What plans do you have for this weekend? Tonight Freddie and I are attending a wedding, where we’ll be clapping, cheering, toasting, tearing up, and skipping the dance floor; and tomorrow the boys and I will be checking out block parties, which are arguably the highlight of fall in Brooklyn. Wishing you a fantastic weekend, and here are some interesting links from across the web…
My top 15 favorite items, plus a massive giveaway.
Travel dream: Scotland, wow.
Banana Republic is running a big sale. I have my eye on this dress, and are these the ideal black jeans?
Banana cake.
“After just 10 minutes at the open house, I feel ready to settle into this house for eternity,” haha. New York real estate was so wild for a time that Alex and I once made a rental offer on a place without even seeing it. And we still lost out on it.
Eight phrases to use during a disagreement with your partner. I would add “I get it” and “I cherish you.” (NYTimes gift link)
Ooh, what a stunning wedding dress neckline.
Can fashion writer Erika Veurink become the next Nancy Meyers? Adore this title! Erika crafted her romance novel with one guiding principle: “When Harry Met Sally…but envision if there was intimacy in the backseat of the car.” (Elle)
I also revisited my own professional interview with Elle and stand by it!
“Jimmy Kimmel, a well-known late-night host, was just taken off the air because the Trump administration disapproved of what he said — and coerced his employer until they silenced him.” Jon Stewart’s reply was spot-on.
Jane Austen’s 250th birthday bash is bring-your-own-bonnet. (NYTimes gift link)
This had me laughing a hundred times.
Additionally, here are three reader remarks:
Hilary comments on four enjoyable things: “We have always referred to our farewells in the Midwest as ‘the Lutheran Goodbye,’ meaning, we ought to start departing at least 30 minutes earlier than necessary due to all the complimenting, oh my goshing, yes let’s reconnect, send me that hot dish recipe-ing. In contrast, I admire a German Goodbye, executed flawlessly by our German friends which goes something like: ‘Thank you for having us. We had an acceptable time, but we’d rather be at our own home. Farewell.’ AND THEN THEY JUST WALK OUT THE DOOR. In truth, I aspire to that.”
Ness comments on a unique way to name a child: “My mom and her closest friend were both expecting daughters at the same time. They resolved to name us after each other as a tribute to their bond. I feel fortunate to carry a name rich in the magic of sisterhood.”
Suz remarks on five kitchen essentials you’d never want to be without: “Reading the comments, I’ve been trying to keep score on Team Olive Oil vs Team Butter. Sincerely, T.O.O.”
(Photo by Laura Austin/Stocksy.)
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**Savor a Delicious Weekend with Tasty Recipes**
Weekends are perfect for resting, relaxing, and engaging in some culinary innovation. Whether you’re throwing a party or just enjoying a laid-back weekend at home, exploring new recipes can bring an enjoyable twist to your days off. Here are a few delectable recipes to try this weekend that are sure to delight your taste buds and enhance your dining experience.
**1. Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa**
Launch your weekend with a flavor explosion by whipping up spicy shrimp tacos. The blend of juicy shrimp, zesty mango salsa, and creamy avocado will whisk you away to a tropical oasis.
*Ingredients:*
– 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Corn tortillas
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
– Juice of 1 lime
– Fresh cilantro, chopped
*Instructions:*
1. In a mixing bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook shrimp until they are pink and opaque.
3. For the mango salsa, mix mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro in a bowl.
4. Warm the tortillas, fill them with shrimp, and top with mango salsa.
**2. Creamy Mushroom Risotto**
For a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated, try crafting creamy mushroom risotto. This Italian staple is ideal for a cozy dinner and pairs fabulously with a glass of white wine.
*Ingredients:*
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Instructions:*
1. In a saucepan, heat the broth and keep it warm.
2. In another pan, melt the butter and sauté the onions and garlic until translucent.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until tender.
4. Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add wine and stir until fully absorbed.
6. Gradually pour in the broth, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly until absorbed.
7. When the rice reaches a creamy consistency and is tender, stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
**3. Chocolate Lava Cake**
Finish your weekend on a sweet note with indulgent chocolate lava cake. This dessert is a paradise for chocolate enthusiasts, featuring a gooey center that flows out when you cut into it.
*Ingredients:*
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup bittersweet chocolate chips
– 2 eggs
– 2 egg yolks
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tbsp flour
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
*Instructions:*
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease ramekins.
2. Melt butter and chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring until smooth.
3. In a different bowl, whisk together eggs, egg yolks, and sugar until thick.
4. Fold the melted chocolate, flour, vanilla, and salt into the mixture.
5. Pour the batter into the ramekins and bake for 12-14 minutes.
6. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
These recipes are sure to make your weekend meals unforgettable. Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, these dishes are easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Enjoy your culinary adventures this weekend!
