It was freaking freezing today – 46 degrees with a wind chill of 40 when I left work this afternoon. EEK! It was nice knowing you supple skin, bare toes and static-free hair. Let’s touch base in another 6 to 7 months, mmkay? 
I stared out my big picture window at work all day, shuddering every time the cold wind whipped through the trees, and dreaming about the bright & sunny dinner salad I’d be making later that night. 8)
The mother of all salads, if you will – The Toppings Salad!
Now I’m not one to make a lot of salads for dinner. For one, they don’t usually keep me full for longer than a couple hours, which just fuels my evening snacking fire.
For two, I’m looking for a meal at dinnertime. Something I can really sink my teeth into. Know what I mean? (Cheeseburger Pizza, I’m looking at you…)
The salad I featured on last week’s Friday Favorites has been weighing heavily on my mind though, so I decided to pump the heck out of it by adding TONS of toppings in the form of of fresh fruit, veggies, lean protein, nuts and healthy fat to make it ultra satisfying, but give it maximum staying power too.
Lettuce is overrated – toppings are where it’s at!
In the mix:
1/2 a mango + cherry tomatoes,
1/2 an avocado + chevre (soft goat cheese – drooooool)
salted cashews + grilled chicken breast.
Drizzled with this incredible Marzetti Strawberry Chardonnay Vinaigrette, that’s sweetened with strawberry juice and a touch of kiwi juice. It’s so delish!
In addition to adding the vinaigrette to my topping-centered salad, I marinated my chicken breasts in a splash of it for a few hours before grilling. It added just the slightest tinge of sweetness that I just loved.
Not only was this dinner salad packed with good-for-me, uber-filling toppings, but each bite was a new flavor combo. I think I liked the mango/goat cheese/ chicken combo the best. 
Cross your fingers, but I think this has just the right mix of healthy fats, protein, and carbs to keep me full all night long. If not, I’m still hoarding Pumpkin GingerCRACK Cookies. Whew! 
In other news, it’s been decided that tonight shall be reading night at Casa de IGE! Neither Ben nor I have anything on TV that we want to watch, he just got a couple of new books at the mall this weekend, and I have agreed to put tidying up the house aside (twist my arm) to settle down with my Kindle and a Hot Apple Cider K-Cup. Now I just need to pick out a title!
Reading was practically a religion growing up. I remember being semi hated in grade school for consistently getting the most stars on the board for books read outside of class. I’d go through Babysitter’s Club, Sweet Valley High and Goosebump novels like they were going out of style.
Then high school happened and things got busy with dance, friends and eating at Friday’s. Next I went to college where there was zero time to read between school assignments and sorority shenanigans, and it’s been hard for me to settle back down into a consistent reading routine even after all these years.
I think reading is really good for the mind and soul, and every time I DO finally carve some time out to dig into a new book I ask myself why I waited so long to do it. I love, love, love getting lost in a good story, fiction or non-fiction, so I guess it’s just one of those things I have to be better at making time for.
Now, what’s everybody reading these days?
~~~~~
Are you a big reader? Did you used to be/have you always been?
That salad looks amazing. I am reading The Orchard by Theresa Weir. Its an amazing memoir and I would highly suggest reading it.
I’m reading A Stolen Life, Jaycee Dugard’s memoir. It’s interesting, but disturbing and hard to read at times. I like knowing there is a happy ending. On a brighter note, I have enjoyed several of Emily Giffin’s books.
Yes call me crazy but I am reading the Harry Potter novels. Sure maybe I am too old for them but who cares. I’ve watched the whole series in the movies but I’ve never read the books. Currently I am at the end of book two.
You’re never too old!! That’s one of the best series I’ve ever read and I’ve read a LOT of books!!
Fun and well-written! The first couple go quick but they get much better!
I was not interested in Harry Potter AT ALL until I was required to read the first one in a Children’s Lit class I took in college. I got hooked and read them all!
I’m reading Harry Potter 3 right now!
Loved Harry Potter! The woman has an amazing imagination. My daughter has the series and when she was younger we had to replace book 2 because she read so many times.
I’m so sad to be saying good-bye to the warmer temps! We finally broke down and turned the heat on and I broke out the slippers and sweatshirts. Ugh. Have I mentioned that I hate wearing socks!?!?
I LOVE reading! I took my love of literature and writing and made it my career!
Right now I’m reading a book about teaching, but I have a long list of fabulous fiction to read. I want to read The Help because I’ve heard it’s fabulous, but haven’t had any time to do so!
I’m working on The Night Circus and really loving it so far! I agree though, it is so much harder than it was when I was younger to get into a good reading pattern!
I’m reading that book too and I’m really enjoying it — I’m kind of hoping they make a movie out of it because the descriptions are so vivid and amazing. (BTW, the author’s name is Erin, my name is Erin and your name is Erin — bazaar!!)
The salad looks great! I made Chicken Pot Pie Soup, recipe posted on FB by my friend Meg. Super easy in the crock pot.
I have always been a reader. I am reading Rob Lowe’s autobiography “Stories I only tell my friends”. It is interesting in an 80′s Brat Pack sort of way. I love my kindle but I also like to read “free” books from my public library! I also enjoy Emily Giffin!
HUGE reader!
I love Hunger Games, Sarah’s Key, anything by Jen Lancaster, Emily Giffin, Jennifer Weiner, or Jodi Piccoult… I loved Shenghai Girls, Still Missing, and Bossypants… the list goes on!
Your salad is where it’s at- alllll about the toppings, baby!
I absolutely LOVED the Hunger Games Book 1. I just started Book 2.
Hunger Games rocked! I am just starting Book 2 as well… actually looking forward to my five-hour flight tomorrow because of it – I will be completely occupied!
I just finished the Twilight series actually.
A little behind, I know. Fabulous books. But now I’m back to Jodi Picoult too… LOVE her writing. Always a fantastic story!!
The Kindle has brought me back to my reading habit which I’m so very thankful for. I’m currently reading a book about a man who underwent cochelar implant surgery, since that will hopefully be me soon. I’m a big non fiction reader but if something is super cheap on the kindle store I’ll give it a try. I too was always getting reading stars in school. I think we ate at Pizza Hut once a week becuase I had “Book-It” stars. Remember those?
YES! And I totally forgot about those Pizza Hut Parties!!
I LOVED book-it too!!
In middle school we were required to take “tests” on the books we read. They were mutliple choice on the computers in the library and it was basically to force you to read. Some kids would take the test on huge books (like Grapes of Wrath), hoping to squeeze a few points out. I didn’t need to do that. I easily got the most points out of everyone in the whole school. I got an award at the end of the year and a $25 gift certificate (this was before gift cards!) to Barnes & Noble.
Salad looks wonderful!
I love to read and my biggest problem is that once I start I have issues putting it down! I have some very good friends that just sent me a Kobo book reader with over 450 books loaded! I have just finished the Charm School by Nelson Demille for the gazionth time, but love that book.. so far just scanning and grabbing a book and going for it!
I’m reading A Feast for Crows by George R.R. Martin, which is the 4th book in the Song of Ice and Fire series. I found this series hard to get into at first, but midway through the first book I got hooked big time and I’ve loved it ever since. I’ve always been a big reader, pretty much ever since I was able. It’s so true what you say though, there is no time in college for ‘fun’ books. I really missed it back then.
That salad is one of the most eye-appealing salads I’ve ever seen.
The Song of Ice and Fire is amazing! Overwhelming but so worth it! Sometimes it’s hard for me to keep track of all that’s going on. If it’s the same for you, check out the chapter summaries (and tons of other things for a Song of Ice and Fire geek like myself) at thetowerofthehand.com
-Megan
P.S. Did you see The Game of Thrones on HBO?!?! Amazing!
Tuesdays with Morrie
Do you like science writing? I’m currently reading “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks.” It’s amazing. Look it up at your library or on Kindle. (BTW — Did you know the Des Moines Library has a free Kindle service now?)
I LOVED that book! good recommendation, Teresa!!
I got that book for Christmas and loved it! Amazing story…
I was a big reader until I got to college. Then I quit reading anything other than text books. With all that studying, I just didn’t feel like reading for leisure. Seven years later (after graduate school), I started reading again!! Now I can’t believe I ever stopped.
Last book I read was The Art of Racing in the Rain, which I have mixed feelings towards. It was a predictable story, but I still bawled like a baby through the whole thing, so that’s something.
In college reading text books monopolized so much of my time, I never wanted to read for personal pleasure. Now that I am done with school I try to read 5 books a month. Right now I’m reading The House at Riverton by Kate Morton and next up is The Book Thief.
The Book Thief is fantastic! Really haunting. So much so that I cried. In my library. And tried to pass it off as allergies
I couldn’t agree more, that’s such a good book. I rarely read books twice but that’s one that I think I’ll read a few times.
I listened to The Book Thief on audio. I thought at times it was a little slow, but it is such a great story! Very sad too, of course.
This is a salad I could sink my teeth into! Looks outstanding!
That salad looks amazing! I love a good, loaded-up salad and fruit makes it that much better.
Reading……..hmmmm……I’m sure I’ve read a book this past few months. HA! With 3 kids I don’t find too much time but when I do I’m like you, asking myself why I waited so long. Honestly, by the time it’s 9 o’clock and everyone is in bed I’m pooped. However, I did read The Help and it was fantastic. I also like to read anything funny since I can easily come back and not have to worry too much about the story line. David Sedaris is one of my favorites along with Haven Kimmel. Great memoires that will have you laughing out loud!
i LOVED babysitter’s club books.. i had all of them as a kid and my mom eventually donated them to our church (when i was 20..) and i flipped! it was something i wanted to pass on to my girls (i’m 22, obvs way off) and last christmas, my mom bought them ALL back on ebay.. which cost her a small fortune. she said it was worth it and i agree!
I was SUCH a bookworm growing up! I read and read and read all the time. Now, I no longer have a commute to work, so readings slowed down just a bit, but I think with the crummy weather I’ll pick it up again. Nothing beats cozy nights in with a good book (kindle!).
If you haven’t read the Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evonovich then you NEED TO START RIGHT NOW! The first movie is coming out next year and I cant wait! They are HILARIOUS!!! Trust me!!!
In the last month I just read “Two Kisses for Maddie” and “The Kite Runner”. Both were AMAZING books that really changed my outlook on life. Highly suggest either of them, and I promise you won’t be able to put them down! Salad looks great by the way!
Yum, that salad looks amazing! I love to read and am just starting the lost girls, a travel memoir.
i’m reading Heidegger’s glasses right now…it’s kind of fantasy/historical fiction/love story from nazi germany. fascinating! i also recently discovered Pam Jenoff. she’s an excellent writer- so compelling and writes historical fiction, my favorite.
Just finished Unbroken. Ah-mazing. And I got to see Louis Zamperini!! He came and spoke in my town. What an inspiring story!
Unbroken was so, so good. I read it in a day. I just could not put it down. I love a good novel but it’s great to throw in some non-fiction every once in a while. I loved the author’s writing so much I’m thinking of picking up Seabiscut next. That is when I’m not busy reading hundreds of articles for grad school. Le sigh…
Tell me about it! So neat you could meet him!
The Hunger Games….all the way!
Love that book
a salad with strawberry vinaigrette and mango sounds to die for. Too bad raw veggies make me sick
I’m taking a time out from reading “A Game of Thrones” because “Are you there, vodka? It’s me, Chelsea” by Chelsea Handler was finally on hold for me (It was so long ago, I completely forgot I requested it!). Two very different books, but enjoying both. Although, “Are you there…” is no Tina Fey “Bossypants.”
I just finished reading Unbroken the other day! It is absolutely riveting. My mom gave it to me and said it was “so good” and at first I was confused how a book about world war II would get that rating from her, but after a few pages, I was hooked… it’s a must-read!! Now I’m reading “Then came you” by Jennifer Weiner…quite a change..haha
Honestly – I’m reading my new children’s book Ella B. Bella and the Secret Ingredient.
http://www.ellabbella.com Plenty of book signings/readings have been keeping me busy! But..when I’m not reading that – I’m into my magazines right now. I haven’t had time lately (with two little girls) to read a good book. So if I can carve out 20 minutes in the tub, I open up a favorite mag (real simple or Martha are must haves) to relax! By the way – what sorority were you in??
You must read The Hunger Games series! Can’t put them down!
I loved all books when I was little, and devoured them to a point where I wasn’t allowed to buy anymore Babysitter Club Books. Now I have a Kindle and have been reading much more frequently. I just finished Cutting for Stone & The Murderer’s Daughter. Both great books however Murderer’s Daughters was one of those that I couldn’t put down, even for cooking new recipes:)
That salad looks great! The dressing sounds even better!
I used to be a huge reader. I haven’t read a book in such a long time and I really miss it. I need to get back into reading.
Oh, I will be grabbing some of that dressing when I go grocery shopping this week. Yum!
I have always been a voracious reader. It never waned for me.
I’m rereading “The Stand” by Stephen King. I try to read it once a year. It’s my all-time favorite book (ever) and it changed my life. I recommend it to everyone!
You should join our book club!!! It’s called Books ‘n Bars and we started it over the summer. We pick a different bar each time we meet and read one book a month. For October we’re reading Middlesex and meeting at Star Bar. Previous books have been The Help, Saving CeeCee Honeycutt, Secret Daughter … and we’ve met at places at like Mullet’s, Tally’s, Saints and High Life. Let me know if you’re interested!
Oh, I hear you on the goat cheese and chicken. I went to the Arboretum yesterday for a 4 mile walk and had a salad with blackened chicken with walnuts and and goat cheese. Yum!
As for books, I go back and forth. I typically order a bunch (say 9 or so) from the library and then read all of them in 3 weeks then take a break. I usually read non-fiction and have 2 books now: Never Be Sick Again and All I Ever Needed to Know I Learned in Kindergarten. The first book was excellent; I just finished it. The second book is so-so but has a few laughs here and there.
First of all – nothing to watch on TV? I have so many I cannot decide . . . . . I do read at bedtime and am currently working through Dick Francis novels. Horse racing. Mystery. Good!
I’m currently obsessed with the Song of Ice and Fire series…currently half-way through A Feast For Crows. I also love love love The Hunger Games. Can’t wait for the movie!
P.S. My husband and I recently moved for Des Moines down to Texas for his job and I love reading your blog and getting a taste of home (especially with all the Hawkeye talk!)
Looks like a great salad, I’m trying the gnocchi tonight. I just finished Smokin’ Seventeen – Janet Evanovich. Hilarious, the Stephanie plum sires is a fun read.
That salad sounds amazing… I’ll have to make that when I’m having a case of winter depression.
I’m reading Unbroken… amazing story about WWII
I have always been an avid reader! I grew up in a tiny town, and our library was sorely lacking. So I loved our school book fairs, and Sam’s club and any book store in a 50 mile radius! I also bought books through mail and had to do inter-loan library to get books!! I managed to squeeze in reading time even though I was super active in high school. Everywhere I went I had a book or two or three with me. My husband is a huge fan of the library, and we have library cards to 3 different towns in our area! The sad thing is, even after taking our daughter to all the fun stuff at our local libraries, reading to her every single day, and buying her every book she loved when she was little, she doesn’t like to read!! It’s a tragedy! She’s 13 and will only read Manga (Japanese comics). Sadness…..:D
I just finished the Hunger Games trilogy…read it! I’m also reading The Red Tent right now, it’s fantastic!
I was a huge reader too, and worked my way through BSC, SV Twins/High, etc. etc.
I’m currently reading “I Know this Much is True” by Wally Lamb. I’ve read two of his other novels and they were both very good.
And–your salad looks great. Salads are always better with great toppings!
I’m currently reading Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire. It’s the novel that the musical is based on. I’m reading it in anticipation of watching the musical next month at the Civic Center – can’t wait!
Also have been working my way through Michael Connelly’s books (author of The Lincoln Lawyer).
I have always been a huge reader and still am to this day. I like easy and light reads usually, right now I am reading the last book in the Vampire Diaries series! haha, you’d think I was 12
Next up I am going to try some of Sarah Dessen’s book, they seem like my type.
I have read a couple great page-turners lately, the kind that keep you up at night because you just can’t put them down. Before I Go To Sleep and Midwife’s Confession. Loved them both!
I have been desperately trying to get back into reading on a regular basis, but I just can’t seem to make the time. I have a list a mile long that I’m hoping to start when my class ends November. I too, was a BSC fanatic and even had the pleasure of meeting Ann M. Martin herself. I nearly fainted! I still have every book in my closet at my parents house and would honestly cry if I found out my mom donated or sold them.
P.S. If you need a Tuesday night show, I very highly suggest “Parenthood”. Seriously ADORE this show!
You got to meet Ann M. Martin? SO.JEALOUS!!!
And yes, Parenthood is awesome!
I’ve always been a huge reader, but it’s fallen by the wayside lately. My problem is that I don’t just read books, I devour them. It’s almost an addiction. I finished The Help the same day I started it, reading until 3 a.m. until I finished it. I try to limit myself, because otherwise I literally neglect everything else until the book is read.
I’ve recently read The Violets of March by Sarah Jio. It’s a page turner, romance and mystery with several underlying plots. I highly recommend it as a good book to pick up on a rainy day or anytime, really. It’s the writer’s first book and she has another book called The Bungalow coming out in December. Try it you’ll enjoy it.
I loved Violets of March too!
That salad does look delish! I’m reading The Last Single Woman in America (an impulse purchase at Half Price Books a while back). I actually made a rather ambitious (and public) pledge to read 26 books in 2011 and blog about them along with a few other people. I’m failing miserably since I’m only on book No. 5. I just can’t kick my Netflix obsession
That’s an awesome salad o’ toppings! I really do love reading but with graduate school, it’s hard to get non-school related reading incorporated into my day. I try to read before bed but it takes me a while to finish a book because I fall asleep after a few pages.
OH– did you know there is a new Sweet Valley High book?? My BFF was so excited when this came out this year and I thought you might be interested. http://www.amazon.com/Sweet-Valley-Confidential-Years-Later/dp/0312667582/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1319009064&sr=8-1