Brad's Raw Leafy Kale

I love making my own kale chips (especially when the green markets are open!). A colleague sampled me her Brad's Raw Leafy Kale Chips the other day and I'm hooked! Jazzed up with vegan cheese and flavors like "Nasty Hot, "Nacho" and "Vampire Killer," these flavorful and healthy chips very satisfying.

Potato Chips

 I have a serious weakness for funky potato chip flavor varieties found across the globe. I know, I know, "gross." Lay's recently introduced three new flavors: Sriracha, Cheesy Garlic Bread and Chicken & Waffles. There are two outstanding curiosities on my mind: Where can I purchase these? What kind of wine does each bag pair with? More importantly, Lay's is considering each of these three for a permanent place in their line-up. Who will take the crown? Further details at the New York Post.

NatureBox

I'm big on keeping our pantry stocked with  nuts and other healthy snacks. NatureBox is a monthly subscription with the option to choose the products you'd like to receive ($19.95 for 5 bags, $29.95 for 10 bags) or to be surprised. We tend to go through our bulk bags of FreshDirect nuts every two months, so I think this frequency may be too much for two...but I did order their one-time delivery Superbowl box which contains eight bags of savory nuts and grains (think peppery pistachios, Lone Star trail mix!) and serves 20-25 guests.

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Yumnuts

I'm a big consumer of nuts. A colleague of mine suggested I try Yumnuts Toasted Coconut Cashews...they are delightful. You should try them too.

Mason Jar Goodies

I seem to pack food on-the-go often (work, picnic, dog park). These are a brilliant way to utilize the empty jam and pickle jars that my mother parcel posts to me throughout the year! I love added bonus of Sangria in the photograph above. (More ideas at The Decorated Cookie).

broiling shitake mushrooms into bacon

Vegan bacon! Health nuts must try! While looking for a video for the office, I came across a cooking show where a chef takes a few simple steps to make Shitake mushrooms take on the flavor and consistency of bacon. I gave it a go:



First: slice your Shitakes and toss with extra virgin olive oil, sea salt and fresh cracked pepper.



Second: Spread the mushroom mixture on to a baking sheet and place in a 350 degree oven. Stir every 10 minutes, for 30 minutes to an hour, until mushrooms are crispy.

Snack on them. Toss on salads, potatoes...delicious!

(It really does taste like bacon...mmm).