It's a hot summer day, the AC is broken, and the pool is closed. Plus, it's day 2 on your "shape up for the new school year" diet. Meaning, no ice cream. What's a girl to do? My answer: shave ice!
Well, this wasn't exactly my story. But nonetheless I want to pay tribute to one of my favorite summer treats. I'm not talking about the crunchy syrup-drenched chunks of ice found at the state fair. Nope. Quality shave ice guarantees a melt-in-you-mouth experience. And we found some!
Osaka-ya
2215 10th Street
Sacramento, CA 95818
Strawberry flavor.
Sweet azuki bean topping, a classic Japanese addition.
yumm!
Let's give a cheer for Farmers Markets across the USA!
A quick trip to Point Reyes, California brought not only fantastic views of the national seashore and scenic running along the coast, but another pleasant surprise: Toby's Farmers Market. My childhood memories include fond Saturday mornings eating honey sticks at the local farmers market. Yet to my regret I realize that my busy college years have been completely void of the market goodness. What happened?! Well I am back in Boston, and aspired anew!
If in the California-Point Reyes area, be sure to check out the market.
http://pointreyesweekend.com/point-reyes-farmers-market-2009
*note to self* Farmers Markets are a photofest!
Cooking night with a friend tonight. We made a fab pesto sauce over pasta, and these easy bruschetta. The sweet tomato, sharp balsamic vinegar and savory basil carried enough flavor on its own; providing a healthy and crunchy start to our meal!
2 ripe tomato
3 cloves garlic
handful of fresh basil
balsamic vinegar
parmesan cheese
Mince garlic and sauté in olive oil. Dice fresh tomatoes and add. Chop fresh basil into desired size and add together with balsamic vinegar to taste. Add dash of pepper or a little salt if desired.
Cut baguette into thin slices and toast for 5 minutes at 425. Remove from oven, turn baguette slices, and top with tomato mixture. Bake for another 2-3 minutes, until bread is crispy on top and the tomato juice is dry. Remove from oven and top with parmesan cheese.
*Crunch* Enjoy!
Mango Tapioca Smoothie from Rainbow Cafe. Treat yourself with layered goodness of creamy vanilla tapioca, tangy fresh mango, and sweet vanilla ice cream.
This item is not on their regular menu, so just ask for the mango ice cream special. Or point to the sign on the wall (see picture below). Rainbow Cafe is located on Beach Street (cross sectioned with Oxford?) in Chinatown, Boston. I'll see you there!
Disclaimer. I am not a Registered Dietitian yet. I provide nutrition information intended for the general public, not for the treatment of a specific medical condition. I try to use scientific research and reliable sources when forming my opinions and messages.