Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chocolate Chip Cookies...a staple recipe in every household. Always made a little different, but every bit as good. But, these chocolate chip cookies...are everything. They are fluffy, not overly sweet and melt in your mouth. 

Who doesn't love eating chocolate chip cookies with extra chocolate chips on top, warm in the middle, straight out of the oven but still a little crispy on the outside? These chocolate chip cookies are dairy free and are free from white flour or refined sugars and have the perfect hint of cinnamon. I found them from Chelsea's Messy Apron and love how light they are and tad healthier than most chocolate chip cookies! 

These cookies are different, because instead of using white or whole wheat flour, whole rolled oats are used and processed into a flour with a food processor or blender. Also, these have dark chocolate chips which have GREAT antioxidants and personally I used dairy free chocolate chips. The last healthy ingredient is the coconut oil used in this recipe. It is better nutritionally than butter and also is a healthier source of fat. 

Lastly -- SEA SALT. Yes, please. After the cookies finished baking, I pulled them out of the oven and sprinkled some sea salt on top. This brings out the flavors of the cookies immensely and is the perfect combination with the dark chocolate of salty and sweet mixed together. 

Note: You can find this recipe and directions on Chelsea's Messy Apron's website or use below

Ingredients: 

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 4 tablespoons dark brown sugar, lightly packed
• 1/2 cup coconut oil
• 1 and 1/2 cups oat flour (regular oats blended)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
• Optional: coarse sea salt 

Directions: 

• Use old fashioned oats or quick oats and blend them until they resemble a flour or powder in a blender or food processor.
• Combine the vanilla extract, large egg, and brown sugar in a bowl. Melt the coconut oil and let it cool slightly before adding to the bowl. Beat everything together until just combined.
• Stir in the oat flour (measured after blending NOT before), baking soda, cinnamon (scale this amount to taste preferences), and salt.
• Stir until just combined and then fold in the dark chocolate chips.
• Chill the dough for at least one hour.
• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
• Using a cookie scoop (and pack these in the scoop very tightly or they may crumble), scoop out balls of the dough onto a parchment lined cookie sheet. Press a few more chocolate chips in the tops if desired.
• Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned around the edges.
• Remove and allow to stay on the baking sheet for another 2 minutes before removing to a wire cooling rack

Scrambled Egg Avocado Toast + Mozzarella

Summer, please slow down!!! Can you believe it is already the first of August? I don't know whether I have been doing too much or if Summer is just flying by per usual! Due to the craziness of summer and everyone's jam packed schedules, this week of Motivation Monday recipes is totally geared towards being quick, easy and on-the-go! 

Because I have been incredibly busy these past few weeks and with the school semester ramping up and coming to a close, I need something that is nutritious and can be made in under 10 minutes! Thats why I chose to make the most incredible combination of everyone's favorite avocado toast and breakfast!  Who doesn't love scrambled eggs, avocado and toast? Put all of those ingredients together + a creamy mozzarella to top it off and you're in heaven! This will be the perfect thing for the morning before work when you're rushing out the door or for a mid day snack! 

This is one of my favorite snacks to eat and it has almost everything from each food group, and is packed with protein from the egg whites! I can't wait for you all to make this creation and don't forget to share with me! I love seeing all of your creations! Follow and tag me on Instagram and follow on Snapchat (OliviaJoan21) to watch my Motivation Mondays live! 

Ingredients: 

Whole wheat toast
2 egg whites
1 avocado
3 small tomatoes
Mozzarella
Salt & pepper to taste

Directions: 

1. Toast the pieces of bread in the toaster
2. While the bread is being toasted, scramble the eggs whites in some EVOO and add some salt & pepper to season
3. Cut the avocado in half as well as cut the tomatoes into little pieces as well
4. Remove the avocado from its peel and add to the toast, press with the back of a spoon or knife to spread around
5. Add the egg whites on top of the avocado spread, along with the tomatoes
6. Pull apart the mozzarella with your fingers and place it on top of the eggs and tomatoes
7. Season again to your liking with salt & pepper
 

Favorite Summer Beauty Product Must-Haves

If you don't already know, my obsession for beauty & makeup is getting somewhat out of control. With having requests from all my friends to do their makeup, continuously stopping at the mall, drug stores and Sephora, I am always on the look for new beauty products to test on myself and share with you all! And with all of the searching I've been doing this summer, I have come across some of my favorites finds for being out in the heat, sun, at the beach and to also give you that perfect summery glow. Just to note, many of these products are fitted for my skin tone, which has more of olive skin tone with a bit of a yellow undertone, so make sure to properly test them to match your skin color before purchasing! Here's the list of my favorite summer products that I think every woman should own! 

Hourglass Brozer - This two-toned bronzer is honestly my newest makeup obsession. This illuminating bronzer looks so natural and gives you that perfect summer glow also while giving you some dimension on your cheeks, jaw line and forehead. I use the Luminous Bronze Light, which is the lightest of the three pallets. I suggest anyone of my skin tone or lighter, or of an olive complexion purchase this as it is already pretty dark. 

NARS Light Reflecting Pressed Setting Powder - This is one of the best purchases I have made all summer. As I am quite active on a daily basis, my makeup tends to come off throughout the day and when using this setting powder, specifically used under my eyes, it helps to give me that perfect illuminating glow and keep my under eye makeup on all day. 

It Cosmetics CC Cream with SPF 50+ - Go buy this right now, this is not a joke. I have finally found one of my favorite color correcting and coverage products. It literally has everything a girl could want. It protects your skin from the harmful rays of the sun, and is clinically proven to improve skin texture and provide hydration, so it is the perfect thing to wear during the summer. Also, I typically have sensitive skin and can't wear many products that cover my skin, but this CC cream is so lightweight and has a rejuivating skin serum in it, it honestly feels like you've moisturized with lotion. 

Perricone MD No Bronzer Bronzer - This is a product that I was unfamiliar with or hadn't used before. Its a liquid bronzer, which may seem scary to use, but honestly its one of the best products I have tried and is incredibly easy to use. It is perfect for contouring and to give you that depth and warmth on your skin. Squeeze a few drops on the back of your hand and apply on the top of your forehead and cheek bones with a bronzer brush. (I then go over this bronzer with my Hourglass bronzer). This is also perfect for the summer because it has SPF 30 in it. Winning! 

Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick- Ok, this product isn't actually one of my newer obsessions, because I have been using it for a while now. But, that doesn't mean it isn't still one of my favorites! I love this foundation stick so much. Honestly, if I had to choose one product to carry around with me, this would be it! It is such a great quality product and is perfect for hiding any blemishes, red spots or under eye darkness. Use this with a flat head brush to blend in and you're set! I use this primarily around my nose, since I have redness there and under my eyes, to give myself more of an "awake" look and brighten up my face. I use this in Warm Beige. 

Maybelline Concealer Stick - This concealer stick by Maybelline is awesome. It is super lightweight on your skin and really takes care of those under eye circles and darkness. I love using this, because it really brightens up my look and gives me the appearance of looking more awake. This was a drugstore purchase and can easily be found at any Walgreens, CVS or Target. For myself, I use the Sand Sable color. 

Milani Powder Blush - This peachy pink blush is my new blush obsession! Up until now, I had been using a slightly darker more burgundy color blush. I am bummed that I didn't find this sooner, because it is the perfect color for summer. I am using the color, Luminoso. With a slight gold tint, it gives you the perfect glow and brightens up your cheeks just the perfect amount. It also pairs beautifully with the Hourglass bronzer as well! Also, this color definitely does depend on the color of your own skin and what works well with you. This is a personal preference for my skin tone in the summer when I am a bit darker, as it is the perfect thing to give me some bright color. 

Lancome Silky Cream Highlighter - This creamy highlighter just came out on the market recently and I am loving it. Lancome has made a seriously excellent highlighter cream that will brighten up your look and last all day. Since it is of a creamy consistency, it stays on your skin very well. It comes in a variety of colors, and I use Buff Lights - Champagne Gold. Again, this is my preference, because I really like a visible highlighter, so I chose the lightest one available in this collection. 

Becca Backlight Primer - Lastly, this Becca Backlight Primer is amazing!! I have just recently started to use a primer before doing my makeup, but I am really loving it. Again, this is super lightweight and is the perfect base before putting on your concealer. It give you a radiant glow since it has illuminating aspects to it and acts as a filter for your makeup. This is definitely just an optional step for doing your face makeup, but I love the way it ends up looking! 

Well, thats it for my summer fav beauty products! I can't wait to hear what you all think & let me know your favorites. Also, let me know what else you would like to see me feature, so comment below or on my Instagram (oliviasobjectsofobsession)! Also, follow along with me on snapchat (OliviaJoan21) as well to see my daily makeup routines as well as some glamour makeup routines for the evening! 

Rainbow Spring Rolls

Hello Monday! Today is going to be a great day, because we are making Rainbow Spring Rolls. These spring rolls are colorful, sweet, fresh and the perfect thing to snack on at work or for lunch! These are one of my favorite things to make, because they are so versatile. You really can add any ingredients you want to your liking, its kinda like an "everything but the kitchen sink" type of meal. Also, if you need a boost of energy and something to subside your sweet craving, these are loaded with fresh veggies and sweet fruits! I like to fill them with some fruit, such as mango, pineapple or pomegranate for that perfect crunch, avocado, cucumber and red onion!

Get ready for a burst of flavor and the taste of summer in your mouth! Lastly, you can use any dipping sauce with these as well, such as a peanut sauce or plum sauce. 

Ingredients

Rice paper
cucumber
Red cabbage
Mango
Pomegranate seeds
Avocado
Cilantro
Red Onion
Romain lettuce 

Directions

1. Cut all of the fruits and veggies into long thin strips about 5-6 cm long
2. Soak the rice paper in warm water until it becomes soft
3. Place rice paper on a cutting board or plate and layer the lettuce with the ingredients inside
4. Roll the rice paper within the ingredients inside like a burrito to ensure everything is tightly wrapped. 
5. Cut them in half and serve with dipping sauce
 

Blackened Fish Tacos + Avocado, Cilantro, Lime Sauce

Hi guys!! 

Summer is officially in full swing here in Minnesota. Hot, humid weather, thunderstorms and beautifully sunny days for cookouts and dinner with friends outside, it doesn't get any better...and I have the perfect recipe that is so light, fresh and refreshing for a summer meal. Last night I made the most delicious Blackened Fish Tacos with a cabbage, mango slaw on top. Oh, but it doesn't stop there, these fish tacos are topped with a avocado, cilantro and lime sauce to give it that perfect bite and creaminess. I found the recipe from Host the Toast, so check it out for more details! 

So I had a few of my besties over last night for a girl's dinner date night and the fish tacos were a hit. I started off by marinading four pieces of Tilapia in cayenne pepper, cumin, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder and salt and pepper. I then pan fried them in oil (your choice) for at least 4-5 minutes on each side. 

While those were cooking, I chopped up some red cabbage, green cabbage, jalepeño and mango to make the cabbage slaw and dressed it with the juice of one lime. Finally to make the sauce to go on top, I added avocado, cilantro, greek yogurt and lime and combined them in a food processor until it was really creamy. 

These tacos are literally the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, creamy and crunchy from the blackened fish. I am obsessed with them and you need to try them this summer! If you do, make sure to take a picture, post it and tag me on Instagram at Oliviasobjectsofobsession!

Ingredients:

Fish: 
tsp of cayenne pepper
1 tsp of paprika
1 tsp of garlic powder
1 tsp of onion powder
1 tsp of cumin
pinch of salt and pepper

Slaw: 

1/2 head of red cabbage
1/4 head of green cabbage
1/2 jalepeno
1 mango

Sauce: 

1 avocado
1 lime
handful of cilantro
1/2 cup of greek yogurt
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions: 

1. Marinade the fish
2. Cook fish for 4-5 minutes on each side in a frying pan (depending on how blackened you like)
3. Chop cabbage, jalepeno and mango and combine together with juice of one lime
4. For the sauce, add avocado, cilantro, lime and greek yogurt to food processor
5. Process for 1 minute or until no chunks
6. Layer all of the ingredients within a soft or hardshell taco! 

Enjoy!! 

Naked Ninas Smoothie & Juice Café

With garden walls, acai bowls and kombucha on tap, Naked Ninas is the trendiest spot in St. Paul and has everything one could want. Opened in January 2016 by June Berkowitz, this progressive and trendy café, organic smoothie and juice bar brings a little piece and feel of the California lifestyle to Minnesota. The owner June, has a passion for all things California and her goal was to bring some of that sunshine here to St. Paul.

Located in the Cathedral Hill area in St. Paul, Naked Ninas introduces powerful, healthy eating all while keeping a good balance in mind.  With more than 10 different kinds of smoothies and juices available to drink, plus homemade acai bowls, raw salads and granola bars, you will be in “superfood” heaven!

The few times I visited Naked Ninas, I was not only greeted with a friendly, smiling face and bubbly personalities from all of the employees, but an adorable well set up sitting area inside and out. The trattoria like seating outside brings me back to my times overseas and with large glass windows lining the front of the store and a cozy seating area inside, to relax, drink and converse with others, Naked Ninas café will keep you coming back with all of your friends.

Make sure to come check them out & quick, because I am sure they will soon be overly crowded every day with visitors just as obsessed as myself.  

Red, White & Blue Pretzel Rods

Happy Fourth of July weekend!!! 

I can't contain my excitement today, because not only are we celebrating this amazing holiday, but I am also making the cutest/most adorable red, white and blue pretzel rods that are going to be the show-stopper of the party!!! 

They are honestly the easiest thing to make and taste delicious. They combine the best of both worlds, salty & sweet!! This baking chocolate can be found in a few different places, such as Michaels or Walmart, but I actually picked them up at Party City. 

Heres what you need to do: melt the baking chocolate, white first and roll the pretzels in it. Place them on some parchment paper and let dry for about 5 minutes. Then melt the blue chocolate and layer this chocolate over the white. Finally, put some of the red chocolate into a plastic ziploc bag and cut the corner to lightly drizzle over the hardened white chocolate. And...thats it, you're done!! If you want to make these pretzels look extra cute, tie a white ribbon around a mason jar into a bow & stick the pretzels in! 

I can't wait for all of you guys to try these out!! Make sure to take a picture and tag me on Instagram. I know you all will make the cutest creations!! Make sure to follow me on snap to watch live as well (OliviaJoan21). 

Berry Tart + Coconut Whip Cream (Vegan + GF)

Week 9!! Another Motivation Monday recipe is in the books and this one may be hands down the yummiest recipe I've made to date and with the Fourth of July coming up, it will be the prettiest and most healthy dessert at the party! I found this recipe from Erin Ireland's site, To Die For. She is a fabulous food blogger out of Vancouver, Canada who mainly focuses on eating and making vegan recipes! Check out her version of the recipe here for more details! 

So with a fridge full of berries from the farmers market and an urge to make the perfect thing for the Fourth of July, I knew I needed to make this berry tart. Being both vegan and gluten-free, this dessert is perfect for almost anyone and also slightly healthier than your average dessert! 

I just can't handle how beautiful this red, white and blue berry tart is!! I am so glad that you are deciding to make it and try it out yourself. When do you, don't forget to snap a pic and put it on Instagram and tag me so I can see your beautiful creation!! 

Ingredients

For the crust

2 c. almonds
1.5 c. dates
1/2 tsp Himalayan salt

For the filling

1/4 c. + 2 tbsp creamy nut butter of your choice
1/4 c. + 2 tbsp coconut oil (melted)
1/4 c. maple syrup
1/2 tsp Himalayan salt
1 can coconut cream (chilled in fridge overnight) (Whip separately) 
Lots of berries! (around 2-3 cups)

Directions

1. Prepare your 8-9″ tart dish: rub with coconut oil and cut-out a circular piece of parchment paper to lay on the base. Next, cut three long, 3″-thick strips of parchment — lay these in your tart dish before you add the crust. They will act as ‘easy removal levers’ when your tart’s all done.
2. In a food processor, grind almonds into a flour (if you prefer little chunks in your crust, you don’t have to grind so fine). Now, add your dates and salt until a dough ball forms. (continue adding dates until ball forms, this may take more than required dates needed)
3. Using your hands, press dough into your tart dish to form your crust. When done, place in freezer to chill while you work on the filling.
4. Add nut butter, coconut oil, maple syrup and salt to your blender and puree until smooth (if you don’t have a blender, this step can be done by hand using a whisk or maybe even a fork).
5. Remove tart from freezer and pour in almond butter mixture. Spread it around so the entire tart base is covered. Place this in the fridge.
6. Remove coconut cream can from fridge, flip upside down and open. Remove watery portion and scoop hardened cream into the bowl of your mixmaster. Whip until light and fluffy (about 1-2 minutes). You can add sweeter, if needed. 
7. Remove tart from fridge and dump on your coconut whip. Using a spatula, spread it out into one even layer. Next, add berries. 
8. Enjoy!

Healthy Potato & Dill Salad

Hey guys!! Happy Motivation Monday & first official day of Summer!! For this week's recipe, I decided to make the perfect dish for summer cookouts, holidays, and picnics outdoors...it is a healthy potato and dill salad that I found from the blog Table for Two! 

When you think of summer and getting together with your family, don't you think of all the many amazing dishes everyone brings, and of course, there is always potato salad!! That's why this potato salad I've made today will be the perfect healthy alternative for your summer get togethers and you won't need to worry about all of the extra calories...and with the Fourth of July right around the corner, this is one of the easiest things to whip up! 

So the major difference in this potato salad, is that I used non-fat greek yogurt instead of sour cream. It tastes pretty much exactly the same, plus I've added two different types of mustard to give it a bit more flavor! Its actually amazing and I am obsessed with it! 

Look at how incredible this potato salad looks and the bits of green onion and dill spread throughout the salad gives it that extra punch of flavor! After a long weekend, this is the perfect dish to make, set aside and eat throughout the week and it will last for a solid 4-5 days! So don't waste any time and get into the kitchen to make this...or bring it to your Fourth of July celebrations! I am sure everyone will love it! 

Mexican Corn & Quinoa Salad

Happy Motivation Monday Week 7!!! I can't believe we are already on week 7. I have been having so much fun sharing so many healthy and amazing recipes with you all and this week's is amazing!! Its the perfect combination of sweet, creamy and spicy. Its a Mexican Corn & Quinoa Salad from my favorite website ever, What's Gaby Cooking. 

This is the most perfect Motivation Monday recipe, because it literally uses under ten ingredients and most of these ingredients you probably would already have in your kitchen! Also, this salad, not only is reminiscent of amazing Mexican corn on the cob, which is MY FAV, but it also substitutes avocado for the dressing, which makes it pretty much the hardest thing to stop eating! I can't wait to bring it to barbecues and parties this summer & so should you! 

Prep Time: 15 Minutes
Total Time: 30 Minutes

Ingredients: 

1 cup quinoa
3 cups of corn (3-4 ears)
1 jalapeño
2 green onions
1 lime, juiced
2 Tbps Cotija cheese
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese  
salt & pepper to taste

Directions: 

Add the quinoa & corn to a large mixing bowl. Chop up the green onions, jalapeño and cilantro and add that to the corn and quinoa. Then, remove the skins of the avocado, add to a food processor or blender along with the juice of the lime. Add water if needed. Then add pureed mixture to the large mixing bowl and toss until combined thoroughly. Top with Cotija and Monterey jack cheese as well as salt and pepper to taste! 

Strawberry Basil Lemonade

Ok, so I am came across this incredible Strawberry Basil Lemonade recipe from What's Gaby Cooking and I needed to make it. Its pretty much everything I love in one glass. Strawberries, lemonade, basil & a little sweet!! Since I pretty much have the biggest sweet tooth ever. Also, its the perfect combination of homemade lemonade and fresh fruit puree. 

This drink can be even better, because its perfect with a little vodka or gin, too! Depending on what event I'm going to or who's drinking with me, I will add either sparkling water or gin or vodka. Its perfect both ways! 

Anyway, this is my new favorite drink and I am pretty much obsessed, so you should be too! Oh, and you should grab some lemons and strawberries and make this over the weekend! 

Prep Time: 10 Minutes
Total Time: 20 Minutes

Ingredients:

8-10 Strawberries tops removed
8 Lemons- Juiced
4 Cups of Water (Still or Sparkling)
3/4 cup sugar
1/3 fresh basil

Directions: 

First juice the lemons and add to the pitcher. Add the water and the sugar to the lemon juice mixture and stir until dissolved. With an immersion blender, blend the strawberries and basil for 10 seconds or until completely pureed. If you don't have an immersion blender, use a food processor or blender and add separately to the mixture. Stir and serve over ice! 

MODERN ROOTS

Being from northeast Minnesota, I grew up going into to Stillwater, Minnesota every summer to enjoy the idyllic views of the St. Croix river and the quaint stores lining up and down Main Street, such as antique stores, candy stores, malt shops and cafes. It is one of the cutest places to visit in during our amazing Minnesota summers, and now it has got even better. A holistic, organically made from all natural ingredients, beauty and bath product store, named MODERNROOTS, just opened its second location in Stillwater. MODERNROOTS develops product that is free of parabens, phthalates, soy and corn. They also don't use artificial preservatives including formaldehyde, MSG, etc. This store is specifically perfect for anyone with skin ailments and disorders, while also making it affordable, fun and inviting.

MODERNROOTS is an incredible beauty + bath store that sells everything you can imagine from bath bombs, soaps, lip balm, shampoo & conditioner to necklaces with hardened and scented essential oils on the inside, and its all made right here in Minnesota by its owner, Meg. MODERN ROOTS original store is located Buffalo, MN and this is their second store in Stillwater.

So after walking around, smelling every soap bar in the store and testing out the lip balms and lotions, I knew that this place was going to be my newest obsession and place I would go, to buy all of my future beauty products. If you’re someone who tends to be interested in organic foods & ingredients and the health benefits of using a certain product, this will be the perfect store for you! 
 

It will be the perfect place for you to visit this summer when you are downtown Stillwater enjoying the beautiful weather, the St. Croix river and checking out all of the adorable shops! 

To look at all of MODERNROOTS products and learn more about their background, click here! I can't wait for all of you guys to visit and enjoy the amazing, organic products as much as I did!! 

Vegetable Hummus Wrap

Hey guys! Happy Monday & week 6 of Motivation Monday recipes! For today's recipe I decided to make a light, healthy and easy Vegetable Hummus Wrap! This recipe is seriously the perfect thing for summer and for lunches throughout the week! You can prepare multiple wraps ahead of time and store them in your fridge to eat later in the week! Oh, and the best part, is that the options are endless! 

For this recipe, I kept it to only veggies, because I wanted something a little lighter and healthier and also left out putting on any cheese as well, so these wraps are vegan and dairy free! Also, for this recipe, you are definitely able to use store-bought hummus, but I wanted to make my own, so if you're feeling like making your own homemade hummus, here is what you'll need: chickpeas, lemon, garlic gloves, salt & pepper, olive oil and some paprika to taste. Add all of the ingredients to a food processor and blend until really creamy and smooth! 

Then its time to build your wrap! First spread your hummus onto the whole wheat tortilla and add whatever vegetables you like! I added, tomatoes, cucumbers, avocado, zucchini, alfalfa sprouts (optional) & arugula or spinach! 

After you've added everything, roll up your vegetable wrap and you're done & ready to eat! Its literally that simple! 

This is such a great summer recipe and I can't wait for you all to try it out! Follow me on Instagram to get more inspiration and ideas & don't forget to tag me if you post a picture of your masterpiece! 

Happy a fantastic Monday and rest of your week! 

Total Time: 20 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

1-2 medium zucchini, cut lengthwise
1 medium red bell pepper
3 persian cucumbers
1 medium tomato
4 whole wheat tortillas
2 oz of spinach or arugula
1/2 cup red onion thinly sliced (optional) 
 

Hummus
1 can of chickpeas
1 lemon - juice of the whole lemon
1/2 cup of EVOO
1 garlic clove
S&P
Paprika to taste

Modist Brewery

Hi guys!! Happy first week of June!! I am so excited that it is summer and that the weather has been amazing, because summer means patio season!! 

 I had the most incredible day last week, shooting, getting information and scoping out the newest brewery, located in Minneapolis, for the next place that I feel is a MUST for you to check out when you’re visiting the North Loop in Minneapolis. I am pretty much obsessed with it, and since it is literally around the corner from my apartment, I have a feeling I may be frequenting it often this summer.

If you thought the North Loop in Minneapolis couldn’t get any better, with its accessible walking & biking trails, convenient location, located between downtown and the river and the many incredible restaurants and cafes, think again, because, the most incredible, trendy and innovative brewery just opened up just blocks from the light rail & the Twins Stadium. Modist Brewery is located on 3rd Street, right off of Washington Avenue in the North Loop. With its rustic and industrial exterior appearance, and large outdoor patio with hanger garage doors that open to the inside, it is sure to be the place to head to for any activity, especially before and after Twins games.

When entering the brewery, you walk into a large and open space, almost resembling a dining hall with its long “family-style” tables and high-top bar stools lining the bar. In the mood for more of a laid back and relaxing setting? The space also has a seating area filled with beautiful dark brown leather couches and chairs for more of an intimate setting to talk with friends and enjoy the incredible beer you are sipping. In addition to its creative and beautifully designed interior, Modist Brewery is one of a kind, with its unique varieties of brews and the machinery to make them. Specifically, the brewery houses two very unique machines called a hammermill, which can pulverize materials into a flour as well as mash filter, which makes beer out of any starchy material, even quinoa! Quinoa beer….sounds kind of healthy, right!?

Lastly, you must check out Modist Brewery, because the staff are some of the most welcoming and passionate individuals I’ve come across. After leaving their previous careers to pursue their love for entrepreneurship, brewing and beers, it is truly telling that this is what they were meant to do! Their innovative and creative ideas for all varieties of beers will be sure to make any customer happy and wanting more!  

Cheers to an amazing summer and exploring! I can't wait until you check out Modist Brewery & of course, let me know when you do by leaving me a comment or post a picture on Instagram and tag Modist Brewery and myself! 

photography by: @allegraroseb

Red, White & Blue Fruit Skewers

Hi guys!! Happy Memorial Day & Motivation Monday week 5!! 

I am so excited for a day of sun and boating on the lake...oh and grilling and snacking! And to go along with this wonderful day of remembrance, I made a very fitting red, white and blue dish to serve at any Memorial Day get together!  

These red, white and blue fruit skewers are the perfect thing for a hot day and they literally take 10 minutes to make!! 

So for the ingredients, you will need some strawberries, blueberries, and angel food cake for your skewers! For the dip, you will need cream cheese, non-fat greek yogurt, vanilla and sugar. Put all of the ingredients for the dip in a bowl and mix until smooth and creamy! 

Then alternate between the strawberries & angel food cake when putting them on the skewers and add the blueberries at the very end, to make it appear like an American flag! 

Look at how adorable this snack is after you're done skewering the ingredients!!! I can't wait until you try them out and serve them to all of your guests at your Memorial Day party!! I know this Motivation Monday post is short and sweet, but its just like the recipe, short and sweet and easy to make! 

Ingredients: 

1 package of strawberries
1/2 cup of blueberries
Angel food cake - cut into 1 inch cubes
1/2 package of cream cheese
1/4 cup of sugar
1 tsp of vanilla
1 cup of greek yogurt

 

Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad

Happy Monday!! We are still going strong & are on our Motivation Monday Week 5 post & recipe!! I just returned home from New York and am definitely needing something light, healthy & filling to eat throughout the week! 

I'm pretty much obsessed with watermelon & usually eat is all summer long & this watermelon, feta & arugula salad is the most delicious thing you will ever make! I know the flavor combination may sound odd, but there is a perfect hint of sweet, and zesty and the feta goes perfectly with the arugula and watermelon. Oh and its extremely light and refreshing as well as low in calories...bonus!! 

So what you'll need is arugula, feta cheese, blueberries (optional), watermelon, honey, salt, an orange, a lime and fresh mint leaves. First whisk together the juice of the orange, lime, honey and salt. You can also add a little olive oil to the dressing if you want to tone down the sweetness and zest of the other ingredients. Then cut the watermelon into pieces and add to the arugula and blueberries. Finally, sprinkle the feta cheese all over the salad to your desired amount. 

After you have combined all of the dry ingredients, drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly together. You will absolutely LOVE this salad. It is the perfect thing for a picnic, lunches or a BBQ. 

I can't wait for you to try it! Make sure to post a picture & tag me on Instagram or leave a comment below!  

Serves 2-3
 

Ingredients: 
1 orange
1 lime
2 Tbsp honey
1/4 cup feta
2 cups of watermelon
3 cups arugula
pinch of salt
1/4 cup of blueberries (optional) 
Handful of mint leaves

Packing Picks & Tips

Hi Guys!! So I leave for NY tomorrow and I am so excited! My boyfriend Paul and I are headed there for his birthday weekend & for a super fun getaway!

So, because its New York and one of the most fashionable cities in the world, it is so hard to not pack all of my cutest pieces! But, that wouldn’t really work if you’re just going for a quick getaway, over the weekend with a carry-on! So, I thought I would do a packing tips & picks post to share with you all. So, here are my tips and travel picks for my upcoming weekend! J

Its going to be Springtime in NY and the perfect time to show off your adorable spring dresses, lace & patterns! (Check out my Spring Picks & Pattern Play posts for ideas). So for my first tip, and for the short answer, try and bring as little as possible (because you’re going to want to go shopping) & items that can double for multiple occasions! If you need or forget something, its New York, go shopping!!

But, for the long answer of what you should pack, here are my suggestions:

1-    Dress or jumpsuit for going out

1-    Pair of jeans for both day & night

      a.     Night – throw on a pair of heels for the evening & you’ll be good to go!

1-    Jacket

1-    Pair of shorts or romper

1-    Pair of dress shoes

1-    Cute walking shoes – for all of your site seeing! J

2-    Sweater or shawls

3-    Cute tops that double for either day or night

Tips:

1.     Jewelry – roll up or fold in tissue paper or even a sock

2.     Delicates/lingerie – put in plastic bags & can use for dirty clothes as well

3.     Clothing – rolling vs. folding – rolling saves more space & no wrinkles

4.     Pack minimally & pack items that can double for multiple occasions

5.     Pack a scarf – it takes up literally zero room & will keep you warm & is a cute accent piece

I have been busy planning my outfits for each day that I am out in NY, so take a peek below to get some outfit combination ideas and inspiration for your next trip!

This first combination I put together is the perfect summer dress that still keeps you warm on that chilly Spring day! With the high neck and a jean jacket over it, you’ll be sure to stay warm! Accent this outfit with a long necklace & hat! The dress and necklace were both purchased at Francesca's and the purse and hat were purchased at Urban Outfitters. You can find the shoes at DSW. 

This second combination I put together encompasses more pattern & lace! This long maxi skirt and crop top goes perfect together with a loose shawl to throw on as well! Also, these colors are everything! The shawl and maxi shirt can be found at Francesca's and the top can be found at Forever 21. The shoes can be purchased at DSW and the necklace is from MODERNROOTS. 

The third outfit combo I put together was more of a casual look with jeans and a cute top! Throw on a pair of strappy flats or wedges and you have the perfect outfit to walk around town in! Accent this outfit with some dangly bracelets! You can find the bracelets at Alex & Ani. The top is from Forever 21, the jeans can be found at Gap! 

Lastly, I threw together one last outfit for the evening, when you’re going out to dinner, a play or a bar. This reddish-pink floral romper, along with a pair of nude pumps makes the outfit complete & is SO simple to put together.  The romper can be purchased at Banana Republic. 

I can’t wait to share more photos of my upcoming trip to New York with you this weekend, so follow along with me on my Instagram and Snapchat (OliviaJoan21)!! Oh and PLEASE leave me a comment below or suggestions you may have!

Peanut Butter Cup Energy Bites

Hey guys!! 

I am super incredibly excited, because toady I made the most delectable recipe that tastes JUST like a peanut butter cup...and its healthy!! These Peanut Butter Cup Energy Bites that I found on the Minimalist Baker's website are the perfect healthy snack to eat throughout your week and are packed with nutrients in a few small bites! 

Oh and you have no excuses to not be healthy & make these, because they only have 5 ingredients! You will need dried dates, or in my case I used dried figs, diary free chocolate chips, if you're paleo or have a diary allergy, whole rolled oats - gluten free, organic peanut butter, or any butter that you can find (almond butter, cashew butter, etc) and lastly chia seeds! 

Also, I am really into easy recipes lately as it is now summertime here in Minnesota and that means more time on-the-go doing activities and being outside and I love having healthy snacks on hand with me! 

So, what you'll need to do is, grab a cup full of dates/figs and add them to the food processor or blender. Blend until the fruit is chopped into pieces and start to stick together. Then add the rest of your ingredients of chocolate chips, peanut butter, oats and chia seeds to the food processor or blender and combine until all ingredients start to bind together. 

Then, reach down into the processor or blender, grab some batter and roll into portable little bites! You're going to love having these with you during the day...and so will your friends. They are the perfect thing to share! They are creamy, chewy, crunchy, wholesome and naturally sweetened! 

Recipe

Total Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup dates - pitted or apricots
3 Tbsp all natural peanut butter or almond butter
1/4 cup dairy free chocolate chips
1 Tbsp chia seeds (sub flax seeds)
2/3 gluten free rolled oats

Instructions

1. Pulse dates or apricots in food processor or blender until they're in small pieces or form a ball
2. Add oats, chocolate, chia seeds and peanut butter and pulse or mix until combined. You want there to be small pieces but not overly processed. 
3. Roll into 1-2-inch balls (should yield 10 balls) 
4. To set, put into freezer for 15 minutes! Will keep good for a week, or keep in fridge to stay longer! 

Tomato, Pesto, Burrata Flatbread

Who's ready for some pizza? You need to try the most amazing tomato, burrata & pesto pizza that I found on What's Gaby cooking!  Its kinda half flatbread, half pizza & I am pretty sure I could eat it every day for the rest of my life! Click here for the recipe & ingredients needed!

Don't get discouraged because this flatbread is homemade! Its the easiest thing ever, the whole wheat crust was purchased at Trader Joe's (duh) and then there are only 6 other ingredients needed: cherry tomatoes, burrata cheese, shallots, pine nuts, garlic cloves and basil leaves!  

Make SURE your dough is at room temperature before spreading it out. This way it won't snap back when trying to roll it out. After the dough is rolled thin, transfer for a baking sheet, which has been covered with some olive oil, so it won't stick, and bake in the oven at 350 for 8-10 minutes. 

While the crust in baking, slice the cherry tomatoes and chop the shallots and mix together with some olive oil. Then turn the oven to broil and throw the mixture into the oven to char for about 5-7 minutes! 

While the tomatoes are in the oven, throw together the garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, basil leaves and a little red wine vinaigrette in a food processor until smooth. Spread the pesto vinaigrette evenly on top of the crust along with the charred cherry tomatoes. Lastly, take your burrata and pull apart pieces with your fingers and lay them around the entire pizza. The warmth from the crust will melt the burrata cheese so nicely and beautifully, you won't be able to wait to dive it an try it! 

Happy eating & your welcome for this amazing new recipe to try out!! Leave a message or comment for any new ideas or suggestions you may have! 

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Happy Monday!! Can you believe its already week 3 of Motivation Monday recipes? I can't wait to share this latest recipe with you! Its the easiest thing to make & the perfect thing for lunches throughout the week and leftover dinners! Its, Chicken Tortilla Soup!! I found this recipe on the blog, What’s Gaby Cooking. She actually made this soup with Turkey, but it also works well with chicken! This blog is incredible and I am pretty much obsessed with it!!  

Who doesn't love Chicken Tortilla soup, with all the spices and toppings and avocado...who doesn't love avocado? Its only one of the most amazing ingredients ever!! So let’s get this week started off right and healthy!

First you’ll need 3-4 chicken breasts and bake them in the oven at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes then shred, or else you can easily use a rotisserie chicken as well. Roughly chop a whole white onion, 3-4 garlic cloves and one whole jalapeño (seeds removed). Sautee them in a large saucepan until ingredients are well cooked and until onions are translucent.  

Then add in 15 oz. can of fire roasted tomatoes with green chilies, and 3 cups of chicken stock. Bring ingredients to a boil and let simmer for 30 minutes. Using an immersion blender, regular blender, or food processor and puree until smooth. Finally, add in the shredded chicken, corn and black beans and bring to temperature.

I can’t wait for you all to try it out & don’t forget to top it off with a little lime juice, cilantro (optional) and some tortilla strips!! 

Ingredients:

2 teaspoons olive oil

1 onion, roughly chopped

3-4 cloves garlic, roughly chopped

1 jalapeño pepper, stem and seeds removed and roughly chopped

kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper

¼ teaspoon dried oregano

¼ teaspoon cumin

½ teaspoon ground chipotle pepper

1 14-ounce can fire roasted tomatoes and green chiles

3 cups chicken stock

15 oz. black beans, drained

1 cup frozen corn

2 cups Shredded Turkey (can use rotisserie chicken for shoot purposes)

Toppings:

Small wedge of cheese, freshly shredded

Limes

Avocado

Cilantro

Tortilla Strips