Make It Pretty Cooking

A lot of you have been asking me about what's next in the journey of Make It Pretty Cooking. As I finalize this next exciting phase, I'm also happy to be chosen as a finalist for Food Network's Fave Chef competition. Because it's a competition, I need votes, (and y'all know your internet cousin is an introvert so this "ask" is giving me a ton of anxiety). You can vote every day! If selected, I'll not only win $25k, but will make appearances on the network AND be on the cover of Taste of Home! THANK YOU!! Link to vote in comments.

I was chatting with a friend last week about "Dry January"? Are you starting this New Year off dry? Basically dry January is a term for someone taking a break from drinking. If January will be dry for you, I'm sharing a few of my favorite "mocktails" you can still enjoy and also look the part! No need to stick to water, ask your bartender for the some of my recommendations below!

Virgin Mojito - so there's still quite a bit of muddling involved in a virgin mojito, so depending on the bartender, they’ll either love your order or hate it. The only difference is the lack of rum. Soda water, sugar, and generous mint leaves make this one a refreshing choice.

Non-Alcoholic Old Fashioned
Leave out the whiskey, and the focus is now on the quality of the ingredients in a virgin old-fashioned. If you’re at a bar that carries non-alcoholic spirits like Seedlip, the spiced version is a great alternative. Otherwise, try an herbal tea with bitters and citrus for a similar flavor.

Virgin Bloody Mary- A virgin bloody mary is one of the easiest brunch cocktails to order while you’re out. It’s the same drink, just without the alcohol. If you’re missing some of the bitterness that comes with vodka, ask if they have olive or pickle juice. A dash of either will add that necessary bitter and salt.

Virgin Margarita - Keep the best ingredients of a classic margarita intact with this virgin version. Lime juice, orange juice, sparkling water, and lemon make for a delicious mix. Ask your bartender if they have agave syrup or a similarly sweet alternative to balance out the citrus. Don't forget the salt rim!

If you're a beer drinker, there are quite a few non-alcoholic beers on the market. Try the Heineken 0.0, Clausthaler original non-alcoholic, or last but not least, the The Brooklyn Brewery special effects hoppy amber!

Cheers to resetting and reassessing!

Are you trying to figure out what to cook for dinner tonight?! THIS is your sign to make my spicy shrimp tacos! Quick and easy, but the flavor is unforgettable. Perfect for those days when you don't want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. If shrimp isn't your thing, definitely substitute with a fish such as tilapia! Recipe pinned in the comments below! 🍤🌮

Cheers, and Happy international women's day to all of the amazing women who are a part of the Make It Pretty tribe! "Your success is my inspiration, for we're strongest when we cheer each other along." Not just today, but for the remainder of the month, I challenge you to celebrate a woman in your tribe. Lift her up, and celebrate her magic!✨ May this gesture fill your heart with an abundance of light and love.
Cheers...Crystal!🥂

It's Super Bowl Sunday! 🏈What's on your menu today? Are you hosting a party or just watching the halftime show? Share your menu below, and check back to see what we're cooking!