New Year, Old Me and The Cozy Snowy Days Around it | Cleaning ❄️ Apples on Toast ❄️Delicious Dinners

In a world where we constantly talk about “new beginnings” and fresh starts, I’ve come to realize something important—nothing has magically changed, even though the calendar flipped over.
I’m the same old me, still moving through the days with a quiet rhythm, finding comfort in simplicity, and savoring the small, everyday moments and leaning into what feels familiar. From tidying up after Christmas to baking something simple, these routines aren’t mundane—they’re the foundation of peace and contentment. Join me as I reflect on embracing who I already am, finding joy in what’s already around me, and welcoming the new year with intentionality and gratitude.

❤️For those who are interested to have the recipes: HERE BELOW👇

🥗🥗🥰Tomato and Pomegranate Salad (Serves 2)
Ingredients
🍅Tomatoes:
¾ cup (100 g) red cherry tomatoes, diced into ¼-inch (5 mm) pieces
¾ cup (100 g) yellow cherry tomatoes, diced into ¼-inch (5 mm) pieces
¾ cup (100 g) tiger or plum tomatoes, diced into ¼-inch (5 mm) pieces
½ lb (250 g) medium slicing tomatoes (about 2–3), diced into ¼-inch (5 mm) pieces
½ red pepper, diced into ¼-inch (5 mm) pieces (½ cup/60 g)
½ small red onion, finely diced (about ⅓ cup/60 g)
1 clove garlic, crushed
¼ teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
¾ tablespoon pomegranate molasses
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for finishing
½ large pomegranate, seeds removed (½ cup/85 g)
1½ teaspoons small oregano leaves (fresh)
Salt, to taste
🥗Instructions
Mix the Vegetables:

In a medium bowl, combine all the diced tomatoes, red pepper, and red onion. Set aside.
Prepare the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the crushed garlic, ground allspice, white wine vinegar, pomegranate molasses, olive oil, and a pinch of salt until well blended.
Combine Salad and Dressing:

Pour the dressing over the tomato mixture and gently toss to combine.
Plate and Garnish:

Arrange the tomato mixture and its juices on a serving plate. Scatter the pomegranate seeds and oregano leaves on top.
Drizzle with a little extra olive oil for a finishing touch.
Serve: WITH FISH

🐠Baked Fish with Yellow Mustard and 🍋Lemon Pepper Spice
(Serves 2)
🍋🐠Ingredients
2 fish fillets (e.g., cod, tilapia, or salmon, about 6 oz each)
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
1 teaspoon lemon pepper spice blend
1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon breadcrumbs (optional, for added texture)
Salt, to taste
Lemon wedges and parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Prepare the Mustard Coating:
In a small bowl, mix the yellow mustard, lemon pepper spice, olive oil, garlic powder, and lemon juice until well combined.
Season the Fish:

Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and lightly season them with salt.
Coat the Fish:
Place the fish fillets in the prepared baking dish. Using a spoon or brush, spread the mustard mixture evenly over the top of each fillet. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them lightly over the mustard-coated fish for extra texture.
Bake the Fish:
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Garnish and Serve:

🍎🍎✨ Toast with Everything Bagel Seasoning, Honey, and Cream Cheese
(Serves 2)

Ingredients
2 slices of bread (sourdough, whole-grain, or your favorite)
4 tablespoons cream cheese (softened)
1 medium apple (sweet or tart variety like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), thinly sliced
2 teaspoons honey (or to taste)
1 teaspoon everything bagel seasoning
Optional garnish: a pinch of cinnamon or fresh mint leaves
ENJOY!
Serve immediately and enjoy this sweet-and-savory treat!
This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack. The combination of creamy, sweet, salty, and tangy flavors makes it a delightful twist on traditional toast. 🍎✨

Stay Calm. Stay safe.
Arlesa ❤️

My quiet life in Tennessee…

…in bits and pieces, expressed through food, things, places, quotes and poetry.

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