Friday, March 31, 2017

Learn How to Pack like a Pro so You can Focus on the Fun Side of Traveling

Tortilla Chips

Tortilla Chips
You're in luck with this one, because it's actually a three-in-one recipe for tortillas, tacos and tortilla chips (aka nachos). This version is a lot healthier than what you'd buy in store (mostly because of the baking in lieu of frying), and it really is so easy to make.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – EdiblePerspective

Tomato Salsa

Tomato Salsa
There's no way that I would give you a nacho recipe without the perfect tomato salsa to accompany your chips. This is one of the simplest and most delicious salsa recipes since it uses canned tomatoes, so you won't be spending too much time chopping.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – ThePioneerWoman

Guacamole

Guacamole
Now to top off your Mexican feast, I give you the most luxurious guac recipe; I consider buying the premade stuff to be a serious food sin. The secret ingredient here is Greek yogurt – not only is it healthy and packed full of protein, but it's just what you need in order to achieve that deliciously creamy texture.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – JustATaste

Refried Beans

Refried Beans
I absolutely love refried beans, and the difference between the canned stuff and a homemade version really is like night and day. This is the very best recipe that I could find – it does take eight hours in the crock pot, though, so you need to plan ahead.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – SimplyScratch

Granola

Granola
I've always loved granola, but I haven't really ever been able to settle on one favorite brand or type. So rather than complain about what I don't like, I'd rather just make my own so that it's exactly what I want. This tutorial really breaks down the simple process for you, and shows you how easy it is to customize to your liking.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – BuzzFeed

Peanut Butter Oat Bars

Peanut Butter Oat Bars
I promise you, after you taste this crunchy oatmeal peanut buttery goodness, you'll never spend your money on Nature Valley bars again! And keep in mind, that if you have a peanut allergy, you can substitute any other type of nut butter.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – HalfBakedHarvest

Yogurt

Yogurt
People are often quite apprehensive about making their own yogurt, but I think it's such a cool thing to do! To be honest, though, my favorite part is getting my toppings ready – some fresh fruit, honey and granola make an excellent combo.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – Greatist

Peanut Butter

Peanut Butter
Making your own peanut butter is as easy as blending peanuts in a food processor. That's it. Using roasted nuts means that you don't have to add any extra oil, and of course, this is so much healthier than the stuff you buy in stores because it isn't full of sugar and all the other bad stuff.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – AverieCooks

Nutella

Nutella
Sure, we all love eating spoonfuls of the ever-popular chocolatey hazelnut spread, but this guilty pleasure doesn't actually have to be quite so guilty. Here are two wonderful recipes – one is a very simple recipe, while the other is a much healthier version.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – DIYnCrafts and Detoxinista

Jam

Jam
The process of making jam is no longer a laborious one – if you have berries (or other fruit of your choosing), sugar, and few minutes to spare, then you are more than capable of whipping up some delicious homemade jam.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – DIYnCrafts

Butter

Butter
Butter is actually quite a simple thing to make, and the good news is that you don't need your own cows, nor do you need to churn it by hand for hours. This process is relatively quick and it's just so much better than what you would otherwise buy in the store.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – ThePrairieHomestead

Bread

Bread
If you're making your own butter, then smearing it on a slice of freshly-baked, homemade bread will be so much more satisfying, trust me! This recipe is one of the easiest out there – you don't need a machine, and it doesn't even require any kneading!

Recipe Instructions and Credit – Sandra'sEasyCooking

Vanilla Extract

Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract—not to be confused with vanilla essence that's chemically produced and doesn't actually contain any vanilla—is the real deal. The process of making it is so very simple, but you will need patience since the extraction part takes about six to eight weeks.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – AverieCooks

Croutons

Croutons
My problem with store-bought croutons is that they're usually too oily for my liking or just way too hard on my poor teeth, so for me, it's homemade all the way! I don't really eat croutons often, so this allows me to make the exact amount that I need without letting any go stale.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – SavorySweetLife

Bread Crumbs

Bread Crumbs
I was quite shocked the other day when I looked at the ingredients of the bread crumbs in the grocery store; apart from the high fructose corn syrup, I also found a bunch of other things that I've never heard of before. I much prefer making my own that I can add my own seasoning to and freeze for future use. Plus, it's a great way to make use of stale bread.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – Weed'Em&Reap

Lemonade

Lemonade
I love the refreshing tang of lemonade, but I really don't love all the sugar that's added to it, so I prefer to make my own. You can use either still or sparkling water, depending on your preference, and the addition of a bit of ginger really takes it up a notch.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – TheTastyBite

Potato Chips

Potato Chips
Potato chips are like my kryptonite; once a bag is opened, I can guarantee you that I won't stop munching until it's empty. But as we all know, fried is bad, and baked is good. The process for regular potato or root vegetable chips is very simple, and the fun part is that you can add whatever seasoning you like – paprika, parmesan, salt and vinegar, garlic… the possibilities are endless.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – Tracey'sCulinaryAdventures and HappyHealthyMama

Salad Dressing

Salad Dressing
If I had to choose only one product that I want the world to stop buying and start making, I'd have to go with salad dressing. Why? Because it's so darn easy to make! I almost feel embarrassed for people when I see them spending money in the store. This guide shows you just how easy it really is to make 10 of the most popular dressings.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – Shape

Whipped Cream

Whipped Cream
Ok, so if salad dressing is my number one choice then whipped cream is definitely my second; I've never liked that weird gummy consistency of the canned stuff. As the name suggests, all you really have to do is whip up some heavy cream, and just toss in some vanilla and sugar. Voilà!

Recipe Instructions and Credit – TheGirlWhoAteEverything

Pancake Mix

Pancake Mix
When that pancake craving hits, I know it's hard to resist reaching for the premade mix, so why not just make your own mix that you can store for the next craving? Simply toss the dry ingredients in a Ziploc bag or airtight container and then just make a label to indicate which wet ingredients you need to add when the time comes.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – SpendWithPennies

40 Foods You Need to Stop Buying and Start Making Right Now!

Tortilla Chips

Tortilla Chips
You're in luck with this one, because it's actually a three-in-one recipe for tortillas, tacos and tortilla chips (aka nachos). This version is a lot healthier than what you'd buy in store (mostly because of the baking in lieu of frying), and it really is so easy to make.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – EdiblePerspective

Tomato Salsa

Tomato Salsa
There's no way that I would give you a nacho recipe without the perfect tomato salsa to accompany your chips. This is one of the simplest and most delicious salsa recipes since it uses canned tomatoes, so you won't be spending too much time chopping.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – ThePioneerWoman

Guacamole

Guacamole
Now to top off your Mexican feast, I give you the most luxurious guac recipe; I consider buying the premade stuff to be a serious food sin. The secret ingredient here is Greek yogurt – not only is it healthy and packed full of protein, but it's just what you need in order to achieve that deliciously creamy texture.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – JustATaste

Refried Beans

Refried Beans
I absolutely love refried beans, and the difference between the canned stuff and a homemade version really is like night and day. This is the very best recipe that I could find – it does take eight hours in the crock pot, though, so you need to plan ahead.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – SimplyScratch

Granola

Granola
I've always loved granola, but I haven't really ever been able to settle on one favorite brand or type. So rather than complain about what I don't like, I'd rather just make my own so that it's exactly what I want. This tutorial really breaks down the simple process for you, and shows you how easy it is to customize to your liking.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – BuzzFeed

Peanut Butter Oat Bars

Peanut Butter Oat Bars
I promise you, after you taste this crunchy oatmeal peanut buttery goodness, you'll never spend your money on Nature Valley bars again! And keep in mind, that if you have a peanut allergy, you can substitute any other type of nut butter.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – HalfBakedHarvest

Yogurt

Yogurt
People are often quite apprehensive about making their own yogurt, but I think it's such a cool thing to do! To be honest, though, my favorite part is getting my toppings ready – some fresh fruit, honey and granola make an excellent combo.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – Greatist

Peanut Butter

Peanut Butter
Making your own peanut butter is as easy as blending peanuts in a food processor. That's it. Using roasted nuts means that you don't have to add any extra oil, and of course, this is so much healthier than the stuff you buy in stores because it isn't full of sugar and all the other bad stuff.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – AverieCooks

Nutella

Nutella
Sure, we all love eating spoonfuls of the ever-popular chocolatey hazelnut spread, but this guilty pleasure doesn't actually have to be quite so guilty. Here are two wonderful recipes – one is a very simple recipe, while the other is a much healthier version.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – DIYnCrafts and Detoxinista

Jam

Jam
The process of making jam is no longer a laborious one – if you have berries (or other fruit of your choosing), sugar, and few minutes to spare, then you are more than capable of whipping up some delicious homemade jam.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – DIYnCrafts

Butter

Butter
Butter is actually quite a simple thing to make, and the good news is that you don't need your own cows, nor do you need to churn it by hand for hours. This process is relatively quick and it's just so much better than what you would otherwise buy in the store.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – ThePrairieHomestead

Bread

Bread
If you're making your own butter, then smearing it on a slice of freshly-baked, homemade bread will be so much more satisfying, trust me! This recipe is one of the easiest out there – you don't need a machine, and it doesn't even require any kneading!

Recipe Instructions and Credit – Sandra'sEasyCooking

Vanilla Extract

Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract—not to be confused with vanilla essence that's chemically produced and doesn't actually contain any vanilla—is the real deal. The process of making it is so very simple, but you will need patience since the extraction part takes about six to eight weeks.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – AverieCooks

Croutons

Croutons
My problem with store-bought croutons is that they're usually too oily for my liking or just way too hard on my poor teeth, so for me, it's homemade all the way! I don't really eat croutons often, so this allows me to make the exact amount that I need without letting any go stale.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – SavorySweetLife

Bread Crumbs

Bread Crumbs
I was quite shocked the other day when I looked at the ingredients of the bread crumbs in the grocery store; apart from the high fructose corn syrup, I also found a bunch of other things that I've never heard of before. I much prefer making my own that I can add my own seasoning to and freeze for future use. Plus, it's a great way to make use of stale bread.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – Weed'Em&Reap

Lemonade

Lemonade
I love the refreshing tang of lemonade, but I really don't love all the sugar that's added to it, so I prefer to make my own. You can use either still or sparkling water, depending on your preference, and the addition of a bit of ginger really takes it up a notch.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – TheTastyBite

Potato Chips

Potato Chips
Potato chips are like my kryptonite; once a bag is opened, I can guarantee you that I won't stop munching until it's empty. But as we all know, fried is bad, and baked is good. The process for regular potato or root vegetable chips is very simple, and the fun part is that you can add whatever seasoning you like – paprika, parmesan, salt and vinegar, garlic… the possibilities are endless.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – Tracey'sCulinaryAdventures and HappyHealthyMama

Salad Dressing

Salad Dressing
If I had to choose only one product that I want the world to stop buying and start making, I'd have to go with salad dressing. Why? Because it's so darn easy to make! I almost feel embarrassed for people when I see them spending money in the store. This guide shows you just how easy it really is to make 10 of the most popular dressings.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – Shape

Whipped Cream

Whipped Cream
Ok, so if salad dressing is my number one choice then whipped cream is definitely my second; I've never liked that weird gummy consistency of the canned stuff. As the name suggests, all you really have to do is whip up some heavy cream, and just toss in some vanilla and sugar. Voilà!

Recipe Instructions and Credit – TheGirlWhoAteEverything

Pancake Mix

Pancake Mix
When that pancake craving hits, I know it's hard to resist reaching for the premade mix, so why not just make your own mix that you can store for the next craving? Simply toss the dry ingredients in a Ziploc bag or airtight container and then just make a label to indicate which wet ingredients you need to add when the time comes.

Recipe Instructions and Credit – SpendWithPennies

31 Fun and Easy Halloween Crafts for Kids

Coffee Filter Spiderwebs

Coffee Filter Spiderwebs
A coffee filter is actually a fantastic craft medium because it's nice and thin, yet it isn't too fragile. You may have made some coffee filter snowflakes before, but now it's time for the kids to make coffee filter spiderwebs to hang on your windows!

DIY Instructions and Project Credit – TheArtfulParent

Toilet Paper Mummies

Toilet Paper Mummies
I used to wrap myself in toilet paper and pretend to be a mummy, but in this case, you can get the kids to wrap the cardboard rolls themselves. It's a lot less messy than a whole wrapped person, and it's simply adorable!

DIY Instructions and Project Credit – Papelisimo

Toilet Roll Bats and Cats

Toilet Roll Bats and Cats
It seems toilet rolls aren't just for mummies, your kids can make some quick and easy bats and black cats from them, too. You could even string them all together to make a spooky garland!

DIY Instructions and Project Credit – CraftyMorning1 and CraftyMorning2

Halloween Countdown

1-happy-halloween-countdown
The anticipation of something fun to come can be a really exciting time for a child – just think of those Christmas advent calendars. So to really get their enthusiasm up, you can help your little ones make this bewitching Halloween countdown where they remove a link every day.

DIY Instructions and Project Credit – BabyCenter

Ping Pong Ghost Lights

Ping Pong Ghost Lights
These little ghost lights are just too cute, and there's no doubt that the kids will love drawing all the spooky faces. You'll probably have to help out with the lighting part and setting it up so that the little ones can proudly stand by their illuminated spooks.

DIY Instructions and Project Credit – UnoriginalMom

Party Piñatas

Party Piñatas
I don't care how old you are, a piñata will always be fun to smash, regardless of whether you're a kid trying to get to the candy, or an adult releasing some stress. These two tutorials show you how to get the kids involved in making a family of ghosts, and a pumpkin. The pumpkin one can actually even be used as a trick-or-treat bag when the time comes.

DIY Instructions and Project Credit – ABeautifulMess and Tuts+

Egg Carton Monsters

Egg Carton Monsters
If you're lucky enough to land the job of hosting a Halloween party, then you may want to consider these monster candy holders as party favors. If you don't want to slave away all day with your little one, you could get all the kids to make their own as a fun activity.

DIY Instructions and Project Credit – TheCraftTrain

Marshmallow Monsters

Marshmallow Monsters
When I was younger, there was nothing that I loved more than making treats with faces on them; there's something so darn satisfying about playing with your food as a kid. Give your little ones the opportunity with these marshmallow monsters.

DIY Instructions and Project Credit – Spark&Chemistry

Spooky Luminaires

Spooky Luminaires
A great way to light up your home in true Halloween style is with some colorful themed luminaries. Your kids can paint anything they want on there from skulls to pumpkins to bats! And they look great regardless of whether they're lit up or not.

DIY Instructions and Project Credit – CraftsByAmanda

Glow Stick Jars

Glow Stick Jars
Another fun way to bring some Halloween light is with these clever glow-in-the-dark jars. You'll definitely need to supervise since you don't want any accidental ingesting of the glow stick liquid, but the decorating can be all up to the little ones.

DIY Instructions and Project Credit – CreateCraftLove

Q-Tip Skeletons

Q-Tip Skeletons
Who knew that Q-tips made such excellent skeletal bones? Your kids can have all sorts of fun making a collection of skeletons in funny and interesting positions.

DIY Instructions and Project Credit – SheKnows

Tape Resist Skeleton

Tape Resist Skeleton
If your rug rat likes things on a much bigger scale, then this life-size tape resist skeleton may be just be the way to go. It's a really fun activity because they get to trace bodies, stick the tape, paint, and reveal! Plus, they learn a bit about the human body throughout the process, too.

DIY Instructions and Project Credit – ArtfulParent

Ghost Garland

Ghost Garland
I used to love making paper chains as a kid – I'd toss them all over the house! If your little ones feels the same, then get them involved in this ghostly garland. They can even add a whole bunch of other characters too, like bats and monsters.

DIY Instructions and Project Credit – AuntAnnie'sCrafts

Spider Hat

Spider Hat
Halloween is the only time of year that I'll allow anything spider-related in my home, so I might as well make the most of it. Your little tots are sure to enjoy making these fun spider hats to wear out trick-or-treating or even just to show off at school.

DIY Instructions and Project Credit – LittleBuggieTutu

Witch Hat

Witch Hat
Since I'm on the topic of hats, if you have a little witch in the house then she'll definitely need a signature hat! Get your kids to decorate the hats in their own style so that they can either wear them around, or simply decorate your home.

DIY Instructions and Project Credit – 4CrazyKings and TheDollarDiva