Posts about Chicago

Summer Grilling Inspiration at Coast at Lakeshore East-image

Summer has officially arrived at Coast at Lakeshore East, and it's time to take advantage of the warm weather by heading outdoors and firing up the grill! Our community grill is the perfect place to enjoy the sun, create delicious food, and connect with your neighbors. Whether you're a seasoned grill master or a grilling beginner, here are some inspirational ideas to help you create mouthwatering meals and unforgettable memories this summer!  Embrace Seasonal Ingredients   One of the best parts of summer grilling is the access to fresh, seasonal produce. Incorporate these vibrant ingredients into your meal plan with grill dishes that are both delicious and nutritious. Just think about the juicy tomatoes, crisp bell peppers, sweet corn, and flavorful herbs.   Visit local farmers' markets or nearby grocery stores to stock up on fresh, in-season fruits and vegetables .  Luckily, Chicago has some amazing seasonal farmer’s markets.  Logan Square Farmers Market , Green City Market , and Northcenter Town Square are just three out of the dozens of available summer farmer’s markets.    Simple and Delicious Marinades   A good marinade can transform your grilled dishes from ordinary to extraordinary. Mix up a few simple marinades using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Here are some easy ideas:  Citrus Herb Marinade: Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, fresh thyme, and rosemary for a bright and zesty flavor.   Spicy BBQ Marinade: Mix your favorite BBQ sauce with a splash of hot sauce and a pinch of brown sugar for a sweet and spicy kick.  Asian-Inspired Marinade: Blend soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey for a savory and slightly sweet taste.   Mix Up Your Proteins   While burgers and hot dogs are classic grilling staples, don't be afraid to experiment with different proteins! Grilled chicken, steak, and seafood (like shrimp and salmon) are excellent choices that can add variety to your meals.   For vegetarian diets, there are a lot of great meat alternatives and protein rich vegetable that cook amazingly on the grill.  Foods like portobello mushrooms, tofu, veggie burgers, and other meat alternatives work great.  Veggie Delights   Grilled vegetables are not only healthy but also taste incredible. Try skewering a colorful array of vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions. While they taste great grilled on their own, try brushing them with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill until they're tender and slightly charred. For added flavor, finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.  Grilled veggies also pair great with other dishes like pasta, salads, or even on homemade pizzas!  Level up date night or your next get together with a side of delicious fresh produce.      Fruits on the Grill   Grilled fruit is a summertime treat that's often overlooked. Pineapple, peaches, and watermelon can all be grilled to enhance their natural sweetness. Serve them as a side dish, create a delicious kebab, use it to top salads, or make a sweet dessert by pairing your fruit with a scoop of ice cream.  If you want something a little more challenging, try something from this extensive list of ideas!  Fun with Foil Packs   If you’re worried about managing clean up at our community grill, foil packs are a fantastic way to cook with more minimal post-meal clean up. Simply place your choice of protein, vegetables, and seasonings in a foil packet, seal it tightly, and grill until everything is cooked through. Some delicious combinations include:  Shrimp, Corn, and Sausage: Add shrimp, sliced sausage, corn on the cob, and potatoes with a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning.   Chicken and Veggies: Combine chicken breasts with sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, seasoned with Italian herbs.   Sweet Endings   Don't forget about dessert! Grilling can also be a fantastic way to create sweet treats. Try grilling slices of pound cake and topping them with grilled fruit and a dollop of whipped cream. More great options include s'mores, sweet pizzas, skewers, and more!    If you don’t want any of that smokey grill flavor in your dessert, you can also bring out your cast iron skillet to cook a deliciously warm dessert.  Skillets also keep gooey ingredients more contained for easier clean up!    Make It a Social Event   Grilling at Coast at Lakeshore East is more than just cooking; it's about community. Invite your neighbors, friends, and family to join you for a fun and relaxed gathering. Share your favorite recipes, swap grilling tips, and enjoy the experience that comes with cooking and eating together.  Tips for a Great Grilling Experience   Plan Ahead : Ensure you have all necessary ingredients and tools before heading to the grill.   Stay Safe: Always practice safe grilling techniques, including keeping a spray bottle of water handy to manage flare-ups.   Clean Up: Respect our community space by cleaning the grill and surrounding area after you're done.  This summer, let your creativity shine at the grill and make the most of the wonderful amenities at Coast at Lakeshore East. Happy grilling!  

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4 Ways to Celebrate National Pancake Day-image

February 28 th is the official date for 2024’s National Pancake Day, and this delicious holiday should be on every breakfast lover’s radar.  Due to their simplicity, pancakes have been around longer than you may expect.  Some estimate that pancakes originated as far back as the Stone Age , and it was a dish enjoyed by Ancient Romans, Shakespeare, and more! Pancakes are loved by many and carry a lot of relevance in different cultures around the world. In fact, they’re so loved that IHOP carves out a separate day each year to celebrate – this means two chances each year to indulge in National Pancake Day activities!  There are so many ways to enjoy pancakes that everyone is sure to find a way to take part in this holiday.  Below are just a couple of ways to celebrate this year.  Find A Restaurant With Pancake Deals While IHOP won’t have their special discounts till their brand’s recognized Pancake Day, that doesn’t mean that other breakfast locations won’t have special deals.  Local breakfast spots in Lakeshore East like Wildberry and the Eggy’s Diner both have amazing pancakes on their menu.  It’s always great to shop local and celebrating National Pancake Day might create the perfect opportunity to try a new -or return to a local favorite- restaurant.  Throw A Pancake Day Party From an extensive pancake bar, an adorable charcuterie board, or a simple get together, the opportunities are endless for a pancake party!  Get the kids, coworkers, or besties involved for a fun breakfast-themed meal.  Enjoy An Alternative Pancake Option From protein-packed to Nutella-filled, the world of pancakes has never been so diverse.  Head to Pinterest or social media for inspiration, and consider trying a brand-new take on the classic pancake.  For example, this cinnamon bun pancake recipe looks like a delicious way to try something different.  Try A New Way of Topping Your Pancake Syrup and butter might be a classic that can’t be beat, but there are a ton of different ways to top your pancake.  From covered in candy to savory, consider trying something new!  It might even be educational to learn how countries around the world top their pancakes.  Ultimately, we hope you take some time out of your week to indulge in this fun holiday.  Pancakes may be simple at their core, but National Pancake Day can help you enjoy time with loved ones, reimagine a childhood classic, and learn more about cultures around the world.   

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Martin Luther King, Jr. and His National Day of Service-image

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, what are you doing for others?” - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King’s contributions, the third Monday of January is celebrated as a "National Day of Service." This day serves as a reminder that we all play a role in creating a better world, whether through volunteering, raising funds or participating in small acts of kindness.  In Chicago and at our Morguard communities, there are numerous opportunities to engage in meaningful service on MLK Day and year-round.   Finding Ways to Give Back Volunteer Websites Websites like VolunteerMatch allow you to search for volunteer opportunities based on location, cause, and skills. VolunteerMatch makes it easy to find projects that align with your interests and availability.   Connect directly with Local Nonprofits Many organizations welcome volunteers and can provide information about ongoing projects or specific needs on their websites.   Consider Participating In Coast at Lakeshore East’s Charitable Initiatives Our Morguard communities nationwide actively engage in initiatives such as holiday donation drives and fundraising for organizations like the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Connect with our team to discover how residents can participate in these meaningful initiatives.   Remember that every small action has the power to create a lasting impact in our neighborhoods. Together, we can continue to build a community that reflects the values that Dr. King advocated for throughout his life.  

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