Home By Geneva Summer 2021 Issue

HOME

by GENEVA

La Jolla Shores San Diego, CA

The

Wellness Issue

+

Seven Scenic Road Trips A GENEVA FINANCIAL HOME LOANS PUBLICATION

Inside this issue WELLNESS MONTH What Can You Do 4-5

FUN

S

ummer is often one of the most awaited seasons of the year. It’s the perfect time to kick back and relax, or plan that vacation you’ve been dreaming of. With another year halfway over, and unprecedented times still ahead, summer is a great time to reset.

Go Green Pg. 36

18-19

7 SCENIC ROAD TRIPS to take this summer 20-21 MORE SUMMER SALADS Vegan Pasta Salad 22 Watermelon Tomato Salad 23 Pesto Chicken Caprese Salad 24 Grilled Caesar Salad 25 Mediterranean Pasta Salad 26 Watermelon Cucumber Salad 27

Looking to refresh? Check out wellness tips you can incorporate into your life to better your mental, physical and emotional health. Try one of our crisp summer salad recipes for lunch or brunch with your best pals!

Let us also recognize summer is HOT in terms of housing, with rates still at historic lows, it may be a great time to purchase or renovate. We’ve got all the possibilities laid out for you in the pages ahead.

James Polinori

GARDENING TRENDS Summer 2021 16 Bright and Bold Botanicals 17 HOUSING MARKET This Summer's Market is Hot

We’ve whipped up some great ways for you to get out and experience life this year. Whether you want to take a road trip or throw a big summer bash – we’ve got you covered. If we have learned anything over the past 18 months, it’s just how important loved ones are. Get up and get out with those special humans in your life.

Live your best life, enjoy your summer, soak up the sun, and as always be a good human.

SUMMER SALADS Summer Steak Salad 6 Loaded BBQ Chicken Salad 7 Tomato Salad w/Herbed Ricotta 8 and Balsamic Vinaigrette Greek Chicken Salad Wedges 9 Buffalo Chickpea Salad 10 Bacon Jalapeño Corn Salad 11 Fruit Salad 12 Grape Salad 13 Southwest Style Cobb Salad 14 w/Smoky Chipotle Dressing Broccoli Salad 15

VACATION IDEAS You Have to Try This Summer

28-29

CASH OUT Refinance Benefits 30

Summer Salads to try! Pg. 6

BACKYARD Party Essentials for Summer

31

ULTIMATE CHARCUTERIE BOARD Learn How to Make One

32-33

Geneva Financial CMO

PRE-APPROVAL Why You Need One 34

Editor Home By Geneva

ACTIVITY Summer Word Search 35

The Ultimate Charcuterie Board Pg. 32

GO GREEN 10 Tips to be Green This Summer

36-37

SUMMER DESSERTS Strawberry Icebox Cake 38 Raspberry Blueberry Popsicles 39 No-Churn Pineapple Ice Cream 40 No-Bake Mango Strawberry Cheesecake 41

Wellness MON TH

Wellness is a term used to define the physical, emotional, financial, occupational, and mental health of an individual. Wellness encompasses all aspects of an individuals life and refers to the nature in which we live.

Wellness focuses on the amount of joy and fulfillment we receive from living, and things we can do to continuously improve our experience.

IMPROVING OUR PHYSICAL WELLNESS Exercise, nutrition, and healthy habits encompass the essentials of what it means to practice physical wellness. Remembering to balancing these with your body’s need for rest is also incredibly important. Our bodies are intelligent, and learning to listen to their cues and needs can lead to a better mind/body relationship and healthier lifestyle choices.

IMPROVING OUR INTELLECTUAL WELLNESS Practicing Intellectual Wellness means growing and expanding your mind through mentally stimulating and often creative activities like puzzles and brain teasers. Keeping abreast of current events, learning new skills, and reading diverse materials will all keep your mind active and healthy.

IMPROVING OUR OCCUPATIONAL WELLNESS

Occupational Wellness involves engaging in motivating and fulfilling work that goes beyond employment, participating in activities that provide meaning and purpose and reflect personal values, interests, and beliefs.

IMPROVING OUR SPIRITUAL WELLNESS Spiritual Wellness goes beyond religion.

It involves a person’s morals, ethics, and perceived purpose in life. Finding meaning in life can create an inner sense of peace and wellbeing while practicing mindfulness can develop your spiritual life no matter your beliefs.

IMPROVING OUR FINANCIAL WELLNESS

There are many viewpoints on what it means to be financially well. No matter the school of thought, however, Financial Wellness encompasses several aspects of monetary intelligence including income, debt, savings, lifestyle satisfaction, and a genuine understanding of financial processes and resources.

IMPROVING OUR EMOTIONAL WELLNESS

Emotional Wellness measures our ability to navigate our emotions and express our feelings in a healthy manner, to adjust to emotional challenges, cope with external and internal stressors, and accept ourselves as we are.

4

5

SUMMER STEAK SALAD

LOADED BBQ CHICKEN SALAD 400º PRE-HEAT 15 MIN COOKING 1 HR READY IN

20 MIN

10 MIN

30 MIN

PREP

COOKING

READY IN

INGREDIENTS

BBQ Chicken: 2 tbsp. vegetable oil

1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs 1 c. prepared bbq sauce

Salt and pepper to taste BBQ Yogurt Ranch Dressing: 2 c. cup buttermilk 1/2 c. Greek yogurt

2 tbsp. thinly sliced chives 2 tbsp. minced parsley 2 tsp. garlic powder

2 tbsp. onion powder 2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. black pepper

1/2 c. prepared bbq sauce SpoonForkBacon.com

INGREDIENTS

Bleu Cheese Dressing: 1/2 c. plain yogurt 1/4 c. sour cream

1/4 c. crumbled bleu cheese 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar 1 tbsp. thinly sliced chives Salt and pepper to taste

Salad: 2 tbsp. olive oil, coconut oil, or avocado oil

2 (12 oz.) grass-fed, boneless NY steaks (about 1 1/2 inches thick) 4 small heirloom or vine-ripe tomatoes, quartered 2 peaches, pitted and thinly sliced

DIRECTIONS 1. Remove steaks from the refrigerator and allow them to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Generously season each steak with salt and pepper.

2. Place all dressing ingredients into a small bowl and whisk together until smooth. Add 2 tablespoons water to adjust consistency. Season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to use.

3. Place a large cast-iron skillet over high heat.

4. Add oil and swirl around the skillet. Add steaks to skillet and sear on each side for 2 minutes. Transfer skillet to oven and cook for about 7-8 minutes for medium-rare and 9-10 minutes for medium. Remove steaks from the oven and transfer them to a cutting board.

Salad: 1 romaine heart, shredded

1/2 head green cabbage, shredded 1 c. canned black beans, drained and rinsed 2 roma tomatoes, diced

2 fresh corn on cobb, charred under broiler and kernels removed 1/4 red onion, diced

1/2 jicama, peeled and diced

2 green onions, sliced on bias

DIRECTIONS 1. Place large skillet over medium-high heat. Once skillet is hot add oil.

2. Generously season chicken thighs on both sides with salt and pepper.

SpoonForkBacon.com

8 strawberries halved

5. Allow steaks to cool, about 30 minutes. Tightly wrap each steak in foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 12 hours.

1/2 seedless cucumber, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced

6. To serve: Remove foil from steaks and slice into 1/2 inch pieces. Spread steak pieces onto a platter, lightly season with salt and pepper, and line with remaining ingredients.

4. Transfer thighs to a cutting board and allow them to rest for about 5 minutes. Chop chicken into bite sized pieces and transfer to a mixing bowl. Add bbq sauce and toss together until well coated. Set aside.

7. Serve with bleu cheese dressing on the side and allow guests to grab however much or little they want from the platter.

5. Place all dressing ingredients into a mixing bowl and whisk together until smooth.

2 corn on cob, charred and removed from cobb 6 to 8 fresh mint leaves

2/3 c. crumbled bleu cheese Salt and pepper to taste

3. Sear thighs for 3 to 4 minutes. Lower heat to medium and flip thighs. Continue to cook for an additional 5 to 6 minutes or until thighs have just cooked through.

6. Combine romaine and cabbage together in a large bowl and toss together. Transfer mixture to a platter. Top greens with black beans, tomatoes, corn, red onion, jicama, and bbq chicken.

7. Sprinkle salad with sliced green onion. Serve with dressing.

6

7

TOMATO SALAD W/HERBED RICOTTA AND BALSAMIC VINAIGRETTE 10 MIN PREP 0 MIN COOKING 15 MIN READY IN

GREEK CHICKEN SALAD WEDGES 25 MIN

0 MIN

25 MIN

PREP

COOKING

READY IN

INGREDIENTS 2 c. shredded rotisserie chicken breast 1 c. chopped English cucumber 1 c. chopped tomato

1/4 c. halved pitted Kalamata olives 1/4 c. finely chopped red onion

1/4 c. chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley 2 tbsp. chopped fresh oregano 1 tsp. kosher salt

1 tsp. black pepper

6 tbsp. red wine vinegar 2 tbsp. Dijon mustard 4 tsp. honey

1/2 c. plus 2 Tbsp. olive oil

4 (5-oz.) baby romaine lettuce hearts, halved lengthwise myrecipes.com

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

1 1/2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

1. Combine oil, vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and garlic in a bowl, stirring with a whisk.

.38 tsp. kosher salt

2. Combine ricotta and 2 tablespoons minced basil in a bowl, stirring with a whisk.

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/3 c. part-skim ricotta cheese

3. Arrange tomato slices on a platter; sprinkle with remaining 1/8 teaspoon salt, remaining 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and 1/4 cup torn basil leaves.

2 lbs. heirloom tomatoes, cut crosswise into 1/2-inch slices

4. Drizzle oil mixture over salad. Dollop ricotta mixture evenly over tomato slices.

1 tbsp. balsamic vinegar

3/4 tsp. ground black pepper, divided

2 tbsp. minced fresh basil

1/4 c. torn fresh basil leaves

4 oz. crumbled feta cheese

DIRECTIONS 1. Combine chicken, cucumber, tomato, olives, and onion in a medium bowl.

2. Whisk together parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, vinegar, mustard, and honey in a small bowl. Slowly whisk in oil in a steady stream until blended.

Toss chicken mixture with 1/2 cup of the dressing.

Victor Protasio myrecipes.com

3. Place 2 romaine lettuce heart halves on each of 4 plates, and top each evenly with chicken mixture. Drizzle plates evenly with remaining 1/2 cup dressing, and sprinkle with crumbled feta.

8

9

BUFFALO CHICKPEA SALAD 450º PRE-HEAT 15 MIN COOKING 50 MIN READY IN

BACON JALAPEÑO CORN SALAD 10 MIN

10 MIN

10 MIN

PREP

COOKING

READY IN

INGREDIENTS 3 c. corn

6 slices cooked bacon 1 tbsp. cilantro

1 jalapeño, minced 1/3 c. mayonnaise Juice of 2 limes

1 tsp. chili powder

1 tsp. garlic powder

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS Laura Rege delish.com

INGREDIENTS

For Chickpeas: 2 cans (13.5-oz.) chickpeas, drained and rinsed 3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil 1/3 c. Franks hot sauce

2 tbsp. melted unsalted butter

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Dressing: 1/4 c. mayonnaise 1/4 c. sour cream 1/4 c. buttermilk

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

2 tbsp. freshly chopped parsley 2 tbsp. freshly chopped dill

2 tbsp. freshly chopped chives, plus more for garnish

DIRECTIONS 1. Make the chickpeas: On a rimmed baking sheet, toss chickpeas with oil. Roast until chickpeas are crisp, about 20 minutes.

1. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients.

Stir until ingredients are completely mixed and coated in dressing.

2. Garnish with herbs, if desired, then serve.

2. Combine hot sauce and butter. Remove chickpeas from oven and immediately toss with hot sauce mixture. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Return to oven and roast 5 minutes more.

3. Meanwhile, make dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk. Add remaining ingredients and season with salt and pepper. Stir until combined. Refrigerate until ready to use.

4. In a large bowl, toss romaine and cabbage with 1/3 cup dressing. Divide among 4 bowls. Top each bowl with celery, carrots, tomatoes, avocado, and red onion. Top with chickpeas, drizzle with dressing, and garnish with blue cheese and more chives.

Park Feierbach delish.com

Salad: 8 c. cut romaine lettuce 2 c. shredded cabbage

2 stalks celery, thinly sliced

2 carrots, peeled and very thinly sliced 1 c. cherry tomatoes, halved 1 avocado, sliced

1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

3/4 c. bleu cheese crumbles

10

11

FRUIT SALAD

GRAPE SALAD 15 MIN PREP 0 MIN COOKING 20 MIN READY IN

25 MIN

0 MIN

25 MIN

PREP

COOKING

READY IN

INGREDIENTS 2 1/2 lb. Red and green seedless grapes

4 oz. cream cheese, at room temperature 1/2 c. sour cream

1/4 tsp. Kosher salt

3 tbsp. packed light brown sugar, divided 3/4 c. toasted pecans

DIRECTIONS Park Feierbach delish.com

INGREDIENTS Dressing: 1/4 c. honey

1/4 c. freshly squeezed orange juice Zest of 1 lemon

DIRECTIONS

1. Halve half of the grapes.

1. In a small bowl whisk together honey, orange juice, and lemon zest.

2. Stir together cream cheese, sour cream, salt, and 2 tablespoons brown sugar in a bowl until sugar is dissolved.

Add grapes and stir gently to coat.

2. Add fruit to a large bowl and pour over dressing, tossing gently to combine. Chill until ready to serve.

3. Top with pecans and remaining brown sugar just before serving.

Salad: 1 lb. strawberries, hulled and quartered 6 oz. blueberries

6 oz. raspberries

3 kiwis, peeled and sliced

1 orange, peeled and wedges cut in half

2 apples, peeled and chopped 1 mango, peeled and chopped

Brian Woodcock countryliving.com

2 c. grapes

12

13

SOUTHWEST STYLE COBB SALAD W/SMOKY CHIPOTLE DRESSING 20 MIN PREP 20 MIN COOKING 20 MIN READY IN

BROCCOLI SALAD 350º

15 MIN

25 MIN

PRE-HEAT

COOKING

READY IN

INGREDIENTS 1 lb. broccoli crowns

3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

3 tbsp. mayo, Sir Kensington's or vegan mayo 1 1/2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar 2 tsp. Dijon mustard

1 tsp. maple syrup or honey 1 garlic clove, minced

1/4 tsp. sea salt, more to taste 1/3 c. diced red onions

1/3 c. dried cranberries Smoky Tamari Almonds: 1/2 c. almonds 1/2 c. pepitas

1 tbsp. tamari themodernproper.com

INGREDIENTS 2 lbs. chicken breast

1 c. chipotle mayonnaise, homemade or store bought 10 c. romaine lettuce, roughly chopped 6 pieces thick cut bacon, cooked and chopped

1 c. cherry tomatoes, halved 1 c. corn

1 ripe avocado, thinly sliced 1 c. black beans, rinsed

1 c. pepper jack cheese, cubed 1/4 c. fresh cilantro, roughly chopped 1/2 c. green onions, roughly chopped

4 Eggs, hard boiled, sliced in half Smoky Chipotle Dressing: 1/2 c. chipotle mayonnaise 1/4 c. olive oil

1/4 c. cilantro, chopped

1/3 c. fresh squeezed lime juice

DIRECTIONS

1/2 tsp. maple syrup

1/4 tsp. smoked paprika

1. In a small bowl or jar add all ingredients for the chipotle dressing, whisk until smooth and set aside. *Can be stored in an airtight container for 1 week in the refrigerator.

2. Heat grill on high for 10 minutes. Dredge the chicken in 1 cup chipotle mayonnaise until completely coated. Generously season with freshly ground pepper and place on hot grill.

3. Reduce heat to low and cook without turning for 5-8 minutes. Flip chicken and continue cooking, rotating frequently, until the internet (internal) temperature reads 165°F with an instant read thermometer. Remove from grill and set aside.

4. To assemble the salad, simply layer all ingredients starting with the romaine lettuce. Thinly slice the chicken breasts and lay on top. Add dressing to the salad or serve on the side and enjoy!

DIRECTIONS 1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Chop the broccoli florets into ½-inch pieces and any remaining stems into ¼-inch dice. Peel any woody or course (coarse) parts from the stem first.

3. In the bottom of a large bowl, whisk loveandlemons.com together the olive oil, mayo, apple cider vinegar, mustard, maple syrup, garlic, and salt. Add the broccoli, onions, and cranberries and toss to coat.

4. Place the almonds and pepitas on the baking sheet, toss with the tamari, maple syrup, and smoked paprika and spread into a thin layer. Bake 10 to 14 minutes or until golden brown.

Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes (they’ll get crispier as they sit).

5. Toss the almonds and pepitas into the salad, reserving a few to sprinkle on top. Season to taste and serve.

1/4 tsp. freshly ground pepper 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika 1/2 tsp. cumin 2 tsp. honey

14

15

Summer2021 GARDENING TRENDS

Many of us may have picked up gardening during this past year while in quarantine. However, we are seeing some of these trends continue on, and for good reason.

G

rowing your own fresh fruits and veggies can be beneficial. According to Harvard Health, these are just a few of the benefits of starting your own garden:

• It helps you eat more fresh fruits and vegetables.

• You decide what kinds of fertilizers and

Bright & BOLD BOTANICALS

After a chaotic year, why not go crazy with color?

The most recent gardening trend is going bold with foliage and plants alike.

Here is a list of some of the brightest options you can choose from:

pesticides come in contact with your food.

• It lets you control when to harvest your food. Vegetables that ripen in the garden have more nutrients than some store-bought vegetables that must be picked early.

Amaryllis (Hippeastrum)

Many took to growing their own foods during the pandemic, and have stuck to this habit. GardenTech provides a helpful article on the easiest fruits and veggies to grow for beginners, read it here

Turning Your Backyard Into a Space You Love

During the pandemic and mandatory quarantines, many of us grew to recognize just how important enjoying your space is. For many, this meant a revamp of the backyard. For those who live in areas with relatively decent weather for the majority of the year, creating a dynamic outdoor living space was essential.

16

Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)

Blue Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla)

Lokelani (Rosa damascena)

17

Time on the market is still shorter than normal.

Unlike the typical summer trend, time on the market is moving at the fastest speed we’ve seen since NAR started collecting this survey-based information in 2011. The most recent Realtors Confidence Index shows that the average home is on the market for just 17 days, as shown in green in the graph below. This means houses are selling at a much faster pace than a typical summer, which the orange bars represent. If you’re looking to buy, this means you need to be prepared to move fast.

Brace for a quick pace and rely on your agent to stay in the know on the available homes in your area.

This

I

SUMMER HOUSING Market is Hot

n real estate, it’s normal to see ebbs and flows in the market. Typically, the summer months are slower-paced than the traditionally busy spring. But this isn’t a typical summer. As the economy rebounds and life is returning to normal, the real estate market is expected to have an unusually strong summer season.

Price appreciation is still rising.

Here’s how this summer is stacking up against the norm and what it means for you.

According to the latest Existing Home Sales Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), inventory levels have been rising since February of this year. Looking at the graph below, there’s a clear upward trend, as shown in the green bars. Currently, there’s roughly a 2.5 months’ supply of homes for sale. And while inventory is trending up as more houses are coming to the market, it’s still much lower than several of the previous summers, as the orange bars indicate.

If you’re looking to buy, some relief is on the way in the form of more homes coming to the market. Just remember, we still have less inventory than the norm, so be patient in your search.

Interest rates are back down again. After flirting with an upward trend early in the year, interest rates have come back down. Lower rates contribute to continuing affordability even as prices rise. We have recently seen a five-month low.

If you’re thinking of selling, now is the time.

Work with your agent to list your house before it has more competition on the market.

18

If you’re thinking of selling, data shows your house will likely sell quickly. If you’re worried about where you’ll go once your house sells, consider a newly built home as a good way to move up.

The last big factor making this an unusually strong market this summer is home price appreciation. According to the State House Price Index from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), we’re currently experiencing double-digit house price appreciation and have an average of 12.6% appreciation across the country. The graph below uses data from NAR to show a more granular view of how prices have changed month-to-month over the past few years. The green bars show the current price appreciation we’re experiencing today. Our current levels are well above what we’ve seen in recent summers, shown by the orange bars.

If you’re looking to buy, competition and bidding wars are driving prices up. Getting pre-approved can show the seller you’re serious and help you know what you can afford. Once you do, work with your agent to make a strong offer that stands out.

If you are looking to refinance, rates have dipped yet again. Refinancing can offer several benefits, whether you want to lower your payment, consolidate debt, take cash-out, and more.

If you’re thinking of selling, seize this opportunity to use your additional equity from this price appreciation to power your next move.

BOTTOM

LINE

This isn’t a typical summer. Whether you’re buying or selling, let’s connect to talk about how you can capitalize on today’s market conditions to sell your house or find your dream home.

19

A

cross the nation, there are so many stellar highways that take you through the most scenic areas of the country. We’ve compiled the best routes for you to try this summer.

Hana Highway, Hawaii Hana Highway is a highway that stretches across the island of Maui. Driving along this beautiful trek is unlike any other.

State Route 197, Connecticut This gorgeous highway in Connecticut takes you through gorgeous wooded forests and parks such as Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest. This route allows for plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and more!

Seven Mile Bridge, Florida This route is short and sweet, but absolutely breathtaking. Surrounded by the crisp blue waters this route is unlike any other.

Richardson Highway, Alaska This highway is extremely scenic and takes you through quite a long journey.

20

7

SCENIC

T O T AK E Million Dollar Highway, Colorado While there are many scenic routes in Colorado, the million-dollar highway makes a loop through the San Juan Mountains, connecting historic towns and two national parks.

Beartooth Highway, Montana and Wyoming

This gorgeous highway takes you through the rocky wilderness and leads you to Yellowstone. Enjoy the breathtaking mountain views and hiking opportunities.

Park Loop Road, Maine This loop takes you along Acadia National Park, which is absolutely breathtaking. Take in the ocean breeze and luscious nature landscape.

21

VEGAN PASTA SALAD

WATERMELON TOMATO SALAD 15 MIN PREP 15 MIN COOKING 30 MIN READY IN

15 MIN

0 MIN

20 MIN

PREP

COOKING

READY IN

INGREDIENTS 3 heirloom tomatoes, sliced into wedges

5 c. cut watermelon (about 2-inch triangles) 1 thinly sliced jalapeño and/or a few Thai chiles

2 tbsp. Thai basil or regular basil 2 tbsp. toasted cashews 1/2 avocado, diced

Sea salt, to taste, if desired Lime wedges, for serving Dressing: 1 tbsp. tamari

2 tsp. fresh lime juice 2 tsp. rice vinegar

1 small garlic clove, minced loveandlemons.com

INGREDIENTS 1 c. haricots verts, sliced in half lengthwise and cut into 1-inch pieces 8 oz. short curly pasta

DIRECTIONS 1. Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil and place a bowl of ice water nearby. Blanch the haricots verts for 1 minute, then transfer to the ice water. Drain and pat dry.

2 medium yellow squash, spiralized or very thinly sliced

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Prepare the pasta according to the instructions on the package, cooking just past al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.

3/4 c. cooked navy beans, drained and rinsed

3. Make the dressing: In a small-medium bowl, whisk together the milk, tahini, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.

1 (14-oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and sliced into quarters 1 heaping cup halved cherry tomatoes 1/4 c. thinly sliced red onion

1/4 c. Kalamata olives, sliced in half 1/2 c. chopped parsley 1/2 c. chopped basil

2 tbsp. sunflower seeds

1/2 tsp. sea salt, more to taste

1/2 tsp. minced ginger

4. In a very large bowl, combine the pasta, haricots verts, yellow squash, artichoke hearts, navy beans, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and olives. Toss with the dressing. Mix in the parsley, basil, and sunflower seeds. Season to taste with more salt (I add ½ teaspoon).

5. Serve at room temperature or store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Season to taste before serving.

DIRECTIONS 1. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the tamari, lime juice, vinegar, garlic, and ginger.

2. Arrange the tomatoes, watermelon, and jalapeños on a platter or in a loveandlemons.com shallow bowl. (This salad should not be served in a deep bowl because the flavorful juices will sink to the bottom.) Drizzle with the dressing and top with the basil, cashews, and avocado. Season to taste and serve with lime wedges.

Dressing: 1/4 c. tahini

1/4 c. almond milk or water 2 tbsp. lemon juice

2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar 1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard 1/4 tsp. maple syrup 1/2 tsp. sea salt

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

22

23

PESTO CHICKEN CAPRESE SALAD 12 MIN PREP 7 MIN COOKING 20 MIN READY IN

GRILLED CAESAR SALAD 20 MIN

5 MIN

25 MIN

PREP

COOKING

READY IN

INGREDIENTS 1/4 c. mayonnaise

2 tbsp. lemon juice

1 tbsp. anchovy paste 1 tsp. dijon mustard

1/2 tsp. minced garlic 1/2 tsp. kosher salt

1/4 tsp. black pepper

1/2 c. extra-virgin olive oil plus more for brushing 1/4 c. parmesan cheese finely grated, plus more for garnish 2 hearts romaine 1 c. croutons

averiecooks.com

INGREDIENTS

Pesto: 1 c. tightly packed fresh basil leaves (about one 4-oz container) 1/4 c. pine nuts

1/4 c. freshly grated parmesan cheese 1 to 3 cloves garlic, to taste

1 tsp. lemon juice 1 tsp. kosher salt

1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper 1/3 to 1/2 c. Extra Virgin Olive Oil Chicken: 2 tbsp. Extra Virgin Olive Oil

1 1/4 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces 1/2 tsp. kosher salt

1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper 1/3 c. pesto

Caprese Salad: 1 1/2 c. cherry or grape tomatoes, halved if desired

1 (8-oz) container fresh mozzarella ‘pearls’ or small mozzarella balls, drained 10 fresh basil leaves, torn in half

1 to 2 tbsp. balsamic reduction or balsamic glaze for drizzling

24

DIRECTIONS Make the Pesto: 1. To the canister of a food processor fitted with the S-blade, add the basil, pine nuts, parmesan, garlic, lemon juice (helps pesto from oxidizing as quickly) salt, pepper, and blend on high speed momentarily to break ingredients down.

2. With the motor running, drizzle in the olive until the pesto is smooth and emulsified; set aside.

Make the Chicken: 1. To a large skillet, add the olive oil, chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook over medium-high heat; stir and flip intermittently so chicken cooks evenly.

2. When chicken is about 90% cooked through, add the pesto, stir to combine, reduce the heat to low, and allow the chicken to simmer in the pesto for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until chicken is done (internal temp of 165F).

Assemble the Caprese Salad: 1. To a large bowl, add the chicken including the pesto/pan juices, mozzarella, basil, evenly drizzle with balsamic, stir to combine, and serve immediately. Dish is best fresh.

DIRECTIONS 1. In a medium bowl whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, anchovy paste, mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.

2.Slowly whisk in olive oil until a thickened dressing is formed. Add the parmesan cheese and whisk to combine.

3. Cut romaine lettuce heads in quarters lengthwise leaving the cores intact. This will yield eight sections. If the lettuce head is small, keep it in halves.

therecipecritic.com

4. Brush olive oil on the cut sides of the lettuce. Lightly season with salt.

5. Preheat grill over medium-high heat (350 to 400ºF). Carefully grease the cooking grates with tongs using a paper towel dipped in oil.

6. Once the grates are hot, place the Romaine lettuce cut side down on the grill. Press the lettuce down so it creates direct contact with hot grates. Cook until lightly charred, 1 to 2 minutes.

7. Flip to the other cut side and grill 1 to 2 additional minutes. Transfer grilled lettuce to serving plates.

8. Drizzle with Caesar dressing and top with freshly cracked black, parmesan cheese, and crouton

25

MEDITERRANEAN PASTA SALAD 10 MIN PREP 15 MIN COOKING 15 MIN READY IN

WATERMELON CUCUMBER SALAD 20 MIN

0 MIN

20 MIN

PREP

COOKING

READY IN

INGREDIENTS 5 oz. arugula

1 (2lb) watermelon, or roughly 6 cups, cubed 1/2 English cucumber, sliced 6 oz. feta, crumbled 16 basil leaves

Poppyseed Dressing: 1/2 c. olive oil

3 tbsp. white balsamic vinegar 1 tsp. Dijon mustard 1 tbsp. honey 1/4 tsp. salt

2 tsp. poppy seeds

themodernproper.com

INGREDIENTS 1 lb. pasta cooked (al dente) 1 c. mixed olives, pitted 2 c. fresh arugula

1/2 c. fresh parsley leaves, chopped 1/4 of a red onion, minced 4 oz. crumbled feta

1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved 1 c. cucumbers, diced

1 c. hard salami, diced (optional) Mediterranean Dressing: 1 tsp. garlic powder 1 tsp. dried oregano 1 tsp. dried basil 1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 c. extra virgin olive oil 2 tbsp. red wine vinegar

DIRECTIONS 1. Whisk together the dressing ingredients in the bottom of a large salad bowl.

2. In the same bowl, toss the cooked (and cooled) pasta, olives, arugula**, parsley, red onion, cherry tomatoes, feta, cucumber, and salami (if using) with the homemade Italian dressing.

3. Serve immediately, or allow to chill in the refrigerator.

DIRECTIONS 1. Whisk the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, mustard and honey in a small bowl until emulsified. Add salt and poppy seeds, stir in salt and poppyseeds. Set aside.

2. Place arugula on a platter, cover with cucumbers and watermelon. Sprinkle with feta.

themodernproper.com

3. Make a stack out of the basil leaves. Roll them in either direction and thinly slice them to make ribbons. Toss evenly over the salad.

4. Drizzle with dressing. Enjoy!

26

27

Vacation Ideas

W

You Have to Try This

hile we still need to be cautious, you can still make traveling fun and safe this summer. We’ve gathered the top Vacation Ideas for you try out!

CAMPING TRIPS Camping trips can oftentimes be less expensive, due to not requiring a hotel, or a plane ticket (in most cases). After many quarantines, getting out in nature is a big hit. Make sure you plan appropriately and are equipped with the right gear!

ONE TANK TRIPS Getaways, or staycations that only require one tank of gas are a hit and relatively inexpensive. Spending time in a new environment may just be the perfect getaway. Research places in your state that are only a short distance away.

Summer

LONG ROAD TRIPS

There’s nothing like a trip on the open road. A lot of folks are opting for car travel this summer, to pass through multiple states, and see a lot of what our nation has to offer.

VACATION RENTAL STAYS Vacation rentals have become increasingly popular over the last few years, and with the majority of covid-19 restrictions being lifted, we have more flexibility to travel.

Oftentimes, renting a vacation home can be cheaper than a hotel and can provide a unique experience. Vacation rentals are a great way to be immersed in the atmosphere of your destination.

SMALL TOWN VISITS Small towns are typically full of history and can be very charming! They are fun to visit and can make for an awesome vacay. House Beautiful has compiled a list of some of the coolest small towns around the United States, read more here.

28

29

Refinance Benefits

A

s we move into the latter half of the year, questions about what’s to come are top of mind for buyers and sellers.

Near record-low mortgage rates coupled with rising home price appreciation kicked off a robust housing market in the first half of 2021, and we expect to see some of these trends continue. A cash out refinance can be an extremely effective strategy in these current market conditions.

Other experts remain optimistic about home prices, too. The graph below highlights 2021 home price forecasts from multiple industry leaders:

Although low rates are not completely gone and you may be able to snag one, homeowners in 2021 are taking advantage of the market impact on their home’s value.

In the past year, home values across the In this hot market, home values have United States increased 13.9% skyrocketed, and now is the time to tap into Joe Seydl, Senior Markets Economist at J.P. your equity! A cash-out refinance allows Morgan, projects home prices to continue you to do just that. rising as well, indicating buyers interested in purchasing a home should do so sooner WHAT IS A CASH-OUT REFINANCE? rather than later. Waiting for rates or home A Cash-Out Refinance is a type of mortgage prices to fall may not be wise: loans that allows you to tap into your equity.

Long story short you take out a larger loan (using the equity in your home), borrowing more than you owe on your mortgage and take home the difference. rates interest Homebuyers— though , w lo ly al ic or are still hist ing ing up. Hous they are inch ring the du d ike sp prices have but ne months, last six-to-ni fall to ct them we don’t expe e ar ey th ve lie be soon, and we u yo If g. keep risin more likely to w ne a se ha rc pu are looking to be ons now may home, conditi e. nc he s th on m better than 12

30

Experian provides a great example of how this scenario could work: Let’s say you have a $250,000 mortgage balance on a home worth $400,000. You need $20,000 to cover the cost of some home renovations, so with a cash-out refinance loan, you replace your $250,000 loan with a $270,000 loan and receive the $20,000 difference in cash.

WHAT’S THE STRATEGY BEHIND A CASH-OUT REFINANCE? THAT’S UP TO YOU! YOU COULD… • Consolidate / Pay Off Debt • Eliminate High Rate Credit Card Debt • Fund A Home Renovation • Finance Education • Invest (Portfolio, Rental Properties)

Backyard Party Essentials for

MARSHMALLOW ROASTING STICKS Stainless Steel metal, power welded, nontoxic forks ensure no rusting & safe roasting.

This telescoping retracting fork design is convenient for camping trips, fishing trips, backpacking, or home storage.

BITEFIGHTER LED STRING LIGHTS The only string light with proven mosquito repellency*

STAINLESS STEEL WHEELED COOLER W/DETACHABLE TUB • 80 qt. tub • 96-aluminum can capacity • Sleek, stainless steel cooler perfect for any occasion • Cooler tub is detachable for easy transportation and portability

Summer

TUMBLING TOWER GAME Oversized blocks come in a zippered canvas carrying bag so you can take this fun-filled game to outdoor parties and picnics.

WEBER ® DELUXE CHARCOAL GRILL The ultimate grilling experience.

Weber’s scaled-up version of their classic two-wheel kettle is crafted of premium-grade steel and clad in heavy-gauge, rust-resistant porcelain enamel in slate blue.

HANGING ROPE PATIO HAMMOCK CHAIR You’ll love to upgrade your seating arrangement to complement your bold, eclectic style with the Hanging Rope Hammock from Opalhouse™

31

Ultimate Charcuterie Board THE

GREEN OLIVES

1/3 C. DATES

CALABRESE

CABARET BUTTERY ORIGINAL CRACKERS

1 C. RED & GREEN GRAPES

GOUDA

1 C. RED & GREEN GRAPES

1/4 C. STONED GROUND MUSTARD

1/2 PEAR, THINLY SLICED

CASHEWS

1/2 C. BLUEBERRIES SALAMI

ALMONDS PROSCIUTTO CORNICHONS

1/2 C. ANY PRESERVES STILTON CHEESE MULTI-GRAIN SEA SALT

32

1/3 C. DRIED APRICOTS

GOAT CHEESE

1/2 RED APPLE, THINLY SLICED

AGED PROVOLONE

www.lemontreedwelling.com

GRISSINI BREADSTICKS 1/4 C. HONEY 1/2 C. STRAWBERRIES

TRISCUIT ORIGINAL

33

Why You

Need a

Word Search

PRE-APPROVAL

Y

ou may have been told that it’s important to get a pre-approval at the beginning of the homebuying process, but what does that really mean, and why is it so important?

Especially in today’s market, with rising home prices and high buyer competition, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your budget so you stand out to sellers as a serious homebuyer.

Being intentional and competitive are musts when buying a home right now.

Pre-approval from a lender is the only way to know your true price range and how much money you can borrow for your loan. Just as important, being able to present a pre-approval letter shows sellers you’re a qualified buyer, something that can really help you land your dream home in an ultra-competitive market.

With limited housing inventory, there are many more buyers active in the market than there are sellers, and that’s creating some serious competition. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), homes are receiving an average of 5.1 offers for sellers to consider. As a result, bidding wars are more and more common. Pre-approval gives you an advantage if you get into a multiple-offer scenario, and these days, it’s likely you will.

When a seller knows you’re qualified to buy the home, you’re in a better position to potentially win the bidding war.

34

FREDDIE MAC EXPLAINS: “By having a pre-approval letter from your lender, you’re telling the seller that you’re a serious buyer, and you’ve been preapproved for a mortgage by your lender for a specific dollar amount. In a true bidding war, your offer will likely get dropped if you don’t already have one.”

Every step you can take to gain an advantage as a buyer is crucial when today’s market is constantly changing. Interest rates are low, prices are going up, and lending institutions are regularly updating their standards.

You’re going to need guidance to navigate these waters, so it’s important to have a team of professionals such as a loan officer and a trusted real estate agent making sure you take the right steps and can show your qualifications as a buyer when you find a home to purchase.

U V L P Q F A T MO V Z UG K R T Z ON UDG S M J J V F C K J E DWS A S Q A L M B O S Q D C V G H A E B X S S O V Z R E UW J O V T V D R H C V Q U Z Q F Q T P I S T U I MU N Q Z K A F AM I L Y T I M E X P G X U U N R C Q S N J MQ T K Q I UG T N A Y K DQ J QO Z X P G J N R S S U E N S C D Y K I N N X Z R S UD V T K F Y R H L C S I E I E G R P Z X I W T D P G A R D E N I N GWV MO V A F T N G B L O T U R A A R MH G Y S E Y WG O V E BWH C S Y G Z T U J R D J S J P K E Y Y GGOOU T DOO R LW I Y S I RMH Z Y G E E UD Z O F A V S A L A D S HM E I V A Q Y U N X X E D J RW L A L T X R T L F UQ F K A N S F X T R I D Z GO V S AMD Y G C U MG E O T Y O N U J XWA O I WO U N J U N E U O F K X I T HMD S J QMD T M J Q R D I F WC G Z S U C O NW N M L R I G U E H NWO E O G GWV A C A T I O N Z S E N D NH R B H V RMG I Z Y MR K D V B T Z Y L Z F B V J S K A HW P MM Q I D D S N E A T G A D F D X T G Q L WM E Y F K M I Q G S P O T Q T A GWG V R F Z K J T Z C Z P I R C J B A NDN X K A B I A P H S A U T I WC F G I L Y V UGU F J S U MM E R T I M E B O X G A F F L WG J S E P T E M B E R Z G K V X Y S QW T SWO E W L D F L U I J B G D J WS X F Y S SWZWY Z G F A E A L R T E V E I H R F I H R K G S D S R C B K B R A S L U P Y D S T OQO F N K T GM I Y MA L U G N B Y G B J U T GWA R M I B Z U F O G C A S H O U T C M H D B F T K K M A U R WM B J D O C F U J F L OW E R S X M Y H B M B X A R O S A D D B I O E M A C HW T H B X N S X E Z Q C OO K OU T TWL J B H Z P UQMZM E U R OQD R R C F J R K U F K D B T Y Y K Z N I Y MB Q T H P Z Z X E P R P Z E OC B T R Q X I T V G AMK D B N J P E Y X T V R A R MOWV T S U D H I Y MQ G D E H O Q N Z T A Q X S N L Y G B GG EWK E A C E H V Y V Z S KWY S J H T F S Y VMS

WHY YOU NEED A PRE-APPROVAL:

JUNE

GRILLING

SUMMERTIME

ACTIVITIES

In a competitive market with low inventory, a pre-approval letter is a game-changing piece of the homebuying process. Not only does being preapproved bring clarity to your homebuying budget, but it shows sellers how serious you are about purchasing a home.

FAMILY TIME

DESSERT

GARDENING

VACATION

POOLSIDE

SALADS

MORTGAGE

CASH OUT

OUTDOOR

WARM

FLOWERS

COOKOUT

PLAYING

REFRESHING

SUMMER

FUN IN THE SUN

JULY

SEPTEMBER

HEAT

AUGUST 35

10

Tips to be

Summer is officially here and as the days get warmer, we are reminded of our planet and our growing responsibility to do what we can to protect it. That is why we created a list of 10 eco-friendly tips you can use to improve your sustainability and clean up your local environment.

1.

SUSTAINABLE PARTY PLANNING

As the world begins to reopen, there is no doubt that some are wanting to revamp their social lives.

However, even when health and safety precautions are taken, backyard parties can still drum up quite a bit of waste. From disposable utensils and dishware to food waste and grilling emissions, if you’re planning a backyard barbecue or an evening get together, it could come with a hefty environmental toll. But it doesn’t have to! Swap regular disposable utensils, plates, and cups with reusable or compostable ones. Be sure to repurpose your leftovers if you don’t eat them all and use an eco-friendly grill that uses sustainably sourced charcoal.

3.

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLES

Another big part of summer is staying active and staying hydrated. Americans alone throw away over 35 billion plastic water bottles every year. One way you can reduce that number is by using a reusable water bottle. If you choose the right kind, reusable bottles can be easier to carry around, more convenient, and some are even insulated for multi-purpose uses. There are thousands on the market, but the right bottle could dramatically reduce plastic waste in your area. Not to mention the benefits to your wallet of a one time purchase rather than continuously buying single use bottles, you are also more likely to stay hydrated. So, drink up!

5.

UNPLUG

2.

This Summer

EAT LOCAL

Our next tip can be a fun one! One way to reduce your carbon footprint is by eating locally sourced foods. When something is sourced locally, it takes less to transport it (a.k.a. less transportation emissions). So, pack up and head out to your local farmers market to pick up staple foods and produce. You also have the added benefit of supporting local business and your community.

However, just as important as knowing where your food is sourced is knowing how it is sourced. Be sure to check that the things you’re purchasing are being grown ethically and sustainably. For example, many meats, cheeses, and even coffee production lets off large amounts of emissions. If you’re looking to be extra aware of your footprint, possible consider reducing your intake of these kind of products.

4.

COMPOSTING AND GREEN GARDENING

Composting has become a huge trend in the past few years. People are growing to appreciate the benefits of the natural decomposition of food scraps and yard waste rather than throwing them away where they will no longer continue to serve a purpose. However, composting involves more than you might think. A successful compost pile requires certain types of martial, a particular environment, and lots of time. However, with patience, your compost pile could produce, natural, nutrient rich, pest resistant soil for all your plants that negate the need for chemical fertilizers. Be sure to check a reliable source for what you should and should not compost to prevent setbacks.

In a similar way, unplugging older or under used appliances can also dramatically reduce power consumption. When an electronic isn’t optimized for energy efficiency, it can create a greater draw leading to higher bills and an even worse environmental impact. It’s called the Vampire Effect and it’s sucking the life out of the environment and your wallet. Take time to research energy efficient options for all your Vampiric electronics, from your refrigerator to your cellphone charger. Not to mention, unplugging encourages better, deeper human connect with the important people in your life. Remember that even when they are turned off, many appliances still use small amounts of power so it’s better all-around to just unplug completely.

36

6.

WATER CONSERVATION

8.

SHOP SECOND HAND

With more than 35% of the United States currently in a drought, water conservation has become more important than ever. As populations rise, so do their demands on the water supply. That is why learning how to conserve water in your everyday activities is so important. In your journey to sustainability, there are certain steps you can take to reduce your water footprint: reduce the number of loads you run in your dish washer and washing machine; sweep your driveway rather than pressure washing it; be aware of how much water you’re using when you shower, brush your teeth, use the bathroom, etc. (hint: the tap doesn’t always need to be running!); and, as one of the biggest contributors to water waste, limit the number of times you water your lawn and research better strategies to reduce evaporation and run off. Another option to consider is creating a garden of native plants rather than maintaining a lawn. The natural growth rejuvenates the soil and collaborates with other local plants to create a healthy ecosystem of animals, foliage, and rainwater.

7.

COOL YOUR HOUSE NATURALLY

Another way to stay green is by reducing your energy usage in your home. One large draw on that usage is your air conditioning, and depending on where you live, the age of your house, and the time of year, you may be able to drastically reduce that amount. Step 1 is star keeping you blinds closed more often. Natural light can be wonderful, but it can also heat your home dramatically, so, when possible, draw your blinds or curtains to keep things cool. When it is an option, you should always try to invest in quality insulation. We all know the importance of keeping our homes insulated whether is warm or cold outside. And while that will keep the hot weather outside, you also need to consider what is giving off heat inside your home.

Limiting the use of a stove or oven and swapping out for new no-heat lightbulbs can target those primary heat-emanating sources.

Fast-fashion and human rights violations in the clothing industry have been big news. Not to mention the massive amounts of textile waste that come out of people’s purchasing habits. That is why so many environmental supporters are encouraging shoppers to check out secondhand shops. More often than not they’ll have unique, one-of-a-kind pieces and insanely low prices. By shopping second-hand, not only are you extending the life of a particular piece (or maybe completely transforming it if you have some sewing skills), but you are also reducing carbon emissions and water waste by keeping them out of landfills.

Styles change. There is no denying that. But shopping second hand is an opportunity to get creative with different fabrics, colors, and textures, all while saving the planet.

9.

GREEN TRANSPORTATION

When it comes to transportation and pollution, there is a bit of a sliding scale. Of course, walking and biking are by far the best options, with flying by plane having the worst effect on the environment. However, sometimes certain forms of transportation aren’t always an option for people in certain situations. For example, for someone living in a rural town, biking to the nearest grocery store. What matters is that you are making your best effort to reduce your footprint. Walk when you can, drive a little as possible, carpool with your coworkers, and push for safer and more available public transportation.

10.

VOLUNTEER

Finally, it may just be time for you to get your hands dirty. Volunteering to pick up your local neighborhood or beach goes a long way to repairing damage caused by unsustainable choices. Rolling up your sleeves and putting in hard work can be more fun than you think! Invite friends and family, even strangers, to help pick up trash and start cleaning up your local community. Gathering a cleanup party encourages more to get involved and learn about the importance of everyday sustainability. If we won’t care for our planet then nothing will ever be done. Nobody is perfect but doing what we can is better than doing nothing at all.

I hope this list is of use to you over the next few months.

Summer can be hot, but we can always take steps to keep things cool. There are plenty of easy, affordable ways you can do your part to save the planet.

37

STRAWBERRY ICEBOX CAKE 15 MIN PREP 4 HRS CHILL 4 HRS READY IN

RASPBERRY BLUEBERRY POPSICLES 1 HR 30 MIN

0 MIN

1 HR 30 MIN

PREP

COOKING

READY IN

INGREDIENTS 1 c. blackberries heaping 1 c. blueberries heaping

1 c. raspberries heaping 1/2 c. lime juice fresh 3 tbsp. honey

1/4 c. mint leaves

amandascookin.com

INGREDIENTS 2 c. heavy cream

1 /2c. powdered sugar 1 tsp. vanilla

1 lb. strawberries sliced

7.2 oz. graham crackers (1.5 sleeves)

DIRECTIONS 1. In a stand mixer or with a hand-held mixer, beat the cream, powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.

2. Place a very thin layer of cream on the bottom of a 9x9 square pan. Next, add a single layer of graham crackers. Top with 1/3 of the whipped cream and smooth with a spatula.

Add 1/3 of the strawberries in an even layer. Repeat layers 2 more times, ending with strawberries. Arrange the berries in a pretty pattern, if desired.

3. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

DIRECTIONS 1. In blender blend honey, lime, and mint leaving until well incorporated and mint is minced. Separate 2 tbs of syrup into three separate bowls.

2. In each bowl add a different berry with the syrup.

3. In blender blend each berry with its syrup in bowl until fruit is pureed. Return to bowl.

4. In popsicle mold add raspberry puree first to mold and return to freezer for 1530 minutes.

ohsodelicioso.com

5. Remove from freezer and add blueberry puree to popsicle and return to freezer for 15-30 minutes.

6. Remove from freezer and add blackberry puree to popsicle plus adding the popsicle stick at this time and return to freezer until completely frozen.

7. If course sugar is desired, remove popsicle from mold, splash a small section of popsicle with water, dip in sugar and return to freezer in air tight container until ready to eat.

38

39

NO-CHURN PINEAPPLE ICE CREAM 15 MIN PREP 0 MIN COOKING 8 HRS READY IN

FROZEN MOCHA TORTE 20 MIN

0 MIN

OVERNIGHT

PREP

COOKING

READY IN

INGREDIENTS 1 c. chocolate wafer crumbs 1/4 c. sugar

1/4 c. butter, melted

1 package (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened 1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk 2/3 c. chocolate syrup

2 tbsp. instant coffee granules 1 tbsp. hot water

1 c. heavy whipping cream, whipped Chocolate-covered coffee beans, optional

ovebakesgoodcakes.com

INGREDIENTS 2 c. heavy whipping cream 1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

1 can (16 oz.) canned crushed pineapple, drained

DIRECTIONS 1. In a large bowl, add the whipping cream. With a hand or stand mixer, beat on medium speed until soft peaks form, about 3-5 minutes.

2. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla. Beat to combine fully.

3. With a rubber spatula, stir in the crushed pineapple.

4. Pour the ice cream mixture into a freezer-safe dish, cover, and freeze for 6 to 8 hours or until frozen solid.

DIRECTIONS 1. In a small bowl, combine the wafer crumbs, sugar and butter. Press onto the bottom and 1 in. up the sides of a greased 9-in. springform pan; set aside. tasteofhome.com 2. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, milk and chocolate syrup until smooth. Dissolve coffee granules in hot water; add to cream cheese mixture. Fold in whipped cream. Pour over crust. Cover and freeze for 8 hours or overnight.

3. Remove from the freezer 10-15 minutes before serving. Carefully run a knife around edge of pan to loosen. Remove sides of pan. Garnish with coffee beans if desired.

40

41

Design, DIY & Recipes at: HomeByGeneva.com

NMLS #42056 BK # 0910215