Back to school and back to blog!
Thank you for indulging me a little summer break – that turned out to be longer than anticipated. Not because anything was wrong, but because it just felt right to spend this time with my sons, who return to school tomorrow. We’ve had a jam-packed summer, yet I think we’re all ready for the rhythm and routine that comes with September.
And, I’m excited to share more fun finds in the areas of living, giving and entertaining. Lots of pitches come across my proverbial desk, but I cull them pretty carefully. This is one that made the cut and I’m excited to share with you.
Mason Jar Salads and more by Julia Mirabella is a bright and cheerful cookbook that appeals to me for many reasons. The 50 recipes are healthy. The photos are bright and make me want to recreate the recipes. And, the packing strategy is convenient and time saving.
We’re all pressed for time, whether it’s managing a busy household or dashing off to our dream job, so having some organizational tricks up our sleeves is what keeps things under control. Julia walks you through the layering steps to keep your salad from getting soggy and even makes suggestions for breakfasts on the run. Tortilla soup for the new parents. Dinner for the babysitter. Something for the neighborhood picnic. In other words…versatility! Below are a couple of recipes that Julia was kind enough to share with you.
The guacamole is featured b/c it is one of my all time favorite foods/snacks/obsessions…and I love the special ingredient…grapefruit.
For that recipe and many, many more…grab a copy for yourself and this is definitely a gift-worthy book at under $20!
Now, let’s get back to work! It’s great to be back!!
images: courtesy of Ulysses Press
Welcome back Elizabeth…I took a few days off too and it felt good to "recharge". Everyone needs to do that from time to time…..I love this!! Not only is it totally fabulous looking but how fun to eat of a darling mason jar and everything is nice and tidy! I love how novel i it is….such a great idea. Thank you….I know just the person whose birthday is coming up who would love this! Enjoy these last couple of days of summer…..
Elizabeth… I need a hostess gift for a luncheon that I am invited to in a couple of weeks. Will definitely buy this darling book. Have a great week.
Those look delicious and what a fun idea to bring to a dinner party as well!!Hope you had a great time away and glad to see you back I missed your posts!
Hi Elizabeth, What a great idea for a lunch or picnic! The Pomegranate and Pear Salad is perfect for fall and of course……give me guacamole anytime;) Glad you are back and took some time off for yourself and to be with your family. I will hopefully be back in a few weeks. The house construction has really zapped my mental energy and I can do little else but focus on the house/construction zone.
Enjoy the rest of the week!
What a great idea, I have a bit of a canning jar fetish, and I am always looking for new ways to use them. What a smart way to store a salad to serve later, so much more space efficient than a bulky bowl.
Guac and grapefruit? MMMMMM, my 2 faves, have to try that out!
Welcome back, Elizabeth!!! I have missed you, but I am so happy you had some unplugged time with your boys!! I love the concept of mason jar salads – I even bought a dozen jars to make them and I still haven't done it. This post is inspiring me to try these recipes! Best of luck to the boys on the first day of school! xoxo
Welcome back Elizabeth! Time with your boys is something that you can never get back so you are a very wise Mom. Love the look of these salads, especially the pear salad, yum, one of my favorites.
Happy Wednesday and Happy Fall,
Kathysue
I love love love this idea! Welcome back!
xo
Sharon
Just looking at the guacamole has my mouth watering.
This is one for the list!
Teresa
xoxo
I've been dying to try these, so thanks so much for the recipe share. Welcome back 🙂
http://www.designsbykaty.com
Hi Elizabeth, welcome back and what a beautiful site to see, with these colorful and artful salads!
I have been off a while myself with yet another hip replacement, now starting home health care rehab!
YOu have inspired me to continue my healthy eating!
xoxo
Karena
The Arts by Karena
I am so happy to see you back, but glad you were able to spend that time with your sons. These salads look amazing and like what I need to be indulging in right now…can't wait to try!!