Flavor Buffet: 7/3/2020
Hello and happy Friday! Oh, and hello long weekend!
The sun came back yesterday and my oh my it was glorious. My mood is instantly lifted and my productivity goes sky-high when the weather is picture-perfect. Even today’s clouds aren’t bothering me since yesterday was simply incredible. Everyone needs a consistent dose of vitamin D. :)
Now, before you tell me I should be living in Hawaii or somewhere that gets far more sunny days than New England, I must add the following: I love sunny days in the summer most of all. Summertime around here is just a joy, no matter the current status of the world. Just add a mask, stay away from people, and you’re good to go. ;)
This weekend is the Fourth of July (cue the digital fireworks) and so I’m presenting to you a Buffet filled with extra everything while you relax at home or wherever you happen to be. You deserve it!
I hope you have a happy and safe weekend and please, please wear a mask. I’m providing plenty of stylish options - just scroll down to Shop. ;)
Read
If you choose to go out to eat right now, or order takeout, or request delivery, then you need to tip very well. It’s the right thing to do.
In case you’re curious about the ongoing anti-racism efforts in food media (or what should be happening), then I’d recommend reading this.
Did you see my skincare post this week? Check it out, but also read this great piece by Black beauty editor Maya Allen. I’m definitely going to take a closer look at the products she recommends.
We’re all about zero/minimal food waste these days and we try to use every bit of our groceries each week. I liked this article about how to make the most of your “food scraps,” which offered many great suggestions.
I enjoyed this breezy piece by California-designer Jenni Kayne about home decor and enjoying the somewhat-slower pace of her life these days. Her clothes and shoes are incredible, by the way.
Cook
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes - this meal sounds like a delicious alternative if you’re not in the mood to grill this weekend.
Taco Stuffed Peppers - considering making these next week in place of our usual burrito bowl. Yum!
Beach Bean Salad - whether we actually visit the beach this summer is up in the air, but I may need to make this salad regardless of where we eat it. A park bench would be delightful as well!
Strawberry Blueberry Shortcakes - it’s fourth of July weekend! You may want to make something colorfully patriotic, which would definitely be this dessert.
Cheddar Jalapeno Chicken Burger with Guacamole - not a fan of beef? I’d recommend this marvelous chicken burger instead. Wowza.
Spiralized Firecracker Hot Dogs - it’s not July without hot dogs, in my opinion. These sound delicious - and way better than fireworks. ;)
Dine
As you know, we are refraining from going out to eat, but we are actively seeking awesome takeout! Each weekend we usually order from one or two spots and either eat in the car or find a sunny spot away from other people. Charming! Well, that’s the way things are right now. So instead of lamenting what we can’t do, let’s embrace the options instead, shall we? Grab your mask and go get that dinner!
Last weekend we enjoyed ice cream, tacos, french fries, and more, so I don’t feel as though I’m missing out on much. If you haven’t eaten tuna tacos in the car, then I recommend trying it! Slightly messy, but still quite delicious.
This is my updated guide to our favorite takeout right now.
Here is my Bar Bites: Local guide to our favorite restaurants in/around Boston.
Here is Bar Bites: Beyond for dining guides to Maine, NYC, and more.
Shop
Use, and then order from, this excellent guide to the best face masks on the market. I’m considering several of these options.
I was lamenting about buying shorts over on Instagram this week (it’s not easy when you can’t try them on before buying), but I’ve found these jean shorts to be very comfy and flattering.
Seth ordered this garment to wear as a quick way to cover his face if he’s near anyone while out mountain-biking. It’s very comfortable! Oh, yes, I tried it on too.
Just another plug to wear sunscreen when you go outside! I put this on every morning as part of my daytime skincare routine.
How would you ever pick (just) one from the collection? I love these sweaters.
Enjoy! Wear a Mask.