It's been much colder than I prefer in my neck of the woods and sometimes all we want to do is throw on our biggest (and ugliest) sweatshirt to keep warm, there are other options. Layering is huge in the winter time because it is a chic way of staying warm. Always start with a cami, I have one in just about every color because most of my outfits don't feel complete without them. Having an oversized sweater helps too. This is an easy and effortless look. Cami, white blouse, big sweater, and faux fur vest. Pair it with colored pants for a little pop. Now you are warm and styled for your busy day.
The Right Color
Are you needing a solid colorful handbag but are confused on the right color? Look no further! This is my newest love and according to Diane Von Furstenberg my favorte color is the perfect color for your solid color bag. This fabulous shade pairs well with bright hues or neutrals. Bright outfits will make it pop right along with them and as far as the tans and blacks, well they let the bag do the talking. Also, not that it matters to me but this will be a great color to transition from Winter to Spring.
Savory Soup
I'm not a huge fan of winter but one thing I do like about it is getting to eat soup. Not that I don't all year round or anything but it being a chilly 19 degrees out today just makes soup making even more enjoyable. I adaped this recipe which is "Rustic Italian Gnocchi Soup" from the cookbook "Skinny Taste", a Christmas present from my Mom.
The nice thing about most soup recipes is that often times it is easy to omit or add ingreadiences. So this yummy soup recipe is mostly from the book but I took out the sausage that it called for as I try not to eat a ton of meat. Also, as the name sake of the book says you can eat this guilt free as it only has about 200 calories per serving. Talk about starting your Monday off right.
You'll need:
- 3 Tbsp flour
- 4 1/2 chicken broth
- 1 cup fat free milk
- 1 small onion
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 (16 oz ) package gnocchi
- 3 cups baby spinage
- 2 Tbsp basil
- A dash of parm cheese
In a small small bowl make a slurry (see below), Add 1/2 cup water, broth and milk and bring to a boil. Add in veggies and allow to cook about 15-20 minutes. Add slurry, stir, and return to boil. Add gnocchi, spinach and garlic and cook until pasta becomes puffy and floats. Add parm cheese and enjoy!
I have a huge hunger for yes soup but also learning new things. Every time I make a new recipe I hope to take something from it. Today, I learned what a "slurry" is. This recipe directed to make a slurry which was to whisk together 3 Tbsp of flour and one cup water. I knew that flour helps to thicken but I've never done it this way before. I guess it's true that you learn something new everyday.