Black and White Sugar Cookies

Find a pack of your favorite sugar cookie dough or make it from scratch if you have the skills. Roll the dough out until it is around 1/8 inch thick, then cut out two-inch round sections. Place them in the refrigerator and allow them to chill for 30 minutes.

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees or the recommended temperature on the cookie packet. Bake the cookie dough in the oven for eight to 10 minutes or until they are golden brown, then let them cool. Spread chocolate frosting on one half and vanilla frosting on the other. Add some red and green sprinkles to make them more festive!

Cocoa and Peppermint Cookies

Start with a roll of your favorite refrigerated cookie dough, three tablespoons of unsweetened baking cocoa, a cup of marshmallow crème. Crush up enough peppermint candy until you have enough to fill a 1/3 cup.

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Break the cookie dough apart in a bowl, then knead in the cocoa until it is mixed in completely. Create 1 ½ inch balls with the dough and place them on an ungreased cookie sheet. Flatten them by pressing down slightly with your fingers. Bake for 10 to 13 minutes, then allow them to cool for two minutes.

Place the marshmallow crème in a cup and microwave it on 50 percent until melted. Let it cool, then place the mixture in a plastic bag. Drizzle the marshmallow mix on the cookies, then top with the crushed peppermint candy. Refrigerate the cookies for another 30 minutes before serving.

Snowball Cookies

Make sure you have a pack of your favorite sugar cookie dough, ¼ cup of flour, ½ teaspoon of vanilla, and some powdered sugar on hand. Heat your oven to 350 degrees and break up your cookie dough in a large bowl. Mix in the flour and sugar.

Make 54 1-inch dough balls and place then one inch apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake them for 10 to 14 minutes, then take them off the cookie sheet to cool. Roll the warm cookies in your powdered sugar several times, letting them cool for a few minutes more each time.

We hope you enjoy these Christmas cookie recipes and if you're looking for apartments in Chicago, IL. give us a call at (866) 473-1997.

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Decide on Mutual Ingredients

The easiest way to make once-a-week cooking work well for you is by selecting meals that will have similar ingredients. This allows you to prepare most of one ingredient at one time, such as chicken, broccoli or rice. Cook those foods at once; then split them into individual meals to season and package them.

Choose Your Recipes

Once you've decided which ingredients strike your fancy for the week, choose which recipes you're going to put into play. There are numerous food websites and recipe sites that have dedicated meal plans for once-a-week cooking, which makes the process much easier.

Time to Go Shopping

Now that you've selected your meal plan for the week, determine what ingredients you need to purchase and make a trip to your local grocery store to pick up the necessary ingredients. If you have sufficient space for ingredients, you could even shop for two or three weeks at a once.

Select a Time to Cook

What is your best time during the week to cook? Is it Saturday morning before your weekend activities take off? A lazy Sunday afternoon? Friday afternoon flex time at work? Whatever time works best for your schedule, prepare and package all of your foods for the week.

Use Other Appliances

Don't feel like you're stuck working with your stove as soon as you get home. Slow cookers and instant pots provide slow-cooking and pressure-cooking options. Wireless connectivity or delayed-start options make it easy to turn these appliances on at the right time for your needs so that dinner is ready when you walk in the door.

By implementing once-a-week cooking into your routine, you can easily stick to your healthy eating plans and avoid the eating-out and fast-food traps. Check out Chicago apartments like North Harbor Tower that features easy access to expressways, updated kitchens, and public barbeque areas to make this process even easier.

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Virgin Paloma

In this drink, the pairing of two delicious kinds of citrus creates an incredible flavor profile, unlike anything you have ever tasted. Get started by grabbing:

• 2 cups carbonated water
• 2 cups of grapefruit juice
• 2 cups lime juice
• 1 cup agave syrup

In a large pitcher, add the fruit juice and agave syrup and mix together. Then, pour in the carbonated water to complete this awesome beverage. If you are not going to enjoy this drink right away, delay adding the carbonated water until just before serving it. Otherwise, it could go flat. Pour over ice to elevate the tart flavors even more.

Lime Mint Cooler

When poured over ice, lime and mint can prove endlessly refreshing and amazingly delicious. To make this mocktail, gather up:

• 3 cups carbonated water
• 1 cup of coconut water
• 1 cup lime juice
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup mint leaves, chopped
• Several sprigs of whole mint leaves

Combine all the ingredients, with the exception of the whole mint leaves, in a large pitcher and stir well. Allow the mixture to chill for several hours so the flavors meld together. As you pour the mocktail into glasses filled with ice, use a strainer to remove the mint leaves. Garnish with a couple of fresh whole mint leaves before serving.

Lemongrass Iced Tea

• 4 cups chamomile tea
• 2 cups lemon juice
• 1/2 cup lime juice
• 1/2 cup sugar
• Whole lemongrass

Working ahead of time, combine the tea, fruit juice and sugar in a large pitcher. Once combined, add the whole lemongrass and allow the mocktail to sit in the fridge for several hours. Before serving, remove the lemongrass. Pour this drink over a cup of ice and add a new stalk of lemongrass as a garnish.

With your refreshing mocktails in hand, you can kick off your movie nights in style. After the fun is over, turn your attention to upgrading your Chicago apartments. With a call to our team at 866-474-1997, you can learn about all the awesome apartment homes available to you.

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The Perfect Chicago Hot Dog

Hot dog stands are definitely a "thing" here during the summer months, as evidenced by the throngs of people queued up around them. But you don't have to wait in line for the perfect Chicago-style dog. Instead, you can make one at home with this tasty recipe.

Mouthwatering Burgers

This recipe goes beyond the traditional grilled burger. If you want to give your patties a little extra "kick," don't forget to include this one on the menu.

Italian Sausage Sandwiches

Bring home the taste of the fair with this Italian sausage sandwich recipe. Use spicy meat for extra flavor.

Summer Squash With Lemon Dressing

The Chicago area is home to some excellent farmers markets. If you're not sure what to do with all that fresh produce, try putting seasoned squash and zucchini on the grill for a nutritious side dish.

Chicken and Black Bean Nachos

Didn't think it was possible to make nachos on the grill? This flavor-filled recipe makes it easier than ever. Just wrap your favorite ingredients in foil and place them over the fire.

Barbecue Salmon, Asian-Style

Looking for a creative alternative to the typical barbecue sauce? This Asian barbecue salmon recipe might just become your go-to when you don't want to spend a lot of time on food prep.

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods are home to a considerable selection of grocery stores, so you can stock your kitchen with everything you need to prepare your favorite meals. In addition to inviting outdoor spaces, our Chicago apartments are equipped with all the amenities you need to hone your culinary skills. Contact us today to see which floor plans are available.

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Cold Japanese Soba Noodles

Cold buckwheat noodles are a popular dish in Japan on hot days. 

Ingredients:

• Pinch of salt
• 1 cup chicken stock or dashi
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons mirin
• 8 ounces soba noodles
• Finely grated ginger for garnish
• Finely chopped scallions for garnish

Directions:

1. In a large pot, add water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil. 
2. Add noodles and cook until tender. 
3. Drain and rinse under cold running water. Continue to do so until noodles are cold. 
4. For the soup, combine the chicken stock (or dashi), soy sauce and mirin in a small saucepan and bring to a boil.
5. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature, although it is best if chilled. 
6. To serve, divide noodles into bowls and spoon soup over each. 
7. Top with garnishes.   

Spring Fresh Gazpacho

This recipe is perfect for highlighting the delicious taste of fresh vegetables. 

Ingredients:

• 6 plum tomatoes, chopped
• 4 green onions, chopped
• 1/2 large peeled cucumber, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tablespoons vinegar or lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Directions:

1. Add everything but the vinegar and olive oil to the blender.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour in the vinegar and the olive oil and blend again until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve.

Do you enjoy whipping together different recipes? Then, please come by and check out our beautiful apartments in Chicago, IL, where you can enjoy creating new taste sensations in our recently upgraded kitchens. Our pet-friendly community also boasts a host of other great amenities and services, including an indoor pool, a package receiving service, a garage, and a door attendant. We even offer a fitness studio with free classes. 

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James Bond — The Vesper Martini

The recipe for James Bond's famous martini was given in Ian Fleming's first novel about the spy. 

Ingredients:

• 3 ounces Gordon's gin
• 1 ounce vodka
• 1/2 ounce Lillet Blanc 

Shake all ingredients with ice. Strain and serve in a champagne glass (this was Bond's choice of glass for this drink, according to the book). Garnish with a slice of lemon. Be forewarned: This is a very strong drink.  

"Sex and the City" — The Cosmopolitan

This was the drink of choice for the four women of the hit HBO series "Sex and the City." 

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 ounces vodka
• 1 ounce cranberry juice
• 1/2 ounce Cointreau
• 1/2 ounce lime juice

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour in all of the ingredients and shake until chilled and well mixed. Strain your cocktail into a martini glass and then garnish with an orange slice. 

"The Blues Brothers" — Orange Whip

This drink earned a following after it was ordered by John Candy's parole officer character during a scene in the hit movie "The Blues Brothers."  

Ingredients:

• 1 ounce vodka
• 1/2 ounce triple sec
• 4 ounce orange juice
• 1 ounce rum
• 2 ounces heavy cream

Add all of the ingredients except the cream to a shaker that contains crushed ice. Shake for approximately 15 to 20 seconds until well mixed. Pour the cocktail into a glass, then float the heavy cream on top of the drink. Garnish with an orange slice. 

Have you been searching for a new home in the Windy City where you can indulge in delicious beverages such as these? Then please check out our apartments in Chicago. Our community boasts stunning views of Chicago and Lake Michigan, a 24-hour fitness center, an indoor pool, package delivery and a door attendant. Our apartments are also pet-friendly. Contact us today to learn more.

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Sometimes making it through a long afternoon can feel like a real struggle, especially if you are hungry. But eating the wrong snacks can pack on the pounds and leave you sluggish for the rest of the day. Try these three healthy and delicious treats to keep you satisfied until dinnertime.

Food to Beat Your Midafternoon Hunger 

• Greek Yogurt with Fruit and Nuts 
  Thick and creamy, a 4-ounce serving size of plain Greek yogurt offers a boost of energy with about 11 grams of protein. That is almost double the protein and less than half the amount of sodium, carbs, and sugar found in regular yogurt. If you are watching your weight or sugar intake, you will want to stay away from the flavored varieties, since they can really increase the calorie count. That doesn’t mean you can't take your snacking to the next level by sprinkling a few berries and chopped nuts on top, but just don’t go overboard.  

• Dark Chocolate and Almonds
  This snack may sound like a decadent choice at 300 calories, and it is to some degree, but both dark chocolate and almonds provide a lot of health benefits in exchange. A 1-ounce square of dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa solids has tons of flavanols, which some studies suggest can help lower the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Almonds are a wonder nut, and a 1-ounce portion has 3.5 grams of fiber, 6 grams of protein and takes care of a significant portion of the daily recommended intake of manganese, magnesium, and vitamin E. 

• Avocados
  It may be the oddest fruit, but the humble avocado is hard to beat as a rich and creamy snack that is also nutritious. Half an avocado has tons of vitamins, plenty of fiber, more potassium than a banana, and may even lower bad cholesterol levels while increasing the levels of good cholesterol. Add a splash of hot sauce or salt and lemon to bring out the flavor fully. 

Are you looking for apartments in Chicago, overlooking the lake? North Harbor Tower offers a variety of floor plans to meet your needs, and residents have access to hotel-like amenities. Call us today for a tour of our available floorplans. 

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Mouth-Watering Asian Noodle Dish Recipes

• Easy Lo Mein: In a jar, shake together 2 tbsp dark soy sauce, 1 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil and 1 tsp sugar. Cook ramen noodles (without spice packet) according to directions. Drain and set aside in a bowl. Heat sesame oil in a wok. Stir-fry white parts of 3 green onions and 3 cups of diced or julienned vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, cabbage, mushrooms, broccoli or bok choy. Add 2 tbsp mirin to pan, then toss in noodles and half of sauce. Stir to combine and add more sauce as necessary. Serve on a warm plate and garnish with the green parts of 3 green onions.
   
• Spicy Asian Noodles with Chicken: Heat sesame oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp grated ginger and 2 minced garlic cloves to pan. Saute quickly and put in a large bowl. Stir in more sesame oil, 2 cups diced chicken breast, 1/2 cup chopped green onions, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 2 tbsp hoisin sauce and 2 tsp sambal oelek. Stir-fry and then place in large bowl. Cook 1 package thin rice stick noodles according to directions. Rinse and drain. Cut noodles to make them smaller and add to bowl. Toss all ingredients in bowl and sprinkle with chopped peanuts and green onions.
   
• Sesame Ginger Noodles: To make the sauce, mix together 1/3 cup water, 1/3 cup tamari, 1/4 cup maple syrup, 1/4 cup sesame oil, 1 grated clove of garlic, 1 1/2 tsp grated ginger, 1 1/2 tsp corn starch and 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds. Boil 8 oz package rice noodles according to directions.  Meanwhile, heat a skillet and add sesame oil and 1 thinly sliced red bell pepper, 2 grated carrots, 1 handful snow peas and 1 1/2 cups thinly sliced purple cabbage. Stir-fry until starting to soften. Add noodles, chickpeas and sauce to pan. Cook until sauce has thickened. Top with cilantro and toasted sesame seeds.

At North Harbor Tower Apartments in Chicago, there are plenty of great reasons to stay home and skip the take-out. Call us today to find out which floor plans are available.

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Now, the challenge is just to figure out what to bring! Fortunately, we've got you covered.

We recommend fixing your work lunch the night before because it makes mornings much easier. Here are healthy ideas you can make the night before for a scrumptious lunch the following day.

Tuna Salad Sandwich

Perhaps the people you share the kitchen with at work won't appreciate this, but your body sure well! Tuna is super healthy, full of protein, and delicious for a satisfying lunch. We recommend mixing tuna in water (rinsed) with relish, chopped onions, chopped celery, and chopped bell peppers of various colors. You can even add some freshly chopped radish for some kick. Throw in a bit of salt and pepper along with some mayonnaise, and slap that salad onto two pieces of bread for a delicious sandwich you'll be looking forward to all day.

Grilled Chicken Wraps

You always want to pack some protein into your daily lunch. It will keep you going through the afternoon when you would otherwise be relying on caffeine. One of the best forms of animal protein is chicken breast because it’s lean, delicious, and extremely versatile. You can cook up three chicken breasts at a time and use the meat for your lunch, dinner, and even for a snack.

For your grilled chicken wrap lunch, you’ll want to take a flour tortilla, add some strips of cooked chicken breast and some vegetables (romaine lettuce, peppers, red onions, cucumbers, tomato), put in a sauce of some kind (hummus, ranch dip, guacamole, mustard, spicy mayo), and finish everything off with a few slices of your favorite cheese (cheddar, provolone, pepper Jack).

Why not prep your work lunches in your brand-new kitchen in Chicago? Our Chicago, IL apartments feature lovely, well-equipped kitchens — perfect for cooking and baking of all kinds.

Interested in relocating in Chicago? Please feel free to call our office to find out what floor plans we have available. 

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Creamy Mac and Cheese

For many people, the holidays just aren't the holidays without macaroni and cheese. There are a lot of different variations of crockpot mac and cheese, but we think this one looks extra delicious. And it is even better because you don't even have to boil the noodles first. It can't get any easier for you in the kitchen with this recipe. 

Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

Everyone loves some yummy mashed potatoes around the holidays, and this recipe is even better because of the added cheese! If you want creamy as well as cheesy, and, of course, easy, then this is the recipe you want to try. Traditionally, mashed potatoes take a lot of effort, but you can relax a bit and enjoy all of the flavors when you try it this way. 

Cinnamon Apples

This is almost a two for one because not only are they delicious, but they also will make everything smell great in the kitchen. Beyond that, who doesn't love some cinnamon apples as a dessert after dinner or even as a side? Cooking them in the slow cooker with this recipe also helps to best bring out their natural flavor, so it is the best of both worlds by being easy to make and better than other methods. 

Now that you have some recipes to try, it is time to get cooking! if you are hosting this year and need a new place to call home that allows you to host, be sure to check out these apartments in Chicago. Be sure to stop by today to take a tour to see if we have something that fits your needs this holiday season and beyond.

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