Bunch of Cooks

Whole Grain Flour

2012-02-26T12:30:00.004-08:00

Okay, so I am SUPER excited to share this and I hope at least one of you love this as much as I do.

I ran across this girls website/blog a few years ago and have been following her ever since. I think she has some great ideas and ways of incorporating whole foods into your diet that don't seem super radical. But one of my favorite things she introduced me to was her white flour substitute. I have been trying to eliminate white flour from our diet over the last few year. But you can't make chocolate chip cookies with wheat flour, right? Anyways so far I've made pancakes, muffins and cookies with this whole grain flour and they've been delicious and you feel so much better knowing it's whole grain.

Here is the link to the video for the whole grain flour:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hP_4i0ksNAs

Pretty much it's equal parts spelt, barley, and brown rice. Mix and put through the wheat grinder.

Here is a link to her website as well:

http://www.unconventionalkitchen.com/

Enjoy!

Hot Fudge

2012-02-17T19:53:00.000-08:00

Hot fudge is a current weakness of mine....just add it to the growing list.

1 cup butter
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 cups white sugar
1 (12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine butter, cocoa, sugar and evaporated milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil and boil for 7 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla. Carefully pour hot mixture into a blender and blend for 2 to 4 minutes. Serve immediately. Store in refrigerator.

Yogurt

2012-01-24T16:34:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine introduced me to homemade yogurt. It's so easy and really good. I prefer it to store bought yogurt, but honestly it's pretty close. I tried to do the math to see how much it saves you, but it really depends on how much you pay for milk and powdered milk. I bought a gallon of milk for about $3 and a 10 cup container of powdered milk for about $10 and the total cost of the yogurt came to $0.04/oz. My favorite way to eat this is with Nichole's granola and fresh fruit.

Ingredients:

1 gallon whole* milk
1 cup sugar
1 Tbsp vanilla
4 cups powdered milk
Small** container plain yogurt

Bring approx. half of the milk and all of the sugar to a boil. Take off heat. Mix together the other half of the milk, vanilla, powdered milk, and yogurt. Pour the hot milk mixture into the cold milk mixture and stir. Pour into jars (I use mason jars). Put lids on the jars, then wrap each jar in a dish towel like you were wrapping a present. Preheat the oven to 250 degrees, then turn off once it's heated. Put the towel-covered jars in the warm oven and leave overnight. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Makes 5 quarts.

*I've also used 2% milk before, it just makes the yogurt a little thinner.
**I just buy the smallest, cheapest container I can find. You can even use your own yogurt as a starter, I just always forget to save some!

Creamy Hot Chipotle Dip

2012-01-23T12:46:00.000-08:00

Make this....you'll thank me. I had this at a party over Christmas, I don't have a picture, but I don't want to lose the recipe, so I'm putting it here.

1 cup sour cream
1 8 oz. package cream cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
2 Tbsp. chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
2 tsp. chicken flavored bullion
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 Tbsp. lime juice
Preheat oven to 350. Spray a 2 qt. baking dish with cooking spray and set aside. Combine sour cream, cream cheese, 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, peppers and bullion. Bake 20 minutes. Stir in cilantro and line and sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake until melted, about 2 minutes.

Pretzel Jello Salad

2012-01-05T15:33:00.000-08:00

This was my contribution to a few of the parties we went to this Christmas. Since it was a hit, I figured it was post worthy. It has been debated if it is a side dish or a dessert. To that I say, who cares, its just yummy.

Ingredients

2 cups crushed pretzels
3/4 cup melted butter
3 tablespoons sugar, plus 3/4 cup sugar
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese
1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping
2 (3-ounce) packages strawberry or raspberry gelatin dessert mix
2 cups boiling water
2 (10-ounce) packages frozen strawberries or mixed berries
1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple
Whipped topping or whipped cream, to garnish

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

For the crust, mix the pretzels, butter, and 3 tablespoons of sugar. Press this mixture into a 9 by 13-inch pan and bake for 7 minutes. Set aside and allow to cool.

In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and 3/4 cup of sugar. Fold in the whipped topping, and spread over the cooled crust. Refrigerate until well chilled.

In a small bowl, dissolve the gelatin in the boiling water, and allow to cool slightly. Add the strawberries and pineapple, and pour over the cream cheese mixture. Refrigerate until serving time.

To serve, cut slices and serve with a dollop of whipped topping.

What are we all making for Christmas morning breakfast?

2011-12-20T14:18:00.000-08:00

Easy and Fast Greek Gyros

2011-11-09T09:45:00.000-08:00

I made this last night and it was delicious, healthy and easy.

Serves 4

Ingredients
FOR THE GYRO FILLING:
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
½ pounds Sliced Deli Roast Beef (cut in strips)
6 drops Worcestershire Sauce
4 dashes Lemon Pepper
2 dashes Paprika
2 teaspoons Garlic Powder, Divided
6 dashes Black Pepper
_____
FOR THE TZATZIKI SAUCE:
2 whole Cucumber, Divided Use *one was plenty
2 containers 8oz Greek Yogurt *12 oz was plenty
1 whole Red Onion, Divided Use *1/2 was plenty
4 dashes White Wine Vinegar
1 teaspoon Dill
1 teaspoon Salt
_____
FOR ASSEMBLY:
4 slices Naan Bread Or Any Flatbread
2 whole Tomato, Sliced
¼ pounds Feta Cheese, Diced
¾ pounds Canned Black Olives Sliced *didn't add
*I added spinach

Preparation Instructions
For gyro filling:
Heat olive oil in a skillet and add beef, worcestershire sauce, a dash of lemon pepper, paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, black pepper, and heat the beef. Let it sit on low heat while tzatziki sauce is prepared.
For Tzatziki sauce:
Finely dice half of the cucumber and combine with yogurt, 1/4 of the red onion finely diced, vinegar, and all remaining seasonings.
Spray your flatbread with cooking spray and put it under the broiler until it is soft and warmed through. Fill it with a generous amount of roast beef, followed by lots of tzatziki sauce, feta cheese, tomato, cucumber, and black olives.

Turkey & Quinoa Meatloaf

2011-10-11T12:10:00.000-07:00

1/4 cup quinoa
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
1 large clove garlic, chopped
1 (20 ounce) package ground turkey
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon hot pepper sauce
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 egg
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon water

Bring the quinoa and water to a boil in a saucepan over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the quinoa is tender, and the water has been absorbed, about 15 to 20 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in the onion; cook and stir until the onion has softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute; remove from heat to cool.
Stir the turkey, cooked quinoa, onions, tomato paste, hot sauce, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire, egg, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until well combined. The mixture will be very moist. Shape into a loaf on a foil lined baking sheet. Combine the brown sugar, 2 teaspoons Worcestershire, and 1 teaspoon water in a small bowl. Rub the paste over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake in the preheated oven until no longer pink in the center, about 50 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 160 degrees F (70 degrees C). Let the meatloaf cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

weight watcher's zero point garden vegetable soup

2011-10-11T11:54:00.000-07:00

6 cups broth Cooking spray
2 carrots, peeled and diced
1 large onion, diced
4 teaspoons garlic (from a jar or substitute four cloves minced garlic)
1/2 cabbage, chopped
1/2 pound frozen green beans
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 large zucchini, diced

Spray a pot or dutch oven with cooking spray and heat on MEDIUM HIGH. Add the carrots, onion and garlic and cook for about 5 minutes. Add all the remaining ingredients EXCEPT the zucchini and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce the heat to MEDIUM and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the beans are tender. Add the zucchini and cook until the zucchini are tender. Serve and enjoy!

NUTRITION ESTIMATE

Per Cup: 61 Cal (3% from Fat, 24% from Protein, 73% from Carb); 4 g Protein; 0 g Tot Fat; 0 g Sat Fat; 13 g Carb; 3 g Fiber; NetCarb10; NetCarb10; 52 mg Calcium; 1 mg Iron; 701 mg Sodium; 0 mg Cholesterol; Weight Watchers ... hmmm ... 1 point

Chile Lime Chicken Tacos

2011-09-06T16:09:00.000-07:00

I found this recipe on Pinterest and tweaked it a bit to my liking...

Ingredients:

1 can diced green chilies
green salsa (about 1/2 cup)
4 cloves minced garlic (or garlic powder if desired)
1 1/2 Tb chili powder
3 T lime juice
1 diced medium onion
2 lbs chicken breasts or tenderloins, boneless/skinless
brown sugar (to your liking-I used about 1/3 cup)
1 can refried beans, warmed
Desired toppings: lettuce, cheese, salsa, sour cream, olives
10 Tostada shells

Directions:

Put Chicken and onion in crockpot.
In bowl, combine chillies, garlic, chili powder, lime juice, green salsa.
Pour over chicken
Cook on low 5-6 hours
Remove chicken to Kitchenaid with paddle, turn on to shred for a few seconds.
I wanted the chicken a little sweeter so I added brown sugar to the sauce here.
Add 1/2-3/4 c juice from crockpot to chicken.
Layer on tostada shells: refried beans, chicken, etc.

These are so easy and so yummy!
Also, if you happen to have a favorite recipe for black bean, corn, and avocado salsa-ADD IT! It was SUCH a good topping on these.

Dutch Oven Caramel Apple Pie

2011-09-05T19:14:00.000-07:00

This recipe won me a major award at a ward campout!

Ingredients

18 Rhodes AnyTime!™ Cinnamon Rolls, thawed but still cold
2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup chopped pecans

Caramel Icing
2 packets cream cheese frosting (included with rolls)
1/3 cup caramel ice cream topping

Instructions

Cut each roll into 4 pieces and arrange in the bottom of a 14-inch Dutch oven lined with aluminum foil or sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. In a bowl combine apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, cracker crumbs and pecans. Sprinkle evenly over cut rolls. Cover with lid and bake at 350°F 25-30 minutes.

For icing combine cream cheese frosting with caramel topping. Drizzle over pie while still warm.
Dutch Oven Temperature Control using Briquets:
350°F in a 14-inch Dutch oven, oven top 18, oven bottom 10

Texas Sheet Cake

2011-09-05T19:03:00.001-07:00

Texas Sheet Cake

2 cups flour

2 cups white sugar

2 cubes margarine or butter

1 cup water

4 tbsp cocoa powder

2 eggs, beaten

1 tsp soda

1 tsp vanilla

1/2 cup sour milk (1 tsp white vinegar and then the rest regular milk)

Mix flour and sugar in a large mixing bowl. In a sauce pan bring margarine, water and cocoa to a boil. Pour boiling mixture into flour mixture and mix thoroughly. Add eggs, milk soda and vanilla and mix until very smooth. Batter will be runny. Cook in a large baking sheet (I call it a cookie sheet.) Grease and flour the pan, but don’t use flour use cocoa powder. It works great on chocolate cake or brownies. Bake at 350° for 30-40 minutes. My oven only needs 28-30 minutes so watch it close. (It really depends on the pan you use.) A toothpick will come out clean when it is ready. Let cool and frost with following frosting recipe…

Fudgey Chocolate Frosting

1 cube butter

4 tbsp cocoa powder

5 tbsp milk

3 cups powdered sugar

Bring first three ingredients to a boil. Put powdered sugar in a mixing bowl. Pour boiling mixture into the mixing bowl with the powdered sugar. Mix thoroughly until smooth. Put on cake while still warm so it will spread easily.

That’s it you’re done. Enjoy! (taken from themotherhuddle.com)

Summer Strawberry Salad

2011-09-05T19:03:00.000-07:00

Summer Strawberry Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Vinaigrette

Ingredients:
For the dressing:
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
¾ cup sugar
2 tbsp. minced shallot
¼ tsp. dry mustard
1 tsp. salt
6 tbsp. light mayonnaise
3 tbsp. freshly squeezed orange juice
6 tbsp. vegetable oil
1½ tsp. poppy seeds

For the salad:
Romaine lettuce, washed and dried
Strawberries, hulled and sliced
Blueberries
Mandarin orange segments
Fresh pineapple, cubed

Directions:
In the bowl of a food processor, combine the vinegar, sugar, shallot, dry mustard, salt, mayonnaise and orange juice. Process to blend well. With the feed tube open and the processor on, add the vegetable oil in a steady stream and continue processing until incorporated. Add the poppy seeds and pulse briefly just until blended. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use.

To make the salad, chop the lettuce into bite-size pieces. Plate individual servings of the lettuce in salad plates. Top each serving with strawberries, blueberries, mandarin oranges and pineapple cubes as desired. Drizzle lightly with the poppy seed dressing and serve immediately.

Carrot and Zucchini Bars

2011-08-15T13:32:00.000-07:00

These are delicious!!

ingredients

1-1/2
cups all-purpose flour
1
teaspoon baking powder
1/2
teaspoon ground ginger
1/4
teaspoon baking soda
2
eggs, slightly beaten
1-1/2
cups shredded carrot
1
medium zucchini, shredded (1 cup)
3/4
cup packed brown sugar
1/2
cup raisins
1/2
cup chopped walnuts
1/2
cup cooking oil
1/4
cup honey
1
teaspoon vanilla
1
recipe Citrus-Cream Cheese Frosting
directions
1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a large bowl combine flour, baking powder, ginger, and baking soda. In another large bowl stir together eggs, carrot, zucchini, brown sugar, raisins, walnuts, oil, honey, and vanilla. Add carrot mixture to flour mixture, stirring just until combined. Spread batter into an ungreased 13x9x2-inch baking pan.
2.Bake about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool completely in pan on a wire rack. Frost with Citrus-Cream Cheese Frosting. Cut into bars.
3.Makes 36 bars
4.Citrus-Cream Cheese Frosting: In a medium mixing bowl beat one 8-ounce package softened cream cheese and 1 cup powdered sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until fluffy. If desired, stir in 1 teaspoon finely shredded lemon peel or orange peel.
nutrition facts
Calories125

Total Fat (g)7

Saturated Fat (g)2,
Monounsaturated Fat (g)2,
Polyunsaturated Fat (g)3,
Cholesterol (mg)19,
Sodium (mg)44,
Carbohydrate (g)16,
Total Sugar (g)11,
Fiber (g)1,
Protein (g)2,
Vitamin C (DV%)1,
Calcium (DV%)18,
Iron (DV%)1,
Other Carbohydrates (d.e.)1,
Fat (d.e.)1,
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Garden Chicken Stir Fry

2011-08-04T15:33:00.000-07:00

I made this recipe last night and it was soooo good!

Its from Our Best Bites and is only 350 cal!

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 teaspoons finely chopped gingerroot
1 medium onion, cut into thin wedges
1 cup ready-to-eat baby-cut carrots, cut lengthwise in half
1 cup fat-free chicken broth
1 tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce
3 teaspoons sugar
2-3 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 cup sliced fresh mushrooms (3 oz)
1 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
Hot cooked brown rice, if desired

Procedure:

Heat 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, garlic and gingerroot; cook and stir 2 to 3 minutes or until chicken is brown.

Stir in onion, carrots, 3/4 cup of the broth, the soy sauce and sugar. Cover and cook over medium heat 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Stir in broccoli, mushrooms and bell pepper. Cover and cook about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is no longer pink in center and vegetables are crisp-tender.

In small bowl, mix cornstarch and remaining 1/4 cup broth; stir into chicken mixture. Cook, stirring frequently, until sauce is thickened.

Serve over rice.

A Healthy Sloppy Joe

2011-08-04T09:00:00.000-07:00

This recipe is from The Eat Clean Diet by Tosca Reno. I love a lot of her recipes from her book and Scott says these are the best sloppy joes he's ever had.

In a small bowl combine:

1/2 c low sodium chili sauce (I have a hard time finding it so I use tomato sauce)

2 T. tomato paste

1 T. Worcertershire sauce

1 t. cumin, sea salt, black pepper, and chili powder

1 T. white wine vinegar

1 T. dried, crumbled oregano

Saute:

1 T. olive oil

1/4 c. sweet onion, celery

1 clove garlic, chopped fine

Add:

1 lb. lean ground turkey or lean ground beef

Once browned add:

3/4 c. brown rice

Handful of chopped scallions

Then combine with sauce.

Put on multi-grain buns

67

2011-07-15T13:59:00.001-07:00

:CoNtEsT:

{2 ways to win}

To date I have tried 67 recipes from this blog.
Can anyone top me??
If so, you get a prize.

Also.....
Post the amount that you have tried and you will be entered in a drawing for another prize. It is easier to count if you look on the right side in the archives. Click each month then click the triangle. It will drop down the list. It does not matter if you have made it or just tried it from somewhere else. Your own do not count.
Due date: July 20th

any good cauliflower recipes?

2011-07-11T10:57:00.000-07:00

I need to use up 2 heads of cauliflower that I got in my bountiful basket on saturday... anyone know of a good recipe??

While I was searching online, I found this one:

http://thisweekfordinner.com/2011/06/21/a-healthy-twist-on-classic-potato-salad/

I haven't tried it, but looks delish.

Crock Pot Oatmeal

2011-06-24T09:34:00.000-07:00

I know this isn't the right time of year, but my kids are crazy about oatmeal! They are also wanting to eat the minute they wake up, and are usually unwilling to wait the 5 or so minutes it takes for me to cook oatmeal for them. I stumbled upon this recipe, and it's perfect! I loved waking up this morning to a yummy smelling kitchen. Enjoy!

2 cups steel cut oats

4 cups water

4 cups milk (I used almond milk to give it a nutty flavor)

2 tsp cinnamon

You can also add in whatever... last night I put in sliced peaches and it was wonderful!

I also like apples, craisins or raisins, walnuts, frozen berries, etc.

We sweetened ours with pure maple syrup (trying to switch from the usual brown sugar) and I really enjoyed that as well!

***BUDGET TIP***
Steel cut oats can be pretty pricey. I found a 25 lb bag of Bob's Red Mill steel cut oats at WinCo market for $20. That is a huge savings, and it is good for your food storage as well!

Fruit Salad

2011-06-22T23:54:00.000-07:00

Since my cute sister keeps posting the unhealthy stuff, how about something sweet that it slightly better for you? Not only is this good for you, but it's a super easy recipe too. Don't believe me? This is literally all you need:

1 can fruit cocktail, undrained
1 can pineapple chunks, drained (save juice)
1 small sugar free Jello vanilla pudding
1 8 oz. tub light Cool Whip (or similar)

Put the fruit cocktail and pineapple in a bowl. Give the pineapple juice to the dog. Sprinkle the pudding on top and mix a little. Fold in the Cool Whip. Cover and chill for about 1 hour.
NOTE: Some people like banana flavored things. I'm not one of them. However, you can use banana pudding if that is something you like. I also add 1/2 cup flaked coconut if I happen to have some on hand.

Orange Rolls

2011-06-20T10:03:00.000-07:00

My goal here is to post so many delicious recipes that you all can't resist, resulting in making you super fat, there for making me look not so bad. Here is a weapon of choice.....(and I mean that all in the nicest way)

1 package of Rhodes frozen roll dough
Butter, softened
Sugar
Orange zest
Powdered sugar
Fresh orange juice

1. Let the frozen dough thaw out on the counter for about two hours.
2. Once the dough is workable, but still cool, roll the dough balls into ropes and then tie a knot.
3. Dip the knots in softened butter.
4. Combine the sugar and orange zest with your fingers. Dip the buttered knots into the orange/sugar mixture.

:Ingredients:
5. Place rolls in a greased pan and let rise for at least 40 minutes or until doubled in size.
6. Bake at 350 degrees for about 15-20 minutes, until they are golden.

7. Let the rolls cool. Make a glaze by combining powdered sugar, orange zest, and fresh orange juice. Whisk until smooth. I didn’t measure but you want the consistency to be a glaze.
8. With a spoon ice the rolls with the orange glaze.

Creme Brulee French Toast

2011-06-18T20:59:00.000-07:00

This is what the Mr. is getting for Father's Day breakfast.

Ingredients

* 1/2 cup unsalted butter
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 tablespoons corn syrup
* 1 loaf French bread-sliced 1 to 1-1/2 inches thick
* 5 eggs
* 1 1/2 cups half-and-half cream
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 teaspoon brandy-based orange liqueur (such as Grand Marnier®)-If you are fresh out of liqueur you can put in some, o.j. concentrate, o.j. with some grated rind or orange extract.
* 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Mix in brown sugar and corn syrup, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Pour into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. Remove crusts from bread(or not), and arrange in the baking dish in a single layer. In a small bowl, whisk together eggs, half and half, vanilla extract, orange brandy, and salt. Pour over the bread. Cover, and chill at least 8 hours, or overnight.

3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Remove the dish from the refrigerator, and bring to room temperature.
4. Bake uncovered 35 to 40 minutes in the preheated oven, until puffed and lightly browned.

This is a perfect holiday food because it can be made the night before.

Salad Kit

2011-06-18T12:14:00.001-07:00

I just thought I would share my current favorite thing to eat. It is perfect for summertime.

It is at Costso for $3 and some change. At Costco it is not spinach, it is a perfect lettuce mix, but I am sure it is great either way. It is a complete kit, making it super easy, and we love easy, right ladies:)

I.LOVE.IT!

Sopapilla Cheesecake Pie

2011-06-06T08:57:00.000-07:00

I had these at a baby blessing yesterday. They were so delightful, I had to track down the owner for the recipe.

Prep Time: 15 Min
Cook Time: 45 Min
Ready In: 3 Hrs

Ingredients

* 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
* 1 cup white sugar
* 1 teaspoon Mexican vanilla extract
* 2 (8 ounce) cans refrigerated crescent rolls
* 3/4 cup white sugar
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 cup butter, room temperature
* 1/4 cup honey

Directions

1. Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Beat the cream cheese with 1 cup of sugar and the vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.
3. Unroll the cans of crescent roll dough, and use a rolling pin to shape each piece into 9x13 inch rectangles. Press one piece into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture into the baking dish, then cover with the remaining piece of crescent dough. Stir together 3/4 cup of sugar, cinnamon, and butter. Dot the mixture over the top of the cheesecake.
4. Bake in the preheated oven until the crescent dough has puffed and turned golden brown, about 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and drizzle with honey. Cool completely in the pan before cutting into 12 squares.

Chocolate-Peanut Butter Green Smoothie

2011-06-03T09:52:00.000-07:00

This is for you Markey~

My 4 year old was getting a little whiney about having to drink his green smoothie, and wasn't finishing his up. Then I tried this smoothie from pg. 65 of the Green Smoothie Girl's Big Book of Smoothies (first that I have tried so far) I think that his whole, totally filled to the top glass was literally INHALED within a minute.

anyway, this is how I made it:

12-16 oz of filtered fridge water
2 bananas- frozen & chunked
2 scoops of peanut butter
several BIG handfuls of spinach
a small dash of agave nectar
1 scoop of chocolate powder- I don't know what it's called, but I got it from the self serve bins at good earth

the "real" recipe:

8 oz. water
1 banana
1 large handful of spinach
1 scoop chocolate protien powder
1 tsp peanut butter
2 ice cubes

They are basically the same... I doubled mine because it was for more than one serving. Also- I am a little leary of protien powder. Not sure why?

Buttery Soft Pretzels

2011-04-28T14:18:00.000-07:00

I haven't actually tried this yet, but I saw this on allrecipes.com and it got great ratings... and I didn't want to forget about, it so I thought I would share it here until I had gotten around to making them. I have to admit that soft pretzels are a major weekness of mine! If any of you try the recipe before I do, let me know how it turns out!

Ingredients

4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 teaspoon white sugar
1 1/4 cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
5 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup white sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 cup baking soda
4 cups hot water
1/4 cup kosher salt, for topping

Directions

In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and 1 teaspoon sugar in warm water. Let stand until creamy, about 10 minutes.
In a large bowl, mix together flour, 1/2 cup sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center; add the oil and yeast mixture. Mix and form into a dough. If the mixture is dry, add one or two tablespoons of water. Knead the dough until smooth, about 7 to 8 minutes. Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough in the bowl and turn to coat with oil. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C). In a large bowl, dissolve baking soda in hot water.
When risen, turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and twist into a pretzel shape. Once all of the dough is all shaped, dip each pretzel into the baking soda solution and place on a greased baking sheet. Sprinkle with kosher salt.
Bake in preheated oven for 8 minutes, until browned.

Green Smoothies

2011-04-04T10:11:00.000-07:00

I know some of you make green smoothies and I would LOVE your recipes. We are in a bit of a rut.
Here is the current favorite but it is getting a little redundant. I apologize I don't know the exact amount but I will estimate.
A bunch of spinach-maybe 3 packed handfuls
Apple Juice-about a cup
Vanilla Yogurt-6 oz.
1 Banana-I like to keep it in the fridge so it doesn't bring down the chill of my other ingredients.
1/2-1 juice of a lime-THIS IS KEY, I don't know why but it is just not the same with out it.
Ice-optional
Blend~Taste~Add more greens (repeat until you can barely taste the greens but it is still yummy)

It makes enough for a sippy full for about a 10 oz for B and 16 oz. for me.
I like to put them in these sippies. They are $1 and I break the spout for a bigger opening. Straw cups work great too but I don't feel like I can get the staw clean on the inside. It might just be in my head but it freaks me out thinking greens are hiding in there.

I also like these alot. Every few months Costco sends out a coupon for them. You just add milk and a ton of spinach. They are yummy!

CoNtEsT : Results

2011-04-01T08:38:00.000-07:00

Super Easy Chicken Manacotti

2011-03-27T14:20:00.000-07:00

1 Jar spaghetti sauce (25.5 oz)
1 tsp garlic salt
1 1/2 lbs chicken breast, cubed
14 uncooked manicotti shells
1 can (2 1/2 oz) sliced olives
2 cups shredded mozzerella cheese

Spread 1/3 of the spaghetti sauce in a 9X13 baking dish. Sprinkle garlic salt on the chicken. Cube the chicken and don't cook it. Insert into uncooked manicotti shells, stuffing each end if necessary. Place shells in dish. Pour remaining sauce over the opt. Sprinkle olives and cheese on top. (I actually skip the olives, because it's always sounded a little weird.) Cover and store overnight in your fridge. (This sounds good for Sunday, right?) Bake the next day for about 1 hour.

Spinach Stuffed Shells

2011-03-27T14:15:00.000-07:00

12-16 Large Shell Noodles, cooked about 8 minutes until pliable, but NOT mushy.
1 cup cottage cheese
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese
1 10 oz. pkg spinach thawed and pressed dry
2 cloves garlic, smooshed
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1 egg
1 BOTTLE SPAGHETTI SAUCE :)

Spray cooking spray on the bottom of a 9X13 pan and pour some of the sauce in. Mix everything except sauce and spoon into the shells. Pour the remaining sauce over the top. Add more cheese (cuz everything is better with more cheese) and bake at 350 for 45 minutes.

Broccoli Madness Salad

2011-03-17T15:45:00.000-07:00

1 bunch uncooked broccoli, cut into florets

1/2 cup crumbled cooked bacon
1/2 cup cashews
1/3 cup raisins
1/4 cup chopped red onion

Dressing:

1 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup sugar
2 T. apple cider vinegar

Mix the broccoli, bacon, cashews, raisins and onions in a large bowl. In a second bowl, beat dressing ingredients together gently until smooth.

About 10 minutes before serving, toss the salad with the dressing to allow flavors to meld. Serve on chilled salad dishes.

Strawberry Glaze Cake

2011-03-17T15:07:00.000-07:00

1 butter cake mix
2 Tbsp flour
1/2 cup water
3/4 cup vegetable oil
4 eggs
2/3 cup frozen sweetened sliced strawberry
1 small box strawberry jello

In a large bowl combine cake mix, flour, water, oil & eggs. Beat with an electric mixer for 2 minutes. Add frozen strawberries & strawberry jello. Beat well. Pour into 2 greased & floured 8 or 9 inch round cake pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes. Cool 10 minutes in the pan & the turn out & cool completely on a wire rack. Frost between layer, sides & top of cakes with strawberry glaze.

Strawberry Glaze

1 stick butter, softened
2 cups powder sugar
2/3 cup sliced frozen strawberries with juice
1/2 tsp salt

In a medium bowl cream together butter, sugar & salt. Whip until light & fluffy. Beat in strawberries & juice.

White Bean Salad

2011-03-16T13:46:00.000-07:00

2 1/2 cups cooked white beans (drained and rinsed if using canned)*
3 large stalks celery, sliced
1 small onion, diced
1 small green or red pepper, diced
1/2 cup black olives, drained
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3 tablespoons olive oil
5 tablespoons white vinegar
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
1 pinch paprika

Combine beans, celery, onion, bell pepper, olives and tomatoes in a large bowl and mix well. Mix remaining ingredients together and pour over bean mixture. Toss well, cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours to allow flavors to mix. Salt and pepper to taste.

This makes a big salad, so you might want to cut it in half. Otherwise, you'd better really like it, because you'll be eating it for a week.

White Bean Chili with Salsa Verde

2011-03-16T13:44:00.001-07:00

Ingredients
-Salsa Verde-

¾ pound ground raw turkey (may use pork or chicken)
½ cup chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
3 cups water
1 15-ounce can great northern or white kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 4-ounce can diced green chilies
2 teaspoons instant chicken bouillon granules
1 teaspoon ground cumin
¼ teaspoon pepper
¼ cup water
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (4 ounces)

5 or 6 fresh tomatillos (6 to 8 ounces), husks removed, and finely chopped, or one 13-ounce can tomatillos, drained, rinsed, and finely chopped
2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
2 serrano or jalapeno peppers, seeded and finely chopped
1 tablespoon snipped fresh cilantro or parsley
1 teaspoon finely shredded lime peel
1 Tablespoon lime juice (to taste)
½ teaspoon sugar

1. For Salsa Verde, in a medium mixing bowl, stir together tomatillos, onion, serrano or jalapeno peppers, cilantro or parsley, lime peel, and sugar. Cover and chill up to 2 days or freeze up to 1 month; thaw before using.

2. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, cook ground turkey, onion, and garlic until turkey is no longer pink and onion is tender. Drain fat from pan if necessary.

3. Stir in the 3 cups water, beans, undrained chili peppers, chicken bouillon granules, cumin, and pepper. Bring to boiling. Reduce heat and simmer, covered for 30 minutes.

4. In a small bowl stir together the 1/4 cup water and the flour. Add flour mixture to the chili mixture. Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly. Cook and stir for 1 minute more. Top each serving with some of the shredded cheese and the Salsa Verde.

White Beans

2011-03-16T13:39:00.001-07:00

I'm back with more things to do with the beans you make yourself! First of all, a super easy, no fail, anyone can do it recipe for making white beans.
White Beans (or Canelli, or Navy, or White Kidney)
1 lb dry white beans (any variety)
6 cups water
3 chicken bullion cubes
1 tsp. garlic salt

Combine all ingredients in a crock pot and cook on high for 4-5 hours. You might need to check them after around 3 hours and add a little more water (1/2-1 cup) if they seem a little dry. Voila! You're done!

Zucchini Fries

2011-03-13T20:45:00.000-07:00

Here's another tricky way to feed your kiddos their veggies and use up some leftover zucchini!

Ingredients:

* Canola or olive oil cooking spray

* 1/2 cup whole-wheat flour

* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

* 2 tablespoons cornmeal

* 1 teaspoon salt

* 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

* 1 1/2 pounds zucchini, (about 3 medium), cut into 1/2-by-3-inch sticks or smaller

* 2 large egg whites, lightly beaten

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 475°F. Coat a large baking sheet with cooking spray.
2. Combine flours, cornmeal, salt and pepper in a large sealable plastic bag. Dip zucchini in egg white, shake in the bag to coat, and arrange, not touching, on the baking sheet. Coat all exposed sides with cooking spray.
3. Bake on the center rack for 7 minutes. Turn the zucchini and coat any floury spots with cooking spray. Continue to bake until golden and just tender, about 5 minutes more. Serve hot. These are really yummy dipped in ranch dressing.

Pink Popcorn

2011-03-13T20:29:00.000-07:00

Around 15 Cups of popped popcorn (I highly recommend an air popper)

2 cups sugar

1/2 small box red Jell-O gelatin powder

1/2 cup water

1 Tbsp. butter

1 tsp. vanilla

1/4 tsp. baking soda

Put the popped popcorn in a large bowl, carefully picking out any unpopped kernels. (I do this by popping into one bowl, then lightly scooping out the popcorn with my hands into another, leaving the unpopped kernels in the bottom.) Preheat the oven to 250F. Line one or two rimmed baking sheets with foil.

In a medium saucepan (with room for the mixture to at least double in size), bring the sugar, Jell-O, water and butter to a boil. Once fully boiling, cook for 4 minutes without stirring, swirling the bowl occasionally. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla and soda. Pour over the popcorn and toss with tongs to coat completely. Spread out onto the baking sheets and bake, stirring once or twice, for an hour. Set aside to cool.

Cheesecake Dip

2011-03-13T20:23:00.000-07:00

1 pkg cream cheese

1 stick butter

1/2 cup powdered or regular sugar (powdered is better)

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup chocolate chips

1 tsp. vanilla

Mix cream cheese and butter with mixer until soft.

Add powdered and brown sugar, mix again.

Add chocolate chips and vanilla.

That is it! Serve with teddy graham crackers.

Confetti Chicken

2011-03-11T10:15:00.000-08:00

Applebee's has a great Weight Watchers Menu. A few years ago I ordered the Confetti Chicken and as I was enjoying it, I realized that I could make it at home. I don't mean to brag, but I think mine is better.

Confetti Chicken
4 Chicken Breasts
2-4 tbsp Olive Oil
2-4 tbsp lime juice
Garlic Powder, Salt and Pepper to taste

Mix the wet ingredients in a container or ziplock bag. Marinate the chicken for a few hours. Grill, bake or pan fry the chicken, whatever your preference.

Mix about 1 1/2 cups black bean salsa (below) with a drained can of corn. When the chicken is cooked, top with a little bit of cheddar cheese and some of the salsa mix. We don't serve ours with the rice, but you could make some rice to go with it.

Black Bean Salsa II

2011-03-11T10:13:00.000-08:00

Black Bean Salsa
2 cups black beans
2 cups chopped tomato
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1/2 cup chopped red onion
4-5 minced garlic cloves
2 tbsp. chopped cilantro
1 tsp salt
2 tsp sugar

Mix and refrigerate a few hours to let flavors blend. Serve with tortilla chips.

Super Healthy Black Bean Soup

2011-03-11T09:57:00.000-08:00

Black Bean Soup
8 oz. Ham or Canadian Bacon
2 14oz. Cans Chicken Broth
1 Large Clove Garlic, chopped
2 Medium Carrots, grated
1 Large Onion, chopped
2 Medium Stalks Celery, chopped
1 tsp red pepper
1 tsp dried oregano
30 oz. Black Beans (a little less than 4 cups)

Cut up the ham, onion and garlic. Cook over medium heat until the onion is tender (about 5 minutes). Stir in broth, carrot, celery and spices. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat, cover and simmer about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, divide the beans into equal parts. Mash half with a fork or potato masher. Add mashed and whole beans to the broth and heat through. Serve with sour cream, lime wedges, tomatoes, cilantro and cheese.

Black Beans

2011-03-11T09:48:00.000-08:00

Do you want to feel like a rock star? Who doesn't??? I've recently started making my own beans, using the dry ones that you buy in the big can at the cannery. It's so easy and makes me feel like such a Susie Homemaker. Here's the recipe I use for black beans. We put them in soup, salsa, Cafe Rio copy salads, or serve them as a side dish.

Black Beans
1 cup dry black beans
3 1/2 cups water
2 tablespoons diced green chilis
1/4 cup diced white onion
1/4 cup picante sauce
1 tablespoon oregano
1 teaspoon each garlic, chili powder and salt
1 chicken bullion cube
1/2 tsp pepper

Put all ingredients in a crock pot and cook on high for around 5 hours. Check it occasionally because sometimes it needs more water. I usually double the batch and freeze half of it.

Southwest Eggrolls

2011-03-11T07:59:00.000-08:00

I love the southwest eggrolls at chili's. This is the closest recipe that I have been able to find and is ALWAYS a big hit!

TIPS- I always make them the night before and freeze them, that helps to keep their shape. Also- I don't deep fry them, I bake them in the oven at a high temp.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 skinless, boneless chicken breast half

2 tablespoons minced green onion

2 tablespoons minced red bell pepper

1/3 cup frozen corn kernels

1/4 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

2 tablespoons frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained

2 tablespoons diced jalapeno peppers

1/2 tablespoon minced fresh parsley

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

1/3 teaspoon salt

1 pinch ground cayenne pepper

3/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

5 (6 inch) flour tortillas

1 quart oil for deep frying

***I bake them in the oven***

Directions:

1.Rub 1 tablespoon vegetable oil over chicken breast. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, cook chicken approximately 5 minutes per side, until meat is no longer pink and juices run clear. Remove from heat and set aside.

2.Heat remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in green onion and red pepper. Cook and stir 5 minutes, until tender.

3.Dice chicken and mix into the pan with onion and red pepper. Mix in corn, black beans, spinach, jalapeno peppers, parsley, cumin, chili powder, salt and cayenne pepper. Cook and stir 5 minutes, until well blended and tender. Remove from heat and stir in Monterey Jack cheese so that it melts.

4.Wrap tortillas with a clean, lightly moist cloth. Microwave on high approximately 1 minute, or until hot and pliable.

5.Spoon even amounts of the mixture into each tortilla. Fold ends of tortillas, then roll tightly around mixture. Secure with toothpicks. Arrange in a medium dish, cover with plastic, and place in the freezer. Freeze at least 4 hours.

6.In a large, deep skillet, heat oil for deep frying to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Deep fry frozen, stuffed tortillas 10 minutes each, or until dark golden brown. Drain on paper towels before serving.

Cream Puffs

2011-03-10T07:47:00.000-08:00

Puffs
1 C. Water
1/2 C. Butter
1 C. Flour
4 Eggs

Cream
1 Small Instant Pudding Packet, Vanilla and chocolate are the classic choice but any other kind would be fun.
1 C. Milk
1&1/2 C. Whipped Topping

Preheat oven to 400. In a sauce pan bring water and butter, to a rolling boil. Stir in flour vigorously. Remove from heat and mix in eggs. Spray a cookie sheet. Drop 1/4 C. of the mixture about 3 inches apart. Bake until golden brown, about 35 minutes. Let cool. Break each puff open leaving part attached, like a hamburger bun. Pull out a little of the inside and spoon in a scoop of filling. Replace the tops and dust with powdered sugar. You can also add some sliced strawberries inside or drizzle the outside with chocolate for a little added fancy.

Chicken Parmesan

2011-03-08T11:56:00.000-08:00

CHICKEN PARMESAN

8 chicken breasts
flour
2 eggs
salt and pepper
breadcrumbs
2 Tbsp water
½ c oil
½ cube butter
parmesan cheese
8 slices mozzarella
pasta sauce
1-2 Tbsp olive oil

Preheat oven to 375. Pound out chicken thin. Toss chicken in flour seasoned with salt and pepper. Shake off excess, dip in combined beaten egg and water. Press on breadcrumbs. Heat butter and oil in large frying pan. Cook chicken until golden. Place in ovenproof dish. Top chicken with mozzarella, then pasta sauce, then parmesan. Drizzle with olive oil. Bake uncovered 25 minutes.

Glazed Salmon

2011-03-08T11:55:00.001-08:00

GLAZED SALMON

¼ c syrup
2 Tbsp soy sauce
1 clove minced garlic
¼ tsp garlic salt
1/8 tsp black pepper
1 Lb salmon

Mix all ingredients. Coat salmon and marinate 30 minutes. Cook at 400 for 20 minutes.

Spinach Dip

2011-03-08T11:50:00.000-08:00

SPINACH DIP

1 pkg Knorr veg soup mix
1 c mayo
8oz chopped water chestnuts
16oz sour cream
3 chopped green onions
1 box frozen chopped spinach (thawed and drained)

Mix all ingredients together.

Serve with cubed French bread, vegetables, or Ritz crackers.

My favorite Oatmeal Cookie Recipe

2011-03-08T11:16:00.000-08:00

Cream together:

1/2 c. butter

1 2 c. sugar

1/2 c. brown sugar

Add:

1/2 tsp vanilla

1 egg

Mix well.

Then add:

1 1/2 c. flour

1 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. salt

Mix.

Then add:

1 cup oatmeal, uncooked

1 cup coconut

You can add chocolate chips or raisins if you'd like too.

Bake for 10-12 minutes at 350 degrees.

Marinated Flank Steak

2011-03-08T10:56:00.001-08:00

This is a great Body for Life recipe. Super yummy flavor!

1/3 c. lite soy sauce

1 T. balsamic vinegar

1 T. olive oil

4 cloves garlic, crushed

1 tsp. ground ginger

1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

1 1/2 lb. flank steak

In a large ziploc bag, combine all ingredients except steak. Using a fork, pierce flank steak several times on both sides and place in Ziploc bag with marinade. Seal bag and refrigerate for a least an hour. ( I do it overnight.)

Place steak on broiler pan and broil 3 inches from heat source fro about 6 minutes on each side. Slice against grain into 1/8-inch slices.

Banana Muffins w/ a Crumble Topping

2011-03-08T09:24:00.000-08:00

The same friend that gave me the recipe for Libby's blessing day casserole brought these to it. It was such a yummy day thanks to Betsy!(who won't post her fantastic recipes so I post them for her and get to claim them as my own:)
I honestly cannot get enough of these.

* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 3 bananas, mashed
* 3/4 cup white sugar
* 1 egg, lightly beaten
* 1/3 cup butter, melted
* 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1 tablespoon butter

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease 10 muffin cups, or line with muffin papers.
2. In a large bowl, mix together 1 1/2 cups flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, beat together bananas, sugar, egg and melted butter. Stir the banana mixture into the flour mixture just until moistened. Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups.
3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, 2 tablespoons flour and cinnamon. Cut in 1 tablespoon butter until mixture resembles coarse cornmeal. (I cheat and melt it because I lack patients) Sprinkle topping over muffins.
4. Bake in preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into center of a muffin comes out clean.

Oreos

2011-03-07T16:32:00.000-08:00

Does everyone already know this recipe? If not, it is a real crowd pleaser!

1 Package Devils Food Cake Mix
2 Eggs
1/2 C. Oil
1/4 C. Flour
Mix ingredients and roll into balls.
Bake at 350 for 12 minutes.
Let cool and match tops and bottoms.

Cream Cheese Frosting:
1/2 cup of butter (1 stick), room temperature
8 oz of Philly cream cheese (1 package), room temperature
2 - 3 cups of powdered sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

My Mom always used to color them for the holidays. I thought it was about the coolest thing in the world. Why is food coloring so amazing to kids? I have no idea but I am one of them.

Sweet & Sour Meatballs

2011-03-03T14:28:00.000-08:00

Sauce: Mix together in bowl.

1 cup Brown Sugar

1/2 cup vinegar

2 T. mustard or dash of mustard powder

1/2 c. bbq sauce

2 T. Worshershire sauce

Frozen meatballs- I just buy the Italian ones from Costco.

Put in crock pot for til it's heated through. ( A couple of hours)

Pasta Fagoli Soup

2011-03-03T11:58:00.001-08:00

This is very healthy and it makes a lot of soup. I've also added sausage to spice it up a bit. As prepared below, each one cup serving is 290 calories, 4 grams of fat and 9 grams of fiber. Hooray!

8 ounces small pasta
2 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 pound ground turkey breast
1-2 teaspoons dried oregano
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
3 cups fat-free, reduced sodium chicken broth
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 (15 ounce) cans white kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Meanwhile, in large stockpot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté 3 minutes or until soft.

Add turkey and cook 5 minutes, until meat is browned, breaking up meat as it cooks. Add oregano and black pepper. Add broth, tomatoes and beans and bring mixture to boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer 10 minutes.

Stir in cooked pasta and heat through. Ladle mixture into bowls and top with Parmesan cheese.

Lemon Cake

2011-03-03T11:53:00.000-08:00

A contest! Hooray!!!!

If you love lemons, this is for you!

1 lemon cake mix

1 pkg lemon jello

4 eggs

3/4 cup water

3/4 cup vegetable oil

Mix ingredients. Bake at 350 for 25-30 minutes. While baking mix 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar and 1 cup lemon juice together. Let sit. While the cake is still warm, poke holes around the top and pour the glaze over the top. You can top with whipped cream if you like, but it's yummy either way!

Chicken Piccata

2011-03-02T17:32:00.000-08:00

This is by-far, me and Jason's favorite thing to eat!

Chicken Piccata

2	whole boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt, as needed
1/2	cup all purpose flour
1/4	cup grated Parmesan
2	tablespoons olive oil
3	tablespoons butter, divided
1/4	cup dry white wine
1/2	cup rich chicken stock
2	small, thin-skinned lemons, juiced
1/4	chopped parsley
2	tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained

Preparation:

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit
Lightly salt both sides of chicken cutlets. Dredge cutlets in flour and cheese mixture, patting off excess. Heat a large sauté pan over med-high heat. Add oil and one tablespoon butter. When butter foams, add cutlets, in batches if necessary, to color and cook through both sides -- a couple of minutes. Remove chicken to plate and keep warm.
Add wine, broth, and lemon juice, scraping the bottom browned bits into the sauce, reduce to sauce consistency. Remove from heat. Add pinch of salt and parsley. Swirl in the two tablespoons butter and the capers.
Pour the sauce over the chicken and serve immediately.

Frosted Sugar Cookies

2011-03-02T08:00:00.000-08:00

I can't even tell you how many times I am asked for this recipe. We can't even buy them from the bakery anymore because these are so good. Enjoy!

SUGAR COOKIES:

1 c. butter creamed

2 c. sugar

Cream together.

3 eggs

Add and beat well.

1 c. sour cream

2 tsp. vanilla

1 tsp. lemon extract or Mexican vanilla

Then add and scrap sides of bowl occasionally.

5 1/2 - 6 cups flour

1/2 tsp. salt

1 tsp. baking soda

3 tsp. baking powder

Sift together and add to the mixture.

Chill in fridge for 60 min. or freezer for 30 min.

Then it's ready to roll out and cut. I like them very thick.

Bake at 375 for 8-10 minutes. I do closer to 8.

Easy Buttercream Frosting

1 cup (2 sticks) butter (room temperature)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 1b. 10X powdered sugar
1-3 teaspoons milk, half and half or cream

Using a mixer, cream softened butter and vanilla until smooth.
Add sugar gradually, allowing butter and sugar to cream together before adding more.
If you want your frosting a little creamier, add a teaspoon of milk at a time and beat on high until you get the right texture.

Artichoke Heart Quiche

2011-03-01T13:05:00.000-08:00

This is pretty much amazing. You won't be disappointed.

I'm adding it to our Christmas Morning breakfast.

It worked well with my French baby shower theme last summer too.

Cream Cheese Crust:

3 oz. cream cheese, chilled

1/2 c. butter, chilled
1 c. flour

Filling:

1/2 c. green onions and tops, chopped

2 TBS butter

1/2 c. diced ham

1 14-oz can artichoke hearts, drained and quartered

3 eggs

1 1/4 c. heavy cream

pinch nutmeg

1/8 tsp pepper

1/2 tsp salt

pinch cayenne pepper

1/2 c. grated Swiss or Cheddar cheese. (I put it in the mix not on the top)

(I also add some chopped up spinach)

Method:

Oven - 375 degrees.

Cut cream cheese and butter together with fork or pastry cutter, or processor.

Add flour, cut together and form a ball.

Roll out dough and fit into a 10-inch pie plate; flute edges.

In a medium-size skillet saute onions and ham in butter, then remove from skillet; set aside.

Beat eggs, cream and seasonings in a bowl. Stir in onions, ham, and artichokes and cheese.

Pour into the pie shell and sprinkle with cheese. (I put it on the last 15 min. of baking)

Bake for 35-40 minutes, until firm.

Essential Buttermilk Syrup

2011-03-01T12:18:00.000-08:00

Incase you need the most delicious syrup to cover your pancakes, here it is. You could really eat a rubber tire with this stuff it's so good

1/2 c butter

1 c sugar

1/2 c buttermilk (1/2 c milk + 1 t vinegar)

1 T Karo syrup

1 t baking soda

1 t vanilla

In a LARGE pot, combine butter, sugar, buttermilk, and karo syrup and brink to a boil for 2-3 mins. Add baking soda and vanilla. Mixture will fizz to TWICE the size or more, so use a good sized pot! Set it aside to thicken while stirring occasionally. POUR over waffles, pancakes and French Toast to make them oh. so. much. better.

Truckstop Buttermilk Pancakes

2011-03-01T12:11:00.001-08:00

Brandon grew up on Bisquick. I never had the stuff until we got married. Yuck! Over the course of our marriage I have tried MANY pancake recipes trying to ween Brandon off the yellow box.

This pancake recipe did the trick

2 c flour

1/4 c sugar

2 t baking pwd

1 t baking soda

1/2 t salt

2 c buttermilk (or 2 cups milk + 2 t vinegar)

4 T butter

2 whole eggs

1 t vanilla

1/4 c milk

Combine dry ingredients in large bowl.

Melt butter and seperate eggs. In a med bowl, whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Then mix in the butter, yolks, and vanilla with the whisk. Then stir in the buttermilk.

Stir the wet ingredients in the dry ingredients until just combined. Add milk as needed until batter reaches desired consistency.

Pour batter onto hot griddle. Flip when bubbles form on top.

Serves 6

Garlic Cheddar Chicken

2011-03-01T11:44:00.000-08:00

Garlic Cheddar Chicken:
1/2 cup softened butter
2-3 Tbsp minced Garlic
2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp seasoned salt
3/4 Cup Dry Breadcrumbs
1/2 Cup grated Cheddar Cheese
1/4 Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
1/2 tsp Black Pepper
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (I used the boneless skinless tenderloins)
1/2-2/3 Cup Cheddar Cheese

Preheat oven to 350. Use about 2 tbsp butter to spread all over the inside of a shallow baking dish. In a bowl, melt butter, then add minced garlic, garlic powder and seasoned salt then mix to combine. In a separate bowl, combine bread crumbs, 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese and black pepper. Dip chicken in butter mixture then dredge in bread crumb mixture, repeat with each piece of chicken. Place chicken in a single layer in the bottom of the baking dish. Bake for 25 to 50 minutes (depending on the size of your chicken pieces). Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top and cook for an additional 10 minutes.

*I served mine with polenta and asparagus but it would go well with rice or mashed potatoes.

zucchini casserole

2011-03-01T00:20:00.000-08:00

This is soo good! Everytime I make it people ask for the recipe.

6 C. Sliced Zucchini
1 Can crm chicken soup
1 1/2 C. Shredded Cheddar Cheese
1/2 C. butter
1 C. Sour Cream
8 oz. Stove Top
1 C. Carrots, grated
1 Medium Onion
1 C. Mushrooms (optional)

Saute Onions, but don't brown. Mix onions, sour cream, carrots, soup, and cheese. Melt butter and mix with stove top.

Layer Pan: Stuffing, mixture, zuke's, stuffing. Bake @350 for 45-60 min.

Easy BBQ Beans

2011-03-01T00:13:00.000-08:00

2 Large Cans Bush's Baked Beans
10 Strips precooked and cut up
2/3 Bottle BBQ Sauce (Hickory or brown sugar are best)
1C. Brown Sugar

Drain liquid from beans and remove bacon chunks. Combine ingredients in crockpot. Cook on low at least 3 hours...the longer the better!

Cranberry Chicken

2011-03-01T00:07:00.000-08:00

Easy and YUMMY!

1 16oz. can cranberry sauce
1 8oz. Bottle French Dresssing
1 Packet Lipton Onion Soup mix
6 Chicken breasts

Mix sauce, dressing, soup, pour over chicken. Cook in crockpot on low 4-6 hours. Serve with rice.

Parmesan Chicken

2011-03-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

1/2C. Crushed Ritz Crackers
1/3 C. Shredded parm. Cheese
1 Tbls. Parsley Flakes
1/4 tsp. Garlic Salt
1/8 tsp. Pepper
4-6 Chicken Breasts

Combine all ingredients but chicken. Melt 1/2-1 cube butter in cake pan. Roll chicken in butter then in crumbs. Put back in cake pan and bake @350 for 1 hour.

CoNtEsT

2011-02-24T15:44:00.000-08:00

I am going to do a little contest to increase activity in our blog. It will run like a raffle.

1 recipe=1 raffle ticket

It will run all through the month of March. The more times you post, the more chances you have of winning this cute bag full of fun stuff. :the fun stuff is not yet decided, but I promise it won't disappoint:

If you live out of state, I will be happy to mail it to you if you are the winner. If you are not yet invited to be an author, let me know in the comments and I will get you invited before March 1st.

New Background

2011-02-04T08:16:00.000-08:00

For those of you viewing from a reader, come on over and check out our new background. I am so in love with it, I wish it existed in a shirt.

Breakfast Cassorole

2011-02-04T07:42:00.000-08:00

We served these after Libbys blessing. They were a big hit. I had to make 7 of them. They were easy to throw together the night before and very affordable for such a large group. These would work great for Christmas morning.

1lb. Cooked Breakfast Meat-I am usually a ham fan but I liked sausage best in this case
1 Package of Stuffing
6 Eggs
1 Cup Milk
1 Cup Cheese
:extra options:
onion
green onion
bell pepper
green chili
olives
tomatoes
salsa
In a large bowl beat the eggs, then mix in the remaining ingredients.
Spray a 9X13 pan with pam
Pour casserole mixture into the pan
Bake at 350 for 1 hour or until the eggs are set up.

Caramel Brownies

2011-02-02T16:45:00.000-08:00

Easy Caramel Brownies

1 (18.25 ounce) package German chocolate cake mix with pudding
3/4 cup melted butter
1/3 cup evaporated milk
1 cup chopped pecans
13 ounces individually wrapped caramels, unwrapped
1/3 cup evaporated milk
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degreees. Spray one 9x13 inch pan with non-stick coating .
2. Combine the cake mix (just the powder), butter and 1/3 cup evaporated milk. Mix well and pour 2/3 of the batter into pan.
3. Press pecans into batter and bake for 8 to 10 minutes.
4. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the caramel and 1/3 cup evaporated milk. Stir until melted and smooth; pour over cooled cake mix.
5. Sprinkle chocolate chips on top of caramel and top with spoonfuls of remaining cake mix. Bake for additional l5 to l8 minutes; cool and cut.

*I omitted the pecans and it still turned out great! I also found these bags of caramels at Walmart and they melted really quickly.

Pureed Pears

2011-01-24T12:13:00.000-08:00

Has anyone ever made pureed pears? My kids eat that stuff like applesauce and I swear I'm keeping the gerber co. in business!

Better than sex cake

2011-01-15T10:16:00.000-08:00

I hope the title of this cake is not too inappropriate, but it sure does taste great!

-1 (18.25 ounce) package devil's food cake mix
-1/2 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
-6 ounces caramel ice cream topping
-3 (1.4 ounce) bars chocolate covered toffee, chopped
-1 (8 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed

Directions:

Bake cake according to package directions for a 9x13 inch pan; cool on wire rack for 5 minutes. Make slits across the top of the cake, making sure not to go through to the bottom.
In a saucepan over low heat, combine sweetened condensed milk and caramel topping, stirring until smooth and blended. Slowly pour the warm topping mixture over the top of the warm cake, letting it sink into the slits; then sprinkle the crushed chocolate toffee bars liberally across the entire cake while still warm. (Hint: I crush my candy bars into small chunks as opposed to crumbs - I like to have pieces I can chew on!)
Let cake cool completely, then top with whipped topping. Decorate the top of the cake with some more chocolate toffee bar chunks and swirls of caramel topping. Refrigerate and serve right from the pan!

Sour Cream Apple Pie

2011-01-08T15:51:00.000-08:00

I have always been a classic apple pie person, until Scott had me try this recipe. Oh my, to die for. This is a birthday, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any day I want it recipe in our house. Enjoy!

Filling:

2 c. grated apple ( granny smith)

1 c. sour cream

¾ white sugar

1 egg

2 T. flour

½ t.vanilla

Topping:

1 cube butter

1 cup flour

½ cup brown sugar

Beat together all filling ingredients except apples.

Stir in apples and pour into an unbaked pie crust.

Blend the topping ingredients: makes a crumbly mixture.

Sprinkle on top and bake for 15 minutes more at 400 degrees.

Then bake for 40 minutes at 350 degrees.

Honey Lime Enchiladas

2011-01-05T15:41:00.000-08:00

I have tried about 1000 different ways to make sweet pork recipes (coke, brown sugar, etc) and this is BY FAR my favorite and BY FAR the healthiest!

1 ½ lbs chicken or pork, cooked and shredded (I've tried both and prefer the pork)
1/3 c honey juice of 2 limes (or ¼ c)
1 Tbsp chili powder ½ tsp garlic powder
4oz can green chiles 20 oz green enchilada sauce
Equal parts mozzarella & cheddar cheeses
8-10 flour tortillas

Combined cooked and shredded meat with chiles, honey, lime juice, chili and garlic powder. Let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Grease 9x13 pan and pour a little enchilada sauce to coat bottom of pan. Fill tortillas with meat and a little cheese. Roll up and place in pan. Pour remaining sauce over top and sprinkle with more cheese. Bake uncovered at 350 for 30 minutes.

*note: You could totally use the same sweet pork in salads, burritos, etc.

Taste of Christmas

2010-12-06T09:45:00.000-08:00

When I think of Christmas, certain foods come to mind. My Moms candy has to be my favorite. Below is her fudge recipe that I look forward to eating myself sick with every year.

What does Christmas taste like to you??

Fudge

2010-11-29T07:02:00.000-08:00

4 Cups Sugar
1 Can Evaporated Milk
3 Large, 7 oz.Hershey Bars
2 Cubes Butter
Nuts-optional

~Butter a 9X13 pan.
~Break up chocolate bars in a large bowl. Add butter and set aside.
~In a sauce pan, add Sugar and milk. Bring to a rolling boil.
~Turn to med-high and stir constantly for exactly 10 minutes.
~Add to the bowl of chocolate and butter. Mix with an electirc mixer of some sort until all are smooth and melted.
~Add nuts at this point if you wish.
~Pour into a buttered 9X13 pan.
~Let set up in the fridge.

Wassail

2010-11-17T13:46:00.000-08:00

1 Gallon Apple Juice
1 Can of Frozen Orange Juice concentrate
4 Cups of Water
2/3 Cup Sugar
2 Cinnamon Sticks
12 Whole Cloves
10 Whole AllSpice
Put in a crock pot or on stove top and heat, stirring occasionally. I put a 1/4 of the recipe in a hot cocoa maker. That works good if you have one of those.

If you buy the spices at a regular store you will pay WAY too much. I found them in bulk for a great price at Winco. For example at the grocery store I found the a bottle of 10 cinnamon sticks for for $3.89. At Winco I got them for about $2.50lb. Worth the drive, I would say.

Pumpkin Pie

2010-11-05T17:06:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Pie

2 pie crusts
3 Cups pumpkin puree
6 large eggs
1 1/2 Cups + 2 Tbsp. packed light brown sugar
2 Tbsp. Corn Starch
1 tsp. salt
1 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 1/2 tsp. ground ginger
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
3 Cups evaporated milk
whipped cream for serving

-In a large bowl add pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cornstarch, salt, cinnamon, ginger, vanilla, nutmeg, eggs, and evaporated milk; whisk until combined.
-Preheat oven to 350 degrees and add the pumpkin mix to the 2 pie shells. Bake on rimmed baking sheets for 35-40 minutes. Bake until all but centers are set.
-Let cool completely on a wire rack and serve with whipped cream.

* Makes 2 pies. Recipe from Martha Stewart

Whipped Cream

2010-11-05T16:59:00.000-07:00

There's nothing better than homemade whipped cream!

Whipped Cream

1 Cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 Cup granulated sugar
1/2 Tbsp. Vanilla

-Beat on high in your mixer for about 10-15 minutes. Refrigerate the extra and serve in hot chocolate or with pie or just eat it as is!
*Be sure your bowl and whisk is very clean and preferably cold for best results.

Chicken Cacciatore

2010-11-02T17:16:00.000-07:00

This is a recipe I found from Pioneer Woman. It looked so yummy I had to try it and...it is yummy!Chicken Cacciatore

salt
pepper
1 Tbsp butter
2 Tbsp olive oil
flour for coating chicken
4 cuts of chicken skin-on
1 onion
1 bell pepper
3 cloves garlic
mushrooms
1 can tomatoes
3/4 C. cooking wine
1/4 tsp. ground thyme
1/4 tsp. turmeric
parmesan cheese
parsley

She gives you a step-by-step tutorial here. Enjoy!

Turkey Pumpkin Chili

2010-10-21T09:53:00.000-07:00

I had some leftover pumpkin puree and wanted a new recipe to use it up. I found this, and quite liked it. The kiddos- even baby- liked it, too! It's a little lacking in flavor, so I added a little extra chili powder, and I think that the garnish is a must have. Enjoy the nice October meal!

Besides adding a sweet nutty flavor to dishes, pumpkin is a ready source of vitamin A, which boosts the nutrition content of this offbeat chili. Garnish each portion with a dollop of sour cream and chopped cilantro.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 small yellow onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, cored, seeded and chopped
2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 pound ground white or dark meat turkey
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, with their liquid
1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin purée
1 cup water
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained

Method

Heat oil in a large pot over medium high heat. Add onion, bell pepper, jalapeños and garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until tender, about 5 minutes. Add turkey and cook until browned. Add tomatoes, pumpkin, water, chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium low and add beans. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes more. Ladle chili into bowls and serve.

Serves 6

Nutrition

Per serving (about 12oz/348g-wt.): 280 calories (110 from fat), 13g total fat, 2.5g saturated fat, 55mg cholesterol, 580mg sodium, 23g total carbohydrate (8g dietary fiber, 7g sugar), 20g protein

Recipe from wholefoods.com

Potato Pancakes with Avocado Mash and Eggs

2010-10-14T08:23:00.000-07:00

I really don't like breakfast foods, and so I usually skip breakfast and eat an early lunch. But when I found this idea in a magazine and it actually looked appealing, I decided to give it a try. It was fast and easy and didn't make a big mess -- all requirements I have for early morning meals. AND it's yummy!

Frozen hashbrowns
Onion powder
Avocado
Egg
Salt and pepper
Olive oil

Season hashbrowns with salt, pepper, and onion powder. Heat a tbsp or so of olive oil over medium heat. Add hashbrowns and cover pan with foil. Cook a few minutes on each side until brown. Remove hashbrowns from plate. In same pan (adding more olive oil if needed) fry an egg as desired. Top hashbrowns with mashed avocado (seasoned with salt) and place egg on top. Serve!

This is my variation of the recipe. If you want to see the original from the magazine, click here. If you don't like fried eggs, I'm sure it would be good with scrambled or any other type of egg as well.

Meat 'n' Cheese Stomboli

2010-09-22T13:40:00.000-07:00

My sister taught me how to make this and it has become a family favorite!

I buy Rhodes frozen white bread. It comes in a pack of 3. I let the loaf thaw about 3-4 hours.

*I cook mine on the lowest oven rack to make sure the dough at the bottom gets cooked all the way through, that depends on your oven though!

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

2010-08-27T10:38:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

1 box Spice Cake Mix (dry mix only)

1 small can of Pumpkin

Chocolate Chips

Mix ingredients and bake!

Easy.

Market Street Grill Clam Chowder

2010-08-26T16:51:00.000-07:00

If you've ever been to Market Street Grill, you know their clam chowder is to die for. But did you know they post almost all their recipes on their website? I was so excited to find this, and even more excited when it tasted as good as I remembered.

Ingredients:
1 cup potatoes, diced ½ inch
1 cup celery, diced ½ inch
1 cup onion, diced ½ inch
1 cup green pepper, diced ½ inch
1 cup leeks, diced ½ inch
¾ cup chopped clams (canned or fresh)
¾ tablespoon coarse ground black pepper
1 ½ tablespoon salt
¾ tablespoon whole thyme
6 bay leaves
1 teaspoon Tabasco
¾ cup sherry wine (optional)
2 cups water
¾ cup clam juice (drained from canned clams or purchased separately in can)
¾ cup butter, melted
1 cup flour
2 quarts half-and-half

Method:
Combine melted butter and flour in oven-proof container and bake at 325 degrees for 30 minutes. In large saucepan, combine remaining ingredients except half-and-half. Simmer until potatoes are thoroughly cooked. Stir butter-flour mixture into chowder and stir until thick. Mixture will be slightly less thick than cookie dough. Remove chowder from heat. Stir in half-and-half until blended. Heat to serving temperature, stirring occasionally.

Serve immediately. Makes 12 servings.

Here are my variations: I leave out the leeks, and only use about half the salt and pepper (you can always add more later). I usually make a half batch, but the servings are pretty true so you can decide for yourself how much to make.

Make-your-own Spray and Wash

2010-08-11T19:28:00.000-07:00

1 Jug ammonia

1 bottle non-scented, die free dish soap

Water

In a spray bottle, combine equal parts ammonia, water, and dish soap.

*Makes multiple bottles

The lady I got this from says if it doesn't get out a stain, put some oxy-clean on first, then this spray. She swears it gets out anything. I love that it get's out grease! Plus you can't beat the price!