Skinny Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms

December 14, 2015 Amanda Plott

I got this lovely bottle of Gloria Ferrer Pinot Noir that I've had sitting on my counter and staring at me for a couple of weeks now. I've been pondering over what exactly I wanted to pair with it. With the holidays still in full swing, I thought it would be the perfect time to whip up another tasty and better-for-you appetizer that would be perfect for entertaining; sure to make your next elegant holiday party sparkle!

One of my most favorite things to pair with pinot noir is the earthy flavors of mushrooms that only bring out the brambly flavor of this red wine. Many few years back I had started making these spinach and cheese stuffed mushrooms, so I knew that they would be the perfect partner to my pinot noir....

Holiday Cheer White Sangria

November 28, 2014 Amanda Plott

This past weekend we had a little pre-holiday family get together with my dad's side of the family. After our recent loss of my grandfather to liver cancer a couple months ago, my mother and I thought it would be a great idea to get all of my cousins and our children together for a fun family sleep over to try and keep my families' spirits up this season.

While there, and amidst all the chaos of screaming kids, one of my aunts pulled me aside and gave me an unexpected gift; these wonderful wine-friendly drink coasters! What can I say? She knows me well! I was told that they better be seen being used in some of my photographs, so here you go Aunt Donna!...

Anatomy of a Cheese Plate

February 16, 2014 Amanda Plott

Yes, I'm a wine-o - I admit it! I'm a big lush and I looove me some cheese.

I know that this isn't exactly a skinny sort of thing, but if it's done right and in moderation... it doesn't have to completely undo your day, or week, or month, or year! So this is a how-to for a proper cheese plate...

Red Wine Beef Stew

September 14, 2013 Amanda Plott

When I was growing up, it was all about my mom's infamous beef pot roast. I can't ever recall us having any beef stew though. When I asked her why she never made it, she said it was 'just something she wasn't too fond of'.

Well, I've managed to change her mind with this recipe.

My picky brother even gave me a thumbs-up for this stew! And... I think I only got a thumbs-up because he was busy stuffing his face with the other hand...