THE FIVE MINUTE BRUSHETTA

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: LESS THAN OY!

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Times are tough. We have to work harder than ever  and be as frugal as possible when it comes to our daily spending habits. 

This means having friends over for wine and an affordable homemade appetizer.

The below recipe is simple, affordable, and most importantly: Fabulous and Easy. 

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• Jar of Sun dried tomatoes (packed in oil)
• French bread
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Parmesan cheese, grated

Preheat the oven to 500. 

Slice your French bread on a diagonal.  Drizzle olive oil on a plate, and coat each slice with some oil and sprinkle with garlic powder.

Toast the bread in the oven for 2 minutes on each side. 

Remove from the oven and top each toasted slice with sun dried tomatoes. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve!

Enjoy!

DAILY HEEL WATCH

Christian Louboutin really knows how to mix sweet and sexy withthese Lavendar stunners!

http://www.barneys.com/Fetilo/500514440,default,pd.html

DAILY HEEL WATCH

Michael Kors is really getting chic!

Step it up a notch in these sleek sexy-ass synthetic heels.

http://couture.zappos.com/n/p/dp/68132316/c/233505.html

A QUICKIE: CHICKEN PAELLA

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY!

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Blame it on a long day. Blame it on a headache.

Sometimes, you're just NOT in the mood...

...To cook.

(What did you think I was talking about?!)

Well, fear not, my fellow fabulous foodies! 

This chicken dish is all done on the stove top, is super-duper easy, and seems like you have been stewing this paella all day.

All you need is a pot, and a pan, and the ingredients below!

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• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound of chicken (I prefer tenders)
• Chorizo... or 2 chicken sausages -- I used pre-cooked smoked andouille chicken, which made this dish gumbo-ish
• 10 oz packet of frozen, cooked brown rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1/2 cup of white wine
• salt, pepper, and paprika

 Rub salt, pepper, and paprika on the chicken tenders. 

On medium high, saute the chorizo/ chicken sausage until golden brown. Remove to a plate and add olive oil to the pan. Add the chicken and cook 4 minutes per side. Remove and add to plate. 

In the pan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until soft. Add the rice and coat. 

Move this mixture to a pot sprayed with olive oil. 

In the pan, add the 1/2 cup of white wine and boil, picking up all the juicy bits -- then add to pot. 

In the pot, add the can of tomato chopped with juice, and the 2 cups of chicken broth. 

Bring up to a simmer, and add the cooked meat. 

Let it simmer for 15 minutes. Or all day. 

Serve and enjoy!

DAILY HEEL WATCH

Marc Jacob's Technicolored Dream Heel

Marc steps it up with these sure-to-be summer staples!

http://couture.zappos.com/n/p/dp/68136298/c/4188.html

KOGI CHIC -- THE ULTIMATE BRISKET TACO

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY VEY! 

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The gourmet foods truck craze is alive and kicking in the city of Los Angeles.

You've got Umami burgers, Philly Cheese Steaks, too many to list, and of course, the mother of them all-- the Kogi truck.

Well, forget having to wait in line in your fabulous heels on Abbott Kinney next to the Brig.

You can make a  delicious Kogi-style inspired beef brisket tacos (Kosher too!) with this recipe!

(After the Jump)

TREND WATCH - SPRING NUDES

We are going nude this season!

Wait-- don't strip. I mean nude HEELS. 

Bring on the Beige with some Spring sandals!

Michael Kors ($645) LAMB ($399) DONNA KARAN ($744)  

Find out which is which after the JUMP!

CONCEPT LA - Skin Graft

Skingraft's collection was my knock-out favorite. 

I mean, look at the leather work! I need one of their jackets STAT. 

Check out my interview with the designer, Jonny Cota:

CONCEPT LA - Jen Awad

Jen Awad's Fall Winter 2011 collection was futuristic Hollywood glam -- a mix of pearl and leather. 

The show featured some booties and caged heels, and many looks were shown with a version of Dolce Vita's Mule (get them HERE at Bloomies)

HIP TIP : DON'T CRY OVER SPILT MILK

Milk ain't just for cookies. 

Companies from Kiehl's to Chanel all make milk-based facial cleansers. 


Even Cleopatra used milk to keep her skin fresh as she ruled Egypt.


The lactic acid in milk de-puffs and lighten dark circles, and acts as a light exfoliant.

Why not use some right from your fridge?

**

• Milk 
• Cotton balls

Dip your cotton ball in cold milk and apply to face. How simple!

CONCEPT LA - Valerj Pobega

Valerj, an Italian transplant, has some fantastic clothes. Just look how gorgeous!

Every piece is designed, cut, sewn, and hand dyed by Valerj.

Here is our interview:

CIH: What's your favorite LA bar?

VP: Chateau Marmont

CIH: Do you have a favorite LA "hidden treasure"?

VP: The Hollywood Bowl. I'm not sure how hidden it is.

CIH: Favorite Meal?

VP: Lasagna and Pizza

CIH: Prosecco Mojito OR Grapefruit Margarita?

VP: BOTH.

CIH: What's your favorite shoe for Spring?

VP: I'm loving the Alexander Wang booties and Proenza Schouler heels.

Check out her website HERE.

CONCEPT LA - Fall / Winter 2011

Last night, I attended CONCEPT LA -- a fantastic event featuring local designers at the historic Springs Arts Tower downtown. 

Will soon post all of my findings, pictures and interviews!

CHICKEN AND SUN DRIED TOMATOES

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY!

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After a long day of work, who wants to stand in the kitchen and make a fantastic meal for their man themselves?

I want the most fabulous, most decadent meal without the killer calories or effort. 

The following dish uses simple seasonings and minimal ingredients for a kick-ass main course!

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• Chicken (I prefer tenders)
• Can of Julienne Sliced Sun Dried Tomatoes (in olive oil)
• Salt and Pepper
• Garlic powder
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional)

In a pan on medium heat: spray your pan with olive oil, lightly season your chicken and the garlic powder, and cook for about 3 minutes per side. You want a nice browning on both sides of the chicken.

Add about a third of the can of sun dried tomatoes. Add the optional pepper flakes for a little heat. Mix together, allowing the flavors to merge for a few minutes. 

Plate and enjoy!


How to Plate: This dish goes great with a nice greens salad, or for more substance, some mashed garlic potatoes.

DAILY HEEL WATCH

Clogs are the must-have shoe for Spring / Summer. 

Get these woven ELIZABETH AND JAMES clogs HERE (at Zappos)

HEY WINTER: IT'S A WRAP (OF PROSCIUTTO)!

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY!

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It's the first week of Spring, and that can only mean one thing: Spring Cleaning. 

The time of the year to clean out the old, bring in the new, and wrap up all of the incomplete tasks you've started in the new year.  

I know, it's a real schlep, but who said life was easy?

Consider this dish as a present to yourself-- something easy. An easy appetizer for entertaining that is fresh, tasty, and fabulous. 

The trifecta of what Cooking in Heels is all about. 

(Did I mention gorgeous?)

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• Prosciutto slices 
• 2 cups of Arugula
• Handful of Parmesan 
• Olive oil (I used a red pepper flake infused spicy olive oil)

The ingredients are simple enough, don't you think?

In a bowl, toss the arugula with olive oil and Parmesan (salt and pepper to taste).

Lay out your prosciutto, slice in half, and add a bit of the arugula mixture right in. Roll it up!

How to Plate: On a beautiful dish in a modern row. 

Parve: Replace the prosciutto with some Hebrew National meat from the deli counter. Forget the Parmesan, and keep it simple!

DAILY HEEL WATCH

Prada's Brand New Plex Sandals

Hamptons Summer Party anyone?

(Get them HERE at Barneys)

DAILY HEEL WATCH - SPRING LOVIN'

Hello floral gorgeousness!

Get these Pradas HERE at Bergdorfs.

LITTLE MISS PIGGY (CANDY)

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY!

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I went to this delicious restaurant called MARCHE in Los Angeles, and had an appetizer called "Pig Candy" -- granted, not the most appetizing name for a dish, but we tried it. And it was delicious. 

I have altered the dish, replacing the bacon with turkey bacon-- and the integrity was NOT lost.

This recipe is perfect as a little snack to have with some red wine (always a must!), as an appetizer, or along with a cheese plate.

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• Turkey Bacon (I used 5 slices) -- obviously, you can use regular bacon... or veggie bacon?
• 2 tablespoons of Brown Sugar
• Dash of Cayenne Pepper

Cut your bacon into bite-size pieces. Spray your pan with some olive oil and add the meat on medium heat, for a nice even cook. 

One the bacon starts getting crispy, sprinkle the brown sugar in the pan, and the dash or two  of cayenne pepper-- be aware: the cayenne pepper is STRONG, so take it easy!

Let the sugar coat the bacon, created an almost jerky-like texture. Remove from the heat, and serve!

FASHION WEEK TO WORK WEEK - LONG LIVE THE MCQUEEN

For his post-mortem final show in Paris, Alexander McQueen's show was nothing short of fabulous. 

The runway featured Dark Ages inspired garb, and a fantastical collection of embellished platformed shoes.

Get the new Christian Louboutin embellished platforms HERE at Barneys.

ECO CHIC IN THE KITCH (VEGAN COOKIES)

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY!

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It's never too difficult to be environmentally friendly, and with the help of Priscilla Woolworth, granddaughter of the famed Woolworth brand, we are taking eco-chic to a whole new level!

Priscilla opened an online general store that sells environmentally friendly products for your kitchen and home.

In the spirit of healthy, organic living, I have made some of my FAVORITE VEGAN COOKIES using Priscilla's 100% Recycled Aluminum Foil. 

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• 2 cups of whole wheat flour 
• 1/2 cup of rolled oats
• 1 cup of organic brown sugar
• Sprinkle of cinnamon

• 1/4 cup of butter/margarine alternative
• 1/4 cup or water
• teaspoon of baking soda

• 1 handful of vegan carob chips OR an assortment of nuts and raisins

 Mix the top group of dry ingredients in a large bowl. 

In a smaller bowl, microwave or heat the butter substitute until melted and mix in the water and baking soda. Make sure this is fully mixed. 

Add the wet ingredients to the dry, and knead with your hands thoroughly. 

Once the dough is room temperature (not hot as to melt the chips) add in the carob chips and/or nuts.

The cookies may seem a little dry, if so, add a teaspoon of water and knead in. 

On a tray lined with 100% Recycled Aluminum Foil, lightly sprayed with olive oil, place the cookies (flattened) onto the tray and bake for 15-18 minutes on 375.

Enjoy!

How to Plate: On a nice tray with a large cold glass of Soy Milk :)

FIND MORE FABULOUS ECO-PRODUCTS AT http://www.priscillawoolworth.com/

FASHION WEEK TO WORK WEEK - HERE COMES SPRING!

All Over Print was seen all over the Miu Miu Spring 2010 RTW collection in Paris last October.

 Get the print pump look with Giuseppi Zanotti ($595) // Louboutin ($845) // BCBGeneration ($75)

DAILY HEEL WATCH

Sorry for the break in recipes-- I was out last week doing some Stand Up in LA.

I will be back tomorrow with some new amazing meals!

In the meantime, simply adore these Balenciagas from Paris Fashion Week for Fall 2010.

FASHION WEEK TO WORK WEEK

Dries Van Noten Fall 2010 Ready to Wear (Paris last week!) featured some fabulous alligator pumps with beaded and embroidered detail on the toe. The juxtaposition of the rough and rugged with the glamorous is a great concept to bring into your wardrobe.

At Home: Go with an EMBOSSED LEATHER HEEL... embellished with a VINTAGE SHOE CLIP!

Heels here:

http://www.zappos.com/enzo-angiolini-purple-light-grey-croc

http://www.zappos.com/romantic-soles-hills-black-croco

http://www.zappos.com/promiscuous-animalistic-brown-croc-w-giraffe

(Shoe Clips here: Absolutely Audrey and Great Vintage Jewelry)

DAILY HEEL WATCH - PRETTY IN PINK

Nothing says Spring like Pale Pink!

(Get these stunning Miu Miu at BARNEYS)

DAILY HEEL WATCH - BASKET CASE

Check these MIU MIU Basket Pumps at BARNEYS!

DESSERT FOR ONE

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY!

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I give into my love for chocolate almost every night by having a square of dark chocolate over 70 percent cacao.

I make myself think I am being heart healthy, which I am-- it's better than having milk chocolate!

If this doesn't satisfy my need for sweets, I turn to NO PUDGE FUDGE. It's super easy (I wouldn't make it otherwise) and tastes a-maz-ing.

In the pic above, you'll see a added a sprinkle of powdered sugar to "fancy" it up.

Have a delightful and satisfying weekend!

FASHION WEEK TO WORK WEEK

Black Sleek booties on Aminaka Wilmont's London Runway TO Gucci's stunners (at Neimans)

IN-N-OUT (MY WAY) - PROTEIN STYLE AND THE GOOD OLE WAY

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY!

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I am human. And sometimes, I crave a double double.

But the guilt always seems to creep up on me-- especially on a Sunday morning after having a late night burger!

Below, kick the guilt and find a great alternative to the Double Double (made with Turkey)

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• 1 lb turkey ground (4-5 patties)
  
• gourmet deli cheese - gouda, munster, your pick
• whole wheat buns OR romaine hearts (for protein style)
  
• seasonings: salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika
• ketchup
• onion slices (optional)
  

Mix the meat with seasoning and mix before putting on the stove top. A good amount of salt is KEY,

Make into patties and cook, about 6-9 minutes on medium heat per side. Make sure the burger is fully cooked through before adding your cheese!

Parve: Leave out the cheese and use Empire Kosher Turkey (always my meat of choice!).

Treif: Heck, ADD bacon!

DAILY HEEL WATCH

The Essential YSL T Strap!

(Get them here at BARNEYS)

THE HEALTHY COBB

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY!

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Who said a Cobb salad HAD to be the most fattening? Not I!

Feel good about having the below salad.

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• Blue cheese (hand full of crumbes)
  
• Chopped tomato
• 1 lb Deli sliced roasted Chicken (I prefer Everroast from Boars Head)
  
• Chopped Romaine hearts (4 cups)
  
• 1/2 Avocado
• Dressing of your choice
• 4-6 slices of Turkey bacon OR veggie "Baco" bites
• Egg whites (2 eggs)
  

Chop all items and toss in a large salad bowl.

Sprinkle some crumbled blue cheese right on top. Drizzle lightly with your dressing choice. Enjoy!

FASHION WEEK TO WORK WEEK

Get these Proenza Schoulers from the Runway for your Work day!

(get them HERE at Zappos)