The colors are already thinking about spring. The coat is making sure you don’t freeze before it gets here.
The post The Outfit for When You’re Done With Winter But Winter Isn’t Done With You appeared first on Primer.
Category: Uncategorized
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The Outfit for When You’re Done With Winter But Winter Isn’t Done With You
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Flagler Village Finds Its Rhythm
What makes a great nighttime destination in downtown Fort Lauderdale?
An old church. A serious steak. Live music that refuses to be background noise.
Jay’s Steakhouse, a high-end supper club housed inside a Romanesque stone church in Flagler Village, is built on a simple premise: dinner is only the first act.
The preserved gray-stone exterior gives way to a warm, cinematic interior layered in wood and leather, where lighting deepens as the evening unfolds. The soaring ceiling of the former nave remains intact, lending the room grandeur without sacrificing intimacy. Former stained-glass windows have been reimagined as multicolored glass installations engineered to withstand hurricane season, maintaining drama while modernizing the space.
The menu reads like a modern steakhouse greatest-hits list, anchored by serious cuts of beef, including A5 Miyazaki Wagyu Picanha ($275). A prime rib trolley glides tableside. Lobster spaghetti arrives glossy and decadent. Robuchon-style potatoes land impossibly smooth, whipped with butter and cream until they verge on silken. Seafood towers and composed starters add structure, while a wine list that stretches comfortably into four figures signals the room’s ambition.
On a recent Friday, diners pivoted in their seats as Tori & Will took the stage. Backed by a full band, Tori Rossi — five feet tall, all presence — moved seamlessly through pop, R&B, and rock covers with theatrical ease. She sang, danced, and calibrated her energy to the room, building momentum without overwhelming it.
Will, originally from Cuba, provides a steady counterbalance, layering harmony and guitar over Rossi’s dynamism. Together they move fluidly between nostalgia and contemporary hits, creating the kind of show that encourages guests to linger past dessert.
Other evenings bring performers such as Goldie Heart, DJ Kastle with live instrumentation, and even a fire performer. The programming feels deliberate rather than decorative. This is not music meant to be politely ignored. It is part of the architecture of the night.
Acoustics in the nave — where the band performs from the former apse — are remarkably balanced. Sound carries clearly without drowning out conversation, a rare feat in hybrid restaurant venues. Guests can lean into the show or retreat into an adjacent dining area depending on mood. The experience shifts organically as the room fills and the tempo rises.
The building itself carries a layered past. Originally constructed in the early 1920s as St. Anthony’s, the first Catholic church in Broward County, it was later relocated and acquired by a Lutheran congregation. Today, the exterior is designated historic by the city of Fort Lauderdale, meaning its stone façade remains protected even as the interior evolves.
As the evening progresses, the rhythm changes. Early dinner guests sip cocktails beneath cathedral ceilings. By nine o’clock, napkins are folded aside and chairs subtly angle toward the stage. By ten, the show becomes the gravitational center of the room.
The format feels closer to a New York supper club or a London live lounge than a traditional South Florida restaurant. The music does not interrupt dinner. It elevates it. Energy builds in waves, carried as much by the band as by the clink of glassware and the glide of servers navigating the floor.
For guests, the appeal is simple. There is no need to plan a second stop. No scramble for the next bar. The night unfolds where you are, layered course by course, song by song.
And when the lights dim just a little further and the chorus hits, you realize the destination was never just dinner.
The post Flagler Village Finds Its Rhythm appeared first on Lifestyle Media Group.
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Behind Closed Doors
Speakeasies were once defined by necessity. Concealment was the point, discretion the currency. Today, that same architecture of secrecy has been repurposed by choice. The most compelling nights now begin with a door you were not meant to notice, a staircase you pause before climbing, a bar hidden just far enough away to feel earned rather than staged.
The modern speakeasy has grown up. Less costume, more craft. Less wink, more intention. Nowhere is that evolution clearer than inside three apothecary-inspired hideaways redefining how Fort Lauderdale and Miami drink after dark.
The Apothecary 330
Alchemy on Himmarshee
Tucked inside Pizza Craft on downtown Fort Lauderdale’s Himmarshee Street, The Apothecary 330 feels like a secret passed hand to hand. Step inside and the noise of downtown softens, replaced by warm lighting, intimate proportions, and a bar program that treats cocktails less as commodities and more as ritual.
True to its name, the menu leans into elixirs, tonics, and layered flavors that feel restorative as much as indulgent. The Buzzing Moon balances Barr Hill Gin with passion fruit, coconut, and lemon for something tropical yet restrained. The Fizz, made with Grey Whale Gin, pumpkin chai, aquafaba, and citrus, feels velvety and seasonal, a cocktail that rewards patience.
For guests craving a touch of drama, the Tiki Drink arrives with a flame garnish that adds spectacle without novelty. Classics are executed with equal respect, from a polished espresso martini to a bramble that tastes exactly as it should. The tableside Old Fashioned cart is the final flourish, allowing guests to customize their pour with fine spirits, garnishes, and smoking options.
Perhaps the most charming detail is the seamless pairing with Pizza Craft’s Italian kitchen. Decadent bites turn a nightcap into a lingering evening, the kind downtown Fort Lauderdale has quietly been craving.
pizzacraftpizzeria.com/apothecary
Freddy’s Speakeasy
Prohibition with a participatory twist
Hidden inside a ballroom at the InterContinental Miami, Freddy’s Speakeasy does not rely on mystery alone. Instead, it invites guests to cross the threshold and take part. This Prohibition-style hideaway doubles as an immersive mixology experience, blurring the line between nightlife and performance.
The evening begins with a welcome cocktail before guests are handed a full mixology kit and guided through a hands-on class led by Freddy’s expert bartenders. Techniques are taught, ratios explained, and by the end, guests are shaking and stirring with confidence. It is informative without being precious, playful without losing polish.
Once the lesson ends, the room settles into its true speakeasy mood. Low lighting, vintage details, and the feeling of being tucked away from the rest of the hotel transform the space into a proper escape. Guests enjoy a second cocktail, this time simply as imbibers, fully immersed in the atmosphere they helped create.
Reservations are available exclusively through BucketListers, with two-hour seatings at 8PM and 10:30PM. Access details are revealed only after booking, preserving the sense of secrecy that defines the experience. Freddy’s is not about being seen. It is about discovery and the pleasure of learning something new after dark.
Bar Betty
A grand reveal above the supper club
Above Sunness Supper Club on East Sunrise Boulevard, Bar Betty feels like a slow burn finally ignited. Restaurateur Michael Stanley knew the second floor held promise the moment he toured the space. Nearly a year after Sunness debuted, its long-anticipated speakeasy counterpart has arrived, and it feels fully realized.
Accessed via a discreet staircase or elevator, Bar Betty begins with a foyer nodding to the building’s former life as Jade Palace. Red lanterns glow softly. Dragon wallpaper sets a cinematic tone. A monumental stone Buddha, rescued from the original space and restored, anchors the room with quiet authority.
Then comes the turn. Guests pass through a red door into a Gatsby-inspired lounge where black walls, tin ceilings, and Art Deco motifs create a moody, theatrical backdrop. Live entertainment leans old-world and seductive, from Roaring Twenties-style torch singers to a Thursday burlesque show that favors elegance over excess.
The cocktail menu matches the setting. James and the Spicy Peach blends Ghost tequila, Ancho Reyes, citrus, and peach syrup for a bold but balanced sip. Fluffy Dream layers gin, apricot liqueur, elderflower, and aquafaba into something airy and indulgent. Bar Betty also delivers thoughtfully composed non-alcoholic options, including the Black Betty with Black Market THC Liquor, guava purée, and lime.
Named for Stanley’s grandmother, Bar Betty carries a sense of lineage and intention. Personal without sentimentality, glamorous without trying too hard.
sunnesssupperclub.com/bar-betty
The New Language of Nightlife
Together, The Apothecary 330, Freddy’s Speakeasy, and Bar Betty signal a quieter evolution in South Florida nightlife, rooms that reward curiosity and taste where the real thrill lies not in being seen, but in knowing where to go and what awaits once the door closes behind you.
The post Behind Closed Doors appeared first on Lifestyle Media Group.
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11 Great Reader Comments on TV
Has anyone seen this show Heated Rivalry? I’M KIDDING. It’s peak season for indoor activities, like TV binging and movie nights (and ice hockey, and…other things).… Read more
The post 11 Great Reader Comments on TV appeared first on Cup of Jo.
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11 Great Reader Comments on TV
Has anyone seen this show Heated Rivalry? I’M KIDDING. It’s peak season for indoor activities, like TV binging and movie nights (and ice hockey, and…other things).… Read more
The post 11 Great Reader Comments on TV appeared first on Cup of Jo.
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The Prettiest Spring Decor from Amazon
With signs of blue skies, flowers blooming, and sunshine on the horizon, we’re starting to decorate our homes for Spring, all from Amazon! From faux florals and printed pillowcases to the prettiest artwork for Spring, take a look at our latest Spring finds for bringing the season into you home!
Candle Stick // Gold Candle Holder // Bird Figurine
Ceramic Vase // Pink Tulips [in dusty pink]
Similar Bird Figurine // Bunny Picture // Similar Bunny Picture
Battery Operated Candles // Gold Candle Holder
Framed Floral Print // Bunny Figurine // Blue Candle
Napkin // Rattan Napkin Ring // Dinner Plate // Rattan Placemats
Checkered Napkins // Rattan Napkin Ring // Dinner Plate // Rattan Placemats
Candle // Bunny Figurines // Call It Home Book // A Welcome Home Book
Faux Cherry Blossom Stems // Candle // Bunny Figurines // Call It Home Book // A Welcome Home Book
Faux Tulips [40-piece, orange suit] // Clear Glass Vase // Candle
Tall Ceramic Vase // Faux Hydrangeas // Blue Candle
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Ruggable Review from a Rug Snob (I Finally Tried One)
Look, I’ll just say it: I’m a rug snob. I love rugs and how they transform a room. I’m picky about designs, and I’m picky about how they feel underfoot. I’ve spent thousands on rugs, authentic wool rugs, and vintage rugs. I’ve also invested in mass-produced rugs from designers. So when Ruggable started showing up everywhere in my Instagram feed, I was skeptical. Machine-washable rugs? Sure, but at what cost?
I finally got one. And then another. So here’s my completely honest Ruggable review, rug snobbery and all.
What Are Ruggable Rugs?
If you found this post, I’m sure you’re familiar with Ruggable, known for its machine-washable rugs. The system works in two parts: a thin, printed rug cover and a grippy rug pad that stays on your floor. When the rug gets dirty (and it will, especially if you have kids or a kitchen), you just peel off the cover, toss it in your washing machine, and put it back. That’s it.
They come in many different sizes, from small accent rugs all the way up to 9×12 and even round rugs. The pattern selection is quite impressive. They have everything from neutral Moroccan-inspired designs to bold, colorful prints. They’re also available in different pile heights, including some flatter weaves and a few that mimic a thicker feel.
Ruggable rugs are made from a polyester blend, which is part of why they’re washable. They’re priced from around $100 on the lower end up to several hundred dollars for larger sizes.
Ruggable Review: Pros and Cons of Ruggable Washable Rugs
Let me break this down honestly, because there are real pros and cons here, and I think these will help you determine if a Ruggable rug is for you.
The Pros
They’re machine washable. This really does change things. It’s obviously the whole point, and it delivers. If you have kids, dogs, or a messy kitchen (hi, all three), being able to throw your rug in the wash is a game-changer. When I was testing our new Ruggable runner to see how it would look in our kitchen, I laid it over our wool one, and of course, that’s when a red wine spill happened. The wine came out of the Ruggable with no problem, but unfortunately, there’s a lingering stain on the wool rug even after professional cleaning. Lesson learned: the Ruggable survived without a trace.
The pattern selection is extensive. I was honestly surprised. There are hundreds of options, and they’ve clearly put effort into keeping up with design trends. I found several patterns I genuinely loved and would have considered for any rug purchase.
They’re softer underfoot than I expected. Before I ordered, I assumed they’d feel flat and cheap. They don’t, at least not in the way I feared. They have a softness to them that’s pleasant to walk on, and the pile options give you a bit of variety depending on the look you’re going for.
They work well in high-traffic areas. This is probably where they shine brightest. Whether it’s the kitchen, hallway, kids’ room, a mudroom, or anywhere that a rug is going to take a beating, a Ruggable makes practical sense. I even got this fun Calloway Multicolored Rug for my office since it gets a lot of foot traffic, and it’s fabulous.
They actually stay in place. This surprised me the most. The rug pad system works better than I expected. My old wool runner in the kitchen would shift constantly, and I was forever straightening it. My Ruggable hasn’t moved. The two-piece system, which I thought might be annoying, is actually the reason it stays so flat and secure.
The Cons
They won’t hold up the way a quality wool rug will. A well-made wool rug can last decades. I don’t expect the same from a Ruggable. That’s not a knock; it’s part of the reality of the material, and since the material is different, the longevity will be different too.
They’re thinner than most traditional rugs. Even the thicker pile options don’t have the weight and substance of a traditional area rug. If you’re used to walking on a dense wool rug, this will feel noticeably different.
Affordable, but not exactly cheap. This is a relative thing, but I want to be honest: Ruggables aren’t the budget buy some people seem to expect. A large size will still run you several hundred dollars. For that price, you can find traditional rugs, though obviously without the washable feature.
The feel underfoot gives it away. I want to be transparent here: it doesn’t feel like a wool rug. While our Ruggable rug is very soft, there’s a different quality to it that you’d notice if you were comparing the two side by side. It’s not bad; it’s just different, and if you’re expecting it to mimic a high-end traditional rug, you might be slightly disappointed.
Where I Actually Use Ruggable Rugs (And Where I Don’t)
Here’s my honest take after living with them: Ruggable rugs have earned a real place in my home, just not every room.
I love them in high-traffic areas where practicality has to win. The kitchen is the obvious choice. Kids’ rooms are another. My home office is a spot where I didn’t want to invest a lot, and a Ruggable works perfectly there. It looks great, does the job, and I don’t stress about it.
But for the rooms that really matter to me visually, like my living room, I still prefer a traditional rug. There’s a quality and warmth to a well-made wool or natural fiber rug that just isn’t replicable in a washable format yet. For me, that trade-off isn’t worth it in the spaces where the rug is a real design statement.
The dining room is an interesting middle ground. Right now, I have a traditional rug there, and I love it. But we use that space mostly for hosting. If it were the main place my boys ate every single day, I might feel very differently. The washability would start to outweigh the aesthetic difference pretty quickly, I would think.
Ruggable FAQs
Can you put Ruggable rugs in any washing machine?
You’ll need a front-loading or top-loading machine without an agitator. Larger sizes require a commercial washer (most laundromats work great). Always check the sizing guide on Ruggable’s website before ordering.
How often can you wash a Ruggable?
As often as you need to, which is kind of the point. Ruggable says the rugs are designed to be washed regularly without breaking down.
Do Ruggable rugs fade after washing?
I haven’t noticed any fading after two washes, and most reviews I’ve seen say the colors hold up well over time.
Do Ruggable rugs work with underfloor heating?
Yes. The rug pad is designed to be compatible with radiant floor heating systems.
Can you use a Ruggable rug pad with a different rug cover?
The rug pad and cover are designed to work together as a system, so they’re not interchangeable with other brands.
Are Ruggable Rugs Good Quality?
For what they are, yes. It’s important to frame this question correctly, though. Ruggable rugs are not trying to compete with high-end traditional rugs. They’re washable, pattern-forward, and family-friendly. Within that category, they deliver. It’s a solid rug pad system that holds up in the wash. Go in with realistic expectations, and you’ll likely be happy.
My honest take: they’re well-made for what they are, and “what they are” is genuinely useful.
Are Ruggable Rugs Toxic?
This is a question I looked into before buying, because I have kids on the floor constantly, and it matters to me. Here’s what I found:
Ruggable rugs are OEKO-TEX certified, meaning they’ve been tested for harmful substances and pass safety standards. No formaldehyde, no PVC in the pad. They are synthetic (polyester), so if you’re strictly a natural-materials household, that’s worth noting, but from a toxicity standpoint, the certification is meaningful.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it. My full Ruggable review, rug snobbery intact. Are they my dream rug? No. Are they genuinely useful and well-designed for the right spaces? Absolutely. I’m keeping mine, and I’d buy another for the right room.
If you’re on the fence, my advice is simple: don’t use one as a substitute for a rug you really care about, but absolutely use one anywhere practicality matters more than perfection.
Turn on your JavaScript to view contentThe post Ruggable Review from a Rug Snob (I Finally Tried One) appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.
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Ruggable Review from a Rug Snob (I Finally Tried One)
Look, I’ll just say it: I’m a rug snob. I love rugs and how they transform a room. I’m picky about designs, and I’m picky about how they feel underfoot. I’ve spent thousands on rugs, authentic wool rugs, and vintage rugs. I’ve also invested in mass-produced rugs from designers. So when Ruggable started showing up everywhere in my Instagram feed, I was skeptical. Machine-washable rugs? Sure, but at what cost?
I finally got one. And then another. So here’s my completely honest Ruggable review, rug snobbery and all.
What Are Ruggable Rugs?
If you found this post, I’m sure you’re familiar with Ruggable, known for its machine-washable rugs. The system works in two parts: a thin, printed rug cover and a grippy rug pad that stays on your floor. When the rug gets dirty (and it will, especially if you have kids or a kitchen), you just peel off the cover, toss it in your washing machine, and put it back. That’s it.
They come in many different sizes, from small accent rugs all the way up to 9×12 and even round rugs. The pattern selection is quite impressive. They have everything from neutral Moroccan-inspired designs to bold, colorful prints. They’re also available in different pile heights, including some flatter weaves and a few that mimic a thicker feel.
Ruggable rugs are made from a polyester blend, which is part of why they’re washable. They’re priced from around $100 on the lower end up to several hundred dollars for larger sizes.
Ruggable Review: Pros and Cons of Ruggable Washable Rugs
Let me break this down honestly, because there are real pros and cons here, and I think these will help you determine if a Ruggable rug is for you.
The Pros
They’re machine washable. This really does change things. It’s obviously the whole point, and it delivers. If you have kids, dogs, or a messy kitchen (hi, all three), being able to throw your rug in the wash is a game-changer. When I was testing our new Ruggable runner to see how it would look in our kitchen, I laid it over our wool one, and of course, that’s when a red wine spill happened. The wine came out of the Ruggable with no problem, but unfortunately, there’s a lingering stain on the wool rug even after professional cleaning. Lesson learned: the Ruggable survived without a trace.
The pattern selection is extensive. I was honestly surprised. There are hundreds of options, and they’ve clearly put effort into keeping up with design trends. I found several patterns I genuinely loved and would have considered for any rug purchase.
They’re softer underfoot than I expected. Before I ordered, I assumed they’d feel flat and cheap. They don’t, at least not in the way I feared. They have a softness to them that’s pleasant to walk on, and the pile options give you a bit of variety depending on the look you’re going for.
They work well in high-traffic areas. This is probably where they shine brightest. Whether it’s the kitchen, hallway, kids’ room, a mudroom, or anywhere that a rug is going to take a beating, a Ruggable makes practical sense. I even got this fun Calloway Multicolored Rug for my office since it gets a lot of foot traffic, and it’s fabulous.
They actually stay in place. This surprised me the most. The rug pad system works better than I expected. My old wool runner in the kitchen would shift constantly, and I was forever straightening it. My Ruggable hasn’t moved. The two-piece system, which I thought might be annoying, is actually the reason it stays so flat and secure.
The Cons
They won’t hold up the way a quality wool rug will. A well-made wool rug can last decades. I don’t expect the same from a Ruggable. That’s not a knock; it’s part of the reality of the material, and since the material is different, the longevity will be different too.
They’re thinner than most traditional rugs. Even the thicker pile options don’t have the weight and substance of a traditional area rug. If you’re used to walking on a dense wool rug, this will feel noticeably different.
Affordable, but not exactly cheap. This is a relative thing, but I want to be honest: Ruggables aren’t the budget buy some people seem to expect. A large size will still run you several hundred dollars. For that price, you can find traditional rugs, though obviously without the washable feature.
The feel underfoot gives it away. I want to be transparent here: it doesn’t feel like a wool rug. While our Ruggable rug is very soft, there’s a different quality to it that you’d notice if you were comparing the two side by side. It’s not bad; it’s just different, and if you’re expecting it to mimic a high-end traditional rug, you might be slightly disappointed.
Where I Actually Use Ruggable Rugs (And Where I Don’t)
Here’s my honest take after living with them: Ruggable rugs have earned a real place in my home, just not every room.
I love them in high-traffic areas where practicality has to win. The kitchen is the obvious choice. Kids’ rooms are another. My home office is a spot where I didn’t want to invest a lot, and a Ruggable works perfectly there. It looks great, does the job, and I don’t stress about it.
But for the rooms that really matter to me visually, like my living room, I still prefer a traditional rug. There’s a quality and warmth to a well-made wool or natural fiber rug that just isn’t replicable in a washable format yet. For me, that trade-off isn’t worth it in the spaces where the rug is a real design statement.
The dining room is an interesting middle ground. Right now, I have a traditional rug there, and I love it. But we use that space mostly for hosting. If it were the main place my boys ate every single day, I might feel very differently. The washability would start to outweigh the aesthetic difference pretty quickly, I would think.
Ruggable FAQs
Can you put Ruggable rugs in any washing machine?
You’ll need a front-loading or top-loading machine without an agitator. Larger sizes require a commercial washer (most laundromats work great). Always check the sizing guide on Ruggable’s website before ordering.
How often can you wash a Ruggable?
As often as you need to, which is kind of the point. Ruggable says the rugs are designed to be washed regularly without breaking down.
Do Ruggable rugs fade after washing?
I haven’t noticed any fading after two washes, and most reviews I’ve seen say the colors hold up well over time.
Do Ruggable rugs work with underfloor heating?
Yes. The rug pad is designed to be compatible with radiant floor heating systems.
Can you use a Ruggable rug pad with a different rug cover?
The rug pad and cover are designed to work together as a system, so they’re not interchangeable with other brands.
Are Ruggable Rugs Good Quality?
For what they are, yes. It’s important to frame this question correctly, though. Ruggable rugs are not trying to compete with high-end traditional rugs. They’re washable, pattern-forward, and family-friendly. Within that category, they deliver. It’s a solid rug pad system that holds up in the wash. Go in with realistic expectations, and you’ll likely be happy.
My honest take: they’re well-made for what they are, and “what they are” is genuinely useful.
Are Ruggable Rugs Toxic?
This is a question I looked into before buying, because I have kids on the floor constantly, and it matters to me. Here’s what I found:
Ruggable rugs are OEKO-TEX certified, meaning they’ve been tested for harmful substances and pass safety standards. No formaldehyde, no PVC in the pad. They are synthetic (polyester), so if you’re strictly a natural-materials household, that’s worth noting, but from a toxicity standpoint, the certification is meaningful.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it. My full Ruggable review, rug snobbery intact. Are they my dream rug? No. Are they genuinely useful and well-designed for the right spaces? Absolutely. I’m keeping mine, and I’d buy another for the right room.
If you’re on the fence, my advice is simple: don’t use one as a substitute for a rug you really care about, but absolutely use one anywhere practicality matters more than perfection.
Turn on your JavaScript to view contentThe post Ruggable Review from a Rug Snob (I Finally Tried One) appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.
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Easy Sesame Noodles (Takeout-Style)
If you’re craving takeout-style sesame noodles, this Easy Sesame Noodles recipe delivers the same bold flavor in just 15 minutes.
Tender noodles are tossed in a creamy sesame peanut sauce made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, fresh ginger, and garlic for the perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and nutty.
These easy homemade sesame noodles taste just as good warm for dinner as they do chilled straight from the fridge, making them ideal for quick weeknights or meal prep.
It’s one of those flexible, back-pocket recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again.
What You’ll Love About these Easy Sesame Noodles
- Quick & Easy: Ready in about 15 minutes
- Simple Ingredients: Pantry-friendly ingredients
- Meal Prep Friendly: Delicious hot or cold
- Customizable: Easily adjustable to your taste
- Weeknight Idea: Great as a main dish or side
The proportions are forgiving, so you can adjust the sauce depending on how creamy, salty, or spicy you like it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Udon or wheat noodles: Chewy and satisfying, the perfect base for soaking up the sauce
- Soy sauce: Adds deep savory flavor
- Rice vinegar: Brightens and balances the richness
- Sesame paste or tahini: Creates a creamy, nutty base
- Smooth peanut butter: Adds body and subtle sweetness
- Toasted sesame oil: Provides that classic takeout aroma
- Granulated sugar or honey: Balances the savory elements
- Fresh ginger: Adds warmth and freshness
- Fresh garlic: Brings sharp, aromatic depth
- Chile-garlic paste or chile oil: Optional for gentle heat
- Cucumber: Adds cool crunch and contrast
- Roasted peanuts: Provide texture and nuttiness
- Green onions: Fresh, mild bite
- Shredded carrots: Adds color and subtle sweetness
(See the printable recipe card for full list of ingredients)
How to Make Easy Sesame Noodles
- Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain. If serving cold, rinse briefly under cool water and drain well.
- Make the sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame paste, peanut butter, sesame oil, sugar, ginger, garlic, and chile paste if using. The sauce should be smooth and creamy. If it feels too thick, add 1 to 3 tablespoons warm water until silky.
- Toss and adjust: Add the noodles to the bowl and toss until evenly coated. Taste and adjust with more soy sauce, vinegar, or heat as desired.
- Garnish and serve: Top with cucumber, shredded carrots, green onions, and chopped peanuts. Serve warm or chilled.
Tips & Variations
- Sauce too thick? Thin the sauce as needed. Sesame paste thickens as it sits.
- Add Protein: Make it a meal by adding shredded chicken, baked tofu, or a soft boiled egg.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge up to 24 hours. Add a splash of soy sauce or water before serving to loosen.
- Swap the sesame paste: Chinese sesame paste has a deeper, toastier flavor, but tahini works beautifully.
- Add vegetables: Add extra vegetables like red bell pepper, snap peas, or spinach for more color and nutrients.
The post Easy Sesame Noodles (Takeout-Style) appeared first on Elizabeth Rider – Modern Healthy Living.
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BondiBoost Discount Code + Honest Review
Let’s talk about hair tools. I just discovered the idea of an infrared round brush for non-damaging smoothing—and I’m in LOVE.
I don’t blow-dry my hair every day. I try to let it air dry at least once per week—especially if I’ve washed it at night—and then I just want something to smooth the ends the next day to give it that polished, intentional look.
That’s where the BondiBoost Infrared Thermal Bounce Brush comes in. I wanted smooth without the damage, and this brush is it!
And yes, I got us a discount code:
- Use ELIZABETHRIDER for 10% off sitewide
- Get the infrared smoothing brush here
- Shop the BondiBoost website here
(By the way, I paid full price for the brush and bought it myself.)
The Infrared Thermal Bounce Brush (My Favorite)
This brush is designed to give you that soft, 90s-style blowout look without the traditional blow-dryer damage.
What I love most:
- It’s made for dry hair (not soaking wet hair—this is not a blow-dryer but rather a smoothing brush like a curling iron but less damaging)
- It smooths length and ends beautifully
- It gives bounce without frying your hair
- It’s fast (what we all need!)
It uses far infrared technology, which gently heats the hair from within rather than blasting the outer layer. It also emits negative ions to help reduce frizz and seal the cuticle for smoother, shinier hair.
In real-life terms? It makes my hair look polished without feeling brittle.
I’ll air dry, then run this through the mid-lengths and ends. Two to three passes per section and I’m done. It smooths flyaways, adds shine, and gives that little flip at the bottom that makes it look like I tried — even if I didn’t. And I genuinely feel like it’s less damaging than traditional high-heat styling tools.
Why Infrared Heat Matters
Traditional hot tools can overheat the outer layer of the hair shaft, which can lead to dryness and breakage over time.
Infrared heat works differently. It:
- Heats more evenly
- Penetrates more gently
- Helps retain moisture
- Reduces surface damage
If you’re trying to be smarter about heat styling (I am), this is a great middle ground between no heat ever and full blowout every day.
Who This Brush Is Perfect For
You’ll love this if you:
- Air dry your hair but want smoother ends
- Want volume without a full blow dryer session
- Are trying to reduce heat damage
- Love that soft, bouncy blowout look
- Want something fast
If you expect it to replace a full salon blowout from soaking wet hair, that’s not really its job. It works best on dry or mostly dry hair.
BondiBoost Hair Products (Also Excellent)
I’ve also used several of their hair products, and they’re solid across the board. They focus on clean ingredients, scalp health, strengthening and repair, and reducing shedding.
Their masks and treatments are especially good if you color your hair or use heat tools regularly. They’re effective without feeling heavy or greasy.
If you’re investing in skincare, it makes sense to treat your scalp and hair with the same level of intention.
BondiBoost Discount Code
Save 10% sitewide with my code: ELIZABETHRIDER
This is one of those tools I actually reach for regularly. It makes my air-dried hair look intentional, smooth, and finished without feeling like I’m slowly damaging it.
The post BondiBoost Discount Code + Honest Review appeared first on Elizabeth Rider – Modern Healthy Living.
