Home//Canadian Living/May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04/In This Issue
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04ON YOUR MARKGet set… Even though the season still says spring, May is the month we often think of as the beginning of summer. Maybe it has something to do with the Victoria Day long weekend, our first three-day stretch in nice weather, when we can relax outside and fire up the barbecue. Or perhaps it has to do with the seeming lack of a proper spring in recent years, when we’ve gone straight from slushy streets to heatwave. Or maybe it has to do with the fact that we’re so darn sick of the cold that we simply visualize summer, will it into being, a little sooner than the calendar says. Whatever (insert shrug). We’ll take it.But along with that decision to jump-start the season comes the inevitable realization that these…1 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04nowtrendingHello, glow!Rev up your radiance with these brightness-boosting products that promise a healthy, luminous glow.Mimicking the natural composition of skin, this luxurious oil shields dry skin while resupplying its lipid layer. What’s more, this breakthrough formula also tackles the visible signs of oxidative damage and stress. Splurge on this skin saviour if you have seriously thirsty skin in need of hydration and nourishment—the dewy glow is just a welcome bonus!Revive your skin with this cleanser that washes away impurities and gently exfoliates in one easy step. The bright citrus scent refreshes the senses while vitamin C and apricot seed tackle uneven tone and texture for skin that looks and feels healthy and energized.Radiate confidence every time you apply this innovative priming serum. Use it alone to enjoy a natural glow…2 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04Save or splurge?Skin careSplurgeIf your routine includes skinprotecting and anti-aging actives, opting for medical-grade formulas targeted toward your needs can be worth the extra investment. “Medical-grade products are often more expensive, but they offer effectiveness that’s validated by scientific data,” says Dr. Roni Munk, a cosmetic dermatologist and owner of the MunkMD clinic in Montreal. Think vitamin C or retinol serums that protect against environmental damage and visible signs of aging, he says.The same goes for sunscreens, which provide crucial UV protection and should be used every day. It’s important to ensure you’re using a reputable brand that lives up to its claims, and to replace expired SPF right away for ultimate effectiveness.SaveWhen it comes to facial and body cleansers, there’s no need to pay a fortune, says Dr. Munk. “An affordable…6 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04How to weekendYou know that feeling when May comes around and you rub your hands together in anticipation of all the delightful things that summer brings? That’s the feeling we’re trying to hold on to this year, instead of working, rinsing, repeating, then suddenly realizing it’s August and thinking, “Where did the time go?” This list of ways to enjoy the warm weather provides a road map for taking advantage of all this season has to offer.1 CREATE A LIST OF THREE NEW RESTAURANTS TO TRY OVER THE SUMMER MONTHSThink beyond your favourite go-to cuisines and indulge in something you’ve never had before. Select restaurants with outdoor patios, of course.2 READ A CLASSICYou know those lists of books everyone should read? Some of their drier material may not tempt you, but authors…3 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04health& fitnessStanding tall isn’t just about looking confident; it can boost your physical and mental health, too. Maintaining an open, upright posture is associated with improved moods and increased self-esteem. Studies reveal that assuming “power poses” like standing with your hands on your hips can increase feelings of strength and control. Whether you’re facing a big presentation or just tackling daily tasks, adopting a strong stance may also reduce stress and boost your confidence. Embrace the power of good posture for a happier, healthier you!…1 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04Blast from the PastDOLLED UP WALLSLean into the iconic styles of the past with gilded frames, reproductions of your favourite artist’s masterpieces or even a statement wall covered in bold wallpaper. These small additions can have a huge impact on the aesthetic of your space without breaking the bank.TOTALLY LITPopular vintage lighting styles include Art Deco, Mid-Century Modern and industrial, so if you’re looking to add an old-school feel to a room, there’s no shortage of designs and time periods to choose from. Details like tinted glass and coloured metal lend a retro charm, and elaborate chandeliers or banker’s lamps give a nod to the historical styles of yesteryear. Whatever design you choose, try pairing it with a bulb that gives off warm light to help create a cozy, vintage atmosphere.DARLING DECORTravel back…4 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04what’s for dinner?MONDAYPAPRIKA PORK SKEWERS & MINI PEPPERSTUESDAYMEXICAN-STYLE PASTA SALADWEDNESDAYASPARAGUS WITH GOAT CHEESE, MIXED NUTS & BALSAMIC REDUCTIONTHURSDAYGREEK-STYLE TUNA COUSCOUS BOWLSFRIDAYBARBECUE CHICKEN & BACON FLATBREADFind more fast and fresh dinner ideas at canadianliving.com/quickandeasy.ON THE TABLE IN 20 MINUTESPAPRIKA PORK SKEWERS & MINI PEPPERSMAKES 4 SERVINGS2 small pork tenderloins, cut in 1-inch cubes (about750 g total)3 tbsp olive oil, divided1 tbsp sherry vinegar (or red wine vinegar)zest and juice of ½ lemon1 tbsp paprika1 tsp smoked paprikasalt and pepper1 onion, quartered12 to 16 assorted mini sweet peppers2 lemons, halvedfresh cilantropiri-piri sauce (optional)Preheat barbecue to high heat (about 400°F); grease grill. In bowl, add pork, 2 tbsp of the oil, the vinegar, lemon zest and juice, and both paprikas. Season with salt and pepper; let stand 5 minutes.On metal or soaked wooden skewers, thread…5 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04craving crispyAIR-FRYER ARANCINI WITH HOMEMADE RANCH DIPMAKES 12 TO 14 ARANCINIHANDS-ON TIME 15 MINUTESTOTAL TIME 40 MINUTESHomemade Ranch Dip1 tbsp unsalted butter1 leek (white and pale green parts only), finely chopped1 clove garlic, finely chopped¾ cup nonfat Greek yogurt½ cup mayonnaise1 tsp onion powderzest and juice of ½ lemon⅓ cup 2% milk2 tbsp chopped fresh chives2 tbsp chopped fresh tarragonsalt and pepperAir-Fryer Arancini2 cups cold leftover risotto½ cup Italian-style dried bread crumbs½ ball fresh mozzarella, cut in small cubes (from 250 g ball)1 cup all-purpose floursalt and pepper2 eggs, lightly beaten1 cup panko bread crumbsvegetable cooking sprayHomemade Ranch Dip In skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat; add leek and cook, stirring often, until very tender, 10 to 15 minutes. Stir in garlic; remove from heat. Transfer mixture to blender; add yogurt,…3 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.0411 tricks, tips and ideas we lovethis month1 A is for AmberHalifax-based fragrance brand The 7 Virtues has just launched its latest perfume, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to spritz this sweet scent all over. A fabulous blend of amber, gourmand vanilla, sweet santal and pink carnation come together to envelop you in warmth and sweetness. Even better, every purchase helps fund Days For Girls, a nonprofit that advances period equity in North America.2 HAIR GOALSStraight, curly, fine, coarse: Whatever hair type you’re rocking, it’ll benefit from this powerful mask from Canadian hair-care company DesignMe. In just five minutes, the colour-safe formula helps hydrate and detangle hair while restoring elasticity for soft, shiny and manageable locks. The secret is a conditioning blend of argan, moringa seed, cannabis sativa seed and rice bran oils that nourish strands…4 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04At long last1 Define and sculp your pout with this velvety, long-lasting lip liner that stays in place for hours with no need to reapply. Bonus: the formula, rich in hyaluronic acid, beeswax and jojoba seed oil, keeps lips hydrated and soft all day.CHARLOTTE TILBURY Lip Cheat Lip Liner, $32, charlottetilbury.com.2 For high-intensity colour payoff, reach for this lipstick with a blend of pure pigments and colour-locking ingredients that promises 10-hour wear and all-day comfort. The transfer-resistant formula glides on smoothly and transforms from a cream to a beautiful matte finish on application.NARS Powermatte Lipstick, $44, narscosmetics.ca.3 Made with clean, cruelty-free, natural and nontoxic ingredients, you can feel good about applying this long-lasting lippie. Star ingredients jojoba seed oil, coconut oil and plant wax keep lips conditioned and moisturized while you enjoy…2 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04ONE PENCIL SKIRT 3 LOOKSweekendSlipping on your favourite sneakers instantly tones down the formality of a pencil skirt, allowing you get more mileage out of this versatile piece. A sporty topper helps balance out the look for the perfect mix of chill and chic.Shortsleeve Wool-Blend Rib T-SHIRT in Butter Yellow, $150, elizafaulkner.com. Evi Cropped WINDBREAKER in Deep Purple, $120, noize.com. Aliana EARRINGS, $35, horacejewelry.com. Leather SNEAKERS, $50, winners.ca.Whether its hem sits just below the knee, at the ankle or somewhere in between, a pencil skirt can add elegance to any ensemble. This one boasts pinstripes that elongate your lower half and a back slit for easy walking, making it a practical yet stylish option for everyday wear.workTake a feminine approach to the classic suited silhouette by swapping traditional trousers for a tailored pencil skirt.…2 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04Barley BLASTTHE BENEFITSGut GoldWant to boost your digestive health? Barley is your new best friend. Whether you eat hulled barley with its bran and germ intact or pearled barley, which has its hull and bran removed, this grain is packed with soluble and insoluble fibre, including beta-glucans. Not only does barley’s fibre content promote regularity and prevent constipation, but it also helps to reduce “bad” cholesterol and can aid in weight management by keeping you feeling full longer. Incorporating barley into your diet can improve heart health, regulate blood sugar and lower the risk of colorectal cancer, as well.Nutrient NirvanaBarley is a rich source of minerals, including magnesium (a key player in insulin production and sugar metabolism), calcium, potassium, iron and phosphorus. Plus, barley is loaded with selenium, known for its…3 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04LUSH GARDEN1 French marigold (Tagetes patula)FLOWERING: June to first frostHEIGHT: 15 to 30 centimetresSPREAD: 15 to 30 centimetresHARDINESS ZONES: 2 to 11Useful between tomato plants for its nematicidal effect (kills nematodes—worms), this plant, available in eye-catching yellow, orange and red shades, exists in several varieties. Although this annual prefers fresh, light and well-drained soil, it’s adaptable and can thrive in pots, flowerbeds and the veggie garden.2 Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare)FLOWERING: July to SeptemberHEIGHT: 60 to 120 centimetresSPREAD: 50 to 80 centimetresHARDINESS ZONES: 3 to 8Tansy produces umbels of yellow buds. It is superb planted among Russian sage and as a background for lavender, borage or catnip. It likes dry to medium, well-drained soils. This perennial plant attracts predatory insects such as ladybugs, lacewings and others, which take on several pests like aphids,…5 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04beauty of brunchGOUDA & ARTICHOKE TARTE FINEMAKES 4 TO 6 SERVINGSHANDS-ON TIME 20 MINUTESTOTAL TIME 45 MINUTES1 sheet puff pastry, thawed but cold (half of 400 g package)1 cup grated sharp Gouda cheese½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese2 tbsp 35% whipping cream2 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves removed and stems discardedpinch hot pepper flakes6 marinated artichoke hearts, drained and halved1 tbsp liquid honey (approx)salt and pepperlemon zestbasil leavesPreheat oven to 425°F; line large baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out puff pastry on floured work surface as thin as possible. Transfer to prepared baking sheet. Using paring knife, cut out 10-inch circle; remove excess pastry. Using fork, prick circle all over.Sprinkle Gouda and Parmesan evenly over pastry and drizzle cream over cheese. Sprinkle with thyme and hot pepper flakes. Top with artichoke halves…6 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04PROTEIN powerBACON & VEGETABLE EGG BITESMAKES 12 EGG BITESHANDS-ON TIME 10 MINUTESTOTAL TIME 35 MINUTES2 green onions, chopped1 jarred roasted red pepper, drained and diced½ cup fresh baby spinach, chopped½ cup crumbled cooked bacon8 eggs1 ¼ cups cottage cheese1 ¼ cups shredded Swiss cheesesalt and pepperPreheat oven to 350°F. Place silicone muffin pan in large shallow baking dish. Grease muffin cups well.Evenly divide green onions, red pepper, spinach and bacon among muffin cups.In blender, place eggs, cottage cheese and Swiss; season with salt and pepper. Purée until mixture is smooth and foamy, 20 to 30 seconds. Carefully pour egg mixture into muffin cups, filling about three-quarters full. Carefully pour boiling water into baking dish to come about halfway up sides of muffin pan. Bake until eggs are completely cooked, about 25…6 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04DID SOMEONE SAY SALAD?MEDITERRANEAN-STYLE ORZO SALADMAKES 6 SERVINGSHANDS-ON TIME 25 MINUTESTOTAL TIME 35 MINUTESSalad1 ½ cups orzo2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved2 mini cucumbers, halved lengthwise and sliced½ sweet red pepper, diced½ sweet yellow pepper, diced¾ cup sliced pitted green olives¾ cup halved pitted kalamata olives⅔ cup crumbled feta cheese¼ cup finely chopped red onionVinaigrette⅓ cup olive oil2 tbsp mayonnaise2 tbsp white wine vinegar1 tbsp balsamic vinegar2 tsp Dijon mustard1 tbsp finely chopped shallot1 tsp dried oreganosalt and pepperIn saucepan of boiling water, cook orzo according to package directions until al dente, 7 to 10 minutes (do not overcook). Drain and rinse with cold water; transfer to large bowl.Add tomatoes, cucumbers, red and yellow peppers, green and kalamata olives, feta and red onion; mix gently.In glass jar with lid, add olive oil, mayonnaise, white…1 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04Oil for allWhy choose an oil?With its wide variety of benefits, an oil is a workhorse that brings a lot to the table. Oils can work as occlusive ingredients to create a barrier to protect skin and hair, lock in moisture and prevent water loss. They also boast emollient properties that soften and smooth skin and hair. In addition, many oils provide benefits based on their unique composition of vitamins and nutrients. The result is supple, nourished dermis with increased elasticity and tresses that are soft, shiny and strong.What’s the difference between an oil and a moisturizer?While both can soften, nourish and protect through occlusive and emollient action, moisturizers also bring hydration to skin and hair, acting as a humectant to draw in water. By nature, oils don’t attract water, but they…5 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04Spring flingMaximum impactIf you’re craving a chic fit, reach for a flowy maxi skirt. The white hue and soft fabric of this one will have you feeling carefree and looking très elegant.Rib Longsleeve Wool-Blend TOP in White, $190, elizafaulkner.com. Lucy SKIRT in White, $288, thereformation.com. Sea Silver-Plated Recycled Pendant NECKLACE, $69, pilgrim.ca.Mini magicShow off those gams with a short hemline in an eye-catching colour, like this verdant hue. Choose pieces with a little something extra to amp up the style quotient, as seen in these delightfully ruffled pockets.Rib Shortsleeve T-SHIRT in Green, $150, Carrie JACKET in Green Twill, $350, Tate SKIRT in Green Twill, $250, elizafaulkner.com.The silky wayDon the colour of love by combining different shades of it to build your look. To keep the ensemble from feeling too precious, opt…3 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04TO TRACKOR NOT TO TRACKTracking and quantifying our health seems to be all the rage. Did you hit your steps? Close your rings? Meet your macro targets? Stay under your calorie budget? Wearable electronic health-tracking devices, such as watches, rings and monitors, can record fitness and health-related measures like number of steps taken, VO2 max, heart rate, sleep and calories burned. Studies show that one in five Canadians are wearing one of these gadgets. Beyond wearable devices, there are also countless smartphone apps that are used to track health data, and even smart scales that sync with fitness apps. So, with all these means of tracking health data, are we healthier as a result?“For some people, tracking can be a positive way to build awareness of lifestyle and markers of health…however for others, it…5 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04NO REFORMER, NO PROBLEMEXTERNALLY ROTATED LEG EXTENSIONLYING ON YOUR BACK, BEND YOUR LEGS, FLEX YOUR FEET, BRING THE HEELS TOGETHER AND OPEN YOUR KNEES HIP-WIDTH APART. HOLDING THE ENDS OF THE RESISTANCE BAND IN EACH HAND, PLACE THE BAND AROUND YOUR FEET. PLACE YOUR ELBOWS ON THE MAT. EXHALE TO EXTEND YOUR LEGS WHILE HOLDING THE EXTERNAL ROTATION. INHALE AS YOU BEND YOUR KNEES AND FLEX THE FEET, RETURNING TO THE INITIAL POSE. REPEAT 10 TIMES.BEAR POSEFROM TABLETOP POSITION, PLACE THE TOPS OF YOUR FEET ON A FOAM ROLLER. ENGAGING YOUR CORE MUSCLES, LIFT YOUR KNEES A FEW CENTIMETRES OFF THE MAT. INHALE TO STRAIGHTEN YOUR LEGS WHILE MAINTAINING A NEUTRAL SPINE. EXHALE AS YOU RETURN TO BEAR POSE. REPEAT 5 TO 8 TIMES.HIP LIFTLYING ON YOUR BACK, PLACE YOUR HEELS ON A…3 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04what’s shakin’ bacon?BACON, ONION & TOMATO JAMMAKES 8 SERVINGSHANDS-ON TIME 10 MINUTESTOTAL TIME 1 HOUR 10 MINUTES375 g reduced-salt bacon, diced1 onion, finely chopped2 Roma tomatoes, diced1 clove garlic, finely minced⅓ cup packed brown sugar¼ cup cider vinegar½ tsp smoked paprikapinch hot pepper flakespepperIn skillet over medium heat, cook bacon, stirring occasionally, until crispy, 5 to 7 minutes. Drain bacon on paper towel-lined plate; set aside. Remove all but 1 tbsp bacon fat from skillet. Add onion to skillet; cook, stirring often, until beginning to caramelize, 7 to 9 minutes. Add reserved bacon, tomatoes, garlic, brown sugar, vinegar, paprika and hot pepper flakes; season with pepper. Bring to boil; reduce heat to low and let simmer, stirring every 5 minutes, until mixture is thickened and almost no liquid remains, about 45 minutes.…2 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04FULLY LOADEDTOMATO, OLIVE & FETA-STUFFED EGGPLANTMAKES 4 SERVINGSHANDS-ON TIME 20 MINUTESTOTAL TIME 50 MINUTES2 small eggplants1 tsp coarse sea salt salt and pepper3 tbsp olive oil, divided (approx)½ small onion, chopped1 clove garlic, chopped1 tsp fresh thyme leaves½ tsp ground cumin pinch cinnamon1 tbsp red wine vinegar283 g cherry tomatoes, halved, crushed and drained½ cup halved pitted Kalamata olives3 tbsp toasted pine nuts½ cup crumbled feta cheese1 tbsp za’atar¼ cup roughly chopped fresh cilantroolive oil (optional)lemon wedges (optional)plain yogurt (optional)Preheat oven to 350°F; line baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice egg-plants in half lengthwise; sprinkle with coarse salt. Let stand for about 10 minutes. Using paper towel or clean tea towel, pat eggplants dry. Using spoon, scoop out flesh from eggplant, leaving about ¼ inch of flesh on the skin. Coarsely…7 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04Spring has SprungASPARAGUS & SPINACH QUICHEMAKES 6 SERVINGSHANDS-ON TIME 20 MINUTESTOTAL TIME 1 ¾ HOURS400 g shortcrust pastry dough, homemade or store-bought½ bunch asparagus, trimmed250 g frozen spinach¾ cup shredded Swiss cheese½ cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese6 eggs1 cup 2% milk2 tbsp 35% whipping cream1 garlic scape, chopped (or 1 clove garlic)2 green onions, chopped¼ cup fresh curly parsley, chopped2 tbsp chopped fresh chivespinch groundnutmegsalt and pepperfresh baby spinach leaves (optional)fresh chives (optional)On floured work surface, roll out dough to 9-x 13-inch rectangle; transfer to 9-x 12-inch cake pan, removing excess, if necessary. Using fingers, pinch edge of crust, if desired. Using fork, prick bottom all over; refrigerate for 30 minutes.Preheat oven to 400°F. In saucepan of boiling salted water, cook asparagus until tender-crisp, 3 to 5 minutes. Immediately plunge asparagus in…2 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04PRETTY IN PINKRHUBARB ALMOND SANDWICH COOKIESMAKES 10 SANDWICH COOKIESHANDS-ON TIME 45 MINUTESTOTAL TIME 1 ¾ HOURSIcing1 cup chopped rhubarb (1-inch pieces)pinch granulatedsugar2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened¼ tsp vanilla2 ½ cups icing sugarCookies½ cup unsalted butter, softened1 cup all-purpose flour⅔ cup ground almonds⅔ cup granulated sugar½ tsp almond extractRhubarb Icing Preheat oven to 375°F. Place rhubarb on lightly greased pie plate and sprinkle with sugar. Bake until rhubarb is soft, about 15 minutes. Let cool.Meanwhile, reduce oven temperature to 350°F. In food processor, pulse rhubarb, butter and vanilla until combined. Add icing sugar, 1 cup at a time, pulsing until smooth and scraping side as necessary, 1 to 2 minutes. Set aside in refrigerator.Cookies Line large baking sheet with parchment paper. In bowl, using electric mixer on high speed, cream butter. Reduce speed…1 min
Canadian Living|May 2024 - Vol.49 No.04Manage your subscription online with ease!RENEW MY SUBSCRIPTIONRenew or extend your subscription online to enjoy uninterrupted delivery in service.Please note that our renewal notices are produced in advance. You may receive a notification even after you have replied or paid your bill. Please verify your account status online.CHANGE MY MAILING ADDRESSPlease allow 6 to 8 weeks for processing your address change.MAKE A PAYMENTCheck your balance and pay your bill easily and securely.GIFT SUBSCRIPTIONGive or renew a gift subscription in just a few clicks!SUBSCRIPTION EXPIRY DATEFind out when your subscription will end.DELIVERYPlease allow 4 to 8 weeks for delivery of the first issue.OTHER QUESTIONSCheck out our FAQ page.Go to canadianliving.com/servicesubscription@tva.ca…1 min
