Breakfast Obsession - Quinoa with berries and fresh parsley

Why Quinoa?

 It is high in protein, gentle on the digestive system, filled with vitamins, gluten-free and super easy to make.  Read more at Qunioa 365: The Everyday Superfood. 

 You can make the quinoa ahead of time and store it in the fridge.  It is a great addition to any meal. 

Why Berries?

They are filled with antioxidants and vitamins.  I use fresh and frozen berries.  Warming up frozen berries and pouring them on top of the quinoa is a great way to start your day.  

Why Parsley?

Vitamin C, K and A found in parsley help strengthen the body's immune system.  

Fun Dinner Party Idea

Wine Pairing

Last night we had 35 people for dinner.  It was so much fun. 

 I just had to share a great way to entertain with delicious food, good wine and lots of laughs.

We have a winery and restaurant in Chicago called Cooper's Hawk. 

 I thought it would be fun to use them and serve 4 dishes paired with different wines.  

Party City had the perfect sized mini wine glasses for tasting.  Check it out below. 

I love my friend Stephanie for letting me borrow her chafing dishes.  

It kept everything warm and looking gorgeous.  

 This Cabernet Zinfandel blend was wonderful.  

 The salmon was so yummy! 

 A salad with blue cheese and caramelized walnuts is the BEST!

My boys couldn't stop eating the pretzel bread. 

 Wasabi Mashed Potatoes to go with the salmon.   

I couldn't stop eating them!!

I had to have a fun giveaway too.  

A lucky few went home with the wine they liked best. 

Try it yourself.  

You could find a winery near you or even a liquor store can suggest good food and wine pairings.   

Beef and Guinness Stew

Looking for something to do with that left over Guinness from St. Patty's Day?
This is the perfect Irish stew to help keep the green spirit going this week.

Link to Recipe from Cooking Light

Salt 2 pounds of beef.

Dredge the beef in flour.

Brown beef and remove from pan.

Cut up 3 onions and cook until tender. 

Add 1T tomato paste and combine for 1 minute.

Pour in 1 can or bottle of Guinness.

Add 4 cups Beef Broth.

Add beef back to the pan. 

Throw in 1T raisins and 1t caraway seeds.

(You might have some leftover from making Irish Soda Bread)

Cover pan and simmer for 1 hour. 

Cut up 4 carrots, 3 parsnips and 2 turnips.
I cut up 2 potatoes as well.
It wouldn't be an Irish stew without potatoes!

Add to the pan and simmer for another 50 minutes.

Cut up some fresh parsley and sprinkle on top.  

So tasty!