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September Stitch Fix #2

October 2, 2016October 2, 2016 livingswagger

I was lucky enough to get TWO Fixes in September (fitting, because it’s my birthday month!!). For my second Fix, I was sure to ask for all things fall- layers and sweaters and plaid, a jacket, a plaid button-up, a turtle neck and a dressy sweater/sweatshirt in a longer length.

Kristen M., who continues to be my amazing stylist, pulled through with everything I asked for…and more!

Pinot Textured Front Pullover – $54

This sweater was great- a beautiful shade of burgundy, a warm Cotton/Rayon blend, and feminine lace detail in the front. It is machine washable, which is a major plus for a sweater like this one. It felt a little boxy on me, however. Not sure why it felt that way exactly, but I wasn’t completely sold. It is a really pretty sweater though, and I think it would be great in fall and winter with leggings, skinny jeans (like pictured) or even a skirt for work. The price for this one was great too!

Verdict- Returned

Dawnty Pullover Hooded Knit Top – $58

Dawnty Pullover Hooded Knit Top

This sweatshirt had total workout/chill vibe to me. I could totally picture myself lounging around the house with some fun leggings (like shown), or going on a run outside in it. It is cute-a machine washable Polyester blend- but I wasn’t a huge fan of the short sleeves (fall and winter here are COLD!!). I did like the hood, front pocket and small pop of coral though.

Verdict- Returned

Dolan Open Cardigan – $64

I really liked this sweater! It was SUPER warm (100% Acrylic and machine washable), has a fun boho inspired pattern that gave me a throwback vibe, and is an awesome shade of navy blue (one of my favorites!). I honestly was almost sold on this one BUT I have had my eye on a similar sweater that is less expensive online. This decision wasn’t an easy one…

Verdict- Returned

Exner Button Down Tunic- $64

This tunic is great! Honestly, it is exactly what I had in mind when I wrote my fall Fix note for Kristen- exactly! It has great colors- burgundy and navy, is machine washable (100% Rayon), and is in a perfect length! This one would have gone in the “sold” pile immediately…had I not just found a plaid tunic on Amazon for $40 less. LOVE this tunic though!!

Verdict- Sadly, Returned

Antsla Jacket- $88

Antsla Jacket

This jacket is so awesome!! The color is unreal- an awesome shade of mustard, the length is spot on, the details are great, and it felt fantastic. It is dry clean only, which is understandable for outerwear, though still not my favorite, and a Rayon blend. This jacket actually gives me buyers remorse- the opposite way…I really wish I would have kept it, as it’s pretty fabulous!

Verdict- Returned (wish I kept!)

Despite me returning everything (a first I think), this Fix was pretty spot on! I’m excited for Kristen’s fall fix for October!

A note about Stitch Fix:

It’s a super easy to use service…you fill out a style profile, choose the prices you would be willing to pay per each item type, and decide how often you want to get styled. You have the option of setting up your own Stitch Fix Pinterest board that your stylist can look at while styling you. A stylist from Stitch Fix will then be your own personal stylist for however often you choose to receive a box, sending you 5 items based on your style profile, Pinterest board, and personal instructions. If you purchase an item, the $20 service fee goes towards it, if you keep all 5 items, they take 25% off, or you can send all the items back and they only keep the $20.

Check out my “fix” above and (stay tuned for future “fixes”), if you are thinking about trying your own “fix”, use this link https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/6200951 (Note: I will get a credit on a future “fix” if you sign up and will thank you tremendously!!)

Uncategorized, wear

September Stitch Fix #1

September 17, 2016September 16, 2016 livingswagger

Ah- September is here and the end of summer is giving way to my very favorite season- FALL! I will have two September fixes to share with you all this month- one to bring an end to all of the fun summer looks and another to begin the fall fashions of layers and cool weather.

The first September Fix (which was actually a couple of weeks ago- excuse the delay) included a note from Kristen M (my all-star stylist) the read:

“Hi Kristin, it is always such a pleasure to style you and see your comments up on your blog! Thank you for continuing to leave positive feedback, we really appreciate it! I saw a lot of blue denim on your Pinterest board but I wanted to spruce up your closet a little with these olive Pistola skinny pants. The “motto” detail really gives this classic piece a lot of edge and the color is perfect for transitioning into fall. Wear the pants with the Fun2Fun embroidered top for a nice date night. All you need is heels and a small clutch. Or you can wear the pants more casually with the colorful Pixley mixed material top. I also pulled the purple Gilli knit dress for you to wear with ankle boots and a denim jacket for an easy go-to fall ensemble. As always, have fun! xo, Kristen M.”

Gilli Kamile Knit Dress – $54

This dress, while very cute, unfortunately reminded me of the styles that were big in High School- the ruched bust and high waist, and even the (very pretty) bright color. It brought back one too many memories of dances and Catholic-school rules (haha). The 95% Viscose/5% Spandex is hand washable material was a plus but not a redemption.

Verdict- Returned

Pixley Hawn Mixed Material Top- $54 & Pistola Audrey Moto Detail Skinny Pant – $88

These motto pants are a fabulous color and the detail on the knee gave just the right amount of spunk to an otherwise regular-old pant. I appreciate that Kristen noticed the amount of plain jean I’ve been pinning and wanted to expand my horizons. The cut of these, as cute as they were on, just didn’t feel right – the waist a bit too high and the the length just a tad too short. I will say that the material (a cotton blend) is crazy soft for a pant, which I really liked.

The top is awesome- full of vibrant color in the 100% Polyester front and grey jersey in the Polyester blend back. The small peep hole is also a fun detail. I must say I was tempted to keep this top, which is hand washable, but my inner budget-conscious fashionista already owns one super similar (and less expensive) from Target.

Verdict- Returned (Both)

Pixley Alicia Printed Pencil Skirt – $48

This skirt is an all around winner! One- I’m still on the mission to wear more skirts and dresses. Two- It is black and white which means I have a whole closet full of goodies that will look good with it. Three- It has a pattern and length that a perfect for all seasons. Four- The XXXXX fabric is stretchy and fits perfect in all the right places.

Verdict- Kept (Easy one!)

Fun2Fun Hollyanne Embroidered Top- $54

This top is adorable- for sure. The detail is a really pretty shade of burgundy, which really pops from the off-white of the Rayon (hand washable) material of the shirt. The boho style is definitely in, and the length is perfect- but for some reason I wasn’t totally sold.

Verdict- Returned

September Fix- Fall Edition will be coming your way next week. Stay tuned!!

A note about Stitch Fix:

Uncategorized, wear

August Stitch Fix Review

August 7, 2016August 7, 2016 livingswagger

Alright all- before I get into this review I have to apologize for being so absent for so long. We have had way too much going on at our house, and time is speeding by like you wouldn’t believe! I am really going to push for a more regular posting schedule (at least once per week)! Please, hold me accountable!!

As for the August Fix- I didn’t give Kristen (my amazing stylist) any direction for wants and needs this month, and instead let her use her imagination and go wild! Her note read:

“Hi Kristin, I had so much fun styling this colorful Fix for you! I’m so glad you loved the jeans, I think almost all Stitch Fix employees own them because they are such a great fit! I pulled two new tops for you to wear with your jeans. The pink Collective Concepts cold shoulder top is very boho inspired and a great staple for summer. I also thought you would love the Skies are Blue crochet back top. Back details are a big trend right now and I didn’t want you to miss out! Add a splash of color to your look with the green Miz Mooz slip-on sneakers. For a nice date night, pair the Papermoon maxi dress with scrappy wedges and your chunky Bay to Baubles necklace from your May Fix. Have fun! I can’t wait to read your next blog post! xo, Kristin M”

A few things about her note:

This is the Bay to Baubles necklace (see my June Stitch Fix review) she talks about in her note. I have gotten a lot of wear out of it- both dressing up and down.
She also mentions the Kut from Kloth Kate Distressed Boyfriend Jean. Those jeans (which I absolutely love) are featured below, as well as in my July Stitch Fix Review.
She must have been reading my mind on the Papermoon dress because hubby and I are so in need of a date night 😉

As for the actual review…

Skies are Blue Visperas Crochet Back Top – $48

Visperas Crochet Back Top

This top is adorable (shown above with the Kate distressed jean Kristen mentioned from my July Fix)! The 100% Polyester material, which can be hand washed, actually feels more like silk and, though it looks black from afar, the pattern is a super delicate black and cream polka dot. The cream crochet back detail is gorgeous as well. This top is totally something I can see myself in but there are already leave falling in my yard (yikes!!), which means fall is coming. I would hate to cover the back detail with a jacket or sweater, and had to turn this cutie down.

Verdict- Returned

Collective Concepts Atalya Cold Shoulder Top – $48

Unfortunately, nothing about this shirt tickled my fancy. While I do like the color pink, it is never a color I buy or am drawn to for clothing, and the orange accents made it even less appealing to me. It is definitely boho, just not my style boho. It is 100% Polyester and Dry Clean only (that would make it a no by itself!). Again, the Kate distressed jeans from July’s Fix are also shown above with this top (I told you I loved them!!).

Verdict- Returned

Pixley Royce Hi-Lo Dress – $78

Royce Hi-Lo Dress

This dress is great! The pattern is flattering, as is the cut, and I love that the back is longer than the front. I think this dress could is perfect alone, but is also awesome paired with a blazer (like shown above). It is 100% Polyester (whoa- lots of Polyester this month!) and hand washable. My son loved this dress, and was heart broken that I put it in the return pile. Why, you ask? Well- I could really only take one dress this month and, well- you’ll see…

Verdict- Returned

Papermoon Jayne Knit Maxi Dress – $68

I have been on the hunt for a great maxi dress for some time, but have constantly found something I don’t like about whichever one I try on. That was totally not the case with this one! The colors and pattern were already a win, as was the 100% Rayon being hand washable. The high neck and high waist are super flattering, and I loved the shape of the dress once I tried it on. This dress is a total winner, beating out the Hi-Lo dress AND earning a permanent spot in my closet. This dress will translate really well into fall with a simple jean jacket and will be perfect for that well-deserved hubby date night (you were right Kristen!!)

Verdict- Kept

Mix Mooz Serafina Slip-On Sneakers – $59

Miz Mooz Slip-On Sneakers

I tried these memory foam soled sneakers on with my Jayne Knit Maxi Dress just for “kicks” and loved the pop of comfort and color. I know these sneakers would also go well with shorts, jeans, whatever…, and they are crazy comfortable. My problem with sneakers (I hate to say this) is that I am pretty crazy loyal to either A) my chucks or B) my workout shoes. Maybe one day I will step outside my box and into something super cute, like these, but today is just not the day.

Verdict- Returned

Kristen pulled together another great Fix for August! I cannot wait to see what September brings (just in time for my birthday)!!

A note about Stitch Fix:

cook, Uncategorized

Blue Apron

July 11, 2016September 12, 2016 livingswagger

My husband and I have been toying with the idea of trying Blue Apron for some time now. The thought of trying out new menu options that A) can help us get the kids interested in cooking with us and B) are delivered straight to our front porch sounded amazing. We received a promo code that gave us $30 off and decided to finally give it a try. We opted for the twice weekly meal for four, which costs $69.92 per week ($8.74 per serving).

One thing I really liked when I first signed up was that I was able to choose certain options we did not want sent (lamb, shellfish, meat, etc). Even better is that once I signed up I could choose between their weekly menu options (at least this is the case with the twice weekly plan), meaning that each week I can go in and choose two out of the four menu options they offer. Another plus is that if we ever choose to not have Blue Apron deliver (if we are out of town, have guests, etc) we can simply skip the week and are not charged nothing at all.

For us, the cost was easy to digest- heck, it’s usually $40 for us to order pizza anymore!- at about $35 per meal for four. What we were anxious about is whether the food would be as easy to digest as the price tag.

I was super excited to open our first box from Blue Apron when it arrived, and it did not disappoint! Everything was packed super nice and orderly, with big enough icepacks to keep everything (meat included) cold. There were printed recipes and instructions for the two meals of the week, as well as a informational brochure on avocado (an absolute favorite at our house!) and a cooking lesson for kids (limited time only on the kids lesson- but perfect timing since part of us signing up was to involve the kids). Everything looked fresh and I liked that literally everything (besides salt, pepper and EVOO) was included. No trips to the store necessary!

Our first week included Spiced Steaks & Tomato-Avocado Salad and Zucchini & Mozzarella Pizza Paninis.

As hoped, the kiddos both chipped in and helped cook our first Blue Apron meals. I found that the recipe was super easy to follow (even for the kids), and both prep and cook time were pretty quick. (I would say that I average about 1 hour in the kitchen, between prep and cook times for most Blue Apron recipes)

The end result?? Both adults and kids LOVED both of the first week’s recipes! Hurray!!

We have continued with Blue Apron since we first tried it and, I can honestly say, most of the recipes are awesome (and they are usually between 600-800 calories per serving). There have really only been two or three that we would’t make again. What has been really great is that Blue Apron offers ingredients that I wouldn’t normally cook with. We always make the kids try everything, so it has been really neat to see them expanding their experiences with food.

Do they always help cook the meals? No, not really. But I do have them sit with me and help choose which meals they think sound the most interesting. This still ensures that they stay involved, and helps in the case their is something they end up not liking so much.

Blue Apron is a definite win in our house!

cook, Uncategorized

Football Birthday Cake

June 17, 2016June 23, 2016 livingswagger

I am the first to admit that I am not the baker, or cake decorator, of the family. My husband is not only an artist, but he loves to bake and spent a good chunk of his high school years working at Baskin Robbins, as their cake decoration specialist. Those things combined generally equal really cool desserts and cakes. How can I possibly compete with our things like our sons 2nd birthday cakes (below)???

birthday — My husband- the master cake maker…

That being said, when it comes down to preparing ourselves for a houseful of rowdy boys he usually takes the stuff like preparing the yard and pool, refereeing the sports, and after party clean up, while I take the decorations, menu planning and the cooking (which usually means the birthday cake baking too). This year my son really wanted a football party and, while my Pinterest wall speaks wonders of the ways to decorate football themed cakes, I wasn’t ready to botch an outlandish dessert with something you’d find on “Nailed It”. Instead I tried something simple, and cute…a football shaped cake.

Note: If you are an advanced baker, or can do wonders with fondant and frosting, this post is NOT for you. This tutorial is the simplest football cake you can make- and one that pretty much no one can mess up 🙂 It may not be the most beautiful of all sports cakes, but the boys loved it and I was awed by how truly easy it was.

I started by baking two 9″ round yellow cakes (made with one box of yellow cake mix) per the instructions and allowed them to completely cool.

Once cooled, I stacked the cakes on top of one another, using a thin layer of frosting to adhere. Once stacked, I measured and cut/removed 2″ stripe from the very center of the cake and then placed the two pieces together into prolate spheroid (or football shape). Mine was still a bit “fat” and if I were to make this cake again, I would add another 1/2″ or so to the center being removed.

I then frosted the two cakes together with chocolate frosting, ensuring that they were frosted together in one piece. I read a few great blogs and how-to’s that suggested using paper towels to press into the frosting once dry for the football texture. I would have done this, had I not waited till the day of to make the cake…next time!

Last, I used a premed tube of Wilton white decorating icing to make laces and seams. And presto- the simplest football cake you can make! Cute for the kids, yet easy for the (non-baking) parents!! Enjoy!

Uncategorized, wear

June Stitch Fix

June 16, 2016June 16, 2016 livingswagger

With June here and summer weather underway, I left my requests for my latest Fix wide open, telling my stylist to throw whatever she wanted to my way. I don’t usually do this but I really wasn’t feeling anything super specific, and figured a warm weather fashion boost was just what I needed.

Kristen M was still my stylist (absolutely love that they have kept her in place with my Fixes!!), and her note stated pretty simply that she gave me a variety of things that could be mixed and matched for the summer months. Upon opening my box, I have to say I was super excited just to see the colors (so me!!) and the mix match collection (mixing and matching makes your closet go so much farther, without the extra expense!!).

Bradfield Shoulder Pleat Top – $44

This top is beyond cute! I adore the shoulder detail and, despite it being sleeveless, can totally rock this to work without feeling uncomfortable. Though it looks like it is simply a pale gray or blue, it is actually slim navy seersucker, giving it a true summery vibe. This is one of those tops that would look cute with SO much- from skirts to jeans to shorts, and I can see it becoming a summer staple. Above I paired it with a white tank (there are small slits on the side that go just above my jean line, making the tank necessary for work), jeans, and a chunky Stella & Dot statement necklace. It is a Cotton/Nylon blend that can be hand washed.

Verdict- KEPT!

Fitzgerald Crochet Detail Top – $54

Fitzgerald Crochet Detail Top

The color and details of this top are spot on. Definitely not your everyday tank top, and just as easy to dress up as it is to dress down. I can totally see myself throwing this on for a day at the park (like shown above), or for a date night. The crochet back gives this cutie a touch of girly-girl, which I adore, and the fit is perfect. It is 100% Rayon and hand washable. So far, Kristen is on a roll!

Verdict- KEEPER!!

Nichola Printed Pencil Skirt – $58

Nichola Printed Pencil Skirt (shown with Bradfield Shoulder Pleat Top & Cloey Crystal Gem Necklace)

I am really trying to wear more skirts and dresses, especially to work- it has become a personal goal of mine. Jeans are just so comfy and easy though, so I always find myself coming back. Because of this draw toward comfort and ease, this skirt is a perfect one for me- spandex stretchy pull on with no buttons or zippers, great color, perfect length, can go with a lot of the colors in my closet, can be worn with flip-flops or heels, etc. The pattern is cute too, giving just the right amount of detail! It is a Polyester blend that can be hand washed.

Verdict- Kept!

Andris Slit Shoulder Knit Top – $48

Andris Shoulder Slit Knit Top

There is nothing I don’t like about this top. Not one thing! The Rayon/Spandex blend is super soft, it is machine washable (yes!!), the shoulder slit is a perfect accent to a normal tank top, the color is the most brilliant blue, and the list goes on…This is yet another item that can totally be dressed up (seen above with the Walt Skirt and heels) or dressed down (also seen above with Old Navy jean shorts and flip-flops). Probably my most favorite piece from this Fix, I cannot wait to sport it this summer!

Verdict- Kept!! (Four out of four?!?!?!)

Cloey Crystal Gem Necklace – $38

Cloey Crystal Gem Necklace (shown with Bradfield Shoulder Pleat Top)

While I do think this necklace is super cute, I am pretty attached/loyal to Stella & Dot (and my girlfriends who sell it!). I feel like this piece actually resembles several of their collection. There are some major upsides to this necklace though. One- it is $38!?! A steal for such a cute piece! Two- with all four other pieces scoring as keepers, to not keep this necklace would actually cost me more than to keep it! (Remember that Stitch Fix gives you 25% your total if you keep all five pieces, saving me a total of $60.50 this go around) Besides, I will definitely wear it with some of the pieces included in this Fix, and think it will be fabulous with the little black dress I scored last Fix (Bonita Crochet Dress shown below)!!

FullSizeRender[3] — Bonita Crochet Dress- (See my May Fix)

Verdict- Kept

So, Kristen and I hit the jackpot this go around! Not only did I love this Fix, but paying a grand total of $161.50 for all five pieces (after my Fix credit and 25% off) is amazing! I cannot wait to see what Kristen has in store for my next fix!!

Stay tuned for July’s Fix! If you have any suggestions, I am always ready to try new styles!!

A note about Stitch Fix:

Uncategorized, wear

May Stitch Fix

May 7, 2016May 7, 2016 livingswagger

For my May Fix I requested pops of color, a spring blazer/cardigan, another try at a dress, and polka dots. I made sure to Pin lots of goodies as well, so that Kristen could get an idea of the styles I was shooting for. I was ready for some spring/summer goodies and a change up from my winter wardrobe routine. I got to keep Kristen as my stylist (love that!). My note from Kristen read:

“Hi Kristin, it’s great to see you back again! I’m happy you liked the joggers, I searched so hard for those and was really glad they worked out! Since the dresses didn’t work out I am sending two new ones for you to try. The coral Brixon Ivy faux wrap dress is perfect for spring and summer and will really compliment your blond hair. I also pulled this black crochet dress is also by Brixon Ivy. Classic but with a feminine twist. I know you are loving polka dots right now so I grabbed the Market & Spruce top for you to wear with jeans or capris this spring. Add a pop of color to your Walt skirt with the green Skies are Blue lace detail blouse and the floral print Pixley blazer. Both great staples for this time of year! Enjoy! Xo, Kristen M.”

Siene Blazer – $78

This jacket was super cute in theory – not if you asked my husband…he hated it. Unfortunately, it was too big for me and was missing a button when it arrived. I also felt the thin 100% Polyester felt almost too flimsy. It is machine washable, which is a major plus, but the way it was made wouldn’t have made it a ‘yes’ for me, even if it was my size and had the button.

Verdict- Returned

Niels Lace Yoke Blouse – $48

FullSizeRender[1] — Niels Lace Yoke Blouse

FullSizeRender[2] — Niels Lace Yoke Blouse

This top was a total winner!! The lace detail on the top is amazing, and the color is great! I’m a total sucker for green and agree with Kristen, that it would be awesome with my February fix Walt skirt! It is 100% Rayon and hand washable. I am pumped to wear this one for work and for play.

Verdict- Definite Keeper!

Colibri Polka Dot Print Top – $48

FullSizeRender — Colibri Polka Dot Print Top

I will give Kristen a definite ‘A’ for effort on this one. It’s funny how spot on she gets my style sometimes…this is the third Fix that has included something super close to something I already own!! While not exact, I do already have a polka dot tab sleeve blouse (mine is from Maurice’s and comes with an awesome pop of pink!), and so no matter how much I liked this shirt there was no way I could justify keeping it. The sleeves are awesome on it though- the picture above shows one sleeve down and the other tabbed. It is 100% Rayon and hand washable.

Verdict: Returned

Kessie Knit Faux Wrap Dress – $64

FullSizeRender[4] — Kessie Knit Faux Wrap Dress

When I first pulled this dress out I was excited! Love the colors and the summer feel. The Rayon/Spandex machine washable mix feels super breathable and lightweight for warmer days. I feel like when I tried the dress on though, it sealed the deal for me in an opposite direction- I am not a wrap dress gal! It’s definitely not that the dress isn’t cute- because it is – it is just not me. The top portion felt a little frumpy and loose (it was slightly too big as well) and the waist didn’t feel flattering. Poor Kristen- she is trying so hard to get me that dress and keeps striking out.

Verdict- Returned

Bonita Crochet Dress – $88

And then, she absolutely hits it out of the park with this LBD (I told her a few months back that I was missing a little black dress in my closet – now I will miss it no more!!)! There is nothing I do not love about this dress- and I mean nothing! The high waist is incredibly flattering, the crochet details are super feminine, the length is short enough to accomplish a flirt factor without being too much, and the list goes on! I will say that the dress has a snag in the back- nothing crazy, but it’s a snag. I contacted Stitch Fix and they gave me the choice between 15% off the dress or returning for a new one. I opted for the discount, which made the dress an even better find! I honestly cannot wait to wear this dress year round! It is 100% Polyester and hand washable.

Verdict- KEPT!!! (Possible one of my fave Fix finds thus far!)

Stay tuned for June’s Fix- likely with some summery goods! If you have any suggestions, I am always ready to try new styles!!

A note about Stitch Fix:

cook, Uncategorized

Mediterranean Turkey Burgers

May 4, 2016May 3, 2016 livingswagger

I did a recipe exchange with some girlfriends about 8 years ago and ended up with this gem that adds flare to any average burger night. It is simple enough to make in bulk, so we use this one a lot when having friends or family over for dinner or a bbq. Because of that, it is by far my most requested recipe. The best part about these burgers is that they are different, yet the ingredients are are palatable to almost everyone (sorry to those of you who don’t like spinach and/or feta).

1 lb ground turkey
1 large egg
1 slice of whole wheat bread- cubed
2 cup spinach- chopped
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 Tbsp minced onion
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt

Preheat oven to 350˚

Combine mixture in large bowl, ensuring feta is crumbled into smaller pieces and ingredients are distributed evenly throughout meat. Form into patties, or a loaf (which we do often). Place on broil pan (for patties) or flat baking sheet (for loaf). Cook for 30-35 minutes, or until internal temperature is 165˚

Note: You can bbq the burger patties as well, just ensure that the internal temperature is 165˚ before serving.

We serve these burgers (with or without buns!) with just about anything- a nice salad, rice, mashed potatoes, corn on the cob (for bbq), etc. It is as versatile as it is delicious! Enjoy!!

Mediterranean Turkey Burgers (no buns): Serves 4- 290 calories, 15.7g fat, 3.9g carbs, 28.9g protein

cook, Uncategorized

Tuna Salad Done Healthy

May 3, 2016May 3, 2016 livingswagger

Tuna salad sandwiches are a favorite at our house- kids love it, it is a great source of protein, delicious, and easy to prepare! I have found though, that not all tuna salad is made equal (have you ever looked at the mayo you might be using?). Have you ever thought of subbing the mayo out??

Check out the comparison of the cottage cheese (1/2 cup = 90 calories, 2.5g fat, 13g protein) I use to make my tuna salad vs Olive Oil Mayo (1 Tbsp = 60 calories, 6g fat, 0g protein).

Cottage Cheese

Mayo made with Olive Oil

This is where my healthier, lighter, more protein (without the extra fat) and vegetable packed version comes in- and no, the kids can’t tell the difference or seem to mind that I’m sneaking veggies in (major win!).

Recipe:

1 can solid white albacore in water
1/2 cup low fat (2% milk fat) cottage cheese
3-4 mini carrots (shredded- I use a mini grater)
1-2 mini kosher dill pickles (shredded- again, the mini grater)
4 white corn tortillas
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
Salt & Pepper to taste

This particular recipe is with corn tortillas, rather than bread. I brown the tortillas on the stovetop, add tuna mixture and 1/8 cup mozzarella, and fold like a quesadilla. Easy to eat- and delish!!

Tuna Salad Done Healthy: Serves 2- 254 calories, 8.6g fat, 14.7g carbs, 30.1g protein

Compared to Old Fashioned Tuna Salad (with whole wheat bread, swiss cheese, and mayo): Serves 2- 389 calories, 16.9g fat, 27.4g carbs, 35.5g protein

Winner: Tuna Salad Done Healthy!!

cook, Uncategorized

Saturday Dinner…with Swagger

April 17, 2016April 17, 2016 livingswagger

It is a little known secret that when my husband and I met I couldn’t cook to save my life- I literally ruined french toast on one of our breakfast dates. Lucky for him…and our children, and all future dinner parties…I was eager to learn and spent lots of time reading cookbooks, experimenting in the kitchen, and nabbing every hint and recipe I could from my mom, step-mom and mother-in-law.

My mother-in-law, in particular, is a pro at home cooking, and her amazing, yet usually not super healthy, recipes are my husband’s absolute faves! Over time, I’ve taken to tweaking some of her famous recipes into more healthy versions. Such is the case with Hamburger Pie, which is a staple in our home (in the healthier version at least).

A quick note: The version of Hamburger Pie I’m sharing tonight is the “quick” version (we decided, uncharacteristically, to throw something together tonight), and contains some canned veggies. More often than not, I do fresh green beans and frozen white corn form Costco.

1.5 lbs ground turkey
2 green peppers, chopped
1/2 can tomato paste
1 can diced tomatoes
2 cans french green beans (or sub 2 cups fresh green beans)
1 can corn (or sub 1 cup frozen white corn)
3-4 red potatoes (depending on size), chopped and then mashed
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 Tbsp shredded parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 350˚. Brown ground turkey, adding chopped green pepper after almost fully cooked through. Allow pepper to soften. Add 1/2 can tomato paste and 1 can diced tomatoes. Stir until turkey/pepper mix is fully coated in tomatoes and paste.

While turkey is browning, chop red potatoes and bring to a boil. Once soft, drain and mash (I usually add a small amount of fat-free milk (maybe 1/4 cup), a Tbsp butter, and some fresh garlic) into a soft mashed puree.

In a glass 13×9″ baking dish, layer ingredients: turkey/pepper/tomato mixture, followed by green beans and corn, followed by mashed potato mix, and finally cheeses.

Bake for 35-40 minutes or until bubbly and slightly browned.

Enjoy!

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