HOME by GENEVA
Healthy Recipes to Start Your Year
Healthy Tips & Goals for 2022
Mortgage News & More
Enjoy these healthy recipes for the new year.
Get on track with your health and goals this year.
Equity & the outlook for housing this year.
A GENEVA FINANCIAL HOME LOANS PUBLICATION
EDITORIAL
Welcome The new year is here. Time to re-set, re-focus, and put those goals into place.
fter two years of living A through a global pandemic, we all have adjusted our lifestyles, mindsets, and attitudes towards the future. This year we hope to reset and revisit sustainable, natural, and peaceful living. At Home By Geneva, our mission is to continuously keep you up to date with the latest housing trends, D-I-Y, décor, and recipes to further your quality of life and home. Tap back into nature, take a deep breath, and appreciate the world around us. From natural color palettes to ecofriendly renovation projects,
we are bringing back the basics. Providing a source for all things home, we hope to declutter your life or your living room. Remember to keep moving forward, set boundaries, protect your peace, and work on building the best version of yourself. Fuel your body and mind with food and habits that nurture your soul. Create an oasis inside your home that brings you tranquility. And as always, be a good human. “If the world was a math class, we've spent too much time stuck on division. If we multiply love, add understanding and subtract hate, we'd all graduate to a higher level.”
James Polinori Geneva Financial CMO Editor Home By Geneva
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CONTENTS
In this issue
6
28
2022 Health
If you want to start feeling like your best self, try out our tips to ease your way into a more active lifestyle.
12
Healthy Substitutes
Tips on substituting for recipes.
Go Green The idea of living green has grown exponentially in popularity and in necessity over the last 50 years and it’s more prevalent today than it has ever been.
26
Re-imagining your Backyard
Shopping
Housing
Recipes
4
22
10
Color of the Year and decor
and more... 8
24
Homeowner Equity
28
Homeowners Guide to Greener Living
34
2022 Housing Outlook
38
Healthy Recipes Healthy Desserts
Start Off the New Year Right Bringing Nature into Your Home
3
Color of the Year 2022
Evergreen Fog
SW 9130
Coordinating Colors Neutral Ground
Dried Edamame
SW 9122
SW 7568
Urban Bronze
SW 7048
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Ethereal White
Accessible Beige
SW 7036
Shoji White
SW 6182
Uber Umber
SW 9107
SW 7041
Woven Wicker
SW 9104
Bakelite Gold
SW 6368
DÉCOR
Décor to Match
Need ideas to help decorate your home with 2022 color of the year?
OAKLEIGH WOOD 7-DRAWER DRESSER, HEIRLOOM WHEAT
BENTLEY ROUNDED RECTANGLE WALL MIRROR
MISTY MORNING TONAL PALETTE IN EASY GREENS
STUDIO VASE COLLECTION
COLOSSAL KNIT POUF, 20 X 18", OLIVE
MALIBU WOVEN BENCH
DOUGAN TV STAND FOR TVS UP TO 65"
DAMASK NATURAL GRAY INDOOR / OUTDOOR AREA RUG
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HEALTH
How to Enhance Your Health For 2022
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hether you’ve fallen into old habits, struggled with feeling groggy and sluggish, or just want to take proactive steps for the future, everyone has a different reason to get healthy. If you want to start feeling like your best self, try out our tips to ease your way into a more active lifestyle.
Visit Your Doctor
Step one to improving your health is through regular maintenance. See your doctor for regular checkups to discuss what you can do to treat current issues and prevent future health concerns for yourself and your family.
Get Moving
We’ve all heard it before but getting active is one surefire way to start feeling better in the long run. Start moving more; try out new active hobbies. No need to go crazy! The best motivation is when you enjoy what you’re doing.
Fix Up Your Diet
Don’t fall victim to crazy crash diets. Talk to your doctor about a meal plan that can last you a lifetime. Mindful eating, staying hydrated, and food education can be an excellent transition into healthy living.
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Support a Strong Mind
Mental health is just as important as physical health, and there is no denying they are both interconnected. Reducing stress, regulating your sleep schedule, and practicing introspection are just a few ways to bolster your mindset. At the end of the day, these are just a few examples of the changes you can make for a fresh start this year. Finding a progress partner to take this journey with you is a great way to keep you both on track. Don’t be afraid to take baby steps, even small changes can create a wave of difference.
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NEW YEAR
START OFF THE
NEW YEAR RIGHT The New Year is a time where often we make resolutions.
For many of us, we recognize the new year as the start of a fresh chapter.
We’ve gathered some helpful tips on how to ensure you start your year off right!
MAKING GOALS
EATING IN
If you are one that chooses to make goals, make sure they are attainable, and framed around a mindset rather than a specific goal. This helps take off the pressure of meeting certain goals, as well as feeling unsatisfied when those static goals are met.
This pandemic has made it easy, and convenient to eat out. If your goal is to focus on saving money by staying in and eating healthy–try focusing on making meals with whole foods, and dedicating one day a month to eating out!
One of the most important aspects of making goals is putting habits behind them that allow you to reach them. For example, if you have one overarching goal, set up daily, weekly and monthly habits that you need to adopt in order to accomplish that goal. Goals without habits are simply unattainable.
HEALTH-RELATED GOALS Perhaps focusing on your physical health is at the top of the list. Instead of setting a goal such as “lose 15 pounds” try a goal that sounds more like “I want to move my body every day, in a way that feels good to me” this will allow you to feel a sense of accomplishment each day as you move towards changing your life to adapt to that.
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ORGANIZE YOUR HOME Organizing your home can help you feel more at peace in your environment. Not sure where to start? Check out HomeByGeneva.com for tips on rearranging your home.
WORKSPACE REVAMP If you, like many of us, have been working remotely since the beginning of the pandemic, 660 days to be exact, it may be time to refresh your space. Click here for tips on rearranging your home office.
BE MORE GREEN Implementing ways to reduce our carbon footprint is of the utmost importance in this day and age, taking into consideration the current status of our climate. If you are looking for more ways to be green around your home, check out our Homeowners Guide to Greener Living.
GET YOUR FINANCES ON TRACK This is a broad statement and can be further defined depending on your situation. Maybe you want to work on increasing your credit score, perhaps you want to work on building your savings or paying off credit card debt. If the latter is your goal, a refinance might be a good strategy for you.
READ MORE Reading is a great way to further your knowledge and decrease stress. Instead of aiming to “read more” set a more measurable goal such as reading ten pages each night. Also, make sure you have a few books picked out to start, and an area to read them in.
BE A GOOD HUMAN This is a motto that we at Geneva Financial live by. Each of our dedicated employees strives each day to exhibit compassion, goodwill, empathy, and so much more. Decide what being a good human looks like to you, and see how you can incorporate it into your life. Maybe you want to volunteer more? Maybe you want to be more available to your friends and family. Whatever this may look like, map it out and keep it front of mind year-round.
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RECIPE
Caprese Zoodles
INGREDIENTS: 4 large zucchini
2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper 2 c. cherry tomatoes, halved 1 c. mozzarella balls, quartered if large
1/4 c. fresh basil leaves
2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
www.delish.com | ETHAN CALABRESE
DIRECTIONS: Using a spiralizer, create zoodles out of zucchini. Add zoodles to a large bowl, toss with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Let marinate 15 minutes. Add tomatoes, mozzarella and basil to zoodles and toss until combined. Drizzle with balsamic and serve.
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Bruschetta Grilled Chicken
RECIPE
INGREDIENTS: 4 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil Juice of 1 lemon, divided Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper 1 tsp. Italian seasoning or dried oregano
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
3 slicing tomatoes, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp. freshly chopped basil 4 slices mozzarella
Freshly grated Parmesan, for serving
www.delish.com | TIFFANY AZURE
DIRECTIONS: In a small bowl, combine oil, half the lemon juice, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and Italian seasoning (or oregano) and whisk to combine. Transfer to a large re-sealable bag along with chicken; seal and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Heat grill over medium-high then add chicken, discarding excess marinade. Grill until charred and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°, about 5 to 7 minutes per side. Meanwhile, combine tomatoes, garlic, basil, and remaining lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. While chicken is still on grill, top each breast with 1 slice mozzarella and cover until cheese is melted, 2 to 3 minutes. Top chicken with tomato mixture. Garnish with Parmesan and serve. 11
Healthy
Substitutes
F
ueling your body with the best in foundational foods is one of the most effective building blocks to a healthier lifestyle. It can be as easy as substituting a fat, salt, sugar, or calorie-heavy ingredient in some of your favorite dishes for something a little more balanced. Here are our top nutrient-packed ingredient substitutes that boost your diet without sacrificing on flavor!
WHOLE-GRAIN PRODUCTS
There are plenty of whole-grain products that can serve as healthier substitutes for white bread, flour, pasta and rice. These products contain the entire grain and deliver a variety of important nutrients.
GROUND TURKEY
Can be used an alternative for red meat. Turkey bacon also be used to replace pork bacon in many recipes, as it contains less fat and sodium than pork bacon.
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VANILLA, NUTMEG & CINNAMON These ingredients are full of sweetness. Use them in combination with less than the amount of sugar that you would normally use in a recipe; this way you can intensify the sweet flavour without using too much sugar.
GREEK YOGURT
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Greek yogurt is naturally sour and low-fat.
SPINACH, ARUGULA, KALE & WATERCRESS
UNSWEETENED APPLESAUCE, PUMPKIN PUREE & MASHED AVOCADO These options can replace butter in many recipes and meals to help reduce the amount of saturated fat you consume.
These dark leafy greens contain important nutrients that aren’t present in watery greens like iceberg lettuce or romaine.
AVOCADO
Avocado is a hearty alternative that provides creamy goodness and healthy fats for your heart. It can be used as a substitute for mayonnaise and butter.
Source: Based on information from Mayo Clinic and Go Red for Women.
HEALTH TIPS
For Recipes You can make many of your favorite recipes healthier by using lower-fat or nofat ingredients. These healthy substitutions can help you cut down on saturated or trans fats, while noticing little, if any, difference in taste.
For Snacks You can snack healthier by substituting snacks that are high in saturated fats and/ or trans fats with these sensible snacks: Instead of fried tortilla chips, enjoy baked tortilla chips.
Instead of whole milk (1 cup) use 1 cup fatfree or low-fat milk, plus one tablespoon of liquid vegetable oil.
Instead of regular potato or corn chips, enjoy pretzels or low-fat potato chips.
Instead of heavy cream (1 cup), use 1 cup evaporated skim milk or 1/2 cup low-fat yogurt and 1/2 cup plain low-fat unsalted cottage cheese.
Instead of high-fat cookies and crackers, enjoy fat-free or low-fat cookies, crackers (such as graham crackers, rice cakes, fig and other fruit bars, ginger snaps and molasses cookies).
Instead of sour cream, use low-fat unsalted cottage cheese plus low-fat or fat-free yogurt; or just use fat-free sour cream. Instead of cream cheese, use 4 tbsp. soft margarine (low in saturated fat and 0 grams trans fat) blended with 1 cup dry, unsalted low-fat cottage cheese; add a small amount of fat-free milk if needed. Instead of butter (1 tbsp.), use 1 tbsp. soft margarine (low in saturated fat and 0 grams trans fat) or 3/4 tbsp. liquid vegetable oil. Instead of unsweetened baking chocolate (1 ounce), use 3 tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder or carob powder plus 1 tbsp. vegetable oil or soft margarine; since carob is sweeter than cocoa, reduce the sugar in the recipe by 25%.
Instead of regular baked goods, enjoy baked goods, such as cookies, cakes and pies, and pie crusts made with unsaturated oil or soft margarines, egg whites or egg substitutes, and fat-free milk. Instead of devil’s food cake, enjoy angel food cake. Instead of ice cream bars, enjoy frozen fruit bars. Instead of pudding made with whole milk, enjoy pudding made with fat-free or lowfat milk. Instead of ice cream, enjoy sherbet, ice milk or frozen, fat-free or low-fat yogurt. Instead of a doughnut, enjoy a bagel or slice of toast.
Source: Based on information from www.heart.org
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RECIPE
Zucchini Lattice Lasagna
INGREDIENTS: 2 c. ricotta
1 c. freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for sprinkling 2 large eggs Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper 1 1/2 c. marinara
3 large zucchini, cut into wide strips using a Y peeler and drained on paper towels 3 c. shredded mozzarella
www.delish.com | PARK FEIERBACH
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350°
In a small bowl, stir together ricotta, Parmesan, and eggs and season the ricotta mixture with salt and pepper. Spread a thin layer of marinara in a baking dish and layer with two layers of zucchini noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella. For the final layer, make a zucchini lattice. Layer zucchini noodles side by side at a diagonal in the baking dish. Lift the bottom half of every other noodle and lay another zucchini noodle across diagonally. Repeat until top layer is full. Sprinkle with more Parmesan and season with salt and pepper. Bake until totally melty and zucchini is cooked through, 30 minutes. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing. 14
Taco Tomatoes
RECIPE
INGREDIENTS: 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil 3/4 lb. ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped 1 packet taco seasoning 4 large, ripe beefsteak tomatoes
1/2 c. shredded Mexican cheese blend
1/2 c. shredded iceberg lettuce 1/4 c. sour cream
www.delish.com | ETHAN CALABRESE
DIRECTIONS: In a large skillet over medium heat oil. Add onion and cook, stirring, until soft, 5 minutes. Add ground beef and taco seasoning. Cook, breaking up meat with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink, 8 minutes. Drain fat. Flip over tomatoes so they’re stem-side down and slice to make 6 wedges, being careful not to cut all the way through. Carefully spread open wedges. Divide taco meat among tomatoes, then top each with cheese, lettuce, and sour cream before serving.
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RECIPE
Chicken Taco Avocados
INGREDIENTS: FOR THE FILLING
1 c. black beans, cooked 1 c. canned corn
1 4-oz. can green chiles, divided 1 c. shredded rotisserie chicken
1 c. shredded Cheddar, plus more for topping 1 package taco seasoning 2 tbsp. fresh cilantro, plus more for topping 3 ripe avocados
FOR THE DRESSING
1 c. ranch dressing 1/4 c. lime juice
1 tbsp. fresh cilantro 1 tsp. kosher salt
1 tsp. fresh ground black pepper www.delish.com | CHELSEA LUPKIN
DIRECTIONS:
Heat broiler
In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn, 1/2 can green chiles, shredded chicken, Cheddar, taco seasoning, and fresh cilantro. Stir until combined. Halve and separate three avocados, removing pit and hollowing out insides. Mash insides in a small bowl and set aside. Place avocado boats face up and fill each with 1/3 cup of filling. Sprinkle with more Cheddar and more fresh cilantro, then broil until cheese is melty, about 2 minutes. Make dressing: In a medium bowl, combine ranch dressing, lime juice, remaining green chiles, cilantro, salt, and pepper and stir to combine. Fold in mashed avocados and mix until smooth. Remove avocado boats from oven and transfer to serving dish. Drizzle with dressing and garnish with more cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately. 16
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken & Green Beans Skillet
RECIPE
INGREDIENTS: 3 – 6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs 1 lb. green beans, trimmed 3 tbsp. butter, divided or 4 garlic cloves, minced 1 tsp. paprika
1 tsp. onion powder
1/4 tsp. salt & fresh cracked black pepper Juice of 1/2 lemon + lemon slices, for garnish 1/2 c. chicken stock 1 tbsp hot sauce
1/4 tsp. crushed red chili pepper flakes, optional
1/2 c. fresh chopped parsley
www.eatwell101.com
DIRECTIONS: In a small bowl, combine onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Season chicken thighs generously with the spice mixture. Set aside while you prepare green beans. Arrange green beans in a microwave-safe dish with 1/2 cup (125ml) water. Cook in the microwave for 8-10 minutes, until almost done but still crisp. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Lay the seasoned chicken thighs in one layer in the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes then flip and cook another 5-6 minutes, until cooked through and a cooking thermometer displays 165°F (75°C). Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside. In the same skillet, lower the heat and melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add chopped parsley, garlic, hot sauce, red crushed chili pepper flakes, and pre-cooked green beans and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring regularly, until cooked to your liking. Add lemon juice and chicken stock and reduce the sauce for a couple of minutes, until slightly thickened. Push green beans to the side and add cooked chicken thighs back to the pan and reheat quickly. Adjust seasoning with pepper and serve the lemon garlic butter chicken thighs immediately, garnished with more crushed chili pepper, fresh parsley, and a slice of lemon if you like. 17
RECIPE
15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Cauliflower Rice
INGREDIENTS: 2 large boneless and skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally to make 4 1/2 c. fresh Parmesan, finely grated
Salt and fresh cracked black pepper 2 large cloves garlic, grated 1 tsp. paprika
1 tsp. Italian seasoning
4 tbsp. unsalted butter, divided 1 head cauliflower, riced
1/2 c. white onion, chopped
2 large cloves garlic, minced 2 tbsp. vegetable stock
Juice of one lemon (+ zest, if you like) Red chili pepper flakes, optional 1/4 c. fresh parsley, chopped www.eatwell101.com
DIRECTIONS: Chicken:
In a shallow plate, combine Parmesan cheese, grated garlic, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper; dredge in the Parmesan mixture; shake off excess and set aside. In a large non-stick skillet melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Cook chicken cutlets until golden on each side and cooked through – about 3-4 minutes for each side, depending on the thickness of your chicken cutlets. Transfer to a plate. Cauliflower rice:
In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Fry the garlic and onion for 1 minute until fragrant — be careful not to burn. Add the riced cauliflower to the skillet and stir to mix everything together well and coat in melted butter. Cook, stirring regularly for 1 minute. Stir in the 2 tablespoons vegetable stock, about half the parsley, and lemon zest (if using). Cook the cauliflower rice for one minute to reduce juices then add the lemon juice and a few sprinkles of leftover Parmesan cheese, if you like. Adjust seasoning as needed. Stir in the remaining parsley. Return chicken breasts over cauliflower rice and reheat quickly. Serve your Parmesan chicken with fresh cracked black pepper, red chili pepper flakes, and more Parmesan.
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Sweet & Sour Cashew Stir-Fry
RECIPE
INGREDIENTS: FOR THE CASHEWS 1 tbsp. peanut oil 1 c. whole raw cashews 1 tbsp. low-sodium soy sauce 1 tbsp. rice wine vinegar 1 tbsp. Sriracha 1 tbsp. cornstarch FOR THE STIR-FRY 1 tbsp. peanut oil 5 large cloves garlic, halved 1" piece ginger, peeled an thinly slivered 1 small red onion, sliced into wedges 2 bell peppers, thinly sliced 3/4 c. fried tofu puffs (optional) 2 tbsp. low-sodium soy sauce 2 tbsp. rice wine vinegar 1 tbsp. Sriracha 2 tbsp. packed brown sugar 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper 2 green onions, thinly sliced 1 to 2 tbsp. water, as needed 1 tsp. toasted sesame oil Sesame seeds, for garnish Cooked rice, for serving www.delish.com | JUNE XIE
DIRECTIONS: Make the cashews:
In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add cashews and toast, stirring frequently, until golden and very lightly charred, about 4 minutes. Transfer to a medium bowl and immediately add in soy sauce, vinegar, Sriracha, and let sit for at least 10 minutes. Drain and reserve any remaining marinade, then sprinkle cornstarch into drained cashews and toss to coat evenly. Return skillet to medium heat and heat 1 tablespoon oil. Add cashews to pan and sear, tossing frequently, until golden, about 4 minutes. Transfer cashews to a bowl. Make the stir-fry:
Return skillet to medium heat and heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Add garlic, ginger, onions, peppers, and tofu, and cook until soft and fragrant, about 6 minutes. Add in reserved marinade, soy sauce, vinegar, Sriracha, sugar, black pepper, and green onions, adding water gradually as needed to loosen the sauce. Cook until thickened and syrupy, 3 to 4 minutes. Add in sesame oil and cooked cashews, then remove from heat and toss to combine. Garnish with sesame seeds and more green onions before serving, with rice if desired.
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RECIPE
Magic Breakfast Cookies
INGREDIENTS: 1/2 c. unsweetened applesauce 1/3 c. creamy peanut butter or creamy almond butter 1/2 c. pure maple syrup
3 c. Old Fashioned rolled oats 1 tsp. baking powder 2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. kosher salt 1/4 c. raisins
www.delish.com | PARK FEIERBACH
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350°
Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, mix together the applesauce, maple syrup, and peanut butter. Stir in the oats, baking powder, cinnamon and salt and mix very well to combine into a dough. Add the raisins and stir until combined. The dough will be wetter than you expect, but it’s as intended. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out 1/4-cup portions of dough and use the palm of your hand to gently shape it into a cookie to about 3/4-inch thick. Place it on the prepared baking sheet. Again, the dough will be wetter than a normal cookie dough. Repeat to make 11 ¼ cup sized cookies or 12 slightly smaller cookies. Press a few extra raisins into the tops of any cookies that seem sparse. Bake until the cookies are golden and firm, about 20 to 25 minutes. Let cool on the pan 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack and cool to room temperature, about 20 minutes. 20
Best Green Smoothie
RECIPE
INGREDIENTS: 1 c. fresh spinach 1 c. water
1/2 c. pineapple (frozen ) 1/2 c. mango (frozen) 1 banana
1 serving Protein Smoothie Boost (optional)
www.delish.com | ETHAN CALABRESE
DIRECTIONS: Measure tightly pack spinach in a measuring cup. Put spinach to blender with water. Blend together until all chunks are gone. (Should resemble green water when blended well). Toss pineapple, mango and banana to blender. You can use frozen pineapple and mangos to chill the smoothie down and save time cutting and prepping. Blend it all together until smooth and creamy. Depending on your blender, this could take as little as 30 seconds or as long as 2 minutes. Pour into a glass and serve immediately. Store in the fridge with a lid until ready to drink.
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The Average Homeowner Gained
$56,700 IN EQUITY Over The Past Year
hen you think of homeownership, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Chances are you might focus on the nonfinancial benefits, like the security or stability a home provides. But what about equity? While it can be overlooked, a homeowner’s equity helps build long-term wealth over time. Here’s a look at what equity is and why it matters.
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For a homeowner, your equity is the current value of your home minus what you owe on the loan. So, as home values climb, your equity does too. That’s exactly what’s happening today. There aren’t enough homes on the market to meet buyer demand, so bidding wars and multiple offers are driving prices up. That’s because people are willing to pay more to buy a home. Right now, this low supply and high demand are giving current homeowners a significant equity boost. 22
Dr. Frank Nothaft, Chief Economist at CoreLogic, explains it like this: “Home price growth is the principal driver of home equity creation. The CoreLogic Home Price Index reported home prices were up 17.7% for the past 12 months ending September, spurring the record gains in home equity wealth.” To find out just how much rising home values have impacted equity, we turn to the latest Homeowner Equity Insights from CoreLogic. According to that report, the average homeowner’s equity has grown by $56,700 over the last 12 months. Curious how your state stacks up? Check out the map to the right to find out the average equity gain for your area.
HOUSING
BOTTOM LINE Whether you’re a current homeowner or you’re ready to become one, it’s important to know how equity works and why it matters. If this inspires you to make a move, connect with a loan officer today to explore your options and find out what steps you need to take next.
How Rising EQUITY IMPACTS
You
If you’re already a homeowner, equity not only builds your wealth, it also opens doors for you to achieve your goals. It works like this: when you sell your house, the equity you built up comes back to you in the sale. You can use those proceeds to fuel your next move, especially if you’ve decided your needs have changed and you’re looking for something new. If you’re thinking about becoming a homeowner, understanding the importance of equity can help you realize why homeownership is a worthwhile goal. It builds your wealth and gives you peace of mind that your investment is a wise one, not just from a lifestyle perspective, but from a financial one too.
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Bringing Nature
INTO YOUR HOME
hether you were working from home, taking online classes, or most anything else, we’ve all had plenty of reasons to be locked inside this past year. If you’ve been feeling cooped up, getting a healthy dose of nature in your home might be just what you need to refresh yourself. Check out our list of unique and fun ways to bring nature into your home for the new year.
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GREEN DECOR A tried and true choice, adding a few new house plants could breathe life back into your decor with the sights and smells of the great outdoors. Prefer more practical plants? A small, sustainable herb garden could cultivate your green thumb and freshen up your homemade dishes. And if you’re finding yourself a little short on square footage, a vertical garden can bring all the enjoyment of the outdoors without compromising on space. 24
GLASSWARE Glassware can be a fun way to show off all the unique intricacies and ecosystems that nature has to offer while still protecting its integrity. From mason jars to coffee pots, glass terrariums provide different plant styles, designs, and sizes for nearly everyone. If you are short on space or even natural light, the self-sustaining aspect of terrariums is perfect for the nature lover on the go. Not a plant person? Another idea for incorporating nature into your home is as easy as putting your favorite sea glass into a jar or gemstone collection on display.
FINAL THOUGHTS
NATURAL WOOD If you have concerns about allergies or just like the look of natural wood, incorporating wood furniture, art, or even wall paneling can give the appearance of the outdoors without the hassle. Either polished or natural wood with all different finishes can suit your style and give your space a one-of-a-kind look.
NATURAL COLORS If you’re looking to start small, adding natural colors through paint shades, fabrics, and decor can be an easy introduction. But be careful, it could also be the path to a major home improvement. Splashes of plant patterns or natural fabrics can be the final touch that brings it all together.
Sometimes the best way to bring nature into your home is by inviting it in. Open your windows, fresh air and natural light are sure to brighten up your home and your year. And you don’t have to stop with your indoor living space. Yards, porches, and patios can be an excellent opportunity for a little extra outdoor creativity. Add water elements, outdoor plants, or even unique design approaches for a relaxing place to unwind and refresh.
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REMODEL
our backyard can be one of your most versatile spaces. It’s where your kids grow up, where you host parties, where you find a little solitude. But for many, the backyard ends up being a bare patch of grass and nothing more. That is why we put together a list of some of the most effective backyard redesigns for anyone’s lifestyle.
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FOR CAMPERS Love the great outdoors but want to set up camp a little closer to home? The right landscaping 26
with a semi-permanent yurt tent or a few comfortable hammocks could get you sleeping under the stars in style. And don’t forget a cozy campfire for all your marshmallow toasting needs. This portable NOMAD grill and smoker will be an excellent camping companion.
FOR ENTERTAINERS If your backyard is where people come together, then setting up the perfect entertainment space is a must. A sleek
new outdoor kitchen, wet bar, or even a wood fire pizza oven could be just the conversation starters you need to keep the party going. Don’t forget to hang weatherproof lighting or tiki torches around your seating area for some additional ambiance.
FOR GREEN THUMBS If greenery is your thing, gardens are a great go-to option for livening up your outdoor space. Flower gardens can provide a muchneeded pop of color and pleasant natural scents to keep your space looking and smelling its best. Have a taste for simplicity? Japanese gardens create a sense of serenity and calm outside of your hectic day-to-day. Get back what you put in with an herb garden, and use your yields to create fun new dishes.
FOR THOSE SHORT ON SPACE Short on space? Don’t worry, you don’t have to miss out on any big ideas for your tiny yard. Adding dimension by incorporating levels, separating the space with hedges or other partitions, and using mirrors can give the illusion of a larger space. Make total use of your yard by building in your furniture and adding vertical or tiered gardens to save on square footage. And keeping a cohesive style in the interior and exterior of your home can blur the lines and make the space appear much larger.
FOR ENVIRONMENTALISTS Planning a yard that’s planetfriendly? Starting a small compost, introducing a rain barrel for harvesting rainwater, and laying artificial turf can help you significantly reduce your waste. Planting native plant species is a great way to support your natural ecosystem and prevent the spread of invasive organisms. Reduce your electricity consumption with solar lighting and other planet-friendly technology.
FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART No matter your age, these ideas are for people who love to have fun! An in ground pool with colorful pool tiles is perfect for warm summer days with friends. Pair that with a pool slide reminiscent of slide rock and a few fun pool floats and it’s sure to be a work of art. Installing a tree house can bring back the adventure of your childhood and, with a few alterations, make it the perfect space for adults still young at heart.
FINAL THOUGHTS Your backyard should be a representation of your lifestyle and how you want to use the space. Renovating your yard doesn’t have to be expensive but don’t let valuable square footage go to waste. Try out a few of these unique new renovation ideas and find your design!
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Homeowners Guide to Greener Living T
he idea of living green has grown exponentially in popularity and in necessity over the last 50 years and it’s more prevalent today than it has ever been. So, what can you do to make your home and your life a little better for the planet?
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO HAVE AN ECO-FRIENDLY HOME?
In the past, using fossil fuels to power our living spaces was the accepted practice for most homeowners. However, now we have seen what this has done to contribute to climate change and to damaging the environment.
An eco-friendly home is designed to combat that and cause as little of an impact as possible. Using natural materials, reducing waste, and making climate-conscious decisions in your day-to-day life is what having an eco-friendly home is all about.
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WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
Okay, so an eco-friendly home is good for the environment, but what does that mean for you as a homeowner? You spend so much time in your home and the idea of renovating it to be more eco-friendly can be intimidating. But there are more benefits to an eco-friendly home than being climate-conscious.
Benefits:
Energy savings
Low maintenance Personal health Durability
Investment Value
HOUSING
CERTIFICATIONS TO LOOK FOR
Non-profit and government certifications can be an excellent way to ensure your home is upholding the highest standards in green living. These are some of the best overall certifications that have the potential to add value to your home and to your life. LEED: (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) The LEED certification program is the most widely recognized global standard for eco-friendly building both residential and commercial. Using attribute points to determine level, a LEED certification will set your home apart, regardless of building stage or status. Energy Star: A widely recognizeable stamp, Energy Star stands out as a superior standard for the energy efficiency of home electronics such as light bulbs, kitchen appliances, and even heating and cooling implements. Ensuring your home is energy efficient using their Zero Energy Ready Homes program is better for the planet and your wallet. NGBS: (National Green Building Standard) A certification through NGBS addresses 6 key areas of potential inefficiencies and provides a guideline for how to develop a green home from start to finish. NGBS is also the only green building rating system to be approved as an American National standard for residential properties. There are countless other certifications you can apply for that assess issues of energy efficiency, air purity, water usage, materials, and more. Speak with a specialist to determine which could be right for your situation.
ECO-FRIENDLY HOME SWAPS
Looking to get started on transforming your home with a few simple eco-friendly home swaps? These changes are an excellent first step toward total sustainability. Double Glazed Windows: These dual-paned windows provide additional insulation to protect your home from tempurature fluctuations and regulate energy output used day-to-day. If you want to go a step further, look into manufacturers that use recycled materials for both the windows and the frames. Hydro-efficient Toilets: Toilets can be a huge water waster so investing in a toilet that uses velocity rather than volume can save you a bunch in the long run. Plus, if you’re living in an area experiencing a drought, you’ll be making a positive contribution to water conservation. Solar Water Heater: Solar energy is one of the most energy efficient ways to power a water heater. And with easy installation and low maintenance costs, a solar powered water heater may be an excellent choice for your household. Energy-saving Lightbulbs: If you have still yet to update your old incandecents, it may be time to swap to energy-saving LED. Though the higher upfront cost may be a deterent, the long lifespan and lower energy bills more than make up for it over time.
Air Purifier: Depending on the brand, a quality air purifier can be good for your health and the planet. The machine filters out most air pollutants, dust particles, smoke, odors, and more. If you’re thinking more compact, a small pouch of activated charcoal is an excellent allnatural substitute and is easily portable. Smart Thermostat: This thermostat uses smart technology to track your preferences and regulate temperature to suit your lifestyle. You still have total control 24/7, but installing a smart thermostat can help you reduce energy use at peak times or when you are out of the house, all from your cell phone.
GREEN LIFE
But appliances aren’t the only changes you can make. Here are some day-to-day switches you can make to start living that green life. Rethink Recycling: This might seem basic, but consider recycling old things you may not use any more and DIYing them into something brand new like piecing together old clothes or turn them into dish rags. Using recycled materials for things like furniture, art, and glassware can reduce what we consume and refresh the life span of our old stuff. Clean Cleaner: So many household cleaners use harsh chemicals that expel dangerous pollutants that may be detrimental to your health and the environment. Not everyone can afford store bought natural cleaners but using things in your pantry like baking soda, white vinegar, and lemon juice can be a natural, effective, and affordable alternative. Purifying Plants: Incorporating certain types of houseplants into your decor can automatically create a free air purifying ecosystem, reducing air pollutants and potential energy costs. Plus, it is always nice to add some greenery and bring a little nature back into your home. Concious Clothing: Clothing in general has been a hot topic in the sustainability sphere, from fast fashion to water waste. To do your part in reducing that negative impact, we suggest reusing, donating, or swapping clothes with friends when you can. At home, washing them in cold water can lower energy usage and skipping the dryer altogether can make a huge difference Better Backyard: Whether your yard is large or small, making targeted changes can help you make an impact on the environment in a positive way. Starting a small compost, introducing a rain barrel for harvesting rainwater, and laying artificial turf rather than trying to continuously water a lawn can significantly reduce your waste. Want to skip the classic yard altogether? Consider planting herbs or native plants to support your local ecosystem.
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RECIPE
Healthy Breakfast Burrito
INGREDIENTS: 1 lb. small round yellow potatoes, cut into ½ inch pieces
Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
Pinches of red pepper flakes 1 red bell pepper
3 12-inch tortillas 1 c. fresh spinach
1/2 c. shredded red cabbage, optional, for color and crunch 9 scrambled eggs
3/4 c. cooked black beans, drained and rinsed 1/2 c. pico de gallo 1 ripe avocado
1 c. cilantro leaves
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 lime, for squeezing
www.delish.com | PARK FEIERBACH
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 425°
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the potatoes onto the sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper, the smoked paprika, and pinches of red pepper flakes. Toss to coat, spread evenly on the pan, and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown and crisp around the edges. Heat a grill pan on the stove to medium heat. Place the red pepper on the pan and let it char for 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until the pepper is soft and each side has black grill marks. Alternatively, you can roast it in the oven until soft. Remove from the grill, remove the stem and ribbing, and slice the pepper into strips. Assemble the burritos: Divide the spinach leaves and red cabbage, if using, among the tortillas. Top with the scrambled eggs, red pepper strips, black beans, pico de gallo, potatoes, avocado, and cilantro. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and a squeeze of lime. Fold the left and right sides of the tortilla over the filling. Fold the bottom flap of the burrito up and over the filling, tucking the sides and the filling as you roll the burrito. Wrap in foil, slice, and serve with Cilantro Lime Dressing for dipping. 30
Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes
RECIPE
INGREDIENTS: 2 large sweet potatoes Butter or ghee Sea salt
4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped 4 small eggs
Freshly ground pepper Chives
www.theorganickitchen.org
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 400°
Place foil in bottom of oven to catch potato drippings. Pierce potatoes with a fork. Use a paper towel to LIGHTLY coat skin of each potato with butter or olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place potatoes on oven rack and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a fork goes in easily. While potatoes bake, cook bacon, set on paper towels to drain, chop. Remove potatoes from oven and place on a parchment paper covered cookie sheet. Carefully cut in half lengthwise. Use your knife to make slits in the center of each half. Add as much butter/ghee as you like and mash with a fork. Use the back of a spoon to create a crater in each potato, sprinkle with half of the bacon. Gently crack an egg into each potato half. Place back in the oven for 10 minutes. Whites should be solid, yolks soft. Remove from oven. Sprinkle with sea salt, pepper, the rest of the bacon and chives. Serve. 31
RECIPE
Cauliflower Pizza Crust
INGREDIENTS: 1 large head cauliflower, roughly chopped 1 large egg
2 c. shredded mozzarella, divided
1/2 c. freshly grated Parmesan, divided Kosher salt
1/4 c. marinara or pizza sauce 2 cloves garlic, minced
1 c. grape or cherry tomatoes, halved Torn fresh basil, for serving
Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
www.delish.com | PARK FEIERBACH
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 425°
In a large skillet, bring about 1/4" water to a boil. Season with salt. Add cauliflower in one even layer and cook until crisp-tender, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer to a clean dish towel (or paper towels) and squeeze to drain water. Add drained cauliflower to food processor and pulse until grated. Drain excess water in paper towels. Transfer drained cauliflower to a large bowl and add egg, 1 cup mozzarella and 1/4 cup Parmesan, then season with salt. Transfer dough to a baking sheet lined with cooking spray and pat into a crust. Bake until golden and dried out, 20 minutes. Top crust with marinara, remaining mozzarella and Parm, garlic and tomatoes and bake until cheese is melted and crust is crisp, 10 minutes more. Garnish with basil and drizzle with balsamic glaze. 32
Honey Garlic Salmon
RECIPE
INGREDIENTS: 1 lb. salmon fillet 1/2 c. honey
4 cloves garlic, minced or crushed through a garlic press
1/2 c whole-grain Dijon mustard Juice of 1/2 lemon 1 tbsp. olive oil
1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes 1/4 tsp. Cayenne pepper 1/2 tsp. paprika
Coarse salt and black pepper 1 tbsp. chopped cilantro, for garnish 1 lemon, sliced, for garnish
www.eatwell101.com
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 400°
Line a baking sheet with a large piece of foil to fold over and seal to create a packet. In a bowl, combine honey, mustard, lemon juice, garlic, oil, paprika, red pepper flakes, Cayenne pepper and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine and set aside. Place the salmon onto the lined baking sheet. Pour the honey mustard mixture over the salmon, and spread evenly over the fish. Sprinkle with a good amount of salt and cracked pepper. Fold the sides of the foil over the salmon to cover and completely seal the packet closed so the sauce does not leak. Bake salmon in foil until cooked through, about 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fish and your preference of doneness. Carefully open the foil, and broil under the broiler for 2-3 minutes on medium heat to caramelize the top of salmon. Garnish the baked honey garlic salmon with cilantro and serve immediately with lemon slices.
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HOUSING OUTLOOK 2022
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HOUSING
s we move into 2022, both buyers and sellers are wondering, what’s next? Will there be more homes available to buy? Will prices keep climbing? How high will mortgage rates go? For the answer to those questions and more, we turn to the experts. Here’s a look at what they say we can expect in 2022.
A
“Consensus forecasts put rates at about 3.7% by the end of next year. So, that’s still historically low, but certainly higher than they are today.” Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist, First American
“With more housing inventory to hit the market, the intense multiple offers will start to ease. Home prices will continue to rise but at a slower pace.” Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist, National Association of Realtors (NAR)
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR BUYERS?
Hope is on the horizon for 2022. You should see your options grow as more homes are listed and some of the peak intensity of buyer competition starts to ease. Just remember, rising rates and prices are a great motivator for you to find the home of your dreams sooner rather than later so you can buy while today’s affordability is still in your favor. What Does This Mean For Homeowners: Rates are on the rise, with predictions displayed below:
“We also expect a growing number of homeowners to bring properties to market, taking some pressure off high prices and offering buyers more options.” George Ratiu, Manager of Economic Research, realtor.com
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR SELLERS?
Make no mistake – this sellers’ market will remain in 2022 as home prices are projected to continue climbing, just at a more moderate pace. Selling your house while buyer demand is so high will truly put you in the driver’s seat. But don’t wait too long. With more listings projected to become available, your ideal window of opportunity to stand out from the crowd won’t last forever. Work with an agent who knows your local market and current inventory conditions to ensure you have the support you need to make an educated and informed decision about selling in the coming year.
Is Refinance an Option for You?
ven though rates are going up, there is still a huge opportunity to refinance. Depending on your goals you can refinance to lower your rate and monthly mortgage payment or utilize a cash-out refinance.
E
WHAT’S THE STRATEGY BEHIND A CASH-OUT REFINANCE? • Consolidate / Pay Off Debt • Eliminate High Rate Credit Card Debt • Fund A Home Renovation • Finance Education • Invest (Portfolio, Rental Properties)
Not only can equity benefit you in terms of a refinance, but it can be a great tool to have on your side if you are looking to move to a larger home or change locations. Whether you are looking to purchase a home, sell your own home, or refinance your mortgage acting now is the smartest move! 35
RECIPE
Bacon Egg & Spinach Fried Rice
INGREDIENTS: 1 tbsp. oil
3 large eggs, beaten
8 oz. lean bacon, cut into small pieces
2 c. chopped fresh spinach
1 medium onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, finely minced 5 c. cooked rice, cooled and fluffed 1 tsp. salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste 1/4 tsp. sugar, optional 3 tsp. soy sauce
Sriracha sauce, for drizzling (optional) 2 scallions, chopped
www.eatwell101.com
DIRECTIONS: Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat and add beaten eggs. Scramble the eggs gently and set aside. Add the bacon pieces to the same skillet and cook until crisp. Remove and set aside along with the scrambled eggs. To the same skillet, add the chopped spinach and stir-fry for a couple of minutes, until it starts to wilt. Remove and set aside with eggs and bacon. Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet and stir-fry until translucent. Add the cooked rice and stir-fry for 2 minutes. Use a spatula to flatten out and break up any clumps. Add salt, sugar (if using), and soy sauce. Give everything a good stir for a couple minutes more, until steam starts coming off the rice. If rice is a little dry, you can sprinkle in some water or chicken stock. Finally, stir in the scrambled eggs, bacon, and spinach. Season with black pepper, drizzle with Sriracha and garnish with scallions. Serve immediately, enjoy! 36
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
RECIPE
INGREDIENTS: 1 lb. raw medium shrimp, peeled and deveined 4 medium zucchini 1 tbsp. olive oil
4 tbsp. softened butter, or ghee, divided
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
Pinch of red pepper flakes Juice of 1/2 fresh lemon
1/4 c. chicken or vegetable stock (or white wine) Hot sauce of your choice, to taste
Salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste 1/4 c. chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
www.eatwell101.com
DIRECTIONS: Wash and trim the ends of the zucchini. Make the zucchini pasta using a spiralizer or julienne peeler and set aside. Heat 1 tablespoon oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in one layer and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook shrimp for one minute without stirring, so the bottom of the shrimps get slightly browned. Add the chopped garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes and then stir the shrimp for another minute or two to cook shrimp the other side. Transfer the grilled shrimp to a shallow plate. In the same pan, add remaining butter, lemon juice, chicken or vegetable stock, and hot sauce to the pan. Bring the sauce to a simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring regularly. Stir in the zucchini noodles and cook until done, about 2 minutes, stirring regularly. Allow the sauce to reduce a bit if it’s too watery. Add the grilled shrimp back to the pan and stir for another minute. Serve immediately your shrimp zucchini noodles with lemon slices, extra parsley, and pepper. 37
RECIPE
Philadelphia No Bake Cheesecake with Easy Oat Crust
INGREDIENTS: CHEESECAKE FILLING
10 oz. Philadelphia cream cheese 1 tbsp. honey 1 tsp. vanilla
HEALTHY OAT CRUST: 1 c. oats
1 tbsp. coconut oil 1 tsp. cinnamon 1 tsp. honey
www.delish.com | PARK FEIERBACH
DIRECTIONS: Mix the ingredients for the filling in a bowl with a fork until combined. For the crust you can either blend the ingredients or use melted coconut oil (or butter) and ground oats (use your coffee grinder if you don't have a blender) and just mix in another bowl until you get a crumbly, but sticky mixture. Spread the ingredients for the crust in a container of your choice. I decided to make mini cheesecakes, so I separated the crust and filled 8 silicone muffin cups with 2 tsp of crust each. Then press the mixture for the crust down and flatten with a spoon. Spread the filling on top and flatten with a silicone spatula. Freeze for at least one hour and pop the cheesecakes out of the silicone cups then transfer to the fridge (or freeze again*). If you’re making a bigger cheesecake, you can make it in a smaller springform and refrigerate for 3-4 hours or overnight. 38
Cookie Dough Keto Fat Bombs
RECIPE
INGREDIENTS: 1/2 c. (1 stick) butter, softened
1/3 c. Keto friendly confectioners sugar (such as Swerve) 1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract 1/2 tsp. kosher salt 2 c. almond flour
2/3 c. Keto friendly dark chocolate chips (such as Lily's)
www.delish.com | PARKER FEIERBACH
DIRECTIONS: In a large bowl using a hand mixer, beat butter until light and fluffy. Add sugar, vanilla and salt and beat until combined. Slowly beat in almond flour until no dry spots remain, then fold in chocolate chips. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and place in refrigerator to firm slightly, 15 to 20 minutes. Using a small cookie scoop, scoop dough into small balls. Store in the refrigerator if planning to eat within the week, or in the freezer for up to 1 month.
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RECIPE
Crustless Apple Pies
INGREDIENTS: 3 large baking apples, halved vertically and cored 6 tbsp. melted butter, divided 1/4 c. granulated sugar, plus more for sprinkling 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
2/3 c. old-fashioned rolled oats
Vanilla ice cream, for serving Warm caramel, for drizzling
www.delish.com | PARK FEIERBACH
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350°
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place each apple half flat side down and use a paring knife to create thin slices all the way across, making sure to stop slicing right before the bottom of the apple (so it stays together as one piece). Transfer apple halves to prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush apple tops with 2 tablespoons melted butter and sprinkle each with sugar. Bake until apples are soft and caramelized, about 25 minutes. Remove from oven. In a small bowl, combine remaining 4 tablespoons melted butter, sugar, cinnamon, and oats. Once cool enough to handle, spoon mixture inside apple slits. Return to oven and bake 10 minutes more. Top each with a scoop of ice cream, then drizzle with caramel before serving. 40
Chocolate Cuties
RECIPE
INGREDIENTS: 1/4 c. melted semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 tsp. coconut oil
5 mandarin oranges, peeled and divided into segments Flaky sea salt, for garnish
www.delish.com | CHELSEA LUPKIN
DIRECTIONS: Stir together melted chocolate and coconut oil. Dip each clementine segment into melted chocolate and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Garnish with flaky sea salt. Refrigerate until firm, 20 minutes and serve.
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