The Modern Travelers’ Green Zine’s Philly-Inspired Root Beer & Pretzel Float

Philly Root Beer & Pretzel Float by Nicole Taylor

Looking to escape your corner of the world, for a historic city whose bells toll the sound of freedom? Philadelphia is not just famous for the Liberty Bell and being America’s first capital. It’s also an historic culinary bastion for African-American chefs becoming successful entrepreneurs. After all, Philly is where George Washington’s favorite slave, Hercules, escaped as Washington was preparing to return to Mt. Vernon. And, despite Washington’s best efforts to recapture him, the city of Brotherly Love never returned Hercules.
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Knockout Peanut Butter Smoothie Sweepstakes: Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter and Coconut Smoothie

Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter and Coconut Smoothie

“I think we make a real sharp couple of coconuts—I’m dumb, you’re shy, whaddaya think, huh?” – Rocky

Round 3: Hang in there! This week’s smoothie is for the lovers. Did you get a chance to vote for the White Chocolate and Peanut Butter Hibiscus Smoothie in week one and for last week’s Maple Peanut Butter and Earl Grey Tea Smoothie? Here’s a third chance to win two tickets to see Rocky on Broadway and a year’s supply of Peanut Butter & Co. peanut butter (50 jars). Visit Knockout Peanut Butter Smoothie Sweepstakes to vote and get the recipe for your favorite peanut butter smoothie, such as my Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter and Coconut Smoothie.

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Parade.com: 3 Ways to Spice Up Your Acorn Squash

Spicy Roast Acorn Squash

Even as a so-called health nut, I love winter squashes roasted until they’re buttery and sticky-sweet. They’re drizzled with olive or coconut oil, or a little soft butter is brushed on slices. Perhaps they’re sweetened with brown or coconut sugar, maple syrup or honey. A bit of sea salt and fresh black pepper are sprinkled here and there. In my creative mind, winter squashes are flavored with any combination of herbs and spices. Read more

Parade Magazine: Roast Brussel Sprouts and Wild Brown Rice

Roast Brussel Sprouts and Wild Brown Rice

I personally prefer smoked over fried and roast turkey. The orange-tea smoky flavor infuses the whole bird to render even the breast meat juicy. As my father cooks at least three turkeys, each using a different cooking technique mentioned above, he’s also preparing several carb-loaded side dishes.  Read more

A Sappy Love for Tonewood Maple

Maple Pecan Granola

Like most kids, I grew up with pseudo maple syrup. I can’t recall the first time Mother Nature’s version was introduced to my kitchen, but the switch to the real sap had to be an immediate choice over the brand with corn syrup and caramel color. When Tonewood Maple Syrup approached MyLifeRunsOnFood.com to participate in their Tasting Troupe program, I didn’t hesitate to answer yes. Tonewood Maple Syrups are pure, unblended, doesn’t have artificial flavors and they work with small farmers. A portion of all sales is donated to 1% for the Planet to support University of Vermont’s Proctor Maple Research Center’s* climate change research efforts with a focus on improving harvesting technology and understanding maple trees.  Read more