HIP TIP (FOR THE FIRST DAY OF SPRING)

Today is the day.
The first day of Spring.
And here is a tip that will knock your socks off!

We all know that Orange Juice is good for your insides-- your heart, your mood, bone health, digestion, and even your eyesight.

BUT DID YOU KNOW the Vitamin C in the OJ stimulates your skin to produce collagen to fill in wrinkles?

Add OJ to some honey to create a deep cleaning and rejuvenating mask.

• A tablespoon of Honey
• A teaspoon of OJ

Mix well and apply to face (INCLUDING your eye area). Let it sit for about 15 minutes, and rinse with lukewarm water.

LOW CARB PIZZA

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY!

It seems that everyone these days is on a diet. There's the Cabbage Soup Diet, 24 Hour Diet of the Stars, South Beach Diet, the Zone—and of course, the popular Atkins diet.

Kvell and plotz over your rice-less sushi all you want, but lowering your carbohydrate intake DOES in fact prove to be the most effective method of losing weight.

Here is a low carb, whole grain alternative to eating a New York slice (but you still have to go to your Pilates class):

**

• Whole Wheat Tortillas

• 1 can / jar of Marinara sauce (NO chunks)
• 1 bag of shredded Pizza Cheese (aka Mozzarella) and/ or fresh shredded Parmesan

Spray both sides of tortilla with a bit of cooking oil (aka PAM). Put in oven (on tin foil) for about 2 minutes on each side at 350. This makes for a crispy crust.

Take the tortilla out and spread with marinara and top with your cheese. Act like one of those pizza guys, but don’t make a mess on the floor. Put the mini pizza back in the oven and cook until cheese bubbles and the top browns. Take out and BE PATIENT—the pizza must cool for a few minutes before you take a knife to it.

How to Plate: Cut the mini pizza as you would a large one. The pieces are very cute. This works great as an appetizer!

Note for Goyisha: Top with any meat like grilled chicken to add protein in this yummy dish!

I've Always Said...

... that the way to a man's heart is through his stomach.

And I have yet to be proven wrong!

My boyfriend JUST became my fiance (I said "yes") -- so please excuse the lack of posts this week!

I promise to let you all in on:

• the "last meal" I made for him before he popped the big question
  
• an amazing Hip Tip that will blow you away
  
• and, of course, some fabulous NEW shoes

Stay tuned!

Sara

DAILY HEEL WATCH - ST. PATTY'S DAY EDITION

Lanvin's Puffy Knot T-Strap (courtesy of Barneys)

Bring on the Guinness!

SWITCH IT UP (IN BED AND ON THE TABLE FOR DINNER)

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY!

*

Sometimes, you need a little variety in your life.

Whether its changing the way you drive to work one random morning, checking out a new restaurant-- or maybe even wearing a wig to bed (if you know what I mean)!

Why not try a Tapas night at your place?

Tapas are essentially appetizers... or, how I like to refer to them, "finger food."

So, switch it up and do a night of drinks and tapas with a loved one.

Here is a beginner's tapas: my low carb chicken quesadilla.

**

• Rotisserie Chicken from the grocery store
• 1 package of a shredded cheese blend
• Low carb tortillas
• Pre-made guacamole (OR 1 avocado, diced with a squirt of lemon juice)
• Salsa ( I prefer the fresh Pico de Gallo in the fridge section)
• Sour cream (optional)
• Jar of diced jalapenos (optional)
  

Don't bother cooking the chicken yourself. You need to save your energy.

Shred the chicken with two forks, breaking it up into small pieces.

In an oiled pan, place your tortilla flat. Sprinkle with cheese first, then the chicken.

Add jalapenos for heat if you'd like. Wait until the cheese starts to melt, and fold the tortilla in half. Let it sit for a moment, then transfer to plate.

How to Plate: Use a pizza cutter to slice to quesadilla into 4 slices. Customize your toppings with pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream, or even a sprinkle of more cheese!

DAILY HEEL WATCH

Christian Louboutin's City Heel (courtesy of Barneys New York)

I love the architectural Art Deco aspect of these.

DAILY HEEL WATCH

Miu Miu's A Line Nude Pump (courtesy of Barneys New York)

HELLO, GORGEOUS!

JUST BEET (MOZZARELLA ENDIVE SALAD) IT

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY VEY / OY VEZ MEAR

*

Let me just first point out the importance of going out to eat. Besides helping the economy every once in a while, dining out can serve many-a-nights inspiration.

Just this past weekend, I went to the new and very hip hot spot, CECCONI'S on Robertson.

Besides the handful of "celeb sightings," my eyes fell on the gorgeous Arabescato marble floors... and onto the table as they served me the below dish.

This is my simple take on it, of course.

**

• 4 Beets
• Container of Mozzarella (in water)
• Bag of Arugula ( I used a mix)
• Endive
  
• Olive oil and Balsamic Vinegar
• Salt and Pepper

I can't stress the importance of buying gourmet olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It can be pricey, but the quality is priceless in a dish like this.

First, wash and cut the beets into small pieces. Spray a baking tray and toss them in the oven for about 15 minutes on 400 preheated. The reason I consider this dish an "OY VEZ MEAR"is because of the beets. Remember to wash your hands thoroughly while dealing with the beets. The only color I like on my hands is on my nails.

While the beets are in the oven, rinse the arugula and chop the endive.

In a small bowl, quickly stir 2 parts olive oil and 1 part balsamic vinegar together. Add salt and pepper to taste. A squeeze of lemon juice is optional!

Remove mozzarella from water and chop. Sprinkle with salt and pepper separately. When the beets are done, add them to the greens and toss with the dressing. Add the mozzarella, saving the best for last.

Plate and enjoy!

HEEL DOUBLE TAKE

1. Baker's CHLEO $79.95 (courtesy of bakersshoes.com)

2. L.A.M.B.'s HUNTER $384.00 (courtesy of zappos.com)

HIP TIP - SALT

"POUR SOME SALT ON ME"

OK, I know those aren't the lyrics BUT the warm weather is coming (soon, I hope) and it's now time to start getting ready for that Glowing Spring Skin.

All you need is that one same ingredient you need for french fries.

SALT

SALT SCRUB:

Yes, it's one of the simplest and effective methods for exfoliating.

Mix a handful with a dash of olive oil (no garlic infused, please) and massage it over your skin. Avoid your face and delicate areas. Rough patches, like your thighs, elbows, arms and knees could use a bit more attention.

Thoroughly remove all residue (and sloughed off skin) with a warm shower.

Soon, your exfoliation will reveal healthy, glowing Spring skin!

SALT BATH:
Epsom salt is best for a relaxing and wonderful bath to ease your muscles, soothe your aches and reduce swelling!

Make a custom scented bath by adding a few drops of lavender oil to the warm water.

2 cups of Epsom salt is the perfect amount for a tub soak!

DAILY HEEL WATCH

Christian Louboutin's Platform Cage Sandal (courtesy of Neiman Marcus)

Put me in a cage for these!

RECESSION PROOF YOUR CLOSET

BY COOKING AT HOME (IN HEELS, OF COURSE!)

The more you save, the more you'll have to spend on those sexy Louboutins...

DAILY HEEL WATCH

Loeffler Randall's Asymmetrical Zip Sandal (courtesy of Eluxury.com)

LADIES NIGHT (AKA BOOZING WITH THE GALS)

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY!

*

Sometimes, you gotta say "EFF the guys. I need a Girls Night."

And this is the drink to celebrate just that.

Along with a fabulous meal of Tortilla Crusted Chicken-- you should wash it down with a Beer Margarita.

**

• One Can of Frozen Limeade
  
• 4 Light Beers
  
• 2 Cups of Tequila (or more, to taste)

Mix all ingredients together in a pitcher. Throw in a few ice cubes. Enjoy on the rocks.

DAILY HEEL WATCH

Stella McCartney's Bow Sandal (courtesy of Barneys New York)

Nude = Spring.

IT'S IN THE BAG

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY / OY VEY!

*

The only time you ever really know you are "in good" with a Jewish guy's family is when you meet the Bubbe.

Adam's Grandma made us his all-time favorite meal-- her special brisket and split pea soup. It was delicious. The taste of cooking with love that just can't be beat.

Months later, I was discussing how great that split pea soup was with another family member-- who GAVE me the secret recipe (below)… and now I am divulging this secret to you!

It’s perfect for your home away from home.

**

• Maneshewitz Split Pea Soup (bagged soup mix)
• Water
• chopped Carrots, chopped Celery, minced Garlic (optional)

Oy Vey: Olive oil your pan on medium heat. Add carrots, garlic and celery until soft. Transfer into a pot and follow bagged soup directions.

Oy: Follow the directions on the package.

THE APHRODISIAC OF ALL APHRODISIACS

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY / OY VEY!

*

Chocolate. Yes, chocolate.

However, I do believe those Dove commercials with the brown silk sheets fluttering as the women eat chocolate while moaning wildly is a bit too much.

The following recipe is all about personalizing your dessert. If serving during a dinner party, this looks like you spent the whole day on it. The reality is, that it take about 10 minutes and an hour to set in the freezer.

**

• 3 Chocolate bars (I prefer dark -- over 60 percent)
• Nuts and Berries (I've used almonds, pistachios, and dried cranberries. Try cashews.)
• Dash of Canola oil.

Break up all the chocolate into squares. You can melt the chocolate two ways. Oy: in a pyrex bowl in the microwave. Oy Vey: in a pyrex bowl over a pot of boiling water (through contact heat).

Once the chocolate is melted, coat a pyrex dish or baking tray with either wax paper or saran wrap. Spray very very very lightly with Canola oil (Pam).

Pour the slightly cooled chocolate onto the tray. Sprinkle your selected nuts and berries or dried fruit onto the chocolate.

Throw into the freezer for about an hour.

How to Plate: Break the chocolate bar into large pieces and stack organically.

DAILY HEEL WATCH - THE MONDAY BLUES

Manolo Blahniks (courtesy of Barneys New York)

DAILY HEEL WATCH - WEEKEND EDITION

Forever 21's Floral Peep Toe Pumps (courtesy of Forever21.com)

For just under 21 bucks...

DON'T BE TOO EASY (PISTACHIO CRUSTED CHICKEN)

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY!

*

It's one thing if your dinner is easy.

It's a whole other thing if YOU are.

You don't want to come across as a kitchen slut. Well, maybe you do after you make this dish!

Believe me, playing hard to get in an active relationship is whole lot more fun than being hard to clean after dinner.

The great thing about this dish is that all you need is a tin foiled baking tray. That's really it.

I guess easy is good.

**

• Chicken (I always prefer tenders)
  
• Salt and Pepper
• Pistachios (I prefer unsalted)

Preheat the oven to 500.

In a food processor, chop the pistachios into small crumbs. Lay out the chopped nuts onto a plate. Add salt and pepper to the pistachios and shuffle around with your finger tips.

Take each piece of chicken and press onto the pistachio plate, covering the meat completely. No need for egg or anything like that.

Spray a tin foil lined tray with cooking oil. Arrange the chicken in one layer. Bring the heat in the oven down to 400, and toss the chicken in there for about 20 minutes.

How to Plate: Serve over mashed potatoes, spinach, or perhaps on a salad with some raspberry vinaigrette!

HOW TO COOK CHICKEN WITHOUT GETTING SALMONELLA

How do you know when the chicken is done? Good question.

My friends who don’t know how to cook ask me this all the time.

Here are the rules of thumb for cooking salmonella-free meat:

If you are cooking your chicken in a pan, as a beginner, it is always best to pound your chicken. Put your raw cutlets in a plastic bag and pound them with a hammer or empty bottle of wine (now you have an excuse to drink that bottle of red!) to thin the meat. When you cook meat like this, it takes less time to cook through and there is less room for error.

Another tip: Get your pan up to high heat and brown the chicken on both sides. This seals in the natural juices. Then, pop it in the oven to make sure it cooks through. This way, even if you over-cook it, the chicken is still nice and juicy and not dry.

And if you still aren’t sure, feel free to cut one piece in half as you cook to check it out yourself. Make sure you always wash your hands after touching raw meat!

DAILY HEEL WATCH

Baker's VINA Peep Toe (courtesy of Bakersshoes.com)

BEING (TRIPLE) BERRY GOOD IN BED

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY!

*

Look, I'm not saying you aren't good in bed.

But I AM saying that after a big, heavy meal and rich creamy dessert, it's likely that:

a. You don't feel as sexy with a full belly.
b. You are more lethargic.
c. You're probably thinking more about getting a good night's rest than getting busy.

Here is a dessert that is fresh, light, yummy, amazing... and will make you feel the same.

This way, you can get your REAL dessert after dessert.

**

· Bag of Frozen mixed Berries
· 1 tub of Light Whip Cream

Let the berries defrost.
In a large, beautiful clear bowl or martini glass, layer a spoonful of berries, then whip, berry layer, whip, berry layer, whip. Toss a few berries on top or slice a strawberry for the rim of the martini glass! Dish out this multi-layered fresh and healthy dessert.

Parve: Use a whip substitute or have fresh berries plain! Presentation is everything… you can get away with beautiful berries in martini cups!

DAILY HEEL WATCH

Calvin Klein's Cali Strappy Sandal (courtesy of Bloomingdales)

HOW TO FEEL FAT (TUESDAY)

Okay. This drink is my version of the New Orleans Hurricane.

I guess you could call it the LA Earthquake. Just don't drink too many of these or you'll end up taking the title too literally.

The biggest difference is swapping out the Passion Fruit juice for good ole Guava juice.

Here it is:

• 1 ounce light rum


• 1 ounce dark rum


• 1 ounce guava juice


• Juice of 1/2 lime

Mix it up, add some ice, and enjoy!

DAILY HEEL WATCH

Christian Louboutin's Bow T Dorcet (courtesy of Barneys New York)

What a way to jump start a Monday morning!

HIP TIP - SUGAR SUGAR

Kissable lips in need of some buffer?

Just use Sugar and Vaseline -- slough off that dead skin!

Empty a packet of sugar in your palm and a few dabs of Vaseline.
Mix together and apply to your lips in a circular motion.
Wipe off gently.

Now go out, enjoy and PUT TO USE your freshly luscious lips!

DAILY HEEL WATCH

Proenza Schouler's Black T Strap Pumps (courtesy of Zappos.com)

Robert Palmer said it best-- "You might as well face it, I'm addicted to shoes."
That's what he said, right?

If you've been paying any attention to NY Fashion Week, you know that the 1980s are back in a major way. I'm not talking about the Madonna lace leggings 80s -- that's been back for a while now. I'm talking about the over-sized blazers with shoulder pads 80s.

And I like it.

JUST PRESS PLAY

YOU CAN NOW...

Subscribe to my site VIA EMAIL!

How cool is that?!

So, sign up! The email box is on the right!

Get your daily dose of delicious recipes and fabulous heels sent DIRECTLY to your email!

DAILY HEEL WATCH

Jimmy Choo's Crisscross Platform Sandal (courtesy of Bergdorf Goodman)

Just like Kriss Kross, these shoes make me wanna "Jump! Jump!"

Believe Dat.

HIP TIP - HONEY AND EGG

The unlikely fabulous face mask you can easily find in your kitchen: honey and eggs.

Eggs are rich in protein, vitamins and minerals that can nourish, while honey tightens pores and moisturizes the skin.

For OILY skin, use egg white only. This draws out the oil.
For DRY skin, use egg yolk only. This acts as a great moisturizer.
For COMBO skin, use both!

Scramble the egg and honey mixture together and apply to your recently washed face.

Once the mask hardens, rinse thoroughly with warm water.

WARNING: Please DO NOT use the leftovers for an egg sandwich!

About HIP TIPS

For the show, (the web pilot coming soon!) I include a section called HIP TIPS.

These are fantastic non-food related tips and recipes with your everyday kitchen items.

I hope you enjoy!

WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS...

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: (less than) OY!

*

I present to you...

(DRUM ROLL, PLEASE )

My Jewish Mother's Favorite Recipe.

**

• Phone book
• Pointer finger
• Vehicle
• A voice (preferably not nagging)
• Phone (may use cellular)

Finger through to the Restaurant section in your local Yellow Pages. Find a lovely place to eat. Pick up the phone and dial the given number. Use your “phone voice” to speak with the host or hostess, leaving your name, dining time, and party size.

Get into your vehicle, and head to the restaurant.

Order whatever you want.

Remember, it’s OK to be a bit of a yenta… it’s in your blood.

TREND WATCH - BIKER CHIC

Kick some ass, take some names, and look SEXY while doing it!

1. Rock & Republic's Rebecca Peep Heel $449.00 (courtesy of Zappos.com)
2. Baker's Danaka $69.95 (courtesy of Bakersshoes.com)
3. Sirgerson Morrison Studded Wedge $795.00 (courtesy of Barneys New York)
4. Manolo Blahnik's Creon $865.00 (courtesy of Barneys New York)

DAILY HEEL WATCH

Lanvin's Metallic Woven Slingback Sandals (courtesy of Barneys New York)

All this LA rain is making me daydream about a tropical paradise vacation. And these fantastic shoes I would take anywhere. Although, I don't know if I could get through airport security with those metal heels.

THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE PRESIDENT'S DAY SALES

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY!

*

I just woke up from a horrible dream—I was in Loehmann’s and all they had were one-size-too-small deliciously fabulous Marc Jacobs pants.

Miserable.

When I really need something that will take me literally 5 minutes to make, is hearty and healthy, and will make any child, adult, or alta cocker happy.

**

• 1 Cup of Oatmeal
• Raisins (handful)
• Cinnamon (2-3 dashes)
• Nutmeg (2-3 dashes)
• Banana (half cut into little slices)
• Hot Water (on stovetop or in microwave)

Add your oats and handful of raisins into a dry bowl. Make sure the water is hot and add it in. Live on the edge and wing it if you don’t know if you like your oatmeal on the “wet” or “dry” side.

Give it a minute to really soak into the oats AND raisins. This plumps up the raisins and makes them extra juicy. Add your dashes of spice to the bowl while mixing it up thoroughly.

How to Plate: To top it all off, add some slices of banana to get a delicious and hearty start to your day!

Treif: Add a dash of milk to your rolled oats. Eat turkey immediately after!

DAILY HEEL WATCH - VALENTINES WEEKEND EDITION

The Nadiah Pump (courtesy of SteveMadden.com)

Get Down, Get Sexy!

This weekend, go all out and wear those HEELS (with nothing else on) for your honey...

Happy Valentines Day.
- Sara

SOUP IS REALLY FOR THE SOUL

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY!

*

There is something magical about using just one pot to make a whole meal. Clean up is a breeze.

Seems easy, right?

What doesn't seem easy is heading over to your closest Jerry's Famous Deli and spending ten to fifteen bucks on a salty salty soup that tastes nothin like what your grandma used to make.

Here is an alternative to getting in your car (or worse-- spending the extra charge for delivery) and spending your shoe money on something that is truly a ONE POT WONDER.

**

• Bouillon cubes, broth, or my favorite "Better Than Bouillon" in the market-- I buy the vegetarian chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 lb of Chicken or cutlets OR buy an already cooked rotisserie one at the grocery store
• Bag of Instant Whole Wheat Rice (the one that come in little bags) or about 1 cup cooked
• Teaspoon of chopped Garlic
• Handful of Carrots
• Handful of Arugula

Boil 2 cups of broth or 4 cups of water. Add the appropriate amount of bouillon to the water to make it broth. Once boiling, throw in your raw chicken for about 10-15 minutes until it's done. If you are using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, skip this step.
Time to shred the chicken. You do this by using two forks and shredding while pulling apart the meat.

Toss out the broth already in the pot (or you can skim the fat that has risen to the top -- I prefer a fresh start) and boil 6 cups of new broth (or water and bouillon) in that same pot.

Throw in some chopped carrots, arugula, garlic and your instant rice. If it's in the bag, cut the bag open and let the rice swim free. Last, but not least, put the shredded chicken back in.

Let the pot simmer until the carrots are soft and the rice cooked. Serve and indulge.

THE IMPORTANCE OF GROWN UP MAC N CHEESE

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY!

*

I love it. I grew up on it.

But, it's time to grow up.

The following recipe is fresh delicious, and relatively stress-free. So, break out the cheese, pasta (and the other fixings) and enjoy!

**

• 1/2 a pound of Whole Wheat Pasta -- I prefer angel hair: quick to cook, hard to mess up.
• 3 handfuls of either Cherry or Grape Tomatoes. (This is a type of tomato, not some special "grape" flavor.)
• 1 and a half cups of Arugula (or just one heaping handful)
• 1 heaping teaspoon of crushed Garlic (or less)
• 1/4 to a half a cup of Olive Oil
• 2oz of Goat Cheese
• two pinches of Salt
• five pinches of Pepper
• two pinches of Dried Basil
  

In a pot, boil water and throw in the pasta.

In a small bowl, combine the garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper and basil. Mix. Halve the tomatoes or leave them as is. Add the arugula and tomatoes to the bowl and coat with the oil mix. Put half of the mixture into a larger bowl.

When the pasta is ready, strain. Add to this larger bowl.

Toss in the rest of the olive oil, tomato and arugula mixture. Crumble up and drop in the two ounces of goat cheese and mix all together.

DAILY HEEL WATCH

Christian Dior's Miss Dior Stingray Pumps (courtesy of Bergdorfs)

I'd like to get stung in these!

OVERCOME YOUR FEAR OF BEING ROASTED (VEGGIES) BY YOUR GUY!

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY!

*

Get over your fear of rejection at the dining table. If you want to make a nice dinner, make something that is tried and true! Chicken and veggies.

Nowadays, you can steam them, wok them, microwave them, grill them. Perhaps the most overlooked easy and elegant way of making vegetables is giving them the old "roast."

**

• Bag of Baby Zucchini
• Bag of Baby Carrots
• Package of Chicken (cutlets or tenders)
• Salt and Pepper
• Chopped, Crushed or Minced Garlic
• Canola oil (spray like Pam)

Cut your baby veggies in halves. Spray your Pam on a tin-foiled baking tray and lay out the carrots and zucchini face up. Salt and pepper with a heavy hand. Set the oven at 410 and put them in before the oven is preheated.

In a hot pan, spray with Pam and toss in your chicken. I prefer tenders (easier to make sure they fully cook) but you can use cutlets. While cooking in the pan, sprinkle with salt and pepper and a teaspoon of crushed garlic. The easiest way to "make" this is buying it in a jar from the grocery store. Smear the garlic over the chicken as it browns on both sides. Spray some oil in a pyrex dish and throw in the browned chicken. If they are almost done, cover with tine foil. Put that in the oven on the unused rack.

By this time, the veggies have been in the oven for about 15 minutes. Pump up the oven to 430 and keep everything in there for another 15 minutes.


How to Plate: The veggies are that unexpected, beautiful element in the dish. Alternate the carrots and zucchini (see my pic above) and stack. You can either plate the chicken and veggies apart or place the chicken above the roasted delights.

If you are having a dinner party and are serving the vegetables on their own platter, stack them as high as they can go!