Hello!
Thanks for sharing your book recommendations this morning as well as your goals of the week.
Hope your week started off great! My day has been intense, but I ploughed through over 11 orders so I feel really good about that! The only downer to the day was that we found out our treadmill needs the engine replaced. The treadmill repairman has already replaced the two rollers (1st outing), the belt (2nd outing), and now it is still ticking so he wants to replace the entire engine! Luckily the parts are covered with Landice treadmills (for life), but the labour is not (only up to 1 year)…and boy is the labour bill racking up! I swear I should have gone to school to be a repair woman. Or an electrician…we were once charged $200 for an electrician to spend 5 mins. putting in a circuit breaker…
The theme of this week is all about the checklist. If I can complete my checklist this week, I will be one happy camper! I love having something physical on paper to look at. I haven’t done a checklist in a while so it feels good to have one in front of me.
The theme of dinner tonight was to ‘cross off’ a bunch of veggies lurking deep in our crisper…
We now begin the countdown until the next CSA box. We have just 2 days left until our next one!
We had a huge bunch of asparagus to use up.
My absolute favourite way to eat asparagus is roasted with sea salt, oil, and black pepper. Classic simplicity.
Easy Roasted Asparagus:
- 1 bunch of asparagus, rinsed and broken at ends
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Sprinkle or two of Sea salt
- 1 tbsp sunflower oil or oil of your choice
Directions: Rinse asparagus and break off the ends (they will naturally snap at the weak part). Place asparagus onto a baking sheet and drizzle oil over top. Move asparagus all around baking sheet until coated with oil. Sprinkle on sea salt and ground pepper. Roast in the oven at 400F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping once half way through.
I also used up a bunch of red potatoes, green onions, and zucchini in another pan roast!
Maple Infused Red potato, Zucchini, and Green Onion Roast
Ingredients:
- 4-5 small red potatoes
- 2 zucchini
- 5 green onion stalks
- Sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp sunflower oil or oil of choice
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
Directions: Preheat oven to 400F. Chop veggies and place on a baking sheet. Drizzle oil and maple syrup over top and massage the oil/syrup into the veggies making sure they are all coated. Sprinkle on sea salt and black pepper. Place in oven at 400F for around 1 hour, flipping once half way through. Potatoes should be crisp when ready and green onions will have a crunchy consistency like kale chips!
I put the red potatoes, zucchini, and onion mixture into the oven first (for 45 mins), then during the last 15 minutes of cooking I popped in the asparagus. Timing worked out perfectly!
However I was ROASTING myself while the oven was blasting for an hour! The kitchen got so hot I felt like I was having hot flashes.
This was my first time having maple syrup on roasted veggies and it was killer!!! The hint of sweetness tasted amazing. Try it out you will love it!
With a side of tomato paste, although I didn’t use much of it because I loved the maple flavour of the veggie roast!
The green onions got so crispy and reminded me so much of kale chips!
I love the crispy tops when asparagus are roasted…
I don’t know if I have ever had roasted zucchini before but it tasted incredible. I think the key here was slicing the zucchini very THICK. It shrinks in the oven, so if you leave it on the thick side it will remain a good size and very juicy! I wished I had more of it when I was finished!
Dessert, a Dark Chocolate Coffee Mararoon…
Eric and I are going to go on a relaxing walk around the neighbourhood (we try to get out every night for about 20 minutes in the summer). We love our summer walks! They are so peaceful and it gives us a chance to unwind from the busy day. Our summers don’t last long so we need to make use of every minute we can!
Tonight, I also need to book flights and hotel for the Healthy Living Summit conference in Chicago. I am excited because I have heard that Chicago is an amazing, historic, and beautiful city and I can’t wait to explore it. Eric is going to join me as well (but he won’t be attending the conference). Anyone here from Chicago or been there before? What are the great sights to check out? Nice places to run? Restaurants? Anyone else attending the HLS?
Have a lovely evening and I will see you in the morning!
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{ 94 comments… read them below or add one }
I love summer walks too! My husband gets home pretty late but we always try to walk when we can. There is nothing like incredible summer smells and watching kids playing outside. ;)
I love just straight veggies for dinner once in awhile, especially when they’re so excellently prepared! Love the maple syrup idea, it sounds absolutely mouthwatering!
Love roasted zuchinni…do you know you can STUFF your zuchinni and cook it on the grill. Oh yes, yes you can! =)
I lived near Chicago for nearly 22 years of my life and it’s one of my favorite cities. For the best possible view, go to the Signature Lounge in the Hancock Bldg on Michigan Ave. It’s on the 97th floor and has 360 degree views. Champagne and strawberries will make the view even better ;)
Wow it sounds incredible thanks!
I also recommend the Signature Lounge!!
What a wonderful meal :) I love asparagus. Actually, it was the chosen ingredient from my Mystery Box last week and I made an asparagus risotto! My only complaint was that there were no leftovers!
Gorgeous photos!!
The Chicago Diner is a vegan/vegetarian diner in Chicago…amazingly good! We had to wait some time for a table, but it was completely worth it. I would highly reccomend!!!
thanks!
Random roasted veggie tray is my go to meal for organic co-op leftovers. Thanks for the maple syrup idea, sounds delicious!
I *SO* wish I was going to HLS… I have an important wedding that weekend. hopefully next year…
I LOVE roasted asparagus, probably my favorite! I roast veggies all the time, and love it… I totally forgot about maple syrup (right now I have none)… that is delicious, I had it at a restaurant and did it once after that.
We LOVE to walk in the evening… (Basil Pup loves it too!) we have a great trail along our property, where we meet other dogs and friendly people, and our far off neighbors :)
I work and live in the Chicago-land area. If you want fresh fish and an awesome staff the place to go is Shaw’s Crab House’s Blue Crab Lounge (to the right when you walk in) on Hubbard and Wabash. We go there all the time and the staff is truly amazing.
Get a run in along the Lake – I always suggest running South because it stays a little further away from the Drive. For normal touristy things go to the signature room on the 95th for drinks and enjoy the view (top of the Hancock tower at North Michigan Avenue), check out Navy Pier, visit the Parks, especially Grant Millennium (South Michigan Ave.), if you want to check out some raw food go to the French Market located in the train station (Canal and Randolph). Stroll down Michigan Avenue and shop at the huge Macy’s on State Street.
Just a few ideas!
Since you’re sometimes in a bind trying to eat up all your CSA veggies, have you ever thought about freezing some? I once did a Google search about the proper way to freeze different types of vegetables (how long to blanch, type of container to freeze it in, etc.) and it was pretty helpful. Obviously some of the produce wouldn’t freeze well, but I’m sure it could prolong the life of some veggies so you can enjoy them in the fall or winter!
I’ve thought about it…I think I would be more likely to make a huge batch of something and then freeze it for quick meals. Just need to find the time!
The weather here had been so cool, I planned a dinner that involved the oven and now its 80* outside! I can’t win ;P
I’m sure you knew this already, but check out Porter for your flight!! They’re having a seat sale that’s over today, and when I booked mine they were around $100 each, each way.
Thanks were going to fly out of Buffalo :) its about $200 cheaper
I absolutely love roasted asparagus – it reminds me of spring & summer!
Those roasted veggies sound awesome!
I’m going to the HLS too! I can’t wait :)
Your asparagus is gorgeous!
Where to start….. I LOVE Chicago and I find it to be an excellent ‘healthy living city’, if you know where to look, that is!
Karyn’s on Green, Karyn’s Raw, Karyn’s Cooked, and the Chicago Diner are all great vegan restaurants. And of course, you have Trader Joe’s and numerous Whole Foods locations!
I live just off Michigan Ave AND
I am a Chicago suburb dweller, and I love going to the city as much as possible! I would say that going to see a live show at The Vic or The Riveria is quite the experience, but hard to plan if no bands or musicians you know will be playing during your stay :/
As for food, you MUST MUST eat at The Chicago Diner (seriously…must!) They have the best vegan food I have ever had, and always have splurges as well as raw and healthful items. Another great restaurant is Karyn’s Raw or Karyn’s Cooked – both delicious.
Of course, you must see Millennium Park, The Bean (touristy to the max, but mentionable), and shop :o)
My husband and I like to go on walks around the neighborhood as well. I’ve been to Chicago and it’s definitely an awesome place to visit. I would go in the John Hancock building (a little shorter than the Sears Tower) but has a more amazing view and an awesome restaurant up stairs. Running in the city is apparently really fun… that’s what our friend said when we visited!
…..ooops didn’t mean to send that previous comment so soon…
Meant to say that I love running up Michigan Ave to people watch the tourists and to enjoy the river, beautiful flowers and architecture. And you definitely have to run along the lakefront!
Sorry if this has been answered a lot before. I havent been reading for long. Is your Glo Bakery the same thing as your home kitchen or is it somewhere different?
Thanks!
I ADORE asparagus :)
I’d never would have thought to use maple syrup to marinade veggies in maple syrup…such a clever idea.
Have a wonderful evening stroll with the hubbie!!
I love your blog – thank you for all your wonderful posts! When you’re in Chicago, you should definitely try and eat at Karyn’s on Green (a wonderful vegan place!). Don’t leave w/out trying the steak fries! Some other great vegan places: Karyn’s Cooked and Chicago Diner. For some yummy vegan cupcakes try Molly’s and Swirlz. Running on the lake early in the morning is so wonderful! For a great view, grab a drink at the top of the Hancock. For an eco friendly hotel, check out Felix. Enjoy your trip!
I love love love roasted potatoes! those look amazing :)
I was vacationing in Chicago last month and totally fell in love with an Italian restaurant called Quartino. There’s also a nice sandwich place near there called Eleaven. If you’re an area called Wicker Park at all you can check out a nice little place called Ear Wax (awful name but great vegetarian breakfasts).
The Chicago Cultural Centre right downtown has two absolutely astoundingly beautiful stained glass domes (and it’s totally free to see them!) And as tourist-y as it is Millennium park is pretty fun.
Also highly recommend one of the Chicago Architecture Foundation river cruises if you have the time. It’s especially cool if you’re into the history of Chicago.
Have fun!
Try Sepia in Chicago – I adore it there! They were filming a move there last week but should be open again now. It is in the West Loop and really amazing. Similarly Avec or Blackbird are also amazing. Or if you want Mexican hit up Topolobampo or Frontera (Rick Bayless restuarants). If you are looking for recommendations online – try to get into the neighborhoods and out of the Loop. Wicker Park and Bucktown have AMAZING food. So does the West Loop (and Greek Town is close to the West Loop for amazing Greek food). For brunch on Saturday or Sunday you need to be up EARLY to avoid lines but try Feast in Wicker Park, Orange in Lincoln Park (my FAVORITE with frushi – fruit sushi) or Ann Sathers.
I live north of Chicago. I second the Chicago Diner for you…check out their website.
Also not mentioned yet is the top of the Willis Tower (formerly known as Sears Tower). They have these glass ledges that were recently built out from the building..totally cool. The French Market is also a good place to pick up fresh fruit. One of the vendors is also RAW a raw food restaurant. There are many farmer’s markets during the summer…Thursday morning is at Daley Plaza.
I would stop at a Walgreen’s drug store. They sell the CTA unlimited 1 day or 3 day pass there. That way you can explore a lot and save some money without having to walk everywhere. Don’t worry, you’ll get plenty of exercise, but it’s nice to hop on the “El” train for a break and cheaper than taking a cab. If you will be here on a Thursday night, the Art Institute is free from 5-8 p.m. Many people have commented that their favorite tour in Chicago is the architecture boat tours on the Chicago River. They also have a website. (Chicago Architecture Foundation)
Hottix sells available last minute tickets to almost every theatre in the city…you might be able to catch a late night show or matinee cheap. (hottix.org)
People in Chicago are friendly, so don’t be afraid to ask for help finding stuff.
Why hello there. It’s not very nice of you to taunt me with that delicious veggie dinner and not invite a girl over to help eat it! ;) Wish we could have dinner dates weekly!!! I love roasted zucch!!
im going to HLS!!
i cant wait to meet you! any chance you’ll be selling your bakery products? ;)
Looking forward to meeting you as well :)
I wont be selling the bars BUT I will be donating bars in the swag bags!
I’m going to HLS, too! Can’t wait to meet you!
Yes…I agree about getting out of the Loop for food. The neighborhoods are great, and you can get their with your CTA pass! Also, you would think that restaurants in the Loop would be open on weekends, but MANY are not! It’s more of a Monday-Friday food place. So, double check hours before you head out somewhere.
I cant even begin to describe how perfect your pictures are today. im inspired to continue saving money so I can get my Nikon DSLR. oh boy
The maple roasted veggies sounds delicious.
Thnaks! :)
Chicago is so much fun! The architecture boat tour on the river would be my top recommendation for something fun to do. Walking/running/biking along Lake Michigan is also a must and there are beaches on the lake so you could do a little swimming too. You can take bike tours of the city too which is a fun and different way to see the sights and explore.
Can’t help you out in the food department though – when I go to Chicago I’m all about the Chicago-style pizza and the hotdogs (not so healthy and definitely not vegan!).
I love roasted asparagus. It’s also really good with a squeeze of lemon.
You MUST go to Karyn’s on Green. I saw that a bunch of people already recommended it…and with good reason!!! It’s phenomenal.
Another must go to is this adorable place called Orange. It’s a contemporary, funky little restaurant that serves brunch. Their specialty is frushi, which is fruit sushi!! It’s wonderful!
For a little sweet treat, stop by Molly’s Cupcakes on the north side. So delicious with vegan options as well!
Have fun in my gorgeous city…you’ll fall in love with it:)
I love roasted veggies. You are making me very hungry today. I thought I should tell you I was inspired by your cute pictures of cherry soft serve with your oats and posted about it today on my blog. Stole the cherry-on-top idea from you for sure. :-)
Oh maple syrup roasted veggies sounds great! Man, I can’t believe you get more CSA food in two days. I don’t think I could keep up. That’s a lot of food for two people!
lol I know and its only a half share…and I probably eat enough for 2 ppl as it is! haha
I looove roasted veggies – esp asparagus…it’s a totally different flavor!
Love, love asparagus. Especially roasted.
Great post tonight! I LOVE LOVE LOVE that dinner you made…. i frequently make things like that all summer long- roasted zucchini is one of my FAVOURITES!
Great job on making the TO DO list…. I LOVE LIST MAKING and I have made a GIGANTIC one this week- as i leave July 19 for a trip and have a lot to do- here’s hoping i get it all done :)
Mmm I just bought some asparagus today and I’m totally going to try it roasted up like this!
Roasted asparagus is one of the most delectable things ever.
I lived in Chicago for awhile, and the most awesome place to run is by Lake Michigan. Cross Michigan Ave and just start running! Run across the bridges or streets and park to the other main road and cross. You can go left or right, any way it is BEAUTIFUL!
I find that just walking around Chicago is beautiful. A lot of the buildings are beautiful. I lived in the South Loop, and State Street was the place to go to do some shopping, but of course the Magnificent Mile (which is more north of Michigan Ave) is where the real shopping is. If you go up by the Navy Pier, there are a ton of pretty buildings, including the Drake hotel. I love walking by there. My great aunt worked there in the 50’s! And there are some small beaches out that way, also fun to run or rollerblade by, and beautiful to just stroll and take pictures. Have fun and tell Chicago hi for me! I’m moving to Nashville, but that city will always be home.
Mmm, that asparagus looks delicious!
My husband go on a walk after dinner almost every night. I think it helps us digest our food, but it’s also just so pleasant! It’s our time to enjoy each others company.
I do my asparagus exactly like you do! It comes out SO flavourful! Haha, I was cracking up because tonight i cleaned out our crisper too! So many coincidences! We’re having zucchini, baby sunburst squash and japanese eggplant roasted with balsamic vinaigrette and italian herbs. YUM! Last night was zucchini and asparagus on the grill! Yay for summer veggies!
Sounds DELICIOUS!
That sounds delicious!! I would never have thought to use maple on regular potatoes!
Everything looks delicious!
Thanks everyone for your suggestions!!! So excited :)
I loooove roasted veggies – those look awesome! I am a total “to do” list person. I feel like I have accomplished something if I get to cross it off. I also put things on mylists that have already been done just so I can cross them off – DON’T judge.
I live in Chicago (well, just outside) – it is an absolutely amazing city. I am really sad though because I wanted to sign up for the Healthy Living Summit but was too late. I kind of still want to come to the city though on Sunday for the fun run or something. I kind of feel like the outcast kid who just wants to fit in – hahaha! :)
I’m so excited to read all the suggestions for Chicago! I’ve been once several years ago, but I don’t really remember much. I can’t wait for HLS, though!
The asparagus looks amazing…I’m getting a major craving:)
Wow great idea with the maple syrup for your veggies. I can’t wait to try that out on my grill once it warms up here.
I like my asparagus simple too, but instead of sea salt and pepper, once oiled I sprinkle Montreal steak spice on my asparagus before grilling. I love the simple taste of it (plus the spices are all in one container! Super convenient)
I usually roast zucchini with green peppers … it’s amazing , but recently tried it with Garlic Gold nuggets(Italian Herb) I that KERF uses and this is amazing …. . Personally I love the Hancock Tower , visit the aquarium , take a evening cruise ( the one where they talk about Chicago’s architecture if you are into that) . Defintely do a run along navy pier leading to planetarium , you will pass the museums , it is beautiful one !! I hope Eric and you have a wonderful time !!
I love roasted asparagus! It’s my favorite way to prepare it! Okay, that’s a lie. My favorite way is grilling, but next is roasted!
I roasted sweet potatoes with maple syrup once. Very tasty!
Hi Angela,
I’m from Chi-town (that’s the cool way to say it :)) and there’s lots to see! I would say, do the regular sites and the do the sites that the locals hit. If you want to go to a beach I recommend Pratt Beach up in Rogers Park, it’s gorgeous and a little more laid back then the business of the downtown beaches. A good place to run is through Old Town, cause you can see all the old historical buildings, on down the lake front, which runs from Evanston to downtown (that is also a very awesome bike route). If you’re a fan of archetecture come to Oak Park and see Frank Lloyd WRight’s classic buildings and the Hemingway House. Also, I love the Marion Street Cheese Market in Oak Park, on Marion and South Blvd (all local food, all fresh, vegan friendly).
You’ve got to check out Karen’s Cooked: an all vegan restaurant that is affordable and delicious. Coffee shop wise I love Brothers K in Evanston and downtown, Intelligencia in the Monogonuk Building (that is not spelled correctly, heads-up). Also, there’s the great farmer’s markets. Thursdays is the Daley Market at the Daley Center on Clark and on Randolph and Wabash is the Downtown Farmstand (a small, all-be-it adorable only local produce joint).
There’s just so much to see. I love Wicker Park for shopping. Endless boutitues. Lincoln Square has a great coffee shop called The Grind and a famous vintage shop and Logan Square’s got the city’s only Co-op, voted in The Reader the best co-op (and only co-op, although there are a lot of farmer’s markets) in the city. And since I will live in Logan Sq, I’m partial to it myself.
I just hope you love it and, hey, if you want someone to do lunch with, I’d me so happy to meet you!
Best,
Heather
Hi Ange,
I live in Chicago as well, and would love to meet up! Are there any auxiliary events as part of the conference that we could attend?
I think you’ll have a great time in Chicago! I’m really excited for the Healthy Living Summit myself. But I disagree with recommendations for dining at the Chicago Diner… The Chicago Diner is like veggie fast food. All mock meats and really processed. There are other great healthy veggie places that actually use vegetables in their vegan dishes (such a novelty, right?). There’s a chain called Karyn’s (raw food) which is really great and the Green Zebra. Sadly Chicago is pretty meat and potatoes’ish for the most part.
I’m not a fan of asparagus, but the other roasted veggies look delicious! I’ll keep this recipe in mind for the winter when I want to oven on!
I’m going to HLS…and I’m so excited! Actually, I’m a little nervous because I don’t know anyone else going and I’m a little shy. :) It will be my first time meeting the writers of blogs I read in “real life”. But I’m sure it will be a great time.
And I’m excited to find some good vegetarian restaurants in Chicago!
:O You’d never done maple roasted veggies!!?? You’d been missing out Angela!
Today I^ll do an exception to the rules of summer (no oven!) and I’ll do some maple roasted potatoes, onions, zucchini and eggplants from my vegetable garden… yum I can’t wait to taste it! :)
ciao ciao Lalla
I’ll be there working for one of the sponsors, Attune. Come say HI!!
I’m not a big fan of asparagus but I always had them steamed. I’m excited to roast them next time! I love crispy vegetable! I always roast my brussel sprouts and my brocoli now.
I have a question for you or your readers. My parents are coming over for 3 days this week and I don’t know what to cook to please everybody. I’ve been vegan for a month but my parents are not and my dad doesn’t think vegetables can be a meal… Any idea what I could cook for 2 dinners and 3 lunches?? I’m thinking about veggie burgers with sweet potato fries for one of the meals but I’m out of idea for the rest. It’s too hot to cook a lasagna (and they would probably not be fan of a cheeseless lasagna anyway). Thank you!
Ohmigoodness…. YUM. I love roasted veggies. LOVE LOVE LOVE!!!
I did my asparagus the exact same way last night – too funny!
I’ve only been to Chicago once, but I totally fell in love with it! Be sure to see The Bean when you’re up there. I can’t wait to see all your recaps of the city :)
SO MUCH ROAST! If I got a CSA share I’d definitely have a roast veg dinner every week before the next one. Awesomeness :D
Wei-Wei
I love putting maple syrup on absolutely everything! Oats, waffles, nut butter sandwiches, salmon… I’ve never thought to do it on veggies though. Great idea!
Eat lunch, dinner, or have cocktails at the John Hancock Building’s 96th floor. You can either spend 10-18 dollars to go to the observation deck, of you can get a stunning view of Navy Pier, the coast, and the city while enjoing dinner and conversation with friends, family, or you one and only.
Enjoy!
Yum love roasted veg! Roasted zucchini is super nice. I love how veggies get so sweet when they’re roasted – especially peppers.
I’m so envious of all the bloggers who get to go to HLS – it’s too far for me to travel but maybe one day….
I lived in Chicago for a summer, you will love it. Apparently there are great vegan restaurants like the Chicago Diner that are supposed to be delicious. The Armitage area is really really pretty with lots of boutiques and cute shops to browse in – plus a huge Wholefoods. It’s on the Brown Line. Downtown is so lovely, when I lived there I was a broke student though so I didn’t get to do too much exploring ;)
I live in Chicago and like everyone else has said, running along the lake is pretty much awesome. And if you head south you stay closer to the lake but the run north is beautiful too. I don’t think you can go wrong.
I can’t speak to the vegetarian restaurants but I often am able to make great veggie options out of appetizers or requesting something (not a vegetarian but eat that way a lot). But it’s true-Chicago likes its meat. Going to Millenium park is fun, even if it is touristy, it’s pretty and the Bean is cool-you could even make it part of a run. If you have time (or if Eric is looking for something to do), The Art Institute is amazing. And the architecture tour (on a boat) is really interesting too. I think you’ll have a lot of fun.
Unfortunately, I missed the tickets to HLS but if you are getting together outside of it, I’d love to meet up. Also-any chance you can bring some glo bars for us Chicagoans to purchase?? :)
I live in a suburb 15 minutes outside of Chicago and I can attest that it is one of my very favorite cities EVER! Go running along the lakefront. There is a nice long path that’s paved and although it can get a little crowded near the beach, the view of the city and the lake are gorgeous. Go to the Chicago Diner which is a vegetarian restaurant with lots of vegan options. Also one of my other favorite restaurants is Reza’s which is a Persian/ Mediteranean restaurtant with the BEST hummus and schwarma. I always order one of the veggie samplers.
Grant Park and Millenium Park are great to visit. Go to Navy Pier and ride the ferris wheel. Shopping on Michigan Avenue and State Street is a MUST. There is a huge Forever 21 on Michigan Avenue if you want cheap, cute clothes and accessories. There are plenty of tours, I’m pretty sure one of the hotels in the area offers running tours. The Lincoln Park Zoo is fun to see. Wrigleyville area is also fun to visit, lots of bars and people. If you have any more questions, feel free to email me!
Oh! And on Tuesdays, entrance to all of the museums are free! Although I suggest the Art Institute and the Field Museum.
Go to Chicago Diner. Supposedly the best vegan fare in town.
roasting asparagus is my favorite way as well. pretty much any veggie roasted is best :D
Those dark chocolate macaroons sound to die for! I’m from Chicago and I would definitely recommend going to Cousin’s Incredible Vitality. They have a juice bar and a raw food buffet! Also amazing desserts! I think you’d love it! Here’s a link to their website if you want to check it out: http://www.cousinsiv.com/restaurant/restaurant.htm. Grant park is a great place to run, you get a great view of the lakeshore :)
Hi Angela! I live in Chicago and I’m going to be at the Healthy Living Summit as well! As far as running goes in Chicago, you’ve only got all of beatiful Lake MIchigan to run alongside. :) I know the Summit is downtown, but it’s worth hopping on an express bus and going about 20 minutes north to run along the lake. There are a lot more trails/trees/nature up that way, as opposed to just the running path by the lake downtown.
I second the person who mentioned the bar/restaurant (The Signature Lounge) at the top of the Hancock Building. If you just go to the bar and not the observation deck you save $$ that you can use on a beverage instead. Plus you have a great view!
Angela–I live and work in downtown Chicago. If you’re looking for an amazing 5-mile run with killer views of the city, look no further than the lakefront trail. If you’re staying anywhere near the river in downtown, you can cross over Lake Shore Drive and head south on the trail. I’d recommend running around the museum campus (where Adler Planetarium, Shedd Aquarium, and the Field Museum are) on the trail right on the lake. This will also take you past Buckingham Fountain. :) It’s like sightseeing AND running all at one time!
Love roasted veggies especially when they are ones you are trying to use up from the crisper! Your asparagus looks mawvelous.
I’ve never been to Chicago but my best friend used to have a corporate apt. she lived in while traveling for her company. I’ll ask her.
Hi Angela!
I admire you for using your oven in the summer! We pretty much don’t use ours (or our stove top), minus the rare time baking is required. We purchased a griddle for our BBQ and it has opened so many doors for hot food cooking in the summer (hello BBQ fajitas, eggs, bacon, etc). :-)
Can’t go wrong with roasted veggies!!
summer is all about the roasted veggies on the bbq! I have to try the maple syrup version..yum!! I can’t wait for dinner now lol!
Summer evening walks are wonderful. I find I sleep so comfortably after going for a walk at night!
Have a great time booking your trip to Chicago! Sounds like a great event:)
Roasted veggies are always my favorite!! Even in the heat of the summer when the over heats my house up even more than normal!
I never thought of using maple syrup on roasted veggies!! That must come out amazingggggg. I love roasted asparagus. It comes out so crispy, yum yum!
I wish I was going to HLS!! Definitely check out the Karyn’s for me since I didn’t get to go there when I went. :( You also must check out Rick Bayless’ restaurants!!!! He always has a vegetarian dish that can be veganized and I had the best vegan dessert of my LIFE there!
I am really, really excited to meet you at HLS!!
We live about a half hour out of the city and I’m looking forward to taking an early morning run along the lake. What I love about Chicago is it is a very, very clean city. You will love it.
See you soon!
love this I roast zucchini ALL the time..so damn good..sprinkled with garlic olive oil salt + pepper mixed with eggplant. Tonight i did that then roasted some kale, then cooked millet and mixed it all together with white beans, nooch, balsamic, tomato puree/crushed tomatoes. OUT OF THIS WORLD delicious.
Millennium Park and the Art Institute are definitely places you should visit. The park has lots of great views and fun places to take pictures. I also went to a vegetarian restaurant called Green Zebra, which I liked. I remember them having a lot of vegan options too.
The first time I roasted asparagus, I had just skim-read Madhur Jaffrey’s Vegetarian Cooking. She says to soak the asparagus first. It makes it even better, especially when they’ve been languishing in the crisper for a while.
Will definitely have to try the veggie roast. My go-to has been soup or stir-fry.