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Roasted Chickpeas Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Lemon Wine Vinaigrette

By Christina Thomas 6 Comments

Roasted Chickpeas Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Lemon Wine Vinaigrette recipe perfect for picnics and lunch on the go. Healthy, easy and plant-based friendly.

California Dreaming, Picnics and Wine Pairings.

As a CK Mondavi & Family Wines Ambassador, I’m happy to share my easy and healthy Roasted Chickpeas Mediterranean Salad with a rich and vibrant grilled lemon white wine vinaigrette. It’s perfect for Spring and Summer picnics (or in Florida – all year round!). All opinions are my own. As always, I only share with you products and experiences I love to inspire you to go #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time.

Jump to Recipe

“Summer Summer Summertime…time to sit back and unwind.”

The Fresh Prince

Here’s An Easy Way To Relax This Summer:

With the Memorial holiday weekend in the books, Summer has un-officially begun. In the famous words of The Fresh Prince, aka Will Smith, it’s time to relax. And, I got the perfect plan to help you do just that.

Roasted Chickpeas Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Lemon Wine Vinaigrette recipe perfect for picnics and lunch on the go. Healthy, easy and plant-based friendly.
I loved this little “picnic for two” backpack CK Mondavi sent us.
I’m sure you can find a similar one on Amazon.
I keep it in my car so that I’m ready for an impromptu picnic on the spot.
  1. Pack an epic picnic. (Check out my 9 tips for an epic picnic.)
  2. Prepare this Roasted Chickpeas Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Lemon White Wine Vinaigrette. It’s healthy, full of flavor and can be easily packed in a mason jar for on the go meals. It’s also easy to modify to suit a plant-based diet (just skip the cheese) or gluten-free (skip the Orzo).
  3. Don’t forget to pack the wine. A crisp, refreshing CK Mondavi Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio goes beautifully with the bright dressing.
  4. Head to the beach, nearest park, or even your backyard. (in bad weather, spread your picnic blanket on the living room floor and pretend you’re in Cali.)
  5. Sit back and unwind!
Roasted Chickpeas Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Lemon Wine Vinaigrette recipe perfect for picnics and lunch on the go. Healthy, easy and plant-based friendly.
Roasted Chickpeas and CK Mondavi White Wines make perfect pairings for a relaxing afternoon!
Pack your salad in a mason jar

Travel Inspiration: Napa, California

All my recipes are inspired by travel and this one is no different. Napa is the U.S. Mecca for wine lovers and although I’ve been a few times, returning is always on my mind. I still have to cross dining at Thomas Keller’s French Laundry Restaurant from my bucket list.

Picnics and wine in Napa sound like the perfect vacation.

Roasted Chickpeas Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Lemon Wine Vinaigrette recipe perfect for picnics and lunch on the go. Healthy, easy and plant-based friendly.
This salad is ready to travel. Just pack it up in a mason jar and go!

This recipe includes crisp, fresh veggies, and a combo of salad greens and pasta. The bright flavors of grilled lemons and Mediterranean influences remind me of California’s cuisine.

My first visit to Napa was truly unforgettable. My sisters, niece, cousins and I had an epic girls trip celebrating my big sister’s 50th birthday. We visited various wineries, had a picnic in the park in front of Thomas Keller’s Bouchon and even attended the Napa Film Festival Opening Night party! It was all about family, food, wine and fun.

Napa Valley Girls Trip
Napa Girls Trip 2008

Angelina Mondavi, the great granddaughter of CK Mondavi founder Cesare Mondavi, shared her favorite Summer memories with her family during a recent webinar. She mentioned playing bocce ball, grilling oysters and sipping wine which reminded me of our special trip to Napa.

It’s one of the reasons I’ve enjoyed being a CK Mondavi & Family Wines Ambassador for the past three years. They’re all about family, food, wine and fun just like us (they are also four sisters!) Angelina is part of the fourth generation who is actively involved in the success of this All American winery.

CK Mondavi Family at home
Mondavi family Summer fun!

Win a Trip To Napa!

If Napa is on your list, then you must click here for a chance to WIN A TRIP TO NAPA VALLEY courtesy of the CK Mondavi Family. You’ll even get to play bocce with them. If you win, please take me as your plus one!

To learn more about wine pairings, check out the “Wine Pairing Made Simple” infographic and visit their website. Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest and Vimeo @CKMondaviWines

CK Mondavi & Family Wines Spring Release 2019
CK Mondavi & Family Spring Releases 2019

“CK Mondavi wines are always approachable, delicious wines that everyone can enjoy. Salute!”

Randy Herron, Winemaker

Can you add wine to vinaigrette dressing?

I’m always looking to do things I’ve never done in the kitchen, from techniques to recipes. I learned from friends that you could add wine (not just wine vinegar) to a dressing and was intrigued. So I did. Because, wine not? (wink)

Surprisingly, it added an extra layer and depth of flavor. I tried both the CK Mondavi Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio which is lighter in acidity. The tropical notes let the intense flavor of the grilled lemon juice shine through. The Sauvignon Blanc, which is crisp and more herbaceous like the veggies worked as well but I had to add a bit more honey to balance it out.

My recommendation: Use whichever wine you want to drink that day.

The wine in your dressing is something your guests wouldn’t be able to put their finger on, but it adds a touch of fun.

Roasted Chickpeas Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Lemon Wine Vinaigrette recipe perfect for picnics and lunch on the go. Healthy, easy and plant-based friendly.

Roasted Chickpeas Salad with Grilled Lemon Wine Vinaigrette

5 from 6 votes
Print
Roasted Chickpeas Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Lemon Wine Vinaigrette

This fun salad features a variety of crunchy veggies, fresh salad greens and Orzo, tossed with bright vinaigrette made with juice of Grilled Lemons and White Wine. Crispy roasted chickpeas make a healthy and flavorful salad topping. Great source of protein, plant-based diet friendly salad for a picnic or lunch on the go.

Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keyword: Greek Salad, Mediterranean Salad, Pasta Salad
Servings: 4
Author: Christina Thomas
Ingredients
  • 1 head of Romaine lettuce rough chopped
  • 8 oz Orzo uncooked (or sub for Israeli Couscous, bowtie or rotini pasta – skip for gluten-free)
  • 1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh herbs (use any combination of fresh Flat leaf parsley, basil or mint.)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 oz baby artichokes
  • 2 cups variety of crunchy crisp veggies Sweet Peppers, Asparagus, English Cucumber
  • 8 grape tomatoes halved
  • 4 oz Feta cheese crumbled (skip for vegan option)
  • Roasted Chickpeas garnish (see recipe below)
  • Grilled Lemon White Wine Vinaigrette (see recipe below)
  • 1 Pinch dried oregano
  • 1 Pinch dried thyme
  • Kosher Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. Prepare roasted chickpeas (see recipe)
  2. Prepare grilled lemon white wine vinaigrette (see recipe)
  3. Prepare orzo (or pasta) following package instructions
  4. Drain orzo, cool in refrigerator, then toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with salt, pepper, pinch of dried oregano and pinch of dried thyme and fresh chopped herbs/.
  5. When ready to serve salad, toss lettuce, orzo, crunchy veggies and tomatoes with dressing.
  6. Garnish with roasted chickpeas and feta cheese.
  7. If assembling in a mason jar, do not toss ingredients with dressing. Instead layer in this order from bottom of the jar to top: dressing, crunchy veggies, artichokes, tomatoes, orzo, lettuce, feta, chickpeas
Roasted Chickpeas Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Lemon Wine Vinaigrette recipe perfect for picnics and lunch on the go. Healthy, easy and plant-based friendly.
This Mediterranean Salad is packed with flavor, healthy crunchy veggies and a delightful grilled lemon wine vinaigrette
5 from 6 votes
Print
Roasted Chickpeas Recipe:
Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
40 mins
Total Time
45 mins
 
Healthy snack or salad topper for a bit of crunch and a lot of flavor.
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keyword: Roasted Chickpeas
Servings: 4
Author: Christina Thomas
Ingredients
  • 1 15.5 oz can chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3/4 teaspoon Paprika or Smoked Paprika (you can use a combination if you have both)
  • 1 Pinch cayenne pepper if you like it spicy
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Kosher Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 375F
  2. Pat the chickpeas with a paper towel to remove some of the moisture. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  3. Bake 30 minutes, check at the halfway point and stir around to make sure they haven’t stuck to the pan.
  4. Remove chickpeas from the oven, transfer to a mixing bowl and add the seasonings. (olive oil, paprika, cayenne, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper). Toss to coat.
  5. Spread the seasoned chickpeas on baking sheet and return to oven for additional 10 minutes or until golden and crispy.
  6. Remove from the oven and let cool if serving in a mason jar. If serving directly, you can enjoy while still warm.
Roasted Chickpeas Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Lemon Wine Vinaigrette recipe perfect for picnics and lunch on the go. Healthy, easy and plant-based friendly.
Easy to make. Perfect for a snack or salad topping!
5 from 6 votes
Print
Grilled Lemon White Wine Vinaigrette Recipe

This dressing takes all the best of a Greek dressing and amps up the flavors by grilling the lemons and adding a touch of white wine in addition to lemon juice and white wine vinegar. It's perfect to toss salad greens, pasta and even as marinade for chicken, shrimp or pork.

Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keyword: Greek Dressing, Lemon Vinaigrette
Servings: 4
Author: Christina Thomas
Ingredients
  • 1 large lemon grilled and juiced (aprox. 2 Tablespoons depending on size)
  • 2 Tablespoons white wine vinegar
  • 1 Tablespoon crisp white wine I used CK Mondavi Pinot Grigio
  • 4 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons creamy Dijon mustard
  • 3 Tablespoons local honey
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Kosher Salt and Fresh Cracked Pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. Heat a grill or grill pan on high heat.
  2. Cut lemons in half, drizzle olive oil on the cut side and place cut side down on hot grill.
  3. Sear for 4 minutes. You should get a nice char but don’t overcook or it will increase the bitterness.
  4. Juice lemons and combine all ingredients in a Mason jar for a vigorous shake.

Recipe Notes

If you’re short on time, you can skip grilling the lemons. You may need to reduce the quantity of honey and adjust ratio of oil to acid to suit your tastes.

Roasted Chickpeas Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Lemon Wine Vinaigrette recipe perfect for picnics and lunch on the go. Healthy, easy and plant-based friendly.
Some of my grilled lemons got more char than the others. I used the ones with the lightest char so as not to impart too bitter flavor to the dressing.
PRO TIP: Don’t place lemons on the hottest part of your grill.
Roasted Chickpeas Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Lemon Wine Vinaigrette recipe perfect for picnics and lunch on the go. Healthy, easy and plant-based friendly.

For other Mediterranean inspired recipes perfect for a Summer picnic, check out my Shrimp Farro Salad and Citrus Fennel Marinated Olives recipes.

My fellow CK Mondavi Ambassadors have also created some fun recipes perfect for picnic like this Spicy Cucumber Salad, Strawberry Rhubarb Salad, Peach Panzanella Salad, Chicken Onion and Fig Tarts and grilled ham and cheese sandwich. Looking for dessert ideas: Strawberry Cream Cheese Bars, Lemon Chardonnay pound cake, and Berry Trifles

I hope you’re inspired to celebrate Summer (or any day) with a fun picnic salad, wine and friends. Go #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time.

If you make this recipe please tag @goepicurista #GOepicRecipe and share on Facebook or Instagram. I would love to see how you make it your own.

Cheers!

Go Epicurista

Disclosure: This post is written in partnership with Warner Brothers Pictures. As always, all opinions are my own. I only share with you products and experiences I love to inspire you to get together with family and friends, celebrate life and go #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip, and trip at a time! To learn more about my guidelines, check out my disclosure policy. Cheers!

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About Christina Thomas

I'm Christina, a hospitality consultant, freelance writer, food & travel enthusiast, brand cheerleader, ice cream fanatic, chocoholic, and eternal optimist on a mission to #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time. Celebrating life with great food, wine and friends throughout Central Florida and everywhere I GO! I want to inspire you to take time out of your busy schedule to do the same. GO celebrate life today, for someday may never come. Join me and GO Epicurista!

Comments

  1. Sandi says

    06/19/2019 at 7:49 pm

    5 stars
    I love this pairing…we are lucky here in the Bay Area to be able to picnic most of the year so I can’t wait to try your recipe.

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      06/21/2019 at 10:26 am

      I love the Bay Area! Definitely great places for picnics there! Thanks for checking out the recipe. Cheers!

      Reply
  2. Molly Kumar says

    06/12/2019 at 3:19 pm

    5 stars
    This looks so delicious and what a perfect salad to take for picnics. I love CK Mondavi and Family wines and hope can visit their winery some day 🙂

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      06/13/2019 at 10:22 am

      Thank you! Wine and salads are my go to for picnics. I hope to visit the CK Mondavi Winery in Napa someday soon! #MakeSomedayHappen

      Reply
  3. Betsy Cohen says

    05/28/2019 at 10:00 pm

    Love this salad, Christina! It is perfect for a summer (or, in our case…year round) picnic. Great wine pairing options, thanks to CK Mondavi!

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      06/07/2019 at 12:30 pm

      Thank you Betsy! We are lucky to enjoy year-round picnic weather and perfect pairings with CK Mondavi wines. Cheers!

      Reply

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Meet your Chief Epicurista

I'm Christina, a hospitality consultant, freelance writer, food & travel enthusiast, brand cheerleader, ice cream fanatic, chocoholic, and eternal optimist on a mission to #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time. Celebrating life with great food, wine and friends throughout Central Florida and everywhere I GO! I want to inspire you to take time out of your busy schedule to do the same. GO celebrate life today, for someday may never come. Join me and GO Epicurista! Find out more...

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💜 Feeling the lavender haze... One of my favori 💜 Feeling the lavender haze... One of my favorite foodie experiences of 2022 was dining at Salt & The Cellar by Michelin Chef Akira Back and spending the night at the new @ettehotel - a gorgeous boutique hotel with impeccable attention to detail! I even got to meet @chefakiraback 
So excited I’m going back tonight to check out their new Lipa Rooftop Bar & Restaurant and have reservations for Afternoon Tea next month! 
Add a visit to ette hotel to your Foodie Bucket List for 2023! 
A few favorites from my last visit:
🍸 Fantastic Zero-Proof Cocktails by @jarldevries: It’s Dry January all year long! Featured first is The Kraken, a gorgeous purple cocktail made with Butterfly Pea Flower Tea & Champagne Vinegar
✨ Toro Tartare: A gorgeous board with fatty tuna and accompaniments
✨ Akira Back Tuna Pizza: his famous dish is a Must Eat! 
✨ Spinach Oshitashi Salad: the most gorgeous salad I’ve ever seen! 
✨ NY Strip with Wasabi Kizami Butter, Chimichurri Sauce, & choice of gourmet salts. Amazing! Loved that Espresso salt
✨ Miso Black Cod, yuzu air, pickled cauliflower 
✨ Togarashi Fries & Kimchi Brussels
✨ Dessert: Yuzu Curd and Chocolate in a Cup
☕️ “Where The Cloud Ends” Zero-Proof espresso martini with Yuzu Tonic, Lemon Cordial, Espresso, 0% Coffee Liquor
💜 The lobby decor with lavender and green touches was dreamy.
🧺 They have a Laundry Museum! 
📕 The Book Room features incredible books. The giant picture book requires gloves to review as it is one of a few in the world! 
The hotel is focused on wellness and offers Wellness Suites completely equipped with a full gym! 
Make plans to dine at @saltandthecellarbyakiraback and stay at @ettehotel and GO #MakeSomedayHappen
(Hosted) #GoEpicOrlando #ettehotel #saltandthecellarbyakiraback #experiencekissimmee #LoveOrlando
Don’t let the casual vibe at @jujubysusuru fool Don’t let the casual vibe at @jujubysusuru fool you. The Kappo Bar Omakase experience with Chef Lewis Lin is out of this world (& Michelin-worthy!)
“irasshaimase / come in!” is what you hear first upon entering this revamped Pizza Hut building off Colonial Drive. Everyone is welcome at Juju, one of Orlando’s newest restaurants and one that belongs on every #OrlandoFoodie bucket list! 
I was invited to experience their Kappo Bar and it checked all the boxes for a truly amazing #MakeSomedayHappen experience.
The retro Japanese izakaya-style restaurant serves up a 10-course menu at the bar and a more casual a la carte menu in the dining room. 
Omakase menu changes regularly but always features the five primary cooking techniques (grilling, steaming, frying, simmering, and raw) using local and imported ingredients, in-house dry-aged fish, and binchotan charcoal-fired dishes. Everything is prepared right in front of you for an immersive experience.
And, Don’t miss the fun cocktails! I loved “That Old Pizza Hut” was like an orange creamsicle with Suntory Toki Whiskey served in a Pizza Hut cup! 
Make reservations and go check this Orlando restaurant off your bucket list.
Thank you Chef Lewis and Mai for your outstanding hospitality. I’ll be coming back soon!
(Hosted) #GoEpicOrlando #LoveOrlando #omakase
Hello 2023! Why start the year on a diet? My new y Hello 2023! Why start the year on a diet? My new year’s resolution is to focus on self-care.  Eating healthy and exercising, sure. But also treating myself to more @gideonsbakehouse cookies, cakes & cold brews. Who’s with me? What will you treat yourself with this year?
You want something. Go Get It. Period!
This was my last purchase of 12/31/22... I wanted to start 2023 on a sweet note!
What if my 2023 resolution is to visit Gideon’s every month for their awesome limited-edition treats? 
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#GoEpicOrlando #2023resolutions #GideonsBakehouse #DisneySprings
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I love Progressive Dining and Disney Springs has plenty of options. We just get a spot at the bar and order a drink and a fun bite. Then move on to the next spot. So easy! No reservations required! 
🦀 1st Stop: @paddlefishorl 
Steak Skewers
Crab Topped Fries 
Larceny Old Fashioned 
Capt Handsome - Cathead Vodka & Raspberry 
Mayan Empress - Santa Teresa Añejo Rum, pineapple
🍰 2nd Stop: @homecominfl 
Espresso Martini 
Carrot Cake 
☘️ 3rd Stop: @raglanroadpub 
Great entertainment! 
@guinnessus 
Great Irish Hooley Cocktail - so refreshing with strawberries & Prosecco 
🍪 Not pictured: we managed a stop at @gideonsbakehouse to pick up treats to start the new year!!! (They had a 2 second brief moment with no line around 11pm! I could not resist! I picked up a Banana Bread Chocolate Chip cookie which is now part of the year-round line up! I also got a slice of Golden Oreo cake and a PB Cold Brew to enjoy today! Starting 2023 off right… and not a diet 😂
We went early, had a great time and got home in time to watch the ball drop!!! 🎉
Wishing you all happiness and lots of delicious treats in 2023! 
#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #DisneySprings
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@fsorlando Capa Steakhouse got a Michelin Star!
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@edoboy Orlando’s first standing sushi bar! 
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Happy New Year! 🥂
Let’s go #MakeSomedayHappen in 2023! 
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The food was exceptional & the service was the epitome of warm hospitality.
Orlando’s first Filipino Casual Fine Dining. 
The creation of Chef Lordfer Lalicon and GM Jamilyn Salonga Bailey (previously of Michelin-Star Kadence) 
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The setting feels like home - family pictures and little touches, including a piano from previous tenants Dandelion Cafe as a nod to the community Kaya celebrates.
I was invited to Friends and Family preview and already have reservations to return. I need that amazing garlic rice again!
4 Wave menu we sampled:
🥄 amuse-bouche | BURONG ISDA
hakurei turnip, lionfish
🥄 first wave | KINILAW
kombujime Key West flounder, radish
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sotanghon mung bean noodles stir fried in mushroom jus, red pepper poached egg
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🥄 ADOBONG KABUTE lion’s mane + oyster mushrooms
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🥄 HUMBA Berkshire pork belly, brown butter seminole squash puree, sweet potato greens
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🥄MANGO ICE CREAM BY SAMPAGUITA & latik URARO COOKIE arrowroot cookie
🥂 Don’t miss the cocktails & wine pairings!
➡️ Add Kaya to your list!  Reservations required
#MakeSomedayHappen
My prediction is Chef Lo will be winning another Michelin Star at Kaya! 
Thank you Lo, Jami & team! You rock! (that dance was perfect! 😜)
#GoEpicOrlando
2022 in Review - Favorite Revamp of a Classic: T 2022 in Review - Favorite Revamp of a Classic: 
The Venetian Chop House Lobster Bisque @cariberoyaleorlando
Longtime fans of The Venetian Chop House, Caribe Royale Orlando’s on-property fine-dining restaurant, can rest assured that the reimagined menu of this classic Orlando restaurant still includes their fantastic Lobster Bisque. 
It’s been on the menu for over 15 years! I loved the creamy, decadent soup served with chunks of lobster meat, topped with a lattice puff pastry dome for a more elevated and stunning presentation at the table.
The menu by Chef David Hackett is a journey through fine Italian Steakhouse cuisine. You can enjoy classic steakhouse specialties (Hungry for a 36 oz Tomahawk?) together with finer dining Italian entrees such as an enormous Chicken Parmigiana, perfectly crusted and crispy and pasta dishes beautifully garnished such as the Carbonara topped with ricotta cream and delicate herb olive oil pearls.
Of course, you must start the evening with craft cocktails at their new Intimate Bar and end with another tableside showstopper, the Ultimate Chocolate Sphere dessert!
>> If you want to read more about the new menu, @tastecooksip and I wrote a guest post for the resort’s website: “The Must Try Guide To The New Venetian Chop House Menu”
Read it here (link in stories): https://www.cariberoyale.com/blog/must-try-guide-to-the-new-venetian-chop-house-menu
>> Looking for New Year’s Eve Plans?  The Venetian Chop House will offer a celebratory 6-course chef-driven prix-fixe menu including an amuse-bouche, choice of soup (that gorgeous Lobster Bisque!) and salad, choice of entrée — wagyu beef tenderloin, porchetta or pesto baked king salmon — plus a few delicious accompaniments, and choice of delicate desserts. $130pp++ / Reservations: 407-238-8060
#MakeSomedayHappen
#GoEpicOrlando #CaribeRoyaleOrlando #2022Review
2022 Review: Best Sunset - Caribbean Cruise / Atla 2022 Review: Best Sunset - Caribbean Cruise / Atlantic Ocean onboard @norwegiancruiseline Prima
🌅 Sunsets at sea are my absolute favorite! How about you?
One of my favorite travel experiences of 2022 was the #NorwegianPrima inaugural sailing with @thetravelbite 
It was a short 3 days but I loved the new ship design, the food and all the amenities. I’m definitely planning another NCL cruise in 2023! 
#MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicCruise #caribbeancruise #EpicSunset #norwegiancruiseline
2022 Review: The Best View in Orlando + The Best G 2022 Review: The Best View in Orlando + The Best Gin Tonic in Orlando = Capa at @fsorlando 
📍 The view from the 17th floor of Four Seasons Orlando Resort, Michelin star Capa Steakhouse is spectacular! You can see the Walt Disney World Resort, epic sunsets & fireworks. 
🍸 For GT fans in Orlando, don’t miss the Capa GinTonic made with Coarunn Gin & Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic. It’s colorful garnishes: Gala Apple, Juniper, Key Lime, & Botanicals take it next level! 
Cheers to 2022 and an even better 2023! 🥂
#MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicOrlando #FSTaste #FiveDiamondOrlando #LoveOrlando #MichelinGuideFL
“Ooooh I like it!” - Merry Xmas! I hope you go “Ooooh I like it!” - Merry Xmas! I hope you got to unwrap delicious treats today, and more importantly that you got to share a special time with loved ones.
I got to enjoy my favorite local-made cookies from @GideonsBakehouse 
In order of appearance:
🍪 The Original Chocolate Chip
🍪 December special: Kris Kringle White Chocolate Coffee Bean - my favorite!
🍪 Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
🍪 December special: Krampus Dark Chocolate Mint
🍰 December special: Krampus Snack Cake - Chocolate Cake with Andes Mint Buttercream
>> Hurry if you want to try the December limited-time flavors! They are all so yummy!
I missed my all-time favorite coffee cake cookie so I may have to go back this week! LOL!
Happy Holidays! 
Gideon’s is located at @disneysprings and @eastendmkt
#MakeSomedayHappen #GoEpicOrlando #GideonsBakehouse #DisneySprings
“Merry Christmas Everybody!”🎄 We spent a b “Merry Christmas Everybody!”🎄
We spent a beautifully chilly and sunny Christmas Eve morning at @disneysprings. So fun & deliciously festive! (Surprisingly not too crowded but we were there early)
Here’s all we did & ate! 
1) Breakfast at @everglazed_fl - 
🍩 Holiday Lights Glazed Donut (to match my Xmas turtleneck!) 
🐓 Funky Chicken BBQ sandwich - my favorite! 
2) Put our name on the Virtual Queue at @gideonsbakehouse (90 min quoted, got text to return at 60 min, waited in actual queue 15 min!) The staff at Gideon’s is 💯 
3) Relaxed & got warm at @Starbucks (while we waited for Gideon’s)
☕️ Caramel Macchiato 
4) Gideon’s Bakehouse: picked up treats for Xmas dinner
🍪 December specials: Kris Kringle White Chocolate Coffee Bean, Krampus Dark Chocolate Mint, Chocolate Chip Banana Bread, Coffee Cake
🍰 Krampus Snack Cakes
☕️ Peanut Butter Cold Brew (the chilly 39F temp didn’t keep me from this favorite!)
🎄 Leisurely stroll around Tree Trail to see all the beautifully decorated themed Xmas trees - loved the Mickey & Minnie tree!
🎁 Window Shopping & Browsed The World Of Disney merchandise shop - lots of last minute Xmas shopping going on! 🤣
After a great morning, I’m home cooking for tonight’s dinner. I hope you’ve made the best of this arctic chilly day. Feely very grateful for the blessings we enjoy. 
Happy Christmas! 🎄 
#MakeSomedayHappen #GoEpicOrlando #GoEpicDisney #DisneySprings
This audio cracked me up! 🤣 But it seriously re This audio cracked me up! 🤣 But it seriously reminded me of all the times I take video over and over (and over) again - Mostly because I’m making weird faces or I don’t like the angle, or I feel like I look fat or… you name it! 🫣 
There are a lot more fails than wins when you scroll my camera roll, and which never make it to the curated IG feed. (In this video, I didn’t like how I was chewing because the cookie was super gooey so it stuck to my teeth!🤣)
We’re so often reminded, nothing is as perfect as it seems on social media, but it bears repeating. You never know what’s going on behind the scenes. Please spread kindness, compassion, and joy with everyone you see - online and IRL 💕
While I will never share something on my feed I don’t wholeheartedly recommend, I must share that I’m not always having ALL the “fun” you see. It’s work to get video and photos and make sure you get everything there is to share. To think of creative posts ideas and offer something unique and different. No complaints, because I do love it, but it’s still work. It’s work to edit photos & videos, find the right audio, research, write the caption and post at the right time. Creating content that provides value is a full time job. Many creators burn out, I’ve been there. We often ask ourselves why we do it.
If you’ve read this far, THANK YOU! I appreciate you. With dwindling views and algorithm changes, IG is not as fun as it once was. I’ve enjoyed nearly 9 years of sharing my favorite bucket list restaurants & events in Orlando and around the world with you. And I hope to continue to bring you a little bit of inspiration to go #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time in the new year! 💕 
Oh BTW, commenting, saving & sharing posts you like is always so appreciated. It’s the encouragement we as creators need to continue to do what we do. 💕
🎄Wishing you a warm, joyful and delicious holiday! 
📍 Check out @learnlakenona Oh, What Fun! Holiday Festival. It is free and fun for everyone! And that Grinch Cookie paired with Hot Chocolate spiked with Bailey’s was indeed a delicious treat!! (See my previous post for details) 
#GoEpicOrlando #HolidaysinOrlando
OH, WHAT FUN! We spent a fun holiday themed evenin OH, WHAT FUN! We spent a fun holiday themed evening in Lake Nona last night! Their Holiday Festival is in full swing and fun for the entire family! 
Oh, What Fun! makes the holidays magical, featuring: 
🎄 Beautiful lights & holiday decorations
🎁 Holiday Market featuring local vendors & artisans for one-of-a-kind gifts
❄️ Nightly Snowfalls
📷 Photo Ops
🎄 Live entertainment including a holiday cirque show & professional carolers 
🎅 Santa’s Cottage (reservations required) 
🎶 Live Music at Boxi Park & Town Center including the Hollywood Holidays Band
🍴 Lots of Dining Options: Great pizza, wings & craft beer at @parkpizzalakenona, to fancy small plates at @chromalakenona a variety of foods at @boxiparklakenona - we had Lobster Fries & Fried Shrimp! 
🍪 Holiday Cookies, Treats & Beverages! I loved the “Grinch” chocolate mint chip cookie paired with Hot Chocolate & Bailey’s 
🌊 @lakenonawavehotel Fa La La Bar featuring holiday cocktails 
Events this weekend: 
🐩 pet parade & costume contest (Saturday), 
🎄Christmas Creatures live animal encounter (Sunday),
🕎 Hannukah Celebration (Sunday Evening)
📍 Lake Nona Town Center
🗓️ Thursday - Sunday
🎟️ Admission is free 
For more information, visit @learnlakenona 
#MakeSomedayHappen 
(Media Invite) #GoEpicOrlando #LearnLakeNona
Favorite Sunday Brunch & Coffee spot in Portland, Favorite Sunday Brunch & Coffee spot in Portland, Oregon: @ProudMaryUSA
We’ve been fans of this Aussie cafe since owners Nolan & Shari opened in 2017. Super nice people! 
🥑 I always order the Avo Toast - one of the best anywhere! But on this last visit I felt like trying their new menu and the green shakshuka did not disappoint. So. Much. Flavor!!! 
☕️ Their coffee program is amazing! We ordered one of their deluxe pour overs and it was a process. From the proper grinding of the beans to the filters and the water used, to giving you a card with the story from the grower. It was fun to watch! 
Here’s what we ordered: 
☕️ Flat White 
☕️ Deluxe Pour Over: INDONESIA
4th Place Cup Of Excellence- IJEN LESTARI
Black cherry, grape, cola, & clove
🍳 green shakshuka: harissa labneh, dukkah, two poached eggs, toast + side of hash browns with their epic house hot sauce! Must Eat! 
🍜 noodle bowl: warm soba noodles, fried tofu, tea egg, avocado, green onion, daikon radish, togarashi
📍 2012 NE Alberta St. Portland, Oregon
Add Proud Mary to your #PDX list! 
#MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicPDX #GoEpicOregon #SundayBrunch
Hey Orlando Foodies, a culinary tour of @waldorfor Hey Orlando Foodies, a culinary tour of @waldorforlando & @signiabonnetcreek Bonnet Creek Resort is a Must Do! 
🍽️ Epicurious Sip & Savor event is this Friday December 9 from 7-11 pm, Indulge in a sumptuous showcase of 35 food & beverage tastings inspired by the renowned chefs of Waldorf Astoria Orlando and Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek.
Visit waldorfastoriaorlando.com/epicurious
If you miss this event, simply plan a foodie weekend and let your taste buds lead the way through the fantastic restaurants of this gorgeous resort, including famed Bull & Bear, La Luce, & Zeta Asia
Say Hi to their epic culinary team! 
👨🏼‍🍳 Bernard Fiemeyer, Complex Executive Chef @chefbernard7 
👨🏼‍🍳 Jeremy Gibboney, Executive Sous Chef, Waldorf Astoria Orlando @chefjeremy814 
👨🏼‍🍳 Dannilo Zapatel Herrera, Executive Sous Chef, Signia by Hilton Orlando @dannilosignia 
👨🏼‍🍳 Franck Riflaud, Complex Executive Pastry Chef @chocolatguimauve 
👨🏼‍🍳 Alberto Navarrete Arias, Chef D’Cuisine, La Luce @alberto.navarretearias 
👨🏼‍🍳 Juan Suarez, Chef D’Cuisine, Bull & Bear @chefjoju_su 
👨🏼‍🍳 Jesus Pinto, Chef Tournant, Zeta Asia
@jesuspinto0707 
🥇 Congrats again to Executive Chef Bernard Fiemeyer on receiving the prestigious title of Maître Cuisinier de France. His passion combined with classical French training and a flair for international cooking sets him apart as Orlando’s only Master Chef of France! 🥂
Go #MakeSomedayHappen 
Hosted #GoEpicOrlando #WaldorfOrlando #SigniaBonnetCreek
🎉My favorite fancy donut shop in PDX - @bluesta 🎉My favorite fancy donut shop in PDX - @bluestardonuts - is celebrating its 10th Anniversary! 🎉 I got the chance to meet rockstar Pastry Chef Stephanie Thornton and totally fangirl over her EPIC “Once-in-a-Decade” Donut!  Guaranteed it will blow your mind! 
✨ 18-hour brioche made with vanilla & strawberry butter! 
✨Filled with strawberry jam
✨Dipped in yuzu-strawberry glaze -  the most incredible glacage!
✨Topped with piped mascarpone-vanilla whip, chocolate cocoa nibs, & gold dust! Oh my!
🥂Perfectly paired with a mini bottle of champagne!
It’s only available THIS WEEK as part of their 10th Anniversary celebration!
👉🏼 Pro-Foodie-Travel-Tip: When visiting Portland, Oregon, DO NOT MISS a stop at Blue Star Donuts. These “Donuts for Grown Ups” are the best in town!
🙏 *I’m begging @chefstephaniethornton for an Orlando location someday!  #MakeSomedayHappen 😉 
🎉 Happy Anniversary and Congrats Blue Star Donuts team. Thanks for letting me crash your party! 
#GoEpicPDX #GoEpicOregon #bestdonutsintheworld #BlueStarDonut
Are You Having Any Fun? We sure did on @norwegianc Are You Having Any Fun? We sure did on @norwegiancruiseline newest ship PRIMA!
Best Thing I Ate on #NorwegianPrima - Dessert Edition: 
🍰 Pastel de Tres Leche with Coconut Cream 
🍩 Churros with Dulce de Leche Caramel 
📍 Los Lobos Mexican Restaurant 
@thetravelbite and I were stuffed after our 2nd dinner of the night (🫣) but we had to get dessert so we ordered the Tres Leches Cake to share. I never say no to dessert!
We said we’d only have one bite…
* We finished the whole thing! 🤦🏻‍♀️🤣
Then… wait for it! 
We saw the Churros Tower at the table next to us and couldn’t resist. We did it for the Gram! I could have drank that Dulce de Leche sauce! 
Los Lobos is one of several specialty dining restaurants you can book onboard, and the biggest surprise. Much more than tacos, it was a more elevated experience. One of our favorite dinners onboard. The bonus we got to sit outdoors and dine with the sounds of the ocean. 🌊 
You gotta have fun! Always order two desserts!
#MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicCruise #TasteNorwegian #CruiseNorwegian
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I wish you a beautifu Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I wish you a beautiful day of sharing great food and wine with family and friends. Grateful for all the little things and most importantly all the wonderful people in my life. 💕
🍁 It’s the unofficial last day of fall! 🍂Enjoy pumpkin everything today…. Tomorrow Christmas Season “officially” begins…🎄
Which camp are you in?
🦃 -🎄”Xmas comes after Thanksgiving” & you’ll set up your Xmas tree this weekend
OR
🎃- 🎄”Xmas after Halloween” & your Xmas tree is already up
I’ve always loved Thanksgiving - a day centered around spending time with loved ones and sharing entirely too much food. So I’m in the “Xmas after Thanksgiving” camp. But if you’re excited for Christmas and want to get 2 months out of all the decorations, I get it if your tree is up already.
Enjoy the season and all the little things that make you happy. Cheers! 🥂
Caffeinated: Morning, Noon & Night - At Sea! ☕️ This coffee lover enjoyed Shaken Espresso in the morning with a great ocean view, Nitro from a Beach Cart and a fantastic sustainable Espresso Martini on @norwegiancruiseline newest ship #NorwegianPrima. The gorgeous ocean views, and sunsets were the most relaxing pairing. 
☕️ Starbucks at Indulge Food Hall was a great spot for breakfast. Full Starbucks menu including our favorite Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso with Oat Milk, you can’t beat the shorter lines than the second location in the atrium & fun swinging chairs on the deck. 
⛱️ Starbucks Cart at NCL private island Stirrup Cay served Nitro Cold Brew all day! 
🥃 Metropolitan Bar’s Café Replay - think an elevated espresso martini - made with Avorza Ultra Premium Organic vodka, Angostura bitters, Frangelico, spent coffee ground cordial, pineapple juice was so inventive. I enjoyed chatting with Clarence, resident mixologist about the full list of sustainable cocktails made from discarded food products.
Are you a coffee fanatic? Which coffee experience would you choose?
☕️ Happy #NationalEspressoDay ☕️
Thank you to my coffee-loving travel buddy @thetravelbite for discovering the short line Starbucks on our first morning! 
Media Hosted #GoEpicCruise #TasteNorwegian #CruiseNorwegian #Espresso #CoffeeLover
Do Not Disturb. Currently dreaming of my next crui Do Not Disturb. Currently dreaming of my next cruise vacation! Do you love cruising?
I had the awesome opportunity to sail #NorwegianPrima on its inaugural sailing from Port of Miami this week and it was fabulous! Thank you @norwegiancruiseline and @thetravelbite 🎉
PRIMA, first in its class, was gorgeous! Loved the modern design, the artwork, the shows, and all the fun spaces to relax and hangout throughout the ship. I was so impressed with the food and beverage program, the new food hall concept, all the options for freestyle dining, and the sustainable cocktails. 
If you’re looking for a wonderful foodie cruise vacation, check out Norwegian Prima. There are some great Black Friday deals happening right now. Book it! 
Nothing better than your first cocktail on deck… the Miami skyline is always gorgeous at sunset. BTW this was one of my favorite cocktails - La Madrina. An Aperol Spritz taken to the next level: Avorza Ultra Premium Organic vodka, Aperol, strawberry and orange oleo, lime juice, fresh lime, ginger beer. Fantastic! 
Go #MakeSomedayHappen 
Hosted #GoEpicCruise #CruiseNorwegian #cruiselife #nclprima
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