Showing posts with label Foodie. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Foodie. Show all posts

Check Out Columbia's Hottest New Smoothie Shop, Blenders: Smoothies + Juice


There are a variety of restaurants you can find in downtown Columbia. However, it was missing one thing for health enthusiasts and fruit lovers on the go: a juice bar. With the official opening of Blenders: Smoothies + Juice in August, that’s no longer a problem.

Owner Kieran McBride previously worked at a smoothie shop in Kansas City before moving to Columbia three years ago. Combining his aspirations to open a business and the lack of a smoothie shop in downtown Columbia, McBride opened a store of his own.


In addition to basic smoothies, the Blenders' menu also consists of new smoothies created by McBride and the shop’s Facebook followers. In the shop and on their website, the smoothies are divided into six categories: citrus, tangy, sweet, smooth, active and gonzo. Blenders makes it easier for customers to choose smoothies based on the flavors they want.

Devil’s Icebox (strawberry, banana, Greek yogurt) and Hawaiian Elvis (orange, strawberry-lemonade, pineapple, mango) prove to be the crowd’s favorites so far.

If you’re still confused on what to get from Blenders, feel free to tell McBride what your favorite fruits are. Everybody’s taste buds are different, and he’ll provide you some options to satisfy them.

As if that’s not exciting enough, Blenders also sells warm pretzels and hot cider, which is perfect for the cold weather.

Head over to Blenders on 308 S. Ninth Street, Suite 113.

Check out their website. You can even order online to have your order ready once you get there!

Once you’ve had the Blenders experience, feel free to like their Facebook and follow their Twitter page. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

A big thanks to Blenders for their contributions to our fashion show "What's Your Muse?," which takes place this Sunday at 8 p.m. at Muse Clothing in downtown Columbia.

By: Sazanka Idris | Images: Source

Dive into Dessert: St. Louis' Top 5 Picks


Image Source

Cakes, cookies and pies, oh my! Who doesn’t love dessert? It’s the tastiest and most enjoyable part of any meal, and it rightfully deserves to be saved as the best for last. Chocolate wears the crown as my go-to sweet, while cupcakes come in at a close second. Do you fancy my top picks, or are you just looking to indulge in something sugary? My advice is to fill up at one of these St. Louis favorites —they’ll make you scrape your plate and put a smile on your face.
1401 St. Louis Avenue
St. Louis, MO 63106
(314) 621-9650


Open since 1913, Crown Candy Kitchen is “one of St. Louis’ oldest and most popular attractions,” according to the Kitchen’s website. Here you’ll find a host of homemade goodies ranging from toffee bricks to the beloved “Fire Chief Special,” which is made with two scoops of ice cream (blended in the shop’s antique copper candy kettle, of course), drizzled with chocolate sauce and topped with strawberries, sliced bananas, crushed nuts, whole pecans, whipped cream and a cherry. Savor the love that has been added into every confection offered on Mondays through Thursdays between the hours of 10:30 a.m. and 8 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays between 10:30 a.m. and 9 p.m. and on Sundays between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.

4224 South Grand Boulevard
St. Louis, MO 63111
(314) 352-7376

6726 Chippewa
St. Louis, MO 63109
(314) 481-2652


Have you tried an infamous yellow cup of Ted Drewes? Differentiated from traditional ice cream by its use of less air, the smooth and creamy texture of frozen custard makes for the perfect way to end any warm day. Made customizable with a variety of flavors and toppings, Ted Drewes pleases the masses. You can even choose from a menu of specialty items if strawberry shortcakes and cookie sandwiches are more your thing. Whatever the case is, two locations are open daily to satisfy your cravings.

2641 Cherokee Street
St. Louis, MO 63118
(314) 932-5758


Prepare to say goodbye to any preconceived ideas of what an ice cream cake ought to look and taste like because I Scream Cakes has been challenging the status quo for quite some time now. The bakery prides itself on incorporating only natural flavors, organic eggs, milk, sugar and butter into their products, so what you see not only appears to be better, but it’s also better for you. Stop settling for your grocer’s rendition of cake and ice cream – place your order now!

6483 Chippewa
St. Louis, MO 63109
(314) 352-2253


Every city has its staple foods, and for St. Louis, gooey butter cake, well, it takes the cake. The legend of this unique treat states that “a baker put too much sugar in a regular butter cake [and] not wanting to waste the cake, he simply mixed in additional ingredients,” explains Gooey Louie’s official website. Just one bite, and you too will become a fan of Mr. Gooey Louie, the cake that was voted as the best “Goo in the Lou” and featured on the Food Network. Go and witness firsthand how a St. Louis classic is crafted. Both stores are open Tuesdays through Fridays from 8:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

8509 Delmar Boulevard
St. Louis, MO 63124
(314) 993-5455


There are so many great things to say about Jilly’s! Even before its win on the Food Network’s Cupcake Wars, I was a frequent admirer of the bakery’s gourmet creations. If how the miniature cakes are presented isn’t amazing enough, just wait until the moment your fork splits into one of their stuffed centers. In addition to cupcakes, Jilly’s new ice cream flavors are said to send you over the moon into euphoric delight. But it gets better: if you’re not near Jilly’s flagship location, they deliver! For more information, check out www.S2YD.com, or give the folks at Jilly’s a call.

By: Brianna Arps

8 Great Ways to Paint the Town Red


As a native of St. Louis, I thought I had done and seen it all when it came to going out and spending time with my significant other. Finding alternative ideas in and around the city seemed almost impossible until my eyes were opened to several spots positioned off the beaten path. Let your search for the perfect date end here. Listed below are eight great ways to paint the town red.

The Romantics

 Baileys’ Chocolate Bar
1915 Park, in Lafayette Square
St. Louis, MO 63104
(314) 241-8100

Break the rules by skipping dinner and diving fork first into a delectable dessert at this posh pastry palace. As the recipient of a host of rave reviews and awards, Baileys’ Chocolate Bar is highly regarded for its spin on everyone’s childhood favorites in addition to a list of unconventional treats intended to cater to even the most mature palette. Stop by between the hours of 4 p.m. and 1 a.m. on Mondays through Saturdays or between 4 p.m. and midnight on Sundays to satisfy your sweet tooth and your date’s chocolate cravings.

Kitchen Conservatory
8021 Clayton Road
St. Louis, MO 63117
(314) 862-2665

Interested in working side-by-side with your guy? Want to learn how to spice up both your favorite recipes and a date night or two? The Kitchen Conservatory, also known as “the premier kitchen store in St. Louis, Missouri for 28 years,” according to its website, is home to more than 800 different cooking classes that are “taught by the best chefs from the best restaurants.” Whether you choose an Asian, Italian or Cajun theme, you’ll be amazed with your plated results.

The Thrill Seekers

 Pole Position Raceway
8800 Watson Road
St. Louis, MO 63119
(314) 925-7545

If you’ve got a real need for speed, Pole Position Raceway is your perfect destination. Join in with another couple during their weekend hours (11 a.m. until midnight on Fridays, 10 a.m. until midnight on Saturdays and 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. on Sundays) and enjoy a friendly go-kart competition on one of their indoor tracks. With the Raceway’s “Arrive & Drive” package, kart speeds reach up to 45 mph, so buckle up and hold on tight, for this one will have you driving laps of love around your one-man pit crew.

Gateway Paintball
14510 Missouri Bottom Road
Bridgeton, Missouri 63044
(314) 298-3772

I’ve never gone paintballing, but from what I’ve heard, it’s an exhilarating experience that must be tried out at least once. It’s true that “you don’t have to be athletic to play, just let your imagination loose and challenge yourself on our custom designed fields,” explains the folks at Gateway Paintball on their website. Don’t hesitate to check out Gateway’s open play schedules; transform a mundane outing into one that promises “the ultimate adrenaline rush and lots of excitement and action.”

The Eccentrics
10907 Manchester Road
Kirkwood, MO 63122
(314) 965-2262

“Relax, have fun, be creative,” and most importantly, get your craft on at the Painted Zebra! I’m positive that I’m not the only one who’s lacking in the artistic department, and to those who’ve also raised their hand to this fact, I’ve got great news: the attendants there are helpful and are happy to show you to a plethora of idea books, stencils, brushes and paint that will bring out the pottery proficiency in all of us. It gets even better! Every two weeks on Friday evenings, the Painted Zebra offers a 25 percent discount on studio time, which allows for individuals to discover their hidden potential talents as an artist for less.

Jazz At The Bistro
3536 Washington Avenue
St. Louis, MO 63103
(314) 289-4030

Located in St. Louis’ Grand Center arts district, Jazz at the Bistro is where many prefer to cozy up and listen to the smooth sounds and tasteful tunes of talented musicians. Reserve your seats to an upcoming show and receive the bonus of paying student fare with a valid ID. The Bistro recommends “arriving between 6-6:30 p.m. if you would like to be finished with dinner before the show starts.” But, if you prefer to dine after those times, “the Bistro does serve tables during the performances,” according to Jazz St. Louis’ website.

The Outdoor Adventurers

 Pere Marquette Stables
15780 State Highway 100 West
Grafton, IL 62037
(618) 786-2156

Ditch picnicking, and instead, saddle up with your beau and take a horseback ride through the magnificent Pere Marquette State Park. Pere Marquette Stables leads groups down trails where local wildlife is plentiful and often seen, so prepare to witness the beauty of nature and all it entails. Although reservations are not required, they are recommended and accepted Wednesday through Monday during the months of May through October. Yee-haw!

Grafton Zipline Adventures
800 Timber Ridge Dr.
Grafton, IL 62037
(618) 786-8439

“Take a zip...it’s a trip,” exclaims Grafton Zipline Adventures on its website. If you’re not afraid of heights or are looking to finally face your fears, consider elevating your daytime plans to a higher, more extreme level. Guests will virtually fly safely atop tree-top canopies on nine ziplines during their 2-hour tour. After, replenish at the Aeries Restaurant and Winery located approximately 300 yards from the last stop. Sound’s like fun, right? Make sure to book your trip ahead of time as reservations are required.

By: Brianna Arps | Image: Source

Eat This Not That: Movie Munchies

Image Source

In my opinion, one of the best parts about going to the movies is the GLORIOUS FOOD. With so many gorgeous-ahem ...*good* movies out (hello, Henry Cavill as Superman; oh, nice to see you again, Channing Tatum in "White House Down"), this summer is a prime time for movie watching (can you say air-conditioned theaters? I can). Yeah, it might be 10 bucks a ticket, but nothing is better than movie theater popcorn. Unfortunately, like most delicious things in life, it’s also not so good for you. Here are some of my picks for healthier movie snacks.

Instead of: Hersheys Chocolate Bar
Munch on: Junior Mints


A basic rule for eating healthy at a movie theater is to just avoid any and all candy bars (sigh). Junior Mints are still covered in delicious dark chocolate, but they’re also pepperminty and much better for you than a good ol’ king size milk chocolate bar ... as nice as that sounds.

Instead of: DOTS
Munch on: Swedish Fish/Gummy Bears


I love DOTS, but they’re definitely not the best for me or my cavity-prone sweet tooth. Try to find sugar-free something, like Swedish Fish or Gummy Bears to satisfy your chewy, sweet craving with a little less guilt.

Instead of: Butterfingers
Munch on: Tootsie Rolls


Butterfingers are the best, but they have the word “butter” in there for a reason, ladies. Tootsie Rolls now come in lots of different flavors besides classic chocolate, and they’re chewy, which means that you’ll spend more time actually eating them and less time eating in general. It’s super easy to overeat while watching a movie, so just be conscious of how much you’ve eaten and how full you are.

And if you really want popcorn? Go for the smaller size. Yes, getting a large popcorn means you have more to share with your friends or your cute date, but seriously. In a study by Brian Wansink at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, he discovered that people ate up to 50 percent more popcorn when eating out of a large bucket than a medium sized one, even though when polled after the film, they guessed they had eaten less than they actually did.

Go for the smaller size, cut back on the salt (which will only dehydrate you), or spring for kettle corn. You’ll thank yourself later.

But hey, if you’ve earned a splurge? Go for it! Just make sure to do everything in moderation. There’s nothing sweet about a 24/7 sweet tooth. Trust me!

By: Alise Murawski

Restaurant Review: Casablanca Mediterranean Grill

Image Source

Restaurant: Casablanca Mediterranean Grill
Address: 501 Elm St. Columbia Mo
Food type: Mediterranean
Price point: $16 and below

We think Casablanca Mediterranean Grill is by far one of the best restaurants in Columbia. If you have not tried this restaurant yet, be sure to put it on your list. If you are a fan of mediterranean food, you will definitely be pleased with the wide array of choices. If you have never even tried mediterranean, then it is probably time you take a chance, and this is the place to do it at!

Casablanca is located right at the beginning of downtown, so it is an easy walk from campus to grab a quick lunch. They also are student budget friendly, with appetizers starting at $1.95 and the biggest plate, the Sultan, costing still only $15.95. Most meals are between $5 and $10, so it won’t kill your wallet by any means.

The food is always fresh and very delicious. They have all sorts of choices, including Falafel, Gyros, Couscous, Shish Kabobs and Hummus just to name a few options. If you are not familiar with mediterranean food, the menu does a great job at describing the items, plus the staff is very friendly and will explain any item to you in a heartbeat. Many meals come with the choice of beef, lamb, chicken or vegetarian, so they can suit any taste.

I would recommend the House Gyro for those new to mediterranean food -- it is a pita bread filled with spiced beef, lettuce, tomato, onion and feta cheese served with choices of hummus, hot sauce or tanziki sauce. This is a great introduction to the tastes and style of Mediterranean food without being overwhelmed. For those more accustomed to the style, I would suggest the Mediterranean Plate, which has two dolmas and two falafel and comes with rice, hummus and pita bread. If your meal does not come with rice, I highly recommend getting it as a side -- it is always moist, fluffy and has the perfect amount of spices.

By: Lindsay Laderoute

6 Restaurants to Try in Downtown Columbia

Image Source

Columbia is way more than just a college town; it's also full of delicious treats! See what downtown hotspots you must check out to satisfy any hunger pains.

Shakespeare’s Pizza

Image Source

Shakespeare’s is so close to campus, so there’s no reason not to stop by! Their pizza is really good, and freshmen get to try a slice for free as part of Fall Welcome. However, there is more to this local business than a school event. On weekdays, you can buy a slice of pizza for lunch. The red cloth napkins and hand-etched menu add to the friendly, unique atmosphere of Shakespeare’s. For a quick Shakespeare’s fix, watch the chefs hand-toss pizza at the corner of Ninth and Elm streets.

Sparky’s Ice Cream

Image Source

Sparky’s is just down the street from Kaldi’s Coffee. They are known for their weird flavors. They also have more familiar flavors if you don’t want Cicada ice cream. Don’t forget to take a picture by the statue of a bulldog.

Booches 

Image Source

Booches burgers are one of the best in America, according to USA Today. They ranked in the top 10 in 2000. They only take cash, so be prepared. Nothing on the menu is over $7.25. You can watch them make the burgers from the sidewalk outside.

Upper Crust Bakery

Image Source

For delicious pastries and sandwiches on fresh baked bread, look no further than Upper Crust. The bakery is open for breakfast, lunch and sometimes dinner. You can eat on the patio during the summer, if you want.

Hot Box Cookies

Image Source

Hot Box Cookies are warm, gooey and just a delivery order away. A single cookie is one dollar. However, if you want a specific flavor, it may be best to call ahead. Hot Box bakes its cookies in batches of 12, so if you just want one, you should check to see if they have it in-store. My personal favorite is the Red Velvet Cookie.

Kaldi’s Coffee

Image Source

Kaldi’s is the coffee shop of choice for many Columbia residents. They have unique flavors, like Aztec Hot Chocolate and Mayan Mocha. The downtown branch also serves lunch. However, for students who don’t want to go downtown, there are two mini-Kaldi’s on campus. One is at Ellis Library, and one is at the Reynolds Journalism Institute.

By: Jennifer Beatty

Why You Need to Drink More Tea


The summer months can leave you quite parched with severe heat and outdoor activities. Although it’s important to drink lots of water to stay hydrated, don’t turn a blind eye on other drinks that can be great for you, like tea! Tea has great health benefits, including helping you lose weight and making your skin look better. No matter what your taste preference may be, we have outlined the benefits of three different types of teas to help you find the perfect one to sip on during your summer days.

Green Tea

  • Ever heard of those nasty things called free radicals? They attach to DNA and slowly damage it. Green tea has tons of antioxidants called catechins in it that help stop the damage free radicals cause. 
  • Protect yourself from cancer by drinking green tea. Studies have shown it can help lower the risk for many types of cancer, including breast, skin and stomach cancer. 
  • Banish bad cravings, at least somewhat, by drinking more green tea. Green tea helps balance blood sugars and helps keep your energy level, so you don’t have any annoying spikes and crashes that lead to you feeling agitated, tired and craving junk food. 

Oolong Tea

  • Protect your smile! This tea helps prevent plaque buildup on teeth and tooth decay. Oolong tea helps combat bacteria, giving you fresher breath, too! 
  • Oolong tea helps speed up metabolism so you burn more calories -- an added bonus for swimsuit season. It also increases lipolysis, the system that burns fats and prevents them from staying in your body. 
  • If you struggle with eczema or similar skin problems, drinking three cups of oolong tea a day can help manage symptoms. In one study, patients saw immense improvement with their skin in one week. 

Chamomile Tea

  • Fight off colds by drinking more chamomile tea! Studies have shown that chamomile tea helps boost the immune system and fight infections. 
  • Dealing with cramps is no fun at all. Chamomile tea can help relieve them thanks to an amino acid it helps create that relaxes muscle spasms. 
  • Sleep better by drinking chamomile tea before bed. It acts as a mild sedative and can help you relax and destress after a long day. 

By: Lindsay Laderoute

2 Easy Microwaveable Egg Recipes



Egg Sandwich
Start to finish: 2 minutes
Serves 1

Ingredients:

  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Bagel
  • Optional toppings: tomatoes, spinach, cheese, hot sauce, etc.


Preparation:
1. In a small plastic bowl mix together the egg, salt and pepper. Microwave for 1 minute and 30 seconds, stopping every 20 seconds or so. Make sure the egg is not runny.
2. Put the egg mixture and toppings between bagel halves. Enjoy!
For a fluffier egg mixture you can use two eggs, but you will need to microwave for about 30 more seconds.

Scrambled Eggs
Start to finish: 1 minute
Serves 1

Ingredients:

  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon of milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste


Preparation:
1. Mix together all ingredients in a plastic bowl. Microwave for 1 minute.

By: Jennifer Beatty 

How to Make Monkey Bread in your Microwave

Image Source

Monkey bread is a little like a cinnamon roll, but you get to tear it with your hands! I had several people stop by the kitchen to ask what the delicious smell was. It is almost like a cinnamon sugar scrub that you can eat. This version is filling and sweet, so it is perfect for sharing. It took a little trial and error, but this is the easiest way I’ve found to make monkey bread in the microwave.


MICROWAVE MONKEY BREAD
Start to finish: five minutes (cooking time: one minute and 20 seconds)
Servings: 4

Image: Jennifer Beatty

Ingredients:
  • ¼ cup water
  • ¼ tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp of cinnamon
  • 8 tsp of sugar
  • 1 can of refrigerated or frozen pizza dough, room temperature

Directions:

1. Fill a plastic microwave-safe dish with water, so that the bottom of the dish is covered in about one centimeter (0.4 inches) of water. Add the vanilla extract, half the cinnamon and half the sugar. Stir.

2. Microwave uncovered for 10 seconds. Continue microwaving for 15 more seconds.

3. Break off a quarter-sized piece of the pizza dough and roll it into a small ball. Roll the ball in the water, which should be warm but not hot. Place the ball of dough in the plastic dish. Repeat for the rest of the dough.

4. Microwave uncovered for one minute and 20 seconds.

5. Pour out any excess water. You can save it if you want a glaze. Sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon and sugar on top of the bread. Let the bread rest for one-to-two minutes because it will be hot!

6. Enjoy!

This recipe was adapted from here.

By: Jennifer Beatty

Friend or Foe: Energy Drinks

Image Source

I’m not a huge fan of energy drinks; coffee is and always will be my go-to pick me up, whether it’s iced or practically scalding. However, since starting at Mizzou, I’ve used energy drinks more and more as a quick boost. One thing I can say? I’m paranoid about what I put into my body (closet health nut over here), but they really do work when used in moderation. Despite my doing this review, I DO recommend you have a healthy skepticism about energy drinks as well ... it’s just not natural to pump your body full of temporary caffeine. Keep that in mind!

So first things first: I can’t stand Red Bull. At all. I’ve always been slightly weirded out by the marketing (Why do I need wings? I don’t like wings. Is that healthy, to sprout wings? That just doesn’t seem right...), but I decided to put my prejudices aside and give it a shot one early morning this past Friday. I’m sitting in the car dealership waiting for the outrageous bill for fixing my adorable Honda CRV (reppin’ dat soccer mom lyfe), and I crack open a can of sugar free Red Bull (that suspicious can in that suspicious light blue color all suspicious-like).
Image Source

Uhm. Okay. Maybe it’s just me, but is it supposed to taste like carbonated cough syrup?! It was awful! I could only finish half the can! And besides the shock to my taste buds, it really wasn’t all that effective. Maybe I should’ve given the regular Red Bull a try, but honestly, I don’t think I’m going near that brand again ANY TIME SOON. It’s not you, Red Bull, it’s me. Peace.



Another drink I’ve been dying to try, but can’t find anywhere, is V8 V-Fusion + Energy. I absolutely adore V8’s V-Fusion drinks because they’re not only delicioso (*hair flip* I only took three years of grammar school Spanish), but also provide one combined serving of vegetables and fruit. These drinks, according to their website, use green tea and B vitamins for their energy kick, not extra sugar or caffeine. I still don’t know how effective they are, but I’m definitely more likely to put B vitamins in my body than the extra sugar found in Red Bull.

And with flavors like Orange Pineapple, Peach Mango and Pomegranate Blueberry? I just ... I can’t ... give me a moment. I’m drooling.



Lastly, for my fellow caffeine-addicts and mocha-lovers, Starbucks has an energy drink line called DoubleShot Energy. It comes in lots of different flavors (shoutout: Mocha and White Chocolate are the best!), and I pick mine up at any Mizzou Market on campus. It’s definitely coffee, and maybe it’s just conditioning, but I’m alert as soon as I have a few sips. It was such a staple in my life during finals week that I started to scare my natural-healthy-body-self. For me, it’s effective for a few good hours (around four or five), but there is a crash, like any other energy supplement. I just like that this line of drinks not only tastes familiar (mmmmm coffee) but also, like V8, avoids too many excessive sugars in their drinks in favor of B vitamins, guarana and ginseng. (Know that any energy drink is going to have quite a lot of sugar in it, but you can shop smart to mostly get the “lesser evil” of energy drinks.)

OH, HOLD ON, WAIT. Almost forgot! I just looked at Starbuck’s website, and they have a line of energy drinks taking after their Refreshers campaign! There a three flavors, and they look quite similar to the V8 drinks. Apparently they use green coffee extract, but also real fruit juice, B and C vitamins and ginseng to make it more like fruit juice and less like coffee. I’M SO EXCITED!

Anyway, keep in mind that how you wake up is entirely your own business. But if you want to keep things healthy and light, a great tip is to drink one giant whole glass of water before you do anything, right when you wake up. Your body naturally wakes up dehydrated, so you’re more likely to be tired. This trick always helps me in the mornings, and it’s become kind of a ritual. I love natural fruit juices, too ... apple, orange, cranberry, even pineapple! They’re all pretty simple options and are phenomenal for you. But hey! If you want to grab a Red Bull once in a while, go right ahead. Just know that it won’t make up for consistently inconsistent sleeping patterns. Show your body some love, and it’ll show you some right back!

This article is a part of Alise's weekly column focusing on fun food ideas. 

By: Alise Murawski

The Hidden Gem of Sugared Sodas


Did you know that the U.S. is the only country that uses high fructose corn syrup in its soft drinks? Now from nutrition classes, I’ve learned that there’s not much difference between high fructose corn syrup and sugar. Their atomic structures are similar, and both are sweet. However, there’s a big taste difference when it comes to the real thing.

Two weeks ago I was in Haiti where I got to try American sodas with real sugar. It was amazing how different they were! Sugared sodas are crisper and still as sweet, yet the aftertaste let more of the carbonation shine instead of being really sweet afterwards. Naturally, I’ve been searching for more of the real sugar sodas.

I found some at a grocery store, tucked away in the soda/tea corner. There were several options, but I decided to get two bottles of “European Soda” from World Classics Trading Company. I walked out of the store with pink lemonade and blood orange flavors.

The pink lemonade was sweet and lemony. These sodas are very fizzy, so be careful when opening! In the end, the layer of bubbles on the top was my least favorite part of the pink lemonade soda. I probably should have refrigerated it before I actually drank it, oops!

The blood orange was my favorite. It tasted a little like lemons at the beginning. The sour would kick in and then fade into sweet. It almost tasted like grapefruit! In my opinion, blood orange could have won for just its vibrant pink hue.

I also tried some of the other sodas they had for sale. Jones Soda is good; it’s sweeter than the World Classics and is not as carbonated. My favorite Jones Soda flavor is the blue raspberry, but the green apple is also yummy! For the more adventurous drinker, there is DRY Soda. They have flavors like rhubarb, juniper berry and vanilla bean. I considered buying a lavender flavored soda, but it came in a pack of four, and I didn’t want to waste any of it.

I think this variety of natural and ethnic sodas helps introduce people to the fun of world cuisines. Who knows? Perhaps a trip to Paris is only an Edith Piaf song and a pink lemonade away.

By: Jennifer Beatty | Image: Source

Shopping List: Healthy Essentials

Image Source

Living in a dorm can be a drag for a lot of reasons, and the lack of access to fresh food is one of them. You will find yourself eating Easy Mac and Nutella on crackers for meals consistently, which just isn’t healthy. They don’t call it the “Mizzou 22” for nothing. Furthermore, you’ll do better in school (and have better skin, hair, nails, attitude, etc., look up those studies, girls) if you eat a healthy, balanced diet. Need I say more?

So how to solve this dilemma: convenience or health-conscious? Good news: you don’t have to choose! Here are a few of my essential snacks that I keep in my dorm for late-night study sessions or midday hunger pangs. They’re all the perfect mix of healthy and delicious (I promise. I hate nasty health food. Dry, unflavored granola? No thank you!). Pick some of these up the next time you’re out!

Popcorn
Honestly, this is the easiest thing to keep in a dorm, and it’s as great for you as it is fun to eat. Un-popped bags store flat on a shelf, or you can just leave them in the box. You can get un-popped kernels and pop them yourself (ugh work), or just buy already-popped stuff in a bag. The options, my friends, are literally endless. Two of my picks are below.



Skinny Pop popcorn is already popped and available in both a big bag or in individual serving-size bags for on-the-go snacking. It’s only 39 calories a cup and tastes pretty addictive. I’d be surprised if you didn’t eat twice as much...because I’ve never done that...

I’ve been known to wolf down an entire bag of microwave popcorn in one sitting (still do, no shame). But these Orville Redenbacher’s Smart Pop Single Serve microwave bags are a lifesaver. At 100 calories each, they’re pretty lean snacks and great for mindless munching. And even though they’re 94 percent fat free, they come in both classic butter and kettle corn flavors.

Crackers/Pretzels and Nutella/Peanut Butter



Seriously, if you find yourself craving a sweet/salty fix, these are for you. My roommate was obsessed with peanut butter and crackers and I never got it until I tried it. Peanut butter is protein, and it’ll fill you up (along with the carbs in the crackers) to keep you going until your next meal. Nutella is less healthy, but paired with pretzels, it’s a phenomenal late night treat.

But don’t just take my word for it! Mix and match! Try out different crackers and spreads. Allergic to peanut butter or nuts? Try SoyNut Butter; all the peanut taste, none of those pesky (or dangerous) reactions. Personally, I love saltine crackers alone, but those could get super boring for people. Triscuts are great too, as are Wheat Thins. And they’re all great for you! Plus if you run out of crackers, hellooo spoonfuls of peanut butter. Remember: no shame.

Fruit

Fresh fruit is notoriously hard to come by on campus, and apples, oranges and bananas can get a little monotonous after a while. Try to swing by Wal-Mart or a grocery store and pick out foods that won’t go bad fast. I love apples because they keep for a pretty long time, and they’re packed with fiber. If you don’t have a fridge in your dorm/apartment, try dried fruit slices. You’ll get the same amount of antioxidants and fiber, but they’ll keep for way longer. Trust me, there’s nothing worse that throwing out food you never even got the chance to eat. I like dried apricots, dried bananas, or raisins. Plus, there’s no excuse not to try the raisins. They sell them covered in yogurt or chocolate. That’s a beautiful thing. Of course, you don’t have to pick apples, either. But you know the saying...an apple a day...

Veggies
Image Source

The same rule can be applied to veggies, except I’ve really never come across a dried veggie I liked. The only vegetable tip I’ve totally mastered would be a bag of baby carrots. Those little babies are super good for you and perish fairly slowly in a fridge.

Nuts

Image Source

I love nuts, especially almonds, peanuts and cashews. They’re so unbelievably easy to store and they’re phenomenal for your body and mind. Throw a handful or two in a plastic baggie for on-the-go snacking! Trail mix is also a healthy alternative (you can make your own by just mixing your favorite nuts, dried fruit and some semisweet chocolate chips in a bag!).

I hope I’ve helped you gals out in some way, and if not, let me know in the comments! What are your favorite healthy dorm snacks?

This article is a part of Alise's weekly column focusing on fun food ideas.

By: Alise Murawski

Easy Ways to Live Healthy Without the Sacrifice


As warm weather approaches, most of us are still trying to get those beautiful beach bodies for the summer. What people lack is knowing how to be healthy and beautiful. Living a healthy lifestyle may not seem so easy because it usually means expensive exercise machines, strange organic foods and lots of time wasted. No fear, College Gloss is here! (Please excuse the corniness...)

As far as diet goes, eating healthy does not necessarily correlate with organic. Healthy is treating your body right -- physically and emotionally. Don’t sacrifice time going to your local natural store and spending hours trying to figure out what is what. Use items in your fridge now to create some five star meals! Pinterest is a great way to find recipes.

1. Olive Oil: Cooking with olive oil helps get rid of the greasy fat buildup in meats

2. Greens: Color on a plate really is a good sign. Just about any green item from the produce or spice aisle is good for you.

3. Black Pepper: As weird as it may seem black pepper has been linked to helping fight bacteria and benefiting the digestive system.

4. Chili Pepper: Chili peppers may be spicy, but they are great for promoting weight loss and fighting diabetes.

All of these food products can be purchased at your local Wal-Mart for under $5 each and will last for quite some time.

Exercising is simple! There is no need to buy any workout tapes or expensive yoga balls when you can simply download a free app. Not only are they free, but they work around your schedule and keep you on task. A lot of people don't like to sacrifice being comfortable, so they avoid the gym. Getting a reliable group of people together at a set time three days out of the week for a good workout will keep your body happy and healthy, but be sure not to over-do it. Most health specialists note that excessive exercising is actually bad for the body. Remember, being skinny does not necessarily correlate with being healthy, and being overweight doesn't correlate with being unhealthy.

As for life in general, be happy for you. Happiness should not mean sacrificing another essential part of your life. Keep your pockets and body healthy by just learning what is best for you. College may be one of the many climaxes of your life so live it up, College Glossers!

By: Khadijah McGill | Image: Source

Restaurant Review: Ernie's Café and Steakhouse


For breakfast, Columbia has some great options fairly close to campus. When I told my friend Audrey, who has lived in Columbia for most of her life, I was going to write about the best places to have breakfast, she said, “Oh, you’re going to Ernie’s?”

Columbia residents have voted Ernie’s Café and Steakhouse best breakfast for several years. One of the waiters, Nathan Fuch, is even in a documentary about Columbia service workers. You can watch it here.

The restaurant has one door to enter and one to exit. Inside, there is a long white counter with red bar stools and some tables. The restaurant looks and feels very much like a 1950s or 1960s diner. The kitchen is open and located just to the right of the bar, so I watched the cooks make my French toast. There’s so much cute décor. From the pictures of Audrey Hepburn on the booths to a Specials menu that says, “You. You are special.” Ernie’s made me smile.

Ernie’s serves breakfast the entire time it is open. However, it does close early -- at 2 p.m. I had the special, which includes hash-browns, your choice of French toast or pancakes, your choice of breakfast meat (don’t worry vegetarians, they have meatless sausage!) and your choice of eggs. I also had a glass of orange juice. I’m not entirely sure if it was fresh squeezed or not, but it was good. The eggs were great and did not need any seasoning. The hash-browns actually tasted like potatoes and not just French fries. The French toast was good and came with a warm dish of maple syrup. It was good with and without the syrup. I was very full afterwards—Ernie’s is a good place to get a lot of food.

I can see why Ernie’s won. However, if you have a little extra cash on Sunday, I also recommend Sophia’s brunch. The portions are large, and the Monkey Bread is incredible. There’s a wide variety of unique plates, such as Bacon Pancakes, that you can’t get anywhere else in CoMo.

This review is a part of Jennifer's weekly column where she dines and reviews some of CoMo's favorite restaurants.

By: Jennifer Beatty | Image: Source

5 Perfect Summer Smoothies

Image Source

The warmer weather of summer is the perfect setup for some ice-cold, delicious and simple smoothies! We’ve gotten together some of the tastiest and easiest smoothie recipes ready for you to try this summer. Whether you like sweet, fruity or the kick of coffee, we have found the simple summer smoothie recipe for you.

Banana Breakfast Blast

Image Source

2 ripe bananas
¾ cup low-fat yogurt (plain, vanilla or peach)
½ cup milk
½ tsp vanilla extract
Protein powder of your choice
½ tsp cinnamon
*Add 1 cup of fruit matching yogurt flavor

1. Chop banana, then place all ingredients into blender; blend until smooth.
2. Sprinkle with extra cinnamon.

Tropical Trip 

Image Source

1 papaya, chopped
1 cup pineapple chunks
⅔ cup soy milk
1 ¼ cup yogurt
1 tbsp agave
⅓ lime (juiced)

1. Add all ingredients into blender; blend until smooth.

Green Machine
Image Source

1 small zucchini
1 celery stalk
1 ½ cups baby spinach
1 ½ cup alfalfa sprouts
2 apples
½ tsp pepper
1 tsp Frank’s red hot or other hot sauce

1. Cut up zucchini and place in blender. Chop celery into ½-inch pieces and blend with zucchini.
2. Add spinach, alfalfa and apples; blend until smooth.
3. Add pepper and hot sauce, blend. Add more to taste.

Watermelon Delight

Image Source

½ watermelon or 2 cups cubed
½ cup orange juice
½ cup grapefruit juice
½ lime (juiced)

1. Place all ingredients in blender; blend until smooth.
2. If not sweet enough, add 1 or 2 packets sweetener or 2 tsp sugar.

Mocha Mania 

Image Source

¾ cup milk
¼ cup light cream
1 tbsp brown sugar
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa
1 tbsp instant coffee or ½ cup cold coffee
6 ice cubes
Whipped cream

1. Place milk, cream and sugar into blender and blend until combined.
2. Add cocoa and coffee; blend until combined. Add ice cubes and blend until smooth.
3. Top with whipped cream.

By: Lindsay Laderoute

Columbia Restaurant Review: The Rome

Image Source

Perhaps my expectations were too high, but The Rome at 114 S. Ninth St. was entirely adequate. I decided to try this local Italian restaurant because it is a short walk from campus, and I wanted to support a local business.

Second-generation Italians Dan Colace and Cory Hodapp opened The Rome to make affordable Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients, according to the restaurant’s website. They succeeded -- many of the entrees are less expensive than Olive Garden. The most expensive item on the menu is an appetizer called the Rome Platter at $19.95. Veal and steak entrees cost more than the chicken and vegetarian ones. However, you could possibly have a meal cost under $10, if you chose a sandwich, Stromboli, pizza or calzone.

The wide variety of options made it difficult for me to choose one dish.The menu includes pizza, sandwiches (including calzones and strombolis) and 33 pasta entrees. The waitress suggested the Baked Penne Salsicce, Penne Pesto and Homemade Baked Five Cheese Macaroni. I decided to have the Salsicce with Bruschetta for an appetizer. My date had the Baked Eggplant Parmagiana, and we shared the Devil’s Tower Cheesecake for dessert. After you order, you get a basket of bread, and I had time to examine the rest of the restaurant.

Image: Jennifer Beatty

The inside of The Rome is spacious, with high ceilings, large tables and a wall devoted to sports posters and memorabilia. The table width actually made it hard to share the dessert, as I had to lean across the table to reach and eat it. I saw several large groups, and I think that would be the best way to experience The Rome. The atmosphere was not cozy enough for a date, yet it wasn’t formal either. I loved the way the bar looked, though. It had a brick wall and a metal sign that said “The Rome.” It looked like an ideal Italian kitchen, and I wish the rest of the restaurant looked that way.

The noise level was a little loud. I talked in a normal voice for most of the dinner, and none of the other diners seemed bothered. I could hear some of what people on the other side of the restaurant said. However, it wasn’t too annoying.

The food was, like the waitress said, “good.” I think it was fine, but it could have been better. The menu described the Baked Penne Salsicce as “Penne tossed in a Creamy Tomato Alfredo with Scallions and a Sweet Homemade Crumbled Sausage Baked with Fresh Mozzarella.” My date described it as “a gourmet version of Easy Mac.” I liked the sausage. It was a little spicy and flavorful, but the sauce was too bland. I added some pepper but still wished there had been some tomatoes or grated Parmesan cheese to spice it up. My date liked the Eggplant Parmagiana but thought the breading wasn’t quite crispy enough. I think the highlight of the night was the pesto on the Bruschetta. It tasted homemade and was very fresh.The cheesecake was more cake-y than creamy, but the chocolate and walnut topping was very good. I ended up just eating that by itself.

The Rome is good Italian food for a college student who doesn’t have much cash or a car. However, you do get what you pay for. The food doesn’t stand out, and there are better Italian restaurants, like Olive Garden, a short drive away.

This review is a part of Jennifer's weekly column where she dines and reviews some of CoMo's favorite restaurants.

By: Jennifer Beatty

How to Throw a BBQ Blowout on a Budget


Finally, school is out and summer has begun! Around this time, there is nothing greater than to be able to store your backpack far away from sight and kick those caffeine cravings brought about by final exams and pinched deadlines to the curb -- even if it’s only for a few months. For most, being home means reconnecting with long-time friends, creating memories and celebrating just for the thrill of it.

Unfortunately, I’ve become all too familiar with the monthly, budget-conscious timestamp that’s been placed on my wallet. Despite it being the season of the sun, the scarce allocation of my funds limits the amount of time spent on recreational activities; although, I wish it didn’t. This means no vacations to Miami or Los Angeles for me anytime soon. So, if you’re like me or just looking for an amazing, less expensive way to get back-to-summer savvy, consider throwing a cookout! Below are a few easy steps to enjoying an evening outdoors with your pals.

1. Where’s the function? Whether big or small, every backyard has potential as a venue for a cookout. Backyards, as well as patio spaces, can be quickly converted from something typical and drab to a scenic view of everything fab! With the help of a creative imagination and a various array of colorful paper lanterns, table decorations, plates, cups and utensils, your event is sure to impress. If the weather doesn’t permit for an outdoors affair, don’t fret. Clear a space indoors, set up your decor accordingly and fire up the George Foreman!

2. Let’s get friendly! What’s a party without people? After choosing a date, a time and a location, your next move should be to send out invites. To be courteous, make sure to send the text message, email or formal invitation at least a week or two before you plan on partying.

3. Fight the food blues! The cost of providing food and beverages for your guests can get pricey depending on the number of guests attending. In order to save money, suggest that each guest bring a side dish of his or her choosing to go along with your prepared, grilled entrees. I must note that when hosting a cookout, especially one on a patio, make sure to leave ample room between your fire source (the grill) and your home to prevent any mishaps from occurring. Instructions in regards to how much space is needed between the two is provided by your grill manufacturer in your owner’s manual.

4. Don’t hide the funk! When I say funk, I mean music of course! After everyone’s been acquainted and had their fill, don’t be shy to encourage the group to bust a move to some of the hottest current and not-so-current tunes. If you decide to make your own party mix, it’s perfectly okay to combine well-known artists with newer ones. Trust me, by doing so, you’ll spark conversation and ensure that your event remains alive and rockin’.

5. Have fun! After all, that’s what it’s all about, right?! You’ve put relentless effort in multiple research papers and spent countless hours in libraries all semester. Therefore, you deserve to enjoy your downtime with those who matter the most to you.

This article is a part of Brianna's weekly column on entertainment.

By: Brianna Arps | Image: Source

Nutella: Spread of the Gods



Image Source


First, I have to let you know that I’m listening to Florida Georgia Line while writing this column, and I can’t be held responsible for any random references to “Cruise” (the Nelly Remix).


GIRL YOU MAKE ME WANNA ROLL MY WINDOWS DOWN AND CRUISE.


Ahem. Anyway. Let’s talk about Nutella. The heavenly spread that could inspire thieves to steal more than 11,000 pounds of the stuff. World Nutella Day is February 5th, but I could celebrate this spread all day, everyday. I first found out about the gooey-cocoa-hazelnut goodness during French Club in high school. Our sad imitation of french cuisine was to slap some deli ham and cheese in between baguettes and spread some of this on this leftover bread for dessert.


I think my life changed (I’m not being melodramatic).

Image Source


Now my favorite hump-day snack is pretzels and Nutella. Salty, sweet; it’s the perfect combination to inspire any downtrodden college kid.


Here are a few beautiful faces of the world’s most versatile spread (I’m totally non-biased. Totally.):


1. Nutella as Dipping Sauce


Cookies. Crackers. Pretzels (personal fave). Carrots. Fruit (strawberries, apple slices work best). Candy. You name it, you can dip it. And that’s pretty genius.


2. Nutella as Peanut Butter


You put peanut butter on crackers and make cute cracker sandwiches? Done. You put peanut butter on toast? Check. Sure, it may not have all the health benefits of peanut butter, but all work and no fun makes Jack a dull boy...


3. Nutella as Popsicles

I was addicted to Fudgesicles as a kid (*cough* still am *cough*) and now should you be a lazy college student with easy access to a popsicle tray (hello Target) and a freezer (hello dorm room), YOU CAN MAKE YOUR OWN!


And finally:


4. Nutella as Nutella


Because sometimes all you need is a spoon.

This article is a part of Alise's weekly column focusing on fun food ideas.

By: Alise Murawski
+

Copyright 2014 On Campus

Designed by Template Trackers