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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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The cocktail menu changes frequently but you can’t go wrong with any of them. Let the mixologists recommend a cocktail based on your spirit of choice. 
Here are a few favorites:
🥃 Tourist Season: American Whiskey, Pineapple Rum, Smoked Honey, Vango Tobacco Bitters (A tropical Old Fashioned!)
🍹 Deku Tree: Gin, Aloe, Midori, Lemon, Mint, Angostura, Honey (Refreshing melon gin cocktail!)
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Chocolate + Caramel + Choulala = Fabuleux. Absolum Chocolate + Caramel + Choulala = Fabuleux. Absolument Fabuleux! 💕
Stop by @choulalapastries in Winter Park & celebrate #NationalChocolateCaramelDay 
Isn’t this fabulous?
Here’s what we ordered:
🍫 Twix Bar Caramel: vanilla tart shell filled with caramel sauce & caramel pastry cream topped with chocolate glaze & edible gold flake! So decadent!
🍪 NEW: Caramel Turtle Chocolate Chip Cookie made with brown butter cookie dough with caramel bits, pecans & Hershey’s chocolate chips. @chefstephsteph did it again! It’s scrumptious!  C’est si bon! 
🍮 Crème Brûlée Choux Cream Puff: Their most popular signature pâte à chou dough filled with vanilla bean French pastry cream, topped with burnt caramel chantilly cream & gold sprinkles. Epic!
🍫 Dark Chocolate Macaron filled with rich dark chocolate ganache. Yum!
🥂 Pair your Choulala pastries with a glass of bubbles! They offer Prosecco and Sparkling Rose
⏰ Choulala Park Avenue is now open Tuesday - Sunday 
🍾 Happy Hour Tuesday-Friday offering half-priced bubbles, craft beers and floats from 7pm-9pm.
🥐 Don’t miss Dessert Happy Hour every Sunday from 8p-9p, all pastries are 50% off!
Get your besties and go! #MakeSomedayHappen 
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Highlights of 3 Days in Portland, Oregon! As a P Highlights of 3 Days in Portland, Oregon! 
As a Portland girl living in Orlando, here are some favorite Must Eat, See & Do in PDX
✈️ @alaskaair non-stop @flymco MCO to PDX (7:20am - gorgeous sunrise!)
📷 @pdxairport carpet (IYKYK 😉)
🍩 @pipsoriginal - Best Chai Flight & Mini Donuts. Don’t miss Flavor of The Month! (March-Coconut Custard. Yum!)
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🌱 @dailyfuelpdx - best vegan / plant-based Nachos & Bowls I’ve ever had! 
☕️ @hubers.portland.or - Portland’s oldest restaurant since 1879. Cool history & Best Spanish Coffees! The show is 🔥 
🥑 @proudmaryusa - my favorite avocado toast & coffee! 
🛞 @cartopiafoodcarts - OG Eastside PDX food cart pod since 2008! 
🥔 @potato_champion - best fries & poutine! Get the housemade mushroom gravy and don’t skip the sauces on your fries. Curry ketchup is 😘 
🇬🇷 @tahrirsquarepdx - Eat Like An Egyptian!  OG cart! We got the mezze and grilled salmon. So good!
🚗 Rent car from @drivekyte - super easy, great service, deliver & pick up car to your location! My first time using and loved it! DM for discount code. 
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🌁 Drive around & take in the views! lots to see. Unique architecture, gorgeous mountains & all the bridges into downtown are so cool!
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📕 Visit @powellsbooks largest independent bookstore in the country
📍 Next: road trip to @traveldundee wine tasting in Willamette Valley!
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Sláinte!
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❤️ 🔥 The Signature Donut with the logo disc on top features blood orange glaze, champagne sabayon & S&D meringue.
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I spent one of the best days ever at Discovery Cove! It was my first visit to this one-of-a-kind, all-inclusive, tropical day resort in Orlando, and it won’t be my last! I’m planning a return soon because they have a fantastic special happening now! (See below)
Admission includes: 
🍽️ Unlimited Buffet Breakfast, Lunch & Snacks
🍹 Unlimited Beer & Wine, (add the Premium Drink Package for $40!)
🤿 Swim & snorkel with rays & tropical fish
🐦 Hand-feed exotic birds
🏊‍♀️ Drift along the Wind-Away River
🏖️ Relax on sandy beaches
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🚿 Wetsuits, masks, snorkel, lockers, & showers 
🐬 Swim with dolphins experience (for additional fee)
Stay tuned for more about the delicious new Caribbean menu and cocktails at Hibiscus Hideaway & Blue Bamboo Bar, all-new food and beverage outlets. I was very impressed with their Food & Beverage program. 
Highly recommend this experience for locals and visitors. The entire day felt like a true vacation! 
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Go #MakeSomedayHappen 
(hosted) @DiscoveryCove 
#GoEpicOrlando #DiscoveryCove #LoveOrlando
Orlando’s OG Coffee Shop is Back! Where are you Orlando’s OG Coffee Shop is Back! Where are you getting your caffeine & brunch fix this weekend?
@barniescoffeeandtea flagship cafe in Park Avenue, Winter Park has now re-opened with a brighter modern look, new breakfast, lunch & brunch menu, and new coffee blends. Go check it out! 
I was invited to a preview and loved doing a coffee tasting of 4 blends with Christian, Barnie’s head coffee roaster. My favorite was the Guatemala Gehsa with citrus, cocoa nibs and orange blossom notes. We also sampled new menu items. Don’t miss the Shakshuka & the Popovers!
Here’s what we sampled:
☕️ Coffee:
✨Barnie’s Cafe Blend
✨Guatemala Gehsa
✨Birthday Cake Batter (notes of vanilla sprinkles)
✨UCF Pegasus Blend (notes of chocolate & caramel!) yum! 
> I couldn’t resist getting a latte even though it was 6pm! 🤣 Barista Renata did a fab vanilla latte! 
🍳 Breakfast:
✨ Signature Popovers
✨French Toast with fresh truit
✨Shakshuka with poached egg
✨Seasonal Quiche
🥪 Lunch:
✨Cuban Sandwich
✨Roasted BeetSalad
Did you know Barnie’s is Orlando’s original coffee shop? It opened right here in Winter Park in 1980!
Go support local! #MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicOrlando #LoveOrlando #barniescoffeeandtea #orlandocoffee
Hey Orlando Foodies, @orlandocitysc and @orlpride Hey Orlando Foodies, @orlandocitysc and @orlpride games at @exploriastadium just got a whole lot tastier!
Five #OrlandoMade local restaurants are now permanent concessions vendors so you can tame your hunger with the best local tacos, hot dogs, BBQ, Chicken & Burgers in Orlando! 
Thank you Exploria Stadium for inviting me to the media preview. Can’t wait to go cheer on our 2022 US Open Champions at the season opener this Saturday!
Here’s a preview of what we sampled: 
🌮 BLACK ROOSTER TAQUERIA - Chicken Tinga Taco on Flour Tortilla, w. lettuce, radish, cotija cheese, cilantro. Love those tacos! It was nice to see owner Juliana Calloway and Chief Tasting Officer Ryder Calloway dancing! 🕺🏻 @blkroostertaco 🙌🏼
📍 The Wall / Section 24
🌭 HARRELL’S HOT DOGS - Orlando City Stadium Dog features a Nathan’s Hot Dog topped with House Red Onion Sauce, Sauerkraut & Sport Peppers and finished with a Spicy Brown Mustard. Nice to meet owners Drew & David Cardaci! @_whats.up.dog_ 🙌🏼
📍 Section 30
🍖 4 RIVERS SMOKEHOUSE - Orlando’s favorite Pulled Pork Sandwich! Didn’t get to see owner John Rivers did you know you can now pick up 4R sauces & spices at Publix?! @4riverssmokehouse 🙌🏼
📍 Section 31
🐓 THE COOP by 4Rivers - Hand-breaded Chicken Tenders with 4R BBQ sauce @thecoop_wp 🙌🏼
📍 Section 9
🍔 TEAK NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL - Drunken Monk Burger with Smoked Bacon, Provolone Cheese, Roasted Cherry Tomotoes, house-made Angry Orchard Onion Jam, on Herb Mayo & Melted White Cheddor on a Pretzel Bun with Teak Chips. Best Burger in Orlando!  It was so nice to meet owner Jon Proechel after all these years of being a fan of their epic burgers! @teakneighborhoodgrill 🙌🏼
📍 Section 18
🍹MANE-GO MARGARITA - In The Wild Margarita with @camarenatequila - super tasty! 
⭐️ FYI - A Rotating Vendor Cart will feature @cholodogs & @sushieatstation among others 
⚽️ Will you be at the season opener this Saturday? 
#VamosOrlando Let’s Go! #ManEveryWall 💜 
Hosted #GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #ThingsToDoinOrlando
Happy #NationalMargaritaDay 🎉 This is “NOT E Happy #NationalMargaritaDay 🎉
This is “NOT EVERYONE’S MARGARITA” -  But it is mine! Made with Vida Mezcal, Cuervo Traditional Plata Tequila, Jalapeño, Creme de Mure, House Sour, & Black Salt. Epic! 
📍 Go get yours at @paddlefishorl in @disneysprings
Cheers! 
#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #DisneySprings
Hey Wine Lovers, I almost missed it’s #NationalD Hey Wine Lovers, I almost missed it’s #NationalDrinkWineDay 🥂
Here’s my 3 Favorite Wine Bars in Orlando: 
🍷 @quantumleapwinery - Orlando’s only sustainable winery & cidery, located in Mills 50 District. Try Kaley’s Rescue Red Blend & don’t miss the @thetastytrio “Wine, Cheese & Chocolate”events. 
🍷 @viniawinekitchen - fantastic boutique wines & Italian / Brazilian shareable plates in a charming intimate setting, located in Winter Park. Be sure to ask owner Fabio for his recommendations! 
🍷 @winebargeorge - Orlando’s only Master Sommelier owned restaurant with over 160 wines by the glass, bottle & ounce, located in Disney Springs. Say hi to somm genius George Miliotes and don’t miss their fab boards & wines from around the globe! 
Go #MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicOrlando #OrlandoWine #loveOrlando
Don’t miss “Eat Ice Cream For Breakfast Day” Don’t miss “Eat Ice Cream For Breakfast Day” on Saturday 2/18! 
@kellyshomemadeicecream has created special breakfast-themed ice cream flavors for this annual International Childhood Cancer Awareness event
Order a cup, cone or shake or better yet, get an Ice Cream Flight & try all four! 
🥞 Blueberry Pancake (My favorite!)
🥣 Breakfast Buddies
🥓 Maple Bourbon Bacon
💥 Cinnamon Crunch
🗓️ When: Saturday February 18th, 9am-11am
📍 Where: All Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream Scoop Shops and participating Counters 
💰 50% of sales during breakfast will be donated to @gktwvillage 
🍦 “Eat Ice Cream For Breakfast Day” was created in 2013 in honor of Malia Grace, by her mom and aunt after she lost her battle with cancer in 2010. Malia Grace loved ice cream and her family wanted to commemorate her birthday, 2/18, in a way that would be fitting for her. During her wish trip at Give Kids The World, she had the opportunity to eat ice cream for breakfast and it was a highlight of the family’s experience. 
🌎 Give Kids The World Village is an 89-acre, whimsical nonprofit in Central Florida that provides critically ill children and their families with magical week-long wish vacations at no cost. Every wish family is treated to accommodations, transportation, donated theme park tickets, all meals and snacks, nightly entertainment, and more. Since 1986, Give Kids The World has welcomed more than 182,000 families from all 50 states and 76 countries.
Stop by Kelly’s and pick up these awesome flavors! But, regardless of where you are, Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast in honor of Malia, and raise awareness for those who battle childhood cancer. 💛
#GoEpicOrlando #eaticecreamforbreakfastday #kellyshomemadeicecream #kellysicecream #orlandoicecream
Happy Valentine’s Day! ♥️ Add a little fire Happy Valentine’s Day! ♥️ Add a little fire & passion to your life, head to @gideonsbakehouse for their Eternal Flame Cookie & Cake. They are 🔥in the best way!
🍰 Eternal Flame Cake is a 3-Layer Double Frosted Chocolate work of art! Red Cherry Buttercream layers and Chocolate Fudge Buttercream mixed with a bit of that Eternal Flame spice on the outer layer. Not too spicy and absolutely decadent! Pair it with a nice bold red wine!
🍪 Eternal Flame Chocolate Cookie packs a nice kick laced with house-made Ancho, Cayenne, and Cinnamon Spice Mix, infused with a magical essence of cherry and topped with Chocolate Covered Cherries. 
❤️ For a limited time, a special version of the Eternal Flame cookie without the spice mix is available too! (Check Gideon’s IG for details)
📍 Available only in February at Gideon’s in East End Market & Disney Springs
Go celebrate with the best cookies and cakes on the planet!
#MakeSomedayHappen #GoEpicOrlando #GideonsBakehouse #DisneySprings #ValentinesDayTreat
For The Love of Chocolate… stop by @peterbrookew For The Love of Chocolate… stop by @peterbrookewp and pick up the best treats for your sweetie and besties 💕
A few of my favorites: 
🍓 Chocolate Covered Strawberries (require advanced order)
❤️ “Jami Choo’s” Chocolate Shoes
💋 Assorted Truffles (loved the red lips!)
♥️ Chocolate Covered Popcorn! 
💖 Baskets with a variety of treats! (Don’t miss the Chocolate Covered Oreos, Cat Tails & Cookies)
☎️ Call the shop to reserve a basket for quick pick up at (407) 644-3200. They’re open regular hours today & 7AM -11:15PM on Valentine’s Day!
🍓 Thank you to Peterbrooke’s creative Cupid chocolatiers for these gorgeous berries! 
#GoEpicOrlando #PeterbrookeWP #winterparkfl
Bon jour! Bon soir, enchante! 💕 The perfect way Bon jour! Bon soir, enchante! 💕 The perfect way to celebrate Galentine’s Day & Valentine’s Day is with the best French pastries in Orlando! 
Thank you @chefstephsteph for these epic @choulalapastries 💕
Pre-order and pick up at either Choulala Park Avenue and 436 location! You’re going to want to get all of this! 
VALENTINE’S DAY DESSERT BOX!
Chef Steph created an epic gourmet assortment of Valentine’s Day delights perfect to share:
💋 (1) Lychee Rose French Kiss Entremet
♥️ (2) Conversation Heart Vanilla Macarons
💝 (2) Crème Brûlée Choux Cream Puffs!
“I LOVE CHOU” BOX includes:
❤️ Passion Fruit, Raspberry & Crème Brûlée Choux Cream Puffs
♥️ Red Velvet, Lavender & Conversation Heart Macaron
❤️ Strawberry Eclair
I also picked up these gorgeous heart shaped entremets:
💜 Exotique: Passion Fruit & Coconut 
💖 Sweeties: Strawberry & Chocolate Brownie
Go enjoy the sweetest Galentine’s & Valentine’s Day #MakeSomedayHappen 
📍Choulala Park Avenue is open regular hours Saturday & Sunday, closed Mon, but will open special hours on V-Day Tuesday 11a-8p.
📍Choulala 436 open regular hours including 10-5pm V- Day
(Hosted) #GoEpicOrlando #BlissfulBite #ChoulalaPastries #Galentines #ValentinesTreats
It’s #NationalPizzaDay but all I’m thinking ab It’s #NationalPizzaDay but all I’m thinking about is Hot Garlic Knots from @official_pizza_bruno 
Have you tried these?  They are a #MustEat in Orlando!
Look for the lit “Hot Knots Now!” sign! 🔥 And, when you think there isn’t enough garlic... there’s more! 🧄 🍕 
Go get some!
#GoEpicOrlando #OrlandoFoodie #MakeSomedayHappen
💜 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? 
I think that’s a resolution I can keep!  January’s Butterscotch flavors sound to die for.
Did you hear? The epic Banana Bread Chocolate Chip cookie is now part of the permanent lineup. While the Coffee Cake is my all-time favorite, this one is in the top 3! And, the original Peanut Butter Cold Brew is a must pairing.
What resolution will you set today? Go #MakeSomedayHappen 🎉 Happy New Year everyone!
#GoEpicOrlando #2023resolutions #GideonsBakehouse #DisneySprings
Happy New Year 2023! 🎉 We had a fun and very ch Happy New Year 2023! 🎉 We had a fun and very chill night at @disneysprings. How about you?
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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