Cooking Vlog: Zucchini Vegetable Medley on Jasmine Rice

This is a quick and easy meal for a busy work week ahead. I prepared this for Sunday dinner and had plenty of leftovers during the work week. In the video below, I show you how to use zucchini and other vegetables to make a tasty meal with jasmine rice. Happy eating!

Vlog: Eating Lunch at Chef Tanya's Kitchen in Palm Desert, CA | Vegan Food Review

On the menu: Pastrami Mami (vegan)

I was craving some well-made vegan food and decided to go to Chef Tanya's Kitchen in Palm Desert, California, for the first time. Upon entry, plenty of seating was available at this location, and many specialty items to browse. I looked through her desserts and decided to try a sandwich for lunch, the Pastrami Mami with a side of her potato salad. This restaurant is completely plant-based and the pastrami is made of seitan, the main protein of wheat. If you like Reuben sandwiches, then this Pastrami Mami is a vegan take on that, which was my favorite sandwich before I became vegan so I gave hers a try. The plant-based pastrami was moist and seasoned well. The sauerkraut, pickles, and vegan pastrami is what made this sandwich tasty. The vegan cheese was present but I didn't taste it as much but the flavors were amazing.

I would definitely order the Pastrami Mami again in the future. Chef Tanya has a potato salad that has fresh herbs and the potatoes are cut into chunks, not all mushy, which I enjoyed. I could taste the potatoes along with its other ingredients. I could eat the potato salad anytime, well done with that side.

On the Menu (sides): Potato Salad

There were so many specialty items to browse and choose from, perfect for gifting for the holidays, birthdays, or any time of the year. 

In the video below, I share my visit to Chef Tanya's Kitchen in Palm Desert, California. Watch and enjoy! 

If you've tried Chef Tanya's Kitchen let me know what you thought of it in the comments below. What are your favorites so I can try them next time? Chef Tanya has cooking classes, and an opportunity to travel and eat plant-based foods in Italy. Learn more about this and more at her website, https://cheftanyaskitchen.com.

Bon Appétit, vegan-style!

Disclaimer: Some links in this blog post may be affiliate links in which I may receive a commission. There is no charge to you. Thank you for supporting this blog and helping to continue creating free content.

Bettergoods Plant-based Macaroni and Cheeze Review

It is convenient when there is a quick meal to prepare after a day of work or travel. I recently taste-tested Bettergoods Plant-based Macaroni and Cheeze by Walmart. It was easy to prepare, with a Velveeta-like vegan cheese sauce. Walmart has Bettergoods products throughout their stores, which include vegan options in their lineup. In the video below, I show how to prepare Bettergoods vegan mac and cheese and share my overall review.

Hiking the Beautiful Andreas Canyon in Palm Springs, CA

Andreas Canyon Palm Trees

If you're looking for a serene escape into nature, Andreas Canyons in Palm Springs, CA, should be at the top of your list. Located on the ancestral lands of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, Andreas Canyons has a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history.

Surrounded by towering rock formations, vibrant palm groves, and a meandering stream, the canyon is a tranquil oasis in the heart of the desert. The lush landscape contrasts beautifully with the rugged desert terrain, making it a favorite spot for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers alike.

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The trails in Andreas Canyons are accessible for all skill levels, providing a peaceful hike through the canyon’s diverse ecosystem. As you walk along, you'll be greeted by native plants, stunning vistas, and the soothing sounds of the stream that winds through the area. I enjoyed sitting on a large rock and watching the water flow through the canyon. The cooler temperatures within the canyon make it an ideal year-round destination, especially during the warmer months. I did this hike in the morning, entering when it opened at 8:00AM. It was a peaceful, overcast, morning for the hike, which I enjoyed.

Beyond its natural beauty, Andreas Canyons also holds cultural significance. Visitors can learn about the deep connection between the Cahuilla people and the land. Plenty of opportunities exist to engage with the region's history and appreciate the canyon as more than just a picturesque destination.

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Whether you're seeking a quiet retreat into nature, a scenic spot for photography, or a place to connect with local history, Andreas Canyons is a must-visit location in Palm Springs. Andreas Canyon is just one hiking trail in the Indian Canyons so there's even more to explore.

Disclaimer: Some links in this blog post may be affiliate links in which I may receive a commission. There is no charge to you. Thank you for supporting this blog and helping to continue creating free content.

Guide to Packing a Nutritious and Fun Lunchbox for Kids with Amazon Fresh

Image by jun yang from Pixabay

Packing a lunchbox for kids can feel like a juggling act—balancing nutrition, taste, and variety, all while making sure your child will actually eat what you pack! But with Amazon Fresh, creating healthy and exciting lunch options it's easier than ever. Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking for fresh ideas to make lunchtime a little more fun, here’s how to master the art of the lunchbox with Amazon Fresh.

1. Start with the Basics: Balanced Nutrition

A great lunchbox is all about balance. You want to include a variety of food groups—proteins, whole grains, fruits, veggies, and a little treat—so your child stays energized throughout the day.

• Proteins: Amazon Fresh has a wide selection of kid-friendly proteins like grilled chicken strips, turkey slices, hard-boiled eggs, and even plant-based options like hummus or nut butter.
• Whole Grains: Choose from whole-wheat bread, wraps, or even quinoa and couscous. If your child loves pasta, whole-grain pasta salads can be a great lunchbox staple.
• Fruits and Veggies: Pre-sliced apples, carrot sticks, cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper slices are easy to find and pack. Don’t forget Amazon Fresh offers convenient snack-sized packs of pre-cut fruits and veggies for the ultimate time-saver.

2. Get Creative with Themes

Kids love surprises, and giving their lunchbox a fun theme can make lunchtime more enjoyable. Here are a few ideas to keep things interesting:

• Color Day: Pack foods in a specific color palette. For instance, a "green day" could include cucumber slices, green apple wedges, spinach tortilla wraps, and guacamole.
• Build-Your-Own: Turn lunch into an interactive experience by packing DIY elements. Mini tacos with tortillas, shredded cheese, beans, and salsa, or build-your-own pizza with whole-wheat pita, marinara, cheese, and toppings, can make lunchtime feel like an adventure.

Amazon Fresh offers pre-packaged snack kits that come in different themes, making it simple to add variety to your child’s lunch without much extra work.

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3. Mix in Some Fun, Healthy Snacks

Snacks can be both fun and healthy with Amazon Fresh. Try to balance your child’s lunch with nutrient-dense options that still feel like a treat.

• Yogurt: Pack a cup of Greek yogurt or yogurt tubes for an easy, protein-rich snack. Add a side of granola or fruit to mix in.
• Popcorn: Instead of chips, air-popped popcorn or whole-grain crackers are crunchy and fun to eat.
• Trail Mix: Create your own mix using nuts, dried fruits, and a few dark chocolate chips for sweetness.
• Smoothies: Pre-made smoothies or Amazon Fresh’s frozen fruit can be a lifesaver for a quick, nutrient-packed drink your child will love.

4. Keep it Fresh

No one likes soggy sandwiches or wilted lettuce. Invest in an insulated lunchbox and reusable ice packs to keep everything cool and fresh. Amazon Fresh’s chilled delivery options make it easy to keep items fresh until you’re ready to pack them up.

• Pro Tip: Prep lunches the night before using Amazon Fresh’s easy delivery scheduling so you can have everything at your doorstep, ready to go for the morning rush.

5. Allergy-Friendly Options

If your child has food allergies, Amazon Fresh makes it easy to find allergy-friendly foods. From gluten-free bread to dairy-free snacks, you’ll find an array of options to ensure your child’s lunch is safe and satisfying. Look out for labels like "gluten-free," "nut-free," or "dairy-free" while browsing.

6. Eco-Friendly Packaging

Using eco-friendly containers and packaging is a great way to teach kids about sustainability. Amazon Fresh offers an assortment of reusable snack bags, stainless steel containers, and insulated lunch bags to help reduce waste. Plus, many of their products come in recyclable or biodegradable packaging.

7. Don’t Forget the Treat!

A small treat can make lunch something your child looks forward to. It could be a small piece of dark chocolate, a homemade cookie, or even a fruit-based snack. With Amazon Fresh, you can easily find healthier alternatives to traditional sweets, like fruit leathers or organic gummy bears.

Packing a nutritious and fun lunchbox doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming, especially with the convenience of Amazon Fresh. With a variety of fresh ingredients, pre-made options, and allergy-friendly products, Amazon Fresh makes it easy to put together a lunch your kids will love. So next time you’re packing lunches, let Amazon Fresh help you create a meal that’s balanced, fun, and full of flavor, delivered straight to your door! Happy Packing!

Disclaimer: Some links in this blog post may be affiliate links in which I may receive a commission. There is no charge to you. Thank you for supporting this blog and helping to continue creating free content.

Tahquitz Canyon Hiking Trail: A Hidden Oasis in Palm Springs, CA

Tahquitz Falls 

If you're in Palm Springs during the summer, the idea of a hike might sound intense with temperatures soaring above 100°F. However, for those seeking an adventure that combines natural beauty, cultural history, and a refreshing escape, Tahquitz Canyon offers an unforgettable experience. Recently, I took this hike during the summer and enjoyed every minute.

A Journey Through Time and Nature

Tahquitz Canyon is located a short drive from downtown Palm Springs and is a sacred site for the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. The 2-mile round-trip hike is not just a trek through the rugged desert landscape, but a journey through time. There are points on the trail where I had to step up onto large rocked paths, but a good pair of hiking shoes and trekking sticks, if you need them will get you through it. Along the way, you'll find ancient petroglyphs, bedrock mortars, and the stunning Tahquitz Falls, a 60-foot waterfall that provides a cool respite from the heat. I spent a good amount of time here, many visitors brought swimwear to plunge deeper and enjoy the cool water. Although it was summer, there was still a nice amount of water in the basin for visitors to enjoy.

Summer Hiking Tips

While the canyon's beauty is undeniable, summer hiking in Palm Springs requires some preparation:

Start Early: The early morning hours are the best time to hike Tahquitz Canyon. Not only will you avoid the peak heat of the day, but you'll also have the chance to enjoy the trail in relative solitude. I started out on the trail at 7:45am and finished the entire visit by 10:00am before the sun really brought the heat.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Bring plenty of water—at least a liter per person, which is required to hike this trail. There is a refilling water fountain in the Tahquitz Canyon Visitor Center to refill your water bottle. The desert heat can dehydrate you quickly, and there’s no water available on the trail.

Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun. Don’t forget the sunscreen!

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Know Your Limits: The hike is moderate, with some rocky and uneven terrain, but the heat can make it more challenging. Listen to your body and take breaks in the shade when you find it if needed. Most of this trail is open to the elements so there's not much shade so consider that when you hike this trail.

The Reward: Tahquitz Falls

The highlight of the hike is undoubtedly the Tahquitz Falls. Even in the height of summer, the waterfall flows steadily, creating a cool, misty environment that feels like a hidden oasis in the desert. The pool at the base of the falls is an inviting spot to sit and relax, letting the sound of the water wash away the stress of daily life. Many visitors brought their swimwear and went into the water and others took off their socks and shoes and took a walk in the water to cool off.

A Cultural Connection

Tahquitz Canyon is not just a place of natural beauty, but also of cultural significance. The canyon is named after the legendary spirit Tahquitz, who, according to Cahuilla legend, resides in the canyon. As you hike, you’ll notice signs that explain the history and significance of the area, providing a deeper connection to the land. When you grab a brochure, you will see the various red symbols on rocks that share more details about specific areas in the canyon.

Hiking Tahquitz Canyon in the summer may not be for everyone, but for those willing to brave the heat, it offers a unique and rewarding experience. The combination of natural beauty, cultural history, and the refreshing waterfall make it one of Palm Springs' most iconic hikes. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a short escape into nature, Tahquitz Canyon is a must-visit destination.

So, next time you're in Palm Springs and craving time in nature, consider an early morning hike in Tahquitz Canyon. Just remember to bring your refillable water bottle or 1 liter of water and your sense of adventure!

Disclaimer: Some links in this blog post may be affiliate links in which I may receive a commission. There is no charge to you. Thank you for supporting this blog and helping to continue creating free content.