What's For Dinner...Ladies?

Red Onion Dressing/ Salad

2010-05-18T18:49:00.001-07:00

This is one of my favorites!

Red Onion Dressing:
½ cup sugar
½ tsp dried mustard
½ tsp salt
¼ cup cider or white vinegar
1 cup red onion
½ cup vegetable oil
Blend in blender
Add 1 TBSP poppy seeds then chill

Salad:
1 -60z package of cranberries
1 -bag/bunch of romaine lettuce
--- equal amount of fresh spinach
2 -gala apples- sliced
4 -green onions- green part- diced
1 cup -toasted almond slivers (350 degrees for 15 minutes shake after 5 minutes)

Mexican Rice

2010-02-27T13:50:00.000-08:00

3 Tbsp. veg oil
1 cup long grain rice
1 tsp. garlic salt
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup tomato sauce
2 cups chicken broth

Heat oil in saucepan over medium heat. Add rice, stirring constantly until puffed and golden. While rice is cooking, sprinkle with salt and cumin.

Stir in onions and cook until tender. Stir in tomato sauce and chicken broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes.

Artichoke Dip

2010-02-08T18:22:00.000-08:00

This is from my sister's mother in law, Suzanne Curtis, and I LOVE it!

8 oz cream cheese
4 oz can chopped artichokes (canned in water)
3/4 c. Mayo
1 1/4 c. Parmesan
1 TBSP chopped garlic
1 package frozen spinach (chopped)

Mix together and chill serve with crackers, chips, pita bread, etc.

Frog Eye Salad

2010-02-08T16:50:00.000-08:00

This is the MOST delicious fruit salad! Dave commented tonight (in classic Dave fashion) that there should be National Frog Eye competitions, fairs, a show called "Ace of Frog Eye" (he would change his name to Duff) and we should have this delicious dish with EVERY meal.

So with that said, Here you go!

FROG EYE SALAD ala the Miners

1/2 c. Sugar
1 TBSP Flour
1/4 tsp salt
1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, undrained - I usually put two cans in
1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
1 egg, beaten
2 tsp lemon juice
1 1/3 c. (8oz) Acini de Pepe pasta, uncooked
2 cans (11oz each) mandarin oranges, drained
2 cups Cool Whip, thawed
3 c. miniature Marshmallows

In medium saucepan, stir together sugar, flour, and salt. Drain pineapple, reserving juice to equal 1 cup. With whisk, gradually stir juice and egg into sugar mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until mixture comes to a boil. Stir in lemon juice. Cool mixture to room temperature. Meanwhile cook pasta according to package direction; drain. Rinse with cold water to cool quickly; drain well. In large bowl, stir together pineapple juice mixture and pasta. Cover; refrigerate several hours oer overnight. Add crushed pineapple and chinks, oranges, Cool Whip, and Marshmallows; mix gently and thoroughly. Cover; refrigerate until cold.

12 servings (about 1 cup each)

Orange Carrots

2010-01-17T20:27:00.000-08:00

I cannot remember where we found this recipe but we made it for a "little Christmas Eve" dinner and they were yummy... and we only had one serving of left overs!

INGREDIENTS
3 tsp of Orange rind
1.5 cups of slivered almonds
4 TSBP Butter
5 T Brown Sugar
6 tsp Cornstarch
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 t. cinnamon
1/2 t. nutmeg
3 cups Orange Juice
3 lbs of carrots, baby or stripped (we used stripped, which was a lot of work)

Directions:
1) Saute almonds in butter for 5 minutes, remove from pan
2) Combine Brown Sugar, Cornstarch, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg in large frying pan, add juice and rind and cook stirring constantly until slightly thicker and clear. Add Almonds
3 ) Serve over hot cooked carrots.

I cannot remember how many servings it made because we tripled it for our crowd. It is tasty and easy to reheat.

Easy Chicken Wrapped Bacon

2010-01-10T17:11:00.000-08:00

I only had chicken on hand for dinner tonight and went through a couple of potential recipes, then my mouth started watering as I thought of bacon wrapped chicken. I googled a recipe and found the following. It was an easy and quick recipe.

Worcestershire sauce
Chicken
Peppered bacon (I just had regular)
Salt and Pepper (which I decided not to use and see how it turned out- didn't need it)

Cover Chicken in Worcestershire then wrap the chicken with bacon. Put toothpicks in to hold bacon in place. Grill.

I didn't want to go grill outside so I put it in the oven and baked it @ 350 for 40 minutes, then Broiled it to make the bacon crispy. The insides were moist the outsides were dry. Any advice about grilling chicken in the oven?

Turkey Bone and Dumpling soup

2009-11-24T18:37:00.001-08:00

My Favorite Thanksgiving tradition, in fact I almost look forward to this meal more than Thanksgiving!

Put Turkey Bones in large pot ( You can take off some of the skin, but other than that you can just throw the whole thing in!). Add some salt and pepper and some leftover dressing for flavoring. Fully cover Turkey in water and boil for several hours until meat is falling off bones. (We did it for over 6 hours, but I bet you can do it in 3-4 hours.)

Once the meat is falling off the bones, pull out big bones with tongs and then strain the rest of the meat keeping the broth for the soup (keep all and take out 1/4 cup-1/2 cup for dumplings). Once the meat is a little cooled sort through it getting all the bones out as much as possible. We sifted through it 3 times and still had some when we ate it, so just be a careful.

1. Put broth back in pot.

2. Make Dumplings (see recipe below) and drop them in pot in small balls (they don't have to be round, just drop in).
3. Cut up 2 cups of carrots and 2 cups of potatoes put into broth and boil.

4. While boiling put in dumplings it takes 10 minutes for them to set up.
5. Once dumplings are going, add 1 cup of chopped celery and any left over peas/corn from Thanksgiving dinner. ( I just added a can of corn. It kinda gets lost in the soup so you could add more if making it for a large group)

6. Put in a package or two of Top Ramen noddles (not the flavoring)

7. You may need to add a can of chicken broth for more liquid

8. Add Turkey meat back in and heat through

9. ENJOY!!

Recipe for Dumplings (our family likes to double this and we have a LOT of dumplings)

1 egg beaten
3 TBSP sugar
1/4 cup half and half cream
1/4 cup soup stalk
1/4 tsp baking powder
dash of salt
Mix above ingredients then add flour a little at a time, mix with fork, keep adding until your fingers don't stick to dough. (When doubling it I probably added 3-4 cups of flour when all was said and done).

This recipe FILLED my largest pot it could serve 12-15 people! I plan to freeze some of the leftovers for later. ( I haven't tried it before, but I am pretty sure it will work).

Mr. Turkey and the stuff that goes inside

2009-11-24T18:04:00.000-08:00

I have notes jotted down from last Thanksgiving from many phone calls to my mom to be able to make our first Turkey and stuffing. Here are my mom's recipes ( I hope I can piece it all together)

STUFFING (The YUMMIEST recipe ever!)

4-5 large carrots -peel and grind
4-5 stalks of celery -chop fine
2-3 medium size onions (depending on your preference)- grind

1/2 cube butter (about 4 TBSP)

Add altogether in saucepan and cook until soft (about 10 minutes)

Add stuffing and about 1/2 cube of butter ( don't you love how my mom cooks- just add a little of this a little of that)

You can do this the night before to help make the day a little easier.

TURKEY

Wash the whole turkey inside and out (pull out those yucky gizzards)
Salt inside and out of the Turkey including the legs

Stuff from both ends and stuff as full as you can

Use skewers to close and pulls skin of both sides

Put in pan -coat with butter

Put foil over each leg and wing to prevent from burning

Put 1 big piece of foil over the whole turkey
(It will brown well with foil)

1/2 way through cooking - baste

If not brown towards the end take off big foil

Cook Turkey for 20 minutes per pound @ 325 degrees

Hot Sausage Dip

2009-11-01T16:21:00.000-08:00

Since we're right in the middle of football season I thought I'd share one of my favorite chip dips. It's delicious.

1 Jimmy Dean hot sausage
1 pkg cream cheese
16 oz. sour cream
1 large tomato
1 medium green pepper
1/2 of a large onion
1 can green chilies

Brown sausage and chop into small pieces. Chop tomatos, green peppers, onion and green chilies. Mix all is a crockpot on low until warm and cream chesse is melted. Serve warm with tortilla chips.

Fruity-Nutty Oatmeal

2009-09-21T22:36:00.000-07:00

I made this yummy oatmeal this past weekend for breakfast. It is delicious and really fills you up. I omitted the raisins simply because I don't like them. I also used quick oats, chopped almonds instead of walnuts, and chose the Pear over the apple. The recipe is from http://www.prevention.com/. It is the perfect Autumn breakfast!

Fruity-Nutty Oatmeal

1 cup water
2 1/2 cups fat-free milk, divided
1 1/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
1 large pear or medium Granny Smith apple, cored and cut into 1/4" pieces
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup dark or golden raisins
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
2 tsp brown sugar

Bring water and 1 1/2 cups of the milk to a boil in large, heavy saucepan over high heat. Stir in oats. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 3 minutes, stirring often, until oats start to soften.

Stir in pear. Cover and simmer about 3 minutes more or until it is tender but still a bit crsip. Stir in cranberries and raisins. Remove from heat, cover and let stand 1 minute to soften.

Divide evenly among 4 warm bowls. Sprinkle each with 2 Tbsp. walnuts and 1/2 tsp brown sugar. Top each bowl with 1/4 cup of the remaining milk.

Makes 4 servings.

Raspberry Velvet Melange

2009-08-05T23:22:00.000-07:00

(Rasp. Chocolate Ice Cream)

I found this recipe in BHG and loved the picture so I tore it out. It wasn't until I read through the directions that I realized how EASY and CHEAP it is (especially for homemade ice cream). We made it up at Dave's cabin and it was delicious!

Ingredients
1 - 6oz pkg or Rasp.-flavored gelatin
2- cups boiling water
1/2 cup cold water
1/2 cup chocolate syrup
3/4 cup whipping cream
1/2 cup chocolate syrup
Fresh Raspberries (optional-but yummy!)

Preparation:
In a large bowl combine gelatin and boiling water. Stir until gelatin is dissolved. Stir in the cold water, 1/2 cup choc syrup, and whipping cream. Stir well to combine. Cover and child about 1 hour or until cool but not set. Pour into a 1 - 2 quart electric ice cream maker;freeze gelatin mixture according to manufacturer's instructions. Ripen (freeze/harden) if desired.

2. Top each serving with remaining 1/2 cup chocolate syrup, and serve with raspberries.

Makes 8 servings

Rolo Cookies

2009-07-18T21:15:00.001-07:00

Okay I know I am posting a lot of randoms, I am just trying to get rid of all my random little pieces of papers. This one was given to me from a friend (though I cannot remember who) and I know that they are YUMMY!

1 package fudge cake mix
1 package devils food cake mix
3/4 cup shortening (do not use oil)
4 eggs
Rolo candies (large bags, unwrapped)

Combine first four ingredients and mix until smooth dough forms. Mold until tablespoon of the dough around a piece of candy (unwrapped) and place two inches apart on parchment paper covered cookie sheet.

Bake @ 350 degrees for 10 minutes;remove from pan and cool on rack.

Makes 5 to 6 dozen cookies.

Strawberry Cream Freeze: Three Delicious Way

2009-07-18T20:34:00.001-07:00

This is an ad that looked delicious! It said for more recipes go to dessert.com.

Ingredients:
1 pkg. (8 oz) Cream Cheese, softened
1 Cup Milk
1 pkg (3.4 oz) Vanilla Flavor Instant Pudding
1 1/2 cups thawed Whipped Topping
20 Vanilla Wafers, corsely broken
1 cup Sliced Fresh Strawberries
1/2 Cup Strawberry Ice Cream Topping

Make the Filling
Beat Cream Cheese in a large bowl with mixer until creamy. Gradually beat in milk. Add dry pudding mis;beat for 2 minutes. Stir in whipped topping, wafers and berries. Swirl in ice cream topping.

8 inch Pie: Spoon filling into 6 oz oreo pie crust ( or I would try graham cracker). Freeze until firm. Serves 8.

Waffle Bowls: Freeze filling 6 hours or until firm. Scoop into 8 waffle bowls.

Mini Pies: Sppon Filling into 12 muffin liners. Top with more strawberries for prettier look. Freeze for 4 hours and remove fillings.

(about 25mins)

Chocolate Bonbon Pops

2009-07-10T21:20:00.000-07:00

I found this recipe in my BHG magazine and want to try it. I am posting it here so I don't have to hold on to this torn out page. If you try it let me know how it goes!

"We used Oreos to get the intense chocolate flavor of these no- bake bonbons. Find lollipop sticks in the bakin section of large supermarket and baking supply stores."

Prep time: 30 mins Freeze: 30 minutes Chill: 1 Hour
18 chocolate sandwich cookies with cream filling.
1 1/2 cups pecans, toasted ( I might leave these out)
2 TBSP Orange liqueur or orange juice
1 TBSP corn syrup
2 TBSP unsweetened Cocoa powder
20 Lollipop sticks
1 - 12 oz pkg milk or semisweet chocolate chips
1 TBSP shortening

1. in a large food processor bowl combine cookies and 3/4 cup of nuts; pulse until cookies are crushed. Add Orange juice, corn syrup, and cocoa powder process until combined. Add remaining nuts pulse until coarsely chopped.

2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Shape cookie mixture in 1 inch balls. Place on baking sheet, insert a lollipop stick,and freeze for 30 minutes

3. In a small saucepan combine chocolate chips and shortening. Cook and stir over medium- low heat. Dip pop in chocolate. Return to baking sheet loosely cover and refrigerate 1 hour or until chocolate is set If using liqueur , flavor will mellow after a day or two. Makes 20 pops!
( I left this last sentence in for everyone (: )

Can keep up to a week in a covered container in the refrigerator.

Melanie's carribean chicken salad

2009-06-30T21:44:00.000-07:00

Have you ever tried the carribean chicken salad at Rumbi Grill? One of my favorites. I was craving it today so I thought I'd try my hand at something close to it. I skipped the rice and added a few different ingredients. It was sooooo good. I think I could have eaten the whole bowl. Really. I could have.

About 3 bunches of romaine lettuce, rinsed and chopped
3 cooked chicken breasts, cooled and diced
1 medium red onion, diced
1 can sweet corn, drained
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained well
1 large can pineapple tidbits, drained
2 small cans or 1 large can mandarin oranges, drained
3/4 cup feta cheese crumbles
2 handfuls of tortilla chips, crushed
Ken's honey mustard dressing

Mix all together in a large bowl and serve with honey mustard dressing.

Turkey Burgers with Mustard Sauce

2009-06-30T21:33:00.000-07:00

Oh turkey burgers! I love them! I think I've already posted another one of my favorite turkey burger recipes but this one is fabulous too. You really should try them both. Recipe comes from BHG.

4 kaiser rolls or hamburger buns (I use toasted hamburger buns)
1 lb. ground raw turkey
1 egg, lightly beaten
3 Tbsp. honey mustard
1/4 tsp each salt and black pepper
1 Tbsp. olive or cooking oil
1/3 cup light may
1 medium tomato
1 medium avocado, pitted, peeled and sliced
1 cup bread crumbs

In large bowl combine turkey, egg, bread crumbs, 1 Tbsp. of honey mustard, and the salt and pepper. Shape turkey mixture into four patties.

In an extra-large nonstick skillet cook turkey patties in hot oil over medium heat for 12 minutes, turning once, or until no longer pink.

For mustard sauce, in small bowl combine mayo and remaining 2 Tbsp. honey mustard. Layer buns, burgers, tomato, avocado, sauce.

*I usually make about 6 burgers out of this recipe. Last night I just made the turkey burgers and ate them without buns. I skipped the rest of this recipe and topped the burgers with the coleslaw recipe from this recipe. So delicious and you skip out on those all those bun calories.

Carmelitas

2009-06-29T20:14:00.000-07:00

This is the YUMMIEST treat EVER! My mother in law makes these quite a bit. If you are a carmel lover like myself you will not be able to stop.

Crust:
1 C oatmeal
1 C flour
3/4 C Brown Sugar
1/2 t Baking Soda
1/4 t Salt
3/4 C Melted Butter

Mix above all together. Put half of ingredients in pan. Cook at 350 for 10 minutes.

Combine:
1 C Chocolate Chips
1/2 C Pecans (chopped)
Mix Together 3/4 C Caramel Ice-Cream Topping & 3 T Flour
Then pour on top.

Put rest of crumbs on top. Bake 15-20 minutes. Chill and cut into bars.
ENJOY!

Banana Bread Recipe | Simply Recipes

2009-06-15T12:49:00.000-07:00

After getting a message that I posted this illegally I have tried to change it a little bit. opps!

I am posting this in a different way. I just googled a recipe, found this, and now I've highlighted the whole things and it gave me the option of positng to a blog, so here we go! (The batter is yummy but the bread is still in the oven, hopefully it is good, I will comment later!)

Banana Bread Recipe Simply Recipes:

Ingredients
3 or 4 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 C melted butter
1 C sugar (can reduce to 3/4 cup)
1 egg, beaten
1 tsp anilla
1 tsp baking soda
Pinch of salt
1 1/2 Cups of flour

How to:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, use a wooden spoon to mix butter into the mashed bananas. Mix in the sugar, egg, and vanilla. Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and mix in. Add the flour last and mix. Pour mixture into a buttered 4x8 inch loaf pan. Bake for 1 hour. Cool on a rack. Remove from pan and enjoy!

Beef Teriyaki (or chicken, pork, or shrimp)

2009-05-26T21:30:00.000-07:00

Beef Teriyaki
1/3 cup Soy Sauce
1/2 cup Water
2 TBSP Brown Sugar
1 tsp Ground Ginger
1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
1 lb Top Sirloin, cut in 1' cubes

Marinate 1-2 hours in fridge. Drain Beef and discard marinade. Thread Beef on skewers and cook on grill- close grill for 4 minutes. Turn skewers and cook for 3- 6 minutes or until done.

Hint: Soak Wooden skewers in water to prevent burning

Can Substitute chicken, pork, and shrimp

Apple Crisp Parfait

2009-05-26T21:24:00.000-07:00

Yet another one I haven't tried, but want to put somewhere where I'll remember it.

APPLE CRISP PARFAIT

3 cups sliced and peeled apples (about 3 medium apples)
1/2 cup old fashioned cooking oats
3 TBSP brown sugar
2 TBSP water
1 tsp cinnamon

Mix all ingredients above together
Cook
*Microwave oven: cover with wax paper microwave on high for 5 to 7 minutes, rotating 1/4 turn halfway through.
*Conv. Oven: Bake @ 350 degrees for 25 minutes. Serve Hot or chilled with Topping.

Topping
4 oz nonfat vanilla yogurt
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/8 tsp nutmeg
3/4 cup light whipped topping
Mix together

Peach Popsicles

2009-05-26T21:20:00.000-07:00

I haven't tried this,but it looks interesting. I have had it on a random scrap of paper and am ready to throw it away so I thought I would put it here.

Peach Popsicles
1 can (16oz) sliced peaches, packed in juice, not drained
1 TBSP Sugar

Blend in blender until smooth. Pour into Popsicle containers. Freeze 3-5 hours or until firm.

The Yummiest Crepes and Filling

2009-05-02T07:00:00.000-07:00

I found this recipe in a Better Homes and Gardens Supplemental recipe pamphlet and we love making it! The almond filling is the best!

Here is what it says:

"A French import, crepes realized great popularity in the U.S. during the 1970s and epitomize eleganct in desserts. We featured this fabulous recipe in our September 1976 issue. "

1/3 cup sugar

3 TBSP flour

1 cup milk

1 egg

1 egg yolk

1 TBSP butter

1 tsp vanilla

1/4 tsp almond extract (it is worth buying if you don't have it)

1/4 cup finely chopped almonds, toasted (you don't need these, but it makes it that much better)

1 recipe Crepes

1/4 cup sliced almonds, toaster

sifted powdered sugar

mixed fresh berries (optional but so yummy with it,actually any fruit would be good.)

1. For Filling, in a small saucepan combine the sugar and flour. Add Milk; cook and stir until thickened and bubbly. Cook and stir for 1 to 2 minutes more. Using a fork, beat whole egg and the egg yolk together slightly. Gradually stir half of the hot moisture into the beaten eggs. Return all of the mixture to the saucepan. Cook and stir over low hear for 2 minutes (so not boil). Remove from heat/ stir in the butter, vanilla, and almond extract. Stir in almonds.

2. You can fill however you like this is the instructions from the recipe if you want to make them elegant looking: To assemble, spread about 1 TSBP of the filling onto half of one of the Crepes; fold other half over filling. Fold in half again to form a triangle. Repeat with remaining filling and crepes. serve immediately/ Sprinkle with sliced almonds and powered sugar and serve with fruit. Makes 10 servings.

CREPES: In a large bowl combine 2 beaten eggs. 1 1/2 cups milk, 1 cup flour, 2 TBSP sugar, 1 TBSP cooking oil, and 1/2 tsp vanilla. Beat with a rotary beater until well mixed. Lightly grease a 6 inch skillet with shortening (Pam works just fine). Heat skillet over medium heat;remove from heat. Spoon 2 TBSP of the batter into skillet; lift and tilt skillet to spread batter evenly. Return skillet to heat; brown crepe on one side only. (Or cook on crepe maker). Invert skillet over paper towels remove crepe from skillet. Repeat with all batter, occasionally greaseing pan.
Makes 20 crepes

BBQ Chicken Burgers with Slaw

2009-04-30T22:34:00.000-07:00

Oh boy, get ready to eat one awesome burger! These are soooo yummy. The recipe is from Rachel Ray. I substituted ground turkey for ground chicken and didn't work very well. The burgers didn't hold up at all and I ended up having to turn them into a sloppy joe consistancy. But they still tasted great. If you make these make sure you use chicken or ground beef unless you want sloppy joe type burgers! :) Oh, and I only used about a tsp. of butter, omitted the hot sauce and toasted the buns.

1 Tbsp. butter, cut into pieces
1 small red onion, 1/2 finely chopped, 1/2 thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 Tbsp. tomato paste
1 tsp. sugar
1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 Tbsp. hot sauce
1 1/4 lb. ground chicken
1 Tbsp. grill seasoning (recommended: McCormick brand)
3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
2 Tbsp. honey
1 lemon, juiced
3 rounded Tbsp. sweet pickle relish
2 cups shredded cabbage mix
salt and pepper
4 Keiser rolls or big hamburger buns

In a small skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add chopped onions and garlic and sweat them for 5 minutes to soften and sweeten. Sprinkle in sugar and remove from heat. Cool in a bowl, 5 minutes. Add tomato paste, Worcestershire, hot sauce to bowl and combine. Add chicken to the bowl then grill seasoning and combine the burgers well to evenly distribute the flavors and form 4 patties.

Heat 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties 6 minutes on each side.

Combine the honey, lemon juice, and remaining olive oil in a bowl. Add relish, cabbage mix and sliced onions and season with salt and pepper. Toss the slaw to coat.

Serve burgers on bun bottoms topped with slaw and bun tops.

Perfect Low Fat Potato Salad

2009-04-30T22:26:00.000-07:00

Really yummy potato salad. I only used half of the mayo it called for and it still tasted great. 180 calories and 7.8 grams of fat (1.2 g sat fat) per 1 cup serving.

2 lbs. large red or russet potatoes
1/4 cup seasoned red wine vinegar or seasoned rice wine vinegar
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
6 hard boiled egg whites and 2 hard boiled egg yolks, chopped
1/3 cup chopped red onion
3/4 cup celery
4 large sweet pickles, chopped
1/4 cup regular mayonnaise
1/4 cup low fat mayonnaise
2 tsp. Dijon mustard

Peel potatoes and place them in a large stockpot of water. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium and simmer potatoes until tender (about 30 minutes...do not cover with pot lid). Drain and cool potatoes slightly then chop them into 3/4" cubes. Transfer them to a large bowl and gently toss together with vinegar, salt and pepper. Cover bowl and refrigerate until completely cool.

Mix mayonnaise and mustard together in a small bowl and set aside.

When potatoes are cool, toss together with all remaining ingredients, including mayo and mustard mixture. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Cheesy Baked Cauliflower

2009-04-30T22:23:00.001-07:00

This recipe is from allrecipes.com. It's a great and tasty side dish.

1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
salt and pepper to taste
2 medium tomatoes, sliced
olive oil
about 5 oz. of Swiss cheese, shredded

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Place cauliflower in a microwave-safe baking dish with just enough water to cover bottom of dish. Cook in the microwave on high for 5 minutes, or until slightly tender. Drain, and season with salt and pepper. Arrange tomato slices around the cauliflower. Drizzle with olive oil and top with cheese. Bake for 40 minutes until cheese is bubbly.

Spice-Rubbed Salmon with Cucumber Relish

2009-04-22T21:26:00.000-07:00

{Spice-Rubbed Salmon with Cucumber Relish} - From the Cooking Light Cookbook 2006

1 Tbsp. brown sugar
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. paprika
1/4 tsp. salt (for fish)
1/4 tsp. dried thyme
4 (6 oz.) salmon fillets
Cooking spray
2 cups chopped cucumber
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped onion
2 Tbsp. chopped fresh mint
1 Tbsp. capers
1 Tbsp. cider vinegar
1/4 tsp. salt (for relish)

Preheat broiler. Combine first 8 ingredients in a small bowl then rub evenly over fish. Place fish in a baking dish coated with cooking spray. Broil 8 minutes or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork. Combine 1/4 tsp. salt, cucumber, red bell pepper, onion, mint, capers and vinegar; serve with fish. Makes 4 servings.

*(Note: I didn't use capers and I substituted cilantro for mint simply because I didn't have any mint leaves. I served with roasted asparagus and boiled artichokes.....it was a fabulous dish.)

Sloppy Joes

2009-04-21T21:44:00.001-07:00

"Sloppy Joe, slop, sloppy Joe...." How can you not think of Chris Farley singing this song when you make sloppy Joe's? Haha This recipe is great. And who doesn't love sloppy joes? I got it off of allrecipes.com

1 lb. lean ground beef
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup chopped green pepper
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. yellow mustard
3/4 cup ketchup
3 tsp. brown sugar
salt to taste
ground black pepper to taste

Brown beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain fat and then add onion and green pepper. Cook for a couple of minutes and then stir in garlic powder, mustard, ketchup and brown sugar. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Curried Turkey Salad with Apples, Cranberries, and Walnuts

2009-04-13T17:30:00.001-07:00

Another recipe from my R.S. dinner

Curried Turkey Salad with Apples, Cranberries, and Walnuts

(i substituted the turkey with either potatoes or chicken)
4 cups cooked and chopped turkey
1/2 cup diced apple (pref. granny smith)
1/3 cup chopped sweetened dried cranberries
1/3 cup chopped toasted walnuts

*Curry Dressing (recipe below)In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and stir well. Serve on yourfavorite bread as a sandwich or on a bed of greens as a salad. Servesfour to six.

Dressing:1/2 cup thick yogurt
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons curry powder**
1 tablespoon honeygenerous pinch of saltfresh ground black pepper
Whisk all ingredients until well combined.Recipe Notes: *To toast walnuts, spread a handful of walnuts on abaking sheet. Toast in a preheated 350 degree oven for about fiveminutes or until they are fragrant. Don’t leave them in too long!Allow to cool slightly before chopping and adding to salad.

**If you prefer less spice in your salad, start with one tablespoon of currypowder then taste dressing and add more if desired. I used a full twotablespoons. For the turkey, I used a roasted half turkey breast fromthe deli section of the grocery store, but this would be perfect ifyou have lots of turkey left over from the holidays!

SaladTOSSED SALAD WITH POPPY SEED DRESSINGRomaine lettuceIceberg lettuceParsley sprigsCelery, choppedGreen onions, choppedMandarin orangesWalnutsDRESSING:3/ 4 c. sugar1 tsp. dry mustard1 tsp. salt1/3 c. wine vinegar1 c. salad oil1 tsp. poppy seedTear lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Toss ingredients and chill. Pourdressing over tossed salad just before serving.Dressing: Combine sugar, mustard, salt and vinegar. Add oil slowly,beating constantly with electric or rotary beater. Stir in poppy seedslast.

Asian Pasta Salad

2009-04-13T17:25:00.000-07:00

This is a recipe from a R.S. dinner we had. It was YUMMY!

Asian Pasta Salad(adapted from Simply Classic: Junior League of Seattle)

Salad:1/2 lb. spaghetti1 cup snow peas,
slivered1/2 cup celery,
sliced1/4 cup green onion,
chopped1/4 cup cilantro,
chopped1/2 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped

*original recipe includes 1/2 lb. shrimp, cooked

Dressing:1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp roasted sesame seeds
2 tbsp fresh ginger,
minced1 medium clove garlic,
minced1 tsp orange zest,
freshly grated1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1/4 cup sesame oil
1/4 cup peanut oil
serves 4

1. In medium bowl combine dressing ingredients except sesame andpeanut oils. Add oils in a slow, steady stream, whisking constantlyuntil well-blended and slightly thickened.

2. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse incold water. Drain again. Transfer to large serving dish or bowl.Add rest of salad ingredients.

3. Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss well. Serve at roomtemperature.

Chicken and Green Beans in a Peanut Sauce

2009-04-05T20:24:00.000-07:00

I have tried several peanut sauces and have finally mixed several recipes to make my own. Let me know if you like it.

2 chicken breasts
1 lb green beans
rice
chopped green onions

I cooked two chicken breast in peanut sauce (see below) for 1 hour at 350 degrees. Trimmed and cut the green beans and cooked the rice.

Peanut Sauce
In a sauce pan combine:

1 1/4 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup peanut butter (I used creamy)
2 tbsp honey
1/2 tsp chile powder
1 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp lemon juice (fresh or bottled)

With about 15 minutes remaining to bake add the green beans to the chicken and peanut sauce. I cut up the chicken and serve over rice with green onion.

Barefoot Contessa's Parmesan Chicken

2009-03-30T20:54:00.000-07:00

I confess. I am a food network junkie. And Ina Garten (from the Barefoot Contessa) is one of my faves. Pretty much everything she makes is fabulous. This recipe was so delicious! The egg and flour coating before the breadcrumbs made all the difference. I didn't have any baby greens on hand so I left out that part but I did spritz the chicken with fresh lemon juice after it had been cooked and it tasted amazing! I also left out the butter and cooked each chicken breast for about 8 minutes on each side. And of course, I forgot to take a picture! I promise to be better about that.

6 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
2 extra-large eggs
1 1/4 cups seasoned dry bread crumbs
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
Unsalted butter (I left this out)
Good olive oil
Salad greens for 6, washed and spun dry
Lemon Vinaigrette (recipe below)

Pound chicken breasts until they are 1/4 inch thick. You can use either a meat mallet or rolling pin. Combine the flour, salt, and pepper on a dinner plate. On a second plate, beat the eggs with 1 Tbsp. of water. On a third plate, combine the bread crumbs and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Coat chicken breasts on both sides with the flour mixture, then dip both sides into egg mixture and dredge both sides in bread crumb mixture, pressing lightly.

Heat 1 Tbsp. of butter and 1 Tbsp. of olive oil in a large saute pan and cook 2-3 minutes on each side, until cooked through. Add more butter and olive oil and cook the rest of the chicken breasts. Toss the salad greens with Lemon Vinaigrette. Place a mound of salad on each hot chicken breast. Serve with extra grated Parmesan.

Lemon Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (2 lemons), 1/2 cup good olive oil, 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, and 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper.

Berry smoothie

2009-03-17T15:19:00.000-07:00

I was in the kitchen this afternoon looking for something to eat when I noticed this recipe sitting on Michele's counter. So I decided to whip it up. I'm sipping it as I type this and it is yummy!

3/4 cup skim milk
1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
1/4 cup orange juice
1/4 cup frozen fruit (I used the frozen berries from Costco)
1 frozen banana (I don't like bananas so I just added more berries)

Mix in your magic bullet or blender.

Yum!

Salmon with Basil Pesto

2009-03-08T18:41:00.000-07:00

I found this recipe in better homes and gardens. I am always looking for new ways of cooking Salmon and liked it. It definitely needed the pesto for full flavor.

4 - 5 oz fresh or frozen salmon fillets ( I used 1/2 of Costco salmon which I think was about 20 oz
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 tsp kosher or sea salt or 1/8 tsp of salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1/4 cup prepared basil pesto ( I only used 1/2 of the container and hope to find a good recipe to use the other half!) I will try to post what I find.

1. Thaw salmon, if frozen. Place salmon fillets on greased unheated rack of broiler pan. Measure thickness of salmon. Brush salmon with 1 TBSP of balsamic vinegar; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Broil salmon from heat for 4 to 6 minutes per 1/2 inch thickness or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.

2. Meanwhile, in bowl whisk together remaining vinegar and pesto until combined and eat along side of salmon. ( I honestly didn't measure the pesto and balsamic vinegar).

Carly's Salsa

2009-03-03T13:47:00.001-08:00

My sister Carly makes the most delicious salsa. It's a perfect meal for little G because of all the nutrients and she loves it. I usually make half of the recipe at the beginning of the week and then the other half in the middle of the week so it's fresh. Our family noshes on it all week long. If you're making it for a party then definitely make the entire recipe. Enjoy!

2 cans black beans, drained well
2 cans corn, drained well
2-3 large tomatoes
2 large avocados
1 bunch cilantro
1 bunch green onions
1 Good Seasons Italian dressing mix

Chop up the tomatoes, avocados, cilantro and green onions. Mix all together in a bowl with the black beans and corn. Sprinkle Italian dressing mix over everything and then stir to coat.

Chicken and vegetable Quesadillas

2009-03-03T13:35:00.000-08:00

I saw this recipe on the food network the other day and thought it looked mighty scrumptious. I haven't tried it yet though. If you make it let me know what you think.

{Chicken and Vegetable Quesadillas}

2 cooked chicken breast halves
8 (6-8 inch) flour tortillas
1/2 cup chopped red onions
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
1/2 cup sliced roasted red peppers
1/2 cup sliced artichokes
1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for each quesadilla

Coat a large skillet or griddle with cooking spray. Set pan over medium heat to preheat. Using fork or your fingers, pull chicken meat from bone in shreds.
Arrange tortillas on a flat surface. Top 1 side of each tortilla with an equal amount of chicken, mushrooms, red peppers, and artichokes. Top vegetables with shredded cheese. Fold over tortillas, making a half moon. Place quesadillas in prepared pan and cook 3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cheese melts.

Chocolate Snickerdoodle's

2009-02-12T12:47:00.000-08:00

This recipe is from BHG. I made them a few days ago and they are so yummy!

1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp cream of tarter
1 egg
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup flour
2 Tbsp. sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon

In large mixing bowl, beat butter on high speed for 30 seconds. Add the the 1 cup sugar, soda and cream of tarter. Beat in egg and vanilla. Beat in cocoa and flour. Drop by slightly rounded teaspoons 2 i nches apart onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Stir together remaining sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle dough with the sugar-cinnamon mixture. Bake at 375 degrees F for about 9 1/2 mintues. Makes about 30 cookies.

Garlic Cheese Biscuits (Red Lobster)

2009-02-08T18:38:00.001-08:00

I found this recipe in my old ward's cookbook. It said "Red Lobster" and that was all I needed to read. Dave and I were just saying the other day how much we love these things! They were yummy in our kitchen tonight as well and really easy to make!

1 cup Flour
1 Tbsp Sugar
2 tsp Baking powder
1/2 tsp Garlic powder
1/4 tsp Salt

1/3 cup margarine
3/4 cup grated cheese
1/2 cup milk

Cut Margarine into dry ingredients. Add grated cheese. Cover well with flour and stir in milk. Drop onto lightly greased cookie sheet and bake 400 degrees for 15 minutes or until lightly browned. Makes 8 biscuits.

Yummy Salmon

2009-02-08T18:32:00.000-08:00

This is copied from kraft foods.com. I had some Salmon from costco that I wanted to use and found this yummy recipe! WE LOVED IT!

Prep Time: 10 min
Total Time: 35 min

Makes:
4 servings

What You Need
1 medium each: zucchini, yellow squash and red pepper, chopped (about 4 cups total)
4 skinless salmon fillets (1 lb.)
1 can (14-1/2 oz.) diced tomatoes, drained
1/2 cup KRAFT Sun-Dried Tomato Dressing
2-2/3 cups hot cooked brown rice

Make It
PREHEAT oven to 375°F. Combine zucchini, squash and peppers in 13x9-inch baking dish; top with salmon. Mix tomatoes and dressing; spoon over salmon.
BAKE 20 to 25 min. or until salmon flakes easily with fork.
SERVE wth the rice.

Chicken Cashew Salad

2009-01-25T21:41:00.000-08:00

3 cups uncooked bowtie pasta
2 cups uncooked rainbow pasta
8 oz. pineapple tidbits, drained
8 oz. sliced water chestnuts, drained
3/4 cup chopped celery
3/4 cup cashews
2 cups cooked diced chicken (about 2-3 chicken breasts)
11 oz. mandarin oranges, drained
1 cup halved green or red grapes
1 cup dried cranberries
salt and pepper

Dressing:
3/4 cup milk
1 1/2 cups miracle whip
1/4 tsp celery seed
2 Tbsp. sugar

Cook pasta according to package directions. Rinse with cold water until pasta is chilled; drain well. Add drained pineapple and water chestnuts, celery, cashews, cooked chicken, oranges, grapes and dried cranberries. Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat; salt and pepper to taste. Cover and chill 4-6 hours to blend flavors.

For dressing: Whisk together milk, miracle whip, celery seed and sugar. Add more or less milk to create desired consistency.

Italian Crockpot Chicken

2009-01-22T13:15:00.000-08:00

This is just one of those staple dinners that I have in my head to cook on busy days. Our family loves it. You can either cook it in the crockpot or if you didn't have time earlier in the day, just cook it in the oven at 350 degrees for an hour. Tonight I'm serving it with roasted seasoned potatoes and peas. It really goes with just about anything

4 chicken breasts

1 can cream of mushroom or cream of chicken

1 pkg. cream cheese (at room temperature)

1 packet Italian dressing mix

Mix together soup, cream cheese and Italian dressing mix. Place chicken in crockpot and pour soup mixture over chicken. Cook either 8-10 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high.

Stuffed Green Peppers

2009-01-19T20:36:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't love this dish? So yummy and good for you too. This is a recipe I got off of allrecipes.com but adapted to my liking. The following is my version of it.

6 green bell peppers
1 lb. lean ground beef
1 onion, chopped
salt and pepper
14.5 oz can diced tomatoes with lime juice
2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup uncooked rice
1/2 cup water or beef broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 small cans tomato sauce

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds. Cook peppers in boiling water for 5 minutes; drain. Sprinkle salt inside each pepper and set aside.
In a large skillet, saute beef and onions for 5 minutes, or until beef is browned. Drain off fat and season with salt and pepper. Stir in the tomatoes, rice, water and Worcestershire sauce. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender. Remove from heat and stir in cheese.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Stuff each pepper with the beef mixture and place peppers open side up in a baking dish. Pour tomato sauce over tops of peppers. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.

Chicken Parsley Pizza

2009-01-14T18:38:00.000-08:00

Pizza Dough (the best recipe ever)
This dough recipe is from allrecipes.com. It's called Jay's Signature Pizza Crust. My sister has used this for a long time and tonight was my first night making it. It's really tasty.

2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1/2 tsp brown sugar
1 1/2 cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)

Mix the top three ingredients and let it sit for 10 minutes. Then add the following ingredients.

1 tsp salt
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cups all-purpose flour

Let the dough rise until it has doubled. Roll it out, top with toppings and bake at 425 for 15 - 20 minutes.

Chicken Parsley Pizza

Rub olive oil on the unbaked crust. Then spread on your choice of tomato sauce and garlic powder. Add onions, chicken, and cheese. Bake for 20 minutes at 425. Three minutes before the pizza is done, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on it and bake for remaining three minutes.

Yummy Enchiladas

2009-01-10T20:17:00.000-08:00

I was really skeptical to try this recipe about a year ago when I first found it. When I tried it, I absolutely loved it. It has become one of our favorites. Enchiladas are usually so unhealthy but with these ingredients, it is a great healthy meal for your family. It even has homemade sauce....yumm! Make sure you really get all of the water out of the spinach before adding it. I also use the tortillas from Costco that you have to cook instead of the corn tortillas. I have tried it both ways though, and it's great either way. I have also done this as a layer casserole instead of individual enchiladas.

2 Tbsp. olive oil
2 tsp. ground cumin
2 tsp. chili powder
1/4 cup flour
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 can reduced sodium vegetable broth (14 oz.)
Salt and Pepper
3/4 cup water
3 cups grated pepper jack cheese
1 can black beans (15 oz.) rinsed and drained
1 box (10 oz.) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed VERY dry
1 can (15 oz.) corn
1 bunch green onions, chopped
1/4 cup fresh chopped cilantro
16 corn tortillas

Make the sauce by heating oil in a saucepan. Add cumin, chili powder, salt and pepper, tomato paste. Wisk in broth and water then bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened. Set aside.

In a large bowl, combine spinach, black beans, 2 cups of cheese, corn, green onions and cilantro. (I add a little more cumin and chili powder here as well).

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. To soften the corn tortillas, wrap them in damp paper towels and microwave. Top each tortilla with filling and carefully roll up tightly, placing them seam side down in dish. Top with sauce and sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake until hot and bubbly, about 15-20 minutes. Garnish with sour cream and or green onions.

Enjoy!

More Yummy Treats!

2008-12-17T17:38:00.000-08:00

White Chocolate Fudge

Ingredients:

3/4 cup of sweet condensed milk

2 boxes of white chocolate (6 oz each)

1/2 cup almonds (toast them first)

1/2 cup of craisins

Microwave the milk and chocolate for 1-2minutes in 30 second increments, stirring in between, until almost melted. Stir to completely melt. Don’t over-cook!

Add in the almonds and craisins.

Place in a 8x8 pan lined with foil. (Grease the foil and let it hang over the side.)

Refrigerate for 2 hours at least, then pull the foil up to release the fudge and cut into squares. Do not freeze.

Chocolate Pretzels

from Allrecipes.com

Ingredients:

24 circular pretzels

24 milk chocolate candy kisses (or Rolos, if you want caramel)

1 (1.69 oz) package mini candy-coated chocolates (M&Ms)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Place pretzels on baking sheets. Unwrap candy kisses and place one in the center of each pretzel.
3. Place in preheated oven for 1 to 2 minutes, until kisses melt. Remove from oven and place one candy-coated chocolate in the center of each pretzel. Chill in refrigerator until set.

Peppermint Candy Cookies

Peppermint filling:

1/2 c. crushed pink peppermint candy
1 c. powdered sugar, divided
2 TBS (1 oz) cream cheese
1 tsp. milk
1 drop red food color

Dough:

1 c. (2 sticks) butter, softened
1/2 c. powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
2 1/2 c. flour

Directions:

For Dough: Cream butter, powdered sugar and vanilla together. Slowly add flour. Mix thoroughly. Refrigerate dough until a little less sticky. Shape chilled dough into balls using a rounded tsp. 1 ball ata time. Make a deep hole in the center of each ball and fill hole with 1/4 tsp of filling. Seal hole closed so that the filling cannot leak out.

Put on ungreased cookie sheet and bake at 350 for 12-15 minutes until set but not brown. While they are still warm roll in reserved sugar mixture. Let cool and roll again.

For filling: Crush peppermint candy (candy canes work great) in a food processor or something that will make it very finely crushed. Add 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Measure 3 TBS for use in filling and reserve the remainder for rolling cookies. Blend together cream cheese and milk until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the remaining 1/2 c. of powdered sugar, 3 TBS candy mixture and food coloring. Mix well.

Makes 2-3 dozen cookies

6 Layer Bars

2008-12-05T16:06:00.000-08:00

1 1/2 cups crushed corn flakes
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup butterscotch chips
1 cup coconut
1 cup chopped pecans
1 can sweetened condensed milk

In a medium bowl combine corn flakes, sugar and melted butter. Mix well. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9 x 13 pan. Layer chocolate and butterscotch chips, coconut and nuts. Pour sweetened condensed milk over everything. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before cutting.

Honey Mustard Roasted Chicken

2008-11-19T21:20:00.000-08:00

Okay, I am completely lame! I'm so sorry I haven't posted in forever. Here is a great chicken recipe that our family loves. It's yummy-numm-numm!

{Honey Mustard Roasted Chicken}

1 lb. potatoes cut into wedges

2 lbs. chicken cut into thick strips

6 medium carrots, sliced

2 Tbsp. olive oil

1 1/2 Tbsp. honey

3 Tbsp. mustard

1 tsp. rosemary

2 heads garlic

salt and pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. In a shallow pan, toss potatoes and carrots with oil, salt and pepper. Peel the garlic heads and remove the cloves, and nestle the garlic amongst the vegetables and scatter the rosemary on top. Arrange the chicken pieces among the vegetables and bake uncovered for 30 minutes.

Stir together the mustard and honey and spread over chicken. Stir vegetables, return chicken to pan, place back into oven and bake 10-20 minutes, until chicken is cooked and vegetables are tender.

5 Minute Chocolate Mug Cake

2008-11-07T18:52:00.000-08:00

Yes, I received this from a girl in my ward and tried it tonight! Dave said cake isn't suppose to be microwaved, I thought the texture was a bit odd, but with some ice cream (which we didn't have) it is a quick, yummy, cholatey snack when you have a chocolate craving! I personally should NOT have tried it, I might make it more often than I should!

1 coffee (hot chocolate- (: ) mug
4 TBSP flour
4 TBSP Sugar
2 TBSP baking cocoa
1 egg
3 TBSP milk
3 TBSP oil
3 TBSP Choc. Chips (optional - Dave and I wanted more!)
small splash of vanilla

Add dry ingredients to mug mix well
Add the egg and mix thoroughly
Pour in the milk and oil and mix well (make sure to scrape bottom of the mug)
Add the Choc. Chips and vanilla and mix again
Put your mug in microwave and cook for 3 minutes at 1000 watts. The cake will rise over the top of the mug, but don't be alarmed! Allow to cool a little and tip out onto a plate if desired.
EAT! ( this can serve 2 if you want to share)

Butternut Squash Soup with Ravioi

2008-11-07T18:38:00.000-08:00

I saw this recipe and immediately thought of a dish just like it that I had at the "TRIO" restaurant. I wouldn't call it a soup, though I guess you could have it separately as such. I just used the "soup" as sauce...mmmm!

Start to finish: 30 minutes

2 pounds butternut squash
2 14 ounce cans vegetable broth
1/8 tsp ground red pepper
1 TBSP butter or margarine
1 - 9 ounce package refrigerated cheese -filled Ravioli
1 TBSP molasses (WHAT? Who actually HAS molasses in their home... is this something I should have on hand? How long does it keep for these random recipes? I omitted it- which the recipe said you could do..."if you like")

1. Peel Squash. Halve lengthwise. Remove seeds and discard. Cut squash into 3/4 inch pieces.
2. In a large saucepan combine 1/2 cup water, squash, vegetable broth (I only had chicken broth which worked, but I wonder how it would taste with vegetable broth?), and red pepper. Cook, covered, over medium heat for 20 minutes or until squash is tender.
3. Transfer one -fourth of the squash mixture to a blender container or food processor bowl. cover and blend or process until smooth. Repeat with remaining portions, until all of the mixture is blended.
4. Return mixture to the saucepan. Bring just to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered for 5 minute. Add butter; stir until just melted.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the ravioli according to package directions; drain. Ladle hot soup into bowls. Divide cooked ravioli among bowls. Drizzle with molasses.

Sugar Cookies ala Lion House

2008-11-07T18:19:00.000-08:00

These are pretty easy and very yummy! ( I make with a white frosting which I will post on a different post)

3 Cups Granulated Sugar
1 1/4 cups or 2 1/2 squares of butter
4 eggs
4 TBSP Milk
2 tsp Vanilla
6 1/2 cups Flour
1 tsp Salt

Mix wet ingredients together in mixer -mix dry ingredients in separate bowl. Add Together. Cook at 400 degrees for 8- 10 minutes.

Yes, I am back with YUMMY TREATS!

2008-11-07T18:16:00.000-08:00

I have been gone from this blog for a bit, but now I am back with vengence! I know this post will serve and the first of many and you probably won't get to the message until after you have seen all the other ones, but I have had fun cooking lately and the next few( I don't know how many I will get to tonight) recipes will show it. ENJOY!

Pumpkin Fluff

2008-10-30T16:48:00.000-07:00

1 (16 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 (5 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
1 (15 ounce) can solid pack pumpkin
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Mix all together and serve with cinnamon graham crackers. I have also made my own cinnamon chips to go with it to. Either work!

I make the cinnamon chips by cutting up flour tortilla, spraying them with cooking spray, and sprinkling cinnamon/sugar on them. Bake at 350 for about 9 minutes.

Butternut Squash Casserole

2008-10-21T10:43:00.000-07:00

INGREDIENTS
1 butternut squash
1 cup white sugar
1 1/2 cups milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pinch salt
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 eggs
1/4 cup margarine, melted

TOPPING1/2 (16 ounce) package vanilla wafers, crushed1/2 cup margarine, melted1 cup brown sugar

DIRECTIONSPreheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).Put butternut squash in the microwave and cook on high, until soft, 2 to 3 minutes. Cut in half, scoop out seeds and cube. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add squash and cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash.In a 9x13 inch casserole dish combine 3 cups mashed butternut squash, white sugar, milk, vanilla extract, salt, flour, eggs and 1/4 cup melted margarine.Bake in preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until set.In a medium bowl combine crushed vanilla wafers, 1/2 cup melted margarine and brown sugar. Crumble over top of cooked casserole and return to oven to brown.

Turkey Chili

2008-10-13T22:18:00.000-07:00

Yet another thing I LOVE about Autumtime is making soups, stews and chili. I made this tonight and it was a big hit. Super easy and it really hits the spot on these cold days.

1 lb. ground turkey
3/4 cup chopped onion
1 (16 oz.) can pinto beans, undrained
1 (16 oz.) can kidney beans, undrained
1 (28 oz.) can chopped stewed tomatoes
2 1/2 Tbsp. chili powder
2 Tbsp. cumin powder
3/4 cup salsa
1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce
Pepper to taste

In a large pot, brown turkey with chopped onion. Add beans, tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, pepper and salsa. Cook until hot. Top with cheese and sour cream and serve with cornbread or whatever else tickles your fancy. :)

Granola

2008-10-07T16:54:00.000-07:00

I tried this the other night and thought it was SO good. Don't be fooled by it's healthy title. It is totally a dessert but it is a great one!

combine and blend:
1 c. brown sugar
2/3 c. peanut butter
1/2 c. lite corn syrup
1/2 c. butter, melted
2 tsp. vanilla

stir in:
3 c. rolled oats
1/2 c. coconut
1/2 c. sunflower seeds
1/2 c. raisins (you can omit this if you want)
1/3 c. wheat germ (i never have this on hand, so i just add extra oats)
1 c. choc. chips

press mixture evenly into greased 9x13 pan. bake @ 350 for 15-20 min. until light golden color. cool completely before cutting into bars.

On the menu for this week...

2008-09-29T20:28:00.000-07:00

Killer-Diller Enchiladas
Fettuccine with Salmon, Spinach and Red peppers
Saucy Baked Pork Chops with potatoes and steamed broccoli
Salmon pesto and rice

I thought I'd do something a little bit different on this post. Sometimes we need a few ideas when planning out the weeks menu so I thought I'd share mine. What are you ladies cookin' up this week?

Roasted Red Pepper Lasagna

2008-09-19T13:57:00.001-07:00

If you like roasted red peppers, you will love this recipe. I made it for dinner last night and it was a hit. It was super quick to make and tasted de-lish. If you want to cut down on the fat substitute low-fat cottage cheese for the ricotta.

1 jar Prego spaghetti sauce (I used chunky vegetable)
9 no-boil lasagna noodles
15 oz. ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella
1 Tbsp. red wine
1/2 cup finely shredded parmesan
1 1/2 cups roasted red peppers, drained well and cut into strips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly coat a 9 x 13 baking dish with cooking spray. Spoon about 1/2 cup of sauce over bottom of dish. Top with 3 lasagna noodles. In a small bowl stir together the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of the mozarella and the red wine. Spoon half the mixture over the noodles in the dish. Sprinkle with 2 Tbsp. parmesan. Top with half of the red pepper strips. Spoon half of the remaining sauce on the pepper layer.

Top with 3 more noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, and remaining peppers. Add 3 more noodles and the remaining sauce. Top with some mozarella and parmesan. Cover with foil. Bake for 50 minutes. Let stand, covered, for 20 minutes before serving so the lasagna can set.

My Favorite Fruit Salad Ever!

2008-09-15T18:21:00.000-07:00

1 can chunk pineapple
1 can mandarin oranges
1 can fruit cocktail
3 bananas (sliced)

1 pkg instant vanilla pudding
1 9oz Cool Whip

Mix Cool Whip and pudding until well-blended. Drain chilled fruit extra well in a strainer. Stir fruit into pudding mixture and refrigerate until ready to serve. Just before serving slice bananas and add to the salad. To make it even better you can add Fudge-striped cookies crumbled up....makes it more like a dessert!

Sorry I haven't posted anything until now...I vow to do better!

Yvonne's Cream Cheese Dip

2008-09-12T22:45:00.000-07:00

Since it's football season I thought I'd post one of my favorite dips. This recipe came from one of Taylor's mom's painting buddies. It is sooooooo yummy!

2 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup finely chopped pecans
1/4 cup finely chopped green pepper
2 Tbsp. very finely chopped white onion
1 (8 oz.) can of crushed pineapple drained (drain and then squeeze the liquid out of it by hand to get it nice and dry)
1/2 tsp. Lawry's Seasoning Salt

Combine the ingredients, cover and refrigerate until you are ready to use it. Spread on Wheat Thins or serve with veggies.

Pumpkin Soup

2008-09-04T11:57:00.000-07:00

1 onion chopped
3 tbsp butter
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups pumpkin
1 cup milk
2 tbsp flour
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/8 tsp ground ginger
1/8 tsp black pepper

Saute the chopped onion in the butter. Add 2 cups chicken broth and let simmer for 15 minutes. Puree in blender and place back in pot. To the onion/broth mixture add the pumpkin, 2 cups of chicken broth, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and black pepper. Let simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes. Mix the flour into the milk so that there are no clumps. Add the milk mixture into the soup after it is done simmering (don't let the soup boil).

I made homemade wheat croutons and added it to the soup, very tasty.

Garden Tomato Soup

2008-09-02T19:50:00.000-07:00

I have tons of tomatoes growing in my garden so it was nice to be able to use some of them! This is really yummy. As Spencer said at dinner tonight..."I am never eating Campbells tomato soup again!"

4 cups chopped tomatoes
2 cups chicken broth
1 onion chopped
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt

In a large pot bring to a boil tomatoes, chicken broth, onion, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Let boil for 20 minutes. Puree tomato mixture in blender and set aside. In the same pot melt butter and then add flour to make a roux. Once roux is a light brown add tomato mixture. Wisk together to make sure there are no lumps. Add salt and sugar and serve.

Eggplant Parmesan

2008-08-27T21:24:00.000-07:00

We received 2 eggplants from the food co-op last Saturday so what better to use them for than Eggplant Parmesan? I pulled this recipe off of allrecipes.com but I altered it slightly. It turned out much better than I anticipated. Even if your not an eggplant fan, give it a try. You might like it!

2 eggplant, thinly sliced (1/4" - 1/2" thick)
2 eggs beaten
2 2/3 cup italian bread crumbs (I just used plain and added some italian seasoning)
4 cups spaghetti sauce
8 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese
1/3 + 1/4 cup grated parmesan
1/4 tsp. dried basil

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place bread crumbs and 1/4 cup parmesan in a gallon size plastic bag. Dip eggplant in egg and then place in the bag. Once you have coated all the eggplant with egg toss them all together in the ziploc bag. (This makes for easy cleanup.) Place on a baking sheet lined with foil and cook for 7 minutes. Turn slices over and bake for an additional 7 minutes.

Cover bottom of 9 x 13" pan with spaghetti sauce, just enough to cover. Place eggplant slices on top of sauce then top with mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese. Bake in oven for 35 minutes. Serve on top of angel hair pasta.

(The original recipe calls for you to layer the eggplant on top of each other, alternating with sauce and cheese. I didn't think that was necessary so I just layered sauce, eggplant, sauce, cheese. I froze the other half of the breaded eggplant for a later time.)

Pork of Love

2008-08-23T08:04:00.000-07:00

After not wanting to BBQ Pork, but needing dinner fast, I found this recipe in the Favorite Brand Name All- new Best-Loved Recipes of all Time cookbook! Dave and I both LOVED it! I don't usually like hot fruit, like in pies, but I acutally LOVED the apples! Here it is...

4 Pork chops, 1/2 inch thick (ours might have been thicker and they were fine)

1 TBSP Oil (I used olive oil)

2 medium Apples Cored and Cut in eight wedges (I used our apple slicer and it was perfect)

1 Cup Apple Juice

2 cups Cornbread Stuffing ( I didn't know if I should cook it before adding or not, so I did... when you try it don't, just add the dry stuffing in at the end. --Soggy stuffing was okay, but could have been better.)

1/4 cup chopped Pecans ( I didn't add these, but I am sure it would be good)

SPRINKLE chops with salt and pepper. Heat oil in large skillet on medium-high heat. Add chops and apples; cook until chops are browned on both sides.

STIR in apple juice. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 8 minutes or until chops are cooked through. Remove chops from skillet.

STIR stuffing mix and pecans into skillet. Return chops to skillet; cover. Remove from heat. Let stand for 5 minutes.

PREP TIME: 10 minutes
COOK TIME: 20 minutes

(Makes 4 servings)

Zucchini Citris Bread

2008-08-20T19:54:00.000-07:00

I found this recipe the other day on allrecipes.com and it was amazing. The little touch of lemon was so tastey in the bread. I am posting this mostly for my own reference so I can come back and find it when I need it more quickly!!

2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 eggs
1 cup white sugar
2/3 cup vegetable oil
1 1/3 cups grated zucchini
3/4 teaspoon lemon extract

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. Sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt and cinnamon.
In a large bowl, beat eggs with sugar for 10 minutes. Gradually add oil and beat for two more minutes. Mix in lemon extract and zucchini. Fold in flour mixture until evenly moistened; do not overmix. Pour batter into prepared pan.
Bake in preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into center of the loaf comes out clean.

Kinnersley's Famous Bean Dip

2008-08-03T14:04:00.000-07:00

Okay I will try to start to post here more often. Here is one of my favorite recipes.... I usually just throw things in, taste and add what I think in needs, so these sizes are approximate, so start with a little less and then see how you like it.

Bean Dip

1 Small can of Refried Beans (Rosarita Refried are the best, but you can get any kind and add more spices)

2 TBSP of brown sugar ( I like more to make it sweeter, my mom does left)

2 TBSP of Ketchup

1 to 1.5 Tsp of minced onion (or a couple of shakes of onion salt)

1 cup of cheese

Melt together in pan on Medium heat

Serve with tortillia chips, tortillias and cheese or 7 layer dip (see below)

7 layer dip

1st layer - Bean Dip

2nd layer - Sour cream

3rd layer - Gaucamole made from 2 avacados and a packet of Gauc mix

4th layer- Shredded cheese

5th layer - Olives and diced tomatoes

Bahama-Mama Pork Chop Dinner

2008-07-31T20:57:00.000-07:00

I found this recipe on allrecipes.com but I changed it up a bit. We had it for dinner tonight and it was so yummy! Here is the recipe with my alterations:

1 large can pineapple chunks, reserve juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 cup chili sauce
1/3 cup craisins
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
4 pork chops, cubed
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 small green peppers chopped
1/2 of large red onion chopped

In a medium bowl, blend reserved pineapple juice with cornstarch; stir in pineapple, chili sauce, craisins, brown sugar and cinnamon and set aside.

In large skillet lightly brown pork chop cubes in oil and drain. Add green pepper and red onion and saute until onion has just barely started to clear. Pour pineapple mixture over chops. Cover and simmer 15 minutes or until pork is cooked throughout.

Serve over hot brown rice.

Make about 6 servings. Hope you girls like it!

Pancakes Please!

2008-07-21T16:42:00.000-07:00

1 1/2 cups of flour
3 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
1 1/3 milk
1 egg
3 tbsp melted butter
1 tsp vanilla
(occasionally I add some pumpkin pie spice (1 to 2 tsp))

Mix dry ingredients first and then add the wet ingredients. Makes about 16-20 pancakes. Really yummy!

Souvlaki

2008-07-13T22:04:00.000-07:00

We made this for dinner the other night and it was de-lish! It was so simple. I got it off of allrecipes.com but changed it up a little. Here is the recipe as I made it here...

Juice of 1 whole lemon

2 Tbsp. olive oil

2 Tbsp. soy sauce

1/2 tsp. dried oregano

2 cloves garlic, crushed

2 lbs. pork tenderloin, cut into 1" cubes

1 medium onion, cut into 1" pieces

1 red pepper, cut into 1" pieces

1 yellow pepper, cut into 1" pieces

skewers

In a large glass bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, soy sauce, oregano and garlic. Add pork, onions, and peppers and stir to coat. Cover, and refrigerate for 2 hours.

Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread pork, peppers and onions onto skewers. Grill for about 15-17 minutes or to desired doneness, turning skewers frequently.

Enjoy!

Dinner tonight

2008-07-09T22:35:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd just post what I made for dinner tonight. I just made my own meatloaf and it turned out so good I thought I'd share my recipe with you girls. The other sides I cooked were not created by me but they are fabulous recipes as well. I also bought a ton of fresh fruit yesterday so I decided to whip up a fruit cobbler. So good!

Meatloaf- a la Melanie

1 and 1/2 lbs. ground beef
1 and 1/2 cups dry bread crumbs
1 whole egg and 1 egg white
1 and 1/2 tablespoon's Worcestershire sauce
1 medium onion, diced
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce

Combine all ingredients, except tomato sauce, using your hands to make sure it gets mixed together really well. Press into a loaf pan and spread tomato sauce on top. Cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour and 25 minutes.

Crispy Potato Wedges

1 potato per person
olive oil
"Season All" seasoning or any other blended seasoning you have

Peel potatoes and cut into halves three times (ending with about 8 slices per potato). Arrange slices on baking sheet and lightly brush each slice with olive oil. Lightly dust all potatoes with seasoning. Bake for 45-55 minutes at 425 degrees. Watch for the edges of the potatoes to start browning and getting crispy.

Perfect Roasted Carrots

4 large carrots
Kosher Salt
freshly ground pepper
olive oil

Peel carrots and cut in 1/2 thick diagonal wedges. Toss together with olive oil. Place on baking sheet and sprinkle with Kosher salt and pepper to your taste.

Easy Batter Fruit Cobbler

2 tablespoons butter
3/4 cup flour
3/4 cup sugar
1 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
3/4 cup milk
2 cups of fresh fruit (I used blueberries and strawberries)
1 Tbsp. sugar

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Put butter in an 8" square pan; set in oven to melt. When butter has melted, remove pan from oven. Whisk flour, 3/4 cup sugar, baking powder and salt in small bowl. Add milk; whisk to form a smooth batter. Pour batter into pan, then scatter fruit over batter. Sprinkle with remaining 1 Tbsp. of sugar. Bake until batter browns and fruit bubbles, about 50-55 minutes. Serve warm or at room temp. with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Almond Joy Cake

2008-07-07T20:51:00.000-07:00

This may be the best cake I have ever tasted. It is soooo divine. The recipe calls for whole almonds but I used sliced almonds and it was fabulous. I also only used a tablespoon of butter instead of 1/4 cup. I would recommend some vanilla ice cream or a large glass of ice cold milk to accompany it. Enjoy!

1 box chocolate cake mix
1 and 1/2 cups evaporated milk
1 cup sugar
25 large marshmallows
1 (14 oz.) bag shredded coconut
1/4 cup butter
1 (12 oz.) bag chocolate chips
1 cup toasted almonds

Bake the cake mix according to box directions and poke holes in it with the end of a large wooden spoon. In a large saucepan, combine 1 cup evaporated milk and sugar. Bring to a boil and stir in marshmallows until melted. Add coconut and pour mixture over cake while both are hot.

Melt together remaining evaporated milk (1/2 cup), butter and chocolate chips. Stir until melted and then add the almonds. Spread on top of cake.

The Community CO-OP of Utah

2008-07-01T15:35:00.001-07:00

This is the food co-op we get food from every month. I know some of you wanted the info so here it is. First, here is the web address www.foodco-op.org. The food comes from here in Utah and its amazing how much you get for paying so little. You know in advance the kind of meat you are getting but not the fruits and veggies. We have been buying this food for about a year and have been impressed with what we have gotten. You only get it once a month and you have to go pick it during certain times on the last Saturday of the month (usually). You need to pay a one time membership fee of $5 and then you can order every month fee free. The best part about it is that once your order the standard share, you can add more onto your order. With food prices going up it is so nice to be able to buy groceries for such a small amount!

For instance I paid $26.75 and here is what I got...

1 loaf of wheat bread
1 bag of lentils
1 lb groudn beef
4 pork chops
4 chicken breasts
4 beef steaks
3 apples
4 peaches
4 plums
1 eggplant
3 corn
2 avacodos
1 bunch of radishes
1 bag of carrots
5 Colosimo's brauts
1 package of bacon

Quick and Easy Salsa

2008-07-01T09:58:00.000-07:00

2 cans of tomatoes
1 can of Rotel
1 can of jalapenos (sometimes I only use 1/2 of the can)
cilantro (I usually use 1/2 a bunch)
1 red or yellow onion chopped
green onion
garlic salt

Combine tomatoes, Rotel, and jalapenos and blend. Add in onion and cilantro, blend until desired consistency. Add garlic salt to taste and garnish with green onions.

I have used this to marinade meat in or cook chicken in for tacos. I really like how easy it is and it tastes a lot better then store bought salsa.

5-Minute Southwestern Salad

2008-06-27T10:50:00.000-07:00

1 head of romaine lettuce
1 can black beans, drained
1 can corn, drained
1 cup salsa
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1 cup cheddar cheese
crushed tortilla chips

Chop up lettuce and place in bowl. Toss with remaining ingredients and serve.

We had this for dinner last night. I found this recipe a few months ago and it has been a regular in our house ever since. It is super fast and tastes really yummy. I would recommend putting the chips on each individual serving if you are going to have any leftovers because after an hour or two the chips get soggy if mixed in with the salad.

Strawberry Whipped Sensation

2008-06-26T19:23:00.000-07:00

I got this recipe out of a Kraft recipe book I got in the mail. It's pretty yummy but after making it I decided to change a few things. Here is the recipe from the book:

Strawberry Whipped Sensation

4 cups fresh strawberries, divided
1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 tub (8 oz.) cool whip, thawed
8 oreo's

Shape foil onto outside of a large loaf pan. Line inside of pan with shaped foil, with ends extending over sides of pan.

Mash 2 cups of the strawberries in large bowl. Stir in condensed milk and juice.

Stir 2 cups of whipped topping into strawberry mixture. Pour into prepared pan.

Finely chop oreo cookies and gently press into whipped topping mixture. Cover with the ends of foil and freeze for 6 hours or until firm.

Invert dessert onto serving plate when ready to serve. Spread remaining whipped topping onto top and sides of dessert.

Slice remaining 2 cups strawberries; arrange on dessert.

This dessert is very refreshing and perfect for a hot summer night. But I thought the oreos and strawberries tasted a little wierd together. Next time I'm going to use vanilla wafers and strawberries. Or oreos mixed in the whipped topping instead of strawberries. You can pretty much use anything you want. Enjoy!

Leslie's Banana Bread Recipe

2008-06-05T12:18:00.000-07:00

I was in the process of making banana bread today when I realized I didn't have enough sugar. Aubrey was napping so I improvised and substituted vanilla instant pudding for some of the sugar. Wow, this bread tastes really good. Enjoy!

Leslie's Banana Bread Recipe

3 ripe bananas
2 eggs
1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup sugar
1 small package of instant vanilla pudding
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp baking soda
2 cups flour

In a mixing bowl, beat bananas, vanilla instant pudding, eggs, and sugar until smooth. Add the shortening and mix well. Add flour, salt, and baking soda.

Muffins... cook at 325 degrees for about 25 to 30 minutes
loaf pan...cook at 300 degrees for about 50 minutes to an hour

Ginger Almond Chicken and Asian Salad

2008-04-14T18:26:00.000-07:00

I love Asian Chicken Salad so tonight I decided to make it into a meal. Instead of adding the chicken to the salad, I made the chicken breast with ginger and almond and added it onto the salad.

Asian Salad
1 package (16 oz) of coleslaw mix
1 package of ramen noodles (crushed)
1/2 cup sliced green onion
2 tbsp sesame seeds
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 tsp ground ginger
2 tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1 chicken flavor ramen noodle seasoning
1/2 package of silvered almonds
Mix together green onions, sesame seeds, vinegar, oil, sugar, salt, seasoning, and almonds. Pour over coleslaw mix and crushed ramen noodles. Let sit in refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
Ginger Almond Chicken
1 beaten egg
1/2 cup flour
1/2 package of silvered almonds
2 tsp ground ginger
2-3 chicken breasts cut in half or quartered
Dip chicken pieces in flour mixture (flour and ginger), then into the egg, followed by the crushed almonds. Cook chicken in skillet for 4 minutes on each side and then put into the oven at 350 degrees for 25 minutes.

Best frosting ever

2008-03-23T21:17:00.000-07:00

For Easter I made a recipe that I saw on tv this week. I used an angel food cake but I am sure it would be super good on any white or yellow cake.

Key Lime Frosting

1 can (14 oz) sweet and condensed milk
1/3 cup fresh lime juice
2 tsp lime zest
1 container of Cool Whip (I used the light stuff and it was still so good)

Mix the milk, lime juice, and zest together and then add the container of Cool Whip.

I am going to try this recipe but I am going to just lemon juice and zest on put them on lemon cupcakes...doesn't that sound so good!

My Favorite Cookie Recipe

2008-03-19T17:58:00.000-07:00

This is my absolute favorite recipe ever. It actually started as a chocolate chip cookie recipe that I found online and then my neighbor and I got talking and we decided to change it a little.

2 1/4 cups flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 cup butter (you can put a little less in if you would like)
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup white sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla

1 package of ANY flavor instant pudding
chocolate chips, crasins, nuts, or whatever goes with the pudding you choose

Cream together butter and the sugars. Mix in the INSTANT pudding mix. Add eggs and vanilla. Mix in flour and baking soda. Add whatever mix in you chose (chocolate chips, crasins, etc)

Bake for 10-11 minutes at 350 degrees.

The classic recipe is made with vanilla instant pudding and chocolate chips. Some of my favorite combinations are banana pudding/chocolate chips, white chocolate pudding/chocolates chips AND dried cherries, and thanks to my friend Jenny butterscotch and butterscotch chips. WOW!

Meatloaf -OH MY!

2008-03-12T21:21:00.000-07:00

So this recipe isn't mine, it comes from the greatest website ever, allrecipes.com. I made it tonight and I am not usually a fan of meatloaf but this meatloaf creates its own sauce when it is done!

1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup ketchup
1 1/2 lbs ground beef
3/4 cup milk
2 eggs
1 1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground pepper
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/4 tsp ginger (DON"T FORGET THIS INGREDIENT)
3/4 cup crushed saltine cracker crumbs

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a 9 by 5 loaf pan (lightly greased) press the brown sugar in the bottom of the pan. On top of that place the ketchup. Then in a mixing bowl combine the rest of the ingredients and press into loaf pan. Bake for 1 hour.

I am never making meatloaf like I used to! Plus, the saltine crackers instead of bread crumbs in genius! Happy eating...

Celery Meatballs with Veggie Pasta

2008-03-10T16:04:00.000-07:00

Celery Meatballs
1 lb hamburger
1 egg
1/2 can of cream of celery soup
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
italian seasoning
garlic powder

Mix together egg, cream of celery soup, bread crumbs, and seasoning. Crumble in hamburger. Mix in chopped onion. Form into meatballs and bake at 350 for 30-35 mintues.

Pasta Sauce
1 can italian seasoned chopped tomatoes
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/2 can of cream of celery soup
1/2 cup of milk
cut up vegetables (I used green peppers and spinach)

Combine all the pasta sauce ingredients in a saucepan until hot. Serve with meatballs over pasta. If you boil the pasta in chicken broth (or any kind of broth) it makes it taste better.

Spinach Chicken

2008-03-05T12:27:00.000-08:00

I had some leftover spinach in the fridge last night, so I cooked it up and made this...

SPINACH CHICKEN

3 cups spinach
1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
1 cup milk
1 tsp garlic powder
4 chicken breasts
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tbsp italian seasoning

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix together parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and italian seasoning together. Coat chicken breasts with the mixture. Place chicken breasts in a baking dish.

In a saucepan cook the spinach and then drain the water. Add to the cooked spinach the cream of chicken soup, milk, and the remainder of the parmesan mixture. Heat until the sauce is slightly warm. Poor over chicken and bake for 1 hour.

Serve chicken over rice or pasta.