The Defined Dish

Whole30 Meal Plan {1.27.21}

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 21:07:54 GMT

Here’s another 5-day Whole30 Meal Plan to make your weeknight dinners easier! Complete with a grocery list!

To download the full document, click here –> Whole30 Meal Plan {1.27.21}

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Spicy Celery Stir Fry

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 19:29:57 GMT

If you are a celery lover, I am sure that this Spicy Celery Stir Fry has you giddy inside. However, I am aware that a lot of you find the taste of celery to be a little….errr, unpleasant. In fact, I’ve even seen some of you call celery “the devil” in my DM’s before. haha

I grew up with a celery loving Mom that cooked with it in all sorts of ways and packed celery sticks for snacking in my lunchbox daily. In fact, one of my families most beloved recipes that has been passed down for generations can be found in my cookbook titled “Mimi’s Minestra del Sedano”, or Mimi’s Italian Celery Soup, where celery is the star ingredient! It’s at the top of list for my favorite nostalgic things to eat.

Celery is a surprisingly valuable player in your everyday kitchen stockpile. While it might not often play a starring role in a dish like it is here, it’s such a fundamental part of many dishes! For example, a Mirepoix, (a mix of carrots, onions, and celery, usually finely diced, and used as the seasoning base) is one of the foundations of the classical Western kitchen, and we rely on it heavily in our soups and stews. It’s practically always in our refrigerators ready to be used in a mirepoix or cut into sticks to serve with hot wings or in a crudite; however, we rarely let it be the star of the show.

This spicy celery stir fry is a great go-to when you have nothing but celery in your fridge… which happens to me too often! Serve it with rice to make a complete meal or this stir fry is a great side dish! This is definitely for the celery lovers of the world. And if you hate celery, look away and don’t say anything rude and ruin our fun

Spicy Celery Stir Fry

Servings people

Ingredients

2 tablespoons avocado oil
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
6 cups Julienned celery (about 1 head of celery) *see note
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste) 1 tsp is hot, 1/2 tsp medium, 1/4 tsp is mild
1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
3 tablespoon coconut aminos
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoons arrowroot flour

Instructions

Heat the avocado and sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. When hot, add the celery, salt, pepper and chile flakes and cook, stirring, until the celery is slightly tender and browned, about 4 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the broth, coconut aminos, rice vinegar and arrowroot and stir until well combined and the arrowroot has dissolved.
Pour the sauce into the skillet and continue to cook, tossing occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the celery is well coated in the sauce, 3 to 4 more minutes.

Notes

The best way to julienne the celery is to slice off the root end of the stalk. Cut the stalks in thirds, and then cut each of those pieces in half lengthwise. From there, cut into smaller matchsticks depending on the size of the stalk.

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January Whole30 {Cookbook} Meal Plan Week 4

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 00:38:25 GMT

For this week’s January Whole30 meal plan, enjoy a week of healthy + wholesome cookbook recipes for dinner! If you do not already have my book, shop now and cook along with this week’s meal plan!

To download the full document, click here –> January Whole30 {Cookbook} Meal Plan Week 4

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Defined Home: Family Room Reveal

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 16:35:08 GMT

Please note that I only work with companies and products that I feel passionately about and that align with The Defined Dish’s views and that this post contains sponsored content for Room & Board. While I am compensated for the work I do, my opinions are always 100% my own.

I am excited to share one of our most-used spaces in our home: our family room! This is the spot in our home that serves both as the kid’s playroom as well as our casual living space. It’s where we watch TV or movies at the end of the day to unwind and take a load off.

All that to say, there were many different factors to consider when designing the room but overall we wanted a durable, welcoming and cozy space that both the girls as well as Clayton and I could enjoy.

Just so you can get a quick glimpse of the BEFORE of the room, the space was already great, but we had to fix a few things:

Above this room was an upstairs add-on area that was not built properly and the ceiling was sagging due to structural issues. We had to add the beams to fix that and they ended up becoming a design detail that I love in this room.
The old stairwell was not up to code because it was too narrow, so we fixed up the stairwell, which further helped to clean up the design in the room.

Other than those updates, the rest was really just cosmetic changes. We removed some of the wall detailing, including the arch design which we actually hoped to keep but needed to change our plan once the structural problems caused damage to those. We also had a fantastic carpenter build walnut cabinetry around our entertainment unit, which ties in perfectly with the walnut shelves we have across the room on another wall.

Speaking of furniture in the room, after a few structural and cosmetic changes, our design came to life once we furnished the room with pieces from Room & Board to complete the room with all of our needs in mind while also choosing pieces that were cohesive with the rest of the design in our home.

Seating

Since this room serves as our TV room for family movie nights, Netflix binges and football watching, seating was very important to us.

5-Piece Linger Modular Sofa with Ottoman (158″ x 86″) in Hines Spruce: First and foremost, we knew we wanted a sectional! This design not only offers a comfortable option but the Hines Spruce fabric is a beautiful focal point — I just love the color!
Ford Swivel Chairs in Orla Ivory: Another seating option for when we have guests over. I love the swivel feature to easily be involved with anything going on in the room.
Aero Ottoman in Cowhide Buff: These ottomans are sturdy enough to be used as a table if needed, but they can also be used for extra seating; the versatility was a huge plus to us as well as the cowhide fabric — I loved the texture it added to the space!

Storage

Because the space also serves as a playroom for the girls, storage was another high-priority to ensure we could have *most* of their toys put away if we were having guests over.

Rollins Stacking Bookcase Cubes in Walnut (88″ x 13″ x 24″): These are the bookcases that tie in with the custom cabinetry we added. They are perfect for baskets filled with the girls’ toys, but because the shelves are so spacious, we were also able to use these to display books and other accessories so the room is not just accessorized with toys!
Foshay Console Bookcases In Natural Steel (72” x 15” x 29”): Placed along the back of our sofa, this console table is perfect for overflow toy storage as well as a spot to place drinks and snacks if the ottomans are in use.

Besides the furniture, we finished the room with a Custom Sized Hastings Rug in Stone (192” x 114”) which helped tie in the various colors in the room and is also incredibly plush which is perfect for the cozy room we wanted to create.

Other Details in the Room: If I missed anything, please feel free to ask me in a comment below!

The art above the walnut bookcase cubes is by our talented friend and artist, Matthew Brinston.
The kid’s table is also from Room and Board and we’ve had it for YEARS and still love the look: Perch Play Table + Perch Chairs
The large chalkboard was custom built by a local woodworker.
The Tree Bookshelf was something we’ve had for a while from Etsy. While it’s beautiful on the wall– it was *very difficult* to install and was a headache for sure. Haha. I’ve looked everywhere on Etsy for the exact one and can’t find it anywhere!

Overall, we are thrilled with how all of our Room & Board pieces helped us complete our room! Like all of their designs, they are trend-proof so can easily be mixed and matched with other pieces for years to come, easily moved in other spaces in our home, and they are all sustainably created through quality construction and ethically sourced materials. 90% of Room & Board’s products are also manufactured through family-owned business partners all based in the US — I love this focus on craftspeople since it is not common with other retailers.

I can’t want to continue to make memories in this family room and continue to share how we utilize the space!

To learn more about Room & Board and their official product offerings, visit roomandboard.com.

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Whole30 Breakfast Ideas

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 14:33:34 GMT

Breakfast always sets the tone for each day, but especially during Whole30! Starting your day with a nourishing Whole30 Breakfast allows you to make smarter choices throughout the day because you are not just grabbing any food in sight.

Most of these recipes are great prepped ahead of time, but there are also some Whole30 Breakfast Recipes for the weekends or to make your weekday breakfast even more exciting if you have the time.

bowl of doom (sweet potato and bison breakfast hash)

While perfect for breakfast, I also love how this dish can literally be served at any time of day: breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s filling and comforting, yet lean and mean!

Get the recipe: Bowl of Doom (Sweet Potato and Bison Breakfast Hash)

chicken-ranch breakfast hash

To make mornings easier, I like to prep a wholesome breakfast on Sunday and this recipe is great for that.

Get the recipe: Chicken-Ranch Breakfast Hash

whole30 chilaquiles verdes

This Whole30 take on chilaquiles is definitely one of my favorite brunch dishes for the weekend or just for a more exciting weekday breakfast!

Get the recipe: Whole30 Chilaquiles Verdes

meal prep breakfast taco bowls

All you’ll have to do is make your cup of coffee, pop this into the microwave, and heat it up for a minute, and breakfast is ready to go!

Get the recipe: Meal Prep Breakfast Taco Bowls

individual breakfast casseroles

This is another great meal prep recipe that you can make in portioned ramekins or one big casserole dish!

Get the recipe: Individual Breakfast Casseroles

green chile beef egg cups

Not only are these full of flavor, but they can also be prepped ahead of time and reheated throughout the week in the microwave in just 45 seconds – 1 minute.

Get the recipe: Green Chile Beef Egg Cups

whole30 migas scramble

While you’ll have to forgo the tortilla strips and cheese usually found in traditional Migas, this Whole30 rendition will still bring all kinds of great flavor to your breakfast.

Get the recipe: Whole30 Migas Scramble

chorizo and spiralized sweet potato breakfast casserole

There is nothing more peaceful to me than sipping coffee on a Sunday morning and making a big breakfast casserole! Perfect to eat that morning and save leftovers for breakfast throughout the week.

Get the recipe: Chorizo and Spiralized Sweet Potato Breakfast Casserole

pork and sage breakfast meatballs

Perfect for breakfast as well as to have on-hand for a quick snack when hunger strikes.

Get the recipe: Pork and Sage Breakfast Meatballs

oven roasted breakfast potatoes

Another great dish to make ahead for the week! Serve on the side with any of these breakfast ideas or have on hand to easily pair with a quick egg.

Get the recipe: Oven Roasted Breakfast Potatoes

why you should eat salad for breakfast.

Really, what is the big deal? You already love eating bacon and eggs for breakfast, why not put it over some salad greens? Check these beautiful salad creations I’ve whipped up.

Get the recipe: Why you should Eat Salad for Breakfast.

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January Whole30 Meal Plan Week 3

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 23:24:32 GMT

This January Whole30 Meal Plan Week 3 includes The Best Whole30 Pot Roast, this Sichuan Beef Stir Fry and three other recipes that will keep your Whole30 dinners far from boring this week! Two of the recipes also have larger serving sizes than usual so you’ll have great leftovers to serve for lunch or another night for dinner.

The meal plan also includes my Whole30 Caesar Salad Dressing which would be great to use for my Caesar Chicken Collard Wraps as another lunch idea. Enjoy!

To download the full document, click here –> January Whole30 Meal Plan 3

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Whole30 Lunch Ideas

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 22:20:01 GMT

During your Whole30, it is important to never let yourself get too hungry, that’s when you will find yourself grabbing anything in sight — compliant or not. With these lunch recipes, you’ll be able to prep all {or at least some} of the recipe to quickly prepare your lunch during the week.

And if you have not already, do yourself a huge favor and make some Whole30 approved homemade mayo at the beginning of the week and with that mayo, you can make a variety of the recipes below to have your Whole30 lunches ready to go before your hunger sets in.

tarragon chicken salad

This Tarragon Chicken Salad is simple, flavorful, and just might be my favorite chicken salad ever! But, I do have other delicious options featured here as well.

Get the recipe: Tarragon Chicken Salad

dairy-free pimento chicken salad

This a fun way to take some of the flavors from the beloved southern favorite — pimento cheese dip — and make a delicious chicken salad out of it.

Get the recipe: Dairy-Free Pimento Chicken Salad

curried tuna salad

This recipe is absolutely delicious, great for a grab and go lunch, and also a great snack (just have 1/2 cup) if you are about to eat your fist midday.

Get the recipe: Curried Tuna Salad

classic tuna salad

This is a *really good,* paleo, classic tuna salad recipe that never fails me. It’s dilly, zesty, bright, and delicious!!

Get the recipe: Classic Tuna Salad

sheet pan salmon nicoise salad

This Sheet Pan Salmon Nicoise Salad is perfect for meal prep and eating throughout the week for a satisfying, wholesome lunch!

Get the recipe: Sheet Pan Salmon Nicoise Salad

buffalo chopped chicken salad

Prep your chicken at the beginning of the week then easily throw your salad together each day for a flavorful lunch.

Get the recipe: Buffalo Chopped Chicken Salad

chicken enchilada soup

This soup not only tastes like heaven, but it comes together quickly and with very few steps!

Get the recipe: Chicken Enchilada Soup

whole30 italian wedding soup

Prepare this soup at the beginning of the week and your future self will thank you.

Get the recipe: Whole30 Italian Wedding Soup

whole30 + paleo approved chili

Oh, how I love a good bowl of chili…rain or shine!

Get the recipe: Whole30 + Paleo Approved Chili

curried chili

This Curried Chili is a fusion recipe that combines classic Texas Chili with the flavors of an Indian Curry. It’s got the perfect amount of spice, is bustling with flavor, and I really think you’ll just love it! Not to mention, SO EASY.

Get the recipe: Curried Chili

caesar chicken collard wraps

I love that you can prepare these ahead of time and the collards are sturdy enough to hold for a few days for grab-and-go lunches. If you haven’t tried a collard wrap, I encourage you to do so ASAP!

Get the recipe: Caesar Chicken Collard Wraps

5-ingredient chipotle-lime shrimp lettuce cups

Shrimp, lime, hot sauce, lettuce, and garlic come together to make a delightful light and healthy meal that is full of flavor!

Get the recipe: 5-Ingredient Chipotle-Lime Shrimp Lettuce Cups

korean-inspired ground beef and kimchi bowls

With your beef prepped ahead of time, your lunch will come together in no time!

Get the recipe: Korean-inspired Ground Beef and Kimchi Bowls

whole30 tuna cakes with smoked paprika aioli

All the same flavors of a tuna salad in a warm cake!

Get the recipe: Whole30 Tuna Cakes with Smoked Paprika Aioli

baked mongolian beef meatballs

I love prepping meatballs ahead of time to have on hand for lunches or dinner throughout the week.

Get the recipe: Baked Mongolian Beef Meatballs

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January Whole30 Meal Plan Week 2

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 02:10:33 GMT

Another 5-day meal plan to help with your January Whole30!

Continue to look for new meal plans each week to help you throughout your January Whole30!

To download the full document, click here –> January Whole30 Meal Plan 2

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Tarragon Chicken Salad

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 14:39:26 GMT

This Tarragon Chicken Salad is simple, flavorful, and just might be my favorite Chicken Salad ever!!!

If you never buy Tarragon and use it in recipes– you gotta start getting it! Tarragon is a leafy green herb widely used in French cooking (and the French know how to cook!!!) It’s flavor is strong and has an anise/licorice taste to it. But don’t let that deter you if you hate licorice (because I hate licorice). Adding fresh tarragon to a dish can immediately elevate it and take something typically mundane and transform it into something magnificent. For example, this simple chicken salad is restaurant worthy– and I give all the credit to the tarragon!

If you are from Dallas or San Antonio and have had the Chicken Salad from Bird Bakery— that is where the inspiration for this salad came from. It’s savory, yet the touch of dried cranberries give it a bit of sweetness and tartness that leaves you wanting MORE!

It may seem odd, but the key to making this salad mix so well to become so creamy and delicious is using a mixer. You can certainly just stir the heck out of it if you don’t have a mixer– but I love throwing mine in my Kitchen Aid mixer and letting that do the work. It makes the chicken shred ultra fine and the end results are just so delicious!

Tarragon Chicken Salad

Servings people

Ingredients

4 cups cooked chicken, loosely shredded I use rotisserie chickeen
1/2 cup finely diced celery
1/2 cup finely diced sweet onion yellow onion is ok, too
2 tbsp finely chopped fresh tarragon leaves
1/2 cup unsweetened dried cranberries
1/2 tsp garlic powder
2 tbsp fresh squeezed lemon juice
4 tbsp homemade mayo
1 tsp dijon mustard
kosher salt, to taste
black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Place all ingredients in the mixing bowl of a stand mixer and using a paddle attachment, mix until very well combined and the chicken is finely shredded. Taste and add salt and pepper, according to your taste buds!
*If you do not have a stand mixer no worries! Just be sure to shred the chicken really fine using your hands and then mix it *really well* when you stir to combine.
Refrigerate to chill and serve as desired! I love to serve mine over a bed of lettuce with veggies for dipping!

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January Whole30 Meal Plan Week 1

Tue, 29 Dec 2020 03:43:28 GMT

Whether you are participating in January Whole30 or not, planning out your weekly dinners makes such a difference! This Whole30 Meal Plan even includes a grocery list to make shopping less stressful.

Stay tuned for more weekly meal plans to help you throughout your January Whole30!

To download the full document, click here –> January Whole30 Meal Plan 1

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Martha’s Pork Pozole Verde

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 15:48:07 GMT

It’s been a long time coming but it’s finally here…. Martha’s Pork Pozole Verde!

Pozole is a traditional Mexican stew made with meat, spices, and most importantly — Hominy. Hominy is a type of dried, treated corn and it is always found in Pozole. Pozole can be prepared in many ways and the 3 most common types of Pozole are Rojo (red), Blanco (white), and Verde (green). I’ve honestly only ever had Rojo or Verde and love them both so much!

Today, we have a guest recipe share an authentic Pozole Verde made by my dear friend, Martha. Martha grew up in Leon, Mexico, which is in the state of Guanajuato where she grew up eating Pozole Verde in her home. She has told me all about her mother who was known for her incredible cooking. In fact, she was such a great cook that she even taught cooking classes in Leon while Martha was growing up. While I have never had Martha’s mother’s cooking, I can assure you that this recipe that she is sharing with us is absolutely incredible that she has passed down to her. While it takes time and attention to make a beautiful pot of Pozole, it’s worth every minute. The end result is absolutely outstanding and every bite is filled with comfort, love, and soul.

A Q+A with Martha about the Pozole Recipe:

Me: What do you serve the Pozole with?

Martha: We always serve Pozole with crispy tostadas. The salty crunch is so delicious… similar to soup with crackers! We never ever eat pozole without tostadas!

Me: Okay– I know this is a controversial question. Why do you top your pozole with lettuce? How come a lot of people choose cabbage?

Martha: This is definitely something that I know people from Mexico disagree on, but I grew up with shredded iceberg lettuce on top always. Many would argue that cabbage is the ‘correct’ way to top Pozole, but I always grew up with iceberg lettuce and to me it is the ‘correct’ way to eat Pozole. I prefer its texture and flavor in the soup. You prefer it with thinly sliced green cabbage though? Eat it with cabbage!

Me: This feeds a lot of people– How many people would you say this feeds? 16?

Martha: Alex, 16?? (laughs) I’d say 12!

Me: Does it freeze well?

Martha: yes, you can freeze it.

Me: Growing up, did you eat the Pozole regularly, or was it mainly for special occasions?

Martha: It is a very typical dish in Mexican. We eat it a lot in September, which is the National month. It’s perfect for any occasion– a birthday or a family gathering and it’s also served when it gets cold!

Martha, thank you so very much for sharing this special recipe with The Defined Dish community. I know it will be loved all over, and I will cherish this recipe forever!!

I hope you all enjoy Martha’s Pork Pozole Verde as much as we do!

Martha's Pork Pozole Verde

Servings People

Ingredients

4 - 4 ½ pounds bone-in pork shoulder quartered
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 large white onion quartered
1 ½ pounds tomatillos husked and rinsed
4 large poblano pepper cut in half lengthwise, seeds and core removed
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
4 cups packed, loosely chopped green leaf lettuce (or 1 head)
2 cups packed, loosely chopped cilantro leaves and tender stems
6 cloves garlic
2 [25 ounce] cans Mexican-style hominy drained and rinsed
Kosher salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

For serving:

½ head iceberg lettuce of green cabbage very thinly sliced
6 radishes thinly sliced
whole red chiles torn into small pieces (optional for spicy. You can also use crushed red chile flakes)
Freshly chopped cilantro
2 limes cut into wedges

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Heat a large pot or dutch oven over medium-high heat. When hot, add the pork, fat side down, to the skillet and sear until golden, 3 to 4 minutes.
Pour in enough water so that the pork is covered by one inch and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add 1 tablespoon of kosher salt and reduce heat to a rapid simmer and cook, covered, for 45 minutes.
Place the onion in a high-speed blender and add 3-4 ladles (about 1 cup) of the boiling water from the pot and blend until smooth. Pour into the stew pot. Cover and continue to simmer. (Keep the blender out, you’re going to need it a few more times).
Meanwhile, place the tomatillos and poblano peppers on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss to coat and transfer to the oven. Roast until the poblanos are tender and the tomatillos have softened, about 15 minutes.
Place the tomatillos and poblano peppers in the blender with 3-4 ladles of the liquid from the boiling pot. Blend until smooth and add to the stew. Cover and continue to cook.
Meanwhile, place the cilantro, green leaf lettuce, garlic with 3-4 ladles of the liquid from the boiling pot. Blend until smooth and add to the pot of stew.
Continue to simmer, covered, until the pork is very tender, about 2 - 2.5 more hours.
Using tongs, transfer the tender pork to a cutting board and cut into small, bite sized cubes and transfer back to the stew pot. Taste the stock and add more salt, as needed. The soup will need more than you think since it’s a very large pot of soup and you use water as the base to make the broth. Then, add the hominy (be sure to drain and rinse!) and continue to cook, covered, until the hominy is tender, about 20 more minutes.
When ready to serve, ladle the pozole into bowls and top with lettuce (or cabbage), sliced radishes, torn chiles (optional), cilantro, and serve with a lime wedge! Enjoy!

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Espresso Martini

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 22:33:31 GMT

Cheers to the holidays with this delicious Espresso Martini!! Here is one of my favorite cocktails that is perfect for any time of the year, but I find myself sipping on them the most around the holiday season.

This traditional recipe is a cold, coffee-infused cocktail made with vodka, hot espresso coffee, coffee liqueur, and sugar syrup (aka simple syrup) and served up in a martini glass or coupe (which is what I chose to serve mine in here). And I know it seems strange to shake hot espresso with the ice and other ingredients since this is a cold cocktail, but trust me here! The heat combining with the other ingredients helps to create the delicious foam we all love and since you will shake until you can’t hold the ice-cold shaker anymore, I promise your drink will still end up icy cold. And if you really want to ensure your drink is perfectly chilled, you can even fill your serving glass with ice and pop it in the fridge as you make your cocktail then empty the ice out once you’re ready to serve your cocktail.

No matter if it’s for the holidays or not, this is the perfect pick-me-up to either kick off the night OR to sip on post-dinner instead of (or with) your dessert. Enjoy!!

SHOP THE POST

Espresso Martini

Servings serving

Ingredients

3 oz vodka (or 2 "big jiggers" full, I use Titos)
1 oz kahlua (1 "small jigger" full)
1 oz simple syrup (1 "small jigger" full)
1.5 oz large hot espresso (or 1 "big jiggers" full, see note for why it needs to be hot!)

Instructions

Fill a cocktail shaker full of ice. Add the vodka, kahlua, simple syrup and hot espresso. Close, seal and shake until very cold (at least 20 seconds).
Place the strainer on top of the shaker and pour the contents through a sieve (optional) and directly into the glass.

Notes

It may seem strange to pour hot espresso into a cold drink, but the heat combining with the other ingredients in the cold shaker help to create the foam! The strainer and the sieve additionally help to create a rich, smooth, froth without any pieces of ice.

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Holiday Meal Ideas

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 17:58:09 GMT

Whether you just need a few appetizer ideas or help with a multi-course dinner, these recipes are the perfect addition to your holiday meal!

clayton’s holiday margarita

This is a fun, simple holiday twist on Clayton’s Margarita that is perfectly festive!

Get the recipe: Clayton’s Holiday Margarita

espresso martini

This is the perfect pick-me-up to kick off the night, to sip on post-dinner instead of (or with) your dessert. and even for a holiday brunch!

Get the recipe: Espresso Martini

holiday sangria

Because what are the holidays without a cocktail or two?

Get the recipe: Holiday Sangria

sileo celery salad

This has been in my family for generations and generations on my Mom’s side of the family. Growing up, my mom and her family (who is of Italian descent) would make this celery salad as part of our antipasti platter for every gathering!

Get the recipe: Sileo Celery Salad

hatch green chile crab dip

Here is a delicious, hot and bubbly Hatch Green Chile Crab Dip with the delightful flavors of Hatch chiles infused in the dish.

Get the recipe: Hatch Green Chile Crab Dip

chorizo-stuffed bacon-wrapped dates

Delicious and flavorful chorizo, stuffed in sweet dates, and wrapped with crispy, salty bacon — these little bites will wow your guests and your taste buds!

Get the recipe: Chorizo-stuffed Bacon-wrapped Dates

dairy-free crab rangoons with sweet and sour sauce

This is a super fun appetizer for the holidays, but it’s also just a fun item to put at the dinner table any day of the week to enjoy!

Get the recipe: Dairy-Free Crab Rangoons with Sweet and Sour Sauce

deviled eggs

Deviled Eggs are one of those appetizers that are perfect for any gathering!

Get the recipe: Deviled Eggs

crockpot cranberry-orange meatballs

With a delicious, homemade cranberry-orange sauce (that is super easy to make) + some simple baked beef meatballs you’ll have a clean, Whole30 appetizer in no time.

Get the recipe: Crockpot Cranberry-Orange Meatballs

cranberry-brie bites

You’ll watch these disappear in no time. In fact, you should just go ahead and make 2 batches of these like my mom does!

Get the recipe: Cranberry-Brie Bites

seared beef filet bites with horseradish sauce

This Seared Beef Filet Bites with Horseradish Sauce appetizer couldn’t be easier, it’s healthy, and it’s hearty!

Get the recipe: Seared Beef Filet Bites with Horseradish Sauce

bibb lettuce salad with black truffle vinaigrette and mimolette

It’s almost difficult for me to put into words how much I love this salad. It’s so simple, yet so elegant, and it’s just absolutely show-stopping and delicious!

Get the recipe: Bibb Lettuce Salad with Black Truffle Vinaigrette and Mimolette

asparagus and tomato caprese salad with burrata and herbs

You can use any sort of tomato in this Asparagus and Tomato Caprese Salad with Burrata recipe, but I love using heirloom tomatoes here when available to add color and character to the dish.

Get the recipe: Asparagus and Tomato Caprese Salad with Burrata and Herbs

kale salad with roasted delicata squash and miso dressing

You may not think a salad would bring the wow-factor to the table but I can assure you that THIS Kale Salad with Roasted Delicata Squash and Miso Dressing salad will absolutely wow your guests!

Get the recipe: Kale Salad with Roasted Delicata Squash and Miso Dressing

creamy mushroom risotto

Here is a very simple recipe for a Creamy Mushroom Risotto that I know you’ll love for the holidays or special dinner at home, just get those stirring arms ready.

Get the recipe: Creamy Mushroom Risotto

lobster ravioli

This Lobster Ravioli makes for a delicious first course for any special occasion — it’s elegant yet simple, it’s buttery and it’s just a burst of goodness in your mouth with every bite!!

Get the recipe: Lobster Ravioli

linguine with clams, chiles and salami – page 218

I’ve taken classic linguine with clams and given it my own spin!

Get the recipe: The Defined Dish Cookbook Page

the best bolognese sauce

I have a few bolognese sauce recipes out there in the world, but this is seriously The Best Bolognese Sauce and my favorite for special occasions.

Get the recipe: The Best Bolognese Sauce

bottle of wine braised brisket

This Bottle of Wine Braised Brisket is the perfect main-course when entertaining! While the cook time may be long, the preparation is simple and it turns out delicious every time! It also feeds a very large amount of people and it is a TOTAL crowdpleaser.

Get the recipe: Bottle of Wine Braised Brisket

sheet pan rack of lamb with potatoes and mint chimichurri – page 215

A roasted rack of lamb always adds elegance to a dinner.

Get the recipe: The Defined Dish Cookbook Page

porcini rubbed ribeye with arugula salad

A perfectly seared ribeye steak, seasoned with a delicious dry rub of savory porcini mushrooms, then topped with a light and peppery arugula salad!

Get the recipe: Porcini Rubbed Ribeye with Arugula Salad

blueberry filet mignon with cauliflower mash – page 223

This sweet and savory sauce will take your filet up a notch.

Get the recipe: The Defined Dish Cookbook Page

israeli couscous milanese with seared halibut

I’ve taken one of my favorite risotto recipes and turned it into an easy-to-make Israeli couscous version with a perfectly seared halibut.

Get the recipe: Israeli Couscous Milanese with Seared Halibut

french chicken with creamy mustard-white wine sauce

This French Chicken with Creamy Mustard-White Wine Sauce is one of those recipes that will make you fall in love with chicken all over again.

Get the recipe: French Chicken with Creamy Mustard-White Wine Sauce

apple cider roasted root vegetables

Simple, yet bursting with flavor!

Get the recipe: Apple Cider Roasted Root Vegetables

sour cream and onion potato bake

Here is a recipe that combines two of my favorite things: sour cream and onion flavor + mashed potatoes.

Get the recipe: Sour Cream and Onion Potato Bake

brussels sprouts au gratin

The Brussels sprouts are simply roasted until golden-brown, then topped in a delicious creamy sauce that I quickly made on the stovetop and sprinkled with some Gruyere cheese!

Get the recipe: Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin

The post Holiday Meal Ideas appeared first on The Defined Dish.

Miso Roasted Chicken

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 15:55:03 GMT

Over Thanksgiving, I had a little fun in the kitchen and did a very untraditional Thanksgiving feast for myself, Clayton and the girls. It was a great way to distract myself from the fact that we weren’t able to spend the day with family this year like we normally do. One of the things I made was a delicious Miso Roasted Chicken!

Because it was just the four of us and the smallest turkey I could find was a beast of 20 pounds, I decided to just grab a whole chicken instead to serve my family. I simply spatchcocked (aka butterflied) a chicken then marinated it in a delicious, miso marinade for the whole day. I then threw it in the oven and roasted it to golden perfection — it was just so delicious! Lots of lovely, umami flavor came through and my whole family loved it!

I won’t lie to y’all, I still haven’t nailed down the exact recipe I created over Thanksgiving. To be completely honest, I was a little tipsy and I didn’t write it down. I can’t recall what I did differently but dang, it turned out so so perfect on Thanksgiving that I will continue to strive for that same perfection! But, this is very close and it’s really delicious!

In the meantime, this is a great rendition of the Miso Roasted Chicken I did for Thanksgiving for you to enjoy with your family!

Miso Roasted Chicken

Servings people

Ingredients

1 [3.5 - 4 pound] whole chicken
1/4 cup avocado oil
1/4 cup mirin
1/4 cup coconut aminos
2 tbsp white miso paste
1 tsp fish sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
kosher salt
black or white pepper

Instructions

First, spatchcock the chicken (this is when you remove the backbone of the chicken so that it cooks more evenly. Here is how: Using a good pair of poultry sheers, cut along the right of the backbone from the tail to the neck. Next, cut along the left side of the backbone, just as you did on the right side. Turn the chicken over and press down on the breasts so that the chicken lays flat.
In a bowl, combine the avocado oil, miso paste, mirin, coconut aminos, fish sauce, and garlic, whisk until well combined. Brush the miso mixture all over the bird so that it is evenly coated.
Lightly sprinkle the top of the bird with salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate to marinade the bird for at least 4 hours, but up to over night.
Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
Transfer the chicken to the oven and roast, uncovered until the chicken is cooked through, basting the chicken in the glaze about halfway through the cooktime. My chicken took right around 30 minutes.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.

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Lobster Ravioli

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 17:53:13 GMT

This Lobster Ravioli makes for a delicious first course for any special occasion — especially the upcoming holidays for a fancier recipe! It’s elegant yet simple, it’s buttery and it’s just a burst of goodness in your mouth with every bite!!

If you live in Dallas and have dined at the Italian restaurant, Nonna, you’ll easily guess where the inspiration for this recipe came from. Their Ravioli of Maine Lobster on the menu is just the richest, butteriest, uncomplicated dish on the menu that you simply cannot get enough of!!! The ravioli is served in a simple, buttery broth and the lobster filling just melts in your mouth! If you live in Dallas and have yet to try it, it is a must.

When adding this to a fancy menu over the holidays this could easily be your main course if serving heavy appetizers; however, I prefer it as a first course when you just sit down at the table. It’s little, pillowy dumplings of lobster in a simple broth just to get the dinner going and set the tone for the meal! I’d then go into a nice crisp salad, followed by something like a prime rib, a juicy filet mignon, or braised brisket — whatever your heart desires.

Lobster Ravioli

Servings servings

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp salted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
a pinch of saffron (20-24 threads)
3/4 cup white wine
14.5 oz good quality seafood stock (I use Bar Harbor)

For the Ravioli:

3/4 lb cooked lobster meat
24 wonton or ravioli wrappers
3 tbsp salted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 cup white wine
1/4 cup finely chopped chives
egg white

For serving:

1/2 lemon
finely chopped chives

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, heat the oil and butter.
Once the butter is melted, add the garlic. Gently saute until fragrant, being careful not to burn; 1-2 minutes.
Add the wine and seafood stock and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a light simmer and cover.

Prepare the Ravioli Filling:

Loosely chop the lobster meat.
In a separate skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
Once the butter has melted, add the lobster, garlic and salt and stir to combine.
Next, add the wine and cook, stirring, until it has reduced by half.
Remove from heat, add the loosely chopped chives and set aside.

Assemble + Cook the Ravioli:

Place the egg white in a small bowl.
Place one wonton wrapper onto your cutting board, then using a slotted spoon, transfer about 1 tbsp. of the lobster filling onto one side of the wrapper.
Using your fingers, wet the edges of the wonton with the egg white then fold in half and seal the edges. Continue until all of your ravioli are formed.
Once you're ready to cook your ravioli, increase the heat of the broth for a rapid simmer. Add half of your ravioli to the broth. Cook for about 3 minutes until the ravioli float to the top.
Divide the ravioli into two serving bowls then repeat with the second half of the ravioli.
Once all ravioli are cooked and divided into your bowls, laddle 1/2 cup to 3/4 cup of the broth over each bowl of ravioli.
Squeeze half of the lemon over all four bowls, top with freshly chopped parsley. Serve and enjoy!

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Bottle of Wine Braised Brisket

Sun, 13 Dec 2020 13:36:18 GMT

I once made this recipe for a group dinner that I was catering (something I don’t normally do, for the record… it was for a charity auction). When I made it the first time I actually cooked it at an even lower temperature overnight and it was outstanding! I knew it would make most people a little nervous to cook the meat overnight (I myself was a little worried and woke up a few times to check on the brisket, ha), but I knew I just had to recreate the same recipe to share with you all to make this holiday season. With this cooking method, the brisket is made in about 4 hours and it is still fall-apart tender and absolutely delicious!

The ‘bottle of wine’ aspect might make you a little skeptical but let me assure you it adds such a lovely flavor to the brisket. Most of the alcohol cooks off when it’s cooking, so the brisket won’t make you drunk. The longer you cook, the more alcohol cooks out, and I have read that you have to cook food for about 3 hours to fully erase all traces of alcohol. [source: Food Network] The white wine does add brightness and acidity to the dish, which I find brings out all of the lovely flavors of the brisket, herbs, and all of the other lovely ingredients used in this dish.

If you are really trying to serve up a 5-star restaurant quality dinner, try serving this Bottle of Wine Braised Brisket with this Mushroom Risotto. The creamy, starchy base topped with the rich, flavorful braised beef is a force to be reckoned with. Serve it with this lovely butter lettuce salad and you have yourself the best dinner!!!

Bottle of Wine Braised Brisket

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 4 hours

Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

4 - 4.5 lbs. Flat-Cut Brisket
3 teaspoons kosher Salt
2 teaspoons black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ cup flour
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
2 cups diced yellow onion or 1 large onion
1 cup diced celery or 2 stalks
¾ cup diced carrot or 1 large carrot
3 cloves garlic thinly sliced
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tbsp grainy dijon
1 bottle of dry white wine I use a chardonnay
1 cup beef or chicken broth
2 bay leaves
2 sprigs rosemary
5 sprigs thyme
kitchen twine

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 300 degrees.
Cut the brisket in half, crosswise. Season the beef all over with the salt, pepper, and smoked paprika and using your hands, rub the seasoning into the meat evenly. Next, sprinkle the flour over the meat and rub into the meat so that it evenly coats the beef on all sides.
Heat the olive oil in a large dutch oven over medium heat. When hot, sear the beef (you’ll do this in two batches) so that it is golden brown on both sides, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Transfer the browned meat to a plate and set aside until both pieces of the meat are browned.
Add the onion, celery, carrot and garlic and cook, stirring, until the veggies are just tender, 5 to 7 minutes.
Add the tomato paste and dijon mustard and stir to combine. While stirring, slowly pour in the white wine until well combined. Next, add the broth.
Nestle the browned brisket into the sauce. Add the bay leaves. Using some kitchen twine, make a small bouquet of the thyme and rosemary by tying a little bow around sprigs. Add that to the sauce.
Cover with a tight fitting lid and transfer to the oven. Bake until the brisket is fork tender, about 4 hours.
Transfer the cooked brisket to a large sheet pan and using two forks, shred the brisket. Discard the bay leaves and the herb bouquet. Using a spoon, spoon out any excess fat that has accumulated at the top of the sauce. Place the shredded beef back into the pot and toss with the remaining sauce in the skillet.
Serve and enjoy!

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Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Sun, 13 Dec 2020 13:35:28 GMT

People love to complain about making risotto, but I find it to be one of the most relaxing, therapeutic things to do. Here is a very simple recipe for a Creamy Mushroom Risotto that I know you’ll love for the holidays or special dinner at home, just get those stirring arms ready.

Risotto isn’t necessarily “difficult” to make, it just takes some time, attention, patience and little finesse. It does require you hovering over the stove top for about 30 minutes but hey, grab a chair, a glass of wine (or another beverage of choice, maybe a Holiday Clayton Margarita?) and ladle, stir, stir, and ladle again. The end result is creamy, hearty, and just decadent. To me, it’s always worth the tedious time to build more flavor and make a dish extra special. Those are the dishes that are made with the most love!

You can certainly serve this Creamy Mushroom Risotto alone as a nice vegetarian main dish, but you can really top it with any protein! Try it topped with some seared scallops, shrimp or halibut! Or, if you really want to go big — serve it under this delicious Bottle of Wine Braised Brisket for the ultimate entertaining recipe!

Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 40 minutes

Servings people

Ingredients

8 oz bella mushrooms thinly sliced
4 oz shitake mushrooms unchopped if they are small. If your shiitake mushrooms are on the larger size, cut them in half
8 cups vegetable or chicken broth
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 cup finely diced yellow onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp pepper
2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
2 cups uncooked arborio rice
1 cup dry white wine I use chardonnay
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

Heat the broth in a saucepan over medium heat.
Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large pot or dutch oven. Once heated, add the onion, mushrooms, garlic, salt, pepper and fresh thyme leaves. Cook, stirring, until the mushrooms are tender; about 5 minutes.
Add the rice to the pot and stir to toast the rice until fragrant; about 2 minutes.
Next, add the white wine and continue to cook stirring until the wine is absorbed.
Once the wine is absorbed, with a ladle add one cup of the warm broth to the risotto and continue to cook stirring until the broth is absorbed fully.
Continue to ladle the broth one cup at a time, allowing the rice to absorb most of the liquid before adding more. This process should take 25-30 minutes (and you should use all or almost all of the warm broth from the saucepan). Your rice should be tender and creamy.
Add the grated parmesan and stir one more until combined.

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Holiday Clayton Margarita

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 22:46:10 GMT

Here is a fun, simple Holiday twist on Clayton’s margarita that is perfectly festive!

Yeah, it doesn’t take rocket science to make a tweak or two to his original recipe–but, TIS THE SEASON to have a little fun and give everything a little holiday spirit! A little pomegranate juice, a sprig of rosemary– and ho, ho, ho!!!

Holiday Clayton Margarita

Servings

Ingredients

1 cup good tequila (We love Lalo or Casamigos; you can always use a little less if you don't want it as strong)
1/4 cup cointreau
1/2 cup simple syrup
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/4 cup pomegranate juice
1 tsp egg whites (fresh or out of the carton is fine!)
salt, for serving (I love Jose's Turbo Salt for this recipe — sweet and salty with a kick)

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until very frothy!
Pour over a salt-rimmed glass filled with ice.
Enjoy!

Notes

Clayton says he never stores his batch of margaritas in the fridge, as they tend to get tart in the fridge. He leaves on the counter while people serve up their own glasses. If foam begins to disappear, simply blend again before pouring another round.

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2020 Holiday Gift Guides

Fri, 27 Nov 2020 14:31:04 GMT

It’s that time of year again — holiday gift-giving. I’ve pulled some fun ideas that I personally love OR I love to give, in my 2020 Holiday Gift Guides below. There is a little bit of something for everyone!

A friendly note before you shop to try and shop local for these when you can! If there is a local bookstore that you love– be sure to check and see if they sell the books I recommended by some of my favorite Authors that I love to support.

I’ll be sharing some fun, local ideas later this week for all of you DFW folks!! But here is a round up of some great gifts in the meantime for all to enjoy.

The Defined Dish: Healthy and Wholesome Weeknight Recipes– I’ve teamed up with one of my favorite local book stores to bring you copies of my book personally addressed to the ones you love most!!
Minted Gold-Foil Recipe Card: This past year I scanned one of my grandmother’s old recipe cards and had it printed in gold-foil and framed from Minted. It sits in my office above my desk and her handwritten recipe always makes me smile.
Salt & Pepper Grinders: I really want these!!!
Sleek Measuring Spoons: Every time I use these on Instagram, people ask me about them! While they aren’t the cutest, they are nice and practical because they easily fit into the spice jars.
The Honeysuckle Cookbook: This new book by Dzung Lewis is not only beautiful but delicious too! It is filled with Asian inspired dishes that you’ll love!
One Pot Keto Cooking: If you are looking for easy, delicious, practical dinners, this book by Charlotte Smythe is FANTASTIC.
Our Place Pan: The pan you are likely seeing everywhere you turn, ha!! Here is my two cents on it: as far as a nice non-toxic pan, goes it performs really well. My favorite part (other than how cute it is) is the steamer basket insert for quickly steaming veggies for my kiddos! It really is great!
What’s Gaby Cooking: Eat What You Want: Everything Gaby does is just delicious!!! Perfect for the foodie!
Muffin Pan: An adorable muffin pan for the baker in your life.
Ballarini Non-Stick Skillet: This is my all-time favorite non-stick skillet. I have had mine for years and it performs so well!
Pineapple Collaborative Olive Oils: This women-owned-and-made olive oil is chic and delicious!!!! The tins come in 5 colors and make such fun gifts!
The Primal Gourmet Cookbook: If you love my cookbook, you are going to love Ronny’s! This book is fantastic, delicious and easy to follow!
Immersion Blender: If you don’t already have an immersion blender, get one and change your life!!
Amazon Echo Show 5: My favorite cooking ‘gadget.’ I love using Alexa as my sous chef in the kitchen, from setting timers, asking conversions, and setting the mood with good playlists!
Simple Beautiful Food: This book is exactly what it says it is. Amanda Frederickson filled it with simple, beautiful food that EVERYONE will love! Such a great gift.
Staub Cast-Iron Dutch Oven: My most prized possession in the kitchen. It’s an investment that I will love forever and I know you all will too.

Z Supply Camo Weekender– This pullover top is my favorite!
The Hunter Tassel Earring: This color! So cute.
Fabletics High-Waisted Cold Weather Pocket Legging: My current favorite legging!
All Birds Wool Lounger Fluffs: My mom recently got me these slippers and they are HEAVENLY.
Cora Statement Earrings: Timeless and pretty!
Tumi Voyageur Carson Laptop Backpack: I have two Tumi backpacks and they are essentials for me. The Dori, is the smaller one that I use daily as my purse. The Carson, pictured above, is a larger bag that is great to use as a briefcase/laptop case + the wonderful for travel! This is definitely an investment piece but one of my favorite things I own!
Reuse Mask – Haze: The comfiest face masks!
Hotel San Jose Robe: This one makes it to my list *every year* and that’s because it’s the best gift ever!
Necessaire – The Body Ritual – Bergamot Scent is my personal favorite; however, they all rock! Use code ‘ALEX10′ for 10% off your order!
Thryv Organics CBD Bath Bombs: Use code ‘DEFINEDDISH’ for 25% off your order of any of the Thryv products.
Maison Storage Bath Caddy: For the bath lover in your life!!
Branch Basics Premium Starter Kit: Use code ‘DEFINEDDISH’ for 20% off all kits!!! I recommend the Starter kit + Oxyboost!
Truffle Co. Clarity Clutch: The best for travel and to keep your purse organized.
Estelle Colored Champagne Coupe – Amber Smoke: I am asking for these!! So fabulous.

Camp High Northern Lights Shorts: You may have seen clayton rocking these fun, tie dye shorts on my stories. He loves all things by Camp High but these are his favorite.
Lava Lamp: My brother-in-law gave Clayton a lava lamp one year for Christmas as more of a gag gift, but, it’s seriously SUCH A MOOD in our lounge room. I love it and it’s the perfect gift for the funky, fun person in your life.
Vinyl Me Please Record of the Month Club: Clayton has been a member of this for years! It’s a great way to discover new artists and a fantastic gift!
Ranch Rider Snapback Hat: If you are a Ranch Rider fan (*we are proud investors*) they have shirts and hats on their website that rock!
Agate Desk Clock
Estelle Colored Decanter – Amber Smoke: I just love the color and how sleek this decanter is.
Estelle Colored Rocks Glass – Amber Smoke
Fly by Jing Triple Threat Trio: Clayton is in love with Sichuan food and Sichuan peppercorns. These sauces are INSANELY delicious.
Crosley C6 Record Player: Clayton’s record playing set up today is very curated/intense; however, when he first started his record collection years ago he had a Crosley. It’s great quality, looks nice, and worked wonders until he upgraded to his very fancy stereo equipment that he has today.
Vans Checkerboard Slip-On – Black + White: These slips are a staple in Clayton’s closet.
Cashmere Hoodie: Clayton loves this sweater and the pants that go with it! Wears them both regularly.
Echo Studio Smart Speaker with Alexa: This speaker is awesome. It’s easy to transport and has great sound. We even take it out to our pool (when the weather permits) and the quality of it always blows me away! Clayton loves it.

Personalized Denim Jacket: I recently got my girls these and they are ADORABLE.
Checkerboard Slip-On – Black + White
Magna-Tiles: This is the gift that keeps on giving. We’ve had these since the kiddos were young, and they still play with them to this day!
Women in Art Book Gift Set:
Doll Closet: I just got this for the girls for Christmas I thought they would love hanging up their dolls’ clothes!
La Paloma Nightgown: *Use code ALEX15 for 15% off.
Galaxycove Projector: Clayton found this and we purchased it for the girls for Christmas! It looks so fun!
Ripple Reads Single Kit or Subscription: If conscious gifting is top of mind for you this season, I am loving the family book club that helps raise empowered kids called Ripple Reads. For the holidays you can gift single kits or a recurring subscription to Ripple Reads which includes: a picture book, sticker sheets, postcards and a workbook with family discussion guide and other activities to help you have meaningful conversations with elementary age kids about race, justice and empathy in a way that is not only approachable and honest, but also FUN! Everything Ripple Reads produces is crafted in partnership with leading experts and university professors in the field of race, teaching and curriculum. The organization is founded and run by parents themselves of different racial backgrounds, which I really appreciate! Ripple Reads is offering our readers 20% off their holiday orders with the code DEFINEDDISH20. They recommend ordering by December 14 to receive orders by Christmas. For every purchase made with this code or link, Ripple Reads will also donate a kit of Ripple Reads via their scholarship fund to mentors of Friends of the Children nonprofit organization. This 1:1 program is equivalent to a $25 donation plus the impact of helping Friends of the Children caregivers educate and empower the children they support to break cycles of generational poverty.
Scooter Luggage: Sick of lugging your own luggage plus your kids’ luggage around? Well, this scooter bag is EVERYTHING!! My girls are obsessed.
Leather Star Jacket: Another adorable gift!
Yoga Cards
Positive Vibes Yoga Mat
Reuse Masks – Set of 5: My girls have to wear masks to school, and these fit the best by far!
Tea Set: Because who doesn’t want to have a tea party?

If you want to give my cookbook as a gift, here are some other fun add-ins you can throw in there. All are very “on brand” that your loved ones might love!

The Defined Dish: Healthy and Wholesome Weeknight Recipes
Thro Ceramics Salt + Pepper Shakers: These salt + pepper shakers are one of my absolute favorites! Thank you Anna Mae Groves for introducing them to me! While the website is currently private, check Instagram for updates on when the shakers will be available to purchase for Christmas. I also promise these are worth the wait if you have to pre-order — you can always include a photo and gift once they arrive!
Clayton’s Margarita Cups
Pineapple Collaborative Olive Oil
Fly by Jing Triple Threat Trio: Soooo good – they make my Sichuan pepper loving heart SING!
Ranch Water Cups
Anchovies Can Ornament

The post 2020 Holiday Gift Guides appeared first on The Defined Dish.

Leftover Turkey Ideas

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 16:33:48 GMT

From simple bone broth to delicious soups, salads and Paleo Pot Pies, put your leftover turkey to use with these recipe ideas!

bone broth

If you haven’t heard of bone broth, this is is the blog post for you! I have all the information you need on the benefits of bone broth + how to make your own from your leftover turkey so you can have on hand to drink or use in other recipes.

Get the recipe: Bone Broth: What it is, why I drink it, and how to make it.

leftover thanksgiving turkey noodle soup

We all have our favorite things to do with leftover turkey. For me, it will forever be the simple classics: Turkey Sandwiches and Turkey Noodle Soup. Ah, all the feels.

Get the recipe: Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Noodle Soup

dairy-free creamy chicken + wild rice soup

Use your homemade turkey bone broth and replace the chicken in this recipe with diced turkey and you’ll have a delicious dairy-free soup!

Get the recipe: Dairy-Free Creamy Chicken + Wild Rice Soup

gluten-free and dairy-free chicken and dumplings

Is there anything more down-home, cold-weather cozy, and oh-so-satisfying than Chicken and Dumplings? Only Turkey and Dumplings!

Get the recipe: Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Chicken and Dumplings

chicken enchilada soup

If you are a lover of hearty, bold flavors in your soups, you’ll absolutely just love this recipe.

Get the recipe: Chicken Enchilada Soup

king ranch chicken soup

This is a fun take on a classic Texas dish, King Ranch Casserole!

Get the recipe: King Ranch Chicken Soup

creamy tortilla-less soup

Pour this luscious soup over your diced or shredded turkey and you’ll have a delicious leftover lunch in no time.

Get the recipe: Creamy Tortilla-Less Soup

ultimate chicken taco salad

A big bowl of veggies topped with leftover turkey that is tossed in the most magnificent blend of spices and all drizzled with your favorite avocado ranch dressing — yes please!

Get the recipe: Ultimate Chicken Taco Salad