Do you ever have one of those days in which everything goes wrong and the idea of going home and cook is just dreadful? Picture this scenario: you’ve just had a horrible day at work, you’re drenched down to your toes because it was raining hard and you’re hungry. You open your fridge— or cupboard— and your mind goes blank. The only thing you’d really feel like doing is get your phone and order takeaway. But you can’t always rely on junk food.
If, like me, you’ve found yourself in this predicament, do not panic. There is a way out, and that is called Pinterest. There are situations in which the cookbooks you have at home just won’t do so, instead of reaching out for the phone to call for pizza, use it to browse this unlimited food source.
Before I delve into the wonder that it is, let me tell you something. I am a book blogger— therefore in constant contact with other bloggers and authors— and several of these people will say that Pinterest is the devil because once you start using it, you will be sucked into the world of procrastination and be doomed forever. Sure, occasionally it can be a distraction, but it is also a great life saver if you’re out of ideas. And that is not *just* about food. You can get inspired for new make-up styles, or if you’re looking for a different hairdo because you have a date and want to look prettier than you already are. Or you have an old shirt and want to give it a fresh look. But these are stories for another time.
Back to the topic of food, for now. I am so blessed and grateful to have discovered Pinterest, I love to cook but sometimes my cookbooks leave me unsatisfied, and Pinterest has saved my curvy behind many times. I’ve discovered new recipes that I’ve already tried and have been enjoyed by my loved ones.
A while ago, for example, I decided that I wanted to try and eat healthier foods—basically, more vegetables— so I thought about what I could get that I liked. Broccoli came to mind, but I wasn’t completely sure because I was convinced I didn’t like them. Well, after I made this Chicken, Quinoa and Broccoli casserole, they are now one of my favourite foods!
I’ve also made White Chicken Enchiladas a few times, substituting cream of chicken soup with homemade béchamel sauce. The outcome? Delicious.
The Smoked Prosciutto mousse—with regular cooked ham and no pomegranate— has become a Christmas tradition.
With Pinterest, I’ve learned how to make sugar cookies. I had to adjust the oven settings and timing, of course, but they looked—and tasted—like they came out of a bakery.
My recent additions include a Zucchini Quiche and Chicken, Potato, Brie and Thyme tart. This one, in particular, has been a huge success.
I’d love to hear from you, now. How much you rely on Pinterest for inspiration? Have you found recipes that have been greatly appreciated by your family and friends?