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Game night in Lake Oswego, OR is a great time to try out a few new culinary treats to share with your friends or loved ones. The last thing you want is for your gaming events to become stale and boring. These ideas will help you spice up the night and give your roommates or guests something to talk about long after the last roll of the dice or the last card is played.
Add a Touch of Thai
Spring rolls are a lot of fun for everyone and can add a hint of heat that will keep your friends or family reaching for more. They are fun additions to your game night festivities but not too exotic for the average palate.
Make a Spicy Dip
Chips and dip are game night standards. No one says you have to use the same old dips each and every time. Try a spicy Rotel or queso dip, a hot crab dip, or even add a spicy new layer to your famous seven-layer dip. Try new things that bring the heat in a good way to extend the conversation well past the end of the game.
Try a Cajun Treat
There are many great options to consider if you wish to add a little Cajun heat to your game night meal. Great dishes that feed groups wonderfully include the following:
- Red beans and rice
- Jambalaya
- Shrimp gumbo
The added benefit is that these dishes do not require constant monitoring and are quite easy to make once you get the hang of them. This allows you to spend time enjoying your guests and participating in the game rather than working hard in the kitchen.
Switch Up Your Pizza Plans
While pizza is another tried and true game night ritual, consider trying something a little different the next time you order or make pizzas. Go for new flavors, like a buffalo wing pizza or a spicy taco pizza. The new flavors can transform your traditional fare and might be a lot of fun for all.
Put a little sizzle in your game night recipes with these ideas. If you’re searching for an apartment in Lake Oswego, OR, call us today to learn which floor plans are still available and schedule your tour.
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Spring marks the beginning of strawberry season, which makes this an ideal time to try out a few new recipes. These tasty berries can add sweetness to meals and snacks while also providing you with important nutrients. The following are a few strawberry recipes to try this spring.
Chicken and Strawberry Cobb Salad
This salad is a healthy and refreshing meal, whether you have it for lunch or dinner. To make it, whisk lime zest, olive oil, honey, and lime juice together first to form the dressing. Add a bit of salt and pepper for seasoning, then set this bowl to the side. Put romaine lettuce in a separate bowl, then add sliced strawberries, grilled and sliced chicken breast, crumbled feta, cooked peas, sliced avocado, and sliced red onions. Add salt and pepper for more seasoning if desired, then add the dressing before serving.
Strawberry French Toast Bake
This is a great recipe to make for breakfast or Sunday brunch. Start by coating sliced strawberries lightly with sugar. In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, grated orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Cut a cinnamon loaf into small pieces, and place half of these in a greased baking dish. Add the cream cheese mixture to the baking dish, then add the strawberry slices and the remaining loaf pieces. Whisk the half-and-half cream and eggs, then pour this mixture into the baking dish. Cover the dish, and refrigerate it overnight. Bake the next day at 350 degrees for about 40 to 45 minutes. Top with whipped cream and strawberry slices before serving.
Cinnamon-Strawberry Sundae
This tasty recipe is the perfect dessert to have after lunch or dinner on a warm spring day. To make it, melt butter in a saucepan, then add lime juice, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Cook on medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Add sliced strawberries, then cook for an additional 2 minutes. Serve with scoops of vanilla ice cream, and add grated lime zest for extra flavoring if desired.
You can enjoy your strawberry recipes on your own patio or balcony at our apartments in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Contact us to learn about our floor plans, amenities, and more.
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Living close to Metropolitan Portland at Kruseway Commons gives you the opportunity to enjoy a fast-paced lifestyle, with plenty of dining options in the area. But cooking at home has gained a new level of popularity. It is healthier, less expensive, reduces your calorie consumption, and gives you more control over your salt, sugar, and carb intake.
To make your at-home, culinary experiences more efficient, here are 5 small appliances or kitchen gadgets that don't take up much counter or cabinet space.
5 Kitchen Gadgets for Apartment Living
1. Panini Press
Experiment with your own gourmet sandwich creations with a small Panini press (or plate grill). Top lean meats like chicken or seafood with your favorite veggies, low-fat cheese, and multi-grain bread for a crispy crusty and mouth-watering melt. The non-stick coating makes clean-up a breeze. And these versatile appliances can cook a variety of foods, including veggie burgers, crispy hash browns, and even omelets.
2. Mini Crock Pot
Who wouldn't like to come home to a hot, simmering slow-cooked meal? A mini crockpot can hold 2 quarts of your favorite soup, stew, or creamy chicken pot pie. Even the least expensive meat cuts will tenderize and be full of flavor due to the long, low-temperature cooking. Slow cookers are experiencing a major comeback as a time-saving way to eat healthily.
3. Rapid Egg Cooker
Deliver perfectly cooked eggs for breakfast in less time than it takes to boil water with a rapid egg cooker. This device can boil, poach, or cook scrambled eggs in minutes. Toss in a few veggies like mushrooms and peppers, plus Monterey Jack cheese for a quick Western-style breakfast. This kitchen gadget is easy-to-store, lightweight, and the non-electric parts can go right into the dishwasher.
4. Mini Waffle Maker
Belgian waffles for one—coming right up! Yes, even apartment dwellers can enjoy a sweet breakfast with this appliance that takes up only a 6" square surface area. This cute and compact kitchen gadget can double as a mini grill to create mini grilled sandwiches, hash browns, and even biscuit pizzas. Instead of a round or square waffle, try a heart-shaped mini waffle maker for fun!
5. Milk Frother
If you want to become your own barista, all you need is a milk frother to turn your dark coffee into a rich and creamy coffee experience. A milk frother uses milk that is whipped up into a frothy layer to add to cappuccinos, lattes, or macchiatos. Impress your friends and neighbors with a foamy cream that you can use to make coffee art.
You will not lack the kitchen storage or countertop space for these apartment-sized kitchen gadgets when you choose one of our apartments in Lake Oswego, OR. Call to schedule an appointment or discuss our amenity-filled 1-, 2-. and 3-bedroom apartments!
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In the fall, if you're like many Oregonians, you probably enjoy picking apples at one of the city's nearby orchards. The fruit are, of course, delicious to eat straight off the trees. But what about any leftover apples you might have? Is there anything special you can do with those? Fortunately, the answer is yes. If you have an instant pot, you can make this delicious homemade applesauce.
What are the Best Apples to Use?
Although you can use just about any type of apple to make a delicious applesauce, many cooks prefer to use Granny Smith, Gala, Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Golden Delicious. And you don't have to use just one variety. In fact, many cooks suggest using two different types to give your applesauce additional flavor.
Ingredients:
- 3 pound apples
- 3/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoon brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions:
- Peel and core the apples, then chop into small pieces.
- Add all ingredients to your instant pot
- Cover the pot and secure.
- Pressure cook the ingredients for five minutes on high.
- Allow instant pot to natural release for approximately ten minutes.
- To release the remaining steam from your instant pot, follow the manufacturer's instructions.
- Carefully remove the lid from your instant pot.
- Stir ingredients and serve.
Canning Your Homemade Applesauce
If you love applesauce, you might want to consider making extra and canning it. When canned properly, homemade applesauce can last for about a year. To can:
- Fill properly sterilized jars with your applesauce, leaving about a half inch of space from the top.
- Scrape down the insides of the jar and remove any air bubbles from your applesauce with a rubber spatula.
- Wipe the rims of your jars clean.
- Place the jars of applesauce in a water-bath canner and process for approximately 20 mintues.
Have you been searching for a beautiful apartment community where you can enjoy Oregon's gorgeous fall days? Then, please stop by and check out our apartments in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Our community features an open park-like setting, a lovely pool, a sun deck, and a courtyard. We're sure you'll also fall in love with the vaulted ceilings and cozy fireplaces in our pet-friendly apartments. Contact us today to learn more.
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When winter settles in, the state of Oregon sees more rain and more clouds. But don't let the lack of sunshine get you down or steal your internal sunshine. Serve up these blues-curing drinks in your Lake Oswego apartment, and you'll get a little sunshine-like warmth from the inside to carry you over until spring.
Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate
Nothing beats the moody blues like yummy hot cocoa, and this version gives you the soothing sweetness without all the fat or dairy that traditional hot chocolate has. Made with almond milk, unsweetened chocolate chips, and unsweetened cocoa, this cup of goodness is silky smooth and oh-so-yummy. Top off the cup of dairy-free hot chocolate with a dab of whipped heavy cream or coconut whipped cream, and sprinkle the top with more cocoa for an added touch. Friends who get this drink when they swing by for a visit will leave your apartment feeling like they just got a much-needed hug.
Hot Not Toddy
Known as the soothing remedy for colds, the flu and more, the traditional hot toddy is made with alcohol. However, this version of the famous drink is still hot without alcohol, so it is referred to as a Hot Not Toddy. Mix together seven ounces of hot tea, honey to sweeten, and a splash of lemon juice (along with a few spices), and you have a sip-worthy drink that easily busts any feelings of winter-season sadness. The collaboration of tea, honey, citrus, and spices soothes your body and your mind.
Nonalcoholic Winter Sangria
Sangria is the epitome of summer drinks with all its bright color and flavor, but with a few little changes, you can have a winter sangria that is just as bright, just as cheer-inducing and just as pleasing. Orange slices, grapefruit-flavored sparkling water, caramelized cranberries, pomegranate juice—this drink is filled with a ton of color, a ton of flavor, and a ton of happiness. Garnish the orange and red concoction with contrasting cinnamon sticks, fresh cranberries, or a rim coating of sparkling sugar for good measure.
No matter how long the winter clouds may linger, you'll feel a bit of upbeat happiness with these cozy drinks around. Talk to us at Kruseway Commons to find out why people love entertaining in our Lake Oswego apartments.
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Did you know it's possible to grow herbs indoors? The residents of our Lake Oswego, OR apartments do it all the time! If you're interested in trying out your green thumb in the herb-growing space, here are some plants that do well indoors.
1. Chives
Have you ever bought too many chives and wound up throwing away much of the bunch? That can be a frustrating waste of money, but it doesn't have to be that way. Chives typically grow well indoors, which means you can have them available, fresh, and ready to go whenever you need them. Try making these creamy chive potatoes when the weather starts getting colder. They'll warm your belly and keep you full.
2. Mint
Whether you're reaching for an after-work mojito or you've found an entree recipe you can't live without, mint will be right by your side with your indoor herb garden. Get fancy and impress your guests with pork chops with pistachio salmuera. You'll wow your fellow diners while making good use of your freshly grown mint.
3. Basil
Basil is a lot heartier than you might think it is. Look for the smaller globe-type basil so you don't run into the space issues larger plants can cause. This lemon basil chicken recipe is ready to eat in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect meal after a long day's work.
4. Bay Leaves
Although bay leaves prefer to grow outside when the weather's warm, they'll do just fine inside your apartment. You may not use bay leaves in your everyday cooking, but they can really add a great flavor to certain dishes. Take this quick and easy ratatouille, for instance—one bay leaf is all you need to impart a great flavor that accompanies the many veggies that go into this dish.
5. Cilantro
Cilantro is another one of those herbs that often gets thrown out before it can all be eaten. It's much less of a waste when you can simply clip a few leaves off the plant you have in your living room. This 5-ingredient cilantro vinaigrette will lighten up any salad.
Your indoor herbs need lots of natural light, and our Kruseway Commons apartments in Lake Oswego are happy to provide it. Stop by so we can give you a personal tour of our community today!
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Lake Oswego, Oregon, is a great place to live all year. The location is fantastic, and the summer weather here is mild compared to much of the country. Even still, some summer days can get a little toasty.
Summer is also a great time for entertaining. When you entertain, you’ll need dessert, of course! But no one wants to crank up the oven on those warm summer days. That’s why we’ve gathered these three awesome summer desserts that you can make at home, all without heating up your kitchen.
Can’t Go Wrong With No-Bakes
No-bake cookies are a perennial favorite and for good reason. They are the perfect blend of chocolate, peanut butter, and oats, giving you a delicious chewy, gooey mixture of flavors. We like this recipe from the website Live Well, Bake Often. You do need to heat up the mixture on the stove, so there is a small amount of heat involved. It shouldn’t be enough to make a difference in your apartment, though.
Homemade Popsicles are Easier Than You Think
A favorite for kids and adults alike on a hot day, popsicles will be a hit at your next gathering. What’s better than store-bought pops? Homemade, of course. First, pick up a popsicle mold from Amazon (or just use shot glasses if that’s more your style). Pour in your preferred fruit juice and mix in some fruit puree, whole blueberries or diced fruit. Mix in some applesauce for a smoothie-pop consistency. Freeze and enjoy!
Hosting an adults-only gathering? Try adding your favorite booze to the process above.
No-Bake Cheesecake, Twice as Fast
You can make this no-bake cheesecake in about half the time as the real deal, and since there are no eggs in it, you’ll never have to turn on the oven. The filling is made from whipped cream, cream cheese, sour cream, and lemon juice. The crust? Just crushed graham crackers and butter.
These summer desserts are sure to please, and you don’t have to worry about your kitchen heating up from using the oven. And if you’re looking for apartments in Lake Oswego, Oregon, look no further than Kruseway Commons. Reach out today to learn about the luxurious amenities we offer.
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It’s almost summer, which means it’s officially outdoor entertaining season. Get ready to throw some burgers on the grill and invite over the friends and family for an evening of fun outdoors. Of course, you’ll definitely need to have a cocktail or two on hand to keep everyone refreshed. If you need a few ideas before you invite guests to a soiree at your Oswego, OR, apartments, try one of these delicious cocktails that are sure to please.
Strawberry Wine Punch
This simple punch only has three ingredients and some strawberries for a garnish. Mix it up in no time for a fruity, summery drink that guests will love.
What You’ll Need:
- ½ liter of lemon-lime soda, chilled
- 1 bottle of moscato, chilled
- 1 10-ounce can of frozen Bacardi strawberry daiquiri mix; make sure it’s thawed
- Some fresh strawberries to use for garnish
How to Make It:
Mix the daiquiri mix and wine in a large pitcher. Then add soda, mixing well. Pour over ice and garnish with the fresh strawberries.
Mint Vodka Limeade
Limeade is a summertime favorite, and while this cocktail takes a little more time, it’s so worth it. Mix it up ahead of time, and it’ll be ready to serve when it’s time to enjoy all your barbecue favorites.
What You’ll Need:
- 8 cups of cold water
- 8–16 ounces of vodka, to taste or desired strength
- 4 lemons or limes (use both for super great flavor)
- Limes and lemons for garnish, if desired
- ½ to ¾ cup of sugar or honey to sweeten, to taste
- Ice cubes
- Leaves from a medium-sized bunch of fresh mint
How to Make It:
Quarter the limes and/or lemons, placing in the blender with 2 cups of water, honey/sugar, half the mint leaves, and some ice. Blend until lemons/limes have been crushed and the mixture is whitish and foamy. Strain; then add the rest of the water. Stir in vodka to the desired strength. Serve over ice, garnishing with remaining lime slices and mint leaves.
Beach-Bum With Rum Punch
This is the adult version of fruit punch, and it’s super easy to throw it together ahead of time for your barbecue.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 can of lemonade
- 1 32-ounce bottle of orange juice
- 1 32-ounce bottle of cranberry juice
- 1 32-ounce bottle of pineapple juice
- 1 750-ml bottle of white rum
- 12 ounces of water
How to Make It:
Place the ingredients in a gallon-size pitcher or another container. Shake it up well to combine and refrigerate. Serve chilled with or without ice.
With these delightful, refreshing cocktails, your barbecue is sure to be a success. Do you have friends coming over looking for apartments in Oswego, OR? If so, have them contact our office today to find out what options are available.
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Is morning a busy time at your apartment? Tired of grabbing unhealthy meals from vending machines and fast food places on your way to work? This sounds like a job for breakfasts you can bake ahead of time!
Hearty Breakfast Recipes
Homemade Fruit and Nut Bars
Start with a batter base: Mix 1 cup oatmeal, 1 cup self-rising flour, 1/2 cup water or milk, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 egg.
Now the fun part: Customize your recipe! Throw in 1/2 cup fruit like dried cranberries, chopped apples, and bananas. Add 1/2 cup nuts or seeds (peanuts, sunflower seeds, etc.). Top with cinnamon to taste.
Press the dough flat into a greased pan and bake at 325 degrees for 25-30 minutes. Cut into bars when cool.
Eggy 'Muffins'
Spray a muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray. Line it with tortillas or slices of bread, tearing them as needed to make them fit. Spoon into each muffin cooked veggies like broccoli, corn, or cherry tomatoes. Up the protein count by topping it off with cooked hamburger or black beans. Finally, bind everything together by filling the tins to the 2/3 mark with beaten eggs (about 1 egg for every 2 muffins).
Bake at 400 degrees until eggs are set, 5-10 minutes. Then reheat and eat.
Hearty Waffles
While your greased waffle iron is heating, make the batter. Mix 1-1/2 cups self-rising flour, 2 tbsp sugar, 2 eggs, 1/4 cup butter or oil, and 2 cups milk.
Sounds like a basic waffle, right? Now it's time to make them heartier. Add 1/2 cup powdered peanut butter or your favorite protein powder (chocolate and coffee flavors work great here). You can also up the heart-healthy fiber by adding 1/2 cup mashed bananas or sweet potatoes. Blend until smooth and cook in the waffle iron. Try not to eat them all when they’re piping hot, you need to save some for breakfast!
Psst: If you don’t have a waffle iron, these also make excellent pancakes.
Hearty Breakfasts and Healthy Mountain Air
Our Lake Oswego, OR apartments offer healthy living in a gorgeous landscape. Do you want to call Kruseway Commons home? Contact us today to get started on the application process.
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Planning to have a game night with your friends at one of your apartments in Lake Oswego? While the right game choice is vital, picking the right snacks to keep everyone satisfied and happy while they play is just as important, too. At the same time, you shouldn’t have to slave over a stove all day either. Consider these easy snack ideas, and you’ll be the hero at the next game night!
Simple Snack Ideas for Game Night at Your Lake Oswego Apartment
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Slow Cooker Chili Cheese Dip – Chunk a block of Velveeta cheese; add a can of chili (without beans) and a can of diced mild jalapenos. Cook on low heat for 3 to 4 hours and stir every hour or so. If the dip seems too thick, you can add a little milk to thin it out. Serve with sour cream and extra sliced jalapenos on the side, and you’ll have a warm, delicious chili cheese dip perfect for eating with tortilla chips or as a filling for flour tortillas.
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Easy Flatbreads – Most bakery departments offer a wide variety of flatbread and naan bread (Flat Out is one national brand). Top with your choice of marinara, barbeque sauce, cheese, veggies and diced deli meat, and bake at 350 degrees for about 8 minutes for a fast, easy flatbread snack that will look impressive and take only minutes to prepare. This is a snack but feels hearty enough to serve as a meal – especially when served with some fruit (see below).
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Fruit Skewers – Grab some pre-cut fruit and grapes from the produce department and skewer them. Serve with a premade fruit dip for an easy-to-eat, mess-free fruit snack. With all the other less-than-healthy snacks, it may make you feel good to eat something with some nutrition in it to keep you going with the gaming all night long.
Game night and every other night is even better when you have the perfect place to call home. Check out our currently available apartments in Lake Oswego at Kruseway Commons and schedule a walkthrough.
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