
This week was dreadfully long, which I must say, is a mixed blessing. Slow weeks are always hard if you’re itching to get to the weekend. But, on the other hand, If you’re dreading the commencement of the Fall semester like I am, then a slow week is actually a good thing. I have a month of freedom left, and I couldn’t be more depressed about it. I will never understand how other people my age are so excited to go back. I do not even remotely look forward to spending every waking moment either in class or doing homework/writing papers, getting no sleep, and being riddled with anxiety 24/7. It is, quite frankly, hell. This is why Food Network or the like needs to hire me, so I can say, “Peace out, college!” and go do what I really love.
For the time being, I choose to be realistic and responsible. Life is tough.
But enough about my hatred for college. Let’s get down to what really matters: food. This week was full of wonderful recipes, from a healthy take on an Italian favorite to a cake shaped like a turtle. Time to break it down!
Let’s review, shall we?
- Healthy Cookie: Eggplant Rollantini
This Italian favorite gets lightened up, so you can have cheesy goodness without the guilt.
- Turtle Cake + How-To Video
A super cute, super easy cake that’s sure to put a smile on your face, complete with a how-to video.
- Spinach Penne Salad with White Wine Vinaigrette
The first ever salad on Smart Cookie!
- 2 for 1: Roasted Eggplant Hummus & Avocado Hummus
That’s right, two incredible hummus recipes in one post!
- S’mores Rice Krispie Treats
Because, sometimes, you’ve just got to embrace your inner kid.
Speaking of Rice Krispies, something incredible happened to me while I was at the grocery store today. I was strolling through the cereal aisle, casually glancing at the colorful, cartoon-covered boxes, when all of a sudden, a purple box caught my eye. I had seen this box before, but it was many, many years ago. Until now, I thought I would never see it again. But there it was: Rice Krispie Treats Cereal.

I am not talking about Rice Krispie Cereal; this is Rice Krispie Treats Cereal. It’s basically like crispier Rice Krispie Treats, crumbled up into bite-sized pieces, and it’s one of the most amazing cereals ever created. I have vivid memories of munching on handfuls of the crunchy stuff as a kid, but somewhere along the line, Rice Krispie Treats Cereal disappeared, and I could no longer find it in stores. Running into it today was like seeing an old friend who I thought I’d never see again.
It was a glorious reunion.
Naturally, I snatched up a box and broke into it as soon as I got home. I didn’t bother with milk, just ate it in handfuls. It was the same sweet & crunchy bunches I remembered. Just like Rice Krispie Treats, only less chewy. It’s a magical cereal, and if you like Rice Krispies, then I urge you to give it a try.
Now, I know you’re dying to know what’s coming up next week, so let’s get to it. I’ll be dishing out a review of a new boxed muffin mix on the market. Then, get your spoons ready, because I’m scooping up an indulgent twist on ice cream that takes on one of my favorite desserts.
Plus, on Monday, you can check out a brand new video featuring a very helpful how-to on a common kitchen technique, plus a recipe for an essential sauce! But here’s a secret, you can watch the video right now on my Youtube channel if you don’t feel like waiting. Make sure you subscribe!
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I hope you’re hungry, because we’ve got a tasty week coming up.





Smile. I’m sending good thoughts your way. I know how tough school can be. I’m about to begin my 3rd year of graduate school. Ah! But I know we’ll both make it! All this food is making me hungry though. Time to eat!
I can’t relate, but my daughter sure can. She goes back in September, and like you, she’s already dreading it. I think Food Network should hire you too so you can strike it rich doing what you love!