It’s Sunday, which means it’s time for another Happy for Now list. If you’re new here, this is just a list of the little things this week that are making me happy for now. Also, sorry this is going out later than normal. Substack was glitching for me earlier today.
Shishito Popper Tacos
There aren’t many tacos I don’t like, but these Shishito Pepper Tacos (gift link), courtesy of the Washington Post’s fantastic recipe section, put a new spin on them that I (and the fam) greatly enjoyed!
Imagine a less spicy cream cheese-filled jalapeno popper and then drop it into a taco. That’s basically what we have here. Shishito peppers are stuffed with cream cheese that’s laced with bits of pickled jalapenos, cilantro, and a touch of garlic. Then the peppers are cooked directly onto corn tortillas and then topped with shredded cheese.
Even my meat-loving teen (who, btw, doesn’t even like roasted peppers) was impressed with these vegetarian tacos. He ate three and was sad there weren’t more. They were the perfect combo of creamy cheese, green pepper, and a hit of heat.
I will say that I made a few modifications that you’re welcome to steal. Instead of stuffing each individual pepper (because who has time for that on a weeknight), I spread the cream cheese mixture directly on the tortilla and then topped with the peppers and shredded cheese.
Also, because I knew my family would want the peppers more cooked than the 10 minutes alloted in the recipe, I did a quick 10-minute roast on just the peppers in a 425 degree oven before putting them on the tortillas. I also topped the tacos with sliced avocado once they were out of the oven, which was a great addition.
Lastly, if you don’t have access to shishito peppers, use whatever kind of green peppers you like. AND if you don’t want any heat, look for mild pickled jalapenos or use less of the spicy kind.
Enjoy!
An organized pantry
There is nothing more soothing for me than organizing something. When the world gets chaotic, I want to bring order where I can. My pantry was in desperate need of a complete overhaul. I spent four hours yesterday pulling everything out, ditching expired things, and then reorganizing what went back in. I had things that had expired in 2022 lurking in there. Ugh.
Now everything is where it needs to be for now. We’ll see how long it lasts!
My parents literally being the cutest
This weekend for Valentine’s Day, my parents drove out to Florida where a place called Lulu’s was hosting a wedding vow renewal event.
They’ve been married 35 years (technically my dad is my stepdad if you’re doing the math on that) so this was the perfect time to do it. They exchanged vows again, had a “first” dance, and then took photos by a wedding cake. Even though it was a light-hearted event, my mom said she still got emotional. ❤️
I love the whole idea of this and love that my parents did it. I only wish I could’ve been there to see it. Also, life goals to look that fantastic in my 60s/70s. I mean, I know I’m biased, but how damn cute are they?
Alright, that’s all I have for you today. I hope you have a great week and I’d love to know what’s been making you happy for now. Don’t be afraid to leave a comment! :)
This is a particularly lovely list, and was such a nice break to read on a day when I needed it. Thank you!
Jealous of the size of your pantry. I organized mine during the pandemic and am proud to say I've kept it that way.
Your parents look fantastic! Congratulations to them on their renewal.