OK, so we know that disposable water bottles are the devil’s work. And we’ve made our choice to not drink bottled water because we know that bottled water is 2,000 times more energy intensive than tap water. But with all of the water bottles out there, aren’t you tired of hearing about BPA-this and cancer-causing-that? Maybe it’s time that we look back to an enduring and recyclable friend. Today, this friend comes in the form of a beautifully designed, 22oz, Lifefactory Glass Water Bottle. Keep reading →

Taza Chocolate is the type of product that we at IzzitGreen strive to find and introduce to our community.  Taza was founded on the principle of combining the Mesoamerican tradition of chocolate with a modern, high-quality production, and to do so in a socially responsible way.  Their products are sold both online and at specialty shops, farmers markets and other eco-friendly establishments.  In short, Taza makes great unique chocolate. They are the type of business that if you believe in fair trade or sustainability, is worthy of consumer support. This is precisely what we are asking the IzzitGreen community to do.

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If you want to beat the heat this summer with a refreshing and healthy treat – nothing tastes better than a fresh and cool fruit smoothie!  Although there are many ready-made versions out there that are perfectly acceptable (and great if you are short on time), homemade smoothies allow you to control the ingredients and also find that perfect flavor combination.  I have listed a few of my favorites but feel free to experiment (and you may come up with some real duds) but most mixtures are delicious and super easy to make too.  So let’s get blending and as always, let me know if you try any of the suggestions.  Please feel free to send us your favorite smoothie recipe – we love to try new combinations.

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With one of the biggest weekends of summer right around the corner, I figured a 4^th of July recipe was in order.  One of my favorite ways to celebrate is with a casual BBQ in the backyard.  Imagine fresh flowers on the table, kids playing tag in the grass and lots of delicious food.  Whether entertaining a crowd or having a quiet meal for two, my 4^th of July recipe picks are yummy, easy to make, super healthy and festive.  Enjoy and as always, let me know if you have tried any of the recipes, and if so, how you liked them.

Super, Duper Colorful Pasta Salad

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Summer is here!  No more big yellow bus, no more eating breakfast on your way out the door, and best of all Summer Foods have arrived.  I thought I would try a new “twist” on my recipes blog and give you some fun and easy ideas of meals that you can create with your children.  Some you may need to help out with, and others the kiddos can create all on their own – and hey, who knows, maybe the cooking will continue even when that big yellow bus starts coming around the corner again.

Mini Bagel Pizzas

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I don’t know about your dads, but I do not think mine needs another tie, soap on a rope, or shower radio. With that said, how about making Dad a special meal that is healthy, hearty and easy to make? It is sure to please and is something the whole family can enjoy. I have included some links to products that may be helpful to you when creating your delicious Father’s Day meal. Enjoy, and as always, feedback is always greatly appreciated.

Father’s Day Menu: Grilled Filet Mignon, Roasted Asparagus with Shaved Parmesan Cheese, and Individual Chocolate Molten Cakes with fresh Raspberries…

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This Father’s Day buy a green gift that correctly reflects your type of Dad. You know, a sweet I wish I thought of that gift that is also sustainable, organic, recycled or fair. Yes, an eco friendly gift your Father/Grand Dad/Pops/Etc. will actually dig.

Here is our uber green, pretty cool if I don’t say so myself, Father’s Day gift buying guide:

For the Outdoorsy Dad

SE 2.0 Portable Water Filtration Bottle ($34.95, BuyGreen), Filtered Water Bottle ($9.95, Bobble)

A water bottle with built in filtration – not only replacing plastic bottles but also ensuring you drink the highest quality water. For the SE 2.0 Portable Water Filtration Bottle (left) each Sovereign Earth water filter produces over 100 gallons of pure water – 99.99% pure, removing contaminants like chlorine, agricultural and industrial pollutants heavy metals, and pharmaceuticals. Bobble (right) has a carbon-based filter that removes organic contaminates from regular municipal tap water and meets or exceeds NSF International Standard 42 for chlorine, taste and odor reduction. This filter you have to change every 2 months or after 40 gallons.

Solar Hybrid Flashlight ($19.95, BuyGreen)

An innovative solar flashlight, the Solar Hybrid Flashlight generates renewable power from sun or room light. An 8-hour charge in sunlight or room light will provide up to 16 hours of continuous light, and it can be charged over and over again. It also holds a single charge for over 3 years and comes fully charged. Keep reading →

Summer is a great time to take advantage of all the fresh fruits and vegetables available at grocery stores and farmer’s markets.  From blueberries and strawberries to zucchini and tomatoes, there is no end to what you can create.  My personal favorite summer meals include a number of wonderful salads (and no, not your salad of yester-year with iceberg lettuce, cucumbers and un-ripe tomatoes).  The salads I am talking about are bountiful, refreshing, colorful creations that excite the taste buds and get your creativity flowing in the kitchen. You can make cold salads or grill something to put atop a salad.  There is no end to the variations – so have fun and start experimenting.  Included is an easy Vinaigrette Dressing Recipe that would be a nice compliment to any of the salads below.  Whatever your tastes are, one of these salad ideas is sure to please even the finicky of eaters and, as always, please let me know if you tried any of the salads and if you liked them.  Bon Appétit!

Spinach Salad Ideas

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Ah, the signs of summer are here. Hot weather, cool drinks and the smell of the BBQ going in the backyard. Although biting into a juicy burger can be wonderful – I would like to suggest some delicious vegetarian alternatives to prepare on the grill that are sure to please. Grab your grillin’ tools and a large cutting board and let’s get started.

Lime-Infused Corn on the Cob

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Do you have a special recipe that your mom or your grandmother used to make when you were growing up that made your tummy happy and put a smile on your face?  Do you wish you had access to such a recipe? Well do not fear – here is a yummy and easy recipe for a traditional Swedish Berry Cake that my grandmother used to make for us every summer to have with our coffee or tea in the afternoon.  We would pick the berries ourselves in the morning and she would incorporate our harvest into her afternoon treat.  She would serve it with fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream – I encourage you to do the same (although it does decrease the “healthy” stats just a bit) – but come on – it’s summertime after all.

“Mormors” Swedish Berry Cake

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