Hey kids! Today I thought it would be fun to bring you another installment of my “favorite things”, with a nod to some goodies I’ve been enjoying the last couple of months.
Before getting started, I’ll take a moment to thank you all for your considerate and thoughtful responses to my new year’s post. I forgot to mention it in recent posts. I didn’t get to responding to every comment, so wanted to let you know how much I appreciated your sentiments. I’m going into my 11th year of blogging, and sometimes I can feel disconnected with you all with repeated recipe posts. When I turn to more personal posts, I’m reminded of how many of you are reading from different parts of the world. Your kindness and connection is very meaningful.
Now, on to the goodies!
Raw Cashew Butter
For some reason, it’s been particularly hard to score macadamia nut butter. Years back, the Nuts To You brand had macadamia butter, and it was available in our local stores. In recent years, it’s disappeared! The brand still exists, but not the mac butter. In fact, it’s been hard to find macadamia nuts as well. I have always loved macadamia nut butter, and it’s dreamy in whole foods plant-based desserts. The creamy, rich texture and buttery flavor is almost unmatched. Almost. Coming very close is raw cashew butter! I’ve been using the Artisana brand recently. Raw cashew butter is thicker than macadamia butter, but the flavor is similarly mild and buttery. As mentioned, this nut butter is beautiful in for desserts, but also comes in handy for quick sauces and blends where you might use soaked cashews. The cashews aren’t soaked in this nut butter, but they are raw. Plus, since they are pureed into a thick butter, it can allow you to skip a step of blending in some dishes. Just add a spoonful or two (or more) for texture, flavor, creaminess. Divine! As many of you know, I’m also a huge fan of coconut butter, and Artisana is one of my favorite brands.
Breville Smart Oven Pro
Many years ago I stopped using a microwave. It wasn’t this big health declaration or anything. I never quite liked how it cooked (or heated) food, and I was mostly using it to thaw ice cream! One day I realized that this machine was taking up a lot of my kitchen space just for my vegan ice cream. 🙂 We moved it out, and I found another way to thaw ice cream – patience. Before long, I started using my toaster oven for other reheating needs. like leftover sauces, casseroles, etc. The difference was minor. Instead of say 1 minute to reheat a sauce, it took maybe 10 minutes in the toaster oven. Then, I started to rely on my toaster oven more and more, for roasting and grilling small batches of veggies like green beans and asparagus, baking marinated tofu, heating leftover soups for lunch, and more. My toaster oven became a kitchen essential for me, much like my food processor and Blendtec.
Last year, Breville released their new Smart Oven Pro and generously sent a model for me to experiment with. This is far more than a toaster oven. It’s a digital mini-convection-oven-wonder!. It looks sleek in the kitchen, and performs a dream. At first I thought I might be a bit overwhelmed by the digital display and functions. Sometimes I prefer the “less is more” with appliances. But the Smart Oven is an exception to that rule. With this oven, I can not only reheat leftovers, and do the same roasting and baking as I did before, but it’s large enough – and capable enough – to perfectly cook pizzas, bake cookies, and more. If I didn’t have this machine now, I’d go out and buy it. So, if you’re in the market for a toaster oven, definitely consider the Smart Oven Pro.
Lululemon Vinyasa Rulu Scarf
This was a Christmas gift from hubby. I got a text from him on December 23rd, reading like this:
Santa is shopping! So what do you want? …
Okaaaay then. Well-planned, luv! Poor guy, he is not a shopper. He knows that gifts from Lulu usually score with me, but he hadn’t even started there. About a week earlier, I was eyeing this scarf online. Quite pricey for a scarf, so I passed on picking it up. Until, that is, hubby hit “desperate-shopping mode”. I showed him some mercy and sent the link. And I’m glad I did! love the scarf, and wear it a few times a week. It’s not heavy or hot, so it’s an item that works through early fall through to late spring. The color I have (pictured) is the ‘space dye camo berry’, if you’re shopping! There’s also a new aquamarine that looks gorgeous. Maybe for Mother’s Day. 😉 (p.s. I did find a few other rulu scarves on amazon if you like them.)
Vega Sport Performance Protein
I’ve mentioned before that I love Vega products. They recently released a new Sport Performance powder, and yep, I’m a fan again. This blend is unique with tart cherry, turmeric and probiotics, and of course is non-gmo, vegan, and free of gluten, soy, artificial flavors, colors, and sweeteners. Also, for those sensitive to the taste of stevia in protein powders, I don’t find it as noticeable in this Sport powder. Vanilla is my favorite, but they are all very good! If you aren’t sure about buying a full tub, the single-serve packets are often available in stores. (Plus, you guys get a chance to win some today!)
Anti-Fatigue Cooking Mat
Last week I picked up an anti-fatigue cooking mat at HomeSense. For the past year or so I’m noticing my feet, calves, and low back are feeling the effects of long hours in the kitchen recipe testing, and daily cooking for the family (they eat so much now)! I’ve had my eye on a GelPro mat for a while, but just forgot to order one. So, when I spotted a similar Imprint mat at HomeSense, I snapped it up! I’m loving it. It’s so cushy and comfy. I always wear something on my feet on the floors, like my skechers or cooking clogs. But, that support is not enough on the hardwood after many hours. This mat is now essential, and I can’t believe I cooked so long without it.
That wraps it up for this feature! I hope you’re enjoying this series, feel free to share any of your great finds in the comments – might be something I can showcase in another post.
And, before I sign off, you have a chance to win a tub of the new, fabulous Vega Sport Performance Protein powder, PLUS a copy of Brendan Brazier’s newly released Thrive, 2nd edition! This new edition includes a foreword by Venus Williams, all new photos, a new functional fitness workout plan.
Enter to win this Vega prize below!
Brooke says
Thanks for the recommendation on the toaster oven. I would really like to get a better one than what we have now and I agree that it’s preferable to the microwave. I also love the idea of the kitchen mat!
Julianne says
Hi Dreena thanks for the great list. I just wanted to know if you looked into what the interior of the toaster oven was made of. I know it’s non stick. That just worries me.
Marilyn Leblanc says
The mat is such a good idea ! Another good excuse to make a trio to homesense 😉
Daniel Parker says
Vega is a new favorite brand for me. Been wanting to try one of their protein powders but haven’t been able to pull the trigger.
Amy Pantaleo says
I can’t wait to try this protein!
Liz says
I have been looking for a new protein powder. I have heard great things about Vega and would love to try it!!
Emily C. says
Thanks for the product introductions and giveaway. I always wonder about protein powders but don’t love committing to a big bag without a sample or trusted recommendation. 🙂
Sarah says
I love the new packaging on the Vega! Plus it’s great to see them branched out and at all my local Target stores.
Angela says
I would love to try this product.
Rachel says
Thanks for this post.
NicoleT says
So many great LOCAL prizes!
Hannah says
I use the Vega sport powder and love it! Thanks for the giveaway!
Jordan D. says
I love Vega products and would really love to try the sport line. This would be perfect for my workout recovery after teaching nighttime fitness classes!
Alisa Fleming says
I miss our toaster oven (it’s been eons!), and definitely need to look into that appliance. I’ve become too reliant on the microwave again more because our oven takes an eternity to heat up.
Liz King says
Have yet to try Vega products though I have read Frazier’s cookbook. Thanks for the opportunity to win some.
Maggie says
Interesting – I didn’t know Vega had a new formula. I’ve used their protein powders for years and would love to try to the version!
Molly K says
I just tried Vega Sport mocha and loved it! I can’t wait to try all of the different flavors!
kristi says
We workout a lot so we are big fans of protein powder! Have always been a big fan of Vega! thanks for the giveaway!
Suzanne says
I have never tried cashew butter, we buy almond butter. I’m excited to go buy some now!
Aliza says
I haven’t owned a microwave for 10 years. I don’t even know how to work one anymore 🙂 Would love to try this protein powder and check out this book
Steph says
I would love to cook with protein
Rust says
We’d love to try it! Thanks!
Rebecca says
Hi and thanks for the giveaway chance! My husband is vegan, but an out of shape vegan due to recent illness, his crazy work schedule and helping with the busy raising of two weegans. I’ve been eyeing up Thrive and some Vega products recently, thinking it just might be the help he needs. He’s committed to getting in better shape, for our kids benefit and his own, and we’re trying to inspire him. Thanks to your great books, we’ve got the healthy eating down, but the fitness part needs some work. And having Vega powder to travel with for his work would be a great thing.
Austin Rideout says
You just reminded me that I wanted to buy a toaster oven! There goes the savings again! Haha!
Heather Oswald says
I love my toaster oven! It’s the best for so many things and a great substitute for the oven during the hot summer months.
Aaron says
I could always use more protein!
Angela M says
Thanks for sharing your suggestions. I haven’t tried the new Vega formula yet.
Alex says
What do you do when you’ve run out of room for appliances? 🙂
Nanette Labastida says
I’m totally obsessing on that toaster oven now!!! love everything about this post
Linda Gerace says
Great post… thanks! Great giveaway, too.
Kim says
Thanks for offering such nice giveaways!
Kim says
I would love to read the new Thrive book!
Julie says
Wow Dreena, this is a great post. I now have so many tabs open on Chrome to check out! I’ve never owned a toaster oven but was just thinking about it the other day. Today is our anniversary (31 years!), so maybe the hubby will get me one. ha ha And the mat….my lower back has given me fits for years, and now my knee is painful; hardwood floor in the kitchen…I think the mat might be a life saver. Thanks for all the great ideas!
Samantha Plotkin says
Thanks for offering this giveaway. Love Vega!
Christine says
It’s great you are so honest with the community. When you need a break, you take one, and come back more inspired instead of faking your way through it. I love that you honor yourself and your family so thank you! Nice to hear about your favorite things – oh and I’m having a tough time finding Mac nuts too. So frustrating.
The giveaways are always a bonus 🙂 fingers crossed!
valerie sobus says
this is great! i’d love to try it. i think i am someone who is a little sensitive to the taste of stevia. but when i was pregnant and had morning sickness — the only thing that helped me was consuming large amounts of protein, which was difficult since i didn’t want to eat anything. i ended up going with protein bars last time but i think this would be such a better option for me! (we’re trying for baby no. 2!)
Keisha says
I bought Plant Powered Families as my first all vegan cookbook! I love it!
Courtenay says
I love the idea of a cooking mat! I have a bad back already and always notice it after I spend a long time in the kitchen working on recipes for my family! Sounds like a great idea.
Emilie R says
I have a smart oven and absolutely love it
Jill says
Love your list of favorites! I haven’t tried the protein vega – would love to win and try it!
Marnie G (Derrick Todd) says
Great items you selected for your favorite things. I’ve always wanted to try an anti-fatigue mat.
Courney C says
Oh my gosh, I’m also obsessed with toaster ovens.
Sydney says
Love this post
jacquie says
thanks for the tip on the mac butter – it sounds great.
Sandra Smith says
Love your choices! I would love if you could do a post on the Instant Pot one day too, it’s part of my favorite things list 🙂
Stephanie says
My husband and I love Vega. I’m a long-time vegan and he’s a new vegetarian and ultramarathoner. We haven’t tried the sport one yet so that’s next up!
Stephanie says
I love this post – my favorite vegan things. How clever. I use Vega and love it. I love your idea of a mat too. Pick me please
Eva says
I’d love to phase out microwave usage. Toaster oven sounds like the way to go!
Victoria says
These all sound great! Thanks for the thumbs up on these products!
Katrina says
I love Vega products. I haven’t tried the Sport yet, but I am interested. Thanks for all you share with us.
Lena says
I love the look of that scarf. And somehow I have never thought of using cashew butter instead of raw cashews in cheese sauces etc., even though my blender is not the greatest and doesn’t blend cashews very smoothly!
Nikki M. says
Amazing giveaway! I think your favorite things might become my favorite things, too. I’m really interested in that anti-fatigue cooking mat. We don’t have a dishwasher so I have to hand wash everything. Standing in front of the sink really does a number on the ankle I had surgery on a few years ago. Any relief would be awesome!
Anu says
Thanks so much for mentioning the gelpro mats. I was wondering what to get my mom for her birthday and the mat is perfect!
Christine says
Thanks so much for everything you post here! I have been following this blog almost since the beginning of my vegan journey, and as a young adult, I find so much inspiration in the way you raise your family plant-based. It is definitely something I aspire to when I have my own family! Keep up the great work!
Janel M. says
Thank you for your input on the toaster oven–I’m in the market for one.
Kirsten Henrickson says
Thanks so much for offering this. I’d love to win the protein powder.
stacey says
I understand why these are your favorite things!
Ashley says
Thanks for the chance to win!!
Jolene says
I have the same lulu scarf and have been wearing it for years. my favourite, convertible go to!
Claudia says
Have the same toaster oven and love love love it!! I’m a fan of vega products but haven’t tried the performance protein yet — would love to try it out 🙂
Jacky hood says
i love this cashew butter! So good.
Chelsea A says
My friend just raves about Brendan Brazier’s first book – I’d love to win this!! 🙂
Jodie says
After five years without a microwave, we were just pondering the need for it again (lots more little kiddos to feed now!) … Maybe the toaster oven is the way to go. Thanks for sharing! Ooh and that mat looks like a huge relief!!
Annie Reed says
All great suggestions! I love Vega, have not tried the Sport version, have been wanting to try it. 🙂
Gina says
Your post has me wanting a toaster oven- I’ve never had one and they sound wonderful! Love Thrive products. I use their Nutrition Shakes and Performance enhancers all the time.
Tabitha says
Ooh, I love favorite things post! Good to hear about the protein powder and even better at the chance at a giveaway! I’ve been searching for a new vanilla and I am sensitive to Stevia flavor–good to know that bit of information!
Thanks for the chance!
Heather says
Cheers for the thoughtful giveaway! We have a small kitchen mat similar to the one you feature here, and our backs are most grateful.
Concetta says
Vega products are great. Thanks for the giveaway.
Allison says
I would love to try the sports performance protein powder. I use hemp protein but the combo of protein in vega looks good.
Ruth says
I would love to win Vega, I love their products but they are pricey for me.
Ariel says
Breville makes really great products and their warranty is really good too. I can see why you love it!
Michelle M says
Great giveaway
Shira says
Great post! I think I want that Breville oven now too! And I’ve been meaning to try some protein powders since I just purchased Terry Hope Romero’s Protein Ninja cookbook.
Terri Cole says
I have a toaster oven with the convection feature. It’s not quite as fancy, or digital, but I love it! Especially in the summer when I can’t stand the thought of turning on the big oven,
Tracy says
I love Vega!!
Marie says
That gel mat seems like a great idea! Thank you for the giveaway 🙂
aShley O'Connor says
What great recommendations! It seems that I need one those mats in my life, due to some cooking pains. I have yet try Vega, but I would love to!
Jessica eagLe says
Thanks Dreena for this wonderful giveaway. I’m really excited about it.
Your oven thing sounds really interesting. I would like to get rid of my microvawe, so I think I’ll seriously consider your suggestion. Thanks.
Faith says
I enjoy posts like this- thanks for the recommendations!
Maya B says
This looks great!
Daniell says
I love the Vega products too and I’d love to try this one. I’ve never splurged for Lulu, but I love that scarf enough that I just may have to! 🙂
Jen says
These look like a great collection! I would love to try that scarf for travel.
Elle says
Several years ago I gave away my micorwave and switched back to a toaster oven. Love it.
Marina says
I didn’t even know gel cooking mats were available. I will have to look for one of these!
Beth E. says
I practically live on Vega products — no joke. The Sport Performance Protein powder is my favorite!
Rachelle says
I have a new found love for the cacao kissed savi seeds !!!
Lisa says
Everything looks great. Great giveaway.
valerie says
Love supporting vegan companies like Vega!
Dianne Smith says
Love your site
Rhonda Lynn says
Thanks for the post! I love the cashew butter as well.
Shelley says
Any product with turmeric in it is worth a try. I need to shop around for that mat too as my back and legs hurt while cooking. Thanks Dreena for all you do!
Candace Draper says
Thanks for all the great suggestions – all of which I have never tried! I look forward to trying the vega powder!
Britt says
I love Vega bars! They’re great in a pinch and, knowing Brendan Brazier’s nutrition philosophy, I feel comfortable using them as regular convenience foods. Also, now that I’m in training for my first half marathon, I’m enjoying the Vega energy gels. I’ve stayed away from the protein powders because of the stevia, but would love to give this a try.
Angie says
I love the Vega line, for their taste and nutrition. Looking forward to giving this one a try.
Erin says
I have that Breville oven and love it! I need to try the cashew butter.
MaryEllen says
I LOVE and use Vega Sport energizer every single day!
Krista says
I love their Protein and Greens line that is sold at Target. So delicious in smoothies
Natalie Collins says
I’m a big fan of Vegan One, and have that in the kitchen almost all the time. We also keep the Vega Proteins and Greens stocked, as Costco started stocking those. Sometimes we get the Vega snack bars, my little one loves the peanut butter ones! I do too! 🙂
Zoe Bellinghausen says
Love Vega Sports Protein. I use it everyday in my lunch smoothie. I also love Vega Recovery drink, protein bars and their no calorie drink. I use the entire line of Vega products and have been since they first came out. I have the original Thrive book and I love it.
Natalie Collins says
Thank you Dreena for the prize pack! I’m also a huge fan of using a toaster oven, and got rid of my toaster years ago. I use the toaster oven more often than the big oven. I also approve of the gel mat in the kitchen! I got one from Costco last year, I can’t remember the name brand of the one I have, but it makes a difference when you are spending a Sunday in the kitchen making Sunday dinner, batch cooking muffins and prepping for the week! 🙂
Denise Randall says
I think these products all seem amazing. Thanks so much for sharing with everyone!
Jenna says
I love that scarf! I’m going to have to leave a hint for my hubby for my birthday. 😉
Kimberly says
I have loved every Vega product I have tried!
Mariah says
I have been wanting to try the chocolate protein power and the protein and greens powder!
paula rothman says
vega sports recovery after a long workout!
Deana says
I haven’t tried any Vega products yet but I’ve been anxious to try the Vega Sport line.
Kate says
I’ve wanted to read this book for a while, and the new edition sounds great- so does the protein powder!
Tawni Casteel says
I would be interested in trying this sports powder, especially if the stevia taste is gone.
Vera K says
I would love to try Vega Protein and Greens.
Tammy says
I dont use protein powders but my husband who is working on transitioning to plant based does. He lifts 4 days a week. He has been trying to find a vegan powder he liked but has been unsuccessful so far. We havent tried Vega brand, but would love to.
janet says
I found Vega At Kroger Grocery stores recently. I love the vanilla, plan to try coconut Almond next! I heard that one was amazing.
Suzie says
What do you like more about the sport protein powder than their other protein powders? Does it work well in the protein balls from PPF?
Emma says
I’ve never tried any of the Vega products but would like to!
Susan says
My husband really likes the recovery accelerator.!
Jen says
I like Vega Choc-a-lot Protein Smoothie powder to make my energy balls 🙂
Cheryl says
I want to try Vega One Nutritional Shake.
Karlie says
I love Vega One in my daily smoothies but I have been wanting to try their other products!!
News Amélie says
Thanks for the giveaway !
Patti says
Can’t wait to check out Brendan’s new book. I am a long time fan and love his other books and chocolate Vega!
Donna Cress says
I would love to try vegan protein. Thanks for the chance.
Jaleesa says
I haven’t tried Vega at all yet, so I’m excited to try any!
Honey says
That kitchen mat looks really interesting! I haven’t tried Vega yet, but I’ve been wanting to!
Greg A says
I love the Sport powder. The taste, nutrient profile, and blend ability are the best on the market.
Miet says
I love Vega One!
Courtney says
I have never tried vega products because they are so expensive, but I have always wanted to! I have heard such good things about the chocolate sports performance protein that that is the one I would love to try!
Ali says
I’d love to try the vega flavours!
Heidi says
I use the vega protein and greens and love it! I haven’t seen the sports formulas in a store here, but would love to try it.
Lyn says
Hi Dreena, thank you for this helpful insight. I have a question. I don’t use a microwave in my home as a precautionary health measure. So is a toaster oven safe and without the potential harming of foods?
Lacey says
I love Vega’s protein powders – especially the vanilla chai and the vanilla protein+greens!
Angie says
Love this new favorites list. I like the idea of the Stevia being on the milder side. I will pick up an individual pack and give it a try.
Jodi says
Thanks for being such a wonderful resource for yummy vegan food! Would love to try the Vega products!
Amanda Hunter says
I would like to try the Sports performance one!
Arlene says
I drink the Vega Smoothie and Vegan Protein and Greens! Never tried the Sports one AND would love to.
Marie says
I really like the vega one chocolate!
Amber B says
I’ve yet to try this! I really love the Vega One (currently French Vanilla!)
Lisa Clarke says
I agree- love our toaster oven! I’d love to try more Vega items. I never see them in stores?
Angie Wolfe says
How do you make your popcorn?
Kim Belanger says
So… how do you heat up your mug of coffee? With two young children, I usually re-heat mine several times over the course of the morning… 🙂
Claire Elizabeth says
Aw man! I have to choose my favourite?! That’s so tough, because I love every vega product I’ve tried! I might have to say the coconut almond vega one. I love that slight hint of cherry amaretto flavour in there – YUM! I really do want to try those new sport protein powders though too! They’d be ideal for post-skate shakes! Delicious and refuelling! 😉
Vegyogini says
My favorite Vega product is the chocolate maca bars. SO GOOD!
Brenda says
I love the chocolate protein powder and I add a small scoop to my morning oatmeal. I’ve recently gotten into making protein balls so I add some protein powder in those as well. Thanks for the giveaway! I would love to win!
Cyndi br says
I want to try the vega snack bar
Jermisha says
I would love to try Vega chocolate protein powder in morning breakfast smoothies. I would also like to use the protein powder in homemade brownies and cookies!
Crystal says
I want to try the Vega chocolate protein powder!
TaMaRa says
I love the chocolate protein powder, doesn’t have the weird flavor of most protein powders. I need that toaster oven!
Sharanya says
I haven’t tried vega so any flavor would be good
Marika says
GREAT list of goodies 🙂 My usual go to Vega protein powders are the Protein and Greens, and their Smoothies—but I’m super curious about this new Sport line!
Abby says
I would love to try the soy-free vegan powder, as I love their chocolate peanut butter snack bars but haven’t splurged on the protein powder yet…
Katie says
I love the Vega Proteins & Greens in vanilla!
Kaylie S says
I would love to try out these powders!! I love the normal vega protein powders so I’m sure these will be great!
Caitlin says
I love the Vega Protein Smoothie and would love to try Sport!
Allyson a says
Always fun to see your favorite things, and thanks for the great Vega giveaway. I’ve tried the Vega One protein powder, but would love to try the new Vega Sport Performance Protein powder.
emma soji says
thank you for all of your healthy, cruelty free recipes and for your inspiring blog!~
Sydney mcnac says
I have been vegan for just over a month now and I have been wanting to try Vega protein powders! I make so many smoothies and it would be convenient to add protein powder to them!
Joy J says
It all looks wonderful! I would love to try them all;)
Brandie says
I would love to win this! I’ve always wanted to try it!
Ariane says
I’m a Vega fan too. I tried the new Vega Sport protein formula and it’s very good, the texture is great!
Courtney H says
I want to try all Vega products (new vegan)!
Tamara Preston Boyd says
Want to try the new Vega Sport!
Danielle says
I want to try the new clean protein!
Karen Robb says
Great giveaway, would love to win!