CHOCOLATE-COVERED WAFFLE BITES

If you're entertaining in a pinch, don't fret. These chocolate-covered waffles are the perfect go-to treat for a last-minute party or even everyday snack (I don't judge). I mean, how could you not pair a breakfast favorite with melted chocolate? 

For my toppings I chose crushed pretzel, pistachio, coconut flakes and Maldon sea salt. I obviously gravitate towards the salty side, but feel free to shake it up with your favorite additions. You could even make this snack a little DIY fondue event for your party. Let your guests choose their favorite toppings and make their own waffle bites. You won't have to worry about conversation starters with this one.

CHOCOLATE-COVERED WAFFLE BITES WITH CRUSHED PISTACHIO, COCONUT, CRUSHED PRETZEL & SEA SALT (gluten-free)
Serves 6-8

2 (11oz) bags of semisweet and/or bittersweet chocolate
6 waffles, toasted and cut into triangles
1/4 cup coconut flakes
1/4 cup roasted pistachios, roughly chopped
1/4 cup crushed pretzels pieces
Sea salt to taste

Using a double broiler (or microwave), melt chocolate chips over medium-low heat until completely melted. Dip waffle triangles into melted chocolate and set on parchment lined baking sheet or tray.

( In collaboration with Van's Natural Foods )

SEARED SQUID WITH SERRANO CHILES & LIME

Some may refer to it as calamari, but I call it squid.  It may be weird looking, but it's absolutely amazing, especially when not battered and fried like many people love.  In fact, the first time I truly loved fell in love with squid was a sauteed spicy calamari from a japanese restaurant.  Obviously, they know how to do fish right.

If you're a feel at ease entertaining, I think this would be an entertaining win.  The dish is quick to cook and extremely delicious (and surprising).  If your guests are more comfortable hearing the term "calamari" then throw that at them, but I love the surprise of turning someone's expectations around on a certain ingredient.  All in all, this recipe is great and you should serve it to those you love.

SEARED SQUID WITH SERRANO CHILES, PARSLEY & LIME (Barely adapted from NYT)

1 lb. squid, cleaned and dried well

3-4 tablespoons olive oil

2 serranos, sliced

3 garlic cloves, sliced

1/2 cup chopped parsley

1 lemon, juice

1 lime, juice

Red Pepper Flakes

Sea salt to taste

Clean and dry squid very well.  Spread out on a single-layer layered with paper towels to absorb any moisture.  Once dry, sprinkle with sea salt.

Heat large skillet over high heat.  Let the pan get very hot (without oil) for 2-3 minutes.  Depending on how large your skillet is, you may be able to do this in one batch, but make sure not to overcrowd the squid.  

Add olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan and add squid without moving for at least 1 minute.  This part will be a little dicey as the oil is hot and may spit a little, so be careful.  Let sear, then add sliced garlic, parsley and serannos and cook for about 2 more minutes.

Immediately remove from pan, squeeze with lime/lemon juice and sprinkle with red pepper flakes.  If you need to make another batch, repeat until all squid is seared. Serve (immediately) with rice or crusty bread, if you eat it ;)

JUNE 2014 FAVORITES

This gorgeous series by Danish photographer, Torben Eskerod, of Marseille landscapes filled with the most beautiful color gradations. 

Tavin Boutique based in Los Angeles, CA has some lovely vintages pieces inspiring some serious print & pattern lust.

A new to me food site, Bojon Gourmet, is filled with gorgeous photography, recipes and styling by the talented pastry chef, Alanna Taylor-Tobin.

A few Summer skincare miracles:

DR JART+ Beauty Balm is a paraben and sulfate-free organic makeup light enough for even the hottest days.  Another favorite: One Love Organics hydrating mist from a friend and fellow Clementine Daily editor, Elizabeth Dehn.  All I can say is she totally nailed it on this one.

DIMES NYC - Finally a place serving the California hippie food I was raised on.  This is the kind of stuff I eat daily, and now I don't always need to make it myself.

A perfect hand-woven bag from CISTANTHE made from the bark of the native Kurrajong and Sand Palm trees.  A shop that takes a modern interpretation on ancient traditions including the most amazing block-printing, hand-embroidery and hand-woven creations.  The founder, Bailey Hunter, is also one of my closest friends who happens to be an amazing person and entrepreneur.