What is COOKING IN HEELS all about?

COOKING IN HEELS is a comic and practical cookbook blog for the modern Glamazon learning her way around the kitchen.

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

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!
*
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!

**
  • 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!
*
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?)
**
  • 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!
*

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.

**

  • 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!
*
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. 

**
  • 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

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!
*
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!
*
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)
**

  • 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!



THE HEALTHY COBB


DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY!
*

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

Feel good about having the below salad.
**
  • 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)

ONE CRAZY MEXICAN (PIZZA) SUMMER


DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY!
*
Many women like to boast and brag about the hottest places they've made love.

Personally, I like to keep my private life private.

Why would I want to share that with everyone?!


(Okay, we did it in Mexico in the Summer -- and yes, it was about 110 degrees. Hot enough?)


This following dish brings me back to that wild night.

Or, it can create a wild night for you and your love,

OR would be perfect to start off a Girls Night with my Grapefruit Margarita!

**

  • Whole Wheat or flour tortillas
  • 1 jar of Salsa (as spicy as you want)
  • 1 bag of shredded Mexican cheese blend: Monterey Jack, Cheddar, Queso, and Asadero cheeses
  • Guacamole (optional)


Spray both sides of tortilla with a bit of cooking oil. 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 salsa 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. Add guacamole!

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!

DAILY HEEL WATCH


Love at First Sight with these Alexander Wang Pump Booties! (Get them HERE)

PRESIDENTS DAY CAN ONLY MEAN ONE THING - DRINKING


DIFFICULTY LEVEL: OY!
*
Something to brighten up your Valentines Day hangover --a loving serving of "ruby red" grapefruit margaritas!

Enjoy your day off!
**
  • 1.5 oz of tequila (I prefer silver)
  • 3 ice cubes (kept it "heart shaped")
  • 1 oz of orange liqueur
  • 3 oz grapefruit juice
  • 1 oz of Fresca, Sprite or 7 Up (I used Fresca)
Mix all together and drink responsibly.

KEEP THE ROMANCE GOING


Keep the romance going with Quady wines. (Visit them here)

MAKING VALENTINES SWEET - PART 2


On the flip side of alcohol content (20% Alc Vol), I simply ADORE Quady's BATCH 88 STARBOARD -- It is simply divine.

I could literally sit and drink it all day... or I can serve it to my love on Sunday.


This Starboard is full of flavor-- something the winemakers pride themselves in-- a blend of vintages that have an average age of about 5 years.


This bottle is really something special. You can drizzle it over practically anything, drink it by itself, or, as I did, pair it up with some homemade dark chocolate pecan clusters. (See my Chocolate BARK recipe here)

This really brought out the chocolate raisin character of the "port."


Get typing -- 88 Starboard is amazing. Pick up a bottle for your special someone!

Visit QUADY WINERY at
http://www.quadywinery.com/

MAKING VALENTINES SWEET - PART 1


For a fresh and light Valentines Day dessert (or if you are saving dessert for later... if you know what I mean) --
I prefer
Quady's RED ELECTRA -- a low alcohol, sweet and light fruity wine.

It really is divine for dessert OR to accompany a fruit salad on a warm summer day.


I paired it with a simple raspberry sorbet.

That's really all you need to make a special night!


Get some here at Quady Winery)

NOTHING SAYS I LOVE YOU... LIKE ALCOHOL


Valentines Day is fast approaching.

And, like me, I'm sure you busy working girls haven't really planned everything out just yet.

Well, let me help you.

Quady Winery is located just a few hours away from Los Angeles or SF. They specialize solely in a California Dessert Wines, perfect for making your Valentines Day (or any occasion, really) much sweeter and more fabulous.

You can take a drive up to visit for a tasting of their delicious wines, and bring your little trip home with you to continue to enjoy... or you can order online or by phone.

The best thing about Quady dessert wines, is that they do all the work for you.
And, believe me, I have no problem letting them!

Yes, you can just have a glass AS dessert.
Yes, you can do what I call a "Drink and Drizzle."
And Yes, you can do whatever you want after a few glasses behind closed doors.

I will be posting quite a few highlights and dessert / dessert wine ideas to make your Valentines Day as sweet as can be!

Visit Quady at http://www.quadywinery.com/

DAILY HEEL WATCH - MCQUEEN


It saddens me to hear about the loss of a great designer today, Alexander (Lee) McQueen.

Here is a LINK to some of my posts in honor of this fashion genius.

(Get the above McQ heels just in time for V DAY here)