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How to Style The Dressy PulloverYou'll Also Like:Building A Capsule Wardrobe - In Search Of: The Perfect Light Colored Button Up / Collared Shirt1/13/2021
Please share your favorite button-up/buttown-down/women's collared dress shirt recommendations in the comments so we can build our best capsules! :)
In my younger years I never found a button up that I felt comfortable in, that fit and flattered my petite frame. I kind of assumed this universal staple just wasn't for me. In 2019 I branched out and ordered a silk button up shirt in royal blue (review here) that I, surprisingly, enjoy so much that I decided a light (white/cream) button up is a wardrobe gap, an absolute necessity and staple for me to add this year (hopefully!) to my capsule wardrobe.
Possible Options - Capsule Wardrobe Light Colored Button Up Addition
What I’m wondering
Here’s What I’ve Tried So Far:
This post contains affiliate links. Using them is at no extra cost to you, but helps support the cost of running this informative blog. Thanks visiting and for your support!
Nisolo is a brand I've been following for a while now who are known for fairly priced, ethically made shoes and accessories.
Here are a few of my favorites from their current lineup:
••• Get $50 Off Your Nisolo Purchase •••
Nisolo Dari Boot
Elayna Sneaker
Cordoba Backpack
Cleo Convertible Clutch
Clara Crossbody Purse
Simone Crossbody Shopper
Amalia All Weather Boot
d'Orsay Oxford
Huarache Sandal
Pin For Later!You'll Also Like:Which Is Your Favorite Nisolo Shoe? Leave A Comment!Share your headband recommendations in the comments! :)
What I tried...
Possible Options: Leather Headbands
What I'm Wondering:
Here's What I've Tried So Far:Wardani Italian Lambskin Leather Headband Made in New York
Leave Your Recommendations In The Comments! :)January 2021 Closet Audit Capsule Wardobe -
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Fast Fashion Royal Blue Turtleneck
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Fast Fashion Royal Blue Snap Button Cardigan
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Everlane Relaxed Silk Shirt in Real Blue
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Fast Fashion Chartreuse Snap Button Cardigan
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Fast Fashion Forest Green Snap Button Cardigan
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Everlane Mustard Yellow Cashmere Crew Sweater
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Skirts
For the January Closet Audit Capsule Wardrobe Skirts Category, I chose 3 more-or-less solid skirts along with two fun patterned skirts.
Sea Life Circle Skirt w/ Pockets - Made To Measure on Etsy
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Fast Fashion Talbots Tweed Pencil Skirt
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Fast Fashion Banana Republic Taupe Skirt
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Encircled Dressy Sweatskirt in Navy
Initial Review Here
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Fast Fashion Long Abstract Animal Print Pencil Skirt
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Dresses
January Closet Audit Capsule Wardrobe Dresses Category, I chose 2 dresses. A yellow dress I was recently given in a bag of hand-me-downs and a blue and green dress I've had for a while.
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What’s not included:
Layering T shirts and casual which is basically my jeans, dressy sweatpants, and encircled leggings with any of the tops above or my t shirts
Intentions:
Intention: The intention of the Closet Audit Capsule Wardrobe series is to assess the color, fit, style, and fabric of each garment.
Action: At the end of the month I will remove items I consistently don’t reach for, find unflattering, uncomfortable or in need of constant adjustment while wearing. Additionally: This capsule also gives me the opportunity to try clothes from a recently received hand-me-down bag to give them an honest evaluation as to whether they are worthy of my in-progress closet curation. Spreadsheet or StyleBook App: I'm also using this as an opportunity to start outfit tracking again whether in my Style Book app or a spreadsheet, to assess which clothing, footwear and other accessories I'm reaching for most and what the CPW is working out to be. Just a nerdy-fun thing .:) |
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Predictions:
I'm guessing this will be the year I finally shed some of the fast fashion cardigans I have a love-hate relationship with and items that are functional but I don't love, when I have alternatives available that I do love.
Shoes I Reached For This Month:
These Birkenstocks - the finish makes it surprisingly versatile and elevates a casual outfit a bit. They are also super comfy especially because of the wide and spacious footbed. (Note: Wearing these in January bc I’m home all day)
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Emerald Handmade Vintage Style Leather Booties from etsy
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Spenco Orthotic Arch Support Loafer - these are a little loose on me so they rub at the heel on my right foot (problem area for me) if I wear them a lot without thick socks, but they are great for wearing at home! All Spenco shoes have wonderful, supportive footbeds and I highly recommend them - just get the right size ;)
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Discoveries
coming soon!
Please share your favorite light sweater recommendations in the comments so we can build our best capsules! :)
I have a taupe-ish turtleneck I lean on heavily in the winter months. I like the color but It’s not a perfect match for my wardrobe at this time and it’s had a good run. I got it as a hand-me-down from a friend at least 7 years ago. Winter 2019 I determined to let it go after that season but ended up using it through all of 2020 too. The fabric doesn’t feel great on and it's no wonder as it was from The Limited and a terrible synthetic blend. I feel good about letting it go once I have something to replace it with since I wear it weekly in the winter.
This time I want to try something a bit lighter.
This time I want to try something a bit lighter.
Possible Options - Capsule Wardrobe Light Sweater Replacement
Soft Cotton Crew - reg $50 on sale $35 atm
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Jude Pullover Sweater Birch
$25 off your first purchase friend link |
Mockneck Sweater Natural
$25 off your first purchase friend link |
Modern Fischer Cotton Sweater
$25 off your first purchase friend link |
Mongolian Cashmere Turtleneck
$10 off your first purchase friend link |
Here’s What I’ve Tried So Far:
Everlane Soft Cotton Crew Sweater in Bone
The Everlane Soft cotton Crew Sweater looks to have a pretty timeless style and is 100% cotton. One blogger said this was one of her favorite more fitted sweaters and she really recommended it over some other ones she had picked up. So we’ll see. It was on sale for $35 (reg $50) so I decided to give it a try when I ordered the 40 Hour Flat in Cream. (Review here - coming soon) Once the sweater comes in and I have a chance to wear it on a number of occasions I will add that review.
Check for current Everlane discounts here and don’t forget to get the highest Everlane Cashback rate here. |
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What I’m wondering
After placing my order, I’m wondering if I will actually like having this cotton crew sweater or if I will wish I had gotten something like a turtleneck/mockneck and then a more flowy sweater (like the Jude pullover) that could be tucked resulting in beautiful drape... I’m all about that drape these days. I don’t want to look shapeless in a tremendously oversized piece, but I also now appreciate that everything doesn’t need to be fitted to be flattering, whether you are thick or thin. A lesson I learned over the last decade.
Still, It’s hard to get a light colored, fitted mockneck that’s is opaque, so that could be a challenge and interesting ISO (in search of) in it’s own right. |
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You've probably heard of a capsule wardrobe. And you've probably heard of a closet audit. But have you heard of a closet audit capsule? ;)
What is a capsule wardrobe?
Let's define capsule as it relates to clothing per Oxford Languages: "(of a collection of clothing) consisting of a relatively small set of key items"
Some people have a truly minimalist wardrobe and their capsule wardrobe consists of only those key items and nothing more. Their capsule wardrobe stays almost the same year round, depending on climate. For the vast majority, though, the idea of a capsule wardrobe is a lot less intimidating and extreme. The idea is to set aside a small selection of the clothing you own and mix and match those pieces together for a period of time of your choice. During that time you can remove the rest of your clothing and enjoy a really spacious and open feeling closet. A Few Benefits of a Capsule Wardrobe:
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What is a closet audit?
Let's start with a definition for audit: "an official inspection of an individual's or organization's accounts, typically by an independent body"
Applying that to your closet - A closet audit entails a thorough investigation and inspection of what is in your closet! Most people will do this on their own, although you can hire help if you're in the position to. Generally an initial closet audit includes taking out everything from your closet(s) and literally counting every item you have and how many items you have. While the end number of items in your closet is person to your needs and preferences, it can be interesting to see the total figure of items you have. Definitely write this down at the beginning so you can look back later. After taking inventory (or during), put each item in one of 3 piles:
The Keep Pile consists of pieces you definitely love and know you want to keep! The Hold Pile consists of pieces you're not sure about. Maybe they are really functional but you don't love them, but you can't pass them on until you have a suitable replacement. Maybe they are new-ish or were gifted/hand-me-downs you received and you're still tryin to see if you want them in your curated wardrobe - if they fit your personal style and lifestyle. The Donate Pile consists of (obviously) pieces to donate. You've made peace with them. Maybe you've worn them a ton, maybe they're just not your style anymore. Maybe you finally came to grips with the fact that even though you spent a lot of $$, if it's just hanging in your closet causing you guilt then it's costing more than simply letting it go would. Some of these pieces you may be able to sell online or pass on to friends as well! There's an amazing free Minimalist Wardrobe Workbook that will help you with this from encircled. If you're Canadian your Minimalist Wardrobe Workbook is here. |
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Growing up
Growing up our family didn't have a lot of money, so we always shopped the super-clearance racks. By the time I moved out, I had bins upon bins of cheap clothing. It was literally a burden, but I was not accustomed to letting things go. Especially if they were "still good". It dawned on me at some point that all of those "great deals" actually added up to a lot of money, little by little, and many of those clothes didn't last long due to poor quality or weren't really my taste. Buying for the price tag instead of buying a style that makes you feel great wearing it or something that fills a gap in your wardrobe is a mistake I've made countless times.
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20s
This decade started my downsizing of ... well everything, but we're focusing on clothing here. I passed on at least 60-70% of my (admittedly huge) wardrobe and swapped out tons of patterned tops for solid t's and cardigans. These worked great for casual outfits with jeans or with skirts.
The errors I made:
The combination of the second and third bullet points were what made the quantity of items truly an error. At least half of the items I bought were not colors that flattered my hair/skin tone. I loved the color, I loved the style. Still, I either never reached for them or didn't feel great in them. Lesson Learned: You can love the color, the style, and how it looks on someone else, but you don't have to buy it! I also started to learn more about fabrics and the need to read descriptions and labels carefully, especially when shopping on line. Although the listing images looked identical, when I bought some follow up cardigans to ones I loved, they arrived made of inferior materials - poly, rayon, spandex blend. These cardigans quickly stretched out, pilled up, and felt terrible on. They didn't breathe well at all since I was basically wearing plastic. Lesson Learned: Don't assume every color of the same style of an item sold from the same place is made of the same material. Always read the labels. Sustainable and Ethical Fashion At the tail end of my 20's I started to learn about ethical and sustainable fashion, something I had never thought about before. I never thought about the "true cost" of all those unbelievably cheap clothing items. I never thought about what fabrics would be better for the environment and even feel better and safer resting against my skin! Not only did this add many layers to deciding what/if to purchase something, but it was a whole new way of thinking which required a greater investment each time. But rather than trying to do everything perfect, I'm really trying to embrace progress over perfection. The most sustainable thing any of us can do is buy intentionally and make good of what we have or do decide to buy. |
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30s
This decade is about letting go and refining. I'm finally ready to let go and not try to force pieces to work for me if they just don't suit me and my lifestyle. I'm excited to refine my closet capsule by capsule and fill wardrobe gaps with quality staple pieces that will last for years and years to come.
What is a closet audit capsule?
I'm merging the concepts! At least in my mind :)
It's a capsule designed to help further audit and curate your closet! Whereas capsule wardrobes are thought of as sections of your already curated wardrobe. I've already been through an overall closet audit (more than once). I've already removed a lot of clothing over the past several years. I'm still in an ongoing auditing phase. There are items I'm struggling with and areas I want to learn more about. I want to hone in on my personal style more. I want to understand why I love the pieces that I love - is it the fabric? the color? the silhouette? And I want to understand why I don't love other pieces that I thought I would when I purchased them. There are some pieces I don't love but haven't been able to let go of yet. I aim to get to the bottom of that. Each month I will curate a Closet Audit Capsule. During that month I will be able to really assess if I want these pieces in my closet going forward. This is a hyper-focused, refining closet audit over a period of time rather than in one day. You should know, while I love keeping it casual and comfy, I also love to dress up, even when I'm stuck at home 24/7 like during this pandemic. So the area I still need to refine most is my dress clothes, which is uncommon for most people. All the principles still apply to whatever style you enjoy wearing! :) At the end of the month I will share an update of my findings! What I learned, what I released, what I'm still stumped on. I'll share wardrobe gaps I've identified and items I'm considering to fill those gaps. Feel free to share your recommendations! I hope you enjoy the journey and that it can help you in any way, but tbh it's just as much for me as for anyone who stumbles on it. |
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Entire Closet Audit Capsule Series:
I invite you to visit my Capsule Wardrobe for the entire closet audit capsule series, items I'mIn Search Of and Clothing reviews from 2021+ to help you make intentional decisions while you curate your wardrobe! See you soon!
Aldi Review Buona Italian Style Gravy & Sliced Beef
Apparently Buona is Chicago's original Italian Beef joint, but I've never been to Chicago so I had no idea! I was drawn to Buona Italian Style Gravy & Sliced Beef at Aldi because it was promoted as all natural, no MSG, no preservatives, no long ingredients lists... sounded like a good option for a decent meal on a busy night!
I ordered the Buona Italian Style Gravy & Sliced Beef at Aldi via Instacart and I believe the 4 lb container cost about $16.99. Be mindful that this container has a lot of liquid inside. Still it fed 2 adults for 4 meals!
Italian Sliced Beef Recipe Ideas
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I could see myself purchasing this again, in a year. It's convenient, respectable ingredients, and was about $2 per person per meal in our house. Definitely slice up some peppers, onions, and mushrooms for optimal enjoyment! Alternatively get some shaved/sliced beef raw and season it up just how you like. One benefit of that is not having this huge container around in your fridge or freezer.
--> Read More Aldi Reviews Here <-- $$ Instacart Discount $$ |
Between the Chocolate Sea Salt Clean Protein Bars and the Peanut Butter Chocolate Clean Protein Bars shown here, the Peanut Butter is my favorite although I really like both of them. I used to unintentionally do intermittent fasting, but some days I had a lot of brain fog. I wanted to test out eating something simple with some protein at the start of my day and so far I feel it has had a positive impact on my productivity and focus! I already bought a second box of the Peanut Butter Clean Protein Bars from Aldi. I'm not sure if they are a limited item or something they carry year round.
Aldi Review Specially Selected Glaze Tasting Pack
I've been making a lot of salads these past few months and I usually drizzle with evoo, salt, pepper, and some balsamic vinegar as my dressing. When I saw this Glaze Tasting Pack from Specially Selected at Aldi during my Instacart Shopping, I decided to give them a try to shake up my salads. Rookie movie. They are laden with less-than-ideal ingredients and colors. I won't repurchase these.
For 24 hours only you can get the Everyday Dress for 30% off!
December 29, 2020 - 9AM EST to December 30, 2020 9AM EST
Canadians Shop Here • US / Global Shop Here
December 29, 2020 - 9AM EST to December 30, 2020 9AM EST
Canadians Shop Here • US / Global Shop Here
The Everyday Dress Reviews - Encircled Clothing
The Everyday Dress by encircled is getting almost all 5 star reviews on their Canadian Store and US/Global Store! With pockets, a reversible neck line, and soft, sustainable fabric it's no wonder this is a staple for errands, the office, parties, or lounging - a dress you can wear every day.
~•~Read More Encircled Clothing Posts and Reviews~•~
Encircled Boxing Week Sale 2020
Do Good & Get A Discount!
In addition to partnering with PACT Urban Peace to donate a box of fresh food for every order received during the sale, you can enjoy these encircled discounts:
December 26th at 12am EST to January 1st at 11:59pm EST $40 OFF orders of $275+ Using code GIFTME40 $90 OFF orders of $450+ Using code GIFTME90 $175 OFF orders of $700+ Using code GIFTME175 |
~•~Read More Encircled Clothing Reviews and Posts~•~
Aldi Nature's Nectar Organic Cold Pressed Juice - Green Blend Review
I was surprised at how pleasant this juice was to drink! There is a bit more texture than I was expected, but elf flavor was good and the ingredients list short. The glass bottle is a keeper for future uses. Definitely would repurchase the Nature's Nectar Organic Cold Pressed Green Blend Juice!
I took advantage of some of Butcherbox's recent Anniversary Member Appreciation Deals as well as their general Member Deals and Add-ons in addition to my standard box and here is the summary:
Butcherbox Custom Classic Box $149
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11.3 lbs
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Butcherbox Add-ons $36
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4 lbs
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Butcherbox Member Deals $125.54
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14 lbs
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Overall Average Cost Per Pound: $10.58
I had a $5 credit in my account (not sure why? but I'm not mad :) lol! ) so my end average cost per pound was $10.40. PLUS I will start seeing the benefit of the "Beef For Life" add on in my next box, making my cost per pound decrease with every future box! I've heard these deals pop up continually and you can stack them so that you end up getting free beef, bacon, chicken etc. in every box you get!
Is Butcherbox is a good deal?
This is only my second box and I am still formulating my opinion. I definitely like that I am accessing much better quality of meat than I can get at a lot of local grocery stores. The final average cost per pound is also better than I can get at my local grocery store in this particular order. I think you can make Butcherbox a really good value if you choose strategically and look out for deals and take advantage of the best deals. Getting the box is like a special membership that gives you access to lower priced items. That helps lower your overall cost per pound. Also, if you know you can add on a package of bacon for just $7, then you may skip out on choosing it as one of your main box selections and instead choose a more costly cut of meat ;-).
Stay tuned for more Butcherbox Reviews and moneysaving tips!
Aldi Review - Specially Selected Italian Torta Blueberry
Aldi's Specially Selected Blueberry Italian Torta is an absolutely delicious and indulgent treat. The combination of a cheesecake (mascarpone, not cream cheese) with the golden cake makes it less heavy than a traditional cheese cake, yet more special than a plain cake. Then there is what is reminiscent of a coffee cake comb topping. It's like taking a piece of 3 very different delicious treats and merging them perfectly!
Aldi has a Specially Selected Smoked Gouda Macaroni and Cheese
Specially Selected Smoked Gouda Macaroni Cheese Aldi Review - Nutrition Facts & Ingredients
Specially Selected Smoked Gouda Macaroni Cheese Aldi Review - Nutrition Facts & Ingredients
Specially Selected Smoked Gouda Macaroni Cheese Aldi Review - Nutrition Facts & Ingredients
The overall taste of Aldi Specially Selected Smoked Gouda Macaroni and Cheese was pretty good and paired with the Specially Selected Boardwalk Style Crabcakes from Aldi (review here). I don't love the use of "artificial flavors" so I won't be repurchasing this product.
Aldi has two varieties of Specially Selected Crusted Flounder currently available
Coconut Top Crusted Flounder and Macadamia Nut Top Crusted Flounder
--> Read More Aldi Reviews Here <--
$$ Instacart Discount $$
Coconut Top Crusted Flounder and Macadamia Nut Top Crusted Flounder
--> Read More Aldi Reviews Here <--
$$ Instacart Discount $$
Specially Selected Coconut Top Crusted Flounder & Specially Selected Macadamia Nut Top Crusted Flounder Aldi Review + Ingredient List & Cooking Instructions
Both varieties of Specially Selected Crusted Flounder from Aldi have similar ingredient lists. Of course one has a savory topping and the other is topped with dried tropical fruits.
Cooking Aldi Specially Selected Coconut Top Crusted Flounder & Macadamia Nut Top Crusted Flounder
Cooking the frozen flounder from Aldi was quite simple. I placed it on a cast iron skillet and popped it into my Breville convention oven at 425F for 16-18 minutes.
Aldi Specially Selected Coconut Top Crusted Flounder & Macadamia Nut Top Crusted Flounder
The Specially Selected Coconut Top Crusted Flounder and Macadamia Nut Top Crusted Flounder were both really tasty. They made dinner easy on a busy work day. The price on Instacart was $6.99 per package (4 servings). This was my first experience cooking flounder at home and I really liked the taste of the fish.
Going forward, I probably would not re-purchase these frozen meals due to the additives and the artificial flavors listed in the ingredients.
Have you tried the Specially Selected Coconut Top Crusted Flounder or Macadamia Nut Top Crusted Flounder?
Going forward, I probably would not re-purchase these frozen meals due to the additives and the artificial flavors listed in the ingredients.
Have you tried the Specially Selected Coconut Top Crusted Flounder or Macadamia Nut Top Crusted Flounder?
Aldi Review - Kung Pao Chicken Stir Fry Kit
What's Inside: Aldi Review - Kung Pao Chicken Stir Fry Kit
Inside the Kung Pao Chicken Stir Fry Kit is a package of pre-cooked, chopped chicken, parboiled (I assume) rice, sauce, and the cutest container of peanuts ever.
Cooking Aldi's Kung Pao Chicken Stir Fry Kit
Right away I was not into the idea of nuking the rice bag Ian the microwave. As you can see I also added some fresh veg to the mix. I sautéed some chopped red onion, then added the rice and a bit of water and covered the pan with a ventilated cover (sort oflike this but mine is metal) That way the rice could steam a bit. Then I added the green peppers chicken and sauce.
Aldi's Kung Pao Chicken Stir Fry Kit Review
The overall flavor was tasty. I am glad I added the fresh produce to balance it out and just make it feel a bit more nourishing. The package says it serves 4 and that is a far stretch. We are two small-to- average sized adults and it was just enough for us, including the add ins. If you don't know how to cook and want some variety of flavor without having to get take out this may be good for you. I'll be passing on this in the future, though.
Aldi Review Appetitos Caramelized Onion and Gouda Puff Pastry
Can you ever go wrong with puff pastries? Caramelized onions? Gouda?
It seems nearly impossible for this combination to go wrong.
It seems nearly impossible for this combination to go wrong.
Nutrition Facts, Ingredients, and Preparation Instructions for Appetitos Puff Pastries
Aldi Appetitios Caramelized Onion and Gouda Puff Pastry Bites Review
Aldi Appetitios Caramelized Onion and Gouda Puff Pastry Bites on the cast iron skillet about to go in the convection oven! Confession: These were so good that I never got a pic of them out of the oven. I ate one as a tester and then another as a tester. Before I knew it they were gone! Flavor and texture are excellent and the puff pastry is perfect! These would be great to pick up for your next wine and app night in - Netflix and chill! Definite BUY on this! $4.79 on Instacart |
In order to make the famed Buffalo Chicken Dip, I had to order some more hot sauce since my Red Hot was low. As you can see the ingredient list is pretty similar although Aldi's brand contains Xantham Gum and no water. In a side by side taste Frank's had more depth to the flavor even though the ingredients are basically the same. Still, Burman's Hot Sauce is a suitable replacement in a pinch!
Right now at Aldi you can try Priano Wild Mushroom Ravioli in the dry foods/pasta section.
--> Read More Aldi Reviews Here <--
$$ Instacart Discount $$
--> Read More Aldi Reviews Here <--
$$ Instacart Discount $$
Aldi Review Priano Wild Mushroom Raviolini Nutrition Facts & Cooking Instructions
Aldi Review Priano Wild Mushroom Raviolini Ingredient List
"artificial cheese flavor" ... ick!
Aldi Review Priano Wild Mushroom Raviolini - What's In The Box
Inside the Priano Wild Mushroom Raviolini box you will find a plastic bag with the raviolini and a foil sealed pouch with the sauce/flavor powder.
Aldi Review Priano Wild Mushroom Raviolini - Cooking
After bringing water and both pouches to a boil, you turn the heat down to medium and let the raviolini cook for 18-20 minutes. As you can see I added some fresh baby Bella mushrooms to make myself feel better about this lol
Aldi Review Priano Wild Mushroom Raviolini
Once again, the flavor was actually pretty good, but I couldn't get the "artificial cheese flavor" and other ingredients out of my mind when eating the Priano Wild Mushroom Raviolini, so I won't be repurchasing this Aldi find.