Gi.Ve.Aw.Ay

This year I have been a little Oprah in my own right…trying to give away everything.  This time I am giving away a gift card to my favorite lunchtime spot in the District.  Actually, this is my fave go-to lunch and dinner spot in the District because its 1.) fast, 2.) casual and 3.) of course, good.  That could be none other than Vapiano.  I really should own stock in this place as much as I visit but for now I’ll simply share the joy that I feel every time I order the Carbonara with one of my readers.

Since I’m a loyal patron of Vapiano’s I believe this giveaway should be dedicated to one of my loyal readers.  Simply leave me a comment of your favorite Johnna Knows Good Food post (*we’ve been talking about food since November 2007 so this should be pretty easy…) and you’re automatically entered to win a $25 gift card to Vapiano.  The giveaway will end on December 7, 2011 at midnight and the winner will be randomly selected.  Good luck!

*Also note that Vapiano has multiple locations outside of the District (*nationally and internationally).

Buitoni Giveaway Winners

As we wrap up another year, yet another contest has come to an end.  Our Buitoni giveaway ended on November 27, 2011 with three winners being randomly selected to receive two complimentary Buitoni meals for two.  Drum Roll please…Marinda, Jeannie and Patti!  Congrats and thank you for participating, please stay tuned because I have plenty more to giveaway before 2011 comes to a close.

World Tour: Jamaican Flavor

Walkerswood Jerk-Seasoned Chicken ©JohnnaKnowsGoodFood

I’m always looking for a way to add some spunk to my meals, because even the most simple meal can take on a whole new meaning with the simple flick of the wrist and the addition of a new, bold flavor. That’s why I love Walkerswood Traditional Jerk seasoning. Just a drop of it in any dish sends my taste buds off to the Caribbean and immediately makes me wish that I was about to board a flight to take in the sites that should accompany a taste so reminiscent of the island of Jamaica.

Recently, I used just a drop of this bold, nostril-flaring seasoning (along with other seasonings I generally use – olive oil, salt, garlic,Parmesan, oregano) to add some “oomph” to one of the most simple meals – chicken and rice. It was just the trick to satisfy my Caribbean craving and hold me over until the time for next year’s trip to Jamaica arrives. There is nothing like finalizing a purchase for an international flight to an exotic getaway like Jamaica, just like there is nothing like savoring the flavors of an island-inspired meal from the comfort of your own home, and I’m thankful for any opportunity to do both!

Etiquette Tuesday: Leftover

©JohnnaKnowsGoodFood

Turkey Day is over and besides leftovers, I took away stories for Etiquette Tuesday.  One story took the cake and this week’s etiquette tip goes to the leftovers.  I did not know this but some people actually bring empty bowls to parties for their end of the night to-go plate.  How tacky?!  To go plates are not a pre-party activity, they are a post-party activity.  To bring your own bowl to leave the party with would be making an assumption that it is OK to leave with the goodies.  Please keep in mind these are large holiday parties I’m talking about, not the house party of 8-10 guests.  Large parties are not appropriate for this type of behavior unless it is understood that all of the remaining food must go with the guests.

This is not to say that it is even more appropriate to bring your own bowl to a small gathering.  Let the host make the decision without seeing your bowl for some coercion into the situation.  The fact that one of my guests knew someone that does this at every holiday party (*without permission) is a problem.  The holiday party is a time for celebration, not a time for you to go grocery shopping.  Though the Junior’s cheesecake may be calling your name, have some coif.  If there’s something left over for you, then snag a napkin and try to avoid smashing it on the train…but perfect cheesecake in your bowl is just bad.

The Ultimate Scoutmob Dinner Party

Image via Scoutmob DC

Join the ‘mob today and be entered to win a Chef’s Table Dinner at Cashion’s Eat Place courtesy of Scoutmob.

Dinner will be hosted by two of my fave food bloggers, Lisa of Dining in DC and Mary of Girl Meets Food. Winners will be selected on sheer creativity. From Ghandi to Axl Rose, let your imagination run free. The team is looking for a dazzler, not a dud.

So peruse your datebook, consider your (fancy) outfit and get ready to be wined and dined Scoutmob style.

*Enter contest here.