Light, Easy Summer Recipes
My favorite light and healthy summer recipes (cocktails included!).
Summer is my favorite season for cooking—the produce is fresh and local, the drinks are cold andtemperatures are perfect for al fresco dining. In the spirit of the season, I've rounded up my go-to Summer recipes that I like to rotate throughout the week or bring to a family gathering. They're light on calories and the bad stuff (like dairy and gluten), but big on flavor:
I love the flavors of this bold dip and spread. It's perfect with tortilla chips or as a spread on wraps and sandwiches. It's easy, fresh and takes minimal prep time.
I'm really into the concept of bowls right now, considering how easy it is to use up all of the leftovers I pick up from the farmer's market and throw them all into one tasty, filling bowl of goodness. This recipe features some of my favorites, like cauliflower, chickpeas and lemon dijon dressing.
3. Paloma
My favorite Summer drink! A Paloma is a classier twist on a margarita, pairing silver tequila with bubbly grapefruit soda and lime. Make a pitcher of these for your next dinner party or barbecue and it's sure to be a hit.
I absolutely adore stuffed peppers, but my favorite would be hands down be poblano. I like to stuff mine with quinoa, sweet potato and chickpea for a vegetarian take. I'll also make a batch with chicken, feta and tomato for a Greek spin. It's fun to experiment with different fillings, as you can't really go wrong. Try this Mexican-inspired version as a healthy alternative on taco night.
5. Yogurt with Cherry Compote and Pistachio
This flavor combination is so unique, but extremely satisfying. I love the tartness of the cherries paired with the salty crunch of pistachio. I like to use an almond milk-based yogurt, like Kite Hill, for a non-dairy base. This would also taste great with coconut milk ice cream.
What are your go-to Summer recipes?
How to Care for Your Succulents
No green thumb? No problem! Here's how to care for your succulents and other indoor plants so they can flourish and grow.
Plants are the easiest way to make a house feel like home. But caring for them can be harder than it looks.
I love succulents and cacti because they are all so unique. There are so many different variations and they add a really cool and curated look to your home. They also make for a great gift!
While they are known for being low-maintenance plants, there's definitely a science to keeping succulents alive. I've owned my fair share of cacti and succulents over the years and have learned a few tricks to keep them healthy and fresh all season long.
Start with the green
Caring for succulents starts with choosing the right one. The more lush and green your plant, the greater the chances of it surviving and living a longer life. Any plants with a gray, purple or blue tint may take some extra TLC to survive indoors.
Let the Light in
First things first: Succulents will not stay alive in dark spaces nor should they be kept in direct sunlight. Even though they originate from the desert, your plants can actually burn in the midday sun. Keep your plants on a windowsill or side table in your home to ensure that your plant gets just enough light to stay healthy. If you're really dedicated, you can buy a grow light!
Water
How much water to give your plants depends on the season. In the warmer months, your plants are growing and will need more water and nutrients in order to flourish. But when it's colder, your succulents will go into a dormant phase and need a lot less water. You should water your succulents once a week with about a cup of water, making sure the soil is moist throughout. Be careful not to overwater your plants, as too much water can be bad for them. I like to keep a plant mister around so I can give them a little spritz during the week. This brass option makes for pretty decor, too!
Pots + Planters
Your pot can also have a big impact on how much your succulent grows. Make sure to plant your succulents and cacti in a pot with a drainage hole in the bottom. While it might be in style to use a tea cup, mason jar or other DIY planter, it's not the best for keeping your plant alive. It's also important to re-pot your succulents once they start getting a little too big for their planter. They need room to grow!
personal Space
Just like people, plants need their breathing room. Give them enough space to flourish and grow. Succulents can grow well in a more compact space when outdoors, but when indoors, it's best to keep them a little further apart so they can get the most sunlight.
The extras
Your succulents need love and attention in order to grow to their full potential. Pay attention to how they are growing and tend to them all differently. Some succulents are low-maintenance and might not need as much light or water, while others will require a bit more TLC.
What tips do you have for growing indoor plants?
A Delicious Summer Seafood Pasta
Not to toot my own horn, but this recipe is restaurant-quality! There’s just something about using fresh, sweet tomatoes that makes a sauce so much better.
I am so excited to share this goodness with you. It’s not only delicious but super healthy and easy to prep. The shrimp and calamari needs to be prepped first, as the marinade helps it absorb all of the flavor. I like to give it at least 30 minutes before I start cooking.
Note that you can mix and match whatever seafood additions you’d like, but this sauce is perfectly delicious on its own. I plan to make it again with clams, but you could add mushrooms or cauliflower to make it vegetarian-friendly or chickpea or brown rice pasta for a gluten-free version.
Pro tip: You’ll want to double the sauce and reserve half before you throw in the seafood—it can last in the fridge for up to 4 days for a quick (and delicious) lunch or dinner.
SUMMER SEAFOD PASTA
for the cherry tomato shallot sauce
4 whole shallots, sliced thin
2 cups ripe cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tbsp. tomato paste
4 garlic cloves, crushed and minced
1/2 c. white wine
1 tbsp. olive oil
1 tsp. sea salt or to taste
Dried oregano, basil, parsley to taste
Optional: crushed red pepper flakes
for the pasta
1 lb. shrimp, tail on
2 tubes calamari, cut into rings
Parmesan cheese, for grating
1/4 c. basil, torn into pieces
Optional: Mussels, scallops, clams, or other seafood of choice
directions
1. Rinse and pat dry shrimp and calamari (or other seafood, if using). Toss in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and crushed red pepper (optional). Let marinade in fridge, covered, for at least 30 mins. or up to 8 hours.
2. Heat lug of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add sliced shallots to pan. Cook for about 5 minutes until they softens and become fragrant. Add garlic and cook for a minute longer.
3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, white wine, spices, and tomato paste to the pan. Simmer until slightly boiling, then turn it down to medium heat and add a big pinch of sea salt. Let it cook down to a nice sauce, stirring frequently.
4. Add uncooked shrimp to sauce until cooked throughly. Add more white wine to thin the sauce if needed, or more tomato paste to thicken.
5. Serve over pasta with grated parmesan, torn basil, and freshly cracked black pepper.
5 Budget Ways to Upgrade Your Bathroom
Whether you're renting your space or looking for a quick weekend project, here are five ways to upgrade your bathroom on a budget.
I've been living in a 2 bedroom home for the past two years and while the space has some wonderful features—hardwood floors! marble countertops! huge windows!—there are bits and pieces that leave a little to be desired.
Dealing with a space that isn't your forever home can be frustrating. You don't want to invest the time and money into something that you won't live in forever, but at the same time, you want your space to feel like it's yours.
Whether you're renting or working with a small budget, here are a few affordable upgrades so you can make the most of your space:
Embrace what you're working with
I'm working with a windowless bathroom at the moment. Natural light in the bathroom wasn't something I identified as a must-have when I was house hunting, but now it's a must on my list. But rather than fight it, I'm working with the challenges that the space has given me. I swapped out the unflattering yellow bulbs for a much more natural hue and left the walls white to really open up the space. Though the bathroom is a bit narrow, I love the high ceilings and marble countertop.
Shop the look
Hand Cream—Grown Alchemist / Charcoal Toothbrush—Binchotan / Mirror—Amazon
Add some greenery
Plants can really liven up the most sterile of spaces. As I mentioned, I'm working with a windowless bathroom that doesn't get enough light to keep anything real alive. I've found some pretty convincing faux options and air plants that add some color and life to the room.
Shop the look
Potted Aloe Plants—Amazon / Artificial Fan Palm—Crate and Barrel / Eucalyptus Bundle—West Elm
Inject some personality
I'm a huge fan of a collected home. I love to add interesting objects and textures to my living spaces. While I'm saving up for my dream home, I've been gathering pieces that I know I'll take with me for years, like this wooden ladder from McGee and Co. that I've been using as extra storage. Even if it's just in the form of pretty product packaging (I'm a huge fan of Aesop products), adding things you love to the space makes it uniquely yours.
Shop the look
Hand Wash—Grown Alchemist / Mint Julep Cup—Amazon / Turkish Hand Towel—Amazon
Texture, texture, texture
I'm not a huge fan of color, but an all-white space can read pretty boring. I like to add contrast with different textures, whether it's glass, rustic wood (like the ladder, above), chunky jute weaves, slate and more. I've been really into Moroccan rugs and patterns to add some interest to the space.
Shop the look
Decorative Ladder—Amazon / Jute Rug—Amazon / Charcoal Toothbrush Holder—Amazon
Adorn the walls
Artwork can go a long way in personalizing the space. Because I don't have windows, I'm faking it with this print from Max Wanger shop. It helps fake the idea of an open space and being outdoors. You can find some affordable prints at shops like Urban Outfitters and Etsy or hit up a local thrift shop for more unique finds.
Shop the look
Cactus Print—Amazon / Little Cactus Print—Minted for West Elm / "The Wait" Print—Max Wanger Shop
*This post may include affiliate links. Thank you for your continued support.
—Olivia
Essentials for Spring Entertaining
Image via Jenni Kayne Home
There’s something about spring that gets me in the mood to entertain. The longer, warmer days, balmy nights… something about the season just puts me in such a good mood. There’s truly nothing I love more than sunshine, fresh air, good music, a crisp glass of rosé, and a beautifully set table to share food and catch up with good friends and family.
I thought it was the perfect time to share my favorite picks for entertaining, especially after I’ve stocked up on a few things that I have been eyeing and can’t wait to share. Below, find a handful of things I have and love. It’s a small collection of things that truly add a special touch to the every day. I’ve also linked some things on my wish list—adding to our wedding registry for sure! xx
FAVORITE ENTERTAINING ESSENTIALS
This is my newest addition and I’m in love! Such a great bowl for serving large salads or grains in style. It’s super light-weight porcelain and so charming! It adds such a statement to your tabletop.
These cotton napkins are so durable, while adding a chic and relaxed look to your table. I have them in white, tan, and stripe. I even keep a stack around for drying dishes because I love the material. Truly a kitchen workhorse and for a great price!
I love having a variety of charming glassware options and Duralex is my brand of choice. The tempered glass is perfect for both hot and cold drinks, and they are incredibly durable. I love the French flair they add to my table, no matter how simple the setting. The Picardie style are by far my favorite and our most-used.
Eclectic and Cozy Home Tour
A cool modern farmhouse in Michigan with lots of personality to go around.
Happy Labor Day weekend! Can you believe that Summer is coming to a close? It's been over 90 degrees here in Charleston, but my mind has been thinking ahead to Fall. I can't wait to get our home ready by adding some cozy accessories and luxurious candles (Diptyque Feu de Bois is my favorite seasonal scent.) One of my favorite ways to get inspired is to pick up a few magazines, trend forecast, scroll through favorite sites and blogs, and get my creative juices flowing.
I'm usually a fan of more pared down spaces, but Michelle Adams, founder of Lonny Magazine, has my mind changed with this modern meets traditional mix that makes up her Michigan home. The colors, textures, laidback farmhouse vibes, and her gorgeous kitchen have me wanting to hit up every antique store to get this collected look. Enjoy!
Get the look:
Built-in bookcases ✓
Bright and airy lighting ✓
Wood panel walls ✓
Open kitchen ✓
Statement accents ✓
All Things Self-Care and Wellness
Everyone tells you not to fuss with trying new skincare and beauty products leading up to your big day—which, as you know, is something I love to do—so I’ve been researching and integrating a bevy of body products that would help me get glowing from neck to toe. And I recently discovered a brand that is too good not to share!
I learned of Pursoma last year when I was looking for clean, nontoxic bath products and have been a fan of the brand ever since. The plant-based, all-natural line of bath and body care will leave you rejuvenated, detoxified—and, yes—glowy! Plus, there’s something so therapeutic about soaking in the bath after a long day or hard workout that’s good for the mind and spirit.
If you’re new to the brand, I recommend their Ritual Wellness Kit as an introduction. It includes an assortment of their lovely bath soaks, as well as a body brush (which I will get into below). After a few weeks of trying out new things and getting a routine in place… my skin has never been so happy! Which is not a common statement that I throw out there in the thick of winter.
My body and complexion tends to run dry and thirsty this time of year, leaving me looking dull. Since starting this ritual and dry-brushing every day, my skin has truly never looked or felt more soft and smooth. Below, find my twice-a-week ritual that is the perfect way to welcome spring with the glowiest, healthiest skin ever.
Step 1: Dry Brush
Dry brushing was something that I’ve always been curious about but never really took the time for. I mean, who wants to add more steps to an already busy regimen? Trust me when I say that this is an absolute game-changer and once you start, you’ll wonder why you hesitated to begin in the first place.
While the tub fills up, I take my body brush and run it over my skin in gentle, circular motions. It feels absolutely incredible and has so many benefits—from increasing circulation to stimulating the lymphatic system to aiding digestion and improving the look of cellulite. Regardless of all of this, it feels fantastic and exfoliates skin for a glow you can’t fake with any product. Even if you don’t have time for a soak, taking time for this single step each day before a shower is worth it.
Step 2: Choose Your Treatment
My favorite thing about Pursoma is that each of their products feels truly personalized. There’s a treatment for whatever ails you, whether it’s sore muscles, feeling under-the-weather, low energy, or if you’re just in need of a digital detox for better sleep. Not that you need a reason for a good soak!
Step 3: Bliss Out
After pouring them into a warm bath, I allow myself to truly disconnect from everything. I tend to overthink things and my mind runs a million miles per minute, but within these moments I allow myself to enjoy the feeling of calmness. Sometimes I’ll enjoy a warm cup of tea, sometimes I don’t. But in these moments, I know it’s ok to focus on just being.
After soaking for the allotted time, I emerge feeling completely rejuvenated and energized. (Unless, of course, I’m using the Digital Detox which is seriously the best sleep aid ever. I feel so incredibly relaxed and ready to curl up in bed afterwards.)
Another thing I love about Pursoma is that I don’t feel the need to use any oils or creams on my skin afterward. Though you totally could if you wanted and the brand makes some beautiful options, which you can find here. The Pursoleil Body Oil is next on my list to try! The lavender and blood orange scent sounds amazing.
But for someone who has been trying to simplify their routine over the years, this has been amazing. A two-step routine to glowy, moisturized skin? Plus, the benefit of total relaxation? Sign me up!
Hopefully this inspires you to take more time for yourself this season, as we shed layers and things once again start to bloom.
Shop more of my Pursoma favorites here:
Do you have any tips or tricks for the perfect bath? Any self-care rituals that have changed the game for you?
