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7 Magical Outdoor Activities in Lithuania

July 25th, 2020June 8th, 2021

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With ECOTOURISM on the rise people are planning trips to destinations that have less people and more outdoor activities. Discover Lithuania and experience these Magical Outdoor Activities in Lithuania.

7 Magical Outdoor Activities in Lithuania

People who are traveling now are looking for nature experiences rather than big cities. People are looking to be far from crowds and want to delve into natural practices, such as hiking or camping. Eco-tourism is on the rise.

Lithuania is one of the greenest countries in Europe, historically a forest country.

Lithuania has much to offer travelers looking for sustainable outdoor adventure. Under-the-radar wonders of nature draw into new experiences. Visitors may try herb picking, dragonfly watching or forest bathing.

Lithuania is a destination of peaceful respite. Its natural forests offer aesthetic pleasure of color and sound. Not long ago these woods hid military secrets as well. The remnants of Soviet ballistic missile bases may still be found in the forests of Central Lithuania, such as the ground-based medium-range nuclear missile base in the district of Ukmerge. But with the end of the Cold War, the forests of Lithuania have been returned to back people to enjoy, camp, hike, and more.

“We are a forest country,” explained Indrė Trakimaitė-Šeškuvienė, Head of Marketing at Lithuania Travel. “Forest is an important symbol of Lithuanian history and culture. Despite industrial development of the 19-20th centuries, we have preserved large spaces of natural forest. With the rise of eco-tourism these locations are turning into sites of meditation, natural health practice and other ways to achieve the deeper sense of unity with nature.”

She listed 7 opportunities to explore Lithuanian forest green in all its depth. Several sites can be combined in one tour taking one of the suggested camping routes or developing a route of your own.

7 Best Outdoor Activities in Lithuania

1. Herb picking. Using herbs and herbal tea as a cure is an established tradition in Lithuania. Most Lithuanians know the basics of herbal medicine: herbs that help digestion, ease coughing or other symptoms of cold and flu. But some go much deeper than that. In North-Eastern Lithuania, in the forest-surrounded town of Anykščiai, professional herbalist Ramūnas Daugelavičius combines traditional Lithuanian experience with knowledge of other cultures and scientific methods to provide unique experience of herbs. From herb picking for spices to special tea ceremonies, fire rituals and seed root coffee – all possible ways to enjoy the original gifts of nature.

2. Butterfly and dragonfly watching. Butterfly and dragonfly watching may be as interesting and rewarding as bird watching. Lithuania is the only place in the world where dragonflies are professionally monitored and marked. These small animals travel thousands of kilometres, as the scientists have found. At Ventė ornithology station the secrets of dragonfly migration are only now being uncovered. Not far from the station, in the Western part of Lithuania, ecotourism enthusiast Daiva Stanislovaitienė offers butterfly, dragonfly and bird watching trips combined with cozy stay in a comfortable villa.

3. Forest bathing. The Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku or forest bathing is a way to heal and restore the human spirit, which tires of work and rush of the technology-dominated world. The slow immersion into the forest through sight, sound, smell and even taste helps to relax, regain intellectual focus and strengthen health. A certified guide of shinrin-yoku Mila Monk gives private and group tours in different Lithuanian forests.

4. The largest dreamcatcher in the world. Dreamcatchers are said to protect from bad dreams. Those with serious nightmares should visit the pine forest in Asveja regional park in Eastern Lithuania. The largest dreamcatcher in the world is almost 13 metres high and 10 metres of diameter. It is made of more than 1 kilometre of rope, 700 hundred wooden parts, 319 beads and weighs 156 kilograms. The dreamcatcher is located in the territory of the eco resort Golden Forest. The resort also houses a forest labyrinth of four elements which can be passed only using the intuition, and holds the annual Masters of Calm festival for active and conscious community.

5. The forest gramophone. The forest sound catcher may be found in the Curonian Spit – the natural seaside reservation in the Western Lithuania. 3 metres high gramophone-like construction enhances the natural sounds of forest. The visitors should spend about half an hour inside to experience the peaceful flow of the forest symphony.

6. The forest dunes. Sand dunes are the usual sight of the Baltic seaside. But some of them are located far from the sea and deep in the forests. In the pine forests of South-Eastern Lithuania the dunes totally transform the landscape and provide unique experience of the raw nature.

7. Meteorite crater. 165 million years ago a huge meteorite landed near Vepriai in Central Lithuania. The explosion and fire extinguished all life in the territory of Lithuania and left a crater of 50 square kilometres. The best way to explore the site is to take one of the many bicycle routes across the crater.

Deep, green and magic Lithuanian forest is the place to enjoy peace and solitude traveling on foot, by bike or by camper.

Have you been to Lithuania? Which Outdoor Activities in Lithuania are you looking forward to experiencing first?

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Hydration Tips For Runners in the Summer

July 23rd, 2020July 23rd, 2020

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If you are outside running this summer, you need to read these hydration tips for runners. Taking care of your body and hydrating is essential. While this post is sponsored by Florida Milk, all opinions are my own.

Hydration Tips For Runners in the Summer

In the summer months, climbing temperatures can make outdoor exercise more strenuous and even potentially hazardous, especially an outdoor exercise like running. Fortunately, measures can be taken to prevent heat-related problems like dehydration, exhaustion, and cramps and ensure that the summer months are both enjoyable and healthful for runners. The easiest way to stay hydrated especially during the summer is to drink before you get thirsty, all muscles including your heart require fluids to work efficiently.

The heat index here in Florida today is over 100 degrees. That’s not just warm, it’s H-O-T. I mean really hot. But I still need to get outside for my regular exercise, and I need to be smart about it. Staying hydrated is always important, but it’s even more so in the hot summer months. So to help keep all my fellow runners running I wanted to share some tips that will help with hydration and staying healthy.

Here are hydration tips for runners (actually all athletes):

Understanding The Value Of Hydration

Maintaining adequate levels of hydration is the single most important measure to take in preventing heat injuries and drinking a sufficient amount of water throughout the day, and while running is crucial in higher temperatures. Drinking plenty of fluids before exercise, then a cupful every 10-15 minutes while running. It is best to either bring along water or to plan a running route that passes several water fountains.

After running, replace fluids with both water and a recovery drink, such as chocolate milk, which replenishes the body’s electrolytes and carbohydrates that were lost through sweat. It is important to note that beer, coffee, and other caffeinated drinks do not count toward the suggested 6-8 glasses of water per day, as both alcohol and caffeine are diuretics that contribute to overall fluid loss. So, drink your water and replenish needed nutrients with chocolate milk.

The overall benefits of hydration include: reduces daily fatigue, hydration promotes better performance, agility, and reaction time, ensures proper regulation of body temperature and being properly hydrated decreases daily stress on heart and reproves recovery time.

Allow Yourself To Get Acclimatized

In addition to hydration, several other factors are also important in maintaining a healthy jogging regimen in the summertime, the first being acclimatization. It takes at least two weeks of consistent running in heat and humidity for the body to adjust to warmer temperatures. It is best for runners to be patient in the early weeks, and even throughout the summer as they adjust their regimen to new conditions.

What To Wear

Wearing lightweight, light-colored clothing is important as well. Darker fabrics tend to trap heat near the body, whereas light-colored garments dissipate heat more easily. Runners should consider investing in micro-fiber clothing that wicks sweat away from the body, allowing for more comfortable exercise. Sunscreen is also essential, especially if joggers plan to be outside for lengthier runs. Waterproof, high-SPF varieties are best.

Consider The Timing Of Your Run

Another consideration for summer months is the time of day that runners choose to exercise. Temperatures peak mid-day, which means that running in the early morning or in the evening are better options for minimizing the sun’s potential harms. Air quality is also an important concern. Ozone levels rise at dawn, peak mid-day, and spike again in the early evening. Avoiding exercise between noon and 3 p.m. will reduce the risks associated with poor air quality and high temperatures.

Understanding Fluid Loss

Sweating is the body’s cooling mechanism, so hot weather exercise, especially running, will cause significant fluid loss. Replacing the lost fluids and electrolytes is important; not doing so can lead to heat exhaustion or potentially fatal heatstroke. Runners need to replace fluids lost working out in hot weather, actually in any weather!

One easy way to estimate how much fluid you need to replace after a run is to simply weigh yourself before and after running. Sweat soaked clothing will throw off the weight reading, so weigh yourself nude and towel off excess sweat. Every 2 pounds of weight loss is approximately a quart of liquid, or in metric units, 1 kilogram is a liter. Remember to account for the fluids you drank during the run.

Guidelines for hydration to remember are: Drink 15 – 20 ounces of fluids within 1-2 hours prior to event or exercise, for every hour of exercise drink 16 – 36 ounces of fluid including 8 ounces of electrolyte containing fluid and shoot for 16 – 24 ounces of fluid for every pound lost.

Be Mindful Of Calories Consumed Replacing Fluids

For a 150 pound person, a five-mile run will burn about 500 calories. In hot weather, losing 4 (or more) pounds of fluid is likely. The runner must, therefore, drink about a half gallon to replace the fluids lost in this run.

You can find the calorie content of a half-gallon of your favorite beverage by reading the nutrition label, remembering that there are 8 cups or 64 fluid ounces in a half-gallon, and doing the math. The number of calories in a half-gallon of some beverages is given below:

Apple juice 940
Beer, light 550
Beer, regular 820
Coca Cola 780
Coffee, latte 780
Cranberry juice cocktail 1100
Gatorade 400
Grape juice 1230
Grapefruit juice 920
Lemonade 1050
Orange juice 840
Pineapple juice 1050
Tomato juice 330
Water 0

Notice that with the exceptions of tomato juice, Gatorade, and water, a runner will consume more calories replacing the lost half gallon of fluids than the 500 calories burned running five miles. So, be mindful of how you replenish the fluids, and be sure to replenish nutrients as well.

Many runners and athletes drink low-fat chocolate milk after their workout because it helps restore muscles quickly and it helps replenish what the body loses during exercise — including fluids, important nutrients and electrolytes (calcium, potassium, sodium and magnesium) lost in sweat. Plus, it’s more cost-effective than sports drinks.

Why Grab For Chocolate Milk

Chocolate Milk (actually plain milk too) provides many key nutrients that can help support recovery post-workout. Milk contains electrolytes including calcium, potassium, sodium and magnesium to help replenish what’s lost in sweat, as well as fluids to help you rehydrate. In fact, research shows drinking milk after exercise could restore and maintain hydration better than other popular post-exercise beverages, including sports drinks and water. Researchers suggest it’s due to milks natural electrolyte content and its 90% water. And again, chocolate milk is more cost-effective 😉

Listen To Your Body

Paying attention to these tips will help you ease the transition from cool spring temperatures, allowing you to slowly adjust to running in the heat. However, as always, it is crucial for each individual to listen to their own body and take breaks when necessary. Taking it easy and being mindful of the conditions can help sustain a running regimen through the heat, ensuring the runner’s high throughout the entire summer. And be sure to hydrate and rehydrate! Grab for a glass of chocolate milk and give your body what it needs.

Do you typically run in the summer months? What is one of your tips for staying hydrated in the summer?

Learn more about Nutrition Tips For Runners.

Be sure to check out the upcoming races and Built with Chocolate Milk in the Event section here.

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Easy Blackened Shrimp and Pesto Pizza

July 21st, 2020August 25th, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

A bit of spice, a bit of garlic and a lot of flavor make this Blackened Shrimp and Pesto Flatbread Pizza a delicious easy meal idea. This easy dinner recipe is ready in 15 minutes for the family to enjoy.

Easy Blackened Shrimp and Pesto Pizza

Pesto is a very versatile ingredient, and it’s especially delicious on pizza. Remember that big patch of homemade pesto I made not too long ago, well, this pesto pizza is one of the recipes I created to make use of all that yummy basil pesto. I topped my pesto pizza with blackened shrimp, fresh tomatoes and a little bit of fresh Parmesan cheese. The spices from the blackened shrimp paired beautifully with the bold garlic and basil flavors from the pesto, while the fresh tomatoes added a nice layer of acidity. All-in-all, this Blackened Shrimp and Pesto Pizza was a hit in my house.

I used naan flatbread as the crust for my shrimp and pesto pizza because it was easy and you all know that I love easy recipes. Plus, I love naan flatbread! You can easily use a homemade pizza crust like the one I used in my Healthy Greek-Inspired Pizza or a store-bought pizza crust if you prefer.

As I mentioned, pesto is a very versatile “sauce” for your pizza, some other pizza topping suggestions that would be tasty on your pizza pizza would be: sun-dried tomatoes, chicken, onions, sausage, pine nuts, bacon, zucchini, squash etc. Really your options are endless.

To make my Shrimp and Pesto Pizza you will need these ingredients:
Shrimp
Naan flatbread or pre-made and cooked Pizza crust
Pesto – I used homemade pesto, but you can use store bought
Diced tomatoes
Parmesan Cheese

The directions for making my Pesto Pizza with Blackened Shrimp are simple:
Place naan flatbread or pizza crust on a pizza stone, pizza pan, or cookie sheet.
Spread about one tablespoon of pesto on the flatbread, this will be your “sauce” so be sure to cover the whole crust.
Bake in a preheated 425-degree oven for about 5-10 minutes or until the crust begins to get a little crispy.
While the naan flatbread is baking, sauté your shrimp in a bit of butter and sprinkle heavily with your favorite seasoning, I used DUST by VooDoo Chef.
When the flatbread is ready, remove it from the oven and top with the blackened shrimp, fresh tomatoes and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
You can place it back in the oven for a minute or two if you like your tomatoes warm.
Cut and serve.

Easy enough, right? I thought so! Now, here is my Easy Blackened Shrimp and Pesto Pizza recipe, be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make it again and again.

Print Recipe

Easy Shrimp and Pesto Pizza

This deliciously easy pesto pizza is perfect for lunch or dinner. Ready in under 15 minutes, this blackened shrimp and pesto pizza will soon be a household favorite.

Prep Time5

Cook Time10

Course: Easy Weeknight Meal or Lunch, Lunch/Dinner

Keyword: greek pizza, pesto, shrimp

Servings:

Author: Tracy

Equipment

Stove
Oven

Ingredients

1 Naan flatbread or pre-made and cooked Pizza crust
6 shrimp tails removed
butter or olive oil for cooking the shrimp
2 tsp your favorite seasoning, I used VooDoo Chef DUST
1-2 tbsp pesto I used homemade, but store will work as well
¼ cup diced tomatoes more or less to your preference
1 tbsp Freshly grated Parmesan Cheese

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°
Place naan flatbread or cooked pizza crust on a baking sheet.
Top with pesto, spread evenly over the whole crust.
Bake for about 5-10 minutes or until the naan flatbread begins to get crispy.
While the naan flatbread is in the oven it's time to sauté your shrimp in a bit of butter or olive oil and sprinkle heavily with your favorite all purpose seasoning, I used DUST by VooDoo Chef. Shrimp only takes a minute or two to cook, so keep an eye on it!
Remove the shrimp from heat when it's cooked thoroughly.
When the naan flatbread is done, remove from oven and top with the blackened shrimp, fresh tomatoes and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
You can place it back in the oven for a minute or two if you like your tomatoes warm.
Cut, serve and ENJOY

If you are looking for a wine to pair with this easy pesto flatbread, white wines will pair well with this type of pizza. To pair with the pesto, choose whites with floral and earthy notes, such as a Chardonnay or Riesling and don’t forget to chill it slightly before serving.

I hope you enjoy this Blackened Shrimp and Pesto Pizza recipe as much as we do!

What is one of your favorite pizza recipes? Have you ever added pesto to your pizza?

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Sweet & Spicy Watermelon Pineapple Salsa

July 19th, 2020May 4th, 2021

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Sweet. Spicy. Made with fresh fruits and vegetables this easy Sweet & Spicy Watermelon Pineapple Salsa will soon be a family favorite. This fresh salsa recipe is prepped in 15 minutes and helps donating free meals to your local foods banks. While this post is sponsored by Healthy Family Project, all opinions and the recipe are my own.

Sweet & Spicy Watermelon Pineapple Salsa

Salsa very well may be one of my favorite food groups. Salsa is amazing on chips, fresh vegetables, a delicious topping on fish, chicken and steak. Salsa is very easy to make at home and so it’s easy to customize. For this fresh salsa recipe I used some of my favorite fruits and vegetables, diced them up and served in them in this beautiful pineapple bowl.

This fresh watermelon pineapple salsa is sweet, tangy and it has a bit of heat thanks to that jalapeno. Overall, it’s incredibly refreshing and absolutely delicious.

As an added benefit, this fresh spicy watermelon pineapple salsa is very healthy, if you follow Weight Watchers, you will be happy to know that this recipe is zero WW points. It’s also gluten free, dairy free and calorie free.

So how do you mix up this healthy rainbow of color? With just six fresh ingredients, a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a dash of salt and pepper.

Do you want to the best part of making this fresh watermelon pineapple salsa? When you make it, you are actually helping to donate to your local food banks. How is that possible? I am not saying you have to buy anything extra and you don’t have to drop anything off to the food bank, you simply just have to purchase the ingredients for this recipe and other produce that you normally would at your local Publix. Be sure to look for these brands:

These brands have partnered to give back to Feeding America Food Banks in the Publix shopping area and they will give back to those facing hunger. The only thing you have to do is purchase the items you normally would. Produce For Kids, Publix and these amazing brands will handle the rest.

Ok, let’s get to how you make my fresh pineapple salsa. The flavors in this salsa will impress everyone, but that pineapple bowl…isn’t that beautiful? Now, you don’t have to serve your pineapple salsa in a pineapple bowl, but it sure looks pretty! And it’s actually really easy to do. But I know it looks like it could be slightly intimidating so I thought I would give you the steps to creating your own pineapple bowl for serving this homemade watermelon pineapple salsa.

How To Make Pineapple Bowls:

Using a large knife cut the pineapple lengthwise and through the crown into 2 halves. If one half is bigger than the other, that’s okay. I ended up cutting off a 1/3 of mine so I had a bigger serving bowl.
Use a small knife and cut around the edge of the pineapple leaving about 1/2 inch of the outside of the pineapple.
Cut down both sides of the core at a slight angle then remove the core.
Slice the pineapple into chunks.
Use a large serving spoon, scoop out the pineapple chunks. Don’t waste any juice that’s left, feel free to drink it!

Now that you have your pineapple bowl ready for serving and fresh pineapple ready for dicing, let’s grab the other ingredients.

You will need these 7 ingredients to make your sweet and spicy watermelon and pineapple salsa:

Fresh Pineapple
Jalapeno
Watermelon
Tomato
RealSweet Onion
Cilantro
Lime

Now, here is my Sweet and Spicy Watermelon Pineapple Salsa recipe. Be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make it again and again.

Print Recipe

Fresh Watermelon Pineapple Salsa

This fresh salsa is a tasty mix of sweet and spicy. Made with fresh fruits and vegetables and a hint of lime and cilantro, this easy recipe is a must try.

Prep Time15

Chilling Time1

Course: Appetizer, Appetizer | Condiment

Keyword: easy appetizer, easy recipe, jalapeno, pineapple, salsa, spicy, sweet, watermelon, weight watchers

Author: Tracy

Ingredients

1 jalapeno pepper - diced seeds removed
1 whole pineapple
1 cup diced watermelon
½ cup RealSweet Sweet Onion - diced
¼ cup fresh cilantro - diced
1 Coast Tropical lime
½ cup diced Village tomatoes

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Using a large knife cut the pineapple through the crown lengthwise into 2 halves, it's okay if one half is bigger than the other.
Use a small knife and cut around the edge of the pineapple leaving about 1/2” of the outside of the pineapple.
Next, remove center core by cutting down both sides of the core at a slight angle.
Remove the center core of the pineapple.
Slice the pineapple into large chunks.
Using a large spoon scoop out the pineapple.
Dice the pineapple until you have one cup. Save the rest of the pineapple for a snack or dessert!
In a medium bowl add the diced pineapple, watermelon, onion, tomatoes, jalapeno and cilantro.
Zest half of a lime.
Add the zest to the salsa mixture.
Add juice from half the lime.
Season with a dash of salt and pepper.
Stir well.
Fill your pineapple boat with your fresh salsa.
Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour or until ready to serve.
Enjoy on fresh vegetables, chips or as a topping to chicken, shrimp, fish, steak...oh my!

Notes

By purchasing the brands listed above from Publix you are actually helping to donate to your local Feeding America Food Bank. Look for Produce for Kids signage in the produce department at Publix between now and August 12 to support the participating brands giving back to your local food banks.

I hope you enjoy this Watermelon Pineapple Salsa as much as we do!

We enjoyed this fresh salsa on freshly sliced Lakeside Produce Cucumbers, Sunset Bell Peppers and tortilla chips. It would also add a healthy dose of flavor to seafood, chicken and even steak.

How long will this fresh salsa stay good for?

You can refrigerate your fresh salsa for up to 5 days. However, I bet it will get eaten long before that!

Looking for another delicious recipe?

Join the Produce for Kids Facebook Live Cooking Class on July 22 to make a healthy lunch with your family. Download the shopping list for the class at www.produceforkids.com/publix. In fact, my sweet and spicy watermelon pineapple salsa would be incredible on the burgers they will be making 😉

Be sure to check out ProduceForKids.com for more than 450 registered dietitian-approved and family-tested recipes, meal planning tools, grocery store specific campaign details, and healthy tips from real parents and on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest for even more!

And don’t forget to check out all the delicious recipes on Food Wine Sunshine and follow on me Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

Top Family Outdoor Activities In Mount Dora

July 16th, 2020February 6th, 2023

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Visit Lake County, FL. All opinions are 100% mine.

Looking for a family outdoor adventure? Discover Real Florida. Real Close. See why you should Visit Mount Dora in Lake County, FL for family fun.

Top Family Outdoor Activities In Mount Dora, Florida

When you think of things to do in Florida, you normally think beaches and theme parks, but there is so much more. So much more! When it comes to entertaining the kids, and the whole family, outdoors is by far the best option. There is so much available to do outside, especially in Florida. In fact, we have Real Florida. Real Close Real Florida? Yes, located only 30-minutes west of Orlando or an hour from Tampa there is the beauty of Lake County. Lake County is in Central Florida and offers a wide range of outdoor activities for families to enjoy. Since we are spending more times outdoors I am always looking for safe adventures, so last week we headed to Mount Dora in Lake County.

Lake County is The Perfect Distance Away. It took us about an hour and a half to get to Mount Dora from Land O Lakes. On our way we drove through Tavares, which is America’s Seaplane City, numerous parks, pristine lakes, fishing spots and gorgeous landscape.

Lake County is actually home to over 1,000 lakes and rivers, and we loved looking at all the boats, water sports and people fishing as we were driving. In fact, that’s exactly what inspired our outdoor adventures for the day.

Best Family Outdoor Activities In Mount Dora

We parked in the middle of Historic Mount Dora and walked down the quaint streets, passed several unique shops selling local handmade goods, the old railroad station, a bunch of adorable dining options and past the Lakeside Inn which is oldest continuously-operating hotel in the State of Florida to Premier Boat Tours.

Right behind the Lakeside Inn on Lake Dora is Premier Boat Tours, where the kids and I boarded a large pontoon boat to enjoy a 2-hour tour of Lake Dora and the Dora Canal.

We took our seats, which were socially distanced (they were blocked off to insure distancing from other guests) and started off on our narrated adventure with two outgoing captains.

As we cruised around Lake Dora, we were given a brief history of Mount Dora and the Harris Chain of Lakes, along with some silly jokes that kept us smiling. We stopped and saw bald eagles! Yes, there are bald eagles that have made their nest in one of the trees along Lake Dora! It was incredible to be able to see these majestic creatures in nature.

Best Outdoor Activities In Mount Dora Florida

We then traveled under the railway bridge in Tavares and entered the Dora Canal. The first portion of the canal was actually dug by hand and is the residential section, we saw colorful homes, a gnome garden and lots of birds. Just beyond the unique residential section we entered a Cypress Swamp.

Top Outdoor Activities In Mount Dora Florida

The captains let us know that the trees here are up to 3,000 years old! Through this portion of the “jungle cruise” we saw beautiful trees that are the home for herons, egrets, anhingas, turtles and alligators. We saw many turtles sunning themselves and a few alligators hiding out waiting for their next meal.

Top Outdoor Activities In Lake County Florida

The trees were absolutely awe-inspiring. Seeing trees that are thousands of years old was just beautiful. I think I took over 50 pictures of just the trees! The thick trunks, the cypress knees coming out of the water, the blue sky peeking in down the canal. It was just serene.

Best Outdoor Activities In Lake County Florida

Once we got off the Premier Boat Tours pontoon boat we were starving, so we headed to the Olive Branch for lunch. We enjoyed the outdoor seating while eating out gyros and perfectly cooked french fries.

Outdoor Activities In Lake County Florida

We had to walk off our delicious lunch, so we visited a few of the local shops. I bought earrings made from cork, how could I possibly resist with my love of wine?! I also spoiled us with some handmade soaps and spices.

Once the kids kindly let me know that they were done shopping (as kids do) we headed down to the public docks by the Mount Dora Yacht Club and did some fishing. We actually brought our own poles but there are quite a few fishing charter options available in Lake County. With over 1,000 lakes here, even the pro-fishermen come to fish the Harris Chain of Lakes. We love watching the Florida fishing shows on TV and my son was pretty excited to see where pros fish, the Harris Chain of Lakes is one of the country’s top bass fishing destinations and hosts a lot of professional tournaments and championship events. With seven of the top 11 lakes for bass in Florida, Lake County is the place to catch your trophy fish. The nine Harris Chain of lakes total approximately 76,000 acres. You will find Bass, Crappie, Catfish, Shellcracker, Sunshine Bass, Gar, and Bluegill in the pristine waters of the Harris Chain of lakes. The kids were excited to cast their lines in hopes to catch a big bass.

Best Things To Do In Lake County Florida

The kids fished for a few hours, it was the perfect afternoon.

We even saw 4 gators swimming around, thankfully they didn’t take the kids’ fish 😉

After fishing, the kids were hungry again…of course…so we headed to one of the nostalgic ice cream shops and treated ourselves to a some ice cream. I got a root beer float and the kids got waffle cones with their favorite flavors (cookie monster and salted caramel). We sat outside and enjoyed our ice creams before we started the easy drive back home.

We spent the whole day exploring Mount Dora, and there are many things to do, so I thought I would point out all the fun outdoor activities to do in Mount Dora. As you can see, there is something for everyone. And if you decide to spend more than one day, there are quite a few adorable inns to stay at, but the Lakeside Inn is the absolutely beautiful and you can’t beat the view of Lake Dora!

Things To Do In Mount Dora

Go For A Walk – Simple walks can be entertaining for the whole if you turn them into discovery games. There is so much history in this charming, one-hundred plus year old village in the heart of Central Florida. There are also trails for hiking, such as the Mount Dora Trail, if you want to get a bit more adventurous.

Shop – Shops in and around Mount Dora’s downtown area are full of nostalgic items, valuable antiques and collectibles, and homemade gifts.

Eat – There is a variety of places to eat in Mount Dora that are unique and have plenty of outdoor seating. There are also waterfront parks filled with oak trees that are the perfect places to enjoy a picnic. When planning your picnic, be sure to get the kids involved. The children can help in making the sandwiches etc. and when you get there, they will enjoy playing a simple eye spy game while eating.

Go For A Bike Ride – Bike riding is something that most families enjoy. You do not have to go far a little ride with lots to see is great fun and can also be educational. You can time how long it takes you, make a note of how many birds you see, cars, people, boats or whatever there is around you and then the outside fun continues when you get home, and they can write about what they saw. Mount Dora has plenty of trails to bike on and explore, and if you don’t want to bring your bike, there are places where you can rent a bike.

Go To A Festival – You will also find plenty of garden shows to enjoy. Mount Dora has a lot of festivals including one of the country’s top art festivals, the Mount Dora Art Festival. You can make these even more exciting for kids by giving them things to find like a discovery game while you are exploring.

Visit The Farmer’s Market – The open air Mount Dora Village market is the perfect place to shop for the freshest fruits and vegetables. This is also a wonderful opportunity to talk to the kids about gardening veggies and planting flowers. A garden takes time and care, a little each day. From weeding to watering to harvesting, a garden can provide an opportunity for activity while teaching nurturing and responsibility to kids.

Go For A Boat Tour – We loved the boat tour! It was an unique way to learn a bit about the history of Mount Dora and get a boat ride. Who doesn’t love a boat ride?

Go Fishing – Bring a fishing rod with you and fish off of one of the many public docks or at one of the parks. You can also rent a fishing charter where a guide will help you find all the fishing hot spots. This is definitely on my kids’ wish list, so we will be headed back soon.

Enjoy Birding – There are plenty of places for you to get outside and enjoy bird-watching.

Play Some Sports – Bring a ball with you and let the kids play at one several of the parks in Mount Dora, and be sure to stay for the sunset. Mount Dora also has two Disc Golf Courses if you want to try something new!

Summer break isn’t an excuse for kids to spend hours watching television, playing video games or being on their phones. Set a time limit for each per day for these activities, in fact if you plan an outdoor adventure, you will be surprised by the fact that they don’t even miss technology. Lake County is the Perfect Distance Away for your next outdoor adventure. Mount Dora is just one of the towns filled with fun outdoor activities in Lake County, other fun spots for outdoor adventures are Clermont, Leesburg, Tavares and Eustis. Plan your Lake County adventure.

Even though Lake County is an easy drive from I-4, Florida’s Turnpike, US-27, and US-441 if you want to extend your day trip to an overnight stay or a weekend away, there are plenty of charming places to stay. Find a Place to Stay

Have you been to Mount Dora? What is one of your favorite things to do in Mount Dora?

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Homemade Blueberry Pancakes

July 14th, 2020November 17th, 2025

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Delicious homemade blueberry pancakes made from scratch with fresh blueberries. Learn tips to cook them perfectly, boost their nutrition, and enjoy a healthier, antioxidant-rich breakfast.

Homemade Blueberry Pancakes

Making pancakes from scratch is actually pretty easy. In fact, if you knew just how easy it was, you may never buy store bought again! And that is precisely what we are going to chat about today, how you can make incredible homemade blueberry pancakes. These homemade pancakes are my husband’s favorite. And I love that they are ready in under 10 minutes! Easy breakfast recipes are a weekend savoir in my house. Who wants to wake up extra early and slave in the kitchen?! Not this momma! Good news is that when I make these pancakes I get compliments from my crew…they don’t have to know that I made them in just a few minutes, right??

Stack of fluffy blueberry pancakes on a white plate drizzled with syrup and extra berries

The fresh blueberries in the homemade pancakes are an explosion of flavor when you bit into them. I just love blueberries! These beautiful little berries not only taste amazing, but they are known as the king of antioxidants. Blueberries are also packed with potassium and vitamin C. So, not only will your homemade blueberry pancakes taste absolutely amazing, but they are even good for you 😉

I did add ground flax seed to my pancake batter, I did that for the extra nutrients, if you don’t have ground flax seed or if you would prefer to leave that step out, you definitely can, it won’t affect the taste of your pancakes. I am all about adding in a boost of healthy stuff when I can…especially if my husband and kids can’t tell the difference 😉

White plate filled with blueberry pancakes and blueberries

The Health Power of Blueberries in Your Pancakes

Blueberries are more than just a burst of sweet flavor in your pancakes — they’re packed with powerful nutrients. These little berries are loaded with antioxidants called anthocyanins, which help fight inflammation and protect your cells. On top of that, blueberries offer fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K, contributing to a healthy immune system and digestive health. By stirring fresh or frozen blueberries into your pancake batter, you’re not only making breakfast more delicious — you’re boosting the nutritional value of the meal in a simple, family-friendly way.

Close-up of blueberry pancakes on a white plate with syrup glistening over fresh berries

Smart Tips for Making the Best Homemade Blueberry Pancakes

Use the Right Heat: Cook your pancakes over medium heat so they brown beautifully without burning, and the blueberries stay juicy.
Fold in the Berries Last: To prevent the blueberries from bursting too early and coloring the batter blue, gently fold them in once the batter is mostly mixed.
Customize Your Whole Grain Swap: For a heartier version, try using part whole wheat flour. It adds fiber and gives a slightly nuttier flavor.
Go Lighter on Syrup: Instead of drowning your pancakes in syrup, drizzle a little real maple syrup or top them with a handful of extra fresh blueberries.
Make-Ahead-Friendly: Whip up a double batch of pancake batter, then refrigerate it overnight. It’s a great time-saver for busy mornings – just stir and cook.

Now that your hungry, let’s get to my homemade blueberry pancakes recipe. Be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make them again and again.

Print Recipe

Blueberry Pancakes From Scratch

There is nothing quite like homemade pancakes topped with fresh blueberries. Oh and don't forget to add some berries in the batter!

Prep Time5

Cook Time5

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Keyword: blueberries, breakfast, easy recipe, homemade, pancakes

Servings: pancakes

Calories: 87kcal

Author: Tracy

Equipment

Stove or Griddle

Ingredients

1 cup flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
dash salt
1 tbsp ground flax seed
½ tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp butter melted
1 egg
1 cup milk – I used skim
½ cup fresh blueberries

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

In a medium bowl combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground flax seed, and cinnamon.
Mix well.
Add melted butter, egg, and milk and mix until batter forms.
Gently fold in blueberries.
Spoon batter onto a hot skillet and cook until bubbles start to form.
Then flip and cook a little longer until golden brown.
Serve with favorite toppings and extra blueberries!
Enjoy!

Notes

I added in the ground flax seed for the extra nutrients, you can easily leave that out if you prefer. It will not affect the taste of your pancakes.

You can add protein powder to the pancake mix if you would like an extra boost of protein. A general guideline is to add one scoop of protein powder (20-25 grams) per cup of dry mix and gradually stir it in. If the batter is too thick, add more liquid and whisk well.

Nutrition

Why You’ll Love These Homemade Blueberry Pancakes

They’re incredibly fluffy and flavorful. Every bite is soft, light, and filled with juicy bursts of fresh blueberries.
Made with simple, everyday ingredients. No special trips to the store – just pantry staples and fresh blueberries.
Family-approved and kid-friendly. These pancakes are always a hit with little ones and adults alike.
Perfect for weekends or busy mornings. Mix the batter in minutes and cook as many (or as few!) as you need.
Easily customizable. Add lemon zest, swap in buttermilk, or fold in extra blueberries… make them your own!
Freezer-friendly. Make a double batch and freeze leftovers for quick, homemade breakfasts all week long.

Blueberry pancakes arranged on a white plate with scattered berries

These homemade blueberry pancakes prove just how easy it is to turn simple ingredients into something special. They’re fluffy, full of berry flavor, and perfect for everything from busy weekdays to lazy Sunday brunch. Serve them with fresh blueberries, a drizzle of syrup, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra boost of protein.

If you love blueberry recipes or just enjoy a wholesome, comforting breakfast, save this one – it’s a keeper. And don’t forget: the batter can easily be doubled so you can freeze extra pancakes for quick, homemade breakfasts anytime. However you serve them, these blueberry pancakes are sure to bring smiles to the table.

Have you made pancakes from scratch before? What is your favorite pancake topping?

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Orange Blossom Cocktail

July 13th, 2020March 9th, 2021

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Simple and delicious this Orange Blossom Gin Cocktail packs a punch. Grab the easy cocktail recipe and sit back and enjoy. Cheers!

Orange Blossom Cocktail

Fruity and cooling with a considerable alcoholic hit makes the Orange Blossom Cocktail the perfect accompaniment to the dress-down summer picnic, poolside barbecue or any day that you need a delicious cocktail. Made popular back in Prohibition days, because it’s so easy to make, this gin cocktail is simply gin and orange juice. The Orange Blossom is very similar to a Screwdriver, except made with gin and a splash of simple syrup. The Screwdriver is made with vodka. The splash of simple syrup sweetness up this cocktail just a little bit.

Doesn’t that look refreshing? I thought so. So, let’s start making your cocktail, shall we?

Orange Blossom Cocktail Ingredients:
Ice cubes
Gin
Orange juice
Simple syrup
Orange slice for garnish

To make an Orange Blossom Cocktail:
I drink mine with ice in the glass, as this cocktail has equal amounts of alcohol and OJ, the melted ice is a happy balance for me 😉
If you prefer to not have the ice, fill a shaker with ice cubes add in the ingredients, shake vigorously and then strain into your favorite cocktail glass. Garnish with orange slice.

Now, here is my Orange Blossom Gin Cocktail recipe, be sure to Print It and Pin It so you can make it again and again.

Print Recipe

Orange Blossom Gin Cocktail

This simple mixture of gin and orange juice is fruity and perfect for sipping all summer long and beyond.

Prep Time2

Course: Cocktail

Keyword: alcohol, cocktails, drinks, gin

Servings:

Author: Tracy

Ingredients

2 oz gin
2 oz orange juice
½ tsp simple syrup
ice cubes
1 orange slice

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Fill your favorite cocktail glass with orange
Pour in the gin, orange juice and simple syrup
Stir gently
Garnish with orange slice(s)
Enjoy
Cheers!

Notes

If you prefer not to have ice in your drink, you will prepare this gin cocktail in a cocktail shaker.

Fill a shaker about half way with ice cubes
Add the simple syrup then pour in the gin and orange juice
Shake vigorously then strain into a cocktail glass
Garnish with orange slice

I hope you enjoy this Orange Blossom Cocktail as much as I do!

Do you like gin? What is one of your favorite gin cocktails?

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Why Does Wine Give You A Headache?

July 9th, 2020September 3rd, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Ever wonder Why Does Wine Give You A Headache? There actually may be a few reasons behind it. So grab a glass of wine and let’s find out!

Why Does Wine Give You A Headache?

Have you ever been in the middle of a great night of wine drinking when you’re suddenly slammed with an ungodly headache? If so, you are not alone. Many people suffer from headaches when they drink wine. The good news is that nothing is wrong with the people who get wine headaches. The problem lies within the wine itself.

For over 20 years, the common belief was that sulfites (the liquid form of sulfur dioxide) were the wine headache culprit. However, a study published in The New York Times disproved that theory. The article proved that the only people who get headaches from excess amounts of sulfite are the people who are allergic to sulfites. Since allergic reactions come with many more symptoms, the sulfite theory is now a moot proposal.

A more promising notion is the idea that histamines cause wine headaches. Histamines are found in nearly every kind of food and plant, and they are very common in anything that has been fermented. When people are affected by histamines, it is not uncommon for their blood vessels to either contract or expands.

If that happens in the head, an instant headache will appear. Since wine is certainly fermented and histamines are undoubtedly present, it would not be a far stretch to assume that wines with more histamines are responsible for those horrible headaches.

A final and very convincing theory is that tannins are the secret ingredient to wine headaches. Tannins are found in the seeds and skins of grapes, and we all know where the wine comes from. When tannins enter the bloodstream, they can trigger a large release of serotonin. That release may lead to an initially happy feeling, but it can also lead to a monstrous headache. This is especially true for people who suffer from frequent headaches and migraines, to begin with.

The definitive reason behind wine headaches is still a bit of a mystery, but scientists are working hard to discover the real cause. Tannins, histamines, or sulfites could be headache triggers, or maybe all three can trigger headaches in different people. Unfortunately, every chemical we can potentially blame is based on nothing more than an educated assumption.

So if you are affected by wine headaches, the best thing for you to do is to make some educated guesses of your own. Try different wines in small quantities and see how your body reacts.

If you drink a glass of wine full of histamines and get a headache twenty minutes later, it is probably safe to say that you should stay away from wines with histamines. The same rule applies if you experience a problem with a wine that contains a lot of sulfites or tannins.

Just use your best judgment and drink up. After all, it is in the name of science!

Have you ever gotten a headache from drinking wine?

Be sure to check out Food Wine Sunshine on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for more wine tips, cocktails, healthy recipes, and fun things to do.

Why It’s Important To Save For College

July 8th, 2020January 25th, 2021

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Have you ever really wondered Why It’s Important To Save For College? I have some great thoughts from kids of all ages, plus some great resources to help answer that question. This post is sponsored by Florida Prepaid College Plans, through my role as a Believer Blogger. All thoughts are my own.

Why It’s Important To Save For College

There have been a lot of things happening in the world lately, and I don’t know about you, I am looking forward to brighter days ahead. My whole family is. My friends are. I think we all are!

My kids are looking forward to seeing their friends at school, they are looking forward to a regular schedule again, I think they are even looking forward to waking up early and getting ready for school. My son will start his sophomore year of high school next year, and that means he will be in college in just two short years. Thinking about going back to school and our quickly approaching college years, I almost immediately think about the upcoming financial responsibilities that come with him starting college. Thankfully we started saving for college for him when he was just 6 months old.

But did you know you can actually start saving for college at anytime? Today, tomorrow…any day. And did you know that you can start saving for college with any amount that you would like? In fact, right now when you open a Florida 529 Savings Plan now through August 16, Florida Prepaid will put $25 into your account. Set up an automatic monthly contribution of $25 or more, and they’ll add another $25. That means you are getting a free $50! And there are absolutely ZERO fees to open a Florida 529 Savings Plan. Sounds like the perfect time to start saving for college doesn’t it?

As parents, I think we understand why it’s important to save for college. For starters, it helps secure our child’s educational future, it helps reduce future debt, it gives us financial peace of mind, it’s one less thing to worry about, I could go on and on…But what do kids think about saving for college? Do kids think it’s important to save for college? Well, I decided to find out.

I interviewed some friends and family members why they thought saving for college was important and I wanted to share their answers. It was actually interesting because I don’t think it’s something that kids think about regularly, but I know it’s something that parents are always thinking about.

Question: Why do you think it’s important to save for college?

Emily (age 16) So you can decrease your student loan debt coming out of college.

Steven (age 15) So you can have a good future and live a good life.

Molly (age 13) I think it’s important to save for college because then you can have a good education and it will help you to be prepared in life.

Ava (age 12) I think it is important to save for college because it secures your future. College will give me a platform to launch my career, ensuring that going to college will happen is extremely important.

Sadie (age 12) So when you get into college you can pay for textbooks and things you may need.

Teagan (age 3) I don’t know!

As you can see, each answer was a bit different. However, most of them understood that college costs money and that college helps them prepare for their future. Enrolling in a Florida 529 Savings Plan can help you save for your child’s future.

Here are A Few Things To Know Before Opening a Florida 529 Savings Plan:

You can open a Florida 529 Savings Plan for free. There is no application fee or minimum contribution to get started.
There is no open enrollment period, you can open a Florida 529 Savings Plan whenever you are ready.
Florida Prepaid is running an exciting promotion now through August 16 where you can receive up to $50 in your account for free. All you have to do is open a Florida 529 Savings Plan with $25 and Florida Prepaid will put $25 into your account. Set up an automatic monthly contribution of $25 or more, and they’ll add another $25.
The Florida 529 Savings Plan allows you to create your own plan to save for college and K-12 education. You get to choose how you want to invest your savings using the investment options offered by the plan. Florida Prepaid has 14 investment options available, such as; predesigned age-based portfolio, predesigned static portfolios, and a suite of individual investment funds, which cover a broad spectrum of asset classes.
You can lose money that you have invested, unlike a Florida Prepaid College Plan, the degree of risk varies based on the investment options selected.
Earnings are tax-free when used for qualified higher education expenses.
You use your savings to pay for actual costs of college or K-12 education at any time.
You can contribute to your Florida 529 Savings Plan as often as you would like, with any amount that you would like. You can make your contributions online, via mail or with automatic payroll deduction with a participating employer.
The plan can be used nationwide. So, if you child decided to go to a college or university outside of Florida, they can still use the funds from the 529 Plan.
There is no set time period for using the plan, and it can be transferred at any time to an individual 18 years of age or older and a U.S. citizen or legal U.S. resident.

Learn more about Florida 529 Savings Plans

There is also a FREE webinar on July 23, 2020 at 12:00 pm EST to learn how a 529 Savings Plan can cover all the other college expenses like housing, books.

Register for the free 10-min webinar

You can reach out to Florida Prepaid College Plans with any questions, the Florida Prepaid College Board customer service number is 1-800-552-4723.

Don’t forget to take advantage of the current Florida 529 Savings Plan promotion where you will receive $25 in your account for free when you open a Florida 529 Savings Plan with just $25. Set up an automatic monthly contribution of $25 or more, and they’ll add another $25.

Open a Florida 529 Savings Plan

Feel free to print this Free Frequently Asked Questions Printable to help answer any additional questions that may pop up when thinking about opening a Florida 529 Savings Plan. Or as your reminder to open one when you can 🙂

So, Why Do You Think It’s Important To Save For College?

Learn more about Florida Prepaid College Plans online and feel free to follow Florida Prepaid College Plans on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube to stay up to date with information on Open Enrollment but get tips on college and more.

Be sure to follow Food Wine Sunshine on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for more helpful tips, things to do in Florida, and family fun.

Best Bunless Burger Bites

July 7th, 2020January 20th, 2021

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

These low carb burger bites are ready to serve in about 25 minutes. This easy appetizer recipe is a definite crowd-pleaser. I am a proud CK Mondavi and Family Ambassador, while this post is sponsored, all opinions and the recipe are my own.

Low Carb Bunless Burger Bites

We are all spending a bit more time outdoors lately, not only because it’s summer but because to make sure we can still have fun with family and friends, but socially distanced as well. One of the things we have been doing more of as a family and with our close friends is playing outdoor games. We love playing cornhole and bocce ball, how about you all?

My sister-in-law actually made our cornhole set, it’s actually easier than you think! You just need to make sure you make it with thick enough wood so the bags don’t bounce too much and you add a coat of polyurethane as a top coat so the bags slide good…but not too good 😉

If you don’t want to make yours, you can find cornhole sets at just about every superstore and online. We even have a small set in our camper so that we can play while we are camping 🙂

Bocce ball is great too because you just need your favorite bocce ball set and some open land. And some friends to play with!

We all know that playing games is a bit more fun when there are adult beverages involved 😉 And since you all know me, you know that my beverage of choice is almost always a glass of wine. With summer here and the temperatures a bit higher, I wanted to share some of my favorite summer drinking wines. I do recommend drinking them nice and cold, after all it’s hot outside. If you are outside playing for awhile, you may notice that your wine will heat up quickly, so if you really want to, add in an ice cube or two. GASP! I know, I know. MAJOR wine drinking no-no, right? I know. But if you are outside having fun with friends and playing games, the only real no-no is not having enough wine 😉 So, if you need to cool your wine down just that much more, I’ll allow it…this time.

Here are a few of the wines I am enjoying this summer:

CK Mondavi and Family Sauvignon Blanc

The reason I like CK Mondavi and Family Sauvignon Blanc is that for the price point it is very true to the varietal. Sauvignon Blanc is known for it’s fruit flavors and this one is spot on. You will taste green apple to apricot from the moment it hits your tongue. This wine is drinkable from the moment you grab it at the grocery store, but I recommend serving it nice and cold.

CK Mondavi and Family Pinot Grigio

Pinot Grigio is a simple, crisp and clean wine. Served cold, it’s refreshing and you can catch tasting notes of fresh mint. Did you do that Pinot Grigio is actually from a red grape? Yep! The winemakers have to work extra hard to get Pinot Grigio to be a white wine. Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with fruit because the fresh flavors don’t overpower the delicateness of the fruit.

CK Mondavi and Family Merlot

Yep. I just mentioned a red wine in the summer. And not just any red wine, Merlot. Merlot is actually one of the major red wine varieties in California besides Cabernet Sauvignon. You will find ripe cherries in the nose when you first smell this easy-drinking red wine which actually makes it perfect for making sangria. The CK Mondavi and Family Merlot is aged in French Oak for 2 – 3 months giving it a nice balance with just a hint of oak and vanilla flavors. It has a good tannin balance which makes it friendly on the palette, again making it a nice option for a summer red wine. Overall the CK Mondavi and Family Merlot soft and velvety, and if you put an ice cube or two in it while you are out playing lawn games, I won’t tell.

Now that we have the games and the wines down for this summer, what about some eats?? For playing outside with friends and family, I recommend easy finger foods. Single servings. Easy to pick up and easy to enjoy. And when I think of summer, I think of burgers.

So, I made bunless burger bites. And as an added bonus, since there is no bun, my mini burger bites are also low carb, gluten free and keto-friendly.

It’s actually pretty easy to make these mini bunless burger bites, which is good since you want to be spending your time in the backyard playing games and not in the kitchen.

Ready to eat? Me too. Here is my bunless burger bites recipe, be sure to Print It and Pin It so you can make it again and again.

Print Recipe

5 from 3 votes

The Best Bunless Burger Bites

These mini burger bites are the perfect appetizer for summer and all year! Ready in under 25 minutes, you will have plenty of time to enjoy the day and not be stuck in the kitchen.

Prep Time10

Cook Time11

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Keyword: bacon, burger, easy appetizer, easy recipes, gluten free, keto, low carb

Servings: burger bites

Calories: 64kcal

Author: Tracy

Equipment

Stove
Oven

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef I used ground sirlon
1 pinch salt
1 pinch pepper
1 clove garlic minced
1 tsp your favorite all purpose seasoning - I used DUST by VooDoo Chef
6 slices cooked bacon
24 small squares of cheese I used pepper jack
24 pickle chips
12 grape tomatoes - cut in half
1 cup lettuce just enough to put a small piece on each burger bite
Sauces for dipping. I used Jalapeno Mustard and Srircaha Sauce from Silver Spring Foods
24 large toothpicks are small bamboo skewers for serving

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°
Place the ground beef in a medium bowl.
Add the garlic and seasonings.
Using your hands work in the seasonings and garlic into the ground beef. Be careful to not over work the meat.
Form mini burgers, I rolled them like I was making meatballs and then flattened them just a tad so the shape was more like a burger.
Place the mini burgers on a plate until all are formed.
In a large skillet, drizzle a small amount of olive oil over medium meat.
Add your mini burgers. Brown each side of your burger. This will take about 2 - 3 minutes per side.
While the burgers are cooking, cook your bacon if you haven't yet.
Once the burgers are browned on each side, put the whole pan into the preheated oven (make sure your pan can go into the oven, if not, transfer the burgers to a cookie sheet).
Bake the burgers for 3 - 5 minutes until cooked throughout.
When the burgers are done, it's time to assemble your burger bites.
Place one piece of cheese, one piece of lettuce, one small sqaure of bacon, one pickle, and a half of tomato on top of each mini burger.
Hold each one together with a large tooth pick or mini bamboo skewers.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauces and CK Mondavi and Family Wines.
Enjoy!