Blog - Sweet Life

Shrimp Pico Rice Skillet

A twist on a Texas favorite, made with succulent shrimp, spicy jalapeños and rice, my Shrimp Pico Rice Skillet is a homage to my South Texas roots. This one-skillet dish starts off on the stove-top and is completed in the oven, served warm with plenty of fresh lime juice. Today I am excited to partner with Mahatma Rice to share with you a recipe for shrimp pico rice skillet that is sure to be your go-to summer meal. Rice is one of my go-to essential pantry ingredients. Not only is it budget-friendly, it can be used in countless ways to… Read More

The Careless Whisper Cocktail {Inspired by George Michael}

If you follow me on Instagram you well know my obsession with George Michael. I ADORE him. I recently threw myself the most fabulous George Michael Birthday party a few years ago and had everyone invited come dressed as one of his videos. BEST BIRTHDAY EVER! People often ask me why I love him so, and I always respond, his music helped me through a weird/awkward/ uneasy eight grade. Today I want to share the cocktail I served for my George Michael themed birthday party, it’s called The Careless Whisper. It’s vibrant, smooth and sweet – Just like mi adorable… Read More

Carne Guisada

Carne Guisada has been a in my life for as long as I can remember. My mami made it when friends came over it. She made it on Sunday while she did laundry. It would slowly cook on the stove-top as she sorted- folded clothes at the kitchen table. I’m excited to partner with Beef Loving Texans to celebrate the role beef plays in raising up the next generation of Texans. Thick cuts of meat stewed until tender in a rich gravy served with rice and beans and plenty of flour tortillas has always been part… Read More

Creamy Arroz Verde

A creamy rice dish made with fresh tomatillos, cilantro, lime juice and plenty of shredded cheese, then baked until bubbly—this is one of my favorite weekday meals. Today I am excited to partner with Mahatma Rice to share with you a recipe for creamy arroz verde that is sure to be a hit with your family. Rice is one of my go-to essential pantry ingredients. Not only is it budget-friendly, it can be used in countless ways to create fancy dishes for dinner parties or comfort dishes for daily family dinners—the options are endless. You can make it creamy or… Read More

Sparkling Strawberry Rosé Sangria

My Sparkling Strawberry Rosé Sangria is made with a combination of fresh strawberries, lemons, lemonade, Llano Signature Rosé and topped with sparkling water. National Wine Day is May 25! Let’s celebrate by making a pitcher of delicious Sparkling Strawberry Rosé Sangria. I’m a huge fan of Rosé, with its light, fresh fruity flavor I find myself gravitating towards it whenever I entertain, plus it adds a festive splash to my festivities. I love wine, so naturally, sangria is one of my go-to fiesta cocktails. It’s so easy to make for a crowd. Light and refreshing for hot summer days…. Read More

Mini Ruby Red Grapefruit Cupcakes

Sweet and citrusy, these mini ruby red grapefruit cupcakes are made with a flecked ruby red grapefruit zest batter and topped with a rich ruby red grapefruit cream cheese frosting. I am a HUGE fan of ruby red grapefruits. I look forward these ruby red gems every year and scoop them up by the basketful. Halved with a light sprinkle of sugar they are delicious for breakfast of late afternoon snack, spoons of sugary tartness – so good. Not everyone in my home is a fan of ruby reds, which leads me to find creative ways to sneak in… Read More

Coconut Horchata Iced Coffee

Coconut Horchata Iced Coffee! For my coffee lovers out there have, this homemade Coconut Horchata iced coffee is absolutely delicious, simple to make and is the perfect afternoon recharge. I adore homemade horchata. Horchata (pronounced or-CHAH-tah) is a Mexican drink made with rice. Flavored with cinnamon, sugar or nuts and seeds this creamy beverage is popular served over ice in summer. Horchata is a dreamy, creamy rice-based Mexican drink that is can be found in any taqueria here in South Texas. South Texans drink gallons and gallons of Horchata throughout the year, but in Summertime it is especially popular. We… Read More

Blackberry Lime Mocktail

This blackberry lime mocktail is refreshing, tangy and can easily be transformed into a cocktail with a splash of rum or vodka. When I entertain family or friends, I always like to have a mocktail on-hand for my guests. A few weeks ago, we hosted a small brunch where I set-up a beautiful mimosa bar. I made a blackberry-lime syrup that I topped with champagne. Next, to the champagne bucket, I placed another champagne bucket filled with sparkling mineral water so guests could choose a mimosa or mocktail. I simmered fresh blackberries with sugar, and plenty of fresh lime juice… Read More