Naturally you can imagine my delight to see that Ms. Nixon had produced another stellar vegan cookbook – this time focused on quicker-than-quick mealtime solutions that don’t take ten hours of planning and cooking. There’s a common misconception out there (one held by me at one point) that vegan cooking takes a lot longer than regular omnivorous cooking. To which I say: you probably spend more time on food prep (chopping vegetables), but you save time because it’s way quicker to whip up a Cauliflower-Pumpkin Curry than a pot roast. Anyway with that in mind, here are five reasons / occasions for why Everyday Happy Herbivore would make a wonderful gift suggestion:

1) The Healthy Dieter – A lot of my friends have been inspired to dip their toes into vegan cooking since I started doing it. Of course not all cookbooks are created alike: there are dozens of ways you can still eat really unhealthy meals even if you’re eating vegan food. Lindsay’s book has complete nutritional information for every single recipe, and every one of her recipes are fat-free or low-fat (Yup, even the decadent Chocolate Mug Cake for one). If your friend is rocking a New Year’s Resolution that involves shedding a few pounds, consider this as a healthy, helpful supplement to her meal planning.

2) The Fear of Meat – As per the above, the other main reason my friends are trying out vegan cooking is to simply recognize that eating meat everyday might not be the best thing for your body. If you want to introduce unintimidating meatless mains – like Moroccan Sweet Potatoes & Chickpeas – to someone’s weekly menu, this is a genus book to do it with. Consider hooking up your prego best friend that’s completely turned off by the scent of meat.

3) Rush Hour Recipes – There are so many cookbooks out there that claim to have recipes on your table in under an hour, under 45 minutes, or under 30. I can honestly say that not only is every recipe in this book geared for 30 minutes or less, it’s actually quite feasible to do. Heck sometimes I had stuff done in 10 minutes or less – like the Wendy’s sweet treat imitator: the Banana Frosty. So if your brother has just moved into his first apartment and is still shuddering at the sight of his kitchen – these low-maintenance, simple recipes will rock his world.

4) Bloggers Unite – Naturally a built-in audience for Lindsay’s book are all the ‘Herbies’ out there that read her blog, the Happy Herbivore. I’m kind of dying just looking at the recipes on there right now…Whole Wheat Gingerbread scones? Heck yes, although it’s questionable whether they’ll be able to top the glazed pumpkin biscuits featured in Everyday Happy Herbivore.

5) Still Don’t Believe Me? – Okay then. Give it a go for yourselves. I’ve got a freebie recipe for you lot to try out. And if you’re not convinced as to the supreme yumminess of vegan cooking, well then…maybe skip reading my blog next October

Apple Fritter Cups

As my friend Sheree` says “These treats just jump right in to your mouth and make you dance!”

1 ½ cup chopped apple (skin optional)
1 c nondairy milk
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
2 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup light brown or raw sugar
2 c whole wheat pastry flour
½ tsp salt
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon, divided
nutmeg or ground ginger
Basic Glaze (mix a little non-dairy milk and powdered sugar together until you get a frosting-like consistency)

Preheat oven to 350F. Fill muffin tin with paper liners and set aside.

Toss 1 cup apples with a few dashes of cinnamon and a little brown sugar until well coated and set aside (“topping”).

In a small bowl, whisk nondairy milk with vinegar and set aside.

In a large bowl, whisk flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, ½ to ¾ tsp cinnamon (your choice) plus a dash of nutmeg or ginger, and stir to combine. Whisk in sugar then pour in milk mixture. Add vanilla and remaining ½ cup apples and stir to combine.

Spoon into muffin cups just a tad more than ½-way full. Add “topping” on each. Bake 15-25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Meanwhile, make glaze, substituting 1 tsp of liquid with 1 tsp pure maple syrup (optional). Drizzle warm fritters with glaze.

Tip: Once the fritters completely cool, the liners will peel off. If you plan to eat them warm, lightly spray the inside of the liner with oil-spray to prevent sticking or forgo the liners and grease your muffin tin or use a nonstick pan.

Per Fritter (without glaze) : 102 Calories, 0.4g Fat, 20.9g Carbohydrates, 2.4g Fiber, 5.5g Sugar, 2.7g Protein

CONTEST ALERT!!! I’ve got an extra copy of Lindsay S. Nixon’s Everyday Happy Herbivore for one very lucky Canadian Gift Guide reader. Follow me this way if you’re ready to get your vegan chef’s hat on:

1) Leave a comment until midnight on February 17th and tell me which of the five scenarios above would most motivate you to try your hand at vegan cooking. Be sure to use a valid email address so I can contact you if you win!

2) Entries are limited to one per person per email address (or more if you score bonus entries). A random draw will be conducted on or around February 18th to select the winner, who will have 48 hours to respond before another winner is chosen in their place.

3) Entries are limited to residents of Canada AND the USA that have reached the age of majority in their province / state. Quebec is not eligible to participate in this promotion.

4) Bonus Entry Time: For every tweet you post about the Canadian Gift Guide over the contest period that links back to this post, you’ll earn a bonus entry! Be sure to drop your Twitter handle / links to your tweets in the comments below, and use @cdngiftguide in your Tweet.

For The Dating Gamers: Mast Brothers Chocolate Bars – $12.50 each @ Old Faithful Shop
Most people will deride the idea of ‘flowers and chocolate’ at Valentine’s Day, but few guys would turn down a gourmand chocolate bar from Brooklyn duo Mast Brothers. With a fair-trade policy, hand-wrapped bars, and mouthwatering flavours like black truffle (harvested from Oregon) and slow-roasted cacoa beans from Papa New Guinea, this is a sweet treat that doesn’t scream HEART-SHAPED CANDY but instead offers a stylish nod to the season.

For The Longer-Term Lovers: Fatboy Eetwie Bag – $48 @ Modern Karibou
Want to make spontaneous sleepovers a little easier? Get your guy a slick toiletries bag and pack it with all the essentials you know he’ll need from your local drugstore: toothbrush, contact solution, deodorant, etc. It’s a less scary step below offering someone a ‘drawer’ in your home, and has a totally practical purpose to boot. I’m loving the Fatboy Eetwie bag, which comes in a dozen rainbow colours to match any guy’s favourite shade, and it’s waterproof, making it a perfect fit for the bathroom.

For The Newly United: 101 Places To Have Sex Before You Die – $15.50 @ Indigo
Much like last week’s massage candle idea, the idea here is to feed the fire of your still-hot-to-trot relationship, and provide inspiration to keep things thrilling for many years to come. Instead of a sensual treat, go for something randy and a little bit tongue-in-cheek – coming from a guy, this might feel crass, but from a gal? It’s downright take-charge sexy.

For The Dearly Beloved: Sony Handycam HD Camera with Projector – $579 @ Future Shop
Boys and their toys. Ladies. Let me give you a hint: there is a way to satisfy your guy’s gadget-cravings but actually buy something that the whole household will dig (and use). Is the price on this a little steep for a mere Valentine’s gift? Sure, but really, use this holiday as an occasion to buy a treat that you’ll use well past the holiday. This nifty little camera shoots full 1080p HD-quality video, has a boatload of amateur auteur features, plugs into your computer for easy upload and editing, and best of all – comes in with a built-in projector and speakers, meaning you can replay those magic moments minutes after they happen. Dads will finally have something to capture everything from first steps to graduation day, while young guns will take to the streets to shoot a viral video with their pals.

Fascinators – See info / links below!
After last year’s Royal wedding, everyone was talking about the stunning headpieces that are the tradition of British high society at formal events. Now fascinators are gingerly making their way into mainstream culture, with Hollywood celebs and everyday gals donning them at all sorts of special occasions. If there’s a wedding on the horizon for someone you know this year, consider picking up a fascinator for the event. Score simple feather clips for your bridesmaids, a special piece for the mother-of-the-bride, or even something for the bride herself.
Pictured above (from left to right): Turquoise Enamel Flower Fascinator – $78 @ Curio Designs (Canadian!)
Fuschia Butterfly Fascinator – $25 @ Crown and Glory
Golden Yellow Fascinator – $167 @ Arturo Rios
Pink Velvet Flower Clip – $14 @ Urban Outfitters
Red Rooster & Pheasant Fascinator – $35 @ Clever Plumage (Canadian!)

5 ¾ Created Sapphire & Diamond Sterling Silver Ring – $115 @ Ice.com
I mean, sure you could go the really literal route if you’re planning to get engaged, but I think if you’re going to channel a certain Duchess’ legendary ring, you may as well go for a funky chunky cocktail nod instead. Great for a night out with the gals – to let the guys know you’re taken – or if you’re simply wanting to dazzle up your everyday wear, this is a sparkling gem that won’t require a Royal salary to afford.

LK Bennett Sledge Pumps in Rose Gold – £195
People are crediting the Duchess of Cambridge with launching shoe brand LK Bennett into the upper stratosphere of fashion – particularly because the shoe of the economical Royal”s choice is a simple pair of classic beige pumps she’s been photographed wearing dozens of times. The LK Bennett folks are no slouches however; they’ve released a half-dozen incarnations of Kate’s favoured footwear, including this fashion-forward metallic rose gold pair. A serious splurge for a special lady, no doubt!

Naked Decor Pillows & Bookends – $44.95 to $49.95
Show your allegiance to the monarchy with these fun home decor accents from Naked Decor – perfect for the royal-obsessed in your household or circle. The pillows make a fun accent to anyone’s TV lounge, while the bookends are a quirky yet modern accessory for the office.

Vera Wang Princess Night – $50 @ Shoppers Drug Mart / Pharma Prix
Did you know there has been no less than five incarnations of Vera Wang’s blockbuster perfume Princess? And the latest limited edition certainly doesn’t pale in comparison – nay, it dazzles. From the spangly deep plum heart-shaped bottle to the gem-emblazoned crown topper, this is a scent fit for a lady-in-waiting. This evening re-envisioning of the fragrance shares sweet sugar and vanilla notes with the original perfume, but is switched up with a sparkling blend of juicy watermelon and berries.

Now let the fanfare begin, cause I’ve got a prize for one lucky lady-in-waiting: a bottle of Vera Wang’s glittery, glorious new perfume, Princess Night, which is such a hot gift idea, it’s literally hitting the shelves this weekend. To enter:

1) Leave a comment below until February 16th, 2012 and tell me which of these princess picks you’d most like to give (or get!) Be sure to use a valid email address so I can contact you if you win.

2) Entries are limited to one per person / per email address (or more if you score bonus entries). A random draw will be conducted on or around  February 17th to select the winner, who will have 48 hours to respond before another winner is chosen in their place.

3) Entries are limited to Canadians that have reached the age of majority in their province. Quebec is not eligible to participate in this promotion.

4) Bonus Entry Time: You’ll earn a bonus entry for EVERY single comment you post on NEW non-contest posts over the contest period, as long as it’s tagged with #cgg so I know you’re angling for extra entries. Although for my sake? Please try to keep it to one comment per post so you’re not racking up comments in the hundreds. 

Love prizes? Check out what else you can win through the Canadian Gift Guide by visiting the Winner’s Circle.

Andy Warhol Colouring Book – $17.48 @ Indigo
Follow this timeline with me: this book was originally created in 1961 as a Christmas gift for the children of clients of Edelman, one of the biggest PR firms in the world. It was republished for the public in 1990. And it just got served up with a new reprint in late 2011. Packed with whimsical sketches that any Warhol fan will recognize, this is a sweet collector’s gift for any art / design fan, or on a more practical level: give it to a young ‘un to introduce them to this wizard of whimsical art.

Andy Warhol Watches – $100 – $190 @ Amazon.ca
Wear some Warhol in a subtle way with his line of colourful watches with unique details. From snakeskin straps and sparkling gems to the artist’s scrawled signature and hidden insignia, there are dozens of cheerful yet sophisticated options for both men and women. Consider gifting one to a friend that’s graduating from college, snap one up for an anniversary gift, or give one to your swinging mom or dad that can’t get enough of the sixties.

Bond No. 9 Andy Warhol Fragrances – $98 – $265 @ The Bay
Celebrated New York parfumerie Bond No. 9 is well-known for their richly layered scents that evoke the spirit and neighbourhoods within the Big Apple. So naturally, they’ve paid tribute to a man that embodied everything we all know and love about New York today, through six signature scents inspired by  the areas Andy Warhol lived and worked. Every androgynous fragrance is quite literally a work of art, combining interesting woodsy notes like blue cypress and white birchwood with lush florals like pink peony and hyacinth, topped off with sweet cappers like roasted almonds, forbidden plum, and silver-cloud musk. Of course, let’s not discount those beautiful bottles, with re-imaginings of some of the artist’s best-known work. Pick up a bottle of Bond No. 9′s luxurious scents as a Valentine’s gift for your spouse, or consider grabbing one of the purse sprays as a chic gift for mother or father’s day this spring.

Andy Warhol Incase Macbook Sleeves – $64.95 @ The Apple Store
A natural marriage – Apple & Andy – really, when you think about it. Given designer types are still gushing over Warhol’s brilliance and lauding Steve Jobs’ contributions to society for similar, if slightly more practical, reasons. Hence why you’ll find two classic Warhol prints plastered on these pop art-infused laptop cases, perfect for protecting your beloved notebook (whether it’s a Macbook or not) and sharing your eye for style at the same time. Awesome gift idea for anyone in your life that’s *getting* a new laptop in the near future, or is simply due for an update from their boring, clunky, black attache-style case.

Limited Edition Red Dragon Soap – $7.95 at Lush.ca ONLY
Any Lush fan worth her (bath) salt knows one of the store’s signature scents is Karma, an earthy patchouli-and-pine blend with nearly ten different incarnations from body creams to bath melts. Well now you can indulge in Karma’s chameleon-like properties, with this limited edition Red Dragon-shaped soap, in honour of Chinese New Year that’s only available online. Bring it as a hostess gift to whatever fete your attending for a festive and affordable gift idea!

Chopstick Kids – $12.50 @ Sprogs.ca
I didn’t get the hang of chopsticks until a few years ago, but there’s no reason your little one – or hey, if you’re a late bloomer yourself – can’t practice plucking their way to a full belly with Fred’s Chopstick Kids right now. Simply insert the included melamine sticks, or your favourite wood or fancy ivory ones, and suddenly that oh-so-delicate balance of hoisting a morsel of kung pao chicken is that much easier. A fun favour to bring to a party, or to give to your own kids as a means of introducing them to Chinese New Year.

Joe Ledbetter Chinese Zodiac Mini Figures – $16.99 each @ Lost Marbles
Cartoon-y artist Joe Ledbetter’s work has been making its way off the page and into 3D form for years now, including these cheery, crazy Chinese Zodiac interpretations. Pick one up for your boyfriend, best friend, or best coworker’s desk, or gift a savvy teen for their birthday. You’ll see 2012′s dragon mascot in the bottom left corner if you’d like to go with something thematically appropriate for the year, or stick with your giftee’s actual sign.

Baby Fortune Cookie Slippers – $28 USD @ Uncommon Goods
If you’ve got some friends with the good fortune of bringing a little one into the world, these handmade slippers are just the ticket for an adorable gift idea. Packed in a Chinese takeout container and containing baby-appropriate fortunes, these little wonders won’t end up in the discard pile after the tot’s grown out of them. Bonus points if you gift this to a new momma that gives birth on Chinese New Year.

Dragon Scale Chainmail Bracelets – $25 USD @ Serenity In Chains
Sometimes you don’t need to go really literal to get the desired effect. These chainmail bracelets evoke dragon scales, but in a very fashion-forward futuristic sort of way. If a pal is hosting a New Year get-together sometime soon, bring this along as a cheery, alternative take on the holiday.

What it is: Playing cards bedeck with a glittering cold coating and housed in their very own protective playing case.
Who it’s for: Your boyfriend that’s looking to start up a poker night with his friends. Your sister that’s planning a trip to Vegas and wants to get some cardshark practice in. Your nephew that’s far too precious and young to realize how nerdy magic tricks are.
What it costs: $22
Where it’s at: Toronto-based Drake General Store

Organix Moroccan Argan Oil Hair Products – $8.99+ @ Drugstores
This salon-inspired drugstore brand is making a difference – it’s just a few dollars more than your everyday faves yet boasts benefits for both your body (unique essential oils and paraben-free) and the planet (eco-friendly packaging, organic ingredients, and sulfate-free). Their Moroccan Argan Oil line is among the most extensive, with everything from your basic shampoo and conditioner to defining creams, hair masks, and pure oils to give your hair a touchably smooth forecast on an everyday basis.

Conair Volume Boost Hair Dryer + Infiniti Pro Professional Heat Straightener – $59.99 each wherever Conair products are sold
Styling tools are like the cell phones of the cosmetics world: they are constantly innovating, and these two new products from Conair are no exception. The peppy purple hair dryer pictured above is designed to dry your hair quicker, and boost volume with the new volumizing pik attachment – an major must in the days of flat, staticky hair. The 1-2 punch being offered up by Conair also extends to their new nano-tourmaline dryer, designed for gals on the go: the quick-heat setting and extra long plates make it easy to get your hair – whether it starts out straight or not – into ship shape for the work day. Despite the awesome features, heat styling still causes damage to your hair…luckily both of these hair helpers come with a bonus bottle of argan oil to lock in shine and moisture and give you a salon-ready look.

Moroccanoil Treatment – $41+ @ Moroccanoil / your fave beauty salon
So we’ve covered everyday styling products infused with argan oil, and styling tools that come with bonus bottles of argan oil, but let’s get down to the real deal: Moroccanoil is probably the leading brand out there to take ownership of the whole hair oil craze. You can find their full line of products in just about any beauty salon worth their salt, or check out Canadian online retailers like Aru. There’s tons of styling aids and creams – from hairspray and mousse to glitter shine spray and a hydrating mask – but the true blue product is their Moroccanoil treatment: pure, ultra-nourishing argan oil. And if you’ve got thin but still fussy hair, there’s also the ‘light’ treatment that’s a little less intense. Score a small bottle as a stocking stuffer next year, or give it as part of a beauty-inspired package for your mom, sister, or friend.

Valentine’s is a particularly tricky one, because so many people see it as a ‘Hallmark’ holiday, a corporate-driven affair that forces us to blow cash to show our affection – something we should be doing everyday (minus the cash-spending part, maybe). I’m indifferent because my anniversary is a week after V-Day, and I have my own tradition for that day which involves a sentimental gift as opposed to a purchased gift. That being said, a lot of people DO celebrate Valentine’s Day, so consider this (and the subsequent guy’s post) as ideas that aren’t for the haters.

On the etiquette front?

1) If you’ve been dating for 3-4 months or less, skip the real ‘gifts’. Go out for dinner. Send flowers to her office. Surprise him with his favourite Starbucks drink. Buy a pair of heart-shaped cookies and stay in to watch a movie. Don’t make a big deal out of it, and keep your spend – and expectations – to a reasonable level.

2) If you’re in a longer-term relationship, you’ve probably had an honest talk about Cupid’s favourite holiday and what it does or doesn’t mean to the both of you. Gauge your gift-giving accordingly – maybe use it as an excuse to buy something you know they’ll love, romance-themed or not. Be forewarned: if you do something crazy splashy this year, you’ll forever be doomed to top it.

3) If you’re newlyweds, newly cohabitated, or just seriously head over heels kinda sorta annoyingly in love at the moment, consider getting something fun and flirty to keep that fire burning.

4) If you’re settled into the sweet & comforting groove of marriage (or common law), don’t think that Valentine’s is just for the kids. By the same token, don’t build up your expectations to crazy unreasonable levels either. Go out for a special evening and give each other a nice token of your affection. Dial it up or down depending on the type of year you’ve had. Did she just give birth to your first child? Give her a treat to remind her she’s super important to you. Did he just get a promotion at work? Celebrate it with an extra special treat. Do you have a major – 25 or 50 – year anniversary on the horizon? Turn down the volume a bit: you’ve got another major gift-giving occasion coming up.

Got it? Great. Now here are four picks based on my four ‘gift-equette’ categories above, this time geared for the ladies:

For The Dating Gamers: Candy Hearts Shaped Puzzle – $15.95 @ The Spoon Sisters
Still getting to know one another? Spend an evening in and just talk, drink wine, and enjoy each other’s company over a fun, Valentine’s-themed puzzle. If you love the finished product, get it laminated (or use puzzle glue) and hang it up for a lifelong memory of those early days together.

For The Longer-Term Lovers: Love Listography – $11.48 @ Indigo
I love the entire series of Listography books, and this one is a fun and frivolous way to tip your hat to the holiday. If you’re unfamiliar, the concept is to basically make a list based on the provided topics. They can range from your relationship pet peeves (be sure to show him that page) to your favourite love songs (and maybe that one) to your favourite positions (and hey, that one as well) – all in the name of documenting your romantic mindset right here, right now.

For The Newly United: Rose Elixir Massage Candle – $19.99 @ La Vie En Rose
Everyone loves the idea of dinner – or kisses – by candlelight, but this simple beauty has a little trick up its sleeve. Once you blow out the candle, the wax transforms into a floral massage oil, perfect for a little post-dinner intimacy.

For The Dearly Beloved: Mademoizelle Sefra Ring in Sterling Silver & Obsidian Crystal – $375
I know, I know – it’s a pretty seismic price jump from items #1 to #3 to item #4, but there’s only so many occasions in which I could feature Canadian jewelery designer Mademoizelle Sefra’s collection of pretty baubles, and this seemed to be one of them. This stunning sterling ring is a true eye-catcher, and a fun way to make heart-shaped jewelery less costume and more cocktail.