All illustrations by Erin Filson.
SEPTEMBER 2016
VIRGO Aug 23 – Sept 22 —And a happy Vir-thday to you, dear friend! September is an exciting and event-filled month for you, with your sense of freedom and independence at an all-time high. Be careful of those who challenge your right to be self-sufficient, and never be afraid to express yourself fully, completely, and with a vengeance. Things are about to get busy—work, your personal life, your social agenda—everything, and with the phone ringing off the hook and a jam-packed schedule, you might just forget to eat. Raw foods and ready-to-eat goodness are going to come in handy, and you should take a moment to stash things in opportune places. Almond butter and apples in your desk drawer! Roasted nuts and cured salami in the glovebox of your car! Aged Gouda and caramels next to the TV remote! Eat smart and eat often, and September might just be the best month of 2016 yet.
A SNACK-TEMBER TO REMEMBER:
Nosh on
Bequet Caramels in Celtic Sea Salt—a sweet treat so chewy and long-lasting, you'll forget that you forgot to eat!
LIBRA Sept 23 – Oct 22 —Can you believe it's already September? The year is flying by, but as we enter the last third of 2016, Libra's agenda is just getting revved up. Things are going to feel hectic over the next few weeks, and you'll have to watch extra close to make sure you're not getting wires crossed in the communication department. Avoid misconceptions by being ultra-clear and as patient as you can be, and definitely avoid junk food, sugars, and artificial add-ons. To keep yourself sane, this is the month to perfect meal-planning - set a day to dream up some fantastic meals, maybe grab some ideas from magazines or food blogs to keep it interesting, and knock out a big day of grocery shopping to get organized and ready. Indulging in things like fresh fruit, cheese in small doses, honeyed nuts, and additive-free jams and preserves will keep you from even noticing the absence of junk foods!
A SNACK-TEMBER TO REMEMBER:
Grab some
DB Rosemary Crostini and a tub of
Garlic and Herb Cheese Spread—simple, filling, and full of flavor to keep you from stressing out.
SCORPIO Oct 23 – Nov 21 —In the dog days of summer, you might think that Scorpio will be left alone to bask in the sun. Not the case this September, friends, and the road ahead may be rocky and rough. Your temper will be tested with some pop-up problems, and don't allow you anger to lash out in the wrong ways. Be especially careful if you are the keeper of sensitive information—a moment of weakness might just cause a rupture in your composure, and things will quickly get out of hand. Instead of throwing a hot temper around this month, throw some extra spice into all of your meals to help maintain the balance. Use cayenne pepper in batters and sauces, or a dash of chili powder to add a rich, smoky flavor. Keep dried herbs and garlic on hand for flavor, but use fresh whenever possible! Remind yourself that a fresh start or a fresh perspective just might make the perfect blend, even when the temperature is too hot to handle.
A SNACK-TEMBER TO REMEMBER:
Make a big batch of pico de gallo, loaded with fresh jalapeño peppers, tomato, garlic, onion, and cilantro. Add a few pinches of cumin powder and crumbled goat cheese, like Capricho de Cabra, for an unforgettable dip, topping, or main course!
SAGITTARIUS Nov 22 – Dec 21 —Soak in these warming rays of summer, Sagittarius, as the year enters its final third! You've managed to catch a wave of self confidence and general good feelings, and that will carry you through the good times and the bad. When you're facing the tougher situations this month, be wary of asking advice from close friends. Look to your own good sense and wisdom before turning to others, and take your time in communicating your opinions so that no one gets offended or misunderstands your intentions. With such good vibes at your back, be sure that they don't blow you into excessive eating and indulgence! Reward good decision-making with more good decisions, and make use of the last of the barbecue days by grilling up your veggies like a good Sagittarius. Portobello mushrooms and zucchini make incredible meat substitutes, and with a splash of BBQ sauce and a dash of sea salt, you won't be in trouble if you have a second (or third) helping.
A SNACK-TEMBER TO REMEMBER:
Whip up some popcorn (use loose kernels and coconut oil for the healthiest version of this POPular snack) and give it a dusting of
St. Lucifer spicy seasoning—a light and satisfying pick-me-up that won't bust your gut.
CAPRICORN Dec 22 – Jan 19 —The times, they are a'changing—and the seasons aren't far behind. September is a month of changes for dear Capricorn, and when decisions are made, they'll be tested to the breaking point. Keep a level head as you take a look at the big picture items in life, and stick to your guns once you've made up your mind. You might need to break away from your comfort zone to establish your identity as well—whether you're making some renovations to your home, moving away, leaving your hometown or country, or simply changing a few things around, don't be afraid to leave limiting mindsets and old-fashioned restrictions behind. Practice this new frame of being by cooking outside of your culinary comfort zone with new cuisines or an added spin to a classic recipe. Take a trip down the international foods aisle at your local grocer, grabbing a few ingredients you have never experienced. Turn to the Internet or a new cookbook for advice on how to use them, and cook yourself into a Capricorn state of mind.
A SNACK-TEMBER TO REMEMBER:
Try a jar of
Les Moulins Mahjoub Harissa, a Mediterranean spread that combines top-shelf olive oil with sweet peppers for a tantalizing condiment for wraps, pita bread, eggs, and vegetables.
AQUARIUS Jan 20 – Feb 18 —Congratulations, Aquarius! You're engaged! (With the world around you, that is.) We all learn more as life goes on, and September is a month of continued learning for you. The political climate and current events are particularly charged at the moment—take some extra time to research your opinions, and seek out a cause that you can apply yourself to with passion! Become a part of an organization close to your heart, and you'll be surprised at how quickly your unique talents make you an invaluable part of any operation. Don't be afraid to let it affect your kitchen habits, too. A short stint in animal rights activism will obviously have you thinking twice about what you're eating. It doesn't necessarily mean you have to go vegan, either! Check into the USDA standards on antibiotics and organic certification. You might be surprised at what different farmers with different distinctions view as humane treatment of their livestock.
A SNACK-TEMBER TO REMEMBER:
Nosh on Vermont Creamery's Bijou cheese, a gooey, tangy delight made with the milk of some very happy goats. The Creamery's dedication to their farmers and animals is almost edible, made better only by a drizzle of raw honey.
PISCES Feb 19 – March 20 —Get ready for heaps of pep in your step for September, Pisces—you may be the poster child for "go with the flow", but don't be afraid to jump into the driver's seat and take control of your life! You'll be meeting lots of new people and experiencing lots of new things this month, and the pace will definitely pick up speed. Don't stress, be open to fresh ideas, and thoroughly enjoy the ride. An end-of-summer bash is more than a good idea, it's practically called for with all the excitement, and now is the time especially if you've never thrown a big party for friends and family. Try your hand at being the host with the most by planning a range of hors d'ouevres that will knock everyone into November, and bake up a smattering of goodies to keep everyone snacking, smiling, and sending you compliments. It doesn't need to be fancy, just memorable and unique - like you! Oh, and don't forget the cheese plate.
A SNACK-TEMBER TO REMEMBER:
Throw together some
Petit Toasts, fromage blanc, smoked salmon, and top it off with
Caviaroli—perfect beads of olive oil from Spain, making almost anything into an epic appetizer.
ARIES Mar 21 – Apr 19 —Intuitive Aries knows that something is out of balance, and September is simply the month to fix it. Whether it's a huge lifestyle change or a minor tweak here and there, it's time to sniff out the problem and find the proper solution so you can enjoy the rest of your summer! Wise up to any communication problems you're having with those around you, and think twice before you speak up. You may be impatient for others to express themselves, but forcing the issue will only force a larger problem out of a small one. There's been a big shift at home or at work, too, and time might be the best solution for the transition period—don't rush the evolution, and keep up the optimism. Practice patience in cooking, and test out some recipes or baked goods that you normally wouldn't because of time constraints. A little extra focus, some breathing room, and a dedication to expanding your horizons will yield some tasty results in the long run.
A SNACK-TEMBER TO REMEMBER:
A stick of
DB Finocchiona fennel salami and a smear of
triple cream Brie is the perfect embodiment of your monthly goals, pairing time-honored perfection with young, buttery, decadence.
TAURUS Apr 20 – May 20 —September will be a positive month for dear Taurus, as long as you are willing and able to learn. Take everything in, be observant, and keep up with the quickened pace without sweating the small stuff. The first two weeks of the month seem to be prime time for making big decisions, but make sure to keep the pressure off. If you're feeling backed into a corner, you just might do something rash. Keep calm, take a few breaths, and think things out with that classic Taurus ability to be unbiased and keep a clear head. With the elevated pace this month, you'll need to load up on essential vitamins and protein. The simple act of squeezing your own oranges for a morning cup of juice can kill two birds with one stone—a delicious, healthy beverage full of vitamins, and a morning ritual with a single, repetitive action to give you time to focus on the day ahead. Keep a can of roasted nuts at hand throughout the day to keep your energy maintained, or hit up a jar of peanut butter with a crisp apple every couple of hours. Focus can be downright yummy!
A SNACK-TEMBER TO REMEMBER:
Dried fruits can be deceptively indulgent—stock up on dried strawberries, mango, and kiwi for a pop of flavor and sweetness (and all that healthy stuff, too).
GEMINI May 21 – June 20 —Speak up, Gemini! September is a huge month for using your words and your voice, and your perceptive nature will make it all the more impactful. Work on saying things pointedly and succinctly, conveying as much as possible in as few words as you can. You'll be pleasantly surprised at how little time it will take to make your thoughts understood and appreciated. Also, speaking up when you have a problem will help you immensely this month—it will take less effort to convince other people that you're right that it will to change your own mind to suit everyone else. On the flip side, be careful with any secrets you might have, and keep your mouth closed if you want them to remain secret! To help keep it well-exercised, stick to the chewy, the toothy, and the denser foods. Beef jerky and cured meats, caramels and toffee bars, as well as thick aged cheddars and bouncy Mozzarellas will keep your tastebuds delectably occupied.
A SNACK-TEMBER TO REMEMBER:
Load up on Krave Jerky in any of their marvelous varieties and keep a hunk of
Montgomery's Farmhouse Cheddar on hand. Beefy goodness paired with the world's greatest cheddar will make for a happy September, indeed.
CANCER June 21 – July 22 —Even in the calm, long days of summer, the winds of chaos blow through! This will undoubtedly be a hectic month for you, Cancer, with a few curve balls to be thrown. Some unsettling issues may arise if you're not fully prepared, so make sure you've dotted your i's and crossed your t's when it comes to things like planning, insurance, and healthcare. Some family issues might arise, and to deal with them you'll need to pull out all the stops emotionally and keep your head and your heart well-balanced. When discussing the tougher stuff this month, be careful who you're trusting with valuable information. Instead of seeking comfort from strangers, hit up the comfort food spectrum with a bevy of recipes to make you feel better from tummy to toes! Take a day to cook up a slow-simmered marinara completely from scratch, and enjoy the spoils of your toil over fresh pasta with homegrown basil leaves. There's no problem a bowl of bolognese can't fix.
A SNACK-TEMBER TO REMEMBER:
When in doubt, turn to chocolate—snatch up some Mast Brothers chocolate bars from Brooklyn in a myriad of flavors for a heartwarming pick-me-up.
LEO July 23 – Aug 22 —If you want something done right, do it yourself. Leo knows this only too well, and so September being a DIY kind of month should be no problem! Do what Leos do best and take a leadership role in most things, but make sure you're keeping a thumb on the pulse of some bigger issues in the world throughout the weeks. You never know what might affect you and your loved ones, but with all that's happening socially and politically, it won't hurt to be armed with extra knowledge. Careful not to lilt to the paranoid side while doing your due diligence. Keep two feet on the ground, and don't be afraid to make your voice heard! As long as you're doing research, check out your local co-op grocer, and find a reason to be a part of it. The more you do to create local, sustainable food, the more you will benefit in the future. Enjoy the benefits immediately, too, by eating and cooking fresh and from your close-to-home facilities.
A SNACK-TEMBER TO REMEMBER:
Life is great because BACON, so snag some Philly-local 1732 Meats Smoked Paprika Bacon and go hog-wild. Throw some Valdeon blue cheese in the mix, too, because you're a Leo and you can.
