Beach Brunching

If you haven't checked out the latest issue of LPF Mag yet, shame on you. But if you have, then you probably saw my feature on brunching in style. I wanted to create three very different brunch experiences that you can replicate at home on as big or small of a scale as you want. In the article, I gave style tips on creating your own beach brunch by using shades of blue and gathered black shells as a centerpiece. You don't have to set up a table on the beach like I did to create a lovely beach themed brunch at home! Serve up chicken biscuits, yogurt parfaits, fresh fruit and scones.  With relaxing colors, bold patterns, and bloody mary's, this brunch is a perfect way to ring in beach season.

The Happiest Hour {Strawberry Mango Spritzer}

I think at this point I'm just trying to will the spring weather. I thought there for a bit it was here to stay. Sadly, I was mistaken. We have nothing but colder than normal temperatures forcing me to curl up inside in front of the fire. This spritzer, though, is my last attempt. It screams of warm days and outdoor brunches. Full of fresh strawberries and mango, it's light and refreshing. It's a cocktail worthy of sipping all afternoon. Here's the recipe!

:: Ingredients ::
4 Strawberries, sliced
1/4 Mango, diced
1 Cup White Wine
Club Soda
Ice

:: Directions ::
Combine wine, strawberries, and mango over ice in a wine glass. Top with club soda and sip!

Indulge In {Fruit & Yogurt}

In the middle of a heat wave, nothing beats fresh seasonal fruit. Full of flavor, utterly delicious, and not to mention healthy, it's a yummy mid day snack. Inspired by this month's issue of Rachael Ray Magazine, I've found a new way to take fresh fruit to a whole new level. I'm always searching for new creative dessert ideas that everyone will enjoy. It's hard when some people don't like cake or others can't each ice cream, but this indulgence makes it easy. Everybody can have it there way. Fresh fruit, greek yogurt and a variety of toppings make for a stress free hands on dessert. Guest can pick their fruit, dip in yogurt, and dip in the toppings of their choosing. Today I did pineapple with honey Greek yogurt and dark chocolate shavings, almond pieces and sprinkles. It was major delicious and took 5 minutes to prepare. Something like this is perfect for a dinner party because it allows you to enjoy and spend more time with guests!

Enjoy! 

Indulge In {Breakfast Skewers}

Hi dolls! Yesterday, we planned a fabulous at home spa day for Mom this Mother's Day. Now it's time to talk about what we are going to feed her throughout the relaxing day. Seeing as the two of you will be busy getting pampered all day, leave dinner up to Dad and conquer breakfast for yourself. Since it is such a special day, indulge in special treats like these breakfast skewers. Filled with fresh fruit and glazed doughnut holes, this breakfast sweet makes breaking the diet easy. Accompany it with chocolate or caramel for dipping and even shredded coconut for added flavor and texture.  Here's the how to from Val So Cal...

:: Ingredients ::

Doughnut Holes

Fresh Berries

Skewers

Chocolate Sauce

Caramel Sauce

Shredded Coconut

:: Directions ::

1. Skewer doughnut holes and berries.

2. Serve on a platter with a side of chocolate, caramel, and shredded coconut.

3. Enjoy!