Kara's Kooking - Baked Parmesan Tomatoes

This recipe is a tomato lover's dream!  Growing up I hated tomatoes, which I think was based on my Dad's still present hatred of tomatoes, but now I absolutely love them and don't know how I lived without them.  This is a really simple recipe, and you could serve these as a side like I did, or you could have them as a snack.  

Ingredients:

4 tomatoes halved
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano or basil
1/4 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground pepper, to taste
4 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil

1. Preheat over to 425
2. Place tomatoes cut-side up on a baking sheet.  Top with Parmesan, oregano (I used basil), salt and peppter.  Drizzle with oil and bake until the cheese is golden, about 15 minutes.

Original recipe

Think Before You Speak

I recently saw a PSA with the NBA's Grant Hill and Jared Dudley raising awareness about the phrase "That's so gay." The PSA is part of Think B4 You Speak, a campaign that tries to get across the message that words have consequences.  Other celebrities lending their support are Hilary Duff and Wanda Sykes.  

About 3 years ago, I was with my friend and I used the phrase "That's so gay" to describe something that was dumb, when he looked at me and said "Excuse me?" This particular friend is gay, and I have never felt so terrible or embarrassed for being so insensitive. I obviously meant nothing by it, but it had become a habit. I can honestly say, since that moment, I have never used that phrase again. For gay, lesbian, transgender, and bisexual people, those 3 words are insulting and degrading.

I think Think B4 You Speak is a fantastic campaign because it raises awareness about the effects our words have on people. Like the website states:

"A lot of anti-LGBT language is said carelessly, and isn’t intended as negative or hurtful. Understand what you’re saying, and think about the potential consequences of the words you choose."

Kara's Kooking-Penne with Roasted Asparagus and Balsamic Butter

I absolutely love balsamic vinegar so when I came across this recipe I was thrilled. Although there are a few steps involved at one time, it was very easy, and very quick to make. I made it with whole wheat penne pasta, but next time I will try regular penne because the whole wheat flavor took away from the flavor of the balsamic. I would also like to try adding chicken to add some protein to the dish.

Follow this link for the recipe! Penne with Roasted Asparagus and Balsamic Butter

Coming later this week: I'll be posting a recipe for Baked Parmesan Tomatoes (as long as they're good)!

But first, coffee

I am by no means a morning person. I'll even warn you, don't try talking to me before I've had my coffee. However, once summer comes around, there are days that it is just way too hot to drink a hot cup of coffee. I came across this recipe for iced coffee and couldn't be happier. It's a bit time consuming, but totally worth it. Summer coffee conundrum solved!

Check out this recipe for the "Perfect Iced Coffee"

Fashion Friday-Stripes

Not long ago, stripes were a fashion faux-pas because people in the "fashion world" told us that they weren't flattering and they made people look wider than they actually were. Well, stripes are huge right now and I love them. And honestly, I'm one for throwing out fashion rules as long as you feel comfortable in it. I have one striped tank top that I lived in for months, and didn't care if it "made me look fat" because I loved it. If you're someone that does follow fashion rules, but wants to wear stripes, I would recommend thinner stripes because they have a more slimming effect than thicker stripes. Stripes are great for summer because they look so nautical.


This is the shirt I absolutely love! There are so many ways to wear it, but my favorite is with a blazer and jeans.

Some people might say this dress is unflattering and makes her look pregnant, but I would totally rock it.

I love this outfit on so many levels. The color combination is great, and the thin stripes are very slimming.

I love blazers! If you're worried about stripes making you look bigger, then a blazer would be a good alternative. (Don't even get my started on those shoes. To die!)

Kara's Kooking-Sauteed Spinach

I was recently inspired by a fellow blogger to start eating healthier. I was in a rut of mac n' cheese, spaghetti, frozen dinners, take-out etc. The take-out was hurting my wallet, but these habits were also hurting my waist line and my general well being. With my jobs, some weeks it's virtually impossible for me to eat at home, but I'm trying very hard. For instance, last night my friends and I went to happy hour and usually we would eat as well. I had just gone to the grocery store so I said to myself "Wait until you get home to eat." And I did! Anyway, the goal is to try one new item/recipe per week in order to get out of my food rut!

I buy spinach for this pasta dish I make a lot (recipe to come next week), but I always end up throwing most of it out. I'm not a huge fan of spinach salad unless in the mood, so I thought, what else can I do with all this spinach? I decided to try sauteed spinach. I had never tried it, but knew it had to be pretty good since my dad is a fan. I did a little research to get a the general idea of how to make it, and it was simple.

I threw maybe half a tablespoon of olive oil into a pan along with one clove of minced garlic. I let the pan heat up on medium-low and then threw in a couple handfuls of spinach. I just stirred it around a bit until it was wilted. Finally, I sprinkled with a bit of parmesan cheese. Delicious! (For those wondering, I had it with chicken and parmesan risotto.)

The best part about spinach is since it wilts down so much, you get a huge serving of vegetables, even though it seems relatively small.

Glutton for BBQ

A few months ago, I experimented with being a vegetarian, although I guess technically I was a pescatarian since I still ate fish. During this experiment, my friend invited me to her house for what she called "a carnivore fest," but wouldn't be offended if I didn't come. I knew it would be tempting since she had flown in "Jack Stack," all the way from Kansas, but I thought I could resist temptation. After about 45 minutes of taking in the sights, smells, and even sounds coming from my friends, I gave in and had meat. In that moment, I realized that I didn't have a "real" reason for being vegetarian, rather it was just something I wanted to do. Well let's just say since that night, I am no longer a pescatarian. Which brings me to "Frisco BBQ Challenge," the largest of its kind in Colorado.

Frisco BBQ challenge kicked off last Thursday night, and then ended Saturday night. I knew I would be partaking in the festivities for 2 reasons. One, I live literally a block from where it is held every year, and two, my company is the beer sponsor.

Thursday night kicked off with a concert by "Hot Buttered Rum," but I didn't really listen. I was more interested in passing about my $1 beer coupons, and getting people to my event at Jonny G's. One of the aspects of my job is hosting promotions/parties, even if they don't start until 10:00 p.m. Thanks to my amazing friends, the event was a success, even if I felt awful the next day.

Friday was when all the vendors and competitors started selling their food. Unfortunately, the weather was miserable and my coworkers and I got caught in 2 rain storms, soaking us to the bone. However, insane amounts of food were eaten by all. I tried some bbq, some corn on the cob, funnel cake, and chocolate covered bacon (which wasn't as bad as it sounds). That night, against my better judgment, I went out with 2 coworkers, which was fun and a good "bonding" experience.

Our luck changed, and on Saturday, the weather was much improved. It was fairly windy at times, but the sun was shining and beer was had by the masses! My dear friend Katie joined me at the bbq, where I indulged in more bbq, and the item I had had my eyes on ALL weekend-a "Berry Kabob," which was strawberries and bananas drizzled in chocolate. To die for!

At the end of the festivities, I was a little worse for wear, but had a great time nonetheless. Definitely something everyone should check out if you're ever in Colorado during mid-June!

3 Wishes...

...HAVE BEEN GRANTED!!!

Within the next few months, these 3 gifts to mankind will open their doors in COLORADO!!

Boycotting Walmart

My parents and I have recently decided to boycott Walmart. It took my dad a bit of convincing since he really likes their generic mouth wash, but has decided Listerine will do. Although Walmart does have lower prices, it comes at a cost. Unfortunately, as consumers, we're not entirely aware of what that cost is. In business class, I learned that Walmart essentially bullies their suppliers in order to get the lowest prices possible. For some suppliers, this leads to a very low return, but what other choice do they have? If suppliers don't agree to Walmart's demands, Walmart will say adios-you don't have to sell your product at our stores.

Here are a couple more alarming insights about Walmart:

1. Community Impact: When Walmart enters a new community, smaller companies are often forced to lower wages and standards in order to compete. This usually doesn't work for long, and companies are forced to close their doors.

2. Employee Benefits and Wages: Walmart is worth BILLIONS of dollars, yet many of their employess aren't able to afford their benefit packages. On top of that, Walmart recently did away with their profit sharing program. Additionally, most Walmart Associates fall below the poverty line. Being a retail industry leader, Walmart has the opportunity to set industry standards for wages and benefits, but unfortunately, all they care about is the bottom line. Here's in interesting article that talks about wages, and how it would be easy for Walmart to raise wages http://walmartwatch.org/blog/archives/12-an-hour-would-be-easy-lift-for-walmart/

For some people, Walmart is their only option because it's all they can afford. However, I'm lucky enough to be able to choose where I shop, and I will never choose Walmart again!

Check out some more information about Walmart here www.walmartwatch.org

And if you need more convincing, check out http://www.peopleofwalmart.com/

Fashion Friday-Wedges

Wedges have got to be my favorite item of footwear at the moment! Wedges are definitely the most comfortable heel out there since they give so much support. My only wish is that there were more wedges out there that don't have a 4 inch heel. I love wearing heels, but seeing as I'm already 5'9", I don't like to tower over people all the time. I have one pair, Tahari, that have a 2.5 inch heel and they're fantastic! What do you think about tall girls adding additional height?

These are the Tahari wedges that I live in!

Check out Rachel Zoe's picks on www.piperlime.com

Congratulations to the 2011 Stanley Cup Champs

So happy to see the Boston Bruins win the Stanley Cup! I'm perfectly content with keeping the cup out of the Northwest Division until the Avs bring it back.

Saying No

I have finally started admitting to myself that I have a difficult time saying no to people. I've always been like this, but it has finally gotten to a point that it bothers me because I want to be a strong woman that can stand up to people and hold my ground. Unfortunately, I've always been someone that cares way too much about what other people think of me, and it's crippling. I'm always wondering, "Is so-and-so going to be upset," "Are people going to think I'm not helpful," etc.

There are a few reasons I have a hard time saying no: I want to help people, I don't want to be rude, I want to be agreeable, HUGE fear of conflict, I don't want to offend anyone, and I don't want to burn bridges. However, enough is enough. Now that I'm in the "business world," it is time for me to assert myself and present myself as the strong, independent woman that I am.

Now the tricky part. How to say no. Being agreeable is not only a character trait, but also a habit, so I imagine this will be a tough process. I think for me, the best way to change my habits is to start small. For instance, the other day I wen to Bath and Body Works to get kitchen soap. They were out of the kind I usually get, but the girl was like, "This scent is great. Do you like it?" And it was good, but not my favorite. However, not wanting to say not or hurt her feelings, I bought it. Good thing the scent is decent otherwise I'd be in trouble! But the point is, instances like those are great opportunities for me to start saying NO!

If I have any breakthroughs, I'll be sure to let you know!

"I Love You Fake Michael"

For those of you that might not know, I am a huge Michael Jackson fan! His "Dangerous" album was on repeat when I was growing up, and to this day, "Black or White" is quite possibly my favorite song. Well on Friday night, a MJ Tribute show came to Red Rocks and of course I went! The plan was to wear my bedazzled glove that came with my wii MJ Experience game and my fedora, but I forgot the glove at my apartment, and my neighbor didn't want to deal with me and the damn hat flying all over the place because of the wind.

The night started off tailgating at Red Rocks, which was so much fun. We brought sandwiches and a bottle of wine because we like to keep things classy, and thank goodness my friend came prepared with wine glasses and a bottle openers since I of course forgot!

We then began the hike up to the amphitheater, which didn't get to me like most people thanks to living 10,000 feet above sea level. As we made our way with wine in hand, this little boy (dressed to the nines in MJ attire) said to his parents, "They're going to get drunk before they even get inside." It was incredibly adorable, and honestly, we just didn't want to spend $7 for a Coors Light and the wine was delicious (Hob Nob Pinot Noir if you're looking for a great, inexpensive wine).

We took our seats and waited for the show to begin! As soon as the music started we noticed this gentleman in the row in front of us dancing like you wouldn't believe. I haven't even seen anyone dance like that in the club, but he was loving every second. We later came to find out his name was Peter, and his friend was having NONE of his dancing antics. Either way, we found it incredibly entertaining and he really added to the experience!

During one number, "MJ" and his 4 dancers started doing the exact Michael moves, during which I yelled "This is real, this is real." From our vantage point, it really looked like Michael Jackson doing his thing, but he had misplaced his voice. At one quiet moment, much to my friend's delight and embarrassment I yelled "I love you Fake Michael" and it was probably the highlight! The poor lady next to me must have thought I was off my rocker. Nope, just love me some Michael Jackson.

For a lot of people, one thing comes to mind when they hear Michael Jackson's name: freak. Year, they guy was pretty weird and had some issues, but to me, it's pretty apparent that there were some underlying factors that contributed to the choices he made in life. We'll never know teh truth because he was "Gone Too Soon." But, when I hear some of his songs like "Earth Song," "Heal the World," and "Man in the Mirror," it's hard to believe that he did the things he was accused of.

My final point is, people can learn a lot from those afore mentioned songs.

"Heal the world, make it a better place, for you and for me and the entire human race."

My Go-To Party Dish

Last summer I needed a dish to bring to a neighborhood block party, but wanted to bring something other than your standard potato salad or coloslaw. My mom suggested macaroni cheese. I had made homemade (not from a box) mac and cheese once before and it ended up being incredibly bland so I was worried about finding a recipe that would have a lot of flavor and be easy to make. I came across a recipe that sounded good, so I went with it. The neighborhood loved it and everyone asked for the recipe. It has now become my go-to dish whenever I am asked to bring something. It takes some time to make, but it's pretty simple, delicious, and always a crowd pleaser.



Baked Macaroni and Cheese

1 pound macaroni

1 (11 ounce) can condensed cream of Cheddar cheese soup

1 1/2 cups milk

14 ounces extra sharp white Cheddar cheese, shredded, divided (I've also used sharp yellow cheddar which was fine)

1 (14.5 ounce) can stewed tomatoes

1/4 cup dry bread crumbs

Salt and pepper to taste (I usually do about half a tsp of each)

Directions:

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain and reserve.

In a large saucepan over low heat, warm soup and add milk; stir. Add 1/2 of cheese to soup and remove mixture from heat when cheese is melted.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

Add macaroni and tomatoes to soup; stir and pour into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover with bread crumbs and remaining cheese.

Bake in preheated oven for 25 to 40 minutes or until the cheese is a golden brown; serve. (I cover it with foil after the first 15 minutes).

What I'm Reading: Nineteen Minutes

I just finished reading "Nineteen Minutes" by Jodi Picoult. Without giving anything away, it's about a high school student named Peter that is bullied relentlessly, and feels the only way to stop it is to shoot his bullies. Picoult used the Columbine shooting for the majority of her research, so there are many similarities. I was in 5th grade when Columbine happened and still remember that day all too well so this book hit a little too close to home. Although it was quite intense at parts, I really enjoyed reading it. So often Jodi Picoult's books make you think, and this book did exactly that. Although Peter shot and killed people in this story, you can't help but feel sorry for him and what he had to endure. The book brings up the topic of "battered woman syndrome" and you ask yourself if that would work in Peter's case. Women in abusive relationships sometimes end up killing their partner or spouse because in their mind, they have no other way out so they use battered women syndrome as their defense. Is Peter's situation the same? Or could the school have done more to protect him?



*We also read "House Rules" by Jodi Picoult, which I HIGHLY recommend. It's another book that makes you think about the legal system, and whether or not it works for people that are "different."

Fashion Friday- Belts

I absolutely love fashion. Unfortunately, I live in a city (and state for that matter) that doesn't really appreciate fashion. Even if I just wear heels people ask me "What's the special occasion?" Can't a girl just wear a cute pair of shoes without any alterior motives? Part of the problem could be that I'm already 5'9" so to some people, heels might be a bit excessive. Anyway, enough venting. Every Friday I will post something related to fashion. It might be a trend I'm wearing, or could be a trend that I love, but could never pull off.

Right now I am bananas (my ode to a fashion icon, Rachel Zoe) for belted dresses and rompers. I tend to stick to dark, neutral colors, but for this summer I love floral dresses with a brown belt. Living in the mountains it's imperative to always have a cardigan or light jacket with you since its "never summer" here. You could belt the dress and wear the cardigan on top, or put the belt over the cardigan. The best part of belting the dress is that it's flattering on everyone because you place the belt at the smallest part of your waist. I saw this outfit at the J. Crew outlet, but it was way too expensive. I loved this outfit so I took the picture for future inspiration.




I also think belted rompers are fabulous. Unfortunately, my legs are too long to pull off this look. However, I love how this work for Kim Kardashian. Her waist looks SO tiny! (Warning: The Kardashian are my numero uno fashion inspiration so I imagine there will be a lot of pictures of their outfits on here).



My final look is something I could definitely see myself wearing. Like I said, I love wearing dark colors. People always want me to wear my color, but for me dark colors are easy and I feel comfortable, yet sexy in them. Again, the belt makes her waist look itty bitty!

Nothing is permanent

It's been awhile, but I'm re-entering the blogging world. I promise to do my best to update this whenever I can!

I have been living and working in the Breckenridge area for 8 months now (can't believe it's been that long), and it has been quite the ride thus far. I'm very blessed to have great job, but it has been an adjustment living in the mountains. Most people move to the mountains because they dream of skiing everyday and living the mountain lifestyle. This season broke all records as far as snowfall is concerned; we had over 500 inches!  I also knew no one when I moved up here, so had to make all new friends (which isn't as easy as one might imagine). Along with all of that, let's throw adjusting to a brand new job into the mix. Although there have been some rough days along the way, I am a strong believer in learning from every single experience.

1. I have learned that I can live on my own, completely independent. I will admit though, when I have questions (like how to bake chicken breast) I call home. But, I'm learning and that's what matters.

2. When I was sad and lonely, I did something about it. Even though it would have been easy to sit on my couch, eat my feelings, and feel sorry for myself, I didn't. I put myself out there and made friends, and they have been great.

3. I also learned that it gets better. It might not seem like it, but eventually things will turn around. Nothing is permanent!

4. Netflix is a girl's best friend (only cause my apartment won't let me have a dog). I found some great shows on instant que. I recommend Brothers and Sisters, Hot in Cleveland, Desperate Housewives.

5. Finally, I've learned that I'm strong and I can handle what life throws at me. As the saying goes, what doesn't kill you makes you stronger!