Leaves

For Lemonade

2 Lemons

1/4 Cup Basil Simple Syrup

Water or Soda

Make Basil Simple Syrup

In a pan add water and sugar together.

Switch on the gas stove, heat water and sugar mixture.

When the mixture just let it boil for 1-2 mins. then add basil leaves.

Let it boil for another 1 minute.

Switch off the flame and let the flavor of basil leaves infuse in water sugar mixture.

Once the mixture cools down, blend the mixture. This is optional.

You can skip this step and directly strain the mixture.

Strain the mixture after blending.

Store it in an air-tight glass bottle or jar, use as required.

To make Shkanjavi/Lemonade

In a glass ad the basil simple syrup,about 1/4 cup for a glass. Add chilled water ice-cubes. Add few slices of any fruit you like or simply serve the nimbu paani and enjoy!!

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How to Use Basil Simple Syrup other then making Lemonade

My favorite way to use it is in lemonades, ice teas or other fruity drinks where we need sugar syrup. You can also drizzle this on fruit salads, add in popsicle or granitas.

Can I make it without Sugar Syrup

Do not want to use white sugar?? You can add honey to it. To make without sugar, boil water, then add basil leaves, boil for a minute and then let the flavor infuse, add honey then store it after straining.

Vegans can use maple syrup or any other natural sweetener.

You can make ahead of any party or get-together and serve to guests. Trust me it will be hit among all the age groups.  Not only in hot and dry summers , you can make this have it any season as it a good source of Vit. C and antioxidants.

Do give me your feedback about the post and recipe whenever you make it.

Visit my social media accounts.. FB, Pinterest and Instagram. Whenever you make this, do post on my FB page or tag me on Instagram(#foodtrails25). Pin the recipes for later reference.

If you like my work, then do hit the follow button to subscribe to my blog to get notifications on new posts. Also do share the blog info with your loved ones.

  Basil Shikanjavi/Shikanji or Basil Lemonade Basil Shikanjavi/Shikanji  or Basil Lemonade is Lemonade made with basil simple syrup. Make your favorite summer drink Shikanjavi with Basil Simple Syrup…

[vincentpennington]

Skinnytaste Meal Plan (July 29-August 4)

A free 7-day flexible weight loss meal plan including breakfast, lunch and dinner and a shopping list. All recipes include calories and Weight Watchers SmartPoints®.

This week’s meal plan takes advantage of summer fruits and vegetables like zucchini, tomatoes, corn and watermelon.

If you’re new to my meal plans, I’ve been sharing these free, 7-day flexible healthy meal plans (you can see my previous meal plans here) that are meant as a guide, with plenty of wiggle room for you to add more food, coffee, beverages, fruits, snacks, dessert, wine, etc or swap recipes out for meals you prefer, you can search for recipes by course in the index. You should aim for around 1500 calories* per day.

There’s also a precise, organized grocery list that will make grocery shopping so much easier and much less stressful. Save you money and time. You’ll dine out less often, waste less food and you’ll have everything you need on hand to help keep you on track.

Lastly, if you’re on Facebook join my Skinnytaste Facebook Community where everyone’s sharing photos of recipes they are making, you can join here. I’m loving all the ideas everyone’s sharing! If you wish to get on the email list, you can subscribe here so you never miss a meal plan!

Also, if you don’t have the Skinnytaste Meal Planner, now would be a great time to get one to get organized for 2019! There was a print error last year, but it’s perfect now! You can order it here!

THE DETAILS:

Breakfast and lunch Monday-Friday, are designed to serve 1 while dinners and all meals on Saturday and Sunday are designed to serve a family of 4. Some recipes make enough leftovers for two nights or lunch the next day. While we truly believe there is no one size fits all meal plan, we did our best to come up with something that appeals to a wide range of individuals. Everything is Weight Watchers friendly, I included the updated Weight Watcher Freestyle Points for your convenience, feel free to swap out any recipes you wish or just use this for inspiration!

The grocery list is comprehensive and includes everything you need to make all meals on the plan. I’ve even included brand recommendations of products I love and use often. Cross check your cabinets because many condiments you’ll notice I use often, so you may already have a lot of them.

And last, but certainly not least, this meal plan is flexible and realistic. There’s plenty of wiggle room for cocktails, healthy snacks, dessert and dinner out. And if necessary, you can move some things around to make it work with your schedule. Please let me know if you’re using these plans, this will help me decide if I should continue sharing them!

MONDAY (7/29) B: 2 scrambled eggs (0) and 1 ounce avocado (1) L: Greek Chickpea Salad (6) D: Cream of Zucchini Soup  (1) with White Bean Caprese Salad (2) and 2 ounces multigrain baguette (3)

Totals: Freestyle™ SP 13, Calories 813*

TUESDAY (7/30) B: Strawberry Peanut Butter Swirl Bowls (7) (½ recipe) L: Greek Chickpea Salad (6) D: Tzatziki Fish Tacos (6) with Watermelon Agua Fresca (0)

Totals: Freestyle™ SP 19, Calories 975*

WEDNESDAY (7/31) B: 2 hard-boiled eggs (0) and a plum (0) L: Greek Chickpea Salad (6) D: Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry (4) with ¾ cup brown rice (5)

Totals: Freestyle™ SP 15, Calories 879*

THURSDAY (8/1) B: Strawberry Peanut Butter Swirl Bowls (7) (½ recipe) L: Greek Chickpea Salad (6) D: Za’atar Lamb Chops (4) with Grilled Corn Salad with Feta (3)

Totals: Freestyle™ SP 20, Calories 911*

FRIDAY (8/2) B: 2 hard-boiled eggs (0) and a plum (0) L: Chicken Club Lettuce Wrap Sandwich (5) and an apple (0) D: Basil-Parmesan Salmon (3) with Zucchini Carpaccio (2)

Totals: Freestyle™ SP 10, Calories 912*

SATURDAY (8/3) B: Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread (5) with a banana (0) L: The Skinny Tuna Melt (4) (recipe x 2) D: DINNER OUT!

Totals: Freestyle™ SP 9, Calories 484*

SUNDAY (8/4) B: Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread (5) with 1 cup mixed berries (0) L: 2 cups Summer Macaroni Salad with Tomatoes and Zucchini (6) (½ recipe) D: Grilled Chicken Bruschetta (4) with corn on the cob (0)

Totals: Freestyle™ SP 15, Calories 842*

*This is just a guide, women should aim for around 1500 calories per day. Here’s a helpful calculator to estimate your calorie needs. I’ve left plenty of wiggle room for you to add more food such as coffee, beverages, fruits, snacks, dessert, wine, etc.

(more…)

The post Skinnytaste Meal Plan (July 29-August 4) appeared first on Skinnytaste.

[realsimplegood]

When the weather heats up, and it’s already warm outside when we get out of bed, my usual hot matcha latte that I’ve become accustomed to in the morning just doesn’t sound as good. This Paleo and Vegan vanilla lavender iced matcha latte is dairy-free and also refined sugar-free. You will love the calming, cool summer vibes of this iced matcha latte. 

Vanilla Lavender

I didn’t like lavender for the longest time, but then all of the sudden I did and now I use it all the time! It’s really no surprise I decided to give it a try in this iced matcha latte. I’m so happy with this concoction and think you’re going to love the aromatic and calming effect of this iced matcha latte!

Why Matcha?

I still love coffee, there’s no denying it! I mean how can you not love coffee? Am I right?! However, coffee definitely seems to irritate my stomach if I drink it everyday, so that is why I began my affair with matcha! The more I started to drink matcha, the more I fell in love with the earthy green tea. I don’t get jittery, sweaty or have the afternoon crash like I experienced in the past when drinking coffee regularly. My stomach also feels a lot better, too. So basically, all around things are better when I limit my coffee intake, and I’ve found matcha to be quite enjoyable!

Versatility Of Matcha

At first, matcha felt like my second choice, but then I started to realize it is quite versatile. You can really play with the flavors a lot to keep it fresh and exciting. Now, I rarely have the exact same matcha latte more than two days in a row. Sometimes I make it savory by adding bone broth and other times a little sweeter sounds good. I think for the summertime and making iced matcha lattes, sweeter sounds a little better to me. I use pure maple syrup or local raw honey to sweeten. Stick with pure maple syrup if you’re making your iced matcha latte Vegan.

Some Other Beverages To Try

PINA COLADA SMOOTHIE

HONEY LAVENDER LEMONADE

STRAWBERRY BASIL WATERMELON AGUA FRESCA

PISTACHIO MATCHA MILK

BANANA ALMOND BUTTER SMOOTHIE

PEACH BERRY PINA COLADA SMOOTHIE

Your Turn To Try Our Vanilla Lavender Iced Matcha Latte

Already a matcha latte fan, but haven’t played much with the flavors yet? Go ahead and give this vanilla lavender iced matcha latte a try! It’s calming, smooth and a little sweet. Leave a comment to let us know what you think. Also, take a picture and tag us on Instagram @realsimplegood, so we can check it out! Give us a follow if you don’t already, so we can stay connected!

LIKE THIS RECIPE? SHARE IT NOW OR PIN IT FOR LATER!

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Vanilla Lavender Iced Matcha Latte (Paleo, Vegan + Refined Sugar-Free)

This Paleo + Vegan vanilla lavender iced matcha latte is dairy-free and refined sugar-free. You’ll love the calming, cool summer vibes!

1 tsp matcha ((we love Mizuba Tea Company) )

1/2 tsp vanilla extract ((look for no added sugar))

1 drop therapeutic grade lavender essential oil

1.5 cups hot water

1/4 cup full fat coconut milk, chilled

Pure maple syrup, to taste ((or local raw honey – not Vegan))

Ice

Optional add-ins:

2 scoops collagen ((we love Perfect Supplements))

1 tbsp MCT oil ((we love Nutiva))

Adaptogens ((like maca, ashwagandha, etc.))

Heat water in a kettle on the stove. 

Add matcha, vanilla, lavender and any additional add-ins to your blender. 

Once water is hot, add to blender and blend until smooth. 

In a glass or jar, add coconut milk and matcha mixture. Stir to combine, and add sweetener to taste. Add ice and enjoy! 

Vanilla Lavender Iced Matcha Latte (Paleo, Vegan + Refined Sugar-Free) When the weather heats up, and it's already warm outside when we get out of bed, my usual hot matcha latte that I've become accustomed to in the morning just doesn't sound as good.

[aspanishomelette]

Esta receta la vi hace tiempo en el blog de María Lunarillos y tenía muchas ganas de hacerla. Había hecho mousse antes, pero nunca una tarta de este tipo y he decir una cosa, ha sido todo un éxito. Todo surgió en el cumpleaños de "Minilove", me pidió una tarta de fresas y como empezaba el calor...me pareció el momento. Ahora también os digo que tengo muchas ganas de volver a hacer la tarta con las fresas silvestres del huerto de mi padre, que sin querer desmerecer las que que compré en la frutería, están mucho  más ricas. Espero os guste.

Ingredientes: Para la base:

180 gr de galletas de avena "tipo digestive"

1 cucharada de azúcar

2 cucharadas de girasol (o cualquier otro aceite que no tenga casi sabor)

Para el relleno:

500 gr de fresas frescas

250 gr de nata para montar

100 gr de azúcar

3 claras de huevo

1 pizca de sal

14 gr de gelatina en polvo

El zumo de 1 limón

Para la cobertura:

Fresas frescas

80 ml de agua

0,25 gr de Agar-agar ó 2 gr de gelatina en polvo

Receta para...depende de lo golosos que seamos. Tiempo aproximado de preparación: 60 minutos + 1 noche para el primer reposo + 4 horas para el reposo final. Cómo lo hago:

Empezamos por preparar la base de la tarta con las galletas. Pesamos las galletas, las ponemos en una batidora y las trituramos.

Mezclamos el azúcar y el aceite con las migas de galletas, hasta que esté homogéneo.

Forramos con papel de hornear el fondo de un molde desmontable de 18 cm y extendemos las migas de galleta. Presionamos con los dedos para compactarlo e igualarlo por toda la superficie.

Metemos el molde en el horno a 160 ºC (con aire) / 180 ºC (sin aire) y cocemos la base unos 10 minutos. La sacamos y dejamos que se temple.

Para el relleno de mousse de fresa lavamos y limpiamos las fresas, las secamos un poco y las ponemos en un cazo con 50 g del azúcar de la receta. Calentamos a fuego suave y cuando hiervan las dejamos cocer 10 minutos, para que se reduzca un poco el líquido.

Mientras las fresas acaban de cocer hidratamos la gelatina en 3-4 cucharadas de agua fría.

Al cabo de los 10 minutos apagamos el fuego, agregamos el zumo del limón y la gelatina hidratada. Removemos para que se mezcle bien y pasamos la mezcla por un pasapurés para eliminar el granillo de la fresa. Dejamos templar a temperatura ambiente.

Mientras se enfría la compota de fresa montamos la nata (recordad que tiene que estar muy fría) en un robot, amasadora o batidora de varillas. Es mejor no montarla muy dura, así se mezcla mejor. La mezclamos con el puré de fresa, poco a poco, con una la ayuda de una espátula y haciendo movimientos envolventes.

Montamos las claras con la sal en un robot o con la batidora de varillas a velocidad alta. Cuando estén muy espumosas agregamos a cucharadas los 50 g de azúcar restantes. Batimos cinco minutos y añadimos el merengue a la mezcla de fresas, ahora hay que tener mucho cuidado y hacerlo con la espátula poco a poco y con movimientos envolventes.

Vertemos la mezcla en el molde sobre la base de galleta. Golpeamos ligeramente el molde sobre la encimera para que se alise la superficie y lo metemos en la nevera (tapado para que no coja olores) toda una noche para que cuaje.

Pasado ese tiempo hacemos la cobertura, para ello limpiamos y cortamos tantas fresas como queramos poner en la cobertura. Las secamos ligeramente y reservamos.

Preparamos la gelatina o el agar-agar con los 80 ml de agua (sobrará). Dejamos que se temple a temperatura ambiente. Mientras tanto cortamos las fresas y las colocamos sobre la mousse como más nos guste.

Por último, pintamos las fresas con la gelatina aún sin cuajar y devolvemos la tarta a la nevera hasta que la gelatina esté cuajada por completo. Desmoldamos para servir.

¡A disfrutar!

I saw this recipe some time ago in the blog of María Lunarillos and I really wanted to do it. I had made mousse before, but never a cake of this type and I have said one thing, it has been a success. Everything came up on the birthday of "Minilove", she asked me for a strawberry cake and as the heat started ... it seemed like the moment.  Now I also tell you that I really want to go back to making the cake with the wild strawberries from my father's garden, that without wanting to detract from the ones I bought at the greengrocers, they are much richer. I hope you like it.  Ingredients: For the base:

6,3 Oz of oatmeal cookies "digestive type"

1 spoon of sugar

2 tablespoons of sunflower (or any other oil that has almost no flavor)

For the filling:

17,6 Oz of fresh strawberries

8,8 Oz of whipping cream

3,5 Oz of sugar0,5 Oz of gelatin powder

3 eggs

1 pinch of salt

The juice of 1 lemon

For coverage:

Fresh strawberries

80 ml of water

0,01 gr of agar-agar or 0,07 gr of gelatin powder

Recipe for ... depends on how sweet we are. Approximate preparation time: 60 minutes + 1 night for the first rest + 4 hours for the final rest. How do I do it:

We start by preparing the base of the cake with the cookies. We weigh the cookies, put them in a blender and crush them.

Mix the sugar and oil with the crumbs of cookies, until it is homogeneous. 

Lined with baking paper the bottom of a removable mold of 18 cm and extend the biscuit crumbs.  

Press with the fingers to compact it and equalize it over the entire surface. Put the mold in the oven at 320ºF (with air) / 356 ºF (without air) and cook the base for 10 minutes. Take it out and let it be tempered. 

For the filling of strawberry mousse, we wash and clean the strawberries, dry them a little and put them in a saucepan with 1,8 Oz of the sugar in the recipe. Heat over low heat and when boiled let them cook for 10 minutes, so that the liquid is reduced a little.

While the strawberries have just boiled, we hydrated the gelatine in 3-4 tablespoons of cold water.

After 10 minutes, turn off the heat, add lemon juice and hydrated gelatine. We stir to mix well and pass the mixture through a mill to eliminate the granillo of the strawberry. We allow tempering at room temperature.

While the strawberry compote cools we assemble the cream (remember that it has to be very cold) in a robot, mixer or rod mixer. It is better not to mount it very hard, so it mixes better. We mix it with the strawberry puree, little by little, with the help of a spatula and making enveloping movements.

We mount the whites with the salt in a robot or with the rod blender at high speed. When they are very frothy, add to 50 tablespoons the remaining 1,8 Oz of sugar. Beat five minutes and add the meringue to the strawberry mix, now you have to be very careful and do it with the spatula little by little and with enveloping movements.

Pour the mixture into the mold on the cookie base. We lightly tap the mold on the countertop so that the surface is smoothed and we put it in the fridge (covered so that it does not take odors) all night to set it.

After that time we do the coverage, so we clean and cut as many strawberries as we want to put in the coverage. We dry them slightly and reserve.

Prepare the gelatin or agar-agar with 80 ml of water (will be left over). We let it temper at room temperature. Meanwhile we cut the strawberries and place them on the mousse as we like.

Finally, we paint the strawberries with the gelatine still without curdling and return the cake to the fridge until the gelatin is completely curdled. Unmold to serve.

Enjoy!   

[beidealistic-blog]

DOWNTOWN PHOENIX TACOS - A REVIEW

Hi, I’m Azucena.

‍

If there’s one thing I truly know about it’s tacos. Growing up in Yuma, AZ in a Mexican household, I’ve been spoiled with the most authentic and best tasting Mexican food my entire life. When I moved to Phoenix to attend ASU, I encountered one of the greatest dilemmas of my entire life. No where to eat good Mexican food. So I set out on a mission to find the best and affordable tacos. Here’s what I found:

‍

La Frontera 209 N 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85034

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La Frontera has remained a tried and true taco spot of mine. The tacos are so delicious and the people are friendly too. Growing up on Mexico’s border I’ve known authentic Mexican food all my life and moving to Phoenix created a challenge for me. Not being 5 minutes away from a plate of fresh-off-the-grill tacos was difficult. La Frontera fixed my problem. These tacos are simple with fresh corn tortillas, meat, and cabbage/onions. Your options are a red salsa or an avocado salsa (I like to mix the two) and all together it’s an unbeatable flavor. Also, this taco truck is open everyday from 8 AM to 2 AM, you can imagine all the late night taco trips I’ve taken. The only cons are that it’s a cash only establishment and it’s an outside sit down place but you can take your order to-go as well.    

PROS

Very cheap ($2 tacos no tax!)

Complimentary cucumber

Delicious tortilla

Variety of different meats

Also a variety of burritos, tostadas, and tortas.

CONS

Cash only

Outside seating only

‍

‍

Tortas El Güero 2518 N 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006

‍

Tortas El Güero is obviously famous for their tortas but you’re sleeping on the tacos if you haven’t had them yet. At first glance, I thought the tacos were too tiny for such an expensive price. However, when I took my first bite I understood why. Plus, with all the extra meat that falls out you can use your second tortilla to create a whole new taco. The restaurant is really nice inside and the agua frescas were refreshing plus there’s a ton of different complimentary salsas you’re able to taste. Over all, I would see myself going back and showing the restaurant to my friends.

PROS

Variety of salsas (for free)

Can make 2 tacos out of 1 taco

Fresh tasting

Tender meat

Good meat to tortilla ratio

CONS

Expensive ($3 a taco including tax)

Tiny tacos

No guacamole salsa!

Too many toppings for my taste

‍

‍

La Santisima 1919 N 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006

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La Santisima wasn’t even on our list until we were on 16th St and McDowell and I saw the big mystic lady popping out of the wall. Then of course when I saw the word tacos it was no brainer, we had to try this spot. This restaurant that most surprised me. Not only is their menu from all over Mexico but the flavors that they presented me were different but delicious. To begin with, the horchata went beyond just cinnamon and rice milk. They incorporated strawberries, melon, and pecans. I was pleasantly surprised however to me, it wasn’t horchata. It tasted more like a strawberry type of milkshake which I wasn’t mad at. Now for the main event, these tacos were top notch delicious. These were the kind of tacos I only taste when I go visit Mexico’s taco stands. I trust the food so much I would even take my Mexican nana. I do however wish they were less expensive because they were competing with my #1 spot. All in all though, I see myself going back to this spot when I’m feeling a nice dinner.

PROS

DELICIOUS

Wide variety of salsas in the salsa bar

Complimentary chips

Amazing art décor

Has Mexican food from all over Mexico

CONS

On the expensive side ($2.50 a taco and $4 an horchata)

Don’t have traditional horchata

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Federico’s 1621 E Van Buren St, Phoenix, AZ 85034

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Federico’s is the kind of Mexican food someone craves when they want something on the greasy side. I’d only ever had the hard tacos which are very good and then I ordered the soft carne asada taco and I was very surprised. For starters, the taco is absolutely huge. It’s probably the equivalent of two tacos and did have a good flavor. On top featured guacamole and some purple onion and I sprinkled lime on top. The flavor isn’t one that would keep me going back for more but it would satisfy a craving.

***Side note: I've had other items from the menu and WOULD recommend the hard taco plate! They're very good and the beans and rice are delicious.

PROS

Guacamole

Big amount of food for one taco ($2.99 a taco including tax)

Has a drive-thru

Bomb horchata

CONS

Greasy

Not fresh tasting

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Tacos Mich

1602 E McDowell Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85006

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I wanted Tacos Mich to be so much better than what it was. I was very excited for the price and was truly rooting for these tacos to be amazing but the taste fell flat for me. There was barely any meat on the tacos plus they add the onion, cilantro, and salsa for you. For me, it looked thrown together and I didn’t personally like the salsa they put on the taco. When I moved the meat around on the tortilla lots of grease was left over which is something I’m not used to with the tacos I normally eat. On top of that, there were plenty of pieces of fat in the already little meat that I was given. I am willing to give this place another chance to try the other plates they offer but as for the tacos, I wouldn’t recommend them to anyone. The plus side to this was that the agua frescas were delicious.

PROS

Cheap ($1.10 a taco but 75 cents on Wednesdays)

Generally cheap menu

Very good agua frescas

CONS

Bad taste

No salsa bar

Took a long time to be served

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After this taste testing experience I found that all tacos are beautiful in their own way and there are so many different types of variety. Every state in Mexico has their own special formula to create a taco and they should all be given a try. This experience enhanced my love for Mexico's history and look forward to my future taco adventures. -Azucena

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[huihuidesigns]

Those Lazy Hazy Crazy Days of Summer

Gotta love those lazy hazy crazy days of summer.  It’s hard to believe that the summer is almost over.  Hui.1 starts school soon and Hui.3 is due anywhere between right now and and mid-September.  We’ve been keeping cool with Agua Frescas from our local Mexican market.  While Jesse.1 was here for the first half of summer, we actually had more frescas than we did boba.  Funny what pregnancy will do to one’s palette.  But I’ve been really feeling the effects of caffeine since I’ve been cutting down on my tea consumption.  Caffeine interferes with my daily iron pill so I’ve cut way back to the point that I can’t bring myself to buy any more loose leaf tea until I finish a few satchels postpartum.  So hello strawberry, pineapple, and passionfruit frescas.

  This pregnancy has actually been a fairly smooth ride.  With only one doctor visit a month vs every other week with my previous pregnancies, it frees up more time for fun little adventures here and there.  We’ve stopped for ice cream and French fries at the local Dairy Queen, gone to dim sum (of course), and even had a picnic on the outskirts of Knott’s Berry Farm.  We start at the Snoopy store, grab Mrs. Knotts’ fried chicken to-go, then eat in the shade while we watch the rickety wooden roller coaster zip by overhead.  It’s easier to deal with than actually entering the park and we get to do some always needed Snoopy shopping.  I’m also happy to report that I’ve replaced the Charlie Brown mug that Hui.2 broke earlier this summer.

Last week, we ventured out to both the Harveys Seatbelt Bag store and South Coast Plaza.  I have to say how much I’m in love with their new fall collection.  Excuse me as I swoon over the bold jewel tone colors.  You can see Hui.2 makes a very good purse model.  At the mall, we rode on the glass elevators, ate our favorite croissants, and even survived a trip to the Nordstrom MAC counter.  All and all, it was a good day.  I needed to do some nesting shopping and enjoy the freedom before Hui.1 begins the biggest chapter of his life: school.  It’ll be an adjustment for all of us, even without the new baby.  Hui.2 has spent his entire life with his big brother around, so I’m hoping for a smooth transition despite the arrival of a new sibling.  Maybe they’ll remember this summer, but even if they don’t, it’s been remarkably lovely.

The post Those Lazy Hazy Crazy Days of Summer appeared first on Hui Designs.

from Those Lazy Hazy Crazy Days of Summer

[junker-town]

LeBron James made $35 million investing in Blaze Pizza so I had to try it out

If LeBron says it’s good, it has to be good right?

LeBron James invested in Blaze Pizza in 2012 and now Blaze has become the fastest growing food chain in the US of all-time. Classic LeBron move, if you ask me. James started by opening two of his own Blaze restaurants in Chicago and Miami in 2012 and by 2015 he wanted all in with the pizza chain. His now original investment of $1 million has turned into $35 million and growing. LeBron must have really loved his Blaze Pizza to leave his deal with global empire McDonalds for an unknown pizza company. So I went to find out what it was all about.

Blaze is a fast casual restaurant similar to that of Subway or Qdoba where you can make your own meal of choice, or choose from a menu of specialty items. Some quick research showed that LeBron gets SIXTEEN toppings on his Blaze pizzas. This was probably for marketing but I also wouldn’t put it past LeBron to be this extra with his pizza.

On my way to Blaze I had already decided I was not getting 16 freaking toppings on my pizza but I’d still make the most of it. I went a little early to try and beat the lunch crowd and at 11:30am the line was literally already to the door. As I got closer to order, I could hear each guest being asked for their name and if they had been to Blaze before. Every single person said yes.

It was finally my turn to order and I elected to go with the “White Top” pizza. It’s a thin crust pizza with white cream sauce, mozzarella cheese, applewood bacon, chopped garlic, oregano, and arugula. Hello, my love. Most guests around me were building their own pizzas but I was sticking with one of the Signature Pizzas today.

As I was paying at the register I saw my pizza fly into the open-faced oven. It took about four minutes to make which was a little longer than stated on their website but it didn’t bother me. It was long enough for me to make the mango-strawberry agua fresca drink as recommended when you walked into the restaurant. I then spent the other three minutes trying to find the straws for said drink. That wasn't a fault of Blaze, I just couldn't find the straws.

And then I got my pizza. Here it is! I'm not a real-life food critic, so I just want to tell you my pizza was absolutely delicious. The amount of sauce used was perfect. It’s fast-fired but the crust was still crispy. And there was the perfect amount of every topping spread throughout each slice. You know how sometimes when you go to a name brand “build your own burrito” establishment and they skimp on the toppings? Not at Blaze, my friends.

Also, back to this drink I was making. From the door cling, it was labeled a “Delightful Duo” so I made up in my head that I was getting a drink that was mango and strawberry mixed. That wasn’t an option. So I just made my own anyway and oh my goodness it was fantastic. They should just start making this on it’s own and avoid the part of lunch where I pretended to be a fancy bartender.

I would be holding out if I also didn't tell you about the secret gem of Blaze Pizza. The s’more pie. It’s as exactly as it sounds and they throw it in the oven as you wait for your pizza. They’re better than real campfire s’mores and I’m not exaggerating.

Here's the thing. My pizza was incredible but it doesn't really matter which one I got because you can make whatever pizza your heart desires at Blaze and it's going to be incredible. Blaze is good, LeBron is good, and I highly recommend you try this place if you haven’t been there already.

Oh and Staples Center, where the Los Angeles Lakers play basketball, already has a Blaze in-house.

[buyfreshvegetable]

Ideas for Using Fresh Fruit in Drinks

Serving refreshing drinks at your party is sometimes as important as what food you give to your guests. You’ll want to impress and give them something to remember. And you don’t need to just use fruit as a garnish. Let it star in your drinks. Fruit makes a healthy and delicious base ingredient or garnish for an endless variety of different beverages you can serve to your guests.

Here are some ideas for using fresh fruit in drinks:

Fruit smoothies Few people realize how easy fruit smoothies are to concoct. All you need to do is add in a blender and let the party begin. Try mixing a half cup of milk, a half cup of plain yogurt, one cup of your fruit of choice (blueberries, strawberries, bananas) and one tablespoon of honey. Blend these ingredients together until smooth. Pour into a tall glass and garnish with whatever fruit you used in the drink. This is a refreshing end to a meal or in place of dessert.

Agua Fresca This light bodied fruit drink is a traditional Mexican beverage that is commonly sold by street vendors and made from whatever fruit happens to be in season. Start by making your agua fresca mix. For this you’ll need, four cups of sliced and hulled fresh berries, one cup sugar, and one cup water. Place ingredients in a bowl and lightly mash the berries. Cover bowl with plastic film and place in the refrigerator for four hours. Remove the contents and pour into blender. Mix until smooth. Strain the mixture into another bowl and discard the seeds and pulp. Add another seven cups of water to the mixture. Chill for several hours before serving. Add whole berries as a garnish if you like. Variations – you can try using watermelon, pineapple, kiwi, cantaloupe or just about any other fruit you like.

Sangria This traditional Spanish beverage certainly takes advantage of fresh fruit to make a delicious, refreshing mixture. There are many varieties of sangria in white or red. However, this recipe really kicks up the fruit to make a yummy drink that might get you in trouble because it’s so enjoyable. Take one bottle of a light red table wine (nothing chunky or heavy like a merlot or a cabernet sauvignon) and a crisp white wine (like a pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc). Pour together in a large container. Add one cup of sugar, one cup of freshly squeezed orange juice, one fourth cup of freshly squeeze lemon and lime juices, one fourth cup of Grand Marnier liquor, one sliced fresh orange, one fresh sliced lemon, one fresh sliced lime, and a cup of green seedless grapes. Mix well together and let it sit for 4-5 hours. Serve over ice, spooning the liquid out and adding some of the fruit to each glass.

Watermelon Martini Serve up a sweet, refreshing, and unique drink to your guests that will have them begging for more. It’ll take some time to prep this drink, but it’s worth the effort. You’ll need one cup of watermelon juice that’s acquired by pressing the watermelon through cheesecloth to strain the juice from the fruit. Add the watermelon juice into a shaker with half a cup of your favorite non-flavored vodka (although there is watermelon vodka now available that will work fine), one fourth a cup of simple syrup (sugar and water mixed together), and two tablespoons lime juice. Add ice to the shaker and mix well. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a wedge of fresh watermelon. This is the perfect cocktail for a summer party and sure to be a hit with your guests.

Misha Anatolia writes about party planning for various occasions, including bridal shower food [http://ift.tt/2t8GLr9]. Be sure to also visit the food section on Misha’s site about bridal shower ideas [http://ift.tt/2saTdZV] for more recipe ideas for bridal showers and other parties and events.

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[foodtrails25-blog]

Rosemary Focaccia with fresh Cherries,Classic Focaccia topped with fresh Rosemary Cherries, Caramelized Onions with infused Rosemary oil.

After sharing few traditional recipes from the Indian state of Rajasthan,in last week , here I am with a bread recipe from Italy, which is popular for it’s breads and pasta.

What is Focaccia

Easy to make and a crowd pleasure, flavourful Focaccia is Italian flatbread that can be baked in sheet pans, cake pans or even just like that for the rustic look. The real flavour of Focaccia comes with generous addition Extra-Virgin Olive Oil that makes tiny pools on the dimples or characteristic indentations that are formed all over the  dough.

Classic Focaccia is flavoured and topped with fresh Rosemary and sea salt but you flavour it other fresh herbs of your choice, like Thyme, Basil, Oregano. One can play with various toppings on the bread from simple herbs to mushrooms, tomatoes, olives, peppers and fruits like strawberry and Cherries.

Herbs in a Cooking

Today I am here with the fruity topping of Cherries with fresh Rosemary.

Cherries are in season and I we are enjoy the fresh seasonal cherries that I recently got from my visit to local Farmers market.

Rosemary is  a herb and as mentioned above , classic focaccia is topped and flavoured with Rosemary. I love to use various herbs in my cooking. Many times we concentrate in the main ingredients, spices used in a dish but do not pay attention to the small but very important ingredient.. the herbs. Though used in  less amount as compared to the other ingredients, herbs add on to flavour and aroma of a dish. Use of right herb/s in a recipe just like the spices can make or spoil the taste of the final dish. I love using herbs in my cooking, like this twist in Indian Paneer Tikka.. Basil Pesto Paneer Tikka, Summer Cooler..Melon and Basil Aguas Fresca, Cilantro and Mint Chutney which is a staple in every Indian home, roasted bell pepper and garlic chutney which gets it distinct flavour with curry leaves or this Fresh Mint and Peas Rice Pulao.

Apart from adding on to the taste and aroma of a dish, herbs have many medicinal benefits too. Rosemary is a rich of iron, calcium and Vit B-6. It should be used in limited quantity like many other herbs as first it has very overpowering taste and secondly it may cause uneasiness and vomiting in some.

Rosemary was traditionally used to help alleviate muscle pain, improve memory, boost the immune and circulatory system, and promote hair growth. Possible health benefits include improved concentration, digestion, and brain aging.(Source..)

In my Facebook group Foodie Monday Bloghop Herbs are the focus this week. I suggested  the theme #207Herbalicious and we should cook something with the herbs, as it was my turn in the group to suggest the theme. Herbs not the common ones used in Indian cooking like Cilantro, Curry leaves but something different that is not very common in Indian cooking or have been introduced in recent years. Do check out what  magic my fellow bloggers have whipped out with some wonderful herbs.

What we need to make Rosemary Focaccia with Cherries

This Focaccia has the goodness of Whole Wheat Flour and infused Rosemary Oil with fresh Cherries and more fresh rosemary as topping.

Usually All Purpose FLour(APF)/Maida is used to make Focaccia, but here I have used Whole Wheat. I have limited the use of APF in my cooking and baking  as it has zero nutritional value and replace it with other nutritional flours.

Fresh Rosemary Sprigs, cherries and yeast along with salt and sugar. Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVVO) is used for the fat part and gives the bread it’s characteristic flavour. Use a good quality EVOO for making Focaccia.

Substitutes

Any other fresh herb like Thyme, Basil can be used  or incase you do not have fresh herbs used the dried ones.

I like to use Instant Yeast for baking, you can use, Active Dry yeast also, but first activate it before adding to flour. check out these Bread Kulcha recipe where I have explained how to use Dry Active yeast.

In place of fresh Cherries one can use strawberries or any other topping like cherry tomatoes,peppers or sauteed mushrooms. Or you can skip and making it just the Classic version without any toppings.

Instead of Whole Wheat flour(WWF) you can use Maida/APF too, or both in 1:1 ratio. When using only ApF adjust the amount of water used as WWF absorbs more water than APF. For every 200g or 1 Cup of APF use 120ml of Water.

Some important steps to keep in mind for a soft and perfectly baked Focaccia

Measure your ingredients properly.

Knead the dough well. Even if you are using stand mixer , knead for a few minutes with hand too.

Keep the dough to proof well covered either with a cling film or a damp cloth not wet and in a warm place.

Proofing time may differ depending on the weather and climatic conditions, so be patient. Let the dough double up on first proof , it may take 1-2 hrs or more in winters.

Let’s make Rosemary Focaccia with Cherries now..

Gather all the ingredients at one place.

In a mixing bowl, take flour, add yeast, salt and sugar to it. Make a well in center and add water slowly and gradually.

Mix the flour and  keep it for 10 minutes.

Now add infused olive oil and herbs and start kneading the dough. Knead until you get smooth dough, take about 10-15 minutes when doing with hand.

If using stand mixer, knead it for 10 minutes on medium speed, then take out the dough on work surface and ead with hands for another 5 minutes.

Take a bowl, oil it nicely and transfer the dough to it.Cover it with a damp towel or cling film and keep it at a warm place to proof.

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Once the dough doubles up in size(1-2 hrs) approx. 1.5 hrs, transfer on the work surface and knead it lightly.

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Line the pan with oil,that you are using to bake focaccia, transfer the dough to it and lightly spread the dough onto the pan. Or, roughly shape it with hand  for the rustic look. Cover again the pan or bread with cling film and let it sit for another 20-30 minutes. It will again rise and double up.

Now lightly knock the dough down with knuckles or make indentations with fingers. Do not press too tightly on the dough as it with inflate it. Make dimples, add toppings.

Drizzle more (1-2 tbsp) infused EVOO before baking.

Bake at 400 ºF or 200 ºC for 15-20 minutes. See the bread rising beautifully. Take it out when it starts to just getting brown.

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For Infused Olive Oil

Take EVVO in a pan and heat it till warm enough. Add the fresh rosemary sprigs or any other herb that you are using. You can also add fresh garlic cloves for the garlic flavour. I did not use it as I like to add garlic powder for baking in breads and  pizza bases which I add directly in dough.

Keep the oil covered, till it cools down and as the aroma of Rosemary. Filter it in a bottle and use it in your salad dressings, breads and pastas.

For Toppings..

Wash and pat dry the cherries. Cut into half or quarters and take out the seeds.

To caramelize onions, thinly slice the onions and saute in oil in a a pan till light brown. Add as topping when ready to bake.

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Rosemary Focaccia with Cherries

Rosemary Focaccia with fresh Cherries,Classic Focaccia topped with fresh Rosemary Cherries, Caramelized Onions with infused Rosemary oil. Learn how to make Focaccia wh step by step procedure

1 Cup Whole Wheat Flour (200g)

½ tsp Yeast (5gm)

150 ml Water (just warm enough to touch)

½ tsp Sugar

¼ tsp Salt

2 tbsp Rosemary Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oil (+more for drizzling)

2 Fresh Rosemary Sprigs

1/4 Cup Finely sliced Onions

Fresh Cherries(cut in halves and pitted)

1 tsp Olive oil for Frying Onions

In a mixing bowl, take flour, add yeast, salt and sugar to it. Make a well in center and add water slowly and gradually.

Mix the flour and  keep it for 10 minutes.

Now add infused olive oil and herbs and start kneading the dough. Knead until you get smooth dough, take about 10-15 minutes when doing with hand.

If using stand mixer, knead it for 10 minutes on medium speed, then take out the dough on work surface and ead with hands for another 5 minutes.

Take a bowl, oil it nicely and transfer the dough to it.Cover it with a damp towel or cling film and keep it at a warm place to proof.

Once the dough doubles up in size(1-2 hrs) approx. 1.5 hrs, transfer on the work surface and knead it lightly.

Preheat oven at 400°F or 200°C

Grease pan with oil,that you are using to bake focaccia, transfer the dough to it and lightly spread the dough onto the pan. Or, roughly shape it with hand  for the rustic look. Cover again the pan or bread with cling film and let it sit for another 20-30 minutes. It will again rise and double up.

Now lightly knock the dough down with knuckles or make indentations with fingers. Do not press too tightly on the dough as it with inflate it. Make dimples, add toppings.

Drizzle more (1-2 tbsp) infused EVOO before baking.

Bake at 400 ºF or 200 ºC for 15-20 minutes. See the bread rising beautifully. Take it out when it starts to just getting brown.

For Infused Olive Oil

Take EVVO in a pan and heat it till warm enough. Add the fresh rosemary sprigs or any other herb that you are using. You can also add fresh garlic cloves for the garlic flavour. I did not use it as I like to add garlic powder for baking in breads and  pizza bases which I add directly in dough.

Keep the oil covered, till it cools down and as the aroma of Rosemary. Filter it and keep it in a glass bottle with an air-tight lid or cap. Use as required.

For Toppings..

Wash and pat dry the cherries. Cut into half or quarters and take out the seeds.

To caramelize onions, thinly slice the onions and saute in oil in a a pan till light brown. Add as topping when ready to bake.

Substitutes

Any other fresh herb like Thyme, Basil can be used  or incase you do not have fresh herbs used the dried ones.

I like to use Instant Yeast for baking, you can use, Active Dry yeast also, but first activate it before adding to flour. check out these Bread Kulcha recipe where I have explained how to use Dry Active yeast.

In place of fresh Cherries one can use strawberries or any other topping like cherry tomatoes,peppers or sauteed mushrooms. Or you can skip and making it just the Classic version without any toppings.

Instead of Whole Wheat flour(WWF) you can use Maida/APF too, or both in 1:1 ratio. When using only ApF adjust the amount of water used as WWF absorbs more water than APF. For every 200g or 1 Cup of APF use 120ml of Water.

Do try this Focaccia bread with Rosemary and Cherries. It can be served as an appetizer in your parties and get together. Kids love to take this soft and moist bread with their favourite toppings for lunch. Pair it up with this cheesy dip Cheesy dip with Herbs. One to thing to remember that the texture of Whole Wheat Bread is denser than the one with All-purpose flour, but it more healthier option with compromising on the taste of the bread. It is equally delcious and yumm as the ones you get at your favourite cafe or bakery!!

Do give me your feedback about the post and recipe whenever you make it.

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Thanks for stopping by and keep coming back!!

      Rosemary Focaccia with Cherries Rosemary Focaccia with fresh Cherries,Classic Focaccia topped with fresh Rosemary Cherries, Caramelized Onions with infused Rosemary oil.

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Summer is calling, and this Paleo, dairy-free and refined sugar-free piña colada smoothie is just the thing to get you in the right mindset! It’s the perfect summer beverage, and you can even add a little booze if you’re in the celebrating mood or just enjoy the tropical goodness sans alcohol. Either way, kick your feet up and enjoy the vacation beverage vibes with this refreshing piña colada smoothie! 

Tips For A Super Creamy Smoothie

There’s just something extra special about a smoothie that is ultra creamy and almost like a milkshake! Am I right, or amiright!? A couple of tips for creating extra creamy goodness are to use chilled full fat coconut milk and frozen fruit! I like to break my bananas into small chunks and then freeze them. And for this recipe, I used frozen chunks of pineapple as well. You can get a fresh pineapple, and then chop and freeze… or…save yourself a little time and just buy already chopped frozen pineapple. That’s what I did!

Vacation Vibes

You know when you’re on vacation and you enjoy all the tasty beverages while you sit back and relax in the sun or a shady spot near the pool or ocean? Well, that feeling is what it is like every time I make this piña colada smoothie! The first sip makes me feel like time stops just for a second and that I’m right on a beach somewhere warm and tropical. Right now I’m imagining the beach in Maui. Where would you like this piña colada smoothie to transport you to?

Tropical Flavors

The combination of coconut, banana and pineapple give this refreshing piña colada smoothie all the tropical flavors that make you feel like you’re on vacation. Add a little vanilla and lime juice and your tastebuds will be dancing and swaying like the summer breeze through palm trees. It’s time. Time to take a moment to forget whatever is on your to-do list, whatever needs to get done around the house and just indulge for a moment in this tropical piña colada smoothie! Your soul will thank you!

Some Other Summer Recipes To Try

PEACH BERRY PINA COLADA SMOOTHIE

WATERMELON BLUEBERRY LIME POPSICLES

BANANA ALMOND BUTTER SMOOTHIE

GRILLED FRUIT KABOB SALAD

STRAWBERRY BASIL WATERMELON AGUA FRESCA

NO CHURN PISTACHIO ICE CREAM

PISTACHIO MATCHA MILK

PEACH SALSA

HONEY LAVENDER LEMONADE

Your Turn To Try Our Piña Colada Smoothie

Need a quick vacation from your day? Blend up this cool and refreshing piña colada smoothie! Leave a comment below and let us know what you think. Then, take a photo and tag us on Instagram @realsimplegood, so we can check out! Also, give us a follow on Instagram if you don’t already! We’d love to stay connected!

LIKE THIS RECIPE? SHARE IT NOW OR PIN IT FOR LATER!

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Piña Colada Smoothie (Paleo, Dairy-Free + Refined Sugar-Free)

Summer is calling, and this Paleo, dairy-free and refined sugar-free piña colada smoothie is just the thing to get you in the right mindset! It’s the perfect summer beverage, so kick your feet up and enjoy the vacation beverage vibes with this refreshing piña colada smoothie! 

For the blender:

12 oz full fat coconut milk

1 cup frozen pineapple chunks

1/2 frozen banana

1 tsp vanilla

1 lime, juice of

Large pinch of sea salt

Optional toppings:

Unsweetened shredded coconut

Pineapple chunks

Raspberries

Place all of the blender ingredients in the blender, in the order listed above. Blend on high until smooth and creamy. 

Pour into glasses and top with your favorite toppings. Enjoy! 

Piña Colada Smoothie (Paleo, Dairy-Free + Refined Sugar-Free) Summer is calling, and this Paleo, dairy-free and refined sugar-free piña colada smoothie is just the thing to get you in the right mindset!