Love and affection, two words often associated with February, make it the perfect time to focus on self-care and well-being. At Crest, we believe in promoting a lifestyle that prioritizes wellness, relaxation, and community. Join us this February as we celebrate love in all its forms, starting with a dedication to loving yourself and your lifestyle.
Promote Fitness and Well-being as an Act of Self-Love
What better way to show yourself some love than by prioritizing your health and well-being? Our two-story fitness center is your sanctuary for reaching your fitness goals and improving your overall health. Whether you prefer cardio, strength training, or yoga, our state-of-the-art facilities cater to all your needs. Take this February as an opportunity to embrace a healthier lifestyle and love the feeling of strength and vitality that comes with it.
Crest’s Resident Lounge: The Heart of Community Love and Relaxation
In the midst of the chilly February weather, there’s nothing quite like cozying up in our resident lounge. With comfortable seating, community recreation activities such as shuffleboard and a pool table, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to unwind and connect with your neighbors. Whether you’re enjoying a cup of hot cocoa or catching up on your favorite book, our lounge is the heart of community love and relaxation at Crest.
Valentine’s Day With a View: Romantic Evening on Your Balcony
As Valentine’s Day approaches, why not celebrate with a romantic dinner on your balcony? At Crest, many of our apartments have spacious balconies which offer the perfect backdrop for a memorable date night with your special someone, or your best friends! Pop into Lidl just steps from your front door and pick up your ingredients to cook the perfect meal, while sharing heartfelt moments under the stars. At Crest, we believe in creating unforgettable experiences, and Valentine’s Day with a view is sure to be one you’ll cherish. Not sure what to make? Don’t worry–Lidl has some great recipe ideas here.
This February, let Crest be your sanctuary for love, fitness, and relaxation. Join us in embracing a lifestyle that prioritizes self-care and community, and discover the joy of loving your lifestyle to the fullest.
Ready to Fall In Love With Your Perfect Apartment?
When you choose an apartment with a smaller floorplan, leveraging every inch of space is key. Luckily there are tons of tricks designers use to get the most out of any room. Maximize your apartment’s space, whether small or large, with these tips for comfortable living in any floor plan.
Utilize Vertical Storage
Vertical storage, like shelves, can hold cookware, small appliances, books, and decorative items without taking up precious floor space. In the kitchen, hang pots and pans on a pot rack, and in the living area, use the shelves to display art pieces or family photos. You can find a ton of different options for your apartment directly on Amazon.
Invest in Multi-Functional Furniture
Invest in multi-functional furniture–it can work wonders. Choose a dining table with collapsible sides or extension leaves that you can tuck away when not in use. Look for a sofa bed or a sleeper sofa that can serve as a comfortable seating area during the day and a cozy bed for guests at night. Try a coffee table with storage underneath or nesting tables that you can stack together, as they are also excellent space-saving choices. Many of our floor plans at Crest come with multifunctional islands in the kitchens which go a long way for added storage, check out what we have available here.
Create Visual Separation
Create visual separation between the kitchen and living area to give the illusion of multiple spaces. Use area rugs to define each space and add texture and warmth. Position furniture strategically to act as a natural divider, such as placing a bookshelf or a low console table between the kitchen and living room. Utilize different lighting styles, like pendant lights for the kitchen and floor lamps for the living area, to visually distinguish the two spaces.
Harness the Power of Freestanding Storage
If you can’t install cabinets or open shelving, consider incorporating freestanding storage solutions in your kitchen. Freestanding carts with shelves and drawers can provide additional storage for your cookware and utensils. These versatile pieces can be easily moved around, making them perfect for small kitchens where space optimization is essential. Additionally, you can use standalone bookshelves or storage bins in the living area for items like books, décor, and entertainment devices. This brings both functionality and style to your space. Choose freestanding storage options that complement your overall design theme and provide an organized and clutter-free environment.
Use Mirrors to Create Illusion
Mirrors are a powerful tool for creating an illusion of more space. Place a large mirror on a wall in the living area to reflect natural light and make the room feel larger. In an open plan living and kitchen space, try angling the mirror toward the kitchen, which not only adds a stylish touch but also makes the area seem more expansive. Additionally, mirrors can make the apartment feel brighter and more inviting.
Whether you choose to live in one of Crest’s studio, one, or two-bedroom apartments, these tips will help you make the most of the space! Designing an efficient apartment kitchen and living space without removing walls or installing cabinets requires creative thinking and resourcefulness. Transform your apartment into a beautiful, practical, and inviting home with vertical storage, multi-functional furniture, visual separation, freestanding storage, and strategically placed mirrors.
Embrace these tips for maximizing your space, ensuring comfort and style for years to come, regardless of its size. Happy decorating!
Summer is finally here, and it’s time to fire up those grills and gather your loved ones for a memorable cookout! The sun-soaked days and warm evenings call for delicious dishes that celebrate the season’s bountiful produce and vibrant flavors. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a big barbecue party, these five delectable recipes will surely impress your guests and create lasting summer memories.
Grilled Pineapple and Shrimp Skewers
Kick off your summer cookout with a burst of tropical goodness by making Grilled Pineapple and Shrimp Skewers. The combination of sweet, caramelized pineapple and succulent shrimp is a match made in culinary heaven. Marinate the shrimp in a zesty blend of lime juice, garlic, and cilantro, and then thread them onto skewers with juicy pineapple chunks. Grill until the shrimp are pink and the pineapple has those lovely grill marks. Serve them with a refreshing side of avocado-lime dip, and your guests will be asking for seconds!
Watermelon and Feta Salad
Stay cool and refreshed with a refreshing Watermelon and Feta Salad. This dish is a delightful medley of sweet watermelon, tangy feta cheese, crisp cucumber, and fresh mint leaves. The combination of flavors and textures will awaken your taste buds and keep you coming back for more. Drizzle a light balsamic glaze over the top for an added touch of sophistication. It’s a perfect summer side dish that beautifully balances sweet and savory elements.
BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sandwiches
For all the plant-based food lovers out there, BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sandwiches are a must-try! Jackfruit is an excellent meat alternative that mimics the texture of pulled pork, making it perfect for barbecue sandwiches. Slow-cook the jackfruit with your favorite BBQ sauce and spices until it’s tender and infused with smoky flavors. Pile the saucy jackfruit onto toasted buns, and top it off with a refreshing coleslaw for a delightful crunch. Even meat-eaters will be amazed at how delicious and satisfying this vegan option can be!
Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili-Lime Butter
Corn on the cob is a summer staple, and grilling it brings out its natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor. Elevate this classic dish by slathering the grilled corn with a zesty chili-lime butter. The combination of spicy, tangy, and buttery goodness will make this simple side dish the star of your cookout. Sprinkle some crumbled cotija cheese and fresh cilantro over the top for an extra burst of flavor. Check out the recipe here.
Summer Berry Trifle
Finish off your summer cookout on a sweet note with a luscious Summer Berry Trifle. Layers of juicy berries, whipped cream, and sponge cake create a visually stunning and scrumptious dessert. Use a mix of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries to add a burst of color and natural sweetness. Feel free to get creative with the trifle layers, adding lemon curd or crumbled meringue for delightful surprises. It’s a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer in every spoonful.
There you have it, five sensational recipes that will make your summer cookout an absolute hit. Embrace the flavors of the season, spend quality time with your loved ones, and savor every moment of these warm and sunny days. Happy grilling and bon appétit!
If you’re looking for a one bedroom floor plan in DC that has it all, look no further than the 1-D Floor Plan! This layout has plenty of open space that’s easy to furnish, lots of light, and great storage. Join us as we explore the practicality and coziness of this layout, and read on about why the 1-D floor plan might be your perfect apartment home.
Natural Light
One of the standout features of this one bedroom apartment is the ample natural light that floods the apartment. The large windows in the living area and bedroom allow for plenty of sunlight to enter the space, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. This feature not only makes the apartment feel more spacious but also helps to improve mood and overall well-being. If you love plants, you’ll love the spacious balcony located just off the living room. You’ll have plenty of space for your plants and room to spare for a some chairs for when you want to step outside for fresh air.
Open Floor Plan
People highly prefer the open floor plan of the 1-D. The living room, dining area, and kitchen flow seamlessly together, creating a bright and airy space that is perfect for entertaining or simply relaxing. The open design also allows for better traffic flow and increases the sense of spaciousness (which, if you live in DC, you know how much we hate a traffic jam!).
Storage
The walk-in closet in the is another appealing feature of this one bedroom floor plan. With plenty of space to store clothing and accessories, this closet helps to keep the bedroom clutter-free and organized. This feature can be especially attractive to renters who need extra storage space or who want to keep their living areas tidy and minimal. In addition, you have the front laundry closet with a folding table. This effectively gives you a laundry room with storage, which is a rarity in DC apartments.
Modern Finishes
This one bedroom apartment also boasts modern finishes throughout, including stainless steel appliances, sleek cabinetry, and hardwood flooring. These features not only add a touch of elegance to the space but also provide a durable and functional living environment.
Sustainability
We designed the apartments at Crest with sustainability in mind, and the 1-D is no exception! Save money and help the environment with energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and low-flow plumbing fixtures in your home. If you prioritize sustainability and want to live in an eco-friendly apartment, this one bedroom layout might suit you perfectly.
In conclusion, the 1-D Floor Plan is a top choice for anyone looking for a modern and functional living space in DC with all the access to the convenience to Skyland Town Center. With its ample natural light, open floor plan, and overall storage, this one bedroom apartment is designed to meet the needs of today’s renters. Its modern finishes, convenient location, sustainability features, and competitive pricing make it an attractive option for anyone looking for a comfortable and stylish place to call your new home in DC.
If you or anyone else looking for a one or two bedroom apartment in DC, the 1-D Floor Plan is definitely worth considering. With its range of amenities and excellent location, it offers a vibrant urban lifestyle that is hard to beat.
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in style with these three easy and delicious recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family. From zesty appetizers to flavorful main courses and refreshing drinks, we’ve got you covered for a festive and flavorful celebration.
Guacamole Stuffed Mini Peppers
Ingredients:
12 mini bell peppers
2 ripe avocados
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
1 lime, juiced
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Cut the tops off the mini bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
In a bowl, mash the avocados with a fork until smooth.
Add the red onion, jalapeno pepper, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper to the mashed avocados. Stir until well combined.
Spoon the guacamole mixture into each mini bell pepper.
Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 can (10 ounces) red enchilada sauce
1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
8 small corn tortillas
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, diced green chilies, and half of the shredded cheeses.
Layer half of the tortillas on the bottom of the baking dish.
Spoon half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas and spread it evenly.
Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas and chicken mixture.
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheeses on top.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Watermelon Margarita
Ingredients:
4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
1/2 cup silver tequila
1/4 cup lime juice
2 tablespoons agave syrup
Ice cubes
Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions:
In a blender, combine the watermelon, tequila, lime juice, and agave syrup.
Blend until smooth.
Fill glasses with ice cubes.
Pour the watermelon mixture over the ice.
Garnish with lime wedges.
Serve chilled and enjoy responsibly.
These three easy recipes will add a festive touch to your Cinco de Mayo celebration. From the flavorful guacamole stuffed mini peppers to the hearty chicken enchilada casserole and the refreshing watermelon margarita, your taste buds will be dancing with delight. As an added bonus, you can pick up most, if not all, of these ingredients at Lidl, just steps from your front door! So gather your loved ones, whip up these delicious dishes, and raise a glass to a memorable Cinco de Mayo fiesta!
As a resident at Crest, my days are filled with convenience, comfort, and excitement. From the moment I wake up to the moment I go to bed, there’s always something to do.
Crest In The Morning
My mornings usually start off with a cup of coffee from the Starbucks located right across the street. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee is enough to get me out of bed. Knowing that I don’t have to go far to get my caffeine fix is a game-changer. As an added bonus, it gives me an opportunity to walk Carl, my adorable pup!
After fueling up with coffee, I head to our fitness center to get in a quick workout. It’s so convenient to have a gym right in our building, and I love being able to work out on my own schedule. The equipment is top-of-the-line, and I especially love that the gym is two levels.
Once I’m done with my workout, it’s time to head to work. Luckily, Crest is just a short drive from my office, so I don’t have to worry about a long commute. But, on days when I don’t feel like driving, I can always take advantage of the convenient public transportation options available in the neighborhood (The 92 bus gets me there quickly!). For those days where I’m teleworking, I love mixing it up by working in the resident lounge or even the conference room.
Crest After Work
When the workday is over, it’s time to run some errands. Fortunately, I won’t have to go far. First, I go get my haircut at Like That Barbershop, which is immediately located in Skyland Town Center. After, I typically head across the street to Lidl to stock up on groceries as well as check out the fun variety of international food items they have. You really cannot beat the prices! However, after a long day of work, the last thing I feel like doing is cooking a meal. Luckily, I can head to one of the many restaurants located essentially within the community. I’m very into Mezeh lately because of their fresh ingredients and healthier options, and I’m trying to look my best for the pool this summer.
Once I’ve devoured my Mezeh bowl, it’s time to take Carl to the dog park for some fetch. Fortunately, there’s a great dog run within the community that Carl absolutely loves, and watching him play with the other dogs is one of my favorite things to do. As a side note: Carl doesn’t have to pay a monthly pet rent, so he can finally take a break from all of his casting calls to be the next Purina dog.
On nights when I want to stay close to home, there’s plenty to do. In the warm seasons, I love unwinding by our pool. I also love attending our resident events as they’re always an opportunity to connect with neighbors and make new friends.
Overall, living at Crest at Skyland Town Center is the perfect mix of convenience, comfort, and excitement. With top-of-the-line amenities, a vibrant neighborhood, and a strong sense of community, there’s truly nowhere else I’d rather call home.
Are you looking for a vibrant and exciting neighborhood in the heart of DC? Look no further than Skyland Town Center. This dynamic community offers everything you need to live your best life from eclectic dining and shopping in addition to fantastic entertainment and outdoor recreation. Here are just a few reasons why Skyland Town Center perfectly serves our residents at Crest at Skyland Town Center:
Endless Dining Options
From an array of fast casual options to international delights, Skyland Town Center also offers a diverse and exciting dining scene. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, you’ll find something to suit your taste buds at one of the many restaurants and cafes in the area.
Shopping Galore
Skyland Town Center has everything you need, and it’s also just steps from your door. With everything from the newly opened Lidl Grocery Store to CVS to Like That Barber Shop, you can run all of your errands without ever leaving your block.
Entertainment for All
Skyland Town Center is home to a wide range of entertainment options, from live music and theater at the annual Block Party and outdoor concerts at Porchfest. Whether you’re in the mood for a night out with friends or a family-friendly activity, there’s always something exciting happening in this vibrant neighborhood.
Outdoor Recreation
Skyland Town Center is situated in close proximity to some of DC’s most beautiful parks and natural areas, including Anacostia Park and Fort Dupont Park. With hiking and biking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas, there’s plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for residents to enjoy.
Convenient Location
With easy access to major highways and public transportation, Skyland Town Center offers a convenient location for commuters and city dwellers alike. Additionally, with plenty of amenities and services within walking distance, residents of Crest at Skyland Town Center can enjoy all the perks of urban living without sacrificing convenience or comfort. Learn more about the various transportation options here!
In conclusion, Skyland Town Center is a vibrant and exciting neighborhood that offers everything you need to live your best life. From dining and shopping to entertainment and outdoor recreation, this dynamic community has something for everyone. As a resident of Crest at Skyland Town Center, you’ll enjoy easy access to all the amenities and attractions that make this neighborhood so special. So, why wait? Come see for yourself what makes Skyland Town Center the perfect place to call home.
We’re in the throws of winter which means it’s prime soup season, and what better thing to have than a piping hot bowl of soup after a cold DC Winter’s day? Not only are soup recipes super easy to prepare, they make fantastic leftovers for that grab and go lunch for work, or even just to have on hand. Read below to learn about our three favorite soup recipes this winter:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the leeks, celery and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 7 to 8 minutes until the leeks are very tender but not browned.
Add the chopped potato, vegetable broth, water, fresh thyme, bay leaf, and salt and bring to a simmer. Simmer for 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender. Remove the thyme and bay leaf.
Transfer to a blender and blend until smooth. Add the cream and blend again. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
4ounces French bread, crust removed, soft part cut into 1-inch cubes (about 1¾ cups)
1cup unsweetened rice milk or unsweetened almond milk
¼cup plus 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
1medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
3cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1teaspoon fresh oregano leaves, plus more for garnish
1(28-ounce) can whole peeled plum tomatoes
1teaspoon kosher salt
½teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper
1tablespoon Champagne vinegar
Soak bread in milk until very soft, about 5 to 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a Dutch oven over medium. Add onion, garlic, and oregano; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 8 to 10 minutes. Add tomatoes and cook, stirring to crush tomatoes, until slightly thickened, about 15 minutes.
Transfer tomato mixture to a blender; add bread mixture, salt, pepper, and remaining ¼ cup oil. Process until creamy and smooth, about 1 minute. Pour back into Dutch oven; stir in vinegar. Serve hot, garnished with more oregano.
1package (6 ounces) long-grain wild rice , (such as Uncle Ben’s minus the seasoning packet)
1tablespoon chopped parsley
1teaspoon kosher salt
½teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Dash of red pepper flakes
2tablespoons cornstarch
4ounces cream cheese , cubed
1cup milk
1cup half-and-half
1tablespoon lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper
Select Browning/Sauté function and melt the butter in the pressure cooking pot. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in the chicken, chicken broth, rice, parsley, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes. Lock the lid in place and select High Pressure and 5 minutes cooking time.
When the cook time ends, turn off the pressure cooker. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes (just let it sit, the steam will escape on its own), then finish with a quick release (be cautious and use a wooden spoon to shift the pressure relief valve so the hearty blow of steam escapes.)
In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Select Simmer/Sauté and add the slurry to the pot stirring constantly. Sir in the cream cheese until melted. Stir in the milk, half-and-half and lemon juice and heat through (do not bring to a boil). Serve sprinkled with more parsley and black pepper if desired.
Looking to show off your soup skills? Look into hosting a soup potluck with your friends in one of our amenity spaces!
Thanksgiving has wrapped which means the Holiday season is officially upon us! Some of the best holiday traditions include attending and experiencing various holiday themed events, and here in the District, we have no shortage of some of the most festive experiences one could have. Continue reading to learn about 5 of our favorite events to attend during this holiday season!
This event is a departure from the standard National Symphony Orchestra experience of formalwear and expensive tickets. Join the National Symphony Orchestra for their annual Ugly Sweater Concert and take part in the fun of this joyous and tacky affair. Musicians and patrons alike will be able to show off their most tacky holiday outfits while enjoying singalongs and other holiday hits. You can catch this event at The Anthem on December 6 starting at just $25 for tickets. Doors open at 6:00PM. Click here for more info and tickets.
The Nutcracker Ballet is a mainstay for many people’s holiday to-do list, and the Washington Ballet’s production is particularly special. You’ll enjoy this rendition set in Georgetown with George Washington starring as the main character. Before the matinee performance, enjoy family day activities such as craft projects, games, and photos with costumed dancers. Catch this event on December 11 with the activities beginning at 11:30AM before the performance begins at 1PM. Click here for more info and tickets.
The lighting of the National Menorah takes place on the Ellipse on the first night of Hanukkah. Typically, this event is attended by the President, Vice President, and many members of the Cabinet and Congress. Enjoy performances by various military bands and other Jewish artists. This event is free of charge (but do click here for reservations as they are required) and kicks off at 3:15pm on December 18th.
Come to the U.S. Botanic Garden to take in their annual Season’s Greetings holiday display from 10am-5pm every day through January 2, 2023. The gated outdoor gardens and the Conservatory will feature poinsettias, holiday décor, and D.C. landmarks makes from plants. Catch the highly acclaimed train display during this same time frame to see them run through a display of agricultural scenes from across the United States and the world. Click here for more info.
For the first time since 2019, you can bask in the colorful glow of D.C.’s beloved National Zoo holiday tradition. This is a free ticketed event and includes live music performances, tasty winter treats, and a stunning display of over 500,000 environmentally friendly LED lights that transform the Zoo into a winter wonderland. Be sure to click the link to view the schedule and details.Be sure to click here to view the schedule and details.
Looking to do something a little closer to home? As a resident at The Crest, you don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to meet your neighbors at our annual Holiday Party this Friday, 12/2 from 6-8PM!
Not yet a resident at The Crest? What are you waiting for?!
The Thanksgiving holiday is one of the best times of year to spend with family. For those of us who live far apart from our family or are choosing to spend time with our “chosen families”, Friendsgiving is a fantastic alternative. At most Friendsgiving meals, everyone typically brings a dish to share. If you’re looking for the perfect dish to bring to your Friendsgiving, continue reading for three fresh choices that are sure to wow your friends!
Classic Stuffing
2 baguettes or country-style or sourdough bread loaves (about 1 lb.)
1/2 (1 stick) unsalted butter, plus more for baking dish
1 large onion, finely chopped (about 2 1/4 c.)
4 stalks celery, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1/2 chopped fresh parsley
1 fresh sage leaves, finely chopped
1 fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
11/2 chopped fresh rosemary
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
4 low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
2 large eggs, beaten to blend
Step 1: Tear or slice bread into 1/4″ cubes. Arrange on a baking sheet or transfer to a large bowl and leave out overnight to dry. (Alternately, place bread on baking sheets and bake at 200º until dried, about 20 minutes.)
Step 2: Preheat oven to 350º. Grease a 13″-by-9″ baking dish with butter.
Step 3: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup butter. Add onion and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant, about 8 minutes. Stir in garlic, parsley, sage, thyme, and rosemary and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute more; season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Place bread in a large bowl, add onion mixture, and toss to combine. In a medium bowl, whisk broth and eggs and pour over bread mixture; generously season with salt and pepper. Toss until completely coated. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish and cover with foil.
Step 5: Bake stuffing 45 minutes. Uncover and continue to bake until bread is toasted and golden brown, 15 to 20 minutes more.
Butternut Squash Mac ‘N Cheese
4 (20 ounces) frozen butternut squash cubes
4 butter
1 kosher salt, divided
1/2 freshly ground black pepper, divided
1/4 all-purpose flour
2 whole milk
1/2 garlic powder
Pinch cayenne pepper
1 chopped fresh thyme
4 shredded cheddar
4 goat cheese
1 large shells or other short pasta
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium-high, combine squash and ¼ cup water. Cover and cook (uncovering to stir occasionally), until tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Uncover and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until liquid evaporates, 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 3: Add butter, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ tsp pepper and stir until butter is melted. Add flour and stir to incorporate. Cook, stirring constantly, until squash mixture thickens and raw flour has had a chance to cook, 2 to 3 minutes. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly. Add garlic powder, cayenne, and thyme and bring to a simmer. Add cheddar and goat cheese, stirring until melted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 4: Add pasta to boiling water and cook 3 minutes short of package instructions. Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water, and return to pot.
Step 5: Meanwhile, transfer squash mixture to a blender and puree until smooth (you should have just over 4 cups).
Step 6: Place the pot with cooked pasta over medium-low heat and stir in sauce until coated. Remove from heat and let cool 5 minutes. (If sauce looks thin, don’t worry—it with thicken as it begins to cool.) Add splashes of pasta water to loosen until you’ve reached your desired consistency.
Step 1: In a large bowl, mix pumpkin and pie spice until blended; stir in ice cream. Freeze, covered, until firm enough to scoop.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream butter, shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg yolks, pumpkin butter and vanilla. In another bowl, whisk flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, pie spice and salt; gradually beat into creamed mixture (dough will be soft). Refrigerate, covered, 30 minutes or until firm enough to shape.
Step 3: Preheat oven to 325°. Shape dough into 24 (1-in.) balls; place 4 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. Flatten to 1/4-in. thickness with bottom of a glass dipped in sugar.
Step 4: Bake 6-8 minutes or until edges are light brown. Cool on pans 2 minutes. Remove to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 5: To assemble, spread a scoop of ice cream on bottom of a cookie. Top with a second cookie, pressing gently to attach. Place on a baking sheet; freeze until firm.
Step 6: Repeat with remaining ingredients. Wrap individually for longer storage.
Looking to host your Friendsgiving outside of your apartment? Check out some of the amenity spaces and check your Resident Portal to see which ones are available to reserve!
We’re so excited to announce that the long awaited Lidl will be joining us in our very own Skyland Town Center this Wednesday, 9/28! As a resident of Crest, we look forward to having you join us for the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and store preview on Tuesday, as well as the Grand Opening Event on Wednesday! Please read below for more information on the Grand Opening Event, and click here to see what else we have just steps away from The Crest!
Grand Opening Event Details
At the grand opening celebrations on September 28, customers will be able to take advantage of get-them-while-you-can grand opening special offers at the new store. The first 100 customers in line before the store opening at 8:00 a.m. will be presented with a special gift card ranging from $5 to $100 each. Shoppers can enter to win a $500 Lidl gift card, sample Lidl’s award-winning assortment, and take advantage of special giveaways.
Lidl is proud to partner with the Capital Area Food Bank to provide food to community members in need. Throughout the entire grand opening weekend, Wednesday-Sunday, Lidl will donate $1 to the food bank for every new myLidl member who signs up and sets Lidl Skyland as their home store.
Store Features
Lidl has been repeatedly recognized for its shopping experience. For the second consecutive time, Food & Wine Magazine recently ranked Lidl among its Top 10 U.S. Supermarket rankings – ahead of retailers like Trader Joe’s and Costco. A study from UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School observed that prices on Lidl’s award-winning assortment were up to 45 percent lower than nearby national grocers.
When entering the Skyland store, shoppers can expect to experience the following:
World-Class Shopping Experience
Shoppers will save time and money each week with Lidl’s award-winning assortment and highly attractive prices.
The store will be newly fitted out with an easy-to-shop layout that will mean a faster and more convenient shop for customers.
Quality Without Question
Healthy, responsible choices, including hundreds of organic and gluten free products.
Unique specialty items ranging from hard-to-find cheeses to authentic specialty sauces, cured meats, and more – all at incredibly affordable prices.
Award winning foods– Lidl’s private label products have won more than 500 awards.
The Lidl Love it Guarantee– A logo that guarantees customer satisfaction; shoppers love the product they buy – or they are entitled to a refund, and a replacement.
Eco-Friendly Store Design
Lidl’s state-of-the-art building contains many sustainable features and is pursuing LEED Gold Certification.
Electric Vehicle charging stations have been installed for customer and employee use.
One hundred percent of the store’s indoor and outdoor lights use LED bulbs.
Surprise and Delight
Lidl offers an ever-changing selection of food and non-food specials brought in each Wednesday for a limited time, keeping the shopping experience exciting and new. The rotating non-food selection will include fitness gear, small kitchen appliances, toys, outdoor furniture, and more.
Committed to Fresh:
Lidl produce is brought in fresh each day and features more than 100 high quality fresh fruit and vegetable options at amazingly affordable prices.
All Lidl flowers are guaranteed fresh and beautiful for five days at a minimum, with roses and lilies guaranteed for seven.
Lidl’s fresh bakery will offer breads, pastries and other items baked throughout the day.
Focused On Our People:
Lidl offers wages and benefits for its team that are above the industry standard in every market in which it operates.
Starting pay for Lidl Skyland Store Associates will be $16.50 per hour.
Lidl offers healthcare coverage to all team members, including those working part-time, regardless of the number of hours worked.
About Lidl Lidl operates around 11,550 stores and is active in 32 countries, employing more than 341,000 employees globally. Lidl offers customers the highest quality fresh produce, meat, bakery items and a wide array of household products at unbelievably low prices. Lidl first established its U.S. headquarters in Arlington County, Virginia, in June 2015, and today sells its award-winning products in more than 150 stores across nine east coast states. For more information, visit www.Lidl.com.
