Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Jane Iredale Makeup

It's time for me to review another beauty product! This time it's a whole line. Jane Iredale has an incredible line of mineral makeup.... Truly mineral that actually has skin-care benefits. Her makeup is great for sensitive skin and actually cures some skin disorders.

You can go to her website and actually read the ingredients. Most of her makeup is Vegan, Gluten Free, and Cruelty Free. She uses natural preservatives that are allergen free.

Unlike some beauty blogs, I have actually been using her products for 9 months now. I absolutely love them! I have combination skin that breaks out very easily. I've battled with acne all of my life, so that means that I have battled with makeup that really conceals blemishes all of my life. I use her Disappear Concealer with Green Tea Extract, which actually works great on acne and under-eye circles. I apply the concealer first and then dab Bare Minerals Concealer over the top for extra coverage. Then I use Jane Iredale's PurePressed Base Mineral Foundation over the top of that. It is supposedly anti-microbial so it keeps bacteria off the surface of your face. It seems to be working, because my acne has improved. The concealer is also supposed to heal blemished instead of dry them out. I have also tried their Eyeliner Pencil in Midnight Blue, but it tends to fade easier than I would like. It might just be the color though.

If you have problem skin at all or are just looking for a great natural makeup free of harsh dyes and preservatives, check it out! It is definitely worth the money. I haven't even put a dent in my powder or concealer in 9 months!

Enjoy!

Thursday, June 13, 2013

Sesame Avocado Spring Rolls


I was feeling in the mood for something new, something fresh, something healthy and packed with vegetables, and then I stumbled upon these delicious spring rolls! Sesame crusted avocado and cabbage spring rolls?!? Yes, please.

I had never made spring rolls before, but they are quite simple. I can't wait to try my own rendition of these. Naturally Ella does a brilliant job of combining a simple, tasty treat. I would recommend not using as much lime juice, a half a lime will do. If you want this recipe to be more healthy, just skip the pan-frying of the avocado and just roll it in the sesame seeds. They shouldn't have a problem sticking. These would also be great with chicken or pork strips. Oh! Another added bonus is that they are Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Egg Free, Soy Free, and Vegan.








Sesame Crusted Avocado Spring Rolls
Adapted from: Naturally Ella

1/2 head red cabbage
1 carrot, shredded through grater
Juice from 1/2 lime
1 tbsp honey
2 ripe avocados
1/4 cup sesame seeds
1 tbsp sesame oil (olive works too)
6-8 spring roll wrappers
1/4 cup cilantro
Soy Sauce or Coconut Aminos*

1. Shred cabbage and carrot and toss with lime juice and honey. Set aside.
2. Slice avocado in half, remove pit, and slice down the middle length-wise. Remove skin, and slice into 1/2 inch slices.
3. Roll slices in sesame seeds until covered.
4. Heat oil over medium-high heat and place avocado in skillet. Cook until golden brown, about 2 minutes on each side.
5. Fill bowl with hot water to dip the spring roll paper in (a bowl that is wide enough to submerge the entire paper in works best).
6. Soak rice paper for 10-15 seconds (not too soft, just pliable), and place on cutting board or counter.
7. Place a small handful of the cabbage-carrot mixture in the center of the spring roll, and top with avocado and a sprinkle of cilantro.
8. Roll the spring roll by tucking one side over the food in the middle, fold in the sides, and continue rolling. You can roll them pretty tightly. It's surprising that they are tough to break.
9. Slice in half and serve with soy sauce or coconut aminos.

* Coconut Aminos are a great substitute for soy sauce for those of you who might be allergic to soy, like I am, or for those who are avoiding high-sodium foods. It looks and tastes exactly the same and is much better for you. You should be able to find it in Whole Foods, Earth Fare, or something similar. 

Enjoy!!