Culturistas: July 2009

Friday, July 31, 2009

Celebrities rock the Romper Trend

(from the top left: Dakota Fanning, Blake Lively, Kate Walsh, Selma Blair, Nicole Richie, and Ashley Olsen)

From black satin to yellow floral print- the romper trend has been seen all over Hollywood. Check out our style profile on the Romper with cheap shopping finds here: Lust vs. Musts: The Romper Trend

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Fashion Links a la Mode: July 30th

Breakfast at Saks – Aschobi: Sierra Leone Couture
Brick My Lane – Interview with Christian Joy, the genius behind the costumes worn by Karen O of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs
by Hillary – Deciding if you really need to dry clean that dress that says “dry clean”
Culturistas – The Culturistas find a ‘Lust vs Must’ profile of the Romper Trend!
Fashion Cents – Can you wear the romper trend? Fashion Cents helps you decide if and how to romp around
Fashion Hippo – Fashion Hippo is having a fantastic giveaway: Mary Frances “Mercury Rising” wristlet bag.
Fashion in my eyes – Interview: Fashion editor at 17
HiFashion – Tips for fashionable travellers
Idiosyncratic Style – A round up of 5 cool projects that are perfect for summer vacation, because they are light on supplies and low maintenance.
Independent Fashion Bloggers – Rhythm is Gonna Getcha: Maintaining Consistency in Your Blog
iStyle – The Lazy Girl’s Guide to Looking Fab: A real-life 5 minute make-up guide with unedited photos
Mademoiselle Robot – An interview with headwear designer Jennifer Loiselle about films, motherhood and independent designers.
Only Style Remains the Same – Offer an outfit idea to win a pair of Current/Elliott jeans from only style remains the same and chickdowntown.
Our Ocean – An insanely inspiring interview with Vivienne Westwood on Jonathan Ross
Pursed Lips – Lara Stone, size 4, heralded as bringing “curvy” back. But isn’t the bigger difference her C cup bra, and not her weight?
Rags to Reverie – A look at the Stella McCartney Fall 2009 ad campaign + a couple of deals from the eponymous label
reLYME – It’s Beka’s birthday, and in the spirit of birthday giving, reLYME is giving away SIX China Glaze nail lacquers from the Kicks collection!
Retro Chick – Can I wear it? Yes, I can! Retro Chick gives Harem Pants a try with surprising results.
Style Amor – Check out why I have given up buying a wedding gown from a traditional bridal boutique.
Sweet Fuzz – Score one of a kind fashion treasures at your local thrift store and check out the insanely cheap items I snapped up at mine.
The Coveted – Amsterdam Fashion Week bridges the gap between fashion students and industry at Lichting 2009
Unfunded – Unfunded collaborates with J. Money from Budgets are Sexy to learn what guys really think of the things we wear.

Restaurant Profile: Joe's

Joe's is a comfortable yet elegant restaurant in Venice that serves up delicious gourmet cuisine. It sits on Abbot Kinney Road which is a great beach-y area to walk around and enjoy the surrounding shops. Therefore you can't expect the restaurant to be too formal, judging by the inhabitants of the Venice community. This fact makes Joe's even more charming. The restaurant is far from pretentious but yet serves the same type of delicious and innovative food. Executive chef and owner, Joe Miller, even goes around to the tables to say hi and greet guests. Great touch.

Now lets get to the good part: The food!! Although the menu is small it seems that every dish is a winner. I was able to try the tuna tartar (fresh and mouthwatering!), the burrata appetizer (very creamy mozzarella and heirloom tomatoes), and the mushroom ravioli (exqusite!). The prime sirloin steak was also delicious (served on a bed of mashed potatoes and cripsy artichoke). The Jidori chicken was so tender and very subtle in its flavor.

Tips:
Parking is scarce so i'd probably splurge on the $5 dollar valet.
Make sure to get a table on the terrace/back garden
Skip dessert and take a walk on Abbot Kinney for ice cream.
Corkage is $20 per bottle but it still could be worth it to bring your own

Joe's

1023 Abbot Kinney Blvd
Venice, CA 90291
(310) 399-5811

www.joesrestaurant.com

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

The Frederick Weisman Museum: Los Angeles

[Photo: Sun-room of the Weisman house]

The Frederick Weisman museum in Los Angeles houses over 400 works of art, all by artists of the 20th century. However you will be surprised to know this museum isn't an ordinary museum in a building full of white walls- it is a house. A mansion in Hombly Hills to be exact. In fact it is the house Fred Weisman and his wife lived in. Even more interestingly is that they lived with these artworks exactly as they are shown today.

The house is open free to the public but only by appointment and guided tour. Inside the very 1980's mansion you will see art from the likes of Max Ernst, Andy Warhol (they have 10 Marilyn Monroe faces!!!), de Kooning, Rothko, Lichtenstein, Giacometti, Rauchenberg, Miro, Kandinsky etc etc. And don't be alarmed if you see oddly realistic sculptures of people throughout the tour. Possibly the weirdest encounter is the older lady in the foyer. If you didn't know any better, you'd think she was a straggler from the last tour. They are THAT realistic. Even weirder is that the Weismans collected so many of them and LIVED with them in their house that way.

[Photo: Andy Warhol's Marilyn Monroe]

This tour is a MUST see for any art lover. Instead of viewing art in the strict confines of a museum you get the chance to interact with artworks. And even more, you get to see how people lived with their art in such a personal way.

When you sign up to go on the tour they will fax you over pertinent information- such as the map and also a form you need to fill out and fax back. You are also not allowed to arrive any earlier than 5 minutes prior to your tour, since it is a house with limited parking.

Foundation Tour Hours
Days : Monday through Friday
Time : From 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM.

Advanced reservations are required.
Tel: (310) 277-5321
Fax: (310) 277-5075
Email: tours@weismanfoundation.org
Weismanfoundation.org

HAMPTONS SUMMER STYLE

If you are off for the weekend, it is more than likely that you are ready to relax. While we value high fashion and looking chic, the Culturistas are also strong advocates of comfort and dressing down. If you are heading to the Hamptons or some beach retreat this weekend take it easy and dress the part!

Shorts:$53 Topshop
Plaid Shirt: $15.80 Forever 21
Shoes: Converse high top Chuck Taylor $45

See you at the beach!

Comic-con 2009: Celebrity Fashion

The lovely ladies pictured above are just a minuscule proportion of the hordes of people that attended Comic-con in San Diego this past week. BUT they are some of the stand outs of Comic-con fashion! Eliza Dushku wore an adorable strapless mini dress while Scarlett Johansson wore a beige mini dress with black belt. Jennifer Connolly kept it very classic in a longsleeved navy dress. Kristen Bell and Hayden Panettiere sexed it up in tight body con dresses. Megan Fox wore a really cool cropped double breasted jacket with black skinny trousers and sheer top.

Monday, July 27, 2009

Enjoy Blueberry Buttermilk Sherbet!

Nothing is better than an ice cream on a hot sweaty day. I got a bit creative with the ice cream maker this past weekend and attempted Blueberry Buttermilk Sherbet. It was easy, lowfat, and absolutely delicious!

*Recipe yields approximately 4 cups

Ingredients:
2 cups of fresh blueberries
1 cup of sugar
2 cups of 1.5% buttermilk
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Preparation:
Place berries in blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Put the berry puree through a fine wire-mesh strainer into a large bowl, discarding solids. Add sugar, buttermilk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to bowl, and stir until well blended.

Pour raspberry mixture into freezer container of a 4-quart ice-cream maker, and freeze according to manufacturer's instructions. After approximately 30 minutes the mix should be frozen and ready to serve.

Notes:
I want to adequately forewarn you about the possibility of foodgasmic sensations. This sherbet is DELICIOUS. Substitution of other types of berries or fruits can also be done. Don't be afraid to experiment! Anything that you think would pair well with the tartness of buttermilk will work. Next I'm trying lime-coconut!

Sunday, July 26, 2009

Look of the week: Diane Kruger

Diane Kruger attended the UK premiere for her new film, directed by Quentin Tarantino, "Inglorious Bastards." She wore a flouncy Balmain mini dress with sexy sweetheart neckline as well as studded Christian Louboutin heels. The Culturistas love the outfit Diane!

Vote for us on the Bloggers Choice Awards!

Vote for us on the Bloggers Choice award site!! If you love our blog- we'd love your support :) You can vote here: Bloggerschoiceawards.com

Friday, July 24, 2009

Tory Burch Private Sale

Check out the private Tory Burch sale here: toryburchprivatesale.com

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Lust vs Must: Rompers

Romper: Anna Sui $470
Handbag: Marc by Marc Jacobs $548
Necklace: Tarina Tarnatino $740
Wedges: Piperlime $100

Romper: Ruche $40
Handbag: Handbag $50
Necklace: Fantasy Jewelry Box $47
Wedges: Heritage $29.80

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

FREE BURRITOS AT BAJA FRESH TONIGHT!

Hey LA friends! Tonight until 9:00 PM you get a FREE burrito with the purchase of any regular size drink and the promotional code is facebook. Take your hungry little butts over to Baja Fresh and eat some burritos for those of us on the East Coast that are deprived of good cheap Mexican food! Bon Appetit!

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Ice Pan: the newest dessert with options!

A friend to vegans and dieters alike, Ice Pan is the ice cream shop in the Santa Monica and La brea target center. If you haven't been inside- Ice Pan offers a new way to eat ice cream. First you choose your flavor- Vanilla, Chocolate, strawberry, green tea, kiwi, banana, yogurt, lemon, coffee, and mango. Then you decide what type of milk: whole, non-fat, low fat or soy. Finally you choose your toppings/mix ins- 15 different types like strawberries, chocolate chips and granola. There are two sizes: 7 oz for $4.95 and 9 oz for $5.95.

Then the magic happens- they make the ice cream from scratch right in front of you! To watch how its made check it out here. The ice cream is also all natural and uses fructoligosaccharide (sweetener derived from fruits and vegetables) instead of cane sugar or syrup. I had the non-fat vanilla ice cream with strawberries mixed in. I must say- for being from non-fat milk it was really creamy and delicious. I liked the vanilla flavoring- but next time i'd try something new.

To find out more about Ice Pan, go to their website here: icepanusa.com

Ice Pan
7100 Santa Monica Blvd
West Hollywood, CA 90046
(323) 883-0267

Party With Paper Mag and Housing Works!

This Thursday July 23rd from 6:00-9:00 PM Paper Mag and Housing Works Thrift Shop are throwing a party you do not want to miss! There is nothing better than partying with a purpose. Enjoying yourself while shopping and drinking is even better when you know it is for a good cause! Housing Works is an organization that extends support and aid to the homeless in New York suffering from AIDS/HIV. This noble fete is sponsored by Carlo Rossi and will provide refreshments. Paper Mag's editors and have merchandised the store to their liking to bring you the hottest looks. There will be an auction of the displays in the window and Andrew and Andrew are djing the event. The event goes until 9:00 PM, however, if you want to keep going there is an after party at 526 Broome Street.

Housing Works Thrift Shop
157 East 23rd Street
New York, NY

To RSVP click the LINK!

Saturday, July 18, 2009

Phillip Lim Party Fashion!

In honor of 3.1 Phillip Lim's 1 year anniversary, Vogue magazine and Rachel Bilson hosted a party for the designer at his LA store. Rachel wore a rose-gold lamé, double-breasted shorts suit from the designer's Resort 2010 collection (pictured above sans jacket- which is way cuter). Most people attending the party also rocked Phillip Lims clothes including the actresses above (Kristen Bell, Molly Sims and Shenae Grimes, Maggie Q)!

Friday, July 17, 2009

Chic and Cheap Finds: Detailed long tanks

Check out our Culturista cheap finds of the week from Urban Outfitters. Relaxed tunic tanks with feminine detailing are perfect for the summer months.

Detailed Racer back tank: On sale from $48 to 9.99

Cowel Neck Tank: On sale from $42 to 9.99

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Concerts in the Park Series: Central Park!

Pack your picnic basket, bring your wine and cheese, and make your way over to Central Park! it's officially summer and live music is everywhere! The free summer series is sponsored by Target and open to the public. The performance by the New York Philharmonic will be followed by a fireworks display. The next performance will be Friday July 17 at 8:00 PM on the Great Lawn in Central Park. Early arrival is suggested if you want to get a decent spot to lay out your picnic blanket. The orchestra will be playing "Old American Songs" by Copland and "Symphony #1" by Mahler and conducted by Alan Gilbert.

For more information on upcoming performances please check out the New York Philharmonic's webiste!

See you at the park!

The New Order Mag release party at the Carmichael Gallery!

Release party for 'The New Order' mag at the Carmichael Gallery this Saturday afternoon!

Carmichael Gallery: 1257 N. La Brea Ave /West Hollywood CA 90038

Saturday, July 18th, 3-7pm

DJs: Sean Reveron |
Ro Blvd. + RDNP

'The New Order' is a genuinely international look at street culture encompassing Fashion, Art, Film and more. A quarterly publication created by some of the most talented writers, editors and photographers from around the world and sold in all corners of the globe. A magazine targeting influencers and aimed at those who make and breathe tomorrow's trends.

Issue Featuring: Takashi Murakami, KAWS, Marilyn Minter, Jose Parla, Swoon, Mark Dean Veca, Rob Abeyta Jr., Kate Gibb, Ron English, Adam Neate, Keiichi Nitta, Andrew Schoultz, Erik Brunetti, Kevin Lyons, Neckface, Martha Cooper, Rick Owens, Tetsu Nishiyama/WTAPS, Raf Simons, A.P.C., Martin Margiela, Acronym, Billionaire Boys Club, Dr Romanelli, God's Prey, UNDFTD, Nike NSW and more.

RSVP@carmichaelgallery.com

Best Hangover Remedies from Food2

The Culturistas, and probably everyone else in the world, are no fans of hangovers. So if you had one too many last night and need a boost, the lovely people from Food2 have posted this great article on food/drink cures for hangovers! Check it out below:

Here's how to deal -- symptom by symptom:

Headache – alcohol has a dilating effect on your blood vessels

• Aspirin (the real thing) will tackle the headache—probably the most annoying part.
• Caffeine helps relieve that pounding headache by constricting your blood vessels too; it also wakes you up. But just like booze it dehydrates, so you'll still need to drink lots of water.

Cotton Mouth – a direct result of alcohol's dehydrating effects

• Water is your new best friend. Drink a lot before you go to bed (if you happen to be in a somewhat organized state of mind) and all day the next day.
• Sports drinks have enough salt and sugar to help replace all your spent electrolytes. Bouillon, fruit juice and even pickle juice do a similar job.
• The potassium in bananas also fights the dehydration.

Nausea – alcohol irritates your stomach lining, causing nausea and extra stomach acid

• Hangover foods around the world: Northern Germans swear by marinated fish (like herring), Mexicans have posole (tripe and hominy soup), and the Senegalese have yassa chicken and lemon stew. And the ancient Roman hangover cure was wine-soaked eel.

• Not feeling the global love? If you can handle food, your best bet is something like eggs, which are high in cysteine, which soaks up the leftover toxins.

• Tomatoes & tomato juice have lots of vitamin C, which takes a serious beating from the alcohol intake. But make that Bloody Mary a Virgin Mary if you know what’s good for you.

• If you even think about eating, try a fruit smoothie to boost your blood sugar and replenish all those lost nutrients.

Exhaustion

• Go back to bed. Seriously. Your spin class will always be there...

Bad Call

• Day Drinking: Bloodys and Screwdrivers for breakfast just prolong the pain.

• Painkillers & anti-nausea drugs. Four out of five doctors agree: Don’t bother.

• Fried Foods: Can reduce a hangover if eaten before drinking; after drinking...all good, if you can keep everything down...

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Recipe of the week: Baked Peach Crisp

Summer is here and peaches are definitely in season! Here is a simple but delicious recipe- that goes well with summer nights eating alfresco. Serves 6!

Ingredients:

3 large Peaches halved and pitted
5 Vanilla wafer cookies (I recommend the Trader Joes' Ultimate Vanilla wafer cookie)
3 tablespoons of almonds
2 large tablespoons of flour
2 tablespoons of brown sugar
3 tablespoons of chilled unsalted butter
Butter/Canola Oil spray
Ice cream or cool whip

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Combine cookies, almonds, flour, sugar, into food processor. Using the pulse button, process until the cookies have broken up into small pieces. Add the butter (cut into very small cubes) and pulse again, until it creates moist clumps.

Butter or spray a baking dish (roughly 11 x 7 x 3). Place peach halves into baking dish (cut side up). Spread crumble on each peach, lightly packing it down. Bake peaches in the oven for 40 minutes, or until peaches are tender and crust is a golden brown. Let cool for 5 minutes.

Place each peach half in a separate dish. Serve with 1 scoop of vanilla ice cream or cool whip.

Style Profile: Miranda Kerr

In honor of our "look of the week," Miranda Kerr--the Culturista's have decided to spotlight her style! Miranda goes from relaxed bohemian to nightime chic so easily. Her flare for style is evident in all her pics!

Take some style tips for Miranda: Wear muted and earth tones with the occasional splash of color (black, white, nude, light pink, brown). Pair a mini dress with a long blazer for gorgeous porportions! And make sure you have these few key pieces: A great pair of flat sandals for day time, a Maxi dress and a long blazer!

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Look of the week: Miranda Kerr

Miranda Kerr attended a screening of "500 Days of Summer" this past Thursday in NYC. She looks so chic in her pink boyfriend blazer, loose white tank, skinny jeans and nude pumps. She kept her look simple with no jewelry--- and this relaxed outfit is great for summer nights. The Culturistas love it!!

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Trend Watch: White Hot Dresses

megan fox serena gossip girl fashion celebrity style trends white dress

Short or long, simple or very detailed, the white dress is the fashion staple of the summer. Rock a white dress with contrasting black heels, black clutch and black jewelry for a dramatic look!

Hayden Pannetiere in Andy & Debb
Isabel Lucas in Chanel
Blake Lively in Roberto Cavalli
Taylor Momsen in D&G
Megan Fox in Armani

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Lust vs Must: Vintage Mini Dresses

Dress, Anna Sui $360
Boots,Bottega Veneta $890
Bag, Miu Miu, $515
Pearl Ring, Lanvin $481
Rose Cut Ring, Vintage $4600
Brooch Necklace, My Theresa $306
Fingerless Gloves, Alexander McQueen $470

Sailor Dress, Ruche $42.99
Shoes,Topshop $110
Bag, Monsoon Accessorize $27
Fingerless Gloves, Farfetch.com $61
Flower & Pearl Ring, Forever 21 $4.80

Rock a vintage looking mini dress this summer with a cross the shoulder bag, short boots and vintage inspired jewelry. If you're feeling extra daring, style this look with fingerless gloves as well!

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Spamalot Premieres in Los Angeles!

Monty Python's Spamalot starts tonight at the Ahmanson Theater in downtown LA! The show just ended its 4 year run on Broadway, winning multiple Tony Awards including the 2005 statuette for best musical, as well as a 2006 Grammy Award for Best Musical Show Album. I had the chance to see it- and it's a hilarious, laugh out loud comedy. The LA musical will star John O'Hurley, who also played the role in the Las Vegas production.

July 7- Sept 6, 2009
Ahmanson Theater
135 N. Grand Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90012

Get $49 tickets!

Click here to purchase $49 tickets or call Audience Services (213.972.4400) and mention code ARTHUR.

Tue-Thu performances through July 16, 2009. Not valid for Orchestra Rows A-Q. Subject to availability.

Not Valid on previously purchased tickets. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Monday, July 6, 2009

Recession Friendly Eats: LA Edition

In this economy, some people might be having trouble eating out as much as they used to. But us Culturistas love dining out. From a hole in the wall treasure to the latest gourmet restaurant in the city, finding new restaurants and tasting different cuisines is one of our favorite things to do. So if you are looking for a good deal but also some good eats- try these restaurants in LA! Check out our other happy hour features: Here

Rush Street
“Rush Hour Premium Happy Hour”: Premium liquor and draft beer for $5 from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday (well drinks are $3). DJ upstairs.
9546 Washington Blvd., Culver City, (310) 837-9546, www.rushstreetculvercity.com.

Citizen Smith
This popular after hours eatery and bar features 50% off lunches and dinners on Mondays! The Southern-style comfort food is served up gourmet for it's posh LA audience.
1600 N Cahuenga Blvd, Hollywood (310) 461-5001

South
“Recession Thursdays”: On Thursdays from 5 p.m. to midnight, $1 grilled cheese sandwiches (with potato chips), $2 pulled pork, chicken or beef brisket sandwiches (with chips). Happy hour ’til midnight includes $2 “mystery shots.”
All-you-can-eat ribs: Mondays from 5 to 10 p.m., for $12, all-you-can-eat ribs.
3001 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, (310) 828-9988, www.southsantamonica.com.

Craftbar at Craft
Chef Matt Accarrino opened a new bar at Craft where everything on the menu is 9 dollars or less! Sure they are small portions, but they promise to be satisfying. Check out the menu here: Craftbar Menu
10100 Constellation Blvd., Century City, 310-279-4180

Luna Park
Sun-Thursday nights: Blue Plate Special! Items from 10-12 dollars and drinks at 5 dollars. Follow them on twitter for even more discounts (like 50% off your meal!) Luna Park Twitter
672 S. La Brea, Los Angeles 323-934-2110

The Bazaar by José Andrés at the SLS Hotel
The restaurant has extended its DineLA Restaurant Week offer indefinitely: four courses for $45 per person. First course: jamón serrano with “Catalan style” toasted bread with tomato and olive oil or “organized Caesar salad” with quail eggs and Parmesan cheese; second course: “croquetas” (chicken and bechamel fritters) or “not your everyday Caprese salad” (cherry tomatoes and liquid mozzarella); third course: sautéed shrimp with garlic and guindilla pepper or hanger steak with piquillo pepper confit; fourth course: traditional Spanish flan with fresh cheese and fruit or assorted bonbons.
465 S. La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles, (310) 247-0400, www.thebazaar.com

Ketchup
While their usual menu can get quite pricey they are offering 50% off Sundays. Try the mac and cheese, it is to die for!
8590 Sunset Blvd in West Hollywood (in the Sunset Mall). 310.289.8590

Sunday, July 5, 2009

Look of the week: Jessica Alba

Jessica Alba shows of her casual but chic style this week in Beverly Hills. She wears black skinny jeans, flats, a cute top and great accessories. Even tho shes mulitasking: carrying her daughter, a cup of coffee and a diaper bag she still looks great! Love her easy updo with a headband and hoop earings. Follow her easy style for a comfortable and chic look!

Friday, July 3, 2009

Fourth of July Fashion!

Not sure what to wear this year for the Fourth of July? Catherine Malandrino's flag dress is the ultimate outfit to celebrate in. Inspired by Jasper Johns print, this dress has been worn by celebrities such as Heidi Klum, Kelly Ripa, Meryl Streep,and Keisha Whitaker.

To purchase the dress online and find out locations of boutiques click the link!

Happy fourth of July!

Chic and Cheap Finds: Men's accessories at Heritage 1981

Here are some great finds for our gentleman readers this week. Grab a pair of retro sunglasses and a straw fedora (perfect for Summer) at Heritage 1981, for UNDER 25 dollars!

Fedora: Heritage 1981
Sunglasses: Heritage 1981

Thursday, July 2, 2009

Fourth of July BBQ's galore

Most of you will have or attend a July 4th BBQ or even one BBQ sometime this summer. Here are some great recipes that will save you hassle and are quite delish! Start with the perfect summer cocktail: The Pineapple Margarita. Move on to a hot dog with a twist: the Nacho Dog and finish with a refreshing and tasty frozen lemonade pie.

Pineapple Margarita recipe from Ina Garten @Thefoodnetwork.com

Ingredients:

2 cups lime juice, about 20 limes
2 cups white tequila
2 cups Triple Sec
2 1/2 cups fresh pineapple juice
Fresh pineapple slices, for garnish
Ice

Directions:

Combine the lime juice, tequila, Triple Sec, and pineapple juice. Fill a cocktail shaker or blended 1/2-way with ice and fill 2/3 full with the margarita mixture. Shake for 30 seconds or blend and pour into glasses. Decorate with fresh pineapple slices and serve ice cold.

Nacho Dog recipe from Bobby Flay @ Thefoodnetwork.com

Ingredients:

Guacamole:

2 ripe Hass avocados, peeled, pitted and coarsely chopped
1 large jalapeno, finely diced
3 tablespoons finely diced red onion
1 lime, juiced
2 tablespoons canola oil
3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper

Grilled Tomato and Chipotle Salsa:

4 plum tomatoes
4 tablespoons canola oil
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons chipotle in adobo puree

Hot Dogs:

8 kosher beef, turkey or chicken hot dogs
8 hot dog buns, split 3/4 of the way through
1 1/2 cups grated white Cheddar
8 pickled jalapenos, thinly sliced
Fried blue corn tortilla chips, coarsely crumbled

Directions:

Guacamole:

Combine the avocados, jalapeno, onion, lime juice, oil and cilantro in a bowl and gently mix until combined. Season with salt and peppers.

Salsa:

Heat the grill to high. Brush tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of the canola oil and season with salt and pepper. Place on the grill until charred on all sides. Remove from the grill, slice the tomatoes in half, remove the seeds and coarsely chop. Whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil, vinegar and chipotle puree in a small bowl, add the tomatoes and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper.

Hot Dogs:

Heat the grill to high. Grill dogs until golden brown on all sides, about 7 minutes. Remove to a plate. Place buns on the grill cut side down and grill until lightly golden brown, about 20 seconds. Place hot dogs in the buns, top with cheese, jalapeno, guacamole, salsa and tortilla chips.

Make Bobby's recipe REALLY easy by using your favorite pre-made salsa and guacamole.

Frozen Lemonade Pie recipe from The Neely's @ TheFoodNetwork.com

Ingredients:

Graham Cracker Crust:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup sugar
7 tablespoons butter, melted
OR pre-made pie crust

Lemonade Filling:

1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk, chilled
1 (12 ounce) container whip topping, thawed
1 (6 fluid ounce) can frozen lemonade concentrate, keep frozen
1 teaspoon candied lemon peel (Optional)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

In medium bowl, combine cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of sugar, and the melted butter. Press firmly on bottom and up sides of pie plate. Bake for 7 minutes and let cool completely.

In a medium bowl, add chilled sweetened condensed milk and cool whip and fold gently. Add frozen lemonade and continue to gently fold. Do not let the mixture become soupy. Pour mixture into the pie crust and freeze overnight. Garnish with candied lemon peel.

To make this recipe SUPER easy buy a pre-made graham cracker pie crust at the supermarket

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Summer fun @ the Hollywood Bowl

The Hollywood bowl in Los Angeles is a great place to visit in the summer. The weather is gorgeous (though it usually is here), the sun sets later, and picnicking is the thing to do.

This summer the line up is fabulous and eclectic. From Death Cab for Cutie and Incubus to Liza Minelli, Poncho Sanchez and John Williams, all Los Angelinos will find a concert they'd enjoy. Starting tomorrow (through to the fourth), there will be a special US Birthday bash performance, complete with fireworks and special guest John Fogerty, the guitar and voice of Creedence Clearwater Revival.

Know Before you Go:
Bring a picnic (including wine)!! You can get food and drinks at the Hollywood bowl, but you will save tons of money if you bring your own.

Take the Shuttle! You can park at the Hollywood bowl for 14-30 dollars. But the shuttle costs $4 per person round trip (and you can buy those tix in advance on Ticketmaster when you get your concert tickets). Check out the shuttle schedule and pick up areas: HERE

If you sit in a box- it is super convienient to picnic WHILE you watch, but the acoustics are amazing at the Hollywood bowl, so even if you are sitting all the way in the back it will be a great show!

Tickets range from 8 to 125 dollars, check out the schedule of events and buy tickets here:
Schedule of Events, Buy Tickets

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