Baked Salmon Grazing Board


Grazing boards have come a long way and have become popular for both hosting parties, or just to have at home with your family. The versatility of grazing boards allows you to cater to many tastes and you can assemble it with what you have on hand.
For our family, it works great because the kids can pick and choose the veggies they like and plate it up as they like.For meals at home, I try to keep a good lean protein, colorful nutritious vegetables, assorted condiments, and some variety of bread.

I thought I’d share our family favorite salmon recipe along with some sides that help make this a complete meal.

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Orange Chicken


Orange chicken is one of our family favorites when we order from Panda Express. This recipe is a bit different and does not use fresh orange juice as some of the others do. The orange flavor comes straight from the orange zest and takes it to another level!
The frying of the chicken has to be done in batches, and that is probably the only thing that takes time. Other than that, it comes together quickly.
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Baked Chicken With Lemon & Garlic


We all need easy simple dinners, that can be put together quickly. If they can come together in one pan, that’s even better! This recipe for a quick weeknight dinner, can be done with or without marinating the chicken. It is very versatile. You can add any veggies you have on hand, and pop it into the oven.

This chicken is infused with the perfect combination of lemon and garlic. There is a touch of sweetness with honey, and herbs to balance the flavors.

This recipe was inspired by Tin Eats.

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How To Raise A Reader


By far, the most asked question on my blog is ‘how do you get your children to read?’ How do they choose a book? ‘How do you inspire them to pick up a book instead of playing video games?’

Let me start by saying, there is no magic formula or some big trade secret. Countless articles lay the importance of reading to your child when they are a baby. So I will say that, yes, we started very early! In fact reading paves the way to college! Read more about that here. But if you didn’t start reading with your child early on, no worries. Today I will share with you some things I did with my kids and perhaps you will find these helpful with yours as well. 

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Black Forest Cake

A black forest cake is traditionally made a different way. It uses only eggs and no baking powder to make the cake rise. It also is infused with liquor. Here I have made a different version for you all. I’ve taken my favorite moist chocolate cake and layered it with fresh whipped cream and cherries.

 

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Muhammara Dip

Muhammara is a traditional Syrain dip that is made with roasted red pepper and walnuts. Perhaps the best thing about this dip is that it is packed with flavor and super easy to make.

It is a perfect appetizer that can be served alongside hummus, mutabal, and perhaps a side salad. It pairs well with pita chips or a flatbread. Continue reading

Chicken & Broccoli Pasta with a Creamy Mushroom Sauce


Pasta is one of those versatile foods that you can create in many ways! Perhaps add in some marinara or alfredo sauce, veggies, or even cheese and it comes together beautifully for a substantial family meal. Pair it with a garden salad or some crusty garlic bread for that perfect meal. Pasta dishes are also great to take to potlucks and are loved by kids and adults alike!
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Finishing Her Story

Photo Prompt © Jeff Arnold

Anna walked along the marina, admiring the gorgeous weather. It had been months since she had finally stepped out of her home and made her way to the old boat.

The lock down had hit her hard, and she couldn’t wait to get away, on her own for a while.
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