SPRING CLEANING & EASTER RECIPES PT. 1 🐰🍬
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HI!
Apparently, Chicago didn’t get the memo that the Spring Equinox started on Tuesday (and the audacity to put snow back in the forecast?!). But with these longer days and the few flowers miraculously blooming in the neighborhood, I got the urge to do a bit of spring cleaning. I love my dog, but man does he shed! My sister was still in town so we hit the living room and kitchen with a deep clean…I’m talking cleaning behind and under the couch, vacuuming each cushion, wiping the floorboards, and storing my thicker winter throw blankets. We opened the balcony door and let in some crisp fresh air and what a difference it all makes. I feel more energized and my space feels calm and rejuvenated.
All this has inspired me to cook some lighter fresh meals to welcome the new season. And because Easter is just around the corner, I’ve included some of my favorite sides, apps, and entrees in this week’s Digest. These are also perfect for bringing to an Easter get-together. Next week, I will include some Easter-inspired desserts and cocktails. Have a great weekend!
Cheers 🥂
CURRENT OBSESSIONS
Feat. the Pantry Sisters.
This section is a collab with my sister. While the kitchen remains my domain, Nat’s the real-life influencer of the family.
HIL’S SELECTS:
TATINE Kashmir Fragrant Hand Lotion
There is a little boutique by my house called RR #1 Chicago and it is filled floor to ceiling with all kinds of interesting and unique goodies and gifts. They have a huge section of bubble baths, soaps, lotions, candles, and fragrances. I tested this hand lotion and the scent is to dieeee for. The sweetest sales associate told us that the owner is friends with Margo the maker of this lotion (and also candles!) and she’s very cool and likes to listen to 80s rock, drink wine, and have fun…love her. The store was the first place she sold her products and now she’s been featured on Drew Barrymore's favorite things list! If you’re in the area I highly suggest you stop by RR #1 Chicago. Plus I love supporting a woman-owned small business! If you’re not in the area, you can shop Tatine and other items on their website here.
La Savonnerie Du Pilon Du Rou Bain Lait D’Anesse Bath Soak
This bath soak smells amazing! And to my surprise, it’s also made with donkey milk🫏🥛. I looked into this, and Donkey milk contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds, that help reduce and calm skin irritation and redness. The more ya know… I also picked this up from RR #1 Chicago and you can purchase it on their website here.
As you know, I am obsessed with all things yuzu. I got this little refreshing drink at Foxtrot. It was great on its own, but I think I would love it in a cocktail/mocktail too. You can purchase from your local Foxtrot (if you have one) or order a 12-pack here.
NAT’S SELECTS
I don’t know how we forgot to include this powder in last week’s Japan Faves Digest because I’m truly obsessed with it. It is a very refined pressed powder to set makeup and combat oiliness, but it’s also formulated to help with acne. I love makeup that is also skincare :) It’s so light and applies best with a powder puff in a stamping motion, and it’s $10!
Jelly Dough Blusher by Holika Holika
We saw an influencer use this blush in a recent TikTok. It comes in a compact with a cushion applicator. It applies as a cream but quickly dries down to a powder finish. I got the Plum Jelly shade, a bright pink that looks very angelic and like I was just out in the snow. Best of all it’s also $10!
AS SEEN ON TIKTOK
MEXICAN TUNA SALAD/CEVICHE
My mom’s friend from work, who is from Mexico, has been making this Mexican tuna salad for them on Fridays. Call it tuna salad or call it ceviche (as everyone on Tiktok so politely told me 🙄) but whatever you call it, know that you won’t be able to stop eating it. I honestly can’t.
WHAT I’M COOKING THIS WEEK
Check my favorite Easter-ready apps, entrees, and sides for any upcoming holiday celebrations. 🐰🍬🐣🌷
GRILLED CARROTS WITH LABNEH & HONEY
Carrots and labneh make a delicious combination and are a perfect side dish for Easter diner. I found these colorful carrots at the farmer’s market, but any medium-sized carrots will do. The carrots are drizzled in honey after they are grilled and topped with Dukkah, a Middle Eastern spice similar to Za’atar.
Prep Time: 15 min Cook Time: 20 min Total Time: 35 min
ASPARAGUS SPAGHETTI AL LIMONE
This pasta tastes like spring. It is light and simple with the perfect hint of heat from the red pepper flakes.
Prep Time: 5 min Cook Time: 15 min Total Time: 20 min
AUNT LINDA’S FAVORITE ROLLS
My Aunt Linda made these many Thanksgivings ago and everyone loved them. I got the recipe and have been making them for our Friendsgiving for the past few years and they are a huge hit. They are one of my favorite dishes on Thanksgiving and you only need 6 ingredients.
Prep Time: 1 hr 15 min Cook Time: 30 min Total Time: 1 hr 45 min
ANTIPASTO PASTA SALAD
This is a great recipe if you want something fresh, but also hearty and delicious. You can customize this salad by adding your favorite cheese, meats, and pasta. It’s the perfect dish to bring to a potluck or cookout.
Prep Time: 15 min Cook Time: 15 min Total Time: 30 min
LEMON ORZO CHICKEN SOUP
This orzo soup is cozy, healthy, and filling. It comes together very quickly because the chicken is already cooked, and the majority of the ingredients are items that you already have in your pantry.
Prep Time: 10 min Cook Time: 20 min Total Time: 30 min