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Berry Vanilla Quinoa Bowl

July 23, 2016

Berry Quinoa Bowl with Roasted Coconut and Slivered Almonds-35Berry Vanilla Quinoa Bowl //

Hello, friends! It sure has been a long time since Nicole and I have posted a recipe here on our sweet blog! We’ve missed you all… and are excited to be back in our creative space! 

So, my family and I recently took a summer road trip to Colorado. Driving from Southern California was going to be quite a long time in the car for our four kids — so we decided to spend one night outside of Zion National Park in Utah. (What a grand adventure that turned out to be! In fact, it was so amazing, that I think I will do a separate post on our travels sometime in the near future.) While staying in the darling town of Springdale, my husband found the most wonderful coffee shop with tasty organic treats for breakfast. He picked up a quinoa breakfast bowl, which I’ve been craving ever since!

This Berry Vanilla Quinoa Bowl was inspired by the one we shared this summer! It’s simple to make, healthy, and insanely delicious! 

Berry Quinoa Bowl with Roasted Coconut and Slivered Almonds-18

Just like making your favorite batch of soup… this quinoa breakfast bowl allows you the freedom to add a pinch of this, a little of that, and whatever fresh fruit, nuts, or seeds you have on hand. The key to making it extra decadent, is infusing the quinoa with hints of vanilla and topping it with a drizzle of pure maple syrup.

Berry Quinoa Bowl with Roasted Coconut and Slivered Almonds-15

For this particular variation, I topped my prepared quinoa with fresh blueberries, sweet blackberries, roasted coconut, and slivered almonds. I then poured a drizzle of pure maple syrup with a splash of vanilla almond milk, to sweeten things up naturally… and to keep it moist. The end result was absolutely scrumptious! My four kids even approved!;)

Berry Quinoa Bowl with Roasted Coconut and Slivered Almonds-26

TIP // Quinoa will stay fresh in your fridge for up to a week. I recommend placing the cooked quinoa in individual mason jars with lids. This will create a quick, on-the-go, healthy breakfast option for you and the kids! Simply mix in your favorite toppings and enjoy! 

Berry Quinoa Bowl with Roasted Coconut and Slivered Almonds-32

Print Recipe

Berry Vanilla Quinoa Bowl

This Berry Vanilla Quinoa Breakfast Bowl is infused with hints of vanilla and topped with fresh seasonal berries, roasted coconut, slivered almonds, a splash of almond milk, and a drizzle of pure maple syrup. Not only is it irresistibly delicious, but is a clean and healthy way to start the day! It's also kid approved!
Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Total Time20 mins
Course: Breakfast
Servings: 4
Author: Simply Happenstance

Ingredients

  • QUINOA:
  • 1 cup uncooked quinoa
  • 2 cups unsweetened vanilla almond milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or sliced vanilla bean
  • pinch of sea salt
  • TOPPINGS:
  • fresh berries I used blueberries & blackberries
  • roasted coconut I used these
  • slivered almonds
  • splash of unsweetened vanilla almond milk
  • pure maple syrup

Instructions

  • Rinse and drain the quinoa.
  • Place the quinoa in a medium-sized saucepan. Add the almond milk, vanilla extract (or vanilla bean split), and a pinch of salt. Bring to a high simmer, cover, and reduce heat to a low simmer for 15 minutes.
  • After 15 minutes, remove the pan from the heat and let the quinoa sit for 5 more minutes or until the almond milk is absorbed and the quinoa is cooked. (If you used the vanilla bean -- remove now and discard.) Depending on how you like the consistency and flavor -- stir in a splash of almond milk (to increase moisture), and some maple syrup to sweeten (if desired).
  • Scoop the quinoa into four bowls. Top with rinsed berries, roasted coconut, and slivered almonds. Serve with a splash of vanilla almond milk poured on top and a drizzle of pure maple syrup.

Notes

- This dish can be served chilled or warm. To serve chilled, simply place the cooked quinoa in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before topping with fruit, nuts, etc.
- The cooked quinoa can be stored in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. Serve at room temperature or heat it as you're ready to serve. If it's dry, simply add some more almond milk until you reach a consistency you're happy with.
- Get creative and add any seasonal fruit you like. Other optional toppings are: chia seeds, almond butter (or other nut butters), raw honey, cocoa nibs or chocolate chips, and crunchy granola.

 

Berry Quinoa Bowl with Roasted Coconut and Slivered Almonds-36

I hope you enjoy the recipe, friends! Let us know in the comments how you like to prepare your breakfast bowls!

For more of our favorite healthy breakfast bowl ideas, see these recipes from our archives: 

  • Vanilla Chia Seed Pudding

vanilla chia seed pudding {recipe via simplyhappenstance.com}

  • Energizing Smoothie Bowl

energizing smoothie bowl

  • Breakfast Power Bowl

Gluten-Free Breakfast Power Bowl || Simply Happenstance

  • Apple Pie Breakfast Bowl

Apple Pie Breakfast Bowl - a thick vanilla chia seed pudding topped with fall favorites!

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Filed Under: Food, food

Snowball Cookies

December 13, 2015

Snowball Cookies - a traditional Christmas cookie with added chocolate chips! (Recipe via simplyhappenstance.com)Snowball Cookies //

Cookies… they’re definitely one of my top 5 favorite treats. I love how simple they are to make, that they come in the perfect size for indulging, and that there is usually an abundance of dough… so you have plenty to share!

During the holidays, I tend to try out some new cookie recipes along with a few tried-and-true faves. At bakeries, I’m always tempted by the traditional wedding cookies. They’re called varying names depending on the culture (Italian Wedding Cookies, Mexican Wedding Cookies, Polvorones, Russian Tea Cakes, and even Snowball Cookies — to name a few), and are baked for celebrations. Typical recipes call for nuts to be added, but in this particular recipe, I opted to substitute mini (semi-sweet) chocolate chips for the nuts to make it more kid-friendly. The outcome was heavenly… the kids couldn’t have been happier! 

Snowball Cookies (Recipe via simplyhappenstance.com) #ChristmasCookies

Growing up, I always looked forward to the Christmas tin of cookies that my Aunt Jean would make for our family. She would include a mixture of sweet treats that she baked up fresh in her kitchen (sugar cookies, fudge, seven layer bars, chocolate chip cookies, and these wedding cookies). It’s a tradition that I LOVE and try to uphold each year. 

These Snowball Cookies with Mini Chocolate Chips have a rich buttery taste and melt-in-your-mouth with each bite. They’re delicate and flavorful… a lovely treat to share with family and friends over the holidays, and perfect to include in those cute holiday tins!

Snowball Cookies (Recipe on simplyhappenstance.com)

These little cookies are great for little hands to help with, too. Preparing the simple dough, adding in the mini chocolate chips, rolling into balls, and covering in powdered sugar are fun tasks in preparing these little bites of joy! 

Snowball Cookies (Recipe via simplyhappenstance.com) #ChristmasCookies #CookieExchange #EdibleGifts

TIPS //

  1. Use only real butter for best cookie results! You won’t be sorry!
  2. Wait for the cookies to cool for a few minutes before rolling in powdered sugar. This will allow them time to cool (so as not to burn your hands) and set properly so that they don’t crumble. 
  3. Before serving, you can give an additional roll in powdered sugar to make them look freshly dipped in snow (wink, wink)!
  4. The dough is stiff enough to work with right away, or if you prefer, you can roll them into balls and freeze in an air-tight container.  The raw cookies can go straight from the freezer to the oven by adding 2 to 3 minutes to the original cooking time. 

Snowball Cookies Made With Mini Chocolate Chips! (Get the Recipe on simplyhappenstance.com)

I hope that you and your families truly love the “mini” addition in this traditional cookie recipe! Making half the dough with mini chocolate chips and half with nuts (chopped pecans would be my choice!) would be a delicious way to share these treats with those you love! Warmest holiday wishes to you all… and Happy Baking!!!

Print Recipe

Snowball Cookies

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time7 mins
Total Time17 mins
Course: Cookies
Cuisine: Dessert
Servings: 4 dozen
Author: Simply Happenstance

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 cup mini chocolate chips I used semi-sweet
  • Additional powdered sugar for rolling

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F. Line cookie sheet with parchment paper.
  • Mix softened butter, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and vanilla with an electric mixer until fluffy.
  • Mix dry ingredients in a separate bowl: flour & salt. Slowly, add the flour mixture to the butter/sugar until the dough comes together. Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
  • TIP // If the dough is too soft or sticky, chill it until you can work it easily with your hands (30 minutes or so).
  • Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop small amounts of dough (approx. 1-2 tablespoons worth) and roll into balls using the palms of your hands. Place balls of dough on prepared cookie sheets.
  • Bake cookies for 7-9 minutes until bottoms are just slightly brown. Remove from oven and cool for a few minutes, until you can handle them.
  • Fill a small bowl with sifted powdered sugar and roll each cookie in the sugar until coated. Place on a rack to cool. (Once cookies are cooled, or just before serving, you can re-roll them in more powdered sugar to look like they're freshly covered in "snow"). Enjoy!

Notes

Original Recipe Inspiration From: Crazy for Crust

 

Snowball Cookies

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Filed Under: Food

Apple Pie Breakfast Bowl

October 21, 2015

Apple Pie Breakfast Bowl Apple Pie Breakfast Bowl //

Hello, friends… we hope you’re all enjoying the fall season! Nicole and I have been staying busy with our little ones. We love having spare time to share our favorite recipes here on Simply! We also are super fortunate to be contributors over at the fabulous, Simple As That Blog! We recently shared an irresistible recipe for an APPLE PIE BREAKFAST BOWL. This dish is a new favorite… and we hope it becomes one of yours, too! 

Apple Pie Breakfast Bowl - a thick vanilla chia seed pudding topped with fall favorites!

The base of this bowl is a rich, creamy vanilla chia seed pudding. Greek yogurt, almond milk, pure maple syrup, a touch of vanilla, and loads of healthy chia seeds create the thick, slightly-sweet mixture. Sliced crisp apples, crunchy granola, dried cranberries, a dash of cinnamon, and a sprinkling of brown sugar top the pudding, making it the tastiest fall breakfast that your whole family will love! Take a peek over at Simple As That to get the recipe details! Enjoy, friends! {xo}

Apple Pie Breakfast Bowl (a recipe by Simply Happenstance for Simple As That Blog)!

Find our berry version of this breakfast dish ==> HERE! 

 

Filed Under: Food

Frozen Hot Chocolate

September 20, 2015

 Frozen Hot Chocolate

Frozen Hot Chocolate //

We are just days away from the official start of fall… although if you’ve cruised by a Starbucks lately, you may think we are already there with their festive cups and pumpkin spice lattes! I crave autumn, especially after spending our year-long ‘vacation from life‘ in the mountains. I, like so many others, find such comfort in throwing on a cozy sweater, a pair of warm boots, cuddling by the fire with my babes, and sipping on a warm seasonal drink! However, with all of that being said, I live in sunny Southern California, which makes it difficult to get into the fall spirit when it’s still 100 degrees outside! (I’m not complaining, friends… as I know that would be crazy! We are truly blessed with lovely year-round weather!) I honestly have to remind myself each year that I will most likely be wearing tank tops, cutoff shorts, and flip flops through Halloween. #RealityCheck! 

Frozen Hot Chocolate - this delicious recipe on simplyhappenstance.com!

Frozen Hot Chocolate

So, to get into the spirit of my favorite season (while still being practical), I decided it was time to finally make the Frozen Hot Chocolate recipe that’s been bookmarked on my computer for so long! 

Frozen Hot Chocolate

As I was savoring every sip of the creamy concoction, I was trying to find the right words to describe the heavenly drink. You might think that it’s as simple as emptying a sleeve of hot cocoa mix in hot water, stirring it up, and then blending with ice. It’s more than that…. so much more, friends! In fact… I wouldn’t say I would typically make this recipe on a whim. It takes a tiny bit more prep work (still easy, I promise!)… but it’s really worth it! The rich chocolatey flavor depends on the brand you choose. Knowing I was sharing this tasty drink with my four children, I chose to use Lindt Milk Chocolate versus a deeper dark chocolate. If I were you… I would put a little thought into what your favorite chocolate bar is, and use that as the base of your recipe! You’ll love how it turns out! 

Frozen Hot Chocolate - the perfect fall treat when the weather is still HOT outside! (simplyhappenstance.com)

So getting back to the simple deliciousness of this drink… it’s rich, chocolatey, sweet (but not too sweet), cold, thick, and frothy! It doesn’t just taste like chocolate milk, or a chocolate shake… it’s FROZEN HOT CHOCOLATE! Perfect for when you are ready for some fall faves… but it’s still hot outside! Enjoy!  

Frozen Hot Chocolate (simplyhappenstance.com) #frozenhotchocolate

Print Recipe

Frozen Hot Chocolate

This Frozen Hot Chocolate is a deliciously festive seasonal drink to enjoy when it's still hot outside! Creamy, rich, chocolatey, cold, and frothy this will quickly become a traditional family favorite! Enjoy!
Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time5 mins
Total Time15 mins
Course: Beverage
Servings: 2 -4
Author: Simply Happenstance (Adapted from Paula Deen - Food Network)

Ingredients

  • 4-5 ounces best-quality chocolate I used one 4.4 oz. Lindt Milk Chocolate bar
  • 2 teaspoons store bought hot chocolate mix
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 3 cups ice
  • Spray Whipped Cream optional, for garnish
  • Chocolate shavings optional, for garnish

Instructions

  • Chop/break the chocolate bar into small pieces and melt in a small heavy saucepan or in the top of a double boiler over simmering water. Stir occasionally until melted.
  • Add the hot chocolate mix and sugar, stirring constantly until combined (consistency will be smooth).
  • Remove from heat and slowly add 1/2 cup of the milk, stirring until well mixed. Cool to room temperature (about 15-30 minutes).
  • In a blender, place the remaining 1 cup of milk, creamy chocolate mixture, and the ice. Blend on high speed until smooth and the consistency of a frozen daiquiri. Immediately pour into one giant goblet (to share), or in 4 small cups. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

Tips // Don't use baking chocolate! Make sure you buy your favorite chocolate bar for this recipe!
Original Recipe // https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/frozen-hot-chocolate-recipe.html

Check out some of our other Fall Favorite recipes here! Happy Fall! 

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Filed Under: Food

Watermelon Salsa

June 30, 2015

Watermelon Salsa - a simple, yet flavorful appetizer for your summer festivities! (recipe on simplyhappenstance.com)Watermelon Salsa //

There’s nothing better than a quick and simple homemade salsa! The flavors are robust and so fresh with a medley of vegetables, cilantro, and…. WATERMELON (the secret ingredient that has made this my new summertime favorite)! 

Watermelon Salsa - a summertime favorite (recipe via simplyhappenstance.com)-23

This Watermelon Salsa is delicious served as an appetizer with some salty tortilla chips … or it can be used as a fresh topping on poultry or fish. (I even love eating it completely plain — straight out of the bowl with a spoon!) You can even add a heaping spoonful into the center of a sliced avocado and eat it for lunch. (YUM!)

Watermelon Salsa - a summertime favorite (recipe via simplyhappenstance.com)-12

The salsa will remind you of your favorite pico de gallo, only better! The sweet bites of watermelon… combined with chopped bell peppers, jalapeño, red onion, and cilantro balance the amazing flavors present in the dish!

Watermelon Salsa - a summertime favorite (recipe via simplyhappenstance.com)-32

Not only is it clean and healthy… it’s pretty to look at, too! Don’t you think? 

Watermelon Salsa - a summertime favorite (recipe via simplyhappenstance.com)-35

This Watermelon Salsa would taste fabulous with roasted corn, black beans, chunks of fresh avocado, or sliced cherry tomatoes thrown in the mix. (I love a recipe that’s easy to customize according to what you have on hand!) It’s the perfect appetizer to bring to an upcoming Fourth of July Party or summertime soiree! Enjoy, friends!
Watermelon Salsa - a summertime favorite (recipe via simplyhappenstance.com)-55

Watermelon Salsa - a deliciously simple appetizer perfect for all of your summer festivities! (Recipe on simplyhappenstance.com)! #FourthofJuly #HomemadeSalsa #Watermelon
Print Recipe

Watermelon Salsa

This tasty Watermelon Salsa is filled with healthy, fresh ingredients! It's a simple Fourth of July appetizer or summer potluck dish!
Prep Time15 mins
Total Time15 mins
Course: Appetizer
Servings: 8 -12
Author: Simply Happenstance adapted from Pioneer Woman

Ingredients

  • 1/2 whole Small Seedless Watermelon Diced
  • 1/2 whole Red Onion Diced
  • 1 whole Red Bell Pepper Seeded and Diced
  • 1 whole Green Bell Pepper Seeded and Diced
  • 1 whole Yellow Bell Pepper Seeded and Diced
  • 2 whole Jalapeños Seeded and Diced
  • 1 whole Bunch Fresh Cilantro Chopped
  • 1-2 whole Limes Juiced
  • 1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt

Instructions

  • Combine all prepared ingredients in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Give it a good stir and chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Keeps for one day, so get those chips ready!
  • *Optional ingredients // sliced avocado, sliced cherry tomatoes, black beans, and/or roasted corn.

Notes

Serve fresh salsa with tortilla chips for an appetizer, or scoop into one half of an avocado and eat for lunch! Also delicious as a topping for poultry and fish.
Original recipe from The Pioneer Woman // https://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2013/06/watermelon-pico-de-gallo/

 

Watermelon Salsa - a summertime favorite (recipe via simplyhappenstance.com)-81

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Filed Under: Food

Protein Packed Energy Bites

April 28, 2015

Protein Packed (No-Bake) Energy BallsProtein Packed Energy Bites //

There are few things I enjoy more than whipping up something delicious for my four little ones. I love knowing the ingredients that go into the foods that nourish their bodies. I also love the sweet smiles on their cute little faces when they bite into homemade treats! 

Protein Packed (No-Bake) Energy Balls

This recipe is a simple one that the kids can even help with. With only a handful of healthful ingredients — this snack can be made in minutes. Their little hands are perfect for rolling the (no-bake) mixture into bite-sized balls. 

Protein Packed Energy Bites (Simply Happenstance) #energyballs #nobake #healthysnacks-19

I must admit, once you take your first bite, you may feel a little guilty! It’s sort of like eating a ball of cookie dough… only this time, you don’t have to sneak it!

Protein Packed Energy Bites (Simply Happenstance) #energyballs #nobake #healthysnacks #kids

Oatmeal, flaxseed, chia seeds, natural peanut butter, unsweetened coconut, raw honey, and chocolate chips make up the ingredients. The kids will have no idea that you are really filling up their bellies with protein-packed energy food!  

Protein Packed Energy Bites (recipe on Simply Happenstance) #energyballs #nobake #healthysnacks

These energy bites are great served as part of breakfast, packed in school lunches, eaten as an afternoon snack, prepared for upcoming road trips, for a fun day hiking, or an outing to the beach. (In fact, these little goodies will be accompanying my little girl on her field trip today!)

Protein Packed Energy Bites (Recipe via Simply Happenstance) #energyballs #nobake #healthysnacks

There are so many ways that you can customize these energy balls to make them your own! Try adding nuts, pretzels pieces, dried fruit, white chocolate, peanut butter chips, and/or endless other ingredients! (Just make sure to add enough nut butter and honey to bind it all together.) Enjoy! 

Protein Packed Energy Bites (Simply Happenstance) #energyballs #nobake 

Print Recipe

Protein Packed Energy Bites

Prep Time10 mins
Total Time10 mins
Course: Healthy Snack
Servings: 20 -25
Author: Simply Happenstance

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dry oatmeal
  • 2/3 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter or other nut butter
  • 1/2 cup ground flax seed
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
  • 1/3 cup raw honey
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

  • Mix all ingredients together in a medium-sized bowl until thoroughly combined. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 1/2 hour.
  • Once chilled, roll into balls (I used a 1" cookie scoop to make mine bite-sized for the kids). If the mixture isn't forming/staying in a ball, simply add a bit more honey to bind it all together.
  • Store in an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to 1 week.
  • Enjoy!

Notes

Recipe adapted from: https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/no-bake-energy-bites/

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Filed Under: Food

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About

bioSara and Nicole are sorority sisters that simply “happened” to end up in the same small town. They have many things in common, which have set the tone of their blog. They hope that you will join them in their journey of motherhood, dreams that may be, the daily life, and their passion for cooking, yoga, fashion, and design!

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