Happy Birthday @buckyoffical !!! An extra special birthday for an extra special man! We have never seen the Christmas Spectacular, it was so fun to see it young and old together with new eyes. What a wonderful memory to commemorate the season and our number 1 guy! #rockettes #memories #christmasinnyc
When you are going through a difficult time in your life it is possible that your recall becomes cloudy. When it is one rainy day after another, you start forgetting what the sunshine is like. One grief filled day rolls into the next. One stressful situation piles on top of another. We can start to get lost wading in the murky waters. Soon we start forgetting about the good parts. The sunny days, the goals met, the successes or deliverance we have experienced in the past. Maybe not even wanting to recognize any of the goodness that surrounds us. May I suggest in those moments you consider making your own highlight reel? But not on your own. Ask for him to reveal to you the highlights. Not just looking for the standard marks of “success.”As I started looking through photos and videos I started to remember. Where I was at certain points and where he had brought me too. I also realized I was piecing together more family moments than career based ones. I would really like to give up the war between what everyone else says is “right” and what I actually know to be true in my heart. I would really like to move forward but give up the pace at which I think it would be done. I would love to declare, “I am back!” but without the same hustle culture mistakes I made before. Yes, I am grieving what I perceived to have “lost.” But then leaning more into the chance to truly build back in a sustainable way. And that way needs to be fully surrendered. Because I know now more than ever his plan is truly greater. Why spend the energy stifling it? I can work in partnership with him, I do not have to carry the whole load. I get to have a new chapter, and I can’t wait to see what he writes. I hope you are still here for it when it unfolds. I have a feeling it is going to be delicious! I challenge you to make #yourhighlightreel #dishspiration #encouragingwords
Years ago when Siena came along we had a very unexpected situation. Two months early, emergency c-section, blood transfusions, just a lot of scary stuff. Then a couple of years of walking through postpartum depression, and PTSD. However, God walked with me the whole way, from the hospital bed to the NICU, through the depression, and after a couple of years coming out the other side so to speak. Recently, I had decided to part with my diaper bag that was tucked away in a closet. As I emptied the bag of the cheddar bunnies crushed in the bottom, bibs, and diaper cream, a couple of Bible verses fell out of the bag. I carried them with me back and forth from the hospital. Today I took those verses with me as I started what I hope is the final piece to my thyroid cancer treatment. To be honest, the part I dreaded the most, even more than the surgeries.I wrestle with what to say, because I know there are some that have just as much struggle. However, it doesn’t take away the validity of my current feelings. It seems I reserve everything I have for my family. I am really going to have to exercise an even deeper surrender. I truly cannot control the outcome, I can only do so much to worry and guard against the effects of the treatment on myself or others, which seems to be the piece that I struggle with the most. I can’t foresee what I will hear or my scans will show. But that is the difference, the difference that I hope helps illustrate faith in Jesus to others. I recognize the need to now be carried. I see where my capacity ends. But that is where he takes over. I see the necessity in true surrender. What a wonderful thing to know there is someone beyond me holding me, interceding for me, and working where I cannot. Who knew the verses that fell out of the diaper bag would comfort me today? He did. Why wouldn’t I expect him to deliver me once again, just as he has before. He has continually found ways to remind me and encourage me to finish strong.
An accurate description of this holiday season… We had a really great run this December. But right as the day came it became a dance in between one illness after another. This year has handed me lots of time in bed for recovery after surgeries and such. But I have to remember it also made me able to do things I was afraid I wouldn’t have the strength for. This season can magnify both sides of the coin. Everything we are grateful for, as well as make the challenges we are trudging through a bit deeper. Maybe you are like I was years ago trying to “celebrate” through postpartum depression and anxiety, or maybe you are trying to be “merry” amidst grief, uncertainty, or a troubling diagnosis. All of the years’ moments in review and goals for the new year. They are leaving you with a deeper sense of regret or disappointment. I could feel my sense of gratefulness grow weary. One of the things I am finding is well, that’s okay. However, if I miss the “new year, new me” when the ball drops, that’s okay. Because his mercies are new everyday. His time table is not one that is dictated or hindered by our earthly time table. So while all my prospects do not seem to be glowing, or what lies ahead in the immediate new year isn’t something to raise my glass too, it isn’t over. I didn’t miss the boat. There are still celebrations ahead. I am going to keep crossing the bridges as they come. . And hopefully crossing more faithfully & gracefully each one. Not waiting for something to drop but rather unfold. That requires an enormous amount of perseverance and faith. I will be moving forward little by little, instead of worrying about leaps and bounds. Waiting for what he unfolds. Instead of chasing a fleeting moment of joy. It takes a little more work but the reward is everlasting. #encouragement #dishspiration #atthekitchensink
I teamed up with @americandairyne to make milk moments with my little elf this season. What better way to make those special milk moments than with easy to make recipes that kiddos can join in on making! We made this delicious Hot Chocolate Board and Holiday Cookie Milk. If you visit makemilkmoments.com, you can get the full recipe details and enter the American Dairy sweepstakes for a chance to win $1,000! #ad #sponsored #makemilkmoments (T&C apply)
Did you miss us ?!!!? I could make thousand of these husband/wife Christmas reels. You know you need a good laugh right about now! @bgonsar you are a good sport ! But seriously raise your hand if you shop for yourself more during December than you do any other time of year. But yet have “no time” to put anything on your Christmas list bc your busy making merry magic ?!! So many contradictions in my life during Christmas! But ps- make sure you have scheduled some time for yourself over the next couple of days to sit and stare at the tree mama, because you truly make this season merry ! #momlife #thecouplethateats #goodlaugh #holidaylaugh
Need a big batch cocktail for this weekend? May I suggest the Home Alone inspired, “Les Incompetents” sounds fancy and french, but it is super simple! Add all the ingredients into a big pitcher and stir! Maybe freeze the orange slices before putting them into the container to help keep the drink cool! If you need the recipe for the simple syrup you can check my web site and I might post a quick reel later on! Make sure you are 21 to enjoy! 2 bottles of merlot 3 cups pineapple juice 1 bottle prosecco 3/4 cup chambord 1/4 cup cinnamon simple syrup (recipe on dishitgirl.com) 1 orange, sliced #batchdrinks #christmasparty #christmascocktails #cocktailrecipes #easyrecipe
Look what you did you little jerk! Oh , I did it ! A Home Alone themed Christmas Party! Sourced a lot the decor from @etsy and Amazon. Made sure I used a lot of red with green, sone tartan 90s vibes. Watched the movie for food themes, then executed them. Probably should have catered but that’s a debate for another time ! I started this Christmas party when I was still living with my parents , haha! What a blessing to still be getting together! Some details below! Anyone want the Les Incompetant Sangria recipe ?!! – Kenosha kicker – lemonade punch with sugared cranberries – What the French call “Les Incompents” Sangria – Mini “Uncle Franks” – Nutritious Mac and Cheese: A Rosemary and garlic infused Mac and Cheese -A Flight to Paris: Steak & Gruyère Sliders and “ Frites” – Little Nero’s Pizza And Buzzes girlfriend made a bunch of antipasto boards lol !!! Let me know if should round up links to the decor for you guys! Hope you are sharing this weekend with someone you love ! #christmasdiy #homealone #partytheme #christmascocktails #holidayrecipes #holidaytable #partydecor
Those who plant in tears…Those who weep as they go to plant their seed..will harvest with shouts of joy. It is no coincidence that I came across these verses in Psalms in my reading time these past couple of days. As always I try to be fully transparent. In hopes that my walk will maybe help someone understand why Jesus is necessary in our life. Not that being a Christian should look a certain way or mean things are magically easier. But how he walks with you in the valley. Real life happens, we can’t necessarily stop it, but it doesn’t have to stop us. Because it cannot stop the plans he has set in motion for us. I praised him and prayed through lots of tears. Maybe some gritted teeth at times. My hand might have been a bit shaky as I took the radiation pills. I may have tossed and turned over things that do not need to be put in writing. I started entertaining the question. “why?” I even may have started to look at what I had felt I lost this past year for a moment rather than recalling what I accomplished through him despite of. I still struggle with these things but… But then he revealed some answers to my question of timing as I sat down to edit my book despite my thoughts of defeat. He showed me all I truly had as my family worked hard and worked together to take care of me this past week. As a steady stream of messages came to check on me .Then he asked me to be honest with my unbelief and to admit my level of fear has contributed to this for many years. Then he asked me to get up and to keep sowing. And everytime I think of my unbelief, I will then say how Great is our God, until my unbelief is no more. #encouragingwords #scriptureoftheday #shelivesfearless #cancerjourney #howgreatthouart
Everyone is looking for crunchy salad ideas right now. This one is super simple but satisfying. The inspiration came from one of my favorite NJ diners. Earlier this year I did a couple of NJ diner inspired recipes ! I keep in a big container and munch on it all week long! I throw chickpeas some weeks ! The best part is, the longer it sits the better it gets. It is also the perfect side to a grilled cheese or burger. Salad 2 ½ cups shredded cabbage 1 green bell pepper chopped 2-3 carrots sliced Dressing ¼ cup white vinegar 2 tbsp neutral oil of choice (olive oil will alter the taste) 3 tbsp granulated sugar 1 tsp celery salt pepper to taste Whisk ingredients together and pour over the salad until well coated. Place salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. #dishitgirl #healthyrecipes #saladrecipe #njdiner #crunchyfood #mealprepideas
Easy Cheesy Sloppy Joe Sliders are a great way to change things up at dinner time. I suspect they are also a good option for all of the upcoming Superbowl snacking! This dish comes together rather quickly. You can also make them ahead of time and pop them in the oven later in the day. The melted garlic rosemary butter brushed over top of the buns, really sends it over the top! 1 tbsp olive oil 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots 1/4 cup diced yellow or white onion 1lb ground beef salt pepper smoked paprika 3/4 cup ketchup 2 tsp dijon mustard 1 tsp worcestershire sauce 1/2 tablespoon light brown sugar package of hawaiian style dinner rolls 1 cup shredded cheese of choice, divided 2 tbsp unsalted butter 1 tsp chopped garlic 1/2 tsp dried rosemary Preheat oven to 350 degrees, In a saucepan over medium heat, Add the olive oil to the pan over medium heat, then add the onion & garlic & saute for 2 minutes. Add the ground beef & sprinkle with salt & pepper. Using a spoon, break up the meat and stir until browned, about 7-10 minutes. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, mustard,and Worcestershire. Pour over the meat and stir to combine. Sprinkle the brown sugar over top.Let it simmer together for 5 minutes. Turn off heat. Cut the dinner rolls in half and place the bottom half in a buttered baking dish. Top with meat and sprinkle with cheese. Place the top of the rolls back on top. Brush the rolls with melted garlic butter (ingredients above) Bake for 15 minutes, or until rolls are toasted and cheese is melted. Cut into individual sliders.
This is my favorite quick steak marinade these days. I love using skirt steak because it soaks up marinades well and cooks up quick ! I use brown sugar in my marinade and helps give the steak a little caramelized action on the outside when it hits the cast iron pan. I sliced up some gorgeous tomatoes and sone yellow onion, reminiscent of Peter Lugers Steakhouse, making myself feel special, haha! The leftovers will probably get turned into a steak sandwich for @bgonsar, for me I’ll do steak and egg whites! Marinade: 1/4 cup light brown sugar 3 garlic cloves, chopped 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika 1/2 tsp kosher salt 1/2 tsp black pepper 1/3 cup olive oil 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar Juice of a half of a lime #steakdinner #easydinner #easycooking #easyrecepies #quickdinners #steaksalad #marinade
Tzatziki inspired Avocado Dip is what getting me through most days ! I may be on super crazy restricted diet ahead of treatment but it’s not stopping me from finding new ways to enjoy food. Plus maybe breaking some bad habits. Is overwhelming at times or a bit exhausting? Yes, because I’m trying to balance cooking for Brian and Siena as well. This isn’t about being gluten free or dairy free, fyi. It goes beyond that, but I’m not getting into it, watch my stories! However, I am learning there are some things maybe I should make from scratch more often, instead of opting for convenience. This would help cut out even more chemicals and sodium. Maybe I do mindlessly eat more than I realize. But I’ll never permanently give up fresh mozzarella or some creamer in my coffee, sorry! Oh, and I still miss Tzatziki! Tzatziki Inspired Avocado Dip 1 whole avocado, mashed 2 tbsp olive oil 1 garlic clove, finely chopped Juice of half of a lemon 🍋 1 tbsp dill , chopped 1/2 tsp kosher salt 1/4 tsp pepper #easyrecipeideas #avocadorecipes #quickdip #easyappetizers
You know what time of year it is !!! Make sure you buy 12 packs of bacon because it’s never enough. The simplest thing but everyone fights over it . Siena actually told me she was looking forward to candied bacon out of the blue , it makes a lasting impression! #brunchrecipes #brunchideas #candiedbacon #christmasmorning #easyrecipes
There are many reasons why this season can be as overwhelming as it is magical. Recently, I noticed how much I look forward to those little peppermint candies in my coffee. Thinking about how I will be sad when they are no more. I love seeing my grandmother’s old ornaments around, using the familiar Christmas China for my daily coffee. And I actually think I prefer seeing the Christmas tree lit up in the early morning hours. I am starting to see focusing on these small things add up and help create contentment. Instead of ruminating on how my decorations still don’t look like the instagram reel I saw. I never found the perfect Christmas dress. I haven’t made it out to chic Christmas parties or dinners. Yes, all theses things are “trival” and “could be worse.” But maybe you are feeling restless too for whatever reason. Or noticing that you seem to be frustrated a little bit more than normal this season. I think that is because we are all consuming a little bit more than usual. Mixed with the feelings of falling short that happen during a busy season. Makes the perfect storm that leads to an overflow of feelings. What are the small smiles that are surprising you this season? #christmasdecor #encouragingwords #christmastree #smallmoments #calmingvibes
Throw back to when I was led on a crazy food styling shopping spree fueled by @anthonyissaucy. He can rip through a crate and barrel mercilessly, all while picking out the the most beautiful pieces from an antique store , complete with stepping on a grandma to get it. I’m so close to getting this 2nd draft finished! On one hand I finished this first draft in record time, however 2025 seems so far way! But I feel like once this draft is done, I will be to spend more time filing in the kitchen again. I have so much to share! However, today I hit my limit , haha. I’m flat out to tired to post the short ribs or the yogurt dip. At one time this would have really upset me. I’m am glad I’m not in that space anymore. Because I need to rest when I need to rest, and that is real. You guys will be there tomorrow and I love you for it 💕
Here comes that winter gray that I dread. Citrus becomes my sunshine! And I love blood oranges, especially when pairs with earthy sliced beets and goat cheese! Full recipe : https://www.dishitgirl.com/recipes/blood-orange-shaved-beets-goat-cheese-salad Also posted on my stories! #winterrecipes #orangesalad #citrusrecipes #easyrecipe #saladrecipe
I reworked my chickpea fritter recipe to be compatible with the low iodine/sodium diet I am following for treatment purposes. Also taking out the cheese (bc no dairy) and using an egg white to bind. I added in lemon juice and lemon zest, and ate these on repeat with spicy marinara sauce! The official recipe will be in my cookbook but this one is just as tasty for now ! 😉 1 (15-ounce) can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed 3 cloves garlic, rough chopped ⅓ cup fresh parsley leaves (if you do not have fresh then use 1 tbsp dried… or you could use fresh Basil!) 1 teaspoon lemon zest 3 tablespoons lemon juice Kosher salt Ground black pepper 1 large egg white 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour Extra-virgin olive oil, for pan frying 1. In a food processor, pulse the chickpeas, garlic, parsley, lemon zest , lemon juice, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper until combined, but still chunky. (Do not puree.) 2. Transfer the chickpea mixture to a large bowl. 3. Add the egg white and flour and stir to combine. 4. Using your hands, shape the mixture into 8 patties. 5. In a large nonstick skillet, warm ⅛-inch of olive oil over medium-high heat. 6. Cook the patties in batches until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side; transfer to a paper towel-lined plate #easyrecipes #chickpeafritters #lowsodium #healthyrecipes
This week the temperatures are dropping so I am heating up all my soup recipes! I recently updated my Loaded Baked Sweet Potato Soup. The ingredients and recipe are below, and also on www.dishitgirl.com 4 large sweet potatoes, skin removed and cut into cubes 4-5 slices of thick cut bacon (I used applewood smoked) 1/2 cup carrots, chopped 1/2 cup leeks, sliced (cleaned and trimmed) 1/4 cup white onion, chopped 1/4 cup sherry 4 cups chicken broth 1 tsp chipotle hot sauce 2 tsp maple syrup 1 cup buttermilk salt pepper instructions In a large skillet, sauté the bacon on medium heat until crisp and the fat has been rendered, about 5 minutes. Remove bacon from skillet and place on paper-towel-lined plate. Pour 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease into a large pot, or dutch oven, reserving the rest for another use. Heat the bacon grease, and add the carrots, leeks, and white onion. Saute until the vegetables become soft, about 7 minutes. Add in sweet potatoes, stirring gently, letting them saute for about 3 minutes. Add the sherry to the pot and scrape up any brown bits. Let simmer for 3 minutes. Add 4 cups of chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Let sweet potatoes boil until soft. This can take upwards of 30 minutes. Turn off the heat and cool the soup. Then be very careful adding it into a blender and puree. (You may have to do this in batches. Alternatively, you can use a stick blender in the pot). Return to the pot and add in the buttermilk, season with salt, and pepper. Then stir to incorporate. Warm the soup on a medium heat. Garnish with chopped up bacon when serving. You may even use grated guyere or cheddar cheese. #souprecipe #easydinner #dishitgirl
This is when I get invested in football. The last couple of playoff games. And whenever the emphasis is on food of course! I have put out so many great recipes for occasions such as this over the past 9 years!!! One of my favorites being my cheesy bread , which recently got an update from @traderjoes Pickled Jalapeños! Make sure to look through past reels or head to DishItgirl.com. I will link some in my stories throughout the day. Thank you for hanging in there with me as I have taken the time to kick thyroid cancer to the curb and finishing up my cookbook coming soon, ahh! Looking forward to getting stronger again 💕 DIG Recipes to search: Teriyaki Chicken Inspired Dip Crab Guacamole Apple Cheddar Quesadillas Cheesy Bread Disco Fries Fried Mozzarella Balls Shrimp Scampi Dip Sheet Pan Sausage and Peppers Just to name a few 🤪🥳 #gamedayfood #diprecipes #easyappetizers #easyrecipeideas #foodforaparty
Cinnamon simple syrup! Instead of making you dig for this recipe to make the batch cocktail from my previous reel, I figured well, it’s Christmas! I also love using the syrup in my coffee or hot chocolate. Works well in oatmeal, and with berries ! It’s such a nice treat to have on hand during the holiday week ! 1 cup water 1 cup granulated sugar 4 cinnamon sticks Place all ingredients in a small saucepan, bring to a boil, stir gently until sugar dissolves. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes more once sugar dissolves. Turn off heat, let syrup cool for about 1 hour. Then transfer to a clean glass container. Keep in the fridge for up to two weeks. #easyrecepies #diyideas #homemade #simplesyrup #holidayrecipes
Budget friendly party alert! Have a Frosty the Snowman hot chocolate party ! This movie is such a classic and this is an easy way to celebrate the season. I found all the cute cups, and treat holders on @orientaltrading . Grabbed some snow and slime and cute hot chocolate bombs. I filmed a segment with recipes and all for the @christmasflix Christmas-thon, I will let you know the airdate soon! For now enjoy some fun tips 👇 – Serve birthday cake or store bought cupcakes, Frosty always likes to say: “ happy birthday “ when he comes to life! – Not into hot chocolate? Serve snowball smoothies! Recipe coming next week! – Drizzle white chocolate on top of popped popcorn and add Christmas sprinkles! #diyholiday #frostythesnowman #budgetfriendly #budgetfriendlyholiday #hotchocolatebar #easyparty #kidsholiday
Meet some of the guests of the 2023 Christmas Thon available to watch starting tonight December 15th on @onnewjersey and ChristmasFlix (Roku, FireTV or website). 🌟The Allen Family (Tim Allen, wife Jane Hajduk and their daughter Elizabeth Allen-Dick (starring in the new series “The Santa Clauses” as Sandra Claus (Santa’s daughter) on Disney ) shares a special behind the scenes segment. 🌟 Kelsey Grammer shares his favorite Christmas traditions 🌟Dina Deleasa Gonsar joins again as one of our hosts and prepares a special treat with her daughter 🌟Leigh Ann Chatagnier personality behind the blog @mydiaryofus 🌟Dawn Del Russo @dawndelrusso shares a few fashion tips 🌟Leslie Marchio @fourpeasandadog cookie artist shares a fun idea #christmas #givingback #nonprofit #cookies #baking #fashion #christmastraditions #food #christmasdyi #santaclaus #christmasmusic #fraser #timallen #christmasflix #onnj
What was for dinner? These lamb meatballs that baked in 15 minutes! While they were in the oven I made a yogurt sauce and chopped up some pitted greek olives. This made for the most delicious bed for the meatballs to sit on top of! What makes it even better is smashing them up and mixing it all together! Not into lamb? Well, first of all make sure you try it before you decide! But this mixture would work well with ground chicken or turkey! Sprinkle some feta cheese and extra herbs over the top of your plate to finish! Kids plate: I knew Siena would give me a hard time about the meatballs. But she likes cucumbers! So I sliced up cucumbers and gave her olives. I made chicken sausage for her and added the meatball to her plate as a try me bite. I also gave her the option of dipping into the yogurt sauce. 1lb ground lamb 1 egg 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs chopped fresh parsley chopped fresh dill 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped 1 tbsp finely chopped shallots 1 tsp za’atar seasoning 1 tsp kosher salt 1/2 tsp black pepper Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine all ingredients in a bowl, I use my hands! Mix until well combined and uniform. Form the meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the top of the meatballs on the baking sheet. Then place in the oven for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, switch the oven to broil, let the meatballs broil on the middle rack for about 3 minutes. Make sure you do not step away! #whatsfordinner #easyrecipe #20minutemeal #lambmeatballs #greekinspired
