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How We Spent Our 35th Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

January 5, 2020 By Jessica Leave a Comment

This past October I traveled with a few of my oldest friends for a birthday trip to Las Vegas. Check out our itinerary for the ultimate visit to sin city!

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

My best friend, Joanna “Jobo” Linkemyer, and I are exactly two months apart.

My birthday is August 14th and hers is October 14th. We’ve been friends since we were 8 years old and lived next door to one another during our grade school and junior high years. We grew up in the small town of Lodi, California and did just about everything together. From taco night on Tuesdays around her mom’s kitchen table to summer vacations at Lake Berryessa… we became the sisters that each other had always wanted. So when our 35th birthday’s rolled around this past year, we decided to make the most of it by visiting the city that never sleeps.

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

Along for the ride was gal pals Valerie and Jessica. They both still live in Lodi and hang with Jobo daily. Valerie is in the wine biz and Jessica’s in healthcare. All three of these ladies are incredibly smart, beautiful and a complete blast to hang out with. Oh, and of course… Mama Sue came along with us too.

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas


WHERE WE STAYED: 


Our group opted for a two-room suite at Delano, Mandalay Bay’s newest all-suite hotel. Our accommodations were very spacious, clean and conveniently located to other attractions around the strip. Our main room had a wet bar, flat screen tv, working desk (which was a nice addition since I had to do some work in the AM hours), and a half bath. For seating, there was a large, comfortable couch and cozy arm chair in the center of the room. The bedroom had two queen-sized beds, plenty of hanging space and an insanely large bathroom. I’d highly recommend this hotel for groups of 3 or more.

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

Before staying in the suite with the girls, I actually stayed in a luxurious King room at Mandalay Bay for two days.

Similar to Delano’s suite, the space was immaculate. I’m talking about floor-to-ceiling windows, a gorgeous bathroom, and a bed so soft I felt right at home. I’ll definitely be staying here again when I return in 2020. Who knows, perhaps the girls and I will take an annual birthday trip to Las Vegas every year going forward! We had an amazing time.

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

A great perk of staying at Mandalay Bay is the access to their 11-acre pool paradise! On day #2, we nestled into a spot at their lazy river and soaked up the sun for the afternoon. This aquatic playground also has a large wave pool, spacious lagoons, a beach bar & grill, private cabanas and plenty of cocktail stations. Oh, and if you stay at the Delano there’s an additional pool area that’s open to their guests only!

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

Mandalay Bay also has a shark reef aquarium. I highly recommend it if you’re an animal lover or traveling with kids. It’s a pretty cool addition to the hotel. The main tank is 1,300,000 US gallons (which is one of the largest in North America) and they currently feature over 2,000 sea creatures!

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas


ATTRACTIONS WE SAW:


There’s no doubt that Las Vegas is the entertainment capital of the dessert. I personally love to gamble, but if that’s not your thing there’s plenty of options for entertainment. We didn’t schedule a visit to the Grand Canyon this time around, but that’s always a popular attraction (and on my bucket list for next time).

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil:

I’ve seen my fair share of Cirque du Soleil shows… but this is the only one that I found myself quietly singing along to every tune. Very entertaining and well put together. Added Bonus: This show is located inside Mandalay Bay!

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

The Mandalay Bay Tram:

This dual-track cable car is absolutely free to the public. It swiftly takes passengers from Mandalay Bay to the other side of the strip. There’s pit stops at the Luxor Hotel, Excalibur and then it ends at the Tropicana. Once you’ve reached the ending stop, feel free to walk around and explore New York New York, The Cosmopolitan, Planet Hollywood, Paris, The Bellagio, Cesar’s Palace and The Venetian!

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

Please Note: The Venetian is about 1.8 miles from the Tropicana. So make sure to carve out enough time to walk around and sightsee in-between destinations. This stroll definitely works up an appetite… but wait till you get to the indoor Venetian canals and marketplace before you make a dinner decision. Trust me, you’ll be thankful that you waited.

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

The Venetian:

All I have to say is this hotel is straight up magical. I’ve never had the pleasure of staying here, but walking around their indoor marketplace is definitely an experience every Las Vegas visitor should experience. It’s so unbelievably pretty… I just love soaking in the breathtaking views of the Grand Canal (and you can ride the gondolas, too!).

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

The Fountains at The Bellagio:

This water show runs every half hour from 3pm – 8pm and every 15 minutes from 8pm – midnight on weekdays. Weekends and holidays are a similar schedule, just make sure to check online before walking over to see them in action. Fun fact: The lake is 375,000 square feet… equivalent to three city blocks or eight football fields!

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

Downtown Las Vegas:

I’ve been to sin city many times, but this was my first time venturing over to the historic heart of Las Vegas. There’s a colorful LED canopy that blankets Fremont Street with vibrant light shows and music. If you dare, you can even zip-line across and to get a bird’s eye view. This place is bursting with live entertainment, dining options, and an array of cocktail bars.

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

We couldn’t squeeze in everything during our 4-day Birthday Trip To Las Vegas, but that leaves us plenty of things to look forward to! During our next adventure, I’d like to visit The Stratosphere Casino and Hotel, ride the roller-coaster at New York New York, visit Red Rock Canyon National Park, and tour Zak Bagan’s Haunted Museum.

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas


WHERE WE ATE & DRANK: 


The dining scene in Vegas has just about every genre of food you could ever crave and more. There’s coffee shops, buffets, ethic street food, culinary entertainment shows and celebrity chef experiences. Wether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or a fine dining option, Las Vegas offers something at every price point.

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

Jello Shots at The Excalibur:

If you plan to do our same route and walk to The Venetian, swing by here and slurp up a shot! I’m not sure I’ve had one of these since my early 20’s, but they are definitely something I’ll get again!

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

Mercato Della Pescheria: 

When you’re in the mood for pasta, this place is an absolute gem. Go for the Cacio e Pepe Alla Ruota, which they toss together tableside! Imported Bucatini, Pecorino Romano and Black Pepper… it’s the perfect, most comforting combo! This restaurant is located inside The Venetian at St. Mark’s Square. There’s live music and the ambiance can’t be beat.

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

Canaletto:

Located directly across from Mercato Della Pescheria is another Italian eatery that we enjoyed for appetizers and wine. While Mercato Della Pescheria focuses on seafood and pastas, Canaletto’s menu features regional recipes from Venice. They have an extensive list of distinctive wines and vintage bottles, definitely worth checking out. We ordered the Fried Risotto and Salumeria Assortita, which came with sliced cured meats, housemate breadsticks, sottoaceti and Grana Padano.

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

Border Grill: 

Such a spectacular spot, I actually ate here twice. Once before the girls arrived and then again after they joined me for our birthday trip to Las Vegas. Overlooking the Lazy River off Mandalay Beach, this eatery is perfect for sipping margaritas and noshing on exceptionally delicious Mexican fare. Known as “Two Hot Tamales” on the Food Network, the menu here was designed by celebrity chefs, Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger.

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

Top of Binion’s Steakhouse:

Located on the 24th floor is an old-school, mobster-vibe steakhouse that boasts some of the best views in Vegas. Their steaks are charbroiled over an open flame with your choice of temperature and seasonings. Entrées are served with your choice of veggies, baked potato or potato du jour and a freshly baked baguette. Come with an appetite, because the portions are HUUUUUGE (and delicious).


OTHER TRAVEL REVIEWS YOU MIGHT ENJOY:


NOM VOYAGE: TAKE A BITE OUT OF CHARLOTTE AT THE AIRPORT

EXPLORING WILMINGTON NC BEACHES WITH KIDS

SOUTH CAROLINA TRAVEL: OLDE ENGLISH DISTRICT

A FOODIE’S GUIDE TO DOLLYWOOD

Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

Where would you like our travels to take us next? I currently have five trips scheduled for 2020, but I’d love to hear your suggestions in the comments below! Make sure to follow me on Instagram, @sliceofjess, so you can watch our travel shenanigans on my stories!


PIN THIS FOR LATER: 


Birthday Trip To Las Vegas

 

 

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Whether it be snacks, lunch, or dinner… this Chi Whether it be snacks, lunch, or dinner… this Chicken Parmesan French Bread Pizza is where it’s at! Super crispy chunks from @smfchicken are cozied together in a blanket of three cheeses, herbs, and dunked in warm marinara (#ad). Simple ingredients, big on flavor!
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BLOG —> https://sliceofjess.com/chicken-parmesan-french-bread-pizzas/
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INGREDIENTS:
• 10 Springer Mountain Farms Chicken Breast Chunks
• ½ Loaf Ciabatta Bread
• 2 tbsp. Olive Oil
• 2 Garlic Cloves
• ½ cup Pizza Sauce
• 4 oz. Fresh Mozzarella, sliced
• 4 slices Provolone, sliced
• 2 tbsp. Grated Parmesan
• 6 Cherry Tomatoes, sliced
• 4 Basil Leaves, chopped
• Italian Parsley, chopped
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DIRECTIONS:
1. Cook the Chicken Chunks according to the packaged directions. You can cook them in the oven or air fryer. Once cooked, slice into smaller bite-sized pieces.
2. Cut the ciabatta in half, lengthwise, and brush the inner part with olive oil. Place on a baking sheet and toast in a 450F preheated oven for about 5 minutes (or until crusty on top). Once toasted, remove and rub the crusted bread with a garlic clove.
3. Turn the oven down to 425F. Top each ciabatta half with pizza sauce, cooked chicken chunks, fresh mozzarella, provolone, parmesan and tomatoes. Bake for 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
4. Serve with additional pizza sauce, if desired, and sprinkle with fresh herbs.
Totally smitten with my own take on Jollof Rice. W Totally smitten with my own take on Jollof Rice. We had it with Chicken Suya (recipe coming soon) and African Pepper Sauce. My-oh-my, I’ll be making this on repeat!
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BLOG —> https://sliceofjess.com/savory-and-spicy-nigerian-jollof-rice/
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INGREDIENTS:
• 3 tbsp. Vegetable Oil
• 1 Yellow Onion, thinly sliced
• 1 Habanero Pepper, minced
• 4 Garlic Cloves, minced
• 1 Red Bell Pepper, chopped
• 1 tbsp. Dried Thyme
• 1 tsp. Ground Ginger
• 1 tsp. Turmeric
• 1 tbsp. Paprika
• 2 tsp. Chicken Bouillon
• 15 oz. Tomato Sauce
• 4 cup Chicken Broth
• 2 Bay leaves
• 3 cups Long Grain Rice
• 1 cup Frozen Peas
• Italian Parsley, for garnish
• Salt + Pepper, to taste
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DIRECTIONS:
1. Sauté the onion, habanero, garlic, and red bell pepper in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. About 5 minutes.
2. Sprinkle in the thyme, ground ginger, turmeric, paprika and chicken bouillon. Mix together to combine and then add the tomato sauce, broth, bay leaves, and rice. Simmer, covered, for 20 - 30 minutes, or until water is absorbed and rice is tender.
3. Mix-in the peas and cover for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley, taste, and add salt / pepper if desired.
{AD} Make, bake, and decorate! This easy cheesecak {AD} Make, bake, and decorate! This easy cheesecake recipe is the perfect way to spend some time in the kitchen with your valentine. Today we’re celebrating with @mmschocolate + @dovechocolate to make a beautiful, and extremely delicious dessert at home.
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FOR THE GRAHAM CRACKER CRUST:
* 10 Graham Crackers, crushed
* 1/4 cup Confectioners Sugar
* 6 tbsp. Unsalted Butter, melted
* 1/8 tsp. Salt
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FOR THE CHEESECAKE:
* 16 oz. Cream Cheese, room temperature
* 2/3 cup Granulated Sugar
* 1/2 tsp. Vanilla
* 2 Eggs
* 14 - 16 DOVE® Hearts Valentine’s Day Dark Chocolate
* About 30 M&M’S® Strawberry Shake Valentine’s Day candies
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DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 350F.
2. Mix all ingredients together for the crust in a large bowl. Once combined, gently press into a springform pan.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and eggs. Once combined and smooth, pour on top of the graham cracker crust.
4. Set the pie pan on a baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, cover, and bake for an additional 15 minutes. The cheesecake will be done when the filling 1-inch from the edges is between 165F - 170F.
5. Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature and then place in the refrigerator to set.
6. Once you’re ready to consume, decorate with the DOVE® Hearts Valentine’s Day Dark Chocolate Candy around the exterior and M&M’S® Strawberry Shake Valentine’s Day candies in the interior. Slice and enjoy! #M&M’S #DOVECHOCOLATE
Spice up your Sunday with this Habanero-Garlic Afr Spice up your Sunday with this Habanero-Garlic African Pepper Sauce! Adds a tasty kick to chicken, steak, eggs, potatoes, tofu, veggies, and so much more.
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BLOG —> https://sliceofjess.com/habanero-garlic-african-pepper-sauce/
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INGREDIENTS:
• 10 Habanero Peppers, stems removed
• 1 medium Onion, thinly sliced
• 5 Garlic Cloves, chopped
• 3 Plum Tomatoes, diced
• 2 tbsp. Chicken Bouillon Powder
• ½ cup Vegetable Oil
• 6 small Basil Leaves
• 2 Sprigs Italian Parsley (about 3 tbsp.)
• Salt, to taste
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DIRECTIONS:
1. Place the habanero peppers, onion, garlic, tomatoes, chicken bouillon, and vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Simmer, stirring every few minutes, until starting to char. About 20 minutes.
2. Carefully pour all ingredients to a blender and allow to slightly cool. Right before blending, add the basil and parsley. Taste, and season with salt if desired.
Cooking day… catching up on client work after tr Cooking day… catching up on client work after traveling. What are some of your favorite go-to concoctions to reset and recharge? Here’s a fresh-ish recipe if you need to add some veggies to your plate (and it’s tasty, I promise).
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https://sliceofjess.com/cool-cucumber-salsa-recipe/
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INGREDIENTS:
• 1 English Cucumber, seeds removed and finely chopped
• 1 Medium-Size Tomato, seeds removed and finely chopped
• ¼ Red Onion, thinly sliced and chopped
• ¼ cup Minced Cilantro
• 1 Jalapeno Pepper, chopped
• 1 Garlic Clove, minced
• Juice of 1 Lime
• ¼ tsp. Kosher Salt, or more to taste
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DIRECTIONS:
1. Gently mix all ingredients together in a bowl and serve immediately.
Thank you @chefloosely for feeding me my very firs Thank you @chefloosely for feeding me my very first bite of caviar! In all seriousness my friends, if you haven’t checked out his concept @counterclt yet - I highly recommend making a reservation! His 10-course experience is a awe-inspiring mix of music history, art, and culture that’s showcased in plates made right before your eyes. It’s more than dining out at a restaurant, it’s a total experience. Bravo, chef! Such a fun night.
Prepping for dinner tonight totally slipped my min Prepping for dinner tonight totally slipped my mind… if you did too, these BBQ Hawaiian Meatballs come together in a flash! Serve over rice, inside sandwiches, sliders or over noodles. ☀️
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BLOG —> https://sliceofjess.com/bbq-hawaiian-slow-cooker-meatballs/
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INGREDIENTS:
• 1 bag @simeks Meatballs
• 1 can (8 ounces) Pineapple Chunks with juice
• 1 Bell Pepper, cut into small pieces
• 1 Jalapeño, cut into small pieces
• 1-1/4 cup BBQ Sauce
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DIRECTIONS:
1. Pour all ingredients into the slow cooker.
2. Cover and cook on high for 3 hours.
3. Enjoy on their own as an appetizer, serve over rice or inside sliders for an easy dinner.
Craving a warm and comforting pasta for dinner? Go Craving a warm and comforting pasta for dinner? Go ahead and give this stuffed shells recipe a try! Jam packed with ground beef, jalapeño peppers, caramelized onions, horseradish and topped with lemon gremolata. Mmmmm.
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BLOG —> https://sliceofjess.com/spicy-beef-stuffed-shells-with-horseradish-tomato-sauce/
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LEMON GREMOLATA:
•Zest of 1 Lemon
• 2 Garlic Cloves, minced
• 1 cup Parsley Leaves, minced (about 1 bunch)
• Juice of ½ Lemon
• Salt + Pepper, to taste
• Red Pepper Flakes, optional
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HORSERADISH TOMATO CREAM SAUCE:
• 2 Garlic Cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp. Olive Oil
• 28 oz. San Marzano Whole Peeled Tomatoes
• 1 tbsp. Prepared Horseradish
• 1 tsp. Italian Seasoning
• ¼ cup Reserved Pasta Water
• ¼ cup Half and Half
• Salt + Pepper, as desired
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SPICY GROUND BEEF:
• ½ Large White Onion, chopped
• 2 Jalapeños, seeded and chopped
• 1 tbsp. Olive Oil
• ¼ cup White Wine, to deglaze
• 1 lb. Ground Beef
• Salt + Pepper, as desired
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ASSEMBLE THE PASTA:
• 24 Jumbo Pasta Shells
• 8 oz. Fresh Mozzarella, cut into 24 pieces
• 4 oz. Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
• Freshly Grated Parmesan, for serving
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Directions on my blog 🍝
My grandma’s Bierocks are the #1 visited recipe My grandma’s Bierocks are the #1 visited recipe on my blog… and for good reason.  Refrigerated biscuit dough is stuffed with spiced ground beef, sauerkraut, onions, and gruyère. Dip in mustard or horseradish. Oh my!
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BLOG —> https://sliceofjess.com/my-grandmas-super-easy-recipe-for-bierocks/
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INGREDIENTS:
• 1 lb. Ground Beef
• 1 Yellow Onion, thinly sliced
• 2 Garlic Cloves, minced
• 1 tsp. Smoked Paprika
• ½ tsp. Cayenne Pepper
• 1 tsp. Cumin
• 6 oz. Gruyère, shredded
• 16 oz. Bavarian Sauerkraut
• 2 cans Grands Southern Homestyle Buttermilk Biscuits
• All Purpose Flour, as needed
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DIRECTIONS:
1. Sauté ground beef with sliced onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne and cumin until browned and crumbly. About 10 minutes. Drain the excess fat and allow the meat to cool in the strainer for a few minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350F, shred the Gruyère and drain the sauerkraut.
2. Gently mix together the ground beef mixture, shredded cheese and sauerkraut in a large bowl.
3. Roll out each biscuit flat on a floured surface. Place 3 - 4 tablespoons of the filling in the center of each biscuit and fold up the sides like a steam bun to seal.
4. Place uncooked bierocks, seam side down, split among two parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake for 17 - 19 minutes, or until golden. Allow the bierocks to cool on a wired baking rack for 2 - 3 minutes before consuming. Enjoy!
Have you ever marinated your chicken in yogurt + s Have you ever marinated your chicken in yogurt + spices? The end result is juicy, succulent, crispy-on-the-outside, tender-in-the-middle fabulous. Head on over to your local grocer to pick up a pack of @smfchicken and give this recipe a try (#sponsored). Trust me, you’ll swoon at first bite!
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BLOG —> https://sliceofjess.com/golden-yogurt-marinated-chicken/
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• 1.5 lbs. Springer Mountain Farms Chicken Breasts
• ⅓ cup 2% Greek Yogurt
• 1 tbsp. Smoked Paprika
• 1 tbsp. Turmeric
• 1 tbsp. Ground Coriander
• 5 Garlic Cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp. Chopped Chives
• 2 tbsp. Chopped Fresh Cilantro
• ¼ cup Olive Oil
• 1 tsp. Salt + 1 tsp. Pepper
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DIRECTIONS:
1. Mix all Ingredients together in a large bowl. Allow to marinate in the refrigerator, covered, for at least 45 minutes.
2. Preheat the oven to 425F. Arrange the marinated chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes, making sure to flip halfway through.
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Serve this on grain bowls, sandwiches, salads… anything your heart desires!
Totally smitten with this salad dressing because i Totally smitten with this salad dressing because it uses so many herbs!! (Thanks @soliorganic for always being at my fingertips!) This homemade condiment is so versatile, I can’t wait for you to try it!
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BLOG —> https://sliceofjess.com/healthier-green-goddess-salad-dressing/
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INGREDIENTS:
• 1 cup whole Milk or 2% Greek Yogurt
• Juice of ½ Lemon
• ¼ cup Fresh Dill
• 1 cup Freshly Chopped Parsley
• ½ cup Fresh Cilantro
• 1 Large Garlic Clove
• 2 tbsp. Dehydrated Onion Flakes
• 2 tbsp. Capers
• 2 tbsp. Chopped Chives
• ¼ tsp. Salt + ¼ tsp. Black Pepper
• 1 - 2 tbsp. Olive Oil
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DIRECTIONS:
1. Place all ingredients in a food processor and pulse until smooth. Enjoy immediately.
It’s that weird week between holidays… so migh It’s that weird week between holidays… so might as well make the most of it and warm up your house with the oven! If you love a meat stuffed pie in all its cheesy, carby glory… then you’re going to be obsessed with this Italian Stromboli!
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BLOG —> https://sliceofjess.com/gimme-the-meats-italian-stuffed-stromboli-pizza/
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WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
• 14 oz. Raw Pizza Dough
• 3 tbsp. Butter
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 15 slices Salami
• 24 slices Pepperoni
• 9 Cuts Thinly Sliced Ham
• 8 oz. Mozzarella Cheese, shredded
• 1 Egg, beaten
• ½ tsp. Garlic Powder
• 2 tbsp. Parmesan Cheese
• 2 tbsp. Fresh Parsley
• ½ cup Marinara, warmed
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DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 375F.
2. Shred cheese and separate into three equal-sized portions.
3. Roll pizza dough out into a rectangle onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. In a small bowl combine 1 tablespoon melted butter and two cloves of minced garlic. Brush over the top of dough.
5. Sprinkle ⅓ cheese onto the dough, leaving a ½ inch ledge around the top and two sides. Layer with ham, ⅓ cheese, pepperoni, salami and remaining ⅓ cheese.
Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush the three exposed edges of the dough.
Starting with the long edge that does not have the egg wash, gently roll up the dough into the shape of a log. Make sure the Stromboli has the seam-side facing down and tuck the edges under to seal.
6. Combine 2 tablespoons of melted butter along with the garlic powder and parmesan cheese in a small bowl. Brush the exterior of the Stromboli, covering all three exposed sides.
7. Using a serrated knife, make shallow diagonal cuts along the top of the Stromboli, about every 2 inches.
8. Bake for 30 minutes and allow the Stromboli to cool for at least 5 minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with warm marinara.
When it comes to lettuce wraps, you can make a hea When it comes to lettuce wraps, you can make a hearty, yet healthier meal. @soliorganic provides the BEST organic romaine to fill! #SoliOrganicPartner Today’s dinner includes their bite-sized Crisp Romaine stuffed with fajita steak, avocado crema, and cucumber salsa. The flavor combo is absolutely delicious… savory, a hint of heat, herby, and cool. Oh, did I mention how crisp the romaine is? I found their leafy greens at @lowesfoods and I highly recommend them. Do yourself a favor and give this recipe a try. Enjoy! #sponsored
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FULL RECIPE —> https://sliceofjess.com/sirloin-fajita-steak-lettuce-wraps/
When it comes Christmas Eve dinner that will feed When it comes Christmas Eve dinner that will feed your out of town guests, there’s nothing tastier than Italian Sausage Pasta made from scratch with brown butter, garlic, freshly grated parmesan and herbs.
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BLOG —> https://sliceofjess.com/italian-sausage-pasta-with-brown-butter-and-herbs/
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INGREDIENTS:
• 1 lb. Boxed Pasta Noodles
• 2 tbsp. Kosher Salt
• 16 oz. Mild Italian Ground Sausage (1 lb.)
• 8 tbsp. Unsalted Butter (1 stick)
• 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan
• 1 tbsp. Garlic Purée
• ½ cup reserved Pasta Water
• 3 Tbsp. chopped Italian Parsley Leaves
• 1 Tbsp. Fresh Thyme Leaves
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to taste
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DIRECTIONS:
1. Bring a large pot water to a rolling boil and sprinkle-in the salt. Add pasta noodles and cook according to the package directions for al dente.
2. While the noodles are cooking, brown the sausage and drain any access oil. Set aside until you’re ready for assembly.
3. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue to scrape the bottom with a wooden spoon until golden brown bits form and you smell a nutty aroma. This usually takes about 3 minutes. Be very careful not to burn the butter, otherwise you’ll need to start over. Once browned, remove from heat immediately.
4. Once cooked, reserve about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. Add noodles to the brown butter and toss to combine. Sprinkle in about ¾ cup of cheese and a big squeeze of Garlic Purée. Using tongs, stir the noodles with 2 – 3 tablespoons of starchy pasta water. Continue to stir, until a glossy sauce has formed. Feel free to add more or less pasta water to reach your desired sauce consistency. Typically, you will not use the entire ½ cup.
5. When sauce has formed, go ahead and mix-in the cooked sausage. Serve with remaining cheese, fresh herbs, and freshly cracked black pepper.
Have you ever considered making your Christmas cha Have you ever considered making your Christmas charcuterie into individual portions? Look how cute this mason jar version is! Perfect for the upcoming holiday.
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TOOLS NEEDED:
• 8 small Mason Jars
• 8 Bamboo Skewers, or as needed
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INGREDIENTS:
• 4 oz. Colby Jack, cut into cubes
• 3 oz. Mozzarella, cut into cubes
• 2 cups Pub Mix
• 1 cup Green Grapes
• 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes
• 3 oz. Sliced Genoa Salami
• 3 oz. Sliced Pepperoni
• @mtolivepickles Baby Dills, as needed
• @mtolivepickles Dill Chips, as needed
• @mtolivepickles Sliced Pepperoncini’s, as needed
• @mtolivepickles Bread and Butter Munchies, as needed
• ½ cup Blackberries
• Fresh Rosemary Sprigs, optional for garnish
• Fresh Basil, optional for garnish
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OTHER INGREDIENT IDEAS:
• Mixed Nuts
• Various Crackers
• Cold Cuts (ham, turkey, prosciutto, etc)
• Cheese Straws
• Goat Cheese Balls
• Dried Fruit (Apricots, Banana Chips, Cherries)
• Strawberries
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DIRECTIONS:
1. Cut the cheese into cubes and set aside.
Fill four mason jars with desired amount of Pub Mix as a base. Add desired number of green grapes and cherry tomatoes among the other four mason jars as a base. Keep some set aside for garnishments.
2. Layer bamboo skewers with cheese squares, salami, pepperoni, and Mt Olive pickles, on bamboo skewers. Set the skewers inside the mason jars to add dimension.
3. Finish by garnishing the mason jars with additional Pub Mix, grapes, tomatoes, blackberries, Mt. Olive Sliced Pepperoncini’s, Mt. Olive Bread and Butter Munchies, Fresh Rosemary Sprigs and Basil leaves.
Here’s a delicious dinner idea for friends and f Here’s a delicious dinner idea for friends and family visiting this week! This Lemon Pepper Chicken is exactly what you need on your table. Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, over greens, or in a sandwich! 
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BLOG —> https://sliceofjess.com/extra-crispy-lemon-pepper-chicken-cutlets/
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Personal Note: Thank you @smfchicken for being such a wonderful business partner! I’m so excited that we’ve signed on to continue working together in all of 2023! ☺️ Hooray for more chicken recipes!
Brussels Sprouts are my favorite this time of year Brussels Sprouts are my favorite this time of year! Dressing them with Parmesan, @soliorganic’s Fresh Dill, and Panko breadcrumbs makes for a spectacular, crispy side dish. Trust me on this one, you’re going to want to roast a batch ASAP.
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BLOG —> https://sliceofjess.com/crispy-parmesan-roasted-brussels-sprouts-recipe/
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INGREDIENTS:
• 1 lb. Brussels Sprouts, cut in half
• 2 tbsp. Olive Oil
• ½ cup Grated Parmesan
• ⅓ cup Panko Bread Crumbs
• 2 tbsp. Chopped Soli Organic Fresh Dill
• ½ tsp. Black Pepper
• ½ tsp. Salt
• 1 Lemon, cut into wedges for serving
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DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat the oven to 400F.
2. Wash and trim the Brussels sprouts, then cut them in half. Place the halves in a large bowl.
3. Pour over the olive oil, grated parmesan, Panko bread crumbs, fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
4. Transfer to a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for an optional garnish.
What’s your favorite thing to make with fresh sp What’s your favorite thing to make with fresh spinach? These phyllo mini pies are mine 🤪 Full recipe on my blog!
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RECIPE CARD —> https://sliceofjess.com/mini-spinach-pie-with-whipped-ricotta/
I’ve been cooking up all the culinary creations I’ve been cooking up all the culinary creations @rachaelray has put together for @realhomechef. Her Smokey Shrimp Fra Diavolo Linguine was fantastic! A fabulous addition to our weekday cooking schedules.
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RECIPE + BLOG —> https://sliceofjess.com/smoky-shrimp-fra-diavolo-linguine-by-rachael-ray/
What’s your favorite go-to soup? Mine is defiant What’s your favorite go-to soup? Mine is defiantly ground beef + grain + veggies (even though quinoa is technically a seed🤪)
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FULL RECIPE —> https://sliceofjess.com/ground-beef-soup-with-veggies/
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YOU’LL NEED:
• Lean Ground Beef
• Carrots
• Yellow Onion
• Celery
• Garlic Cloves
• Parsnips
• Canned Tomatoes
• Quinoa 
• Beef Bone Broth
• Lemon
• Italian Parsley
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Enjoy!
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