ML Interest Tag: lemon-zest

16 Things from Trader Joe’s That Picky Eaters Will Love

by Karly Wood

There’s a special place in our hearts for parents of picky eaters. Mealtimes prove extra challenging, but no surprise to anyone, Trader Joe’s is here to save the day. We’ve rounded up tasty snacks and meal ideas that are so delicious that even your most discerning eaters will chow down. Keep reading to see our favorite things at Trader Joe’s for picky eaters.

Pizza Dough

 

Whether your little is anti-topping or even anti-cheese, Trader Joe’s pizza dough will come in super handy. Choose from regular or garlic dough, then have a pizza night where everyone can make their pie the way they want. At $1.49 each, this makes family dinner not only easy but cheap, too.

Banana Chips

 

It’s hard to turn down these sweet and crunchy banana chips. Made with minimal ingredients, even a picky eater will think these are a treat, rather than a healthy snack.

Trader Joe’s Colorful Carrot Coins

 

Ok here us out: not only do carrots become super sweet when roasted (which makes them more kid-friendly), but we’re pretty sure your picky eater will love that these “coins” also come in fun colors!

PB & J Bar

 

When it seems like all you’re making is PB & J, give yourself a break with these TJ’s bars. Each one packs 8 grams of whole grain, is gluten free and way less messy than your regular sandwich. They’re also great for on the go!

Bamba Peanut Snack

Trader Joe's Bamba Snacks

Trader Joe's version of the popular Israeli snack food, Bamba is a feast for the senses. Made with corn grits, peanut paste, palm oil and salt, the snack is light and airy and oh so delicious. Think: cheese puff but with peanut butter!

Can you believe it's only $.99 for a bag? Time to stock up on some Bamba!

Organic Popcorn with Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Trader Joe's organic popcorn
Karly Wood

What kid doesn't enjoy a handful of popcorn? While not your standard movie theater version, this organic popped corn with accompanying organic extra virgin olive oil is a fancy snack that's perfect for adults or kids. Pack in a lunch or take on the go––there's nowhere this popcorn can't go.

A large bag is only $1.99 in the snack section at Trader Joe's.

Original Savory Thin Crackers

trader joe's savory thin crackers
Karly Wood

Enjoyed a la mode, with cheese or in a dip, there's nothing these original Savory Thin Crackers can't go. The gluten-free snack is a great size for kids' lunches and perfect for portion control.

A pack of these tasty crackers is only $1.69 in the cracker and snack aisle.

Trader Joe's Contemplates Inner Peas

trader joe's inner peas

These baked pea snacks couldn't get much simpler! Made from actual peas and shaped like a pea pod with a touch of salt, your picky eater most likely won't even realize they're getting their dose of green veggies in this tasty snack.

A bag of these is only $1.49!

Organic Lowfat Organic Squishers

Trader Joe's Yogurt Squishers
Karly Wood

Sneak in that healthy dairy to your picky eater's palette with cherry or strawberry yogurt squishes. The low-fat snack packs calcium in an ideal on-the-go squeeze package that kids find equally fun as they are delicious. You can even freeze them for a cold treat! 

An 8-pack of squishes is only $3.19 in the refrigerated dairy section at TJ's.

Organic Fruit Wraps

trader joe's fruit wraps

Oh, hello $.49 snack foods! These Trader Joe's organic fruit wraps (or fruit leathers, as they are also known) come in four fruity flavors and are finger-licking good. Plus, they're ideal for packed lunches and snacks because they don't get smashed!

Stock up on these $.49 wraps near the cash register or snack aisle.

Hummus & Pita Chip Snack Pack

This package of two, four-ounce trays is filled with TJ's popular Mediterranean hummus and their own pita chips on the other. Easy to slip into a lunchbox or grab for an on-the-go snack on the way to after-school activities. 

Gluten Free Mac & Cheese

Move over gluten-free Mac & Cheese, TJ's has just released a brand new Gluten-Free Mac & Cheese, and it's SO MUCH BETTER. Made from a blend of Havarti, Swiss, Cheddar and Gouda, this frozen dinner heats up like it was made fresh. It's creamy, flavorful and way better than other boxed versions.

Pack your freezer with several boxes of these for just $3.49.

Turkey Corn Dogs

Trader Joe's turkey corn dogs

One of our favorite things from Trader Joe's is their Turkey Corn Dog. Made from an all-turkey dog with no added nitrates, and then dipped in a savory batter, good luck stopping your littles from eating them with gusto.

A pack of 4 is only $2.99 in the freezer section.

Mandarin Orange Chicken

It's no secret that Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken is a real crowd pleaser––it wins for most popular product year after year for the retailer. The sweet and savory frozen dinner is a fan favorite for both adults and kids, even picky ones. Plump chicken is covered in crispy breading and then coated in a delicious sauce.

Pick up this easy dinner for $4.99 in the freezer section.

Ramen Soups

The subtle yet unique flavors in two of Trader Joe's newest products, make these Miso soups perfect for picky eaters. Noodles and savory spices plus a packet of sesame oil make this stand out from other ramen cups and make all the difference.

Choose from either Chicken or Miso Ramen cups for just $1.29 a piece.

Bean & Rice Burritos

trader joe's products for picky eaters

Picky meat eaters will chow down on these bean and rice burritos. Made with just the basics, no artificial flavors or preservatives, AND 99% fat free, everyone wins when these burritos are for dinner.

A pack of 2 is only $2.99 in the freezer section.

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New Spring Trader Joe’s Items That Will Fly Off Shelves

by Kate Loweth

Spring at Trader Joe’s brings the cutest plants and lemon everything

Warmer weather, beautiful blooms, tasty treats—that’s right, spring is almost springing! In typical fashion, there are tons of new Trader Joe’s items for the season that will have you more than ready to make a grocery run. With all the lemon products hitting the shelves, we can tell that TJ’s is all in. There are even a few products perfect for school lunches on the list.

Assorted Foliage in a Bunny

Trader Joe's spring products

These cuties are a top pick for spring every year, and you’ll want to grab one before your store sells out for the season. They come with a variety of plant options so you might have to get yourself a colony.

 

Candy Coated Dark Chocolate Almonds

These dark chocolate covered almonds are some of Trader Joe's new items for spring

These babies are cute enough for Easter baskets but tasty enough to keep for yourself. They tend to sell out well before the holiday, so snag now before they hop away.

 

Gourmet Jelly Beans

Trader Joe's spring products

Just in time for Easter basket stuffing, these big bags of gourmet jelly beans have hit the shelves. You’ll love that they have no artificial colors or flavors. The kids will just love them, period.

 

Peas & Carrots Sour Gummy Candies

Trader Joe's spring products

You’ll definitely be able to get the kids to eat their peas and carrots when they come in gummy form. The peas are like sour Skittles and the carrots are a traditional sour gummy candy. Yes, we tried them so that we could report back (that’s the official story, at least).

 

Pastel Hyacinths

Trader Joe's spring products

If you’re heading to a spring party this weekend, bring along one of these colorful hyacinths. They’ll dress up any doorstep!

 

Cheery Lemon Animal Crackers

Trader Joe's spring products

We’ve never seen these cuties on the shelves before and we know that the kids will go wild to find them in their lunchbox this spring.

 

Raspberry Kringle

Trader Joe's spring products

Either you love Kringles or you LOVE Kringles. There’s no in-between. The spring flavor is raspberry and it tops our list for sure. Perfect for breakfast or to share as an after-school snack.

 

Lemon Mini Sheet Cake

Trader Joe's spring products

We don’t blame you if this is one of those treats that you don’t share with the kids. You can always find the vanilla version of this cake at Trader Joe’s but the lemon sheet cake is our favorite. It packs just the right amount of sour/sweet punch.

 

Springle Jangle

The spring version of this holiday snack mix is cute to have in a bowl for the next party you are planning. It is a mix of yogurt-coated pretzels, butter toffee peanuts, milk and dark chocolate peanut butter cups, broken pieces of dark chocolate Joe-Joe’s, and nonpareils.

 

Scented Candle Trio

Trader Joe's spring products

We’re a sucker for all the candles at Trader Joe’s and this one instantly made its way into our cart. You’ll get tiny tins of raspberry/rose, rhubarb/bamboo, and lemon verbena. The lemon is our favorite, naturally.

 

Mini Succulents

Trader Joe's spring products

Is it wrong to buy a succulent every time you visit Trader Joe’s? We think not. These cuties were looking extra spring-like with tiny flowers sprouting out of them. Just what you need to get you through the last dreary months before summer comes around.

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The Best Pizza in San Diego

by Aimee Della Bitta

Dishing on the best pizza spots in San Diego that the whole family will love

Best known for its fish tacos, craft brews and tasty juice bars, San Diego is quietly leveling up its pizza game too. And, since most families agree that the perfect pie is an instant mood booster, we’re thrilled to share the best pizza joints in the county. From artisan pizzas in Little Italy to authentic Chicago slices, keep reading for the 12 best pizza spots in San Diego that will have the whole family rejoicing, “That’s amore!”

Buona Forchetta: After biting into a slice of pizza at Buona Forchetta you’ll immediately understand why the business, that started as a small Italian restaurant nestled on a corner in South Park, has grown into a “family of restaurants throughout the county. The owners have mastered the Neapolitan style pie—think blistered crusts, San Marzano tomato sauce, and five-star olive oil. The pies are simple, allowing high-quality ingredients like fresh buffalo mozzarella, basil, and everyone’s favorite salami to shine. If you’re starving and want to treat the kids to an appetizer try the pizzelle, a deep-fried pizza dough (like a pizza before the pizza).

South Park, Liberty Station & Encinitas
Online: buonaforchettasd.com

URBN Pizza: For delicious coal-fired pizza, this is your pizza place. Their craft pies have a paper-thin crust and toppings that range from the simple pepperoni to the more complex and rich-tasting (B)URBN BBQ Chicken or fresh littleneck clams. Or if you really want something new, try the famed garlic mashed potato and bacon pie. Good to know, the pizza is oblong, so you will have both triangular and square pieces. If you’re looking to add some greens to your meal, the URBN Salad is an excellent choice!

Vista, Encinitas, Del Mar Heights, North Park & San Diego
Online: urbn.com

Blue Ribbon: Slip into a booth in this cozy Encinitas spot after a long day and the whole family will exhale. The restaurant is welcoming and the pies are “blue ribbon” worthy. Be sure to try their “Signature” pizza which has lemon EVOO, fresh mozzarella, ricotta, Parm-Reg, lemon zest, red onion, and basil. Don’t leave without trying the butterscotch pudding with sea-salt caramel and housemade whipped cream.

897 S. Coast Highway
Encinitas
Online: blueribbonpizzeria.com

Monello: Order the Monello pizza special to satisfy your pizza craving! It comes with spinach, roasted bell peppers, sausage, and a bunch of cheese. Half-pints will happily dig into the Margherita pizza. Also, for dessert, the chocolate custard with berries or the gelato made daily make the meal complete!

750 W Fir St., Ste. 102 B
San Diego
Online: lovemonello.com

7-Mile Kitchen: Where to eat pizza after a visit to LEGOLAND? Try 7-Mile Kitchen, named for Carlsbad’s seven miles of coastline. The pizzas are crafted with house-made dough and baked in a wood-fired pizza oven. Their gluten-free pizza is one of the best tasting around. You’ll also find rotating taps of San Diego’s favorite local, craft beers. And finally, top off dinner with a scoop from their gelato bar.

5420 Grand Pacific Dr
Carlsbad
Online: 7milekitchen.com

Sisters Pizza: Voted runner-up for Best Pizza in San Diego Magazines in San Diego Magazines’ latest poll, Sisters Pizza is making a name for itself throughout the city. Established in loving memory of Kate Green, the older Sisters’ sister,  the community-focused pizza restaurant delivers on its passion for pizza and how sharing a slice brings together family and friends. They offer east coast-style pizza you can order by the pie or by the slice, as well as a full Italian-inspired menu with plenty of kid-friendly options. Most pizzas are available gluten-free and come 16″, 18″ or 20″.

3603 Fourth Ave. (corner of 4th & Brookes)
San Diego
Online: sisterspizzasd.com

Leftys Pizza: Only true Chicago expats can deliver the deep-dish beasts that land on your table at Lefty’s Pizza. The husband-wife duo moved to San Diego from the Windy City and strive to bring the best Chicago-style pizza along with a few of their home-town city’s other infamous street treats like Chicago Hot Dogs and Chicago Polish Sausage Dogs to San Diegans. Bite into the “Meaty Pie” or the “Monster of the Midway” and you’ll know they’ve succeeded.

North Park & Mission Hills
Online: leftyspizza.com 

Pizzo’s Pizzeria & Wine Bar: This Eastlake spot is the perfect place for families to sit down for an authentic Italian pizza in the South Bay. Pizzo’s is beautiful inside with huge windows that provide a great view of the city. Outside you’ll find patio seating with a grassy area for the kids to play. Besides tempting slices heaping with cheese, your fam will enjoy fresh huge salads with shaved parmesan too. Try their Salsiccia or fennel sausage pizza with roasted peppers, basil, roasted onions, and fresh mozzarella with organic tomato sauce.

2322 Proctor Valley Rd.
Chula Vista
Online: pizzospizzeria.com

Bronx Pizza: Craving a genuine New York slice? Bronx Pizza has been serving New York-style thin-crust pizza to San Diego since 1997.  Sit down at this family-friendly, casual spot and take in a little slice of the East Coast while you gaze up at the New York memorabilia that adorns the walls. Not sure which pizza to try? The Whitestone and the Bronx Deluxe are both local favorites. 

111 Washington St.
San Diego
Online: bronxpizza.com

Pauly’s Pizza Joint: This friendly, laid-back pizza place known for its thin, crispy New York crust draws in families from all over the county. With outdoor seating, your family can enjoy a fun slice of Christmas Pizza (spinach, bacon, pepperoni, garlic and feta cheese) in the sunshine any time of year. Kiddos also like their Hawaiian-style slices.

6780 Miramar Rd. Ste.105
San Diego
Online: paulyspizzajoint.com

Napizza: Being square is part of the fun at Napizza, where you order by the slice and can try all the varieties. The square slices of pie contain natural, organic ingredients that are sourced locally. A healthy option the Veggy Festa, with fresh veggies or The Bolognese pizza, a savory combo of ground beef, homemade tomato sauce and mozzarella are favorites. Try their delicious combos with fresh soup or salad too.

Little Italy & Encinitas
Online: na-pizza.com

Forchettabouddit: For an easy night out and a mouthwatering pie, stop by Forchettabouddit in Encinitas. The north county restaurant is part of the Bueno Forchetta family and serves NY-style pizza and classic Italian cuisine like 10″ subs, fresh hand-made pasta and more. It’s a no-frills, family-friendly spot that also happens to have one of the best gluten-free pizza options in all of San Diego.

250 N Coast Hwy.
Encinitas
Online: buonaforchettasd.com/forchettabouddit

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That’s Amore! 15 Italian Recipes Kids Will Love

by Karly Wood

When it comes to trying out international cuisine, parents can rest easy in diving into Italian food. Flavorful sauce that hides veggies, noodles and cheesy appetizers help kids whet their appetite for this Mediterranean fare. We’ve rounded up everything from homemade focaccia and Arancini to the softest almond cookies ever. Keep reading to see easy recipes that will have your kids diving into Italian food for life.

Focaccia Bread

Baking a Moment

Fluffy and flavorful, most kids can't shy away from a nice piece of Focaccia. Made with lots of olive oil and rosemary, this version from Baking a Moment pairs perfect with all your upcoming Italian dishes!

Bruschetta

Chelsea's Messy Apron

Whether you need a quick appetizer or just a fresh snack, getting kids to eat Bruschetta can be easier than you think! Chelsea's Messy Apron combines traditional ingredients like grilled bread, tomatoes and basil into a simple recipe that may just get your kids to gobble up fruit without realizing it.

Caprese

Bryony Elena via Unsplash

It only take four ingredients to make a Caprese salad (and you probably have most of them from whipping up that bruschetta!). This easy app comes together quickly, looks pretty and all that cheese could be the key to getting your kids to try it out.

Arancini

Happily Eva After

No, those aren't meatballs: they're fried balls of risotto! This supremely delicious recipe from Happily Eva After brings this savory and filling appetizer or snack to your table with just 30 minutes of cook time.

Risotto

Julien Pianetti via Unsplash

Risotto is a staple in Italian cuisine. While it takes time and attention, the result is creamy and cheesy deliciousness. Head over to Walks of Italy to get all the tips for making an authentic version at home.

Braciole

Charlotte Fashion Plate

Say hello to this tender meat dish that kids will gobble up. Charlotte Fashion Plate shares an amazingly savory dish using flank steak, cheese and hearty tomatoes for this show stopping recipe.

Classic Italian Meatballs

Family Style Food

Did somebody say meatballs? Easy to make and even easier to gobble up, this recipe from Family Style Food will have you tossing these together on a regular basis.

Pasta Fagioli Soup

Garlic & Zest

Filling yet light at the same time, this bean soup is the stuff Italian dreams are made of. We love this recipe from Garlic & Zest which comes with a hearty side of hacks that will up your cooking game.

Italian Wedding Soup

Carlsbad Cravings

Good luck getting your kids not to mow through these adorable mini meatballs! Carlsbad Cravings' classic soup is the perfect addition to a chilly night. Don't forget the side of crusty bread!

Margherita Pizza

Cookie Kate

Of course we didn't forget the pizza! Even cheese-only lovers will love this flavorful yet simple recipe from Cookie + Kate.

Struffoli

Pina Bresciani

Perfect for holiday baking (or really anytime of year), these Italian honey balls will become a family fave. The deep fried dough balls require few ingredients and are super fun to make with the kids (just watch out for that hot oil!). Head to Pina Bresciani to get a recipe you can use now. 

Taralli Dolce Di Pasqua

The Monday Box

You need these Easter cookies in your life (and not just during the spring!). The Monday Box's recipe for these sprinkly-treats is easy to follow, fun to eat and makes the perfect afternoon activity with the kids.

Italian Twist Cookies

An Italian In My Kitchen

Parents who need a little sweet with their morning coffee will love An Italian In My Kitchen's recipe for these twist cookies. While they take a little patience waiting for the dough to rise, you'll be able to give yourself a pat on the back for making these cookies by hand.

Pignoli Cookies

Foodtasia

Chewy and soft, these pine nut-topped cookies are an Italian tradition. They are deeply almond-flavored and are naturally gluten and dairy free! Head to Foodtasia to snag the recipe.

Pasticcini di Mandorle

The Monday Box

You only need four ingredients to whip up these flourless soft almond cookies from The Monday Box. Grab your almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, lemon zest and eggs and bring everything together by hand for these delicious cookies that go great with coffee.

––Karly Wood

 

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Make This for Breakfast: Lemon Poppyseed Buckwheat Pancakes

by Erin Lem

buckwheat-pancakes

If your’e a fan of lemon poppy seed muffins, this recipe is sure to please. Courtesy Lisa Viger, author of Easy, Affordable, Raw: How to Go Raw on $10 a Day, and raw food expert, these buckwheat pancakes make for the perfect weekend breakfast or brunch dish. Serve with agave or date syrup.

Makes 4-6 pancakes

Ingredients:
1 cup (100 g) ground buckwheat groats, soaked and dried
½ cup (50 g) ground flaxseeds
Pinch salt
½ cup (115 g) apple puree
3 tablespoons (45 ml) lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
¼ cup (60 ml) agave
3 tablespoons (30 g) date paste
¼ cup (60 ml) water
2 tablespoons (15 g) poppy seeds

Method:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the buckwheat, flaxseeds, and salt. Add the apple puree and then the lemon juice, lemon zest, agave, date paste, and water. Stir until well combined. Fold in the poppy seeds.

2. Using about 3 tablespoons (45 ml) of batter for each pancake, scoop out pancakes onto a lined dehydrator tray, making 2- to 3-inch (5- to-7.5 cm) rounds that are about ½-inch (1-cm) thick. Dehydrate at 118°F (48°C) for 6 hours. Peel from the tray liner and flip over onto an unlined dehydrator tray. Continue drying until the outside is beginning to get a little crisp and the inside is still a bit mushy.

3. Pancakes are best straight out of the dehydrator, but they can be kept in a lidded container in the refrigerator for up to a few days.

Nutrition FYI: Buckwheat
Buckwheat isn’t a grain. It’s a fruit seed related to rhubarb and sorrel. It’s high in manganese, tryptophan, magnesium, copper, and fiber, and it has been linked to a lower total serum cholesterol, lower LDL cholesterol, and lower blood pressure. Buckwheat works in synergy with vitamin C and contains flavonoids and antioxidants.

Do you cook or bake with buckwheat? Tell us your experiences in the Comments below!

EASY, AFFORDABLE RAW [Quarry Books, August 2014, $24.99 US / $27.99 Can] kick starts the raw food lifestyle with everything readers need to know. It provides tips for organizing the kitchen, the right foods to buy, and how to prepare each ingredient. Author Lisa Viger, blogger and raw food expert, easily breaks down the raw food lifestyle including health and environmental benefits of a raw food diet. She also answers common questions about nutrition, protein, and energy. Buy the book on Amazon.com.

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Starbucks’ Newest Macchiato Will Make You Feel Like You’re Floating on a Cloud

by Erica Loop

Get ready for a new twist on an old classic: the Starbucks Cloud Macchiato recently hit store menus, making it a welcome addition to the coffee retailer’s bounty of caffeinated goodness. Read on to learn more about the luxe layers of this new must-have pick.

Starbucks first introduced the macchiato on their first menu in the ’80s, with a caramel version following a decade later. Throughout the years, the traditional Italian espresso drink morphed into more flavorful versions, with coconut milk and cinnamon almond milk flavors. The newest macchiato to hit Starbucks stores features two flavors, Caramel and Cinnamon, along with a fluffy layer of Cloud foam—made with eggs whites!

If you’re wondering what eggs have to do with your coffee drink, think meringue. The drink draws inspiration from the popular Spanish “leche merengada” or “meringue milk” summer beverage. Starbucks research team member Erin Marinan said in a statement, “The original Spanish beverage combines cinnamon and lemon zest, with a frothy texture which inspired us to reinvent the beverage as a macchiato.”

Marinan added, “The texture of the Cloud Macchiato is luxurious and by adding espresso and our Starbucks signature caramel cross-hatch, we’re making it ours and opening up even more ways we can bring new beverage experiences to our customers.”

The Cloud Macchiato is available now in iced or hot versions at all Starbucks locations.

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: Courtesy of Starbucks

 

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How to Make the Perfect Pink Lemonade Cupcakes

by Amber Guetebier

Great news! Summertime’s favorite drink also comes in cupcake form. These sweet and just-a-bit tart cupcakes are perfect for summer birthdays, BBQs or any time you want to treat the littles. Garnish with lemon wedges or fresh raspberries and a tiny straw to get that uber-cute vibe right before you stuff them into your mouth. Scroll down to see our editor’s secrets to making the perfect batch.

You will need:

Your fave lemon cake recipe (see ours below)

Red food coloring or fresh (pureed raspberries)

The perfect buttercream frosting (click here) + lemon extract + zest

Garnish (lemon wedges, raspberries, sprinkles, cute straws…you decide!)

The cake:

1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp. baking powder

1/4 tsp. baking soda

1/8 tsp. salt

1/2 cup sugar

1/3 cup frozen pink lemonade concentrate

3 egg whites

1/4 cup canola or coconut oil

1-2 tsp. lemon juice

1-2 tsp. lemon zest

1/2 cup milk

3 tbsp. raspberry puree (for the coloring)*

*You can also use red food coloring, about 3 drops, but reduce flour to 1 cup only

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Step 2: Grease a 12-cupcake pan (or line with cupcake liners).

Step 3: Mix together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and sugar. Set aside.

Step 4: Whisk together egg whites, lemonade concentrate, oil, and lemon juice. Add milk. (Adding the lemon mix to the milk may cause curdling, which is okay because most recipes call for buttermilk. Adding the milk last helps cut down on this a bit). Add lemon zest.

Step 5: In a stand mixer alternate the wet mix and dry mix until well blended. (About 1 minute on medium speed).

Step 6: Add raspberry puree and blend for 2 minutes at medium speed until batter is smooth.

Step 7: Bake at 350 for 20-25 minutes (or until cupcake tops spring back when touched lightly)

Step 8: Make the frosting while the cupcakes cool.

The frosting: 

Use the recipe found here, but add:

1 tbsp. lemon zest

1/8 tsp. lemon extract

1 tbsp. raspberry puree* or 2 drops red food coloring

*You may need to add a little bit of extra powdered sugar to thicken the frosting once you’ve added the puree.

Step 9: Once the cupcakes have cooled, frost each cupcake. If you want it to look fancy, use a piping bag or Ziplock bag to add the frosting in a spiral. Or invest in a cupcake decorating tip-set, so you can look like you know what you are doing!

Step 10: Garnish with lemon wedges, sprinkles or a single raspberry and/or a small straw (just cut a paper straw in half) to make it look more “lemonade-y.”

Step 11: Eat a cupcake! Great job!

What’s your go-to lemon cake recipe? Tell us in a comment below. 

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Roasted Chicken with Tomatoes and Olives

by scott wardell

One pan, (about) one hour, one meal –  this roasted chicken dish is #1 in our book for taste, texture and time with its juicy tomatoes, crispy chicken skin and minimal prep and clean up. Read on for the delicoius recipe.

Ingredients:
1 lemon
2 pints grape tomatoes
1 head garlic, cloves separated
1 cup pitted kalamata olives, halved
8 sprigs fresh thyme
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 3-pound chicken, cut into 8 pieces
kosher salt and black pepper
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 loaf fresh bread (optional)

Directions:
1. Heat oven to 425° F. Using a vegetable peeler, remove strips of zest from the lemon. (Save the lemon.)

2. In a large roasting pan, toss the tomatoes, garlic, olives, thyme, and lemon zest with 1 tablespoon of the oil.

3. Nestle the chicken, skin-side up, among the vegetables and drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of oil. Season the chicken and vegetables with ¾ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper. Roast until the chicken is cooked through, 35 to 40 minutes.

4. Remove the chicken from the hot roasting pan. Squeeze the juice from the lemon into the roasting pan and add the wine. Gently stir, scraping up any bits stuck to the pan. Serve the chicken and vegetables with the pan juices and bread (optional).

recipe courtesy of Kate Merker via real simple

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Peri-Peri Chicken

by writerredtri

Whether you call it Peri-Peri Chicken or Piri-Piri Chicken (toe-may-toe, toe-mah-toe, anyone?) this dish is undeniably tasty. The secret’s in the sauce, which hails from Portugal. Simply marinate the chicken in lemon juice and that zesty spice mix and you’ll end up with a meal that’s bursting with flavor. Throw in a side salad or rice, and you’ve got a weeknight dinner winner.

Serves 4

Ingredients:

1 packet peri peri spice mix (or make your own using paprika, garlic, onion, oregano, ground cumin, chili powder, thyme, chili flakes)
8 chicken thigh fillets (or mix of thighs and drumsticks, breasts, wings, etc)
4 cloves garlic, chopped
1 inch piece of ginger, chopped
1 lemon, zested
5 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)

Method:

1. Wash and dry the chicken and score each piece several times. In a bowl combine chicken, and spice mix.

2. Add garlic, ginger, lemon zest and salt. Mix.

3. Add olive oil and lemon juice. Mix until chicken is thoroughly coated.

4. Place in fridge for 1-2 hours (or more).

5. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. In a single layer place chicken on a roasting tray and cook for 15 minutes. Flip chicken over and cook for another 15 minutes or until cooked through.

6. Serve with lemon wedges and salad/rice.

Will you try this recipe? Tell us what you think in the Comments below.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Vicky at Avocado Pesto. Vicky believes in healthy eating without the standard diet, low fat, no fat, fake sugar products. Her food blog, Avocado Pesto, is full of recipes from various ethnic cuisines as well as food groups, with newly added nutritional information and many vegan, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly recipes. Follow Vicky as she shares interesting recipes and stories about her traveling adventures.

For more tasty, easy-to-make recipes click here!

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