Foodie Find: Epicurious App

I'm always looking for new recipes--oftentimes it seems that the hubs and I get in a rut of what food we make on a regular basis. We're often on the go, so I need something that is quick and easy to access away from the computer. That's where the Epicurious app comes in handy. 

I love everything about this app--it's easy to navigate, has multiple search functionalities and you can even browse by seasonal  categories. Most recently, I had to make a birthday treat for work and was able to look through the "Fall Desserts" category and find something delicious and easy to make. Another plus on this app is the ability to add any recipe to your "Favorites" category or make a shopping list for the grocery store. 

If you haven't already done so, download the Epicurious app here for your mobile or tablet device. 

On the subject of apps, do you have a favorite to share? I'd love to hear what apps you're using that you couldn't live without!

Foodie Find: Blue Grotto Takeout

Blue Grotto Chef's Antipasti Platter 

There are times you just don't feel like cooking. Or eating out. Delivery is really not an option in Kansas City unless you want pizza or Chinese, so the last resort is often takeout. The first time we tried Blue Grotto, which is located in Brookside, we actually did eat in the restaurant. We had a Groupon-type coupon and went there straight after work one evening, so we were able to take advantage of the happy hour specials as well. Everything we had was fabulous, from the wine to the pizza, but what we enjoyed the most was the Antipasti Platter.

Like the description says, the Antipasti Platter is Chef's choice so the items included vary from time to time but we've never been disappointed. It always includes various meats, cheeses and veggies such as marinated mushrooms or asparagus, as well as flatbread and baguette slices. This time around, it included prosciutto, salami, cured olives, marinated mushrooms, and Gorgonzola and asiago cheeses. The amount of food you get for $17 is astounding. I mean, you could barely get that much prosciutto at the grocery store for $17 alone.

Next time you don't feel like cooking, stop by and pick up the Antipasti Platter for yourself. You seriously can't go wrong.

Foodie Find: Pasta Measuring Tool

One thing that I always have issues with is knowing how much pasta to cook. When you're making dinner for two, it seems to be even more difficult. I mainly struggle with this when making normal spaghetti or angel hair, simply because whenever I put the dry pasta in the pot, it never seems like enough.

A standard serving of pasta for two is two ounces. I ask you, what does two ounces of pasta actually look like? Because, I have no clue. Or least I had no clue. After doing some research, two ounces measures the diameter of a quarter, which yields about one cup of cooked pasta. However, if you're like me and will forget this fun little fact, there are other ways to get your measurement correct for two servings and beyond.

Kitrics Pasta Measure

from Target

If you don't have a ton of storage space in your kitchen, 

this compact tool is a great option.

Joseph Joseph Spaghetti Measure

from Sur La Table

This tool has a sliding scale that measures servings from 1-4.

Pasta Trivet

from Unica Home

A multi-functioning tool not only measures serving sizes 

but doubles as a trivet for your hot pot.

Do you use any tricks for making sure you cook the right amount of pasta? I'd love to hear any tips you might have!