A Side of Sweet

Heart Valentine’s Day Photobooth + Free Emoji Props

An easy DIY Geometric Heart Valentine’s Day Photobooth made with yarn and wire, plus FREE printable emoji photo booth props to download!

Last weekend, I hosted a Galentine’s Day Fête for some of my girlfriends. I felt like we were long overdue for some quality time, so I got everyone together for a brunch at my place! With the current political climate, it felt even more timely to celebrate the friendships I’ve made here in San Francisco.

A photobooth has become a party essential for me. They are so easy to make and people go crazy for them! They are a way to make sure each of your guests goes home with something memorable from the event. You don’t have to spend a ton of money to create a photo booth though. For this one all you need is some craft wire and yarn!… Read More »

Naan BLT Bites Game Day Appetizer

Naan BLT bites are a great game day appetizer recipe. They take just minutes to make and will be a hit for your Tailgating party.

One of the biggest American sporting events of the year is almost here! What better to enjoy the big game with than another American classic – BLTs? I’ve given the traditional BLT sandwich a great party upgrade with these easy-to-make naan BLT bites…. Read More »

Vegan Kiwi Kale Green Smoothie w/ Coconut Water

Gluten Free Vegan

A healthy and vegan kiwi kale green smoothie recipe made with coconut water. It takes just minutes to make and makes a great snack.

This green smoothie is as pretty as a picture, especially when it’s served in a clear glass decorated with kiwi slices. It’s also guilt-free and packed with healthy greens and fruit…. Read More »

Crock Pot Greek Yogurt vs. Buying a Yogurt Maker

Gluten Free

Pros and cons of buying a yogurt maker vs making your own yogurt in a slow cooker, plus a review of the best Greek yogurt machine!

One of our goals for 2017 was to reduce the amount of plastic we use in our food. The reason for this was twofold. One was for our health. Research shows that the components of plastics can leach into food. Although the effects of this aren’t completely clear, it has been linked with things like cancer, heart disease and other chronic diseases. The second reason was to do our small part to help the environment. When you There isn’t really a downside to using less plastic.

Previously I occasionally made batches of Greek yogurt using our slow cooker. The taste and quality of homemade yogurt was so much more satisfying than store-bought yogurt, once we made the switch our consumption went up. We were consuming about a gallon of homemade yogurt a week…. Read More »

Brazilian Chicken Soup with Yucca & Yam

Gluten Free

A delicious Brazilian Chicken Soup recipe with yam, yucca root, and shredded chicken. It’s hearty, gluten free, delicious and easy to make – just in time for National Soup Month!

After months of splurging for the holidays, it’s time to refocus on healthy eating. In that spirit, I have an amazing recipe for you today from Ladle & Leaf. If you haven’t heard of them, Ladle & Leaf is a San Francisco-based restaurant group offering healthy lunch options in downtown and the Financial District. They are absolutely my go-to lunch place when I’m in downtown SF…. Read More »

Make Shredded Chicken in a Slow Cooker

Gluten Free

With 5 minutes of prep you can have perfect pulled or shredded chicken using your slow cooker or crock pot. Add to soups, salads or casseroles for an easy dinner.

Did you know you can use your slow cooker to prepare the most moist, tender and delicious shredded chicken you can possibly imagine? All it takes is a few minutes of prep time and ingredients you probably already have on hand. The first time I tried it, my mind was literally blown. I think it’s my favorite way to make chicken at home.

Wondering what to do with this recipe? Lucky for you I’ll have an amazing soup recipe that uses shredded chicken in just a couple of days! It’s also great on salads, in a casserole, with pasta, or just on its own…. Read More »