Listen to Lena

Perfecting the Art of Conversuasion

Food

Beat the Morning Rush: It’s as Simple as #SteepSleepEat!

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I’ll be honest: when my friends at Quaker reached out and asked me to take a “Hassle Free Morning” Challenge, I was a bit skeptical. I mean, mornings ‘round here are crazy. Between getting two (sometimes three, all non-morning) family members off for the day, prepping my to-do list, fitting in a quick workout (maybe), writing a witty and engaging blog post (that’s why you’re here, right?) and about a million other little things that are somehow the responsibility of the person who answers to “mom”, I didn’t need the added stress of a challenge, TYVM.

BUT WAIT! Upon further inspection, it appeared that the point of the challenge was to alleviate some of my morning stress; the NEW Quaker Overnight Oats with Quinoa and Flaxseed products are designed to deliver a tasty and nourishing addition to breakfast with MINIMAL FUSS!

Dear Quaker: I’m all in.
First things first – if you haven’t tried making overnight oats, you’re missing out. They’re one of the easiest ways to enjoy a comforting and satisfying serving of oatmeal in the morning, and the best part is, they’re made the night before! …

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A Legendary Taste for Snacking Success

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Some mothers raise math wizards. Others, future professional athletes. Me? I’m raising two snacking champions.

Oh yes, there is such a thing.

When the boys return home from school, they make a beeline to the pantry and refrigerator. They’re so ravenous, you’d swear they have hollow legs! I used to hover, helicopter-parent style, ensuring they were making healthy and satisfying choices. But over the years I’ve learned that if you make nutritious options easy to grab and readily available, it’s that much easier for kids to gravitate towards them.
Here are my tips for after school snacking success.

1. Create a squad of BFFs. Best Finger Foods, that is. There’s no doubt that little hands like to reach for little foods. I always have sliced vegetables, sweet berries, bite-size croissants and Mini Babybel on hand. The varying tastes and textures satisfy their need for crunchy, soft, salty and sweet. …

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Good Vibes Only: That’s the Power of Protein

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“You’re superwoman!” my girlfriend says every time we catch up. “What’s your secret – tell me, how do you do it all?”
I laugh, shaking my head. I don’t do it all – not even close. I’ve got about nine unfinished blog posts, seven loads of laundry, four dusty dressers and two little boys who are used to mommy saying “come back in five minutes, I just need five more minutes” on an hourly basis. Sigh. …

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Food Diary: In-Room Dining at Sheraton Vancouver Airport Hotel

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Food diaries are my very favourite posts to write, like, ever. (I try not to write them on an empty stomach.) In my last post, I chatted about the benefits of breaking up long distance travel with an overnight stay. And, I may have teased you with the following photo –
One word: Om nom nom.

The in-room dining menu at Sheraton Vancouver Airport Hotel features fresh coastal cuisine from Harold’s Bistro, a casual dining restaurant located in the hotel lobby. Named after a customer who lunched in the restaurant every day for over 35 years (no kidding!), the Richmond hotspot welcomes guests with a warm, modern ambiance. …

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Chocolats Favoris: Your New Obsession

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Last year, after catching up with a long-distance friend, she slipped something in my handbag as we parted ways.

“Try this,” she said. “It’s my very favourite chocolate from Quebec.”

At the time, I hadn’t heard of Chocolats Favoris – but, being a bona fide chocoholic, of course I accepted the treat with gratitude.

It was the birth of an obsession.

Friends, I want to introduce you to my very favourite brand of chocolatey confections. Chocolats Favoris is a Quebec-based brand – soon to expand further into Ontario! – that has reinvented the traditional concept of a chocolate shop.

Why do I love them so much? Let me count the ways.

1. They’re pretty – almost too pretty to eat. (I said “almost”.) Everything from the whimsical, dreamy packaging to the artistically masterful fine chocolates lures you in. You’ve heard the adage “like a kid in a candy store”… at Chocolats Favoris, you’ll feel like an Instagrammer in a confectionary paradise.
2. They’re devastatingly delicious. I’ve often joked with my husband that death by chocolate would only be acceptable if the sweet treat was from Chocolats Favoris. Their fine chocolates are concocted by master chocolatiers and made with care. Their packaged fondue – both easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious – makes the perfect dessert or gift.

And who can forget about their chocolate bars? Available in inspiring flavours such as Hazelnut Praline, Raspberry Burst, Maple Vanilla, Creamy Coffee and many more, you’ll have a hard time picking a favourite. My advice? Try them all. …

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Grandma’s Apple Juice Cake

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Fall, 1989. As the leaves turned a beautiful burnt orange and the cold-weather clothing was retrieved from storage, I’d hear a familiar warning as I reached into the refrigerator:

“Don’t drink all the apple juice!”

I can still hear my mom’s voice, issuing the command as I hurriedly selected a different beverage. Because in my childhood home, fall meant long walks, oversized hoodies and my mom’s special Apple Juice Cake. I’m not quite sure why it was only baked in those selected months; perhaps it’s because the cake paired well with strong, hot coffee and was the perfect comfort food on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Regardless, as soon as the weather cools and the days become shorter, I find myself thinking about that cake, made with simple ingredients that I always have on hand. Today, I continue the tradition during the autumn months with my own boys. To them, it’s Grandma’s Apple Juice Cake. To me, it’s a piece of my childhood. …

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A Very Warm Welcome.

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In Grade 6, I met a girl named Fatima. Her family had recently immigrated to Canada from Fujairah, United Arab Emirates. She had long, shiny black hair, expressive brown eyes and the most lovely, shapely eyebrows.

(My obsession with perfect brows began shortly after I met her. Whenever I hear the expression “eyebrows on fleek”, I can’t help but think of her, where she is today, and if her eyebrows are still fabulous. And somehow, I just know they are.)

Fatima’s family arrived in November, shortly after the first snowfall of the season. The timing of her arrival is perfectly preserved in my mind, mainly because I was tasked with walking her to and from the school office during recess.

You see, Fatima didn’t have a winter coat.
We didn’t speak during the short walks from our portable to the office, mutually overcome with embarrassment. But I recall feeling confused and irritated, thinking, who sends their kid to school in winter without a warm coat? Fatima’s jacket – what I’d consider to be a windbreaker – was thin and flimsy. …

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Easy, Natural and Versatile Dinners… #MadeLikeHomemade!

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Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

Last night, I made:

1. The most delicious enchiladas, like, ever…
2. Featuring savoury slow roasted turkey…
3. In less than 30 minutes…
4. And the entire family gobbled them up.

Think it’s an impossible task? Break out your grocery list app, honey, because I’m going to show you exactly how to do it – and I’m going to blow your mind, too. Here’s what you need to do.
1. Make your own enchilada sauce. First, it’s almost impossible to find it in mainstream grocery stores, and second, it only takes seven minutes from start to finish. Plus, if you love Mexican-inspired dishes, I promise you’ll already have all the ingredients on hand. …

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From Farm to Table: Simple Ways to Apple-y Goodness

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Would you be shocked if I told you Thanksgiving is next weekend?

Trust me, I’m just as surprised! Mother Nature has been throwing Ontarians for a loop lately, so it’s no wonder that the date creeped up on us. However, as soon as the weather starts to cool, I have no doubt we’ll suddenly be tuned into all things fall. And I love this season especially; the bountiful harvest inevitably reminds me of my special times at Chudleigh’s Entertainment Farm.
Have you visited the farm this season? You’ll want to pop down to their expansive orchard before the end of October. At the moment, Red Delicious and Northern Spy apples are ready for picking, while Honeycrisp apples are already picked and ready for purchase! …

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How Do You Whippet?

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Nostalgia. \nä-ˈstal-jə: the state of being homesick; a wistful or excessively sentimental yearning for return to or of some past period or irrecoverable condition.

I’ll never forget the first time I had a Whippet. I’m guessing my boys won’t forget the first time they had Whippet Sticks, either.
(A flaky macaroon in a thin stick? YES please! Reid can’t get enough Whippet Sticks Coconut.)

But first, let me take you back… WAY back…

I was in fifth or sixth grade, visiting with a friend at her house after school. We walked into her kitchen, greeted by hot chocolate and a selection of cookies.

My eyes zeroed in on the Whippet.

It was a lovely, chocolate-covered dome and I anticipated deliciousness inside. My friend and her mom both reached for one at the same moment; following suit, I gently lifted one from the plate. And just as I was about to bite into the delicate cookie… SMASH! …

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Solve Weeknight Dinner Dilemmas with Great Value Pasta Sauce

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Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

A recent conversation with my husband went something like this:

“So Reid has soccer on Monday nights and Ryder has language therapy on Tuesdays. They both have swimming on Wednesday nights and on Thursdays, don’t forget Ryder has martial arts…”

Sounds like your family too? Weeknights are hectic, I know. In fact, I spend an inordinate amount of time fussing over what to serve for dinner, only to fall back on tried-and-true favourites that I know the boys will eat (preferably, but not always, without complaint). My standby is pasta; spaghetti, macaroni, penne, rotini, fusilli… pair it with a great-tasting pasta sauce and I know they’ll clean their plates.

But kids cannot live on pasta alone.

The good news? I’ve found three new recipes to add to my repertoire thanks to Great Value Pasta Sauce. I know what you’re thinking – more pasta? Nope! These affordable dishes incorporate the deliciousness and versatility of pasta sauce in inspiring new ways. Plus, the recipes are easy to follow and ready in just 20 minutes or less. They’re perfect for crazy weeknights when time (and patience!) is limited!

Easy, Affordable Recipe #1: Cheesy Chicken Nachos
Kids love nachos, so this one’s a no-brainer. However, when was the last time you made nachos with Alfredo sauce? (I just blew your mind, didn’t I?) It’s creamy and pairs perfectly with Mexican-inspired grilled chicken and crispy blue corn tortilla chips. …

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The Smoking Gun: Where There’s Smoke, There’s Flavour

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Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

A few weeks ago, I confessed to a small – really, a *teeny* – bad habit: overspending on iced green tea lattes, to the tune of hundreds per year. I know! My bad. But I’ve since changed my ways and am happy to declare I haven’t purchased a coffee shop matcha beverage since.

However, I can’t enjoy my place on the moral high ground without admitting that I still have a few vices that cost a pretty penny, including (but not limited to) smoked artisan cheese.

Cheese please! We love indulging in really good Canadian cheeses and aren’t afraid to pay a premium for a quality product. However, we’re also smart enough to know when we’re paying too much, and lately, I’ve been pondering the markup of smoked cheeses like cheddar and gouda. Does the addition of smoky essence truly warrant an increase of up to $10 per 150g? Is there an easier (and more cost effective way) to add effortless smoke flavour enhancement to a wide variety of foods at home, including meats, cheese, dips, sauces, cocktails and more?
Introducing The Smoking Gun by Breville Canada. This wood smoke infuser allows you to infuse a variety of foods and drinks with natural smoky flavours like applewood and hickory without adding any heat. That’s right – no obtrusive smoking chamber, no fire hazard! Simply load The Smoking Gun with wood chips, light and blow smoke into a covered container of any kind. As soon as the container fills with smoke, remove the gun and swirl the smoke, allowing it to sit and infuse for a few minutes. (You can even try smoking foods twice for a deeper smoked flavour!) …

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The Most EGGcellent Time of Year

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There’s no doubt about it: In the summertime when the weather is hot, I’ve got the outdoors on my mind. In fact, I’d rather be anywhere than cooped up in the kitchen – so I take the kitchen outside.

Hadn’t pegged me for the “roughin’ it” kind of girl? Well, who said anything about roughin’ it? Indoors or outdoors, it all comes down to one thing: good food. Forget hot dogs on the grill – my idea of a portable meal is my famous Camp Fried Rice.
Never thought of making fried rice on the go? Let me blow your mind.

First, it’s an easy way to create a filling, flavourful meal while breaking away from the traditional picnic/ barbecue-style foods. Using a combination of ingredients that can be prepared up to 2 days in advance, plus shelf-stable and frozen goods, it’s a breeze to make – and who doesn’t love a little takeout-style meal when dining under the sun? Here’s how it comes together. …

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Food Diary: Huntington Beach, California

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We can talk about location, attractions, etc. etc… but we all know what makes a good vacation great: the food.
Pictured above, Ahi Poke Bruschetta from Pete’s Sunset Grille. Wakame seaweed salad, ponzu, sriracha aioli, tobiko caviar, bread crisps, olive oil and micro basil.

Our recent trip to Huntington Beach stands out in my mind, in part thanks to the kid-friendly activities, pristine beach and gorgeous weather… and of course, because of the gastronomic delights. Here’s my food diary, showcasing my favourite spots to have a fabulous meal. …

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The Fries That Bind.

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My boys are at an age where we’re finding it hard to find common ground. They’re developing their own interests and hobbies that don’t always include mom and dad (we’re officially uncool!) and I’m finding myself with more and more free time. While I was hoping for this day back when they were toddlers, now that it’s here, I’m not ready to cut the cord!

Thank goodness we can come together and enjoy delicious French fries. They’re a family favourite and because I’m smart (I always have McCain Superfries on hand) and savvy (I know how to make them the star attraction at any meal), we can indulge in our common love of potato goodness. Tex Mex fries, anyone?
Don’t you love main dishes that don’t require a recipe? Simply prepare classic McCain Superfries Straight Cut fries (a tried and true fave!), layer cooked ground beef (flavoured with taco seasoning) and add warm nacho cheese, chopped green onions, salsa and sour cream. Deceptively easy and definitely delicious! …

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Iced Matcha Latte (It’s a Breeze!)

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Friends, I have something to confess. I’m not proud of my actions, but I can assure you that I’ve since remedied my behaviour and it won’t (likely) happen again. But first, let me spill the beans.

Last year, I spent close to $300 on Iced Matcha Lattes from you-know-where.

Forgive me! I was weak. And when meeting friends, running errands, playing chauffeur or any other activity which allowed me to have one hand free, I’d pop into the nearest franchise and fork over about $6.00 for a grande green drink.

Ludicrous, I know.

The worst part? I should have known better. There’s no secret to this sweet, earthy concoction! Iced Matcha Latte literally translates to ice + green tea powder + milk. Three ingredients! (Two if you don’t consider ice an ingredient.) Since realizing how simple it is to make at home, I whip up a quick batch and take my matcha with me. Now all I have to do is figure out what to buy with all the money I’ve saved! Here’s how you can make it at home for about a dollar a glass.
1. Start with matcha. You can find matcha (green tea powder) very easily online, allowing you to shop around for the best price. I purchase matcha in the $10-12 price range for 50g, but go ahead and spend more if you’re keen on a higher quality. I’ve sampled several grades of several different brands, and truthfully, I’m cool with basic stone-ground matcha. But you do you.

2. Use Almond Breeze Vanilla. It’s perfect for so many reasons! First, the almond beverage’s nutty flavour pairs exceptionally well with the earthiness of matcha. In fact, I believe the flavour profile is even better than cow’s milk for this drink. Second, because Almond Breeze Vanilla is lightly sweetened, there’s no need to add additional sugar or honey (unless you want to). Finally, the consistency – smooth and creamy – is perfect for an iced latte! …

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We Heart Dads: Foodie Picks for Father’s Day

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Dear old dad. He often takes a backseat to mom, doesn’t he? I mean, we get all the glory for raising our kids, having awesome jobs, taking care of the home… you, know, doing it ALL… whereas fathers tend to be the strong, silent types (at least on social media). That’s why I truly believe Father’s Day should be celebrated loud and proud – let dad know he’s your number one guy, this Sunday and all year round!

Now I don’t know about you, but my husband is a foodie. So of course I decided to round up some of my favourite small appliances from Breville Canada – they’re innovative, affordable and perfect for Father’s Day.

The Smoking Gun. (Review to come!) Where there’s smoke… there’s flavour. This handy new small appliance adds an effortless finishing touch to your food by smoking meat, fish, vegetables, sauces and cocktails for a natural smoke flavour infusion. Simply load The Smoking Gun with wood chips, light and blow smoke into a covered container of any kind, stir or swirl and allow it to sit and infuse for a few minutes. You can even try smoking foods twice for a deeper smoked flavour!
We’ve been trying our hand at smoking with this innovative appliance and I’m at a place where I feel really good about it! Stay tuned for my full review. …

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#Steakcation Alert: Try This Sizzlin’ Summer Stir-fry

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I admit that I’ve been a *little* distracted while writing this post, mainly because I keep going back for another taste of this delicious Steak Stir-fry. You know, just to make sure it’s as scrumptious as I remembered… from minutes ago.

Still tender, flavourful and chock full of fresh ingredients? Lemme check. Be right back.

You may not understand my obsession until you try this easy-to-make, family-pleasing dish for yourself.
The best part? I grabbed everything I needed from my favourite one-stop shop, Walmart Canada. Now, every cut of beef Walmart sells is 100% Canadian AAA Angus beef, so I can always find premium-quality, fresh beef at affordable prices. The beef is locally sourced from Canadian farms and ranches with ideal conditions for raising Angus beef cattle, and my purchase supports hard-working Canadians who care about sustainability and quality. …

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Seven Reasons to LOVE the Breville Smart Oven Air

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Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

Don’t call it a toaster oven.

When I say the Breville Smart Oven Air is the only countertop oven you’ll need, I’m not trying to convince you of anything; I’m just trying to change your life.

Live in a condo or dorm? Have a cottage or vacation rental? Want a countertop oven that does more than just bake and reheat? Maybe you’re looking for the perfect Mother’s Day gift. Well, what if I told you that the Smart Oven Air can AIR FRY foods – using little or no added fat – until they’re CRISPY on the outside and tender on the inside?

Until I made these Malaysian Barbecue Chicken Wings, I wouldn’t have believed it myself. But now that I’ve used the Breville Smart Oven Air, I’m not just a believer – I’m a diehard fan.
IMG_0170aHere’s why you’ll love it too.

The Smart Oven Air with Element IQ and world’s first Super Convection technology is the only countertop oven that is versatile enough to replace several small appliances in your home. With Element IQ, the oven’s six independent quartz heating elements move the power where and when it’s needed most, above and below the food. Each element adjusts automatically for the setting you choose to deliver the precise and stable cooking temperature at the right time, ensuring the precise cooking process for the meal you are creating. …

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Entertaining this Spring? Make it a Breeze.

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I’m always on the lookout for simple, crowd-pleasing desserts that I can add to my repertoire – but often, it’s easier said than done. Admittedly, I’m a creature of habit and tend to revert to my old, faithful standbys; desserts I can make with the ingredients I have on hand. Because really, what’s worse than discovering you have 18% – or worse, 98% – of the ingredients you need to make a sweet concoction?
Bread PuddingOf my many staple showstoppers, one does stand out: Banana Walnut Bread Pudding. As long as I have ripe bananas on hand – and truthfully, with two young boys, bananas are a fixture in our fruit bowl – I can always make this much-loved brunch food. My secret ingredient? Almond Breeze Vanilla. …

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