Fun In Frisco

At the start of the summer, Golan and I decided that we were going to make more of an effort to explore Colorado. We live in this wonderful place and we might as well see all that we can see! 

The first stop was the town of Frisco, Colorado. I have driven past Frisco too many times to count on my way out to other cities in the mountains. It always seemed like a pit stop on the way to bigger places. After walking down Main Street and sitting on the edge of the marina, I'm not quite sure how I ever overlooked it. This little town is brimming with charm, friendly natives and good food.

Last weekend was Frisco's Fall Fest- a little festival where local artists, craftsmen and restaurants showcased their wares. We saw some beautiful work but we found the perfect place just past the fest. And that place was the marina. 

I mean just look at it. Sitting at the edge of the dock was so calming. Golan and I both realized just how much we love being lakeside. As we reluctantly left late in the afternoon, we made a plan to one day own property on a lake, complete with a little boat and some Adirondack chairs on the shore. Doesn't that sound divine? 

Take some time to explore your own backyard. You might be pleasantly surprised by what you find. Let me know if any of you have been to Frisco and leave suggestions for more Coloradan mountain towns for us to visit! 

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Chocolate Drizzle Salted Popcorn

September has always been a transitional time of year for me. You get the final days of summer mashed up with the beginnings of fall. Thanksgiving and Halloween decorations invade stores, pumpkin spice everything returns and the temperatures begin to cool. 

During this transition, it can be a little bit difficult to pick what sorts of foods to eat. At least it is for me. Part of me still craves light and fresh summer cuisine but another (slightly stronger) part of me is totally ready for the savory and warm-your-belly goodness of autumn. 

If you follow me on Instagram, you will have already gotten a sneak peak of this deliciousness. This snack is my current go-to for curbing my "fall" cravings. 

Popcorn is such a versatile snack and you can really customize it to suit your preferences. While it isn't particularly nutritious, it is better than greasy potato chips. This particular recipe reminds me of the Moose Munch I used to eat by the bucket-load as a kid. The mix of sweet and savory has always been a favorite of mine and this chocolate drizzle salted popcorn really hits the spot. 

The best part is that while it feels like I'm eating something very special, it is so easy to make. In less than five minutes you are left with a seriously delicious and filling snack. 

In the past, I have tried to drizzle melted chocolate and have failed. Miserably. I ended up with a clumpy mess that was less than pleasing to look at and therefore less appetizing. But I have come up with a solution.

The secret ingredient: Coconut Oil.

By adding coconut oil to the melted chocolate, the chocolate becomes smooth and silky and perfect for drizzling. But if you're not careful, you'll over do it (if it is possible to over do chocolate). What was a light and healthy snack will turn into basically a bowl of chocolate with a little bit of popcorn mixed in. While I'm sure that would be delicious, it isn't really the goal here. You've been warned!

The second secret ingredient is a handful of pepitas- shelled pumpkin seeds. Not only are these delicious enough to eat on their own but they add the perfect amount of crunch and texture. Plus, these little guys are packed with health benefits. They contain magnesium, zinc, omega-3 fats, protein and free-radical fighting antioxidants. And that's just the start. Google "health benefits of pumpkin seeds" and you will be seriously amazed. 

AND WITHOUT FURTHER ADO...



Chocolate Drizzle Salted Popcorn Recipe
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Prep Time: 5 Minutes

Cook Time: 5 Minutes

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Ingredients: 

• 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the popcorn)
• 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil
• Handful of roasted unsalted pepitas; approximately 1/8 to 1/4 cup
• 1 teaspoon sea salt

Directions:

1. Place olive oil and popcorn kernels in a medium sized saucepan (with a lid). Stir around to be sure that each kernel is coated in oil. Cook on medium heat. Everyone's stove is a little bit different but the key is to give enough heat to pop the kernels without burning the pieces on the bottom of the pan. Shake the saucepan to keep the kernels moving to avoid burning.
2. In a small bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave for approximately 30 seconds. Stir. Place the mixture in the microwave for another 30 seconds, or until completely melted. 
3. Drizzle the chocolate mixture over the freshly popped popcorn to your heart's content.*
4. Sprinkle pepitas and sea salt over popcorn and chocolate
5. Enjoy!

Notes:

* If the chocolate mixture begins to thicken, place the bowl back in the microwave in 10 second increments until desired texture is achieved. 

I'd love to see your popcorn creations! Be sure to tag me on Instagram or send me photos on Twitter. I rarely hear from you lovely readers but I love it when I do.

Also, leave a comment down below with your favorite snack recipe and I can do my best to recreate them.

Thank you for reading- I can't wait to hear from you!

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