Fig & Vanilla Vodka

I’ve been meaning to try infusing vodka with various flavors for what feels like forever now.  This weekend provided me with the perfect opportunity as I had some leftover figs from preparing this delectableappetizer.  Fresh figs and vanilla beans could make even the crappiest vodka taste lovely.  Keep note you have to let this sit for at least one week.  As it sits the figs give off this beautiful purple color.  I’m currently brainstorming cocktail creations.  Stay tuned… 

Ingredients:

• 1 mason jar
• vodka (doesn’t have to be the best, don’t worry I’m not judging you)
• fresh figs (I used 4)
• 1 vanilla bean

Directions:
Clean and sterilize jar.
Clean and slice figs. Place in the jar.
Slice a vanilla bean pod in half.  Place it into the jar with the figs.
Poor vodka over the figs and vanilla bean. Seal and let sit for one week.
Strain and serve chilled just as it is or, in your own cocktail creation.

Coconut Date Granola

This was my second time making granola from scratch.  You can check out my first attempt here. I used whatever I had in my pantry and the results were delicious and nutritious. This added the perfect sweetness and crunch to Greek yogurt for my weekday breakfast.  I highly recommend it as an ice cream topping as well.

 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup whole rolled oats (certified gluten free)
• 1 cup instant steel cut oats
• 1/3 cup quinoa (I used tricolor from Trader Joe's)
• 2 T chia seeds
• 3/4 cup sliced almonds
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut
• 2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/3 cup chopped dried dates
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted

Directions:
In large mixing bowl, combine all dry ingredients.
Add maple syrup and coconut oil and combine thoroughly.
Spread onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. and bake at 225 degrees for one hour.  Let cool or if you can't help your self like me enjoy while still warm.

Cesi & Ben's Wedding

 {The bridesmaids were toasting it up with mini bottles of Verdi before the ceremony}

 

Happy September!  Here are a few photos from Cesi & Ben's (my sister and brother in law) wedding last Saturday.

Congrats, guys!  Here's wishing you a lifetime of happiness together.  God Bless!

{the beautiful bride} 

 {our gorgeous bouquets}

 {the bridal party}

 {how dapper was Josiah?!}

 {absolutely LOVED their cake topper}

 {partying it up with my boo}

 

{congrats, you crazy kids! XO}