(Family Features) As the days get longer and the temperatures rise, it’s time to fire up the grill and elevate your outdoor cooking game. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out, success comes down to three essentials: quality ingredients, the right seasonings and reliable equipment that gives you full control over heat and timing.

If you’re ready to turn up the heat this season, explore high-performance grilling solutions from Nexgrill – built to match every cooking style and skill level. From backyard barbecues to weeknight dinners under the open sky, its lineup is designed to help you serve up unforgettable flavors all season long. Visit nexgrill.com to learn more and get inspired.

Unlock a New Level of Outdoor Cooking Versatility

Transform your backyard into a chef-inspired kitchen with the Gourmet Pro 6-Burner Stainless Steel Gas Grill featuring the Griddle Max Cooking System. Designed to go beyond traditional grilling, this powerhouse lets you grill, saute, griddle and smoke all at once or on demand. The innovative system makes it easy to achieve restaurant-quality results, delivering unmatched versatility for any meal. Built with stainless steel burners, angled flame tamers and porcelain-coated cast-iron cooking grids, it ensures consistent heat and fewer flare-ups. With 811 square inches of cooking space, six main burners and a high-heat searing side burner, you’ll get 75,000 BTU of total cooking power.

Take on Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

From sizzling fajitas at your backyard bash to early-morning pancakes before your next adventure, the Daytona 4-Burner Propane Gas Griddle delivers the heat, flavor and performance you need. Designed for versatility, this powerhouse features a 792-square-inch cooktop and four stainless steel burners, giving you the space and control to cook multiple dishes at once. Built-in convenience comes standard with dual side shelves, a lower storage rack to keep tools within reach and a removable grease cup for quick and easy cleanup. When it’s time to pack it in, a heavy-duty lid protects your cooking surface.

From Kitchen to Patio, It Goes Where You Go

Grilling isn’t just for the backyard. When weather or space keeps you inside, the Fuse 22-inch Electric Griddle delivers bold, flame-free cooking anywhere there’s an outlet. Ultralightweight and easy to transport, it’s built for seamless indoor-outdoor use. With 308 square inches of edge-to-edge heat, a durable nonstick surface and digital temperature control, this electric flattop offers precision and power. A hinged lid with a built-in viewing window locks in heat and flavor so you can cook efficiently. From weekday breakfasts in the kitchen to weekend feasts on the patio, it can be your all-access pass to delicious, flexible cooking – wherever life takes you.

SOURCE:
Nexgrill

(Family Features) Easter is all about festive family gatherings and good food. Whether you’re celebrating with your closest or hosting a larger crowd in your home, try these simple tips to keep everyone happy and full without blowing your budget.

Plan ahead: Don’t let the pressure of hosting the holidays stress you. A well-constructed game plan can help you stay on track with your spending goals. Before heading to the grocery store, take inventory of what you already have and create a list of the items you need. These simple steps can save you time and money in the long run.

Find affordable ingredients and supplies: Grocery shopping can be a daunting task, especially with seemingly endless options. Shopping at a grocery store like ALDI helps you find everything you need in one quick and easy shopping trip, including high-quality, fresh, affordable foods for your Easter spread. While there, you can also pick up other Easter essentials like baskets, toys, bakeware, decor and more.

Keep leftovers in mind: Food (and money) can go to waste when leftovers go uneaten. Instead of tossing out your forgotten leftovers, incorporate them into a whole new dish. Try these Holiday Ham Sliders using leftovers from main dishes such as Slow-Cooked Maple Ham.

Find more tips and recipes for an appetizing Easter at ALDI.us.

Slow-Cooked Maple Ham

Recipe courtesy of Chef Alyssa, ALDI Test Kitchen
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 5 hours, 15 minutes
Servings: 10

Pour pineapple into large slow cooker. Place ham on top of pineapple, flat-side down.

In small bowl, combine syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, Dijon mustard and pepper. Pour over ham.

Set slow cooker to low. Cook 4-5 hours.

Remove ham; keep warm. Skim fat off top of remaining liquid in slow cooker.

Pour liquid into small saucepan and bring to boil. Reduce heat to simmer; cook until reduced to desired consistency.

Serve sauce on side or heat oven to broil and glaze ham. Broil 3-4 minutes for caramelized crust.

Holiday Ham Sliders

Recipe courtesy of Chef Linsey, ALDI Test Kitchen
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6

Heat oven to 350 F.

Line 9-by-13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and coat with cooking spray.

In small bowl, combine cranberry white cheddar and havarti cheeses. Reserve.

Remove entire package of rolls and, keeping rolls connected, slice in half horizontally.

Place bottom half of rolls in baking pan. Spread with spicy mustard.

Top with red onion, ham, apple, cheese mixture and bun tops.

In small bowl, combine butter, garlic powder, salt and parsley flakes. Pour over sandwiches.

Cover with foil and bake 15 minutes.

Remove foil. Bake 10 minutes more.

Remove from pan and separate sandwiches; serve immediately.

Family Features

Easter is a time to celebrate with friends and family. You can create a crowd-pleasing brunch with affordable, high-quality ingredients, wine and tablescape decor.

Elevate your holiday brunch beyond an egg casserole with a Spiral Ham with Red Wine and Citrus Glaze as the centerpiece for your table.

Finish the meal with a Mini Blueberry Chocolate Tart for a dessert that’s perfect for spring. Combining sweet and fruity notes, this treat can leave your guests craving more.

Find ingredients for these recipes at ALDI, which offers high-quality, fresh and affordable foods to help you put together a vibrant spread. From brunch essentials and beverages to fruits, veggies, snacks and more, you can make Easter pop. Plus, there are chocolates, candy and flowers to add a splash of color to your table or any Easter basket.

Find additional recipes at ALDI.us.

Spiral Ham with Red Wine and Citrus Glaze

Recipe courtesy of Rebecca Gallop (@adailysomething) on behalf of ALDI
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10-12 minutes per pound of ham

Ham:

Glaze:

To make ham: Heat oven to 325 F. Place ham in roasting pan on rack. Pour reserved liquid over ham and cover tightly with foil. Bake 10-12 minutes per pound.

To make glaze: In small pan, combine wine, orange juice, syrup, brown sugar, rosemary and salt. Heat to boil then lower to rapid simmer until mixture begins to thicken and reduce, about 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and whisk in mustard.

When ham is 10 minutes from being done, remove from oven and increase temperature to 400 F. Remove foil and brush ham thoroughly with glaze.

Place ham back in oven, uncovered, about 10 minutes, or until ham reaches internal temperature of 140 F.

Remove ham from oven and let sit 10 minutes. Slice and serve.

Mini Blueberry Chocolate Tart

Recipe courtesy of Chef Michelle, ALDI Test Kitchen
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 17 minutes
Servings: 12

Heat oven to 400 F. Cut 1-2 sheets of parchment paper into 5-by-5-inch squares. Line each cup of 12-cup muffin pan with one square of parchment paper.

Roll out pie crust and cut 12 circles, 2 inches each, with cookie cutter. Press each circle into lined muffin cup.

In medium bowl, combine sweetener, blueberries and chocolate. Divide mixture among pie crusts.

Bake 17 minutes until chocolate melts. Allow to cool and serve.

(Family Features) Amazing food is the centerpiece of most holiday gatherings. This Easter, impress guests with your culinary talent by making simple dishes simply amazing. With a little special attention, even the most basic foods can evolve into dishes worth sharing with loved ones.

Most chefs agree that spices and seasonings are essential elements of your kitchen arsenal. This Easter, give your spread a boost with spices and herbs of the highest quality, such as those from Spice Islands, which crafts and packages spices and herbs from around the world to deliver the most authentic and intense flavor possible.

Update your traditional ham with a spicy, honeyed glaze; give a side serving of carrots a tasty twist and end the affair on a sweet note with a rustic, utterly delicious dessert. Find more flavorful ideas to elevate your Easter menu at spiceislands.com.

Spiced Maple Carrots

Prep time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

In large skillet, combine carrots, water, cinnamon and ginger. Mix well. Cover and cook on high 6 minutes until almost tender.

Add maple syrup and butter. Mix well and continue to cook, uncovered, 2-3 minutes, until carrots are well-glazed. Season, to taste, with sea salt.

Spiced Honey and Black Pepper-Glazed Ham

Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12

Heat oven to 325 F.

With sharp knife, score ham at 1-inch intervals; place in baking dish. If ham appears dry, moisten surface with water. In small bowl, combine black pepper, mustard and garlic powder. Rub pepper mixture over surface of ham. Roast according to package directions.

Combine honey, cinnamon and cloves. Drizzle over ham during last 30 minutes of roasting. Remove ham from oven and let rest 20 minutes before slicing.

Anise, Pear and Almond Crostata

Prep time: 45 minutes
Total time: 2 hours, 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Crostata Crust:

Anise Almond Filling:

To make crust: In food processor, combine flour, frozen butter and salt. Pulse until dough is size of large peas. Add 3 tablespoons ice water and pulse several times. Pinch dough to see if it is holding together; if not, add water a couple of teaspoons at a time, pulsing once or twice after each addition, until dough holds together. Form dough into disk, wrap in plastic wrap and chill 30 minutes.

Heat oven to 400 F.

To make filling: In food processor, blend almonds, anise seeds, sugar, egg, vanilla and salt until paste forms. Add room temperature butter and blend again. Set aside.

Toss sliced pears with 2 tablespoons sugar and lemon juice. Set aside.

On sheet of floured parchment paper, roll out dough into 13-inch circle; transfer on parchment to rimless cookie sheet.

Spread almond paste onto circle, leaving 2-inch border. Scatter pears on top, covering almond paste. Fold dough up and over pears, overlapping dough as needed. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle crust generously with extra sugar.

Bake until pears are tender, 40-45 minutes. If crust starts to get too brown, lightly cover with foil. Remove tart from oven and brush pears with heated apricot preserves. Serve with cream or ice cream, if desired.

Sensational Cinnamon

With its rich hue and warm aroma, cinnamon can bring spicy sweetness to all kinds of baked goods. However, all cinnamon is not the same. There are two main varieties of cinnamon, Indonesian and Vietnamese.

Vietnamese, which is used in the Spice Islands Saigon Cinnamon featured in these recipes, tends to have a brighter, spicy taste. The forests of Vietnam are known for their premium cinnamon. High in volatile oils, the Vietnamese cinnamon trees produce a deep, reddish-brown cinnamon with an intense fragrance and sweet, red-hot-candy-like flavor.

Celebrate the holiday with tasty desserts and time with family

(Family Features) Sweet, delicious treats make Easter celebrations magical, putting the final touch on brunch, lunch or dinner gatherings. Whether your crowd enjoys the sweet-tart combination of fruit-infused cakes, mini bundts with personalized decorations or rich, creamy cheesecake, the dessert table is sure to be popular.

Blueberry Lemon Bundt Cake and Carrot Cheesecake from “Cookin’ Savvy” are perfect desserts for sharing with loved ones, made with little effort and a lot of love. You can even let little ones help in the kitchen with Fun Mini Easter Bundts by allowing their creativity to run wild – just hand over the icing and chocolate toppers then watch the artistry unfold.

To ensure your feast goes off without a hitch, create these tempting cakes the day before for a no-hassle Easter.

Find more ways to elevate Easter celebrations with food by visiting Culinary.net.

Blueberry Lemon Bundt Cake

Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Yield: 1 cake

• 1 pint fresh blueberries, rinsed
• 1 box lemon cake mix
• 1 stick butter, melted
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup milk

Glaze:

• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons milk

1. Heat oven to 350 F.
2. Grease bundt pan and place rinsed blueberries in bottom. Mix cake mix, butter, eggs and milk; pour on top of blueberries. Bake 35 minutes. Let cool and remove from pan.
3. To make glaze: Mix butter, sugar and milk then pour over cake.

Fun Mini Easter Bundts

Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Yield: 24 mini bundts

• 1 box confetti cake mix
• 1 stick butter, melted
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup milk

Chocolate Toppers:

• 1 cup each color melting chips of desired colors
• silicone Easter candy molds of desired shapes
• 1 pouch ready-made green icing

1. Heat oven to 350 F.
2. Mix cake mix, butter, eggs and milk. Pour into greased mini bundt pan and bake 20-25 minutes. Let cool and remove from pan.
3. To make chocolate toppers: In bowl for each color, melt melting chips in 1-minute intervals in microwave until thoroughly melted. Pour into baggies and snip corner. Pipe melted chips into molds and freeze 15-20 minutes. Pipe green icing onto mini bundt cakes for "grass" then place chocolate mold pieces on top.

Substitution: Save time on toppers by replacing with store-bought chocolate bunnies, eggs, crosses or marshmallow bunnies.

Carrot Cheesecake

Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Yield: 1 cake

Cake:

• 1 box spice cake mix
• 1 cup grated carrot
• 1 cup coconut
• 4 eggs
• 1 stick butter, melted
• 2/3 cup vanilla Greek yogurt

Cheesecake:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

Topping:

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/2 cup chopped white chocolate chips

1. Heat oven to 350 F.
2. To make cake: Mix cake mix with carrot and coconut. Using hand mixer, blend in eggs, butter and yogurt. Pour mixture into greased springform pan and bake 30 minutes. Let completely cool in pan.
3. To make cheesecake: Using hand mixer, whip whipping cream and sugar to form whipped cream and set aside.
4. Using hand mixer, whip cream cheese, vanilla and powdered sugar. Add in whipped cream and mix. Pour onto completely cooled carrot cake in springform pan. Let set in refrigerator at least 4 hours or overnight before unspringing pan.
5. For topping: Sprinkle chopped nuts and chocolate chips on cake before serving.

Tip: For extra festive appearance, add desired Easter candy on top.

SOURCE:
Culinary.net

5 tips to make holiday hosting simple

(Family Features) Easter signals springtime and provides an opportunity to gather with loved ones to celebrate. However, hosting the get-together – whether brunch, lunch or dinner – requires planning and preparation to ensure the event is enjoyable.

From the guest list and menu to the decor and activities for the kiddos, consider these steps to get ready for Easter hosting duties.

Make a Guest List
When planning your gathering, first think about how many people your space can accommodate. Ensure there’s a place for everyone to sit and eat, even if that means bringing in extra tables and chairs or designating a “kids table” so all the adults can sit together. Once you know how many people you can invite – and have a plan for seating – send out festive invitations or create a group on social media with your preferred guests to gather RSVPs.

Take Inventory of Necessities
Once you have your guest list set, take inventory of serving dishes, utensils, linens and glassware. Depending on the number of guests, you may need to invest in extra supplies or borrow from a friend or relative to ensure you have everything you need. If you don’t have enough of one set of plates and flatware, mixing and matching is a trendy move and can serve as an additional aspect of your decor.

Plan the Menu
When setting your menu, traditional favorites like ham or lamb are almost always a hit but remember to consider any diet accommodations that may need to be made for any vegan or vegetarian guests. Dishes featuring eggs, carrots, ginger and other ingredients that call spring to mind like quiches, soups, galette and more can be a perfect complement to the traditional main course. Serving the meal family-style with platters and bowls for everyone to share or hosting a potluck with guests bringing assigned dishes can help reduce the stress of trying to prepare the entire meal yourself.

Decorate in Advance
From a seasonal wreath on the front door to a well-dressed table complete with place settings and a festive centerpiece, getting your decorating done early can not only reduce stress on the day of your event but also get you into the proper mindset for the celebration. A pastel or light-colored hue can add to the springtime vibes, and flowers, seasonal fruits in bowls and decorated eggs can all add to the tablescape.

Keep the Kids in Mind
While the meal is likely a highlight of the event for many, the younger guests often look forward to the activities, such as decorating eggs or an Easter egg hunt. You can hard-boil eggs in advance and set up a decorating station, complete with dyes, markers, stickers and more. Or while you’re finishing up inside, designate another adult or older children to hide pre-filled plastic eggs around the yard (weather permitting) and manage the hunt.

Find more ideas for hosting Easter festivities at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

(Family Features) If you’ll be hosting friends and family for Easter this year, creating the perfect spread doesn’t have to be hard. Make your gathering as simple as it is delicious by serving dishes that can be made ahead of time then easily put together on the big day.

Opting for an array of appetizers can help keep hungry people out of the kitchen until the main course is ready. Featuring easy prep and short cook times, these apps from “Cookin’ Savvy” can let you spend more time creating memories with loved ones.

Whether you’re celebrating with your nearest and dearest or hosting a larger crowd, these Deviled Eggs, Pimento Cheese Bites and Spinach Bites recipes can be halved or doubled to fit your needs. Plus, they feature many ingredients you may already have on-hand, making them easy to prep ahead of time to avoid spending too much time in the kitchen while trying to host.

Find more recipe inspiration to make your Easter celebration extraordinary at Culinary.net.

Deviled Eggs

Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Yield: 16 deviled eggs

• 8 boiled eggs
• 1/2-3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons mustard
• 2 tablespoons dill pickle juice
• 1 package (2 1/2 ounces) real bacon pieces
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• smoked paprika, for garnish (optional)

1. Slice each egg and place whites on plate and yolks in bowl.
2. In bowl of yolks, add 1/2 cup mayonnaise, mustard, pickle juice, bacon pieces, garlic powder, onion powder and salt and pepper, to taste. With fork or hand mixer, blend until smooth. Add more mayonnaise until mixture reaches desired smoothness.
3. Spoon or pipe mixture into egg whites. Garish with smoked paprika, if desired.

Note: Deviled eggs can be made day before and kept covered in refrigerator until needed.

Pimento Cheese Bites

Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Yield: 12 shells and 12 tops

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 jar (4 ounces) pimentos, drained
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 package (2 1/2 ounces) real bacon pieces
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 2 packages frozen puff pastry shells

1. With hand mixer, blend cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, bacon pieces and salt and pepper, to taste, until smooth; set aside.
2. Heat oven to 400 F.
3. Thaw then bake pastry shells 15 minutes.
4. Remove tops and set aside. Spoon pimento cheese mixture into each shell.
5. Place dab of pimento cheese mixture on tops for smaller appetizers.

Notes: Pimento cheese mixture can be made in advance and kept in refrigerator up to 5 days before using. Recipe can be halved or doubled depending on needs.

Spinach Bites

Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Yield: 24 spinach bites

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup thawed frozen spinach
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
• 1 package (2 1/2 ounces) real bacon pieces
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 1 package (2 sheets) frozen puff pastry

1. With hand mixer, blend cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, spinach, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, bacon pieces, garlic powder, onion powder and salt and pepper, to taste.
2. Heat oven to 400 F.
3. Thaw and roll out puff pastry sheets. Cut each sheet into 12 squares. Place each puff pastry square into hole in muffin pan then spoon spinach mixture into each square and pinch corners together. Bake 15 minutes and serve warm.

Notes: Spinach mixture can be made in advance and kept in refrigerator up to 5 days before using. Recipe can be halved or doubled depending on needs.

SOURCE:
Culinary.net

Tips for planning a travel adventure

Family Features

If you find yourself dreaming of sunshine, sand and sparkling pools, it may be time to start looking forward to your next vacation getaway. Get a jumpstart on building excitement for the journey ahead by beginning preparations early, which offers many benefits, including better rates and more time to research your options.
Start exploring ideas for a fun-filled trip with these tips from the travel experts at Funjet, which specializes in providing travelers with vacation packages to hundreds of destinations around the world:

Plan Ahead
Booking your vacation well in advance allows you to take advantage of the best deals at the most popular hotels and hottest travel dates. In addition, by being flexible with travel dates, families can save hundreds of dollars. Moving travel dates by a day or two can result in major savings, often even more than the discounts you can get on last-minute trips.

Research Dream Destinations
Deciding where you want to go is the first step, but with a literal world of possibilities, it can be difficult to narrow down your choices. Las Vegas is the only U.S. city to make the top 10 list. Mexico is especially popular, with Cancun, Cozumel, Puerto Vallarta and San Jose Del Cabo. Others include Belize City, Belize; Liberia, Costa Rica; Montego Bay, Jamaica; Panama City, Panama; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Consider All-Inclusive Options
Whether you prefer adults-only or family-friendly, luxury or budget-friendly, there’s a di­­verse range of all-inclusive resorts to choose from. All-inclusives are known for their convenience and value. They offer hassle-free experiences with meals, drinks and often activities included. While many resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean islands are all-inclusive, be aware that smaller islands like Antigua may feature European plan-style hotels, where meals and drinks are not included.

An all-inclusive package usually encompasses a variety of activities and amenities curated to offer an enjoyable and cost-effective vaca­tion. Within these packages, guests often have the opportunity to access amenities such as swimming pools, engage in sports activities, participate in fitness classes and other entertaining experiences.

Pack Like a Pro
Gathering everything you need for a vacation, especially with kids in tow, can be stressful. To make the process easier, organize your packing based on factors like the length of your trip, airline policies and your family’s activities. Essentials like an umbrella should not be overlooked, especially if your destination’s weather can be unpredictable. Maximize luggage space by packing travel-sized toiletries and put electronic necessities like your mobile device, charger and headphones in your carry-on bag.

Anticipate Extra Expenses
While all-inclusive resorts make tropical getaways stress-free and eco­nomical, it’s customary to express appreciation for exceptional service with tips. Resorts typically don’t require tipping, but guests commonly tip as a gesture of gratitude. When deciding to tip, families should consider modest amounts, like $1-5 per meal per person, and be mindful of different service levels as well as the convenience of using local currency. Having cash on hand makes it easier to tip as needed and ensure you have extra for souvenirs and other purchases.

Unplug and Unwind
Although most travelers believe it’s essential to stay connected, it’s a good idea to limit screen time so you can make the most of your vacation. Schedule a specific time, preferably in the morning, to address emails and online tasks then enjoy a worry-free rest of the day. While phones are often used to capture photos and videos or look up information about nearby attractions, putting away the screens means you’ll be able to enjoy the scenery, connect with loved ones and have a truly rejuvenating experience.

Protect Your Group Travel
When traveling with a group, there’s a greater chance of something happening that changes plans between when you book your trip and leave.That’s why it can be a good idea to take a “travel with confidence” approach and consider including a travel protection plan in your reservations. This insurance allows travelers to cancel their trip for any reason, if necessary. When traveling with a group, stick with nonstop flights when possible, as you’re more likely to stay together, which can mean more cost-effective travel.

Enjoy the Experiences
While spending leisure time by the resort pool with afternoon cocktails can be a relaxing reward, you can make the most of a destination vacation by also planning a tour. Many destinations offer services that can assist travelers with booking various adventures, ranging from catamaran cruises to hikes and almost everything in between.

Find more tips and plan your next adventure at Funjet.com or call your local travel advisor.

Where to Stay

Start planning your dream getaway by checking out these traveler-favorite destination properties, based on bookings through Funjet:

Top 10 All-Inclusive Resorts
• Dreams Onyx Resort & Spa (Punta Cana, Dominican Republic)
• Dreams Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort (Nayarit, Mexico)
• Riu Caribe (Cancun, Mexico)
• Riu Guanacaste (Costa Rica)
• Riu Negril (Jamaica)
• Iberostar Grand Paraiso (Riviera Maya, Mexico)
• Riu Cancun (Mexico)
• Royalton Riviera Cancun, An Autograph Collection (Mexico)
• Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun (Quintana Roo, Mexico)
• Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa (Oaxaca, Mexico)

Highly Rated Hotels for Groups
• Royalton Riviera Cancun, An Autograph Collection (Mexico)
• Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort (Quintana Roo, Mexico)
• Dreams Flora Resort & Spa (Punta Cana, Dominican Republic)
• Oasis Palm (Cancun, Mexico)
• Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach (Honolulu, Hawaii)
• Marival Emotions Resort & Suites (Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico)
• Royalton Punta Cana, An Autograph Collection (Dominican Republic)
• Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa (Oranjestad, Aruba)
• Bahia Principe Grand La Romana (Dominican Republic)
• Dreams Macao (Punta Cana, Dominican Republic)
• Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres (Mexico)
• Zoetry Agua Punta Cana (Dominican Republic)

(Family Features) Abstaining from eating meat during Lent is common practice for many, but it doesn’t mean you have to deprive yourself and loved ones from delicious meals. Whether you observe Lent or are simply looking for new ways to replace traditional proteins for a meal or two each week, there are countless mouthwatering recipes you can turn to.

Consider Chamomile-Infused Jasmine Rice with Salmon, for example, with floral jasmine notes pairing nicely with earthy chamomile for an easy yet elegant feast that’s ready in just half an hour. With its mild flavor, salmon offers a pleasing starting point for those easing their way into incorporating more seafood into their diets.

Although originally cultivated for the Kingdom of Thailand, you don’t need to be royalty to enjoy premium Boil-in-Bag Jasmine Rice from Success Rice. In just 10 minutes, you can enjoy this sweetly aromatic solution that cooks up soft and fluffy every time for a unique flavor that complements seafood and more. It’s also naturally gluten free, Non-GMO Project Verified and free of MSG and preservatives.

Another option for swapping out traditional protein is with plant-powered meals. Even picky eaters can find plenty to love in this savory Crunchy Thai Peanut and Quinoa Salad. Quick to prep, it’s a perfect answer for busy weeknights that calls on the power of peanuts and quinoa to replace protein from your usual favorites.

This convenient, crunchy dish calls for light, nutty Success Tri-Color Boil-in-Bag Quinoa that’s packed with protein, all nine essential amino acids and fiber, making it perfect for Lenten meals from salads and bowls to veggie-forward casseroles and even muffins.

Find more Lent recipe inspiration and meatless meal ideas by visiting SuccessRice.com.

Chamomile-Infused Jasmine Rice with Salmon

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1          bag Success Jasmine Rice
• 4          bags chamomile tea, divided
• 4          tablespoons butter, divided
• 4          tablespoons lemon juice, divided
• 2          tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped, divided
• 1 1/2    teaspoons salt, divided
• 1          teaspoon pepper, divided
• 4          skin-on salmon filets (5 ounces each)
• 1          bunch asparagus, woody ends trimmed

1. Preheat broiler. Prepare rice according to package directions, adding three tea bags to simmering water with rice to infuse with tea flavor.
2. Transfer rice to large bowl. Tear remaining tea bag; mix half with 2 tablespoons butter and melt in microwave to infuse butter.
3. Mix infused butter, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon chives, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper; fold into rice and set aside.
4. Arrange salmon and asparagus on foil-lined baking sheet. Drizzle remaining butter over salmon and asparagus. Season with remaining salt and pepper. Broil 9-11 minutes, or until salmon begins to flake and asparagus is tender.
5. Serve salmon and asparagus with rice. Drizzle salmon with remaining lemon juice and garnish with remaining chives.

Crunchy Thai Peanut and Quinoa Salad

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1          bag Success Tri-Color Quinoa
• 1 1/2    cups shredded cabbage mix
• 1/2       cup cilantro, roughly chopped
• 2          tablespoons fresh mint, roughly chopped
• 1/2       cup English cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/2       cup carrots, shredded
• 1/2       cup red bell peppers, thinly sliced
• 1          tablespoon soy sauce
• 1          teaspoon fish sauce
• 1          teaspoon sesame oil
• 1          teaspoon honey
• 1          teaspoon white vinegar
• 1/4       cup peanuts, roughly chopped

1. Prepare quinoa according to package directions. Cool.
2. Mix cooled quinoa with cabbage, cilantro, mint, cucumber, carrots and bell peppers.
3. In small bowl, whisk soy sauce, fish sauce, sesame oil, honey and vinegar.
4. Add dressing to quinoa and toss to combine. Top with peanuts.

SOURCE:
Success Rice

(Family Features) Freelancers, creatives and on-the-go leaders know they can only go as far as their tech takes them. Make sure you – or the loved ones in your life – can harness the power of productivity with the latest gadgets.

Whether you need to power more productive work hours or seek inspiration for “you” time, ignite performance with these laptops powered by the Snapdragon X Series. Multi-day battery life, unmatched performance and on-device AI capabilities allow you to power through tasks – business or personal – uninterrupted. Unlock exceptionally fast processing power and experience game-changing speed, power efficiency, enhanced security and simple device management.

Discover tech solutions for both professional and personal use at Qualcomm.com/Snapdragon.

Streamline Creativity with a Smart Sidekick

Unlock the freedom of creativity with AI-powered performance on the ultra-slim Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x powered by Snapdragon X Elite. Dazzling 3K PureSight OLED display with 1,000 nits peak brightness and Comfort Edge Design are engineered for on-the-move creators. Built for next-gen AI experiences, it’s not just smart – it’s your creative sidekick that knows what you need before you do, streamlining tasks with leading on-device intelligence action. Amazingly slim and unexpectedly tough, find out how AI can match your A-game.

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Push your AI experience to the next level with the Dell Inspiron 14 Plus powered by Snapdragon X Plus, built with a portable design backed by all-day battery life up to 15 hours. With groundbreaking on-device AI and powerful performance, it enables a faster and more efficient experience from virtually anywhere. It’s easy on the eyes with Dell ComfortView Plus, a tall 16:10 aspect ratio for more vertical space and less scrolling, a hardware low blue light solution and vibrant details from the QHD+ resolution, 400-nit brightness level and Dolby Vision.

Level Up On-the-Go Creativity

Designed for tech-savvy freelancers and on-the-go leaders, the HP OmniBook X powered by Snapdragon X Plus is built with a sleek design and the perfect synergy of AI-enhanced power and mobility. It’s sleek and versatile with multi-day battery life, taking productivity and creativity up a notch through style, function and mobility. Lightning-fast responsiveness provides top performance without sacrificing portability for work and play as you can stream up to 12 hours of video calls or binge 22 hours of your favorite shows.

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Bringing intelligent AI solutions to your fingertips with features that effortlessly streamline settings, optimize your video experience and elevate communication, the Acer Swift 14 AI powered by Snapdragon X Elite delivers exceptional responsiveness with multi-day battery life. Peak performance with lightning-fast data speeds and responsiveness allows you to work efficiently and enables multitasking with ease. Bring work to life with a color-rich OLED display in a premium ultra-thin chassis with Copilot+, which helps boost productivity and security with on-device AI solutions.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock (man and woman using laptop)

SOURCE:
Qualcomm

(Family Features) On a day that signifies the importance of love and companionship, many people find it rewarding to show their loved ones just how much they mean. If you’re in the gift-giving spirit this Valentine’s Day, you may find a bit of inspiration with these ideas.

Just remember, whether you’re celebrating the relationship with your significant other or showing appreciation for a friend, the best gifts come from the heart.

• Food – If your partner is a foodie, a Valentine’s Day date is an obvious choice. Make a reservation at his or her favorite restaurant or opt for takeout and enjoy quiet time together in the comfort of home. Satisfy that special someone’s sweet tooth with a classic box of chocolates or create a personalized candy basket full of guilty pleasures.
   
• Jewelry – Whether you’ve been together a year, a decade or more, it’s a perfect opportunity to splurge for a gift he or she will cherish for a lifetime. Necklaces, bracelets, earrings, anklets, watches and more all make for perfect gifts that can often be customized with engravings like names or important dates.
   
• Experiences – Oftentimes, the gift of moments together means more than a trinket. Consider the things you enjoy doing side by side and schedule a day or weekend to do nothing but your favorite activities. Book a tour at a local museum, find tickets to the next big game, sit frontstage for a favorite band or road trip to a nearby attraction for new sights and sounds.
   
• Subscriptions – Gifts don’t always need to be sentimental. Sometimes, they can be downright practical. Creating an account for a new streaming service or music platform, signing up for monthly food or wine gift boxes and buying ticket packages for a favorite local team are all gifts that keep on giving.
   
• Handwritten Notes and Flowers – Take time to write what you appreciate most about your special someone – personality traits, favorite memories, thoughtful gestures and why they’re important to you – and pair your note with favorite flowers. Gifts may spark a smile, but sharing a moment of connection offers a reminder of what you’re celebrating in the first place.

Find more Valentine’s Day gift ideas by visiting eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

SOURCE:
eLivingtoday.com

(Culinary.net) Finding something unique and special to do on Valentine’s Day for your significant other can be a challenge. Every year, the day to celebrate love rolls around and every year it may seem like you’re out of ideas. Many people feel the same way.

However, with just a couple bowls, a cookie cutter and a skillet, your Valentine’s Day could start off a lot sweeter.

Try these Red Velvet Heart Pancakes, which are one of a kind and a delicious way to spend your morning with your loved one. Celebrating the day of love has never been easier.

Start by combining flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a large mixing bowl.

In another bowl, whisk an egg and add buttermilk, butter, vanilla extract and a few drops of red food coloring. Whisk everything together and pour it into the first bowl of dry ingredients.

Prepare a skillet and grab a heart-shaped cookie cutter. Pour a small amount of batter into the cookie cutter in the skillet, let it cook for 2 minutes then remove the cookie cutter and flip. Let it cook for 1 additional minute.

Add your favorite pancake toppings like butter, syrup, powdered sugar or raspberries. In the end, you will have yourself a scrumptious breakfast, made with love and as sweet as can be.

Kids also love the fun shape and color of this breakfast. It’s a neat way to have them help in the kitchen and make a meal for the whole family.

Valentine’s Day is a big reason to celebrate. You don’t have to stick to the same flowers and chocolates as last year. Mix it up with this delectable recipe meant to spread some love on a significant day.

Find more breakfast recipes and sweet treat ideas at Culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Red Velvet Heart Pancakes

Servings: 8-10

• 1          cup flour
• 1/4       cup sugar
• 3          tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1          teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2       teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 1          egg
• 1          cup buttermilk
• 2          tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus additional for garnish
• 1 1/2    teaspoons vanilla extract
• 30-40   drops red food coloring
• nonstick cooking spray
• syrup, for garnish
• powdered sugar, for garnish
• raspberries, for garnish

1. In large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
2. In medium bowl, whisk egg. Add buttermilk, 2 tablespoons butter, vanilla extract and food coloring; whisk until combined.
3. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir to combine.
4. Spray heart-shaped cookie cutter with nonstick cooking spray and place in skillet. Add enough batter to fill heart. Cook 2 minutes. Remove heart cutter. Flip pancake and cook 1 minute.
5. Serve with butter, syrup, powdered sugar and raspberries.

Note: If mixture is too thick, add water until desired consistency is reached.

SOURCE:
Culinary

(Family Features) If you’re feeling pressure to plan the perfect Valentine’s Day date, it may be time to veer away from tradition. While flowers, chocolates and dinner for two is a classic, thinking outside the box can make for just as romantic of an experience.

Consider these simple date ideas to reduce stress and make your day extra special.

Take a Dance Class
Learning something new together can be a great way to bond with your significant other. Research dance studios in your area and book a lesson for a night out. Many studios offer new or first-time discounts and typically have a variety of lessons available from ballroom to salsa, cha cha and more. If dancing isn’t really your thing, consider another skill-building class you can do together like pottery, cooking or painting, for example.

Recreate Your First Date
Take a trip down memory lane and go back to the beginning of your relationship by recreating your first – or a favorite – date. Whether you went bowling, mini golfing, to dinner and a movie or something else entirely, reliving the past can be a special way to connect and show your partner how much you care.

Plan an Indoor Picnic
If it’s too cold outside for an actual picnic, clear some space in your living room and throw down a blanket. Pack a basket of finger foods like sandwiches, cheese and crackers, fruit, a bottle of wine and dessert for a romantic meal for two in the comfort of home.

Book a Staycation
A getaway doesn’t have to mean going far from home. Become tourists in town by booking a night at a nearby hotel and visiting some local landmarks you’ve been wanting to check out or haven’t experienced in a while. A simple break from routine can make for an enjoyable escape, even if you’re only a few miles from home.

Schedule a Photoshoot
If the last time you had your photo professionally taken was on your wedding day or a family vacation, hire a photographer for a couples photo session, and use it as an opportunity to create fun memories together. Many photographers offer mini sessions, which only take 15-30 minutes, leaving time for a night out afterward. For an inexpensive option, have a friend take a few casual pictures or use a selfie stick to help document your date.

Cook Dinner Together
Restaurants are often booked up on Valentine’s Day, so try something different this year and make a special home-cooked meal together. Whether you make a tried-and-true favorite or whip up something new, like a heart-shaped dish, you’ll bond over the experience while creating a tangible (and hopefully tasty) reward once the oven timer dings. Then dim the lights, play some soft music and light some candles to create a romantic ambience while enjoying dinner together.

Go On a Road Trip
Take a day – or a weekend – and venture to a destination you haven’t been before on a romantic Valentine’s Day getaway. Even if traveling far away isn’t possible right now, exploring a town or two over allows you to check out new restaurants, stores or other attractions and get out of your comfort zones.

Find more ideas for celebrating Valentine’s Day at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

SOURCE:
eLivingtoday.com